https://jvlr.semnan.ac.ir/ Journal of Veterinary Laboratory Research en daily 1 Tue, 23 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0330 Tue, 23 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0330 https://jvlr.semnan.ac.ir/article_10303.html The widespread and often indiscriminate use of antibiotics in medicine, veterinary practice, and agriculture has led to the emergence and global spread of diverse forms of antibiotic resistance. The rise of antibiotic resistance has not only increased patient mortality but has also imposed significant economic losses, particularly in developing countries. Among the most pressing concerns is the proliferation of β-lactamase-producing bacteria, which undermine the efficacy of β-lactam antibiotics. Rapid and accurate identification of resistant bacteria is critical for controlling infectious diseases, ensuring timely treatment, and preventing further transmission. A variety of diagnostic methods are currently employed to identify resistance mechanisms, including culture-based assays (e.g., disk diffusion, broth/agar dilution, E-test), molecular techniques, and emerging technologies. However, no single method offers complete sensitivity and specificity while meeting all the criteria for an ideal diagnostic tool. This review critically examines current methodologies for detecting antibiotic resistance, with a particular focus on β-lactamase-mediated resistance. The strengths and limitations of each approach are discussed, alongside current challenges in antimicrobial susceptibility testing and future directions for advancing diagnostic accuracy and efficiency.   https://jvlr.semnan.ac.ir/article_10306.html Glaucoma is one of the most common degenerative eye diseases, characterized by elevated intraocular pressure (IOP), and if left untreated, can lead to permanent blindness. This case report presents a 9-year-old female Domestic Shorthair (DSH) cat with a longstanding history of bilateral glaucoma that had gone undiagnosed and untreated since early in life, eventually progressing to an advanced stage. Clinical signs included marked buphthalmos in both eyes, bilateral corneal opacity and fibrosis, mydriasis with absent pupillary light reflexes, a negative menace response, superficial corneal ulcers, pronounced suprascleral vasodilation, and recent onset of ocular discomfort and pruritus—without accompanying blepharospasm. Given the severity of the clinical signs, the owner's inability to pursue medical management, and the risk of further deterioration, bilateral ocular evisceration was elected. Uniquely, despite the pronounced ocular changes, the cat maintained normal appetite and behavior over the years, with no evidence of advanced glaucomatous complications, underscoring the chronic, insidious nature of the disease in this case. https://jvlr.semnan.ac.ir/article_10308.html Tetracyclines are a widely used, broad-spectrum class of antibiotics prescribed to manage mastitis and various diseases in dairy herds.  The improper and excessive use of antibiotics, along with failure to observe withdrawal periods, has led to the presence of drug residues in food products of animal origin. The present study aimed to determine the level of oxytetracycline in raw milk consumed in the city of Semnan. This cross-sectional study was conducted during the autumn. Thirty-six samples were collected from a milk platform in the city of Semnan. The samples were then analyzed for oxytetracycline residues using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). The concentration of oxytetracycline isolated in all samples was less than the Maximum Residue Limit (MRL) of 0.1 µg/mL, with the exception of one sample that was above the limit. Given the presence of drug residues in milk found in this study and others, further investigations into the health of products from treated animals for human consumption should be a priority. The prudent use of antimicrobial drugs and adherence to their withdrawal periods can prevent the adverse effects and harm associated with them. https://jvlr.semnan.ac.ir/article_10299.html The Luristan newt (Neurergus kaiseri) inhabits restricted mountainous habitats in Lorestan Province and northern Khuzestan Province. Specimens were collected from the Korki habitat in Lorestan Province in coordination with the relevant authorities and transferred under appropriate conditions to the Imaging Center of the Social Security Hospital in Khorramabad for radiographic examination. Images were acquired using a digital mammography device in the dorsoventral view, after which morphological and morphometric analyses were performed using Radiant DICOM Viewer software. The vertebral column of the Luristan newt (Neurergus kaiseri) is composed of multiple discrete bony units (vertebrae). The species possesses one cervical vertebra (atlas), 12 trunk vertebrae, one sacral vertebra, 2–3 caudosacral vertebrae, and 28–31 caudal vertebrae. Vertebral counts were consistent between males and females in all regions except the caudal vertebrae. Mean skull length, trunk length, tail length, and total body length were lower in males than in females. Overall, female specimens exhibited larger body sizes compared to males. No specimens were sacrificed in this study, and all individuals were returned alive and in good health to the Department of Environmental Protection of Lorestan Province following the experiments.   Keywords:  https://jvlr.semnan.ac.ir/article_10274.html The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of using Lilaki plant along with polyethylene glycol in the diet of fattening male lambs on performance, blood parameters and some safety parameters. For this purpose, an experiment was conducted with 30 Moghani male lambs in a completely randomized design using 5 experimental treatments. According to the results, there was no difference between the experimental treatments in terms of the effect on weight gain, feed consumption and feed conversion ratio. This was while feed consumption was significantly lower in the first period of rearing (p<0.05). Also, according to the results, the highest amount of protein and albumin was observed in the treatment containing 10% Lilaki. The effect of the treatments on the percentage of weight of the calf, right foreleg, neck, thigh and groin was significant (p<0.05). Regarding the physical growth traits of Moghani lambs, the height of the withers and the two front thighs were significantly affected by the experimental treatments (p<0.05). In addition, the results of this study showed that the consumption of Lilaki had a significant effect on the digestibility of protein and NDF of the diet (p<0.05). In general, the use of Lilaki up to 10% of the diet without negative effects on the growth and health indicators of lambs, led to the improvement of some experimental parameters.     https://jvlr.semnan.ac.ir/article_10537.html The thyroid gland, a critical endocrine organ, regulates physiological functions throughout the body via the secretion of the hormones triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). Deviations in thyroid hormone levels can impact multiple organ systems and lead to diverse clinical manifestations. This study aimed to measure serum concentrations of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), T3, and T4 in three equine breeds: Darehshori, Iranian Purebred Arab, and Foreign Blood Arab horses. A total of 120 blood samples (40 per breed) were collected from horse farms in Yazd, Iran. Following centrifugation, serum was separated and stored in freezer until analysis. Hormone concentrations were determined using commercial kits for T3 (Pishtaz Teb), T4 (monobound kit, USA), and TSH (ELISA, Saman Tajghiz Noor) according to manufacturers' protocols. The results demonstrated significant differences in TSH, T3, and T4 levels between Iranian Purebred Arab and Foreign Blood Arab horses. https://jvlr.semnan.ac.ir/article_10462.html Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) contains high concentrations of platelets and growth factors that promote tissue repair by stimulating angiogenesis, recruiting stem cells, and modulating cellular activity. Both autologous PRP (derived from the patient) and heterologous PRP (donor-derived from the same species) have been effective in treating corneal injuries such as keratitis and corneal erosions. Heterologous PRP, particularly when obtained from blood banks, provides an accessible alternative, and studies have confirmed its safety. This case series evaluated the use of canine-derived heterologous PRP in treating corneal ulcers in three FHV-1-infected kittens. Due to the unavailability of autologous PRP, dog-sourced PRP was used as adjunctive therapy alongside standard treatments (antibiotics, antivirals, and artificial tears). Clinical signs included symblepharon and corneal sequestra, with ultrasound confirming corneal edema and secondary uveitis. Significant improvement in ulcer healing suggested the potential efficacy of interspecies PRP. Unvaccinated kittens exhibited more severe disease, and in one case, conjunctival flap surgery was required due to owner non-compliance. The findings indicate that heterologous PRP, including interspecies preparations, may be a promising alternative when autologous PRP is unavailable. However, further research is needed to validate its safety and efficacy. Strict adherence to veterinary protocols remains essential to prevent complications and ensure optimal outcomes.   https://jvlr.semnan.ac.ir/article_10459.html With the expanding applications of nanoparticles, assessing their biocompatibility, particularly in vital tissues, has become increasingly important. This study aimed to investigate the histopathological effects of chronic administration of caffeine nanoemulsion at different doses on the liver, kidney, heart, brain, and testicular tissues of male Wistar rats. In this experimental study, 40 adult male rats were randomly assigned to four groups: one control group and three experimental groups receiving caffeine nanoemulsion orally at doses of 5, 15, and 30 mg/kg body weight per day for two months. At the end of the treatment period, animals were anesthetized using a combination of ketamine and xylazine, with tramadol administered for analgesia. Tissue samples were collected for histopathological examination, and blood samples were obtained to evaluate serum biochemical parameters. Histopathological analysis revealed mild vascular changes, including congestion, only in the kidney tissue of the group receiving the highest dose (30 mg/kg), with no evidence of necrosis or inflammation. All other examined tissues—liver, heart, brain, and testes—preserved their normal histological architecture, and no pathological alterations were observed. These findings suggest that caffeine nanoemulsion is relatively safe for the studied tissues at low to moderate doses. However, the observed vascular changes in the kidneys at the high dose highlight the need for further investigations, particularly regarding the long-term safety of high-dose applications.   https://jvlr.semnan.ac.ir/article_10426.html Macrorhabdus ornithogaster is a yeast found in many bird species worldwide. It usually grows between the proventriculus and the gizzard and may have no clinical symptoms, but some birds die in a short period of time due to malabsorption and emaciation, while they have a good appetite. Rapid diagnosis is required to achieve the best treatment results with antifungal drugs. The study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of Macrorhabdus ornithogaster in budgerigars and lovebirds in Yazd city. 140 apparently healthy birds were studied and 5 stool samples were collected from each bird. A total of 700 stool samples were evaluated by fecal wet-mount and gram staining methods. Also, histopathological examination was done on 3 dead birds which had signs including anorexia and weight loss. Macrorhabdus ornithogaster was not found in wet smear and histopathological samples, which shows a very low prevalence of this organism in budgerigars and lovebirds in Yazd city. https://jvlr.semnan.ac.ir/article_10479.html This research was conducted with the aim of investigating the prevalence of liver parasite infections and assessing the resulting economic losses in slaughtered livestock in Bukan County. In this study, the carcasses of 800 small ruminants and 700 cattle were inspected during the winter and spring seasons to determine liver parasite contamination. The collected data were ultimately analyzed using SPSS Statistics 27.0.1 software and the Chi-Square test. The results showed that among a total of 800 small ruminants, 2.37% were infected with Dicrocoelium, 6.37% with hydatid cyst, and 0.5% with Fasciola. Additionally, the examination of cattle livers from 700 slaughtered animals revealed that 0.14% were infected with Dicrocoelium, 4% with hydatid cyst, and 1.28% with Fasciola. This study indicated that the estimated economic losses could be mitigated by proper antiparasitic treatment, which would cost only 3.75% of the liver sales revenue, thereby preserving liver health and preventing the wastage of 96.25% of financial resources. https://jvlr.semnan.ac.ir/article_10425.html Infectious Bovine Rhinotracheitis (IBR), caused by Bovine Herpesvirus Type 1 (BHV-1), is a highly contagious disease affecting cattle worldwide, with significant economic implications due to reduced productivity and trade limitations. Despite its impact, no prior seroepidemiological investigation has been conducted in Khorramabad, Iran. This study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of BHV-1 and assess potential risk factors associated with IBR infection in dairy cattle in Khorramabad. A descriptive-analytical study was carried out between December 2023 and March 2024, involving 100 non-vaccinated dairy cows aged 3 to 5 years from eight farms in north and south Khorramabad. Blood samples were analyzed using an indirect ELISA kit to detect anti-BHV-1 antibodies. Statistical analysis was performed using Chi-square tests and logistic regression. The overall seroprevalence of IBR was 59%. A significantly higher prevalence was observed in the southern region (88%) compared to the north (30%) (P<0.05). Seropositivity increased with age, with cows aged 4 and 5 years showing significantly higher infection rates (76.5% and 75%, respectively) compared to 3-year-olds (26.5%) (P<0.05). The high seroprevalence of BHV-1 in Khorramabad highlights the urgent need for preventive measures, particularly vaccination and improved herd management. Regional differences in prevalence and the strong association with age underscore the importance of targeted control strategies. This study provides foundational data for designing effective IBR surveillance and control programs in Khorramabad and similar regions.   Keywords: https://jvlr.semnan.ac.ir/article_10440.html Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has emerged as a promising adjunct in musculoskeletal regenerative therapies. The FHO limits the bony contact between the femoral head and the acetabulum and allows the formation of a fibrous pseudoarthrosis. This study aimed to evaluate the radiographic effects of PRP on bone repair following femoral head osteotomy in rabbits. Eighteen adult male New Zealand White rabbits were randomly divided into two equal groups: a treatment group and a control group. Blood was collected from the hearts of the treatment group in a tube containing anticoagulant in an amount of 6 cc, and after two centrifugation steps with CaCl2, the autologous PRP was activated. For each rabbit in the treatment group, 1.5 ml of PRP was prepared and added at the surgical site. Standardized radiographic assessments were performed at 2, and 3 weeks postoperatively to evaluate callus formation, area of periosteal reaction, and degree of changes in the acetabulum. The PRP-treated group demonstrated significantly enhanced radiographic signs of bone regeneration, including earlier onset of callus formation and improved periosteal reaction, and the degree of changes in the acetabulum compared to controls. These findings suggest that PRP accelerates early bone healing and improves structural integrity post-FHO, potentially supporting its use in orthopedic surgical practice. The presence of high concentrations of growth factors in platelet-rich plasma to accelerate bone repair and pseudo-joint formation by reducing joint inflammation can be effective in faster weight gain in cases requiring hip arthroplasty. More histological studies are recommended to confirm these results https://jvlr.semnan.ac.ir/article_10442.html The aim of this study was to evaluate the ultrasonographic characteristics of the corpora nigra in the eyes of Turkmen horses, including echogenicity, dimensions, and volume. In this study, 30 healthy Turkmen horses (19 mares and 11 stallions) were categorized based on age and sex into four groups: immature stallions, mature stallions, immature mares, and mature mares. A transpalpebral technique was used for the ultrasonographic evaluation of the eye, and the length, volume, and area of the corpora nigra were measured. Ultrasonographic examination of the corpora nigra in Turkmen horses revealed that, in terms of echogenicity, all observed structures exhibited a hyperechoic appearance and generally appeared as round or oval bodies with defined borders and margins, located adjacent to each other. The results of the analyses showed that the mean length and area of the corpora nigra were smaller in younger males compared to females, while in older males, these values were equal to those in females. The statistical test indicated significant differences in the length and area of the corpora nigra based on age, but no significant differences were observed between the two sexes overall. The volume of the corpora nigra was the same in all groups, regardless of age or sex. This study aims to establish reference values and improve the understanding of these structures for clinical evaluations and management of ocular diseases in this breed. https://jvlr.semnan.ac.ir/article_10450.html Hard ticks are obligate and blood-sucking ectoparasites of terrestrial vertebrates that transmit some bacteria (such as Rickettsia , Borrelia, Ehrlichia, Bartonella , Francisella, and Coxiella) . The present study was conducted to identify and molecularly distinguish the genus Rickettsia from hard ticks isolated from samples of goat in Lorestan province . In this study, a total of 262 hard ticks were classified and identified based on diagnostic keys . Then, primers for the (gltA) genes were used to detect Rickettsia by Nested-PCR method. Mega 11 software with 1000 iterations was used for phylogenetic analysis. The results showed that 2 pool samples (9.18%) (CI: 4.9%-16.54%) of the tick samples from Lorestan province were infected with Rickettsia. The 2 positive pool samples were related to Haemaphysalis sulcata ticks from Aligudarz and Selseh (20%) (CI : -5.67%-50.98%). Blast sequencing of the positive samples in NCBI showed that the strains isolated in Lorestan province belong to the Rickettsia hoogstraalii species and are 99-100% similar to other strains registered in NCBI . The findings indicate that Haemaphysalis sulcata ticks may play an important role in the transmission of Rickettsia in the mentioned areas, so this issue could be a major public health concern worldwide . https://jvlr.semnan.ac.ir/article_10501.html Myiasis is a parasitic disease caused by the invasion of fly larvae into the living tissues of animals. Although this condition is more commonly observed in soft tissues and open wounds, involvement of the oral cavity is exceedingly rare due to the region's defense mechanisms, including the presence of saliva, a relatively constant pH range of approximately 7.5, high vascularity, and the continuous movements of the tongue.This study reports the case of a 5-year-old male Boxer dog exhibiting severe clinical manifestations in the oral cavity, including deep ulcers, ptyalism, hematemesis, and anorexia. Clinical examination revealed extensive infestation of the anterior regions of both the maxilla and mandible with fly larvae. Parasitological and morphometric examinations of the larvae confirmed that the specimens belonged to the family Calliphoridae.In this case report, feeding on food waste contaminated with fly eggs or larvae, along with the pre-existing presence, existence, of periodontal diseases which create favorable, suitable, conditions for the establishment and growth of larvae, were identified as predisposing factors. This report emphasizes the necessity for thorough oral examinations in dogs with poor oral hygieneThough rare, oral myiasis must be considered in differential diagnoses for extensive necrotic lesions to prevent major tissue destruction.