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A 7-year-old warmblood mare showed sudden onset of mild intermittent haemoptysis. Clinical examination revealed no significant abnormalities. Haematological examination showed mild anaemia, hypoalbuminaemia and neutrophilia. Coagulation tests were normal. Endoscopic examination revealed unilateral pulmonary haemorrhage with blood clots in the bronchi and trachea. Treatment with antibiotics was started and the horse was given stable rest. Two weeks later, the horse was found dead with blood and frothy sputum leaking from the nostrils. Post-mortem examination revealed a large thoracic aortic aneurysm communicating with a pseudoaneurysm that had formed a fistula into a right bronchial branch. Microscopical examination of the aneurysm showed extensive medial fibrosis with prominent degeneration, fragmentation and mineralization of the elastic fibres and deposition of mucoid material in the tunica media. The pseudoaneurysm was lined by collagen bundles admixed with fibroblasts and a small amount of adipose tissue. Aortobronchial fistula is a rare condition in man that is usually associated with primary aortic pathology, most often aneurysms. To the authors' knowledge this is the first case of a fatal aortobronchial fistula in a horse or any other animal species.

Electric pulses in fishing gear are increasingly used in the North Sea and are considered a promising alternative to ameliorate the sustainability of demersal trawl fisheries. The electrotrawl for brown shrimp employing low frequency pulsed direct current (PDC) selectively induces a startle response in shrimp engendering decreased environmental impact and reduced by-catch. Prior to commercially introducing this fishing technique, data on its impact on marine organisms are crucial. The aim of this study was to evaluate the short-term effects of this pulse used for electrotrawling for brown shrimp on five marine fish species inhabiting shrimp fishery areas. For this purpose, 25 European plaice (Pleuronectes platessa), 30 Dover sole (Solea solea), 20 Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua), 19 bull-rout (Myoxocephalus scorpius) and 20 armed bullhead (Agonus cataphractus) were exposed to the shrimp pulse for 5 s. Before, during and till 20 min following exposure, the behaviour of the fish was monitored. Twenty-four hours post-exposure, all fish were sacrificed, inspected and samples for histological analysis were taken from the gills, dorsal muscle and internal organs. To investigate possible spinal injuries radiographs were taken. Behavioural responses were variable and species dependant. Roundfish species, cod in particular, were displaying more active and agitated fast swimming activity during exposure. The majority of flatfish showed only minor reactions and remained close to the bottom throughout the observation period. However, 15% of the exposed sole actively swam upwards during exposure. Mild multifocal petechial haemorrhages and suffusion, encountered mainly in plaice and sole, were not significantly different between exposed and control groups. Upon histological examination, in two exposed plaice, a focal small haemorrhage between muscle fibres was found, which was not encountered in control animals. In addition, the number of melanomacrophage centres in the spleen of exposed cod was significantly higher than in the non-exposed animals. In conclusion, under the circumstances as adopted in this study, the electrical field seemed to have only limited immediate impact on the exposed animals.

This study focused on the anatomy and ontogeny of saddleback syndrome (SBS) in reared European sea bass. The abnormality was detected at an unusually high frequency (12-94%) during a routine quality control in a commercial hatchery. Anatomically the abnormality was mainly characterized by the loss of 1-5 hard spines and severe abnormalities of the proximal pterygiophores (anterior dorsal fin), size reduction of a few lepidotrichia, missing lepidotrichia and/or lepidotrichia of poor ossification (posterior dorsal fin). SBS was significantly correlated with abnormalities of the anal and pelvic fins in all the examined populations. Moreover, in juvenile fish, SBS was significantly correlated with an abnormal lack of sectors of the lateral line. The examination of early larval samples revealed that SBS was ontogenetically associated with severe abnormalities of the primordial marginal finfold, which developed at the flexion stage (ca 8.5-11.0 mm SL). Histologically, these abnormalities were associated with extensive epidermal erosion. The results are discussed in respect of the critical ontogenetic period and the possible causative factors of SBS in European sea bass. It is suggested that causative factors acted during a wide ontogenetic period including flexion and metamorphosis phases.

Electrotrawling is currently the most promising alternative for conventional beam trawls targeting sole and shrimp, meeting both the fisherman’s aspirations and the need for more environmentally friendly fishing techniques. Before electrotrawling can be further developed and implemented on a wider scale, more information is needed about the effects of electrical pulses on marine organisms. Adult Dover sole (Solea solea L.) and Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua L.) were used in the present study as model species for flatfish and roundfish, respectively. These animals were exposed to homogeneously distributed electrical fields with varying values of the following parameters: frequency (5–200 Hz), electrical field strength (100–200 V/m), pulse polarity, pulse shape, pulse duration (0.25–1 ms) and exposure time (1–5 s). The goal was to determine the range of pulse parameters which can be regarded as safe and thereby also to evaluate the effect of the pulses already being used in commercial electrotrawls. Fish behaviour during and shortly after exposure, 14-days post exposure mortality rates, as well as gross and histological examination were used to evaluate possible effects. During exposure, both species showed an escape response below a frequency of 20 Hz and a cramp reaction above 40 Hz. These reactions were immediately followed by post-exposure escape behaviour and at high electrical loads cod showed tonic-clonic epileptiform seizures. No mortality was observed and histological examination did not reveal any abnormalities, except for one cod showing a spinal injury. These data reveal the absence of irreversible lesions in sole as a direct consequence of exposure to electric pulses administered in the laboratory, while in cod, more research is needed to assess cod’s vulnerability for spinal injuries when exposed to the cramp pulses.

Pulse trawling is currently the best available alternative to beam trawling in the brown shrimp Crangon crangon and Sole Solea solea (also known as Solea vulgaris) fisheries. To evaluate the effect of repetitive exposure to electrical fields, brown shrimp were exposed to the commercial electrodes and pulse settings used to catch brown shrimp (shrimp startle pulse) or Sole (Sole cramp pulse) 20 times in 4 d and monitored for up to 14 d after the first exposure. Survival, egg loss, molting, and the degree of intranuclear bacilliform virus (IBV) infection were evaluated and compared with those in stressed but not electrically exposed (procedural control) and nonstressed, nonexposed (control) brown shrimp as well as brown shrimp exposed to mechanical stimuli. The lowest survival at 14 d (57.3%) occurred in the Sole cramp pulse treatment, and this was significantly lower than in the group with the highest survival, the procedural control (70.3%). No effect of electrical stimulation on the severity of IBV infection was found. The lowest percentage of molts occurred in the repetitive mechanical stimulation treatment (14.0%), and this was significantly lower than in the group with the highest percentage of molts, the procedural control (21.7%). Additionally, the mechanically stimulated brown shrimp that died during the experiment had a significantly larger size than the surviving individuals. Finally, no effect of the shrimp startle pulse was found. Therefore, it can be concluded that repetitive exposure to a cramp stimulus and mechanical stimulation may have negative effects on the growth and/or survival of brown shrimp. However, there is no evidence that electrical stimulation during electrotrawls would have a larger negative impact on brown shrimp stocks than mechanical stimulation during conventional beam trawling.

Background: To date, reference values for 25-OH-vitamin D, parathyroid hormone (PTH), and calcium in serum of common marmosets (Callithrix jacchus) based on a large sample size are not available. Methods: Serum reference values for these parameters were determined and correlated with sex, age, season of sampling, and time of long bone epiphyseal closure in captive-housed marmosets. Results and Conclusions: The 90% reference range for serum 25-OH-vitamin D is 47.40-370.4 nmol/L, for PTH 2.10-30.51 pmol/L, and for calcium 2.08-2.63 mmol/L. Lower levels of vitamin D were measured in fall compared with the other seasons. Levels of PTH were higher in males than in females, and calcium levels were lower in younger animals compared with older marmosets. No other effects of age, sex, season, or timing of growth plate closure were found.

A 25-year-old Welsh Cob stallion was presented with a sudden onset of abnormal hind limb gait. Being led at walk on a straight line, the hindquarters were shifted to the right and the horse was walking on three tracks. Treatment with corticosteroids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs was attempted but ineffective and eventually the horse was euthanased. Postmortem examination of the coxofemoral joints revealed a bilateral degeneration of the articular cartilage of both the acetabulum and the femoral head, as well as a partial rupture of the left ligamentum capitis ossis femoris. Histological examination of this ligament showed collagen fibre fragmentation, increased proteoglycan and cellular infiltrates. The irreversible clinical signs were compatible with so-called ‘sidewinder syndrome’ and ‘crabwalking’ to the right and were associated with partial rupture of the left ligamentum capitis ossis femoris and bilateral degenerative joint disease of the coxofemoral joint, but the exact aetiology remains unknown.

A 10-month-old female Maine Coon was presented with repeated vomiting, abdominal distension and lethargy. Clinical examination, ultrasound and radiography revealed a copious amount of serohemorrhagic ascites accompanied with dorsal displacement of clustered small intestinal loops and a liver with rounded edges. On exploratory coeliotomy, the abdominal organs were small and poorly discernible. They were covered by a severely thickened peritoneum which caused an abnormal organ shape due to a scar-like contraction of the organ’s capsule. Given the severe clinical signs, the chronic and severe appearance on exploratory coeliotomy, as well as the inability to remove the layer, the animal was euthanased. Gross and histological examinations demonstrated a diffuse fibrotic serosa with involvement of all abdominal organs. The condition was diagnosed as encapsulating peritoneal sclerosis grade 3. This is a rare, chronic inflammatory disease transforming the peritoneum into a thick, sclerotic layer. The disease usually presents as a partial intestinal obstruction.

Background Skin wound healing includes a system of biological processes, collectively restoring the integrity of the skin after injury. Healing by second intention refers to repair of large and deep wounds where the tissue edges cannot be approximated and substantial scarring is often observed. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in second intention healing using a surgical wound model in sheep. MSCs are known to contribute to the inflammatory, proliferative, and remodeling phases of the skin regeneration process in rodent models, but data are lacking for large animal models. This study used three different approaches (clinical, histopathological, and molecular analysis) to assess the putative action of allogeneic MSCs at 15 and 42 days after lesion creation. Results At 15 days post-lesion, the wounds treated with MSCs showed a higher degree of wound closure, a higher percentage of re-epithelialization, proliferation, neovascularization and increased contraction in comparison to a control group. At 42 days, the wounds treated with MSCs had more mature and denser cutaneous adnexa compared to the control group. The MSCs-treated group showed an absence of inflammation and expression of CD3+ and CD20+. Moreover, the mRNA expression of hair-keratine (hKER) was observed in the MSCs-treated group 15 days after wound creation and had increased significantly by 42 days post-wound creation. Collagen1 gene (Col1α1) expression was also greater in the MSCs-treated group compared to the control group at both days 15 and 42. Conclusion Peripheral blood-derived MSCs may improve the quality of wound healing both for superficial injuries and deep lesions. MSCs did not induce an inflammatory response and accelerated the appearance of granulation tissue, neovascularization, structural proteins, and skin adnexa.

Background aims Several studies report beneficial effects of autologous and allogeneic stem cells on wound healing. However, no comparison between autologous versus allogeneic epithelial-like stem cells (EpSCs) has been made so far. For this reason, we first hypothesize that both EpSC types enhance wound healing in comparison to vehicle treatment and untreated controls. Second, on the basis of other studies, we hypothesized that there would be no difference between autologous and allogeneic EpSCs. Methods Twelve full-thickness skin wounds were created in six horses. Each horse was subjected to (i) autologous EpSCs, (ii) allogeneic EpSCs, (iii) vehicle treatment or (iv) untreated control. Wound evaluation was performed at day 3, 7 and 14 through wound exudates and at week 1, 2 and 5 through biopsies. Results Wound circumference and surface were significantly smaller in autologous EpSC-treated wounds. A significantly lower amount of total granulation tissue (overall) and higher vascularization (week 1) was observed after both EpSC treatments. Significantly more major histocompatibility complex II–positive and CD20-positive cells were noticed in EpSC-treated wounds at week 2. In autologous and allogeneic groups, the number of EpSCs in center biopsies was low after 1 week (11.7% and 6.1%), decreased to 7.6% and 1.7%, respectively (week 2), and became undetectable at week 5. Conclusions These results confirm the first hypothesis and partially support the second hypothesis. Besides macroscopic improvements, both autologous and allogeneic EpSCs had similar effects on granulation tissue formation, vascularization and early cellular immune response.

Recently we reported the successful vaccination of calves against Cooperia oncophora with a double domain activation-associated secreted protein, purified from the excretory-secretory material of adult stage parasites. In an attempt to elucidate the immune mechanisms involved in protection, the humoral and cell-mediated immune responses following vaccination and infection were compared with non-vaccinated control animals. Antigen-specific IgG1, IgG2 and IgA levels were significantly increased in sera of vaccinated animals post vaccination, whereas no effect was observed for IgM. Antigen-specific intestinal IgG1 levels were significantly increased in the vaccinated animals, whereas no differences were observed for antigen-specific IgA, IgM and IgG2 levels. Upon re-stimulation in vitro with the vaccine antigen, a significant proliferation of both αβ- and γδ-T cells, and B cells, collected from mesenteric lymph nodes, was only observed in vaccinated animals. RNA-seq analysis of intestinal tissue yielded a list of 67 genes that were differentially expressed in vaccinated animals following challenge infection, amongst which were several cell adhesion molecules, lectins and glycosyl transferases. A correlation analysis between all immunological and parasitological parameters indicated that intestinal anti-double domain activation-associated secreted protein IgG1 levels correlated negatively with cumulative faecal egg counts and positively with the proportion of L4s and L5s. The proportion of immature stages was also positively correlated with the proliferation of αβ T cells. Worm length was negatively correlated with the transcript levels of several lectins and cell adhesion molecules. Overall, the results indicate that intramuscular administration of the vaccine resulted in an immune memory response particularly characterised by increased antigen-specific IgG1 levels in the intestinal mucosa.

Although clinical data on long-term efficacy are lacking, the use of self-expanding devices for intraperitoneal placement in the management of small midline hernias has been popularized. In the present experimental study, two different devices were investigated regarding tissue ingrowth, adhesion formation and solid mesh placement. Two devices of 4.3 cm diameter, one ePTFE-containing small pore polypropylene mesh (PP/ePTFE) and a multi-layered large-pore polypropylene patch with an oxidized cellulose anti-adhesive barrier (PP/ORC), both containing a self-deployment system, were placed intraperitoneally at the linea alba of 24 female pigs. A first laparoscopy was performed to evaluate mesh positioning against the abdominal wall. 1 (n = 6), 2 (n = 6), 4 (n = 6) and 12 weeks (n = 6) later, mesh appearance was inspected and adhesion formation was assessed. All meshes were excised for histological evaluation. Folding of the patch was more frequently observed at PP/ePTFE, yet no excessive cupping was noticed. Adhesions predominantly presented at short-term evaluation. Overall adhesion formation at all samples was significantly more extensive for PP/ORC (p = 0.048). Massive shrinkage was observed for PP/ORC: after a 12-week period 22 % residual surface was preserved, compared to 83 % for PP/ePTFE (p

A detailed study on histopathological lesions induced by two C. psittaci outer membrane protein A (ompA) genotype B strains (10/423 and 10/525) and one genotype D strain (10/298) in experimentally infected (aerosol) specific pathogen free (SPF) chickens was performed. The strains were derived from Belgian and French commercially raised broilers with pneumonia. Both genotype B and D strains induced conjunctivitis, rhinitis, sinusitis, tracheitis, bronchitis, pneumonitis, airsacculitis, splenitis, hepatitis, nephritis, and enteritis in sequentially (days 2 to 34 post infection) euthanized chickens. Inflammation of the ovaries was only observed in genotype D infected chickens. Overall, the genotype D strain caused more severe gross and histopathological lesions and mortality (54.5%) early upon infection. The genotype D strain seemed to replicate faster as severity of the lesions increased more quickly. C. psittaci is a primary pathogen in chickens, and efficient monitoring and control of this emerging zoonotic pathogen is urgently needed.

The aim of this study was to compare the accuracy, precision, inter- and intra-operator reliability of a new laser beam (LB) wound camera and a digital photoplanimetry-based (DPB) method for measuring the dimensions of equine wounds. Forty-one wounds were created on equine cadavers. The area, circumference, maximum depth and volume of each wound were measured four times with both techniques by two operators. A silicone cast was made of each wound and served as the reference standard to measure the wound dimensions. The DPB method had a higher accuracy and precision in determining the wound volume compared with the LB camera, which had a higher accuracy in determining the wound area and maximum depth and better precision in determining the area and circumference. The LB camera also had a significantly higher overall inter-operator reliability for measuring the wound area, circumference and volume. In contrast, the DPB method had poor intra-operator reliability for the wound circumference. The LB camera was more user-friendly than the DPB method. The LB wound camera is recommended as the better objective method to assess the dimensions of wounds in horses, despite its poorer performance for the measurement of wound volume. However, if the wound measurements are performed by one operator on cadavers or animals under general anaesthesia, the DPB method is a less expensive and valid alternative.

Mammal skin has a crucial function in several life-preserving processes such as hydration, protection against chemicals and pathogens, initialization of vitamin D synthesis, excretion and heat regulation. Severe damage of the skin may therefore be life-threatening. Skin wound repair is a multiphased, yet well-orchestrated process including the interaction of various cell types, growth factors and cytokines aiming at closure of the skin and preferably resulting in tissue repair. Regardless various therapeutic modalities targeting at enhancing wound healing, the development of novel approaches for this pathology remains a clinical challenge. The time-consuming conservative wound management is mainly restricted to wound repair rather than restitution of the tissue integrity (the so-called “restitutio ad integrum”). Therefore, there is a continued search towards more efficacious wound therapies to reduce health care burden, provide patients with long-term relief and ultimately scarless wound healing. Recent in vivo and in vitro studies on the use of skin wound regenerative therapies provide encouraging results, but more protracted studies will have to determine whether the effect of observed effects are clinically significant and whether regeneration rather than repair can be achieved. For all the aforementioned reasons, this article reviews the emerging field of regenerative skin wound healing in mammals with particular emphasis on growth factor- and stem cell-based therapies.

Although lightning strike is an important cause of sudden death in livestock on pasture and among the main reasons why insurance companies consult an expert veterinarian, scientific information on this subject is limited. The aim of the present study was to provide objective information on the circumstantial evidence and pathological findings in lightning related fatalities (LRF), based on a retrospective analysis of 410 declarations, examined by a single expert veterinarian in Flanders, Belgium, from 1998 to 2012. Predictive logistic models for compatibility with LRF were constructed based on anamnestic, environmental and pathological factors. In addition, the added value of lightning location data (LLD) was evaluated. Pathognomonic singe lesions were present in 84/194 (43%) confirmed reports. Factors which remained significantly associated with LRF in the multivariable model were age, presence of a tree or open water in the near surroundings, tympany and presence of feed in the oral cavity at the time of investigation. This basic model had a sensitivity (Se) of 53.8% and a specificity (Sp) of 88.2%. Relying only on LLD to confirm LRF in livestock resulted in a high Se (91.3%), but a low Sp (41.2%), leading to a high probability that a negative case would be wrongly accepted as an LRF. The best results were obtained when combining the model based on the veterinary expert investigation (circumstantial evidence and pathological findings), together with the detection of cloud-to-ground (CG) lightning at the time and location of death (Se 89.1%; Sp 66.7%).

Background: Clinical results of regenerative treatments for osteoarthritis are becoming increasingly significant. However, several questions remain unanswered concerning mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) adhesion and incorporation into cartilage. Methods: To this end, peripheral blood (PB) MSCs were chondrogenically induced and/or stimulated with pulsed electromagnetic fields (PEMFs) for a brief period of time just sufficient to prime differentiation. In an organ culture study, PKH26 labelled MSCs were added at two different cell densities (0.5 x106 vs 1.0 x106). In total, 180 explants of six horses (30 per horse) were divided into five groups: no lesion (i), lesion alone (ii), lesion with naïve MSCs (iii), lesion with chondrogenically-induced MSCs (iv) and lesion with chondrogenically-induced and PEMF-stimulated MSCs (v). Half of the explants were mechanically loaded and compared with the unloaded equivalents. Within each circumstance, six explants were histologically evaluated at different time points (day 1, 5 and 14). Results: COMP expression was selectively increased by chondrogenic induction (p = 0.0488). PEMF stimulation (1mT for 10 minutes) further augmented COL II expression over induced values (p = 0.0405). On the other hand, MSC markers remained constant over time after induction, indicating a largely predifferentiated state. In the unloaded group, MSCs adhered to the surface in 92.6% of the explants and penetrated into 40.7% of the lesions. On the other hand, physiological loading significantly reduced surface adherence (1.9%) and lesion filling (3.7%) in all the different conditions (p < 0.0001). Remarkably, homogenous cell distribution was characteristic for chondrogenic induced MSCs (+/- PEMFs), whereas clump formation occurred in 39% of uninduced MSC treated cartilage explants. Finally, unloaded explants seeded with a moderately low density of MSCs exhibited greater lesion filling (p = 0.0022) and surface adherence (p = 0.0161) than explants seeded with higher densities of MSCs. In all cases, the overall amount of lesion filling decreased from day 5 to 14 (p = 0.0156). Conclusion: The present study demonstrates that primed chondrogenic induction of MSCs at a lower cell density without loading results in significantly enhanced and homogenous MSC adhesion and incorporation into equine cartilage., Cellular Physiology and Biochemistry, 37, ISSN:1015-8987, ISSN:1421-9778

Via echografisch onderzoek werd de aanwezigheid van drie intracoelomale, ovoïde massa’s en een nodulair aspect van de lever aangetoond bij een drie jaar oude, mannelijke baardagame (Pogona vitticeps) met anorexie. Het histologisch onderzoek van de operatief verwijderde massa’s en een leverbiopt onthulden de aanwezigheid van neoplastische cellen van neuro-endocriene oorsprong. Via gastroscopisch onderzoek werd een ulceratief letsel in de maag aangetoond. Op basis van deze bevindingen werd er bij de baardagame een vermoedelijke diagnose van een neuro-endocrien carcinoom met uitgebreide metastasen gesteld. Deze diagnose werd bevestigd door autopsie en histologische onderzoeken. Met deze casusbeschrijving willen de auteurs het gastrische, neuro-endocriene carcinoom, een vermoedelijk sterk ondergediagnosticeerde, neoplastische aandoening bij baardagamen, onder de aandacht brengen.

The safety of the intra-articular use of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) is scarcely reported. Therefore, the goal of this study was to investigate the safety of a single intra-articular injection with allogeneic chondrogenic induced MSCs combined with equine plasma (=the investigational product: IVP) compared to a saline (0.9% NaCl) placebo control (=control product: CP). Sixteen healthy experimental horses were randomly assigned to receive a single intra-articular injection with either the IVP (n=8) or the CP (n=8) in the left metacarpophalangeal joint. All horses underwent a daily clinical assessment throughout the entire study period of 42days to assess adverse events. Additionally, a local joint assessment and a lameness examination were performed daily during the first two weeks, and weekly the following 4weeks. Blood samples were taken weekly for hematological and biochemical analysis. At the end of the study period, horses of the IVP group were euthanized for a thorough necropsy and to check for biodistribution. Tissue samples of the injected joint were collected for histological examination. In both CP and IVP treated horses a mild transient subjective increase in periarticular temperature and lameness was noted after the intra-articular injection with no significant differences between the treatment groups. No distribution of the cells was found using immunohistochemistry and no ectopic tissue formation or signs of inflammation were found on histology. A single intra-articular injection of allogeneic chondrogenic induced MSCs combined with allogeneic plasma in horses had the same clinical side effects as an intra-articular injection with saline solution.

The application of electrical pulses in fishing gear is considered a promising option to increase the sustainability of demersal trawl fisheries. In the electrotrawl fishery for brown shrimp Crangon crangon, an electrical field selectively induces a startle response in the shrimp. Other benthic organisms remain mainly on the seafloor and escape underneath a hovering trawl. Previous experiments have indicated that this pulse has no short-term major harmful effects on adult fish and invertebrates. However, the impact on young marine life stages is still unknown. Because brown shrimp are caught in shallow coastal zones and estuaries, which serve as important nurseries or spawning areas for a wide range of marine species, electrotrawling on these grounds could harm embryos, larvae, and juveniles. We carried out experiments with different developmental stages of Atlantic Cod Gadus morhua, which are considered vulnerable to electrical pulses. Three embryonic stages, four larval stages, and one juvenile stage of Atlantic Cod were exposed to a homogeneous electrical field of 150 Vpeak/m for 5 s, mimicking a worst-case scenario. We detected no significant differences in embryo mortality rate between control and exposed groups. However, for the embryonic stage exposed at 18 d postfertilization, the initial hatching rate was lower. Larvae that were exposed at 2 and 26 d posthatch exhibited higher mortality rates than the corresponding nonexposed control groups. In the other larval and juvenile stages, no short-term impact of exposure on survival was observed. Morphometric analysis of larvae and juveniles revealed no differences in measurements or deformations of the yolk, notochord, eye, or head. Although exposure to a worst-case electrical field did not impact survival or development for six of the eight young life stages of Atlantic Cod, the observed delayed hatching rate and decreased survival for larvae might indicate an impact of electric pulses and warrant further research. Received July 20, 2016; accepted April 14, 2017

Pulse fishing may pose a promising alternative for diminishing the ecosystem effects of beam trawling. However, concerns about the impact on both target and non-target species still remain, amongst others the possible damage to the electro-receptor organs, the Ampullae of Lorenzini, of elasmobranchs. The current study aimed to examine the role of pulsed direct current (PDC) used in pulse trawls on the electro-detection ability of the small-spotted catshark, Scyliorhinus canicula. The electroresponse of the sharks to an artificially created prey-simulating electrical field was tested before and after exposure to the pulsed electrical field used to catch flatfish and shrimp. No statistically significant differences were noted between control and exposed animals, both in terms of the number of sharks exhibiting an electroresponse prior to and following exposure as well as regarding the timing between onset of searching behaviour and biting at the prey simulating dipole. These results indicate that, under the laboratory circumstances as adopted in this study, the small-spotted catshark are still able to detect the bioelectrical field of a prey following exposure to PDC used in pulse trawls. However, to fully grasp the impact of PDC on elasmobranchs, further studies are imperative, including examining the effect on reproduction and young life stages, the longer-term and indirect influences and experiments under field conditions.

A proper culling policy in sow herds is a prerequisite to maintain a stable parity profile of the breeding animals and to maintain consistent production. This study investigated reasons for culling of 502 sows from 7 commercial pig herds and examined the reproductive tract of these sows by macroscopical, bacteriological and histopathological examination. Associations between all three examinations were statistically analysed. More than 50% of the sows was culled because of reproduction failure, while old age was the second most common reason (23%). Approximately 75% of the examined uteri were visually normal. Purulent exudate was detected in 18% of the animals. No abnormalities were found in 54% of the ovaries, whereas 28% showed inactivity. Sixty-two percent of the uteri were bacteriologically positive, with Escherichia coli (18%) being the most frequently isolated. Histologically, 52% of the uteri showed mild to severe inflammation. From the uteri with endometritis based on visual inspection and histology, 26% and 30% was bacteriologically negative, respectively. The presence of bacteria showed a slight agreement with macroscopical (κ=0.14, p=0.04) and histopathological endometritis (κ=0.18, p=0.04). No agreement was found between macroscopical and histopathological lesions (κ=−0.06, p>0.05). Major differences were found between herds for all parameters. In conclusion, sows are mostly culled because of insufficient reproductive performance, and many of the culled sows show endometritis lesions. Histopathology appears to be more sensitive than visual inspection.

A 2-day-old Warmblood filly was presented for examination of an angular limb deformity of the left front limb and an upright conformation of both metacarpophalangeal joints. Radiological examination revealed bilateral absence of the metacarpophalangeal joint space with fusion of the third metacarpal bone and first phalanx (synostosis). No treatment was undertaken. The filly was readmitted to the clinic 10 weeks later for bilateral front limb lameness. On radiological examination, the synostosis of the front metacarpophalangeal joints was still present. Physitis of the distal growth plate of the right third metacarpal bone and proximal growth plate of the right proximal phalanx, and an avulsion fracture of the palmaromedial and proximal aspect of the left middle phalanx, with a cystic like lesion on the medial aspect of distal first phalanx and proximal middle phalanx were diagnosed. Given the poor prognosis, the foal was subjected to euthanasia. Post mortem examination confirmed the absence of the metacarpophalangeal joint space with a trabecular bony union between the third metacarpal bone and the first phalanx. A rudimentary joint capsule was present at the level of the absent joints as well as a small zone of articular cartilage, which invaginated over a short distance into the dorsal trabecular bone on the right front limb. On the medial aspect of the left proximal interphalangeal joint, a focal defect of articular cartilage with exposure of subchondral bone was observed. This is the first case report of a foal born with congenital aplasia of both metacarpophalangeal joints. Congenital malformations should be considered as differential diagnosis in lame foals or foals born with angular or flexural limb deformities.

The purpose of this study was to provide more information on the kinetics of the immunological changes occurring in the abomasal mucosa after single and trickle infections with the bovine parasite Ostertagia ostertagi. The time course analysis of gene expression revealed that the major changes coincided with the emergence of adult worms from the gastric glands. These changes consisted of a simultaneous upregulation of Th1- and Th2-type cytokines. In addition, a single O. ostertagi infection elicited an upregulation of the epithelial-derived cytokine IL33, while TSLP expression levels were not impacted. Apart from the massive increase in inflammatory cytokines IL6, IL17 and IL21, O. ostertagi infection also elicited an upregulation of the immunosuppressors TGFB, IL10 and ARG1, as well as NK and γδ-T cell markers. Furthermore, the cytotoxic factors granulysin, perforin and granzyme B were upregulated following an O. ostertagi infection. Analysis of cytokine transcript levels in animals receiving trickle infections for 60 days showed a similar trend as observed following a single infection except for IL33, IL6, GATA-3, TBX21 and NCR1, which were no longer upregulated after trickle infections. Finally, the long trickle infections were associated with mucosal eosinophilia and mastocytosis.

Equine pastern vasculitis is clinically challenging and the underlying aetiopathogenesis is unclear. The aims of this retrospective study were to establish histopathological criteria for pastern vasculitis, to look for an underlying cause, to investigate whether the histopathological lesions are associated with a distinct clinical picture, to assess if and how the clinical picture varies, and to determine the treatment response. Skin biopsies and clinical data from 20 horses with a diagnosis of vasculitis of the distal extremities were investigated and histology was compared to biopsies from healthy horses. It was concluded that intramural inflammatory cells, leukocytoclasia with nuclear dust, thickening and oedema of the vessel walls, and microhaemorrhages are highly specific histological findings in equine pastern vasculitis. Based on the feedback from the clinicians, the lesions were mostly seen on the lateral and medial aspects of un-pigmented legs. Lesions in white skin were characterised by exudation and crusts, whereas those in pigmented skin were alopecic and characterised by scaling. The response to treatment was poor and the prognosis guarded. No association was found between any of the histopathological findings and a distinct clinical picture. An underlying cause of equine pastern vasculitis could not be identified. Considering the large number of confounding factors, the causative agents are difficult to identify, but may involve drugs or a hypersensitivity reactions to yet unknown antigens.

It has been suggested that Sarcocystis species are associated with bovine eosinophilic myositis (BEM). To date, parasite identification in this myopathy has been based on morphological techniques. The aim of the present study was to use molecular techniques to identify Sarcocystis species inside lesions of BEM. Histologically, BEM lesions of 97 condemned carcasses were examined for the presence of Sarcocystis species. Intralesional and extralesional cysts were collected using laser capture microdissection and the species was determined with a PCR-based technique based on 18S rDNA. Intralesional sarcocysts or remnants were found in BEM lesions in 28% of the carcasses. The majority (82%) of intralesional Sarcocystis species were found to be S. hominis. However S. cruzi and S. hirsuta were also found, as well as an unidentified species. It can be concluded that Sarcocystis species present in lesions of BEM are not restricted to one species.

Summary In this article, development of a fluctuating swelling in the middle of the frontal region is reported in 3 horses. Clinical and radiological examinations showed them to be palpably soft, nonpainful, well circumscribed and homogeneous. The diagnosis of a cyst-like lesion is based on centesis and histology. This report describes the clinical features, surgical treatment, outcome and histological findings in all 3 cases.

Case Description—A 4-year-old sexually intact male mixed-breed dog was evaluated because of clinical signs of acute-onset pelvic limb ataxia, rapidly progressing to paraplegia with severe spinal hyperesthesia. Clinical Findings—General physical examination revealed pyrexia, tachycardia, and tachypnea. Neurologic examination demonstrated severe spinal hyperesthesia and paraplegia with decreased nociception. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed extradural spinal cord compression at T13-L1 and hyperintense lesions on T1- and T2-weighted images in the epaxial musculature and epidural space. Treatment and Outcome—Decompressive surgery, consisting of a continuous dorsal laminectomy, with copious lavage of the vertebral canal was performed. Cultures of blood, urine, and surgical site samples were negative. Histologic examination results for samples obtained during surgery demonstrated suppurative myositis and steatitis. These findings confirmed a diagnosis of sterile idiopathic inflammation of the epidural fat and epaxial muscles with spinal cord compression. The dog's neurologic status started to improve 1 week after surgery. After surgery, the dog received supportive care including antimicrobials and NSAIDs. The dog was ambulatory 1 month after surgery and was fully ambulatory despite signs of mild bilateral pelvic limb ataxia 3 years after surgery. Clinical Relevance—Although idiopathic sterile inflammation of adipose tissue, referred to as panniculitis, more commonly affects subcutaneous tissue, its presence in the vertebral canal is rare. Specific MRI findings described in this report may help in reaching a presumptive diagnosis of this neurologic disorder. A definitive diagnosis and successful long-term outcome in affected patients can be achieved by decompressive surgery and histologic examination of surgical biopsy samples.

Ostertagia ostertagi is considered one of the most economically important bovine parasites. As an alternative to anthelmintic treatment, an experimental host-protective vaccine was previously developed on the basis of ASP proteins derived from adult worms. Intramuscular injection of this vaccine, combined with QuilA as an adjuvant, significantly reduced fecal egg counts by 59%. However, the immunological mechanisms triggered by the vaccine are still unclear. Therefore, in this study, the differences in immune responses at the site of infection, i.e., the abomasal mucosa, between ASP-QuilA-vaccinated animals and QuilA-vaccinated control animals were investigated on a transcriptomic level by using a whole-genome bovine microarray combined with histological analysis. Sixty-nine genes were significantly impacted in animals protected by the vaccine, 48 of which were upregulated. A correlation study between the parasitological parameters and gene transcription levels showed that the transcription levels of two of the upregulated genes, those for granulysin ( GNLY ) and granzyme B ( GZMB ), were negatively correlated with cumulative fecal egg counts and total worm counts, respectively. Both genes were also positively correlated with each other and with another upregulated gene, that for the IgE receptor subunit ( FCER1A ). Surprisingly, these three genes were also correlated significantly with CMA1 , which encodes a mast cell marker, and with counts of mast cells and cells previously described as globule leukocytes. Furthermore, immunohistochemical data showed that GNLY was present in the granules of globule leukocytes and that it was secreted in mucus. Overall, the results suggest a potential role for granule exocytosis by globule leukocytes, potentially IgE mediated, in vaccine-induced protection against O. ostertagi .

Neoplastic disorders are frequently encountered in the practice of reptile medicine. Herein we report the clinical behavior, antemortem diagnosis, and histopathologic characteristics of a recurrent intraoral keratinizing basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and a metastatic BCC of the carapace in 2 Hermann’s tortoises ( Testudo hermanni). Although squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs) in tortoises show similar predilection sites and gross pathologic features, the BCCs described in our report were characterized by a remarkably fast and highly infiltrative growth in comparison to SCCs. Accordingly, early diagnosis including reliable discrimination from SCC is essential toward the management of this neoplastic entity in tortoises.

A six-month-old pug was presented with kyphosis and pelvic limb lameness. During a routine neurological and radiographic screening of the vertebral column at two months of age, no congenital abnormalities were noted. Four months later, radiography showed marked kyphosis of the thoracic vertebral column with wedge-shaped T8 and T9. After euthanasia, gross examination and CT revealed the same findings as on radiology. Histopathology of the wedge-shaped vertebrae T8 and T9 showed abnormal caudal growth plates possibly due to necrosis or premature partial fusion. It can be concluded that the vertebral malformation of the spine in this pug was latent at birth and became visible during a growth spurt due to growth plate deficiency. The results of this case can be of clinical importance for veterinarians and breeders of brachycephalic breeds as it would be better to perform radiological screening for wedge vertebrae when the vertebral length growth is more advanced.

Objective—To evaluate the impact of modulation of the membrane-bound efflux pump P-glycoprotein (P-gp) on plasma concentrations of orally administered prednisolone in dogs. Animals—7 healthy adult Beagles. Procedures—Each dog received 3 treatments (control [no treatment], rifampicin [100 mg/d, PO, for 21 days, as an inducer of P-gp], and ketoconazole [100 mg/d, PO, for 21 days, as an inhibitor of P-gp]). A single dose of prednisolone (1 mg/kg, PO) was administered on day 8 of each treatment period. There was a 7-day washout period between subsequent treatments. Plasma concentrations of prednisolone were determined by use of a validated liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry method. Duodenum and colon biopsy specimens were obtained endoscopically from anesthetized dogs and assessed for P-gp protein labeling via immunohistochemical analysis and mRNA quantification via real-time PCR assay. Total fecal collection was performed for evaluation of effects of P-gp modulation on digestion of nutrients. Results—Rifampicin treatment upregulated duodenal P-gp in dogs and significantly reduced the area under the plasma concentration-time curve of prednisolone. Ketoconazole typically downregulated expression of duodenal P-gp, with a subsequent increase in the area under the plasma concentration-time curve of prednisolone. There was a noticeable interindividual difference in response. Digestion of nutrients was not affected. Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Modulation of P-gp expression influenced plasma concentrations of prednisolone after oral administration in dogs. Thus, treatment response to prednisolone may be influenced by coadministration of P-gp–modulating medications or feed ingredients.

Reasons for performing study: In horses, aortic sinus of Valsalva aneurysms or tears in the aortic root are well-recognised conditions in breeding stallions, often leading to sudden death. A more uncommon form of aortic rupture, located proximal to the ligamentum arteriosum has been reported in 3 Friesian horses. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to phenotypically characterise aortic rupture and aorto-pulmonary fistulation in Friesian horses in terms of clinical and post mortem data based on 24 cases. Methods: Friesian horses that were diagnosed with aortic rupture and aorto-pulmonary fistulation over a period of 13 years (19972010) at the Department of Equine Sciences of Utrecht University (n = 15) and Wolvega Equine Hospital (n = 9), were included in this study. Case history, results of clinical examination and gross post mortem findings were screened and analysed. Results: Some cases were found dead without prior symptoms, but in several cases signs such as recurrent colic, peripheral oedema and sustained tachycardia were present for several weeks prior to cardiac failure. Clinical examination during hospitalisation revealed increased rectal temperature, peripheral oedema and increased jugular pulse with a bounding arterial pulse. In the majority of horses an aortic rupture of the aortic arch near the ligamentum arteriosum, concurrent with a circumferential cuff of perivascular haemorrhage and aorto-pulmonary fistulation, was found at post mortem examination. Conclusions: Aorto-pulmonary fistulation in conjunction with aortic rupture is more common in Friesians than previously estimated. In some cases findings demonstrate a progressive pathology rather than acute cardiac failure and sudden death. An appropriate approach is necessary during post mortem examination of the heart in order not to overlook the diagnosis. Potential relevance: Equine practitioners should realise that in Friesian horses presented with a history of recurrent false colic, coughing, sustained tachycardia and/or peripheral oedema, aortic rupture and aorto-pulmonary fistulation should be included in the differential diagnosis.

In an attempt to improve patient outcome and quality of life after laparoscopic ventral hernia repair, resorbable fixation devices have been developed to allow adequate mesh fixation while minimizing accompanying side-effects as tack erosion and adhesion formation.In experimental set-up, 24 pigs were treated by laparoscopic mesh placement. Two different meshes (PP/ORC and PP/ePTFE) and four fixation devices were evaluated: a 6.4 mm poly(D,L: )-lactide pushpin (tack I), a 6.8 mm poly(D,L: )-lactide with blunt tip (tack II), a 4.1 mm poly(glycolide-co-L-lactide) (tack III) and one titanium tack (control tack). A first group of animals (n = 12) was euthanized after 2 weeks survival and a second group (n = 12) after 6 months. At euthanasia, a relaparoscopy was performed to assess adhesion formation followed by laparotomy with excision of the entire abdominal wall. Tensile strength of the individual fixation systems was tested with the use of a tensiometer by measuring the force to pull the tack out of the mesh. Additionally, the foreign body reaction to the fixation systems was evaluated histologically as was their potential degradation.At 2 weeks the tensile strength was significantly higher for the control tack (31.98 N/cm²) compared to the resorbable devices. Except for tack II, the tensile strength was higher when the devices were fixed in a PP/ePTFE mesh compared to the PP/ORC mesh. After 6 months only tack III was completely resorbed, while tack I (9.292 N/cm²) had the lowest tensile strength. At this time-point similar tensile strength was observed for both tack II (29.56 N/cm²) and the control tack (27.77 N/cm²). Adhesions seem to be more depending on the type of mesh, in favor of PP/ePTFE.At long term, the 4.1 mm poly(glycolide-co-L-lactide) tack was the only tack completely resorbed while the 6.8 mm poly(D,L: )-lactide tack with blunt tip reached equal strengths to the permanent tack.

The current study evaluates combined aerosol-vaginal delivery of a MOMP-based Chlamydia trachomatis (serovar E) DNA vaccine in a pig genital challenge model. Most non-replicating antigens are rather poor mucosal immunogens in comparison to replicating antigens. Therefore, a mucosal administered DNA vaccine, which actually mimics a live vaccine, could be promising. Protection was promoted by plasmids encoding the porcine granulocyte macrophage-colony stimulating factor (pcDNA3.1zeo::GM-CSF), the Escherichia coli thermo-labile enterotoxin (LT) subunit A (plasmid PJV2004::LTa) and subunit B (plasmid PJV2005::LTb). Mucosal C. trachomatis DNA vaccination induced significant protection against genital C. trachomatis challenge although the infection could not be eradicated. Intradermal immunization was significantly less efficient in protecting experimentally infected pigs. Protection was correlated with efficient T cell priming and significantly higher serum IgA titers following primo vaccination.

Hydrallantois in the mare is a very rare condition, and clinical reports help to gather information to elucidate its pathogenesis, treatment options and prognosis. Five different cases of hydrallantois in the mare are reported in this article, all with the involvement of placentitis. The five mares were presented because of acute distention of the abdomen, dyspnoea, stiff gait and a lack of appetite. After a gradual release of the excessive amount of allantoic fluid, an abortion was induced in all five mares. The foals were either born dead or euthanized. The mares recovered quickly. One mare conceived within the same season, one remained barren despite several cycles of natural breeding, and no data were available on the other three mares. In this series, the condition is reported for the first time in two Shetland ponies, both pregnant with foals sharing a close genetic background. In both cases, the condition led to hyperlipidemia. The condition as it occurs in nulliparous mares is also discussed. Finally, the possible involvement of placentitis in the pathogenesis is emphasized.

Commercial Pangasianodon catfish production is heavily impacted by Bacillary Necrosis of Pangasius (BNP) caused by Edwardsiella ictaluri. This study aimed to investigate the early bacterium-host interactions following immersion challenge and to compare the retrieved data with the invasion ability of the used isolates in fish cell lines. Firstly, Pangasianodon hypophthalmus fingerlings were challenged via immersion using E. ictaluri isolate HO2 or 223. At different times post inoculation, fish were sacrificed and gill and internal organ samples were taken for bacteriological, histological and immunohistochemical evaluation. The bacterial load was higher for fish inoculated with isolate HO2 compared with 223. Histological and immunohistochemical analysis revealed multifocal necrotic areas in kidney, spleen and liver of HO2 inoculated fish at 72 h post inoculation with short rod-shaped immunoperoxidase positive bacteria clustered inside cells respectively. Bacteria especially were present in the gills and intestinal tract of HO2 inoculated fish, suggesting the gastrointestinal tract and gills act as portals of entry. Following, the ability of HO2, 223 and four additional isolates to invade a Chinook salmon embryo cell line, a fat head minnow cell line and a rainbow trout liver cell line was tested. All E. ictaluri isolates were invasive in all cell lines albeit at different degrees. Isolate HO2 was highly invasive in all cell lines with a significantly higher invasion capacity than isolate 223 in the Chinook salmon embryo cell line. A correlation between in vivo virulence and in vitro invasiveness hence is suggested although further studies are needed to confirm this hypothesis.

Bovine eosinophilic myositis (BEM) is a subclinical myopathy characterized by multifocal white to grey-green discolorations in skeletal muscles, heart, tongue and oesophagus. These lesions are found at slaughter or during meat cutting and result in considerable economic losses. The etiology and pathogenesis are unclear, although it has been suggested, that Sarcocystis species are involved. To elucidate their role, two calves were repeatedly injected intramuscularly with adjuvanted Sarcocystis antigen. The morphological changes at the injection sites in these calves were histologically and immunohistochemically compared to spontaneous lesions from 44 BEM condemned carcasses sampled in slaughterhouses. Experimental intramuscular injection of Sarcocystis antigen resulted in lesions at the injection sites that were similar to the lesions of natural cases of BEM. They were characterized by massive infiltration of eosinophilic granulocytes, reactive macrophages (MAC387(+) cells), T-cells (CD3(+)) and B-cells (CD20(+)). Both in the experimental and in the natural cases, COX-2 expression was present in endothelial cells adjacent to lesional areas. MHC class II(+) staining was found amongst others in muscle cells surrounding the lesion. These results show that Sarcocystis antigens can induce an inflammatory response in bovine muscle having the characteristics of natural BEM.

The interactions of Flavobacterium columnare isolates of different virulence with the gills of carp (Cyprinus carpio L.) and rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss Walbaum) were investigated. Both fish species were exposed to different high (HV) or low virulence (LV) isolates and sacrificed at seven predetermined times post-challenge. Histopathological and ultrastructural examination of carp and rainbow trout inoculated with the HV-isolate disclosed bacterial invasion and concomitant destruction of the gill tissue, gradually spreading from the filament tips towards the base, with outer membrane vesicles surrounding most bacterial cells. In carp, 5-10% of the fish inoculated with the LV-isolate became moribund and their gill tissue displayed the same features as described for the HV-isolate, albeit to a lesser degree. The bacterial numbers retrieved from the gill tissue were significantly higher for HV- compared to LV-isolate challenged carp and rainbow trout. TUNEL-stained and caspase-3-immunostained gill sections demonstrated significantly higher apoptotic cell counts in carp and rainbow trout challenged with the HV-isolate compared to control animals. Periodic acid-Schiff/alcian blue staining demonstrated a significantly higher total gill goblet cell count for HV- and LV-isolate challenged compared to control carp. Moreover, bacterial clusters were embedded in a neutral matrix while being encased by acid mucins, resembling biofilm formation. Eosinophilic granular cell counts were significantly higher in the HV-isolate compared to LV-isolate inoculated and control carp. The present data indicate a high colonization capacity, and the destructive and apoptotic-promoting features of the HV-isolate, and point towards important dynamic host mucin–F. columnare interactions warranting further research. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13567-015-0164-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Background Thoracic aortic rupture and aortopulmonary fistulation are rare conditions in horses. It mainly affects Friesian horses. Intrinsic differences in biomechanical properties of the aortic wall might predispose this breed. The biomechanical and biochemical properties of the thoracic aorta were characterized in warmblood horses, unaffected Friesian horses and Friesians with aortic rupture in an attempt to unravel the underlying pathogenesis of aortic rupture in Friesian horses. Samples of the thoracic aorta at the ligamentum arteriosum (LA), mid thoracic aorta (T1) and distal thoracic aorta (T2) were obtained from Friesian horses with aortic rupture (A), nonaffected Friesian (NA) and warmblood horses (WB). The biomechanical properties of these samples were determined using uniaxial tensile and rupture assays. The percentages of collagen and elastin (mg/mg dry weight) were quantified. Results Data revealed no significant biomechanical nor biochemical differences among the different groups of horses. The distal thoracic aorta displayed an increased stiffness associated with a higher collagen percentage in this area and a higher load-bearing capacity compared to the more proximal segments. Conclusions Our findings match reported findings in other animal species. Study results did not provide evidence that the predisposition of the Friesian horse breed for aortic rupture can be attributed to altered biomechanical properties of the aortic wall. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12917-015-0597-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Animal products enriched with n-3 fatty acids (FA) are receiving increasing interest because of the health benefits attributed to these FA. However, responses to the intake of enriched products with different n-3 fatty acid sources have not been properly assessed. Rabbits were fed a pelleted diet simulating a meat-based adult human diet. The meat fatty acid profile was steered by feeding pigs a diet with linseed or fish oil. Significant changes in the fatty acid profile of different tissues and blood were found in the rabbits. During the experiment, the total cholesterol (TC)/high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-cholesterol (HDL-C) ratio decreased and the TC/low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol (LDL-C) ratio increased in the fish oil pork group, while for the linseed oil pork group the TC/HDL-C ratio increased and no effect was measured for the TC/LDL-C ratio. The oxidative status was altered by the dietary treatments compared with the baseline and atherosclerosis developed during the experiment, but no differences between the two feeding groups were found. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS The beneficial health effects of n-3 fatty acids (FA) are mainly attributed to the very long chain n-3 FA eicosapentaenoic acid (C20:5n-3, EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (C22:6n-6, DHA). However, in most n-3-enriched food products, α-linolenic acid (C18:3n-3, ALA) is used as the source of n-3 FA, assuming that conversion of ALA to EPA and DHA will occur in the body after consumption. In this research, health biomarkers were evaluated in rabbits after consumption of pork enriched with n-3 FA originating from linseed oil- (ALA) or fish oil- (DHA + EPA) fed pigs. The results highlight the importance of selecting the appropriate n-3 fatty acid source for enriching food products, as pork from fish oil-fed pigs differently affected health parameters compared with pork from linseed oil-fed pigs.

Helicobacter (H.) suis is the most prevalent non-H. pylori Helicobacter species colonizing the stomach of humans suffering from gastric disease. In the present study, we aimed to unravel the mechanism used by H. suis to induce gastric epithelial cell damage. H. suis lysate induced mainly apoptotic death of human gastric epithelial cells. Inhibition of γ-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) activity present in H. suis lysate and incubation of AGS cells with purified native and recombinant H. suis GGT showed that this enzyme was partly responsible for the observed apoptosis. Supplementation of H. suis or H. pylori GGT-treated cells with glutathione strongly enhanced the harmful effect of both enzymes and resulted in the induction of oncosis/necrosis, demonstrating that H. suis and H. pylori GGT-mediated degradation of glutathione and the resulting formation of glutathione degradation products play a direct and active role in the induction of gastric epithelial cell death. This was preceded by an increase of extracellular H(2)O(2) concentrations, generated in a cell-independent manner and causing lipid peroxidation. In conclusion, H. suis and H. pylori GGT-mediated generation of pro-oxidant glutathione degradation products brings on cell damage and causes apoptosis or necrosis, dependent on the amount of extracellular glutathione available as a GGT substrate.