Abstract: Combination of antiparasitic drugs with different mechanisms of action has been suggested as an effective strategy to delay the development of parasite resistance. Upon the need to understand the pharmacological basis of drug combinations, the current study evaluated the potential pharmacokinetic (PK) interactions and the clinical efficacy (pharmacodynamic response) occurring after the subcutaneous administration of ivermectin (IVM) and levamisole (LEV) given both separately and co-administered to parasitized calves on three commercial farms (A, B and C). Sixty (60) male calves naturally infected with gastrointestinal nematodes were randomly allocated into three groups (n= 15): IVM: treated with IVM by subcutaneous injection (0.2 mg/kg); LEV: treated subcutaneously with LEV (8 mg/kg); IVM+LEV: simultaneously treated with IVM and LEV (2 subcutaneous injections at the same dose rates). Seven (7) animals from each treated group (farm C) were randomly selected to perform the PK study. Drug concentrations were measured by HPLC. The therapeutic response (efficacy) was determined at 14 days after treatment by the fecal eggs reduction test (FECRT). The mean IVM area under the concentration vs time curve (AUC) obtained after administration of IVM alone (274 ng.d/mL) was similar to that obtained when IVM was co-administered with LEV (295 ng.d/mL). Likewise, mean LEV AUC values were similar after LEV administration alone (8.90 µg.h/mL) or combined with IVM (9.11 µg.h/mL). No adverse PK interactions were observed after the combined treatment, with similar PK parameters (P>0.05) obtained between the single-drug and the combination-based strategies. On farm A, the overall therapeutic responses (clinical efficacy) were 38% (IVM), 99% (LEV) and 100% (IVM+LEV). While the gastrointestinal nematode species Cooperia spp. and Haemonchus spp. survived the IVM treatment, Haemonchus spp. survived the LEV treatment. Similarly, total efficacies were 42% (IVM), 99% (LEV) and 100% (IVM+LEV) on farm B, and 54% (IVM), 99% (LEV) and 100% (IVM+LEV) on farm C. On those farms, IVM was ineffective against Cooperia spp. and/or Haemonchus spp., while LEV failed to control Ostertagia spp. Remarkably, the combination of both molecules was the only treatment that achieved 100% efficacy against all nematode genera (Cooperia, Ostertagia, Haemonchus and Oesophagostomum spp.). Based on the described PK-pharmacodynamic (PK-PD) assessment, the IVM+LEV combination appears to be a promising pharmacological option for controlling resistant gastrointestinal nematodes in cattle, with the additional potential to delay the progression of nematode anthelmintic resistance. Overall, the work described here contributes with sound and original pharmacology data useful to optimize parasite control in livestock. This drug combination strategy may enhance treatment efficacy while promoting more sustainable parasite management practices in cattle production systems.

Abstract: Severe nasal vestibular stenosis in brachycephalic cats involves species-specific anatomi-cal structures distinct from those in dogs, often leading to a high recurrence rate even after standard surgical correction. This case report introduces an innovative surgical strategy for a refractory Exotic Shorthair cat presenting with obligate open-mouth breathing and complete nasal obstruction despite three previous surgical interventions. To remove the recurrent scar tissue and maximize the nasal vestibular lumen, a combined surgical ap-proach was performed, incorporating a modified Trader's technique, bilateral wedge re-section, and bilateral single pedicle advancement flaps. To maintain the acquired airway and prevent restenosis, a steroid-eluting bioabsorbable implant (PROPEL Contour) was placed within the resected nasal vestibule, marking its first application in veterinary medicine. Postoperatively, open-mouth breathing resolved immediately. At the three-month follow-up, normal nasal breathing was maintained without restenosis or nasal discharge, and no implant-related adverse effects or infections were observed. The concurrent application of radical structural resection and a PROPEL Contour implant ef-fectively suppresses tissue regrowth and maintains stable nasal patency, offering a highly promising therapeutic protocol for refractory feline nasal vestibular stenosis.

Abstract: Potassium homeostasis is essential for maintaining membrane potential and normal neuromuscular function. Although potassium disturbances are clinically relevant in several species, their prevalence and prognostic significance in pet rabbits remain poorly characterized. This retrospective study evaluated plasma potassium concentrations at admission in 1,773 venous samples from 1,312 pet rabbits and assessed associations with mortality, glycemia, and renal markers (BUN and creatinine) using i-Stat portable analyzer. Normokalemia (3.4–5.7mmol/L) was observed in 78.1% of samples, while hypokalemia and hyperkalemia occurred in 13.9% and 8.0%, respectively. Overall, 7-day mortality was 21.3%, with most deaths (68.7%) occurring within 48 hours. Both hypo- and hyperkalemia were associated with increased mortality, with hyperkalemia conferring the greatest risk (relative risk up to 5.4 at 24 h; P< 0.0001). Potassium concentrations were higher in non-survivors at all time points. Hyperkalemia was also associated with hypoglycemia and azotemia (P< 0.0001), suggesting impaired renal potassium excretion and possible alterations in insulinmediated cellular potassi-um uptake. No consistent association was observed between hyperglycemia and hyperkalemia. These findings indicate that plasma potassium disturbances are common in pet rabbits and are associated with short-term mortality and metabolic derangements. Early identification and correction of potassium imbalances and their causes may improve outcomes in critically ill rabbits.

Abstract: Yellow fever (YF) remains a significant vector-borne zoonotic disease in tropical regions of the Americas, despite the availability of an effective vaccine for more than eight decades. In South America, the virus is maintained primarily through a jungle transmission cycle involving mosquitoes of the genera Haemagogus and Sabethes and several species of non-human primates (NHPs), which serve as amplifying hosts and important epidemiological sentinels. This narrative review revisits the current status of YF epizootics in South America and examines their implications for surveillance, ecological dynamics, and the risk of spillover to human populations. The review synthesizes recent evidence on the role of NHPs in the maintenance and detection of YF virus circulation, highlighting the high susceptibility of certain neotropical primates, particularly species of the genus Alouatta, which often experience high mortality during outbreaks. Reports of epizootics across Brazil, Colombia, Peru, Bolivia, and Venezuela illustrate the virus's ongoing circulation and geographic expansion in tropical ecosystems. Ecological factors such as deforestation, habitat fragmentation, environmental change, and increased human activity in forested areas modify transmission dynamics and increase opportunities for spillover to humans. The integration of wildlife monitoring, entomological surveillance, genomic analysis, and epidemiological data is essential to improve early detection and response. In this context, the One Health framework provides a comprehensive approach to understanding the complex interactions among humans, animals, and ecosystems that drive YF transmission. Strengthening regional surveillance systems, improving laboratory capacities, and promoting coordinated public health interventions are critical to preventing human outbreaks and mitigating the ecological and public health impact of YF in South America.

Abstract: This study investigated the effects of dietary nano-antimicrobial peptides (NAPs) on the microbial communities and metabolic profiles in Tibetan sheep. Using 16S rRNA gene high-throughput sequencing and non-targeted metabolomics, the contents of the small intestine, rumen, and rectum were systematically analyzed in a control group (Group A) and a NAP-supplemented group (Group B). Multi-omics integration methods, including O2PLS and Pearson correlation analysis, were employed to explore the association between microbial communities and metabolites. Alpha and beta diversity analyses revealed significant differences (P < 0.05) in the microbial community structure of the small intestine between the two groups. In contrast, the rumen and rectal microbiota remained relatively stable, indicating that the regulatory effects of NAPs on the intestinal microecology are site-specific. In the small intestine, NAPs altered the composition of dominant functional microbiota and the abundance of taxa related to energy metabolism. Metabolomic analysis identified significant shifts in metabolic profiles, specifically within the bile acid, fatty acid, and phospholipid pathways (P < 0.05). Group A exhibited baseline steady-state characteristics (e.g., cholic acids and phospholipids), whereas Group B showed activation of unsaturated fatty acids and related metabolites. Multi-omics integration revealed a stable systematic association between intestinal microbial genera and metabolites. Specifically, bile acid and prostaglandin metabolites were negatively correlated with Firmicutes-related taxa, suggesting a potential role for bile acid metabolism in regulating intestinal microecology and host immunity. These findings suggest that NAP supplementation may contribute to maintaining host energy metabolism and intestinal homeostasis by regulating intestinal microecology.

Abstract: Mycotoxin contamination of cattle feed commonly results in chronic, subclinical exposure with adverse effects on liver function and oxidative status. This controlled field trial evaluated a multi-component mycotoxin detoxifier in fattening mixed Limousin calves fed naturally contaminated diets under commercial production conditions. Twenty-four clinically healthy calves were randomly allocated to a control group or to a treatment group receiving a detoxifying additive containing adsorbent clays, phytogenic extracts (silymarin and curcumin) and yeast-derived components for 60 days. Feed, blood, fecal and liver samples were analyzed to assess biochemical, oxidative and histopathological re-sponses throughout the experimental period. The diet contained aflatoxin B1, fumonisins and zearalenone at concentrations exceeding guidance limits, indicating chronic mul-ti-mycotoxin exposure. No clinical signs of overt mycotoxicosis were observed. All bio-chemical parameters remained within physiological ranges; however, γ-glutamyl trans-ferase activity and protein carbonyl levels were significantly lower in treated calves com-pared with controls (p < 0.05). Other oxidative stress markers did not differ between groups, and histopathology revealed only mild, non-specific liver changes. In conclusion, supplementation with the tested mycotoxin detoxifier was safe and associated with im-proved hepatic enzyme regulation and reduced protein oxidative damage under field conditions.

Abstract: The radiographic appearance of the urinary bladder in guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus) affected by cystitis is poorly characterized. This retrospective case-control study assessed the radiographic characteristics of the urinary bladder (digital abdominal and whole-body radiographs) in 24 healthy guinea pigs and 24 guinea pigs diagnosed with cystitis. Inclusion criteria for the cystitis cohort included presence of clinical signs (hematuria, incontinence, stranguria, abdominal discomfort, apathy, and inappetence), leukocyturia and/or bacteriuria, complemented by right lateral radiographs and either ultrasound or a positive urine culture. Radiographic criteria indicative of cystitis were systematically evaluated using a vertebral bladder score (VBS) expressed in lumbar vertebral units (LVU) and reference marker lines on lateral radiographs to assess urinary bladder distension. Compared to the control group, radiographs of guinea pigs with cystitis demonstrated increased bladder opacity (46% of cases) and solitary uroliths (25%). Bladder height in patients with cystitis exceeded that of healthy counterparts (median: 16.6 vs 13.0 mm). The VBS in the cystitis group was significantly elevated (median: 1.50 vs 1.20 LVU). This investigation revealed that enhanced bladder distension and increased bladder opacity, with a VBS surpassing 1.3 LVU, correlated with the presence of cystitis.

Abstract:

Photosensitisation is a clinically significant dermatological and systemic disorder affecting grazing livestock worldwide. The condition arises following the ingestion or dermal exposure to photodynamic compounds that, upon activation by ultraviolet (UV) or visible light, induce tissue injury. Plant‑associated photosensitisation remains one of the most important aetiological categories in veterinary toxicology and may occur via primary (direct phototoxic) or secondary (hepatogenous) mechanisms. This review synthesises current knowledge on the occurrence of photosensitising compounds in plants, their biochemical and toxicodynamic properties, and their clinical relevance in livestock species. Emphasis is placed on major primary photosensitising taxa, including Heracleum spp. and Hypericum perforatum, as well as hepatotoxic pyrrolizidine alkaloid‑containing plants such as Senecio spp. Mechanistic pathways, plant metabolite ecology, and toxicopathological outcomes are discussed alongside illustrative case material. The review aims to provide a consolidated veterinary toxicology framework for understanding plant‑associated photosensitisation in grazing systems.

Abstract: Dermatophytosis is a superficial fungal skin disease of cats and dogs. The most common pathogen of small animals belongs to the genera Microsporum and Trichophyton. It is an important skin disease because it is contagious and can be transmitted to people. Refractory dermatophytosis has become an increasing concern in dermatological practice due to poor response to standard antifungal therapy. The condition is characterised by chronicity, recurrence or persistence despite adequate treatment. This study aimed to assess the clinical profile and therapeutic outcomes in patients with refractory dermatophytosis. An 8-year-old intact male Spitz dog weighing 10 kg, presented with persistent alopecia, scaling, erythema and pruritus despite multiple courses of systemic and topical antifungal agents. Diagnosis was confirmed by microscopic examination, culture and punch biopsy. Due to the lack of response to standard therapy, Posaconazole was initiated based on antifungal susceptibility testing (AFST); however, AFST is not routinely performed for dermatophytosis, although it may provide valuable guidance in refractory infections by identifying reduced susceptibility or resistance to commonly used antifungal agents. Marked clinical improvement was observed, with complete clinical and mycological cure achieved without adverse effects. This report highlights a case of refractory dermato-phytosis in which antifungal susceptibility testing guided the successful use of Posaconazole. The case highlights the diagnostic challenges associated with recurrent dermatophytosis and underscores the potential role of antifungal susceptibility-guided therapy in managing treatment-resistant infections. Hence, Posaconazole is a promising alternative antifungal agent for managing refractory dermatophytosis in dogs.

Abstract: Myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) is the most common acquired heart valve disease in dogs and it may contribute to cardiovascular-renal axis disorders (CvRD) in dogs. Sensitive and early biomarkers of renal involvement are needed. In this prospective and observational study, 84 dogs were enrolled (20 healthy dogs and 64 dogs with MMVD, categorized using the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine guidelines. Serum and urinary parameters were analyzed, including tubular biomarkers expressed as creatinine-ratios: urinary alkaline phosphatase (uALPc), gamma-glutamyl transferase (uGGTc), N-acetyl-β-D-glucosaminidase (uNAGc) and cystatin C (uCystc). uALPc, uGGTc and uNAGc were higher in MMVD than in controls; uALPc and uGGTc were increased from stage B1, uNAGc was higher in stages with cardiomegaly (B2 and C+D), and uCystc increased mainly in clinical stages (C+D). Serum renal markers increased only in clinical stages. ROC analysis showed good discrimination for MMVD with uALPc (AUC 0.87) and uGGTc (0.86); for cardiomegaly with uALPc (0.77) and uNAGc (0.75); and for congestive heart failure with SDMA (0.85) and uCystc (0.75). No urinary biomarker was associated with daily furosemide dose. Urinary tubular biomarkers, particularly uALPc and uGGTc, detect early CvRD in dogs with MMVD and complement traditional serum markers.

Abstract: Lactic acid bacteria are commonly investigated as probiotic microorganisms for improving gut health and reducing antibiotic use in swine production. This study aimed to isolate and perform preliminary phenotypic screening of presumptive probiotic bacteria from feces of healthy piglets raised without antibiotic or probiotic supplementation. Fecal samples (n = 42) were collected from piglets of different ages, and LAB isolates were obtained using selective culture-based methods. A total of 135 Gram-positive, cata-lase-negative bacilli were subjected to in vitro evaluation of selected probiotic-related characteristics, including tolerance to acidic and bile conditions, cell surface hydropho-bicity, hemolytic activity, and antimicrobial activity against swine-associated indicator bacteria. Two isolates (PMvet212 and PMvet318) survived exposure to pH 3.1 with less than 1 log CFU/mL reduction and tolerated 0.3% bile salt, while PMvet212 also survived at 0.5% bile salt. Both isolates exhibited low hydrophobicity values (7.85–12.38%) and showed alpha-hemolytic activity. Cell-free supernatants from these isolates inhibited Escherichia coli isolated from diarrheic piglets and Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538, with inhibition zones classified as intermediate. Overall, the results indicate that a limited number of piglet-derived isolates exhibit in vitro tolerance to gastrointestinal stress con-ditions and moderate antimicrobial activity. This study provides preliminary data to support further identification, safety assessment, and in vivo evaluation of selected isolates for potential application in swine health management.

Abstract:

In 2023, Cyprus experienced a large-scale epizootic of feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) associated with a novel feline coronavirus, FCoV-23. While molecular investigations have elucidated its recombinant origin, field-based clinical and epidemiological data remain limited. A prospective study used a structured 30-item questionnaire embedded in veterinary management software to characterize FIP cases. Data were voluntarily submitted by registered veterinarians across Cyprus for cases identified between late 2022 and 2025. Data from 68 cases reported by 22 clinics (response rate 21.0%) were analyzed. Affected cats were older than typically reported for FIP (mean age of 3.9 years; median = 3.0; range 0.4y - 12.9y, SD = 3.41), with most cases documented from Limassol (51.5%) and Nicosia (25.0%). The most frequently reported clinical signs were anorexia (60.3%) and weight loss (54.4%), while neurological involvement was documented in 35.3% of cases. An albumin-to-globulin ratio <0.8 was observed in 86.8% of cats tested. Antiviral (GS-441524 or molnupiravir) therapy was administered in 92.2% of cases, with reported clinical improvement in 88.9%. These findings demonstrate the value of questionnaire-based reporting for documenting outbreak-associated disease patterns and confirm the change in viral tropism seen in FCoV-23 infection as an increased prevalence of neurological cases compared to ‘traditional’ FIP.

Abstract: Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) is responsive to treatment with the adenosine analogue GS-441524 (GS-44) and its prodrug, remdesivir (REM), both now available on veterinary prescription in many countries. Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) of GS-44 has the potential to support dose selection for individual cats however, TDM assays are currently only offered by one, UK based, laboratory. This study describes a simple, cost-effective, and environmentally conscious high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method for the quantification of GS-44 in feline plasma or serum. The method was validated in accordance with the International Council for Harmonisation M10 guidelines for bioanalytical methods. Calibration standards demonstrated linearity across a range of 15 to 5100 ng/mL, R² = 0.9978, with a lower limit of quantification 8.0 ng/mL and upper limit of quantification 5048 ng/mL; equivalent to an assay range of 0.33 to 208 µM. Precision, accuracy and spike recovery were within ±5% for most standard concentrations (±10% at the lower two). Carry-over, dilution integrity, and analyte stability under common storage conditions all met the guideline criteria. This is a simple, robust and accurate eco-friendly method suitable for being adopted by diagnostic laboratories, enabling routine TDM for cats undergoing treatment for FIP with GS-44 and/or REM.

Abstract: Remdesivir (REM) and its parent drug, GS-441524 (GS-44), are used to treat cats with Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP), resulting in a survival rate of c 85% (range 77%-96%). Cats suffering from FIP exhibit complex and variable clinical presentations, which will cause concurrent variations in the pharmacokinetics (PK) of GS-44. In turn, this will vary the ability of target cells (monocytes and tissue macrophages) to absorb GS-44 in sufficient quantities to achieve optimal antiviral efficacy, resulting in full recovery. Sparse data exists to guide treatment regimens optimized for every presentation of FIP. Therapeutic Drug Monitoring (TDM) measured the GS-44 concentration in 728 blood samples from 263 cats undergoing treatment and generated 173 PK graphs. These identified individuals that varied in their ability to absorb GS-44, leading to sub-optimal (11%) and supra-optimal (12%) dose-normalised plasma concentrations. Dosage alterations were suggested to guide subsequent dosages to ensure optimum GS-44 concentrations for individual cats (the clinical outcome report will be published separately). Proposed TDM target values are: area under the concentration v time curve (AUC), at least 220 µM*h, time per day that plasma concentration exceeds 3 µM, at least 23 hours, time per day plasma concentration exceeds 10 µM, at least 9 hours.

Abstract: Feline pulmonary carcinomas are rare and often carry a poor prognosis, particularly when associated with feline lung–digit syndrome. We report a cat with primary pulmonary carcinoma and extensive metastases—including digits, pleura, mandible, scapula, spleen, skeletal muscle, and distant lymph nodes—supporting the broader “MODAL syndrome” concept. Adjuvant therapy with toceranib phosphate and meloxicam achieved prolonged survival and excellent quality of life, with no adverse effects despite dose escalation. Rapid progression after discontinuation suggests a role for toceranib in delaying tumour growth. Immunohistochemistry revealed c-kit expression in one metastatic lesion but not in the primary tumour or most metastases, highlighting intratumoral heterogeneity and the complexity of targeted therapy. The observed benefit likely reflects toceranib’s multi-target activity (VEGFR2, PDGFR), impacting angiogenesis and tumour progression. This case represents the first report of toceranib use in feline pulmonary carcinoma and underscores its potential as a palliative option.

Abstract: This study was designed to explore the effects of Qi Ling Gui Fu Prescription on tissue fibrosis in broilers with ascites syndrome (AS). A total of 120 8-day-old Ross broilers were randomly divided into six groups: the Blank group (B group), the Model group (M group), the High and Low dose of Qi Ling Gui Fu Prescription groups (H and L groups), the Positive Chinese medicine group (P group), and the L-arginine group (L-arg group). The broilers at 35 days old were dissected to record the ascites heart index (AHI). The collagen fibers in the lung were observed using Masson’s trichrome stain, and the indexes of serum oxidative stress were measured. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to detect the contents of tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukin (IL)-4, IL-10, and IL-1β in different tissues. Compared to the B group, the ascites heart index in the M group was significantly increased (P < 0.01); the results of Masson’s trichrome stain showed an accumulation of collagen fiber in lung tissue; there was no significant difference in serum concentration of glutathione peroxidase (P > 0.05); the malondialdehyde concentration was notably elevated (P < 0.01), while the superoxide dismutase concentration was markedly decreased (P < 0.05); moreover, the contents of tumor necrosis factor alpha, IL-4, and IL-1β proteins were considerably raised in all tissues (P < 0.01), while the content of IL-10 protein was significantly reduced (P < 0.01, P < 0.05). Relative to the M group, the above indexes in all treatment groups were improved to different degrees (P < 0.01, P < 0.05), with the H group showing the most significant effect. Qi Ling Gui Fu Prescription and L-arg can improve the fibrosis of broilers with AS by mediating oxidative stress, and moderating inflammatory responses. Notably, the effect of a high dose of Qi Ling Gui Fu Prescription was better, which can prevent and treat AS in broilers more effectively.

Abstract: The close physiological relationship between the left atrium (LA) and left ventricle (LV) suggests that an index assessing both the cardiac chambers simultaneously could provide useful information about disease severity. Consequently, investigators have proposed the atrioventricular coupling index (LACi), and demonstrated its utility in predicting the likelihood of atrial fibrillation, heart failure, and other cardiovascular events in humans. No studies have been reported in veterinary medicine. Therefore, we measured the LACi in healthy dogs and dogs affected by myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD). Two hundred and thirty-three dogs (105 healthy dogs and 128 dogs with MMVD) were retrospectively included in the study. The LACi (LA volume/LV volume*100) at LV end-diastole (LACi-ED) and LV end-systole (LACi-ES) of each dog was measured using a monoplane Simpson’s Method of Discs from the left apical four-chamber view. In healthy dogs, LACi-ED and LACi-ES showed no relationship with bodyweight, heart rate and age (R2 &lt; 0.03, for all variables). In MMVD dogs, LACi-ED and LACi-ES differed between ACVIM stages (P &lt; 0.00 and P &lt; 0.02, for all stages). The LACi-ED and LACi-ES had similar accuracy in identifying MMVD dogs with congestive heart failure (area under the curve of 0.920 and 0.906, respectively). Our data suggest that LACi can be useful in assessing left atrioventricular function in dogs with MMVD but the diagnostic accuracy in identifying dogs with congestive heart failure was not superior to left-atrial-to-aortic ratio. Prospective studies are needed to evaluate the predictive value of this new echocardiographic index in dogs affected by MMVD.

Abstract: Exporting food products from the European Union (EU) to the United States of America (USA) involves navigating complex regulations and procedural barriers that hinder market access. Italian food businesses (FBs), particularly small and medium-sized enter-prises (SMEs), often face difficulties accessing clear guidance, as national procedures are scattered across multiple sources. This paper proposes a structured four-step analytical framework to support EU FBs: product-specific analysis, identification of relevant EU and USA legislation, comparative legislative analysis via concordance tables, and identifica-tion of procedures to integrate into the Food Safety Management System. The framework was applied to an Italian medium-sized FB exporting pork-based pasta sauce to the USA. Beyond the specific case study, the proposed framework was designed to be replicable and adaptable to different food products and third-country destinations. As such, it can support both FBs and Competent Authorities in conducting risk-based assessments of regulatory equivalence and export compliance. Results indicated the need for Sanitation Standard Operating Procedures, thermal process validation, direct verification activities, and pre-shipment review. Findings emphasize that operational and procedural barriers disproportionately affect SMEs, highlighting the importance of targeted support to facil-itate market access and strengthen certification systems.

Abstract: Cantrell syndrome (CS) is a rare congenital disorder involving defects in the thoraco-abdominal midline, the diaphragm, the pericardium, the sternum and the heart. Since the first description of the syndrome, 165 well-documented cases in humans have been reported, reflecting remarkable heterogeneity ranging from complete pentalogy to partial or atypical variants. We conducted a systematic review and classified body wall defects and associated anomalies into the following nine categories: midline defects, lateral defects, and special cases. Each case was reassessed for umbilical cord status, body wall morphology, cardiac anomalies and additional malformations. Midline defects predominated (152/165), with variants of supraumbilical defect being the most frequent; umbilical hernias accounted for ten cases as a distinct subgroup. Lateral defects were rare (nine cases, 5.5%), typically presenting with thoracogastroschisis or lateral thoracoabdominoschisis, and often associated with normal cords. Across all categories, cardiac anomalies were universal, with ventricular and atrial septal defects being the most common. Reclassification revealed that many cases originally labelled as 'classic PC' were better defined as partial or atypical forms. This unified framework clarifies the epidemiology, enhances diagnostic accuracy and, from a One Health perspective, highlights CS as a shared developmental vulnerability across species.

Abstract: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global threat to human, animal and environmental health, underscoring the need for integrated surveillance to understand its dynamics and ecosystem interactions. This study investigated the potential of swifts (Apus spp.), long-distance migratory birds, as valuable bioindicator of environmental AMR dissemination. Four sampling sessions were conducted over two years (2023-24) at a wildlife rehabilitation center in Trieste, Italy. Buccal and cloacal swabs were collected from 47 swifts: 10 sampled at arrival and 37 before autumn migration. Swabs were streaked on selective media for targeted isolation of Enterobacterales, Bacillales and Lactobacillales, yielding 168 bacterial isolates. Bacteria were identified using MALDI-TOF and antimicrobial susceptibility was assessed through disk diffusion method. Of the 168 bacterial isolates, 51 (30.36%) were non-wild type (NWT), with highest per-centages of NWT isolates for clarithromycin (33.33%), erythromycin (31.50%), clindamycin (21.88%), and tetracycline (14.29%). Methicillin-resistant staphylococci (45.83%) and carbapenem NWT isolates (9.38%) were also detected. Bacillales isolates showed significantly higher NWT proportion (58.33%; p < 0.0001), compared to Enter-obacterales and Lactobacillales. These findings, in clinically healthy non-antimicrobial treated swifts, suggest environmental exposure to resistant bacteria, and support a possible role of swifts as bioindicators of environmental AMR contamination, high-lighting the need to strengthen environmental AMR surveillance within a One Health perspective.