Irish Veterinary Journal最新文献

Veterinary education has long relied on lecture-based methods and conventional case-based learning, approaches that may not fully cultivate the critical and systems thinking skills required in today's complex clinical environment. In response, we developed an innovative digital tool that integrates interactive gaming, narrative-driven expression, and structured debriefing into a cohesive simulation framework. Using backyard poultry management-a case selected for its regulatory and ethical complexities in European practice-as our testbed, the simulation engages students through a point-and-click game focused on laying hens. The tool presents a series of interactive decision points and intentional "traps" that prompt reflective discussion during post-game debriefing sessions.A qualitative approach was employed to analyze data collected from focus group discussions, written group documents, and facilitator reflections during simulation sessions with veterinary students. Our thematic analysis identified three primary themes: (1) a multifactorial understanding of poultry health, (2) diverse perceptions of the veterinarian's role in managing complex challenges, and (3) the simulation as an effective reflective trigger for enhancing clinical reasoning. These findings indicate that the simulation not only promotes active learning and systems thinking but also bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world clinical decision-making by linking clinical observations with broader regulatory, economic, and social considerations.Despite limitations such as reliance on self-reported data and the absence of a control group, our study demonstrates that a facilitation-driven simulation framework can transform case-based learning into a dynamic, reflective inquiry process. This approach offers a promising alternative for enhancing educational outcomes in veterinary education and lays the groundwork for future research incorporating objective measures of competence and further refinements to balance structured guidance with learner autonomy.

In the Republic of Ireland, pregnant dry dairy cows are typically housed and fed pasture silage. However, its mineral concentrations vary greatly, and dietary mineral recommendations are based on other main feedstuffs and cow types. This study, which is part of a larger project, aims to describe pasture silage mineral composition, comparing it to estimated Irish dry cow requirements, and describe mineral feeding practices. Macrominerals and trace minerals were determined for pasture silage samples from 27 commercial farms. Farmers completed a feeding management questionnaire, and mineral requirements for each farm were calculated for pregnant dry cows at 270 d of gestation, with mean estimated live weight of 557 kg and dry matter (DM) intake of 9.2 kg/d. Mineral concentrations in pasture silage exceeded the estimated dietary requirements for all macrominerals and some trace minerals (samples exceeding; Ca, Cl, K, Mg, Na, P, S, and Fe: 100.0%, Mn: 88.9%, and Co: 55.6%), while it didn't meet them for some trace minerals (samples not meeting; Cu, I and Se: 100.0%, and Zn: 51.9%). Calculated pasture silage dietary cation-anion difference ranged from 18 to 49 mEq/100 g DM. All farms supplemented minerals; 91.6% provided a multi-mineral product (types/brands varied), which was mostly top-dressed over pasture silage (77.8% of farms) once a day (51.9% of farms). Only 26.0% of farms tested pasture silage for mineral composition, the importance of which should be promoted. Our estimated requirements and findings should be considered along with recommendations for disease prevention for dry cow mineral feeding optimization.

Infectious bovine rhinotracheitis (IBR), caused by bovine herpesvirus-1 (BoHV-1), is a highly contagious disease with significant economic impacts on the cattle industry. It can also lead to respiratory distress, reproductive losses and compromised animal welfare, and thus represents a key target for control. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and identify risk factors associated with BoHV-1 infection in Irish beef herds. Conducted under the National Beef Welfare Scheme (NBWS), the study involved testing 10,659 beef breeding herds, representing approximately 20% of the national beef herd population. A total of 189,404 animals were tested. Using a 'snapshot' testing strategy herd-level BoHV-1 status was determined based on the presence of antibodies to the gE glycoprotein in up to 20 randomly selected animals, preferably over 9 months of age to exclude maternally derived antibodies. Vaccination histories were not available for participating herds. Results indicated an animal-level apparent prevalence of 11.4% and a herd-level apparent prevalence based on positive snapshots of 48.8% (defined as herds with ≥ 1 positive animal). Larger herds and high rates of animal in-moves per capita (here, > 17% of herd replaced by purchases in the past year) were identified as significant risk factors for recent (within the last three years) BoHV-1 circulation. Previous studies had indicated a herd-level prevalence in Ireland of up to 80%. The lower prevalence estimates identified in this study may reflect improved biosecurity and vaccination uptake in recent years. The findings from this survey, although showing that BoHV-1 is still endemic in Irish beef herds, provide updated prevalence figures which are considerably lower, indicating that a higher number of farms would be in a position to achieve freedom from BoHV-1 in a relatively short period. These results offer essential epidemiological insights to inform the design and implementation of a national BoHV-1 control programme in Ireland.

Superficial digital flexor (SDF) tendonitis is a major cause of lameness and early retirement in equine athletes. Research has shifted the understanding of tendonitis from being only a degenerative condition to recognizing inflammation as a central and dynamic factor in both its development and repair. While regenerative therapies such as platelet-rich plasma and mesenchymal stem cells have demonstrated promising benefits, their clinical efficacy remains inconsistent, and no single gold-standard protocol has yet emerged. This review highlights the inflammatory concept of equine tendonitis, with a focus on cellular and molecular mechanisms behind tenogenesis. In addition, we explore the emerging evidence supporting regenerative biologic interventions in modulating inflammation and promoting tenogenesis. With ongoing advances in the understanding of tendon pathobiology, this review highlights inflammation as a central determinant of tendon healing outcomes and outlines promising therapeutic avenues, such as autologous conditioned serum, injectable platelet-rich fibrin, and mesenchymal stem cells-derived exosomes, for SDF tendonitis in equine.

Using viral metagenomics, we identified a novel torovirus, GToV/SWUN/SC, in diarrheal goat fecal samples with a genome length of 28,457 nt. This strain shares 96.73-96.79% nucleotide identity with Antelope torovirus (AToV) but only 88.43% with the GToV/SZ strain. Phylogenetic analysis revealed a close evolutionary relationship between GToV/SWUN/SC and AToV. Structural analysis showed three distinct structural variations in the HE protein and multiple amino acid mutations in the S gene, which may influence host adaptation. RT-PCR detected a 35.9% (240/669) positivity rate, indicating widespread circulation of GToV in Sichuan, Chongqing, and Yunnan. This study enhances the understanding of torovirus epidemiology and evolution, providing a theoretical basis for further research on viral diversity.

Background: Sex chromosome abnormalities in cattle are rare, and manifestations of genital anomalies due to such abnormalities are even less frequently reported. Among these, XXX/XY chimerism is particularly uncommon. This report presents a Japanese black calf with complex urogenital malformations linked to XXX/XY chimerism, contributing valuable insights into bovine sex determination and reproductive development.

Case presentation: A Japanese black calf of phenotypic indeterminate sex, born co-twin to a phenotypically normal male, presented with hypospadias-like features and ambiguous genitalia. Clinical examination revealed a scrotum-like structure without palpable testes or vulva. An hCG stimulation test indicated a lack of functional testicular tissue. Chromosomal analysis of leukocytes revealed the presence of two distinct cells with 60, XY and 61, XXX, revealing XXX/XY chimerism. The ratio of male to trisomic cells was 63:37 (95% confidence intervals; XY: 54-72%, XXX: 28-46%) in the affected calf. Necropsy revealed both male (testis, epididymis, ductus deferens) and female (uterus-like) reproductive structures, with uterus-like organs embedded within the perineal tissue. Histological and immunohistochemical analyses confirmed the presence of the uterine remnant and revealed Sertoli cell-only testicular tissue, indicating spermatogenic failure. PCR-based sex determination performed on multiple tissues revealed three distinct genotypic patterns, with evidence of tissue-specific variation in the distribution of the X and Y chromosomes. Some tissues lacked detectable Y-linked AMEL-Y, despite the presence of SRY, suggesting a complex chimeric constitution with potential deletion of the AMEL-Y region in some XY cell populations.

Conclusions: This case highlights a rare instance of systemic XXX/XY chimerism associated with ambiguous genitalia and mixed internal reproductive structures, which is distinct from typical freemartinism or isolated X-trisomy syndromes. The differential chromosomal mosaicism across tissues likely influences the phenotypic outcome. These findings emphasize the complexity and plasticity of bovine sex differentiation, particularly in twin pregnancies, and underscore the importance of integrating clinical, cytogenetic, and molecular diagnostics to accurately identify and manage congenital reproductive anomalies in livestock.

Background: Arthrodesis is a critical procedure for restoring stability and relieving pain in severely damaged joints. Successful bone fusion remains a significant challenge, often necessitating the use of biomaterials to enhance healing. Collagen and chitosan, two natural polymers with established biocompatibility and osteoconductive properties, have shown promise in regenerative medicine applications. The present study aimed to evaluate the synergistic effect of a collagen-chitosan composite on bone fusion of the antebrachiocarpal joint in a rabbit model. Multislice CT morphometrical analysis was utilized to assess bone healing and fusion, offering detailed insights into the material's efficacy in promoting joint stabilization and bone regeneration.

Materials and methods: Twelve healthy male New Zealand White rabbits (4.0 ± 0.3 months old) with a mean body weight of 2.5 ± 0.5 kg were used. These animals underwent curettage of the articular cartilage down to the subchondral bone. The rabbits were then randomly assigned into two groups: a control group (C), in which no composite was applied, and a treatment group, in which collagen-chitosan scaffolds were utilized (Col/Cs). Joint fusion was postoperatively assessed using a multislice detector computed tomography (MSCT).

Result: (MSCT) revealed progressive enhancements in the collagen-chitosan (Col/Cs) group over 12 weeks. Radial cortical thickness and bone mineral density (BMD) were significantly higher at week 12 in the Col/Cs group (1.31 ± 0.10 mm vs. 1.03 ± 0.18 mm; p = 0.0086, and ~ 760 HU vs. ~510 HU; p = 0.0055, respectively). Intra-articular mineral density (IATMD) increased markedly at week 1 (p < 0.0001), decreased at week 6 (p < 0.0001), and rose again by week 12 (p < 0.0001), while the control group showed a gradual, non-significant increase. Joint space width decreased significantly in the Col/Cs group by week 6 (~ 0.6 mm vs. ~0.9 mm; p = 0.0034) and remained lower at week 12 (~ 0.55 mm vs. ~0.7 mm; p = 0.0062). Fusion ratio reached ~ 65% in the Col/Cs group compared to ~ 35% in controls (p < 0.0001). CBMD decreased in both groups by week 1 postoperatively but recovered more effectively in the Col/Cs group. By week 12, CBMD was significantly higher in the Col/Cs group (~ 1000 HU) than in controls (~ 950 HU; P < 0.0006). (UBMD) was initially similar (~ 780 HU), but by week 1, the Col/Cs group maintained higher values (~ 760 HU vs. ~620 HU; p < 0.0001), and this inclination continued through week 12 (~ 750 HU vs. ~680 HU; p = 0.001).

Conclusion: The results of the present study indicate that the collagen-chitosan composite enhances bone fusion and joint stability in a rabbit model of antebrachiocarpal arthrodesis, demonstrating both innovation and potential clinical applicability.

Background: Feral pigeons are a synanthropic species commonly found in cities worldwide. They are known to carry zoonotic pathogens, including Escherichia coli, and have long raised concerns about environmental contamination and public health risks.

Objectives: The aim of the study was to phylogenetically classify, identify selected virulence genes and determine the phenotypic antimicrobial susceptibility profiles of E. coli isolated from pigeon faeces in urban agglomeration.

Methodology: A total of 120 fresh faecal samples were collected from feral pigeons in urban areas. Groups of 4 samples from each location were tested in a total of 30 pools. A total of 97 faecal E. coli isolates were screened for enteropathogenic E. coli (EPEC) and Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) strain genes and thirteen selected virulence factors associated with pathogenic function and activity. Resistance patterns were determined by the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method for twenty antibiotics.

Result: The most common phylogenetic group was group D (70/97, 72.2%), followed by group A (15/97, 15.5%), B1 (7/97, 7.2%) and B2 (3/97, 3.1%). EPEC and STEC were found in 5.2% and 22.7% isolates, respectively. The obtained results showed katP, lpfA_O157/OI-141, tir, iha and lpfA_O157/OI-154 genes in eaeA-positive and stx-positive isolates, mainly from phylogroups D and B2. The isolated E. coli strains were resistant to at least one antibiotic in 16.5%, and 2.1% were recognised as multidrug-resistant (MDR).

Conclusions: The results of this study confirm that pigeons in the urban environment are carriers of potentially pathogenic strains of E. coli, including MDR strains. Twelve patterns of virulence genes were identified among E. coli strains, with a great predominance of the single gene stx₁ encoding Shiga toxin 1. The highest resistance was observed for imipenem (IMP), tetracycline (TE) and doxycycline (DO), respectively, and these antibiotics were also involved in most of the observed resistance patterns. The obtained results justify the implementation of preventive measures in cities and the introduction of surveillance programs for synanthropic pigeon populations to protect both the urban environment and public health.

Background: Acute pain management and the efficacy of analgesic therapies are essential in orthopedic surgery on the distal extremities of dogs' forelimbs. This is due to the manipulation of both soft and orthopedic tissues. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the antinociceptive, akinesia, cardiovascular, and plasma-level effects of adding atracurium to intravenous regional anesthesia (IVRA) with lidocaine in dogs.

Methods: Fifty male Mongrel dogs weighing 15 ± 5 kg and aged 2.5 ± 0.6 years were premedicated with 0.045 mg/kg of atropine sulfate and 0.05 mg/kg of acepromazine. While under general anaesthesia, the dogs were randomly allocated into two IVRA groups (n = 25/group): the lidocaine group (LG; 3 mg/kg) and the atracurium (0.3 mg/kg) combined with the lidocaine (3 mg/kg) group (LAG). Following IVRA injections, the toe pinch response and nerve stimulation test were performed, with the contralateral limb serving as its control limb. The mean blood pressure (MAP), pulse rate (PR), respiratory rate (RR), end-tidal carbon dioxide level (EtCO₂), rectal temperature, echocardiographic indices, and plasma lidocaine concentrations were measured.

Results: At 25, 35, 45, and 55 min post-induction, the LAG exhibited a significantly lower (P ≤ 0.01) nociception limb withdrawal reflex score indicated by an absence of the limb withdrawal reflex (score 1) than the LG, which showed a mild limb trembling (score 2). Moreover, at 30, 40, 50, and 60 min post-induction, the LAG had an absence of the carpus twitch (score 1) with a significantly deeper degree of nerve block (P ≤ 0.01) compared to the LG. There were no significant differences in the physiological parameters between groups during anesthesia time. Meanwhile, the MAP, PR, and RR were significantly higher (P ≤ 0.05) in the LG than in the LAG post-nociception stimuli and during the recovery period. After tourniquet removal, hypersalivation and muscle tremors were observed in four dogs in the LAG and one in the LG.

Conclusion: The use of IVRA with atracurium/lidocaine is a potentially effective IVRA agent for enhancing analgesia and akinesia in the distal extremities of dogs. However, it is important to consider the potential signs compatible with systemic toxicity that may occur, such as hypersalivation and muscle tremors, after releasing the tourniquet.

Background: This study describes associations between bulk tank somatic cell count (BTSCC) and farm management practices, parlour management practices and implemented technologies, milking management practices, somatic cell count (SCC) control strategies, and farmer demographics and attitudes around SCC management using a sample of Irish dairy farms.

Results: This paper utilised a pre-existing dataset from a farm management and technology survey of 376 commercial Irish dairy farms conducted in 2022. Five mixed models were used to examine associations between variables in each of the five survey sections and log-10 transformed BTSCC (log10BTSCC). Seasonal calving patterns, family members milking alongside survey respondents, and keeping of mastitis treatment records were associated with lower log10BTSCC. Parlour technologies such as automatic cluster removers and automatic washers on the milking machine were associated with significantly reduced log10BTSCC, whereas the presence of backing gates and straight breast rails were associated with increased log10BTSCC. Fore-milking, pre-milking udder preparation and post-milking teat disinfection contributed to lower log10BTSCC. Advice sought from veterinary professionals regarding SCC, multi-faceted approaches to selective dry cow therapy decisions, and utilisation of results from multiple milk recordings were also associated with significantly decreased log10BTSCC.

Conclusions: In this study, we successfully established associations between log10BTSCC and farm management practices, parlour management practices and implemented technologies, milking management practices, SCC control strategies, and farmer demographics and attitudes around SCC management. We identified scope for further research on many of the aspects found to be associated with log10BTSCC in this study, particularly in the areas of cow positioning within parlours, fore-milking practices, milk recording, and means of disseminating SCC advice to farmers, particularly around the topics of parlour hygiene and selective dry cow therapy.