Polish Journal of Veterinary Sciences

Canine parvovirus (CPV) is a highly contagious agent prevalent worldwide, particularly in young dogs, and is associated with severe gastrointestinal symptoms. It is considered the leading cause of death due to haemorrhagic diarrhoea in puppies. As a result of antigenic and genetic changes in the virus, various variants such as CPV-2a, 2b, 2c, new 2a, and new 2b have emerged. This study aimed to investigate the presence of CPV-2 in the Black Sea region of Turkey and perform molecular characterisation. Samples were collected from dogs presented to the clinics of Samsun Ondokuz Mayıs University Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Animal Hospital with complaints of vomiting and diarrhoea. Blood, faeces, rectal swabs and tissue samples from 45 dogs suspected of CPV-2 infection were analysed using the real-time polymerase chain reaction method, which detected viral nucleic acid in 24 samples. Virus isolation was performed on the African green monkey kidney (VERO) cell line for eight positive samples. Whole-genome sequence analyses were conducted on six isolates using next-generation sequencing, classifying these isolates as CPV-2a variants. Among our isolates, three different amino acid changes were detected in the VP2 protein, the major capsid protein of CPV-2. The fact that two animals testing positive in this study had been previously vaccinated raises questions regarding vaccine effectiveness. In conclusion, our study provides insights into the current status of CPV-2 in the Black Sea region of Turkey and underscores the importance of conducting regular epidemiological studies and implementing an effective vaccination policy.

This study evaluated the effects of Hermetia illucens (HI) larvae full-fat meal and astaxanthin (AST) on large intestine histomorphometry, microbiota activity, and composition in pigs. Forty-eight pigs (8.7 kg) were divided into six groups: control (0HI), 2.5% HI (2.5HI), 5% HI (5HI), 2.5% HI + AST (2.5HI+AST), 5% HI + AST (5HI+AST), and AST alone (AST). The experiment lasted from 35 to 70 days of age. HI meal increased mucosal thickness (p<0.01), crypt depth (p<0.05), and width (p<0.05). Goblet cell counts increased in the 2.5HI (p<0.05), while enterocyte numbers decrease in the AST group (p<0.01). Dietary HI meal reduced concentrations of total short-chain fatty acids (SCFA), including butyrate (p<0.05), whereas AST increased acetic acid levels in multiple intestinal regions (p<0.05). Both additives modified microbial populations: AST increased total bacterial counts (p<0.001), while 2.5% HI meal reduced the abundance of the Bacteroides–Prevotella cluster (p<0.001). Significant interactions were detected for Lactobacillus/Enterococcus spp. and Enterobacteriaceae (p<0.001). HI meal decreased p-cresol concentrations in the middle colon (p<0.05), whereas AST reduced phenol in the distal colon (p<0.05) and indole in the middle colon (p<0.05). AST increased ammonia levels in the proximal colon (p=0.001). These findings suggest that HI meal and AST modulate intestinal fermentation, exhibit anti-inflammatory effects, and regulate microbial populations, potentially reducing harmful metabolites and odor emissions. Their dietary combination may have positive implications for intestinal health.

This study investigated the clinical and immunological efficacy of combining Malva sylvestris L. extract with levamisole in calves naturally affected by bovine trichophytosis. Forty clinically diagnosed calves (8–11 months old) were randomly allocated into four groups: Control, Malva, Levamisole, and Combination. All animals received subcutaneous ivermectin (0.2 mg/kg) ten days before treatment and were maintained under uniform housing, feeding, and management conditions throughout the study. Treatments were applied for 21 days: Control (distilled water + saline), Malva (M. sylvestris extract + saline), Levamisole (distilled water + levamisole, 2.5 mg/kg), and Combination (both treatments). Lesion diameters were recorded on days 0 and 21. Blood samples collected on days 0, 7, 14, and 21 were analysed for leukocyte profiles and serum IgG, IL-6, and IFN-γ concentrations. The Combination group exhibited the most pronounced reduction in lesion size (p≤0.05) and marked elevations in leukocyte counts and IgG levels (p≤0.01). IL-6 concentrations significantly decreased in the Malva group by day 21 (p≤0.001), whereas IFN-γ levels showed notable increases in the Levamisole and Combination groups (p≤0.001). Overall, these findings underscore the therapeutic potential of integrating topical M. sylvestris with systemic levamisole as an effective complementary strategy for managing bovine dermatophytosis.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the cryoprotective capacity of Tris-Citrate-Fructose (TCF) extenders supplemented with soy lecithin (asolectin) at concentrations of 0.05% (Asol 0.05%) and 0.5% (Asol 0.5%), in comparison with the commonly used egg yolk-based extender (TCF-EY). Ten ejaculates, each obtained from a different dog, were included in the experiment. Both fresh and cryopreserved semen were assessed for total motility (TM) and progressive motility (PM) using computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA). Plasma membrane integrity (LIVE), DNA fragmentation index (DFI), mitochondrial activity (MT−/PI+, MT+/PI+, MT+/PI−), and oxidative stress (CellROX+/DRD+, CellROX−/DRD−, CellROX+/DRD−) were measured by flow cytometry. Significant differences (p<0.05) were found in TM (%) between the TCF-EY and Asol 0.5% groups (51.16±5.80 vs. 22.33±9.62). However, no significant differences were observed in LIVE sperm. The DFI remained below 5% in all examined groups. Compared with the control TCF-EY extender, both soy-supplemented groups showed a significant reduction in the population of viable sperm without oxidative stress. The use of asolectin-based extenders also significantly reduced the percentage of viable sperm with active mitochondria, compared to the TCF-EY extender. There were no significant differences between the tested two soy lecithin concentrations in any of the evaluated parameters.. In conclusion, the TCF-EY extender demonstrated superior efficacy in preserving semen quality after cryopreservation. Further research is needed to explore alternative phospholipid sources, including different types and concentrations of soy lecithin, and their effects on sperm fertilizing capacity.

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of thermophilic Campylobacter species in urban wild birds living alongside humans in Istanbul, to determine the species distribution of isolated strains, and to characterize their antimicrobial resistance profiles. In this study, 150 fresh fecal samples from wild birds living alongside humans (crows and seagulls living along the coastlines, and pigeons living in tourist areas in the city center) were collected from various regions of Istanbul, Türkiye. For Campylobacter isolation, mCCDA agar was inoculated, and suspected isolates identified as Campylobacter spp. by biochemical tests were identified by PCR. The phenotypic and genotypic antimicrobial susceptibility profiles of the isolated strains were determined. When fecal samples were examined using conventional methods, Campylobacter spp. was isolated from 2/150 (1.33%). As a result of mPCR applied to DNAs obtained directly from the examination samples, 16 Campylobacter spp. were found in 15/150 (10%). 14 of these (93.3%) were identified as C. coli, and 2 (12.5%) were identified as C. jejuni. Campylobacter was detected in 11 of 127 pigeons (8.66%), while 10 (7.87%) were identified as C. coli, and 2 (1.57%) were identified as C. jejuni; Campylobacter was detected in 4 of 22 seagulls (18.18%), and all were identified as C. coli. When the sample collection regions were compared, the frequency of Campylobacter spp. was highest in Beyazıt Square (60%), followed by Küçükçekmece Beach (40%). As a result of antimicrobial susceptibility tests and PCR performed for the presence of tet(O), aphA-3 and gyrA genes, gyrA gene was found in both isolates, while tet(O) and aphA-3 genes were not detected. This study revealed that urban wild bird populations resident in Istanbul are a significant reservoir for Thermophilic Campylobacter species and pose a potential public health risk.

Following testicular ischemia, the return of blood circulation promotes reactive oxygen species formation. By damaging cellular components such as proteins, DNA and lipids, reactive oxygen species negatively affect testicular spermatogenic function. Numerous plant species, particularly those within the Oleaceae family, contain oleanolic acid as a principal active ingredient. Extensive research has confirmed oleanolic acid’s efficacy in exerting antioxidant action. We examined the therapeutic potential of oleanolic acid in mitigating testicular damage induced by ischemia-reperfusion in rats. The study included three groups, each comprising twenty male rats: a sham group, an ischemia-reperfusion group, and an ischemia-reperfusion group treated with oleanolic acid (30 mg/kg). Left testicular torsion of 720 degrees counterclockwise, maintained for 2 hours, induced testicular ischemia-reperfusion injury. After surgical detorsion of the left testis, the ischemia-reperfusion + oleanolic acid group was treated immediately with a single 30 mg/kg dose of oleanolic acid via intraperitoneal injection. Multiple analytical procedures were performed on testicular tissues collected from the three rat groups. Biochemical measurements encompassed both nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase activity (critical for reactive oxygen species production) and malondialdehyde concentration (a reactive oxygen species indicator). We used hematoxylin-eosin staining for the evaluation of spermatogenic function in testicular tissue. Relative to the sham group, the ischemia-reperfusion group exhibited significantly elevated NADPH oxidase activity and malondialdehyde levels in ipsilateral testes, accompanied by impaired spermatogenic function (p<0.05). Oleanolic acid intervention effectively suppressed oxidative stress markers (NADPH oxidase activity and malondialdehyde levels) in ipsilateral testes, relatively enhancing spermatogenic capacity (p<0.05). Overall, oleanolic acid enhances testicular spermatogenic function by lowering NADPH oxidase activity and curbing reactive oxygen species formation.

The aim of this study was to assess the presence and identity of nematodes in pet giant African land snails (Lissachatina fulica) in Poland using microscopic and molecular techniques. Lissachatina fulica, syn. Achatina fulica, a giant African land snail is not only considered a free-living invasive species and an intermediate host of some parasites, but is also gaining importance as a pet animal living in close contact with humans. In this research, pooled fecal samples and mucus swabs were obtained from 49 pet giant land snails (11 private collections) living in different regions of Poland. The samples were examined using microscopic techniques (Lugol staining, Baermann larvoscopy) and PCR to investigate the presence of nematodes. The microscopic examinations of fecal samples revealed the presence of nematodes in 63.6% (7/11) of the snail groups. Rhabditid nematodes were found in 27.3% (3/11) of the examined groups. Sequencing of PCR products revealed the presence of gastropod nematodes Phasmarhabditis sp. (KEN1), Poikilolaimus oxycercus and Caenorhabditis nigoni. The genetic material of mammalian parasites, including Crenosoma, was not detected. Given the increasing popularity of L. fulica as pets, understanding their parasitological status is essential for both animal and public health. It also helps meet the expectations of owners who wish to provide proper care for their pet snails.

Blood samples from 385 red deer (Cervus elaphus) acquired during officially approved hunting in different hunting divisions throughout Poland were used to isolate the genomic DNA. All individuals were genotyped by Bovine BeadChip (Illumina) for 54,174 Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) markers. SNPs of inappropriate clusters, with a marker call rate lower than 95% and with a Minor Allele Frequency (MAF) lower than 0.01, located on sex chromosomes and mitochondrial DNA, were removed. In total, 12,146 SNP markers were included for further analysis. Observed and expected heterozygosity amounted to 0.025 and 0.035, respectively. Among 12,146 markers, a panel of 142 SNPs were selected for relatedness analysis. The selected SNPs were unlinked and had a MAF higher than 0.2. This set of SNPs showed a probability of parentage exclusion of 1.42x10-6 and 9.91x10-19 for one and two known parents, respectively. The probability of identity was estimated at 6.84x10-53. The probabilities obtained in this study are sufficient for the monitoring and effective management of the genetic diversity of red deer in Poland and are a cost-effective complementary tool for forensic applications.

This study evaluated the impact of essential oil supplementation, primarily containing seed oil from coriander, along with eugenol, geranyl acetate and geraniol, on the blood metabolic profile and overall health of dairy cattle during the transition period. Milking was done using a milking robot, all cows were given total mixed ration (TMR) twice a day, at 07:00 a.m. and 07:00 p.m. A total of 140 multiparous Holstein cows were divided into two groups: a test group (n=70) receiving essential oil supplementation (1 g/cow/day) and a control group (n=70). The cows were monitored from 30 days before calving to 90 days post-calving. Results showed that cows in the test group produced 4.5% to 7% more milk compared to the control group across different lactation periods (5-90 days in milk). Milk composition was also improved with higher milk fat and protein percentages. Essential oil supplementation positively influenced feed efficiency and metabolic indicators such as albumin. These results suggest that essential oil supplementation enhances milk yield, composition, and efficiency during the critical transition period.

Pseudorabies (PR) is an infectious disease caused by the pseudorabies virus (PRV), which can infect multiple animal species and humans. Glycoprotein E (gE) of PRV plays a vital role in viral neuroinvasion but is not essential for viral replication, making it a key target for differentiation between infected and vaccinated animals. For such serological monitoring, a large amount of purified and bioactive gE protein is essential as a diagnostic antigen. While Escherichia coli (E. coli) is an attractive system for its high yield, low cost, and rapid production, the expression of recombinant gE in this prokaryotic host is frequently hampered by protein accumulation into insoluble inclusion bodies, which compromises the native protein structure and diminishes its antigenic activity for reliable diagnostic use. The objective of this study was to develop a robust strategy for the efficient production of water-soluble gE in E. coli to obtain a functionally active antigen for diagnostic applications. The solubility of recombinant gE protein was optimized using a combination of low induction temperature, reduced isopropyl-β-d-thiogalactopyranoside (IPTG) concentration, and prolonged expression time to favor proper protein folding. Through systematic optimization, we established that induction at 25°C with 0.4 mM IPTG for 8 h enabled the high-yield expression of water-soluble gE in E. coli, yielding approximately 35 mg/L of purified protein. Crucially, the water-soluble gE protein retained native epitopes, as demonstrated by its strong immunoreactivity with clinical PRV-positive swine sera and the ability of gE-specific antisera to recognize wild-type PRV in infected cells. This study provides a practically significant solution for producing a high-fidelity gE antigen and the cultivation-based optimization strategy presents a universal framework for solving the persistent challenge of protein aggregation into insoluble inclusion bodies.

Canine adenovirus type 1 (CAdV-1), the causative agent of infectious canine hepatitis (ICH), a fatal disease affecting domestic and wild canids, yet its prevalence and molecular characteristics remain underexplored in India’s north eastern region (NER). This study presents the first comprehensive genomic and immunoinformatic analysis of CAdV-1 in dogs in the region. Out of 208 canine parvovirus type-2 (CPV-2) positive fecal samples, 36 (17.30%) tested positive for CAdV-1 by PCR. Of the 36 positive samples, 25 samples were sequenced. Deduced amino acid analysis revealed notable amino acid mutations, including Asn127Asp, His129Arg, Trp148Ser, Leu201Pro, Thr206Met and Gly215Glu. Sequence analysis of the 25 field samples revealed distinct regional clustering consistent with regional viral evolution. In terms of relatedness to global strains, the NER isolates showed highest similarity to Asian and European canid and wildlife-origin isolates with 96% to 100% amino acid homology. Selection pressure analysis revealed predominantly purifying selection. aBSREL and Contrast-FEL identified a few codons potentially experiencing weak or episodic positive selection, likely reflecting host immune adaptation. GARD analysis ruled out evidence of recombination. Immunoinformatic prediction identified B-cell epitope, “NKTTTEATIITY ISMTFLLVSLTLFLNLVTLTL,” in most CAdV-1 sequences making it a suitable candidate for future vaccine development. The MHC-I binding peptide “LTFPNVLITLNNKY” (positions 83-96) demonstrated a strong affinity for the canine allele, suggesting its potential for triggering cytotoxic T-cell responses. These findings shed new light on the molecular epidemiology of CAdV-1 in the NER and highlight the critical need for multi-pathogen screening, molecular surveillance at wildlife – livestock interfaces, and future whole-genome studies to explicate viral evolution, host interactions, immune evasion, and regional strain diversity.

Neonatal calf diarrhoea caused by Escherichia coli (E. coli) pathotypes remains a major health concern in livestock. This study aimed to characterise E. coli pathotypes isolated from diarrhoeic calves in the Küçük Menderes Basin, Türkiye, and to evaluate their antimicrobial resistance profiles. Faecal samples were collected from 100 calves across five districts. Twentyfive E. coli isolates were obtained and analysed by PCR for virulence genes. Antimicrobial susceptibility was tested using the disk diffusion method, following guidelines from the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI). Enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC) was the most prevalent pathotype (64%). Multiple virulence gene combinations were detected, including one isolate (4%) that carried virulence genes associated with ETEC, enterohaemorrhagic E. coli (EHEC), and enteropathogenic E. coli (EPEC). Antimicrobial susceptibility testing revealed high effectiveness of florfenicol (80%) and tetracycline (76%), while resistance was highest to penicillin G (88%), streptomycin (52%), and aztreonam (64%). Multidrug resistance (MDR), defined as phenotypic resistance to three or more antimicrobial classes, was observed in 36% (9/25) of the isolates. The high prevalence of ETEC confirms its dominant role in neonatal calf diarrhoea, whereas substantial β-lactam resistance underscores the need for prudent antibiotic use and regionally adapted management strategies.

The aim of this study was to compare the hypo-osmotic swelling (HOS) and water-induced hypo-osmotic tests (Water test) by assessing the functional membrane integrity (FMI) of dog sperm from the sperm-rich fractions (SRFs) and whole ejaculates (WEs). ANOVA results showed that only sperm source had significant effects on the percentages of sperm cells with FMI. Both the HOS and Water tests indicated that sperm from the WEs exhibited significantly higher FMI than those from the SRFs. Scatter plot regression analysis confirmed highly positive significant relationships between the HOS and Water tests, particularly for sperm originating from the SRFs. Although the Bland-Altman method showed that the average discrepancy of the measurement of the FMI for the SRFs was higher than the WEs, the findings of the present study indicate that both HOS and the Water tests provided measurements that were in close agreement. Such findings confirm that both the HOS and Water tests detected similar populations of sperm cells with FMI either from the SRFs or WEs. We suggest that the significantly higher proportions of sperm with FMI from the WEs, detected by both the HOS and Water tests, reaffirm the important role of the sperm-coating components of the prostatic fluid in protecting the membrane structures of sperm exposed to hypo-osmotic conditions.

Retinal complications in diabetes are a leading cause of vision loss in adults. Long-term hyperglycemia triggers molecular changes that damage retinal neuronal tissues and blood vessels, leading to degeneration, inflammation, and vision impairment. Studies show that the Receptor for Advanced Glycation End-Products (RAGE) and its cytosolic ligand, Diaph1 are both implicated in the pathogenesis of diabetic complications; however, their role in the development of retinal damage is not yet clear. We hypothesized that the deletion of either RAGE or Diaph1 would be beneficial and prevent or delay damage to the retinal structure in diabetes. Wild-type, RAGE and Diaph1 knockout mice were used in the study. The mice were randomly selected and divided into control and diabetic groups. Diabetes was induced with Streptozotocin injections, and six months after diabetes induction all mice were sacrificed, samples collected and processed for morphometric analysis. Our analysis revealed a reduction in retinal depth across all layers between control and diabetic samples. The effect of RAGE or Diaph1 deletion on retinal structure differed, indicating that both proteins may play independent if not interchangeable roles in retina function and structure, highlighting their potential role in the pathogenesis of diabetic retinal complications.

For South American camelids (SAC) and, to a lesser extent, Old World camels (OWC), an increasing demand for veterinary services has developed in Central Europe in recent years, with specific knowledge of the reproductive endocrinology of this species being particularly in demand for the management of breeding farms. Compared to many other domestic animal species, relatively little reliable information is available on the endocrine control of pregnancy and parturition in camelids. However, some significant differences to other domestic ungulate species are evident. Knowledge of pregnancy-associated endocrine changes forms the basis for hormonal pregnancy diagnostics. Even though clinical pregnancy diagnostics using sonography is also of primary importance in camelids, hormonal methods, especially non-invasive methods, are potentially of considerable interest as they represent a less stressful or stress-free alternative. Non-invasive methods of pregnancy diagnostics are of particular interest in untrained OWC, where clinical diagnostics or blood sampling without sedation can be associated with unacceptable risks for the personnel involved. Experience with hormonal pregnancy diagnostics in camelids has so far only been published sporadically, with mostly progesterone, pregnancy-associated estrogens or relaxin being measured in the blood. Non-invasive measurement of progesterone or estrogen metabolites in feces and urine has also rarely been reported. The aim of this article is to summarize the current state of knowledge on the hormonal control of pregnancy and parturition in SAC and OWC and based on this, to show the possibilities for hormonal pregnancy diagnostics. Essential prerequisites for broader application, particularly of non-invasive methods in routine diagnostics, are the optimization of previously pursued methodological approaches, the commercial availability of the necessary reagents at reasonable cost, and the establishment of reliable reference values.

Three-dimensional geometric morphometric methods have emerged as a pivotal tool in veterinary anatomy, taxonomy, clinical research, and studies of morphological diversity. This article summarizes the key stages, applications, clinical potential, and recommendations for data standardization in 3D morphometrics. Datasets are typically acquired using radiological modalities, including computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and 3D surface scanning, each offering specific advantages and constraints contingent on the research context. Standardized landmark sets are essential in 3D morphometric studies to ensure reproducibility and comparability of results across independent investigations. Consistent use of reference landmarks enables repeatable analyses, but the number of landmarks directly influences the required sample size and statistical power. Consequently, a minimal yet balanced landmark configuration is critical. This article proposes a standardized, minimal landmark set for the skulls of horses, cattle, and sheep to enhance inter-study reproducibility and comparability. Landmark selection prioritizes anatomically distinct points to avoid excessive landmarking, which may complicate analyses or compromise interpretability. Applications of 3D morphometric methods include orthopedic surgical planning, biomechanical modeling, and assessment of congenital anomalies, providing enhanced precision in diagnostics and research. In conclusion, 3D geometric morphometric methods represent a robust analytical framework in veterinary anatomy, morphology, and clinical research. Their significance is poised to grow through integration with automated landmarking, artificial intelligence-driven analyses, and international data-sharing networks, thereby advancing scientific inquiry in novel dimensions.

Mitral valve (MV) regurgitation (MVR) is mainly associated with mitral valve leaflet prolapse. The leading cause of MV leaflet prolapse is degeneration of the mitral valve leaflets or functional MVR. Until recently, there has been a scarcity of surgical options for minimally invasive mitral valve repair in dogs. In contrast, humans often have forms of MVR that do not qualify for conventional heart surgery or existing minimally invasive mitral valve repair methods. Transapical Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair (TEER) of the MV is an innovative new method that uses special clips that are inserted into the heart through apical punctures. This technique enables effective closure of the defective valve without necessitating a traditional thoracotomy or opening the heart. It is the first minimally invasive method for valve clamping in dogs and a new option available for humans suffering from severe MVR. In this article, we summarize the knowledge of TEER and its use in humans and dogs.

The porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) represents a critical challenge to the global swine industry due to its profound adverse effects on pig health and production efficiency. A key pathological outcome of PEDV infection is the induction of oxidative stress, which significantly exacerbates intestinal injury and accelerates disease progression. Natural bioactive compounds, sourced from plants, animals, and microorganisms, have been extensively studied for their diverse biological properties, including potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral activities. These compounds demonstrate significant potential in alleviating oxidative stress and playing a pivotal role in the prevention and management of PEDV infections. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the mechanisms by which natural bioactive compounds enhance the antioxidant defence system and suppress PEDV replication. Current evidence indicates that these compounds alleviate oxidative stress primarily through the modulation of antioxidant enzyme systems, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and the activation of key signalling pathways, including the Nrf2/ARE axis. These actions collectively contribute to reduced viral loads and improved health outcomes in PEDV-infected pigs. Although these findings underscore the potential of natural bioactive compounds, several critical challenges persist, particularly the incomplete elucidation of their mechanisms of action and the substantial costs associated with large-scale applications. Addressing these challenges necessitates further research aimed at uncovering the precise molecular pathways underlying their effects and developing cost-effective strategies to facilitate their practical implementation in the swine industry.