COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in Sana'a, Yemen

Research (Published online: 23-06-2022)

7. COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in Sana'a, Yemen

Redhwan Ahmed Al-Naggar, Hisham Alshaikhli, Reyadh R. Al-Rashidi and Sharon Murtagh

International Journal of One Health, 8(1): 58-69

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: The development of a coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine is ongoing. This study aimed to prepare for public acceptance of the vaccine. There is a need to identify the current acceptance and potential barriers to receiving a COVID-19 vaccine in Yemen. Understanding the hesitancy and acceptance of a COVID-19 vaccine are crucial to develop local evidence-based interventions.

Materials and Methods: Twenty students were interviewed in this study. An interview guide was developed and it addressed the willingness to accept a future COVID-19 vaccine. In-depth interviews were conducted, transcribed, and manually analyzed.

Results: The majority of participants agreed that they would take a COVID-19 vaccine for several reasons, including protection for themselves, their families, and others and to stop the spread of COVID-19, for which the vaccine is important, as in other routine vaccinations. However, some participants shared that they would not take the COVID-19 vaccine due to the following reasons: Concerns regarding the safety of the vaccine; feeling fit and healthy, and thus considering themselves to have strong immunity; feeling that the vaccine was manufactured in a rushed manner and thus it would require approval by the World Health Organization; being previously infected with COVID-19 and considering themselves protected, and placing their trust in God and believing no vaccine was needed.

Conclusion: The willingness to receive a future COVID-19 vaccine was high among medical students. However, some students hesitated to take the vaccine. Therefore, mass media interventions are required to maximize vaccine uptake.

Keywords: coronavirus disease 2019, coronavirus, pandemic, vaccine acceptance, vaccine barriers, vaccine hesitancy, vaccine uptake.

The One Health concept for the threat of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 to marine ecosystems

Review (Published online: 23-06-2022)

6. The One Health concept for the threat of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 to marine ecosystems

Khawla K. Bukha, Ehab A. Sharif and Ibrahim M. Eldaghayes

International Journal of One Health, 8(1): 48-57

ABSTRACT

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a global health threat. This virus is the causative agent for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Pandemic prevention is best addressed through an integrated One Health (OH) approach. Understanding zoonotic pathogen fatality and spillover from wildlife to humans are effective for controlling and preventing zoonotic outbreaks. The OH concept depends on the interface of humans, animals, and their environment. Collaboration among veterinary medicine, public health workers and clinicians, and veterinary public health is necessary for rapid response to emerging zoonotic pathogens. SARS-CoV-2 affects aquatic environments, primarily through untreated sewage. Patients with COVID-19 discharge the virus in urine and feces into residential wastewater. Thus, marine organisms may be infected with SARS-CoV-2 by the subsequent discharge of partially treated or untreated wastewater to marine waters. Viral loads can be monitored in sewage and surface waters. Furthermore, shellfish are vulnerable to SARS-CoV-2 infection. Filter-feeding organisms might be monitored to protect consumers. Finally, the stability of SARS-CoV-2 to various environmental factors aids in viral studies. This article highlights the presence and survival of SARS-CoV-2 in the marine environment and its potential to enter marine ecosystems through wastewater. Furthermore, the OH approach is discussed for improving readiness for successive outbreaks. This review analyzes information from public health and epidemiological monitoring tools to control COVID-19 transmission.

Keywords: coronavirus disease 2019, marine environment, One Health, sewage, shellfish, zoonosis.

Effects of common litter types and their physicochemical properties on the welfare of broilers

Research (Published online: 20-06-2022)

15. Effects of common litter types and their physicochemical properties on the welfare of broilers

Tarek Boussaada, Kaouthar Lakhdari, Salha Amira Benatallah and Samira Meradi

Veterinary World, 15(6): 1523-1529

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: In broiler production, the poor quality litter not only may lead to a deterioration of the welfare status but also negatively affect carcass quality, overall health and growth performance, which may result in economic losses. The effects of litter types on the welfare of broilers are known but the effects of their characteristics have been little studied. This study aimed to evaluate correlations between welfare parameters of broilers and physicochemical characteristics of five common litter types.

Materials and Methods: Over 42 days, 600 (Cobb 700) male broiler chicks were placed within 30 pens (each 2 m2) at a density of 10 birds/m2. The experiment included five treatments with six replicates per treatment. The following litter (or bedding) materials were examined: Standard quality straw, low-quality straw, wood shavings (WS), sawdust, and crop residues. Footpad condition, hock burns, and plumage cleanliness, as well as litter condition, were scored according to previously developed point scale systems. Litter quality was evaluated according to pH level, moisture, water-holding capacity, and ammonia content.

Results: No significant differences were found among litter types in terms of pH, moisture content, or ammonia levels. WS had a significant positive effect on footpad health and plumage cleanliness. However, hock burn was not affected by different bedding types. The severity of pododermatitis was negatively correlated with litter type (r = –0.78; p < 0.001) and positively correlated with the litter scores (r = 0.67; p < 0.001). However, contact dermatitis observed (pododermatitis and hock burn) was not correlated with any of the physicochemical parameters we studied. Meanwhile, we observed a correlation between footpad lesions and hock burn (r = 0.45; p < 0.05), and between footpad lesions and plumage cleanliness (r = 0.59; p < 0.01).

Conclusion: For all litter types examined, contact dermatitis was not correlated with any of the physicochemical components we studied. There were, however, significant correlations between litter type and footpad lesions, as well as between footpad dermatitis and hock burns.

Keywords: broiler, litter quality, litter types, physicochemical characteristics of litter, welfare indicators.

Characterization of plasmid-mediated quinolone resistance genes and extended-spectrum beta-lactamases in non-typhoidal Salmonella enterica isolated from broiler chickens

Research (Published online: 18-06-2022)

14. Characterization of plasmid-mediated quinolone resistance genes and extended-spectrum beta-lactamases in non-typhoidal Salmonella enterica isolated from broiler chickens

Esraa Razzaq Hassan, Abdullah O. Alhatami, Husam Muhsen Abdulwahab and Bradly S. Schneider

Veterinary World, 15(6): 1515-1522

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Antibiotic-resistant Salmonella is a public health concern. Fluoroquinolones and extended-spectrum beta-lactams are widely used for the treatment of Salmonella infections. This study focused on the detection of plasmid-mediated quinolone resistance (PMQR) and extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) genes among multidrug-resistant (MDR) Salmonella enterica isolated from broilers.

Materials and Methods: A total of 40 non-typhoidal S. enterica isolates were collected from 28 broiler chicken farms in four Iraqi Governorates. These isolates were examined for their susceptibility to 10 antimicrobial agents by disk-diffusion method followed by polymerase chain reaction assay for the detection of PMQR determinants and ESBLs genes.

Results: Salmonella strains revealed high levels of resistance to the following antibiotics: Nalidixic acid 100%, levofloxacin (LEV) 97.5%, amoxicillin-clavulanic acid 95.0%, tetracycline 92.5%, and nitrofurantoin 80.0%. Otherwise, all isolates were susceptible to cefotaxime and ceftriaxone. All isolates were MDR, with 15 different profiles observed. Among 38 amoxicillin/clavulanic acid-resistant Salmonella isolates, 20 (52.6%) had the blaTEM gene, while blaSHV, blaCTX-M, and blaOXA genes were not detected. Only 5 (12.8%) out of 39 LEV-resistant isolates were positive for qnrB, three of which had blaTEM. No qnrC or qnrD, qnrS, aac(6')-Ib-cr, qunA, and oqxAB genes were found in any of the tested isolates.

Conclusion: This study demonstrates that broiler chickens may be considered a potential source for spreading MDR non-typhoidal Salmonella and ESBL traits in poultry production. Therefore, it is important to continuously monitor ESBL and PMQR genes to avoid the spread of resistant strains in the food chain and impact public health.

Keywords: antimicrobial resistance, extended-spectrum β-lactamases, food-borne pathogen, multidrug-resistant, poultry, qnr, Salmonella.

Effect of red ginger powder (Zingiber officinale var. rubrum) as a feed additive for starter and finisher broiler chicken to increase immunoglobulin A and immunoglobulin Y expression and to prevent intestinal injury due to Salmonella enteritidis infection

Research (Published online: 18-06-2022)

13. Effect of red ginger powder (Zingiber officinale var. rubrum) as a feed additive for starter and finisher broiler chicken to increase immunoglobulin A and immunoglobulin Y expression and to prevent intestinal injury due to Salmonella enteritidis infection

Herawati Herawati, Agri Kaltaria Anisa, Kurnianto Dwi Widiatmoko, Setiawan Surya Paku Alam, Islah Asyraf Diari, Zhella Happy Naprila, Rr. Lintan Ayu Kisya, Analita Puspabela and Fajar Shodiq Permata

Veterinary World, 15(6): 1506-1514

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Salmonellosis is an infectious disease that often occurs in chickens and is caused by Salmonella enteritidis. The use of antibiotics to prevent this disease can result in the development of resistance in pathogenic bacteria, in addition to the presence of antibiotic residues in consumed carcasses. Red ginger (Zingiber officinale var. rubrum) has active compounds that potentially act as immunomodulators which increase specific and non-specific immune responses through the induction of cytokine production. This study was conducted to determine the effects of red ginger powder mixed in feed for starter and finisher broiler chickens, based on the evaluation of the expression of immunoglobulin A (IgA), histopathologic description of the ileum and cecum, IgA, and immunoglobulin Y (IgY) expression in the spleen, and the isolation count of S. enteritidis in fresh fecal samples.

Materials and Methods: A total of 100 starter and 100 finisher Cobb broiler chickens were divided into four groups, designated as T0, T1, T2, and T3, respectively: Group T0 was fed commercial feed with no added 2% red ginger powder or S. enteritidis induction, and served as a negative control; Group T1 was inoculated with a 0.25 mL S. enteritidis oral induction (1 × 107 colony-forming unit [CFU] [0.5 McFarland standard]), and served as a positive control; Group T2 was fed with feed containing 2% red ginger powder; while Group T3 was fed with feed containing 2% red ginger powder and was orally inoculated with S. enteritidis with a dose similar to T1. The normal feed was given on the 1st–7th days. The mixture of 2% red ginger powder was given on the 7th–15th days. The S. enteritidis was induced on the 15th day (1 × 107 CFU). Necropsy was performed on the 16th day and tissues were fixed in 10% formalin and routinely processed for histopathologic and immunohistochemical analyses. The data were analyzed using a one-way analysis of variance test, Tukey's analysis, and the Mann–Whitney U non-parametric statistical analysis test.

Results: The 2% red ginger powder was found to significantly (p < 0.05) increase IgA expression and additionally decrease tissue damage in the cecum and ileum. It also increased IgA and IgY expression in the spleen. In addition, a decrease was observed in the S. enteritidis number isolated from finisher fresh feces, but none was found in the isolated starter fresh feces.

Conclusion: These findings indicate that the addition of red ginger powder to chicken feed is a potential natural immunomodulator against S. enteritidis infection.

Keywords: bacterial isolation, fresh feces, natural immunomodulator, red ginger powder, Salmonella enteritidis.

Isolation, identification, and antibiogram studies of Escherichia coli from ready-to-eat foods in Mymensingh, Bangladesh

Research (Published online: 15-06-2022)

12. Isolation, identification, and antibiogram studies of Escherichia coli from ready-to-eat foods in Mymensingh, Bangladesh

Fateha Akther Ema, Rifat Noor Shanta, Md. Zaminur Rahman, Md. Ariful Islam and Mst. Minara Khatun

Veterinary World, 15(6): 1497-1505

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Ready-to-eat (RTE) foods are widely used at home, restaurants, and during festivals in Bangladesh. So it is very important to investigate possible microbial contamination in RTE foods. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the total coliform count (TCC), isolate, identify, and characterize the Escherichia coli in RTE foods. The antimicrobial sensitivity of E. coli obtained from RTE foods was also performed using 12 commonly used antibiotics.

Materials and Methods: A total of 100 RTE food samples were collected aseptically and comprised of ten samples each: Burger, pizza, sandwich, chicken roll, chicken meat loaf, chicken fry, salad vegetable, ice-cream, yogurt, and milkshake sold in Mymensingh city. Samples were inoculated onto Eosin methylene blue agar and incubated at 37°C for 24 h. Isolation and identification of bacteria were performed based on cultural, staining, and biochemical properties, followed by a polymerase chain reaction.

Results: The TCC in Chicken meat loaf, burger, pizza, sandwich, salad vegetable ice-cream, and yogurt samples were 3.57 ± 0.96, 3.69 ± 0.08, 3.50 ± 0.60, 2.60 ± 0.20, 4.09 ± 0.29, 4.44 ± 0.25, and 3.14 ± 0.30 mean log colony-forming units ± standard deviation/mL, respectively. The study found a higher prevalence of E. coli in RTE salad vegetable products than in RTE meat and milk products. Forty percent of the mixed vegetable salad samples showed positive results for E. coli. Whereas E. coli prevalence in RTE meat and milk products was 20% and 16.7%, respectively. All the 21 isolates were subjected to antibiotic susceptibility test against 12 different antibiotics. It was observed that 46.1% were susceptible, 16.6% were intermediate, 46.1% were resistant, and 47.6% were multidrug-resistant (MDR) among seven different antibiotic classes. E. coli isolates were resistant to cephalexin, ceftazidime, oxytetracycline, and ampicillin and sensitive to gentamycin, followed by kanamycin, ceftriaxone, colistin, and enrofloxacin..

Conclusion: The study revealed that RTE foods are a serious issue from a public health point of view. To achieve a safer level of E. coli in RTE foods sold for human consumption, public food outlets must improve hygienic and good production procedures. Moreover, MDR E. coli in these foods pose serious public health threats.

Keywords: antibiogram profile, Escherichia coli, prevalence, ready-to-eat foods.

Genetic diversity of Echinococcus spp. in wild carnivorous animals in Kazakhstan

Research (Published online: 15-06-2022)

11. Genetic diversity of Echinococcus spp. in wild carnivorous animals in Kazakhstan

Rabiga Uakhit, Ainura Smagulova, Alfiya Syzdykova, Sarsenbay Abdrakhmanov and Vladimir Kiyan

Veterinary World, 15(6): 1489-1496

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: The study of Echinococcus infection among farm animals in Kazakhstan was carried out to monitor the invasion among livestock and map the data obtained. Unfortunately, there are only partial data on the study of echinococcosis among wild carnivores in Kazakhstan, which makes it difficult to conduct a comparative analysis of the epidemiological situation among wild animals. The present study aimed to estimate the genetic diversity of Echinococcus spp. (Leuckart, 1863) in Kazakhstan based on sequence analysis of cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (cox1) and dehydrogenase subunit 1 (nad1) of worms isolated from wild carnivorous animals wolf (Canis lupus), red fox (Vulpes vulpes) and corsac (Vulpes corsac).

Materials and Methods: DNA from parasite tissue was used as a template for the amplification of the two mitochondrial genes cox1 and nad1. Sequencing was performed according to the manual for the Seq Studio Genetic Analyzer. The multiple alignments of obtained sequences were performed using the ClustalW algorithm in Mega (v.11) software. Alignments were exported as a Nexus extension and used as input for TCS v1.21 for the identification of haplotypes. The phylogenetic analysis was constructed according to the neighbor-joining method using Mega (v.11) software.

Results: Analysis of the extensiveness of echinococcosis invasion showed that 6.3% were wolves, 18.2% were corsacs, and 85% were foxes. In total, 159 adults of Echinococcus spp. from the three species of animals in different parts of Kazakhstan were analyzed, and 17 individual biological samples were successfully sequenced. Sequence analysis of cox1 and nad1 genes revealed two types of echinococcosis – Echinococcus granulosus in red foxes and wolves, and Echinococcus multilocularis in corsacs. Sequencing of a portion of the mitochondrial genome made it possible to determine seven haplotypes of the pathogen in the studied samples of E. granulosus. Molecular analysis of cox1 and nad1 genes of E. multilocularis revealed three new haplotypes, which have significant variability compared with other studied Asian haplotypes.

Conclusion: This study made it possible to fill the gaps in understanding the localization of the foci of the spread of the echinococcosis pathogen among the main wild carnivores and to determine the species reservoir of the pathogen in the greater territory of Kazakhstan.

Keywords: Asian haplotype, corsac, echinococcosis, phylogenetics, red foxes, wolf.

First study of in vitro protective effect of Lepidium meyenii (Maca) on frozen–thawed bovine spermatozoa

Research (Published online: 14-06-2022)

10. First study of in vitro protective effect of Lepidium meyenii (Maca) on frozen–thawed bovine spermatozoa

Johanna Leiva-Revilla, Miriam Rolón, Abolghasem Siyadatpanah, Maria de Lourdes Pereira and Veeranoot Nissapatorn

Veterinary World, 15(6): 1481-1488

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Lepidium meyenii Walp (Maca) is an herbaceous plant that grows in the Peruvian Andes and it has been widely used as a nutritional supplement and fertility enhancer and has been used in the treatment of a variety of diseases, such as rheumatism, respiratory disorders, and anemia. The most notable feature of Maca is its potent antioxidant capacity, which helps in the scavenging of free radicals and protection of cells from oxidative stress. This study aimed to evaluate the in vitro effect of Maca extract on thawed sperm cells from bulls.

Materials and Methods: Three dilutions of 1, 10, and 100 μg/mL of Maca extract were incubated with frozen–thawed bovine semen and analyzed at 1, 3, and 24 h of exposure time, evaluating the activity of the extract on the DNA, motility, morphology, viability, integrity of the membrane and acrosome of spermatozoa.

Results: The Maca extract improved the studied sperm parameters of motility, acrosome integrity, vitality, and DNA integrity of sperm cells at a concentration of 10 –g/mL, and at 1 –g/mL, an improvement was observed in the morphology and integrity of the membrane. However, the best activity of the Maca extract was observed on the DNA integrity of the sperm, which was effective at the three concentrations evaluated after 24 h of incubation.

Conclusion: The results indicate that L. meyenii can help in maintaining spermatozoa cellular integrity after the frozen–thaw process, especially in the protection against DNA fragmentation. Therefore, Maca would be a feasible supplementation to protect sperm to maintain their fertile ability after thawing.

Keywords: Aberdeenangus, antioxidant, bull, frozen-thawed semen, Lepidium meyenii (Maca), reproductive health.

Genetic characterization and distribution of the virus in chicken embryo tissues infected with Newcastle disease virus isolated from commercial and native chickens in Indonesia

Research (Published online: 14-06-2022)

9. Genetic characterization and distribution of the virus in chicken embryo tissues infected with Newcastle disease virus isolated from commercial and native chickens in Indonesia

Liza Angeliya, Yuli Purwandari Kristianingrum, Widya Asmara and Michael Haryadi Wibowo

Veterinary World, 15(6): 1467-1480

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Newcastle disease (ND) is a viral infectious disease that affects commercial and native chickens, resulting in economic losses to the poultry industry. This study aimed to examine the viral strains circulating in commercial and native chickens by genetic characterization and observe the distribution of Newcastle disease virus (NDV) in chicken embryonic tissue.

Materials and Methods: ND was detected using a quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. Genetic characterization of the fusion (F) and hemagglutinin-neuraminidase (HN) genes from the eight NDVs was performed using specific primers. The sequence was compared with that of other NDVs from GenBank and analyzed using the MEGA-X software. The distribution of NDV in chicken embryos was analyzed based on lesions and the immunopositivity in immunohistochemistry staining.

Results: Based on F gene characterization, velogenic NDV strains circulating in commercial and native chickens that showed varying clinical symptoms belonged to genotype VII.2. Lentogenic strains found in chickens without clinical symptoms were grouped into genotype II (unvaccinated native chickens) and genotype I (vaccinated commercial chickens). Amino acid variations in the HN gene, namely, the neutralization epitope and antigenic sites at positions 263 and 494, respectively, occurred in lentogenic strains. The NDV reaches the digestive and respiratory organs, but in lentogenic NDV does not cause significant damage, and hence embryo death does not occur.

Conclusion: This study showed that velogenic and lentogenic NDV strains circulated in both commercial and native chickens with varying genotypes. The virus was distributed in almost all organs, especially digestive and respiratory. Organ damage in lentogenic infection is not as severe as in velogenic NDV. Further research is needed to observe the distribution of NDV with varying pathogenicity in chickens.

Keywords: fusion, gene characterization, hemagglutinin-neuraminidase, Newcastle disease, pathogenicity, viral distribution.

Implications of sperm heat shock protein 70-2 in bull fertility

Review (Published online: 13-06-2022)

8. Implications of sperm heat shock protein 70-2 in bull fertility

Zulfi Nur Amrina Rosyada, Mokhamad Fakhrul Ulum, Ligaya I. T. A. Tumbelaka, Dedy Duryadi Solihin, Bambang Purwantara and Erdogan Memili

Veterinary World, 15(6): 1456-1466

ABSTRACT

Heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) is one of the most abundant chaperone proteins. Their function is well documented in facilitating the protein synthesis, translocation, de novo folding, and ordering of multiprotein complexes. HSP70 in bovine consists of four genes: HSP70-1, HSP70-2, HSP70-3, and HSP70-4. HSP70-2 was found to be involved in fertility. Current knowledge implicates HSP70-2 in sperm quality, sperm capacitation, sperm–egg recognition, and fertilization essential for bull reproduction. HSP70-2 is also involved in the biological processes of spermatogenesis, as it protects cells from the effects of apoptosis and oxidative stress. Fertilization success is not only determined by the amount of sperm found in the female reproductive tract but also by the functional ability of the sperm. However, subfertility is more likely to be associated with changes in sperm molecular dynamics not detectable using conventional methods. As such, molecular analyses and omics methods have been developed to monitor crucial aspects of sperm molecular morphology that are important for sperm functions, which are the objectives of this review.

Keywords: fertility, heat shock protein, protective, semen quality, stress.

Leptospirosis in rats and livestock in Bantul and Gunungkidul district, Yogyakarta, Indonesia

Research (Published online: 12-06-2022)

7. Leptospirosis in rats and livestock in Bantul and Gunungkidul district, Yogyakarta, Indonesia

Sunaryo Sunaryo and Dwi Priyanto

Veterinary World, 15(6): 1449-1455

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: The animal reservoir of leptospirosis is comprised of both domestic and wild mammals, with rats known as the most important in the spread of the disease. The occurrence of this reservoir in residential areas increases the potential for leptospirosis transmission. This study aimed to investigate the type of reservoirs and estimate the prevalence of leptospirosis in rats and livestock animals in Bantul and Gunungkidul districts, Special Region of Yogyakarta Province, Indonesia.

Materials and Methods: This research utilized a cross-sectional study design. Rat trapping and livestock (cattle, goat, and sheep) blood surveys were conducted at four locations in each district. Samples of rat renal and livestock blood serum were examined using the polymerase chain reaction technique to determine the presence of Leptospira bacteria. The data were analyzed descriptively by describing the species of rats trapped, the types of cattle, and the prevalence of Leptospira in the sample.

Results: The rat species infected with Leptospira in Bantul district consisted of Rattus tanezumi 4.8% (3/63); Rattus norvegicus 12.5% (2/16); Bandicota indica 28.6% (2/7); and Bandicota bengalensis 50.0% (1/2). No rats were found to be positive for Leptospira in Gunungkidul district. The prevalence of Leptospira in cattle was 63.64% (7/11) in Bantul district and 50.00% (8/16) in Gunungkidul district. In goats and sheep, the prevalence of Leptospira was 22.22% (2/9) in Bantul district and 45.16% (14/31) in Gunungkidul district.

Conclusion: The potential exists for transmission of leptospirosis from rats and cattle in Bantul and Gunungkidul Districts. It is necessary to increase leptospirosis awareness. Community education, especially for livestock farmers, needs to be improved to prevent the transmission of leptospirosis from livestock.

Keywords: cattle, leptospirosis, prevalence, rats.

Prevalence, risk factors, and infection intensity of fasciolosis in dairy cattle in Boyolali, Indonesia

Research (Published online: 12-06-2022)

6. Prevalence, risk factors, and infection intensity of fasciolosis in dairy cattle in Boyolali, Indonesia

Heri Kurnianto, Siti Zubaidah Ramanoon, Nor Azlina Abdul Aziz and Soedarmanto Indarjulianto

Veterinary World, 15(6): 1438-1448

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Fasciolosis is a significant problem in veterinary and public health, causing huge economic losses. Epidemiological studies of fasciolosis in dairy cattle in Indonesia are few and existing reports primarily focus on prevalence. This study aimed to determine the prevalence, risk factors, and infection intensity of fasciolosis in dairy cattle in Boyolali, Indonesia.

Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study included 400 dairy cattle from 72 household farms in eight subdistricts. Fecal samples (n=400) were examined using the Flukefinder® kit and the simple sedimentation technique was the gold standard for fasciolosis. In-person interviews using questionnaires collected data on farmers, farms, and animal characteristics. Chi-square and logistic regression analyses were performed to evaluate the associated risk factors for fasciolosis, and p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results: The overall prevalence of fasciolosis in dairy cattle in Boyolali, Indonesia, was 16.50% (95% confidence interval [CI] 12.85-20.15) at the animal level (n = 400), whereas 40.28% at household farms (n = 72) level (95% CI 18.67-51.88). The relative sensitivity and specificity of the Flukefinder® kit compared with those of the gold standard were 79.49% and 92.52%, respectively, with a moderate agreement (kappa=0.59; p < 0.001). Fasciolosis was more likely in cattle originating from the Mojosongo subdistrict than from other subdistricts (odds ratio (OR)=5.28, 95% CI 1.22-22.94); from farms that did not process manure versus from those that did (OR = 3.03, 95% CI 1.43-4.71); and with farmers that had never attended extension programs compared with those who had (OR = 4.72, 95% CI 1.99-11.19). Studied cattle were mostly affected by light Fasciola spp. infections (92.4%, 95% CI 77.8-100%) followed by moderate (6.1%, 95% CI 0-22.2%) and heavy (1.5%, 95% CI 0-5.6%) infections.

Conclusion: Fasciolosis is prevalent in dairy cattle in Boyolali, Indonesia. Control efforts should target the high-risk Mojosongo subdistrict, emphasize the importance of processing manure, and encourage farmers to attend extension programs. Flukefinder® is a practical on-site diagnostic kit for fasciolosis in Indonesian dairy farms. Parasite species identification and a malacological survey of intermediate hosts of Fasciola spp. in the farming environment are required for further research.

Keywords: dairy cattle, fasciolosis, Flukefinder®, Indonesia, prevalence, risk factors.

Epidemiological perspective associated with principal risk factors of Trichinella spiralis infection in pigs and humans in Egypt

Research (Published online: 11-06-2022)

5. Epidemiological perspective associated with principal risk factors of Trichinella spiralis infection in pigs and humans in Egypt

Eman Sayed Mohammed, Asmaa Gahlan Youseef, Asmaa Gaber Mubarak, Amany Sayed Mawas, Fatma Ahmed Khalifa and Wael Felefel

Veterinary World, 15(6): 1430-1437

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: In Egypt, there is a scarcity of recent data on trichinellosis in pigs and humans. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the epidemiological profile and risk factors associated with Trichinella spiralis infection as well as to assess the effectiveness of the trichinoscope and digestion technique in diagnosing trichinellosis.

Materials and Methods: Data were collected on 33812 pigs slaughtered during a year at the Al-Basateen abattoir, Cairo Governorate, Egypt. The slaughtered pigs had already been examined by trichinoscope in the abattoir. The diagnostic effectiveness technique was randomly conducted on 170 pork muscle samples, which were examined using the digestion technique. Furthermore, 90 serum samples from high-risk individuals in Qena and Sohag Governorates, Upper Egypt, were analyzed using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

Results: The investigation revealed that the overall prevalence was 1.06% in pigs by trichinoscope. Of the examined 170 samples, 2.35% and 3.35% were found to harbor Trichinella by trichinoscope and artificial digestion, respectively. Trichinella was identified as T. spiralis using a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique. A significant relationship was affirmed between the prevalence of trichinellosis and the sex and age of the examined pigs. Likewise, for the first time, there was a considerable seasonal trend in the prevalence of Trichinella with the maximum infection, which was observed during Autumn (1.18%). The prevalence of trichinellosis in humans was 10%, with a significant association with age.

Conclusion: Our findings are intended to serve as a starting point for developing effective preventive and control measures for trichinellosis (as application of Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP) in pig farms, stop feeding pigs on garbage as well as, preventing illegal slaughter of pigs outside the slaughterhouses). It also fortifies the establishment of the digestion technique because of its high specificity and sensitivity, although it is difficult to apply to a large number of samples.

Keywords: Egypt, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, humans, pigs, polymerase chain reaction, Trichinella spiralis.

Pathological, molecular, and serological study of small ruminant lentiviruses in Jordan

Research (Published online: 09-06-2022)

4. Pathological, molecular, and serological study of small ruminant lentiviruses in Jordan

Nabil Q. Hailat, Tameem B. Algharaibeh and Laith N. Al-Eitan

Veterinary World, 15(6): 1423-1429

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Maedi-visna is a chronic viral disease of sheep with worldwide distribution causing substantial economic losses to the small ruminant industry. Pneumonia and mastitis are the main manifestations of the disease. This study aimed to investigate the occurrence of maedi-visna virus (MVV) in sheep using histopathology and nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) techniques and also to estimate the seroprevalence of small ruminant lentiviruses (SRLVs) in sheep and goats using commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Materials and Methods: Lung tissue samples from 380 sheep were collected and fixed in 10% formalin for histopathology and molecular diagnosis of MVV. Separately, 806 serum samples were randomly collected from 633 sheep and 173 goats to detect the seroprevalence of SRLVs using ELISA.

Results: The results showed that 4.7% of lung samples (n=190) were positive by both histopathology and nested PCR, 5.8% (n = 380) were positive by histopathology only (have lymphoid follicular hyperplasia), and 7.4% (n = 190) were positive by nested PCR only. Statistical analysis revealed a moderate agreement between the two tests (Kappa=0.451, n = 190). Serology results revealed that sheep and/or goats herd prevalence was 59.8% (n = 87), while individual seroprevalence in sheep (40.1%, n = 633) was significantly higher than that in the other six countries and also significantly higher than that in goats (18.5%, n = 173) (at p < 0.05).

Conclusion: The moderate statistical agreement between nested PCR and histopathological diagnosis of MVV in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded sheep lung tissue samples (Kappa=0.451, n = 190) suggests combining both tests for more sensitive MVV detection in sheep lung samples. SRLVs seropositivity in sheep was significantly higher than in goats, thus, it is of high concern and urges the inquiry into the economic impact of the disease and the financial benefit of adopting eradication measures.

Keywords: caprine arthritis encephalitis virus, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, histopathology, maedi-visna virus, polymerase chain reaction, small ruminant lentiviruses.

Efficacy of common disinfection processes against infective spores (arthroconidia) and mycelia of Microsporum gallinae causing avian dermatophytosis

Research (Published online: 08-06-2022)

3. Efficacy of common disinfection processes against infective spores (arthroconidia) and mycelia of Microsporum gallinae causing avian dermatophytosis

Eakachai Thongkham, Sucheeva Junnu, Glenn Neville Borlace, Suwit Uopasai and Jareerat Aiemsaard

Veterinary World, 15(6): 1413-1422

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Microsporum gallinae is the major dermatophyte species that causes avian dermatophytosis. Disinfection plays an important role in controlling and preventing dermatophytosis; however, information about the effect of common disinfection processes on M. gallinae is limited. This study aimed to investigate the disinfection efficacy of ultraviolet (UV) irradiation, heat treatment, detergents, and germicides against infective spores (arthroconidia) and vegetative mycelia of M. gallinae.

Materials and Methods: The minimum inhibitory and minimum fungicidal concentrations of benzalkonium chloride, chlorhexidine, ethanol, formaldehyde, glutaraldehyde, hydrogen peroxide, phenol, povidone-iodine, and sodium hypochlorite germicides against arthroconidia and mycelia of M. gallinae American type culture collection (ATCC) 90749 were determined by broth microdilution. Time-kill assays were used to determine the fungicidal efficacy of moist heat treatment, UV irradiation, commercially available detergents, and germicides.

Results: There were no significant differences between the arthroconidia and mycelia growth stages of M. gallinae ATCC 90749 in the magnitude of the log10 cell reductions in the number of viable fungal cells induced by the disinfection treatments (all p > 0.05). Moist heat treatment at 40°C did not reduce the number of viable fungal cells at any time (1–60 min); however, treatment at 50°C for 25 min and either 60°C or 80°C for 5 min eliminated > 99.999% of viable fungal cells. Irradiation of fungal cultures with UVC and UVB at doses higher than or equal to 0.4 and 0.8 J/cm2, respectively, resulted in a 5-log10 reduction in the number of viable fungal cells, whereas UVA only reduced the number of viable fungal cells by < 2-log10 up to a dose of 1.6 J/cm2. All the tested detergents demonstrated minimal fungicidal effects with < 1-log10 reductions in the number of viable fungal cells at concentrations up to 8% w/v. All of the tested germicides eradicated the fungus after treatment for 1 min at 1–1000× minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), except for hydrogen peroxide, which was not fungicidal after treatment for 20 min at 100× MIC.

Conclusion: Moist heat treatment at temperatures greater than or equal to 50°C, UVC and UVB irradiation at doses higher than or equal to 0.4 and 0.8 J/cm2, respectively, and treatment with all tested germicides except hydrogen peroxide can be considered effective processes for disinfecting the fungus M. gallinae from the equipment employed in poultry farming. In contrast, commercially available detergents are not suitable for use as M. gallinae disinfectants.

Keywords: arthroconidia, avian dermatophytosis, disinfection processes, Microsporum gallinae.

Analysis of insulin resistance using the non-linear homeostatic model assessment index in overweight canines

Research (Published online: 08-06-2022)

2. Analysis of insulin resistance using the non-linear homeostatic model assessment index in overweight canines

Franco Gonzlez-Villar and Francisco Pérez-Bravo

Veterinary World, 15(6): 1408-1412

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Diabetes mellitus is a carbohydrate metabolism disorder produced mainly by a deficit in insulin production or insulin resistance. The homeostatic model assessment (HOMA) is a broad method for estimating insulin resistance and β-cell function. This study aimed to evaluate the stages of insulin resistance using non-linear HOMA index analysis in normoglycemic normal weight and obese canines.

Materials and Methods: Insulin resistance was evaluated using the mathematical HOMA non-linear model in canines with different body and glycemic conditions. Forty canines were studied, including 20 normoglycemic normal weight canines and 20 normoglycemic obese canines. Chi-square statistical test was applied, in which the body condition and HOMA non-linear index were evaluated. The Spearman correlation test was conducted to evaluate the glycemic and insulin variables in both types of canines.

Results: The Spearman correlation presented a correlation between increased blood glucose levels and insulin in obese canines, with a correlation of 0.79, while no significant changes in insulin were found in normal weight canines with different blood glucose levels, with a correlation of –0.11. The analysis of the non-linear HOMA index showed significant differences between non-linear HOMA insulin resistance in normal weight and obese canines, with a Chi-square statistic of 16.9424 and p = 0.000039. Canine with increased HOMA 2 showed higher levels of insulin with increasing blood glucose compared to those with normal HOMA 2.

Conclusion: The HOMA 2 is a marker for evaluating increased insulin resistance in obese dogs and can be used to determine patients at risk for glycemic alterations.

Keywords: diabetes, glycemia, insulin resistance, overweight.

Comparison of the oxidative respiratory burst and mitogen-induced leukocyte responses of camels, goats, sheep, and cows

Research (Published online: 07-06-2022)

1. Comparison of the oxidative respiratory burst and mitogen-induced leukocyte responses of camels, goats, sheep, and cows

Abeer Al-Hamrashdi, Khalid Al-Habsi, Elshafie I. Elshafie and Eugene H. Johnson

Veterinary World, 15(6): 1398-1407

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: The reports from the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries suggest that camels suffer less compared to goats, sheep, and cows from a number of common infectious diseases in Oman. However, there is no immunological evidence to substantiate this claim. This present study is, therefore, an attempt to study the immunological responses of camels, goats, sheep, and cows by comparing their oxidative respiratory burst of peripheral blood leukocytes (PBLs) as a marker of innate immunity occurring during phagocytosis and the mitogenic responses of their peripheral blood mononuclear leukocytes (PBMLs) as a marker of their adaptive immune response.

Materials and Methods: Ten female adult animals (n = 10) were selected from each species (goats, sheep, and cows). The goats, sheep, and cows were maintained at the Agricultural Experiment Station, while camels were kept at the Royal Camel Corps (RCC). Blood samples were collected from the jugular vein in 7 mL of heparin and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid vacutainer tubes. The oxidative respiratory burst of PBLs was measured using a chemiluminescence (CL) assay. Reactants consisted of 75 μL of whole blood diluted (1:50), 75 μL of luminol/isoluminol, and 75 μL of zymosan opsonized with non-heat inactivated serum/heat-inactivated serum or non-opsonized zymosan. CL responses were measured as relative light units and expressed as the mean count per minute and peak CL values. The mitogenic response of PBMLs to concanavalin A (Con-A), phytohemagglutinin (PHA), and pokeweed mitogen (PWM) was tested using a WST-8 assay and read spectrophotometrically at 450 nm.

Results: The present findings showed that camel PBLs generate significantly higher CL responses, both intracellularly as well as extracellularly, with zymosan opsonized with autologous serum. Camel PBLs demonstrated a significantly higher (p = 0.001) response when stimulated with zymosan opsonized with heat-inactivated serum compared to those of goat, sheep, and cow lymphocytes from camels exhibited significantly higher (p = 0.001) stimulation indices (SI) with Con-A, PHA, and PWM.

Conclusion: The present study suggests that camels are capable of mounting both superior innate as well as adaptive immune responses and provide immunological evidence supporting the belief of some authors, who have proposed that camels are less susceptible to a number of common infectious diseases than other domesticated ruminants.

Keywords: adaptive immune system, chemiluminescence, concanavalin A, innate immune system, phytohemagglutinin, pokeweed mitogen.