Discrepancies in the efficacy of H5 inactivated avian influenza vaccines in specific-pathogen-free chickens against challenge with the Egyptian H5N8 clade 2.3.4.4 Group B virus isolated in 2018

Research (Published online: 20-08-2021)

20. Discrepancies in the efficacy of H5 inactivated avian influenza vaccines in specific-pathogen-free chickens against challenge with the Egyptian H5N8 clade 2.3.4.4 Group B virus isolated in 2018

Amena Abd El-Moeid, Ayman Hany EL-Deeb, Marwa Fathy Elsaied, Reem Ahamed Soliman, Mounir Mohamed EL-Safty and Hussein Aly Hussein

Veterinary World, 14(8): 2131-2141

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N8 virus of clade 2.3.4.4 was newly emerged to Egypt and firstly detected in carcasses of wild birds in November 2016. This study assessed the protection efficacy and virus shedding reduction of three different inactivated avian influenza (AI) H5 (H5N1, H5N2, and H5N3) commercial vaccines against challenge with two newly emerging highly pathogenic AI virus H5N8 Egyptian isolates in specific-pathogen-free (SPF) chicks.

Materials and Methods: 10-day-old SPF chicks (n=260) were divided into 20 groups (n=13). Groups 1-5 were vaccinated through the subcutaneous route (S/C) with 0.5 mL of H5N1 vaccine, Groups 6-10 were vaccinated (S/C) with 0.5 mL of H5N2 vaccine, and Groups 11-15 were vaccinated (S/C) with 0.5 mL of H5N3 vaccine. Positive control groups (16-19) were challenged at 25 and 31 days old (2 and 3 weeks post-vaccination [PV]) using H5N8 clade 2.3.4.4 A/duck/Egypt/ F13666A/2017(H5N8) and H5N8 clade 2.3.4.4 A/chicken/Egypt/18FL6/2018(H5N8). Group 20 was left non-vaccinated as a control. All vaccinated groups were divided and challenged with both viruses at 25 and 31 days of age. The viral challenge dose was 0.1 mL of 106 EID50/0.1 mL titer/chick, and it was administered oronasally. All chicks were kept in isolators for 14 days after each challenge. Sera samples were collected weekly and at 2 weeks post-challenge (PC) to detect a humoral immune response. PC mortalities were recorded daily for 10 days to calculate the protection percentages. Tracheal swabs were collected from the challenged chicks in different groups at 3, 5, 7, and 10 days PC. Kidneys and spleens were collected at 3, 5, 7, and 10 days PC and kept in formalin for histopathological examination to assess lesions and severity scores. Tracheal swabs were inoculated in 10-day-old SPF embryonated chicken eggs for virus titration and to calculate shedding levels.

Results: All studied vaccines displayed 70-100% protection within 10 days PC. Hemagglutination inhibition results from sera samples revealed antibody titers ranging from 0.6 to 5.4 log2 starting at 1-week PV with the highest titers at 4 weeks PV. Challenged SPF chickens exhibited a notable reduction in virus shedding, with an average of 1.5-2 log10, compared to control birds. Various histopathological lesions with different scores were detected.

Conclusion: Our findings suggest that the inadequate virus shedding reduction and protection efficacy of studied vaccines were variable and that the type of vaccine to be used under field conditions should be reconsidered. Study of the variability between the Egyptian old emerged AI (AIV) 2017 H5N8 strains and the new emerging AIV 2018 H5N8 is required to achieve optimal protection and limit the current economic losses.

Keywords: avian influenza, avian influenza viruses H5N8, clade 2.3.4.4, HPAI, H5 vaccines.

Correlation between age, testosterone and adiponectin concentrations, and sperm abnormalities in Simmental bulls

Research (Published online: 18-08-2021)

19. Correlation between age, testosterone and adiponectin concentrations, and sperm abnormalities in Simmental bulls

Abdullah Baharun, Syahruddin Said, Raden Iis Arifiantini and Ni Wayan K. Karja

Veterinary World, 14(8): 2124-2130

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Capacity for sperm production is affected by age, which is related to the morphology of sperm abnormalities and can affect fertility. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between age and concentrations of testosterone and adiponectin with sperm abnormalities in Simmental bulls.

Materials and Methods: The study used 11 bulls, separated into three groups. The first group consisted of five bulls aged 4-5 years, and the second and third groups each consisted of three bulls, aged 6-7 and 8-10 years, respectively. The average sperm motility of the animals ranged from 57.66±2.60% to 70.17±0.22%. Blood samples were obtained from the coccygeal region of the animals. Testosterone and adiponectin analysis was performed using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method. Sperm morphology was evaluated using carbol fuchsin-eosin staining according to the Williams method. Finally, correlations between testosterone and adiponectin concentrations, age, and sperm abnormalities were analyzed using Pearson's correlation analysis.

Results: The findings revealed a significant correlation (p<0.01) between the concentrations of testosterone and adiponectin (–0.538), age (–0.588), and abnormal sperm morphology (–0.912). Moreover, they revealed that the concentration of testosterone in the bulls aged 8-10 years was lower, at 21.89±4.56 ng/mL, compared to that in the bulls aged 4-5 years, at 36.15±1.29 ng/mL, and 6-7 years, at 35.16±5.39 ng/mL. The findings also revealed a positive correlation between adiponectin concentration and age (0.529) and sperm abnormalities (0.506). The increase in testosterone concentration was inversely related to the adiponectin concentration (–0.538). Moreover, the mean amount of abnormal sperm increased with increasing age: 3.82±0.33% in the group aged 4-5 years, and 4.40±0.72% and 10.20±1.97% in the groups aged 6-7 years and 8-10 years, respectively.

Conclusion: The study data indicate that there is a decrease in testosterone concentration, a high adiponectin concentration, and an increase in abnormal sperm with increasing age in bulls.

Keywords: adiponectin, age, Simmental bull, sperm abnormalities, testosterone.

Biochemical and physicochemical indicators of the quality of milk and meat obtained from cows with brucellosis

Research (Published online: 17-08-2021)

18. Biochemical and physicochemical indicators of the quality of milk and meat obtained from cows with brucellosis

Valeriy Alexandrovich Agoltsov, Stepan Yurievich Veselovsky, Olga Mikhailovna Popova, Tatiana Mikhailovna Giro and Nataliya Victorovna Solotova

Veterinary World, 14(8): 2118-2123

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Brucellosis is a disease occurring worldwide. Although it is mainly a cattle disease, it is extremely dangerous for humans. Milk and meat can be contaminated with Brucella. The present study aims to examine the biochemical and physicochemical indicators of the quality of milk and meat obtained from cows positively reacting to brucellosis in comparison with healthy animals.

Materials and Methods: Two groups of cattle meat samples (four muscles from different parts of the carcass) were obtained during slaughter at a specialized meat processing plant, and milk samples were examined from healthy animals (10 cows) and from cows positively responding to brucellosis (10 cows). For the milk samples, federal standards (GOST 32915- 2014 and GOST 25179-2014) and an atomic absorption spectrometer "Kvant-Z ETA" were used. To evaluate the chemical composition of the meat, the "Clover" apparatus and a tissue grinder (SM-3) were used.

Results: In the meat of cows that positively responded to brucellosis, compared with that of healthy animals, the amount of dry matter decreased by 1.2 times, amino ammonia nitrogen by 1.01 times, proteins by 1.2 times, fat by 1.28 times, volatile fatty acids by 1.09 times, tryptophan by 1.25 times, oxyproline by 1.14 times, and protein quality indicator by 1.21 times.

Conclusion: Despite the severity of brucellosis in cattle, the biochemical and physicochemical indicators of the quality of milk and meat obtained from the healthy and contaminated animals vary, although insignificantly.

Keywords: biochemical indicators, brucellosis, hydroxyproline, milk acidity, milk density, tryptophan.

Wound healing potential of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell conditioned medium: An in vitro and in vivo study in diabetes-induced rats

Research (Published online: 17-08-2021)

17. Wound healing potential of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell conditioned medium: An in vitro and in vivo study in diabetes-induced rats

Siufui Hendrawan, Yuyus Kusnadi, Christine Ayu Lagonda, Dilafitria Fauza, Jennifer Lheman, Erwin Budi, Brian Saputra Manurung, Hans Ulrich Baer and Sukmawati Tansil Tan

Veterinary World, 14(8): 2109-2117

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUC-MSCs) and its conditioned medium (CM) promote wound healing. This study investigated the wound healing potential of hUC-MSC CM in vitro and in vivo using diabetic animal models.

Materials and Methods: The CM from hUC-MSC CM prepared under hypoxic conditions (hypoxic hUC-MSC) was evaluated for stimulating rat fibroblast growth, collagen production (in vitro), and wound healing in animal models (in vivo). An excision wound on the dorsal side of the diabetes-induced rats was established, and the rats were randomly divided into non-treatment, antibiotic, and hypoxic hUC-MSC CM groups. The cell number of fibroblasts and collagen secretion was evaluated and compared among the groups in an in vitro study. By contrast, wound size reduction, width of re-epithelialization, and the collagen formation area were assessed and compared among the groups in an in vivo study.

Results: CM under hypoxic conditions contained a higher concentration of wound healing-related growth factors. Hypoxic hUC-MSC CM could facilitate fibroblast cell growth and collagen synthesis, although not significant compared with the control group. Re-epithelialization and collagen production were higher in the hUC-MSC CM group than in the antibiotic and non-treatment groups.

Conclusion: Hypoxic hUC-MSC CM possessed more positive effects on the wound healing process based on re-epithelialization and collagen formation than antibiotic treatment did.

Keywords: conditioned medium, diabetic induced rat, human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells, wound healing.

Subclinical mastitis: Prevalence and risk factors in dairy cows in East Java, Indonesia

Research (Published online: 16-08-2021)

16. Subclinical mastitis: Prevalence and risk factors in dairy cows in East Java, Indonesia

Himmatul Khasanah, Hidayat Bambang Setyawan, Roni Yulianto and Desy Cahya Widianingrum

Veterinary World, 14(8): 2102-2108

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Subclinical mastitis (SCM) is a disease that frequently attacks lactating dairy cows and possibly decreases production, causing economic losses to farmers. This study aimed to define the prevalence of SCM and risk factor-associated related management practice by dairy farmers in East Java, Indonesia.

Materials and Methods: The milk sample per quarter of individual lactating Friesian–Holstein cows (592 samples) was collected from 148 cows from 62 selected farms in the region with high dairy cattle populations in Malang, Sidoarjo, Mojokerto, Probolinggo, Pasuruan, Lumajang, Jember, and Banyuwangi. SCM determination was performed using the California mastitis test. A survey including field observation and interviews with farmers was conducted to find out the management practices of the selected farms. The analysis of risk factors was conducted by multinomial regression using the IBM SPSS version 26.0 (IBM SPSS Statistics, Chicago, USA).

Results: In addition, 68.18% and 66.72% at the cow and quarter levels, respectively, of the lactating dairy cows examined had SCM. In multinomial regression, four variables were significantly given impact in association with the SCM prevalence in identifying related lactation stage (odds ratio [OR]: 1-2 months=5.67, 2-6 months=9.435), teat wiping after milking (OR=42.197), house cleanliness (OR: dirty=0.120, moderate=0.527), and location (regencies) of raising the cows (OR: Sidoarjo=0.076, Mojokerto=0.165, Jember=1.210, Probolinggo=3.449, Lumajang=1.638, Malang=1.210, and Pasuruan=0.681).

Conclusion: The SCM prevalence in East Java is relatively high and a threat to the dairy industry's performance. This study found a significant association with SCM that needs to be considered in the practice of management to prevent and control SCM. However, the finding also suggested that hygienic management practices performed by farmers need to be improved to reduce SCM incidents.

Keywords: California mastitis test, lactating dairy cows, management practice, subclinical mastitis.

Immunodiagnosis of cattle fascioliasis using a 27 kDa Fasciola gigantica antigen

Research (Published online: 16-08-2021)

15. Immunodiagnosis of cattle fascioliasis using a 27 kDa Fasciola gigantica antigen

Mohamed J. Saadh, Samer A. Tanash, Ammar M. Almaaytah, Issam J. Sa'adeh, Saed M. Aldalaen and Khawla D. Al-Hamaideh

Veterinary World, 14(8): 2097-2101

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Diagnosis of fascioliasis depends on clinical symptoms and routine laboratory tests. Recently, antibodies and circulating antigens of Fasciola were used for detecting active infections. Therefore, this study aimed to identify Fasciola gigantica antigens in the sera of infected cattle using Western blotting and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for an accurate diagnosis of cattle infected with F. gigantica.

Materials and Methods: Serum samples were obtained from 108, 23, and 19 cattle infected with Fasciola gigantica, Paramphistomum cervi, and Strongylids, respectively, including 57 non-infected cattle that were used as healthy cattle for the study. Western blotting and ELISA were then used to detect circulating Fasciola antigens at 27 kDa.

Results: The target epitope was detected in an F. gigantica adult-worm antigen preparation, excretory/secretory products, and serum from cattle infected with F. gigantica. However, it was absent in sera from P. cervi, Strongylids, and healthy cattle. The purified 27 kDa F. gigantica (FPA-27) antigen was also detected in cattle serum using ELISA with high degrees of sensitivity and specificity (94% and 82%, respectively), and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.89 with a highly significant correlation of p<0.0001.

Conclusion: The FPA-27 is proposed to be a promising candidate for the serodiagnosis of fascioliasis in cattle.

Keywords: antigen, Fasciola gigantica, fascioliasis, immunodiagnostics.

Prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in cattle in Kalasin Province, Thailand

Research (Published online: 13-08-2021)

14. Prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in cattle in Kalasin Province, Thailand

Sirikanda Thanasuwan, Supawadee Piratae and Anupong Tankrathok

Veterinary World, 14(8): 2091-2096

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Parasitic infections are one of the major problems to the production of cattle in Thailand. The study was conducted to determine the prevalence of gastrointestinal (GI) parasites of cattle in Kalasin Province, Thailand.

Materials and Methods: A total of 333 fecal samples of cattle were collected directly from the rectum. The fecal samples were subjected to formalin-ethyl acetate concentration methods for examination. The eggs or oocysts were identified based on the morphology and size of the eggs or oocysts.

Results: Out of 333 fecal samples examined, 320 were found positive for GI parasitic infections with a prevalence of 96.09%. Overall, among the prevalence of nematodes, trematodes, and protozoa, the most prevalent parasites were Strongyle-type 278 (84.24%), followed by Strongyloides spp. 54 (16.36%) and Trichuris spp. 75 (22.73%), while Protozoan oocyst recorded Eimeria spp. amounted to 131 (39.7%). Fasciola spp. and Paramphistomum spp. were 67 (20.30%) and 81 (24.55%), respectively. Most of the positive fecal samples were infected with the double infection which has the highest prevalence rate of about 40.24%, followed by single, three, and 4-5 types of parasites 30.63, 16.82, and 7.21%, respectively.

Conclusion: This study suggests that Kalasin Province is highly endemic for GI parasites and this area may be an important source for an outbreak. Therefore, every household should deworm its cattle and eliminate and control snails as intermediate hosts. Findings from this study provide information that will assist in improving the cattle in Kalasin Province for better production and higher profitability.

Keywords: cattle, gastrointestinal parasites, prevalence.

Dynamic change of blood profile in rat models with acute skin injury artificially infected with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus

Research (Published online: 11-08-2021)

13. Dynamic change of blood profile in rat models with acute skin injury artificially infected with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus

Yos Adi Prakoso, Nurul Hidayah, Chylen Setiyo Rini and Kurniasih Kurniasih

Veterinary World, 14(8): 2085-2090

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: A wound is a common problem for humans and animals. The wound becomes more severe if it is infected by bacteria, such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). The wound healing mechanism involves various factors, either in the local tissue or the bloodstream. However, the presentation of infected wound healing regarding its impacts on the dynamic change of blood profile is not clearly understood. This study aimed to explore the impacts of wound creation on the blood profile in rat models with and without being artificially infected by MRSA.

Materials and Methods: Thirty male Sprague-Dawley rats (6 months old; weight, 300 g) were used as the model. They were divided into three groups: Without wound creation (C), wounded without infection (CW), and wounded and artificially infected by MRSA (CWI). Groups CW and CWI were shaved and induced with 4 mm two-round full-thickness biopsy on the back. Furthermore, group CWI was artificially infected by 105 colony-forming units of MRSA. The blood samples were collected through the tail vein from days 1 to 5. The blood parameters included blood profile, total plasma protein, C-reactive protein, CD4+, CD8+, CD4+/CD8+, and COX-2. The data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, version 16 (SPSS, IBM, Armonk, NY, USA).

Results: The result showed that the presentation of a wound with and without MRSA infection significantly changed the total erythrocytes, leukocytes, neutrophils, lymphocytes, total plasma protein, C-reactive protein, and the subset of circulatory CD4+, CD8+, and COX-2 (p≤0.05). In addition, the wound infected with MRSA impacts the mean corpuscular volume (p≤0.05).

Conclusion: Moreover, the presentation of the wound with and without MRSA infection induces dynamic changes on various blood profile parameters.

Keywords: blood profile, infection, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, protein profile, wound.

Effect of insulin-like growth factor-1 complex of Simmental bull seminal plasma on post-thawed Kacang buck semen fertility

Research (Published online: 11-08-2021)

12. Effect of insulin-like growth factor-1 complex of Simmental bull seminal plasma on post-thawed Kacang buck semen fertility

Suherni Susilowati, Imam Mustofa, Wurlina Wurlina, Indah Norma Triana, Suzanita Utama and Rimayanti Rimayanti

Veterinary World, 14(8): 2073-2084

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Kacang buck sperm is cryosensitive due to the seminal plasma of semen itself. Meanwhile, bull seminal plasma contains the insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) complex, which is cryoprotective. The addition of the crude protein of Simmental bull seminal plasma increased the quality of post-thawed semen of Kacang buck. The study was conducted to determine the effects of Simmental bull seminal plasma with IGF-1 on the fertility of post-thawed Kacang buck semen.

Materials and Methods: Buck semen was diluted in the following skim milk-egg yolk extender preparations: Without the addition of Simmental bull seminal plasma IGF-1 complex protein (T0); with the addition of 12-μg Simmental bull seminal plasma IGF-1 complex protein (T1); and with the addition of 24-μg Simmental bull seminal plasma IGF-1 complex protein (T2). The extended semen was packed in 0.25-mL straws and frozen. Post-thawed semen fertility was evaluated based on the following variables: Sperm motility, viability, intact plasma membrane (IPM), malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, capacitation status, and acrosome reaction. The difference in each variable among the groups was evaluated using analysis of variance, followed by Tukey's honestly significant difference test, at a 95% level of significance. Meanwhile, principal component analysis (PCA) was used to identify the principal component of semen fertility among the seven parameters.

Results: The T1 group showed the highest sperm motility, viability, IPM, and percentage of incapacitated sperm and the lowest MDA levels, percentage of capacitated sperm, and acrosome reaction. PCA revealed that sperm motility had a moderate to very robust correlation with other variables and is the most crucial parameter, accounting for 80.79% of all variables.

Conclusion: The IGF-1 complex in Simmental bull seminal plasma was useful for increasing the fertility of post-thawed Kacang buck semen, and sperm motility was the principal component of semen fertility.

Keywords: acrosome reaction, capacitation, good health and well-being, intact plasma membrane, motility, viability.

Prevalence, antibiotic susceptibility, and presence of drug resistance genes in Aeromonas spp. isolated from freshwater fish in Kelantan and Terengganu states, Malaysia

Research (Published online: 10-08-2021)

11. Prevalence, antibiotic susceptibility, and presence of drug resistance genes in Aeromonas spp. isolated from freshwater fish in Kelantan and Terengganu states, Malaysia

Nik Nur Fazlina Nik Mohd Fauzi, Ruhil Hayati Hamdan, Maizan Mohamed, Aziana Ismail, Ain Auzureen Mat Zin and Nora Faten Afifah Mohamad

Veterinary World, 14(8): 2064-2072

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: The emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacterial pathogens has been increasingly reported, which has resulted in a decreasing ability to treat bacterial infections. Therefore, this study investigated the presence of Aeromonas spp., including its antibiotic resistance in various fish samples, Oreochromis spp., Clarias gariepinus, and Pangasius hypophthalmus, obtained from Kelantan and Terengganu, Malaysia.

Materials and Methods: In this study, 221 fish samples, of which 108 (Oreochromis spp., n=38; C. gariepinus, n=35; and P. hypophthalmus, n=35) were from Kelantan and 113 (Oreochromis spp., n=38; C. gariepinus, n=35; and P. hypophthalmus, n=40) were from Terengganu, were caught using cast nets. Then, samples from their kidneys were cultured on a Rimler Shott agar to isolate Aeromonas spp. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to confirm this isolation using specific gene primers for species identification. Subsequently, the isolates were tested for their sensitivity to 14 antibiotics using the Kirby–Bauer method, after which the PCR was conducted again to detect resistance genes: sul1, strA-strB, aadA, blaTEM, blaSHV, tetA-tetE, and tetM.

Results: From the results, 61 isolates were identified as being from the genus Aeromonas using PCR, of which 28 were Aeromonas jandaei, 19 were Aeromonas veronii, seven were Aeromonas hydrophila, and seven were Aeromonas sobria. Moreover, 8, 12, and 8 of A. jandaei; 4, 3, and 12 of A. veronii; 6, 0, and 1 of A. hydrophila; and 3, 3, and 1 of A. sobria were obtained from Oreochromis spp., C. gariepinus, and P. hypophthalmus, respectively. In addition, the isolates showed the highest level of resistance to ampicillin (100%), followed by streptomycin (59.0%), each kanamycin and nalidixic acid (41.0%), neomycin (36.1%), tetracycline (19.7%), sulfamethoxazole (14.8%), and oxytetracycline (13.1%). Resistance to gentamicin and ciprofloxacin both had the same percentage (9.8%), whereas isolates showed the lowest resistance to norfloxacin (8.2%) and doxycycline (1.6%). Notably, all Aeromonas isolates were susceptible to chloramphenicol and nitrofurantoin. Results also revealed that the multiple antibiotic resistances index of the isolates ranged from 0.07 to 0.64, suggesting that the farmed fish in these areas were introduced to the logged antibiotics indiscriminately and constantly during their cultivation stages. Results also revealed that the sul1 gene was detected in 19.7% of the Aeromonas isolates, whereas the tetracycline resistance genes, tetA and tetE, were detected in 27.9% and 4.9% of the isolates, respectively. However, β-lactam resistance genes, blaTEM and blaSHV, were found in 44.3% and 13.1% of Aeromonas isolates, respectively, whereas strA-strB and aadA genes were found in 3.3% and 13.1% of the isolates, respectively.

Conclusion: This study, therefore, calls for continuous surveillance of antibiotic-resistant Aeromonas spp. in cultured freshwater fish to aid disease management and better understand their implications to public health.

Keywords: Aeromonas, antibiotic resistance genes, antibiotic susceptibility, freshwater fish.

Intra-articular injection in the hind limb joints of dromedary camels (Camelus dromedarius) using anatomical and arthrographic-guided landmarks

Research (Published online: 10-08-2021)

10. Intra-articular injection in the hind limb joints of dromedary camels (Camelus dromedarius) using anatomical and arthrographic-guided landmarks

Fahd Al-Sobayil, Madeh A. Sadan, Elsayed A. El-Shafaey and Jamal Allouch

Veterinary World, 14(8): 2055-2063

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: A healthy joint is an important structure for the proper movement of the camel limb. Intra-articular (IA) injection is frequently used in veterinary practice for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes of joint injuries. Thus, the current study aimed to describe the injection of the hindlimb joints in dromedary camels based on the anatomical and arthrographic-guided landmarks.

Materials and Methods: Eighteen orthopedically sound adult camels (mean±standard deviation age: 78±12 months) of both sexes were included in this study. Three camels were euthanized to identify anatomical features in the hindlimb joints and related structures. IA injections were performed in the hindlimbs of 5 camel cadavers to evaluate the optimal IA injection site, which was confirmed by arthrography. The optimized IA injection technique was applied in 10 live camels and confirmed by arthrocentesis and arthrography. For each joint, injection criteria (number of attempts, difficulty of injection, and successful injection) were assessed, scored, and statistically compared to the other joints.

Results: The summation of IA injection criteria scores was significantly higher (p<0.05) in the femorotibial, femoropatellar, tibiotarsal, fetlock, pastern, and coffin joints in comparison to the hip joint.

Conclusion: Anatomical and arthrographic-guided techniques offer considerable advantages for the characterization of anatomical landmarks and selection of the appropriate IA injection site in the hindlimb in dromedary camels. Furthermore, a reference approach for camels was established that is different from the approach for cattle and horses.

Keywords: anatomical, arthrographic, camels, hindlimb, intra-articular injection.

Determination of zearalenone in raw milk from different provinces of Ecuador

Research (Published online: 09-08-2021)

9. Determination of zearalenone in raw milk from different provinces of Ecuador

Byron Puga-Torres, Miguel Cáceres-Chicó, Denisse Alarcón-Vásconez and Carlos Gómez

Veterinary World, 14(8): 2048-2054

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Zearalenone (ZEA) is a mycotoxin from the fungus Fusarium. ZEA can adopt a similar configuration to 17β-estradiol and other natural estrogens. Problems in the reproductive function of humans and animals have been reported for ZEA and its metabolites. This study aimed to determine ZEA in raw milk produced in representative milk production areas in Ecuador.

Materials and Methods: A total of 209 samples were obtained in April and November 2019 (rainy season) and June and August 2019 (dry season). A competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay technique was used to detect ZEA concentrations.

Results: ZEA was determined in 99.5% (208 of 209) of the samples; however, all samples were below the maximum limits allowed (0.03-1 mg/L) in food for direct human consumption according to the Food and Agriculture Organization and European legislations. The mean (range) concentration was 0.0015 (0-0.0102) mg/L. The results did not vary significantly (p≥0.05) by cantons, provinces, weather, climate regions, types of producers, and production systems according to Wilcoxon and Kruskal–Wallis non-parametric tests. There were significant differences only between the months under study (p≤0.05).

Conclusion: ZEA in raw milk from Ecuador does not represent a threat to public health. However, it is recommended to continue analyzing ZEA due to its presence in milk. It could also be present with other mycotoxins that cause harmful synergistic and additive effects to consumers.

Keywords: Ecuador, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, raw milk, zearalenone.

Seroprevalence of bovine coronavirus and factors associated with the serological status in dairy cattle in the western region of Thailand

Research (Published online: 09-08-2021)

8. Seroprevalence of bovine coronavirus and factors associated with the serological status in dairy cattle in the western region of Thailand

Samnang Ven, Pipat Arunvipas, Preeda Lertwatcharasarakul and Niorn Ratanapob

Veterinary World, 14(8): 2041-2047

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Bovine coronavirus (BCoV) is a pathogen affecting the productivities of dairy cattle worldwide. The present study aimed to determine the seroprevalence and factors associated with BCoV serological status using a commercial indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the western region of Thailand. Blood samples were collected from 30 dairy herds. In total, 617 blood serum samples were tested using a commercial indirect ELISA for BCoV-specific immunoglobulin G antibodies. A questionnaire was used to collect data on the factors which have been identified as risk factors for BCoV antibody detection. The age and history of diarrhea of each animal were recorded. Fisher's exact test was performed to univariately assess the association between BCoV serological status and possible risk factors. Variables with Fisher's exact test p<0.10 were then evaluated using multivariate logistic regression to identify factors associated with BCoV serological status. The Bonferroni adjustment was used for multiple comparisons of significant variables in the final multivariate logistic regression model.

Results: No herd was free from antibodies to BCoV. The individual seroprevalence of BCoV was 97.89% (604/617). The prevalence within herds was in the range of 45.45-100%. Cattle >3 years of age were more likely to be seropositive to BCoV compared to cattle <1 year of age (p=0.003), with the odds ratio being 81.96. Disinfecting diarrhea stools were a protective factor for being BCoV seropositive, with odds ratios of 0.08 and 0.06 compared to doing nothing (p=0.008) and to clean with water (p=0.002), respectively.

Conclusion: BCoV seropositive dairy cattle were distributed throughout the western region of Thailand. The probability of being seropositive for BCoV increased with increasing animal age. Cleaning the contaminated stool with appropriate disinfectants should be recommended to farmers to minimize the spread of the virus.

Keywords: bovine coronavirus, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, risk factor, seroprevalence.

Biological and molecular characterization of a sheep pathogen isolate of Mannheimia haemolytica and leukotoxin production kinetics

Research (Published online: 07-08-2021)

7. Biological and molecular characterization of a sheep pathogen isolate of Mannheimia haemolytica and leukotoxin production kinetics

Dounia Bkiri, Noha Semmate, Zineb Boumart, Najete Safini, Fatima Zohra Fakri, Zahra Bamouh, Khalid Omari Tadlaoui, Siham Fellahi, Noursaid Tligui, Ouafaa Fassi Fihri and Mehdi El Harrak

Veterinary World, 14(8): 2031-2040

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Mannheimia haemolytica (Mha) is a common agent of pneumonia in ruminants globally, causing economic losses by morbidity, mortality, and treatment costs. Infection by Mha is often associated with or promoted by respiratory viral pathogens and environmental conditions. Infections due to Mha have rarely been described in small ruminants. This study reports the biological and molecular characteristics of a new Moroccan Mha isolate from small ruminants presenting typical respiratory symptoms. We also studied the cultural parameters, growth kinetics, and Lkt excretion of the isolate and its pathogenicity on laboratory animals and small ruminants.

Materials and Methods: Suspected pasteurellosis cases in sheep and goat flocks in Morocco were investigated. A local strain of Mha was isolated and identified using biochemical and molecular methods. Polymerase chain reaction-targeting specific genes were used for serotyping and phylogenetic analyses; further, leukotoxin production, cytotoxicity, and pathogenicity of the isolate in mice, goats, and sheep were investigated.

Results: Phylogeny analysis revealed 98.76% sequence identity with the USA isolate of 2013; the strain growth with a cycle of 9-10 h with leukotoxin secretion was detected by NETosis and quantified by cytotoxicity and mortality of mice. Goat and sheep infections cause hyperthermia, with characteristic postmortem lesions in the trachea and lung.

Conclusion: A local isolate of Mha from sheep that died of pneumonia was characterized for the 1st time in North Africa using biological and molecular methods. Although growth on appropriate culture media is accompanied by intense leukotoxin secretion, experimental infections of sheep and goats cause hyperthermia and typical lesions of pneumonia.

Keywords: histopathology, isolation, leukotoxin, Mannheimia haemolytica, phylogeny, polymerase chain reaction.

Prevalence and antimicrobial resistance phenotypes of Salmonella species recovered at various stages of broiler operations in Hathazari, Bangladesh

Research (Published online: 07-08-2021)

2. Prevalence and antimicrobial resistance phenotypes of Salmonella species recovered at various stages of broiler operations in Hathazari, Bangladesh

Ferdausi Ali, Tazriyan Noor Silvy, Tanim Jabid Hossain, Md. Kamal Uddin and Mohammad Seraj Uddin

International Journal of One Health, 7(2): 158-164

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Dissemination of multidrug-resistant (MDR) Salmonella through food chains has serious health implications, with higher rates of morbidity and mortality. Broiler meat remains a major reservoir of Salmonella contamination. The lack of proper hygiene in local broiler operations has, therefore, prompted this research into the assessment of Salmonella contamination in local shops and associated antimicrobial resistance (AMR) phenotypes.

Materials and Methods: A total of 55 broiler samples including skin, meat, and swab samples from chopping and dressing sites were included in the study. The samples were collected from broiler shops in Hathazari, Bangladesh, and screened for the presence of Salmonella strains using culture-based methods. The isolates were biochemically characterized and further tested for AMR to eight common antibiotics using the disk diffusion technique.

Results: Salmonella contaminations were identified in 29% (16/55) of the broiler samples. Swab samples collected from the chopping sites appeared to be contaminated in higher proportions (33%) than those collected from the dressing areas (25%). On the other hand, the skin samples (50%) were detected with a higher percentage of contamination than the meat samples (25%). All Salmonella isolates showed resistance toward at least one of the eight antibiotics used. Although none of the isolates was resistant to all antibiotics, 18.75% showed resistance to a maximum of seven antibiotics. Resistance to nalidixic acid was most prevalent (87.5%), followed by sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim (81.25%), erythromycin (81.25%), tetracycline (75%), streptomycin (56.25%), ampicillin-clavulanic acid (50%), chloramphenicol (43.75%), and cefotaxime (18.75%). The resistance patterns of the isolates were found to be highly diverse. The most frequently observed pattern was the following: Ampicillin-clavulanic acid-sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim-nalidixic acid-tetracycline-chloramphenicol-streptomycin-erythromycin.

Conclusion: The relatively high prevalence of MDR strains in the samples underlies an urgent need for surveillance and control measures concerning hygiene and antibiotic use in local broiler operations.

Keywords: antimicrobial resistance, chicken meat, multidrug-resistant, Salmonella, salmonellosis.

A scoping review on data integration in the field of infectious diseases, 2009-2018

Research (Published online: 07-08-2021)

1. A scoping review on data integration in the field of infectious diseases, 2009-2018

Seulgi Kim, Chulwoo Rhee, Su Jin Kang and Sangwoo Tak

International Journal of One Health, 7(2): 151-157

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Little is known about data integration in public health research and its impact. This study aimed to summarize known collaboration information, the characteristics of the datasets used, the methods of data integration, and knowledge gaps.

Materials and Methods: We reviewed papers on infectious diseases from two or more datasets published during 2009- 2018, before the coronavirus disease pandemic. Two independent researchers searched the Medline and Global Health databases using predetermined criteria.

Results: Of the 2375 items retrieved, 2272 titles and abstracts were reviewed. Of these, 164 were secondary reviews. Full-text reviews identified 153 relevant articles; we excluded 11 papers that did not meet our inclusion criteria. Of the 153 papers, 150 were single-country studies. Most papers were from North America (n=47). Viral diseases were the most commonly researched diseases (n=66), and many studies sought to define infection rates (n=62). Data integration usually employed unique national identifiers (n=37) or address-based identifiers (n=30). Two data sources were combined (n=121), and at least one data source typically included routine surveillance information.

Conclusion: We found a growing usage of data integration in infectious diseases, emphasizing the advantages of data integration and linkage analysis, and reiterating its importance in public health emergency preparedness and response.

Keywords: data integration, infectious disease, national policy, public health, scoping review, surveillance.

Prevalence of anti-leptospiral antibodies and frequency distribution of Leptospira serovars in small ruminants in enzootic South Peninsular India

Research (Published online: 06-08-2021)

6. Prevalence of anti-leptospiral antibodies and frequency distribution of Leptospira serovars in small ruminants in enzootic South Peninsular India

Vinayagamurthy Balamurugan, Anusha Alamuri, Kirubakaran Vinod Kumar, Bibitha Varghese, Gurrappanaidu Govindaraj, Divakar Hemadri and Parimal Roy

Veterinary World, 14(8): 2023-2030

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: For understanding the epidemiology of leptospirosis, the confined abundance of several species of pathogenic leptospires and knowledge on the serovar(s) prevalent in the reservoir and carrier hosts may be a useful indicator of transmission to incidental/accidental hosts in a geographical niche. The present study was carried out to ascertain the frequency distribution of Leptospira serovars and the prevalence of anti-leptospiral antibodies in small ruminants (sheep and goats) in the epidemiological units (villages) in the coastal districts of enzootic regions in South Peninsular India.

Materials and Methods: A total of 1167 serum samples (sheep n=299 and goats n=868) from apparently healthy animals, randomly collected from various epidemiological units were tested in microscopic agglutination test (MAT) using 18 reference Leptospira serovars antigens.

Results: The overall seroprevalence of 40% (at 95% confidence intervals [CI]: 36.82-42.43) in small ruminants (44% [95% CI: 40.49-52.26] in sheep and 38% [95% CI: 34.96-41.41] in goats) was observed with the predominance of Icterohaemorrhagiae, Javanica, Australis, Hurstbridge, and Pyrogenes serogroup anti-leptospiral antibodies in the studied region. The Chi-squared test revealed that the presence of anti-leptospiral antibodies is significantly not independent (associated) across the administrative division (Chi-square=105.80, p<0.05) as well as for sheep (Chi-square=34.67, p<0.01) and goats (Chi-square=68.78, p<0.01). Among seropositive samples (n=462 reactors), the MAT was positive for more than one serovar in 73% of sheep (95/131) and 53% of goats (177/331), representing an overall 59% cross-reactive prevalence in small ruminants. The determined frequency distribution (varied among small ruminants) of the employed serovars representing major reactive serogroup was Icterohaemorrhagiae (29.87), Javanica (20.78), Australis (20.35), Hurstbridge (16.23), Pyrogenes (15.8), Djasmin (15.58), Bataviae (15.37), Autumnalis (14.5), Canicola (14.5), Hebdomadis (14.07), Shermani (13.64), Panama (13.42), Sejroe (12.77), etc.

Conclusion: This study indicates alarmingly high seroprevalence of leptospirosis in small ruminants with existing endemicity in the studied region in South Peninsular India. Further, these prevalent serovars in the administrative division may be of use in the reference panels of antigens in the MAT in both humans and animal disease diagnostic laboratories for effective and timely diagnosis of leptospirosis and to combat the challenges in public health.

Keywords: leptospirosis; sheep and goats, seroprevalence, frequency distribution, serovars, microscopic agglutination test, South Peninsular India.

Suppressive effect of goat bile in Plasmodium berghei ANKA infection in mice

Research (Published online: 06-08-2021)

5. Suppressive effect of goat bile in Plasmodium berghei ANKA infection in mice

Heny Arwati, Ramadhani R. Bahalwan, Windya T. Hapsari, Kartika A. Wardhani, Kholida N. Aini, Putu I. B. Apsari and Puspa Wardhani

Veterinary World, 14(8): 2016-2022

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Some individuals in Indonesia consume intact goat gallbladder to prevent and treat malaria. The acute and subacute toxicity tests of goat bile (GB) have shown mild diarrhea in mice. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the suppressive effect of GB on parasitemia, splenomegaly, hepatomegaly, and blood biochemistry to assess liver and kidney function in BALB/c mice infected with Plasmodium berghei ANKA.

Materials and Methods: Fifty healthy mice were infected with P. berghei ANKA and divided into five groups. Mice in three groups were administered 0.5 mL of 25%, 50%, or 100% of GB by gavage. Animals in Group 4 were administered 187.2 mg/kg BW of dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine phosphate as a positive control (POS Group). Mice in fifth group were administered sterile water as negative (NEG) controls. Further, 30 uninfected mice were divided into groups 6-8 and administered GB as were mice in the first three groups. Group 9 included 10 uninfected and untreated animals as healthy controls. Treatments were administered in a 4-day suppressive test followed by daily observation of Giemsa-stained blood smears. On day 7, mice were sacrificed to measure the length and weight of spleens and livers, plasma levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and creatinine.

Results: GB suppressed parasitemia but did not affect the size and weight of spleens or livers or plasma levels of AST and ALT compared to uninfected GB-treated and healthy control animals. Conversely, plasma levels of BUN and creatinine were suppressed and remained in the normal range in all groups of mice.

Conclusion: GB suppresses parasitemia with no significant impact on hepatic enzymes in GB-treated infected mice. Liver dysfunction in GB-treated infected mice was due to P. berghei rather than GB treatment.

Keywords: blood biochemistry, goat bile, hepatomegaly, malaria, splenomegaly, suppressive effect.