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Survey on Dermatological Disorders of Dogs during 2020–2022 in Rabat, Morocco
No full textDermatology is an important specialty in veterinary medicine, focusing on the skin and its appendages. Therefore, the present study highlighted the percentage of skin disorders, as well as their associated risk factors, from cases received at the Parasitology-Dermatology clinic of the Hassan II Institute of Agronomy and Veterinary Medicine (IAV Hassan II), Rabat, Morocco for two years. A total of 1561 dogs (1450 dogs were in 28 different pure breeds and 111 dogs were mongrels, 805 males, and 756 females, with an average age of 6.5 years old) were presented at the University Veterinary Teaching Hospital (UVTH) of the IAV Hassan II from the end of October 2020 to the end of May 2022 (including vaccinations) and 125 dogs were assessed and 161 skin diseases were found (a few dogs had more than one skin disease). Dermatological examinations represented an average of 8.00 (125/1561) of all canine cases received at the University Veterinary Teaching Hospital. The most common clinical signs were pruritus, alopecia, erythema, onychogryphosis, and visible ectoparasites. Parasitic dermatoses were the most frequent, representing 44.10 of all dermatological cases, followed by allergic dermatoses (25.47) and fungal skin infections (19.25). Bacterial skin infections and dermatological manifestations of endocrine disorders were infrequent, representing 8.70 and 2.48, respectively of all observed cases. Risk factors contributing to the occurrence of canine skin disorders included age and lifestyle for sarcoptic mange. An apparent predilection for the living environment was observed in the case of canine leishmaniosis, and an apparent predilection for sex regarding otodectic mange was also demonstrated. Similar results were found for the living environment and lifestyle concerning canine atopic dermatitis. Data reported herein fill gaps in knowledge of skin disorders and their associated risk factors in dogs in Morocco, demonstrating the dominance of skin diseases of zoonotic interest, including flea bite allergy dermatitis (FBAD), dermatophytosis, and canine leishmaniosis. © The Author(s) 202
Effects of Two Types of Estrogen on the Follicular Wave for in Vivo Oocyte Collection in Brown Swiss Cows
No full textThe manipulation of follicular waves through hormonal treatments, such as estrogen administration, plays a crucial role in optimizing in-vivo oocyte collection for assisted reproductive technologies. The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of two specific types of estrogen on follicular wave dynamics and their impact on in-vivo oocyte collection in Brown Swiss cows. Fourteen cows, in their first lactation, weighing approximately 340 kg were randomly assigned to one of two treatments including T1 (estradiol cypionate) and T2 (estradiol benzoate). Both treatments were administered at 1.2 mg of estrogen, at day 0 of the experiment. All Brown Swiss cows were provided with a diet entirely consisting of alfalfa grazing. On day 7, follicular wave dynamics were assessed using a DP-50 vet ultrasound device equipped with a 7.5 MHz transducer for transvaginal follicular aspiration guidance. Follicle counts were categorized into three size ranges including 2-4 mm (small), 4-8 mm (medium), and greater than 8 mm (large). Additionally, the quantity and quality (viable oocytes) of the collected oocytes were evaluated by the Ovum Pick Up (OPU) team for oocyte viability on day 7. The study assessed the follicular dynamics (number of follicles) and efficiency of oocyte collection (viable oocytes) in cows treated with Estradiol Cypionate (T1) and Estradiol Benzoate (T2). The average number of small, medium-sized, and large follicles size were 6.048 ± 6.037, 3.16 ± 2.01, and 0.53 ± 0.67 respectively. The total number of follicles was 9.59 ± 3.56. The mean number of viable oocytes recovered was 3.024 ± 1.66, while the mean number of non-viable oocytes was 1.47 ± 1.01. The results indicated no significant differences between treatments in the size of small, medium, and large follicles, nor in the total number of follicles and viable oocytes recovered. However, a significant difference was observed in the number of non-viable oocytes recovered, with a higher mean in T2 (1.86) compared to T1 (1.09). The results indicated an adequate follicular response and viable oocyte recovery in both treatment groups (estradiol cypionate and estradiol benzoate). However, variations in oocyte viability were observed, with estradiol cypionate showing a slight advantage. © 2024 © The Author(s) 202
Identification of Genetic Diversity of Taro White Cattle Using Microsatellite DNA Markers
No full textTaro white cattle have a small population found in Taro Village, Tegalalang, and Gianyar, Bali, which must be protected as one of the most valuable biological resources for the Hindu community in Bali. White cattle require conservation efforts, with morphometric characterization and genetics providing the first phases of an animal conservation program. The purpose of this study was to identify the genetic diversity of Taro white cattle based on allele frequency, heterozygosity, and fixation index (FIT) using different microsatellite DNA loci so that it can be used as a study and reference in determining policies for the conservation of Taro white cattle in Indonesia, particularly in Bali. This cross-sectional observational study utilized ETH 185, INRA 035, and INRA 037 microsatellite DNA markers. Polymerase chain reaction amplified a total of 22 Taro white cattle blood samples with an average of 4.33 alleles; the average observed heterozygosity and expected heterozygosity were 0.288 and 0.637, respectively, with an average fixation index value of 0.55. In conclusion, there is a significant deviation from the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium with the likelihood of inbreeding, as indicated by the Hardy-Weinberg balance. The microsatellite loci used in this study can be further used to evaluate the genetic diversity of Taro white cattle
Evaluation of nutritional composition of major available feed resources for backyard sheep fattening in southern Ethiopia
No full textThe study was conducted in the Bule district of Gedeo zone in southern Ethiopia to assess the available feed resources for sheep fattening and their chemical composition in backyard sheep fattening operations. A reconnaissance study identified the main sources of feed, followed by a multi-stage sampling procedure to select kebeles and households involved in sheep fattening. Six kebeles were specifically selected based on sheep population, experienced fatteners and accessibility. A total of 126 households were randomly selected for the study. The main food sources included natural pasture, stubble pasture, forage, bamboo leaves, enset (Ensete ventricosum), crop residues, desho grass (Pennisetum pedicellatum), tree alfalfa, kitchen residues and mill products. Feed samples were taken for laboratory analysis, and the average values for dry matter (88.3), ash (10.71), organic matter (77.25), crude protein (11.21), neutral detergent fibers (60.2), and acidic detergent fibers yielded (39.42) and acidic detergent lignin (10.22). Tree alfalfa (26.06), mill products (16.11), green fodder (13.88), and bamboo leaf (12.45) had the highest crude protein content. Bamboo leaves (21.15), forage (15.17), and stubble pasture (12.36) provided suitable ash levels for mineral intake. However, concerns arise regarding fiber content in crop residues, grazing practices, and bamboo leaf quality, affecting feed intake, digestibility, and absorption. Promising feeds such as alfalfa, mill products, and forage boost high protein content, but better fiber management is essential for feeds with excessive fiber. Tailored feeding strategies, enhanced feed conversion, and thorough training for sheep fatteners are pivotal to address these challenges
Fixed-Bed Adsorption Dynamics of Total Organic Carbon from Gamodubu Landfill Leachate Using Biochar Derived From Gaborone Wastewater Treatment Plant Sewage Sludge
No full textIn developing countries like Botswana, addressing leachate treatment presents considerable difficulties, especially regarding the management of sewage sludge (SS). This research evaluated the capacity of activated biochar, derived from sewage sludge, to adsorb Total Organic Carbon (TOC). Biochar was produced under conditions with limited oxygen, by placing approximately 50 grams of dried sewage sludge in sealed porcelain crucibles and heating them at a rate of 10°C per minute to 400°C for four hours. The resulting biochar (WWSBC400) was then stored in plastic bags in a dry environment. The pyrolysis yield was calculated as the ratio of the weight of the produced biochar to the initial weight of the dry sewage sludge. The study identified the maximum adsorption capacities (qm) for TOC in landfill leachate solutions, highlighting surface precipitation as a key adsorption mechanism for WWSBC400. Additionally, the removal of carbon ions using biochar produced from sludge at Gaborone's wastewater treatment facility was investigated. Continuous adsorption columns were utilized to demonstrate TOC solution adsorption, with performance evaluated in a fixed-bed column through model simulation. The Thomas model was used to compare experimental kinetic data, with the experimental data generally aligning well with the Thomas model, achieving a correlation coefficient (R²) of 0.9114 for the first round of activated biochar removal. The adsorption capacity of the biochar was recorded at 389.265 mg/g after 14.5 hours of column adsorption, with regeneration studies showing varying adsorption capacities of 742.82 mg/g, 875.47 mg/g, 682.13 mg/g, and 735.21 mg/g for successive rounds. Surface precipitation was found to be a vital process for carbon adsorption onto WWSBC400. In conclusion, using sewage sludge biochar for co-contaminated soil shows potential for heavy metal immobilization, presenting a viable option for environmental rehabilitation
Prediction of Compressive Strength and Design Parameters of C30/37, C35/45 and C40/50 Concrete Classes by ANN
No full textThe quality of concrete used in the construction sector is increasing day by day with ready-mixed concrete production. The quality of concrete is directly related to its compressive strength and the related tests are labor-intensive and time-consuming. Therefore, different artificial intelligence-based models are used to predict the compressive strength of concrete. In this study, compressive strength and design parameters of concrete classes C30/37, C35/45 and C40/50 were predicted by ANN model. A total of 240 compressive strength results obtained from concretes produced in a ready-mixed concrete plant for the construction of columns, beams, decks and stairs. 70% of these data were used for training and remaining 30% of data were reserved for testing. The prediction accuracy of the ANN model was evaluated by R2, MAPE and RMSE statistical methods. According to results, the compressive strengths of concrete classes C30/37, C35/45 and C40/50 could be predicted with errors of -0.70%, 1.25% and 0.17% for 7 days and 0.99%, 0.03% and -0.69% for 28 days, respectively. Depending on the design parameters, it was found that prediction performance could be made with almost 100% accuracy for all concretes except high-performance superplasticizer admixture. As a result, it was concluded that ‘very good’ or ‘high accuracy’ predictions can be made with ANN models
Condition Assessment of Metsimotlhabe River Bridge using Non-Destructive Testing and Non-Contact Procedure
No full textA process of in-service infrastructure health assessment using non-destructive testing and evaluation (NDT&E) techniques is crucial for prompt, accurate and quantitative identification of damage in civil infrastructure. The aim of this study was to assess the structural performance of Metsimotlhabe River Bridge through NDT&E and load testing techniques. Schmidt rebound hammer was utilized to determine the compressive strength of the bridge, total station was used to monitor the profile of the bridge girder level for differential deformation, and a non-contact global positioning system (GPS) technology was employed to measure the dynamic displacement of the bridge under random operational traffic loading conditions. Finally, the dynamic behavior of the bridge was evaluated based on displacement, strain and acceleration response data. There was a perfect linear correlation between rebound number and compressive strength of concrete from different contact surfaces. The compressive strength of the bridge superstructure from random sampling was 39.48 N/mm2 (CoV = 19.22%). The normal distribution of the bridge levels at the northern and southern levels depicted differential displacement that indicated torsional deformation. The displacement of the bridge girder was simultaneously monitored at the supports, quarter-spans and mid-span using GPS technology. The results showed functional elastomeric bearings at the supports, perfect correlation at the quarter spans and maximum dynamic flexural displacement of 21.5 mm at the mid-span. The modal decomposition acceleration and displacement response data produced the first three flexural modal frequencies of 6.44 Hz, 9.10 Hz and 19.56 Hz. It can be concluded that while the bridge was in good condition in terms of its compressive strength, elastomeric bearings and fibre strain, the differential displacement at the northern-southern edges of the bridge was a clear indication of torsional deformation of the superstructure
Pathological and Economic Effects of Bovine Skin Tumors on Cattle Production in Ethiopia: A Review
No full textA tumor is an abnormal mass of tissue that exceeds normal boundaries, resulting from uncoordinated and uncontrolled cell proliferation. Tumors can affect various parts of cattle animals, including the skin, bones, glands, and visceral organs. The present study aimed to explore the pathology of bovine skin tumors and their health and economic impacts on cattle. Skin tumors are the most frequently diagnosed neoplastic disorders in bovine species. The most common skin tumors in bovine include bovine papilloma, squamous cell carcinoma, and bovine lymphosarcoma. These tumors pose significant health challenges and have a negative economic impact on cattle production and its byproducts. Clinical features of skin tumors often include hyperkeratosis, acanthosis, elongated rete pegs, large nodular structures, exophytic and cauliflower-like lesions, and friable lesions. Melanomas, another type of proliferative skin tumor, are characterized by spindle to round cell shapes containing abundant black pigment. More than 90% of skin tumors are linked to prolonged exposure to ultraviolet radiation. Diagnosing a skin tumor in cattle typically involves skin biopsy and fine needle aspiration cytology. Histologically, skin tumor cells exhibit an increased nuclear-to-cytoplasmic ratio, cellular and nuclear pleomorphism, and a discohesive arrangement of cells. In addition to their health implications, skin tumors in cattle result in significant economic losses due to reduced productivity, decreased reproduction rates, carcass condemnation, and the downgrading of skins and hides. Common treatment options for skin tumors include chemotherapy, radiation, and surgical removal. Given that skin tumors are an economically significant disease in Ethiopia, they require increased attention from researchers and the centers for control and prevention. Early diagnosis and effective management of these tumors are crucial issues that must be addressed
Effects of Layer Breeder Age and Early Hypoxic Stimulation (ED 7–9) of the Chorioallantois Membrane on Eggshell Decalcification, Neovascularization of Heart Tissue, Mineralization and Morphometrics of Hatchlings
No full textOxygen concentration (O2) during incubation is crucial for embryo development, and hypoxic conditions can influence phenotypic plasticity in poultry. Although low O2 (hypoxia) can be detrimental, it may also promote adaptive responses. Breeder age, a known genetic determinant of egg quality and embryonic development, is likely to interact with O2 levels during incubation, however, this relationship remains understudied in layer breeders. This study examined how layer breeder age and reduced oxygen (O2) levels during early embryonic development affect various factors, including eggshell decalcification (Dcal-SHL), chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) weight, heart tissue vascularization, egg weight loss (EWL), eggshell temperature (EST), and calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (P) content in bone and blood and tibia and femur morphometrics. A total of 900 eggs from 33 and 50-week-old ISA brown layer breeders were incubated in a 2x3 factorial design with O2 levels of 15, 17 (hypoxic), and 21 (control). Oxygen was reduced for 1hr/day from embryonic days (ED) 7–9 using air-N2 flushing. Results showed increased CAM weight and heart tissue vascularization under hypoxia, especially in older breeders (50 weeks). Hypoxic conditions (15 and 17 O2) reduced embryo weight loss and eggshell temperature compared to controls during the post-exposure phase (ED 15–18). There was an interaction between breeder age and O2 levels on mineral absorption, with reduced oxygen leading to lower Ca and P absorption in bones, higher eggshell P retention, and decreased tibia morphometrics (weight, length, diameter, and seedor index) in hatchlings. Additionally, CAM weight correlated negatively with Dcal-SHL Ca at 15 O2. The study concluded that reduced oxygen during early embryonic development increases CAM weight, heart neovascularization, and Ca mobilization from eggshell to blood. However, older flocks exhibited reduced Ca transfer to bones, likely due to homeostatic imbalance. Open Access: This article is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License, which permits use, sharing, adaptation, distribution and reproduction in any medium or format, as long as you give appropriate credit to the original author(s) and the source, provide a link to the Creative Commons licence, and indicate if changes were made. The images or other third party material in this article are included in the article’s Creative Commons licence, unless indicated otherwise in a credit line to the material. If material is not included in the article’s Creative Commons licence and your intended use is not permitted by statutory regulation or exceeds the permitted use, you will need to obtain permission directly from the copyright holder. To view a copy of this licence, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/. © The Author(s) 202
Effects of Breed on the Morphometric Parameters of Erythrocytes in Horses
No full textVarious factors have a distinct impact on the quantity and dimensions of red blood cells across diverse animal species. These factors encompass age, sex, elevation, time of year, and lineage. The present study aimed to evaluate the influence of breed on the morphometric parameters of red blood cells in horses. To examine the impact of various horse breeds on the diameter, circumference, and surface area of red blood cells, blood samples were obtained from a total of 90 healthy horses. These horses belonged to three different breeds, including Arab Thoroughbred, English Thoroughbred, and Barbe. Each breed consisted of 30 individuals, with an equal distribution of males and females. The collected blood specimens were then divided into two separate batches for further analysis. The age range of all horses included in the study was between 5 and 12 years old. Smears were made and stained using the May-Grünwald Giemsa technique. The morphometric measurements were performed while using the OPTIKATM Vision Pro special software. The obtained results showed that there were no significant differences in the red blood cell diameters across different horse breeds. However, this factor appears to influence significantly both the circumference and surface area of erythrocytes. Specifically, the circumference and surface of Barbe red blood cells were highly smaller than both Arabian and English purebred horses. The present study demonstrated that the circumference and surface of red blood cells appear to be more indicative and representative in detecting variations in the erythrocyte morphometry between different horse breeds. Open Access: This article is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License, which permits use, sharing, adaptation, distribution and reproduction in any medium or format, as long as you give appropriate credit to the original author(s) and the source, provide a link to the Creative Commons licence, and indicate if changes were made. The images or other third party material in this article are included in the article’s Creative Commons licence, unless indicated otherwise in a credit line to the material. If material is not included in the article’s Creative Commons licence and your intended use is not permitted by statutory regulation or exceeds the permitted use, you will need to obtain permission directly from the copyright holder. To view a copy of this licence, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/. © The Author(s) 202