Showing papers in "Veterinarski Arhiv in 2011"

Changes in haematological and biochemical diagnostic parameters of Red Sokoto goats fed tannin-rich Pterocarpus erinaceus forage diets.

Abstract: A study was conducted to investigate the effects of feeding with a Pterocarpus erinaceus (PE) based diet on the haematological and biochemical diagnostic parameters to assess goat health. Twenty-fi ve Red Sokoto goats of about 5 months old were submitted to one of the fi ve diets containing two sole forage diets, 100% Andropogon gayanus (AG) and 100% PE and three mixed forage diets; 25% PE and 75% AG, 50% PE and 50% AG and 75% PE and 25% AG for 84 days in a completely randomized design. Packed cell volume, red blood cell, white blood cell, lymphocyte and monocyte counts were lower ((P<0.05) in goats fed the sole forage diet of PE than those fed the sole forage diet of AG and mixed forage diets, whereas other haematological parameters were similar among the diets. Serum urea levels varied among the diets; the rank order was: sole forage diet of AG > sole forage diet of PE > mixed forage diets (all P<0.05). Glucose levels were higher (P<0.05) in the mixed forage diets than the two sole forage diets, which were similar. Goats fed the sole diet of AG had lower (P<0.05) total protein and albumin levels than those fed other dietary treatments. Apart from the serum Mg level which was outstandingly affected and lower (P<0.05) in the sole diet of AG, other serum minerals were similar among the diets. Since all the studied blood parameters were within the normal range for healthy goats and there were no signs of tannin toxicity, it is concluded that a dietary tannin concentration of 60 g/kg and intake of 1.4 g/kg b.m.. did not pose any threat to the health of the animals under the conditions of the experiment.

The effects of oral administration of monosodium glutamate (msg) on the testicular morphology and cauda epididymal sperm reserves of young and adult male rats.

Abstract: The effects of oral administration of varied doses of monosodium glutamate (MSG) on the morphology of the testes and cauda epididymal sperm reserves of rats were studied using 28 four-week-old (young) male Sprague-Dawley rats and 28 twelve-week-old (adult) male Sprague-Dawley rats. Increasing doses (1 mg/g body mass, 2 mg/g body mass, and 4 mg/g body mass) of a 40% aqueous solution of monosodium glutamate were administered to the male Sprague-Dawley rats every 48 hours for 6 weeks, using a rat gavage needle. The results showed that age variation did not infl uence the effect of MSG on the parameters studied in male rats. There was a signifi cant reduction in the cauda epididymal sperm reserves (P<0.05) and the serum testosterone levels (P<0.05) of the rats that received monosodium glutamate relative to the control rats. The histomorphology of the testes of the rats that were given monosodium glutamate did not differ from those of the rats in the control group. No overt pathological lesions were seen in the testicular sections. These observations suggest that monosodium glutamate may have adversely affected spermatogenesis by disrupting the hypothalamic-pituitarytestis regulatory axis, and not through any direct toxic effect on the testis.

Impact of heat stress on egg quality in layer hens supplemented with l-ascorbic acid and dl-tocopherol acetate.

Abstract: The aim of the experiment was to investigate the effects of heat stress on egg quality profi le in layer hens supplemented with vitamins C and E. A total of 720 L33 layer hens at 39 weeks old, were divided into four groups of 180 birds. One group was fed a basal diet (control) and treatment groups were fed a basal diet supplemented with 150 mg of l-ascorbic acid/kg of diet (Vit. C group), 150 mg of α-dl-tocopherol acetate/kg of diet (Vit. E group), while the last group was supplemented with 150 mg of l-ascorbic acid/kg of diet plus 150 mg of α-dl-tocopherol acetate/kg of diet (Vit C + E group). Egg, albumen and eggshell weights were higher (P<0.05) and (P<0.005) in vitamins E and C + E groups when compared to vitamin C and control groups. Egg yolk was higher (P<0.05), (P<0.005) and (P<0.0005) in the vitamin C + E group, compared to the vitamin E and vitamin C treated groups and control respectively. Egg shell thickness, egg resistance and specifi c gravity showed (P<0.05) and (P<0.005) in the vitamins C + E group, compared to the vitamin C and E groups, and control. Haugh Unit was higher (P<0.05) and (P<0.005) in the vitamins C + E treated group compared to vitamin C and E treated groups, and control. The results suggest that the supplementation of antioxidant vitamins had a benefi cial effect on egg quality in heat stressed layer hens.

Hematological and serum biochemical changes in gilts experimentally infected with Trypanosoma brucei.

Abstract: The aim of this experiment was to study the hematological and serum biochemical changes in domestic cross breed female gilts infected with Trypanosoma brucei parasites. Twelve gilts were purchased from piggeries in Zaria Nigeria and housed in clean, fl y proof pens in two groups of six infected and six controls. The gilts in the infected group were inoculated with approximately 1.8 × 106 Trypanosoma brucei parasites. All the inoculated gilts developed clinical trypanosomosis after a prepatent period of three (3) days. Signifi cant differences (P<0.05) were observed in the mean values of Packed Cell Volume (PCV), total white blood cells and differential leukocytes count, serum proteins, aspartate amino transferase, creatine kinase, potassium, inorganic phosphates and calcium between the infected gilts and the controls. The implication of these fi ndings in the pathology of trypanosomosis in this species is discussed.

Prevalence of camel trypanosomosis and its vectors in Fentale district, South East Shoa Zone, Ethiopia.

Abstract: A cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the prevalence of camel trypanosomosis and assess the distribution and dynamics of the vectors responsible for transmission of the disease in fi ve localities of Fentale district from September 2008 to January 2009. Parasitological examination was conducted using the microhaematocrit centrifugation technique (MHCT) and examination of Giemsa stained blood smears. The only species of trypanosome identifi ed was Trypanosoma evansi with a prevalence of 4.7% by MHCT and 4.4% by blood smear. The prevalence was higher in male (6.8%) than female (4%) camels. With regard to age, calves (less than 2 years of age) were negative; the prevalence is high (7.7%) in young camels (between 3-4 years of age) and 4% in adult camels (older than 4 years of age). However, the difference in prevalence between sex and age groups was not statistically signifi cant (P>0.05). The prevalence using blood smears was found to be different between different localities; the highest being 7.8% for Kobo and the lowest 2% for Haro kersa. The mean packed cell volume (PCV) of Trypanosoma evansi positive camels (22.43%) was signifi cantly lower than that of negative camels (28.13%) (P<0.05). More than 99% of the biting fl ies captured from the study area were fl ies under the genus Stomoxys, while a few others such as Tabanus, Chrysops and Lyperosia were also captured. The highest fl y count was recorded in September whilst the lowest was recorded in December. The current fi ndings should not be generalized for all camel producing areas of the country or for all seasons in the same area. The prevalence of Trypanosoma evansi might be higher during the rainy season when the fl y population (Tabanus) is expected to be high. Therefore, detailed studies should be carried out involving different seasons and the relative importance of different vectors in transmission of the disease in different ecologies.

Study on birth weight and pre-weaning growth of Croatian multicolored goat kids.

Abstract: The aim of this research was to determine some production characteristics of Croatian multicolored goat kids (birth weight, age and body weight at weaning, and average daily gain) in extensive breeding conditions. The research included 530 goat kids from four family farms in the area of Sibenik – Knin and Zadar County. Birth weights and body weight of kids at weaning were determined by individual weighing by an electronic scale with accuracy of ± 0.05 kg. Kids were with goats from birth to weaning and they were consuming pasture and browse while consuming milk by suckling. The results of the research indicate that kids’ birth weights, their body weight at weaning and average daily gain are quite variable and under the influence of sex, type of birth and the season of kidding. After the parturition, kids weighed 2.28 kg in average, and 23.0 kg at weaning (on the 186th day). Kids were gaining daily 115.43 g in average in the period from birth to weaning, but in comparison to female kids, male kids had significantly (P<0.001) higher average daily gain (125.15 : 106.96 g) and significantly (P<0.05) higher body weight at weaning (23.46 : 22.58 kg). The lowest average daily gain (103.92 g) was determined in kids of low birth weight (< 1.50 kg), and the highest (163.04 g) in kids of higher birth weight (≥ 3.50 kg). A significant (P<0.001) influence of kidding season on birth weight and growth of kids from birth to weaning was determined.

Alterations in the osmotic fragility of camel and donkey erythrocytes caused by temperature, pH and blood storage.

Abstract: The present study examined the changes in the fragility of camel and donkey erythrocytes caused by variations in temperature, pH and blood storage. Although the fragility did not differ between sexes in both species, camel erythrocytes were more osmotically resistant than donkey erythrocytes. At a constant pH of 7.4, the fragility decreased in the camel but increased in the donkey at lowered temperatures. However, at a constant temperature of 28 oC, the fragility of camel and donkey erythrocytes increased in an acidic solution and decreased in an alkaline solution. Additionally, blood storage for 24 hours at 4 oC increased the fragility of camel erythrocytes, but not donkey erythrocytes. However, the erythrocyte fragility increased in both species after 48 or 72 hours of blood storage at 4 oC. In conclusion, our results suggest that variation in the temperature and pH of the erythrocyte environment and duration of blood storage may each play a signifi cant role in the osmotic behaviour of camel and donkey erythrocytes.

Hematological and biochemical reference intervals in Dalmatian pramenka sheep estimated from reduced sample size by bootstrap resampling.

Abstract: VOJTA, A., A. SHEK-VUGROVECKI, L. RADIN, M. EFENDIC, J. PEJAKOVIC, M. SIMPRAGA: Hematological and biochemical reference intervals in Dalmatian pramenka sheep estimated from reduced sample size by bootstrap resampling. Vet. arhiv 81, 25-33, 2011. ABSTRACT Monitoring of animal health status in organic farming relies in part on the availability of exact reference intervals for key hematological and biochemical blood parameters. Once determined, these intervals provide a baseline for interpreting routine laboratory blood tests in order to assess nutritional status, stress or disease. In this study, reference intervals for hematological and blood biochemical parameters were determined for Dalmatian pramenka, an indigenous Croatian sheep breed. A recently developed nonparametric method based on bootstrap resampling was used for calculation of reference intervals, and its performance was compared with that of a conventional nonparametric method. Hematological and blood biochemical profi les from 114 organically reared Dalmatian pramenka sheep were constructed and used for calculation of reference intervals using the new approach. The new method enabled convenient and reliable determination of reference intervals from a relatively small sample size, without the need for transformation or fi ltering of the raw data. Separate reference ranges for male and female sheep were found to be unnecessary for most of the investigated parameters.

Feral pigeon (Columba livia) population management in Ljubljana.

Abstract: Results and critical standpoints regarding the actions of the feral pigeon (Columba livia) population management in Ljubljana were studied. The objective of the study was to evaluate the effi ciency of the methods used to manage and control the feral pigeon population in Ljubljana. The effectiveness of progesterone, ultrasound deterrent and artifi cial dovecots for egg collection was tested in order to evaluate different approaches to feral pigeon population management in Ljubljana. The most effective method of pigeon control was the use of contraceptives, since the number of pigeons in selected locations of the wider centre of Ljubljana decreased by 49.1% (P>0.05) in the period from 1999 to 2004. The method of ultrasound as a pigeon deterrent remains questionable, since no distinctive deterrent effects were established, even though pigeons in our experiment showed signifi cant (P<0.001) signs of agitation when ultrasound was present in the tested area of the covered passage entrance to the urban landfi ll in Ljubljana. The method of pigeon nesting in 8 green plot and 2 house attic artifi cial dovecots, which we are investigating at present, seems to have great potential regarding the egg collecting and consequently the reduction of the number of feral pigeons, improving nesting hygiene and hobby feeding control. After a 10-month period, since the green plot dovecots were built, pigeons have already started to nest in 62% of the available nesting space, however eggs will not be collected until the dovecots are populated completely. The house attic dovecotes were only built recently, so they were still un-populated at the end of this study. We concluded that all the methods used may be only successful in the long term by implementing an integrated approach to pigeon control, specially supported by public information and education.

Comparison of blood serum macromineral concentrations in meat and dairy goats during puerperium.

Abstract: The goal of this research was to determine the breed, parity and litter size influence on macromineral levels during puerperium in Boer goats and crossbreeds of German Fawn-improved goats. Twenty Boer goats (8 primiparous and 12 pluriparous) and 10 crossbreeds of German Fawn-improved goats (5 primiparous and 5 pluriparous) between 2 and 6 years old were used in this research. Blood samples were taken every four days, starting on the third day until day 40th of puerperium. Potassium, magnesium, sodium and chloride serum concentrations were determined. These were within physiological ranges in Boer goats and in crossbreeds, without significant differences according to parity and the litter size. Boer goats had significant higher (P<0.05) calcium serum level in comparison to crossbreed of German Fawn-improved goats. Phosphorous levels were significantly higher in crossbreed (P<0.05) in comparison to Boer goats. Both production goat types had significantly higher (P<0.05) phosphorous level in primiparous in comparison to pluriparous goats. It was determined that German Fawn-improved goats had average serum calcium level 2.12 ± 0.05 mmol/L (primiparous) and 2.15 ± 0.05 mmol/L (pluriparous), that is below normal ranges (2.3 to 2.9 mmol/L) whereas Boer goat (meat breed), regardless of parity and the litter size, had significantly higher (P<0.05) levels of serum calcium 2.29 ± 0.04 to 2.38 ± 0.02 mmol/L. In our research, crossbred German Fawn-improved goats during puerperium suffered from moderate hypocalcemia.

Antimicrobial susceptibility of lactic acid bacteria isolated from fermented sausages and raw cheese.

Abstract: The aim of this study was to determine lactic acid bacteria from Croatian traditional sausages and raw cow’s cheese and to investigate their susceptibility/resistance to 23 antimicrobials. All isolates of Lactobacillus spp. and Leuconostoc spp. (n = 12) were susceptible to tetracycline, penicillin, bacitracin, chloramphenicol, cefalexin, linkomycin, erythromycin, ampicillin, spiramycin and amoxicillin, but resistant to vancomycin, nalidixic acid and metronidazole. Lactobacillus curvatus and Lactobacillus brevis 2 were resistant to nitrofurantoin and trimethoprim, Lactobacillus curvatus and Lactobacillus fermentum to oxacillin, while Lactobacillus brevis 1, Lactobacillus fermentum, Lactobacillus paracesei ssp. paracasei 1 and 2 to neomycin. Leuconostoc spp. showed resistance to streptomycin, enrofl oxacine, nitrofurantoin, sulphonamides, polymyxin B and oxacillin. These preliminary results indicate the need for further investigations of LAB populations to obtain relevant data in risk assessment related to traditional food products.

Histological and chemical characteristics of mechanically deboned meat of broiler chickens.

Abstract: In evaluation of the suitability of mechanically deboned poultry (MDP) for use in food products, the functional properties of this meat must be taken into consideration. The basic principle of meat separation varies among machines which in turn could affect the functional properties of the MDP produced. The MDP used in this study was produced from broiler carcass, back, wings and necks after commercial cutting. Separation was mechanically performed on a “Beehive” separator, which separates muscular, adipose tissue and skin from cartilage, bone and lymphatic tissues (“offal products”). Histological examination was performed on histological slides, stained with haematoxylin and eosin. Also, analysis of the content of water, lipid, protein, ash and calcium was carried out. Average water content was highest in deboned carcass meat samples (69.14%). Total lipids (20.85%) were highest in deboned back and total proteins (15.57%) in the deboned carcass. In deboned wings the content of total ash was very high (1.65%) as well as the content of calcium (0.29%). In “offal products” the highest average water content was in the whole carcass (59.02%). Total lipids (11.56%) were highest in wings, total proteins (23.88%), total ash (20.19%) and calcium content (7.41%) were highest in the back. Results of chemical analyses confi rmed the results of histological examination. This parallel histological and chemical analytic approach could give relevant insights into raw material content, which directly infl uences the quality

Asymmetrical functional activities of ovaries and tubular part of reproductive organs of dairy cows.

Abstract: The aim of this study was to compare the effect of postpartal activity of the left and the right side of reproductive organs on subsequent fertility in dairy cows, depending on the side of previous gestation, after deep intracornual semen deposition, strictly in cows with single ovulations. The semen was deposited in the horn ipsilateral to the ovary with preovulatory follicle. The effects were studied in 2300 cows of Holstein-Friesian breed, out of which 937 (40.74%) were in their fi rst lactation, 641 (27.87%) in their second, 417 (18.13%) in third and 305 (13.26%) in their fourth lactation. The fi rst manifested oestrus occurred spontaneously in 2099 (91.26%) cows, while it was induced with the GPG (Ovsynch) method in 201 (8.74%) cows. The relationship between the sides of the previous gestation and the result of conception depending on the side of the ovulating ovary were compared. Signifi cantly stronger right side activity of the reproductive organs was registered in the previous gestation: 1321 (57.43%) of pregnancies were in the right horn and 979 (42.57%) in the left horn. After the involution of the uterus, there was increased activity of the side opposite to the previous gestation, and mature follicles were found on the contralateral ovary in 1377 (59.87%) cows and on the ipsilateral ovary in 923 (40.13%) cows. The difference in the sides of ovulating ovaries was statistically signifi cant, meaning that ovulations are more frequent on the ovary contralateral to the postpartal horn. These results signifi cantly suggest that the bilateral asymmetry of reproductive organs has an infl uence on conception rates in dairy cows. The results also confi rm asymmetry in the function of the reproductive organs in dairy cows, due to differences in ovarian activity and probably even more because of physiological differences in the tubular part of the *Corresponding author: Prof. Dr. Darko Geres, Clinic for Obstetric and Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Heinzelova 55, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia, Phone: +385 1 2390 324; Fax: +385 1 2390 320; E-mail: darko.geres@vef.hr

Lesion scoring technique for assessing the virulence and pathogenicity of Indian field isolates of avian Eimeria species.

Abstract: Chicken coccidiosis caused by the genus Eimeria is a major health impediment causing high morbidity and mortality in commercial poultry. Assessment of the virulence and pathogenicity of Eimeria species are the vital factors for formulating effective control strategies. The gross lesion score was used in this study for assessing the virulence and pathogenicity of indigenous six Eimeria sp. in a controlled experimental trial using six groups of one hundred and twenty chicks of three weeks of age, inoculated with 2 × 10 2 to 2 × 103 numbers of oocysts of six species of Eimeria. While an extended prepatent period (2 6 hrs) was confi rmed in the majority of the species, the gross lesion scores were mostly within the low score of 1-2 compared to the international reference strains such as Houghton, so indicating possible natural attenuation of the fi eld isolates. The gross lesion scores (GLS) were assessed ranging from a scale of 0 (no gross lesion) to 4 (most severe lesion). This study seems to be the fi rst such attempt to standardize a lesion scoring technique for assessing the virulence and pathogenicity of indigenous isolates of Eimeria in the Indian sub-continent.

Immunosuppressive effect of combined citrinin and endosulfan toxicity in pregnant Wistar rats.

Abstract: 1Department of Veterinary Pathology, College of Veterinary Science, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana, India 2Division of Pathology, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, India 3High Security Animal Disease Laboratory, Bhopal, India 4Department of Veterinary Pathology, College of Veterinary Science, Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Palampur, India

Haematological and biochemical values of farmed red deer (Cervus elaphus).

Abstract: The objective of this study was to investigate the haematological and biochemical values of clinical signifi cance for red deer (Cervus elaphus) and provide data for farmed fawns. Blood samples were collected regularly from 34 fawns and compared with 11 adults. The mean blood haemoglobin (Hb), total erythrocyte count (RBC), packed cell volume (PCV), total leukocyte count (WBC) and percent of segmented neutrophils were signifi cantly lower in fawns. Red distribution width (RDW), total platelet count (PLT), plateletcryt (PCT) and percent of eosinophils and lymphocytes were signifi cantly higher in fawns. A vast majority of biochemical parameters were signifi cantly lower in fawns: blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine (CRE), total protein (tPROT), total bilirubine (tBIL) and glucose (GLU) concentration, as a aspartate-aminotransferase (AST) and creatin phosphokinase (CPK) activity, while albumine concentration (ALB), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) activity showed a signifi cant increase. These results demonstrate the need to use specifi c reference intervals for deer of different ages. The values reported here can be used as a starting point for reference range establishment for clinically healthy young farmed red deer in Croatia.

Haematological and biochemical parameters of West African Dwarf (WAD) bucks castrated by the Burdizzo method.

Abstract: OLAIFA, A. K., M. N. OPARA: Haematological and biochemical parameters of West African Dwarf (WAD) bucks castrated by the Burdizzo method. Vet. arhiv 81, 743-750, 2011. ABSTRACT The response to the closed method of bilateral castration using Burdizzo castrator was investigated in six West African Dwarf (WAD) goats at the Teaching and Research Farm, University of Ibadan, Nigeria for 4 weeks. Urea signifi cantly increased (P<0.05) from the fi rst week of experiment until the third when it decreased signifi cantly (P<0.05) and it was again elevated in the fi nal week of the study. Creatinine also increased signifi cantly (P<0.05), without further changes until the fourth week of the study. ALP decreased signifi cantly (P<0.05) from the fi rst to the third week of the study and thereafter increased signifi cantly. ALT did not change signifi cantly until the third week when it increased (P<0.05) and then decreased during the last week of the study. This was still higher than the value at pre-orchidectomy. Serum protein levels increased and decreased without signifi cant differences, but were later signifi cantly (P<0.05) elevated to the pre-castration level. Although the albumin fraction continued to decrease until the 3rd week, this was not signifi cant. A signifi cant increase (P<0.05) was then observed in the last week of the study. Globulin fraction decreased signifi cantly and remained so until the end of the study. The haematological values showed no signifi cant increase in PCV, Hb, RBC and other indices of measurement, but the WBC count showed a signifi cant increase (P<0.05) upon castration and remained elevated until the 4th week when it returned to within a normal range. This study showed that bloodless castration had a milder effect on serum profi les and might be a safer alternative to surgical castration in WAD goats, especially where protein defi ciencies or hepatocellular insuffi ciency exists.

Anti-trypanosomal and cytotoxic activity of ethanolic extracts of Psidium guajava leaves in Alamar Blue based assays.

Abstract: Ethanolic extracts prepared from the leaves of Psidium guajava were evaluated for anti-trypanosoma and cytotoxicity activity in the bloodstream species of Trypanosoma brucei brucei (BS427) and HEK293 in 384-well Alamar Blue assays respectively. Cytotoxicity activity in HEK293 cells was subsequently used to estimate the selectivity index of the extracts. The activities of the plant extracts were determined to evaluate if further chemical and biological profi ling may be warranted for potential development in early drug discovery for African Sleeping Sickness. Two trypanocides, pentamidine and diminazene, were employed as reference drugs, while puromycin was also included as control for general cell growth inhibition. The results show that the extracts inhibited growth of T. b. brucei with an IC50 of 6.3 姯mL and 48.9 姯mL for 80% and 20% ethanolic preparations respectively, with corresponding activity of less than 50% against HEK293 at the highest screening dose of 238.10 姯mL. The estimated selectivity index of the extracts compares favourably with pentamidine and diminazene. Meanwhile the reference compounds were found to have activities in agreement with published sensitivities at the doses screened. The lack of cytotoxicity at the doses screened and direct activity against T. b. brucei whole cells, make these extracts suitable candidates for further chemical elucidation and biological profi ling.

Changes in the cortisol and some biochemical patterns of pregnant and barren jennies (Equus asinus)

Abstract: Changes in cortisol and some biochemical values are likely to occur during pregnancy in different species, although homeostatic mechanisms function to keep substrates in the blood at comparatively constant concentrations. There are no complete data for this important endocrine and metabolic status in jennies. Since metabolic functions are increased during pregnancy to satisfy the demands of the foetus, the placenta and the uterus, the purpose of the present study was to determine which physiological changes occur in plasma cortisol and total protein, creatinine, urea, metabolism in pregnant jennies and hence to compare these fi ndings with those of barren jennies. The study was carried out in 24 healthy Ragusano jennies (10 pregnant and 14 barren). Blood samples were collected monthly from the jugular vein of pregnant and barren jennies in one year. As compared to barren jennies, pregnant jennies showed lower cortisol (P<0.05) and urea (P<0.05) values and higher creatinine (P<0.01) values. Total protein values and AST and ALT activities showed a similar pattern both in pregnant and in barren jennies, and did not differ signifi cantly. The existence of signifi cant differences in cortisol, creatinine and urea concentrations between pregnant and barren jennies showed the relevant involvement of the physiological state on the endocrine and biochemical homeostasis. These fi ndings were confi rmed by positive and signifi cant correlations between cortisol and biochemical parameters.

Innovative tube cystostomy for the management of bovine clinical cases of obstructive urolithiasis.

Abstract: The present study was carried out to evaluate a simple innovative tube cystostomy technique for the management of bovine clinical cases of obstructive urolithiais. The materials of this study formed 20 clinical cases of obstructive urolithiasis, equally and randomly distributed in two groups. Diagnosis of the disease was made on the basis of a history of anuria, clinical signs, radiographic and ultrasonographic examinations. The confi rmed cases of obstructive urolithiasis were managed by two surgical techniques, i.e., tube cystostomy with Foley's catheter (group A) and tube cystostomy with simple polyvinyl chloride catheter tubing (group B). In all the animals litholytic agents, anti-infl ammatory drugs and antibiotics, along with urine acidifi ers, were given. The surgical techniques were evaluated on the basis of clinical, haematobiochemical parameters, and postoperative surgical complications. Duration of surgery and overall success rate were also recorded in each group. Haematobiochemical alterations returned to normalcy more quickly in the animals of group A as compared to those of group B. The survival rate was similar in the animals of both the groups; however complications like catheter blockade were found more often in group A animals. Tube cystostomy with polyvinyl chloride tubing may be a feasible method for the management of obstructive urolithiasis in fi eld conditions. It needs more refi nement and further evaluation before its recommendation for in fi eld use.

In vitro biofilm activity of Candida species isolated from Anatolian buffaloes with mastitis in Western Turkey.

Abstract: In the present study, identifi cation of 66 Candida isolates obtained from mastitic Anatolian buffalo quarter milk samples was achieved using the API 20 C AUX system. Among the isolates, the most common species were Candida krusei (27.3%), followed by Candida rugosa (16.7%), Candida kefyr (12.1%) and Candida tropicalis (10.6%). The other species were detected as Candida albicans (9.1%), Candida zeylanoides (6.1%), Candida parapsilosis (6.1%), Candida guilliermondii (4.5%), Candida famata (3.0%), Candida glabrata (3.0%) and Candida ciferrii (1.5%). A total of 53 (80.3%) Candida isolates produced the biofi lm. All C. krusei, C. tropicalis, C. parapsilosis and C. guilliermondii strains were determined as biofi lm positive. However, C. ciferrii did not produce any biofi lm. This is the fi rst study to investigate in vitro biofi lm activity of different Candida species isolated from Anatolian buffalo mastitic milk in Turkey. We consider that this study may be a helpful tool for future research into mastitis caused by Candida species.

Molecular detection of Trypanosoma evansi in cattle from Quirino Province, Philippines.

Abstract: Trypanosoma evansi is a protozoan parasite which ubiquitously infects livestock in the Philippines. The study depicts an initial report of livestock trypanosomes in cattle from the province of Quirino, Philippines using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method. Out of 246 fi eld blood samples from apparently healthy cattle collected from fi ve municipalities of Quirino Province, Philippines, 3/246 (1.22%) were established positive for T. evansi using PCR. The positive animals identifi ed were from the municipality of Saguday (3/42; 7.14% prevalence). These were composed of one female and two males species and belonged to variable age groups (1.1-2 yrs, 2.1-3 yrs and >3 yrs). In addition, the data on the physical examination of the sampled animals using the nine-point scale body condition scoring system showed that the top three body condition scores (BCS) were 3[Very thin, (107/246; 43.50%)], 4[Thin, (75/246; 30.50%)] and 2[Emaciated, (46/246; 18.70%)]. Furthermore, the data showed that majority of the animals in Diffun and Saguday were thin (BCS 4) while most of the animals in Cabarroguis and Maddela and Aglipay were classifi ed under BCS 3(Very thin) and BCS 2(Emaciated) respectively. Consequently, all the Trypanosoma evansi positive animals appeared thin (BCS= 4) and were from the municipality of Saguday. No parasites were observed after blood parasite examination (BPE). The study provides information on the fi rst report of T. evansi cases in cattle from Quirino Province located in Region 2 of the Philippines. Consequently the data also presents the fi rst molecular detection of T. evansi infection in cattle in the province of Quirino, Philippines.

Mitochondrial DNA control region as a tool for species identification and distinction between wolves and dogs from Croatia.

Abstract: Dogs worldwide share a single genetic origin from Asian wolves. While dog and wolf lineages are diffi cult to separate in terms of nuclear genes, mitochondrial lineages are clearly distinguishable for the two species, offering a good opportunity to evaluate the differences between them. Species identifi cation from DNA is an important tool for wolf conservation in Croatia, and wolf dog differentiation is necessary for forensic cases, wildlife management and scientifi c research. The goal of this paper was to provide a data set on Croatian dog and wolf mitochondrial DNA control region sequences, and to research if these sequences can be used as a reference for species identifi cation. We analyzed 281 base pair sequences of the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) control region of 20 mixed breed dog blood samples, 91 grey wolf muscle samples and two muscle samples of wolf-like animals. We identifi ed 12 dog and 4 wolf mtDNA control region haplotypes. None of the haplotypes were shared, confi rming that mtDNA control region haplotypes can be used to discriminate between Croatian wolves and dogs, and to confi rm the maternal ancestry of putative hybrids. The sequences of the two wolf-like animals clearly grouped into a dog cluster.

Histopathological evaluation and immunohistochemical study of estrogen receptor α, HER-2 and Ki-67 in canine neoplastic mammary lesions.

Abstract: The frequency of different types of mammary lesions and their relationship with histologic grade was investigated. One hundred and forty-six mammary lesions were classifi ed according to the World Health Organization (WHO) criteria. Selected lesions (51 malignant and 24 benign) were investigated to determine the immunohistochemical expression of estrogen receptor alpha (ERα), HER-2 and Ki-67 and their relationship with tumor factors. The most common breeds affected were cross breeds, poodles, cocker spaniels and German shepherds and the median age of tumor diagnosis was 10 years (range 4 15 years of age). Classifi cation of all canine mammary gland lesions revealed 110 (75.3%) malignant and 36 (24.7%) benign tumors. ERα was expressed by 9/24 (37.5%) benign and 9/51 (17.6%) malignant tumors. HER-2 protein was detected in 5/51 (9.8%) malignant tumors but none in the 24 benign tumors. The Ki-67 index was higher in malignant (mean 29.5) than benign (mean 9.1) tumors (P<0.001) and signifi cantly higher in anaplastic carcinomas than tubulopapillary carcinomas (P<0.05).

Clinical evaluation of the sedative properties of acepromazine xylazine combinations with or without atropine and their effects on physiologic values in dogs.

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to clinically evaluate the sedative effects of different doses of acepromazinexylazine combinations with or without atropine in dogs. One hundred and twenty dogs of various breeds and both sexes were used in a prospective randomized, blinded clinical study. Dogs, presented to the Veterinary Clinic for various diagnostic and surgical procedures, were randomly divided into four groups (n=30/group) and received the following drug combinations intramuscularly: Group AX: acepromazine (0.05 mg kg-1) + Xylazine (0.5 mg kg-1), Group AXA: Acepromazine (0.05 mg kg-1) + Xylazine (0.5 mg kg-1) + Atropine (0.04 mg kg-1) Group LA-HX: Acepromazine (Low dose: 0.03 mg kg-1) + Xylazine (High dose: 0.8 mg kg-1), Group HA-LX: Acepromazine (High dose: 0.08 mg kg-1) + Xylazine (Low dose: 0.3 mg kg-1). Heart and respiratory rates, electrocardiogram and rectal temperature were recorded before drug injection (baseline) and during maximum sedation. Sedation was scored using descriptive categories. Heart rate signifi cantly decreased from the baseline following sedation in the AX, LA-HX and HA-LX groups. A signifi cant reduction in respiratory rate was observed in all treatment groups. The median sedation score did not differ signifi cantly between the groups; however, the quality of sedation was enhanced when atropine was added to the acepromazine-xylazine combination and a higher number of dogs were assigned score 3 in AXA group. No adverse effects were recorded during the study. The acepromazine-xylazine combination, particularly with atropine, can be used effectively for sedation and premedication before general anaesthesia in healthy dogs.

Unilateral segmental aplasia of the uterine horn in a gravid bitch - a case report.

Abstract: A 1.5-year-old mongrel bitch was presented at the Clinic for obstetrics and reproduction at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine in Zagreb for spaying. Since the animal had been found and kept in animal shelter, no anamnestic data about her reproductive status were known. A general examination did not reveal any preoperative problem. On ultrasonograph it was found that bitch was about four weeks pregnant. Finally, and with the owner’s consent, ovariohysterectomy was proposed and accepted as a radical alternative to medical abortion following an unwanted pregnancy, as it also involves defi nitive sterilization. The surgical procedure comprising ovariohisterectomy was performed under general endotracheal anesthesia. The procedure revealed segmental aplasia of the left uterine horn with an intact left ovary and kidney.

Subcutaneous xanthoma in a cockatiel (Nymphicus hollandicus) - a case report

Abstract: Subcutaneous tumor in a 17-year-old female cockatiel is described. The yellowish, elliptic tumor measuring 4×3 cm was noticed by the owner of this bird, on the right side of the cloaca. The skin was damaged and the wound was bleeding. After the clinical examination, surgical removal of the tumor was suggested. Histopathological examination revealed the presence of a xanthoma. In a period of one year, neither the reoccurrence of the skin xanthoma nor any health problems were observed.

Prevalence of hip dysplasia in dogs according to official radiographic screening in Croatia

Abstract: The subject of this study was to detect the prevalence of hip dysplasia according to offi cial radiographic screening between 2001 and 2009. The overall number of dogs tested for HD was 5381, belonging to 137 breeds. In 2001 the number of dogs evaluated was 403, and in 2009 this number rose to 856, which is an increase of 212.40%. In 2001 the number of breeds evaluated was 48, and in 2007 this number rose to 79 breeds, which is an increase of 164.58%. In the overall sample there were 2125 (39.5%) males and 3256 (60.5%) females. The mean age was around 24 months. According to the FCI scale, C, D and E grades are interpreted as dysplastic hips. In our sample 4372 (81.25% ) dogs were found to be free of dysplasia (A, B), while HD was found in 1009 (18.75%) dogs. In the period between 2001 and 2009 there was a visible trend of a reduction in the number of dogs with dysplasia. There was a signifi cant difference (P<0.05) between 2001 on the one hand and 2005 and 2006 on the other. In 2001 there were 27.79% of dogs with dysplasia, while in 2005 this number fell to 14.81% and in 2006 to 14.51%. There was no statistical signifi cance in the prevalence of HD in males and in females (P=0.20). The difference in age, however, was signifi cant, and dogs with dysplasia were older on average (P<0.05). The results of our study show that the programme of selection on the basis of radiography of hips should be continued in order to improve the quality of purebred dog breeds in Croatia.