Macedonian Veterinary Review Feed

Comparative Reproductive Response of Bulgarian Murrah Buffaloes to Ovsynch Protocol Across Breeding and Non-Breeding Seasons

Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The aim of this study was to evaluate Ovsynch protocol efficiency and the effect of season on conception rates in Bulgarian Murrah buffaloes. The Ovsynch protocol was applied in 32 buffaloes during the breeding period (Group I) and 15 buffaloes during the non-breeding season (Group II). Ultrasound scans were performed on day -10, day 0 and day 10 to detect ovarian structures and on day 35 after fixed-time artificial insemination for early pregnancy diagnosis. Blood samples were collected on the 7th and 17th day for assay of serum progesterone concentrations and detection of ovulation stage. Discharge was observed in 59.4% (19/32) of the buffaloes from the first and 33.3% (5/15) from the second group. Pregnancy was detected in 52.6% (10/19) of the animals during the breeding season and in 40.0% (2/5) during the non-breeding season. Openness of the cervical canal was registered in 53.1% (17/32) of animals from first group and in 20.0% (3/15) from the second one, whereas pregnancy was detected in 23.5% (4/17) and 33.3%, (1/3) respectively. During the breeding season the ovulation rate was detected in 71.9% (23/32) of the buffaloes after the first GnRH treatment, and in 81.3% (26/32) after the second one. In the second group, percentages were lower-53.3% (8/15) and 66.7% (10/15). On the 35th day, pregnancy was detected in 46.9% (15/32) of the buffaloes during the breeding season and 20.0% (3/15) during non-breeding season. Our results showed that the Ovsynch protocol is efficient for estrus synchronisation and fertilisation in both season. The highest ovulation rates are obtained in buffaloes with CL and follicle ≤10 mm at starting of protocol. Ultrasound determination of ovarian structures before starting the Ovsynch protocol will increase ovulation and pregnancy rates.

Pet Owners’ Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Regarding Antimicrobial Use and Antimicrobial Resistance in Companion Animals in North Macedonia

Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Antimicrobial use (AMU) in companion animals is influenced not only by veterinary prescribing practices but also by pet owners, whose decisions on medication administration, compliance, and expectations can impact antimicrobial stewardship and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) at the human–animal interface. This study aimed to assess pet owners’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding AMU and AMR in companion animals in North Macedonia. A cross-sectional, web-based questionnaire was completed by 410 pet owners in North Macedonia. Data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Of the respondents, 96.3% (395/410) acknowledged AMR as a serious health challenge, indicating high general awareness. However, this awareness did not consistently translate into accurate knowledge and recommended practices. For example, while 92.4% (379/410) identified bacteria as a target of antibiotic therapy, only 67.1% (275/410) chose bacteria as the only correct answer. Regarding interspecies transmission, 66.6% (273/410) agreed that companion animals may transmit antimicrobial-resistant bacteria to humans, while 60.2% (247/410) were previously aware of such transmission. Trust in veterinarians was high, but 36.1% (148/410) of respondents still expected antibiotic therapy for a wide range of clinical conditions. Additionally, 44.1% (181/410) reported administering antibiotics intended for human use to their pets, and 62.9% (258/410) reported keeping antibiotics at home “just in case.” Knowledge of bacteriological testing was associated with adherence to the prescribed treatment duration. These findings indicate that, despite high general awareness of AMR, important gaps remain in pet owners’ specific knowledge and practices. Pet owners should be considered an important target for antimicrobial stewardship efforts in small animal practice in North Macedonia.

Anatomical Variations of the Anterior Branches of the Abdominal Aorta in Humans-Possible Similarities With Other Mammals

Wed, 26 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Anatomical variations of the celiac trunk (CT), superior mesenteric artery (SMA) and inferior mesenteric artery (IMA) have significant clinical relevance, particularly in abdominal surgery and interventional radiology. In this study, a cross-sectional analysis was performed on 60 contrast-enhanced CT angiography scans of the abdominal aorta in adult patients. The evaluation included the vertebral level of origin, branching patterns, and arterial diameters of the CT, SMA, and IMA, with variations classified according to established anatomical classifications and analyzed using descriptive statistical methods. The results demonstrated that typical branching anatomy was present in 95% of cases, while anatomical variations were identified in 5% of patients. The celiac trunk most commonly originated at the level of the T12–L1 intervertebral disc (91.70%). The classical trifurcation (Uflacker Type I) was observed in 95% of cases. The SMA showed an independent origin in 98.33% of patients, whereas the IMA originated independently in all examined cases. The mean arterial diameters were 6.94±1.18 mm for the CT, 6.56±1.11 mm for the SMA, and 2.73±0.52 mm for the IMA. Although classical vascular anatomy predominates, the presence of clinically relevant variations highlights the importance of their preoperative identification. High-resolution 128-slice MDCT angiography proves to be a reliable modality for accurate vascular mapping and effective surgical planning.

The Effects of Bovine Colostrum Supplementation on Faecal and Blood Parameters in Adult Racing Horses

Mon, 10 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

This study assessed the effects of bovine colostrum supplementation on hematological and serological parameters as well as on fecal microbiome in twenty adult racehorses. The horses were randomly divided in two groups. The first was perorally supplemented with lyophilized bovine colostrum daily for 30 days, and the second was used as control and had no supplementation. Blood and fecal samples from each animal were collected on day 0 and 30. The results showed that the supplemented group displayed modest changes in some hematological and serological parameters compared to the non-supplemented group. Lactic acid showed significant difference (p=0.03) between the experimental (2.13±0.24 mmol/L) horses in the experimental group, compared to 3 out of 10 horses in the control group on day 30, which shows a statistically significant increase. (p=0.008). Presence of fungal agents detected at day 30, showed a decrease in the experimental group compared to the initial measurements, specifically, Geotrichum spp. from present in 8 horses, to present in 5 and Mucor spp. from present in 6 horses to absent (p=0.002). The findings suggest that bovine colostrum supplementation had beneficial effects on microbial balance and systemic health adult racing horses.

Polymorphism of Prion Protein Gene and Evaluation on Genetic Risk for Scrapie in Three Native and One Introduced Breed in the Republic of North Macedonia

Mon, 10 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Transmissible spongiform encephalopathy in sheep is known as scrapie. Polymorphisms at codons 136, 154, and 171 of the prion protein (PRNP) gene are associated with resistance or susceptibility to the disease. Based on allele combinations, sheep are classified into five genetic risk groups. The aim of this study was to determine the distribution of PRNP gene polymorphisms and assess the genetic susceptibility to scrapie among native and introduced sheep breeds reared in North Macedonia. A total of 309 unrelated animals from three native Pramenka-type sheep breeds, Karakachanian (n=92), Ovchepolian (n=91), and Sharplaninian (n=34), and one introduced breed, Awassi (n=92), were genotyped. The Awassi and Sharplaninian breeds were dominated by the ARQ/ARQ genotype (R3). In Karakachanian sheep, the ARR/ARQ genotype (R2) was most frequent, while Ovchepolian sheep showed equal predominance of ARR/ARQ (R2) and ARQ/ARQ (R3). High-risk genotypes (R4 and R5) were detected only in the Ovchepolian and Sharplaninian breeds. The ARQ allele was the most frequent in Awassi (0.7609), Ovchepolian (0.4945), and Sharplaninian (0.5000), whereas the ARR allele predominated in Karakachanian sheep (0.5772). The VRQ allele was detected only in the Ovchepolian and Sharplaninian breeds. These findings demonstrate genetic differences among the studied sheep populations and provide valuable information for breeding strategies aimed at increasing resistance to scrapie while conserving breed diversity.

Radiological and Histological Assessment of the Regeneration of Experimental Fractures of Critical Length, Treated with Hydroxyapatite Alone and in Combination with Autologous PRP-gel

Tue, 04 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) gel combined with nanohydroxyapatite (HA) on bone regeneration in critical-sized diaphyseal defects in rabbits. Fourteen clinically healthy adult New Zealand White rabbits were divided into two groups: control (HA only, n=7) and experimental (HA+PRP, n=7). Standardized defects were created in the radius (≥1.5× bone diameter), and radiological, histological, histochemical, and immunohistochemical analyses were performed on days 30, 60, and 90 post-surgery. Radiographically, the PRP group demonstrated earlier bone bridge formation and complete defect filling by day 90, with significantly higher healing coefficients (0.64 vs 0.21; p<0.05). Histological evaluation revealed accelerated callus maturation and active osteogenesis with organized bone marrow in the PRP group, whereas the HA group showed incomplete union and persistent fibrous tissue. Immunohistochemical staining (CD34) confirmed neovascularization and hematopoietic precursor cell proliferation in the PRP-treated defects. The combined use of nanohydroxyapatite and PRP gel significantly enhanced osteoregeneration and shortened healing time in critical-sized bone defects.

Influence of Relative Humidity on Internal Quality, Bacterial Load, and Mold Contamination of Eggs During 28-Day Storage

Tue, 04 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

This study analyzed the effects of varying relative humidity (RH) on the internal and microbiological quality of eggs stored at ambient temperature (22±2°C) for 28 days. Medium-sized eggs, produced by 60-week-old Lohmann Brown hens (n=30), were selected randomly and allocated into sealed chambers set to 20%, 60%, or 100% RH. Egg weights were measured weekly, while internal quality attributes were evaluated at the conclusion of the storage duration. Eggs stored at 20% RH exhibited the highest weight loss (5.9%), whereas those at 100% RH showed minimal moisture loss (0.39%). Eggs stored at 20% RH also exhibited the highest yolk redness. Compared to 96.7% and 100% in the 60% and 20% RH groups, respectively, only 36.7% of eggs stored at 100% RH remained organoleptically acceptable for consumption after 28 days, based on predefined classification criteria. The 60% RH condition resulted in the poorest albumen structure, as reflected by the lowest Haugh unit scores. The length and width of the albumen decreased at 20% RH, while yolk pH remained unaffected by the humidity level. The yolk index declined as humidity increased. Eggs stored at 100% RH harbored the highest microbial loads, including mold, yeast, and aerobic bacteria, whereas the lowest shell contamination was observed at 20% RH. No significant differences in microbial counts were identified between the 20% and 60% RH groups. In conclusion, storage at low humidity (20%) was associated with better preservation of selected quality whereas saturated humidity (100%) was associated with significant quality deterioration and an increased risk of contamination.

Distribution of Porcine Circovirus 2 in Wild Boar in Estonia

Sun, 12 Jul 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Porcine Circovirus 2 (PCV2), member of the Circoviridae family, is globally prevalent virus in domestic pigs and wild boars, causing a group of diseases known as porcine circovirus-associated disease (PCVAD). Given its significant economic impact and potential for interspecies transmission, surveillance in wild boar populations is essential. As to date, no data exist on PCV2 prevalence in Estonian wild boars. The study aimed to assess the seroprevalence of PCV2 in Estonian wild boar populations by age and sex, and evaluate tissue-level histopathological changes and antigen localization to support serological findings. Blood and lymphnode material from wild boars were collected randomly from all Estonian counties (n=433). They were divided into three age groups and subdivided by sex. Detection of PCV2-specific antibodies was performed using ELISA (INGEZIM Circo IgG 11.PCV.K.1®). Histopathological and immunohistochemical (IHC) examinations were conducted on mesenteric lymph node sections using hematoxylin-eosin and PCV2-specific monoclonal antibodies. Statistical analysis was conducted with Python (version 3.13.0, 2024). PCV2 antibodies were detected in 92% of samples, indicating widespread viral exposure. Highest seroprevalence was observed in wild boars aged ≤1 year, followed by 1-2 year and >2 year groups. No statistically significant differences in positivity were found between age groups (p=0.199) or sexes (p=0.453). Histopathology revealed lymphocyte depletion and histiocyte proliferation in lymphoid tissues and IHC examination confirmed PCV2 antigen presence in cytoplasm of lymphocytes and histiocytes. The high seroprevalence of PCV2 detected in Estonian wild boars aligned with findings from other European countries.

Diagnostic Differentiation Between Benign and Malignant Lymphoid and Non-Lymphoid Neoplastic Splenic Diseases in Dogs

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The retrospective study investigated hematological and biochemical differences in dogs with neoplastic splenic disease (NSD), comparing malignant versus non-malignant, as well as malignant lymphoid versus malignant non-lymphoid tumors. The research included 20 dogs with splenic disease admitted at the University Veterinary Hospital in Skopje within three years. Each dog underwent clinical examination, abdominal ultrasound, blood, serum, and cytology analysis. Based on cytological findings, dogs were divided into two groups: malignant (M, n=14) and benign (B, n=6) spleen disease. The M group was further divided into malignant lymphoid (ML, n=6) and malignant non-lymphoid (MNL, n=8) subgroups. Data (mean±SEM) was analyzed with Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney U Test with significance levels set at p<0.05. The M group had significantly higher values than B group for white blood cell (32.08±9.29 and 7.37±0.96x109/L, respectively), monocyte (2.89±1.09 and 0.64±0.12x109/L, respectively), neutrophil counts (17.46±3.80 and 5.39±0.88x109/L, respectively), alanine aminotransferase (82.52±12.49 and 36.89±4.14 IU/L, respectively), and alkaline phosphatase levels (279.16±62.06 and 111.80±15.40 IU/L, respectively). Within the M group, ML subgroup had significantly higher values than MNL for white blood cell (62.80±19.65 and 15.02±3.03x109/L, respectively) and neutrophil counts (29.02±7.86 and 11.04±2.22x109/L, respectively), but lower for alkaline phosphatase (252.80±56.02 and 293.80±93.76 U/L, respectively). Ultrasonographic findings of heterogenous hypoechoic nodules (‘leopard’ pattern), pleomorphic lymphoblasts infiltration, and elevated leucocytes, neutrophils, monocytes, alanine transaminase, and alkaline phosphatase, may aid in differentiating malignant from benign NSD in dogs. Additional to the ultrasonographic and cytology findings, elevated leucocytes, neutrophils, and alkaline phosphatase effectively differentiate lymphoid from non-lymphoid NSD in dogs.

Comparative Effects of Wild Hyperici Herba and Hypericum perforatum L. Hairy Root Extracts on Renal Carbohydrate Metabolism and Oxidative Stress in STZ-Induced Diabetic Rats

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Chronic hyperglycemia-induced imbalances in renal carbohydrate metabolism and oxidative stress contribute to diabetic kidney complications, highlighting the urgent need for therapies targeting both pathways. This study evaluates nephroprotective effects of Hypericum perforatum L. extracts-wild Hyperici herba (HH) and hairy root (HR)-in streptozotocin-induced diabetic Wistar rats. Male Wistar rats received single intraperitoneal streptozotocin injection (45 mg/kg body weight) with diabetes confirmed by fasting blood glucose >15 mmol/L. Diabetic rats were treated with daily oral doses of HH or HR extracts for 14 consecutive days. Renal carbohydrate metabolism was assessed through glycogen content, glucose levels, glucose-6-phosphate content, glucose-6-phosphatase and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activities. Oxidative stress markers evaluated included catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione reductase, glutathione peroxidase activities, total glutathione levels, and malondialdehyde (MDA) content. Diabetes induced 1.56-fold renal glucose increase, 1.7-fold glycogen accumulation, 47.5% higher glucose-6-phosphatase activity, 39.4% lower glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activity, 44% catalase reduction, and elevated MDA levels. Both extracts significantly improved these parameters; HH reduced glucose-6-phosphatase by 33.1%, restored dehydrogenase by 61.5%; HR showed superior effects (37.5% and 67.3% respectively) plus normalized glycogen and enhanced catalase above controls. Glibenclamide had limited effects. Xanthone-enriched HR extract demonstrated superior nephroprotection versus HH and glibenclamide through comprehensive restoration of carbohydrate metabolism and antioxidant defenses in diabetic nephropathy.

Diagnostic Techniques Used in Veterinary Oncology: Useful but with Problems. What Can A Veterinary Oncologist Do?

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Veterinary diagnostic techniques are pivotal for the early identification and effective treatment planning, making them central to advancing veterinary oncology. They underpin the accurate identification and characterisation of neoplastic diseases, helping to guide effective treatment planning and improve animal health outcomes. This review emphasises the critical role of diverse diagnostic techniques, including cytology, histopathology, immunohistochemistry, electron microscopy, radiographic imaging (X-ray, computed tomography, positron mission tomography, magnetic resonance imaging), serology, and molecular techniques such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR), fluorescence in situ hybridization, and gene sequencing, that are critical for tumour diagnosis in veterinary practice. Despite their indispensability, these methods face significant challenges, mainly a lack of comprehensive standardisation and limited validation of established protocols and grading schemes. Recognising these related issues will assist in resolving them, which is vital for improving diagnostic accuracy, promoting innovation, and equipping veterinary professionals to make informed and effective clinical oncology decisions, thereby advancing both veterinary care and research.

Effects of Lyophilization on Diagnostic Potential of Brucella Antigens

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Brucella is the causative agent of brucellosis, a serious zoonotic bacterial illness that affects a variety of mammals worldwide. Brucellosis control and eradication programs mainly depend on effective and safe vaccination programs and accurate diagnostic tools. Animals are typically tested for bovine brucellosis using the complement fixation test (CFT), indirect ELISA (I-ELISA), and slide agglutination assays. The aim of the work is to produce freeze-dried slide agglutination antigens to be a strategic store for emergency outbreaks and to evaluate these antigens based on their diagnostic performance characteristics. In-house freeze-dried and liquid Rose Bengal antigens and freeze-dried and Liquid Buffered Acidified Plate Agglutination antigens were developed. I-ELISA with in-house produced antigen titrated and coated with smooth lipopolysaccharide was prepared and validated. The diagnostic performance parameters for each test were estimated using CFT as a gold standard test. The diagnostic performance characteristics for slide agglutination tests using different antigen preparations were estimated using CFT as a reference test. The study included 95 bovine sera tested for brucellosis. The Rose Bengal plate test was positive in 68 and 67 of sera by both LRB and FDRB, respectively. BAPA was positive in 72, 71, and 58 of sera when tested by LBAPA, FDBAPA, and I-ELISA respectively, while 48 sera were positive when confirmed by CFT. It was concluded that the newly prepared freeze-dried slide agglutination antigens were approximately as efficient as traditionally prepared antigens in terms of diagnostic performance items.

Prevalence, Risk Factors, and Zoonotic Potential of Intestinal Parasites in Shelter Dogs in North Macedonia: A Cross-Sectional Study

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Intestinal parasites in shelter dogs present significant health risk to animals and humans. This cross-sectional study examined the prevalence, risk factors, and zoonotic implications of intestinal parasites in 156 shelter dogs across all eight regions of North Macedonia. Fecal samples were analyzed using fecal smears and flotation techniques. The overall prevalence was 70.51%, with hookworms (Ancylostomatidae) (36.54%), Giardia spp. (24.36%), and Trichuris spp. (21.79%) identified as the most prevalent parasites. Significant risk factors included young age, mixed breed, and regional variations. Although the treatment reduced infection rates, regional disparities remained. These findings underscore the urgent need for standardized deworming protocols and One Health strategies to mitigate zoonotic risks.

The Impact of Micellar Coenzyme Q10 and Liposomal Coenzyme Q10 on TNF-α and IL-1β in Cisplatin-Induced Nephrotoxicity in Rats

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Cisplatin is a widely used chemotherapeutic agent, but its clinical application is often limited due to its nephrotoxic effects, largely mediated through proinflammatory cytokines. This study investigates the comparative effectiveness of micellar and liposomal formulations of Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) in modulating serum levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) in a rat model of cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity. Ninety Wistar rats were divided into control group and five experimental groups receiving various treatments, including cisplatin alone, micellar CoQ10, liposomal CoQ10, and combinations thereof. Serum concentrations of TNF-α and IL-1β were measured at defined intervals using ELISA. The results demonstrated that both formulations of CoQ10 significantly reduced cytokine levels compared to cisplatin-only treated rats, with the liposomal form yielding superior anti-inflammatory effects. These findings suggest that liposomal CoQ10 may offer a more effective strategy for mitigating inflammation and nephrotoxicity induced by cisplatin.

A Survey Report on Management Practices on Dairy Donkey Farms in Serbia

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

In Serbia, a growing demand for donkey milk is driving an increase in dairy donkey farms. This paper describes the demography and management practices at dairy donkey farms in Serbia using semi-structured face-to-face interviews with their owners. Additionally, microbiology of raw donkey milk was conducted to assess its hygienic quality and safety. The results show that most owners were male, aged over 51, who had not participated in dairy farming training courses (8/9; 88.89%). Most of the farms were located in North Serbia; they were family-run, with more than 20 animals in the herd. At the farms, straw was predominantly used as bedding material. Inadequate bedding hygiene and shelter dustiness were reported in 22.22% and 55.56% of the farms, respectively. Only two owners reported undertaking disinfection procedures for shelters or stables. All donkeys were fed hay supplemented with corn or oats, while wheat bran was provided at two farms. Healthcare measures such as vaccination and dental care were not carried out at the investigated farms, while deworming had never been performed on four of them (44.44%). The most common reported health problems were sudden death, abortion, stillbirth, and laminitis. Fore-milking was not performed on any of the farms. The post-milking procedure involved filtering through cotton gauze, packing in plastic bottles, and then refrigerating and/or freezing the milk, to be later sold at the farm. Presence of food-borne pathogens in raw donkey milk was not detected. Our results could help identify the key problems in country-specific donkey dairy management.

Owner-Reported Detection and Risk Factors of Canine Osteoarthritis: A Cross-Sectional Study

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common degenerative joint disease in dogs, characterized by progressive cartilage deterioration, chronic pain, and reduced mobility. This prospective, cross-sectional study aimed to determine the prevalence of OA-associated pain and identify key risk factors in a cohort of 259 dogs through an owner-completed online survey. The survey incorporated three validated pain and mobility assessment tools: the Liverpool Osteoarthritis in Dogs (LOAD), the Helsinki Chronic Pain Index (HCPI), and the Canine Brief Pain Inventory (CBPI). Dogs exhibiting consistent signs of pain across all three tools (n=56) were selected for a full clinical evaluation, and diagnostic imaging. Most dogs were purebred (80.7%), male (61.8%), overweight (61.0%), and 3-9 years old (57.5%). Pain scores from all three assessment tools revealed significant associations between severity of OA and age, weight category, and body condition score (BCS). Notably, BCS was the strongest predictor of moderate to severe OA, followed by weight category and age. Notably, a discrepancy was observed between owner-reported mobility concerns (28.6%) and the clinical findings, highlighting the limitations of subjective assessment. These findings confirm that advanced age and, more significantly, excess body weight are primary contributors to the severity of canine OA. Furthermore, the study underscores the importance of objective diagnostic tools and owner education in the early identification and management of OA. Preventive strategies, including weight control, regular monitoring, and timely interventions, are crucial for improving outcomes in affected dogs.

Impact of Vaccination Against Influenza A (H1N1)pdm09 Virus on Key Reproductive Performance Indicators in a Subclinically Infected Sow Herd

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Even though viral replication and typical clinical symptoms of the infection in pigs are exclusively limited to the upper and lower respiratory tract, there have been case reports demonstrating correlation of IAV with reproductive health issues in sows, probably related to the effect of cytokines. The trial was conducted in a subclinically infected high-performing 8,000-head sow herd immunised against the influenza A (H1N1)pdm09 virus using RESPIPORC FLUpan H1N1 (Ceva Santé Animale, Libourne, France). The aim of this longitudinal field investigation was to evaluate the alterations in key reproductive performance indicators (i.e. abortion rate, return to oestrus rate, farrowing rate, and number of piglets born alive, stillbirths, and born weak per litter) before and after implementation of the vaccine. A significant improvement in selected indicators was achieved. After implementation of the vaccination against the influenza A (H1N1)pdm09 virus, the mean abortion rate decreased significantly (p=0.0025) in site A, whereas it remained unaffected in Site B. The return to oestrus rate increased significantly (p=0.0091) in Site B only (2.23% to 2.97%). The mean number of piglets born alive increased significantly at both locations (p<0.0001), reaching 17.7 animals per litter in each. The mean number of weak piglets born per litter was not significantly affected. Analysis of the number of mummified and stillborn piglets revealed a significant reduction of these parameters at both locations. The mean farrowing rates were not significantly altered by the vaccination. The findings highlight the role of less obvious problems affecting porcine reproduction.

Evaluation of the Effect of Co-Infection by Mycoplasma gallisepticum (Mg) and E. coli O78 on the Pathogenicity of Avian Influenza (H9N2) in the Spf Chicks

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Co-infection significantly influences disease severity. This study investigated the impact of co-infections with Escherichia coli (E. coli) O78 and Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG), alone and in combination, on the pathogenicity of lowpathogenic avian influenza H9N2 in specific pathogen-free (SPF) chickens. Seventy one-day-old SPF chicks were divided into seven equal groups (G), where G1 is the control one, G2-G4 were infected with H9, MG, and E. coli, respectively, and G5-G7 were co-infected with MG-H9, E. coli-H9, and MG-E. coli-H9, respectively. The study monitored clinical symptoms, mortality rates, H9N2 hemagglutination inhibition antibody titers, viral shedding through qRT-PCR, and histopathological changes in experimentally infected groups. The findings revealed that the group co-infected with all three pathogens had the highest significant mortality rate (70%), with severe clinical symptoms, moderate histopathological changes in the trachea and lungs, along with the highest significant hemagglutination inhibition antibody titers (6.40±0.52, 7.30±0.67 log2) at 7 and 14 days post-infection, respectively. This group also demonstrated the highest viral shedding (3.53±0.01, 4.53±0.09, 3.60±0.05 log10 EID50/ml) at 2, 4, and 7 days post-infection, respectively, with significant differences, and the longest duration of H9N2 shedding (10 days post-infection). In summary, co-infection enhanced the pathogenicity of H9N2; furthermore, co-infection with E. coli O78 increased H9N2 pathogenicity more than co-infection with M. gallisepticum, and the combination of both bacteria resulted in the highest pathogenicity of the H9N2 virus.

Relationship Between Acoustic Characteristics of Dogs’ Sounds and Morphometric Measurements of the Laryngeal Cartilages in Dogs with Various Body Sizes

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 00:00:00 GMT

The present study aimed to explore the connection between the acoustic parameters of dog sounds and the morphometric characteristics of the laryngeal cartilages in dogs with various body sizes. We compared the measurements of the laryngeal cartilages (n=15) of equal number of small, medium, and large size dog cadavers with the acoustic parameters recorded from other dogs of similar size and number. The morphometry was performed with a digital caliper. Animal sounds were analysed with Raven Pro 1.6 software. Waveform and spectrogram graphs were displayed for each sound with 512-point Hann window 50% overlap time. Sound selections were manually verified. Our findings confirmed that small-sized dogs generate the highest pitched barks in every measured frequency (5%-95% and peak). In addition, their vocal signals are of the lowest tonality expressed in sound-to-noise ratio (SNR). The Frequency parameters (F) 5%, 25%, and 95% showed significant correlations with the morphometric values of the laryngeal cartilages, which indicates their role in the sound formation. These acoustic parameters had strong to moderate negative correlations with the thyroid cartilage (TC) width and height; arytenoid cartilage (AC) – distance between proc. corniculatus and proc. cuneiformis (corn-cun), depth of ventricle and distance between the two proc. cuneiformis (cun-cun); width, height and depth of cricoid cartilage (CC); width and height of the epiglottis (EP). Our finding suggested that F5%, F25% and F95% can be reliable parameters and can be used in the classification methods of dogs’ sounds as it varies predictably with laryngeal cartilages size.

Evaluation of Ameliorative Efficacy of Carboplatin with Pioglitazone Through Adiponectin Augmentation by Activating PPAR-γ in High-Fat Diet-Induced Ovarian Cancer in Mice

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Carboplatin is one of the preferred treatments for ovarian cancer. To improve the therapeutic effectiveness of carboplatin in ovarian cancer, the novel combination therapy of carboplatin with the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma agonist pioglitazone was studied in a high-fat diet-induced ovarian cancer model. Thirty Swiss Albino mice (20-35 g) were randomly divided into five groups. Group I received a regular diet, while groups II-V were fed a high-fat diet, with group II serving as the disease control. Groups III-V received carboplatin (133 mg/kg), carboplatin (133 mg/kg) plus pioglitazone (3 mg/kg), and carboplatin (133 mg/kg) plus pioglitazone (9 mg/kg), respectively, for 14 weeks. On day 56 of the study, cancer induction was confirmed by measuring serum lipid profile, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and adiponectin levels. Following this, drug treatment was administered for 6 weeks. On day 98, treatment efficacy was evaluated through serum lipid profiles and pro-inflammatory cytokine levels, and confirmed by ovarian histological studies. The combination therapy of carboplatin and pioglitazone significantly altered serum lipid profiles (TC, TG, LDL, and HDL) and pro-inflammatory cytokine (IL-6, TNF-α, and MCP-1) levels. Additionally, it increased adiponectin levels by activating the PPAR-γ receptor, compared to the disease control. The combination of carboplatin with the PPAR-γ activating ligand pioglitazone enhances the efficacy of carboplatin in ovarian carcinoma by increasing plasma adiponectin levels, which effectively reduces cytokines and chemokines responsible for tumor progression in obesity-induced ovarian cancer.