Clostridium toxins are widely used as medicinal agents. Many active metabolic enzymes, including sialidase (neuraminidase), hyaluronidase, and collagenase, contribute to the mechanism of action of these toxins. Sialidase from Clostridium perfringens recognizes and degrades sialic acid receptors in the host cell glycoprotein, glycolipid, and polysaccharide complexes. Sialic acid promotes the adhesion of various pathogens, including viruses, under pathological conditions. This study aimed to investigate the potential of C. perfringens sialidase protein to inhibit Newcastle disease virus (NDV) infection in ovo model. C. perfringens was characterized by molecular identification through polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and is cultured in a broth medium to produce sialidase. In addition, sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis analysis was conducted to characterize the sialidase protein. In contrast, enzymatic activity and protein concentration were carried out using a neuraminidase assay kit and Bradford to obtain suitable active substances. Furthermore, embryonated chicken egg models were used to observe the toxicity of several sialidase doses. Then, the hemagglutination (HA) titer was obtained, and absolute quantitative reverse transcription–PCR assay was performed to measure the viral replication inhibitory activity of sialidase against NDV. Each isolate had a specific sialidase gene and its product. The sialidase derived from C. perfringens could hydrolyze the sialic acid receptor Neu5Ac (2,6)-Gal higher than Neu5Ac (2,3)Gal in chicken erythrocytes, as observed by enzyme-linked lectin assay. A significant difference (p = 0.05) in the HA titer in the pre-challenge administration group at dosages of 375 mU, 187.5 mU, and 93.75 mU in the competitive inhibition experiment suggests that sialidase inhibits NDV reproduction. Quantification of infective viral copy confirmed the interference of viral replication in the pre-challenge administration group, with a significant difference (p = 0.05) at the treatment doses of 750 mU, 375 mU, and 46.87 mU. The potency of sialidase obtained from C. perfringens was shown in this study, given its ability to reduce the viral titer and copy number in allantoic fluids without adversely impacting the toxicity of the chicken embryo at different concentrations. Keywords: Clostridium perfringens, lectin, polysaccharide, sialidase, viral replication.

Livestock-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (LA-MRSA) was first discovered in horses in 1989. Since then, LA-MRSA has begun to be considered an important strain of pathogenic bacteria in horses, which can cause LA-MRSA infection and colonization in humans with public health impacts. The anterior nares are the primary site of LA-MRSA colonization in horses, although LA-MRSA colonization may also occur in the gastrointestinal tract in horses. LA-MRSA-infected horses typically exhibit clinical infection or may not exhibit clinical infection. There are two potential risks associated with LA-MRSA colonization in horses: The possibility of disease development in horses infected with LA-MRSA and the possibility of LA-MRSA transfer to humans and other horses. The diagnosis of LA-MRSA in horses can be made by conducting in vitro sensitivity testing for oxacillin and cefoxitin, and then followed by a molecular test using polymerase chain reaction. LA-MRSA transmission in animal hospitals and on farms is most likely due to contact with horses infected or colonized by LA-MRSA. The history of prior antibiotic administration, history of prior LA-MRSA colonization, and length of equine hospitalization were described as risk factors in cases of infection and colonization of LA-MRSA in horses. Nebulized antibiotics may be a viable alternative to use in horses, but nebulized antibiotics are only used in horses that are persistently colonized with LA-MRSA. Controlling the spread of LA-MRSA in horses can be done by regularly washing horses, eradicating vectors in horse stalls such as rats, and maintaining the cleanliness of the stable and animal hospital environment. Meanwhile, cleaning hands, using gloves, and donning protective clothes are ways that humans can prevent the transmission of LA-MRSA when handling horses. This review will explain the definition of LA-MRSA in general, LA-MRSA in horses, the epidemiology of LA-MRSA in horses, the diagnosis of LA-MRSA in horses, the transmission of LA-MRSA in horses, risk factors for spreading LA-MRSA in horses, public health impact, treatment of LA-MRSA infection in horses, and control of the spread of LA-MRSA in horses.

Lumpy skin disease (LSD) is a highly infectious endemic viral disease of cattle in Africa and the Middle East. The objectives of this study were to assess histopathological changes in cattle infected with LSD and measure serum malondialdehyde (MDA – oxidant) and total anti-oxidant capacity (TAC – anti-oxidant), trace elements (zinc, copper, and iron), cytokines (interleukin [IL]-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha [TNF-α]), haptoglobin (Hp), serum amyloid A (SAA), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), creatine phosphokinase (CPK), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and creatinine concentrations. Blood samples were collected from a total of sixty native and mixed breed cattle; (healthy; n = 25) and (LSD diseased; n = 35). Serum concentrations of MDA and TAC were measured by colorimetric methods. Serum IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α, Hp, and SAA concentrations were determined using human-specific enzyme-linked immunoassay kits. Serum MDA, cytokine (IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α), Hp, SAA, AST, ALT, CPK, BUN, and creatinine concentrations were significantly higher, while TAC, IL-10, zinc, copper, and iron concentrations were significantly lower in LSD compared to healthy cattle (p < 0.05). Cows and exotic mixed breed cattle were at higher risk of LSD oxidative stress than bulls and local breeds (p < 0.05). Age was not associated with the risk of LSD (p > 0.05). Histologically, there was extensive tissue necrosis, severe vasculitis, mononuclear cell infiltration, and intracytoplasmic inclusion bodies. LSD is associated with pro-oxidative and pro-inflammatory states from imbalances that favor pro-oxidant and pro-inflammatory factors in the detriment of anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory factors, leading to organ dysfunction and ultimately death. Oxidative stress is more frequent in cows and mixed breed cattle than in bulls and local breeds. Keywords: acute phase proteins, cytokines, lumpy skin disease, malondialdehyde, total anti-oxidant capacity.

Bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) is one of the most important viral pathogens causing high economic losses in cattle of all ages. Despite the active vaccination campaigns against BVDV, many outbreaks are still detected in various populations of cattle worldwide. Other species of animals such as dromedary camels, sheep, and goats may harbor BVDV infection and cause variable clinical syndromes. Thus, they may act as a source of infection to the cattle population around them. However, little is still known about the roles of these animals in the viral transmission and sustainability of BVDV in the environment. This study aimed to explore if the dromedary camels, sheep, and goats may seroconvert against BVDV and to study some associated risk factors for BVDV in these species of animals. We tested 1012 serum samples from dromedary camels, 84 from goats, and 21 from sheep for BVDV antibodies using commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits. Meanwhile, we selected 211 serum samples from dromedary camels to be tested for the BVDV antigen using the commercial ELISA kits. Our results show that 49/1117 serum samples were positive for the BVDV antibodies in dromedary camels (46/1012), goats (3/84), and none of the tested sheep samples were positive. However, none of the collected serum samples tested positive for the BVDV antigen. Seroconversion of some dromedary camels, sheep, and goats to the BVDV with no history of vaccination against BVDV strongly suggests the potential roles of these species of animals in the virus transmission cycle. The main limitations of the current study are (1) the lack of samples from other species of animals that lived close by these animals, particularly cattle. (2) lack of follow-up samples from the same animal over a long period. We believe the long-term longitudinal study of BVDV in various species of animals, particularly dromedary camels, goats, and sheep, is one of our future research directions. This will provide more information about the dynamics of BVDV antibodies in these species of animals. Keywords: antibody, antigen, bovine viral diarrhea virus, dromedary camel, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, goats, risk factors, serosurveillance, sheep.

Bovine respiratory disease (BRD) is the main cause of death in calves, and early BRD diagnosis saves lives. This study aimed to diagnose clinical and subclinical BRD in calves by assessing some biochemical alterations and ultrasonography (USG). Fifty-four Holstein dairy calves in Al-Sharqiyah Province, Egypt, were used in the study. They were divided into three groups. The first control group consisted of 10 clinically healthy calves. The second group consisted of 34 calves suffering from clinical lower respiratory tract disorders. The third group consisted of 10 subclinical BRD-affected calves. Ultrasonographic examinations of chest and thoracic ultrasound scoring were performed once per 2 weeks for each calf. Blood samples were collected for serum separation to measure albumin (ALB), total protein (TP), ALB, globulin, and haptoglobin (HP). The USG revealed small consolidation areas within an aerated lung lobe, a hypoechoic parenchyma of the entire distal lung lobe, and a hypoechoic-circumscribed structure surrounded by an echogenic wall appeared within the lung tissue in calves that suffered from lobular pneumonia, lobar pneumonia, and lung abscess, respectively. However, subclinical cases showed a small consolidation area in the cranial aspects of the right cranial lung lobe. The ultrasound lung score (ULS) was greater in clinical than in subclinical cases. The BRD-affected calves recorded significant increases in serum TP, globulin, and HP. Meanwhile, serum ALB decreased significantly. Thoracic ultrasound had a reliable tool in the BRD diagnosis, especially in the early prediction of subclinical cases in newborn calves. In addition, the ULS appeared to be a better classifier than the clinical respiratory score (CRS) for BRD diagnosis. On the other side, it was found that regression models were very useful in assessing the prediction of biochemical blood parameters based on the ULS and CRS in diseased cases. Keywords: bovine respiratory disease, calves, haptoglobin, thoracic ultrasound.

In tropical and subtropical countries, ixodid ticks are among livestock's most economically important ectoparasites. Although Nguni cattle from South Africa have adapted to harsh environments, it is unknown whether they will be resistant to ticks, and the diseases carried by ticks under various climatic conditions. Therefore, this study aimed to compare tick load and estimate the prevalence of different tick species among Nguni cattle under different environmental conditions. Tick counts were conducted monthly under natural challenges over 2 years on 586 Nguni cattle located at ARC-Roodeplaat and Loskop farms (warmer climate), Mukhuthali Nguni Community and the University of Fort Hare farms (cooler climate). The generalized linear model procedure of the Statistical Analysis System was used to analyze the data. It fitted the location (farm), sex, year, month or season, and animal age as covariates. The tick species (relative prevalence) observed were as follows: Amblyomma hebraeum (42%), Rhipicephalus evertsi (22%), Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) spp. (16%), Rhipicephalus appendiculatus (11%), Hyalomma marginatum (5%), and Rhipicephalus simus (4%). Tick infestation was significantly affected by location, season, year, month of the tick counting and age of the animal. Loskop farm had the highest tick count (μ = 30.69) and showed the largest variation in tick count. Compared to the other seasons, higher tick counts were seen during the hot-dry (September–November) and hot-wet (December–February) seasons. A. hebraeum was the dominant tick species across all four farms, followed by R. evertsi. The perianal region (under the tail head), the perineum and the belly body locations were the most preferred tick attachment sites. These results provide useful information for developing appropriate control strategies for ticks and tick-borne diseases in these provinces of South Africa. Further work must investigate the feasibility of genetic improvement for tick resistance. Keywords: Amblyomma hebraeum, Nguni cattle, South Africa, tick count, tick prevalences, warmer climate.

Camels have adaptive features to harsh climatic conditions, which make them a valued stable source of livelihood in arid lands. This study estimated the total bacterial and coliform counts (CCs), their associated factors in raw camel milk from the pastoral camel keepers, and the entire milk value chain in Isiolo County and Nairobi, Kenya. This study elucidates the bacterial load in camel milk and its potential risk. Moreover, this study provides recommendations on how to avert a human health hazard. This cross-sectional study targeted the camel pastoralists in Isiolo County, in the northern central part of Kenya. The study was conducted in July and August 2021. In addition, camel milk samples were collected along the value chain key points, including the producers, transporters, one bulker, and small traders in Isiolo town, and other retailers in Nairobi City. Eight camel herds were purposively selected and visited for a sample collection from pooled milking containers (10 mL each). In addition, milk was collected from pooled milk through the transporters, two milk bulkers, and several milk retailers in Isiolo town. Milk was further collected from retailers in Eastleigh town, Nairobi City. At each sampling point, 20 mL of milk sample was collected aseptically. The milk samples were assessed for total viable bacterial counts (TVBC) and CCs using the plate count and digital colony count, respectively. A total of 76 respondents were selected and 213 milk samples were collected in this study. The respondents included the 1 (1.3%) bulker, 32 (42.1%) producers, 26 (34.2%) traders, and 17 (22.4%) transporters. Most respondents were male (62%), with most being over 40 years old. Overall, the TVBC had a mean of 2436835 ± 9276636 and a median of 3600. Furthermore, the multivariable multilevel mixed-effects linear regression model indicated that gender and practice of smoking milk-handling containers were positively and negatively associated with high counts of the natural logarithm of total viable bacteria, respectively. Of the milk samples evaluated for the CC, 10.3% (22/213) had counts greater than or equal to (≥) 100,000, where some also indicated extreme outliers of about 9.3 million. This study reports a low proportion of camel milk samples with high total viable bacterial and CCs. The material of the milk container and level of education interactively affected the total viable bacteria. Keywords: camels, coliform counts, milk, pastoralists, total bacterial count.

Mosquito-borne viral infections are diseases that reduce human and animal health levels. Their transmission involves wildlife animals as reservoirs and amplifying hosts, including long-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis), and potentially transmits to humans and vice versa. This study aimed to determine the species diversity, richness, and biting activity of mosquitoes in a long-tailed macaque breeding area facility and discover the presence of Flavivirus and Alphavirus as the two main arboviruses reported to infect macaques. Human landing catch, light trap, and sweep net methods were used for mosquito collection around long-tailed macaques cages at parallel times for 12 h (18:00–06:00) for 12 nights. Mosquito species were identified to the species level based on the morphological identification key for Indonesian mosquitoes. Mosquito diversity was analyzed by several diversity indices. Mosquitoes caught using the human landing catch method were pooled based on mosquito species for viral ribonucleic acid extraction. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) detected the non-structural protein 5 of the Flavivirus region and the non-structural protein 4 of the Alphavirus region. This study used the man-hour density and man-biting rate formulas for mosquito density. Ten mosquito species were collected, namely, Aedes albopictus, Anopheles aconitus, Anopheles minimus, Anopheles vagus, Armigeres foliatus, Armigeres subalbatus, Culex gelidus, Culex hutchinsoni, Culex tritaeniorhynchus, and Culex quinquefasciatus. The number of mosquitoes caught using the light trap method had the highest abundance. In contrast, the number of mosquito species caught using the sweep net method had lower diversity than the other two methods. Seven mosquito species were obtained using the human landing catch method. The mosquito species with the highest density was Cx. quinquefasciatus within the observed densest period from 20:00 to 21:00. Negative results were obtained from RT-PCR testing on five species detected using universal Flavivirus and Alphavirus primers. The occurrence of mosquitoes in long-tailed macaque breeding facilities can be a source of transmission of zoonotic vector-borne diseases between animals and humans and vice versa. Keywords: arbovirus, diversity, ecology, health, primates.

Lactiplantibacillus plantarum is one of the lactic acid bacteria that is often used as probiotics. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum TSD10 as a probiotic on rumen fermentation and microbial population in Ongole breed cattle. This study adopted an experimental crossover design, using three-fistulated Ongole breed cattle. Treatments were as follows: T0, control without probiotic; T1, 10 mL probiotic/day; T2, 20 mL probiotic/day; and T3, 30 mL probiotic/day. The basal diet of the cattle comprised 70% concentrate: 30% elephant grass (Pennisetum purpureum). The concentration of probiotic used was 1.8 × 1010 colony-forming unit (CFU)/mL. We observed significantly lower acetate production compared with control (64.12%), the lowest values being in the T3 group (55.53%). Contrarily, propionate production significantly increased from 18.67% (control) to 23.32% (T2). All treatments yielded significantly lower acetate–propionate ratios than control (3.44), with the lowest ratio in the T3 group (2.41). The protozoal number decreased on probiotic supplementation, with the lowest population recorded in the T2 group (5.65 log cells/mL). The population of specific rumen bacteria was estimated using a quantitative polymerase chain reaction. We found that the population of L. plantarum, Ruminococcus flavefaciens, and Treponema bryantii, did not change significantly on probiotic supplementation, While that of Ruminococcus albus increased significantly from 9.88 log CFU/mL in controls to 12.62 log CFU/mL in the T2 group. This study showed that the optimum dosage of L. plantarum TSD10 as a probiotic was 20 mL/day. The effect of L. plantarum as a probiotic on feed degradation in rumen was not evaluated in this experiment. Therefore, the effect of L. plantarum as a probiotic on feed degradation should be performed in further studies. Keywords: Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, microbes, probiotic, rumen.

Vector-borne diseases (VBDs) constitute a global problem for humans and animals. Knowledge related to the spatial distribution of various species of vectors and their relationship with the environment where they develop is essential to understand the current risk of VBDs and for planning surveillance and control strategies in the face of future threats. This study aimed to identify models, variables, and factors that may influence the emergence and resurgence of VBDs and how these factors can affect spatial local and global distribution patterns. A systematic review was designed based on identification, screening, selection, and inclusion described in the research protocols according to the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses guide. A literature search was performed in PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus, and SciELO using the following search strategy: Article type: Original research, Language: English, Publishing period: 2010–2020, Search terms: Spatial analysis, spatial models, VBDs, climate, ecologic, life cycle, climate variability, vector-borne, vector, zoonoses, species distribution model, and niche model used in different combinations with "AND" and "OR." The complexity of the interactions between climate, biotic/abiotic variables, and non-climate factors vary considerably depending on the type of disease and the particular location. VBDs are among the most studied types of illnesses related to climate and environmental aspects due to their high disease burden, extended presence in tropical and subtropical areas, and high susceptibility to climate and environment variations. It is difficult to generalize our knowledge of VBDs from a geospatial point of view, mainly because every case is inherently independent in variable selection, geographic coverage, and temporal extension. It can be inferred from predictions that as global temperatures increase, so will the potential trend toward extreme events. Consequently, it will become a public health priority to determine the role of climate and environmental variations in the incidence of infectious diseases. Our analysis of the information, as conducted in this work, extends the review beyond individual cases to generate a series of relevant observations applicable to different models. Keywords: disease vectors, geographic information systems, medical, spatial analysis, topography.

Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) is a vector-borne virus that causes RVF in humans and ruminants. The clinical symptoms in humans and animals are non-specific and often misdiagnosed, but abortions in ruminants and high mortality in young animals are characteristic. Since the initial outbreak in the Rift Valley area in Kenya, the disease has spread to most African countries and the Middle East. The presence and epidemiological status of RVFV in humans and animals in Palestine are unknown. This study aimed to investigate the presence and risk factors for RVF seroprevalence in veterinarians, as occupational hazard professionals, and sheep, as highly susceptible animals, in Northern Palestine. A cross-sectional study was conducted. Data and blood samples of 280 Assaf sheep and 100 veterinarians in close occupational contact with sheep were collected between August and September 2020 using an indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. No evidence of RVF antibodies was found in any human or animal sample. Our results suggest that RVFV has not circulated in livestock in Northern Palestine, yet. Surveillance and response capabilities and cooperation with the nearby endemic regions are recommended. The distribution of competent vectors in Palestine, associated with global climate change and the role of wild animals, might be a possible route for RVF spreading to Palestine from neighboring countries. Keywords: Palestine, Rift Valley fever, seroprevalence, sheep, veterinarian.

Canine atopic dermatitis (CAD) is a hereditary susceptibility to the development of allergic symptoms in response to repeated exposure to generally innocuous substances known as "allergens." Allergens can be plants, animals, mold, mites, or milk. At present, serological enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA) kits are used for immunoglobulin E (IgE)-specific allergen detection due to their simplicity and accuracy. This study aimed to detect allergens in dogs with CAD and determine how they differ according to season, breed, age, and sex using a serological test in six provinces in South Korea for 12 months. This will allow practitioners to easily understand the risk factors related to CAD. In this study, IgE allergen-specific ELISA kits were used. The allergens were detected in serum samples collected from different regions considering season, sex, breed, and age. Allergens were divided into the following Ten categories: 1. Dairy, yeast, and egg, 2. grains, 3. vegetables, 4. meat, 5. seafood, 6. animals, 7. mold, 8. insects, 9. mites, and 10. trees. The percentage of allergens detected in males (54.8%) was higher than that of females (45.2%); 54.2% of allergens occurred in 3-year-old dogs or older. Moreover, regarding frequency, 65.6% of overall allergens occur during autumn; Chungcheongnam-do and Jeollabuk-do showed 20.7% and 20.9%, respectively. Additionally, among allergens categories, notable allergen occurrence was as follows: 38.3% corn; 28.7% potatoes; 22.7% duck; 24.4%,codfish; 31.2% animal wool; 95.6% Aspergillus fumigatus; 31.9% flea; 41.8% oak; and 25.0% sheep's sorrel grass. This study showcases the frequency of 60 allergens in six provinces detected in dogs with CAD; most likely from food or the environment using serological ELISA kits. Environmental sensitizer results can be considered for humans suffering from allergies to avoid a similar environment. A large-scale study can be performed to evaluate the allergens in the state. However, neither a skin test nor feed analysis was conducted, which is a limitation of this study. Keywords: canine atopic dermatitis, dairy, immunoglobulin E, mite, mold, serum test.

The Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin, Tursiops aduncus, and the pantropical spotted dolphin, Stenella attenuata, are protected marine mammals in Thailand; however, knowledge regarding the populations of both species in Thai seas is minimal. We aimed to reveal the genetic diversity and population structure of two species, T. aduncus, and S. attenuata, based on inter-simple sequence repeats (ISSRs). Samples of stranded T. aduncus (n = 30) and S. attenuata (n = 23) found along Thai Andaman Sea coasts from 1998 to 2018 were used in this study. A total of 17 and 16 ISSR primers that produced clear and polymorphic bands were selected for T. aduncus and S. attenuata, respectively. The highest percentages of polymorphic bands for T. aduncus and S. attenuata were 93.750% and 92.857%, respectively. Phylogenetic dendrograms indicated that the population of each species was clustered into three groups. This outcome was consistent with the genetic population structure, as both suggested three genetic clusters (ΔK = 3). Genetic diversity analysis revealed that the average Shannon's information index (I) was 1.926 ± 0.066 for T. aduncus and 1.714 ± 0.090 for S. attenuata, which indicate a high level of genetic variation. Further, low fixation index (F) values were observed for T. aduncus and S. attenuata at –0.231 ± 0.024 and –0.312 ± 0.042, respectively, suggesting that inbreeding is unlikely to have occurred for both species over the past decades. At least three genetic clusters of both species were found in the Thai Andaman Sea, and the diversity indices of each species indicated that these species are not at a critical level for extinction. However, monitoring their population status should be prioritized to observe any future changes in the level of diversity. Keywords: cetaceans, diversity, Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin, pantropical spotted dolphin, population structure.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic, painful, degenerative inflammatory disease of the synovial joints. Regular use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to decrease OA pain can have severe side effects, such as gastric irritation, ulcers, and heart problems. Natural products are extensively used to minimize OA-associated pain and inflammatory reactions. Lilium lancifolium is commonly used to alleviate several diseases through its anti-inflammatory effects. This study examined the impact of L. lancifolium extract on alleviating pain and inflammation associated with articular cartilage damage. Hydro-ethanol extracts of the L. lancifolium bulb were used. The experimental animals (adult beagle dogs) were divided into four groups: sham, which received neither treatment nor surgery; placebo, which received an empty gelatin capsule; glucosamine, which received glutamine (60 mg/kg); and L. lancifolium, which received an L. lancifolium extract-filled (60 mg/kg) gelatin capsule for 8 weeks. OA was induced by an expert orthopedic surgeon in 2-year-old dogs through resection of cranial cruciate ligament and lateral collateral ligament. Inflammatory cytokines, enzymes, lameness score, radiology, and histological changes were assessed. Our experiments showed that long-term oral therapy with L. lancifolium alleviated inflammation and increased histological damage. L. lancifolium treatment effectively reduced cytokines, such as interleukin-6, metalloproteinase-9, leukotriene-4, prostaglandin, and cyclo-oxygenase in dogs with OA, suggesting the potential to minimize inflammatory reactions in OA. L. lancifolium showed anti-inflammatory qualities in dogs with OA. This effect was comparable with that of glucosamine OA treatment. L. lancifolium supplementation represents a possible therapeutic and management option in this model of OA. Keywords: articular cartilage, inflammation, joint pain, Lilium lancifolium, MMP-9, osteoarthritis.

Raw milk can be a source of food-borne disease transmission and a medium for spreading antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli are bacteria that have the pathogenic ability to attack host cells and are capable of harboring antibiotic-resistant genes. This study estimated the prevalence and antibiotic resistance of S. aureus and E. coli isolated from raw milk in East Java, Indonesia. Two hundred and fifty raw milk samples were collected from five dairy farms in East Java. S. aureus and E. coli were isolated using their respective selective media, whereas antibiotic susceptibility testing was performed using the Kirby–Bauer disk diffusion method. The methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) was confirmed using the oxacillin resistance screen agar test, and extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing E. coli was determined using the double-disk synergy test. The presence of mecA and blaTEM genes were screened by the polymerase chain reaction method. Results indicated that the prevalence of S. aureus was 138 (55.2%) and that E. coli was 176 (70.4%). Of the 138 S. aureus isolated, 27 (19.6%) were MRSA, and among the 176 E. coli isolates identified, 3 (1.7%) were ESBL producers. The mecA gene was observed in 2 (7.4%) MRSA and all 3 (100%) ESBL-producing E. coli isolated harbored blaTEM genes. The presence of MRSA and ESBL-producing E. coli in raw milk is a serious public health threat, and public awareness should be raised about the dangers posed by these pathogenic organisms. Keywords: Escherichia coli, extended-spectrum beta-lactamase, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, public health, raw milk, Staphylococcus aureus.

Feline platynosomiasis, also known as lizard poisoning, is a feline hepatic disease caused by the parasitic trematode Platynosomum fastosum. Since this helminth resides in biliary ducts and gallbladder, the heavy infection can lead to failure of the hepatobiliary system and can be associated with cholangiocarcinoma. The primary diagnostic tool currently used is conventional fecal microscopy. However, low sensitivity of detection could occur in the case of light infection or biliary obstruction. This study aimed to determine the antibody-specific pattern of P. fastosum crude antigen and to identify immunoreactive proteins to develop the immunodiagnostic techniques. We investigated potential antigens specific to P. fastosum infection using western blotting. Forty-six samples of cat serum, including 16 P. fastosum-infected sera, eight healthy control sera, and 22 sera infected with other endoparasites were used. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of each band were calculated. Immunoreactive bands with high diagnostic values were further analyzed using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) to identify the protein components. Using immunoblotting, three proteins of 72 kDa, 53 kDa, and 13 kDa were found to be immunogenic. LC-MS/MS identified these proteins as a 70 kDa heat shock protein, a hypothetical protein (CRM22_002083) (adenosine triphosphate synthase subunit beta), and histone H2B, respectively. This study is the first to reveal three proteins that could be candidates for developing diagnostic tools for feline platynosomiasis. Keywords: candidate antigens, crude worm extracts, immunoblotting, liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry, Platynosomum fastosum.

Ciprofloxacin (CIP) is recommended for salmonellosis treatment as the drug of choice; however, overuse of this drug can cause drug resistance issues and failure to treat diseases. Phage therapy is an alternative approach for combatting CIP-resistant infection. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of CIP-resistant Salmonella isolated from the broiler production chain and evaluated the lytic ability of novel Salmonella phages isolated from water samples. Samples were obtained from the broiler production chain and used for Salmonella isolation. serovar and CIP resistance of each isolate were characterized through latex agglutination and agar disk diffusion test, respectively. Water samples from different sources were acquired for phage isolation. The lytic activity of novel-isolated phages was also examined. In this study, 51 Salmonella isolates were recovered from the broiler production chain (two commercial farms, one free-range farm, two slaughterhouses, and three stalls from the wet market). Kentucky was the major serovar characterized (16), followed by Typhimurium (9), Agona (5), Corvalis (5), Schwarzengrund (5), Singapore (3), Weltevreden (3), Mbandaka (2), Give (2), and Albany (1). The serovars that exhibited CIP resistance were 14/16 isolates of serovar Kentucky (87.5%) and one isolate of serovar Give (50%), whereas eight other serovars were susceptible to this drug. Overall, the prevalence of CIP-resistant Salmonella recovered from the sources included in this study was 29.4%. This study identified 11 Salmonella phages isolated from wastewater samples derived from broiler farms, wastewater treatment stations, and natural reservoirs. Our phages showed the total percentage of lysis ability ranging from 33.3% to 93.3% against CIP-resistant isolates. However, only one bacterial isolate, namely 210SL, recovered from the food contact surface of a wet market stall and was resistant to all phages. Diverse serovars of Salmonella were recovered in the broiler production chain in this study, while the isolates presenting CIP-resistant Salmonella were as high as 29.4%. Overall, Salmonella phages showed high lysis ability against these CIP-resistant Salmonella isolates, suggesting the potential application of phage-based treatments or biocontrol in the broiler production chain. Keywords: antibiotics, bacteriophage, fluoroquinolone, phage lysis, poultry.

The reproductive management of female dromedary camels involves traditional implications that are widespread among desert camel raisers. Several subfertility clinical manifestations impede pregnancy and elongate the interval between parturitions. Ubiquitin is a novel-specific protein, referred to recently as a biomarker for reproductive performance in male and female mammals. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the association between subfertility clinical status and the peripheral levels of ubiquitin versus follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), progesterone, and estradiol. According to the clinical diagnoses, 80 female dromedaries admitted to the university clinic were categorized into six female groups suffering from endometritis (EN, 28; 35%), inactive ovaries (IO, 18; 22.5%), ovarian hydrobursitis (BU, 19; 23.75%), vaginal adhesions (VA, 7; 8.75%), salpingitis (SA, 4; 5%), and cervicitis (CE, 4; 5%). In addition, five normal fertile non-pregnant females served as controls (CONs). All animals underwent ultrasonography and blood sampling for hormone and ubiquitin determinations. The results revealed a significant (p < 0.05) increase in ubiquitin in the CE (577.22 pg/mL) and VA (670.92 pg/mL) females. However, lower ubiquitin levels but still higher than the CON were noted in females with other symptoms (225.76, 425.79, 394.02, 414.96, and 393.92 pg/mL in the CON, BU, SA, IO, and EN, respectively). Concomitantly, the mean levels of FSH revealed a similar trend, showing higher (p < 0.05) levels in CE (2.79 mIU/mL) and VA (2.5 pg/mL) females. In contrast, no change was observed in FSH among other groups than CON (2.11, 2.17, 2.01, 2.24, and 2.13 mIU/mL in CON, BU, SA, IO, and EN, respectively). There was no difference in the progesterone levels among groups; however, estradiol- 17β levels significantly differed (p < 0.01), showing the highest level (629.15 pg/mL) in the SA group with no significant difference among other groups. Thus, ubiquitin could be used as a biomarker for genital tract inflammation in female camels raised in hot climates. Keywords: camel, estrogens, follicle-stimulating hormone, progesterone, subfertility, ubiquitin.

Some pathogens that cause infections in cattle are found in wild artiodactyls. Their prevalence, possible impact on the population of free-living animals, and the spread of infectious pathology in livestock have yet to be studied. We investigated the occurrence of bovine herpesviruses (BoHV-1, BoHV-4, and BoHV-6) among wild moose and roe deer in 8 areas of the Moscow region in the Russian Federation. One hundred and one tissue samples and nasal swabs of 24 moose and seven roe deer were studied using a real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for BoHV-1 DNA and conventional PCR for BoHV-4 and BoHV-6 DNA. A virus neutralization test (VNT) was used to detect antibodies to BoHV-1 in 19 serum samples. The final antibody titer was calculated with the Spearman-Kärber method. BoHV-4 and BoHV-6 DNA were not detected in all studied samples of 31 animals. BoHV-1 DNA was detected using a real-time PCR in nasal swabs from 2 adult roe deer. For BoHV-1, only 9/19 tested serum samples reacted positive in VNT with the titer range from 0.67 ± 0.19 to 3.75 ± 0.10 log2. Antibodies were detected in all age groups, more often in fawns under 1-year-old. The seropositivity of females was higher than in males. Wild ungulates can potentially represent a reservoir of new pathogenic livestock viruses. To study the prevalence and genetic diversity of wild ungulate herpesviruses, detailed molecular studies of the cervid herpesvirus 1, cervid herpesvirus 2, and elk herpesvirus 1 are necessary. Keywords: antibody, bovine herpesvirus-1, bovine herpesviruses, moose, polymerase chain reaction, roe deer.

The capa plant (Blumea balsamifera L.) has been widely used as a traditional herbal medicine in many parts of the world, including South Aceh, Indonesia. It is generally used for wound healing due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. However, it is only available as extract or oil, and no gel formulation exists so far. Thus, in this study, we formulated the extract into a pharmaceutical gel and investigated its effectiveness in healing incision wounds in white rats (Rattus norvegicus). We collected B. balsamifera leaf samples from Gunongpulo village, South Aceh, Indonesia. We then produced leaf extract through maceration and formulated the extract into a gel using Carbopol 940, methylparaben, triethanolamine, and propylene glycol. We applied the gel to incision wounds in white rats for 7 and 14 days. We then monitored wound healing based on wound length, histology of skin tissues, and levels of cytokine 2 (interleukin-2 [IL-2]). The gel formulation K3 (10% B. balsamifera leaf extract) was the most effective, followed by the gel formulations K2 (5% B. balsamifera leaf extract) and K4 (1% gentamicin ointment, positive control). K3 reduced wound length by 14 mm on day 7 and 29 mm on day 14. Histological analysis showed that fibroblast growth and angiogenesis were most significant in the K3-treated group, exceeding that of the positive control group. The K3-treated group also had the highest IL-2 levels, with an average of 107.7767 ng/L on day 7 and 119.1900 ng/L on day 14. The 10% B. balsamifera leaf gel effectively reduced wound length, increased fibroblast cell growth and angiogenesis, and IL-2 levels, accelerating wound healing. Keywords: fibroblast, interleukin 2, propylene glycol, wound healing.

One of the reasons for the decline in the number of wild species of artiodactyls is poaching and the illegal trading of animal products. Molecular genetic identification of animals from a biological sample effectively proves poaching cases and illegal trade of animal products. This study aimed to develop a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test that allows for species identification of artiodactyl animals that are most often subject to poaching. Genomic DNA was extracted from meat and blood samples of animals killed by poachers using commercial kits. Three pairs of primers were designed and used to amplify the cytochrome b gene fragment of Roe deer, Saiga antelope, and Siberian stag. The proposed protocol allows amplification of specific PCR products of 542 bp with Roe deer DNA, 587 bp with Saiga DNA, and 525 bp with Siberian stag DNA. Specificity analysis showed no cross activity with DNA from other animal species. The detection limit of PCR ranged from 15.6 pg to 1.9 pg of DNA in 25 μL of the reaction mixture. Sequencing the amplified products and subsequent comparison with the corresponding reference sequence showed a similarity ranging from 99.99% to 100%. The PCR based on the developed primers demonstrated high sensitivity and specificity when using DNA from homogeneous and heterogeneous animals. Keywords: Argali, cytochrome b, identification, Roe deer, Saiga, Siberian stag.

Electrocardiography (ECG) is an adjunct for cardiac enlargement diagnosis. However, its efficacy in assessing left cardiac remodeling (left atrial and left ventricular enlargement) in dogs with myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the association between ECG parameters and left cardiac remodeling and to investigate whether the rate of change in ECG waveforms in the same individual reflected left cardiac remodeling in dogs with MMVD. This retrospective study included 20 healthy dogs and 140 dogs with MMVD. Data on clinical variables were obtained through physical examination, thoracic radiography, and echocardiography. The ECG parameters were the P-wave duration, PR interval, QRS complex duration, P-wave amplitude, R-wave amplitude, and mean electrical axis. Dogs with examination data that could be obtained multiple times during the study period were classified into the non-progressive and progressive groups. Only the P-wave and QRS complex durations were selected as significant variables associated with imaging test parameters (p < 0.05); they had a relatively higher discriminatory ability for the left cardiac remodeling than other ECG parameters. The rates of change in the PR interval and R-wave amplitude were significantly higher in the progressive group than in the non-progressive group. In dogs with MMVD, the P-wave and QRS complex durations were significantly correlated with the left cardiac remodeling indicators. Furthermore, an increased rate of change in the PR interval and R-wave amplitude in the same individual may indicate left cardiac remodeling. Keywords: left atrial enlargement, left ventricular enlargement, PR interval, rate of change, R-wave amplitude.

In Indonesia, Madura cattle are native breeds that are expected to contribute to the improvement of regional meat self-sufficiency. Eimeria spp. are protozoans that are commonly found in ruminants. This study aimed to identify the occurrence and diversity of Eimeria spp. in Madura cattle. In this study, fresh fecal samples were collected from 100 cattle in Kamal Subdistrict, Bangkalan District, Madura Island, Indonesia. Morphological detection was performed using a light microscope, and molecular identification was performed using a polymerase chain reaction. DNA amplification was conducted using various species-specific primers for Eimeria bovis, Eimeria zuernii, Eimeria auburnensis, Eimeria alabamensis, Eimeria ellipsoidalis, and Eimeria cylindrica. The results obtained 21% (21/100) of Eimeria spp. based on morphological detection. A total of 15 positive samples with 500–25,000/mL oocysts were selected for DNA extraction and amplification, resulting in 12 positive samples. Four Eimeria spp. were obtained based on molecular identification: E. bovis, E. zuernii, E. auburnensis, and E. cylindrica. Four species of Eimeria namely E. bovis, E. zuernii, E. auburnensis, and E. cylindrica were identified from fecal sample of Madura cattle using PCR method in this study. Further comprehensive studies are required to investigate the pathogenicity of Eimeria spp. in Madura cattle. Therefore, improved and integrated management practices should be strengthened by local governments to prevent pathogenic diseases and increase national livestock productivity in Indonesia. Keywords: biodiversity, Eimeria species, infectious disease, Madura cattle, Madura Island.

Female tabanids play a key role in disease transmission as mechanical vectors for various hemopathogens, but only a limited number of studies have been conducted on them. This study aimed to investigate the occurrence of hemopathogens in tabanid flies compared to those found in nearby cattle hosts. Tabanids were collected using a Nzi trap for three consecutive days per month during the dry season (February–May 2021). Furthermore, blood samples were collected from 20 beef cattle (Bos taurus) raised in the same area where the flies were captured. Conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to detect hemopathogenic DNA in flies and beef cattle. In total, 279 female tabanids belonging to five species were collected: Tabanus megalops, Tabanus rubidus, Tabanus mesogaeus, Chrysops dispar, and Chrysops fuscomarginalis. Notably, T. megalops was the most abundant species, accounting for 89.2% of the flies collected (n = 249). PCR technique revealed that 76.6% of T. megalops carried at least one pathogen (Anaplasma, Ehrlichia, Babesia, or Theileria). In addition, all beef cattle had multiple hemopathogenic infections (Anaplasma marginale, Ehrlichia spp., Babesia bigemina, Babesia bovis, and Theileria spp.). Although T. megalops could carry many hemopathogens, it might not be an important vector due to the limited number of flies and parasitic load. Furthermore, T. megalops could be utilized to monitor the presence of hemopathogens in the study area, but not the disease occurrence in the individual host species. Knowing the presence of hemopathogens in flies could help manage the disease in this area. Keywords: cattle, hemopathogen, tabanids, Thailand, vector.

Acute viral gastroenteritis is one of the main causes of hospitalization in dogs during the 1st year of life. This retrospective study aimed to describe a pediatric canine population presumptively diagnosed with acute viral gastroenteritis and to identify potential prognostic factors that influence hospitalization time (HT) and mortality. Canine patients up to 12 months of age diagnosed with presumptive acute viral gastroenteritis were searched retrospectively from two veterinary hospitals during a 5-year period (2015–2020). Information regarding patient signalment, prophylactic care, clinical signs, blood test results, presence of systemic inflammatory response syndrome, and additional treatments were recorded to analyze their association with HT and mortality. Only dogs with a complete medical record until death or discharge were included in the study. Ninety-four dogs were identified: 76 dogs (80.9%) survived with a median HT of 5 days (range: 2–16 days) and 18 dogs (19.1%) died with a median HT of 3½ days (range: 1–8 days) after admission. The presence of fever and fresh frozen plasma (FFP) administration was significantly associated with a lower survival rate (p = 0.021 and p = 0.037) in the multivariate analysis. Among survivors, incomplete primo-vaccination, the presence of hematochezia, and FFP administration were considered independent predictors of time to clinical recovery (p = 0.026, p = 0.047, and p = 0.026, respectively), being associated with higher HT. The presence of fever and FFP administration was significantly associated with a lower survival rate. An inadequate primo-vaccination status prior to admission, hematochezia, and FFP administration was associated with longer HT in surviving patients. Further studies are needed to confirm the present results. Keywords: acute viral gastroenteritis, dog, infectious gastroenteritis, plasma administration, prognosis.

Brucellosis is an infectious disease in humans and livestock. The disease is endemic in many regions of Iran, for example, Hamedan Province. Knowledge of infection rate and associated risk factors is essential to control and prevent the disease. The study aimed to estimate the prevalence of brucellosis and associated risk factors in cattle, sheep, and goats in Famenin, Hamedan Province, West of Iran. Blood samples of 1758 animals (1470 sheep, 190 goats, and 98 cattle) were obtained in different rural regions of Famenin. The samples were evaluated to detect of Brucella-antibodies using rose Bengal plate test (RBPT), Wright standard tube agglutination test (SAT), and 2-Mercapto-Ethanol (2-ME) techniques. The risk factors associated with brucellosis such as age, gender, history of vaccination against brucellosis, and abortion history in animals were evaluated. In the sampling process, the critical gaps related to the distribution of brucellosis in the herds and regions are identified for designing the strategies to prevent and control the disease. About 6.88% and 89.31% of animals had a history of abortion and vaccination against brucellosis, respectively. Most of the animals were female (92.49%) and in the range of 2–3 age old (39.8%). The antibodies to the Brucella-infection in animals were 2.73% with RBPT and 1.30% with SAT and 2-ME. The prevalence of brucellosis was detected 1.3% among individual animals and 11% among herds. This rate was 1.43% for sheep and 1.05% for goats, with no significant statistical difference. No seropositive case was detected in cattle samples using RBPT, STAT, and 2-ME. The highest rate of brucellosis (6.25%) was detected in Emamzadeh-Pirnahan region (22.2% goats and 5.6% sheep). In sheep, most cases of the disease were in 3–4 age-old group (1.92%), animals without a history of abortion (1.58%), and without a history of vaccination against brucellosis (2.80%). Furthermore, 5.94% of males and 1.11% of females were detected positive for brucellosis (p < 0.001). The chance of brucellosis in rams was 5.6 folds higher than in others (odds ratio = 5.64). Brucellosis in goats was detected 2.94% and 1.89% in the age groups <1 and 2–3 year-old. Furthermore, 1.22% of females and 1.34% of animals without a history of abortion were positive. Brucellosis was found in 0.61% of vaccinated and 3.85% of non-vaccinated goats. Except for gender in sheep, no significant statistical correlation (p > 0.05) was observed between prevalence of brucellosis and risk factors. In farmers, low level of information about the transmission and also control and preventive methods of the disease was dominant. Consumption of traditional and unpasteurized dairy products is also very common in the studied regions. This is a comprehensive evaluation of animal brucellosis parallel to humans' cohort study in the Famenin region for the first time. Although the rate of brucellosis in animals is low in the region, explaining the risk factors to farmers, mass vaccination, regular screening of animals, and culling the positive animals are very important for controlling and reducing the disease in the region. Keywords: animal, brucellosis, endemic, prevention, risk factors.