Flotation Technique Research Articles

Prevalence of Gastrointestinal Nematodes, Cestodes, and Protozoans of Goats in Nyagatare District, Rwanda.

Goat farming significantly contributes to the efficient use of land and socioeconomic development in developed and developing countries. During the fiscal year 2017-2018, goats made up 13.5% of the total live livestock exported by Rwanda. Gastrointestinal parasites (GIPs) can negatively impact goat production, especially in developing countries like Rwanda. This study aimed to determine the impact of the goat' age and location (administrative cell) on the prevalence of gastrointestinal nematodes, cestodes, and protozoans (GiNCPs) of goats in Nyagatare district, Rwanda. In this cross-sectional study, 149 faecal samples were collected from apparently unwell goats and analyzed using the simple flotation technique. Strongyle-type nematodes (STNs) infections were graded using the McMaster method. Pearson chi-square tests of independence were calculated to assess the impact of the goat' age and location on the prevalence of GiNCPs in the study area. All the goats (100%) were infected with GiNCPs. The identified types of parasites were STNs (96.0%), Coccidia (83.2%), Moniezia spp (14.8%), Strongyloides papillosus (12.8%), Nematodirus spp (0.7%) and Trichuris ovis (0.7%). Nearly 85.9% (128/149) of the goats were coinfected with 2 to 4 types of parasites and the coinfection of STNs and coccidia preponderated at 58.4%. The location (administrative cell) of the goats correlated with the prevalence of monieziasis (p<0.05). The goat's age category was also associated with the prevalence of strongyloidiasis (p<0.05). All the goats (100%) were infected with GiNCPs. The location (administrative cell) of the goat also correlated with the prevalence of monieziasis. In addition, the goat's age category was associated with the prevalence of strongyloidiasis. These findings show that any control program for caprine gastrointestinal parasitoses in the study area should focus on STNs and Coccidia.

The Gastrointestinal Parasites in Habituated Group of Sulawesi Black-crested Macaque (&lt;i&gt;Macaca nigra&lt;/i&gt;) in Tangkoko, North Sulawesi

The Sulawesi black-crested macaque (Macaca nigra) is an endemic primate of North Sulawesi that is categorized as critically endangered (IUCN 2015). Endoparasite contributes to the decline of M.nigra. Therefore, this study aims to determine the prevalence of endoparasites in the Sulawesi black-crested macaque (M. nigra). We collected 80 fresh fecal samples representing all sex from the two habituated groups. We analyzed them using the direct examination technique (0.9% NaCl, iodine, methylene blue) and flotation technique with the modified McMaster test. A total of 15 endoparasite taxa were recorded and 78 of 80 samples were infected with at least one or several endoparasite taxa. Around 93.75% (75/80) samples were positive for protozoa (Balantidium sp., Entamoeba sp., Giardia sp., and Isospora sp.) and 88.75% (71/80) samples were positive for helminths (Ancylostoma sp., Strongyloides sp., Haemonchus sp., Trichuris sp., Trichostrongylus sp., Ascarid sp., Diphyllobothrium sp., Echinococcus sp., Hymenolepis sp., Schistosoma japonicum and Schistosoma mekongi). The abundance of protozoa was higher than helminth, although the number of helminth taxon (11) was higher. The average temperature and monthly rainfall did not affect the number of endoparasites (EPG). The prevalence was higher in females than males due to different social styles; female crested macaques are more tolerant than males. The group with a larger number of individuals had a higher prevalence of endoparasites. These results confirm the presence and high diversity of gastrointestinal endoparasites in M. nigra, which can help to understand transmission dynamics and zoonotic potential, as well as to consider conservation policies.

Metagenomic Studies for the Detection of Parelaphostrongylus odocoilei, Ostertagia leptospicularis and Eimeria ahsata in Northern Cyprus Sheep for the First Time

Background: Gastrointestinal parasitism is considered one of the major health problems of ruminants in developing and undeveloped countries in the world. Despite the universal knowledge of these parasites, little is known about their prevalence and distribution in Northern Cyprus. This study is aimed at the microscopic and metagenomic study of gastrointestinal parasites across Cyprus sheep farms. Methods: A total of 200 sheep faecal samples were randomly collected across sheep farms in suburban regions of Northern Cyprus during 2021-22. Samples were analyzed using the centrifugal floatation technique. Data were subjected to chi-square test analysis on SPSS to determine the relationship between age, sex of animals and prevalence of gastrointestinal nematodes. Samples were randomly selected to extract DNA and subjected to metagenomic analysis after which DNA has been extracted from the samples. Result: Our investigations in the Northern Cyprus sheep farms allowed us to identify three species of gastrointestinal parasites namely Parelaphostrongylus odocoilei, Ostertagia leptospicularis and Eimeria ahsata which are new to this region. The GINs recovered are Haemonchus, Moniezia and Toxocara among others. A high prevalence (85%) of gastrointestinal parasites was recorded. Results showed a considerable significant relationship (P less than 0.05) between the age of animals and parasite prevalence.

Diagnóstico de parasitosis gastrointestinal en ganado vacuno de razas carniceras con diferentes técnicas coproparasitológicas

Gastrointestinal parasites in production cattle are one of the most important health problems worldwide. These nematodes cause gastroenteric problems that are clinically characterized by diarrhoea, weakness, bleeding and dehydration. Within the gastrointestinal parasites caused by nematodes in cattle, the following families stand out: Trichuridae, Trichostrongylidae, Ancylostomidae, Ascaridae and Strongyloididae. The purpose of this research was to determine the efficacy of the different qualitative and quantitative coproparasitological techniques for the detection of gastrointestinal nematodes in cattle. For this study, 250 samples of beef breed cows were used, divided into different groups, for the application of qualitative and quantitative coproparasitological techniques, which were specifically chosen taking into account inclusion and exclusion criteria for each animal. The results delivered by this study indicated that the highest percentage in the identification of parasitic infective states was through qualitative coproparasitological techniques, focused mainly on zinc and magnesium sulfate flotation techniques with 50%.

A repeated cross-sectional study of intestinal parasites in Texas shelter dogs using fecal flotation and saline sedimentation.

Estimates of intestinal parasite prevalence in canine populations have largely been based on use of fecal flotation methods only. Dogs in animal shelters are likely at higher risk of intestinal parasite infection because of their previous exposure history. Our objectives were to estimate the prevalence of intestinal parasites among Texas shelter dogs using centrifugal fecal flotation and saline sedimentation techniques, to identify risk factors for infection, and to compare proportions of positive samples detected via fecal flotation vs. saline sedimentation for the most common parasites. Using a repeated cross-sectional study design, we collected fecal samples from dogs on three visits to each of seven Texas animal shelters between May 2013 and December 2014. Fecal flotation and/or saline sedimentation were used to identify parasites in samples. Fecal samples were collected from 529 dogs. The most frequently detected parasites were Ancylostoma caninum (26.4% via fecal flotation, 20.7% via saline sedimentation) and Trichuris vulpis (12.0% via fecal flotation, 14.1% via saline sedimentation). Risk factors for certain parasites were identified; for example, dogs with abnormal fecal consistency were more likely to be shedding T. vulpis eggs than dogs with normal fecal consistency (OR = 1.8, p = 0.005). The addition of fecal sedimentation not only added to the number of parasite species detected in this study, but it also increased the number of dogs diagnosed with the common intestinal parasites that are primarily detected using fecal flotation methods. Texas shelter dogs carry a high burden of intestinal parasites, including those of zoonotic importance.

Cryptosporidium in human-animal-environment interphase at Adama and Asella areas of Oromia regional state, Ethiopia

BackgroundIn Ethiopia, several studies have reported the occurrence of Cryptosporidium infection in young calves, lambs, and HIV positive patients. However, research on cattle and sheep of all ages, as well as humans, has been limited.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted to investigate the occurrence of Cryptosporidium in dairy cattle, sheep, humans, and manure samples. Dairy cattle and sheep were stratified according to their age groups and randomly sampled. Stool samples from volunteered dairy farm workers and rural household members were collected purposefully. A semi-structured questionnaire was also used to collect information about manure handling practices and socio-demographic variables. All collected samples were processed with the sugar floatation technique and the modified Ziehl–Neelsen staining method. Logistic regression was used to analyze the association of risk factors with the occurrence of Cryptosporidium in study subjects (p < 0.05).ResultsThe overall prevalence of Cryptosporidium in dairy cattle, sheep, humans, and manure samples was 20.5%, 14%, 16%, and 13.20%, respectively. Cryptosporidium infection was significantly higher in dairy cattle aged 1–12 months and 13–36 months with odds of 3.48 and 3.07 times higher, respectively, compared to others. Similarly, its occurrence was 2.69 times higher in sheep aged 1–6 months than those above 6 months. And also, a higher average oocyst count (above 10 oocysts) per-field was observed in cattle aged 1–12 months, followed by sheep aged 1–6 months. Furthermore, the likelihood of infection was 13 times greater in farm workers compared to household members of smallholder farmers. In addition, the occurrence of oocysts was 22.8 times higher in manures from dairy cattle than that of sheep. About 16.8% of the study respondents had manure disposal pit, 98.1% of them used manure as fertilizer for crop and vegetable production without any treatment.ConclusionsThe study revealed the occurrence of Cryptosporidium infection in all age groups of dairy cattle and sheep, humans engaged in animal production. Occurrence of Cryptosporidium in manure suggests it potential contamination of environment and water sources.

Contamination of Soils with Helminthic Eggs in Some Districts of Duhok Governorate / Kurdistan Region-iraq

Duhok Governorate, Kurdistan Region consists of many districts, where there is a high distribution of animals, presences of public parks and pastures. The present study was conducted in some of districts (Duhok center, Semel, Amadyia and Sharya) of Duhok Governorate, Kurdistan Region. The current study amid to determine the contamination of soils with helminthic ova and their correlation with the district residents, type of soil and presence of animals (Mainly stray Dogs and Cats). During this study, 533 soil samples were collected randomly from October 2021 to May 2022.&nbsp; The samples were collected from different places such as dog shelters, general parks, groves, Hospital parks, near pastures, near sewage, private gardens, school parks, and near slaughter houses. &nbsp;The collected samples were tested by flotation technique using saturated zinc sulphate (specific gravity 1.2). &nbsp;&nbsp; The total rate of soil contamination with helminthic ova in all examined samples was 23.45% (125 / 533). The highest contamination rate with these ova was reported in soil samples examined from Sharya Camp 53.57% (30/56), while the lowest contamination rate was from Semel district 19.22% (49/255). The rates of ova in soils collected from Amadyia and Duhok center were 23.61% (34/144) and 15.38% (12/78), respectively. Regarding to the locations, soil samples examined from rural areas revealed high rate of contamination 29.33% (107/366) as compared with urban areas, in which the rate was 10.78% (18/167). The contamination rates with helminthic ova according to the type of soil, in clay soil was 26.54%, while in silty and sandy soils were 24.39% and 14.96%, respectively. The contamination rate of soils with these ova was higher in areas populated with animals mainly dogs and cats which was 26.44% (78/295) as compared to areas free from animals 19.75% (47/238) (19. Regarding to different places, the results showed that soils in places close to the sewage were highly contaminated with ova 50.00% (3/6), followed by those near pasture 37.50% (15/40), groves 35.56% (16/35), dog shelters 32.18% (28/87), school Parks 29.41% (10/34), near slaughter houses 27.50% (11/40), public places 21.05% (32/152). On the other hand, the lowest contamination of the soil with these ova was recorded in private gardens 8.26% (10/121), while the soil samples from hospital parks were free from parasitic ova. According to the type of helminths, ova of 6 helminthic genera were reported in all (533) examined soil samples, with Toxocara ova being the most prevalent helminths detected in 34 (6.38%), samples, then ova of Hymenolepis nana in 32 (6.00%), Taeniid ova in 26 (4.88%), Ancylostoma ova in 15 (2.81%), Ascaris ova in 12 (2.25%), and Trichuris ova in 6 (1.13%). &nbsp;In conclusion, the soils of some districts were contaminated with different types of helminthic eggs. Therefore, the people of these districts will be at a high risk of acquiring infection with different species of these parasites when they get contacts with the soil

Survey on the prevalence of intestinal parasites in domestic cats (Felis catus Linnaeus, 1758) in central Nepal.

Cats(Felis catus) are the only felines that live in close contact with humans. Since cats can act as vectors, carriers, reservoirs and definitive hosts of many gastrointestinal (GI) parasites, parasitic assessment could contribute to their survival and well-being. The current study aimed to assess the diversity and prevalence of GI parasites in domestic and feral cats from Ratnanagar in Chitwan in Central Nepal. A total of 107 fresh faecal samples of cats (90 household cats and 17 feral cats) of varied ages and sex were collected and transported to the laboratory. The copromicroscopic examination was carried out following direct wet mount, formalin-ethyl acetate sedimentation, saturated salt flotation, acid-fast staining and sporulation techniques. Furthermore, associated risk factors were evaluated to ascertain the predictor of risks for parasitic acquisition. The current study revealed an overall 95.3% prevalence rate with a 100% rate in feral cats and 94.4% in household cats. Altogether, 18 (17 known and one unknown) different species of GI parasites were reported with the helminths (95.3%; 11 species) and the protozoa (55.1%; seven species). Besides age and sex, outdoor lifestyle, absence or unknown history of medication and hunting behaviour of the felines are the predictors of risk. Furthermore, mixed infection was comparatively higher than single infection in the faecal samples. Cats harbour a higher prevalence and greater diversity of GI parasites, and parasitism varies with age and sex. This finding can be essential for veterinarians and public health authorities for strategic treatment and for assessing the zoonotic transmission of the parasites from these felines. Importantly, an effective medication strategy for cats and owners is recommended.

Prevalence of Taeniid eggs in the Feces of Stray Dogs Collected from Different Location of Zakho city, Kurdistan Region, Iraq.

Iraq is an endemic country for cystic echinococcosis (CE). This disease is zoonotic infection with a widespread distribution among livestock and humans. The adult parasite inhabits the small intestine of dogs especially stray dogs, their eggs are excreted with the feces to the environment. The objective of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of Taeniid eggs and other intestinal parasites in the feces of stray dogs collected from different location of Zakho city. The study was conducted during the period from March 2020 to March 2021, in which 160 fecal samples of stray dogs were collected from soil surface of 10 different location in Zakho city. The feces were examined by direct wet mount and flotation technique to detect the presence of parasitic eggs and then the data were statistically analyzed. The overall, rate of infection was 46.25% (74/160) of examined fecal samples. The most frequently detected eggs were of Taeniid spp. constituting 23.13% (37/160) of the examined stool samples, with the highest rate (42.86%) being in samples collected from the areas around Zakho abattoir. Furthermore, other parasites recorded in this study, were Oxyurid spp. larvae (8.13%) and eggs of Dipylidium caninum (5%), Stronglodies stercoralis (5%), Toxocara spp. (4.38%) and Hymenolepis nana (0.63%).

GASTROINTESTINAL PARASITES IN Macaca fascicularis LIVING IN TWO URBAN AREAS OF MALAYSIA

Macaca fascicularis or commonly known as long-tailed macaques, are nonhuman primates that are increasingly vulnerable in becoming natural reservoirs for many microorganisms including gastrointestinal (GI) parasites, largely due to anthropogenic activities. This study was conducted to detect and compare GI parasites in M. fascicularis found in densely urbanized settings. The fecal samples of the long-tailed macaques were collected at a public university campus (Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi) and a tourist site (Bukit Melawati, Kuala Selangor). A total of 80 fecal samples were collected: 50 at the university campus, and the remaining samples from the tourist site. The fecal samples were processed by flotation techniques to include the GI parasites and then were subjected to morphological analysis to identify important taxonomy keys under microscopic magnification. A total of 139 parasites were identified from both locations and classified into 5 phylums and 17 families. Among the 139 parasites, 33 parasites were grouped into 6 genus of GI parasites. Among the gastrointestinal parasites that were identified from both study sites, three parasites were zoonotic namely Strongyloids spp., Trichostrongylus spp. and Trichuris spp. Results showed that the diversity index of GI parasites was higher at the university campus compared to the tourist site with Simpson’s Index values of 0.953 and 0.880, respectively, while the Shannon’s Index values were 3.282 and 2.399, respectively. This research revealed that there are more parasite infections in the long-tailed macaques in the campus surroundings compared to those found in the tourist site. Therefore, it is highly suggested that authority intervention by translocating the long-tailed macaques elsewhere is necessary to avoid prolonged contact and possible parasite transmission to humans, and if any parasitic infections occur, appropriate medication such as anthelmintic drugs should be readily available at the university campus clinics.

Froth flotation beneficiation and physiochemical characterization of coal from Achibo-Sombo-Dabaso area, southwestern Ethiopia

This study was carried out with one of the physiochemical techniques of coal sample beneficiation using froth flotation technique for upgrading the quality of Achibo-Sombo-Dabaso coal, southwestern Ethiopia. The investigations aimed to beneficiate high impure Ethiopian coal and to minimize its impurities present, so that it can replace the imported coal and the environmental pollution generated during combustion is reduced. The proximate and ultimate characterization studies show that the raw coal samples contain 11.81–20.27% moisture, 22.47–36.58% ash, 22.74–34.85% volatile matter, 23.85–38.31% fixed carbon, 1.22–1.44% nitrogen, 0.57–1.9% sulfur with 3243.59–5295.34 kcal/kg calorific value. Froth flotation experiments were carried out on the raw coal samples at varying parameters of collector dosages (0.0095 kg/ton, 0.0283 kg/ton, 0.0472 kg/ton, 0.0661 kg/ton and 0.085 kg/ton of diesel oil), frother dosages (0.0922 kg/ton, 0.1845 kg/ton, 0.2767 kg/ton, 0.3689 kg/ton and 0.4611 kg/ton of n-octanol) and particle size (500–250, 250–125, 125-63 μm). The experimental results for the treated coal samples are 8.12–14.02% moisture, 7.49–13.62% ash, 21.92–30.64% volatile matter, 44.47–55.87% fixed carbon, 0.52–0.92% nitrogen, 0.25–0.41% sulfur content with 5243.40–6531.46 kcal/kg of calorific value. The results of this study indicate that the treated coal samples are relative with high calorific value, fixed carbon and low ash content compared to the raw samples. The coal samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to understand the flotation and size distribution of coal. Therefore, the froth flotation technique at parameters of collector dosages (0.0472 kg/ton of diesel oil), frother dosages (0.3689 kg/ton of n-octanol) and particle size (125-63 μm) is effective to increase the calorific value above 5000 kcal/kg and increment carbon content of Achibo-Sombo-Dabaso coal that suitable as an energy source in cement and steel industries.

Epidemiological Investigation of Gastrointestinal Parasites of Dromedary Camels in Administrative Zone Three of Afar Region, Ethiopia.

Gastrointestinal parasites are the major threats to camel production and productivity losses in pastoral communities of Ethiopia. A cross-sectional study was conducted starting from September 2017 to April 2018 in Administrative Zone three of the Afar Region, Ethiopia. The objectives of the study were to determine the prevalence and associated risk factors for gastrointestinal parasites in camels. Fecal samples were collected aseptically from the rectum, and floatation and sedimentation techniques were used to identify the parasite in the laboratory. Out of 450 fecal samples collected from camels, 76% (71.8-79.7) of them were harboring at least one parasite in their gastrointestinal tract. The majority of infections were mixed parasitic infections. Nematodes, trematodes, protozoa, and cestodes were encountered in descending order of their prevalence. Strongyle, Trichostrongylus, and Haemonchus eggs were the most frequently encountered parasite eggs. The occurrence of parasite eggs was statistically significantly associated with the age of the camels and their origin (p value <0.05). Older camels in the Amibara district were the most likely affected groups (OR = 2.34 (1.01-5.44)). However, the sex of the camels was not associated with the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites. Generally, the present study indicated a high prevalence of parasites which were economically important in the study area. So, awareness about the magnitude and control options should be given to the camel owners in the study area. Infected animals should be treated with effective anthelmintics like albendazole and ivermectin. Routine and scheduled deworming and good husbandry practices should be implemented. Further study on seasonal occurrences and species identification of the parasites should be studied.

Development of process flow scheme on a low-grade calcareous graphite ore by split flotation technique

ABSTRACT The low-grade calcareous graphite ore contains 14.5% Fixed Carbon (FC), 71.82% ash, and 13.68% volatile matter plus moisture content. The primary liberation size, 210 µm was determined by the mesh of grind. In order to upgrade the ore, the sample was ground wet in a rod mill to obtain a coarse product of 210 µm size. It is further subjected to rougher flotation followed by one-stage cleaning of rougher float to reject the maximum amount of gangue minerals with a minimum amount of graphite losses at this size range. The first stage cleaner float was sieved over 150 µm size to separate +150 and −150 µm size fractions. These size fractions were subjected to grinding for further liberation of graphite values and thereby subjected to multistage cleaning separately to produce high-grade graphite concentrates. Three-stage grinding, and multistage cleanings were involved in the split flotation process to produce a high-grade flake and fine graphite concentrate. The combined graphite concentrate produced using the split flotation technique was 85.56% FC with a weight yield of 13.0% & recovery of 76.6%, comparatively more than 80.68% FC with a weight yield of 12.4% & recovery of 68.8% in the direct flotation technique results.

Comparative efficacy of ivermectin and fenbendazole against ancylostomiasis in dogs.

The present experiment was carried out to assess the comparative efficacy of ivermectin and fenbendazole individually for anthelmintic therapy for the hookworm infested dogs. Dogs presented to the Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine or Veterinary Clinical Complex, Bhubaneswar were randomly screened for Ancylostoma caninum infection and the positive dogs were selected for the therapeutic trial Faecal samples were collected randomly from presented dogs immediately after defaecation or from the rectum directly using a faecal scoop. The collected sample was examined by floatation technique to detect the positive cases of Ancylostoma caninum infection. The dogs with normal clinical parameters and no eggs or ova in the faeces were included in in group 1 (n = 12). Dogs with faecal sample positive for Ancylostoma caninum ova were recruited for the comparative study (n = 24) which were grouped into two groups consisting of 12 dogs in each (group 2 and 3). Group 2 dogs (n = 12) were treated with ivermectin at 200µg/kg body weight once orally repeated after 15days with proper supportive therapy each time. Group 3 (n = 12) were treated with fenbendazole at 50mg/kg body weight once orally repeated after 15days with proper supportive therapy each time. Haematological examinations and serum biochemical tests were carried out in all groups each time on day 0, 15 and 30 of the experiment. The therapeutic efficacy of both the drugs was calculated on the basis of number of animals found free of Ancylostoma infection as determined by reduction in EPG count of the faeces of the group following the treatment. The reduction in eggs per gram (EPG) count on day 15 and day 30 was more significant in group 2 than group 3. The mean EPG count reduced significantly to 24.17 ± 11.44 on day 15 from day 0 level of 1650.00 ± 247.25 in fenbendazole-treated dogs. On day 30, the mean value further reduced to become nil.The 15th day after treatment, mean (± SE) value of protein, albumin and globulin was changed to 5.63 ± 0.12, 2.64 ± 0.12 and 2.99 ± 0.15g/dl, respectively. The 30th day after treatment, the values were 6.23 ± 0.14, 3.20 ± 0.18 and 3.03 ± 0.21g/dl, respectively. The total protein and albumin values were significantly changed from day 0 level in group 2 and 3 by 15th day and 30th day, respectively, at 1% level of significance. Following treatment with ivermectin, the 15th day haematological values increased significantly at 1% level (P < 0.01) of significance. There was significant increase in the values at 1% level on the 30th day compared to day 0 and the mean values were non-significantly comparable to the healthy control group except PCV and TEC.

Prevalence and Species Identification of Calves Eimerosis in Sebeta Town, Oromia Specila Zone, Ethiopia

A cross-sectional study was conducted from January 2021 to July 2022 with the objectives of estimating the prevalence of coccidiosis, identifying Eimeria species involved, and assessing the associated risk factors in randomly selected 9 kebeles of Sebeta town dairy farms. Three hundred five fecal samples were randomly collected from calves to examine for the presence of Oocyst of Eimeria by floatation technique using saturated salt solution. For positive samples, solution of 2.5% potassium dichromate was added to the feces containing the Ocysts for preservation and identification of the Eimeria species. The overall prevalence of coccidiosis at animal level and herd level was 57.5% (157/305) and 78.7% (48/61) respectively. The most dominant identified Eimeria species were E. zuernii, E. auburnensis and E. canadinensis with the prevalence of 45.22% (71/157), 17.83% (28/157) and 14.01(22/157) respectively. Under host related factor there was statistically significant difference (p&lt;0.05) of sex, breed and fecal consistence with infection of Eimeria species but age, body condition and herd size were not significantly associated (p&gt;0.05) with Eimeria infection. With regard to non-host related factor kebele, barn hygiene, management system, water and feed source was statistically significant (p&lt;0.05) with Eimeria infection. However, house condition and pen type were not significantly associated (p&gt;0.05) with Eimeria infection. By using univariable logistic analysis the risk of getting coccidian infection was observed in kebele, sex, breed, barn hygiene, management, water and feed source, but the risk factors such as; age, body condition, fecal consistency, herd size, house condition and pen type were found to be statistically insignificant for Eimeria infection rate (p&gt;0.05). Indeed, the study revealed that calf coccidiosis is prevalent in dairy farms of Sebeta town. Hence, appropriate disease prevention and control program need to be undertaken to reduce its impact. More ever, we recommend to use PCR diagnostic technique which is more reliable, sensitive and less time-consuming for detection of Eimeria.

U(VI) removal from diluted aqueous systems by sorption–flotation

The legacies of past uranium mining and milling activities for nuclear fuel fabrication continue to be a cause of concern and require assessment and remedial action for researchers worldwide. The discharge of uranium contaminated water into the environment is a matter of regulation (World Health Organization, WHO—15 μg/L, Romanian Legislation, RO—21 μg/L), environment and health. Therefore, various removal technologies of U(VI) from diluted aqueous solutions include chemical precipitation, ion exchange, adsorption, immobilization on zero-valent iron nanoparticles, etc. have been extensively applied. Our previous research has studied the removal of U(VI) from diluted aqueous systems such as mine waters using Fe0-based nanomaterials synthesized in the laboratory (NMS) (Crane et al. in Water Res 45:2391–2942, 2011). The carbonate rich aqueous system was treated with NMS to remove U(VI). It was observed that after half an hour of reacting time only about 50% was removed due to its high tendency to form stable soluble carbonated complexes. Considering that, the present article aims to investigate the Sorption/Flotation technique, by using a sorbent generated in situ Fe2O3· nH2O and sodium oleate surfactant to remove U(VI) from diluted aqueous systems and to update the knowledge on the mechanism of process. In order to determine the removal efficiency of U(VI), the influencing factors were studied: pH, sorbent dose, surfactant concentration, contact time, stirring rate, the U(VI) concentration, air pressure in pressurized water recipient, and the effect of some accompanying heavy metals ions (Cu(II), Cr(VI), and Mo(VI)). The removal efficiency (%R) was monitored and its maximum values allowed to establish the optimal separation parameters (the established process parameters), which were validated on real mine water samples (MW). High U (VI) removal efficiencies %R > 98% were obtained. The Sorption/ Flotation technique was applied to remove U(VI) from two types of real mine water samples, namely ”simple” and ”pre-treated with NMS”, respectively. For the mine water samples pre-treated with NMS, it worked in two variants: with and without pH correction. For pH range = 7.5–9.5, molar ratios [U(VI)] : [Fe(III)] = 1 : 75, [U(VI)] : [NaOL] = 1 : 1 × 10–2, contact time 30 min., stirring speed 250 RPM, initial concentration of U(VI) 10 mg·L−1, air pressure in pressurized water recipient p = 4 × 105 N·m−2 is obtained %R > 98%. It has been found that Sorption / Flotation can function with good %R values as a stand—alone operation or in tandem with NMS pre-treatment of mine water and pH adjustment proved to be highly efficiency (CU(VI) < 1·10–3 mg·L−1).

Endoparasitic infections in captive wild mammals under human care in San Luis Potosí, Mexico

Objective: To determine the prevalence, richness and parasitic load in wild mammals of Tangamanga I and II Parks in San Luis Potosí, SLP. To assess whether infections are related to the type of feeding and weather seasons. Design/methodology/approach: Analysis of fresh feces collected for three consecutive days at two sampling stations. Passive flotation techniques with sodium nitrate (qualitative) and McMaster (quantitative) were used. Results: The overall prevalence observed was 36% (n=242). The parasitic wealth is formed by protozoa: Eimeria sp., Isospora sp. and Cystoisospora sp.; by the cestode Moniezia expansa, nematodes: Toxocara sp., Toxascaris sp., Ancylostoma sp./Uncinaria sp., Strongyloides sp., Trichuris suis and Strongylid eggs. The parasite load in the case of protozoa was in the range of 0 – 8505 oocysts per gram of faeces, and 0 – 1400 eggs per gram of faeces in the case of helminths. Statistical analyses showed that the prevalence of parasites does not depend on the climatic season, and only in Tangamanga II Park is the prevalence dependent on the type of feeding (herbivores). Study limitations/implications: The conservation method used limits the stool test techniques that can be employed (stool culture or sporulation). Findings/conclusions: Endoparasitic infections can be a potential risk to the health of animals. In particular to those of great genetic value such as species threatened with extinction. In addition, the potentially zoonotic parasites observed pose a threat to the health of caregivers

Coprological detection of Toxocariosis in domicile and stray dogs and cats in Sulaimani province, Iraq

Toxocara canis and Toxocara cati are ascarid nematodes, belong to the Toxocaridae family and genus Toxocara, causing toxocariosis in dogs and cats. The disease is mainly transmitted between animals and humans through ingestion of contaminated food with the embryonated eggs of the parasite. In addition, vertical transmission of the Toxocara larvae from pregnant bitches to their offspring through placenta and milk has been reported. Nowadays, stray dogs and cats, which are unvaccinated or not treated against the parasites, play a significant role in introducing the disease and seem to be a common public health concern. The study aimed to identify the rate of Toxocara canis and Toxocara cati infection among the domiciliary and stray dogs and cats that presented to the veterinary clinics, using direct fecal smear and fecal floatation techniques. The results showed that stray cats were highly infected 47.62% in comparison to domiciled cats 5.56%. In contrast, the T. canis infection among domiciled and stray dogs was about 11.11% and 11.76%, respectively. Adult cats and dogs were found to have a higher infectious rate cat; 30%, dogs; 14.81% than younger age groups cats; 27.58%, dogs; 8%. There was a moderate and highly significant positive correlation between the lifestyle and infectious rate in cats. In conclusion, stray cats and dogs are the leading risk factor for transmitting the disease.

Biodiversity of intestinal parasites in urban waters of the Ouislane River in central Morocco

The objective of the present study is to shed light on the parasitic load characterization of wastewater samples collected from four selected stations (O1, O2, O3 and O4 selected from upstream to downstream, on the bed of the Ouislane River in central Morocco. Parasite load flux (quantitative and qualitative) was determined monthly for one year, from January through December 2017, using direct spawning examination, the modified Bailenger concentration technique and the Faust flotation technique. Parasitological examination allowed the identification of helminth eggs and protozoan cysts, on the one hand, and the evaluation of the variation in the concentration of the parasitic load of this wastewater, on the other hand. The results of the present work allow the identification of 17 taxa: Ascaris lumbricoïdes, Trichuris trichiura, Capillaria sp, Ancylostoma diudinal, Enterobius vermicularis, Toxocara canis, Strongyloïdes stercolaris, Hymenolepis nana, Hymenolepis diminuta, Taenia saginata, Fasciola hépatica, Giardia lamblia, Entamoeba coli, Entamoeba histolytica, Blastocystis hominis, Balantidium coli and Cryptosporidium parvum. with a predominance of protozoan cysts over helminths eggs. The evolution of the parasitic load over time indicates the ubiquity of these parasitic species in raw wastewater at variable concentrations, which are closely related to the periods of human activities and according to the seasons. However, the high load of these intestinal parasites in the urban waters of Ouislane wadi will have a potential impact on human and livestock health. Hence the interest to prohibit their use commonly observed in the field and their practice in agriculture.

Effect of coccidial infection on growth of broilers raised on different litter materials in a deep litter system

The present study was carried out on broiler chickens to evaluate the effects of coccidial infection on the growth rate of broilers raised on different litter materials. Sixty-day-old broiler chicks, each weighing an average of 33.3 g, were randomly divided into four treatments of deep litter materials: sawdust, maize cob, groundnut husk and fallen leaves. Average weight was recorded, and faecal samples were collected weekly for eight weeks and analysed using the floatation technique. About 34% of the weekly faecal samples collected were infected with Coccidia. There was no significant difference in the intensity (Geometric Mean Intensity, GMI) of coccidial Oocyst in the different litter materials (p&gt;0.05; Fcal=0.62;d.f=3/28). The growth parameters tested in the experiment were body weight and body weight gain. Broilers on sawdust and maize cob gained more body weight with over 25% growth rate. Significant differences in growth were observed between the different litters; sawdust and maize cub; sawdust and groundnut husk; and sawdust and fallen leaves (p&lt;0.05). The result of the variance analysis showed that coccidial infection does not affect the growth rate of the broilers at (p&gt;0.05), and this was irrespective of the litter they were raised on. It can therefore be stated that maize cob, groundnut husk and fallen leaves could be used as an alternate litter to the commonly used sawdust which may reduce the high demand for sawdust and subsequently fall in price.