Wednesday, 30 March 2022

Polymorphism of leptin gene (single nucleotide polymorphisms c.73T>C) and its association with body weight and body measurements in Madura cattle

Research (Published online: 30-03-2022)
31. Polymorphism of leptin gene (single nucleotide polymorphisms c.73T>C) and its association with body weight and body measurements in Madura cattle
Kuswati Kuswati, Ahmad Furqon, Wike Andre Septian and Trinil Susilawati
Veterinary World, 15(3): 775-781

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Madura cattle is local cattle in Indonesia. This cattle hasphenotypic variations in growth traits. This study aimed to identify leptin (LEP) gene polymorphism exon 2 associated with body measurements in Madura cattle.

Materials and Methods: We recorded body weight (BW) and body measurements of 51 Madura cattle aged 1-4 years in Waru District, Madura. The LEP gene genotyping was conducted using the polymerase chain reaction-restricted fragment length polymorphism method with AciI restriction enzyme.

Results: A 267 bp DNA fragment of the LEP gene was successfully amplified using a pair of primers. This study revealed three genotypes (TT, TC, and CC) and two alleles (T and C). The frequencies of TT, TC, and CC genotypes were 0.275, 0.45, and 0.275, respectively, whereas the frequencies of T and C alleles were 0.500 and 0.500, respectively. The c.73T>C mutation was significantly associated with BW, body length (BL), and chest girth (CG) (p<0.05). Among all genotypes, the TC had the highest BW, BL, and CG.

Conclusion: Conclusively, LEP gene polymorphism (c.73T>C) exon 2 was polymorphic and associated with body measurements, especially BW, BL, and CG.

Keywords: body measurements, leptin, Madura cattle, polymorphism.



Tuesday, 29 March 2022

First study on diversity and antimicrobial-resistant profile of staphylococci in sports animals of Southern Thailand

Research (Published online: 29-03-2022)
30. First study on diversity and antimicrobial-resistant profile of staphylococci in sports animals of Southern Thailand
Punpichaya Fungwithaya, Kanpapat Boonchuay, Ruethai Narinthorn, Narin Sontigun, Chalutwan Sansamur, Yotsapat Petcharat, Thotsapol Thomrongsuwannakij and Tuempong Wongtawan
Veterinary World, 15(3): 765-774

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Staphylococci are commensal bacteria and opportunistic pathogens found on the skin and mucosa. Sports animals are more prone to injury and illness, and we believe that antimicrobial agents might be extensively used for the treatment and cause the existence of antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) bacteria. This study aimed to investigate the diversity and AMR profile of staphylococci in sports animals (riding horses, fighting bulls, and fighting cocks) in South Thailand.

Materials and Methods: Nasal (57 fighting bulls and 33 riding horses) and skin swabs (32 fighting cocks) were taken from 122 animals. Staphylococci were cultured in Mannitol Salt Agar and then identified species by biochemical tests using the VITEK® 2 card for Gram-positive organisms in conjunction with the VITEK® 2 COMPACT machine and genotypic identification by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Antimicrobial susceptibility tests were performed with VITEK® 2 AST-GN80 test kit cards and VITEK® 2 COMPACT machine. Detection of AMR genes (mecAmecC, and blaZ) and staphylococcal chromosomal mec (SCCmec) type was evaluated by PCR.

Results: Forty-one colonies of staphylococci were isolated, and six species were identified, including Staphylococcus sciuri (61%), Staphylococcus pasteuri (15%), Staphylococcus cohnii (10%), Staphylococcus aureus (7%), Staphylococcus warneri (5%), and Staphylococcus haemolyticus (2%). Staphylococci were highly resistant to two drug classes, penicillin (93%) and cephalosporin (51%). About 56% of the isolates were methicillin-resistant staphylococci (MRS), and the majority was S. sciuri (82%), which is primarily found in horses. Most MRS (82%) were multidrug-resistant. Almost all (96%) of the mecA-positive MRS harbored the blaZ gene. Almost all MRS isolates possessed an unknown type of SCCmec. Interestingly, the AMR rate was notably lower in fighting bulls and cocks than in riding horses, which may be related to the owner's preference for herbal therapy over antimicrobial drugs.

Conclusion: This study presented many types of staphylococci displayed on bulls, cocks, and horses. However, we found a high prevalence of MRS in horses that could be transmitted to owners through close contact activities and might be a source of AMR genotype transmission to other staphylococci.

Keywords: antimicrobial resistance, fighting bulls, fighting cocks, riding horses, Staphylococcus.



Physicochemical properties, sensory characteristics, and antioxidant activity of the goat milk yogurt probiotic Pediococcus acidilactici BK01 on the addition of red ginger (Zingiber officinale var. rubrum rhizoma)

Research (Published online: 29-03-2022)
29. Physicochemical properties, sensory characteristics, and antioxidant activity of the goat milk yogurt probiotic Pediococcus acidilactici BK01 on the addition of red ginger (Zingiber officinale var. rubrum rhizoma)
Sri Melia, Indri Juliyarsi and Yulianti Fitri Kurnia
Veterinary World, 15(3): 757-764

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Yogurt contains beneficial probiotics. Addition of red ginger to yogurt as an antioxidant source becomes a way to improve the flavor and functional properties of yogurt. This study aimed to examine yogurt processing and the effect of adding red ginger (Zingiber officinale var. rubrum rhizoma), as an antioxidant source, on Pediococcus acidilactici BK01. It sought to observe the physicochemical and sensory qualities during storage (4°C).

Materials and Methods: Goat milk was obtained from local farmers in Lubuk Minturun, Padang, West Sumatra, Indonesia. The yogurt was divided into two factors. Factor A was supplemented with red ginger in various concentrations: A (0% – as control), B (1%), C (2%), and D (3%). On the other hand, Factor B was subjected to variations in storage time: A (1 day), B (15 days), and C (30 days). Each treatment was conducted in triplicate. Physicochemical properties (pH, titratable acidity [TTA], and proximate analysis), sensory characteristics, and antioxidant activity (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging capacity) were measured using the standard tests. The data were analyzed through analyzing multivariate (analysis of variance) supported by Duncan's multiple range test.

Results: The addition of red ginger juice increased the antioxidant activity, TTA, and water holding capacity (WHC) (p<0.05), while syneresis was significantly decreased; however, it had no effect on the total lactic acid bacteria. At the end of this research (day 30), the yogurt was still suitable for consumption, with the following composition: Antioxidant activity 48.39%, pH 4.3, TTA 1.716, water content 80%, protein 3%, fat 3%, syneresis 28%, WHC 63%, and total lactic acid bacteria 89×108 colony-forming units/mL. Furthermore, yogurt supplemented with red ginger changed its color into red blush.

Conclusion: Yogurt red ginger juice is recommended as a functional drink, as it contains probiotics P. acidilactici BK01 and antioxidants to support human health. The addition of up to 3% ginger juice and a storage period of 30 days are still favored by the panelists and meet the quality standard of yogurt. We have not conducted the study on active compounds so, further research could be conducted on the components of the active compounds found in red ginger yogurt.

Keywords: color, Pediococcus acidilactici BK01, probiotic, red ginger, yogurt.



Comparative staining of Rhinolophus spp. white blood cells in blood smears

Research (Published online: 29-03-2022)
28. Comparative staining of Rhinolophus spp. white blood cells in blood smears
Astghik Ghazaryan, Seda Adamyan, Tigran Hayrapetyan, George Papov, Lina Hakobyan, Liana Abroyan, Nane Bayramyan, Sona Hakobyan, Arpine Poghosyan, Hrag Torossian and Zaven Karalyan
Veterinary World, 15(3): 750-756

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: A drawback of studies on bat blood smears in the field is the lack of time for fixation because blood sampling using a non-lethal method often provides less time for fixation in smear preparations due to the small volume of blood collected. Usually, there is insufficient blood for another smear preparation, so it is necessary to use blood smears as rationally as possible, especially for rare bats. Many stains are used for staining peripheral blood smears, and they have advantages and disadvantages. This study aimed to examine commonly used stains for blood smears to select the best stain for staining peripheral blood smears in bats.

Materials and Methods: In this study, 48 blood smears of Rhinolophus spp. bats were examined using several blood staining methods. Four methods that showed the best results were used in further experiments: Romanowsky-Giemsa, Pappenheim, hematoxylin-eosin, and eosin methylene blue.

Results: Comparative analysis of different methods for staining bat blood smears revealed that the most convenient method for analyzing blood cells is Pappenheim method.

Conclusion: Staining blood smears using Pappenheim method yield the least number of unsuccessful blood smear stains and are quite effective for the morphological analysis of blood cells.

Keywords: blood smears, Rhinolophidae, staining, white blood cells.



Monday, 28 March 2022

Antimicrobial resistance: One Health approach

Review (Published online: 28-03-2022)
27. Antimicrobial resistance: One Health approach
Maria Elena Velazquez-Meza, Miguel Galarde-López, Berta Carrillo-Quiróz and Celia Mercedes Alpuche-Aranda
Veterinary World, 15(3): 743-749

ABSTRACT

In this research, a review of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is conducted as part of the One Health approach. A review of publications, which included "antimicrobial resistance" and "One Health," was conducted. Among the global health problems, AMR is the one that most clearly illustrates the One Health approach. AMR is a critical global problem affecting humans, the environment, and animals. This is related to each of these three components due to the irresponsible and excessive use of antimicrobials in various sectors (agriculture, livestock, and human medicine). Improper management of antimicrobials, inadequate control of infections, agricultural debris, pollutants in the environment, and migration of people and animals infected with resistant bacteria facilitate the spread of resistance. The study aimed to analyze the problem of AMR from a health perspective to analyze the different actors involved in One Health.

Keywords: antimicrobials, human, animals, plants.



Saturday, 26 March 2022

Comparison of two diagnostic methods through blood and urine sample analyses for the detection of ketosis in cattle

Research (Published online: 26-03-2022)
26. Comparison of two diagnostic methods through blood and urine sample analyses for the detection of ketosis in cattle
Karla Verónica Borja, Andrés Miguel Amador, Silvana Hipatia Santander Parra, Cristian Fernando Cárdenas and Luis Fabian Núñez
Veterinary World, 15(3): 737-742

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Several Ecuadorian farms use human test strips (cheaper than veterinary strips) to diagnose bovine ketosis; however, their reliability is unknown. This study aimed to determine the confidence level of human strips for the detection of ketosis in bovines by comparing two diagnostic methods for ketosis: one used in bovines (gold standard) to analyze blood samples and the other used in humans to analyze urine samples.

Materials and Methods: The study was conducted on an Ecuadorian farm using 50 animals, ten from each of five categories: heifers, 4 months pregnant (4MP), 15 days prepartum (15DPRE), 15 days postpartum (15DPOST), and 42 days postpartum (42DPOST). Blood samples were collected through coccygeal venipuncture and urine samples were collected during spontaneous urination. BHBCheck™ assay was used to measure β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) in the blood, whereas Combur10Test® was used to measure acetoacetate (AcAc) in urine for the determination of ketosis.

Results: BHB was detected in all animals. Based on a ketosis cutoff point of 0.8-1.2 mmol/L, 13 animals from the 15DPOST and 42DPOST categories had ketosis; AcAc was detected in the urine from nine animals originated from the two same categories. Metabolites, either BHB or AcAc, were not detected in heifers, 4MP, or 15DPRE individuals. Finally, the BHBCheck™ assay had better efficiency in detecting ketosis in animals (p<0.05) than the Combur10Test®.

Conclusion: Combur10Test® urine strips reached 92% reliability for the detection of ketosis in dairy cattle, compared to BHBCheck™ assays.

Keywords: acetoacetates, cattle, hydroxybutyrates, ketosis, postpartum period.



First study on phenotypic and morphological characteristics of Malaysian Kedah-Kelantan cattle (Bos indicus) and method of estimating their body weight

Research (Published online: 26-03-2022)
25. First study on phenotypic and morphological characteristics of Malaysian Kedah-Kelantan cattle (Bos indicus) and method of estimating their body weight
Mohammed Sirajul Islam, Nurhusien Yimer, Abd Wahid Haron, Faez Firdaus Jesse Abdullah, Mark Hiew Wen Han, Kamalludin Mamat-Hamidi and Hafizah Binti Mohamad Zawawi
Veterinary World, 15(3): 728-736

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Indigenous Kedah-Kelantan (KK) cattle are well adapted with distinguished reproductive capabilities; they account for more than 70% of the domestic beef production in Malaysia. The published literature on the phenotypic and morphometric characteristics of KK cattle are sparse and require further improvement. Therefore, this study was aimed to determine the phenotypic and morphometric characteristics of Malaysian KK cattle and method of estimating live body weight (BW).

Materials and Methods: Morphometric and phenotypic measurements were taken from 184 KK cattle (102 males and 82 females) sourced from three regions. Each animal's color pattern was recorded for their coat, muzzle, face, eyelashes, horns, tail switch, hoof, and legs through visual observation. Length measurements were taken of the body, face, ear, horn, tail, and rump. Several morphological features such as length, width, and girth were measured using a measuring tape, while wither height and hip height were assessed with a measuring scale.

Results: Brown is the predominant coat color in KK cattle (>82%). The overall means of head length, face width (FW), ear length, horn length, wither height, heart girth (HG), body length (BL), and rump length were 42.5±4.5, 17.3±2.9, 19.8±3.1, 9.9±4.4, 104.3±7.1, 127.4±13.2, 98.3±12.3, and 32.4±4.1 cm, respectively. Different morphometric parameters of length, width, and circumference were significantly (p<0.01) larger in males than females, except for tail length and TG. Correlation coefficient and multiple regression analysis clearly revealed that BL is the best parameter for estimating live BW in KK cattle.

Conclusion: Phenotypic and morphometric measurements in this study showed that Malaysian KK cattle generally possess a brown coat pattern with smaller body size, while BL revealed to be the best parameter to predict BW. The data generated from this study would be useful as baseline data for the identification and selection of KK cattle based on their phenotypical- and morphological-features for further improvement of this breed.

Keywords: characteristics, Kedah-Kelantan cattle, morphometric, phenotypic.