Evaluation of Internal and External Biosecurity Measures and Their Association with Mycoplasma gallisepticum Infection in Broiler Farms in Khartoum State, Sudan | Author : Mortada M. O. Elhassan, Lamyia M. A., Sanaa A. Enan, Adil M. A. Salman and Elniema A. Mustafa | Abstract | Full Text | Abstract :The present study was conducted to investigate the internal and external biosecurity levels and their association with Mycoplasma gallisepticum infection in broiler farms in Khartoum State, Sudan. Sixty-six broiler farms were selected. A questionnaire of 77 questions on internal and external biosecurity measures was administered during each farm visit. A total of 360 blood samples were collected and used for serological examination to detect antibodies against M. gallisepticum. The overall score of biosecurity was 0.57, and the average score of internal biosecurity (0.75) was higher (p<0.01) than the average score of external biosecurity (0.51). Poor internal biosecurity practices were observed in 23.4% of broiler farms, whereas most farms (93.6%) recorded poor external biosecurity. A significant (p<0.01) positive correlation was encountered between the external biosecurity and the number of houses (0.62), as well as the number of workers (rs= 0.54). Both internal and external biosecurity displayed significant positive correlations with the number of birds (rs= 0.64, 0.35; p< 0.05). Fifty percent of the farms were positive for M. gallisepticum. The disease incidence correlated positively with the spread of manure on neighboring farms (rs= 0.44, p<0.05). A negative correlation was observed between the presence of Mycoplasma and the distance between farms (rs= -0.50, p<0.01) as well as farm enclosure (rs= -0.44, p<0.05). It is concluded that broiler farms in Khartoum State exhibited low biosecurity measures and a high seroprevalence of M. gallisepticum infection. Further efforts are necessary to improve external biosecurity practices. |
| Gangrene of the Tongue Develops 48 Hours Following Ovariohysterectomy as a Treatment of Open-Cervix Pyometra in a Bitch | Author : Asharf M. Abu-Seida | Abstract | Full Text | Abstract :This case report describes, for the first time, a simultaneous occurrence of open-cervix pyometra and gangrene of the tongue in a ten-year-old intact female Griffon dog. The bitch had a three-week history of grayish black thin purulent vulvar discharge, severe licking of the external genitalia, polyuria, polydipsia, inappetence and lethargy. The owner acknowledged of estrous cycle since two months. Blood work revealed severe leukocytosis, neutrophilia, monocytosis and elevated level of globulins. Urinalysis revealed low specific gravity of the urine. Abdominal radiography showed fluid-filled and slightly enlarged uterus. Ultrasonography of the abdomen revealed enlarged uterus with a thickened uterine wall. The diameter, wall thickness, and luminal thickness of the uterus were 2.32 cm, 0.38 cm, and 1.94 cm, respectively. Accumulation of anechoic-hypoechoic pus inside the uterus was also noticed. The case was confirmed as open-cervix pyometra therefore, ovariohysterectomy was carried out. After 48 hours post-operative, the bitch developed dry gangrene of the tongue. The cranial fourth of tongue became cold, insensitive, dry and grayish white. Moreover, there were diminished lingual function and a clear line of demarcation between the healthy and gangrenous parts of the tongue. Partial glossectomy was carried out and tolerated by the bitch. The animal had acceptable and functional outcomes. In conclusion, transmission of infection from open-cervix pyometra to the tongue is possible, leading to dry gangrene in dogs. |
| Detection of clfA, clfB and coa genes in Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) isolated from Nasal Cavity of Cows, Buffalo and their Breeders in Nineveh Governorate, Iraq | Author : H.Y. Rahma and Dh.M. Jwher | Abstract | Full Text | Abstract :The present study aimed to isolate and identify Methicillin-Resistant DOIStaphylococcus aureus MRSA from the nasal cavity of healthy cows and buffaloes and their breeders in Nineveh Governorate and detect some virulence factors by using molecular methods. A total of 150 samples of cotton swabs were collected randomly from different areas of Nineveh governorate. The samples were cotton swabs from the nasal passages of healthy cattle, buffaloes, and their breeders (50 swabs of each type). All the samples were subjected to culture and molecular testing. The results showed the highest isolation percentage of S. aureus from cattle followed by breeders, then buffaloes, at 54%, 40%, and 32%, respectively. The total isolation percentage of MRSA was 65.1%. The highest percentage was in buffaloes, followed by breeders and cattle, at 93.75%, 70%, and 44.44%, respectively. Out of 41 isolates from cattle, buffaloes, and their breeders, the virulence genes clfA, clfB, and coa were detected in MRSA at rates of 100%, 80.49%, and 65.85%, respectively. The current study concluded that cattle and buffalo are considered carriers and potential transmitters of MRSA, which makes them risk factors for infection in humans, especially those who are in direct contact with animals. Together, these findings also highlight the need to prevent the transmission of zoonotic pathogens to humans via occupational exposure or consumption of contaminated animal products. |
| Review on Subclinical Mastitis in Dairy Camels | Author : Khaled Djeddi, Hind Houssou, Siham Rabah, Dounia Ouchtati, Amira Djeddoubenabid Miloudi Abdellatif and Tarek Khenenou | Abstract | Full Text | Abstract :Camels play a crucial role as multipurpose animals, providing milk and meat and serving as a means of transportation. They serve as a financial reserve for pastoralists and hold significant cultural and social value. Camel milk, known for its exceptional nutritional properties, is considered a valuable substitute for human milk. However, udder infections, particularly mastitis, pose significant challenges to camel farming. Mastitis, especially the subclinical form, is a persistent and prevalent condition affecting milk hygiene and quality in dairy camels. This review offers insights into the prevalence, risk factors, and bacterial pathogens associated with subclinical mastitis in camels, noting its prevalence ranging from 9.28% to 87.78%. Pathogens identified include Staphylococcus aureus, Coagulase-negative Staphylococcus, Streptococcus agalactiae, Streptococcus dysgalactiae, Escherichia coli, Micrococcus spp., Pasteurella haemolytica, and Corynebacterium spp. The study outlines key risk factors contributing to camel mastitis, emphasizing severe tick infestation, age, lactation stage, parity, body condition score, skin lesions on the teats or udders, anti-suckling devices, udder history, conformation, breed, unhygienic milking practices, and production system, amongst others, that have been reported to be important in the prevalence of subclinical mastitis. The findings underscore the importance of holistic management practices, emphasizing hygiene, health monitoring, and targeted interventions to ensure camel well-being and productivity in various agro-pastoral contexts. |
| Effects of Aqueous and Ethanolic Extracts of Ginger (Zingiber Officinale) Rhizome on Serum Progesterone Level and Markers of Oxidative Stress in African Giant Rat (Cricetomys Gambianus) in Captivity | Author : Foda F.C., Mingoas K.J.P., Chongsi M.M.M., Fonou T.L., Takam B.B.., Fonkem S., Vemo B.N. and Kenfack A. | Abstract | Full Text | Abstract :The African giant rat is a very prolific animal in its natural biotope. But in captivity, this species exhibits poor reproductive performance due to embryonic resorption. These resorptions are due to oxidative stress or a lack of progesterone production. This study was carried out to evaluate whether aqueous and ethanolic extracts of ginger, given their antioxidant and steroidogenic properties, can improve the antioxidant status and serum progesterone level during gestation in African giant rats. For this purpose, twenty-eight adult female African giant rats were divided into seven treatments comparable in terms of body weight: the control group received only avocado paste (7 g/day), while the other groups received either aqueous or ethanolic extracts at doses of 250, 500, and 750 mg/kg bw in a homogeneous mixture of paste. Animals were individually housed and had free access to food and drinking water. Eight days after the start of the test, the females were bred with males. Each female was sacrificed on the 15th day post-coitus, then the blood was collected from the jugular vein and centrifuged at 3500 rpm for 15 minutes and the serum obtained was used for the determination of progesterone and markers of oxidative stress concentrations. The results showed that except for females who had received 750 mg/kg bw of aqueous extract, the serum progesterone level was significantly (P?0.05) higher in the treated animals compared to the control. The administration of the ethanolic extract at doses of 250 and 500 mg/kg bw induced a significant (P?0.05) increase in the levels of malondialdehyde, catalase and superoxide dismutase compared to the control group. On the other hand, the administration of aqueous extract significantly (p<0.05) lowered the level of total peroxidases compared to the control. Aqueous and ethanolic extracts of ginger can be used to increase serum progesterone levels, but cannot be used to improve oxidative stress status. |
| Effect of Different Fractions of Lawsonia inermis Linn on Haematobiochemical Changes, Osmotic Fragility and Lipid Profile in Streptozotocin-induced Diabetic Wistar Rats | Author : Abdulfatai Aremu, Olayinka A. Oridupa and Norazah Bint Bashar | Abstract | Full Text | Abstract :Diabetes mellitus is a major health challenge that has harmful effects on the quality of life globally as a result of its numerous complications. This study aimed to evaluate the positive modulatory effect of Lawsonia inermis (LI) Linn on various haemobiochemical parameters and lipid profiles in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Ten groups of diabetic rats (n = 5) were orally administered 50 and 100 mg/kg of three different fractions of Lawsonia inermis: metformin (500 mg/kg) and glibenclamide (5 mg/kg), whereas untreated hyperglycaemic and normoglycaemic rats received distilled water. The results showed increased red blood cells (RBC) in treated rats compared to untreated diabetic rats. Hb, MCV, MCH, and MCHC decreased nonsignificantly, whereas WBC increased nonsignificantly. Neutrophil increased non-significantly in diabetic, untreated rats, while all the treatment groups decreased non-significantly. Lymphocytes and monocytes increased non-significantly (p > 0.05). Most treatment groups showed a non-significant (p > 0.05) increase in the platelet count. The ALT levels decreased non-significantly (p > 0.05) compared to normoglycemic rats. The AST levels decreased significantly (p<0.01). ALP decreased non-significantly in both treated and untreated groups, whereas bilirubin did not show any significant changes. Creatinine and urea levels in untreated diabetic rats increased non-significantly, while treatment groups decreased non-significantly. Lawsonia inermis-treated rats showed significant improvement in erythrocytic fragility, while glycated haemoglobin in untreated-diabetic and glibenclamide-treated rats increased significantly (p > 0.001). Triglycerides and high-density lipoprotein decreased non-significantly, while low-density lipoprotein increased non-significantly (p > 0.05) in diabetic untreated rats. All treatment groups showed a non-significant (P > 0.05) decrease in low-density lipoprotein. Lawsonia inermis showed a significant positive modulatory effect on the haemobiochemical changes, glycated Hb, osmotic fragility, and lipid profile in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. |
| Prevalence and Distribution of Cysticercus tenuicollis (Taenia hydatigena) Cysts from Slaughtered Goats at Akinyele, Ibadan, Nigeria A | Author : kinkunmi O. Idowu, Olamilekan G. Banwo and Olalekan T. Jeremiah | Abstract | Full Text | Abstract :This study aimed to determine the prevalence of Cysticercus tenuicollis among 500 Red Sokoto goats slaughtered at the Akinyele abattoir in Ibadan between October and December. This period targeted the wet month, transition from rainy to dry season, and the dry month. Post-mortem examinations were conducted on goats for C. tenuicollis. Cysts that were recovered underwent identification based on their morphology, with both their number and location documented. The study found an overall prevalence rate of 38.2%. Among the 416 males and 84 females examined, 160 (38.5%) and 31 (36.9%), respectively, were found to be infected, with no significant differences observed between the sexes. Prevalence in October was 47.1% (106/225), November was 40.5% (75/185), and December was 11.1% (10/90), with higher rates in wet months transitioning to lower rates in dry months, with a significant association between prevalence and month. Among the 281 cysts identified, they were distributed across the liver (18, 6.4%), mesentery (98, 34.9%), and omentum (165, 58.7%). Notably, C. tenuicollis was most commonly found in the omentum, accounting for 58.7% of the cases. The distribution of cysts by location and the analysis of potential risk factors for sex and age showed a significant association with age but not with sex. Although more cysts were observed in males, the difference was not statistically significant. This study provides valuable baseline data on the prevalence of C. tenuicollis in goats during the study period. The high prevalence and distribution patterns identified can serve as crucial insights for designing effective control strategies, including targeted anthelmintic treatments and improving meat inspection protocols. |
| Effect of Applying Clove and Cinnamon Essential Oils to Milk Rice Pudding in Controlling Bacillus cereus and Bacillus subtilis Growth with Respect to the Sensory Traits | Author : Aml S. Ibrahim, Ola W. Hegab and Neveen S. M. Soliman | Abstract | Full Text | Abstract :Milk rice pudding (MRP) is a commercial and popular dairy dessert, but owing to its characteristics and valuable ingredients, it may be contaminated by many pathogenic and spoilage microorganisms. So, this study aimed to improve the quality and safety of MRP by using cinnamon and clove essential oils. Concerning the evaluation of the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) for both oils with 0.2, 0.5, and 1% concentrations, B. cereus and B. subtilis were sensitive (+) to cinnamon and clove 0.5%, with inhibition zones of 13.3 and 14 mm for cinnamon and 11.3 and 12 mm for clove EO, respectively. While both bacteria were very sensitive (++) to cinnamon 1% (18.8 and 19.5 mm) and clove 1% (17.3 and 18.7 mm), respectively. Therefore, MRP was prepared by adding cinnamon and clove EOs at 0.6%. Treatments containing EOs showed a significant reduction of tested microorganisms compared to controls. B. cereus wasn’t detected in clove and cinnamon EO treatments at day 21 of the storage period, while B. subtilis vanished on day 14 for the cinnamon treatment and on day 21 for clove MRP. Moreover, the results revealed the enhancement of sensory characteristics of MRP supplemented with EOs without any significant alteration in their pH values. This study recommends the addition of cinnamon and clove EOs (0.6%) to MRP, as it isn’t only an excellent substitution of chemical preservatives with powerful antibacterial efficiency but also improves the overall acceptance of the product. |
| Efficacy of Using Lactic Acid and Beefxide to Reduce Pathogenic E. coli and Salmonella spp. on Beef Carcasses in Mosul Slaughterhouse, Iraq | Author : Israa M. Jweer and Omar A. Al-Mahmood | Abstract | Full Text | Abstract :Meat contamination occurs in a variety of ways, the most significant of which include live animals prior to slaughter (infected animals), workers and tools used in the slaughter process, and post-slaughter activities to prepare the carcasses (removing the skin and viscera). Raw meat remains the primary source of many diseases caused by microbes that are transmitted to humans, especially those that cause food poisoning, such as Escherichia coli and Salmonella spp., which are considered among the most important health problems facing the world. Therefore, we decided to study the efficiency of using some organic acids (lactic acid and beefxide) to reduce the number of pathogenic Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp., on the surfaces of beef carcasses in the slaughterhouse of Mosul city. Eighty samples (beef carcass sponge swabs) were collected over the course of three months between September 13, 2023, and December 11, 2023, using culture method and polymerase chain reaction. Our findings of pathogenic bacteria including Shiga toxin-producing E. coli, showed the presence of 4 isolates out of 40 carcass samples (4/40: 10%); all were isolated from the sample’s prior treatment with organic acids, 3 of which possessed the stx1 gene and one isolate had the stx2 gene. The study also revealed that there were only two isolates of Salmonella spp. (2/40: 5%) in beef carcasses that possessed the invA gene and these are samples that have not been treated with organic acids. This study concludes the effectiveness of lactic acid and beefxide solutions in removing pathogenic bacteria such as Shiga toxin-producing E. coli and Salmonella spp. from beef carcasses. |
| Sarcosporidiosis of the Ovine Esophagus: Frequency and Histopathological Identification of the Species Involved in Tiaret, Algeria | Author : Belhocine Fatima Zohra, Kouidri Mokhtaria, Hemida Houari and Selles Sidi Mohammed Ammar | Abstract | Full Text | Abstract :Sarcosporidiosis is a common parasitic disease due to protozoa of the Sarcocystis genera. This study, conducted in the Tiaret region of Algeria from September 2018 to April 2019, aimed to determine the global frequency of macrocyst esophageal localization, identify risk factors such as sex and age, and conduct a histopathological study to identify the involved species. The infection’s global frequency was 22.77%, the majority of which were sheep over 3 years of age. The females were the most infested compared to the males at 25.13% against 12.20%; the degree of infection was important at 9.31 cysts per infested case. The histopathological study revealed that S. gigantea, whose definitive host is cat, was the causative species of macroscopic Sarcosporidiosis. However, another species with a microscopic character has been revealed during this study; it’s S. tenella. The association between the two species was 31%. To conclude, more control is needed in order to reduce this infection in the study region through the destruction of seizures at the slaughterhouse level and hygiene at the farm level. |
| Neuroprotective Effects of Grape Seed Extract against Cadmium Toxicity in Broilers | Author : Rana M. Al-awadhi, Omnia E. Kilany, Osama M. Abdallah, Fatma M. Naguib and Heba Nageh Gad El-Hak | Abstract | Full Text | Abstract :Ration contamination with cadmium chloride (CdCl2) leads to serious economic loss. The current study aimed to explain the ameliorative effect of grape seed extract (GSE) either alone or in combination with CdCl2. One hundred and fifty chicks were used in the current study. They were equally alienated into 6 groups; group I was kept as control. Group II: given grape seed extract by the first dose (GSE1) of 250 mg/kg; group III: given grape seed extract by the second dose (GSE2) of 500 mg/kg; group IV: given cadmium chloride (CdCl2) to evaluate the undesirable effects of the dose (100 mg/kg diet). Group V: given combination of GSE1+ CdCl2, group VI: given combination of GSE2+ CdCl2. At the end of the 3rd and 5th weeks, the following parameters were measured: Serum oxidants and antioxidants (GSH, SOD, CAT and MDA), brain oxidants and antioxidants (SOD, CAT, MDA, and NO), semi-quantitative RT-PCR detection of brain and liver GST and GPx, as well as serum cytokines (IL-1ß, IL-10, and TNF-a), were determined. The results put on display show that GSE extract considerably ameliorated the levels of serum and tissue oxidants and antioxidants, as well as cytokines that ramshackle CdCl2. Histopathological assessment of brain tissue and BAX brain sections was in concurrence with the immunological, oxidant, antioxidant, and RT-PCR results. It is important to take into consideration that the immunostimulant, antioxidative properties of GSE are mechanistically achieved. So, GSE could be used as a protective agent against ration contamination. |
| Tracking Appearance and Development of the Ossification Centers in Cranium and Skull Base Bones of Iraqi Sheep Fetuses (Ovis aries) Using Double Stain Method | Author : Ghufran Hazim Mohammed, Saffanah Khuder Mahmoodand Ghada Abdulrhman Sultan | Abstract | Full Text | Abstract :The skull is a group of flat and irregular bones that protect the brain and special sense organs. The shape of the head depends on the shape of the skull, which is closely related to certain structural and phenotypic features commonly used to identify and characterize different breeds of animals, their genetic profiles, and their relationship with the surrounding environment. 29 samples of indigenous Iraqi sheep fetuses were collected through daily visits to the slaughterhouses in Mosul city. The crown-rump length was measured to determine gestational ages in days. In the current study, the gestational ages of the fetuses ranged between 40 and 71 days, and a crown-rump length between 2.2 and 17 cm was used to accurately determine the locations of the ossification centers using the double stain (alizarin red S and alizarin blue stain) using an anatomical microscope. Histological examination of the head of the fetus was to determine the different stages of ossification. At 42 days of gestation, several primary ossification centers appeared in the right frontal bone near the right orbit. At 45 days of gestation, ossification centers appeared in the zygomatic processes of the temporal bone and the parietal bone. At 48 days of gestation, ossification centers appeared in the temporal bone. At 50 days of gestation, ossification centers appeared in the sphenoid bone. At 57 days of gestation, ossification centers appeared in the squamous and basilar parts of the occipital bone. At 61 days of gestation, the ossification of the inter-parietal bone and the occipital condyles were observed. Histological examination showed that the ossification center consisted of separate groups of osteoblasts in the membranous neurocranium, which ossified intramembranous. In contrast, the base of the skull was cartilaginous in origin, which ossified the endochondral. The very significant result of this study is that the appearance of ossification centers and their development happen within the seventh to ninth weeks of pregnancy, which makes this period the most dangerous time for bone growth, particularly cranium and skull base bones. Thus, it’s important to prevent giving any medicine or treatment during that period, which might interrupt or delay this vigorous progression. |
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