Veterinary Medicine and Science最新文献

Listeria monocytogenes (LM) is a zoonotic pathogen that causes sporadic infectious listeriosis, which is a foodborne disease associated with consumption of contaminated food or feed. The internal organs of an African lion from a zoo in Shanghai were analysed to determine the cause of death. LM infection was suspected on the basis of the clinical symptoms and pathological changes and confirmed by polymerase chain reaction, whole genome sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. This is the first report of LM infection of an African lion in China.

The guinea fowl (Numida meleagris) holds significant agricultural importance in Ghana, particularly in the Northern, Upper East and Upper West Regions. Despite their economic and cultural significance, guinea fowls face a potential threat from avian influenza, a global concern for its adverse impact on poultry populations. This study assessed the seroprevalence of the virus in mature guinea fowls in the Upper East Region. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in three districts within the Upper East Region from April to June 2023. Blood samples were collected from 397 guinea fowls that are over 4 weeks old, and seroprevalence was determined using ID Screen Influenza A Antibody Competition Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The study analysed demographic factors such as sex, age and source of birds, employing statistical methods to establish associations. Among the sampled guinea fowls, 24.7% tested positive for avian influenza antibodies, whereas 75.3% were seronegative. Age did not show statistically significant associations with seroprevalence, but intriguing patterns were observed. Adult guinea fowls exhibited higher seroprevalence (23.7%) compared to growers (1.0%). The source of birds showed no significant association, but birds from slaughter points demonstrated higher seroprevalence (11.6%) compared to households (5.0%) and live bird markets (8.1%). In conclusion, the study underscores the importance of monitoring avian influenza in guinea fowls to implement effective control measures. The presence of antibodies suggests guinea fowls may contribute to virus transmission in the Upper East Region. The study recommends ongoing nationwide surveillance to assess the true prevalence of avian influenza in guinea fowls across Ghana.

Background: Ethiopia is one of the world's coffee producers, generating about 192,000 metric tonnes of coffee husks annually as by-products. The material can be used for ruminant diets to improve the nutrient utilisation of animals. However, coffee husk has toxic compounds, which can be minimised through different processing methods. Though the above techniques can minimise the toxicity level of coffee husk and increase the bioavailability of nutrients, there is scanty information on the comparative efficacy of these techniques, especially in ruminant nutrition.

Objective: The study was conducted to examine the effect of processed coffee husk on feed intake, nutrient digestibility, body weight changes and profitability of Bonga rams based on natural pasture hay.

Methods: In the experiment, 24 rams were used, and the rams were grouped into six blocks based on initial body weight (mean BW 21.5 ± 1.01 kg). The rams were quarantined for 21 days, and each ram was randomly assigned to one of the experimental feed treatments in a randomised complete block design (RCBD). The experimental treatment feeds include 400 g conventional concentrate mix (CM) containing Noug seed cake and wheat bran (T1); 200 g boiled coffee husk + 200 g CM (T2); 200 g roasted coffee husk + 200 g CM (T3) and 200 g raw coffee husk + 200 g CM (T4). The CM was made in the ratio of 1:1. The data collected from the 90-day experimental period were: dry matter and nutrient intakes, initial body weight, final body weight and body weight changes. After the growth experiment, a 7-day digestibility trial was followed by collecting faeces using a harness bag. The data were managed using Microsoft (MS) Excel 2010 and analysed using R software (v. 4.3.2). The chemical compositions of the CM had maximum crude protein (22%), followed by boiled coffee husk (14.74%), which was higher than natural pasture hay (6.91%) and raw coffee husk (12.4%).

Results: The total dry matter intake (p < 0.05), metabolisable energy, and total nutrient intakes of rams were significantly (p < 0.001) maximised when rams fed on boiled coffee husk (T2) than raw (T4) and roasted (T4) coffee husk, except for NDF and organic matter intakes. The apparent digestibility of nutrients and feed conversion efficiency were maximised for rams assigned to T2. There was maximum daily body weight gain (p < 0.001) when rams were supplemented with boiled coffee husk (T2). Also, body weight changes of rams were significantly (p < 0.001) higher for rams supplementation with boiled coffee husk.

Conclusion: Therefore, the boiled coffee husk as an alternative feed resource can be replaced by about half of the commercial CM without adverse effects of anti-nutritional factors and enhance the income of smallholder farmers in the coffee crop-livestock production system.

Purpose: The reproductive and production performance of dairy cows determines the profitability of a dairy farm.

Method: A questionnaire survey was used to assess reproductive performance and husbandry practices by using 100 randomly selected animal owners.

Result: Seventy-nine percent of animal owners involved were men, ages between 30 and 60. Their education was as follows: 26% were illiterate, 67% in primary school and 7% in secondary school. Ninety-five percent of them managed their animals extensively and used natural mating and breeding practices (75%). AFS in months were 46.83 ± 0.65 in Ada-Buke Warego, 46.00 ± 1.36 in Hagalo-Tulam, 47.08 ± 0.99 in Dicho Aba-Garmama and 47.29 ± 0.51 in Waligalte. AFC in months were 56.68 ± 0.97 in Ada-Buke Warego, 58.00 ± 1.36 in Hagalo-Tulam, 57.23 ± 1.41 in Dicho Aba-Garmama and 56.24 ± 1.13 in Waligalte. ANSPCs were 1.85 ± 0.08 in Ada-Buke Warego, 1.67 ± 0.14 in Hagalo-Tulam, 1.54 ± 0.14 in Dicho Aba-Garmama and 2.00 ± 0.10 in Waligalte. The mean length of CI in months was 30.88 ± 0.90 in Ada Buke Warego, 29.00 ± 1.68 in Hagalo-Tulam, 28.62 ± 1.62 in Dicho Aba-Garmama and 31.06 ± 1.04 in Waligalte. The average year of longevity was 9.22 ± 0.7 in Ada-Buke Warego, 9.08 ± 0.8 in Hagalo-Tulam, 9.31 ± 0.13 in Dicho Aba-Garmama and 9.21 ± 0.8 in Waligalte, but there is no significant association (p ≥ 0.05). AFC in months was 48.00 ± 0.00 in local and 37.20 ± 1.30 in crossbreeds. ANSPC was 1.92 ± 0.06 in locals and 1.10 ± 0.10 in hybrids. AFC for Horro and crossbred dairy cattle were 57.73 ± 0.59 and 48.00 ± 0.00 months, respectively. The mean length of CI was 30.53 ± 0.67 and 29.40 ± 1.99 months in natives and crossbreeds, respectively. The average year of longevity was 9.22 ± 0.05 and 9.10 ± 0.10 years for local and hybrids, respectively. ANSPC for natural mating and AI were 1.92 ± 0.05 and 1.10 ± 0.10, respectively, with significant association (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: The reproductive performance of dairy cows in the study area was low, which required the improvement of husbandry practices.

The human-animal relationship and its benefits have been a popular issue in recent decades. This study focuses on the dog as a paradigmatic example of this complex bond. The relationship between human and dog evolved over thousands of years through the domestication process. During this period, climatic, cultural, geographical and social changes have had a direct impact on this bond. Dogs have a remarkable capacity to play a variety of roles that mirror the evolution of human societies. Subsequently, questions arise regarding the important and symbolic roles that canines played in ancient cultures, religions and mythological traditions. Specifically, how have these roles changed through history? This research aimed to explore the socio-economic aspects of the human-dog relationship, spanning from ancient civilizations to modern societies. Through a systematic search methodology, this investigation seeks to provide insights into the dynamics of the complex human-dog relationship, including historical backgrounds, socio-cultural dynamics, economic implications and associated challenges. Additionally, the present study addresses the environmental concerns that emerge alongside rising stray dog populations. This research emphasizes the importance of strategies to balance the benefits of this coexistence that promote human and animal welfare.

Background: Understanding the nature of inflammatory responses in cats with bacterial and viral infections is essential for accurately managing the infection. This study aimed to investigate the diversities of inflammatory responses between bacterial and viral infections in cats to figure out their role in the pathophysiology of these infections.

Methods: Seventy-five owned cats were included in the study. The evaluations were performed based on three groups: healthy control, bacterial infection group (those with bronchopneumonia and gastrointestinal tract and urinary tract infections) and viral infection group (21 with feline coronavirus [FCoV], 3 with feline leukaemia virus [FeLV] and 1 with feline calicivirus), each containing 25 individuals. Total and differential leukocyte counts, C-reactive protein (CRP), transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) and interleukin-10 (IL-10) concentrations were assessed in the blood samples collected from sick and healthy animals.

Results: No statistically significant difference was noted in serum TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-10 concentrations of the infected cats (p = 0.996, p = 0.160 and p = 0.930, respectively). Serum TGF-β concentration in the viral infection group was reduced compared to the healthy control (p = 0.001). In contrast, WBC count and IL-6 and CRP concentrations were increased in the cats with bronchopneumonia, gastrointestinal tract infections and urinary tract infections compared to the healthy control and viral infection groups (p = 0.001, p = 0.001 and p = 0.001, respectively).

Conclusion: This study revealed significant differences between bacterial and viral infections regarding the fashion of inflammatory responses in cats, and the relevant data will undoubtedly contribute to the management and control of feline infectious diseases, rendering the development of novel therapeutic strategies.

Background: Morphometric traits discrepancies are associated with production, reproduction, adaptation and behaviours in horses. It also determines the design of harnessing implements, physical injury level and working performance of the native horses. Thus, the study was conducted to evaluate morphometric traits and body conformation indices of horse ecotypes reared across four districts of Bale Zone, Ethiopia.

Methods: Data of croup height, croup length, hip height, mid-back height, wither height, hip width, thoracic depth, chest width, body length, sternum height, thorax perimeter and cannon perimeter were measured in 500 horses (294 male and 206 female). Using those traits, 17 body conformation indices were calculated to define the horses for multi-faceted performances.

Results: The study revealed that croup height, hip height, wither height, hip width, croup length, body length, thorax perimeter and sternum height were significantly (p < 0.0001) different among the studied districts. The district effect was also significant at p < 0.05 for mid-back height, thoracic depth, chest width and cannon perimeter. The sexual dimorphism effect was statistically significant for all measured traits; however, females were inferior to males except for cannon perimeter. Body conformation indices of pelvic index, body index, transversal pelvic index and weight were highly significant (p < 0.0001) among the studied districts. The sex dimorphism effect was significant (p < 0.001) for dactyl-costal index, pelvic index, longitudinal pelvic index, transversal pelvic index, weight, tare index 1 (trot or gallop), tare index 2 (walk) and riding comfort degree, while non-significant (p > 0.05) for the remaining indices. The studied horses were classified as mediline, elipometric, light, small and suitable riding ecotypes with a medium-conforming body structure and good capacity for carrying loads on carts and backs for functional effectiveness. The correlations of body conformation indices ranged from very high to low, with positive and negative associations for functional capabilities.

Conclusion: Therefore, selection for improvement needs to rank morphometric traits and body conformation indices in correlation to developing racing and modern sport horses in the highlands of the Bale eco-regions. Further, molecular studies will be essential to determine whether the predominated phenotypic multiplicity is genetic or environmentally progressed.

Background: The translocation of gingival commensals resulting in measurable systemic inflammation has been described in humans and non-equine veterinary species with dental disorders, particularly periodontal disease. Routine odontoplasty does not result in increased serum amyloid A (SAA) concentration in horses, but a measurable increase in SAA concentration in horses undergoing dental extractions could suggest that local inflammation resulting from more severe dental disease has potential for wider, systemic consequences that warrants further study.

Objectives: To determine whether SAA increases in horses undergoing simple, oral extraction of non-fractured cheek teeth with and without periodontal disease.

Study design: Prospective cohort study.

Methods: SAA was measured using a stall-side test in horses undergoing simple oral extraction of cheek teeth with intact clinical crowns at baseline (T = 0), 24 h (T = 24) and 48 h (T = 48) post-extraction.

Results: Eight horses and 4 ponies aged between 4 and 23 years underwent cheek tooth extraction. A statistically significant difference in SAA concentration was noted between groups with and without periodontal disease at both 24 h (p = 0.004) and 48 h (p = 0.043). At 24 h, the median SAA concentration was 135 mg/L (range: 0-260 mg/L; IQR: 77.5-174 mg/L) in horses with periodontal disease and 27.5 mg/L (range: 0-47 mg/L; IQR: 4.8-43.5 mg/L) in horses without periodontal disease. At 48 h, median SAA concentration was 264 mg/L (range: 236-440 mg/L; IQR: 245.5-300.5 mg/L) in horses with periodontal disease and 0 mg/L (range = 0-41 mg/L; IQR: 0-21.8 mg/L) in horses without periodontal disease.

Main limitations: Small sample group. Horses undergoing extraction of fractured cheek teeth were not included.

Conclusions: Extraction of non-fractured cheek teeth does not result in a remarkable increase in SAA, except in horses with periodontal disease. These results suggest that periodontal disease in horses is associated with a local inflammatory response, which in turn drives the development of systemic inflammation, resulting in detectable increases in inflammatory markers when diseased periodontal tissues are disturbed.

Background: Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) is a widely recognized spice and medicinal plant that has gained significant attention for its potential health benefits. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the beneficial applications of turmeric in improving health and egg production in layers.

Objective: The objective of this review is to assess the current scientific literature on the effects of turmeric supplementation in layer diets and evaluate its impact on layer health and egg production.

Methods: A systematic search was conducted in Google Scholar database to identify relevant studies published in peer-reviewed journals. Studies investigating the effects of turmeric or its bioactive compound curcumin on layer health and egg production were included. Data on various parameters, including immune function, reproductive performance, egg quality and production parameters, were extracted and analysed.

Results: Turmeric contains a bioactive compound called curcumin, which possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and immunomodulatory effects. These properties have been extensively studied and have shown promising results in enhancing layer health and performance. Turmeric supplementation has been reported to improve the overall immune response in layers, reducing the incidence and severity of infectious diseases. It has also been shown to have positive effects on gut health by modulating the gut microbiota composition, improving nutrient absorption and reducing digestive disorders. Furthermore, studies have demonstrated that turmeric supplementation in layer diets can improve egg weight, shell quality, yolk colour and egg production rates. The mechanisms underlying these effects involve the antioxidant properties of turmeric, which protect the reproductive organs, enhance ovarian function and improve reproductive performance.

Conclusion: The findings underscore the potential of turmeric as a natural, cost-effective and sustainable intervention for improving layer well-being, egg quality and productivity. However, further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms of action, optimize dosage regimens and evaluate the long-term effects of turmeric supplementation in layer diets.