Magnetic resonance imaging of the dromedary camel carpus.

BACKGROUND: The dromedary camel (Camelus dromedarius) carpal joint presents multiple joints and constitutes several bones and soft tissues. Radiography and/or ultrasonography of the carpus are challenging due to structural superimposition. High-field magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technique precludes superimposed tissues and offers high soft tissue contrast in multiple sequences and planes. Hence, understanding the normal MRI anatomy is crucial during clinical investigations. Magnetic resonance imaging is highly sensitive for investigation of soft tissues and articular cartilage; therefore, it is extensively used for outlining joint anatomy and evaluation of a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions. MRI images of a specific anatomical region acquired by using multiple sequences in various planes are necessary for a complete MRI examination. Given the dearth of information on the MRI features of the dromedary camel carpus, the current study demonstrates the MRI appearance of the clinically significant structures in the camel carpus in various sequences and planes using a high-field 1.5 Tesla superconducting magnet. For this purpose, twelve cadaveric forelimbs, obtained from 6 clinically sound lameness free adult dromedary camels, were examined. RESULTS: The cortex and medulla of the radius, carpal bones and metacarpus were evaluated. Articular cartilage of the carpal joints was depicted and showed intermediate intensity. Carpal tendons expressed lower signal intensity in all pulse sequences. The collateral and inter-carpal ligaments showed mixed signal intensity. CONCLUSIONS: The obtained data outlines the validation of MRI for investigation of the camel carpus and could set as a reference for interpretation in clinical patients.

Prevalence of camel trypanosomosis and herders' knowledge, attitude, and practices towards the disease in the pastoral area of southern Ethiopia.

BACKGROUND: Surra is a parasitic disease caused by Trypanosoma evansi that threatens the health and productivity of camels. Despite its significant impact on camels in Ethiopia, surra has not received as much attention as diseases in cattle and other domestic animals. The objective of the study was to estimate the prevalence of surra, identify the potential risk factors and assess the traditional knowledge, attitude and practices of camel herders towards the disease. METHODS: The study used a parasitological and participatory epidemiological (PE) approach. Between February and July 2022, a total of 335 blood samples were collected from camels across three districts and tested using the buffy coat technique. The PE investigation involved six key informant groups consisting of 8 to 12 key persons, and used a semi-structured interview and various PE tools and principles. RESULT: The study found that the prevalence of surra among examined camels was 3.9% (95% CI: 2.1-6.5). The prevalence was significantly higher in camels with a poor body condition score (BCS) (OR = 9.3; 95% CI: 1.8-47.5; p = 0.008) compared with camels with a good BCS. However, district, age, sex, and ethnicity had no effect on the prevalence of surra (p > 0.05). The study also found that the packed cell volume (PCV) was significantly lower (p < 0.0001) in parasitaemic animals (18.92 ± 2.63) than in aparasitaemic animals (25.13 ± 4.56). Camels with poor BCS (22.7 ± 3.5) had a significantly (p < 0.001) lower mean PCV than camels with good BCS (26.2 ± 5.0). The PE investigation showed that all the camel herders were well aware of surra, known locally as Dhukana. The clinical symptoms, the season of high incidence, routes of transmission, impact on production, and control methods were accurately described. Moreover, this study emphasized that surra is the primary disease affecting camel health and productivity. CONCLUSION: The study identified a moderate prevalence of surra in the research area. To reduce surra incidence and associated losses, enhancing veterinary services and providing support for proper camel husbandry practices in the region is recommended. Additionally, future studies should consider using more sensitive and specific techniques like serological and molecular assays, as this study relied on microscopy only.

Comparative analysis of nutritional quality and microbial contamination in camel milk: Evaluating safety and public health risks between camel milk obtained from street vendors and farms in Saudi Arabia.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the nutritional quality and microbial contamination of raw camel milk sourced from street vendors and compare it with milk obtained from farms, with a particular emphasis on pathogenic organisms. METHODS: Twenty samples were systematically collected from street vendors and farms between July 2022 and February 2023 and analyzed at King Fahad Medical Research Centre and the Pharmacy College, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The microbial analysis employed culture-dependent techniques for colony-forming unit analysis and isolation of microbial colonies from milk samples. Microbial identification utilized advanced methods, including VITEK-MS equipment and the MALDI-TOF technique. The chemical composition was analysed through enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. RESULTS: The findings revealed significant differences in microbial loads, with milk sourced from street vendors exhibiting considerably higher microbial counts than farm-sourced milk, including pathogenic species like Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. The results indicated that camel milk from street vendors possessed a higher level of microbial contamination, suggesting potential health risks associated with its purchase and consumption from these sources. CONCLUSION: This study highlights the urgent need for stringent food safety practices in handling, selling, and distributing camel milk to reduce microbial risks to safe levels, thereby mitigating potential health hazards.

Quality Assessment of Reconstructed Cow, Camel and Mare Milk Powders by Near-Infrared Spectroscopy and Chemometrics.

Milk powders are becoming a major attraction for many industrial applications due to their nutritional and functional properties. Different types of powdered milk, each with their own distinct chemical compositions, can have different functionalities. Consequently, the development of rapid monitoring methods is becoming an urgent task to explore and expand their applicability. Lately, there is growing emphasis on the potential of near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) as a rapid technique for the quality assessment of dairy products. In the present work, we explored the potential of NIRS coupled with chemometrics for the prediction of the main functional and chemical properties of three types of milk powders, as well as their important processing parameters. Mare, camel and cow milk powders were prepared at different concentrations (5%, 10% and 12%) and temperatures (25 °C, 40 °C and 65 °C), and then their main physicochemical attributes and NIRS spectra were analyzed. Overall, high accuracy in both recognition and prediction based on type, concentration and temperature was achieved by NIRS-based models, and the quantification of quality attributes (pH, viscosity, dry matter content, fat content, conductivity and individual amino acid content) also resulted in high accuracy in the models. R2CV and R2pr values ranging from 0.8 to 0.99 and 0.7 to 0.98, respectively, were obtained by using PLSR models. However, SVR models achieved higher R2CV and R2pr values, ranging from 0.91 to 0.99 and 0.80 to 0.99, respectively.

Exploring methandienone metabolites generated via homogenized camel liver: Advancements for anti-doping applications through High Resolution-Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometry analysis.

RATIONALE: Anabolic steroids, also known as anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS), encompass steroidal androgens such as testosterone, as well as synthetic counterparts with similar structures and effects. The misuse of AAS has increased over the years, leading to ethical and welfare concerns in sports. The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and the International Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI) have banned AAS in relevant sports. Methandienone is one of the most identified anabolic androgenic steroids in sports drug testing, Therefore, reliable detection methods are crucial for effective doping control and maintaining the integrity of the sports. METHODS: This study explores the use of homogenized camel liver for detecting methandienone metabolites in camels. The biotransformation pathways of methandienone in homogenized camel liver tissues are analyzed using Liquid Chromatography-High Resolution Mass Spectrometry (LC-HRMS) to identify and characterize the phase I and phase II metabolites. Chromatographic separation was achieved using a Thermo-Hypersil C18 column. RESULTS: The study has identified 11 methandienone metabolites (M1-M11), this includes 10 phase I and one phase II metabolite. A glucuronic acid conjugate of methandienone was observed in this study, but no sulfonic acid conjugations were found. The metabolites and their possible chemical structures, along with their fragmentation patterns are confirmed using MSMS (MS2) experiments in data-independent acquisition (DIA) mode. CONCLUSIONS: These findings serve as a vital tool for the rapid detection of methandienone, combating its illicit use in camel racing. Comprehensive screenings covering both the parent drug and its metabolites are recommended to improve detection accuracy and ensure regulatory compliance in sports doping. Future research should explore methandienone's metabolite profile in administered camel samples.

Identification of novel genetic loci related to dromedary camel (Camelus dromedarius) morphometrics, biomechanics, and behavior by genome-wide association studies.

In the realm of animal breeding for sustainability, domestic camels have traditionally been valued for their milk and meat production. However, key aspects such as zoometrics, biomechanics, and behavior have often been overlooked in terms of their genetic foundations. Recognizing this gap, the present study perfomed genome-wide association analyses to identify genetic markers associated with zoometrics-, biomechanics-, and behavior-related traits in dromedary camels (Camelus dromedarius). 16 and 108 genetic markers were significantly associated (q < 0.05) at genome and chromosome-wide levels of significance, respectively, with zoometrics- (width, length, and perimeter/girth), biomechanics- (acceleration, displacement, spatial position, and velocity), and behavior-related traits (general cognition, intelligence, and Intelligence Quotient (IQ)) in dromedaries. In most association loci, the nearest protein-coding genes are linkedto neurodevelopmental and sensory disorders. This suggests that genetic variations related to neural development and sensory perception play crucial roles in shaping a dromedary camel's physical characteristics and behavior. In summary, this research advances our understanding of the genomic basis of essential traits in dromedary camels. Identifying specific genetic markers associated with zoometrics, biomechanics, and behavior provides valuable insights into camel domestication. Moreover, the links between these traits and genes related to neurodevelopmental and sensory disorders highlight the broader implications of domestication and modern selection on the health and welfare of dromedary camels. This knowledge could guide future breeding strategies, fostering a more holistic approach to camel husbandry and ensuring the sustainability of these animals in diverse agricultural contexts.

A survey of the tick-borne disease Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever in southern Algeria: First serological evidence in the dromedary camel population.

Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is a tick-borne viral zoonosis caused by a Nairovirus, Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV). Despite its wide geographical distribution, the epidemiology of CCHF in northern Africa is incompletely understood and its occurrence in Algeria is virtually unknown. The present survey aimed to determine the prevalence of CCHF antibodies and to identify the potential risk factors associated with CCHFV seropositivity among the one-humped camel (Camelus dromedarius) in southern Algeria. A total of 269 camels selected randomly from slaughterhouses in three wilayas were employed in the study. Sera sampled were tested for the presence of CCHFV-specific IgG antibodies using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). CCHFV seropositivity was recorded in 255 out of 269 camels accounting for a prevalence rate of 94.8% (95%CI = 92.14-97.45). The seroprevalence by origin was determined to be 97% (193/199) in imported camels and 86% (49/57) in local ones (p > 0.25). Tick presence (OR = 12.35, 95%CI = 1.41-107.43, p < 0.05) was recorded as the only potential risk factor for contracting CCHFV. This study shows for the first time that camels are exposed to CCHFV in Algeria with a significantly high seroprevalence. It also underlines the need for further research to investigate the broader extent of circulating CCHFV in the country, whether in humans, animals, or ticks.

Quality, supply chain, and use of Trypanocidal drugs among camel keepers in north-eastern Kenya: A cross-sectional study.

The non-cyclic trypanosomiasis (surra), caused by Trypanosoma evansi, and mechanically transmitted by biting flies, hinders camel productivity in Kenya. Trypanocides are the most commonly used drugs to control surra. However, emergence of drug resistance by the parasites is a major limitation to control efforts. There is limited information on the quality of trypanocides, the supply chain and drug-use practices among camel keepers potentially contributing to development of drug resistance in Kenya. We sought to fill this gap by conducting a cross-sectional study among camel keepers in Isiolo and Marsabit counties, Kenya. We mapped the trypanocide drugs supply chain through quantitative and qualitative surveys. We administered a semi-structured questionnaire to camel keepers to generate data on trypanocides-use practices, including the types, sources, person who administers treatment, reconstitution, dosage, route and frequency of administration, among others. Additionally, we tested the quality of trypanocidal drugs retailed in the region. We mapped a total of 55 and 49 agro-veterinary outlets and general (ordinary) shops retailing veterinary drugs in the two counties, respectively. These comprised of 29 and 26 agro-veterinary outlets, as well as 24 and 25 general shops in Isiolo and Marsabit counties, respectively. Overall, the respondents experienced 283 surra cases in the three-month recall period, which were treated with trypanocides. The majority of these cases were diagnosed by camel owners (71.7%) and herders (24.1%). A significant proportion of the cases were treated by camel owners (54.8%), herders (35.3%), the owner's son (3.2%) and veterinary personnel (1.1%) (χ2 = 24.99, p = 0.000). Most of the households sourced the drugs from agro-veterinary outlets (59.0%), followed by general shops (19.8%), veterinary personnel (2.1%), and open-air markets (0.4%) (χ2 = 319.24, p = 0.000). Quinapyramine was the most (56.9%) predominantly used trypanocide in treatment of surra, followed by homidium (19.8%), isometamidium (15.9%), diminazene aceturate (6.7%), and ethidium (0.7%) (χ2 = 340.75, p < 0.000). Only a meager proportion of respondents (15.2%) used the drugs correctly as instructed by the manufacturers. We recorded an association between correct drug usage, with the person who administers the treatment (χ2 = 17.7, p = 0.003), and the type of trypanocide used (χ2 = 19.4, p < 0.001). All the drug samples tested had correct concentrations of active ingredient (100.0%), and therefore of good quality. We have demonstrated that whereas the trypanocides retailed in the region by authorized vendors are of good quality, there is widespread incorrect handling and use of the drugs by unqualified individuals, which may contribute to treatment failure and emergence of trypanocide resistance.

The ultrastructure of peroxisomes in the kidney of the camel (Camelus dromedarius).

Dromedary camels can survive and reproduce in desert areas. The unique anatomical structure of the kidney enables the camel to prevent water loss. The present study aimed to investigate the ultrastructure of the peroxisomes in the normal kidney of the adult dromedary camel. Tissue samples were taken from the cortex and outer medulla of the kidney of eight camels. The samples were then processed for histological and ultrastructural investigations. The epithelial cells of the proximal tubules displayed peroxisomes with varying sizes and shapes. The peroxisomes were observed in either dispersed or clustered arrangement. Each peroxisome exhibited a homogenous matrix enveloped by a single membrane. Several peroxisomes exhibited one or more dark marginal plates that were always strongly associated with the smooth endoplasmic reticulum. The intensity of the peroxisomal matrix differed significantly, either within the same cell or across different cells. The intensity was light or dark, with a few peroxisomes presenting a similar intensity to that of the mitochondria. Some peroxisomes contained nucleoids within their matrix. The peroxisomes in the first and second sections of proximal convoluted tubules were scattered and primarily located in the region between the microvilli and the underlying mitochondria. The peroxisomes in the third region were abundant and frequently aggregated in clusters throughout the cytoplasm. In the fourth region, the number of peroxisomes was low. The proximal straight tubule had a limited quantity of peroxisomes. In conclusion, peroxisomes in the proximal tubule in kidney of normal dromedary camel were similar in shape and size to other mammals; however, heterogeneity exists as a result of differences in species-specific peroxisomal proteins. Peroxisomes are suggested to be a major source of metabolic energy and act as hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) scavengers, resulting in the release of water and oxygen.

Effects of long-term dehydration and quick rehydration on the camel kidney: pathological changes and modulation of the expression of solute carrier proteins and aquaporins.

BACKGROUND: Recurrent dehydration causes chronic kidney disease in humans and animal models. The dromedary camel kidney has remarkable capacity to preserve water and solute during long-term dehydration. In this study, we investigated the effects of dehydration and subsequent rehydration in the camel's kidney histology/ultrastructure and changes in aquaporin/solute carrier proteins along with gene expression. RESULTS: In light microscopy, dehydration induced few degenerative and necrotic changes in cells of the cortical tubules with unapparent or little effect on medullary cells. The ultrastructural changes encountered in the cortex were infrequent during dehydration and included nuclear chromatin condensation, cytoplasmic vacuolization, mitochondrial swelling, endoplasmic reticulum/ lysosomal degeneration and sometimes cell death. Some mRNA gene expressions involved in cell stability were upregulated by dehydration. Lesions in endothelial capillaries, glomerular membranes and podocyte tertiary processes in dehydrated camels indicated disruption of glomerular filtration barrier which were mostly corrected by rehydration. The changes in proximal tubules brush borders after dehydration, were accompanied by down regulation of ATP1A1 mRNA involved in Na + /K + pump that were corrected by rehydration. The increased serum Na, osmolality and vasopressin were paralleled by modulation in expression level for corresponding SLC genes with net Na retention in cortex which were corrected by rehydration. Medullary collecting ducts and interstitial connective tissue were mostly unaffected during dehydration. CKD, a chronic nephropathy induced by recurrent dehydration in human and animal models and characterized by interstitial fibrosis and glomerular sclerosis, were not observed in the dehydrated/rehydrated camel kidneys. The initiating factors, endogenous fructose, AVP/AVPR2 and uric acid levels were not much affected. TGF-ß1 protein and TGF-ß1gene expression showed no changes by dehydration in cortex/medulla to mediate fibrosis. KCNN4 gene expression level was hardly detected in the dehydrated camel's kidney; to encode for Ca + + -gated KCa3.1 channel for Ca + + influx to instigate TGF-ß1. Modulation of AQP 1, 2, 3, 4, 9 and SLC protein and/or mRNAs expression levels during dehydration/rehydration was reported. CONCLUSIONS: Long-term dehydration induces reversible or irreversible ultrastructural changes in kidney cortex with minor effects in medulla. Modulation of AQP channels, SLC and their mRNAs expression levels during dehydration/rehydration have a role in water conservation. Cortex and medulla respond differently to dehydration/rehydration.

Isolation, characterization, and antimicrobial resistance profiles of Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli from raw meat of large livestock in Shahrekord, Iran.

Campylobacter spp. genera is one of the most common causes of microbial enteritis worldwide. This study aimed to find out how common Campylobacter organisms were in raw meat from large livestock in Iran, as well as to determine their antibiotic susceptibility profiles. Several 550 fresh, ready-to-eat meat samples were collected from slaughterhouses, butcher shops, and restaurants in the study region. The samples were collected from cattle (n=138), goats (n=102), camels (n=56), and sheep (n=254). Campylobacter spp. were isolated and identified using normal bacteriological methods and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Genotyping was performed using PCR to identify virulence genes. The disc diffusion technique was used to determine antibiotic susceptibility. The two Campylobacter spp. were found in 84 (15.27%) of the 550 meat samples tested. Cattle and camel samples accounted for the highest (52.38%) and lowest (3.57%) frequencies of Campylobacter spp., respectively. There were significant differences in the prevalence of Campylobacter spp. in cattle (2=43.04 or OR=7.68, CI=3.40-17.30, P<0.01). Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli accounted for 82.14% (n=69) of Campylobacter spp. isolated from raw meat. While C. jejuni was found in 39.28% of the samples (n=33), C. coli was observed in 42.85% (n=36). Other Campylobacter spp. formed 17.85 % (n=15) of the samples. The most common genotypes observed in C. jejuni bacteria collected from different types of large animal samples were ciaB (100%) and flaA (100%). On the other hand, virbll (7.69%) was the C. jejuni strain found with the lowest incidence in different large animal samples. The most frequent genotypes found in C. coli bacteria were ciaB (100%) and flaA (100%). C. coli isolates dnaJ (0%), wlaN (0%), virbll (0%), and ceuE (0%) were detected with the lowest frequency in several samples from large livestock. Campylobacter spp. isolated from different sample types and sources were 100% sensitive to aphA-3-1 and GM10. The isolates were reported to be resistant to E15 (76.93%), cmeB (69.24%), aadE1 (69.24%), CIP5 (69.24%), and AM10 (69.24%). According to this study, Campylobacter was found in food from factory farming. Consequently, the disease can be transmitted by eating raw or undercooked meat. Therefore, proper handling and preparation of meat meals, as well as hygiene measures from the slaughterhouse to the retailer, are critical in preventing Campylobacter infections.

Unveiling the mix-up: investigating species and unauthorized tissues in beef-based meat products.

Customers are very concerned about high-quality products whose provenance is healthy. The identification of meat authenticity is a subject of growing concern for a variety of reasons, including religious, economic, legal, and public health. Between March and April of 2023, 150 distinct marketable beef product samples from various retailers in El-Fayoum, Egypt, were gathered. There were 30 samples of each of the following: luncheon, kofta, sausage, burger, and minced meat. Every sample underwent a histological investigation as well as subjected to a standard polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis to identify meat types that had not been stated by Egyptian regulations. According to the obtained data, the meat products under scrutiny contained a variety of unauthorized tissues which do not match Egyptian regulations. Furthermore, the PCR results indicated that the chicken, camels, donkeys, and pigs derivatives were detected in 60%, 30%, 16%, and 8% of examined samples, respectively. In conclusion, besides displaying a variety of illegal tissues, the majority of the meat items under examination were tainted with flesh from many species. As a result, it is crucial to regularly inspect these products before they are put on the market to ensure that they comply with the law and don't mislead customers Furthermore, it is advisable for authorities to implement rigorous oversight of food manufacturing facilities to ensure the production of safe and wholesome meat.

Mathematical assessment of control strategies against the spread of MERS-CoV in humans and camels in Saudi Arabia.

A new mathematical model for the transmission dynamics and control of the Middle Eastern respiratory syndrome (MERS), a respiratory virus caused by MERS-CoV coronavirus (and primarily spread to humans by dromedary camels) that first emerged out of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) in 2012, was designed and used to study the transmission dynamics of the disease in a human-camel population within the KSA. Rigorous analysis of the model, which was fitted and cross-validated using the observed MERS-CoV data for the KSA, showed that its disease-free equilibrium was locally asymptotically stable whenever its reproduction number (denoted by $ {\mathbb R}_{0M} $) was less than unity. Using the fixed and estimated parameters of the model, the value of $ {\mathbb R}_{0M} $ for the KSA was estimated to be 0.84, suggesting that the prospects for MERS-CoV elimination are highly promising. The model was extended to allow for the assessment of public health intervention strategies, notably the potential use of vaccines for both humans and camels and the use of face masks by humans in public or when in close proximity with camels. Simulations of the extended model showed that the use of the face mask by humans who come in close proximity with camels, as a sole public health intervention strategy, significantly reduced human-to-camel and camel-to-human transmission of the disease, and this reduction depends on the efficacy and coverage of the mask type used in the community. For instance, if surgical masks are prioritized, the disease can be eliminated in both the human and camel population if at least 45% of individuals who have close contact with camels wear them consistently. The simulations further showed that while vaccinating humans as a sole intervention strategy only had marginal impact in reducing the disease burden in the human population, an intervention strategy based on vaccinating camels only resulted in a significant reduction in the disease burden in camels (and, consequently, in humans as well). Thus, this study suggests that attention should be focused on effectively combating the disease in the camel population, rather than in the human population. Furthermore, the extended model was used to simulate a hybrid strategy, which combined vaccination of both humans and camels as well as the use of face masks by humans. This simulation showed a marked reduction of the disease burden in both humans and camels, with an increasing effectiveness level of this intervention, in comparison to the baseline scenario or any of the aforementioned sole vaccination scenarios. In summary, this study showed that the prospect of the elimination of MERS-CoV-2 in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is promising using pharmaceutical (vaccination) and nonpharmaceutical (mask) intervention strategies, implemented in isolation or (preferably) in combination, that are focused on reducing the disease burden in the camel population.

Abdominal fat necrosis in a female dromedary camel: Clinical, hematobiochemical, sonographic, and pathologic findings.

Background: Abdominal fat necrosis is mostly an incidental finding during rectal examination manifested by the presence of hard necrotic masses of different sizes. Differential diagnosis includes gastrointestinal neoplasia, abdominal abscessation and mummified fetuses. This report describes the clinical, hematological, biochemical, sonographic, and pathologic findings in a female Arabian camel (Camelus dromedaries) with abdominal fat necrosis. Case Description: A 7-year-old female dromedary camel was presented for examination because of weakness and progressive weight loss since months ago. Anthelmintics, analgesics, broad-spectrum antimicrobials, anti-inflammatories and stomachics were administered, but did not result in significant improvement. Preliminary examination of the case revealed emaciation with a body condition score of 2.5 (scale 1-5). The cardiopulmonary, digestive, and urinary systems were evaluated transcutaneously by sonography in the recumbent position. Multiple echogenic masses-located within the intestinal loops were observed alongside few hypoechogenic masses. A hyperechogenic peritoneal effusion and enlarged mesenteric lymph nodes were also detected. Decreased hematocrit value, normocytic normochromic anemia, neutrophilic leukocytosis, hypoalbuminemia, hhyperglobulinemia, hyperglycemia, hyponatremia, and hyperkalemia were detected. A free-hand, ultrasound-guided biopsy was examined histopathologically and revealed multiple abdominal fat necrosis, severe fibrosis, and pancreatitis. Conclusion: It is concluded that, transabdominal ultrasonography in camels was valuable for suspicious of abdominal mesenteric masses and helpful in sampling of a representative biopsy specimen However, histological examination of the biopsy remains the final diagnostic method.

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.

Seroprevalence and risk factors for Q fever and Rift Valley fever in pastoralists and their livestock in Afar, Ethiopia: A One Health approach.

BACKGROUND: Coxiella burnetii, the causative agent of Q fever, and Rift Valley fever virus are two under-researched zoonotic pathogens in Ethiopia. Potential outbreaks of these diseases, in light of the high dependency of nomadic pastoralists on their livestock, poses a risk to both human and animal health in addition to risking the pastoralists livelihoods. Our study aimed to determine the seroprevalence and associated risk factors for Q fever and Rift Valley fever in pastoral communities in the Afar region of north-eastern Ethiopia. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: This cross-sectional study screened pastoralists (n = 323) and their livestock (n = 1377) for IgG antibodies to Coxiella burnetii and Rift Valley fever virus. A seroprevalence for Q fever of 25.0% (95%CI 18.6-32.6) was found in pastoralists and 34.3% (95%CI 27.9-41.3) in livestock overall; with 51.9% in goats (95%CI 44.9-58.8), 39.9% in sheep (95%CI 24.6-51.2), 16.3% in camels (95%CI 10.4-24.6) and 8.8% in cattle (95%CI 5.0-15.0). For Rift Valley fever the seroprevalence in pastoralists was 6.1% (95%CI 3.3-11.0) and 3.9% (95%CI 2.6-5.7) in livestock overall; cattle had the highest seroprevalence (8.3%, 95%CI 3.3-19.2), followed by goats (2.7%; 95%CI 1.4-5.1), sheep (2.5%; 95%CI 1.0-5.9) and camels (1.8%; 95%CI 0.4-6.9). Human Q fever seropositivity was found to be associated with goat abortions (OR = 2.11, 95%CI 1.18-3.78, p = 0.011), while Rift Valley fever seropositivity in livestock was found to be associated with cattle abortions (OR = 2.52, 95%CI 1.05-6.08, p = 0.039). CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE: This study provides evidence for a notable exposure to both Q fever and Rift Valley fever in pastoralists and livestock in Afar. The outbreak potential of these pathogens warrants ongoing integrated human and animal surveillance requiring close collaboration of the human and animal health sectors with community representatives following a One Health approach.

Grazing camels under semi-extensive production system: selectivity, feed intake capacity, digestion and energy expenditure.

BACKGROUND: It was proposed that camels are more effective than other livestock species in selecting plants for their nutritional value. They may self-regulate their voluntary feed intake to satisfy their nutritional needs. This study was designed to investigate camels' feeding selectivity and ability to cover nutritional requirements when grazing alfalfa (high in protein) and/ or barley (high in energy) in a desert climate. METHODS: Eighteen lactating camels were equally divided into three feeding treatments. They grazed daily on alfalfa, barley, or a mixed pasture of both, for two periods of one month each. The concentrate supplement was individually administered at 40 g/kg BW0.75, divided into two equal parts, in the morning and in afternoon. Total energy expenditure (EE) was estimated by heart rate (HR) monitors for 48 h after being calibrated by oxygen consumption using an upgraded face mask open-circuit respiratory system. RESULTS: During the first period, camels had a greater forage intake and digestibility when they grazed barley rather than alfalfa, while those grazing mixed pasture performed intermediately. In the second period, camels had a similar forage intake and digestibility among treatments due to a decline in barley intake and digestibility compared to the first period, which was expected since the preferred plant part gradually shifted from barley grains to predominantly straw as a function of time. Similar HR and EE were found across periods and treatments. As a result of greater gross and digestible energy intake in period 1, a better energy balance in period 1 was observed compared to period 2. Camels better utilize barley than alfalfa. Grazing on barley had a higher energy balance than grazing alfalfa alone or in combination with barley. However, camels grazing barley produced lower milk yield and energy than those grazing alfalfa alone or in combination with barley, with no interaction detected between period and treatment. CONCLUSIONS: Lactating camels are able to self-regulate their voluntary intake to cover their energy requirements when they are grazing barley and/or alfalfa supplemented with a concentrate supplement at 40 g/kg BW0.75. Grazing barley is better utilized by camels than alfalfa. The chemical and physical properties of plant species play an important role in the selectivity of foraging camels. It also impacts their intake and digestibility, which is negatively associated with the proportion of cell wall content consumed.

A modified supraorbital surgical approach for enucleation- exenteration in dromedary camels (camelus dromedarius): Clinical study.

Enucleation and exenteration are widely utilized ophthalmic procedures in veterinary field. Enucleation in camels is like other large animals, typically performed under the influence of heavy sedation and loco-regional analgesia. The aim of the current study was to introduce a new surgical approach to enucleate the eye of camels through supraorbital fossa approach. for that purpose, the technique was applied to seven camels referred to the King-fisal teaching veterinary hospital for unilateral enucleation. Assessment of applicability, safety and feasibility of this technique was done. All procedures were performed in the kush (sitting) position under the influence of heavy sedation with Xylazine HCl in combination with retrobulbar nerve block. A "C" shaped skin incision was made in the skin and fascia of the supraorbital fossa to enter the orbital cavity, after which the periorbital fat was gripped, dissected and removed. Bleeding controlled by electrocautery and visible large blood vessels were ligated. After ligation the optic nerve and ophthalmic blood vessels, the eyeball was dissected sharply and freed from the orbital bony attachment. Finally, the orbital fascia and skin were sutured with simple interrupted pattern separately. The approach proved successful in all camels, with the enucleation procedure being both feasible and easily performed. The mean surgical time was approximately 46.6±12.4 minutes. The minimal occurrence of short and long-term complications was encouraging, and the cosmetic outcomes were notably improved. The supraorbital approach is a safe and effective technique for camel ophthalmic surgery, showing advantages in exposure and minimal complications. Further research is needed for validation and broader clinical applications.

A Comparative Study on the Composition and Structure of Human Milk Phospholipids and its Natural Resources: Based on a Similarity Evaluation Model.

Human milk phospholipids (HMPLs) play an indispensable role in the neurodevelopment and growth of infants. In this study, a total of 37 phospholipid fatty acid (PLFA) species and 139 phospholipid molecular species were detected from human milk and other natural phospholipid sources (including 5 animal-derived species and 2 plant species). Moreover, a similarity evaluation model for HMPLs was established, including phospholipid classes, PLFAs, and phospholipid molecular species, to evaluate their natural substitutes. The closest scores for HMPL substitute in these three dimensions was 0.89, 0.72, and 0.77, which belonged to mare milk, goat milk, and camel milk, respectively. The highest comprehensive similarity score was obtained by camel milk at 0.75, while the lowest score was observed in soybean phospholipid (0.22). Therefore, these results not only monitored the stereochemical structure of HMPLs and their substitutes, but also further provided new insights for the development of infant formulae.

Preparation, characterization, and mechanism of DPP-IV inhibitory peptides derived from Bactrian camel milk.

In this study, double enzyme hydrolysis significantly enhanced the DPP-IV inhibition rate compared to single enzyme. The α + K enzymes exhibited the highest inhibition rate. Ultrasonic pretreatment for 30 min improved the hydrolysis efficiency and DPP-IV inhibition rate, potentially due to the structural changes in hydrolysates, such as the increased surface hydrophobicity, and reduced particle size, α-helix and ß-turn. Six peptides were screened and verified in vitro. QPY, WPEYL, and YPPQVM displayed competitive inhibition, while LPAAP and IPAPSFPRL displayed mixed competitive/non-competitive inhibition. The interactions between these six peptides and DPP-IV primarily occurred through hydrogen bonds, electrostatic and hydrophobic interactions. Network pharmacological analysis indicated that LPAAP might inhibit DPP-IV activity trough interactions with diabetes-related targets such as CASP3, HSP90AA1, MMP9, and MMP9. These results uncover the potential mechanism of regulating blood glucose by camel milk hydrolysates, establishing camel milk peptide as a source of DPP-IV inhibitory peptide.