Impact of COVID-19 and associated lockdown on livestock and poultry sectors in India

Review (Published online: 21-09-2020)

25. Impact of COVID-19 and associated lockdown on livestock and poultry sectors in India

Jyotsnarani Biswal, Kennady Vijayalakshmy and Habibar Rahman

Veterinary World, 13(9): 1928-1933

ABSTRACT

The COVID-19 pandemic and the associated lockdown for a long period have created a significant adverse impact on different sectors, including that of the agriculture and other allied sub-sectors in India and several other countries. The present review aimed to depict the impact of this pandemic and the lockdown on the livestock and poultry sectors in the country, which has been one of the fastest-growing sectors in recent years. Inadequacy of country-wide information has been a major bottleneck for having a thorough understanding of the impact of the prolonged lockdown on different sub-sectors of livestock and poultry. In the present case, an in-depth analysis of the subject has been made through the collation of available published materials and information collected through public contacts. The pandemic and the associated lockdown has not only caused enormous distress to the millions of poor and marginal farmers for saving their crops and/or livestock and thereby assuring their livelihoods but also impacted the overall poultry, dairy, and other livestock production systems and associated value chains, nutrition and health care, and labor availability. The paper highlights various dimensions of the impacts, namely, reduction in demand of different commodities, wastage of the produce due to the closure of transport and market chains, distress sale of the produce, and labor shortage and revival strategies taken by the government and associated enterprises. The present impact study although gives a picture about the overall present scenario, a systematic study through the collection of primary data from all over the country is suggested, which will provide a holistic view of the impact on each of the sub-sectors and the associated value chains.

Keywords: COVID-19, labor availability, livestock sector, poultry sector, value chain.

Novel probiotic lactic acid bacteria isolated from indigenous fermented foods from West Sumatera, Indonesia

Research (Published online: 19-09-2020)

24. Novel probiotic lactic acid bacteria isolated from indigenous fermented foods from West Sumatera, Indonesia

Harnentis Harnentis, Yetti Marlida, Yuliaty Shafan Nur, Wizna Wizna, Melia Afnida Santi, Nadia Septiani, Frederick Adzitey and Nurul Huda

Veterinary World, 13(9): 1922-1927

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Probiotics play an important role in maintaining a healthy gut and consequently promote good health. This study aimed to find novel probiotic lactic acid bacteria (LAB) from indigenous fermented foods of West Sumatera, Indonesia.

Materials and Methods: This study utilized 10 LAB previously isolated from fermented buffalo milk (dadih), fermented fish (budu), and fermented cassava (tape) which have the ability to produce gamma-aminobutyric acid. The study commenced with the screening of LAB for certain properties, such as resistance to acid and bile salts, adhesion to mucosal surface, and antagonism against enteric pathogens (Escherichia coli, Salmonella Enteritidis, and Staphylococcus aureus). The promising isolates were identified through biochemical and gram staining methods.

Results: All isolates in this study were potential novel probiotics. They survived at a pH level of 2.5 for 3 h (55.27-98.18%) and 6 h (50.98-84.91%). Survival in bile at a concentration of 0.3% was 39.90-58.61% and the survival rate was 28.38- 52.11% at a concentration of 0.5%. The inhibitory diameter ranged from 8.75 to 11.54 mm for E. coli, 7.02 to 13.42 mm for S. aureus, and 12.49 to 19.00 mm for S. Enteritidis. All the isolates (84.5-92%) exhibited the ability to adhere to mucosal surfaces. This study revealed that all the isolates were potential probiotics but N16 proved to be superior because it was viable at a pH level of 2 (84.91%) and it had a good survival rate in bile salts assay (55.07%). This isolate was identified as Lactobacillus spp., Gram-positive bacilli bacteria, and tested negative in both the catalase and oxidase tests.

Conclusion: All the isolates in this study may be used as probiotics, with isolate N16 (Lactobacillus spp.) as the most promising novel probiotic for poultry applications based on its ability to inhibit pathogenic bacteria.

Keywords: fermentation, lactic acid bacteria, poultry, probiotic.

Development of a practical framework for sustainable surveillance and control of ticks and tick-borne diseases in Africa

Meeting Report (Published online: 19-09-2020)

23. Development of a practical framework for sustainable surveillance and control of ticks and tick-borne diseases in Africa

Felix Nchu, Nkululeko Nyangiwe, Dennis Muhanguzi, Jahashi Nzalawahe, Yakob Petro Nagagi, George Msalya, Natala Audu Joseph, Esther Gwae Kimaro, Margaret Mollel, Violet Temba and Difo Voukang Harouna

Veterinary World, 13(9): 1910-1921

ABSTRACT

A workshop on ticks and tick-borne diseases (T&TBDs) was held on June 25 and 26, 2019, at the Tropical Pesticides Research Institute, Division of Livestock and Human Diseases Vector Control, Arusha, Tanzania. The objectives of the workshop were to discuss the current situation and to formulate actionable strategies to improve surveillance and control of T&TBDs in Africa. The workshop was funded by the National Research Foundation and the Cape Peninsula University of Technology and attended by livestock health providers, farmers, and researchers from East, West, and Southern African countries. During the workshop, experts presented recent surveillance data focused on T&TBDs; participants discussed research opportunities and community engagement. The primary outcome of the workshop was the creation of a new research consortium known as The African Consortium for T&TBDs. The consortium is intended to function as a community for researchers, students, farmers, policymakers, extension workers, and community members who are interested in the advancement of T&TBD control. The consortium will engage in research activities that focus on comprehensive surveillance of T&TBDs, developing tick acaricide resistance, alternative tick control programs, and policy development and education. These areas were identified as top priorities to be developed to improve T&TBD control on the continent.

Keywords: Africa, consortium, ticks, tick-borne diseases.

Effects of hydrolyzed yeast supplementation on growth performance, immunity, antioxidant capacity, and microbial shedding in weaning pigs

Research (Published online: 18-09-2020)

22. Effects of hydrolyzed yeast supplementation on growth performance, immunity, antioxidant capacity, and microbial shedding in weaning pigs

Waewaree Boontiam, Chalong Wachirapakorn and Phreerapong Phaengphairee

Veterinary World, 13(9): 1902-1909

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Weaning pigs normally suffer from many stressors which have impaired growth performance and immunity. Hydrolyzed yeast has been proposed as an alternative feed additive. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of various levels of hydrolyzed yeast (HY) supplementation in the feed of weaning pigs on growth performance, diarrhea incidence, immunity, antioxidant capacity, and microbial populations.

Materials and Methods: A total of 144 crossbred weaning pigs (Duroc × Landrace × Large White) with a mean body weight (BW) of 7.46 kg were randomly assigned to one of four treatments during a 5-week feeding trial. Treatments consisted of a basal diet without HY inclusion (control), or the basal diet supplemented with HY at 0.5, 1.0, and 1.5 g/kg of diet, respectively.

Results: Piglets fed with 1.0 or 1.5 g/kg HY presented significantly increased BW (p=0.009) and decreased incidence of diarrhea (p=0.001). The final BW (p=0.012), average daily gain (p=0.094), and average daily feed intake (p=0.091) showed a linear improvement with the level of HY inclusion. However, the gain-to-feed ratio was unaffected by dietary treatments. Linear responses to the HY supplementation levels were also observed for blood urea nitrogen (p=0.030), total protein (p=0.017), lymphocyte percentage (p=0.064), catalase activity (p=0.089), malondialdehyde (MDA) level (p=0.001), Salmonella spp. (p=0.024), Escherichia coli (p=0.021), and Lactobacillus spp. (p=0.048). Dietary inclusion of HY at 1.0 and 1.5 g/kg resulted in increased immunoglobulin A and G secretions (p=0.042 and p=0.022, respectively) and decreased MDA concentration (p<0.01) and Salmonella spp. (p=0.026) and E. coli (p=0.050).

Conclusion: It was concluded that HY inclusion at 1.0 and 1.5 g/kg in the diet of weaning pigs improve BW, immunoglobulin secretion, and antioxidant enzyme activity, whereas it lowers diarrhea occurrence, lipid peroxidation, and pathogenic bacteria in weaning pigs.

Keywords: antioxidant capacity, growth performance, hydrolyzed yeast, immunity, weaning pigs.

First report of PCR-based detection of Helicobacter species DNA in Camelus dromedarius in Egypt

Research (Published online: 17-09-2020)

21. First report of PCR-based detection of Helicobacter species DNA in Camelus dromedarius in Egypt

Ahmed Youssef, Ahmed Afifi, Ayman Hamed and Mohamed Enany

Veterinary World, 13(9): 1898-1901

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Helicobacter species infections have epidemiological and zoonotic impacts, and different species of Helicobacter have been implicated in infecting humans and animals. The aim of this study was to investigate Helicobacter species infections in Camelus dromedarius.

Materials and Methods: Fecal samples were collected from 32 camels from 9 camel farms located at Ismailia Governorate, Egypt. The collected samples were investigated by bacteriological isolation and conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays targeting the 16S ribosomal RNA gene.

Results: Although Helicobacter species could not be isolated from all the examined samples, Helicobacter DNA was detected in 2 (22.22%) of the 9 camel farms. Of the 32 camel fecal samples examined, 4 (12.5%) were positive for Helicobacter species as analyzed by the PCR assay.

Conclusion: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of PCR-based detection of Helicobacter species infections in C. dromedarius. Further epidemiological studies are required to clarify Helicobacter species infections in camels.

Keywords: Camelus dromedarius, Helicobacter, Non-pylori, polymerase chain reaction.

Statistical distribution of novel coronavirus in Iran

Research (Published online: 17-09-2020)

8. Statistical distribution of novel coronavirus in Iran

Elham Gholami, Kamyar Mansori and Mojtaba Soltani-Kermanshahi

International Journal of One Health, 6(2): 143-146

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: The coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic – novel coronavirus (nCoV) spread worldwide in 2019, and by March 27, 2020, 199 countries, including Iran, were affected. Prevention and control of the infection is the most important public health priority today. The behavior prediction of COVID-19 is a significant problem. Therefore, in the present research, we compared the different distribution of COVID-19 cases based on the daily reported data in Iran.

Materials and Methods: In this research, we compared the different distribution of COVID-19 cases based on the daily reported data in Iran. We focused on 36 initial data on deaths and new cases with confirmed 2019-nCoV infection in Iran based on official reports from governmental institutes. We used the three types of continuous distribution known as Normal, Lognormal, and Weibull.

Results: Our study showed that the Weibull distribution was the best fit to the data. However, the parameters of distribution were different between data on new cases and daily deaths.

Conclusion: According to the mean and median of the best-fitted distribution, we can expect to pass the peak of the disease. In other words, the death rate is decreasing. Similar behaviors of COVID-19 in both Iran and China, in the long run, can be seen.

Keywords: coronavirus disease-2019, distribution, infection, Weibull.

Prevalence and antibiotic resistance of Campylobacter coli isolated from broiler farms in the Marrakesh Safi region, Morocco

Research (Published online: 16-09-2020)

20. Prevalence and antibiotic resistance of Campylobacter coli isolated from broiler farms in the Marrakesh Safi region, Morocco

Raja Asmai, Bouchra Karraouan, Khadija Es-Soucratti, Houda En-Nassiri, Brahim Bouchrif, Hakim Karib and Réda Triqui

Veterinary World, 13(9): 1892-1897

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Campylobacteriosis is a common foodborne disease epidemiologically linked to the consumption of poultry products. However, other sources, such as raw or contaminated milk, contaminated water or ice, contact with infected livestock, and pets, are reported. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence and resistance to microbial resistance of Campylobacter coliM in broiler farms in the region of Marrakesh Safi, Morocco.

Materials and Methods: The study was conducted between May and December 2017 and involved 35 broiler farms. One hundred and five cloacal swabs were collected from the eight provinces in the region of Marrakesh Safi, Morocco. Bacteriology method NM ISO/TS 10272-3: 2013 was used to isolate and identify Campylobacter spp. Molecular identification (polymerase chain reaction) was used for confirmation. A disk diffusion method on Mueller-Hinton agar was used for susceptibility testing. Five antibiotic agents, including first-line drugs, were evaluated.

Results: Among 105 samples, 71.4% (75/105) were positive for Campylobacter spp. test and 56% (42/75) of isolates belonged to the species coli. Susceptibility profiles showed that 95.2% of C. coli strains were resistant to ampicillin, 92.8% to erythromycin and tetracycline, 85.7% to ciprofloxacin, and 7.1% to gentamicin.

Conclusion: This study underlines the need to strengthen implementation of specific control procedures to decrease contamination of poultry meat with Campylobacter spp. and to reduce the use of antibiotics in the poultry sector.

Keywords: Campylobacter coli, microbial resistance, Morocco poultry, prevalence

Molecular diagnosis and biochemical studies of tick-borne diseases (anaplasmosis and babesiosis) in Aberdeen Angus Cattle in New Valley, Egypt

Research (Published online: 16-09-2020)

19. Molecular diagnosis and biochemical studies of tick-borne diseases (anaplasmosis and babesiosis) in Aberdeen Angus Cattle in New Valley, Egypt

Nani Nasreldin, Rania M. Ewida, Hatem Hamdon and Yasser F. Elnaker

Veterinary World, 13(9): 1884-1891

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Anaplasmosis and babesiosis are tick-borne diseases that threaten livestock production with subsequent considerable economic losses. This study was conducted to diagnose Anaplasma and Babesia infection using molecular techniques in imported Aberdeen Angus cattle imported from Uruguay to El-Kharga Oasis in New Valley, Egypt, and to investigate the effects of disease on some serum biochemical and oxidative stress parameters.

Materials and Methods: Blood samples were collected from 31 cattle, 21 diseased and ten apparently normal, of varying ages and sex. The blood was used for the preparation of blood smears, polymerase chain reaction assay, and separation of serum for biochemical investigation. The experimental production farm at the Faculty of Agriculture, New Valley University, was infested with ticks and variable clinical manifestations during the period from December 2017 to March 2018. One calf died of a suspected blood parasite infection.

Results: The blood film examination revealed infection by blood parasites in 21 samples. Anaplasma marginale and Babesia bovis were identified in 12 and 14 samples, respectively. A total of 14 samples were examined by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to make these identifications. Biochemical parameters showed significantly elevated serum alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, total bilirubin (T. Bil), and urea in blood from parasite-infected female cattle and male calves compared with controls. Increased serum total protein, globulin, and creatinine were recorded only in infected female cattle. The blood glucose level was significantly decreased in infected female cattle and male calves compared with controls. Furthermore, albumin and albumin/globulin ratio was significantly reduced in the infected female cattle. Oxidative stress profiles of infected animals showed a significant increase in serum nitric oxide and malondialdehyde, and both total antioxidant capacity and reduced glutathione (GSH) were significantly reduced in comparison with control animals.

Conclusion: The incidence of A. marginale and B. bovis infection is high in imported Aberdeen Angus cattle in New Valley Province. PCR methods provide a short-term assessment of disease. An extensive epidemiological survey, employing serology together with molecular genetic methods, monitoring of abundance and distribution of tick vectors, availability of vaccination programs, and tracking of animal transport is also needed for control of blood parasites.

Keywords: Aberdeen Angus cattle, Anaplasma marginal, Babesia bovis, oxidative stress.

Coresistance to quaternary ammonium compounds in extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing Escherichia coli

Research (Published online: 15-09-2020)

7. Coresistance to quaternary ammonium compounds in extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing Escherichia coli

Susanne Sütterlin, Anna Heydecke and Eva Tano

International Journal of One Health, 6(2): 134-142

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBL) in Escherichia coli constitutes one of the major threats to modern medicine, and the increasing pollution with quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs) has been suspected to contribute to the spread of ESBL-producing bacteria. The aim of the study was to investigate ESBLA and ESBLM-C-producing E. coli isolates for their coresistance to QACs and their phylogeny isolated from a Swedish University Hospital.

Materials and Methods: Coresistance in E. coli with production of ESBL enzymes of the type blaCTX-M (n=23) was compared to E. coli producing AmpC type ESBL enzymes blaCMY and blaDHA (n=27). All isolates were tested for susceptibility to antibiotics and QACs, and high-quality whole-genome sequences were analyzed for resistance determinants.

Results: The plasmid-borne small multidrug resistance (SMR) efflux pump sugE(p) was solely present in blaCMY-producing E. coli (n=9), within the same genetic environment blaCMY–blc–sugE(p). Other small multidrug efflux pumps were found without association for ESBL-types: emrE (n=5) and the truncated qacEΔ1 (n=18).

Conclusion: Coresistance of ESBL enzymes and SMR efflux pumps in E. coli was common and might indicate that other substances than antibiotics contribute to the spread and emergence of antibiotic resistance.

Keywords: biocides, Escherichia coli, extended-spectrum β-lactamases, quaternary ammonium compounds.

Identification and differentiation of Campylobacter isolated from chicken meat using real-time polymerase chain reaction and high resolution melting analysis of hipO and glyA genes

Research (Published online: 15-09-2020)

18. Identification and differentiation of Campylobacter isolated from chicken meat using real-time polymerase chain reaction and high resolution melting analysis of hipO and glyA genes

Ika Kartika Syarifah, Hadri Latif, Chaerul Basri and Puji Rahayu

Veterinary World, 13(9): 1875-1883

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Campylobacter species have been recognized as the most frequently identified bacterial cause of human gastroenteritis. The aims of this study were to identify Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli species isolated from chicken meat and to analyze the differences in the melting curve patterns of both species.

Materials and Methods: A total of 105 chicken meat samples collected from slaughterhouses and retailers in six provinces in Indonesia were examined for the isolation and identification of Campylobacter spp. A total of 56 positive isolates of Campylobacter spp. were analyzed using the quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and high resolution melting method.

Results: The prevalence of Campylobacter spp. in chicken meat was found to be 61.9%. Regarding the identification, 23 isolates (41.07%) were C. jejuni, 22 (39.29%) were C. coli, six (10.71%) were a mix between C. jejuni and C. coli, and five isolates (8.93%) were Campylobacter spp. All the C. jejuni and C. coli isolates produced varied melting curve patterns.

Conclusion: The high prevalence of C. jejuni and C. coli in chicken meat in Indonesia indicates a high risk of the incidence of campylobacteriosis in humans.

Keywords: Campylobacter coli, Campylobacter jejuni, chicken meat, glyA, hipO, melting curves.

Chronic unpredictable stress-induced inflammation and quantitative analysis of neurons of distinct brain regions in Wistar rat model of comorbid depression

Research (Published online: 15-09-2020)

17. Chronic unpredictable stress-induced inflammation and quantitative analysis of neurons of distinct brain regions in Wistar rat model of comorbid depression

Vandana Blossom, Megha Gokul, Nayanatara Arun Kumar, Rekha D. Kini, Shyamala Nayak and K. Bhagyalakshmi

Veterinary World, 13(9): 1870-1874

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Depression and anxiety are the most prominent neuropsychiatric disease and have been considered as the most burdensome diseases of society. The hippocampus and prefrontal cortex have a prominent role in stress-induced neurological disorders. Chronic unpredictable stress exposed rats are a perfect model in understanding comorbid depression and anxiety disorders. The inflammatory response occurring in the body has been linked to C-reactive protein (CRP) in many diseased conditions. The present research primarily focus on the possible correlation of Cortisol, CRP level and neuronal assay in different regions of hippocampus, dentate gyrus (DG), and prefrontal cortex.

Materials and Methods: The control group of rats (n=6) was not exposed to any stress. Whereas, the experimental stress group (n=6) of rats was exposed to various stressors for 15 days. After the experimentation procedures, the blood samples were collected and brain dissection was done. The neurons in the prefrontal cortex, the DG along with various hippocampal regions was counted. Statistical analysis was performed using student's t-test and p<0.05 was expressed as statistically significant.

Results: Animals exposed to chronic unpredictable stressors showed a significant (p<0.0001) decrease in the neuronal count in prefrontal cortex and hippocampus. A significant rise in the serum cortisol (p<0.0001) and CRP (p<0.001) was witnessed in the stressed group.

Conclusion: Our results demonstrate that chronic unpredictable stress exposure has affected neurogenesis in prefrontal cortex and hippocampal regions. Decreased neurogenesis was well in coordinance with the increase in cortisol and CRP. The chronic unpredictable stress-induced inflammatory response correlated to various brain regions might provoke insights into a variety of new drugs targeting neurogenesis.

Keywords: anxiety, C reactive protein, cortisol, depression, neuronal count, rat model, stress.

Effects of Sauropus androgynus extract and its combination with ampicillin against Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus: An in vitro study

Research (Published online: 14-09-2020)

6. Effects of Sauropus androgynus extract and its combination with ampicillin against Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus: An in vitro study

Asih Rahayu, Chylen Setiyo Rini, Yos Adi Prakoso, Bagus Uda Palgunadi and Muhammad Aris Munandar

International Journal of One Health, 6(2): 128-133

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: The massive utilization of antibiotics has increased resistant genes produced by bacteria. Many bacteria, including Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), have become resistant against ampicillin (AMP). The combination of an herbal extract with AMP is expected to generate synergistic effects and may restore the susceptibility of MRSA against AMP. This study aimed to analyze the potency of Sauropus androgynous extract (SAE) as a single extract and combination with AMP against MRSA.

Materials and Methods: Sauropus androgynous was extracted using 60% ethanol. SAE biochemical compounds were analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively. SAE, AMP, and SAE+AMP were tested against MRSA isolates to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration and fractional inhibitory concentration. The inhibition of penicillin-binding proteins 2a (PBP2a) was analyzed using a latex agglutination test. Further, the disruptive membrane effects of SAE, AMP, and SAE+AMP were analyzed using a scanning electron microscope. The analysis of data was conducted using SPSS version 16 with p=0.01.

Results: SAE contained bioactive compounds such as phenolics and flavonoids. Further, 2 mg/mL of SAE could be used as the potential concentration against MRSA isolates in vitro. In addition, the utilization of SAE+AMP generated synergistic effects, restored the susceptibility of isolates against AMP, decreased the synthesis of PBP2a by the MRSA, and induced ultrastructural changes in the bacterial membrane.

Conclusion: This study indicated that the utilization of SAE potentially inhibits the growth of MRSA through decreasing of PBP2a expression, disruption of the MRSA membrane, while the combination of SAE+AMP showed synergistic effects against MRSA.

Keywords: ampicillin, herbal extract, Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, Sauropus androgynus, ultrastructure.

Leukocyte populations and their cell adhesion molecules expression in newborn dromedary camel calves

Research (Published online: 12-09-2020)

16. Leukocyte populations and their cell adhesion molecules expression in newborn dromedary camel calves

Muaadh M. Gaashan, Abdullah I. A. Al-Mubarak and Jamal Hussen

Veterinary World, 13(9): 1863-1869

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Different properties of the newborn immune system have been characterized in many species. For the newborn camel calf, however, the phenotype and composition of blood leukocytes have so far not been evaluated. The current study aimed to analyze the distribution of leukocyte subpopulations and their expression pattern of cell adhesion molecules in newborn and adult dromedary camels.

Materials and Methods: Blood samples were collected from 17 newborn camel calves and 32 adult camels. For each sample, total leukocytes were separated and analyzed for their composition and cell adhesion molecules expression by flow cytometry.

Results: In comparison to adult camels, newborn camel calves had higher leukocyte numbers and higher numbers of neutrophils, monocytes, and lymphocytes but lower numbers of eosinophils in their blood. Among the lymphocyte populations in calves, the fractions of B cells and γδ T cells were elevated when compared to adults, whereas CD4-positive T cells were reduced. The comparison between camel calves and adult camels revealed significantly lower expression of the cell adhesion molecules CD11a, CD11b, and CD18 on granulocytes, monocytes, and lymphocytes in calves.

Conclusion: Newborn camel calves show a distinct composition and phenotype pattern of blood leukocytes when compared to adult camels. The observed rise in many leukocyte populations in calf blood may be due to reduced migratory activity in calf leukocyte populations.

Keywords: adhesion molecules, flow cytometry, immunophenotype, leukocytes, newborn camel calf.

Individual and combined anti-trypanosomal effects of arteether and diminazene aceturate in the treatment of experimental Trypanosoma brucei brucei infection in rats

Research (Published online: 11-09-2020)

15. Individual and combined anti-trypanosomal effects of arteether and diminazene aceturate in the treatment of experimental Trypanosoma brucei brucei infection in rats

Tobias Nnia Egbe-Nwiyi, Samson Eneojo Abalaka, Nuhu Abdulazeez Sani, Oremeyi Zainab Tenuche and Idoko Sunday Idoko

Veterinary World, 13(9): 1858-1862

ABSTRACT

Aim: Trypanosomosis is a vital protozoan disease of man and animals with devastating consequences in the tropical parts of the world, necessitating the investigation of the effects of diminazene aceturate (DA) and arteether (AR) on Trypanosoma brucei brucei experimental infection in rats.

Materials and Methods: We used a total of 98 rats, which were divided into 14 groups (A-N) of seven rats each over 36 days after acclimatizing them. We administered 1×106 trypanosomes to the infected groups (B-N) with Group A as the unexposed control rats. Groups C-F became the infected and treated rats with 3.5 mg/kg, 7.0 mg/kg, 10.5 mg/kg, and 14.0 mg/kg of DA while Groups G-J became the infected and treated rats with 0.01 ml/kg, 0.02 ml/kg, 0.03 ml/kg, and 0.04 ml/kg of AR. Groups K-N became infected and treated rats with DA and AR combinations at similar doses.

Results: Parasitemia suppression occurred in Groups G-J only but became cleared in Groups C-F and K-N. Survival time varied significantly (p<0.05) between Group B and the other infected groups. We recorded anemia in all the infected rats while significant (p<0.05) splenomegaly and hepatomegaly occurred in Groups G-J only compared to the other groups.

Conclusion: AR did not inhibit or potentiate the anti-trypanosomal efficacy of DA, and therefore, it is comparatively less effective in combating T. brucei infection at the present doses and treatment regimen.

Keywords: albino rats, arteether, clinicopathology, diminazene aceturate, Trypanosoma brucei brucei.

Association of bovine uterine involution disturbances with serum neuropeptide concentrations

Research (Published online: 11-09-2020)

14. Association of bovine uterine involution disturbances with serum neuropeptide concentrations

Aida Abultdinova, Isatay Jakupov, Joachim Roth, Klaus Failing, Axel Wehrend and Marlene Sickinger

Veterinary World, 13(9): 1854-1857

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Puerperal diseases influence fertility and should be diagnosed as soon as possible. This study aimed to evaluate the applicability of serum concentrations of substance P (SP), vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP), and interleukin (IL)1β in the early diagnosis of uterine involution disturbances.

Materials and Methods: Blood serum samples of 86 dairy cows from six different farms were harvested within the first 20 days after calving from cows with uterine involution disturbances and healthy controls, respectively. Serum concentrations for SP, VIP, and IL-1β were determined using commercially available ELISA test kits. Statistical analyses included timely changes in blood serum levels and group comparisons of healthy cows and cows with uterine disease.

Results: SP concentrations increased significantly within 20 days after calving (p<0.04) with no significant difference observed between the groups. Moreover, no significant differences were found between VIP and log IL-1β.

Conclusion: Results showed that none of the examined serum parameters seems suitable as indicator of uterine involution disorders. Due to the timely changes in serum concentrations of SP after calving, a correlation to diseases might not be precluded. Further research is needed as regards the establishment of normative values concerning this parameter.

Keywords: dairy cow, diagnostics, inflammation, neuropeptides, uterus involution.

Relative white blood cell counts, heterophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, and discovery of blood parasites in wild dugong (Dugong dugon) at Lingayan Island, Toli-toli, Indonesia

Research (Published online: 10-09-2020)

13. Relative white blood cell counts, heterophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, and discovery of blood parasites in wild dugong (Dugong dugon) at Lingayan Island, Toli-toli, Indonesia

Aryani Sismin Satyaningtijas, Agik Suprayogi, Huda Shalahudin Darusman, Ardiansyah Nurdin and Desrayni Hanadhita

Veterinary World, 13(9): 1849-1853

ABSTRACT

Aim: This study was conducted to investigate the relative white blood cell (WBC) counts and the heterophil-to-lymphocyte (H/L) ratio and to analyze the presence of blood parasites in wild dugongs at Lingayan Island. It is expected that the results of this study could provide additional knowledge about the physiological conditions of wild dugongs in their natural habitats, which can serve as basic data in dugong conservation efforts, especially in Indonesia.

Materials and Methods: A wild dugong was captured around Lingayan Island. Blood samples were collected from the saphenous vein, and blood smears were prepared immediately. The blood smears were examined for leukocyte identification, calculation of relative WBC counts, and presence of blood parasites. The H/L ratio was calculated based on the obtained relative WBC counts.

Results: The relative WBC counts included heterophils 19.4%, lymphocytes 76.4%, and monocytes 3.6%, and the H/L ratio was 0.25. Intraerythrocytic parasites were identified and suspected to be Anaplasma and Babesia.

Conclusion: This study reports leukocyte values from free-ranging dugongs captured in Lingayan Island, Indonesia. Based on the H/L ratio, the dugong examined, in this study, did not experience chronic stress. However, the discovery of blood parasites could be one of the threatening factors for the dugong population.

Keywords: Anaplasma, Babesia, blood smear, leukocytes, sirenian.

Interaction between stress hormones and phagocytic cells and its effect on the health status of dairy cows: A review

Review (Published online: 10-09-2020)

12. Interaction between stress hormones and phagocytic cells and its effect on the health status of dairy cows: A review

Mohanned Naif Alhussien and Ajay Kumar Dang

Veterinary World, 13(9): 1837-1848

ABSTRACT

Dairy cows are exposed to various stressors during their production cycle that makes them more susceptible to various diseases. Phagocytes (neutrophils and macrophages) are important soldiers of the innate immune system. Neutrophils are the first responders to an inflammatory response and stress and kill pathogens by generating reactive oxygen species and by the release of various antimicrobial peptides, enzymes, neutrophil extracellular trap formation, etc. Macrophages, the other phagocytes, are also the cleanup crew for the innate immune system that removes debris, pathogens, and dead neutrophils later on after an inflammatory response. The neuroendocrine system along with phagocytes exhibits an immunomodulatory potential during stressful conditions. Neuroendocrine system directly affects the activity of phagocytes by communicating bidirectionally through shared receptors and messenger molecules such as hormones, neurotransmitters, or cytokines. Different immune cells may show variable responses to each hormone. Short time exposure to stress can be beneficial, but repeated or extended exposure to stress may be detrimental to the overall health and well-being of an animal. Although some stresses associated with farming practices in dairy cows are unavoidable, better understanding of the interactions occurring between various stress hormones and phagocytic cells can help to reduce stress, improve productivity and animal welfare. This review highlights the role played by various stress hormones in modulating phagocytic cell performance of dairy cattle under inflammatory conditions.

Keywords: dairy cattle, inflammatory diseases, leukocyte trafficking, macrophages, neutrophils.

Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex in wildlife: Review of current applications of antemortem and postmortem diagnosis

Review (Published online: 09-09-2020)

11. Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex in wildlife: Review of current applications of antemortem and postmortem diagnosis

Yusuf Madaki Lekko, Peck Toung Ooi, Sharina Omar, Mazlina Mazlan, Siti Zubaidah Ramanoon, Sabri Jasni, Faez Firdaus Abdullah Jesse and Azlan Che-Amat

Veterinary World, 13(9): 1822-1836

ABSTRACT

Tuberculosis (TB) is a chronic inflammatory and zoonotic disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) members, which affects various domestic animals, wildlife, and humans. Some wild animals serve as reservoir hosts in the transmission and epidemiology of the disease. Therefore, the monitoring and surveillance of both wild and domestic hosts are critical for prevention and control strategies. For TB diagnosis, the single intradermal tuberculin test or the single comparative intradermal tuberculin test, and the gamma-interferon test, which is regarded as an ancillary test, are used. Postmortem examination can identify granulomatous lesions compatible with a diagnosis of TB . In contrast, smears of the lesions can be stained for acid-fast bacilli, and samples of the affected organs can be subjected to histopathological analyses. Culture is the gold standard test for isolating mycobacterial bacilli because it has high sensitivity and specificity compared with other methods. Serology for antibody detection allows the testing of many samples simply, rapidly, and inexpensively, and the protocol can be standardized in different laboratories. Molecular biological analyses are also applicable to trace the epidemiology of the disease. In conclusion, reviewing the various techniques used in MTBC diagnosis can help establish guidelines for researchers when choosing a particular diagnostic method depending on the situation at hand, be it disease outbreaks in wildlife or for epidemiological studies. This is because a good understanding of various diagnostic techniques will aid in monitoring and managing emerging pandemic threats of infectious diseases from wildlife and also preventing the potential spread of zoonotic TB to livestock and humans. This review aimed to provide up-to-date information on different techniques used for diagnosing TB at the interfaces between wildlife, livestock, and humans.

Keywords: culture, ELISA, gamma interferon test, genotyping, histopathology, Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex, polymerase chain reaction, wildlife.

Molecular genotypes analysis of Cryptosporidium and Hymenolepis in rats on Lombok Island, Indonesia

Research (Published online: 08-09-2020)

5. Molecular genotypes analysis of Cryptosporidium and Hymenolepis in rats on Lombok Island, Indonesia

Ersandhi Resnhaleksmana, Wayan Tunas Artama, Mahardika Agus Wijayanti and Fihiruddin Fihiruddin

International Journal of One Health, 6(2): 123-127

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Cryptosporidium parvum and Hymenolepis nana are intestinal parasites that are commonly found in the unclean environment. Their presence in rats promotes the transmission of the cryptosporidiosis and hymenolepiasis to humans or animals nearby. This study aimed to determine the molecular characteristics of C. parvum and H. nana and their distribution in rats on Lombok Island.

Materials and Methods: C. parvum and H. nana were investigated in 50 rats from Lombok Island. The molecular-parasitological technique used was polymerase chain reaction and sequencing method.

Results: From 50 samples of rats' stool from 10 locations on Lombok Island, 8% (4/50) of C. parvum was detected molecularly with an 18S rRNA gene and 2% (1/50) of H. nana with COX 1 gene. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that C. parvum carrying rats on Lombok Island have a genetic relationship with C. parvum with Obi7 isolates, Japan and H. nana has a genetic relationship with Rodentolepis nana identified with Hn-VT isolates, India.

Conclusion: The highest incidence of parasites was found in rats that were caught in the urban areas of Lombok Island, West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia. Immediately, public health programs in these types of contaminated areas should receive priority attention to prevent further transmission of the parasites from animals to human beings.

Keywords: Cryptosporidium, Hymenolepis, intestinal parasite, Rattus.

Improving endangered antelope habitat through water quality assessment and collaboration with Kenya Wildlife Service

Research (Published online: 08-09-2020)

4. Improving endangered antelope habitat through water quality assessment and collaboration with Kenya Wildlife Service

Tamie Joy Jovanelly

International Journal of One Health, 6(2): 118-122

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: A population of endangered sitatunga antelope (Tragelaphus spekii) lives in a free-range environment at Impala Sanctuary in Kisumu, Kenya. Kenya Wildlife Service park officials suspected that increased demands on outdated sewage infrastructure caused animal drinking water sources to become contaminated which resulted in animal sickness and death. In this study, we complete a water quality assessment on open water sources within the park boundaries to determine if water was suitable for animal consumption.

Materials and Methods: For the assessment of water, we measure eight physical and chemical parameters (pH, temperature, fecal coliform, dissolved oxygen, biochemical oxygen demand, nitrates, total phosphates, and turbidity). These eight parameters were chosen because they are used to establish a water quality index (WQI) percentage which proved to be useful to communicate conditions to park rangers, stakeholders, and adjacent landowners.

Results: Through 6 months of assessments, data collection, and analysis, we determined that most open water sources are severely contaminated, ranking on the WQI from 46% to 58% (bad to medium). In addition, we compared our data to drinking water standards set by the U.S. Department of Agriculture for livestock to find that only two sites met the minimum criteria. The remaining four sites were exponentially contaminated with levels reaching 10× recommended values for animal health.

Conclusion: Following these findings, the park was able to attract money for sewage infrastructure rebuilds that resolved the contamination problems. Sickness and death of free-roaming animals, including the antelope, were reduced.

Keywords: animals and contaminated water, Kenya, water quality.