Veterinary Integrative Sciences

Current strategies, advances, and challenges in multi-epitope subunit vaccine development for African swine fever virus

Ella Mae Joy S. Sira — 2024-04-25

African Swine Fever (ASF), a highly contagious and lethal viral disease affecting swine populations, presents a critical global threat with no approved vaccine. Traditional approaches such as whole virus-based vaccines have several limitations, prompting interest in peptide-based subunit vaccines. However, the inefficacy of existing peptides and the complexity of the ASFV genome further complicate antigen screening. Immunoinformatics has addressed this challenge by utilizing bioinformatics tools for the design and evaluation of multi-epitope subunit vaccines. Although multi-epitope subunit vaccines offer safety advantages, their potential to induce both humoral and cellular immune responses is crucial for protective immunity against ASFV infection. Despite the growing interest in computational vaccine design, a notable gap exists in in vivo confirmation studies. This review addresses the challenges and advances in ASFV multi-epitope subunit vaccine development, underlining the urgency of a safe and effective vaccine given ASF's global impact on swine populations and associated economic losses.

Meta-analysis of laying hen performance and egg quality characteristics in response to Spirulina supplementation

Sadid Muhammad Maulana — 2024-05-28

Because of its essential and beneficial nutritional content, the utilization of Spirulina in the layer chicken diet has received more attention nowadays. The meta-analysis in this study aimed to ascertain the efficacy of dietary Spirulina on feed intake (FI), feed conversion ratio (FCR), laying rate (LR), and egg quality in laying hens. The analysis drew upon nineteen (19) publications identified across PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases, collectively utilizing the varied search mechanisms therein. The data from these 19 trials underwent analysis using random-effects models within the OpenMEE software. The standardized mean difference (SMD) with its accompanying 95% confidence interval was unveiled as the result. The findings revealed a significant improvement in FCR (SMD = -2.233; p<0.001), LR (SMD=2.290; p<0.001), egg weight (SMD=1.551; p<0.001), eggshell thickness (SMD=1.223; p<0.001), yolk colour (SMD=10.659; p<0.001), haugh unit (SMD=2.189; p<0.001), and a reduction in yolk cholesterol concentration (SMD=-0.964; p<0.001). The results for FI (SMD=0.776; p=0.074) and yolk weight (SMD=0.367; p=0.075) were compared to the control group. The meta-analysis unveiled considerable variation among the included papers, indicating high heterogeneity. The meta-regression uncovered that the factors scrutinized in the research—namely, a hen's age, inclusion level, and duration of treatment—greatly impacted the divergences observed in this meta-analysis and substantially accounted for its outcomes. The current meta-analysis concluded that dietary supplementation of Spirulina in laying hens could improve the performance and egg quality characteristics.

The Protein Biomarkers of Feline Mammary Carcinoma

Wajahat Masood — 2024-05-30

Feline mammary carcinoma (FMC) is a prevalent aggressive malignancy in cats, characterized by a poor prognosis and limited treatment options beyond mastectomy. This review explores the significance of various protein biomarkers, including HER2, BCL-2, RON, Ki 67, and COX-2, in diagnosing and treating FMC in cats. Early diagnosis and treatment due to the aggressive nature of FMC is important, which often leads to limited therapeutic options and poor responses in later stages. Biomarkers play a crucial role in improving diagnostic accuracy, guiding therapeutic decisions, and monitoring disease progression in cats with FMC. The review highlights the potential of biomarkers to revolutionize diagnostic approaches in veterinary clinics, offering a more targeted and effective strategy for managing feline mammary carcinomas.

Multiplex PCR for simultaneous identification and differentiation of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus pseudintermedius isolated from dogs

Nguyen Pham Thao Nhi — 2024-03-14

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius (MRSP) are opportunistic pathogens that cause significant diseases in both human and veterinary medicine, particularly in pet animals. In recent decades, the emergence of MRSA and MRSP in pet animals has raised substantial public health concerns due to the high multidrug resistance exhibited by these zoonotic bacteria. Therefore, a rapid and accurate diagnosis is crucial as one of the key strategies for controlling infections caused by MRSA and MRSP. In this study, we applied a simple and cost-effective DNA extraction method, establishing a multiplex PCR assay for the identification and differentiation of MRSA and MRSP isolated from dogs in Vietnam. The results of this study indicate that DNA extraction of MRSA and MRSP using the Tris-EDTA-NaCl-Triton X100 (TENT) method yielded comparable efficacy to using a commercial DNA extraction kit, and the TENT method proved to be more cost-effective. Additionally, a multiplex PCR assay with four primer pairs (27F/1492R, mecA_F/mecA_R, au-F3/au-nucR, and pse-F2/pse-R5) successfully identified and discriminated between MRSA and MRSP. The multiplex PCR demonstrated high specificity with the desired amplification of targeted amplicons and no cross-reactions. Furthermore, the applicability of the diagnostic procedure was demonstrated by identifying field MRSA and MRSP isolated from clinical samples of dogs in Vietnam. Our study, therefore, provides an effective identification procedure for MRSA and MRSP, serving as a prompt countermeasure against the rapid emergence of MRSA and MRSP in Vietnam

Effects of polymorphisms in PIT1, H-FABP, PIK3C3 and CAST genes on chemical composition, amino acid content in meat of Vietnamese indigenous fatty pig breed “I”

Phan Thi Tuoi — 2024-03-26

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of polymorphisms of PIT1/RasI, H-FABP/HinfI, PIK3C3/Hpy8I, CAST/HinfI genes and gender on chemical composition, amino acid content in meat of Vietnamese indigenous fatty pig breed “I” raised under industrial condition at Dabaco Breeding Pig Company, Phu Tho Province, Vietnam. Samples of longissimus dorsi muscle from 23 “I” pigs (12 gilts and 11 barrows) at 8 months of age were used to measure chemical composition (dry matter, protein, lipids and ash) and content of 17 amino acids (aspartic, glutamic, serine, histidine, glycine, threonine, alanine, arginine, tyrosine, valine, methionine, phenylalanine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, proline, cystine); while ear tissues were collected to identify polymorphisms of these genes. Chemical compositions were analyzed using ISO methods (1973, 1978, 1997, and 1998). The content of amino acids was quantified using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) methods. The polymorphisms of four genes were identified by the PCR-RFLP technique. The results indicated that PIT1, H-FABP, PIK3C3, and CAST had no effects on chemical compositions and amino acid contents (P>0.05). Inversely, the contents of amino acids (aspartic, serine, threonine, arginine, phenylalanine, leucine, and lysine) were significantly different between gilts and barrows (P<0.05).

Effect of By-Product from C-Phycocyanin Extraction as a Prebiotic Properties and Probiotic Microbial Population

Kannikar Hamprakorn — 2024-03-26

This study was designed to investigate the efficacy of alternative prebiotic supplements derived from phycocyanin extraction by-product in enhancing the growth of probiotic. These alternative prebiotic supplements included Spirulina platensis, the by-product of phycocyanin extraction, and inulin. The efficacy of alternative prebiotics was assessed using beneficial bacteria (Lactobacillus johnsonii ck-3 and ck-8), pathogenic bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli), and yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae). The alternative prebiotics source was used to analyse the chemical composition, prebiotic activity, and bacteria growth. It was demonstrated that the phycocyanin extraction by-product included a high concentration of crude protein (67.74% DM), carbohydrates (31.29% DM). The phycocyanin extraction by-product has a high content of glucose, fructose, and sucrose (63.55, 68.00, and 0.24 µg/ml, respectively). The phycocyanin extraction by-product has presented hydrolysis ability (in vitro) at 2.51% while S. platensis showed at 1.81 %. The composition of the phycocyanin extraction by-product showed similar activation of probiotic bacteria to inulin. Especially, Lactobacillus strain showed the best growth was achieved with the phycocyanin extraction by-product with decrease the final pH and high microbial colony number at 48 hours in 7.5–9.5 log10 colony-forming unit per milliliter (CFU/ml) when compared with the glucose group. The study results revealed that the phycocyanin extraction by-product with the prebiotic potential are effective at increasing numbers of Lactobacillus strain. Consequently, the study reveals that phycocyanin extraction by-product are effective as alternative prebiotic supplement, significantly enhancing beneficial probiotic bacteria. These findings suggest the potential use of phycocyanin extraction by-products in creating new prebiotic formulations for gut microbiota modulation through dietary

Development of multiplex polymerase chain reaction for the simultaneous detection of bovine mastitis-associated pathogens

Pennapa Takam — 2024-03-27

A multiplex polymerase chain reaction (mPCR) assay was developed for the simultaneous detection of five bovine mastitis-associated pathogens including Staphylococcus simulans, Staphylococcus hominis, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus agalactiae, and Streptococcus genus-specific group. Results showed that the optimal annealing temperature for mPCR was 58 °C. The sensitivity of mPCR to detect the least DNA template concentration was 0.625 ng. The nucleotide sequences of PCR products were identified using the NCBI database. Results showed 99.15-100% homology to the gap gene of Staphylococcus simulans, 100% homology to the peptidase gene of Staphylococcus hominis, 98.76-99.69% homology to the clumping factor A gene of Staphylococcus aureus, 99.09-99.64% homology to the CAMP factor gene of Streptococcus agalactiae, and 99.13% to the elongation factor tu gene of the Streptococcus genus-specific group. This developed mPCR technique showed potential as a rapid, specific, highly sensitive, and low-cost diagnostic tool for the simultaneous detection of bovine mastitis-associated pathogens.

Prevalence of antibiotic resistance genes of Escherichia coli at the pig slaughterhouses in the Mekong Delta

Ngo Van Thong — 2024-03-28

The study was conducted to determine the antimicrobial susceptibility and antibiotic-resistance genes of Escherichia coli at the pig slaughterhouses in the Mekong Delta, Vietnam. A total of 60 samples were collected at the slaughterhouse in the Mekong Delta, including 24 feces, 24 carcasses, 8 floors, and 4 wastewater samples. The prevalence of E. coli in feces, wastewater, carcasses, and floor samples was 91.67%, 50.00%, 29.17%, and 25.00%, respectively. A total of 79 E. coli isolates were examined for antimicrobial susceptibility to 15 antibiotics using the disc diffusion method according to CLSI 2021 guidelines. E. coli strains were highly resistant to amoxicillin (83.54%), ampicillin (78.48%), streptomycin (63.29%), and florfenicol (63.29%). However, those E. coli strains were sensitive to amoxicillin + acid clavulanic and amikacin (97.47%), cefaclor (95.45%), cefuroxime (93.67%), and enrofloxacin (92.41%). The results showed that 96.2% of examined E. coli strains were resistant from one antibiotic to eight antibiotics, and the most frequent multidrug-resistance phenotype was amoxicillin + ampicillin + florfenicol + streptomycin (13.92%). The prevalence of antibiotic resistance genes (strA, sulII, qnrA, tetA, blaampC, blaTEM, and blaCTX-M) in E. coli was determined by PCR. The prevalence of strA, sulII, qnrA, tetA, blaampC, and blaTEM genes in E. coli strains was 75.67%, 72.97%, 75.67%, 83.78%, 91.89%, and 83.78% respectively; however, blaCTX-M gene was not detected. Therefore, the contamination of E. coli exhibiting antibiotic resistance in pig slaughterhouses should be controlled to prevent public health.

Effect of supplementations in drinking water on growth performance, health status, and carcass quality of local Tre chickens

Nguyen Thi Thuy — 2024-03-28

A study was carried out to determine the effect of probiotic, multivitamin, and organic acid (acid butyric) supplementations in drinking water on growth performances, health status, and carcass quality of local chicken (Tre). A total of 480 Tre chickens at 4 weeks of age were randomly distributed in a completely randomized design experiment, with 4 treatments and 4 replicates (2 male and 2 female pens); each replicate consisted of a pen with 30 chickens/pen, the experimental data was collected during 10 weeks. Treatments used: (1) Control (Cont): Basal diet (B) without any supplementation; (2) PRO: B + 1% probiotic; (3) VIT: B+ 1% multivitamin product; (4) OA: B+1% butyric acid, all supplements were supplied in drinking water. The results showed the use of PRO had a significant highest in final weight (1032 g/ chicken) compared with control group (981.6 g/chicken), lead to better daily gain (ADG) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) (13.31 g/head/day and 3.02 g feed/g gain) to compare with the control group (12.5 g/head/day and 3.28 g feed/g gain) (P<0.05). Daily feed intake (FI) was not affected by all supplementations (P>0.05). VIT and PRO adding in drinking water reduced feather pecking, and there was a reduction of Salmonella spp. and E. coli in the feces of Tre chickens in PRO and OA compared with control chickens. All treatments did not affect the carcass yield of the birds, but little improvement in the yellow meat color (b*=8.48) of chickens in VIT and PRO compared to the others. In general, adding probiotics at the level of 1% in drinking water could be better for improving ADG and FCR compared with multivitamins, acid butyric, and control treatments; adding probiotic and organic acid reduced Salmonella spp. and E. coli in the feces, while multivitamin supplementation reduced feather pecking and improved yellow meat color of Tre chickens.

Effect of Aquilaria malaccensis leaves aqueous extract supplementation on testicular seminiferous tubules and testosterone level in adult male Sprague Dawley rats

Norahidah Zaidi — 2024-04-02

Phytochemical screening was performed on A. malaccensis leaves to assess their impact on testicular seminiferous tubule diameter (STD) and seminiferous epithelial height (SEH), as well as testosterone level in adult male Sprague Dawley rats. The study involved 24 male rats, divided into four groups: Control (C: 0 g A. malaccensis/kg body weight, n=6), Treatment 1 (T1: 1 g A. malaccensis/kg body weight, n=6), Treatment 2 (T2: 2 g A. malaccensis/kg body weight, n=6), and Treatment 3 (T3: 3 g A. malaccensis/kg body weight, n=6), respectively. The extract of A. malaccensis leaves was administered orally once daily for 28 days and the rats were euthanized on Day 29 to assess their reproductive function. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of various compounds in A. malaccensis leaves, including tannins, saponins, glycosides, flavonoids, terpenoids, steroids, and alkaloids. No significant differences were found in STD and SEH between the Control and Treated groups. A significant increase in testosterone level was observed in the T1 group (1.18 ng/mL) when compared to the C group. Incremental dosage of A. malaccensis appeared to significantly decrease testosterone level (0.92 ng/mL). No correlation was observed between the testicular seminiferous tubules and testosterone level. In conclusion, doses of 1, 2, and 3 g/kg of A. malaccensis did not appear to affect the seminiferous tubules of the testis. Specifically, 1 g/kg of A. malaccensis demonstrated potential benefits for male reproduction by elevating testosterone levels, whereas 2 and 3 g/kg exhibited potential harm by decreasing testosterone levels in male rats.

The effect of tropical alfalfa (Medicago sativa L. cv Kacang Ratu BW) supplementation on performance, intestinal histomorphology, and nutrient digestibility in hybrid ducks

Makmun Murod — 2024-04-05

Tropical alfalfa is a legume nutritionally complete and palatable to poultry. Hybrid ducks are aquatic birds with a higher tolerance to fiber-sourced feed than other breeds. This study aimed to determine the effects of tropical alfalfa (Medicago sativa L. cv Kacang Ratu BW) or KRBW supplementation on growth performance, histomorphology, and nutrient digestibility. Seventy-five hybrid ducks were used in this study. The treatments included T1 (basal feed or control), T2 (4% KRBW supplementation in basal feed), T3 (8% KRBW supplementation in basal feed), and water was provided ad libitum. The KRBW supplement was prepared in powder. Data were collected based on performance including feed intake, final body weight gain, feed conversion ratio (FCR); digestible dry matter (DDM), digestible organic matter (DOM), digestible crude fiber (DCF), and digestible ether extract (DEE); and the histomorphology of the intestine (duodenum, jejunum, and ileum). All data obtained in this study were analyzed using a completely randomized design. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 27 software. The results of this study showed that KRBW supplementation significantly decreased body weight gain. In contrast, control and 4% KRBW supplementation rates had no effects compared with 8% KRBW supplementation on feed consumption. However, KRBW supplementation had no significant effect on the FCR. Supplementation with 4% and 8% significantly decreased the DDM, DOM, DCF, and DEE. Furthermore, KRBW supplementation affected the histomorphology of the villi surface area in the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum. It could be concluded that the KRBW supplement reduced performance, intestinal histomorphology, and nutrient digestibility in hybrid ducks.

Effect of diet and MC4R genotype on nutrient digestibility and nitrogen balance in Kacang goats

Kustantinah Adiwimarta — 2024-04-22

This study aims to determine the effect of the relationship between feed treatment and Melanocortin 4 receptor (MC4R) genotypes on nutrient digestibility and nitrogen balance in Kacang goats. Blood samples were collected from 20 Kacang goats, and genomic DNA was extracted by using a Geneaid isolation kit. Polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) was used to genotype blood samples at the SNP position g.1079C/T cut by the KpnI enzyme. A 2 × 3 factorial design with two diet factors (diets 1 and 2) and three genotypes (homozygotes CC and TT and heterozygote CT) was used. The diet 1 and 2 groups comprised 4 goats with the TT genotype, 4 goats with the CT genotype and 2 goats with the CC genotype. Diet 1 contained an additional 400 g of concentrate with 11.25% crude protein (CP) and 55.88% total digestible nutrient (TDN) and diet 2 contained a total mixed ration containing 12.46% CP and 67.92% TDN. Results demonstrated that diet and MC4R genotype had a nonsignificant interactive effect (P>0.05) on nutrient digestibility, N balance and blood composition. However, feed factor shown a significant result (P<0.05) on EEI, NDFI, DM, CP, EE, NDF, DM, CP, EE and NDF on TT genotype (P0) with the highest level than CC and CT genotype (P1). The P0 goat group absorbs a lot of nitrogen in the body, however the P1 goat group is able to utilize the nutrient efficiently in the body. Kacang goats with the TT genotype can be selected as livestock that excel in utilizing nutrients in feed

Isolation, molecular identification, and pathogenicity of Aeromonas hydrophila disease in clown knife fish (Chitala chitala) in the Mekong Delta, Vietnam

Tu Thanh Dung — 2024-04-24

Hemorrhagic septicemia disease caused by Aeromonas hydrophila bacteria appears to be more common and causes severe damage to many fish species worldwide. This research aimed to isolate, identify, and determine the pathogenicity and antibiotic susceptibility of A. hydrophila in septicemic clown knife (Chitala chitala) fish in the Mekong Delta, Vietnam. As a result, 116 bacterial strains were isolated from 176 septicemic fish samples. Two strains of bacteria, D2F71 and H1F39, were identified as A. hydrophila based on colony morphology, identification results by the API 20E kit, PCR technique, and aerolysin gene sequencing. In addition, these two strains of bacteria were experimentally infected on healthy clown knife fish (weight 15±4 g/fish) by injection method. The experimental results fulfilled Koch's postulates: infected fish showed signs of disease symptoms similar to those of naturally diseased fish. In particular, the two strains of bacteria D2F71 and H1F39 in the experiment had relatively high virulence, with LD50 values of 1.26×104 CFU/mL and 4.06×103 CFU/mL, respectively. The obtained findings demonstrated that the bacteria were susceptible to doxycycline, florfenicol, cefotaxime, flumequine, enrofloxacin, and sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim at a rate of over 70%. On the contrary, the study found that bacterial isolates were resistant to ampicillin (100%), cefazolin (85%), streptomycin (80%), and colistin (80%). To our knowledge, this is the first report on hemorrhagic septicemic clown knife fish caused by A. hydrophila in Vietnam.

Early-life development of spleen in white rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus): A morphometric and histochemical analysis

Omar Younis Altaey — 2024-04-25

The spleen's significant immunological and protective role has long inspired researchers to explore its developmental characteristics. This study intended to understand the splenic morphological developmental changes during postnatal life. Samples obtained form 25 (Oryctolagus cuniculus) white rabbits, divided into five age groups in :1, 10, 15, 30, and 90 postnatal days. The samples were measured to determine the length, breadth, thickness, and weight. afterward, the samples sectioned and stained using hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and Masson's trichrome stains (MTs). And for histochemical analysis, additional slides were stained with Periodic acid schiff (PAS) and Alcian blue (AB) 2.5 pH stains. The histological measurements included the thickness of the capsule and trabeculae, diameter of white pulp follicle, and central artery, and the ratio of white and red pulps. The macroscopic findings showed a significant increase in dimensional measurements. Histologically, the capsule and trabeculae exhibited thickening, and the diameter of the white pulp follicles and central arteries expanded. And the splenic sinuses enlarged with age progression. The histochemical evaluation revealed intense staining with PAS in the capsule, trabeculae, and walls of splenic arteries in first postnatal day group, with moderate staining affinity in the other groups. Furthermore, there was positive staining with AB in the white pulp follicles of the first postnatal day group compared to weaker staining affinity in the older age groups. This study demonstrated that the critical development period begins after birth and continues until 30 postnatal days. During this period, the development of the immune response triggers significant alterations in the spleen's structural, morphometric, and histochemical parameters.

The appropriate technique for blood pressure measurement in healthy geriatric cats using an automatic oscillometric device

Athicom Chin-on — 2024-04-29

Currently, the popularity of owning cats is increasing, together with improvements in diet, management, and veterinary specialism. The population of older cats has accordingly increased markedly. There are several health problems that accompany aging, such as degenerative diseases and cardiopulmonary disorders. Hypertension is the most common clinical sign that has been found in aging cats. Therefore, early screening for hypertension is necessary to prevent disease progression. However, cats are sensitive and are likely to develop mental stress during the measurement procedure, so an appropriate technique is required. The experiment was performed in 60 healthy elderly cats, whereby each cat was randomly assigned to one of the two trial groups. There were two groups in the experiment: 1) the cuff was placed on the forelimb at all times and the blood pressure was measured at 0, 5, 15, 30, and 60 minutes, and 2) the cuff was placed after waiting to rest at 30 and 60 minutes, followed by blood pressure measurement using the automatic oscillometric device. The results showed that blood pressure measurement at 15 minutes while placing the forelimb cuff at all times provided appropriate clinical reliability. Thus, this procedure could be used for hypertension screening in geriatric cats

Growth performance and carcass quality of Tre chickens raised in different levels of saline water

Nguyen Thuy Linh — 2024-05-16

This study aimed to find the effect of saline water on the growth performance and carcass characteristics of Tre chickens. A total of 150 Tre chickens was allotted in five treatments and three replicates per treatment. A completely randomized design was used for this study in which the birds from 4-14 weeks old had ad libitum access to feed and water in all treatments with five levels of salt (0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, and 0.8%). The results showed that the growth performance of Tre chicken was decreased when increased levels of salt in drinking water (P<0.05). The birds avoided drinking water from treatment with salt of 0.8% (P<0.05). The feed conversion ratio of birds was lowest at the treatment of 0 and 0.2%. Besides, carcass traits (carcass, breast, thigh, and gizzard weight) were decreased significantly when the level of salt in drinking water increased over 0.2% (P<0.05), but there were no significant differences between 0-0.2% salt in drinking water (P>0.05). Small intestine weight was longer at control treatment while large intestine was longer at treatment of 0.2% salt. Additionally, all examined criteria were decreased significantly with 0.4, 0.6, and 0.8% of salt in drinking water (P<0.05). It can be concluded that Tre chickens’ growth could tolerant the salinity in drinking water up to 0.2%. With over 0.2% salt in drinking water, chicken’s performance might be reduced.

Improving feed efficiency and antioxidant properties in Thai native chickens by supplementing Thai rice paddy herb (Limnophila aromatic (Lam.) Merr.) powder

Chaiwat Jekmadan — 2024-05-17

This study aimed to investigate the benefits of adding Thai rice paddy herb (Limnophila aromatic (Lam.) Merr.) powder to the diet of Thai native chickens. Using a randomized completely block design (RCBD), 200 mixed-gender chickens were assigned to groups that received varying amounts of rice paddy herb powder (RPHP): 0% (Control), 1% (RPHP1), 2% (RPHP2), and 3% (RPHP3), along with oxytetracycline (OTC) at 0.25% in the diet. The addition of RPHP to the diet did not result in significant changes in body weight, body weight gain, or average daily gain (P>0.05). When compared to the control group, the RPHP-supplemented group had significantly lower feed intake and feed conversion ratio (P<0.05). Both RPHP1 and RPHP2 groups had comparable total feed costs and benefit-cost ratios to the control group (P>0.05). In contrast, the inclusion of OTC increased total feed costs, resulting in a lower benefit-cost ratio (P<0.05). Carcass analysis revealed no significant effects from RPHP supplementation, whereas OTC significantly reduced spleen percentage and spleen index (P<0.05). Except for the lightness of breast meat, which decreased significantly in the RPHP2 group compared to the control group (P<0.05), meat quality did not differ significantly among treatment groups (P>0.05). Additionally, supplementation of RPHP, particularly RPHP3, increased SOD and T-AOC levels in meat while decreasing O2- and MDA levels (P<0.05). Taken together, these findings indicated that Thai native chickens fed Thai rice paddy herb powder increased feed efficiency without changing meat quality or carcass characteristics. The inclusion of RPHP at a concentration of 3% in the diet showed potential in enhancing the antioxidant properties of meat.

Effects of vitamin E, green tea polyphenols, and Ocimum gratissimum leaf essential oil as a supplement to extender on frozen-thawed canine sperm quality

Nguyen Van Vui — 2024-05-17

During cryopreservation, oxidative stress is a principal cause of reducing the quality of frozen canine sperm. To prolong the longevity of canine sperm, adding vitamin E, green tea polyphenols, and Ocimum gratissimum essential oil in the semen extender was fulfilled to assess the effects of these antioxidant substances on frozen canine sperm quality. A total of twelve ejaculates were collected from three American Bully dogs in this study. The sperm straws were frozen in a programmable freezer at a freezing rate of 5°C/min from 4 to -15°C and 20°C/min from -15 to -100°C. The sperm motility, mitochondrial membrane potential, plasma membrane, and acrosome membrane integrity parameters were used to evaluate the quality of canine sperm using computer-assisted sperm analysis and confocal laser scanning microscope. The sperm lipid peroxidation was conducted using a Thiobarbituric acid assay. The results presented that the canine frozen-thawed sperm motility parameters in all the treatments showed no remarkable difference (P>0.05). In addition, although the antioxidant activity of the vitamin E and green tea polyphenols were higher than that of the Ocimum gratissimum essential oil, the value of mitochondrial membrane potential, plasma membrane, and acrosome membrane parameters of frozen-thawed sperm in the Ocimum gratissimum essential oil extender were higher than those in the rest extenders and had a noticeable difference compared to the control group (P<0.05). In conclusion, Ocimum gratissimum essential oil is superior to vitamin E and green tea polyphenols in protecting canine sperm during the process of freezing and thawing.

Effect of rice bran oil supplementation on milk composition, milk-free fatty acids and metabolic health status in dairy cows during mid-stage lactation

Paramintra Vinitchaikul — 2024-05-20

The objective of this experiment was to evaluate the benefits of rice bran oil (RBO) supplementation in the dairy cow’s diet. Six crossbred Holstein-Friesian dairy cows were randomly assigned into a double 3 x 3 Latin square design. Three dietary treatments were applied as a basal diet (control), 2% and 4% RBO supplementation. The feeding trial was divided into three periods and each lasting four weeks. Feed samples were collected in each period. Milk composite samples were taken seven consecutive days during the fourth week. Free fatty acid milk samples were collected on the final day in each period. Blood samples for metabolic health and total antioxidant (TAS) status were collected at the end of third and fourth week in each period. The results revealed that supplementing with RBO had a significant (P<0.05) increased in milk protein and solid not fat. Moreover, there was a higher level (P<0.05) of oleic acid (C18:1-cis(n-9)) and may increase a proportion of linoleic acid (C18:2-cis(n-6)). Trend toward a decrease (P=0.10) in blood urea nitrogen (BUN) concentration was found. In addition, RBO supplementation was no significant (P>0.05) effect on metabolic profiles and TAS level. In summary, supplementation of RBO in dairy cow’s diet increased milk protein and solid not fat, while increase oleic acid (C18:1-cis(n-9)) level and might be a trend to decrease BUN levels. Supplemented with RBO up to 4% of dry matter intake have no negative effects on the metabolic health status of dairy cows. Although, RBO did not improve the antioxidant status.

Nutrient Intake, Nutrient Digestibility, Growth Performance, and Blood Parameters of Kacang Goats with GDF9 Genotype

Kustantinah — 2024-05-20

This study aims to determine the different growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9) genotypes in Kacang goats and their influence on the animals’ nutrient intake, digestibility, digestible nutrients, performance, and blood chemical composition. Twenty-five Kacang goats underwent PCR-RFLP using the MspI enzyme to determine their genotype. Genotyping results showed that 16 Kacang goats had the AA genotype, whereas 9 had the AC genotype. Following a completely randomized design in a 2 × 2 factorial pattern, the goats were divided into two diet groups (consisting of both genotypes): Diet 1 consisted of Elephant grass (Pennisetum purpureum) supplemented ad libitum and 400 g of concentrate, and Diet 2 was a total mixed ration. No significant interaction effect (P > 0.05) between diet and genotype on nutrient intake, digestible nutrients dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), crude protein (CP), nitrogen free extract (NFE), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and nitrogen of neutral detergent fiber (N-NDF), and nutrient digestibility (DM, OM, NFE, NDF, and N-NDF). However, a significant interaction effect between diet and genotype (P < 0.05) was observed for CP digestibility and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels. Diet 1 reduced OM consumption by 15.16%, NFE by 26.87%, and digestible NFE nutrients by 31.29% compared with Diet 2. The average daily gain and relative daily gain (%) were lower in Diet 1 compared to Diet 2. The goats with the AC genotype exhibited higher CP digestibility and had the lowest BUN levels compared with those with the AA genotype. This study concluded that providing high-quality feed to goats results in their good performance, and Kacang goats with the AC genotype demonstrates more optimal CP digestibility and performance compared with those with the AA genotype.

Influence of Deep Bedding and Fermented Feed Supplementation on the Behavioral Patterns, Adult Fly (Musca domestica) Density and Performance of Crossbred Pigs

Nuttawut Krutthai — 2024-06-05

This study determined the effects of deep bedding floor and fermented feed supplement on the behavioral pattern and adult fly (Musca domestica) density that would be affect to the performance of crossbred pigs. The performance data from 64 (Thai native x Meishan x Duroc) crossbreds were combined from two replicated studies. Pig behavior was continuously video recorded in a real-time mode on Day 1 (initial day), 2, 3, 7 and the end day of Month 1, 2, 3 and 4 for 32 pigs in one block. A 2 x 2 factorial arrangement in a completely randomized design was used with four replicates in one block. Factor A was a deep bedding floor (DB) or solid bedding of concrete floor (SB). Factor B was a feed type of concentrate feed supplemented with a fresh banana stem (BF+CON) or fermented banana stem (FF+CON). The results showed that effects of floor type and feed type on production performance were significant (P<0.05), with concrete floors showing better performance than deep bedding. The study found no significant impact of feed type on growth performance in pigs. Nevertheless, floor type and feed type interaction on production performance was significant for final weight, ADG, and FCR throughout the experiment (0–120 days). However, the behavior of pigs was influenced by floor type. DB pigs spent more time exploring the pen, but spent less time standing and walking than SB pigs. DB variations were found to be dispersed, with positive correlations between standing, nuzzling, walking, and feeding. Despite the possibility of flies being flown across the row, DB row pigs had significantly (P<0.05) fewer flies than SB row pigs. The heatmaps showed that the two groups have different behavioral dependency. The study concluded that the deep bedding floor type allowed for natural exploring behavior of the pigs and reduced the number of flies in the system. However, adverse effects were observed in performance, indicating the need for further study to improve the system.

Open-field and tonic immobility responses in broiler chickens administered lycopene

Tunde Ogundeji — 2024-06-14

The study aimed to evaluate behavioural responses in broiler chickens administered with lycopene and subjected to open field (OF) and tonic immobility (TI) tests. A total of 100 broiler chicks, divided into five groups of 20 chickens each, were used in experiments I and II. Experiment I had control A and lycopene groups, and Experiment II involved control B, habituation (HB), and habituation+lycopene (HB+Lyco) groups. The olive oil or mixed lycopene was administered by oral gavage once daily, commencing at 07:00 h (GMT+1), to each bird for 28 days for Experiment I and 21 days for Experiment II. In Experiment I, the OF test was conducted on days 14 and 28, while in Experiment II, 4-day habituation training was carried out in the HB and HB+Lyco groups from days 17 to 20, followed by the TI test in each of the three groups on day 21. The results of the OF test indicated a reduced (P ˂ 0.05) number of lines crossed, vocalisation, number of jumps, and defecation in the lycopene group compared to control A. An increased (P < 0.05) TI duration was recorded in control B compared to the HB group. Lycopene administration for 21 days increased (P < 0.05) the TI duration value in the HB+Lyco group compared to the HB group. In conclusion, lycopene administration increased fearfulness in broiler chickens, as evidenced by high fear responses during OF and TI tests. This may be due to the decreased ability to habituate to fear-eliciting stimuli in broiler chickens administered lycopene.

The antibiotic resistance of Vibrio parahaemolyticus originated from intensively farmed white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) in Ben Tre and Soc Trang provinces of the Mekong Delta, Vietnam

Quach Van Cao Thi — 2024-06-14

The antibiotic resistance of bacteria in aquaculture is a concern for many scientists around the world. Both aquatic animals and humans were able to infect Vibrio parahaemolyticus, leading to economic losses for the aquaculture sector worldwide. Therefore, the goal of this research is to evaluate the antibiotic resistance of V. parahaemolyticus, the causative agent of acute hepatopancreatic necrosis disease (AHPND), in white-leg shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) intensively farmed in Ben Tre and Soc Trang provinces of the Mekong Delta, Vietnam. The antibiotic susceptibility of 32 strains of V. parahaemolyticus to 12 antibiotics was determined by the disk diffusion method. The findings revealed that V. parahaemolyticus isolates are highly sensitive to flumequine (94%), florfenicol (88%), ceftazidime (82%), rifampicin (76%), ciprofloxacin (74%), tetracycline (74%), and doxycycline (68%). Meanwhile, these isolates are highly resistant to amoxicillin (88%), colistin (72%), and cephalexin (66%). In addition, most bacterial strains in the study showed multidrug resistance (resistant to at least 3 antibiotics), of which V. parahaemolyticus bacterial strains resistant to 3 antibiotics account for the highest percentage (34%), followed by 4 antibiotics (19%), resistance to 5 antibiotics accounted for 16%, and the lowest rate was resistance to 7 antibiotics (3%).

Antifungal activity of lactic acid bacteria from Pangasius catfish culture in the Mekong Delta, Vietnam

Quach Van Cao Thi — 2024-06-18

Fungi are one of the most common pathogens in aquaculture. The study was performed to isolate and select lactic acid bacteria (LAB) with antifungal activity. A total of 36 isolates of LAB were isolated from the intestines of Pangasianodon hypophthalmus, water and sludge, fermented vegetables, and “com me” in Vinh Long province of the Mekong Delta, Vietnam. The results revealed that the isolated LAB isolates were inhibitory against five species of fungi: Aspergillus sp., Fusarium sp., Achlya sp., Saprolegnia sp., and Mucor sp. In particular, isolate LN12 showed the highest activity against Aspergillus sp., Fusarium sp., Achlya sp., Saprolegnia sp., and Mucor sp. with inhibition diameters of 20 mm, 19.33 mm, 19.67 mm, 19.0 mm, and 20.33 mm, respectively. An investigation on the influence of culture conditions showed that all four bacterial isolates, LN5, LN12, LN23, and LN31, had the highest antifungal activity at a concentration of 10⁸ CFU/ml after incubation for 48-60 hours, incubation temperature of 30–35^oC, pH of 5.0–6.0 in the medium without the addition of NaCl. Four bacterial isolates, LN5, LN12, LN23, and LN31, were identified as Lactobacillus, and LN33 belonged to Pediococcus based on morphological and biochemical characteristics, and 16S-rRNA gene sequencing. The results show the potential application of LAB isolates in the prevention of fungal diseases in catfish.

The Use of Critically Important Antimicrobials for Human Use in Poultry Farming in Pakistan: A Cross-sectional Study Among Different Types of Farmers

Muhammad Rasheed — 2024-06-10

WHO's Global Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) and Pakistan's National Action Plan on AMR, aimed to phase out the Critically Important Antimicrobials (CIAs) in livestock farming. This cross-sectional study aimed to examine antimicrobial use (AMU) patterns among 386 poultry farms and investigate the association between farming types and AMU patterns in Punjab, Sindh, Balochistan, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Islamabad Capital Territory province in Pakistan. A questionnaire-based survey revealed that all participants were male, the majority belonged to the middle-income group (46.9%) and a significant proportion was university-educated (39.4%). Extensive use of the Highest Priority CIAs, including enrofloxacin (72.3%), colistin sulfate (61.9%), and tilmicosin (36.3%) was observed. High Priority CIAs, including amoxicillin, gentamycin, and neomycin, were used by 48.4%, 28.2%, and 36.3% of farms, respectively. A chi-square test showed a significant association between farming types and AMU patterns (p<0.05), except for aminoglycosides and doxycycline. Breeders showed the highest antimicrobial usage frequency, while backyard farmers tended to use them infrequently. Broiler and layer farmers occupied intermediary positions between these two extremes. Among various farming, broilers exhibited the highest prevalence of preventive AMU (47.8%). Breeders exhibited the lowest frequency of either combination therapy or whole flock treatment when few got sick at 22.2% and 44.4%, respectively. Our findings showed extensive CIA utilization in poultry farming. These findings could guide the phasing out process of HtP-CIAs in poultry, and potentially other food animals in Pakistan and policy making

Growth performance, carcass traits, and meat quality of Wagyu crossbred with Kamphaengsaen, Brahman, and Thai Holstein Friesian cattle

Prayad Thirawong — 2024-06-19

This study compared the growth performance, carcass characteristics, and meat quality of steers; Wagyu × Kamphaengsaen (WKPS), Wagyu × Brahman (WBR), and Wagyu × Thai Holstein Friesian (WTHF). Twenty-one crossbred Wagyu with a mean body weight of 395.10±43.89 kg were randomly assigned to three groups (n=7). All steers were fed the same diet from 19 months until slaughter age at 26 months. Growth performance indices were divided into two periods, at 19 – 22 and 23 – 26 months. The WTHF was found to have better body weight gain, average daily gain, and feed conversion ratio compared to WBR and WKPS (p<0.05). The longissimus dorsi muscle was used to compare the meat quality traits. Thai Holstein Friesian crossbred cattle were found to have higher growth performance (p<0.05) and carcass characteristics (p<0.05); WKPS had a higher meat color value for a*, while L* and b* meat color values were higher with the WBR group (p<0.05); and WTHF meat had higher fat composition and lower shear force (p<0.05). The results show that WTHF cattle had better growth performance and provided higher fat content for high meat quality attributes, WBR had higher meat color values, while the WTHF cattle provided better meat quality attributes among the group

Therapeutic role of Thymol, Propolis and Balanites aegyptiaca against experimental Toxocara vitulorum infection

Huda Mohammed Kuraa — 2024-06-24

Toxocara vitulorum (T. vitulorum) is a significant intestinal nematode that has led to a large global economic loss for farm animals. While there is a paucity of safe and effective anthelmintic drug development against it. Thus, this work aimed to estimate the antiparasitic effect of Thymol, Balanites aegyptiaca (B. aegyptiaca), and propolis as an alternative treatments against T. vitulorum larvae in vivo. To achieve this purpose, the embryonation of T. vitulorum eggs were done in vitro. Then, a total of thirty female wester rats were divided into six groups (5 each). Infected rats were orally inoculated by 2500 eggs containing third stage larvae. These groups were (control negative), (control positive), treated with (piperazine citrate 300 mg/kg), (thymol 40 mg/kg), (B. aegyptiaca 250 mg/kg), and (propolis 100 mg/kg). Parasitological and histopathological responses of all treated groups were evaluated at 7 and 14 days post infection (dpi). Microscopical examination of lung, liver (pepsin digested organs) and brain (squashed method) were used for counting of larvae. The numbers of larvae reduced at 14 dpi and accomplished the highest reduction in Thymol group (75%) followed by Propolis group (55.8%) and B. aegyptiaca group (53.8%) than in control positive group. Histopathological examination proved that thymol followed by propolis and B. aegyptiaca extracts were effective in improving the pathological changes and had a good effect on organ damage protection that was caused by T. vitulorum larvae. So, they can be used as an alternative, safe, and effective treatment of T. vitulorum infection.

Effects of galacto-oligosaccharides on growth performance and gut health in broiler chicken

Supawooth Faluan — 2024-06-25

This study investigated the effects of prebiotic galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS) derived from beta-galactosidase from Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus DSM 20081, on growth performance and gut health in broilers. A total of 100-day-old ROSS-308 male broilers were randomly allocated into two groups, five replications per group. The control group (CON) received only a basal diet, while the experimental group (GOS) received a basal diet supplemented with 1% functional GOS for the first three weeks, then a basal diet until week five. Body weight, feed intake, average daily gain, and feed conversion ratio were recorded. Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and blood malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in intestinal contents were analyzed on weeks 1, 2, 3, and 5. Internal organ weights and intestinal morphology were determined on weeks 3 and 5. The results showed no effect of the GOS on growth performance indicators. However, the GOS group revealed FCR improvement during weeks 4-5 (P <0.05). Higher total SCFAs levels in the duodenum and ileum of the GOS group were observed in week 1. Whereas only propionic acid in the cecum on week 2 and acetic acid and total SCFAs in the ileum on week 3 were higher in the GOS group than in the CON group (P <0.05). In the ileum, shorter crypt depth and higher villi height per crypt depth ratio were demonstrated in week 3 (P <0.05). The GOS group had lower liver and bursa weights than the CON group (P <0.05). Additionally, the GOS group had lower MDA levels than the CON group on weeks 1 and 3 (P <0.05). These findings suggest that GOS supplementation could promote gut health in broilers.

Effects of olive oil-treated diet and key lime juice-treated drinking water on intake and growth performance of quail

Mohammad Mijanur Rahman — 2024-06-19

The study aims to determine the efficacy of an olive oil-treated diet and key lime juice (KLJ)-treated drinking water on the intake and growth performance of quail. A total of 324 quails were divided into 6 groups: commercial feed (I) as a control group and formulated feed (II-VI) as a treatment group. Formulated feeds were prepared using olive oil, and drinking water was treated with KLJ at 0ml/kg+0ml/L (II), 1.5ml/kg+2.0ml/L (III), 3.0ml/kg+2.0ml/L (IV), 1.5ml/kg+4.0ml/L (V), and 3.0ml/kg+4.0ml/L (VI), respectively. Each group included 54 quails with 6 replicates of 9 birds each. The formulated feed contained lower crude protein (CP), ether extract (EE), crude ash (CA), and metabolizable energy (ME), but higher crude fiber (CF) than commercial feed. The treatment groups had no (P>0.05) effect on dry matter, organic matter, or CP intakes. However, there was a higher EE intake in the control group, while a higher CF intake was observed in the treatment group. The control group showed lower water intake than others. Groups IV and V showed higher weight gain than groups II, III, and VI, but no difference was observed in group I. Regarding feed conversion ratio (FCR), groups IV and V showed the lowest and similar values, while group II demonstrated the highest. Considering its positive effects on weight gain and FCR, it can be recommended to add olive oil to the diet and KLJ in water