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The objective of this work was to assess the potential effect of bone marrow mast cells (BMMCs) on burn wound healing in rats. We included 45 male rats into three groups of 15 animals each: CNTRL group: We treated the burn wounds with normal saline (0.1 ml). TRTMENT group: In this group, the burn wounds were treated with bone marrow mast cells (1× 106/ml). SSD (Positive control) group: In this group, the wounds were treated with silver sulfadiazine 1% ointment. Wound area reduction measurements, histopathological studies, and biochemical assessments levels showed significant differences between rats in TRTMENT group in comparison with other groups (p < 0.05). Accelerated repair of the wounds in TRTMENT group showed that local application of BMMCs could be taken into consideration in burn wound healing.

Effects of interaperitoneal administration of α-tocopherol acetate on ischemia-reperfusion injury in ovaries torsion and detorsion were studied using a cat ovary model. Twenty healthy female DSH cats ~3 kg were randomized into five experimental groups (n = 5): Group SHAM: The cats underwent only celiotomy. Group Ischemia: A 3-hour ischemia only. Group I/R: A 3-hour ischemia and a 3-hour reperfusion. Group I/ATA: A 3-hour ischemia only and 10 mg/kg intraperitoneal administration (IP) of α-tocopherol 2.5 hours after induction of ischemia. Group I/R/ATA: A 3-hour ischemia, 3-hour reperfusion, and 10 mg/kg IP of α-tocopherol 2.5 hours after induction of ischemia. Animals treated with ATA showed significantly ameliorated development of ischemia and reperfusion tissue injury compared to those of other groups (p < 0.05). The significantly higher values of SOD, tGSH, GPO, GSHRd, and GST were observed in I/R/ATA animals compared to those of other groups (p = 0.001). Damage indicators (NOS, MDA, MPO, and DNA damage level) were significantly lower in I/R/ATA animals compared to those of other groups (p = 0.001). Intraperitoneal administration of ATA could be helpful in minimizing ischemia-reperfusion injury in ovarian tissue exposed to ischemia.

A rat testis model was used to assess effects of polyethylene glycol (PEG) clotrimazole microparticles on ischemia-reperfusion injury. Forty-eight healthy male Wistar rats were included and randomized into six investigational groups (n = 8): Group SHAM: Merely laparotomy was implemented. Group ISCHEMIA: Merely a 3-hour interval ischemia was done. Group I/R: A 3-hour interval ischemia, three-hour reperfusion for left testis, and one-week reperfusion for right testis were done and 20 µL normal saline was administered intraperitoneally (IP) 30 min before termination of ischemia. Group I/R/PEG: The same as group I/R as well as 20 µl PEG (IP) 30 min before termination of ischemia. Group I/R/CLTMZLMP: The same as group I/R and 20 µL (10 mg/kg) of clotrimazole microparticles (IP) 30 min before termination of ischemia. Group I/R/PEG-CLTMZLMP: The same as group I/R and 20 µL PEG-based clotrimazole microparticles (IP) 30 min before termination of ischemia. Evaluations were based on analyses of biochemical assays. PEG-based clotrimazole microparticles improved enhanced antioxidant activity (p < 0.05). PEG-based clotrimazole microparticles could be helpful in minimizing ischemia-reperfusion injury in testicular tissue exposed to ischemia.

Abstract Objectives The aim of the present study was to examine donkey sperm quality after intratesticular injection of hypertonic mannitol (HM) and saline (HS). Methods Randomly assigned to five treatment groups were 15 adult male donkeys: (1) Control group (no treatment), (2) Surgery group (surgical castration for testosterone control), (3) NS group (normal saline intratesticular injection), (4) HS group (hypertonic saline), and (5) HM group. We injected 20 mL per testicle. We took 5 mL blood from all donkeys before injection. Castration was performed under general anesthesia 60 days later. Samples included blood and testicular tissue. Total motility (TM), progressive motility (PM), movementy features, DNA damage, morphology, viability, and plasma membrane functionality were evaluated. Hormone analyses, histomorphometric studies and oxidative stress indices including total antioxidant capacity (TAC), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), and NADP+/NADPH were evaluated. Apoptosis, pyroptosis-related Bax, Caspase-1, GSDMD, and Bcl-2 expression were also assessed. Results In HS and HM groups, testosterone, epididymal sperm count, motility, viability, and plasma membrane functionality dropped while sperm DNA damage increased. HS and HM groups had significantly lower histomorphometric parameters, TAC, GPx, SOD, GSH, and Bcl-2 gene expression. MDA, NADP+/NADPH, Bax, Caspase-1, and GSDMD gene expression were substantially higher in the HS and HM groups than in the control group. Conclusions Toxic effects of hypertonic saline and mannitol on reproductive parameters were seen following, hence, they might be considered as a good chemical sterilizing treatment in donkeys.

Ischemia/reperfusion can cause tissue damage and affect organ function. Ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) occurs in a variety of clinical manifestations such as stroke, trauma, and surgery. The present study investigated the role of pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) on the renal damage after IRI. Rats were assigned to four groups randomly (n = 8): Control group, Sham group, Renal IRI (45 minutes ischemia and subsequently 24 hours reperfusion) and renal IRI + PQQ (10 mg/kg /IP). Serum level of urea, creatinine, TNF-α and IL-6 were measured by a biochemical analyzer using commercial kits. In kidney tissue samples total antioxidant capacity (TAC), malondialdehyde (MDA), and myeloperoxidase (MPO) were measured using commercial kits. The results showed that IRI injury increased serum urea, creatinine levels, TNF-α and IL-6 along with MDA, MPO levels in the renal tissue, and decreased renal TAC levels. A decrease in serum urea, creatinine levels as well as MDA, MPO levels of the IR + PQQ group were observed in renal tissues. In addition, TAC levels in the kidney tissues of PQQ-treated animals were improved in comparison with the IRI group. In conclusion, pyrroloquinoline quinone treatment ameliorated renal IR injury by anti-oxidative stress and anti-inflammatory properties. Consequently, it could be promising as a potential therapeutic agent for renal ischemia-reperfusion injury.

Using a rat ovary model, protective effects of nano-methoxatin (NMXTN) were studied on ischemia-reperfusion injury. Following randomization of forty-eight healthy female Wistar rats ~250 g, the animals were subjected to eight experimental groups (n = 6): Group SHAM: Only laparotomy was performed. Group IS: Only a 3-hour ischemia was performed. Group IS/Oil: Only a 3-hour ischemia was performed and 50 µl soybean oil alone (Solvent of MXTN) was administered 30 min before cessation of ischemia. Group IS/REP: The procedure included a 3-hour ischemia followed by a 3-hour reperfusion and 50 µl soybean oil alone was administered 30 min before cessation of ischemia. Group IS/MXTN: The procedure included a 3-hour ischemia only and 50 µl (0.3 mmol/l/IP) of MXTN 30 min before cessation of ischemia. Group IS/NMXTN: The procedure included a 3-hour ischemia only and 50 µl (0. 3 mmol/l/IP) of NMXTN 30 min before cessation of ischemia. Group IS/REP/MXTN: The procedure included a 3-hour ischemia, a 3-hour reperfusion and 20 µl (0.3 mmol/l) of MXTN 30 min before cessation of ischemia. Group IS/REP/NMXTN: The procedure included a 3-hour ischemia, a 3-hour reperfusion and 20 µl (0.3 mmol/l) of NMXTN 30 min before cessation of ischemia. Significantly amended development of ischemia/reperfusion tissue injury was observed in animals treated with NMXTN compared to those of other groups (p = 0.001). Mean values of biochemical indices were significantly higher than those observed for other groups (p = 0.001). Significantly lower values of MDA were observed in IS/REP/NMXTN animals compared to those of other groups (p = 0.001). Where ovarian tissue is exposed to ischemia intraperitoneal administration of NMXTN could bear clinical benefits in diminishing ischemia-reperfusion injury.

Testicular torsion is a disorder that may cause infertility or subfertility in males. Rosmarinic acid (RA) is a natural polyphenol with potent antioxidant effects that its protective effects in ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury in the hepatic, renal, cerebral, and myocardial tissues was demonstrated. The aim of this study was to evaluate the protective effects of rosmarinic acid on testicular torsion/detorsion. 20 healthy male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups: sham-operated, torsion/detorsion, rosmarinic acid 50 mg/kg, and rosmarinic acid 70 mg/kg. testicular torsion was performed for two hours and detorsion was maintained for two hours. Administration of rosmarinic acid was performed 30 min before detorsion in treatment groups. Sperm parameters (sperm motility and sperm concentration), oxidative stress biomarkers (MDA, GPx, and CAT), and histopathological damage were examined in all groups. Results indicated that testicular I/R significantly reduced sperm motility and sperm concentration compared to the sham group, while treatment with RA significantly increased motility. Testicular I/R significantly increased MDA level and reduced GPx and CAT levels in the T/D group compared to the sham group, whereas treatment with RA reduced MDA level and increased GPx and CAT levels. Histopathological damages in the T/D group were significantly higher than those in the sham group. RA treatment reduced pathological damages. In conclusion, rosmarinic acid improved sperm parameters, increased antioxidant activity, and reduced histopathological damages. Therefore, it is recommended for attenuating testicular damages.

Meningocele is a congenital defect defined as a herniation of dura through the defect of cranial bone (cranium bifidum) with an accumulation of CSF in it. This anomaly has been described in calf, lamb, foal, piglet, dog, and cat. The etiology of meningocele is unknown but genetic and environmental factors may cause meningocele in lambs. A seven-day-old female Kurdish lamb with a congenital mass (8 cm in diameter) in the caudal part of its head was referred to the Veterinary Teaching Hospital of Urmia University. The lamb was lateral recumbent and the vital signs were in the normal range. Symptoms of pain and paddling were revealed while manipulating the mass. The fluid obtained from the mass was examined under a microscope and showed no signs of bacteria or inflammatory cells. Total serum protein was 8.9 g/dL and mean platelet volume (MPV) was 2.5 fl and other blood parameters were normal. In radiography, there was a bone defect in the skull and congenital cranium bifidum and meningocele were confirmed. The meningocele mass was removed with surgery and the skin was stitched. The clinical condition of the lamb did not improve after surgery. The lamb had died 5 days after surgery. This report presents the clinical findings and radiographs of cranium bifidum in a Kurdish lamb. The prognosis for surgical treatment is poor in cases where the animal has not been able to stand and suckle since birth.

Injuries to tendons are among the most common injuries in competition horses and represent a significant cause of morbidity and mortality. The present study aimed at an eight -week period ultrasonographic and biomechanical assessments of collagenase induced tendinitis in forelimb superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) in donkeys. Four healthy male donkeys were used. 1000 U collagenase type I from Clostridium histolyticum was injected in the center of the SDFT guided by ultrasonography. Ultrasonographical images of the SDFT were recorded prior to injury and 8 weeks after confirmation of tendinitis on a weekly basis. Images were digitized and lesion area to cross-sectional tendon area ratio (LA/TA ratios) was measured. At the end of the study period, the animals underwent tenectomy and tendon samples were evaluated biomechanically. Collagenase induced tendinitis was confirmed ultrasonographically 10 days post-injection. The animals showed swelling and response to palpation, however, no lameness was found in animals within the study period. There were significant differences between the first and the fifth weeks in operated limbs ultrasonographically (p

Case Description- A four-month-old female Holstein calf was presented to the Veterinary Teaching Hospital of Urmia University with a history of abnormal hairy growth on the right eye since birth. Clinical Findings- On general examination, the animal was alert. Body temperature, heart rate, respiratory rate, menace test, and pupillary light reflex were normal. On ophthalmic examination, a hairy mass was observed on the conjunctivae, third eyelid, sclera, and cornea of the right eye. Histopathological examination revealed the mass with three distinct areas of skin. It was diagnosed as an ocular dermoid cyst and surgical treatment was warranted. Treatment and Outcome- The mass was surgically excised to prevent damage to the anterior chamber of the eye. Ocular healing was satisfactory in a 4 week follow up. Clinical Relevance- This report described an ocular dermoid cyst in a four-month Holstein calf. There was just lacrimation, possibly due to irritation caused by the hairs. The ocular dermoid cyst could be excised surgically, and the prognosis is good.

Objective-The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of curcumin nanoparticles (CNP) on stress oxidative following experimental ischemia-reperfusion injury in the rat testes. Design-Experimental Study Animals- Seventy-seven healthy male Wistar rats Procedures-The animals weighing approximately 250 g were randomly assigned to four experimental groups (n = 18): Ischemia: torsion group (created by 720° rotation of testis on both sides for 2 h). Ischemia/Reperfusion (I/R): torsion for 2 h followed distortion, CNP 10: received 10 mg/kg IP administration of CNP 30 min before surgery then remaining testes were twisted and untwisted, CNP 20: received 20 mg/kg IP administration of CNP 30 min before surgery then remaining testicles were twisted and untwisted. Unilateral orchiectomy of left or right testicles was performed on days 0 and 12 with immediately sampling. Some twisted then untwisted testicles were remained and sampled 60 days after surgery. An additional group was considered (n=5) to be sampled without any operation as control group. The samples of testicular tissue homogenates were taken on Days 0, 12 and 60, and their liquid extracts were collected and assayed for Superoxide dismutase (SOD), Malondialdehyde (MDA) and Glutathione peroxidase (GPX). The effect of treatment and day of sampling on the variables was analyzed using Two-Way ANOVA. Results- The results of the study showed an ameliorated balance of GPX, SOD and MDA following testicular torsion in this study. The CNP treated animals (with both administered doses) showed significantly improved the balance of the enzymes compared to untreated animals (p Conclusion and clinical relevance- In conclusion, IP administration of CNP may be helpful in minimizing oxidative stress related enzymes following testicular ischemia-reperfusion in rat.

Objective: To determine the effects of bone marrow derived mast cells (BMMCs) on excisional and incisional wound healing in an animal model on lamb.Design- Experimental Study.Animals- Twelve healthy male lambsProcedures: Animals were randomized into four groups of three animals each. In CONTROL animals, the created wounds were left untreated receiving 100 μL PBS. In BMMC group, the created wounds were treated with 100 μL BMMCs (2× 106 cells/100 μL) aliquots, injected into margins of the wounds. In chitosan group the created wounds were dressed with chitosan biofilm. In BMMC/chitosan group the created wounds were treated with 100 μL BMMCs (2× 106 cells/100 μL) aliquots and dressed with chitosan biofilm. In excisional wound model, planimetric studies were carried out to determine wound area reduction. In incisional wound model, biomechanical studies were carried out to indirectly determine structural organization of the healing wound.Results: BMMC/chitosan group showed significantly earlier wound closure compared to other groups (p=0.001). The biomechanical findings indicated that the parameters were significantly improved in the BMMC/chitosan group compared to other experimental groups (p=0.001).Conclusion and Clinical Relevance: BMMCs local transplantation could be considered as a readily accessible source of cells that could improve wound healing.

Case Description- Olecranon fractures are frequently encountered in horses especially in foals. External trauma due to kicks or falls is the most common cause of the fracture. Treatment modalities of olecranon fractures including prolonged stall rest and surgical reconstruction of the different types of fractures have been proposed with different outcomes. Clinical findings-The horse displayed a 75-day duration of right forelimb lameness while galloping. According to the owner the horse had stumbled on his right forelimb and found 2 days in a non-weight bearing stance with a painful swelling felt on the right elbow on palpation.Treatment and Outcome-This article described nonsurgical management of an olecranon fracture in an adult horse subjected to 2 months complete stall rest. The horse regained soundness and performed his job normally. Clinical relevance- Information regarding the history, clinical signs, diagnosis, management and long-term prognosis were discussed and compared with the current literature. Uncomplicated olecranon fractures with late referral to the clinic may go unnoticed because of no lameness in physical examinations.

Objective- This study aimed at evaluation of histopathological findings of application of chitosan- nano selenium biodegradable film on full thickness excisional wound healing in rats.Design- Experimental Study Animals- Seventy-two male Wistar rats Procedures- Animals were randomized into six groups of 12 animals each. Group I: Animals with created wounds and no further treatment. Group II: Animals with wounds were dressed with chitosan film only. Group III: Animals with wounds were treated with sodium selenite. Group IV: Animals with wounds were treated with sodium selenium nanoparticles. Group V: Animals with wounds were dressed with chitosan/ sodium selenite film. Group VI: Animals with wounds were dressed with chitosan/nano selenium film.Results- There were significant differences in comparisons of group VI and other groups, particularly in terms of cellular infiltration and neovascularization. During the study period, scores for neovascularization was significantly higher in group VI rats than other groups (P Conclusion and Clinical Relevance- Chitosan/nano selenium biodegradable film resulted in significant improvement in histopathological indices in full-thickness wound healing. Thus, from this study it could be concluded that chitosan/nano selenium biodegradable film have a reproducible wound healing potential and hereby justifies its use in practice.

Objective- Breast cancer is one of the most serious problems in oncology. Alkaloids pyrrolizidine are widely found in nature and exhibited versatile biological activities. The aim of the present study was to assess anti-tumor activity of methyl 1,3-dioxo-1,1',2',3,5',6',7',7a'-octahydrospiro[indene-2,3'-pyrrolizidine]-2'-carboxylate (6) on 7,12 dimethylbenz(a) anthracene (DMBA)-induced mammary tumors in rat. Design- Experimental study. Animals- Twenty-one female Wistar ats Procedures- 7-Week-old female Wistar rats (180 g body weight) were randomized into three groups of seven animals each. DMBA-induced mammary tumors was achived using DMBA dissolved in 1ml of vehicle (0.5 ml of DMSO plus 0.5 ml of saline) and injected by subcutaneous injection beneath the mammary gland on either side. Tumor yield and size were stabilized after 90 days with the initiation of DMBA. Healthy intact animals (NC) were considered as a normal control feeding on pellets and tap water. In group DMBA, the tumor was induced by DMBA. In group DMBA/7d the animals with tumor received 100 µL 6 dissolved in DMSO (0.25 µM) solution intraperitoneally for one week. Synthesis of 6 was accomplished and the structure of new product was assigned by their 1H/13C NMR, IR, CH-COSY and mass spectral data as well as the elemental analysis. Results- The overall tumor analysis showed that 6 treatment significantly inhibited the breast tumor incidence, tumor multiplicity, and tumor size in the DMBA-initiated rat model. 6 treatment significantly inhibited the total volume of tumors per rat. Conclusion and Clinical Relevance-The findings of the present study showed that the 6 treatment was significantly effective in reduction of tumors versus the cancer controls.

Objective-Effect of local administration of laminin and fibronectin on nerve regeneration was assessed. Design- Experimental study. Animal- Sixty male Wistar rats. Procedures- The animals were divided into four experimental groups (n=15), randomly: In transected group left sciatic nerve was transected and stumps were fixed in adjacent muscle. In treatment group (CHIT/LF) the defect was bridged using a chitosan conduit filled with 10 µL mixture at a concentration of 1 mg/ml laminin and 1 mg/ml fibronectin in a 1:1 volumetric addition. In CHIT group the conduit was filled with phosphate-buffered saline. In normal control group sciatic nerve was exposed and manipulated. Each group was subdivided into three subgroups of five animals each and nerve fibers were studied in a 12-week period. Results- Behavioral, functional, gastrocnemius muscle mass findings and morphometric indices confirmed faster recovery of regenerated axons in CHIT/LF than in CHIT group (p Conclusion and Clinical Relevance- Laminin-fibronectin improved functional recovery and morphometric indices of sciatic nerve. They could be considered as an effective treatment for peripheral nerve repair in practice.

Objective- The objective was to assess local effect of brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) on functional recovery of peripheral nerve in rat sciatic nerve transection model. Design- Experimental study. Animals- Sixty male healthy white Wistar rats Procedures- The animalswere randomized into four experimental groups of 15 animals each: In sham-operated group (SHAM), sciatic nerve was exposed and manipulated. In transected group (TC), left sciatic nerve was transected and nerve cut ends were fixed in the adjacent muscle. In silicone graft group (SIL) a 10-mm defect was made and bridged using a silicone tube. The graft was filled with phosphated-buffer saline alone. In treatment group the silicone tube (SIL/BDNF) was filled with 10 microliter BDNF (100ng/kg BW). Each group was subdivided into three subgroups of five animals each and regenerated nerve fibers were studied at 4, 8 and 12 weeks post operation. Results- Behavioral testing, sciatic nerve functional study, gastrocnemius muscle mass and morphometric indices showed earlier regeneration of axons in SIL/BDNF than in SIL group (p < 0.05). Immunohistochemical study showed clearly more positive location of reactions to S-100 in SIL/BDNF than in SIL group. Conclusion and Clinical Relevance- When loaded in a silicone graft, BDNF improved functional recovery and morphometric indices of sciatic nerve. This finding supports the role of BDNFafter peripheral nerve repair and may have clinicalimplications for the surgical management of patientsafter nerve transection.

Abstract Background Rickettsial infections are often neglected and poorly recognized by physicians in many tropical and subtropical regions. Despite a number of recent reports describing rickettsial diseases in new locations and the discovery of new rickettsiae, medical science and research have largely neglected the diagnosis and antimicrobial treatment of rickettsial infections in subtropical and tropical areas; thus, much remains to be discovered. This study aimed to detect and characterize spotted fever group (SFG) rickettsiae in ixodid ticks infesting domestic ruminants in Khartoum State. Methods Polymerase chain reaction targeting both genes that encode for citrate synthase (gltA) and outer membrane protein (ompA) was performed for the presence of SFG rickettsia followed by sequence and phylogenetic analysis. Results Of the 202 ticks examined for the presence of SFG rickettsia, gltA gene was detected in 4 samples (2%). Furthermore, gltA‐positive samples were used to amplify the ompA gene, in which only two samples yielded positive results. Sequence and phylogenetic analysis of the positive samples revealed four different species of SFG rickettsiae: Rickettsia aeschlimannii, Rickettsia rhipicephali, Rickettsia massiliae and Rickettsia raoultii. Conclusions These results indicated the presence of SFG rickettsia in Sudanese ticks. This also indicates that humans have an opportunity to acquire these infections. It is important to keep in mind the need for careful consideration of rickettsial infections in individuals with a fever of unknown origin.

Despite promising results observed using silicone rubber chamber, no previous comprehensive work was performed on behavior of the conduit. Present study aimed at further functional, histomorphometrical and immunohistochemical assessment of nerve regeneration in the same animal along a 10-mm rat sciatic nerve gap. Fifty- four male Wistar rats were divided into three experimental groups (n = 18), randomly: Sham-operation (NC), Transected control (TC) and silicone conduit (SIL). In NC group after anesthesia left sciatic nerve was exposed through a gluteal muscle incision and after haemoestasis the muscle was sutured. In TC group left sciatic nerve was exposed the same way and transected proximal to the tibio-peroneal bifurcation leaving a 10-mm gap. In SIL group left sciatic nerve was transected the same way and proximal and distal stumps were each inserted into a silicone tube. Each group was subdivided into three subgroups of six animals each and were studied 4, 8, 12 weeks after surgery. Functional analysis showed significant improvement of nerve function in SIL group than in TC group (P < 0.05). Morphometric indices and immuohistochemistry indicated there were significant differences (P < 0.05) between SIL and TC groups 12 weeks after surgery. Silicone entubulation technique has offered the hope of providing a method for achieving the peripheral nerve regeneration in the least harmful way that is available, easily performed. Using silicone tubes in bridging of nerve defects could be promising because it is inert and does not induce extensive scarring or degeneration after implantation.

Rabbits are widely used as laboratory animals for experimental surgery. Anesthesia of rabbits may present complications unless the method is easy to apply and safe to use. In present study, effects of different dosages of vitamin C on thiopental sodium induced anesthesia in 25 male New Zealand white rabbits were studied. In the animals that had not received vitamin C treatment before thiopental sodium induced general anesthesia, return mean time of front limb pedal, corneal and ear pinch reflexes were 6.40 ± 1.67, 6.60 ± 2.96 and 8.00 ± 2.58 minutes, respectively. Pre-treatment of rabbits with 30 and 240 mg kg-1 (IV) of vitamin C followed by thiopental sodium 20 mg kg-1 (IV) resulted in significant (P < 0.05) increase in front limb pedal reflex return mean time to 13.00 ± 2.24 and ear pinch to 11.60 ± 4.16 minutes, respectively. There was also significant (P < 0.05) decrease in the heart rate following induction of anesthesia in the animals pre-treated with 30 and 90 mg kg-1 (IV) vitamin C and no change in the animals pre-treated with 240 mg kg-1 (IV) vitamin C. Serum analysis indicated a significant (P < 0.05) increase in blood glucose. These results suggest that premedication of rabbits with vitamin C despite potentiating of thiopental sodium anesthesia in rabbits is not dose dependent.

Objective- Comprehensive functional, histomorphometrical and immunohistochemical assessment of sciatic nerve regeneration through an inside-out vein graft in rat. Design- Experimental in vivo study. Animals- Fifty- four healthy male White Albino rats. Procedures- The rats were divided into three experimental groups (n=18), randomly: Sham-operation (NC), Transected control (TC) and Inside-out vein graft (IOVG). In NC group after anesthesia the left sciatic nerve was exposed through a gluteal muscle incision and after careful homeostasis the muscle was sutured. In TC group the left sciatic nerve was exposed the same way, transected proximal to the tibio-peroneal bifurcation leaving a 10 mm gap. In IOVG group the left sciatic nerve was transected the same way and proximal and distal stumps were each inserted into an inside-out vein graft. Each group was further subdivided into three subgroups of six animals each and were studied 4, 8, 12 weeks after surgery. Results- Functional analysis showed significant improvement of nerve function in IOVG than in TC group (P < 0.05). Morphometric indices and immuohistochemistry indicated that there were significant differences (P < 0.05) between IOVG and TC groups 12 weeks after surgery. Conclusion and Clinical Relevance- Inside-out vein graft technique has offered the hope of providing a biological method for achieving the peripheral nerve regeneration in the least harmful way that is available, easily performed and affordable. It also averts the need for foreign materials that are likely to provoke a foreign body reaction.

Abstract Background Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is a zoonotic parasite that can be transmitted from animals to humans, with felids acting as its definitive host. Thus, understanding the epidemiology of this parasite in animal populations is vital to controlling its transmission to humans as well as to other animal groups. Objectives This systematic review and meta‐analysis aims to summarise and analyse reports of T. gondii infection in animal species residing in the Arabian Peninsula. Methods : It was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA), with relevant studies being retrieved from MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Google Scholar and ScienceDirect. All articles published in Arabic or English languages between January 2000 and December 2020 were screened for eligibility. Random effects model was used to calculate the pooled prevalence of T. gondii infection in different animal populations which were found to harbour this infection. The critical appraisal tool for prevalence studies designed by the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) was used to assess the risk of bias in all included studies. Results A total of 15 studies were retrieved, reporting prevalence estimates from 4 countries in this region and in 13 animal species. Quantitative meta‐analysis estimated a pooled prevalence of 43% in felids [95% confidence interval (CI) = 23–64%, I2 index = 100%], 48% in sheep (95% CI = 27–70%, I2 = 99%) and 21% in camels (95% CI = 7–35%, I2 = 99%). Evidence of possible publication bias was found in both felids and sheep. Conclusions This meta‐analysis estimates a high prevalence of T. gondii infection in animal species which are of high economic and cultural importance to countries of this region. Hence, these findings provide valuable insight to public health authorities as well as economic and animal resources advisors in countries of the Arabian Peninsula.

Abstract Background Lumpy skin disease (LSD) is a highly infectious disease of cattle caused by a virus of the Poxviridae family, genus Capripoxvirus. The disease has great economic effects on the global cattle industry. In this study, an outbreak of LSD among cattle which occurred in Nahr Atbara and Halfa El Jadida locations in Butana area, Kassala State in November, 2020 is described. Methods Lumpy skin disease virus (LSDV) antibody and nucleic acid were detected in specimens (n = 50) using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Results The virus was isolated on the chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) of embryonated chicken eggs and identified by PCR. The number of animals at risk was 295 with a morbidity rate of 4.1% and a mortality rate of 2.4%. Conclusions LSDV was diagnosed for the first time in the Butana region, Kassala State, Eastern Sudan in 2020.

Abstract Background Bluetongue (BT) is a vector-borne viral disease of ruminant and camelid species which is transmitted by Culicoides spp. The causative agent of BT is bluetongue virus (BTV) that belongs to genus Orbivirus of the family Reoviridae. The clinical disease is seen mainly in sheep but mostly sub-clinical infections of BT are seen in cattle, goats and camelids. The clinical reaction of camels to infection is usually not apparent. The disease is notifiable to the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE), causing great economic losses due to decreased trade and high mortality and morbidity rates associated with bluetongue outbreaks. The objective of this study was to investigate the seroprevalence of BTV in camels in Kassala State, Eastern Sudan and to identify the potential risk factors associated with the infection. A cross sectional study using a structured questionnaire survey was conducted during 2015–2016. A total of 210 serum samples were collected randomly from camels from 8 localities of Kassala State. The serum samples were screened for the presence of BTV specific immunoglobulin (IgG) antibodies using a competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (cELISA). Results Seropositivity to BTV IgG was detected in 165 of 210 camels’ sera accounting for a prevalence of 78.6%. Potential risk factors to BTV infection were associated with sex (OR = 0.061, p-value = 0.001) and seasonal river as water source for drinking (OR = 32.257, p-value = 0.0108). Conclusions Sex and seasonal river as water source for drinking were considered as potential risk factors for seropositivity to BTV in camels. The high prevalence of BTV in camels in Kassala State, Eastern Sudan, necessitates further epidemiological studies of BTV infection in camels and other ruminant species to better be able to control BT disease in this region.

Abstract Background Reticuloendotheliosis virus (REV) is a gammaretrovirus that belongs to the family of Retroviridae. The infection can result in immunosuppression, runting syndrome, high mortality, acute reticular cell neoplasia or T‐ and/ or B‐cell lymphoma, in a variety of domestic and wild birds. The disease is widespread around the world. No related data have been reported in Sudan about the disease. The present study was conducted to determine the prevalence of REV antibodies and DNA in local and commercial breeds of chickens older than 20 weeks from June 2014 to February, 2017. Methods A total of 460 sera samples and 150 (50 liver and 100 spleen) tissue samples were collected from local and commercial breeds of chickens older than 20 weeks and screened for anti‐REV antibodies in four states of Sudan using a commercial REV antibody ELISA test kit (IDEXX). Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed to detect REV DNA in tissue samples in Khartoum State. Results The results revealed that the overall seroprevalence of REV was 74.6% among local and commercial chicken breeds, but in commercial it was 79.5% (190/239) and 69.2% in local breeds (153/221). One hundred and fifty tissue samples of chickens (50 liver, 100 spleen) were tested using PCR for detection of REV using primer sets of the conserved region in envelope glycoprotein (env) gene with a band length of 850 bp. Five out of 50 (10%) liver samples were RE provirus DNA positive detected by PCR, whereas 15 out of 100 (15%) spleen samples were PCR positive. Univariate analysis revealed there was a difference (p ≤ 0.05) between locality and breed of chickens and seropositivity to REV. Conclusions The prevalence of the disease was high in Sudan and more studies are needed to evaluate the epidemiology and pathogenesis of the virus.

Bluetongue (BT) is an infectious, noncontagious, vector-borne viral disease that affects wild and domestic ruminants transmitted by Culicoides spp. A cross-sectional study was carried out during the period 2016-2017 in Gadarif state. A total of 276 sera samples were collected from camels in six localities of Gadarif state, eastern Sudan, to investigate bluetongue virus (BTV) seroprevalence and associated risk factors of BTV infection including age, sex, breed, locality, and ecology of the region. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used for estimation of BTV seroprevalence rate. The overall BTV seroprevalence rate was 96.7% in the study area ranging from 93.5% to 100% in six screened localities with no significant differences. The findings revealed similar BTV seroprevalence rates in both males and females, but high rates were found in age group of less than one year and two to three years with estimated 100%. However, the lowest seroprevalence was found in the age group of five to four years with estimated BTV to be 92.3%. BTV seropositivity was not found to be statistically associated with examined different camel breeds which revealed 93%, 94.4%, 97.6%, and 97.8% seroprevalence in Bushari, Rashide, Arabi, and Anafi, breeds, respectively. Epidemiology of BTV assessment according to the ecology of the area showed high BTV seroprevalence in desert and savanna with estimated 100% and lower BTV seroprevalence in arid and rich savanna with estimated 94.8% and 95.7%, respectively. There was no significant association between BTV ELISA positivity and sex, breed, and ecology of the area.

Bluetongue (BT) is an infectious, noncontagious, vector-borne viral disease of wild and domestic ruminants. BTV is a member of the Orbivirus genus of the family Reoviridae. The present study aimed to investigate the seroprevalence of BTV in sheep and goats in Kassala State, Sudan. It also aimed to determine risk factors associated with BTV infection. The study was carried out by a structured questionnaire survey, and a total of 809 serum samples were collected from sheep (n = 459) and goats (n = 350) from 9 different localities in Kassala state. These samples were analyzed using a competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (cELISA) for the detection of BTV antibodies. The overall seroprevalence of BTV was 91.2% (738/809). In goats, the prevalence of BTV antibodies was comparatively higher (100%) than in sheep (84.5%). The prevalence differed between localities and was the highest in the center section of Kassala and Western Kassala (100%). Animals aged 6–11 months were highly infected (93.9%) compared to 1-year-old (85.5%). Caprine species was more likely to be infected (100%) than ovine (84.5%), and females were highly infected (92.8%) than males (85.5%). BTV infections were higher in the winter season (91.4%). Risk factors that showed significant associations with cELISA positivity included locality and sex (p≤0.003) and species and age (p≤0.000). Factors significantly associated with cELISA positivity in multivariate analysis were localities, species, age, and sex. BTV infection is prevalent in sheep and goat populations in Kassala state.

The Simbu serogroup is one of the serogroups that belong to the Orthobunyavirus genus of the family Peribunyaviridae. Simbu serogroup viruses are transmitted mainly by Culicoides biting midges. Meager information is available on Simbu serogroup virus infection in ruminants in Sudan. Therefore, in this study, serological surveillance of Simbu serogroup viruses in cattle in seven states in Sudan was conducted during the period from May, 2015, to March, 2016, to shed some light on the prevalence of this group of viruses in our country. Using a cross-sectional design, 184 cattle sera were collected and tested by a commercial SBV ELISA kit which enables the detection of antibodies against various Simbu serogroup viruses. The results showed an overall 86.4% prevalence of antibodies to Simbu serogroup viruses in cattle in Sudan. Univariate analysis showed a significant association (p=0.007) between ELISA seropositivity and states where samples were collected. This study suggests that Simbu serogroup virus infection is present in cattle in Sudan. Further epizootiological investigations on Simbu serogroup viruses infection and virus species involved are warranted.

A cross-sectional survey was conducted in 2005 in different cattle camps in Juba, Mangalla and Terekeka localities of Central Equatoria State, South Sudan. Serum samples were collected from 514 cattle of different age groups. Samples were analysed using an indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) with commercially available polymorphic immunodominant molecule (PIM) ELISA kits. The overall serological prevalence of Theileria parva was 70.8% (364/514). The highest rate of prevalence was observed in Mangalla (91.2%) and the lowest in Juba (61.8%), with Terekeka recording 71.8%. Regarding the age groups, older cattle (over four years of age) showed a significantly higher rate of prevalence (p>0.001) than calves (below one year of age). The implications of these results in the overall epidemiology of East Coast fever in South Sudan are discussed and possible recommendations for future implementation of disease control measures are outlined.