Objective: Efficacy of AV/CSP/29 premix (Ca, P supplement with Vit. A and D3 along with synergistic herbs) (M/S Ayurvet Ltd.) was evaluated in commercial broiler chicks. Materials and methods: A total of 144 day-old chicks were randomly divided into three groups. Group T0 (n=48) control group, supplemented with basal diet without any additional source of calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (P). Group T1 (n=48) was administered with AV/CSP/29 premix at 500 gm/ton of feed and Group T2 birds (n=48) were supplemented with Brand A at 500 gm/ton of feed for 0 to 42 days. Parameters viz., growth, performance, serum biochemical and carcass quality traits were evaluated. Results: More gain in body weight was observed in the AV/CSP/29 premix supplemented group (T1) birds as compared to other groups. Similarly, FCR was improved in the AV/CSP/29 premix supplemented group (T1) birds. Blood Ca and P concentrations were comparatively improved in AV/CSP/29 premix supplemented birds. Parameters viz., carcass yield, dressing percentage, tibial mineralization, water holding capacity and extract release volume were also found to be better in AV/CSP/29 premix supplemented group (T1) birds. Conclusion: The results from the current study suggest that feeding of AV/CSP/29 premix to broiler chickens may have a beneficial effect on bone quality and in improving overall performance. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2016; 3(3.000): 268-273]

Objective: Swine production is one of the most popular and promising livestock production industries in many parts of Nigeria. It prides itself in contributing to the supplementation of the overall national protein intake, gainfully engaging the citizenry in the industry and generating foreign exchange to the nation through export of produce and products. However, the swine production industry in Nigeria faced with religious and cultural constraints as well as several infectious diseases. The objective of this study was to investigate the prevalence of intestinal parasites in swine in the North Central State of Nigeria. Materials and methods: A total of 920 pigs comprising of 874 (95%) and 46 (5%) foreign and indigenous breed of pigs respectively were investigated in this study. Quantitative Mcmaster egg-counting technique was used for counting eggs of parasites. Semi-structured questionnaires was used to generate demographic data during October 2014 to March 2015. Results: Fifty five percent pigs were found to be positive for Hyostrogylus rubidus, while Ascaris suum, Trichuris suis and other unidentified eggs were present in 23, 17 and 5% pigs, respectively. and lsquo;Red Stomach Worm' infection in swine was the highest parasitic burden observed as compared to other parasites. Spreading of infection within sexes had a P value of >0.5. Conclusion: The prevalence of parasites in pigs obtained in this work is a consequence of improper husbandry measures and irregular veterinary medical intervention. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2016; 3(3.000): 278-281]

Tick-borne diseases (TBDs) or otherwise called equine piroplasmosis (EP) are the foremost economic limitations to equids production. Thus, reducing the breeding capability and athletic performance of equids globally. Identification of these haemoparasites is crucial in understanding their distribution in the population and it is imperative to discern between species and subspecies that are responsible for the occurrence of the disease conditions. Conventional procedures such as microscopic and serological evaluations do not usually meet these prerequisites. Diagnostic contrivances, such as the complement fixation test (CFT), the indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT) and the enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) have been efficaciously used for many years. Furthermore, DNA-based investigations for identification, differentiation and classification of different haemoparasites have also been established. Molecular diagnostic procedures, such as DNA hybridization, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), transcriptomics, proteomics, metagenomics and metabolomics, permit the uncovering of parasites in blood, tissues or ticks with optimal sensitivity, specificity and consistency. In addition, these procedures can be exploited to detect definite species and subspecies. The prerequisite of these investigations must include proper premeditation and validation, these investigations provide an effective device for molecular studies, with greater benefits of flexibility to standardization. The application of these procedures for studying TBDs or EP globally will be irreplaceable for a long period from now. Therefore, the aim of this review is to draw up the specifics of the procedures in more convenient form for practitioners and researchers. KEY WORDS: Diagnosis, equids, molecular, transcriptomics, proteomics, metagenomics, metabolomics, haemoparasites, tick-borne diseases [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2016; 3(2.000): 84-91]

Objectives: This study was designed to reveal out the present transportation scenario of Black Bengal goats to and from some selected markets in Bangladesh. Materials and methods: A questionnaire survey to know the behavioral parameters and management provisions provided by the farmers was designed to collect necessary information from Sirajganj and Gabtoli markets. The survey was conducted by direct interview with the stakeholders who were directly involved with the transportation of Black Bengal goats from Sirajganj to Dhaka city. Results: The present study showed that 58% adult respondents were involved in goat transportation program, among them 95% were male. Most of the farmers in the markets lacked institutional education (24%) or just completed primary education (41%). Only 27% of the respondents had earlier experience in transporting animals. Transport durations were <6 h (51%), 6 h (39%), and >6 h (10%). The goats were usually transported on foot or by using vehicles. All the respondents were known about planning of animal transportation. About 2, 5, 7 and 5% of animals were suffering from head swinging, stretching, stamping of feet and paralyzed condition during transportation, respectively. During transportation, the animals exhibited idleness (25%), panting (17%), foaming (14%), vocalization (13%) and moving forward (12%). Most of the farmers provided feed (41%), rest (33%) and shelter (24%) during the transportation of the goats. Only 5% farmers hired trained drivers for transportation purpose. About 27% animals were untied and 7% animals ramped during transportation. Besides, there were high percentage of pressure to animals (23%), hitting or kicking animals (19%) and abuse to animals (15%) during transportation. Conclusion: From this study it is concluded that Black Bengal goats became physically unfit during long time transportation although majority of the farmers took proper management practices. Therefore, changes in behavioral responses might be alleviated through creating awareness to animal raiser as well transporter. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2016; 3(1.000): 38-44]

Objective: This study was designed to assess the prevalence and the associated risk factors (e.g., sex, age, breed, management system and climate) of Dirofilaria immitis in dogs in Makurdi metropolis in Nigeria. Materials and methods: Prevalence study of canine heartworm disease in dogs was conducted over a period of six months covering five localities of Makurdi metropolis in Benue State, Nigeria. A total of 186 blood samples were collected from apparently healthy and sick dogs, and the samples were examined for the presence of microfilaria between September 2015 and February 2016. Three methods (wet mount, Buffy coat and modified Knott's techniques) were used for the examination of the samples. The Packed Cell Volume (PCV) and complete blood count for each sample were also determined. Results: Out of the 186 dogs, 4 (2.15%) were found to be positive for the presence of microfilaria. Out of the 4 positive cases, 3 (1.61%) were microfilaria and 1 (0.54%) was unidentified motile parasite. A total of 104 females were examined and only 1 (0.96%) was positive, while 3 (3.66%) males out of 82 examined were positive. Out of 141 older dogs examined, 4 (2.84%) were positive. Hematology of the positive dogs revealed mild anemia and moderate thrombocytopenia with Mean+/-SD of 34.8+/-15.30% and 108+/-60.81x109/L, respectively. Conclusion: The study confirms Knott's technique to be the most sensitive in the diagnosis of dirofilariasis in dogs using parasitological techniques. The findings confirm the occurrence of D. immitis in dogs in Makurdi with low prevalence and that the general public are at high risk of spreading infection from the dogs. Infection is more in male and adult dogs. This work can assist in planning appropriate strategies for controlling and prevention of D. immitis infection in Nigeria. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2016; 3(4.000): 338-344]

Hookworm infection, a global problem of human, is caused by both Ancylostoma duodenale and Necator americanus. These parasites are considered as important blood feeding nematodes. Hookworm is usually prevalent among the people who live with low socio-economic status. However, this tropical disease is neglected in most cases. This review was aimed at investigating the insights of hookworm infection of human considering its epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical manifestation, diagnosis, treatment, immune mechanism, prevention, and control. This study showed how hookworm infection poses a global burden and infects 438.9 million people around the word annualy, and causes significant morbidity among the children and adult in endemic countries. Also, this review discussed how hookworm infection threatens the mankind causing serious health hazards. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2016; 3(4.000): 297-320]

Objective: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of age, sex, location and management on cattle mortality rate in Rajshahi division of Bangladesh. Materials and methods: The study was conducted in 8 districts of Rajshahi division during July 2011 to June 2012. A total of 17,982 cattle heads were investigated based on age, sex, area. Data were collected from the cattle owners using a closed structured questionnaire. Tentative cause of cattle mortality was identified based on clinical signs, laboratory tests, history, ante-mortem and postmortem reports. Management practices of the cattle were also investigated. Results: Out of 17,982 cattle heads, 549 were found to be dead by various diseases, and an average mortality rate was 3.05%. Age-wise mortality rate of cattle revealed that the maximum mortality rate was found in the age group of <2 years (3.90%) and minimum was found in age group 2 to <8 years (2.36%). Sex-wise splitting data showed that the higher mortality rate was observed in the female (3.15%) than the male (2.90%). Area-wise cattle mortality rate revealed that Rajshahi (3.29%), Natore (2.84%), Chapai Noawabganj (3.77%), Naogaon (3.48%), Bogra (2.57%), Joypurhat (2.84%), Pabna (1.84%) and Sirajganj (3.06%). The significantly highest (P<0.05) cattle mortality rate was found in Chapai Noawabgonj district (3.77%) and lowest was in Pabna district (1.84%). There is no significant difference (P>0.05) between the cattle mortality rate in Natore district (2.84%) and Joypurhat districts (2.84%). Conclusion: The overall mortality rate of cattle in Rajshahi division was found comparatively low. This might be due to improved management practices, better veterinary services, and awareness among farmers. However, cattle mortality rate in the age group <2-year is alarming due to bad management practices and disease. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2016; 3(1.000): 13-17]

Objective: To determine the prevalence of Schistosoma infection in cattle in Maiduguri Metropolis (MMC) and Jere Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Borno State, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: Blood samples (n=200) were collected from cattle consisting of one hundred (100) each from five (5) ward levels each of MMC and Jere LGAs. DNA samples were extracted from the serum samples, analysed and quantified using a Nano-drop machine. The extracted DNA were subjected to polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Results: The overall prevalence of Schistosoma infection was 2% (n=200). Jere LGA had 3% (n=100) while MMC had 1% (n=100). There was no statistical significant association in prevalence rate in the two LGAs studied (P=0.621) (P>0.05). At the ward levels, Custom Area in Jere LGA had 15%, Jiddari ward in MMC had 5%, and the remaining ward levels had no cases. Of the 103 female and 97 male cattle screened, the prevalence in female was 1(0.97%) and 3(3.09%) in the male. Of the 177 serum samples from above 1year (adult) examined, 4 (2.26%) were positive and none in the young. There was no statistical significant association in prevalence rate among ward levels, sex groups and age groups in the study areas (P=0.621) (P>0.05), (P=0.356) (P>0.05) and (P=1.000) (P>0.05) respectively. Of the eight (8) breeds screened, Kuri had 2.7%, Sokoto Gudali (1.82%), Abore (2%), Red Bororo (2.63%), White Fulani, Porland, Mbala and Wafara recorded no cases. The difference in prevalence rates among the breeds based on the trend of occurrence of Schistosoma infection were not significantly associated statistically (P=1.000) (P>0.05). Conclusion: There is a prevalence of Schistosoma infection in cattle in the two LGAs of Borno state. It is recommended that a system be established to maintain preventive and control programs. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2016; 3(2.000): 92-98]

Objective: This study was conducted to investigate the effects of estradiol benzoate injection to intact and castrated male rabbits on LH, FSH, testosterone and prostate tissue. Materials and methods: A total of 72 mature male rabbits were used in this study. The rabbits were randomly divided into two groups (36 intact and 36 castrated) and each group was further divided into four sub-groups. The rabbits of each subgroup were injected estradiol benzoate dosed at 0, 40, 80 and 120 and micro;gm/rabbit, through intramuscular (IM) route, on each alternative day over a period of 30 days. The levels of LH, FSH, and testosterone were measured in serum samples. Prostate tissue samples were taken from each sub-groups, histological examination was done. Results: The mean serum levels of LH and FSH were not affected by injection of estradiol benzoate in all intact and castrated rabbits sub-groups (P>0.05). However, the results of testosterone levels were showed insignificant increase in all intact and castrated male rabbits sub-groups, except the intact male rabbit sub-group that received estradiol benzoate at 120 and micro;g/rabbit (P<0.05). Furthermore, the effects of estradiol benzoate in prostate tissues were ranged from hyperplasia with dysplasia or dysplasia only in intact male rabbits; hyperplasia was represented by papillary projection in castrated male rabbits. Conclusion: The present study revealed no difference in the serum levels of LH, FSH in intact or castrated male rabbits, however, testosterone hormone did not show any change except in sub-group of intact male rabbits that was injected dosed at 120 and micro;g estradiol benzoate. The effect of estradiol benzoate on prostate tissue was found to be induce hyperplasia in both intact and castrated males rabbits. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2016; 3(4.000): 420-424]