Sensitivity of RNA viral nucleic acid-based detection of avian influenza virus, Newcastle disease virus, and African horse sickness virus on flinders technology associates card using conventional reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction

Research (Published online: 30-11-2022)

28. Sensitivity of RNA viral nucleic acid-based detection of avian influenza virus, Newcastle disease virus, and African horse sickness virus on flinders technology associates card using conventional reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction

Khate Rattanamas, Machimaporn Taesuji, Usakorn Kulthonggate, Tippawan Jantafong, Thanongsak Mamom, and Sakchai Ruenphet

Veterinary World, 15(11): 2754-2759

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: The flinders technology associates (FTA) card is a cotton-based cellulose membrane impregnated with a chaotropic agent that inactivates infectious microorganisms, lyses cellular material, and fixes DNA and/or RNA within the fiber matrix. However, little is known about the effectiveness of these cards for detecting RNA viruses in animals. This study aimed to evaluate the sensitivity of RNA virus detection using conventional reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) on FTA cards.

Materials and Methods: A highly virulent Newcastle disease virus (NDV) and an avian influenza virus (AIV) with low pathogenicity were propagated using chicken embryonic eggs. Three days after inoculation, the allantoic fluid was harvested, stored at –80°C, and the stock virus was tested for virus titration. African horse sickness virus (AHSV) was obtained from a live attenuated vaccine that was dissolved and stored at –80°C. For sample preparation, each stock virus was 10-fold serially diluted and each dilution was inoculated onto an FTA card, followed by drying in a Class II safety cabinet. Both the stock virus and infected FTA card were genomically isolated using an extraction kit, FTA purification kit, and extraction kit with Tris-EDTA (TE) buffer. The target genome was then detected by one-step RT-PCR for NDV and AIV, and two-step RT-PCR for African horse sickness, including gel electrophoresis for the detection of specific nucleic acids.

Results: The detection limit of stock AIV was compared on FTA cards, using the FTA purification kit, and with TE buffer with an extraction kit. The corresponding results were 1.47, 1.17, and 2.18 log10 EID50, respectively, while for NDV the results were 4.13, 4.83, and 4.84 log10 ELD50. Finally, detection limit of stock AHSV and AHSV on the FTA card extracted using TE buffer with an extraction kit were 4.30 and 4.01 log10 plaque-forming units, respectively.

Conclusion: This study demonstrated that the detection limit or sensitivity of all tested RNA viruses on FTA cards did not differ when compared with those of the stock virus and in both methods for RNA isolation on FTA cards. These cards are suitable for collecting and transporting samples infected with RNA viruses, particularly AIV, NDV, and AHSV. Flinders technology associates cards also provide hazard-free samples, a reliable source of RNA for molecular characterization, and sufficient quantity for diagnostic applications based on nucleic acid-based detection.

Keywords: African horse sickness virus, avian influenza virus, flinders technology associates card, Newcastle disease virus, sensitivity.

Zoonotic diseases risk perception and infection prevention and control practices among poultry farmers in the Buea Health District, Cameroon: A one health perspective

Research (Published online: 30-11-2022)

27. Zoonotic diseases risk perception and infection prevention and control practices among poultry farmers in the Buea Health District, Cameroon: A one health perspective

Marie Ebob Agbortabot Bissong, Johnny Castro Nganjo Lyombe, Emmanuel Asongalem, Robert Bongji Ngamsha, and Nicholas Tendongfor

Veterinary World, 15(11): 2744-2753

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Livestock are associated with pathogenic microbes and farm workers play a significant role in the transmission of zoonotic diseases (ZDs). Lack of awareness of exposure risk among farmers may influence their farm practices thereby enhancing the spread of diseases on farms and to the community. This study was aimed at evaluating the knowledge, risk perception, and prevention and control practices of ZDs among poultry farmers to provide baseline data for establishing a "One Health" practical approach to reducing ZD transmission in poultry farms.

Materials and Methods: Using the exponential discriminative snowball technique, a community-based cross-sectional study involving poultry farmers was carried out in the Buea Health District from April to July 2021. Six feed-producing mills were used as focal points to identify and recruit farmers who also referred to other farmers. Questionnaires were used to collect data related to participants' knowledge, risk perception, and prevention and control practices of ZDs. Descriptive analyses were performed for all variables while the chi-square test and logistic regression analysis were used to determine associations at 95% confidence level.

Results: In all, 183 poultry farms and 207 workers were enrolled in the study. Despite being aware that animal diseases can be transmitted to humans, most participants showed poor knowledge (54.6%), low-risk perception (51.7%), and poor prevention/control practices (54.1%) on ZDs. The majority did not consider coming in contact with birds' body fluid (blood) or apparently healthy birds to be a risk of infection. More participants with small farms (<500 birds) had low-risk perception of ZDs than those with larger farms (>1000 birds) (p = 0.03). Furthermore, most participants reported practicing hand washing but they neither used protective devices such as gloves and face masks, and >50% would not invite veterinary professionals to their farms. There was a significant association between risk perception and knowledge (p = 0.007; CI = 1.257–4.200) as well as between risk perception and prevention/control practice (p = 0.002; CI = 1.451–4.867).

Conclusion: Poultry farm workers in Buea had poor knowledge and perception of ZD risk and this might have contributed to their poor prevention/control practices on the farms. Enhanced informal education of poultry farmers through training workshops and seminars will improve their knowledge and skills on ZD transmission risk and prevention.

Keywords: Cameroon, control practices, knowledge, poultry farmers, risk perception, Zoonotic diseases.

Association of natural resistance-associated macrophage protein 1 polymorphisms with Salmonella fecal shedding and hematological traits in pigs

Research (Published online: 29-11-2022)

26. Association of natural resistance-associated macrophage protein 1 polymorphisms with Salmonella fecal shedding and hematological traits in pigs

Nattariga Suwannawong, Uschara Thumarat, and Pitchayanipa Phongphanich

Veterinary World, 15(11): 2738-2743

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Natural resistance-associated macrophage protein 1 encoding gene (Nramp1) plays a role in immune response and disease resistance. This study aimed to investigate the polymorphisms of Nramp1 intron 6 concerning Salmonella shedding and hematological traits in pigs.

Materials and Methods: A total of 40 commercial pigs (three-way Large White x Landrace x Duroc cross) were genotyped using the polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method and analyze the relationship between the polymorphisms of the Nramp1 gene and Salmonella fecal shedding and hematological parameters.

Results: Nramp1 was shown to be polymorphic in these pigs. The Nramp1 gene has two alleles (A and B) and two genotypes (AB and BB). The BB genotype had a higher frequency than the AB genotype. A significant relationship between the BB genotype and the number of Salmonella in feces compared to the AB genotype (p < 0.05) on 7 days post-inoculation (DPI) was revealed in the association analysis. The single-nucleotide polymorphism at intron 6 in the Nramp1 gene was linked to white and red blood cells 2 and 7 DPI (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: The Nramp1 gene was suggested by these findings to be potentially used as a molecular marker for the genetic selection of disease susceptibility in pig breeding.

Keywords: hematological trait, Nramp1, Salmonella shedding pig.

In vitro phytochemical analysis and antibacterial and antifungal efficacy assessment of ethanolic and aqueous extracts of Rumex nervosus leaves against selected bacteria and fungi

Research (Published online: 29-11-2022)

25. In vitro phytochemical analysis and antibacterial and antifungal efficacy assessment of ethanolic and aqueous extracts of Rumex nervosus leaves against selected bacteria and fungi

Maged A. Al-Garadi, Mohammed M. Qaid, Abdulmohsen H. Alqhtani, Anthony Pokoo-Aikins, and Saud I. Al-Mufarrej

Veterinary World, 15(11): 2725-2737

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Scientists are interested in identifying natural antibiotic substitutes that are effective against drug-resistant pathogenic microbes and spoilage fungi to counter pathogens and reduce the major public health problem of antibiotic residues in animal products. This study aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of Rumex nervosus leaves (RNL) as a medicinal herb against four bacterial and two fungal strains using absolute ethanol, 50% ethanol, and aqueous extracts.

Materials and Methods: The antimicrobial activities of various RNL extracts against selected microbes were evaluated using the disk diffusion antibiotic susceptibility test, minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs), minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBCs), minimum fungicidal concentrations, and the poisoned food technique.

Results: The absolute ethanol RNL extract showed the best bacteriostatic/bactericidal activity against Salmonella Typhimurium, Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus aureus (MIC/MBC: 0.20/0.40, 0.20/0.40, and 0.32/0.65 mg/mL, respectively). The diameter of the zone of inhibition was larger (p < 0.05) for the 100% ethanol RNL extract (8.17 mm) against Salmonella Typhimurium, the 50% ethanol-RNL extract (11.5 mm) against E. coli, and the aqueous RNL extract (14.0 mm) against S. aureus than for any other bacterial isolate. The aqueous RNL extract strongly (p < 0.0001) inhibited the mycelial growth of Aspergillus fumigatus (100%) and Aspergillus niger (81.4%) compared with the control.

Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that RNL is a promising new natural antimicrobial agent for food preservation. To date, most research on the antimicrobial properties of natural herbs has been conducted in vitro, with few exceptions in vivo and intervention-based research.

Keywords: antimicrobial activity, Aspergillus spp., Gram-negative bacteria, Gram-positive bacteria, phytochemicals, Rumex nervosus leaves.

The effects of mulberry (Morus alba Linn.) leaf supplementation on growth performance, blood parameter, and antioxidant status of broiler chickens under high stocking density

Research (Published online: 28-11-2022)

24. The effects of mulberry (Morus alba Linn.) leaf supplementation on growth performance, blood parameter, and antioxidant status of broiler chickens under high stocking density

Charinya So-In and Nuchsupha Sunthamala

Veterinary World, 15(11): 2715-2724

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: A stocking density system in boilers is well known for increasing productivity. However, this system increases stress and affects the growth performance of broilers. Mulberry is a valuable plant with therapeutic applications in traditional medicine; moreover, it reduces free radicals and improves growth performance in broilers. This study was conducted to investigate the effects of mulberry on the blood biochemistry parameters and the antioxidant status of broilers exposed to various raising systems.

Materials and Methods: Two hundred and seventy-six 3-week-old male broilers were randomly assigned to nine categories composed of three growing systems: Semi-intensive, low stocking density, and high stocking density. Each group was fed with a control diet mixed with and without 10% mulberry leaf extract; the positive control group was provided with vitamin C. During the study, phytochemical screening of mulberry leaf extract, growth performances, hematological parameters, and antioxidant profiles were measured over the 4 weeks of the treatment.

Results: In the high stocking density group, lipid peroxidation gradually increased while antioxidant activities decreased; however, the level of lipid peroxidation was reduced, whereas catalase and superoxide dismutase activities were significantly increased. The growth performance and blood biochemistry were improved after being fed with 10% mulberry leaf extract.

Conclusion: This finding indicates that mulberry leaf extract reduced oxidative stress, activated antioxidant enzyme activities, and enhanced broilers' growth performance when raised under stress conditions.

Keywords: antioxidant, broiler chickens, growth performance, high stocking density, Morus alba, mulberry leaf.

Meta-analysis of the potential of Kazakhstani pork in the global market of meat products: Problems and prospects

Research (Published online: 28-11-2022)

23. Meta-analysis of the potential of Kazakhstani pork in the global market of meat products: Problems and prospects

Gulmira Karimzhanovna Dambaulova, Svetlana Ivanovna Lilimberg, Vladimir Anatoliyevich Madin, and Gainesh Turemuratovna Abdrakhmanova

Veterinary World, 15(11): 2705-2714

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Pig farming is integral in developing Kazakhstan's animal husbandry as it has shown rapid growth in profit and a high turnover. Industrial pig products have significant global demand, particularly in China and Russia. However, as pig farming is a small-scale industry with insufficient mechanization and automation in Kazakhstan, the costs have increased while the quality of Kazakhstani pig products has decreased due to the simultaneous influx of cheap imported pork into the domestic market. This study aimed to analyze the export potential of the swine industry in the Republic of Kazakhstan and assess its impact on the global pork market.

Materials and Methods: A meta-analysis of open sources was conducted for the period 1990–2020, while forecasting was extended to 2025. Statistical methods for the analysis (construction of time series with equal intervals, calculation, interpretation of average values, and growth rates) were used. Pearson correlation analysis was performed to study the dependence of the productivity of pigs on the category of the pig farming enterprise to establish the relationship between the average live weight of one head of pigs and the share of pigs in agricultural enterprises in the total number of pigs. The polynomial smoothing method was used, and a trend line was built, forecasting the number of pigs in Kazakhstan, the production and sale of pig products, along with their cost and profitability.

Results: This study briefly characterizes the developing situation of the global pork market. We identified and evaluated the development trends in Kazakh pig farming in terms of their impact on the industry's export potential. Specifically, we determined the following trends: An increase in the actual and projected number of pigs; a decrease in the natural loss of pigs during 2014–2020; the growth of existing and forecast indicators of pork sales in the domestic market; a steady decrease in the share of pigs in small households and an increase in the share of pigs in peasant farms and agricultural enterprises; an increase in the dynamics of the productivity of the pig population; and the growth of actual and predicted profitability of production and sale of pig products. We discussed the main problems that hinder the entry of Kazakhstani pork into the global market: Small-scale farming, insufficient mechanization and automation, and inadequate financial support from the state and banking structures. First, small-scale farming (deduced from the number of pigs by the farm categories) has hampered the small farms' independent manufacture and use of feed grain (i.e., barley, which is abundant in Kazakhstan), which might reduce costs. Moreover, small-scale farms struggle to comply with the waste disposal rules for pig production and environmental safety norms, which limit the export potential of Kazakhstani pork. Second, insufficient mechanization and automation in feeding and breeding (i.e., use of resource-saving technologies) result in inadequate productivity, decreased competitiveness, and failure to meet global standards. Third, insufficient financial support in the form of grants allocated to purposes other than selection and breeding limits the overall development of Kazakhstani pig farming.

Conclusion: The positive dynamics of the main development indicators of Kazakhstani pig farming efficiently assess the industry's export potential, according to the country's leading academic specialists and practitioners in the agricultural sector, especially in light of the difficult epizootic situation. This provides abundant opportunities for export supplies in the global meat market. These indicators include the number of pigs, its natural decline, and structure by farm categories. They also include the production, sale, and profitability of production of pig products and the productivity of pigs. As China and Russia currently have a massive shortage of this product in the domestic markets, they are potential importers of Kazakh pork.

Keywords: livestock size, pig farming, pig productivity, pig products, pork export, the profitability of pig farming.

Occurrence of antimicrobial resistance and antimicrobial resistance genes in methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus isolated from healthy rabbits

Research (Published online: 27-11-2022)

22. Occurrence of antimicrobial resistance and antimicrobial resistance genes in methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus isolated from healthy rabbits

Arunee Jangsangthong, Nawarat Suriyakhun, Witawat Tunyong, Thida Kong-Ngoen, Sirijan Santajit, Nitaya Indrawattana, and Shutipen Buranasinsup

Veterinary World, 15(11): 2699-2704

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Methicillin-resistant globally, Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a major cause of disease in both humans and animals. Several studies have documented the presence of MRSA in healthy and infected animals. However, there is less information on MRSA occurrence in exotic pets, especially healthy rabbits. This study aimed to look into the antimicrobial resistance profile, hidden antimicrobial-resistant genes in isolated bacteria, and to estimate prevalence of MRSA in healthy rabbits.

Materials and Methods: Two-hundreds and eighteen samples, including 42 eyes, 44 ears, 44 oral, 44 ventral thoracic, and 44 perineal swabs, were taken from 44 healthy rabbits that visited the Prasu-Arthorn Animal Hospital, in Nakornpathom, Thailand, from January 2015 to March 2016. The traditional methods of Gram stain, mannitol fermentation, hemolysis on blood agar, catalase test, and coagulase production were used to confirm the presence of Staphylococcus aureus in all specimens. All bacterial isolates were determined by antimicrobial susceptibility test by the disk diffusion method. The polymerase chain reaction was used to identify the antimicrobial-resistant genes (blaZ, mecA, aacA-aphD, msrA, tetK, gyrA, grlA, and dfrG) in isolates of MRSA with a cefoxitin-resistant phenotype.

Results: From 218 specimens, 185 S. aureus were isolated, with the majority of these being found in the oral cavity (29.73%) and ventral thoracic area (22.7%), respectively. Forty-seven (25.41%) MRSAs were found in S. aureus isolates, with the majority of these being found in the perineum (16, 34.04%) and ventral thoracic area (13, 27.66%) specimens. Among MRSAs, 29 (61.7%) isolates were multidrug-resistant (MDR) strains. Most of MRSA isolates were resistant to penicillin (100%), followed by ceftriaxone (44.68%) and azithromycin (44.68%). In addition, these bacteria contained the most drug-resistance genes, blaZ (47.83%), followed by gyrA (36.17%) and tetK (23.4%).

Conclusion: This study revealed that MRSA could be found even in healthy rabbits. Some MRSAs strains were MDR–MRSA, which means that when an infection occurs, the available antibiotics were not effective in treating it. To prevent the spread of MDR–MRSA from pets to owners, it may be helpful to educate owners about effective prevention and hygiene measures.

Keywords: antimicrobial resistance, antimicrobial-resistant genes, healthy rabbits, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.

Investigation of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus, and Staphylococcus argenteus from wild long-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis) at Kosumpee Forest Park, Maha Sarakham, Thailand

Research (Published online: 26-11-2022)

21. Investigation of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus, and Staphylococcus argenteus from wild long-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis) at Kosumpee Forest Park, Maha Sarakham, Thailand

Natapol Pumipuntu, Thanyaphorn Chamnandee, Kittisak Saengthong, Suvit Pathomthanasarn, Tawatchai Tanee, Pensri Kyes, Penkhae Thamsenanupap, Apichat Karaket, Marilyn C. Roberts, and Randall C. Kyes

Veterinary World, 15(11): 2693-2698

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: In the past, the prevalence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections in both humans and animals has increased across Thailand. Staphylococcus argenteus has been associated with infections among humans, exotic pets, and livestock. Both species have been identified in non-human primate species from geographically diverse locations but not from non-human primates in Thailand. This study aimed to determine the presence of MRSA/ methicillin-susceptible S. aureus (MSSA) and S. argenteus isolates collected from buccal swab samples in Macaca fascicularis at Kosumpee Forest Park (KFP), Maha Sarakham, Northeast Thailand.

Materials and Methods: Aseptic buccal swab samples were collected from 30 free-ranging macaques in November 2018. All isolates were tested using multiple biochemical tests and S. aureus latex slide agglutination test. Presumptive S. aureus isolates were tested for the presence of the mecA gene using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays. The isolates were phenotypically determined to be resistant to a β-lactam antibiotic using the disk diffusion method with a 30 μg cefoxitin disk. The isolates were analyzed by PCR for the non-ribosomal peptide synthetase (NRPS) gene to distinguish S. argenteus from S. aureus.

Results: Fifteen macaques (50%) were colonized with S. aureus and 21 isolates were characterized. Three of the macaques carried both the MRSA and MSSA isolate. One animal carried both MRSA and S. argenteus isolate, and one animal carried only S. argenteus. The NRPS gene analysis confirmed that 2 isolates (9.52%) were S. argenteus and 19 isolates (90.48%) were S. aureus [five MSSA and 14 MRSA].

Conclusion: This study is the first to identify MRSA/MSSA and S. argenteus in wild free-ranging M. fascicularis from Thailand at the KFP in Maha Sarakham. This study is also the first report on the occurrence of S. argenteus carriage in M. fascicularis from Thailand.

Keywords: Macaca fascicularis, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus, non-ribosomal peptide synthetase gene, Staphylococcus argenteus.

Efficacy, humoral, and cell-mediated immune response of inactivated fowl adenovirus 8b propagated in chicken embryo liver cells using bioreactor in broiler chickens

Research (Published online: 26-11-2022)

20. Efficacy, humoral, and cell-mediated immune response of inactivated fowl adenovirus 8b propagated in chicken embryo liver cells using bioreactor in broiler chickens

Chidozie Clifford Ugwu, Mohd Hair-Bejo, Mat Isa Nurulfiza, Abdul Rahman Omar, and Aini Ideris

Veterinary World, 15(11): 2681-2692

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Fowl adenovirus (FAdV) 8b causes inclusion body hepatitis, resulting in major economic losses globally among chickens. The objectives were to inactivate FAdV 8b isolate propagated in chicken embryo liver (CEL) cells using a stirred tank bioreactor (UPM08136P5B1) and determine the humoral and cell-mediated immune response, efficacy, and virus shedding in broiler chickens.

Materials and Methods: The FAdV 8b isolate UPM08136P5B1 was inactivated using binary ethyleneimine, adjuvanted with Montanide 71VG, inoculated into day-old broiler chickens in a booster group (BG) and non-booster group (NBG), and challenged with a pathogenic FAdV 8b strain. Clinical signs, gross lesions, body weight (BW), liver: body weight ratio, FAdV antibody titer using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and histopathological changes were recorded. The CD3+, CD4+, and CD8+ T-lymphocyte profiles of the liver, spleen, and thymus using flow cytometry, and viral load in liver and cloacal shedding using quantitative polymerase chain reaction were evaluated.

Results: Chickens in the challenged control group (CCG) exhibited mild clinical signs, gross lesions, and histopathological changes, which were absent in the inoculated groups, and had lower BW and higher liver BW ratio than chickens in the unchallenged control group (UCG); BG and NBG on 35- and 42-days post-inoculation (DPI). Chickens in NBG and BG had higher antibodies than UCG on 7, 21, 35, and 42 DPI. The challenged BG and NBG produced higher antibodies than the CCG on 35 DPI. T-lymphocytes were higher among the inoculated groups than UCG in the liver, spleen, and thymus. Inoculated challenged groups recorded higher CD3+, CD4+, and CD8+ T-lymphocytes on 35 and 42 DPI than CCG. The challenged control group had a significantly higher viral load in the liver than challenged that in BG on 35 DPI and BG and NBG on 42 DPI. The challenged control group had significantly higher challenge FAdV shedding than challenged inoculated groups on 35 and NBG on 42 DPI.

Conclusion: UPM08136P5B1 was successfully inactivated and mixed with Montanide 71VG. The inactivated vaccine candidate that induced humoral and cellular immunity was effective, reduced FAdV load in the liver, and shedding in the cloaca, and could be useful against FAdV 8b infections in chickens.

Keywords: bioreactor, broiler chickens, efficacy, fowl adenovirus serotype 8b, humoral and cell-mediated immunity.

A review of some medicinal plants with the potential to defeat antimicrobial resistance: Cases of Benin, Togo, Ghana, Burkina Faso, and Cape Verde

Review (Published online: 25-11-2022)

6. A review of some medicinal plants with the potential to defeat antimicrobial resistance: Cases of Benin, Togo, Ghana, Burkina Faso, and Cape Verde

Victorien Dougnon, Boris Brice Legba, Bertin Gbaguidi, Eric Agbodjento, Alidehou Jerrold Agbankpe, Diara Rocha, Irene Ayi, Simon Azonbakin, Aboudoulatif Diallo, Isidore Juste Bonkoungou, Jean Robert Klotoe, Clément Agbangla, and Guy Alain Alitonou

International Journal of One Health, 8(2): 124-160

ABSTRACT

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global public health problem. In the alternatives being explored for developing new antimicrobials, medicinal plants occupy an important place, particularly in Africa, where they are widely used. This review aims to analyze the potential of medicinal plants from Benin, Togo, Ghana, Burkina-Faso, and Cape Verde in the fight against AMR. A bibliographic search was conducted to explore scientific databases such as PubMed and Google Scholar. During this search, particular attention was given to epidemiological data related to AMR in these countries, medicinal plants traditionally used to treat microbial infections and medicinal plants that have been shown to be active on multidrug-resistant microbial strains. In total, 94 manuscripts were investigated. Epidemiological data showed that the problem of AMR is worsening in each target country. In addition, several medicinal plants have been demonstrated to be effective against microbial strains resistant to conventional antibiotics. A total of 532 medicinal plants were identified according to their ethnomedical uses for the treatment of microbial infections. Scientific evidence was collected on the antimicrobial potential of 91 plants. This study showed the potential of medicinal plants in the fight against AMR. Their documented traditional use, coupled with the evidence of efficacy provided, make them interesting sources for developing new antimicrobials.

Keywords: Africa, antimicrobial, drug resistance, medicinal plants.

Characterizing the antimicrobial resistance profile of Escherichia coli found in sport animals (fighting cocks, fighting bulls, and sport horses) and soils from their environment

Research (Published online: 25-11-2022)

19. Characterizing the antimicrobial resistance profile of Escherichia coli found in sport animals (fighting cocks, fighting bulls, and sport horses) and soils from their environment

Tuempong Wongtawan, Ruethai Narinthorn, Narin Sontigun, Chalutwan Sansamur, Yotsapat Petcharat, Punpichaya Fungwithaya, Phirabhat Saengsawang, Patrick J. Blackall, and Thotsapol Thomrongsuwannakij

Veterinary World, 15(11): 2673-2680

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a significant threat to global health and development. Inappropriate antimicrobial drug use in animals cause AMR, and most studies focus on livestock because of the widespread use of antimicrobial medicines. There is a lack of studies on sports animals and AMR issues. This study aimed to characterize the AMR profile of E. coli found in sports animals (fighting cocks, fighting bulls, and sport horses) and soils from their environment.

Materials and Methods: Bacterial isolation and identification were conducted to identify E. coli isolates recovered from fresh feces that were obtained from fighting cocks (n = 32), fighting bulls (n = 57), sport horses (n = 33), and soils from those farms (n = 32) at Nakhon Si Thammarat. Antimicrobial resistance was determined using 15 tested antimicrobial agents - ampicillin (AM), amoxicillin-clavulanic acid, cephalexin (CN), cefalotin (CF), cefoperazone, ceftiofur, cefquinome, gentamicin, neomycin, flumequine (UB), enrofloxacin, marbofloaxacin, polymyxin B, tetracycline (TE), and sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim (SXT). The virulence genes, AMR genes, and phylogenetic groups were also examined. Five virulence genes, iroN, ompT, hlyF, iss, and iutA, are genes determining the phylogenetic groups, chuA, cjaA, and tspE4C2, were identified. The AMR genes selected for detection were blaTEM and blaSHV for the beta-lactamase group; cml-A for phenicol; dhfrV for trimethoprim; sul1 and sul2 for sulfonamides; tetA, tetB, and tetC for TEs; and qnrA, qnrB, and qnrS for quinolones.

Results: The E. coli derived from sports animals were resistant at different levels to AM, CF, CN, UB, SXT, and TE. The AMR rate was overall higher in fighting cocks than in other animals, with significantly higher resistance to AM, CF, and TE. The highest AMR was found in fighting cocks, where 62.5% of their isolates were AM resistant. In addition, multidrug resistance was highest in fighting cocks (12.5%). One extended-spectrum beta-lactamase E. coli isolate was found in the soils, but none from animal feces. The phylogenetic analysis showed that most E. coli isolates were in Group B1. The E. coli isolates from fighting cocks had more virulence and AMR genes than other sources. The AMR genes found in 20% or more of the isolates were blaTEM (71.9%), qnrB (25%), qnrS (46.9%), and tetA (56.25%), whereas in the E. coli isolates collected from soils, the only resistance genes found in 20% or more of the isolates were blaTEM (30.8%), and tetA (23.1%).

Conclusion: Escherichia coli from fighting cock feces had significantly higher resistance to AM, CF, and TE than isolates from other sporting animals. Hence, fighting cocks may be a reservoir of resistant E. coli that can transfer to the environment and other animals and humans in direct contact with the birds or the birds' habitat. Programs for antimicrobial monitoring should also target sports animals and their environment.

Keywords: antimicrobial resistance, beta-lactamase, bulls, Escherichia coli, trimethoprim.

Application of multivariate discriminant analysis for differentiation between Saudi sheep (Ovis aries) breeds based on physical and histochemical meat characteristics

Research (Published online: 22-11-2022)

18. Application of multivariate discriminant analysis for differentiation between Saudi sheep (Ovis aries) breeds based on physical and histochemical meat characteristics

Gamaleldin M. Suliman, Raed Mahmoud Al-Atiyat, Khaled H. Abu-Alruz, Amer M. Mamkagh, Firas A. Al-Zyoud, Abdullah N. Al-Owaimer, and Faisal A. Alshamiry

Veterinary World, 15(11): 2665-2672

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: The multivariate discriminant (MVD) analysis was a successful statistical tool with a discriminatory capacity for tracing sheep breeds based on meat characteristics. Thus, this study aimed to identify three Saudi sheep breeds based on the physical and histochemical aspects of meat using MVD analysis.

Materials and Methods: Eight male lambs from each breed, Najdi, Neami, and Harri, were selected randomly at 90 days of age and allocated into three groups for breeding in a completely randomized design. The feeding and rearing management were similar for an experimental period of 90 days. The experimental diet consisted of a concentrated mixture with identical amounts of calories and nitrogen. Fifty-one meat characteristics were measured in the preliminary MVD, representing hot and cold carcass weight, meat cuts and quality measures, body component weights, fat deposit weights, and histochemical characteristics.

Results: Out of the total meat characteristics measured, only 19 characteristics had significant discriminant power. The most powerful characteristics were temperature, empty intestinal weight, pH24, external carcass length, heart weight, and L1, based on partial R-square and Wilks' lambda values. The phenotypic associations between the characteristics had strong associations. The obtained principal components efficiently classified the eight individuals of each breed into distinct groups using robust discriminant characteristics.

Conclusion: This method allowed us to determine the breed of sheep carcasses and cuts by considering the physical characteristics of the meat. Therefore, butchers and consumers should use scientific techniques for assigning carcasses and meat to their sheep breed after slaughtering.

Keywords: discriminant, histochemical, multivariate, sheep meat, traceability.

Preparation and evaluation of a lateral flow immunochromatographic nanogold diagnostic kit for brucellosis in sheep

Research (Published online: 21-11-2022)

17. Preparation and evaluation of a lateral flow immunochromatographic nanogold diagnostic kit for brucellosis in sheep

Zainab Mohammed Aboelqassem, Hazem Mohammed Ibrahim, Rafik Hamed Sayed, Hassan Mohamed Sobhy, and Sahar Hussein Abdalla Hekal

Veterinary World, 15(11): 2658-2664

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Brucellosis is a zoonotic disease with a worldwide distribution. It has a serious impact on the health of humans and animals, along with a negative impact on the economy. This study aimed to prepare and evaluate the diagnostic performance of a lateral flow immunochromatographic test (LFIT) nanogold diagnostic kit for detecting brucellosis in sheep.

Materials and Methods: A rapidly developed LFIT, in which lipopolysaccharide conjugates with nanogold molecules, was placed on the conjugate pad. One hundred ovine serum samples were tested to detect Brucella antibodies (Ab) using the prepared lateral flow immunochromatography assay (LFA) kit and Rose Bengal test. The evaluation of specificity, sensitivity, and accuracy for LFIT and Rose Bengal plate test was conducted using the P04310-10 IDEXX brucellosis ovine/ caprine Ab enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) test (gold standard).

Results: The lower amount of Brucella Ab in the ovine serum samples was detected and was 1.58 S/P ratio ELISA titer/100 μL using LFIT and with Rose Bengal to detect 1.86 S/P ratio ELISA. The results showed that the developed LFIT had high specificity with no cross-reactivity with other tested bacteria. The calculated sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of LFIT and Rose Bengal test using the P04310-10 IDEXX brucellosis ovine/caprine Ab ELISA test (gold standard) were 74% and 89%, 81% and 59%, and 76.9% and 66%, respectively.

Conclusion: The present results showed interesting results implying that the LFIA strip test could be used as a substantial diagnostic tool for field screening ovine Brucella as an essential step in the control of brucellosis. However, further studies for the validation of the present findings are necessary.

Keywords: brucellosis, diagnosis, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, lateral flow assay, lateral flow immunochromatographic test, Rose Bengal plate test.

Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time-of-flight mass spectrometry in veterinary medicine: Recent advances (2019–present)

Review (Published online: 21-11-2022)

16. Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time-of-flight mass spectrometry in veterinary medicine: Recent advances (2019–present)

Jonathan E. Thompson

Veterinary World, 15(11): 2623-2657

ABSTRACT

Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry (MS) has become a valuable laboratory tool for rapid diagnostics, research, and exploration in veterinary medicine. While instrument acquisition costs are high for the technology, cost per sample is very low, the method requires minimal sample preparation, and analysis is easily conducted by end-users requiring minimal training. Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time-of-flight MS has found widespread application for the rapid identification of microorganisms, diagnosis of dermatophytes and parasites, protein/lipid profiling, molecular diagnostics, and the technique demonstrates significant promise for 2D chemical mapping of tissue sections collected postmortem. In this review, an overview of the MALDI-TOF technique will be reported and manuscripts outlining current uses of the technology for veterinary science since 2019 will be summarized. The article concludes by discussing gaps in knowledge and areas of future growth.

Keywords: biotyping, imaging, matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time-of-flight, microorganism identification, proteomics, veterinary diagnostics.

Mortality and culling of adult dairy cows in Jordan: A 3-year study (2016–2018) based on a single intensively managed dairy farm

Research (Published online: 19-11-2022)

15. Mortality and culling of adult dairy cows in Jordan: A 3-year study (2016–2018) based on a single intensively managed dairy farm

Zuhair Bani Ismail and Mohammad Musab Muhaffel

Veterinary World, 15(11): 2617-2622

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Dairy cow mortality and culling are important parameters reflecting on cow health, productivity, and welfare as well as important determinants of herd sustainability, growth, and profitability. There are no published reports on the causes and rates of mortality and culling of dairy cows in Jordan. Therefore, the objectives of this study were to determine the most common causes and rates of mortality and culling of adult dairy cows in Jordan using a single well-managed dairy farm as a model over 3 years.

Materials and Methods: Data extracted from the farm management record software over 3 years (January 2016–December 2018) were used in this study. Cow-specific data included the date and month of sale, death or euthanasia, age, parity, reproductive status, and daily milk yield. Cow health-specific data included physical examination findings, presumptive diagnosis, medical or surgical treatments, postmortem findings, and any available laboratory findings. Descriptive analysis was performed to determine means (± standard deviation) and frequencies of various variables using Excel Spreadsheets of Microsoft Word 10.

Results: The 3-year rolling cow population in the farm used in the study was 500 ± 35. The overall mortality and culling rates were 5.9% and 28.5%, respectively. The mean age of died and culled cows was 3 ± 1.2 and 4 ± 1.5 years, respectively. The mortality rates were highest in the colder months (January through April). The most frequent causes of mortality were infectious diseases (28%), followed by non-infectious gastrointestinal diseases (25%), udder and teat diseases (mastitis 22%), and other diseases/accidents (25%). Of the infectious diseases, the most frequently diagnosed were enterotoxemia (12%), tuberculosis (TB) (8%), enteric salmonellosis (7%), and paratuberculosis (1%). The most frequently diagnosed non-infectious gastrointestinal diseases were traumatic reticulitis (11%), vagal indigestion (9%), and abomasal ulcer (5%). The most frequently diagnosed diseases causing mortality involving other body systems were reproductive diseases (acute puerperal metritis 6%), respiratory diseases (pneumonia 5% and pulmonary embolism 1%), metabolic diseases (fatty liver 3%), musculoskeletal diseases (septic arthritis 3% and downer cow syndrome 4%), neurologic diseases (unspecified causes 2%), and finally accidents (electrocution 1%). The most frequent causes of culling were old age/low milk production (39%), followed by the poor reproductive performance (31%), diseases/accidents (24%), and unidentified causes (6%). The most frequent diseases/accidents causing culling were udder diseases (mastitis 32%), followed by non-infectious gastrointestinal diseases (28%) (vagal indigestion [15%], rumen tympany [7%], and abomasal ulcer [6%]), musculoskeletal diseases (23%) (foot and claw diseases [7%], downer cow syndrome [7%], hip luxation [5%], septic arthritis [2%], and gastrocnemius rupture [2%]), respiratory diseases (pneumonia 10%), and finally infectious diseases (9%) (paratuberculosis [3%], hemorrhagic bowel syndrome [2%], and TB [2%]).

Conclusion: Results of this study showed that the majority of deaths and culling of dairy cows in Jordan are due to infectious diseases followed by non-infectious gastrointestinal diseases and mastitis. More efforts aiming at improving biosecurity standards, nutritional management, and mastitis prevention measures are required to limit the impact of disease on farm economy, animal health and productivity, and animal welfare in Jordan.

Keywords: animal welfare, culling rate, dairy cows, Jordan livestock, mortality rate.

Natural high ambient temperature-induced respiratory hypocapnia without activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis in lactating goats

Research (Published online: 19-11-2022)

14. Natural high ambient temperature-induced respiratory hypocapnia without activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis in lactating goats

Sapon Semsirmboon, Dang Khoa Do Nguyen, Narongsak Chaiyabutr, Sutthasinee Poonyachoti, and Sumpun Thammacharoen

Veterinary World, 15(11): 2611-2616

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Activation of breathing, the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, and plasma antioxidant defense are adaptive mechanisms in lactating dairy goats fed during the summer season. However, an excess of these responses can interfere with the gas exchange. This study aimed to investigate the effect of natural high ambient temperature (HTa) on blood gas parameters and their relation to the HPA axis and antioxidant defense.

Materials and Methods: Six mid-lactating goats were included in this study and were fed in individual pens for 2 weeks. The data on ambient conditions, physiological responses, and blood chemistry were measured for two sampling days (D7 and D14), 1 week apart during the late summer season. On this two-sampling day, the main physiological responses to HTa, including respiration rate (RR), rectal temperature (Tr), blood gas, and blood chemistry, were measured in the morning and afternoon.

Results: Goats from both D7 and D14 increased RR and Tr significantly according to morning and afternoon periods. In addition, goats were at the hypocapnia stage during afternoon panting without a change in blood pH and bicarbonate levels. Interestingly, HTa-induced hypocapnia was not accompanied by an increase in plasma cortisol levels. Finally, ΔTa was negatively correlated with changes in glutathione peroxidase activity.

Conclusion: The natural HTa (ΔTa; 5–8°C) in this study activated evaporative heat dissipation and was high enough to induce respiratory hypocapnia. Importantly, this ΔTa did not activate the HPA axis but was correlated with a change in antioxidant defense. Therefore, under natural HTa in tropical conditions, respiratory hypocapnia is the first line of physiological response in goats within a specific range of natural ΔTa (5–8°C).

Keywords: acid-base imbalance, lactation, Saanen goat, thermal panting, tropical climate.

Comparative study of electrocardiographic parameters in calves born after eutocia versus dystocia

Research (Published online: 18-11-2022)

13. Comparative study of electrocardiographic parameters in calves born after eutocia versus dystocia

Julia Nowak, Jessica Joerling, Marlene Sickinger, and Axel Wehrend

Veterinary World, 15(11): 2603-2610

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: The mortality rate of perinatal calves is high, particularly in dystocia cases. Besides detectable conditions such as trauma or amniotic fluid aspiration, the potential salience of cardiological diseases in neonatal bovine deaths has received little attention. This study aimed to compare the electrocardiographic parameters of calves born under conditions of dystocia and eutocia.

Materials and Methods: Electrocardiographic, clinical, and laboratory diagnostic examinations were performed during the first 5 days of life on 40 calves. Of them, 20 calves were born under conditions of dystocia and 20 of eutocia.

Results: Electrocardiograms (ECGs) did not show detectable arrhythmias in all calves. Both groups exhibited tachycardia on their first ECGs. The QT and ST interval durations developed differently over time in both groups, suggesting that these may be related to conditions of birth.

Conclusion: The electrocardiographic differences between calves born of dystocia and eutocia could be a factor in the increased mortality rate of calves born of dystocia.

Keywords: birth, bovine, electrocardiogram, neonate.