First isolation of verocytotoxin-producing Escherichia coli O157:H7 from sports animals in Southern Thailand

Research (Published online: 23-09-2022)

20. First isolation of verocytotoxin-producing Escherichia coli O157:H7 from sports animals in Southern Thailand

Jirarat Songsri, Wanida Mala, Sueptrakool Wisessombat, Kesinee Siritham, Sahida Cheha, Nattita Noisa, Tuempong Wongtawan, and Wiyada Kwanhian Klangbud

Veterinary World, 15(9): 2275-2284

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Escherichia coli O157:H7 is enterohemorrhagic E. coli, which produces verocytotoxin or Shiga toxin. It is a well-known cause of severe diseases in humans worldwide. Cattle and other ruminants are the main reservoirs of this organism. Sports animals, such as fighting bulls, riding horses, and fighting cocks, are economic animals in Southern Thailand. This study aimed to identify E. coli O157:H7 from the rectal swabs of these sports animals and determine the antimicrobial susceptibility patterns of isolated bacteria.

Materials and Methods: The rectal swabs were collected from 34 fighting bulls, 32 riding horses, and 31 fighting cocks. The swabs were cultured on MacConkey (MAC) Agar; the suspected colonies were then identified by VITEK® 2 GN card, and the antimicrobial susceptibility was tested by VITEK® 2 AST N194 in VITEK® 2 Compact automation. Escherichia coli O157:H7 was confirmed by culturing on sorbitol MAC agar, the ability to grow at 44°C, and the presence of H7 antigen. In addition, the eaeA (E. coli attaching and effacing), along with stx1 and stx2 (Shiga cytotoxins) genes, were determined using polymerase chain reaction. Finally, the cytotoxicity of Shiga toxin was confirmed using the Vero cytotoxicity test.

Results: Fifty-five suspected isolates (56.70%), which were collected from 19 fighting bulls (55.88%), 13 riding horses (40.63%), and 23 fighting cocks (71.13%), were identified as E. coli. However, one sample (Bull H9/1) from fighting bulls had an equal confidence level (50%) for E. coli and E. coli O157. The confirmation of this isolate demonstrated that it was sorbitol non-fermenter, could assimilate L-lactate, was unable to grow well at 44°C, and reacted with anti-serum to H7 antigen. In addition, it was positive with stx2 and eaeA genes, and the toxin affected Vero cells by a dose-dependent response. The antimicrobial susceptibility test revealed that five out of 55 (9.09%) E. coli isolates were resistant to antimicrobial agents. All five isolates (21.74%) were collected from fighting cocks. Escherichia coli Cock H4/3 was only one of the five isolates resistant to three antimicrobial agents (ciprofloxacin, moxifloxacin, and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole). Fortunately, it was not multidrug-resistant bacteria.

Conclusion: This is the first report on detection of E. coli O157:H7 in fighting bulls and antibiotic-resistant characteristic of E. coli in fighting cocks in Southern Thailand. This research is beneficial in preventing the dissemination of E. coli O157:H7 or antimicrobial agent-resistant E. coli in sports animals and humans.

Keywords: Escherichia coli O157:H7, fighting bulls, fighting cocks, riding horses, sport animal, verocytotoxin.

First molecular characterization of capsule expression and antibiotic susceptibility profile of Staphylococcus aureus isolates from bovine mastitis in Jordan

Research (Published online: 23-09-2022)

19. First molecular characterization of capsule expression and antibiotic susceptibility profile of Staphylococcus aureus isolates from bovine mastitis in Jordan

Mohammad Hamdi Gharaibeh and Luay F. Abu-Qatouseh

Veterinary World, 15(9): 2269-2274

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Bovine mastitis has long been considered the most important cause of economic losses in the dairy industry. Staphylococcus aureus is the most frequently isolated pathogen from bovine mastitis cases worldwide. Capsular polysaccharides (CPs) of serotype 5 (CP5) or serotype 8 (CP8) are the most prevalent capsule genotypes related to infections associated with S. aureus in humans. However, a variety of CPs has been reported in ruminants and other hosts. Information regarding the relationship between genotypic and phenotypic capsule variation and bovine mastitis in Jordan is scarce. Thus, we aimed to determine the prevalence of S. aureus capsule genotypes CP5 and CP8 in milk from bovine mastitis cases and the antimicrobial susceptibility profile of the recovered isolates in 27 dairy farms in Jordan.

Materials and Methods: Staphylococcus aureus strains were isolated from bovine mastitis cases in two districts of Jordan. All S. aureus isolates were initially identified using conventional biochemical and microbiological methods. Subsequently, confirmation of the identity of S. aureus was performed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) targeting nuc gene. Capsule polysaccharide typing was performed by PCR specific for CP5 and CP8. In addition, we assessed the antibiotic susceptibility profile of S. aureus isolates against commonly used antimicrobials by the disk diffusion method according to Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute guidelines.

Results: We collected 148 clinical isolates of S. aureus from bovine mastitis cases in the Zarqa (67.6%, n = 100) and Irbid (32.4%, n = 48) districts. Most isolates possessed capsule genotypes (91.3%), predominantly CP8 (88.6%). Only 8.7% of the isolates were nontypeable by PCR. In addition, we found statistically significant differences between the geographical region and the status of methicillin-resistant capsule genotypes (p < 0.05). The rates of resistance to β-lactam, macrolide, and fluoroquinolone antibiotics were very low, but resistance to tetracyclines was considerably high (22.3%). Significantly, mastitis isolates from Irbid showed a higher rate of resistance to ciprofloxacin (8.3% vs. 0%), while isolates from Zarqa showed a significantly higher rate of resistance to gentamicin (12.0% vs. 6.2%).

Conclusion: We established associations between capsule genotypes and antimicrobial resistance and the pathogenic behavior of S. aureus isolated from bovine mastitis cases. Further studies are necessary to fully elucidate the role and mechanisms of capsular expression in the epidemiological and molecular variability of S. aureus in bovine mastitis.

Keywords: antibiotic susceptibility, bovine mastitis, capsule genotypes, polymerase chain reaction, Staphylococcus aureus.

Clinical and diagnostic characteristics of the development of hepatocardial syndrome in black and white cows in the early lactation period

Research (Published online: 23-09-2022)

18. Clinical and diagnostic characteristics of the development of hepatocardial syndrome in black and white cows in the early lactation period

Yury Vatnikov, Andrey Rudenko, Larisa Gnezdilova, Elena Sotnikova, Varvara Byakhova, Elena Piven, Evgeny Kulikov, Aleksandr Petrov, Stanislav Drukovskiy, and Olesya Petrukhina

Veterinary World, 15(9): 2259-2268

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: It is known that during the early postpartum and lactation periods in dairy cows, metabolic disorders develop, that is, ketosis, which can lead to secondary damage to internal organs. Therefore, it is important to address the issues of changing the lactating cows' clinical, laboratory, and physiological parameters regarding the development of hepatocardial syndrome. This study aimed to provide clinical and diagnostic justification for developing hepatocardial syndrome in highly productive dairy cows.

Materials and Methods: The study was conducted on 20 black and white cows in the early postpartum period (7–10 days after birth), with a milk production level of >4500 kg of milk during the previous lactation period, a positive result in the formol colloid sedimentary test, the presence of deafness and splitting of heart sounds, changes in the size, or increased pain sensitivity of the percussion field of the liver. Clinically healthy dairy cows in the early postpartum period were used as controls (n = 24). Clinical, electrocardiographic, echocardiographic, and biochemical parameters were also evaluated.

Results: Dairy cows with hepatocardial syndrome developed arterial hypertension and sinus tachycardia, which led to a significant decrease in PQ and QT intervals at ECG. A significant increase in the diastolic size of the interventricular septum, systolic size of the free wall of the left ventricle, and diastolic and systolic sizes of the left ventricle and a significant decrease in the shortening fraction of the left ventricular myocardium were observed in the cows due to the development of hepatocardial syndrome. The affected cows demonstrated a significant increase in serum activity of gamma-glutamyl transferase, alanine aminotransferase, lactate dehydrogenase, creatine phosphokinase, alkaline phosphatase, troponin, malondialdehyde, diene conjugates, and ceruloplasmin and a decrease in glucose concentration. In addition, they demonstrated decreased activity of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione reductase.

Conclusion: Hepatocardial syndrome in dairy cows occurs due to ketosis, characterized by arterial hypertension, sinus tachycardia, a moderate decrease in myocardial contractility, oxidative stress, and cytolysis of cardiomyocytes and hepatocytes. Therefore, the control and prevention of the development of hepatocardial syndrome will make it possible to maintain the productive health and longevity of dairy cows.

Keywords: early lactation, heart dysfunction, hepatocardial syndrome, ketosis in cows, liver pathology, transitional period.

Pigs' management practices and exposure to Trichinella spp. in pigs and warthogs in the northern area of Senegal

Research (Published online: 20-09-2022)

17. Pigs' management practices and exposure to Trichinella spp. in pigs and warthogs in the northern area of Senegal

Kacou Martial N'da, Oubri Bassa Gbati, Laibané Dieudonné Dahourou, N'guessan Ezéchiel Schadrac Behou, Amadou Traore, and Joseph Kungu

Veterinary World, 15(9): 2253-2258

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Trichinellosis is a neglected and emerging foodborne zoonosis in Africa. Trichinella infection occurs through the consumption of raw or undercooked infected meat and meat products. This study aimed to assess pigs' management practices and determine the exposure of pigs and warthogs to Trichinella spp. in the northern area of Senegal.

Materials and Methods: Surveys and observations were carried out among 40 pig farmers to assess husbandry practices regarding Trichinella spp. life cycle. In addition, 201 pig meat juices and 83 warthog meat juices were extracted and tested for anti-Trichinella antibodies by indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

Results: Most (97%) of farms practiced a traditional farming system with free-ranging of pigs in 85% of farms. Farms had local pig breed without housing and supplementary feeding. Some farmers (27.5%) used slaughter waste to feed pigs and farmers were not aware that free-range farming is a source of infection to Trichinella infection. They were also unaware that some pig diseases could be transmitted to humans. The seroprevalence of Trichinella infection was 10.9% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 6.6–15.2%) in pigs and 10.8% (95% CI: 4.16–17.52%) in warthogs with significantly higher seroprevalence in male (22.2%: 95% CI: 6.6–37.8%) compared to female (9.2%; 95% CI: 4.9–13.5%) (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: The confirmation of exposure to Trichinella spp. in this area in pigs and warthogs shows a significant risk of transmission of this disease to humans if the farming conditions and the health surveillance system are not respected. However, control measures are needed to reduce any risk of transmission of Trichinella infection to humans.

Keywords: epidemiological studies, pig management, Senegal, Trichinella infection, warthog.

Hepatoprotective and renoprotective effects of silymarin against salinomycin-induced toxicity in adult rabbits

Research (Published online: 19-09-2022)

16. Hepatoprotective and renoprotective effects of silymarin against salinomycin-induced toxicity in adult rabbits

Ahmed H. Ghonaim, Mai G. Hopo, Ayman K. Ismail, Tarek R. AboElnaga, Rania Abdelrahman Elgawish, Rania H. Abdou, and Kawther A. Elhady

Veterinary World, 15(9): 2244-2252

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Salinomycin sodium, a licensed coccidiostat in rabbits, is used for fattening at a dose of 20–25 mg/kg. Salinomycin toxicity may arise from many risk factors (e.g., overdosage or use in non-target animal species). Silymarin extracted from milk thistle has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties. This study aimed to investigate the adverse impacts of oral administration of salinomycin for 28 consecutive days and how to reduce its risks and side effects by administering silymarin.

Materials and Methods: Eighty-four male New Zealand White bucks (1.750–2.000 kg) were randomly divided into seven groups (12 each). Group one was the control. Groups two and three were administered salinomycin orally (doses of 20 and 40 mg/kg ration). Group four was administered salinomycin (20 mg/kg ration) and silymarin (6.5 mg/kg body weight [BW]). Group five received salinomycin (40 mg/kg ration) and silymarin (13 mg/kg BW). Groups six and seven were administered silymarin at doses of 6.5 and 13 mg/kg BW. Rabbits were euthanized and slaughtered on day 29 using the Halal method. Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), creatinine, urea, total proteins, albumin, total cholesterol, and high- and low-density lipoprotein (HDL and LDL) were analyzed in serum. Glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, and malondialdehyde (MDA) were estimated in the liver. A histopathological investigation was performed on the liver and kidney.

Results: The MDA activity, AST, ALT, total protein, albumin, total cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL, urea, and creatinine values were significantly elevated in groups two and three. The GSH, catalase, SOD, and HDL were significantly lower in these groups than in the control group. There were moderate pathologic changes in the liver and kidney of the third group . However, the results of the fourth and fifth groups improved more than those of the second and third groups. The results of the sixth and seventh groups were nearly the same as those of the control group.

Conclusion: Salinomycin toxicity was caused by oxidative damage because of reactive oxygen species formation. Silymarin (6.5 or 13 mg/kg BW) tends to prevent and treat accidental toxicity. However, the high dose of silymarin (13 mg/kg BW) had more renal and hepatoprotective capacities.

Keywords: anticoccidial drugs, feed additives, liver enzymes, oxidative biomarkers, rabbits, salinomycin, silymarin.

In situ degradation of dairy cattle feedstuffs using reusable local nylon fabric bags

Research (Published online: 18-09-2022)

15. In situ degradation of dairy cattle feedstuffs using reusable local nylon fabric bags

Despal Despal, Ouldya Fasya Alifianty, Adinda Putri Pratama, Fransiska Febrianti, Dwierra Evvyernie, Indah Wijayanti, Norma Nuraina, Indri Agustiyani, and Annisa Rosmalia

Veterinary World, 15(9): 2234-2243

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Disposable imported nylon bags used in an in situ digestibility measurement restrict the effort of scientists to obtain more accurate information about ruminant feed quality due to their low affordability and environmentally unfriendly characteristics. This study aimed to find reusable local nylon fabrics to substitute imports.

Materials and Methods: Five local fabrics (B1 = Abutai, B2 = Taffeta, B3 = Organza, B4 = N57, and B5 = M100) were used to make nylon bags and compared with the imported bag (B6 = Ankom technology). The research consisted of three steps: (1) Observing the similarity of the local nylon bag's hole number to the imported bag. (2) Testing feed in situ degradation (F1 = Napier grass, F2 = Cornmeal, and F3 = Dairy cattle total mixed ration) using bags B1–B6. (3) The reusability of the bag was tested using different washing methods (under running water [R1], rinse [R2], and ultrasonic water bath [R3]).

Results: It was shown that the hole numbers of B1 (1223 hole numbers) and B2 (1245 hole numbers) were not significantly different from B6 (1248 hole numbers). It was shown with dry matter degradability measurement using the in situ method that there was no significant difference in feed solubility (a), potential degradability (b), and the effective degradation between local fabrics (B1–B5) and B6. According to the degradation rate (c), there were interactions between the feeds and fabrics. For F1, all local fabrics were similar to B6, while for F2, only B1 was different from B6. For F3, only B5 was different from B6. It was also shown by the organic matter degradability measurements that there was a similar trend. The exception was the solubility (a) component in F3, in which it was shown that B1 was also different from B6. It was shown in the reusable test that there was no difference in the weight of the bag before and after all washing methods. In contrast, the hole number increased due to the shrinking of the bag after drying in a 60°C oven.

Conclusion: According to this in situ study, local nylon bag B2 can substitute imported bags. A lower drying temperature is suggested to prevent shrinking and make the bag reusable.

Keywords: digestibility, feed quality, in situ, local fabrics, nylon bag.

Seroprevalence of human brucellosis in Morocco and associated risk factors

Research (Published online: 17-09-2022)

14. Seroprevalence of human brucellosis in Morocco and associated risk factors

Kaoutar Faddane, Houda Moumni, Imad Cherkaoui, Mohammed Lakranbi, Salsabil Hamdi, Sayeh Ezzikouri, Rachid Saile, and Mohamed El Azhari

Veterinary World, 15(9): 2224-2233

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim: Brucellosis is a prevalent infectious zoonotic disease that affects humans, livestock, and wildlife in many parts of the world. A cross-sectional study was conducted to estimate the seroprevalence and risk factors of brucellosis among farmers and patients attending six health centers in Sidi Kacem province (northwestern Morocco).

Materials and Methods: Blood samples (3-5 mL) were collected. Among 1283 participants, 351 were males and 932 were females and tested for Brucella antibodies using rose Bengal plate test and immunoglobulin (Ig)M/IgG enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for confirmation.

Results: The seroprevalence of brucellosis was 33.20% (426/1283) with a higher risk among males and rural residents. The univariable analysis revealed that contacting cattle, handling abortion products and manure, and consuming undercooked beef and goat meat were all risk factors for brucellosis. Furthermore, raw milk and milk derivatives were risk factors strongly linked to brucellosis.

Conclusion: Our findings indicate a high prevalence of brucellosis associated with the consumption of raw meat, raw dairy products, milk, and close contact with infected animals. However, there are some limitations to this study, such as we did not use the ELISA test on all sera collected and individuals under the age of 18 were not included in the study. Moreover, building a database on the occurrence of brucellosis and associated epidemiological factors is critical for providing informed advice to policymakers to improve control strategies against this disease in Morocco.

Keywords: human brucellosis, risk factors, seroprevalence, Sidi Kacem (Morocco).