Accidental salinomycin intoxication in European fallow deer (Dama dama L.).

Salinomycin, belonging to ionophore antibiotics, has been used as a feed additive for poultry for its coccidiostatic effect. Poisoning by ionophore antibiotics has been reported in cattle and other sensitive animals due to the replacement of medicated feed and/or accidental overdoses. The aim of this paper is to report the toxicity of salinomycin for fallow deer and to describe the different levels of sensitivity of cervids to this substance. In the presented case study, a medicated feed containing ivermectin used for deworming red deer and fallow deer was accidentally contaminated with sodium salinomycinate in a concentration of 252.6 mg/kg. The contaminated feed was consumed by the animals over a period of four days. The mortality of fallow deer within 12 days was 58%. No mortality was recorded in the red deer. In the affected animals, clinical signs associated with acute and congestive heart failure were observed. The biochemical examination indicated prerenal azotaemia caused by circulatory insufficiency and ion imbalance. The histological examination revealed pronounced focal acute cardiomyopathy and massive subacute myopathy in the skeletal muscles.

River Sediments Downstream of Villages in a Karstic Watershed Exhibited Increased Numbers and Higher Diversity of Nontuberculous Mycobacteria.

The impact of residential villages on the nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) in streams flowing through them has not been studied in detail. Water and sediments of streams are highly susceptible to anthropogenic inputs such as surface water flows. This study investigated the impact of seven residential villages in a karst watershed on the prevalence and species spectrum of NTM in water and sediments. Higher NTM species diversity (i.e., 19 out of 28 detected) was recorded downstream of the villages and wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) compared to sampling sites upstream (i.e., 5). Significantly, higher Zn and lower silicon concentrations were detected in sediments inside the village and downstream of the WWTP's effluents. Higher phosphorus concentration in sediment was downstream of WWTPs compared to other sampling sites. The effluent from the WWTPs had a substantial impact on water quality parameters with significant increases in total phosphorus, anions (Cl-and N-NH3-), and cations (Na+ and K+). The results provide insights into NTM numbers and species diversity distribution in a karst watershed and the impact of urban areas. Although in this report the focus is on the NTM, it is likely that other water and sediment microbes will be influenced as well.

Sodium chloride treatment effects on rainbow trout suffering from proliferative kidney disease caused by Tetracapsuloides bryosalmonae.

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of a long-term sodium chloride bath on rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss naturally infected by Tetracapsuloides bryosalmonae. A total of 106 infected fish were divided into 2 groups. One group was left untreated and the other was treated with sodium chloride in increasing doses up a concentration of 0.8%. After 14 d, treatment was stopped and for a further 7 d the fish response to the sodium chloride bath was observed. Cumulative mortality was significantly lower in the treated group (19.2%) compared to the untreated group (31.5%) after 21 d. This corresponded to the lower but non-significant parasite intensity in kidney and spleen in the treated group after 14 d of treatment. However, lower prevalence of parasites in both tissues was recorded in the untreated group after 21 d of treatment, but a significant difference was observed only in spleen tissue. Furthermore, significant increases in leukocytes, hemoglobin, haematocrit, ferric reducing ability of plasma, and ceruloplasmin, and significant decreases in alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase and lactate dehydrogenase activities were noticed in the treated group compared to the untreated group. In contrast, significant decreases in lysozyme concentration in the mucus and phagocyte oxidative burst in the blood were observed in the treated group. Histopathological examination revealed proliferative and reparative changes in parenchymatous tissues in the treated group. The 14- and 21-d salt bath used in rainbow trout with proliferative kidney disease was associated with a reduction in mortality and enhanced the reparative phase in the treated group.

Effect of T-2 toxin-contaminated diet on common carp (Cyprinus carpio L.).

The T-2 toxin, a fungal metabolite produced by Fusarium molds, occurs in a range of agriculture products. Reduced availability of fish meal has led to increasing use of cereals as a source of protein in commercial aquaculture feeds, which has increased the potential for mycotoxin contamination. The purpose of this study was to investigate toxicity of T-2 toxin intake in common carp (Cyprinus carpio L.) using haematological, biochemical and immunological parameters and oxidative stress indices. In a four-week feeding trial, fish were fed a commercial diet with 5.3 mg/kg T-2 toxin added. Ingestion of contaminated diet did not lead to mortality of fish, probably due to lower feed intake. On the other hand, it significantly affected haematological variables such as haematocrit, haemoglobin, red blood cell counts leading to anemia and white blood cell counts leading to leukopenia due to lymphopenia. Plasma glucose concentration and alanine amino transferase activity showed a significant increase while triglycerides concentration decreased. Activity of ceruloplasmin was significantly decreased in plasma. Further, liver glutathione S-transferase activity was significantly increased and catalase activity decreased, in parallel with a significant increase in caudal kidney catalase activity and a decrease in glutathione peroxidase activity. Finally, lipid peroxidation (detected as malondialdehyde) was significantly increased in the liver and caudal kidney. Changes in non-specific immune response and cytokine levels in head kidney indicated immune system sensitivity to T-2 toxin. Overall, the results demonstrate that this feed-borne mycotoxin is able to induce anaemia and oxidative stress and cause changes in the immune response of common carp.

Effects of therapeutic formalin bath on selected indices in fish.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study is to assess the effects of a treatment bath in a formalin solution on fish, focusing on haematological, biochemical and histopathological profiles. METHODS: A total of 96 common carps (Cyprinus carpio) were randomly assigned to eight groups. Four experimental groups were placed in the test solution for 60 minutes. The concentration of the formalin bath was 0.17 ml/l (38% formaldehyde), with the water temperature of 20°C. The effects of the bath were monitored immediately (E0) and 24 hours (E24h), 48 hours (E48h) and 10 days (E10d) after the bath. There was a control group (C0, C24h, C48h, C10d) for each of the experimental groups. RESULTS: Histopathological indices were strongly affected. Extensive changes were found on gill and skin immediately and also after 24 h, 48 h and 10 d of the formalin treatment bath. A plurality of mucinous elements was observed on the skin. Moreover, structural devastation of lamellas and numerous mucinous cells were observed on the gill. Changes were also found in haematological and biochemical indices. CONCLUSIONS: It can be concluded that after applying the treatment bath in the formalin solution, the monitored profiles were affected immediately after the bath and also after 10 days (histopathological changes of skin and gill). Such significant impact of therapeutic formalin bath should be considered in treatment of fish.

Simultaneous determination of ten anticoagulant rodenticides in tissues by column-switching UHPLC-ESI-MS/MS.

This paper describes the development of a method for the simultaneous determination of ten anticoagulant rodenticides (coumafuryl, warfarin, pindone, coumatetralyl, coumachlor, difenacoum, bromadiolone, brodifacoum, chlorophacinone and flocoumafen) in the liver and kidney based on column-switching liquid chromatography coupled with heated electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry. The simple sample preparation includes extraction with methanol. A C18 trapping column was used for online solid-phase extraction before analytical separation with the mobile phase comprising a mixture of 0.1% formic acid in water, methanol and acetonitrile. Chromatographic separation was achieved using a Thermo Hypersil ultra high-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) C18 column with the mobile phase consisting of 5 mM ammonium formate buffer (pH = 9) and methanol. The column-switching procedure ensured no matrix effects during electrospray ionization (ESI). Extraction recoveries ranged between 91 and 100% for liver and between 89 and 97% for kidney. The method showed good linearity up to 750 ng g(-1). The limit of detection ranged between 0.001 and 0.022 ng g(-1) for liver and between 0.001 and 0.028 ng g(-1) for kidney. The developed method was successfully used in several animal poisoning cases.

Preparation of feed premix for veterinary purposes.

This experimental study describes the preparation of a veterinary medicated premix containing tetracycline hydrochloride for oral administration to aquatic animals. For the manufacture of the premix, commercially produced animal feed is used, which is intended for consumption in the form of pellets that were coated with a mixture of chlortetracycline hydrochloride and other excipients. Feed pellets were combined with a mixture of an active substance and excipients with a large specific surface (colloidal silica - Aerosil® 200) allowing an easy adhesion to the surface of the pellets, and a solid polymer with a low glass transition point (Eudragit® E) which ensures the formation of a hard coat. A mixture of these substances has been applied to the surface of the pellets either A) in the solid state simply by dry adhesion; B) by coating the pellets with the mixture and additional impregnation with ethanol; or C) the polymer was subsequently applied in solution. In the final stage, the pellets were heated in order to achieve the glass transition point of the polymer to create a solid and mechanically resistant coating. Coated pellets prepared by three methods described above are almost identical in their physical properties. With this technology it is possible to produce a feed mixture with a very low content of the active substance in situ without the need for a complex technological equipment.

Long-term dietary exposure to the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs diclofenac and ibuprofen can affect the physiology of common carp (Cyprinus carpio) on multiple levels, even at "environmentally relevant" concentrations.

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effects of emerging environmental contaminants, the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) diclofenac (DCF) and ibuprofen (IBP), on physiological functions in juvenile common carp (Cyprinus carpio). Fish were exposed for 6 weeks, and for the first time, NSAIDs were administered through diet. Either substance was tested at two concentrations, 20 or 2000 µg/kg, resulting in four different treatments (DCF 20, DCF 2000, IBP 20, IBP 2000). The effects on haematological and biochemical profiles, the biomarkers of oxidative stress, and endocrine disruption were studied, and changes in RNA transcription were also monitored to obtain a comprehensive picture of toxicity. Fish exposure to high concentrations of NSAIDs (DCF 2000, IBP 2000) elicited numerous statistically significant changes (p < 0.05) in the endpoints investigated, with DCF being almost always more efficient than IBP. Compared to control fish, a decrease in total leukocyte count attributed to relative lymphopenia was observed. Plasma concentrations of total proteins, ammonia, and thyroxine, and enzyme activities of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were significantly elevated in either group, as were the activities of certain hepatic antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, glutathione-S-transferase) in the DCF 2000 group. The transcriptomic profile of selected genes in the tissues of exposed fish was affected as well. Significant changes in plasma total proteins, ammonia, ALT, and ALP, as well as in the transcription of genes related to thyroid function and the antioxidant defense of the organism, were found even in fish exposed to the lower DCF concentration (DCF 20). As it was chosen to match DCF concentrations commonly detected in aquatic invertebrates (i.e., the potential feed source of fish), it can be considered "environmentally relevant". Future research is necessary to shed more light on the dietary NSAID toxicity to fish.

The effect of oyster mushroom ß-1.3/1.6-D-glucan and oxytetracycline antibiotic on biometrical, haematological, biochemical, and immunological indices, and histopathological changes in common carp (Cyprinus carpio L.).

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of micronized ß-1.3/1.6-D-glucan (BG) derived from the oyster mushroom Pleurotus ostreatus Hiratake and tetracycline antibiotic oxytetracycline (OTC) on biometrical, haematological, biochemical, and immunological indices, and histopathological changes in tissues of one- to two-year-old common carp (Cyprinus carpio L.). The fish tested were divided into five experimental groups and one control. Carp in the control group were fed commercial carp feed pellets. Fish in the five experimental groups were fed the same pellets supplemented with either OTC, a combination of OTC and BG, or BG as follows: 75 mg oxytetracycline kg(-1) bw (OTC group), 75 mg oxytetracycline kg(-1) bw and 0.5% ß-glucan (OTC + 0.5% BG group), 75 mg oxytetracycline kg(-1) bw and 2.0% ß-glucan (OTC + 2.0% BG group), 0.5% ß-glucan (0.5% BG group), and 2.0% ß-glucan (2.0% BG group). OTC- and BG-supplemented diets and the control diet were administered to experimental and control carp for 50 days (i.e. samplings 1-3, the exposure period); for the following 14 days, fish were fed only control feed pellets with no OTC or BG supplementation (i.e. sampling 4, the recovery period). Blood and tissue samples were collected both during, and at the end of the study. No significant changes in biometrical indices (i.e. total length, standard length, total weight, hepatosomatic and spleen somatic index, and Fulton's condition factor) were found in experimental carp compared to control in any sampling. In haematological indices, significant changes were found only in sampling 2, in which shifts in PCV (P < 0.01), Hb (P < 0.01), and WBC (P < 0.01), and in the counts of lymphocytes (P < 0.01), monocytes (P < 0.01), and neutrophil granulocytes-segments (P < 0.05) were revealed. As for biochemical profiling, plasma concentrations of glucose, albumins, cholesterol, natrium, and chlorides (all P < 0.01), and total proteins, lactate, phosphorus, and potassium (all P < 0.05) as well as the catalytic activity of ALP (P < 0.05) were altered in common carp. A significant change in induced (opsonizedzymosan particles, OZP) chemiluminescence (P < 0.05) in sampling 3 and no shifts in serum immunoglobulins concentration were found in the immunological analysis. Histopathological examination of skin, gills, liver, spleen, and cranial and caudal kidneys revealed no obvious specific changes in any tissue analysed. The use of ß-glucans in clinically healthy aquaculture remains an issue. Nevertheless, their use in breeding endangered by stress stimuli, infectious disease, or adverse environmental factors is defensible.

The effects of mycotoxin deoxynivalenol (DON) on haematological and biochemical parameters and selected parameters of oxidative stress in piglets.

OBJECTIVES: Deoxynivalenol (DON) - trichothecene mycotoxin, is frequently detected in high concentrations in cereals in the temperate region of Europe. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of DON in feed on haematological and biochemical parameters and on oxidative stress in piglets. METHODS: Two concentrations of DON in feedstuff for pigs were chosen: 0.6 mg/kg (group C) and 2.0 mg/kg (group M). Twelve weaned pigs were used in each group. Pigs were fed with naturally contaminated feed for 4 weeks. On days 14, 21 and at the end of the experiment (day 28) samples of blood were taken to determine haematological parameters, plasma biochemical parameters, ceruloplasmin activity and FRAP (ferric reducing ability of plasma). RESULTS: The haematological variables did not show changes in response to contaminated diet with exception of the mean corpuscular volume, which was significantly decreased at the end of the experiment in the group M. A significant increase of alkaline phosphatase activity (140%, p<0.01) was found in the group M compared to the group C at the end of the experiment. A significant decrease was found on the day 21 in FRAP (85%, p<0.001) and on the day 28 in ceruloplasmin (75%, p<0.01) in the group M compared to the group C. CONCLUSIONS: The decrease of FRAP and ceruloplasmin indicate a lowered ability of organism to scavenge reactive oxygen species. The higher concentration of DON in feedstuffs had a negative influence on the antioxidant ability of piglet's plasma.

Effect of ß-1.3/1.6-D-glucan derived from oyster mushroom Pleurotus ostreatus on biometrical, haematological, biochemical, and immunological indices in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss).

OBJECTIVES: Effect of long-term oral administration of three different concentrations (0.5, 1.0, and 2.0%) of micronized ß-1.3/1.6-D-glucan derived from oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus, Hiratake) on biometrical, haematological, biochemical, and immunological indices of half-year-old rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) was assessed in the study. DESIGN: Rainbow trout were feed commercial feed pellets containing ß-1.3/1.6-D-glucan in the concentrations of 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0% for 85 days. Biometrical indices consisted in total and standard length, body and liver weight, from which derived somatic parameters such as Fulton´s condition factor and hepatosomatic index were calculated. Haematological parameters were evaluated according to unified methods for haematological examination in fish. Plasma biochemical profile was analysed using biochemical analyser Konelab 20i and Easy Lyte Analyzer. A phagocyte cells metabolic activity (induced chemiluminescence of phagocytes) was determined as an immunological parameter by a microplate luminometric method on Immunotech LM-01T. RESULTS: No clinical signs of behavioral, respiratory, or neurologic distress were observed in rainbow trout. Fish showed normal feeding behavior. As for biometric parameters, no significant changes in total and standard length, body weight, liver weight, as well as in condition factor and hepatosomatic index of experimental and control fish were found. In the course of the study, weight gains in rainbow trout were similar and continuous. Shifts in PCV (p<0.05), haemoglobin (p<0.05), and MCHC (p<0.01) were found within haematological indices. Plasma concentration of glucose, lactate, total protein, cholesterol, calcium, natrium, potassium (all p<0.05), albumins and chlorides (both p<0.01), as well as catalytic activities of ALT and AST (both p<0.05) were changed in the course of the study. A phagocyte cells metabolic activity (luminol-induced chemiluminescence) in rainbow trout was not altered by oyster mushroom ß-1.3/1.6-D-glucan administration. CONCLUSION: After long-term oral administration of three concentrations of micronized ß-1.3/1.6-D-glucan derived from oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus, Hiratake) shifts in haematological and biochemical profiling were found in half-year-old rainbow trout (O. mykiss) in environmental conditions of a commercial rainbow trout fishery. Biometrical indices were not found significantly altered. No specific effect of ß-glucan on immune system response of rainbow trout was found in the study. The use of ß-glucan in prosperous, clinically healthy aquaculture is still an issue, nevertheless, its use in breedings endangered by stress stimuli, infectious diseases or adverse environmental factors is indisputable.

The effects of Click 500 SC (terbuthylazine) on common carp Cyprinus carpio under (sub)chronic conditions.

OBJECTIVES: Effects of the herbicide formulation Click 500 SC (terbuthylazine 500 g/l) on common carp Cyprinus carpio were assessed through biometric, biochemical, haematological and antioxidant indices, induction of xenobiotic metabolizing enzymes and histological examination of selected tissues. DESIGN: The fish were exposed to the formulation with terbuthylazine concentrations of 380 ng/l (environmental concentration); 60 µg/l and 550 µg/l for up to 91 days. Haematological indices were assessed using unified methods of haematological examination in fish. Biochemical indices in plasma were measured by biochemical analyzer, ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP) and ceruloplasmin activity were determined spectrophotometrically. Concentration of total cytochrome P450, glutathione-S-transferase activity and glutathione content were assessed spectrophotometrically in liver. Activity of liver ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase (EROD) activity was measured spectrofluorimetrically. Histopathological examination of liver, skin, gills, spleen, cranial and caudal kidney was performed by light microscopy. RESULTS: An increase (p<0.05) was observed in hepatosomatic index and condition factor in fish from the environmental concentration. A decrease (p<0.05) in haemoglobin and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC) was found in fish treated with terbuthylazine of 550 µg/l. There was a decline in mean corpuscular volume (MCV) and mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH) (p<0.05) in terbuthylazine of 60 µg/l and 550 µg/l. Triglycerides (TAG) (p<0.01) were elevated in all pesticide-treated groups. Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) (p<0.01) and phosphorus (p<0.05) decreased in fish exposed to terbuthylazine of 60 µg/l and 550 µg/l, while albumin (p<0.01) rised in the same groups. An elevation in natrium (p<0.05) in terbuthylazine of 550 µg/l and a rise in protein (p<0.01) in the concentrations of 380 ng/l and 550 µg/l were observed. Correlations between several indices were significant. Ceruloplasmin activity and FRAP were augmented (p<0.01) in the highest concentration tested. Examined xenobiotic detoxification systems were not significantly affected by the exposure. Non-specific histopathological changes were found in the gills and skin of the test fish. CONCLUSION: The fish treated with terbuthylazine developed a disorder in several haematological and plasma biochemical indices. The levels of markers of oxidative stress increased in response to the exposure. Examined systems involved in detoxification of xenobiotics did not reflect long-term contact with the herbicide. Detected histological lesions were non-specific. The environmental concentration of terbuthylazin affected biometric indices of the test fish.

Comparison of diazinon toxicity to embryos of Xenopus laevis and Danio rerio; degradation of diazinon in water.

The aim of this study was to determine the toxic effect of diazinon (organophosphate insecticide) to embryos of Xenopus laevis and Danio rerio. The 96-h LC50 values showed higher toxicity of diazinon for X. leavis in standard solution (9.84 mg/L) compared to the pond water (12.64 mg/L). Teratogenic index for diazinon was 1.3 and 1.6, respectively. The 96-h LC50 diazinon values demonstrated similar sensitivity of embryos D. rerio (8.21-9.34 mg/L) and X. laevis in standard test solutions. Our results reflect that direct application of diazinon into the water can be associated with significant risks to aquatic organisms.

Recovery of Mycobacteria from Heavily Contaminated Environmental Matrices.

For epidemiology studies, a decontamination method using a solution containing 4.0% NaOH and 0.5% tetradecyltrimethylammonium bromide (TDAB) represents a relatively simple and universal procedure for processing heavily microbially contaminated matrices together with increase of mycobacteria yield and elimination of gross contamination. A contamination rate only averaging 7.3% (2.4% in Cluster S; 6.9% in Cluster R and 12.6% in Cluster E) was found in 787 examined environmental samples. Mycobacteria were cultured from 28.5% of 274 soil and water sediments samples (Cluster S), 60.2% of 251 samples of raw and processed peat and other horticultural substrates (Cluster R), and 29.4% of 262 faecal samples along with other samples of animal origin (Cluster E). A total of 38 species of slow and rapidly growing mycobacteria were isolated. M. avium ssp. hominissuis, M. fortuitum and M. malmoense were the species most often isolated. The parameters for the quantitative detection of mycobacteria by PCR can be significantly refined by treating the sample suspension before DNA isolation with PMA (propidium monoazide) solution. This effectively eliminates DNA residue from both dead mycobacterial cells and potentially interfering DNA segments present from other microbial flora. In terms of human exposure risk assessment, the potential exposure to live non-tuberculous mycobacteria can be more accurately determined.

Nontuberculous Mycobacteria Prevalence in Aerosol and Spiders' Webs in Karst Caves: Low Risk for Speleotherapy.

A total of 152 aerosol and spider web samples were collected: 96 spider's webs in karst areas in 4 European countries (Czech Republic, France, Italy, and Slovakia), specifically from the surface environment (n = 44), photic zones of caves (n = 26), and inside (aphotic zones) of caves (n = 26), 56 Particulate Matter (PM) samples from the Sloupsko-Sosuvsky Cave System (speleotherapy facility; n = 21) and from aerosol collected from the nearby city of Brno (n = 35) in the Czech Republic. Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) were isolated from 13 (13.5%) spider's webs: 5 isolates of saprophytic NTM (Mycobacterium gordonae, M. kumamotonense, M. terrae, and M. terrae complex) and 6 isolates of potentially pathogenic NTM (M. avium ssp. hominissuis, M. fortuitum, M. intracellulare, M. peregrinum and M. triplex). NTM were not isolated from PM collected from cave with the speleotherapy facility although mycobacterial DNA was detected in 8 (14.3%) samples. Temperature (8.2 °C, range 8.0-8.4 °C) and relative humidity (94.7%, range 93.6-96.6%) of air in this cave were relatively constant. The average PM2.5 and PM10 mass concentration was 5.49 µg m-3 and 11.1 µg m-3. Analysed anions (i.e., F-, Cl-, NO2-, SO42-, PO43- and NO3-) originating largely from the burning of wood and coal for residential heating in nearby villages in the surrounding area. The air in the caves with speleotherapy facilities should be monitored with respect to NTM, PM and anions to ensure a safe environment.

Nontuberculous Mycobacteria Prevalence in Bats' Guano from Caves and Attics of Buildings Studied by Culture and qPCR Examinations.

A total of 281 guano samples were collected from caves (N = 181) in eight European countries (Bulgaria, Czech Republic, France, Hungary, Italy, Romania, Slovakia and Slovenia) and attics in the Czech R. (N = 100). The correlation of detection of mycobacteria between Ziehl-Neelsen (ZN) microscopy and culture examination and qPCR was strong. ZN microscopy was positive in guano from caves (58.6%) more than double than positivity in guano from attics (21.0%; p < 0.01). From 89 mycobacterial isolates (73 isolates from cave guano and 16 isolates from attics' guano), 68 (76.4%) isolates of 19 sp., ssp. and complex were identified as members of three Groups (M. fortuitum, M.chelonae, and M. mucogenicum) and four complexes (M. avium, M. terrae, M.vaccae, and M.smegmatis). A total of 20 isolates (22.5%) belonged to risk group 1 (environmental saprophytes), 48 isolates (53.9%) belonged to risk group 2 (potential pathogens), and none of the isolates belonged to risk group 3 (obligatory pathogens). When comparing bat guano collected from caves and attics, differences (p < 0.01; Mann-Whitney test) were observed for the electrical conductivity, total carbon, total organic, and total inorganic carbon. No difference (p > 0.05; Mann-Whitney test) was found for pH and oxidation-reduction potential parameters.

Assessment of contamination of the Svitava and Svratka rivers in the Czech Republic using selected biochemical markers.

The aim of the present study is to assess aquatic ecosystem contamination using selected biochemical markers: cytochrome P450, ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase (EROD), glutathione S-transferase (GST), tripeptide glutathione, vitellogenin, and 11-ketotestosterone in chub (Leuciscus cephalus L.). Seven locations on the Svitava and Svratka rivers (in the Brno conurbation, Czech Republic) were assessed. The results were compared with the levels of the most important inductors of these biomarkers: organic pollutants hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH), hexachlorobenzene (HCB), DDT and its metabolites, polychlorinated biphenyls, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in bottom sediment, fish muscle, and semipermeable membrane devices (SPMDs) and metals in sediment. The highest levels of pollutants were observed at sites situated downstream from Brno, especially at Modrice and Rajhradice. Significant positive correlations (p < 0.05) were found between EROD activity and HCH concentration in SPMDs, and also between GST and EROD activity with HCB concentration in muscle, after adjusting for age.

Effects of subchronic exposure to Spartakus (prochloraz) on common carp Cyprinus carpio.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of the study was to investigate effects of the fungicide formulation Spartakus (prochloraz 450 g.L-1) on common carp Cyprinus carpio through biometric, biochemical, haematological and antioxidant indices, induction of xenobiotic metabolizing enzymes and histological examination of selected tissues. DESIGN: The test was performed on juvenile fish, which was exposed to Spartakus (concentrations of prochloraz: 0.05; 0.15 and 0.38 mg.L-1) for 28 days. Haematological indices were assessed using unified methods of haematological examination in fish. Plasma biochemical indices were determined by biochemical analyzer. Concentration of total cytochrome P450 (CYP), glutathione (GSH) content and glutathione-S-transferase (GST) activity were determined spectrophotometrically in hepatopancreas. Activity of liver ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase (EROD) activity was measured spectrofluorimetrically. Ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP) and ceruloplasmin activity were assessed spectrophotometrically. Histological changes in samples of hepatopancreas, skin, gills, spleen, head kidney and caudal kidney were examined by light microscopy. RESULTS: There was a significant rise in hepatosomatic index (HSI) (p<0.01), CYP and EROD (p<0.05) of fish exposed to prochloraz of 0.15 and 0.38 mg.L-1 whereas GST was induced by all concentrations tested and GSH by 0.38 mg.L-1 (p<0.05). Red blood cell count decreased significantly (p<0.05) in prochloraz of 0.05 and 0.15 mg.L-1. Plasma potassium increased (p<0.01) in all Spartakus treated groups, a decline in total protein (p<0.05), ALT, Na+ and Ca (p<0.01) was found in fish exposed to prochloraz of 0.38 mg.L-1. Ceruloplasmin activity was elevated (p<0.05) in the highest concentration tested, FRAP declined (p<0.05) in the same group. Histopathological changes in gills were demonstrated in all pesticide treated groups, with a decreased activity of skin mucous cells in prochloraz of 0.38 mg.L-1. CONCLUSION: The subchronic exposure to Spartakus influenced HSI, induced xenobitic metabolizing enzymes, initiated a disorder of selected plasma indices and a decline in red blood cell count, caused minor histological impairment, and affected antioxidant activities of the test fish.

Effects of high dietary levels of Se-enriched yeast on tissues selenium content and meat quality traits - a model study in rats.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of the trial was to evaluate effects of high dietary levels of Se-enriched yeast on selenium concentrations in muscle and liver tissue and on the meat quality traits in rats. DESIGN: The experimental feed mixtures were fed to Wistar Albino rats for a period of 10 weeks. They differed in the dose and in the form of Se supplement. Supplemental dose of 0.3 mg.kg-1 of Se per one kilogram of feed was used in group I (n = 10, sodium selenite) and in group II (n = 10, Se-enriched yeast). Elevated dose 2 mg.kg-1 Se per one kilogram of feed was used in group III (n = 10, sodium selenite) and in group IV (n = 10, Se-enriched yeast). RESULTS: The use of elevated dietary Se level (2 mg.kg-1) in the form of sodium selenite did not increase lipid oxidation (malondialdehyde content) in muscles nor influenced meat quality traits. The use of elevated dietary Se level in the form of Se-enriched yeast resulted in higher Se muscle concentrations accompanied by increased of malondialdehyde content. The meat quality traits remained unaffected. CONCLUSION: High selenium concentrations in muscle produced by Se-enriched yeast were accompanied by elevated MDA levels, but it did not negatively influence meat quality traits.

Effects of trichothecene mycotoxin T-2 toxin on haematological and immunological parameters of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss).

The aim of this study was to assess the effects of T-2 toxin-contaminated feed (at concentrations of 1.0 and 1.8 mg/kg) on the rainbow trout immune system by studying non-specific cellular and humoral immune responses and its effect on red and white blood cells. Consumption of T-2 toxin at both concentrations resulted in significantly increased erythrocyte counts and a decrease in mean corpuscular volume. While a significant decrease in mean corpuscular haemoglobin was observed at both experimental concentrations, the decrease in plasma haemoglobin was only significant at the higher T-2 toxin concentration. Higher T-2 toxin concentrations resulted in a significant increase in leukocyte and lymphocyte count, while absolute phagocyte count and counts of less mature neutrophil granulocyte forms remained unchanged at both concentrations. Non-specific humoral immunity (bactericidal activity measured as complement activation) decreased significantly in both experimental groups when compared with the control. The results of this study show that T-2 toxin in feed at a concentration range of 1.0-1.8 mg/kg influences the immunological defence mechanisms of rainbow trout.Trial registration number, MSMT-3876/2014-14; date of registration, 31/1/2014.