bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Induction of multiple ovulation in rabbits using PMSG and hCG
Authors: SARATSI (Α. ΣΑΡΑΤΣΗ) A. , TSILIGIANNI (Θ. ΤΣΙΛΙΓΙΑΝΝΗ) Th. , BESENFELDER U. , ANASTASIADIS (Α. ΑΝΑΣΤΑΣΙΑΔΗΣ) A. , VAINAS (Ε. ΒΑΪΝΑΣ) E. , BREM G.
Published: February 2018

In the present study, the feasibility of the effective use of a simplified method for multiple ovulation and for the collection of oocytes-zygotes-embryos (O-Z-E) was investigated. The relationship between the number and quality of O-Z-E and the color of the mucosa of the vulva was also studied. Thirty five New Zealand does and 5 California bucks were used. Does were given one dose of 20 IU/Kg BW of PMSG i.m. Artificial insemination (AI) and administration of a dose of 120 IU/animal of hCG i.v. were carried out 3 days later. Does were sacrificed 19h after AI and the O-Z-E were collected by flushing of the oviducts. 54,24% of the does presented multiple ovulation (Group A), 40,00% did not present the expected (< 10 corpora lutea) reaction (group B) and 5,71% presented no reaction at all to hormone administration. The mean values of O-Z-E collected was 18,53±10,77 in group A and 6,69±5,49 in group Β (P<0,05). However, the mean values of O-Z-E in each group were similar in does presenting different color of the mucosa of the vulva. The color of the mucosa of the vulva was not related to multiple ovulation rates in both groups. In group A, the highest (P<0,05) percentage of O-Z-E was collected from does presenting red color of the mucosa of the vulva (96,20%) and the lowest from does presenting purple color (66,08%). However, the color of the mucosa of the vulva did not affect the percentage of zygotes-embryos (Z-E) that were appropriate for use and ranged from 65,71 to 72,67%. In group B, the color of the mucosa of the vulva did not affect the percentage of O-Z-E, that ranged from 84,00 to 96,43%. However, the percentage of Z-E that were appropriate for further use (a Z-E) was significantly different (P<0,05) and ranged from 33,30% in does presenting rosy color to 84,38% in does presenting purple color of of the mucosa of the vulva. We conclude that, the results of this method are satisfactory and the color of the mucosa of the vulva may be used as a factor in the selection of donors.
Bacteriocins: Classification, properties, production and mode of action. (I)
Authors: METAXOPOULOS (Ι. ΜΕΤΑΞΟΠΟΥΛΟΣ) J. , MATARAGAS (Μ. ΜΑΤΑΡΑΓΚΑΣ) M. , DROSINOS (E. X. ΔΡΟΣΙΝΟΣ) E. H.
Published: February 2018

Bacteriocins are antimicrobial compounds synthesized by ribosomes. In the last years a variety of bacteriocins, produced by lactic acid bacteria, has been identified and characterized. As a result of these studies is that new knowledge regarding the biosynthesis, structure, production and mode of action of these proteinaceous compounds has been gained. The present review attempts to refer some of the available data with reference to the bacteriocins, which are important for the understanding of the whole mechanism of the production of bacteriocins. Additionally, some features and recent biology and biochemistry findings concerning these substances will be reported, in order to provide a general overview of the production and action of the bacteriocins.
Nutritional support and health care of orphan puppies or kittens during the first weeks of life
Authors: GOULETSOU (Π. ΓΚΟΥΛΕΤΣΟΥ) P. , FTHENAKIS (Γ. Χ. ΦΘΕΝΑΚΗΣ) G. C. , GALATOS (Α.Δ. ΓΑΛΑΤΟΣ) A. D.
Published: February 2018

In this paper, actions and measures necessary for the nutritional support and health care of orphan puppies or kittens during the first weeks of life, are reviewed. Special reference is made to measures taken in order to provide ideal environmental conditions and proper nutrition, and to support urination, defecation and cleanliness of the newborn.
Cutaneous transmissible venereal tumor with internal metastases in two dogs
Authors: THEODOROU (Κ. ΘΕΟΔΩΡΟΥ) K. , MYLONAKIS (Μ.Ε. ΜΥΛΩΝΑΚΗΣ) M. E. , FARMAKI (Ρ. ΦΑΡΜΑΚΗ) R. , PATSIKAS (M.N. ΠΑΤΣΙΚΑΣ) M. N. , LOUKOPOULOS (Π. ΛΟΥΚΟΠΟΥΛΟΣ) P. , POUTAHIDIS (Θ. ΠΟΥΤΑΧΙΔΗΣ) T. , SOUBASIS (Ν. ΣΟΥΜΠΑΣΗΣ) N. , VERVERIDIS (Χ. ΒΕΡΒΕΡΙΔΗΣ) H. , KOUTINAS (Α. ΚΟΥΤΙΝΑΣ) A. F.
Published: February 2018

Two intact male dogs, a 6-ycar-old Siberian husky (case one) and an 18-year-old Old Fnglish sheepdog-cross (case two), were admitted to the Companion Animal Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thcssaloniki (AUTh), with a single or multiple cutaneous masses, respectively. Fine needle aspiration (FNA) smears obtainedfrom the masses revealed the typical cytological features of transmissible venereal tumor (TVT) in both instances, while Leishmania infantum infection was diagnosed in the second case. In both dogs, distant metastases within the spleen and liver were diagnosed by ultra sonography-assisted FN A cytology, laparotomy-facilitated hi stop atho logy and computed tomography (case one) or post-mortem cytology and histopathology (case two). Vincristine sulphate (two weekly sessions) followed by doxorubicin chemotherapy (five .1-week sessions) failed to achieve clinical remission in case one, while the dog in case two was euthanized without any therapeutic effort. This study describes the clinical, imaging, cytologic and pathologic findings of two dogs with primary cutaneous TVT metastasized internally, Chemotherapy resistance, rarely recorded in TVT, was documented in one of them, whereas concurrent Leishmania infection in the other dog might have provoked the dissemination of TVT presumably due to the Le is h mania associated immunosuppression.
Feline bartonellosis· A review
Authors: ATHANASIOU (Λ.Β. ΑΘΑΝΑΣΙΟΥ) L. V. , CHATZIS (Μ.Κ. ΧΑΤΖΗΣ) M. K. , KONTOU (Ι. B. ΚΟΝΤΟΥ) I. V. , KONTOS (Β. I. ΚΟΝΤΟΣ) V. I. , SPYROU (B. ΣΠΥΡΟΥ) V.
Published: February 2018

Bartonella infection is caused by Gram negative bacteria commonly isolated from domestic cats. Cats are the major reservoir of Bartonella henselae, B. clarridgeiae and B. koehlerae which are transmitted to humans, while they are accidental host of B, quintana. Β, bovis και Β, vìmonìi subsp. berkhoffìi. The pathogen is transmitted among cats mainlyby fleas while other vectors are also suspicious for transmission since the bacteria have been isolated from ticks and flies.The bacterial pathogenicity may be emphasized by the strain of the bacterium and the immune status of the infected host. Most of the infected eats remain asymptomatic. In the natural occurring cases of feline bartonellosis uveitis, chronic gingivostomatitis and endocarditis have been reported. Mild anemia and leucocitosi s in the early phase of the infection has been also reported. Diagnosis is based on the detection of the specific anti-bartoneila antibodies by the inderict immunofluorescent test, ELISA and Western blot assays. Molecular biology techniques mainly PCR, cytology, histopathology and blood culture have also been employed for the direct detection of the pathogen. Prolonged antimicrobial therapy results to the reduction of bacterial burden without total elimination of the pathogen.Bartonella henselae is the causative agent of cat scratch disease, a human infection usually characterized by persistent regional lymphadenopathy and less frequently fever while angiomatosis or hepatic peliosis have been reported mainly in immunocompromised patients. It is transmitted to humans by cat scratches or bites. The most effective means of protection is regular flea control Additionally, commonsense precautions and hygiene such as washing hands after handling pets and clean any cats and bites or scratches promptly are recommended especially in population at great risk.
Treatment of canine leishmaniosis: An update.
Authors: SARIDOMICHELAKIS (Μ. Ν. ΣΑΡΙΔΟΜΙΧΕΛΑΚΗΣ) M. N. , KOUTINAS (Α.Φ. ΚΟΥΤΙΝΑΣ) A. F. , MYLONAKIS (Μ.Ε. ΜΥΛΩΝΑΚΗΣ) M. E.
Published: February 2018

The drugs, currently recommended in the treatment of canine leishmaniosis, include meglumine antimonate, allopurinol, paromomycin (aminosidine) and amphotericin B. With the exception of meglumine antimonate, where an optimal dosage has been established (75 mg/Kg BW, every 12 hours, SC), that of allopurinol (10-20 mg/Kg, BW BID, per os), paromomycin (5-10 mg/Kg BW BID, SC or IM) and amphotericin Β (0,5-0.8 mg/Kg BW, 2-3 times weekly, IV, up to a total dose of 8-15 mg/Kg BW), still remains empirical. Although the side effects are relatively few and harmless with the use of meglumine antimonate and allopurinol, they are often life-threatening with paromomycin (ototoxic, nephrotoxic) or amphotericin Β(nephrotoxic). Although the current antileishmanial medications result in the clinical cure of the affected animals and may decrease the contamination potential of sandflies, a parasitological cure is not but occasionally achieved. Therefore, prolonged administration of allopurinol, with or without the intermittent use of meglumine antimonate, is recommended in an attempt to avoid clinical flare-ups. However, repeated cycles of treatment with meglumine antimonate may lead to the emergence of resistant Leishmania spp clones. Withdrawal of medication is justified only when two PCR tests, done on bone marrow samples, 6-months apart, are negative. In the future, the use of cytokines produced by activated Th-1 cells (INF-γ, IL-2, IL-12), may resolve the controversial issue of permanent cure in the dog.
Storage stability of vacuum-packaged hotsmoked Rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) fillets: color and texture aspects
Authors: ELEFTHERIADOU (Α. ΕΛΕΥΘΕΡΙΑΔΟΥ) A. , VARELTZIS (Κ. ΒΑΡΕΛΤΖΗΣ) K. , AMVROSIADIS (,1. ΑΜΒΡΟΣΙΑΔΗΣ) I. , GEORGAKIS (ΣΠ. ΓΕΩΡΓΑΚΗΣ) S.
Published: February 2018

The aim of this research was to investigate some problems related to Rainbow trout's (Oncorhynchus mykiss) hot-smoking process as well as the color texture evaluation of the final product. The skin-on and skin-off fillets were hot-smoked and kept in vacuum-packed storage at 2°C±0.1. Color and texture measurements and biochemical analysis were carried out during 120 days of storage on days 1, 45, 75 and 120. The results have showed no significant differences between skin-on and ski-off fillets in carotenoids and retinol content. This values were reduced from 0,4-0,5 and 0,08-0,10 mg/g (1st day) to 0,2 and 0,04 mg/g by day 45 respectively. Thereafter they remained unchanged until the end of the storage. However, they were proved sufficient for the stability of the red color of the final product, as the a* value remained fairly constant, during the whole storage period. Significant differences between skin-on and skin-off fillets were observed in their external surface color. Both L* and a* values were lower in skin-off fillets and this is probably attributed to the more intense dehydration and absorption of the smoke constituents in this fillets. Moreover, the filleting of raw material before processing, resulted in both complete absence of fish gapping in the end product and satisfactory texture, which remained the same during the whole storage period.
Canine cutaneous papilloma. Study of seven cases.
Authors: KALDRYMIDOU (Ε. ΚΑΛΔΡΥΜΙΔΟΥ) E. , PAPAIOANNOU (Ν. ΠΑΠΑΪΩΑΝΝΟΥ) N. , POUTACHIDIS (Θ. ΠΟΥΤΑΧΙΔΗΣ) Th. , Van GARDENER E. , KARAYANNOPOULOU (Μ. ΚΑΡΑΠΑΝΝΟΠΟΥΛΟΥ) M.
Published: February 2018

Seven cases of canine papilloma were studied histopathologically using light and electron microscopy. Papillomavirus was detected immunohistochemically and by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method. The classical squamous papilloma was found in four dogs (#1,2,3,4), the inverted papilloma in one dog (#5) and the fibropapilloma in two dogs (#6,7).Virus particles were detected electromicroscopically in two cases (#1,2). Immunohistochemistry, revealed the presence of the papillomavirus antigen in three cases (#1,2,3). The PCR method resulted in positive for COPV in two cases (#1,2). These results support the view that except for the canine oral papillomavirus, there might be other types ofpapillomavirus that induce papilloma in dogs.
Assessment of some health parameters in West African Pygmy Goats and Cameroon Dwarf Sheep of a Zoo in Greece
Authors: TAHAS (Σ.Α. ΤΑΧΑΣ) S. A. , GIADINIS (Ν.Δ. ΓΙΑΔΙΝΗΣ) N. D. , KRITSEPI-KONSTANTINOU (Μ. ΚΡΙΤΣΕΠΗ-ΚΩΝΣΤΑΝΤΙΝΟΥ) M. , PAPADOPOULOS (Η.ΠΑΠΑΔΟΠΟΥΛΟΣ) E. , PETRIDOU (Ε.Ι. ΠΕΤΡΙΔΟΥ) E. J. , POSANTZIS (Δ. ΠΟΣΑΝΤΖΗΣ) D. , DOVAS (ΔΟΒΑΣ Χ.Ι.) C. I.
Published: February 2018

Ten A frican pygmy goats and five Cameroon sheep from the Attica Zoological Park in Greece were examined for some health parameters including a thorough clinical examination, haematology, serum biochemistry, serological and P CR examination for small ruminant lentivirus, milk bacteriology for common pathogens of clinical or subclinical mastitis and faecal parasitology. These were compared with the existing literature for these two exotic breeds of small ruminants. Haematologic and biochemistry values are compared to existing literature for the pygmy goats whereas this is the first report of such values in Cameroon sheep. A ll animals proved clinically healthy and were free of common pathogens found in small ruminants in Greece as well as for intestinal and respiratory parasites
Clinical, clinicopathological and diagnostic imaging findings in 14 dogs with suspected fibrocartilaginous embolic myelopathy
Authors: POLIZOPOULOU (Ζ.Σ. ΠΟΛΥΖΟΠΟΥΛΟΥ) Z. S. , KARNEZI (Δ. ΚΑΡΝΕΖΗ) D. , KARNEZI (ΚΑΡΝΕΖΗ Γ.) G.
Published: February 2018

Fibrocartilaginous embolic myelopathy was diagnosed in 14 dogs with acute neurological dysfunction, based on history, findings of clinical examination, diagnostic imaging evaluation, follow-up and outcome. The dogs were presented with signs of variable involvement of the spinal cord, which were lateralized in 4 cases. The initial clinicopathological evaluation was unremarkable, while cerebrospinal fluid analysis was abnormal in one dog. Diagnostic imaging investigation (plain radiographs of the spinal column and myelography) did not reveal any abnormalities in the vertebrae and adjacent tissues or compression of the spinal cord, with the exception of one case, where there was evidence of focal intramedullary oedema corresponding to the lesion location. Seven dogs improved significantly with supportive treatment; complete remission of clinical signs was evident in two. Moderate improvement was seen in three animals and minimal or no improvement in four dogs, which were euthanised due to persisting neurological incapacitation.
The occurrence of schistosomus reflexus in bovine dystocia.
Authors: KIPOURIDIS (Κ. ΚΗΠΟΥΡΙΔΗΣ) K. , KARAGIANNIDIS (Α. ΚΑΡΑΓΙΑΝΝΙΔΗΣ) A.
Published: February 2018

The literature concerning incidence and etiology of schistosomusreflexus in domestic animals is reviewed and an interestingcase of dystocia in a twin pregnancy (with a normal and aschistosomus reflexus fetus) is described. Examination of thereproductive records in 210 dairy cow units of Pentalofosregion with 10000 cows approximately during a 17-yearperiod (1982-1999) showed that in 2050 cases of bovinedystocia attended, only 1 (0.05%) was caused by schistosomusreflexus and treated by Caesarean section.
Effect of the dietary inclusion of a natural zeolite (clinoptilolite) on aerial ammonia level in pig houses
Authors: SAOULIDIS (Κ. ΣΑΟΥΛΙΔΗΣ) K. , ALEXOPOULOS (Κ. ΑΛΕΞΟΠΟΥΛΟΣ) C. , PAPAIOANNOU (Δ.Σ. ΠΑΠΑΪΩΑΝΝΟΥ) D. S. , KRITAS (Σ.Κ. ΚΡΗΤΑΣ) S. K. , KYRIAKIS (Σ.K. ΚΥΡΙΑΚΗΣ) S. C.
Published: February 2018

The beneficial effect of dietary inclusion of natural zeolites on the growth of the animals and on reducing ammonia levels in livestock buildings, has been escribed. The objective of the present study was to determine the effect of the dietary  inclusion of a natural zeolite (clinoptilolite) on the ammonia level in a Greek "farrow-to-finish" pig unit. Animals participating in the study were of the same genetic background and were divided into two main experimental groups depending on the inclusion or not of clinoptilolite (groups Ζ and Νrespectively) and four experimental subgroups depending on the inclusion or not of antimicrobials in the feed (subgroups Zl9 Nx and Z2, N2 respectively). Aerial ammonia level measurements were carried out using diffusion tubes (Dräger tubes) at the end of each growth stage (weaning, growing and fattening stages). In order to ensure the accuracy of the measurements, in each barn, animals of the same experimental subgroup were allocated. The results of this study demonstrate that the incorporation of clinoptilolite in swine feed had a favorable effect on aerial ammonia level. Significantly lower levels (P<0,05) were obtained in Zl subgroup at the end of the fattening stage. Comparing the results among the main experimental groups (Z and N), the decreasing effect on ammonia level (P<0,05) was evident at the end of the growing and the fattening stages.
Culture and sporulation of Paenibacillus larvae larvae (White) in not specific culture media
Authors: FYLAKTOU (Α. ΦΥΛΑΚΤΟΥ) A. , LIAKOS (Β. ΛΙΑΚΟΣ) B. , ILIADIS (Ν. ΗΛΙΑΔΗΣ) N.
Published: February 2018

In this experimental study the culture possibility and the sporulation ability of Paenibacillus larvae larvae (White), in simple and compound not specific culture media, in aerobic and anaerobic conditions and in an atmosphere of 5-10% C02 in air, were investigated. The results indicated that P.l.larvae could be cultured in normal culture media, in aerobic or anaerobic conditions. However its growth is significantly delayed and only after 48-72 h incubation, its demonstration becomes evident. In specific culture media like blood agar and Brucella agar and atmosphere of 5-10% C02 in air, it can be developed faster, sporulated more and demonstrated easier. Development and sporulation of P.l.larvae was better in Brucella agar than in blood agar.
Sugar profile determination of four pure Greek honeys by gas-chromatography
Authors: TYRPENOU (Α.Ε.ΤΥΡΠΕΝΟΥ) A. E.
Published: February 2018

Honey sugar determination was performed by using a combination of two methods (Iverson & Bueno, 1981 and Pierce no. 16, 1990) with some modifications. The proposed by Pierce method no.16, has been designed to assist in the routine determination of sugars in food products and syrups. Sugars are treated with hydroxylamine hydrochloride and the resulting oximes are converted to trimethylsilyl ethers by direct silylation with TMS. The derivatives are then determined by gas-chromatography with flame ionization detector and sugar oxime-TMS derivatives are quantitative and reproducible. This reaction is fast and simple, the results are quantitatively reproducible and multiple peaks due to the tautomeric forms of reducing sugars, which produced by direct TMS derivatization, are eliminated. From the honey samples analyzed it has been determined that only fir-tree honey contains trisaccharides with higher percentages that of melezitose.
Superovulation of prepubertal and young pubertal gilts with PMSG
Authors: ANASTASIADIS (Α. ΑΝΑΣΤΑΣΙΑΔΗΣ) A. , AMIRIDIS (Γ. Σ. ΑΜΟΙΡΙΔΗΣ) G. C. , LYMBEROPOULOS (Α.Γ. ΛΥΜΠΕΡΟΠΟΥΛΟΣ) A. G. , KORONAKI (Α. ΚΟΡΩΝΑΚΗ) A. , VAINAS (Ε. ΒΑΪΝΑΣ) E.
Published: February 2018

The feasibility of application of a standardized protocol for estrous synchronization, superovulation and embryo transfer in young pubertal and pre-pubertal gilts under farm conditions was investigated. Two groups of Large white X Landrace crossbreed gilts were used. Group A (n = 16) consisted of pubertal (>6months old ) animals weighing 100-110 kg while group Β (n=ll) consisted of prepubertal gilts weighing 75-80 kg. Superovulation and estrous synchronization was conducted by intramuscular administration of 1500 IU of PMSG and 750 IU of hCG given 12 and 72 hours after the transfer of the gilts to the service area (hour 0), respectively. At hours 96 and 108 the animals that exhibited estrous behavior (81,3 and 72.7% for groups A and Β respectively) were inseminated with fresh semen from a Large White boar containing 3xl09 progressively moving spermatozoa. Embryo collection took place 48 – 52 hours after the second insemination. No differences were detected in ovarian response, in the number of collected oocytes and in the number of fertilized ova between the two groups 31,5 ±16,9, 25,2±15,8, 17,5±9,9 and 44,6±22,4, 38,5 ±23,2, 21,6 ±9,5 for groups A and Β respectively. The proportion of fertilized ova was significantly higher in group A when compared to the one from group Β (75.7 vs 60.6% for group A and Β respectively, Ρ < 0.05). A negative correlation was also observed between the number of corpora lutea and fertilization rate (P< 0.0005). It is concluded that the present superovulation scheme can be used safely for sufficient embryo production from both prepubertal and pubertal gilts under farm conditions.
IgY extraction and purification from chicken egg yolk
Authors: BIZANOV G
Published: February 2018

The interest for immunoglobulin Y (IgY) isolation arises from the possible applications of these immunoglobulins in diagnostics and therapeutics. Powered whole eggs or yolks have been used in veterinary medicine as an inexpensive immunoglobulin Y source for the treatment of enteric diseases. Incorporating feed grade egg yolk antibodies into animal diets has been examined extensively in an attempt to limit pathogenic diarrhea causing by Escherichia coli in swine, and limit Salmonella establishment in calves and mice, as well as Campylobacter, Clostridium, and Salmonella in poultry. Thus, therapeutic administration of the IgY might reduce the clinical use of antibiotics, and minimize the risk of developing bacterial antibiotic resistance. Methods of immunoglobulins isolation and purification from hen yolk are reviewed. For a large-scale production, one of the problems is separating the water-soluble protein fraction from the lipids and other hydrophobic substances. Precipitation or aggregation of lipid occurs under various conditions: (1) by use of water dilution under acidic conditions; (2) by means of acids; (3) combination of solvents (chloroform, aceton) which selectively solubilize the lipids; (4) using of 3.5% polyethylene glycol and (5) by applying natural gums (polyanionic polysaccharides). Further purification of IgY after crude extraction can be achieved by selective precipitation. IgY precipitation can be carried out by salt precipitation using saturated solutions of sodium or ammonium sulphate, which dehydrate proteins. Furthermore, selective precipitation is achieved by using 8.8% sodium chloride or at 12% of polyethylene glycol. The methods comparison on the basis of IgY yield, showed that the mean IgY yield obtained by water dilution method or precipitation with salts, or by using polyethylene glycol was 5.6 mg/ml of egg yolk, 6.3 mg/ml of egg yolk and 8.7 mg/ml of egg yolk correspondingly and did not significantly differ between them. Water dilution method seemed to offer the best IgY recoveries. Moreover, this method in combination with chromatography and filtration can be applied easily in an industrial environment. Filtration technology offers the best opportunities for industrial applications while precipitation with polyethylene glycol or salts provides a cheap and easy methodology for laboratory use. In the production of safer foods, an important strategy is to exploit natural antimicrobial agents as alternatives to conventional synthetic chemical preservatives. In this regard, the IgY is of much interest for its potential application in fortified foods, such as administration for prevention of enteric diseases. The use of IgY is cost-effective.
Levels of certain biochemical and oxidative stress parameters in cattle with Brucellosis
Authors: BOZUKLUHAN K. , MERHAN O. , CELEBI O. , BUYUK F. , OGUN M. , GOKCE G.
Published: February 2018

The purpose of the present study was to determine concentrations of some biochemical parameters and oxidative stress levels in cattle with brucellosis. For this purpose, a study group included with 20 cattle with brucellosis and a control group with 10 clinically healthy cattle were used. Blood samples were collected into the tubes (with and without anticoagulant agent) from the Jugular vein of animals in each group. The reduced glutathione (GSH) in whole blood and levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and nitric oxide (NO) were determined spectrophotometrically. Additionally, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), urea, creatinine and iron (Fe) levels in serum samples were colorimetrically determined. Compared with the animals in the control group, it was determined that cattle with brucellosis had significantly (P<0.01) higher levels of AST, ALT, creatinine and NO and lower level of Fe. The increases of MDA and GSH levels were moderate and significantly important (P<0.05) while serum urea manner was not significantly altered. It was determined that significant alterations occurred in various biochemical parameters and antioxidant activity decreased in cattle with brucellosis.
Characterization of immunogenic protein fractions of Sheep Cysticercosis in Cairo, Egypt
Authors: MAHDY O. A. , MOUSA W. M. , ABDEL-MAOGOOD S. Z. , ABDEL-RADI S. , EL-BAHY M. M.
Published: February 2018

Cysticercosis is a parasitic infection that causes severe economic and public health problems. The overall incidence of infection in sheep slaughtered in Cairo, Egypt during meat inspection was 31.22% and precisely 19.72% for Cysticercus tenuicollis and 11.50% for C. ovis. Sera collected from infected animals used to evaluate the diagnostic efficacy of the extracted antigens using ELISA. The sensitivity of the test was 100% for both C. tenuicollis and C. ovis, while the specificity was 80.26% and 87.03%, respectively. Using EITB the fractions of 36 KDa and 23 KDa appears to be specific for diagnosis of C. tenuicollis; while, 77 KDa and 73 KDa were specific for diagnosis of C. ovis. Moreover, several protein fractions which were detected in all antigens extracted didn’t react with its target sera but at the same time did react specifically versus sera from animals infected with another cysticerci. Those fractions are considered as common immunogenic fractions between different cysticerci, so strictly identified specific fractions must to be used for diagnosis of Cysticerci infection to avoid cross reactions with other cysticerci antibodies.
Comparison of early stage electrocardiographic, echocardiographic and histopathologic results of partial pericardiectomy and thoracoscopic pericardial window techniques in an animal model
Authors: SALCI H. , KOCATURK M. , VOLKAN IPEK V. , BICER M. , YILMAZ Z. , SAMI BAYRAM A.
Published: February 2018

This study aimed to compare early stage electrocardiographic (ECG), echocardiographic (ECHO) and histopathologic results of the pericardial surgery techniques. Partial pericardiectomy by lateral thoracotomy and thoracoscopic pericardial window techniques was performed under general anesthesia in goats (n=6), which were separated into two groups; partial pericardiectomy was performed in group I (GRI) (n=3) and thoracoscopic pericardial window was performed in group II (GRII) (n=3). ECG and ECHO examinations were performed pre- and postoperatively on days 1, 7 and 30. All experimental animals were sacrificed at the end of day 30 and macroscopic investigations were performed. Histopathological examinations were performed on the lung, visceral pleura, epicardium and myocardial tissues. ECG findings included sinus tachycardia, small complex QRS and T wave peak on day 1 in both groups., The left atrial and ventricular diameters as well as the stroke volume were lower on the 1st postoperative day in both groups. The stroke volume was lower on postoperative days 1 and 30 in GRII. The observed ejection fraction was lower in GRII and higher in GRI on postoperative day 30 compared with their baselines. Macroscopic and histopathological findings of the lung and heart tissues were more severe in GRI, but there was no meaningful variation in the epicardium or visceral pleura. There was no significant difference in the histopathological results between the groups. Although the thoracoscopic pericardial window technique seem less traumatic and better tolerated than partial pericardiectomy, our ECHO and histopathologic results indicate that both techniques can safely be performed by surgeons according to the pericardial disease indication.
The Effect of Omega 3 and Vitamin E against Avian Influenza in Broiler Chickens
Authors: TASEER M. , ASLAM A. , CHAUDHARY Z. I. , ASHRAF K. , AKHTAR R. , MUSTAFA G.
Published: February 2018

The present study assessed the individual and combined effect of vitamin E and omega 3 against low pathogenic avian influenza (LPAI) virus in broiler birds. Day-old broiler birds (n=125) were equally divided into five groups (A, B, C, D & E). Group A was non infected negative control. While groups B, C, D and E were infected with low pathogenic avian influenza (H9N2) virus at 28th day (2 HAunits/bird). Group B was given omega 3 at rate of 150mg/kg in feed. Group C was given vitamin E 200 IU/kg. Group D was offered vitamin E and omega 3. Group E was designated as positive control without supplementation. The results revealed significantly increased antibody titer, decreased heterophil lymphocyte ratio, improved feed conversion ratio and least histopathological lesions in birds given vitamin E alone followed by the group given combination of vitamin E and omega 3. These results concluded the positive impact of Vitamin E as compare to omega 3 alone and combined omega 3 with vitamin E against LPAI infection in broiler chickens. These findings can have useful field application in control of avian influenza.
Histopathological findings in Dalmatian pelicans (Pelecanus crispus) naturally infected with avian influenza subtype A H5N1 in Bulgaria
Authors: STOIMENOV G. M. , GOUJGOULOVA G. V. , NIKOLOV B. , PETROVA R. , TENEVA A. , DIMITROVA I.
Published: February 2018

The aim of this study is to estimate the histopathological changes in visceral organs of naturally infected with the avian influenza virus (AIV) subtype A H5N1 dalmatian pelicans in Bulgaria. The identified gross lesions are: haemorrhagic small intestine, sparse content in gizzard and proventriculus, well defined hyperemia of the tracheal mucosa associated with petechiae, as well as meningeal and brain congestion. The infected birds exhibited the following histopathological changes: edema of the tracheal mucosa with loss of mucosal glands, mild to moderate congestion with focal necrosis and multifocal non suppurative encephalitis and gliosis, mononuclear infiltration in the cecum, and diffuse mononuclear infiltration in the submucosa of the small intestine. The virus was detected by virus isolation (VI) and RT-PCR from tissue samples (lung, trachea, small intestine, brain, proventriculus, cloaca) from the infected birds.
Mannheimia haemolytica and Bibersteinia trehalosi serotypes isolated from lambs with ovine respiratory complex in Spain
Authors: GONZALEZ J. M. , LACASTA D. , FERRER L. M. , FIGUERAS L. , ABADIE G. , DE LAS HERAS M.
Published: February 2018

Ovine respiratory complex causes significant economic losses in ovine production systems around the world. Mannhemia haemolytica and Bibersteinia trehalosi are the two most frequently isolated bacterial species. In this study, bacterial isolates of M. haemolytica and B. trehalosi isolated from dead lambs were serotyped by means of indirect haemagglutination, with the general aim to improve information in the preparation for candidate strains for relevant vaccines. In total, 84 isolates were serotyped. Eight different M. haemolytica serotypes and four different B. trehalosi serotypes were identified. The most frequentM. haemolytica serotypes were A2 (29% of isolates), A12 (18%) and A1 (12%), while B. trehalosi were predominantly T4 (40% of isolates) and a group sharing characteristics of T3 and T15 serotypes (43%). Isolation of T4 serotype was associated with lack of consolidated lesions in lungs, whilst isolation of T3-T15 group was associated with lung consolidation. It is concluded that a potential vaccine to control the disease presented as a bacterin based on outer membrane proteins and leucotoxins of the organisms, it should contain the above, frequently implicated serotypes. Alternatively, vaccines based on iron-regulated proteins can be possible replacements.
Proper use and impact of ‘Computer Assisted Semen Analysis’ technique on semen evaluation of farm animals
Authors: MICHOS (H.Α. ΜΙΧΟΣ) I. A. , BASIOURA (Α.Γ. ΜΠΑΣΙΟΥΡΑ) A. G. , BOSCOS (Κ.M. ΜΠΟΣΚΟΣ) C. M. , TSAKMAKIDIS (Ι.Α. ΤΣΑΚΜΑΚΙΔΗΣ) I. A.
Published: February 2018

Objective of this review is to present the use of ‘Computer Assisted Semen Analysis’ technique application in farm animal health management, in particular the steps for accurate semen evaluation and the impact of the method in predicting male animal fertility under field conditions. Requirements for proper use of the equipment, factors affecting the evaluation process and the role of the estimated parametres for fertility under field conditions are described. Special reference is made in sperm motility evaluation. It is concluded that the method is an effective and efficient tool for semen evaluation, provided good practices are strictly applied and adhered to, by means of which valid results may be obtained.
Acute phase response in experimentally infected broilers with avian infectious bronchitis virus serotype 4/91
Authors: SEIFI S. , ALIAN SAMAKKHAH S. H. , ABSALAN FARD K.
Published: February 2018

Measurement of acute phase proteins is important for diagnosis of animal diseases. In the present study, effects of avian infectious bronchitis virus infection on acute phase response and acute phase proteins were determined. Thirty one-day-old commercial broiler chicks were reared in experimental facilities and, at the age of 21 days, were challenged intranasally with 0.2 mL of allantoic fluid virus suspension (titre 106.5 EID50 per 0.1 mL). Serum samples were obtained prior to challenge and on days 1, 2, and 5 post-inoculation. Haptoglobin, serum amyloid A and C- reactive protein concentrations were measured. Our results showed that all investigated acute phase proteins increased significantly after infection, with mean maximum concentrations between 24 h and 48 h. No correlation was observed between plasma acute phase proteins in the chickens prior and post inoculation of the virus. Haptoglobin was most sensitive factor to change in the exposed birds.
Carcass decontamination methods in slaughterhouses: a review
Authors: MILIOS (Κ. ΜΗΛΙΟΣ) K. , DROSINOS (Ε. ΔΡΟΣΙΝΟΣ) E. H. , ZOIOPOULOS (Π.Ε. ΖΩΪΟΠΟΥΛΟΣ) P. E.
Published: February 2018

European Union legislation approach to meat safety assurance advocates use of strict preventive hygiene measures and procedures to overcome threats by pathogens. Therefore, there is no need for carcass decontamination at the last stage of slaughtering process, using intervention methods. In contrast, the United States permit and regulate intervention decontamination methods. Generally, a HACCP system may use intervention treatments. These may be based solely on a non intervention system or use a combination of both. Interventions have the advantage of achieving a consistent reduction in bacterial contamination and require less manual input, but on the other hand, may also lead to carcass discolouration, produce large quantities of waste water and be relatively expensive. Moreover, intervention methods could constitute a means of concealing poor hygiene conditions during slaughtering or, even more, their residues could be a potential hazard for food safety. Non-intervention systems have the advantages of being relatively inexpensive, easy to implement and more preventive. However, these systems rely heavily on human effort and the possibility for error is considerably higher than the intervention systems. There are many carcass decontamination methods, as described in the relevant literature and used in slaughterhouses worldwide, such as: (i) cold/warm water washing, (ii) hot water washing, (iii) steam vacuuming, (iv) steam pasteurization, (v) irradiation, (vi) organic acid application, (vii) combination of organic acid application with other decontamination treatments and (viii) other chemical treatments. Aim of this review is to provide information on the relevant literature, as well as describe and Ncomment on the questions raised.
Comparative study on Pharmacokinetic Profiles of Chicken IgY to Horse IgG in Rabbits
Authors: ZHOU ZHAOXIANG , WANG JIAN , GAO SONG , REN HAO , XIE WENYAN , THIRUMALAI DIRAVIYAM , ZHANG XIAOYING
Published: February 2018

Chicken IgY antibody has been extensively reported for various applications as an alternative to mammalian IgG. To evaluated the pharmacokinetics profile of chicken IgY in comparison with horse IgG. Chicken IgY antibody was prepared by immunizing the white leghorn chicken with tetanus toxoid (TT) and then extracted anti-TT-IgY from immune egg yolks by PEG-6000 extraction. The titer of anti-TT-IgY was determined by ELISA in order to select the hyper immune eggs for further extraction. Rabbits were injected with 300 μg/kg of Chicken IgY and horse IgG by intravenous (i.v.) and intramuscular (i.m.) administrations. Then, the concentrations of IgY and IgG in rabbit serum were determined using indirect ELISA. Pharmacokinetic parameters were estimated using non-compartmental analysis. IgY can reach higher concentration (Cmax= 4.54 mg/L after i.m. injection) within shorter time (Tmax= 0.12 h after i.m. injection) than IgG (Cmax= 3.99 ng/mL after i.m. injection; Tmax=0.11 h after i.m. injection), while the IgY lifespan (T1/2=26.98 h and 31.98 h after i.v. and i.m. administration, respectively) in the body was comparable with IgG (T1/2=27.94 h and 29.58 h after i.v. and i.m. administration, respectively). IgY might be a promising choice as an alternative to mammalian sourced antibodies.
Investigation of milk urea nitrogen concentration and factors affecting its variation in Greek Holstein herds
Authors: SIACHOS (Ν. ΣΙΑΧΟΣ) N. , PANOUSIS (Ν. ΠΑΝΟΥΣΗΣ) N. , ARSENOS (Γ. ΑΡΣΕΝΟΣ) G. , VALERGAKIS (Γ.Ε. ΒΑΛΕΡΓΑΚΗΣ) G. E.
Published: February 2018

Milk urea nitrogen (MUN) is an important tool in dairy cow nutrition, as it reflects the amount of nitrogen in the diet which is not used for production. The objective of this study was to evaluate MUN values in Greek dairy herds, for the first time, and to investigate the source of its possible variation. For this purpose, a dataset of 23,266 milk records from 24 Holstein herds in the region of Thessaly (Greece) was used. Descriptive statistics, analysis of variance and a multiple regression model were used for statistical analysis. Significant differences were observed among farms (P<0.05). Mean MUN concentration was 15.54 mg/dL. More than 90% of the measurements were above the upper limit of reference herd target-values. In contrast with previous observations, lower MUN values (P<0.05) were observed during the summer and autumn. A positive relationship between milk yield and MUN was observed, but only up to MUN values of 16 mg/dL. Milk fat content and fat/protein ratio were negatively related to MUN, while cows with higher protein content had lower MUN values (P<0.05). Most milk traits and sampling month explained only 25.8% of the variation in MUN concentration (P<0.05). In conclusion, MUN values in Greek dairy farms were greater than target-values suggested for most herds, indicating systematic nutritional errors that could affect health and reproductive performance of dairy cows.
The contribution of laboratory animals to diagnostic imaging research in Greece
Authors: TSELEPIDIS S. , VASSIOU K. , ARVANITIS D. , KALOGEROPOULOU C. , MARINOU K.
Published: February 2018

Biomedical research in Greece has rapidly developed during the last 30 years. Diagnostic imaging groundwork is a significant field of interest which has been developed by taking advantage of the basic and applied research capacities including the use of small and large animal models, conventional and/or genetically modified ones. This important outbreak in research has been enhanced by the construction of modern facilities in universities, medical and other academic research centers, the use of new advanced installed equipment, modern imaging techniques, specific contrast media and, of course, specialized personnel. In this manuscript, the research performed regarding diagnostic imaging techniques using animal models in Greece since 1983 is presented. More specifically a recording of the Greek research centers, the number of researchers, species and figures of animal models, diagnostic imaging techniques used, as well as the contribution of projects in the evolution of diagnostic imaging in medicine and veterinary science is presented.
Distribution and abundance of ticks infesting livestock population along Karakorum highway from Mansehra to Gilgit, Pakistan
Authors: SAJID MUHAMMAD SOHAIL , IQBAL ZAFAR , SHAMIM ASIM , SIDDIQUE RAO MUHAMMAD , UL HASSAN MUHAMMAD JAWAD , RIZWAN HAFIZ MUHAMMAD
Published: February 2018

Ticks and tick-borne infections pose major economic threats to the livestock industry throughout the world. The present study reports the point prevalence of ticks in the free range livestock population of the plain and hilly areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (Mansehra, Haripur, Shangala, Kohistan), and Gilgit Baltistan (Diamer, Gilgit, Astor) along the Karakoram highway. Through convenient and snowball sampling techniques, a total of 813 animals, consisting of 232 sheep, 163 cattle, 365 goats and 53 buffaloes were screened for their tick burden. During the study, the two tick species identified were Hyalomma anatolicum and Rhipicephalus microplus. The overall prevalence of tick infestation among the screened livestock was 75.03%, with the highest distribution in sheep (81.47%) followed, in order, by cattle (77.91%), goats (72.05%) and buffalo (58.49%). The district-wise prevalence of ticks was the highest in Haripur (85.58), followed, in order, by Gilgit (83.10%), Mansehra (81.14%), Batagram (81.05%), Shangala (77.78%), Kohistan (75.38%), Diamer (72.28%) and Astor (32.22%). The prevalence of ticks was found to be higher (85.67%) in younger livestock than adults (66.44%), and in females (80.33%) than males (66.44%). The present study provides the first report of the tick distribution in higher altitudes of northern Pakistan and confirms the presence of Hyalomma and Rhipicephalus ticks in the plains, as well as the hilly geoclimates of Pakistan. Furthermore, the data on risk factors allows us to make recommendations to restructure the existing husbandry system of northern areas of Pakistan with the aim of reducing the tick burden on livestock.
Antimicrobial resistance profile and resistance genes of Vibrio species isolated from giant freshwater prawn (Macrobrachium rosenbergii) raised in Iran
Authors: SHAKERIAN A. , BARTON M. D. , AKINBOWALE O. L. , KHAMESIPOUR F.
Published: February 2018

Because of raising of large-scale high density prawn aquaculture techniques, production of this prawn worldwide is facing a serious threat from fatal diseases caused by nodaviruses and bacteria, particularly from the Vibrio species. The development of antibiotic resistance by Vibrio represents a potential threat to human health by exchange of resistant genes to human pathogens through food chain. This study aimed to determine antibiotic resistance profile of Vibrio isolates from giant fresh water Prawns (Macrobrachium rosenbergii) raised in Iran and to detect some antibiotic resistance genes in the isolates. A total of fifty giant fresh water prawns were processed for isolation of Vibrio species during February 2015 to August 2015. Identification of Vibrio isolates was done following standard biochemical methods. Phenotypic resistance of the isolates as determined by agar dilution method while polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method was used to detect the presence of erm, tetS, strA and sul2 genes in the isolates. Out of 50 prawns, 31 (62%) isolates of Vibrio spp. were reported, of which 20 (40%) were identified as V. parahaemolyticus, 10 (20%) were V. vulnificus and 1 (2%) were V. cholera. Over 90% of the tested strains showed susceptibility to SXT, AZM and NIT. In addition, strA and tetS genes were detected in all isolated Vibrio species. StrA gene was identified in 6 V. parahaemolyticus strains and also ermB and sul2 genes were not present in the isolate of V. cholera. The occurrence of multidrug resistance strains in the environment could be an indication of excessive usage of antibiotics in agriculture and aquaculture fields. This study has shown that giant freshwater prawns raised in Iran habour multidrug resistant Vibrio species.
Primary portal vein hypoplasia with portal hypertension in a young dog
Authors: KASABALIS (Δ. ΚΑΣΑΜΠΑΛΗΣ) D. , ALATZAS (Δ. ΑΛΑΤΖΑΣ) D. , ALATZA (Δ. ΑΛΑΤΖΑ) D. , PETANIDES (Θ. ΠΕΤΑΝΙΔΗΣ) T. A. , ALATZAS (Γ. ΑΛΑΤΖΑΣ) G. , PAPAZOGLOU (Λ. ΠΑΠΑΖΟΓΛΟΥ) L. G. , HARLEY R. , MYLONAKIS (Μ.Ε. ΜΥΛΩΝΑΚΗΣ) M. E.
Published: February 2018

A 5-month old Caucasian dog was presented with a 20-day history of abdominal distention along with inappetance, depression and vomiting of 24-hour duration. Physical examination findings included depression, ascites, mild inspiratory dyspnea and dehydration. Clinicopathological evaluation revealed hyperammonemia, hypoalbuminemia, hyperbilirubinemia, hypoglycemia and hyponatremia. Μicrohepatia and free abdominal fluid was detected with abdominal ultrasonography. During exploratory laparotomy, multiple acquired portosystemic collateral vessels were found, indicative of portal hypertension, along with a small liver of normal color and texture. Liver histopathology included features consistent with liver hypoperfusion. These findings supported the diagnosis of primary portal vein hypoplasia with portal hypertension. The animal recovered uneventfully postoperatively and was discharged with diuretics, hepatoprotectants and a low-protein diet and remains healthy two years after diagnosis. This case underscores that a favorable prognosis may be anticipated in cases of primary portal vein hypoplasia with portal hypertension, thus, justifying the long-term conservative management instead of considering euthanasia.
Glucose measurement using portable blood glucose meters in dogs and cats
Authors: ATHANASIOU (Λ.Β. ΑΘΑΝΑΣΙΟΥ) L. V. , TSOKANA (ΤΣΟΚΑΝΑ Κ.Ν.) C. N. , SARIDOMICHELAKIS (Μ. ΣΑΡΙΔΟΜΙΧΕΛΑΚΗΣ) M. N.
Published: February 2018

Portable blood glucose meters (PBGMs) are small electronic devices that measure the concentration of glucose in whole blood. Due to the technological advances, measurement of glucose concentration is carried out in a small blood volume, and it is a relatively simple, quick and inexpensive procedure. PBGMs are frequently used in companion animal medicine, especially for the diagnosis and treatment monitoring of dogs and cats with diabetes mellitus and hypoglycaemia. The main factors affecting the precision of the measurement include: a) the device (manufacturer), the consumables (reagent strips) and their storage conditions; b) environmental conditions (temperature and possibly altitude); c) blood collection technique (site of sampling, cleanliness at the site of sampling, use of anticoagulants); d) patient factors (haematocrit, blood triglycerides, creatinine, uric acid and protein concentrations, drug administration); and, e) operator errors. Due to all these factors, readings of glucose concentration by PBGMs may differ from those of chemistry analysers, and this should be taken into account when shifting from one method to the other. Furthermore, because the results depend on the PBGM, the same device should be used and all measurements should be made under the same environmental conditions and using the same blood sampling technique for serial measurements of blood glucose to be comparable. Finally, all the above mentioned limitations of glucose measurement by PBGMs should be taken into consideration and the results should be interpreted along with the clinical signs and any other laboratory findings for optimal diagnostic and therapeutic decisions.