Hepatoprotective activity of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) in sodium nitrite-induced hepatotoxicity

Research (Published online: 07-09-2020)

10. Hepatoprotective activity of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) in sodium nitrite-induced hepatotoxicity

Sri Puji Astuti Wahyuningsih, Elma Sakinatus Sajidah, Baiq Naili Dewi Atika, Dwi Winarni and Manikya Pramudya

Veterinary World, 13(9): 1815-1821

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: For years, people have used sodium nitrite as a food preservative. This study determined the effect of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) pod methanol extract (OPME) on mice with hepatotoxicity induced by sodium nitrite. The flavonoid and total phenolic levels, serum biochemistry, and liver histology were examined.

Materials and Methods: Green okra pod extraction was performed using ethanol methanol solvent. Thirty adult male BALB/c mice (8-10 weeks, ∼30 g) were divided into six groups: Normal control, negative control (sodium nitrite 50 mg/kg BW exposure), and treatment groups (sodium nitrite exposure and OPME at doses of 50, 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg BW). Subsequently, they were exposed to sodium nitrite and administered multiple doses of OPME for 19 days by gavage. After that, serum was used for biochemical evaluation, and liver histological analysis was performed. All data were statistically analyzed (α=0.05).

Results: All doses of OPME reduced the levels of nitric oxide (NO), malondialdehyde (MDA), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). In this research, both superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) levels increased in all OPME-administered treatments . All doses also reduced necrotic cells, proportion of swollen cells, and inflammation in liver histological analysis. The results of this study showed that OPME exerted hepatoprotective effects by lowering MDA, NO, ALT, and AST levels. It also improved SOD and CAT levels and recovered damaged liver tissue to its normal state. The optimal dose of OPME was 50-100 mg/kg BW.

Conclusion: OPME has potential as a natural hepatoprotective agent against sodium nitrite exposure.

Keywords: hepatoprotective, liver histology, okra pods methanol extract, sodium nitrite.

Phylogenetic group determination and plasmid virulence gene profiles of colistin-resistant Escherichia coli originated from the broiler meat supply chain in Bogor, Indonesia

Research (Published online: 05-09-2020)

9. Phylogenetic group determination and plasmid virulence gene profiles of colistin-resistant Escherichia coli originated from the broiler meat supply chain in Bogor, Indonesia

Irma Rahayuningtyas, Agustin Indrawati, I Wayan Teguh Wibawan, Maria Fatima Palupi and Istiyaningsih Istiyaningsih

Veterinary World, 13(9): 1807-1814

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Pathogenic Escherichia coli contamination along the broiler meat supply chain is a serious public health concern. This bacterial infection with multidrug-resistant can lead to treatment failure. Several studies have revealed that avian pathogenic E. coli (APEC) and human extraintestinal pathogenic E. coli (ExPEC) showed a close genetic relationship and may share virulence genes. This study aimed to determine the phylogenetic group and virulence gene profiles in colistin-resistant E. coli obtained from the broiler meat supply chain in Bogor, West Java, Indonesia.

Materials and Methods: Fifty-eight archive isolates originated from the cloacal swab, litter, drinking water, inside plucker swab, fresh meat at small scale poultry slaughterhouses, and traditional markets were used in this study. All the isolates were characterized by a polymerase chain reaction to determine the phylogenetic group (A, B1, B2, or D) and virulence gene profiles with APEC marker genes (iutA, hlyF, iss, iroN, and ompT).

Results: Phylogenetic grouping revealed that the isolates belong to A group (34.48%), D group (34.48%), B1 group (17.24%), and B2 group (13.79%). The virulence gene prevalence was as follows: iutA (36%), hlyF (21%), ompT (21%), iroN (10%), and iss (9%). The B2 group presented with more virulence genes combinations. iroN, hlyF, and ompT genes were positively associated with the B2 group (p≤0.05).

Conclusion: Our results highlight the role of colistin-resistant E. coli originated from the broiler meat supply chain as a potential reservoir for human ExPEC virulence genes.

Keywords: broiler supply chain, Escherichia coli, phylogenetic group, virulence gene.

Anti-feline immunodeficiency virus reverse transcriptase properties of some medicinal and edible mushrooms

Research (Published online: 05-09-2020)

8. Anti-feline immunodeficiency virus reverse transcriptase properties of some medicinal and edible mushrooms

Supaphorn Seetaha, Siriluk Ratanabunyong, Lueacha Tabtimmai, Kiattawee Choowongkomon, Jatuporn Rattanasrisomporn and Khuanjarat Choengpanya

Veterinary World, 13(9): 1798-1806

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) causes AIDS-like symptoms in domestic and wild cats. Treatment of infected cats has been performed using human anti-HIV drugs, which showed some limitations. This study aimed to determine the anti-FIV potential of some mushrooms.

Materials and Methods: A total of 17 medicinal and edible mushrooms were screened to find their inhibitory effect against FIV reverse transcriptase (FIV-RT). Three solvents, water, ethanol, and hexane, were used to prepare crude mushroom extracts. Fluorescence spectroscopy was used to perform relative inhibition and 50% inhibitory concentrations (IC50) studies.

Results: The ethanol extract from dried fruiting bodies of Inonotus obliquus showed the strongest inhibition with an IC50 value of 0.80±0.16 μg/mL. The hexane extract from dried mycelium of I. obliquus and ethanol and water extracts from fresh fruit bodies of Phellinus igniarius also exhibited strong activities with the IC50 values of 1.22±0.20, 4.33±0.39, and 6.24±1.42 μg/mL, respectively. The ethanol extract from fresh fruiting bodies of Cordyceps sinensis, hexane extracts from dried mycelium of I. obliquus, ethanol extracts of Ganoderma lucidum, hexane extracts of fresh fruiting bodies of Morchella esculenta, and fresh fruiting bodies of C. sinensis showed moderate anti-FIV-RT activities with IC50 values of 29.73±12.39, 49.97±11.86, 65.37±14.14, 77.59±8.31, and 81.41±17.10 μg/mL, respectively. These mushroom extracts show anti-FIV potential.

Conclusion: The extracts from I. obliquus, P. igniarius, C. sinensis, and M. esculenta showed potential anti-FIV activity.

Keywords: feline immunodeficiency virus, fluorescence spectroscopy, mushrooms, crude extracts, reverse transcriptase.

Prophylactic impact of nano-selenium on performance, carcasses quality, and tissues' selenium concentration using reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography during microbial challenge in broiler chickens

Research (Published online: 04-09-2020)

7. Prophylactic impact of nano-selenium on performance, carcasses quality, and tissues' selenium concentration using reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography during microbial challenge in broiler chickens

Essam S. Soliman, Fadwa F. Mahmoud, Mai A. Fadel and Rania T. Hamad

Veterinary World, 13(9): 1780-1797

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Nano-selenium (NS) supplementation contributes in improving productivity, performance, and meat quality while reducing public health concern. Influence of NS and inorganic selenium (Se) water additive on performance, carcass quality, immunoglobulin concentration, intestinal microbiota, Se tissue concentrations, and tissue architecture was studied.

Materials and Methods: Two-hundred and sixty 1-day-old Hubbard chicks were randomly grouped into five groups (5×52) and supplemented with 0.5 and 1.0 mL of NS and inorganic Se (100 mg.L-1). G1, G2, G3, and G4 were challenged with Escherichia coli O157: H7 2.6×108 on the 14th day. A total of 2250 samples, including 250 sera, 250 intestinal swabs, and 1500 organ and tissue samples as liver, spleen, heart, bursa, intestine, and breast muscles, and 250 eviscerated carcasses were collected.

Results: The results revealed a highly significant increase (p<0.01) in live body weights, weight gains, performance indices, carcasses, and organs weights, whereas immunoglobulin G and M concentrations in broilers treated with 0.5 and 1.0 mL NS, respectively, synchronized reveal a highly significant decline (p<0.01) in total bacterial and Enterobacteriaceae counts of intestinal swabs and breast muscles, final pH24, and drip loss in broilers treated with 0.5 and 1.0 mL NS, respectively. Meanwhile, water holding capacity revealed no significant differences between all groups. Reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography examination revealed the earlier disappearance of NS residues than inorganic Se from the broiler's liver and muscles. Histopathological photomicrographs of the liver, spleen, bursa of Fabricius, and intestine, as well as, the immunohistochemistry of intestinal sections revealed superior tissue architecture in broilers treated with NS contrary to inorganic Se.

Conclusion: The study showed significant stimulation actions of NS on performance, immunity, carcass and meat quality, intestinal and muscles' bacterial load as well as short withdrawal period and nearly normal cellular architecture compared to inorganic Se.

Keywords: broilers, carcass, immunity, nano-selenium, performance, reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography.

Molecular characterization of antimicrobial resistance and enterobacterial repetitive intergenic consensus-PCR as a molecular typing tool for Salmonella spp. isolated from poultry and humans

Research (Published online: 04-09-2020)

6. Molecular characterization of antimicrobial resistance and enterobacterial repetitive intergenic consensus-PCR as a molecular typing tool for Salmonella spp. isolated from poultry and humans

María Paula Herrera-Sánchez, Roy Rodríguez-Hernández and Iang Schroniltgen Rondón-Barragán

Veterinary World, 13(9): 1771-1779

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Salmonella spp. are one of the most important food-borne pathogens in the world, emerging as a major public health concern. Moreover, multidrug-resistant (MDR) strains have been isolated from salmonellosis outbreaks, which compromise its treatment success. This study was conducted to characterize the phenotypic and genotypic antibiotic resistance profile of Salmonella strains isolated from broilers and humans from the regions of Tolima and Santander (Colombia).

Materials and Methods: Salmonella spp. strains (n=49) were confirmed through molecular detection by amplification of the invA gene. Phenotypic antibiotic resistance was determined by the automated method and the agar diffusion method, and the presence of resistance genes was evaluated by PCR. Genotypic characterization was conducted using the enterobacterial repetitive intergenic consensus (ERIC)-PCR method, from which a dendrogram was generated and the possible phylogenetic relationships were established.

Results: Salmonella isolates were classified as MDR strains exhibiting resistance to four antibiotic classes, penicillins, aminoglycosides, sulfonamides, and cephalosporins, and the human strains were resistant to gentamicin. At the genotypic level, the isolates contained the genes blaCMY2, blaCTX-M, blaPSE-1, blaTEM, aadA1, srtB, dfrA1, sul2, and floR. The genotyping results obtained by ERIC-PCR allowed the grouping of strains according to the source of isolation.

Conclusion: The Salmonella spp. strains exhibited resistance to multiple antibiotics, as well as multiple genes associated with them, and the ERIC-PCR method was a technique that was helpful in generating clusters with biological significance.

Keywords: broiler farm, genotyping, resistance genes.

Candidatus Rickettsia colombianensi in ticks from reptiles in Córdoba, Colombia

Research (Published online: 03-09-2020)

5. Candidatus Rickettsia colombianensi in ticks from reptiles in Córdoba, Colombia

Jorge Miranda, Lina Violet-Lozano, Samia Barrera, Salim Mattar, Santiago Monsalve-Buriticá, Juan Rodas and Verónica Contreras

Veterinary World, 13(9): 1764-1770

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Wildlife animals are reservoirs of a large number of microorganisms pathogenic to humans, and ticks could be responsible for the transmission of these pathogens. Rickettsia spp. are the most prevalent pathogens found in ticks. This study was conducted to detect Rickettsia spp. in ticks collected from free-living and illegally trafficked reptiles from the Department of Córdoba, Colombia.

Materials and Methods: During the period from October 2011 to July 2014, ticks belonging to the family Ixodidae were collected, preserved in 96% ethanol, identified using taxonomic keys, and pooled (between 1 and 14 ticks) according to sex, stage, host, and collected place for subsequent DNA extraction. Rickettsia detection was performed using real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), followed by conventional PCR to amplify a larger fragment of the gltA and 16S rRNA genes. The amplicons were sequenced using the Sanger method, and the nucleotide sequences were subjected to BLAST analysis to identify homologous sequences in GenBank, after which phylogenetic analysis was performed using the MEGA X software.

Results: In total, 21 specimens of nine species of reptiles were sampled, from which 805 Amblyomma dissimile ticks were collected, but only 180 ticks were selected to create 34 groups. The DNA of Rickettsia spp. was detected in 30/34 (88%) groups. The sequences of the gene gltA and 16S rRNA revealed a 100% identity with Candidatus Rickettsia colombianensi (GenBank: KF905456 and GenBank: KF691750).

Conclusion: A. dissimile was the only tick found in all the sampled reptiles. The presence of Candidatus Rickettsia colombianensi in reptile ticks could represent a public health problem due to the risk of transmission to humans and the introduction of microorganisms to other geographical areas.

Keywords: arthropod vectors, reptile trade, tick-borne diseases, wild animals.

Topical effect of a specific spot-on treatment made of natural ingredients in rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) with skin problems: A pilot study

Research (Published online: 03-09-2020)

4. Topical effect of a specific spot-on treatment made of natural ingredients in rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) with skin problems: A pilot study

Galia Sheinberg Waisburd, Alberto Martin Cordero, Camilo Romero Núñez, Laura Miranda Contreras, Rafael Heredia Cárdenas, and Linda G. Bautista Gómez

Veterinary World, 13(9): 1760-1763

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Rabbits often experience skin diseases. The beneficial effects of plant extracts and essential oils are well known in other species, but the properties of these natural ingredients have not been evaluated in rabbits in vivo. The objective of the current study was to evaluate the effect of a topical, commercial solution made of essential oils, plant-extracted polyunsaturated fatty acids, and Vitamin E on rabbits suffering from skin problems.

Materials and Methods: Thirty New Zealand rabbits (no sex distinction) were included in this study, with an average weight of 2–3 kg. The rabbits were divided into two groups: The first group was treated with a topical solution made from natural ingredients, and the second was a control group. The rabbits' hair and skin conditions were evaluated on days 1, 14, 28, and 35 after treatment. Data were analyzed using a Kruskal–Wallis range test.

Results: Significant differences were determined in terms of glossy hair variability on days 28 and 35 (p≤0.0001). On days 14-35, hair loss was determined to have reduced (p=0.001), and flaking and odor improved in the treatment group, showing increased scores and significant differences (p=0.0001). By contrast, the control group showed stable overall skin and hair score and an increase in the dryness score.

Conclusion: The topical application of essential oils and polyunsaturated fatty acids with Vitamin E was able to improve hair shine and skin hydration and reduce flaking, bad odor, and hair loss, improving the general, and cutaneous aspect of rabbits.

Keywords: essential oils, polyunsaturated fatty acids, rabbits, skin, Vitamin E.

Face mask use among individuals who are not medically diagnosed with COVID-19: A lack of evidence for and against and implications around early public health

Research (Published online: 02-09-2020)

3. Face mask use among individuals who are not medically diagnosed with COVID-19: A lack of evidence for and against and implications around early public health

Keshini Madara Marasinghe

International Journal of One Health, 6(2): 109-117

ABSTRACT

Aim: Since the beginning of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak, public health professionals from around the world have been making decisions on face mask use among individuals who are not medically diagnosed with COVID- 19 or "healthy individuals" to limit the spread of COVID-19. While some countries have strongly recommended face masks for "healthy individuals," other countries have recommended against it. Public health recommendations that have been provided to this population since the beginning of the outbreak have been controversial, contradicting, and inconsistent around the world. The purpose of this paper is to understand available evidence around the effectiveness or ineffectiveness of face mask use in limiting the spread of COVID-19 among individuals who have not yet been diagnosed with COVID-19 and most importantly, to understand the state of knowledge early public health recommendations are based on.

Materials and Methods: A systematic review was conducted to identify studies that investigated the use of face masks to limit the spread of COVID-19 among "healthy individuals" in order to understand available evidence using the databases Cochrane Library, EMBASE, Google Scholar, PubMed, and Scopus. Two groups of keywords were combined: Those relating to COVID-19 and face masks.

Results: No studies were found, demonstrating a lack of evidence for and against face mask use suggesting implications around early public health recommendations provided to "healthy individuals".

Conclusion: Three and a half months into the COVID-19 outbreak (December 2019-2nd week of April 2020), there are no peer-reviewed scientific studies that have investigated the effectiveness or ineffectiveness of face mask use among "healthy individuals" to limit the spread of COVID-19. Yet, very strong public health recommendations have been provided on whether "healthy individuals" should or should not wear face masks to limit the spread of COVID-19 since the beginning of the outbreak. A lack of scientific evidence for and against face mask use heavily questions the basis of public health recommendations provided at a very early, yet a crucial stage of an outbreak. This finding and a further look at early public health recommendations conclude that there is a clear need for more concentrated research around face mask use among healthy individuals and public health recommendations that are evidence-based; precautionary in the absence of evidence; based on benefit-risk assessment; transparent; and globally aligned to provide the most successful guidelines during an infectious disease outbreak.

Keywords: COVID-19, masks, pandemics.

Financial and economic analyses of the impact of cattle mastitis on the profitability of Egyptian dairy farms

Research (Published online: 02-09-2020)

3. Financial and economic analyses of the impact of cattle mastitis on the profitability of Egyptian dairy farms

M. F. Azooz, Safaa A. El-Wakeel and H. M. Yousef

Veterinary World, 13(9): 1750-1759

ABSTRACT

Aim: This study aimed to evaluate and quantify the different factors affecting the costs of mastitis in cattle, to quantify the annual and monthly financial losses attributed to mastitis, and to estimate production losses using average linear scores found on The Dairy Herd Improvement Association somatic cell count (SCC) sheets and bulk tank SCC per lactation number.

Materials and Methods: All data (bovine mastitis-associated costs and expenditures in Egyptian dairy herds) were analyzed using SPSS/PCT, 2001. A partial budget technique using spreadsheet software and the general linear model procedure was used to analyze the productive and financial measures.

Results: Mastitis was present in 57.1% of cows (240/420), while clinical mastitis (CM) was present in 19% of them (80/420). The geometric mean of SCC/ml in bulk tank milk samples of 150 cattle dairy farms was 556.3×103. The annual subclinical mastitis (SCM)-related economic loss was 21,933,258.6 LE, and the two most important cost components were the subsequent decrease in milk production and quality premium losses (93% and 7% of SCM costs, respectively). The quality premium loss was 1,369,602.1 LE. On the other hand, the annual economic loss due to decreased milk production as a result of SCM was 20,563,656.5 LE. The total cost of 80 CM cases, including the failure and preventive costs, was 1,196,871.4 LE, including 1,169,150.4 LE failure costs (106,336.0 LE in direct costs and 1,062,814.4 LE in indirect costs) and 27,721.0 LE preventive costs. The average cost per CM case was 28,760.9 LE, including veterinary time and consultation fees of 250.0 LE (1%), labor 562.5 LE (2%), premature culling 736,000.0 LE (77%), decreased milk production 4085.18 LE (13.7%), discarded milk 185.3 LE (1%), and drugs and treatments 328.9 LE (1%). The total costs of CM (expenditures) extra control and preventive measures, including the diagnosis of CM for 80 cows annually in 20 Egyptian dairy farms were 27,721.0 LE, representing 346.5 LE or 1% of the total cost of CM cases. The cost of monitoring and diagnostic measures was 8635.2 LE, representing 107.9 LE or 1% of the total cost of a case of CM.

Conclusion: The method used for cost estimation, in this study, is highly adaptable to individual cattle farms and had a major role in assessing specific control and management measures. The concepts described in this paper help to improve our understanding of the full economic impact of clinical and subclinical mastitis in cattle in Egypt. Assessing the economic losses from mastitis to determine the economic costs and losses occurring in Egyptian dairy farms is critical for encouraging farmers to acknowledge the scale of the problem and implement effective management practices aimed at improving mastitis control and reducing the associated costs.

Keywords: clinical mastitis, economic impact, financial losses, subclinical mastitis.

Listeriosis in a peri-urban area: Cultural and molecular characterization of Listeria monocytogenes isolated from encephalitic goats

Research (Published online: 02-09-2020)

2. Listeriosis in a peri-urban area: Cultural and molecular characterization of Listeria monocytogenes isolated from encephalitic goats

Nagendra Nath Barman, Anjan Jyoti Nath, Sharmita Doley, Shameem Ara Begum, Parikshit Kakati, Sailendra Kumar Das, Taibur Rahman, Dipak Bhuyan, Bhaben Chandra Baishya and Susanta Goswami

Veterinary World, 13(9): 1743-1749

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Listeriosis in food animals bears a significant threat to human health. Detailed investigations into the cause facilitate proper management of the disease. This study reports the cultural, pathological, and molecular characterization of Listeria monocytogenes isolated from encephalitic goats from peri-urban Guwahati, Assam.

Materials and Methods: Out of nine suspected samples, five positive isolates of L. monocytogenes were subjected to bacteriological, biochemical, and molecular tests. The genus and species-specific L. monocytogenes 16S rRNA and prs genes were amplified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to yield 1200 and 370 bp sized products, respectively. The encephalitic form of the disease was characterized by circling movement, high fever, and terminal recumbence.

Results: All the five isolates were confirmed to be L. monocytogenes based on PCR amplification of genus and species-specific 16S rRNA and prs gene products. The isolates were sensitive to ciprofloxacin, oxytetracycline (OTC), and norfloxacin, but resistant to doxycycline and erythromycin. A high dose of OTC was used in a goat at the early stage of clinical symptom and the animal recovered clinically.

Conclusion: Listeriosis in goats could pose a significant public health threat as the meat (occasionally milk) or meat products from goats are widely consumed by the people of Assam. Understanding the molecular epidemiological aspects of L. monocytogenes infections of food animal species should, therefore, be the priority in this part of the country.

Keywords: antibiogram, Assam, goat, Listeria monocytogenes, polymerase chain reaction.

An immunohistochemical study of endocrine cells in the digestive tract of Varanus salvator (Reptile: Varanidae)

Research (Published online: 01-09-2020)

1. An immunohistochemical study of endocrine cells in the digestive tract of Varanus salvator (Reptile: Varanidae)

Mahfud Mahfud, Ernawati Ernawati, Nur R. Adawiyah Mahmud, Teguh Budipitojo and Hery Wijayanto

Veterinary World, 13(9): 1737-1742

ABSTRACT

Aim: The aim of the study was to identify the distribution pattern and frequency of endocrine cell types in the digestive tract of Varanus salvator.

Materials and Methods: The presence of endocrine cells (glucagon, somatostatin, and serotonin) in the digestive tract (esophagus, stomach, and intestine) was detected using the avidin-biotin complex (ABC) method.

Results: Three types of endocrine cells immunoreactive to antisera glucagon, serotonin, and somatostatin were found in the caudal portion of the small and large intestines but were not observed in the esophagus, stomach, and caput and medial sections of the small intestine. Endocrine cells distributed in the digestive tract of V. salvator vary in color intensity, from weak to sharp, in response to the primer antibody.

Conclusion: Endocrine cells in the digestive tract that is immunoreactive to glucagon, somatostatin, and serotonin are those found in the caudal portion of the small and large intestines. They are varied in distribution pattern, frequency, and color intensity.

Keywords: digestive tract, endocrine cell, immunohistochemistry, Varanus salvator.

Hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic activity of combined milk thistle and fenugreek seeds in alloxan-induced diabetic albino rats

Research (Published online: 29-08-2020)

35. Hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic activity of combined milk thistle and fenugreek seeds in alloxan-induced diabetic albino rats

Mohamed Jamal Saadh

Veterinary World, 13(8): 1732-1736

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Despite the availability of antidiabetic drugs, they are not free from associated adverse side effects. This study aimed to evaluate the hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic effects of oral administration of seeds from two medicinal plants: (1) Milk thistle and (2) fenugreek.

Materials and Methods: Plant seeds were washed in distilled water and ground with a coffee grinder. Alloxan was used to induce diabetes in 20 male albino rats. Diabetic rats were randomly divided into two groups: (1) Group 1 (n=10), diabetic rats fed with 0.5 g/kg milk thistle and 2 g/kg fenugreek seeds per day and (2) Group 2 (n=10), diabetic rats fed standard rodent food for 4 weeks.

Results: Oral administration of milk thistle and fenugreek seeds for 2 weeks resulted in significant improvement in body weight, blood glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), cholesterol, and triglyceride levels in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. After 4 weeks, this ameliorative effect was significantly elevated with respect to blood glucose (155.00±9.70 mg/ dL vs. 427.50±5.70 mg/dL; p<0.001), HbA1c (5.5±0.19% vs. 13.65±1.77%; p<0.001), cholesterol (281.50±10.95 mg/dL vs. 334.30±6.80 mg/dL; p<0.001), triglyceride (239.60±6.87 mg/dL vs. 284.20±9.95 mg/dL; p<0.01), and body weight (265.30±8.10 g vs. 207.40±11.4 g; p<0.01) as compared with non-treated diabetic rats.

Conclusion: Milk thistle and fenugreek seeds possess hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic properties and could be used as natural compounds that are suitable as parent compounds for the development of new antidiabetic drugs.

Keywords: fenugreek seeds, hypoglycemic activity, hypolipidemic activity, milk thistle seeds.

Prevalence of bovine tuberculosis in slaughtered cattle and factors associated with risk of disease transmission among cattle handlers at Oko-Oba Abattoir, Lagos, Nigeria

Research (Published online: 29-08-2020)

34. Prevalence of bovine tuberculosis in slaughtered cattle and factors associated with risk of disease transmission among cattle handlers at Oko-Oba Abattoir, Lagos, Nigeria

Musiliu Abiodun Agbalaya, Olayinka Olabisi Ishola, Hezekiah Kehinde Adesokan and Olufunmilayo Ibitola Fawole

Veterinary World, 13(8): 1725-1731

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Bovine tuberculosis (bTB) is a zoonotic disease of major public health importance, especially in many developing countries, including Nigeria, where control measures are largely not applied, and the risks of human infection are high. This study was aimed at determining the current prevalence of bTB in slaughtered cattle and identifying factors associated with the risk of disease transmission among cattle handlers toward making informed control measures to limit human-animal interface disease transmission.

Materials and Methods: Serum samples at slaughter and lesions suggestive of bTB collected during postmortem examination of 187 slaughtered cattle at the Oko–Oba Abattoir, Agege, Lagos State, Nigeria, were subjected to lateral flow and Ziehl–Neelsen (ZN) techniques, respectively. Furthermore, a structured questionnaire was interviewer-administered to 156 cattle handlers to investigate associated exposure factors to bTB infection. Data were analyzed using bivariate and multivariate logistic regression.

Results: The prevalence of bTB in cattle was 25.7% and 7.0% by lateral flow technique and ZN, respectively. The seropositivity was highest in cattle with poor body condition (50.0%), then with good (36.4%) and fair (25.0%) body conditions. The questionnaire survey revealed that being in livestock handling business for >6 years (p=0.001), not knowing the mode of transmission (p=0.02) and ignoring TB lesions at slaughter (p=0.02) were exposure factors associated with increased risk of bTB infection among the cattle handlers. Further, multivariate analysis showed that those who spent more than 6 years in livestock handling were about 4 times (Adjusted odds ratio [AOR]=3.5; 95% confidence interval [CI]=1.1-7.6, p=0.01) more likely to be exposed to bTB infection than those with lesser years. Again, respondents who called the attention of meat inspectors on seeing lesions in animals were about 4 times less likely to be exposed to bTB infection than those who ignored it (AOR=0.3; CI=0.1-0.8, p=0.01).

Conclusion: This study has reiterated the endemicity of bTB in cattle population in Nigeria, with the prevalence of 25.7% and 7.0% of bTB by lateral flow and ZN techniques, respectively. This portends potential risk for disease transmission at the human-animal interface, particularly at the abattoir setting. The study also identified important knowledge and practice gaps which would enable informed, all-inclusive, and well-directed programs for effective control of the disease in both human and cattle populations.

Keywords: abattoir, bovine tuberculosis, cattle handlers, prevalence, public health.

Humoral responses to Schistosoma japonicum soluble egg antigens in domestic animals in Lindu Subdistrict, Central Sulawesi Province, Indonesia

Research (Published online: 29-08-2020)

2. Humoral responses to Schistosoma japonicum soluble egg antigens in domestic animals in Lindu Subdistrict, Central Sulawesi Province, Indonesia

Novericko Ginger Budiono, Sri Murtini, Fadjar Satrija, Yusuf Ridwan and Ekowati Handharyani

International Journal of One Health, 6(2): 99-108

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Schistosomiasis japonica, a disease caused by Schistosoma japonicum, is a public health problem in the Philippines, the Republic of Indonesia, and the People's Republic of China. The disease is known as zoonotic, meaning other than humans, animals are involved as the reservoirs. In Indonesia, schistosomiasis surveillance in animals is not continuous. Thus, the study to determine the prevalence of the disease in animals is needed. The study was aimed to determine the seroprevalence of S. japonicum infection among four species of domestic animals in the Lindu Sub-district, Central Sulawesi Province of Indonesia.

Materials and Methods: Blood samples of domestic animals were collected and analyzed for the presence of anti-S. japonicum immunoglobulin G antibodies against S. japonicum soluble egg antigens using the indirect hemagglutination assay. Animal stool samples were collected, and the miracidia-hatching assay was used for the detection of S. japonicum infection. Additional data concerning the animal identity and the management practices were obtained through a questionnaire used in surveys and interviews.

Results: A total of 146 sera from 13 cattle, 24 buffaloes, 54 pigs, and 55 dogs were collected. The overall schistosomiasis seroprevalence was 64.4%. The serology prevalence in cattle, buffalo, pig, and dog was 100.0%, 41.7%, 74.1%, and 56.4%, respectively. Domestic animals in all of five villages have previous exposure with S. japonicum as seropositive animals detected in every village. A total of 104 animal stool samples from 146 animals sampled were obtained. The overall schistosomiasis prevalence determined by the miracidia hatching assay was 16.35%. The sensitivity and specificity of indirect hemagglutination assay (IHA) in the current study were 88.24% and 41.37%, respectively, with miracidia hatching assay as the gold-standard method.

Conclusion: This study has shown a high seroprevalence of schistosomiasis japonica among domestic animals in the Lindu Subdistrict. IHA can be used as the screening method for the detection of S. japonicum infection in domestic animals. Chemotherapy and animal livestock grazing management programs to reduce the parasite burden and Schistosoma egg contamination in the environment must be implemented as part of one health approaches, in addition to other control measures.

Keywords: Indonesia, one health, schistosomiasis japonica, seroprevalence, zoonotic parasitic disease.

Development of a coagglutination kit as a rapid test for diagnosing Newcastle disease in poultry

Research (Published online: 28-08-2020)

33. Development of a coagglutination kit as a rapid test for diagnosing Newcastle disease in poultry

Muhammad Kholish Naf'an, Kurniasih Kurniasih, Tri Untari and Yos Adi Prakoso

Veterinary World, 13(8): 1719-1724

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Newcastle disease (ND) is a viral infection that causes high mortality and economic loss in the poultry industry. The Office International des Epizooties (OIE) recommends several diagnostic methods for the detection of ND, including isolation and molecular tests. However, these detection methods are time-consuming and highly expensive. Therefore, this study was conducted to develop a coagglutination kit as a novel diagnostic tool for ND in the poultry industry.

Materials and Methods: Two adult male New Zealand White rabbits weighing 2.5 kg were vaccinated using ND life vaccine intraperitoneally. The vaccination was conducted once a week for 4 weeks with multilevel doses. Rabbits' serum was collected at week 6 and inactivated at 56°C for 30 min. The serum was precipitated using ammonium sulfate and reacted with protein A of Staphylococcus aureus to produce the agglutination kit for detecting ND virus. A total of 25 chickens suspected with ND infection from a local poultry farm in Yogyakarta were used as the test samples. The chickens were necropsied, and the brain, spleen, lung, intestine, and feces were collected. Half of these organs were subjected to tests using the coagglutination kit and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The other half was processed for histopathology. Data were analyzed qualitatively.

Results: Of the 25 samples, 13 (52%) were positive for ND infection when tested using both the ND coagglutination kit and RT-PCR. The positive samples also exhibited several histopathological changes, including perivascular cuffing surrounding the cerebral blood-brain barrier, hemorrhagic pneumonia, splenitis, and necrotic hemorrhage enteritis.

Conclusion: This study confirmed that the ND coagglutination kit could be used as a novel diagnostic tool for the detection of ND virus infection in the poultry industry.

Keywords: coagglutination kit, histopatology, Newcastle disease, rapid test, reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction.

Genetic and non-genetic factors affecting semen production and quality characteristics of Gir cattle breed under semi-arid climate

Research (Published online: 27-08-2020)

32. Genetic and non-genetic factors affecting semen production and quality characteristics of Gir cattle breed under semi-arid climate

K. G. Bhave, K. Thilak Pon Jawahar, P. Kumarasamy, T. Sivakumar, C. Joseph, T. Shirsath, P. Deshmukh and R. Venkataramanan

Veterinary World, 13(8): 1714-1718

ABSTRACT

Aim: This study aims to evaluate genetic and non-genetic factors influencing semen production potential of Gir bulls.

Materials and Methods: Data on semen quantity (n=6911) and quality (n=466) available from January 2011 to December 2018 at BAIF's frozen semen station, Jind, Haryana, India, were utilized for the study. Factors, namely, season of collection, age at collection, and bull (random effect) were studied for their effect on quantitative and qualitative semen traits. Least square means for the traits were obtained using a general linear model. The effect of age within bull for repeatable traits was analyzed using a longitudinal model with age as the control variable. Multivariate analysis using mixed repeatability model equation was utilized to estimate bull effect correlation (genetic + permanent environmental correlation), phenotypic correlations, and repeatability.

Results: The overall least square means of ejaculate volume, sperm concentration, total sperms, initial and post-thaw motility, hypo-osmotic swelling test, and acrosome integrity of frozen semen were 6.62±0.03 ml, 1.22±0.01 109/ml, 8.09±0.05 109/ml ejaculate, 75.78±0.001%, 55.92±0.0001%, 55.13±0.005%, and 71.08±0.001%, respectively. The season of the collection showed a significant effect on volume, concentration, total sperm, and initial motility. The performance of bulls was superior in summer season, followed by winter and monsoon. Increase in semen attributes during summer season was due to the effect of lower temperature on sensitive stages of spermatogenesis. Age at collection had a significant effect on all semen traits. Volume and total sperm count showed increasing trend while concentration showed a decreasing trend with an increase in age. Motility and quality traits did not show any particular pattern. Individual bulls showed differences in all the semen performance traits with age. The repeatability of the traits ranged from 0.04 (HOST) to 0.58 (acrosome integrity). Bull effect correlation ranged from –0.73 (initial motility and acrosome integrity) to 0.93 (HOST and acrosome integrity).

Conclusion: Individual bulls showed variation in traits measured over age. The result of the study could be utilized in suggesting suitable management plans to achieve the desired profit by improving semen quality in Gir bulls.

Keywords: Gir, longitudinal analysis, repeatability, bull effect, and semen production.

Relationship between somatic cell counts and subclinical mastitis in lactating dairy cows

Research (Published online: 27-08-2020)

31. Relationship between somatic cell counts and subclinical mastitis in lactating dairy cows

S. M. Mostafizur Rahaman Sumon, Mst. Sonia Parvin, Md. Amimul Ehsan and Md. Taohidul Islam

Veterinary World, 13(8): 1709-1713

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Subclinical mastitis (SCM) is one of the most prevalent diseases of dairy cows, and somatic cell count (SCC) is widely used to determine SCM and milk quality. However, setting the threshold of SCC is very important. This study aimed to determine the cow-level threshold of SCC to differentiate milk of SCM affected cows from normal milk in Bangladesh.

Materials and Methods: Sensitivity (Se) and specificity (Sp) along with other characteristics of different thresholds of SCC were determined considering the bacterial culture as the gold standard test. Three definitions of intramammary infection (IMI) were set based on the group of pathogens involved. Five categories of SCC thresholds were considered for analysis.

Results: Se and Sp of thresholds of SCC greatly varied as definitions of IMI changed. Irrespective of SCC thresholds, Se increased when isolation of major pathogens included in IMI definitions. Se decreased when SCC thresholds increased (from 100 to 300 × 103 cells/mL) for all IMI definitions and ranged from 60.6% to 20.3%. The highest Se was found at low SCC threshold (100 × 103 cells/mL), which resulted in less false-negative outcome. On the other hand, Sp increased with the increment of SCC thresholds giving rise to a less false-positive outcome.

Conclusion: The cow-level SCC threshold of 100 × 103 cells/mL was found appropriate to identify subclinical IMI of dairy cows.

Keywords: Bangladesh, bovine mastitis, intramammary infection, somatic cell count threshold, sensitivity, specificity.

Unique patterns of cardiogenic and fibrotic gene expression in rat cardiac fibroblasts

Research (Published online: 26-08-2020)

30. Unique patterns of cardiogenic and fibrotic gene expression in rat cardiac fibroblasts

Kittipong Tachampa and Tuempong Wongtawan

Veterinary World, 13(8): 1697-1708

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Cardiac fibroblasts are important for both normal and pathological states of the heart, but the knowledge in cell physiology and genomics is still poorly understood. The aims of the present study were; first, to investigate the expression of cardiac and fibrotic genes in rat cardiac fibroblasts compared to cardiomyocytes and other fibroblasts (skin and muscle fibroblasts), second, to examine the in vitro effect of serum concentration on fibroblast gene expression. The findings can potentially be applied in ischemia/reperfusion models.

Materials and Methods: Rat cardiac fibroblasts were collected and cultured in different conditions, and their gene expression (21 cardiogenic genes and 16 fibrotic genes) was compared with cardiomyocytes and other fibroblasts using comparative quantitative polymerase chain reaction. We also mimicked myocardial ischemia/reperfusion by depleting and then adding a serum into the culture in conventional culture (10% serum).

Results: Cardiac fibroblasts expressed most of the cardiogenic genes, but their expression levels were significantly lower than in cardiomyocytes, while almost all fibrotic genes in the cardiac fibroblasts were significantly more highly expressed than in cardiomyocytes, except matrix metallopeptidase 9 (Mmp9) which also had greater expression in other fibroblasts. After mimicking cardiac ischemia and reperfusion in vitro by starving and then adding a serum into the cardiac fibroblast culture, the results revealed that Mmp9 expression was significantly increased (>30 times) after increasing but not reducing the serum in the culture. The expression of most cardiogenic and fibrotic genes in cardiac fibroblasts tended to decrease after increasing the serum in the culture. These changes were specific to cardiac fibroblasts but no other fibroblasts.

Conclusion: Cardiac fibroblasts have a distinct pattern of gene expression from other fibroblasts and cardiomyocytes. They are also sensitive to high serum concentration but not affected by serum depletion, suggesting that the process of developing cardiac fibrosis might be stimulated by reperfusion or overcirculation rather than ischemia. The cell starvation followed the adding of serum may serve as a useful model to study cardiac fibrosis cause by the change of blood flow.

Keywords: cardiac fibroblasts, cardiomyocytes, gene expression, in vitro model, ischemia, reperfusion.

Applications, challenges, and strategies in the use of nanoparticles as feed additives in equine nutrition

Review (Published online: 26-08-2020)

29. Applications, challenges, and strategies in the use of nanoparticles as feed additives in equine nutrition

P. Ravi Kanth Reddy, Duvvuru Yasaswini, P. Pandu Ranga Reddy, Mohamed Zeineldin, M. J. Adegbeye and Iqbal Hyder

Veterinary World, 13(8): 1685-1696

ABSTRACT

The rapid expansion of nanotechnology has been transforming the food industry by increasing market share and expenditure. Although nanotechnology offers promising benefits as feed additives, their usage in equines is primarily geared toward immunotherapy, hyper-immunization techniques, drug delivery systems, grooming activities, and therapeutic purposes. Nanoparticles could be engaged as alternatives for antibiotic feed additives to prevent foal diarrhea. Gold nanoparticles are proved to provide beneficial effects for racehorses by healing joint and tendon injuries. Because of the poor bioavailability of micro-sized mineral salts, the usage of nano-minerals is highly encourageable to improve the performance of racehorses. Nano-Vitamin E and enzyme CoQ10 for equines are no longer a simple research topic because of the increased commercial availability. Employing nanotechnology-based preservatives may offer a promising alternative to other conventional preservatives in preserving the quality of equine feed items, even during an extended storage period. While nanoparticles as feed additives may provide multitudinous benefits on equines, they could elicit allergic or toxic responses in case of improper synthesis aids or inappropriate dosages. The safety of nano-feed additives remains uninvestigated and necessitates the additional risk assessment, especially during their usage for a prolonged period. To adopt nano-feed additives in horses, there is an extreme paucity of information regarding the validity of various levels or forms of nanoparticles. Further, the currently available toxicological database on the topic of nano-feed additives is not at all related to equines and even inadequate for other livestock species. This review aims to provide new insights into possible future research pertaining to the usage of nano-feed additives in equines.

Keywords: antimicrobial, drug delivery, equine nutrition, feed additives, nano-minerals, nanoparticles.