Antimicrobial resistance profiles of Escherichia coli from swine farms using different antimicrobials and management systems

Research (Published online: 19-03-2021)

19. Antimicrobial resistance profiles of Escherichia coli from swine farms using different antimicrobials and management systems

Pramualchai Ketkhao, Sukanya Thongratsakul, Pariwat Poolperm, Chaithep Poolkhet and Patamabhorn Amavisit

Veterinary World, 14(3): 689-695

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: The emerging of antimicrobial-resistant foodborne bacteria is a serious public health concern worldwide. This study was conducted to determine the association between farm management systems and antimicrobial resistance profiles of Escherichia coli isolated from conventional swine farms and natural farms. E. coli isolates were evaluated for the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 17 antimicrobials, extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)- producing enzymes, and plasmid-mediated colistin-resistant genes.

Materials and Methods: Fecal swabs were longitudinally collected from healthy pigs at three stages comprising nursery pigs, fattening pigs, and finishers, in addition to their environments. High-generation antimicrobials, including carbapenem, were selected for the MIC test. DNA samples of colistin-resistant isolates were amplified for mcr-1 and mcr-2 genes. Farm management and antimicrobial applications were evaluated using questionnaires.

Results: The detection rate of ESBL-producing E. coli was 17%. The highest resistance rates were observed with trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (53.9%) and colistin (48.5%). All isolates were susceptible to carbapenem. Two large intensive farms that used colistin-supplemented feed showed the highest colistin resistance rates of 84.6% and 58.1%. Another intensive farm that did not use colistin showed a low colistin resistance rate of 14.3%. In contrast, a small natural farm that was free from antimicrobials showed a relatively high resistance rate of 41.8%. The majority of colistin-resistant isolates had MIC values of 8 μg/mL (49%) and ≥16 μg/mL (48%). The genes mcr-1 and mcr-2 were detected at rates of 64% and 38%, respectively, among the colistin-resistant E. coli.

Conclusion: Commensal E. coli were relatively sensitive to the antimicrobials used for treating critical human infections. Colistin use was the primary driver for the occurrence of colistin resistance in swine farms having similar conventional management systems. In the natural farm, cross-contamination could just occur through the environment if farm biosecurity is not set up carefully, thus indicating the significance of farm biosecurity risk even in an antimicrobial-free farm.

Keywords: antimicrobial resistance, colistin, swine farms, mcr.

Characterization of putative pathogenic Shewanella algae isolated from ballast water

Research (Published online: 19-03-2021)

18. Characterization of putative pathogenic Shewanella algae isolated from ballast water

Nik Nuraznida Nik Ibrahim, Nurathirah Mat Nasir, Fathul Karim Sahrani, Asmat Ahmad and Fareed Sairi

Veterinary World, 14(3): 678-688

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Shewanella algae is ubiquitous in marine-associated environments and has been increasingly recognized as a significant human pathogen that can cause serious infections mainly associated with exposure to seawater and ingestion of raw seafood. This study aimed to isolate and characterize S. algae from ballast water of ships berthed at Port Klang, Malaysia.

Materials and Methods: Ballast water was sampled from nine ships docked at Port Klang, Malaysia. The isolates were identified and characterized based on biochemical and enzymatic properties, 16S rRNA and gyrB sequencing, biofilm formation capability, and antibiotic susceptibility.

Results: A total of four S. algae isolates were isolated from four ballast water samples tentatively name Sa-BW1, Sa-BW2, Sa-BW7, and Sa-BW8. All isolates showed positive reaction for cytochrome oxidase, catalase, high tolerance to NaCl (6% and 8%), ability to grow at 42°C, and on Salmonella-Shigella agar. The strains also exhibited β-hemolytic activity on sheep blood and human blood agar, positive reaction for lipase, protease, DNase and gelatinase, strong biofilm adherence capabilities and multiple antibiotic resistances against ampicillin, carbenicillin, cephalothin, colistin, novobiocin, oxacillin, penicillin, rifampicin, and tobramycin which suggested their potential pathogenicity.

Conclusion: This study demonstrated the occurrence of putative pathogen S. algae in ballast water of ships docked at Malaysian port.

Keywords: ballast water, extracellular enzymes, putative pathogen, Shewanella algae.

Effect of feed additive "Ceobalyk" on the biological and microbiological parameters of African sharptooth catfish (Clarias gariepinus)

Research (Published online: 19-03-2021)

17. Effect of feed additive "Ceobalyk" on the biological and microbiological parameters of African sharptooth catfish (Clarias gariepinus)

Nurzhan Biltebaevna Sarsembayeva, Ardak Sabyrzhanovna Akkozova, Tolkyn Bakytovna Abdigaliyeva, Aida Bolatbekovna Abzhalieva and Aray Berkimbekovna Aidarbekova

Veterinary World, 14(3): 669-677

ABSTRACT

Aim: This study aimed to analyze biological and microbiological parameters of Clarias gariepinus bred at Chundzha natural hot spring in the Almaty region of Kazakhstan, a new feed additive, namely, the prebiotic "Ceobalyk."

Materials and Methods: Two groups (50 heads each) of fish of the same age were established and kept in specialized rectangular pools of AsylTasEngineering LLP. The experiment lasted 61 days. We used the feed additive "Ceobalyk", developed based on natural minerals. Feed additive was added to the feed of the experimental group of fish in an amount of 10% per 1 kg of the main diet. Laboratory studies were conducted at the laboratories of the Kazakhstan-Japan Innovation Center. The quality of the fish was studied in accordance with the standards of the Republic of Kazakhstan and interstate standards.

Results: In biological and microbiological studies of all samples of African sharptooth catfish, which received a new type of feed additive "Ceobalyk", the pH values of fish meat in the experimental groups were normal and varied in the range from 6.5 to 6.7. When setting up the reaction with copper sulfate, the reaction was positive. During bacterioscopy, there was a noticeable decrease in the number of microbes (2-3 bacteria less) in comparison with the control. An increase in the indices of the absolute body length and body width was observed by the end of the study. The body length in the experimental group was significantly greater (by 2.12% on average) than that in the control group. In the experimental variant, the average weight of fish was 21.8% higher. As a result of organoleptic studies, it was revealed that the musculature of the fish of the experimental groups was dense and elastic; when pressed on the skin with a finger, a fossa did not remain; the smell was specific, fresh. When tested by cooking, the broth was transparent and aromatic.

Conclusion: This feed additive "Ceobalyk" does not cause deviations in the physiological status of fish and can be used as part of the main diet.

Keywords: African sharptooth catfish, Escherichia coli, feed additives, microbiological parameters, quality, total viable count.

Microbiome structure in a recirculating aquaculture system and its connection to infections in sturgeon fish

Research (Published online: 18-03-2021)

16. Microbiome structure in a recirculating aquaculture system and its connection to infections in sturgeon fish

Nurlan Khabibullovich Sergaliev, Murat Galikhanovich Kakishev, Nurbek Satkanuly Ginayatov, Farida Khamidullievna Nurzhanova and Evgeny Evgenievich Andronov

Veterinary World, 14(3): 661-668

ABSTRACT

Aim: This study aimed to determine the bacterial composition at various stages of the temperature regime in a recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) to assess the pathological risk of a group of opportunistic pathogenic microflora.

Materials and Methods: Water temperature, incidences of illnesses, and fish mortality were monitored, during the research period to identify the causes of pathogens in sturgeons. Analysis of the nucleotide sequences was performed using the quantitative insights into microbial ecology module. Sequence alignment in the analysis of the distribution of gene libraries was performed using the Unclust method. The RDP database was used for the taxonomic identification of operational taxonomic units.

Results: The pattern of the contraction of infection among sturgeons bred in the RAS was established. A detailed analysis of the microbiome structure's taxonomic features showed dominant taxa during the "artificial wintering" period and at a temperature optimum in industrial aquaculture. It was found that the main outbreaks of pseudomonosis occurred during this period in the RAS. With a decrease in temperature of the aquatic environment, the incidence of illness increased by 75% compared with the optimum temperature period. Pseudomonas, Cetobacterium, and Lactococcus were specific taxa characteristic for the "artificial wintering" period. Xanthomonadaceae and Flavobacterium were specific taxa characteristic for the optimum temperature.

Conclusion: Consequently, the microbial structure was determined at different temperature regimes in a RAS, and the dominant communities were identified. The pattern of the contraction of infection caused by an opportunistic microflora (pseudomonosis) among sturgeons was established, allowing for the development and correction of treatment and preventive measures.

Keywords: metagenomics, microbial contamination, microbiome, recirculating aquaculture system, sturgeon.

Bacteriological quality of raw milk marketed in and around Guwahati city, Assam, India

Research (Published online: 18-03-2021)

15. Bacteriological quality of raw milk marketed in and around Guwahati city, Assam, India

Smita Kakati, Archana Talukdar, Razibuddin Ahmed Hazarika, Masuk Raquib, Saurabh Kumar Laskar, Girindra Kumar Saikia and Zakir Hussein

Veterinary World, 14(3): 656-660

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Milk is a highly perishable commodity, which is subjected to various types of contamination right from the farm level to the consumers' table. This study aimed to assess the quality of raw milk sold in and around Guwahati city based on the microbial load.

Materials and Methods: A total of 200 raw pooled milk samples collected from 25 different locations in and around Guwahati city were subjected to quality evaluation based on the methylene blue reduction test (MBRT), standard plate count, and coliform count as per the standard procedure.

Results: Out of the 200 samples evaluated, more than 50% of them were graded as poor to very poor quality based on the MBRT results. None of the samples could be graded as excellent quality and only 14.5% were graded as good quality. The standard plate count and coliform count of all the raw milk samples were found to be significantly higher than the legal standard. A highly significant (p<0.01) difference was observed for standard plate count and coliform count among the different locations in and around Guwahati city.

Conclusion: From the present study, it could be inferred that raw milk sold in most parts of Guwahati city do not confer to the legal microbiological standard and may pose a high risk of milk-borne illness among consumers of the city, which needs a systematic series of actions to be implemented properly.

Keywords: coliform count, methylene blue reduction test, raw milk, total viable count.

Patterns of blood biochemical parameters of peripartum dairy cows raised in either smallholder or semi-commercial dairy farms in Thailand

Research (Published online: 17-03-2021)

14. Patterns of blood biochemical parameters of peripartum dairy cows raised in either smallholder or semi-commercial dairy farms in Thailand

Supawit Triwutanon and Theera Rukkwamsuk

Veterinary World, 14(3): 649-655

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Data about dynamics of serum biochemical parameters and negative energy balance (NEB) related conditions differ among geographical areas or farm types. It should be cautious about applying those data to justify control and prevention strategies of NEB problems. Therefore, dynamics of blood biochemical parameters related to NEB condition of peripartum dairy cows raised in either smallholder (SH) or semi-commercial (SC) farms were studied.

Materials and Methods: Thirty-two healthy pregnant dry cows were selected from five dairy farms in Western part of Thailand, including 15 and 17 cows from three SH and two SC farms, respectively. Blood samples were collected at 2 weeks before the expected calving date, and 1, 2, 4, and 8 weeks postpartum to determine concentrations of glucose, non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA), and β-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA). Body condition scores (BCSs) and milk yields were also recorded.

Results: Dairy cows in both farm types suffered from NEB by elevation of serum NEFA and BHBA, and loss of BCS postpartum. Degrees of elevation in serum NEFA and BHBA were different between farm types. The SC cows showed more BCS loss postpartum, but lower serum NEFA. In the SH cows, even with less BCS loss, the cows showed high serum NEFA concentrations.

Conclusion: Dairy cows in our study entered NEB condition even with low milk yields. Moreover, elevation of serum NEFA and BHBA postpartum was higher in our studied cows as compared with other studies in high producing cows of commercial dairy farms in temperate areas.

Keywords: β-hydroxybutyrate, negative energy balance, non-esterified fatty acid, smallholder dairy farm, tropical area.

Effects of rumen-degradable-to-undegradable protein ratio in ruminant diet on in vitro digestibility, rumen fermentation, and microbial protein synthesis

Research (Published online: 17-03-2021)

13. Effects of rumen-degradable-to-undegradable protein ratio in ruminant diet on in vitro digestibility, rumen fermentation, and microbial protein synthesis

Ezi Masdia Putri, Mardiati Zain, Lili Warly and Hermon Hermon

Veterinary World, 14(3): 640-648

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Feeding ruminants must notice the degradability of feed, especially protein. Microbial rumen requires ammonia from rumen degradable protein (RDP) beside that ruminant require bypass protein or rumen undegradable protein (RUP) and microbial crude protein. The aim of the study was to discover the best RDP:RUP ratio in beef cattle diets commonly used by Indonesian farmers using an in vitro methodology.

Materials and Methods: Samples of Pennisetum purpureum, Leucaena leucocephala, Indigofera zollingeriana, cassava, maize, palm kernel cake, rice bran, and tofu waste were formulated into dietary treatments (dry matter [DM] basis). All experiments were carried out using a 3×3×2 factorial, randomized block design with three replications. Treatments consisted of three protein levels (12%, 14%, and 16%), two energy levels (65% and 70%), and three RDP:RUP ratio levels (55:45, 60:40, and 65:35). The experimental diets were incubated in vitro using buffered rumen fluid for 48 h at 39°C. After incubation, the supernatants were analyzed to determine pH, ammonia concentration, total volatile fatty acid (VFA), and microbial protein synthesis. The residues were analyzed to determine DM, organic matter, protein, and RUP digestibility.

Results: Increased protein, energy, and RDP levels increased digestibility, ammonia concentrations, total VFAs, and microbial protein synthesis (p<0.05), while rations with 16% protein lowered these parameters (p<0.05).

Conclusion: Increased dietary protein (from 12% to 14% DM), energy (from 65% to 70% DM), and RDP (from 55% to 65% crude protein [CP]) levels increased nutrient digestibility, ammonia concentration, total VFA levels, and microbial protein synthesis. The diet containing 14% DM dietary protein and 70% DM energy, which contained 55%, 60%, or 65% CP RDP optimally increased nutrient digestibility, ammonia concentration, total VFA levels, and microbial protein synthesis. Thus, feed based on these RDP:RUP ratios can optimize ruminant productivity.

Keywords: digestibility, microbial protein synthesis, protein, rumen characteristic, rumen degradable protein, rumen undegradable protein.

Global epidemiology of coronavirus disease 2019 and lessons for effective control of this and future pandemics

Review (Published online: 16-03-2021)

10. Global epidemiology of coronavirus disease 2019 and lessons for effective control of this and future pandemics

Emmanuel Okechukwu Njoga, Yusuf Feyisara Zakariya, Ishmael Festus Jaja, Chinwe Elizabeth Okoli and Philip Paul Mshelbwala

International Journal of One Health, 7(1): 78-87

ABSTRACT

Barely 1 year after severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) was first reported in China, the virus has infected approximately 120 million people, caused around 3 million deaths, and adversely affected the global economy. Despite stringent measures to flatten the epidemiologic curve of the pandemic, there have been spikes and waves of the infection in many countries, particularly in the American, European, and Asian continents. This review critically evaluated the global epidemiology of the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) to provide advice on other possible ways of managing the disease as various COVID-19 vaccines are being rolled out. To effectively control this and possible future epidemics/pandemics, there is a need to maintain a healthy balance between saving lives and livelihoods in the implementation of lockdowns. Unwarranted human exposures to animals, particularly pangolins, civet cats, bats, dromedary camels, and other wildlife known to be reservoirs and intermediate hosts of coronaviruses should be prevented. All the identified strains of SARS-CoV-2, including the highly infectious UK and South African variants, should be incorporated in COVID-19 vaccine production; to widen the protection spectrum. Some of the COVID-19 vaccines require primary inoculation, booster vaccination after 2-4 weeks and annual revaccination for adequate immunization against SARS-CoV-2. Survivors of COVID-19 may require only a single vaccine dozing and annual revaccination thereafter. Adoption of One Health approach and the development of globally coordinated active surveillance systems against emerging and reemerging zoonotic viruses are imperative.

Keywords: COVID-19, coronaviruses, emerging zoonoses, new variant SARS-CoV-2, pandemic diseases, SARS-CoV-2, public health.

Molecular detection of Staphylococcus aureus enterotoxin genes isolated from mastitic milk and humans in El-Behira, Egypt

Research (Published online: 16-03-2021)

9. Molecular detection of Staphylococcus aureus enterotoxin genes isolated from mastitic milk and humans in El-Behira, Egypt

Mohamed S. Diab, Nermin A. Ibrahim, Yasser F. Elnaker, Sherif A. Zidan and Marwa A. Saad

International Journal of One Health, 7(1): 70-77

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Milk is a chief source of many nutrients. However, we must also bear in mind that it is a potential source for many cases of food poisoning. This study was conducted to investigate the prevalence of cow mastitis and evaluate the presence of enterotoxins and antibiotic resistance patterns in Staphylococcus aureus isolated from milk and contact humans in El-Behira Province, Egypt.

Materials and Methods: A total of 680 milk samples from 170 cows and 86 human samples consisting of 43 hand swabs and 43 nasal swabs were analyzed. The milk samples were subjected to the California mastitis test.

Results: The general occurrence was 23.1% (157/680) where 48 quarters had clinical mastitis and 109 had subclinical mastitis. Subsequently, S. aureus was isolated in Baird-Parker agar where typical and atypical colonies were selected and submitted to coagulase and complementary tests. Out of 48 samples of mastitic milk studied, 16 (33.3%) showed contamination by S. aureus whereas 109 samples of subclinical mastitis showed contamination in only 18 (16.5%). On the opposite hand, of the 86 human samples, 33 revealed S. aureus contamination, corresponding to 38.37% of the samples. Furthermore, multiplex polymerase chain reaction targeting nuc and the staphylococcal enterotoxin-encoding genes sea, seb, sec, sed, and see were performed after culture, revealing that 88.2% (30/34) of milk samples and 93.9% (31/33) of human samples were variably positive to those genes.

Conclusion: The use of nuc gene based PCR is an accurate and rapid method for S aureus isolates detection. A high prevalence of multiple drug-resistant isolates of S. aureus recovered from both human and milk represents further evidence for possible veterinary hazards as well as public hazards, especially to those that consume milk from this region.

Keywords: antibiotic sensitivity, dairy production, enterotoxins, multidrug resistance, multiplex polymerase chain reaction, nuc gene, Staphylococcus aureus enterotoxin genes, Staphylococcus aureus.

Phylogenetic study of Theileria ovis and Theileria lestoquardi in sheep from Egypt: Molecular evidence and genetic characterization

Research (Published online: 13-03-2021)

12. Phylogenetic study of Theileria ovis and Theileria lestoquardi in sheep from Egypt: Molecular evidence and genetic characterization

Amira Adel Al-Hosary, Ahmed ElSify, Akram A. Salama, Mohamed Nayel, Ahmed Elkhtam, Layla Omran Elmajdoub, Mohamed Abdo Rizk, Manal Mohammed Hawash, Mohammad Ali Al-Wabel, Abdulaziz M. Almuzaini, Laila Salah El-Din Ahmed, Anand Paramasivam, Suresh Mickymaray and Mosaab A. Omar

Veterinary World, 14(3): 634-639

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Ovine theileriosis caused by Theileria ovis and Theileria lestoquardi is an important infectious disease affecting small ruminants in regions of the tropic and subtropic zones. There is limited studies about ovine theileriosis in Egypt; so the present study aims to assess the occurrence of ovine theileriosis in Egypt at the molecular level.

Materials and Methods: Blood samples were collected from 115 randomly selected sheep, which were apparently healthy; the ages of the sampled sheep ranged from 1 to 5 years old, from a local breed (barkae and balade), and showed no symptoms indicating infection with Theileria spp. The study was conducted in three governorates representing Lower Egypt (Menoufia and Beheira) and Upper Egypt (El-Wady El-Geded). All blood samples were subjected to polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and semi-nested PCR to target Theileria spp. 18S rRNA genes. Positive samples were sequenced, and these sequences were analyzed using nucleotide basic local alignment search tool (BLAST).

Results: Six animals (5.22%) were PCR-positive carriers for ovine theileriosis. Nucleotide BLAST and phylogenetic analyses of the six obtained sequences showed that T. ovis was present in five animals (4.37%) in Menoufia (n=2) and El-Wady El-Geded (n=3), whereas T. lestoquardi was detected in 1 animal (0.87%) in El-Wady El-Geded.

Conclusion: This study is the first to provide molecular evidence, genetic characterization, and phylogenetic analysis of ovine Theileria spp. in Egypt. Specifically, T. lestoquardi and T. ovis carrier statuses of sheep were confirmed. These results highlight the importance of developing an effective control strategy against ovine theileriosis carriers that might develop and/or spread theileriosis.

Keywords: Egypt, polymerase chain reaction, phylogeny, Theileria lestoquardi, Theileria ovis.

Molecular detection and identification of Babesia bovis and Trypanosoma spp. in one-humped camel (Camelus dromedarius) breeds in Egypt

Research (Published online: 12-03-2021)

11. Molecular detection and identification of Babesia bovis and Trypanosoma spp. in one-humped camel (Camelus dromedarius) breeds in Egypt

Shimaa Abd El-Salam El-Sayed, Mohamed A. El-Adl, Mayar O. Ali, Mostafa Al-Araby, Mosaab A. Omar, Mohamed El-Beskawy, Shimaa Sobhy Sorour, Mohamed Abdo Rizk and Magdy Elgioushy

Veterinary World, 14(3): 625-633

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Camels are a unique source of milk and meat, which helps recover from several diseases that affect humans worldwide. In Egypt, one of the great obstacles for this industry is tick-borne diseases. This study aimed to characterize blood parasite infections, such as Babesia (B.) bovis and Trypanosoma (T.) spp. in one-humped camel (Camelus dromedarius) (n=142) breeds in Halayeb and Shalateen, Egypt, through phylogenetic analysis.

Materials and Methods: The prevalence of B. bovis and Trypanosoma spp. was identified in camels using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays targeting the Rhoptry-Associated Protein-1 and internal transcribed spacer 1 genes, respectively. A nested PCR technique was conducted to detect B. bovis. At the same time, KIN multispecies PCR assay was employed to diagnose and classify trypanosome DNA in camels.

Results: B. bovis was detected in 4/142 camels with an infection rate of 2.81%. Sequencing and phylogenetic analyses revealed that the strain of B. bovis isolated from this population was closely related to strains isolated from Argentine, the United States, and Brazil. Moreover, Trypanosoma evansi was detected in 8/142 camels with an infection rate of 5.63%. Sequencing and phylogenetic analyses revealed that this isolated strain T. evansi was closely related to Trypanosoma theileri detected from cattle in Brazil.

Conclusion: The obtained data indicated the existence of B. bovis and T. evansi in camels from two provinces of Egypt. The obtained findings have economic significance and reflect the importance of implementing effective prevention and control methods across Egypt to reduce the incidence of B. bovis and T. evansi in camels.

Keywords: Babesia bovis, camel, Egypt, epidemiology, Trypanosoma spp.

The rabies distribution pattern on dogs using average nearest neighbor analysis approach in the Karangasem District, Bali, Indonesia, in 2019

Research (Published online: 11-03-2021)

10. The rabies distribution pattern on dogs using average nearest neighbor analysis approach in the Karangasem District, Bali, Indonesia, in 2019

Serli Eka Melyantono, Heru Susetya, Prima Widayani, I Wayan Masa Tenaya and Dinar Hadi Wahyu Hartawan

Veterinary World, 14(3): 614-624

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Rabies is a severe progressive encephalitis disease in dogs characterized as a zoonosis. The transmission of rabies between animals in Karangasem District, Bali is still high and continues until today; therefore, rabies in the district still actively circulating. The distribution pattern of rabies, especially in the district, is unknown. This research aimed to describe the spatial distribution of rabies in Karangasem District. The information would help in developing effective control strategies for the disease.

Materials and Methods: An observational study was carried out using 38 positive rabies cases confirmed by the direct fluorescent antibody test diagnosed at the Disease Investigation Centre of Denpasar from September 2018 to September 2019. The Global Positioning System was used to take the geographical coordinates of the places where positive rabies cases had been confirmed in Karangasem District. The ArcGIS version 10.3 (ESRI) was used to determine and analyze the distribution pattern using the average nearest neighbor (ANN) method.

Results: On the basis of the ANN analysis, the rabies distribution pattern in Karangasem District in 2019 was clustered in groups but not significant (Z-score=–1.670309 [<–1.65], p=0.094858 [<0.1]; nearest neighbor ratio=0.858364). The rabies distribution pattern in each subdistrict of Karangasem was dispersed significantly since it had z-score of more than 2.58, p-value less than 0.1 and nearest neighbor ratio of more than 1.

Conclusion: The rabies distribution in Karangasem District had a clustered pattern, although this was not significant. The grouping of rabies in Karangasem District showed a significant dispersed pattern in the subdistricts Abang, Bebandem, and Karangasem. The dispersed pattern of the rabies cases in the subdistricts was caused by unidentified stray dogs that lived in rice fields and other fields and by the whole district's hilly and mountainous topography. The ANN analysis suggested that for rabies control in Karangasem District, vaccination, elimination, and sterilization of stray dogs should be conducted in densely populated areas.

Keywords: average nearest neighbor, rabies distribution pattern, rabies.

Identification and distribution of Brachyspira species in feces from finishing pigs in Argentina

Research (Published online: 10-03-2021)

9. Identification and distribution of Brachyspira species in feces from finishing pigs in Argentina

Alicia Carranza, Julián Parada, Pablo Tamiozzo, Malena Flores León, Pablo Camacho, Gabriel Di Cola, Enrique Corona-Barrera, Arnaldo Ambrogi and Gustavo Zielinski

Veterinary World, 14(3): 607-613

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Brachyspira are Gram-negative, aerotolerant spirochetes that colonize the large intestine of various species of domestic animals and humans. The aim of this study was to determine the presence and distribution of different species of Brachyspira presents in feces from finishing pigs in Argentina.

Materials and Methods: Fecal samples (n=1550) were collected from finishing pigs in 53 farms of the most important swine production areas of Argentina, and Brachyspiras species were identified by bacteriological and molecular methods.

Results: The regional prevalence of Brachyspira spp. was at the level of 75.5% (confidence interval 95%, 62.9-87.9), and it was lower among those farms with >1001 sows. One hundred and twenty-eight isolates of Brachyspira were properly identified and the species found were: Brachyspira hyodysenteriae, Brachyspira pilosicoli, Brachyspira innocens, and Brachyspira murdochii. B. hyodysenteriae and B. pilosicoli had low prevalence (1.9% and 7.5%, respectively), B. innocens was isolated from 34% of the farms and B. murdochii was found in 39.6%.

Conclusion: The present study provides epidemiological data about herd prevalence of the different Brachyspira species in Argentina, showing that the prevalence figure seems to be higher than that reported in other countries.

Keywords: Brachyspira species, diagnosis, herd prevalence, intestinal spirochetes, swine.

Prevalence and molecular characterization of canine parvovirus

Research (Published online: 09-03-2021)

8. Prevalence and molecular characterization of canine parvovirus

Parikshit Singh, Gurpreet Kaur, Mudit Chandra and P. N. Dwivedi

Veterinary World, 14(3): 603-606

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Canine parvovirus (CPV) belonging to family Parvoviridae causes hemorrhagic gastroenteritis in dogs and heavy mortality in young dogs. The virus has three structural (VP1, VP2 and VP3) and two non-structural proteins (NS1 and NS2), VP2 being highly immunogenic. This study aims to study molecular epidemiology of CPV by sequence analysis of VP2 gene to determine the prevailing antigenic type(s) in the northern regions of India.

Materials and Methods: A total of 118 rectal swabs collected from dogs exhibiting clinical signs of CPV infection were processed for the isolation of DNA and subjected to polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and nested PCR (NPCR). A total of 13 NPCR products selected randomly were subjected to sequence analysis of VP2 gene.

Results: The percent positivity of CPV was found 28% and 70% by PCR and NPCR, respectively. Dogs with vaccination history against CPV too were found positive with a percent positivity of 24.10%. Gene sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of VP2 gene from these isolates revealed that most samples formed a clade with CPV-2a isolates.

Conclusion: Sequence analysis and phylogenetic analysis of VP2 gene in the studied regions of northern India revealed that CPV-2a was the most prevalent antigenic type.

Keywords: canine parvovirus, nested polymerase chain reaction, polymerase chain reaction, sequence analysis, VP2 gene.

Effects of oregano (Lippia origanoides) essential oil supplementation on the performance, egg quality, and intestinal morphometry of Isa Brown laying hens

Research (Published online: 09-03-2021)

7. Effects of oregano (Lippia origanoides) essential oil supplementation on the performance, egg quality, and intestinal morphometry of Isa Brown laying hens

Swanny Y. Ramirez, Lina M. Peñuela-Sierra and Maria A. Ospina

Veterinary World, 14(3): 595-602

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: The use of antibiotics as growth promoters in the feed of poultry, has contributed to an increase in the antimicrobial resistance of foodborne pathogens worldwide. Hence, the development of new effective alternatives to antibiotics that do not hinder productivity is imperative. For this, the aim of the present study was to determine whether oregano essential oil (OEO) extracted from Lippia origanoides is a suitable alternative to growth-promoting antibiotics (GPAs) for improving the performance, egg quality, and intestinal morphometry of ISA Brown laying hens.

Materials and Methods: A total of ninety-six 70-week-old ISA Brown laying hens were randomly assigned to four treatment groups with four replicates per treatment and six hens per replicate. The treatments consisted of four different diets that were formulated according to the nutritional requirements of the genetic line and the production phase with and without the addition of GPA and OEO: NC, which did not contain OEO or GPA; GPA, which included 50 ppm zinc bacitracin as a GPA; 80OEO, which included 80 ppm OEO and no GPA; and 150OEO, which included 150 ppm OEO and no GPA.

Results: All of the OEO and GPA treatment groups had a better feed conversion ratio than the NC group. However, the addition of 150 ppm OEO to the diet improved the percentage egg production and egg mass, as well as the external and internal quality of the egg compared with the other treatments. In addition, both the 80OEO and 150OEO treatments improved the yolk color, shell thickness, and shell color, as well as parameters related to the intestinal morphometry compared with the NC group.

Conclusion: The findings of this study indicate that 150 ppm OEO can be used as a substitute for GPA to improve the performance, egg quality, and parameters related to the intestinal morphometry of ISA Brown laying hens.

Keywords: egg quality, growth promoter antibiotic, intestinal morphometry, oregano essential oil, performance.

Pretreatment with Salvadora persica L. (Miswak) aqueous extract alleviates paracetamol-induced hepatotoxicity, nephrotoxicity, and hematological toxicity in male mice

Research (Published online: 08-03-2021)

6. Pretreatment with Salvadora persica L. (Miswak) aqueous extract alleviates paracetamol-induced hepatotoxicity, nephrotoxicity, and hematological toxicity in male mice

Mohd Alaraj, Tolgahan Acar, Irena Kosinska, Bahaa Al-Trad, Ammar M. Almaaytah, Mohamed J. Saadh, Mohammed A. Qumani, Shahid M. Syed, Khalil I. Altaif and Hossain Ashfaque

Veterinary World, 14(3): 589-594

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Paracetamol (PCM) ingestion is one of the most frequent global causes of toxicity. Salvadora persica L. is a plant that among many other effects exhibits potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticancer effects. In this study, we investigated the possible protective effect of S. persica aqueous extract in the PCM overdose-induced liver and kidney injury and hematological changes in a mice model.

Materials and Methods: Mice were given PCM with and without S. persica pretreatment. Blood cell counts and liver and kidney function biomarkers were measured. Liver and kidney samples were histologically examined.

Results: A single overdose of PCM caused significant elevations of alanine and aspartate transaminases, alkaline phosphate, bilirubin, urea, uric acid, and creatinine compared with the control group. In addition, PCM toxicity significantly lowered red blood cell count but insignificantly increased both white blood cell and platelet counts in comparison to the control mice. Pretreatment with S. persica significantly prevented PCM-induced changes in hepatic and renal biomarkers. S. persica also caused marked reversal of hematological changes. Histologically, the liver and kidney showed inflammation and necrosis after PCM treatment, which were significantly reduced in mice pretreated with S. persica.

Conclusion: Taken together, S. persica significantly inhibited PCM-induced renal, hepatic, and hematological toxicity, pointing to its possible use in the treatment of liver and renal disorders.

Keywords: hematology, kidney, liver, mice, paracetamol, Salvadora persica L.

Accuracy and precision guidelines for optimal breeding time in bitches using in-house progesterone measurement compared with chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay

Research (Published online: 08-03-2021)

5. Accuracy and precision guidelines for optimal breeding time in bitches using in-house progesterone measurement compared with chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay

Nutnaree Kunanusont, Darsaniya Punyadarsaniya and Sakchai Ruenphet

Veterinary World, 14(3): 585-588

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: The concentration of serum progesterone is commonly used to determine the optimal mating time in bitches, and to diagnose reproductive-related abnormalities. This study aims to compare the serum progesterone results obtained by rapid fluorescence immunochromatography assay (RFICA) with those obtained by chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay (CMIA) from the same serum samples to develop a standard guideline for optimal breeding time.

Materials and Methods: Serum progesterone levels were measured in 124 bitches using RFICA and CMIA. Simple linear regression and correlation analyses were performed to analyze the data. The percentage difference between the maximum and minimum progesterone values in the same serum sample in the same assay was compared using Wilcoxon's rank-sum test.

Results: The present study showed a strong linear dependence of the results obtained by RFICA on those obtained by CMIA as R2=0.8976, with regression coefficient of 0.9474 and p<0.05, including the regression model was CMIA = (0.9483 × RFICA) - 0.761. Moreover, five critical measurement times during estrous in bitches showed statistically significant differences (p<0.05), except at the fertilizable period, which showed a non-significant difference (p>0.05).

Conclusion: This study demonstrated that it is presumably acceptable to use the RFICA and CMIA methods interchangeably for quality progesterone measurements in serum samples from bitches. However, when considering the use of the RFICA method, it is advisable to carefully interpret the results and follow the interpretation guidelines. Finally, RFICA in the present study provides a reliable and convenient option for veterinarian practitioners to measure canine progesterone levels in-house.

Keywords: bitches, chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay, optimal breed timing, progesterone, rapid fluorescence immunochromatography assay.

Diversity and prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites with zoonotic potential of Green Monkeys in Bandia Reserve in Senegal

Research (Published online: 06-03-2021)

8. Diversity and prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites with zoonotic potential of Green Monkeys in Bandia Reserve in Senegal

Kacou Martial N'da, Laibané Dieudonné Dahourou, Oubri Bassa Gbati and Rianatou Bada Alambedji

International Journal of One Health, 7(1): 65-69

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Parasitic and infectious diseases are ubiquitous threats to primate and human populations. This study was carried out to study the diversity and frequency of gastrointestinal parasites with zoonotic potential in green monkeys in the Bandia Reserve located in Senegal.

Materials and Methods: For this study, 164 stool samples of Chlorocebus aethiops sabaeus (green monkey) were collected from October to November 2018 from Bandia Reserve. Stool samples were processed using the merthiolate-iodine-formalin staining technique and the modified Ritchie method. The slides were examined under a microscope and the identification of parasites was based on the morphology of protozoan cysts and helminth eggs. The analysis of data was conducted using R version 3.4.3 with p=0.05.

Results: A total of six species of parasites were found, including five protozoa (Entamoeba coli, Entamoeba histolytica/ dispar, Entamoeba hartmanni, Endolimax nana, and Iodamoeba butschlii) and one nematode (Strongyloides spp.). The overall prevalence of gastrointestinal parasite was 76.2% (95% CI: 69.7%-82.7%). Two parasites with zoonotic potential, mainly E. histolytica/dispar with a prevalence of 13.4% (95% CI: 8.2%-18.6%) and Strongyloides spp. with a prevalence of 6.7% (95% CI: 2.9%-10.5%), were found.

Conclusion: This study indicated that the monkeys of the Bandia Reserve are infested by zoonotic parasites and can, therefore, ensure transmission to visitors to the Reserve. The parasitological data that we report are the first available for these species of monkeys in the Bandia Reserve.

Keywords: Bandia, Chlorocebus aethiops sabaeus, gastrointestinal parasites, Senegal, zoonotic parasites.