Risk factors associated with acute hepatopancreatic necrosis disease at shrimp farm level in Bac Lieu Province, Vietnam

Research (Published online: 30-04-2021)

34. Risk factors associated with acute hepatopancreatic necrosis disease at shrimp farm level in Bac Lieu Province, Vietnam

Hien The Nguyen, Toan Nguyen Van, Tien Tien Ngoc, Visanu Boonyawiwat, Theera Rukkwamsuk and Adisorn Yawongsa

Veterinary World, 14(4): 1050-1058

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Acute hepatopancreatic necrosis disease (AHPND) is a severe disease in shrimp farms and adversely affected the shrimp industry of Vietnam. So far, the study on risk factors associated with AHPND outbreaks is limited. The objective of this study was to determine the potential risk factors of AHPND at the shrimp farm level in Bac Lieu Province, Vietnam.

Materials and Methods: Real-time-Polymerase chain reaction was used to analyze data collected from an active surveillance program of shrimp farms in 2017 in the Vinh Tien and Vinh Lac villages, Vinh Thinh commune, Hoa Binh district in Bac Lieu Province, Vietnam. The matched case-control study selected 20 cases and 20 control farms from 134 shrimp farms. In 2018, face-to-face interviews using structured questionnaires were conducted with the farmers of these selected farms.

Results: Of the 59 studied variables, seven had p≤0.2 based on bivariate analyses. The results of multivariable analysis showed that the presence of fish-eating birds on shrimp farms was a significant association with AHPND (odds ratio=8, p=0.049).

Conclusion: To reduce the effect of AHPND, farmers should apply effective methods to manage wild animals such as using a grid or net to cover the pond, combined with improved biosecurity.

Keywords: conditional logistic regression, early mortality syndrome, fish-eating bird, matched case-control study, odd ratio.

Prevalence of Balantidium coli (Malmsten, 1857) infection in swine reared in South Italy: A widespread neglected zoonosis

Research (Published online: 30-04-2021)

33. Prevalence of Balantidium coli (Malmsten, 1857) infection in swine reared in South Italy: A widespread neglected zoonosis

Filippo Giarratana, Luca Nalbone, Ettore Napoli, Vincenzo Lanzo and Antonio Panebianco

Veterinary World, 14(4): 1044-1049

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Balantidiasis, caused by Balantidium coli (syn. Neobalantidium coli or B. coli), represents a neglected parasitic infection of zoonotic significance affecting a variety of hosts, including domestic pigs that are the main reservoir. B. coli has a direct life cycle with a fecal-oral route transmission that occurs mainly by the ingestion of food and water contaminated with cysts. The ingestion of meat contaminated during inappropriate slaughtering processes may represent a new potential route of transmission. Only a few studies have investigated the prevalence of B. coli in domestic pigs in Italy, despite its high prevalence and zoonotic significance. This study aimed to improve the knowledge on B. coli prevalence in domestic swine reared both in intensive and "en plein air" breeding systems in the south of Italy.

Materials and Methods: The infection rate of B. coli in pigs bred in 15 different pig farms and regularly slaughtered in South Italy, in the Calabria region, was investigated. From 2017 to 2019, 177 terminal parts of the rectums of pigs, of which 91 commercial hybrids and 86 autochthonous (Nero Calabrese), reared, respectively, in intensive and "en plein air" breeding system, were tested for parasite detection. After the slaughtering, the terminal part of the rectum was sampled and transported to the laboratories and immediately processed. For the detection of trophozoites, fresh smears of feces were examined at light microscopy. Moreover, flotation was performed using a sodium chloride solution, then smears of feces were dispersed on microscope slides and examined at light microscopy. The observed parasites were identified at the species level using morphological characteristics.

Results: B. coli was detected in a total of 83 (i.e., 46.89%) pigs, with a significantly higher prevalence (p<0.0001) found in commercial hybrid (i.e., 59/91-64.84%) pigs rather than in autochthonous ones (i.e., 24/86-27.91%). It follows that the infection was more common in pigs reared in the intensive breeding system than in "en plein air" ones (p<0.0001). The infection prevalence was higher in males than in females and lower in elder animals than in younger ones (p=0.012 and p<0.0001, respectively).

Conclusion: The breeding system is likely the main discriminant for the parasite spread as well as the hygienic condition of the farms. Good manufacturing and hygiene practices along the food production chain are crucial in preventing human balantidiasis transmission by meat consumption. The high B. coli prevalence, the wide spectrum of host species, and its zoonotic significance push toward a greater public interest.

Keywords: Balantidium coli, ciliate protozoa, protozoa, swine, zoonosis.

First report of canine parvovirus molecular detection in Bangladesh

Research (Published online: 29-04-2021)

32. First report of canine parvovirus molecular detection in Bangladesh

F. M. Yasir Hasib, Sharmin Akter and Sharmin Chowdhury

Veterinary World, 14(4): 1038-1043

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Canine parvovirus (CPV) is the most important cause of mortality in dogs in many parts of the world. Clinical cases exhibit characteristic signs, including foul-smelling bloody diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and dehydration. This study assessed field and vaccine variants of parvovirus in the Chattogram metropolitan area, Bangladesh. The investigation also aimed to identify risk factors for this disease. This research is the first to identify the presence of CPV in Bangladesh through molecular examination.

Materials and Methods: From October to December 2019, a total of 100 dogs were included in the study. Rectal swabs were taken from all dogs. Twenty dogs showed clinical signs of parvovirus. All clinically affected animals along with 20 randomly selected healthy dogs were tested using amplification refractory mutation system (ARMS)-polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to identify variants from the samples. Logistic regression model analysis was performed to determine the possible risk factors for CPV.

Results: ARMS-PCR showed the presence of all three variants, CPV2a, CPV2b, and CPV2c, in clinically ill dogs, and vaccines available in the study area showed either CPV2a or CPV2b strain. The CPV2c variants showed a higher incidence than the other variants. All apparently healthy animals tested were molecularly negative. Multivariable logistic regression model (generalized linear mixed model) indicated that exotic breeds were 3.83 times more likely to be infected by CPV than local breeds. Furthermore, dogs reared in semi-intensive and extensive management systems were 3.64 and 3.79 times more likely to be infected, respectively, than those reared in an intensive management system.

Conclusion: These findings provide practitioners and pet owners information on the occurrence of different variants and help design effective prevention strategies for CPV infection.

Keywords: Bangladesh, canine parvovirus, CPV2a, CPV2b, CPV2c.

Comparative analysis of canine mesenchymal stem cells and bone marrow-derived mononuclear cells

Research (Published online: 29-04-2021)

31. Comparative analysis of canine mesenchymal stem cells and bone marrow-derived mononuclear cells

Noritaka Maeta, Katsutoshi Tamura, Fuuna Ezuka and Hiroshi Takemitsu

Veterinary World, 14(4): 1028-1037

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), which have multi-lineage differentiation potentials, are a promising source for regenerative medicine. However, the focus of study of MSCs is shifting from the characterization of the differentiation potential to their secretion potential for cell transplantation. Tissue regeneration and the attenuation of immune responses are thought to be affected by the secretion of multiple growth factors and cytokines by MSCs. However, the secretion potential of MSCs profiling remains incompletely characterized. In this study, we focused on the secretion ability related and protein mRNA expression of dog adipose tissue-derived MSCs (AT-MSC), bone marrow (BM)-derived MSCs, and BM-derived mononuclear cells (BM-MNC).

Materials and Methods: Real-time polymerase chain reaction analyses revealed mRNA expression of nine growth factors and seven interleukins in these types of cells and three growth factors protein expression were determined using Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

Results: For the BM-MNC growth factors, the mRNA expression of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) was the highest. For the BM-derived MSC (BM-MSC) and AT-MSC growth factors, the mRNA expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) was highest. BM-MSCs and AT-MSCs showed similar expression profiles. In contrast, BM-MNCs showed unique expression profiles for hepatocyte growth factor and epidermal growth factor. The three types of cells showed a similar expression of TGF-β.

Conclusion: We conclude that expression of cytokine proteins and mRNAs suggests involvement in tissue repair and protection.

Keywords: bone marrow-derived mononuclear cell, canine, growth factor, interleukin, mesenchymal stem cell, secretion.

Antibiotic resistance of Escherichia coli and Salmonella spp. strains isolated from healthy poultry farms in the districts of Abidjan and Agnibilékrou (Côte d'Ivoire)

Research (Published online: 28-04-2021)

30. Antibiotic resistance of Escherichia coli and Salmonella spp. strains isolated from healthy poultry farms in the districts of Abidjan and Agnibilékrou (Côte d'Ivoire)

Moumouni A. Assoumy, André P. Bedekelabou, Assiongbon Teko-Agbo, Walter Ossebi, Komlan Akoda, Félix Nimbona, Stanislas H. Zeba, Anicet A. Zobo, Raoul C. T. Tiecoura, Vessaly Kallo, Komissiri Dagnogo and Rianatou Bada-Alambédji

Veterinary World, 14(4): 1020-1027

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a serious challenge to animal and human health worldwide. Therefore, this study aims to determine levels and patterns of AMR of Escherichia coli and Salmonella spp. strains isolated from poultry farms in Côte d'Ivoire.

Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in two districts of Côte d'Ivoire with high poultry production: Abidjan and Agnibilékrou. A total of 231 fecal samples were collected in 124 poultry farms in both districts. Enterobacteria were isolated and tested for susceptibility to 14 antimicrobial agents using the disk-diffusion method.

Results: A total of 212 E. coli and 36 Salmonella strains were isolated. In Abidjan, 139 collected samples generated 101 E. coli and 23 Salmonella strains, whereas in Agnibilékrou, 92 collected samples generated 111 E. coli and 13 Salmonella strains. Variable resistance levels were recorded for the antibiotics tested. The resistance prevalence of E. coli and Salmonella, respectively, was high: Doxycycline (98%/94%), sulfonamide (84%/86%), trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (80%/41%), and streptomycin (71%/52%). Average resistance rates were recorded for flumequine (38%/66%), ampicillin (49%/33%), amoxicillin (25%/44%), colistin (26%/2%), chloramphenicol (21%/2%), and gentamicin (4%/47%). The antibiotics least affected by resistance were cefuroxime (4%/5%), ceftriaxone (2%/0.00%), and nitrofurantoin (1%/0.00%).

Conclusion: In this study, it was observed that resistance to important antibiotics is emerging in poultry production in Côte d'Ivoire. Policies promoting the rational use of antibiotics should be implemented to manage antibiotic resistance in animal production.

Keywords: antibiotic resistance, Côte d'Ivoire, Escherichia coli, poultry, Salmonella spp.

Assessing factors associated with owner's individual decision to vaccinate their dogs against rabies: A house-to-house survey in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso

Research (Published online: 27-04-2021)

29. Assessing factors associated with owner's individual decision to vaccinate their dogs against rabies: A house-to-house survey in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso

Madi Savadogo, Abdoul-Fataf Soré, Laibané Dieudonné Dahourou, Walter Ossebi, Alima Hadjia Banyala Combari, Rianatou Bada Alambedji and Zékiba Tarnagda

Veterinary World, 14(4): 1014-1019

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: In rabies endemic area, dog vaccination is an effective way of controlling the disease in animals and humans if a minimum of 70% vaccination coverage is reached. This study aimed to identify dog demographics and household characteristics associated with dogs' vaccination against rabies in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.

Materials and Methods: A questionnaire was used to collect data from respondents with regard to their dogs' demographics and their household characteristics. Chi-square test and Fisher's exact test were performed to assess the association between explicative variables and the dogs' vaccination status.

Results: Overall, as per the findings of this study, it was determined that out of 424 dogs, 57.8% were reportedly vaccinated. The vaccination status was significantly associated with most of the household variables (e.g., gender of the respondent, age, level of education, main means of transportation, participation in a vaccination campaign, knowledge on rabies, and knowledge on dog vaccination) and the dogs' variables (breed of dog, dog origin, purpose for keeping, confinement status, and perceived behavior) (p<0.05). Moreover, only religion, type of housing, knowledge of rabies transmission modes, and dog sex were not significantly associated with vaccination status (p>0.05).

Conclusion: Our study generated informative data showing that animal health workers could develop effective rabies vaccination strategy planning by examining owned dog demographics and their husbandry practices in households.

Keywords: Burkina Faso, dog vaccination, household survey, owned dogs, rabies control.

First evidence of Klebsiella pneumoniae infection in Aceh cattle: Pathomorphology and antigenic distribution in the lungs

Research (Published online: 27-04-2021)

28. First evidence of Klebsiella pneumoniae infection in Aceh cattle: Pathomorphology and antigenic distribution in the lungs

Darniati Darniati, Surachmi Setiyaningsih, Dewi Ratih Agungpriyono and Ekowati Handharyani

Veterinary World, 14(4): 1007-1013

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Klebsiella pneumoniae is an emerging zoonotic and foodborne pathogen worldwide. Hypervirulent K. pneumoniae (hvKp) was reported as the causative agent of bovine mastitis. This is the first study in Indonesia that has been conducted to determine the capsular serotype of K. pneumoniae, pulmonary gross pathology and histopathology, and distribution of hvKp in the lungs of Aceh cattle.

Materials and Methods: The presence of K. pneumoniae in Aceh cattle was investigated in two slaughterhouses in Banda Aceh and Aceh Besar, Indonesia. Lung tissues with gross pathological lesions were collected from 15 cattle presenting with depression, dehydration, or cachexia. The confirmation and capsular serotyping of K. pneumoniae isolates were performed using polymerase chain reaction. The tissues were stained with hematoxylin-eosin and immunohistochemistry to observe the histopathological lesions and the distribution of the hvKp antigens.

Results: The pneumonic lesions identified in the lungs of Aceh cattle included hyperemia, hemorrhage, consolidation, and atelectasis. K. pneumoniae was isolated in all 15 lung tissues with pathological pneumonic lesions. Two patterns of infection were observed histopathologically. Acute infection was characterized by hyperemia, inflammatory cell infiltration, hemorrhage, bronchiolar epithelium hyperplasia, bronchial and bronchiolar obstruction with purulent exudates, edema, and atelectasis. On the other hand, chronic infection was defined by macrophage infiltration, emphysema, bronchial dilatation, pleural fibrosis, and alveolar wall thickening by interstitial fibrosis. Immunohistochemical staining using monospecific antisera induced by the hvKp isolate confirmed the presence of K. pneumoniae-specific antigens in the acute infection, predominantly in the bronchiolar, vascular, and alveolar areas. In contrast, generally diffuse infiltrates were found in the pleura and interstitial alveolar areas in chronic infection.

Conclusion: hvKp can be detected in the lungs of Aceh cattle, representing acute and chronic infections. The distribution of Klebsiella antigens in the lung tissue was consistent with the histopathological findings.

Keywords: Aceh cattle, capsular serotyping, histopathology, immunohistochemistry, Klebsiella pneumoniae, lung.

Determination of natural antibodies, beta-hydroxybutyric acid, and non-esterified fatty acid levels in the serum of peripartum Tuj and Hemşin sheep

Research (Published online: 26-04-2021)

27. Determination of natural antibodies, beta-hydroxybutyric acid, and non-esterified fatty acid levels in the serum of peripartum Tuj and Hemşin sheep

Cihan Kaçar, Semra Kaya, Mushap Kuru, Ekin Emre Erkiliç, Metin Öğün, Hasan Oral and Murat Can Demir

Veterinary World, 14(4): 1002-1006

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Many metabolic and immunological changes occur during the transition period. Innate immunity plays an important role against to infections and natural antibodies (NAb) are important in immunity. This study aims to determine a connection between serum NAb titers, beta-hydroxybutyric acid (BHBA), and non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA) concentrations in Tuj and Hemsin sheep during the peripartum period.

Materials and Methods: Serum NAb, BHBA, and NEFA levels were determined from the blood samples collected from Tuj and Hemsin sheep on days 30 and 15 before birth, on the day of birth (day 0), and on days 15 and 30 after birth.

Results: NAb titers were found to be higher in Tuj than in Hemsin sheep (p<0.001). No statistically significant difference was found in serum BHBA concentrations of both breeds on all sampling days (p>0.05). The serum NEFA level was lower in Tuj sheep in the last 15 days of pregnancy compared to Hemsin sheep (p<0.05), while no difference was found in samples collected at the other time points.

Conclusion: This study indicated that serum NAb titers significantly changed in Tuj and Hemsin sheep during the transition period. Serum BHBA and NEFA concentrations increased during the last stages of pregnancy and decreased after birth. Based on these findings, it is suggested that the immunological status could vary by the breed of sheep or various factors that affect the sheep's metabolic state.

Keywords: beta-hydroxybutyric acid, ewe, natural antibody, non-esterified fatty acid, peripartum period.

Detection of Pestivirus in small ruminants in Central Java, Indonesia

Research (Published online: 24-04-2021)

26. Detection of Pestivirus in small ruminants in Central Java, Indonesia

W. Hidayat, H. Wuryastuty and R. Wasito

Veterinary World, 14(4): 996-1001 

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Globally, pestiviruses are among the most economically important viral pathogens of livestock. The genus Pestivirus comprises four species, including bovine viral diarrhea virus type 1 and 2 (BVDV-1 and BVDV-2), which infect cattle, border disease virus and classical swine fever virus which infect small ruminants and pigs, respectively. Accumulating evidence suggests that pestiviruses are no longer species-specific, creating new challenges for disease control. In Indonesia, investigations related to pestiviruses remain focused on cattle as the primary host and no research has been conducted on small ruminants (sheep and goats). Therefore, the present study aimed to study the possible occurrence of pestivirus (BVDV or BVD) infections in small ruminants in Indonesia, particularly in Central Java.

Materials and Methods: We used 46 blood samples consisting of 26 sheep's blood and 20 goat's blood. Samples were selected from 247 small ruminant blood collected between July and October 2020 in Central Java, Indonesia, which met the following criteria: Female, local species, approximately 1-2 years old, never been pregnant, raised in the backyard, and had no close contact with cattle in either shelter or grazing area. We tested plasma samples from sheep and goats using competitive antibody enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay to detect specific antibodies against pestivirus followed by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analysis for all positive samples to differentiate the species of pestivirus.

Results: Two of the 20 samples collected from goats were positive for pestivirus at the serological and molecular levels, whereas 2 of 26 samples collected from sheep were doubtful but tested negative by RT-PCR. The genotyping test results obtained using nested PCR revealed that the positive samples collected from goats had a BVDV-1 genotype.

Conclusion: The results of the present study demonstrated that BVDV-1 can infect species other than bovines, in Central Java, Indonesia. Further studies involving a larger number of samples are required to: (1) Determine the actual seroprevalence of pestiviruses in small ruminants and (2) Determine the potency of small ruminants as reservoirs for pestiviruses, both of which are important for the identification of the appropriate control program for pestiviruses in Indonesia.

Keywords: antibody enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, bovine viral diarrhea virus, pestivirus, reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction, small ruminants.

Detection of aerobic bacterial pathogens associated with early embryonic death in pregnant New Zealand female Rabbits in Egypt

Research (Published online: 24-04-2021)

25. Detection of aerobic bacterial pathogens associated with early embryonic death in pregnant New Zealand female Rabbits in Egypt

Heba Roshdy, Azhar G. Shalaby, Ahmed Abd Elhalem Mohamed and Heba Badr

Veterinary World, 14(4): 986-995

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Rabbits are a highly sensitive species and susceptible to various bacterial pathogens that may be causative agents for early embryonic death. This study aimed to explore the administration of different bacterial agents in does suffering from early embryonic death. Furthermore, identification of genes associated with virulence was performed to identify the phenotypic and genotypic antimicrobial resistance patterns that may increase the virulence of pathogens and lead to early embryonic death.

Materials and Methods: We isolated and identified bacterial agents in 106 samples from live and dead female rabbits that had undergone early embryonic death, including liver and intestine tissue, aborted fetuses, discharges, and vaginal swabs. Conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was conducted to confirm the identity of the isolated bacterial strains and their virulence. Moreover, antibiotic resistance was studied phenotypically and genotypically.

Results: We isolated Escherichia coli, Salmonella, Staphylococcus aureus, Pasteurella multocida, and Listeria monocytogenes. PCR confirmed typical identification except in P. multocida, which was confirmed as Gallibacterium spp. in some cases. The final percentage of detection was 34%, 30.2%, 16.9%, 13.2%, and 11.3%, respectively. Virulence properties were investigated using different designated genes. All Salmonella strains harbored invA, stn, avrA, and ompf genes, while the sopE gene was identified in 31.25%. E. coli strains harboring the iss gene lacked the shiga toxin (stx1) gene. L. monocytogenes and S. aureus strains harbored the hemolysin gene (66.7% and 33.4%, respectively). Multidrug resistance was detected phenotypically and genotypically in most strains. Each bacterial pathogen had a different antibiotic resistance profile.

Conclusion: Multiple bacterial species may contribute to early embryonic death in does. Furthermore, the combined infection could be the main cause of early embryonic death. Thus, monitoring programs should bear this in mind and focus on the early detection of these bacterial agents in female rabbits to avoid embryonic death.

Keywords: early embryonic death, Escherichia coli, Listeria, Rabbits, Salmonella, Staphylococcus aureus.

Occurrence, antimicrobial susceptibility, and pathogenic factors of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in canine clinical samples

Research (Published online: 23-04-2021)

24. Occurrence, antimicrobial susceptibility, and pathogenic factors of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in canine clinical samples

Jasmine Hattab, Francesco Mosca, Cristina Esmeralda Di Francesco, Giovanni Aste, Giuseppe Marruchella, Pierluigi Guardiani and Pietro Giorgio Tiscar

Veterinary World, 14(4): 978-985

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a relevant opportunistic and difficult to treat pathogen due to its widespread environmental diffusion, intrinsic resistance to many classes of antimicrobials, high ability to acquire additional resistance mechanisms, and wide range of pathogenic factors. The present study aimed to investigate the prevalence of P. aeruginosa in canine clinical samples, the antimicrobial susceptibility against antipseudomonal antibiotics, and the presence of extracellular pathogenic factors of the isolates, as well as their ability to produce biofilm.

Materials and Methods: Overall, 300 clinical specimens from dogs with pyoderma or abscesses (n=58), otitis (n=59), and suspected bladder infection (n=183) were analyzed by standard bacteriological methods. P. aeruginosa isolates were tested for their antimicrobial susceptibility by disk and gradient diffusion methods to determine the minimum inhibitory concentrations. The ability of the isolates to produce biofilm was investigated by a microtiter plate assay, while virulence genes coding for elastase (lasB), exotoxin A (toxA), alkaline protease (aprA), hemolytic phospholipase C (plcH), and exoenzyme S (ExoS) were detected by polymerase chain reaction method.

Results: A total of 24 isolates of P. aeruginosa were found in clinical specimens (urine n=3, skin/soft tissue n=6, and ear canal n=15). No resistance was found to ceftazidime, gentamicin, aztreonam, and imipenem (IMI), while low levels of resistance were found to enrofloxacin (ENR) (4.2%) and piperacillin-tazobactam (8.3%). However, 41.7% and 29.2% of the isolates showed intermediate susceptibility to ENR and IMI, respectively. Disk and gradient diffusion methods showed high concordance. The majority of the isolates revealed a weak (33.3%) or intermediate (45.8%) ability to form biofilm, while the strong biofilm producers (20.8%) derived exclusively from the ear canal samples. All isolates (100%) were positive for lasB, aprA, and plcH genes, while exoS and toxA were amplified in 21 (87.5%) and 22 (91.7%) isolates, respectively.

Conclusion: In the present study, P. aeruginosa isolates from canine clinical samples were characterized by low levels of antimicrobial resistance against antipseudomonal drugs. However, the high presence of isolates with intermediate susceptibility for some categories of antibiotics, including carbapenems which are not authorized for veterinary use, could represent an early warning signal. Moreover, the presence of isolates with strong ability to produce biofilm represents a challenge for the interpretation of the antimicrobial susceptibility profile. In addition, the high prevalence of the extracellular pathogenic factors was indicative of the potential virulence of the isolates.

Keywords: antimicrobial susceptibility, biofilm, dog infection, extracellular pathogenic factors, Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

Assessment of risk factors associated with prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in poultry of central plain zone of Punjab, India

Research (Published online: 22-04-2021)

23. Assessment of risk factors associated with prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in poultry of central plain zone of Punjab, India

Malkeet Singh, Paramjit Kaur, Lachhman Das Singla, Neeraj Kashyap and Mandeep Singh Bal

Veterinary World, 14(4): 972-977

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Parasitic diseases are an important hurdle to the economy for the developing poultry industry due to their deleterious effects resulting into malnutrition, diminished feed conversion ratio, weight loss, decreased egg production, and mortality in young birds. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence and associated risk factors of gastrointestinal (GIT) parasites in poultry farms of central plain zone of Punjab.

Materials and Methods: A total of 490 pooled droppings and 351 intact intestines of poultry from slaughterhouses from seven districts of central plain zone of Punjab state, India, were collected and analyzed from September 2016 to May 2018 by qualitative and quantitative techniques.

Results: An overall prevalence of GIT parasites was 38.36% with significantly (p<0.01) highest (74.1%) in Ludhiana and lowest (12.0%) in Shri Fatehgarh Sahib. The most predominant (86.2%) infection was coccidia. The birds reared under a deep litter system were having a higher (p<0.01) fecal load of helminthic eggs and coccidian oocysts (54.4%) compared to the cage system (37.5%). Infection rate was apparently more (40%) in broilers than layers (35.7%). Prevalence of GIT parasites was higher (p<0.01) in monsoon season (58.5%) and lower in summer season (24.48%). The broilers in the age group of 0-2 weeks possessed a significant higher (p<0.05) level of GIT parasitic infection (57.5%), while in case of layers, a higher infection rate (46.66%) was observed in birds between 9 and 18 weeks of age as compared in other groups. Higher (p<0.05) infection rate of GIT parasites was seen in crossbred (45.55%) birds as compared to desi birds (20.00%).

Conclusion: The study showed that coccidiosis was the predominant infection among all GIT parasites based on fecal and intestinal tract content analysis. The risk factors associated with the prevalence of GIT parasitic infections were geographical location, deep litter system, broilers, age, crossbred breeds, and monsoon season.

Keywords: central plain zone, gastrointestinal parasites, India, prevalence, poultry, Punjab, risk factors.

Apoptosis-related gene expression induced by Colombian propolis samples in canine osteosarcoma cell line

Research (Published online: 22-04-2021)

22. Apoptosis-related gene expression induced by Colombian propolis samples in canine osteosarcoma cell line

Dolly Patricia Pardo-Mora, Oscar Julián Murillo, Mauricio Rey-Buitrago, Mónica Losada-Barragán, Jaime Fabian Cruz Uribe, Karina Basso Santiago, Bruno José Conti, Eliza de Oliveira Cardoso, Fernanda Lopes Conte, Rafael María Gutiérrez, Orlando Torres García and José Maurício Sforcin

Veterinary World, 14(4): 964-971

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Osteosarcoma (OSA) is the most common bone tumor in canines and humans. This study aimed to assess the cytotoxic and apoptotic effects of Colombian propolis samples on a canine OSA cell line (OSCA-8) by evaluating the expression of BCL-2, BAX, CASPASE 9, CASPASE 8, and TNFR1 genes involved in the apoptosis pathway.

Materials and Methods: After treating the cells with five Colombian propolis samples (Usm, Met, Fus, Sil, and Caj), we evaluated cell viability and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release. Early and late apoptosis was determined by flow cytometry using annexin V/propidium iodide. Furthermore, the effects of three selected samples on gene expression were analyzed by real-time polymerase chain reaction.

Results: The Colombian propolis samples reduced OSCA-8 cell viability and increased LDH release. All samples induced apoptosis significantly and upregulated BCL-2 and CASPASE 8 expression. Usm and Sil increased BAX expression, Met and Sil induced CASPASE 9 expression, and Usm increased TNFR1.

Conclusion: Colombian propolis samples exhibited cytotoxic and apoptotic effects on canine OSA cells, and CASPASE 8 upregulation indicated apoptosis induction by the extrinsic pathway.

Keywords: apoptosis, cytotoxicity, osteosarcoma, propolis.

Qualitative indicators of milk of Simmental and Holstein cows in different seasons of lactation

Research (Published online: 21-04-2021)

21. Qualitative indicators of milk of Simmental and Holstein cows in different seasons of lactation

Aigerim Zhanuzakovna Khastayeva, Venera Serikbayevna Zhamurova, Laura Asilbekovna Mamayeva, Akylzhan Turalievish Kozhabergenov, Nurlybek Zhanybekovich Karimov and Karlygash Muratbekkyzy Muratbekova

Veterinary World, 14(4): 956-963

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Milk producers need to ensure that their cows are producing high-quality, nutritional milk, which is influenced by the breed, age, nutrition, and health status of lactating animals. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of animal breed, season, and milk production on the physicochemical characteristics of milk and predicting the effect of these changes on the composition and quality of milk products.

Materials and Methods: In total, 80 milk samples (40 Simmental and 40 Holstein) were analyzed from LLP "Kirova" of Pavlodar region (Simmental breed) and JSC "Astana-Onim" of Akmola region (Holstein breed) in the Republic of Kazakhstan. The physicochemical parameters, including fatty acid (FA) content, were studied.

Results: The Simmental cows had the lowest mass fraction of fat in the spring at 3.94% and the highest fat content in the winter at 4.09%, which was the overall highest fat content measured in both breeds (?<0.001). The lowest protein in the Simmentals was also measured in the spring. The Holstein cows had the highest fat content at 3.8% and the highest protein content at 3.3% in autumn.

Conclusion: It was found that the season and breed significantly affected the physicochemical parameters and the FA contents in cow milk. The superiority of the Simmental cows over the Holstein cows throughout the year was statistically significant.

Keywords: cow's milk, fatty acid composition, Holstein, season, Simmental breed.

Epidemiological surveillance of H9N2 avian influenza virus infection among chickens in farms and backyards in Egypt 2015-2016

Research (Published online: 20-04-2021)

20. Epidemiological surveillance of H9N2 avian influenza virus infection among chickens in farms and backyards in Egypt 2015-2016

Moataz Mohamed El-Sayed, Abdel Satar Arafa, Marwa Abdelmagid and Ahmed Ibrahim Youssef

Veterinary World, 14(4): 949-955

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: LPAI H9N2 infection among the poultry population in Egypt constitutes an additional risk factor in the poultry industry. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of H9N2 avian influenza virus (AIV) in commercial and backyard chickens in Egypt. A 2-year survey of H9N2 AIV in chickens in farms and backyards was carried out in 2015 and 2016.

Materials and Methods: Direct detection of H9N2 AIV was performed by detecting the virus in tracheal and cloacal swabs using real-time polymerase chain reaction assays. A total of 20,421 samples were collected from chickens in farms and backyards in 26 Egyptian governorates.

Results: In 2015, cases positive for H9N2 AIV numbered 388 (3.9%) out of 10,016 examined cases. However, in 2016, the total positive cases numbered 447 (4.3%) out of 10,405 examined cases. The prevalence of H9N2 AIV among chickens on commercial farms was 4.6% out of the 16,666 chickens examined. The rates of positive cases in 2015 and 2016 were 4.4% (349/7884) and 4.7% (417/8782), respectively. The prevalence of H9N2 AIV in backyard chickens was 1.8% (69/3755). The rates of positive cases in backyard chickens were 1.8% (39/2132) in 2015 and again 1.8% (30/1623) in 2016. The highest positivity rate of H9N2 in chicken farms was in Beni-Suef (61.5%) (8/13), whereas the highest positivity rate in backyard chickens was in Fayoum (8.2%) (8/97).

Conclusion: The analysis of H9N2 infections among chicken farms and in backyard chickens in the different governorates of Egypt over 2 years indicated widespread infection throughout the country. Thus, continuous surveillance and implementation of control programs are warranted.

Keywords: Egypt, H9N2 avian influenza virus, influenza, surveillance.

Detection and genetic characterization of "Candidatus Mycoplasma haemomacaque" infection among long-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis) in Thailand using broad-range nested polymerase chain reaction assay

Research (Published online: 19-04-2021)

19. Detection and genetic characterization of "Candidatus Mycoplasma haemomacaque" infection among long-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis) in Thailand using broad-range nested polymerase chain reaction assay

Wanat Sricharern, Supakarn Kaewchot, Sarawan Kaewmongkol, Natnaree Inthong, Thitichai Jarudecha, Rucksak Rucksaken, Bandid Mangkit, Sakulchit Wichianchot and Tawin Inpankaew

Veterinary World, 14(4): 943-948

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Hemoplasmas are defined as small, epicellular parasitic bacteria that can infect the red blood cells of several mammalian species. Diseases caused by these bacteria range from asymptomatic infections to acute hemolytic anemia. However, data on hemoplasmas in non-human primates in Thailand remain to be limited. Therefore, this study aims to determine the occurrence and genetic diversity of hemoplasmas among long-tailed macaques in Thailand.

Materials and Methods: Blood samples were collected from 339 long-tailed macaques in three provinces of Thailand. DNA was then extracted from the blood samples and tested for hemoplasma using broad-range nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) based on the 16S rRNA gene. PCR-positive samples were sequenced, and phylogenetic analysis for species identification was conducted.

Results: In total, 38 (11.2%) out of the 339 samples were found to be positive for hemoplasmas, based on the broad-range nested PCR assay of the 16S rRNA gene. The 16S rRNA sequences of Mycoplasma spp. were highly similar (98-99% identity) to "Candidatus Mycoplasma haemomacaque." Furthermore, phylogenetic analysis using maximum likelihood demonstrated that the sequences were located in the same cluster of "Ca. M. haemomacaque."

Conclusion: The detection of hemoplasmas among long-tailed macaques in Thailand is reported. Genetic characterization confirmed that these hemoplasmas are closely related to "Ca. M. haemomacaque." These results indicate that long-tailed macaques in several locations in Thailand may be infected and serve as reservoirs for this parasite.

Keywords: broad-range nested polymerase chain reaction, hemoplasma, long-tailed macaque, mycoplasma, Thailand.

Knowledge, attitude, and practice about rabies prevention and control: A community survey in Nepal

Research (Published online: 17-04-2021)

18. Knowledge, attitude, and practice about rabies prevention and control: A community survey in Nepal

Pushkar Pal, Adisorn Yawongsa, Tej Narayan Bhusal, Rajendra Bashyal and Theera Rukkwamsuk

Veterinary World, 14(4): 933-942

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Rabies is a fatal zoonosis caused by RNA virus belonging to genus Lyssavirus. Nepal is one of the endemic countries in South Asia for rabies. This study was conducted to better understand the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of Nepalese community toward rabies across five developmental zones of the country.

Materials and Methods: The cross-sectional study was carried out by face-to-face interview using structured questionnaires among 5000 respondents of five cities representing each of the five developmental regions of Nepal by adopting random cluster sampling procedure. The respondents were classified into four categories, including gender, age, education, and social status. The responses for KAP variables were analyzed using descriptive and Chi-square test.

Results: The male and younger age respondents with higher education and social status were found more knowledgeable than their counterparts in terms of knowledge variables, including cause of rabies, mode of transmission, clinical signs, treatment, and preventive measures of this fatal disease. Similar findings were observed for attitude and practice variables such as vaccination practice, dog sterilization, health-seeking behavior, first aid practice, and use of first aid materials after dog bites. Some respondents in elderly age group still preferred to use traditional and local methods, which were application of turmeric powder and shrubs to cure dog bites rather than seeking medical facilities.

Conclusion: There is a strong need for rabies awareness programs in the community targeting females, school, and college-level students, older age groups, and economically marginalized communities. The awareness materials need to focus on particular topics such as the risk of rabies, modes of transmission, the importance of first aid, health-seeking behavior following dog bite injuries, and practice preventive measures for their pets and community dogs.

Keywords: communities, developmental zones, knowledge, attitude and practice survey, Nepal, rabies.

Isolation and identification of peste des petits ruminants virus from goats in Egyptian governorates

Research (Published online: 17-04-2021)

17. Isolation and identification of peste des petits ruminants virus from goats in Egyptian governorates

Sahar Ahmed, Wafaa Abd El Wahab Hosny, Mervat Mahmoud and Mohammed Abd El-Fatah Mahmoud

Veterinary World, 14(4): 926-932

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: The peste des petits ruminants (PPR) is a highly contagious disease of small ruminants which negatively affects animal production and the socioeconomic status of farmers. Peste des petits ruminants virus (PPRV) encodes eight proteins, with the viral fusion protein (F) playing a role in virus virulence and stimulating an effective protective immune response. This study aimed to isolate and complete the identification of PPRV circulating in goats in different Egyptian governorates and perform molecular characterization of the PPRV F gene.

Materials and Methods: Samples were collected from unvaccinated animals with clinical signs suggestive of PPR. A total of 256 sera were tested for the detection of PPRV antibodies using a competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (c-ELISA) kit, while 214 samples of blood buffy coat preparation, animal swabs (nasal, ocular, and saliva), and fecal and tissue samples were tested for the detection of the PPRV antigen using an antigen-capture ELISA kit. Molecular diagnosis, gene cloning, blast analysis, and phylogenetic analysis were performed for the molecular characterization of PPRV.

Results: The seroprevalence results of PPRV antibodies in the tested sera showed a total of 67.9% positive samples. The rates of PPR antigen recorded by the antigen-capture ELISA in the swabs (nasal and ocular) and tissue samples were 44.3%, 46.8%, and 43.5%, respectively, with saliva swabs having the highest rate of PPRV positivity (76.4%) and fecal samples having the lowest (33.3%). Molecular characterization of the PPRV Vero cell culture revealed that the circulating PPRV strain belongs to the IV lineage. Blast analysis of the PPRV F gene showed 96.7% identity with the PPRV strain Egypt-2014 fusion protein (F) gene, KT006589.1, differing by 43 single-nucleotide polymorphisms.

Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that the emerging PPRV belongs to the IV lineage among small ruminant animals. The findings also indicate the need for an innovative strategy to control and eliminate this disease based on a regularly administered and effective vaccine, a test to distinguish between infected and vaccinated animals, and the need for further study on the protein structure and PPRV F gene expression, which should help us to understand the molecular evolution of the virus and control and eliminate PPR disease.

Keywords: molecular virology, peste des petits ruminants, serological study, small ruminants.