Identification and molecular characterization of simian endogenous retrovirus in Macaca fascicularis and Macaca nemestrina from captive breeding facilities in Bogor, Indonesia

Research (Published online: 27-07-2022)

30. Identification and molecular characterization of simian endogenous retrovirus in Macaca fascicularis and Macaca nemestrina from captive breeding facilities in Bogor, Indonesia

Fitri Luthfianti Nur Annisaa, Uus Saepuloh, Diah Iskandriati and Joko Pamungkas

Veterinary World, 15(7): 1827-1834

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Endogenous retroviruses (ERVs) found in all vertebrates, including non-human primates (NHPs), are known to be genetically inherited. Thus, recent studies have explored ERVs for human immunodeficiency virus vaccine development using human ERV (HERV) due to the hypervariability of exogenous retroviruses which cause conventional vaccines to be ineffective. HERV was also found to be able to induce an immune response in cancer patients. This study aimed to identify and molecularly characterize ERVs from Indonesian NHPs: Macaca fascicularis and Macaca nemestrina. Then, we described the phylogenetic relationship of these isolates with those of the simian ERVs (SERVs) characterized in other species and countries.

Materials and Methods: First, 5 mL of whole blood samples was taken from 131 long-tailed macaques and 58 pig-tailed macaques in captive breeding facilities at Bogor, Indonesia, for DNA extraction. Next, the DNA samples were screened using the SYBR Green real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique with specific primers for env (simian retroviruses [SRV]1-5 7585U19 and SRV1-5 7695L21). Positive SERV results were those with cycle threshold (CT) values < 24 (CT < 24) and melting temperature (TM) ranges of 80°C–82°C. Then, whole-genome nucleotide sequences from two pig-tailed macaques samples detected as positive SERV were generated using a nucleic acid sequencing technique which utilized the walking primer method. Subsequently, the sequences were analyzed using bioinformatics programs, such as 4Peaks, Clustal Omega, and BLAST (NCBI). Subsequently, a phylogenetic tree was constructed using the neighbor-joining method in MEGA X.

Results: SYBR Green real-time PCR amplification results indicated that SERV (Mn B1 and Mn B140910)-positive samples had CT values of 22.37–22.54 and TM of 82°C. Moreover, whole-genome sequences resulted in 7991 nucleotide sequences, comprising long terminal repeat, gag, pro, pol, and env genes identical between the sequenced samples. Furthermore, the phylogenetic tree results indicated that both samples from M. nemestrina had 99%–100% nucleotide identities to the Mn 92227 sample identified at the National Primate Center University of Washington (NaPRC UW) which was imported from Indonesia in 1998, confirmed as a novel SERV strain. The phylogenetic tree results also indicated that although SERV whole-genome nucleotide and env amino acid sequences were clustered with SRV-2 (identity values of 82% and 79%, respectively), they had a 99%–100% nucleotide identity to Mn 92227. Meanwhile, the gag, pro, and pol amino acids were clustered with SRV-1, SRV-3, SRV-4, SRV-5, SRV-8, and SERV/1997, with 82% and 88% identity values.

Conclusion: Based on the SYBR Green real-time PCR profiles generated, similarities with Mn 92227 were observed. Subsequent phylogenetic analysis confirmed that both samples (Mn B1 and Mn B140919) from pig-tailed macaques in the country of origin were novel SERV strains at NaPRC UW. Therefore, it could be used in biomedical research on ERVs.

Keywords: Macaca fascicularis, Macaca nemestrina, retrovirus, simian endogenous retroviruses.

The effect of spices Coriandrum sativum L., Trigonella foenum-graecum L., Pimpinella anisum L., and their combinations on growth performance, carcass trait, and hematobiochemical parameters in broiler chicken

Research (Published online: 26-07-2022)

29. The effect of spices Coriandrum sativum L., Trigonella foenum-graecum L., Pimpinella anisum L., and their combinations on growth performance, carcass trait, and hematobiochemical parameters in broiler chicken

Samira Meradi, Ahmed Messaï and Miloud Aouachria

Veterinary World, 15(7): 1821-1826

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: The incorporation of herbs and species has been shown to enrich the food with antioxidants and bioactive antimicrobial compounds, thereby preserving the safety and productivity of broiler chicken production. This study aimed to determine the effects of three phytogenic feed additives (PHT) on certain zootechnical and hematobiochemical parameters in broiler chickens. Coriandrum sativum L. (coriander), Pimpinella anisum L. (green anise), and Trigonella foenum-graecum L. (fenugreek) were used to formulate the PHT.

Materials and Methods: A total of 360 1-day-old Cobb broilers for 42 days were randomly assigned to four dietary treatment groups: A control group (CTLG) and three groups fed a basal diet supplemented with 3% of coriander (PHT1G), 3% of a combination 50% coriander-50% fenugreek (PHT2G), and finally, 3% of a combination 50% coriander-50% green anise (PHT3G), respectively, and each experimental group included three repetitions of 30 birds. Zootechnical parameters, carcass productivity, and hematobiochemical properties were measured.

Results: The birds in the PHT3G had the greatest body weight and organ weight (p < 0.05). However, the weight of abdominal fat remained unchanged. The same group of broilers had a significantly (p < 0.05) higher lymphocyte level of 120.103/μL, followed by the PHT2G, which had 80.103/μL. The levels of monocytes in the PHT2G and PHT3G were 66.103/μL and 60.103/μL, respectively. Regarding granulocytes, we observed 200.103/μL in the PHT2 group and 102.103/μL in the PHT3G. There was a statistically significant difference (p < 0.05) between the uric acid levels of the PHT1G, PHT2G, and PHT3G, with 50.4 mg/L, 59.84 mg/L, and 47.29 mg/L, respectively. All experimental groups had significantly lower uric acid concentrations than the control group (84.36 mg/L).

Conclusion: The use of phytogenic feed additives may positively affect both weight gain and hematobiochemical parameters in broiler chicken, particularly the levels of various white blood cell subtypes and the uric acid rate.

Keywords: broilers, blood parameters, natural feed additive, performances, spices seed.

Estimation of the probability risks of African swine fever outbreaks using the maximum entropy method in North Sumatra Province, Indonesia

Research (Published online: 26-07-2022)

28. Estimation of the probability risks of African swine fever outbreaks using the maximum entropy method in North Sumatra Province, Indonesia

Roza Azizah Primatika, Etih Sudarnika, Bambang Sumiarto and Chaerul Basri

Veterinary World, 15(7): 1814-1820

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: African swine fever (ASF) is an infectious disease and a major viral pig disease that threatens pork production in several locations globally. The mortality rate of ASF in domestic pigs is very high, causing a decrease in pig populations and significant economic losses for farmers. Environmental or ecological risk factors are the most important associated with the spread of the ASF virus. Environmental (or ecological) niche models are commonly used to estimate the probability of an event using the maximum entropy (Maxent) method. This study aimed to estimate the probability risk of future ASF outbreaks in North Sumatra, Indonesia.

Materials and Methods: Secondary data from the National Animal Health System Database (iSIKHNAS), including data on the ASF outbreaks of 2019–2020 in North Sumatra, Indonesia, were used in this study. The first analysis performed involved the identification of environmental risk factors using multiple regression analysis. The second analysis performed was the estimation of probability risk for future ASF outbreaks in North Sumatra, Indonesia, using the Maxent method. Data processing was performed using Microsoft Excel, ArcGIS version 10.5 software (ESRI, California, United States), Maxent version 3.4.4 software, and Rstudio (http://www.r-project.org/).

Results: The Maxent method was found to be highly accurate with a statistically significant area under the curve value of 0.860. The greatest contributing environmental factor identified by the model was the harbor, which contributed 57%. The range of high probability risk of future ASF outbreaks was found to be 0.723–0.84.

Conclusion: The estimation of the highest probability risk of future ASF outbreaks in North Sumatra, Indonesia, was 0.723–0.84. The most contributing environmental factor identified using the Maxent method was harbors, at 57%. This methodology can be used to carry out subsequent ASF analyses and contribute to developing prevention and control strategies in this area.

Keywords: African swine fever, environmental niche models, maximum entropy, probability risk.

First report on clinical aspects, blood profiles, bacterial isolation, antimicrobial susceptibility, and histopathology in canine pyometra in Thailand

Research (Published online: 26-07-2022)

27. First report on clinical aspects, blood profiles, bacterial isolation, antimicrobial susceptibility, and histopathology in canine pyometra in Thailand

Niyada Lansubsakul, Kaitkanoke Sirinarumitr, Theerapol Sirinarumitr, Kanjana Imsilp, Podjana Wattananit, Sasi Supanrung and Chunsumon Limmanont

Veterinary World, 15(7): 1804-1813

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Canine pyometra, either the closed (closed pyometra [CP]) or open (open pyometra [OP]) cervix type, is a frequent uterine disease in intact old age bitches. Therefore, early diagnosis and appropriate medical and surgical treatments are crucial to avoid the life-threatening condition in these bitches. This study aimed to investigate clinical alterations, blood parameters, causative bacteria, antimicrobial susceptibility, and uterine histopathology obtained during aseptic surgical treatment on bitches with pyometra.

Materials and Methods: Sixty bitches of various breeds and ages with presumptive pyometra diagnoses were included in the study. The diagnoses were based on history, clinical examination, blood parameters, radiography, and ultrasonography. All pyometra bitches were ovariohysterectomized as an emergency surgical treatment. In addition, uterine content and tissues were submitted for bacterial isolation, antimicrobial susceptibility, and uterine histopathological analysis.

Results: Except for abdominal CP distention, no specific clinical signs were linked to the pyometra type. The mean values of total white blood cell count (WBC) and plasma protein were predominantly raised in pyometra bitches regarding hematological parameters. Leukocytosis was found in both types; however, the WBC in CP was markedly higher than in OP. The mean value of blood urea nitrogen increased in the CP group. Klebsiella pneumoniae and Escherichia coli were the most frequent causative bacteria isolated in CP and OP, respectively. All isolated bacteria were 100% susceptible to imipenem, meropenem, and carbapenem. Marbofloxacin was the second most effective drug against isolated bacteria from both groups. Uncomplicated cystic endometrial hyperplasia (CEH) was not presented in the CP group. CEH and chronic endometritis (type IV), the most severe uterine histopathological changes, were discovered in the CP and OP.

Conclusion: The CP and OP groups presented leukocytosis, increased plasma protein, and CEH and chronic endometritis. Depression, abdominal distention, and enlarged uterine size were the major characteristics of the CP group. Furthermore, abdominal distension is presented in other abnormalities in clinical practices, providing a differential diagnosis. Drugs in the carbapenem group were the most effective against isolated bacteria; however, they are not routinely used due to bacterial resistance concerns. Thus, marbofloxacin was recommended as an alternative medical treatment because it is convenient to manage by both oral and injection routes.

Keywords: antimicrobial susceptibility, bacteria, canine, histopathology, pyometra.

A preliminary metagenomics study of bacteria present in the dirt of Swiftlet farmhouses based on nitrite levels in edible bird's nest on Sumatera Island, Indonesia

Research (Published online: 26-07-2022)

26. A preliminary metagenomics study of bacteria present in the dirt of Swiftlet farmhouses based on nitrite levels in edible bird's nest on Sumatera Island, Indonesia

Platika Widiyani, Mirnawati B. Sudarwanto, Hadri Latif, Denny Widaya Lukman, Daniel Thong and Puji Rahayu

Veterinary World, 15(7): 1798-1803

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Since the past decade, metagenomics has been used to evaluate sequenced deoxyribonucleic acid of all microorganisms in several types of research. Nitrite contamination originates from the natural environment in Swiftlet farmhouses (SFHs) and can influence nitrite levels in edible bird's nest (EBN). It is strongly speculated that the conversion process into nitrite is influenced by the bacteria present in SFHs. Nitrite can cause adverse effects on human health. The previous research has focused on the characteristics of bacteria that may influence the nitrite conversion process in SFHs. This study aimed to a metagenomics analysis of bacteria present in the dirt of SFHs and evaluated nitrite levels in EBN on Sumatera Island.

Materials and Methods: In total, 18 SFHs on Sumatera Island were selected, and EBN and dirt samples were collected from each SFH, resulting in 18 EBN and 18 dirt SFH samples. Raw uncleaned white EBN and dirt from three areas of SFH were collected. The samples were analyzed for nitrite levels using a spectrophotometer, and the metagenomics sequencing of SFH dirt samples was performed using the MinIon nanopore method. The sequenced data were analyzed using the EPI2ME software.

Results: Of the 18 raw uncleaned white EBN samples, 9 (50%) had <30 ppm nitrite levels. The top five bacterial genera in SFH dirt samples in Group A (nitrite levels >30 ppm) were Aeromonas, Escherichia, Acinetobacter, Arcobacter, and Acetoanaerobium. Those in Group B (nitrite levels <30 ppm) were Aeromonas, Pseudomonas, Shewanella, Escherichia, and Acinetobacter. There were 12 genera of nitrifying bacteria in Group A and 8 in Group B. The total cumulative read of nitrifying bacteria in Groups A and B were 87 and 38 reads, respectively.

Conclusion: This is the first study to show that characteristic bacteria present in the dirt of SFHs might significantly influence the conversion from nitrogen to nitrite. Approximately 50% of raw uncleaned EBN samples had <30 ppm nitrite levels. Aeromonas was the most dominant bacterial genus found in Groups A and B. The variations in genus and cumulative reads nitrifying bacteria in group A were greater than those in Group B. This study provides information on the characteristics of bacteria that may influence the nitrite conversion process in SFHs. Metagenomics data were obtained from the reading using the software EPI2ME. Further research is needed on the bacterial target species that can convert nitrite in SFHs.

Keywords: analysis, edible bird's nest, metagenomic, nitrite, Swiftlet.

Use of proposed systolic and myocardial performance indices derived from simultaneous ECG and PCG recordings to assess cardiac function in healthy Beagles

Research (Published online: 25-07-2022)

25. Use of proposed systolic and myocardial performance indices derived from simultaneous ECG and PCG recordings to assess cardiac function in healthy Beagles

Karlo Romano B. Gicana, Chirutchaya Pinidmontree, Kitchanan Kosalathip, Siraphop Sirirut, Siripen Komolvanich, Sariya Asawakarn, Walasinee Sakcamduang, Phornphop Naiyanetr and Kittipong Tachampa

Veterinary World, 15(7): 1785-1797

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Cardiac time intervals (CTIs) can provide important information on the electrical and mechanical properties of the heart. We hypothesized that cardiac function can be described using the combined power of electrocardiography (ECG) and phonocardiography (PCG) signals. This study aimed to (1) validate a novel custom device in measuring CTI parameters; (2) compare CTI parameters with a commercially available device and standard transthoracic echocardiography (STE); and (3) compare calculated systolic performance index (SPI) and myocardial performance index (MPI) with Tei index from the STE.

Materials and Methods: This study determined CTIs based on simultaneous ECG and PCG recordings in 14 healthy Beagle dogs using the custom-built device. These CTI parameters were compared with a commercially available device (Eko DUO ECG + Digital Stethoscope; Eko DUO) and the STE. Agreement of CTI parameters between the custom device and the commercially available device or STE was evaluated. Calculated SPI and MPI based on Wigger's diagram were proposed, compared with SPI and Tei index, and correlated with STE parameters.

Results: We found that the ECG and PCG parameters measured from the custom-built device did not differ from the commercially available device and the STE. By combining ECG and PCG signals, we established CTI parameters in healthy dogs including indices for systolic function (SPI: QS1/S1S2) and global cardiac function {F1 ([QS1+S2]/S1S2), F2 ([RS1+S2]/S1S2), and F3 (RS1 + [QS2-QT]/S1S2)}. The SPI, F2, and F3 were comparable with echocardiographic parameters describing systolic (Pre-ejection period/left ventricular ejection time [LVET]) and Tei index ([MCOdur-LVET]/ LVET), respectively. Only SPI and F3 were correlated significantly with MCOdur and heart rate, respectively.

Conclusion: We have validated the use of the custom-built device to describe CTIs that are comparable to the commercially available device and STE in healthy Beagles. The proposed SPI and MPI derived from CTI parameters can be useful in clinical practice to describe the cardiac function, especially in areas where access to STE is constrained.

Keywords: cardiac time intervals, dogs, electrocardiography, healthy, phonocardiography.

Serological survey of Toxoplasma gondii infection in cats in Khon Kaen, Northeast Thailand

Research (Published online: 25-07-2022)

24. Serological survey of Toxoplasma gondii infection in cats in Khon Kaen, Northeast Thailand

Natthika Lakhamsen, Chalipa Chaisongkhram, Yanika Pattarasuplerk, Arayaporn Macotpet, Suvaluk Seesupa, Nitiwadee Lertitthikul, Pattaraanong Bupata and Panisara Kunkitti

Veterinary World, 15(7): 1779-1784

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Toxoplasmosis is a zoonosis caused by Toxoplasma gondii. Cats are known to be the definitive hosts that can excrete these environmentally resistant oocysts. Other mammals, avians, and even humans can serve as the intermediate host. T. gondii infection is often asymptomatic in healthy individuals; however, it could result in serious health problems in immunocompromised and pregnant individuals. This study investigated the occurrence of T. gondii infection in cats in Khao Suan Kwang and Mueang Khon Kaen.

Materials and Methods: In total, 100 serum samples from cats, that is, 62 owned cats (31 males and 31 females) and 38 adopted stray cats (21 males and 17 females), were examined for antibodies against T. gondii through rapid immunochromatographic tests (ICT). Owners were asked to sign a consent form and answer the questionnaires before sample collection. Demographic information about the cats and their owners was also recorded.

Results: The overall seroprevalence of cats positive for T. gondii antibodies was found to be 5%. Notably, the Toxoplasma antibody prevalence was significantly higher in the adopted stray cats (10.53% [4/38]) that roamed the zoo than in the owned cats (1.61% [1/62]) (p > 0.05). No significant difference was observed between male (8.33%) and female (1.92%) cats. The cat owners' questionnaire revealed that more than half had never heard of toxoplasmosis before (67.7%), whereas 30.6% knew nothing about the disease transmission routes.

Conclusion: This study presented a low seroprevalence of antibodies to T. gondii in owned cats from the Mueang Khon Kaen District, whereas high seroprevalence was detected in the adopted stray cats from Khao Suan Kwang. Adopted stray cats can have a higher potential for T. gondii infection; thus, they could be a source of toxoplasmosis transmission to humans. Therefore, it is essential to control the number of stray cats, and a screening test for antitoxoplasmosis could be recommended before adoption. Although the total seroprevalence was noted to be low, the zoonotic disease was present. Therefore, raising the community's awareness and knowledge might reduce the disease transmission from animals to humans.

Keywords: adopted stray cat, feline, Khon Kaen, toxoplasmosis, zoonoses.