Research Appraisals
Evidence-based critical appraisals of the latest medical research, systematically evaluated using Oxford CEBM methodology.
Showing 3 appraisals
Journal of controlled release : official journal of the Controlled Release Society
Toward animal-free approaches in subcutaneous drug delivery: A pain management case study.
Subcutaneous (s.c.) administration offers practical advantages for long-acting drug delivery, yet its complex tissue environment, lack of standardized models, and limited regulatory guidance pose challenges for predicting pharmacokinetics (PK). Here, we present a complementary set of experimental and computational approaches to reduce reliance on animal testing while maintaining translational relevance. Ex vivo skin models captured the influence of tissue variability, while 3D-printed constructs and molded agarose hydrogels enabled standardized, reproducible in vitro drug release studies. In parallel, machine learning models trained on curated rodent datasets predicted key PK parameters with strong agreement to in vivo data, providing an alternative that bypasses additional animal experiments and resource-intensive assays. Finally, a liposomal carprofen formulation case study demonstrated the translational potential of these methods in veterinary applications. Together, these strategies illustrate routes toward animal-free drug development: simplified experimental systems that mimic s.c. release and computational models that predict systemic PK. By combining them conceptually, we outline a framework that advances the 3Rs principles while supporting mechanistic and predictive understanding of s.c. drug delivery.
10 June 2026
Read appraisal →The Veterinary record
FEC Check: Development of a decision support tool to aid interpretation of gastrointestinal nematode faecal egg counts in sheep
BACKGROUND: Gastrointestinal nematode infections are ubiquitous in grazing livestock worldwide impacting animal health and production. Faecal egg count (FEC) is an accessible diagnostic test that can guide the need for treatment. However, interpretation of FECs can be challenging. METHODS: A prototype decision support tool (DST) was developed using a 'traffic light'-style gradient of potential clinical impact on sheep FEC results. Focus groups were conducted with farmers, livestock advisors and veterinary clinicians to examine the barriers to FEC uptake and provide feedback on the prototype tool. RESULTS: Barriers to uptake for FEC testing included timeliness of reporting, lack of perceived need and knowledge gaps. The DST was well received at all focus groups, with simplicity and ease of use identified as key principles to drive uptake. At the 12 months post-launch, the DST had 1916 users. LIMITATIONS: Engagement with stakeholders with less familiarity with FECs may improve usability for a wider audience. CONCLUSION: The final DST developed here represents a practical resource to improve the interpretation of FEC results reported by farmers and other stakeholders. The initial uptake observed within the first year since launch is promising for the wider adoption of evidence-based parasite management.
10 May 2026
Read appraisal →Veterinaria italiana
A One Health systematic review and meta-analysis of Coxiella burnetii prevalence in humans, animals, and vectors in Algeria
Coxiella burnetii, the causative agent of Q fever, is a globally distributed zoonotic pathogen affecting humans, domestic animals, and arthropod vectors. In Algeria, fragmented data suggest widespread circulation, yet no comprehensive quantitative assessment exists. This study aimed to systematically review and meta-analyse the prevalence of C. burnetii in humans, animals, and vectors in Algeria, using a One Health perspective. A systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar was conducted up to January 2026. Studies reporting serological or molecular detection of C. burnetii in Algeria were included. Random-effects meta-analysis was performed to estimate pooled prevalence, with subgroup analyses by host species, region, and diagnostic method. A total of 35 studies were included, encompassing 8,372 samples and 80 prevalence observations. Pooled prevalence was highest in camels (73.7%; 95% CI: 66.5-79.8%), followed by small ruminants (15.8%; 95% CI: 10.6-22.9%) and cattle (11.8%; 95% CI: 7.2-18.8%). Ticks showed a pooled prevalence of 10.0% (95% CI: 3.2-27.1%), while human infection had a pooled prevalence of 3.7% (95% CI: 0.9-13.9%). The south-eastern region exhibited the highest prevalence, and serological methods generally reported higher rates than molecular methods. High heterogeneity (I² > 75%) was observed across studies. Coxiella burnetii is widely circulating among humans, domestic animals, camels, and ticks in Algeria, with notable variation between hosts and regions. Camels and small ruminants act as major reservoirs, while humans remain at risk, particularly those in close contact with livestock. Integrated One Health surveillance and targeted control strategies are urgently needed to reduce the burden of Q fever.
22 Apr 2026
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