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The safe administration of the blood products in transfusion medicine requires precautionary measures i.e. blood typing and crossmatching between donor and recipient. Regarding this, teaching staff of the Department of Physiology and Radiobiology and Clinic for Internal Diseases of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb decided that veterinary students should learn about dog and cat blood groups and crossmatching in extensive details already in the second year of undergraduate study. The main purpose of this report is to describe the objectives, adopted procedures, produced teaching material, and proposed future students activities. The methodological unit "Blood groups and typing in dogs and cats, crossmatching procedure" was incorporated into the existing curricula of obligatory course “Physiology of domestic animals I”. Teaching was prepared as practical work lasting for 3 school hours. First part lasting 1 hour comprised introduction in blood groups when and how transfusion is applied in the clinic, and possible consequences due to transfusion reactions. After explaining step-by-step the protocol of the crossmatching (types, principle, procedure and interpretation), students work in pairs under supervision. Based on results, which are obtained by analysing samples using a microscope, e.g. positive agglutination of red blood cell (irregular/unexpected antibodies in either donor or recipient’s blood) they conclude on blood compatibility between the donor or recipient’s blood. Through objectives, introduction and practical work this methodological unit was designed and performed to provide the deep understanding of blood types and crossmatching procedure for veterinary students. Step-by-step instructions will enable a knowledge for students, which they will further develop in higher years of study. The results of this project could be useful in the improvement of training programs in veterinary transfusion medicine et Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb.

The problem of the erosion of animal genetic resources is evident in certain local donkey breeds, and their long-term sustainability can be achieved by economically repositioning them. To develop alternative and sustainable commercial programs, the meat and milk production characteristics of Istrian donkey and Littoral Dinaric donkey breeds were investigated. The meat production characteristics were examined in mature males, whose carcasses were dissected, and meat composition was determined using NIT spectrophotometry and gas chromatography. Milk yield and milk composition were determined in jennies in second or subsequent lactations by measuring milk volume and using infrared spectrometry and gas chromatography. Compared to the Littoral Dinaric donkey, the Istrian donkey has a higher carcass weight and dressing percentage (p < 0.001). The share of boneless meat in relation to live weight was 28.27% in the Istrian donkey and 26.18% in the Littoral Dinaric donkey. The absolute masses of primal cuts of meat in E, I, and II classes were significantly greater in Istrian donkeys than in Littoral Dinaric donkeys (p < 0.01), although the differences in the proportions of primal cuts were not significant. The breed did not have a significant impact on the color, pH, or meat composition. A significant influence of breed on milk yield, lactose, protein, and the fat content of milk was observed (p < 0.01). A significant influence of breed on the ratio of n-6/n-3 PUFA fatty acids in donkey milk was observed (p = 0.002). The values of the atherogenic and thrombogenic indexes were favorable, considering potential beneficial effects of donkey milk and meat on consumer health. The findings of this research suggest that local donkey breeds hold significant potential for meat and milk production, focusing on the uniqueness and quality of their products rather than the quantity of meat and milk they can produce.

The aim of this abstract was to share experiences and outcomes of being active in international society of education in dissemination of education methods and knowledge in animal sciences. The International Society of Education in Animal Sciences (ISEAS) is an independent non-profit association founded by employees of higher-educational institutions in Europe being registered in Spain in July 2019 and comprising 89 members. ISEAS was founded with the primary goal of gathering educators who use animals and animal models in their teaching, enabling their close interaction, networking, exchange of knowledge, teaching methodology and experiences. In the academic year 2021/2022 association members designed and held online five workshops and one round table. Workshops were discussing and sharing knowledge on the analysis of biological materials by gas chromatography ; the salivary proteome in food acceptance and selection in animals ; on drug poisoning of cats and dogs ; on fetotomy as well as on communication and dissemination of information in higher education. The round table was focusing on the challenges in teaching veterinary histology during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Activities in knowledge and experience dissemination continued in academic year 2022/2023 with nine more workshops dealing with fetotomy ; preanalytical phase in laboratory diagnostics ; the swot matrix to train students’ decision-making ; histological methods of processing samples in histology and histopathology ; salivary proteomics in ingestion and digestion research ; endoscopic examinations in a small practice ; artificial insemination in dogs ; Wild Animal Recovery Project – WildRescueVEF – how it was created and the VEF Community Garden project. Participants of the workshops were scientists, professors and students. The students showed particular interest in the workshops on drug poisoning of dogs and cats and fetotomy. The establishment and activities carried out in one such international association involving scientists, teachers and students is a good example of intertwining of teaching methodology, networking, social activities and experience to apply knowledge for human development.

The aim of this work was to share experiences and outcomes of using live animal-based teaching and training of veterinary students. Student interaction with live animals is effective method of achieving goals such as acquisition of skills in observation in situ physiological process, animal behaviour and handling of animals prior sampling. Department of Physiology and Radiobiology (UFR) of Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of the University of Zagreb (FVM) started using live animal-based teaching and training since academic year 2019/2020 mostly with dogs, rats, and mice. We issued a consent from the Committee for Ethics in Veterinary Medicine of FVM on the ethical acceptability of the use of live animals, in the teaching of the Physiology of Domestic Animals I and II in Croatian and English programme. The live animals-based teaching and training is used for demonstration of venepuncture sites, palpation of subcutaneous lymph nodes, as models for electrocardiography and electromyography recording, auscultation of heart sounds and palpation of superficial arteries regarding heart rate determination, observation and auscultation of breathing, observation of feeding behaviour, auscultation of rumination, and observation of behaviour in memory and learning. This method of teaching was welcomed by students and proved effective in connecting physiology course objectives and learning outcomes. Students expressed content of being able to see and pet live animals as well as better understand physiology in visualisation of theory. Students also were more excited and more interested when using live animals compared to using of models for palpation or demonstration of venepuncture sites. In conclusion, live animals-based teaching and training have a pedagogical merit but it also teaches students to balance the ethical and responsible animal care with their educational value. Live animals-based teaching and training provide observation and comparison skills that instill in students a respect for the value of life and the importance of responsible animal care.

Fermented feed products have been investigated to reduce the use of antibiotic growth promoters and decrease feed price in swine production. Fermentation product contains amino acids, nucleotides, minerals, and other bioactive compounds which have an enzymatic effect on plant cell wall non-starch polysaccharides, resulting in increased availability of cytoplasm plant cell protein, starch and fat. The aim of this study was to determine influence of fermentation product of selected Aspergillus spp. strains on hematological parameters of swine. A total of 80 growing- finishing crossbreed pigs were used for the feeding trial. Pigs were randomly assigned to one of two dietary treatments with 40 pigs per treatment in two pens. Control group (initial body weight ; BW 32.09 kg) was fed a corn-soybean meal. The diet for experimental group (initial BW 31.13 kg) containing 0.5% dry yeast fermentation product (YFP) and soybean meal was reduced by 2%. Blood was collected at slaughterhouse and total number of blood cells, hemoglobin concentration and hematocrit values were determined by hematology analyzer using veterinary software. Differential leukocyte counts were determined from blood smears stained by the Pappenheim method. All parameters determined in present study were within reference range. Mean corpuscular volume was significantly higher and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration was significantly lower in group fed diet supplemented with YFP. Total number of erythrocytes, leucocytes, and platelets as well as differential blood count were not affected with in YFP diet supplementation. Final body weight of control group was 121.05 kg and was similar to body weight of swine fed diet supplemented with YFP and 2% less soybean meal (121.45 kg). Based on results it can be concluded that supplementation with YFP did not alter immune function but it did enable decrease feed price due to reduction in soybean meal ratio.

Aktivni metabolit vitamina D 1, 25(OH)₂D₃ ima mnoge važne uloge u organizmu ptica i sisavaca. U intenzivnoj proizvodnji je važno pravodobno praćenje zdravlja peradi, pri čemu hematološke i biokemijske pretrage mogu biti od iznimnog značenja. Cilj ovog istraživanja bio je utvrditi utjecaj dodavanja 1, 25(OH)₂D₃-glikozida biljnog podrijetla u hranu na ukupan broj i populacije leukocita, te koncentracije kalcija, fosfora i magnezija u krvi. Istraživanje je provedeno na 10000 nesilica kokoši teške linije Ross 308. Pokusnoj skupini nesilica u hranu je umiješan 1, 25(OH)₂D₃-glikozid biljnog podrijetla, dok je kontrolna skupina konzumirala komercijalno dostupnu hranu, sukladno preporukama za genetiku. Uzorci venske krvi uzeti su punkcijom krilne vene u epruvete s litijevim heparinom kao antikoagulansom i u epruvete s gelom. Krv je uzorkovana 14., 25. i 35. dana od početka dodavanja pripravka vitamina D u hranu. U uzorcima krvi određen je ukupan broj leukocita te su iz krvnog razmaza morfološki diferencirane populacije leukocita. Izračunat je apsolutni broj pojedinih morfoloških oblika leukocita te omjer heterofila i limfocita. U uzorcima seruma određene su koncentracije kalcija, fosfora i magnezija. U ovom istraživanju dodavanje 1, 25(OH)₂D₃-glikozida biljnog podrijetla u hranu nesilica dovelo je do smanjenja ukupnog broja heterofila, limfocita i eozinofila uz povećanje postotka limfocita te povećanje koncentracije kalcija i magnezija u krvi. Na osnovi rezultata možemo zaključiti kako suplementiranje nesilica 1, 25(OH)₂D₃-glikozidom nakon 55. tjedna starosti privremeno smanjuje omjer H/L ukazujući na manju osjetljivost na stres, te povećava koncentraciju kalcija u serumu, čime je omogućena proizvodnja kvalitetnije ljuske jajeta.

The components of milk provide valuable nutrients for the human body. Milk fat is one of the most complex natural fats that consist of approximately 400–500 fatty acids (FAs). According to the number of double bonds, the FA are classified in saturated fatty acids (SFA), monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA), and polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA), where sum of MUFA and PUFA are total unsaturated FAs (UFA). The aim of the study was to evaluate the nutritional lipid quality indices in milk of different animals. Milk samples were collected from Croatian Lipizzan mares (N = 17), Simmental cows (N = 15), Istrian donkey jennies (N = 30) and Saanen goats (N = 15). Total lipids from the milk samples were extracted and the analysis of methyl esters of FAs was performed using gas chromatography. Indices of concern were: the PUFA/SFA, the hypocholesterolemic/ hypercholesterolemic index (h/H = [(C 18:1+PUFA)/(C14:0+C16:0)]), index of atherogenicity (AI = (C12:0+4*C14:0+C16:0)/UFA), the index of thrombogenicity (TI = C14:0+C16:0+C18:0)/[(0.5*MUFA)+(0.5*n-6)+ (3*n-3)+ (n-3/n-6)]), and the peroxidation index (PI = (monoenoic acid*0.025)+ (dienoic acid*1)+(trienoic acid* 2)+(tetraenoic acid*4). Mare’s milk showed the highest PUFA/SFA index, while cow’s milk had the lowest ratio. The h/H index was the highest in mare’s milk ; mean values were calculated for goat’s and donkey’s milk, while the lowest index was found in cow’s milk. The higher concentration of C12:0, C14:0, and C16:0 in cow’s milk can increase the cholesterol concentration in serum by inhibiting the activity of low-density lipoprotein receptors. The AI as well as TI were the lowest in mare’s milk, mean values were calculated for goat’s and donkey’s milk, while the highest index was found in cow’s milk. These indices depend on the SFA concentration due to C12:0, C14:0, and C16:0 favour the adhesion of lipids to cells of the circulatory and immunological systems and have pro-thrombogenic effect in blood vessels. Mare’s, donkey’s, and goat’s milk had n-6/n-3 ratio below 4.0, which is recommended level by the World Health Organisation ; while in cow’s milk it was 4.54. In mare’s milk PI was 41, which compared to PI values for donkey’s (19), goat’s (10) and cow’s milk (3.4), makes it very sensitive to oxidation. Based on results it can be concluded that mare’s milk has the most favourable nutritional lipid quality indices, but due to high PI, it is recommended to be cooled down quickly, and when fresh, to be used within 6–9 hours after milking.

Composition of fatty acids (FAs) of different tissues can provide insight into feeding patterns, physiological status, and health assessment, which is especially important for free-ranging top predators. In that regard, this study was conducted on 18 individuals (F, N=12 ; M, N=6) that mostly died as road or railroad mortalities during 2015-2018. Low sample number can be explained by the fact that gray wolf (Canis lupus, GW) in Croatia is strictly protected species and since 2013 there have been no legal interventions in the population. Samples from hind leg muscles (HLM), subcutaneous (SAT) and perirenal (PAT) adipose tissues were collected from different GW habitats throughout Croatia. After homogenization and lipid extraction, the FA composition of tissues was determined by gas chromatography. Saturated FA were the most represented in HLM lipids, followed by polyunsaturated FA and monounsaturated FA (SFA:PUFA:MUFA ; 4.1:3.0:2.9 in females vs. 4.1:3.6:2.3 in males). In SAT and PAT occurrences were as follows, MUFA:SFA:PUFA=4.7:4.1:1.3, females vs. 4.5:4.5:1.0, males and 4.8:3.9:1.3, females vs. 4.1:4.8:1.1, males. Younger (25 kg) had significantly higher percentages of C18:2n-6 and C15:0 compared to younger (32 kg) males in HLM. Lighter females (

Milk fat contains over 400 fatty acids (FAs) with a different number of carbon atoms, various degrees of saturation: saturated (SFA), monounsaturated (MUFA), and polyunsaturated (PUFA), with cis and trans configuration and straight or branched carbon chains. Natural trans FAs typically arise from ruminant microbiota activity during the ruminal biohydrogenation of dietary FAs. Mainly C18 monoenoic trans FAs are formed with predominance of the 11 isomer trans- vaccenic (C18:1t-11) and trans-elaidic FA (C18:1t- 9). The FA composition of milk has numerous effects on milk quality including its physical properties and nutritional value. Approximately half of the FAs in the milk are sourced from the blood. The aim of this study was to determine C18:1 isomers in goat’s milk and serum. The research was carried out on 15 clinically healthy Saanen goats in two lactational phases (early, around 30th lactational day, L1 ; late lactation, around 150th lactational day, L2) and dry period (D). After the extraction of total lipids from the milk and serum samples, the analysis of methyl esters of FAs was performed using gas chromatography. The most predominant isomer in goat’s milk, expressed as % of total FAs in milk (mean±SD), was C18:1c-9 (20.2±3.4%), followed by C18:1t-11 (6.6±1.7%), then by C18:1t-9 (1.8±0.8%) and C18:1c-11 (0.8±0.2%). Only C18:1c-9 showed significant difference in representation in two lactational phases, being significantly higher in L1 compared to L2 (22.9±2.6% vs. 17.8±1.9% ; p

Lead as an ubiquitous environmental pollutant of natural and anthropogenic origin enters a bear’s organism mostly via food and water. It is initially found in the bloodstream bound to red blood cells and reflects recent exposure. As a non-essential metal, lead causes adverse health effects on a developing nervous system (maternal transfer), renal, cardiovascular, haematological, immunological and reproductive system. Unlike in humans or domestic animals, there is no threshold for ursid blood Pb levels. Information about the lead exposure in this predator species is of high conservation interest. Our aim was to compare lead levels across captive and free-ranging brown bears from two European populations (Dinara-Pindos and Carpathian) sampled between 2011 and 2019 using the inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) method. The median (range) level of lead in 32 bears from Croatia and 15 from Poland was 64.0 (5.08 ̶ 187 µg/L) and did not differ between countries. Levels were similar to Scandinavian and Canadian brown bears, three-times higher than in the Yellowstone black bears and three times lower than reported for giant pandas. Free-ranging bears had higher Pb (med 67.8 µg/L) compared to captive individuals (med 32.8 µg/L), although not significantly (t(47) = -1.94, p = 0.058). Blood lead also displayed gender differences (t(47) = -2.26, p = 0.028) with higher levels in female (med 80.6 µg/L) than in male (med 45.1 µg/L) bears. Eleven of the 47 individuals had blood levels over the threshold for an adult human (100 µg/L), but none surpassed the levels considered toxic for large domestic animals.

The composition and incorporation of fatty acids (FA) in blood cells is the resultant of food intake, metabolism and peripheral utilization. Essential polyunsaturated FA (PUFA), linoleic (LA, C18:2n-6) and linolenic (LNA, C18:3n-3) cannot be synthesized by most mammals therefore have to be ingested. They serve multiple functions, and the balance between dietary n-3 and n- 6 PUFA strongly affects cellular functions. Eicosapentaenoic (EPA, 20:5n-3) docosahexaenoic (DHA, C22:6n-3) and arachidonic acid (AA, C20:4n- 6) are known as "conditionally essential". The objective of the study was to analyse the FA composition of erythrocytes and whole blood in free-ranging (Dinara-Pindos and Carpathian populations) and captive brown bears. The study was conducted on 29 animals (16, Croatia ; 13, Poland). Total lipids were extracted and the composition of FA methyl esters was determined by gas chromatography. Lipids isolated from the blood of free-ranging Croatian and Polish bears were dominated by saturated FA (SFA, 65.7±14.3% vs. 45.0±4.3% ; p0.05), while in freeranging Polish bears (N=10) those were monounsaturated FA (MUFA, 31.9±3.1% vs. 13.6±6.5% in Croatia ; p0.05). Significantly higher percentages of LNA (2.1±1.1 vs. 0.3±0.1%), AA (8.5±8.1 vs. 0.3±0.2%), DHA (1.8±0.9 vs. 0.7±0.5%) and AA/EPA ratio (0.9±0.6 vs. 0.04±0.02) were found in free-ranging Croatian compared to free-ranging Polish bears. Significantly higher LA (14.98±0.78 vs. 4.39±0.99%), EPA/DHA ratio (9.92±2.15 vs. 2.22±0.02%) and n-3 PUFA family (15.41±1.89 vs. 10.18±2.08%) were found in captive bears from Poland compared to those in Croatia. The FA representation, especially of essential FA, can provide an important health assessment, while variation in the diet FA composition may have an influence on some aspects of animal performance.

Summer semester lecturing at Faculty of Veterinary Medicine University of Zagreb, Croatia, in the academic year 2019/2020 was held online due to COVID- 19. The teaching staff of Physiology of domestic animals II adapted to the new conditions by preparing online materials for teaching and assessment. The study aimed to conduct a comparative analysis of points achieved from lecture, seminars and practical class attending, seminars and practical class activity, two tests and oral final exam between online live teaching (the academic year 2019/2020) and traditional off-line teaching (the academic year 2018/2019) in students in Croatian program and international students studying in English. The study was performed on 125 (academic year 2018/2019) and 121 (academic year 2019/2020) students in the Croatian program and 11 (academic year 2018/2019), and 23 (the academic year 2019/2020) English program students. The number of points of tests and points of active participation in seminars and practicals and the total number of points was higher during online teaching than classroom teaching (p0.05). English program students had a higher number of points only in active participation in seminars and practicals (p0.05). Based on the grades of the exam, we can conclude the theoretical knowledge was approximately at the same level, and since it is a matter of acquiring skills in practical classes, online materials cannot replace work in the practical room.

Cetaceans have been shown to exhibit three layers within the blubber with each layer performing a different function ; for example, stable outer layer used for structural support, more variable inner layer for energy storage. The aim was to determine fatty acid (FA) composition of blubber in two dolphin species found in the Adriatic Sea. The study was conducted on 8 animals, bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus ; 2 females, F and 4 males, M) and striped dolphin (Stenella coeruleoalba ; 1 F, 1 M) sampled during 2018. Blubber was divided horizontally into outer (OL), middle (ML) and inner layer (IL). Tissue samples were homogenized, total lipids extracted than composition of FA was determined by gas chromatography. Blubber OL and ML of striped dolphin was dominated by monounsaturated FA (MUFA, 55.2±8.2% ; 49.1±2.8%) while in IL by polyunsaturated FA (PUFA, 41.7±2.6%). In contrast, all three blubber layers of bottlenose dolphin were dominated by MUFA (OL, 63.1±6.6% ; ML, 55.1±6.8% ; IL, 49.0±5.7%). Regarding blubber FA composition in striped dolphin most differences were between ML vs. IL (very long n-3 PUFA, 14.1±4.8% vs. 36.8±3.4% ; n-3, 15.2±4.2% vs. 37.5±3.6%, all at p

Blood profiles, which includes haematology parameters provide a useful tool to assess the physiological status of reptiles that may be influenced by several internal and environmental factors. In the available literature, data on blood morphometric parameters in snakes are not available or are very scarce. Therefore, the aim of current study was to determine the values of red blood cell (RBC) morphometric size and shape parameters and to investigate the differences in RBC morphometric parameters between genders in corn snakes (Pantherophis guttatus). Blood samples, from 7 snakes (3 males ; 4 females), were taken from the ventral tail vein. The smears were confectioned on slides immediately after the blood collection and stained according to the May-Gründwald Giemsa method. Morphometric analyses were performed on 700 RBCs in stained blood smears using SFORM computer-assisted program. Following morphometric RBCs and RBCs nucleus size, parameters were determined: area, outline, convex area, minimal and maximal radius, length and breadth, as well as calculated morphometric RBCs shape parameters: ellipticity, elongation, solidity, roundness, form factor, contour index. Significantly higher values of RBCs maximal radius, length, ellipticity and elongation were established in females, respectively. Conversely, significantly higher values of RBCs nucleus maximal radius and length were determined in male snakes. In conclusion, males had significantly wider erythrocytes with a longer nucleus, and females, on the contrary, more elongated, elliptical erythrocytes with a wider nucleus. Knowledge of physiological morphometric parameters of snake RBC and physiological differences within the species is a prerequisite for the correct interpretation of pathologically altered erythrocyte morphology.

The aim of this work was to share experiences related to teaching on integrated under-graduate and graduate courses in veterinary medicine, in elective course Physiology of Amphibians and Reptiles. For academic year 2020/2021 we redistributed three hours of lectures to three hours of practical work for the purpose of improving the subject. We introduced new teaching unit regarding captive care and feeding of reptiles that include observation of live animals in their terrariums. Proper captive care can prevent the onset of many diseases and is often used for conservation of endangered species. Reptiles used were: bearded dragon (Pogona vitticeps), common musk turtle (Sternotherus odoratus), Cuvier’s dwarf caiman (Paleosuchus palpebrosu), leopard gecko (Eublepharis macularius) and veiled chameleon (Chameleon calyptratus). We divided students into five groups. Each group had a task to study materials regarding captive care for one of five reptile’s species and to make a research regarding feeding of a particular species. Then each group of students observed terrariums and checked the following: terrarium dimensions, humidity (day time, night time), temperature (day time, night time, basking), water, lighting and hydration cycle, UV index, terrarium substrate, percentage of water and dry surface, environment enrichment. Students made a report regarding observed condition and captive care of animals with emphasis to positive and negative keeping conditions plus possible suggestions in condition approvement. Student reports showed that Cuvier’s dwarf caiman did not have appropriate terrarium dimension and substrate for bearded dragon had to be replaced with more suitable one. As a result, Cuvier’s dwarf caiman was moved to bigger enclosure. Students expressed satisfaction by being able to see and observe live animals as well as by contribution to better captive conditions. In conclusion, having live animals in preclinical courses is obligatory for students to become familiar with animal’s physiology and to collect more knowledge that will be of use in clinics.

Tekuti na farmama peradi uzrokuju znatne gubitke u proizvodnji. Najučestalija je tekut (Deramanyssus gallinae), koja uzrokuje dermatitis, iritaciju, anemiju, pad nesivosti, ali i uginuće. Za suzbijanje su najčešće korišteni kemijski pripravci koji su zbog razvoja rezistencije i rezidua u proizvodima izašli iz upotrebe. Zbog visoke invadiranosti za suzbijanje tekuti na farmama upotrebljavaju se različiti pripravci temeljeni na eteričnim uljima, silikatnim mineralnim pripravcima i sl., često nedovoljno učinkoviti. U ovom istraživanju praćena je učinkovitost novijeg pripravka fluralanera u jatu kokoši nesilica lake pasmine. Pripravak je primijenjen prema uputama proizvođača u dozi 0,5 mg po kilogramu putem vode za piće, dvokratno s razmakom od sedam dana. Praćena je invadiranost jata zamkama prije i nakon terapije, kao i nesivost kokoši. Rezultati pokazuju znatan pad broja tekuti u zamkama do devet dana nakon terapije te nestanak tekuti u objektu. Nesivost jata na farmi uspoređena je s prethodnim jatom, a rezultati pokazuju znatno višu nesivost u korist tretiranog jata. Potrebno je analizirati i hematološke parametre kako bi se utvrdio učinak pripravka na brzinu uspostave fiziološkog stanja organizma., Mites cause significant losses on poultry farms. The prevalence of poultry red mite (Deramanyssus gallinae) is significant on poultry farms where it causes dermatitis, irritation, anemia, a drop in egg production, but also mortality. Previously chemical substances were commonly used for mite control, but because of the development of resistance and residues in poultry products, they have been abandoned. Due to high mite infestations on farms, novel products, based on essential oils, silica oxide etc., were used, but without prolonged high effectivity. In this research, we monitored a layer hen flock after treatment with the novel product fluralaner. The product was used according to the manufacturers’ recommendation in a dose of 0.5 mg per kilo via drinking water, twice, with a 7 day interval. Infestation was monitored using paper traps, before and after the treatment, as well as the laying rate. The results showed a significant drop in mite count in traps until 9 days after treatment and the disappearance of mites from the building. The laying rate was compared to the previous flock, and the results showed a significantly higher average laying rate in the treated flock. Hematological parameters should be further analyzed to determine the effect of therapy on the dynamics of the restoration of physiological values.

Rast i razvoj mliječne žlijezde počinje u prenatalnom razdoblju. Izrazito brz razvoj mliječne žlijezde možemo uočiti u pubertetu i gravidnosti. Endokrini sustav koordinira razvoj mliječne žlijezde s reproduktivnim sustavom i potrebom potomaka za mlijekom. Razvoj mliječne žlijezde do početka stvaranja mlijeka naziva se mamogeneza. Za mamogenezu iznimno su važni hormon rasta, čimbenik rasta 1 sličan inzulinu, glukokortikoidi, hormoni štitne žlijezde i spolni hormoni. Tijekom gravidnosti za rast i razvoj mliječne žlijezde potrebni su progesteron, estrogen, prolaktin, hormon rasta, placentalni laktogen, inzulin i kortikosteroidi. Početak proizvodnje mlijeka naziva se laktogenezom. Prvi sekret koji alveolarne stanice mliječne žlijezde proizvedu naziva se kolostrumom. Održavanje proizvodnje mlijeka naziva se galaktopoezom, pri čemu su broj sekretornih epitelnih stanica i proizvodnja mlijeka u korelaciji. Laktogenezu primarno kontrolira prolaktin, a otpuštanje mlijeka oksitocin. Prolaktin ima brojne funkcije i luči se iz prednjeg režnja hipofize. Ključan je za ekspresiju gena za sintezu bjelančevina mlijeka. Oksitocin je bitan za kontrakciju mioepitelnih stanica na površini alveola i duž kanalića mliječne žlijezde. Ostali hormoni koji su bitni za laktaciju jesu kortizol, progesteron, hormon rasta i estrogeni. Glavni dio organskih sastojaka mlijeka sintetizira se samo u epitelnim stanicama mliječne žlijezde. Četiri su glavne komponente u mlijeku: bjelančevine, masti, laktoza i minerali. Ako se vime ne prazni do kraja, proizvodnja mlijeka smanjuje se jer alveole i sekretorno tkivo involuiraju.

Heart muscle is a specific organ in the body that performs continuous work and requires continuous energy supply which includes oxidation of fatty acids (FA). The storage of lipids in heart is small, and FAs are available from the diet and fat depots. Literature states that FA profile of heart, as compared to other muscles and fat, is characterised by a high contribution of polyunsaturated FA (PUFA). Several recent studies in humans and in animal models showed that males (M) and females (F) differ in the composition of cell membrane and plasma phospholipids. To our knowledge FA composition of brown bear heart muscle was not investigated, therefore that was the objective of this study. The study was conducted on 30 free-ranging brown bears from Croatia (15 F, 15 M ; 14 subadult, 16 adult) sampled during 2017. Tissue samples were homogenized, and total lipids extracted, then FA composition was determined by gas chromatography. Heart muscle lipids were dominated by PUFA (F, 41.75±9.1% vs. M, 35.3±4.7%, p0.05). Subadult females had significantly higher percentage of n-3 PUFA compared to subadult males (18.1±1.6% vs. 14.85±4.2%). However, females from Gorski kotar region had significantly lower percentage of docosahexaenoic (DHA, C22:6n-3) acid, (0.3±0.2% vs. 0.6±0.2%), compared to males. Furthermore, compared to males, females had significantly lower percentage of DHA in autumn (0.2±0.2% vs. 0.7±0.01%), as well as C18:1n-9, MUFA and PUFA in spring (19.2±4.7% vs. 24.8±4.9% ; 36.3±7.2% vs. 43.1±4.6% ; 44.8±10.5% vs. 36.6±3.2%). These findings imply that differences in the heart FA composition could be due to differences in gender, season, habitat, and the supply of FA from the diet and fat depots. The results present valuable contribution for better understanding of heart muscle physiology.

Preanalytical phase, the most vulnerable part of laboratory diagnostics influences the laboratory results. The main errors in preanalytical phase could be avoided if education process is harmonized with diagnostic facilities. The aim of the study was to assess the level of knowledge on preanalytical phase in two groups of students volunteering in Internal Diseases Clinic (IC) and Surgery, Orthopedics and Ophthalmology Clinic (SC), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb. The study was performed using an anonymous questionnaire with 13 statements related to preanalytical phase. The questionnaire was completed by 15 volunteers in IC and 9 volunteers in SC. Although analysis showed that there were no significant differences, volunteers in IC had higher proportion of correct answers (82%) compared to volunteers in SC (66%). If our questionnaire would be treated as a test, 27% of IC students and 33% of SC students have had less than 60% of correct answers, and therefore would have failed the test. Students from IC have better results according to handling blood samples (100%) compare with students from SC (67%) but both groups are unaware of importance of proper sample storage (13% IC ; 22% SC). Results showed that students understand relevance of blood and anticoagulant ratio (100% correct answers in both groups) but experience of laboratory staff indicate that clinicians do not apply it. Although volunteers know that hemolysis and lipemia are the most frequently encountered interferences in serum (87% IC ; 100% SC), 60% students from IC and 44% students from SC understand that creatine kinase activity is not reliable in hemolytic serum. Urine protein and creatinine ratio is relevant parameter of kidney damage but only 27% volunteers in IC and 11% in SC understand that urine total protein concentration is not reliable in hematuria. In conclusion, although it is expected that level of knowledge in volunteers is higher than in general veterinary medicine student population, more than 25% of student included in survey did not answer correctly. The results showed that preanalytical protocols should be implemented in education programs of veterinary medicine students

The choice of anticoagulant is an important preanalytical factor in laboratory diagnosis. Errors in anticoagulant selection can be avoided or reduced if it is found to affect certain biochemical analytes. The aim of this study was to compare values of some biochemical parameters in dog EDTA plasma and serum samples. Paired plasma (EDTA anticoagulant) and serum samples were collected from cephalic vein of 15 dogs. Serum and EDTA plasma samples were obtained after centrifugation at 1600 g for 10 min. Concentrations of urea, creatinine, total proteins, albumin, glucose, bilirubin, and C-reactive protein (CRP), and activities of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and creatine kinase (CK) were measured in the paired plasma and serum samples with Abbott reagents on the Abbott Architect Plus c4000 biochemical analyser. The differences in concentrations of urea, creatinine, total proteins and albumin, and in activities of AST, ALT and GGT between serum and EDTA plasma were less than 5%. Glucose concentrations were up to 40% lower in EDTA plasma than in serum. Bilirubin concentrations were lower in EDTA plasma than in serum (16-30%). Alkaline phosphatase activity was significantly lower in EDTA plasma (78-95 %) than in serum. Activity of CK ranged from -18% to +68% in EDTA plasma compared with serum. Concentrations of CRP in EDTA plasma samples were higher than in serum (38-80%) in samples where the CRP was less than 10 mg/L. When the CRP concentration was above 23 mg/L, the CRP differences in EDTA plasma vs. serum were up to 11%. In conclusion, urea, creatinine, total proteins and albumin, and in AST, ALT and GGT can be reliably assayed from either serum or plasma samples in dog samples. Glucose, bilirubin AP, CK should always be assayed in serum. The determination of CRP in EDTA plasma can provide an approximate result, but the control samples must be repeated in EDTA plasma.

The aim of this study was to evaluate fatty acid (FA) composition of whole blood, plasma and washed erythrocytes (RBC) of captive corn snakes (Pantherophis guttatus). We determined 15 FAs in blood samples, with SFA (saturated FA) as the most represented group followed by MUFA (monounsaturated FA) and PUFA (polyunsaturated FA). The most presented FAs in this study ; C16:0, C18:0, C18:1n-9, C18:2n-6, could be explained by high representation of those FAs in chicken embryos liver and muscles. Ratios of linoleic to palmitoleic acid (C18:2n- 6/C16:1), oleic to palmitic (C18:1n-9/C16:0) in our study possibly reflect postabsorptive phase in snakes. Due to a small number of samples, future research should include comparison of a multiple samples.

There are structural and metabolic differences between adipose depots and it is generally assumed that the fatty acid (FA) composition of all adipose tissue within an individual is the same. Some studies did not detect any site-specific differences, but some consistent differences have been reported. To our knowledge, FA composition of brown bear perirenal adipose tissue (PAT) has not been investigated, so the objective of this study was to determine the FA composition of this tissue. The study was conducted on 18 free-ranging brown bears from Croatia (8 females, F ; 10 males, M) sampled during 2015 hunting season. Tissue samples were homogenized, total lipids extracted than composition of FA was determined by gas chromatography. PAT was dominated by monounsaturated FA (F, 45.5±2.6% vs. M, 43.3±1.7%, p0.05), while least represented were polyunsaturated FA (PUFA, 3.2±1.9% vs. 2.6±1.2%, p>0.05). Females had significantly lower percentage of C16:2 (1.0±0.3% vs. 3.8±1.2%) compared to males. When compared to our previously published results (F, N=19 ; M, N=57 ; ) regarding FA composition of subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT), PAT of females had 1.7 times higher representation of SFA and 2.1 times lower representation of PUFA. Furthermore, PAT of males had 1.7 times lower representation of PUFA than SAT of males. Essential C18:2n-6 showed difference in representation in females comparing the two adipose tissues (PAT, 2.4 times lower than SAT). Physiological significance of differences in the FA composition of two adipose tissue locations in the body is possibly dependent on factors such as dietary fat composition, energy balance, and metabolic activity as well as some factors that have to be determined. Regarding this, larger numbers of brown bear PAT samples in different seasons, emphasizing the influence of autumn and spring, have to be investigated.

Background. The early lactation and early neonatal period are characterized by intense changes in energy metabolism and the aim of this study was to evaluate blood biochemical parameters of energy metabolism. Methods. The study was carried out on 13 Simmental cows and 13 beef suckler calves in cow-calf operations. Blood samples were obtained at 6, 12 and 48 h (hours) and 7, 14 and 30 d (days) postpartum (pp). Concentrations of glucose, total protein, albumin, urea, triacylglycerols, total, HDL (high density lipoproteins) and LDL (low density lipoproteins) cholesterol, BHB (beta- hydroxybutyric acid) and NEFA (non-esterified fatty acids), insulin and IGF-I were determined. Results. In cows, glucose concentration was lower at 30 d pp than at 6 h pp (P

Research of fatty acid composition of different tissues and body fluids is an important tool for monitoring of health and nutrition in domestic animals and humans as well as ecology status of wildlife individuals. To maintain health and high yield production in domestic animals the source of fatty acids from food (natural and synthetic) is important. Furthermore, it is imperative to understanding the fatty acids and lipid metabolism as well as fatty acids tissue incorporation. The intake of certain fatty acids or essential fatty acids has an impact on animal and human health. There is a vast majority of different research that link some fatty acids with risk of diseases, especially diseases of cardiovascular system. Knowing the fatty acid composition of different tissues, subcutaneous adipose tissue, can give an insight into individual feeding habits, especially free-roaming wild animals. Fatty acid composition of adipose tissue is based on the physiological incorporation of food ingredients into adipose tissue, thus the fatty acid composition of the diet is reflected in the fatty acid composition stored in the adipose tissue, although not entirely. In some ecosystems, some fatty acids are only available in a few types of food and can be used as a nutritional marker providing detailed information on wildlife feeding habits. Therefore, we are especially interested in such fatty acids, referred to as trans fatty acids, which may serve as useful biomarkers since they are incorporated into adipose tissue and they cannot be endogenously synthesized by carnivores. Better knowing of feed habits, health and ecology status is of a great importance for management plans in managing certain, protected species. Based on the results of our research that will be presented, there is a growing importance of knowing and understanding of fatty acid metabolism and relation to health.

The effects were measured of low-doses of gamma radiation within 24 hours after irradiation on the activity of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and levels of glutathione (GSH) and lipid peroxide concentrations (malondialdehyde, MDA) in embryonic chick liver. The chick embryos were irradiated with doses of gamma radiation of 0.05, 0.15, 0.3, 0.5 and 0.8 Gy at the dose rate of 0.0117 Gy/s on day 19 of incubation. All parameters were measured 1, 3, 6, 12 and 24 hours after irradiation by spectrophotometry, apart from the level of lipid peroxidation, which was assessed using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). A versatile analysis of the data was made and it consisted of: 1) a comparison of the means of antioxidant enzyme activities and GSH and MDA concentrations for each radiation dose and the time after irradiation with the corresponding control samples; 2) research into the temporal dynamics of enzyme activities and concentrations a) for each value of radiation dose and b) when the data for radiation doses were merged, i.e. regardless of the radiation doses. A significant increase in GSH- Px activities in time after irradiation was found in dose intervals from 0.05 to 0.5 Gy, which was well described by linear function. This is a highly reliable result, because it was obtained as a result of all the analyses applied. For other parameters, we did not find any dependence of activities and concentrations on time. The analysis of comparison of means of the irradiated and control samples gave statistically significant results for some dose-time pairs., U ovom je radu istražen učinak malih doza gama-zračenja na aktivnost glutation-peroksidaze (GSH-Px), superoksid-dismutaze (SOD), katalaze (CAT) te koncentraciju glutationa (GSH) i malondialdehida (MDA) u jetri kokošjih zametaka. Kokošji su zametci ozračeni dozom od 0,05, 0,15, 0,3, 0,5 i 0,8 Gy gama-zračenja i brzinom doze od 0,0117 Gy/s 19. dana inkubacije. Aktivnost GSH-Px, SOD, CAT i GSH određena je spektrofotometrijski dok je koncentracija MDA određena tekućinskom kromatografijom visoke učinkovitosti (HPLC). Svi su pokazatelji određivani 1, 3, 6, 12 i 24 sata nakon ozračivanja a rezultati su obrađeni različitim statističkim metodama pri: 1) usporedbi prosječnih vrijednosti svih pokazatelja pokusne s odgovarajućom kontrolnom skupinom; 2) određivanju vremenske dinamike za sve vrijednosti promatranih pokazatelja kada su bile: a) ovisne o dozi zračenja i b) neovisne o dozi zračenja tj. kada su vrijednosti pokazatelja svih doza bile međusobno spojene. Aktivnost GSH-Px u ozračenih kokošijih zametaka bila je značajno povećana primjenom svih statističkih metoda u rasponu doza od 0,05 Gy do 0,5 Gy te je imala linearnu funkciju. Rezultati ostalih pokazatelja nisu pokazali promjene vrijednosti tijekom vremena promatranja.

Follicular fluid (FF) proteins originate from blood plasma and theca, granulosa cells and oocyte. The FF proteins regulate follicular development and oocyte maturation. Among numerous functions, they are acute phase proteins (APP) and proteins with antioxidant properties. Ceruloplasmin and haptoglobin are APP and protect follicular cells from oxidative damage binding copper and haemoglobin. The aim of the study was to determine follicle size and estrous cycle phase related changes in concentration of ceruloplasmin and haptoglobin. For the better insight in non- protein antioxidative molecules, biological antioxidant potential (BAP) was determined. Oxidative processes intensity was examined by reactive oxygen metabolites (ROMs). The bovine ovaries were collected from naturally cycling animals at a local abattoir. The stage of estrous cycle (follicular or luteal) was identified according to presence or absence of the corpus luteum on the ovary. Follicular diameter was measured and follicles were classified according to diameter: small (≤5 mm ; N=18 luteal phase ; N=14 follicular phase), medium (6-10 mm ; N=14 luteal phase ; N=12 follicular phase) or large (>10 mm ; N=12 luteal phase ; N=14 follicular phase) follicles from ovaries in both follicular and luteal stage of estrous cycle. Ceruloplasmin and haptoglobin concentrations and biological antioxidant potential (BAP) and concentration of ROMs were analysed in FF punctured from ovaries in follicular and luteal phase of estrous cycle. Concentrations of BAP and haptoglobin significantly decrease from small to large follicles collected in both luteal and follicular phase. The highest concentration of ceruloplasmin in FF was determined in medium size follicles but changes was not statistically significant compare to small and large follicles. During folliculogenesis, in luteal phase follicles ROM concentration significantly decreased from small to large follicles. During folliculogenesis ceruloplasmin negatively correlate with haptoglobin but significant correlation was noted only in small follicles from luteal phase (r= - 0.70 ; p

Faculty of Veterinary Medicine (FVM), University of Zagreb was founded in 1919. Since academic year 2015/16 FVM Zagreb offers university graduate course, which is conducted as an integrated under-graduate and graduate course in veterinary medicine and lasts 6 years (12 semesters). Upon completion, the academic title of Doctor of Veterinary Medicine is awarded and a diploma is fully recognised throughout the EU. Objectives of this study were to evaluate student work in class and at the final exam on Physiology of domestic animals I course (PDA I) by comparing the results of students in Croatian program (CP) and foreign students studying in English program (EP) during the two academic years, 2017/2018 (year I) and 2018/2019 (year II). In the year I, PDA I in EP was enrolled by 6 students (two from Israel, one from Greece, France, Hungary and Slovenia), and in the year II by 12 students (three from Germany, two from France and England, one from Lebanon, Finland, Canada and Croatia). In the year I, PDA I in CP was enrolled by 113 students and in the year II by 122 students. During semester, a student must gain points from lecture and practical class attending, practical class activity, two tests and oral final exam. All students studying in EP in year I fail to pass first test comprises general and blood physiology, and 50% in the year II. Second test, which comprises muscle and nervous systems physiology, 50% in both generations of students studying in EP failed to pass. These results are probably due to inappropriate terminology and lack of detailed explanation how to fulfil tests. Number of points gained in second test was significantly higher in students in CP (p=0.021) and points gained from lecture and practical class attending and practical class activity was significantly lower compared to students in EP (p=0.022). All other measured parameters were similar in students in both programs. In conclusion, the number of students in the first two generations was as small as our English language teaching experience. Communicating with the students in the EP, we changed and improved the teaching materials and adapted the presentation mode to allow studying in a stimulating environment for all students at FVM Zagreb.

Background. Oxidative stress is important for promoting the oocyte maturation and ovulation within the follicle. The aim of the study was to examine activities of the superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and biological antioxidant potential (BAP) involved in protection against free oxygen radicals and concentration of reactive oxygen metabolites (ROMs) in bovine follicular fluid. Methods. Bovine ovaries were obtained from a slaughterhouse. The stage of estrous cycle (follicular or luteal) was identified. Follicular fluids (FF) were collected by puncture from three categories of follicles: small (≤5 mm), medium (6-10 mm) or large (>10 mm) from ovaries in both follicular and luteal stage of estruos cycle. Results. The results indicate a significantly higher activity of SOD in bovine FF from follicles in luteal stage of estruos cycle than in follicular stage (p=0.037). In FF of follicles in both stages of estrous cycle, SOD activity and BAP were significantly higher in FF of small and medium sized follicles than in large ones (p=0.000 both). The ROMs significantly declined from small to large follicles in FF collected during both, luteal and follicular phase of estrous cycle (p=0.005 both). Activity of GPx showed no significant differences regarding neither estrous cycle nor size of follicles. Conclusions. Results indicate similar antioxidative properties of bovine follicles during both luteal/follicular stage of estrous cycle with higher SOD activity in FF of follicles in luteal stage of estrous cycles which undergo atresia.

The aim of our study was to determine indexes of insulin resistance (IR) in early postpartum period (pp) in cows and their calves kept in a beef suckler system. The study was conducted on 13 Simmental cows and their calves. We calculated following indexes values: RQUICKI (Revised Quantitative Insulin Sensitivity Check Index) and its modified version RQUICKIBHB, HOMA (Homeostatic Model Assessment) and QUICKI (Quantitative Insulin Sensitivity Check Index) based on serum concentrations of glucose, insulin, NEFA (non esterified fatty acids) and BHB (β-hydroxybutyrate), sampled 6, 12 and 48h and 7 and 14 d pp. Cows were grouped according to lactation number (2nd to 4th lactation, 1st group ; and 5th to 8th lactation, 2nd group) and calves according to gender. Results showed that RQUICKI was higher in 1st group of cows (p>0.05) and showed progressive increase during pp period in both groups. In 1st group of cows RQUICKI was lower 6 and 12h pp than 14d pp (p=0.01). HOMA was higher in 2nd group of cows (p>0.05) ; HOMA was higher 12h pp than 48h, 7 and 14 d pp (p=0.01) as well as 6h pp than 7 and 14d pp (p=0.01). QUICKI showed the same trend in both groups, progressive decrease from 6h to 14d pp (p=0.001, 1st group ; p=0.001, 2nd group). In calves, HOMA was higher in females (p>0.05). In females HOMA was lower 6h pp than 7 and 14d pp (p=0.03). RQUICKIBHB was higher in females than in males (p=0.03). RQUICKIBHB showed progressive decline from 6h pp to 14d pp in females (p=0.004). Changes in trends of IR indexes may help in analysis of decreased sensitivity or responsiveness to the metabolic actions of insulin as well as in determination of metabolic status of animals.

Avian metabolism is more intense than metabolic rate in mammals. Therefore, the consumption of oxygen in avian species is more intensive, which means that birds are exposed to a higher oxidative stress due to an increased level of free radicals. The objective of this study was to determine the influence of fasting and refeeding on the concentrations of glutathione (GSH) and lipid peroxide measured as reactive products of the thiobarbituric acid (TBARS) in blood and the glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PDH) activity in chicken erythrocytes. At the age of 61 days, Lohman Brown cockerels were exposed to a 48-h fasting and afterwards to a 24-h refeeding. The blood for the analysis was taken from the wing vein before fasting (control values), after the 48-h fasting, and then 24 h after refeeding. The concentrations of GSH and TBARS and the activity of G6PDH were determined and expressed per gram haemoglobin. In cockerels, the concentration of GSH in blood after refeeding was significantly higher than the control and fasting values. The TBARS concentration did not show significant differences throughout the experiment. The activity of G6PDH after the 24-h refeeding significantly decreased compared to the control level. Based on the results, we can conclude that the GSH concentration during 48 h was maintained at similar levels as the control values, probably due to the transport from the liver and other organs. After refeeding, GSH was increased considering the absorption from the intestine and synthesis, which compensated the reduced G6PDH activity. Lipid peroxidation decreased as a result of a lower intensity of metabolism during fasting

The heart rate variability (HRV) analysis is an important tool in cardiology. HRV shows the fluctuating time between normal sinus beats (RR intervals) and indicates modulation of the heart rate by the autonomic nervous system (ANS). The purpose of the study was to determine HRV in anesthetised cats subjected to elective castration. Therefore, the Poincaré plot analysis, a method to assess the dynamics of HRV, was performed. The research was performed on 80 domestic cats. For the ‘dexKB’ group (20 male and 20 female cats), combinations of the anaesthetics dexmedetomidine 40 μg/kg ketamine 5 mg/kg and butorphanol 0.4 mg/kg were administered. For the ‘domKB’ group (20 male and 20 female cats) an anaesthetic combination of medetomidine 80 μg/kg, ketamine 5 mg/kg and butorphanol 0.4 mg/ kg was administered. A quantitative analysis of HRV was displayed by the Poincaré plot by adjusting it to an ellipse. For the performance analysis, the SD1 (Standard Deviation 1), SD2 (Standard Deviation 2), Poincaré index (PI) and the area of the ellipse were used as evaluation parameters. The female cats had the highest PI 60 min after anaesthetics administration and two times larger area of the ellipse in ‘dexKB’. SD1 and SD2 increased linearly up to 60 minutes in the females. In the male ‘dexKB’ cats, the highest PI was recorded 120 min and in ‘domKB’ 30 min after the administration of anaesthetics. The area of ellipse differs in time and the highest area was in the male ‘dexKB’ cats 60 min after anaesthetics administration, while in ‘domKB’ the highest area was 120 min after the application of anaesthesia. SD1 and SD2 in the male ‘domKB’ cats increased during anaesthesia and in ‘dexKB’ they increased up to 30 min after the anaesthetic combination administration. The analysis provides a qualitatively and quantitatively visual measure of ANS activity, a decrease in sympathetic and increase in parasympathetic activity, and can be used for a better dynamic monitoring during the induction of anaesthesia in the ‘dexKB’ and ‘domKB’ cats.

The Edible dormouse is Croatian autochthonous game. Hunted dormice can be used in nutrition and dormice oil is traditionally used in wound treatment in some regions of Croatia. So, the objective of this study was to determine the fatty acid (FA) composition of the liver, kidney and subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) in Edible dormouse (Glis glis) and the influence of gender. This study was conducted on 17 Edible dormice (10 females and 7 males). Samples of SAT, the liver and the kidneys were collected during the legal hunting season (September– October 2017). The samples of tissues were homogenised, total lipids extracted by using the Folch et al. (1957) method and FA composition was determined by gas chromatography. The most prevalent FA in the kidneys and SAT of Edible dormice were monounsaturated FA (MUFA). The most prevalent MUFA in both tissues was C18:1cis-9 (53.17 ± 10.53 ; 40.98 ± 9.01, respectively). The second abundant FA were saturated FA (SFA), with C16:0 (22.29 ± 6.52 ; 19.72 ± 7.94, respectively) as the most prevalent FA. The least represented were polyunsaturated FA (PUFA), of which the linoleic acid (C18:2n- 6) had the highest concentration. The highest number of FA was detected in the liver, and the liver tissue had the highest percentage of PUFA and SFA among the examined tissues. The ratio of n6/n3 in the liver of Edible dormice was 0.85/1.35. The highest percentage of MUFA was detected in SAT. A significantly higher percentage of C18:3n-3 and ratio of n6/n3 was found in the liver and SAT in the male than in the female dormice (p < 0.05). We did not find a significant difference in the kidney fatty acid profile between the male and female dormice. In the kidneys, the percentage of the arachidonic acid (AA) was 2.5 times higher than in the liver and SAT. The fatty acid composition in all three tissues is very similar between males and females, and the n6/n3 ratio is optimal in the liver. The higher percentage of AA in the kidneys could be due to prostaglandins synthesised from AA that influence filtration and reabsorption in the kidneys.

Masnokiselinski sastav specifičan je za pojedinu vrstu i tkivo, no podložan je promjenama ovisno o hranidbi i metaboličkim procesima u organizmu. Masnokiselinski sastav mlijeka od iznimnog je značaja za kvalitetu mlijeka, a masne kiseline krvi izvor su otprilike polovine masnih kiselina mlijeka. Cilj ovog rada bio je utvrditi razlike u masnokiselinskom profilu seruma i mlijeka koza s obzirom na broj mladunčadi u leglu i različite faze proizvodnog ciklusa. Istraživanje je provedeno na 30 klinički zdravih koza sanske pasmine. Nakon ekstrakcije ukupnih lipida iz uzoraka seruma i mlijeka, analiza metilnih estera masnih kiselina provedena je plinskom kromatografijom (GC). U mlijeku i serumu koza dominiraju zasićene masne kiseline (SFA) s C16:0 kao najzastupljenijom zasićenom masnom kiselinom, bez obzira na broj mladunčadi i stadij laktacije. Tijekom različitih proizvodnih faza utvrđene su i razlike u zastupljenosti pojedinih masnih kiselina u serumu i mlijeku. Tijekom suhostaja je u serumu utvrđen značajno manji postotak nezasićenih masnih kiselina (UFA) u odnosu na laktacijsko razdoblje (p

anthropometry, dietary habits, glucose levels, high blood pressure, adolescents, Croatia

The aim of the study was comparison of estimated erythrocyte and leukocyte count obtained by dipstick test strip with actual numbers counted in urine sediment analysis in native urine samples of dogs. Analyses of 68 native urine samples were performed in the Clinic of internal medicine. Samples were analysed by urine dipstick and standard microscopic sediment analysis. Patients were analysed as a group, and patients with problem in urinary system (N = 25) were additionally evaluated as a group. The results of dipstick analysis regarding erythrocytes were in accordance in 75%, and for the number of leukocytes in 81%. Overestimated values of erythrocytes by the dipstick were present in 25% and leukocytes in 12% of patients. There were no underestimated values for erythrocytes, while 7% of patients had lower leukocytes values. In all patients, the sensitivity of urine dipstick test for erythrocytes was 100% and for leukocytes 94% while the specificity for erythrocytes was 72% and for leukocytes 91%. The number of erythrocytes on dipstick was in congruence in 64%, and leukocytes in 44% of patients with urinary disorders compared to sediment analysis. Overestimated values of erythrocytes on the urine dipstick were recorded in 36% and in leukocytes 28% of patients. Underestimated erythrocytes values were not observed, and an underestimated value of leukocytes was found in 28% of patients.In most patients, the results of urine dipstick test analysis were in agreement with sediment analysis. Large differences between methods were observed in leukocyte count in patients with urinary tract disease and complete urinalysis in those patients is required.

The aim of this work was to share experiences and research results related to the training of veterinary, biology and other students to use some specific methodologies of field and laboratory work. Department of veterinary biology and Department of physiology and radiobiology of Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of the University of Zagreb (FVM) are collaborating in research involving biology, health and physiological status, as well as management of large carnivores (bear, wolf and lynx) in Croatia. The entire research is done with Faculty of Veterinary Medicine (FVM) students and students from different mobility programs (Erasmus programs) where they have the opportunity to learn about large carnivore’s behaviour, biology and physiology. Regarding field work, students are learning how to recognize signs of large carnivore’s presence, how to deal with telemetry equipment, how to collect different samples by invasive and non- invasive methods and how to behave in the different habitats. Regarding laboratory work, students have the opportunity to learn how to prepare samples for the biochemistry and how to interpret the results of biochemical and haematological analyses. Furthermore, they learn how to prepare samples for the analysis of fatty acid composition by the gas chromatography method. This collaboration resulted in several (three) published papers and conference presentations (eleven) where students were involved as co-authors and gathered the experience in preparing research results for dissemination. Research results also gave rise to several student master thesis and one PhD. As for conclusion, involvement of students in research, implementation of different project activities, field and laboratory work introduce them to the scientific field, where they could make an impact for the future knowledge.

Purpose: In cells and body fluids there can be found various antioxidative compounds that protect the membrane and cytoplasmic molecules from oxidation. In physiological conditions, free radicals and antioxidant molecules are in equilibrium. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the antioxidative potential of the tissue and the concentration of reactive oxygen metabolites in the liver, kidney, heart muscle and gluteus muscle in the fat dormouse (Glis glis). Materials-Methods: The study was conducted on the tissue samples of 33 fat dormice (18 females ; and 15 males) collected during the regular hunting operations (September-October, 2017). After the defrosting, homogenization and centrifugation of the tissue samples the activity of paraoxonase 1 (PON 1), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD), biological antioxidant potential (BAP) and concentration of reactive oxygen metabolites (ROMs) was determined. Results: The highest activity of PON 1 and GPX was measured in the liver as well as the concentration of the ROM, the highest activity of SOD was found in the kidneys. The highest antioxidative potential was measured in m. gluteus. There was no statistically significant difference in the liver and kidney tissue between male and female fat dormouse. In the heart muscle and m. gluteus, the concentration of reactive oxygen metabolites (ROM) is statistically significantly higher in the males compared to females (p = 0.028, p = 0.006, respectively). The activities of PON 1, GPx, SOD and BAP did not differ significantly between males/females. Conclusion: The established values of the indicators reflect the differences in the metabolic activity of the fat dormouse tissue.

Uvod Kroz različite biološke aktivnosti masne kiseline (MK) utječu na zdravlje, reprodukciju te su važne kao rizični faktor u nastanku kardiovaskularnih i neurodegenerativnih bolesti. Esencijalne MK se moraju u organizam unijeti hranom. Važne su linolna kiselina (C18:2n-6) iz porodice n-6 (ω-6) masnih kiselina te -linolenska (C18:3n-3) iz porodice n-3 (ω-3) masnih kiselina. Sivi puh, hrvatska je autohtona divljač iz reda glodavaca, porodice puhova. Ulovljeni puhovi koriste se u prehrani, otopljena mast je tradicionalno korišteni preparat za tretiranje rana, a od krzna se izrađuju različiti predmeti. Materijali i metode Ovo istraživanje provedeno je na 33 jedinke sivog puha (18 ženki, Ž ; i 15 mužjaka, M). Uzorci potkožnog (PMT) i abdominalnog masnog tkiva (AMT) sakupljeni su tijekom sezone legalnog odstrela (rujan- listopad 2017.) Uzorci tkiva homogenizirani su, ukupni lipidi ekstrahirani te je određen masnokiselinski sastav plinskom kromatografijom. Rezultati Analiza PMT pokazala je prisutnost 12 različitih MK, dok je u AMT utvrđeno osam MK. Glavna razlika u masnokiselinskom sastavu bila je prisutnost C16:1t u uzorcima PMT, 0, 62±0, 42% u Ž i 0, 45±0, 24% u M. U PMT sivog puha dominiraju jednostrukonezasićene MK (MUFA) (60, 2±12, 4% u Ž ; 53, 5±18% u M). Zasićene MK (SFA) činile su 27, 7±9, 3% u Ž te 25, 4±6, 4% u M. Višestrukonezasićene MK (PUFA) činile su 12, 8±10, 0% u Ž te 21, 0±16, 2% u M. U AMT sivog puha dominantne su bile MUFA, 63, 8±7, 3% u Ž te 58, 7±13, 8 u M. SFA su činile 28, 5±6, 9% u Ž i 26, 0±7, 1% u M, dok su PUFA zastupljene s 7, 7±4, 9% u Ž i 10, 32±5, 73% u M. Značajno veća zastupljenost C18:3n-3 utvrđena je u M u usporedbi sa Ž u oba masna tkiva (2, 3±1, 5% vs. 1, 0±0, 5%, PMT ; 2, 4±2, 4% vs. 0, 9±0, 4%, AMT). U AMT utvrđen je značajno veći postotak PUFA u M u odnosu na Ž (11, 3±6, 6% vs. 7, 7±5, 0%). Masnokiselinski sastav dvaju masnih tkiva nije se statistički značajno razlikovao. Zaključak Prisutnost esencijalne MK, C18:3n-3 u oba analizirana tkiva važan je nalaz zbog činjenice da je sivi puh u Hrvatskoj divljač koja se tradicionalno konzumira. No prisutnost C16:1t u PMT mogla bi biti od zdravstvenog značaja budući da je utvrđena povezanost prisutnosti trans MK s nastankom rizika od kardiovaskualarnih bolesti.