bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cryptorchidism in the Karagouniko breed of sheep and its economic consequences
Authors: LAINAS (Θ. ΛΑΪΝΑΣ) Th. , DELIGIANNIS (Κ. ΔΕΛΗΓΙΑΝΝΗΣ) K.
Published: February 2018

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the frequency of cryptorchidism in the Karagouniko breed of sheep. The animals used were derived from the sheep flock at the Agricultural Research Station of Palamas (Karditsa), consisting of 500 breeding ewes and 15 rams of the Karagouniko breed and from two hundred and seven flocks of Karagouniko breed genetic nucleus. In addition 14.107 carcasses of Karagouniko male lambs, slaughtered at the abattoir of Karditsa and the size and weight of testicles and epididymides of 18 cryptorchidic and 7 normal lambs were examined. Finally, the economic impact of this defect was also evaluated. The results showed that cryptorchidism is a defect with a high frequency (23.81% of male lambs, P<0.001) in the Karagouniko breed and it is associated with polledness. The frequency of cryptorchidism is increased in sheep flocks where inbreeding is applied. Cryptorchidism was found to be bilateral or unilateral (20:1 respectively, P<0.001). The most common type of unilateral defect was found to be the right one (10:1, P<0.001). Bilateral was of abdominal or inguinal type(400:l,P<0.001). Testicular aplasia was found to be rare (0.02% of total examined male lambs or 0.09% of cryptorchid ones). The weight of "hidden" testicles and epididymides was lower than that of normal (-14.06% and -22.99% respectively, P<0.001). However, until the age of 4 months, there was no difference in weight between cryptorchidic and normal lambs. Males with bilateral cryptorhidism were not able to produce semen. Cryptorchidism causes a considerable decrease in sheep breeders' income (P<0.001), as it deprives them of the opportunity to sell male lambs as breeding animals at the higher than usual price. It is concluded that the high frequency of cryptorchidism in the Karagouniko sheep significantly retards the genetic improvement of the breed and decreases the farmer's income.
Antibiotic resistance of Staphylococcus intermedius strains isolated from 53 natural cases of canine pyoderma
Authors: SARIDOMICHELAKIS (Μ. Ν. ΣΑΡΙΔΟΜΙΧΕΛΑΚΗΣ) M. N. , KOUTINAS (Α.Φ. ΚΟΥΤΙΝΑΣ) A. F. , HELIADIS (Ν. ΗΛΙΑΔΗΣ) N. , GEORGOPOULOU (Ι. ΓΕΩΡΓΟΠΟΥΛΟΥ) I. , LEONTIDES (Λ. ΛΕΟΝΤΙΔΗΣ) L.
Published: February 2018

Samples for bacterial cultures on blood agar were obtained from the skin lesions of 53 dogs demonstrating the typical clinical and cytological features of superficial (n=17) or deep (n=36) pyoderma. None of them had received any kind of antimicrobial therapy within the previous month. The Staphylococcus looking colonies were recultured on blood and Chapman agar for staphylococcal species identification and biotyping. All 53 coagulasepositive staphylococcal isolates were eventually identified as S. intermedius. The susceptibility for each of these isolates was tested against 12 different antibiotics with the disc diffusion method. Resistance rates were found to be 0% for amoxicillin/clavulanate, 11.3% for oxacillin, 7.5% for cefalexin, 5.7% for enrofloxacin, 32.1% for erythromycin, 11.3% for tylosin, 20.8% for lincomycin, 18.9% for clindamycin, 32.1% for doxycycline, 5.7% for amicacin, 7.5% for chloramphenicol and 92.5% for trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole. No correlation between the resistance pattern and either the age, breed, sex, and the animals' lifestyle, or the depth of skin infection, the presence or not of underlying diseases and any past treatment with antibiotics was identified.
Health and Production of Greek Organic Pig Farming: Current situation and perspectives
Authors: PAPATSIROS (Β. ΠΑΠΑΤΣΙΡΟΣ) V. G. , TASSIS (Π.Δ. ΤΑΣΣΗΣ) P. D. , CHRISTODOULOPOULOS (Γ. ΧΡΙΣΤΟΔΟΥΛΟΠΟΥΛΟΣ) G. , BOUTSINI (Σ. ΜΠΟΥΤΣΙΝΙ) S. , TSIRIGOTAKIS (Γ. ΤΣΙΡΙΓΩΤΑΚΗΣ) G. , TZIKA (Ε. TZHKA) E. D.
Published: February 2018

For many years, outdoor pig farming has been one of the most important livestock production seetors in Greece. Since the 1960s, the introduction of high-yielding pig genotypes, under intensive production systems, has replaced almost to disappearance the traditional -based on the native pig breed- outdoor pig farms.Organic pig production systems in Greece are growing in popularity over the last years due to the increasing interest of consumers for organic products. The National Greek projects for organic pig farming started in 2002 and since then it has increased, representing the 15% of total organic livestock production in 2007. According to the Directorate of Organic Agriculture in the Ministry of Rural Development and Food, the development of organic pig farming industry in West Greece, Thessaly and North Greece was impressive from 2002 to 2007, A significant but more gradual development of organic pig farming was seen in the island of Crete, while insignificant development was observed in the Central Greece. The development of organic pig farming especially in the Northern part of the country started from 2003-2004 onwards.In 2002, the total number of organic pigs was just 1.288, while in 2007 it had reached 175.000 organic pigs in the country. However, a significant reduction has been noticed since 2008, mainly due to the national funding cuts for organic pig farming, as well as the increase of feeding expenses. Moreover, training and specialization of organic pig farmers and their investments on modernization and equipment / housing facilities were insufficient, resulting in animal health problems, poor growth performance, poor carcass quality and high-cost production. The most common health problems in Greek organic pig farming are respiratory problems, gastrointestinal problems, claw and skin problems, parasitic infections and high piglet mortality, Increasing health problems were attributed mainly to poor housing conditions (predispose to various infectious micro-organisms), and the contact of organic pigs with rodents that act as tank of several pathogens (Trichinella spp and Toxoplasma gondii). The housing condition of organic farming may predispose animals to various infectious micro-organisms, normally no longer present indoors because of the strict hygienic measures that arc taken. An important risk factor in organic pig production is the more frequent, compared with conventional swine industry, in contact with rodents. Rodents are actors - tank of several pathogens, some of which arc hazardous to public health, such as Trichinella spp and Toxoplasma gondii. This report aims to present updated information about the health status, production and development of organic pig farming in Greece during the last decade, as well as the potential of this particular productive activity for future development
Oxygen free radicals and veterinary medicine
Authors: TSELEPIDIS (Σ. Θ. ΤΣΕΛΕΠΙΔΗΣ) S.
Published: February 2018

Oxygen free radicals have a strong cytotoxic action due to single atoms or groups of atoms that have one or more unpaired electrons. Potentially they can cause damages to several organs of the body and the latest years they have been incriminated for a great number of diseases and many dyndroms in human medicine as well as in veterinary medicine. In the present paper it is presented in general the origin, the biology and the mode of action of oxygen free radicals on the under ischemia and reperfusion
Canine demodicosis
Authors: KOUTINAS (Α.Φ. ΚΟΥΤΙΝΑΣ) A. F. , SARIDOMICHELAKIS (Μ.Ν. ΣΑΡΙΔΟΜΙΧΕΛΑΚΗΣ) M. N. , KOUTINAS (X.Κ. ΚΟΥΤΙΝΑΣ) C. K.
Published: February 2018

Canine demodicosis, which is caused by the follicular mite Demodex canis, is one of the most common skin diseases, especially in the young dog. Demodicosis can be localized or generalized; in the latter a parasite-specific cellular immunosuppression, which is genetically transmitted, is the cornerstone of its pathogenesis. Alopecia - hypotrichosis, erythema, hyperpigmentation, lichenification, papules, scales and crusts, first appear on the face and front limbs, to spread eventually to the other parts of the body. Superficial or deep staphylococcal pyoderma is a common complication, especially in the generalized form of the disease. Diagnosis will be confirmed by the presence of the mite in high numbers and at various developing stages in the skin scrapings. Treatment is not recommended for the localized form, which is almost always self-limiting. Various ectoparasiticides have been used in the generalized form of the disease, either for topical (amitraz) or systemic application (ivermectin, mylbemycin, moxidectin), with good results. Treatment is terminated when not a single parasite can be found in the skin scrapings on 2-3 consecutive monthly re-examinations. The animal is considered cured if there have not been any relapses one year since the end of the acaricidal treatment.
Sarcoptic mange in guanacos: transmission to sheep and goats and treatment with moxidectin
Authors: PAPADOPOULOS (Η. ΠΑΠΑΔΟΠΟΥΛΟΣ) E. , FTHENAKIS (Γ.Χ. ΦΘΕΝΑΚΗΣ) G. C.
Published: February 2018

Two guanacos were diagnosed with sarcoptic mange, confirmed by recovery of mites, using standard parasitological techniques, from skin scrapings. Each animal was treated twice, 10 days apart, with moxidectin 1% inj. sol. administered subcutaneously. Dose rate was 0.2 mg/kg bodyweight. After the injections, safety observations were made for local or general adverse reactions. Moreover, clinical examinations were made and skin scrapings were collected and examined. After treatment, neither changes were seen at the site of injection, nor general reactions were recorded. The mange skin lesions had disappeared by 42nd day post treatment. No mites were recovered 21 d post-treatment. Thereafter, sheep and goats neighbouring the guanacos developed sarcoptic mange, confirmed by clinical findings and recovery of mites. In contrast, horses, donkeys and dogs, also neighbouring the guanacos, did not develop sarcoptic mange. It is concluded that moxidectin can be used for the treatment of sarcoptic mange in guanacos. The findings support a hypothesis that mites may be transmitted easily among ruminants; these are in line with results of in vitro studies, indicating that mite strains from ruminants belong to the same cluster.
Effects of drying-off procedure of ewes’ udder, with intramammary antibiotic administration, in subsequent mammary infection and development of mastitis
Authors: PETRIDIS (Ι.Γ. ΠΕΤΡΙΔΗΣ) I. G. , MAVROGIANNI (Β.Σ. ΜΑΥΡΟΓΙΑΝΝΗ) V. S. , GOUGOULIS (Δ.Α. ΓΟΥΓΟΥΛΗΣ) D. A. , AMIRIDIS (Γ.Σ. ΑΜΟΙΡΙΔΗΣ) G. S. , BROZOS (Χ. ΜΠΡΟΖΟΣ) C. , FTHENAKIS (Γ.Χ. ΦΘΕΝΑΚΗΣ) G. C.
Published: February 2018

Objective of the study was to evaluate effects of the procedure followed for drying-off of ewes’ udder in subsequent mammary infection and development of mastitis, in an experiment, where intramammary antibiotic administration (procaine penicillin and neomycin) was performed into the right mammary gland of animals at end of lactation period. In ewes of group A, drying-off took place progressively during a period of 22 days; in ewes of group B, drying-off took place abruptly. Samples of teat duct material and milk for bacteriological and cytological examination were collected before start of the drying-off procedure and on two occasions after the subsequent lambing. Median time to first teat duct infection postpartum was 2 and 4.5 days (left and right, respectively) for group A and 6.5 and 3.5 days for group B (P > 0.38); median time to first mammary infection post-partum was 4.5 and 7 days (left and right, respectively) for group A and 6.5 and 3.5 days for groupB (P > 0.22). Principal bacterial isolates were coagulase-negative staphylococci. No significant differences were observed between the two groups in post-partum frequency of: teat duct infection (P > 0.17), mammary infection (P > 0.36), subclinical mastitis (P > 0.36), abnormal findings in a mammary gland (P > 0.17). No significant differences were seen between the two groups in post-partum incidence risk of the following outcomes: teat duct infection (P > 0.75), mammary infection (P > 0.42), subclinical mastitis (P > 0.39), abnormal findings in a mammary gland (P > 0.85). No significant differences were evident between the two groups in cure rate of abnormal findings in a mammary gland (P >0.89); a significant difference was evident between left and right mammary glands (P < 0.045). The results support a hypothesis that the procedure for udder drying-off (i.e., progressive or abrupt cessation of lactation) does not appear to affect the risk  of subsequent mammary infection and development of mastitis, in cases of intramammary administration of antibiotics at the end of a lactation period. Intramammary administration of antibiotics improved cure rates of mammary abnormalities, independently of the procedure followed for udder drying-off.
Vitamin A concentrations in dairy cows of Thessaloniki 's county
Authors: CHRISTODOULOPOULOS (Γ. ΧΡΙΣΤΟΔΟΥΛΟΠΟΥΛΟΣ) G. , ROUBIES (Ν. ΡΟΥΜΠΙΕΣ) N. , KARATZIAS (Χ. ΚΑΡΑΤΖΙΑΣ) H. , PAPASTERIADIS (Α. ΠΑΠΑΣΤΕΡΙΑΔΗΣ) A.
Published: February 2018

Avitaminosis A is stilla serius metabolic problem for cattle in Greece. The purpose of this research work was to investigate the blood vitamin A concentrations in dairy cows of Thessaloniki 's area. The research was conducted in 51 dairy cow farms; whole blood samples from 10 female adult animals per farm, as well as samples from the feedstuffs in use, were collected. Of the total 510 examined cows, 38% showed lower than normal vitamin A concentration in blood plasma (<0,20 μ^ηιΐ), 15% marginal (0,20-0,24 μg/ml) and 47% normal concentration values (>0,25 μg/ml). It should be noted that, of the total 510 examined cows only 7% showed extremely deficient concentration of vitamin A in blood plasma (<0,05 μg/ml). The determination of total carotene concentration in feedstuffs from those farms, indicated that only the corn ensilage and the fresh grass contained the appropriate amount of carotene. The above results, in correlation with corresponding results from previous researches, indicate that there is a decrease in the percentage of cows with subnormal vitamin A concentration. This may be attributed to more frequent use of corn silage, and more systematic addition of vitamin A in concentrate feeds. This research provides evidence that some dairy cow genotypes, with high milk yields, may balance their needs only by vitamin A supplementation, it means that maybe the ration carotenes alone are no sufficient vitamin A source for these cows. Furthermore, the results of this research suggest that the absence of a regulator mechanism for the carotene concentration in the cattle blood plasma may be possible.
Freezing of rabbit semen after the addition of glycerol and dimethylsulfoxide in the extender
Authors: SAMOUILIDIS (Σ. ΣΑΜΟΥΗΛΙΔΗΣ) S. , SAOULIDIS (Κ. ΣΑΟΥΛΙΔΗΣ) K. , FOUKOS (Α. ΦΟΥΚΟΣ) A. , YPSILANTIS (Π. ΥΨΗΛΑΝΤΗΣ) P. , DEMERTZIS (Α. ΔΕΜΕΡΤΖΗΣ) A. , SBIRAKI (Α.Π. ΣΜΠΙΡΑΚΗ) A. P.
Published: February 2018

In this study, semen from 10 rabbits was frozen after it was diluted in two different extenders, A and B. Extender A consisted of Tris-buffer in which 20% of egg yolk and 3% of glycerol were added, while extender Β had the same composition, plus 3% of dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO). The semen of the buck exhibiting the best post-thaw motility in the two extenders, was used for the insemination of two corresponding groups (I and II) of 20 does each. The average sperm motility of fresh semen (77%) was significantly reduced (P<0.05) after it was frozen in the extender A (47%) and Β (54%). The post-thaw sperm motility in extender Β was significantly higher (P<0.05) than that in extender A. The percentage of the animals that gave birth in group II (60%) was increased compared to that of the animals in group I (50%), but not significantly (P>0.05). Also, no significant difference (P>0.05) was observed between the average litter size of group I (6,8±1,7) and group II (7,0±1,9). Thereafter, it is concluded that freezing rabbit semen in an extender that contains a combination of the cryoprotective agents glycerol and DMSO, in the proportion of 3% and 3%, respectively, results in a significant improvement of post-thaw sperm motility, while it doesn't affect significantly its fertility value neither the size of the litters.
The evaluation of oxidative stress in lambs with Pestivirus infection
Authors: ASLAN Ο. , GENCAY GOKSU Α. , APAYDIN Ν.
Published: February 2018

This study was carried out to measure the plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) level, and erythrocyte glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities in lambs with Pestivirus. Sixty lambs aged between 2.5-3 months old were included in the study. Blood and faeces samples were examined by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test, using pan-Pestivirus primers. Clinical and virological examinations revealed that the numbers of non-infected and Pestivirus -infected animals were 20 (Group 1) and 40 (Group 2), respectively. Plasma MDA levels were found significantly higher in lambs with Pestivirus than that of controls (p<0.05) whilst the erythrocyte GSH-Px, CAT and SOD activities were significantly lower in lambs with Pestivirus (p<0.05) than in the controls. The determination of increased plasma MDA levels and decreased erythrocyte GSH-Px, CAT and SOD activities in the infected lambs confirms that oxidative stress is observed in Pestivirus. The presence of oxidative stress in Pestivirus indicates that the equilibrium between oxidants and antioxidants is shifted towards oxidants in lambs with Pestivirus.
Κοροναϊός του σκύλου: ένας όχι ‘αθώος’ ιός
Authors: NTAFIS (Β. ΝΤΑΦΗΣ) V. , PAPANASTASSOPOULOU (Μ. ΠΑΠΑΝΑΣΤΑΣΟΠΟΥΛΟΥ) M. , XYLOURI (E.ΞΥΛΟΥΡΗ) E.
Published: February 2018

Canine coronavirus (CCoV) is a significant aetiologic agent of acute diarrhoea in dogs, specially in puppies. An important characteristic of coronaviruses is their high genetic variability, due to increased mutation frequency and sporadic recombination events. Due to this genetic variability, CCoV is classified in two distinct types, type I and II. CCoV type I strains share increased genetic similarity with Feline coronavirus strains, while CCoV type II consists of the typical reference CCoVs. Moreover, type II strains are classified into one of two subtypes, which include the classical strains (CCoV-IIa) and the new strains (CCoV-IIb), which emerged as a result of recombination among CCoV and Porcine transmissible gastroenteritis virus. Typical disease signs of CCoV infection are anorexia, depression, lethargy, as well as vomiting and diarrhoea. Mortality rate is low, especially in adult dogs with no infection signs. Most dogs recover within 7-10 days. Mixed infections with other viruses, bacteria or parasites may lead to more severe clinical disease. Currently, CCoV appears to have spread worldwide and has been related to mild, acute diarrhoea. However, during the last years, novel CCoV strains associated with outbreaks of lethal gastroenteritis have been detected in Australia and Europe. Genome analysis revealed that these strains shared low similarity with prototype reference strains of CCoV, suggesting that atypical, divergent strains may be related to more severe clinical signs. In addition, over the past decade, strains with an ability to trespass the intestinal tract, leading to lethal systemic infection, have also been isolated. These strains have attracted scientific interest, with research focusing on experimental infections, identification of genetic markers and prophylaxis. Pantropic CCoV strains have been detected across Europe, suggesting that the new, highly pathogenic biotype is circulating among canine population. The high genetic variability of CCoV, the severe mixed infections  and the antigenic differences among CCoV types and subtypes raise questions regarding the protective efficacy of the currently commercially available vaccines.
Evidence for the presence of morphine like substance and μ opiate receptor expression in Dicrocoelium dendriticum (Trematoda: Dicrocoeliidae)
Authors: MOSTAFAEI T. S. , NAEM S. , IMANI M. , DALIREZH N.
Published: February 2018

Parasites for living in host’s body, evade from host’s immune system using variant methods such as production of some molecules with immunosuppressive properties. Of these immunosuppression molecules are morphine and morphine like substances. It can effect on innate and adaptive immunity and also humoral and cellular immunity. The past researches were approved the existence of morphine in the brain and adrenal of beef and in brain of mammalian and also it has been demonstrated as an immune modulator molecule in some invertebrates, some of the nematodes and also a trematode Schistosoma mansoni, But there is no document for morphine evidence in trematode Dicrocoelium dendriticum. Infection with this trematode has much importance either in health of ruminant and economic loos in the meat industry. In addition, this trematode is a zoonosis that there is no proper treatment for it in contrast with the other liver fluke, Fasciola hepatica. We assume that living for a long time in the bile ducts of host is related to morphine like substance as an immune regulatory molecule. We use RP-HPLC method for detection morphine in D. dendriticum and also using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) for μ opioid receptor finding. According to the results D. dendriticum has endogenous morphine like material and also the existence of opioid μ receptor in this trematode was approved. Living in host bile duct for a long time without sever immunopathologycal impact, suggested that probably this worm use of morphine like material as an immunoregulatory molecule and also for escaping from host immune system.
Stress response to trauma
Authors: FLOURAKI (Ε. Σ. ΦΛΟΥΡΑΚΗ) E. S. , KAZAKOS (Γ.Μ. ΚΑΖΑΚΟΣ) G. M. , PAPAZOGLOU (Λ.Γ. ΠΑΠΑΖΟΓΛΟΥ) L. G.
Published: February 2018

Trauma generates a series of alterations in the body, which are termed ‘stress response’. Injury triggers a reaction proportional to the intensity and duration of the stimuli imposed. Stress response reaction is mainly attributed to the sympathoadrenal axis and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. Activation of these two axes elicits secretion of several hormones, such catecholamines and cortisol from the adrenal glands or various other hormones from the hypothalamus and the pituitary gland. That affects body metabolism and the cardiovascular system, in order to ensure adequate energy reserves, to retain water and to maintain cardiac output and vascular fluid volume. Objective of the activation observed after trauma is to eventually restore body homeostasis. A primary injury is accompanied by several reactions that may activate stress response.Blood loss, hypotension, acid-base balance disorders, quality of anaesthesia and pain generate impulses that activate the neuro endocrine response. Increased secretion of stress hormones enhances heart rate, heart contractility, blood pressure, oxygen consumption and respiratory rate. Moreover, stress hormones enhance glyconeogenesis, glycogonolysis and lypolysis, whilst they increase insulin resistance and inhibit glucose cell intake, thus leading to hyperglycaemia. Tissue injury is also associated with the release of proinflammatory mediators, such as cytokines. The pro-inflammatory cytokines, released from damaged cells, result in alterations of cell immunity, local and systemic inflammation and pain. The effects of stress response can vary upon the general condition of the animals. Animals in good condition can tolerate it well, although animals in poor condition can show deficiency of energy substrate, cardiovascular collapse, multi-organ failure and, finally, death. Over the years, it has been shown that anaesthesia can modify or limit the stress response. Although anaesthesia cannot eliminate the stress response, it can contribute in decreasing its peri-anaesthetic effects.
Polymorphism of Prolactin Gene and Its Association with Egg Production Trait in Four Commercial Chicken Lines
Authors: OSMAN MOHAMED M.M. , HEMEDA SHAABAN A. , HASSANIN ABEER A.I. , HUSSEINY WALAA A.
Published: February 2018

Broodiness is a behavioral trait observed in most common breeds of domestic fowl and due to its fundamental role in avian reproduction, it has been of great interest to poultry scientists, breeders and producers of hatching eggs. Prolactin gene (PRL) is generally accepted as crucial to the onset and maintenance of broodiness in birds and thus plays a crucial role in egg production. Therefore, the present study aimed to screen the Single Nucleotides Polymorphisms (SNPs) of prolactin gene in four commercial chicken lines namely Hubbard F15, Lohmann, Cobb500, and Avian48 using PCR and direct sequencing. A total number of forty chickens (ten females from each of the four commercial chicken lines) were used. Blood samples were collected aseptically from brachial (wing) vein of the chickens for genomic DNA extraction. PCR reaction was done using five pairs of primers, one sense (F) and one antisense (R) primer for each of the five exons of prolactin gene. Finally, DNA sequencing and Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) analysis was done using Laser gene Megalign program. The results showed three SNPs in Hubbard F15 chicken line; one synonymous SNP at the position 3838 bp (ACC/ACT-transition) in exon 2 while in exon 5, two SNPs were detected; one non-synonymous single nucleotide polymorphism at the position 7921bp (CCT/TCT-transition) which results in amino acid changes at codon positions 169 (P/S), and one synonymous single nucleotide polymorphism at the position 8187 bp T/ C. The study concluded that this SNP in PRL gene could be used as the potential molecular markers for egg production traits in chicken.
Potential effect of Nigella sativa against Diethylnitrosamine-induced hepatocarcinogenesis in rats
Authors: AHMED S. E. , BRELLOU (Γ. ΜΠΡΕΛΛΟΥ) G. , GAMEEL A. A. , LOUKOPOULOS (Π. ΛΟΥΚΟΠΟΥΛΟΣ) P. , VLEMMAS (Ι. ΒΛΕΜΜΑΣ) I.
Published: February 2018

Objective of the investigation was the study of potential protective effects of the watery extract of Nigella sativa against diethylnitrosamine induced hepatocarcinogenesis in rats. N. sativa was administered to rats for protection against diethylnitrosamine-induced hepatocarcinogenesis. It was administered prior to, simultaneously with or after injection of diethylnitrosamine. Five groups of Wister rats were used. Group A was administered diethylnitrosamine and N. sativa simultaneously, group B was administered only diethylnitrosamine and group C received only N. sativa. These three groups were maintained for up to eight weeks. Group D received N. sativa six weeks after administration ofdiethylnitrosamine,while group E (“protective group”) received N. sativa on day 1 and diethylnitrosamine six weeks later. These two groups were maintained for up to 12 weeks. All rats were subjected to partial hepatectomy to enhance carcinogenesis. P-isoform of glutathione s transferase (GST-P) was detected in the cytoplasm and nuclei of hepatocytes. The number of GST-P positive foci was significantly smaller in test groups (A, D, E), particularly in groups A and E, when compared with to those in group B, indicating that N. sativa has protective effects against diethylnitrosamine induced liver cancer in rats, even in the very early stages of hepatocarcinogenesis.
Determination of Mycoplasma bovis specific antibodies in blood sera of asymptomatic carriers-calves in three farms in the Republic of Serbia by using indirect ELISA assay
Authors: VOJINOVIĆ D. , VASIĆ A. , ŽUTIĆ J. , DURIČIĆ B. , ILIĆ Z. , JOVIČIĆ D. , RADOVANOVIĆ M. E.
Published: February 2018

Blood serum samples of asymptomatic carriers-calves were collected from three farms in the territory of the Republic of Serbia during 2011 and 2012. Commercial Mycoplasma bovis ELISA kit (Bio-X Diagnostics, Belgique) for serological diagnosis from cattle blood sera and milk was used in this research. Calves’ blood sera were tested using immunoenzymatic indirect ELISA assay as described by manufacturer’s instructions. From 5603 blood sera of asymptomatic carriers-calves 144 (2,57%) samples were tested positive for the presence of specific Mycoplasma bovis antibodies. In three different farms proportions of seropositive samples varied from 0,32% to 10,6% in regard to total number of tested samples from the individual farms. In this paper we present the results of Mycoplasma bovis prevalence in asymptomatic carriers-calves.
Intestinal morphograhy of broilers fed diets supplemented with perlite
Authors: GHIASI GHALEHKANDI J. , HASSANPOUR S. , EBRAHIMNEHZAD Y. , BEHESHTI R. , MAHERI-SIS N.
Published: February 2018

Aim of the study was to investigate effects of different levels of perlite on intestinal morphometry in broilers (Ross 308). A hundred and eighty broiler cockerels were randomly allocated into three experimental groups (3 replications and 20 broilers per pen) and fed experimental diets supplemented with different levels of perlite (0%, 2%, 4%). At 21, 28, 35 and 42 days of the study, 2 broilers were randomly selected from  each replication, slaughtered and various sections of small intestine (1, 10, 30, 50, 70 and 90% of small intestine length) sampled for morphometry characteristics. Villi height, crypts depth and villus height / crypt depth ratio were measured microscopically. According to the results, a significant difference was observed on small intestine morphology post-perlite supplementation in experimental groups compared to control group. Supplementation of diet with perlite (2%) significantly increased average villi height in various sections of small intestine (1, 70 and 90%) in experimental birds on days 28 and 35 (P < 0.05). In addition, similar findings were observed after addition of perlite (4%) on villi height on day 42 (P <0.05). Furthermore, on day 28, average villi height and depth of liberkuhn crypts in small intestine (10%) differed significantly in cockerels fed diets containing 2% perlite in comparison to controls (P < 0.05). These results suggest that supplementation of perlite in broilers’ diet can improve intestinal morphometry.
Decreased production in broiler breeders due to tendon rupture by Mycoplasma synoviae
Authors: MOREIRA F. A. , CARDOSO L. , COELHO A. C.
Published: February 2018

An outbreak of lameness occurred in a broiler breeder flock (30,000 birds into four houses) of a multi-age farm, with a total of two broiler breeder flocks (60,000 birds in total). The leg lesions began soon after facilities transfer between 22 and 24 weeks of age and persisted for the rest of the flock’s life, until 64 weeks of age. Post-mortem examination at the farm revealed arthritis lesions and synovitis affecting the hock joint and the foot pads. Mycoplasma synoviae was detected in birds from the affected flock by serologic and molecular techniques. Treatments with fluoroquinolones in drinking water reduced the number of cases, but morbidity continued and affected the standard production rates.
The diagnostic approach to anaemia in the dog and cat
Authors: PALTRINIERI SAVERIO
Published: February 2018

The term anaemia indicates a pathologic condition characterized by a decreased concentration of hemoglobin (Hb) in blood, usually associated with a decreased number of erythrocytes (RBC) and/or of hematocrit (Ht). Anaemia depends on two pathogenic mechanisms: 1) decreased RBC production due toxic, infectious or idiopathic bone marrow diseases or to metabolic, neoplastic or infectious diseases that secondarily affect erythropoiesis, leading to the so-called “non regenerative anaemia”, on which no reticulocytes are released in blood from bone marrow; 2) decreased lifespan of mature RBC due to acute blood loss or hemolysis that leads to “regenerative anaemia” in which reticulocytes are released in blood as an attempt to restore the RBC mass. A stepwise diagnostic approach to anaemic dogs and cats may allow first to identify which of the two mechanisms is involved in the pathogenesis of anaemia, then to identify the possible cause of decreased RBC production or of decreased RBC lifespan. This approach must include clinical data, information regarding gross appearance of the sample, actual values of RBC counts, Ht and Hb concentration, RBC indexes (MCV, MCH, MCHC, RDW) and the magnitude of the reticulocyte response. Morphology of blood cells and additional laboratory tests may further address the diagnosis. With rare exceptions, non regenerative anaemia is normocytic normochromic,while regenerative anaemia is macrocytic hypochromic and characterized by anisocytosis and polychromasia, since reticulocytes are larger and have less Hb than mature RBC. However, blood loss or hemolytic anaemia are initially “pre-regenerative” (normocytic and normochromic), then they shift to the macrocytic hypochromic pattern in a few days, when reticulocytosis becomes relevant. Microcytic hypochromic anaemia is usually associated with iron deficiency. Once anaemia is classified into one of the categories listed above, morphology of RBC may suggest the possible cause, especially in regenerative anaemia, when the shape of RBC may be consistent with oxidative damage (eccentrocytes, Heinz bodies), immune-mediated mechanisms (agglutination, spherocytes, schistocytes, etc) or infectious diseases (e.g. mycoplasmosis, babesiosis). If needed, bone marrow cytology, Coomb’s test or flow cytometric detection of anti-RBC antibodies, coagulation profiles or additional biochemical or serological tests may be used to finalize the diagnostic approach.
Acute phase proteins in diagnostics: more than expected
Authors: CERON J. J. , MARTINEZ-SUBIELA S. , TECLES F. , CALDIN M.
Published: February 2018

The objective of this review is to provide updated information about how acute phase proteins (APPs) can be used in the process of diagnosis in veterinary medicine. For this purpose, recommendations about assay methodologies and basic principles regarding clinical application of APPs will be provided. In addition, the use of APPs for (1) the detection and quantification of inflammatory response, (2) the diagnosis of the underlying etiology and (3) the detection of selected non-inflammatory processes will be reviewed with practical examples.
Neuro-ophthalmological abnormalities in neurological diseases of dogs and cats: a retrospective study of 114 cases (2010-2015)
Authors: BRISIMI (ΝΙΚΟΛΕΤΤΑ-ΜΑΡΙΑ ΜΠΡΙΣΙΜΗ) N. M. , LIATIS (ΘΕΟΦΑΝΗΣ ΛΙΑΤΗΣ ) Th. K. , KOMNENOU (ΑΝΑΣΤΑΣΙΑ ΚΟΜΝΗΝΟΥ) A. , CHARALAMBIDOU (ΓΛΥΚΕΡΙΑ ΧΑΡΑΛΑΜΠΙΔΟΥ) G. , SOUBASIS (ΝΕΚΤΑΡΙΟΣ ΣΟΥΜΠΑΣΗΣ) N. , POLIZOPOULOU (ΖΩΗ ΠΟΛΥΖΟΠΟΥΛΟΥ) Z. S.
Published: February 2018

The current retrospective study includes 99 canine and 15 feline cases with neurologic disease accompanied by neuro-ophthalmological abnormalities (blindness, strabismus, nystagmus, anisocoria, miosis, mydriasis, Horner’s syndrome). All cases were presented in the Companion Animal Clinic of the School of Veterinary Medicine – Faculty of Health Sciences (Aristotle University of Thessaloniki) over a six-year period (2010-2015). The most frequent presenting complaints were head tilt (n=22/99) and paresis/paralysis (n=22/99) in dogs and head tilt (n=3/15) and ataxia (n=3/15) in cats. The most common neuro-ophthalmological abnormalities were strabismus (n=55/99) in dogs and anisocoria (n=7/15) in cats. The localization of lesions was found to be multifocal (n=38/99), and focal, in the vestibular system (n=37/99) in dogs, whilst in cats it was solely multifocal (n=6/15). An etiological diagnosis was reached only in 48 dogs and 10 cats; the former were mainly diagnosed with distemper encephalitis (10/48) and congenital hydrocephalus (6/48) and the latter mostly with encephalitis (n=5/10). Neuro-ophthalmological cases reached a 18.24% of the total neurologic case load (n=625) admitted during a six-year period. Neuro-ophthalmological examination as well as the correlation of the observed abnormalities with the overall neurological symptomatology is important for the neuroanatomic diagnosis, the assessment of severity and prognosis of the respected mainly diseases.
Changes in oxidative stress markers during electro-ejaculation procedure in merino rams
Authors: FIDAN A. F. , YENI D. , AVDATEK F. , ÖZÇINAR Ü. , HAZMAN Ö.
Published: February 2018

Electro-ejaculation is a technique used to collect semen from rams. The aim of the study was to evaluate the stress response and the oxidant/antioxidant levels during electro-ejaculation (EE) procedure in merino rams. To assess the effect of this technique, six 3-4 years old merino rams were subjected to semen collection by EE. The technique was applied one time in previously untreated animals. The studied parameters [Heart and respiratory rate, rectal temperature, white blood cell count (WBC), red blood cell count (RBC), hemoglobin (Hb) levels, hematocrit (Hct) value, blood malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione (GSH) concentrations, plasma cortisol, nitric oxide (NO), glucose, cholesterol and triglyceride concentrations as well as plasma total antioxidant status (TAS) and total oxidant status (TOS)] were measured before and immediately after electrical stimulation. Heart and respiratory rate, WBC, MDA, glucose, cholesterol and triglyceride concentrations as well as plasma TOS and cortisol concentrations were dramatically increased after EE procedure, whereas rectal temperature, TAS and GSH concentrations were significantly decreased. These results demonstrate that MDA, GSH, TAS and TOS were the most powerful markers for evaluating the oxidant/antioxidant status in merino rams. Furthermore, EE procedure was a stressful situation leading to an oxidative stress, which can be amplified by increased glucocorticoid secretion.
Molecular investigation and geographical distribution of Leishmania spp infection in stray and owned cats (Felis catus) in Thessaly, central Greece
Authors: GIANNAKOPOULOS A. , TSOKANA C. N. , PAPADOPOULOS E. , SPYROU V. , CHATZOPOULOS D. C. , VALIAKOS G. , TOULOUDI A. , ATHANASIOU L. V. , BILLINIS C.
Published: February 2018

In this study we aimed to determine the prevalence of Leishmania spp infection and to report the geographical distribution of Leishmania spp infected cats from Thessaly, central Greece, an endemic region for canine and human leishmaniosis. Blood samples were collected from a total of 150 cats (34 stray and 116 owned) from the area of Thessaly, i.e. Larissa (n=6), Volos (n=94), Trikala (n=30) and Karditsa (n=20). Data on signalment and living conditions were registered for each cat. The samples were tested by Internal Transcribed Spacer 1 nested PCR (ITS1 nested PCR). Geographical Information System (GIS) was used to define the geographical distribution of the Leishmania spp infected cats in relation to the land uses and the altitude. In total, 13.3% (95% CI: 8.3-19.8) of the sampled cats were found positive for Leishmania spp DNA. More precisely, the results are 12.8% (95% CI 6.8-21.2) in Volos, 20% (95% CI 6.8-21.2) in Trikala and 10% (95% CI 12-31.7) in Karditsa while none of the six cats examined from the region of Larissa was found PCR positive. The Leishmania spp infected cats were found in artificial surfaces and associated areas and in cultivated and managed areas with a mean altitude of 81,7 m above sea level (range 14 - 225 ± 51.57 SD). No significant correlation was found between Leishmania spp infection and signalment or living conditions, thus suggest ing that the infection is uniformly distributed among the screened feline population. The findings of this study along with the occurrence of competent vectors of Leishmania infantum in Thessaly, support the hypothesis that cats may serve as a reservoir for Leishmania spp in this region and highlight the need for surveillance in feline population and implementation of control measures. However, the epidemiological role of cats in the maintenance and transmission of Leishmania spp has yet to be defined and deserves further investigation.
Alternative treatment for proximal suspensory desmitis in the hind limb: retrospective study in seven horses
Authors: TYRNENOPOULOU (Π. ΤΥΡΝΕΝΟΠΟΥΛΟΥ) P. , DIAKAKIS (Ν. ΔΙΑΚΑΚΗΣ) N.
Published: February 2018

Proximal suspensory desmitis (PSD) has become a frequently diagnosed condition commonly affecting athletic horses. In this study, seven horses with PSD in a pelvic limb were included. Definitive diagnosis was based on clinical signs, results of local anesthesia and ultrasonographic and radiographic examination. Following the initial anti-inflammatory treatment, PSD was treated with an alternative, minimally invasive method, including series of periligamentous injections containing mepivacaine hydrochloride, heparin sodium, a preparation containing natural ingredients and deproteinised haemoderivative of calf blood. Depending on the severity of each case, all horses returned to full work after 8 to 12 weeks.
Small Ruminant Lenti-virus infection in imported sheep in Greece
Authors: GIADINIS (Ν.Δ. ΓΙΑΔΙΝΗΣ) N. D. , DOVAS (Χ.Ι. ΔΟΒΑΣ) C. I. , CHATZINASIOU (E. ΧΑΤΖΗΝΑΣΙΟΥ) E. , BOUZALAS (Η. ΜΠΟΥΖΑΛΑΣ) I. , ARSENOS (Γ. ΑΡΣΕΝΟΣ) G. , PAPANASTASSOPOYLOU (Μ. ΠΑΠΑΝΑΣΤΑΣΣΟΠΟΥΛΟΥ) M.
Published: February 2018

During the last years, a large number of Assaf-E sheep have been brought into Greece from Spain. In total, 57 randomly selected Assaf-E sheep purchased from Spain to five 5 different farms in Greece were examined serologically on arrival for Small Ruminant Lentiviruses. Of these, 25 animals were found to be seropositive against Small Ruminant Lentiviruses.Taking into account the above findings, we suggest a more strict legislation at the sheep sales.
Antibiotic resistance and distribution of SodCI, sopE, sefA genes among Salmonella enteric serotype Enteritidis isolates from poultry
Authors: EKATERINIADOU (Λ.Β. ΑΙΚΑΤΕΡΙΝΙΑΔΟΥ) L. V. , BOUKOUVALA (Ε. ΜΠΟΥΚΟΥΒΑΛΑ) E. , PAPI (Ρ.Μ. ΠΑΠΗ) R. M. , ZDRAGAS (Α. ΖΔΡΑΓΚΑΣ) A. , GIANTZI (Β. ΓΙΑΝΤΖΗ) V. , KYRIAKIDIS (Δ.Α. ΚΥΡΙΑΚΙΔΗΣ) D. A.
Published: February 2018

Present work aimed to examine the antibiotic resistance of the Salmonella enterica serotype Enteritidis (SE) isolates from poultry, to study the plasmid-mediated ampicillin resistance and to detect and determine the distribution of sodCI, sopE and sefA genes. Thirty-five SE isolates from one-day chicks, layers and broilers were studied for susceptibility/resistance to sixteen antimicrobial agents; 23 (65.7%) of them showed resistance to ampicillin, 5 (14.3%) to ampicillin and tetracycline, 4 (11.45%) to tetracycline and 1 (2.9%) isolate showed multi-drug resistance. Ampicillin (AmpR) and ampicillin/tetracycline (AmpRTeR) resistance was easily transferred by conjugation, and all isolates except two possessed a common band. The molecular mass of the plasmid carrying ampicillin resistance was approximately determined at 41kb after DNA digestion with BamHI, HindIII, EcoRI, EcoRV and PstI restriction enzymes and ligation of EcoRI fragments to pET29c. For the detection of TEM-1 or/and TEM-2 ß-lactamases, two pairs of primers were used in a polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The PCR products showed the presence of blaTEM-1 gene in all isolates. The presence of SodCI, sopE, sefA genes was also examined by PCR. Twenty-two (62,8%) isolates carried the sodCI gene, thirty-four (97,2%) isolates carried the sopE gene and all isolates carried the sefA fimbrial locus.
Detection of Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis by several diagnostics techniques in clinical suspected sheep
Authors: COELHO A. C. , COELHO A. M. , GARCÍA-DIEZ J. , PIRES M. A. , PINTO M. L.
Published: February 2018

A total of thirty sheep with clinical symptomatology of paratuberculosis (Johne’s disease) were subjected to four diagnostic techniques: histopathological examination, bacteriological culture (in faeces and tissues), polymerase chain reaction (PCR) (in blood, tissue and faecal samples) and antibody responses (ELISA). Twenty-one (70.0%) animals showed histological lesions. Bacterial culture of both faeces and tissue revealed that 2 (6.7%) and 6 (20.0%) of the 30 sheep were infected, respectively. Mycobacterium avium subsp. 24 paratuberculosis (Map) was identified in 4 animals via PCR of faeces (13.3%), and in 19 (63.3%) by PCR in tissues. PCR in blood revealed 7 (23.3%) infected animals. Three (10.0%) animals showed antibodies against Map. A greater number of positive animals were detected by histopathological examination and PCR in tissues than by culture or ELISA. This study confirmed the clinical findings and results suggest that histopathology, PCR in tissues and in blood can improve the detection of Map in physically suspected animals and should be considered useful tools in the diagnosis of Map in suspected sheep.
Prevalence of Linguatula serrata infection in domestic ruminants from Meshkin Shahr, Iran
Authors: ESMAEILNEJAD Β. , GHAREKHANI J. , REZAEI H. , GOLABI M. , MOLAYI N.
Published: February 2018

Linguatula serrata is an aberrant cosmopolitan parasite, which inhabits the canine respiratory system (final host). The domestic ruminants such as sheep, goats, cattle and buffaloes (intermediate hosts) play the important role for transmission of parasite to humans and animals. The current investigation aimed to investigate the prevalence of L. serrata infection in domestic ruminants in Meshkin Shahr, Northwest of Iran. In cross-sectional study between March 2013 and March 2014, the mesenteric lymph nodes (MLNs) of 753 sheep, 403 goats, 657 cattle, and 341 buffaloes were sampled in Meshkin Shahr slaughterhouse, randomly. All of samples were examined for L. serrata infection using parasitology methods. The prevalence rate was reported 26.30% in goats, 18.32% in sheep, 14.30% in cattle, and 13.19% in buffaloes (P<0.05). In all animals, a significant difference were found between infection rate and different seasons (P<0.05), opposite to different age groups. Also, there was significant differences between infection rate and gender in cattle (P=0.024, OR=1.6) and buffaloes (P=0.034, OR=2), unlike to sheep and goats (P>0.05). This study was demonstrated of linguatulosis in domestic ruminants from Northwest of Iran for first time. According to our findings, Meshkin Shahr is a new endemic region for L. serrata infection in Iran. Since the linguatulosis is a zoonotic parasitic disease, preventive measures to break the parasite’s life cycle and reduce the risk of infection in humans and animals is highly recommended.
Morphometric and histological features of the testicles of cultured male broodstock African Catfish (Clarias gariepinus) at different ages
Authors: NWABUISI OKOYE CHIDOZIE , UDOUMOH ANIETIE FRANCIS , OMUBOBA DAN-JUMBO SUSAN , UCHENNA EZE UKAMAKA , CHUKWUEMEKA OZOKOYE ANTHONY , HULDA UGWU ONYINYECHI
Published: February 2018

Testicular tissues obtained from 25 apparently healthy broodstock African Catfish (Clarias gariepinus) of 6, 8, 9, 10 and 12 months old were used to investigate the morphological adaptations of the testicles suitable for reproductive exercises. The result showed that the mean gonadosomatic indices of the pooled testicles of the catfish increased linearly from 0.30 ± 0.02, 0.34 ± 0.01, 0.45 ± 0.09 at 6, 8, and 9 months of age respectively and peaked at 12 months with a GSI value of 0.61±0.13. Moreover, the epithelial height of the seminiferous tubules of 9 month old catfish was significantly (P<0.05) higher than the epithelial heights of the 6, 8, 10 and 12 month old fish. The luminal diameters of the seminiferous tubules of the testicles of 10 and 12 months old catfish were significantly (P<0.05) higher than the luminal diameters of the 6, 8 and 9 months old fish. The encapsulated testicles of the catfish exhibited seminiferous lobules which contained spermatogenic cells in cysts. However, at 10 months, there were partial distortion of the cystic distribution of the spermatogenic cells and occasional loss of the germinal epithelium while evidences of necrosis of some of the cells of the seminiferous epithelium were recorded in the testicles of 12 months old fish. Finally, the present study has provided morphological evidences that the use of gonadosomatic indices alone in the determination of the reproductive state of a fish population may give an erroneous picture and that the 8 and 9 months old broodstock African Catfish (Clarias gariepinus) may be most suitable for breeding exercises.