Molecular identification, occurrence, and risk factors for small Babesia species among American Stafford Terriers in Serbia

In Serbia, Babesia canis is the predominant cause of canine babesiosis, while B. gibsoni and B. vulpes have been reported only sporadically. Limited awareness of these small Babesia species often leads to misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment. International reports in-dicate that American Staffordshire Terriers (ASTs) and related breeds are particularly af-fected. This study examined 101 ASTs over a two-year period to determine the occurrence of small Babesia species and identify dog- and owner-related risk factors. Collected data included age, sex, body condition score (BCS), clinical signs, presence of scars, history of vector-borne diseases (VBD), living conditions, antiparasitic prophylaxis, and tick expo-sure. Molecular identification using PCR and Sanger sequencing revealed that 37 dogs were positive for Babesia spp.; among them, 36 were infected with B. gibsoni and one with B. vulpes. Significant risk factors associated with infection included the presence of scars, low BCS, history of VBDs, tick exposure, and living in rural areas. These findings demon-strate a notably high occurrence of B. gibsoni and the presence of B. vulpes in ASTs in Ser-bia. The results highlight the need for improved awareness, accurate molecular diagnos-tics, and targeted preventive and therapeutic measures. Additionally, observed risk fac-tors suggest chronic infection and support transmission pathways linked to dog bites and tick exposure

Histological insight into systemic host response to k-carrageenan-based films enhanced with honey and calendula officinalis extract

Biomaterijali bazirani na prirodnim polimerima su u regenerativnoj medicini sve zastupljeniji, pre svega zbog odlične biokompatibilnosti i biorazgradivosti, čime je i mogućnost mehaničkog oštećenja tkiva domaćina smanjena. Ipak, njihova brza razgradnja i sistemska apsorpcija mogu dovesti do neželjenih sistemskih reakcija. Filmovi na bazi κ-karagenana, sa dodatakom meda i ekstrakta cveta nevena u koncentracijama od 5% (C3) i 10% (C7), su dobijeni metodom izlivanja rastvora. Cilj ovog istraživanja je bio da se kod pacova Wistar soja, histološkom analizom aksilarnih i brahijalnih limfnih čvorova, proceni sistemski odgovor organizma na novodobijene filmove. U blizini mesta implantacije filmova C3, C7 ili lažne operacije (kontrolna grupa – Ctr) su uzeti uzorci iz 36 limfnih čvorova, a zatim su napravljeni preparati obojeni hematoksilin-eozinom i toluidinskim plavim. Za histološku analizu limfnih čvorova, koja je podrazumevala procenu strukture tkiva, procentualnu zastupljenost aktiviranih limfnih folikula i gustinu mastocita, je korišćen mikroskop Olympus CX31. Kod svih ispitivanih uzoraka je zapažena očuvana struktura i odsustvo granulocita. Procenat aktiviranih limfnih folikula je bio viši u grupama C3 i C7 (37,53 ± 13,49 i 43,13 ± 23,17) u odnosu na Ctr (18,90 ± 25,45). Broj mastocita na mm² površine tkiva je, takođe, bio viši u C3 i C7 (51,67 ± 6,66 i 46,50 ± 29,09) u poređenju sa Ctr grupom (39,25 ± 23,24). Međutim, statistički značajne razlike nisu utvrđene ni u broju mastocita, niti u procentualnoj zastupljenosti aktiviranih limfnih folikula. Rezultati ukazuju da ispitivani filmovi na bazi κ -karagenana ne izazivaju neželjeni sistemski odgovor organizma i da su bezbedni za upotrebu u daljim kliničkim ispitivanjima.Natural polymer-based biomaterials are increasingly recognized in regenerative medicine due to their excellent biocompatibility and biodegradability, which minimizes the mechanical disruption to host tissues. However, their rapid degradation and systemic absorption could potentially cause harmful systemic reactions. Using solution casting method κ-carrageenan-based films with addition of honey and Calendula officinalis extract in concentrations of 5% and 10% (C3 and C7, respectively) were fabricated. The aim of this study was to assess the systemic host response to the novel films in Wistar rats by analyzing the histological structure of axillary and brachial lymphatic nodes. Tissue sections of 36 lymphatic nodes close to the regions of C3 and C7 implantation, or sham operations (Ctr) were stained with Hematoxylin-Eosin and Toluidine blue. The histoarchitecture, percentage of activated lymphatic follicles and density of mast cells were analyzed using Olympus CX31 microscope. All lymph nodes showed preserved histoarchitecture and absence of granulocytes. The percentage of activated lymphatic follicles was higher in the C3 and C7 groups (37.53 ± 13.49 and 43.13 ± 23.17 respectively) compared to the Ctr (18.90 ± 25.45). The number of mast cells per mm² was also higher in C3 and C7 groups (51.67 ±6.66 and 46.50 ± 29.09 respectively) compared to the Ctr (39.25 ±23.24). However, statistical analysis revealed no significant differences in either mast cell counts or the proportion of activated lymphatic follicles. Our findings suggest that there is no adverse systemic host response to the tested κ-carrageenan-based films and that these biomaterials are safe for further clinical testing.Zbornik radov

Ishrana autohtonih rasa domaćih životinja u održivim sistemima gajenja

U održivim sistemima razvoja stočarstva, daje se prednost autohtonim vrstama i rasama domaćih životinja jer su one pre svega proizvod specifičnih uslova: klimatskih, istorijskih, ekonomskih, a sa druge strane otporne su na bolesti i imaju duži vek iskorišćavanja. Autohtone rase su nastale na određenom geografskom području i prilagođene su uslovima života sa tog područja. U Srbiji imamo nekoliko autohtonih rasa goveda, ovaca, svinja i živine koje su adaptirane na klimatske uslove tradicionalnog uzgoja na ovom području. Sa druge strane, pod pritiskom društva, a i same poljoprivredne zajednice, proizvodnja namirnica animalnog porekla kreće se prema sistemu proizvodnje koji uključuje bolji tretman i dobrobit životinja, vodi računa o našim, ali i resursima životne sredine, a u isto vreme rezultira i proizvodima koji ne sadrže neželjene ostatke hemikalija. Prve značajnije potrebe potrošača za organski proizvedenom hranom javljaju se sredinom prošlog veka paralelno sa promocijom organskih bašti. Autohtone rase koje se efikasno gaje u različitim ekosistemima (šumskim, pašnjacima) uz kombinaciju proizvodnje hrane za njihovu prehranu, donose ne samo mogućnost očuvanja genetičkih resursa ovih životinja, već i ekonomski povoljan ambijent za stvaranje profita i isplative proizvodnje. U ovom radu prikazan je botanički sastav biljaka na pašnjacima u opštini Dimitrovgrad, Srbija, kao značaj resurs i nutritivna strategija za ishranu autohtonih rasa životinja. Vraćanje tradicionalnom načinu uzgoja i ispaše ovaca i goveda doprinelo bi ne samo obnovi biljnih vrsta i povećanju njihove sposobnosti za opstanak, već i povećanju broja domaćih autohtonih vrsta životinja sa ovih područja. Takođe, tradicionalno gajenje domaćih svinja u šumama i na obalama ravničarskih reka su jedan od sistema koji zavređuju pažnju kada je u pitanju očuvanje ugroženih autohtonih rasa.Zbornik predavanj

Strukturne osobenosti slezine autohtonih magaraca sa područja Srbije

Zbornik radova i kratkih sadržaj

Morphometric analysis and sex dimorphism of the autochthonous Lipe sheep

Lipe sheep is an autochthonous and endangered breed endemic to a limited area in Serbia, representing an important element of national livestock biodiversity. As a locally adapted genetic resource belonging to the Pramenka group of sheep, it holds ecological, cultural, and production-related value. However, population decline and exclusion from intensive breeding programs have made the population vulnerable to genetic erosion. This study evaluated sexual dimorphism of the Lipe sheep through body measurements, craniometric, and pelvimetric morphometry. A total of 19 adults (10 ewes and 9 rams, aged 2.5 to 3.5 years) were analyzed. Results showed highly significant differences between sexes for body traits (p < 0.001), with rams consistently exhibiting greater val-ues. Significant dimorphism was observed in cranial traits, with rams displaying more pronounced characteristics. Rams also had yellowish to dark, large, triangular, and spirally twisted horns, a key feature of sexual dimorphism. In contrast, no significant differences were found for pelvic traits, suggesting a well-developed pelvis in ewes, ensuring easy lambing and uniform pelvic conformation. These findings indicate that the Lipe sheep exhibits stronger sexual dimorphism in body and cranial morphology while maintaining functional uniformity in pelvic structure. The study contributes to a broader characterization of the Lipe sheep and provides a foundation for targeted conservation and breeding strategies. Preserving this breed helps maintain agrobiodiversity and strengthens its role as a valuable genetic resource.Book of abstract

Genetski napredak kod malih preživara – da li ga prate reproduktivne tehnike?

U cilju postizanja intenzivnijeg i ekonomičnijeg razvoja ovčarstva, neophodna je primena različitih tehnologija asistirane reprodukcije (engl. Assisted Reproductive Technologies – ART). Selektivno oplemenjivanje „prirodnim putem”, zahteva mnogo vremena, dok ART metode, kao što su: veštačka oplodnja, indukcija i sinhronizacija estrusa, multipla ovulacija i embriotransfer (MOET), in vitro oplodnja, seksiranje semena i embriona, pa sve do transgeneze i kloniranja, povećavaju stope genetskog progresa i obezbeđuju dobijanje većeg broja potomaka od genetski superiornih roditelja. Generacijski interval se značajno može umanjiti kombinovanjem postupka veštačke oplodnje kao jedne od najstarijih i najčešće korišćenih ART metoda, sa novijim tehnikama, kao što su: sinhronizacija estrusa, superovulacija, in vitro proizvodnja i prenos embriona. Seksiranje semena ovnova više nije novost, kao ni određivanje pola embriona. Transgenezom je moguće promeniti genom potomstva u smislu funkcionalnog brisanja ili dodavanja specifičnih gena (npr. specifičnog gena plodnosti ili tovnosti). Sa ovim unapređenim rasama se, uz primenu intenzivnog uzgoja koji je sasvim u skladu sa prirodnim mogućnostima Srbije, može očekivati znatniji razvoj farmi malih preživara i na nivou porodičnih farmi.Zbornik predavanj

Identification of a mould of the Scedosporium genus isolated from milk of a cow with mastitis

This case report presents the basic parameters that led to the identification of a mould from the genus Scedosporium, isolated from mastitic cow’s milk. The macroscopic and microscopic characteristics of the isolate and the result of the identification by MALDITOF mass spectrometry are given. As this is the first report on the identification of Scedosporium in the Balkan region, the data could be useful for laboratories in the region working with materials of animal origin

The Water Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) as an autochthonous genetic and diary resource in Republic of Serbia

Autochthonous breeds are considered as valuable reservoirs of genetic diversity owing to their capacity to adapt under specific ecological and economic conditions. Among these, the water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) holds particular importance in European agriculture, especially in Italy, Romania, Bulgaria, and parts of the Balkans. In Serbia, buffalo populations have traditionally been concentrated along major river basins. Most herds are found in central and southern Serbia, restricted to areas where traditional buffalo husbandry has been maintained due to geographic factors and cultural practices. However, according to FAO data, their numbers have markedly declined over the past decades, with some local populations approaching extinction. Over the past five years, the Serbian water buffalo population has ranged between approximately 1,100 and 1,600 head, having a peak in 2022. According to the most recent records, the population now numbers just under 1,500 animals. In general, water buffalo are classified into Swamp and River subspecies, each with unique production traits and geographic distribution. Swamp buffalo are primarily kept in South and Southeast Asia, where they serve as draught animals and produce modest quantities of milk and meat. In contrast, River buffalo, which predominate in Europe, have been selectively bred for high milk yields and are the foundation of traditional dairy industries that produce specialty cheeses highly valued by consumers. Buffalo milk is characterized by its rich composition, containing 6–8% fat, elevated protein levels, and a high proportion of total solids, making it particularly suitable for processing into mozzarella and various traditional cheeses. In addition to their valuable milk traits, buffaloes are recognized for their ability to thrive under suboptimal conditions, their effective feed utilization, and their resilience to various infectious diseases. Conservation of this genetic resource is fundamental for maintaining adaptive capacity and supporting the socio-economic sustainability of rural production systems. It is essential to implement selection and conservation programs and promote the valorization of buffalo-derived products in order to preserve this culturally valuable species in Europe

Cooked-emulsified rabbit meat sausages: a technological challenge or sustainable solution?

Rabbit meat is characterized by a high content of biologically valuable proteins, low levels of fat, cholesterol, and sodium, appreciable quantities of n‑6 and n‑3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), and substantial amounts of B-complex vitamins, particularly vitamin B12. Given its favorable nutritional profile, rabbit meat is well-suited for the formulation of cookedemulsified sausages, particularly those with added value aimed at health-conscious consumers. From a technological standpoint, rabbit meat possesses specific characteristics that can be an advantage or challenge in the production of cooked-emulsion sausages. Therefore, this paper highlights the technological characteristics of rabbit meat and considers its suitability for the production of cooked-emulsified sausages

Application of infrared ocular thermography for welfare and meat quality assessment of slaughter pigs

Infrared ocular thermography is a non-invasive tool used in the pork industry to quickly assess animal stress and its impact on meat quality. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between the infrared ocular temperature and blood indicators and meat quality traits in slaughter pigs. The study was conducted on 60 market-weight pigs (average live weight of about 110 kg and 6 months old) of the same genetics. Infrared ocular thermography images were obtained immediately after stunning. Blood samples were collected at exsanguination to determine glucose level and oxidative stress biomarkers, including advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP), ceruloplasmin, reduced glutathione (GSH), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), total oxidant status (TOS) and the oxidative stress index (OSI). Meat quality traits, including pH, temperature, colour (L*, a* and b* values), water-holding capacity (drip, thawing and cooking loss) and pork quality classes, were measured. Pigs with infrared ocular temperatures above 32 ºC had higher plasma concentrations of GSH and TOS. Pork obtained from the same group of pigs had higher cooking loss and a* value, along with tendency towards higher L* and b* values. Furthermore, pigs with infrared ocular temperatures above 32 ºC had higher tendency towards development of pale, firm and nonexudative meat. These results indicate that elevated ocular temperature is linked to oxidative stress and changes in meat quality, suggesting a connection between pre-slaughter stress and post-mortem meat characteristics. In conclusion, infrared ocular thermography has potential as rapid, non-invasive tool for assessing pig welfare and predicting pork quality