Showing papers in "Comparative Haematology International in 2012"
TL;DR: Blood serum biochemical parameters can be used for confirming the maturity and monitoring any changes in the quality of waters and related soils, and were significantly correlated at P’< 0.05 level.
Abstract: Haematological parameters have been recognized as valuable tools for monitoring fish health. Haematological and serum biochemical parameters were studied and compared different feeding behaviour of teleost fishes. Three marine teleost fishes, Lates calcarifer (carnivores), Mugil cephalus (omnivores) and Chanos chanos (herbivores), were carried out in order to find out a normal range of blood parameters which would serve as baseline data for assessment of the health status of the fish as well as reference point for future comparative surveys. Blood parameters such as red blood cell count (RBC) and white blood cells count (WBC), haemoglobin, haematocrit, mean cell haemoglobin concentration (MCHC), mean cell volume (MCV), mean cell haemoglobin, glucose, protein, cholesterol and urea were estimated from teleost fishes of different trophic level. Statistical analysis revealed that differences in haematological parameters between marine fish were significant (P < 0.01). The result revealed that haematological RBC/WBC ratio, MCV and MCHC were significantly correlated at P < 0.05 level. The RBC/WBC level increased due to the decrease in WBC during the study. Blood serum biochemical parameters can be used for confirming the maturity and monitoring any changes in the quality of waters and related soils.
117 citations
TL;DR: The result revealed that RBC, RBC/WBC ratio, HCT, HB, ESR, PRO, GLU and UR was significantly correlated at P’< 0.05 level, which can be attributed to the physiological acclimatisation of the fish to their living conditions and feeding regime, which influences the energy metabolism and consequently, the health of theFish.
Abstract: Haematological parameters are often used to assess the health status and as stress indicators in fishes. In this present study, the haematological parameters such as red blood cell count (RBC), white blood cell count (WBC), haematocrit (HCT), haemoglobin (HB), mean cell volume, mean cell haemoglobin and mean cell haemoglobin concentration, RBC/WBC ratio, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and biochemical such as serum glucose (GLU), protein (PRO), cholesterol and urea (UR) of seven teleost fish species were determined. Statistical analysis confirmed that differences in haematological parameters between all the species were (P < 0.01) significant. The result revealed that RBC, RBC/WBC ratio, HCT, HB, ESR, PRO, GLU and UR was significantly correlated at P < 0.05 level. RBC/WBC level was more due to the decrease in WBC during the study. These differences can be attributed to the physiological acclimatisation of the fish to their living conditions and feeding regime, which influences the energy metabolism and consequently, the health of the fish.
60 citations
TL;DR: The results indicated that dietary nucleotide supplementation was capable of affecting hematological parameters and physiological stress responses of Beluga juveniles.
Abstract: The present study aimed to investigate the effects of dietary nucleotide on serum biochemical and hematological parameters as well as stress response in Beluga sturgeon Huso huso juveniles. Fish (12.6 ± 0.5 g) were fed diets containing 0%, 0.15%, 0.25%, 0.35%, and 0.50% nucleotide over a 62-day period. The experiment was carried out in 600-L tanks with 30 fish per tank. Fish were fed five times a day until apparent satiation. At the end of the experiment, blood samples were collected from treatments for investigation of biochemical and hematological parameters. Then, fish were subjected to an acute stress. Blood samples were collected at 0 and 6 h post stress, and plasma cortisol and glucose levels were determined. The results showed that total protein, cholesterol, triglycerides, albumin, and globulin were not affected by dietary nucleotide (P > 0.05). Hematocrit and hemoglobin values were significantly higher in the 0.35% treatment compared to those of the control (P < 0.05). Beluga juveniles fed 0.5% dietary nucleotide had a significantly lower hemoglobin value (P < 0.05). Lymphocyte proportion was significantly higher in the 0.25 and 0.35 nucleotide groups than in the control group (P < 0.05). Cortisol and glucose levels in all groups were significantly affected by time; nevertheless, in fish fed nucleotides, stress-induced cortisol elevation was lower compared to that of the control group (P < 0.05). The results indicated that dietary nucleotide supplementation was capable of affecting hematological parameters and physiological stress responses of Beluga juveniles.
56 citations
TL;DR: It was determined that levamisole, with an intensity of 4+, and methanolic extracts of A. sativum L., have a good anti-leech effect and can be shown to be effective in cases of leech biting, while metronidazole and distilled water were negative.
Abstract: This study was carried out to detect the effects of methanolic extracts of Allium sativum L. on Limnatis nilotica. In this experimental study in September 2010, a number of leeches (70 in total) from the southern area of Ilam province were prepared, the effects of the methanolic extract of A. sativum L. with levamisole and metronidazole as the control drugs were compared, and distilled water was evaluated as the placebo group which investigated L. nilotica using anti-leech assay. The average time of paralysis and death of Limnatis nilotica for Metronidazole, methanol extract of Allium sativum L. and Levamisole was 718.77 ± 66.3 min, 5.11 ± 1.76 min and 144.55 ± 57.217 min, respectively. Distilled water and garlic tablets at a dose of 400 mg were determined as the inert group. In this research, the attraction time of death of leeches among different treatments is significant. In this study, it was determined that levamisole, with an intensity of 4+, and methanolic extracts of A. sativum L., with an intensity of 2+, have a good anti-leech effect and can be shown to be effective in cases of leech biting, while metronidazole and distilled water were negative.
46 citations
TL;DR: The results of present study showed that methanolic extract of Z. multiflora has high scolicidal activity and might be used as an effective scoliidal agent.
Abstract: Hydatidosis in humans and animals is an economic and public health problem in many parts of the world, and surgery is still the main treatment for hydatid disease. One of the most important endpoints of hydatid cyst surgery is recurrence. The main cause of recurrence is dissemination of protoscolices during the surgical operation. Preoperative destruction of the cyst’s contents through instillation of a scolicidal agent into the hydatid cyst is the most commonly used approach to prevent this complication. Various scolicidal agents have been used for inactivation of the cyst content, but most are accompanied by adverse side effects. In the present study, the scolicidal effect of methanolic extract of Zataria multiflora is investigated. Protoscoleces were aseptically collected from sheep livers containing hydatid cyst and were used in the experiments. Z. multiflora extract was used at a concentration of 10 and 25 mg/ml for 1, 2, and 3 min. Viability of protoscoleces was confirmed by 0.1% eosin staining. Z. multiflora extract at a concentration of 10 mg/ml killed 68.9%, 93.7%, and 100% of protoccoleces after 1, 2, and 3 min respectively. The scolicidal effect of this extract at a concentration of 25 mg/ml was 100% after 1 min. The results of present study showed that methanolic extract of Z. multiflora has high scolicidal activity and might be used as an effective scolicidal agent. This is the first report on the scolicidal activity of Z. multiflora.
44 citations
TL;DR: The data showed that the LD50 values for N. tabacum were 13 × 104 ppm which was considerable compared with positive control which offers an opportunity for using the plant for anti-parasite purposes.
Abstract: In this study, we evaluated the potential use of Nicotina tabacum in controlling leech populations. After treating the leeches with different concentrations of N. tabacum for 30 min, the LC50 values were analysed. Copper sulphate and ammonium chloride were used as positive controls. The anti-parasitic effect of N. tabacum was compared with positive controls. Our data showed that the LD50 values for N. tabacum were 13 × 104 ppm which was considerable compared with positive control. Our finding offers an opportunity for using the plant for anti-parasite purposes.
42 citations
TL;DR: A positive correlation between erythrocyte size and nucleus size for Siamese fighting fish was found and sex-dependent differences for total white blood cell count, lymphocytes and heterophils in SiamesE fighting fish were found.
Abstract: The aim of the present study was to obtain baseline data on blood cell size, morphology and haematological parameters in Siamese fighting fish (Betta splendens) since there is limited information in the published literature. Blood samples from the caudal vein of apparently healthy Siamese fighting fish (male: n = 40 and female: n = 36) were collected. Haematological values of the blood samples were determined using standard techniques. The morphological features of blood cells were described according to observations made by light microscopy. The various types of blood cells measurement were carried out with the help of a stage and an ocular micrometre at a magnification of ×1,000. Erythrocytes, thrombocytes and four types of leucocytes: lymphocytes, monocytes, heterophils and eosinophils, were distinguished and characterised. The average size of the erythrocyte cell and nucleus was 97.33 and 16.28 μm2, respectively. Results showed a positive correlation between erythrocyte size and nucleus size for Siamese fighting fish (r = 0.470, p 0.05).
30 citations
TL;DR: Intracolonic administration of licorice extract showed more anti-inflammatory and healing effects in comparison to other groups, and can be suggested as a therapeutic of choice in UC.
Abstract: Several studies have shown the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of licorice extract. This study aims to evaluate the anti-inflammatory and healing effects of licorice extract in acetic acid-induced ulcerative colitis (UC) in rat as an animal model. In summer 2008, forty-eight male Wistar rats were divided into six equal groups. Group I as normal control group received 0.5 ml/kg normal saline; group II, 0.5 ml/kg saline after induction of UC with 3% acetic acid; group III, 50 mg/kg licorice extract orally; group IV, 100 mg/kg licorice extract orally; group V, 150 mg/kg licorice extract orally; and group VI, 150 mg/kg licorice extract intracolonic. In all animals, the distal 10-cm portion of the colon was removed after 7 days for macroscopic and histological investigation. Inflammation following acetic acid administration was characterized by edema, diffuse inflammatory cell infiltration, and necrosis. Administration of oral 100 and 150 mg/kg and intracolonic 150 mg/kg of licorice extract significantly reduced the colonic inflammatory response and edema. Intracolonic administration of licorice extract showed more anti-inflammatory and healing effects in comparison to other groups. Therefore, licorice extract can be suggested as a therapeutic of choice in UC.
29 citations
TL;DR: The results indicated that blood parameters levels between the sexes in summer were significantly different than that measure in other seasons except mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) and MCHC value (P < 0.05).
Abstract: Hematological parameters are repeatedly used as an essential diagnostic tool to assess the health condition of fish. The purpose of this study was to assess the reference values of some hematological parameters of Catla, Catla catla collected from a freshwater pond in a tropical climate of India from July 2008 to June 2010. Variations in hematological parameters such as hemoglobin, erythrocyte count, total leucocyte count, hematocrit, mean corpuscular volume (MCV), and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) of fish were compared according to sex and seasonal differences. Analysis of variance showed that there were significant differences between sexes and the results indicated that blood parameters levels between the sexes in summer were significantly different than that measure in other seasons except mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) and MCHC value (P < 0.05). The number of total leukocyte levels was found to be higher in female fish especially in reproductive seasons, but the levels of hemoglobin, hematocrit, and MCV values were high in male fish in an annual period. However, there was no difference in MCH and MCHC values between the sexes and seasons throughout the study period. These may be related to season of sampling and changing physiological cycles during these months. The correlations between measured hematological parameters were also determined.
29 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors evaluated the serum concentration of calcium, chloride, phosphorus, magnesium, sodium, and potassium, in sheep and goats, during 12 months, and showed that the seasonal difference existing between sheep and goat is significant and provides useful information in livestock productions.
Abstract: The aim of this study was to evaluate the serum concentration of calcium, chloride, phosphorus, magnesium, sodium, and potassium, in sheep and goats, during 12 months. The experimental subjects were six female sheep (Valle del Belice breed; aged 4 ± 1 years; mean weight, 68 ± 6 kg) and six female goats (Maltese breed; aged 3 ± 1 years; mean weight, 45 ± 3 kg). All subjects were clinically healthy and not pregnant nor lactating before and during the study. Blood samples were collected every 30 days at the same time (09:00) for 1 year (12 months). On the obtained sera, calcium, chloride, phosphorus, and magnesium were assessed by means of UV spectrophotometry; sodium and potassium were assessed by means of semiautomatic flame photometry. The application of the periodic model and statistical analysis of the cosinor procedure demonstrated seasonal rhythms of calcium, chloride, and sodium only in goats. Calcium showed the acrophase during the spring season, whereas the sodium and chloride serum values showed a seasonal rhythm with the acrophase in early summer. Our study sheds light on the seasonal difference existing between sheep and goats and provides useful information in livestock productions.
27 citations
TL;DR: Evidence is provided that the daily administration of the ethanolic extract of P. guajava leaves altered the serum homeostasis and produced pathological changes in selected rat tissues.
Abstract: This study investigated the effects of chronic daily administration of ethanolic extract of Psidium guajava leaf on rat serum homeostasis and tissue morphology over a period of 7 days. The animals were divided into two groups (Groups A & B) of five rats each. Group A received distilled water which is the vehicle for the ethanolic extract administration. Group B received 150 mg/kg rat weight of the ethanolic extract of P. guajava. The rats were sacrificed and samples prepared after 1, 3, 5 and 7 daily doses. There was significant increase in the serum urea and creatinine relative to control group (P 0.05). Results from the histopathological examinations of tissues revealed apparent loss of cellular architecture in animals treated with the ethanolic extract relative to control group. Observation of portal tract inflammation and scattered necrotic spots in the liver of ethanolic extract treated animals showed severity with progression of daily administration of the extract. Histolological observations of kidney in the treated group revealed tubular congestion and pronounced inflammation, which also increased in severity with progression of daily administration of the extract. We provide evidence that the daily administration of the ethanolic extract of P. guajava leaves altered the serum homeostasis and produced pathological changes in selected rat tissues.
TL;DR: This study was undertaken to investigate the phenotypic and genotypic screening of virulence genes in E. coli K99 and F41 and proven not to be toxigenic as they did not possess the STa enterotoxin gene.
Abstract: Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) is one of the major causes of neonatal calf diarrhea. Almost all ETEC bacteria are known to adhere to receptors on the small intestinal epithelium via their fimbriae, (F5 (K99) and F41).This study was undertaken to investigate the phenotypic and genotypic screening of virulence genes in E. coli K99 and F41. During January 2008 to December 2009, 298 diarrheic neonatal calves at 1–30 days old were studied by multiplex PCR, isolation, and serological grouping. Of the 298 diarrheic samples, 268 E. coli were isolated, of which 16 samples (5.3%) were positive for having the F5 (K99) fimbrial gene by PCR while all of the E. coli isolates also carried F41 fimbrial genes. Twenty-five percent of the isolates were proven not to be toxigenic as they did not possess the STa enterotoxin gene.
TL;DR: Dietary supplementation with green tea powder for 2 weeks has no adverse effect on PCV, intestinal absorption of d-xylose, serum total protein, lipid profile, and mineral concentrations as well as performance parameters of broiler chickens.
Abstract: The aim of the present study was to investigate the putative effects of dietary supplementation with green tea powder on growth performance, d-xylose absorption as well as serum-selected parameters of broiler chickens. Forty 21-day-old chickens were randomly allocated into four groups and fed with diets supplemented with 0% (control), 1%, 2%, or 4% green tea powder for 2 weeks. At the end of the experiment, d-xylose absorption test was performed on all birds on a 45-min basis for 135 min, and PCV as well as serum total protein, total cholesterol, LDL-c, HDL-c, triglycerides, iron, calcium, and phosphorus concentrations were assayed. Body weight, feed intake, and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were also recorded during the experiment. No significant differences were observed in plasma d-xylose concentrations, PCV, or serum parameters among different groups (p > 0.05). Differences in body weight, feed intake, and FCR were insignificant as well. In conclusion, dietary supplementation with green tea powder for 2 weeks has no adverse effect on PCV, intestinal absorption of d-xylose, serum total protein, lipid profile, and mineral concentrations as well as performance parameters of broiler chickens.
TL;DR: It is suggested that kombucha tea has protective effect on acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity, as shown in mice treated with KT.
Abstract: Acetaminophen overdose causes severe hepatotoxicity leading to liver failure in experimental animals and humans. This study was undertaken to evaluate the protective effect of kombucha tea (KT) against acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity. Forty male Balb/c mice were divided into four equal groups: (1) the control group, (2) KT-treated group, (3) acetaminophen-treated group, and (4) KT/acetaminophen-treated group. All mice in group 4 were given KT orally for 7 days before a single hepatotoxic dose of acetaminophen (1,000 mg/kg orally). Activities of liver marker enzymes in serum; aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP); and total protein (TP), albumin (ALB), and direct and total bilirubin levels were determined. Acetaminophen challenge caused significant increases in the levels of bilirubin and liver enzymes (AST, ALT, ALP, and LDH), while TP and ALB levels were reduced significantly. Histopathologic assessments showed that severe glycogen storage in hepatocytes, hepatocellular degeneration and necrosis, mononuclear cell infiltration in portal area, dilation of central veins, and capillarization also reduced in KT/acetaminophen group compared to acetaminophen-treated mice. In conclusion, these findings suggest that KT has protective effect on acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity.
TL;DR: The aim of the study was to estimate the frequency of caseous lymphadenitis (CLA) in sheep and to compare the results of bacterial cultures and histopathology of suspected cases, which revealed an increase in CLA detection with increasing age.
Abstract: From January to February 2008, 468 sheep carcasses (335 male and 133 female) in a Khosroshahr (suburb of Tabriz, East Azerbaijan province, Iran) abattoir were randomly selected for inspection. The aim of the study was to estimate the frequency of caseous lymphadenitis (CLA) in sheep and to compare the results of bacterial cultures and histopathology of suspected cases. The mean age of the population was 2.5 years. One hundred ninety-seven cases containing 153 (77.7%) males and 44 (22.3%) females had prominent enlargement of one of the lymph nodes (i.e., prescapular, prefemoral, inguinal, supramammary, or midiastinal); these were removed with the surrounding tissue for further evaluation. For confirmed diagnosis of CLA, samples were sent for microbiology and pathology analysis. Standard bacteriological culture methods for isolation of Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis and tissue preparations for histopathological sections were performed. To evaluate the effect of age on the frequency of CLA, animals were categorized in four groups: under 1, 1–2, 2–3, and over 3 years of age. Based on the results, in 59 (12.60%) carcasses C. pseudotuberculosis was isolated, and in 94 (20.08%) of the cases histopathological studies revealed pathognomonic signs (lamellated exudates or onion ring) of CLA. The frequency of CLA based on bacteriological culture was 12.60% and on histopathological study 20.08%. In 37 (18.8%) of the carcasses, both bacteriological and histopathological studies confirmed CLA. The frequency of CLA following microscopic examination (20.08%) presented a more precise diagnosis compared to bacteriological culture (12.60%) and macroscopic evaluation of the lymph nodes (P < 0.05). Furthermore, there was a positive correlation rate between the bacteriological culture and histopathological study (r = 0.196, P = 0.006). The prescapular lymph node had the highest infection rate with 54 (1.70 ± 0.97) and supramammary lymph node had the lowest with two (0.07 ± 0.41) (P < 0.05). There was an increase in CLA detection with increasing age (P < 0.05), the mean age of animals with a positive CLA test were 2.92 years and in the oldest age group 31 (47%) cases had the highest infection.
TL;DR: It is demonstrated that F. glumosa has both antidiabetic and antioxidant effects on experimental model of diabetes in mice and validate its use in Nigerian traditional medicine for the treatment of diabetes.
Abstract: Ficus glumosa Del (Moraceae) commonly called “African rock fig” is a large tree indigenous to southern part of Nigeria. Its stem bark has been of interest to researchers because of its use in the treatment of various disease conditions in Nigerian traditional medicine. The present study was aimed at evaluating the antidiabetic and antioxidant properties of the methanol extract of F. glumosa stem bark using alloxan-induced diabetic mice. The extract, at the dose of 62.5, 125, and 250 mg/kg showed a remarkable time-dependent decrease in blood glucose level in alloxan-induced diabetic mice. There was no significant difference between the extract-treated groups and the groups treated with 10 mg/kg distilled water and glibenclamide (2 mg/kg) respectively. At 6-h post-treatment, the blood glucose level for the groups treated with 62.5 mg/kg of F. glumosa and glibenclamide (2 mg/kg), respectively, were lower than the normal blood glucose level respectively for the groups before the induction of diabetes. F. glumosa showed its optimum antioxidant activity in DPPH spectrophotometric assay at the concentration of 100 μg/ml. The ferric reducing antioxidant power showed a significant concentration dependent increase in the total antioxidant power. These findings demonstrate that F. glumosa has both antidiabetic and antioxidant effects on experimental model of diabetes in mice and validate its use in Nigerian traditional medicine for the treatment of diabetes. Even in its crude form, the effects, especially at 62.5 mg/kg, were comparable to that of glibenclamide, an oral sulfonylurea with proven antidiabetic activity. This finding suggests that the extract could be a potential source of a novel antidiabetic and antioxidant agent for the treatment of diabetes mellitus.
TL;DR: The equine insulin assay had good precision and recovery after dilution and addition, and a significant increase in mean insulin concentration was seen in horses after feeding.
Abstract: This study aims to evaluate a commercially available equine-optimized insulin assay and to evaluate the stability of equine insulin. In addition, serum insulin concentrations before and after feeding are also presented. Samples were taken before and after feeding from 40 healthy horses and from 15 equine patients visiting the University Equine Hospital. Insulin was analysed with the equine ELISA and with two human methods (one ELISA and one RIA). Precision was determined by repeated analysis of samples on one assay run and from one sample analysed on 15 different assays. Recovery from two dilution series and from an additional study was evaluated. Stability of equine insulin was evaluated in samples with and without haemolysis stored at 18–20°C, 6–8°C for 30 days and at −20°C for 1 year. The equine assay correlated well with both human assays (r
2 = 0.97 for both assays). The intra-assay coefficient of variance (CV) was 2.0–6.5%, and the inter-assay CV was 10.7%. Recovery upon dilution was 82–100%, and recovery upon addition was 102–115%. There was no significant decrease in insulin concentrations for non-haemolyzed samples when stored at 6–8°C for 30 days or at −20°C for 1 year. Mean insulin concentration was significantly higher (347 ng/L) after feeding compared with before feeding (123 ng/L). The equine assay correlated well with the previously used assays. The assay had good precision and recovery after dilution and addition. A significant increase in mean insulin concentration was seen in horses after feeding.
TL;DR: Results showed that like most probiotics, bioactive yeast at an appropriate level of inclusion had a significant beneficial effect on health status and growth rate of rabbit.
Abstract: Insufficient supply of animal protein is a major problem in developing countries including Nigeria. Rabbits are adjudged to be a convenient source of palatable and nutritious meat, high in protein, and contain low fat and cholesterol. A doe can produce more than 15 times her own weight in offspring in a year. However, its productivity may be limited by inadequate nutrition. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of probiotic (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) supplementation on growth performance and some hematological parameters of rabbit. The appropriate level of the probiotic inclusion for excellent health status and optimum productivity was also determined. A total of 40 male rabbits were randomly divided into four groups (A–D) of ten rabbits each. Each group was subdivided into two replicates of five rabbits each. They were fed pelleted grower mash ad libitum. The feed for groups A to C were supplemented with bioactive yeast (probiotic) at inclusion levels of 0.08, 0.12, and 0.16 g yeast/kg diet, respectively. Group D had no yeast (control). Daily feed intake was determined. The rabbits were weighed weekly. The packed cell volume (PCV), hemoglobin concentration, white blood cell total, and differential counts were determined at the 8th week, 16th week, and 22nd week following standard procedures. The three results which did not have any significant difference were pooled together. Group A which had 0.08 g yeast/kg of diet had a significantly lower (P ≤ 0.05) PCV than groups B (which had 0.12 g yeast/kg of diet) and C (which had 0.16 g yeast/kg of diet) as well as D (the control). Total WBC count for groups B and C (14.35 ± 0.100 × 103/μl and 14.65 ± 0.786 × 103/μl, respectively) were significantly higher (P ≤ 0.05) than groups A and D (6.33 ± 0.335 × 103/μl and 10.40 ± 0.296 × 103/μl, respectively). Also the absolute neutrophils and lymphocytes counts were significantly higher (P ≤ 0.05) in groups B and C than in groups A and D. Group B had significantly higher (P ≤ 0.05) weight gain (1.025 ± 0.006 kg/rabbit) followed by group A (0.950 ± 0.092 kg/rabbit). The control (group D) had the least weight gain of 0.623 ± 0.0.099 kg/rabbit. These results showed that like most probiotics, bioactive yeast at an appropriate level of inclusion had a significant beneficial effect on health status and growth rate of rabbit. Probiotic supplementation level of 0.12 g yeast/kg of diet was recommended for optimum rabbit production.
TL;DR: It is concluded that the administration of sublethal MP has significant toxic effect on fishes and these parameters could be effectively used as potential biomarkers of interest for MP toxicity to the freshwater fish in the field of environmental biomonitoring.
Abstract: The sublethal toxic potential of an organophosphorus pesticide, methyl parathion (MP), in altering certain haematological (Hb, Hct, RBC, WBC, mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean cell haemoglobin (MCH) and mean cell haemoglobin concentration (MCHC)) and biochemical (plasma protein and plasma glucose) parameters in an Indian major carp Catla catla was investigated under static conditions. The LC50 (96 h) of MP was found to be 0.09 ppm. Fish were exposed to sublethal concentration of MP (0.009 ppm) for a period of 35 days, and the alterations in haematological and biochemical parameters were analysed. A significant decrease was observed in values of haematological parameters like Hb, Hct, RBC and plasma protein throughout the exposure period. However, leucocyte count was gradually increased up to the 21st day and then recovered suddenly showing a significant decrease at the end of the 35th day. MCV and MCH indices showed a significant increase during the study period, whereas MCHC value was more or less similar to control group up to the 21st day, and then a significant decrease was observed in the remaining study period. Plasma glucose values increased up to the 28th day (13.37%) and then declined. The observations presented led us to conclude that the administration of sublethal MP has significant toxic effect on fishes. These parameters could be effectively used as potential biomarkers of interest for MP toxicity to the freshwater fish in the field of environmental biomonitoring.
TL;DR: There was sex wise difference in RBC count between males and females and there was significant difference in the mean value of protein and cholesterol content between male and females.
Abstract: The purpose of this study is to determine reference ranges for hematological and plasma chemistry of Psammophilus blanfordanus (Sauria: Agamidae) collected from their natural habitat. Blood samples were taken from coccygeal vein and lower abdominal vein of P. blanfordanus and different blood parameters were measured. Among the hematological parameters, there was sex wise difference in RBC count between males and females. Measurement of various types of blood cells was carried out with the help of a stage and an ocular micrometer. Erythrocytes were oval or elliptical shape both in male (length 15.375 ± 1.376 μm, breadth 10.75 ± 0.957 μm) and female (length 12.83 ± 3.083 μm, breadth 7.975 ± 2.206 μm) with centrally located oval nucleus (male: length 7.0 ± 0.816 μm, breadth 5.1 ± 0.115 μm; female: length 6.12 ± 0.853 μm, breadth 4 ± 0.816 μm). The WBCs was rounded, circular, or disk-shaped and the number of WBC in males was lower than females. The percentage of lymphocytes was higher in males and heterophils were lower in comparison with females but no differences in basophil, eosonophil, and monocyte counts in both the sexes during the study period. In addition, the content of hemoglobin percentage was higher in females than males. In terms of plasma chemistry, there was significant difference in the mean value of protein and cholesterol content between male (male, 98.264 ± 29.231and 7.455 ± 0.503 mg/ml; female, 49.448 ± 32.988 and 9.567 ± 4.363 mg/ml) and females.
TL;DR: A 3-year-old pregnant cow referred to a private clinic in the Dehloran suburbs in Iran with acute respiratory distress and appetite is diagnosed, and the species of leech was identified as L. nilotica.
Abstract: IntroductionLeeches, a hermaphroditic, blood-sucking parasite arerarely reported in humans and animals as a cause of manyproblems. They vary in color, length and shape, and may beblack, brightly colored, or mottled. The leeches mainlyinhabit in ponds, lakes, and streams. The Limnatis niloticaspecies is a blood-sucking parasite that lives in stagnantwater in ponds and lakes. The strong jaws and muscularsuckers at the anterior and posterior ends of L. nilotica arethe main sign for detection. This species is commonlyfound existing in Southern Europe, North Africa, and theMiddle East including Iran (Bahmani et al. 2006). Theseleeches live in hosts and can cause anemia and may act asvectors of animal pathogens. The main symptoms includehaemoptysis, snoring, dyspnea, cough, dysphagia, andbleeding from the vagina (Bani Ismail et al. 2007;Estambale et al. 1992; Grosser and Pesic 2006; Yaghmaee2000). Hirudiniasis is not common in animal and human,but sporadic reports of leech infestations in humans andanimals are available from the Middle East and adjoiningcountries. In some reports in human beings, leeches as aforeign body and parasite in the respiratory tract havebeen reported, and in animals, leeches infesting the nasalcavity were reported in one camel in Iraq (Al-Ani andAl-Shareefi1995; Cheikh-Rouhou et al. 2000). In this study,a 3-year-old pregnant cow referred to a private clinic in theDehloran suburbs in Iran with acute respiratory distress andinappetite.Case reportA 3-year-old pregnant cow referred to a private clinic in theDehloran suburbs in Iran with acute respiratory distress andinappetite. The history of the case revealed that the mainfeed of the cow had been hay and grazing in pasture, andfor drinking water, a stream and sump were used 48 hprevious to the time of referral; the cow displayed severediscomfort, with little appetite, abnormal breathing, andrespiratory sounds. The case had no background of anydisorder. Examination of the case showed increasingrespiratory rates, bleeding from the mouth, and reluctanceto walk.The temperature, heart rate, and respiratory rate wereincreased slowly. Rectal examination manifested noabnormal signs and the fetus palpated and was alive.The mouth of the cow was fully opened, and the mouthcavity was fully explored. One leech was found attachedto the right-side cheek and tongue (Fig. 1). The leecheswere removed by using forceps carefully without theprescription of any drugs, and after examination, thespecies of leech was identified asL. nilotica.Thestrongjaws and muscular suckers at the anterior and posteriorends, the dark-green color surface with rows of greenspots on the dorsal surface, and yellowish-orange anddark-green bands on either side with a 100-mm lengthwere the main signs for detection of L. nilotica species.Investigations revealed that the animal used to drink waterfrom a nearby pond that had rainwater. The owner of thepresent case was educated not to allow the other animalsto drink water from the infested pond.
TL;DR: In this article, the authors measured the serum lipids (triglyceride, cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and VLDL) in clinically healthy broilers, ostriches, cattle, and sheep (15 females and 15 males of each species).
Abstract: Serum lipids (triglyceride, cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and VLDL) were measured in clinically healthy broilers, ostriches, cattle, and sheep (15 females and 15 males of each species).The results were as follows: the mean±SD of triglyceride, cholesterol, HDL-C, LDL-C, and VLDL in broiler serum was 190 ± 82, 183 ± 46, 118 ± 24, 24 ± 8, and 38 ± 16 mg/dl; in ostrich serum 301 ± 90, 205 ± 78, 57 ± 25, and 87 ± 16 mg/dl; in cattle serum 39 ± 1 2, 92 ± 20, 67 ± 16, 16 ± 7, and 8 ± 2 mg/dl; and in sheep serum 32 ± 14, 97 ± 27, 49 ± 16, 42 ± 14, and 6 ± 3 mg/dl, respectively. The serum lipid values showed highly significant difference between broilers and ostriches compared with cattle and sheep (P 0.05). Considering the nutritional analysis of the meat from each species, according to results, there seems to be an inverse correlation between these factors in serum and meat.
TL;DR: This study showed that application of PCR to buffy coat samples gave a better estimate of the real rate of infection in asymptomatic dogs than DAT.
Abstract: In the past few years, the incidence of human visceral leishmaniasis (HVL) has increased in many districts of Fars Province, southwest of Iran, particularly, among communities of nomadic tribes. Recent epidemiological reports in Leishmania infantum endemic regions of Iran indicate that more than 50–70% of seropositive dogs are asymptomatic for Leishmania infection. Between 2004 and 2006, blood samples were collected from 110 domestic dogs from nomadic and rural areas. Each of these samples was tested for anti-Leishmania antibodies, in direct agglutination tests (DATs), and for L. infantum kinetoplast deoxyribonucleic acid (kDNA), in polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based assays. Of the 110 dogs, 5.5% (6/110) were found seropositive and 23% (25/110) PCR-positive. Four of the six seropositive (67%) and 22 of the 25 PCR-positive (88%) were asymptomatic. The rate of infection in dogs from nomadic communities was higher (27%) than dogs from rural areas (18%). Since positivity in the PCR-based assay indicated the presence of L. infantum amastigotes in the peripheral blood of 23% of the subjects, it is clear that these asymptomatic dogs (88%) are quite common in the study areas and probably act as reservoirs in the transmission of Leishmania parasites, to humans and to other dogs, by sandflies. Moreover, our study showed that application of PCR to buffy coat samples gave a better estimate of the real rate of infection in asymptomatic dogs than DAT.
TL;DR: The phenotypic and genetic characterization of the causative agent of human fasciolosis in the endemic area of Gilan province, Northern Iran is indicated and the first demonstration of the existence of F. hepatica in the Iranian population by a genetic approach is demonstrated.
Abstract: The two species of Fasciola hepatica and Fasciola gigantica are the causative agents of fasciolosis in domestic animals and humans. Based on the morphometric data, differential diagnosis between these flukes is problematic. In addition, intermediate forms of Fasciola have recently been found in the Northern Iran, based on morphometrical analysis. The aim of the present study was to indicate the phenotypic and genetic characterization of the causative agent of human fasciolosis in the endemic area of Gilan province, Northern Iran. Sequence analysis of ribosomal (ITS1) and mitochondrial (CO1 and ND1) genes were used for the genetic characterization of two fasciolid adult specimens directly obtained from humans. Comparison of the morphometric and sequencing data of the Iranian Fasciola samples obtained in the present study with those previously reported for F. hepatica, F. gigantica, and the “intermediate Fasciola” revealed that both of our human Fasciola samples represent F. hepatica. This is the first demonstration of the existence of F. hepatica in the Iranian population by a genetic approach. Also, the results of the present study showed the occurrence of a similar sequence polymorphism for CO1 and ND1 in both Iranian human F. hepatica isolates, which exhibit 100% identity in ITS1 and CO1, to those of F. hepatica previously reported from a Japanese man.
TL;DR: The best level of l-carnitine that advised for supplementation to the extended semen of Ross-308 chicken in order to improve the sperm motility and viability as well as reduce the morphological defect rates of spermatozoa up to 24 h during storage at 4°C was 2% (w/v).
Abstract: The aim of this research was to investigate the in vitro effects of l-carnitine on sperm quality. The semen was collected from 18 Ross-308 broiler breeder cocks and mixed together. The mixed semen was diluted with modified Ringer’s solution and supplemented with five treatment levels (0%, 0.5%, 1%, 2%, and 3% (w/v)) of l-carnitine. Treatments were evaluated for sperm quality (motility, viability, and morphological defect rates) at 0, 3, 6, 10, and 24 h after incubation at 4°C. At evaluation of spermatozoa immediately after semen collection, there were not significant differences among values of treatment groups. After incubating the semen for different hours, sperm motility and viability of the groups supplemented with l-carnitine were higher than that of the control group. Furthermore, morphological defect rates of spermatozoa in the groups supplemented with l-carnitine were lower than that in control group. The best level of l-carnitine that advised for supplementation to the extended semen of Ross-308 chicken in order to improve the sperm motility and viability as well as reduce the morphological defect rates of spermatozoa up to 24 h during storage at 4°C was 2% (w/v).
TL;DR: Results showed that wild pistachio oil can modulate hypothyroidism and its effects on serum lipid profile and leptin concentration were decreased due to unsaturated fatty acids.
Abstract: The aim of this study was to determine the administrative effects of wild pistachio oil in the diet on serum leptin, thyroid hormones, and lipid profile in female rats with experimentally induced hypothyroidism. Thirty healthy adult female Sprague–Dawley rats were selected and randomly allocated into five equal groups (n = 6/group). Blood samples were taken from the heart of each animal into Vacutainers before administration of propyl thiouracil (PTU) or wild pistachio oil. Female rats in the control group were fed a stock diet with fresh water. During the 30-day experimental period, all animals in the experimental groups had PTU (500 mg/l) added to their drinking water to induce hypothyroidism. Rats in experimental group 1 had PTU only, but experimental groups 2, 3, and 4 also had 5%, 10%, and 20% of wild pistachio oil in the diet, respectively. Following drug and oil administration, the rats were anaesthetized with ether and 2 ml of blood was taken from the heart at three different time points (days 10, 20, and 30). Determination of the serum concentration of thyroid hormones (T3, T4, fT3, and fT4), leptin, and serum lipid profile (cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL, and HDL) was carried out by standard routine procedures. In the present study, a significant decrease in the level of leptin was observed upon treatment with PTU. Although we observed an obvious decline in the serum leptin concentration of PTU-treated rats in the three experimental groups that received wild pistachio oil, the rate of decline decreased. During the present study, a significant increase in the serum concentration of total cholesterol, triglyceride, HDL, and LDL of hypothyroid rats was observed. Although we observed a marked overall increase in serum lipid profile concentration of the rats treated with PTU, in the three experimental groups that received wild pistachio oil, the increased rates of the lipid profiles were decreased due to unsaturated fatty acids. In conclusion, our results showed that wild pistachio oil can modulate hypothyroidism and its effects on serum lipid profile and leptin concentration.
TL;DR: A significant correlation between health status and haematochemical changes in sea turtles was obtained and one-way repeated-measures analysis of variance showed significant effects of the health status of sea turtles on albumin, creatinine, urea, aspartate aminotransferase and AST fluctuations.
Abstract: In reptiles, several studies show the correlation between good or poor health and changes of physiologic parameters, but the comparison among data, methods and biochemical analysis in sea turtles are difficult. This study was carried out to investigate the biochemical patterns of total protein, albumin, creatinine, urea, alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) in 100 loggerhead sea turtles (52 in good health, 16 with illness and 32 with serious illness). Blood samples were collected by venipuncture from the dorsal cervical sinus, the jugular vein or the ventral caudal sinus between March and October 2007 to 2009. Compared with subjects in good health, total protein and albumin concentrations were lower in subjects suffering from illness (p < 0.001) and in those with serious illness (p < 0.01). Compared with subjects with good health, creatinine concentrations (p < 0.001) and AST activity (p < 0.001) were lower in turtles with serious illness (p < 0.001), and urea concentrations were lower in subjects suffering from (p < 0.01). One-way repeated-measures analysis of variance showed significant effects of the health status of sea turtles on albumin (p < 0.05), urea (p < 0.001) and AST (p < 0.001) fluctuations. Data obtained showed a significant correlation between health status and haematochemical changes in sea turtles.
TL;DR: T ticks and blood samples from sheep examined suggest that R. sanguineus may be one of the main vectors of sheep anaplasmosis in the central part of Iran.
Abstract: Attached ticks and blood samples were collected from 150 sheep in Isfahan province, central part of Iran. Blood samples were analyzed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP). Of the 150 sheep examined, 50 (33.33%) were found positive for Anaplasma ovis by PCR-RFLP. Of 50 sheep naturally infected with A. ovis, 553 ixodid ticks were collected. The ticks were identified (three species belonging to two genera) as follows: Rhipicephalus sanguineus (53.9%), Hyalomma marginatum marginatum (27.5%), and Hyalomma anatolicum anatolicum (18.6%). All A. ovis-infected sheep were infested with R. sanguineus. This suggests that R. sanguineus may be one of the main vectors of sheep anaplasmosis in the central part of Iran.
TL;DR: Comparisons of the statistically analyzed data from the turtles revealed that erythroid parameters attained higher values in captive turtles, which suggested a positive influence of the rich and complete diet fed in captivity upon the hemopoietic process of the turtle.
Abstract: In order to establish baseline hematological and biochemical values in loggerhead turtles from the Mediterranean Sea, 84 specimens were sampled, comprising 24 wild turtles in good health at the time of capture and 60 turtles tested after indoor rehabilitation at the Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre of the Zoological Station Anton Dohrn in Naples, Italy. The following parameters were evaluated: red cell counts (RBC, 488–575 × 103/μL), white cell counts (WBC, 17–24 × 103/μL) and thrombocyte counts (TBC, 19–49 × 102/μL), hemoglobin (Hb, 8–14 g/dL), hematocrit (Ht, 23–34%), mean corpuscular volume (MCV, 487–723 fL), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH, 170–261 pg), mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC, 34–42%), white and red blood cell differential counts, and a panel of hematochemical tests, composed of glucose (97–164 mg/dL), cholesterol (74–144 mg/dL), blood urea nitrogen (35–200 mg/dL), uric acid (1–2.7 mg/dL), total bilirubin (0.20–0.40 mg/dL), GOT (44–184 IU/L) and GPT (6 IU/L) transaminases, calcium (6.7–8.7 mg/dL), and magnesium (3.6–5.4 mEq/L). Comparisons of the statistically analyzed data from the turtles which were divided into groups on the basis of age and/or lifestyle (wild or captive) revealed that erythroid parameters attained higher values in captive turtles. This suggested a positive influence of the rich and complete diet fed in captivity upon the hemopoietic process of the turtle. On the other hand, data suggest a more intense and active hemopoiesis in young turtles, compared to adult specimens.
TL;DR: Gross and microscopic appearances of lesions in the ovaries, salpinx, uterus, and cervix are described along with data on microbiological findings in affected organs.
Abstract: A study was made of the pathological and microbiological findings in the reproductive tract of 565 adult, barren female camels slaughtered in Saudi Arabia. The animals comprised 210 camels from the eastern, 180 camels from the central, and 175 camels from the western regions of the country. Gross and microscopic appearances of lesions in the ovaries, salpinx, uterus, and cervix are described along with data on microbiological findings in affected organs.