Comparison of three progesterone quantification methods using blood samples drawn from bitches during the periovulatory phase

Research (Published online: 24-01-2022)

15. Comparison of three progesterone quantification methods using blood samples drawn from bitches during the periovulatory phase

Hassan A. Hussein, Gerhard Schuler, Theresa Conze and Axel Wehrend

Veterinary World, 15(1): 119-123

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Measuring blood progesterone (P4) concentration has become an essential diagnostic tool in small animal reproductive medicine. Methods enabling precise and rapid on-site measurements are in high demand, especially for the optimization of breeding management in bitches. This study aimed to compare two commercial on-site methods (Speed™ P4, Virbac [M1] and mini VIDAS®, bioMérieux [M2]) and a well-established radioimmunoassay (RIA), which was used as a reference method.

Materials and Methods: Comparative measurements were performed on 52 blood serum samples collected from 45 clinically healthy bitches of different breeds. The dogs had been presented to determine the estrus cycle stage and predict the time of ovulation. Each sample was divided into three aliquots. In aliquot 1, P4 was measured immediately applying M2. Aliquots 2 and 3 were stored at –20°C until analysis was performed using RIA and M1. The consistency of the three methods was investigated by pairwise linear regression analyses.

Results: In RIA, the P4 concentrations ranged between 1.1 and 25.4 ng/mL. Regression analyses revealed highly significant (p<0.0001) positive correlations between the three methods applied (M1 vs. RIA: R=0.94; M2 vs. RIA: R=0.98; and M1 vs. M2: R=0.91).

Conclusion: The results show that the two commercial on-site methods tested exhibit approximately equal, high consistency with the radioimmunological reference method and can, therefore, be used beneficially in a clinical setting. However, biological interpretation of data must be performed in a method-specific manner.

Keywords: dog, enzyme-linked immunofluorescence, immunochromatography, progesterone, radioimmunoassay.

Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii and associated alterations in hematology and serum biochemistry of one-humped camels (Camelus dromedarius) in Pakistan

Research (Published online: 22-01-2022)

14. Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii and associated alterations in hematology and serum biochemistry of one-humped camels (Camelus dromedarius) in Pakistan

Aamir Shehzad, Awais Masud, Tabassam Fatima, Fraz Munir Khan, Saifur Rehman, Mustofa Helmi Effendi, Lucia Tri Suwanti, Iahtasham Khan, Wiwiek Tyasningsih, Shah Faisal, Zain Ul Abadeen and Samreen Bibi

Veterinary World, 15(1): 110-118

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Toxoplasma gondii is an intracellular protozoan that infects humans and animals. This study aimed to estimate the seroprevalence of T. gondii and the associated alterations in hematology and serum biochemistry of one-humped camels (Camelus dromedarius) in Mianwali district, Pakistan.

Materials and Methods: A total of 350 blood samples were obtained from male and female camels of different ages (≤3 years old, 4-6 years old, and ≥7 years old). To validate T. gondii antibodies, the collected samples were subjected to indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay using purified recombinant micronemal protein 3 as an antibody catching antigen.

Results: The prevalence of T. gondii was 50.2% higher in male camels than in female camels (16.5%) (p<0.001). Furthermore, the prevalence of T. gondii in camels was directly proportional to age (p<0.001). It was 63.33% (57/90) in camels of ≥7 years of age, 32.54% in 4-6 years old age group, and 23.08% in ≤3 years old age group. The hematological analysis of infected camels revealed a significant increase in the values of glucocorticoid-remediable aldosteronism, lymphocyte percentage, monocyte percentage (MONO%), corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), and procalcitonin. Furthermore, substantially higher levels of liver enzymes alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and the macro-mineral potassium were found in the serum of T. gondii-infected camels.

Conclusion: The seropositivity of T. gondii is directly associated with the age and sex of camels, which may be considered as potential risk factors. Furthermore, T. gondii infection directly impacts the hemato-biochemistry of infected camels.

Keywords: biochemistry, camel, hematology, public health, seroprevalence, Toxoplasma gondii.

The enriched Y-bearing sperm combined with delayed fixed-time artificial insemination for obtaining male Simmental crossbred offspring

Research (Published online: 22-01-2022)

13. The enriched Y-bearing sperm combined with delayed fixed-time artificial insemination for obtaining male Simmental crossbred offspring

Dewa Ketut Meles, Imam Mustofa, Mas'ud Hariadi, Wurlina Wurlina, Suherni Susilowati, Anny Amaliya, Suparto Suparto and Rimayanti Rimayanti

Veterinary World, 15(1): 102-109

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: The production of male calf beef cattle is an agricultural innovation needed to increase the farm's productivity as a provider of meat sources. This study aimed to determine the sex ratio of the offspring of cows inseminated with Y-bearing sperm enriched by Percoll density gradient centrifugation and swim up, combined with delayed fixed-time artificial insemination (FTAI).

Materials and Methods: Ejaculates of Simmental bulls were divided into four equal portions and grouped as T0 (control, non-sexed semen), T1 and T2 were sexed semen using Percoll density gradient centrifugation three and five levels, respectively, and T3 was sexed semen using swim-up. After the sex was sorted, the semen was diluted in a tris egg yolk extender, packaged in French mini-straws containing 50 million live sperm cells, and frozen. Pre-sexed, post-sexed, and post-thawed spermatozoa were evaluated based on progressive motility, viability, intact plasma membrane, and abnormality. The post-thawed semen of T0 was artificially inseminated to recipient cows at 12 h after onset of estrus (not delayed FTAI). Meanwhile, the delayed FTAI was conducted 18 20 h after onset of estrus using the T0, the best of T1 and T2, and the T3 post-thawed semen.

Results: The Percoll density gradient centrifugation reduced motility, viability, and intact plasma membrane but increased sperm abnormalities. Meanwhile, the swim up process increased motility, viability, and intact plasma membrane of sperm cells but decreased sperm abnormalities. Post-thawed semen decreased motility, viability, and intact plasma membrane of sperm cells but increased sperm abnormalities. The sex ratio of the Simmental crossbred offspring was 96.08% and 100% in T1 and T3, respectively, compared to 48.25% and 67.39% in T0 not delayed and delayed FTAI, respectively.

Conclusion: The Percoll density gradient centrifugation and swim-up methods are prospective for obtaining male offspring.

Keywords: agricultural innovation, farm productivity, motility, pregnancy rate, sperm morphologic abnormality, viability.

Assessment of aflatoxin M1 and B1 in some dairy products with referring to the analytical performances of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in comparison to high-performance liquid chromatography

Research (Published online: 22-01-2022)

12. Assessment of aflatoxin M1 and B1 in some dairy products with referring to the analytical performances of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in comparison to high-performance liquid chromatography

Raghda Mohamed Esam, Ragaa Shehata Hafez, Nagwa Ibrahim Mohamed Khafaga, Karima Mogahed Fahim and Lamiaa Ibrahim Ahmed

Veterinary World, 15(1): 91-101

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) is a major fungal metabolite found in milk coming from aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) contaminated rations and is subsequently present in milk-based products demonstrating a serious public health hazard. This study aimed to investigate the levels of AFM1 and AFB1 in milk and some dairy products consumed widely by infants and children.

Materials and Methods: This study investigated the incidence of AFM1 in 105 samples of processed cheese, Ras cheese, and raw milk (35 of each) retailed in the Egyptian markets. The degree of sensitivity and accuracy was evaluated using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method followed by the estimation of the positive samples using the high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with fluorescence detection. Mold count was determined in the examined samples by investigating AFB1 content using HPLC.

Results: AFM1 was found in all investigated Ras cheese, raw milk, and 82.86% of the processed cheese samples with mean values of 51.05±6.19, 40.27±3.996, and 10.77±1.39 ng/kg, respectively. Moreover, there was statistically no significant difference between AFM1 levels in the core and crust parts of the tested Ras cheese. AFM1 contaminated Ras cheese and raw milk samples were 48.57% and 25.71%, which exceeded the European and Egyptian tolerance levels. Results showed an acceptable correlation between ELISA and HPLC methods with no significant difference (p>0.05). Alternatively, none of the examined samples proved to be contaminated with AFB1 despite the presence of mold with mean counts of 3.79±3.29, 4.39±4.34, and 4.84±4.29 log CFU/g in the examined processed cheese, Ras cheese, and raw milk samples, respectively.

Conclusion: Therefore, it is urgent to regularly inspect the contamination of animal feeds with AFB1 and apply special measures and novel techniques to protect the feed and food from public health hazards.

Keywords: aflatoxin B1, aflatoxin M1, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, high-performance liquid chromatography, mold, sensitivity.

Anthelmintic resistance status of goat gastrointestinal nematodes in Sing Buri Province, Thailand

Research (Published online: 20-01-2022)

11. Anthelmintic resistance status of goat gastrointestinal nematodes in Sing Buri Province, Thailand

Niorn Ratanapob, Nattanan Thuamsuwan and Suporn Thongyuan

Veterinary World, 15(1): 83-90

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Promotions of goat farming by both public and private sectors encouraged considerable goat raising in central Thailand. Gastrointestinal nematodes (GIN) infection is a major health and economic problem; however, evidence of resistance to broad-spectrum anthelmintics is frequently reported. Investigation of anthelmintic resistance (AR) status and identification of factors related to the development of AR is important components for sustainable GIN control. However, no information is available on this topic in the study area. The present study aimed to gather information on GIN control practices and to evaluate the effectiveness of albendazole, ivermectin, and levamisole for treating GIN infestation in goat herds in Sing Buri Province.

Materials and Methods: Twenty-nine herds were randomly selected. Information on management practices was collected by face-to-face interview using a structured questionnaire. Three field experiments for routinely used anthelmintics, including albendazole, ivermectin, and levamisole were conducted from June 2019 to November 2019. Fecal samples were collected pre- and post-treatment and examined for fecal egg count reduction to determine the status of anthelmintic resistance of goat GIN.

Results: Several improper practices were identified that lead to AR, especially chronic use of albendazole and ivermectin. All herds were considered resistant to albendazole and ivermectin, and levamisole resistant nematodes were detected in two herds. AR was strongly linked with the continuous use of anthelmintics.

Conclusion: Levamisole, which was still effective in the province, should be used with caution to minimize the selection of resistant strains. Farmers should be provided with updated information for sustainable parasite control. Further, the efficacy of anthelmintics should be routinely monitored.

Keywords: anthelmintic resistance, fecal egg count, gastrointestinal nematode, goat.

Effect of methanolic extract from Capsicum annuum against the multiplication of several Babesia species and Theileria equi on in vitro cultures, and Babesia microti in mice

Research (Published online: 20-01-2022)

10. Effect of methanolic extract from Capsicum annuum against the multiplication of several Babesia species and Theileria equi on in vitro cultures, and Babesia microti in mice

Mohamed Abdo Rizk, Shimaa Abd El-Salam El-Sayed, Mostafa Al-Araby and Ikuo Igarashi

Veterinary World, 15(1): 76-82

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Piroplasmosis is a serious disease that infects animals, inflicting significant economic losses in the livestock industry and animal trade worldwide. Anti-piroplasm drugs now on the market have demonstrated host toxicity and parasite resistance. As a result, developing more effective and safer anti-piroplasm drugs becomes an urgent issue. This study aimed to evaluate the inhibitory effect of Capsicum annuum methanolic extract (CA) against the growth of Babesia bovis, Babesia divergens, Babesia caballi, and Theileria equi in vitro and against B. microti in mice.

Materials and Methods: Fluorescence-based SYBR Green I assay was used to evaluate CA's inhibitory effect in vitro and in vivo when used either as a monotherapy or combined with diminazene aceturate (DA). The hematological parameters (HCT, hemoglobin, and red blood cells counts) were determined in the blood of mice every 96 h using Celltac α MEK-6450 electronic hematology analyzer.

Results: The in vitro growth of B. bovis, B. divergens, T. equi, and B. caballi was inhibited by CA in a dose-dependent manner with IC50 values of 4.87±1.23, 44.11±8.03, 8.23±2.54, and 1.26±0.50 mg/mL, respectively. In B. microti-infected mice, a combination therapy consisting of CA and a low dose of DA showed a significant (p<0.05) inhibition of B. microti growth nearly similar to those obtained by treatment with the full dose of DA.

Conclusion: The obtained results indicate that CA might be a promising medicinal plant for treating babesiosis, especially when used with a low dose of DA.

Keywords: Babesia, Capsicum annuum, combination therapy, in vitro, in vivo, Theileria.

Effect of gold nanoparticles shape and dose on immunological, hematological, inflammatory, and antioxidants parameters in male rabbit

Research (Published online: 19-01-2022)

9. Effect of gold nanoparticles shape and dose on immunological, hematological, inflammatory, and antioxidants parameters in male rabbit

Eman T. Mehanna, Basma S. A. Kamel, Dina M. Abo-Elmatty, Sameh M. Elnabtity, Manal B. Mahmoud, Mostafa M. Abdelhafeez and Ahmed Sabry S. Abdoon

Veterinary World, 15(1): 65-75

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Gold nanorods (AuNRs) have gained much attention in recent years due to their promising optical and chemical properties and are hence used in applied research and industrial nanotechnology. This study was designed to investigate the effect of gold nanoparticle shape (Gold nanorods vs. gold nanosphere) on immune response in rabbit.

Materials and Methods: Thirty New Zealand white rabbits were divided into six groups (n=5 rabbits). The first group is the control negative received an intravenous (IV) injection of normal saline 0.9%; the second group (vaccinated) is the control positive, and the other four groups were vaccinated and received a single-dose or repeated five consecutive IV doses of 300 μg/kg body weight 50 nm AuNRs or 50 nm gold nanosphere (50 nm AuNSs) dissolved in ultrapure water. Blood and serum were collected for the hematological and biochemical analysis.

Results: White blood cells (WBCs) count, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils showed significantly (p<0.05) higher values with the repeated-dose AuNRs. γ-globulin levels showed a significant difference after 15 days in the single-dose AuNSs. Single-dose AuNSs significantly (p<0.05) increased the immunoglobulin G (IgG) and significantly (p<0.05) decreased the tumor necrosis factor-alpha. In addition, it elicited a significant (p<0.05) decrease in the malondialdehyde levels and a significant (p<0.05) increase of the superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and catalase levels. Moreover, evoked red blood cells count, mean corpuscular volume, and mean corpuscular hemoglobin were significantly (p<0.05) lower than the control group. The platelet count, lysozymes, and nitric oxide were significantly (p<0.05) higher in repeated-dose AuNRs.

Conclusion: The effect of AuNPs is shape and dose-dependent. The repeated 5 days IV 50 nm AuNRs doses over 15 days showed a significant antioxidant effect, with no considerable toxicity or vascular reactions.

Keywords: antioxidant's activity, dose, gold nanorods, gold nanospheres, hematological, immunological parameters, rabbit.