Open Veterinary Journal最新文献

Background: Avian mycoplasmosis is a significant disease affecting animal health and various bird species. Although it has been widely studied in poultry, there is limited research on wild species such as parrots and macaws in Colombia. In particular, molecular and serological evidence regarding the presence of Mycoplasma gallisepticum and Mycoplasma synoviae in birds rescued from illegal trafficking is lacking.

Aim: To establish the serological and molecular positivity to M. gallisepticum and Mycoplasma synoviae in parrots and macaws housed in Wildlife Care and Assessment Centers (CAVs, for their acronym in Spanish) in three regions of Colombia and to identify potential risk factors associated with the infection.

Methods: Eighty-eight plasma samples and 65 oropharyngeal swabs from parrots (Amazona spp.) and macaws (Ara spp.) from the CAVs of Barbosa (Antioquia), Valledupar (Cesar), and Palmira (Valle del Cauca) were analyzed. The samples were subjected to enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for antibody detection and real-time polymerase chain reaction for pathogen molecular detection. Data on clinical history and region of origin were collected, and 2 × 2 contingency tables were used to evaluate the association between Mycoplasma sp. infection and the variables analyzed. Furthermore, logistic regression was performed to assess the effect of Mycoplasma sp. infection and other variables on clinical signs.

Results: Seropositivities of 10.2% and 2.3% were obtained for Mycoplasma gallisepticum and Mycoplasma synoviae, respectively, with no molecular DNA detection. No statistically significant associations (p < 0.05) were found between infection and the evaluated variables. Logistic regression analysis indicated that weight and region of origin influenced the clinical sign onset. Birds weighing between 300 and 400 g and >500 g were at higher risk (p = 0.028 and p = 0.041, respectively), whereas birds from Valle del Cauca were at lower risk compared with those from Antioquia (p = 0.004).

Conclusion: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of seropositivity to M. gallisepticum and M. synoviae in psittacines from Colombia. Seropositivity in the absence of DNA detection indicates prior exposure without evidence of active infection. The onset of clinical signs was influenced by weight and region, but there was no direct association with Mycoplasma sp. infection.

Background: Somatic cells are milk-secreting epithelial cells shed from the gland lining and white blood cells that enter the mammary gland in response to injury or infection.

Aim: The main objective of the present study was to evaluate the quality of bulk raw cow milk by the somatic cell count (SCC) to identify mastitis in four areas of the Beni Mellal-Khenifra region. In addition, the determination of the relationship between the SCC and mastitis caused by Staphylococcus aureus was assessed, as well as the presence of antibiotic residues.

Methods: SCC was measured using the DeLaval cell counter, S. aureus enumeration was performed using Baird Parker agar medium, and antibiotic residues were tested using the Delvotest method.

Results: A SCC average of 328.1, 329.2, 325.4, and 311.3 × 10³ cells/ml was detected in areas 1-Fkih Ben Salah, 2-Khouribga, 3-Souk Sebt, and 4-Oued Zem, respectively. A S. aureus average of 39.0, 591.0, 372.0, and 854.0 CFU/ml was found in the same areas, respectively. No antibiotic residues were detected in any of the samples analyzed.

Conclusion: In conclusion, the SCC, S. aureus counts, and antibiotic residue results obtained in the studied areas suggest, on the one hand, good herd health status and, on the other hand, the quality and safety of the milk for consumption in these areas. Finally, this represents a new approach to predicting and preventing damage to the mammary glands of dairy cows.

Background: Climate change and rising temperatures present significant challenges for the poultry industry, particularly in broiler production. The high metabolic rates of broilers elevate their internal body temperatures, a situation exacerbated by increasingly hot weather conditions.

Aim: This study investigates the effects of incorporating powdered rosemary leaves into broiler chicken feed at various levels on mortality and biochemical indicators under heat stress conditions.

Methods: The experiment utilized 180 one-hundred and eighteen one-old unsexed Ross 308 chicks. The birds were raised under controlled environmental conditions until 25 days of age and then divided into four treatment groups. Four experimental groups were subjected to heat stress with varying levels of rosemary powder (0.0%, 0.5%, 1.0%, and 1.5%). Each treatment comprised three replicates, each containing 15 birds. Heat stress exposure for 6 hours with temperature up to 34 C° at 34 and 35 days of age. Key parameters investigated were mortality during the experiment, enzymatic activity Creatine kinase, Lactate dehydrogenase, and Gamma-glutamyl transferase.

Results: indicated that adding 0.5% and 1.0% rosemary powder significantly reduced mortality rates during the heat stress period and decreased Creatine kinase and lactate dehydrogenase levels in groups receiving rosemary leaves for a period of 10 days before heat stress. Furthermore, the addition of powdered rosemary leaves did not demonstrate significant changes in Gamma Glutamyl Transferase levels.

Conclusion: These findings suggest that rosemary powder may contribute beneficially to the health of broiler chickens under heat-stress conditions.

Background: Meat and meat products are vital sources of nutrition, but are also associated with foodborne illnesses worldwide. Escherichia coli O157:H7 is a pathogenic strain known to cause severe conditions, such as hemorrhagic colitis, hemolytic-uremic syndrome, and diarrhea. This strain is particularly dangerous due to its very low infectious dose and can be transmitted to humans through contaminated meat.

Aim: This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of E. coli O157:H7 infection in chicken liver samples sold in butcher shops and supermarkets in Tripoli, Libya, and to highlight the associated public health risk.

Methods: A total of 175 chicken liver samples were collected and analyzed. The presence of E. coli was determined using classical culture techniques and the analytical profile index 20E system. The specific strain of E. coli O157:H7 was confirmed using a latex agglutination test with specific antisera.

Results: Of the 175 samples, 81 (46.3%) were positive for E. coli strains. Of these positive samples, 14 (17.3%) were confirmed to be E. coli O157:H7.

Conclusion: Chicken liver may serve as a significant vehicle for E. coli O157:H7 transmission, posing a considerable public health risk. The findings underscore the need for effective control and preventive measures to ensure the safety of meat and meat products throughout the entire meat supply chain.

Background: The poultry industry in Libya has recently experienced significant growth, which is critical for improving food security. However, Toxoplasma gondii poses a threat to this industry because it infects warm-blooded animals, including poultry. Chickens, particularly free-range chickens, may serve as an important reservoir for T. gondii, yet there are no reports regarding the prevalence of this disease in free-range chickens in Libya. Understanding the seroprevalence of Toxoplasma in poultry is crucial for mitigating these risks and ensuring the health of the poultry industry.

Aim: This study examines the occurrence of T. gondii infection in poultry and evaluates its impact on public health in Libya.

Methods: A total of 315 free-range chickens were procured, with blood serum samples collected from the Al-Marj (n = 123), El-Bayda (n = 104), and Derna (n = 88) districts. The sera were analyzed using the indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The chi-square test was used to evaluate a significant correlation between the seroprevalence of T. gondii and area, sex, and age.

Results: The overall seroprevalence of T. gondii antibodies was 23.8%. Among the districts, the highest prevalence was recorded in Al-Marj (26.8%), followed by El-Bayda (25%) and Derna (18.2%). Male chickens had a higher prevalence rate (26%; 25/96) than females (22.8%; 50/219), although no statistical difference was found between the genders. Interestingly, older chickens had a significantly higher seroprevalence (39.2%; 31/79) than younger chickens (28.6%; 24/84).

Conclusion: In Libya, free-range chickens are a potential source of Toxoplasma infection, with older chickens having a significantly higher seroprevalence than younger chickens. These free-range chickens could pose an infection risk to humans.

Background: A 23-year-old female Bornean sun bear presented with symptoms of right eye discomfort, including frequent blinking and scratching. Ophthalmic examination revealed a dilated right pupil, anterior lens displacement, and early-stage bilateral cataracts. Corneal edema developed in the right eye.

Case description: An intracapsular lens extraction was performed to remove the right dislocated lens and ruptured capsule 3 weeks later. Postoperative care included topical eye drops, oral anti-inflammatory drugs, and antibiotics. Mild eyelid swelling, ocular rubbing, and decreased appetite were noted during the first postoperative week. By day 18, the eyelid swelling had resolved and the eye was fully open; however, a persistent corneal opacity rendered the right eye blind.

Conclusion: This case illustrates the complexities of ophthalmic surgery in a Bornean sun bear, particularly in managing postoperative complications and visual outcomes. This underscores the importance of early detection and timely surgical intervention in wildlife medicine to improve prognosis and preserve ocular health.

Background: The cat liver is a crucial organ located in the upper abdomen, which is important for digestion and various body functions. It is shaped to fit within the rib cage and moves readily with breathing because of its connection with the diaphragm.

Aim: This study aimed to observe the anatomical differences that occur in young and mature domestic cats (Felis catus) and the impact of environmental changes (represented by environmental pollution resulting from the accumulation of pollutants in recent years in the country) evident in the anatomical findings of the current generation of this species.

Methods: This study was conducted on a local breed of cats [immature and mature (Felis catus)] in Iraq at different ages from 30 days to 2 years. Cats were characterized by segmentation of the right lobes (medial and lateral), left lobes (medial and lateral), and the caudate lobe with the presence of the papilla and process, and the quadrate lobe.Anatomically, ten animals were used in the study, consisting of five immature and five mature cats. The cats were euthanized by administering an overdose of ketamine hydrochloride, then making an incision to remove the viscera to end up at the liver, checking it grossly without any pathological change, and taking the necessary measurements and weighing the liver.

Results: The quadrate lobe was divided into two parts, anterior and posterior, in the mature cat, but not in the immature cat. Significant differences in the gallbladder and the macroscopic branches that branch off it were also observed in immature cats. In immature cats, a vestigial gallbladder with a duct exiting it was present; in divergent mature cats, this is consistent with other animals, in the mature and the immature cat according the Mean ± SE the two Liver weights (112.4 ± 21.07 and 29 ± 3.801) SD (4.8 and 2.8, respectively) and gall bladder length (14.06 ± 0.655and SD 8.88 ± 0.311), respectively, statically no significant value.

Conclusion: Finally, anatomical and physiological studies are necessary to investigate the physiological environmental factors that may contribute to the lobular divisions of the liver in cats.

Background: Urea, a non-protein nitrogen, is a widely used, affordable, and readily available protein supplement.

Aim: This study aimed to investigate the effect of urea as a protein substitute in growing camel rations on performance, digestion, nitrogen balance, blood metabolites, antioxidant status, immunity, inflammatory markers, and rumen fermentation, and to identify its ideal inclusion level.

Methods: Twenty Dromedary camels (Camelus dromedarius) with one hump, originally from Egypt, aged around 30 months, averaging 305.25 ± 2.15 kg in body weight, were randomly allocated to four treatments with 5 animals in each group. The crude protein of the camel diets was substituted with urea as follows: 0 (0% urea, T1), 33% (1.4% urea, T2), 50% (2.1% urea, T3), and 66% (2.8% urea, T4).

Results: Weight gain and feed conversion were significantly improved (p < 0.05) in camels fed with 33% urea substitution. Adding urea to camel diets significantly affected (p < 0.05) nutrient digestion coefficients. Camels fed with urea had significantly higher absorbed and retained nitrogen (p < 0.05) than those on the control diet, peaking in camels with 33% urea substitution. Including more urea in the diet of camels significantly boosted (p < 0.05) total protein, albumin, globulin, blood urea, and creatinine levels. In contrast, LDH showed a significant decrease (p < 0.05) as the urea level increased. Serum immunoglobulins, oxidative biomarkers, inflammatory cytokines, and ruminal parameters were not affected by urea supplementation, except for a significant increase in propionate and ammonia concentrations with higher urea supplementation.

Conclusion: The findings suggest that up to 33% of the crude protein in camel diets can be substituted with urea to improve performance, feed conversion efficiency, digestibility, and nitrogen balance without any adverse effects.

Background: In veterinary medicine, voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs) are key drug targets. Calcium channel blockers (CCBs) are the standard treatment for common feline diseases, such as systemic hypertension and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. However, therapeutic strategies are limited due to the adverse effects of existing drugs like amlodipine, such as activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. A critical lack of feline-specific data on the tissue distribution of VGCC subtypes fundamentally hinders the safe and effective application of CCBs in cats. This is because knowledge from other species is often not translatable due to the unique metabolic pathways in cats.

Aim: To fill this critical data gap, the present study created the first baseline quantitative map of the mRNA expression of seven major VGCC α1-subunits across a comprehensive range of feline tissues.

Methods: Twelve tissue types were collected from a single 16-month-old male cat. Using a validated TaqMan probe-based quantitative real-time PCR assay, we measured the relative mRNA expression of seven CaV α1-subunit genes: CACNA1S (CaV1.1), CACNA1C (CaV1.2), CACNA1D (CaV1.3), CACNA1F (CaV1.4), CACNA1B (CaV2.2), CACNA1G (CaV3.1), and CACNA1H (CaV3.2). Relative transcript abundance was calculated using the 2-ΔCt method with 18S rRNA as the endogenous control for normalization.

Results: The seven VGCC genes exhibited distinct, tissue-specific expression patterns. CACNA1S expression was predominantly localized to skeletal muscle. The heart showed the highest expression of CACNA1C and CACNA1H. The brain displayed prominent CACNA1B, CACNA1C, and CACNA1G expression. The mesenteric lymph node also showed significant CACNA1C, CACNA1F, and CACNA1G expression. Conversely, the liver and pancreas consistently displayed very low expression for most of the channel genes investigated.

Conclusion: This study provides the first foundational mRNA expression map of major VGCC α1-subunits in feline tissues. The results reveal unique expression profiles that highlight both conserved physiological functions and significant differences compared to other species, particularly in cardiac and lymphoid tissues. These molecular data are vital for advancing feline pharmacology by enabling more accurate predictions of the therapeutic and adverse effects of CCBs and provide a critical resource for future investigations into feline channelopathies.

Background: The leaf ethanolic extract of Etlingera hemisphaerica (LE3H) changes the levels of eight protein bands in the blood serum impacted by mercury chloride (HgCl₂), making them closer to the normal state in Rattus norvegicus.

Aim: This study aimed to understand the effect of LE3H on restoring the intensity of serum proteins in R. norvegicus previously induced by HgCl₂.

Methods: Male R. norvegicus (rats) were categorized into four groups (K0, K1, K2, and K3), each with four rats. K1, K2, and K3 were administered an intraperitoneal injection of 5 mg/kg body weight (BW) HgCl₂. After 24 hours, K1 was gavaged daily with double-distilled (DD) water for 7 days, K2 was gavaged daily for 7 days at a rate of 0.27 mg/g BW LE3H, and K3 was gavaged daily for 7 days at a dose of 0.55 mg/g BW LE3H. Similarly, DD water was given to K0 as a control. On the ninth day, we used cervical dislocation to euthanize the animals and collected their blood from the heart to produce serum. Serum protein levels were quantified using the Lowry method, followed by protein isolation via two-dimensional sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The 2D electropherograms were computerized comparisons, molecular weight and pI measurements, protein digestion and peptide extraction, nano-liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry, data processing, and protein identification.

Results: The 2D electropherograms successfully separated 72 spot proteins. The presence of 16 (A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J, K, L, M, N, O, and P) protein spots significantly increased or decreased influenced by HgCl₂ treatment, and then LE3H administration restored the presence of these proteins to close to control conditions. Four selected protein spots with National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) D[gi|37805241], F[gi|295916], H[gi|155369696; gi|60551611], and K [gi|149056721] were significantly increased influenced by HgCl₂, and then LE3H restored these proteins to close to control conditions. Four selected protein spots with NCBI L[gi|149043886; gi|116597], M[gi|121041], O[gi|231468], and P[gi|546056; gi|6981010] significantly decreased influenced by HgCl₂, and then LE3H restored these proteins to close to control conditions.

Conclusion: LE3H may serve as a potential herbal agent to mitigate mercury-induced systemic toxicity via serum protein expression modulation.