Volume 14 | March
Research Article | 02 Mar 2021
The vulnerary potential of botanical medicines in the treatment of bacterial pathologies in fish
Farida Nurzhanova, Gaisa Absatirov, Bekzhasar Sidikhov, Alexander Sidorchuk, Nurbek Ginayatov, and Kenzhebek Murzabaev

Volume-14 | Issue-3 | Article-1 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2021.551-557

Preview Abstract
The use of plant-based medicine in treating and preventing fish disease has become increasingly popular due to the resistance of bacterial pathogens to chemicals widely used in aquaculture. This study explored the vulnerary effect of botanical medicines made from local raw materials (greater celandine [Chelidonium majus L.], St. John's wort [Hypericum perforatum L.], and bur beggar-ticks [Bidens tripartita L.]) in the treatment of sturgeon bacterial pathologies in a controlled environment. The vulnerary activity of herbal infusions was studied on spontaneously infected fish by assessing the degree of wound healing at regular intervals: The state of the wound, reduction of the wound surface area, the formation of granulation tissue, epithelization, and wound contraction. A positive vulnerary effect of C. majus, H. perforatum, and B. tripartita was observed, consistent with the use of these plants in folk and traditional medicine. The plant materials eliminated infection, had anti-inflammatory and vulnerary effects, stimulated granulation tissue development, and enhanced regeneration. Compared with widely accepted methods (antibiotics and other chemotherapeutic agents), botanical medicine facilitated more effective treatment over the same period without side effects. Practical use and the results of this study show the potential of using herbal infusions for therapeutic purposes in aquaculture. Keywords: fish, plant raw material, vulnerary effect, wound.
Research Article | 02 Mar 2021
Peri-parturient hypocalcemia in goats: Clinical, hematobiochemical profiles and ultrasonographic measurements of postpartum uterine involution
Yasmin H. Bayoumi, Amany Behairy, Asmaa A. Abdallah, and Noura E. Attia

Volume-14 | Issue-3 | Article-2 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2021.558-568

Preview Abstract
Hypocalcemia in goats occurs around the time of parturition and is caused by decreasing level of calcium less than 10 mg/dL. This investigation characterized the hematological and biochemical profiles of peri-parturient hypocalcemia in goats and study the effects of hypocalcemia on uterine involution during the postpartum period on day 0 and then weekly postpartum (day +7, +14, +21, +28, +35, till +42). Forty-five polyparous native breed does age 3-5 years and weighing 40–60 kg were assigned to control and hypocalcemia groups based on their health history, clinical and biochemical findings. The control group included 10 clinically healthy pregnant does, and the hypocalcemia group included 35 late pregnant does that suffered from anorexia, weakness, muscle tremors of the hind limbs, and an inability to stand. Clinical examination and blood sampling in both groups were performed approximately 14 days before the expected time of kidding (day–14), at kidding day (day 0), on day +21, and +42 postpartum. Sonographic measurements were used to monitor uterine involution on day 0 and then weekly once the animal was postpartum (day +7, +14, +21, +28, +35, till +42) in both groups. Results of sonographic measurement revealed that the hypocalcemia group had a greater (p<0.05) size of the uterus as assessed transrectally and retarded uterine involution when compared with the control group. Laboratory findings revealed that does in both groups showed lower red blood cells, packed cell volume%, and hemoglobin (Hb) concentrations on day –14 before kidding and day 0 when compared with postpartum measurements. A significant increase (p<0.05) in total leukocyte counts, neutrophil, serum glucose, and cortisol levels with a significant decrease (p<0.05) in lymphocytes. Significant decreases (p<0.05) in serum calcium, phosphorous, vitamin D, and total antioxidant capacity levels with significant (p<0.05) increases in serum malondialdehyde were recorded on day 0 and day –14 in the hypocalcemia group when compared with the control group. This investigation provides evidence that hypocalcemia in does causes both metabolic and oxidative stress during peri-parturient periods while also retarding uterine involution during postpartum periods. Keywords: does, hypocalcemia, postpartum, ultrasonography, uterine involution.
Research Article | 06 Mar 2021
Histopathological evaluation of Senecio rhizomatus Rusby in 7,12-dimethylbenz(α) anthracene-induced breast cancer in female rats
Jorge Luis Arroyo-Acevedo, Oscar Herrera-Calderon, Juan Pedro Rojas-Armas, Roberto Chávez-Asmat, James Calva, and Tapan Behl

Volume-14 | Issue-3 | Article-3 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2021.569-577

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Senecio rhizomatus Rusby (SrR) is a medicinal plant of the Asteraceae family and traditionally consumed as infusion in the Andean region from Peru for inflammatory disorders. This study aimed to determine the histopathological changes afforded by SrR in 7, 12-dimethylbenz[α]anthracene (DMBA)-induced breast cancer (BC) in rats. An ethanolic extract of SrR aerial parts was prepared by maceration with 96% ethanol, and the chemical components were identified by gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry; the antioxidant activity was determined by 1,1-diphenyl-2-picril-hidrazil (DPPH) assay; and the acute toxicity was assessed according to the OCED 423 guidelines. In a pharmacological study, 30 female Holztman rats were distributed randomly into five groups, as follows. Group I: Negative control (physiological serum, 2 mL/kg); Group II. DMBA (80 mg/Kg body weight); and Groups III, IV, and V: DMBA + ethanol extract of SrR at doses of 10, 100, and 200 mg/kg, respectively. The antioxidant activity of the SrR extract against DPPH was 92.50% at 200 μg/mL. The oral administration of SrR at doses of 50, 300, 2000, and 5000 mg/kg did not show any clinical evidence of toxicity or occurrence of death. The groups that received SrR presented a lower frequency of tumors and a cumulative tumor volume compared with the DMBA group (p<0.05); the DMBA group exhibited a higher incidence of necrosis and moderate mitosis, up to 66.67% and 100.00%, respectively. Finally, infiltrating carcinoma with extensive tumor necrosis was evidenced. In experimental conditions, the ethanolic extract of SrR had a protective effect in DMBA-induced BC in female rats. Furthermore, the antioxidant activity of its main phytochemicals could be responsible for the effect observed, and SrR seems to be a safe extract in the preclinical phase. Keywords: breast cancer, carcinogenic, experimental pharmacology, phytotherapy, Senecio rhizomatus.

Volume-14 | Issue-3 | Article-4 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2021.578-584

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Enterotoxemia caused by Clostridium perfringens toxinotypes is an often fatal disease of sheep of all ages, with a substantial economic loss to the sheep industry. This study was conducted to isolate C. perfringens from suspected cases of enterotoxemia in sheep in the central part of the Qassim Region, Saudi Arabia, and to determine the prevalent toxinotype by detecting alpha (cpA), beta (cpB), and epsilon (etX) toxin genes, which might help control this disease locally. A total of 93 rectal swabs and intestinal content samples were collected from diseased and animals suspected of having died of enterotoxemia in early 2020. Samples were subjected to bacteriological examination, biochemical analysis of isolates by VITEK 2, and molecular toxinotyping of isolates by LightCycler® real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Our results revealed that only 14 isolates were confirmed by VITEK 2 as being C. perfringens, with excellent identification (probability of 95% and 97%). According to the toxinotyping of isolates by RT-PCR, all 14 isolates possessed both the cpA and etX toxin genes, while the cpB toxin gene was not detected in any of the isolates. Our findings demonstrated that C. perfringens type D was the only toxinotype found in the central part of the Qassim Region in 2020; moreover, according to the culture method, only 15% (14/93) of the suspected cases of enterotoxemia were confirmed to be caused by C. perfringens infection, which highlighted the importance of clinical and laboratory differential diagnosis of enterotoxemia in sheep. Keywords: Clostridium perfringens toxinotypes, enterotoxaemia, Qassim Region, real-time polymerase chain reaction, sheep, VITEK 2.

Volume-14 | Issue-3 | Article-5 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2021.585-588

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The concentration of serum progesterone is commonly used to determine the optimal mating time in bitches, and to diagnose reproductive-related abnormalities. This study aims to compare the serum progesterone results obtained by rapid fluorescence immunochromatography assay (RFICA) with those obtained by chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay (CMIA) from the same serum samples to develop a standard guideline for optimal breeding time. Serum progesterone levels were measured in 124 bitches using RFICA and CMIA. Simple linear regression and correlation analyses were performed to analyze the data. The percentage difference between the maximum and minimum progesterone values in the same serum sample in the same assay was compared using Wilcoxon's rank-sum test. The present study showed a strong linear dependence of the results obtained by RFICA on those obtained by CMIA as R2=0.8976, with regression coefficient of 0.9474 and p<0.05, including the regression model was CMIA = (0.9483 × RFICA) - 0.761. Moreover, five critical measurement times during estrous in bitches showed statistically significant differences (p<0.05), except at the fertilizable period, which showed a non-significant difference (p>0.05). This study demonstrated that it is presumably acceptable to use the RFICA and CMIA methods interchangeably for quality progesterone measurements in serum samples from bitches. However, when considering the use of the RFICA method, it is advisable to carefully interpret the results and follow the interpretation guidelines. Finally, RFICA in the present study provides a reliable and convenient option for veterinarian practitioners to measure canine progesterone levels in-house. Keywords: bitches, chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay, optimal breed timing, progesterone, rapid fluorescence immunochromatography assay.
Research Article | 08 Mar 2021
Pretreatment with Salvadora persica L. (Miswak) aqueous extract alleviates paracetamol-induced hepatotoxicity, nephrotoxicity, and hematological toxicity in male mice
Mohd Alaraj, Tolgahan Acar, Irena Kosinska, Bahaa Al-Trad, Ammar M. Almaaytah, Mohamed J. Saadh, Mohammed A. Qumani, Shahid M. Syed, Khalil I. Altaif, and Hossain Ashfaque

Volume-14 | Issue-3 | Article-6 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2021.589-594

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Paracetamol (PCM) ingestion is one of the most frequent global causes of toxicity. Salvadora persica L. is a plant that among many other effects exhibits potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticancer effects. In this study, we investigated the possible protective effect of S. persica aqueous extract in the PCM overdose-induced liver and kidney injury and hematological changes in a mice model. Mice were given PCM with and without S. persica pretreatment. Blood cell counts and liver and kidney function biomarkers were measured. Liver and kidney samples were histologically examined. A single overdose of PCM caused significant elevations of alanine and aspartate transaminases, alkaline phosphate, bilirubin, urea, uric acid, and creatinine compared with the control group. In addition, PCM toxicity significantly lowered red blood cell count but insignificantly increased both white blood cell and platelet counts in comparison to the control mice. Pretreatment with S. persica significantly prevented PCM-induced changes in hepatic and renal biomarkers. S. persica also caused marked reversal of hematological changes. Histologically, the liver and kidney showed inflammation and necrosis after PCM treatment, which were significantly reduced in mice pretreated with S. persica. Taken together, S. persica significantly inhibited PCM-induced renal, hepatic, and hematological toxicity, pointing to its possible use in the treatment of liver and renal disorders. Keywords: hematology, kidney, liver, mice, paracetamol, Salvadora persica L.

Volume-14 | Issue-3 | Article-7 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2021.595-602

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The use of antibiotics as growth promoters in the feed of poultry, has contributed to an increase in the antimicrobial resistance of foodborne pathogens worldwide. Hence, the development of new effective alternatives to antibiotics that do not hinder productivity is imperative. For this, the aim of the present study was to determine whether oregano essential oil (OEO) extracted from Lippia origanoides is a suitable alternative to growth-promoting antibiotics (GPAs) for improving the performance, egg quality, and intestinal morphometry of ISA Brown laying hens. A total of ninety-six 70-week-old ISA Brown laying hens were randomly assigned to four treatment groups with four replicates per treatment and six hens per replicate. The treatments consisted of four different diets that were formulated according to the nutritional requirements of the genetic line and the production phase with and without the addition of GPA and OEO: NC, which did not contain OEO or GPA; GPA, which included 50 ppm zinc bacitracin as a GPA; 80OEO, which included 80 ppm OEO and no GPA; and 150OEO, which included 150 ppm OEO and no GPA. All of the OEO and GPA treatment groups had a better feed conversion ratio than the NC group. However, the addition of 150 ppm OEO to the diet improved the percentage egg production and egg mass, as well as the external and internal quality of the egg compared with the other treatments. In addition, both the 80OEO and 150OEO treatments improved the yolk color, shell thickness, and shell color, as well as parameters related to the intestinal morphometry compared with the NC group. The findings of this study indicate that 150 ppm OEO can be used as a substitute for GPA to improve the performance, egg quality, and parameters related to the intestinal morphometry of ISA Brown laying hens. Keywords: egg quality, growth promoter antibiotic, intestinal morphometry, oregano essential oil, performance.
Research Article | 09 Mar 2021
Prevalence and molecular characterization of canine parvovirus
Parikshit Singh, Gurpreet Kaur, Mudit Chandra, and P. N. Dwivedi

Volume-14 | Issue-3 | Article-8 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2021.603-606

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Canine parvovirus (CPV) belonging to family Parvoviridae causes hemorrhagic gastroenteritis in dogs and heavy mortality in young dogs. The virus has three structural (VP1, VP2 and VP3) and two non-structural proteins (NS1 and NS2), VP2 being highly immunogenic. This study aims to study molecular epidemiology of CPV by sequence analysis of VP2 gene to determine the prevailing antigenic type(s) in the northern regions of India. A total of 118 rectal swabs collected from dogs exhibiting clinical signs of CPV infection were processed for the isolation of DNA and subjected to polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and nested PCR (NPCR). A total of 13 NPCR products selected randomly were subjected to sequence analysis of VP2 gene. The percent positivity of CPV was found 28% and 70% by PCR and NPCR, respectively. Dogs with vaccination history against CPV too were found positive with a percent positivity of 24.10%. Gene sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of VP2 gene from these isolates revealed that most samples formed a clade with CPV-2a isolates. Sequence analysis and phylogenetic analysis of VP2 gene in the studied regions of northern India revealed that CPV-2a was the most prevalent antigenic type. Keywords: canine parvovirus, nested polymerase chain reaction, polymerase chain reaction, sequence analysis, VP2 gene.
Research Article | 10 Mar 2021
Identification and distribution of Brachyspira species in feces from finishing pigs in Argentina
Alicia Carranza, Julián Parada, Pablo Tamiozzo, Malena Flores León, Pablo Camacho, Gabriel Di Cola, Enrique Corona-Barrera, Arnaldo Ambrogi, and Gustavo Zielinski

Volume-14 | Issue-3 | Article-9 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2021.607-613

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Brachyspira are Gram-negative, aerotolerant spirochetes that colonize the large intestine of various species of domestic animals and humans. The aim of this study was to determine the presence and distribution of different species of Brachyspira presents in feces from finishing pigs in Argentina. Fecal samples (n=1550) were collected from finishing pigs in 53 farms of the most important swine production areas of Argentina, and Brachyspiras species were identified by bacteriological and molecular methods. The regional prevalence of Brachyspira spp. was at the level of 75.5% (confidence interval 95%, 62.9-87.9), and it was lower among those farms with >1001 sows. One hundred and twenty-eight isolates of Brachyspira were properly identified and the species found were: Brachyspira hyodysenteriae, Brachyspira pilosicoli, Brachyspira innocens, and Brachyspira murdochii. B. hyodysenteriae and B. pilosicoli had low prevalence (1.9% and 7.5%, respectively), B. innocens was isolated from 34% of the farms and B. murdochii was found in 39.6%. The present study provides epidemiological data about herd prevalence of the different Brachyspira species in Argentina, showing that the prevalence figure seems to be higher than that reported in other countries. Keywords: Brachyspira species, diagnosis, herd prevalence, intestinal spirochetes, swine.
Research Article | 11 Mar 2021
The rabies distribution pattern on dogs using average nearest neighbor analysis approach in the Karangasem District, Bali, Indonesia, in 2019
Serli Eka Melyantono, Heru Susetya, Prima Widayani, I Wayan Masa Tenaya, and Dinar Hadi Wahyu Hartawan

Volume-14 | Issue-3 | Article-10 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2021.614-624

Preview Abstract
Rabies is a severe progressive encephalitis disease in dogs characterized as a zoonosis. The transmission of rabies between animals in Karangasem District, Bali is still high and continues until today; therefore, rabies in the district still actively circulating. The distribution pattern of rabies, especially in the district, is unknown. This research aimed to describe the spatial distribution of rabies in Karangasem District. The information would help in developing effective control strategies for the disease. An observational study was carried out using 38 positive rabies cases confirmed by the direct fluorescent antibody test diagnosed at the Disease Investigation Centre of Denpasar from September 2018 to September 2019. The Global Positioning System was used to take the geographical coordinates of the places where positive rabies cases had been confirmed in Karangasem District. The ArcGIS version 10.3 (ESRI) was used to determine and analyze the distribution pattern using the average nearest neighbor (ANN) method. On the basis of the ANN analysis, the rabies distribution pattern in Karangasem District in 2019 was clustered in groups but not significant (Z-score=–1.670309 [<–1.65], p=0.094858 [<0.1]; nearest neighbor ratio=0.858364). The rabies distribution pattern in each subdistrict of Karangasem was dispersed significantly since it had z-score of more than 2.58, p-value less than 0.1 and nearest neighbor ratio of more than 1. The rabies distribution in Karangasem District had a clustered pattern, although this was not significant. The grouping of rabies in Karangasem District showed a significant dispersed pattern in the subdistricts Abang, Bebandem, and Karangasem. The dispersed pattern of the rabies cases in the subdistricts was caused by unidentified stray dogs that lived in rice fields and other fields and by the whole district's hilly and mountainous topography. The ANN analysis suggested that for rabies control in Karangasem District, vaccination, elimination, and sterilization of stray dogs should be conducted in densely populated areas. Keywords: average nearest neighbor, rabies distribution pattern, rabies.
Research Article | 12 Mar 2021
Molecular detection and identification of Babesia bovis and Trypanosoma spp. in one-humped camel (Camelus dromedarius) breeds in Egypt
Shimaa Abd El-Salam El-Sayed, Mohamed A. El-Adl, Mayar O. Ali, Mostafa Al-Araby, Mosaab A. Omar, Mohamed El-Beskawy, Shimaa Sobhy Sorour, Mohamed Abdo Rizk, and Magdy Elgioushy

Volume-14 | Issue-3 | Article-11 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2021.625-633

Preview Abstract
Camels are a unique source of milk and meat, which helps recover from several diseases that affect humans worldwide. In Egypt, one of the great obstacles for this industry is tick-borne diseases. This study aimed to characterize blood parasite infections, such as Babesia (B.) bovis and Trypanosoma (T.) spp. in one-humped camel (Camelus dromedarius) (n=142) breeds in Halayeb and Shalateen, Egypt, through phylogenetic analysis. The prevalence of B. bovis and Trypanosoma spp. was identified in camels using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays targeting the Rhoptry-Associated Protein-1 and internal transcribed spacer 1 genes, respectively. A nested PCR technique was conducted to detect B. bovis. At the same time, KIN multispecies PCR assay was employed to diagnose and classify trypanosome DNA in camels. B. bovis was detected in 4/142 camels with an infection rate of 2.81%. Sequencing and phylogenetic analyses revealed that the strain of B. bovis isolated from this population was closely related to strains isolated from Argentine, the United States, and Brazil. Moreover, Trypanosoma evansi was detected in 8/142 camels with an infection rate of 5.63%. Sequencing and phylogenetic analyses revealed that this isolated strain T. evansi was closely related to Trypanosoma theileri detected from cattle in Brazil. The obtained data indicated the existence of B. bovis and T. evansi in camels from two provinces of Egypt. The obtained findings have economic significance and reflect the importance of implementing effective prevention and control methods across Egypt to reduce the incidence of B. bovis and T. evansi in camels. Keywords: Babesia bovis, camel, Egypt, epidemiology, Trypanosoma spp.
Research Article | 13 Mar 2021
Phylogenetic study of Theileria ovis and Theileria lestoquardi in sheep from Egypt: Molecular evidence and genetic characterization
Amira Adel Al-Hosary, Ahmed ElSify, Akram A. Salama, Mohamed Nayel, Ahmed Elkhtam, Layla Omran Elmajdoub, Mohamed Abdo Rizk, Manal Mohammed Hawash, Mohammad Ali Al-Wabel, Abdulaziz M. Almuzaini, Laila Salah El-Din Ahmed, Anand Paramasivam, Suresh Mickymaray, and Mosaab A. Omar

Volume-14 | Issue-3 | Article-12 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2021.634-639

Preview Abstract
Ovine theileriosis caused by Theileria ovis and Theileria lestoquardi is an important infectious disease affecting small ruminants in regions of the tropic and subtropic zones. There is limited studies about ovine theileriosis in Egypt; so the present study aims to assess the occurrence of ovine theileriosis in Egypt at the molecular level. Blood samples were collected from 115 randomly selected sheep, which were apparently healthy; the ages of the sampled sheep ranged from 1 to 5 years old, from a local breed (barkae and balade), and showed no symptoms indicating infection with Theileria spp. The study was conducted in three governorates representing Lower Egypt (Menoufia and Beheira) and Upper Egypt (El-Wady El-Geded). All blood samples were subjected to polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and semi-nested PCR to target Theileria spp. 18S rRNA genes. Positive samples were sequenced, and these sequences were analyzed using nucleotide basic local alignment search tool (BLAST). Six animals (5.22%) were PCR-positive carriers for ovine theileriosis. Nucleotide BLAST and phylogenetic analyses of the six obtained sequences showed that T. ovis was present in five animals (4.37%) in Menoufia (n=2) and El-Wady El-Geded (n=3), whereas T. lestoquardi was detected in 1 animal (0.87%) in El-Wady El-Geded. This study is the first to provide molecular evidence, genetic characterization, and phylogenetic analysis of ovine Theileria spp. in Egypt. Specifically, T. lestoquardi and T. ovis carrier statuses of sheep were confirmed. These results highlight the importance of developing an effective control strategy against ovine theileriosis carriers that might develop and/or spread theileriosis. Keywords: Egypt, polymerase chain reaction, phylogeny, Theileria lestoquardi, Theileria ovis.

Volume-14 | Issue-3 | Article-13 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2021.640-648

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Feeding ruminants must notice the degradability of feed, especially protein. Microbial rumen requires ammonia from rumen degradable protein (RDP) beside that ruminant require bypass protein or rumen undegradable protein (RUP) and microbial crude protein. The aim of the study was to discover the best RDP:RUP ratio in beef cattle diets commonly used by Indonesian farmers using an in vitro methodology. Samples of Pennisetum purpureum, Leucaena leucocephala, Indigofera zollingeriana, cassava, maize, palm kernel cake, rice bran, and tofu waste were formulated into dietary treatments (dry matter [DM] basis). All experiments were carried out using a 3×3×2 factorial, randomized block design with three replications. Treatments consisted of three protein levels (12%, 14%, and 16%), two energy levels (65% and 70%), and three RDP:RUP ratio levels (55:45, 60:40, and 65:35). The experimental diets were incubated in vitro using buffered rumen fluid for 48 h at 39°C. After incubation, the supernatants were analyzed to determine pH, ammonia concentration, total volatile fatty acid (VFA), and microbial protein synthesis. The residues were analyzed to determine DM, organic matter, protein, and RUP digestibility. Increased protein, energy, and RDP levels increased digestibility, ammonia concentrations, total VFAs, and microbial protein synthesis (p<0.05), while rations with 16% protein lowered these parameters (p<0.05). Increased dietary protein (from 12% to 14% DM), energy (from 65% to 70% DM), and RDP (from 55% to 65% crude protein [CP]) levels increased nutrient digestibility, ammonia concentration, total VFA levels, and microbial protein synthesis. The diet containing 14% DM dietary protein and 70% DM energy, which contained 55%, 60%, or 65% CP RDP optimally increased nutrient digestibility, ammonia concentration, total VFA levels, and microbial protein synthesis. Thus, feed based on these RDP:RUP ratios can optimize ruminant productivity. Keywords: digestibility, microbial protein synthesis, protein, rumen characteristic, rumen degradable protein, rumen undegradable protein.

Volume-14 | Issue-3 | Article-14 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2021.649-655

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Data about dynamics of serum biochemical parameters and negative energy balance (NEB) related conditions differ among geographical areas or farm types. It should be cautious about applying those data to justify control and prevention strategies of NEB problems. Therefore, dynamics of blood biochemical parameters related to NEB condition of peripartum dairy cows raised in either smallholder (SH) or semi-commercial (SC) farms were studied. Thirty-two healthy pregnant dry cows were selected from five dairy farms in Western part of Thailand, including 15 and 17 cows from three SH and two SC farms, respectively. Blood samples were collected at 2 weeks before the expected calving date, and 1, 2, 4, and 8 weeks postpartum to determine concentrations of glucose, non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA), and β-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA). Body condition scores (BCSs) and milk yields were also recorded. Dairy cows in both farm types suffered from NEB by elevation of serum NEFA and BHBA, and loss of BCS postpartum. Degrees of elevation in serum NEFA and BHBA were different between farm types. The SC cows showed more BCS loss postpartum, but lower serum NEFA. In the SH cows, even with less BCS loss, the cows showed high serum NEFA concentrations. Dairy cows in our study entered NEB condition even with low milk yields. Moreover, elevation of serum NEFA and BHBA postpartum was higher in our studied cows as compared with other studies in high producing cows of commercial dairy farms in temperate areas. Keywords: β-hydroxybutyrate, negative energy balance, non-esterified fatty acid, smallholder dairy farm, tropical area.
Research Article | 18 Mar 2021
Bacteriological quality of raw milk marketed in and around Guwahati city, Assam, India
Smita Kakati, Archana Talukdar, Razibuddin Ahmed Hazarika, Masuk Raquib, Saurabh Kumar Laskar, Girindra Kumar Saikia, and Zakir Hussein

Volume-14 | Issue-3 | Article-15 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2021.656-660

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Milk is a highly perishable commodity, which is subjected to various types of contamination right from the farm level to the consumers' table. This study aimed to assess the quality of raw milk sold in and around Guwahati city based on the microbial load. A total of 200 raw pooled milk samples collected from 25 different locations in and around Guwahati city were subjected to quality evaluation based on the methylene blue reduction test (MBRT), standard plate count, and coliform count as per the standard procedure. Out of the 200 samples evaluated, more than 50% of them were graded as poor to very poor quality based on the MBRT results. None of the samples could be graded as excellent quality and only 14.5% were graded as good quality. The standard plate count and coliform count of all the raw milk samples were found to be significantly higher than the legal standard. A highly significant (p<0.01) difference was observed for standard plate count and coliform count among the different locations in and around Guwahati city. From the present study, it could be inferred that raw milk sold in most parts of Guwahati city do not confer to the legal microbiological standard and may pose a high risk of milk-borne illness among consumers of the city, which needs a systematic series of actions to be implemented properly. Keywords: coliform count, methylene blue reduction test, raw milk, total viable count.
Research Article | 18 Mar 2021
Microbiome structure in a recirculating aquaculture system and its connection to infections in sturgeon fish
Nurlan Khabibullovich Sergaliev, Murat Galikhanovich Kakishev, Nurbek Satkanuly Ginayatov, Farida Khamidullievna Nurzhanova, and Evgeny Evgenievich Andronov

Volume-14 | Issue-3 | Article-16 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2021.661-668

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This study aimed to determine the bacterial composition at various stages of the temperature regime in a recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) to assess the pathological risk of a group of opportunistic pathogenic microflora. Water temperature, incidences of illnesses, and fish mortality were monitored, during the research period to identify the causes of pathogens in sturgeons. Analysis of the nucleotide sequences was performed using the quantitative insights into microbial ecology module. Sequence alignment in the analysis of the distribution of gene libraries was performed using the Unclust method. The RDP database was used for the taxonomic identification of operational taxonomic units. The pattern of the contraction of infection among sturgeons bred in the RAS was established. A detailed analysis of the microbiome structure's taxonomic features showed dominant taxa during the "artificial wintering" period and at a temperature optimum in industrial aquaculture. It was found that the main outbreaks of pseudomonosis occurred during this period in the RAS. With a decrease in temperature of the aquatic environment, the incidence of illness increased by 75% compared with the optimum temperature period. Pseudomonas, Cetobacterium, and Lactococcus were specific taxa characteristic for the "artificial wintering" period. Xanthomonadaceae and Flavobacterium were specific taxa characteristic for the optimum temperature. Consequently, the microbial structure was determined at different temperature regimes in a RAS, and the dominant communities were identified. The pattern of the contraction of infection caused by an opportunistic microflora (pseudomonosis) among sturgeons was established, allowing for the development and correction of treatment and preventive measures. Keywords: metagenomics, microbial contamination, microbiome, recirculating aquaculture system, sturgeon.
Research Article | 19 Mar 2021
Effect of feed additive "Ceobalyk" on the biological and microbiological parameters of African sharptooth catfish (Clarias gariepinus)
Nurzhan Biltebaevna Sarsembayeva, Ardak Sabyrzhanovna Akkozova, Tolkyn Bakytovna Abdigaliyeva, Aida Bolatbekovna Abzhalieva, and Aray Berkimbekovna Aidarbekova

Volume-14 | Issue-3 | Article-17 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2021.669-677

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This study aimed to analyze biological and microbiological parameters of Clarias gariepinus bred at Chundzha natural hot spring in the Almaty region of Kazakhstan, a new feed additive, namely, the prebiotic "Ceobalyk." Two groups (50 heads each) of fish of the same age were established and kept in specialized rectangular pools of AsylTasEngineering LLP. The experiment lasted 61 days. We used the feed additive "Ceobalyk", developed based on natural minerals. Feed additive was added to the feed of the experimental group of fish in an amount of 10% per 1 kg of the main diet. Laboratory studies were conducted at the laboratories of the Kazakhstan-Japan Innovation Center. The quality of the fish was studied in accordance with the standards of the Republic of Kazakhstan and interstate standards. In biological and microbiological studies of all samples of African sharptooth catfish, which received a new type of feed additive "Ceobalyk", the pH values of fish meat in the experimental groups were normal and varied in the range from 6.5 to 6.7. When setting up the reaction with copper sulfate, the reaction was positive. During bacterioscopy, there was a noticeable decrease in the number of microbes (2-3 bacteria less) in comparison with the control. An increase in the indices of the absolute body length and body width was observed by the end of the study. The body length in the experimental group was significantly greater (by 2.12% on average) than that in the control group. In the experimental variant, the average weight of fish was 21.8% higher. As a result of organoleptic studies, it was revealed that the musculature of the fish of the experimental groups was dense and elastic; when pressed on the skin with a finger, a fossa did not remain; the smell was specific, fresh. When tested by cooking, the broth was transparent and aromatic. This feed additive "Ceobalyk" does not cause deviations in the physiological status of fish and can be used as part of the main diet. Keywords: African sharptooth catfish, Escherichia coli, feed additives, microbiological parameters, quality, total viable count.
Research Article | 19 Mar 2021
Characterization of putative pathogenic Shewanella algae isolated from ballast water
Nik Nuraznida Nik Ibrahim, Nurathirah Mat Nasir, Fathul Karim Sahrani, Asmat Ahmad, and Fareed Sairi

Volume-14 | Issue-3 | Article-18 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2021.678-688

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Shewanella algae is ubiquitous in marine-associated environments and has been increasingly recognized as a significant human pathogen that can cause serious infections mainly associated with exposure to seawater and ingestion of raw seafood. This study aimed to isolate and characterize S. algae from ballast water of ships berthed at Port Klang, Malaysia. Ballast water was sampled from nine ships docked at Port Klang, Malaysia. The isolates were identified and characterized based on biochemical and enzymatic properties, 16S rRNA and gyrB sequencing, biofilm formation capability, and antibiotic susceptibility. A total of four S. algae isolates were isolated from four ballast water samples tentatively name Sa-BW1, Sa-BW2, Sa-BW7, and Sa-BW8. All isolates showed positive reaction for cytochrome oxidase, catalase, high tolerance to NaCl (6% and 8%), ability to grow at 42°C, and on Salmonella-Shigella agar. The strains also exhibited β-hemolytic activity on sheep blood and human blood agar, positive reaction for lipase, protease, DNase and gelatinase, strong biofilm adherence capabilities and multiple antibiotic resistances against ampicillin, carbenicillin, cephalothin, colistin, novobiocin, oxacillin, penicillin, rifampicin, and tobramycin which suggested their potential pathogenicity. This study demonstrated the occurrence of putative pathogen S. algae in ballast water of ships docked at Malaysian port. Keywords: ballast water, extracellular enzymes, putative pathogen, Shewanella algae.
Research Article | 19 Mar 2021
Antimicrobial resistance profiles of Escherichia coli from swine farms using different antimicrobials and management systems
Pramualchai Ketkhao, Sukanya Thongratsakul, Pariwat Poolperm, Chaithep Poolkhet, and Patamabhorn Amavisit

Volume-14 | Issue-3 | Article-19 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2021.689-695

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The emerging of antimicrobial-resistant foodborne bacteria is a serious public health concern worldwide. This study was conducted to determine the association between farm management systems and antimicrobial resistance profiles of Escherichia coli isolated from conventional swine farms and natural farms. E. coli isolates were evaluated for the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 17 antimicrobials, extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)- producing enzymes, and plasmid-mediated colistin-resistant genes. Fecal swabs were longitudinally collected from healthy pigs at three stages comprising nursery pigs, fattening pigs, and finishers, in addition to their environments. High-generation antimicrobials, including carbapenem, were selected for the MIC test. DNA samples of colistin-resistant isolates were amplified for mcr-1 and mcr-2 genes. Farm management and antimicrobial applications were evaluated using questionnaires. The detection rate of ESBL-producing E. coli was 17%. The highest resistance rates were observed with trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (53.9%) and colistin (48.5%). All isolates were susceptible to carbapenem. Two large intensive farms that used colistin-supplemented feed showed the highest colistin resistance rates of 84.6% and 58.1%. Another intensive farm that did not use colistin showed a low colistin resistance rate of 14.3%. In contrast, a small natural farm that was free from antimicrobials showed a relatively high resistance rate of 41.8%. The majority of colistin-resistant isolates had MIC values of 8 μg/mL (49%) and ≥16 μg/mL (48%). The genes mcr-1 and mcr-2 were detected at rates of 64% and 38%, respectively, among the colistin-resistant E. coli. Commensal E. coli were relatively sensitive to the antimicrobials used for treating critical human infections. Colistin use was the primary driver for the occurrence of colistin resistance in swine farms having similar conventional management systems. In the natural farm, cross-contamination could just occur through the environment if farm biosecurity is not set up carefully, thus indicating the significance of farm biosecurity risk even in an antimicrobial-free farm. Keywords: antimicrobial resistance, colistin, swine farms, mcr.
Research Article | 20 Mar 2021
Anticancer activity of milk fat rich in conjugated linoleic acid against Ehrlich ascites carcinoma cells in female Swiss albino mice
Abdelrahman M. Abd El-Gawad, Diea G. Abo El-Hassan, Ahmed M. Aboul-Enein, Sherein S. Abdelgayed, Salwa A. Aly, Gamal Esmat, Amr A. Mostafa, Mohamed H. Bakr, Rida A. Ali, and Mahmoud A. Ayoub

Volume-14 | Issue-3 | Article-20 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2021.696-708

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The major conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) isomers have anticancer effect, especially breast cancer cells, inhibits cell growth and induces cell death. Also, CLA has several health benefits in vivo, including antiatherogenesis, antiobesity, and modulation of immune function. The present study aimed to assess the safety and anticancer effects of milk fat CLA against in vivo Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC) in female Swiss albino mice. This was based on acute toxicity study, detection of the tumor growth, life span of EAC bearing hosts, and simultaneous alterations in the hematological, biochemical, and histopathological profiles. One hundred and fifty adult female mice were equally divided into five groups. Groups (1-2) were normal controls, and Groups (3-5) were tumor transplanted mice (TTM) inoculated intraperitoneally with EAC cells (2×106/0.2 mL). Group (3) was (TTM positive control). Group (4) TTM fed orally on balanced diet supplemented with milk fat CLA (40 mg CLA/kg body weight). Group (5) TTM fed orally on balanced diet supplemented with the same level of CLA 28 days before tumor cells inoculation. Blood samples and specimens from liver and kidney were collected from each group. The effect of milk fat CLA on the growth of tumor, life span of TTM, and simultaneous alterations in the hematological, biochemical, and histopathological profiles were examined. For CLA treated TTM, significant decrease in tumor weight, ascetic volume, viable Ehrlich cells accompanied with increase in life span were observed. Hematological and biochemical profiles reverted to more or less normal levels and histopathology showed minimal effects. The present study proved the safety and anticancer efficiency of milk fat CLA and provides a scientific basis for its medicinal use as anticancer attributable to the additive or synergistic effects of its isomers. Keywords: anticancer activity, conjugated linoleic acid, Ehrlich ascites carcinoma, % increase in life span, mean survival time, tumor transplanted mice.
Research Article | 22 Mar 2021
Determination of residues of pesticides, anabolic steroids, antibiotics, and antibacterial compounds in meat products in Oman by liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay
Issa Al-Amri, Isam T. Kadim, Abdulaziz AlKindi, Ahmed Hamaed, Rabea Al-Magbali, Samera Khalaf, Khdija Al-Hosni, and Fazal Mabood

Volume-14 | Issue-3 | Article-21 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2021.709-720

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Meat is a rich source of many nutrients and plays a vital role in human life however, meat safety is one of the top priorities of great concern for consumers today. More than 90% of human exposure to harmful materials is due to consumption of contaminated meat products. This study was designed to compare four valid analytical methods for the determination of organochlorine pesticides 2,4 D (2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid), dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene/ dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane, alachlor, organophosphate, anabolic steroids (progesterone, testosterone, and estrogen), antibiotics (tetracycline, sulfonamides, gentamycin, and cephalexin), antibacterial compounds (Macrolide, β-Lactam, Chloramphenicol, Sulphur drugs, and Gentamicin) residues in 135 beef, buffalo, and sheep meat samples (fresh, frozen meats, minced, and sausage samples) of local, regional, and international brands available in Omani markets. Triplicate meat samples from each brand within each species were extracted with acetonitrile and purified with acetonitrile-saturated n-hexane to remove all impurities. To dry the sample after heating, the residue was passed across a Sep-Pak C18 cartridge for sample cleaning before gas chromatography (GC) (Brand GCMS-QP2010 Plus) coupled with different detectors, including a mass spectrometer or GC-electron capture detector (GC-ECD). Liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC-MS) was also employed for the quantification of the residues in meat products. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits were employed to assess veterinary drug residues, anabolic steroids, and pesticides. The CHARM II instrument was employed to detect chloramphenicol, gentamicin, sulfa-drug, β-lactam, and macrolide residues in meat and meat product samples. A thin-layer chromatographic (TLC) method should be considered as another method of choice to determine concentrations of veterinary drugs and anabolic steroids. The TLC results were validated by LC-MS. The three described methods permit the multi-residue analysis of anabolic steroid residue levels of 0.06-1.89 ppb in meat product samples. There were three violative residues of anabolic steroids in red meat products that were above the maximum residue limits (MRLs). Although, the levels of organochlorine pesticides and antibiotic concentrations in meat products were below the MRLs, the long-term consumption is considered a health hazard and will affect the wellbeing of consumers. The four techniques (GC, high-performance liquid chromatography, ELISA and CHARM II) provided results that were reliable and precise for the detection of chessssmical residues in meat and meat products. Keywords: anabolic steroids, antibiotic, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry, meat products, pesticides, residue.
Research Article | 22 Mar 2021
Prevalence of coliform bacterial contamination in cat drinking water in households in Thailand
Suttiporn Srikullabutr, Panpicha Sattasathuchana, Anusak Kerdsin, and Naris Thengchaisri

Volume-14 | Issue-3 | Article-22 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2021.721-726

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Bacterial contamination of drinking water is a leading cause of gastrointestinal infections. Cats may be at risk of water contamination from feces due to poor sanitation and hygiene. The objectives of the present study were to (1) evaluate the prevalence of coliform bacteria in cat drinking water and (2) identify possible risk factors leading to contamination. Fifty-five drinking water samples were collected from water containers used by cats (median age [range]: 5 years [8 months-15 years]) at their home. Using a sterile syringe, 50 mL water was collected directly from water containers. The water samples were stored in coliform enhancement media for 24 h and then submitted for bacterial culture. The prevalence of fecal coliform contamination of cat drinking water was 67.27% (37/55; 95% confidence interval: 53.29-79.32%). There was no significant difference in the prevalence of coliform bacterial contamination of drinking water by age or gender of the cat or by water container type. However, bacterial contamination differed significantly between shorthaired cats and longhaired cats when comparing Escherichia coli (9/44 [20.45%] vs. 8/11 [72.72%], p<0.001) and Enterobacter spp. (16/44 [36.36%] vs. 9/11 [81.82%], p=0.007). For water that had been in a container longer than 12 h, there were significantly more contaminated tap water samples (16/19 [84.21%]) than contaminated processed water samples (9/17 [52.94%], p=0.047). Coliform contamination in cat drinking water is common and occurs more often in households with longhaired cats. Drinking water for cats should be changed every 12 h, especially for households using tap water. Keywords: animals, cats, coliform, contamination, Escherichia coli, hygiene, prevalence, water.
Research Article | 23 Mar 2021
Comparison of computed tomographic ocular biometry in brachycephalic and non-brachycephalic cats
Kittiporn Yuwatanakorn, Chutimon Thanaboonnipat, Nalinee Tuntivanich, Damri Darawiroj, and Nan Choisunirachon

Volume-14 | Issue-3 | Article-23 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2021.727-733

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Ocular biometry has been used to evaluate ocular parameters; however, several factors need to be considered. In humans, age and sex have been shown to affect ocular biometry. The main factor that affects feline ocular biometry is the head circumference. At present, several reports have revealed that canine ocular biometry differs among dog breeds. However, there are no reports on normal ocular biometry in cats using computed tomography (CT). Therefore, this study aimed to explore feline ocular parameters between brachycephalic (B) and non-brachycephalic (NB) cats using CT and to evaluate the influence of age or sex of cats on ocular biometry. Twenty-four normal cats were divided into two groups: B (n=12) and NB (n=12). Each group had an equal number of designated males and females. CT was performed under mechanical restraint without general anesthesia and intravenous contrast enhancement. Ocular biometry, dimensions of the internal structure, including attenuation numbers and extra-ocular structures, were evaluated and compared. B-cats had a significantly wider globe width (GW) than NB-cats (p<0.05). In addition, globe length (GL) and GW were significantly correlated with the age of the cats. Significant correlation between GL and age was observed in all cats (r=0.4867; p<0.05), NB-cats (r=0.8692; p<0.05), and B-cats (r=0.4367; p<0.05), whereas the correlation between GW and age was observed in B-cats only (r=0.7251; p<0.05). For extra-ocular structures, NB-cats had significantly greater orbital depth than B-cats (p<0.05), and orbital diameter was significantly correlated with age in all cats and B-cats (p<0.05). CT can be used for ocular biometric evaluation in cats with different skull types. GW was wider in B-cats, whereas the orbital depth was greater in NB-cats. Moreover, GW, GL, and orbital diameter were affected by the age of the cats. This information will be useful for further ocular diagnosis and treatment, especially in prosthetic surgical procedures. Keywords: age, biometry, cat, computed tomography, eye, skull.
Research Article | 23 Mar 2021
Moist wound dressing and its application in distant skin flap in cats
Erwin Erwin, Etriwati Etriwati, Rumi Sahara Zamzami, and Cindy Trie Permatasari Hosea

Volume-14 | Issue-3 | Article-24 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2021.734-738

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Wound healing is a dynamic and complex process that requires an appropriate environment to promote healing process. The healing of distant flaps in cats is determined by vascularization, nutrient sufficiency for the cells, and stability of skin flaps. This study aims to evaluate the healing of distant flaps treated with moist wound dressing through subjective and objective observation in five cats with wounds in the forelimb and hindlimb area to determine the time to cut the skin flaps from the donor site. In this study, five Indonesian local cats with wounds of various sizes in the limb were brought to the Veterinary Teaching Hospital. The sterile wound treatment included the administration of anesthesia, wound debridement, and distant flap closure in the thoracic and abdominal area. The distant flap and time to cut the skin flaps from the donor site were evaluated through subjective and objective examinations. The subjective observation on the color of the distant skin flaps showed redness and response to pain on day 3 after surgery, whereas the objective observation, which was based on drug absorption capability and drug effect showed good results. On day 7 after surgery, the skin flaps from the donor site were cut and showed good progress. Overall, moist dressing helps in stabilizing the distant flap, allowing the distant flaps from the donor site to be cut on day 7 after surgery. Keywords: distant flap, moist dressing, objective, subjective.
Research Article | 23 Mar 2021
Mycotoxin profiles of animal feeds in the central part of Thailand: 2015-2020
Suppada Kananub, Prakorn Jala, Sudtisa Laopiem, Alongkot Boonsoongnern, and Arsooth Sanguankiat

Volume-14 | Issue-3 | Article-25 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2021.739-743

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Mycotoxin contamination in animal feeds is of considerable concern because it can affect animal health systems. As a result of contamination in the food chain, humans can indirectly come into contact with mycotoxins. The present study aimed to present mycotoxin contamination patterns in animal feeds from 2015 to 2020 and elucidate associations between the type of feed and the type of ingredient. Data were summarized from the records of the Kamphaeng Saen Veterinary Diagnosis Center from 2015 to 2020, which comprised the analyses of aflatoxin (AFL), zearalenone (ZEA), T-2 toxin (T-2), fumonisin (FUM), and deoxynivalenol (DON) contamination in feed ingredients, complete feeds, and unclassified feeds. Descriptive statistics, Chi-squared tests, and Fisher's exact tests were used for data analysis. ZEA was prevalent in animal feeds. The prevalence of each mycotoxin was constant from 2015 to 2020. Approximately 20-30% of samples were positive for AFL and FUM. The highest contamination was ZEA, which was found in 50% of the samples, and the occurrence of T-2 and DON was <10%. AFL significantly contaminated complete feeds more than feed ingredients. Feed ingredients were related to mycotoxin contaminations. The highest levels of AFL, FUM, and DON contamination occurred in 2017. The data in this year consisted mostly of soybean, corn, and rice bran. The number of positive samples of all five mycotoxins was constant from 2015 to 2020, but the occurrence of ZEA was the highest. Mycotoxins in feedstuffs are significantly related to the type of feed and the type of ingredient. Keywords: complete feeds, compound feeds, contamination, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, mycotoxin.
Research Article | 23 Mar 2021
Agro-industrial byproducts in rabbit food: Case of the complex of detoxified apricot kernel cake and dehydrated tomato pulp
Yasmine Arbouche, Achour Mennani, Lamya Ouzzir, Rafik Arbouche, and Fodil Arbouche

Volume-14 | Issue-3 | Article-26 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2021.744-750

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The use of agro-industrial byproducts as an unconventional source of raw materials for monogastric feed is one possible solution. This study aimed to determine the effects of incorporating detoxified apricot kernel meal (DAKM) as a substitute for soybean meal and dehydrated tomato pulp (DTP) as a substitute for alfalfa hay on the local rabbit fattening. A total of 120 white strain rabbits, weaned at 33 days, were randomly assigned to four groups of 30. The rabbits in each group were ringed, placed in cages at 6 rabbits/cage, and fed according to DAKM and DTP incorporation rates (0%, 30%, 40%, and 60%). The weights at 77 days were improved (p<0.05) with unchanged mean daily intakes. The vast majority of slaughter parameters and carcass characteristics improved. The chemical composition of the meat constituents improved significantly, with a 60% increase in the protein content of the batch (26.55% vs. 28.53%), 38% reduction in the total feed cost, and 40 DA saved for each kilogram of feed consumed per rabbit. The relative economic efficiency improved in proportion to the substitution rates of soybean meal by DAKM and alfalfa hay by DTP. Substituting DAKM and DTP, as byproducts of agro-industrial processing, for up to 60% induced satisfactory results in rabbit fattening. Therefore, it would be more insightful to increase the incorporation rates to determine the optimal threshold. Keywords: agro-industrial byproducts, apricot kernel cake, rabbit fattening, tomato pulp, zootechnical performances.
Research Article | 24 Mar 2021
Genetic variation and phylogenetic analysis of Indonesian indigenous catfish (baung fish) based on mitochondrial 12S rRNA gene
Rini Widayanti, Ken Ayik Kusumaastuti, Joana Martha Novi, Fadila Khairuna Adani, Catrine Relia Patrecia Gultom, Ayuning Devina Prastiti, Herjuno Ari Nugroho, and Suhendra Pakpahan

Volume-14 | Issue-3 | Article-27 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2021.751-757

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Baung fish is an essential commodity in Indonesia; however, few studies have explored the genetic diversity of Indonesian catfish. Thus, this study aimed to analyze the genetic variation and phylogenetic relationships among Indonesian catfish based on the mitochondrial 12S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene. In total, 28 catfish were collected from nine rivers in seven provinces and from the Indian Ocean. Catfish genomes were obtained from epaxial and hepaxial muscle samples. The mitochondrial 12S rRNA gene was amplified by polymerase chain reaction using a pair of primers (Baung12SF and Baung12SR). The 12S rRNA sequences were analyzed using MEGA X to determine genetic variation and phylogenetic relationships. In total, 178 variation sites in the 12S rRNA gene were substituted among Indonesian catfish. The genetic distance between all Indonesian catfish samples was 0.1-16.0%. The closest genetic distance was between MP and PM catfish, whereas the farthest genetic distances were between BF and EM and PD and EM. For the entire population, based on mean diversity calculations, the number of base substitutions per site was 0.08. Indonesian catfish were divided into four clades based on the 12S rRNA gene. The catfish MP, KR, PM, MS, BB, and KS were grouped with Hemibagrus nemurus, the catfish EM was grouped with Mystus vittatus, the catfish BSBJ was grouped with Pangasius pangasius, and the catfish PD and BF were grouped with Netuma thalassina. Keywords: 12S ribosomal RNA gene, baung fish, Hemibagrus nemurus, Indonesian catfish, phylogenetic.
Research Article | 24 Mar 2021
Contact rate and risk factors of classical swine fever disease in commercial and smallholder pig farms, Karanganyar, Central Java, Indonesia
Rama Dharmawan, Bambang Sumiarto, Hendra Wibawa, Ira Pramastuti, Sutiyarmo Sutiyarmo, and Bagoes Poermadjaja

Volume-14 | Issue-3 | Article-28 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2021.758-763

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Classical swine fever (CSF) is one of the primary diseases in animals in Indonesia, particularly areas that supply pig meat to the country, such as Karanganyar district, Central Java. The government has tried to prevent and control the disease by vaccination, but it has not yet given effective results. Therefore, another attempt to prevent the recurrence of CSF cases is to apply biosecurity in pig farms by looking for risk factors associated with on-farm and off-farm contact. This study aims to determine the contact rate and investigate the risk factors associated with on-farm and off-farm contact in commercial and smallholder pig farms in Karanganyar, Central Java, Indonesia, in the context of controlling CSF disease. This study used a cross-sectional study design in which the pig farm was designed as the observed epidemiological unit. The contact structure data were conducted by sampling using a two-stage random method. We selected Karanganyar district because it is the center of a pig farm in the Central Java Province and has many CSF cases in several years before. The study was conducted for more or less 1 month from August to September 2019. The contact data were collected from 37 smallholder farms and 27 commercial farms within interviews. Risk factors for contact with pigs were analyzed using logistic regression using the Statistix Program version 8.0.(www.statistix.com). In comparison to smallholder farms, commercial farms had 2.38 and 3.32 times higher contact rate in outside farms and inside farms, respectively. Two factors increased the risk for on-farm contacts including commercials type farm (p=0.0012; odds ratio [OR]=8.32) with contact rate of 1.24 times/day and the time interval of CSF vaccination for 1-3 months (p=0.0013; OR=8.43) with contact rate of 0.98 times/day, and three factors increased the risk for off-farm contacts including the commercial farm type (p=0.012; OR=4.88) with 1.50 contact/day, the time interval of CSF vaccination for 1-3 months (p=0.036; OR=3.83) with 1.30 contact/day, and farmers with experience in pig husbandry <5 years (p=0.075; OR=3.56) with 1.13 contact/day. This study shows that commercial farms and short CSF vaccination intervals increased the risk of either off-farm or on-farm contacts. The contact structure of pig farms in Karanganyar district is similar to that in other areas in Indonesia. Reducing the risk of contacts either outside or inside the pig farms is essential to prevent disease transmission. Enhancing communication and education to pig farmers and surveillance is also necessary to prevent such diseases in pigs. Keywords: classical swine fever, contact rate, odds ratio, off-farms, on-farms, risk factors.
Research Article | 25 Mar 2021
The first molecular identification of benzimidazole resistance in Haemonchus contortus from goats in Thailand
Opal Pitaksakulrat, Monticha Chaiyasaeng, Atchara Artchayasawat, Chatanun Eamudomkarn, Sorawat Thongsahuan, and Thidarut Boonmars

Volume-14 | Issue-3 | Article-29 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2021.764-768

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Haemonchus contortus is one of the major trichostrongyloid nematodes affecting small ruminant production worldwide, especially in tropical and subtropical regions. Adult H. contortus suck the blood from the host abomasum leading to anemia and often death in heavily infected animals. The mainstay of parasitic control is an anthelmintic drug, but long-term drug use may cause drug resistance. The aim of this study was to examine benzimidazole resistance in H. contortus of goats from different regions in Thailand by detecting the frequency of the F200Y polymorphism in the β-tubulin isotype 1 gene. A total of 121 H. contortus adults were obtained from 31 naturally infected out of 37 slaughtered goats from city abattoirs in five regions of Thailand. The frequency of the F200Y polymorphism in the β-tubulin isotype 1 gene was detected following the allele-specific polymerase chain reaction protocol. The overall genotype frequencies in Thailand were homozygous resistant (RR: 24%), heterozygous (SR: 44.6%), and homozygous susceptible (SS: 31.4%). The allele frequencies were resistant allele (R: 46%) and susceptible allele (S: 54%). The R allele frequency and the RR genotype varied from 30% to 65% and 0% to 43.9%, respectively. The frequency of R alleles was significantly higher in the southern region (0.65) as compared to northern (0.30, p=0.001), western (0.38, p=0.04), and central regions (0.30, p=0.03). The RR genotype was also significantly higher in the southern region (43.9%) versus the northern (0 %, p=0.001), western (11.8%, p=0.012), and central regions (17.4%, p=0.001). This is the first study of the detection of single-nucleotide polymorphisms in codon 200 of the β-tubulin isotype 1 gene of H. contortus from goats in Thailand. These findings are essential and imply that an integrated approach is needed for issues such as drug treatment, farm management, prevention, and control strategies. This is of interest to farmers, veterinarians, and the department of livestock. Keywords: benzimidazole resistance, Haemonchus contortus, single-nucleotide polymorphism in codon 200 β-tubulin isotype 1 gene.
Research Article | 26 Mar 2021
Effect of formaldehyde and urea contaminated feed exposure into the liver of young and adult pigeons (Columba livia)
Imam Hasan, Munmun Pervin, Md. Alamgir Kobir, Sakib Hossain Sagor, and Mohammad Rabiul Karim

Volume-14 | Issue-3 | Article-30 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2021.769-776

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Nowadays, toxic chemical contaminants in food are a major food safety problem in Bangladesh. Among toxic food contaminants, formalin is used to preserve fruit, vegetables, and fish, where urea is used for the whitening of rice and puffed rice. The purpose of this study was to determine the biochemical and histopathological effects on the liver of young and adult pigeons after exposure to formalin and urea contaminated feed. A total of 15 young and 15 adult pigeons were divided into control group, formaldehyde exposed group (2.5 mL formalin/kg feed), and urea exposed (1 g/kg feed) group. Each group consisted of five pigeons. After the experimentation procedures, the blood samples were collected for biochemical study, and the liver tissue was collected for histomorphological study. The statistical analysis was performed using the Student's t-test, and p<0.05 was considered as statistically significant. The aspartate transaminase serum hepatic enzyme was significantly increased in both formalin and urea exposed young and adult pigeons than the control pigeons. In control pigeons, parenchymal hepatocytes and non-parenchymal cells are regularly arranged. However, histological observation of the liver of formalin and urea exposed young, and adult pigeons showed coagulation necrosis with infiltration of many inflammatory cells around the central and portal veins. The necrotic areas are more extensive with massive infiltration of inflammatory cells in the liver of formalin-treated pigeons than the urea treated pigeons. The present study results show that low concentrations of formalin and urea in feed induced liver lesions in pigeons in different extents and indicate that exposure to toxic chemicals may affect homeostasis of the liver and cause liver injury or act as a co-factor for liver disease. Keywords: birds, formaldehyde, histopathology, liver, toxic food contaminants, urea.

Volume-14 | Issue-3 | Article-31 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2021.777-783

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Listeria monocytogenes is a ubiquitous, intracellular pathogen which has been implicated as a cause of several foodborne outbreaks. This study aimed to generate information on the prevalence and antibiotic resistance profile of Listeria species isolated from seafood. A total of 400 samples of fresh fish, 100 samples of dry fish and 200 samples each of crustaceans and mollusks were collected from the fish catchment areas. All the samples were subjected to isolation and identification of Listeria spp. by two-step enrichment in UVM broth and plating on selective agar media (PALCAM) and then subjected to molecular characterization. L. monocytogenes isolates obtained during the study were subjected to serotyping by multiplex polymerase chain reaction. The isolates were also subjected to antibiotic sensitivity test. The prevalence of L. monocytogenes in seafoods in the present study was 0.55%. The isolates of L. monocytogenes were found to possess all virulence genes, namely, iap, hlyA, actA, prfA, plcA, and inlA. All the isolates belonged to serotype 4b. The occurrence of Listeria innocua was found to be more and was detected in 16.77% of seafoods samples. Antibiotic sensitivity test revealed that all isolates were resistant to cefixime but were sensitive to almost all other commonly used antibiotics. The presence of Listeria spp. in raw seafood samples augments the need for implementation of good hygienic practices during the handling and processing of seafoods to safeguard the health of the consumers. Keywords: Antibiotic, Kerala, Listeria, seafoods, serotype.

Volume-14 | Issue-3 | Article-32 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2021.784-787

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Reproductive disorders keep the beef cattle population in Jepara Regency, Central Java, Indonesia, from increasing. Ovarian hypofunction and repeat breeding are the most common reproductive disorders, leading to large economic losses for traditional breeders. However, the impact of poor reproductive performance among traditional breeders is not well-known. This study aimed to investigate the reproductive performance of beef cattle with ovarian hypofunction and repeat breeding in Jepara Regency. We determined cattle's reproductive status by rectal examination and anamnesis, assessing reproductive performance in 28 cows with repeat breeding and 27 cows with ovarian hypofunction. The following parameters were measured: Postpartum estrous (PPE), days open (DO), service per conception (S/C), and calving interval (CI). The data came from livestock records from animal recording cards, iSIKHNAS, and estimated births from the insemination date that produced a pregnancy. In beef cattle diagnosed with ovarian hypofunction, S/C, PPE, DO, and CI were 1.28, 257 days, 265 days, and 18 months, respectively. The length of CI caused by long PPE may be due to improper nutrition and calf weaning delays. In beef cattle with repeat breeding, S/C, PPE, DO, and CI were 4.15, 106 days, 210 days, and 16 months, respectively. The length of CI was caused by long DO due to pregnancy failure at the first estrus. Hypofunction and repeat breeding reduce the reproductive performance of beef cattle in the Jepara Regency. The cows' health conditions pre- and postpartum can be optimized by providing high-quality feed to enhance reproductive performance. Keywords: beef cattle, Jepara Regency, ovarian hypofunction, repeat breeding, reproductive disorders, reproductive performance.
Research Article | 29 Mar 2021
Aflatoxicosis in Pekin duckling and the effects of treatments with lycopene and silymarin
Sahar M. El-Sheshtawy, Amal F. El-Zoghby, Nesreen A. Shawky, and Dalia H. Samak

Volume-14 | Issue-3 | Article-33 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2021.788-793

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Aflatoxins (AFs) are potent toxic metabolites produced from Aspergillus species. Whose existence in poultry ration leads to drastic economic losses, notably in duck, as the most susceptible poultry species. This study aimed to determine tissue residues of AFs, alterations in selected clinical chemistry variables in serum, mainly during the exposure period, and lycopene and silymarin's possible roles as herbal treatments against aflatoxicosis in Pekin duckling. The study used one hundred and twenty one-day-old Pekin ducklings and classified them into four groups comprising 30 ducklings in each group. The control group (G1) ducklings were fed a mycotoxin-free ration, and G2 received a naturally contaminated ration with 30 ppb of AFs. G3 and G4 consumed contaminated rations with AFs with 30 ppb for 2 weeks and were treated with lycopene 100 mg/kg or silymarin 600 mg/kg/food, respectively, for 10 days. Serum activities of alanine transaminase and alkaline phosphatase (ALP), glutamyl transferase, ALP, total protein and albumin creatinine and uric acid concentrations, oxidant/antioxidant parameters (malondialdehyde [MDA], total antioxidant capacity (TAC), glutathione S-transferase (GST), and catalase [CAT]), and hepatic AFs residue were determined. Lycopene and silymarin were used for the treatment of aflatoxicosis for another 10 days. Hepatic and kidney parameters were elevated in the AFs intoxicated group and reduced in the lycopene- and silymarin-treated groups. They had elevated MDA and AFs residues with decreased antioxidant parameters (TAC, GST, and CAT) in the AFs group. At the same time, treatment with lycopene or silymarin had reversed the action of AFs on MDA, elevated the hepatic residue, and improved antioxidant activity. Lycopene and silymarin, with their potent antioxidant activity, can be used to reverse the harmful effects of AFs on hepatic and kidney tissue. Keywords: aflatoxins, aspergillus, creatinine, hepatic, kidney, lycopene, mycotoxicosis, oxidative stress, pekin duckling, residue, silymarin.
Research Article | 30 Mar 2021
Natural oil blend formulation as an anti-African swine fever virus agent in in vitro primary porcine alveolar macrophage culture
Quang Lam Truong, Lan Thi Nguyen, Haig Yousef Babikian, Rajeev Kumar Jha, Hoa Thi Nguyen, and Thanh Long To

Volume-14 | Issue-3 | Article-34 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2021.794-802

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African swine fever is one of the severe pathogens of swine. It has a significant impact on production and economics. So far, there are no known remedies, such as vaccines or drugs, reported working successfully. In the present study, the natural oil blend formulation's (NOBF) efficacy was evaluated against ASFV in vitro using porcine alveolar macrophages (PAMs) cells of swine. The capacity of NOBF against the ASFV was tested in vitro. The NOBF combines Eucalyptus globulus, Pinus sylvestris, and Lavandula latifolia. We used a 2-fold serial dilution to test the NOBF formulation dose, that is, 105 HAD50/mL, against purified lethal dose of African swine in primary PAMs cells of swine. The PAM cells survival, real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test, and hemadsorption (HAD) observation were performed to check the NOBF efficacy against ASFV. The in vitro trial results demonstrated that NOBF up to dilution 13 or 0.000625 mL deactivates the lethal dose 105 HAD50 of ASFV. There was no HAD (Rosetta formation) up to dilution 12 or 0.00125 mL of NOBF. The Ct value obtained by running real-time PCR of the NOBF group at 96 h post-infection was the same as the initial value or lower (25), whereas the Ct value of positive controls increased several folds (17.84). The in vitro trial demonstrated that NOBF could deactivate the ASFV. The NOBF has the potential to act as anti-ASFV agent in the field. The next step is to conduct in vivo level trial to determine its efficacy. Keywords: African swine fever virus, in vitro trials, natural oil blend formulation, primary porcine alveolar macrophages cells.
Research Article | 30 Mar 2021
Comparative evaluation of the immunodominant proteins of Brucella abortus for the diagnosis of cattle brucellosis
Mohandoss Nagalingam, Thaslim J. Basheer, Vinayagamurthy Balamurugan, Rajeswari Shome, S. Sowjanya Kumari, G. B. Manjunatha Reddy, Bibek Ranjan Shome, Habibur Rahman, Parimal Roy, J. Joseph Kingston, and R. K. Gandham

Volume-14 | Issue-3 | Article-35 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2021.803-812

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The present serodiagnosis of brucellosis in livestock is based on the whole cell or smooth lipopolysaccharide of the Brucella organism in which specificity is hampered by the cross-reactivity, especially with the antibodies against Yersinia enterocolitica O:9 organism. The problem can be addressed by screening for better immunodominant antigens. Hence, the present study was undertaken to screen protein antigens of Brucella abortus for their diagnostic potential in cattle brucellosis. Protein antigens of B. abortus (n=10) non-reactive to antibodies against Y. enterocolitica O:9 were selected, expressed in Escherichia coli, assessed the reactivity of expressed recombinant proteins by Western blot, standardized indirect-enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for detecting Brucella antibodies in cattle serum, and comparative evaluation was done. All the selected protein antigens were expressed and in the Western blot with Brucella antibodies positive cattle serum, six recombinant (Brucella protein 26 [BP26], Cu-Zn Superoxide dismutase [SodC], B. abortus I-1885, Serine protease, Bacterioferritin, and Brucella Lumazine Synthase [BLS]) proteins showed reaction whereas none of the proteins showed reactivity with Brucella negative cattle serum. ELISA has been done using known Brucella positive and negative cattle sera samples (n=113 each) in which the performance of recombinant proteins in diagnosing brucellosis was in the order of BP26 > BLS > SodC followed by rest of the proteins. BP26 based ELISA was found to be better with area under the curve as 0.953, and diagnostic sensitivity, diagnostic specificity, and Youden's index of 90.27%, 95.58%, and 0.8584, respectively, with the excellent agreement (k=0.85). BP26 could be a potential diagnostic antigen among the immunodominant proteins of B. abortus in ruling out Y. enterocolitica O:9 infection while diagnosing brucellosis in cattle herds. Keywords: Brucella abortus, Brucella lumazine synthase, Brucella protein26, cattle brucellosis, Cu-Zn superoxide dismutase, Yersinia enterocolitica O:9.

Volume-14 | Issue-3 | Article-36 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2021.813-819

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Salmonellosis is an important food-borne and zoonotic disease with high morbidity and mortality rates. The objectives of this study were to isolate, serotype, and genetically characterize Salmonella spp. from Zarqa river and King Talal dam waters, vegetables irrigated by such waters, and manure of poultry and livestock farms located in the Zarqa river basin in Jordan. In addition, certain virulence factors and antimicrobial resistance patterns of isolated Salmonella strains were determined. A total of 250 samples were cultured using routine microbiological methods. Suspected Salmonella spp. were identified based on colony morphology and confirmed using biochemical and molecular methods. Virulence genes including invA, stn, and pCT plasmid were detected using multiplex PCR. Phylogenetic analysis was performed using pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE). In total, 32/250 (12.8%) Salmonella spp. isolates were recovered from different sources. Of these, the most common serotype was Salmonella subspecies 1 (23 isolates), followed by Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium (4 isolates), Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi (3 isolates), and finally Salmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis (2 isolates). The PFGE indicated that Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium isolated from poultry manure and from parsley were closely related (84.6%). Salmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis isolated from the dam water was closely related to Salmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis isolated from spearmint (73.8%). Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi isolated from the river and dam water were 100% related to Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi isolated from lettuce. In the antimicrobial sensitivity test, 14 out of 32 (43.8%) isolated Salmonella strains were resistant to two or more of the major antimicrobial agent groups. However, the majority of isolates were sensitive to ceftriaxone, ciprofloxacin, cefuroxime, and gentamicin (97%, 93.8%, and 87.5%, 84.4%, respectively). All isolates were resistant to erythromycin and amoxicillin. Results of this study indicate a serious potential threat to public health associated with consuming leafy green vegetables grown on the banks of Zarqa river and its dam because of widespread Salmonella spp. contamination. Appropriate monitoring of irrigation water must be applied to reduce the possibility of cross-contamination. Keywords: Salmonella spp., zoonosis, contaminated river and dam waters, vegetables.
Research Article | 31 Mar 2021
Wound healing properties of Gliricidia sepium leaves from Indonesia and the Philippines in rats (Rattus norvegicus)
Aulaani'am Aulanni'am, Krismal Marchel Ora, Nisa Ain Ariandini, Dyah Kinasih Wuragil, Fajar Shodiq Permata, Wibi Riawan, and Ma Asuncion Guiang Beltran

Volume-14 | Issue-3 | Article-37 | https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2021.820-824

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Gliricidia sepium is a medium-sized leguminous plant found widely in tropical to subtropical areas. It has been used as a medicinal ingredient and in rodenticides by local communities in both Indonesia and the Philippines. This study aimed to investigate the wound healing effects of an ointment containing G. sepium leaves on inflammatory cells using a rat model. We also determined its effect on the expression of interleukin (IL) 6 and IL-1β. We used 16 Wistar male rats aged approximately 2 months and weighing 150-200 g. They were divided into four treatment groups (T1, positive control; T2, negative control; T3, wounds treated with G. sepium from Indonesia; and T4, wounds treated with G. sepium from the Philippines), and the ointment therapies were applied to wounds for 3 days. Hematoxylin and eosin staining was performed to examine the inflammatory cells microscopically. IL-1β and IL-6 expression were observed immunohistochemically. G. sepium leaves significantly (p<0.05) decreased the number of inflammatory cells, and the expression of IL-1β and IL-6 in the group treated with Indonesian G. sepium leaves was higher than that in the group treated with G. sepium leaves from the Philippines. The leaves contain flavonoids, saponins, and tannins, which act as anti-inflammatory agents to enhance the wound healing process. Our findings suggest that G. sepium leaves from both the Philippines and Indonesia possess wound healing properties. Keywords: flavonoid, Gliricidia sepium leaves, herbal plants, saponin, tannin, wound healing.