Semen characteristics and second successful artificial insemination of Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) in Thailand

Research (Published online: 22-05-2022)

13. Semen characteristics and second successful artificial insemination of Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) in Thailand

Ampika Thongphakdee, Supalak Kiatsomboon, Sakhon Noimoon, Urarikha Kongprom, Itti Boonorana, Santhita Karoon, Jedsada Thawnern, Apichaya Sakulthai, Petthisak Sombutputorn, Manakorn Sukmak, Chainarong Punkong and Nikorn Thongtip

Veterinary World, 15(5): 1246-1255

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: As the number of wild Asian elephants (Elephas maximus) continues to decline, maintaining healthy populations under human care is vital. Male fertility assessment is essential for understanding the reproductive status, which can help to uncover underlying problems and improve the rate of pregnancy success. The objectives of this study in Asian elephants were as follows: (1) To investigate the semen characteristics; (2) to compare the relative seminal vesicle size and semen characteristics; (3) to compare the semen characteristics between good-motile (>60% progressive motility) and poor-motile (<60% progressive motility) ejaculates; and (4) to investigate the pregnancy success rate after artificial insemination (AI) with combined chilled and frozen semen.

Materials and Methods: In total, 153 ejaculates were collected by manual rectal stimulation from 25 bulls. The volume, pH, sperm concentration, progressive motility, viability, morphology, and membrane integrity were investigated in each ejaculate. Assessment of accessory sex glands was conducted using transrectal ultrasonography to compare the relative seminal vesicle size and semen characteristics, and the bulls were divided into two groups according to the size of the ampulla (<7 or ≥7 cm2). For the comparison of good and poor-motile ejaculates and semen characteristics, the samples were divided into two groups: Good-motile (>60% progressive motility) and poor-motile (<60% progressive motility) ejaculates. Semen ejaculates for AI were collected from three bulls. The estrous cycles of four females were monitored using an enzyme immunoassay. Seven AI attempts were conducted using frozen and/or chilled semen by endoscopic visualization. AI was repeated 1 day before the luteinizing hormone surge, on the day of the surge, and 1 day after the surge. Pregnancy was confirmed by monitoring the serum progesterone profile and the abdomen and mammary glands changes.

Results: From 153 ejaculates, the mean±standard error values of progressive motility, semen volume, sperm concentration, pH, and viability were 40.18%±2.28%, 40.94±3.86 mL, 1,205.58±62.26×106 sperm/mL, 7.50±0.10, and 56.17%±1.96%, respectively. Comparing ampulla size and semen characteristics revealed that the bulls with ampullae of ≥7 cm2 yielded significantly larger volume ejaculates. However, there were no significant differences in sperm motility and concentration. The comparison of semen characteristics between good- and poor-motile ejaculates revealed that the former had significantly higher pH, viability, normal acrosomes, intact membranes, and normal head and tail morphology but often had a significantly lower volume and sperm concentration. From seven AI attempts in four females, one female had a confirmed pregnancy (14.3% pregnancy rate), and delivered a healthy live female baby weighing 128 kg at 21 months and 12 days of gestation. The baby is now 3 years old and in a healthy condition, with normally developing growth and behavior.

Conclusion: The semen characteristics of Asian elephants can be used as the baseline reference for further applications. The ampullae size indicates semen quantity but not quality. Our success in producing an elephant calf from AI using frozen and chilled semen demonstrated that AI can be used as an alternative approach for the breeding management of Asian elephants. However, the semen of Asian elephants is of poor quality, especially in terms of membrane integrity; thus, the improvement in semen quality through intensive and careful management of elephant health and fertility remains a challenge for the future. Furthermore, a sperm bank should be established to develop sperm cryopreservation, which will be invaluable for improving the genetic diversity of the Asian elephant.

Keywords: artificial insemination, Asian elephant, hormone, semen quality, sex accessory glands.

Designing a rabies control mobile application for a community-based rabies surveillance system during the COVID-19 pandemic in Bali, Indonesia

Research (Published online: 21-05-2022)

12. Designing a rabies control mobile application for a community-based rabies surveillance system during the COVID-19 pandemic in Bali, Indonesia

I Made Subrata, Ngakan Putu Anom Harjana, Kadek Karang Agustina, Sang Gede Purnama and Made Pasek Kardiwinata

Veterinary World, 15(5): 1237-1245

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Rabies remains a public health concern in Indonesia, and the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has stymied rabies prevention and control efforts. There is a need to transform the rabies program to be adaptable to pandemic situations to improve program coverage on dog vaccination and rabies surveillance. This study aimed to create a rabies control (RaCon) mobile application for a community-based rabies surveillance system during COVID-19 in Bali, Indonesia.

Materials and Methods: We employ the Design Science Research methodology. Surveillance officers, veterinarians, community leaders, outreach workers, and dog owners participated in a series of offline in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. The RaCon prototype was evaluated using the Post-Study System Usability Questionnaire (PSSUQ) framework, which included the system's usefulness, information quality, and interface quality. In this study, we used both a qualitative (n=50) and quantitative (n=342) approach.

Results: According to the findings of this study, integrating public health and animal health into the rabies surveillance system are critical to supporting the One Health approach and encouraging community engagement in rabies programs. The RaCon prototype is expected to include features such as pet ownership, case report, news and announcements, nearest vet, health information, outbreak radar, emergency call, and app feedback. The RaCon prototype passed both qualitative and quantitative evaluations, indicating that it could be used to support the rabies surveillance system, particularly in the COVID-19 situation.

Conclusion: The RaCon prototype was accepted by the users and got positive feedback in terms of the system's usefulness, information quality, and interface quality dimension. As a result, this prototype has the potential to be integrated into the rabies surveillance system in Bali, particularly to strengthen the community-based rabies surveillance system. Even though this prototype received positive feedback, this study focuses solely on the design development and evaluation of its user interface. As a result, further development is required before incorporating RaCon into the rabies prevention and control program.

Keywords: community-based intervention, One Health, post-study system usability questionnaire, rabies, surveillance system.

Vermikom feed additive effects on dairy cows' blood and milk parameters

Research (Published online: 21-05-2022)

11. Vermikom feed additive effects on dairy cows' blood and milk parameters

S. K. Sherimova, N. B. Sarsembayeva, T. B. Abdigaliyeva and B. Lozowicka

Veterinary World, 15(5): 1228-1236

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Dairy cattle breeding plays a significant role in providing the population with high-quality, reasonably priced goods. The development of this industry and its effectiveness depends on the proper use of available feed products. Feed additives (FAs), as a rule, should compensate for missing elements in the diet. This study aimed to determine the effect of the FA Vermikom on blood parameters, as well as milk physicochemical and mineral composition and yield in lactating dairy cows.

Materials and Methods: A total of 30 Holstein cows, with an average weight of 650±5 kg, were randomly divided into three groups of 10. Over a period of 5 months, each group was fed one of three diets: Mixed main diet without supplements (control), main diet supplemented with 2% Vermikom, and main diet supplemented with 4% Vermikom.

Results: Hematological parameters, productivity, and physicochemical and mineral composition of milk from animals provided the FA Vermikom were higher than those of the control group. In the Vermikom groups, the hemoglobin content was higher by 5.75%, calcium by an average of 10.8%, and total protein by 2.5%. The average daily milk yield was also higher by 8.4% than the control group. Regarding the mineral composition of the milk, the content of calcium, phosphorus, and iron exceeded that of the control on average by 2.9%, 3.4%, and 14.8%, respectively.

Conclusion: We propose introducing 4% Vermikom into the diet of dairy cows based on the study results. Future research will expand our knowledge regarding cows' needs for all recommended nutrients, thereby improving animal productivity and milk quality. The results obtained contribute to further expanding the food base of animal husbandry in the Republic of Kazakhstan.

Keywords: diet, feed additive, hematology, milk productivity, milk quality, vermiculite.

The first study on the seroprevalence of Anaplasma spp. in small ruminants and assessment of associated risk factors in North Egypt

Research (Published online: 20-05-2022)

10. The first study on the seroprevalence of Anaplasma spp. in small ruminants and assessment of associated risk factors in North Egypt

Abdelfattah Selim, Kotb A. Attia, Roua A. Alsubki, Fatima Albohairy, Itoh Kimiko and Mourad Ben Said

Veterinary World, 15(5): 1221-1227

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Ovine anaplasmosis is a rickettsial disease caused by Anaplasma spp. These Gram-negative intracellular bacteria are mainly transmitted by ticks and infected blood cells of caprine, ovine, and wild small ruminants. At present, epidemiological data on anaplasmosis in cattle, dogs, and camels in Egypt are available, but the data about Anaplasma spp. in sheep and goat are scarce. This study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of Anaplasma spp. in small ruminants and assess the associated risk factors.

Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was performed to investigate the seroprevalence of Anaplasma spp. in 300 sheep and 300 goats from four governorates in North Egypt using a commercial competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays kit, and the associated risk factors for the infection were evaluated.

Results: Overall, the seroprevalence of anti-Anaplasma antibodies was 18.3% and 21.3% in sheep and goats, respectively. A multivariable logistic regression model was used to determine the association between risk factors and Anaplasma spp. infection.

Conclusion: Age, animal husbandry, acaricide use, tick infestation, and contact with cattle were the primary risk factors for Anaplasma seropositivity. This study confirms the presence of antibodies against Anaplasma spp. in small ruminants from Egypt. This is the first study to assess the associated risk factors for Anaplasma infection in small ruminants from Egypt. Further studies are needed to improve the understanding of the associated disease factors, facilitating the development of new procedures for control of anaplasmosis in livestock.

Keywords: Anaplasma spp., competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, Egypt, risk factors, small ruminants.

Antibiotic resistance and associated resistance determinants in different Salmonella enterica serovars isolated from pigs in Argentina

Research (Published online: 20-05-2022)

9. Antibiotic resistance and associated resistance determinants in different Salmonella enterica serovars isolated from pigs in Argentina

Julián Parada, Marcelo Galas, Diego Faccone, Pablo Tamiozzo and Alicia Carranza

Veterinary World, 15(5): 1215-1220

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Salmonellosis is one of the most common foodborne diseases in the world, and the increasing antibiotic resistance in Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica recovered from food animals constitutes an important risk from a One Health approach. This study aimed to characterize antibiotic resistance and some of its associated resistance determinants in different S. enterica serovars isolated from pigs in Argentina.

Materials and Methods: A retrospective study was conducted on Salmonella strains isolated between 2011 and 2015 from pigs in the Pampean region of Argentina. The antimicrobial susceptibility patterns to 21 antimicrobials and some antibiotic resistance determinants were characterized in 55 Salmonella isolates, representing 58 farms.

Results: We identified 56% (n=30) of the strains as multidrug-resistant, where resistance to tetracycline (62%, n=34), ampicillin (53%, n=29), nalidixic acid (53%, n=29), chloramphenicol (33%, n=18), and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (31%, n=17) was most common. The wide range of resistance to ampicillin correlates with the presence of TEM type β-lactamases in the strains. However, high susceptibility was found in the new generation of β-lactams. Fluoroquinolone resistance is a major concern. Most strains with decreased susceptibility to ciprofloxacin showed gyrA mutations and plasmid-mediated quinolone resistance gene qnrB.

Conclusion: Here, we identified broad resistance to some antibiotics frequently used in human therapeutics and several easily transferable resistance mechanisms that could endanger public health.

Keywords: environment, health, livestock, salmonellosis.

Prevalence of major nematodes and human factors that affect infection in the zebra dove in a closed cage system

Research (Published online: 19-05-2022)

8. Prevalence of major nematodes and human factors that affect infection in the zebra dove in a closed cage system

Watcharapol Suyapoh, Domechai Kaewnoi, Pornphutthachat Sota, Wichaya Thongtako and Sutas Suttiprapa

Veterinary World, 15(5): 1208-1214

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Roundworms cause infections in the avian population that lead to illness and poor production. The singing zebra dove is an economically important animal in the Indo-Malay region. The prevalence of these parasitic groups in zebra doves is unknown. This study estimated the prevalence and associated human risk factors of gastrointestinal nematode infections in zebra dove farming.

Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted from January to April 2021. The study was conducted on 184 doves in three zebra dove farms. Fecal samples were collected from pooled zebra dove droppings. Major proportions and infection intensity of gastrointestinal nematodes were morphologically identified and morphometrically investigated. Associated human factors were assessed through the interview surveys among farmers.

Results: Results showed that 36.96% of the zebra doves were infected. The primary nematodes were Ascaridia galli (34.78%), Heterakis gallinarum (6.52%), Trichostrongylus tenuis (2.17%), Syngamus spp. (4.35%), and Amidostomum spp. (2.17%). The primary human factors that contribute to parasitic infection were poor hygiene, food contamination with parasites, and inappropriate deworming.

Conclusion: There was a high prevalence of gastrointestinal nematodes in the zebra dove in the close cage system. Human factors played key roles as risk factors, and improves farming management will help reduce parasitic infections. However, these nematodes may contribute to poor health status and poor productivity of zebra doves. Further extensive studies on clinical signs and pathological changes should be conducted.

Keywords: Ascaridia galli, gastrointestinal nematodes, Geopelia striata, human factors, Syngamus spp., zebra dove.

Potential use of Indonesian basil (Ocimum basilicum) maceration to increase estradiol and progesterone synthesis and secretion to improve prenatal growth of offspring using female albino rats as an animal model

Research (Published online: 18-05-2022)

7. Potential use of Indonesian basil (Ocimum basilicum) maceration to increase estradiol and progesterone synthesis and secretion to improve prenatal growth of offspring using female albino rats as an animal model

Andriyanto Andriyanto, Leliana Nugrahaning Widi, Mawar Subangkit, Elpita Tarigan, Yusa Irarang, Rindy Fazni Nengsih and Wasmen Manalu

Veterinary World, 15(5): 1197-1207

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Basil is well known as a medicinal plant that contains high essential oils and antioxidant compounds that have the potential to improve ovarian development. Thus, basil may have the potential to improve the growth and development of the uterus and placenta for optimal prenatal growth of offspring. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of Indonesian basil maceration on gonad development of mature female albino rats.

Materials and Methods: Fifteen 8-week-old female Sprague-Dawley rats, at the diestrus stage of the estrus cycle, were divided into three different treatment groups: Control group (mineral water), bas-low group (1% of basil maceration), and bas-high group (5% of basil maceration). Basil maceration was dissolved and administered in mineral drinking water, and the treatments were given for 20 days (4 estrus cycles). At the end of the treatment period, serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), estradiol, and progesterone (Pg) were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The relative weight of the ovary and uterus; diameter and length of uterine cornual; vascularization of uterus; the diameter of uterine glands; the number of primary, secondary, and tertiary de Graaf follicles; the number of corpora luteum; as well as the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the ovary were determined.

Results: There was no significant difference (p>0.05) in the serum FSH level of rats treated with basil maceration drinking water doses of 1% and 5% compared to the control group. However, serum estradiol and Pg concentrations in the 1% and 5% basil maceration groups were significantly higher (p<0.05) than those of the control group. Furthermore, 1% and 5% basil maceration significantly increased the uterus's relative weight, diameter, and vascularization. Serum estradiol concentrations contributed to the elevated expression of VEGF compared to Pg.

Conclusion: Administration of basil maceration for 20 days before mating could improve follicle growth and development, eventually increasing estradiol synthesis and secretion, thus improving the uterus's preparation for implantation. This makes basil maceration an attractive candidate in clinical research to enhance the growth and development of the uterus and placenta, which will better support the optimum prenatal growth and development of embryos and fetuses, resulting in superior offspring.

Keywords: Indonesian basil, rat, reproductive system.

Extended-spectrum-beta-lactamases and carbapenemase-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae isolated from fresh produce farms in different governorates of Egypt

Research (Published online: 18-05-2022)

6. Extended-spectrum-beta-lactamases and carbapenemase-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae isolated from fresh produce farms in different governorates of Egypt

Esraa A. Elshafiee, Mona Kadry, Sara Mohamed Nader and Zeinab S. Ahmed

Veterinary World, 15(5): 1191-1196

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Fresh produce farms represents a major source of concern since they are becoming increasingly antibiotic resistant. This study aimed to investigate t he occurrence of carbapenemase and extended-spectrum-beta-lactamases (ESBL) - producing genes in Klebsiella pneumoniae isolated from fresh produce farms in Egypt, irrigation water, and people working in these fields.

Materials and Methods: One hundred tomatoes from typical farms were collected in plastic bags. The study also included 20 surface-water samples from different irrigation watersheds in fresh produce farms, as well as 50 feces samples from farmworkers. Suspected K. pneumoniae was grown on Eosin Methylene Blue agar for 24 h before being biochemically identified using the RapID ONE test. PCR was used to detect carbapenemase (blaKPC, blaOXA-48, and blaNDM) and ESBL (blaSHV, blaTEM, and blaCTX) expressing genes on isolates.

Results: K. pneumoniae was identified in 30% of water and 10% of worker samples, while only one isolate was found in tomato samples. One of the six irrigation water isolates tested positive for carbapenem-resistant NDM. In contrast, two isolates tested positive for ESBL determinants, one of which was blaSHV and the other having both blaSHV and blaTEM genes. Two of the five K. pneumoniae isolates from farmworkers were positive for blaNDM, with one isolate also testing positive for blaSHV and blaTEM. The blaOXA-48 gene was also discovered in the carbapenem-resistant K. pneumoniae tomato isolate used in this study.

Conclusion: Carbapenemase- and ESBL-producing K. pneumoniae were found in fresh produce farms, implying that these resistance genes were being passed down to Egyptian consumers.

Keywords: carbapenemase, extended-spectrum-beta-lactamases, fresh produce, humans, irrigation water, Klebsiella pneumonia.

Occurrence and antibiogram of multidrug-resistant Salmonella enterica isolated from dairy products in Libya

Research (Published online: 17-05-2022)

5. Occurrence and antibiogram of multidrug-resistant Salmonella enterica isolated from dairy products in Libya

Aboubaker M. Garbaj, Tahani B. Ben Gawella, Jihan A. Sherif, Hesham T. Naas, Hanan L. Eshamah, Salah M. Azwai, Fatim T. Gammoudi, Said K. Abolghait, Ashraf A. Moawad, Ilaria Barbieri and Ibrahim M. Eldaghayes

Veterinary World, 15(5): 1185-1190

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Foodborne illnesses are a serious challenge to human health and the economic sector. For example, salmonellosis remains a burden in developed and developing nations. Rapid and reliable molecular methods to identify Salmonella strains are essential for minimizing human infection. This study aimed to identify Salmonella spp. in raw milk and dairy products using conventional and molecular techniques and to test the antibiotic susceptibility of the isolated strains.

Materials and Methods: One hundred and thirty-one milk and dairy product samples were randomly collected from different localities in Libya. Samples were examined for the presence of Salmonella by conventional culture techniques, including cultivation in Rappaport-Vassiliadis broth and streaking on xylose lysine deoxycholate agar. Identification also used polymerase chain reaction and partial sequencing of 16S rDNA. Twenty-four antibiotics were used for the examination of antimicrobial resistance of Salmonella spp. isolates with the agar disk diffusion method (Kirby–Bauer technique). Multi-antibiotic resistance index and antibiotic resistance index (ARI)for Salmonella enterica isolates were calculated.

Results: Twenty-one of 131 samples (16%) were positive for Salmonella spp. recovered from 9 (16%), 2 (11%), 4 (22.2%), and 6 (46%) samples of raw cow milk, fermented raw milk, and fresh locally made soft cheeses, Maasora and Ricotta), respectively. Samples of ice cream, milk powder, and infant formula showed no Salmonella spp. contamination. Only 9 of 21 (42.8%) isolates were confirmed as S. enterica by partial sequence 16S rDNA analysis. All isolates were resistant to amoxycillin, bacitracin, penicillin G, lincomycin, vancomycin, clindamycin, and cloxacillin with an ARI of 0.042. In contrast, all tested strains were sensitive to levofloxacin, doxycycline, and ciprofloxacin. In addition, all of the tested isolates (100%) were resistant to more than one antibiotic.

Conclusion: This study demonstrated the applicability of molecular techniques, compared with conventional methods, as preferable for the identification of Salmonella in milk and dairy products and thus reduction of milk-borne transmission to the consumers. From the view of public health, isolation and identification of Salmonella multidrug-resistant strains from raw cow's milk and locally prepared dairy products sold in the Libyan markets indicate the need to improve the handling and processing of milk and dairy products to minimize the prevalence of Salmonella, one of the most important foodborne microorganisms that cause food poisoning.

Keywords: 16S rDNA partial sequence, antibiotic resistance, dairy products, Libya, milk, Salmonella spp.

Anti-cancer activity of an ethanolic extract of red okra pods (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench) in rats induced by N-methyl-N-nitrosourea

Research (Published online: 12-05-2022)

4. Anti-cancer activity of an ethanolic extract of red okra pods (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench) in rats induced by N-methyl-N-nitrosourea

Manikya Pramudya, Firli Rahmah Primula Dewi, Richard W. Wong, Devinta Wahyu Anggraini, Dwi Winarni and Sri Puji Astuti Wahyuningsih

Veterinary World, 15(5): 1177-1184

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Breast cancer is the most frequent malignancy in women. The consumption of phytochemical components from plants may play an essential role in preventing and treating this cancer. This study aimed to investigate the anti-cancer activity of an ethanolic extract of red okra pods (EEROP) in rats (Rattus norvegicus) induced by N-methyl-N-nitrosourea (MNU).

Materials and Methods: The experimental animals were divided into six groups (n=5/group), namely, KN (normal control, without any treatment), K– (negative control, exposed to MNU without EEROP), K+ (positive control, exposed to MNU and Methotrexate), and the treatment Groups P1, P2, and P3 (exposed to MNU and EEROP at doses of 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg body weight [BW], respectively). Intraperitoneal delivery of MNU and EEROP oral administration was carried out for 8 weeks. After the end of treatment, the parameters of cytokines, CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, and mammary gland histology were measured.

Results: The results showed that EEROP at doses of 100 and 200 mg/kg BW significantly downregulated interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, IL-17, IL-10, and tumor growth factor-β (p<0.05). In addition, doses of 200 mg/kg BW significantly increased the activity of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, prevented the proliferation of mammary gland epithelial cells, and yielded a significantly thinner epithelium of the mammary gland (p<0.05).

Conclusion: It can be concluded that EEROP was an effective anti-cancer agent by modulating the immune response. Further studies using a nanoparticle system are warranted to achieve optimal working conditions for these bioactive compounds.

Keywords: cancer, cytokines, histology of mammary gland, N-methyl-N-nitrosourea, red okra pods.

Single-stranded DNA aptamer-based rolling circle amplification as anti-hicken Salmonella bacteriostatic

Research (Published online: 11-05-2022)

3. Single-stranded DNA aptamer-based rolling circle amplification as anti-hicken Salmonella bacteriostatic

Samer Sadeq Hameed, Adil Sabr Al-Ogaili and Noor Noori

Veterinary World, 15(5): 1171-1176

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Salmonella is a major foodborne pathogen in the poultry industry, wherein the control measures may include sanitation and antibacterial and vaccines. However, there have been severe global restrictions on using anti-Salmonella antibacterial agents in livestock. This situation, along with rapidly increasing drug-resistant bacterial species, has led to the exploration of unconventional methods to control Salmonella infection in poultry. In recent years, selection techniques of promising DNA aptamers have begun to permeate several medical branches, resulting in the development of numerous anti-Salmonella DNA aptamers, most of which are used as sensing molecules for diagnostic purposes. These DNA aptamers have been demonstrated to interfere with bacterial growth, multiplication, and viability. Aptamers formed in rolling circle amplification products (RCA-p) could improve the potential action of aptamer interference with bacteria. This study aimed to test the use of single-stranded DNA aptamers in the form of RCA-p as a bacteriostatic to Salmonella in vitro.

Materials and Methods: Salmonella Typhimurium and Salmonella Enteritidis isolates were subjected to the action of anti-ST and anti-SE DNA aptamers in the form of RCA-p. Each isolate was grown on MacConkey and Luria-Bertani agar media separately in different concentrations in the presence or absence of the cognate RCA-p.

Results: The anti-Salmonella species DNA aptamer-based RCA-p were capable of reducing bacterial growth to significant levels in vitro.

Conclusion: We describe a potential solution for the rapidly developing drug resistance of several bacterial species. Our findings suggested that the use of non-toxic, non-immunogenic, and low-cost DNA aptamers targeting Salmonella in the form of RCA-p could inhibit the bacterial growth rate. Unlike polymerase chain reaction, RCA yields tandem repeats of single-stranded DNA at isothermal conditions, which would increase the probability of receptor-ligand clustering and increase affinity. Furthermore, as our RCA template was bivalent with two DNA aptamer sequences, we could target multiple sites or antigens on a bacterial cell.

Keywords: DNA aptamers, rolling circle amplification, Salmonella.

A novel cross-species differential tumor classification method based on exosome-derived microRNA biomarkers established by human-dog lymphoid and mammary tumor cell lines' transcription profiles

Research (Published online: 11-05-2022)

2. A novel cross-species differential tumor classification method based on exosome-derived microRNA biomarkers established by human-dog lymphoid and mammary tumor cell lines' transcription profiles

Kaj Chokeshaiusaha, Thanida Sananmuang, Denis Puthier and Catherine Nguyen

Veterinary World, 15(5): 1163-1170

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Exosome-derived microRNA (miRNA) has been widely studied as a non-invasive candidate biomarker for tumor diagnosis in humans and dogs. Its application, however, was primarily focused on intraspecies usage for individual tumor type diagnosis. This study aimed to gain insight into its application as a cross-species differential tumor diagnostic tool; we demonstrated the process of identifying and using exosome-derived miRNA as biomarkers for the classification of lymphoid and mammary tumor cell lines in humans and dogs.

Materials and Methods: Exosome-derived miRNA sequencing data from B-cell lymphoid tumor cell lines (n=13), mammary tumor cell lines (n=8), and normal mammary epithelium cultures (n=4) were pre-processed in humans and dogs. F-test and rank product (RP) analyses were used to select candidate miRNA orthologs for tumor cell line classification. The classification was carried out using an optimized support vector machine (SVM) with various kernel classifiers, including linear SVM, polynomial SVM, and radial basis function SVM. The receiver operating characteristic and precision-recall curves were used to assess the performance of all models.

Results: MIR10B, MIR21, and MIR30E were chosen as the candidate orthologs from a total of 236 human-dog miRNA orthologs (p≤0.01, F-test score ≥10, and RP score ≤10). Their use of polynomial SVM provided the best performance in classifying samples from various tumor cell lines and normal epithelial culture.

Conclusion: The study successfully demonstrated a method for identifying and utilizing candidate human-dog exosome-derived miRNA orthologs for differential tumor cell line classification. Such findings shed light on a novel non-invasive tumor diagnostic tool that could be used in both human and veterinary medicine in the future.

Keywords: exosome-derived microRNA, meta-analysis, ortholog, support vector machine, tumor.

The first report on the prevalence of soil-transmitted helminth infections and associated risk factors among traditional pig farmers in Bali Province, Indonesia

Research (Published online: 10-05-2022)

1. The first report on the prevalence of soil-transmitted helminth infections and associated risk factors among traditional pig farmers in Bali Province, Indonesia

Kadek Karang Agustina, I. Made Ady Wirawan, I. Made Sudarmaja, Made Subrata and Nyoman Sadra Dharmawan

Veterinary World, 15(5): 1154-1162

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Pigs are the main livestock commodity in Bali Province, Indonesia, where traditional farming practices are widely used. Traditional pig farmers are often closely associated with poverty and a perceived lack of knowledge regarding health and hygiene. Data on soil-transmitted helminthiasis (STH) and risk factors associated with STH worm infection among traditional pig farmers in Bali were previously unavailable. This study aimed to analyze the prevalence and risk factors for STH infections among traditional pig farmers in Bali Province, Indonesia.

Materials and Methods: This study involved the fecal examination of 238 traditional pig farmers from all areas of Bali Province in Indonesia. In addition, several pig feces samples were combined into one pooled sample belonging to each farm. All fresh fecal samples were stored in a 5% formaldehyde solution before being analyzed using concentration flotation techniques. Subsequently, risk factors were determined through an interview and a questionnaire. The odds ratio (OR) and Chi-square tests were used to determine the risk factors associated with STH infections.

Results: The result showed that there was a high prevalence of STH infections among traditional pig farmers and pig farms in Bali, with rates of 21.8% and 76.5%, respectively. This could be due to risk factors, such as personal hygiene (OR: 5.756; confidence interval [CI]: 2.96-11.193; p=0.00), sanitation (OR: 1.914; CI: 1.024-3.576; p=0.042), education level (OR: 7.579; CI: 2.621-21.915; p=0.00), household income (OR: 2.447; CI: 1.122-5.338; p=0.025), and occupation (OR: 2.95; CI: 1.356-6.415; p=0.006).

Conclusion: The infections seen in farmers were distributed among hookworm, Ascaris spp., and Trichuris spp., at 15.1%, 9.2%, and 4.2%, respectively. The risk factors associated with infections of STH and Ascaris spp. were personal hygiene, home sanitation, education level, household income, and having a primary occupation as a traditional pig farmer. In contrast, personal hygiene, education level, and primary occupation were the only risk factors for hookworm infection, while personal hygiene and home sanitation were the risk factors associated with Trichuris spp. infection. The limitation of this study was that the number of samples was relatively small due to the difficulty of obtaining stool samples from traditional pig farmers, with many individuals refusing to provide their stool for inspection. We suggest that future research focus on identifying the species of worms that infect traditional pig farmers and to better identify the zoonotic link of STH transmission from pigs to humans.

Keywords: Ascaris, hookworm, risk factor, soil-transmitted helminthiasis, traditional pig farmer, Trichuris.

Dengue virus transovarial transmission detection in Aedes aegypti from dengue hemorrhagic fever patients' residences in Denpasar, Bali

Research (Published online: 30-04-2022)

43. Dengue virus transovarial transmission detection in Aedes aegypti from dengue hemorrhagic fever patients' residences in Denpasar, Bali

I. Made Sudarmaja, I. Kadek Swastika, Luh Putu Eka Diarthini, I. Putu Dema Prasetya and I. Md. Ady Wirawan

Veterinary World, 15(4): 1149-1153

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: To effectively control dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF), it is necessary to assess the risk of vertical virus transmission in Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. This study aimed to detect dengue virus (DENV) transovarial transmission in A. aegypti collected from DHF patients' residences in Denpasar, Bali.

Materials and Methods: A. aegypti samples were acquired by rearing A. aegypti eggs collected from ovitraps placed in the homes of DHF patients. Ovitraps were installed for 7 days and viewed using a loupe to determine whether there were Aedes spp. eggs present. An immunocytochemical method was utilized with 200 samples, and virus detection was performed using a reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).

Results: Of the 10 DHF patient houses fitted with ovitraps, four produced positive ovitraps from which larvae developed (house index=40%). Of the 50 ovitraps mounted in the 10 homes, 14 ovitraps were positive and contained A. aegypti eggs (ovitrap index=28%). Of these 14 positive ovitraps containing A. aegypti eggs, 10 ovitraps produced larvae. Immunocytochemical tests were conducted on A. aegypti eggs from the four houses under study. It was found that from the 200 samples collected, 197 samples could be observed, and 11 samples (5.6%) were positive for DENV antigen. RT-PCR examination conducted on mosquitoes reared from the four houses studied obtained a negative virus content result.

Conclusion: This study found the presence of DENV antigen to be as high as 5.6%. This means that potential for transovarial transmission exists within DHF patients' homes in Denpasar, Bali. Aedes control strategy in Denpasar should address this finding, in addition to the current approaches which have focused primarily on the elimination of larval breeding habitats and control of adults using insecticidal fogging during outbreaks.

Keywords: Aedes aegypti, dengue virus, immunocytochemical, transovarial transmission.

Antimicrobial resistance pattern of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus isolated from sheep and humans in Veterinary Hospital Maiduguri, Nigeria

Research (Published online: 30-04-2022)

42. Antimicrobial resistance pattern of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus isolated from sheep and humans in Veterinary Hospital Maiduguri, Nigeria

Solomon Jauro, Mark M. Hamman, Kefas D. Malgwi, Jasini A. Musa, Yusuf B. Ngoshe, Isa A. Gulani, Iliya D. Kwoji, Ibrahim Iliya, Mustapha B. Abubakar and Folorunso O. Fasina

Veterinary World, 15(4): 1141-1148

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), an important opportunistic pathogen, is a Gram-positive coccus known to be resistant to β-lactam antibiotics. Its virulence depends on a large range of factors, mainly extracellular proteins, such as enzymes and exotoxins, that contribute to causing a wide range of diseases in human and animal species. The major reasons for the success of this pathogen are its great variability, which enables it to occur and thrive at different periods and places with diverse clonal types and antibiotic resistance patterns within regions and countries. Infections caused by antibiotic-resistant S. aureus bring about serious problems in the general population (humans and animals). Infections with these pathogens can be devastating, particularly for the very young, adults and immunocompromised patients in both humans and animals. This study aimed to determine the presence of MRSA in both apparently healthy and sick sheep brought to the veterinary hospital as well as veterinary staff and students on clinical attachment in the hospital.

Materials and Methods: A total of 200 nasal swab samples were collected aseptically from sheep and humans (100 each) for the isolation of MRSA. The samples were processed by appropriately transporting them to the laboratory, then propagated in nutrient broth at 37°C for 24 h followed by subculturing on mannitol salt agar at 37°C for 24 h, to identify S. aureus. This was followed by biochemical tests (catalase and coagulase tests) and Gram staining. MRSA was isolated using Clinical Laboratory Standard Institute (CLSI) guideline and confirmed by plating onto Oxacillin (OX) Resistance Screening Agar Base agar. The antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of the MRSA isolates was determined using the disk diffusion method against 12 commonly used antimicrobial agents.

Results: The total rate of nasal carriage of S. aureus and MRSA was found to be 51% and 43% in sheep and humans, respectively. The MRSA prevalence in male and female sheep was 18% and 8%, while 9% and 8% were for male and female human samples, respectively. The antimicrobial susceptibility test showed 100% resistance to OX, cefoxitin, oxytetracycline, cephazolin, and penicillin-G (Pen) by MRSA isolates from humans. Conversely, there was 100% susceptibility to ciprofloxacin, imipenem, and gentamicin; for linezolid (LZD), it was 87.5%, norfloxacin (NOR) (71%), and erythromycin (ERY) (50%) susceptibility was recorded. The MRSA isolates from sheep recorded 100% resistance to the same set of drugs used for human MRSA isolates and were equally 100% susceptible to gentamicin, imipenem, LZD, ciprofloxacin, NOR (92%), and ERY (50%).

Conclusion: This study determined the presence of MRSA in sheep and humans from the Veterinary Hospital, Maiduguri. It appears that certain drugs such as ciprofloxacin, imipenem, and gentamicin will continue to remain effective against MRSA associated with humans and sheep. Reasons for the observed patterns of resistance must be explored to reduce the burdens of MRSA resistance. Furthermore, the present study did not confirm the MRSA resistance genes such as mecA and spa typing to ascertain the polymorphism in the X-region using appropriate molecular techniques. Hence more studies need to be conducted to elucidate these findings using robust techniques.

Keywords: antimicrobial resistance, humans, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, sheep.

An intestinal Candida albicans model for monomicrobial and polymicrobial biofilms and effects of hydrolases and the Bgl2 ligand

Research (Published online: 29-04-2022)

41. An intestinal Candida albicans model for monomicrobial and polymicrobial biofilms and effects of hydrolases and the Bgl2 ligand

Masfufatun Masfufatun, Rini Purbowati, Nira A. Arum, Mey S. Yasinta, Sri Sumarsih and Afaf Baktir

Veterinary World, 15(4): 1134-1140

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Candida albicans is the most prevalent human fungal pathogen. In biofilms, C. albicans becomes more resistant to antifungal agents because of the production of an extracellular matrix (ECM) that protects the yeast cells. This study aimed to determine the effects of hydrolase enzymes and the Bgl2 ligand on monomicrobial and polymicrobial biofilms.

Materials and Methods: Biofilm induction in rats was carried out using streptomycin (25 mg/kg) and gentamicin (7.5 mg/kg) administered orally once per day for 5 days. Rats were injected subcutaneously with cortisone acetate (225 mg/kg) as an immunosuppressant on day 5. In addition, rats were orally administered C. albicans for the single microbial model and a combination of C. albicans with Escherichia coli for the polymicrobial model. Following the biofilm production, the groups were treated with glucosamine (8.57 mg/kg body weight) and Achatina fulica hydrolases (1.5 mL) orally for 2 weeks. The reduction of the biofilm was measured using confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). Data were analyzed using a t-test, with a significance value of 95%.

Results: CLSM images revealed a strong association between C. albicans and E. coli in the polymicrobial biofilm. On the contrary, the combination treatment using glucosamine and A. fulica hydrolases reduced the ECM of the single microbial biofilm (53.58%). However, treatment effectiveness against the matrix (19.17%) was reduced in the polymicrobial model.

Conclusion: There is a strong association between C. albicans and E. coli in the formation of polymicrobial biofilms. The combination of glucosamine and the A. fulica enzyme can reduce the single microbial biofilm ECM; however, it is ineffective in the polymicrobial model.

Keywords: Achatina fulica hydrolases, Bgl2 ligand, Candida albicans, Escherichia coli, intestinal polymicrobial biofilm.

First study on the molecular prevalence of caprine arthritis encephalitis virus in goats in Babylon, Iraq

Research (Published online: 28-04-2022)

40. First study on the molecular prevalence of caprine arthritis encephalitis virus in goats in Babylon, Iraq

Ahmed Hamzah Mosa, Karrar Jasim Hamzah and Hamed A. H. Aljabory

Veterinary World, 15(4): 1129-1133

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Caprine arthritis encephalitis virus (CAEV) is a virus that affects goats all over the world and causes enormous economic losses; as a result, screening for the disease is a priority, especially in Iraq. The present study aimed to estimate the prevalence of CAEV in infected goats using the précised PCR method in Babylon, Iraq.

Materials and Methods: A total of 85 blood samples from goats aged 1 month to ≥6 years were analyzed for CAEV infections using molecular methods. The polymerase chain reaction primer was designed to amplify a 573 bp region of the proviral pol gene.

Results: The CAEV tests revealed that five out of 85 goats were positive for CAEV. There were no significant differences in CAEV infection according to goat sex and significant differences according to age.

Conclusion: Based on these results, the present study is the first molecular survey to confirm the current CAEV genome in an Iraqi goat flock.

Keywords: caprine arthritis encephalitis virus, goats, Iraq, molecular detection, polymerase chain reaction.