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.

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.

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.

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).

Prediction of daily milk production from the linear body and udder morphometry in Holstein Friesian dairy cows

Research (Published online: 13-03-2020)

12. Prediction of daily milk production from the linear body and udder morphometry in Holstein Friesian dairy cows

Soeharsono Soeharsono, Sri Mulyati, Suzanita Utama, Wurlina Wurlina, Pudji Srianto, Tjuk Imam Restiadi and Imam Mustofa

Veterinary World, 13(3): 471-477

ABSTRACT

Aim: This study aimed to develop equations to predict daily milk production (DMP) based on linear body and udder morphometry of Holstein Friesian (HF) dairy cows.

Materials and Methods: The experiment was conducted on 174 lactating HF dairy cows reared by farmers at different locations under similar conditions. The age, parity, and body condition score of experimental animals were limited to 0.25 of the standard deviation value above or below the average. The average DMP was based on farmers' records. Morphometry components, i.e., body length (BL); chest circumference (CC); front udder height (FUH), rear udder height (RUH); and udder circumference (UC) were directly measured using a tape; meanwhile, body weight (BW) was estimated using the Indonesia Winter formula. The relationship variables of morphometry components (body and udder morphometry) and BW on DMP were analyzed by regression.

Results: The result showed no correlation (p>0.05) between CC and BW on DMP. Meanwhile, DMP obtained linear regression (p<0.05) with the mathematical equation: 1.30+0.11*BL; 13.90+0.41*FUH; 11.02+0.18*RUH; and 3.87+0.16*UC.

Conclusion: This study shows that the DMP of dairy cows could be predicted based on their BL and udder morphometry.

Keywords: body length, front udder height, milk production, rear udder height, udder circumference.

Seroprevalence and risk factors of brucellosis in livestock in the wildlife and livestock interface area of Similipal Biosphere Reserve, India

Research (Published online: 13-03-2020)

11. Seroprevalence and risk factors of brucellosis in livestock in the wildlife and livestock interface area of Similipal Biosphere Reserve, India

Sujit Kumar Behera, Deepanker Das, K. Balasubramani, Savitha Chellappan, Kaushik Rajaram, Himanshu Kumar Mohanta and Praveen Balabaskaran Nina

Veterinary World, 13(3): 465-470

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Brucellosis is an important zoonotic disease that affects fertility in farm animals. The risk factors of brucellosis have not been well studied. This study aimed to understand the seroprevalence and risk factors of brucellosis among livestock in Bangriposi block of Mayurbhanj district in Odisha, a region that borders Similipal wildlife reserve.

Materials and Methods: Rose Bengal plate test (RBPT) was carried out to estimate the seroprevalence of the livestock in this region. Bivariate analysis was carried out to analyze the association between the variables and brucellosis. Binary logistic regression was performed to assess the risk factors associated with brucellosis in the livestock.

Results: Based on RBPT, the seroprevalence of brucellosis among cattle and goats was estimated to be 1.1% and 11.2%, respectively. Binary logistic regression analysis indicates that study area, age, goats, animals with a history of abortion, and rearing practices were the major risk factors in this region.

Conclusion: This is one of the first studies in India to shed light on risk factors of brucellosis, an important neglected disease that affects the health of animals and humans and nation's economy.

Keywords: binary logistic regression analysis, bivariate analysis, brucellosis, rose bengal plate test, seroprevalence.

Screening for tylosin and other antimicrobial residues in fresh and fermented (nono) cow milk in Delta state, South-South, Nigeria

Research (Published online: 12-03-2020)

10. Screening for tylosin and other antimicrobial residues in fresh and fermented (nono) cow milk in Delta state, South-South, Nigeria

Onwumere-Idolor Onyinye Stella, Ekene Vivienne Ezenduka and Nwanta John Anaelom

Veterinary World, 13(3): 458-464

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Milk is a food that contains almost all the essential nutrients needed for growth and maintenance for both young and old animals and man. Since quite nutritious and in high demand, dairy products should be free of both chemical and biological contaminants. Unfortunately, antibiotics used in the treatment of infectious diseases in dairy cattle are often seen in their products if withdrawal periods of those drugs are not observed before milking. This study aimed to detect the presence of antibiotics and the level of tylosin in fresh and fermented (nono) milk from cows in Delta state, Nigeria.

Materials and Methods: Two hundred and five samples comprising 126 fresh milk and 79 fermented milk (nono) were sampled from Kwale, Ozoro, and Oleh representing one senatorial district of Delta state, South-South Nigeria. They were screened for the presence of tylosin and other antimicrobial residues using four-plate test and tylosin was confirmed with high-performance liquid chromatography.

Results: Antibiotic residues were obtained in 76% and 85% of fresh milk and nono, respectively. Tylosin residue was also detected in 24% fresh milk and 11% nono samples at mean concentrations of 14.64±0.69 μg/l and 7.97±0.23 μg/l, respectively. The mean concentrations of tylosin from both milk types were below the recommended maximum residue limit (MRL) of 50 μg/l in dairy.

Conclusion: High prevalence of antimicrobial residues in fresh milk and nono shows that consumers in the study area are predisposed to health hazards due to the presence of residues of different antibiotics in fresh milk and nono. Although tylosin was confirmed in both milk products, the mean concentrations were below the MRL. However, it is still very vital to resort to the observance of withdrawal periods and avoid gross misuse of antimicrobials. It is also necessary to emphasize the need for effective prevention of infectious diseases and most importantly create awareness and establish a national antibiotic residue monitoring program in Nigeria.

Keywords: antimicrobials, dairy, milk, residue, tylosin.

Decellularization of canine kidney for three-dimensional organ regeneration

Research (Published online: 12-03-2020)

9. Decellularization of canine kidney for three-dimensional organ regeneration

Kazuki Tajima, Kohei Kuroda, Yuya Otaka, Rie Kinoshita, Mizuki Kita, Toshifumi Oyamada and Kazutaka Kanai

Veterinary World, 13(3): 452-457

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Kidney regeneration is required for dogs with end-stage renal failure. Decellularization is one of the bioengineering techniques, which involves the removal of all tissue cells and cellular components and conservation of the extracellular matrix (ECM). Studies in rats have shown that decellularized kidney has regenerative potential; however, there are no reports on renal decellularization in dogs. Here, we showed the decellularization of the canine kidney.

Materials and Methods: The renal artery of the cadaveric canine kidney was cannulated and the whole kidney was frozen at –80°C. After completely thawing, it was perfused with physiological saline and sodium dodecyl sulfate (0.5%, 6 h) through the cannulated renal artery to achieve decellularization. To assess the efficiency of the decellularization protocol, histological and immunohistochemical analysis of decellularized kidney was performed.

Results: The results of hematoxylin and eosin (H and E) staining revealed that the decellularized canine kidney had no apparent cellular components. In addition, 4’,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI) staining showed no visible nuclear components within the whole decellularized kidney. Therefore, both H and E and DAPI staining showed decellularization of the canine kidney. Our decellularization protocol also preserved the basement membrane of glomerulus, shown by periodic acid methenamine silver, periodic acid–Schiff, fibronectin, and collagen type IV stain.

Conclusion: Our decellularization protocol could eliminate cellular components and remaining native ECM structures of canine kidney. These results could promote further research into canine kidney regeneration, which may be the first small step to regenerate the canine kidney waiting for renal transplantation.

Keywords: bioengineering, dog, extracellular matrix, kidney, regeneration.

In vitro and in vivo efficacy study of cefepime, doripenem, tigecycline, and tetracycline against extended-spectrum beta-lactamases Escherichia coli in chickens

Research (Published online: 11-03-2020)

8. In vitro and in vivo efficacy study of cefepime, doripenem, tigecycline, and tetracycline against extended-spectrum beta-lactamases Escherichia coli in chickens

Yaser Hamadeh Tarazi, Ehab A. Abu-Basha, Zuhair Bani Ismail and Rawan A. Tailony

Veterinary World, 13(3): 446-451

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: At present, there are no data about the efficacy of some recent antibiotics on Escherichia coli in broiler chickens in the study area. This study was designed to evaluate the in vitro and in vivo efficacy of cefepime, doripenem, tigecycline, and tetracycline against multidrug-resistant-extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (MDR-ESBLs) producing E. coli in broiler chicks.

Materials and Methods: A total of 34 MDR-ESBLs E. coli isolates were used in this study. In vitro evaluation of the antibacterial efficacy of cefepime, doripenem, tigecycline, and tetracycline were performed using disk diffusion and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) assays. In vivo evaluation of the efficacy of the antibiotics was perfumed using 180, 2-week-old chicks challenged with MDR-ESBL-producing E. coli strain O78. Chicks were divided into six groups (30 chicks each) according to the treatment regimen. Treatment was administered to chicks in Groups 3-6 intravenously, twice per day for 1 week using one antibiotic per group at concentration 10 times the determined MIC. Chicks in the positive control (Group 1) were challenged and received 0.2 ml of sterile Tryptone Soy Broth (TSB), while those in the negative control (Group 2) were not challenged and received 0.2 ml of sterile TSB. The severity of clinical signs, gross lesions, and mortality rate was scored and compared between groups.

Results: All E. coli isolates were sensitive to doripenem and tigecycline, while 88% were sensitive to cefepime and only 23% were sensitive to tetracycline. In vivo antibiotic efficacy evaluation in challenged chicks revealed a significant reduction in the severity of clinical signs, gross lesions, and mortality (3%) in chicks treated with cefepime compared to non-treated chicks (55%). There was no significant effect on the severity of clinical signs, gross lesions, and mortality in chicks treated with doripenem, tigecycline, and tetracycline compared to non-treated chicks. The mortality rates of chicks treated with doripenem, tigecycline, and tetracycline were 57%, 50%, and 90%, respectively.

Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that most MDR-ESBLs producing E. coli isolates were sensitive to doripenem, tigecycline, and cefepime. However, in vivo study indicated that only cefepime was effective and resulted in a significant reduction in clinical signs, gross lesions, and mortality in infected chicks. Therefore, cefepime could be used to treat naturally infected chickens with MDR-ESBLs producing strains of E. coli.

Keywords: antimicrobial resistance, chickens, colibacillosis, Escherichia coli, multidrug-resistant-extended-spectrum beta-lactamases.

Phenotypes, antibacterial-resistant profile, and virulence-associated genes of Salmonella serovars isolated from retail chicken meat in Egypt

Research (Published online: 11-03-2020)

7. Phenotypes, antibacterial-resistant profile, and virulence-associated genes of Salmonella serovars isolated from retail chicken meat in Egypt

Amal Awad, Mayada Gwida, Eman Khalifa and Asmaa Sadat

Veterinary World, 13(3): 440-445

ABSTRACT

Aim: The present study was designed to investigate the occurrence and distribution of Salmonella serotypes in chicken meat samples, and to explore the susceptibility of the strains to antimicrobials, as well as their virulence-associated genes.

Materials and Methods: Two-hundred retail chicken meat samples from different shops, as well as 25 stool specimens from retail shop workers, were included in the study. The collected samples were examined bacteriologically for the presence of salmonellae. Salmonella isolates were serotyped using a slide agglutination test for O and H antigens and were screened for the presence of five virulence genes (stn, pef, invA, sopB, and avrA) using a uniplex polymerase chain reaction assay and for their susceptibility to 18 antimicrobial agents using the disk diffusion method.

Results: Thirty-one Salmonella isolates belonging to 12 different serovars were identified. Salmonella Enteritidis and Salmonella Kentucky were the dominant serovars (22.6% each). Salmonella isolates displayed a high antibiotic resistance against erythromycin, sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim, doxycycline, cephalexin, cefaclor, tetracycline, polymyxin B, cefuroxime, vancomycin, and streptomycin. All Salmonella isolates exhibited multidrug resistance (MDR) and demonstrated different virulence genes. The majority of Salmonella serovars (87.1%) harbored sopB gene, 54.8% carried avrA and pef genes, while all isolates carried invA and stn genes.

Conclusion: The presence of virulent MDR Salmonellae in raw chicken meat could allow the possibility of transmission of these resistant serovars to humans. Therefore, strict hygienic measures should be followed on the whole poultry production chain to decrease the potential transmission of Salmonella infection from poultry meat to humans.

Keywords: antibacterial susceptibility, broilers meat, multidrug resistance, Salmonella, virulence.

Occurrence and seasonal variation of aflatoxin M1 in raw cow milk collected from different regions of Algeria

Research (Published online: 09-03-2020)

6. Occurrence and seasonal variation of aflatoxin M1 in raw cow milk collected from different regions of Algeria

Sarah Mohammedi-Ameur, Mohammedi Dahmane, Carlo Brera, Moustafa Kardjadj and Meriem Hind Ben-Mahdi

Veterinary World, 13(3): 433-439

Background and Aim: Aflatoxins are metabolites of molds that exert potentially toxic effect on animals and humans. This study aimed to investigate the occurrence of aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) in raw cow milk collected during 1 year (2016-2017) from different regions of Algeria and risk factors associated with the contamination.

Materials and Methods: During the survey period, 84 samples of raw milk were collected in three regions of Algeria (northeast, north center, and northwest) during four seasons. AFM1 levels were analyzed by competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

Results: AFM1 was detected in 39 (46.43%) samples (total mean concentration, 71.92 ng/L; range, 95.59-557.22 ng/L). However, the AFM1 levels exceeded the maximum tolerance limit set by the Food and Drug Administration in the USA (500 ng/L) in only 1 sample (1.19%). Statistical analysis revealed significant differences (p<0.005) between AFM1 levels in milk samples collected in the spring and autumn. The mean AFM1 levels in samples collected in the spring were significantly higher than those in samples collected in autumn.

Conclusion: The survey indicates that farmers involved in milk production should be made aware of the adverse effects of aflatoxin contamination in animal feed. A systematic control program of supplementary feedstuff for lactating cows should be introduced by the public health authorities.

Keywords: aflatoxin M1, Algeria, cow milk, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

Hematological and serum biochemical profile in cattle experimentally infected with foot-and-mouth disease virus

Research (Published online: 09-03-2020)

5. Hematological and serum biochemical profile in cattle experimentally infected with foot-and-mouth disease virus

S. Saravanan, V. Umapathi, M. Priyanka, M. Hosamani, B. P. Sreenivasa, B. H. M. Patel, K. Narayanan, Aniket Sanyal and S. H. Basagoudanavar

Veterinary World, 13(3): 426-432

Background and Aim: Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is an acute viral infection affecting cloven-hoofed animals causing vesicular erosions in the oral cavity and interdigital space. The present study was undertaken to ascertain the time-dependent changes in clinical, hematological, and biochemical profiles in different breeds of cattle following experimental infection.

Materials and Methods: The animals were inoculated with 1.0×104 50% bovine tongue infectious dose (BTID50) by intradermolingual route. Clinical signs were observed, and blood/serum samples were collected at different time intervals.

Results: The white blood cell count declined sharply on days 7-13 and recovered on day 14 post-FMD infection. Biochemical analysis of serum markers for vital organ profile revealed no marked damage. However, a significant increase in blood urea nitrogen (BUN) value indicated pre-renal azotemia. Transient hyperthyroidism was indicated by the rise in T3 and T4 that can be correlated with a decrease in triglyceride and total cholesterol levels. In the cardiac damage assessment study, a distinct breed difference was observed wherein Malnad Gidda calves showed no cardiac damage.

Conclusion: Except thyroid profile, BUN, and creatine kinase-myocardial band, all other serum biochemical parameters showed no significant abnormalities, whereas lymphopenia is the only hematological change and it is suggested that effective ameliorative measures should be targeted mainly on the feed/water intake, thyroid gland, and the level of lymphocytes.

Keywords: biochemical profile, experimentally infected indigenous and crossbred calves, foot-and-mouth disease, hematological profile.

A look at the incidence and risk factors for dog bites in unincorporated Harris County, Texas, USA

Research (Published online: 05-03-2020)

4. A look at the incidence and risk factors for dog bites in unincorporated Harris County, Texas, USA

Bonnie C. Hasoon, Alyssa E. Shipp and Jamal Hasoon

Veterinary World, 13(3): 419-425

ABSTRACT

Aim: This study examined the incidence, demographic predictors, and map patterns of dog bites to humans in unincorporated Harris County, Texas, USA.

Materials and Methods: Dog bites reported to Harris County Veterinary Public Health (HCVPH) between January 1, 2013, and December 31, 2016, were analyzed in this retrospective cohort study. Canine and victim characteristics and bite circumstances were evaluated to establish risk factors for bites. Geographic location was used to produce choropleth maps.

Results: There were 6683 dog bites reported to HCVPH between the years of 2013 and 2016, with stable incidence rates over time. The incidence was highest for both children and older adults. Dogs with the primary breed of Pit Bull had the greatest frequency of bites (25.07%), with the second highest breed being Labrador Retrievers (13.72%). Bites were more common from intact dogs of both genders, especially from intact males. Persons aged 70+ had the greatest incidence of severe injury (14.09/100,000). A strong correlation between dog bite incidences and stray dogs was found after controlling for the human population and income.

Conclusion: Dog bites remain a largely preventable issue, and risk factors identified in this study can help direct preventative efforts to reduce the incidence of dog bites.

Keywords: companion animal behavior, epidemiology, injury, overpopulation, public health.

Influence of hepatic neoplasia on life expectancy in dogs

Research (Published online: 04-03-2020)

3. Influence of hepatic neoplasia on life expectancy in dogs

I. F. Vilkovyskiy, Yu A. Vatnikov, E. V. Kulikov, E. D. Sotnikova, S. A. Yagnikov, S. B. Seleznev, E. A. Krotova, V. M. Byakhova, V. N. Grishin and V. P. Avdotin

Veterinary World, 13(3): 413-418

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: The present study investigated the influence of liver tumor structure on life expectancy in dogs. Diseases of the liver comprise 5-25% of all non-communicable diseases in dogs, and primary hepatic tumors account for 0.6-1.3% of tumors. This research aimed to study the post-operative life span of animals with primary or metastatic tumors of the liver.

Materials and Methods: During the study period, 7124 oncological operations were performed in our clinic. In total, 128 liver tumors were detected in live animals, while 323 were detected posthumously. Forty animals underwent surgery for various liver tumors. In dogs with primary liver tumors, the average age was 11.9 years and the average body weight was 15.5 kg, while in dogs with liver metastases, the mean age was 11.4 years and the average body weight was 24 kg.

Results: The ratio of males to females among dogs with primary liver tumors was about 1:1 (ten females and nine males), while that among dogs with metastatic liver damage was clearly predominantly female (14 females and two males) because females often undergo surgery for cancerous mammary glands or ovaries.

Conclusion: The size of tumors and the number of affected lobes had a significant effect on the post-operative life span. With a tumor size of <5 cm and a lesion covering less than two lobes of the liver, life expectancy was significantly longer and the prognosis was more favorable. In cases of large tumors or those affecting more than two lobes, life expectancy was significantly reduced and the prognosis was cautious to unfavorable.

Keywords: dogs, life span, liver tumor, metastatic tumor, primary tumor.

Crossing effect for improving egg production traits in chickens involving local and commercial strains

Research (Published online: 03-03-2020)

2. Crossing effect for improving egg production traits in chickens involving local and commercial strains

Mostafa Ahmed Soliman, Mohamed Hassan Khalil, Karim El-Sabrout and Mostafa Kamel Shebl

Veterinary World, 13(3): 407-412

ABSTRACT

Aim: This study aimed to contribute to the productivity improvement of the local chickens by enhancing their egg production traits using a crossbreeding program between Alexandria (local strain) and Lohmann White (commercial strain).

Materials and Methods: One thousand two-hundred and eighty-five 4-week-old chicks from two strains: Alexandria local strain (AA) and Lohmann White commercial strain (LL) and their reciprocal crosses obtained from 16 males and 160 females, were used to produce four genetic groups (AA, LL, AL, and LA). Differences among genotypes, direct additive, heterosis, and reciprocal effects were investigated regarding the following traits: Body weight at 4 and 8 weeks and at the age of sexual maturity, age at sexual maturity, egg production, average egg weight, and egg mass during the first 90 days of laying.

Results: Statistically significant effects of the genotypes were observed on traits studied. Analysis of direct additive effects showed that AA was superior as a sire strain for improving body weight at early age. For egg traits (age at sexual maturity, egg production, average egg weight, and egg mass), LL was better as a sire strain to improve these traits. Significant positive heterosis percentages were observed for body weight. The crosses (AL and reciprocal) were significantly superior in egg traits (egg production, average egg weight, and egg mass) compared to the local strain. The cross (LA) laid significantly earlier than the local strain. Analysis of reciprocal effects cleared that the local strain could be used as a strain of dam to improve body weight and egg traits.

Conclusion: Crossing improved egg production, egg weight, and egg mass in hybrids compared to the local strain.

Keywords: additive effect, crossbreeding, heterosis, laying hens, reciprocal effect.

High-resolution melting curve analysis for infectious bronchitis virus strain differentiation

Research (Published online: 03-03-2020)

1. High-resolution melting curve analysis for infectious bronchitis virus strain differentiation

Mustafa Ababneh, Ola Ababneh and Mohammad Borhan Al-Zghoul

Veterinary World, 13(3): 400-406

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Belonging to the Coronaviridae family, avian infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) causes respiratory, reproductive, and renal diseases in poultry. Preventative measures lie mainly in vaccination, while the gold standard for IBV classification and differentiation is based on the sequence analysis of the spike 1 (S1) gene. In this study, we tested a new assay for IBV strain classification that is less expensive and requires reduced time and effort to perform. We carried out a quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction followed by high-resolution melting (qRT-PCR/HRM) curve analysis.

Materials and Methods: In this study, qRT-PCR was conducted on a partial fragment S1 gene followed by a high resolution melting curve analysis (qRT-PCR/HRM) on 23 IBV-positive samples in Jordan. For this assay, we utilized the most common IBV vaccine strains (Mass and 4/91) as a reference in the HRM assay. To evaluate the discrimination power of the qRT-PCR/ HRM, we did the sequencing of the partial S1 gene.

Results: It was shown that HRM was able to classify IBV samples into four clusters based on the degree of similarity between their melting points: The first cluster exhibited the highest similarity to the 4/91 strain, while the second was similar to the Mass-related IBV strain. Although the third cluster contained the highest number of samples, it displayed no similarity to any of the reference vaccine strains, and, after comparing them with the sequencing results, we found that the samples in the third cluster were similar to the variant II-like (IS-1494-06) IBV field strain. Finally, the fourth cluster comprised one unique sample that was found to belong to the Q1 IBV strain.

Conclusion: Our developed qRT-PCR/HRM curve analysis was able to detect and rapidly identify novel and vaccine-related IBV strains as confirmed by S1 gene nucleotide sequences, making it a rapid and cost-effective tool.

Keywords: high-resolution melting curve analysis, infectious bronchitis virus, spike 1 gene.

Schistosoma japonicum infections in cattle and water buffaloes of farming communities of Koronadal City, Philippines

Research (Published online: 02-03-2020)

6. Schistosoma japonicum infections in cattle and water buffaloes of farming communities of Koronadal City, Philippines

Jan Clyden B. Tenorio and Elizabeth C. Molina

International Journal of One Health, 6(1): 28-33

Background and Aim: Schistosomiasis is one of the seven neglected tropical diseases that are of public health concern in the Philippines. The disease is prevalent in few of the barangays (communities) in Koronadal City, Philippines. Status of the Schistosoma japonicum infections in domestic animal reservoir host has yet to be explored in these endemic communities. The study aimed to determine the prevalence and infection intensity of the disease in cattle and water buffaloes of endemic communities of Koronadal City.

Materials and Methods: Schistosomiasis was investigated in 70 cattle and 38 water buffaloes from three endemic communities in Koronadal City. The copro-parasitological technique used was the formalin-ethyl acetate sedimentation method.

Results: S. japonicum infection was observed in 48.6% of cattle and 60.5% in water buffaloes. The bovine contamination index indicated that all infected animals released 3,505,500 eggs/day. On average, infected cattle released 1,674,500 eggs daily, while infected water buffaloes liberated 1,932,000 eggs in the environment daily.

Conclusion: Cattle and water buffaloes in these endemic areas are infected with S. japonicum. These animals release large numbers of eggs in the environment daily; hence, played an important role in disease transmission. Those living and working in endemic areas should be aware of the inherent dangers of the disease.

Keywords: one health, Philippines, Schistosoma japonicum, schistosomiasis, zoonotic parasitic diseases.

Effect of feeding fermented mixture of cassava pulp and Moringa oleifera leaf meal on immune responses, antioxidative status, biochemistry indices, and intestinal ecology of broilers

Research (Published online: 28-02-2020)

23. Effect of feeding fermented mixture of cassava pulp and Moringa oleifera leaf meal on immune responses, antioxidative status, biochemistry indices, and intestinal ecology of broilers

Sugiharto Sugiharto, Endang Widiastuti, Isroli Isroli, Turrini Yudiarti, Tri A. Sartono and Hanny I. Wahyuni

Veterinary World, 13(2): 392-399

Aim: The study investigated the effect of feeding fermented mixture of cassava pulp and Moringa oleifera leaf meal (FCPMO) on the immune responses, antioxidative status, biochemical parameters, and intestinal ecology of broiler chickens.

Materials and Methods: Four hundred Lohmann broiler chickens were distributed to four groups of diets including CONT (corn-soybean-based feed with no additive), BACI (corn-soybean-based diet supplemented with 0.1% zinc bacitracin), FERM (diet containing 20% FCPMO), and FERB (diet containing 20% FCPMO and added with 0.1% Bacillus subtilis). At days 4, 14, and 19, the chicks were vaccinated using commercial Newcastle disease-infectious bursal disease (ND-IBD), IBD, and ND vaccines, respectively. At day 35, blood was sampled and digesta was obtained from the ileum and caecum. Furthermore, the duodenal segment was obtained.

Results: The BACI, FERM, and FERB groups had higher (p<0.05) serum superoxide dismutase activity than control. The malondialdehyde was lower (p=0.07) in BACI, FERM, and FERB than that in CONT. The BACI and FERM had lower (p<0.05) leukocytes and lymphocytes than CONT. The hemoglobin, erythrocytes, and hematocrit were lower (p<0.05) in BACI and FERM than those in CONT and FERB. Serum total triglyceride was lower (p<0.05) in FERM and FERB than that in CONT. The FERM and FERB had higher (p<0.05) albumin levels. Serum globulin level was lower (p<0.05) in FERB than that in BACI, but did not differ from that in CONT and FERM. The numbers of coliform, lactose-negative enterobacteria and enterobacteria were lower (p<0.05) in FERB than that in other treatment groups. Crypt depth (CD) was higher (p<0.05) in FERM, while the villi height to CD ratio was lower (p<0.05) in FERM than that in CONT and FERB. The treatments showed no effect (p>0.05) on cecal volatile fatty acids production.

Conclusion: Feeding FCPMO improved immune responses, antioxidative status, and physiological conditions, but had less effect on the intestinal ecology of broilers.

Keywords: antioxidant, broiler, fermented feed, health.