The aim of this study was to determine the cardiac damage caused by uterine prolapse in sheep, to reveal the cardiac changes that occur depending on the time elapsed since the event, and to evaluate the ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury induced by reperfusion following treatment using a prolapsed uterine model. The animal material of the study consisted of a total of 35 Awassi sheep that had given birth at least once and were within the first 24 hours postpartum. The sheep were divided into five groups according to the mode of delivery and the time of onset of uterine prolapse. The control group (Group 1, n=7) consisted of sheep that gave birth normally without any intervention. The groups that developed uterine prolapse were as follows: The study consisted of sheep that developed prolapse within 0-6 hours (Group 2, n=7), 6-12 hours (Group 3, n=7), 12-18 hours (Group 4, n=7), and 18-24 hours (Group 5, n=7) depending on the duration of prolapse. Cardiac troponin (cTnI), creatine kinase myocardial band (CK-MB), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), malondealdehyde (MDA), interleukin 6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) levels were determined using a commercial ELISA kit from blood samples taken within one hour after birth from the sheep in the control group and before and 4 hours after treatment from the prolapsed uteri groups. Evaluations performed before and after prolapse treatment revealed significant differences both within and between groups in heart rate, respiratory rate, body temperature, WBC, cTnI, CK-MB, AST (lactate dehydrogenase), LDH, SOD, CAT, MDA, IL-6, and TNF-α (P<0.001). In conclusion, uterine prolapse causes serious cardiac and systemic effects in sheep, exacerbating ischemia-reperfusion injury. Therefore, early diagnosis and rapid intervention are critical for minimizing cardiac damage.
Natural toxins have for centuries evoked fear, fascination, and scientific curiosity. Today, it is well recognized that reptile venoms are not merely weapons for predation or defense, but also an exceptionally rich source of bioactive molecules with significant potential for drug development. Over millions of years of evolution, complex mixtures of peptides, enzymes, and proteins have emerged that precisely target key physiological pathways, including blood coagulation, neural signaling, metabolism, and cellular communication. This remarkable specificity positions venoms among the most important sources of inspiration for modern translational medicine and emphasizes the importance and power of comparative research. Od strupa do zdravila: plazilski toksini kot vir terapevtskih inovacij Izvleček: Naravni toksini že stoletja vzbujajo strah, fascinacijo in znanstveno radovednost. Danes vemo, da strupi plazilcev niso zgolj orožje za lov ali obrambo, temveč predstavljajo izjemno bogat vir bioaktivnih molekul z velikim potencialom za razvoj novih zdravil. Evolucija je skozi milijone let oblikovala kompleksne mešanice peptidov, encimov in proteinov, ki natančno ciljajo ključne fiziološke poti, vključno s strjevanjem krvi, živčnim signaliziranjem, presnovo in celično komunikacijo. Prav ta visoka specifičnost omogoča, da strupi predstavljajo enega najpomembnejših virov navdiha za sodobno translacijsko medicino ter poudarjajo pomen in moč primerjalnih raziskav. Ključne besede: strupi plazilcev; kačji strupi; translacijska medicina; hemostaza; tromboza; razvoj zdravil; GLP-1; antikoagulanti
This study aimed to investigate central nervous system damage and oxidative stress in dogs brought to clinics and hospitals in Ankara, Türkiye with suspected distemper using the same sample. 19 dogs confirmed suspected positive Canine Distemper Virus (CDV+) with lateral flow immunochromatographic rapid test kits formed the ‘CDV+’ group, while 23 clinically healthy dogs with negative test results formed the ‘control’ group. The goal is to identify practical, serum-based markers that can be used for early diagnosis, prognosis determination, and monitoring treatment response in distemper. Glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) levels were significantly higher in the CDV+ group compared to the control group (p = 0.011; False Discovery Rate (FDR-p) = 0.025), whereas Total oxidant status (TOS) and oxidative stress index (OSI) were unexpectedly low (FDR-p = 0.011 for both). No statistical differences were found in neurofilament light chain (NFL), myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody (Anti-MOG), total antioxidant status (TAS), and malondialdehyde (MDA). In receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, the area under the curve (AUC) for GFAP was 0.73, while TOS and OSI (interpreted inversely as indicating low-value disease) yielded AUC values of 0.78 and 0.79, respectively. At the best thresholds, GFAP ≥ 460 ng/L yielded 68% sensitivity and 74% specificity, while TOS ≤ 333 µmol/L and OSI ≤ 12 au thresholds yielded 91% specificity. The multiple logistic model (AUC = 0.86) increased sensitivity and specificity to 84% and 83%, respectively; however, only GFAP was a significant independent predictor (Odds Ratio (OR) ≈ 4.1; p = 0.048). In conclusion, serum GFAP appears to reflect central nervous system (CNS) involvement in dogs infected with distemper, and the combination of GFAP with low TOS and OSI values may enhance diagnostic specificity. These findings indicate that GFAP-based, oxidative marker-inclusive multi-biomarker panels could hold potential for supporting the early diagnosis and prognosis monitoring of canine distemper, although further validation in larger and longitudinal studies is warranted.
Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common type of skin cancer in humans and one of the most frequent in dogs. Interest in studying this tumor type in animals has grown significantly, largely due to its high mutational load. Among the biomarkers, metalloproteinases (MMPs) have stood out. MMPs are a family of calcium- and zinc-dependent proteases that degrade the extracellular matrix (ECM), with MMP-9, a gelatinase, among the most investigated. MMP-9 expression has been reported to be increased in several tumors. The main objective of this study was to evaluate MMP-9 immunostaining in canine SCC. A descriptive analysis of MMP-9 expression was performed, categorizing it in tumor cells as absent, weak, moderate, or strong. In the SCC cases studied, with respect to marking intensity, 27 tumors showed strong intensity (+++), 6 moderate intensity (++), and 4 weak intensity (+). In all degrees of differentiation, a strong staining intensity predominated. In addition, we found MMP-9 expression in the stroma and macrophages, suggesting its role in tumor progression and in modulating the tumor microenvironment. These findings highlight the potential of MMP-9 as a prognostic biomarker. Understanding its role in SCC could significantly improve our ability to predict disease progression in dogs, leading to more effective treatment strategies.
Short food supply chains are an innovative sustainable approach emerging to address global food supply challenges by promoting closer relationships between producers and consumers, minimizing environmental impacts and enhancing rural resilience. This represents the first systematic empirical assessment of short food supply chains (SFSCs) in Slovenia. The study investigates good practices, stakeholder challenges and specific educational needs relevant to developing targeted capacity-building initiatives. Conducted within the framework of the Erasmus+ KA2 project Food Improv’iders, the research applies a quantitative cross-sectional design based on an online survey of Slovenian food producers. Findings indicate that short food supply chains in Slovenia are predominantly characterized by direct sales, participation in local farmers’ markets and an increasing use of national and European-level quality assurance schemes. However, significant barriers persist, including limited regulatory support, inconsistent enforcement of food hygiene regulations and infrastructural constraints such as poor digital connectivity. Producers expressed a strong interest in further training, especially in food safety, marketing and knowledge-sharing on best practices, with a preference for blended learning approaches, combining occasional in-person workshops with digital modules and identified one to two training courses per year as optimal. This study provides the first systematic and statistically supported empirical assessment of short food supply chains in Slovenia, a context that has remained largely unexplored in European SFSC research. Unlike previous studies that focus primarily on Western and Northern European countries or on single dimensions of SFSCs, this research integrates producers’ practices, perceived barriers and capacity-building needs within a sustainability framework. The results reveal distinct generational and educational patterns shaping sales strategies, perceived challenges and preferred learning formats, offering novel evidence to inform targeted educational programmes and policy interventions for strengthening sustainable local food systems in smaller EU member states. Kratke prehranske verige v Sloveniji: raziskovanje izzivov, dobrih praks in izobraževalnih potreb Izvleček: Kratke prehranske verige predstavljajo inovativen in trajnostno naravnan pristop, ki se uveljavlja kot odgovor na globalne izzive oskrbe s hrano, saj spodbuja tesnejše odnose med proizvajalci in potrošniki, zmanjšuje okoljske vplive ter krepi odpornost podeželskih območij. Naša raziskava predstavlja prvo sistematično empirično oceno kratkih prehranskih verig v Sloveniji. Namen študije je raziskati dobre prakse, izzive deležnikov ter specifične izobraževalne potrebe, pomembne za razvoj ciljno usmerjenih programov krepitve zmogljivosti. Raziskava je bila izvedena v okviru projekta Erasmus+ KA2 Food Improv’iders in temelji na kvantitativni presečni raziskovalni zasnovi, izvedeni z uporabo spletnega vprašalnika med slovenskimi pridelovalci hrane. Rezultati kažejo, da so kratke prehranske verige v Sloveniji pretežno zaznamovane z neposredno prodajo, sodelovanjem na lokalnih kmečkih tržnicah ter vse večjo uporabo nacionalnih in evropskih shem kakovosti. Kljub temu ostajajo pomembne ovire, med drugim omejena regulativna podpora, nedosledno izvajanje higienskih predpisov na področju varnosti hrane ter infrastrukturne omejitve, kot je slaba digitalna povezanost. Proizvajalci so izrazili velik interes za dodatna usposabljanja, zlasti na področjih varnosti hrane, trženja ter izmenjave znanja o dobrih praksah. Prednost dajejo kombiniranim oblikam učenja, ki vključujejo občasne delavnice v živo in digitalne učne module, pri čemer so kot optimalno ocenili eno do dve izobraževanji letno. Študija predstavlja prvo sistematično in statistično podprto empirično analizo kratkih prehranskih verig v Sloveniji, ki je bila do zdaj v evropskih raziskavah kratkih prehranskih verig večinoma spregledana. Za razliko od preteklih raziskav, ki se osredotočajo predvsem na zahodno- in severnoevropske države ali na posamezne vidike kratkih prehranskih verig, pa ta raziskava celostno povezuje prakse proizvajalcev, zaznane ovire ter potrebe po krepitvi zmogljivosti v okviru trajnostnega razvoja. Rezultati razkrivajo izrazite generacijske in izobraževalne vzorce, ki vplivajo na prodajne strategije, zaznane izzive in želene učne oblike ter ponujajo nova spoznanja za oblikovanje ciljno usmerjenih izobraževalnih programov in javno-političnih ukrepov za krepitev trajnostnih lokalnih prehranskih sistemov v manjših državah članicah EU. Ključne besede: kratke prehranske verige; lokalni prehranski sistemi; dobre prakse v prehranskih verigah; trajnostni prehranski sistemi; izobraževanje na področju agroživilstva; agroživilski sektor
Mammary tumors are the most common neoplasms in unspayed female dogs. Biomarkers are biological molecules measured in blood or tissue that provide information for the presence of disease, treatment and prognosis. Tumor biomarkers can be used to determine cancer risk, early diagnosis, recurrence or progression. In this study, 125 tissue samples from 31 dogs with mammary tumor were included. It is aimed to evaluate the tissue estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and carbohydrate antigen 15-3 (CA 15-3) in regard to different tumor types and clinicopathological parameters. Tumors included in the study; were evaluated in 3 groups as malignant epithelial tumors group (MET, n=66), hyperplasia&dysplasia (H&D, n=43) group and benign mammary tumor (BMT, n=16) group. The highest ER and PR levels were determined in group BMT (P<0.05). Also, CA 15-3 level in group MET was significantly higher than in group H&D (P=0.01). However, the evaluated biomarkers in group MET were not different with regard to clinicopathological parameters such as histological subtypes and grading, tumor size, and invasion (P>0.05). In this study, ER was moderately and positive correlated with PR (r=0.383, P<0.001) while it was low and positive correlated with EGFR (r=0.223, P<0.05). Also, CA 15-3 was moderately and positive correlated with EGFR (r=0.376, P<0.001) while it was low and positive correlated with PR (r=0.216, P<0.05). This study stated that ELISA is capable enough to detect the ER, PR, EGFR and CA 15-3 in canine mammary tumor tissue. In conclusion, ER and PR can distinguish benign tumor from malignant tumor and H&D, while CA 15-3 can distinguish malignant tumor from H&D.
Investigating modes of action of natural toxins and venoms frequently inspire new therapies. Namely, many toxins precisely target specific receptors or pathways in organisms. For example, glucagon-like peptide-1-based drugs to treat diabetes and obesity, like Ozempic, were developed based on a peptide toxin from the venom of lizard Gila monster. In the venom of the nose-horned viper, we discovered and characterized the protein VaaSPH-1, which strongly inhibits blood coagulation via the intrinsic pathway. All current therapies for the prevention of venous thrombosis carry a high risk of severe bleeding as a side effect. Although numerous efforts have been made to improve treatment, no major breakthroughs have yet been achieved. The structure and mode of action of VaaSPH-1 are unique, making it a promising basis for the development of a safer anticoagulant drug for the treatment of venous thromboembolism that includes deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. Here, we describe our strategy for the development of innovative low molecular mass anticoagulant based on the structure of VaaSPH-1. The most promising candidate molecules are already in the process of patent protection. Protein iz strupa modrasa obeta razvoj inovativnega zdravila za zdravljenje venske trombembolije Izvleček: Preučevanje načinov delovanja naravnih toksinov in strupov pogosto navdahne razvoj novih načinov zdravljenja. Številni toksini namreč zelo natančno prizadenejo specifične receptorje ali signalne poti v organizmih. Na primer učinkovine homologne glukagonu podobnemu peptidu-1 za zdravljenje sladkorne bolezni in debelosti, kot je Ozempic, so bile razvite na osnovi peptidnega toksina iz strupa kuščarja gilske pošasti (Gila monster). V strupu modrasa smo odkrili in opisali protein VaaSPH-1, ki močno zavira strjevanje krvi po intrinzični poti. Vse trenutno dostopne terapije za preprečevanje venske tromboze so tvegane za pojav hudih krvavitev kot stranskega učinka. Kljub številnim prizadevanjem za izboljšanje zdravljenja te patologije večjega preboja še ni bilo. Struktura in način delovanja VaaSPH-1 sta edinstveni, zato ta molekula predstavlja obetavno osnovo za razvoj varnejše antikoagulantne učinkovine za zdravljenje venske trombembolije, ki vključuje trombozo globokih ven in pljučno embolijo. V članku je opisana strategija razvoja inovativnega nizkomolekularnega antikoagulanta na osnovi strukture VaaSPH-1. Najobetavnejše kandidatne molekule so že v postopku pridobivanja patentne zaščite. Ključne besede: kačji strup; hemostaza; inhibitor intrinzične tenaze; antagonist FIXa; antikoagulant; venska tromboza
Mouse models are frequently used in research of oesophageal carcinoma, one of the most prevalent and deadly cancers of the world. Surgical mouse models have been described in a variety of strains and stocks, but the distinct anatomy has not been evaluated before. This is crucial for the investigation of malignant fistulas to the airways, which primarily occur in the mid-oesophagus and within 20 millimetres to the tracheal bifurcation and severely limit survival. We therefore investigated oesophageal and tracheal lengths and their relationship to age, bodyweight, and body length in Crl:CD1(ICR) mice. Using 177 mice, based on an a-priori power-analysis, we found a mean oesophageal length of 38.9 millimetres (standard deviation 4.8) and a mean tracheal length of 16.1 millimetres (standard deviation 1.9). This resulted in a position of the carina relative to the oesophagus at 42% of the oesophageal length. Only body length had a statistically significant association to oesophageal length (t=9.56, P<0.001) in a multivariable regression with an adjusted R² of 0.53, but not age (t=1.53, P=0.13) or bodyweight (t=1.05, P=0.3). All three parameters age (t=2.87, P=0.005), bodyweight (t=3.02, P=0.003), and body length (t=2.7, P=0.008) were associated to tracheal length, but with a relevantly lower adjusted R² of 0.4. Unlike in rats, where it is in the proximal oesophagus, the tracheal bifurcation is in the mid-oesophagus in mice. The relationship of oesophageal and tracheal length to body length might improve standardisation in surgical mouse models and thereby increase their reproducibility.
A two-year-old 235 g female pet rat (Rattus norvegicus) was presented with weight loss and dyspnoea. Clinical findings included cachexia, chromodacryorrhoea, cyanotic mucous membranes, severe dyspnoea and bronchovesicular wheezes. Thoracic radiographs showed a mixed interstitial-alveolar pattern with cardiac displacement. Rat thoracic ultrasound revealed multiple nodular lesions, abnormal curtain signs. Based on the diagnostic imaging the diagnosis was established as abscessing pneumonia. The animal tested seropositive for Mycoplasma pulmonis, Filobacterium rodentium, rat theilovirus, and Pneumocystis carinii, whereas it was seronegative for rat coronavirus (RCV) and Sendai virus. Bacteriological examination of the bronchoalveolar lavage showed the presence of Bordetella bronchiseptica, Staphylococcus aureus and Acinetobacter baumanni, whereas lung tissue culture showed the presence of Acinetobacter pittii, and Staphylococcus aureus. Due to poor prognosis, euthanasia was elected. Necropsy, histopathology and bacteriology confirmed chronic interstitial lung abscessation and pyogranulomatous bronchopneumonia. In the presented case, the final diagnosis was chronic interstitial pneumonia and pyogranulomatous bronchopneumonia caused by M. pulmonis, P. carinii, S. aureus, and A. pittii. The recommended optimal diagnostic work-up for respiratory disease includes clinical examination, lung ultrasound, thoracic radiography, haematological analysis and bronchoalveolar lavage. In this case, lung ultrasound, particularly due to the small body size of the animal, proved to be a quick diagnostic method and compared with radiography, a tool with better diagnostic and prognostic outcomes. Therefore, lung ultrasonography should be part of the diagnostic work-up for thoracic pathologies, especially when high-resolution computed tomography imaging is not possible. Pathogen identification should include bacteriology as well as PCR testing. Precise pathogen analysis, together with antibiotic sensitivity testing, helps the practitioner choose the optimal antibiotic and supportive care, following guidelines for the prevention of antimicrobial resistance.
The pancreas is a very important organ in all mammals including birds, which is involved in digestion and metabolism, yet little is known about structural differences between male and female birds. Forty adult (20 males and 20 females) Japanese quails (Coturnix coturnix japonica) were used to analyze the morphometrical and histological differences between the pancreatic lobes. The gross anatomical results showed that both sexes have four lobes: dorsal, ventral, third, and small splenic lobe. Morphometric analysis revealed that the dorsal lobe was significantly heavier and wider in females than in males, suggesting possible sex-linked metabolic adaptations while differences in the dimensions of the ventral and third lobes were not significant. The exocrine tissue showed no differences between males and females, maintaining a consistent structure similar to other birds. However, the endocrine portion, particularly the number of islets of Langerhans, revealed sex-specific differences where females had significantly more islets in the dorsal lobe than the males, whereas males had slightly more but not significantly higher number of islets in the ventral lobe than females. Additionally, the pancreatic ductal system exhibited similar structural features in both sexes, starting from centroacinar cells to the main pancreatic duct with evidence of mucin production by the ductal epithelium observed throughout the ducts despite of the absence of the goblet cells. These findings highlight the variations in morphometry and histology of the quail pancreas between sexes, offering new perspectives on avian physiology and potential metabolic differences. This research lays the basis for further studies on the functional implications of these histomorphometrical distinctions in health and disease.
We performed a retrospective study of feline tumours diagnosed in Slovenia over a 21-year period (2000–2020), aiming to analyse their occurrence and related epidemiological features. We systematically reviewed histopathological reports from biopsies and necropsy specimens of cats submitted to the Institute of Pathology, Wild Animals, Fish and Bees at the University of Ljubljana Veterinary Faculty. Tumours were diagnosed in 901 cats, representing 28.99% of all feline submissions. The majority of tumours were malignant (741 tumours; 82.24%), while 17.76% (160 tumours) were benign. The most common tumour type was squamous cell carcinoma (20.53%), followed by lymphoma (17.20%), soft tissue sarcoma (12.76%), and mammary carcinoma (9.43%). The most commonly affected organ systems were the skin and subcutaneous tissues (44.40% of all tumours), the oral cavity (10.88%), and the mammary gland (10.54%). Tumours were more frequently found in female cats (553 tumours; 61.38%) than in male cats (348 tumours; 38.62%) and were most common in cats aged 10 to 12 years. Our findings are largely comparable with those of other similar studies.
The study case consisted of a 2-year-old male Jack Russell mixed breed dog with a delayed wound due to snake bite. The necrosis detected on clinical examination in the area starting from the left maxillary and mandibular canine teeth level to the anterior part of the ear base, the upper and lower lips including the left maxillary and mandibular teeth, and the cheek skin, with tissue loss. In the blood sample collected, platelets were recorded at 44 (x109 /L); however, the analysis of PRP revealed an approximately sixfold rise, with platelet levels reaching 240 (x109 /L). During the first 15 days, medical treatment was used to prepare the wound for surgery. Caudal Auricular Axial Pattern Flap technique was used in the first operation, and Pedicle Advancement Flap technique was used in the second operation. After both operations, dressings with ointments and systemic treatment continued. At the end of first operation, as a result of the large donor tissue area and the resulting inadequate nutrition and the mechanical irritation created by the patient's tongue, tissue rejection and necrosis occurred at the tip of the flap applied to the lower jaw at the level of the mandibulary canine tooth, leading to loss of flap tissue. Therefore, to prevent tissue necrosis, accelerate flap acceptance and ensure flap vitality, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) was applied one week postoperatively. It was concluded that PRP is a usefull method that accelerate angiogenesis, epithelialization, acceptance of the flap and to prevent flap necrosis.
Ovarian tumors are considered rare in dogs but pose a diagnostic challenge, requiring oncological expertise to establish diagnosis and accurate treatment. Diagnostic imaging is crucial to cancer diagnosis and treatment follow-up but, as in Medicine, this service was impacted by quarantine imposed by COVID-19 pandemic. This report aimed to describe a senior canine patient diagnosed with ovarian adenocarcinoma in a Brazilian country town during COVID-19 lockdown, evaluating the decision-making process in the absence of a veterinary oncology specialist, complicated by pandemic restrictions. A 15-year-old, nonspecific breed, intact bitch presented apathy and emesis. Abdominal palpation revealed increased epigastric volume. Ultrasonography suggested tumoral mass of unknown origin. Exploratory laparotomy was performed and a unilateral ovarian mass was removed. Patient recovered well from surgery. Histopathological evaluation revealed ovarian adenocarcinoma with lymphatic vascular invasion. No further treatment was indicated. Semesterly revisions were scheduled but metastasis developed in less than a year, after first revision. By this time, thoracic radiography was unavailable in owner’s town, impairing metastasis screening and prognosis. Chemotherapy was offered only after metastasis detection but was declined by the owner. Patient was lost in follow-up. This present case illustrates the importance of a prompt diagnosis and suitable treatment for ovarian cancer-bearing patients based on veterinary oncology expertise. It also emphasizes how pandemic lockdown prejudicated imaging exam availability, especially in country towns, similar to what was observed in human patients, reflecting an undeniable One Health issue.
In our research, we were interested in the presence of changes in the biochemical profile of the blood serum of broiler chickens under the influence of nanoparticles of gadolinium orthovanadate (NP GdVO4:Eu3+), lanthanum orthovanadate (NP LaVO4:Eu3+) and their mixture in therapeutic doses, which were established by us in previous studies on white rats. Day-old broiler chickens of the Cobb 500 cross (n=150) were used as the object of study. Chickens of the experimental group I received NP GdVO4:Eu3+ for 10 days at a dose of 0.2 mg/L of drinking water, experimental group II – NP LaVO4:Eu3+ at a dose of 0.2 mg/L of drinking water, experimental group III – NP GdVO4:Eu3+ and NP LaVO4:Eu3+ at a dose of 0.2 mg/L of drinking water (on average, chickens received 0.09 (0.13-0.05) mg/kg body weight of NP) and chickens of the experimental group IV received with water the veterinary vitamin drug Devivit Complex to compare the antioxidant effect at a dose of 0.3 ml/L of drinking water, chickens of the control group received drinking water without additives. After 10 days, NP administration was stopped and the chickens were observed for another 5 days. The administration of these nanoparticles to broiler chickens for 10 days was found to lead to a decrease in lipid metabolism (total cholesterol and triglycerides), protein metabolism (uric acid) and lipid peroxidation (diene conjugates and malondialdehyde) against the background of activation of carbohydrate metabolism (increased glucose concentration) and activity of hepatospecific enzymes (alanine and aspartate aminotransferases) with a prolonged effect after discontinuation of administration. The data obtained show that rare earth element orthovanadates nanoparticles have antioxidant properties. These nanoparticles are promising candidates for use in feed additives and veterinary drugs with an adaptogenic effect. Spremembe biokemičnih označevalcev pri pitovnih piščancih, izpostavljenih nanodelcem gadolinijevega in lantanovega ortovanadata Izvleček: V raziskavi nas je zanimala prisotnost sprememb v biokemičnem profilu krvnega seruma piščancev brojlerjev pod vplivom nanodelcev gadolinijevega ortovanadata (NP GdVO4:Eu3+), lantanovega ortovanadata (NP LaVO4:Eu3+) in njihove mešanice v terapevtskih odmerkih, ki smo jih ugotovili v prejšnjih študijah na belih podganah. Raziskava je bila izvedena na enodnevnih brojlerjih Cobb 500 cross (n = 150). Piščanci eksperimentalne skupine I so 10 dni prejemali NP GdVO4:Eu3+ v odmerku 0,2 mg/l pitne vode, piščanci eksperimentalne skupine II – NP LaVO4:Eu3+ v odmerku 0,2 mg/l pitne vode, piščanci eksperimentalne skupine III pa NP GdVO4:Eu3+ in NP LaVO4:Eu3+ v odmerku 0,2 mg/l pitne vode (v povprečju so piščanci prejemali 0,09 (0,13–0,05) mg/kg telesne mase NP). Piščanci poskusne skupine IV so z vodo prejemali veterinarski vitaminski pripravek Devivit Complex v odmerku 0,3 ml/l pitne vode za primerjavo antioksidativnega učinka, piščanci kontrolne skupine pa pitno vodo brez dodatkov. Po 10 dneh smo prenehali dajati NP in piščance opazovali še 5 dni. Ugotovili smo, da je 10-dnevno dajanje omenjenih nanodelcev piščancem brojlerjem povzročilo zmanjšanje presnove lipidov (skupnega holesterola in trigliceridov), presnove beljakovin (sečne kisline) in peroksidacije lipidov (dienskih konjugatov in malondialdehida) ob aktivaciji presnove ogljikovih hidratov (povečani koncentraciji glukoze) in aktivnosti hepatospecifičnih encimov (alanina in aspartat aminotransferaze) s podaljšanim učinkom po prekinitvi dajanja. Pridobljeni podatki kažejo, da imajo nanodelci ortovanadatov redkih zemeljskih elementov antioksidativne lastnosti, zato so obetavni kandidati za uporabo v krmnih dodatkih in veterinarskih zdravilih z adaptogenim vplivom. Ključne besede: nanodelci gadolinijevega ortovanadata; nanodelci lantanovega ortovanadata; biokemični označevalci; piščanci brojlerji; krvni serum
Campylobacter is a constant concern in ensuring food safety, as it is one of the most common pathogens in food. The main source of Campylobacter species in food is poultry meat, and the primary production of this meat is a critical point where measures need to be taken to reduce its presence in the food chain. Therefore, poultry slaughterhouses are recognized as places where it is necessary to implement measures to control and reduce the number of Campylobacter spp. Food business operators are obliged to ensure greater hygiene on the slaughter line, through the inspection of equipment for each step of slaughter and the application of regular cleaning protocols. Continuous monitoring of the presence and abundance of Campylobacter spp. on the slaughter line provides data on the validity of hygiene control measures in the slaughterhouse, as well as the data needed to assess the microbiological risk in poultry meat. Monitoring the presence of Campylobacter spp. in poultry slaughterhouses is a basic activity that is necessary for taking measures to reduce contamination, improve microbiological safety in poultry processing and thus improve the food safety system as a whole. This review aims to highlight the importance of investigating the prevalence of Campylobacter spp. in poultry slaughterhouses, but also the importance of applying measures to prevent and control this pathogen both on farms and in slaughterhouses. These measures are necessary to minimize the presence and transmission of Campylobacter in poultry, thereby reducing the risk of foodborne diseases.
Rare Earth Elements (REE), whose usage areas are increasing day by day, are increasing in the amount of mixing with the environment, causing changes in antioxidant enzyme activities by causing oxidative stress in living organisms. In this study, it was aimed to examine the oxidative stress responses induced by the mixture of 4 different REEs (Lanthanum, gadolinium, Lanthanum, Praseodymium) in Dreissena polymorpha. For this purpose, sublethal concentration values were determined by literature review. Experimental application was carried out within 24 and 96 hours. In the analyzes performed to determine biomarker responses, samples taken from living organisms were weighed and homogenization processes were performed for the analysis of samples taken from the experimental groups, including the control group. After homogenization, samples were centrifuged at 4.000 rpm for 15 minutes. Supernatants were kept at -86 °C until measurements were made. Superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities, and glutathione (GSH) and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) levels were determined using ELISA kits. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS. One-way ANOVA (Duncan’s multiple range test; p < 0.05) was used for comparison of measured parameters among groups. As a result of the application, a decrease in CAT activity and GSH level and an increase in TBARS levels were observed after 96 hours compared to the control group, while no statistically significant difference was detected in SOD and GPx activities.
A 4-year-old, male, intact African pygmy hedgehog was presented at the clinic with a 2-day history of weakness. Clinical examination revealed a large fluid-like mass, suspected to be the urinary bladder. The surveying ultrasound confirmed an enlarged urinary bladder with anechoic content and a small amount of floating echoic material. The patient was not able to urinate nor was it possible to place an urinary catheter. After three days he continued to be non-responding to any medical approach. The patient was prepared for explorative surgery, during which he collapsed and was declared deceased. The following autopsy revealed an extramural urethral obstruction caused by the enlarged seminal vesicle glands. The histology examination confirmed hyperplasia of the glandular epithelial cells, with focal squamous metaplasia. A focal mild perivascular inflammatory infiltrate was also present, formed mainly by lymphocytes and plasma cells with isolated macrophages and admixtures of eosinophilic granulocytes.
The study evaluated the effects of light-emitting diode (LED) light colour and stocking density on the hematological parameters, oxidative metabolism, and organ weights of quails. Several key management factors that influence the welfare of broilers include light color and stocking density. For this reason, this study aimed to reveal the effect of different light colors and stocking densities on the hematological and oxidative stress parameters in Japanese quails. For this purpose, levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione (GSH) were measured in quails subjected to different light colors and stocking densities, using commercially available ELISA kits. In this study, 720 1-day-old mixed-sex Japanese quails (Coturnix coturnix japonica) were randomly assigned to one of six treatments, each having four duplicates of 30 birds. The experiment was designed as a 3 x 2 factorial arrangement of treatments, with three LED light colours (white, blue, and green) and two stocking densities (low = 200 cm2/bird and high = 100 cm2/bird). At 42 days of age, 20 quails from each treatment group were randomly selected for some hematological parameter analysis. According to the results obtained, the heterophile/lymphocyte (H/L) ratio was significantly higher in the white LED light colour treatments. However, the effects of stocking density on the H/L ratio were not significant. The oxidative stress indicator MDA was unaffected by the light colour, however, the high stocking density drastically reduced liver CAT and GSH activities. The heart weight was lower in the quail subjected to blue LED light. The heart and liver organ weights were not affected by stocking density. In conclusion, whereas white LED light increases the H/L ratio and the stress situation, it does not affect the oxidative stress indicators. These findings highlighted the need to identify optimum LED light colours for quails in commercial production settings in order to increase flock welfare. More research is needed to understand the effects and find the best colour of LED light for quails at varied stocking densities.
The objective of this study is to assess the morphological and physiological alterations in the heart resulting from four distinct anesthesia combinations, with midazolam, medetomidine, and dexmedetomidine applied as preanesthetics in White New Zealand rabbits. For the study, a total of 32 white New Zealand rabbits were divided into four different groups. The vertebral heart score was measured in rabbits before (T0) and at 5 (T5), 10 (T10), 30 (T30), 50 (T50) and 70 (T70) minutes during the experiment. Concurrently, measurements were taken for the electrocardiographic parameters, all at consistent time intervals. Heart frequency, respiratory rate, rectal temperature, mean arterial pressure and peripheral blood oxygen saturation were measured for a total of 60 minutes with 5 minutes intervals before and during preanesthesia. The vertebral heart score changed in all groups except the Mid+Med group. In the electrocardiographic assessment, in the Mid+Med, Deks, and Mid+Deks groups, an extension in the duration of the QRS wave and QT interval was observed, while no significant change was detected in the durations of the PR interval and T wave. Conversely, in the Me group, a distinct prolongation was observed in the duration of the P wave. Peripheral blood oxygen saturation values increased, heart frequency, mean arterial pressure and rectal temperature parameters decreased in entire groups. Following a thorough analysis of all the data in this study,it was observed that the morphological and physiological effects on the heart induced by the Mid+Med group resulted in less pronounced changes compared to the other groups. Raziskava učinkov različnih kombinacij anestezije na kardiovaskularne parametre pri belih novozelandskih kuncih Izvleček: Cilj te študije je bil ovrednotiti morfološke in fiziološke spremembe srca, nastale zaradi štirih različnih kombinacij anestezije, pri čemer so bili kot sedativi uporabljeni midazolam, medetomidin in dexmedetomidin pri belih novozelandskih kuncih. V študiji smo 32 živali razdelili v štiri različne skupine. Vrednost vertebralnega srčnega indeksa je bila merjena pri zajcih pred poskusom (T0) in po 5 (T5), 10 (T10), 30 (T30), 50 (T50) in 70 (T70) minutah med poskusom. Hkrati so bile v enakih časovnih intervalih opravljene meritve elektrokardiografskih parametrov. Srčno frekvenco, frekvenco dihanja, rektalno temperaturo, srednji arterijski tlak in nasičenost periferne krvi s kisikom smo merili skupaj 60 minut, s 5-minutnimi presledki pred in med sedacijo. Vrednost vertebralnega srčnega indeksa se je spremenila v vseh skupinah,razen v skupini Mid+Med. Pri elektrokardiografski oceni smo v skupinah Mid+Med, Dex in Mid+Dex opazili podaljšanjetrajanja vala QRS in intervala QT, medtem ko pri trajanju intervala PR in vala T nismo zaznali bistvenih sprememb. Nasprotno smo v skupini Me opazili izrazito podaljšanje trajanja vala P. Vrednosti nasičenosti periferne krvi s kisikomso se povečale, srčna frekvenca, srednji arterijski tlak in parametri rektalne temperature so se v vseh skupinah znižali.Po temeljiti analizi vseh podatkov v tej študiji je bilo ugotovljeno, da so morfološki in fiziološki učinki na srce, zaznani vskupini Mid+Med, povzročili manj izrazite spremembe v primerjavi z drugimi skupinami. Ključne besede: elektrokardiografija; radiografija; kunec; VHS
Comparative anatomy, the study of structural similarities and differences between animals and humans, remains one of the oldest and most enduring foundations of veterinary and medical science. From the dissections of Aristotle, Galen, and Vesalius through to the anatomical theatres and museums of the 19th century and beyond, comparative examination has shaped our understanding of the living world. It is no coincidence that the very roots of biology, medicine, and veterinary science are deeply embedded in this discipline. Examining the horse’s limb, the ruminant stomach, or the avian lung not only satisfies scientific curiosity but also provides veterinarians with essential knowledge for diagnosis, surgery, and disease prevention, while at the same time revealing important parallels with human medicine, and vice versa. Ko telo spregovori: primerjalna anatomija kot povezovalna znanost v izobraževanju, raziskovanju in okviru koncepta Eno zdravje Primerjalna anatomija, veda o strukturnih podobnostih in razlikah med živalmi in človekom, ostaja ena najstarejših in najtrdnejših osnov veterinarske in medicinske znanosti. Od disekcij Aristotela, Galena in Vesalija do anatomskih gledališč in muzejev 19. stoletja ter kasneje je primerjalno proučevanje oblikovalo naše razumevanje živega sveta Ni naključje, da so prav v tej disciplini korenine biologije, medicine in veterinarske znanosti. Proučevanje okončine konja, želodca prežvekovalcev ali pljuč ptic ne zadovoljuje le znanstvene radovednosti, temveč veterinarjem zagotavlja temeljno znanje za diagnostiko, kirurgijo in preprečevanje bolezni, hkrati pa razkriva pomembne vzporednice s človeško medicino in obratno. Ključne besede: primerjalna anatomija; izobraževanje; raziskovanje; eno zdravje
