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After the first detection of Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) in camels in Jordan in 2013, we conducted 2 consecutive surveys in 2014–2015 and 2017–2018 investigating risk factors for MERS-CoV infection among camel populations in southern Jordan. Multivariate analysis to control for confounding demonstrated that borrowing of camels, particularly males, for breeding purposes was associated with increased MERS-CoV seroprevalence among receiving herds, suggesting a potential route of viral transmission between herds. Increasing age, herd size, and use of water troughs within herds were also associated with increased seroprevalence. Closed herd management practices were found to be protective. Future vaccination strategies among camel populations in Jordan could potentially prioritize breeding males, which are likely to be shared between herds. In addition, targeted management interventions with the potential to reduce transmission between herds should be considered; voluntary closed herd schemes offer a possible route to achieving disease-free herds.

Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is widely distributed in Sudan where outbreaks occur on an annual basis especially during the winter months (December-February). This study aimed to increase our understanding of the epidemiological patterns of FMD in Sudan and connections to neighbouring countries by characterising the genetic sequences of FMD viruses (FMDV) collected from seven Sudanese states over a 10-year period (between 2009 and 2018). FMDV was detected in 91 of the 265 samples using an antigen-detection ELISA. Three serotypes were detected: O (46.2%), A (34.1%), and SAT 2 (19.8%). Fifty-three of these samples were submitted for sequence analyses, generating sequences that were characterised as belonging to O/EA-3 (n=18), A/AFRICA/G-IV (n=23) and SAT 2/VII/Alx-12 (n=12) viral lineages. Phylogenetic analyses provided evidence that FMDV lineages were maintained within Sudan, and also highlighted epidemiological connections to FMD outbreaks reported in neighbouring countries in East and North Africa (such as Ethiopia and Egypt). This study motivates continued FMD surveillance in Sudan to monitor the circulating viral lineages and broader initiatives to improve our understanding of the epidemiological risks in the region.

Middle East respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus (MERS-CoV) is a persistent zoonotic pathogen with frequent spillover from dromedary camels to humans in the Arabian Peninsula, resulting in limited outbreaks of MERS with a high case-fatality rate. Full genome sequence data from camel-derived MERS-CoV variants show diverse lineages circulating in domestic camels with frequent recombination. More than 90% of the available full MERS-CoV genome sequences derived from camels are from just two countries, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) and United Arab Emirates (UAE). In this study, we employ a novel method to amplify and sequence the partial MERS-CoV genome with high sensitivity from nasal swabs of infected camels. We recovered more than 99% of the MERS-CoV genome from field-collected samples with greater than 500 TCID50 equivalent per nasal swab from camel herds sampled in Jordan in May 2016. Our subsequent analyses of 14 camel-derived MERS-CoV genomes show a striking lack of genetic diversity circulating in Jordan camels relative to MERS-CoV genome sequences derived from large camel markets in KSA and UAE. The low genetic diversity detected in Jordan camels during our study is consistent with a lack of endemic circulation in these camel herds and reflective of data from MERS outbreaks in humans dominated by nosocomial transmission following a single introduction as reported during the 2015 MERS outbreak in South Korea. Our data suggest transmission of MERS-CoV among two camel herds in Jordan in 2016 following a single introduction event.

The aim of this study is to determine if enteric viruses are the cause of diarrhea in broiler flocks in Jordan. Intestinal content samples were collected from 101 broiler flocks from several regions of Jordan to detect the presence of astrovirus, coronavirus, reovirus, and rotavirus, by using reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Forty-six of these flocks were clinically healthy with no enteric disease, and the other 55 flocks were clinically suffering from diarrhea. The samples were collected between 5 and 16 d of age. The results show that 79% of total 101 flocks tested were infected with one or more of the above enteric viruses. Coronavirus was the most common virus, detected in 56.4% of these flocks, with astrovirus in 29.7% of the flocks, and rotavirus (9.9%) and reovirus (5.6%) being the least common. None of these flocks were found to be infected with all four viruses, but one of the flocks was found to be infected with astrovirus, coronavirus, and rotavirus simultaneously. Individual infection was noted with astrovirus, coronavirus and rotavirus but not with reovirus, whereas all flocks infected with reovirus were also infected with coronavirus. There was no statistical evidence to link these viruses as the main cause of diarrhea in the flocks tested. This is the first study in Jordan to detect all of these viruses and to correlate their presence with diarrhea in chicken flocks.

Introduction: This study was carried out to determine the seroprevalence and risk factors associated with Leptospira serovars Pomona and Hardjo infection in dairy cows. Methodology: Seroprevalence was determined using ELISA using 160 healthy and 80 recently aborted cows. Risk factor assessment was carried out using a pre-validated questionnaire. Results: The true farm seroprevalence of Leptospira serovars Pomona and Hardjo was 92.3% (95% CI: 66%-98%). In healthy cows, the true and apparent cow seroprevalence of Leptospira serovars Pomona and Hardjo were 26.9 (95% CI: 20–34%), 26.25% (95% CI: 20–33%) and 28.75% (95% CI: 22–36%) and 27.5% (95% CI: 21–35%), respectively. Semi-intensive management system (OR = 11.43; P < 0.01), surface water as a source of drinking water (OR = 1.21; P < 0.03), lack of special wear for visitors (OR = 1.39; P < 0.05), and previous history of abortion (OR = 1.02; P < 0.05) were associated with high rate of seropositivity against Leptospira serovars Pomona and Hardjo. In recently aborted cows, the true and apparent seroprevalence rates of Leptospira serovars Pomona and Hardjo were 53.25% (95% CI: 47.5–62%), 53.75% (95% CI: 48.5–63.2%) and 56% (95% CI: 49–61%), 56.25% (95% CI: 49.8–61.2%), respectively. Conclusions: Leptospirosis is an endemic disease in Jordan and further studies are required to effectively control the disease in dairy cows.

The objectives of this study are to report clinical WNV infection in horses and to determine the seroprevalence of and risk factors for WNV infection in horses in Jordan. In late summer and early fall of 2012, two mares were presented for evaluation of neurological signs. The first mare had hind-limb ataxia. The second mare was slightly depressed and lethargic. She had ataxia in her four limbs and cranial nerves deficits. Both horses were found positive for WNV IgM antibodies using commercial IgM-capture ELISA test. Both horses were treated symptomatically and recovered uneventfully. The occurrence of clinical cases initiated the need for a seroprevalence and risk factors study. Two hundred and fifty-three normal horses were randomly enrolled in the study. Enrolled horses were grouped into five major regions according to the geographical proximity and climatic similarities. From each region, around 50 horses were sampled. The serum collected from each horse was screened by a competitive ELISA, and those that reacted positive using the previous ELISA test were further tested using commercial IgM-capture ELISA test. Sixty-three horses (24.9%) of the 253 surveyed were seropositive to WNV. Of the 63 horses, none had IgM antibodies for WNV. The region with the highest prevalence was Jordan Valley and Balqa. Horses used for polo (OR = 9.77; 95%CI = 1.32-25.44) and horses located in Jordan Valley and Balqa region (OR = 13.31; 95% CI = 2.33-32.54) were identified as risk factors for seropositivity to WNV in Jordan. These risk factors were attributed to the hot and humid weather, which enhance vector availability. West Nile virus appears to be endemic in Jordan. Future studies are warranted to evaluate the virus situation in the country during the next few years in an attempt to control it.

This is a report of the complete genome sequence of the goatpox virus strain Gorgan, which was obtained directly from a commercial live attenuated vaccine (Caprivac, Jordan Bio-Industries Centre).

The aim of this study was to estimate geographical distribution of Culicoides species and Culicoides imicola in northern governorates of Jordan. The study was conducted by placing light traps in four climatically different geographical locations during 2011. Suitability maps were created by layering and compiling climatic parameters into the GIS data to highlight locations and time suitable for growth of C. imicola. Collected insect samples were assorted by morphology to identify Culicoides species. Molecular analysis was used to identify Culicoides spp. and C. imicola. In total, 25,196 insects were trapped of which 3491 (12.7%) were morphologically identified as Culicoides spp. The highest counts Culicoides spp. were recorded in Deir Alla (47%), Banikenaneh (31%) and Al-Shouneh (21%) respectively. The peak activity was recorded during August through October. Morphological identification failed to identify Culicoides species in 4 locations while polymerase chain reaction analysis identified Culicoides spp. in all locations except Al-mafraq. C. imicola could only be identified in Deir Alla, Bani-kenaneh and Al-Shouneh. There was no evidence of viral genome of epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus, blue tongue virus and bovine ephemeral fever virus in the trapped midges.

A cross-sectional study was carried out to determine the seroprevalence and to identify risk factors associated with Neospora caninum infection in 62 dairy herds (n = 671 cows) in Jordan between January and June 2007. Information regarding herd management was recorded through personal interviews with farmers. Antibodies against N. caninum were detected using an indirect ELISA test. Chi-square analysis and multivariable logistic regression model were used to identify risk factors associated with N. caninum seropositivity. The true prevalence of antibodies against N. caninum in individual cows and cattle herds was 35 and 66.5 %, respectively. There was no significant difference in the percentage of seropositive animals between different age groups. Multivariable logistic regression model revealed workers frequently visiting nearby farms as a risk factor for seropositivity to N. caninum, while presence of a calving pen was suggested as a protective factor. Amman, Balqa, and Mafrak governorates had significantly lower seroprevalence to N. caninum compared to other Jordanian governorates. Results of this study indicated that N. caninum infection may be widespread in Jordan.

A cross-sectional study was carried out to determine seroprevalence and to identify risk factors associated with Chlamydophila abortus infection in 62 nonvaccinated dairy herds (671 cows) in Jordan between January and June 2007. Information regarding herd management was recorded through a personal interview with farmers. Antibodies against C. abortus were detected using an ELISA test kit. Chi-square analysis and multivariable logistic regression model were used to identify risk factors associated with C. abortus seropositivity. The true prevalence of antibodies against C. abortus in individual cows and cattle herds were 19.9 % and 66.3 %, respectively. Univariable Chi-square analysis revealed three variables with P ≤ 0.25 that were further offered to multivariable logistic regression analysis. Small-sized herds were identified as a risk factor for seropositivity to C. abortus, while sweeping followed by water hosing and using disinfectants were identified as protective factors. Cows in the age groups of >8 and ≤10 years old and >2 and ≤6 years old had the highest and lowest significant seroprevalence to C. abortus, respectively. Results of this study indicated that C. abortus is highly prevalent in Jordan's dairy herds and Chlamydophila infection could be controlled by applying strict biosecurity measures in the dairy farms.

The purposes of this study were to estimate the seroprevalence and distribution of horse piroplasmosis, to evaluate risk factors associated with the occurrence of the disease and to compare the different diagnostic methods used for this disease. A total of 253 clinically normal horses were sampled, and a collection form was completed for each horse from five of six different climatic zones of Jordan. The sixth zone was not sampled because it did not include horse population. Competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (cELISA) revealed 37 horses (14.6%) positive for Theileria equi, and none of the horses was positive for Babesia caballi. Microscopic examination of thin blood smears and PCR test revealed no positive results for either parasite. Grazing was the only risk factor that was associated with being seropositive to the disease; horses that graze are 11.5 more likely to be seropositive (P

In this study, the pathological lesions and occurrence of subclinical Johne's disease in Awassi sheep is investigated using histopathological (HP) and immunohistochemical (IHC) examinations, Acid Fast Staining (AFS) of tissue sections, direct smears from tissues and culture. Histopathological examination of 202 ilea and the corresponding mesenteric lymph nodes (179) was conducted. In addition, IHC examination, using rabbit poly - clonal antiserum, of 134 ilea and 123 mesenteric lymph nodes was also conducted. The occurrence of the disease was observed in 50% and 93% of the ilea examined using histopathology and IHC techniques, respectively. Fifty nine percent of lymph nodes were positive by IHC. The histopathological lesions were graded from І-IV, I being the least severe, based on the type of cellular infiltrate (lymphocytes, macrophages and epithelioid cells) and the severity of the lesions. Grades III and IV (SP) were considered positive while I and II were considered suspected. Analysis of the results also revealed that the majority of suspected cases (grades I and II) reacted positive with the IHC. Furthermore, the IHC reactions were classified into three categories depending on the number of stained cells and the intensity of the staining (I-mild, II-moderate and III-strong). Direct smears, and tissue sections obtained from the ilea and stained with AFS revealed that out of 202 tissue samples, 53 (26%) and 22 (11%) were positive, respectively. Results of the culture revealed that 22 (11%) out of 202 were positive. These results showed that the occurrence of paratuberculosis (Johne's disease) in Awassi sheep is very high in Jordan and needs further study in order to develop rational methods of control effective for the Jordanian sheep population.

To examine the effects of xylazine, ketamine, diazepam anesthesia on clinical pathology parameters in sheep and goats, seven adult, healthy, non-pregnant Awassi sheep weighing 40–60 kg and seven adult, healthy non-pregnant Damascus breed goats weighing 35 to 55 kg were used. Anesthesia was induced using 0.1 mg/kg xylazine, 5 mg/kg ketamine, and 0.25 mg/kg diazepam as a single intravenous injection. Blood cell counts and plasma biochemical analysis were performed before anesthesia (T0), 2 h after recovery, 24 h after recovery, and 5 days later. Hematological analysis indicated that there was a significant increase in neutrophil percentages (P ≤ 0.05) in sheep and goats at 2 h and 24 h after recovery. There was a mild lymphopenia and a significant leukocytosis at 24 h after recovery in both species. Packed cell volume was significantly increased at 24 h and at 2 h and 24 h after recovery in sheep and goats, respectively, while total red blood cell count was significantly decreased at 24 h after recovery in sheep and goats. There were no significant changes in hemoglobin, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, total protein, and albumin concentrations. Glucose was significantly elevated at 2 h after recovery in goats only. Aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase were not significantly changed at any sampling point. It is therefore concluded that a combination of xylazine, ketamine, and diazepam can be used to induce short term anesthesia in sheep and goats with minimum effects on clinical laboratory parameters.

This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of xylazine–ketamine–diazepam anesthesia on heart rate, respiration rate, rectal temperature, rumen motility, peripheral blood pH, PaO2, and PaCO2 in adult female nonpregnant Awassi sheep and adult female nonpregnant Damascus goats. Anesthesia was induced using 0.1 mg/kg, 5 mg/kg, and 0.25 mg/kg xylazine, ketamine, and diazepam respectively as a single intravenous injection. The heart rate, respiration rate, rectal temperature, rumen motility, peripheral arterial blood pH, PaO2, and PaCO2 were evaluated 15 min before and at 15, 30, and 60 min during anesthesia. In sheep, the heart rate, rumen motility, and PaO2 were decreased significantly (P < 0.05) at 15, 30, and 60 min following anesthesia. The respiration rate and rectal temperature and blood pH were decreased significantly (P < 0.05) at 30 and 60 min. The peripheral PaCO2 was increased significantly (P < 0.05) at 15 and 30 min. In goats, the heart rate and rumen motility were decreased significantly (P < 0.05) at 15, 30, and 60 min while the respiration rate was decreased only significantly (P < 0.05) at 60 min. Rectal temperature was decreased significantly (P < 0.05) at 30 and 60 min. The blood pH was decreased significantly (P < 0.05) at 15 and 30 min. PaO2 was only significantly (P < 0.05) decreased at 15 min while PaCO2 was increased significantly (P < 0.05) at 15 and 30 min.

To determine the clinical pathology parameters in nude rats (Crl:NIH-Fox1RNU) following experimental induction of acute myocardial infarction (AMI), 50 male adult nude rats weighing 250–350 g were used. Complete blood count, total and differential leukocyte counts, plasma total protein, albumin, glucose, urea, creatinine, total bilirubin, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase were determined before (time zero, T0), 1, and 5 days following experimental induction of AMI. Lactate dehydrogenase, creatinine kinase (CK), and creatinine kinase MB fraction (CK-MB) were determined at T0, 6, and 24 h following AMI. There were no significant changes in the hematological parameters at any sampling point. Among all plasma biochemical parameters studied, only CK and CK-MB were significantly elevated 6 h following induction of AMI. These data will aid scientists and researchers in the interpretation and better application of their results when using nude rats for AMI studies.

We investigated the seroprevalence and risk factors for Brucella seropositivity in cattle in Jordan. The sera from 671 cows were randomly collected from 62 herds. The antibodies against Brucella were detected using a Rose Bengal plate test and indirect ELISA. A structured questionnaire was used to collect information on the cattle herds' health and management. A multiple logistic regression model was constructed to identify the risk factors for Brucella seropositivity. The true prevalence of antibodies against Brucella in individual cows and cattle herds was 6.5% and 23%, respectively. The seroprevalence of brucellosis in cows older than 4 years of age was significantly higher than that in the younger cows. The seroprevalence of brucellosis in cows located in the Mafraq, Zarqa and Ma'an governorates was significantly higher than that of the other studied governorates. The multiple logistic regression model revealed that a larger herd size (odd ratio = 1.3; 95% CI: 1.1, 2.6) and mixed farming (OR = 2.0; 95% CI: 1.7, 3.7) were risk factors for cattle seropositivity to Brucella antigens. On the other hand, the use of disinfectants (OR = 1.9; 95% CI: 1.1, 2.1) and the presence of adequate veterinary services (OR = 1.6; 95% CI: 1.2, 3.2) were identified as protective factors.

Summary Objectives To investigate the seroprevalence of childhood brucellosis in Jordan and to elucidate risk factors associated with seropositivity to Brucella . Methods Between January 2001 and October 2006, a cross-sectional study of children aged ≤15 years was conducted; a total of 1282 serum samples were collected. Serum samples were analyzed for the presence of antibodies to Brucella antigens using the Rose Bengal plate test (RBPT) and a direct enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Risk factors associated with seropositivity to Brucella antigens were identified by constructing a multivariate logistic regression model. Results Of the 1282 serum samples tested, 119 (9.3%) were positive by both RBPT and ELISA tests. When adjusted for the sensitivities and specificities of the two tests, the true seroprevalence was 11.6%. The seroprevalence of Brucella antibodies in Ma'an and Mafraq governorates was significantly higher than in the other governorates. The logistic regression model identified male gender (OR 2.5, 95% CI 1.4, 4.1), age older than 10 years (OR 1.8, 95% CI 1.1, 3.9), living in a village (OR 2.0, 95% CI 1.3, 2.9), and assisting in raising small ruminants (OR 1.6, 95% CI 1.1, 2.6) as risk factors for childhood Brucella seropositivity in Jordan. Conclusion This study documents the importance of brucellosis in children and further emphasizes the role of small ruminants as an important source for human infection.

Eighteen racing horses from a total of 85 horses that participated in a long-distance (120-km) race were used for this study. The 18 horses that were used comprised nine horses that were eliminated from the race at the 90-km checkpoint because of synchronous diaphragmatic flutter (SDF). Another nine horses that passed the 90-km checkpoint were randomly selected and served as a control group (CT). Horses were sampled at three different times (t 0 , t end , t 2weeks ). Plasma sodium (Na + ), potassium (K + ), and chloride (Cl − ) concentrations were decreased at the end of the race to insignificant levels. A significant reduction ( P ≤ .05) was observed in the ionized calcium (Ca ++ ). Lipid peroxide (LPO) and malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations in plasma were higher compared with values obtained before the start of the race. In SDF-eliminated horses, these parameters were higher than in the control horses. Glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity was significantly lower at the end of the race, whereas creatine phosphokinase (CPK) was similarly increased fourfold in both groups. A significant increase in lactate concentration was seen in both groups; however, this parameter was significantly higher in the SDF-eliminated horses than in the control group. Statistical significance ( P ++ concentration in the SDF group at the three sampling points. This study established elevated lipid peroxidation product level as one component of the biochemical characteristics of SDF. The low level of Ca ++ in plasma of horses was associated with high levels of lipid peroxidation indexes.

A cross-sectional study was performed to investigate some epidemiological aspects of foot and mouth disease (FMD) and paratuberculosis in small ruminant flocks located in two governorates in Southern Jordan. A total of 320 sheep and 300 goats from 38 and 24, sheep and goat flocks, respectively, were randomly sampled and assayed for presence of antibodies against FMD virus and Mycobacterium paratuberculosis using commercially available kits. A structured pre-tested questionnaire was administered to collect information on flocks’ health and management. A multivariable logistic regression model was constructed to investigate risk factors associated with seropositivity to the two studied diseases. The individual prevalence of FMD and paratuberculosis in sheep was 10.4 and 22.1%, respectively. The sheep flock level seroprevalence for FMD and paratuberculosis was 44.7 and 50%, respectively. In goats, the individual prevalence of FMD and paratuberculosis was 6.3 and 18.1%, respectively. The goat flock level seroprevalence for FMD and paratuberculosis was 33.3 and 45.8%, respectively. The logistic regression model revealed mixed farming as a common risk factor for both FMD and paratuberculosis. Grazing in communal areas and addition of new animals were identified as risk factors for paratuberculosis.

Peste des petits ruminants (PPR) is an economically important disease that affect sheep and goat industry in Asia and Africa. In this study, we investigated the seroprevalence, and risk factors, of PPR in sheep and goat flocks from five different governorates (Irbid, Jarash, Ajloun, Mafraq and Zarka) located in Northern Jordan. Serum samples from 929 and 400 sheep and goats, respectively, corresponding to 122 sheep flock and 60 goats flock were collected. Seroprevalence was determined using PPR competitive ELISA. Health status and management information were collected using a semi-structured pre-tested questionnaire. The individual true prevalence of PPR in sheep and goats was 29 and 49%, respectively. The flock level true prevalence of PPR was 60 and 74% in sheep and goats, respectively. In both sheep and goat flocks, large flock size, visiting live animals market and inadequate veterinary services were identified as risk factors for PPR seropositivity. Mixed (sheep and goats) raising was identified as a risk factor for PPR seropositivity in sheep flocks only.

A pharmacokinetic and bioequivalence evaluation of two norfloxacin oral solutions was carried out in healthy broiler chickens after oral administration according to a single dose, randomized, parallel- experimental design. The two formulations were: Vapcotril-10% (Vapco, Jordan) as a test product and ® 3 were given a single intravenous dose of norfloxacin to calculate the systemic bioavailability. Serial blood samples were collected from the left brachial or cutaneous ulnar veins at different time points post drug administration. Norfloxacin concentrations in chicken plasma were determined using a microbiologica l assay and Klebsiella pneumoniae ATCC 10031 as a test organism. The pharmacokinetics analysis of the data was performed using non-compartmental analysis based on statistical moment theory (SMT) with the help of computerized WinNonlin program (Version 5.2, Pharsight, CA, USA). The maximum plasma concentration (C ), time to reach peak concentration (t ), area under plasma concentration-time curve max max (AUC and AUC ), elimination half-life (t ) and systemic bioavailability (F) were. 4.94 ± 0.06 and 3.88 0-12h 0-inf 1/2β ± 0.07 µg/ml, 1.0 and 2.0 h, 21.60 ± 0.54 and 20.51 ± 0.39 µg.h/ml, 25.40 ± 0.76 and 23.40 ± 0.69 µg.h/ml, 4.49±0.13 and 3.87±0.21h, 50 and 47.5% for Vapcotril-10% and Mycomas 10% , respectively. The 90% ® ®

A cross-sectional study was carried out during the period between July 2003 and June 2005 to investigate the epidemiology of ovine brucellosis in Southern Jordan. Serum samples from 1380 sheep corresponding to 66 flocks were collected and analyzed using rose bengal plate test and complement fixation test. A structured questionnaire was used to collect information on sheep health and management. Risk factors for Brucella seropositivity were investigated using a multivariable logistic regression model. In addition, the incidence of Brucella-specific abortion was investigated in 12 sheep flocks located in Karak (a governorate in the southern part of Jordan). The true prevalence of Brucella-seropositive sheep was 37.6%. Out of the 66 investigated sheep flocks, 31 (47%) had at least one positive animal. The prevalence of brucellosis in sheep was significantly higher (P

Besnoitia besnoiti is an apicomplexan parasite and the causative agent of bovine besnoitiosis which is considered as a re-emergent disease in Europe. A cross-sectional serological study was conducted to determine the seroprevalence and to identify risk factors associated with B. besnoiti infection in 68 dairy herds (n = 806 cows) in Jordan during the period from January to June 2007 and the spring of 2014. Data regarding herd’s management was obtained by filling questionnaires through personal interviews with farmers. An indirect ELISA test was used to detect antibodies against B. besnoiti. Chi-square analysis and multivariable logistic regression model were used to identify risk factors associated with seropositivity to B. besnoiti. At the individual cow and herd level, the true prevalence of seropositive animals was 6 and 28.7 %, respectively. Cows between 2 and 6 years of age had significantly higher seroprevalence of B. besnoiti than other age groups. The highest seroprevalence of B. besnoiti was found in Zarqa and Irbid governorates. Multivariable logistic regression model identified that exchanging visits by farm workers to neighboring farms as a risk factor for seropositivity to B. besnoiti, while smaller herd size and twice a day farm cleaning using sweeping and water hosing were identified as protective factors. This is the first study that investigated the seroprevalence of B. besnoiti infection in dairy herds in Jordan. Further studies are warranted to explore the clinical manifestation of B. besnoiti infection as well as to identify the possible presence of other Besnoitia species and definitive hosts for the parasite.

To investigate the seroprevalence of, and risk factors for, caprine arthritis-encephalitis virus (CAEV) infection in different breeds of goats in Jordan, sera from 1100 goats from three different geographical regions in Jordan were analyzed. Prevalence of antibodies to CAEV was determined using a competitive ELISA test. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect information on herd health and management. Questionnaire data were tested in a multivariable logistic regression model to elucidate risk factors associated with CAEV seropositivity. In addition, the incidence of CAEV antibodies was investigated in six goat herds located in the northern part of Jordan. Out of the 69 goat herds investigated, 16 (23.2%) had antibodies against CAEV. Individual goat true seroprevalence to CAEV was 8.9%. The highest CAEV seroprevalence was observed in goats older than 3-years and younger than 6-years of age. The seroprevalence of CAEV in goats was significantly higher ( P

The seroprevalence and risk factors for Brucella seropositivity in goats in Jordan were investigated. Serum samples were collected from 1100 goats randomly from 69 herds. The rose bengal plate test and the complement fixation test were used to detect antibodies against Brucella. A structured questionnaire was used to collect information on goat health and management. Questionnaire information was tested in a multivariable logistic regression model to identify risk factors for Brucella seropositivity. In addition, the incidence of Brucella-specific abortion was investigated in goat herds located in the northern part of Jordan. Of the 1100 goats sampled, 305 (27.7%) had antibodies against Brucella. Thirty-seven herds (53.6%) had at least one Brucella seropositive goat. The prevalence of brucellosis in goats was significantly higher (P

To determine the seroprevalences of Bartonella henselae and Bartonella quintana antibodies in Jordanian pet cats, serum samples from 153 cats from three geographical regions were analyzed. Seroprevalences were determined by indirect immunofluorescence. The true seroprevalences to B. henselae and B. quintana were 32 and 1.5%, respectively. The seroprevalence of B. henselae-specific antibodies in cats from northern Jordan was significantly higher than in cats from the central or southern parts of Jordan. The seroprevalence to B. henselae increased to age 2 years. Odds of seropositivity were higher in cats living outdoors, showing hunting behavior, having a flea infestation and of a mixed breed. No association was detected with sex.

A total of 337 liver abscesses of Awassi sheep that were found in different slaughterhouses in Jordan were examined for their causal agents. Fifteen different bacterial species were isolated from 297 liver abscesses. No bacteria were isolated from the remaining 40 liver abscesses. Fusobacterium necrophorum biovar B were isolated from 195 (58%) abscesses. Arcanobacterium pyogenes , F. necrophorum biovar A, Escherichia coli and Clostridium perfringens were isolated from 41 (12%), 34 (10%), 30 (9%) and 17 (5%), respectively, liver abscesses. Our study suggested that F. necrophorum biovar B is the most prevalent bacterium incriminated for liver abscesses in Awassi sheep.

To investigate the period prevalence, etiology and some epidemiological features of subclinical mastitis in Awassi ewes from the southern part of Jordan, milk samples from 318 lactating ewes were aseptically collected for bacterial and somatic cell counts (SCC) tests. Milk samples were collected at monthly intervals. The period prevalence of subclinical mastitis was 18.3% and the prevalence within each flock remained relatively constant throughout the study period. A significant association (P

Ahmad M. Al-Majali, Seroepidemiology of caprine Brucellosis in Jordan, Small Ruminant Research 58 (2005) 13–18 (AlMajali, 2005). . Ahmad M. Al-Majali, Aggrey A. Majokb, Nadim M. Amarin, Odeh F. Al-Rawashdeh, Prevalence of, and risk factors for, brucellosis in Awassi sheep in Southern Jordan, Small Ruminant Research 73 (2007) 300–303 (Al-Majali et al., 2007). . Ahmad M. Al-Majali, Khaleel Jawasreh, Amer Al Nsour, Epidemiological studies on foot and mouth disease and paratuberculosis in small ruminants in Tafelah and Ma’an, Jordan, Small Ruminant Research 78 (2008) 197–201 (Al-Majali et al., 2008).

The effect of intravaginal fluorogestone acetate (FGA) sponges on prolactin levels (PRL) and correlations between PRL and milk somatic cell count (SCC) and steroid hormones levels of Damascus-local cross goats during transitional period to anestrous were investigated in this study. Fifty-six goats were assigned to three groups. Group 1 (FGA, n = 19) was treated with 40 mg FGA and equine chorionic gonadotropin (600 IU, i.m.) at time of sponge withdrawal (day 0). Group 2 (FGA-PGF; n = 19) was treated similar to group 1 but was also injected with dinoprost tromethamine (naturally occurring PGF2α) (10 mg, i.m.) on day 0. Control goats (n = 18) were left untreated. On day 0, five fertile bucks were turned in with all goats. Milk and blood samples were collected on days −13 (day of sponge insertion), −6, 0, 1, 2, 7, 13, and 20. Prolactin levels were at lowest values on day −13 of the study and increased (p < 0.05) from day −6 to day 20 in all groups. A significant positive correlation (p < 0.05) between PRL and progesterone and between PRL and estradiol levels was found in this study. No significant correlation was found between PRL and SCC of all groups during the study except on days 2 and 20 where PRL levels were correlated (p < 0.05) with SCC of left udder halves of FGA group. In conclusion, estrus induction with FGA resulted in significant increase in PRL. A positive correlation was found between PRL and steroid hormones, but there was no correlation between PRL and goat milk SCC.

Forty-six Awassi sheep flocks selected by stratified random sampling were subjected to a cross-sectional study to determine the prevalence of intramammary infections, to assess the influence of flock size and parity on the prevalence of somatic cell count (SCC) and to identify major udder pathogens. Of the 3472 udder halves examined, 29.8% had over 106 SCC/ml and 0.03% had dry teats due to chronic mastitis. Flocks with 30–49 milking ewes (small flock size) were much younger (P < 0.001) than flocks with 50–99 ewes (medium) and flocks with ≥ 100 ewes (large). Pairwise analysis of the InSCC of both halves of the udders revealed significant mean differences for small and large flock size (P < 0.05), and for medium and large flock size (P < 0.001). Mean InSCC was lower (P < 0.05) in samples obtained from the left half compared with samples of the right half of the udder. Multiparous ewes had higher (P < 0.001) mean InSCC than primiparous ewes. Also, ewes with twin lambs had higher (P < 0.001) mean InSCC in the right half of the udder compared with single-lamb ewes. Samples collected in January (winter) had lower (P < 0.05) mean InSCC compared with samples collected in June. The most common organisms isolated from subclinical mastitis cases were coagulase-negative Staphylococci (17.8%), E. coli (13.6%), Streptococcus agalactiae (6.8%) and Staphylococcus aureus (6.8%). Of the 46 flocks, 20 were monitored monthly for 9 consecutive months to determine the incidence of clinical mastitis diagnosed by shepherds or/and sheep farmers with major pathogens. The incidence of clinical mastitis (expressed as the number of clinical cases per 100 ewe-months) were 2.1 ± 1.9 (SD), 1.9 ± 1.1, and 1.2 + 2.1 for small, medium and large flocks size strata, respectively. The overall population estimate was 1.7 ± 0.02 cases per 100 ewe-months. The most-common clinical isolates were S. aureus (22% of all clinical isolates) and E. coli (14.2%).

The prevalence and associated pathology of foreign bodies in 1453 sheep presented to the Veterinary Clinic during a 27 month period and in the rumen and reticulum from 300 sheep from Amman and Irbid slaughterhouses were studied in Jordan. Of the 1453 sheep, 130 had rumen impaction by plastic and were treated by rumenotomy. The type and location of foreign bodies were examined in 54 out of the 130 sheep. Plastics were the most common (74%), rope and leather were the least common (7%), and all were found in the rumen. Pins and nails were encountered (18.5%) in both rumen and reticulum. Plastic bags were also the most common (78%) foreign bodies found in the rumen of sheep examined in Amman and Irbid from slaughterhouses. In 20 sheep (6.6%), metal masses were found in the rumen. Only in 3 sheep (1%) were pins and nails present in the reticulum. Gross examination of the rumens with plastic revealed areas of sloughing, hemorrhages, congestion and stunting of the papillae. Histopathological examinations revealed areas of coagulative necrosis, hyperemia, inflammatory processes and focal hyperplasia. Several mitotic figures and cells with more than one nucleolus were also present. The results suggest that the plastics in the rumen may play an important role in the pathogenesis of rumenitis. The results, also, suggest that the most common types of foreign bodies in Jordan are plastics and a clean up of the environment would substantially reduce the prevalence of foreign body-pica syndrome in sheep.

Objective—To evaluate the ability of atropine sulfate, butylscopolammonium bromide combined with metamizole sodium, and flunixin meglumine to ameliorate the clinical adverse effects of imidocarb dipropionate in horses. Animals—28 horses with piroplasmosis. Procedures—28 horses were randomly assigned to 4 equal groups according to the pretreatment administered. Fifteen minutes before administration of 2.4 mg of imidocarb dipropionate/kg IM, horses in the first group were pretreated with 0.02 mg of atropine sulfate/kg IV, the second group with a combination of 0.2 mg of butylscopolammonium bromide/kg IV and 25 mg of metamizole sodium/kg IV, the third group with 1.1 mg of flunixin meglumine/kg IV, and the fourth (control) group with 1 mL of saline (0.9% NaCl) solution/50 kg IV. Physical examination, including evaluation of rectal temperature, heart and respiratory rates, capillary refill time, mucous membrane color, hydration status, abdominal sounds, signs of abdominal pain, salivation, diarrhea, and number of defecations, was performed. Results—Imidocarb dipropionate use in the control group was associated with serious adverse effects including signs of abdominal pain (4/7 horses) and diarrhea (2/7). Horses pretreated with atropine had no diarrhea, but 6 had signs of abdominal pain. Only 1 horse that received butylscopolammonium-metamizole pretreatment had signs of abdominal pain and 3 had diarrhea, which was numerically but not significantly different than the control group. Of horses pretreated with flunixin, 3 had signs of abdominal pain and 3 had diarrhea. Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—A combination of butylscopolammonium bromide and metamizole sodium may be useful to ameliorate the adverse effects of imidocarb dipropionate in horses, although group size was small and significant differences from the control group were not found.

Clostridium perfringens (Cp) causes necrotic enteritis disease in commercial poultry. Antimicrobials are used to control and treat this disease and sometimes clinical outbreaks do not respond well to certain treatments. This study was designed to isolate Cp from clinical cases, type these isolates by multiplex PCR, and determine their antimicrobial susceptibility by micro-dilution method. A total of 67 Cp isolates were obtained from 155 broiler chicken flocks. All isolates were classified as type A and non-enterotoxin producers. Lincomycin, erythromycins, and tilmicosin showed very high minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) 50 of ≥256 μg/ml. However, tylosin, amoxicillin, ampicillin, penicillin, florfenicol, danofloxacin, enrofloxacin, chlortetracycline, doxycycline, and oxytetracycline had variable MIC₅₀ of 64, 0.5, 1, 1, 8, 4, 8, 4, 8, 0.5 μg/ml, respectively. It is recommended that Cp infections in Jordan be treated with either penicillins or tetracyclines especially amoxicillin and oxytetracycline.

Heat-stable enterotoxin (STa) secretion from Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) is crucial for the pathogenesis of diarrhea in both animal and human. The goal of this study was to investigate the distribution of the STa-specific receptors in the newborn camel’s enterocytes and brush border membrane vesicles (BBMVs). Flow cytometric analysis was used to investigate the density of STa-receptors on enterocytes and BBMVs prepared from anterior jejunum, posterior jejunum, ileum, and colon. Strong density and affinity of STa-receptors was present on enterocytes and BBMVs of the ileum compared to that in the other intestinal segments. It was concluded that the ileum is the major target for STa action in newborn camels.

Nitric oxide (NO) is a crucial mediator in host defense and is one of the major killing mechanisms within macrophages. Its induction is highly affected by the types of cytokines and the infectious agents present. In the current study, NO production was evaluated after in vitro infection of unfractionated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) with Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP) after 8h, 3 and 6 days of culture for cows in different stages of disease. In addition, the effects of in vitro exposure to inhibitory cytokines such as interleukin-10 (IL-10) and transforming growth factor beta (TGF-beta) as well as the pro-inflammatory cytokine IFN-gamma were correlated with the level of NO production. Nitric oxide production was consistently higher in cell cultures from subclinically infected animals at all time points. An upregulation of NO production was demonstrated in unfractionated cell cultures from healthy control cows after exposure to MAP infection as compared to noninfected cell cultures. A similar increase in NO due to the addition of MAP to cell cultures was also noted for clinically infected cows. NO level among subclinically infected cattle was greater at all time points tested and was further boosted with the combination of both in vitro MAP infection and IFN-gamma stimulation. Alternatively, nonspecific stimulation with LPS from Escherichia coli O111:B4-W resulted in an upregulation of NO production in all infected groups at 3 and 6 days after in vitro infection. Finally, the in vitro exposure to inhibitory cytokines such as IL-10 and TGF-beta prior to MAP infection or LPS stimulation resulted in the downregulation of this inflammatory mediator (NO) in all experimental groups at all time points. In summary, a higher level of NO production was associated with cows in the subclinical stage of MAP infection. As well, the results demonstrated an increase in NO production upon infection with MAP and in the presence of exogenous IFN-gamma. Finally, the results suggest an important role of IL-10 and TGF-beta on the profile of NO production which may explain the low NO production in MAP clinically infected cows.

Pregnant goat does can develop various metabolic diseases during late pregnancy that may have profound effects on their health and productivity, including subclinical pregnancy toxemia.This study was performed to evaluate serum biochemical findings in goats in late pregnancy with and without subclinical pregnancy toxemia.Serum samples were obtained from 153 clinically healthy goats in the last trimester of pregnancy from 14 herds in central and northern Jordan. Serum was analyzed for the following constituents: 3-hydroxybutyrate (3-HB), glucose, total protein, albumin, urea, creatinine, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, cholesterol, triglycerides, cortisol, T3, T4, total calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus, using commercially available kits. Goats were classified as having subclinical pregnancy toxemia or as controls on the basis of 3-HB results. Biochemical results were compared between the 2 groups using nonparametric statistical tests.Fifty-three does had subclinical pregnancy toxemia (3-HB0.86 mmol/L) and 100 were pregnant control does (3-HBor =0.86 mmol/L). Does with subclinical pregnancy toxemia had significantly lower glucose concentrations (P.001) and significantly higher urea (P=.042) and total protein (P=.048) concentrations compared with pregnant control does. 3-HB concentration was significantly correlated with glucose (r=0.290, P=.035), phosphorus (r=0.351, P=.01), and cortisol (r=0.394, P=.004) concentrations in goats with subclinical toxemia.Results of this study indicate that the biochemical profile of does with subclinical pregnancy toxemia had significantly lower glucose (P.001) and total protein (P = .048)concentrations, whereas urea concentrations were significantly higher (P = .042) compared with pregnant control does [corrected].

During the period between February, 2004 and December, 2006, a cross-sectional study was performed to investigate some epidemiological aspects related to camel brucellosis in Jordan. Four hundred twelve camel sera from 37 herds were randomly collected and analyzed using Rose Bengal plate test and complement fixation test. A structured pre-tested questionnaire was administered to collect information on camel herd health and management. A multivariable logistic regression model was constructed to investigate risk factors associated with seropositivity to Brucella antigens. Moreover, the incidence of Brucella-specific abortion was investigated in 7 camel herds located in different locations in Southern Jordan. The true prevalence of Brucella-seropositive in camels was 12.1%. Thirteen (35.1%) herds had at least one positive camel. The seroprevalence of brucellosis in camels was significantly higher in the southern part of Jordan than that in central or northern Jordan. The multivariable logistic regression model on both individual and herd levels revealed large herds and contact with small ruminants as risk factors for Brucella seropositivity. On the other hand, using disinfectants was identified as a protective factor (OR = 0.8; 95% CI: 0.1, 0.9) only on the camel herd level. The incidence of Brucella-caused abortion was 1.9%. Brucella melitensis biotype 3 was isolated from 4 aborted camel fetuses.

The elaboration of heat stable enterotoxin (STa) is an important step in the pathogenesis of enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC), which causes severe diarrhea in newborn animals. In this study, the distribution of the STa-specific receptors on enterocytes and brush border membrane vesicles (BBMVs) prepared from the anterior jejunum, posterior jejunum, ileum and colon of newborn kids was investigated. The density of STa-receptors on enterocytes and BBMVs was higher in the posterior jejunum than that in other segments of the kids' intestines. Additionally, the affinity of the posterior jejunum STa-receptors was higher than the affinity of receptors present on the epithelium of other intestinal segments. Our findings suggest that the posterior jejunum is a major target for STa within the intestinal tract of newborn kids.

To investigate the prevalence of antibodies to Bartonella henselae (B.henselae) and Bartonella quintana (B.quintana) among children from central and northern Jordan.Sera from 482 children were randomly collected from referenced governmental hospitals in the central and northern parts of Jordan during the period between January 2001 to March 2003. An indirect immunofluorescent assay was used to determine serum antibody titers to B.henselae and B.quintana. Sera that were reactive at a dilution/-1:64 were considered positive. In addition, blood from 20 cats belonged to children with high B.henselae titers were tested using polymerase chain reaction.Out of the 482 serum samples examined, 53 (11%) and 20 (4.1%) had positive antibody titers for B. henselae and B.quintana. Bartonella henselae was isolated from 4 cats that belonged to 3 children with high antibody titers to B.henselae-IgG. The seroprevalence of IgG antibodies to B.henselae was significantly higher (P0.05) in children aged 7-10-years than in younger or older ones. Having a cat in the household and having a history of cat scratches or bites were strongly associated (P0.01) with seropositivity to B.henselae-specific IgG. Cats ownership and history of cat scratches or bites had no impact on the prevalence of B.quintana. Seropositivity to B.henselae-specific IgG was significantly higher (P0.01) in children from northern Jordan than in children from central Jordan.This study substantiates the presence of B.henselae in Jordan, documents the seroreactivity to 2 Bartonella antigens, and suggests that cat ownership and history of cat scratches or bites are important epidemiological risk factors for B.henselae infection in Jordan.

Medical records of 31 adult dairy cows suffering from recurrent rumen tympany for at least 1 month duration that underwent exploratory laparotomy and rumenotomy were reviewed and information was obtained on signalment, history, physical examination findings, laboratory findings and surgical findings. Cases were categorized according to surgical findings into 3 groups. Group 1 (n = 10) included cattle with reticuloruminal, metallic foreign bodies and perireticular adhesions/inflammation, group 2 (n = 14) included cattle with reticuloruminal, non-metallic foreign bodies and no perireticular adhesions/inflammation and group 3 (n = 7) included cattle with no reticuloruminal foreign bodies and no perireticular adhesions/inflammation. Anorexia and decreased milk production were the most common clinical signs in all groups. Reluctant to move and arched back were prominent in group 1. In 45% of cases, frothy bloat was associated with the presence of large amounts of reticuloruminal, non-metallic foreign bodies. Collectively, factors that significantly had negative impact on outcome were: presence of perireticular adhesions, feeding finely-ground grain and plasma fibrinogen levels above 600mg dL -1 . However, the amount of grain fed per day and type of bloat (free-gas or frothy gas) had no significant effect on the outcome. Results of this study suggest that similar to metallic foreign bodies, non-metallic foreign bodies in the reticulorumen of adult dairy cattle are equally important in causing recurrent rumen tympany.