A retrospective study of Uncinaria stenocephala in domestic dogs: Age, sex distribution, and risk factors

Research (Published online: 29-01-2021)

34. A retrospective study of Uncinaria stenocephala in domestic dogs: Age, sex distribution, and risk factors

Michail Yur'iyevich Shchelkanov, Tatyana Vladimirovna Tabakaeva, Pavel Vasilevich Fomenko, Ekaterina Michailovna Kim, Anton Vadimovich Tabakaev and Irina Vyacheslavovna Galkina

Veterinary World, 14(1): 265-269

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Uncinaria infection often appears in domestic dogs. In the present study, parasitological examination of fecal samples from 782 dogs were analyzed for the presence of Uncinaria stenocephala.

Materials and Methods: Fecal samples were analyzed by means of a standardized flotation method using a saturated salt solution containing NaNO3 (specific gravity 1.38), with a centrifugation step.

Results: The highest prevalence rates were found among young adult dogs (8.3%), followed by puppies (5.4%); the lowest prevalence rates were found in dogs older than 3 years (4.3%). The prevalence was 5.8% among female dogs and 7.2% in male dogs. Coinfections with roundworms and protozoan parasites were frequently observed in U. stenocephala-positive dogs (15%). In total, three types of coinfections were registered. Coinfection of U. stenocephala + Sarcocystids oocysts was recorded in 19.1% of the dogs (n=10). This may relate to higher prevalence of S. oocysts in dogs (n=153; 19.5%). There were two cases of coinfection of U. stenocephala + Toxocara canis (3.9%), which may relate to low prevalence of T. canis (3.9 %). One case of coinfection of Dipylidium caninum + U. stenocephala (0.1%) also appeared.

Conclusion: The present study showed that male dogs and young dogs were most susceptible to U. stenocephala infection.

Keywords: canine hookworm, dogs, infection, Uncinaria stenocephala.

Evaluator effect on the ultrasound measurement of subcutaneous fat deposition and loin eye area from weaning to slaughter lambs

Research (Published online: 28-01-2021)

33. Evaluator effect on the ultrasound measurement of subcutaneous fat deposition and loin eye area from weaning to slaughter lambs

Fernando Miranda de Vargas Junior, Tatiane Fernandes, Alexsander Toniazzo de Matos, Alexandre Rodrigo Mendes Fernandes, Luis Gustavo Castro Alves, Julianna Andrade Rossatti, Gustavo Daniel Vega Britez and Natássia Gabriela Targanski Zagonel

Veterinary World, 14(1): 259-264

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Ultrasound is a non-invasive technique that enables animal evaluation and body condition classification of animals. Although it is not difficult to obtain an image, the analysis of this image can influence results quality. This study aimed to evaluate the repeatability and reproducibility of the technician trained in image interpretation obtained using different ultrasound frequencies.

Materials and Methods: Ninety-six lambs were used, ranging in weight from 15 to 40 kg. The images were captured using a linear probe of 13 cm, with a 3.5 megahertz (MHz) frequency and an acoustic couplant aid "standoff" or using a multifrequency transducer (6 and 8 MHz), on B mode, with a linear probe and 8.0 MHz frequency. All measurements were performed by the same technician, on the left side, between the 12th and 13th rib. Five different evaluators, at two different times, with aid of Image J software measured the loin eye area (LEA; only for images obtained with 3.5 MHz), Longissimus thoracis et lumborum depth (DLM), subcutaneous fat thickness (SFT), subcutaneous fat thickness plus skin (SFST), and skin thickness (ST).

Results: For LEA, DLM, SFT, SFST, and ST, variation was observed (p<0.01) between evaluators; however, there was no difference (p>0.05) between the 2 times of evaluation. Images measurements obtained with a frequency of 8.0 MHz had better repeatability indices and reproducibility indices. Accordingly, the identity test demonstrated that measurements performed on images obtained using 3.5 or 8.0 MHz were not equivalent.

Conclusion: Ultrasound image measurements obtained using an 8.0 MHz frequency were more accurate and precise. It is important to use only one evaluator or providing the simultaneous training for all evaluators.

Keywords: accuracy, identity test, precision, repeatability, reproducibility.

The protective effect of Ocimum sanctum leaf extract against lead acetate-induced nephrotoxicity and hepatotoxicity in mice (Mus musculus)

Research (Published online: 27-01-2021)

32. The protective effect of Ocimum sanctum leaf extract against lead acetate-induced nephrotoxicity and hepatotoxicity in mice (Mus musculus)

Wiwik Misaco Yuniarti, Nina Krismaharani, Priska Ciptaningsih, Kristania Celia, Kharisma Dwi Veteriananta, Anwar Ma'ruf and Bambang Sektiari Lukiswanto

Veterinary World, 14(1): 250-258

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: The liver and kidneys are the most sensitive organs to lead exposure. Drugs that inhibit the actions of lead in the liver and kidneys are required to protect them from such an exposure. This study investigates the protective effect of the leaf extract of Ocimum sanctum (OS) against lead acetate-induced nephrotoxicity and hepatotoxicity in mice.

Materials and Methods: A total of 20 male mice were divided into five equal groups for the 24-day testing period. The negative control group was administered Tween-80 1% orally for 24 days. The positive control group was administered Tween-80 1% orally for 24 days and, starting on day 4, 20 mg/kg BW lead acetate orally once a day for 21 days 1 h after the administration of Tween-80 1%. The other three treatment groups were administered BW OS leaf extract orally in the amount of 140, 280, and 560 mg/kg once a day for 24 days and, starting on day 4, 20 mg/kg BW lead acetate orally for 21 days 1 h after the administration of OS leaf extract. On day 25, the mice were sacrificed to assess the levels of blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine, malondialdehyde (MDA), serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT), and serum glutamic-pyruvic transaminase (SGPT) as well as the histopathological changes.

Results: The OS leaf extract caused a decrease in the scores for hepatocyte degeneration and portal inflammation (p<0.05) but not for hepatic necrosis (p>0.05) in mice exposed to lead. Similar patterns were observed in the effect of OS leaf extract on the renal morphofunction. The OS leaf extract decreased the scores for hydropic degeneration, tubular necrosis, and glomerular necrosis. The levels of MDA, SGOT, SGPT, BUN, and creatinine decreased in the lead-exposed mice treated with OS leaf extract (p<0.05).

Conclusion: The administration of OS leaf extract has a protective effect against lead acetate-induced hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity in mice.

Keywords: kidney, lead acetate, liver, mice, Ocimum sanctum.

Effect of some non-genetic factors on the productivity and profitability of Holstein Friesian dairy cows

Research (Published online: 27-01-2021)

31. Effect of some non-genetic factors on the productivity and profitability of Holstein Friesian dairy cows

Amira M. Abd-El Hamed and Eman R. Kamel

Veterinary World, 14(1): 242-249

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Milk yield (MY) is one of the main factors that affect the economic profitability of dairy farms. Thus, increasing the MY per animal and decreasing the feed cost can lead to economic gains, so the objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of dry period length (DPL), days open (DO), and days in milk (DIM) on the productivity and profitability of dairy cow farms.

Materials and Methods: Data used in this study were taken from 3095 lactation records of Friesian dairy cows of private and governmental sectors. The data were classified into 4 DPL categories: DPL1 <45 days; DPL2 45-60 days; DPL3 61-75 days, and DPL4 >75 days, 3 DO categories: DO1 ≤90 days; DO2 91-110 days and DO3 >111 days, and 8 DIM categories: DIM1 180-210 days; DIM2 211-240 days; DIM3 241-270 days; DIM4 271-300 days; DIM5 301-330 days; DIM6 331-360 days; DIM7 361-447 days; and DIM8 >447 days.

Results: The average net profit (NP) was significantly different (p<0.05) among different categories of DPL, DO, and DIM in both production sectors, where high estimates of NP were calculated for DPL3 (30667.3 EGP), and it was the lowest for DPL1 (19690.6 EGP). DO2 had the highest NP (30754.1 EGP), while DO3 had the lowest NP (24875.5 EGP). DIM3 had the highest NP (29569.3 EGP), while DIM8 had the lowest NP (19528.4 EGP).

Conclusion: Finally, we can conclude that DPL 61-75 days, DO 91-110 days, and DIM 241-270 days had the highest level of total MY, total return, and NP. Private dairy cow farms achieve a higher level of NP than governmental ones under subtropical Egyptian conditions.

Keywords: 305-milk yield, days in milk, days open, dry period length, Holstein Friesian, profitability.

The inclusion of black cumin meal improves the carcass characteristics of growing Awassi lambs

Research (Published online: 26-01-2021)

30. The inclusion of black cumin meal improves the carcass characteristics of growing Awassi lambs

Belal S. Obeidat

Veterinary World, 14(1): 237-241

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Black cumin meal (BCM) is the principal by-product that can be obtained from black cumin seed (Nigella sativa L) after the oil is removed from the fruit and represents 70-75% of the fruit weight. The aim of this experiment was to assess the influence of feeding BCM on the carcass characteristics and meat quality of growing lambs.

Materials and Methods: Twenty-four Awassi lambs were randomly divided into two dietary treatments. The lambs were penned individually in single pens and provided access to ad libitum feed and water. The dietary treatments were no BCM (control [CON]; n=12) or 150 g BCM/kg (BCM 150; n=12) of dietary dry matter.

Results: Lambs fed BCM had greater (p≤0.01) fasting live BW, and hot and cold carcass weights. Leg fat and eye muscle depth were lower (p≤0.05) in CON versus BCM lambs. Meat whiteness (L*), redness (a*), and yellowness did not differ between lambs fed the two diets.

Conclusion: The inclusion of BCM improves lamb carcass characteristics, but does not affect lamb meat quality.

Keywords: Awassi lambs, black cumin meal, carcass characteristics and meat quality.

Profiles of progesterone and bovine interferon-τ in repeat breeding and non-repeat breeding Aceh cows

Research (Published online: 26-01-2021)

29. Profiles of progesterone and bovine interferon-τ in repeat breeding and non-repeat breeding Aceh cows

Husnurrizal Husnurrizal, Tongku Nizwan Siregar, Gholib Gholib, Budianto Panjaitan, Teuku Armansyah and Sri Wahyuni

Veterinary World, 14(1): 230-236

ABSTRACT

Aim: This study aimed at determining the profiles of progesterone and bovine interferon-τ (bIFN-τ) and the correlation between the two in repeat breeding (RB) Aceh cattle and non-RB Aceh cattle.

Materials and Methods: The study was performed on five RB and five non-RB Aceh cows. These cows were subjected to estrous synchronization using the prostaglandin F2 alpha hormone, which was followed by artificial insemination (AI). Serum samples were collected on days 5, 6, 7, 15, 16, and 17 after AI to measure the concentration of progesterone at the beginning and end of the luteal phase and from days 14 to 18 after AI to measure the concentration of bIFN-τ. The concentrations of progesterone and bIFN-τ were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Pregnancy examinations were performed by ultrasonography on days 25, 35, 45, and 55 after AI. Data for progesterone and bIFN-τ concentrations were analyzed using the Mann–Whitney and t-tests, and the correlation between progesterone and bIFN-τ was analyzed using the Spearman correlation test.

Results: The average concentration of progesterone in RB Aceh cows tended to be lower than non-RB Aceh cows, but it was not significantly different (p>0.05). Similar results also found in the concentration of bIFN-τ which RB Aceh cows tended to have lower bIFN-τ concentrations compared to non-RB Aceh cows, but it was also not significantly different (p>0.05). Moreover, the concentrations of progesterone and bIFN-τ in RB and non-RB Aceh cows did not show a significant correlation (p>0.05). These results of the ultrasonography showed that non-RB Aceh cows were pregnant from day 25 to day 55 after AI, whereas RB Aceh cows were not pregnant and had early embryonic death.

Conclusion: The concentrations of progesterone and bIFN-τ in non-RB Aceh cows tended to be higher than those in RB Aceh cows, although, it was not significantly different. Non-RB Aceh cows were able to maintain pregnancy until day 55, whereas RB Aceh cows were diagnosed with early embryonic death before day 25 after AI.

Keywords: Aceh cows, bovine interferon-τ, repeat breeding.

Prevalence and phenotypic characterization of Salmonella enterica isolates from three species of wild marine turtles in Grenada, West Indies

Research (Published online: 25-01-2021)

28. Prevalence and phenotypic characterization of Salmonella enterica isolates from three species of wild marine turtles in Grenada, West Indies

Jonnel J. Edwards, Victor A. Amadi, Esteban Soto, Michele T. Jay-Russel, Peiman Aminabadi, Kirsten Kenelty, Kate Charles, Gitanjali Arya, Ketna Mistry, Roxanne Nicholas, Brian P. Butler and David Marancik

Veterinary World, 14(1): 222-229

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Salmonella enterica causes enteric disease in mammals and may potentially be transmitted from marine turtles that shed the pathogen in the environment. Marine turtle-associated human salmonellosis is a potential public health concern in Grenada, as the island supports populations of leatherback turtles (Dermochelys coriacea), hawksbill turtles (Eretmochelys imbricata), and green turtles (Chelonia mydas) that interface with veterinarians and conservation workers, the local population, and the thousands of visitors that frequent the island yearly. To date, the prevalence of S. enterica has only been examined in a small subset of marine turtles in the Caribbean and no studies have been conducted in Grenada. The aim of this study was to quantify the prevalence of S. enterica in leatherback, hawksbill and green turtles in Grenada, characterize phenotypes and DNA profiles, and explore the potential risk to human health in the region.

Materials and Methods: A total of 102 cloacal swabs were obtained from nesting leatherback turtles and foraging hawksbill and green turtles. Samples were cultured on enrichment and selective media and isolates were phenotypically characterized using serotyping, pulsed-phase gel electrophoresis, and antibiotic susceptibility. Enrichment broths were additionally screened by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using S. enterica-specific primers.

Results: S. enterica was cultured from 15/57 (26.3%) leatherback turtles, 0/28 hawksbill, and 0/17 green turtles. This included S. enterica serovars Montevideo, S. I:4,5,12:i:-, Salmonella Typhimurium, Salmonella Newport, S. I:6,7:-:-, and S. I:4,5,12:-:-. Five/15 leatherback turtles carried multiple serovars. Eight pulsotype groups were identified with multiple clustering; however, there was no clear association between pulsotype group and serotype profile. Five/71 isolates showed resistance to streptomycin or ampicillin. Twenty-one/57 leatherback turtles, 14/28 hawksbill turtles, and 8/17 green turtles tested positive for S. enterica by quantitative PCR.

Conclusion: Nesting leatherback turtles actively shed S. enterica and poses a risk for zoonosis; however, the presence of viable pathogen in green and hawksbill species is unclear. These findings help elucidate the role of marine turtles as potential sources of zoonotic S. enterica and provide baseline data for one health research in Grenada and the wider Caribbean region.

Keywords: antimicrobials, marine turtles, pulsotypes, Salmonella enterica, serotypes, zoonosis.