Comparative evaluation between chitosan and atorvastatin on serum lipid profile changes in hyperlipidemic cats

The purpose of the present survey was to determine the effects of the chitosan and atorvastatin on serum lipid profile changes and the influence of time on treatment process in cats. For the management of cholesterol induced hyperlipidemia, twenty-one healthy cats were randomly divided into three equal groups. Group A [control] included seven cats that were fed with cholesterol powder [4g/kg for 10 days]. Group B was similar to group A, but in addition, atorvastatin [5 mg/kg] was administered for 45 days after induced hyperlipidemia. Group C was similar to group B, but chitosan [3 g/cat] was administered instead of atorvastatin. Blood samples were collected four times on days 0, 10, 40 and 55 after challenge. Serum total cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL-C and LDL-C levels were measured using standard commercial kits. Atorvastatin [P<0.001] and chitosan [P<0.01] showed more hypolipidemic activity in lowering triglycerides compared with group A. In a comparison between two drugs and their effects on triglyceride, atorvastatin showed a significant difference with chitosan [P<0.01]. Atorvastatin [P<0.01] and chitosan [P<0.05] showed more activity in lowering cholesterol than the control group. The treated groups [B and C] had good results in lowering LDL-C, compared with group A, on day 45 [P<0.001]. A significant difference was seen only between groups A and B and on day 45 in increase of HDL-C [P<0.01]. In conclusion, it was shown that although both drugs had hypolipidemic activity in cats, atorvastatin was more effective than chitosan. Further experimentation will be needed to elucidate the possible biochemical mechanism of the drugs

Validity and reliability of a Persian version of a questionnaire on knowledge of health care providers about sexually transmitted infections

The aim of this study was to translate into Persian and validate a questionnaire on knowledge about sexually transmitted diseases published by Jaworski and Carey in 2007. The questionnaire was forward-translated by two bilingual translators, and both translations were discussed by an expert team. The questionnaire was then back-translated by two other bilingual translators and discussed with both of them. Two sex-segregated focus group discussions were held with 21 health care providers to evaluate the comprehensibility of the questions. The final Persian version of the questionnaire was administered to 130 randomly selected health care providers in Rasht in 2014 to assess internal consistency and convergent and discriminant validity. The Cronbach's alpha coefficients were 0.84 for the overall questionnaire, 0.75 for the cause/cure subscale and 0.74 for the general knowledge subscale. The correlation between an item and its subscale was significantly higher than its correlation with other subscales. The Persian version of the questionnaire is highly valid and reliable and can be used as a standard instrument for evaluating knowledge about sexually transmitted infections in the Islamic Republic of Iran

[Effects of gestation on serum macrominerals and microminerals in Arabian horse]

Background: Minerals are essential materials in animal reproduction. The determination of these elements is valuable in relation to different conditions in Arabian horses

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of pregnancy on certain macro and micro minerals in Arabian horses

Methods: Blood samples were collected from one hundred apparently healthy mares from different regions of Ahvaz including 50 pregnant mares [light, medium, heavy] and 50 non-pregnant mares. Macro-minerals [calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, sodium and potassium] and micro-minerals [copper, zinc and iron] were measured, using standard common laboratory methods. Methods of O-cresol phetalein, Molybdate reduction, Xylidil blue were used for measurement of calcium, phosphorus and magnesium respectively. Flame photometry was used for measurement of sodium and potassium. Amounts of copper, zinc and iron were measured by atomic absorption spectroscopy

Results: In order to analyze the results, all the data was statistically compared by SPSS-17.0 software. The study of serum calcium levels between the pregnant and non-pregnant mares showed that the differences were not significant. In this study there was significant differences between serum phosphorus levels between pregnant and non-pregnant mares [p<0.05]. The serum phosphorus levels during different stages of pregnancy was significantly different [p<0.05], and the level of serum phosphorus during pregnancy declined in total compared to non-pregnant mares. Serum magnesium did not show significant differences between two groups. Serum sodium levels, compared to the other two groups, did not show significant changes. Changes in serum potassium levels showed significant difference between two groups of pregnant and non-pregnant mares [p<0.05]. The level of potassium in pregnant mare's serum was less than non-pregnant, and the least level of this element was seen in medium pregnancy

Conclusions: Except phosphorus, potassium and zinc, other minerals did not affected different stages of pregnancy. Although the relationship between these changes and pregnancy can be the result of physiological processes, the other factors such as parity, age, nutrition, season, weather conditions and other factors should not be ignored in the evaluation

Molecular detection and identification of Anaplasma species in sheep from Ahvaz, Iran

Ovine anaplasmosis is a tick-borne rickettsial disease, widespread in tropical and subtropical areas. In the present study, a PCR-RFLP method based on major surface protein 4 [MSP4] gene, was utilized for the detection of Anaplasma infection in 119 sheep blood samples collected from different parts of Ahvaz in the southwest of Iran. PCR identified Anaplasma infections in 87.4% [104/119] of the samples in contrast to the routine blood smear examination, which revealed inclusion bodies in only 33.6% [40/119] of samples. RFLP assessment revealed that all PCR positive samples were A. ovis, while for the first time in Iran, a mixed infection with A. marginale was seen in 50% [52/104] of Anaplasma infected samples. These results suggest higher sensitivity of PCR method over the conventional microscopic technique for diagnosis of anaplasmosis, particularly in carrier animals. It also revealed that ovine anaplasmosis caused by A. ovis and A. marginale is present and highly prevalent in Ahvaz and appears to be the first report from this region

[Comparing the radiographic grading scales, knee pain, signs, movement dysfunctions and the quality of life related to osteoarthritis in ex-elite track and field athletes and non-athletes]

The purpose of this study was to compare the radiographic grading scales osteoarthritis, knee pain, signs and movement dysfunctions related to osteoarthritis in daily, sport and recreational activities and also the quality of life between ex-elite track and field athletes and the non-athletes. Thirty ex-elite male track and field athletes were purposefully selected and divided into two equal groups [n=15]. The clinical and radiological methods [Kellgren-Lawrence] and a global and domestic questionnaire of the knee injury and osteoarthritis outcome score [KOOS] were used to diagnose the disease. Results showed a significant lower mean for movement dysfunctions in sport and recreational activities between athletes and non-athletes [P=0.02]. Despite a 30% difference in the mean radiographic grading for osteoarthritis in athletes compared to the non-athletes, the difference was not statistically significant [P=0.90]. Moreover, the lower mean values for knee pain, signs, movement dysfunctions in daily activities and the quality of life in athletes were 10% [P=0.27], 10% [P=0.09], 12% [P=0.13] and 4% [P=0.90], respectively compared to non-athletes, however, the difference was not statistically significant. Participating in track and field competitions at the professional level may improve the movement function of ex-elite athletes

Mast Cell distribution and micro-anatomical location after bilateral uterine artery ligation in mature rabbits

To determine the effect of bilateral uterine artery ligation [BUAL] on mast cell [MC] distribution, 24 mature female rabbits were studied. The rabbits were ovariohysterectomized on day 23, 43 or 63 following BUAL. Histological sections were stained with toluidine blue to determine the MC distribution. In rabbits that had undergone BUAL, MCs were present extensively in the helium of the treated ovaries, in dense groups close to the blood vessels. In the control group, MCs were observed at a medium density around the blood vessels and the number of MCs in the reproductive tract was significantly [P < 0.01] lower than in the test groups. This study demonstrates that, after BUAL, the distribution and numbers of MCs differ between different parts of the reproductive system

Compensatory ovarian changes, mast cell distribution and luminal structure change follwing unilateral ovariectomy in rats

To follow-up the present study, 40 mature female rats were used. The animals were divided into test, control and sham groups. The rats in the test group were laparotomized and unilateral ovariectomy was done. On the 1st and 2nd met-oestrous after operation, the tissue samples were dissected out and processed for histological study. The intact ovary in the test group underwent a significant [P<0.05] hypertrophy and compensatory changes including double angiogenesis, high cytoplasmic vacuolation in granulose cell types of corpus luteum, compensatory follicular development, decreasing of follicular atresia, approximately double ovulation rate and increase in the width of cortex and medulla. The uterine horn on the intact side was approximately similar to the control and sham, while morphometric analyses showed that the horn on the ovariectomized side had significant decrease in the thickness of different layers. Scattering of endometrial glands on the uterine horn of the intact side was normal, showing a dense basophilic appearance in haematoxyline and eosin staining sections. The horn on the ovariectomized side showed low gland scatterin. Histomorphometric analyses showed no significant differences between the vaginas in the three different groups. Distribution of mast cells [MCs] as essential cells participating in angiogenesis was investigated. In the test group, mast cells were considerably increased in number around the blood vessels in the medulla of the intact ovary and intact uterine horn. Mast cells were very low in number on the horn on the ovariectomized side

Influence of antagonistic minerals in soil and pastures on the blood and liver copper in goats in Khuzestan province, Iran

The copper level in the serum of 1280 and liver of 200 goats raised in the mountain areas of Khuzestan province, Iran were determined. Copper, molybdenum and iron content of soil and pastures as well as sulfur content of the pastures were seasonally estimated. Mean serum copper levels of goats in Behbahan, Ramhormoz, Eizeh and Masjed-Soleyman districts were 8.14 +/- 0.21, 1.98 +/- 0.12, 7.74 +/- 0.11 and 6.97 +/- 0.14 micro mol/L, respectively. The results showed that the blood copper of goats in the area was significantly was low in Behbahan, Eizeh and Masjed-Soleyman and at a deficient level in Ramhoromz. The results also revealed a high level of molybdenum in the soil and pasture as well as high amounts of sulfur in pastures of the studied area. In this survey the status of copper in many goat flocks around the studied towns was dangerously low. Many liver samples had a copper concentration below 30 mg/kg and many serum copper concentrations were below normal. The results of this study confirm the presence of a secondary copper deficiency in goats in the mountain areas of Khuzestan province

Histological and anatomical study of the White Rooster of testis, epididymis and ductus deferens

This study was carried out to investigate the histological and anatomical description of the male genital tract in Iranian Native White Roosters [IWR]. The seminiferous tubules had a dense and compact organization. An average of 12 layers of cells was seen in the seminiferous tubules epithelium. The spermatogonal cell layer showed some variation between different birds in 1 -3 layers; however, the spermatocyte, secondary spermatocytes and spermatids were arranged in 2, 3-4 and 3-5 layers, respectively. The testicles were oval in shape, placed on the left and right sides of midline, situated on the caudal aspect of the lungs and the ventral aspect of either the right or left kidneys, and the visceral surfaces of the left and right lobes of the liver. The epididymis was not divided into recognizable parts and was frontally attached to the corresponding testis on its dorsomedial aspect continuous with the ductus deferens. The ducruli efferentis were moderately large with pseudostratified columnar epithelium lined with three cell types, including ciliated, non-ciliated and basal cells. The connective ducts were covered with scare ciliated pseudostratified columnar epithelium. The epithelium of the epididymis was pseudostratified and columnar, embedded in a loose connective tissue. The proximal part of the ductus deferens was covered with pseudostratified columnar epithelium, which was continuous with simple cuboidal epithelium towards the distal portion. Anatomical studies revealed a large sac-like accessory process that consisted of two non-discrete parts in the fronto ventricular region of the testes between the epididymis and the ductus deferens, which was closely related ventrally to the epididymis and laterally to the kidneys. This organ was lined with stratified cuboidal epithelium with thick clear mucosal muscle. The tunica sub mucosa was evident, and the outer layer was composed of a fibrous capsule with a well-developed vascular supply. This suggested that the role of the sac-like accessory process was as an organ to supply sperm, equivalent to the tail of the epididymis in mammals

Effects of dietary Aloe vera on some specific and nonspecific immunity in the common carp [Cyprinus carpio]

In this study, the immunostimulatory effect of dietary Aloe vera crude extract was investigated in Cyprinus carpio. Three hundred fish were randomly divided into four groups. The first group was immunized with Aeromonas hydrophila bacterin [A.h] and was fed a diet contained 0.5% Aloe vera. The second group was immunized with A.h and fed a diet without Aloe vera. The third group was not immunized and fed with a diet that contained 0.5% Aloe vera. The fourth group remained as the control group and was neither immunized nor fed with Aloe vera supplements. Blood samples were taken every 14 d for eight weeks and samples were analyzed for hematological and immunological parameters. White blood count [WBC], red blood count [RBC], packed cell volume [PCV], lysozyme activity, serum bactericidal activity, complement activity, total protein, IgM concentration and specific A. hydrophila antibody were assessed. At the end of treatment, 20 fish from each group were challenged with A. hydrophila. WBC value, antibody level, lysozyme and bactericidal activity were significantly increased in the serum of fish treated with Aloe vera [p<0.05]. No significant differences were seen in the RBC, PCV or complement activity among the groups. The relative percent survival [RPS] was found to be increased in fish fed with Aloe vera. This study indicates that the oral administration of Aloe vera is able to enhance some specific and non-specific immune responses in the common carp

[Alterations of hepatic enzymes in industrial painters exposed to organic solvents in Tehran]

Organic solvents are widely used in different industries and occupations. They have a central role in production and use of paints. This study was carried out to evaluate the hepatic damage due to solvent exposure. In this cross-sectional study 62 painters were selected as cases with at least one year exposure to solvents and 54 employees as controls with no exposure. Demographic and clinical information collected via questionnaire and physical examination and the results of liver function tests, [ALT, AST, ALP], were compared in the two groups. The mean levels of ALT, AST, and ALP were not significantly different between cases and controls; however the mean levels of ALT and AST in individuals with high exposure were significantly more elevated than in persons with low exposures, [subgroups of cases]. We concluded that routine hepatic enzyme tests are not suitable for early detection of hepatic damage in workers exposed to solvents and the use of more sensitive tests should be considered

Studies on the normal synovial fluid from the carpal joints of Iranian water buffaloes: physical and biochemical parameters

Reports on the physical and biochemical parameters ofsynovial fluid in buffaloes are limited. This study was conducted to evaluate the normal parameters ofsynovial fluid on buffaloes that can be very helpful in diagnosis of arthropathy. Synovial fluid of carpal joints was collected by arthrocentesis of the right and left forelimbs in 21 water buffaloes immediately after slaughtering of animals in abattoir. The quality of mucin clot and viscosity were normal in 100% of animals. The synovial fluid was colorless in 50% of cases and the other 50% had a yellowish color. Only 77.5% of samples were transparent and 22.5% were semitransparent. The range of values for different measured parameters were: AST: [27.65 +/- 5.9] IU/L, ALT: [15.08 +/- 2.75] IU/L, LDH: [36.55 +/- 13.28] IU/L, glucose: [59.25 +/- 3.39] mg/dL, total protein: [0.89 +/- 0.055] g/dL, urea nitrogen: [7.96 +/- 1] mg/dL. There was no significant difference between groups according to age, sex and side [left and right forelimbs] for all parameters except ALT and LDH which differed according to sex, ALT and LDH were significantly [P<0.05] greater in females

Normal electrolytes value in cerebrospinal fluid and serum in the Iranian Khuzestan buffaloes

To determine concentrations of certain electrolytes in cerebrospinal fluid [CSF] and serum of Khuzestan native buffaloes, samples of CSF from lumbosacral cistern and blood from jugular vein were obtained from 70 clinically-healthy male [n = 30] and female [n = 40], mature [n = 34] and immature [n = 36] animals. Samples were analyzed for sodium and potassium by flame photometry, magnesium by atomic absorption spectrophotometry, calcium by ortocresol phetalein method and phosphorous by phosphomolibdate method using an automated biochemical analyzer. Statistical analyses showed that regardless of age and sex, the mean values of sodium [139.0 +/- 0.70 mmol/1] and magnesium [1.50 +/- 0.24 mmol/1] in CSF were significantly [P<0.001] higher than their mean values in serum; 134.5 +/- 6.3 mmol/1 and 0.72 +/- 0.08 mmol/1, respectively. However, the mean values of potassium [3.47 +/- 0.67 mmol/1], calcium [2.14 +/- 0.25 mmol/1] and phosphorus [1.22 +/- 0.17 mmol/1] in CSF were significantly [P<0.001] lower than their mean values in serum; 5,34 +/- 0.92 mmol/1, 2.33 +/- 0.17 mmol/1 and 1.44 +/- 0.08 mmol/1, respectively. Moreover, in males, females, matures and immature animals, the mean values of sodium and magnesium in CSF were significantly higher than those in the serum and the mean values of potassium, calcium and phosphorus in serum were significantly higher than those in CSF [P<0.01]. Age of animals did not affect any of these electrolytes. The mean value of serum phosphorus in females was significantly higher than that in males [P<0.001]. However, the mean values for potassium, calcium and phosphorus in CSF were significantly higher in males than in females [P<0.05]

Serodiagnosis of sarcocystosis in water buffalo [Bubalus bubalis] by ELISA test and its comparison with digestion method

To compare the ELISA test with digestion method for dignosis sarcocystosis in water buffalo and estimate its sensitivity and specificity. Cross sectional study.Three hundred slaughtered water buffaloes in Ahwaz abattoir.Blood and oesophageal muscles were examined. Oesophageal muscles were examined for sarcocystis by both macroscopic and microscopic [digestion method] examination.Then the ELISA test were designed and compared with digestion method.Finally its sensitivity and specificity were determined. Sensitivity, specificity and 95% confidence intervals were determined by comparing the results obtained by the ELISA assay and digestion method. Me nemar test were used for comparing the percentage of positive cases and their correlation. While specific anti-sarcocytis antibodies were detected in 54.3% of cases macroscpic and microscopic infection were 20% and 57%, respectively. Furthermore, while the positive results of the macroscopic examination significantly differed from those values of the digestion and ELISA methods [P<0.01], no differences were observed between the positive results of the microscopic infection [digestion method] and the ELISA test [P>0.05]. Conclusion: ELISA test providing an effective and reliable means for detecting sarcocystosis in naturally infected water buffaloes. Its simplicity and ease of performance makes it particulary suitable for using in large-scale epidemiological surveys of livestock