Tuesday 31 March 2020

Addition of binahong (Anredera cordifolia) leaf powder to diets to produce eggs with low cholesterol

Research (Published online: 31-03-2020)
31. Addition of binahong (Anredera cordifolia) leaf powder to diets to produce eggs with low cholesterol
Sri Kismiati, Hanny Indrat Wahyuni, Rina Muryani, Dwi Sunarti and Sri Sumarsih
Veterinary World, 13(3): 604-608
ABSTRACT
Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the addition of binahong leaf powder to quail rations on the production and quality of eggs.
Materials and Methods: The study involved the use of two hundred 7-week-old quails housed evenly in 20 wire cages with a body weight of 123.77±0.72 g. The quails were treated as follows: Ration without binahong leaf powder (T0), addition 2% of binahong leaf powder (T1), addition 4% of binahong leaf powder (T2), and addition 6% of binahong leaf powder (T3). The study used a completely randomized design. The parameters measured were the production, weight, and characteristics of the eggs, as well as the cholesterol, triglyceride, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and egg protein content in the yolk.
Results: The addition of 2-6% binahong powder did not significantly affect egg production, egg characteristics, or egg protein content, but significantly (p<0.05) affected the cholesterol, triglyceride, HDL, and LDL contents in yolk. The cholesterol, triglyceride, and LDL contents decreased significantly in T1, whereas HDL increased significantly in T2 and T3.
Conclusion: The addition of 2% binahong was enough to obtain healthy quail eggs with low levels of cholesterol, triglyceride, and LDL.
Keywords: binahong, cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein, low-density lipoprotein, triglyceride.

Monday 30 March 2020

Molecular and histopathological identification of ovine neosporosis (Neospora caninum) in aborted ewes in Iraq

Research (Published online: 30-03-2020)
30. Molecular and histopathological identification of ovine neosporosis (Neospora caninum) in aborted ewes in Iraq
Sattar J. J. Al-Shaeli, Ali M. Ethaeb and Hasanain A. J. Gharban
Veterinary World, 13(3): 597-603
ABSTRACT
Aim: The objective of the present study was to detect Neospora caninum DNA in the placenta of sheep and evaluate the association of risk factors to polymerase chain reaction (PCR) positive and histopathological analysis of the placenta and fetal tissue samples of aborted fetuses.
Materials and Methods: Fresh placenta from 51 aborted ewes was collected for PCR assay. Placental and fetal tissues of aborted fetuses, including brain, heart, liver, lung, and thymus, were collected for histopathological analysis, besides the risk factor data were obtained during the time of sampling.
Results: From 51 placentas examined by PCR, 13.73% appeared positive to N. caninum DNA. The relationship between PCR positive and the risk factors revealed a significant difference (p<0.05) in age of the dam, fetal age, feed source, water source, and the presence of other animals at farm, whereas the type of birth, stillbirth, and size of flock showed insignificant difference (p>0.05). Histopathological investigation of placental and fetal tissues of positive samples showed tissue cyst-like structure, necrotic foci, and infiltration of mononuclear cells. Other lesions were thickening in chorionic plate in placenta, severe vacuolization and death of neurons, microgliosis, demyelination, edema, and proliferation of astrocytes in brain. In addition, fibrous and fat deposition with stenosis in the heart, parenchymal necrosis, severe atrophy, vacuolization and hyalinization of hepatocytes, megakaryocyte, portal fibrosis in the liver, and interlobular septal thickening in lung without obvious lesions is seen in the thymus tissue samples.
Conclusion: This is a unique study that confirmed N. caninum DNA in the placenta of aborted ewes in Iraq using PCR assay. Histopathological analysis of some aborted fetuses organs could provide a more confirmatory and reliable data for a significant role of neosporosis in increasing the rate of abortion in sheep, while the clinical data of risk factors could be used to control the transmission of N. caninum infection.
Keywords: histopathology, Iraq, Neospora caninum, polymerase chain reaction, sheep.

Sunday 29 March 2020

Effect of KOROPASS, an extruded jack bean (Canavalia ensiformis)-derived supplement, on productivity and economic performance of beef cattle

Research (Published online: 29-03-2020)
29. Effect of KOROPASS, an extruded jack bean (Canavalia ensiformis)-derived supplement, on productivity and economic performance of beef cattle
Bambang Waluyo Hadi Eko Prasetiyono, Agung Subrata and Widiyanto Widiyanto
Veterinary World, 13(3): 593-596
ABSTRACT
Aim: This study evaluated the effect of feeding a graded amount of extruded jack bean (Canavalia ensiformis) on nutritional status, production performances, and economic performance of beef cattle.
Materials and Methods: The supplement called "KOROPASS" was prepared from the extruded jack bean (according to the extrusion heating process). Sixteen male Friesian-Holstein crossbred cattle were divided into four groups and fed on KOROPASS as per the regimen: R0 (total mixed ration [TMR] without KOROPASS), R1 (TMR supplemented with 3% KOROPASS), R2 (TMR supplemented with 6% KOROPASS), and R3 (TMR supplemented with 9% KOROPASS). The in vivo experiment lasted 44 days. TMR contained 12% crude protein and 60% total digestible nutrient. The consumption and digestibility of dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), and total protein (TP), feed efficiency, average daily gain, and income over feed cost (IOFC) were evaluated.
Results: KOROPASS supplementation significantly increased (p<0.05) beef cattle consumption of DM (from 7.83 [R0] to 8.33 [R1], 8.91 [R2], and 9.69 kg/day [R3]), OM (from 6.72 to 7.17, 7.69, and 8.38 kg/day, respectively), and TP (from 892 to 1020, 1182, and 1406 g/day, respectively). The elevated levels of KOROPASS significantly increased (p<0.05) digestibility in terms of the levels of DM (from 42.9 [R0] to 50.6 [R1], 58.0 [R2], and 63.6% [R3]), OM (from 54.3 to 59.6, 66.3, and 70.6%, respectively), and TP (from 65.0 to 67.1, 75.0, and 80.7%, respectively). Dietary supplementation of KOROPASS significantly increased (p<0.05) metabolizable protein, average daily weight gain, and feed efficiency of beef cattle. Finally, dietary KOROPASS supplementation, especially at 9%, resulted in the highest (p<0.05) IOFC value of beef cattle.
Conclusion: Dietary supplementation of KOROPASS improved feed utility, as reflected by the increase in consumption and digestibility of DM, OM, and TP. Further, KOROPASS supplementation improved feed efficiency, growth, and economic performance of beef cattle. The findings indicate the potential value of KOROPASS as a feed supplement for beef cattle.
Keywords: beef cattle, extruded jack bean, feed utilization, growth.

Saturday 28 March 2020

In vitro evaluation of graded level of Silkworm pupae (Bombyx mori) oil on methane production, fermentation characteristics, and protozoal populations

Research (Published online: 28-03-2020)
28. In vitro evaluation of graded level of Silkworm pupae (Bombyx mori) oil on methane production, fermentation characteristics, and protozoal populations
G. Thirumalaisamy, Pradeep Kumar Malik, Atul P. Kolte and Raghavendra Bhatta
Veterinary World, 13(3): 586-592
Aim: The present study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of variable levels of silkworm pupae oil and roughage: concentrate ratio on in vitro methane production, fermentation characteristics, and rumen protozoa population.
Materials and Methods: In vitro gas production study (24 h) was performed with graded levels of silkworm pupae oil, namely, 0.5, 1, 2, 4, and 5% of the basal diet and four variable dietary regimes consisting roughage and concentrate in different proportions (70:30, 60:40, 50:50, and 40:60). At the end of incubation, gas samples were analyzed for methane, while fermented rumen liquor was used for protozoa enumeration. A separate set of incubations was carried out for the determination of in vitro dry matter digestibility.
Results: Results from the in vitro studies revealed no adverse impact of the silkworm pupae oil supplementation up to 2% level on total gas production. However, supplementation beyond 2% has shown a reduction in total gas production. Incubation with variable levels (0.5-5%) of silkworm pupae oil with different dietary regimes indicated negligible (3-5%) to a substantial reduction (25-30%) on methane production. A graded decrement in methane production was recorded with increasing levels of silkworm pupae oil. Similarly, the protozoal populations were decreased from 10 to 51.5% with graded levels of silkworm pupae oil in different dietary regimes as studies did not reveal any significant (p>0.05) variation between 2 and 4% of oil supplementation.
Conclusion: The silkworm pupae oil supplementation at 2% level decreases methane production by 12-15% without any adverse impact on feed fermentation. Oil supplementation may have a more pronounced effect on methane reduction if added to high roughage diet at in vitro conditions. However, in vivo, studies in ruminants are warranted to confirm the methane reduction with silkworm pupae oil supplementation.
Keywords: dry matter digestibility, methane production, protozoa, silkworm pupae oil.

Babesia canis spp. in dogs in Baghdad Province, Iraq: First molecular identification and clinical and epidemiological study

Research (Published online: 28-03-2020)
27. Babesia canis spp. in dogs in Baghdad Province, Iraq: First molecular identification and clinical and epidemiological study
Naseir Mohammed Badawi and Afaf Abdulrahman Yousif
Veterinary World, 13(3): 579-585
Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate babesiosis in dogs of different breeds and ages and of both sexes in Baghdad Province by molecular detection of Babesia canis using conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequencing followed by phylogenetic analyses.
Materials and Methods: Blood samples were collected from 310 dogs of different ages and breeds, and of both sexes in different areas of Baghdad Province from December 2018 to September 2019; during clinical examinations, body temperature, pulse, respiratory rate, and signs of diseases were recorded. PCR was used to amplify a specific 450-bp fragment of the 18S rRNA gene of B. canis. PCR products were sequenced, and MEGA 6.0 software was used for analysis. Chi-square and odds ratio tests were used to investigate the prevalence and risk factors of babesiosis.
Results: Clinical signs of babesiosis included paleness or icterus of the mucus membranes, tick infestation, and febrile illness during the acute and subacute phase. The prevalence of infection with B. canis was 5.1%, with the higher prevalence in male dogs and in dogs <3 years of age. Huskies were more likely to be infected than other dogs. Infection prevalence was highest in April and June and was higher in spring and summer than in winter. Using sequence data, 14 isolates of Babesia canis canis and one isolate of each Babesia canis rossi and Babesia canis vogeli were identified. Phylogenetic analyses of B. canis canis revealed that three shared clades and several isolated lineages were similar to other isolates (97-99% similarity), whereas B. canis vogeli and B. canis rossi showed similarities of 98% and 99% with isolates from other geographical regions.
Conclusion: This study provides the first molecular record and phylogenic analysis of B. canis in dogs in Iraq, and it will be valuable for confirming clinical signs and studying epidemiological risk factors of babesiosis in dogs.
Keywords: 18S rRNA gene, Babesia canis, Baghdad, dog, Iraq.

Friday 27 March 2020

Univariate associations between housing, management, and facility design factors and the prevalence of lameness lesions in fourteen small-scale dairy farms in Northeastern Algeria

Research (Published online: 27-03-2020)
26. Univariate associations between housing, management, and facility design factors and the prevalence of lameness lesions in fourteen small-scale dairy farms in Northeastern Algeria
Zoubida Dendani-Chadi, Khelaf Saidani, Loubna Dib, Fayçal Zeroual, Faouzi Sammar and Ahmed Benakhla
Veterinary World, 13(3): 570-578
ABSTRACT
Background and Aim: This cross-sectional study aimed to analyze the associations between different types of housing, management, and facilities on the prevalence of lame, causing lesions in smallholder dairy farms in Algeria.
Materials and Methods: The on-site investigation took place between December 2012 and May 2015. All cows were locomotion scored on a four-point scale, and foot lesions causing lame were diagnosed and recorded. Factors related to the farm and the cows' conditions were also assessed. The association between the possible risk factors and lame lesions was assessed using univariate analysis.
Results: Of the 349 cows evaluated, 13% were lame (lameness score ≥2), with higher lameness values recorded for the hind feet than for the forefeet. Cows without lameness were classified as healthy. The two most frequent lesion diagnoses observed in lame cows were interdigital dermatitis/heel horn erosion (ID/HE; 39%) and interdigital phlegmon (IP; 35%), followed by traumatic lesions (T; 11%), digital dermatitis (DD; 8.7%), and laminitis-related diseases (L; 6.5%). The risk of being lame was increased in large herds with cows of the Holstein breed, and those in the third parity and above. Tie housing, concrete floor, concentrate feeding, zero-grazing, and the use of foot trimming occasionally were associated with increased risk for the presence of lame lesions. The region and footbathing frequency had no association with the prevalence of lame lesions (p≥0.05).
Conclusion: These results have important implications; they indicate that several aspects of housing, management, and facility design are common protective factors for the prevalence of lame lesions. These factors should be maintained correctly to not only reduce the number of lame cows in these herds but also decrease the direct and indirect costs associated with cases of lameness.
Keywords: Algeria, housing, lame cows, lesions, management, pasture.

Thursday 26 March 2020

Lower urinary tract lithiasis of cats in Algeria: Clinical and epidemiologic features

Research (Published online: 26-03-2020)
25. Lower urinary tract lithiasis of cats in Algeria: Clinical and epidemiologic features
Hayet Remichi, Fatma Amira Hani, Myriem Rebouh, Chabha Benmohand, Wahiba Zenad and Sofiane Boudjellaba
Veterinary World, 13(3): 563-569
ABSTRACT
Aim: This study aims to describe the clinical symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of urolithiasis of the lower urinary tract and to determine the main risk factors involved in the occurrence of urinary lithiasis in cats in Algeria from 2016 to 2018.
Materials and Methods: During the study period, 465 cats were examined and 32 cases of urolithiases were selected and investigated by conducting physical examinations, blood analyses, urinalysis, X-ray radiography, and ultrasonography. Parameters such as breed, age, or sex were studied and reported in a farm return to analyze risk factors involved in the formation of lower urinary urolithiasis.
Results: The most clinically relevant symptoms of urolithiasis observed in cats were dysuria, pollakiuria, hematuria, and stranguria. Urinalysis and blood analysis revealed a significant presence of urinary crystals and acute kidney failure in nine cats. The ultrasonography and radiography confirmed the diagnosis of urolithiasis with the incidence of 43.75% and 31.25%, respectively. The lower urinary tract urolithiasis appeared to be more frequent in European and Siamese cats. In addition, cats aged between 4 and 8 years old were the most affected. Male cats (87.50%) were more affected than female cats. Finally, the lower urinary tract urolithiasis was more frequent in cats consuming the commercial pet food, previously castrated, and confined inside the house.
Conclusion: Complete clinical assessments, in addition to complementary examinations, are necessary and beneficial in treating the animal and preventing possible complications. Whether the choice of therapy is surgical or treatment with drugs, it is crucial to understand that the elimination of the stone is not an end, but the beginning of a series of investigations. Because of their impact on both the formation and elimination of metabolites, it has been found that factors, such as race, gender, age, diet, and lifestyle, should be considered as potential risk factors for urolithiasis.
Keywords: cat, epidemiology, management, radiography, ultrasonography, urolithiasis.

Wednesday 25 March 2020

Protamine and other proteins in sperm and seminal plasma as molecular markers of bull fertility

Review (Published online: 25-03-2020)
24. Protamine and other proteins in sperm and seminal plasma as molecular markers of bull fertility
Berlin Pandapotan Pardede, Muhammad Agil and Iman Supriatna
Veterinary World, 13(3): 556-562
ABSTRACT
Fertility is the most important aspect in the efforts to increase livestock populations. Protamine and various proteins in sperm and seminal plasma are the results of the molecular analysis which can be used as a marker of fertility. Each of the proteins plays an important role in the normal function of sperm, starting from the formation of sperm structure, motility, capacitation, cell protection, acrosome reactions, successful fertilization, egg activation, and embryonic development. Finally, these molecular components can be a marker of fertility and can help to diagnose the cases of infertility/subfertility in livestock in the field.
Keywords: fertility, molecular marker, protamine, seminal plasma, sperm proteins.

Tuesday 24 March 2020

The influence of electromagnetic radiation of cell phones on the behavior of animals

Research (Published online: 24-03-2020)
23. The influence of electromagnetic radiation of cell phones on the behavior of animals
Innar Sultangaliyeva, Raikhan Beisenova, Rumiya Tazitdinova, Akhan Abzhalelov and Marat Khanturin
Veterinary World, 13(3): 549-555
ABSTRACT
Background and Aim: The radiation emitted from cell phones has various deleterious effects on human health. The article considers the problem of the effects of electromagnetic radiation (EMR) of cell phones on the behavior of animals. The use of mobile phones is continually increasing throughout the world. All of the world population uses mobile phones widely; thus, having strong and daily effect on the brain. There is no restriction on the use of mobile phones. Getting more advantages and convenience of mobile communication, the population is trying not to hear the information about possible risks to their health, there is no element of self-restraint. The aim of this work was to study behavioral patterns in response to the influence of cell phones.
Materials and Methods: The experiments were carried out on 90 white outbred rats weighing 250-300 g. Experiments were carried out and the effect of EMR from Samsung Galaxy J1 mini and Xiaomi Redmi S2 phones on animal behavior was studied. Behavioral reactions were studied using the open field method.
Results: By the quality of the act of locomotion in the second experimental group is reduced by 30% and also in this group by the time of the act is 23% lower than in the control data. Vertical motor activity, a support stand, is also suppressed in the second experimental group: 61% lower in number and 47.2% lower in act time compared to the control group. Based on the data, we can conclude that the EMR of the phone Samsung Galaxy J1 Mini affects the behavior of animals to a greater extent than Xiaomi Redmi S2. By the frequency of the act, sniffing is 26% lower; by the time of the act, it remained at the level of control data in the second group. In the third group of the animals, the number and time of the act are 15% lower than the control data. The support stands as an indicator of research activity. In the second group the act of stand with support – by number was lower by 57% than the control data, this indicates that research activity is being suppressed.
Conclusion: According to the above changes under the action of EMR from the Samsung Galaxy J1 Mini and Xiaomi Redmi S2 phones, the motor component of behavior is suppressed. The research component of behavior in all groups of animals is enhanced due to high rates of sniffing. It is possible that in animals under stress, the motivation to interact with the environment decreases, leading to an excessive self-accentuation of the animal.
Keywords: cell phone, central nervous system, electromagnetic pollution, electromagnetic radiation, locomotion.

Molecular characterization of foot-and-mouth disease viruses collected from Northern and Central Ethiopia during the 2018 outbreak

Research (Published online: 24-03-2020)
22. Molecular characterization of foot-and-mouth disease viruses collected from Northern and Central Ethiopia during the 2018 outbreak
Yeneneh Tesfaye, Fazlurrahman Khan and Esayas Gelaye
Veterinary World, 13(3): 542-548

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is endemic in several developing countries and affects poor farmers through loss of production, death of diseased animals, and loss of animal byproducts. Forty-three samples were collected from 12 sites of five geographical located areas from suspected FMD virus (FMDV)-infected cattle during 2018. This study aimed to isolate and characterize the FMDVs using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and gene sequencing.
Materials and Methods: Forty-three FMDV-suspected clinical samples cultured on BHK-21 cell were examined, followed by virus serotype identification using RT-PCR and gene sequencing.
Results: Twenty-nine (67.44%) samples were cultured on BHK-21 cell, of which 14 (32.56%) were not isolated; the 43 samples were analyzed using FMDV screening primers and serotype-specific primers. The contribution of the disease-causing serotype was serotype O of 8 (18.60%) samples, serotype A of 20 (46.51%) samples, and mixed infection (O and A) of 1 (2.33%) sample. Serotypes O and A were further characterized by phylogenetic analysis, which grouped them under East Africa 3 and Africa topotypes of genotype IV, respectively. Interestingly, serotype A was isolated for the 1st time from Keyet sub-woreda and Mulo woreda of Ethiopia, and mixed serotypes (O and A) were identified from the purchased animal.
Conclusion: Molecular test result, sequencing, and phylogenetic tree reconstruction analysis revealed that the 2018 FMD outbreak in Ethiopia was caused by FMDV serotypes O and A. FMDV serotype A was the predominant strain circulating in most study areas of the country. Infections in one sample with mixed serotypes of O and A were also reported. The authors recommend a vaccine matching study of those field isolated viruses with the vaccine strain.
Keywords: Ethiopia, foot-and-mouth disease virus serotypes, phylogenetic analysis, reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction.

Sunday 22 March 2020

Veterinary World reviewer acknowledgment 2019

Reviewer Acknowledgment (Published online: 23-03-2020)
21. Veterinary World reviewer acknowledgment 2019
A. V. Sherasiya and Nazir
Veterinary World, 13(3): 538-541

Saturday 21 March 2020

The effect of crude guava leaf tannins on motility, viability, and intact plasma membrane of stored spermatozoa of Etawa crossbred goats

Research (Published online: 21-03-2020)
20. The effect of crude guava leaf tannins on motility, viability, and intact plasma membrane of stored spermatozoa of Etawa crossbred goats
Wurlina Wurlina, Mas'ud Hariadi, Erma Safitri, Suherni Susilowati and Dewa Ketut Meles
Veterinary World, 13(3): 530-537
ABSTRACT
Aim: The aim of this study was to know crude guava leaf tannins effect on motility, viability, and intact plasma membrane of stored spermatozoa of Etawa crossbred goats.
Materials and Methods: Macroscopic assessment of normal Etawa crossbred semen was followed by dilution with a glucose solution at a 1:10 ratio to increase volume. The diluted semen was treated by adding crude guava leaf tannins into 1 ml of the semen glucose diluent, and five treatments were obtained, namely, control group (C), with no added tannins; treatment Group 1 (T1), with 3%; treatment Group 2 (T2), with 6% tannins; treatment Group 3 (T3), with 12% tannins; and treatment Group 4 (T4), with 24% tannins. Each treatment used five replications. Then, microscopic analysis of the treated and control semen was carried out after 15 days of storage at 4-5°C temperature. The parameters observed were motility, pH, viability, abnormality, and intact spermatozoa plasma membrane.
Results: The spermatozoa motility in Group C was the highest (76.60±1.47). The motility in Group T1 did not differ from that in Group C, but was different and higher than that in Groups T2, T3, and T4. The pH of Group C tended to be acidic after 15 days of storage (4.78±0.01) as compared to the initial pH of fresh semen (6.76±0.12). The pH in Group C did not differ from that in the Groups T1 and T2, but differed from that in the T3 and T4 groups; the pH in the T3 and T4 groups was similar. The viability of spermatozoa in the T1 group was higher than that in all treatments (64.60±2.76); the lowest values were found in Group C (28.94±1.02). Group C had the lowest number of normal spermatozoa, with a mean of 72.58±3.48. The total number of abnormalities in the T2 group did not differ from those in the T3 group, and abnormalities in the T4 group did not differ from those in Group C, which exhibited the highest abnormalities in the head, neck, and tail. The most significant decrease was observed in the intact plasma membrane of spermatozoa on addition of 12% and 24% crude guava leaf tannin in glucose diluents.
Conclusion: The addition of 3% crude guava leaf tannin to crossbred Etawa goat semen diluted with glucose diluent and stored for 15 days at 4-5°C resulted in a significant effect on spermatozoa motility, viability, and intact plasma membrane, whereas the administration of 24% crude guava leaf tannin resulted in low live percentage of spermatozoa.
Keywords: crude tannins, intact plasma membrane, motility, spermatozoa, viability.

Friday 20 March 2020

Diagnostic evaluation of a point-of-care test for culture and microbial susceptibility testing in canine dermatological infections in clinical practice

Research (Published online: 20-03-2020)
19. Diagnostic evaluation of a point-of-care test for culture and microbial susceptibility testing in canine dermatological infections in clinical practice
Roberta Perego, Eva Spada, Piera Anna Martino and Daniela Proverbio
Veterinary World, 13(3): 521-529
ABSTRACT
Background and Aim: Empirical antimicrobial therapy is frequently given in superficial bacterial folliculitis (SBF) and otitis externa (OE) in dogs, especially for the initial clinical presentation. Culture and subsequent antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) are generally limited to chronic cases with poor response to initial therapy. Several factors contribute to the failure to implement the use of AST in veterinary practice, i.e., long laboratory turnaround time or special requirements for sample shipping. Point-of-care (PoC) testing might reduce laboratory turnaround time and costs and the risk of emergence of multidrug-resistant pathogens. This study evaluated the Speed Biogram™ PoC test in canine SBF and OE compared with conventional methods for culture and AST.
Materials and Methods: Thirty-four canine samples were analyzed: eleven from SBF, seven from bacterial OE, four from mixed OE, six from Malassezia spp. OE, and six negative controls. Sensitivity (Se) and specificity (Sp) of the PoC test and the agreement between the PoC test and conventional methods were evaluated.
Results: Se and Sp of PoC test in discriminating between healthy and unhealthy subjects were 100% (95% confidence interval [CI] 87.66-100.00) and 100% (95% CI 54.1-100.0), respectively. For bacterial identification, the k value was 0.532. Se and Sp of PoC tests for AST were 81.73% (95% CI 72.95-88.63) and 93.10% (95% CI 88.86-96.98), respectively with a total good agreement between tests (mean k=0.714), but major (8/27) and very major (19/27) errors were observed in 55% of bacterial conventional culture-positive samples.
Conclusion: PoC test can identify dogs with SBF and OE, but AST is not sufficiently accurate. The lack of susceptibility testing for methicillin makes this test inappropriate for use in small animal practice.
Keywords: antimicrobial susceptibility test, dog, otitis externa, point-of-care test, superficial bacterial folliculitis.

Acute and subacute toxicity tests of goat bile in BALB/c mice

Research (Published online: 20-03-2020)
18. Acute and subacute toxicity tests of goat bile in BALB/c mice
Heny Arwati, Windya T. Hapsari, Kartika A. Wardhani, Kholida N. Aini, Ramadhani R. Bahalwan, Puspa Wardhani and Willy Sandhika
Veterinary World, 13(3): 515-520
ABSTRACT
Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the toxicity of goat bile in BALB/c mice since some Indonesian people consume raw goat gallbladder to treat malaria and increase stamina.
Materials and Methods: Acute toxicity test was done in six groups of BALB/c mice using 100%, 50%, 25%, 12.5%, and 6.75% of goat bile and negative control. The death of mice was observed within 14 days. In the subacute toxicity test, the body weight and hematology parameters on day 0 and day 4 post-treatment were evaluated. The mice were closely observed for 28 days before plasma collection for the blood biochemistry evaluation.
Results: Mild diarrhea was observed in acute and subacute toxicity tests. No death of mice was observed in acute test. Goat bile did not inhibit the increase of the body weight of mice. A slight reduction in hemoglobin and hematocrit levels in mice treated with 25% and 50% goat bile, however, remained normal in mice treated with 100% goat bile. The red and white blood cell count were not affected. Liver and kidney functions were not affected by goat bile treatment as revealed by the plasma level of aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase, blood urea nitrogen, and creatinine, which remained in the normal range.
Conclusion: Goat bile treatment in BALB/c mice caused mild toxicity in mice. Hydrophobic bile acids may cause the toxicity of goat bile in mice; therefore, it is recommended that goat bile consumption not to be taken oftenly to avoid its harmful effect.
Keywords: BALB/c mice, goat bile, Indonesia, toxicity.

Thursday 19 March 2020

Antibacterial and cytotoxic activity assessment of Channa striatus (Haruan) extract

Research (Published online: 19-03-2020)
17. Antibacterial and cytotoxic activity assessment of Channa striatus (Haruan) extract
Nur Zulaikha Mat Zawawi, Rumaizi Shaari, Muhammad Luqman Nordin, Ruhil Hayati Hamdan, Tan Li Peng and C. W. Salma C. W. Zalati
Veterinary World, 13(3): 508-514
ABSTRACT
Background and Aim: Channa striatus extract, a freshwater snakehead fish known as Haruan, is popular in Southeast Asia for consumption and as a traditional therapeutic remedy for wound healing. C. striatus is also used in osteoarthritic for its anti-inflammatory. The aim of this study was to determine the presence of antibacterial properties of C. striatus extract against oral bacteria and to investigate the cytotoxic activity against Vero cells.
Materials and Methods: The authors prepared C. striatus extract in chloroform-methanol solvents. Next, the authors took subgingival microbiological samples from 16 cats that had periodontal disease. The authors determined the antibacterial properties of C. striatus extract against the isolated bacteria using the disk diffusion method and a broth microdilution-based resazurin microtiter assay. Finally, the authors used the Vero cell line to evaluate the cytotoxic activity, and they assessed the cell availability using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay.
Results: The results showed weak antibacterial activity of C. striatus extract against Pseudomonas spp. and Escherichia coli. In addition, the authors found that minimum inhibition concentration values ranged between 400 and 500 mg/mL, and minimum bactericidal concentration values ranged between 650 and 550 mg/mL. However, the cytotoxic results were promising, showing that C. striatus extract increased the cell viability and growth when it was at a higher concentration. The extract also promotes growth and cell proliferation.
Conclusion: These findings suggest that C. striatus extract promoted cell proliferation in vitro and could be a plausible therapeutic wound healing alternative for periodontal disease in cats.
Keywords: antibacterial properties, Channa striatus, feline periodontitis, periodopathogen.

Wednesday 18 March 2020

Prescription of antibiotics as a source of emerging antibiotic resistance: Knowledge, attitudes, and practices of medical staff in the Dassa-Glazoué and Savalou-Bantè's health zones (Benin, West Africa)

Research (Published online: 18-03-2020)
7. Prescription of antibiotics as a source of emerging antibiotic resistance: Knowledge, attitudes, and practices of medical staff in the Dassa-Glazoué and Savalou-Bantè's health zones (Benin, West Africa)
Victorien Dougnon, Yossounon Chabi, Hornel Koudokpon, Jerrold Agbankpe, Richard Sefounon, Didier Alle, Honoré Bankole and Lamine Baba-Moussa
International Journal of One Health, 6(1): 34-40
ABSTRACT
Background and Aim: Antibiotics have been some great effective molecules against infections since their discovery. The excessive use and misuse of antibiotics have resulted in a selection of antibiotic-resistant strains. Among the reasons involved, the prescription of antibiotics can be important. The present study aimed to contribute to the reduction of antibiotic resistance due to the misuse of antibiotics.
Materials and Methods: A knowledge, attitude, and practice survey of health professionals from Savalou-Bante (230) and Dassa-Glazoué (100) health zones was performed about the prescription of antibiotics.
Results: About 53% of respondents in the health zone of Savalou-Bantè were assistant nursing and only 3% of them were specialized physicians. The other respondents were physicians (3%), midwives (10%), and nurses (31%). Forty-five percent of the respondents were nurses and only 5% of them were specialized physicians in Savalou-Bantè. However, all these health professionals prescribe antibiotics. The first-line antibiotics prescribed were penicillins, cephalosporins, macrolides, aminoglycosides, and quinolones. These health professionals usually have no knowledge of the mechanism of action of these antibiotics. The antibiotics prescribed mostly were for ear, nose, and throat and upper respiratory infections (80% in Dassa-Glazoué and 79% in Savalou-Bantè). The most commonly used dosage form was tablets (58%) in the health zone of Savalou-Bantè and the injectable form in the sanitary zone of Dassa-Glazouè.
Conclusion: It is important to implement a policy of rational use of antibiotics to reduce the excessive and misuse of antibiotics and prevent antibiotic resistance.
Keywords: antibiotics, health professionals, knowledge, prescription.

Tuesday 17 March 2020

Variability of serum reproductive hormones in cows presenting various reproductive conditions in semi-arid areas of the North West Province, South Africa

Research (Published online: 17-03-2020)
16. Variability of serum reproductive hormones in cows presenting various reproductive conditions in semi-arid areas of the North West Province, South Africa
K. Molefe and M. Mwanza
Veterinary World, 13(3): 502-507
Background and Aim: Hormones play a significant role in supporting reproductive processes. Predisposition to metabolic disorders may result from biological alterations in the neurohormonal system, thus leading to impaired immune function and poor reproductive performance. The aim of this study was to determine the reproductive hormonal profile in cows with reproductive conditions in semi-arid areas of the North West Province, South Africa, to establish possible correlations between different conditions and the hormonal profile.
Materials and Methods: Blood samples were collected from cows in different communal areas of Mafikeng. Convenience sampling was used to collect samples for the study. Blood samples were collected cows experiencing dystocia (n=50), retained placenta (n=13), downer cow syndrome (n=34), vaginal prolapse (n=16), and abortions (n=69), following cases reported at the Animal Health Hospital of the North-West University, Mafikeng Campus. Descriptive statistics, such as mean and standard deviations, were used to describe the distribution of hormone levels across reproductive conditions. p-value less than the significance level was set at 5% (p<0.05).
Results: Data obtained revealed significantly higher estradiol in abortion (1122.99±71.99 pg/ml), downer cow syndrome (781.32±135.7 pg/ml), and dystocia (862.09±123.44 pg/ml). Oxytocin (OT) differed significantly in cows with dystocia (370.50±71.66 pg/ml) and abortion (574.73±60.65 pg/ml). Significantly low progesterone (Pg) was observed in abortion (2.45±1.509 ng/ml) and dystocia (8.59±0.402 ng/ml) while increased prostaglandin alpha was observed in cows with vaginal prolapse and abortion.
Conclusion: The findings highlight an increase in serum estradiol and OT in aborting cows. Low Pg and estradiol in cows with vaginal prolapses and retained placenta were noted. An association was seen between downer cow syndrome and high concentrations of estradiol and Pg. Prostaglandin alpha may increase in cases of vaginal prolapse and abortion. Hormonal alterations were observed and may contribute to the incidences of different reproductive conditions.
Keywords: cows, hormones, reproductive conditions.

Monday 16 March 2020

Molecular and cellular evidence of natural Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus infection in frugivorous bats in Colombia

Research (Published online: 16-03-2020)
15. Molecular and cellular evidence of natural Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus infection in frugivorous bats in Colombia
Camilo Guzmán, Alfonso Calderón, Teresa Oviedo, Salim Mattar, José Castañeda, Virginia Rodriguez and Luiz Tadeu Moraes Figueiredo
Veterinary World, 13(3): 495-501
ABSTRACT
Background and Aim: Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus (VEEV) is an alphavirus that causes encephalitis with a high impact on public health in Latin America. However, only in Guatemala, Trinidad and Tobago, and Mexico have found antibodies in VEEV in bats, using immunohistochemistry, the sensitivity and specificity are improved; thus, it is better for demonstrating natural infection in bats as potential hosts. This study aimed to determine the presence of VEEV in tissues of frugivorous bats.
Materials and Methods: A prospective descriptive cross-sectional study with a non-probabilistic sampling was carried out in 12 localities of Córdoba and Sucre area of the Colombian Caribbean. Two hundred and eighty-six bats were captured using fog nets, and the specimens according to taxonomic keys were classified. According to the Ethics Committee of the University of Córdoba, the bats were treated with analgesics and anesthetics. Blood samples were taken and then euthanized to obtain tissues and organs which were preserved in liquid N2 at –196°C. A portion of each organ was fixed in 10% buffered formalin for the detection of antigens by immunohistochemistry. Several pathological anatomy analyses were performed to determine the histological characteristics of tissue lesions of frugivorous bats naturally infected with the VEEV.
Results: Of the 286 bats captured, 23 species were identified. In samples of the brain, spleen, and lung of two frugivorous bats (2/286=0.70%) Artibeus planirostris and Sturnira lilium, the presence of VEEV was confirmed by immunohistochemistry.
Conclusion: A fragment of the nsP4 non-structural protein gene corresponding to the alphavirus was amplified. Two samples were positive (2/286=0.70%) in frugivorous bats; A. planirostris (code GenBank: MG820274) and S. lilium (code GenBank: MG820275). The present study showed the first molecular evidence and cellular evidence (histopathology and immunohistochemistry) of natural VEEV infection in frugivorous bats in Colombia; these bats could be a host of this zoonosis.
Keywords: Alphavirus infections, Chiroptera, pathology.

Saturday 14 March 2020

Effect of supplementation with rumen-protected choline and green tea extract on production performance of transition Karan Fries cows

Research (Published online: 14-03-2020)
14. Effect of supplementation with rumen-protected choline and green tea extract on production performance of transition Karan Fries cows
Parag Acharya, S. S. Lathwal, Pawan Singh, Neela Madhav Patnaik and Baisakhi Moharana
Veterinary World, 13(3): 489-494
ABSTRACT
Aim: The main objective of this study was to estimate the effect of supplementation of rumen-protected choline (RPC) and green tea extract (GTE) on production parameters in transition Karan Fries (KF) cows.
Materials and Methods: The present experiment was carried out on 32 pregnant KF cows. In the control group, cows were fed basal diet. In T1, each cow was fed RPC (55 g/day), in T2 – GTE (3 g/d), and in T3 – RPC + GTE (55+3) g/day along with basal diet. The duration of the experiment was 30 days before calving to 60 days after parturition.
Results: Feeding of both RPC and GTE significantly increased milk yield (p≤0.01), 4% fat corrected milk yield (p≤0.01), milk fat (p≤0.01), and total solid content (p≤0.05) than control. There was no significant difference (p≥0.05) in milk protein, lactose, and solids not fat ( SNF) content among the groups.
Conclusion: Supplementing RPC and GTE in combination improved milk yield and fat content of the milk without altering protein, lactose content of the milk in transition KF cows.
Keywords: green tea extract, milk fat, milk yield, production, rumen-protected choline, transition Karan Fries cows.

Clustering and spatial heterogeneity of bovine tuberculosis at the livestock/wildlife interface areas in Namwala District of Zambia

Research (Published online: 14-03-2020)
13. Clustering and spatial heterogeneity of bovine tuberculosis at the livestock/wildlife interface areas in Namwala District of Zambia
Novan Fully Proud Tembo, John Bwalya Muma, Bernard Hang'ombe and Musso Munyeme
Veterinary World, 13(3): 478-488
ABSTRACT
Background and Aim: Bovine tuberculosis (bTB) remains a major public health issue in Zambia and has been exacerbated by human immunodeficiency virus prevalence and consumption of unpasteurized milk in the Southern Province of the country. The prevalence of bTB has been established to be linked to Kafue Lechwe, which act as reservoir hosts and share grazing fields with domestic cattle. No studies have so far used geographic information system (GIS) to investigate the relationship between the reservoir hosts (Kafue Lechwe) and domestic animals. This study, therefore, aimed to apply GIS to investigate the spatial distribution of bTB in Namwala District of the Southern Province of the country.
Materials and Methods: To investigate the spatial distribution of bTB, geographical positioning system (GPS) coordinates representing 96 cattle herds across 20 independent villages were captured alongside risk factor data. The 96 herds were based on abattoir reports of condemned carcasses and a trace back. Positive herds were confirmed by cross-reference to purified protein derivative tests conducted by the District Veterinary Office. The GPS coordinates were transferred into ArcView 3.2 and laid on the map of Namwala District alongside physical features, including national parks, game management areas, and flood plains. Questionnaires were administered across 96 independent households to assess risk factors of bTB transmission.
Results: The results revealed a "clustered" spatial distribution of the disease in cattle in Namwala District of Zambia, particularly significant in the eastern interface areas of the district (p=0.006 using Moran's I). Abattoir to production area trace back revealed a herd-level prevalence of 36.4% (95% CI=26.7-46.3%) among cattle herds in Namwala District, whereas individual animal prevalence ranged from 0% to 14% (95% CI=2.4-26.2%). Further, GPS data indicated that the majority of the positive herds were located at the livestock/wildlife interface area. Contacts with wildlife, coupled with sharing grazing, and watering points were found to be significant risk factors for bTB transmission.
Conclusion: This study demonstrated the presence of bTB in cattle and associated spatial risk factors. In particular, bTB was observed to be a function of animal location within the livestock/wildlife interface area. GIS is thus an applicable and important tool in studying disease distribution.
Keywords: geographic information system, reservoir hosts, spatial distribution, zoonotic tuberculosis (bovine tuberculosis).