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Summary The ‘first night effect’ (FNE) is a well‐known phenomenon in polysomnographic (PSG) sleep studies, resulting in significant variations in the macrostructure of wakefulness and sleep states, particularly between the initial and subsequent sleep recording sessions. The FNE phenomenon during sleep has been studied in various species, revealing complex variations between several sessions of sleep recording. The present study used a non‐invasive PSG method to examine differences between various vigilance states in four adult female dromedary camels during 4 consecutive nights and days of sleep recording. The results indicate the presence of a FNE in the architecture of the dromedary camel's vigilance states. On the first night, the proportions of wakefulness and light non‐rapid eye movment (NREM) sleep (drowsiness) were higher, at a mean (standard error of the mean [SEM]) of 40.92% (0.88%) and 14.93% (0.37%), respectively; while the proportion of rumination (mean [SEM] 29.55% [0.92%]) was lower compared to consecutive nights. No FNE was found on deep NREM sleep, while night‐time REM sleep had a shorter proportion during the first night compared to subsequent consecutive nights. A significantly lower REM/total sleep time (TST) ratio was observed on the first night. Daytime comparisons did not show any significant differences for the different vigilance states. The increase in wakefulness and light NREM sleep and the reduction in REM sleep and REM/TST sleep on the first night indicate a decline in sleep quality in the dromedary camel due to the FNE. Thus, we recommend excluding from a PSG sleep study at least the first session/night of the recordings to ensure accurate results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was designed to explore the association between the immunolocalization of alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and S100 proteins within the efferent ductules (ED) from one side, and the sexual maturity and seasonality from the other side. For each season, tissue specimens were obtained from 7 adult and 7 juvenile, clinically healthy male dromedaries. Specimens were investigated by the standard immunohistochemical procedures. The immunohistochemical findings displayed that the pattern of expression was similar for both proteins, either in adults or in juveniles. Expression was significantly higher in adults during season of sexual activity (winter), fairly reduced during periods of transition from activity to inactivity (spring) or from inactivity to activity (autumn) and reaches its lowest magnitude during season of sexual inactivity (summer). On the other hand, a moderate immunoreactivity of both proteins in ED from juvenile male camels was nearly uniform throughout the year. The immunoreactivity for both α-SMA (smooth muscle cells in ductular and vascular walls) and S100 (ductular ciliated cells), was evident during periods of sexual activity. It can be concluded that the immunoreactivity is androgen- dependent and positively correlated with both of sexual activity and maturity, suggesting a crucial role of both α-SMA and S100 proteins in the regulation of the diverse functions of the ED in male dromedaries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reproductive efficiency of dromedary camels is hindered by challenges such as early embryonic mortality, which may be attributed to a lack of synchronization between conceptus signalling and uterine receptivity. Understanding the intricate biological processes involved in feto‐maternal interactions during implantation is crucial to address these limitations. Osteopontin (OPN) is a protein involved in cell signalling and adhesion, playing a crucial role in embryonic implantation. Previous studies have shown the presence of OPN in the uterine endometrium of various mammalian species including dromedary camels. However, the expression pattern of OPN in dromedary conceptuses remains unexplored. Thus, the current study aimed, for the first time, to investigate the temporospatial expression of OPN in dromedary conceptuses during the peri‐implantation period at Days 8, 10, and 12 of pregnancy. Twelve conceptuses were recovered non‐surgically from pregnant females on Days 8, 10, 12 of pregnancy. Quantitative real‐time PCR (qrt‐PCR), immunohistochemistry (IHC), and immunofluorescence (IF) were employed for analysis of the expression of OPN mRNA and protein. The results revealed significant increases in both OPN mRNA and protein expression started on Day 10 and peaked at Day 12 of pregnancy. Immuno‐localization confirmed the presence of OPN protein in the trophectoderm and endoderm of dromedary conceptuses. In conclusion, the expression and localization of OPN during the peri‐implantation period in dromedary conceptuses imply its involvement as a crucial reproductive factor and its upregulation during this period, with a pronounced increase close to attachment time (Day 12 of pregnancy) further supports its role in embryo adhesion, implantation, and placentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: In mammals, the cerebral cortex depends on a robust blood supply for optimal function. The rostral and caudal cerebral arteries are critical for supplying the cerebrum. This study presents the first detailed anatomical description of the rostral and caudal cerebral arteries of dromedary camels (Camelus dromedarius), including their origins, routes, and complex branching patterns. Methods: A sample of 55 heads from male dromedary camels aged 2-6 years was analyzed using advanced casting techniques with various casting materials to provide precise visualization of these arterial structures. Results: The rostral cerebral arteries originate dorsally from the rostral epidural rete mirabile (RERM), while the caudal cerebral arteries arise from the caudal communicating artery, which is another branch of the RERM. Both sets of arteries give rise to multiple cortical branches responsible for supplying the medial aspects of the frontal, parietal, and temporal lobes, as well as the medial and caudal regions of the occipital lobes. Conclusion: This study significantly expands our understanding of the cerebrovascular anatomy of dromedary camels. Our findings have potential implications for veterinary medicine in the diagnosis and treatment of neurological disorders in camels and may offer insights into broader comparative neuroscience research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to conduct a comparative analysis of the uterotubal junction in two distinct mammalian species, the bovine (Bos taurus) and the dromedary camel (Camelus dromedarius), focusing on histological and histomorphometric parameters. Uterotubal junction (UTJ) was dissected from 8 cows and 12 camels with dominant follicles, and processed for H&E staining for histology, and histomorphometry examination. The results showed that the camel uterotubal junction papillae (UTJP) existed only in camels and was completely absent in cattle. Histologically, the cow UTJ appears with a star‐shaped lumen, and the mucosa is lined by a simple columnar epithelium with ciliated and non‐ciliated cells. Superficial (SG) and deep glands (DG) were abundant in the submucosa. Camel UTJP is a conical structure, it has a pale yellowish colour, 0.5 ± 0.2 cm height, and 0.3 ± 0.1 cm width, and it has a distinct sphincter at the tip towards the uterine lumen. In the camel UTJP, the lumen is wider, and the mucosa showed large multiple folds lined with ciliated and non‐ciliated cells in a pseudostratified columnar epithelium. The submucosa showed no mucosal glands. Lumen area, lumen epithelial height, luminal epithelial density, the thickness of the muscular layer, number of folds, fold height, epithelial height, fold area and epithelial perimeter were higher in camel UTJP (p <.001) than cow UTJ, while the total endosalpinx area and glandular epithelial density were lower in camel UTJP (p <.001) than in cow UTJ. In conclusion, this study elucidates potential variations in the uterotubal junction between bovines and dromedary camels, providing valuable insights into their reproductive adaptations. The epithelial lining, absence of glands and the thick layer of tunica muscularis might indicate that camel UTJP could play a mechanical role in selecting spermatozoa and assisting the hatching of blastocysts during their passage into the uterus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The scenario of the fertile spermatozoa with high fertilizing capability is basically dependent on gene expression‐based epididymal function. The current investigation aimed to declare the varied expression of different candidate genes (PLA2G4D, LCN15, CLUAP1, SPP1, AQP12B, DEFB110 and ESR1) relevant to spermatozoa features between the different epididymal segments in the mature dromedary camels (n = 30). Scrotal contents were collected post‐slaughtering, during the breeding season and the epididymis was separated from the testicles and divided into three segments (caput, corpus and cauda) based on its morphology and anatomical characteristics. Epididymal spermatozoa were harvested from each epididymal portion and evaluated for motility, count, viability and morphology. Samples were grouped depending on their epididymal sperm cells features into high‐fertile (n = 15) and low‐fertile (n = 15) groups. The gene expression of the candidate genes was defined in the isolated RNA from each epididymal portion tissue. The segmental sperm motion and count were significantly (p <.05 and p <.01) higher in the three epididymal parts of high‐fertile camels than the lower ones. There were some candidate genes markedly up‐regulated in its expression in epididymal head of high‐fertile camels (PLA2G4D and LCN15) and low fertile (CLUAP1), while others in the body region of the high‐fertile group (SPP1, AQP12B and DEFB110). Nevertheless, ER1 did not differ in the expression among the epididymal segments. In conclusion, the variant expression patterns of these epididymal genes in relation to the regional spermatozoa features might suggest important roles of these genes in sperm maturation process in the epididymis and focusing more interest on their potential utility as markers for male camel fertility prediction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Camels are bred for their milk, meat, wool and hair, transportation, and their excrement as fuel. The seasonal reproduction of camel bull is accompanied by changes in sexual activity, the morphology, and function of the testes. This study aimed to evaluate the seasonal fluctuations in serum testosterone (T) levels as well as total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in the testes of dromedary bulls (Camelus dromedarius) during the rutting and non-rutting seasons. Moreover, the impact of rutting season on the testicular size and histomorphology was also observed. Seventy mature dromedary bulls were divided into a rutting group (n = 35) and a non-rutting group (n = 35). From these bulls, blood samples and testes were collected during the rutting season (October to April) and non-rutting season (May to September) from a local slaughterhouse. Results: All parameters changed significantly during rutting and non-rutting periods in camel bulls. The levels of TAC in testes, and serum T were significantly (P < 0.05) higher in the rutting group than in the non-rutting group. However, testicular MDA was significantly (P < 0.05) lower in the rutting group than in the non-rutting group. TAC was negatively correlated with MDA (r = -0.59, p < 0.01). Moreover, in the rutting group and the non-rutting group, T was positively correlated with levels of TAC (r = 0.66, p < 0.0003). Additionally, testicular size (length, breadth, and thickness) was significantly greater in camels during the rutting season than in camels during the non-rutting season. Moreover, the number and diameter of seminiferous tubules, and spermatogenesis increased during the rutting season, whereas, the collagen content and apoptosis increased during the non-rutting season. Conclusion: This study revealed that the rutting normal breeding season (NBS, rutting group) was associated with higher levels of total antioxidant capacity (TAC), T, and spermatogenic activity while the collagen content, concentrations of MDA (the oxidative stress factor) and apoptosis (an outcome of oxidative stress) were lower than those in the low breeding season (LBS, non-rutting group). In addition, the testicular size and seminiferous tubule diameter and number were higher during the NBS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Simple Summary: The post-partum gross examination of the fetal membranes is an efficient tool for detecting the abnormalities that might influence the survival, health, and future development of a newborn. The routine on-field gross evaluation of the placenta performed by veterinarians could represent a valuable tool for the management of dromedary camel (Camelus dromedaries) newborns. A description of the dromedary camel placenta was therefore performed in this study. Female dromedary camel parturitions were attended and placentas were collected, cleaned of sand, and observed. The chorionic surface appeared velvety and non-uniform in color, varying from pink to pale or bright red and often with dark red areas; the latter were located mainly around the uterine body portion or in the area outside the insertion of the umbilical cord. The pregnant horn portion was always bigger in size than that of the non-pregnant portion; the uterine body portion showed variability in shape and size. The allantoic surface showed variable appearance, from pearly white, to pink or red-bluish, depending on the background color of the chorionic surface, and was characterized by the presence of several blood vessels. The dromedary camel (Camelus dromedarius) fetal membranes, commonly referred to as "the placenta", are epitheliochorial, diffuse, and microcotyledonary, similarly to the mare's placenta. The evaluation of the placenta is an essential component of the neonatal evaluation in the equine species. However, post-partum or post-abortion placental assessment in dromedary camels is unfortunately too frequently neglected and, to the best of the authors' knowledge, the dromedary camel species lacks a comprehensive description of the normal placenta's gross morphology. In order to facilitate its on-field evaluation, the current study describes the macroscopic features of the placenta of the dromedary camel after full-term pregnancy and spontaneous parturition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pregnancy maintenance in dromedary camels poses significant challenges, including early embryonic loss in the left uterine horn (LH) and unsuccessful pregnancy in the right uterine horn (RH), suggesting a potential asynchrony between conceptus signaling and uterine receptivity. The transition of the uterine epithelium from a pre-receptive to a receptive state requires a delicate balance of adhesion-promoting and anti-adhesion molecules. Mucin-1 (MUC1) acts as an anti-adhesive molecule on the uterine luminal (LE) and glandular (GE) epithelium. Downregulation of MUC1 is believed to be crucial for successful embryo attachment in various mammals. This study aimed to investigate the temporospatial expression of MUC1 in the LH and RH on Days 8, 10, and 12 pregnant dromedaries and their conceptuses. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qrt-PCR), Western blot analysis, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence techniques were employed to assess MUC1 expression at the mRNA and protein levels. The results demonstrated a reduction in MUC1 mRNA expression on Day 8, then increased on Day 10, followed by a decrease on Day 12 in LH. While the RH exhibited progressive increases, peaking on Day 12. However, MUC1 expression constantly exhibited higher levels in RH than in LH in all days. Two bands were detected at 150-kDa and 180-kDa, with the highest intensity observed on Day 10. Spatially, MUC1 was localized in the apical, cytoplasmic, and lumen of uterine glands only. MUC1 was barely detectable on Day 8 but gradually increased on Days 10 and 12 in both horns. Likewise, the RH exhibited higher MUC1 signals than the LH on Days 10 and 12. In the conceptuses, MUC1 mRNA increased on Day 8, peaked on Day 10, and declined on Day 12. Notably, MUC1 protein was detected in both the trophectoderm and endoderm, with high expression observed on Day 10 and reduced by Day 12. In conclusion, the decrease in MUC1 expression on Day 8 in the LH may be associated with maternal recognition of pregnancy (MRP), and the increase on Day 10 may related to embryo protection and movement, while the subsequent decrease on Day 12 could be linked to the embryo attachment and preparation for the implantation. Conversely, the increase of MUC1 in the RH implies a role in the anti-adhesion mechanism. These findings contribute to understanding MUC1's involvement in reproductive processes and provide insights into the complex mechanisms underlying successful pregnancy establishment and maintenance in dromedary camels. • Differential expression patterns of MUC1 in LH and RH of dromedary camels suggest potential functional specialization. • MUC1 reduction in LH and conceptus on Day 8 may be associated with MRP. • MUC1 elevation in LH and conceptus on Day 10 may play role in embryo movement. • MUC1 reduction in LH and conceptus on Day 12 may contribute to embryo attachment. • The increase of MUC1 in RH implies a crucial role as anti-adhesion mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main functions of the mammalian cecum include microbial digestion of soluble and insoluble carbohydrates and the absorption of significant amounts of water and electrolytes. The present study was carried out to investigate the gross anatomy and electron microscopy of the cecum in adult camels (Camelus dromedarius), which still needs to be clarified. The study was conducted using samples collected from camels slaughtered at an abattoir in Omdurman, Sudan. The camel cecum, which occupied the right part of the abdomen, was situated caudally to the abomasum and directed caudally to the pelvis. It was short and S-shaped and began largely at the ceco-colic junction at the level of the fifth lumbar vertebra and became smaller towards its apex. Morphometrically, camel cecum constituted 3.2% of the large intestine length, 1% of both the small intestine and large intestine length, and 0.10% of the long axis of the animal body. Ultra-structurally, the cecal mucosa showed several folds and was lined by a simple columnar epithelium with many intestinal cells (enterocytes) and goblet cells; two types of enterocytes were shown: type one contained a dark cytoplasm and type two had a light cytoplasm. In conclusion, the cecum in dromedary camels was generally similar in structure to other domestic animals; however, they have a shorter cecum compared to ruminants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Dromedary camels robustly withstand dehydration, and the rough desert environment but the adaptationmechanisms are not well understood. One of these mechanisms is that the dromedary camel increases its body temperature to reduce the process of evaporative cooling during the hot weather. Stress in general, has deleterious effects in the body. In this study, we sought to determine the effects of dehydration and rehydration on stress parameters in the dromedary camels and how it pacifies these effects. Methods: Nineteen male camels were randomly divided into control, dehydrated and rehydrated groups, and fed alfalfa hay ad-libitum. The dehydrated and rehydrated groups were water-restricted for 20 days after which the rehydrated camels were provided with water for 72 h. The control and dehydrated camels were slaughtered at day 20 from the start of experiment whereas the rehydrated group was killed 72 h later. Many biochemical, hematological histopathological parameters and gene analysis were performed in relevant tissues collected including blood, plasma, and tissues. Results and discussion: It was observed that severely dehydrated camels lost body weight, passed very hard feces, few drops of concentrated urine, and were slightly stressed as reflected behaviorally by loss of appetite. Physiologically, the stress of dehydration elicited modulation of plasma stress hormones for water preservation and energy supply. Our results showed significant increase in cortisol, norepinephrine and dopamine, and significant decrease in epinephrine and serotonin. The significant increase in malondialdehyde was accompanied with significant increase in antioxidants (glutathione, retinol, thiamin, tocopherol) to provide tissue protection from oxidative stress. The physiological blood changes observed during dehydration serve different purposes and were quickly restored to normality by rehydration. The dehydrated/rehydrated camels showed reduced hump size and serous atrophy of perirenal and epicardial fat. The latter changes were accompanied by significantly increased expression of genes encoding proteins for energy production (ANGPTL4, ACSBG1) from fat and significantly decreased expression of genes (THRSP; FADS 1&2) encoding proteins enhancing energy expenditure. This process is vital for camel survival in the desert. Dehydration induced nomajor effects in the vital organs. Onlyminor degenerative changes were observed in hepatic and renal cells, physiological cardiomyocyte hypertrophy in heart and follicular hyperplasia in splenic but lipidosis was not depicted in liver hepatocytes. Ketone bodies were not smelled in urine, sweat and breathing of dehydrated animals supporting the previous finding that the ß hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase, a key enzyme in ketone body formation, is low in the camel liver and rumen. Rehydration restored most of blood and tissues to normal or near normal. In conclusion, camels are adapted to combat dehydration stress and anorexia by increasing anti-stressors and modulating genes involved in fat metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) was identified in humans in 2012. Since then, 2605 cases and 937 associated deaths have been reported globally. Camels are the natural host for MERS-CoV and camel to human transmission has been documented. The relationship between MERS-CoV shedding and presence of neutralizing antibodies in camels is critical to inform surveillance and control, including future deployment of camel vaccines. However, it remains poorly understood. The longitudinal study conducted in a closed camel herd in Egypt between December 2019 and March 2020 helped to characterize the kinetics of MERS-CoV neutralizing antibodies and its relation with viral shedding. Results: During the 100-day longitudinal study, 27 out of 54 camels (50%) consistently tested negative for presence of antibodies against MERS-CoV, 19 (35.2%) tested positive and 8 (14.8%) had both, positive and negative test results. Fourteen events that could be interpreted as serological indication of probable infection (two seroconversions and twelve instances of positive camels more than doubling their optical density ratio (OD ratio) in consecutive samples) were identified. Observed times between the identified events provided strong evidence (p = 0.002) against the null hypothesis that they occurred with constant rate during the study, as opposed to clustering at certain points in time. A generalized additive model showed that optical density ratio (OD ratio) is positively associated with being an adult and varies across individual camels and days, peaking at around days 20 and 90 of the study. Despite serological indication of probable virus circulation and intense repeated sampling, none of the tested nasal swab samples were positive for MERS-CoV RNA, suggesting that, if the identified serological responses are the result of virus circulation, the virus may be present in nasal tissue of infected camels during a very narrow time window. Conclusions: Longitudinal testing of a closed camel herd with past history of MERS-CoV infection is compatible with the virus continuing to circulate in the herd despite lack of contact with other camels. It is likely that episodes of MERS-CoV infection in camels can take place with minimal presence of the virus in their nasal tissues, which has important implications for future surveillance and control of MERS-CoV in camel herds and prevention of its zoonotic transmission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reproductive activity of the male dromedary camel (Camelus dromedarius) as a seasonal breeder is affected by various seasonal changes that reflect on the reproductive performance. In the current study, we explored a differential cellular localization of lectins in eight dromedary camel testes utilizing lectin histochemistry (LHC). The glycoconjugates' localizations were detected within the testicular tissue utilizing 13 biotin-labeled lectins (PNA, ConA, LCA, RCA120, GS IB4, WGA, BPL, DBA, ECA, PHA-E4, UEA-1, PTL-II, and SBA) distributed into six sets. The cellular structures revealed diverse lectins distribution that may reflect various glycoproteins' structures and their compositional modifications during spermatogenesis. Some of the investigated lectins were restricted to acrosomes of spermatids that will help study different stages during the spermatogenic cycle of dromedary camel, particularly PNA, and ECA. The statistical analysis showed a marked positive correlation between the response intensity of various lectins and the breeding season (P < 0.05). We can conclude that lectins have a fundamental role during camel spermatogenesis and are associated with the reproductive activity of dromedary camel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tumors have been rarely documented in the Arabian dromedary (Camelus dromedarius). Importantly, the current study investigated multiple primary tumors in the liver of dromedary camels, slaughtered at different abattoirs in Egypt during the period from January 2019 to February 2022. The study focused on the existence of two or more separate primary neoplasms, or one involving multiple sites in the same liver. The study conducted a comprehensive and accurate gross and histopathological description of the neoplastic cases. The use of special stains and diverse types of immunohistochemical-specific antibodies contributed significantly to the confirmed diagnosis of neoplastic cells. Interestingly, our results diagnosed unusual multiple primary hepatic tumors (prevalence 7/988, 0.7%), including one case each of cholangiocarcinoma-leiomyosarcoma, hemangiosarcoma-cholangiocarcinoma-leiomyoma, myelolipoma-osseous metaplasia, lymphosarcoma and three cases of leiomyomas. Detecting multiple primary hepatic tumors for the first time in the veterinary research area is a major challenge in the diagnosis and treatment strategies of tumors. Additionally, liver cirrhosis, amyloidosis, parasitic infection, and mycotic granuloma may be predisposing factors associated with increased overgrowth of primary mesenchymal hepatic tumors in camels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surra is a zoonotic disease caused by Trypanosoma evansi (T. evansi), which affects a wide variety of animals worldwide. The disease has a severe impact on the productivity, health, and working capacity of camels and causes mortality and extensive economic losses if not diagnosed early. This is the first comprehensive report on the prevalence of T. evansi infection in dromedaries in Balochistan province. In the present study, 393 blood samples (indigenous, n = 240; imported, n=153) were collected from one-humped camels (Camelus dromedarius) and were tested by molecular methods to estimate the prevalence of T. evansi in three districts (Pishin, Nushki, and Lasbella) of Balochistan province. The overall prevalence of T. evansi among examined camel samples was 28.24% (95% confidence interval (CI): 24.02–32.89%). The risk of T. evansi infection in adult camels (> 10 years) is higher than that in young ones (odd-ration (OR) = 2.7; 95% CI: 1.3357–5.3164%). Moreover, male camels were six times more likely to get an infection than female camels. The detection of T. evansi infection in camels sampled in summer and spring was 3.12- and 5.10-fold higher, respectively, than in camels sampled in winter. In conclusion, our findings showed a high rate of T. evansi infection in camels from the three districts. Our study emphasizes the need for a strict surveillance program and risk assessment studies as prerequisites for control measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hepatitis E virus (HEV) genotype 7 is a zoonotic disease detected in dromedary camels. Hypothesis/objectives: The consumption of camel meat and dairy products, the abundance of dromedary camels in Southeast Iran and the import of camels from neighbouring countries to Iran made the researchers investigate the infection rate of camels by the virus. Animals: A total of 53 healthy camels in Southeast Iran (Sistan and Baluchistan Province) tested for HEV RNA. Method: A total of 17 blood samples and 36 liver samples were taken from 53 healthy dromedary camels (aged between 2 and 10 years) from various southeastern regions of Iran. The samples were tested for HEV using RT‐PCR. Results: Overall, 56.6% of the studied samples (n = 30) tested positive for HEV RNA. Conclusions and clinical importance: The present study was the first of its kind in Iran and revealed the presence of HEV in the Iranian dromedary camel population, which might play the role of a zoonosis reservoir for its transmission to humans. This discovery raises concerns about food‐borne illnesses that can be transmitted from animals to humans. However, further research is needed to identify the specific genotype of the HEV in Iranian dromedary camel infections and to determine the risk of spread to other animals and humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Paratuberculosis (PTB) or John's disease is a chronic disease of ruminants impeding the reproduction and productivity of the livestock sector worldwide. Since there is a lack of pathological studies explaining the nature and development of the disease in camels, this study aimed to highlight the anatomopathological changes of PTB in camels, which may help in verifying and validating some diagnostic tests used to detect the etiology of the disease in camel tissues. Materials and Methods: In August 2017, at Alselaa border's Veterinary Clinic of Al Dhafra Region, Western Abu Dhabi, UAE, one imported culled she-camel of 2 years old was subjected to clinical, microscopic, and anatomopathological investigations along with real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (q-PCR) to confirm the infection and correlate between clinical signs and pathological lesions of the PTB in dromedary camels. Results: Clinically, typical clinical signs compliant with the pathognomonic gross and histologic lesions of PTB were seen in naturally infected dromedary camel. As presumptive diagnosis microscopically, acid-fast coccobacillus bacterium clumps were demonstrated in direct fecal smears as well as in scraped mucosal and crushed mesenteric lymph node films, and in histopathological sections prepared from a necropsied animal and stained by Ziehl-Neelsen stain. Free and intracellular acid-fast clump phagosomes were further confirmed as Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis by q-PCR. Conclusion: Clinical signs and pathological lesions of paratuberculosis in a dromedary camel were found to be similar to those of the other susceptible hosts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Anaplasmosis, an underestimated disease transmitted by ticks, is widespread in ruminants, such as the Arabian camel (dromedary camel). This study aimed to examine the presence of Anaplasma marginale in dromedary camels in the Al-Hiadyia region of the Al-Najaf desert, Iraq, using serological and molecular tests. Moreover, hematological and biochemical changes in infected animals were compared with those in healthy controls. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted on 30 healthy and 260 infected camels with severe anemia, pale mucus membranes, and progressive emaciation to investigate antibodies against A. marginale using indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, followed by polymerase chain reaction for selected positive samples targeting a specific region of A. marginale major surface protein 5 (MSP5). In addition, hematological and biochemical parameters were measured to indicate the effect of the disease on blood profile, mineral status, and liver and kidney functions. Results: Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay analysis and microscopic examination revealed that 115/260 (44.23%) and 87 (33.46%) camels were positive for Anaplasma spp., respectively. The MSP5 gene, which is unique to A. marginale, was amplified. The results of hematological analysis indicated a significant decrease in total red blood cells, hemoglobin, and packed cell volume and a significant increase in mean corpuscular volume in infected camels, but no difference in mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration. Moreover, there was a significant increase in total white blood cells count, lymphocytes, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and platelets. The results of biochemical analysis indicated a significant increase in the levels of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, and iron and a decrease in copper in infected camels. Cholesterol and triglyceride showed no significant variations between healthy and diseased camels. Conclusion: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first molecular study to demonstrate the presence of A. marginale in dromedary camels in Iraq. The MSP5 gene is a valuable and unique diagnostic target for identifying A. marginale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Resistin, an adipocyte-specific hormone involved in insulin resistance and adipocyte differentiation, was initially identified in adipose tissue and macrophages. The physiological role of this molecule in camels remains largely unexplored. This study analysed for the first time blood and tissue levels of resistin as well as expression of resistin gene by real time PCR in adipose tissue (hump, visceral & epididymal) and different muscles (gastrocnemius, heart and caecum) in dromedary camels. The results revealed that resistin concentration was significantly (P<0.01) higher in epididymal adipose tissue as compared to other tissues and the lowest concentration was detected in serum. Additionally, the differential mRNA expression levels of resistin gene showed the highest expression level in epididymal adipose tissue as compared to other tissues. In conclusion, the results demonstrated for the first time that resistin was expressed in different tissues of dromedary camels. These data underscore an important facet of the physiological role of resistin as a factor involved in insulin resistance and glucose metabolism in camels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oocytes experience detrimental osmotic stress during vitrification and warming procedures because of the osmolality imbalance between the vitrification‐warming fluids and the intracellular environment. Cellular osmotic homeostasis can be preserved by glycine, a powerful osmolyte with antioxidant properties. We aimed to examine the influences of supplementing glycine to the vitrification solutions (VS) on the developmental potential of vitrified/warmed immature dromedary camel oocytes following IVM/IVF and in vitro embryo culture (IVC). Cumulus oocyte complexes (COCs) were collected from dromedary camel ovaries and randomly allocated into two groups namely control (oocytes subjected directly to IVM) and vitrified (COCs were vitrified into VS supplemented with 0.0, 0.5, 1.0 or 2.0 mM glycine). For vitrification, COCs were equilibrated for 3 min in 12.5% ethylene glycol; EG plus 12.5% dimethyl sulfoxide; DMS and then they were vitrified for 60 s in VS composed of 25% EG + 25% DMSO using solid surface vitrification (SSV). Warming of vitrified oocytes was conducted in decreasing concentrations of trehalose solution. Following vitrification and warming, the morphologically viable oocytes were subjected to IVM for 36 h. Matured oocytes were then fertilized in vitro by epididymal spermatozoa and cultured for seven days. The results showed that the percentage of viable oocytes assessed by trypan blue stain was significantly higher (p ≤.05) in the 1.0 mM glycine‐supplemented group than 0.0‐ and 2.0‐mM glycine‐supplemented ones (90.0 % vs. 80.0% and 76.6%, respectively). However, no significant difference was observed between 0.5 mM glycine and other vitrified groups. Nuclear maturation rates, cleavage (48‐h post‐insemination; pi) and blastocyst rate (7‐days pi) were significantly lower in vitrified groups than control ones (p ≤.05). Among vitrified groups, these parameters were the highest in the 1.0 mM glycine‐supplemented group. Taken together, supplementation of vitrification solutions with 1.0 mM glycine could enhance the developmental potential of vitrified/warmed immature dromedary camel oocytes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pregnancy in camels is established and maintained predominantly in the left uterine horn (98% frequency), whereas pregnancies occurring in the right horn result in early embryonic death. Aside from other reasons such as asynchrony of conceptus signaling and uterine receptivity, this phenomenon contributes to low reproductive efficiency in camels. The current research focuses on the expression of osteopontin (OPN), an extracellular matrix protein and adhesion molecule involved in implantation in mammals. Based on the differences in the pregnancy rate between the left and right horns, the temporal and spatial OPN expression was analyzed during the peri-implantation period on Days 8, 10, and 12. Results showed that OPN expression on Day 10 significantly increased by 14.5 fold in the left and 8.4-fold in the right uterine horn. By Day 12, OPN expression increased to 39.4 fold in the left and increased 7-fold in the right horn compared with non-mated females. Only the full length, 70-kDa OPN, was detected and upregulated with advancing pregnancy, with higher intensity in the left uterine horns than in the right. Spatially, OPN was predominantly localized on the apical uterine luminal and glandular epithelium in all camels. Moreover, OPN was detected in the stratum compactum stroma of pregnant camels. In conclusion, OPN mRNA and protein were detected and upregulated during the peri-implantation period, with higher OPN expression detected in the left uterine horn than in the right. OPN may be regulated by the presence of the embryo in the left uterine horn due to its role in embryo adhesion, implantation and placentation. • Osteopontin (OPN) is differentially expressed in both uterine horns during the peri-implantation period of dromedary camels. • OPN was more highly expressed and localized in the left uterine horn than in the right. • OPN may be regulated by the presence of the embryo and play a key role in embryo adhesion and implantation in the left horn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Mastitis is one of the most challenging diseases of dairy animals, with a high impact on animal production and welfare. The development of mastitis vaccines requires deep understanding of host–pathogen interaction mechanisms in the mammary gland. In the present study, we investigated the immunomodulatory effect of selected Toll-like receptor (TLR) ligands, representing gram-positive and gram-negative bacterial mastitis pathogens, on the phenotype and function of milk immune cells in a whole milk stimulation assay. The analysis of stimulation-induced shape change, change in the expression of cell surface markers, phagocytosis, apoptosis, ROS production, and NETosis revealed selective modulating effects of the TLR ligands LPS and Pam3CSK4 on camel milk immune cells. These results may have implications for the use of synthetic TLR agonists as immunomodulatory adjuvants of the immune response to intra-mammary vaccines against mastitis pathogens. (1) Toll-like receptors (TLR) are a family of pattern recognition receptors that sense distinct molecular patterns of microbial origin. Although the immune cell composition of camel milk has been recently described, host–pathogen interaction studies in the camel mammary gland are still scarce. The present study aimed to use a whole milk stimulation assay for investigating the modulatory effect of selected Toll-like receptor (TLR) ligands on the phenotype and function of milk immune cells. (2) Methods—camel milk samples (n = 7) were stimulated in vitro with the TLR4 ligand LPS or the TLR2/1 ligand Pam3CSK4, and separated milk cells were evaluated for stimulation-induced shape change, the expression of cell surface markers, phagocytosis, apoptosis, ROS production, and NETosis. Stimulation with PMA was used as a control stimulation. (3) Results—all stimulants induced shape change in milk cells, change in the expression of several cell markers, and increased cell apoptosis and NETosis. In addition, stimulation with Pam3CSK4 and PMA was associated with enhanced ROS production, while only PMA stimulation resulted in enhanced bacterial phagocytosis by milk immune cells. (4) Conclusions—our data indicates selective modulating effects of the TLR ligands LPS and Pam3CSK4 on camel milk phagocytes. These results may have implications for the use of synthetic TLR agonists as immunomodulatory adjuvants of the immune response to intra-mammary vaccines against mastitis pathogens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most of the time, castration is an elective procedure performed to make the camel docile and manage its behavior. There are also instances, where it is performed as a treatment of testicular abnormalities such as orchitis, irreparable traumatic injuries, and tumors. In the current study, a 7‐year‐old bull dromedary camel was brought to Addis Ababa University College of Veterinary Medicine and Agriculture, Feseha Gebre Ab VTH, with a history of recurrent swelling of the left testicle for a month. Based on history and clinical examination, the case was diagnosed as unilateral orchitis and admitted for open castration of both testes. Two percent lidocaine hydrochloride was injected into each testicle to provide a spermatic nerve block, and then, two parallel incisions were made through the scrotal skin on either side of the median raphe. The testicles were pulled out through these incisions, ligated, and transected. The scrotal incisions were left open to heal by themselves. Postoperatively, antibiotic and anti‐inflammatory drugs were administered for 3 successive days. Finally, the camel was regularly followed for 1 week and recovers uneventfully. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Virus emergence may occur through interspecies transmission and recombination of viruses coinfecting a host, with potential to pair novel and adaptive gene combinations. Camels are known to harbor diverse ribonucleic acid viruses with zoonotic and epizootic potential. Among them, astroviruses are of particular interest due to their cross-species transmission potential and endemicity in diverse host species, including humans. We conducted a molecular epidemiological survey of astroviruses in dromedaries from Saudi Arabia and Bactrian camels from Inner Mongolia, China. Herein, we deployed a hybrid sequencing approach coupling deep sequencing with rapid amplification of complementary deoxyribonucleic acid ends to characterize two novel Bactrian and eight dromedary camel astroviruses, including both partial and complete genomes. Our reported sequences expand the known diversity of dromedary camel astroviruses, highlighting potential recombination events among the astroviruses of camelids and other host species. In Bactrian camels, we detected partially conserved gene regions bearing resemblance to human astrovirus types 1, 4, and 8 although we were unable to recover complete reading frames from these samples. Continued surveillance of astroviruses in camelids, particularly Bactrian species and associated livestock, is highly recommended to identify patterns of cross-species transmission and to determine any epizootic threats and zoonotic risks posed to humans. Phylogenomic approaches are needed to investigate complex patterns of recombination among the astroviruses and to infer their evolutionary history across diverse host species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The gastrointestinal microbiome plays a significant role in diet digestion and the energy production of its host. This study investigated the influence of sex on the fecal microbiome of camels. Our findings revealed sex differences in the composition and function of fecal microbiomes. This research, to the best of our knowledge, is the first characterization of the fecal core bacteriomes of male and female dromedary camels. The variation in the intestinal microbial communities between male and female dromedary camels lies in the abundance and prevalence of taxa rather than in the presence and absence of bacterial taxa. The gastrointestinal microbiome plays a significant role in diet digestion and the energy production of its host. Several factors that affect the gastrointestinal microbiota composition were studied in camels. Yet, the impact of sex on the gastrointestinal bacteriome of camels remains unexplored to date. In this perspective, the fecal microbiome community composition from dromedary camels was determined in 10 male and 10 female samples using the 16S rRNA amplicon, in order to estimate if this was influenced by sex. The core microbiome in females contained 284 bacterial OTUs and one archaeal OUT, whereas in males, it contained 279 bacterial OTUs and one archaeal OTU. In females, Bacteroidetes and Spirochaetes were significantly more abundant than in male camels, whereas Lentisphaerae and Euryarchaeota were significantly abundant in males. According to Principal Coordinate Analysis and UPGMA clustering, grouping with respect to sex was observed. The functional prediction results showed differences such as energy production and conversion, and that the cell wall/membrane/envelope were enriched in female camels. The fecal microbiome of male camels was rich in amino acid, lipid transport and metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dromedary bulls exhibit particularly suboptimal semen quality. In this species, standard breeding soundness evaluation (BSE) often cannot catch the subtle difference between fertile and subfertile males. Therefore, the aim was to explore novel diagnostic tools to predict fertility and recognize subfertility in dromedary bulls. We explored the relationship between semen quality, fertility, echotexture parameters, accessory glands volume and total testosterone. Two sets of experiments were performed: in vitro (semen group) and in vivo (natural mating group). Each group was assessed by standard BSE: clinical examination, testis volume, ultrasound analysis of testicular parenchyma (TP) and epididymis. For the first time, images of epididymal head were obtained. Testis volume was not correlated to any parameters studied. Ultrasound TP showed especially low sensitivity (20 % in vitro and 14 % in vivo). The standard BSE was found unsuccessful in assessing subfertility. Therefore, animals were then submitted to advanced BSE: digital image analysis of TP, assessment of accessory glands (prostate (P) and bulbourethral (BB) glands) and serum total testosterone concentration. Upon analysis, significant correlations were found among some echotexture parameters (white pixels, mean grey levels, area and density of hypoechogenic areas) and percentage of viability, head defects, mitochondria potential and fertility. Only white pixels showed strong sensitivity (86 %) and specificity (100 %). BB volume correlated with ejaculate volume. Total testosterone concentration did not correlate with any parameters studied. In conclusion, advanced BSE (digital ultrasound image analysis and accessory glands volume) proved to be a useful tool for predicting semen quality and detecting subfertility in dromedary camels. • Testicular echogenicity can be objectively assessed using digital image analysis. • Digital ultrasound image analysis detects subtle changes in fertile and subfertile males. • Testicular echogenicity can predict vitality, head defects and mitochondrial potential. • Accessory glands volume can predict semen quality in dromedary camels. • Testosterone and testicular size do not predict fertility in dromedary camels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to assess the ability of camel spermatozoa to bind in the Hyaluronan Binding Assay (HBA), to determine if conventional sperm quality parameters, in vitro fertilization capacity, and precursor of A-Kinase Anchoring Protein 4 (proAKAP4) values correlate with HBA results. The potential to predict post-thaw fertilization performance from HBA for fresh dromedary camel sperm was also evaluated. Semen samples were collected and assessed both fresh and post thawing, at 0 h and 1.5 h. Conventional semen analysis, HBA, and a proAKAP4 biomarker-test were used to validate sperm quality. A heterologous sperm penetration assay using zona pellucida-free goat oocytes was used to assess in vitro sperm fertilizing capacity. The results showed that dromedary camel spermatozoa bound to hyaluronan with no correlation between results from fresh samples and after thawing. Furthermore, the proAKAP4 test results showed a negative correlation with HBA at 0 h after thawing (r = - 0.62; P = 0.03). In the conventional analysis, only progressive motility (r = 0.65; P = 0.02) and straightness correlated with HBA for fresh semen (r = 0.69; P = 0.01). In the sperm penetration assay, a moderate but non-significant correlation was identified between fresh sperm HBA and penetration (r = 0.52; P = 0.07). In conclusion, results suggested that HBA can be used to assess camel sperm properties, but further investigation is needed to understand its correlation with other sperm quality parameters. The HBA score from fresh dromedary camel sperm was unable to predict post-thaw fertilization performance. • Dromedary camel spermatozoa bound to hyaluronan. • ProAKAP4 showed a negative correlation with HBA results at 0 h after thawing. • Progressive motility and straightness correlated with the HBA for fresh semen. • There was moderate but non-significant correlation between HBA and penetration [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Veterinarska Stanica is the property of Croatian Veterinary Institute and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background and Aim: Bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) is one of the most important viral pathogens causing high economic losses in cattle of all ages. Despite the active vaccination campaigns against BVDV, many outbreaks are still detected in various populations of cattle worldwide. Other species of animals such as dromedary camels, sheep, and goats may harbor BVDV infection and cause variable clinical syndromes. Thus, they may act as a source of infection to the cattle population around them. However, little is still known about the roles of these animals in the viral transmission and sustainability of BVDV in the environment. This study aimed to explore if the dromedary camels, sheep, and goats may seroconvert against BVDV and to study some associated risk factors for BVDV in these species of animals. Materials and Methods: We tested 1012 serum samples from dromedary camels, 84 from goats, and 21 from sheep for BVDV antibodies using commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits. Meanwhile, we selected 211 serum samples from dromedary camels to be tested for the BVDV antigen using the commercial ELISA kits. Results: Our results show that 49/1117 serum samples were positive for the BVDV antibodies in dromedary camels (46/1012), goats (3/84), and none of the tested sheep samples were positive. However, none of the collected serum samples tested positive for the BVDV antigen. Conclusion: Seroconversion of some dromedary camels, sheep, and goats to the BVDV with no history of vaccination against BVDV strongly suggests the potential roles of these species of animals in the virus transmission cycle. The main limitations of the current study are (1) the lack of samples from other species of animals that lived close by these animals, particularly cattle. (2) lack of follow-up samples from the same animal over a long period. We believe the long-term longitudinal study of BVDV in various species of animals, particularly dromedary camels, goats, and sheep, is one of our future research directions. This will provide more information about the dynamics of BVDV antibodies in these species of animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Retroviral infections have been reported in many species of animals, especially cattle, sheep and goats. However, there are no available reports about retrovirus infection in dromedary camels. Several dromedary camels showed visible tumor‐like lesions on and around the nostrils as well as around the eyes. Objectives: Following are the objectives: to identify the causative agents of these identified tumours in dromedary camels and to perform molecular characterization of the detected strains of the causative agent. Methods: We extracted the nucleic acids from some fresh lesions out of these animals, and then amplified some key retrovirus genes. We amplified several regions of the rotavirus genome using the PCR technique. The obtained sequences were assembled and the phylogenetic trees were conducted per each target retrovirus gene. Results: Our results revealed a high degree of identity to some retroviruses of sheep. Phylogenetic analysis based on some retrovirus genes revealed that the causative agents of these lesions are closely related to sheep retroviruses, particularly the Jaagsiekte sheep Retrovirus (JSRV) and the ENTV. Conclusions: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of retrovirus infections in dromedary camels in the Arabian Peninsula. This highlights the possible species jump for the retrovirus from sheep and goats to the dromedary camels, which live in close proximity with these animals in many parts of the world, especially the Arabian Peninsula. Our findings show for the first time the detection, identification and molecular characterization of retrovirus infection in dromedary camels in Saudi Arabia. We detected betaretrovirus infections in skin lesions in the head and around the nostrils and eyes of some dromedary camels. Our findings clearly demonstrate the causative agent for these lesions belongs to the betaretrovirus. The reported sequences out of these lesions showed a high degree of similarity to some sheep retroviruses, especially the Jaagsiekte sheep Retrovirus (JSRV). This study suggests that the potential interspecies transmission of retroviruses from sheep to dromedary camels live in close proximity of each other. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Camel milk has both nutritional value and therapeutic effects due to its bioactive components, including proteins and peptides. This study characterize endogenous peptide and potential bioactivity in both Dromedary and Bactrian camel by peptidomics techniques. In total, 622 parent protein from 8393 peptides were identified from camel milk, of which 208 proteins from Dromedary and 464 proteins from Bactrian. After filtration, 4464 endogenous peptides were quantified with 459 peptides were common in two breeds. Finally, 170 peptides were significantly different between Dromedary and Bactrian camel milk, which derived from 27 proteins, including osteopontin, lactoperoxidase up-regulated in Dromedary camel milk and butyophilin subfamily member A1, perilicin, fatty acids synthase up-regulated in Bactrian camel milk. Peptide ranker showed that 14.6% and 15.7% quantified peptides from Dromedary and Bactrian has bioactivity, which were dominated by dipeptidyl peptidase IV inhibitor (39.93%), followed by ACE inhibitor (34.85%) and anti-oxidative activity (8.69%). In sum, although Dromedary and Bactrian camel milk had significantly differences in qualitative and quantitative level of endogenous peptides, they had similarity in bioactivity including anti-diabetic, anti-hypertensive, and anti-oxidative function. The result of this study suggest that endogenous peptides may also contribute to the therapeutic benefits of camel milk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to use a comprehensive approach for evaluating 12 factors related to embryo quality (shape, size and transparency), donors (age, ET type, number of recovered embryos and day of uterine flushing), recipients (age), males (age and individual variations) and environment (season and year) which could affect the outcome of ET in terms of pregnancy (PR) and pregnancy losses in dromedary camels. During three breeding seasons, 116 donor females were mated repeatedly at 12‐ to 14‐day intervals by fertile male camels (n = 33) without stimulation of the ovaries (WSPO). Superovulation (SPO ET) regimen was applied for each donor female twice or thrice per season. In the occasions of applying superovulation regimen, donor females having an ovulatory follicle were mated instead of GnRH administration and superovulation regimen was applied 4 days post‐mating (MIX ET). The uteri of all donor females were flushed at Day 8 or 9 post‐mating, and a total of 2,095 embryos were recovered and transferred individually to 924 recipient females. Pregnancy diagnoses were conducted at Day 10 after ET (Days 18–19 of gestation) by using progesterone assay and by transrectal ultrasonography (TRU) at Days 30 and 60 of gestation. By using logistic regression analysis, transparency of embryos and age of recipient females had significant effects on PR at Days 18–19 (p <.01), 30 (p <.01) and 60 (p <.01; p <.05, respectively) of gestation. The shape of embryos had significant effects on the PR at Days 30 (p <.05) and 60 (p <.01) of gestation. Type of ET and the breeding season (year) had significant (p <.05) effects on the PR at Day 30, while day of flushing had the same effect on PR at Day 60. Regarding the pregnancy losses, transparency and shape of the embryo, type of ET, breeding season had significant (p <.05) effect on the late embryonic mortalities (LEM) and shape and season of year had significant (p <.01 and p <.05, respectively) effect on LEM/early foetal mortalities (EFM). Regarding male individual factor, there was a tendency for a significant (p =.055) effect of male camels on the PR at Days 18–19 and rate of LEM. In conclusion, transferring a spherical, transparent or a large‐sized embryo (>750 µm) into recipient females ageing between 8 and 11 y could greatly improve the PR from Days 18 to 60 of gestation. Also, embryo recovered from donor females with Mix ET type or embryos sired by certain male camel or at Day 8 post‐mating of the donor could improve the 2‐month PR. In addition, transferring a transparent or spherical‐shaped embryo or embryos recovered from donor females with SPO or Mix ET could reduce the pregnancy losses during the first 2 months of pregnancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The camel is a highly valuable animal which contributes effectively to the welfare of people in difficult environments such as the Algerian Sahara. Reproduction in the camel is not as well understood as in more common species of domestic animals. Reproductive problems in the camel are not researched as, for example, in the bovine and small ruminants. Our study demonstrates a clinical case in the Ghardaïa district: cesarean section in female's camels. The incidence of camel dystocia does not differ from that of bovines. The etiologies of dystocia include uterine torsion, carpal flexion, lateral deviation of the head and hock and hip flexion of the fetus. However, the camel fetus survives dystocia better than the equine fetus, and the camel is a good subject for cesarean section. Cesarean section could be performed on the left flank using xylazine sedation and local regional or infiltration anesthesia. A camel, 17 h in dystocia, delivered a live fetus via cesarean section. The camel placenta is diffuse epitheliochorial type, and placental retention subsequent to parturition is rare. The camel placenta is expelled within 49 min to 6 h of calving. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the effect of advancing the breeding season on the reproductive performance of dromedary camels under an intensive management system. Using a synchronization protocol, timed natural mating in female camels was carried out either in September (2 months ahead of the natural breeding season, n = 182) or December (peak breeding season, n = 115). The ovarian responses (size of the dominant follicle at the time of mating and ovulation), pregnancy rate, and pregnancy losses were evaluated using ultrasonography. Blood samples were collected after mating to assess progesterone concentrations by RIA. The libido of male camels (n = 13) was evaluated objectively. Results showed that the percentage of female camels with an optimal sized follicle (11–17 mm) for breeding at the time of mating was lower in September compared to December (81.9 vs 91.3%, P = 0.03). The libido of male camels was lower in September than in December (P < 0.001). The ovulation rate (86.3 vs 93.9%, P = 0.04), size of the ovulated follicle (12.7 ± 0.1 vs 13.7 ± 0.2 mm, P < 0.001) , pregnancy rates on Day 14 (47.8 vs 72.2%, P < 0.001) and Day 90 (38.5 vs 60.9%, P < 0.001) after mating was lower in September compared to December. However, pregnancy loss was not affected between months (15.7 vs 19.5%, P = 0.3). Among pregnant camels, the progesterone concentrations on Days 6, 8, 10, 12 and 14 after mating were lower in September as compared to December (P < 0.001). In non-pregnant camels, the progesterone concentrations on Days 6, 8 and 10 after mating were also lower in September as compared to December (P < 0.001). In conclusion, advancing the breeding season by two months, significantly affects the reproductive performance of dromedary camels, yet, acceptable pregnancy rates can be achieved. • Camels were bred in September (2 months ahead of season) and December (peak season) months. • Size of ovulated follicle, progesterone levels and pregnancy rate were lower in September. • The libido and fertility rate of male camels was affected in September. • Pregnancy loss was not affected by advancing the breeding season to September. • Camels can be bred in September with acceptable pregnancy rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are controversial reports on the restoration of eroded telomere length in offspring produced by somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) in different animal species. To the best of our knowledge, no earlier studies report the telomere length in naturally produced or cloned animals in any of the camelid species. Therefore, the present study was conducted to estimate the telomere length in dromedary camels produced by SCNT, the donor cells, and their age-matched naturally produced counterparts by Terminal Restriction Fragment (TRF) length analysis and real-time Q PCR T/S ratio methods. Genomic DNA was extracted from venous blood collected from 6 cloned animals and their age-matched counterparts. Using the southern blot technique, digested DNA was blotted onto a positively charged nylon membrane, and its hybridization was carried out using telomere (TTAGGG)n specific, DIG-labeled hybridization probe (Roche Diagnostics, Germany) at 42 °C for 4 h. Stringent washes were carried out at the same temperature, followed by a chemiluminescence reaction. The signals were captured using the Azure Biosystems C600 gel documentation system. A TeloTool program from MATLAB software with a built-in probe intensity correction algorithm was used for TRF analysis. The experiment was replicated three times, and the data, presented as mean ± SEM, were analyzed using a two-sample t -test (MINITAB statistical software, Minitab ltd, CV3 2 TE, UK). No difference was found in the mean telomere length of cloned camels when compared to their naturally produced age-matched counterparts. However, the telomere length was more (P < 0.05) than that of the somatic cells used for producing the SCNT embryos. A moderate positive Pearson correlation coefficient (r = 0.6446) was observed between the telomere lengths estimated by TRF and Q PCR T/S ratio method. In conclusion, this is the first study wherein we are reporting telomere length in naturally produced and cloned dromedary camels produced by somatic cell nuclear transfer. We found that telomere lengths in cloned camels were similar to their age-matched naturally produced counterparts, suggesting that the camel cytoplast reprograms the somatic cell nucleus and restores the telomere length to its totipotency stage. • To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study reporting telomere length in any of the camelid species. • Telomere length in cloned camels were similar to those of their age-matched naturally produced counterparts. • The results suggest that the cytoplast of dromedary camel oocytes reprogram and restore the telomere length in embryos constructed by SCNT and maintain its stability during pre- and postnatal developmental stages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Animal & Poultry Production is the property of Egyptian National Agricultural Library (ENAL) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Dromedary camels are unique in their morphological and physiological characteristics and are capable of providing milk and meat even under extreme environmental conditions. Like other species, the dromedary camel has also benefitted from the development of the molecular genetics to increase the knowledge about different aspect in camel genetics (genetic variation, molecular marker, parentage control, gene of interest, whole genome, dating...etc.). In this paper we review the different molecular genetic technics used in this particular species and future prospects. Dromedary genetic studies started in the end of the 1980s with phenotypic evaluation and the attempts to highlight the protein and biochemical diversity. In the 2000s, with the development of molecular markers such as microsatellites, genetic diversity of different types in several countries were estimated and microsatellites were also used for parentage control. In terms of genetic characterization, microsatellites revealed a defined global structure, differentiating East African and South Arabian dromedaries from North African, North Arabian, and South Asian individuals, respectively. Also, mitochondrialDNA sequence analysis of ancient DNA proved to be crucial in resolving domestication processes in dromedaries. Ancient and modern DNA revealed dynamics of domestication and cross-continental dispersion of the dromedary. Nuclear SNPs, single nucleotide polymorphisms changes that occur approximately each 1000 bps in the mammalian genome were also applied in some studies in dromedary. These markers are a very useful alternative to microsatellites and have been employed in some studies on genetic diversity and relevant phenotypic traits in livestock. Finally, thanks to the use of Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) the whole-genome assemblies of the dromedary (Camelus dromedarius) and a work to establish the organization of the dromedary genome at chromosome level were recently published. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Oocyte cryopreservation has become an important component of assisted reproductive technology with increasing implication in female fertility preservation and animal reproduction. However, the possible adverse effects of oocyte cryopreservation on epigenetic status of the resulting embryos is still an open question. This study evaluated the effects of MII-oocyte vitrification on gene transcripts linked to epigenetic reprogramming in association with the developmental competence and epigenetic status of the resulting embryos at 2-cell and blastocyst stages in dromedary camel. The cleavage rate of vitrified oocytes following intracytoplasmic sperm injection was significantly increased compared with the control (98.2 ± 2 vs. 72.7 ± 4.1%, respectively), possibly due to the higher susceptibility of vitrified oocytes to spontaneous activation. Nonetheless, the competence of cleaved embryos derived from vitrified oocytes for development to the blastocyst and hatched blastocyst was significantly reduced compared with the control (7.7 ± 1.2 and 11.1 ± 11.1 compared with 28.1 ± 2.6 and 52.4 ± 9.9%, respectively). The relative transcript abundances of epigenetic reprogramming genes DNMT1, DNMT3B, HDAC1, and SUV39H1 were all significantly reduced in vitrified oocytes relative to the control. Evaluation of the epigenetic marks showed significant reductions in the levels of DNA methylation (6.1 ± 0.3 vs. 9.9 ± 0.5, respectively) and H3K9 acetylation (7.8 ± 0.2 vs. 10.7 ± 0.3, respectively) in 2-cell embryos in the vitrification group relative to the control. Development to the blastocyst stage partially adjusted the effects that oocyte vitrification had on the epigenetic status of embryos (DNA methylation: 4.9 ± 0.4 vs. 6.2 ± 0.6; H3K9 acetylation: 5.8 ± 0.3 vs. 8 ± 0.9, respectively). To conclude, oocyte vitrification may interfere with the critical stages of epigenetic reprogramming during preimplantation embryo development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we described the incidence of early pregnancy loss (EPL) both after natural mating and embryo transfer, evaluated risk factors, and summarized the outcome of twin pregnancies throughout gestation in dromedaries under reproductive care. Data were collected over seven breeding seasons at the world's largest camel dairy farm (study 1). In addition, we determined the timing of EPL and monitored serum progesterone (P4) concentration between Days 13–70 of gestation during one breeding season (study 2). In the first study, out of 2970 pregnancies, 507 cases (17.1%) of EPL were diagnosed with transrectal ultrasonography. The rate of EPL after natural mating and embryo transfer was 16.1% (n = 422 out of 2616) and 24.0% (n = 85 out of 354), respectively. Twin pregnancies were detected in 215 cases (7.2% of all gestations), and 57 of those (26.5%) underwent complete EPL. Almost half of the early losses (n = 243; 47.9%) occurred before 30 d of gestation. Another 43.2% (n = 219) of EPL was diagnosed during the next month, and 8.9% (n = 45) occurred after 60 d of gestation. Multivariable mixed effects logistic regression models revealed that the breeding season (year) and twin pregnancy were the most important exposure variables affecting the rate of EPL (P < 0.001). The effect of some male camels was also demonstrated while other factors, such as type of breeding, age category, month of mating, breed/ecotype and reproductive history did not prove to have a significant influence. In the second study, the overall rate of EPL was 24.5% (n = 34 of 139). There was no difference in the incidence of EPL between ET recipient (24.2%, n = 23 of 95) and mated (25%, n = 11 of 44) camels. Weekly rate of EPL ranged from 0.9% to 4.8% with a decreasing tendency, and approx. 41% of the animals (n = 14 of 34) had some ultrasonographic signs of impending EPL 1 week before the final diagnosis. Mean serum P4 concentration in camels with subsequent EPL was 5.3 ± 0.1 ng/ml compared to 5.6 ± 0.04 ng/ml in normal pregnant dromedaries. Day of gestation and future EPL influenced serum P4 levels (P < 0.001) with an interaction between the two fixed factors (P < 0.05). At the time of the final diagnosis of EPL, mean serum P4 concentration was 2.8 ± 0.44 ng/ml. Although twinning had an unfavorable prognosis with a total pregnancy loss of 36.7%, it was not entirely detrimental for the final outcome of gestation as two-thirds of twin pregnancies (n = 136 out of 212) resulted in the birth of a live calf. • The study provides new data on early pregnancy loss and twin gestation in dromedaries. • The year, twin pregnancy and the male had major influence on early pregnancy loss. • Embryo transfer, age, month, history and breed were not important risk factors. • Serum progesterone was lower in camels with EPL compared to those with normal gestation. • Two-thirds of twin pregnancies resulted in the birth of a live calf. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aimed to compare the accuracy of seven Machine Learning methods for estimating the weight of dromedary camels, during birth-240 day of age, using the body measurements. With this mind, in overall, 458 records, including body weight and also 12 biometric linear measurements collected from dromedary camels at different stage of life, were used. The seven machine learning methods, including bayesian regularized neural network (BRNN), extreme learning (EL), random forest (RF), support vector machine with linear kernel (LSVM), polynomial kernel (PNLSVM), and radial basis kernel (RNLSVM) and linear regression (LR) were compared to estimate the body weight of camels. The performance of the models was evaluated based on mean absolute error, mean absolute percentage error, R-squared, mean squared error, and root mean squared error. A 10 repeated 10-fold cross-validation was used to check the stability of the models and averaged the results. Except the tail length, abdomen width, and abdomen to hump height, most predictors had good correlation (r>0.7) with body weight. Among predictive variables, the highest correlation was 0.96 between heights at whither and height at hump, as well as abdomen width and abdomen to hump height (P<0.01). The accuracy of seven machine learning methods, including BRNN, EL, RF, LSVM, PNLSVM, RNLSVM and LR were 94.93, 93.22, 94.61, 93.2, 95.43, 94.93 and 93.15, respectively. As final conclusion, the outputs of this report showed that, although all compared models had an acceptable and high performance in predicting the weight based on height of camels, However, the PNLSVM can be suggested candidate model due to expressing the higher accuracy than the others considering all studied criteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gestation length (GL) data of dromedary camels were analysed for the period from 2007 to 2018. The database of the largest dairy camel herds (Dubai, United Arab Emirates) was used in this study. The data of 4,084 camels included in the assessment were classified into six ecotypes (Emirati, Emirati cross, Black, Pakistani, Saudi-Sudanese and Saudi cross). The aim of the study was to describe the heritability of GL of camels and the breeding value (BV) of sires for this trait. The genetic parameters of GL were estimated by the General Linear Model method and two Best Linear Unbiased Prediction (BLUP) animal models as well. The mean (±SE) of GL of camels was 384.3 ± 0.2 days. The direct heritability of GL (0.26 ± 0.06–0.36 ± 0.08) was higher than the maternal heritability (0.00 ± 0.05–0.13 ± 0.06) obtained. The maternal permanent environmental effect (0.15 ± 0.05) was similar to the results estimated previously in dromedary camel, but higher than the data reported by relevant sources in other species. Based on the results of this study it can be concluded that the GL of dromedary camels is a species-specific value similar to that in cattle, which is less affected by the maternal influence. Considerable differences (16 days) exist among male dromedaries in their BV for the GL trait. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Recent studies have reported pathogen-species-specific modulating effects on the innate immune system. Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Streptococcus agalactiae are important pathogenic bacteria responsible for different infectious diseases in several animal species. In the present study, a whole blood culture with S. aureus, E. coli, or S. agalactiae and flow cytometry were used to investigate, whether stimulation with different bacterial species induces different immunomodulation patterns in camel leukocytes. The expression of different cell surface myeloid markers and cell adhesion molecules on monocytes and neutrophils was investigated. In addition, the capacity of monocytes and neutrophils to produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) was analyzed. Results: Stimulation with either of the bacterial species resulted in the expansion of the camel CD14highMHCIIhigh monocyte subset with a reduced fraction of CD14highMHCIIlow monocytes. For the CD14lowMHCIIhigh monocytes, however, only stimulation with S. aureus or S. agalactiae increased their fractions in blood. Although all bacterial species elicited the upregulation of cell surface MHC class II molecules on granulocytes, the increase was, however, highest on cells stimulated with S. aureus. The expression levels of the two adhesion molecules, CD11a and CD18, on neutrophils and monocytes were differently affected by bacterial stimulation. Functionally, E. coli failed to stimulate ROS production in monocytes, while induced a strong ROS production response in granulocytes. S. agalactiae elicited a week ROS production in granulocytes when compared to the other two pathogens. Conclusions: The different responsiveness of monocytes and granulocytes toward different bacterial species indicates different host-pathogen interaction mechanisms for the two cell populations. In addition, the phenotypic and functional differences between cells stimulated with E. coli, S. aureus, or S. agalactiae suggests pathogen-species-specific modulating effects of the bacterial pathogens on the camel innate myeloid cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Anticoagulants with different modes of action are used in the collection of camel blood samples. In the innate immune response, camel neutrophils and monocytes can play several roles during infection and inflammation. For anticoagulants ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) and heparin, research has described their effects on different parameters of the immune system. However, to date, no research has examined the effects of anticoagulants on the functional activity of camel phagocytes. Therefore, this study analyzed the influence of K3EDTA and lithium heparin on the antimicrobial activity of camel neutrophils and monocytes. Materials and Methods: Camel leukocytes were separated from blood collected in EDTA or heparin tubes, and their phagocytosis and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production activity were analyzed by flow cytometry after stimulation with Staphylococcus aureus or Escherichia coli bacteria. Results: In comparison to the cells collected from the EDTA blood, the camel neutrophils and monocytes separated from the heparin blood showed higher phagocytosis activity of S. aureus and E. coli. In addition, the neutrophils and monocytes produced significantly more ROS when the blood was collected in the heparin tubes. Conclusion: The antimicrobial functions of camel neutrophils and monocytes are significantly affected by the type of anticoagulation agent. Therefore, using heparin rather than EDTA as an anticoagulant is recommended when performing the functional analysis of phagocytosis and ROS production of camel phagocytes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Anaplasmosis is caused by an obligate intracellular, gram-negative microorganism, which belongs to the family Anaplasmatacea and can be transmitted by ticks and other arthropods. OBJECTIVES: The present study aimed to investigate the status of Anaplasma spp. infection by microscopy and molecular methods in dromedary camels in Bushehr province, Iran. METHODS: A total of 139 blood samples were collected from dromedary camels in Bushehr province. Giemsa staining and nested-polymerase chain reaction (PCR) were conducted to detect Anaplasma infection in the dromedary camels. RESULTS: We found that 27 (19.4%) out of the total 139 blood samples were suspected for the presence of Anaplasma spp. by morphological study. The PCR and nested-PCR sequencing results showed 111 (80%) and 134 (96%) samples positive for Anaplasma spp. and BLAST search in NCBI GenBank presented 100% identity with Candidatus Anaplasma camelii. CONCLUSIONS: The molecular results presented the high frequency of Candidatus Anaplasma camelii in camels, in Bushehr city. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present morphological study was carried out on the skull of dromedary camel. The skull of the camel was irregularly pentagonal in outline and was divided into four surfaces i.e., frontal, basal, nuchal and lateral. The frontal region of the skull was wide and orbits were present laterally. The occipital bone formed the entire nuchal surface of the skull. A rough transverse ridge separated the parietal and nuchal surfaces. The mastoid foramen was very large and situated in a deep fossa in the occipital bone. The cornual processes or horn cores were absent. At the rostro-lateral margin of the orbit, a deep fissure, the supraorbital foramen was observed. The maxillary tuberosity and facial crest were absent. The infraorbital foramen was present in the maxilla bone just above the level of a second superior premolar tooth. The premaxilla bone had a narrow, pointed body that was dorso-medially concave. The nasal bones were notched rostromedial. The mandible was long, narrow and dorsomedially concave. The vertical ramus of the mandible was thin and convex caudally with a thick and wide rostral border and less pronounced angles. The coronoid process was almost straight with a slightly pointed end caudally. The condyloid process was large and presented extensive articular surfaces on its lateral surface, which were convex. A shallow mandibular notch was present between the condyloid and coronoid processes. The mandibular foramen was present in the middle of the medial surface of the mandible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Reproduction is a basic prerequisite to efficient livestock production. Reproductive performance depends on the normal structure and function of genital organs. A cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2016 to May 2017 to identify and compare the frequency of reproductive tract pathological lesions and to isolate bacteria associated to uterine lesions in female dromedary camels and cows slaughtered at Akaki camel slaughterhouse and Addis Ababa and Adama municipal abattoirs. Purposive sampling technique was employed to include and examine the reproductive tracts of all slaughtered animals (280; 140 cows and 140 camels) during the study period. Result: The study examined a total of 280 (140 cows and 140 camels) reproductive tracts. Various pathological lesions with different degrees of severity were observed in 48 (34.2%) and 51 (36.4%) of dromedary camels and cows, respectively. In dromedary camels, the most prevalent lesion was uterine lesions (21.4%) followed by ovarian lesions (7.14%); while in cows, ovarian lesions were the most prevalent (16.4%) followed by uterine lesions (14.2%). In general, 56 bacteria were isolated from cows' uterine lesion, the Staphylococcus species (28.5%), Streptococci species (19.6%), Coynebacterium species (8.9%), Escherichia coli (26.78%), Salmonella species (10.7%) and Klebsiella species (5.35%) being the most representative isolates. In camels, however, 45 bacteria were isolated from uterine lesions with higher prevalence of Escherichia coli (35.5%), Staphylococcus species (26.6%), Streptococcus species (13.3%), Pseudomonas species (6.6%), Proteus species (4.4%), Salmonella species (8.8%) and Klebsiella species (4.4%). Bacteriological data showed that the major isolates were similar, although slightly more frequent in occurrence in cows. Microscopically, uterine inflammatory lesions evidenced endometrial glands degeneration, epithelium sloughing, peri-glandular cuffing, and inflammatory cells infiltration. Conclusions: In female dromedary camels and cows, pathological lesions of the reproductive tract showed great prevalence, with similarity in bacterial isolates in both species. The role of each reproductive lesion and bacterial isolates as causal agents of reproductive failures in these livestock species, however, needs further investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Milk commodity is a widely consumed in Algeria, but local dairy production does not meet its demand (3.8 billion liters per year, 143L/hab/year in 2012). Camel milk is known for its very high nutritional quality; However the quantitative and qualitative performances of dairy camels are strongly influenced by the breeding systems and the procedures for its production and processing. In Algeria, camels are managed in a controlled breeding system accompanied by a shepherd or free breeding system "Hemila". It was presented in this paper as a case study a model of semi-intensive camel herd belonging to the "TEDJANE" dairy plant in south-eastern Algeria. It offers pasteurized and fermented camel milk for human consumption. We focused on the production potential of the dairy plant, the technical management, milking and milk collection, milk quality assessment, processing and conditioning, and finally the main constraints of the dairy plant and its perspectives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Infertility caused by reproductive pathologies plays a significant role in animal breeding and could result in massive economic losses to livestock owners. Hence, this study was designed to allocate various pathological lesions in the female reproductive tract of she-camels (Camelus dromedarius) slaughtered in Egypt and isolate the causative agents associated with those pathologies. Materials and Methods: A total of 500 genitalia of adult nonpregnant she-camels aged between 6 and 15 years old were collected from three slaughterhouses at the Giza Governorate, Egypt, from August 2017 to August 2019. The uterus, cervix, and vagina were examined pathologically and microbiologically. Results: The uteri of 152 cases (30.4%), cervices of 24 cases (4.8%), and vaginae of 20 cases (4.2%) showed pathological abnormalities. The uterine inflammatory lesions were detected in 119 cases (23.8%), and the non-inflammatory lesions were detected in 58 cases (11.6%). Pathological changes of the cervix comprised 4.8%, whereas vaginal abnormalities represented 4%. The total microbial recovery rate was 28.4%, and the isolated organisms included Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, Escherichia coli, Enterobacter cloacae, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, in addition to Candida albicans. Trials to isolate Brucella and Salmonella species were negative; however, virological examination revealed the isolation of bovine herpesvirus type-1 in two cases. Conclusion: Inflammatory lesions were the most prevailing pathological lesions observed along the genital tract of she-camels, and E. coli was the most prevalent isolate. The microbiological burden from the genital discharge could be of zoonotic importance to the examiner and could be a contaminant to the environment and, consequently, human. In addition, attention should be paid toward the possibility of infected she-camels to transmit such infections to farm animals in contact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study sought to determine the characteristics of dromedary camel sperm following 24 h chilling and cryopreservation, testing two different buffers and cryoprotectants and the presence of catalase (500 IU/mL). Ejaculates were liquefied in Tris-Citric acid-Fructose buffer, and centrifuged through a colloid. For Experiment 1 (n = 5) sperm were cooled 24 h in Green Buffer or INRA-96® containing 0 or 3% glycerol or ethylene glycol. Experiment 2 (n = 5) used the same six treatments to evaluate sperm cryopreserved after 24 h cooling. A test of fertility was run (n = 12 recipients) with split ejaculates of fresh semen cooled 24 h in Green Buffer with and without glycerol. Experiment 3 (n = 7) cryopreserved sperm cooled 2 and 24 h in Green Buffer without cryoprotectant and with and without catalase. Sperm parameters measured before and after treatments included motility, viability and acrosome integrity. Experiment 1 showed no reduction in all sperm parameters after 24 h and no differences between buffers or presence or not of either cryoprotectant. Experiment 2 showed Green Buffer to be better than INRA for supporting sperm frozen after 24 h cooling while, for both buffers, there were few differences in sperm parameters if cryoprotectant was present or absent. Pregnancies were confirmed in 4/6 animals (67%) while no recipients receiving sperm chilled with glycerol were pregnant. In Experiment 3, catalase-supplemented sperm had maintained better motility 2 h post thaw; there were no differences between 2 or 24 h cooled sperm parameters for presence or absence of catalase. There was neither advantage nor disadvantage to coooling sperm 24 h prior to cryopreservation. We concluded that dromedary sperm can be chilled (24 h) and then either inseminated or cryopreserved. While glycerol presence in Green Buffer during chilling did not interfere with cryosurvival it may be toxic to the fertility of fresh chilled sperm. Catalase supplementation during cooling helps maintain sperm motility post thaw. • Dromedary camel sperm can be cooled for 24 h in Green Buffer or INRA, with or without of 3% glycerol or ethylene glycol. • Green Buffer preserves 24 h chilled sperm better than INRA for cryopreservation with no effect of cryoprotectant. • Glycerol presence in Green Buffer during 24 h cooling is not detrimental to sperm cryosurvival but compromises fertility. • Catalase in cooling and freezing buffers supports post thaw motilitiesif either cooled 2 or 24 h prior to cryopreservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]