Effect of adding growth factors during in vitro maturation on the developmental potentials of ewe oocytes selected by brilliant cresyl blue staining

Research (Published online: 22-02-2021)

17. Effect of adding growth factors during in vitro maturation on the developmental potentials of ewe oocytes selected by brilliant cresyl blue staining

Mohamed Fathi and Amr F. Elkarmoty

Veterinary World, 14(2): 452-456

ABSTRACT

Aim: Several factors had been concerned with the developmental competence of the sheep oocyte. This study aims to investigate the effect of adding growth factors (insulin-like growth factor 1 [IGF-1] and epidermal growth factor [EGF]) in the maturation medium of ewe oocytes selected based on brilliant cresyl blue (BCB) screening on in vitro maturation (IVM), fertilization, and pre-implantation embryo development.

Materials and Methods: Cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were obtained from the ovaries of slaughtered ewes by either aspiration or slicing techniques. COCs were in vitro matured in a medium containing IGF-1 and EGF (control group). For BCB screening, oocytes were stained and divided into BCB+ oocytes that matured in the same maturation conditions without adding growth factors (Group 2) or in the presence of growth factors (Group 3), and BCB– oocytes that matured in medium without growth factors (Group 4) or with growth factors (Group 5).

Results: The supplementation of the maturation medium with growth factors during IVM of (BCB+) oocytes resulted in a significant increase in nuclear maturation rate (90.9%), fertilization rate (75.6%), and embryo developmental rates (60.0%, 46.7%, and 33.3% for cleavage, morula, and blastocyst, respectively).

Conclusion: Culturing BCB+ oocytes in a maturation medium containing both EGF and IGF-1 showed a significant improvement in nuclear maturation, fertilization, and pre-implantation embryo development in vitro.

Keywords: brilliant cresyl blue, embryo development, growth factors, In vitro fertilization, sheep.

Prevalence and distribution of soil-transmitted helminth infection in free-roaming dogs in Bali Province, Indonesia

Research (Published online: 22-02-2021)

16. Prevalence and distribution of soil-transmitted helminth infection in free-roaming dogs in Bali Province, Indonesia

Kadek Karang Agustina, Made Suma Anthara, Nengah Anom Adi Nugraha Sibang, Wayan Adi Rinta Wiguna, Jendra Krisna Apramada, Wayan Nico Fajar Gunawan, Ida Bagus Made Oka, Made Subrata and Nengah Kerta Besung

Veterinary World, 14(2): 446-451

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Several free-roaming dogs can be easily found in the public areas of Bali. They go out in search of foods and friends and defecate everywhere. In general, these groups of dogs do not receive good healthcare from their owners and are generally threatened by some disease-causing organisms, especially helminths. This study was conducted to identify and measure the prevalence of soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) that cause infection in free-roaming dogs in Bali Province, Indonesia.

Materials and Methods: A total of 1611 fresh dog fecal samples were collected from all areas of Bali Province and subjected to qualitative fecal examination using flotation techniques to obtain STH eggs.

Results: The incidence of STHs in free-roaming dogs was 38.36%. However, three types of STHs were identified, including Ancylostoma spp., Ascaris spp., and Trichuris spp. Ancylostoma spp. had the highest prevalence of 37.8%, followed by Ascaris spp. and Trichuris spp. at 6.02% and 0.87%, respectively. Multiple infections of these worms were also recorded. The polyparasitism prevalence of Ancylostoma spp. and Ascaris spp. was 3.85%, followed by that of Ancylostoma spp. and Trichuris spp. at 0.5% and that of Ascaris spp. and Trichuris spp. at 0.06%. There were no altitude-wise differences in the prevalence of STH infection.

Conclusion: The prevalence of STHs was high in free-roaming dogs. This finding necessitates more serious attention as it affects both animal and public health.

Keywords: Ancylostoma spp., Ascaris spp., Bali, distribution, free-roam dogs, prevalence, soil-transmitted helminth, Trichuris spp.

Antimicrobial-resistant non-typhoidal Salmonella enterica prevalence among poultry farms and slaughterhouses in Chitwan, Nepal

Research (Published online: 20-02-2021)

15. Antimicrobial-resistant non-typhoidal Salmonella enterica prevalence among poultry farms and slaughterhouses in Chitwan, Nepal

Peter D. Fowler, Sumit Sharma, Dhan Kumar Pant, Subir Singh and Melinda J. Wilkins

Veterinary World, 14(2): 437-445

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Antibiotic-resistant infections are one of the leading threats to public health globally. Indiscriminate use of antibiotics in food animal production is an important driver of resistance, particularly among foodborne pathogens such as non-typhoidal Salmonella enterica (NTS). While there has been extensive research on antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) S. enterica in India and China, there have been few studies in countries in South Asia, including Nepal. This is particularly important with the rise of commercial poultry farming in Nepal as a means of economic development and nutritional subsistence. This descriptive study seeks to identify the prevalence and resistance patterns of NTS serotypes focusing on Chitwan, Nepal's leading poultry producing district.

Materials and Methods: A mixture of purposive and judgment sampling of 18 poultry farms and 20 slaughterhouses representing a broad geographic distribution across multiple municipalities in Chitwan was conducted in May 2019. Environmental samples taken from poultry farms included: Water, litter, feces, feed, farm swabs, and eggshell swabs. Biological samples taken from nearby slaughterhouses included: Muscle, heart, liver, skin, cecum, crop, and spleen. Samples were cultured and tested for the presence of NTS. Positive isolates were serotyped and tested for antimicrobial susceptibility to seven antibiotics known to be important to both human and animal health regionally. Farm practices were also characterized through a survey, the results of which are detailed in the accompanying paper.

Results: Out of 708 samples (288 environmental and 420 biological), 103 (15%) tested positive for NTS (9% of environmental; n=26, 18% of biological; n=77). The percentage of positive environmental and biological samples varied by source. Environmental sample positive rates were water (27.5%), feces (10.6%), litter (8.6%), farm swabs (5%), feed (1.8%), and eggshells (0%). Biological sample positive rates were skin (28%), heart (23%), crop (20%), muscle (15%), liver (15%), spleen (15%), and cecum (12%). Out of 103 positive S. enterica isolates, 48.5% were identified as Salmonella Typhimurium, 35% Salmonella Enteritidis, 7.8% Salmonella Gallinarum, 4.9% Salmonella Virchow, and 3.9% were Salmonella Agona. Of the 103 positive isolates, 80 (78%) were resistant to at least one antibiotic, and 21 (20%) were multidrug-resistant (MDR).

Conclusion: NTS is highly prevalent among Chitwan's growing poultry industry with higher rates of positivity found in slaughterhouse samples compared with environmental samples from farms. In addition, a high rate of AMR (78%) was revealed, and an extremely concerning number of those were shown to be MDR (20%). This baseline data has important implications for poultry production and consumption in the region. Further research will elucidate the extent to which this contamination and drug resistance is impacting the health of the local population and help inform treatment and management strategies.

Note: The characterization of the poultry industry and practices that might be linked to NTS contamination in the Chitwan district are detailed in the previous paper in this series (www.veterinaryworld.org/Vol.14/February-2021/14.pdf).

Keywords: antibiotic resistance, Nepal, non-typhoidal Salmonella, poultry, serotype.

Prevalence of non-typhoidal Salmonella and risk factors on poultry farms in Chitwan, Nepal

Research (Published online: 20-02-2021)

14. Prevalence of non-typhoidal Salmonella and risk factors on poultry farms in Chitwan, Nepal

Sumit Sharma, Peter D. Fowler, Dhan Kumar Pant, Subir Singh and Melinda J. Wilkins

Veterinary World, 14(2): 426-436

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Poultry is becoming an increasingly important source of protein in the Nepalese diet. The Chitwan region of Nepal is the hub of the emerging poultry industry. Little is known about the prevalence of non-typhoidal Salmonella (NTS) on poultry farms or the role of farm management practices that may contribute to the presence of NTS on farms. The role of poultry in the transmission of Salmonella enterica to humans is also poorly defined. This descriptive study seeks establish baseline data through estimation of the prevalence of NTS on broiler and layer operations in various farms of the Chitwan district of Nepal.

Materials and Methods: Based on district documents on poultry production and meat marketing, a purposive sampling of 18 commercial poultry farms comprising ten broilers farms and eight layers farms was conducted. Environmental samples including water, litter, feces, feed, farm, and eggshell swabs were randomly collected from each farm. Samples were cultured and tested for the presence of NTS; positives were serotyped, and antimicrobial susceptibility determined. A comprehensive farm and practice questionnaire was administered to each farm manager.

Results: The farm level point prevalence rate was 55% (10 of 18 farms) for S. enterica. Of the total 288 farm environmental samples collected, 26 samples (9%) were positive. The rate of isolation varied according to the origin of samples: Water (27.5%), feces (10.6%), litter (8.6%), farm swabs (5%), feed (1.8%), and eggshells (0%). Farm management variables/risk factors are summarized and categorized as non-modifiable and modifiable for analysis. Broiler operations were more likely to be positive than layer operations as were poultry houses with two or less open sides. All-in/all-out management style was found to be protective. Due to the small sample size (18 farms), no associations reached statistical significance.

Conclusion: Based on environmental sampling results, NTS is highly prevalent on the poultry farms in the Chitwan district of Nepal. Certain risk factors are associated with finding NTS on farms. Our findings are generally in agreement with other studies in similar countries with rapidly emerging poultry industries. The identification of risk factors provides owners, technicians, and veterinarians with some guidance to help reduce the prevalence of NTS on farms. This baseline data are critical to understanding the epidemiology of zoonotic strain of NTS in the region and are necessary for the design of future studies and mitigation plans and underlines the need for a one-health approach to protect public health-related to Salmonella spp. from poultry farms.

Keywords: farm risk factors, Nepal, non-typhoidal Salmonella, poultry, Salmonella enterica.

Histopathology of the kidney and seroprevalence of leptospirosis in wild rats in Baghdad Province, Iraq

Research (Published online: 17-02-2021)

4. Histopathology of the kidney and seroprevalence of leptospirosis in wild rats in Baghdad Province, Iraq

Abdulkarim Jafar Karim and Zainab Majid Abbas

International Journal of One Health, 7(1): 19-30

Background and Aim: Leptospirosis, caused by pathogenic leptospires, is a globally emerging infectious disease affecting both humans and animals, which act as reservoirs, with large outbreaks worldwide. The role of rats in dispersing leptospirosis was never investigated in Iraq. Because of the seriousness of the disease and the scarce data regarding this disease in Iraq, this study determines the incidence of leptospirosis in rats and its renal histopathological profile.

Materials and Methods: Of 211 captured rats, 82 apparently healthy rats were included in this study. After euthanatizing, 3-5-ml blood was collected by cardiac puncture. Approximately 0.5 cm3 of the kidney was collected for routine histopathology and stained using hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and Warthin–Starry (WS) stains. Blood smears were prepared and stained with the WS stain.

Results: All rats (100%) with different age groups were immunoglobulin G (IgG)-positive, and 90.24% of them had the IgG against leptospiral antigens in kidney tissues. The juvenile age group had higher IgG levels than other age groups. Considering sex, no significant differences in the overall results were observed. Serum concentrations of blood urea nitrogen and creatinine showed significant increments in the sub-adult and adult IgG- positive groups compared with the IgG-negative groups. No significant alterations were observed in the juvenile group. Using WS stains, 13 and 1 blood smears and 0 and 8 kidney tissues were positive for leptospires in the sub-adult and adult groups, respectively. Microscopical findings of the renal cortex and medulla in the sub-adult IgG-positive group showed hemorrhage, glomerular deterioration, tubular cell degeneration and necrosis with cast formation, periarterial edema, and focal hemorrhage with congestion of peritubular arteries. The adult IgG-positive group revealed deterioration similar to that in the sub-adult group and tended to be chronic. No leptospires were observed using H&E staining.

Conclusion: IgG-positive carrier rats refer to previously exposed or infected rats. Understanding the risk of transmitting the disease to human and animals through a carrier rat's urine is highly predicted and possible mitigation of zoonotic transmission.

Infection rate and genetic diversity of Giardia duodenalis assemblage C in Iranian stray dogs, targeting the glutamate dehydrogenase gene

Research (Published online: 16-02-2021)

13. Infection rate and genetic diversity of Giardia duodenalis assemblage C in Iranian stray dogs, targeting the glutamate dehydrogenase gene

Asghar Fazaeli, Mohammad Hasan Kohansal, Adel Spotin, Ali Haniloo, Abbasali Nourian, Alireza Khiabani, Abolghasem Siyadatpanah, Roghayeh Norouzi and Veeranoot Nissapatorn

Veterinary World, 14(2): 419-425

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Giardia duodenalis is one of the most common enteric protozoan parasites in vertebrates, such as humans, domestic and wild animals, causing giardiasis. To the best of our knowledge, little is known about the genetic diversity of G. duodenalis assemblages. This study aimed to identify genetic diversity of G. duodenalis assemblages in Iranian stray dogs.

Materials and Methods: A total of 450 fecal samples were collected from 2015 to 2016 from stray dogs of Northwest Iran. All specimens were observed microscopically following concentration and flotation techniques. Subsequently, DNA samples were extracted, amplified, and sequenced targeting the glutamate dehydrogenase gene.

Results: The overall prevalence of G. duodenalis in infected dogs was estimated at 1.6%, based on microscopic and molecular diagnoses. Sequencing and phylogenetic analyses indicated a high level of genetic diversity of assemblage C (haplotype diversity; 0.802).

Conclusion: The pairwise sequence distances between the identified isolates of assemblage C showed an intradiversity of 0.3%-1.3% and identity of 98.7%-100%. Current findings indicate that a significant genetic diversity of G. duodenalis assemblage C haplotypes is unequivocally circulates among stray dogs in Northwest Iran.

Keywords: genetic variation, Giardia lamblia assemblage C, glutamate dehydrogenase, Iran, stray dogs.

Prevalence of Schistosoma japonicum infection in water buffaloes in selected areas in Davao del Norte and Davao de Oro, the Philippines

Research (Published online: 16-02-2021)

3. Prevalence of Schistosoma japonicum infection in water buffaloes in selected areas in Davao del Norte and Davao de Oro, the Philippines

Rohani C. Navarro, Aleyla E. de Cadiz, Jordan M. Fronda, Lynnell Alexie D. Ong, and Vicente Y. Belizario Jr.

International Journal of One Health, 7(1): 12-18

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Schistosomiasis (SCH) japonica is a zoonotic disease that can infect several mammalian hosts. Bovines, particularly water buffaloes, are considered the most important reservoir hosts due to the high levels of schistosome eggs, they excrete into the environment. In the Philippines, the previous studies have revealed a high prevalence of SCH in bovines in selected provinces in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. However, there is a lack of studies on SCH in the Davao Region, Mindanao, where the infection remains a public health concern. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of SCH in water buffaloes in four barangays (villages) each in Braulio Dujali, Davao del Norte and Maragusan, Davao de Oro, Southeastern Mindanao, the Philippines.

Materials and Methods: Fecal samples from 91 water buffaloes were collected intrarectally, processed using the formalin-ethyl acetate sedimentation technique, and examined microscopically to determine the prevalence of SCH.

Results: A total of three water buffaloes (8.6%) in Maragusan were determined to be positive for Schistosoma japonicum, while none in Braulio Dujali. The prevalence of other parasites (Fasciola spp. [53.8%], Paramphistome spp. [20.9%], Amphistome spp. [16.5%], Strongyle spp. [11.0%], Balantidium spp. [9.9%], Eurytrema spp. [2.2%], and Gongylonema pulchrum [1.1%]) was also observed.

Conclusion: The results of the study provide baseline data on the presence of S. japonicum in water buffaloes in the Davao Region, Mindanao. Strategies for controlling and eliminating SCH in animal reservoir hosts, especially in water buffaloes, are necessary for the long-term control and elimination of SCH in humans.

Keywords: formalin-ethyl acetate sedimentation technique, prevalence, Schistosoma japonicum, schistosomiasis, water buffalo.

In vitro trichomonocidal potency of Naja nigricollis and Bitis arietans snake venom

Research (Published online: 16-02-2021)

2. In vitro trichomonocidal potency of Naja nigricollis and Bitis arietans snake venom

Tijjani Sabiu Imam, Zainab Tukur, Aisha Abdullahi Bala, Nuraddeen Bello Ahmad and Adamu Yunusa Ugya

International Journal of One Health, 7(1): 6-11

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Trichomonas vaginalis drug's limited efficacy and high toxicity, justify the need to explore other therapeutic agents, including animal toxins. In this study, the Naja nigricollis and Bitis arietans snake venoms were used to assess such trichomonocidal effect.

Materials and Methods: The median lethal dose (LD50) value for both snake species was calculated by probit analysis using a statistical package for the sciences version 20.0 with an LD50 of 4.04 μg/mL for the N. nigricollis, and no mortality was observed in the B. arietans envenomed rats.

Results: The trichomonocidal potency of the snake venom on T. vaginalis was evident with a growth inhibitory concentration of 89% with a half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 0.805 μg/mL in B. arietans while 95% for N. nigricollis at an IC50 of 0.411 μg/mL.

Conclusion: The statistical analysis of one-way analysis of variance shows a significant difference (p<0.05) between the venoms and positive control group (p<0.001), and there is no significant difference between each venom and its varying concentration (p>0.05). As the least concentration can be useful, interestingly, there is no significant difference in the efficacy of N. nigricollis and B. arietans to T. vaginalis (p>0.05); as such, either of the venom can be used for the treatment of trichomoniasis.

Keywords: Bitis arietans, Naja nigricollis, Trichomonas vaginalis, trichomonocidal activities.

The influence of low-fidelity simulator training on canine peripheral venous puncture procedure

Research (Published online: 15-02-2021)

12. The influence of low-fidelity simulator training on canine peripheral venous puncture procedure

Dayane Aparecida Francisco da Silva, Aline Angela Fernandes, Ana Evellyn Ventrone, Ariane Dias, Ana Maria Siqueira Silveira, Cecilia Laposy Santarém, Gabrielle Gomes dos Santos Ribeiro and Rosa Maria Barilli Nogueira

Veterinary World, 14(2): 410-418

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Blood collection from dogs is the most commonly performed procedure in the medical clinic. However, different factors can interfere with the quality of the material collected, potentially causing complications for patients. Simulated skill training is a teaching strategy designed to provide early training to students, develop their skills and self-confidence, and increase the procedure's success while reducing complications. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate skill training using a low-fidelity simulator in the peripheral venipuncture procedure and examine the training's influence on the in vivo procedure.

Materials and Methods: To assess skill training, this study used a low-fidelity simulator in the peripheral venipuncture procedure and examines the training's effect on the in vivo procedure. In total, 100 dogs, 65 undergraduate students, 3 veterinarians, and 4 previously trained evaluators participated. The canine in vivo venipuncture procedure was evaluated both before and after the simulated skill training and the low-fidelity simulator training. Data were collected on participants' self-confidence levels.

Results: Local complications occurred during in vivo practice; however, after training, they decreased. Gloves were more frequently used during the procedure, resulting in a reduction of both harvest attempts and complications, as well as increased levels of self-confidence in post-training participants. The simulator developed had low fidelity, low cost, and was easy to create.

Conclusion: Skill training in peripheral venipuncture using a low-fidelity simulator positively influences student learning, increases their self-confidence during in vivo harvesting, and reduces the complications of the procedure, improving patient well-being.

Keywords: canine, clinical skills training, evaluation, self-confidence, veterinary simulation.

Molecular detection of feline leukemia virus in clinically ill cats in Klang Valley, Malaysia

Research (Published online: 13-02-2021)

11. Molecular detection of feline leukemia virus in clinically ill cats in Klang Valley, Malaysia

Kunambiga Mummoorthy, Abd Rahaman Yasmin, Siti Suri Arshad, Abdul Rahman Omar, Saulol Hamid Nur-Fazila, Prem Anand, Liew Wuan Hoong and Kiven Kumar

Veterinary World, 14(2): 405-409

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is classified as Retroviridae gammaretrovirus. FeLV occurs worldwide, including Malaysia. Thus far, only one decade-old study on molecular characterization of Malaysian FeLV isolates exists, which resulted in a scarcity of updated information of current FeLV isolates circulating in Malaysia. This study was conducted to determine the status of FeLV in clinically ill cats and to study the molecular characterization and phylogenetic relatedness of the current isolates.

Materials and Methods: Convenience sampling was performed in 20 cats from the Gasing Veterinary Hospital in Selangor. Plasma and saliva samples were collected from 15 clinically ill cats and 5 healthy cats subjected to one-step reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction with primers targeting a highly conserved gene of U3-LTR-gag.

Results: Two clinically ill cats' plasma and saliva samples tested positive for FeLV RNA. Partial nucleotide sequencing and phylogenetic analysis revealed that the current isolates were 94-99% homologous to the previous Malaysian and Japanese FeLV isolates.

Conclusion: Current FeLV isolates from this study displayed higher similarity with the previous Malaysian isolates, signifying that a similar FeLV strain circulated among the cat population in Selangor.

Keywords: feline leukemia virus, Malaysia, one-step reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, phylogenetic analysis.

Neurobiology of anesthetic-surgical stress and induced behavioral changes in dogs and cats: A review

Review (Published online: 11-02-2021)

10. Neurobiology of anesthetic-surgical stress and induced behavioral changes in dogs and cats: A review

I. Hernández-Avalos, E. Flores-Gasca, D. Mota-Rojas, A. Casas-Alvarado, A. E. Miranda-Cortés and A. Domínguez-Oliva

Veterinary World, 14(2): 393-404

ABSTRACT

The anesthetic-surgical stress response consists of metabolic, neuroendocrine, hemodynamic, immunological, and behavioral adaptations through chemical mediators such as the adrenocorticotropic hormone, growth hormone, antidiuretic hormone, cortisol, aldosterone, angiotensin II, thyroid-stimulating hormone, thyroxine, triiodothyronine, follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, catecholamines, insulin, interleukin (IL)-1, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and prostaglandin E-2. Behavioral changes include adopting the so-called prayer posture, altered facial expressions, hyporexia or anorexia, drowsiness, sleep disorders, restriction of movement, licking or biting the injured area, and vocalizations. Overall, these changes are essential mechanisms to counteract harmful stimuli. However, if uncontrolled surgical stress persists, recovery time may be prolonged, along with increased susceptibility to infections in the post-operative period. This review discusses the neurobiology and most relevant organic responses to pain and anesthetic-surgical stress in dogs and cats. It highlights the role of stress biomarkers and their influence on autonomous and demeanor aspects and emphasizes the importance of understanding and correlating all factors to provide a more accurate assessment of pain and animal welfare in dogs and cats throughout the surgical process.

Keywords: cats, dogs, neurobiology, pain, stress, welfare.

Postpartum perineal muscle sonogram in Madura beef cow

Research (Published online: 10-02-2021)

9. Postpartum perineal muscle sonogram in Madura beef cow

Sari Yanti Hayanti, Amrozi Amrozi, Aryogi Aryogi and Mokhamad Fakhrul Ulum

Veterinary World, 14(2): 380-392

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Ultrasonography (USG) is useful for non-invasively identifying changes that occur in soft tissue architecture. The objective of this research was to demonstrate postpartum (PP) uterine involution through the changes of perineal muscle intensity and thickness in Madura beef cow by ultrasonography.

Materials and Methods: Madura's breed cows used in the research consist of eight non-pregnant (NP) cows and three PP cow. The transrectal and transperineal USG imaging of NP cows was performed on days 1, 33, and 65. USG imaging of PP cows was performed every day starting from day 1 (24 h after parturition) until day 21 PP. Transrectal USG of the reproductive tract was performed for the cervix, corpus uteri, and cornua uteri. USG was performed transcutaneously over the perineal area for coccygeus and levator ani muscles at the longitudinal and transverse angles. Reproductive tract diameter and perineal muscle intensity and thickness were measured with ultrasound imaging.

Results: The analysis of the sonogram of PP cows showed that the diameter of the cervix, corpus uteri, and cornua uteri decreased within 21 days PP. The transverse view of the coccygeus muscle of PP cows showed decreased muscle intensity and thickness. On the other hand, the longitudinal view showed increased coccygeus muscle intensity and thickness. The transverse view of the coccygeus muscle of NP cows showed increased muscle intensity, while muscle thickness was reduced. Sonogram analysis of the levator ani muscle of PP cows showed decreased muscle intensity with increasing muscle thickness. However, imaging of the levator ani muscle of NP cows showed a decrease in both intensity and muscle thickness. There was a significant difference in the mean value intensity of the scanning view analysis results of the levator ani muscle of the PP cow (523.6 AU increased to 672.1 AU) and the NP cow (515.9 AU decreased to 465.4 AU). Furthermore, there was a significant difference (p<0.05) in the mean value thickness of both scanning view analyses of the coccygeus and levator ani muscles of PP cows (5.8 mm increased to 6.5 mm and 3.8 mm increased to 4.8 mm, respectively) and NP cows (8.8 mm increased to 9.1 mm and 5.9 mm decreased to 4.9 mm, respectively).

Conclusion: We found that the perineal muscles, namely, the levator ani muscle and coccygeus muscle, change in size, and intensity during uterine involution as demonstrated on Madura beef cow.

Keywords: coccygeus, levator ani, Madura beef cow, postpartum, ultrasonography.

A spotlight on Raoultella ornithinolytica: A newly emerging life-threatening zoonotic pathogen

Review (Published online: 10-02-2021)

1. A spotlight on Raoultella ornithinolytica: A newly emerging life-threatening zoonotic pathogen

Wafaa A. Abd El-Ghany

International Journal of One Health, 7(1): 1-5

ABSTRACT

The genus Raoultella contains Raoultella ornithinolytica (R. ornithinolytica), which was previously named as Klebsiella ornithinolytica. R. ornithinolytica is a Gram-negative bacillus that belongs to the family Enterobacteriaceae. This pathogen is normally present in aquaculture, and it has been isolated from fish, insects, and wild and domestic birds. Seafood and poultry products are incriminated as sources of R. ornithinolytica infection. Community-acquired human infection with R. ornithinolytica is common. This infection is commonly associated with sepsis, bacteremia, food poisoning, purities, and urinary and respiratory tracts' infections. Rapid acquired resistance of R. ornithinolytica strains is common, and it is related to the development of resistant genes. R. ornithinolytica is considered as a newly emerging life-threatening pathogen world-wide. Hence, it is very important to determine the role of animals and birds in the epidemiological situation of this pathogen as well as the detection of antibiotic resistance genes before treatment.

Keywords: Animals, antibiotic resistance, birds, human, Raoultella, susceptibility.

A survey for potentially zoonotic parasites in backyard pigs in the Bucaramanga metropolitan area, Northeast Colombia

Research (Published online: 09-02-2021)

8. A survey for potentially zoonotic parasites in backyard pigs in the Bucaramanga metropolitan area, Northeast Colombia

Juan Carlos Pinilla, Elsa Morales and Angel Alberto Florez Muñoz

Veterinary World, 14(2): 372-379

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Backyard pigs farming is a rearing system associated with poor hygienic and sanitary conditions of the pig, often causing public health and food safety problems. Therefore, this study was conducted to investigate the occurrence of potentially zoonotic parasites in population pig reared under backyard farming in the Bucaramanga metropolitan area, Northeast Colombia.

Materials and Methods: From September to December 2019, a total of 558 fecal samples from 64 backyard pig farms were examined for the presence of enteric protozoan infection. The coprological diagnosis was done by direct examination using Lugol's iodine solution, buffered saline solution, and Kinyoun technique. In addition, blood samples were collected from 200 pigs. Serum was collected and used for the detection of Trichinella spiralis and Taenia solium cysticercosis infections, using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

Results: The overall prevalence of zoonotic protozoa in the Bucaramanga metropolitan area was 65.2%, reporting 52.7% prevalence for Balantidium coli, 33.7% for Entamoeba coli, and 5.7% for Cryptosporidium spp. Regarding the prevalence by municipalities, there was no statistical association (p>0.05), indicating that the prevalence was similar in the region under study. Pigs >7 months of age showed to be a risk factor for B. coli infection, indicating that the prevalence increases with the age, while pigs raised at >1000 masl and access to latrines, increased infection risk for E. coli and Cryptosporidium spp. infections. In the present study, T. spiralis infection was not detected in the analyzed sera, while T. solium cysticercosis infection was found to be 40.5%.

Conclusion: The high prevalence of protozoan infections and porcine cysticercosis reported in this study could be due to poor facilities, and lack of hygiene in the facilities, and suggests the possible transmission of these parasite populations between pigs and humans, thus increasing the transmission of parasites zoonotic potential. Therefore, appropriate sanitary management practices and deworming programs should be adopted to reduce the prevalence of these infectious agents.

Keywords: Colombia, cysticercosis, parasite, pigs, Trichinella, zoonotic.

Cocktail of chelated minerals and phytogenic feed additives in the poultry industry: A review

Review (Published online: 09-02-2021)

7. Cocktail of chelated minerals and phytogenic feed additives in the poultry industry: A review

Vishwanath Gopal Bhagwat, Ellusamy Balamurugan and Paramesh Rangesh

Veterinary World, 14(2): 364-371

ABSTRACT

This review article delineates the role of chelated minerals and phytogenic feed additives (PFAs) cocktail supplementation in improving the overall health status and production performance of poultry birds and its economic effects in the poultry industry. Organically complexed minerals have many advantages over inorganic sources. It has improved absorption and efficacy, which meets the bird's requirements comfortably with a low-dose level. Hence, inorganic forms can be replaced with lower-dose levels of organic minerals without any adverse effects on production performances in broilers and layers. PFAs possess medicinal properties, such as antimicrobial, antioxidant, adaptogenic, and immunomodulatory, therefore, could be recommended as supplements. They are also growth promoters that enhance the overall health status and augment poultry birds' production performance. Furthermore, the tremendous potential of PFAs could be extracted with the recent advances in science and technology. With the advantages of organically complexed minerals and multiple beneficial applications, there is a resurgence to develop PFAs as a cocktail of organic minerals to improve the overall health status of poultry birds and augment their productivity, which, in turn, helps the poultry industry to grow decisively and economically.

Keywords: chelated, cocktail, inorganic, organic, phytogenic feed additives, poultry, production performance, supplement, trace minerals.

Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell co-adjuvant therapy with albendazole for managing Toxocara vitulorum-rat model

Research (Published online: 08-02-2021)

6. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell co-adjuvant therapy with albendazole for managing Toxocara vitulorum-rat model

Faten A. M. Abo-Aziza, Abdel Kader A. Zaki, Ahmed I. Alajaji and Saleh M. Al barrak

Veterinary World, 14(2): 347-363

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Toxocara vitulorum is a bovine intestinal nematode. Immune pictures following infection are conflicting and stopping anthelmintic albendazole treatment recording reversed liver abnormalities. The purpose of this work was to evaluate the therapeutic potential of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs) therapy, subsequent to albendazole administration in rats infected with T. vitulorum.

Materials and Methods: The ultrasonographic and histopathological examinations as well as serum liver enzymes activity and the kinetics of recovery were investigated. The correlation of cell-mediated and humoral immune pictures was assessed by assaying immunoglobulins, splenocytes viability, phagocytic index, and Th1/Th2 cytokines.

Results: The cultured BMMSCs counting were 4.21×104 cells/cm2 with 96.03% viability. Flow-cytometric analysis indicated positive CD90 (82%), CD105 (79%) and negative CD34 (0.37%), CD45 (0.42%), attesting to the suitability of the isolated BMMSCs for use in therapy. Transplantation of BMMSCs after albendazole administration significantly reduced the release of liver enzymes (p<0.05) indicating liver cellularity improvement. The ultrasonographic, macroscopic, and histopathological findings confirmed the biochemical results. Significant elevation in the levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interferon (INF)-γ with a decline in interleukin (IL)-4 was observed in the untreated model (p<0.05). However, albendazole treatment followed by BMMSCs therapy significantly lowered the release of TNF-α and INF-γ, associated with significant production of IL-4 and IL-10 (p<0.05).

Conclusion: The final results indicated that the liver functions, histopathological findings, and immune parameters were aggravated after experimental T. vitulorum infection. Albendazole treatment followed by BMMSCs therapy was found to assist in regeneration of injured hepatic tissue. Besides, it appeared to modulate host defensive immune responses against T. vitulorum antigens. This work could define more clearly the events that manipulate the host immune, histopathological, and biochemical responses to minimize obstacles in using stem cell therapy in animal toxocariosis.

Keywords: albendazole, bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells, cell therapy, rat, Toxocara vitulorum.

Prevalence and fecal egg load of gastrointestinal parasites of Angora goats in four agro-ecological zones in Lesotho

Research (Published online: 05-02-2021)

5. Prevalence and fecal egg load of gastrointestinal parasites of Angora goats in four agro-ecological zones in Lesotho

Leballo G. Matsepe, Setsumi Molapo, Moeketsi Phalatsi and Mamajone Phororo

Veterinary World, 14(2): 339-346

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Goats are reared for their meat, mohair and other socio-cultural needs in Lesotho. Helminth infections are some of the major setbacks in the goat production industry due to their negative impact on animals' health, resulting in significant losses on meat and mohair production and death. A cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the prevalence, fecal egg infestation, and morphological identification of gastrointestinal parasites in goats.

Materials and Methods: Fecal samples were collected from 765 goats and subjected to McMaster egg counting techniques using the flotation method. Statistical analyses were performed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS v.26.0).

Results: The overall prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites was 94.7%, and the identified gastrointestinal parasites were nematodes (64.7%), coccidia (25.8%), and cestodes (4.2%). Haemonchus contortus was identified as the prevalent gastrointestinal nematode species found in goats. The prevalence and fecal egg count of gastrointestinal parasites were significantly higher (p<0.05) in goats located in the highlands and Senqu River Valley, while goats in the lowlands demonstrated a significantly (p<0.05) higher prevalence of H. contortus. Immature goats and kids were more significantly (p<0.05) prone to gastrointestinal parasites.

Conclusion: The nematodes and coccidia infestations were prevalent in goats located in the highlands and foothills, respectively, whereas nematode and coccidia fecal egg loads were higher in goats located in the foothills and Senqu River Valley, respectively.

Keywords: fecal egg counts, gastrointestinal parasites, goats, Haemonchus contortus, prevalence.

The deleterious effect of postpartum pyometra on the reproductive indices, the metabolic profile, and oxidant/antioxidant parameters of dairy cows

Research (Published online: 05-02-2021)

4. The deleterious effect of postpartum pyometra on the reproductive indices, the metabolic profile, and oxidant/antioxidant parameters of dairy cows

Yahia A. Amin, Rana A. Ali, Samer S. Fouad and Rawia M. Ibrahim

Veterinary World, 14(2): 329-338

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Postpartum uterine infectious diseases, such as pyometra, have discrepancy with both health and, subsequently, productivity of dairy cows due to its high prevalence and the high cost of treatment. Therefore, this study investigates the influence of pyometra on the reproductive indices, the metabolic profile, and oxidant/antioxidant parameters of the pyometric animal compared to those of healthy ones.

Materials and Methods: The study included 30 cows. The animals were differentiated into two groups of 15 cows each: A group of pyometra and a control group. All pyometric cows were subjected to breeding soundness examination after the end of pyometra and were compared to the control group. Blood samples were obtained to assess the levels of glucose, non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), triglycerides (TGs), cholesterol, albumin, total protein, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine, calcium (Ca), phosphorus, sodium, potassium, progesterone hormone (P4), malondialdehyde (MDA), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and superoxide dismutase.

Results: Results revealed significant prolonged duration of first estrus, the days open, and the required number of services due to pyometra. The pyometra group yielded increased levels of NEFA, TGs, ALP, BUN, creatinine, MDA, and progesterone hormone. In addition, significant decrease in the levels of glucose, cholesterol, albumin, Ca, phosphorus, sodium, TAC, GPx, and superoxide dismutase was observed in the pyometra group. Finally, no difference in the concentrations of total protein, ALT, AST, and potassium was observed in the pyometra group.

Conclusion: The reproductive indices was adversely influenced in cows with postpartum pyometra, and metabolic profile, involving energy balance signals and liver function indicators, revealed differences between the two groups. Increased levels of oxidative stress parameters and decrease levels of antioxidant levels were also found, suggesting that pyometra is an incentive for oxidative stress. Overall, checking the energy balance, metabolic imbalances, and oxidant/antioxidant profile, accompanied with pre-emptive procedures during the postpartum period, is essential and can reduce the chances of such diseases and possible noxious results in highly productive cows.

Keywords: dairy cows, metabolic profile, oxidant/antioxidant parameters, postpartum pyometra, reproductive indices.