The present study was aimed to investigate the epidemic situation of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) in Egypt from 2016 to 2018 based on the detection of FMD virus (FMDV) in carrier or previously infected animals, by determination of antibodies against non-structural protein (NSP), implementation a pilot study on circulating FMDV serotypes and assure the efficacy of locally produced inactivated trivalent vaccine. A total of 1500 sera were collected from apparent healthy vaccinated cattle and buffaloes from three Egyptian geographical sectors, representing ten governorates. Determination of FMD antibodies against NSP was carried out using 3ABC enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) test. Serotyping of the circulating FMDV and assure the vaccine efficacy was performed using solid-phase competitive ELISA. The 3ABC ELISA test revealed 26.4% and 23.7% positive for FMDV-NSP antibodies in cattle and buffalo sera, respectively. The highest positivity was in Delta Sector among both cattle 42.3% and buffaloes 28.8%. Serotyping of FMDV-positive NSP sera in El-Qalyubia Governorate for the circulating FMDV serotypes O, A, and Southern African Territories (SAT) 2 was 52.2%, 17.4%, and 30.4% in cattle and 31.8%, 27.3%, and 40.9% in buffaloes, respectively. The overall protection level due to the vaccination program was 62.1 and 60.9% in cattle and buffaloes, respectively, while the protective level of the FMDV serotypes O, A, and SAT2 included in the inactivated trivalent vaccine was 73.9, 84.6, and 63.8% in cattle and 72.3, 82.3, and 63.5% in buffaloes, respectively. The present study recommended full determination for the immunogenic relationship between the vaccine strains and the field strains to attain maximum protection against the circulating viruses. Keywords: 3ABC enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay test, Egypt, foot-and-mouth disease virus, non-structural protein, solid-phase competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

Ciguatera fish poisoning (CFP) is the most common form of seafood toxicosis reported in humans worldwide. Dogs and cats are also susceptible to CFP, but there is little published and much unknown about the condition in these species. This study aimed to document the demographics of canine and feline cases of CFP, to examine the temporal and spatial distribution of cases, and to compare the incidence of animal and human CFP in the Cook Islands. Six years of medical records from the Esther Honey Foundation Animal Clinic (the only veterinary clinic in the Cook Islands during the study period) were reviewed to identify cases of CFP. The study variables included the date of presentation, species, age, sex, neutering status, and village/locality. A total of 246 cases of CFP were identified, comprising 165 dogs and 81 cats. The sexes were equally represented; however, within each sex, entire animals outnumbered those that had been desexed. Cases occurred year-round, with slightly higher numbers recorded in spring. Annual case numbers trended downward over the study period. Cases were documented in all regions of Rarotonga and also one outer island (Aitutaki). Fewer cases were seen in areas with a narrow (<200 m) fringing lagoon, compared with a wide (>400 m) lagoon. This study documented epidemiologic patterns of canine and feline CFP cases for the first time. Based on the results, further investigation is warranted to establish whether desexing has a protective effect against CFP. Keywords: cats, ciguatera, Cook Islands, demographics, dogs, epidemiology.

Goat is considered very important ruminant animals that are raised in Jordan; however, the production of the local breeds is low to moderate, and thus, some genetic improvement programs could have a positive effect on the performance of the local breeds. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of crossing Baladi (BB) goat with Shami. A total of 30 newly weaned goat kids (15 BB and 15 Shami-Baladi [SB] kids) were evaluated for growth performance and carcass traits. The trial lasted for 77 days (7 days for adaptation and 70 days for data collection). Feed intake was measured on a daily basis; body weight of kids was measured at the beginning of the study and biweekly thereafter. At the end of the trial, kids were slaughtered to examine carcass traits. Dry matter intake, initial weight, final weight, and average daily gain (ADG) were not affected by kid's breed type. In addition, breed type of kids showed no significant effect on feed efficiency (feed:gain). Hot and cold carcass weight and dressing percentage were also not affected by kid's breed type. Kid breed type had no significant effect on shoulder, rack, and legs percentages. However, SB kids had a higher loin cut percentage compared to BB kids. In addition, Musculus longissimus depth was higher for SB kids. Results of this study indicate that crossing SB goat breeds did not have a significant effect on either growth performance or carcass traits. Further studies using reciprocal cross may reveal different results. Keywords: crossbred, goat, Shami.

A longitudinal study was conducted to assess the epidemiology of common gastrointestinal parasite (GIP) infections affecting goats in South Africa as influenced by agro-ecological zone (AEZ), sampling season, and the age and sex of animals. A total of 288 goats (101 male and 187 female) were randomly sampled during winter and summer in areas representing four AEZs (arid: 80; semi-arid: 76; humid: 62; and dry sub-humid: 70) of South Africa. Fecal samples from each animal were collected from the rectum, and the presence of GIP eggs was determined using a modified McMaster technique. A sample was considered positive when a minimum of one GIP egg was detected under the microscope. Fecal cultures were prepared, and infective larvae were collected and identified. The data were analyzed by MiniTab17 (2017) using the FREQ procedure, and the association between the independent factors and the prevalence of various GIPs were evaluated using the Pearson Chi-square test (p<0.05). The overall prevalence of GIP in the present study was 37.1%, with a mean prevalence of 30.0, 26.4, 31.1, 36.6, and 59.6% for Eimeria spp., Trichuris, Strongyloides papillosus, Moniezia spp., and strongyles, respectively. There was a significant (p<0.05) association between the prevalence of strongyles, Trichuris, Moniezia spp., and AEZs, whereas an insignificant (p>0.05) association was observed for the prevalence of Eimeria spp. and S. papillosus. A significant (p<0.05) association between goat age and prevalence of all GIPs was observed, where the prevalence was higher in young goats, followed by adults, and then by suckling goats. The prevalence of various GIPs was similar between male and female goats. The percentage of infection with Eimeria spp., Trichuris, S. papillosus, and strongyle parasitic infections was marginally higher in males than in females, whereas that of the Moniezia spp. was higher in females. A significant (p<0.05) association between the prevalence of Eimeria spp. and sampling season was observed, and there was an insignificant (p>0.05) association between the other GIPs and sampling season. The prevalence of Eimeria spp. infection was higher in winter (34.0%) than in summer (26.0%). AEZs and goat age are the most important risk factors influencing GIP infections in South African communal goats. These epidemiological parameters are important for outlining effective parasite control management systems against these GIPs in goats. Keywords: Eimeria, Moniezia, strongyle, Strongyloides papillosus, Trichuris spp.

Newcastle disease virus (NDV) remains a major viral disease of poultry. The morbidity and mortality rates of chickens vaccinated with NDV in broiler farms in Diyala Province were 100% and 80%, respectively, rates due to suspected infection with the highly virulent NDV. The present study aimed to isolate and identify the NDV virus and evaluate its pathogenicity in infected broiler chickens at poultry farms. Broiler chickens at two commercial poultry farms were suspected of being infected with virulent NDV due to high mortality rates. Virus isolated from samples of intestinal tissues, lungs, trachea, spleen, kidneys, and air sacs was adapted in the allantoic cavity of embryonated specific-pathogen-free (SPF) chicken eggs. The NDV pathotype was determined based on the mean death time (MDT) in eggs as well as the intracerebral pathogenicity index (ICPI) and intravenous pathogenicity index pathogenicity indexes of the isolated samples. Broilers were experimentally infected by inoculation with fluids collected from the allantoic cavities of 60 broilers aged 35 days. Serological and molecular tests were followed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay to determine levels of anti-NDV immunoglobulin G, and isolates were identified using a hyperimmune (HI) test and real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Suspected and isolated NDV field samples propagated in the allantoic cavity of 10-day-old fertile SPF chickens were NDV positive in the rapid hemagglutination test within a few seconds. Pathogenicity indices and MDT showed that the isolated NDV was viscerotropic and velogenic. The virus was identified as NDV by the HI test using specific anti-LaSota HI serum and RT-PCR with specific primers and probes. Propagation of the virus in the allantoic cavity of embryonated hen eggs produced a viral titer of 109.5 EID50/0.1 mL. The virus isolated from broiler chicken farms in Diyala Province, Iraq, was viscerotropic and velogenic according to the pathogenicity indices and RT-PCR. The isolated NDV caused 100% morbidity and 90% mortality in NDV-vaccinated and experimentally infected broiler chickens. Keywords: Diyala Province, Newcastle disease virus, pathogenicity, real-time polymerase chain reaction.

Pediculus humanus capitis has been prevalent throughout the world, especially in developing countries among elementary students and societies with a weak socio-economic status. This study aimed to forecast head lice (Pediculidae: P. capitis) infestation incidence hotspots based on spatial correlation analysis in Ardabil Province, Northwest Iran. In this retrospective analytical study, all cases of head lice infestations who were confirmed by Centers for Disease Control office have been studied from 2016 to 2018. Head lice infestation incidence hotspots in the province should be detected based on general G statistics in ArcMap GIS10.4.1. Furthermore, MaxEnt.3.3.3 model was used for modeling the high-risk areas. The prevalence rate of pediculosis was 14.90/100,000 populations. The general G statistics revealed that the head lice infestation in this study area has a high cluster pattern. The analysis showed that the Parsabad and Germi counties were identified as a head lice infestation incidence hotspots. Statistical and spatial analyses of head lice infestation incidence showed a significant positive correlation with head lice infestation incidence hotspots and the altitudes (15-500 m), annual temperature range (14-16.5°C), and slope and average diurnal temperature (12-18°C). The results of this study showed that the most ecologically suitable areas of head lice occurrence were identified in two hotspots (Parsabad and Germi) in the Northern areas of Ardabil Province (Parsabad and Germi counties); in the borderline of Iran and the Republic of Azerbaijan. Keywords: head lice infestation, Iran, Pediculus humanus capitis, spatial analysis.

The present study was conducted to investigate the efficacy of different doses of Bangkal (Nauclea subdita) leaf extract on hematological and histological changes in kidney and liver of catfish (Pangasius hypophthalmus) infected by Aeromonas hydrophila. Catfish were experimentally infected with A. hydrophila at a dose of 108 cells/mL through intraperitoneal injection, and the hematological and histological changes in the kidney and liver of catfish against the pathogen were observed. Not all concentrations of N. subdita caused a toxic effect in striped catfish. The clinical symptoms of catfish after infection with A. hydrophila and treatment with N. subdita leaf extract included morphological and behavioral changes. N. subdita leaf extract reduced mortality caused by A. hydrophila. Treatment with N. subdita leaf extract was effective in reducing the inflammation by decreasing the activity of neutrophils, monocytes, and lymphocytes. The Hb and Ht levels of catfish significantly decreased after exposure to 108 cells/mL of A. hydrophila and increased significantly after N. subdita treatment. Necrosis percentages in the kidney and liver also decrease after N. subdita treatment. The results indicate that N. subdita leaf extract stimulates the immunity and increases the resistance of catfish to A. hydrophila. N. subdita leaf extract may be used as a potential source for future drug development and food applications. Keywords: Aeromonas hydrophila, hematology, histopathology, Nauclea subdita.

The cosmopolite protozoan, Toxoplasma gondii, has a significant economic and medical impact. Cats traditionally play a predominant role in the disease maintenance cycle; however, humans can be infected as a result of milk and meat consumption of Toxoplasma-infected livestock. In addition, infected pregnant women, even symptomless, can pass the disease to their unborn fetus. The limited clinical records and absence of specific national educational programs in countries like Egypt underscore the need for periodic toxoplasmosis disease evaluation. Here, we identified T. gondii seroprevalence among sheep and pregnant women and the associated risk factors in El-Minya Governorate, Egypt. Using peripheral blood, we detected T. gondii-specific antibodies in 151 sheep and 96 pregnant women sera from El-Minya Governorate using latex agglutination and indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The impact of different environmental and behavioral risk factors identified with in-person interviews and serology results on acquiring toxoplasmosis was statistically analyzed. The overall toxoplasmosis seroprevalence was 39.1% and 22.9% in sheep and pregnant women, respectively. Significantly higher seroprevalence was correlated with increasing sheep age and geographical location. Nonetheless, no statistical significance was found based on abortion history and pregnancy status of the examined sheep. Exposure factors important for pregnant women included pregnancy trimester, contact with cats, and the habit of eating undercooked sheep meat, which all had a statistically significant association with Toxoplasma seropositivity. The current study confirms increased antibodies against toxoplasmosis in both sheep and pregnant women in El-Minya Governorate and a clear association between women's age, contact with cats, and the habit of eating undercooked sheep meat and seroreactivity to T. gondii. These results strongly suggest the need for a more comprehensive epidemiological study and public health awareness education for toxoplasmosis. Keywords: abortion, Egypt, risk factors, sheep, toxoplasmosis, zoonoses.

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of discriminate and indiscriminate use of oxytetracycline on hematological parameters, residual status in soft tissue of broiler and of thermal effect on oxytetracycline residual status. Eighteen, day-old male broiler chickens were purchased and were divided into three different groups (control group, discriminate group, and indiscriminate group). The control group received no antibiotics. The discriminate group received oxytetracycline 1 g/L drinking water for 5 consecutive days, and 10 days' withdrawal period was maintained before sacrifice. The indiscriminate group received oxytetracycline 1 g/L drinking water till the sacrificed day. Blood samples were collected before sacrificing for hematological analysis. After sacrificing liver, kidney, spleen, and muscle samples were collected for analysis of oxytetracycline residues in raw soft tissues. Since meat is used to cook by traditional method in Bangladesh before consumption that is why positive meat samples were cooked by traditional cooking method to evaluate the thermal effect on oxytetracycline residual status as well. Thin-layer chromatography (TLC) was done for screening of oxytetracycline residues in soft tissues. Mean differences of total erythrocyte count (million/mm3), hemoglobin estimation (gm%), and packed cell volume (%) estimation were not statistically significant among the groups. TLC analysis of raw samples showed 100% positive results of all samples collected from the indiscriminate group. In contrast, samples collected from the discriminate group were negative for oxytetracycline residues. In the control group, all samples were negative for oxytetracycline residue. There was a significant (p<0.05) relationship of oxytetracycline residues among three different groups for liver, kidney, spleen, and muscle samples. Positive liver and muscle samples from the indiscriminate group were subjected to thermal treatment by traditional cooking method of Bangladesh. Oxytetracycline residues had found in cooked meat, liver, and juice part, suggesting that antibiotic residues disseminated to juice part from flesh part after cooking. Evidence suggests that proper maintenance of withdrawal period would minimize oxytetracycline residues in broiler soft tissues, whereas antibiotics retained in soft tissues of broiler in case of indiscriminate use. Traditional cooking does not change oxytetracycline residual status in edible tissues. Therefore, awareness regarding the proper maintenance of withdrawal period after antibiotic treatment of broiler is one of the best strategies which may positively reduce the risk of antimicrobial drugs residue in meat. Keywords: antibiotic residue, broiler edible tissues, oxytetracycline, thermal effect, thin-layer chromatography.

One of the most common cutaneous infections seen in veterinary canine practice is canine demodicosis. Demodicosis is a parasitic skin infection with a possible impact on acute-phase proteins (APPs) and oxidant-antioxidant balance. This study aimed to estimate the possible alterations in hematological, biochemical, oxidant-antioxidant, and APP (C-reactive protein [CRP] and albumin) profiles in naturally infected dogs with demodicosis. This study enrolled 21 dogs that were divided into two groups: The control group including 7 apparently healthy dogs and the diseased group including 14 dogs with generalized demodicosis. Demodicosis was confirmed through microscopic detection. Blood samples were collected for the estimation of CBC, total protein, albumin, alanine transaminase, aspartate aminotransferase, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), catalase (CAT), malondialdehyde (MDA), and CRP levels. Significant reduction in red blood cells along with significant elevation in white blood cells was recorded in the diseased group compared with the control group. There was also significant elevation in MDA, TAC, SOD, and CRP levels along with significant reduction in GSH-Px and CAT levels in the diseased group. Based on these findings, a relationship between canine generalized demodicosis and oxidant-antioxidant disequilibrium could be suggested. Evidence of this relation manifested in the elevation in MDA and SOD levels and reduction in GPx and CAT levels as a consequence to the release of ROS resulting from Demodex infection. CRP elevation is expected in canine demodicosis. Keywords: antioxidant enzymes, canine generalized demodicosis, C-reactive protein, malondialdehyde, total antioxidant capacity.

This study examined the impact of dietary fortification with rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) and/or basil (Ocimum basilicum) leaves powder on glycemic status of dogs. Forty-five Rottweiler dogs were assigned to five experimental groups and fed an experimentally processed extruded basal diet that was either fortified or not fortified. G1 was fed the basal diet without any fortification (negative control); G2 was consumed the basal diet supplemented with a commercially available synthetic palatant (positive control); G3 was provided with rosemary fortified (at 0.05%) basal diet; G4 was provided with a basil fortified (at 0.05%) basal diet; and G5 was offered a rosemary and basil fortified (each at 0.025%) basal diet. G4 and G5 exhibited a positive impact on growth performance traits. Dogs in G3, G4, and G5 showed significant decreases in serum glucose levels in comparison to dogs of the control groups (G1 and G2). It was clear that the inclusion level of 0.05% of basil leaves powder showed the greatest hypoglycemic action. Indeed, G4 dogs showed a reduction in blood glucose at a percentage of approximately 31% followed by G5 and G3 groups (16.25% and 14%, respectively). Furthermore, basil leaves inhibited the amylase enzyme activity. Both insulin and cortisol levels in G4 dogs were increased and reduced compared to controls, respectively. In addition, dietary fortification with rosemary and/or basil significantly increased glutathione, superoxide dismutase, and catalase levels, while values for malondialdehyde and lactate dehydrogenase were decreased. It could be concluded that dietary fortification of dog diet with rosemary and/or basil leaves powder at 0.05% separately or 0.025% in combination might be used as promising modulators of blood glucose levels as well as clinico-nutritional management tools for the prevention and control of diabetes mellitus in dogs. Keywords: amylase, basil, cortisol, hypoglycemia, insulin, rosemary, Rottweiler.

The study aimed to determine the overall prevalence of livestock diseases in North Eastern Region (NER) of India, through a systematic review and meta-analysis of published data. The articles used for the study were retrieved from PubMed, J-Gate Plus, Indian Journals, and Google scholar, R open-source scripting software 3.4.3. Metafor, Meta. The Chi-square test was conducted to assess for the heterogeneity, forest plot (confidence interval [CI] plot) is a method utilized to present the results of meta-analysis, displaying effect estimate and their CIs for each study were used for searching and retrieval of livestock diseases prevalence data in India using a search strategy combining keywords and related database-specific subject terms from 2008 to 2017 in English only. The prevalence of various livestock diseases are foot-and-mouth disease (21%), bluetongue (28%), brucellosis in bovine (17%), brucellosis in caprine (2%), brucellosis in porcine (18%), brucellosis in sheep and goat (3%), babesiosis (6%), theileriosis (26%), porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (1%), porcine cysticercosis (6%), classical swine fever (31%), Porcine circovirus (43%), and Peste des petits ruminants (15%). This information helps policymakers to take appropriate measures to reduce the disease burden. This study indicates that the overall prevalence of various livestock diseases in NER of India. Keywords: babesiosis, brucellosis, classical swine fever, foot-and-mouth disease, forest plot, livestock, meta-analysis, North Eastern regions, Peste des petits ruminants, Porcine circovirus, porcine cysticercosis, porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome, prevalence, seroprevalence, theileriosis.

Dairy cows with uterine torsion often are susceptible to reduced fertility resulting in more costs and effort to restore the economy of those cows. The aim of our study was to examine and evaluate the possible associations between uterine torsion and consequent uterine involution disturbances, on the one hand, and between the degree and duration of uterine torsion with fertility parameters, on the other hand. Within 1.5 years, 115 dairy cows (German Browns, German Holsteins, and German Fleckvieh) that were suffering from uterine torsion were examined to evaluate the incidence of involution disturbances of the uterus and to examine the fertility after calving. Statistical analysis included correlation analyses between the degree and duration of torsion and fertility parameters (days open, days to conception, conception rate and services per conception, and intercalving interval) as well as incidence of involution disturbances. The study revealed no statistically significant correlation between uterine involution and degree of uterine torsion. However, involution processes were significantly correlated to the time of the expulsion of the fetal membranes. Days to conception and intercalving intervals were significantly influenced by the presence of uterine torsion. Concerning fertility after uterine torsion, it was shown that reduced fertility is associated with the duration of uterine torsion (p=0.02) and time to drop of fetal membranes (p=0.02) but not with the degree of torsion (p=0.27). Keywords: dairy cattle, fertility, uterine torsion, uterus involution.

This study aimed to determine the genetic characterization and phylogenetic structure of Indonesian indigenous catfish using cytochrome B (Cyt B) sequences. The genomes of 26 catfishes caught from nine rivers from nine different geographical locations around Indonesia were analyzed. The tissue isolation method was used to isolate the total genome of the fishes. Furthermore, polymerase chain reaction was done to amplify the mtDNA Cyt B using the CytBF and CytBR primers. Following sequencing, the analysis of genetic variation and the phylogenetic relationship was performed using MEGA version X software. Cyt B gene sequencing attained a total of 1139 nucleotides encrypting 379 amino acids for all samples. The ClustalW alignment program using MEGA X software revealed 395 substituted nucleotides, which then translated into 63 amino acid variation sites among all 26 samples. No amino acids in catfish BB were different compared to catfish PM, MP, and KR2,3. Catfish MS had one modified amino acid; KR1 and KS had two different amino acids; BF had 38 different amino acids; EM had 31 different amino acids; and BSBJ had 26 different amino acids compared to catfish BB. The most significant alteration of amino acids was between catfish EM and BF (49 amino acids). Indonesian catfish were divided into five clades based on the Cyt B gene. Samples KR and MP (Sumatra); MS and BB (Kalimantan); and PM (Java) were clustered with Hemibagrus nemurus and Hemibagrus wyckioides (Bagridae family). Samples from Kalimantan (KS) and one sample of KR (KR1) from Sumatra were clustered with Sperata seenghala and Hemibagrus spilopterus (Bagridae family). Samples from Java (BSBJ) were clustered with Pseudolais pleurotaenia (Pangasiidae family). Samples EM (Java) were together with Mystus cavasius (Bagridae family). Samples from West Papua were clustered with Potamosilurus latirostris (Ariidae family). Keywords: cytochrome B, Indonesian indigenous catfish, mitochondrial DNA, phylogenetic study, Siluriformes.

This study aimed to determine the molecular characteristics of Pasteurella multocida isolates originated from Sumba Island, East Nusa Tenggara Province. The isolates of P. multocida stored in frozen storage were cultured in blood agar as a selective medium and identified conventionally. Molecular tests were initiated by DNA isolation and then followed by polymerase chain reaction tests with specific primers for the determination of P. multocida serotype A or B. Positive strain of serotype B was then confirmed molecularly using 16S rRNA gene primer and followed by the sequencing of nucleotides. The study showed that both P. multocida isolates from Sumba island, i.e. PM1 is isolated from East Sumba district, while PM2 isolated from West Sumba district have 99.6% homology. Both isolates also known have 99% similarities with P. multocida originated from India, Britain, and Japan, respectively. The isolates share the same clade in the phylogenetic tree. The 16S rRNA sequencing revealed a high similarity of P. multocida serotype B:2 isolated from Sumba island with the Indian isolates although the sample size is very small. Therefore, further molecular studies like multilocus sequence typing, VNTR need to be performed using a larger number of samples to establish the genetic relatedness observed in this study. Keywords: genetic relatedness, molecular genetic, Pasteurella multocida, Septicemia Epizootica, Sumba island.

Bovine tuberculosis (bTB) is a chronic bacterial disease of cattle caused by Mycobacterium bovis. bTB causes severe economic losses resulting from livestock deaths, chronic disease, and trade restrictions. Determination of serum levels of adenosine deaminase (ADA), an enzyme produced by monocytes/macrophages and lymphocytes, has been used in the diagnosis of human TB. This study aimed to evaluate the role of ADA enzyme activity in the diagnosis of bTB. In this study, a total of 100 animals (cattle and buffaloes) were screened for bTB by comparative intradermal tuberculin test (CITT) and interferon-γ (IFN-γ) test and in serum samples obtained from 100 screened animals, ADA seric activity was evaluated using ADA-MTB kit procured from Tulip Diagnostics. A total of 18 animals were positive TB reactors by CITT, 8 were positive by IFN-γ, and 4 animals were positive by both CITT and IFN-γ. The average ADA value of bTB-positive animals either by CITT, IFN-γ, or both CITT and IFN-γ was 12.55 U/L, 14.8 U/L, and 18.36 U/L, respectively, in CID negative, it was 10.57 U/L and in IFN-γ negative, it was 10.59 U/L. The average ADA value of bTB-positive animals positive either by CITT, IFN-γ, or both CITT and IFN-γ was more than the average ADA value in animals negative for bTB by either of the tests. Keywords: adenosine deaminase, comparative intradermal tuberculin test, interferon-γ, Mycobacterium bovis.

Camel farming remains a part of the culture of the Arabian Peninsula although modern methods have greatly increased camel densities in the entire region. In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), camel production is threatened by tick parasitism. However, no study has considered assessing the magnitude of the problem in the UAE. We conducted a study evaluating tick richness, abundance, and spatial distribution of ticks on camels in farms near Al Ain, UAE. In addition, we conducted a survey of farm owners to determine the control methods used to eliminate camel ticks. Tick counts were made on 502 camels (Camelus dromedarius). For each examined animal, visual counts of ticks were made on the entire body segregating the counts by head, neck, forelegs, hump, abdomen, back legs, and tail area. In addition, a total of 70 camel owners from the study area were randomly selected and surveyed about the tick control methods. Hyalomma dromedarii was the only species found during the study. The prevalence of ticks was 98% among the sampled animals. The mean intensity (tick load) was 25.8±2.4 ticks/host and the maximum number of ticks per animal was 102. Ticks were found in five vicinities that are on the border with Oman. The highest number of ticks on the body of the camel occurred on the tail area followed by the abdomen. Cypermethrin was the most commonly used acaricide (46.9%). The high abundance of ticks reported in this study calls for the establishment of a good management strategy. In addition, finding ticks in vicinities in the UAE that are on the border with Oman suggests a cross-border movement between the two countries. Therefore, studying this movement is important to understand its role in the global circulation of some H. dromedarii tick-borne diseases and the movement of acaricide resistance alleles among tick populations. Keywords: acaricide, Hyalomma dromedarii, prevalence, tick load, tick-borne disease, United Arab Emirates.

This study was aimed to investigate antimicrobial and cytotoxicity effect of nano ZnO in in vitro for the application of livestock feed supplement. Nano ZnO was synthesized by wet chemical precipitation method using zinc acetate as a precursor and sodium hydroxide was used for reducing the precursor salt. The properties of synthesized powder were characterized using ultraviolet (UV)–visible spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD), respectively. In vitro antimicrobial activities were analyzed against the pathogenic bacteria in poultry Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Streptococcus aeruginosa. 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay was conducted to analyze the cytotoxicity effect of nano ZnO. SEM showed a spherical ZnO particle in the range of 70-100 nm. The size of the particle and purity of the sample were confirmed by XRD. The nano-sized ZnO particles exhibited the UV absorption peak at 335 nm. In FTIR spectroscopy, pure ZnO nanoparticles showed stretching vibrations at 4000-5000 cm-1. ZnO nanoparticles exhibited remarkable antibacterial activity against E. coli, S. aureus, K. pneumoniae, and S. aeruginosa bacterial strains. Cell viability was significantly reduced in a dose-dependent manner in the cytotoxicity study. From the broad-spectrum antibacterial activity and the lower cytotoxicity observed at the prescribed dose, it is concluded that nano ZnO powder is a potential alternate zinc supplement for livestock. Keywords: antimicrobial, cytotoxicity, nano zinc oxide, precipitation method, zinc supplementation.

This study aimed to identify the effect of the insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1) gene on growth, to uncover the genetic marker at the IGF1 gene, and to predict growth performance by analyzing growth models of Kejobong goats based on their genotype. DNA and records of body weight (BW) and body measurements (BM) of Kejobong goats were collected, the IGF1 gene was amplified from the DNA template by polymerase chain reaction (PCR); the PCR products were then sequenced to determine single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP). Linear mixed model (LMM) was used to analyze the association between SNP and growth traits. Four non-linear growth models were analyzed using non-LMM to describe the growth model and to compare the growth within genotypes. An SNP at intron 4 (g5752G→C) genotyped into GG and CC was significantly associated with BW and BM. Goats of genotype GG had a significantly higher BW and BM (p<0.05) than those of genotype CC. Growth analysis showed that the von Bertalanffy model was the most fit for describing BW, the Brody model for chest width and hip height, the Gompertz and Logistic models for heart girth, and the von Bertalanffy and Gompertz models for hip width. An SNP at intron 4 of the IGF1 gene was associated with the growth trait and was usable as a genetic marker candidate for improvement of growth traits of Kejobong goats while von Bertalanffy model provides proper and accurate estimates of parameters to describe the growth performance of Kejobong goats. Keywords: genetic markers, goat, growth analysis, growth traits, insulin-like growth factor 1.

The aim of the study was to investigate the immunomodulatory activity of areca nut extract. The phytochemical content and phenolic composition of the extract were also determined. An extract of areca nut was prepared using 96% ethanol and subsequently screened for phytochemical content using a high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method. The immunomodulatory activity of the extract was tested in 35 Sprague-Dawley rats, divided into four groups: One control group and three experimental groups in which the rats received 500, 1000, or 1500 mg/kg of oral areca nut extract biweekly (BW). The extract was orally administered 14 days before the intraperitoneal challenge with Staphylococcus aureus (1×108 CFU/mL). On the 14th day of the experiment, rats in all the four groups were sacrificed. Measurement of the levels of red blood cells, hematocrit (Hct), hemoglobin (Hb), white blood cells (WBCs), lymphocytes, monocytes, neutrophils, basophils, eosinophil, and macrophages were recorded. The activities of serum glutamate oxalate transaminase, serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase, urea, and creatinine were also determined. Areca nut was found to contain an alkaloid, tannin, and flavonoid compounds. HPLC analysis revealed the presence of catechin as the major compound along with quercetin. Administration of areca nut extract in rats infected with S. aureus produced a significant increase in the concentration of WBC but did not affect Hct, Hb, and other cell types. Among the different doses tested, 1000 mg/kg BW was found to be most effective in cellular immunity models. No harmful effects on the liver and kidney functions were observed. The antioxidant activity of areca nut might be attributed to the presence of catechin and quercetin. Administration of areca nut extract increased the number of WBCs and improved the activity and capacity of macrophages significantly in rats infected with S. aureus. Keywords: areca nut extract, catechin, immunomodulatory activity, phytochemical content.

The present study was conducted to purify the antigen from hydatid cyst fluid (HCF) with high diagnostic efficacy of camel hydatidosis using indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The HCF antigen was purified using Sephacryl S-300 column chromatography. Characterization of fractions was performed using reducing and non-reducing sodium dodecyl sulfate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and Western blot analysis. Further, antibodies against Echinococcus granulosus cysts in camel serum were detected using indirect ELISA. The purification process resulted in three fractions of antigens: FI, FII, and FIII. Indirect ELISA showed that higher diagnostic efficacy was observed in FI than in FII and FIII. Indirect ELISA, in which FI was utilized, showed 88% sensitivity and 91.7% specificity. Non-reducing SDS-PAGE showed that FI had two bands of molecular weights 120 and 60 kDa. Western blot analysis of FI demonstrated that 60, 38, and 22 kDa were antigenic bands when reacted with naturally infected camel sera with E. granulosus cysts. Using indirect ELISA, F1 recorded an infection percentage of 81.7% in randomly collected camel serum samples. FI is a promising antigen for accurate diagnosis of camel CE using indirect ELISA. Keywords: camel hydatidosis, cystic echinococcosis, Echinococcus granulosus, gel filtration chromatography, hydatid cyst fluid, indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, sodium dodecyl sulfate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, Western blot.

The commercial formulations of the herbicide atrazine (cATZ) are widely employed in Brazilian agriculture, and, as a consequence, ATZ has been found at levels above that established by law in the river basins in Brazil. Although the toxicity of ATZ in fish is well documented, there are few studies on the recovery capacity after cATZ exposure. This work aimed to evaluate, using several biomarkers, the toxic effects of long-term exposure to the sublethal (3.57 mg/L) and nonlethal realistic (3.00 μg/L) cATZ concentrations followed by a recovery assay, in fingerlings of a Brazilian teleost, the Piaractus mesopotamicus (pacu). Pacu fingerlings were housed in glass tanks and divided into the following experimental groups (two tanks/group): Exposure control = EC, recovery control = RC, the sublethal groups exposed to 3.57 mg/L of cATZ, (sublethal exposure group = SLE and sublethal recovery group = SLR) and the nonlethal groups treated with 3.00 μg/L of cATZ (nonlethal exposure group = NLE and nonlethal recovery group = NLR). The exposure assay was semi-static with a duration of 30 days and the recovery assay (after cATZ withdrawal) lasted 14 days. Several biomarkers were evaluated in fingerlings from all groups: The swimming behavior, the body weight gain, the micronucleus formation and nuclear alterations in erythrocytes, and the hepatic and renal histopathology analyzed by qualitative and semi-quantitative morphological methods (using light and electron microscopy). No significant difference in weight gain was observed among the groups after the exposure and recovery assays. The sublethal exposure induced impaired swimming movements, significant histopathological alterations, including necrosis in the liver and kidney, and a significant increase in the frequency of micronuclei in erythrocytes. The nonlethal exposure induced only subtle histopathological changes in the liver and kidney. After recovery assay, no genotoxic alteration was noted in pacu exposed to sublethal concentration, while the cATZ-induced kidney damage was partially reversed but not the hepatic injury. cATZ exhibits long-term toxic effects on pacu, even at relatively low concentrations, affecting mainly the liver and the kidney, and the effects of sublethal concentration are only partially reversed after cATZ withdrawal. Keywords: Brazilian ichthyofauna, genotoxicity, histopathology, liver and kidney lesions, recovery assay, ultrastructure.

Ovariohysterectomy (OHE) is a common procedure for sterilization of female dogs. However, knowledge of changes in pain stress, oxidative stress, and total antioxidant power status before, during, and after OHE is limited. The objective of this experiment was to study the effect of duration on pain stress, oxidative stress, and total antioxidant power status in female dogs undergoing OHE. Seven female dogs were sterilized using the OHE method. Pain scores, hematological changes, and biochemical markers were investigated during pre-operative, 3 h after starting OHE, and on days 3, 7, 10, and 14 of an experimental period. Data were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance. At 3 days after OHE, pain score was higher than on days 7-14 of the experimental period; percentage of neutrophil, 3 h after starting OHE, was higher than during pre-operative and on days 3-14 of the experimental period; percentage of lymphocyte on days 10-14 was lower than during pre-operative, 3 h after starting OHE, and on days 3-7 of the experimental period; neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio, 3 h after starting OHE, was higher than during pre-operative and on days 3-14 of the experimental period; plasma malondialdehyde on day 3 was higher than during pre-operative, 3 h after starting OHE, and on days 3-14 of the experimental period; and total antioxidant power on day 14 was higher than during pre-operative, 3 h after starting OHE, and on days 3-10 of the experimental period, respectively. This experiment indicated that OHE caused pain stress, oxidative stress, and reduction of total antioxidant power in female dogs. Finally, female dogs needed antioxidant for 7 days after OHE. Keywords: female dog, ovariohysterectomy, oxidative stress, pain stress, total antioxidant power.

The research aimed to test the association between the level of immunoglobulin G (IgG) in bovine colostrum and calf blood serum and to evaluate its relation to Cryptosporidium spp. invasion in calves. Fresh colostrum and fecal specimens from cows (n=114) as well as blood and fecal specimens from newborn calves (n=114) were collected in the dairy cattle farm. Investigated calves were separated from their mothers directly after birth and received 2 L of colostrum in two separate feedings within the first 24 h. Blood samples were taken from calves at the age of 2 days. Coprological samples were taken from calves at the age of 1, 10, and 15 days. Both colostrum and fecal samples from cows were taken on the 1st day after calf birth. Rectal fecal samples were collected separately from each calf and cow into plastic bags. The collected calf serum samples and bovine colostrum samples were tested for bovine IgG by competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit bovine Ig. To record oocysts of Cryptosporidium spp. in feces, the flotation method was used. Binomial logistic regression was performed to ascertain the effects of IgG in bovine colostrum and calf blood serum on the likelihood of Cryptosporidium spp. infection in calves. The concentration of IgG in bovine colostrum was higher (70.7±26.6 g/L, mean±standard deviation) than that in calf blood serum (13.2±6.1 g/L); the statistically significant difference was 57.4 g/L (95% confidence interval, 52.4-62.4), t (124.872)=22.536, p<0.001. Mann–Whitney's U-test showed a significant difference between samples collected on days 10 and 15 of the experiment (U=1944, z=2.330, p=0.020). The higher number of oocysts in calf feces was recorded on day 15 (median=6.5) compared to day 10 (median=4). The prevalence of calf infection from days 10 to 15 increased from 26.3 to 45.6% and was at least 3 times higher than in cows. A statistically significant positive correlation was recorded between IgG concentration of cow colostrum and calf blood serum (r (114)=0.414, p=0.001), whereas a correlation between the concentration of IgG and the intensity of Cryptosporidium spp. infection was not recorded (p>0.05). The logistic regression model was not statistically significant (χ2(2)=0.013, p=0.99 (10 days) and χ2(2)=0.100, p=0.95 (15 days)). Mother passive transfer of immunity to the offspring through colostrum does not influence the susceptibility of calves to Cryptosporidium infestation. Keywords: calves, Cryptosporidium, dairy cows, immunoglobulins.

Infectious laryngotracheitis virus (ILTV) causes a highly pathogenic respiratory disease that affects poultry. It is also known as Gallid herpesvirus 1. ILT prophylaxis measures often include using live attenuated vaccines. The live attenuated vaccine can, however, lead to the formation of new strains of ILTV as a result of vaccine reversion and recombination with field strains. Therefore, this study was performed to explore the multilocus variation of ILTV strains of field and vaccine origin. Samples were tested from two distinctive geographical areas in Iraq as little is known about the ILTV genetic diversity within these areas. The polymerase chain reaction method was utilized to generate sequencing templates of six highly polymorphic genes, including UL54, UL52, gB, ICP18.5, ICP4, and gJ in the layer chicken sample (n=15). The Western blotting technique was also employed to detect and estimate the native molecular weight of gE. The results revealed an important degree of genetic relatedness between the field and vaccine strains across all genes. In addition, gE was found to be expressed natively at 49 kDa. The findings of this study may be used to improve the production process of the vaccine for more effective ILT prophylaxis and could further the understanding of epidemiologists and immunologists to better control ILT in the future. Keywords: Gallid herpesvirus 1, infectious laryngotracheitis virus, infectious laryngotracheitis, polymerase chain reaction.

The development of resistance to anthelmintic drugs has prompted research into alternative methods of controlling intestinal nematodes in ruminants. This study aimed at evaluating the in vitro and in vivo anthelmintic efficacy and toxicity of chitosan encapsulated bromelain in Small East African goats in Kenya. Adult mortality assay was performed using live Haemonchus contortus worms treated with encapsulated bromelain solution ranging from 0.125 mg/ml to 2 mg/ml. Percentage mortality of worms was calculated after 24 h and the lethal concentration 50% (LC50) determined. For the in vivo study, 18 healthy male indigenous goats were divided into six groups of three goats each. The encapsulated bromelain was orally administered in increasing dosages (3-30 mg kg) once daily, for 14 days. The packed cell volume (PCV), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), urea, creatinine, and fecal egg count (FEC) were determined on a weekly basis. At the end of the study, the goats were sacrificed and gross pathology and histopathology of main organs assessed. Albendazole had the highest (p<0.05) anthelmintic effect on the worms. An LC50 of 0.05 mg/ml, 0.445 mg/ml, and 0.155 mg/ml was observed for albendazole, plain bromelain, and encapsulated bromelain, respectively. The PCV of treated and untreated goats did not show any significant difference (p>0.05), varied from 29.3% to 35.1%, and was within the normal range of the animal. Likewise, no significant differences (p>0.05) were observed between the AST, ALT, urea, and creatinine levels of treated and the control (non-treated) goats. No adverse clinical symptoms, toxicity of the main organs, and mortality in goats were associated with the chitosan encapsulated bromelain after administration of dose up to 30 mg/kg for 14 days. Therefore, the lethal dose 50 of encapsulated bromelain may be considered to be >30 mg/kg. On day 28 post-treatment, the encapsulated bromelain showed a higher in vivo FEC reduction (68.8%) as compared to the plain bromelain (32.4%). Our results show that bromelain encapsulated in chitosan may be safe and effective in reducing the burden of gastrointestinal tract strongyle nematodes in goats. However, there is a need for further studies to establish the dosage of the encapsulated bromelain to be administered in a single dose for the treatment of goats against gastrointestinal strongyles. In addition, species-specific studies on the efficacy of encapsulated bromelain on strongyles are necessary to evaluate its effectiveness against the entire Strongyloididae family. Keywords: anthelmintic efficacy, bromelain, chitosan, goats, nanoencapsulation, toxicity.

Salmonella Enteritidis (SE) is a significant foodborne pathogen that can often be traced to poultry and poultry products. This study aims to evaluate the ability of three commonly used non-antimicrobial feed additives in reducing the amount of SE in the ceca of laying type pullets. On day 0, 60 Hy-Line Brown pullets aged 9 weeks were allocated to individual cages in 15 replicate blocks of four pens. Pullets were administered a mash feed provided ad libitum without supplementation (control) or with dietary supplementation of 454 g/ton yeast cell wall (YCW), or 454 g/ton Bacillus spp. probiotic, or 1133 g/ton yeast culture (YC). On day 3 of the trial, all birds were orally administered 3×107 CFU of a nalidixic acid-resistant SE. On day 10, 7 days after inoculation, all birds were humanely euthanized, and the ceca were aseptically removed for analysis. There was no significant difference in the prevalence of SE among treatments. The mean quantity of SE detected in the ceca expressed in log10 most probable number/g was 2.52 in the control, 2.49 in the YCW treatment, 1.73 in the probiotic treatment, and 1.66 in the YC treatment. The reduction between control and probiotic and control and YC was significant (p=0.021). This study demonstrates the ability of the novel probiotic and the YC to reduce the load of SE in layer ceca. Keywords: layers, probiotic, Salmonella Enteritidis, yeast cell wall, yeast culture.

Cyclophosphamide therapy is known to be associated with the risk of female infertility as a result of ovarian toxicity. Alpha-lipoic acid (LA) and omega-3 fatty acids are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. The present study investigated the potential protective effect of alpha-LA, omega-3 fatty acids, and its combination against cyclophosphamide-induced ovarian toxicity in rats. Thirty rats were equally divided into Groups I, II, III, IV, and V. Group I was normal control, wherein the rats were fed with normal feed and water ad libitum. Group II served as cyclophosphamide-induced group, wherein the rats were injected with cyclophosphamide at 75 mg/kg through intraperitoneal route once a week to induce ovarian toxicity. Groups III and IV were treated with alpha-LA at the rate of 25 mg/kg and omega-3 fatty acids at the rate of 400 mg/kg, respectively, in parallel to cyclophosphamide induction as in Group II. Group V animals were coadministered with alpha-LA (25 mg/kg) and omega-3 fatty acids (400 mg/kg) along with cyclophosphamide induction as in Group II. The respective treatments were administered daily through oral route for a period of 30 days. Regularity of estrous cycle was evaluated by vaginal cytology. Post-treatment period, the animals were humanely sacrificed, and the blood samples were subjected to the estimation of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and estrogen. The ovarian tissue was weighed and subjected to histopathology, transmission electron microscopy, estimation of decreased glutathione (GSH), and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha. Rats treated with cyclophosphamide alone manifested irregularity in estrous cycle, increased FSH, and reduced estrogen levels. The ovaries showed decreased GSH and increased TNF-alpha concentrations. Histopathological and transmission electron microscopic analysis of the ovarian follicles revealed degenerative changes. Administration of alpha-LA and omega-3 fatty acids as well as the combination of both the treatments demonstrated significant normalization of the estrous cycle and antioxidant defense mechanism as well as ameliorated the hormonal profile and histological architecture of the ovarian follicles. However, appreciable synergistic efficacy of the combination therapy (alpha-LA+omega-3 fatty acids) with respect to the monotherapies was not observed in the present study. The efficacy of alpha-LA and omega-3 fatty acids against cyclophosphamide-induced ovarian toxicity could be attributed to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities that prevented the oxidative damage to the ovaries caused by cyclophosphamide. Hence, our findings suggest that dietary supplementation of alpha-LA and omega-3 fatty acids in women receiving cyclophosphamide therapy could carry potential benefits in preventing cyclophosphamide-induced infertility in childbearing women. Keywords: alpha-lipoic acid, cyclophosphamide, omega-3 fatty acid, ovarian toxicity, oxidative stress.

The study of biofilm-forming ability of Gram-negative microflora has great practical importance for assessing the effectiveness of antibiotic therapy and finding new ways to diagnose and inhibit the growth of biofilms. This is because poor penetration of antibacterial drugs into the biofilm can lead to the selection of resistant strains and has a consequence evident by the occurrence of relapse of infection in animals. This study aimed to evaluate morphological and densitometric indicators of biofilm formation as well as adhesive properties of Klebsiella pneumoniae. K. pneumoniae was cultured at 37°C for 2-144 h in vitro. The specimens for optical microscopy were prepared by fixation with a 1:1 alcohol-ether mixture for 10 min and stained with a 0.5% solution of gentian violet for 2 min, and the optical density index was evaluated at a wavelength of 490 nm. Further, the adhesive properties of the microorganisms were determined at a concentration of 1 billion/ml and a suspension of ram erythrocytes at a concentration of 100 million/ml when cultured at 37°C for 24 h. Blood smears were prepared and stained with 0.5% gentian violet. K. pneumonia cultured at 37°C after 24 h on the meat peptone agar formed large, convex, mucous, and white colonies (d=3.0-6.0 mm). With the growth in the meat and peptone broth, uniform turbidity of the medium was observed. Analyzing the optical density indices (density, D), it was found that K. pneumoniae were good producers of biofilms (D=0.528±0.31). Data for indicators of adhesive properties of K. pneumoniae were as follows: Average adhesion index, 4.56±0.14; adhesion coefficient, 1.07±0.52; and adhesion index, 4.26±0.07. The studied bacteria had high adhesive activity. A direct correlation dependence (R=0.94) of the optical density of biofilms (D≥0.514-0.551) and AAI (4.15±0.28-4.76±0.75) was established. This study has demonstrated that K. pneumoniae had high adhesive activity, was strong producer of biofilms, and the optical density of the sample exceeded the optical density of the control by more than 4 times. Keywords: adhesion coefficient, average adhesion index, biofilms, Gram-negative microflora, Klebsiella pneumoniae, optical density.

The objectives of this study were to determine the prevalence and associated risk factors of bluetongue virus (BTV) in sheep and bovine ephemeral fever virus (BEFV) in dairy cattle in Jordan. A simple randomized study was designed to collect 600 serum samples from sheep and 300 serum samples from dairy cattle located in the Northwestern parts of Jordan. In addition, data regarding farm management were collected using a pre-tested questionnaire through personal interview to determine potential risk factors. The seroprevalences of BEF and BTVs were determined using serum neutralization test and BTV group-specific competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, respectively. The overall seroprevalence of neutralizing antibodies against BEFV in dairy cattle was 45.37%. The overall seroprevalence of BTV group-specific antibodies in sheep was 47.8% (54% true seroprevalence). Logistic regression analysis identified geographic location (Irbid) (odds ratio [OR]=1.0; confidence interval [CI]=0.5-2.1), no use of disinfectants on the farm (OR=1.0; CI=0.05-0.1), and lack of veterinary services (OR=10; CI=3.5-13.2) as risk factors associated with high seropositivity against BTV in sheep. Geographic location (Jarash) (OR=3; CI=1.0-5.5), age of the animal (1-2 years of age (OR=1; CI=0.3-1.9), and lack of veterinary services (OR=9; CI=4-11) were identified as risk factors associated with high seroprevalence against BEFV in dairy cattle. Results of this study indicate that BEFV in dairy cattle and BTV in sheep are endemic in Northwestern regions of Jordan. Implementation of appropriate control measures is, therefore, required to reduce the adverse effects of these diseases on animal health and productivity. Keywords: arthropod-transmitted diseases, biosecurity, control measures, livestock, ruminants.

A study was conducted to evaluate the ameliorative potential of homeopathic drugs in combination (Sulfur 30C, Thuja 30C, Graphites 30C, and Psorinum 30C) in 16 dogs affected with oral papillomatosis which was not undergone any previous treatment. Dogs affected with oral papillomatosis, which have not undergone any initial treatment and fed with a regular diet. Dogs (total=16) were randomly divided into two groups, namely, homeopathic treatment group (n=8) and placebo control group (n=8). Random number table was used for allocation. Homeopathic combination of drugs and placebo drug (distilled water) was administered orally twice daily for 15 days. Clinical evaluation in both groups of dogs was performed by the same investigator throughout the period of study (12 months). Dogs were clinically scored for oral lesions on days 0, 5, 7, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 45, 60, 90, 120, and 150 after initiation of treatment. The homeopathic treatment group showed early recovery with a significant reduction in oral lesions reflected by clinical score (p<0.001) in comparison to placebo-treated group. Oral papillomatous lesions regressed in the homeopathic group between 7 and 15 days, whereas regression of papilloma in the placebo group occurred between 90 and 150 days. The homeopathic treated group was observed for 12 months post-treatment period and no recurrence of oral papilloma was observed. The current study proves that the combination of homeopathy drugs aids in fastening the regression of canine oral papilloma and proved to be safe and cost-effective. Keywords: Graphites, homeopathy, oral papillomatosis, Psorinum, Sulfur, Thuja.

Cystic echinococcosis (CE) is a widespread parasitic disease caused by Echinococcus granulosus tapeworm infect different intermediate hosts including sheep, cattle, and camels. The intermediate host's immune response to the hydatid cyst is still conflict and complex. The current study was designed to evaluate the immune response in sera of hydatid naturally infected sheep, cattle, and camels in the form of features of inflammatory cell infiltrations, levels of Th1 and Th2 cytokines, besides the humoral specific immunoglobulin G (IgG) responses. Thirty-nine sheep, 74 cattle, and 79 camels' sera were collected and considered as CE naturally infected and ten samples from each species were graded as non-infected. Lung specimens were collected for histopathological examination. The quantitative concentrations of tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-4, and IL-10 were determined. Different antigens were prepared from hydatid cyst; hydatid cyst fluid of lung origin hydatid cyst fluid of liver origin, hydatid cyst protoscoleces of lung origin (HCP-g), hydatid cyst protoscoleces of liver origin , hydatid cyst germinal layer of lung origin, and hydatid cyst germinal layer of liver origin; and characterized by gel electrophoresis and Western blotting analysis. The total specific IgG level against E. granulosus infection was measured using an indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The results indicated that the cellular immune response in the infected tissues was characterized by inflammatory cell penetration. The pro-inflammatory Th1 cytokine profile was predominant in infected animals in comparison with non-infected ones. However, the humoral immune response was seen as a high level of IgG in infected animals. The presented data approved that the HCP-g antigen could be considered as a delegate antigen for all other prepared antigens with an immunoreactive band at molecular weights 32 kDa. This study provides a fundamental insight into the events that manipulate cellular and humoral immune profiles in an intermediate host; sheep, cattle, and camel that naturally infected with CE. Hence, it was concluded that CE is a constant disease and confirm the reactivity Th1 in combating hydatid cyst. Besides, it could lead to the activation of the humoral immune response in the form of a high level of IgG. Keywords: cell-mediated immune response, humoral immune response, hydatidosis.