Ultrasonography for the detection of pregnancy and study of embryonic and fetal development in camels, buffaloes, and sheep: Techniques, equations, and limitations.

New technologies for detecting pregnancy shortly after mating/insemination and identifying gestational age are essential for speeding up the reproductive cycle and ensuring high reproductive efficiency in livestock farming. Ultrasonography can successfully identify pregnancy and determine gestational age in many domestic animals. On the other hand, many herds of camel and buffalo and flocks of sheep are aware of the day of service, making it difficult to appropriately manage pregnant animals. This study provides a review of the literature on various techniques for ultrasonographically diagnosing pregnancy in camels, buffaloes, and sheep, focusing on the most appropriate times to use each technique, the earliest opportunity to diagnose pregnancy, and the possibility of using various parts of the fetus to create mathematical equations to determine gestational age. Some limitations of ultrasonography in pregnancy diagnosis were identified and significant pregnancy events in dromedaries were discussed, including left-horn and twin pregnancies. The data presented here will prove essential for researchers, farmers, and countries that rely heavily on these animals for providing meat, milk, cosmetics, and other animal products to enhance reproduction and production efficiency.

Clinical and subclinical endometritis in dromedary camels: An overview of definition and clinical presentation, etiopathogenesis, diagnostic biomarkers, and treatment protocols.

The current review collected and analyzed research on clinical endometritis (CE) and subclinical endometritis (SCE) in dromedary camels in terms of definition and clinical presentation, etiopathogenesis, diagnostic biomarkers, and treatment protocols. CE is characterized by uterine inflammation with abnormal vaginal discharges, while SCE comprises uterine inflammation with no clinical signs and is described as the infiltration of polymorphnuclear cells into the endometrium. CE is the prevalent clinical finding of barren female dromedaries (18-60 %). SCE has been detected in 9.9 % of infertile female dromedaries. CE and SCE are observed mainly in repeat breeding females. Unhygienic reproductive management, unsanitary dealings during parturition, and postpartum problems are major risk factors. Environmental stress, immunodeficiency, mucus abrasion, or the presence of other opportunistic microbes are predisposing factors. Trueperella pyogenes, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Streptococcus spp., and Staphylococcus spp. are the major uterine isolates obtained from females with CE, while Bacillus spp., Staphylococcus spp., and Candida albicans are the most frequent isolates of SCE. CE and SCE reveal biomarker changes that could aid in the diagnosis of this common reproductive disorder. Only a few treatment protocols for CE and SCE have been tried and proven to work in camel practice. However, there is room for the new, challenging treatment programs proposed in this review. This review also provides a compilation that may be of use to future research and to those working in the field of camel reproduction.

Expression of Hormones, Cytokines, and Antioxidants in Heat-Stressed Subfertile Female Dromedaries.

The prevailing hot climate imposes heavy burdens on the productivity of the camel, goat, and sheep herds raised in the Gulf desert. Due to the lack of a reliable indicator for the various subfertility statuses in camel females, this study aimed to investigate the expression of inhibin, TGFά, ILß, FSH, sex and metabolic hormones, and antioxidants for the fertility status in camel females. Eighty-two subfertile and five fertile females were admitted to the university clinic with the complaint of repeat breeding with failed conception. The animal's genital tracts were examined for reproductive soundness. Blood samples were withdrawn for hormonal, cytokines, and antioxidants determinations. Subfertile females were categorized into six groups; endometritis (EN, 28), inactive ovaries (IO, 20), ovarian hydrobursitis (BU, 19), vaginal adhesions (VA, 7), salpingitis (SA, 4), and cervicitis (CE, 4). Results revealed a significant increase in inhibin in all groups compared to control (68.2, 66.4, 61.8. 58.8, 58.3, 55.8, and 36 pg/mL, in CE, VA, IO, BU, EN, SA, and CON, respectively). TGFά, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), and progesterone were not different among groups, whereas IL-ß differed among groups. FSH, estradiol, nitrous oxide, and glutathione were higher in CON compared with other groups. In conclusion, reproductive failures in camel females are reflected in the imbalances of endocrine, cytokines, and antioxidants bio-indicators.

First report on the isolation of Chlamydia abortus from female dromedary camels with ovarian hydrobursitis.

This study sought to isolate Chlamydia abortus (C. abortus) from camels with ovarian hydrobursitis (OVHB). To accomplish this goal, bursal tissue (n = 5) and bursal fluid (n = 6) samples were collected from 11 female dromedary camels with unilateral OVHB. A quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) was used for the preliminary detection of C. abortus in the infected samples. For the purpose of isolation, the prepared samples were inoculated into embryonated chicken eggs. Giemsa, Gimenez, and direct immunofluorescence (DIF) staining were used to detect any chlamydial inclusions in the infected yolk sacs. A second qPCR was then performed on the infected yolk sacs. The C. abortus gene was detected in 83.8% of the infected bursal tissue and bursal fluid samples. All the yolk sac smears treated with Giemsa, Gimenez, and DIF staining revealed intracytoplasmic inclusion bodies. Moreover, hemorrhagic patches, massive congestion, macerated yolk sacs, and dwarfism were observed in the infected chicken embryos. The C. abortus gene was also found in 63.6% of the infected yolk sacs. In conclusion, this is the first report of C. abortus isolation from female dromedary camels with OVHB, which represents a key step toward developing a practical vaccine and avoiding fertility problems in female camels.

Effect of Zinc, Selenium, and Vitamin E Administration on Semen Quality and Fertility of Male Dromedary Camels with Impotentia Generandi.

This study aimed to investigate the effect of zinc (Zn), selenium (Se), and vitamin E (Vit E) administration on semen quality and fertility in male dromedary camels with impotentia generandi (IG, post-coital infertility). Factors that may affect response to treatment were investigated. Thirty-three IG-affected and five fertile camels were included. Case history was obtained, and breeding sound examination was performed. Semen was collected using electroejaculation. IG-camels were classified according to initial sperm count, body condition score, age, duration of infertility, IG-type, and testicular size. IG-camels were treated with a combination of intramuscular injections of Vit E (α-tocopherol acetate, 1 mg/kg bw) and Se (sodium selenite, 0.088 mg/kg bw) once every week for three successive weeks and by daily oral administration of 360 mg of zinc gluconate for 5 successive weeks. Semen quality was estimated before and after treatment. IG-treated camels were allowed to mate females in estrus, and conception rates were calculated. The results showed that sperm cell concentration, sperm motility, and viability significantly increased, while sperm abnormality significantly decreased after treatment (P < 0.01). Positive correlations were observed between initial sperm cell count and post-treated sperm count (P = 0.001), sperm motility (P = 0.01), and viability (P = 0.002). Other variables and their interactions did not affect response to treatment. Conception rates improved after treatment. In conclusion, Zn, Se, and Vit E administration improved semen quality and fertility in male dromedary camels with impotentia generandi. Initial sperm count can be used to predict the degree of camel response to treatment.

Relationships among the corpus luteum, follicles and conceptus in sheep.

This study aimed to investigate the intra- and interovarian relationships among the corpus luteum (CL), the largest follicle (LF) and follicular population in non-pregnant and between the conceptus and ovarian structures in pregnant ewes. In experiment 1, the follicular and luteal structures were examined in 538 reproductive systems of non-pregnant Awassi ewes. The follicular population was categorised into small (SF), medium (MF) and large (LF) groups. Inter-relationships between CL and follicular population and between LF and subordinate follicles were determined. In experiment 2, the location and number of conceptuses were identified and correlated with the ovarian structures in 58 reproductive systems of pregnant ewes. Effects of pregnancy status, stage of pregnancy, pregnancy side and conceptual number on follicular population were determined. The results showed that the right ovary was more active than the left ovary. CL had intraovarian positive effect on the number of medium and large follicles. LF had no local suppressive effect on the subordinate follicles. Side and stage of pregnancy and the conceptual number did not affect the follicular population. Accordingly, it can be concluded that the LF has no local suppressive effect on the subordinate follicles. The CL has intraovarian positive effect on the follicular population. Follicular population does not show remarkable changes during the first term of pregnancy. The present study probably provides information which may help in the understanding of the ovarian dynamics during pregnancy in sheep.

Ovary and ovarian bursa in dromedary camels: Clinical relevance of the topographical features.

This study aimed to associate ovarian characteristics with the efficiency of clinical examination and occurrence of genital diseases in dromedary camels. The reproductive tract of 870 female camels was examined through standard transrectal palpation and by ultrasonography during the breeding season. The ovaries were examined for structures and dimensions. The follicles were categorized according to size, the thickness of the wall and contents. Follicle aspiration was carried out from females with overgrown follicles (OVGF, n = 127), and the obtained follicular fluids were examined. At the slaughterhouse, 100 genital tracts were examined in situ and after dissection. Ovarian bursae were examined for patency and the presence of fluid (ovarian hydrobursitis, OVHB). Risks associated with the development of OVGF and OVHB were identified by the logistic regression. The results showed that, due to topographical difference, the right ovary was more accessible at rectal palpation than the left ovary (98.9% vs. 96.1%, p = .0005). Time needed for rectal palpation of the right ovary was shorter than the left ovary (25.1 ± 25 s vs. 34.6 ± 34.5 s, p = .03). Significant relationships were found between OVGF and OVHB (Odds ratio = 10.5, p = .001), OVGF and clinical endometritis (Odds ratio = 21.1, p = .001), OVGF and vaginal adhesion (Odds ratio = 4.4, p = .03), and OVHB and clinical endometritis (Odds ratio = 11.3, p = .001). Ultrasonographic examination was imperative for the differentiation between active corpus luteum, old non-active corpus luteum and small luteinized follicle. In conclusion, anatomical arrangement of the ovary and ovarian bursa in dromedary camels affects the likelihood of their accessibility during clinical examination and predisposes to unusual genital disorders.

Cadmium in Seminal Plasma of Fertile and Infertile Male Dromedary Camels.

The objective of this study was to investigate the cadmium (Cd) profile in seminal plasma of male dromedary camel with impotentia generandi (post-coital infertility, IG group, n = 14) in comparison with known fertile males (FERT group, n = 5). Andrological examination was carried out for all animals. Semen was collected with electroejaculation and examined for volume, concentration, motility, viability, and abnormality. Seminal fluid was harvested after centrifugation and analyzed for Cd using atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Results showed that sperm concentration, motility, and viability were higher, while sperm abnormality was lower in IG group than in FERT group (P < 0.05). Cd was higher in seminal plasma of IG group than in FERT group (P = 0.04). Negative correlation was found between Cd concentration and sperm concentration (r = - 0.511, P = 0.04). There was also a tendency for negative correlation between Cd concentration and the testicular size (r = - 0.455, P = 0.05). In conclusion, Cd may be one of factors causing infertility in male dromedary camels.

Management strategies, reproductive performance and causes of infertility in sheep flocks in the central region of Saudi Arabia.

The objectives of this study were to identify the management strategies, reproductive characteristics, and causes of the infertility in sheep flocks in the central region of Saudi Arabia. Reproductive data were collected from 43 Awassi flocks containing 12,012 heads and 16 Najdi flocks having 2867 heads. Reproductive tracts of females culled from breeding from these flocks (Awassi, n = 127; Najdi, n = 32) were collected from slaughterhouses to detect the common pathological lesions. The results showed that most flocks contained large number of animals housed mainly in shelters and involved small number of workers. Few managers had high school education and very few farms relied on breeding records, regular veterinary visits, and the use of modern reproductive techniques. Sheep flocks with large number of animals; low-educated and less-experienced managers showed higher stillbirth rate than other flocks (P = 0.02). Sheep housed in shelter demonstrated greater lambing rate than sheep managed between grazing and shelter systems (P = 0.03). Ewes bred seasonally had greater lambing rate than those bred all year (P = 0.03). Non-functioning ovaries, pyometra, and ovarian-bursal adhesion were the common findings in the culled barren ewes. In conclusion, reproductive efficiency of sheep in the central area of Saudi Arabia could be improved by reforming some management approaches, justifying workers/animals ratio, instructing sheep breeders, and controlling genital diseases.

Scrotal enlargement in rams and bucks in Qassim region, central of Saudi Arabia: clinical and ultrasonographic findings and seroprevalence of brucellosis.

The aim of this study was to clarify the causes of scrotal enlargement in rams and bucks in Qassim region of Saudi Arabia. Enlarged scrotal contents of rams and bucks (n = 153) were examined by visual inspection, palpation, and ultrasonography. Blood samples were obtained and tested for Brucella sp. infection. Clinical and ultrasonographic findings showed that scrotal enlargement was mainly associated with orchitis, peri-orchitis, and epididymitis. Miscellaneous findings were scrotal hernia, scrotal hematoma, and hydrocele. The frequencies of orchitis, peri-orchitis, and epididymitis were 47.4, 21.1, and 14.1% in Awassi rams; 54.5, 21.7, and 8.7% in Najdi rams; 52.3, 20.5, and 9.1% in Ardi bucks; and 50, 16.7, and 16.7% in Damascus bucks, respectively. Orchitis was associated with no-abscess formation (23%), single-abscess formation (15.4%), and multiple-abscesses formation (61.6%). Peri-orchitis was characterized by hard consistency, atrophy of the testes, and extensive connective tissue formation. Epididymitis was observed mainly at the tail of the epididymis (82.4%) but rarely at the head (17.6%). Epididymitis was associated in many cases with abscessation (70.6%). Males with orchitis, peri-orchitis, and epididymitis were positive for Brucella melitensis and Brucella ovis in the frequency of 21.3% and 48.8%, respectively. In conclusion, scrotal enlargement in rams and bucks in Qassim region is caused mainly by inflammation of the testis and/or epididymis and associated tremendously with brucellosis seropositivity.

Impotentia generandi in male dromedary camels: heavy metal and trace element profiles and their relations to clinical findings and semen quality.

The aim of this study was to investigate the profiles of cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), selenium (Se), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), molybdenum (Mo), iron (Fe), and manganese (Mn) in serum of dromedary camels with impotentia generandi and their associations with the clinical findings and semen analysis data. Sixteen male dromedary camels with impotentia generandi (IG group) and 5 fertile camels (FERT group) were used. The external and internal genital organs were examined using visual inspection, palpation, and ultrasonography. Semen was collected by electroejaculation and examined for volume, count, motility, viability, and abnormality. Blood was collected from all camels and serum was harvested. All serum samples were digested by concentrated acids and analyzed for heavy metals and trace elements by flame emission atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Results showed that the mean heavy metal and trace element concentrations in serum were in the following descending order Fe > Zn > Cu > Cd > Mo > Se > Mn > Pb. Cd was higher in IG than in FERT males (P = 0.02). Se was greater in FERT than in IG groups (P = 0.003). Zn was higher in in FERT than in IG groups (P = 0.001). There were positive correlations between Zn and sperm count (r = 0.59, P = 0.005) and sperm motility (r = 0.57, P = 0.005) and a tendency for negative correlation between Zn and sperm abnormalities (r = - 0.44, P = 0.05). In conclusion, Cd might be implicated as a cause of infertility in male camels. Deficiencies of Se and Zn may also have adverse impacts on male camel reproduction.

Impotentia generandi in male dromedary camels: FSH, LH and testosterone profiles and their association with clinical findings and semen analysis data.

Impotentia generandi (IG) is a major problem in male dromedary camels. The objective of this research was to characterize the FSH, LH and testosterone profiles and their association with clinical findings and semen characteristics in IG-male dromedaries. Semen was collected by electroejaculation from camels with IG (n = 17) and from a fertile group (FERT, n = 5) and was evaluated for motility, viability, abnormality and concentration. According to their sperm counts, the IG-camels were categorized into three groups: those with normal sperm concentration (IG-NC, n = 8), those with oligospermia (IG-OLIGO, n = 5) and those with azoospermia (IG-AZOO, n = 4). Jugular blood was collected from all camels for analysis of FSH, LH and testosterone (T) concentrations. Results showed that the FSH, LH and T levels were higher in the IG-OLIGO and IG-AZOO groups than in the FERT and IG-NC groups (P < 0.05). The IG-camels with small testes showed lower sperm counts (P < 0.01) and greater FSH and T levels (P < 0.05) than the IG-camels with normal-sized testes. Inverse relationships were observed between the sperm counts and both the FSH and the LH levels (P < 0.05). In conclusion, the IG dromedary camels with oligo- and azoospermia were characterized by high serum levels of FSH, LH and T, indicating a condition of spermatogenic failure. In addition, inverse correlations were observed between these hormones and testicular size and sperm count.

A retrospective study on clinical findings of 7300 cases (2007-2014) of barren female dromedaries.

The objective of this study was to investigate the clinical findings in barren female dromedaries examined for different complaints. Female camels were examined for repeat breeding with regular heat interval (RB-R, n = 5444), refused mating (RM, n = 1299), repeat breeding with long heat interval (RB-L, n = 489), difficulties or bleeding during mating (DM, n = 53), and for manifestation of male-like behavior (MB, n = 15). The genital tracts of all females were evaluated using transrectal palpation, ultrasonography, and exploration of the vagina. Cervical swabs were obtained for bacteriologic examination. Clinical endometritis, ovarian hydrobursitis, and vaginal adhesions were the main clinical findings in the female camels examined for RB-R, RM, and RB-L, respectively. Parity affected the frequency of occurrence of these findings. The incidences of clinical endometritis, ovarian hydrobursitis, and vaginal adhesions in nullipara and multipara were 28% versus 32.3% (P = 0.004), 37.1% versus 23.7% (P = 0.001), and 5.7% versus 18.3% (P = 0.001), respectively. Vaginal adhesions, persistent hymen, pelvic abscess, and vulvar atresia were the clinical findings in the female camels presented due to bleeding at mating or with a history of an incomplete intromission of the penis. The male-like behavior was associated with an enlargement of the clitoris and narrowing of the vulva and vagina. Trueperella pyogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumonia, Streptococcus zooepidemicus, and ß-hemolytic Streptococcus were isolated from females presented for repeat breeding syndrome. In conclusion, clinical endometritis, ovarian hydrobursitis, and vaginal adhesions were the main clinical findings in barren female dromedaries. Parity affected the frequency of the clinical findings.

Transabdominal ultrasonography for pregnancy diagnosis and estimation of gestational age in dromedary camels.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the use of transabdominal ultrasonography as a method for pregnancy diagnosis and establish some foetal biometrics guidelines of pregnancy staging. Transabdominal ultrasonography was performed weekly on six pregnant camels from the 4th to the 19th week and at 2-week intervals from the 20th to the 52nd week of gestation. Six areas were selected for examination: caudal abdominal (CAA), inside the thigh, above the base of the udder; middle abdominal (MIA), from the base of the udder to the umbilicus; and cranial abdominal (CRA), from the umbilicus to the xiphoid cartilage. Several foetal parameters including orbital diameter (ORD), biparietal diameter (BPD), abdominal diameter (ABD), chest depth (CHD) and ruminal diameter (RUD) were measured using standardized scan plans. The relationships between the gestational age and the foetal parameters were evaluated. From the 6th to the 12th week, the conceptus was always observed through the left CAA approach. Between the 13th and 27th week, the foetus was entirely visualized by the MIA examination. From the 28th to the 52nd week, the conceptus was mainly detected through the left CRA approach. The foetal parameters were measured frequently during mid- and late gestation. All regression and correlation coefficients were highly significant (p < 0.0001). In conclusion, transabdominal ultrasonography was shown to be a reliable technique for pregnancy diagnosis and estimation of gestational age in dromedary camels.

The postpartum period in dromedary camels: uterine involution, ovarian activity, hormonal changes, and response to GnRH treatment.

The aim of the present study was to investigate the time for complete uterine involution and resumption of ovarian activity in postpartum dromedary camels, relative to hormonal changes. A total of six females were examined by ultrasonography twice weekly starting 3d after parturition. GnRH was administered when the follicles reached ≥0.9cm diameter. Blood samples were collected for hormonal analysis. Results revealed that the mean intervals for complete involution of the previously gravid horn, non-gravid horn, and cervix were 34.33±3.9, 29.01±0.81, and 28.71±1.51d, respectively. After GnRH treatment (Days 17-34), five of the six camels had ovulated. The corpus luteum was detected by Day 4.1±1.6 after GnRH treatment and lasted for 6±1.1d. Serum progesterone (P4) was basal and increased only after GnRH treatment. Serum estradiol 17-ß (E2) peaked twice: when a large follicle was detected and 8.5±2.8d post-GnRH treatment. The serum FSH pattern was biphasic, with two peaks just before the recruitment of small follicles and 4.67±4.1d after GnRH treatment. The five ovulating females were mated; two conceived after the first service and three after the second service. The interval from calving to conception was 78.16±3.71d. It was concluded that in dromedary camels, involution of the uterus is completed by the 5th week postpartum, these camels are highly responsive to early GnRH treatment, and they can be mated between the 5th and 6th week after parturition with encouraging conception rates.

Influence of stimulation by electroejaculation on myocardial function, acid-base and electrolyte status, and hematobiochemical profiles in male dromedary camels.

This study was carried out to evaluate the effect of electroejaculation (EEJ) on myocardial function, acid-base balance, and hematobiochemical profiles in male dromedary camels. Twenty sexually mature, apparently healthy male camels were assigned to EEJ. Parallel, eight naturally mated male camels were enrolled as a control group. Three blood samples were collected from each camel: just before (T0), directly after (T1), and 24 hours after (T2) EEJ or natural mating. The serum concentrations of the cardiac biomarker troponin I (cTnI), blood gas parameters, and hematobiochemical profiles were determined. Nineteen camels were ejaculated by the end of the second circuit and one by the end of the first circuit. In both groups, the mean heart and respiratory rates had increased significantly immediately after the procedure, but returned to normal values 24 hours after the procedure. The mean serum concentration of cTnI had increased significantly in all camels after EEJ, but not in controls. However, at 24 hours post-EEJ, the serum concentration of cTnI did not differ significantly compared with baseline values. The blood pH and base excess had decreased, and the PCO2 and lactic acid had increased after EEJ. The EEJ provoked decreases in hematocrit and mean corpuscular volume. In the control group, the base excess, HCO3(-), TCO2, anion gap, and lactic acid increased slightly after mating but did not reach a significant level compared with premating values. It is concluded that EEJ in camels results in a reversible myocardial injury, changes in the acid-base status, and increase the lactic acid concentration.

Impotentia generandi in male dromedary camels: clinical findings, semen characteristics, and testicular histopathology.

The objective of this study was to describe the clinical findings, semen characteristics, and testicular histopathology in male dromedary camels affected with impotentia generandi (IG). According to the history, 82.6% (38/46) of the cases were classified as primary-IG (P-IG; never been able to impregnate a female), whereas 17.4% (8/46) were classified as secondary-IG (S-IG; acquired infertility). Only one scrotal testis was observed in four cases, and no scrotal testis was observed in one case. Overall, testicular length, width, and depth were 6.46 ± 0.2, 3.41 ± 0.1, and 2.8 ± 0.08 cm, respectively. Within the P-IG males, 42.2% of the testes were classified as small, 47.9% as normal, and 9.9% as large. Within the S-IG males, 0.0% of the testes were classified as small, 80% as normal, and 20% as large. Ejaculate volume, total sperm number in the ejaculate, and sperm motility, viability, and abnormal morphology were 4.4 ± 0.3 mL, 25.7 ± 1.0 × 10(6), 18.7 ± 3.1%, 25.2 ± 3.4%, and 46.6 ± 3.7%, respectively. Azoospermia was observed in 30.4% of the cases, asthenospermia was observed in the 25% of the cases, and necrospermia was observed in 10% of the cases. The proportion of abnormal sperm was between 20% and 50%, and between 60% and 94% in 56.2% and 34.4% of the cases, respectively. Hypospermatogenesis, arrested spermatogenesis, Sertoli cell-only syndrome, and testicular degeneration were the main histopathological findings. In conclusion, IG in male dromedary camels appears to be related mainly to testicular dysfunction, which alters semen quality and reduces fertility.

Plasma steroid hormone concentrations and blood flow of the ovarian structures of the female dromedary (Camelus dromedarius) during growth, dominance, spontaneous ovulation, luteinization and regression of the follicular wave.

The objectives of this study were to investigate the ovarian follicular waves and their corresponding hormonal changes in she-camels and to elucidate blood perfusion of the ovarian structures. Three reproductively sound, non-pregnant female camels were examined daily using B-mode and color Doppler to detect changes in their ovarian structures and blood vasculature for 22 follicular waves. Blood area (BA) and percentage (BA%) were determined for the ovarian structures. Three phases of follicular development, those of growth, maturation, and regression, were observed during each follicular wave. Deviation occurred on Day 6.1±1.08. Estradiol increased from basal levels of 27.4±0.4pg/ml to peak concentrations of 134.4±47.5pg/ml as the follicle reached a diameter of 13.2mm. Peripheral progesterone concentrations remained low (<0.4ng/ml) throughout the follicular waves. The blood flow to the dominant follicles increased gradually with follicular growth. The BA and BA% reached the maximum values of 18.4±11.6mm(2) and 6.04±2.03%, respectively, when the diameter of the dominant follicle was 17.5±3.4mm. The blood flow to the corpus luteum rose markedly after ovulation to reach a maximum BA% and BA at Days 5 and 7, respectively, post ovulation. In conclusion, the follicular wave pattern in dromedaries consists of individually variable periods of growth, maturation and regression. Deviation occurs 6.1±1.08d from emergence. Transrectal color-Doppler sonography is a useful technique for noninvasive evaluation of follicular vascularity in camels during various stages of the follicular wave. It provides additional information to assess the developmental stage and activity of the ovarian structures.

Serum biochemical and haematological reference intervals for water buffalo Bubalus bubalis heifers.

Based on a review of the literature, reference intervals for water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) serum biochemistry and haematology have not previously been published. The current study was done to establish reference intervals for water buffalo heifers. The International Federation of Clinical Chemistry stated that at least 120 values are necessary to obtain reliable estimates for reference intervals. A total number of 127 clinically healthy buffalo heifers (1-2 years old) were included in the study. Animals were examined at buffalo farms that belong to Assiut Governorate, Egypt. Three types of samples were collected: serum samples for biochemical analysis, whole blood samples for haematological analysis and faecal samples for parasitological examination. Animals that fitted the inclusion criteria were included in the study. Biochemical analysis included serum total proteins, albumin, total globulins, alpha, beta and gamma globulin levels, and aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, gamma glutamyl transferase, creatine phosphokinase and lactate dehydrogenase activity. In addition to the above, serum creatinine, urea, total bilirubin, direct bilirubin, indirect bilirubin, sodium, potassium, chloride, magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, copper, zinc, iron, triglycerides, high density lipoprotein, low density lipoprotein, very low density lipoprotein, glucose levels and 20 haematological variables were measured. The 95.0% reference intervals were calculated by removing the upper and lower 2.5% of the interval for each serum biochemical constituent to give the 2.5 and 97.5 percentiles. Confidence intervals were calculated for each reference limit. Reference intervals from the current study were compared with established values for cows. The current study is as far as could be determined the first that establishes reference intervals for the serum biochemical and haematological parameters in water buffalo heifers.

Changes in blood flow in ovine follicles and serum concentration of estradiol 17 beta (E2) and nitric oxide (NO) around the time of ovulation in Ossimi ewes.

The aim of the present study was to examine the relation between follicular blood flow of the ovulatory follicle and the levels of serum E2 and nitric oxide (NO) in Ossimi ewe. Seven cyclic ewes were synchronized with a double injection PGF2α. The follicular wave was examined daily until ovulation (disappearance of the large dominant follicle ultrasonographically) with transrectal color Doppler ultrasonography (8-10MHz linear array transducer). The number of recruited follicles was 4.8±0.9 (3-8 follicles) with diameter of 2.8±0.1mm. The interval from PGF2α injection to follicle deviation was 2.35±0.07 days. The diameter of the first largest follicle (LF1) at recruitment day was 4±0.3mm while the diameter of the second largest follicle (LF2) was 3.7±0.1mm. The diameter of LF1 at the day of deviation was 5.1±0.5mm while the diameter of the LF2 was 4±0.7mm. The diameter of the ovulatory follicle was 6.1±0.5at day of ovulation. We detected the blood flow area of the ovulatory follicle at D2. At ovulation, the blood flow area and blood flow area percent increased significantly to be 11.9±0.6mm(2) and 44±3.4% respectively. The results showed a positive correlation between E2 and NO (r=0.85, P<0.009). Both increased concomitantly with the diameter of the ovulatory follicle. Besides, NO and E2 reached a maximum level at ovulation (12.1±1.8ng/ml and 16.4±1.7pg/ml respectively).