Serological Prevalence of Brucellosis among Donkeys (Equus asinus) in Some Local Government Areas of Yobe State,Nigeria

A cross-sectional study of prevalence of antibody against Brucella organisms was conducted among donkeys in three local government areas of Yobe State, northeastern Nigeria. Three hundred adult donkeys of both sexes were sampled, with 100 samples each from local government areas Bursari, Gaidam, and Machina. The overall serological prevalence of brucellosis among donkeys in the three local government areas by both rose bengal plate test (RBPT) and microtiter serum agglutination test (MSAT) was 15 (5.0%), of which five (1.7%) were male and 10 (3.3%) were female donkeys. The overall prevalence by competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (cELISA) was 10 (3.3%), of which four (1.33%) were male and six (2.0%) were female donkeys. There was a significant association between the female sex of the donkeys and the serological reaction to RBPT, MSAT, and cELISA (P < .05). Of the 100 sera sampled from Bursari, five (5%) were positive by RBPT/MSAT, which comprised two (2%) male and three (3.0%) female donkeys. There was no significant association between the sex of the donkeys and the serological reaction (P > .05). Of the 100 samples from Gaidam, four (4.0%) tested positive by RBPT/MSAT, of which one (1.0%) was male and three (3.0%) were female donkeys (P < .05). Six (6.0%) of the 100 donkey sera samples from Machina tested positive by both RBPT and MSAT, which comprised two (2.0%) male and four (4.0%) female donkeys. There was no significant association between the male sex of the donkeys and the serological reaction (P > .05); however, there was a significant association between the female sex of the donkeys and the serological reaction to both RBPT and MSAT (P < .05). Of the 100 samples from Bursari and the 100 samples from Gaidam, three (3%) from each were positive by cELISA, which comprised one (1%) male and two (2%) female donkeys. There was no statistically significant association between the sex of donkeys and the serological reaction (P > .05). Of the 100 samples tested from Machina, two (2%) male and two (2%) female donkeys were positive for Brucella antibodies by cELISA. No statistically significant association was demonstrated between the sex of the donkeys and the serological reaction to cELISA (P > .05). Because of the importance of donkeys to humans as a source of draft power, infected donkeys could be a source of Brucella infection to humans through close contact, through the respiratory system via contaminated dust or droplets, and through aborted fetuses and discharges from the genitalia.     

The Reliability of Two Different Protocols for Pharmacologically Induced Ejaculation in Donkeys (Equus asinus)

The aim of this study was to pharmacologically induce ejaculation in male donkeys. Two methods for pharmacological ejaculation were used. The first method was the administration of xylazine (0.66 mg/kg, intravenous); the second method was the administration of detomidine chloride (0.02 mg/kg, intramuscular), and when ejaculation was not achieved in 15 minutes, the administration of a half dose of detomidine chloride (0.01 mg/kg, intramuscular) was repeated. Both of these methods were used in all animals. In the study, 10 male donkeys were used. After the administration of xylazine, no ejaculation was observed. After the administration of detomidine, ejaculation was achieved in 20% of the cases (2 of 10). We assume that these methods are not satisfactory for ex-copula induction of ejaculation in male donkeys.     

Reference Intervals of Serum Protein Concentrations from Clinically Healthy Female Ragusana Donkeys (Equus asinus) Determined by Cellulose Acetate Electrophoresis

The aim of this study was to evaluate total serum protein concentration measured using biuret reaction and the protein fractions determined using acetate cellulose electrophoresis in Ragusana donkeys (Equus asinus). Blood samples were collected from 68 clinically healthy female donkeys by jugular venipuncture. The serum levels of total proteins were determined using biuret method, and the separation of proteins was performed using acetate cellulose electrophoresis. Coefficients of variation were also calculated for within-assay precision, and were found to be less than 5% for α- and β₁-globulins and 8% or less for albumin, β₂-, and γ-globulins. A total of five protein fractions were separated and quantified: albumin, α-, β₁-, β₂-, and γ-globulins. Data obtained from young and adult subjects were compared using the Mann–Whitney U test. Reference intervals (2.5%-97.5% quantiles) were determined for total proteins (50.0-84.0 g/L), albumin (16.2-36.6 g/L), α-globulins (4.85-19.5 g/L), β₁-globulins (2.25-10.35 g/L), β₂-globulins (3.30-14.85 g/L), γ-globulins (10.0-30.5 g/L), and albumin/globulin ratio (0.41-1.13). In relation to age, statistically significant differences were found in total protein concentration and γ-globulins. The results obtained in the present study contributed to establish reference intervals of serum protein fractions obtained using acetate cellulose electrophoresis in female Ragusana donkeys to be used by practitioners for health control.     

The Healing Potential of Plantago lanceolata Ointment on Collagenase-Induced Tendinitis in Burros (Equus asinus)

This study was carried out to evaluate the healing potential of water-soluble extract of Plantago lanceolata as a topical ointment on experimental tendinitis in burros. Tendinitis was induced by injection of 2,500 U of bacterial collagenase in the superficial digital flexor tendon of both forelimbs of six male burros. Tendinitis was confirmed ultrasonographically. 48 hours after collagenase injection, two grams of 10% P lanceolata ointment was applied on one limb (treatment group) and the same amount of eucerin (the vehicle of the ointment) on the other limb (control group), every other day for 6 weeks. Ultrasonographic examination of the tendon was performed weekly during the study and mean cross-sectional area of the superficial digital flexor tendon was measured, which was found to increase significantly after injection of collagenase in both groups. From the third week, it decreased significantly in the treatment group in comparison with the control group. At the end of the study, the animals were euthanized for histopathological study of the tendons. In control group, degenerative changes in tendon could be seen, whereas significant degree of healing was observed in the treatment group. It can thus be concluded that the P lanceolata ointment was effective in promoting the healing process of the tendon.     

A Comparative Study Evaluating Three Bioscaffold Augmentation Devices Used for Superficial Digital Flexor Tenorrhaphy in Donkeys (Equus Asinus) by Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Ultrasonography

Little is known about using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in evaluating the healing properties of superficial digital flexor tenorrhaphy in equines. The present study was designed to carry out in vivo comparative evaluation of normal and repaired superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) in donkeys, based on MRI, ultrasonography, clinical and histopathological features. Eighteen clinically healthy donkeys were assigned for three treatment trials (n = 6) using three bioscaffold materials (bovine pericardium xenograft, tendon allograft, and allograft shielding by bovine pericardium), in addition to six healthy donkeys to serve as control group. Clinical signs for each animal were scored, and the sum of all clinical indexes was calculated. MRI and ultrasonographic examinations of each donkey were carried out at 45 and 90 days postoperatively in the three treated groups, and were compared with those in the control group. Both clinical and imaging characteristics were compared and statistically analyzed at each time point. The echogenicity (P < .0039), cross-sectional area (P < .0490), and fiber alignment (P < .0077) were different at 45 and 90 days postoperatively in the shielding group than in the other two groups, with no difference in the histological features in comparison with the control group, based on the median and range analysis at 90 days postoperatively. In conclusion, MRI and ultrasonography initiate a new paradigm in monitoring the healing progression and case prognosis of SDFT tenorrhaphy with the bioscaffold augmentation devices, either xenogenic or allogenic, which provided a good alternative technique and an accelerated SDFT healing with minimal adhesions in donkeys.     

Haemosiderin deposition in Donkey (Equus asinus) livers: Comparison of quantitative histochemistry for iron and liver iron content

Post mortem liver samples from 12 donkeys (Equus asinus) aged 21-57 years (4 females, 1 stallion, 7 geldings), were assessed chemically for copper and iron content on a wet weight basis and histologically for stainable iron. Chemical liver copper content ranged from 2.7 to 4.8 μg/g (mean 3.5 ± 0.05 μg/g). Chemical liver iron content ranged from 524 to 5010 μg/g (mean 1723 ± 1258 μg/g). Histochemical iron was measured morphometrically using a computer-based image analysis system; percentage section area staining for iron ranged from 0.84% to 26.69% (mean 10.82 ± 8.36%). There was no clear correlation, within the wide range of iron values, between histochemically demonstrable iron and chemically measured iron content. No clear age-related increase was apparent for either parameter in these aged donkeys. The accumulation of iron in the liver of donkeys may represent a physiological haemosiderosis rather than pathological haemochromatosis.     

Clinical dental examinations of 357 donkeys in the UK. Part 1: Prevalence of dental disorders

Reasons for performing study: Dental disorders have a high prevalence in older donkeys and horses, but the nature and pathogenesis of many of these disorders have yet to be established. Objectives: The identification and determination of the prevalence of important dental disorders in different age groups in a large single population of donkeys, to establish a better understanding of the nature and pathogenesis of these disorders. Methods: A prospective cross‐sectional study was performed on the donkey population at The Donkey Sanctuary with detailed oral examinations of 357 donkeys within 7 different age groups (age range 2–53 years) recorded. Results: The prevalence of dental disease in all donkeys was 73%, increasing in prevalence from 28% in the youngest to 98% in the oldest age group. There was an increase in prevalence of commonly recognised dental disorders with increasing age, such as: diastemata (3.8% in youngest to 86% in oldest group); missing teeth (0–56%); overgrown teeth (15–86%); worn teeth (8–84%); displaced teeth (0–38%); and periodontal disease (0–28%). Conclusions: There was a significant increase in the prevalence of dental disorders with increasing age with the largest significant increase for most dental disorders occurring in the 15–20 year age group. Potential significance: Most dental disorders significantly increase in prevalence in the 15–20 year age group and, therefore, prophylactic geriatric dental treatment in donkeys should be commenced from age 15 years.     

Comparative Effect of Epidural Administration of Xylazine or Dexmedetomidine on Echocardiographic Dimensions and Cardiac Indices in Clinically Healthy Donkeys (Equus asinus)

The aim of the present study was to assess and compare the changes of the echocardiographic dimensions and cardiac function indices after epidural injection of xylazine or dexmedetomidine in clinically healthy donkeys. In an experimental prospective randomized cross-over study, 10 healthy adult donkeys were injected with saline solution, xylazine (0.20 mg kg⁻¹), and dexmedetomidine (0.005 mg kg⁻¹) into the epidural space between the second and third coccygeal vertebrae. Echocardiographic dimensions as well as cardiac function indices were assessed using a 2–3.9 MHz sector transducer, at the left paracostal ultrasonographic window, at zero, 15, 30, 60, 90, 120, and 180 minutes after administration of these medications. Epidural injection of xylazine or dexmedetomidine produced moderate sedation, complete bilateral perineal analgesia, and mild ataxia in all studied donkeys. There was a significant (P < .05) decrease in the interventricular septum thickness at end systole 60 minutes, stroke volume 30–120 minutes, fractional shortening 120 minutes, and ejection fraction 90–120 minutes after administration of xylazine or dexmedetomidine when compared with saline solution. Left ventricular end diastolic volume was significantly (P < .05) increased 60 minutes following epidural injection of dexmedetomidine compared with xylazine and saline solution. There was a significant (P < .05) increase in the left ventricular internal diameter at end diastole 90–120 minutes and left ventricular end systolic volume 60–180 minutes after administration of xylazine or dexmedetomidine in comparison with saline solution. In conclusion, epidural use of xylazine or dexmedetomidine in donkeys induced mild and transient effect on echocardiographic dimensions as well as cardiac function indices. Therefore, care should be taken when such medications are to be administered into the epidural space in donkeys with a pre-anesthetic cardiovascular compromise.     

Effect of age and sex on plasma cortisol and dehydroepiandrosterone concentrations in the dog (Canis familiaris)

Limited data exist on age-related physiological variations in plasma concentrations of cortisol and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) in dogs, despite their potential role in the pathophysiology of ageing. This study examined plasma cortisol and DHEA concentrations and cortisol/DHEA ratio variations, according to age and sex in 311 dogs, aged from two months to 16 years. Before adulthood, DHEA concentrations were higher in peri-pubertal males. During adulthood, cortisol and DHEA were higher in males than females. Among females, DHEA was lower in older dogs, but the decrease was observed at an older age in intact than ovariectomised females. Variations in the cortisol/DHEA ratio inversely reflected those of DHEA. Results indicate that testicles are an important source of DHEA in males, and that DHEA is mainly secreted by the adrenal glands in females. The ovaries’ contribution to circulating DHEA appears to be limited, although it may partially compensate an age-related decrease in adrenal secretion.     

Toxoplasma gondii Infections in Chickens (Gallus domesticus): Prevalence,Clinical Disease,Diagnosis and Public Health Significance

Chickens are considered one of the most important hosts in the epidemiology of Toxoplasma gondii infection because they are an efficient source of infection for cats that excrete the environmentally resistant oocysts and because humans may become infected with this parasite after eating undercooked infected chicken meat. The objective of this study is to review worldwide prevalence of T. gondii infection in chickens and to assess the role of infected chickens in the epidemiology of toxoplasmosis in humans. A very high prevalence of the parasite was found in chickens raised in backyards (up to 100%) and free‐range organic (30–50%) establishments.     

Prevalence of canine coronavirus (CCoV) in dog in Japan: detection of CCoV RNA and retrospective serological analysis

We collected rectal swabs from dogs in Japan during 2011 to 2014, and canine coronavirus (CCoV) nucleocapsid gene was detected by RT-PCR. The relationship between CCoV infection and the manifestation of diarrhea symptoms was investigated, and a correlation was noted (df=1, χ²=8.90, P<0.005). The types of CCoV detected in samples from CCoV-infected dogs were CCoV-I in 88.9% and CCoV-II in 7.4%, respectively. We retrospectively investigated the seroprevalence of CCoV-I in dogs in Japan during 1998 to 2006. The sera were tested with a neutralizing antibody test. In the absence of CCoV-I laboratory strain, we used feline coronavirus (FCoV)-I that shares high sequence homology in the S protein with CCoV-I. 77.7% of the sera were positive for neutralizing anti-FCoV-I antibodies.     

四川省部分地区山羊沙门氏菌健康带菌率及耐药性调查

为了解四川省山羊沙门氏菌带菌情况,本试验采集了四川省部分地区5个规模化山羊养殖场表观健康山羊粪便196份,经BPW预增菌、TTB选择性增菌后,采用靶向invA基因的PCR方法检测沙门氏菌的带菌率;对阳性样本进行细菌分离鉴定,随机选择25株沙门氏菌分离株测定其对15种抗菌药物的敏感性。结果显示,山羊沙门氏菌的平均带菌率为54.59%。药敏试验结果显示,分离株均对丁胺卡那敏感,而对其余14种抗菌药物呈不同程度的耐药,多重耐药菌株占88%,其中耐2~7种药物的占52%,耐9~13种药物的占36%。结果表明,四川省部分地区山羊的沙门氏菌健康带菌率较高,且多重耐药性普遍,其公共卫生意义值得进一步研究。     

Prevalence of Anaplasma phagocytophilum in fallow deer (Dama dama) and feeding ticks from an Italy preserve

Up to date, information concerning the Anaplasma phagocytophilum infection in fallow deer is scant, therefore, to verify its prevalence in these ungulates serological and PCR screenings were performed on blood of 72 fallow deer hunted in a Central-Northern Italian preserve. Molecular analyses were also performed on 90 ticks removed from the animals.A. phagocytophilum infection in fallow deer was confirmed in 20 out 72 by IFA assay and in 11 out 72 by PCR. The sequence obtained revealed a complete genetic homology among the blood samples and strong degrees of homology with other European isolates. Considering the 90 ticks collected we found that 7.3% of Ixodes ricinus harboured A. phagocytophilum specific DNA. The data obtained confirmed that fallow deer can be a competent host for A. phagocytophilum and, therefore, that may represent a biological reservoir playing an important role in the epidemiological scenarios of the infection, in the geographical areas where is widespread.     

Prevalence and antimicrobial susceptibility of Salmonella spp. in small Indian mongooses (Herpestes auropunctatus) in Grenada,West Indies

Intestinal samples from 156 small Indian mongooses (Herpestes auropunctatus) collected island-wide in Grenada from April 2011 to March 2013 were examined for the presence of Salmonella enterica spp. Nineteen (12%) mongooses were culture-positive for S. enterica spp. of which five serotypes were identified. Salmonella javiana and S. Montevideo were the most commonly isolated serotypes. The other serotypes isolated were S. Rubislaw, S. Panama and S. Arechavaleta. All isolates were susceptible to amoxicillin–clavulanic acid, ampicillin, cefotaxime, ceftazidime, ciprofloxacin, enrofloxacin, gentamicin, nalidixic acid, imipenem and trimethoprim–sulfamethoxazole. One isolate (S. Montevideo) showed resistance to tetracycline and intermediate resistance to streptomycin. The five isolated Salmonella serotypes are potential human pathogens suggesting that the mongoose may play a role in the epidemiology of human salmonellosis in Grenada.     

A Cross-Sectional Survey of Foaling-Related Parameters of Jennies (Equus asinus) Under Smallholder Farm Conditions in Northeast China

It is important to assess the reproductive efficiency and improve the reproductive management to promote the donkey population development. The overall foaling-related parameters of jennies under smallholder farm conditions in China were hardly under investigation. A cross-sectional survey of randomly selected 694 smallholder farms was conducted in 40 villages in the north, east, and south areas of Western Liaoning Province and Eastern Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region between March and July, 2017. Foaling-related parameters were assessed such as the mean age at first foaling, foaling rate and foaling interval during 2014–2017. Only two-thirds of the adult jennies foaled during the 3-year survey period and delivered a foal every 1.9 years. The mean age at first foaling was 45.3 months. The lowest incidence of foaling rate was in coincidence with the peak of foaling. The overall mean values for the foaling rate and foaling interval were 75% and 500.5 days, respectively. Significant changes of foaling rates before the age of 15 years and foaling intervals in the first 8 parities were not observed. The results indicate that the jennies could maintain relatively fine foaling-related parameters under smallholder farm conditions in northeast of China. However, the foaling rates hardly remained high during the whole breeding season represented a major loss to the donkey breeding.     

The Prevalence of Helminths in the Alimentary Tract of Geese (Anser anser domesticus) in Kars District,Turkey

Veterinary Research Communications -     

Prevalence and risk factors of Coxiella burnetii seropositivity in Danish beef and dairy cattle at slaughter adjusted for test uncertainty

Antibodies to Coxiella burnetii have been found in the Danish dairy cattle population with high levels of herd and within herd seroprevalences. However, the prevalence of antibodies to C. burnetii in Danish beef cattle remains unknown. The objectives of this study were to (1) estimate the prevalence and (2) identify risk factors associated with C. burnetii seropositivity in Danish beef and dairy cattle based on sampling at slaughter.     

A review of the characteristics and treatment of methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in the horse and a case series of MRSA infection in four horses

Methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is an emerging cause of serious bacterial infection in the horse, with an increasing number of cases reported over the last decade. MRSA, along with other commensal staphylococcal species, can reside on the mucosa of several sites in the horse, particularly the nose. Nasal carriage of MRSA appears rare amongst horses in the community, although a higher prevalence has been found in hospitalised horses. MRSA infections can involve a variety of body sites, but most commonly encountered are soft tissue infections of either traumatic or surgical wounds. MRSA strain types isolated from horses are typically multidrug‐resistant and usually differ from those recovered from humans and other small animal species. Treatment of infection can be prolonged and is dependent on timely, accurate diagnosis and on appropriate therapy; often guided by antimicrobial susceptibility testing. The purpose of this review is to provide clinically relevant information for the equine practitioner and, for illustration, the diagnosis, treatment and outcome of 4 clinical cases of MRSA infection in horses is discussed.