Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is a highly contagious viral disease that endangers livestock and the environment with significant economic consequences. This study aimed to validate the inactivation of the Indonesian isolate of foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) with various formaldehyde concentration.  The experiment started with FMDV being adapted on BHK-21 cells until cytopathic effects (CPE) appeared. The biological titer of the virus was determined using the 50% tissue culture infectious dose (TCID50) assay. The virus was inactivated by exposing the isolate to different formaldehyde (FA) concentrations (0.025%, 0.05%, 0.1%, and 0.2%) at 37°C for 24 h, and residual infectivity was assessed using CPE scoring of reinoculated BHK-21 cells.  72 h post-inoculation, the virulence of the FMDV isolate was indicated by complete CPE on BHK-21 monolayer cells, with a TCID50 value of 109/mL; CPE scoring did not signify significant differences (p < 0.05) among 0.025%, 0.05%, 0.1%, 0.2% FA, and the negative control. All treatment groups showed significant differences (p < 0.05) from the positive control (C+). FA concentrations inactivated the FMDV isolate under the given conditions. 0.025% and 0.05% FA continued to display CPE through the third passage, while 0.2% FA did not significantly differ from 0.1% FA (p > 0.05). 0.1% FA is the optimal concentration for safely and effectively inactivating FMDV.  All of the formaldehyde concentrations can completely inactivate the FMDV isolate, with the most optimal and safe concentration being 0.1%. 

The African swine fever virus (ASFV), spanning 170–193 kb, contains over 200 proteins, including p72 and p30, which play crucial roles in the virus’s entry and expression. This study investigated the capability of detecting ASFV early through the analysis of genes B646L and CP204L, encoding p72 and p30 antigen proteins, by employing ASFV, diagnosis, immunohistochemistry (IHC), quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), and IHC techniques.  Samples were taken from both experimentally and field-infected pigs to evaluate the effectiveness of qPCR and IHC in detecting ASFV. Twenty-two infected pigs were necropsied at 3-, 5-, 7-, and 9-day post-infection to obtain the first set of samples, collecting anticoagulated blood and tissues each time. The thymus, spleen, and lymph nodes were processed by fixing in 10% formalin, paraffin-blocking, and undergoing IHC staining. Forty anticoagulated blood samples were collected from clinically infected sows at a pig farm for the second batch of samples. Based on the lowest Ct values, three blood samples were diluted fivefold for qPCR DNA testing, and their tissues were used for both qPCR and IHC analyses.  At 1-day post-infection, p30-qPCR identified more ASFV-positive pigs and measured lower Ct values compared to p72-qPCR. At later time points, both methods showed similar levels of detection. ASFV was detected earlier and with lower Ct values in lymphoid tissues using p30-qPCR compared to p72-qPCR, particularly in the spleen and lymph nodes. In a field outbreak study, p30-qPCR demonstrated superior sensitivity and lower Ct values when detecting ASFV in blood samples compared to p72-qPCR.  The early detection of the CP204L gene encoding p30 and its corresponding antigenic protein in ASFV diagnosis compared to the gene encoding p72 suggests that CP204L and p30 are promising candidates for the development of more effective antigen and antibody testing methods. 

Bovine mastitis is an inflammation of the mammary gland of dairy cattle that causes economic losses due to poor quantity and quality of milk. The extensive or incorrect use of antibiotics has increased in the veterinary field, leading to the emergence of antibiotic-resistant pathogens worldwide. This study aimed to investigate bovine mastitis bacterial pathogens in Sakon Nakhon, Thailand.  A total of 35 dairy farms were screened for clinical and subclinical mastitis using the California Mastitis Test and clinical examination. Polymerase chain reaction was used to characterize bacterial species-induced mastitis (380 isolates) in cattle and antimicrobial resistance genes, and disk diffusion and broth microdilution were used to characterize antimicrobial susceptibility.  The prevalence of Staphylococcus epidermidis (38.10%; 32/84)-induced mastitis in cattle was considerably high, followed by Streptococcus agalactiae (33.33%), Streptococcus uberis (25%), Klebsiella pneumoniae (8.33%), and Staphylococcus aureus (4.76%). In this study, Staphylococcus spp. isolates demonstrated 100% susceptibility to cefoxitin, and no antibiotic-resistance genes were identified. Tetracycline (TET) and macrolide-resistant genes of Streptococcus spp. revealed that tetM was predominant in 55.63% (79/142), followed by tetS + erm(B) (16.90%). Antibiotic susceptibility tests revealed the following resistance profiles to bacterial species: TET (85.92%), clindamycin (29.58%), erythromycin (15.49%), levofloxacin (14.08%), and penicillin (0%). Gram-negative bacterial isolates (K. pneumoniae [8.33%], Klebsiella variicola [2.38%], Klebsiella quasipneumoniae [1.19%], and Escherichia coli [1.19%]) were recovered and still susceptible to meropenem (100%), ceftazidime (97.06%), ceftriaxone (79.41%), and ciprofloxacin (79.41%).  This result suggested that mastitis pathogens in this area were susceptible to most antimicrobials, with the exception of streptococci against TET. In this study, limited data were available including one from small-holder dairy farms and study only dairy farms in Sakon Nakhon, Thailand. So, more farms should be included in the future studies. 

The “Five Freedoms” concept has shaped the development and implementation of animal welfare assessments. This study aimed to analyze the determinants that impact the understanding of animal welfare among individuals who own cats in Banyuwangi, East Java, Indonesia.  Questionnaires and interviews were used in this study to gather data from cat owners. One hundred cat owners in Banyuwangi Regency took part in the study. The classification considered factors such as gender, age, education level, occupation, income, and number of cats. The questionnaire passed both validity and reliability tests and was thus deemed suitable for data measurement. The Chi-square test was employed to investigate relationships within the dataset.  A statistically significant correlation (p < 0.05) was established between cat owners’ level of education, occupation, monthly household income, and their grasp of animal welfare, with the number of cats in their household being a determinant factor. Some cat owners in Banyuwangi undervalue veterinarians’ role in treating and preventing feline health issues. The cat owners’ understanding of animal welfare was unaffected by their age or gender. 59% of the cat owners had a low understanding level, 22% had a moderate understanding level, and 19% had a high understanding level.  In Banyuwangi Regency, 59% of cat owners lack understanding of animal welfare concerns. An owner’s educational background, job, income, and whether they own a cat impact their comprehension of animal welfare principles. Limited awareness of animal welfare and veterinarians’ roles exists in Indonesia. It is crucial to educate government officials, veterinarians, and regional leaders about animal welfare for the sake of sustainability. A complete understanding of this topic demands rigorous research, comprehensive studies, and reproducibility. Equally important is effective publicity for the cat population. 

Ruminant enteric methane (CH4) is one of the largest sources of greenhouse gases that contribute to global warming. To minimize environmental harm caused by ruminants’ CH4 production, natural substances can be used to suppress it. Chitosan from crustacean sources had been known to obstruct CH4 generation in the rumen. About 18% of silkworm pupae is chitin, but little is known about the impact of silkworm pupae chitosan on rumen methanogenesis. This study investigated the efficacy of the silkworm chitosan extraction method and its impact on rumen fermentation, methanogenesis, and microbial growth in vitro.  This study employed a randomized complete block design featuring five treatments and four batches for rumen incubation as the blocking factor. In this study, five treatments were implemented: Control (CO) (basal diet with no added chitosan), basal diet with 6% chitosan from the Chinese Silkworm strain 804 (CHI804), basal diet with 6% chitosan from the PS 01 Hybrid Silkworm strain (CHIPS01), basal diet with 6% chitosan from the Hybrid F1 Japanese 102 × Chinese 202 races (CHIJC02), and basal diet with 6% commercial shrimp shell chitosan as the positive control (CHICOMM). The in vitro experiments assessed digestibility, pH, total gas generation, CH4 production, ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N), and short-chain fatty acid levels, along with microbial population. Data were analyzed using a general linear model followed by Duncan’s test when applicable.  A significant effect on dry matter digestibility (DMD), total gas production, CH4, NH3-N, and rumen microbial populations (Methanogens, Ruminoccocus albus, Ruminoccocus flavefaciens, Selonomonas ruminantium, Butyrivibrio fibrisolvens, Streptoccocus bovis, Prevotella spp., and Bacteroides spp.) was observed (p < 0.05). The extracted chitosan (CHIJC02) used in this study exhibited a similar quality to that of commercial chitosan (CHICOMM). CHI804 treatment could reduce gas production, NH3-N production, and B. fibrisolvens population significantly (p < 0.05), while CHIJC02 could reduce CH4 production, methanogen population, acetate (C2) production, and increase propionate (C3) production significantly (p < 0.05). CHIJC02 and CHICOMM treatments could also increase the population of R. flavefaciens, S. ruminantium, and Bacteroides spp. significantly (p < 0.05). Chitosan addition significantly (p < 0.05) reduced DMD but did not impact organic matter digestibility or pH.  The extracted chitosan mimics commercial chitosan in physico-chemical properties. Chitosan derived from Japanese and Chinese F1 hybrid silkworm strains demonstrated superior capacity for inhibiting CH4 generation compared to commercial chitosan. The quality and effects on methanogenesis, rumen fermentation, and rumen microbial populations can differ depending on the origin of chitosan. 

In avian and other species, mucins (MUCs) play a crucial role in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT), and constitute a large group of O-glycosylated glycoproteins, are glycoconjugate proteins. MUCs present in two forms: (1) membrane-attached on cell surfaces to repel external threats and (2) detachable, gel-forming proteins in the soluble form. In quail GIT, the specific types of MUCs that are expressed remain largely unknown. We investigated the expression of MUC1 and MUC4 MUCs in the GIT of Iraqi common quails and conducted network and structural analyses of all known MUC types across quail breeds.  Histological and gene expression analyses of MUC1 and MUC4 were conducted using fresh small intestine and large intestine samples from 10 quails. Using the STRING Database, Chimera software, and PrankWeb-ligand binding site prediction tool, network and structural analyses of all reported types of quail MUCs were conducted.  Most intestinal MUCs in quails were acidic, with few neutral MUCs detectable through Alcian blue and periodic acid-schiff stains. Acidic MUCs were more expressed in the duodenum, ileum, cecum, and colon, whereas neutral MUCs were more expressed in the jejunum. MUC1 and MUC4 messenger RNA expression was significantly higher in the jejunum and colon than in the duodenum and ileum. The analysis of the network revealed that MUC 1, 15, 16, and 24 formed homologous networks, while MUC 2, 4, 5, and 6 formed heterologous networks. Specific MUC combinations, including MUC5A-MUC6, MUC5A-MUC5B, and MUC5B-MUC6, show higher intermolecular hydrogen bond formation affinity. MUC15, MUC16, and MUC24 showed minimal interaction with other MUC types. Among the analyzed MUCs, MUC5B, and MUC6 had the highest probability for binding, while MUC2, MUC4, and MUC5A showed lower probabilities despite greater numbers of binding sites.  This study’s results offer significant insights into quails’ MUCs’ composition, expression, network interactions, and binding sites, advancing knowledge of MUC-related processes in gastrointestinal physiology and their potential connection to gastrointestinal diseases. 

To combat enteric infections and antibiotic resistance in the poultry industry, researchers seek alternatives such as probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics as growth promoters. Synbiotics support probiotic growth through the supply of essential nutrients. The study’s objectives were to assess the most effective delivery methods for synbiotics and evaluate their growth, histomorphometric, and hematological impacts on Cobb-500 broilers.  Two studies, independently conducted, employed a completely randomized design. One hundred and eighty viable eggs in the first trial were assigned to three groups: Control (T1), sterile water (T2), and synbiotic in sterile water (T3). On the 21st day of hatching, hatchability, day-old body weights, and ileum samples for histomorphometric analysis were recorded. In the second trial, out of 500 viable eggs, 200 eggs were fed in ovo with synbiotics (PoultryStar® sol, Biomin Singapore Pte Ltd, Singapore) on 17.5 days and 300 were set aside without in ovo injection. The treatments were control (T1), in water synbiotic (T2), in ovo synbiotic (T3), combination of in ovo synbiotic and synbiotic in feed (T4), and synbiotic in feed only (T5). On 21 and 42 days, blood, ileum, and visceral organ samples were collected for laboratory analysis. Data on weight gain, daily feed intake, and water consumption were recorded for 42 days.  The initial experiment’s results revealed a decrease in hatchability, slight weight increase, and significant intestinal morphological changes with the use of an in ovo synbiotic. Applying synbiotic through various methods in the second trial yielded better growth results, lower blood cholesterol, and significantly longer (p < 0.05) villi on 21 days.  Using the in ovo method to administer synbiotics lowered hatchability. Use of synbiotics with any method or in combination enhances growth, ileum structure, dressing yield, feed efficiency, and cholesterol levels in blood. Synbiotics enhance gut health and overall performance in broilers when used through diverse approaches. 

Movement activity sensors are known for their potential to boost the reproductive performance of dairy cows. This study evaluated the effectiveness of these sensors on three Thai dairy farms (MK, NF, and CC), each using different sensor brands. We focused on reproductive performance at these farms and expanded our evaluation to include farmer satisfaction with sensor technology on five farms (MK, NF, CC, AP, and IP), allowing for a thorough analysis of both operational outcomes and user feedback.  A total of 298 lactation records and interviewing five experienced farm owners with over a year of sensor usage were our research methods. To measure the effect on the first service timing and post-parturition pregnancy rates, Cox regression models were utilized for sensor usage.  Biosensors’ implementation enhanced data precision while quickening the first service within 100 days and pregnancy within 200 days. The MK and NF farms showed significant progress. Within 100 and 200 days post-implementation, the overall improvement was 30%–34% in the first service rate and 39%–67% in the conception rate across all assessed farms. Farmers acknowledged improved reproductive performance from the sensors, overcoming language barriers.  The study highlighted the advantages of using movement activity sensors in enhancing both cattle reproductive success and farmers’ satisfaction on Thai dairy farms. These sensors led to more accurate management decisions, increasing overall farm productivity. 

Antibiotic-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa poses a serious health threat. This study aimed to investigate the antibacterial activity of peptide KW-23 against drug-resistant P. aeruginosa and its potential for enhancing the efficacy of conventional antibiotics.  KW-23 was synthesized from nine amino acids, specifically three tryptophans and three lysines. The purity of the substance was analyzed using reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography. The peptide was identified through mass spectrometry using electrospray ionization. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of KW-23 in combination with conventional antibiotics against control and multidrug-resistant P. aeruginosa were determined utilizing broth microdilution. The erythrocyte hemolytic assay was used to measure toxicity. The KW-23 effect was analyzed using the time-kill curve.  The peptide exhibited strong antibacterial activity against control and multidrug-resistant strains of P. aeruginosa, with MICs of 4.5 μg/mL and 20 μg/mL, respectively. At higher concentration of 100 μg/mL, KW-23 exhibited a low hemolytic impact, causing no more than 3% damage to red blood. The cytotoxicity assay demonstrates KW-23’s safety, while the time-kill curve highlights its rapid and sustained antibacterial activity. The combination of KW-23 and gentamicin exhibited synergistic activity against both susceptible and resistant P. aeruginosa, with fractional inhibitory concentration index values of 0.07 and 0.27, respectively.  The KW-23 synthesized in the laboratory significantly combats antibiotic-resistant P. aeruginosa. Due to its strong antibacterial properties and low toxicity to cells, KW-23 is a promising alternative to traditional antibiotics in combating multidrug-resistant bacteria. 

The most intensive nutritional requirements occur during milk production’s peak. Ewe milk contains more protein and fat than cow milk. The nutritional factors significantly determine the composition. The liver undergoes high stress during lactation but is relieved by essential nutrients. Choline acts metabolically as a lipotrope. This compound functions in cell structure construction, maintenance, and acetylcholine synthesis. The animal nutrition industry provides choline from various sources, such as synthetic and natural kinds. This study evaluated the influence of two distinct choline sources on dairy ewes’ peripartum and postpartum milk production, composition, and offspring growth. Twenty-four Rambouillet ewes, each weighing around 63.7 ± 1.7 kg, aged three with two previous births, spent 30-day pre-partum and post-partum in individual pens (2 × 2 m). They were given different experimental treatments 30 days before and after birth according to a randomized design; no choline (a), 4 g/day rumen-protected choline (RPC) (b), or 4 g/day thiocholine (c). Milk samples for milk composition and long-chain fatty acid (FA) analysis were taken every 30 days during milk collection.  Significant differences (p < 0.05) in ewe body weight, lamb birth weight, and 30-day-old lamb body weight were observed at lambing and on day 30 of lactation due to choline treatment. Milk yield was significantly higher (1.57 kg/day) compared to the control (1.02 kg/day) and RPC (1.39 kg/day), due to the herbal choline source. There was no significant difference in the milk’s protein, lactose, fat, non-fat solids, and total milk solids content between the treatments. Herbal choline lowers (p < 0.05) the concentrations of caproic, caprylic, capric, lauric, and myristic acids while boosting (p < 0.05) those of oleic and cis-11-eicosenoic acid, the changes influencing long-chain FA levels (p < 0.05).  Providing choline from both sources to ewes enhanced milk production and body weight at lambing and on 30-day post-lambing. The herbal choline supplement altered short-chain milk FAs, while representative concentration pathways affected medium-chain ones. 

The importance of monitoring antimicrobial residues in food is underlined by increasing worries about food safety and public health. The potential toxicity of azithromycin (Az) on broilers and its impact on chicken meat residues require further investigation. This study assesses Az’s toxicity effects and associated risks in broiler chickens through evaluation.  One hundred and twenty chicks were distributed into four equal groups randomly. Each group received different daily oral doses of Az: 200 mg/kg for Az1, 100 mg/kg for Az2, and 50 mg/kg for Az3. The FAz group was given plain water. High-performance liquid chromatography was used to measure Az residue levels in muscle and liver. Oxidative markers (malondialdehyde [MDA], superoxide dismutase [SOD], catalase [CAT]), liver and kidney function tests, and histopathological examination were conducted.  The levels of alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase increased in Az1 and Az2 groups from 8 h to 3 days and decreased slightly in Az2 by 7 days, while they remained normal in Az3. The levels of uric acid and creatine in the Az1 and Az2 groups increased from 8 h to 3 days and subsequently decreased in Az2 by the 7th day. Az1 group showed the highest increase in MDA levels within 7 days. With higher Az doses, SOD and CAT levels showed a more significant decrease post-treatment. 9.1 μg/kg Az1 liver had the highest residues, whereas none were detected in muscle.  At higher doses, Az caused significant liver and kidney damage, whereas lower doses had negligible effects. Muscle tissue contains fewer Az residues than liver. Assessing risks and ensuring compliance with regulations necessitate constant surveillance of Az residues in food. The health implications and risk management insights necessitate further investigation into the long-term effects of Az residues. 

With the emergence of severe acute respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), antiviral drug development has gained increased significance due to the high incidence and potentially severe complications of the resulting coronavirus infection. Heterocycle compounds, acting as antimetabolites of DNA and RNA monomers, rank among the most effective antiviral drugs. These compounds’ antiviral effects on various SARS-CoV-2 isolates, as found in existing data collections, form the basis for further research. The aim of this study was to examine the possible antiviral effect of some originally synthesized heterocyclic compounds.  The main methods were cell culturing, cytotoxicity assay, qRT-PCR assay, tissue and blood cells analysis, and micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) imaging.  In both in vitro and in vivo conditions, the elimination of SARS-Cov-2 occurred significantly earlier after administration of the compounds compared to the control group. In hamsters, the primary symptoms of coronavirus disease disappeared following administration of heterocycle compounds.  Using delta and omicron strains of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, newly created heterocycle compound analogs dramatically reduced SARS-CoV-2 multiplication, resulting in a drop in viral RNA load in the supernatant under in vitro conditions. Improvements in pathological manifestations in the blood, bone marrow, and internal organs of hamsters demonstrated that heterocycle compounds inhibited SARS-CoV-2 replication both in vitro and in vivo. 

The continuous use of anthelmintic drugs has led to global issues of resistance. One breakthrough to address this problem is the utilization of bio-anthelmintics derived from active compounds in agro-industrial waste. This in vivo study investigated the effectiveness of Podang mango (Mangifera indica L.) fruit peel waste extract for anthelmintic purposes, using concentrations up to 5%.  This study included 28 Etawa crossbred goats aged 17 months. Goats were randomly assigned to four groups: A negative control, an aqueous fruit peel extract (AFPE) group at 2.5%, another AFPE group at 5%, and a positive control receiving ivermectin. Goats chosen had egg per gram (EPG) counts surpassing 1000 before exposure to Haemonchus contortus. For 7 days within a 9-week study, AFPE from Podang mangoes was given. On the 7th day, the positive control group was administered ivermectin. AFPE dosage relied on the average abomasum fluid per kilogram of animal weight. The feeding regimen consisted of concentrate and Pennisetum purpureum cv. Mott is customized for the nutritional needs of livestock. Data on feed consumption, digestibility, average daily gain, percentage reduction in fecal egg count, body condition score, and clinical parameters were collected throughout the study.  At higher treatment levels (AFPE), there was a greater reduction in both EPG and fecal egg counts. The expected and normal ranges were maintained for consumption and digestibility. While body weight increased, FAMACHA parameters showed a decrease. Compared to the negative control group, substantial disparities (p < 0.05) existed for hemoglobin, red blood cells, and hematocrit in both the positive control and the treatment groups. Blood urea nitrogen and creatinine, indicative of liver and kidney health, were within normal ranges.  At a concentration of up to 5%, Podang mango waste extract (AFPE) can function as a substitute for traditional helminth medicines or bio-anthelmintics in goats, enhancing their production. 

Schima wallichii Korth., commonly known as the needlewood tree (family Theaceae) has therapeutic uses in traditional Mizo medicine for human helminthiasis and serves as a balm against ectoparasites in animals. Although the medicinal properties have been studied experimentally, its use as a traditional anthelmintic remains unexplored. This study aimed to analyze the chemical components and antiparasitic activity of S. wallichii.  The chemical analysis of S. wallichi bark extracts was conducted focusing on the secondary metabolites using petroleum ether, chloroform, and methanol. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was used to identify the specific compounds. An anthelmintic susceptibility test was carried out against Raillietina tetragona, intestinal cestode parasite of fowl.  The methanol extract yielded the highest concentrations of alkaloids, carbohydrates, glycosides, sterols, saponins, and tannins among all the extracts. Sterols were the most abundant compounds in all extracts, with flavonoids being absent. Secondary metabolites were largely absent in the petroleum ether and chloroform extracts. The GC-MS data identified cholest-22-ene-21-ol as the major steroid component. The cestode parasite was inhibited in a concentration-dependent manner by the plant extract. The plant extract’s anthelmintic activity was evident through observable damage to the parasite’s outer structure.  Phytosterols in S. wallichii bark are responsible for its anthelmintic properties. The mechanism and pharmaceutical properties of the anthelmintic molecule require further exploration. 

In urban environments, dogs serve as the primary reservoir for visceral leishmaniasis (VL). Rapidly diagnosing canine VL through tests enables early treatment and a favorable prognosis. This study aimed to assess the diagnostic performance of the SensPERT® Leishmania test kit (Dechra®), Alere® Leishmaniasis Ac test kit, and the rapid test dual path platform (TR-DPP®) Bio-Manguinhos in detecting VL.  30 serum samples from reactive VL dogs and 30 serum samples from healthy dogs were employed for assessing the sensitivity and specificity variation between SensPERT® Leishmania test kit, Alere® Leishmaniasis Ac test kit, and rapid test dual platform – TR-DPP®.  The SensPERT® Leishmania test outperformed Alere® and TR-DPP® in terms of sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values and demonstrated near-perfect concordance with Alere® and substantial concurrence with TR-DPP®.  The SensPERT® Leishmania rapid test proved to be a promising test in the detection of VL in dogs. 

The management of incubation conditions impacts embryonic development, hatchability, and post-hatch performance. This study aimed to examine the effects of thermal manipulation (TM) during embryonic development on roosters’ thermotolerance, antioxidant activity, immunity, and semen quality under heat-stress conditions.  1200 fertile eggs were distributed evenly between two groups, each containing three replicates (200 eggs/replicate). The first group (G1) was held in the commercial setter with a consistent temperature of 37.5°C and 55% relative humidity (RH) through the 18-day incubation period, acting as a control, while the second group (G2) experienced these conditions until only the 11th day. The eggs were incubated at 39.5°C with 60% RH for 4 h each day from the 12th to the 18th day. From the 19th to 22nd incubation days, both groups maintained a consistent temperature of 37.2°C with a RH of 70%. Two hundred hatched male chicks per treatment group were moved into a closed-system house. All roosters were exposed to a 6-h daily heat challenge with a temperature of 35°C and a humidity of 70% between their 36th and 40th weeks of age.  Roosters of G2 exposed to thermal challenge showed improvements (p ≤ 0.05) in multiple blood biochemical, antioxidant, and immunity markers, including total protein, globulin, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, triiodothyronine, thyroxine, corticosterone, testosterone, total antioxidant capacity, malondialdehyde, immunoglobulin G, immunoglobulin M, and immunoglobulin A levels. Improved semen quality characteristics, including ejaculate volume, sperm concentration, motility, livability, and quality factor, as well as enhanced thermoregulation in post-hatch cocks, were also achieved (p ≤ 0.05).  To boost antioxidant activity, immunity, thermotolerance, and semen parameters in roosters under heat-stress conditions, TM application during egg incubation, specifically at 12–18 days, is recommended. 

Artemisia annua (AA), used as a growth promoter in poultry, lowers feed costs and enhances economic efficiency. This study aimed to assess the impact of varying AA concentrations on broiler chicken growth, gene expression, and profitability.  Two hundred 1-day-old male Cobb chicks were randomly allocated into four treatment groups, each containing five replicates and 10 birds. The experimental groups consisted of G1 (basal diet), G2 (basal diet with 0.3% AA), G3 (basal diet with 0.6% AA), and G4 (basal diet with 0.9% AA). The birds had continuous access to feed and water throughout the study. The experiment lasted for 42 days. we measured the growth performance (Feed intake, Life weight), carcass traits (weight after slaughter, dressed carcass, heart, gizzard, spleen, giblet and thymus weight), liver and spleen antioxidants (CAT, GSH, SOD), and gene expression of anti-inflammatory and immune- related genes.  The primary findings revealed that the addition of 0.6% AA had a positive impact (p < 0.05) on all investigated variables compared with the control and other groups. Dietary supplementation with 0.6% AA led to increased breast, giblet, skeleton, and total yield, and net return compared with the control group. Supplementation with AA exhibited antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunological effects through improved levels of antioxidant superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) in tissue homogenates of the liver and spleen. It also upregulated the relative messenger RNA levels of anti-inflammatory interleukin (IL)-10, SOD, CAT, and GSH-Px, whereas IL-1β and tumor necrosis factor-alpha were downregulated.  The study found that AA is a promising replacement for antibiotics in poultry farming as a growth promoter for chickens. 0.6% AA in the broiler diet yielded the best results, striking a balance between superior performance and robust economic benefits. 

Staphylococci, which inhabit skin and mucous membranes in humans and animals, are opportunistic pathogens. Coagulase-positive and coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) are the two main groups. Clinical abscesses in rabbits often harbor Staphylococcus aureus and CoNS. This study estimated S. aureus and CoNS prevalence, resistance profiles, antimicrobial-resistant genes, and the accessory gene regulator (agr) group in rabbit clinical abscesses.  Sixty-seven abscesses were gathered from 67 rabbits who visited Prasu-Arthorn Animal Hospital in Nakornpathom, Thailand, from January 2014 to October 2015. Thirty-four subcutaneous, 29 dental, 2 ocular, 1 mammary gland, and 1 uterine abscess were present. Conventional methods, including Gram staining, mannitol fermentation, hemolysis on blood agar, catalase testing, and coagulase production, identified and isolated S. aureus and CoNS from all abscesses. All S. aureus and CoNS isolates underwent antimicrobial susceptibility testing using the disk diffusion method. Polymerase chain reaction was used to detect the presence of blaZ, aacA-aphD, msrA, tetK, gyrA, grlA, dfrG, and cfr antimicrobial-resistant genes. Methicillin resistance was identified through the detection of a cefoxitin-resistant phenotype and the presence of mecA gene. Further investigation was conducted on the agr group of S. aureus isolates.  In 67 abscesses, we found 19 S. aureus isolates in 9 abscesses (13.43%) and 37 CoNS isolates in 18 abscesses (26.87%), both majorly located at subcutaneous sites. About 59.46% of CoNS isolates were methicillin-resistant compared to 5.26% of S. aureus isolates. Methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) and methicillin-resistant CoNS (MRCoNS) both displayed multidrug resistance (MDR). Both MRSA and MRCoNS expressed multiple antimicrobial resistance genes, including blaZ, aacA-aphD, gyrA, grlA, msrA, tetK, and dfrG. Approximately 73.68% of the agr groups were agr I, 15.79% were agr III, and 10.53% were agr II.  This study found a high prevalence of MRCoNS with antimicrobial resistance and multiple antimicrobial-resistant genes in rabbits with clinical abscesses. The effectiveness of antibiotics against infections caused by such strains is a matter of concern. Owners should be educated about the importance of good hygiene practices and judicious antibiotic use to prevent widespread antimicrobial resistance. 

The potential of plants as anthelmintics is very large, but there is still very little research conducted in the search for effective, safe, easily obtained, and affordable anthelmintic candidates. Palem putri (Veitchia merrillii) is an ornamental plant that is interesting to study because it is included in the areca nut group which is reported to have strong abilities as anthelmintics. The study aims to evaluate the anthelmintic efficacy of Veitchia merrillii against trematode worms such as Paramphistomum spp. and Fasciola hepatica.  This research employs both in vitro and computational techniques. An anthelmintic in vitro test was carried out on Paramphistomum spp. worms at concentrations of 10%, 25%, and 40% (gr/v), assessing mortality index as the observable outcome, followed by a histopathological investigation of the deceased worms for tissue and cellular damage evaluation. Seventeen compounds from V. merrillii seeds were studied in silico for their anthelmintic activity against F. hepatica worms using the quantitative structure-activity relationship technique, molecular docking, and Lipinski’s rule analysis for orally administered medication.  About 25% and 40% extracts of V. merrillii damaged the tegument organs in the worms. Seventeen compounds in V. merrillii seed extract, on average, yielded a higher anthelmintic index on F. hepatica than praziquantel. Eleven of the 17 compounds exhibit stronger affinity than praziquantel, with routine and gallic acid being the top two ligands (ΔGbinding values: −11.65 kcal/mol and −11.07 kcal/mol, respectively). According to Lipinski’s rule analysis, only routine compounds cannot be orally administered.  The seeds of V. merrilli have potential as an anthelmintic agent for Paramphistomum spp. at concentrations of 25%–40% (gr/v). 

A total of 10% of the global population succumbs to amoebiasis yearly, equating to 50,000–100,000 recorded fatalities. It is closely associated with contaminated food and water supplies due to human feces. The disease’s pathophysiology remains a subject of ongoing debate among experts. Some experts attribute the role of the host’s conditions, parasite species and strain, and infection intensity in eliciting clinical symptoms. The aim of this study was to perform molecular identification of Entamoeba species isolated from humans and cattle.  Stool samples from three hundred patients and one hundred cattle were collected from different regions, age groups, and sexes in Baghdad for microscopic examination. One hundred randomly chosen patient and cattle stool samples underwent microscopic examination and conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) targeting the 18S rRNA gene. Phylogenetic tree analyses were performed for Entamoeba species identification.  The infection rate in humans differed significantly (p < 0.05) between age groups and genders, totaling 38%. The infection rate in cattle, determined by conventional PCR, differed significantly (p < 0.05) between age groups and genders, amounting to 58%. Ten PCR products with positive results were sequenced and deposited in GenBank database. Sequence analysis detected that Eight sequences belong to E. histolytica ( OM268853.1, OM268854.1, OM268855.1, OM268857.1, OM268858.1, OM268860.1, OM268861.1, and OM268862.1) and two sequences belong to E. dispar (OM268856.1 and OM268859.1) in humans, while 10 sequences (ON724165.1 to ON724174.1) belongs to E. histolytica in cattle.  The increased susceptibility of cattle to E. histolytica suggests a considerable role in human infection and substantial public health risks. Further research should be conducted on the many virulence factors such as HM1:IMSS strain, cysteinprotease (Cp1), Gal/lectin, etc. of E. histolytica and E. dispar. 

Leptospirosis, classified by the World Health Organization as an emerging and neglected disease, is caused by the zoonotic pathogen Leptospira interrogans. This review aims to outline the Mexican epidemic of L. interrogans in dogs, including diagnosis and prevention methods. This review article searched articles from the publishers Wiley, Springer, PubMed, Redalyc, SciElo, and Elsevier. Among the 200 Mexican articles concerning Leptospira epidemiology, diagnosis, treatment, and vaccination, those that failed to meet the set inclusion criteria were excluded. The worldwide study of L. interrogans has focused on this bacterium. In Mexico, up-to-date information on canine prevalence, diagnosis, and vaccine use is scarce. Flow cytometrically detected Salmonella serovars differ from those in current vaccines, emphasizing the importance of broadening vaccine serovar coverage. 

Producing and transferring embryos in vitro are profitable for enhancing premium beef genetics. Reducing costs and enhancing the effectiveness of hormone protocols before ovum pick-up (OPU) yield advantages. This study aimed to confirm that estradiol benzoate (EB) treatment resulted in more medium- and large-sized follicles before OPU and of higher oocyte quality after OPU than non-hormonal treatments, comparable to those undergoing gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) with follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) plus prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α) and progesterone-releasing controlled internal drug release (CIDR) or EB with progesterone-releasing CIDR hormonal treatments.  30 crossbred Japanese black cows were divided into five equal groups, which were either untreated or treated with different hormone protocols before OPU. Group 1 (cows in estrus) and group 2 (cows in diestrus) were the untreated controls. Cows in group 3 were treated with GnRH + FSH + CIDR + PGF2α. Cows in group 4 received EB, and those in group 5 received EB + CIDR + PGF2α. After administering the protocols, all cow follicles were examined through ultrasonography and categorized by size. Subsequently, all cows underwent OPU, and the oocytes were collected and graded from A to D according to standard criteria.  Group 3 presented the highest large follicle numbers, and groups 3–5 had more medium follicle numbers, not different among groups but they had this parameter more than those of control groups 1 and 2. Moreover, groups 3–5 did not differ in combined grades A + B oocytes (good-quality oocytes). Groups 3 and 4 had more A + B oocytes than control groups 1 and 2, whereas group 5 was not different in this parameter from group 1.  Among the three hormone protocols, EB treatment proved the most cost-effective and efficient, yielding more high-quality oocytes compared to the non-treatment protocols. To reduce the limitations of EB use in the future, this study suggests researching natural EB phytoestrogens as alternative treatments for improving ovarian function before OPU in other cattle breeds. 

Edible bird’s nest (EBN) is known as the “Caviar of the East” because of its high nutritional and medicinal values. Nevertheless, its effect on human immunity is yet to be explored. This study examined the effects of EBN’s aqueous extract (EBNE) on human immunity through the modular immune in vitro construct (MIMIC) model consisting of peripheral tissue equivalent (PTE) and lymphoid tissue equivalent (LTE) modules.  One hundred twenty mL of full blood was obtained from four healthy human volunteers. The human immune system was simulated using an in vitro model, called MIMIC. Under EBNE treatment, monocyte transendothelial migration through reversed endothelial layers was observed. Using PTE and LTE modules, monocytes were differentiated into dendritic cells with lipopolysaccharide, then co-cultured with T- and B-cells for cytokine and immunoglobulin (Ig) production. The human cytokine array G2000 and quantitative human Ig isotyping array were used to identify the cytokine profile and Ig isotypes, respectively.  IgE, IgA, and IgG3 levels were significantly raised by EBNE. These cytokines, including brain-derived neurotrophic factor, ciliary neurotrophic factor, glial cell line-derivative neurotrophic factor, insulin-like growth factor 1, and insulin-like growth factor binding protein 4, were generated.  For the first time, this work uses a MIMIC model to illustrate the impact of EBNE on human immune response. This new understanding of EBN’s immunoregulatory effect allows for further exploration of how EBN interacts with the human immune system. 

Vasovagal tonus index (VVTI) serves as a straightforward assessment tool for autonomic function during both physiological and pathological conditions, including pregnancy, in horses. Obtaining VVTI through a modified base apex lead system could be a practical and comfortable solution. In this study, we assessed VVTI in horses with respect to training status and electrocardiographic measurements utilizing a novel modified base apex lead technique.  A total of 12 Thai native crossbred horses and 12 Arabian horses, all free of cardiac abnormalities, were enrolled in the study. Animals underwent electrocardiogram (ECG) and VVTI using both the base-apex lead method and its modified version. 25 mm/s and 10 mm/mV ECG recordings provided standard bipolar limb leads. The amplitudes and durations of P waves, QRS complexes, PR interval, QT interval, and T duration were assessed. The T wave’s shape was examined. Each recording’s R-R interval was utilized to assess heart rate. Twenty consecutive beats were used to compute the variability of heart rate (VVTI).  The P wave amplitude was the only significant difference (p < 0.05) between the base apex lead method and the modified base apex lead method, with no variations in heart rate, P duration, PR interval, T duration, and QRS duration and amplitude. Both methods showed mainly biphasic T wave patterns. The VVTI values of all horses did not differ significantly between the base apex and modified base apex methods. There was no significant difference in VVTI between Thai crossbred horses and Arabian horses in either method.  This study provided the first evidence that VVTI can be evaluated using the modified base apex lead system and may be useful for cardiovascular function monitoring in horses. 

These three parks in North-east Thailand, Kosamphi Forest Park, Kumphawapi Monkey Garden, and Dong Ling Don Chao Pu Park, are internationally recognized for sheltering long-tailed macaques. Overfeeding by tourists and locals significantly increases the frequency of human-macaque encounters. Being close to each other raises the chances of contracting gastrointestinal (GI) parasites. This study was designed to estimate the prevalence and range of GI parasite infections in long-tailed macaques among the three major natural habitats.  Three hundred fecal samples were collected from long-tailed macaques, with 100 samples from each of the three study sites. The samples underwent Formalin-ethyl acetate concentration technique examination. Parasites were identified based on their morphology and size as observed under a light microscope.  About 66.67% of the population had GI parasitic infection. Balantidium coli had the highest occurrence (41.66%), whereas Strongyloides spp. (24.33%), Trichuris spp. (18.33%), Entamoeba coli (10.33%), and Endolimax nana (2.33%) followed next in prevalence. A higher rate of single infections (41%) was reported compared to mixed infections (25.66%). At Dong Ling Don Chao Pu Park, the prevalence rate of B. coli in long-tailed macaques was 70%, markedly higher than those reported at the other two study sites. In these areas, the first known case of B. coli infection occurred in long-tailed macaques. In the Kumphawapi Monkey Garden, the prevalence of Strongyloides spp. and Trichuris spp. infections was significantly greater (45% and 28%, respectively) compared to the other two areas.  In northeast Thailand, long-tailed macaques are predominantly infected with B. coli, causing GI protozoal infections. In this primate population of the region, Strongyloides and Trichuris species are common helminths. This study offers new knowledge on parasitic loads in Thai long-tailed macaques, essential for devising effective One Health approaches to prevent and manage zoonotic diseases. 

The impact of maternal hormone concentration on kid growth performance in relation to insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) and leptin is minimal. This study examined IGF-1 and leptin levels at varying ages and gestation periods for their correlation with Black Bengal goat kids’ growth during the preweaning phase.  Blood samples were collected from 43 dams with different reproductive cycles and 28 prepubertal goats to measure serum concentrations of IGF-1 and leptin. Among dams, both hormones were investigated in different age ranges (<2, 2–3, 3–4, and >4 years old) and reproductive cycles (non-pregnancy, early gestation (1–50 days), mid-gestation (51–100 days), late gestation (101–135 days), and the last 15 days before delivery). After delivery, 65 kids from 34 dams were weighted weekly for 8 weeks to calculate average daily weight gain (ADG) at 0–4 weeks (ADG0–4 W) and 4–8 weeks (ADG4–8 W) and growth performance, including weight (W), height (H), length (L), chest girth (C) measured at birth (W0, H0, L0, and C0) and at 10 weeks of age (W10, H10, L10, and C10) were related to hormone serum concentrations in their dams at different gestation periods including the last 15 days before delivery.  Dams had higher mean serum IGF-1 (p < 0.001) and leptin (p < 0.05) than prepubertal goats. Dams at late gestation had higher IGF-1 concentrations than those at early and mid-gestation and during the last 15 days before delivery. However, it was consistent with non-pregnant goats. The kid’s growth performance correlated positively with IGF-1 concentration, which was collected in the last 15 days before delivery. Multivariate analysis showed that ADG0–4 W was higher in kids born from dams with high IGF-1 than those with low IGF-1 measured during the last 15 days of delivery, whereas leptin tended to have a similar effect.  Serum IGF-1 and leptin concentrations of dams measured during the last 15 days before delivery were associated with kid’s growth during the preweaning period. 

Mycobacterium tuberculosis causes global concern with tuberculosis (TB). Multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) and extensively drug-resistant TB (XDR-TB) pose additional challenges, as they resist multiple first-line drugs. This study investigated the occurrence of TB, antibiotic resistance due to inhA and katG gene mutations, and multidrug resistance in M. tuberculosis during fiscal years 2020–2022.  Samples were gathered from hospitals in seven provinces of upper Southern Thailand. The study investigated the correlation between inhA and katG gene mutations in M. tuberculosis and the development of antimicrobial resistance and isoniazid resistance.  A total of 19,186 samples were sent to the Office of Disease Prevention and Control Region 11st, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand. The results showed that 51% of the samples were obtained from patients located in Nakhon Si Thammarat, followed by Surat Thani provinces. Regarding the spatial distribution of TB-infected cases, the incidence of TB was high in the province, which has a moderate to high population density. The highest average occurrence of TB in this study was found in Phuket province (9.75/100,000 risk person-year). The detected isoniazid resistance was 394, 255, and 179 cases in 2020, 2021, and 2022, respectively. A total of 99 isolates were MDR, whereas four isolates were XDR. The antimicrobial resistance associated with the inhA mutation was 192, 142, and 105 isolates, respectively, whereas the resistance associated with the katG mutation was 249, 182, and 120 cases in 2020, 2021, and 2022, respectively.  These findings contribute to the understanding of the occurrence of antibiotic-resistant TB that could lead to use as data for preventing MDR-TB. 

Staphylococcus aureus, with its diverse virulence factors and immune response evasion mechanisms, presents a formidable challenge as an opportunistic pathogen. Developing an effective vaccine against S. aureus has proven elusive despite extensive efforts. Autologous Staphylococcus lysate (ASL) treatment has proven effective in triggering an immune response against bovine mastitis. Peptides that stimulate the immune response can be the subject of further research. The study aimed to use immunoinformatics tools to identify epitopes on S. aureus surface and secretory proteins that can bind to major histocompatibility complex class I (MHC I) and CD8+ T-cells. This method aids in discovering prospective vaccine candidates and elucidating the rationale behind ASL therapy’s efficacy.  Proteins were identified using both literature search and the National Center for Biotechnology Information search engine Entrez. Self and non-self peptides, allergenicity predictions, epitope locations, and physicochemical characteristics were determined using sequence alignment, AllerTOP, SVMTriP, and Protein-Sol tools. Hex was employed for simulating the docking interactions between S. aureus proteins and the MHC I + CD8+ T-cells complex. The binding sites of S. aureus proteins were assessed using Computer Atlas of Surface Topography of Proteins (CASTp) while docked with MHC I and CD8+ T-cells.  Nine potential S. aureus peptides and their corresponding epitopes were identified in this study, stimulating cytotoxic T-cell mediated immunity. The peptides were analyzed for similarity with self-antigens and allergenicity. 1d20, 2noj, 1n67, 1nu7, 1amx, and 2b71, non-self and stable, are potential elicitors of the cytotoxic T-cell response. The energy values from docking simulations of peptide-MHC I complexes with the CD8+ and T-cell receptor (TCR) indicate the stability and strength of the formed complexes. These peptides – 2noj, 1d20, 1n67, 2b71, 1nu7, 1yn3, 1amx, 2gi9, and 1edk – demonstrated robust MHC I binding, as evidenced by their low binding energies. Peptide 2gi9 exhibited the lowest energy value, followed by 2noj, 1nu7, 1n67, and 1d20, when docked with MHC I and CD8 + TCR, suggesting a highly stable complex. CASTp analysis indicated substantial binding pockets in the docked complexes, with peptide 1d20 showing the highest values for area and volume, suggesting its potential as an effective elicitor of immunological responses. These peptides – 2noj, 2gi9, 1d20, and 1n67 – stand out for vaccine development and T-cell activation against S. aureus.  This study sheds light on the design and development of S. aureus vaccines, highlighting the significance of employing computational methods in conjunction with experimental verification. The significance of T-cell responses in combating S. aureus infections is emphasized by this study. More experiments are needed to confirm the effectiveness of these vaccine candidates and discover their possible medical uses.