Baladi Goats Research Articles

Evaluation of the curative effect of Balanites aegyptiaca fruits ethanolic extract on Haemonchosis experimentally induced in Egyptian Baladi goats: phytoanalytical, parasitological and hematological studies.

This study aimed to screen phytochemical components and antioxidant activity of Balanites aegyptiaca ethanolic extract (BAF-EE) as well as to evaluate its curative effect on experimentally induced haemonchosis in goats. Phytochemical constitutes of BAF-EE were screened and identified using Gas Chromatography-mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis and antioxidant effect was determined. Infective third larval stage (L3) of Haemonchus contortus (H. contortus) were obtained by culturing feces of goat harboring monospecific infection of the parasite. Twelve male goats were randomly divided into four groups (n = 3) as: G1 (infected-untreated) which served as control positive, G2 (infected-BAF-EE treated), G3 (infected-albendazole treated) and G4 (uninfected-BAF-EE treated) that served as control negative. Experimental infection was conducted with a single oral dose of 10,000 L3 at 0-time, whereas treatment with BAF-EE and albendazole were given at a single oral dose of 9g and 5mg/kg BW, respectively in the 5th week post infection (PI). Egg count per gram of feces (EPG) was conducted once a week and blood samples were drawn on zero time, 3rd week PI and then biweekly for 9weeks, for conduction of hemogram. At the end of the experiment, all animals were slaughtered and adult worms in their abomasa were counted. GC-MS analysis confirmed 28 compounds in the extract which revealed presence of saponins, flavonoids, terpenoids, phenolics and alkaloids, and exhibited in vitro antioxidant activity. Clinical signs observed on the infected animals were signs of anemia, which were gradually disappeared post treatment (PT). A maximum reduction in EPG (88.10%) and worm burden (94.66%) was recorded on 4th week PT due to efficacy of BAF-EE in contrast to 98.29% and 96.95% efficacy of albendazole. All infected groups showed a significant decrease in hemoglobin (Hb) and packed cell volume (PCV) and presence of microcytic hypochromic anemia compared with G4. Goats treated with B. aegyptiaca and albendazole, exhibited significant increase in Hb and PCV 2weeks PT and anemia changed to be normocytic hypochromic or microcytic normochromic in G2 and G3, respectively. Total white blood cells (WBCs) were elevated significantly in all infected groups which attributed to increase in lymphocytes, monocytes and eosinophils on expense of neutrophils. After treatments, WBCs and previously mentioned cells tended to decease. This study demonstrated that BAF-EE has anthelmintic effect against H. contortus and can improve hemogram and health condition of infected goats.

Normal Radiographic, Computed Tomography and Ultrasonographic Anatomy of the Carpal Region in Baladi Goats (Capra Hircus)

Normal Radiographic, Computed Tomography and Ultrasonographic Anatomy of the Carpal Region in Baladi Goats (Capra Hircus)

Effect of feeding Moringa oleifera forage on productive performance of growing goat kids.

SummaryA five-months experiment was carried out to investigate the effect of partial replacement of rice straw in the ration of goat kids by Moringa oleifera (MO) forage on feed intake, digestibility, rumen fermentation, some blood parameters and productive performance of growing goat kids. Twenty-one growing Baladi goat kids averaged six months age and 11.20 kg live body weight (LBW) were divided into three similar groups and randomly assigned to the following dietary treatments; control group (R1) which fed 60% CFM + 40% RS, while group (R2) fed 60% CFM + 20% RS + 20% MO and R3 fed 50% CFM + 25% RS + 25% MO. The daily feed allowance of goat kids was calculated according to NRC (2007) and adjusted biweekly. The experimental rations offered twice a day at 8 am and 2 pm in equal portions up to the end of the experimental period. Body weight, feed intake and feed conversion were determined over the whole trial. At the end of the feeding trial, three digestibility trials were conducted on twelve goat kids. Results indicated that the digestibility of most nutrients of the two tested rations were significantly higher than those of control one. The highest values were recorded with 20% MO-ration (R2). The feeding values as TDN and DCP followed a similar trend to those of nutrients digestibility among dietary treatments. Growth performance in respect of final weight, total weight gain, daily gain and feed conversion efficiency were significantly superior with kids fed R2 and R3 rations compared with control ration (R1). The best values occurred with R2. Also, kids fed 20 or 25% MO-rations had significantly higher return and economic efficiency than those fed control ration (R1). Rumen function parameters and blood metabolites profile have been also investigated throughout this study.Accordingly, we could recommend for feeding the growing goat kids, supplementing ration with Moringa oleifera forage especially those containing poor quality roughage like rice straw, since it improve daily gain, digestibility. feed efficiency, and economic efficiency. The recommended replacement rate with Moringa is for 20 or 25% of rice straw.

Electrocardiographic, endocrine and biochemical stress indices of electroejaculated Egyptian Baladi goat bucks

This study aimed to evaluate the stress response to electroejaculation (EE) through electrocardiogram (ECG) indices alongside hormonal and biochemical indices. Lead II base-apex ECG was recorded at rest (control, T0) and immediately after EE (T1), repeated in four consecutive weeks. The collected ejaculates were evaluated for standard semen characteristics (ejaculate volume, mass motility, individual motility, sperm cell concentration and total sperm count per ejaculate). Blood samples were collected at rest (T0), 10 (T2) and 120 min (T3) after EE for determination of biochemical and hormonal stress indices. EE induced sinus tachycardia with simultaneous marked increase in P waves amplitude and decrease in all waves and intervals durations (except for QRS complex and PR interval). Similarly, significant variation between the first and the last EE sessions were observed in heart rate (HR) indices (mean RR, mean, maximum and minimum HR), some wave amplitudes and segment durations. While the stress index significantly increased in the 3rd week only. This was associated with significant short term increases in serum level of cortisol and progesterone (P4) with significant decrease of glucose and globulins at T2. Furthermore, at T3 there was significant increase in cardiac troponin I (CTnI) concentration, while free triiodothyronine (FT3), potassium (K+), calcium (Ca2+) and glucose levels decreased significantly. There were significant increases between the first and the last EE sessions in cortisol, FT3 and significant decrease in Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) concentrations. On contrary, there were no significant changes in time related to EE and weekly repetitions in the corrected QT interval (QTc), root mean square of sum of squares of normal to normal difference (RMSSD), standard deviation of the normal to normal (SDNN) vasovagal tonus index (VVTI) and semen characteristics. In conclusion, although repeated EE causes acute stress response which increases with repetition, the response appeared transient and not deleterious to the cardiac activity and semen characteristics evidenced by non-persistent significant increases in CTnI and absence of significant changes in the standard semen characteristics of the bucks. Additionally, ECG might be beneficial in assessing the welfare of electroejaculated bucks. Further assessment of heart rate variability (HRV) indices of bucks after EE using frequency and non-linear indices in a larger animal population is recommended.

الصفات الشكلية والمظهرية للماعز البلدي في الضفة الغربية – فلسطين

A field survey was conducted to characterize local “Baladi” goats in the West Bank, Palestine. A total of 104 flocks were sampled in the Southern, Central and Northern geographical regions. Qualitative and quantitative characteristics were recorded on 104 bucks and 416 does. Significant differences were found between males and females and among regions. The multivariate discriminant analyses were able to identify seven body measures for bucks and eight body measures for does which were significant in discriminating Baladi goat populations from the three regions. For bucks, the squared Mahalanobis distances showed higher differentiation between the Southern and Central regions (11.83) and between the Southern and Northern regions (8.02) than between the Central and Northern regions (4.27). For does, distances were similar (3.05, 2.90, and 3.13 between Southern and Central, between Southern and Northern, and between Central and Northern regions, respectively). Canonical discriminant analyses showed that 81.6% of bucks and 74.1% of does were correctly classified into their geographic areas with highest rates found in the Southern region (96.9% of bucks and 88.3% of does). These results form the basis for the development of future characterization and conservation plans of Baladi goats in Palestine. لقد تم دراسة الصفات الشكلية والمظهرية للماعز البلدي في الضفة الغربية باستخدام المسح الميداني. وكان عدد قطعان الماعز المستهدفة 104 موزعة على مناطق شمال ووسط وجنوب الضفة الغربية. وقد تم دراسة الصفات النوعية و الكمية ل 104 من الذكور و416 من الاناث. وبينت نتنائج الدراسة فروقات معنوية بين الذكور والاناث وبين المناطق المختلفة (الشمال، الوسط و الجنوب). وقد حدد تحليل multivariate discriminant analysis سبع صفات في الذكور وثمان في الاناث مهمة في التمييز بين الماعز في المناطق المختلفة. وبالنسبة للذكور فقد بين التحليل ان مسافة Mahalanobis كانت اعلى بين المناطق الجنوبية والوسطى (11.8) وبين قطعان الجنوب والشمال (8.02)، مقارنة بين الوسط والشمال (4.27). اما بالنسبة للاناث فقد كانت المسافات متشابهة بين المناطق المختلفة (3.05، 2.90، 3.13 بين الجنوب والوسط، والجنوب والشمال، والوسط والشمال، على الترتيب). كما بين تحليل canonicalان 81.6 من الذكور و74.1 من الاناث في مناطق الدراسة قد صنفت بطريقة صحيحة حسب مناطقها وكان اعلى معدل للتصنيف الصحيح في المنطقة الجنوبية من الضفة الغربية (96.9% للذكور و 88.3% للاناث).ومن هنا، يمكن اعتماد نتلئج هذه الدراسة كاساس لتطوير الخطط المستقبلية والبرامج المتعلقة بتشخيص والمحافظة على الماعز البلدي في فلسطين وتحسينه.

Impact of breeding season on hormonal profile and some biochemical parameters at different stages of pregnancy in Baladi goats

ABSTRACTThe aim was to evaluate the effects of breeding season on progesterone concentrations and blood chemistry at different stages of pregnancy in normal breeding (NB) or out-of-season breeding (OB) in goats. In total, 44 multiparous Baladi goats were monitored for seasonal breeding, either NB group or OB group. Blood samples were collected on days 40 (early), 90 (mid) and 120 (late) of the gestation. In the early pregnancy and mid-pregnancy, the NB group had significantly higher serum progesterone level than the OB group (P=0.003 and 0.020, respectively). However, no significant variation was reported in the serum progesterone level in the late stage of pregnancy (P=0.519). Although no significant differences were reported in the serum total proteins between both breeding groups, the NB group had significantly higher serum albumin than the OB group at the mid (P=0.045) and late (P=0.031) stages of pregnancy. Compared to the OB group, the NB group had significantly higher serum cholesterol at the early (P=0.001) and mid (P=0.004) stages of pregnancy. In conclusion, the NB group showed significantly higher progesterone levels in the early and mid stages of gestation compared with the OB group. This may indicate specific strategies to maintain the pregnancy in goats during the non-breeding season.

Immunohistochemical Study on the Ruminal Wall of Adult Baladi Goats (Capra hircus)

A total number of eight Baladi goats (Capra hircus)of both sexes aged between 11-18 months-old were used to describe the histological structure of the ruminal wallin addition to investigate the immunohistochemical localization and distribution of ki-67, caspase 3 and vimentin. The results revealed no sex differences in the ruminal wall histology or immunohistochemistry.Histologically, the ruminal wall consisted of mucosa-submucosa, muscularis and serosa. The mucosaof the rumen was thrown into ruminal papillae that were coveredby keratinized epithelium. The submucosa was consisted of loose connective tissue lacking glands. Circular and longitudinal smooth muscle layers were the components ofmuscularis however, the rumen was surrounded externally by typical serosa. The immunohistochemical study was done using theavidin-biotin immunoperoxidase method. Ki-67 immunostaining was limited to nuclei of basal cells layer in the ruminal epitheliumwhich explained the importanceof ki-67 in epithelial cells proliferation as well askeratin biosynthesis. Caspase 3 immunostaining was localized in cytoplasm and nuclei of some epithelial cells that were going to apoptosis.The vimentinimmunostaining was widely spread in epithelial cells as well as,fibroblasts in propria and submucosa, and endothelia of blood vessels.This showed theimportance of vimentin asan intermediate filament protein. Detection of vimentin in the glial cells of enteric plexuses indicatedits supportive role in the nervous control of the rumen. Overall, the histological and immunohistochemical findings of this study explainedthe structure-function relationship of the rumen of Baladi goats

Characterization of progesterone profile, physiological responses, milk composition and blood biochemical and hematological indices at the early stage of lactation in goats

ABSTRACTThe aim of this research was to describe the progesterone profile, physiological response, milk composition, and blood chemistry at the early stage (DIM 30-90 days) of lactation (E1:30-50; E2:50-70; E3:70-90 days) in Baladi goats under Egyptian conditions. The serum progesterone level was significantly reduced with the progress of the early lactation period to reach the least concentration (0.24 ng/ml) at the E3 stage of lactation (P=0.001). The daily milk yield was significantly increased with the progress of the lactation to reach the peak at the E2 stage of lactation (P=0.015). The percentage of milk fat was significantly decreased with the progress of the early lactation period (P=0.032). However, the percentages of total solids and SNF were significantly increased in E2 and E3 stages when compared with the E1 stage (P=0.001 and 0.018, respectively). The serum glucose and total antioxidant capacity were considerably reduced with the progress of the lactation period (P=0.047 and 0.039, respectively). In conclusion, Baladi goats showed a decreased serum progesterone level with the progress of the early lactation period and produce milk with a relatively stable protein and lactose contents. Furthermore, Baladi does able to maintain the stability of most blood biochemical parameters during such period.

Effect of season on hormonal profile and some biochemical parameters at different stages of estrous cycles in Baladi goats

Understanding the seasonal patterns of estrus cycle in caprine is crucial to develop the efficient breeding plans in the subtropics. Thus, the aim of the current research was to evaluate the effects of breeding season on hormonal profile and blood biochemical indices at different stages of estrus cycle in normal breeding or out-of-season breeding in goats. Forty-four Baladi goats were monitored for a period of eight months (July–February). Baladi goats exhibit a normal seasonal breeding (NS) at midsummer and continue through the autumn season (68%), with a considerable percentage of females having estrus signs during out-of-season (OS) period (32%). At the mid and late luteal phases of estrus cycles, the NS breeding group had significantly higher serum progesterone level than that reported in the OS group (p = 0.013 and 0.039, respectively). At the estrus and late luteal phases of estrus cycles, the NS breeding group had significantly higher serum β-estradiol level than that reported in the OS group (p = 0.022 and 0.001, respectively). Compared to the OS group, the NS breeding group had significantly higher serum cholesterol at the mid and late luteal phases of estrus cycle (p = 0.001 and 0.016, respectively), and higher serum glucose level in the early luteal phase of the cycle (p = 0.009). In conclusion, the NS breeding goats had superior progesterone (mid-luteal and late luteal phases) and estradiol (estrus and late luteal phases) profiles than that reported in the OS group. This may indicate specific approaches to maintain the breeding efficiency of goats during the out-of-season period.

Effect of Heat Stress on Reproductive and Productive Traits in Baladi and Crossbred Goat Does under Subtropical Conditions

This experiment was conducted to study the effect of heat stress on some reproductive and productive performance in purebred and crossbred female goats under both of hot (summer season) and mild climatic (winter season) conditions. Forty mature female goats (20 Baladi and 20 crossbred (50% Zaraibi x 50% Baladi) used in this research. Results- cundity were higher in experimental does during mild climate conditionsthan hot climate conditions. Birth weight recorded higher values inmild climate conditions in comparison with hot climate conditions. Concerningto breed, reproductive traits were higher in crossbred goat doescompared with purebred goat does. Crossbred goat does showed higher(P<0.01 or P<0.0001) in all productive traits than Baladi goat does. Cortisolhormone concentration showed lower (P<0.0001) concentration undermild climate conditions than hot climate conditions during differentstages of estrous cycle, pregnancy and postpartum periods. On the otherin crossbred goat does compared with purebred does during differentstages of estrous cycle, except diestrous period. Similar trend was foundduring pregnancy and postpartum periods (P<0.01 or P<0.0001). It could-productive and productive traits of goats and in the same time, crossbredwas better than purebred goats.

Initial evaluation of willow (Salix acmophylla) irrigated with treated wastewater as a fodder crop for dairy goats

This research aimed at providing a first evaluation of willow tree (Salix acmophylla) irrigated by secondarily-treated wastewater as a fodder for goats. The nutrient and mineral contents in stems and leaves of two willow types (termed “red” and “white” for their bark color) and the concentration of secondary compounds were established. The adaptation of naïve goats to willow forage and its effect on the milk composition of late lactating goats were also studied. Willow fodder was composed of 45% leaves and 55% stems, on a DM basis; the weighted content of CP, ME, NDF, Ca, and P were (on a DM basis): 13.6%, 1.8 Mcal, 44.9%, 1.1%, and 0.2%, respectively. Lead, nickel and cadmium were found below the detection threshold in willow fodder and the concentrations of metals did not exceed the recommended ranges in feed. Intake was higher for red than for white willow fodder. The adaptation rate to white willow was low (27g/d) but steady and intake was similar to that of clover hay after one week. White willow contained 1.2-fold more salicin (P<0.05), 1.5-fold more gallic acid (P<0.01) and 1.8-fold more kaempferol than red willow. The two types of willow did not differ in their concentrations of salicylic acid, hyperin, salidroside and helicon. No evidence was found that willow at the amounts consumed in this study – up to 500g/d during the adaptation period and ca. 600g/d in late lactation – could be harmful to goats, as neither of the liver enzymes increased in blood, following exposure to willow. When Baladi (Mamber) goats at their third lactation at 240days post-partum were provided with willow after grazing hours for a period of 10days, milk yield was not affected. Somatic cell counts soared from 1.3*106 to up to 2.9*106 in the control group, but did not change in the group that was fed willow. These initial results imply that willow that is irrigated with treated wastewater can serve as medium-quality forage for dairy goats. Specific compounds contained in willow fodder may be of significant value in maintaining and improving the health and welfare of dairy goats.

EFFECT OF USING SOME FIBROLYTIC ENZYMES IN THE RATION ON LACTATING GOATS PERFORMANC

The present study was carried out at farm and laboratory of Animal Production Department- Faculty of Agriculture, Fayoum University, Egypt. Fibrolytic enzymes were evaluated throughexperiments conducted by using nine of lactating baladi goats after 20 days of parturition and divided into three groups, three animals per each group. The first group was fed 50% concentrate feed mixture , 10% Egyptian clover and 40% wheat straw (Control ration). The second group was fed control ration supplemented with Asperozym(locally produced cellulase enzyme) at level of 1000 unit of cellulase enzyme /kg DM intake (R1). The third group was fed control ration supplemented with Phytabex plus O (commercial cellulolytic enzyme source ) at level of 1000 unit of cellulolytic enzymes /kg DM intake. (R2 ). The results revealed that Asperozym was superior to Phytabex plus O for improving feed digestion and milk production by goats.. There were significant (P≤0.05) increases in fat corrected milk yield ( 4 % fat) and fat percentage of ( R1) and ( R2 ) compared to control ration. Feed conversion of DM, SV and TDN was decreased significantly (P≤0.05) with control ration compared to R1 and R2 rations. Results of some blood serum analysis showed that no side effect of using the tested cellulolytic enzymes on lactating goats. From economical point of view, the best ration was R1 he present study was carried out at farm and laboratory of Animal Production Department- Faculty of Agriculture, Fayoum University, Egypt. Fibrolytic enzymes were evaluated throughexperiments conducted by using nine of lactating baladi goats after 20 days of parturition and divided into three groups, three animals per each group. The first group was fed 50% concentrate feed mixture , 10% Egyptian clover and 40% wheat straw (Control ration). The second group was fed control ration supplemented with Asperozym(locally produced cellulase enzyme) at level of 1000 unit of cellulase enzyme /kg DM intake (R1). The third group was fed control ration supplemented with Phytabex plus O (commercial cellulolytic enzyme source ) at level of 1000 unit of cellulolytic enzymes /kg DM intake. (R2 ). The results revealed that Asperozym was superior to Phytabex plus O for improving feed digestion and milk production by goats.. There were significant (P≤0.05) increases in fat corrected milk yield ( 4 % fat) and fat percentage of ( R1) and ( R2 ) compared to control ration. Feed conversion of DM, SV and TDN was decreased significantly (P≤0.05) with control ration compared to R1 and R2 rations. Results of some blood serum analysis showed that no side effect of using the tested cellulolytic enzymes on lactating goats. From economical point of view, the best ration was R1

Gross anatomy and ultrasonography of the udder in goat

Abstract Introduction: The udder is a very important structural and physiological component in all dairy animals, so the precise knowledge of its normal gross morphology is fundamental for the clinical examination. Objective: The current study aimed to clarify the gross anatomical characteristics and ultrasonographic findings of the udder in Egyptian native breeds of goat (Baladi goat). Materials and Methods: Thirteen healthy Baladi goats during lactation period were grossly investigated and then they were examined through B-mode ultrasonography. Two specimens were used for corrosion casting and the remaining specimens were subjected to the anatomical dissection. Results: The gross anatomical investigation revealed that the udder of goat was consisted of two halves; each one had mammary body and teat, and it was suspended in the ventral abdominal wall and pelvic floor through the medial and lateral suspensory laminae. Moreover, each half was composed of a single mammary unit which included the mammary glandular parenchyma, lactiferous ducts, lactiferous sinus and teat canal ended by a teat orifice. These mammary structures showed variant echogenicity during ultrasonographic examination according to their reflective intensity to the ultrasound. Conclusion: The morphological features and ultrasonographic findings obtained in this study could assist in the further diagnosis of several pathological conditions of the udder of goat.

Organoleptic and physico-chemical evaluation of capretto baladi goats: a value-added meat alternative in an extensive rearing system.

The local Baladi breed is considered a common source of fresh meat in Lebanon. Due to the extensive rearing system and the scarcity of pasture, kids resulting from multiple births are not reared, though cultural preference for young meat may valorize these twin kids as an expensive delicacy. Few studies observed growth parameters, physical-chemical and sensory properties of meat in Baladi kids. Therefore, 24 male Baladi kids were fed milk ad libitum post-natally for 24 days, after which 9 were randomly selected and fed pasture grass ad libitum and goat milk (Control), and 15 were fed only milk (Capretto) twice per day. Animals were slaughtered at 4, 6 and 8 weeks of age and body organs compared. Feed intake was measured by weighing kids pre- and post- feeding, and body weight measured twice per week. Meat chemical properties were total ether-extracted fat, kjeldhal protein, and minerals. Meat organoleptic properties were evaluated by consumers for color, taste, odor, richness, juiciness, tenderness and overall appreciation, as cooked by housewives or professionals. Data were analyzed as a CRD using SPSS 10.0 and presented as LSMeans ± SEM. Results showed that Capretto consumed increasing levels of milk from 4 to 8 weeks, with ADG decreasing (P&lt;0.05) from 4 to 8 weeks. Capretto showed 5% less (P&lt;0.05) weight than control kids. Carcass yield was higher (P&lt; 0.05) for Capretto (44.5 ± 3.4 %) than control (36.3 ± 3.3%), with Capretto showing smaller viscera and lower hemoglobin. Both blood and meat (protein, cholesterol) composition did not differ (P&gt;0.05) between Capretto and control, although capretto showed lower (p&lt;0.05) meat fat content than control kids. Meat organoleptic characteristics were desirable at weeks 4 and 6 for both Capretto and control kids, whereas only Capretto meat stayed desirable at week 8. To conclude, Capretto kids have similar properties to their traditional counterparts, with added desirable properties for a longer growing period, in addition to the increased health benefit of lower fat content.

Acute phase proteins as indicators of stress in Baladi goats from Jordan

ABSTRACTThis study aimed to evaluate haptoglobin (Hp), serum amyloid A (SAA), and C-reactive protein (CRP) in goats following exposure to heat and transportation stressors. In the heat stress (HS) experiment (4-week period), six goats were exposed to direct solar radiation vs. six goats exposed to shade regimen. In the transportation stress experiment, six goats were transported for 2 h in a vehicle vs. a control group (n = 6). Blood samples were collected and serum concentrations of acute phase proteins (APPs) were measured. Rectal temperature, respiratory rate, heart rate, and body weight were recorded. All statistical analyses were performed using the proc General Linear Model (SPSS 19.0). Results indicated that Hp and SAA concentrations were significantly affected by HS (P < 0.05). Only Hp concentrations were significantly affected by transportation stress (P < 0.05). In conclusion, results suggest a possible use of Hp and SAA as potential indicators and sensitive markers in monitoring HS in goats.

Influence of Vit.C on Egyptian Baladi Goats (Capra Hircus) with Gentamicin Induced Nephrotoxicit

Nephrotoxicity is the main problem associated with gentamicin. So this work aimed to evaluate the effect of Vitamin C on gentamicin -induced nephrotoxicity in Baladi goats (Capra hircus) based on the clinical, haematobiochemical and histopathological changes. To achieve this aim, ten clinical healthy Baladi goats were allotted into two groups, each of five. The first group was gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity that injected with gentamicin while, the second group was injected with Vitamin C along with gentamycin. Jugular blood samples were collected at 0, 7, and 12 days post gentamycin injection. Dullness, decreased appetite and unable to stand and lie down were the main signs exhibited after gentamicin injection. However, these signs did not appear in Vitamin C treated goats. In addition, there was significant increase in serum urea, creatinine and serum MDA. While hematological examination showed a significant decrease in Hb content and RBCs content and erythrocyte SOD. In the meantime, histopathological examinations revealed severe renal damage. Marked improvement in the haematobiochemical changes were detected in gentamicin Vitamin C treated goats with mild renal damage. Our results suggest the cytoprotective role of Vitamin C on gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity in goats that could be attributed to its anti-oxidant activity, a result of high importance in clinical application.

Effects of Date Pits on Performance, Carcass Quality and Nutrient Digestibility of Baladi Goat Kids

Effects of Date Pits on Performance, Carcass Quality and Nutrient Digestibility of Baladi Goat Kids

Anion gap as bio-diagnostic index in prediction of dystocia, retained placenta and delayed uterine involution of Baladi goat (Field study)

Objective: To assess the anion gap (AG) validity in prediction the goat's fertility before parturition. Methods: This study was carried out on two groups (20/20, aged 4–6 years and weighted 30–43 kg) of pluriparous pregnant Baladi goats. Animals were subjected to clinical examination, blood sampling to assess serum biochemical parameters in correlation with utrasonographic assessment of uterine horn involution (UTI) and placental dropping time after kidding. Unpaired student t–test was used to detect the significance of differences (P

The architectural and functional specifications of intrinsic muscles of the fore limb of the Egyptian Baladi goats (Capra hircus)

This study provides quantitative anatomical data on the muscle–tendon units of intrinsic muscles of the fore limb of the domesticated goat specifically; muscle mass, volume, fascicle length, tendon mass, tendon volume, and tendon rest length. From these measurements, the physiological cross sectional area (PCSA) and maximum isometric force (Fmax), in addition to tendon stress and tendon strain were calculated for each muscle. A total of 180 muscles (60 from each cadaver; 30 in each limb) were dissected to examine each muscle functional specifications and their role in limb function. The largest muscle mass was revealed to have the largest volume, long fascicle length and the highest capacity for force production. Within the functional groups of muscles, the proportion of muscle mass, muscle volume, PCSA as well as force generation was the greatest for the shoulder flexors followed by shoulder extensors. This is suitable for their role in weight bearing. The muscles working on joints of digits were having long tendons with high cross section area (CSA) and architecture index (AI) and thus were functionally suited to elastic energy storage needed for digital movement. In conclusion, architecture properties are crucial factors for determination of muscle function.

Impact of Dominance on Behaviour of Goat reared under Different Housing Systems

This study was carried out on a flock of Baladi goat breed belonging to the farm of Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University and a private farm, at Hehia city, Sharkia governorate on a total number fourty baladi goats, apparently healthy, aged from 9-18 months were used to and divided into 20 goat on each system of housing either insemi-intensive system and village system to investigate the effect of dominance hierarchy on ingestive ( feeding, drinking and rumination) , aggressive and eliminative behaviour( frequency of urination and defecation) of goat in relation to housing system. The animals were allocated randomly into two separate, equal groups (4 males, 16 females). The results revealed that there was a significance difference (P 0.66 were higher than goats with dominance index(0.33-0.66)and goat with dominance index