Veterinární medicína - In Press
Influence of drone brood homogenate on the gut integrity and cellular immunity: a pilot study on pigsOriginal Paper
V Karaffova, D Mudronova, M Levkut, L Rajcakova, Erik Hudec, R Zitnan, P Patras
Drone brood homogenate (DBH), a nutrient-rich bee product, has received limited scientific attention despite its potential immunomodulatory and gut-protective properties. This study evaluated the effects of dietary DBH supplementation on intestinal barrier–related gene expression, phagocytic activity, and lymphocyte subpopulations in pigs. Eighteen weaned pigs were assigned to three groups (control, DBH100, DBH200) and fed DBH at 0, 100, or 200 mg/kg feed for 18 days. Gene expression of tight junction markers (occludin, claudin-1) and mucosal integrity–associated proteins (lumican, OLFM4) was assessed in the ileum by qRT-PCR. Phagocyte function and lymphocyte subpopulations in peripheral blood were analysed using flow cytometry. DBH200 significantly upregulated occludin, claudin-1, lumican, and OLFM4 expression, indicating enhanced intestinal barrier support. Phagocytes from both DBH-treated groups exhibited increased engulfing capacity and elevated oxidative burst index, though the percentage of active phagocytes was only weakly affected. DBH supplementation did not alter total T (CD3+) or B (CD21+) cells; however, both DBH groups showed a significantly increased CD4+:CD8+ lymphocyte ratio, what is consistent with immune stimulation. These findings suggest that DBH may beneficially modulate gut barrier integrity and selected components of innate and adaptive cellular immunity in pigs.
Effect of praziquantel´s 24-hour bath on haematological and biochemical profile and selected parameters of oxidative stress in grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella)Original Paper
R Dobsikova, P Marsalek, J Velisek, J Blahova
This study assessed the effect of a 24-hour bath with praziquantel (2 and 4 mg/l) on grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) by monitoring haematological parameters, plasma biochemical profile, and oxidative stress indices. Fish were sampled at 24-, 48-, 72-, and 96-hours post-exposure (hpe). Haematological analysis revealed a significant increase (P < 0.05) in white blood cell count immediately after treatment at both concentrations, with no subsequent changes. Within the plasma biochemical profile, a significant decrease (P < 0.05) was observed only in chloride (24 hpe at 2 mg/l; 72 hpe at both concentrations) and in magnesium (48 hpe at 2 mg/l). Oxidative stress responses indicated that the gill was the most responsive tissue. In the gill, catalase and glutathione S-transferase activities increased significantly (P < 0.05) at 48 hpe at 4 mg/l. Lipid peroxidation in the gill decreased at 48 hpe but increased at 72 hpe following exposure to 4 mg/l. In the hepatopancreas, glutathione peroxidase activity significantly decreased at 48 hpe at 2 mg/l. In plasma, significant changes (P < 0.05) were detected only in ceruloplasmin activity, which showed a decrease at 72 hpe at 2 mg/l group. These findings provide essential baseline data supporting the potential future application of praziquantel in aquaculture.
The safety of fermented milk as a feedback method to reduce diarrhoea in newborn pigletsOriginal Paper
J Matiasovic, M Zouharova, P Strakova, L Kavanova, D Karasova, J Gebauer, A Csorgo, I Rychlik
Diarrhoea in newborn piglets represents a significant challenge to pig production. Controlled oral exposure, also known as ‘feedback’, whereby sows are exposed at least two weeks before farrowing to pathogens that cause health problems in piglets, is a traditional method of diarrhoea prevention. One type of feedback involves cow’s milk fermented with faeces of piglets suffering diarrhoea, administered to sows before farrowing. The bacterial composition of the faecal inoculum and fermented milk was compared in this study, and the safety of administering it to pregnant sows was evaluated. Using microbiota characterisation by 16S rRNA gene sequencing, the genera Acetobacter, Lactobacillus and Lactococcus formed the core microbiota of the fermented milk. However, Clostridium perfringens was able to form up to 33% of the total microbiota in some fermented milk samples. Interestingly, the drop in pH during the later stages of fermentation inactivated C. perfringens and the samples were thus enriched for inactivated C. perfringens antigen. Our findings contribute to a better understanding of the mode of action of fermented milk when used as a form of feedback.
In vitro comparison of anthelmintic efficacy across Gyrodactylus speciesOriginal Paper
M Ondrackova, J Kolarova, K Skocovska
Gyrodactylosis, caused by monogenean parasites of the genus Gyrodactylus, poses a significant threat to aquaculture, particularly under intensive farming conditions. This study evaluated the in vitro effectiveness of three veterinary anthelmintics - fenbendazole (FBZ), levamisole hydrochloride (LHC), and ivermectin (IVM) - against four Gyrodactylus species collected from wild cyprinid hosts. Parasite survival was monitored over 48 hours at 6–7 °C. LHC showed the highest efficacy at both tested concentrations (30 and 50 mg/l), achieving near-complete mortality within 8 hours. FBZ and IVM were significantly less effective, with 23% and 33% of parasites surviving, respectively. Species-specific differences in drug susceptibility were observed, particularly with FBZ and IVM, with G. carassii showing consistently higher sensitivity than G. laevis, G. rutilensis, and G. vimbi. Lower water temperatures probably contributed to reduced drug efficacy and prolonged parasite survival. These findings highlight the importance of species-level evaluation and temperature considerations when selecting anthelmintic treatments for gyrodactylosis. In vitro testing under controlled conditions offers valuable insights into parasite susceptibility and complements in vivo approaches. Further research incorporating broader parasite diversity, temperature ranges, and pharmacological profiles is recommended to optimise treatment strategies in aquaculture.
Establishment of an experimental pig model for the induction of Staphylococcus hyicus skin infectionOriginal Paper
K Matiaskova, M Reichelova, E Jeklova, M Zouharova, S Kobzova, K Nedbalcova, J Matiasovic, M Faldyna
Staphylococcus hyicus is one of the causative agents of exudative epidermitis in pigs. The aim of this study was to establish a porcine challenge model of skin infection with S. hyicus for the purpose of testing of the effectiveness of a medicinal product intended for local application. Based on the results of presence of toxin encoding genes and antimicrobial resistance (detected resistance to clindamycin, penicilin, ampicilin, erythromycin and tetracycline), three field strains were selected for the trial. At D0, six surface defects were created on the back of six piglets. The defects were inoculated with bacterium in two different concentrations - 1×108 or 1×109 CFU/ml. Every day for the duration of the experiment, pigs were monitored and rectal temperature was measured. On D4, D9 and D14 visual evaluation and indirect bacteriological imprints of defects were performed. Crusts were present from D9 and a lower concentration of bacteria led to the lower secretion and creation of crusts. Based on the results of bacterial cultivation of indirect imprints, however, S. hyicus was present in higher amounts in wound defects infected with the lower concentration of bacteria. As there were differences in obtained results among the strains used, it can be concluded that the strain marked as CAPM 6689 seems to be the most applicable and the lower concentration was enough for the infection development.
Dairy bull sperm subpopulations behavior in frozen-thawed semen across breed, temperature, and thawing timeOriginal Paper
F Sevilla, I Araya-Zuniga, JM Solis, C Corcini, P Cervantes-Acosta, A Hernandez-Beltran, R Molina-Montero, D Pichardo-Matamoros, A Valverde
To optimise dairy cattle reproduction with assisted reproductive technologies such as artificial insemination requires standardised semen handling and analysis. This study evaluated the kinematic spermatozoan subpopulation structure in frozen-thawed Holstein and Jersey bull semen doses across different thawing protocols. We used frozen semen doses taken from four bulls of each breed. Nine semen doses were collected from each animal, for a total of 72 cryopreserved doses. Straw thawing was performed at three temperatures (35 °C, 37 °C, and 40 °C) and three times (30 s, 40 s, and 45 s). Sperm kinematic patterns were evaluated using a CASA-mot system (ISAS®v1). Sperm kinematic variables for each breed, temperature, and thawing time identified four subpopulations. The analysis revealed an effect of breed and semen thawing protocols (P < 0.05) on sperm subpopulation distribution, sperm movement, and swimming patterns. Subpopulation analyses based on semen assessment are needed to further interpret the relevance and effect on fertility.
Pulsed electromagnetic fields vs. NSAID therapy in canine osteoarthritis: A randomised comparative pilot studyOriginal Paper
S Sassaroli, F Dini, V Sisti, V Riccio, S Meggiolaro, L Bellodi, A Palumbo Piccionello
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are a cornerstone in the management of canine osteoarthritis (OA), despite concerns regarding their long-term safety. Among non-pharmacological alternatives, pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) therapy has gained attention for its potential analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, although veterinary-specific evidence remains limited.This randomised, controlled pilot study compared the clinical efficacy of PEMF therapy versus NSAID treatment (Mavacoxib) in 16 dogs with clinically and radiographically confirmed OA. Dogs were randomly assigned to receive either a 12-session PEMF protocol over 45 days or a standard Mavacoxib regimen. Clinical evaluations included pain scores (VAS), pain on palpation, lameness severity (NRS), gait analysis (GLS and TPI), muscle circumference, and radiographic progression. Assessments were performed at baseline (T0), 30 days (T1), and 60 days (T2).PEMF therapy showed earlier improvements in pain, lameness, and muscle mass, and a favourable trend in joint mobility. No significant differences were detected in gait or radiographic parameters between groups. These preliminary findings suggest the non-inferiority of PEMF compared to NSAIDs and highlight its potential role in multimodal OA management. Limitations include small sample size and short follow-up. Further studies are needed to confirm these preliminary results in larger cohorts.
Presumed atypical cor triatriatum dexter in a geriatric dog: A case reportCase Report
Y Jeong, D Kwon, K Park, K Lee, H Yoon
Membranous structures within the right atrium (RA), such as the Chiari network, eustachian valve, Thebesian valve, and cor triatriatum dexter (CTD), can present with overlapping imaging features and complicated diagnoses. A 17-year-old male Maltese presented with a cardiac murmur, cough, anorexia, and exercise intolerance. Echocardiography revealed a mobile membrane in the RA that divided it into two chambers. Computed tomography (CT) confirmed this finding, showing differential contrast attenuation between the chambers. The vascular connections and anatomical relationships of the structure differed from those of previously reported CTD types. Although other sinus venosus valve remnants were considered, the findings supported a provisional diagnosis of atypical CTD. This case highlights the utility of multimodal imaging for the characterisation of right atrial membranous structures. In human medicine, a detailed anatomical comparison of sinus venosus valve remnants aids in the differential diagnosis. Applying a similar approach in veterinary medicine, especially in geriatric patients, may improve diagnostic accuracy. Comprehensive imaging evaluations, including echocardiography and CT, are recommended for assessing RA membranes that could be misinterpreted as variants of the CTD or other embryological remnants.
Bovine mastitis: risk factors and isolation of Gram-negative bacteria in western AlgeriaOriginal Paper
C Bounoua, D Souna, MEA Bekara, I Belabdi, M Sebaihia, N Mimoune
A cross-sectional study was conducted in western Algeria between February and October 2024, aimed at determining the prevalence of bovine mastitis, Gram-negative bacilli, and their associated risk factors. A total of 524 cows were sampled using clinical examination and the California mastitis test. Milk samples from the affected quarter were subjected to bacteriological assays. Three generalised linear mixed models were used to identify the risk factors for clinical (CM) and subclinical (SCM) mastitis, as well as Gram-negative bacilli isolates associated with bovine mastitis. Model selection was performed using the Akaike information criterion. The prevalence of mastitis was 59.7% at the cow level, of which 12.6% was CM and 47.14% SCM. Overall, 65.4% of cows showed a positive culture for Gram-negative bacilli. The most commonly isolated bacteria were Escherichia spp. (44%), Klebsiella spp. (23.1%), and Pseudomonas spp. (11.6%). Parity, contact with visitors, and daily milk yield (l/day) were identified as risk factors for SCM in dairy cows. However, the administration of foremilk reduced the risk of developing SCM. History of mastitis, udder injuries, udder and leg hygiene scores, and parity were identified as risk factors for CM. Nevertheless, none of the variables examined were risk factors for udder infection by Gram-negative bacilli isolates.
Additive effects of Ceftiofur-Neomycin combination against multidrug-resistant pathogenic Escherichia coli in a murine infection modelOriginal Paper
K-H Do, M-G Kim, D-H Ryu, H-J Ahn, S-B Kim, Y-K Go, SY Kim, S Kim, S-H Lee, D-K Kim, Y-E Cho, J Kim, YK Park, K Youn, H Oh, K-W Seo
The aim of this study was to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of a ceftiofur–neomycin combination against a pathogenic multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli strain, KECS-0513, isolated from pigs, using a combination of genomic, in vitro, and in vivo approaches. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), minimum bactericidal concentration, and checkerboard assays were performed. Time–kill assays were used to assess bactericidal activity over time, and a murine intraperitoneal infection model was used to evaluate survival outcomes following treatment with monotherapies or combination regimens. Whole genome sequencing indicated that KECS-0513 harboured multiple resistance genes, including blaTEM-1B, sul3, aadA12, aad(3)-IVa, aph(3’)-Ia, and aph(4)-Ia. The resistance genes were localised within a mobile, element-rich plasmid. In vitro checkerboard assays indicated an additive interaction between ceftiofur and neomycin (fractional inhibitory concentration index = 1.0), and time–kill experiments showed enhanced sustained bacterial clearance with combination therapy. In vivo infection studies in mice demonstrated that the dual treatment resulted in a substantially higher survival rate (66.7%) than treatment with either agent alone (33.3% each). These results support the practical application of ceftiofur–neomycin combination therapy for controlling swine-associated multidrug-resistant E. coli while minimising the risk of resistance emergence.
The inhibition of deep peritoneal endometriosis by andrographolide through macrophage M1 activity in an endometriosis mice modelOriginal Paper
IA Susianto, N Susilaningsih, ST Hidayat, Hardian, RR Tjandrawinata, B Rachmawati
This study aims to demonstrate that andrographolide, an herbal immunostimulant, can influence M1 macrophages to inhibit inflammation, including the growth of endometriosis caused by inflammation. This study evaluates the effects of andrographolide on suppressing endometriosis through M1 macrophage activity. This post-test-only experimental study involved 42 female Balb/C mice, which were divided into six groups: Group N, KN (endometriosis without therapy), and KP (endometriosis + dienogest), P1 (endometriosis with 0.05 mg/kg), P2 (endometriosis + 0.1 mg/kg andrographolide), and P3 (endometriosis + 0.2 mg/kg andrographolide). Peritoneal fluid was aspirated, and the peritoneum was cut and stretched to observe the extent of endometriosis. This study compared the formation of ectopic endometrial lesions and analysed the ratio of M1 to M2 in each group that received standard therapy versus andrographolide therapy. The results from peritoneal fluid flow cytometry indicated that M1 was more dominant than M2 in comparison to KP. The levels of M2 in the P2 and P3 groups were also significantly lower than in the KN group. This study demonstrated that andrographolide may enhance the regulation of M1 macrophage differentiation, acting as a precursor to endometriosis growth by suppressing M2 phenotypes that promote the condition.
Ocular squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) in a female buffaloCase Report
R Batista Viana, A Araujo Borges Lima, JM de Sousa Soares, G Meireles Borges, D Araujo Marques, SM da Silva Lobato, D de Menezes Melo, JC Melem Santos, L do Socorro Bremgarter, PE Zezema, S da Gama Barbosa Monger, G Melo Alves dos Santos, PP Maia Teixeira, G Rodrigues Galvão, J Dantas Ribeiro Filho, B Moura Monteiro
Ocular squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is an epithelial neoplasm that affects the ocular and periocular tissues, often associated with factors such as exposure to ultraviolet radiation. The disease is rarely reported in buffalo, particularly with regard to its progression and treatment. This report describes a case of a buffalo with a pink mass in the right eye showing signs of inflammation. After clinical examination and initial treatment with topical solutions and systemic drugs, the tumour continued to grow. As a result, surgery was performed to remove the mass while preserving the eyeball and third eyelid. The procedure was successful and histopathological analysis confirmed the diagnosis of OSCC. Postoperative recovery was satisfactory. It was concluded that surgical treatment followed by medical treatment, when performed early, allowed complete recovery of the buffalo with OSCC.
Effect of bacteriophages on growth performance and health indicators in broiler chickens in the absence of bacterial challenge – A reviewReview
MA Mohd Shaufi, SL Chia, H Abu Hassim, MT Yusof, MA Akbar, AAL Song, S Mustafa
This review examines bacteriophages as alternatives to antibiotic growth promoters (AGPs) in broiler chickens, uniquely focusing on effects in studies without experimental bacterial challenges. Driven by global antimicrobial resistance (AMR) concerns and sustainable poultry production demands, phage supplementation, a targeted strategy, potentially improves growth performance and gut health by preserving beneficial microbiota. This literature analysis assesses phage efficacy in healthy broilers under these non-challenge conditions, evaluating key variables like phage concentration, delivery, and targets, plus outcomes like feed conversion ratio (FCR) and gut health markers. Crucially, this review extends beyond efficacy to explore phage immunomodulatory capabilities, outlines optimisation strategies, and addresses risks and mitigation. Key findings show mixed efficacy of phages in non-challenged broilers: significant FCR and gut health improvements were generally observed with high phage concentrations (e.g., ≥108 PFU/g) and continuous delivery protocols, while inconsistent or lower doses yielded minimal benefits. Furthermore, choosing which bacteria phages target—for example, aiming at pathogens like Salmonella or managing common gut bacteria such as E. coli—greatly impacts outcomes. While phages show considerable potential as AGP alternatives, the review highlights that further research is vital for resolving inconsistencies, standardizing protocols, and understanding host genetic and environmental influences to optimise commercial application.