1.
Prevalence Of Trichomonas Foetus In Large Ruminants Of District Hafiizabad
by Amjad Atta Bhatti | Dr. Khalid Saeed | Dr | Prof. Dr. Kamran Ashraf.
Material type: ; Format:
print
; Literary form:
drama
Publisher: 2012Dissertation note: Trichomonas foetus (T. foetus) is a protozoan parasite of reproductive tract of large ruminants and causes abortion. This organism is found in males and females associated with varied pathology and clinical symptom. Disease has venereal transmission and male remain infected throughout the life. Pakistan is a developing country and artificial insemination facility is not available to all farmers and some are reluctant to avail it.
This study was designed to check the prevalence of T. foetus in large animals in district Hafizabad. One hundred and fifty preputial and vaginal samples were collected from cattle and buffaloes 75 each. These samples were from 100 females and 50 males. Vaginal mucus from females was thoroughly examined for T. foetus in direct smear and in smear stained by Giemsa stain. Male samples were subjected to examination by direct smear, centrifugation and stained smear performed from sediments for detection of T. foetus. Overall prevalence of T. foetus was 12.0% (18/150) in sampled animals and species wise T. foetus infection was 8% (6/75) for cattle and 16% (12/75) for buffalos. Sex related prevalence of T. foetus in cows is 6% (3/50) and in buffaloes was 14% (7/50). Infection was more common in buffalo bulls 20% (5/25) as compared with cow bulls 12% (3/25).
There was no difference in diagnosis of T. foetus in females by direct smear or by examination of stained smears. Whereas stained smears prepared from sediments of preputial washings were more sensitive in diagnosing of T. foetus infection as compared with direct smear method. Study also indicated that infection was exclusively seen in animals that were involved in natural breeding.
Availability: Items available for loan: UVAS Library [Call number: 1438,T] (1).
2.
Epidemiology Zoonotic Potential Haematology Amd Chemotherapy Of Sarcoptic Mange In Camel In Punjab
by Muhammad Irfan Zahid (2011-VA-800 | Prof. Dr. Azhar Maqbool | Prof. Dr. Muhammad Sarwar Khan | Prof. Dr.Shazia Anjum | Prof. Dr. Kamran Ashraf.
Material type: ; Format:
print
; Literary form:
not fiction
Publisher: 2015Dissertation note: A camel is a very hardy ruminant animal, which can survive under harsh climatic
conditions very effectively by utilizing the marginal areas with excellent capabilities and produce
under such conditions (Hjort and Hussein, 1986; Abbas and Tilley, 1990). Camel is an important
animal as it is well adopted in unique manners in the hot, arid and semi-arid environments
(Schwartz, 1992). It can survive without water and food for many days and this unique ability of
camel makes it an ideal for such harsh conditions for which it is also commonly known as “The
Desert Ship”. In spite of the fact that camel is an important member of a group of animals which
produces food for human consumption in the shape of milk and meat, yet it is the most neglected
one in the field of scientific research. It may be due to the fact that camel belongs to such areas
of the world which are arid, semi-arid or rain fed in nature, having harsh climatic conditions,
where poor nutrition and poor management are the major issues (Sohail, 1983).
It is an established fact that diseases originating from parasites lead to the main health
hazard issues in animals. These parasites survive at the expense of the host animals causing lot of
health problems, like skin irritation, anemia leading to weakness and debility. Some of the
parasites have zoonotic importance and may become a source for the transfer of many contagious
diseases like scabies to the human beings (Dominguez et al. 1978). McClain et al. 2009,
observed the scabies as a major health problem globally both for humans and animal population.
Sarcoptes scabiei is an ectoparasite which is a cause of scabies, a skin problem in the human
beings worldwide and the similar species of mites do also produce a similar type of disease in a
large variety of wild and domesticated mammals (Pence and Ueckermann, 2002; Fitzgerald et
al. 2004). Fain, 1978, reported that more than fifteen (15) different species of Sarcoptes scabiei
morphologically and genetically distinct from each other have been identified in different hosts.
Introduction
2
Sarcoptic mange is the second important problematic disease of camel after
Trypanosomiasis (Nayel and Abu-Samra, 1986). Scabies caused by Sarcoptes scabiei var cameli
is a serious & highly contagious skin problem and also economically important disease of the
camels (Pegram and Higgins, 1992). Camels, which are reared with deficient nutrition, poor
management and under unhygienic conditions are mostly affected by this disease (Kumar et al.
1992).
A large group of people and communities living in arid diverse ecozones in the entire
world, particularly in harsh climates earns their livelihoods by depending on camels. This
dependence may spread to the utilization of camel milk, meat, wool and leather besides its use in
transportation, riding and sports (Wilson, 1984; Snow et al. 1992). In Pakistan camels are also
raised by the people for meat, milk, riding, transportation and sports purposes in the deserts, semi
desert & rain-fed / warm areas of the entire country being a hardy animal as it can tolerate easily
the rugged climate as well as extremes of temperatures of such areas.
The natural harsh and adverse climatic conditions, particularly during long dry seasons
lead to a paucity of feeding regimes resultantly the camels raised in such areas are subjected to
stress conditions which lower their resistance and make them easily vulnerable to diseases
(Abbas et al. 1993; Agab, 1993). Abbas & Tilley, 1990; Saint-Martin et al. 1992; Abbas and
Agab, 2002; Pathak and Chhabra, 2010; while reviewing the parasites & parasitic diseases of
camel population in India were of the opinion that Sarcoptic mange is a serious, debilitating,
dreaded and widely prevalent disease of camels in India.
Besides other infectious diseases of bacterial and viral origin, camels are exposed to a
wide range of internal & external parasitic infestations. Amongst other so many external
parasites to which camels are exposed, the Sarcoptic mange is recognized to be one of the most
Introduction
3
serious and damaging disease. This disease is caused by a mite known as Sarcoptes scabiei var
cameli which belongs to genus Camelus of SARCOPTIDAE family in Veterinary Entomology.
It is an extremely pruritic, contagious and debilitating skin disease which is very
frequently and sudden in onset. It is also ranked as one of the most serious and important disease
of the camels. Sarcoptic mange infestation is very common in the areas of thin skin, the head,
neck, flanks, medial aspect of thighs or inguinal region, mammary glands and prepuce. The head
is usually affected very rapidly as the animal uses its teeth for scratching the affected areas.
Besides linking the occurrence of the disease with poor camel management, malnutrition and
contact with infected objects, the stray & infected camels also often become a focus of infecting
the healthy animals when mingling with them particularly at watering places for drinking
purpose (Richard, 1987; Abdel-Rehman et al. 2001).
Sarcoptes is a burrowing mite as it penetrates deeply through the skin surface of the
infected camel. This burrowing of mites in the skin helps these parasites lead to intense pruritus
and exudative dermatitis. In pruritus, mites penetrate deep into muscular areas, damaging the
flesh and lowering the quality of meat. The early inflammatory reaction of the host body towards
the mites becomes evident in the shape of small popular elevations, invasion and injuries leading
to formation of hairless areas, scaly crust formation or scabs on the affected parts and the skin
become dark and thickened. Skin of mangy camel show hemorrhages, and subcutaneous odema
after the development of fissures in the underlying epidermis (Kumar et al. 1992; Amer et al.
2006).
The fertilized female mites create winding burrows or tunnels in the upper layers of the
epidermis of the skin of the host animal and feeding on the serous exudate, a liquid oozing from
the damaged tissues. The female mites lay about 40-50 fertilized eggs in these tunnels which
Introduction
4
hatch in 3-5 days into a six legged larvae. These larvae immediately crawl to the surface and
burrow themselves in the superficial layers of the skin and create small molting pockets. In these
molting pockets, the larvae molt to next stages of nymph and adult. The adult male then emerges
and seeks a female either in the molting pocket or on the surface of skin. After fertilization the
female produces new tunnels, either de novo or, by extension, of the molting pockets, lays eggs
in these tunnels and a new life cycle starts. The entire life cycle of Sarcoptic mange is completed
in 17-21 days.
New hosts can be infected through direct transmission by contact between the animals,
presumably from larvae, nymph or adult mites, which are commonly present on the skin surface
of the infected animal. Indirect transmission of infestation can also take place through the objects
or fomites having mange infection, which come into contact with the affected camel, such as
harnesses, blankets, baggage tack, tents and tree trunks (Richards, 1987). The pruritus increases
as the mites penetrate deeper in the skin (Al-Rawashdeh et al. 2000, Driot et al. 2011, Bekele et
al. 2012). Based on the rate of infection camels can be seriously disturbed by the Sarcoptic
infestation as they may stop grazing which can lead to a rapid fall in milk production, and
deterioration of health condition. With the increase in the irritation due to scabies, the camel
rubs, bites and scratches the affected areas in an attempt to reduce the itchiness. Due to rubbing,
biting or scratching, the mites move to the periphery affecting the healthy tissues and resultantly
affected area spreads. As the disease prolongs, the skin becomes excoriated, leading to hair loss
and the development of scabs. These scabs in turn may be rubbed away and a red surface
developed. The animal becomes restless due to severe Sarcoptic mange infestation and
involvement of most of the body surface. If the diseased animal is not treated in time, the animal
loses its health condition, become emaciated and within two, three weeks the acute stage of
Introduction
5
disease may give way to more chronic state (Gorakh et al. 2000, Abubakar et al. 2002, Driot et
al. 2011). Sarcoptic mites rarely survive long off the host under natural conditions.
A continuous direct contact of animal keepers with their camels can also lead to
transmission of diseased condition in human beings which is termed as pseudo scabies.
Transmission of infection from camel to man usually takes place during milking, handling or
riding. The main symptoms of pseudo scabies can therefore be seen in the inter digital spaces of
the hands, on the wrists, forearms, the elbows, the axillary folds and inner side of the thighs.
Once a herd is infected with Sarcoptic mange, continuous reinfection of the disease occurs
(Schillinger 1987, Singh & Veer 2005, Premalatha et al. 2010).
Sarcoptic mange is usually considered to be a seasonal disease and is often reported
severe during the winter months as in cold weather the disease had an acute course. However,
there is some evidence that in some countries hot weather predisposes to acute outbreaks of
camel mange and in the cooler, winter season the rate of mange infestations are at the lowest. In
the summer the activity of the mite seems to decline or disease becomes chronic. Dietary intake
is an important factor in mange infestation. Nomadic camels on a low nutrition plan, probably
carrying heavy worm burdens in hot desert conditions are likely, therefore, to be highly prone to
Sarcoptes at this time (Dinka et al, 2010). During such periods of great activity, the mites are
readily transmissible from one animal to other animals (Richards, 1987, Banaja & Ghandour,
1994, Tefera & Gebreah, 2001).
Mange can easily be diagnosed clinically from the occurrence of pruritus, depilation,
alopecia, thickened skin, folds around the joints and encrusted plaques being the main
characteristics of this parasitosis. In order to control this zoonotic disease, it is essential to treat
Introduction
6
both camel and man along with effective checks over other predisposing factors of the disease
such as hygiene and nutritional requirements of the animals.
The skin diseases like the scabies both in human beings and animals are being treated
with a variety of allopathic drugs now a day, but the role of herbal plants in use since centuries in
different shapes cannot be ignored at all, especially in the rural lifestyle. Further with the
continuous use of different acaricidal drugs, the issue of resistance development has come across
as a challenge for the researchers to find some alternatives for the purpose. Accordingly the
research work on the use of traditional herbal medicines is gaining attention day by day.
Although there are many reports and studies regarding the prevalence of Sarcoptic mange
in camel from different parts of the world, only few preliminary reports are available for Pakistan
and none of them provide detailed epidemiology of Sarcoptic mange and its effect on host
health. Therefore, keeping in view the importance of the mange problem in camel population of
the country, the present project was designed to determine the prevalence of Sarcoptic mange
infestation, factors in its occurrence its zoonotic importance, effect on blood physiology and
different treatment options in the camel population of Punjab, province in Pakistan. Availability: Items available for loan: UVAS Library [Call number: 2190,T] (1).
3.
Isolation Of Surface Antigen 1 Gene Of Toxoplasma Gondii And Its Cloning In The Expression Plasmid
by Farooq Riaz (2008-VA-231) | Dr. Muhammad Imran Rashid | Prof. Dr. Kamran Ashraf | Dr. Jawad Nazir.
Material type: ; Literary form:
not fiction
Publisher: 2015Dissertation note: Toxoplasma gondii is an obligate intracellular protozoan parasite which comes under the classification of phylum Apicomplexa, subclass Coccidiasina (Cornelissen et al. 1984). Toxoplasmosis is one of the more common parasitic zoonoses world-wide caused by Toxoplasma gondii which is a facultatively heteroxenous, polyxenous protozoon that has developed several potential routes of transmission within and between different host species (Tenter et al. 2000). It is the most important source of toxoplasmosis in humans and animals, with cat as definite host and warm-blooded animals as intermediate host (Frenkel et al. 1970). It was first described by Nicolle, Manceaux and Splendore in 1908 from rodents Ctenodactylus gondii (Black and Boothroyd 2000).
Toxoplasmosis is a worldwide parasitic disease and it is estimated that about one-third total population of the world is seropositive for Toxoplasma gondii (Tenter et al. 2000). Prevalence of infection varies between countries, geographical areas and ethnic groups living within a specific region. In Humans, infection rates range from 50% to 83% in Brazil (Tenter et al. 2000; Dubey et al. 2012). Seropositivity of Toxoplasma gondii in China is about 8% with continuously increase while in USA its 10-15%, 50-70% in France and 20% in UK (Dubey and Jones 2008; Zhou et al. 2008; Jones et al. 2009). Prevalence of toxoplasmosis is higher in males (79%) as compared to females (63.4%) and the age dependent sero-prevalence reaches >92% in age group of 40 to 50 (Coêlho et al. 2003).
Transmission occurs through the ingestion of contaminated vegetable /water with oocysts, as well as the ingestion of contaminated raw/undercooked meat with tissue cysts (Gajadhar et al. 2006). Transmission may also occurs by ingestion of sporulated oocysts, or bradyzoites within cysts present in the tissues of numerous food animals (Esteban-Redondo et al. 1999). In humans, transmission of Toxoplasma gondii happens mainly by eating raw or undercooked contaminated meat, raw cow’s milk and birds eggs, swallowing oocysts dis-charged in feces of infected cats, inoculation of trophozoites through the skin, or by inhalation (Wallace 1971; Wallace 1973; Bannister 1982).
In humans, mostly infections (congenitally or post-natally acquired) are asymptomatic. Congenital infection occurs only when a woman becomes infected during pregnancy. Congenital infections acquired during the first trimester are more severe than those acquired in the second and third trimester (Desmonts and Couvreur 1974). The main clinical signs associated with toxoplasmosis are anorexia, weight loss, lethargy, dyspnea, ocular signs, pyrexia, vomiting and diarrhea, jaundice, myositis, encephalitis and abortion. Humans become infected when they ingest the toxoplasma at infective stages (oocysts and tissue cysts) found in some cat feces and in raw meats.
In addition to being hazardous to livestock animals, the T. gondii infection is also important due to its zoonotic implications (Jittapalapong et al. 2005). Congenital abnormalities in humans, such as microcephaly, hydrocephaly, chorioretinitis, convulsion, cerebral calcification, epilepsy, blindness, deafness, and mental retardation may occur if the mother acquires infection during pregnancy (Jones et al. 2003). In addition to congenital anomalies, T. gondii also causes severe neuropathologic infections in immuno-compromised hosts, such as AIDS and cancer patients receiving chemotherapy (Del Valle and Piña-Oviedo 2005).
Seroprevalence studies of T. gondii among domestic animals in South-Western Pakistan has indicated considerable prevalence (25% in cattle, 2.5% sheep) (Zaki 1995) and suggesting potential transmission to the human community. Small scale study in urban area of Rahim Yar Khan (Punjab), Pakistan has revealed that the overall prevalence of toxoplasmosis in food animals is 19% (Ramzan et al. 2009). Another study has already been published that untreated patients with leprosy in Pakistan have shown significant seroprevalence (29.6%) of antibodies against T. gondii (Hussain et al. 1992).
Vaccine against toxoplasmosis is not available yet with one exception (“Toxovax” for sheep). Vaccine against T. gondii in animals used for human consumption may block the possible transmission to humans (Bhopale 2003). SAG1, among one of the major antigenic components of Toxoplasma gondii is a major surface antigen identified on the surface membrane of this parasite using a monoclonal antibody (Handman et al. 1980). SAG1 is an important surface antigen, expressed by tachyzoite form of T. gondii and is a putative candidate for vaccine and diagnostic against toxoplasmosis (Sharma et al. 1983; Godard et al. 1990). Immunization with SAG1 adjuvanted with saponin Quil A or incorporated in lysosomes provided total protection after challenge (Bülow and Boothroyd 1991; Khan et al. 1991). SAG1 is single copy gene with no introns (Burg et al. 1988), regulates both humoral as well as cellular Th1 immune responses (Liu et al. 2008) and is powerful candidate for vaccine against toxoplasmosis. SAG1 is a potent candidate of diagnostics for detection of serum antibodies against toxoplasmosis in Man and animals (Abu-Zeid 2002).
Availability: Items available for loan: UVAS Library [Call number: 2258-T] (1).
4.
Antiviral Effect Of Human Saliva Against Avian Influenza Virus Strain H9n2
by Maryam Riaz (2008-VA-340) | Prof. Dr. Tahir Yaqub | Dr. Sehrish Firyal | Prof. Dr. Kamran Ashraf.
Material type: ; Literary form:
not fiction
Publisher: 2015Dissertation note: Saliva is an important body fluid that contains a complex array of proteins, peptides and various substances that help in maintaining the health of the oral cavity. Saliva exhibits a broad-spectrum of antiviral activity against enveloped viruses as it disrupts the viral membrane. Influenza is a common virus that has been diagnosed in humans and avian species due to AIV. This study has demonstrated the naturally occurring antiviral activity of human saliva against the H9N2 influenza virus that serves as a serious threat to poultry and has been shown to possess high zoonotic potential which can cause a new pandemic.
In this study saliva samples from healthy individuals were taken and the natural antiviral ability of saliva was observed against AIV (Pk-UDL/01/08 H9N2) of calculated EID50 106.66. Inoculum prepared from saliva and H9N2 virus was injected in 9 days old embryonated eggs using CAS route and incubated at 37°C for 48 hours. A negative control (only saliva) and positive control (only virus inoculum) was also determined in the current study. The antiviral activity of saliva was observed through haemagglutination test. The HA test of harvested fluid showed that human saliva indeed possesses antiviral activity against H9N2 virus and can be used as a natural antiviral agent in medicine.
Furthermore, the genomic DNA was extracted from the blood samples. HTN3 gene responsible for histatin production, was amplified using gene specific oligonucleotides. The obtained HTN3 gene sequences were analyzed using Chromas software. The sequence alignment showed 99% similarity to the available sequences in NCBI database and 100% similarity to each individual sample. To conclude, this study has demonstrated that human saliva possesses antiviral activity against H9N2 virus. The nucleotide sequence analysis from each sample
CHAPTER 6
SUMMARY
Summary
47
showed no particular change which shows that antiviral activity of glycoproteins present in saliva does not vary at a genetic level. This innate antiviral activity can open a new frontier when it comes to combating viral infections that have grown resistant to conventional drugs in both human and animal subjects. Availability: Items available for loan: UVAS Library [Call number: 2336-T] (1).
5.
Clinico-Epidemiological And Therapeutic Study On Babesiosis In Different Breeds Of Cattle In Balochistan
by Muhammad Essa Kakar (2005-va-229) | Prof. Dr. Muhammad Arif Khan | Prof. Dr. Kamran Ashraf | Prof. Dr. Muhammad Sarwar Khan | Prof. Dr. Muhammad Azam Kakar.
Material type: ; Literary form:
not fiction
Publisher: 2015Dissertation note: Babesiosis which is also called as piroplasmosisis, Texas fever, redwater or tick fever, is an emerging, tick-transmitted (by a vector ixodidea) disease caused by intraerythrocytic parasites of the genus babesia having considerable worldwide economic, medical, and veterinary impact. Keeping in view the importance of babesiosis under local conditions, the present study was designed to evaluate the status babesiosis in Balochistan. For this purpose field and experimental studies were carried in two districts Quetta and Sibi of Balochistan Province to find out the status of babesiosis in Bhag Nari, Holstein Friesian and Crossbred cattle. During field study epidemiological status of babesiosis was highlighted by selecting 600 cattle randomly from each district. The animals were distributed into 2 major groups i.e. Young animals less than 12 months and adult over 12 months of age. These groups were further sub-divided into Young animals (less than 6 months, up to 9 months and up to 12 months) while Adults animals (up to 2 years, 3 years and over 3 years). The vector of babesia was also kept under keen observation for the prevalence/infestation rate, identification and economic losses caused during the course of study. Blood samples were collected from each animal and processed for blood smears examination and PCR for further confirmation of babesia infection. The blood samples were also processed for hematological study to evaluate the effect of babesiosis on different blood parameters. For experimental study 148 animals were selected through clinical signs of babesiosis, blood smear examination and PCR. Out of theses 40 animals were maintained for therapeutic trail to find out the cheapest and easily available drug against bovine babesiosis. For this purpose Neem leaves were used in decoction form while Imidocarb dipopionate was kept as standard control. The
Summary
177
results of epidemiological study revealed higher prevalence of babesiosis (20.5%) in district Quetta while 15.16% was recorded in District Sibi. Similarly higher prevalence was recorded in Holstein Friesian than in Crossbred and Bhag Nari cattle respectively in both districts Quetta and Sibi. Furthermore higher prevalence of babesiosis was recorded in adult groups of Holstein Friesian than in Crossbred and Bhag Nari cattle. Similarly season wise higher prevalence of babesia infection was noticed in summer followed by spring, autumn and winter respectively while higher prevalence was noted in female group of animals than male animals. Blood smears examination and PCR confirmed two babesia species i.e. babesia bigemina and babesia bovis. Similarly Boophilus tick species were identified as the vector of babesia parasites. During present study mixed hemoprotozaon infection of babesia mixed with theileria was recorded in both districts. The results of conventional method and modern diagnostic technique (PCR) revealed that PCR identified higher babesia infection during the entire 4 seasons as well as in all age groups whereas blood smears examination was capable to diagnose babesiosis in adult groups during the months of summer and spring season. Breed wise prevalence was also higher in samples treated with PCR than blood smears examination and even samples that were declared negative by blood smears examination were also found positive. The results of complete blood cell count from blood samples of infected experimental animal showed regenerative, macrocytic hypochromic anemia. Blood smear examination showed presence of many babesia with reticulocytes. Abnormalities in erythrocyte structure were seen. The result of blood parameters of total erythrocyte count, total leukocyte count, packed cell volume and hemoglobin showed significant decrease in all three affected Bhag Nari, Holstein Friesian and Cross bred cattle. The values of MCV and MCH were increased and MCHC was slightly less than normal value. No efficacy of neem decoction was noted against bovine babesiosis. Availability: Items available for loan: UVAS Library [Call number: 2367-T] (1).
6.
Molecular Diagnosis Of Babesiosis In Cattle With Special Reference To Cardinal Signs In District Lahore, Punjab
by Shakeel Hussain (2007-VA-463) | Prof. Dr. Kamran Ashraf | Dr. Nisar Ahmad | Pro. Dr. Tahir Yaqub.
Material type: ; Literary form:
not fiction
Publisher: 2015Dissertation note: Tick infestation and the resulting transmission of serious pathogens in ruminants is one of the most important problems of the livestock industry in developing countries (Aktas et al. 2012).Bovine babesiosis is economically the most important tick-borne disease of cattle worldwide including areas of Australia, Africa, South and Central America. Babesia species are protozoan parasites that parasitize the erythrocytes of domestic animals and humans, causing Anemia in the host affected. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR), which is more sensitive and specific technique, offers an alternative approach for the diagnosis of Babesiosis (Zulfiqar et al. 2012).
Geo-climatic condition of Punjab, Pakistan favours the multiplication and survival of ticks which play a major role in the biological transmission of Tick Born Diseases. In earlier reports the prevalence of cattle tick infestation was more than 50% from Punjab (Durrani et al. 2008, Sajid et al. 2009).
Keeping in views the importance of the disease, the present study was carried out to determine the prevalence of Babesiosis in cattle of Lahore, District of the Punjab, Pakistan. A total of sixty (60) blood samples was collected randomly from dairy cattle of District Lahore. These samples were transported to the Laboratory of Parasitology, Department, University of Veterinary & Animal Sciences, Lahore and were kept at 4oc until further processing for Microscopic examination (Zakir et al. 2014) and then for PCR. We focused on the early detection of Babesiosis through Microscopic examination of Blood samples. For further confirmation of Babesiosis, the blood samples were processed through Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) as described by Zulfiqar et al. 2012.
The thick and thin smears of the blood samples were made on the new particularly labeled glass slides. The dried blood smears were fixed in absolute methyl alcohol for one
Summary
32
minute. Staining was performed using Giemsa Stain as method followed by Zakir et al. 2014 i.e. the glass slides bearing thick and thin blood smears were stained with one fourth of dilution of commercially available Giemsa stain for four minutes and were observed under oil immersion at 100X objective to detect the presence of Babesiosis.
All the blood samples were examined through Microscopy showing 04 positive ones, then all the samples were processed using PCR for final confirmation of Babesiosis in Cattle. PCR was performed under the conditions as previously described by Zulfiqar et al. 2012. PCR reaction was performed to obtain amplified products over 30 cycles by 94ºC for 5 min., 94ºC for 30 sec., 50ºC for 30 sec., 72ºC for 45 sec. and completed with a final extension step of 7 min. at 72ºC. Finally the amplified DNA fragments were analyzed after electrophoresis on 1.5% agarose gel.
Prevalence rate will be determined with the help of the following formula:
Prevalence rate = No. of positive samples / No of total samples x 100 Availability: Items available for loan: UVAS Library [Call number: 2404-T] (1).
7.
Study On Prevalence Of Intestinal Nematodes In Buffalo And Comparative Efficacy Of Herbal And Conventional Drugs Against Intestinal Nematodiosis In Buffalo Calves
by Abdul Rehman Qureshi (2014-VA-09) | Prof. Dr. Kamran Ashraf | Dr. Imran Rasheed | Prof. Dr. Aneela Zameer Durrani.
Material type: ; Literary form:
not fiction
Publisher: 2016Dissertation note: Parasites are a major cause of disease and production losses in livestock, frequently causing major economic loss and impacting on animal health. In livestock roundworms are deliberated the important economically upsetting internal parasites. Although buffalo can be diseased with tapeworms and flat worms, their effect on animal performance is minimal compared to the round worms. Buffalo feed on dry concentrate are less infected with parasite as compared to those who fed on pastures. The timing and frequency of anthelmintic treatments under such climatic conditions will vary greatly from place to place. Humid climates are permanently favorable for the development of infective larvae. With the frequently use of one or more dewormer animal produces anthelmintic resistance also its cost a lot for large herds. Herbal medicine is better option for control of intestinal worms. Herbal drugs are cheap, easy available and easy in administration.
The present study was designed to
1. Check the prevalence of intestinal nematodes in the buffalo population.
2. To determine the efficacy of herbal drugs against intestinal Nematodes in buffalo calves
3. To evaluate the comparison of effectiveness between herbal and commercial drugs to control the intestinal Nematodiosis in buffalo calves.
One hundred buffalo’s faecal samples were examined to check intestinal nematodes prevalence. All buffaloes belonging to various breeds were examined. 56 (93.33%) were Mix breed, 13 (72.22%) Nili Ravi breed and 18 (81.82%) of Kundi breed were positive for intestinal nematodiosis. 47
SUMMARY
Among the examined (87 %) buffaloes were found positive for nematodiosis. Ten buffaloes found positive (10 %) were less than 12 months, 25 buffaloes were between 1-2 year, 39% buffaloes were between 2 - 4 year and 13 buffaloes were above 4 years old were found positive for intestinal nematodiosis.
Among these buffaloes, 65 were male and 35 females. Out of male buffaloes 55 were found positive. While among 35 females 32 were positive for intestinal nematodes.
A total of 30 infected buffalo calves, of various ages (8-12 months), both sexes average body weight of 100 kg and naturally infected with intestinal nematodiosis were used for anthelmintic trials. These were randomly divided into 3 groups i.e. A, B, and C each having 10 calves. Group A and B were treated with herbal medicine. Group A was treated with dried powder Nigella Sativa (Kalonji) seeds at dose level of 250 mg/kg body weight. Group B was treated with Citrullus colocynthis (Kor Tumbha) fruit dried powder at dose level of 250 mg/kg body weight, group C was treated with Albandazole at dose level of 7.5 mg / kg body weight. The sample were taken on 0 day, 7th day, 14th, 21st and 28th day and EPG was determined by modified McMaster technique.
Statistical analysis was done using the statistical package for social science, (SPSS) version 20 (Chicago IL, USA). Data was presented as (mean+ S.D), the group descriptive measures were compared by CR Design (Anova) and applying differences were considered significant at P < 0.05. Post hoc test using Duncan multiple range test, to check the pair wise differences and alpha M. There was highly significant difference between commercial and herbal drugs. There was small significant difference between herbal drugs Nigella sativa and Citrullus 48
SUMMARY
colocynthis, both were highly effective against intestinal nematodiosis but less effective than Albandazole.
It is observed Nigella sativa dose showed a significant reduction in EPG .p value is p > .2284 at o day and at 7th day P>0.0146 ,at 14th day p> .0029 . There was also a significant decrease in EPG by Citrullus colocynthis but when compared these herbal drugs with commercial drugs the efficacy of herbal drug is 100 % at 21st day.
Recommendation.
Both herbal drugs Nigella sativa and Citrullus colocynthis used in trial were found highly effective against intestinal nematodiosis in buffalo calves but less effective than synthetic drug Albandazole hence, these herbal drugs cannot be recommended to be used as routine deworming of animals at farm level.
Keeping in view effectiveness of these herbal drugs in early age and having no side effects, it is recommended to be administered as feed additive to enhance immune-potentiation, effective anthelmintic and liver tonic.
There is dire need to carry out more research with increased dose rate of these herbal drugs and also use in combination with other herbal as well as synthetic drugs to evaluate its synergistic effect so farmer can be benefited of its maximum potential. Availability: Items available for loan: UVAS Library [Call number: 2637-T] (1).
8.
Genetic Identification And Characterization Of Pakistani Birds Of Perdicinae Subfamily (Partridge) Through Dna Barcoding Method
by Asim Iqbal Jutt (2013-VA-557) | Dr. Ali Raza Awan | Dr. Muhammad Wasim | Prof. Dr. Kamran Ashraf.
Material type: ; Literary form:
not fiction
Publisher: 2016Dissertation note: Pakistani birds of Perdicinae sub family are cage and game birds. Birds includes Altectoris chukar, Ammoperdix heyi, Ammoperdix griseogularis, Francolinus francolinus and Francolins pondicerianus. Traditional methods of identification were based on the phenotypical characterization of birds, which may lead to incorrect identification, so there was need to explore their characters at DNA level for accurate identification and to establish a DNA reference.
Birds of sub-family Perdicinae have not been genetically characterized in Pakistan. A new precise method “DNA barcoding” was applied using COI gene of mDNA for authentic identification and classification of these birds. Blood and tissue samples of five species (fifteen samples) were obtained. DNA of each sample was extracted by organic method. Amplification of CO1 gene was done by using a universal set of primers BIRDF1, BIRDR1. Sequence of 450bp were analyzed using bioinformatics softwares. Each sample was aligned with its reference sequence of COI gene available on NCBI. Every nucleotide position which did not align with the reference sequence was studied to identify SNPs. A common phylogenetic tree of all partridges showed that they have common ancestor about 0.7 million year ago, F.francolinus, F.pondicerianus and A.heyi shared a common clade whereas A.chukar made a separate clade from the ancestor. A.heyi and F.pondicerianus showed closed resemblance. It has been proved that DNA barcoding is an efficient and accurate molecular tool for species identification and phylogenetic implication. This study established a DNA Data Bank that helped scientists to investigate the biodiversity, taxonomic classification, species identification and also established foundations for molecular biologists to study taxonomic uncertainties at sub species level using SNP based identifying marker. Availability: Items available for loan: UVAS Library [Call number: 2714-T] (1).
9.
Anthelmintic Activity Of Ginger Against Gastrointestinal Nematodes In Goats
by Muhammad Shahid (2008-VA-127) | Dr. Haroon Akbar | Prof. Dr. Kamran Ashraf | Dr. Muhammad Avais.
Material type: ; Literary form:
not fiction
Publisher: 2016Dissertation note: Gastrointestinal tract nematodes are responsible for wide range of health problems,
economic losses in goats and are characterized by impaired milk production, meat process,
decreased fertility, low kidding rates, decreased working efficiency and even death of the goats.
Gastrointestinal tract nematodes cause economic losses via morbidity and negative effects on
feed intake, nutrient utilization efficacy and also reduce young animal’s growth rate as a result,
leading to decreased productivity and performance of the infected animal. Due to such economic
losses, the control of the helminths is unavoidable which is also possible by herbal products such
as Ginger. Ginger has pharmacological and gastrointestinal prokinetic activities to cure
constipation, indigestion, vomiting, infectious diseases and helminthiasis. In the current study,
anthelmintic activity of Ginger has been tested against gastrointestinal nematodes of goats.
For therapeutic trials, a total of 75 goats positive for nematodes having EPG >150 were
selected randomly and divided into three groups named as Group A, B and C, each group
comprising of 25 animals. The goats of Group A were orally treated with crude powder of ginger
(Zingiber officinale) @ 3 gram/kg body weight, orally. Goats in group B served as positive
control (infected and treated with Oxfendazole). Group C comprised of positive animals which
were not treated during whole the experiment. The fecal samples were collected at day 14 (Posttreatment).
Drug’s efficacy was assessed on the Fecal Egg Count Reduction Test (FECRT) and
was calculated by following formula (Traversa et al. 2007).
[((Pre-treatment EPG – Post-treatment EPG)) / Pre-treatment EPG] × 100
SUMMARY
34
Data regarding therapeutic trails were analyzed by repeated measures one-way ANOVA, using
SPSS version 20.0, p< 0.05 was considered as significant. Trial was analyzed under different
parameters.
Ginger has shown good anthelmintic activity against gastrointestinal nematodes in goats
as evident from 63% reduction in EPG. It is suggested hereby to conduct a dose trial for the use
of ginger against nematodes in goats by using different dose levels including at least 5 different
groups of dosages like 3gram; 3.5grams; 4grams; 4.5grams and 5grams per Kg body weight. The
current study has highlighted the anthelmintic activity of ginger (Zingiber officinale) against
gastrointestinal nematodes in goats. More trials using this herbal product in other animals will
further highlight the importance of using this commonly-available and economical herbal
product in the control of gastrointestinal nematodes in livestock. Availability: Items available for loan: UVAS Library [Call number: 2712-T] (1).
10.
Acaricide Resistance Of Tick Population Infesting Buffaloes In District Narowal
by Muhammad Mubashar Abdullah (2015-VA-1104) | Prof. Dr. Kamran Ashraf.
Material type: ; Literary form:
not fiction
Publisher: 2017Dissertation note: Tick imperviousness to acaricides is an expanding issue in Pakistan and represents a genuine financial danger to the domesticated animals and veterinary pharmaceutical enterprises. New acaricides are to a great degree costly to grow so the present acaricides ought to be viewed as a constantly decreasing asset, which ought to be ensured by all methods conceivable. The principle goal of the review was to distinguish the stages of tick imperviousness to acaricides at close business and collective ranges in District Narowal, Pakistan. Likewise to contrast the in vivo techniques and with explore acaricide administration procedures which may build the life expectancy by utilized acaricides.
To meet these points a field survey (February 2016 to March 2017) was carried out at 3 tehsils (Tehsil Narowal, Shakargharand Zafarwal cities of Pakistan to monitor levels of field tick resistance to acaricides. The larvae were originally obtained from engorged female A.hebraeum, Hyalloma, Boophilus, Dermacentor, Ixodes, R. appendiculatusand R. evertsievertsi. The larvaewere tested against different concentrations of trichlorofon, ivermectin and cypermethrin using the Shaw Larval Immersion Test (SLIT). Mortality dose data were subjected to probit analysis using a BMDP statistical package. Factors of resistance (FOR) were calculated by comparing the larval response of ticks from the field.
On the communal farms high levels of tick resistance were detected to cypermethrin as well as partial resistance to ivermectin whilst no resistance was detected against trichlorofon. On the commercial farms, however, ticks were equally resistant to trichlorofon, cypermethrin and ivermectin. The populations of Hyalloma, Boophilus, Dermacentor, Ixodes, on these farms had developed higher levels of resistance to the testacaricides than the equivalent R. evertsievertsi, R. appendiculatus and A.hebraeumpopulations. Higher levels of tick resistance to trichlorofonwas observed on3 tehsils (Tehsil Narowal, Shakarghar and Zafarwal)than on communal farms, however, there was no significant differences in tick resistance to ivermectin and cypermethrin at both the commercial and communal farms. It was surmised that inappropriate use of acaricides might have resulted in higher tick resistance to the currently available acaricides on the commercial as well as the communal farms. Correct acaricide usage may solve this problem to a limited extent.
Comparative in vivo tests were also carried out on the larvae and adults of Hyalloma, Boophilus, Dermacentor, Ixodes, to determine the susceptibility of this tick to different concentrationsof the currently used acaricides, (amitraz, ivermectin and cypermethrin) at three commercial dairy farms, (“Brycedale”, “Sunny Grove” and “Welgevind”) in the areas of District Narowal, Pakistan. Resistance of field strains of Hyalloma, Boophilus, Dermacentor, Ixodes, Dermacentor,were determined using the Adult Immersion Test (AIT) as the latter test took into account factors such as oviposition assessment and reproductive ability. At “Brycedale”, resistance to trichlorofon and ivermectin was detected with the AIT method. Emerging resistance to trichlorofon and resistance to ivermectin were also detected . At “Sunny Grove” resistance was detected to cypermethrin and at “Welgevind” resistance was detected to ivermectin with the SLIT whilst no resistance was detected using AIT. It would appear that the Hyalloma, Boophilus, Dermacentor, Ixodes, populations tested on these dairy farms were more resistant toivermectin than to trichlorofon or cypermethrin.
Nearly 50% of the dairy farms sampled showed resistance to ivermectin and the majority had susceptible Hyalloma, Boophilus, Dermacentor, Ixodes, populations to both amitraz and cypermethrin. In general there was a good correlation between the Cypermethrin and Trichlorofon whilst in many cases there was poor correlation between the Cypermethrin and Ivermectin.
From this study it would appear that the In vivo method was a reliable to detect resistance within seven days. In vitro method the ELT and the RET could possibly be used as screening methods to detect acaricide resistance on farms whilst the SLIT would remain the test of choice for National surveys. In addition the ELT is less costly and does not require sophisticated equipment for field testing if resistance development compared with other in vitro test methods. This method, however, still needs to be validated and standardized for use in Narowaland the rest of punjab where tick control is important.
Availability: Items available for loan: UVAS Library [Call number: 2849-T] (1).
11.
Acaricide Resistance Of Tick Population Infesting Buffaloes In District Narowal
by Muhammad Mubashir Abdullah (2015-VA-1104) | Prof. Dr. Kamran Ashraf | Dr. Muhammad Latif | Prof. Dr. Aftab Ahmad Anjum.
Material type: Publisher: 2017Dissertation note:
Tick imperviousness to acaricides is an expanding issue in Pakistan and represents a genuine financial danger to the domesticated animals and veterinary pharmaceutical enterprises. New acaricides are to a great degree costly to grow so the present acaricides ought to be viewed as a constantly decreasing asset, which ought to be ensured by all methods conceivable. The principle goal of the review was to distinguish the stages of tick imperviousness to acaricides at close business and collective ranges in District Narowal, Pakistan. Likewise to contrast the in vivo techniques and with explore acaricide administration procedures which may build the life expectancy by utilized acaricides.
To meet these points a field survey (February 2016 to March 2017) was carried out at 3 tehsils (Tehsil Narowal, Shakargharand Zafarwal cities of Pakistan to monitor levels of field tick resistance to acaricides. The larvae were originally obtained from engorged female A.hebraeum, Hyalloma, Boophilus, Dermacentor, Ixodes, R. appendiculatusand R. evertsievertsi. The larvaewere tested against different concentrations of trichlorofon, ivermectin and cypermethrin using the Shaw Larval Immersion Test (SLIT). Mortality dose data were subjected to probit analysis using a BMDP statistical package. Factors of resistance (FOR) were calculated by comparing the larval response of ticks from the field.
On the communal farms high levels of tick resistance were detected to cypermethrin as well as partial resistance to ivermectin whilst no resistance was detected against trichlorofon. On the commercial farms, however, ticks were equally resistant to trichlorofon, cypermethrin and ivermectin. The populations of Hyalloma, Boophilus, Dermacentor, Ixodes, on these farms had developed higher levels of resistance to the testacaricides than the equivalent R. evertsievertsi, R. appendiculatus and A.hebraeumpopulations. Higher levels of tick resistance to trichlorofonwas observed on3 tehsils (Tehsil Narowal, Shakarghar and Zafarwal)than on communal farms, however, there was no significant differences in tick resistance to ivermectin and cypermethrin at both the commercial and communal farms. It was surmised that inappropriate use of acaricides might have resulted in higher tick resistance to the currently available acaricides on the commercial as well as the communal farms. Correct acaricide usage may solve this problem to a limited extent.
Comparative in vivo tests were also carried out on the larvae and adults of Hyalloma, Boophilus, Dermacentor, Ixodes, to determine the susceptibility of this tick to different concentrationsof the currently used acaricides, (amitraz, ivermectin and cypermethrin) at three commercial dairy farms, (“Brycedale”, “Sunny Grove” and “Welgevind”) in the areas of District Narowal, Pakistan. Resistance of field strains of Hyalloma, Boophilus, Dermacentor, Ixodes, Dermacentor,were determined using the Adult Immersion Test (AIT) as the latter test took into account factors such as oviposition assessment and reproductive ability. At “Brycedale”, resistance to trichlorofon and ivermectin was detected with the AIT method. Emerging resistance to trichlorofon and resistance to ivermectin were also detected . At “Sunny Grove” resistance was detected to cypermethrin and at “Welgevind” resistance was detected to ivermectin with the SLIT whilst no resistance was detected using AIT. It would appear that the Hyalloma, Boophilus, Dermacentor, Ixodes, populations tested on these dairy farms were more resistant toivermectin than to trichlorofon or cypermethrin.
Nearly 50% of the dairy farms sampled showed resistance to ivermectin and the majority had susceptible Hyalloma, Boophilus, Dermacentor, Ixodes, populations to both amitraz and cypermethrin. In general there was a good correlation between the Cypermethrin and Trichlorofon whilst in many cases there was poor correlation between the Cypermethrin and Ivermectin.
From this study it would appear that the In vivo method was a reliable to detect resistance within seven days. In vitro method the ELT and the RET could possibly be used as screening methods to detect acaricide resistance on farms whilst the SLIT would remain the test of choice for National surveys. In addition the ELT is less costly and does not require sophisticated equipment for field testing if resistance development compared with other in vitro test methods. This method, however, still needs to be validated and standardized for use in Narowaland the rest of punjab where tick control is important.
Availability: No items available
