Effect of follicle-stimulating hormone on Bligon goat oocyte maturation and embryonic development post in vitro fertilization

Research (Published online: 14-11-2020)

21. Effect of follicle-stimulating hormone on Bligon goat oocyte maturation and embryonic development post in vitro fertilization

Diah Tri Widayati and Mulyoto Pangestu

Veterinary World, 13(11): 2443-2446

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Bligon goat is a crossbreed between Etawah and Kacang goat. This crossbreed goat is mostly reared by small farmers. In vitro maturation allows female goat (does) contributes toward reproduction despite the fact that the animal has been slaughtered. The aim of this study was to determine the in vitro maturation rate of Bligon goat oocytes supplemented with follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and their ability for further embryonic development after in vitro fertilization.

Materials and Methods: Experiment was conducted at the Laboratory of Animal Physiology and Reproduction, Faculty of Animal Science, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, using Bligon goat ovaries obtained from local slaughterhouse around Yogyakarta. One thousand five hundred cumulus-oocyte complexes were matured for 24 h in tissue culture medium 199 supplemented with 50 IU/L FSH or without FSH (control). First, matured oocytes were evaluated its morphology based on the expansion of cumulus cells and PB1 extrusion. Next, 600 oocytes were then stained with 1% aceto-orcein to examine maturation based on changes in the configuration of chromosomes and nuclear membrane breakdown. Oocytes were considered mature when they reached metaphase II. To prove the ability of mature oocytes to develop into embryos, 900 oocytes were processed for fertilization in vitro. The data were analyzed using analysis of variance.

Results: The results indicated that FSH supplementation significantly increased oocyte maturation rate (65.21±7.26 vs. 43.25±6.23%) as indicated by extrusion of PB1 and homologous chromosome pairing and lined in the equator. The rate of degeneration was lower in the FSH-supplemented medium (3.21±0.25 vs. 10.17±3.15%). The blastocyst stage of oocyte developed embryos was reached by 12.43±2.15% and 22.28±4.86% of the control and treatment groups, respectively.

Conclusion: FSH supplementation significantly improves oocyte maturation and yields mature oocytes for future embryo development in vitro.

Keywords: Bligon goat, follicle-stimulating hormone supplementation, in vitro embryo production.

Left ventricular systolic function in dogs with pulmonic stenosis

Research (Published online: 14-11-2020)

20. Left ventricular systolic function in dogs with pulmonic stenosis

Ploypanut Trikhun, Sirilak Disatian Surachetpong, Saikaew Sutayatram and Chollada Buranakarl

Veterinary World, 13(11): 2436-2442

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Pulmonic stenosis (PS) is the most common congenital heart disease in dogs. This condition causes right ventricle (RV) overload and disrupts overall systolic function. The aim of this study was to examine the alterations of cardiac electrical activity and mechanical function in dogs with PS compared to normal healthy dogs.

Materials and Methods: The ventricular systolic function of dogs with PS was studied. Dogs were divided into two groups, PS (n=13) and control (CONT) (n=12). Measurements of blood pressure, electrocardiography (ECG), and echocardiography were performed.

Results: PS dogs had exercise intolerance, with six experiencing syncope. ECG of PS dogs showed higher amplitudes of P, S, and T waves (p<0.01), and a lower R:S ratio (p<0.001) with longer QRS duration (p<0.001) compared to CONT dogs. Echocardiography demonstrated that the pulmonic flow velocity and pressure gradient (PG) between the RV and the pulmonary artery of PS dogs were significantly higher than CONT dogs (p<0.001). The RV free wall thickness to the left ventricular posterior wall thickness ratio and the right atrium to the left atrium diameter ratio was higher (p<0.001), while interventricular septum (IVS) was thicker (p<0.01) in PS dogs compared with CONT dogs (p<0.001). The systolic function in PS dogs showed higher pulmonic valve velocity time integral (PVVTI) value (p<0.001) and longer pulmonic valve ejection time (ET) (p<0.05) than CONT dogs. However, aortic valve VTI (AVVTI) value and aortic valve ET were not significantly different between the groups, although fractional shortening in PS dogs was higher. In PS dogs, PG showed a significant positive correlation with PVVTI:AVVTI ratio (p<0.05).

Conclusion: PS had prolonged pulmonic valve opening. The thickening of the RV wall and IVS can cause a detrimental reduction of the left ventricular preload in PS dogs.

Keywords: dogs, pulmonic stenosis, ventricular function.

Application of statistical process control for monitoring bulk tank milk somatic cell count of smallholder dairy farms

Research (Published online: 13-11-2020)

19. Application of statistical process control for monitoring bulk tank milk somatic cell count of smallholder dairy farms

Veerasak Punyapornwithaya, Chalutwan Sansamur, Tawatchai Singhla and Paramintra Vinitchaikul

Veterinary World, 13(11): 2429-2435

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Consistency in producing raw milk with less variation in bulk tank milk somatic cell count (BMSCC) is important for dairy farmers as their profit is highly affected by it in the long run. Statistical process control (SPC) is widely used for monitoring and detecting variations in an industrial process. Published reports on the application of the SPC method to smallholder farm data are very limited. Thus, the purpose of this study was to assess the capability of the SPC method for monitoring the variation of BMSCC levels in milk samples collected from smallholder dairy farms.

Materials and Methods: Bulk tank milk samples (n=1302) from 31 farms were collected 3 times/month for 14 consecutive months. The samples were analyzed to determine the BMSCC levels. The SPC charts, including the individual chart (I-chart) and the moving range chart (MR-chart), were created to determine the BMSCC variations, out of control points, and process signals for each farm every month. The interpretation of the SPC charts was reported to dairy cooperative authorities and veterinarians.

Results: Based on a set of BMSCC values as well as their variance from SPC charts, a series of BMSCC data could be classified into different scenarios, including farms with high BMSCC values but with low variations or farms with low BMSCC values and variations. Out of control points and signals or alarms corresponding to the SPC rules, such as trend and shift signals, were observed in some of the selected farms. The information from SPC charts was used by authorities and veterinarians to communicate with dairy farmers to monitor and control BMSCC for each farm.

Conclusion: This study showed that the SPC method can be used to monitor the variation of BMSCC in milk sampled from smallholder farms. Moreover, information obtained from the SPC charts can serve as a guideline for dairy farmers, dairy cooperative boards, and veterinarians to manage somatic cell counts in bulk tanks from smallholder dairy farms.

Keywords: bulk milk somatic cell count, control chart, dairy farm, smallholder, statistical process control.

Comparative analysis of various step-dilution techniques on the quality of frozen Limousin bull semen

Research (Published online: 13-11-2020)

18. Comparative analysis of various step-dilution techniques on the quality of frozen Limousin bull semen

Ani Atul Arif, Tulus Maulana, Ekayanti Mulyawati Kaiin, Bambang Purwantara, Raden Iis Arifiantini and Erdogan Memili

Veterinary World, 13(11): 2422-2428

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Indonesia has two National Artificial Insemination centers and 17 Regional Artificial Insemination Centers. The frozen semen production techniques differed between the centers, including the type of diluent and semen dilution technique. The aim of the research was to compare the quality of frozen Limousin bull semen diluted using different techniques.

Materials and Methods: Semen was collected from three sexually mature Limousin bulls using an artificial vagina. Immediately after collection, the semen was evaluated macroscopically and microscopically. Semen that had >70% motile sperm and <20% sperm abnormality was divided into three tubes and diluted with skim milk-egg yolk (SMEY) using three different dilution techniques: One-step dilution (100% SMEY with 8% glycerol) at room temperature ([RT] 20°C until 25°C) two-step dilution (50% SMEY without glycerol at RT, stored at 5°C; and 50% SMEY with 16% glycerol after 1 h stored at 5°C); and three-step dilution (50% SMEY without glycerol at RT, stored at 5°C; and 50% SMEY with 16% glycerol added twice at 1 h and 1.5 h after being stored at 5°C). The diluted semen was loaded into 0.25 mL mini straws, equilibrated, and frozen using a freezing machine. Sperm motility, viability, membranes, DNA integrity, and concentrations of malondialdehyde (MDA) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) enzymes were evaluated after thawing.

Results: The results showed that there were no significant differences in sperm motility and DNA integrity between dilutions (p>0.05). However, sperm viability and membrane intactness of one-step dilutions were higher than those of three-step dilutions. The concentrations of MDA and AST enzymes of sperm in one-step dilutions were lower than those of three-step dilutions (p<0.05).

Conclusion: It was concluded that the one-step-dilution technique was better than three-step dilution for cryopreservation of Limousin bull semen.

Keywords: aminotransferase, dilution technique, frozen semen quality, malondialdehyde.

Conservative management of pelvic fractures in dogs and cats in Algiers: Incidence and long-term clinical outcomes

Research (Published online: 12-11-2020)

17. Conservative management of pelvic fractures in dogs and cats in Algiers: Incidence and long-term clinical outcomes

Ryhan Bouabdallah, Fatima-Zohra Meghiref, Naouelle Azzag, Chabha Benmohand, Wahiba Zenad and Myriem Rebouh

Veterinary World, 13(11): 2416-2421

ABSTRACT

Aim: We performed a retrospective study to evaluate clinical complications and outcomes associated with non-operative management of pelvic fractures in dogs and cats and described owner satisfaction.

Materials and Methods: Based on radiographic findings and fracture location, case records were classified into two groups. Group 1 included animals with acetabulum involvement that underwent conservative treatment plus femoral head-and-neck excision. Group 2 included animals without acetabulum involvement that underwent conservative treatment only. Compliance with rest instructions, time to locomotion recovery, and the evaluation of persistent lameness were data collected from the questionnaire. The level of satisfaction was classified as excellent, good, or bad. Clinical outcome was evaluated at least 10 months after the fracture.

Results: Pelvic injuries included sacroiliac luxations (59.52%) and ilial body (35.7%), acetabular (21.4%), pubic (21.4%), and ischial (14.28%) fractures alone or combined. According to the owners, the proposed strategy yielded good to excellent outcomes in dogs and cats in this study, with 95.23% of animals regaining full function of their hind limbs. Two dogs had slight chronic lameness, and some degree of gait abnormality persisted.

Conclusion: Because of financial constraints, the chronicity of fractures, or lack of surgical techniques, the surgical treatment of pelvic fractures may not be possible. Non-operative treatment can then be considered to allow the animal to return to acceptable function.

Keywords: Cats, dogs, nonsurgical management, pelvic fractures.

Detection of Leptospira in urine of apparently healthy dogs by quantitative polymerase chain reaction in Haryana, India

Research (Published online: 12-11-2020)

16. Detection of Leptospira in urine of apparently healthy dogs by quantitative polymerase chain reaction in Haryana, India

Preeti Rohilla, Rajesh Khurana, Aman Kumar, Kanisht Batra and Renu Gupta

Veterinary World, 13(11): 2411-2415

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease caused by bacteria of the genus Leptospira. The organism can spread through the urine of infected animals, which can get into water or soil and can survive there for weeks to months. The study was undertaken to detect the pathogenic Leptospira in healthy dogs' urinary shedding by real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR).

Materials and Methods: Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease caused by bacteria of the genus Leptospira. To detect the pathogenic Leptospira organisms in dogs' urinary shedding, 239 urine samples were collected from healthy dogs from April 2018 to March 2019 from different areas of Haryana. All the urine samples were processed for DNA extraction and qPCR technique was used to detect the presence of Leptospira.

Results: Out of 239 urine samples of dogs, none of the samples resulted in the detection of DNA of pathogenic Leptospira organisms.

Conclusion: The present study indicated low risk of transmission of Leptospira organisms from dogs' urine to human beings in Haryana.

Keywords: Leptospira, leptospirosis, qPCR, lipL32, Haryana.

Comparative evaluation of decellularized bovine omentum alone and in combination with mitomycin-C in the management of corneal injuries in dogs

Research (Published online: 11-11-2020)

15. Comparative evaluation of decellularized bovine omentum alone and in combination with mitomycin-C in the management of corneal injuries in dogs

A. S. Thajunnisa, Anoop Sainulabdeen, K. M. Dileepkumar, Laiju M. Philip, V. N. Vasudevan and C. B. Devanand

Veterinary World, 13(11): 2401-2410

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Ulcerative corneal lesions are common ocular affections encountered in veterinary ophthalmology, having a higher incidence in dogs with brachycephalic conformation. Prompt and effective diagnosis and repair are necessary to avoid corneal perforation and restore vision. Corneal wound healing is a complex phenomenon often resulting in vision impairment as a consequence of corneal fibrosis and pigmentation. The present study investigated the efficacy of decellularized and gamma-irradiated bovine omentum as an extracellular matrix scaffold in the reconstruction of extensive and full-thickness corneal defects, and the cytotoxic effects of mitomycin-C (MMC) to prevent corneal fibrosis and pigmentation.

Materials and Methods: Twelve injured corneas of eleven dogs irrespective of breed, age, and sex were randomly divided into Groups I and II, consisting of six corneas each. Under general anesthesia, corneal grafting with decellularized and gamma-irradiated bovine omentum was carried out in Group I, whereas Group II corneas underwent single time intra-operative application of topical MMC for 2 min before corneal grafting with the same material. Epithelialization of cornea and observations including corneal edema, neovascularization, the extent of pigmentation, corneal clarity, and scarring was recorded on days 7, 14, 21, and 60 postoperatively.

Results: All corneas in Group I showed early epithelialization by day 7 compared to Group II where the MMC delayed epithelialization in 50% of the corneas. Visual function scores improved greatly from 0.17±0.17 in Group II on the day of presentation to 1.0±00 by the end of the observation period compared to Group I (from 0.33±0.15 to 0.88±0.11). Although epithelialization and corneal healing were delayed, 50% of the corneas recovered with undetectable corneal scar and melanosis at the end of the observation period in Group II due to the anti-fibrotic effect of MMC.

Conclusion: From the present study, it was concluded that re-epithelialization of the cornea was enhanced by corneal grafting with decellularized bovine omentum, and application of MMC was effective in delaying corneal fibrosis and pigmentation.

Keywords: biomaterial scaffold graft, corneal ulcer, decellularized bovine omentum, graft assisted corneal healing, mitomycin-C.

Circulation of oxytetracycline- and ciprofloxacin-resistant commensal Escherichia coli strains in broiler chickens and farm environments, Bangladesh

Research (Published online: 10-11-2020)

14. Circulation of oxytetracycline- and ciprofloxacin-resistant commensal Escherichia coli strains in broiler chickens and farm environments, Bangladesh

Avijit Das, Pangkaj Kumar Dhar, Avijit Dutta, Mohammad Shah Jalal, Priya Ghosh, Tridip Das, Himel Barua and Paritosh Kumar Biswas

Veterinary World, 13(11): 2395-2400

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: The emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in commensal organism, such as Escherichia coli of food animals, is an alarming issue for global health. It increases the possibility of transmitting AMR determinant(s) to human bacterial pathogens by transferable genetic materials, particularly by plasmids. Hence, it is important to know which resistant genes are being carried by commensal organisms in food chain in a country and their level of temporal loads. As a result, pre-emptive measures can be advocated with an aim to reduce their risks in their primary source of circulation which consequently would benefit the public health.

Materials and Methods: Commensal E. coli strains from broiler chickens on randomly selected 30 farms and the farm environments were examined for the frequencies of isolation of resistant strains to oxytetracycline and ciprofloxacin. Five birds were randomly selected from each farm to collect cloacal swab samples (total of 150 samples). Furthermore, a total of 150 environmental samples comprising one each from feed, water, soil, litter, and litter damping site of each farm were screened for the isolation of commensal E. coli strains. Strains thus obtained were initially tested for their resistance to oxytetracycline and ciprofloxacin by Kirby–Bauer disk diffusion method. Oxytetracycline-resistant strains were further screened for the presence of resistance determining genes, namely, tetA, tetB, and tetC by uniplex polymerase chain reactions. Risks associated with the isolation frequency of oxytetracycline- and ciprofloxacin-resistant E. coli were also assessed by univariable logistic regression analysis.

Results: The results revealed that all E. coli isolates, regardless of the source of origin, were resistant to oxytetracycline, while 78.4% (95% confidence interval [CI] 69.1-85.5%) showed resistance to ciprofloxacin. All the randomly selected (20) oxytetracycline-resistant strains harbored the tetA gene, whereas tetB and tetC were reported in three and two isolates, respectively. After univariable analysis, only one variable, that is, strain 1 of broiler chickens compared to two other strains was found to be positively associated with the isolation of ciprofloxacin-resistant E. coli (odds ratio 12.75 [95% CI 1.0- 157.1], p=0.047).

Conclusion: Resistance emerged against oxytetracycline and ciprofloxacin in commensal E. coli strains circulating in live poultry and farm environments in Bangladesh seems to be very high. Thus, human infection with drug-resistant E. coli strains through food chain will critically compromise the therapeutic measures currently available.

Keywords: antimicrobial resistance, Escherichia coli, farm environment, poultry.

Hematological profile of blood parasitic infected dogs in Southern Thailand

Research (Published online: 10-11-2020)

13. Hematological profile of blood parasitic infected dogs in Southern Thailand

Sorawat Thongsahuan, Usa Chethanond, Siriwat Wasiksiri, Vannarat Saechan, Wichaya Thongtako and Tipayaratn Musikacharoen

Veterinary World, 13(11): 2388-2394

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Tick-borne pathogens such as Babesia canis, Hepatozoon canis, and Ehrlichia canis can cause serious disease in canines. Each blood parasite can be associated with different hematological characteristics in infected dogs. Identification of hematological alterations during routine laboratory screening of blood samples from dogs displaying clinical signs is essential for diagnosing blood parasitic infections. This study aimed to evaluate parasitic infections and hematological alterations in blood samples of infected dogs in Southern Thailand.

Materials and Methods: A total of 474 blood samples were collected from dogs presented at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital of the Prince of Songkla University between 2016 and 2019. An automatic hematology analyzer was used to establish hematological values; peripheral blood films were screened for blood parasites and their detection was associated with hematological alterations to determine the odds ratio (OR).

Results: This study found that E. canis (n=127) was the most common blood parasite infecting dogs in southern Thailand, followed by H. canis (n=100) and B. canis (n=24). Hematological alterations caused by Ehrlichia infections included anemia, thrombocytopenia, monocytosis, and eosinophilia (OR=14.64, 17.63, 20.34, and 13.43, respectively; p<0.01). The blood samples of Hepatozoon-infected dogs were characterized by anemia, thrombocytopenia, leukocytosis, neutrophilia, and monocytosis (OR=6.35, 3.16, 12.80, 11.11, and 17.37, respectively; p<0.01). Anemia, thrombocytopenia, eosinopenia, and lymphopenia (OR=10.09, 33.00, 20.02, and 66.47 respectively; p<0.01) were associated with B. canis-infected dogs.

Conclusion: These data support the fact that hematological abnormalities are a hallmark for the identification of tick-borne infections. The hematological values, hereby reported, can be used as a guideline for the clinical diagnosis of canine blood parasitic infections in Southern Thailand.

Keywords: blood parasite, dogs, hematological characteristics, Southern Thailand.

Comparing the results of intradermal skin tests for four dust mite allergens in dogs with atopic dermatitis in Thailand

Research (Published online: 09-11-2020)

12. Comparing the results of intradermal skin tests for four dust mite allergens in dogs with atopic dermatitis in Thailand

Suttiwee Chermprapai, Pojnicha Chuayjuljit Anukkul, Teerawat Kritsadasima, Pudcharaporn Kromkhun and Naris Thengchaisri

Veterinary World, 13(11): 2381-2387

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Hypersensitivity to house dust mites is a common cause of atopic dermatitis in dogs. The intradermal test (IDT) identifies allergens to be included in allergen-specific immunotherapy. Common mite allergens used for IDT include single source extracts obtained from Dermatophagoides farinae or Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus or multisource extracts from multimite species (mixed mites), as well as a combination of multimite species and proteins from feces and shed skin (house dust). The objectives of the present study were to evaluate the prevalence of mite sensitivity in dogs diagnosed with atopic dermatitis in different Thailand provinces and to determine if positive test results to mite allergens aligned.

Materials and Methods: Eighty-two dogs (median age [range]: 5 years [11 months-11 years]; 51 males and 31 females) diagnosed with atopic dermatitis underwent IDTs with four different mite-related allergens (D. farinae, D. pteronyssinus, mixed mites, and house dust). The skin reactions were reported on a scale of 0-4 and the reactions 2+ were considered clinically relevant. The relationship between IDT results from different allergens was determined using Pearson's correlation coefficient (r). Fisher's exact test was used to compare IDT results for different mite allergens as well as for dogs residing in Bangkok versus other provinces in Thailand.

Results: The prevalence (95% confidence interval [CI]) of positive IDT results for D. farinae, D. pteronyssinus, mixed mites, and house dust in dogs with atopic dermatitis was 64.63% (52.30-74.88), 58.54% (47.12-69.32), 47.56% (36.41-58.89), and 35.37% (25.12-46.70), respectively. A moderate correlation was found in IDT results between D. pteronyssinus and house dust (r=0.514), between D. pteronyssinus and D. farinae (r=0.426), and between D. farinae and mixed mites (r=0.423). The prevalence of dogs with positive IDT results for mite allergens with mono-sensitization, bi-sensitization, tri-sensitization, and quadru-sensitization did not differ significantly between dogs residing in Bangkok (11.63%, 18.60%, 25.58%, and 16.28%) and dogs residing in other provinces (12.82%, 30.77%, 35.90%, and 10.26%). The overall sensitivity (95% CI) and specificity (95% CI) of the mixed mites test associated with atopic dermatitis in dogs were 60.32% (47.20-72.40%) and 94.70% (74.00-99.90%), respectively. The overall sensitivity (95% CI) and specificity (95% CI) of the house dust test associated with atopic dermatitis in dogs were 42.90% (30.50-56.00%) and 89.50% (66.90-98.70%), respectively.

Conclusion: House dust mites are an important source of allergens for dogs with atopic dermatitis. In the present study, no significant difference in the prevalence of atopic dermatitis was found in dogs living in the urban area compared with dogs living in the countryside. Application of multisource extracts from mites for IDT revealed a higher reaction to mixed mites than that of house dust.

Keywords: allergy, atopic dermatitis, dogs, house dust mite, intradermal skin test.

The therapeutic efficacy of Aloe vera gel ointment on staphylococcal pyoderma in dogs

Research (Published online: 09-11-2020)

11. The therapeutic efficacy of Aloe vera gel ointment on staphylococcal pyoderma in dogs

Ahmed Kamr, Ali Arbaga, Amanallah El-Bahrawy, Ahmed Elsify, Hadeer Khaled and Hany Hassan

Veterinary World, 13(11): 2371-2380

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Staphylococcus pyoderma is a common problem in dogs that need a novel treatment rather than antibiotic therapy. The aim of this study was to investigate the therapeutic efficacy, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidative properties of Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis) gel ointment on dogs' Staphylococcus pyoderma compared to gentamicin ointment.

Materials and Methods: The inhibition zone of A. vera extract 20% and 40% and gentamicin 1% against Staphylococcus aureus was determined on well diffusion agar. Twenty Baladi local breed dogs were used as control negative group before intradermal inoculation with 105 CFU S. aureus. The animals were classified into four equal groups, control positive group without treatment (n=5), treated groups by 20% A. vera gel ointment (n=5), 40% A. vera gel ointment (n=5), and gentamicin ointment 1% (n=5). Topical application of A. vera and gentamicin ointments was carried out twice daily for 2 weeks until complete healing of dogs' pyoderma. Clinical evaluation was recorded. Inflammatory, oxidant, and antioxidant parameters were measured in serum.

Results: The inhibition zone of A. vera extracts 20% and 40% was 19 mm and 23 mm, respectively, while gentamicin 1% was 18 mm. The half maximal inhibitory concentration (of A. vera 20% and 40% were 13.70 with R2=0.98. Dogs' pyoderma treated with A. vera gel ointment 20% and 40% were more likely to have low haptoglobin and tumor necrosis factor-α concentrations than gentamicin 1% ([odds ratio [OR]=4.6; 95% confidence interval [CI]=1.31-17.40; p<0.05]; [OR=5.2; 95% CI=1.04-22.30; p<0.05]), respectively.

Conclusion: It seems evident that A. vera has therapeutic effect, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory effects against dogs' staphylococcal pyoderma than gentamicin that would support its further use rather than antibiotics in one health arena.

Keywords: catalase, dogs, interleukins, malondialdehyde, pyoderma, serum amyloid A.

Readily usable strategies to control mastitis for production augmentation in dairy cattle: A review

Review (Published online: 09-11-2020)

10. Readily usable strategies to control mastitis for production augmentation in dairy cattle: A review

Champak Bhakat, A. Mohammad, D. K. Mandal, A. Mandal, S. Rai, A. Chatterjee, M. K. Ghosh and T. K. Dutta

Veterinary World, 13(11): 2364-2370

ABSTRACT

Mastitis in dairy cattle is the most common management disorder that causes higher economic losses by lowering production and quality of milk leads to substantial economical loss. The aim of this article was to review worldwide important advances in strategies to control mastitis for production augmentation in dairy cattle. Many scientists worked to identify effective strategies to control mastitis caused by Streptococcus agalactiae, Staphylococcus aureus, and others. It is necessary to identify mechanisms of infection, define clinical and subclinical states of disease, determine exposure time, and identify pathogen-specific characteristics. Evolvement of management strategies that incorporated hygienic procedures (animal, floor, and milkman), post milking standing period of animal and strategic use of antibiotic or herbal therapy at dry-off, nutritional supplementation, fly control, body condition score optimization, etc., resulted in widespread control of mastitis. The udder, teat of animal, scientific management of milking, automatic milking procedure, genetic selection are considered as important factors to control mastitis. As farm management changed, scientists were directed to redefine control of mastitis caused by opportunistic pathogens of environmental sources and have sought to explore management strategies which will maintain animal well-being in a judicial way. Although significant advances in mastitis management have been made changing herd structure, changing climatic scenario and more rigorous milk processing standards ensure that mastitis will remain important issue for future research.

Keywords: dairy cattle, hygiene, mastitis, milk production, pathogen, strategies.

Comparison of colorimetric loop-mediated isothermal amplification kit and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction in the diagnosis of peste des petits ruminants in sheep and goats in Southeast Nigeria

Research (Published online: 07-11-2020)

9. Comparison of colorimetric loop-mediated isothermal amplification kit and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction in the diagnosis of peste des petits ruminants in sheep and goats in Southeast Nigeria

Ijeoma Chekwube Chukwudi, Kenneth Ikejiofor Ogbu, Pam Dachung Luka, Refiloe Petunia Malesa, Livio Edward Heath, Emmanuel Ikenna Ugochukwu and Kennedy Foinkfu Chah

Veterinary World, 13(11): 2358-2363

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Peste des petits ruminants (PPR) is an acute, extremely contagious transboundary viral disease of small ruminants with severe economic consequences, caused by PPR virus. Cost-effective and rapid diagnosis of the disease is essential for prompt management and control. This study aimed to compare the application of a commercial colorimetric loop-mediated isothermal amplification (cLAMP) kit and reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) in the diagnosis of PPR in sheep and goats in Southeast Nigeria.

Materials and Methods: Nasal swab samples were collected from West African Dwarf sheep and goats showing clinical signs suggestive of PPR (n=80) and those without any clinical signs (n=140) of the disease. The diagnosis was achieved through detection of PPR viral genome in the samples using a cLAMP kit and RT-PCR. cLAMP assay was done directly on nasal swab samples without ribosomal nucleic acid extraction. A set of six primers targeting the matrix gene protein was used for the cLAMP assay.

Results: PPR viral genome was detected by both cLAMP and RT-PCR in 51 (63.8%) of the 80 samples from sheep and goats with signs suggestive of PPR while 14 (10%) of those without signs tested positive for PPR by both assay methods. There was a 100% agreement in the cLAMP and RT-PCR results. However, cLAMP was a faster, easier, and less expensive method compared to RT-PCR.

Conclusion: The cLAMP assay demonstrates the potential for a point of care diagnosis in the field and a valuable diagnostic tool in areas with poor electricity supply as well as in a less equipped diagnostic laboratory. Since the reagents are affordable, cLAMP can be a diagnostic tool of choice in the detection and surveillance of PPR virus in countries with limited resources.

Keywords: colorimetric loop-mediated isothermal amplification, peste des petits ruminants virus, reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, small ruminant diagnostic tool.

Why there were few cases of coronavirus disease 2019 in Libya during the first two months of the pandemic?

Review (Published online: 06-11-2020)

11. Why there were few cases of coronavirus disease 2019 in Libya during the first two months of the pandemic?

Abdunnabi A. Rayes, Badereddin B. Annajar, Abdunaser S. Dayhum and Ibrahim M. Eldaghayes

International Journal of One Health, 6(2): 160-164

ABSTRACT

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a pandemic that affected almost all countries worldwide with more than 29,439,120 confirmed cases and 932,486 deaths recorded till on September 14, 2020. However, on May 25, 2020, after 2 months from the first reported case of COVID-19 in Libya, the country was among very few countries in the world that had very few cases of COVID-19 with a total of 75 confirmed cases and three deaths during the first 2 months since the detection of the first case on March 24, 2020. Based on the global epidemiological pattern of the disease, the magnitude of COVID-19 in Libya could have been much worse. However, the reality is eccentrically different and the epidemiology exhibited different scenario with very few cases being recorded during the first 2 months of pandemic in Libya. In this article, a review of COVID-19 situation in Libya is presented with thoughts about the potential reasons that could explain the very few cases of COVID-19 in the country in context with the global figures of the pandemic.

Keywords: coronavirus disease 2019, epidemiology, incidence, Libya, pandemic.

Systemic levels of iron, phosphorus, and total protein in normocyclic versus repeat breeder Holstein Friesian crossbred cows of Kesharbag, Chitwan, Nepal

Research (Published online: 06-11-2020)

8. Systemic levels of iron, phosphorus, and total protein in normocyclic versus repeat breeder Holstein Friesian crossbred cows of Kesharbag, Chitwan, Nepal

Girija Regmi and Ishwari Prasad Dhakal

Veterinary World, 13(11): 2353-2357

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: In repeat breeding, a sexually mature cow fails to conceive even after three or more consecutive inseminations despite being without any clinically detectable reproductive anomalies. This is a major cause of economic loss in livestock farms, particularly in developing countries, where humans and livestock directly compete for food, and the mineral content of animal feed is rarely checked. This study investigated the association between systemic iron, phosphorus, and total protein and estrous cyclicity in crossbred Holstein Friesian cows.

Materials and Methods: Blood samples were collected from 10 normal cyclic and 10 repeat breeder cows 12 h after the onset of estrus. Serum was separated, and iron, phosphorus, and total protein were quantified with spectrophotometry, using standard controls for all three measurement parameters (iron, phosphorus, and total protein).

Results: Iron and phosphorus levels were significantly (p<0.05) lower in the repeat breeders group than in the normocyclic group, but no significant differences were found in total protein levels.

Conclusion: Repeat breeding is associated with systemic iron and phosphorus levels but is independent of total protein level.

Keywords: crossbred cows, estrous cyclicity, normocyclic, repeat breeder/breeding.

Analysis of the benefits and production challenges of working donkeys in smallholder farming systems in Kenya

Research (Published online: 06-11-2020)

7. Analysis of the benefits and production challenges of working donkeys in smallholder farming systems in Kenya

Mary Gichure, Joshua Onono, Raphael Wahome and Peter Gathura

Veterinary World, 13(11): 2346-2352

ABSTRACT

Aim: The aim of the study was to determine the benefits of keeping donkeys and associated production challenges under a smallholder farming system in Kenya.

Materials and Methods: A descriptive study was conducted with smallholder farmers keeping donkeys in 13 administrative locations in Kirinyaga County. Data were collected using a questionnaire guide in 13 focus group discussions (FGDs) using participatory epidemiological methods. The FGDs comprised 8-12 participants who were donkey owners. Data were collected through listing, pair-wise ranking, and probing on the benefits of keeping donkeys, challenges faced by working donkeys and the common diseases that affect donkeys in these farms. Data analysis was performed using Kruskal–Wallis non-parametric method to test whether median ranks were significantly different. Other farm level data were also collected using the structured questionnaire and these were analyzed using descriptive statistical methods.

Results: The identified benefits included income obtained from the use of donkeys in transportation (Z=5.80) and manure production (Z=3.47), which enabled the farmers to participate in trade activities and improve crop farming. The identified challenges included theft for slaughter (Z=5.99), disease incidence (Z=3.03), road accidents (Z=2.83), and malicious cutting (Z=2.32). Some of the diseases identified were tetanus (Z=5.35), hoof problems (Z=4.55), helminthiases (Z=3.10), and mange (Z=2.24). Participants ranked diseases based on their effects on work output for the donkeys, reducing productivity and often causing death. Addressing these production challenges would optimize donkey use among smallholder farmers.

Conclusion: The results presented can be important for policymakers and extension agents regarding the health and welfare of donkeys kept under similar settings.

Keywords: benefits and challenges, income, livelihoods, working donkeys.

Evaluation of a modified method of extraction, purification, and characterization of lipopolysaccharide (O antigen) from Salmonella Typhimurium

Research (Published online: 05-11-2020)

6. Evaluation of a modified method of extraction, purification, and characterization of lipopolysaccharide (O antigen) from Salmonella Typhimurium

Heba M. Hassan, Mai A. Fadel and Mohamed A. Soliman

Veterinary World, 13(11): 2338-2345

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is an integral part of the outer cell membrane complex of Gram-negative bacteria. It plays an important role in the induction and stimulation of the immune system. Various LPS purification protocols have been developed. However, analysis of their efficacy is limited by contamination during downstream applications or the public health hazard of LPS. The aim of this study was to evaluate a modified method for extracting LPS as well as assess the purity of the extracted LPS by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis. Further, we evaluated its immunopotentiating function by measuring the relative RNA expression levels of splenic immune-related genes such as interleukin 1β (IL-1β) and interferon-γ (IFN-γ), after intramuscular injection of increasing concentrations of the extracted LPS in specific pathogen-free (SPF) chick.

Materials and Methods: Isolation, identification, and serotyping of Salmonella Typhimurium were performed using chicken flocks. We then performed molecular typing of Salmonella isolates using conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR). A new protocol for purification of LPS from Salmonella isolate (S. Typhimurium) was conducted. HPLC analysis of the extracted LPS in the current study was compared to existing methods. An in vivo study was performed to evaluate the ability of LPS to induce an immune response by measuring relative IFN-γ and IL-1β gene expression after injecting increasing concentrations of the extracted LPS into SPF chicks.

Results: Isolation and serotyping revealed that Salmonella enterica was of the serovar Typhimurium. Confirmation was conducted by molecular typing through conventional PCR. Fractionation of the LPS extract by HPLC revealed a high degree of purity comparable with standard commercial LPS. These results demonstrate the high purity of extracted LPS based on our modified method using propanol and sodium hydroxide mixture. Intramuscular injection of the extracted LPS in 22 day-old SPF chicks, compared to the negative control, revealed significant upregulation of IFN-γ and slight downregulation of IL-1β.

Conclusion: The new modified method can be used for high purity LPS extraction and demonstrates effective immunopotentiating activity.

Keywords: extraction, high-performance liquid chromatography, interferon-γ and interleukin 1β genes expression, LPS (O antigen), purification, quantitative polymerase chain reaction, Salmonella Typhimurium.

Effects of steroid growth promoter on morphological and biochemical adaptations in liver of broiler

Research (Published online: 05-11-2020)

5. Effects of steroid growth promoter on morphological and biochemical adaptations in liver of broiler

Nasrin Sultana, Marzia Afrose and Kazi Rafiq

Veterinary World, 13(11): 2330-2337

ABSTRACT

Aim: The study was conducted to observe the effects of dexamethasone (DEX) on the gross study and histomorphometry of liver and on the alterations of biochemical parameters of broilers.

Materials and Methods: Ninety day-old chicks were collected and assigned to one of three groups: The control, Group A, and Group B. The control, Group A, and Group B were fed for 28 days with a homemade ration, a commercial broiler type ration, and a homemade ration with DEX (7 mg/kg feed), respectively. Liver samples were collected from the individual birds after sacrificing on days 7, 14, 21, and 28 of the experiment. Morphometric characteristics (length, weight, color, and texture) of the liver were examined. Histomorphological alterations of the liver were assessed with routine hematoxylin and eosin staining. To measure the biochemical parameters, blood samples were collected on days 7, 14, 21, and 28 of the experiment. Liver function test was performed spectrophotometrically by analyzing serum biochemical markers, that is, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase (ALP). Thin-layer chromatography (TLC) was performed for the detection of hepatic steroids.

Results: Hemorrhagic and congested livers were found in broilers of Group B. There were no significant changes found in weight and length of the livers; only numerical decrease in weight and length was observed in birds of Group B. Liver width was increased in Group B on day 21. Histological observation of livers showed accumulation of lipid droplets, congestion of the sinusoids, and central veins in broilers of Group B. Biochemical analyses showed increased levels of ALT in Group B as compared to Group A on day 14 of the experiment. TLC evaluation revealed a positive result in Group B on 28 days of the experiment.

Conclusion: The present study results show that DEX may alter the liver morphology and the concentration of ALT in the circulation of broilers.

Keywords: broiler, dexamethasone, growth promoter, liver.