Journal of Advanced Veterinary Research

Pathological, histopathological, and immunohistochemical evaluation of vulvar fibropapilloma in a heifer and its therapeutic trial: A Case Report

Mohamed Hesham — 2024-10-17

A 6-month-old heifer cow was admitted to a Veterinary clinic in Bani-Ghaleb, Assiut, Egypt, with a large, nodular, vulvar, broad base tumor that had an outer necrosed, rough core and smaller blackish nodules at the thigh region. The animal displayed a normal appetite, and the clinical parameters were within the normal physiological limits. The tumor was resected surgically, thermocautarization was applied and the animal received supportive treatment and antibiotic therapy to get rid of secondary infections. The tumor was photographed and fixed in neutral buffer formalin 10% for further histopathological assessments that showed hyperkeratosis, koilocytosis, and acanthosis of the stratified squamous epithelium. Occasional eosinophilic intracytoplasmic inclusions were observed. Immunohistochemical results revealed nuclear immunopositivity to cellular proliferation markers (PCNA and Ki-67) of the stratum basale as well as fibroblasts. Vimentin-positive labeling was remarkable in the dermal connective tissue. Myofibroblasts, smooth muscles of hair follicles, and dilated capillaries showed α-SMA positive reaction. Tumor recurrence didn’t occur during a period of follow-up that extended to six months. We concluded that surgical excision with thermocautarization is the ideal treatment for genital fibropapillomas. Since the animal was sexually immature, genital papillomas are not restricted to venereal transmission. Further hormonal immunoassays are recommended.

Knowledge and perception of small-scale farmers on highly pathogenic avian influenza prevention

Qui Nguyen Hoang — 2024-10-02

Knowledge and perception of poultry farmers is one of key factors to improve disease prevention practice. By collecting data from small-scale poultry farmers, this study aimed to determine the knowledge and perception of farmers towards highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) prevention practice and analyse the effect of social profiles, farmer’s raising behaviours on knowledge and perception of farmers. The study applied purposive sampling method to select 159 respondents in Tra Vinh Province and use multiple regression analysis to analyze data. The results showed that farmers were mostly more than 40 years old and not completed high school yet. Farmers have raised poultry under traditional methods with some feed and water from natural sources. Farmers keep cleaning and disinfect their farm frequently. The study recorded that farmer had a good knowledge and perception towards HPAI. There were some factors significantly affect the knowledge and perception of farmers including gender, training, income, poultry species, water source. Particularly, when farmers were male, joined in HPAI prevention training activities and not use water from natural source, their knowledge significantly increased. Besides, the increase in one unit of gender, income, poultry species, water source significantly increased the perception of poultry farmers. Other variables had no significant effect. It can be concluded that gender, training, income, poultry species, water source could be used to improve farmer’s knowledge and perception towards HPAI prevention practice.

Effect of mineral mix-enriched essential oil supplementation on egg production, antibody titer, physical, and chemical egg quality, and yolk fatty acid profile of laying hens

Muhammad F. Hanif — 2024-10-02

This study aimed to determine the effect of mineral mix–enriched essential oil (MMEO) on egg production, antibody titer, egg quality, and yolk fatty acid of laying hens. A total of 1680 Lohman Brown laying hens, aged 31 weeks, were randomly divided into two dietary treatment groups. Each group consisted of 6 replicates, with 140 hens per treatment. The hens were fed either a basal diet (CON) or a diet supplemented with 0.25% mineral mix–enriched essential oil (MMEO) for a period of 6 weeks. Egg production and feed efficiency were calculated on every week. On days 21 and 42 of treatments, two eggs per replicate were randomly collected to determine the physical and chemical quality. The antioxidant activity and fatty acid profile of one egg per replicate were analysed at the end of week 6. The results showed that dietary treatment with MMEO increased egg production and feed efficiency compared to the control group. The inclusion increased yolk weight at week 3. However, MMEO supplementation did not affect the physical quality of eggs at week 6. In addition, dietary MMEO supplementation increased the antioxidant activity of yolk at week 6. On contrast, feeding MMEO did not affect the fatty acid profile of yolk. In conclusion, supplementation of mineral mix–enriched essential oil improved laying hens’ productivity and antioxidant activity of yolk.

Cow's milk screening for veterinary drug and pollutant residues in Ukraine for the period from 2020 to 2023

Svitlana Shulyak — 2024-10-02

Dairy industry is leading in the structure of the food industry of Ukraine at the current stage. It consists of the butter production, cheese production, and milk-canning sub-sectors, as well as manufacturing of whole milk products, since the products of this industry occupy an important place in the consumption of the population. Therefore, research on regulation, toxicological and hygienic assessment of toxic contaminants of various origins must be conducted. The purpose of this study was to assess the cow's milk from Ukrainian farms for presence of key safety indicators over the past 4 years, namely: residues of antibiotics, nitrofurans, coccidiostats, insecticides, fungicides, anthelmintics, corticosteroids, glucocorticosteroids, organochlorine and organophosphate pesticides, mycotoxins, toxic elements, radionuclides. In the period of 2020-2023 7138 samples of cow’s milk from native dairy enterprises from 25 regions of Ukraine were screened for the content of various dangerous substances and compounds from groups A and B which are declared in Directive 96/23/EC. It was established that the milk of cows from Ukraine meets current national standards and is not inferior in terms of quality and safety to EU indicators. Among the inconsistent results, it is worth highlighting the presence of Chloramphenicol in 0.85% of milk samples out of 234 tested for its content, which was 0.03% of the total number of samples, while the content of other investigated drugs and substances was below of the methods detection limit.

Impact of pH and temperature on bacteriocin activity and plantaricin C gene expression of Lactobacillus plantarum bacteria

Eman Gad — 2024-10-02

This study aimed to investigate the effect of different pH (7 and 4) and temperatures (4 and 40°C) on bacteriocin activity and plantaricin C (plnC) gene expression of Lactobacillus plantarium. Six strains of L. plantarum were used in these trials. The bacteriocin activity was measured after the different treatments by well diffusion test using indicator bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli O157:H7). Moreover, the plnC gene expression was determined by real-time PCR using 16S rRNA primers for universal bacteria and plantacirin C primers. The results declared a significant difference between the different pH and temperatures. In addition, the downregulation of plnC gene expression in pH 4. The upregulation of the same gene was applied to 40 ºC during bacteria incubation. Also, there is no correlation between the bacteriocin activity and plnC gene expression after applying different pH and temperatures in L. plantarum bacteria.

Evaluation of the subconjunctival injection of Hesperidin with or without olive oil on the healing of alkali burn corneal ulcer in rabbits

Aya Hamdy — 2024-10-02

Corneal ulcers represent an anxious problem in animals and humans. The alkali burn corneal ulcer is severe and may be associated with damage to most of the corneal structure. The healing of the corneal ulcer is mainly complicated by the impairment of vision. The striving to find a new therapy that promotes the healing of corneal injuries with the maintenance of the power of vision is the main aim of most studies. The current study was conducted to evaluate the effect of hesperidin with or without olive oil after its deposition under conjunctiva on the healing of induced alkali burn corneal ulcers. For carrying out the study, 18 New Zealand albino rabbits were included. They were divided into three equal groups. Group I (control) received 0.5 ml of normal saline 0.9% under the bulbar conjunctiva 5 times at one-week intervals. Group II (H) received 0.5 ml of hesperidin nanovesicles subconjunctivally 5 times at one-week intervals. Group III (HO) received 0.5 ml of nanovesicles of hesperidin with olive oil under the bulbar conjunctiva 5 times one week apart. The right eye of animals was subjected to induction of corneal ulcer using 1% NaOH before the commencement of treatment. The left eye was used as a negative control one. The animals were examined clinically (lacrimation, neovascularization, pus formation, corneal perforation, measurement of corneal ulcer), and with fluorescein test staining every week just before each treatment. The animals were examined on days 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, 36 post corneal ulcer induction. At the end of the experiment, the treated and nontreated eye samples were collected for histopathological and electron microscopy examination. The results showed an improvement in the total clinical score in groups H and HO especially in the fifth week, while the control group displayed increasing in the inflammatory process of the injured eye throughout the time of experiment. There was a significant difference between both of H and HO groups and the control group in the third, fourth, and fifth weeks. The results of the histopathological and electron microscopy revealed the superiority of hesperidin with olive oil over hesperidin alone in promoting the healing of corneal ulcers (p= 0.045). The current study concluded that the subconjunctival injection of hesperidin with or without olive oil has a beneficial and promoting effect in the healing and regeneration of alkali burn corneal ulcers in rabbits. Moreover, subconjunctival injections can ensure long-term drug maintenance compared to topical methods, which in turn saves time and energy.

Probiotics and ascorbic acid improved radiographic bone density and mitigated oxidative stress and multiple organ dysfunction induced by heat stress in rats

Marian M. Eskander — 2024-10-02

Heat stress is a substantial environmental challenge that adversely affect health and performance. This study aimed to investigate the effect of advanced short-term dietary supplementation of probiotics or vitamin C on serum biochemical parameters, antioxidant status, and radiographic bone density in heat-stressed rats. A 48 male albino rat were randomly allocated into six groups: Control, Heat stress, Probiotics, Probiotics+Heat stress, Vitamin C, Vitamin C+Heat stress group. Rats in supplementation groups received probiotics or ascorbic acid orally from week 1 to 8. Heat stress groups were subjected to elevated temperature (42 ±1 ˚C and relative humidity 65 ± 2%) 60 minutes daily for 4 weeks starting from week 5 to 8, while other groups were maintained under standard laboratory conditions. Heat stress resulted in increased serum ALT, AST, urea and creatinine (P<0.001), decreased calcium, increased phosphorus and osteocalcin (P<0.001), increased serum MDA, decreased TAC (P<0.001), decreased radiographic bone density (P<0.001) compared to other groups. Histopathological examination of liver, kidney and adrenal glands reflected the ongoing heat-stress damage. Administration of probiotics and ascorbic acid demonstrated substantial protection, suggesting their potential efficacy against heat stress. The obtained findings hold promise for the development of novel strategies to enhance heat stress resilience in animals.

Effect of duck hatchery waste supplementation as an alternative protein source on growth performance, and income over feed cost of hybrid ducks

Abdul Ghoni — 2024-10-02

Duck hatchery waste is an alternative feed ingredient for protein sources in poultry. This study aimed to determine the effect of duck hatchery waste supplementation on growth performance, and income over feed cost of hybrid ducks. A total of 120-day-old male hybrid ducks (body weight: 61.4 g ± 4.9) were randomly divided into three treatments (4 replicates per treatment, 10 ducks per replicate). At 0-14 days of age, ducks were fed the same complete feed in all treatments. After 14 days of age, ducks were fed an experimental diet until 35 days of age. The treatment feed consists of a basal diet (P0), basal diet with 8% hatchery waste (P1), and basal diet with 16% hatchery waste (P2). Supplementation of 8% and 16% duck hatchery waste increased accumulated feed consumption and body weight gain of hybrid ducks on day 35 (P<0.05). However, feeding duck hatchery waste did not affect the feed conversion ratio of hybrid ducks on week 5. In contrast, supplementation of duck hatchery waste decreased the FCR of hybrid ducks at weeks 3 and 4. Furthermore, the inclusion of duck hatchery waste in the duck diet increased revenue generation from duck sales and also increased the IOFC value. In conclusion, supplementation of duck hatchery waste can increase feed intake and body weight gain, duck sales and IOFC value of hybrid ducks.

Inhibitory activity of chitosan nanoparticles and Spirulina platensis extract against Candida albicans in thermally treated milk

Sara Nazmy — 2024-10-02

Milk is a suitable medium for the growth of many microbes, in particular, fungi and yeasts that change the physical and chemical properties of milk and in the final dairy products. In the current study, the target was to apply natural components to control growth of Candida albicans in pasteurized milk. Chitosan (CS), chitosan nanoparticles (CSN), and Spirulina platensis (SP) and its extract (SPE) were used. The MIC (12.5 to 100 mg/ml) of the natural components against Candida albicans as a model for fungi family was determined their effect in broth and in pasteurized milk. CS and CSN were the most effective natural component inhibit the growth of C. albicans strain with concentration 25 mg/ml followed by SPE with inhibitory activity against C. albicans at concentration 100 mg/ml while, Spirulina platensis (SP) showed the least inhibitory activity with the same concentration. By application in pasteurized milk CSN showed the best candidacidal effect with inhibitory 1.2 log₁₀cfu/ml after 15day at refrigerated storage as adding CSN extended shelf life of pasteurized milk. On conclusion, we recommend adding chitosan nanoparticles in milk at concentration 25mg/ml to limit the fungal growth

Pumpkin seed and grape seed extracts ameliorate cyclophosphamide-induced spermatogenesis inhibition in rat model: Histomorphometrical, immunohistochemical, and ultrastructural approaches

Eman Mohamed Samy — 2024-10-02

This study investigated the protective efficacy of grape seed extract (GSE) and pumpkin seed extract (PSE) against cyclophosphamide (CP)-induced testicular toxicity in adult male albino rats, focusing on biochemical, histopathological, histomorphometrical, ultrastructural, and immunohistochemical perspectives. Thirty-six male albino rats were divided into six groups: control, PSE, GSE, CP, CP + PSE, CP + GSE. Testicular tissues and serum samples were collected for analysis after 8 weeks. The CP group exhibited significant testicular damage with distorted seminiferous tubules (marked decline in diameters and germinal epithelial thicknesses), germ cell apoptosis, and disrupted spermatogenesis (decline in Johnsen’s score and weak immunoexpression of PCNA in basal germ cells). Ultrastructurally, germ cells exhibited shrunken pyknotic nuclei and cytoplasmic aggregations of ribosomes with dilated or shrunken mitochondria. Spermatozoa displayed an irregular axoneme with loss of fibrous sheath. Furthermore, there were significantly decreased testosterone levels and increased oxidative stress markers (elevated malondialdehyde levels and decreased glutathione levels). In contrast, the CP + PSE and CP + GSE groups showed marked mitigation of these changes, resulting in a notable amelioration of oxidative stress markers, and testosterone levels, preservation of testicular architecture, and normalization of spermatogenic processes, along with elevated Johnsen score. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed an increase in PCNA in the CP + PSE and CP + GSE groups compared to the CP group. These findings suggested that GSE and PSE, owing to their antioxidant properties, could effectively reduce CP-induced testicular damage.

Evaluation of testicular outcomes following laparoscopic assisted orchidopexy in dogs

Mohamed Fathi — 2024-10-02

Cryptorchidism is a common congenital abnormality encountered in dogs. The commonly used treatment for this condition is orchiectomy or orchidectomy. Surgical placement and fixation of the cryptorchid testicle into the scrotum, referred to as orchiopexy, is used in humans. The treatment of cryptorchidism by orchiopexy in dogs is a controversial topic due to the hereditary nature of cryptorchidism in dogs. The present study was focusing for the first time on long-term monitoring of the testicular soundness and function following laparoscopic orchidopexy in young dogs (180 ± 14 days). Seventeen (n = 17) German shepherd young dogs (180 ± 14 days) were included in the study. All cases enrolled in this study underwent laparoscopic testicular descent and orchidopexy. Ten days postoperatively, the dogs were evaluated by Doppler ultrasound to assess the testicular blood flow. At age of 18 - 20 months, semen parameters were evaluated in all treated dogs. Clinically, the abdominal wounds were healed 3 - 4 days after surgery with complete absence of all signs of infection, pain or discomfort. Testicular volume (TV; cm3) and thickness of the mediastinum line (MT; mm) were within normal values (8.65 ± 0.25 cm³ and 1.11 ± 0.85 mm), with normal testicular blood flow. The mean values of semen parameters were (82.68% for individual motility and 90.35% for the percentage of live sperm). In conclusion, laparoscopic descent and orchidopexy can be utilized with keeping the normal testicular functions when performed at young aged dogs (180 ± 14 days).

Molecular characterization and phylogenetic analysis of structural protein Vp1 to new isolate of duck hepatitis A virus

Maha M. Sayed — 2024-10-02

Duck hepatitis A virus (DHA) is very fatal viral disease affecting young ducklings under one month old. The disease is generally spread among duckling flocks inducing sever dramatic and economic losses. The present research highlights investigation of duck hepatitis virus through collection of hundred spleen and liver field samples from various commercial 3-11 days old duckling sectors (Pekin and Mullard) at ten Egyptian governorates in 2022 and 2023 with historical view of high mortalities and nervous manifestations with background of previous immunization. The clinically infected specimens were directly screened using RT-PCR assay to detect duck hepatitis A virus through amplification of VP1 gene that reveals only one sample (obtained from Menofia governorate) was positive for DHAV-3. BLAST analysis of Partial obtained sequence of VP1 gene showed that it was closely related Egyptian strain (accession number OR543968) besides nucleotides and amino acid changes were observed in comparison with other strains. Phylogenetic analysis of the obtained strain revealed clustering with viruses of Chinese origin and distinctive from vaccinal strains utilized in Egypt. Successful isolation of duck hepatitis A virus was achieved through inoculation of tissue homogenates into allantoic cavity of 9-11 day old embryonated chicken eggs. The outcomes of this work supplied rationalized knowledge about the epidemiological criteria of DHA virus in Egypt; emphasize the significance of DHA survey and vaccine selection.

Challenge of nisin and its nanoparticles in eliminating Listeria monocytogenes inoculated in chilled minced meat

Asmaa Tolba — 2024-10-02

Nisin, a bacteriocin produced by Lactococcus lactis subsp. lactis, has shown significant potential as a food preservative, particularly in inhibiting the growth of Listeria monocytogenes. This study aimed to characterize nisin nanoparticles (NNP) and evaluate their antibacterial activity in minced beef meat during refrigerated storage at 4 °C. Fourier- transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis revealed shifts in peaks, indicating increased hydrogen bonding in nisin nanoparticles compared to free nisin. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images showed spherical particles with an average size of 10.34 ± 3.98 nm, exhibiting excellent stability. In antibacterial activity tests, minced meat treated with nisin nanoparticles at concentrations of 0.6 and 1.2 ml/100g showed a significant reduction in L. monocytogenes counts compared to the control (p < 0.01) on the 6^th and 3^rd days, respectively. However, samples treated with nisin at 1.2 ml/100g spoiled on the 6^th day. Sensory evaluation revealed that nisin nanoparticles effectively maintained the sensory quality of minced meat throughout the storage period, with enhanced acceptability on the 6^th day. The pH of treated samples remained lower than the control throughout storage, with no significant difference between nisin nanoparticle treatments on the 6^th day. TBA values showed that nisin nanoparticles at 0.6 and 1.2 ml/100g inhibited lipid oxidation, with values below 0.78 mg/kg on the 6^th day. Overall, nisin nanoparticles showed promising antibacterial and preservative effects in minced beef meat, highlighting their potential as a safe and effective food preservative.Top of Form

Necrotic enteritis and coinfection with different coccidia species with unveiling the effect of Moringa extract in improving their negative impact in broiler chickens

Amani M. Mosleh — 2024-10-02

A severe co-infection in poultry is produced by Clostridium perfringens (C. perfringens) and coccidia, which results in fatalities and bleeding diarrhea. This study aimed to detect the effect of M. olifera extract against C. perfringens and Eimeria. A total of 200 samples were collected from eight broiler farms to isolate C. perfringens and detect Eimeria spp. from suspected diseased poultry and litter. Thirteen percent of the samples were positive for C. perfringens, and 87% and 50% of the confirmed isolates had the enterotoxin genes cpe and netB. Eimeria spp. accounted for 60% of the population, with E. acervulina, E. necatrix, E. tenella, and E. maxima being the most frequently identified species. Furthermore, we determined the relative efficacy of the plant extracts by examining the efficacy of Moringa oleifera extraction on broilers experimentally infected with C. perfringens and mixed Eimeria species. We divided the 30 birds into three groups, each containing 10 birds. Group 1 (G1) was used as a control, Group 2 (G2) had C. perfringens type A and Eimeria spp. Infections for the last 3 weeks, and Group 3 (G3) had the same infections as Group 2 and had been fed M. oleifera extract (150 mg/kg BW). At the experimental infection level, the animals' growth performance parameters became better than those of the infected group, with a significant variation (P < 0.05) in G3. Additionally, they had fewer C. perfringens infections in their intestines and faeces, and their feces shed fewer oocysts. In conclusion, M. olifera extract is effective against C. perfringens and Eimeria-challenged birds and enhances their performance.

Synergism between Saccharomyces cerevisiae probiotic and rosemary nano-emulsion: Effect on broiler chicken meat quality and shelf life

Asmaa M. Abd-Elrahman — 2024-10-02

Although several studies have investigated the effect of either probiotic feed additives or postmortem meat treatment on the quality of obtained chicken meat, the impact of combined treatment with probiotic feed additives along with meat dipping in essential oil nano-emulsion on meat shelf-life is barely examined. Therefore, this study investigated the effect of combined treatment with Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast (SCY) and rosemary oil nano-emulsion (RNE) on the quality and shelf-life of chilled broiler meat. The experimental part consisted of adding SCY as a feed additive to broiler ration and/or dipping the resulting chicken meat in RNE 10% for 24 hours. Afterward, chicken meat from different treated groups, as well as the control one was refrigerated (4 ± 1 °C) and periodically examined on 0, 3^rd, 7^th, and 9^th days of storage. The obtained results revealed significant reductions in total colony, Total Enterobacteriaceae, total staphylococci, and total fungal counts of the SCY+RNE-treated group were reduced by about 79.4 %, 34 %, 72.8 % and 32.5% as compared to control, respectively (p<0.001). While of RNE-treated group, they were decreased by about 71.6 %, 16.5 %,14.4 % and 26 % as compared to control, respectively (p˂0.001). Whereas of the SCY-treated group, they were reduced about 57.2 %, 59 %, 28.5 % and 24.7 % as compared to control, respectively (p˂0.001). Additionally, meat spoilage indicators (pH, TBA-RS, TVBN) came in harmony with the microbiological results. As control group samples had the highest values of pH, TBA-RS, and TVBN, followed by the RNE-treated group and the SCY-treated group. On the other hand, the SCY+RNE-treated group showed the lowest pH, TBA-RS, and TVBN levels (p<0.001). These results confirm that treatment with SCY alone, RNE alone, and SCY+RNE prolonged the shelf-life of broiler chicken meat. To conclude, the addition of SCY as a probiotic additive to chicken feed in combination with meat dipping in RNE has a potential synergistic favorable effect on chicken meat quality and shelf-life.

Florfenicol-loaded tannic acid-chitosan iron oxide nanoparticles for enhanced efficacy against Salmonella Typhimurium

Naglaa A. Ali — 2024-10-02

Antimicrobial drug resistance caused by Salmonella (S.) Typhimurium is a noteworthy issue causing morbidity and mortality linked to potential outbreaks throughout the world. The current study aimed to synthesis chitosan, iron oxide nanoparticles (Ch-Fe₃O₄ NPs), tannic acid-Ch-Fe3O4 (T-Ch-Fe₃O₄) NPs for the loading of florfenicol, compare the antibacterial efficiency of the free florfenicol and the loaded one against florfenicol-resistant strains of S. Typhimurium. Also, the in-vitro bio-toxicity and viability effect of those materials were assessed. It was shown that florfenicol was successfully loaded onto the surface of tannic acid-Ch-Fe₃O₄ NPs. This was determined through measurement of hydrodynamic sizes and zeta potential (+0.120 ± 0.02, -0.372 ± 0.072 and +0.07 ± 0.03 mV for Ch-Fe₃O₄ NPs, T-Ch-Fe₃O₄ NPs, and Florfenicol NPs respectively) and confirmed by FT-IR analysis. Concerning the antibacterial effect, loading florfenicol with T-Ch-Fe₃O₄ NPs resulted in superior antibacterial efficacy against the resistant S. Typhimurium strain. This was evident by a decrease in the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) from 31.25 μg/ml for florfenicol to 15.62 μg/ml for the loaded florfenicol NPs. This finding suggests that florfenicol NPs possess enhanced antibacterial efficacy compared to the free drug, highlighting the potential of nanotechnology in addressing the challenge of antibiotic resistance.

Epigenetic impact and ameliorative potential role of quercetin or rosemary extract on metalaxy or manganese chloride-induced toxicity via mitigation of microRNA, DNA methylation and regulation of MAPK phosphorylation in rats

Alaa S.A. Hussein — 2024-10-02

Metalaxyl fungicide, play an important role in hepatotoxicity and liver damage. High levels of Manganese (Mn) exposure may cause irreversible brain disease. The potential protective role and epigenetic mechanism of Quercetin or rosemary extract in metalaxyl or manganese chloride (MnCl₂) toxicity were evaluated. Fifty-sex rats were split into two experiment. Experiment A: Metalaxyl hepetotoxicity 1/10 LD₅₀ (130 mg/kg b.wt) and Experiment B: Manganese chloride neurotoxicity 1/25 LD₅₀ (59.36 mg/kg b.wt). The experiment (A) divided into 4 groups: G1 (control group) given distilled water, G2 (Metalaxyl) received (130 mg/kg b.wt) three times a week for six weeks, G3 (Metalaxyl + Quercetin) given quercetin (50 mg/kg b.wt/day) and metalaxyl. G4 (Metalaxyl + Rosemary extract) given rosemary extract (200 mg/kg b.wt/day) and Metalaxyl. The experiment (B) split also into four equal groups similar the design in experiment (A) but MnCl₂ (59.36 mg/kg b.wt) was given five times a week for six consecutive weeks. The results of metalaxyl exposed rats displayed up-regulation of liver MAPK1, miRNA-684 and DNA hypermethylation but, down-regulation of miRNA-7, up-regulation of miRNA-153 were detected in brain of MnCl₂ intoxicated rats compared to control. Quercetin or rosmary extract co-treatment with metalaxy significantly down-regulated liver MAPK1 and miRNA-684 with DNA hypomethylation with up-regulation of miRNA-7 and down-regulation of miRNA-153 in brain of MnCl₂ exposed rats. In conclusion, quercetin or rosmary extract displayed hepatoprotective and neuroprotective role against metalaxyl or manganese toxicity via mitigation of epigenetic markers MicroRNA, DNA Methylation and regulation of MAPK phosphorylation in liver and brain of rats.

Enhancing the immunogenicity and protective efficacy of inactivated pigeon paramyxovirus vaccine (PMV-1) using synthetic polymeric adjuvant

Walaa A.E. Mohammad — 2024-10-02

Pigeon paramyxovirus type 1 (PPMV-1) is a serious pathogen facing the pigeon industry. Thus, this study aimed to preparation and evaluation of two inactivated vaccines using Carbopol and Aluminum hydroxide-based adjuvants to control such a problem. A total of 45- four weeks old, apparently healthy pigeons were allocated into 3 groups (15 birds each) as follow: group 1 (G1) received 0.5 ml, S/C Carbopol adjuvanted vaccine, group 2 (G2), received 0.5 ml S/C of aluminum hydroxide-based vaccine, group 3 (G3) received 0.5 ml S/C sterile saline and kept as control group. Five serum samples were obtained from each bird weekly post vaccination to measure anti-PPMV-1 antibodies using HI test. At 35 days post immunization, all vaccinated pigeons were challenged with 20µl containing 10⁶EID50/bird of PPMV-1 YA/14 strain by eye drop route, all pigeons were kept under observation for 10 days during the observation period any clinical signs or moralities were recorded also, cloacal swabs were collected 4-, 7- and 10-days post challenge to measure the shedding level. The potency test revealed that the prepared inactivated vaccine (PPMV-1) with synthetic polymeric adjuvants were potent and efficient. By studying the elicited serum antibody dynamics in vaccinated pigeon using HI test showed that antibody, the beak antibody titer reached by the 4^th week post immunization (6 and 5 log 2) for both G1 and G2 respectively (but G1 is significantly increase than G2) and continued to the 5th week where it reaches 6.5 and 5.6 log2 for both groups in order. (G1 is significantly increase than G2), which indicated that the PPMV-1 inactivated vaccine in both G1 and G2, results in systemic adjuvant activity, including a long-lasting protective immune response after a single dose administration without any adverse reaction. G1 and G2 showed the lowest shedding level that was zero at the 10^th day post challenge and the overall reduction level of both vaccinated groups was 4.9 and 4.5 for both G1 and G2, respectively. However, the prepared inactivated PPMV-1 Carbopol based vaccine is safe and could significantly poses the immune response more effectively than the aluminum hydroxide-based vaccine.

Efficacy of Moringa oleifera, lactoferrin and Syner-tox in counteracting aflatoxin effects in broiler chickens

Marwa F. Hassan — 2024-10-02

The main strategy in poultry production, is the elimination of mycotoxin adverse impacts. The present study was designed to evaluate the efficiency of Moringa oleifera (MO), Lactoferrin (LF), and Syner-tox (ST) in preventing the adverse impact of aflatoxin (AF). 180 eight-day-old broiler chicks divided into nine equal groups (20 each) as follows: Gp1 served as normal non-treated group, Gp2 served as AF non-treated group, Gp3 served as AF + MO treated group, Gp4 served as AF + LF treated group, Gp5 served as AF + ST treated group, Gp6 served as AF + MO + ST treated group, Gp7 served as AF + LF+ ST treated group, Gp8 served as AF + MO + LF treated group, Gp9 served as AF + MO + LF + ST treated group. The used dose of AF was 0.25 mg/kg diet, MO was 3 g/kg diet, LF was 250 mg/kg diet and ST 0.5 ml/liter/5days/week for 4 weeks. A significant reduce in growth performance, many hematological indices, and free amino acid along with modification in antioxidant markers. Conversely, increase in serum nitric oxide, liver and kidney biomarkers and malondialdehyde in liver contents with histopathological changs were observed in AF non-treated. The supplementation of MO, LF and/or ST showed strong antioxidant properties. Furthermore, these treatments enhanced the chickens' immune systems and restored all histopathological alters recorded in AF non-treated Gp. Therefore, the use of MO and LF the elemination of aflatoxins in poultry feed is suggested as it is cheap and safe.

Application of sodium caseinate and Aloe vera gel coatings as novel technologies to improve the sensory and physicochemical quality indices of tilapia fish (Oreochromis niloticus) fillets during chilled storage

Donia O. Abdel Gawad — 2024-10-02

In the current study, tilapia fish fillets were preserved by the application of natural coats (sodium caseinate and Aloe vera gel) to investigate their effects on the organoleptic and physiochemical attributes of fish fillets kept at 4°C for 7 days. The results revealed that the A. vera gel coat possessed lower pH and higher scavenging activity than caseinate. The application of both coats on fish fillets led to an improvement in all sensory scores when compared to the control, as its scores became unacceptable on the 5^th day of chilling, whereas the coated groups remained acceptable until the 7^th day of storage. Moreover, coating of fish fillets resulted in increased moisture and redness (a*) values and decreased fat, ash, TBARS, TVBN, cooking loss, shear force, lightness (L*), and yellowness (b*) values compared to the control group. When comparing the two applied coats, A. vera gel application was accompanied by an enhancement in all examined parameters compared with the sodium caseinate coat, although the protein of fish fillets was enhanced mainly by coating with sodium caseinate. Therefore, coating fish fillets with sodium caseinate or A. vera gel can easily be used by food processors as a novel technique to improve the quality and extend the shelf life of fish fillets.

Antibacterial potential of black seed oil and its nanoemulsion against Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella Typhimurium in yoghurt

Sahar M. Kamal — 2024-10-02

The current study aimed to evaluate the antibacterial efficacy of black seed oil (BSO) and its nanoemulsion (BSO-NE) against two foodborne pathogens, Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella Typhimurium, during the processing and storage of yoghurt. Additionally, the sensory properties of the resulting yoghurt were assessed. Firstly, BSO-NE was prepared and characterized using zeta-sizer and Transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Then, the antibacterial activity and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) were determined via a resazurin-based microtiter dilution assay. Fresh buffalo’s milk was inoculated with L. monocytogenes and Salmonella Typhimurium (1×10⁵ CFU/ml) with the addition of either BSO or BSO-NE. The inoculated milk was then used for yoghurt making. The organoleptic properties and bacterial load of the obtained yoghurt were evaluated during storage in comparison to a control group. This study elucidated that BSO can be successfully produced in a nanoemulsion form, exhibiting acceptable particle size, stability, and morphology. The results demonstrated a strong antibacterial activity of BSO-NE (3.125 mg/mL) against both L. monocytogenes and Salmonella Typhimurium compared to the control and pure oil groups. Notably, complete eradication of L. monocytogenes and Salmonella Typhimurium was observed in yoghurt formulated with BSO-NE on the 8th day of storage. Interestingly, the antibacterial effect of BSO and BSO-NE on Salmonella Typhimurium was approximately similar throughout the experiment. Moreover, the results indicated that the addition of BSO-NE to yoghurt enhanced its organoleptic properties. Overall, these findings suggest that yoghurt can be fortified with BSO-NE to prevent bacterial contamination by L. monocytogenes and Salmonella Typhimurium in the dairy industry.

Impact of olive leaf extract coating chitosan on Bacillus cereus and its toxins in refrigerated beef burger

Aalaa S.A. Saad — 2024-10-02

This study aimed to examine the impact of olive leaf extract (OL-E) and olive leaf extract coating chitosan (OL-Ch) on Bacillus cereus and its toxin genes, as well as, the sensory qualities of refrigerated beef burgers. The primary phenolic components of olive leaf extract were oleeuropein and protocatechuic acid, identified by HPLC-DAD analysis. The concentrations of OL-E and OL-Ch that were in vitro effective against B. cereus were 62.5 mg/mL and 125 mg/mL, respectively. In burgers treated with OL-E and OL-Ch, viable B. cereus dramatically decreased (p < 0.05) over time during cold storage. The count decreased to 2 log CFU/g in the OL-E group and 1.3 log CFU/g in the OL-Ch group after thirteen days of preservation. The entFM gene expression levels on day thirteen were 0.09 in the OL-Ch group and 0.2 in the OL-E group. Conversely, the cytK gene expression levels in the OL-E and OL-Ch groups were 0.09 and 0.15, respectively. Both supplements could control physicochemical characteristics (pH, volatile basic nitrogen (TVBN), and thiobarbituric acid (TBA)) to be 6.12±1.55, 16.1±2.98, and 0.869±0.28, respectively, in the OL-E group during a storage period. Moreover, they were 5.79, 14.3±2.79, and 0.816±0.31 in the OL-Ch group. They also did not appear to affect the average sensory score of burgers. Thus OL-E and OL-Ch could be used as natural food additives to prevent B. cereus contamination in the meat industry.

Protective and therapeutic effects of empagliflozin in nephrotoxicity induced by 5-Fluorouracil in rats: Role of caspase-3, inflammation and oxidative stress

Mohamed Elbadr — 2024-10-02

Empagliflozin (EMPA) is a glucose-lowering agent that is widely used for treatment of diabetes mellitus and diabetic nephropathy. This work aimed to evaluate the therapeutic and prophylactic effects of EMPA and NAC in treating nephrotoxicity caused by 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) in male Albino Wistar rats. 48 rats were divided into 6 groups: The first group used as negative control. The second received 20 mg/kg of 5-FU intraperitoneally for 6 days. The third group received 5-FU plus 10 mg/kg EMPA orally for 10 days. The fourth group received EMPA 10 days before the injection of 5-FU. The fifth group received 5-FU plus N-acetylcysteine (NAC) 40 mg/kg. The sixth group received 5-FU, NAC plus EMPA. Biochemical evaluation for urea, creatinine, uric acid, albumin, TNF-α and IL-1β in serum and GSH and MDA in renal homogenate were done. Histopathological examination of kidneys was done with immunohistochemical analysis of caspase-3. The nephrotoxic effect of 5‑FU was characterized by elevation of creatinine, urea, uric acid, MDA, TNF-α and IL-1β with reduction of albumin and GSH. EMPA caused improvement in kidney status especially when used therapeutically or with NAC. The immunohistochemical analysis showed that EMPA caused a reduction in the expression of caspase-3. EMPA is an effective drug in cases of 5-FU induced nephrotoxicity. It is more effective when used as a treatment rather than a prophylactic strategy. The effect of EMPA is enhanced when combined with NAC. EMPA nephroprotective effect is mediated via antioxidant, antiinflammatory effects and by decreasing the expression of renal caspase-3.

Utilizing some structural protein-encoding genes, virion antigens, and hemagglutination property of rotavirus for investigation of the viral infection in bovine

Minh Duc LE — 2024-10-02

The genus Rotavirus (RV) has been reported as zoonotic, highly prevalent in diarrheic neonates, and possibly activated by gestation. Searching RV prevalence in bovines and checking its presence during convalescence of the animals from the illness are useful for One-Health management. Tests detecting specific genes encoding the virus’ capsid VP6 and VP4 with Reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR) amplification as well as virus antigens with both Immuno-chromatographic assay (ICA) and Shifting assay of standardized direct hemagglutination inhibition (SSDHI) in fecal samples taken individually from both diarrheic and healthy calves and pregnant cows were implemented. The tests showed low percentages of diarrheic calves infected with the virus, implying insignificant contribution of the virus in bovine diarrhea. However, ICA tests which were then performed for checking the virus in feces of a genetically and antigenically proven infected diarrheic calf daily during the course of illness and daily through a week after diarrhea stopped showed that the virus had a role in causing the illness. Meanwhile, specific antibody titration with hemagglutination inhibition (HI) reactions implemented with serum samples of locally reared slaughtered and live cattle showed a significantly (P = 0.0008) higher rate of the virus infection. The outcomes of the tests showed that application of the system of HA-HI-SSDHI with the use of RotaTeq vaccine is feasible in investigation of RV though the targets are restricted to bovine-specific P[8] strains.

Effect of implementation levels of biosecurity measures and genetic type on the epidemio-zootechnical characteristics of farmed Clarias gariepinus (Burchell, 1822)

Georges Fonkwa — 2024-10-03

Fish diseases and inbreeding are among the factors limiting fish production. The present study aimed to assess the effect of biosecurity measures implementation levels (BMIL) and genetic type on epidemiological and zootechnical characteristics in hatcheries, in order to contribute to healthy and sustainable fish farming. Crosses (Beninese males x Cameroonian females and Cameroonian males x Cameroonian females) were carried out between two strains of domestic broodstock. The epidemiozootechnical characteristics evaluated (mortality rate, prevalence of pathologies, fertilization rate, hatching rate, productivity and economic profitability) were subjected to descriptive statistics, Student's t-test and two-factor analysis of variance. The resulting larvae were distributed in duplicate to three hatcheries, in which biosecurity measures were selectively applied to obtain the desired BMILs (low, medium and high) for each hatchery. As results, the highest mortality rate (100%) was recorded in the hatchery where the BMIL was low, then decreased significantly in crossbreds for both medium and high BMILs. Apart from fish deformities, the prevalence of other pathologies (anorexia and abnormal swimming) decreased significantly with BMIL. The prevalence of pathologies was about two times significantly higher for the pure strain than for the crossbreds. Fertilization and hatching rates dropped significantly with BMIL, with hybrid cross recording the highest values. Productivity and economic profitability increased significantly with BMIL. Values were 16 and 2 times higher in crossbreds than in the pure strain for medium and high BMIL respectively. Overall, the increase in BMIL and the use of genetic types have improved the epidemio-zootechnical characteristics of Clarias gariepinus in hatcheries. Fish farmers need to focus on biosecurity measures and use crossbreds from the Cameroon x Benin cross for optimum production.

Molecular investigation and potential risks associated with Streptococcus equi infection in horses with upper respiratory tract infection

Manar Alessa — 2024-10-04

The aim of the present study was to conduct molecular investigation and potential risks associated with Streptococcus equi infection in horses with upper respiratory tract infection. For this aim, sixty-nine horses were used (50 diseased and 19 apparently healthy). Horses under investigation were subjected to clinical examination and bacteriological investigation of nasal swabs. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for confirmatory identification of Streptococcus equi subspecies equi came to match the isolation percentage on its selective medium. For Streptococcus equi subspecies equi, sodA and seeI genes were detected at molecular weights of 235 bp and 520 bp, respectively. There was a significant (P value <0.05) association between breed, use, vaccination, number of affected animals in the premises, over-crowding and climatic conditions and the isolation frequency of Streptococcus equi subspecies Equi infection. The highest percentage of isolation was recorded in Arabian horses (32/53; 60.4%) compared with other breeds (21/53; 39.6%). Horses kept for racing or showing revealed higher isolation percentage (32/53; 60.4%) compared with draft horses that showed isolation percentage of (21/53; 39.6%). Vaccinated horses also showed a higher rate of isolation (29/53; 54.7%), compared with non-vaccinated ones (24/53;45.3%). The results of the present study highlighted the potential risk factors associated with S. equi subspecies equi in horses with upper respiratory tract infection. The present finding may support the authorities to construct strict preventive measures for this infection.

In vivo and in vitro assessment of the anti-mycoplasma activity of Curcumin nanoparticles and their impact on health and performance of broiler chickens

Mohamed Shakal — 2024-10-04

Globally, the poultry production industry is growing at a rapid pace. Mycoplasma is a disease that causes an enormous financial loss to the poultry farming industry. Lately, there have been reports of avian mycoplasmosis resistance to multiple antibiotics especially macrolides. Thus, the purpose of this work was to assess the antibacterial activity of curcumin nanoparticles (Curcumin-NPs) against Mycoplasma synoviae (MS) and Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG) in vitro and in vivo as a possible alternative for antibiotics. In vitro investigations were used to determine the curcumin-NPs' minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) versus MG and MS. To conduct in vivo research, 216 birds were divided into nine groups, each consisting of 24 birds in triplicate and 8 birds apiece. The groups were as follows: G1 was given an MG challenge; G2 received an MG challenge and 0.5% curcumin-NPs; G3 received an MG challenge and 1% curcumin-NPs; G4 MG challenged and treated with tilmicosin, G5 challenged with MS; G6 infected with MS and supplied with 0.5% curcumin-NPs; G7 infected with MS and supplied with 1% curcumin-NPs; G8 received an MS challenge and treated with tilmicosin and G9 were the control negative group. The conclusion is that Curcumin-NPs demonstrated in vitro anti-mycoplasma activities; adding 1% curcumin-NPs to the drinking water for five days was a much more potent treatment than adding 0.5% curcumin-NPs and tilmicosin for the control of MG and MS infections in broiler chickens; the treated birds showed improved lipid profiles, better FCR, body weight gain, and a noticeable decrease in the sternness of clinical manifestations as well as lesions score. Additionally, a notable enhancement in renal function (urea & creatinine), hepatic enzymes (ALT & AST), and antioxidant status (Catalase, GSH, and MDA). There has also been a notable advancement in lipid profile. For five days, the use of 1% curcumin-NPs in the drinking water is advised as a secure and efficient treatment for avian mycoplasmosis in broiler chickens.

Nutritional and physiological influences of dietary supplementation of garlic oil on alleviating heat stress impact in broiler chickens

Mostafa G. Abdelfattah — 2024-10-06

This study evaluated impact of dietary supplementation with garlic oil (GO) on growth performance and alleviation of heat stress (HS) impact in broiler chickens. A total of 240 one-day old Cobb broilers were randomly assigned to four treatments, each with six replicates of 10 birds. Treatment one (-Control) was offered a basal diet (BD) and raised under thermo-neutral temperature throughout the experiment (42 days), while Treatment 2 (+Cont) received BD throughout the experimental period, and raised under thermoneutral temperatures during the experiment weeks, but subjected to HS during the fifth week. Treatments 3 and 4 were exposed to the same HS during the fifth week and fed a BD supplemented with 5 g GO/kg, and 15g GO/kg throughout the experimental period. Compared to the thermoneutral control, the heat-stressed control displayed a lower growth performance, in terms of decreased feed intake, higher feed conversion ratio, higher mortality, altered serum metabolites, and lower antioxidative activity. Both GO treatments resulted in deteriorated growth performance compared to the thermoneutral control and relatively worse than the CHS control (P > 0.05). The GO treatments reduced serum triglycerides, cholesterol, and malondialdehyde concentrations, but enhanced glutathione peroxidase activity and total antioxidant capacity compared to HS control. The two GO treatments exhibited significantly higher villus length/crypt depth ratio than the thermoneutral control. In conclusion, GO treatments displayed poor growth performance results, but enhanced the serum antioxidant properties under the study conditions.

Genetic characterization of velogenic and lentogenic Newcastle disease viruses circulating among broiler chickens in Al-wadi Al-gadid Governorate, Egypt (2021)

Amani Osman — 2024-10-07

The present study aimed to investigate circulated Newcastle disease virus (NDV) genotypes, and avian influenza virus (AIV) co-infection among chicken flocks receiving NDV vaccines in Al-Wadi Al-Gadid governorate, Egypt. Ninety-eight clinical samples were collected from diseased chickens in 10 chicken farms during 2021. The virus propagation in embryonated chicken eggs was confirmed serologically by hemagglutination and hemagglutination inhibition tests and molecularly by RT-PCR using specific primers of the Fusion (F) gene and matrix gene of AIV. The results revealed that 15 isolates were NDV-positive, of them, four were AIV co-infected. The F genes amino acid sequence alignments for selected six isolates indicated two cleavage site motifs characteristic to lentogenic (1) and velogenic (5) strains. Also, specific amino acid substitutions in F1 and HRa regions correlated to fusion activity and neutralizing antibody production in the present velogenic isolates were observed. Phylogenetic analysis of the partial F gene sequences revealed the circulation of two genotypes, GII and GVII.1.1 (VIIj), in class II circulating among vaccinated chicken flocks in Al-Wadi Al-Gadid governorate. In addition, velogenic isolates are segregated into a distinct sub-clade from NDVs isolated in southern and northern Egypt. In conclusion, this is the first report on the genetic characterization of NDV among vaccinated chicken flocks in Al-Wadi Al-Gadid governorate. The current data will contribute to the NDV endemicity, genetic evolution, and biosecurity measurements to overcome NDV infection in this promising area for poultry production.

The ameliorative effects of bee bread supplement on the ovarian dysfunction induced by high-fat diet: Comparison with S. officinalis and shifting to normal diet supplement

Ghada M. Ezzat — 2024-10-08

Bee bread, a naturally fermented bee product, could alleviate obesity-related disorders but its protective role against high-fat diet (HFD)-induced ovarian dysfunction has not been studied yet. Thirty-eight Wister albino female rats were divided into control and HFD groups. The control group (n=7) received a normal diet for 14 weeks whereas HFD group was supplemented with 40% HFD for 10 weeks and then subdivided into 4 subgroups that received either HFD or HFD and S. Officinalis (300 mg/kg) or HFD and bee bread (0.5 gm/kg) or normal diet for another 4 weeks. Histopathological examination of ovarian tissues was done. The estrus cycle, final body weight, lipid profile, fasting serum glucose, and reproductive hormone levels were investigated. mRNA expression of TNF-α and IL-6 in the blood and the ovarian cytochrome P450 family 17 subfamily A member 1 (CYP17A1), cyclin D1(CCND1) and autophagy-related protein-5 (Atg5) were determined. Immunohistochemical assessment of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors gamma (PPAR????), and caspase-3 was done in all groups. Irregular estrous cycle altered folliculogenesis and reproductive hormones, dyslipidemia, and increased body weight were detected in HFD group. Also, upregulation of NF-κB, TNF-α, IL-6 and caspase -3 expressions, and downregulation of CCDN1, Atg5 and PPAR???? were observed in HFD group. Bee bread, S. officinalis and to a lesser extent normal diet supplements bee bread improved ovarian dysfunction induced by HFD by inducing autophagy and steroidogenic genes and inhibiting inflammation and apoptosis. Bee bread and S. officinalis could be protective agents against ovarian dysfunction and obesity induced by HFD.

Assessment of fatty acid content and lipid nutritional quality indicators for some cheese kinds using gas chromatography‒mass spectrometry

Zeinab I. Ali — 2024-10-11

This study aimed to compare the fatty acid composition and determine the lipid quality indices of some hard and semihard cheese varieties sold in Egyptian markets, namely, Ras, Cheddar, and Gouda cheeses. The fatty acid profile of fifteen cheese samples was analyzed using gas chromatography‒mass spectrometry (GC‒MS). Moreover, the atherogenic index (AI), thrombogenic index (TI), and nutritional value index (NVI) were calculated. The analysis revealed the presence of 22 fatty acids in the cheese samples, with palmitic and myristic acids being the dominant saturated fatty acids (SFAs), while oleic and linoleic acids were the main unsaturated fatty acids (UFAs). Regarding the presence of trans fatty acids, the oleic acid trans isomer (C18:1n9, t) was detected in some samples, with the highest mean value in the Ras cheese (0.23). Cheddar cheese recorded the lowest AI and TI and the highest NVI, suggesting that it has greater nutritive value than the other two cheese types. Ras and Gouda cheese samples were moderate to high AI and TI, indicating a potential risk of cardiovascular diseases. This research offers valuable insights for cheese producers and consumers concerning the lipid quality indices and fatty acid profiles of the examined cheese varieties and how the lipid content impacts the cheese quality and human health.

A meta-analysis of bovine tuberculosis in Indonesia: a concerning zoonotic disease

Dian Meididewi Nuraini — 2024-10-13

Bovine tuberculosis (bTB) is a zoonotic disease with high economic impact and public health concern. However, the understanding of bTB in Indonesia is limited. Thus, this study aims to to estimate the pooled prevalence of bTB in cattle in Indonesia using a meta-analysis. Five online databases were searched for related articles. The articles were screened by two independent reviewers following the inclusion criteria. The included studies went through quality assessment using five pre-determined question. The necessary data were extracted and analysed using random effect model in R studio 4.3.0 with “meta” R package to estimate the pooled prevalence, heterogeneity level, and risk of publication bias. Subgroup meta-analysis was conducted for subgroup diagnostic method and Mycobacterium species. The results showed that six studies fit in inclusion criteria, representing 711 samples. The quality assessment showed the included studies were good quality. The estimated pooled prevalence of bTB in Indonesia was 9.71% (95% CI, 1.47-43.69%) with high heterogeneity. Based on subgroup meta-analysis, no significant different was found in between non-molecular and molecular diagnostic methods (10.55% [95% CI, 0.48-42.03] vs 6.43 [95% CI, 1.64-22.11], p = 0.92). Similarly, between M. bovis and M. tuberculosis, no significant different prevalence was found (2.04% [95% CI, 0.38-10.13] vs 6.55% [95% CI, 0.15-76.17], p= 0.57). The risk of bias assessment showed no indication of severe publication bias. This study indicates the necessity of bTB active surveillance and epidemiological study in Indonesia. Furthermore, a control and preventive strategy for zoonotic transmission mitigation should be developed.

Effect of dietary probiotic supplementation on blood parameters, behavior and health performance of broilers

Mona A. M. El Sayed — 2024-10-16

The present study was designed to evaluate the effects of probiotic (Bacillus subtilis) addition on behaviour, some health indicators and intestinal histology of broiler chickens. 210 one day old Broiler chicken was supplied by diets with probiotics at concentrations of 0 (control), 0.25 (0.25X), and 0.5 (0.5X) g/kg. Also,4 days old, blood samples were collected for measuring liver and kidney function tests, also microbial analysis, internal morphology, and relative and absolute weight of some internal organs were done. In comparison with control, probiotics had no significant effect on broiler chickens’ behavior, however, birds fed 0.25X had the highest percentage of feeding behavior among the experimental groups. Furthermore, probiotic treated groups had higher absolute weights of heart, spleen, liver, intestine and gizzard while the relative weights were not changed. Also, the lactobacillus population increased while the total bacterial count decreased in probiotic-fed groups. Moreover, probiotics increased duodenum villus width and height and enhanced jejunum villus width, height, and villus height/crypt depth. In addition, it did not affect the levels of total, indirect and direct bilirubin, albumin, total protein, globulin, and albumin: globulin ratio and alkaline phosphatase regardless of its dose. The findings imply that the probiotic dietary supplement effect based on its dose and that probiotic (Clostat ™) improved broilers health under normal condition and may prove to be an important way for possibly protection the health of broiler chickens.

Effect of dietary supplementation of bamboo leaves extract on behaviors, performance and some blood parameters of bill-trimmed mule ducks

Shaimaa Matoq — 2024-10-17

Bamboo leaf extract (BLE) has been shown to exhibit physiological actions in mammals. So, the objective of this study was to investigate the effects of dietary supplementation of BLE on performance, behavior, stress indicators, antioxidant activity, and liver and kidney function of bill trimmed mule ducks. One hundred- and twenty- mule ducklings (one day old) were randomly distributed among 24 pens (5 birds / pen), each pen was randomly assigned to one of four dietary groups containing a BLE at 0 (CONT), 0 (BT-CONT), 1.0 (BT-BLE1), and 2.0 (BT-BLE2). Except for the CONT group, all birds were exposed to bill cutting on day 21. Serum corticosterone was analyzed by ELISA kits and other serum physiological parameters were assayed by spectrophotometer. Bamboo leaf extract decreased wall pecking, feather pecking, and aggressive pecking behavior and improved preening (P < 0.05) but had no effect on feeding, drinking, walking, standing and resting activities (P > 0.05). Serum catalase, superoxide dismutase (SOD), total protein and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were higher in BLE fed groups and CONT birds than BT-CONT groups (P < 0.05). However, there were no significant differences in performance parameters, serum albumin, urea, creatinine, and glucose between all the treatments (P > 0.05). Moreover, serum corticosterone was lower in BLE fed groups in comparison with the BT-CONT (P < 0.05). These findings imply that the BLE may be able to mitigate the detrimental effects of bill trimming on the health of mule ducks through the regulation of stress reactions, and improvement of antioxidant status.