Journal of Veterinary Research Feed

Hybrid QuEChERS–micro-scale solid-phase extraction for LC-MS/MS determination of chloramphenicol in milk and muscle

Fri, 16 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

IntroductionThe determination of chloramphenicol (CAP) in milk and food-animal muscle is analytically challenging because of matrix complexity and matrix effects in LC-MS/MS analysis.Material and MethodsA hybrid sample-preparation method combining QuEChERS extraction with micro-scale solid-phase extraction (MSPE) using C18P-PVDF microspin filters was developed for the determination of CAP in these matrices. The method was validated in accordance with European Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2021/808. Matrix effects and the influence of membrane type (PVDF, nylon or PTFE) were evaluated.ResultsThe method demonstrated satisfactory analytical performance, with apparent recoveries ranging from 97.5% to 101.8%, repeatability below 10% and detection capability (CCβ) established at 0.12 µg kg−1 for both matrices. Matrix-effect values ranged from 91.8% to 111.2% for milk and from 89.1% to 112.3% for muscle. The best clean-up performance was given by PVDF membranes, which contributed to a stable analytical response during MSPE clean-up.ConclusionThe proposed hybrid method provides effective clean-up and satisfactory control of analytical interferences without extensive additional clean-up procedures, making it suitable for routine determination of CAP in milk and muscle matrices.

The impact of dried sea buckthorn (Elaeagnus rhamnoides (L.) A. Nelson) berries versus metformin administration on the skeletal system in Zucker diabetic fatty rats

Fri, 16 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

IntroductionType 2 diabetes is associated with compromised bone quality. Positive effects of sea buckthorn (SB, Elaeagnus rhamnoides (L.) A. Nelson) berry extract on bone biomarkers have been found in vitro, suggesting its therapeutic potential. This study provides the first evidence on the impact of dried SB berries versus metformin (MET) administration on the skeletal system of the Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) rat, an animal model of type 2 diabetes.Material and MethodsA total of 30 male ZDF rats (n = 6 per group) were included in the study and randomly assigned to five experimental groups: L (untreated and lean), D (untreated and obese), DM (obese and treated with 150 mg/kg body weight (b.w.)/day of MET), DS1 (obese and treated with 250 mg/kg b.w./day of SB), and DS2 (obese and treated with 500 mg/kg b.w./day of SB). Treatment lasted four months. Biochemical and macroscopic analyses, micro-computed tomography and mechanical testing were performed.ResultsThe rats from group D had compromised femoral bone microstructure compared with group L (P-value < 0.05) as well as impaired glucose, lipid and liver profiles. Administration of MET (group DM) resulted not only in significant reductions in a bone resorption marker (C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen) but also in significant increases in cortical and trabecular bone volume fraction and trabecular thickness versus group D (P-value < 0.05). The level of AST, a liver injury marker, was also lower. Supplementation with SB (group DS1) only lowered liver injury markers (AST and ALT) (P-value < 0.05).ConclusionAdministration of dried SB berries at the doses used in this study did not improve bone microstructure or bone turnover markers. Therefore, SB supplementation did not achieve the therapeutic effects of MET in the context of diabetic bone disease, likely because of its limited bioavailability, degradation of its bioactive metabolites during the hot-air drying process and/or insufficiency of dosage.

Earwax cortisol in bovines: biological and seasonal influences

Wed, 14 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

IntroductionAccurate stress assessment in animals requires reliable biomarkers, yet the impact of intrinsic (sex and age) and extrinsic (seasonal) factors on earwax cortisol concentrations (ECCs) has not been thoroughly studied. Therefore, the effects of sex, age and seasonal climate on ECC were investigated in Hanwoo cattle (Bos taurus coreanae).Material and MethodsMonthly earwax samples were collected from the left ear canal of 22 individual cattle. These comprised 7 males and 15 females as a cohort of 19 animals in March 2022 with 3 additional calves recruited through the study period up to August 2022. Their overall mean age was 32.7 ± 19.6 months. Earwax cortisol was extracted using methanol and quantified by a validated enzyme immunoassay. Based on the temperature-humidity index (THI), conditions were classified as cold stress (THI < 38), no stress (THI 38–72) or heat stress (THI > 72). Months were grouped into cool and warm seasons.ResultsEarwax cortisol concentrations were higher in females than males (30.3 vs 20.6 pg/mg; P-value = 0.0015) and differed by THI category (P-value = 0.0074), peaking in females when the THI was 77 (July). Females older than 25 months had higher ECC than age-matched males (31.4 vs 15.4 pg/mg; P-value = 0.0036). Season alone did not affect ECC (P-value = 0.4943), although females maintained higher ECCs than males in the cool season (P-value = 0.0350). In females, the ECC was positively associated with age (β = 0.113 pg/mg/month by linear regression; P-value = 0.0121), but not in males.ConclusionSex is the primary influence on ECC, age and environmental conditions being lesser ones. Both intrinsic biological and extrinsic environmental factors should be considered when interpreting chronic stress in bovines.

Bacterial isolates and antimicrobial susceptibility patterns in tracheal wash samples from horses with equine asthma in Poland

Sat, 26 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

IntroductionEquine asthma (EA) is a chronic inflammatory lower-airway disease. Bacterial growth from tracheal wash (TW) may occur in samples from horses with EA, but may represent colonisation rather than active infection. This study described cultivable bacterial isolates recovered from TW samples from horses with EA in Poland and assessed their antimicrobial susceptibility patterns and association with month/season of sampling and airway neutrophil percentage.Material and MethodsIn total, 165 adult horses diagnosed with EA according to American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine–based criteria underwent endoscopy, TW sampling with a double-guarded catheter and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid cytology. The samples were cultured conventionally and their bacterial content identified with MALDI-TOF MS; bacteria were tested for antimicrobial susceptibility. Associations between culture results and categorical variables were analysed using chi-squared/Fisher-type tests with Monte Carlo simulation where appropriate; effect size was reported as Cramer’s V.ResultsCulture results were positive in 117/165 horses’ samples (70.9%), and bacteria were isolated from 116/165 (70.3%). The most frequently recovered bacteria were Streptococcus equi subsp. zooepidemicus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Klebsiella pneumoniae. Culture positivity was not associated with month or season of sampling, whereas analysis of bacterial genus by month suggested a modest association (χ2 = 100.72, degrees of freedom = 77, P-value = 0.036; Cramer’s V = 0.305). No clear association was observed with airway neutrophil percentage. Antimicrobial susceptibility patterns varied by organism.ConclusionCultivable bacteria are frequently recovered from TW samples of horses with EA. Positive culture results should not be interpreted as evidence of bacterial infection without supporting clinical and cytological findings. Antimicrobial treatment, when clinically justified, should be guided by culture and susceptibility testing.

Innovative strategies on accelerating skin wound healing in dogs using chitosan-coated zinc oxide nanoparticles delivered by two different routes

Wed, 16 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

IntroductionZinc-oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) have shown promise for their antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and regenerative capabilities. Chitosan-coated metal-oxide NPs have higher solubility and bioactivity than uncoated ones, making them an effective biomaterial for medical uses. This study aimed to exploit the complimentary features of chitosan-coated ZnO NPs (CS/ZnO NPs) to overcome existing limits in wound care treatments. It delivered the nanoparticles by two key routes: subcutaneous (s/c) injection and topical (T) application.Material and MethodsFifteen dogs were divided into three groups (n = 5) as follows: a control group, a group treated with s/c injection of CS/ZnO NPs (25 ppm) once a week for two weeks and a group treated by daily T application of CS/ZnO NPs (25 ppm) for two weeks. Wounds were monitored grossly and microscopically at 0, 3, 7, 14 and 21 d post treatment. Blood was drawn before the first and after the last treatment for liver and kidney function biomarker and blood morphology evaluation.ResultsAdministration of CS/ZnO NPs either s/c or T accelerated wound closure without affecting liver or kidney function, but the s/c route caused a significant deterioration in HGB, HCT, RBC, WBC and PLT counts compared with the T route. Microscopic examination revealed improved epithelialisation, decreased inflammatory cell infiltration, greater collagen deposition and superior tissue organisation in wounds treated with CS/ZnO NPs over time, confirmed by increasing vascular endothelial growth factor and α-smooth muscle actin immunoexpression. The nanoparticles also boosted the transcript levels of the VEGFA (vascular endothelial growth factor A) and TNFα genes at all time points.ConclusionThis study demonstrates the benefits of nanotechnology in wound care and emphasises the need for additional research to enhance nanoparticle formulations for therapeutic applications.

Effects of different delivery forms of the novel Bacillus subtilis strain 87Y on redox status and liver function in peri-weaning piglets

Wed, 16 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

IntroductionWeaning is a critical stage in piglet rearing, and dietary strategies are needed to support metabolic balance and oxidative resilience during the peri-weaning period.Material and MethodsA total of 384 Yorkshire × Danish Landrace piglets at 28 days old were allocated to four groups: positive controls with feed additives including ZnO (PC), negative controls without additives (NC), NC + 8% fermented rapeseed meal (FR) and NC + 0.1% Bacillus subtilis 87Y (BS). Blood was collected from 24 males (one per replicate) for redox and biochemical analyses, and liver and small intestine samples were collected post mortem for oxidative marker assessment and histopathology.ResultsCompared with NC, FR and BS supplementation increased antioxidant defence (catalase, superoxide dismutase and glutathione) and reduced lipid peroxidation markers (malondialdehyde and lipid hydroperoxides) in plasma and tissues; changes were accompanied by favourable shifts in selected lipid metabolism indices and liver enzyme activities. The pure probiotic form of Bacillus subtilis was not inferior to the fermented matrix and, for selected parameters, produced an effect stronger than that observed in the PC diet.ConclusionBacillus subtilis 87Y improved redox status and supported liver function in peri-weaning piglets, with efficacy largely independent of the delivery form, indicating potential as a feed additive.

Bioinformatic approaches to pig gut phagobiome (phageome) analysis: tools, applications, and current state of research

Wed, 16 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The pig intestine contains a diverse bacteriophage community that helps regulate the gut microbiome and host health. Growing interest in phage therapy reflects its potential as a cost-effective, targeted approach to modulating microbial communities and treating diseases, particularly those involving antibiotic-resistant bacteria. This review proposes an alternative operational definition of the phagobiome that integrates the phageome with host responses and summarises current knowledge of swine gut phages. It includes well-studied Caudoviricetes as well as less abundant groups such as crAss-like phages and jumbo phages carrying clustered, regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat spacers. Differences across pig breeds and age groups are outlined, highlighting data gaps. Current knowledge of gut phages and their interactions with the host remains limited, prompting the development of new bioinformatic tools. The paper also critically compares bioinformatic tools for phageome analysis, supporting method selection and future research on core phages shared within pig populations and their potential applications.

Occurrence of Serratia marcescens in bovine intramammary infections: identification and antimicrobial susceptibility in a dairy herd

Thu, 27 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

IntroductionMastitis is one of the most economically significant diseases in dairy cattle, and its causation by atypical environmental pathogens is gaining attention. The study investigated the involvement of Serratia marcescens in intramammary infections occurring in a dairy herd and evaluated the bacterium’s antimicrobial resistance profile.Material and MethodsBetween February 2024 and June 2025, 481 quarter-milk samples collected from cows on a dairy farm in eastern Poland were subjected to routine bacteriological examination. Isolates were identified by biochemical, proteomic and molecular methods and tested for antimicrobial susceptibility by automated biochemical analysis.ResultsSerratia marcescens was isolated from the milk samples of 10 cows during different sampling periods. All isolates were consistently identified as S. marcescens, confirming the reliability of the applied comprehensive approach. Molecular analyses demonstrated high sequence similarity with reference strains. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing revealed uniform resistance to amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, cefuroxime, colistin and tigecycline.ConclusionSerratia marcescens should be considered a relevant opportunistic pathogen in dairies, capable of causing sporadic or epidemic mastitis episodes. The findings are consistent with previous reports linking S. marcescens mastitis to environmental reservoirs and milking equipment contamination. Comprehensive diagnostic strategies, strict hygiene practices and targeted herd management measures are important to prevent and control mastitis caused by uncommon environmental pathogens.

Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry analysis of pyrrolizidine alkaloids in Polish honey

Thu, 27 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

IntroductionPyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) are among the most widespread naturally occurring toxins. Since they are primarily produced by flowering plants, there is a high likelihood of their transfer into honey. Given the toxic properties of PAs, their presence in honey can significantly compromise the safety of the product. Therefore, monitoring the occurrence of PAs in honey is essential.Material and MethodsA total of 65 honey samples collected in Poland were analysed for the presence of 42 PAs. The samples included multifloral, acacia, rapeseed and forest honeys. Pyrrolizidine alkaloids were quantified using liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS).ResultsQuantifiable amounts of PAs were detected in 10 of the honey samples. At least one of the monitored PAs was present in 39 samples, although most were below the method’s limit of quantification. The highest concentration observed was 46.9 μg/kg.ConclusionA newly validated LC-MS/MS method was successfully applied to determine PAs in honey from Poland. Most of the analysed samples were free of the monitored PAs, confirming the general safety of Polish honey.

Between forest and farmland: serological evidence of exposure to Aujeszky’s disease virus, Coxiella burnetii and Chlamydia spp. in wild boars in Poland

Mon, 24 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

IntroductionThis study assessed the seroprevalence of Aujeszky’s disease virus (ADV), Coxiella burnetii and Chlamydia spp. in wild boars in Poland.Material and MethodsA total of 1,094 serum samples were tested. Antibodies against ADV were detected by ELISA, whereas Chlamydia spp. and C. burnetii were detected using the complement fixation test (CFT). For C. burnetii, phase I and phase II antibodies were assessed by CFT to differentiate between long-term and recent exposure. Multiple correspondence analysis was performed to evaluate associations between seropositivity, geographical origin and wild boar population density. Serological data were integrated with environmental factors, including African swine fever (ASF) occurrence, population density and forest cover, and were visualised spatially.ResultsAntibodies against ADV were detected in 455 samples (41.6%), those against Chlamydia spp. in 70 (6.4%) and antibodies against phase-I C. burnetii in 37 (3.4%) and phase-II in 30 (2.7%). Associations were observed between antibody presence, geographical location, wild boar density, pathogen co-occurrence and ASF-related environmental variables.ConclusionWild boars in Poland show serological evidence of exposure to ADV, Chlamydia spp. and C. burnetii, supporting their role as sentinels at the wildlife–livestock interface.

First detection and phylogenetic analysis of porcine parainfluenza virus 1 and swine orthopneumovirus in swine reared on commercial farms in Serbia

Mon, 24 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

IntroductionPorcine parainfluenza virus 1 (PPIV1) and swine orthopneumovirus (SOV) are recently discovered respiratory viruses of swine. Data on their geographic distribution and genetic diversity are scarce. This study investigated the presence of these viruses in diseased pigs on commercial farms in Serbia and also the phylogenetic characteristics of the detected strains.Material and MethodsA total of 131 samples were collected during passive surveillance of swine influenza in pigs from 10 commercial farms. All samples were screened by real-time RT-PCR for swine influenza A virus (SIV) and PPIV1, and 77 of them were tested for SOV. Positive samples were further subjected to conventional RT-PCR targeting the PPIV1 F and SOV G genes, sequencing, and phylogenetic analysis.ResultsFarm-level prevalence was 60% for SIV, 50% for PPIV1 and 10% for SOV. Overall, 27 samples were positive for SIV, 18 for PPIV1 and 2 for SOV. Co-circulation of two viruses was evident on four farms, and on one farm, all the tested viruses were detected. Phylogenetically, three Serbian PPIV1 strains clustered together with European and Asian strains, and SOV strains grouped with swine, murine and canine pneumoviruses, confirming their close evolutionary relationship.ConclusionThis is the first evidence of PPIV1 and SOV circulation on pig farms in Serbia. Even established phylogenetic patterns are consistent with those reported in Europe, expanded surveillance is needed to better define the prevalence and genetic diversity of these emerging respiratory viruses in Serbian pig populations.

Protective effects of cannabidiol against nephrotoxicity of ionophore coccidiostats in HEK-293 cells

Mon, 24 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

IntroductionVeterinary drug residues in the environment threaten public health and animal welfare. Ionophore coccidiostats (lasalocid (LAS), monensin (MON) and narasin (NAR)) are commonly used in animal production. Overdosing, errors in feed mixing or interactions with other drugs can cause nephrotoxicity in animals, which has also been observed in poisoned humans. The toxic effects of veterinary drugs may be mitigated by cannabidiol (CBD), known to be antioxidant and cytoprotective and expected to have a protective effect on kidney cells. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of CBD on cytotoxicity induced by ionophore coccidiostats in human embryonic kidney cells (HEK-293).Material and MethodsCells were exposed to LAS, MON and NAR, either alone or in combination with CBD. Cytotoxicity was assessed using mitochondrial activity, lysosomal activity, total protein content and membrane integrity assays. The action of combination of CBD and the coccidiostats was determined using interaction analysis.ResultsThe ionophores induced cytotoxicity dose-dependently. Lasalocid was the most toxic, significantly impairing mitochondrial function and membrane integrity at 1 µg/mL. Co-treatment with CBD significantly attenuated the drugs’ toxic effects. Predominantly, antagonistic effects were revealed, indicating a protective effect of CBD. However, an additive effect was observed at high concentrations of the LAS-CBD combination.ConclusionCannabidiol exerts a protective effect against coccidiostat nephrotoxicity in human renal cells. This finding suggests its modulation of cellular responses to ionophore-induced cytotoxicity, offering a basis for further in vivo studies on its potential.

Impact of copper deficiency in cows on immune system function in offspring: a study using lymphocyte immunophenotyping

Wed, 12 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

IntroductionCopper (Cu) deficiency is a common, often subclinical problem in dairy cattle herds that can adversely affect haematopoietic processes and immune function. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of hypocupraemia in cows on selected haematological parameters and identify the immunophenotype of calf lymphocytes.Material and MethodsThe study included Holstein–Friesian cows and their calves aged two to six weeks, which were divided into two groups: a hypocupraemic group (17 cows and 17 calves) and a normocupraemic group (18 cows and 18 calves). Haematological and biochemical analyses were performed, and lymphocyte subpopulations (CD4+, CD8+, CD21+ and major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II+ were determined by flow cytometry.ResultsCows with hypocupraemia exhibited reduced HGB and HCT values. Calves born to cows with Cu deficiency showed decreased erythrocyte indices, a reduced CD4+:CD8+ ratio and a lower percentage of CD21+ B lymphocytes and MHC class II+ lymphocytes, indicating impaired immune function. In these calves, the CD4+:CD8+ ratio was significantly lower compared to healthy cows and calves, suggesting an imbalance in T-lymphocyte subpopulations.ConclusionThe obtained results indicate that even moderate copper deficiency in pregnant cows may negatively influence the haematological and immunological status of their offspring. These findings underline the necessity of systematic monitoring of copper status in dairy herds in order to prevent subclinical deficiencies and their long-term consequences for calf health and immunity.

Breed-related and stage-related differences in the immune response to Staphylococcus aureus carriage in sheep during the periparturient period

Fri, 07 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

IntroductionStaphylococcus aureus is ubiquitous as a commensal bacterium and a frequent opportunistic pathogenic one in animals including livestock. The aim of this study was to analyse the expression levels of ovine cytokine genes and acute-phase proteins in response to the presence of S. aureus.Material and MethodsFour different anatomical swabs, milk and blood samples came from 50 ewes from the native Uhruska and Świniarka breeds. The Uhruska breed exhibits high fertility and meat performance and the Świniarka breed is considered a primitive breed. Isolation and identification of S. aureus, haematological analysis, and analysis of cytokine and acute phase protein gene expression levels were performed.ResultsStaphylococcus aureus strains were isolated from swabs and milk from sheep of both breeds. A significant increase in IL6 and Hp (haptoglobin) gene expression was observed in leucocytes in samples from Uhruska sheep in which the presence of S. aureus was detected.ConclusionThe expression level of selected cytokine and acute-phase protein genes have shown that even local carriage of S. aureus in small ruminants can lead to a systemic immune response, manifested by increased expression of IL6 and Hp genes in leucocytes.

Mycoplasma gallinarum infection associated with apparent Mycoplasma meleagridis seropositivity in breeder turkey flocks

Thu, 06 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

IntroductionMonitored EU-wide, mycoplasmosis is a significant poultry disease caused by bacteria of the genus Mycoplasma, among which M. gallisepticum, M. synoviae, M. meleagridis and M. iowae are of major importance. Infection can lead to clinical disease and economic losses. Serological assays can give false positive results because of antigenic cross-reactivity among Mycoplasma species. Molecular diagnostics provide greater specificity and reliability. This study investigated suspected cases of Mycoplasma meleagridis infection in turkeys and assessed whether the observed serological reactivity was by cross-reactive antibodies rather than a sign of M. meleagridis infection.Material and MethodsOne case in a breeder turkey flock was investigated during the rearing period, and another case in a similar flock was explored in the laying period. Both flocks had serology results positive for M. meleagridis. The rearing flock was monitored with ELISA, PCR and sequencing for extended time after a single positive result, whereas the laying flock was testing using rapid plate agglutination (RPA) in addition because mortality was higher and egg production lower. In both cases, swab and blood samples were taken to verify the initial serological findings and assess the potential presence of M. meleagridis.ResultsIn the breeding flock, ELISA detected a single positive reaction against M. meleagridis in one of three houses. However, a PCR did not confirm the presence of M. meleagridis DNA, although Mycoplasma spp. DNA was detected at low/inconclusive levels. In the laying flock, the RPA test gave several seropositive reactions against M. meleagridis, whereas a PCR did not confirm its presence. Microbiological culture, 16S rRNA PCR and Sanger sequencing identified M. gallinarum in both flocks.ConclusionThe results highlight the limited specificity of serological assays and the necessity of molecular confirmation for accurate diagnosis.

Porcine circovirus 4 status of domestic pigs and wild animals in Poland

Thu, 06 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

IntroductionGiven the threat that porcine circovirus (PCV) 2 and PCV3 pose to the pig industry, the epidemiology of emerging PCV4 warrants further investigation. Until 2023, PCV4 had only been confirmed in Asia, with the majority of reports originating from China. More recently, PCV4 DNA has also been detected in samples from Spain and the United States, indicating a potentially broader geographic distribution. Furthermore, PCV4 DNA has been identified in samples from other animal species. This study aimed to evaluate the presence of PCV4 in samples collected from domestic pigs, wild boars and wild ruminants in Poland using its Rep (replicase) gene.Material and MethodsA total of 474 serum samples from domestic pigs and 226 blood and internal organ samples (lymph nodes, spleen and lungs) from 20 wild boars, 33 fallow deer, 4 red deer and 6 roe deer were tested using qPCR to detect the presence of PCV4 DNA.ResultsNo PCV4 was detected in any of the samples.ConclusionThe presence of PCV4 in other populations or regions of Poland cannot be excluded. Further research is needed to monitor the epidemiological situation in the country, particularly in light of emerging reports confirming the presence of the virus in Europe.

Pericardial effusion as a manifestation of feline infectious peritonitis

Mon, 03 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

IntroductionFeline infectious peritonitis (FIP) is a fatal disease caused by feline coronavirus, most commonly associated with effusions in body cavities, while pericardial involvement remains rarely described.Material and MethodsA three-year clinical study (2021–2024) included 256 cats with PCR-confirmed effusive FIP, of which 37 presented fluid accumulation exclusively in the pericardial sac. Diagnosis was based on real-time PCR analysis of pericardial fluid, echocardiographic examination and measurement of serum N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) concentrations.ResultsMutant feline coronavirus RNA was detected in pericardial fluid samples from all cats, with threshold cycle values ranging from 22 to 26 and highly specific PCR amplification confirmed by consistent melting temperatures (81.0–81.2°C). Ultrasonography revealed pericardial effusion in all 37 cats, with cardiac tamponade observed in 27% of cases and significantly higher NT-proBNP concentrations in affected individuals. Statistical analyses showed no significant associations between breed, age or sex and the occurrence of pericardial effusion, cardiac tamponade or NT-proBNP serum concentrations.ConclusionPericardial effusion and cardiac tamponade may represent under-recognised manifestations of effusive FIP. Routine echocardiographic evaluation and molecular analysis of pericardial fluid should be considered in cats with suspected FIP and cardiopulmonary signs.

Morphohistometric evaluation of the embryological development of the heart in chicks

Mon, 27 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT

IntroductionThe aim of this study was to investigate the morphohistometric development of the chick heart at certain incubation periods using quantitative methods.Material and MethodsIn the study, the hearts of 24 Babcock White Leghorn chicks, six each from the 10th, 13th, 16th and 21st days of incubation, were used. The hearts were weighed, and their diameters were measured with a digital caliper. Paraffin blocks of heart tissue were then prepared, and serial sections were taken at 5 μm and 10 μm thickness, stained with Crossmon’s triple staining method and photographed under a microscope. The areas of the sections were calculated in an image analysis tool, and the heart volume was calculated using the Cavalieri method.ResultsIt was observed that the right atrium wall was thicker than the left atrium wall on the 10th and 13th days, and that the left atrium wall became thicker than the right one on the16th day still was on the 21st day. The left ventricular wall was thicker than the right one. It was observed that the diameter, wall diameter and lumen area of the aorta increased significantly towards the last day of incubation. The lumen diameter of the aorta increased until the 16th day but had decreased by the 21st day.ConclusionBesides contributing to existing anatomical knowledge with the presented morphometric data, these findings are expected to form a benchmark for imaging system data used in clinical practice, serve as reference values for clinical sciences and aid physicians in disease diagnosis.

Rapid efficacy testing of cattle footbath disinfectants by flow cytometry: a laboratory-validated screening method complementary to EN 1656

Sat, 18 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT

IntroductionDisinfectants are essential for preventing infectious diseases in livestock, particularly in cattle footbath applications. Conventional culture-based methods for assessing bactericidal efficacy are reliable but time-consuming, leaving the need unmet for rapid laboratory-based screening approaches.Material and MethodsThirteen commercially available cattle footbath disinfectants were evaluated using the EN 1656 dilution–neutralisation method and flow cytometry (FCM) with propidium iodide (PI) staining. A binary logistic regression model was developed to relate the proportion of PI+ cells to bactericidal efficacy.ResultsDisinfectants containing iodine or iodide, organic acids, hydrogen peroxide, quaternary ammonium compounds, glutaraldehyde or alcohol showed high bactericidal efficacy, whereas those with zinc sulphate were ineffective. The predictive model demonstrated good performance (AUC = 0.787) and identified an optimal threshold of approximately 80% PI+ cells, yielding 85.47% sensitivity and 76.92% specificity. Agreement between FCM and the EN 1656 method was high, with 7.69% inconsistent classifications.ConclusionFlow cytometry represents a rapid and efficient laboratory-based screening method with the potential to complement culture-based approaches for evaluating bovine footbath disinfectant efficacy.

Association between serum type-I, -III and -IV collagen concentrations and inguinal hernia status in piglets

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

IntroductionInguinal hernias are a significant health and economic problem in pig farming, affecting animal welfare and production profitability. Suspected aetiological factors include disorders in the metabolism of extracellular matrix components, including collagen, which is responsible for the integrity and strength of connective tissue. The aim of the study was to compare the concentrations of type-I, -III and -IV collagen in the blood serum of pigs with inguinal hernias to those in healthy animals.Material and MethodsThe study used 87 pigs, comprised of 59 hernia-affected individuals in the experimental group and 28 unaffected counterparts in the control group. The animals were of the same age and came from the same genetic line. The study used ELISA tests for the quantitative measurement of serum collagen concentrations.ResultsThe results showed significantly higher concentrations of type-I (P-value < 0.001) and type-III (P-value < 0.01) collagen in the experimental group, indicating an association between collagen metabolism and hernia status. For type-IV collagen, the differences were not statistically significant.ConclusionChanges in type-I and type-III collagen levels may be associated with inguinal hernia status in pigs and warrant further investigation as potential risk biomarkers. Type-IV collagen showed no relationship with hernia status in the study population.