Molecular epidemiology of helminth diseases of the humpback grouper, Cromileptes altivelis, as a pattern for mapping fish diseases in the Sunda Strait, Indonesia

Research (Published online: 27-05-2021)

35. Molecular epidemiology of helminth diseases of the humpback grouper, Cromileptes altivelis, as a pattern for mapping fish diseases in the Sunda Strait, Indonesia

Sri Subekti, Muhammad Kholiqul Amiin, Hervina Benazir Ardiyanti, Muhammad Aiman Yudarana, Ivan Achmadi and Rizhar Eman Karunia Akbar

Veterinary World, 14(5): 1324-1329

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Neobenedenia girellae and Haliotrema epinepheli are important but neglected helminth parasites of marine fish. The humpback grouper, the most relevant definitive host, harbors several Neobenedenia and Haliotrema spp. simultaneously on body surfaces and gills. These species can be distinguished morphologically This study aimed to identify Neobenedenia and Haliotrema spp. infestations in monogenean humpback grouper by multiplex polymerase chain reaction method, which seems to be widely distributed in the study area. Data can be used as a basis for mapping disease patterns in Strait waters.

Materials and Methods: Eighty humpback groupers (Cromileptes altivelis) were collected from eight different areas in the Sunda Strait and examined using scrapings from body surfaces and gill lamellae followed by multiplex PCR for identification.

Results: Parasites on body surfaces were recovered from 49 fish (61.2%) and were found on gill lamellae in 72 fish (90%) by microscopic examination. Endoparasites were absent. Ectoparasites identified included, N. girellae, Neobenedenia melleni eggs, Neobenedenia pasifica, Neobenedenia longiprostata, Haliotrema eukurodai, H. kurodai, Haliotrema leporinus, Haliotrema dongshaense, Haliotrema angelopterum, Haliotrema aurigae, Haliotrema scyphovagina, and H. epinepheli.

Conclusion: The distribution of trematode disease in humpback grouper in Sunda Strait waters was revealed. All parasites were from genera, Neobenedenia and Haliotrema. Risks associated with these parasites should not be overlooked. Prevention and control programs need to be extended to other marine fish. Humpback grouper should be dewormed more frequently.

Keywords: humpback grouper, multiplex polymerize chain reaction, worm disease.

Physiological status of broiler chickens with diets supplemented with milk thistle extract

Research (Published online: 26-05-2021)

34. Physiological status of broiler chickens with diets supplemented with milk thistle extract

Olga Bagno, Sergey Shevchenko, Antonina Shevchenko, Oleg Prokhorov, Anna Shentseva, Grigory Vavin and Elena Ulrich

Veterinary World, 14(5): 1319-1323

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: In recent decades, the use of various feed supplements is the current trend in poultry farming, among which phytogenics serve as alternatives to feed antibiotics. This study aimed to examine the effect of feeding various doses of milk thistle extract (Silybum marianum) on the morphological and biochemical parameters of the blood in broiler chickens.

Materials and Methods: Experiments were carried out in an industrial poultry farm on broiler chickens of the Hubbard ISA F15 cross for 40 days. One control group and five experimental groups of day-old chickens were formed. The number of birds in each group was 50. Broilers of all groups received complete feed, and the experimental groups received an additional milk thistle extract at doses of 0.1, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 mg/kg of body weight. Milk thistle medicinal plant extract was obtained using water-ethanol extraction followed by low-temperature vacuum drying. For the assessment of blood analyses, samples were collected from the wing vein of six chickens per group. Using unified methods recommended by the International Federation of Clinical Chemistry, the content of red blood cells, hemoglobin, white blood cells, total protein, protein fractions, triglycerides, glucose, calcium, phosphorus, and the concentration of alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase in the blood serum were determined.

Results: It was found that the introduction of milk thistle extract into the diet of broiler chickens with the aforementioned doses increased the number of red blood cells, hemoglobin, white blood cells in the blood, as well as a decrease in the level of albumin and an increase in the content of γ-globulins in its serum.

Conclusion: The authors assume that the introduction of milk thistle extract into a complete feed for broiler chickens increased the anabolic processes in their bodies, accompanied by increased use of proteins of the albumin fraction as the main material for organogenesis.

Keywords: blood biochemical composition, feed supplement, hemoglobin, milk thistle (Silybum marianum), red blood cells, white blood cells.

Comparative occurrence and antibiogram of extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing Escherichia coli among post-weaned calves and lactating cows from smallholder dairy farms in a parallel animal husbandry area

Research (Published online: 26-05-2021)

33. Comparative occurrence and antibiogram of extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing Escherichia coli among post-weaned calves and lactating cows from smallholder dairy farms in a parallel animal husbandry area

Chya Vannakovida, Kannika Na Lampang, Phongsakorn Chuammitri, Veerasak Punyapornwithaya, Khwanchai Kreausukon and Raktham Mektrirat

Veterinary World, 14(5): 1311-1318

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Inappropriate overuse of antimicrobials might be associated with the spreading of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria in animal-based food products. Extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Escherichia coli have been recognized as an emerging global problem in a One Health approach. This study aimed to assess the occurrence and antimicrobial-susceptible profiles of ESBL-producing E. coli among post-weaned calves and lactating cows in a parallel animal husbandry area.

Materials and Methods: Seventy-two pool fecal samples were collected from 36 smallholder dairy farms registered in Ban Hong Dairy Cooperatives, Lamphun Province, Thailand. Pre-enriched fecal samples were cultured in MacConkey agar supplemented with cefotaxime. The potential E. coli isolates were identified by not only biochemical tests but also polymerase chain reaction assay of the 16S rRNA gene. ESBL production was confirmed by the combination disk test. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed by the Kirby–Bauer disk diffusion method.

Results: The occurrence of ESBL-producing E. coli at the farm level was 80.56%. The different phenotypic antibiogram of ESBL-producing E. coli was observed among post-weaned calf and lactating cow specimens. The most frequent resistance patterns of ESBL-producing isolates from both groups were amoxicillin-ceftiofur-cephalexin-cephalothin-cloxacillin-streptomycin-oxytetracycline-sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim. For the median zone diameter, enrofloxacin-resistant isolates with narrow zone diameter values from lactating cow specimens were particularly more than post-weaned calf specimens (p<0.05).

Conclusion: These findings revealed the dynamic changes in ESBL-producing E. coli from calves and lactating cows in Lamphun Province, posing the inevitability to prevent bacterial transmission and optimize antimicrobial therapy in dairy farming.

Keywords: antibiogram, antimicrobial resistance, cattle, Escherichia coli, extended-spectrum β-lactamase, smallholder dairy farm.

Efficiency of high-carbohydrate fodder in the diets of Holstein cows

Research (Published online: 25-05-2021)

32. Efficiency of high-carbohydrate fodder in the diets of Holstein cows

Irina Mironova, Alexey Pleshkov, Azat Nigmatyanov, Elvira Yarmukhamedova and Sofia Islamova

Veterinary World, 14(5): 1303-1310

ABSTRACT

Aim: This study aimed to analyze the efficiency of carbohydrate-enriched rations fed to pasture and stall-housed cows.

Materials and Methods: Forty Holstein cows were divided into four groups of 10 animals each. The experiment lasted 305 days. All animals were kept under the same conditions, except for the amount of energy-carbohydrate rations fed. The control cows were on a standard diet. Experimental groups 1, 2, and 3 received a ration enriched with energy-carbohydrate components at 250, 500, and 700 g/head/day, respectively. Feed intake was measured on 2 consecutive days each month. During the balance trial, when young animals reached 13 months, feed intake was examined daily. Fodder, its residues, feces, and urine collected during the balance trial were used to determine nutrient digestibility and nitrogen exchange.

Results: Nitrogen balance was positive in all experimental animals. Cows in Group 3 made better use of the digested nitrogen. A biochemical blood test showed higher total protein content in the serum of the experimental cows than in the control by 1.47-3.49% (p≤0.05-0.001) in winter and 0.24-0.98% (p≤0.01) in summer. In winter, the serum protein level increased due to changed feeding routines and shorter exercise times, but did not exceed physiological requirements. The alpha- and gamma-globulins levels increased to 0.2-0.5 g/L in winter and 0.3-0.6 g/L in summer, and 0.5-1.4 g/L in winter and 0.1-0.2 g/L in summer, respectively. Beta-globulins decreased. The supplement had a positive effect on milk output, which increased by 67.1-137.3 kg (1.93-3.95%; p≤0.05-0.001) in the first 100 lactation days, then by 198.2-458.8 kg (2.39- 5.53%; p≤0.05-0.001) for the remaining days. All animals had a high milk yield coefficient, with the experimental groups having 0.64-2.64% more milk yield than the control. The lactation curves showed that the average daily milk yield of all experimental cows increased, then gradually decreased along the physiological trajectory from the 3rd month until the end of lactation. Milk quality analysis in the experimental groups indicated an increase in the dry matter content by 0.17- 0.27% (p≤0.001) in summer and 0.16-0.27% (p≤0.001) in winter; higher protein levels by 0.04-0.06% in summer and 0.03- 0.07% (p≤0.05) in winter; increased fat by 0.09-0.14% (p≤0.05-0.001) in summer and 0.09-0.13% (p≤0.05-0.001) in winter; increased density by 0.47-0.61°A (p≤0.05) in summer and 0.17-0.27°A in winter; and increased energy by 1.70-2.63% (p≤0.001) in summer and 1.57-2.54% (p≤0.01-0.001) in winter.

Conclusion: The energy-carbohydrate feed "Tanrem" can provide the required energy intake of Holstein cows. The maximum biological and economic effect wads attained at 500 g per animal.

Keywords: animal breeding, cows, diet, ration cuts.

Prevalence and molecular identification of Nematodirus helvetianus in camels in Iraq

Research (Published online: 25-05-2021)

31. Prevalence and molecular identification of Nematodirus helvetianus in camels in Iraq

Amer Rasool Alhaboubi, Ali Issa Fadhil and Shehala Rasool Feidhel

Veterinary World, 14(5): 1299-1302

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Camels from the central part of Iraq are infected with multiple parasitic diseases that have an economic impact by decreasing meat and milk production. This study aimed to evaluate Nematodirus spp. in camels (Camelus dromedarius).

Materials and Methods: The study animals consisted of camels slaughtered in the central area of Iraq at the Al-Najaf slaughterhouse. All ages and sexes of camels were examined. Worms were recovered and identified microscopically. For molecular characterization, two Iraqi Nematodirus spp. partial ribosomal genes (ITS1 and ITS2) were sequenced and submitted to the NCBI database.

Results: Of 160 camels tested, 29 were infected with Nematodirus spp. (18.13%). Twenty-one nematodes containing the Nematodirus genes were identified in the small intestines of naturally infected camels. BLAST analysis revealed 88.1% sequence similarity with that of Nematodirus helvetianus isolated in China and 87.2% similarity with N. helvetianus isolated in the United States.

Conclusion: The prevalence of N. helvetianus warrants the use of anti-helminthic drugs for these animals and a rationale for future control strategies to prevent the transmission of this infection to other livestock.

Keywords: camel, internal transcribed spacer, Nematodirus spp.

The role of Helianthus tuberosus powder in healing of full-thickness wounds in mice

Research (Published online: 24-05-2021)

30. The role of Helianthus tuberosus powder in healing of full-thickness wounds in mice

Ali Ghazi Atiyah and Nadia Hameed Rija AL-Falahi

Veterinary World, 14(5): 1290-1298

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Recently, many medicinal plants have received considerable attention in the medical field because of their role in the wound healing potential. This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of H. tuberosus powder on the healing pathway of full-thickness cutaneous wounds in a mouse model.

Materials and Methods: H. tuberosus powder was prepared by a freeze-drying process using a lyophilizer and its active ingredients were evaluated by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), while its antibacterial properties were evaluated by agar well diffusion assay. The percentage wound contraction was also assessed. Thirty mice were used, which were divided equally into two groups, a control group and a treated group. A full-thickness wound, 1 cm×1 cm in size, was established on the dorsal aspect of the thoracolumbar region, into which H. tuberosus powder was topically applied in the treated group. In contrast, the control group was left without any treatment. The animals were euthanized on days 7, 14, and 21 after wounding for histopathological study.

Results: The agar well diffusion method indicated the antibacterial activity of H. tuberosus, while the HPLC results indicated that the active ingredients of H. tuberosus powder mainly consisted of three major kinds of fatty acid. In addition, the macroscopic results of wound contraction rate and the histopathological outcomes of the healing process were significantly (p≤0.05) enhanced in the treated group compared with those in the control group.

Conclusion: H. tuberosus powder acts as an antibacterial agent with the ability to enhance the wound healing process.

Keywords: antimicrobial activity, fatty acids, Jerusalem artichoke, medicinal plants, wound healing.

Effect of exposure to different light colors on embryonic development and neurophysiological traits in the chick embryo

Research (Published online: 24-05-2021)

29. Effect of exposure to different light colors on embryonic development and neurophysiological traits in the chick embryo

S. M. Abdulateef, M. A. Al-Bayar, A. A. Majid, S. S. Shawkat, A. Tatar and M. Q. Al-Ani

Veterinary World, 14(5): 1284-1289

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Many environmental factors exist that influence embryonic development which is missing in the poultry industry, such as light in incubation facilities or hatcheries. Light plays an important role in the growth and development of chick embryos, whereas dark environments can lead to hatching failure or embryo distortion. Therefore, this study aimed to demonstrate the importance of light and its various colors on the growth and development of broiler chick embryos.

Materials and Methods: Four treatments were used to study the impact of various light colors on the growth of embryos and their neurophysiological traits: Dark without light (D), red light (RL), blue light (BL), and green light (GL), with three replicates per treatment (25 eggs/replicate) for a total of 300 fertile Ross 308 eggs. Each treatment was assigned to one incubator (75 eggs/incubator), whereas all other conditions were kept the same.

Results: The results showed a significant increase (p<0.01) in embryonic development for embryo weight, chick body weight, hatchability, and embryo index for RL, BL, and especially GL. RL, BL, and especially GL significantly increased (p<0.01) neurophysiological traits of the neurons, brain weight, and brain index.

Conclusion: The use of light during the embryonic period affects the development of the embryo and its neurophysiological traits.

Keywords: embryo, embryonic development, light color, neurophysiology.

The differences in the number of fibroblasts and blood vessels after the topical and systemic administration of Lactobacillus casei Shirota probiotics for the treatment of traumatic ulcers in Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus)

Research (Published online: 23-05-2021)

28. The differences in the number of fibroblasts and blood vessels after the topical and systemic administration of Lactobacillus casei Shirota probiotics for the treatment of traumatic ulcers in Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus)

Tuti Kusumaningsih, Anis Irmawati, Diah Savitri Ernawati, Chiquita Prahasanti, Mohammed Aljunaid and Sarah Amelia

Veterinary World, 14(5): 1279-1283

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: The use of drugs as a therapy for traumatic ulcers may lead to drug resistance and other side effects. Lactobacillus casei Shirota can affect the number of fibroblasts and blood vessels in wound healing. The aim of this study was to investigate the difference in the number of fibroblast cells and blood vessels after the topical and systemic administration of L. casei Shirota probiotics in Wistar rats with traumatic ulcer.

Materials and Methods: Overall, 36 healthy male Wistar rats aged 2-3 months old and weighing 175-250 g in body weight were used as a sample. Traumatic ulcer was made on the labial fornix incisive inferior. The subject rats were divided into groups: (1) A control group over 3 days, (2) a group that used distilled water over 7 days, (3) a group that underwent topical treatment over 3 days, (4) a group that used probiotics administered topically over 7 days, (5) a group that underwent systemic treatment over 3 days, and (6) a group that took oral probiotics for the traumatic ulcers over 7 days. The number of fibroblasts and blood vessels was observed through a hematoxylin-eosin examination.

Results: Based on the results of the study, a significant difference was observed in the number of fibroblasts (p=0.00) and blood vessels (p=0.018) in the 3-day topical group that underwent a 3-day systemic administration of probiotics compared with the number of fibroblast cells in the 7-day topical group and 7-day systemic group (p=0.00).

Conclusion: Overall, significant differences were observed in the number of fibroblasts and blood vessels in Wistar rats with traumatic ulcer after undergoing the topical and systemic administration of L. casei Shirota probiotics.

Keywords: blood vessel, fibroblast, Lactobacillus casei Shirota, systemic administration, topical application, traumatic ulcers.

Anthelmintic effect of Indigofera tinctoria L on Haemonchus contortus obtained from sheep in Indonesia

Research (Published online: 22-05-2021)

27. Anthelmintic effect of Indigofera tinctoria L on Haemonchus contortus obtained from sheep in Indonesia

Iskandar Muda, Joko Prastowo, Wisnu Nurcahyo and Sarmin Sarmin

Veterinary World, 14(5): 1272-1278

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Hemonchosis has resulted in huge economic losses for sheep farmers worldwide. Secondary metabolite compounds from Indigofera tinctoria L. can be used as anthelmintics. This study aimed to evaluate the in vitro and in vivo effects of I. tinctoria L. aqueous extract (IAE) as an anthelmintic against adult Haemonchus contortus isolated from sheep.

Materials and Methods: Ten active adult worms were placed in each Petri dish containing 25 mL of IAE, each having a different concentration of IAE (at concentrations 100, 120, 140, 160, 180, 200, and 220 mg/mL). Each experiment was repeated. The positive control used 1% albendazole, and the negative control used 0.62% saline water. The number of immobile worms and the time of mortality were recorded after 2, 4, 6, and 8 h. The dead worms were subsequently tested using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. In the in vivo study, 15 sheep with an average fecal egg count (FEC) of 1000 eggs per gram were treated with IAE for 9 days: Group A (negative control, saline water 0.62%), Group B (21 mg/mL), Group C (41 mg/mL), Group D (62 mg/mL), and Group E (positive control, albendazole 100 mg/mL). Measurements of the body weight, FEC reduction test, and hematology testing were performed on days 0, 7, and 14. SEM was performed using worms found from the abomasum of slaughtered sheep.

Results: The leaves of I. tinctoria L. contained a number of secondary metabolites, including total tannins, saponins, flavonoids, and alkaloids. The most effective concentration that killed the adult H. contortus worms was 220 mg/mL (93.33% mortality) after 8 h of treatment. The electrophoresis results showed that the protein band at a dose of 22% was less than that of the control. The highest FECR value of the treatment group on the 14th day after treatment was at a dose of 62 mg/mL. The highest weight gain as well as the highest increased hemoglobin (Hb), packed cell volume (PCV), and total erythrocyte count (TEC) values on the 14th day after treatment were at a dose of 41 mg/mL. The SEM results showed that IAE treatment caused the worms' anterior parts to become wrinkled with thick creases and cuticle abrasion (in vitro) and the anterior part to shrink along with the presence of aggregates in the worm cuticle (in vivo).

Conclusion: The aqueous extract of I. tinctoria contains tannins, saponins, flavonoids, and alkaloids and has an anthelmintic effect with decreased FEC, increased weight gain, Hb, PCV, and TEC, causing damage to the worms' body and reducing the protein profile of adult H. contortus worms.

Keywords: anthelmintic, Haemonchus contortus, Indigofera tinctoria, scanning electron microscopy, sheep.

An Estimate of Global Anthrax Prevalence in Livestock: A Meta-analysis

Research (Published online: 22-05-2021)

26. An Estimate of Global Anthrax Prevalence in Livestock: A Meta-analysis

Bylaiah Sushma, Seema Shedole, Kuralayanapalya Puttahonnappa Suresh, Gowda Leena, Sharanagouda S. Patil and Gowda Srikantha

Veterinary World, 14(5): 1263-1271

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Anthrax, caused by the soil-borne spore-forming bacteria called Bacillus anthracis, is a zoonotic disease that persists worldwide in livestock and wildlife and infects humans. It is a great hazard to livestock; henceforth, evaluating the global concerns about the disease occurrence in livestock is essential. This study was conducted to estimate the global prevalence of anthrax and predict high-risk regions, which could be an input to veterinarians to take necessary steps to control and avoid the disease.

Materials and Methods: A literature review was performed using online databases, namely, PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, Biomed Central, and Science Direct, to extract relevant publications worldwide between 1992 and 2020. Initially, 174 articles were selected, and after scrutinizing, 24 articles reporting the prevalence of anthrax were found to be adequate for the final meta-analysis. The statistical study was accompanied by employing fixed effects and random effects models using R.

Results: The pooled prevalence of anthrax globally was 28% (95% confidence interval, 26-30%) from 2452 samples through the fixed effects model. Continent-wise subgroup analysis through the random effects model revealed that the pooled prevalence of anthrax was highest in Africa (29%) and least in North America (21%).

Conclusion: In these publications, anthrax causes economic loss to farmers and, thus, to the world. Hence, controlling anthrax infections in high-risk regions are essential by implementing appropriate control measures to decrease the effect of the disease, thereby reducing economic loss.

Keywords: anthrax, livestock, meta-analysis, prevalence, subgroup analysis.

Data mining and decision support systems for efficient dairy production

Review (Published online: 22-05-2021)

25. Data mining and decision support systems for efficient dairy production

Sunesh Balhara, Rishi Pal Singh and A. P. Ruhil

Veterinary World, 14(5): 1258-1262

ABSTRACT

Gainful livestock farming requires selective breeding of animals with certain heritable desirable traits which gives profitability in terms of farm produce. Modern dairy animals are selected for traits which directly or indirectly contribute to high milk production. The concept of "feed conversion efficiency" in terms of milk production is now vigorously taken up by researchers and farm managers for recognizing and breeding efficient milk-producing animals. The whole concept of economic farming thus requires identification of "elite" animals, meeting above criteria as base population for the farm enterprise. Farmers and animal traders have been selecting best animals based on certain physical characters, which were also accepted by the breeding scientists as phenotypes. Data mining allows uncovering of hidden patterns in the data for better understanding of data relationship for developing suitable models for further improvements. Along with artificial intelligence techniques, data mining has opened new avenues for achieving high resource utilization efficiency and sustainable profitability in livestock production systems. The present review discusses and summarizes various data mining techniques and decision support systems for scientific dairy farming.

Keywords: dairy farming, data mining, decision support systems.

Exogenous bovine somatotropin and mist-fan cooling synergistically promote the intramammary glucose transport for lactose synthesis in crossbred Holstein cows in the tropics

Research (Published online: 21-05-2021)

24. Exogenous bovine somatotropin and mist-fan cooling synergistically promote the intramammary glucose transport for lactose synthesis in crossbred Holstein cows in the tropics

Narongsak Chaiyabutr, Siravit Sitprija, Somchai Chanpongsang and Sumpun Thammacharoen

Veterinary World, 14(5): 1247-1257

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Milk synthesis by the mammary gland is negatively influenced in part by high ambient temperature (AT). This study aimed to clarify the pathway of intramammary glucose utilization involved in mediating lactose synthesis during treatment with somatotropin under housing with misters and fans.

Materials and Methods: A single subcutaneous injection of 500 mg of recombinant bovine somatotropin (rbST) was administered 3 times once every 14 days to 87.5% crossbred Holstein cattle in early-/mid-/late lactation, under housing in a normal shaded barn and in a shaded barn with a mist-fan cooling system.

Results: The milk yields of the cooled cows tended to increase compared with those of uncooled cows and exhibited more potentiated effects in response to rbST treatment, coinciding with increases in mammary plasma flow and glucose uptake, but not in the mammary extraction of glucose. Treatment with rbST in the cooled cows resulted in a greater increase in the milk glucose concentration and a greater decrease in the milk glucose-6-phosphate concentration at all stages of lactation.

Conclusion: rbST treatment exerted its galactopoietic action more by local intramammary factors than by other extramammary factors at a low AT and the synergistic effect between rbST treatment and low AT increased the availability of intramammary glucose transport in activating the process of lactose synthesis.

Keywords: crossbred Holstein cattle, lactose, milk glucose, milk glucose-6-phosphate, mist-fans cooling, recombinant bovine somatotropin.

Seroprevalence and risk factors of West Nile virus infection in veterinarians and horses in Northern Palestine

Research (Published online: 21-05-2021)

23. Seroprevalence and risk factors of West Nile virus infection in veterinarians and horses in Northern Palestine

Ibrahim Alzuheir, Adnan Fayyad, Nasr Jalboush, Rosemary Abdallah, Sameeh Abutarbush, Mohammad Gharaibeh, Majd Bdarneh, Nimer Khraim, Mohammad Abu Helal and Belal Abu Helal

Veterinary World, 14(5): 1241-1246

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: West Nile fever (WNF) is a neurotropic, mosquito-borne disease affecting humans and domesticated animals, caused by a member of the genus Flavivirus. Over the last decades, this virus has been responsible for several cases of illness in humans and animals. The current epidemiological status of WNF in horses is insufficient, and in veterinarians, as an occupational hazard is unknown. This study aimed to investigate and determine the seroprevalence and risk factors for WNF in veterinarians and horses in Palestine.

Materials and Methods: In this study, serum samples from 100 veterinarians and 87 horses were collected between August 2020 and September 2020 from different cities of Northern Palestine. West Nile virus (WNV) antibodies were detected using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

Results: Our results showed that 60.9% of the horse serum samples were positive in all investigated cities. In horses, location is a risk factor for the seropositivity for WNF, whereas age, sex, breed, and intended use of the horses, were not associated with increased WNF seropositivity. In veterinarians, 23.0% of the serum samples were positive. Positive samples were detected in all locations, age groups, experience length, and work sectors. However, the seropositivity for WNF was not influenced by these variables.

Conclusion: The results revealed that WNV circulates in most regions of Palestine. Our results will help determine the risk of infection in animals and humans and control WNV transmission. Surveillance studies on humans, vectors, and animals are needed to better define endemic areas.

Keywords: enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, Flavivirus, horses, Palestine, veterinarians, West Nile virus.

Ethanol extract from Moringa oleifera leaves modulates brown adipose tissue and bone morphogenetic protein 7 in high-fat diet mice

Research (Published online: 21-05-2021)

22. Ethanol extract from Moringa oleifera leaves modulates brown adipose tissue and bone morphogenetic protein 7 in high-fat diet mice

Mas Rizky A. A. Syamsunarno, Fenty Alia, Neni Anggraeni, Vanessa Ayu Sumirat, Suhendra Praptama and Nur Atik

Veterinary World, 14(5): 1234-1240

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Brown adipose tissue's (BAT) ability to increase energy expenditure has become a new focus in obesity research. The amount and activity of BAT are inversely correlated with body-mass index and body fat percentage. Bone morphogenetic protein 7 (BMP7) plays a role in the differentiation and development of BAT, which can be increased by bioactive compounds from several medicinal plants. Moringa oleifera (MO) leaves are rich with vitamin, minerals, and bioactive compounds and have been used for treating obesity-related diseases in the past. The aim of this study was to explore the potency of MO leaf extract (MOLE) to modulate BAT differentiation in mice fed a high-fat diet (HFD).

Materials and Methods: Twenty-four, 5-week-old male Deutsche Denken Yoken mice (Mus musculus) were randomly divided into four groups: The normal chow diet group was fed a normal diet, the HFD group was fed a HFD, the HFD+MOLE1, and the HFD+MOLE2 groups were fed HFD and MOLE in a dose of 280 and 560 mg/kg body weight (BW)/day, respectively. The experiment was performed for 7 weeks. At the end of the experiment, histological analysis was performed on the interscapular BAT, and blood was drawn for BMP7 protein levels.

Results: After 7 weeks, BAT weight in the HFD group was nearly twice in the weight of the HFD+MOLE1 group (125±13.78 mg vs. 75±13.78 mg; p<0.001). There was also a significant increase in BAT cell density in the HFD+MOLE1 group. BMP7 serum protein levels were significantly higher in the HFD+MOLE1 group compared to the HFD group.

Conclusion: The administration of MOLE in a dose of 280 mg/kg BW/day in HFD-mice induces BAT differentiation and proliferation by upregulating BMP7 protein levels.

Keywords: bone morphogenetic protein 7, brown adipose tissue, high-fat diet, Moringa oleifera leaves extract.

Semen extenders: An evaluative overview of preservative mechanisms of semen and semen extenders

Review (Published online: 20-05-2021)

21. Semen extenders: An evaluative overview of preservative mechanisms of semen and semen extenders

Ghadeer Sabah Bustani and Falah Hasan Baiee

Veterinary World, 14(5): 1220-1233

ABSTRACT

Reproduction is fundamental for all living things as it ensures the continued existence of a species and an improved economy in animal husbandry. Reproduction has developed since history, and diverse processes, such as artificial insemination and in vitro fertilization, have been developed. Semen extenders were discovered and developed to protect sperm from harmful factors, such as freeze and osmotic shock, oxidative stress, and cell injury by ice crystals. Semen extenders preserve sperm by stabilizing its properties, including sperm morphology, motility, and viability and membrane, acrosomal, and DNA integrity. Therefore, semen extenders must provide a favorable pH, adenosine triphosphate, anti-cooling and anti-freeze shock, and antioxidant activity to improve semen quality for fertilization. Hence, this review provides precise data on different semen extenders, preservative mechanisms, and essential additives for semen extenders in different animals.

Keywords: additives to semen extenders, artificial insemination, cryopreservation, egg yolk-based extenders, lipid peroxidation, semen extenders.

Prebiotics mannan-oligosaccharides accelerate sexual maturity in rats: A randomized preclinical study

Research (Published online: 20-05-2021)

20. Prebiotics mannan-oligosaccharides accelerate sexual maturity in rats: A randomized preclinical study

Luiz Eduardo Rodrigues, Milena Miyoshi Kishibe, Rogeria Keller, Heliard Rodrigues dos Santos Caetano, Marcos Natal Rufino, Osimar de Carvalho Sanches, Ines Cristina Giometti, Rogério Giuffrida and Hermann Bremer-Neto

Veterinary World, 14(5): 1210-1219

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: The prebiotics, mannan-oligosaccharides (MOS), demonstrate the ability to increase probiotic microorganisms and fixation and removal of pathogens associated with chronic systemic inflammation in the digestive system. Inflammatory processes play an important role in modulating the brain-intestinal axis, including maintaining male reproductive function and spermatogenesis and regulating stress. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the action of MOS on testosterone and corticosterone concentrations and the reproductive system development of rats in the growth phase as an animal model.

Materials and Methods: In total, 128 male rats were used, randomly divided into four experimental groups (n=32): Control; MOS 1; MOS 2; and MOS 3. From each group, eight animals were sacrificed in four experimental moments (14, 28, 42, and 56 days, respectively, moments 1, 2, 3, and 4) and hormonal measurements and histological evaluations were performed.

Results: The results revealed the effect of diet, MOS, and timing on testicle weight (p<0.05). At moments 3 and 4, the groups supplemented with MOS showed higher concentrations of testosterone and decreased corticosterone levels throughout the experimental period. Groups supplemented with MOS showed an increase in the frequency of relative sperm and sperm scores. The radii of the seminiferous tubules presented a significant statistical effect of the diet, moments, and diet + moment interaction.

Conclusion: It was concluded that the three different MOS prebiotics brought forward sexual maturity.

Keywords: corticosterone, murine, prebiotic, reproductive system, testosterone, yeast.

Preferred and undesirable genotypes of bGH and bIGF-1 genes for the milk yield and quality of black-and-white breed

Research (Published online: 20-05-2021)

19. Preferred and undesirable genotypes of bGH and bIGF-1 genes for the milk yield and quality of black-and-white breed

Vadim Aleksandrovich Ulyanov, Bakhyt Zhanaidarovna Kubekova, Indira Saltanovna Beishova, Alena Valentinovna Belaya and Natalya Vladimirovna Papusha

Veterinary World, 14(5): 1202-1209

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: The market demand for the quality of milk and dairy products, in particular in terms of such indicators as fat content, the amount and composition of milk protein, etc., is growing. Thus, the need for the selection of dairy herds using genetic markers associated with qualitative traits of milk productivity is becoming urgent. This study aimed to determine the preferred and undesirable genotypes of the AluI polymorphism of the growth hormone gene and SnaBI polymorphism of the insulin-like growth factor-1 gene associated with milk productivity and quality indicators of the black-and-white breed. The genotypes of animals were determined by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP).

Materials and Methods: Samples of the black-and-white breed from Kazakhstan served as the research subjects. The polymorphism of the growth hormone and insulin-like growth factor-1 genes was determined by PCR-RFLP. The relationship of bGH-AluI and bIGF-1-SnaBI polymorphisms with productivity was assessed (fat, protein, and milk yield for 305 days of lactation, live weight, somatic cells, and milk production coefficient) by analysis of variance using Statistica 6.0 software.

Results: The black-and-white cows with the bGH-AluILV genotype had significantly higher milk yield in 305 days (3174.5±157.2 kg) than those with the bGH-AluILL (2940.0±152.6 kg) and bGH-AluIVV genotypes (2964.0±36.0; p<0.05). The milk fat content of cows with genotypes bGH-AluILV and bGH-AluILL (121.8±6.5 and 120.6±10.2, respectively) was significantly higher than those with bGH-AluIVV genotype (109.8±10.8; p<0.05). The black-and-white cows with the bGH-AluILV genotype (96.7±5.3) had significantly more milk protein than those with the bGH-AluILL (90.3±5.6) and bGH-AluIVV (86.9±4.6) genotypes (p<0.05). There were no statistically significant differences in the indicators of milk productivity of cows with different genotypes of bIGF-1-SnaBI polymorphism.

Conclusion: The results showed that the bGH-AluILV genotype was preferred for the black-and-white breed. The study demonstrated that genotype determined the relevant qualities, while the conditions of feeding, maintenance, and industrial technology provided the manifestation of this genotype. Thus, cows of the same (Wis Burke Ideal) line, having common ancestors in close (IV–V) ranks but living in different farming conditions, had large differences in milk productivity level. The variation was 2046 kg or 67.6% of milk per lactation.

Keywords: black and white breed, growth hormone gene, insulin-like growth factor-1 gene.

Antibiotic use in animal husbandry: A mixed-methods study among general community in Boyolali, Indonesia

Research (Published online: 19-05-2021)

15. Antibiotic use in animal husbandry: A mixed-methods study among general community in Boyolali, Indonesia

Hidayah Karuniawati, Mohamed Azmi Ahmad Hassali, Wan Ismahanisa Ismail, Taufik Taufik and Sri Suryawati

International Journal of One Health, 7(1): 122-127

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Antibiotic resistance is one of the most serious problems worldwide. One predictive factor of increasing antibiotics resistance is the use of antibiotics in animals. This study aimed to explore the use of antibiotics for animal husbandry in a general community in Indonesia.

Materials and Methods: A concurrent mixed-methods study was conducted. Data were collected from 407 respondents using a questionnaire, followed by an in-depth interview in 12 respondents. Data were analyzed both quantitatively and qualitatively.

Results: Forty-two (10.32%) of 407 respondents used antibiotics for animal husbandry. Of these 42, >60% occasionally bought antibiotics from the pharmacy without prescription and 50% used their leftover antibiotics. Respondents also bought antibiotics from food stalls and animal feed shops. Tetracycline and amoxicillin were the most common antibiotics used for animal husbandry. The majority of respondents used antibiotics for therapeutic purposes and received information about using antibiotics for animal husbandry from friends and neighbors. Most of the respondents used antibiotics for animal husbandry incorrectly and had never heard of antibiotics resistance.

Conclusion: Inappropriate antibiotic use in animal husbandry was common in the community. Education on the prudent use of antibiotics for animal husbandry is needed.

Keywords: animal husbandry, antibiotic resistance, antibiotics, mixed-method.

Suppression effect of thyme and carvacrol nano-emulsions on Aspergillus fumigatus isolated from patients in the intensive care unit of Assiut University Hospital, Egypt

Research (Published online: 19-05-2021)

14. Suppression effect of thyme and carvacrol nano-emulsions on Aspergillus fumigatus isolated from patients in the intensive care unit of Assiut University Hospital, Egypt

Alshimaa A. Hassanien, Walaa M. Elsherif, Rasha Hamed and Asmaa A. A. Hussein

International Journal of One Health, 7(1): 116-121

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Aspergillus fumigatus is a zoonotic fungus that causes several diseases in humans ranging from allergic reaction to fatal disseminated invasive infection, especially in immunocompromised patients. This study aimed to investigate the incidence of invasive A. fumigatus in patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) of Assiut University Hospital, highlight the factors associated with their infection, and determine the antifungal effect of thyme nano-emulsion (TNE) and carvacrol nano-emulsion (CNE) on isolated A. fumigatus strains.

Materials and Methods: Mycological culture method and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used in the identification of A. fumigatus in 630 blood samples collected from 210 patients. TNE and CNE at five concentrations (1%, 2%, 4%, 6%, and 8%) and average sizes of 90.3 and 75.6 nm, respectively, were characterized by transmission electron microscopy. Their effect on A. fumigatus isolate growth was evaluated by the well-diffusion method and SEM, which was used for the detection of the degenerative effect of A. fumigatus ultrastructure.

Results: A. fumigatus was detected in 54 of 210 (25.7%) patients in the ICU. Advanced age and chronic diseases were considered important risk factors for invasive aspergillosis, especially in patients with more than 1 clinical disease. TNE and CNE showed an inhibitory effect on A. fumigatus isolates, which significantly increased with high concentrations. The respective values for TNE at concentrations of 6% and 8% were 6±0.41 mm and 15±0.67 mm. CNE completely inhibited A. fumigatus growth at concentrations of 4%, 6%, and 8%, while mean inhibition zones of 22±0.68 mm and 30±0.32 mm appeared at concentrations of 1% and 2%. SEM demonstrated degenerative changes in A. fumigatus structure.

Conclusion: TNE and CNE can be used in bioactive treatments against A. fumigatus, and additional studies are required to determine the safe and effective doses and best method for application in human and veterinary medicine.

Keywords: Aspergillus fumigatus, carvacrol nano-emulsion, intensive care unit patients, invasive aspergillosis, scanning electron microscopy, thyme nano-emulsion.