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Afforestation is an essential strategy for erosion control. The objective of this study was to determine the soil quality index (SQI) in established afforested areas of different ages for erosion control in Erzurum, Turkey. Three afforested areas were selected as plots considering their establishment periods: + 40 years old (AA_>40), 10-40 years old (AA_10-40), and less than 10 years old (AA_<10). Forty soil samples were taken in each plot area over the 0-15 and 15-30 cm depths. The soil samples were analysed for the texture, mean weight diameter, aggregate stability, pH, electrical conductivity, total nitrogen, total carbon, and total sulfur contents. These properties were used as the soil quality indicators, whereby the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and principal component analysis (PCA) were used to establish their relative importance for describing the soil quality. The indicators were scored using the linear score functions of "more is better" and "optimum value". For determining the SQI, the additive method (SQI_A), the weighted method with AHP (SQI_AHP), and the weighted method with PCA (SQI_PCA) were used. The SQI scores of the plots showed statistically significant differences. In all three methods, the highest SQI value was obtained from the AA_>40 plots.

In the last few years, it has become easier to diagnose congenital brain malformations in dog's ante-mortem. This is probably due to the wider availability of advanced diagnostic imaging, in particular computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Despite this, there is still not much literature available about potential treatments, outcome and overall prognosis with respect to the patient's quality of life. We present three cases of Dandy-Walker malformation in Polish hunting dogs with up to five years follow up including assessment of their quality of life. A nine-week-old Polish hunting dog was presented with progressive signs of ataxia that had developed over the preceding few weeks. MRI revealed a Dandy-Walker malformation. The dog underwent MRI at the ages of 12 and 36 months, and his neurological condition was followed for five years. No other subsequent abnormities were found on further diagnostic tests. The dog showed transient behavioural problems which improved after castration and training. The ataxia seen at first visit improved with time and intensive physiotherapy, and the dog was considered to have a good quality of life in the owner's eyes. A further two cases shared a similar disease course. Dandy-Walker malformation was confirmed with MRI, but diagnostic imaging could not be reported here because the owner did not consent to publication. The Dandy-Walker malformations described in these three Polish hunting dogs had a stable disease course and revealed that dogs suffering from this condition may have a good quality of life, providing no other abnormalities are detected and rehabilitation is performed.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of deslorelin acetate in the regulation of reproductive activity in captive leopard geckos (Eublepharis macularius). Fourteen healthy adult females were separated into two groups. Under general anaesthesia, deslorelin acetate implants (4.7 mg) or placebo implants were administered into the coelom of ten female geckos and four female geckos, respectively. One healthy adult male Leopard gecko was added to each group of females (five females with GnRH implants and two females with placebo implants). The geckos were regularly monitored over two breeding seasons (visual examination, weight control). Nesting sites were checked daily. There were no postoperative complications or any other health problems during the study. Implant administration did not result in long-term suppression of reproductive function. No significant differences were found in the number of clutches between the female groups (deslorelin implants versus placebo implants) or in the number of clutches between the two breeding seasons. Deslorelin acetate implants did not interfere with ovarian activity in captive female leopard geckos. The use of GnRH agonist implants is not an appropriate method for control of reproductive function in female leopard geckos.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the occupational radiation exposure levels of veterinary staff during fluoroscopic examination using thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs). A prospective study was conducted to measure radiation doses in three positioned persons (two restrainers and one observer) using TLDs. The TLDs were placed on the inside and outside of the lead-equivalent protective devices of the panorama mask, thyroid shield, apron and arm shield. The TLDs were placed at five anatomic sites (eye, thyroid, breast, gonad and hand). Radiation exposure was measured in 65 fluoroscopic examinations at 80 kVp and 100 mAs. The doses (mSv) (outside/inside the shield) measured in restrainers A and B and observer C were 3.09/0.59, 3.80/0.65 and 0.63/0.44 in the eye; 2.20/0.73, 1.88/1.10 and 0.79/0.45 in the thyroid; 3.42/0.44, 3.94/2.35 and 0.61/0.34 in the breast; 1.84/0.45, 1.69/0.23 and 0.46/0.36 in the gonad; and 5.56/3.16, 8.29/2.99 and 0.79/0.34 in the hand, respectively. Out of all the lead protection devices, the radiation dose of the hand was the highest in all three participants, with the thyroid radiation dose value being the same as the hand in the observer C. Radiation doses received by the eyes of all three participants were also not negligible. Veterinary workers exposed to radiation through not only radiography but also fluoroscopy should wear protective gear, especially for the eyes.

The purpose of this study was to compare the in vitro digestibility levels and chemical compositions of commercial extruded dry-type adult dog foods with different types of protein contents [fish meat (F-dog foods) (n = 7), lamb meat (L-dog foods) (n = 9), or poultry meat (P-dog foods) (n = 8)]. The in vitro digestion values of premium commercial dog foods were examined at three stages: gastric digestion, small intestine digestion and large intestine digestion/fermentation. The metabolisable energy (ME), crude protein (CP), starch, diethyl ether extract (EE) and ash contents and the in vitro cumulative gas production values of all the premium dog foods differed significantly among the commercial brands in the same category (F-, L- or P-dog foods) (P < 0.05). The crude fibre (CF) and the CP/1 000 kcal ME values of the F- and P-dog foods demonstrated a significant difference among the commercial brands (P < 0.05). The organic matter disappearance (OMd) values of the L-dog foods showed a significant difference among the commercial brands (P < 0.05); but the OMd values of the F- and P-dog foods did not differ among the commercial brands (P > 0.05). The average values of the OMd for the F-dog foods were more rapid than the average for the L- and P-dog foods, in the evaluation of all the foods (P = 0.001). Besides, the price of the L-dog foods was positively correlated with the OMd and CP of the L-dog foods; however, it was negatively correlated with the NFE (nitrogen free extract) and CHO (total carbohydrates) of the L-dog foods (P < 0.05). The CP values of the L-dog foods were positively correlated with the OMd values (P < 0.05). Although price is an important determinant of food quality in the L-dog foods, it is not in the F- and P-dog foods. In the general evaluation of all the dog foods, there was no correlation among the food price and the digestibility and the nutrient content for all of the premium dog foods. The present study indicated that the energy, nutrient matter and digestibility of premium dog foods changed with the change in the variety and the amount of the feedstuffs. The digestibility of the dog foods with the fish meat were higher than those of the other dog foods. The amount of protein that an adult dog will receive with 1 000 kcal of DM (dry matter) consumption of premium dog foods with fish meat and chicken meat, varied among the brands. This point showed the need to pay attention to the food consumption amount of the dogs and the energy-protein balance in their diets, especially dog foods with fish meat and chicken meat.

A visual clinical gait analysis is useful, however, it may overlook small, but important, details about the movement, as well as differences between the normal and pathological locomotion. The branch of mechanics that describes the spatial and temporal components of motion is called kinematics, providing quantitative data regarding linear and angular motion. The objective of this study was to establish kinematic gait data of healthy American Pit Bull Terriers and to contribute to the understanding of the locomotion. We evaluated the articular and pelvic angles, and the spatiotemporal variables for walking and trotting from eleven dogs with no previous history of joint and musculoskeletal diseases. Twenty reflective markers were positioned at the anatomical points of interest. The animals walked and trotted in a linear space, led by the same researcher. The kinematic data were collected through optoelectronic cameras and analysed by motion analysis software. The movements analysed during the gait phases were the flexion, extension, range of motion (ROM), angle at the moment of the support phase, stride length and velocity. Comparing the angles between walking and trotting, there were more expressive differences for the pelvic limb joints. There was no difference between the left and right sides at all of the joint angles of the pelvic limbs during walking and trotting. Therefore, the movement of the pelvic limb is symmetrical in both trotting and walking. Our results present reference values for healthy American Pit Bull Terriers, having clinical relevance for studies of dogs with musculoskeletal diseases.

Modulation of the immune system through nutrition is the aim of many studies. As the induction of a rapid onset of immunity in cats is often critical, the objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of orally administered dietary nucleotides and cationic peptides, on the vaccination response in cats. The cats were allocated to two groups: Group A (n = 8) was fed a diet with dietary nucleotides and cationic peptides for ninety-two days, and Group C (n = 8) was fed a diet without the nucleotides and cationic peptides. The cats were vaccinated against feline herpesvirus 1 (FHV-1), feline calicivirus (FCV) and feline panleukopenia virus (FPV). The proliferation activity of lymphocytes and antibody response after vaccination were evaluated using ELISA kits. Comparing the two groups, a significant increase in the proliferation activity of the lymphocytes (P < 0.01) was observed in Group A, as well as a significant increase in the antibody titres after vaccination against feline herpesvirus (P < 0.05; P < 0.001), feline calicivirus (P < 0.01; P < 0.001) and feline panleukopenia virus (P < 0.01; P < 0.001). Protective levels of the antibodies were reached significantly earlier in Group A than in Group C. In conclusion, dietary nucleotides and cationic peptides have a positive effect on the lymphocyte proliferation and antibody production after vaccination against FHV-1, FCV and FPV in cats. Therefore, we assume that they can be used as a suitable immunostimulatory substance in feline practice.

The African Grey parrot (Psittacus erithacus) is one of the most popular avian pets in exotic animal practice. In this study, blood samples (n = 459) from healthy African Grey parrots (n = 239) were collected for haematological testing. Reference intervals were determined according to the guidelines of the American Society of Veterinary Clinical Pathology with the Reference Value Advisor (v2.1) freeware. The calculated reference intervals (RIs) were: packed cell volume 38-59%; haemoglobin 105-154 g/l; RBC 2.3-3.3 10⁶/µl; MCV 145.5-199.7 fl; MHC 38.3-55.6 pg; MCHC 232-313 g/l; WBC 2.7-12.6 10³/µl; heterophils 1.2-10.2 10³/µl; lymphocytes 0.8-4.3 10³/µl; monocytes 0.0-0.6 10³/µl; basophils 0.0-0.1 10³/µl; eosinophils 0.0-0.2 10³/µl. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study in psittacines to use such a high number of birds and samples to establish haematological species-specific RIs, providing a valuable tool to professionals dealing with the health of African Grey parrots.

A 10-year-old Schnauzer presented with a 1-month history of vomiting, anorexia, and abdominal pain, and a recently detected intra-abdominal mass. The round, soft-tissue opacity masses identified on the radiography in the left mid-abdomen were confirmed as multifocal, cystic masses via ultrasonography. The necrotic masses mimicked an intra-abdominal neoplasia on the initial imaging examinations. The computed tomography (CT) clearly showed encapsulated masses with a necrotic fluid arising from the left limb of the pancreas and extending to the peripancreatic, paracolic, and perigastric regions. Based on the multimodal imaging, surgical exploration, and histopathology, the mass was diagnosed as a walled-off pancreatic necrosis (WOPN). CT is an effective diagnostic modality for diagnosing acute pancreatitis in WOPN.

A 2-year-old multiparous (Case 1) and a 2.5-year-old nulliparous (Case 2) Djungarian hamster each presented with a history of a prolapsed mass from the vulva. A partial uterine prolapse was diagnosed in both cases, according to the clinical and diagnostic examinations. The prolapsed mass was replaced in each hamster, and an ovariohysterectomy was performed. The histopathological examination of the removed tissues revealed a cyst and papillary hyperplasia in the ovary. This first case report, to our knowledge, demonstrates the possibility of a uterine prolapse with a cyst and papillary hyperplasia in the ovary and how to surgically manage this condition. The report could also contribute to having a better understanding of the occurrence of a uterine prolapse without parturition in hamsters.

The main goal of this study was to find a link between colostrum and the 1-day-old lamb serum γ-glutamyltransferase (GGT) activity and immunoglobulin G (IgG) concentration and their relation with neonatal diseases and beyond. Further, to set a linear relationship between the serum GGT activity (SGGTA) and the IgG concentration (SIgGC) in different days of the neonatal period, thereby determining the feasibility of the GGT activity in the prediction of the colostrum quality and passive immunity and to define a cut-off point for the SGGTA associated with an increased risk of illness or death in lambs. For this purpose, blood samples were obtained from the lambs before the colostrum intake (day 0) and on different days (1, 2, 4, 7, 14 and 28) in the neonatal period. The colostrum was collected from the respective ewes (n = 254) related to the lambs. The most accurate (R² = 0.652) model for predicting the SIgGC or passive immune status was the multiple regression model developed to calculate ln[IgG] from ln[GGT] in healthy neonatal lambs using the serum GGT and IgG values of day 0, 1, 2, 4, 7, 14 and 28. The In[GGT] activity at 24 h after birth in lambs that died or became ill during the neonatal period accounted for approximately 77% and 88% of the variation in the ln[IgG] concentration at 24 h after birth, respectively. The study revealed that SGGTA-24 > 500 IU may be considered as a critical cut-off point for the adequate colostral passive transfer. This study also disclosed that the colostral GGT activity might be used as an indicator to determine the colostrum quality.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the postoperative temporal changes in the tibial plateau angle (TPA) after a tibial plateau levelling osteotomy (TPLO) in dogs. The TPA of thirty-two dogs were measured before surgery (TPA₁), immediately after the TPLO (TPA₂), and later at the healing of the osteotomy site (TPA₃). Three observers carried out three TPA measurements for each patient at the time of the evaluation. TPA changes were observed over the bone healing (2.05 ± 3.05°); however, no statistical significance was noted when comparing TPA₃ and TPA₁. There were no statistical differences in the inter-observer measurements among TPA₁, TPA₂, and TPA₃ (P > 0.05). The comparison between the preoperative TPA₁ and the rock back showed a low positive correlation (S = 4 735.9, P = 0.471 5, r = 0.131 976 9). There was also a low positive correlation between the body weight (kg) and the change in the TPA during the bone healing (S = 4 581.8, P = 0.381, r = 0.160 234 7). Although changes in the TPA have been observed over the time of the bone healing, they were not influenced by the preoperative and postoperative TPA, or by the body weight. The magnitude of the variation in the TPA is not determined by the previous inclination or by the degree of rotation in the plateau.

The aim of the study was to compare the heart rate, QRS interval, and R wave amplitude across three electrocardiogram models, and assess the ability of each of them to provide electrocardiograms (ECG) for clinical interpretation. The three electrocardiogram models included ECG Seiva Praktik Veterinary, CardioStore ECG and AliveCor Veterinary Heart Monitor. The data were collected from twelve healthy adult captive green iguanas (Iguana iguana) monitored under a manual restraint at a room temperature of 22.6-28.0 °C. The ECGs using the Seiva Praktik and CardioStore ECG veterinary electrocardiography were performed with standard 4 lead ECG recordings. The AliveCor Veterinary Heart Monitor was placed (with the use of gel) directly on the lateral body wall. The mean heart rate was 42 ± 8 beats/min (CardioStore), 50 ± 11 beats/min (Seiva Praktik Veterinary), and 51 ± 9 beats/min (AliveCor Veterinary Heart Monitor). No significant difference in the heart rate was observed. A significant difference (P < 0.05) in the QRS duration was observed between the CardioStore and AliveCor Veterinary Heart Monitor. Significant differences (P < 0.01) in the R wave amplitude were detected between the CardioStore and AliveCor Veterinary Heart Monitor and between the Seiva Praktik Veterinary and AliveCor Veterinary Heart Monitor. The ECGs produced by the Seiva Praktik VVeeterinary and CardioStore machines were interpretable at 100%, while those produced by the AliveCor Veterinary Heart Monitor were interpretable at 66%. Seiva Praktik Veterinary is most appropriately used as an anaesthesia monitoring tool. AliveCor Veterinary Heart Monitor could be used as an additional diagnostic tool, but the results should be ideally confirmed with a standard ECG machine. Seiva Praktik Veterinary is the most appropriate tool for monitoring the ECG within the anaesthesia, while CardioStore might be most appropriately used as an advanced diagnostic tool by virtue of its software assistance. The ECGs obtained with AliveCor Veterinary Heart Monitor should be confirmed using a standard ECG machine.

The aim of this study was to document the detection rate of the beak and feather disease virus (BFDV) and avian polyomavirus (APV) across clinically healthy captive parrots in the Czech Republic. The presence of the BFDV and APV was tested using a nested polymerase chain rection (PCR) in 177 parrots originating from 34 facilities (breeding facilities, private owners). Positive BFDV results came from 38 parrots (21.5%) within 12 facilities (35.3%). Two parrots (1.1%) originating from two different facilities (5.9%) tested positive for APV. The results show a high detection rate of BFDV in the clinically healthy captive parrot populations in the Czech Republic. Preventive measures to stop the spread of this virus are, thus, essential.

A diagnosis of a diffuse splenic large B-cell lymphoma with multinucleated giant cells in a 5-year-old mare was made based upon the clinical, pathological, and immunohistochemical findings. The enormous primary splenic mass weighed 51.75 kg. To the best of our knowledge, this is the biggest reported splenic mass and the first case of an equine diffuse large B-cell lymphoma with multinucleated giant cells.

Spotty liver disease is an acute bacterial disease that affects the poultry industry throughout the world. In this report, we discuss the first documented outbreak of the recently emerging disease, spotty liver disease, in a poultry flock in Jordan. The clinical history, pathological and molecular findings are described. The outbreak was characterised by recurrent mortalities that subsided with antibiotic treatments. Grossly, there were multiple pinpoint white foci distributed throughout the enlarged liver and less frequently throughout the spleen too. Histologically, the white foci represented areas of acute hepatocellular lytic necrosis and degeneration that were consistent with those of spotty liver disease. An end point polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay targeting the glycerol kinase gene, coupled with sequencing, confirmed the pathological diagnosis. Continuous surveillance is needed to estimate the prevalence of this disease in Jordanian poultry flocks.

The objective of this study was to produce a Carbopol 940 based gel formula containing an Azadirachta indica leaf extract and evaluate its wound healing potential. The ethanolic extract was derived from the dried leaves of Azadirachta indica and was subjected to a phytochemical evaluation. Three gel formulations of Carbopol 940 containing an Azadirachta indica extract in three different concentrations, i.e., 1, 2, and 3% w/w were prepared. These gels were evaluated for their physical appearance, stability, antimicrobial activity, extrudability, skin irritability, pH, spreadability, and viscosity. The prepared formulas were stable, greenish and homogeneous. None of them showed irritation to the skin. The spreadability (g.cm/sec), viscosity (cps), and pH of all three formulations was 34.68, 53 270-65 400, and 6-7, respectively. Gel-III exhibited the highest antimicrobial potential against E. coli and P. aeruginosa with a zone of inhibition of 16.2 ± 0.6 mm and 15.6 ± 0.6 mm, respectively. It was revealed from the wound healing studies that the epithelialisation time for the Albino rabbits treated with Gel-III was 23 days. The Albino rabbits treated with Gel-I, Gel-II, a standard gel, and those with the untreated one (control), epithelialised in 27, 25, 26, and 34 days, respectively. A formulation containing 3% w/w extract showed better antimicrobial activity, physicochemical characteristics, and pharmacological parameters than the other formulations. It can be concluded that the wound healing process was faster with the gel formulation containing 3% w/w of the Azadirachta indica extract, proposing that this formulation is a promising candidate for wound healing.

The aim of this paper was to investigate the effects of microwave radiation on the viability of Paenibacillus larvae spores and to study the relationship between the microwave power consumption, the exposure time and the number of spores in the examined suspensions. Sterile distilled water suspensions were made using larval detritus, to contain tens, hundreds and thousands of spores. The suspensions of all the dilutions were gradually exposed to a microwave radiation power of 170, 510 and 850 W. In all the cases, the exposure time was 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30 minutes. After cooling, 0.1 ml of each exposed suspension was inoculated onto three modified MYP (mannitol egg yolk polymyxin) agar plates and incubated aerobically at 37 ± 1 °C for 120 hours. The statistical evaluation of the spore counts decreasing with time was performed with the use of the nonparametric Friedman's variance test using the Unistat Statistical Package v6.5. The results showed that the rate of devitalisation of the spores is dependent on the microwave oven power consumption, but independent of the number of spores. Using a power consumption of 170, 510 and 850 W, the devitalisation of the spores occurred after 15, 3 and 2 min of exposure, respectively.

Infectious keratoconjunctivitis (IKC) has not been observed in European deer (Cervus elaphus). Our case concerned two red deer bulls in a natural environment, which had orientation disorders and/or circle movement. A detailed post-mortem examination of one of the bulls revealed extensive conjunctivitis in both eyes, clouding and ulceration of the cornea. There were no lesions in the other organs, particularly in the central nervous system (CNS). The histopathological examination of the eyeballs showed corneal epithelium erosions and vascularisation and an inflammatory infiltration of the stroma. Descemet's membrane was found to be disrupted and the corneal stroma was fused with the iris. The remaining structure of the eye did not show any lesions. Furthermore, the polymerase chain reaction analysis for OvHV-1, BHV-1, BHV-5, CapHV-1, CcHV-1, and EHV-1 showed negative results. In the agar culture, only single bacteria were present. There were no Thelazia spp. worms in the conjunctival sac, but numerous Lipoptena cervi flies were present on the skin in the eye region and on the corneal surface. The findings of our case study and those reported in the literature suggest that IKC is a polyetiological disease, where the composition of the pathogenic agents may differ from case to case. The present study suggests that the mechanical irritation of L. cervi parasites could be a contributing factor to the corneal damage, infection and chronic inflammation resulting in a loss of vision in red deer.

This case report describes the surgical treatment of a grade II mast cell tumour in the vulvar region of a 4-year-old female Miniature Pinscher dog. The patient weighed 2 kg, and the tumour measured 2 cm in diameter. The surgery involved an episiotomy, a partial vaginectomy, and a subsequent urethroplasty. Due to the patient's small size, the surgical margins were set at 2 cm laterally and 2 cm deep, which meant that the entire vulva, as well as the ventral part of the vaginal canal had to be removed. Afterwards, the urethral ostium was elliptically fixed to the skin at the end of the urethroplasty. The follow-up evaluations revealed an excellent recovery without metastasis or recurrence over the following two years.

The present study was conducted to determine the histological and histomorphometric variations in the tongue, oesophagus, proventriculus, and gizzard of ostriches (Struthio camelus) with regards to the sex and advancing age. A total of 40 healthy ostriches of both sexes and five age groups; young (up to 1 year, 1 to 2 years and 2 to 3 years) and adult (3 to 4 years and above 4 years) in equal numbers (n = 8) were used in this study. The organs under study were collected immediately after slaughtering the birds. Overall, the colour, shape, weight and various dimensions (length, width, and diameter) of the collected organs were recorded. The mean values of the gross anatomical variables of the studied organs increased (P < 0.05) among all the young groups (i.e., from 1 to 2 years, 2 to 3 years). Similarly, the organs under study in the adult groups (birds aged 3 to 4 years and above 4 years) grew (P < 0.05) as well. However, the differences between the adults were not significant. The histological analysis and histometric measurements were conducted on paraffin embedded tissue sections with Image J^® analysis software. The statistical analysis revealed a significant increase in the thickness of the different tunics of the digestive organs in all the groups except those the adult groups. These findings may be of importance for the strategic manipulation of feed and nutrition to enhance the growth rate and also to diagnose pathological processes.

A nuclear accident (e.g., Fukushima), and, in particular, the transport of animals within a radiation-affected area can lead to a whole-body, or partial external irradiation, followed by oxidative stress, which could result in subsequent meat quality changes. In this experiment, live pigs were exposed to half-body irradiation by an external dose of 1.0 Gy. The caudal half of the animal's body was irradiated. After their slaughter, samples from the muscle tissue of musculus semimembranosus and musculus longissimus lumborum et thoracis at the upper margin of musculus gluteus medius (irradiated body half) and at the 3^rd-4^th thoracic vertebra (non-irradiated half) were collected to determine the meat quality parameters. A significant difference (P < 0.05) was observed only in the meat colour parameter (a*) in the irradiated group of pigs. If there is no internal contamination, and the half-body exposure to the external radiation dose does not exceed 1 Gy, pigs from an irradiation-affected area may be used for human consumption.

This work aimed to evaluate the valorisation of the volatile oil of "Rosmarinus officinalis L.", a spontaneously growing medicinal plant in Tunisia, by studying its chemical composition, anthelmintic and anticoccidial potentials against Eimeria spp. and Haemonchus contortus at different essential oil concentrations. The main compounds of the R. officinalis essential oil identified by GC/MS were three monoterpenes: 1,8-cineole (52.06%), α-pinene (15.35%) and camphor (7.69%). The anticoccidial activity was estimated by the inhibition percentage of the oocyte sporulation in addition to the unsporulated and degenerated Eimeria oocysts using a haemocytometer after exposure to different essential oil concentrations. The essential oil was active against Eimeria spp. oocysts of sheep at IC₅₀ = 1.82 ug/ml. Therefore, the IC₅₀ values of the anticoccidial activity of this oil examined was 1.82 mg/ml. The anthelmintic efficacy of the rosemary volatile oil against Haemonchus contortus was realised by two in vitro tests: the egg hatch assay (EHA) and the adult worm's motility assay (AWMA), by comparing this efficacy with albendazole (anthelmintic, of reference). In the egg hatch assay, the percentage of inhibition was observed at 16 mg/ml and was 73.76% after 2 days of incubation (IC₅₀ = 11.41 mg/ml) and for the adult worm's motility assay, it was 100% inhibition.

Understanding the causes of death in dogs enhances the diagnostic capabilities of veterinarians, as well as reduces animal mortality. Studies on this topic assist in the control and prophylaxis of epidemics and in structuring public health programmes. In total, 1 355 necropsy reports of dogs filed at the Veterinary Pathology Laboratory of the Federal University of Bahia, Northeast, Brazil (2005-2017) were analysed. The epidemiological information and anatomopathological diagnoses were obtained. The diagnosed diseases were classified into 10 categories. The frequency of the zoonoses, the overall age of the death (AD) of the dogs, and the AD of the dogs for each disease category were determined. Infectious and parasitic diseases were the most frequent primary causes of death in puppies (44.62%) and adult dogs (26.52%). In elderly dogs, most deaths occurred due to neoplasms (42.37%). Distemper (10.46%) was the most prevalent condition. A high frequency of zoonoses (6.12%) and a high death rate caused by diseases that could have been prevented (15.06%), such as distemper, parvovirus and canine visceral leishmaniasis, were reported. The AD in the population studied was eight years. The results confirmed the hypothesis of a high death rate in dogs in the state of Bahia, Northeast, Brazil, because of preventable infectious diseases.

The concurrent occurrence of a bovine viral diarrhoea virus type-1 infection and necrotising-suppurative bronchopneumonia due to Trueperella pyogenes was diagnosed in a 4-month-old male calf. The pulmonary lesions were characterised by necro-suppurative bronchopneumonia with intralesional gram-positive microorganisms. The reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and matrix-assisted laser desorption ionisation time-of-flight mass spectrometry analysis (MALDI-TOF MS) also indicated the presence of BVDV type-1 and Trueperella pyogenes agents, respectively. A positive immunoreaction to the BVDV was present in the vascular walls in the lungs, hepatocytes, lymphoid cells in the spleen and lymph nodes, and neurons in the brain. With this case study, the two infections were, to the best of our knowledge, reported concurrently for the first time. It can be assumed that a subclinical BVDV infection might contribute to the occurrence of Trueperella pyogenes infections in calves.

A one-and-a-half-year-old male Wire Fox Terrier weighing 3 kg presented with continuous drooling and vomiting. Its body condition score was 3/9, and severe atrophy of the temporal/masticatory muscle, trismus, and enophthalmos was observed on physical examination. The radiographic examination and fluoroscopic oesophagography revealed a type 1 hiatal hernia with gastroesophageal reflux. The serology tests revealed increased muscle enzyme activities. The antibody tests for acetylcholine receptor, type 2M fibre, and infectious agents were negative. A conventional surgical treatment was performed, and a thickened, stretched, and flaccid diaphragmatic muscle and an extended inelastic oesophageal hiatus were observed. On the histological examination of the diaphragmatic muscle, a diffuse histiocytic myositis was confirmed. Although the postoperative gastroesophageal reflux totally disappeared, the oesophageal motility and clinical signs did not improve significantly. Medical treatment with immunosuppressive agents was attempted and was effective in alleviating the clinical signs and abnormal oesophageal motility. The health condition of the dog was adequately maintained in the 12-month monitoring period. These findings suggest that, although the medical and surgical treatment have different therapeutic effects, they should be considered simultaneously for the management of a hiatal hernia associated with polymyopathy in dogs.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the concentrations of the total (T-GSH), oxidised (GSSG) and reduced (GSH) glutathione in the blood of dairy cows, assess the relationships of the phase and number of lactation, milk production, body condition score (BCS) and selected biochemical parameters on its concentrations. We analysed 79 samples of whole blood from dairy Holstein cows. The concentration of glutathione was assessed by the spectrophotometric enzymatic method. The whole dataset shows the mean concentration of T-GSH, GSSG and GSH of 803 ± 22 µmol/l, 23 ± 2.5 µmol/l and 757 ± 27 µmol/l, respectively. The GSH/GSSG ratio was 95 ± 17. The phase of the lactation had a significant impact on the levels of T-GSH and GSH, but the number of lactation and BCS had no effect. Dry cows had higher levels of T-GSH (938 ± 44 µmol/l) than the fresh (713 ± 46 µmol/l) and peak lactation (785 ± 45 µmol/l) cows. The fresh cows had significantly lower concentrations of GSH (618 ± 44 µmol/l) than the peak lactation (719 ± 46 µmol/l) and dry cows (827 ± 43 µmol/l). On the basis of a regression analysis, blood glutathione was affected mainly by the liver function and energy metabolism. Glutathione as the marker of oxidation stress seems to be a promising tool in monitoring the health and welfare of the herd, yet intensive research in this field remains necessary.

Utilisation of artificial insemination has led to the increased role of male animals. They significantly contribute to the efficiency of productivity; therefore, sperm quality has been emphasised. The aim of this study was to analyse changes in the boar sperm morphology during the year in forty-two Duroc, Landrace and Large White boars in the Czech Republic. For each boar, a spermiogram was evaluated every month in 2018. The number of morphologically abnormal spermatozoa was recorded every month to evaluate the morphology. The abnormalities were categorised as abnormalities of the head, abnormalities of the acrosome, proximal cytoplasmic droplets and abnormalities of the tail. Throughout the study, the temperature in the stable was monitored. Changes in the sperm morphology were recorded in all breeds during the year, the changes were different for each breed. In the Landrace boars, the highest concentrations of morphologically abnormal spermatozoa were observed in July and August (P < 0.05). In this period, the concentration of the tail defects increased (P < 0.05), while, in October, a higher concentration (P < 0.05) of spermatozoa with defects of the acrosome was recorded in the Landrace boars. In the Duroc and Large White boars, the highest morphologically abnormal spermatozoa values were observed in September and October (P < 0.05). In the Duroc boars, the increase in the morphologically abnormal spermatozoa in this period was mainly caused by an increased occurrence of proximal cytoplasmic droplets (P < 0.05). On the contrary, in the Large White boars, the increase was related to a higher incidence of tail defects (P < 0.05). These results show that changes in the sperm morphology are influenced by the ambient temperature and the breed.

Chicken interferon-α (chIFN-α) is an important antiviral cytokine and represents one of the first lines of the chicken's innate immune system. The current study is the first-ever report of chicken IFN (chIFN) production in Pakistan. In this study, we have used live and UV-irradiated Newcastle disease virus (NDV) to induce the expression of chIFN-α in chicken embryo fibroblast (CEF) cells. ChIFN-α was partially purified in a two-step protocol; ultracentrifugation followed by treatment with anti-chIFN-β antibodies. The purified chIFN-α was ana-lysed via sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and the in vitro antiviral potential of chIFN-α was determined against the H9N2 avian influenza virus (AIV) via a cytopathic inhibition assay. The relative mRNA level of the IFN-stimulated genes (ISGs) in the IFN-stimulated CEF cells was measured at various time intervals by a quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). The stability of natural chIFN-α to the temperature, pH, and ultraviolet (UV) light was also determined. The in vivo therapeutic potential of chIFN-α was determined in 7-day-old broiler chickens challenged with AIV. We found that a higher chIFN-α expression level was induced by the UV-irradiated NDV in the CEF cells as compared to the live NDV. The UV-irradiated NDV induced the maximum IFN production in the CEF cells at 24 h post-infection. Two bands of 21 kDa on SDS-PAGE confirmed the presence of the chIFN-α protein. The cytopathic inhibition assay indicated the strong antiviral activity of chIFN-α against AIV. Our results of the stability analysis showed that chIFN-α was stable at a wide range of temperatures and pH levels. However, a little exposure to UV-light resulted in a significant loss of antiviral activity. We also observed that the antiviral activity of chIFN-α is related to the expression levels of the antiviral ISGs. The results of the in vivo study showed that the chIFN-α therapy via the oral route resulted in a significant improvement in the tracheal pathology of chickens challenged with AIV. In conclusion, we suggest that chIFN-α could be an important therapeutic tool to control avian influenza infection in poultry.

The occurrence of human as well as veterinary drug residues in surface water is caused by their insufficient removal ability from wastewater. Drug residues disturb the natural balance of water ecosystem, have a negative effect on non-target organisms and pose a significant risk for human health. The main aim of this study was to determine the concentration of residues of eight drugs from the group of sulfonamides (sulfathiazole, sulfadiazine, sulfamethazine, sulfamethoxazole, sulfadimethoxine, sulfadoxine, sulfamerazine, sulfachlorpyridazine), four drugs from the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug group (ibuprofen, ketoprofen, naproxen, diclofenac) and one representative of the analgesics-antipyretics group [paracetamol (acetaminophen)] in the surface water of the Elbe river basin. A total of 65 samples of surface water from the Elbe river basin were taken during August 2018 when the weather was constant without any significant fluctuations. The analysis was performed by means of liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The results have shown the numerous occurrences of sulfamethoxazole, ibuprofen, naproxen, diclofenac and paracetamol (acetaminophen). A statistically significant negative correlation between the river flow rate in the monitored locations and the residue concentration was found for ibuprofen, naproxen, diclofenac and paracetamol (acetaminophen). The most significant findings of the monitored drug residues were mostly determined in samples from small streams below larger urban settlements with a hospital or other health facilities.