Synchronization of rumen degradable protein with non-fiber carbohydrate on microbial protein synthesis and dairy ration digestibility

Research (Published online: 05-02-2022)

3. Synchronization of rumen degradable protein with non-fiber carbohydrate on microbial protein synthesis and dairy ration digestibility

Annisa Rosmalia, Idat Galih Permana and Despal Despal

Veterinary World, 15(2): 252-261

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Dairy ration formulations should consider the synchronization of the rumen degradable protein (RDP) to rumen undegradable protein (RUP) ratio (RDPR) with non-fiber carbohydrate (NFC) to achieve optimum microbial protein synthesis (MPS), reduce feed costs, and reduce N excretion to the environment. This study aimed to investigate the effect of RDPR and NFC synchronization on in vitro digestibility, fermentability, and MPS.

Materials and Methods: The experiment used a 3×3 factorial randomized block design with four replications. The first factor was RDPR (RDPR1=50:50; RDPR2=55:45; RDPR3=60:40) and the second factor was NFC levels (NFC1=30%, NFC2=35%, NFC3=40%). The experimental diets were evaluated using a two-stage in vitro method. The examined parameters included rumen pH, NH3 concentration, total volatile fatty acid (VFA) concentration, the molar proportion of VFAs, rumen microbes (protozoa and total bacteria population), and MPS. Data were analyzed using ANOVA, followed by the Duncan test.

Results: The results show that neither RDPR nor NFC affected rumen pH, NH3, total VFA, and the rumen microbe population. The interaction between RDPR and NFC affected the molar proportion of acetate, iso-butyrate, and n-valerate. The combination of RDPR1 and NFC1 produced a lower molar proportion of acetate (49.73%) than the other treatment combinations (>54%). The acetate to propionate ratio was influenced by the NFC levels, in which NFC2 and NFC3 produced the highest ratio (p<0.05). MPS was affected by RDPR and NFC, but not by their interaction. Treatments NFC2 and RDPR3 produced the highest MPS. NFC affected the dry matter and organic matter digestibility (DMD and OMD), with treatment NFC3 resulting in the highest DMD and OMD.

Conclusion: The combination of a 60:40 RDPR with 35% NFC resulted in the best synchronization of protein and energy available for MPS and digestion activity in the rumen.

Keywords: dairy ration digestibility, microbial protein synthesis, rumen degradable protein, rumen undegradable protein, synchronization.

Most common inappropriate drug usage factors in anthelmintic treatment on sheep farms in Latvia

Research (Published online: 04-02-2022)

2. Most common inappropriate drug usage factors in anthelmintic treatment on sheep farms in Latvia

Līga Kovaļčuka, Dace Keidāne, Alīna Kļaviņa, Marta Barbara Grasberga and Armands Vekšins

Veterinary World, 15(2): 244-251

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: There is little understanding about antiparasitic drug prescription trends and implementation to reduce possible drug overuse or misuse worldwide. This study aimed to review sheep parasite control strategies and antiparasitic drug use habits in Latvia. To the best of the author's knowledge, this is the first study in the world that describes how antiparasitic drugs are used and what are the most common drug usage errors in a sheep farm.

Materials and Methods: A semi-structured questionnaire was designed to collect relevant information from face-to-face interviews to assess 22 sheep farmers' knowledge and management procedures in farms. We collected information about animal feeding, herding, parasite diagnostics, and antiparasitic drug usage. The questionnaire summary included information on pasture use, parasite control management, and anthelmintic drug choice/use.

Results: Only 36% of farms regularly managed parasite control by analyzing fecal samples for parasites, but prophylactic deworming was employed in all farms. Ivermectin, albendazole, levamisole, and monepantel were used on the farms and most of the farms were multidrug users; 77.3% of the farms used albendazole and 72.7% used ivermectin.

Conclusion: The results indicated a lack of parasitological examination and parasite control of the flock, mostly empiric drug selection, incorrect dosing, inaccurate drug administration, drug storage, and use errors. A proactive approach to herd health planning, regular parasitic control, and prophylactic measures may benefit farmers and veterinarians.

Keywords: anthelmintics, drug resistance, drug usage errors, sheep.

Molecular prevalence of Dirofilaria immitis and Wolbachia infections in pet and semi-domesticated cats in Bangkok, Thailand

Research (Published online: 03-02-2022)

1. Molecular prevalence of Dirofilaria immitis and Wolbachia infections in pet and semi-domesticated cats in Bangkok, Thailand

Naris Thengchaisri, Tawin Inpankaew, Surapong Arthitwong, Jörg M. Steiner and Panpicha Sattasathuchana

Veterinary World, 15(2): 239-243

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Although cats are not natural hosts for heartworm infections (Dirofilaria immitis), evidence suggests that feline heartworm disease can be detrimental because of a severe inflammatory response. Recent studies have found that infection with bacteria of the genus Wolbachia is the principal cause of acute inflammatory filaria disease; nonetheless, the prevalence of cats naturally infected with heartworms and Wolbachia remains unclear. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence and current distribution of feline heartworm disease and its association with Wolbachia infection in pet and semi-domesticated cats in Bangkok, Thailand.

Materials and Methods: A total of 260 cats (130 pet cats and 130 semi-domesticated cats) were enrolled in this study. Blood samples were placed into ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid tubes for hematological analysis and DNA extraction. A polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed to analyze samples for the presence of D. immitis and Wolbachia infections.

Results: The prevalence (95% confidence interval [CI]) of D. immitis infection in pet, semi-domesticated, and all cats were 3.9% (1.3-8.8%), 27.7% (20.2-36.2%), and 19.6% (15.0-25.0%), respectively. The prevalence (95% CI) of Wolbachia infection in pet, semi-domesticated, and all cats were 18.5% (12.2-26.2%), 31.5% (23.7-40.3%), and 25.0% (19.9-30.7%), respectively. The prevalence of D. immitis and Wolbachia infections in semi-domesticated cats was significantly higher than in pet cats (p=0.002 and p=0.022, respectively). There was a significant association between D. immitis and Wolbachia infections (p<0.001). There was also a significant association between D. immitis infection and the presence of eosinophilia (p<0.045).

Conclusion: From the PCR analysis, it can be concluded that semi-domesticated cats were at higher risk for D. immitis infection than pet cats. There was a significant association between positive D. immitis infection and positive Wolbachia infection. Combinations of anthelmintic and antimicrobial therapy should be considered in heartworm-positive cats.

Keywords: cat, heartworm, prevalence, Wolbachia.

First report on molecular characteristics and risk factor analysis of Ehrlichia canis in dogs in Khon Kaen, Thailand

Research (Published online: 31-01-2022)

29. First report on molecular characteristics and risk factor analysis of Ehrlichia canis in dogs in Khon Kaen, Thailand

Thongphet Mitpasa, Biethee Rani Sarker, Arayaporn Macotpet, Pattara-Anong Bupata, Somboon Sangmaneedet and Weerapol Taweenan

Veterinary World, 15(1): 232-238

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Ehrlichia canis is a well-known cause of both anemia and thrombocytopenia in dogs. There are insufficient epidemiological data on this blood parasite in Thailand and the association of infections with hematological abnormalities. This study aimed to analyze the molecular characteristics and to identify E. canis as well as the risk factors associated with E. canis infection in dogs in Khon Kaen, Thailand.

Materials and Methods: Blood samples from 126 dogs that visited animal clinics were subjected to molecular detection using nested polymerase chain reaction for E. canis 16S rRNA gene. The risk factors and hematological profiles associated with the infection were analyzed using the logistic regression test in program SPSS version 19.

Results: Forty-one dogs were infected, indicating a 32.5% molecular infection rate of E. canis. The factors significantly associated with E. canis infection include animal housing status, low packed cell volume, low red blood cell count, and low platelets (p<0.05). Ten positive samples were amplified, sequenced, and phylogenetically analyzed. Sequence and phylogenetic analysis confirmed the current ten samples as E. canis compared with reference sequences in GenBank, using the BLAST program hosted by NCBI, which showed 99.74-100% similarity.

Conclusion: This study provided the first data of infection rate of E. canis using nested PCR and molecular characteristics of E. canis in randomly selected domestic dogs in Khon Kaen, Thailand.

Keywords: Ehrlichia canis, molecular characteristics, nested polymerase chain reaction, phylogenetic analysis, Thailand.

Prospects of bacteriophage collections in disinfectant applications

Research (Published online: 31-01-2022)

28. Prospects of bacteriophage collections in disinfectant applications

Samat Serikovich Issabekov, Nazym Syrymkyzy Syrym, Aidar Adilkhanovich Sambetbayev, Kuantar Daulenovich Alikhanov and Bolat Amanbaevich Yespembetov

Veterinary World, 15(1): 220-231

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: The search and development of disinfectants is promising worldwide. However, there are currently no international regulations governing the testing and registration of germicidal agents. Moreover, the number of safety requirements for disinfectants for human, animal, and environmental health has increased. This research aimed to evaluate the prospects of using a collection of bacteriophages for disinfectant purposes.

Materials and Methods: The objects of research were bacteriophages isolated from a total of 129 environmental samples obtained from seven sources in and around livestock buildings: (1) Feed residues from feeders and automatic drinkers; (2) washouts from floors, walls, and posts; (3) soil from underneath floors; (4) bedding; (5) sewage; (6) ponds; and (7) soil from paddocks. The corresponding strains were used as indicator test cultures for bacteriophages. The authors employed the following methods to work with bacteriophages: (a) Bacteriophage isolation methods, (b) the Appelman method (i.e., serial dilutions), (c) the Grazia method (i.e., agar layers), (d) phage titration on solid media, and (e) the bacterial phagotyping method.

Results: The results of the analysis on the bacteria of the Enterobacteriaceae family isolated 11 bacteriophages; one bacteriophage is specific to Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and another one is specific to Brucella abortus. The results also indicate that all bacteriophage strains of the Enterobacteriaceae family demonstrate lysis at a pH of 7.0. In addition, this polyphage lyses all strains of sensitive bacterial cultures. The optimum temperature for the cultivation of bacteriophages is 35°C. While using electron microscopy to study the consortium of bacteriophages, clearly distinguishable virions of bacteriophages were found in the microscope field of view.

Conclusion: The main parameters for the production of polyphages include the ratio of the bacteriophage and its corresponding bacteriophage-sensitive culture, the pH of the cultivation medium, and the cultivation time of the bacteriophage system as well as the sensitive bacterium. With regard to the aforementioned parameters, the results indicate that the average value for all bacteriophages is 1:2, and the average cultivation medium pH is 7.0 for all bacteriophages. The average cultivation time for all bacteriophages is 18-24 h.

Keywords: bacteriophages, biological preparation, disinfection, lytic activity, strain, titer.

Epizootiological aspects of natural nidality of Ixodes tick-borne borreliosis in the Moscow region (Russian Federation)

Research (Published online: 30-01-2022)

27. Epizootiological aspects of natural nidality of Ixodes tick-borne borreliosis in the Moscow region (Russian Federation)

Almas Mukhametov, Mikhail Osadchuk, Iza Berechikidze and Nikolay Pronkin

Veterinary World, 15(1): 213-219

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: At present, tick-borne borreliosis is the most common infectious disease transmitted by ticks in Europe, Asia, and North America. This study aimed to examine the epizootiological aspects of the natural nidality of tick-borne borreliosis in Moscow region (the Russian Federation).

Materials and Methods: A total of 2,537 ticks representing two species were collected, namely, Ixodes ricinus and Dermacentor reticulatus. The activity, number of ticks, and Borrelia infestation rates were investigated during a high season, that is, from early spring to mid-autumn.

Results: In May, amount of I. ricinus spp. was found 2.5 times more than those representing D. reticulatus spp. (p≤0.01). In June, August, and September, the amount of I. ricinus was 9.0 (p≤0.0001), 2.0 (p≤0.05), and 5.0 times higher, respectively, compared to D. reticulatus. In the first 10 days of April, the amount of D. reticulatus was 3 times higher than that of I. ricinus (p≤0.02); in the next 10 days, their amounts were equal (p≥0.05) and in the last 10 days the amount of I. ricinus exceeded that of D. reticulatus (p≤0.05) by 1.5 times. In general, Borrelia afzelii, and Borrelia garinii, were detected. In addition, the naturally occurring tick-borne borreliosis pesthole was revealed in the Moscow region.

Conclusion: Borrelia infection rates for ticks comprise 30%. An increase in Borrelia tick infestation was detected within the vicinity of populated areas. The amount of ticks directly depends on the temperature (20°C-25°C) and moisture (from 50%) values.

Keywords: borreliosis, Dermacentor reticulatus, infection, Ixodes ricinus, Ixodes ticks.

Molecular characterization of genes responsible for biofilm formation in Staphylococcus aureus isolated from mastitic cows

Research (Published online: 30-01-2022)

26. Molecular characterization of genes responsible for biofilm formation in Staphylococcus aureus isolated from mastitic cows

Eman Shafeek Ibrahim, Amany Ahmed Arafa, Sohad Mohamed Dorgam, Rasha Hamdy Eid, Nagwa Sayed Atta, Wahid Hussein El-Dabae and Eslam Gaber Sadek

Veterinary World, 15(1): 205-212

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Mastitis is considered a significant disease of lactating animals. There are new attitudes for recognizing genes responsible for causing this disease to overcome and change the manipulation of this problem. This study aimed to isolate and identify Staphylococcus aureus strains from mastitic bovine animals and detect some specific biofilm-forming genes (icaA, icaD, and biofilm-associated protein [bap] genes clfA, fnbA, agrI, agrII, agrIII, agrIV, and cna).

Materials and Methods: A total of 121 mastitic milk samples were analyzed using biochemical tests (catalase test, oxidative-fermentative test, and coagulase test) and Gram stain. Multiplex polymerase chain reaction was applied to characterize biofilm genes (icaA, icaD, bap, clfA, and fnbA) in addition to (agrI, agrII, agrIII, agrIV, and cna).

Results: Among the 121 milk samples, 35 staphylococci isolates were derived with an incidence of 28.92% (35/121); among them, 19 are coagulase positive. Ninety percent of the isolates had ica genes (icaA and icaD) while bap gene was not recognized in any isolate. In addition, the incidence of fnbA, can, and clfA was 89.5% each. The prevalence of agr specific groups (agrI, agrII, agrIII, and agrIV) was 78.9%, 52.6%, 10.5%, and 15.8%, respectively.

Conclusion: This study concluded that S. aureus has variant mechanisms of pathogenicity to form biofilm devoid of carrying a specific gene.

Keywords: biofilm genes, mastitis, molecular identification, Staphylococcus aureus.