Echocardiographic findings in athletic horses with pulmonary regurgitation

Determining the clinical significance of cardiac murmurs is widely considered in equine practice. Pulmonary murmurs are commonly detected in athletic horses. Echocardiography plays a leading role in assessment of these murmurs. Echocardiographic evaluation of horses with pulmonary regurgitation and determining the importance of pulmonary valve murmurs. A total number of 450 athletic horses were examined with focus on cardiac and respiratory systems and 18 horses [8 horses with pulmonary murmur grades 3 and 4 and 10 normal horses] were included in echocardiographic examination. B-mode, M-mode, color flow Doppler and spectral Doppler were performed on two groups and the calculated indices were compared. No statistical difference was found between the values of the two groups [p<0.05]. No significant correlation was found between severity of murmurs grade and the severity of regurgitating jets. We found that with moderate grades of pulmonary regurgitation, no change in cardiac indices is present

[Evaluation of anti-Candida properties of cationic peptides derived from Rana ridibunda skin]

Background: Antimicrobial peptides with relative length [2-100 amino acids] and positive charge [pure charge [+9]-[+2]] are amphiphilic that isolated from a wide range of animals. Recently, these peptides have been known as a part of innate immune response. Nowadays, more than 500 antimicrobial peptides from animals have been reported

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the anti-Candida effects of cationic peptides derived from Rana ridibunda skin

Methods: In this study, using alcohol-acid technique, peptides of frog's skin were isolated and purified by Sep-Pack and Sephadex column. Then the anti-Candida activity [Fluconazole Resistance C. albicans, Fluconazole Sensitive C. albicans, and C. glabrata] of the peptides in different concentrations were evaluated

Results: Regarding to statistical analysis, peptides in concentration ranging from 25 to 100 micro g/ml had the most anti-Candida activities. In respect to different understudy Candida species, these agents had the less effect on the Fluconazole Resistance C. albicans [p<0.05]

Conclusions: The anti-Candida effects of cationic peptide obtained from frog skin are approved in this study

[Evaluation of the correlation between ration physically effective fiber and rumen pH in dairy cattle]

The current definition of subacute ruminal acidosis [SARA] is based on the pH of the ruminal fluid in dairy cattle and ration physically effective fiber could be used as a non-invasive method for prediction of ruminal pH. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the correlation between ration physically effective fiber, measured using old and modified Penn-state particle separator and ruminal pH. The physically effective fiber measured in the ration of 17 rational group [7 fresh and 10 mid lactation cow groups]. Ruminal fluid obtiained by rumenocentesis and SARA affected cows were detected. The physically effective fiber measured by modifed Penn-state particle separator had a correlation with mean ruminal pH of cows [r= 0.595, p= 0.012] and the ratio of subacute ruminal acidosis affected cows in rational groups [r= -0.533, p= 0.027]. The ration of SARA affected mid lactation groups had less physically effective fiber than non affected groups [p= 0.041]. According to our results, the physically effective fiber measured by modifed Penn-state particle separator had more correlation with ruminal pH in dairy cattle and can be used as a predictive index for ruminal pH

Radiographic measurements of front feet of the sound Akhal-Teke horses

The Akhal-Teke is an ancient horse originating from Asia where it was used by nomadic tribes and used as a warhorse. Lameness examinations require proper interpretation of clinical and radiographic findings. Therefore, understanding of normal radiographic findings of the foot is necessary. Although the radiographic appearance of the normal foot must be understood to recognize abnormalities, there are no studies examining the normal hoof and digital soft tissues in Akhal-Teke horses. The purpose of the study reported here was to determine a normal radiographic appearance and morpho-metry of the distal phalanx and its related soft tissue in mature Akhal-Teke racehorses without any clinical signs of lameness and foot problems. Radiography of the distal phalanx and associated soft-tissue structures of the front feet of 10 healthy pure Akhal-Teke horses were performed to determine normal radiographic appearance and morphometry. Lateromedial radiographic views of each front distal phalanx were used to measure important distances, angles and ratios of the hoof wall. All the measurements from lateromedial radiographs were multiplied by the magnification correction factor to gain the actual distances. Mean +/- SD thickness of the soft tissues dorsal to the middle aspect of distal phalanx was 18.3 +/- 1.22 mm. There was not any significant difference between left and right digits for any radiographic determination. This study introduced S-Founder and CF-Founder as important criteria in evaluating laminitis and sinking of P3

[ effects of age, sex and slaughtering on cellular distribution of bronchoalveolar lavage fluids in calves and cattle]

Based on our knowledge, there have been no studies about the effect of age, sex, lobe and slaughtering stress on cellular distribution of bronchoalveolar lavage fluids in calves and cattle in Iran. The main purpose of this study was to compare the cell distribution pattern of bronchial alveolar lavage fluids in calves and cattle in terms of age, sex, type of lung lobes and the stress of slaughtering. Bronchoalveolar lavage was performed in twelve calves at three different ages' groups [less than 2 months, 2-4 months and 4-6 months]. 250 milliliters sterile normal saline was infused through the tracheal tube and lavage was performed using syringe pressure. Post-mortem BAL was performed on twelve isolated lungs by infusing 150 milliliter normal saline. The lavage fluid was collected in sterile plastic tubes. The slide smears was prepared by pellet which were air-dried and stained with a Giemsa stain. Slides were evaluated cytologically. The data was analyzed by T-test, One Way ANOVA and post hoc Tukey test .Also, the Spearman correlation coefficient was used to assess the age and cell. Significant negative correlations were observed between cells such as epithelial cells, macrophages and mast cells, with a correlation coefficient of -0.430, - 0.059 and- 0.267- and age although the differences were not significant [p<0.01]. Statistically significant difference was observed in percentages of mast cells in males [1.48 +/- 1.25%] and females [zero percent] [p=0.04]. The differences were significant [p=0.019] between percentage of epithelial cells in the lungs of slaughtered cattle and lavaged lung of calves. The percentages of macrophages in slaughtered animals was significantly decreased [p=0.019] compared with live calves. Significant differences were not observed in cell density in different ages and sexes. But in the cell density in live animals [583 cells per microliter] was significantly higher than the lungs of slaughtered [237 cells per microliter] [p=0.03]. It seems that age and lobe do not affect pattern of lung immune cells. Sex and slaughtering stress, however may cause changes in immune cell type and density and lead to develop more respiratory disease

Serological and bacteriological study of leptospirosis in dairy herds and feedlot in Tehran suburbs

Leptospirosis is a worldwide zoonosis caused by Leptospira interrogans. Leptospirosis results in decreased milk production, abortion, stillbirth, infertility and mortality, which causes financial loss in the cattle industry. The aim of this research was to perform a serological and bacteriological study of leptospirosis in 6 industrial dairy herds and 3 feedlots with previous records of leptospirosis in Tehran suburbs in 2011-2012. For the purpose of this study, 408 blood samples from dairy cattle and 154 blood samples from feedlots were collected using sterile 10ml venoject vacutainers from tail vein. Two months later, 118 urine samples were collected from 20% of the two groups of serological negative and positive animals. All serum samples were serologically tested by microscopic agglutination test [MAT], a standard method for serological diagnosis of leptospirosis. The serum samples were tested for antibodies against five live antigens of Leptospira interrogans serovars: Pomona, Grippotyphosa, Hardjo, Icterohaemorrhagiae and Canicola. Urine samples were used for bacteriological isolation of Leptospira spp. Serological results showed that 228 [40.6%] of animals had a positive reaction against one or more serovars. The most prevalent Leptospira serovars was Pomona 118 [40.3%] and the least prevalent was Canicola 4 [1.4%]. The most prevalent titer was 1:100, and the highest titer was 1:1600. Also the most seropositive cases were observed in 3 to 4-year-old cows. Bacteriological results revealed that in 11 [9.3%] urine samples Leptospira spp. were isolated, all taken from one feedlot farm. According to the history taken from each farm, the main risk factors were the presence of rodents and low hygienic conditions of the farms. The results of this study revealed that cows could have a major role in maintaining Pomona, Grippotyphosa and Hardjo serovars; indeed, they are a potential zoonotic risk to slaughter house workers, meat inspectors, milkers and farmers

Antibiotic residues and aflatoxin M1 contamination in milk powder used in Tehran dairy factories, Iran

The presence of aflatoxin M1 [AFM1] and antibiotic residues in milk and milk products is a public health concern. Milk and milk powder have the potential for introducing AFM1 and antibiotic into human diet. In recent years, milk powder has been used on a large scale in dairy factories. Consequently, antibiotic residues and aflatoxin contamination control in these products has gained importance. The aim of this survey was to determine the level of beta-lactam and tetracycline antibiotic residues and also AFM1 contamination of milk powder used in Tehran dairy factories. During 12 months [September 2011 to September 2012], 240 samples of milk powder were collected from ten Tehran dairy factories. All samples were analyzed for the presence of AFM1 using ELISA technique. In addition, antibiotic residues were determined by BetaStar Combo test, a rapid assay for both beta-lactam and tetracycline antibiotics. The samples depicted positive results i.e. 30% and 17.5% for beta-lactam and tetracycline antibiotics, respectively. Also, AFM1 was found in 155 cases [64.6%] with an average concentration of 29.85 +/- 18.99 ng/ L. The results showed the milk powder used by dairy factories is safe in respect of AFM1 contamination and antibiotic residues in Tehran

[Effect of climatic factors on canine Lime borreliosis in Iranian Caspian sea littoral provinces]

Lyme borreliosis is a worldwide zoonotic disease caused by spirochetes of the Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato complex. There are no reports on this subject in dogs from Iran. Determining the serologic prevalence level of produced antibodies against Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato complex in three Caspian littoral provinces of Iran and studying the effect of climatic risk factors on it are the first aims of this study. During the period from July to September 2009 a seroepidemiological study was conducted on 273 dogs in three Caspian provinces of Guilan, Mazandaran and Golestan, Iran's known habitats of tick [Ixodes ricinus]. In order to study the correlation between infection distribution and climatic factors by geographic information system [GIS], geographic position of seronegative and seropositive dogs was overlaid on climatic maps of Guilan, Mazandaran and Golestan provinces. Multivariate regression model and correlation matrix analyses were used for statistical analysis. From 273 serum samples in the whole studied area, 22 [8.1%] showed antibodies against B. burgdorferi sensu lato complex. The seroprevalence of B. burgdorferi sensu lato in provinces of Guilan, Mazandaran and Golestan were 0.0% [0.91], 2.2% [2.91] and 22% [20.91], respectively. Mean annual temperature had positive and significant correlation with B. burgdorferi sensu lato complex seroprevalence in sampled dogs of the three north provinces [p<0.05]. Regarding the seroprevalence of Lyme borreliosis in dogs of three Caspian provinces of Iran, more attention must be paid to this disease, especially in Golestan province. This is the first study on the role of climatic factors in canine Lyme borreliosis in Iran

[Incidence rate of bovine and human tuberculosis in five regions of Iran during one decade [1999-2009]: an ecological study]

Mycobacterium bovis is responsible for 5-10% human tuberculosis all around the world. It especially infects children and people living in weak health-care regions. Currently, 25% of people with tuberculosis in Iran are afflicted by extrapulmonary tuberculosis [often related to M. bovis] that has exceeded standard amount. This investigation is an effort for studying human tuberculosis and bovine tuberculosis in Sistanobalouchestan province that has the maximum incidence rate of human tuberculosis in Iran. In this ecological study, human tuberculosis data were provided from Tuberculosis and Leprosy Office of Ministry of Health and Medical Education. The bovine tuberculosis data were received from Veterinary Organization of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Among all studied towns in Sistanobalouchestan province, "Zabol" had the highest amount of extrapulmonary tuberculosis and total human tuberculosis for each year and "Zahedan" had the highest incidence rate of bovine tuberculosis. Meanwhile, all types of tuberculosis have been decreased within this ten years period. This study has shown in all towns of Sistanobalouchestan province human tuberculosis has a high incidence rate. Bovine tuberculosis had an indeterminate way and in last 4 years, the incidence rate has not been reported. Further studies including microbiological experiments and detection of precise species of infecting bacteria are strongly recommended for upcoming researches

[Evaluation of the effect of Presynch Ovsynch program on reproductive performance of dairy cows with retained fetal membrane]

Retained fetal membrane decreases reproductive performance of dairy cows. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of Presynch Ovsynch protocol on reproductive performance of retained fetal membrane cows in Iranian dairy farm. This experiment accomplished on 244 Holstein dairy cows of a commercial dairy herd in Tehran. At least 24 hour after calving, the cows with or without retained fetal membrane were allocated into Presynch-Ovsynch and control groups, randomly. Commencement of injection in Presynch-Ovsynch group was between 23 and 27 days post calving, and cows were inseminated at 60-61 days after calving. In control group, cows were inseminated based on observation of estrus after voluntary waiting period. Data were analyzed using ANOVAand Chi-square. Days of first service were lower in synchronized cows than the control ones [61.5 vs. 105.5; p<0.05]. Days open was lower in Presynch Ovsynch treated cows with history of retained fetal membrane than untreated cows with history of retained fetal membrane [124.2 vs. 169; p=0.007]. Proportion of cows conceived by 200 days in milk was smaller in untreated cows with history of retained fetal membrane compared with cows in other groups [64% vs. 85.3%; p=0.007]. In conclusion, using Presynch-Ovsynch protocol and timed insemination improve fertility and reproductive performance in retained fetal membrane cows through decreasing days open

[Radiographical study of osteoarthrosis in dogs]

Degenerative joint disease [DJD] is a non-inflammatory and noninfectious disorder of movable joints characterized by degeneration of articular cartilage and new bone formation around the joints. There is no comprehensive report about the prevalence of DJD in dogs in Iran. The aim of this radiographical study was to evaluate the rate of DJD and the influencing factors such as age, sex, breed and location of the joint in dogs referred to the Radiology Division of the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Tehran. Atotal of 1896 canine cases were studied during a period of five years [1382-1386]. Two hundred and thirty two cases were x-rayed with each having the problem of joint disease. Radiographic evidence of DJD was found in 21.12% of the examined dogs. Degenerative joint disease of the vertebral column was diagnosed in 6.46% of all the cases. Degenerative changes of appendicular joints were found in 14.65% of the cases. The incidence of osteoarthrosis of the forelimbs was 47% among cases with DJD of appendicular joints. The rate of osteoarthrosis of hind limbs was 53%. The highest rate of DJD of appendicular joints was seen in the hip joints [38.23%]. This study demonstrated that radiographic changes of DJD were more discernible in large breed dogs [34.56%], as compared to small breeds [13.63%] [p

[Morphometrical and histometrical study on Syrian mice testis treated with pure phenol]

Phenol is a toxic organic chemical found in many foods and chemicals in our environment. Regarding to the wide use of phenol and its harmful effects, this study was done to determine the effect of pure phenol on morphometrical and histometrical structure of testis. 24 mature male Syrian mice divided to one control and 3 treatment groups that received pure phenol at 30, 75 and 100 mg/kg doses through gavage during 35 days. Finally, body, testis and tunica albuginea layer weight, gonadosomatic index [GSI] and length, width and thickness of the testis were measured. For histometrical assessment, the diameter of seminiferous tubules and the thickness of germinal layer were measured. Body weight in 75 and 100 mg/kg doses [2.02 +/- 4.09 and 2.33 +/- 3.35g, respectively] had significant decrease [p<0.05] comparing with control group [10.16 +/- 3.97g]. The difference in weight, length, width and thickness of testis between treated groups and control group was not significant, but the GSI in 30, 75 and 100 mg/kg doses [0.53 +/- 0.11, 0.53 +/- 0.07, 0.5 +/- 0.07%, respectively] had significant increase [p<0.05] comparing with control group [0.088 +/- 0.0083%]. Weight of tunica albuginea layer had increased significantly [p<0.05] only at dose of 75 mg/kg [0.01 +/- 0.006g] comparing with control group [0.002 +/- 0.002g]. There were significant differences [p<0.05] in diameter of seminiferous tubules in control group [100.42 +/- 12.41 micro m] comparing with 30 mg/kg [130.18 +/- 49.14 micro m] and 75 mg/kg doses [156.89 +/- 53.36 micro m] and thickness of germinal layer in control group [47.96 +/- 18.42 micro m] comparing with 30 mg/kg [37.18 +/- 14.44 micro m] and 75 mg/kg [30.13 +/- 50.04 micro m] doses. Pure phenol can cause changes in body weight, GSI and histometrical structure of testis

[Glanders, a new vision on an old biological weapon]

Death of one imported tiger from Russia in Tehran Eram zoological garden in winter of 2010 from Glanders opened the new series of discussion about this old zoonosis. After this incident, all the lions of the zoo were euthanized due to the probable contamination with glanders. In present systematic review manuscript, several scientific data banks and websites including ISI, Scopus, Medline, Embase, OIE, CDC, WHO, SID and MAGIRAN had been searched. Also all the books, journals and available congress proceedings in libraries were searched about this issue. As if many epidermis and also zoonotic and infectious diseases may be a biological threat, so having a good knowledge of these kinds of diseases is a necessity for all physicians, veterinarians and public health staffs especially whom they work in Armed Forces. Collaboration between Iran Veterinary Organization [IVO], Ministry of Health and Medical Education [MOHME] and Armed Forces is necessary for controlling the probable biological threat like glanders

[Bovine viral diarrhea in Qazvin province [Iran]: a seroprevalence study]

BVDV is one of the commonest infectious agents causing significant economical losses in the worldwide dairy cow industry. Serious control measures have been adopted against the infection in many countries, particularly in the developed ones. Investigation of the presence and prevalence of the infection is the first step, and an important one, for efficient control. This survey is aimed at these aspects of BVD in Qazvin Province. A total of 2,205 serum samples were gathered, almost randomly, from cows over 1-year old residing in 59 industrial dairy farms of Qazvin Province. The samples were taken from the cities of Abyek, Alborz and Buinzahra in the autumn of 2007 and the summer of 2008. A standard ELISA kit was applied for detecting antibodies against BVDV, using SPSS software [version 17] for corresponding analyses. The results indicated that 1,644 serum samples had positive reaction. Consequently, overall seroprevalence of infection in animals during the period surveyed was estimated at about 74.5%. Prevalence of the infection at herd level was 100%. Alborz with 83.2%, Abyek with 76.2%, and Buinzahra with 59.6% stood in order of seroprevalence. In the cases with an exact recorded history of parity and abortion, statistically significant relations were found between both variables and the test results [chi-square test with p=0.0005 and p=0.03, respectively]. This high seroprevalence of BVD infection in Qazvin Province, as in other parts of Iran, suggests that more and more emphasizes needs to be placed on the application of emergency measures for controlling the problem as soon as possible. In this regard, the detecting and elimination of PI calves must be considered as the first and essential action

[Evaluation of published articles in the journal of the faculty of veterinary medicine, University of Tehran between 2000 and 2009]

Designing and application of experimental studies in veterinary medicine have been given paid more attention in recent years. This review aimed to evaluate the methodological quality of all published articles in Journal of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran between 2000 and 2009.Evaluation studies with experimental designs were identified by reviewing titles and abstracts. Two reviewers coded reporting quality of articles. Of the 738 total published articles, 289 [39.16%] articles had experimental designs. Sample size was reported in 93.4% of studies, only 36% of studies explained their study design clearly and randomization was reported only in 33. 6%. The ethical approval was mentioned in only two percent. Seventy six percent studies had comparison group. The quality of reporting of experimental studies in the Journal of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine was not generally acceptable. Therefore it is felt that authors should consider more necessary criteria for standard publication in veterinary journals

Study of the prevalence and type of ophthalmic diseases among different breeds of horses in Tehran riding clubs

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and type of ophthalmic diseases among horse populations in the suburbian riding clubs of Tehran. Ophthalmologic examinations were performed in 901 horses and ocular lesions were diagnosed in 40 [4.4%] animals. In the 54 eyes of these horses that had ocular defects, 103 ocular abnormalities were detected. Of those horses affected, 65% showed abnormalities in one eye and 35% had abnormalities in both eyes. Various sequelae to ocular trauma and periodic ophthalmia were the most common and recognizable causes, which comprised 25% and 15% of horses with ocular defects, respectively

[Effect of PGF[2] alpha injection on conception rate of insemenated repeat breeder cows during summer warm condition]

It has been demonstrated that heat stress has a detrimental effect on conception rate of dairy cows, via early embryonic death. To reduce heat stress, providing shade, fan, appropriate diet and application of ovulation induction agents [GnRH and hCG] is recommended. Endogen PGF[2]alpha has positive effect on ovulation. Repeat Breader. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the role of PGF[2] alpha injection on reproductive performance of Repeat Breader [RB] dairy cows in heat stress condition at artificial insemination [AI]. This study was conducted in two large dairy farms in Tehran province during the summer 1386-87. All cows were inseminated [A M -PM] based on heat detection at 12 hours after observed standing heat. Mean temperature and humidity were recorded throughout the study. In this study 150 RB cows were randomly divided into three groups. Group A [n=50] received PGF[2] alpha simultaneously with AI, group B [n=50] received GnRH at the time of AI and group C [n=50] did not receive any treatment and served as control. Based on rectal palpation on 40-50 days of AI, 5 cows of group A, 9 of group B and 10 group C were pregnant. There were not any significant differences among groups [p>0.05]. The results revealed that simultaneous using of PGF[2]alpha or GnRH with AI has no beneficial effects on conception rate in RB cows

Comparative study of antibody titers produced against two BHK rabies vaccines in field trial experimental condition in dogs by RFFIT

Rabies is acutely fatal encephalitis caused by a neurotropic virus. This virus belongs to the family of Rhabdoviridae and genus of Lyssavirus. The virus is almost always transmitted to human through infected mammalian saliva. Rabies is inoculated to a wound by an infected animal bite. Since infection is established in the CNS, the outcome is almost always fatal. According to the outstanding role of vaccination against rabies in animals, as well as post-exposure treatment regimen in human, production of cell-cultured rabies vaccine is the most common interest of researchers. Two BHK-rabies vaccines, one made in the Pasteur Institute of Iran and two in Schering-Plough Animal Health of Madrid, Spain have been tested on 12 dogs divided into two groups. Sera were taken monthly over 18 months. To evaluate the titer of the rabies-neutralizing antibody, these sera were analyzed by the rapid fluorescence focus inhibition test [RFFIT] in the end of each month. Both study groups showed a sufficient immunogenic response without any significant difference at least one year after vaccination. With respect to the effective immunization of rabies vaccines, their annual injections would be sufficient. According to the results, at the end of the study [18th month] serum titer in only one dog [No.7] was less than protective level. Two animals in group one [No.2 and No. 5] also had serum titers less than protective level. Mean of post vaccination antibody titer were not different in either groups [P=0.35]

Prevalence of parasitic infections in the red fox [Vulpes vulpes] and golden Jackal [Canis aureus] in Iran

Red foxes and golden jackals are the two most abundant wild carnivores of Iran which have the ability to adopt a variety of habitats and human proximity. Despite this, very few investigations on their helminth and none on their external parasites infections have been carried out in Iran. Between 2003 and 2004, a total of 79 jackals and 37 foxes were collected from 3 different climatic zones of Iran and examined for helminth and ectoparasite infections. A number of parasites including: Mesocestoides lineatus, Taenia hydatigena, Dipylidium caninum, Diplopylidium nolleri, Ancylostoma caninum, Uncinaria stenocephala, Toxocara canis, Onicola canis, Dirofilaria immitis, Rhipicephalus sp., Ctenocephalides canis and Pulex irritans were common parasites between jackals and foxes, whereas Echinococcus granulosus, Spirocerca lupi, Rictularia affinis, Macracanthorhynchus hirudinaceus, Dermacentor sp. parasitized jackals and Jeuyoxiella pasquali, Ixodes ricinus, Haemaphysalis sp. were collected only from foxes. All ectoparasites, S. lupi and O. canis reported from jackals and foxes in this study represent new host and distribution records

Prevalence of subacute ruminal acidosis in some dairy herds of Khorasan Razavi province, northeast of Iran

To estimate the prevalence of subacute ruminal acidosis [SARA] in dairy cows, a total of 196 ruminal fluid samples were drawn by rumenocentesis from 10 dairy herds of Khorasan Razavi province, northeast of Iran. Two groups of 12 cows, early lactation and mid-lactation cows were sampled in each dairy herd and ruminal pH was determined immediately using a portable pH-meter. A total of 54 cows [27.6%] were found to be experiencing SARA. No significant differences were found between SARA affected and non-affected cows in ruminal contractions, faecal quality and fat and protein components of milk