effect of oral administration of pregnant cow's milk on male rat's spermatogenesis

Background: Nowadays, infertility is one of the major problems of human societies

Objectives: To study oral administration of bulk milk and milk of late pregnant cows on spermatogenesis of male rats

Methods: The first group of rats from day 1 of pregnancy until the end of lactation and then their male pups to maturity were treated with late pregnant cow's milk. The second group from day 12 of pregnancy up to 15 days after delivery was treated with late pregnant cow's milk. The third group of rats from day 1 of pregnancy until the end of lactation and then their male pups to maturity were treated with bulk milk. The fourth group from day 12 of pregnancy up to 15 days after delivery was treated with bulk milk. Rats in the control group during the study period were only fed with special food of rats and at the end viability, types of movement [progressive and in-place movement, immobility], number of sperms and also the serum testosterone level were elevated

Results: Administration of both types of milk had no effect on in-place movement and also viability of sperms of experimental groups but they could cause a significant increase in sperm immobility and a significant decrease in number of sperms of experimental groups. Also,the level of serum testosterone of experimental groups was significantly re-duced in comparison with control group [p<0.05]

Conclusions: Overall, it was determined consumption of late pregnant cow's milk and bulk milk when it contains high estrogen can cause changes in some sperm species that are involved in male reproduction

Cutaneous neuro-myofibroblastic sarcoma induced by avian leukosis virus subgroup J in a rooster [Gallus gallus domesticus]

An adult native cock [Gallus gallus domesticus] referred to the aviary clinic with multiple different sizes of round dermal nodules. The bird died few days later, and was then submitted for further evaluation. Macroscopic and microscopic examinations as well as a PCR test were done to identify type and cause of the tumor. In histopathological assessment of biopsy specimen, it consisted of interlacing bundles of fibroblasts that orientated in different directions with plump or elongated spindle shaped nuclei and fairly abundant cytoplasm. At necropsy several large white nodules were implanted in lung and liver. Microscopically the proliferated fibroblastic cells were invaded to both organs, and were similar to those described for skin lesion. The tumor cells had immunoreaction for alpha smooth muscle actin, vimentin and S100 protein, whereas they were negative for desmin and pancytokeratin, suggesting a diagnosis of metastatic neuro-myofibroblastic sarcoma. A PCR test specific for avian leukosis virus subgroup J [ALV-J] confirmed the presence of that virus in tumor specimens. Sequencing and phylogenetic analysis showed a relatively low similarity in the LTR segment [90%] of the studied virus with other ALV-J strains. It might be the first report of cutaneous neuro-myofibroblastic sarcoma, potentiated to metastasis to other organs induced by ALV-J

Atypical digital dermatitis of bovine claw in dairy cows: clinical and histopathologic findings

Digital dermatitis is an inflammation of the skin on the bulbs of the heel which cause lameness and economic losses. Atypical digital dermatitis is a new form of an old disease which has been reported recently in the USA, UK and Netherlands. The purpose of this study is the clinical and histopathological evaluation of claw lesions with exposed corium in cases of concurrent digital dermatitis in two endemically infected herds without preventative herd strategies for BDD. The majority of non-healing claw lesion samples included in this study were taken from 'typical' clinical cases, namely, from lame cows examined in the course of veterinary practice by one author over a period of 8 months in two commercial dairy farms in Iran. Fourty five lame cows with claw lesions were selected for clinical and histopathological purposes. Examination of the affected claws revealed a topical granular appearance, painful to touch, prone to bleed with distinctive odour and extensive regional loss of the claw horn. Histologically, the epidermis was lost completely over the extension of sole ulcer lesion. The underlying dermis was intensely infiltrated by inflammatory cells, mainly polymorphic leukocytes, and in deep, newly formed capillaries were embedded in the stroma. Hyalinized thrombi were also significant in small blood vessels. In wall ulcer, there was extremely proliferative epidermis, 2-3 times with severe acanthosis and rete ridge formation. Stratum corneum was hyperplastic. The stratum corneum were filled with neutrophils, cellular debris and erythrocytes lodged in the orthokeratotic stratum corneum. In all the observed cases, the disorder included penetration through the horn capsule lesions to involve the corium, resulting in damage of the horn-forming cells. This new manifestation seems to be a combination of metabolic and infectious diseases

[Oak poisoning [Quercus castaneifolia] mortality report in a sheep flock]

Within a few consecutive days, 8 cases of lambs' mortality were reported from the Golestan National Park area [Golestan province]. According to the farmer's claims, the disease has occurred only in less than one year old lambs whose major feeding was free grazing in the oak rich areas and also collected and manually feeding with new and fresh buds of this tree. Ascites, hydrothorax, hydropericarditis, intestine, abomasum and mesenteric subserosal accumulation of fluid, and swelling of the kidney with cortex hemorrhage was observed in necropsy. Microscopic pathology revealed tubular and glomerular nephritis with tubular hyaline casts and mucosal necrosis with submucosal and serosal edema of GI specimens. Based on available epidemiological data, macro and microscopic pathology, oak poisoning is the most likely cause of mortality in this flock. It seems the major cause of mortality is the high sensitivity of these young animals and furthermore, the farmers insistence on feeding them the fresh buds of this tree

Leucocytozoonosis in domestic birds in southwestern Iran: an ultrastructural study

Leucocytozoonosis is a disease of birds caused by obligate intracellular protozoa of the genus Leucoytozoon. We determined the prevalence of Leucocytozoon spp. using light and transmission electron microscopy in domestic birds in southwest of Iran. A total of 825 blood smears from 275 birds were examined for presence of infection. The structure morphology of "Leucocytozoon spp. was studied using light and electron microscopy. Forty-four [16.0%] of the birds were positives for Leucocytozoon. The detected parasite were found in 14 chickens [5.1%], 12 geese [4.3%], 10 ducks [3.6%], and 8 turkeys [2.9%]. The majority of the records were from the northeastern regions. Leucocytozoonosis are distributed in the Lorestan province bird population and electron microscopy can resolve the problem to distinguish between similar species of Leucocytozoon

Hepatoprotective effects of purified oleuropein from olive leaf extract against ethanol-induced damages in the rat

Olives and olive oil contain large amounts of oleuropein. This phenolic compound is responsible for their bitter taste and pungent aroma and has been recognized as a powerful hypotensive, hypoglycemic and antioxidant agent. Thus, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the antioxidant properties of oleuropein on ethanol-induced oxidative damage and to examine its beneficial effects on liver function. Thirty-two adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four equal groups: the first group served as untreated control

The second group of rats were given ethanol [4 g/kg] orally. Group 3 received oral oleuropein [15 mg/kg]

The final group of rats were fed ethanol [4 g/kg], 120 min after oral administration of oleuropein (15 mg/kg]

All of the treatments were applied for 4 weeks via gavage. Administration of ethanol to rats induced toxicity in their liver, as shown by the significant elevation in the serum levels of transaminases, total cholesterol as well as liver histopathological findings. Elevation of glutathione peroxidase activity, the hepatic main antioxidant enzyme, and total glutathione was observed to suppress oxidative stress in the ethanol group

TBARS [an indicator of lipid peroxidation] concentration is also increased in ethanol-treated rats

In contrast, oleuropein during ethanol treatment in rats resulted in a higher antiperoxidative enzyme activity, catalase, and inhibited toxicity to the liver, as monitored by the reduction in ALT and AST levels and TBARS concentration. It is suggested that oleuropein possesses beneficial antioxidant effects against ethanol-induced liver toxicity, and therefore use of olive leaf extract may have prophylactic value in reducing the common complications resulting from oxidative stress in alcoholism?

Mixed cutaneous round cells tumor in a cock [Gallus domesticus]: a case report

Cutaneous round cell tumors have been classified as mast cell tumor [MCT], histiocytoma [HCT], lymphosarcoma, undifferentiated round cell tumors and occasionally rhabdomyosarcoma in veterinary medicine. An adult cock [Gallus domesticus] showing a large solitary integument mass raised on dorso bilateral of cervical part, extending to intercapsular and cranial mid part of the back was referred to the birds clinic of the faculty of veterinary medicine at the university of Tehran. Microscopic examination revealed sheeted cells with large, round to oval nuclei with each one containing one or more prominent nucleoli with scant cytoplasm. The myofibrils of the neck were degenerated by aggressive tumor cells. The condition was differentiated from other round cell tumors by electron microscope, histochemical staining, as well as the application of a large panel of antibodies. Polymerase chain reaction failed to confirm the involvement of both Marek's disease virus and avian leukosis virus subgroup-J. It was concluded that the tumor cells were consistent with both B-cell lymphocytes and histiocytes that unusually covered the entire dermal layer of dorsal neck skin. This unusual cutaneous lymphoma was named as lymphoblastic histiocytoma

Estrogen-induced mammary fibroadenoma in a lamb: hormonal and immunohistochemical aspects

A fibroadenoma was diagnosed in the mammary gland of a lamb by immunohistochemical method and measurement of oestradiol hormone. The tumor was characterized by an encapsulated firm mass with a creamy-white cut surface. Histologically, it consisted of variably-sized sinus ducts, covered by a single or multiple layers of proliferated epithelial cells, and embedded in a loose connective tissue. Immunohistochemical results revealed that more than half of the epithelial tumor cells were labeled only for estrogen, but not for progesterone. Moreover, the high level of plasma ER concentration in contrast to the normal PR values was consistent with immunohistochemical findings. Both results suggested that reproductive hormones, exclusively estrogen, influenced the developmental stage of the mammary glands and are responsible for neoplastic changes in this case. This study indicated for the first time the novel evidence of estrogen-induced fibroadenoma in a 2-month-old lamb mammary gland tissue

Prevalence and ultrastructural study of aegyptianella spp. in domestic birds from southwestern area, Iran

Aegyptianellosis is a disease caused by small intraerythrocytic inclusions which is restricted to the area of Africa, Asia and extreme southern Europe. In this study the prevalence of Aegyptianella spp. was evaluated in four genera of domestic poultry in the northern, southern and central regions of Lorestan province from April to September 2008. A total of 275 native adult birds including chickens, ducks, geese, and turkeys which were bred in free range pasture condition were used for blood sampling in the rural areas of the regions. Twenty one [7.6%] out of 275 birds used in this study were infected with the organisms. The detected Aegyptianella were found in 7 chickens [33.3%], 2 ducks [9.5%], 7 geese [33.3%], and 5 turkeys [23.9%], respectively. The majority of the records were from the northeastern regions. Therefore, more than one-half of the infected birds with the Aegyptianella species were located in these regions. The structure morphology of Aegyptianella spp. was studied using light and electron microscopy. The results of the study by electron microscopy demonstrated the developmental stage as well as implemented similar and different extra/intra genus

Spontaneous differentiated squamous cell carcinoma of cheek pouch in a Syrian hamster

A 2-year-old male hamster was presented because of left facial swelling and salivation. Necropsy was performed and affected cheek pouch with tissue samples of regional and internal organs were submitted for histopathological study. In histopathological examination it was found that the tumor consisted of cords and islands of tumoric epithelial cells which were diffused in the dermis. Vacoulation of cytoplasm in many cells were striking features. The lesion was infiltrated by mononuclear cells. These findings were consistent with differentiated squamous cell carcinoma, which restricted only to the left cheek pouch. There was no evidence of tumoral invasion to the other organs. Cheek pouch spontaneous tumors in hamsters have been rarely reported

Psittacine beak and feather disease in Iran, molecular and histopathologic detection

Psittacine beak and feather disease [PBFD] is a major viral disease in wild and captive psittaciformes all around the world. The disease was suspected in a 7 years old lesser sulphur-crested cockatoos [Cacatua sulphured] with a minor feather loss at the back of neck and head. The bird was comprehensively examined by macroscopic pathology, histopathology and polymerase chain reaction [PCR]. Marked intracellular edema of the keratinocytes and necrosis were evident in histopathological observation of dystrophic feather follicles. Numerous macrophages with cytoplasmic inclusions [botryoid] and Prevasculitis were also present in the dermis. Histopathologically, the feather lesions and inclusions were typical of PBFD. The presence of psittacine beak and feather disease virus [BFDV] DNA was confirmed by PCR. This is the first documented report of the occurrence of the PBFD in Iran

Diagnosis and management of hypoglycaemia due to pancreatic insulin-secreting neoplasia in a German shepherd dog

A 7-year-old castrated male German shepherd dog was presented with a 10-day history of intermittent lethargy, weakness and episodic seizures. Laboratory findings after admission revealed hypoglycaemia and hyperinsulinaemia. Provisional diagnosis of insulinoma was made based on the presence of concurrent hypoglycaemia and elevated insulin level. In exploratory laparotomy a small nodular mass was detected on the pancreas. Other abdominal organs were normal in gross inspection. The mass was removed surgically. Histopathology of the excised pancreatic nodule confirmed the diagnosis of insulinoma. The dog became seizure free following the surgical operation

Isolation of Leptospira canicola from a dog in Iran: first report

A 5-year-old male cross-bred guard dog with signs of anorexia, vomiting and jaundice was referred to Small Animal Hospital, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran. Initial diagnostic laboratory tests revealed leukocytosis, thrombocytopenia, haemoconcentration, azotaemia, high liver enzyme activities, proteinuria and bilirubinuria. Aggressive therapeutic procedures failed to improve the animal deteriorated condition and finally the animal died. After necropsy, specimens were collected for microscopic examination as part of completing diagnostic procedures. Results of urine bacterial culture confirmed leptospirosis as a causative agent. Furthermore, numerous large spiral bacteria were also observed under dark-field microscope. This article summarizes and characterizes the historical and physical findings, laboratory data, bacterial culture and pathological diagnostic features of leptospirosis in the cross-bred dog. Based on published data, this is the first case of confirmed Leptospira isolation from a dog in Iran

Dog-bite induced fatal meningitis in a kitten: a case report

Bacterial infection of the brain is relatively rare in dogs and cats. A cat at approximately three months of age was admitted to the clinic with a history of dog bite seven days before admission. On clinical presentation, the cat was unconscious and in lateral recumbency. One hour after admission, the cat developed severe apnoea and asystole. Cardiorespiratory resuscitation was unsuccessful and the animal died. Necropsy and histopathological examination revealed a purulent meningitis. A sample of purulent exudates was submitted for microbiological examination. Pasteurella multocida was isolated from bacterial culture. Due to the history of dog biting, direct inoculation of P. multocida into the subdural space following penetrating dog-bite wounds was suggested to be the cause of meningitis and death of the kitten. This report highlights the importance of antibiotic therapy in bite wounds to reduce such fatal complications

Cholangiocarcinoma in a broiler chicken

Twenty carcasses from a small flock of 5000 four-weeks old broiler chickens were submitted to a poultry disease diagnostic clinic in Tehran. At necropsy, 19 carcasses showed the typical lesions of colibacillosis such as pericarditis, prihepatitis and airsaculitis. One case did not show any gross lesion of colibacillosis or chronic respiratory disease [CRD] but the liver had an abnormal size containing a cystic part at the base of right lobe filled with a whitish fluid. In bacteriological culture, proteus was isolated from liver. Histopathological examination revealed multicentric bile duct hyperplasia and cholangiocarcinoma in the liver. Neoplastic cells effaced hepatocellular architecture. Histological examination of the neoplastic areas in the liver revealed cholangiocarcinoma [bile duct carcinoma]. This appears to be the first reported case of cholangiocarcinoma in birds in Iran

pathological and clinical study of pyothorax [thoracic empyema] in two young Persian cats

Pyothorax [thoracic empyema] in two females 4 and 3.5-4-month-old cats are reported. The cats were referred to Small Animal Hospital, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran, with the clinical signs and symptoms of acute fever, severe respiratory distress, anorexia and malaise. The clinical and radiological examinations pointed to an accumulation of fluid within the thoracic cavity. Because of the severity of the disease the animals died without obtaining any treatment. In post mortem examination, a bilateral pyothorax was diagnosed. Both Pasteurella multocida and Nocardia asteroides and Pasteurella multocida alone were isolated from case 2 and case 1, respectively

[ clinical implicatoin, history case report and ultrastructural study of Leydig cell tumor in canine testicle]

Objectives: clinical case report of leydig cell tumor in dog

Design: clinical case study

History: an eleven year old male German shepherd dog was reffered, small animal hospital of faculty of veterinary medicine because of Anorexia. Because of poor body condition, the animal was euthanised and submitted for necropsy examination. Based on the light and electronic microscopic observation, leydig cell tumor was confirmed

Clinical implications: occurrence of tumor in dog is without clinical findings, therefore maybe testicles are not necroptize at necropsy. Thus the rate of tumor, must probably be higher than it is reported

Results: histopathology and uttrastructural observations, confirmed the leydig cell tumor