A parasitological survey of zoonotic cestodes carried by house rats in Aswan, Egypt, reveals cryptic diversity at the molecular level

Research (Published online: 23-08-2021)

24. A parasitological survey of zoonotic cestodes carried by house rats in Aswan, Egypt, reveals cryptic diversity at the molecular level

Abuelhassan Elshazly Younis, Atef Ibrahim Saad, Islam Refaat Mohamed El-Akhal and Nagla Mustafa Kamel Saleh

Veterinary World, 14(8): 2160-2169

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Some rat cestodes are zoonotic and are capable of parasitizing humans and animals, raising serious concerns regarding human and veterinary health. The study aimed to determine the prevalence and risk factors for cestodes in Egyptian house rats and to characterize the cestodes molecularly.

Materials and Methods: The current survey examined 115 house rats (Rattus rattus) in two cities (Edfu and Aswan) in Egypt's Aswan Governorate for cestode infection using integrated molecular approaches (polymerase chain reaction, sequencing, and phylogenetic analysis) and morphological/morphometrical approaches.

Results: The cestodes identified in this study exhibited the typical morphological characteristics of Hymenolepis diminuta (Rudolphi, 1819), Hymenolepis nana (Siebold, 1852) (from rat intestine), and Hydatigera taeniaeformis (from rat liver). The species prevalence rates from these three studies were reported to be 8.7%, 10.4%, and 20.9%, respectively. The ribosomal DNA (ITS1, 18S, and complete ITS) sequences revealed that the hymenolepid sequences were highly distinct but were related to other sequences in the GenBank database, with some sequences showing high similarities to those of H. nana and H. diminuta. In addition, the H. taeniaeformis sequences (ITS2 and mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 [mtCOX1]) obtained in this study were highly similar to some Taenia taeniaeformis GenBank sequences. The constructed phylogram revealed that the hymenolepidid tapeworms examined in this study were classified into four major branches (the majority of which were hybrids of the two species) and belonged to the genus Hymenolepis. In addition, the phylogram of H. taeniaeformis assigned this species to T. taeniaeformis.

Conclusion: When typical hymenolepid morphology is combined with molecular and phylogenetic divergence, it may indicate the existence of possible cryptic species. In addition, on the basis of the phylogenetic analysis, genetic diversity within T. taeniaeformis may exist as determined by comparing the metacestode mtCOX1 sequences. The current study presents the prevalence values of zoonotic cestodes and contributes to the body of knowledge, including identification keys and the use of molecular tools for species confirmation.

Keywords: cestodes, cryptic diversity, molecular identification, rat.

New phenomena for clinicians, model of Candida albicans mobilization before and after biofilm formation in the intestinal mucosa of Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus)

Research (Published online: 23-08-2021)

3. New phenomena for clinicians, model of Candida albicans mobilization before and after biofilm formation in the intestinal mucosa of Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus)

Masfufatun Masfufatun, Loo Hariyanto Raharjo, Harsono Wiradinata, Putu Oky Ari Tania, Ni'matuzahroh Ni'matuzahroh and Afaf Baktir

International Journal of One Health, 7(2): 165-170

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: The virulence and antifungal resistance of Candida albicans are recently known for their ability to form biofilm. This research aimed to construct an in vivo model of C. albicans biofilm in Wistar rats' intestinal mucosa and study their mobilization while in a planktonic and biofilm formation. In this study, there was one treatment group that was treated with three antibiotics, immunosuppressants, and C. albicans.

Materials and Methods: This study was divided into control and treatment groups. The data sampling was conducted after C. albicans inoculation. The C. albicans biofilm formation stage was monitored with colony-forming units method calculation every week post-inoculation and then observed by the confocal laser scanning microscope.

Results: The planktonic C. albicans overgrowth occurred up to 14 days after inoculation. The formation and maturation of C. albicans biofilm in the intestinal mucosa started in the 28th and 35th-day post-inoculation, respectively. The density of planktonic C. albicans in the stool was dramatically decreased on the 35th day. Before the biofilm formation, the planktonic Candida was carried away by food scraps to be released as a stool. However, there were minuscule or no planktonic Candida observed in the stool during and after biofilm formation. Instead, they were attached to the caecum's mucosa as a biofilm.

Conclusion: We have proved that the planktonic C. albicans with its mobile nature were carried into the stool along with the rest of the feed, as we observed a lot of C. albicans cells found in the stool. Meanwhile, on day 28 after administration of antibiotics and immunosuppressants, no C. albicans was found in the stool samples, and at the same time, we observed C. albicans cells and their matrix attached to the intestinal mucosa as a biofilm.

Keywords: biofilm, candidiasis, Candida albicans, confocal laser scanning microscope, intestinal mucosa.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection of avian origin: Zoonosis and one health implications

Review (Published online: 21-08-2021)

23. Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection of avian origin: Zoonosis and one health implications

Wafaa A. Abd El-Ghany

Veterinary World, 14(8): 2155-2159

ABSTRACT

Zoonotic diseases are diseases that are transmitted from animals to humans and vice versa. Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) is a pathogen with zoonotic nature. Commercial poultry could be infected with P. aeruginosa, especially at young ages with great losses. Infection of embryos with P. aeruginosa induced death in the shell, while infection of chicks led to septicemia, respiratory and enteric infections, and high mortality. Humans are also highly susceptible to P. aeruginosa infection, and the disease is associated with severe lung damage, especially in immunocompromised patients. Chicken carcass and related poultry retail products play an important role in the transmission of P. aeruginosa to humans, especially after processing in abattoirs. Treatment of P. aeruginosa infection is extremely difficult due to continuous development of antibiotic resistance. The transfer of antibiotic-resistant genes from poultry products to humans creates an additional public health problem. Accordingly, this study focused on avian pseudomonad, especially P. aeruginosa, with respect to infection of poultry, transmission to humans, and treatment and antibiotic resistance.

Keywords: antibiotic resistance, human, poultry, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, zoonosis.

Characterization of serum protein electrophoresis patterns and C-reactive protein in canine tick-borne diseases

Research (Published online: 21-08-2021)

22. Characterization of serum protein electrophoresis patterns and C-reactive protein in canine tick-borne diseases

Sariya Asawakarn and Piyanan Taweethavonsawat

Veterinary World, 14(8): 2150-2154

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Canine tick-borne diseases are important diseases with a worldwide distribution. In Thailand, the most important canine tick-borne diseases are ehrlichiosis, babesiosis, and hepatozoonosis. This study aimed to determine the serum protein electrophoresis patterns (SPEPs) and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels associated with Ehrlichia canis, Babesia canis, or Hepatozoon canis single infections.

Materials and Methods: A total of 650 canine blood samples were collected from animal hospitals and clinics in Bangkok and its vicinity to examine health status and blood parasite infection. Suspected blood parasite infections were examined by buffy coat thin blood smear and confirmed by polymerase chain reaction. Normal dog and positive E. canis, B. canis, and H. canis single infections and serum protein profiles were determined by agarose gel electrophoresis. CRP concentration was measured by fluorescent immunoassay.

Results: In dogs infected with E. canis, B. canis, and H. canis single infections, albumin levels and A/G ratios significantly decreased, whereas β2-globulin levels increased (p<0.05). The γ-globulin level significantly increased in E. canis and H. canis infections (p<0.05). A monoclonal gammopathy pattern was observed in E. canis and B. canis single infections, whereas β-γ bridging patterns and increased β- and γ-globulin fractions were found in H. canis single infections. The CRP level increased in dogs with blood parasite single infections and may be related to the pathogenesis of the infection.

Conclusion: SPEPs and CRP levels can be used to monitor health status and blood parasite problems in infected dogs.

Keywords: blood parasites, C-reactive protein, dog, electrophoresis, serum protein.

Novel reassortant of H9N2 avian influenza viruses isolated from chickens and quails in Egypt

Research (Published online: 20-08-2021)

21. Novel reassortant of H9N2 avian influenza viruses isolated from chickens and quails in Egypt

Moataz Elsayed, AbdelSatar Arafa, Shahira Abdelwahab, Amro Hashish and Ahmed Youssef

Veterinary World, 14(8): 2142-2149

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Poultry infections with H9N2 avian influenza viruses (AIVs) are endemic in Egypt. This study determined the genetic changes in the sequences of H9N2 AIVs isolated from chicken and quails in Egypt, including determining genetic reassortment and detecting the main genetic changes in hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA) genes.

Materials and Methods: Swab samples were collected from chicken and quails, examined through reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, and AIVs from positive samples were isolated in embryonated chicken eggs. Complete genome sequencing and phylogenetic analyses were conducted for two H9N2 AIV isolates, and sequences of HA and NA gene segments were analyzed in another two isolates.

Results: A novel reassortant virus was identified from a commercial chicken flock (A/chicken/Egypt/374V/2016) and quails from a live bird market (A/quail/Egypt/1253V/2016). The reassortant viruses acquired four genome segments from the classic Egyptian H9N2 viruses (HA, NA, NP, and M) and four segments from Eurasian AIVs (PB2, PB1, PA, and NS). Many genetic changes have been demonstrated in HA and NA genes. The isolated novel reassortant H9N2 virus from quails showed amino acid mutations in the antigenic sites on the globular head of the mature HA monomer matched with the parent Egyptian H9N2 virus.

Conclusion: This work described the genetic characterization of a novel reassortment of the H9N2 virus in Egypt. The emergence of new reassorted AIV viruses and genome variability raises the concern of an influenza pandemic with zoonotic potentials.

Keywords: genes, H9N2, influenza, mutations, poultry, reassortment.

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

Research (Published online: 20-08-2021)

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

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

Veterinary World, 14(8): 2131-2141

ABSTRACT

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

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

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

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

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

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

Research (Published online: 18-08-2021)

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

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

Veterinary World, 14(8): 2124-2130

ABSTRACT

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

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

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

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

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