Seroprevalence of selected viral pathogens in pigs reared in organized farms of Meghalaya from 2014 to 16

Research (Published online: 20-01-2018)

9. Seroprevalence of selected viral pathogens in pigs reared in organized farms of Meghalaya from 2014 to 16

Priyanka Mukherjee, Amarjit Karam, Uttam Singh, Amit Kumar Chakraborty, Surmani Huidrom, Arnab Sen and Indu Sharma

Veterinary World, 11(1): 42-47

ABSTRACT

Aim: A pilot study was carried out to find out the seroprevalence of Porcine circovirus 2 (PCV2), classical swine fever virus (CSFV), and Porcine respiratory and reproductive syndrome virus (PRRS) in pig population of Meghalaya.

Materials and Methods: Serum samples were collected from piglets of 40-45 days age group, growers, and sows reared under organized and unorganized management in 11 districts of Meghalaya situated in the Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo hills divisions in the time period of 2014-2016 from apparently healthy and suspected pigs. Seroprevalence of PCV2, CSFV, and PRRS specific antibodies was detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Results: A total of 1899 serum samples were collected and screened using antibody ELISA kits specific for PCV2, CSFV, and PRRS. The highest antibody prevalence during the selected time periods was detected for PCV2 (80.8% in 2014, 79.1% in 2015, and 96.2% in 2016) followed by CSFV (76.4% in 2014, 66.09% in 2015, and 25.5% in 2016) and PRRS (2.8% in 2014, 2.7% in 2015, and 3.62% in 2016). The result indicates high seroprevalence for PCV2, which can be considered as an inducement factor due to the immunosuppressive nature of the virus, for animals being susceptible to other pathogens in farms where airborne transmission of PCV2 and postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome among animals reared in close pens can be a major possibility.

Conclusion: The data from this study indicates ubiquitous prevalence of PCV2 antibodies in the farm animals along with the endemic presence of swine fever and emergence of PRRS in an organized farm. There are few reports regarding PCV2 infections/outbreaks in pigs associated with reproductive failure from northern and southern part of India, but till date, there are no reports regarding concomitant infection of CSFV and PCV2 from India. Considerable high seropositivity of PCV2 indicates the need for high impact hygiene practice in farms, routine seromonitoring and implementation of the vaccination program. To the author's best knowledge, this is the first documented report on the seroprevalence of PCV2, CSFV, and PRRS from pig population of Meghalaya.

Keywords: antibody, classical swine fever virus, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, Meghalaya, Porcine circovirus, Porcine respiratory and reproductive syndrome virus, seroprevalence, virus.

Milk amyloid A as a biomarker for diagnosis of subclinical mastitis in cattle

Research (Published online: 19-01-2018)

8. Milk amyloid A as a biomarker for diagnosis of subclinical mastitis in cattle

Hany Ahmed Hussein, Khaled Abd El-Hamid Abd El-Razik, Alaa Mohamed Gomaa, Mohamed Karam Elbayoumy, Khaled A. Abdelrahman and H. I. Hosein

Veterinary World, 11(1): 34-41

Background and Aim: Mastitis is one of the most vital noteworthy monetary risks to dairy ranchers and affects reproductive performance in dairy cattle. However, subclinical mastitis (SCM) negatively affects milk quality and quantity and associated with economic losses as clinical mastitis. It is recognizable only by additional testing. Somatic cell count (SCC) is currently used worldwide for the screening of intramammary infection (IMI) infections. However, somatic cells (SC) are affected by numerous factors and not always correlate with infection of the udder. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the milk amyloid A (MAA) in the milk of normal and SCM cows and compare the sensitivity of both MAA secretion and SCC in response to mammary gland bacterial infection.

Materials and Methods: A total of 272 quarter milk samples collected from 68 Friesian cows after clinical examination for detection of clinical mastitis were employed in this study. All quarter milk samples (272) were subjected to bacteriological examination, while SCs were assessed in samples (220). Following SCC estimation and bacteriological examination, the apparently normal quarter milk samples were categorized into 7 groups and MAA concentration was estimated in normal and subclinical mastitic milk samples.

Results: Prevalence of clinical mastitis was 19.12 % (52 quarters), while 80.88 % (220 quarters) were clinically healthy with normal milk secretion. Of those 220 clinically healthy quarter milk samples, 72 (32.73%) showed SCM as detected by SCC (SCC ≥500,000 cells/ml). The most prevalent bacteria detected in this study were streptococci (48.53%), Staphylococcus aureus (29.41%), Escherichia coli (36.76%), and coagulase-negative staphylococci (11.76%). Results of MAA estimation revealed a strong correlation between MAA secretion level and SCC in agreement with the bacteriological examination. Interestingly, there was a prompt increase in MAA concentration in Group III (G III) (group of milk samples had SCC ≤200,000 cells/ml and bacteriologically positive) than Group I (G I) (group of milk samples with SCC ≤500,000 cells/ml and bacteriologically negative), as MAA concentration in G III was about 4 times its concentration in G I.

Conclusion: Our study provides a strong evidence for the significance of MAA measurement in milk during SCM, and MAA is more sensitive to IMI than SCC. This can be attributed to rapid and sensitive marker of inflammation. The advantage of MAA over other diagnostic markers of SCM is attributed the minute or even undetectable level of MAA in the milk of healthy animals, it is not influenced by factors other than mastitis, and could be estimated in preserved samples. Therefore, we recommend that estimation of MAA concentration in milk is a more useful diagnostic tool than SCC to detect SCM and to monitor the udder health in dairy cattle.

Keywords: biomarkers, milk amyloid A, somatic cell count, subclinical mastitis.

Detection of Schmallenberg virus antibody in equine population of Northern and Northeast of Iran

Research (Published online: 18-01-2018)

7. Detection of Schmallenberg virus antibody in equine population of Northern and Northeast of Iran

M. Rasekh, A. Sarani and S. H. Hashemi

Veterinary World, 11(1): 30-33

ABSTRACT

Aim: Schmallenberg virus (SBV) is a newly emerging virus in Simbu group that 1st time is reported in 2011 in Germany and now spread to Europe. The clinical signs of infection to this virus are fever, loss of appetite, reduced milk yield and in some cases, diarrhea and in pregnant animals congenital malformations in calves, lambs, and kid goats.

Materials and Methods: In this study for a serologic survey of SBV, blood samples from 200 horse in different rural areas of the northern and northeast of Iran with the high equine population collected and were analyzed using an indirect ELISA test.

Results: Based on our results 5% (n=10) of total 200 samples were positive for SBV antibody and 2% (n=4) was doubtful and 93% (n=186) was negative. There were no significant differences between age and sex and breed properties (p>0.05).

Conclusion: This study demonstrated the presence of antibodies against the SBV on horse populations in Iran. The high population and activity of Culicoides biting midges and their proper living conditions, especially the areas of temperate and humid environmental conditions, are the possible causes of arboviruses related diseases seen in this country.

Keywords: horse, Iran, new emerging disease, Schmallenberg virus.

Anti-inflammatory properties of a wound dressing combination of zinc oxide and turmeric extract

Research (Published online: 17-01-2018)

6. Anti-inflammatory properties of a wound dressing combination of zinc oxide and turmeric extract

Asti Meizarini, Aryati, Wibi Riawan and Astari Puteri

Veterinary World, 11(1): 25-29

ABSTRACT

Aim: The aim of this study was to determine the effect of a wound dressing consisting of a zinc oxide with turmeric extract combination as an anti-inflammatory on the healing process through the expression of MAC387 and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2).

Materials and Methods: Forty Wistar rats were divided into four control and four treatment groups (n=5). On day 1, a 6 mmx6 mm square of skin in the area of the vertebralis thoracis was excised from all subjects. The wound was then dressed with a combination of zinc oxide and turmeric extract for the treatment groups, while the control groups were left undressed. Both the control and treatment groups were then sequentially sacrificed on days 3, 5, 7, and 14 to obtain subepithelial excision samples. These samples subsequently underwent immunohistochemistry examination through the expression of MAC387 and COX-2 to ascertain the anti-inflammatory reaction to the wound healing process.

Results: The highest expression of MAC387 was found in the treatment group to which a dressing of zinc oxide with turmeric extract had been applied on the day 5 before slowly reducing on days 7 and 14. MAC387 peaked in the undressed control group on day 14. The COX-2 expression results in control groups showed their higher expression on day 3, increased up to day 5, began to decline on day 7 before, and finally, decreasing on day 14. This result was different to those treatment groups which presented a high COX-2 expression on day 3, before gradually decreasing between days 5 and 7 and reaching its lowest point on day 14.

Conclusion: A wound dressing consisting of a combination of zinc oxide and turmeric extract has been proven effective as an anti-inflammatory in the healing process.

Keywords: cyclooxygenase-2, MAC387, turmeric, wound dressing, zinc oxide.

A cross-sectional study on prevalence of bovine tuberculosis in Indian and crossbred cattle in Gangetic delta region of West Bengal, India

Research (Published online: 16-01-2018)

1. A cross-sectional study on prevalence of bovine tuberculosis in Indian and crossbred cattle in Gangetic delta region of West Bengal, India - Ratan Das, Premanshu Dandapat, Arijit Chakrabarty, Pramod Kumar Nanda, Samiran Bandyopadhyay and Subhasish Bandyopadhyay

International Journal of One Health, 4: 1-7

  doi: 10.14202/IJOH.2018.1-7

Abstract

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Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the incidence of bovine tuberculosis (BTB), an old chronic disease having zoonotic potential, covering four districts in Gangetic delta region of West Bengal, India, and to find the prevalence in organized as well as backyard herds and variation in relation to their age, sex, and breeds.

Methods: The incidence of BTB in exotic and indigenous breeds of cattle (n=173) of various age groups was investigated employing tuberculin (single intradermal tuberculin and comparative cervical tuberculin) tests and gamma interferon assay. Further, milk samples (n=96) from milching animals and antemortem (n=519) samples (nasal swab, buccal swab, and aspirates from pre-scapular lymph nodes) were also screened employing bacteriological and molecular techniques.

Results: In total, 36 (25.4%) animals from organized and one (3.2%) from backyard farming sector were found positive to BTB. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) of milk samples based on 16S rRNA amplified the 1030 bp band in four samples indicating them belonging to genus Mycobacterium. Species-specific primers used to differentiate between Mycobacterium bovis and M. tuberculosis confirmed the presence of M. bovis. Prevalence of BTB in exotic crossbred animals (34.6%) was significantly higher (p<0.001) compared to indigenous cattle (10.5%). Further, gender-wise analysis of data with respect to BTB revealed higher positivity (p<0.05) among cows/heifers (25.8%) compared to bulls/bullocks (7.3%). Although BTB-positive cattle were detected in all the age groups, no statistical difference (p=0.779) was found among them.

Conclusion: The findings indicate a higher prevalence of BTB in exotic crossbred animals in Gangetic delta and variation in breed susceptibility, thereby suggesting an urgent review of the present policy on adopting national crossbreeding program and implementation of “One Health” approach.

Keywords: bovine tuberculosis, cattle, India, prevalence, West Bengal.

Prevalence and bacterial etiology of subclinical mastitis in goats reared in organized farms

Research (Published online: 13-01-2018)

5. Prevalence and bacterial etiology of subclinical mastitis in goats reared in organized farms

A. K. Mishra, Nitika Sharma, D. D. Singh, K. Gururaj, Abhishek, Vijay Kumar and D. K. Sharma

Veterinary World, 11(1): 20-24

ABSTRACT

Aim: Assessment of the status of subclinical mastitis (SCM) in Jamunapari and Barbari goats in Indian organized farms, the involvement of bacterial pathogens and their sensitivity to antibiotics.

Materials and Methods: A total of 181 composite milk samples were aseptically collected from the apparently healthy Barbari (n=95) and Jamunapari (n=86) goats. The California mastitis test (CMT) and somatic cell count (SCC) were used to diagnose SCM. The milk samples with CMT scores of 0 and +1 were considered as negative, while the samples with the score of +2 or +3 were taken as positive, and further, the positive samples were used for the bacteriological examination. An antibiotic sensitivity test was performed by disk diffusion method using seven commercially available antibiotic discs.

Results: All the samples having CMT score of +2 or +3 demonstrated SCC more than 1 million. Overall, the prevalence of SCM in the goats was assessed as 19.89% (36/181). The prevalence of SCM in Barbari and Jamunapari goats was found as 24.21% (23/95) and 15.12% (13/86), respectively. Out of 11 isolates of Staphylococci, 9 isolates were identified as coagulase-negative Staphylococci (CNS), whereas 2 isolates were found as Staphylococcus aureus. The identified bacterial isolates (n=30) did not show antibiotic resistance.

Conclusion: The current investigation showed the considerable prevalence of SCM among Jamunapari and Barbari goats which may have a negative impact on quantity and quality of the milk. CNS was found as the most prevalent cause of SCM in the goats. Negligible antibiotic resistance was found among the identified udder pathogens.

Keywords: California mastitis test, coagulase-negative Staphylococci, goat, somatic cell count, subclinical mastitis.

Detection of Ehrlichia, Anaplasma, and Babesia spp. in dogs of Cebu, Philippines

Research (Published online: 12-01-2018)

4. Detection of Ehrlichia, Anaplasma, and Babesia spp. in dogs of Cebu, Philippines

Rochelle Haidee D. Ybanez, Adrian P. Ybanez, Lyra Lee A. Arnado, Laila Monika P. Belarmino, Knowlie Gay F. Malingin, Paul Bien C. Cabilete, Ziggy Ryan O. Amores, Maxfrancis G. Talle, Mingming Liu and Xuenan Xuan

Veterinary World, 11(1): 14-19

ABSTRACT

Background: Ehrlichia, Anaplasma, and Babesia spp. are canine pathogens transmitted by the Rhipicephalus sanguineus tick which can cause varied clinical signs. These pathogens have been investigated in the Philippines, but coinfection has not been reported yet.

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the presence of Ehrlichia/Anaplasma and Babesia spp. in Philippine dogs.

Materials and Methods: A total of 100 dogs from seven different veterinary establishments in Cebu, Philippines, were examined for Ehrlichia/Anaplasma and Babesia spp. infection using peripheral blood smear examination and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Inclusion criteria included a history or presence of tick infestation, anemia, and/or thrombocytopenia. Clinical signs were recorded. Statistical analyses were performed between PCR positivity and clinical signs and hematological results.

Results: A total of 10 and 18 dogs were found to be positive for Ehrlichia/Anaplasma and Babesia spp., respectively. One animal was PCR positive for both pathogens, which is the first report of coinfection in the country. The most common clinical signs observed include inappetence (89%), lethargy (80%), thrombocytopenia (85%), and anemia (74%). Analyses revealed that inappetence (p=0.044) and weight loss (p=0.028) were found statistically significant with Ehrlichia/Anaplasma infection. Basophil (p=0.001) and eosinophil counts (p=0.000) were also found significantly different between Ehrlichia/Anaplasma spp.-positive and -negative dogs. On the other hand, differential monocyte count (p=0.009) was found significantly different between Babesia spp.-positive and -negative dogs.

Conclusion: The present study showed low infection rates of canine ehrlichiosis/anaplasmosis and babesiosis and provided additional evidence for the presence of the pathogens in the area.

Keywords: Babesia, Cebu, dogs, Ehrlichia/Anaplasma, Philippines.

Veterinary World reviewer acknowledgment 2017

Reviewer Acknowledgment (Published online: 12-01-2018)

3. Veterinary World reviewer acknowledgment 2017

A. V. Sherasiya and Nazir

Veterinary World, 11(1): 10-13

Third wave of African swine fever infection in Armenia: Virus demonstrates the reduction of pathogenicity

Research (Published online: 11-01-2018)

2. Third wave of African swine fever infection in Armenia: Virus demonstrates the reduction of pathogenicity

M. A. Sargsyan, H. E. Voskanyan, E. M. Karalova, L. H. Hakobyan and Z. A. Karalyan

Veterinary World, 11(1): 5-9

ABSTRACT

Aim: First cases of clinically uncommon African swine fever (ASF), caused by virus genotype II are described in this article. These cases occurred in Armenia, Tavush region, Dilijan municipality in 2011. The aim of this study was to identify and describe the new pathogenic forms of ASF in Armenia.

Materials and Methods: The isolation and identification of ASF virus (ASFV) were carried out using conventional techniques. Clinical signs of infection were recorded daily. Gross anatomical pathology characteristics were observed during routine postmortem examinations. Blood and serum were obtained by puncture of the jugular vein using a vacutainer system.

Results: The presence of ASFV DNA in the spleens was confirmed by polymerase chain reaction. Sequenced sections of p72 showed phylogenetic identity to genotype 2. The pathology exhibits unusual manifestations of the main disease. The unusual form of ASF demonstrates characteristics of a subacute form of the disease, with the possibility of conversion to a chronic form. Decreased lethality, low level of hemorrhages, and absence of severe pancytopenia in smears from spleen, lymph nodes, and blood are common features of the new form of ASF. Unlike severe thrombocytopenia in the typical ASF, the unusual form exhibited moderate or minor decrease of this feature. Despite a moderate decrease in hemadsorption titers, the unusual pattern of the disease was characterized by viremia and the presence of the virus in the visceral organs, including the brain.

Conclusion: Our data allow assuming that new nosological form of ASF (genotype II) may present as a transitional form of the disease with the possibility of chronization.

Keywords: African swine fever, chronization, new isolate, viremia.

In vitro potential anthelmintic activity of Biophytum petersianum on Haemonchus contortus

Research (Published online: 11-01-2018)

1. In vitro potential anthelmintic activity of Biophytum petersianum on Haemonchus contortus

Priyo Sambodo, Joko Prastowo, Kurniasih Kurniasih and Sudarmanto Indarjulianto

Veterinary World, 11(1): 1-4

ABSTRACT

Aim: Haemonchus contortus is a major problem in small ruminants in Indonesia. The frequent use of the anthelmintic drugs has given rise to drug-resistant populations which increase the need for new anthelminthic compounds, particularly from endemic plants. This study evaluated the in vitro effects of Biophytum petersianum crude aqueous extract (BAE) as an anthelmintic compound against H. contortus adult worm isolated from goats.

Materials and Methods: Adult worm collected from naturally infected abomasums were obtained from slaughtered goats on the day of slaughter. BAE was prepared in six different concentrations (10, 20, 40, 60, 80, and 100 mg/ml) which were tested for their efficacies on ten actively moving worms. Ivermectin (1 mg/ml) was included as a reference drug, while saline water was included as a control. The dead worms from anthelmintic test then went through sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM).

Results: Highest mean mortality in treatments group both at 2 h and 4 h observations was BAE 10%. The SDS-PAGE analysis revealed the presence of five protein bands with molecular weights 9.3, 17.1, 50.0, 63.2, and 72.7 kDa based on BAE 10%. The SEM changes observed in the in vitro trials revealed the occurrence of interactions between the BAE and the cuticle.

Conclusion: The SEM and SDS-PAGE analysis revealed ultrastructural structural changes and the decrease numbers of polypeptides on treated worms when compared to the control worms. It can thus be concluded that the BAE exhibits good anthelmintic activity against H. contortus adult worm.

Keywords: Biophytum petersianum, crude aqueous extract, Haemonchus contortus, scanning electron microscopy, sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis.

Isolation, culture, characterization, and osteogenic differentiation of canine endometrial mesenchymal stem cell

Research (Published online: 30-12-2017)

19. Isolation, culture, characterization, and osteogenic differentiation of canine endometrial mesenchymal stem cell

A. K. Sahoo, J. K. Das and S. Nayak

Veterinary World, 10(12): 1533-1541

ABSTRACT

Aim: In this study, the canine endometrium tissue is characterized for its stem cell properties such as adherence to tissue culture plate (plasticity), short population doubling time, serial clonal passaging, long-term culturing properties, stem cell marker expression, and multilineage differentiation potential.

Materials and Methods: The present work describes a novel isolation protocol for obtaining mesenchymal stem cells from the uterine endometrium and is compared with cells derived from umbilical cord matrix as a positive control. These cells are clonogenic, can undergo several population doublings in vitro, and can be differentiated to the osteocytes in mature mesenchymal tissues when grown in osteogenic differentiation media as detected by Alizarin Red-S staining.

Results: It is reported for the first time that the cells derived from the canine endometrium (e-multipotent stem cells [MSCs]) were able to differentiate into a heterologous cell type: Osteocytes, thus demonstrating the presence of MSCs. Thus, the endometrium may be told as a potential source of MSCs which can be used for various therapeutic purposes.

Conclusion: The endometrium can be used as a potential source of MSCs, which can be used for various therapeutic purposes.

Keywords: Alizarin Red-S staining, endometrium, mesenchymal stem cell, multipotent stem cells marker, osteogenic differentiation media.

Insights into bovine endometritis with special reference to phytotherapy

Review (Published online: 29-12-2017)

18. Insights into bovine endometritis with special reference to phytotherapy

Ritika Mandhwani, Anavil Bhardwaz, Sudarshan Kumar, Madhu Shivhare and Ranjit Aich

Veterinary World, 10(12): 1529-1532

ABSTRACT

Postpartum reproductive disorders cause heavy economic losses in dairy sector. Uterine infections include endometritis, metritis, mucometra, and pyometra. Postpartum endometritis in dairy cows has been defined as inflammation of endometrium occurring 21 days or more after parturition without systemic signs of illness. The treatment of endometritis with antimicrobials has met with varying degrees of success, inconsistent recovery rate, high cost of treatment, milk disposal, emergence of microbial resistance, and reduced phagocytic activity of polymorphonuclear leukocytes In our country, around 20,000 medicinal plant species have been recorded, but more than 500 traditional communities use about 800 plant species for curing different diseases. Many herbs such as garlic, neem, ashwagandha, and turmeric have been tried for the treatment of endometritis in cows with a good success.

Keywords: ashwagandha, bovine, endometritis, garlic, neem, phytotherapy, tulsi, turmeric.

Studies on reconstruction of large skin defects following mammary tumor excision in dogs

Research (Published online: 27-12-2017)

17. Studies on reconstruction of large skin defects following mammary tumor excision in dogs

Sabarish Babu Malli Sadhasivan, Mohamed Shafiuzama, Mala Shammi, Ganne Venkata Sudhakar Rao, Nitin J D Souza, Hemalatha Senthilnayagam, Ravi Sundar George and P. Manoj Prabhakar

Veterinary World, 10(12): 1521-1528

ABSTRACT

Aim: The main objective of the study was to describe the use of skin fold advancement flaps (SFAFs) and other reconstructive techniques for closure of large skin defects following mammary tumor excision in dogs.

Materials and Methods: Twelve dogs underwent reconstruction of large ventral skin defects following mammary tumor excision with wide margins. Skin fold flaps (flank fold flap and elbow fold flap) were elevated from the flank and elbow region, respectively, and transposed and sutured onto the large ventral skin defect following mastectomy in all the dogs. In addition to the skin fold flaps, other reconstructive techniques such as undermining, walking sutures, and tension-relieving suture techniques were followed during surgery in the closure of large skin defects without skin tension and compromising limb mobility. The skin flap viability was assessed subjectively by gross observation of the flap such as color, temperature, capillary perfusion, and cosmetic appearance, and scoring (1-4) was done. Tissue samples were collected from a surgical site on days 3, 6, and 12 post-operatively for histopathological evaluation and healing status of the skin flap.

Results: All the surgical wounds healed primarily, without any major complications and the skin flap remained healthy throughout the healing process post-operatively. Distal flap necrosis was noticed in one case and necrosis of skin flap between two suture lines was noticed in another case in which the necrotized distal portion healed by secondary intention after 7 days. The mean survival of subdermal plexus flap in the above cases was 98% which was a subjective evaluation based on surface area of the skin defect measured by Image 'J software and the flap dimensions. The average healing of skin flap in days was 14.91±0.86.

Conclusion: The SFAFs along with other reconstructive techniques help in the reconstruction of large ventral skin defects following mastectomy in dogs without much compromising limb mobility.

Keywords: canine, histopathology, mammary tumors, reconstruction, skin fold flaps.

Isolation and identification of a cellulolytic Enterobacter from rumen of Aceh cattle

Research (Published online: 26-12-2017)

16. Isolation and identification of a cellulolytic Enterobacter from rumen of Aceh cattle

Wenny Novita Sari, Safika, Darmawi and Yudha Fahrimal

Veterinary World, 10(12): 1515-1520

ABSTRACT

Aim: The aim of this study was to isolate and identify a cellulolytic bacterium from the rumen fluid of Aceh's cattle. Biodegradation by cellulolytic rumen bacteria can be used as a source of cellulolytic bacteria that act to degrade feed fibrous material so as to improve the quality of nutrients and digestibility of feed ingredients at a cheaper price than the use of commercial cellulase enzymes.

Materials and Methods: Samples were collected from rumen fluid of Aceh's cattle in Abattoirs (RPH) of Banda Aceh city, Indonesia, isolation, and screening of cellulolytic bacteria were done in Microbiology Laboratory, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Syiah Kuala University, Banda Aceh, Indonesia.

Results: The S1 isolates showed ±2.5 cm of clear zone diameter. Microscopically, this strain was found to be a Gram-negative, Bacillus. Homology and phylogenetic tree analysis of 16S rRNA showed that S1 isolate has 91% of sequence similarity with that of Enterobacter cloacae. 91% sequence homology shown in this study proved that the S1 isolate is probably either a new species or another genus of Enterobacteriaceae.

Conclusion: Current study suggests that cellulose hydrolytic bacteria isolated from rumen fluid of Aceh cattle on Bushnell Haas medium-carboxymethylcellulose agar, and some potent cellulose degrading bacteria have been identified.

Keywords: Aceh cattle, cellulose, cellulolytic bacteria, Enterobacteriaceae, rumen.

Level of knowledge of small-scale milk producers on bovine tuberculosis (Mycobacterium bovis) in selected parts of Chongwe district

Research (Published online: 25-12-2017)

13. Level of knowledge of small-scale milk producers on bovine tuberculosis (Mycobacterium bovis) in selected parts of Chongwe district - Emmanuel Chileshe

International Journal of One Health, 3: 83-86

Abstract

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Aim: This study was intended to establish the level of knowledge of small-scale milk producers on bovine tuberculosis (BTB), one of the neglected zoonotic diseases.

Materials and Methods: In this study, a descriptive cross-sectional survey design was used. A total of 369 small-scale milk producers were interviewed using a pretested interviewer questionnaire. Using a computer, data obtained from the operator-administered questionnaires were entered in Epidata® and exported to Stata 10.0® for analysis with which descriptive statistics were generated for analysis. The level of knowledge on BTB for both male and female small-scale milk producers was analyzed in relation to membership to cooperative, frequency of TB tests in cattle, availability of extension services, and milk handling and utilization practices. The relationships between the different hypothesized confounders and the binary outcome (BTB testing) were investigated with Pearson’s Chi-squared test for association. Logistic regression model describing the BTB cattle testing among the farmers controlling for hypothesized confounders was finalized using likelihood ratio testing to screen the significance of posited confounders in the model. To ensure validity and eliminate bias of data, the interviews were limited to three interviewers. The questionnaires were pre-tested for clarity as well as to avoid confounding questions.

Results: Majority (95%) of the small-scale milk producers across the study had heard about BTB. The proportion of those who knew that it is transmittable to humans was low (43.8%). The proportion of those who knew its mode of transmission to humans was also low (32.4%). However, it was high in milk producers belonging to dairy cooperatives followed by producers in livestock cooperatives. It was noted that a small proportion of small-scale milk producers ensured that their cattle were tested for BTB. Logistic regression showed that there was 73 times likelihood that small-scale milk producers belonging to dairy cooperatives will have their cattle tested for BTB.

Conclusion: The study established a low level of knowledge on BTB transmission and prevention. It also concluded that few cattle in the small-scale milk production sector get tested for BTB and that the level of knowledge of the milk producers on BTB, in this sector, is associated with this.

Keywords: bovine tuberculosis, Mycobacterium bovis, veterinary extension.

Effect of probiotic supplementation on organic feed to alternative antibiotic growth promoter on production performance and economics analysis of quail

Research (Published online: 25-12-2017)

15. Effect of probiotic supplementation on organic feed to alternative antibiotic growth promoter on production performance and economics analysis of quail

W. P. Lokapirnasari, A. R. Dewi, A. Fathinah, S. Hidanah, N. Harijani, Soeharsono, B. Karimah and A. D. Andriani

Veterinary World, 10(12): 1508-1514

ABSTRACT

Aim: The purpose of this study was to know the production performance and economic analysis in quail which use probiotic supplementation to alternate antibiotic growth promoter (AGP) to feed consumption, water consumption, egg production, egg mass, feed conversion, and feed efficiency.

Materials and Methods: About 240 quails (Coturnix coturnix japonica) at 14 weeks of age were completely randomized into four treatments, each treatment consisted of six replications and each replication consisted by 10 heads. The treatment was T0 (organic feed without AGP and without probiotic), T1 (organic feed + 0.001% AGP), T2 (organic feed + 0.005% probiotic in feed), and T3 (organic feed + 0.005% probiotic in drinking water). The probiotic consist of 1.2x105 CFU/g of Lactobacillus casei and Lactobacillus rhamnosus.

Results: The results showed that the probiotic supplementation both in feed and water give a significant impact to feed consumption, water intake, feed conversion, feed efficiency, and quail day production, but no statistical difference of egg mass. The T3 also show the most profitable business analysis, which has the best result in income, profit, break-even point, return cost ratio, benefit-cost ratio, and return on investment.

Conclusion: It can be concluded that giving 0.005% probiotic in drinking water to get the best egg production and profit.

Keywords: antibiotic growth promoter, economic analysis, probiotic, production performance, quail.

Isolation, molecular characterization and prevalence of Clostridium perfringens in sheep and goats of Kashmir Himalayas, India

Research (Published online: 22-12-2017)

14. Isolation, molecular characterization and prevalence of Clostridium perfringens in sheep and goats of Kashmir Himalayas, India

Salik Nazki, Shakil A. Wani, Rafia Parveen, Showkat A. Ahangar, Zahid A. Kashoo, Syed Hamid, Zahoor A. Dar, Tanveer A. Dar and Pervaiz A. Dar

Veterinary World, 10(12): 1501-1507

ABSTRACT

Aim: The study was conducted to report the occurrence of the Clostridium perfringens in sheep and goats of the Kashmir valley for the 1st time and to characterize them molecularly with respect to toxin genes to determine the prevalence of the various toxinotypes.

Materials and Methods: A total of 177 samples (152 from sheep and 25 from goats) collected from healthy, diarrheic animals, and morbid material of animals suspected to have died of enterotoxaemia were screened for C. perfringens toxinotypes. The presumptive positive isolates were confirmed using 16S rRNA gene-based polymerase chain reaction (PCR). All the confirmed isolates were screened for six toxin genes, namely; cpa, cpb, etx, cpi, cpb2, and cpe using a multiplex PCR.

Results: The PCR amplification of 16S rRNA gene revealed that out of 177 samples collected, 125 (70.62%) were found positive for C. perfringens, of which 110 (72.36%) were from sheep and 15 (60%) were from goats. The highest prevalence of C. perfringens toxinotype D was observed in lambs (56.16%) and kids (46.16%) followed by 3.84% in adult sheep while it was absent in samples obtained from adult goats. The multiplex PCR revealed that 67 (60.90%) isolates from sheep and 8 (53.33%) isolates from goats belonged to toxinotype A, while 43 (39.09%) isolates from sheep and 7 (46.66%) isolates from goats were detected as toxinotype D. None of the isolates was found to be toxinotype B, C, or E. All the C. perfringens toxinotype A isolates from sheep were negative for both cpb2 and cpe genes, however, 27.90% toxinotype D isolates from sheep carried cpb2 gene, and 6.97% possessed cpe gene. In contrast, 12.50% C. perfringens toxinotype A isolates from goats harbored cpb2 and cpe genes while 14.28% isolates belonging to toxinotype D carried cpb2 and cpe genes, respectively.

Conclusion: The high prevalence of C. perfringens was observed, even in day-old lambs. The toxinotypes A and D are prevalent in both sheep and goats. The severity of disease and mortality may be associated with the presence of minor toxins in both the detected toxinotypes.

Keywords: Clostridium perfringens, enterotoxemia, multiplex polymerase chain reaction, toxinotype, 16S rRNA.

Partial purification and characterization of glutathione S-transferase from the somatic tissue of Gastrothylax crumenifer (Trematoda: Digenea)

Research (Published online: 21-12-2017)

13. Partial purification and characterization of glutathione S-transferase from the somatic tissue of Gastrothylax crumenifer (Trematoda: Digenea)

Sakil Ahmed, Aamir Sohail, Sabiha Khatoon, Shabnam Khan and Mohammad Khalid Saifullah

Veterinary World, 10(12): 1493-1500

ABSTRACT

Aim: Aim of the present study was to carry out the partial purification and biochemical characterization of glutathione S-transferase (GST) from the somatic tissue of ruminal amphistome parasite, Gastrothylax crumenifer (Gc) infecting Indian water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis).

Materials and Methods: The crude somatic homogenate of Gc was subjected to progressive ammonium sulfate precipitation followed by size exclusion chromatography in a Sephacryl S 100-HR column. The partially purified GST was assayed spectrophotometrically, and the corresponding enzyme activity was also recorded in polyacrylamide gel. GST isolated from the amphistome parasite was also exposed to variable changes in temperature and the pH gradient of the assay mixture.

Results: The precipitated amphistome GST molecules showed maximum activity in the sixth elution fraction. The GST subunit appeared as a single band in the reducing polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis with an apparent molecular weight of 26 kDa. The GST proteins were found to be fairly stable up to 37°C, beyond this the activity got heavily impaired. Further, the GST obtained showed a pH optima of 7.5.

Conclusion: Present findings showed that GST from Gc could be conveniently purified using gel filtration chromatography. The purified enzyme showed maximum stability and activity at 4°C.

Keywords: Bubalus bubalis, Gastrothylax crumenifer, glutathione S-transferase, purification, somatic tissue.

Seasonal influence on sperm parameters, scrotal measurements, and serum testosterone in Ouled Djellal breed rams in Algeria

Research (Published online: 21-12-2017)

12. Seasonal influence on sperm parameters, scrotal measurements, and serum testosterone in Ouled Djellal breed rams in Algeria

S. Belkadi, B. Safsaf, N. Heleili, M. Tlidjane, L. Belkacem and Y. Oucheriah

Veterinary World, 10(12): 1486-1492

ABSTRACT

Aim: This study was conducted to determine the effect of seasonal variations on testosterone serum concentration, body weight, scrotal circumference, and some sperm parameters in rams living in a semi-arid region of eastern part of Algeria.

Materials and Methods: Blood samples were taken monthly from eight Ouled Djellal rams, aged between 3 and 4 years, in the Technical Institute of Breeding "ITELV" located at Ain M'lila City. Sperm were collected by an electro-ejaculator once a month for 1 year (spring, summer, autumn, and winter: 3 times/season).

Results: Mean values of volume, mass motility, live sperm, and scrotal circumference were higher during spring (p<0.05) with 1.23±0.26 mL, 3.39±1.07, 79.16±15.82%, and 36.29±1.91 cm, respectively; whereas, the sperm concentration was higher during autumn with 1.19±0.56x10⁹ spz/ml compared to 0.46±0.13x10⁹ spz/mL to spring. The season influenced significantly the percentage of abnormal sperm (p<0.05), especially during winter (6.47±2.12%), but had no influence on the weight of rams. Seasonal hormonal activity was high with 4.89±2.06 ng/mL and 3.09±1.35 ng/mL of testosterone in mating seasons (spring and autumn, respectively), knowing that the sexual season is not marked too much in these latitude.

Conclusion: We can conclude that testosterone concentration is strongly correlated with the scrotal circumference and that the season has a significant influence on spermatic parameters, and that despite the large variations in sperm production, the rams can be used throughout the year.

Keywords: scrotal circumference, season, semi-arid area, spermatozoon, testosterone, weight.

The role of staphylococci in subclinical mastitis of cows and lytic phage isolation against to Staphylococcus aureus

Research (Published online: 16-12-2017)

11. The role of staphylococci in subclinical mastitis of cows and lytic phage isolation against to Staphylococcus aureus

Aliye Gulmez Saglam, Mitat Sahin, Elif Celik, Ozgur Celebi, Dogan Akca and Salih Otlu

Veterinary World, 10(12): 1481-1485

ABSTRACT

Aim: This study was conducted to determine the role of Staphylococcus in the formation of subclinical mastitis in cows and to isolate the phage against isolated Staphylococcus aureus strains.

Materials and Methods: In this study, 400 milk cows were screened by California Mastitis Test (CMT) for subclinical mastitis and 235 udders of 96 cows, which were determined to be positive, were evaluated for Staphylococcus. Milk samples were evaluated using conventional and molecular methods. In addition, phage isolation studies were performed against S. aureus strains causing mastitis.

Results: At the result of cultural examination, of 235 milk samples that were found as positive for mastitis by CMT, a total of 117 (49.7%) Staphylococcus spp. were isolated as a distribution of 74 (63.24%) coagulase-positive staphylococci and 43 (36.75%) coagulase-negative staphylococci. Of these isolates, 76 (64.95%) were characterized as S. aureus both conventional and molecular techniques. Lytic bacteriophages against two S. aureus strains which were isolated from mastitic milk samples were obtained from wastewater samples.

Conclusion: The results of this study show that a significant portion of subclinical mastitis was formed by staphylococci. In addition, phage isolation against S. aureus strains isolated can be considered as one of the steps to be applied in the prophylaxis and treatment of such infections.

Keywords: bacteriophage, dairy cow, Staphylococcus aureus, subclinical mastitis.