Journal of Veterinary Research Feed

Golden jackals as hosts of zoonotic parasites: preliminary findings from southern Poland

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction The golden jackal, Canis aureus, has been rapidly expanding its range across Europe, raising concerns regarding its impact on the health of wildlife, domestic animals and humans. The goal of this study was to examine the parasitological fauna of golden jackals that had recently colonised southern Poland. Material and Methods The direct flotation method with centrifugation was used to search for parasite eggs, and a complex PCR and qPCR were run to detect the presence of tapeworms in nine faecal samples found by dogs and confirmed genetically, and in two samples taken from hunted individuals. The intestine contents of the hunted individuals were also examined using the sedimentation and counting technique. Camera traps were set to assess if the activity of golden jackals overlapped spatially with that of domestic animals. Results Nine out of eleven faecal samples contained eggs of the Toxocara and Trichuris genera and the Capillariidae and Ancylostomatidae families. Mesocestoides litteratus DNA was detected in three faecal samples and Taenia serialis DNA in one sample collected from a hunted golden jackal. The sites frequented by domestic cats and dogs were also visited by golden jackals. Conclusion Although golden jackals may be suspected of contributing to the transfer of some parasites to humans through domestic animals, the findings do not indicate that golden jackals represent a significant current or emerging threat to the health of wildlife or humans in southern Poland.

Effect of Radix Paeoniae Rubra aqueous extract on the virulence and antibiotic susceptibility of multi-drug resistant Escherichia coli

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction Some traditional Chinese medicine herbs can be used for the treatment of infectious diseases; however, the mechanisms are not fully explored. This study aims to elucidate the mechanism of action of Radix Paeoniae Rubra, one of the most commonly used herbs, in bacterial infections by studying its effects on the resistance and pathogenicity of multi-drug resistant (MDR) bacteria. Material and Methods In this study, MDR Escherichia coli O101 was treated with Radix Paeoniae Rubra aqueous extract (RPRE), and then the virulence factor protein secretion, biofilm formation and the drug resistance-related gene expression were determined by using broth microdilution, ELISA and qPCR. Results Our results found that RPRE inhibited the bacterial virulence factor proteins. It suppressed the antibiotic-induced transcription increase of efflux pump genes marA and soxS. It inhibited not only the expression of the outer membrane porin genes ompC and ompF but also the formation of bacterial biofilms, and the combination of RPRE with antibiotics increased the bacteria’s sensitivity to them. Conclusion Our study demonstrated that RPRE alone has a slight inhibitory effect on the bacteria, but at its sub-inhibitory concentrations, it can reduce resistance-related gene expression, inhibit virulence factor protein production and suppress biofilm formation. Furthermore, RPRE forms a bactericidal efficacy synergy when combined with antibiotics by decreasing MDR E. coli resistance and pathogenicity.

Phylogenetic analysis and susceptibility to antibiotics and phytogenics of Riemerella anatipestifer strains isolated in Poland

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction Riemerella anatipestifer (RA) is a causative agent of high-mortality septicaemia anserum exsudativa, which inflicts large economic losses on poultry farming. The growing concern over antibiotic resistance and imposed limitations on these drugs’ use in animals prompt the search for antibiotic alternatives. This study characterises the phylogenetic relationship of Polish RA strains and assesses their susceptibility to antibiotics and trans-cinnamaldehyde, geraniol, carvacrol and eugenol as antibiotic alternatives. Material and Methods A total of 24 provided strains were confirmed by RA-specific PCR. A phylogenetic tree was generated with partial 16S ribosomal RNA sequences, also including Riemerella-type strains obtained from GenBank. Antibiotic susceptibility was determined by the Kirby–Bauer method and phytogenic susceptibility by the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) method. Results The majority of the strains clustered together, and only one, which clustered with the RA type strain, was an outlier. The widest inhibition-zone diameters were obtained for cephalexin, ceftazidime and cefuroxime, while more than 70% of the strains showed no visible zone of inhibition under the action of enrofloxacin, clindamycin, erythromycin or streptomycin. The most effective phytogenic was trans-cinnamaldehyde, with the minimum concentrations inhibitory and bactericidal to 90% of isolates being only 75 μg/mL. Conclusion The RA strains showed relatively low genetic diversity. Despite this, antimicrobial resistance varied significantly between them. Continuous monitoring of the resistance pattern is necessary. Interpretive criteria for RA susceptibility testing not having yet been standardised, existing research is inconclusive. Some phytogenics are promising alternatives to antibiotics; however, more pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics data are needed.

Campylobacter in backyard poultry: hidden risks and public health implications

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction Although risk factors associated with Campylobacter infection in poultry have been recognised, a notable gap exists associated with this infection in backyard poultry. Material and Methods Birds were examined by taking 315 cloacal swabs in six small, backyard poultry flocks of ducks, geese and ornamental chickens to determine the occurrence, genetic diversity and antimicrobial susceptibility of Campylobacter spp. Genomic diversity was assessed by sequencing the short variable region of the flaA gene and by virulence gene profiling. Antimicrobial susceptibility was analysed by the minimal inhibitory concentration method with the agar dilution technique. Results The prevalence of Campylobacter was 5.1%, with positive findings limited to ducks and ornamental chickens. A total of 16 isolates were recovered, comprising 14 of C. jejuni and 2 of C. coli. Duck isolates showed higher genetic diversity (Simpson’s diversity index (SDI) = 1.000), but ornamental chicken isolates were also not homogeneous (SDI = 0.911). The most frequently detected virulence determinants were flaA (100.0%), ciaB (75.0%), cadF (62.5%) and cdtC (62.5%). Antimicrobial resistance was most frequently to ciprofloxacin (93.8%), and to tetracycline (43.8%) and erythromycin (43.8%) in many instances, while multidrug resistance was found in 18.8% of isolates. Conclusion The results will contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the ecology and transmission dynamics of Campylobacter under the One Health framework.

Occurrence of bornaviruses, circoviruses and polyomaviruses in necropsy samples from parrots in Poland (2014–2024)

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction Proventricular dilatation disease (PDD) is a disease of parrots which has been known for many years, but only in 2008 was it confirmed that its cause is avian bornavirus (ABV). Further disease aetiology and epidemiology information came subsequently. Later research distinguished an eight-genotype group of parrot bornaviruses (PaBV) infecting psittacines. In addition to PaBV, circoviruses (beak and feather disease viruses – BFDV) and avian polyomaviruses (APyV) also represent major viral pathogens of parrots. These may occur concurrently. This study’s intent was to determine the occurrence of PaBV, BFDV and APyV in parrots in Poland between 2014 and 2024 and to compare it with extranational data. Material and Methods Samples taken from 210 naturally deceased breeder-owned and pet parrots necropsied between 2014 and 2024 were studied. Tissue samples were analysed by RT-PCR (PaBV) and nested PCR (BFDV and APyV). Results Parrot bornavirus RNA was detected in 50 parrots (23.8%), BFDV DNA in 59 (28%), and APyV DNA in 65 parrots (31%). A dilated proventriculus and gizzard – changes typical for PDD – were found in 22 (10.5%) cases and 18 were confirmed by a positive RT-PCR result. Thirty-two (15.2%) birds tested positive for PaBV despite the absence of obvious PDD lesions. Conclusion Bornavirus infections in parrots in Poland occur relatively often, but less frequently than infections with polyomaviruses and circoviruses. Only 36% of the birds with confirmed bornavirus infections had changes typical for PDD observed in necropsy.

Development and physicochemical evaluation of a gelatine-based hydrogel tube for potential use in veterinary glaucoma implants

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction Glaucoma is an eye disease in dogs and cats that increases intraocular pressure. There is no treatment method that is effective, safe and economical; however, scaffold drainage systems and hydrogels offer new therapeutic possibilities. The aim of this research was to develop a hydrogel implant for ophthalmic applications. Material and Methods Solutions at 5%, 10% and 15% concentrations of food-grade porcine gelatine and 15% and 16% concentrations of chemically purified gelatine with 19, 20, 21 mL or 25 mL of 2.5% glutaraldehyde as a crosslinking agent per 10 mL of distilled water were candidate formulations for the hydrogel. Visual and tactile assessments were made to choose the best candidate. The implant was a thin tube with an aluminium core and a Teflon foil mould. Curing was by immersion in ethanol. Ionic conductivity and compressive strength tests were performed on cylinder-shaped samples of the hydrogel. The best candidate hydrogel was tested calorimetrically for water content and its microstructure was examined for fluid transport capacity. Results The analyses confirmed the beneficial effect of alcohol on the structure. Hydrogels cured in ethanol were stiffer and more homogeneous and stable than those which were not, and the latter were eliminated. A hydrogel made with 1.8 g of 15% gelatine concentration, 19 mL of glutaraldehyde and 10 mL of distilled water was characterised by the highest resistance to standard compressive force. The highest ionic conductivity was obtained for the same sample. Thermal analysis showed that hydrogels stored in water contained significantly more weakly bound water (~0.53 g), whereas ethanol-conditioned hydrogels contained substantially less (~0.14 g), indicating a reduced water uptake and altered hydration profile due to alcohol conditioning. A hydrogel material based on gelatine crosslinked with glutaraldehyde was developed, from which a thin, small-diameter tube implant was made. Conclusion These studies have shown that the implant could potentially provide a solution for minimally invasive glaucoma treatment in small animals, but the testing phase must be continued.

Methylation and expression dynamics in broiler liver following in-ovo sodium butyrate administration

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction Butyrate is one of the three main short-chain fatty acids, and it provides energy, controls the state of the intestinal microbiota and mediates the immune response. Sodium butyrate supplementation improves poultry production and changes the intestinal microbiota dynamically. These changes may affect the liver directly and indirectly through pathways in the gut–liver axis, the bidirectional relationship between the liver and intestines. The study analysed gene expression and methylation in the broiler liver after in-ovo stimulation by sodium butyrate. Material and Methods Incubated Ross 308 broiler eggs were injected on day 12 with saline as the control group or with sodium butyrate as SB groups at three doses: 0.1%, 0.3% and 0.5%. Chicks’ livers were collected postmortem on day 42 of rearing for RNA and DNA extraction. Gene expression was analysed by reverse-transcription qPCR, and gene methylation by methylation-specific qPCR for a panel of lipid metabolism and immune regulation genes comprising ANGPTL4, CD72, CXCR5, CYR61, IKZF1, KLHL6, NR4A3, SERPING, SYK and TNFRSF14. Results Sodium butyrate stimulation changed gene expression levels. Upregulation was noted of ANGPTL4 and NR4A3 in the 0.1% and 0.3% SB groups and downregulation of CYR61 in the 0.5% SB group. The gene-specific DNA methylation also significantly changed under the influence of the sodium butyrate doses for ANGPTL4, CXCR5 and KLHL6. The level of global methylation did not change significantly, but did decrease with increasing butyrate dose. Conclusion The obtained results suggest that sodium butyrate affected both gene expression and methylation in the liver, indicating its potential epigenetic effects.

Selected inflammatory markers in uterine and peripheral blood of bitches with pyometra

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction Pyometra is a common and potentially life-threatening uterine infection in bitches, with severe local and systemic inflammation as symptoms. Studies exist on inflammatory markers in peripheral blood (PB), but little is known about their expression in uterine blood (UB). This study aimed to compare their concentrations simultaneously in UB and PB of bitches with pyometra, and to evaluate their diagnostic and prognostic potential. Material and Methods Twenty-two bitches with confirmed pyometra (13 closed-cervix and 9 open-cervix cases) and six healthy controls were enrolled. Blood samples were collected from the cephalic and uterine veins during ovariohysterectomy. The concentrations of IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-10 were measured using an ELISA validated for dogs, and C-reactive protein (CRP) was measured by an immunoturbidimetric assay. These five inflammatory markers were compared statistically between the three groups of dogs and two types of blood sample using the Mann–Whitney U and Wilcoxon tests. Results All markers were significantly elevated in affected bitches’ UB and PB. The IL-6 concentrations were significantly higher in UB than in PB, suggesting local production of this cytokine. Conversely, the IL-10 levels were higher in PB, possibly reflecting a systemic regulatory response. The concentrations of IL-1α and IL-1β differed insignificantly from each other. Those of CRP were significantly higher in open-cervix than in closed-cervix pyometra, indicating a stronger acute-phase response. Conclusion The results assign IL-6 and CRP a potential role as biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of pyometra. Simultaneous analysis of uterine and systemic inflammatory responses provides insight into the disease’s pathophysiology and may support more targeted therapeutic approaches.

Relationship between kisspeptin-10, neurokinin B and dynorphin A in the course of normal and delayed puberty in ewes

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction Kisspeptin (KiSS), neurokinin B (NKB) and dynorphin A (Dyn A) participate in the neuroendocrine regulation of reproductive system development and functioning; however, their roles in the onset of sexual maturity and pathomechanism of delayed puberty have not yet been fully elucidated. The aim of the study was to determine changes in the kisspeptin-10 (KiSS-10), NKB and Dyn A concentration in blood plasma collected from ewe lambs during puberty in relation to the first ovulation time, and to examine the relationship between these neuropeptides. Material and Methods Twenty-four ewe lambs were divided into two groups: from single (S) pregnancies and from twin (T) pregnancies. To determine the KiSS-10, NKB and Dyn A concentration with ELISA, blood was collected from all sheep at 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10 months of age. Singletons and twins had their first ovulations at 8 and 10 months of age, respectively. Results Changes in the KiSS-10 and NKB concentrations were positively correlated with age in both S (r = 0.86) and T ewes (r = 0.89). A negative correlation was found between KiSS-10 and Dyn A (r = –0.55 and –0.98, for S and T, respectively) and between NKB and Dyn A (r = –0.89 and –0.94, for S and T, respectively). Conclusion The initiation of ovarian activity is associated with concurrent increases in plasma KiSS-10 and NKB concentrations with age and reduced Dyn A concentrations in both groups. Our results show that these neuropeptides may regulate the timing of reproductive activity onset in sheep.

Helminth parasites infecting feral pigeons (Columba livia) in Al Ain City, United Arab Emirates

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction Columba livia, the common pigeon, is the most abundant free-ranging avian species in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Despite the pigeon’s ecological prominence, data on helminth parasites infecting this host remain undocumented in the region. This investigation examined helminth infections in both wild and domestic pigeon populations in the city of Al Ain to establish baseline parasitological records. Material and Methods A cross-sectional survey conducted between August 2023 and October 2024 analysed 100 adult pigeons obtained through trapping and local market acquisition. The helminth parasites recovered were morphologically identified, and parasitological indicators were determined including infection prevalence and intensity. Results Helminths were detected in 69% of examined birds, with a mean infection intensity of 6.4 parasites per host. Seven helminth species were identified: three cestodes (Raillietina echinobothrida, Raillietina tetragona and Cotugnia digonopora), three nematodes (Ascaridia galli, Dispharagus nasutus and Gongylonema sp.), and one trematode (Brachylaima sp.). Raillietina echinobothrida (57%) and C. digonopora (21%) were the most prevalent. Key epidemiological findings showed male pigeons had significantly higher infection intensity (5.1 vs 3.5 parasites/bird) than females, though prevalence differences were not significant (71.4% vs 65.9%). Crucially, feral pigeons exhibited a dramatically higher infection prevalence (92%) than domestic pigeons (46%). However, infection intensity differences between feral (2.7) and domestic (2.3) birds were not significant. Conclusion As the first helminthological assessment of UAE pigeons, this study documents seven new regional parasite records and underscores the need for continued surveillance to assess potential zoonotic and ecological risks in urban ecosystems.

Surveillance of a PLOD gene variant linked to fragile foal syndrome in Silesian horses in Poland: implications for genetic monitoring and breeding strategies

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Original text: “Results: The detected carrier frequency was 14.6%, an increase over previously reported carriage for this breed.” Corrected text: “Results: The detected carrier frequency was 12.7% and comparable with previously reported carriage for this breed.”

Clinical cases of Cryptosporidium spp. infections in parrots, canaries and pigeons confirmed by molecular and immunochromatographic methods

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction Cryptosporidium spp. is a protozoan parasite capable of infecting all vertebrates worldwide. Infections are typically associated with diarrhoea, although cryptosporidiosis can also involve the respiratory tract. Birds are particularly susceptible to the clinical consequences of Cryptosporidium infection, which most commonly include diarrhoea, vomiting, regurgitation, crop inflammation, enterocolitis and poor feather and skin condition. Material and Methods In this study, faecal samples from 52 parrots, 3 canaries and 8 fancy pigeons were examined for the presence of Cryptosporidium antigen and DNA. One immunochromatographic assay and two amplification methods targeting the 18S rRNA gene fragment were employed (a genus-specific nested PCR and a one-tube nested real-time PCR), and the resulting PCR products were sequenced. Results Cryptosporidium proventriculi was identified in 15 parrots, while C. meleagridis was detected in 1 parrot and 5 pigeons. No mixed infections were reported. The immunochromatographic test sensitivity and specificity were calculated to be 66.7% and 88.1%, respectively. Conclusion Given the high prevalence and diversity of Cryptosporidium spp. in pet birds, molecular diagnostics are essential for accurate identification and appropriate clinical management. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study in Poland aimed at detecting Cryptosporidium infections in pet birds.

Cysticercus tenuicollis in selected locations in Poland: genetic diversity, prevalence and epidemiological patterns in roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) and moose (Alces alces)

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction Taenia hydatigena is a widespread tapeworm. The predilection site of the adult form is the small intestine of its carnivore definitive hosts, and this site of the larval form, Cysticercus tenuicollis, is the abdominal visceral organs of its ungulate intermediate hosts. Cysticercal lesions are of food safety and economic importance, as they may condemn carcasses or internal organs of slaughtered animals and hunted game. The study aimed to evaluate the prevalence, intensity of infection and species composition of metacestodes from Polish roe deer and moose, and analyse the genetic diversity of the isolates. Material and Methods Altogether, 167 roe deer (from the Mazowieckie and Łódzkie voivodeships) and 36 moose (from the Mazowieckie, Lubelskie and Podlaskie voivodeships) were studied. Metacestodes were collected post mortem and used for molecular investigations based on the partial cox1 (cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1) gene. Results The prevalence and the general intensity of infection were 9.6% and 1–6 cysts for roe deer, and 8.3% and 1–9 cysts for moose. Exclusively T. hydatigena infections were noted. Intraspecific genetic diversity of 1.42% was observed. The omentum and the mesentery were the most prevalent locations of metacestodes. Conclusion Taenia hydatigena isolates from roe deer and moose varied genetically. Assuming national prevalence at the level observed in this study, the number of infected roe deer in Poland could exceed 18,000. Although T. hydatigena is not a zoonotic agent, its spread should be monitored and limited. Dogs should not be fed raw game meat in order to prevent parasitosis from spreading to farm animals.

Chloramine T in pikeperch (Sander lucioperca) aquaculture. Safeguard or hidden threat? Evaluating its effect on fish growth, immune response and liver function

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction Chloramine T (CLT) is utilised in aquaculture for its disinfectant and antiseptic properties, yet its physiological effects on fish health remain underexplored, particularly in emerging species like pikeperch (Sander lucioperca). This study assessed the impact of CLT exposure on growth performance, immune response and liver function in pikeperch reared in recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS). Material and Methods A total of 270 fish were assigned to a control group (C), a single-bath group (10 mg L−1, day 0; CLT1) and a three-bath group (10 mg L−1 on days 0, 7 and 14; CLT3). Fish were reared in independent RAS units under stable physicochemical conditions. Growth performance was monitored, and blood and tissue were sampled. Liver enzyme (ALT, AST and alkaline phosphatase), serum lysozyme and ceruloplasmin activities, phagocyte function, lymphocyte proliferation and liver histopathology were assessed. Results Growth parameters and condition factor (ratio of body weight to the cube of body length) remained stable across all groups, and no mortality was observed. Liver enzyme activities showed no significant alterations; however, inflammatory changes were noted in the liver in the CLT3 group. Serum lysozyme activity increased after the initial exposure, indicating an acute immune response. In contrast, repeated exposure reduced respiratory burst and phagocyte killing activity, suggesting immunosuppression; however, CLT3-group T and B lymphocytes proliferated more as a reaction to inflammation. Conclusion While CLT at 10 mg L−1 is indicated to be generally safe for pikeperch under controlled RAS conditions, repeated exposures may induce mild hepatic inflammation and temporary immune modulation. This study offers insights into optimising the use of CLT in aquaculture to ensure efficacy and safety.

Analysis of the virulence potential, ability to form biofilms and susceptibility to bacteriocins of Staphylococcus aureus strains isolated from livestock and wildlife

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction The aims of the study were to analyse the ability of Staphylococcus aureus isolated from livestock and wildlife to produce biofilm, the presence of virulence genes and their distribution of within individual sequence types among these strains, and to assess the activity of bacteriocins isolated from Enterococcus and Lactococcus spp. against methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA). Material and Methods Biofilm formation was assessed using the crystal violet assay. The occurrence of 29 virulence genes was examined by PCR. The analysis of the activity of 13 bacteriocins was carried out using the agar spot test. Results All the S. aureus strains had the ability to form biofilm. Nineteen virulence genes were detected, the most abundant of which were icaA, icaR, clfA and eno (all 100%), icaD (99%), icaB (85%), fnbpA (93%), cidA (87%), ebps (83%), sdrC (77%) and sdrE (76%). Correlations between the occurrence of clfB and fib and strong biofilm formation as well as between the occurrence of SeC, hla, hlb and fnbpB and methicillin resistance were observed (P-value < 0.05). A high degree of heterogeneity in virulence profiles was observed in a host-dependent pattern. Among MRSA belonging mainly to sequence type 398, virulence profiles XII and XIII dominated, including several of the noted genes. The bacteriocins produced by L. lactis, E. asini and E. saccharolyticus had a growth-inhibiting effect on MRSA, nisin having the highest activity. Conclusion The presence of several virulence genes in the same S. aureus strain with demonstrable drug resistance and its ability to form biofilms indicate livestock and wildlife as potential reservoirs of pathogens dangerous to public health. The activity of some bacteriocins against MRSA could offer a promising alternative to antibiotic therapy.

Molecular characterisation of viral pathogens associated with respiratory and gastrointestinal infections in dogs in Türkiye – preliminary study

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction Canine viral infections cause significant morbidity and mortality in dogs worldwide. This study aimed to investigate the presence of canine adenovirus (CAdV), canine parvovirus (CPV), canine distemper virus (CDV) and canine herpesvirus (CHV) at the molecular level. Material and Methods A total of 68 paired nasal secretion and blood samples were obtained from 34 dogs, and 93 faecal samples were collected, each from a single dog. All sampled animals showed clinical signs of respiratory or gastrointestinal disorders. They came from five different provinces of Türkiye. The samples were tested by PCR and selected strains were sequenced. Results While no CAdV was detected in the PCR analyses, CPV gene amplification was achieved in 60.2% (56/93) of the DNA extracted from faecal samples, CDV genes were amplified in 11.8% (4/34) of the genetic material extracted from nasal swabs, and CHV genes were amplified in 14.7% (5/34). One nasal swab sample showed a co-infection with CDV and CHV, but the corresponding blood sample did not. Phylogenetic analyses of the viral strains were conducted; among CPV strains, CPV-2b and CPV-2c variants were identified and found to share high genetic similarity with strains of Asian and African origin. The CDV strains were closely related to European strains, while the CHV strains exhibited genetic diversity and matched strains isolated worldwide. No statistically significant association was found between viral infections and the sex or age of the animals. Conclusion These findings provide insight into the molecular epidemiology of viral infections in dogs in Türkiye and reveal that local strains are phylogenetically closely related to globally circulating strains.

First molecular identification and phylogenetic analysis of Neospora caninum in dogs from Sulaymaniyah province, Iraq

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction Neospora caninum is a cosmopolitan intracellular coccidian parasite causing paralysis and neuromuscular problems in dogs, as well as abortion in cattle. This study investigated the molecular prevalence of neosporosis in Sulaymaniyah, Kurdistan, Iraq, and characterised the genetic diversity of the N. caninum Nc5 gene in isolates from that region. Material and Methods From July to December 2024, a study was conducted in Sulaymaniyah province in which 258 canine blood samples were collected and analysed for N. caninum infection. Conventional PCR and Nc5 gene sequencing were used to detect the parasite and assess its genetic diversity. Results The rate of infection with N. caninum was 3.87% and the disease was significantly (P < 0.05) higher in stray dogs (6.38%) than in kept dogs (0.85%), in dogs (6.45%) than in bitches (1.49%) and in adults (6.30%) than in juveniles (1.52%). Analysis of partial Nc5 gene sequences from the protozoa resulted in the isolation and identification of 10 local isolates in the study region. Six of these isolates matched sequences previously deposited in GenBank, while four novel isolates, characterised by six new mutations, were identified for the first time in the research area. Phylogenetic analysis indicated a close relationship between N. caninum isolates from different countries. Conclusion The current research provided a useful molecular dataset for N. caninum species, which is crucial for the assessment of phylogenetic associations and the molecular identification of these protozoans.

Concentrations of 137Cs in forest mushrooms and soil in southern Poland

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction Since 1986, Poland has been constantly contaminated with radioactive 137Cs, and before that, it experienced fallout like most of the world since nuclear bomb tests. As a result of radioactive fallout, vegetation and fungi acquired contamination. The distribution and migration of 137Cs between elements of the environment affect the uptake of the radionuclide by animals and its movement up the food chain. This research was conducted to measure the concentrations of 137Cs in soil and mushrooms and to understand radionuclide transfer. Material and Methods The research material consisted of mushroom and soil samples obtained from a forest in southern Poland. A total of 30 fungi and 20 soil samples were tested using gamma radiation spectrometry. Results The highest concentration in a whole-mushroom sample was 1,650 ± 20.40 Bq/kg, in a stipe was 2,192 ± 264.1 Bq/kg and in a cap was 1,323 ± 159.5 Bq/kg. The highest concentration in a soil sample taken from a depth of 0–10 cm was 105.7 ± 13.15 Bq/kg and in a sample from a depth of 10–20 cm was 39.48 ± 5.310 Bq/kg. Conclusion The obtained results indicate that the transfer of 137Cs occurs from the soil towards the mushroom fruiting bodies, with the highest concentrations recorded in the stipes. Additionally, the cross-section of the transport profile shows the distribution of the tested radionuclide in individual elements of the environment and thus the degree of their radioactive contamination.

Simultaneous determination of lincomycin, spiramycin, tylosin and tiamulin in animal feed using liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry after a microbial assay

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction To monitor the occurrence of antibiotics in feed, a two-step control strategy is often adopted of screening by microbiological inhibition followed by confirmation by chromatographic techniques. This study is devoted to the development of a reliable method for simultaneous determination of lincomycin, spiramycin, tylosin and tiamulin in animal feed using liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry after a microbial assay. Material and Methods The analytes were extracted from feed using a methanol:water mixture, and solid-phase extraction was employed for the isolation of the antibiotics. The determination of the presence of lincomycin, spiramycin, tylosin and tiamulin was carried out using high-performance liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry. Results The method was validated according to EU requirements. The decision limit and detection capability were 0.213–0.318 and 0.259–0.535 mg kg−1, respectively, and the limits of detection and quantification were 0.029–0.151 and 0.069–0.223 mg kg−1, respectively, depending on the analyte. Recoveries were satisfactory (86.6–105.1%), repeatability ranged from 2.6 to 18.3% and reproducibility from 6.2 to 11.7%. Conclusion The proposed method is reliable and applicable to identify four antibiotics for feed-safety control.

Prevalence, risk factors and genetic diversity of Chlamydia felis in cats

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction Chlamydia felis is the main chlamydial pathogen of cats and is associated with conjunctivitis and respiratory disease. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of Chlamydiaceae and Chlamydia felis, to explore risk factors and predictors (age, sex, breed, origin and ocular signs) for infection using logistic regression, and to appraise genetic diversity via ompA sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. Material and Methods Conjunctival swabs from 156 cats were examined using real-time PCR assays for Chlamydiaceae and C. felis. Logistic regression and Kaplan–Meier analysis evaluated risk factors, and partial ompA sequences were phylogenetically analysed. Results Chlamydiaceae DNA was detected in 7.7% (12/156) of cats and was identified as C. felis. Infections were mostly unilateral. Threshold cycle values varied widely, suggesting heterogeneous bacterial loads. Younger age was a significant risk factor, and the probability of infection decreased steadily with age. Ocular signs strongly predicted infection. British Shorthair/Longhair cats had more than threefold higher odds of infection than European Shorthair cats. Phylogenetic analysis of ompA showed very high genome conservation (99.7–100%), which was consistent with global data. Conclusion This first molecular study of C. felis in Poland in ten years demonstrates that infection mainly affects young, purebred cats with apparent conjunctivitis. The genetic stability of ompA supports the concept of a globally homogeneous C. felis population.