The aim of this study was to characterise mandibular shape variation and asymmetry patterns in three sheep breeds from two geographical regions: Pramenka from Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Akkaraman and Kangal Akkaraman from Türkiye. Thirty-four male mandibles (10 Pramenka, 12 Akkaraman, 12 Kangal Akkaraman) were analysed by landmark-based geometric morphometrics, with eleven homologous landmarks digitised on lateral photographs. Generalised Procrustes Analysis, Principal Component Analysis (PCA), Discriminant Function Analysis (DFA), allometric regression, and Procrustes ANOVA were performed in MorphoJ. The first three principal components explained 63.37% of total shape variation. In the PCA morphospace, Akkaraman and Kangal Akkaraman specimens overlapped almost completely, whereas Pramenka formed a clearly separated cluster. DFA confirmed significant shape differences in all pairwise comparisons, with cross-validated classification accuracy of 79.2% between the two Anatolian breeds and 100% for both Pramenka comparisons. Shape differences were most pronounced in the pars incisiva, pars molaris, corpus mandibulae, and ramus mandibulae. Centroid size explained only 2.51% of shape variation (P = 0.3467), indicating no significant allometric effect. Fluctuating asymmetry exceeded directional asymmetry for both size and shape; directional asymmetry in shape nevertheless remained statistically significant, consistent with a degree of masticatory laterality.Mandibular morphology therefore differs primarily between geographically distant breeds, while the two Anatolian breeds remain morphologically close, and the observed asymmetry patterns point to developmental instability as the principal source. These data provide morphometric reference values for future work on breed differentiation, functional adaptation, and zooarchaeological identification of ovine remains.

A proper diet that provides balanced nutrients according to species, breed, age, sex, and purpose is essential for achieving optimal animal growth, development, and physiological function. In relation to this statement, the aim of this study was to quantitatively assess the effects of different dietary regimens on the morphometric characteristics of the small intestine of late puerperal rats, with a emphasis on the duodenum and jejunum. The research included measurements of the height and width of intestinal villi, and the depth of crypts, in order to determine specific morphological changes associated with the influence of the diet. The experiment involved 18 adult rats divided into three groups: the first group received standard commercial rat feed (control group), the second group was fed bakery products, and the third group was given a diet consisting exclusively of meat. Over a 49-day period, body weight, organ weights, and intestinal segment lengths were measured. Histological analyses of duodenum and jejunum samples were performed, alongside detailed morphometric assessment of the intestinal mucosa. Significant alterations in intestinal villi were observed. In the duodenum, the greatest villus height and width, as well as crypt depth, were observed in rats that had meat-based diet. Similarly, in the jejunum, rats from the same group exhibited the greatest villus height and crypt depth, while the mean measure of the villus width was almost identical to mean measure in rats that were fed with commercial food. These findings suggest that diet composition profoundly influences intestinal architecture and function. Overall, the study emphasizes the critical role of balanced nutrition in maintaining gastrointestinal health, systemic homeostasis, and optimal development, not only in laboratory animals but also in a broader veterinary and biomedical context.

Endocrinological and physiological changes associated with parturition and begining of lactation have negative effects to immune functions, dry matter intake and cows have to go through period of negative energy balance of different intensity and duration. After parturition, about 80% of dairy cows enter the period of negative energy balance in early lactation and body condition score decrease, because of great energy needs for milk synthesis, which is followed with compromising of reproductive performances. Lameness is chronical, painful and stressful condition, associated with lower reproductive performances and it represents one of three most common reason for economical losses in dairy industry. This study had included 44 Holstein Friesian cows. Status of reproductive organs and body condition has been assessed by sonography and for lameness ZINPRO method. More frequent lameness have been observed, where 59% cows had been in category 2, while 32,2% cows in category 3. Cows with insufficient body condition score (BCS) before parturition, during period of puerperium had anovulation of 25%. Farms should have calendar od routine body condition and lameness assessment, because of negative effects, they may have to many physiological functions.

ABSTRACT Background Studying the hyoid bone in dogs is of significant importance in veterinary surgery and anatomy, as it aids in understanding how variations in this structure may affect tongue mobility, swallowing and vocalisation across breeds. Objectives This study aims to provide preliminary insights into the relationship between structural differences in the hyoid bone and breed‐specific functional adaptations in tongue shape and movement by analysing shape variations within the hyoid apparatus. Methods Hyoid bones from computed tomography images of 26 dogs were modelled, and principal component analysis (PCA) was conducted to examine shape variation in the hyoid bones. Additionally, the influences of age and weight on hyoid bone shape were assessed. Results PCA showed that PC1 (42.4%) reflected a relatively conservative pattern related to hyoid and skull morphology, whereas PC2 and PC3 indicated greater individual variation. Brachycephalic breeds exhibited a more dorsoventrally positioned and compact hyoid structure, while mesocephalic breeds showed a more aligned and elongated configuration of the stylohyoid and thyrohyoid bones. No significant correlations were found between hyoid shape and age, weight or Procrustes distance, suggesting a stronger influence of genetic factors. Conclusions Understanding the morphological variation of the hyoid bone in dogs contributes to veterinary anatomy and has practical applications in veterinary medicine, particularly in surgical and rehabilitation practices. Given the hyoid apparatus's critical role in swallowing and vocalisation, insights from this study may enhance clinical approaches to treating conditions linked to hyoid bone morphology.

Simple Summary This study examined whether two neighboring areas on the inner surface of the skull base differ in three native sheep breeds. These areas are difficult to study using traditional methods, but imaging techniques allowed us to examine them in detail. We found differences between breeds in both size and shape, although the differences in shape were more noticeable. The two regions were partly independent but also changed together in a coordinated way. In contrast, their sizes were not strongly related. Overall, the results show that subtle differences between breeds can be detected even in hidden parts of the skull. They also suggest that nearby areas of the skull base are connected in how they vary, which may be useful for future studies of skull structure and development.

Three-dimensional geometric morphometric methods have emerged as a pivotal tool in veterinary anatomy, taxonomy, clinical research, and studies of morphological diversity. This article summarizes the key stages, applications, clinical potential, and recommendations for data standardization in 3D morphometrics. Datasets are typically acquired using radiological modalities, including computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and 3D surface scanning, each offering specific advantages and constraints contingent on the research context. Standardized landmark sets are essential in 3D morphometric studies to ensure reproducibility and comparability of results across independent investigations. Consistent use of reference landmarks enables repeatable analyses, but the number of landmarks directly influences the required sample size and statistical power. Consequently, a minimal yet balanced landmark configuration is critical. This article proposes a standardized, minimal landmark set for the skulls of horses, cattle, and sheep to enhance inter-study reproducibility and comparability. Landmark selection prioritizes anatomically distinct points to avoid excessive landmarking, which may complicate analyses or compromise interpretability. Applications of 3D morphometric methods include orthopedic surgical planning, biomechanical modeling, and assessment of congenital anomalies, providing enhanced precision in diagnostics and research. In conclusion, 3D geometric morphometric methods represent a robust analytical framework in veterinary anatomy, morphology, and clinical research. Their significance is poised to grow through integration with automated landmarking, artificial intelligence-driven analyses, and international data-sharing networks, thereby advancing scientific inquiry in novel dimensions.

Understanding meat categorization is a fundamental component of veterinary education, especially within the context of food hygiene and public health. Veterinary students must grasp legal classifications of meat, which depend on variables such as species, age, quality, and processing techniques. This knowledge is essential for accurate meat inspection, labeling, and compliance with both national and international food safety standards. Despite prior exposure to muscle anatomy in anatomy course, students often face challenges in applying this knowledge to practical meat classification tasks. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of three distinct instructional methods in improving veterinary students’ ability to identify meat categories and associated muscle structures: traditional classroom teaching, computer-based instruction using 3D models, and immersive virtual reality (VR). Participants included fourth-year veterinary students during the summer semester of the 2024/2025 academic year. To facilitate digital learning, a dedicated 3D model library “3DMeat” was developed as well as virtual reality environment. Results indicate that technology-enhanced instructional approaches, can significantly enhance student engagement and understanding of complex topics such as meat categorization. Initial test scores were highest in the group using 3D models (16.3 ± 4.1), followed by the traditional lecture-based group (15.6 ± 3.07), and the VR group (11.7 ± 5.1). However, a follow-up assessment conducted 2 weeks later revealed that VR group demonstrated the highest retention of knowledge. These findings suggest that although immediate performance may vary, immersive learning environments such as VR can foster stronger medium-term retention of complex material.

The neuroanatomy course consistently presents significant challenges, primarily due to the short lifespan of formalin-preserved brain specimens and their restricted availability. Numerous studies have evaluated the strengths and limitations of alternative resources for neuroanatomy education, with a particular focus on technology-based learning methods. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of integrating 3D printed models into the neuroanatomy curriculum and to evaluate student satisfaction with their use. The experimental group consisted of the first-year students enrolled in the integrated study program at the University of Sarajevo-Veterinary Faculty during the summer semester of the academic year 2022/2023. The course was organized using 3DP models for 15 h, while during the remaining three hours formalin-preserved specimens were utilized. Data obtained from this cohort were compared with the results of the previous two cohorts (2021–2022 and 2020–2021), who studied veterinary anatomy exclusively using formalin-preserved specimens. The neuroanatomy test scores improved in the experimental group compared to the two control groups. The students exhibit positive attitudes and report high satisfaction with using 3DP models. They support innovative teaching methods and find that the colored segments of the models enhance recognizability of different anatomical structures, highlighting the didactical value of 3DP models. Overall, study demonstrated that 3DP models were highly beneficial for neuroanatomy learning, pedagogically useful and well-received by students.

Background: Different dietary components can affect hematological and biochemical profiles, potentially causing pathohistological changes in liver and kidney tissue. Aim: The animals in the experiment consumed various bakery and meat products, and ultimately, the potential effects on hematological, biochemical, and pathological parameters were evaluated. Methods: The study involved 24 clinically healthy adult rats, randomized into three groups of eight rats each, as follows: rats that consumed meat products (group M), rats that consumed bakery products (group H), and a control group that consumed conventional rodent food (group K) for 7 weeks. After 7 weeks, hematological and biochemical blood analyses were conducted along with pathohistological examinations of the liver and kidneys. Results: Significant differences (p < 0.05) were observed among groups for several hematological and biochemical parameters, including creatinine (CREA), urea, blood urea nitrogen /CREA, calcium, alanine transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, and lipase. Consuming meat products had a less favorable impact on the occurrence of kidney function disorders. Group H exhibited significant differences in leukocyte and platelet counts compared with groups M and K. Extreme echinocytosis was recorded in group M, whereas sideropenic anemia was prominent in group H. Analysis of the livers of rats in groups K and H did not show significant differences in the observed parameters (gamma-glutamyl transferase and total bilirubin), whereas group M had a significantly higher degree of hepatocyte degeneration and steatosis, and the observed infiltrate was also more pronounced, but not significantly. The kidneys of group M showed discrete alterations of the microstructure, i.e., slightly increased cellularity of renal corpuscles and hypertrophy of proximal nephrocyte, whereas the kidney tissue of group K had a regular appearance. Conclusion: Consuming meat products was associated with adverse liver and kidney changes, whereas bakery products led to sideropenic anemia and altered hematological values.