Iraqi Journal of Veterinary Sciences

No studies have been conducted on the anti-inflammatory effect of allopurinol; eight-day old chicks are used. The aim of this paper was to study the anti-inflammatory action of allopurinol on a chemical pain model, both when administered alone or in combination with diclofenac sodium in chicks; additionally, we sought to determine the therapeutic index for allopurinol and diclofenac sodium in chicks. The median analgesic dose (ED50) of allopurinol and diclofenac sodium for inducing analgesic effects from electric stimulation in the chickens was 8.16 and 6.3 mg/kg, respectively. The median lethal dose (LD50) of allopurinol and diclofenac sodium in the chicks was 556.58 and 92.63 mg/kg, respectively. The therapeutic index for allopurinol and diclofenac sodium was calculated to be 69 and 15, respectively. This study identified the therapeutic index in chicks for the first time. It demonstrated that allopurinol is safer than diclofenac in chicks. Applying holographic analysis, we determined that the interaction between allopurinol /diclofenac sodium was synergistic when given at a ratio of 0.5:0.5. The anti-inflammatory efficacy for allopurinol alone, diclofenac sodium alone, and the two drugs combined were 52, 57 and 67% respectively. In conclusion, our study suggests indicating that allopurinol has analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects on formalin-induced inflammatory pain in chicks.

Goats are one of the essential economic animals in Iraq. Many species of ticks parasitize goats, and cause systemic diseases worldwide. The study was designed with a total of 240 goats in Basrah province, southern Iraq, from January to June 2021. 110 of 240 (45.83%) examined goats were infested with ixodid ticks. Samples of ticks identified to the species based on morphological features, using the taxonomic keys. Several phenotypic features performed the diagnosis. Six species of ixodid ticks were identified: Hyalomma anatolicum, Hyalomma excavatum, Hyalomma dromedarii, Hyalomma scupense, Rhipicephalus sanguineus, and Rhipicephalus turanicus. The species H. scupense was recorded in the South of Iraq for the first time. Goats have recorded a new host of the species H. dromedarii in Iraq. The species H. anatolicum recorded the highest rates in prevalence, mean intensity, and relative density, while H. dromedarii was the lowest. The number of female ticks was higher than that of males; the total number of ticks collected was mostly engorged females, while, the larvae were the lowest. The concurrent infestation of goats with ixodid ticks' species ranged between single and quadruple infestation. The highest numbers of ticks were isolated from the face, ear, udder, tail, testes, thighs, and axilla on the body of infected goats.

Diarrhea is a complex syndrome causing colossal economic losses. The objective of the current study was to diagnose Enter-pathogens in children, calves, and broiler chickens by a serological and molecular diagnosis of Rotavirus, evaluate Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Salmonella spp. with bacteriological examination beside conventional diagnosis of Cryptosporidium in addition to studying risk factors affecting these pathogens in Assiut Governorate. From February 2021 to April 2021, a total of 60 samples were collected from the stool of children (n=20), feces of calves (n=20) in addition to liver and pool intestine of broiler chickens (n=20) were examined by Immuno Chromatographic Assay (ICA), Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR), microbiological examination and modified Ziehl-Neelsen stain smears. The prevalence of Rotavirus infection by ICA was 55% (11/20), 10% (2/20), and 5% (1/20) of examined children, calves, and broiler chickens, respectively. Two (18.18%) of serologically Rotavirus positive stools of children were positive molecularly by RT-PCR, while serologically positive fecal and pool intestines of calves and broiler chickens, respectively, were negative molecularly. There was no significant variation between Rotavirus, E. coli, and Cryptosporidium infections with gender and age of investigated children and between these enteropathogens with sex, age, and species of examined calves. In addition, there were no significant differences between Rotavirus, E. coli, Salmonella, and Cryptosporidium with the age of investigated broiler chickens. It is concluded that these enteropathogens in livestock and chicken living close to the human population necessitate better surveillance and control measures to protect vulnerable animal and human populations.

This study aimed to determine the role of Saccharomyces cerevisiae in alleviating copper sulfate toxicity in carp fish and by evaluating Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity and histopathological alteration in gills and brain with determined the severity of lesions in the gills by semi-quantities analysis. Sixty fish were divided into four groups first was a control group fish in the second group were exposed to CuSO4 0.53 mg/L, in the third group fish were treated with yeast 5 g/ kg ratio and the fourth group fish treated with yeast and exposed to CuSO4. At the end of the experiment (56 days) it was observed that there was a significant decrease in the AChE activity in the second group, while this activity was improved significantly in the fourth group. The histopathological alteration in the brain was variable in the severity from infiltration of inflammatory, edema, and central chromatolysis of neuron cell bodies. At the same time, the lesions in the gills include edema, congestion, hydropic degeneration, hyperplasia in the mucus cells with shortening in the secondary gill filaments shaped like a drumstick, necrosis, and cartilage disruption. The semi-quantities lesions analysis in the gills classified them as mild, moderate, severe, and irreversible lesions. These lesions in both brain and gills were mild in severity in fish of group fourth. These studies conclude that the activity of AChE is a biological indicator for copper sulfate neurotoxicity and also causes damage to the brain and gills, and yeast is a bio adsorbent agent for copper

Sulfur is one of the crucial elements in animal nutrition and has an influential role in forming amino acids. It is a common toxic element and does not significantly threaten human and animal health. The current study aimed to examine the potential neurobehavioral toxicity of sulfur in mice by studying its effects on animal behavior and locomotor activity. The 24h median lethal dose- (LD50) of sulfur in mice, as determined by the up-and-down method was 33.22 g/kg; orally, whereas its approximate lethal dose (ALD) was 36 g/kg, within 24 h. Signs of sulfur poisoning in mice were depression, gasping, Straub tail, Piloerection, tremor, dyspnea, muscle fasciculation, and convulsions followed by death. Sulfur at 4 and 8 g/kg doses, after 4 and 24 h, caused significant changes in the neurobehavioral performance in mice. It appeared as a significant decrease in motor activity within the open-field test (number of crossed squares and number of rearing within 3 minutes), with prolongation and increase in the time required to complete the negative geotaxis test with a significant reduction in the number of head pocking and a slight decrease in the swimming test scores. Repeated administration of sulfur at doses of 1, 2, and 4 g/kg; for 7 and 14 consecutive days also led to significant decrease in the motor activity inside the open-field with a prolongation of the time required to complete the negative geotaxis with a significant reduction in the number of head pockings and a slight reduction in the swimming endurance test. Using a pharmacological challenge with xylazine and ketamine, sulfur induced a delay and prolongation in the onset of time of sleep and shortened the sleep duration. This study concludes that sulfur, despite its low toxicity, is a potential neurobehavioral toxicant.

In order to provide more significant physiological benefits for the poultry sector, our research sought to assess the effectiveness of the two metabolic products, Sorbitol and L-carnitine, for energy production. In April and May, after three days of adaptation, 60 broiler chicks were partitioned into three groups (20/group). The regular food was given to the control group, while sorbitol 100 g/kg diet and L-carnitine 80 mg/kg diet were given to the second and third groups, respectively. After data analysis, the following conclusions were drawn: sorbitol and L-carnitine considerably increased TSH and T3 levels, but L-carnitine had superior benefits for ATP generation over sorbitol. On the other hand, sorbitol and L-carnitine significantly raise glucose levels while lowering triglyceride and cholesterol levels, except for L-carnitine, which does not affect cholesterol levels. The two products also positively affect growth efficiency by significantly increasing ultimate and earned body weight with only chest muscle from other organs weighted in the experiments. However, any treatments did not affect blood parameters estimated in this experiment. Histological variables of the intestine of broilers provide reliable indications of feed additive absorption. As a result, my data showed a positively influenced villi heightening by two treatments, while L-carnitine is more efficient in terms of villus width, villus surface area, and goblet cell number. In conclusion, L-carnitine was more efficient than Sorbitol in energy production, either of effects on thyroid production, ATP generation, growth-enhancing, and boosting absorption from the intestine.

Peste des petits ruminants (PPR) are caused by a Morbillivirus that belongs to the family Paramyxoviridae. Peste des petits ruminants are an acute, highly contagious, and deadly disease that mainly affects goats and sheep, with subclinical infection occurring in cattle. Peste des petits ruminants occur in many countries, with morbidity and fatality rates as high as 90 percent. Peste des petits ruminants’ outbreaks occurred annually in Sulaymaniyah; this study aims to determine genetic variation and the global relationship of circulating strains in the area. RT-PCR was primarily used to identify the virus from mouth epithelial samples. The direct sequencing and subsequent analysis of amplified PCR products for the (N and F) genes revealed the presence of PPRV lineage IV in the study areas. Moreover, phylogenetic analysis revealed N gene (OL702851/PPR/H/SUL/sheep, OL702852/PPR/H/SUL2/Goat) cluster with (china-KP319027.1) strain with identity 98%, while the F gene (PPR/H/SUL3/Sheep, PPR/H/SUL4/Goat) has a cluster with (Turkey-MG744218 and Saudi Arabia-MK922470.1) strains with identities 97 and 98% respectably. Furthermore, phylogenetic tree field virus isolates heterologous with the current vaccine strain (Nigeria 75/1) were used for the mass vaccination program, and the divergence rate was 10%-13%. These variations between vaccines and field isolates could compromise the antibody responses induced by the vaccines in the hosts.

Cascadura, (Hoplosternum littorale) is a delicacy in some countries; however, literature on this species is limited. This study aimed to identify gastrointestinal and hematological parasites and their potentially associated pathological effects in wild and farmed Cascadura in Trinidad. Samples of forty (40) wild and farmed Cascadura fishes were collected for this study. Morphometric measurements of whole fish and gastrointestinal tracts (GIT) were recorded. Blood smears were processed and stained with Wright’s Giemsa and GIT sections stained with Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) and Periodic Acid Schiff (PAS). The gross anatomy and histological features of the GIT of the Cascadura were consistent with the fish belonging to the Callichthyidae family. Hematological parasites were found in 13 out of the 40 (32.5%) fishes (nine wild; four farmed): 6 of 13 belonged to Alternaria spp. (15%), 6 of 13 were protozoa (15%) and 1 of 13 (5%) was a blood fluke belonging to the family Aporocotylidae. Three gastrointestinal nematodes were found in three wild fish, one identified as an anisakid. Gastric and intestinal structures appeared normal; however, inflammatory cells were found in one wild fish with damaged villi and degenerated epithelium of the intestine.

Rhizopus oryzae is classified a one of the Mucorales which belong to the zygomycota. This microorganism is a filamentous fungus can produce various substances such as ethanol, fumaric acid, lactic acid, ragi, and temph. R. oryzae has been occupied important role in the producing benefit metabolites such as organic acids. Enzymes. and antimicrobial compounds. In the current study, potato dextrose agar (PDA) and malt extract agar (MEA) were used for growing R. oryzae that the fungus was identified depending on the morphological parameters and conventional PCR. The fungus was cultured in two synthetic media were corn steep liquor (SCL) and conocarpus leaves (CL) at 25°C. R. oryzae produced abundant growth in both media and the growth was greyish white. GC-MA analysis appeared several different compounds in the crude extracts of R. oryzae using these fermenting synthetic media; however, some compounds were reported to be similar in their structures. The similar compounds were (pyrrolo [1,2-a] pyrazine-1,4-dione, hexahydro-), (1-nonadecene), (pyrrolo [1,2-a] pyrazine-1,4-dione, hexahydro-3-(2-methylpropyl),) methyl stearate), (hexanedioic acid, bis(2-ethylhexyl) ester), (bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate), and (1,4-benzenedicarboxylic acid, (bis (2-ethylhexyl) ester). This study aimed to evaluate CL medium in comparison with CSL one for detecting the natural compounds produced from R. oryzae.

The possible benefits of employing combination treatment include the ability to increase antinociceptive effects while minimizing the occurrence of unfavorable side effects. As a result, they are combining drugs that provide analgesic synergism allowing for a reduction in needed dosage as well as lowering the occurrence of unwanted side effects. In the current study, we evaluated quantitatively and qualitatively the type of drug interaction between tramadol (a typical opioid analgesic) and chlorpheniramine (an H1-antagonist) at the level of thermal (hot plate) and visceral (writhing reflex) nociceptive stimuli in mice model. The 50% antinociceptive effective dose (ED50) of intraperitoneal administration for tramadol and chlorpheniramine was 12 and 18.4 mg/kg respectively, using the up and down approach and hot plate apparatus. The treated animals showed signs of sedation and immobility. At 0.5:0.5 and 1:1 ED50 ratios of each, the kind of pharmacological interaction between the two medications was synergism at the level of acute antinociceptive impact, using hot plate apparatus and isobolographic analysis. The reduction in ED50 value was significant for tramadol and chlorpheniramine by 58.8 and 58.8 % at 0.5:0.5 ratio while 53.5 and 53.5 % at 1:1 ratio respectively. The synergistic interaction between the two drugs was also confirmed using the double ED50 dose of each drug as simultaneously i.p. injected of these doses producing a synergism antinociceptive effect at visceral (writhing reflex) test. Which represented as prevent 100% writhing induced by i.p. injection of acetic acid compared to the control group and that with each drug alone at the same double doses. The present results concluded that simultaneous injection of tramadol and chlorpheniramine produced synergism, a potent and safe antinociceptive effect even at low doses which may be clinically useful in treating pain in the veterinary clinic.

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of bosentan as a protective agent on the rat’s cheek mucosa for Methotrexate-induced oral mucositis. Twenty-four Wister-albino rats, about 12-16 weeks and weighing 300-400 g, were used. The animals were divided into three groups. In the first control group, the second group was treated with methotrexate (80 mg/kg), and the third group was treated with methotrexate and bosentan 60 mg/kg. The microscopical parameters were estimated, the pro-inflammatory marker (TNF-α) and intercellular adhesive molecule-1(ICAM-1) measurement in the buccal mucosa. The animals were sacrificed on day 15, and the buccal mucosa was dissected for histological and immunohistochemical analysis. Bosentan decreased the severity of the Methotrexate-induced oral mucositis by a significant decrease in the histological score and a significant decrease in TNF-α and ICAM-1 immune histochemical expression at day fifteen. Bosentan at a concentration of 60 mg/kg/day produced protection against Methotrexate-induced oral mucositis by its anti-inflammatory action and reduction in the histological score and, therefore, can be used as a protective agent against Methotrexate-induced oral mucositis.

Wild Caucasian squirrels are commonly seen in the mountain forests of the northern Iraqi and are sometimes kept as pets. However, no hematological or physiological reference values are set for these animals, even though they are often taken to private veterinary hospitals in the region. So, setting these values is necessary. A selection of hematological and physiological parameters is measured in 24 wild Caucasian squirrels (20 males and four females) in the mountain areas of Pshdar district, Sulaymaniyah, north of Iraq. The hematological parameters included the leukocytes, erythrocytes, hemoglobin, hematocrit, platelets, mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular hemoglobin, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, and examination of blood smears stained with Giemsa. The vital signs included the heart rate, respiratory rate, oxygen saturation (SpO2), and rectal temperature. The physiological parameters were scored, and blood was taken from the animals without being sedated or anesthetized by immobilizing them using a specially designed jacket. Most values were as expected compared to other rodent species, and no significant differences were observed between the sexes. All squirrels are successfully rehabilitated and released after the experiments are conducted.

Food safety and forensic applications rely seriously on identifying meat samples of unknown species. Mutton meat is delicious and high-priced meat. Its tallow is a flavoring precursor to being authenticated by using different meat species. Mutton authenticity by beef meat that is genetically related to each other makes it difficult to detect fraud of products, mainly if the substitution is applied with fat, not only meat. So, accurate methods for detection must be applied to evaluate meat fraud based not only on protein but also on fat substitution. This work aimed to evaluate the mutton meat substitution by meat and fat of beef using multiplex PCR and Gas Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS/MS). Multiplex PCR detects cytochrome b in mutton meat adulterated with different concentrations of beef meat, even with 0.5%. PCR products amplified at 274 bp for mutton and 271 bp for beef. Fatty acid profile of pure mutton meat (tallow) samples and mutton authenticated with beef meat by GC/MS/MS. It was found that it contained 39.48 mg/100 g of total saturated fatty acids (TSFA), 60.48 mg/100 g of total unsaturated fatty acids (TUSFA), and 3.4 mg/100 g of trans-fatty acids (TFA). While after being authenticated with beef, these results changed to 49.58, 49.57, and 6.37 mg/100gm for TSFA, TUSFA, and TFA, respectively. In conclusion, Multiplex PCR and GC/MS/MS evidenced to be accurate and applicable for the recognition of mutton meat authentication.

The purpose of the current work is to study mucosa of the camel hard palate morphology by gross anatomy, morphometric analysis in addition to light and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Ten heads of freshly slaughtered camels were collected from Zagazig abattoir. The selected camels were in good general condition, their ages were ranged around three to five years. Anatomically, the hard palate was elongated and it could be divided into a narrow rostral part and a caudal wide part with about 13-14 transverse palatine ridges. The dental pad was a crescentic thick plate at the rostral end of hard palate. The incisive papilla is triangular prominence situated behind the dental pad in the median plane and is surrounded by shallow groove, microscopically, the mucosa of hard palate consisted of a keratinized squamous epithelium. The submucosa comprised from vascularized collagenous connective tissues run in various directions. The soft caudal part of the hard palate is distinguished by lobulated serous acini and it was rich in adipocytes. Scanning electron microscopy demonstrated the stratification of the epithelium; with excessive desquamation and sloughing of the epithelial cells. By high magnification, the microplicae system was inform of irregular surface separated by septae.

We aimed in current study to determine the LC50 of glyphosate in common carp fish (Cyprinus carpio L.) within 24 hours in addition to study the pathological lesions of sublethal concentration of glyphosate (25 and 50% of LC50) in kidney and liver tissues. A total of 100 fish used to determine the LC50 of glyphosate using Trevan method (Curve protocol) within 24 hours, in addition to 75 fish used to study the histopathological lesions caused by 25 and 50% of LC50 in common carp after 5, 15 and 25 days of exposure. The result of current study showed that the LC50 of glyphosate in common carp was 26.151 mg/L within 24 hours, in accordance with this result the 25 and 50% of LC50 was 6.54 and 13.08 mg/L, respectively. The histopathological lesions revealed that both kidney and liver showed degenerative and necrotic changes which associated with infiltration of inflammatory cells and interstitial hemorrhages, also the liver sections showed hyperplasia of bile cuniculi and collagen fiber deposition within portal area, generally the histopathological lesions were more intensive and advanced in group exposed to 50% of glyphosate LC50 more than that recorded in group treated with 25% of glyphosate LC50. In conclusion, common carp fish (Cyprinus carpio L.) showed serious histopathological lesions after exposure to sublethal concentration of glyphosate, these lesions are life threating and can cause high mortality in higher concentration.

The pan about the usage of antibiotics in chicken feed in different parts of the world, and rising customer demand for poultry products free of antibiotics has heightened the attention of poultry researchers and producers in identifying appropriate substitution to such alternatives. The present research was aimed to study the effects of dietary supplemented with Saccharomyces cerevisiae, probiotics and mixing of them (S. cerevisiae and probiotic) on growth performances, activity of the immunity organs (thymus and bursa of Fabricius) and hematological profile, a total of 60 one day old birds were randomly divided into 4 band (n=15) (T1-T4). T1 band (control), T2 provided with 3 g/kg of S. cerevisiae, T3 provided with 200g/1000L of water and T4 provided with mixing of S. cerevisiae and probiotic. body weight was measured at zero, 7, 14, 21, 28 and 35 days and represented highly significant at P<0.05 in T4 band in contrast to the last band, as well intestine weights and immunity organs weights in T2, T3 and T4 showed high significant variation at P<0.05 when compared with T1 (control band), in addition to the person correlation weights between T4 which showed height significant variation in intestinal weights with immunity organs and Bursa of Fabricius was highly significant with thymus gland, from our results we concluded that supplemented of chicken diet with S. cerevisiae and probiotic improved growth performance, immunity organs activity, hemoglobin concentration and packed cell volume.

Aflatoxin (AF) is the most crucial problem in the poultry industry, feed contaminants lead to toxicity. This study aims to evaluate the effects of synthetic silver nanoparticles mediated by plant extract on the histopathological alteration in broilers treated with AF. Forty-five chicks were divided randomly into three groups: the control group, the second group of chicks were treated with aflatoxin at a concentration of 70 part per million rations for 21 days, the third group of chicks was treated with AF 70 ppm, and silver nanoparticles 150 ppm. Aflatoxin concentration significantly declines in the ratio of the third group 1.86 ppm in comparison to the second group 1.91 ppm. Histopathological examination in the liver of broilers infected with aflatoxicosis revealed vascular disturbances involving congestion of the central vein, recent thrombus formation, and dilatation of sinusoid with the cell adaptation mainly hyperplasia of epithelial cells lining the bile duct, and this considers pathognomic lesion of aflatoxicosis and hepatic necrosis. The silver nanoparticles exhibit a tissue protective role against aflatoxin, improving the histopathological architecture. The I See an Inside method is a good tool for statistical histopathological analysis, which revealed significant elevation in the score of liver alteration in the second group in contrast to the third and first groups. The study concludes that silver nanoparticles can adsorbent the aflatoxin and reduce its deleterious toxic effect, and ISI is one of the vital techniques for detecting toxic effects in variable parts of the liver.

The present study looks at the morphological and molecular distinct features of the tick Hyalomma anatolicum, a livestock-important tick that transmits production-decreasing pathogens. A total of 17 ticks were collected from infested skin of cattle in Al-Daghara city, Al-Qadisiyah province, Iraq, from Oct 15, 2022, to Nov 15, 2022. All ticks were investigated microscopically to identify tick-external features and genotypical, using partial sequencing of the 16S rDNA gene. The microscopic results showed that the tick had mouthparts and genital pores, which were specific and identical to species H. anatolicum. The sequencing results confirmed the finding of the microscopic data. In conclusion, the ticks H. anatolicum identified in the present study could be similar to ticks previously identified in neighboring countries, such as Pakistan and Egypt, which encourages an explanation of why these similarities happened. Iraq had cattle imported from countries close to the Pakistan region, such as India, this could bring new H. anatolicum to Iraq.

This study focuses on the knee joint of Awassi sheep in Nineveh Governorate to identify its morphological characteristics. Ten healthy knee joints were used from both sexes. Our study showed that the knee joint is a complex joint consisting of a femur-patellar and a femur-tibial articular surfaces. The femoral-patellar articular surface is formed among the ridges of the femoral trochlea, which comprises two parallel and oblique ridges, as the medial ridge continues with medial condyloid of femur and lateral ridge separates from lateral condyle by the extensor fossa. The patella bone is the other part of this articulating surface, smaller than the trochlear articular surface. The articular capsule is thin and wide, and it is a fibrous layer that connects and lies around articular surfaces' edges, which are strengthened medially and laterally by femoral-patellar ligaments, both medial and lateral. The femoral-patellar joint contains the medial and lateral femoro-patellar ligaments, which are in the form of straps that connect the patella bone to the tibia and the middle patellar ligament. The two femur condyles and the proximal end of the tibia come together to form the tibial-femoral articular surface, with meniscus cartilage overlapping. The medial and lateral menisci are crescent-shaped sheets of fibrocartilage corresponding to the femoral and tibial articular surface. Each meniscus is connected to the tibia anteriorly by the anterior tibial meniscus ligaments, the medial meniscus attached posteriorly to the tibia by posterior cartilaginous ligament, and the lateral meniscus cartilage posteriorly bonded to the femur by the cartilaginous menisco-femoral ligament. The fibrous sheet of the articular capsule is connected around the edges of the condyles of femur and tibia, and articular capsule is attached to the medial and lateral tibiofemoral ligaments. There are two vesicular sacs with a simple connection between the cruciate ligaments. This study concluded that the fibrous sheet of the articular capsule is connected around the edge’s condyles of femur and tibia, and the articular capsule is attached to the medial and lateral tibiofemoral ligaments. There are two vesicular sacs with a simple connection between the cruciate ligaments.

This study is carried out to evaluate the occurrence of Entamoeba histolytica in cattle in Al-Diwaniyah Governorate, Iraq. Fifty fecal samples were collected from cattle in different regions of the province. Microscopy and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) were used to examine the samples. Four-PCR-product-dependent gene-sequencing was conducted, besides the microscopy, targeting the small subunit rRNA (SSU rRNA) gene of the parasite. The outcomes of the microscopy demonstrated the presence of the parasitic cyst and trophozoite in 66%, (33/50) of the fecal samples of the examined cattle. The results of the PCR showed that the genus level of Entamoeba was positive in 72%, (36/50) of the fecal samples. The sequencing reported the existence of four closely similar isolates to isolates registered in fecal samples of cattle in Baghdad City, Iraq. The study concludes that Entamoeba histolytica is currently present in the cattle tested in the current governorate, and the zoonotic disease could strongly be induced in people with contact with the animals testing positive.

The goal of this study is to discover the genetic diversity of twelve Escherichia coli isolates harbor virulence genes (Stx1 and Stx2) isolated from farm fish and local market fish in different locations of Nineveh Governorate using Enterobacterial Repetitive Intergenic Consensus (ERIC-PCR) technique in the time span November, 2021 - January, 2022. The source of contamination was found depending on the fingerprint analysis of the repetitive polymerase chain reaction among the genes of the intestinal micro-organism ERIC-PCR for every isolate. The results show that there are similarities among the isolates and it ranged about 51%-100%. The isolates are divided into 7 genotypes, based primarily on a 90% similarity threshold 1 to 7, with the most offspring being inside genotype 1, since genotype 1 used to be the biggest team containing four isolates. Then, two isolates are grouped under genotypes 3 and 5. In contrast, genotype 2, 4, 6 and 7 have only one isolate. By virtue of genetic variations in the location, there was once an excessive clonal dispersion of most E. coli strains. In addition, the study shows genetic differences in E. coli in 83.3%, (10/12) of the isolates, in the different geographical locations of Mosul city. The E. coli isolates were classified into some groups: first, different genetic grouping, different geographical locations, same genotype; second, different genetic grouping, same geographical locations, different genotypes.

This study investigates the effects of I/P injection of nano silver materials in the dose 0.2, 0.4, 0.6 mg/kg B.W. for 21 days on blood parameters, cardiac and hepatic tissue histology, and their functions. The results showed a significant increase in the blood parameters of treated animals in compared with the control group. The histological study showed that the histological alteration is more pronounced in the animals that treated with the dose 0.6 mg/kg B.W. which is characterized by inflammatory reaction with degeneration and necrosis of hepatocytes. In contrast, the histological alteration of cardiac muscle showed generalized congestion of blood capillaries, degeneration, and necrosis of cardiomyocytes with inflammatory reaction. Our conclusion of this study showed that the nano silver materials have a pronounced cytotoxic impact on the histological structure and function of the liver and heart besides the influence on the blood parameters (RBCs, platelets, hemoglobin, WBCs, MCV, MCH, MCHC).

Camels (Camelus dromedaries), similar to other ruminants, are infected by the Anoplocephalidae family belonging to the class cestode causing mild to severe illness. This study utilized a conventional PCR assay to confirm that Stilesia spp. is morphologically identified. Slaughtered camel intestines from the Al-Najif abattoir in the central part of Iraq were morphologically examined for Stilesia spp. Applied a PCR and genetic analysis for twenty adult worms. The presence of Stilesia spp. adult worms were initially identified through morphological characterization. The scolex and strobili were found in the intestine lumen and its nodules. All the worms’ specimens were identified as a Stilesia genus, and PCR amplified their partial DNA fragment on the location of the ITS2, 5.8S rDNA gene. Camels infected with Stilesia spp. found in eviscerated camel carcasses in south Iraq, and twenty isolates of Stilesia globipunctata molecular data have been recorded an accession numbers OM221663- OM221682 in the NCBI.

Astrovirus infection is an enteric viral disease, which leads to economic losses in the poultry industry worldwide. This study aimed to detect Chicken Astrovirus (CAstV) infection in broiler chicks in Sulaymaniyah province. Tissue samples were collected from 100 chicks from Sulaymaniyah broiler farms between July 2021 and February 2022 and were separated into 3 groups according to their age; 1-week-old chicks, group B; (n=33), was 2 weeks old chicks, and group C; (n=34) for 3 weeks old chicks. The tissue samples (intestine, liver, and kidney) were analyzed by PCR and suspected samples were passed for the histological techniques and preparation of H&E stain. Samples in groups B and C had characteristic gross and histologic lesions, specifically, the histopathologic sections revealed atrophied hepatocytes, the presence of urate crystals in the kidneys and ureters, also villous atrophy with cryptitis and crypt abscess in the duodenum. RT-PCR for detection and amplification of the 362 bps-ORF-1b (partial) region of the virus genome revealed, that 5 of the 100 samples were positive for CAstV; group B (2 samples) and group C (3 samples), while group A was negative for CAstV. Isolated CAstV strain IQ/CAstv/suly/2022 with (ON093075) was closely related to four Iranian ones.

This study aims to investigate the relation of body weight with testicular parameters, sexual behavior and sex hormones. The study was conducted within two months, August and September. Eighteen native black bucks were randomly assigned to three groups (n=6) according to their body weights, 30-35, 36-40 and 41-45 kg. All animals were reared under a semi-intensive system. The analysis of data revealed direct correlation of testicular parameters as scrotal circumference, right and left testicular length and volume with the body weight. The results at August show that the bucks body weight when increased, many sexual behaviors improve significantly as attempted mounts, snuffing, flehmen response, time for 1st mating and time for 1st jump. As for sexual behavior at September, the attempted mounts, snuffing, flehmen response, number of mating, time for 1st mating and time for 1st jump, improve significantly in the bucks with heavy weight as compared to low weight bucks. Also, the number of mating (ejaculation) is better numerically at September compared to August. For the effect of buck’s body weight on sexual hormones, testosterone concentration increases significantly at both, August and September as body weight increased, and conversely, both LH and estrogen levels are reduced as body weight increases. In conclusion, the current study reveals that there is a direct relation between the local buck’s body weight and most of the testicular parameters, sexual behavior and sexual hormones activity.

Respiratory infections in poultry are considered one of the most acute infections that negatively affect the poultry industry and cause severe economic losses worldwide. Ornithobacterium rhinotracheale (ORT) is one of the fundamental causes of poultry respiratory diseases due to misdiagnosis with other respiratory pathogens and the absence of ideal diagnostic protocols. Accordingly, this study aimed to detect the presence of antibodies against ORT using indirect ELISA. For this purpose, serum samples n=368 were collected from 16 small broiler farms in Mosul city and adjacent areas. The results showed that 32.1% (118/368) of the tested samples were seropositive for ORT antibodies. Furthermore, only (18.8%) 3/16 of the farms follow standard management practices, while 13/16 (82.2%) have poor management practices. Additionally, the study showed that only 2/16 (12.5%) of the farms use antibiotics after performing an antibiotic sensitivity test, while 14/16 (87.5%) randomly use antibiotics without testing antibiotic sensitivity. Finally, 62.5% (10/16) of the studied farms have a previous history of respiratory infections, while only 37.5% (6/16) of the farms have no previous history of respiratory infections. In conclusion, detecting seropositive against ORT in the studied broiler farms with poor management and arbitrary use of antibiotics might suggest a significant role of ORT in developing respiratory infections and finally contribute to the massive financial losses.

The present study encompasses two aspects: monitoring the typical clinical features of trichomoniasis among domestic pigeons (Columba livia domestica) in Al-Qadisiyah Province, Iraq, and molecular typing of the etiological agent. The typical clinical features of trichomoniasis, including glutinous plaques that create yellow, necrotic, cheese-like masses, were verified in a sample of fifty pigeons with a frequency of occurrence of 100% (n=50/50). Microscopic examination also revealed a frequency of occurrence among pigeons of 100% (n=50/50). The molecular typing of the causative agent was performed using the 18S rRNA sequence analysis approach with the universal Trichomonas ITS1-5.8S rRNA-ITS2 specific primer through conventional PCR. Among the ten pigeons tested, the molecular typing revealed that Trichomonas gallinae was the causative agent of trichomoniasis with a frequency of occurrence of (n=10/10). The ITS1-5.8S rRNA-ITS2 nucleotide sequences of the ten strains of Trichomonas gallinae were submitted to GenBank under the following accession issues: OM367997, OM457006, OM457005, and OM456998. These findings underscore the indispensable need for implementing high preventive standard measures against avian trichomoniasis to better control this disease.

The study was designed to know if there is any histological difference between using suturing and histoacryl (n-2-butyl-cyanoacrylate) for closing small parenchymal lung wounds in dogs. Twelve adult dogs were used in this study. The experimental animals were divided into two equal groups of six animals each. After induction of general anesthesia, a left intercostal thoracotomy was done, and a small incision of 2cm was made on the parenchymal lung tissue. Then, in the first group, the lung wound was closed by suturing, while in the second group, the wound was sealed by applying adhesive tissue glue. The histopathological samples were collected on the 15th and 30th days postoperatively. The histopathological changes in both groups were relatively similar, manifested by formation of granulation tissue, infiltration of inflammatory cells, congestion and thinking in the wall of blood vessels, hemorrhage, edema, atelectasis, and interstitial emphysema. In conclusion, we can use histoacryl as an effective adhesive tissue glue to close small lung wounds due to the absence of any relative histopathological differences between suturing and histoacryl for closing lung wounds.

Piper betle (P. betle) is a popular medicinal plant in Asia. Plant leaves have been used as a traditional medicine to treat various health conditions. P. betle leaf has plentiful antimicrobial products. The extraction of leaves from P. betle is of high interest for industrial applications. The aqueous leaf extracts of P. betle provided the materials required to produce silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and promoted their antimicrobial activity. UV/vis absorption spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were used to analyze the AgNPs. This study investigated the antimicrobial AgNPs produced by P. betle against S. enteritidis and E. coli. The minimum biocidal concentration (MBC) and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) were the methods used to determine the antimicrobial activity of greenly synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). Plasmon absorbance was shown in correspondence to peak absorption values of 400–500 nm and the color change of the extract to dark brown. The MICs of P. betle and AgNPs were 4.6 mg/mL and 0.06 μg/mL against S. enteritidis and 3.7 mg/mL and 0.06 μg/mL against E. coli, respectively. AgNPs did not cause the hemolysis of RBCs in vitro. Findings reveal AgNPs have higher antimicrobial activity than aqueous leaf extracts of P. betle against S. enteritidis and E. coli.

Levamisole, BCG, vitamin E & Selenium are traditional immunopotentiating agents. This study aimed to monitor and compare between their effects on some clinicopathological and immunological parameters. For this purpose, sixty clinically-healthy 6-months Barki male lambs were equally divided into three groups: The first group was injected S/C with l ml of levapan®10% /50kg B.Wt (100 mg of levamisole) for 3 consecutive days, while the second group was injected S/C with 0.1 ml of BCG vaccine, and the third group was injected S/C for one time with E and Se 0.5 ml /10 kg B. Wt. Blood samples were collected at 0, 3, 7, 14, 21, and 35 days. Clinicopathological and immunological parameters were estimated and statistically analyzed. The three groups displayed a significant enhancement in the estimated immunological parameters (elevated neutrophils count, neutrophils phagocytic activity and index, globulin, and acute phase proteins), but the BCG group had the highest degree of immunopotentiating action for a longer time. The E and Se group and levamisole group were almost equal. On the other hand, the erthyrogram, total antioxidant capacity, liver and kidney functions with the BCG, and levamisole groups were negatively affected, while they were enhanced in the E and Se group for 14 days. In addition, the iron profile showed significant hypoferremia, hypotransferrinemia, and hyperferritinemia with the BCG group, and non-significant changes with both, the levamisole and E and Se groups. We concluded that the BCG has a powerful and sustainable immunomodulatory effect and it is recommended to inject it combined with E and Se to avoid its side effects.