vol.10. N 1. 2025

ABSENCE OF HEPATITIS E VIRUS CIRCULATION AMONG EUROPEAN BROWN HARE DURING 2015 IN TWO BULGARIAN DISTRICT

Georgi Stoimenov , Simona Tchakarova , Elitsa Golkocheva-Markova 

ABSTRACT

The aim of this study was to assess the presence of zoonotic hepatitis E virus genotype 3 (HEV-3) in 43 liver samples from European Brown Hares in two administrative regions of Bulgaria (Plovdiv and Burgas) in 2015. Nested and Real time RT-PCR were used for HEV nucleic acid detection. In addition, liver transudate was tested for the presence of anti-HEV class IgG antibodies by ELISA (ID Screen® Hepatitis E Indirect Multi-species, IDVet, Grabels, France) following the manufacturer’s protocol. No positive samples for the presence of nucleic acid were proven in the current research by nested and Real time RT-PCR. Anti-HEV antibodies were also not detected. Further studies need to be conducted to assess the presence of the virus in the European Brown Hare population in Bulgaria in order to establish the role of this host in the epidemiology of the disease in humans as well.

Key words: Hepatitis E virus, wildlife, PCR, ELISA, Bulgaria

TMVM, 2025, vol.10, No 1(18): 3–10

STATUS AND CONSERVATION MEASURES OF BROWN BEARS (URSUS ARCTOS L.) EASTERN BALKAN POPULATION

Stefan S. Hristov, Anna P. Peneva, Laska M. Angelova 

ABSTRACT

The brown bear (Ursus arctos L.) is a part of the genetically unique population of the species on the Balkan Peninsula and has key importance for the balance of local ecosystems, which makes the theme about the management of the species exceptionally important. Using overview analysis and meta-analysis to compare data from the public sources and official species monitoring, this work has goal to determine the effectiveness of the measures applied for the protection of the species and to contribute valuable and useful information about the following steps in the management of the brown bear. Accentuation is placed on the Eastern Balkan population, represented in Bulgaria, Greece, and Serbia. Bulgaria is one of the Balkan countries with the strict-est and long-term ambitious policy on brown bear management. Despite that, in the last 25 years, there have been no records of a sustained increase in population in the country. Disturbance, poaching, conflicts with humans, segmentation, prejudices, and insufficient awareness, depopulation of populated places, cause a chaotic decrease in the numbers of specimens and are the reason for the appearance of so-called “problem bears”. The phenomenon of disturbance of the natural hibernation of female bears by climate change is difficult to control and may be the potential main reason for the extinction of the species in the future, caused by the gradual aging of the population. Future complex measures at the supranational level and permanent campaigns to promote the problems and the ecological significance of brown bears are indicated as recommended.

Key words: Ursus arctos, brown bear, species management, Balkan ecosystems.

TMVM, 2025, vol.10, No 1(18): 11–25

PATHOHISTOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF SPONTANEOUS MAMMARY TUMORS IN THE BITCH IN BULGARIA

Ivelina Grozeva 

ABSTRACT

The pathohistological characteristics of 264 spontaneous mammary tumors in the bitch were examined and analyzed at the Department of General and Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Trakia University – Stara Zagora. The neoplastic formations were fixed in a 10% solution of neutral buffered formalin and processed according to the classical histological technique. We classified the tumors according to the histological classification for canine mammary tumors published by Goldschmidt et al. (2011). 5 types of benign and 11 types of malignant tumors were diagnosed. Mixed mammary gland tumors (14.39%) and fi-broadenomas (8.71%) predominated among the benign ones, and tubulopapillary carcinoma (22.73%) and solid carcinoma (11.74%) prevailed among the malignant ones. Based on the conducted research, we can con-clude that mammary gland tumors are an important problem in the pathology of dogs. We believe that tracking their pathohistological characteristics will contribute to modern diagnostics and therapy.

Key words: mammary gland tumors in the bitch, pathohistological studies.

TMVM, 2025, vol.10, No 1(18): 26–37

EVALUATING FELINE SERUM AMYLOID A AS A DIAGNOSTIC AND PROGNOSTIC MARKER IN FOUR CASES OF FELINE INFECTIOUS PERITONITIS

Nikol Nikova 

ABSTRACT

The paper describes four clinical cases of feline infectious peritonitis (FIP), highlighting the diagnostic utility of feline serum amyloid A (fSAA) in navigating the complexities of FIP diagnosis. The findings under-score the value of fSAA as a biomarker, not only in establishing a more reliable diagnosis but also in facilitating ongoing case monitoring and providing prognostic insights.

Key words: feline, serum, amyloid A, infectious, peritonitis.

TMVM, 2025, vol.10, No 1(18): 38–43

HEAVY METALS LEVELS IN WATER AND FAECAL SAMPLES OF WILD ANIMAL SPECIES AT THE UNIVERSITY OF IBADAN ZOOLOGICAL GARDEN

A. T. Adetuga , A. O. Omonona , R. L. Qadir , H. F. Adigun , S. A. Adesanya 

ABSTRACT

Urban wildlife including those in zoological gardens may be at risk of heavy metal exposure eliciting from anthropogenic sources. Determining heavy metal levels especially through non-invasive techniques is important in comprehending their ecological effects. The goal of this study was to evaluate heavy metals levels in water and faecal samples collected from enclosures of wild animals [carnivores (n=16), herbivores (n=10) and omnivores (n=11)] at the University of Ibadan zoological garden as a biomarker of exposure. Samples collected were subjected to heavy metals determination using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer sequel to wet acid digestion. Statistical significant difference was only observed in the concentrations of Zinc (P=0.009) in the faecal samples across the animal groups. Results from the study confirmed exposure to heavy metals by the studied animal species. Also, the heavy metals above permissible limits can cause acute and chronic toxicities in the wild animals and may threaten their long-term health.

TMVM, 2025, vol.10, No 1(18): 44–53

THE PATCH CLAMP METHOD CONFIGURATIONS AND PROTOCOLS FOR ASSESSING NEURONAL EXCITABILITY

Anton Caro

ABSTRACT

Electrophysiology serves as an indispensable instrument in the investigation of the physiological and pathological characteristics of electrically active cells and their interconnected networks. The patch clamp method exhibits remarkable flexibility and can be employed in numerous configurations to examine a spectrum of properties.

However, adequate protocols are essential for precise measurements, ensuring the accuracy and reproducibility of experiments. The diversity of cell types requires tailored approaches, adding complexity and highlighting the need for robust protocols to enrich our understanding of neural functions. The protocols proposed by the author represent a thoughtful contribution to the study of CA1 hippocampal neurons. They are designed to align with the physiological characteristics of these neurons, allowing sufficient time for cellular recovery following each electrical stimulus, avoiding artifacts caused by cellular fatigue. The protocols take into consideration the properties of the voltage-gated channels expressed, proving to be suitable for the study of neuronal excitability.

Key words: electrophysiology, excitability, patch clamp, input resistance, action potential.

TMVM, 2025, vol.10, No 1(18): 54–61

ANTIMICROBIAL SUSCEPTIBILITY OF BACTERIA ISOLATED FROM EQUINE URINE

Mariyana Nikolova , Sasho Sabev 

ABSTRACT

The aim of the present study was to perform a microbiological examination of urine from horses, to isolate and identify bacterial agents and to determine their susceptibility to antimicrobial agents. Samples were taken from 29 horses. Bacterial microflora was isolated from 14 samples. By conventional laboratory methods, 14 strains were identified, of which 7 strains (50%) Pseudomonas spp., 5 strains (35.7%) Klebsiella spp. and 2 strains (14.3%) Streptococcus spp. Gram-negative bacteria showed preserved sensitivity to gentamicin, ceftazidime and fluorinated quinolones and resistance to tetracycline and the combination of trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, while streptococci showed sensitivity to amoxicillin, augmentin (amoxicillin/clavulanic acid) and ceftazidime and variable resistance to gentamicin, tetracycline and the combination of trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole. This is the first study in Bulgaria on the susceptibility to antimicrobial agents of bacterial agents isolated from horse urine. Such studies would be of great importance, both from a scientific and research point of view and of immense practical importance.

Key words: horses, urine, bacteria, antibiotic resistance.

TMVM, 2025, vol.10, No 1(18): 62–69

PATHOMORPHOLOGICAL STUDIES IN CLINICAL CASES OF CRYPTOSPORIDIUM AND EIMERIA ENTERITIS IN LAMBS

Ismet Kalkanov 

ABSTRACT

Gastroenteritis in newborn and adolescent lambs and goat kids is a complex multifactorial disease. Its manifestation is related to the immune status of the animals on the farm, the feeding conditions, as well as the presence of infectious agents (bacterial, viral and parasitic) in the environment. The main goal of the conducted field and laboratory studies was to identify the main protozoan agents causing neonatal diarrhea in newborn and adolescent lambs in sheep farms on the territory of Bulgaria. As well as analyzing the pathoanatomical and histopathological changes in the different segments of the intestinal tract. The study included 1100 new-born and adolescent lambs from 7 private dairy sheep farms aged from 24 h postnatal to day 30. For rapid antigen diagnostics were used Rainbow calf scour 5 BIO K 306 Detection of Rota, Corona, E. coli F5, Crypto and Clostridium perf. in bovine stool (BIOX Diagnostics, Belgium), as well as coprological studies. Pathoanatomical and histopathological examinations were performed on tissue samples obtained from 56 lamb carcasses that died after developing gastrointestinal infections. Based on the obtained results, the main entero-pathogens causing enteritis in lambs were defined as: Cryptosporidium parvum, Eimeria spp., rotaviruses, coronaviruses and Escherichia coli.

Key words: cryptosporidiosis, eimeriosis, lambs, pathomorphology, enteritis

TMVM, 2025, vol.10, No 1(18): 70–77

BIOCHEMICAL AND PHYSIOLOGICAL RESPONSES IN DAIRY COWS AFTER TRANSRECTAL EXAMINATION

Tsveta Georgieva , Kalin Hristov , Nikol Nikova , Silvi Vladova, Georgi Bogdanov

ABSTRACT

The evaluation of physiological stress indicators provides valuable insights into the stress responses of dairy cows subjected to routine handling procedures such as transrectal examination. This study investigated changes in cortisol levels, heart rate, and rectal temperature in dairy cows with different behavioral profiles following transrectal examination. All measured indicators showed significant increases after the procedure, except the temperature, indicating a clear physiological stress response. The average cortisol level is 2.30±0.26 U/ml, and after the rectal examination it is 2.45±0.34 U/ml. The level of white blood cells increases by 0.7%, the levels of ALAT increase by 7.33 U/ml, the levels of ASAT by 15.67 U/ml, the levels of glucose increase by 0.63 U/ml. From the physical indicators – the systole increases by 12.5 mm/Hg, the diastole – 3.33 mm/Hg, the pulse increases by an average of 10.84 beats/min. The average temperature before the rectal examination is 37.7°C, after the rectal examination it drops to 36.93°C. The results can contribute to refining handling practices to improve animal welfare.

Key words: transrectal examination, cows, stress responses

TMVM, 2025, vol.10, No 1(18): 78–84

APPLICATION OF COLOUR DOPPLER ULTRASONOGRAPHY FOR OVARIAN BLOOD FLOW EXAMINATION IN COWS – A REVIEW

Svetoslav Postolov , Ivan Fasulkov 

ABSTRACT

The purpose of this review article is to summarize the data concerning the application of colour Doppler ultrasonography for examination of the ovaries in cows. The main indication for performing a Doppler ultrasound of the ovaries is to determine the changes in the ovarian blood flow during the follicular and luteal phases of the estrus cycle. The available literature shows that measurement of follicular blood flow is suitable for identifying the future dominant follicle at an early stage of development and for predicting the viability of the follicles after deviation. Additionally, examining the number of follicles with detectable blood flow was applied to predict the superovulatory response. In this regard, measurement of follicular blood flow by color Doppler ultrasonography has used to detect follicular development and to predict the correct time of ovulation. Colour Doppler ultrasonography is used to differentiate follicular and luteal cysts, which has crucial im-portance in choosing appropriate treatment. The better sensitivity of this diagnostic method (92.3%) than B-mode ultrasonography (61.5%) in determination of the follicular luteinization degree, shows that blood flow intensity is more accurate indicator for detection of active luteal tissue compared to wall thickness measurement.

During the entire estrus cycle, there is higher positive correlation between luteal blood flow (LBF) and the progesterone level than between corpus luteum cross-sectional area (corpus luteum size) and progesterone (P4). Because of this fact, LBF increase can be used to establish early luteal function. On the base of close relationship between LBF and P4 values during the early and late luteal phases, it is accepted that LBF determination may distinguish developing (functional) and regressing (nonfunctional) corpora lutea with the same size. In conclusion, the current literature analysis indicates that transrectal colour Doppler ultrasonography is useful technique for examination of the reproductive organs blood flow and opens a new window for ovarian function investigation in cows.

Key words: Colour Doppler, ultrasonography, ovarian blood flow, cows.

TMVM, 2025, vol.10, No 1(18): 85–95

APPLICATION OF ACELLULAR GRAFTS FOR EXTENSIVE SKIN DEFECTS – A REVIEW

Lilia Petrova , Nadia Zlateva-Panayotova 

ABSTRACT

Skin healing in extensive skin defects includes stages of granulation and epithelialization, which are the main processes in wound healing in a secondary way. Epithelialization is possible only when the wound cavity is filled with granulation tissue to the level of the skin edges. The source of epithelial cells is the preserved epithelial structures from the skin edges themselves and the hair follicles.

In wounds with a large surface due to a severe inflammatory reaction, burns or in wounds with tissue avulsion, epithelialization processes are complicated due to damage to the structures that are a source of epithelial elements. Wound healing is difficult and takes a long period of time, which causes secondary complications. The acceleration of this process can be directed by using an auto- allo and xenograft to shorten the healing period. Xenografts must meet several conditions such as biocompatibility, efficiency, accessibility, ease of application and low cost. In recent years, acellular grafts from the skin of certain fish species – tilapia and salmon – have been increasingly used.

In conclusion, acellular fish skin grafts are making promising advances, offering a natural, biocompatible and cost-effective solution to promote wound healing and tissue repair.

Key words: wounds, acellular fish skin grafts, fish, epithelialization.

TMVM, 2025, vol.10, No 1(18): 96–111

OTITIS EXTERNA IN DOGS – A REVIEW

Mina Samsieva, Konstantina Ivanova, Teodora P. Popova 

ABSTRACT

Ear infections are one of the most common infections in dogs nowadays. Since in practice the isolation of a certain microorganism is tied to additional labor and equipment, the specific therapy necessary for the concrete causative agent is not always prescribed. Long-term treatment with inappropriate medications can lead to the development of antibiotic multi-resistance of the infectious agents. The purpose of our research was to summarize the latest information provided by various sources and present it in an accessible and easily understandable version. The following most frequently isolated pathogens are considered in the article: Malassezia pachydermatis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus pseudintermedius, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella spp., Finegoldia magna, Proteus spp. and other. Their resistance to different types of antibiotics and which are the most effective among them is shown. The clinical signs and some studies related to hereditary breed predisposition to otitis are also indicated.

Key words: otitis, dog, antibiotic resistance.

TMVM, 2025, vol.10, No 1(18): 112–118

RETAINED FETAL MEMBRANES IN A COW – CASE REPORT

Tea Petkova, Tsveta Georgieva  

ABSTRACT

Retained placenta in cows is defined as failure to expel all or part of fetal membranes within 6–24 hours after parturition. Risk factors contributing to this include abortion, dystocia, twin delivery, stillbirth, hypocalcemia, premature delivery, placentitis and others. Retained placenta is characterized by various levels of degenerating, discolored and foul-smelling membranes protruding from the vulva. Can be conducted through manual removal or medications. The clinical case concerns a cow in the village of Tsalapitsa within the discipline of Mobile Clinic in obstetrics and gynecology. In the morning, we diagnosed retained placenta in a cow which had given birth unassisted during the night. Vaginal and rectal examinations were performed and treatment was conducted by intrauterine application of antibiotic pessaries. The cow expelled the retained placenta within three hours following the administration of the medication

Key words: cow, retained placenta, treatment.

TMVM, 2025, vol.10, No 1(18): 119–123

POSTPARTUM UTERINE PROLAPSE IN A BITCH – CASE REPORT

Miroslav Genov

ABSTRACT

A 2-year old postpartum bitch was presented to Multidisciplinary Veterinary Clinic ‘Bulgaria’, Sofia with symptoms of shock and a complete bicornuate prolapse of the uterus. Measures to correct the shock were taken, while the uterine tissue was disinfected with an isotonic solution. After the patient was hemodynamically stable, an ovariohysterectomy was performed, followed by cervicopexy. The patient’s postoperative re-covery involved temporary urinary retention due to swelling of soft tissues, which was managed with a foley catheter two days. Antibiotic, ant inflammatory treatment and pain reaction monitoring after the surgery were performed. The patient status was followed daily and full recovery was registered after a week.

Key words: bitch, postpartum uterine prolapse, treatment

TMVM, 2025, vol.10, No 1(18): 124–126