Infected Sheep Research Articles

Investigation of the Clinical and Diagnostic Aspects of Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR) in Sheep from the Southern Region of Iraq.

In the southern region of Iraq, Peste des petits ruminants (PPR) has been identified and diagnosed. The study was done on (300) local sheep breeds of varying ages and sexes exhibiting PPR symptoms, while (25), healthy sheep breeds served as the control group. Additionally, the diagnosis of PPRV was confirmed by PCR. Infected sheep exhibit a variety of clinical symptoms. However, DNA sequencing was used to detect genetic links and genetic variation, and the results revealed a closed genetic relationship with the NCBI BLAST PPRV India isolate (GU014574.1) at total genetic variation (0.02-0.01%). Results indicate a large rise in PCV and ESR in conjunction with leukocytopenia and lymphocytopenia, a significant difference in clotting factor indices, and a significant increase in ALT, AST, and CK. In addition, there was a substantial variation in acute phase response. Postmortem examinations revealed various erosive lesions on the upper and lower gums, severe hemorrhagic enteritis, particularly of the small intestine, and obvious congestion of the lungs. Histopathological changes revealed an obvious flattening of the intestinal mucosa as well as an enlargement of the villi. In addition to a granuloma in the sub-mucosa, chronic inflammatory cells, primarily lymphocytes, were seen invading the mucosa. It has been determined that the sickness was circulating in the southern region of Iraq and severely afflicted sheep, which might result in significant economic losses owing to the detrimental effects of the virus that causes the disease on the various bodily parts.

Preliminary using oil extract and nano emulsion of Artemisia herba alba compared with albendazole in treatment of artificially infected sheep with Trichostrongylidae.

Preliminary using oil extract and nano emulsion of Artemisia herba alba compared with albendazole in treatment of artificially infected sheep with Trichostrongylidae.

Antimitotic effects of <i>Cysticercus tenuicollis</i> protoscolexes extract at administration to mice and their negative consequences for organism

The purpose of the research is studying of Cysticercus tenuicollis protoscolexes extract effects on cell division at different routes of administration to mice and evaluation of the associated negative effects.Materials and methods. C. tenuicollis were obtained from spontaneously infected sheep in Kabardino-Balkarian Republic. C. tenuicollis protoscolexes were washed, crushed and homogenized. Protein extraction was performed with phosphate buffered saline pH 7.2–7.4. C. tenuicollis extract was administered intraperitoneally and intravenously to mice males at the dose level of 80 μg protein/animal. The control group of mice was intravenously injected with 0.1 ml of saline. At hours 3; 6; 24 and 48 post extract administration mice were euthanized. Bone marrow samples were taken from experimental and control mice for preparation of microscopic preparations to assess mitotic activity in a given cell population. The mitotic index was determined, all stages of mitosis were recorded. At the above time points blood samples were taken from mice to determine the main hematological parameters post intravenous and intraperitoneal administration of C. tenuicollis extract. The main hematological parameters of mice were determined using hematological analyzer MicroCC-20 Plus (High Technology, Inc. (USA)); leukocyte formula – by the generally accepted method. Samples of liver, kidneys, spleen, mesenteric lymph nodes and testes were taken from experimental and control animals for macroscopic and microscopic studies.Results and discussion. C. tenuicollis protoscolices extract leads to inhibition of cell division in the population bone marrow and testes cells in mice when administered intravenously and intraperitoneally at the dose level of 80 μg/animal manifested in accumulation of metaphases and decrease of other stages. At both routes of administration a decrease in leukocyte counts was noted. The observed microscopic changes in testes, spleen and lymph nodes either reflect the consequences of extract antimitotic effect or the immune response to the administration of C. tenuicollis extract.

Biodiversity of helminths in Karakul sheep in the Khorezm Oasis of Uzbekistan

The purpose of the research is to study the helminth fauna and the structure of helminthocenoses of Karakul sheep in the Khorezm Oasis of Uzbekistan.Materials and methods. The material for this study was helminths collected by conventional methods from Karakul sheep from farms of different types in the Khorezm Region. A total of 13 sheep were studied. To identify the dominant helminth infections in sheep, 110 sets of individual organs were examined by the method of partial helminthological dissections. Helminths were collected in slaughterhouses of the Bagat, Kushkupyr, Urgench, Yangiaryk and Shavat Districts of the Khorezm Region. Additionally, the helminths collected from sheep in the Khorezm Region for 2015–2021 were used.Results and discussion. We found that the helminth fauna of Karakul sheep from the Khorezm Oasis was represented by 22 species of the classes Cestoda, Trematoda and Nematoda. Cestodes were represented by 6 species, trematodes by 3 species, and nematodes by 13 species. The faunistic composition of helminths in studied animals was noticeably depleted as compared to other Uzbekistan regions due to natural and ecological conditions of the Khorezm Oasis. The total helminth infection rate in sheep was 100%. The intensity of infection varied depending on the season of the year and the age of sheep and ranged from tens to several thousand specimens. Almost all organs and systems of the animals were found to be ecological niches of the above helminths. Most of helminth species were common to both domesticated and wild ungulates.

Cross-Protection of an Inactivated and a Live-Attenuated Lumpy Skin Disease Virus Vaccine against Sheeppox Virus Infections in Sheep.

Sheeppox virus (SPPV) (genus Capripoxvirus, family Poxviridae) infections are a highly virulent and contagious disease of sheep with a high morbidity and mortality, especially in naïve populations and young animals. For the control of SPPV, homologous and heterologous live-attenuated vaccines are commercially available. In our study, we compared a commercially available live-attenuated lumpy skin disease virus (LSDV) vaccine strain (Lumpyvax) with our recently developed inactivated LSDV vaccine candidate regarding their protective efficacy against SPPV in sheep. Both vaccines were proven to be safe in sheep, and neither clinical signs nor viremia could be detected after vaccination and challenge infection. However, the local replication of the challenge virus in the nasal mucosa of previously vaccinated animals was observed. Because of the advantages of an inactivated vaccine and its heterologous protection efficacy against SPPV in sheep, our inactivated LSDV vaccine candidate is a promising additional tool for the prevention and control of SPPV outbreaks in the future.

Evaluating the Effect of Methanolic Extract of Astragalus effusus Plant on the Hatching of Eggs of Haemonchus Species In Vitro

Introduction: Internal parasites, especially nematode infections of the digestive tract (e.g., different species of Haemonchus), have always been associated with economic losses in sheep production systems in tropical regions. Therefore, the implementation of environmentally benign treatment alternatives is essential for integrated parasite control programs. The current study aimed to evaluate the effect of the methanolic extract of Astragalus effusus plant on the hatching of eggs of Haemonchus species in laboratory conditions. Methods: This study was conducted between 2021 and 2022 in Tabriz, Iran. Haemonchus nematode eggs were extracted from experimentally infected sheep and were exposed to different concentrations (10, 20, 40, 80, and 160 mg/mL) of the methanolic extract of the plant under laboratory conditions. The hatching percentage of Haemonchus eggs was recorded after repeating the experiments five times, and the 50% and 90% inhibitory concentrations of the methanolic extract of the plant (CL50 and CL90) were estimated through regression analysis. Results: Our results demonstrated the effect of the methanolic extract of the A. effusus plant on the hatching of the eggs of Haemonchus species in laboratory conditions with satisfactory results. The effect of different concentrations of the methanolic extract of A. effusus plant from 1% to 8% (10-80 mg/mL) on the hatching of the eggs of Haemonchus species was significant, and 0.5% dimethyl sulfate was considered as the negative control of the group (χ2=0.024, P<0.05). Likewise, the inhibitory effect on the hatching of the eggs of Haemonchus species in a concentration of 16% of the methanolic extract of the A. effusus plant (160 mg/mL) was similar to the effect of albendazole (positive control). Conclusion: In laboratory conditions, the methanolic extract of the A. effusus plant was effective in preventing the hatching of the eggs of Haemonchus species, which is important to guide further studies on the other effective compounds of this plant in all stages of the life of Haemonchus because different species of the A. effusus plant have widely adapted to the geographical and climatic conditions of Iran.

Isolation, identification, molecular typing, and drug resistance of Escherichia coli from infected cattle and sheep in Xinjiang, China.

Escherichia coli infections are common in Xinjiang, a major region of cattle and sheep breeding in China. Therefore, strategies are required to control E. coli. The aim of this study was to investigate the phylogenetic groups, virulence genes, and antibiotic resistance characteristics of E. coli isolates. In this study, 116 tissue samples were collected from the organs of cattle and sheep that were suspected of having E. coli infections between 2015 and 2019. Bacteria in the samples were identified using a biochemical identification system and amplification of 16S rRNA, and the phylogenetic groupings of E. coli isolates were determined by multiplex polymerase chain reactions. In addition, PCR detection and analysis of virulence factors, antibiotic resistance genes, and drug-resistant phenotypes of E. coli isolates were performed. A total of 116 pathogenic E. coli strains belonging to seven phylogenetic groups were isolated, with the majority of isolates in groups A and B1. Among the virulence genes, curli-encoding crl had the highest detection rate of 97.4%, followed by hemolysin-encoding hlyE with the detection rate of 94.82%. Antimicrobial susceptibility test results indicated that the isolates had the highest rates of resistance against streptomycin (81.9%). These characteristics complicate the prevention and treatment of E. coli-related diseases in Xinjiang.

Seroprevalence and associated risk factors of Toxoplasma gondii infection in immuno-compromised women and sheep of Bahir Dar City, Ethiopia

Toxoplasmosis is one of the most significant worldwide zoonotic infections caused by the protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii. It is a major public health and veterinary concern in terms of mortality and morbidity. The objective of this study was to estimate the seroprevalence and assess the potential risk factors of T. gondii infection among pregnant women, HIV/AIDS patients, and sheep in Bahir Dar city, North West Ethiopia. A cross-sectional study design and systematic random sampling techniques were employed. Serum samples were analyzed for anti-T. gondii antibodies using a commercially available Toxo-latex agglutination test kit. Logistic regression analysis was employed to test associations between variables. The seroprevalences of T. gondii infection in the examined pregnant women, HIV/AIDS patients, and sheep were 70.8% (95% confidence interval (CI): 65.1-73.4%), 70% (95% CI: 63.3-76.8%), and 43% (95% CI: 38.5 - 47.4%) respectively. Multivariable logistic analysis showed that T. gondii infection was significantly associated with knowing the zoonotic nature of toxoplasmosis (adjusted Odds ratio [AOR] = 0.197, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.107 - 0.35), eating raw meat (AOR=3.27, 95% CI: 1.89-5.65), and owning a cat (AOR=9.35, 95% CI: 4.00-21.84) in pregnant women and HIV/ AIDS patients. Hence, comprehensive health education about toxoplasmosis, particularly for pregnant women and HIV/AIDS patients, avoiding consumption of uncooked meat, and cat contact for immune-compromised women are of paramount importance.

Small Ruminant Piroplasmosis: High Prevalence of Babesia aktasi n. sp. in Goats in Türkiye.

Small ruminant piroplasmosis is the hemoparasitic infection of sheep and goats caused by Babesia and Theileria species responsible for clinical infections with high mortality outcomes. The disease is transmitted by ixodid ticks and prevalent in the tropical and subtropical regions of the world, including Türkiye. A prevalence survey, using molecular methods, is conducted in this study to determine the frequency of newly defined Babesia aktasi n. sp. and other tick-borne piroplasm species in small ruminants in Turkiye. A total of 640 blood samples from sheep (n = 137) and goats (n = 503) were analyzed by nested PCR-based reverse line blot (RLB) hybridization. The results show that 32.3% (207/640) of apparently healthy, small ruminants are infected with three Theileria and two Babesia species. Babesia aktasi n. sp. was the most prevalent species in goats, with 22.5% of samples being positive, followed by B. ovis (4%), T. ovis (2.8%), T. annulata (2.6%), and Theileria sp. (0.6%). None of the sheep samples were positive for Babesia aktasi n. sp.; however, 51.8% were infected with T. ovis. In conclusion, the findings reveal that B. aktasi n. sp. is highly prevalent in goats, but absent in sheep. In future studies, experimental infections will determine whether B. aktasi n. sp. is infectious to sheep, as well as its pathogenicity in small ruminants.

Identification, molecular characterization and risk factors of Theileria infection among sheep: a first comprehensive report from North India

The present study was aimed at the identification, molecular characterization, and risk factor assessment of Theileria infection among sheep of Haryana province, north India. A total of 402 blood samples were collected from three different climatic zones of Haryana from March 2020 to September 2021. Light microscopy of blood smears revealed Theileria spp. infection in 47.26% (n = 190), while 60.94% (n = 245) of blood samples were positive using nested PCR. Extensive molecular characterization of Theileria infection using four pairs of species-specific primers indicated the dominance of T. ovis (29.1%) followed by T. lestoquardi (12.69%), T. luwenshuni (5.97%) and T. annulata (1.49%). Mixed infection was detected in 11.69% of cases. Bidirectional sequencing and phylogeny further confirmed the presence of these four Theileria spp. in the investigated area under study. Hematology indicated a significant (p < 0.01) reduction in various haematological indices of animals infected with T. luwenshuni and T. lestoquardi compared to the healthy control group. Risk factors like age, sex, and zone were significantly associated with Theileria infection in sheep. The present investigation depicts the first comprehensive molecular report of ovine Theileria spp., which warrants further study to develop suitable control strategies against these haemoparasitic infections.

The emergence of novel Iranian variants in sheeppox and goatpox viral envelope proteins with remarkably altered putative binding affinities with the host receptor.

The outbreak of Sheep and goat pox (SGP) viral infections have increasingly been reported despite vaccinating the majority of sheep populations in Iran. The objective of this study was to predict the impacts of the SGP P32/envelope variations on the binding with host receptors as a candidate tool to assess this outbreak. The targeted gene was amplified in a total of 101 viral samples, and the PCR products were subjected to Sanger sequencing. The polymorphism and phylogenetic interactions of the identified variants were assessed. Molecular docking was performed between the identified P32 variants and the host receptor and the effects of these variants were evaluated. Eighteen variations were identified in the investigated P32 gene with variable silent and missense effects on the envelope protein. Five groups (G1-G5) of amino acid variations were identified. While there were no amino acid variations in the G1 (wild-type) viral protein, G2, G3, G4, and G5 proteins had seven, nine, twelve, and fourteen SNPs, respectively. Based on the observed amino acid substitutions, multiple distinct phylogenetic places were occupied from the identified viral groups. Dramatic alterations were identified between G2, G4, and G5 variants with their proteoglycan receptor, while the highest binding was revealed between goatpox G5 variant with the same receptor. It was suggested that the higher severity of goatpox viral infection originated from its higher affinity to bind with its cognate receptor. This firm binding may be explained by the observed higher severity of the SGP cases from which G5 samples were isolated.

P-020 The validation of a PCR method for Streptococcus dysgalactiae infection in sheep and its application for on-farm disease transmission studies

P-020 The validation of a PCR method for Streptococcus dysgalactiae infection in sheep and its application for on-farm disease transmission studies

Genetic Phylocomparative Analysis of B2L, F1L Genes in Orf Virus Isolated from Felid Infected Sheep

Contagious ecthyma virus Large, oval, double-stranded DNA viruses from the family Poxviridae they are distinct from other poxviruses due to their unusual spiral coat. Orf virus encoded highly conserved F1L gene, B2L gene, which codes for highly immunogenic envelope protein. Orf lesions were observed on the upper and lower lips, upper and/or lower eyelids, and around the mouth and nose of sheep. This study evaluated the histology and genetics of Orf virus in AL-Qadisyah sheep infected with infectious ecthyma. Positive histology is defined by the presence of subcorneal pustules, hydropic degeneration of necrotic keratinocytes, and epidermal hyperplasia with pronounced rete ridges. Samples were fixed in paraffin and sectioned into 5m slices. PCR on DNA-extracted samples was positive for both the B2L and F1L genes. Four positive samples were sequenced and recorded in GeneBank, and phylogenetic analysis was performed. Histopathology and clinical symptoms can aid in the diagnosis of infectious ecthyma rapidly and affordably, whereas PCR distinguishes between identical diseases in endemic regions. Analyzing the divergence between the inferred amino acid sequences of the incomplete B2L gene in different strains from Iraq OK336711.1, OK336710.1, and other Indians, we found that two locations contain different amino acid changes, resulting in a nucleotide and amino acid identity of 97.8% and 97.6%, respectively. The F1L envelope protein of the Iraqi strain OK330734.1 was comparable to those of China and India, while the envelope protein of the Italian strain OK330733.1 was identical to that of Italy.

Seroprevalence of Coxiella burnetii in sheep and goats in the Istrian Region, Croatia

A seroepidemiological study was conducted on the presence of Coxiella burnetii (C. burnetii) antibodies in sheep and goats in Istria, the largest peninsula in Croatia. Random blood samples were taken from 634 sheep and goats at different localities throughout the region. The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of C. burnetii infection in sheep and goats, which represent the most important reservoir of infection in humans. C. burnetii antibody detection was performed by ELISA (LSIVet Ruminant Q Fever-Serum/Milk). Seroprevalence of C. burnetii was proven in 6.2% of sheep and 3.5% of goats. Larger herds, poor hygienic conditions on farms, a higher presence of goats in a restricted area, and the northern part of Istria proved to be significant risk factors for the seropositivity of animals.The southern part of Istria is known to have endemic Q fever, but no studies have been carried out so far to explore this issue. To gain a more complete epidemiological picture of Q fever in Istria, studies in humans, especially those professionally exposed to C. burnetii infection, should be performed.

The effect of weaning age on animal performance in lambs exposed to naturally acquired nematode infections

The effects of mixed gastrointestinal nematode (GIN) infections on animal growth and post-weaning activity patterns were investigated in grazing intact ram lambs when naturally exposed to two different infection levels and weaned at different ages. Ewes and their twin-born lambs were turned-out to graze in two permanent pasture enclosures naturally contaminated with GIN the previous year. Ewes and lambs in the low parasite exposure group (LP) were drenched before turn-out and at weaning, respectively, with 0.2 mg ivermectin per kg body weight, whereas those in the high parasite exposure group (HP) were left untreated. Two weaning ages were applied, early weaning (EW) (10 weeks) and late weaning (LW) (14 weeks), respectively. The lambs were then allocated to one out of four groups based on parasite exposure level and weaning age (EW-HP, n = 12; LW-HP, n = 11; EW-LP, n = 13; LW-LP, n = 13). Body weight gain (BWG) and faecal egg counts (FEC) were monitored, in all groups, from the day of early weaning and every four weeks, for 10 weeks. In addition, nematode composition was determined using droplet digital PCR. Activity patterns measured as Motion Index (MI; the absolute value of the 3D acceleration) and lying time were monitored continuously from the day of weaning until four weeks post-weaning using IceQube® sensors. Statistical analyses were performed in RStudio, using mixed models with repeated measures. BWG was 11% lower in EW-HP compared with EW-LP (P = 0.0079) and 12% lower compared with LW-HP (P = 0.018), respectively. In contrast, no difference in BWG was observed between LW-HP and LW-LP (P = 0.97). The average EPG was higher in EW-HP compared with EW-LP (P < 0.001), as well as in EW-HP compared with LW-HP (P = 0.021), and LW-HP compared with LW-LP (P = 0.0022). The molecular investigation showed that animals in LW-HP had a higher proportion of Haemonchus contortus compared with EW-HP. MI was 19% lower in EW-HP compared with EW-LP (P = 0.0004). Daily lying time was 15% shorter in EW-HP compared with EW-LP (P = 0.0070). In contrast, no difference in MI (P = 0.13) and lying time (P = 0.99) between LW-HP and LW-LP was observed. The results suggest that a delayed weaning age may reduce the adverse effects of GIN infection on BWG. Contrarily, an earlier weaning age may reduce the risk of H. contortus infection in lambs. Moreover, the results demonstrates a potential use of automated behaviour recordings as a diagnostic tool for the detection of nematode infections in sheep.

Identifying hepatic genes regulating the ovine response to gastrointestinal nematodes using RNA-Sequencing.

Gastrointestinal nematode (GIN) infections are considered the most important disease of grazing sheep and due to increasing anthelmintic resistance, chemical control alone is inadequate. Resistance to Gastrointestinal nematode infection is a heritable trait, and through natural selection many sheep breeds have higher resistance. Studying the transcriptome from GIN-exposed and GIN-unexposed sheep using RNA-Sequencing technology can provide measurements of transcript levels associated with the host response to Gastrointestinal nematode infection, and these transcripts may harbor genetic markers that can be used in selective breeding programs to enhance disease resistance. The objective of this study was to compare liver transcriptomes of sheep naturally exposed to Gastrointestinal nematode s, with either high or low parasite burdens, to GIN-unexposed control sheep in order to identify key regulator genes and biological processes associated with Gastrointestinal nematode infection. Differential gene expression analysis revealed no significant differentially expressed genes (DEG) between sheep with a high or low parasite burden (p-value ≤0.01; False Discovery Rate (FDR) ≤ 0.05; and Fold-Change (FC) of > ±2). However, when compared to the control group, low parasite burden sheep showed 146 differentially expressed genes (64 upregulated and 82 downregulated in the low parasite burden group relative to the control), and high parasite burden sheep showed 159 differentially expressed genes (57 upregulated and 102 downregulated in the low parasite burden group relative to the control) (p-value ≤0.01; FDR ≤0.05; and FC of > ±2). Among these two lists of significant differentially expressed genes, 86 differentially expressed genes (34 upregulated, 52 downregulated in the parasited group relative to the control) were found in common between the two parasite burden groups compared to the control (GIN-unexposed sheep). Functional analysis of these significant 86 differentially expressed genes found upregulated genes involved in immune response and downregulated genes involved in lipid metabolism. Results of this study offer insight into the liver transcriptome during natural Gastrointestinal nematode exposure that helps provide a better understanding of the key regulator genes involved in Gastrointestinal nematode infection in sheep.

Prevalence of Some Infections in Liver and Lung of Slaughtered Ruminants in Koya Abattoir, Erbil, Iraq

This study was conducted at the slaughterhouses of Koya / Erbil governorate from (January to December 2013) on 15919 slaughtered ruminants to investigate hydatid cysts, necrosis, fascioliasis, pneumonia, and its frequency. The results showed height significant differences (P&lt;0.01) between different months and between different infections in both sheep and cattle liver, while the differences were insignificant in goats, whereas the differences were significant regarding lung infections in sheep, goats and cattle. The highest percentage of liver hydatid cyst was recorded in sheep especially in February (6.54%) followed by cattle in March (2.17%) and goat in September (0.22%). The highest percentage of liver necrosis was recorded in sheep especially in October (3.43%) followed by cattle in June (1.46%) and goat in July (0.26%). The highest percentage of liver fascioliasis was record in cattle especially in June (2.30%) followed by sheep in March (0.98%) but the goat had no infection throughout the year. The highest percentage of lung hydatid cyst was record in sheep followed by cattle especially in November (17.54 and 10.17%) respectively, followed by goat in September (0.22%). These records was continue for pneumonia, as highest percentage was recorded in sheep then cattle in October (19.71 and 10.22%) followed by goat in February (2.38%).

Time Series Model for Forecasting the Prevalence of Some Important Parasitic Infections in Slaughtered Sheep in North-Central Iran

Uncontrolled parasitic infections in livestock can increase the potential risk of transmission between human societies. Owing to the socioeconomic challenges of these diseases in slaughtered sheep, the current study aimed to forecast the prevalence of these infections in a central slaughterhouse in Alborz Province, north-central Iran. Data from 2009 to 2018 on parasitic infections in slaughtered sheep presented at a slaughterhouse were compiled and the prevalence of these diseases was computed. The prevalence has been considered as a time series and afterward, RStudio software using the best-fitted ARIMA model was applied to forecast the monthly variation in prevalence rates. From 2009 to 2018, a total of 1,339,196 sheep were slaughtered in the studied slaughterhouse. The Iranian Afshari breed was the most slaughtered sheep and, a total of 77.6% of these animals were raised under traditional farming system. In addition to the Alborz province, slaughtered sheep were brought from five other provinces, including Zanjan, Qazvin, Qom, Kurdistan, and East Azerbaijan. The highest and lowest total prevalence of studied parasitic zoonoses in slaughtered livestock were cystic echinococcosis (12.76%) and Taenia ovis infection (0.01%), respectively. An approximate stationary trend for fascioliasis and CE and a mild decreasing trend for dicrocoeliasis and sarcocystosis has been forecasted for the next 10 years. Forecasting the prevalence of T. ovis infection showed that without implementing control strategies, this infection would be increased in the years ahead. The current study has demonstrated for the first time the predicting of some important parasitic infections in sheep in Iran. The results provide helpful data for authorities for controlling these diseases in the frontline of meat production. Vast and in-depth forecasting investigations is required to find evidence-based data about these infections for entire the country of Iran.

Natural Co-Exposure to Borrelia burgdorferi s.l. and Anaplasma phagocytophilum: Unraveling the Hematological Profile in Sheep.

The occurrence of co-infected hosts and questing ticks with more than one tick-borne pathogen-as in the case of Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato-is expected in endemic regions. Their synergy-in terms of pathogenesis and disease severity-has been suggested previously in humans. Limited data exist on the clinicopathological alterations in co-infected sheep. In this study, we investigated the impact of A. phagocytophilum and B. burgdorferi s.l. seropositivity, alone and in combination, on the hematological parameters of naturally infected sheep. A complete blood count was performed, and indirect immunofluorescence assays were used to detect IgG antibodies against A. phagocytophilum and IgG and IgM antibodies against B. burgdorferi s.l. Single natural exposure to B. burgdorferi s.l. was characterized by low Packed Cell Volume (PCV) values and platelet (PLT) counts, while single exposure to A. phagocytophilum was characterized by low PCV values, low white blood cell (WBC) counts, and an increased risk for leukopenia and neutropenia. Co-exposure resulted in the most severe blood abnormalities; all the blood parameters decreased, and the sheep presented an increased risk for anemia. Our study showed that natural co-exposure to A. phagocytophilum and B. burgdorferi s.l. in sheep leads to more severe blood abnormalities and enhances the pathogenic processes. More studies are needed to clarify the possible background mechanisms.

Some haematological and biochemical parameters assessments in sheep infection by Haemonchus contortus

The study was conducted on (100) sheep naturally infested with Haemonchus contortus, (1-3 years old), in Tikrit city, from ist January 2014 to 31th May 2014. Affected sheep exhibited clinical signs included, emaciation, weakness, pale mucous membranes, rough, easily detached and lusterless coat. Ten ml of blood samples were collected from the jugular vein of all the sheep's using disposable syringes, then take 2.5 ml from blood sample was used to determine CBC the Red blood cells (RBC), white blood cells (WBC) , Haemoglobin estimation (Hb), Packed cells Volume (PCV). The study showed reduction in RBC, hemoglobin, hematocrit and neutrophils (4.7±0.68), (6±0.74), (18±0.19), and (20±0.73) respectively. And reveled leukocytosis; Lymphocyte, eosinophil's and monocyte (11.6± 0.41), (65± 0.51), (10± 0.64) and (5± 0.29) respectively in infected sheep. and the remind samples were centrifuged at 3000 rpm for 10 minute and serum was separated and stored at -20 °c until used for measure the biochemical change by use spectrophotometer. The results showed a significant decrease (P &lt; 0.05) in the rates of total protein concentration, albumin , iron, and zinc (5.02± 0.59 g/dl), (1.7 ± 0.45g/dl), (89.3 ± 12.41 µg/dl), (42.37± 16.22 µg/dl) respectively in the serum of infected sheep according the compared with normal sheep.