Objective:To characterize obese or overweight dogs that visited private Japanese veterinary clinics located in humid subtropical climate zones.Methods:Dogs were categorized into four body condition score groups and fi...Objective:To characterize obese or overweight dogs that visited private Japanese veterinary clinics located in humid subtropical climate zones.Methods:Dogs were categorized into four body condition score groups and five body size groups based on their breed.Multilevel logistic regression models were applied to the data.A Chi-squared test was used to examine whether the percentage of obese or overweight dogs differed between breeds.Results:There were 15.1% obese dogs and 39.8% overweight dogs.Obese dogs were characterized by increased age and female sex,whereas overweight dogs were characterized by increased age and neuter status(P < 0.05).Peak probabilities of dogs being either obese or overweight were between 7 and 9 years of age,with the probabilities then declining as the dogs got older.For example,in toy sized dogs,the probability of dogs being overweight increased from 33.4% to a peak of 55.1% as dog age rose from 1 to 8years old.Also,in medium,small and toy sized dogs,neutered dogs were more likely to be overweight than intact dogs,whereas neutered small sized dogs were more likely to be obese than intact small sized dogs(P < 0.05).Additionally,the percentages of obese or overweight dogs differed between the 10 selected breeds with the highest percentage of obese or overweight dogs.Conclusions:By taking age,body size,sex and neuter status into account,veterinarians can advise owners about maintaining their dogs in ideal body condition.展开更多
Laboratories play significant roles in all the critical processes of detecting rapid infectious disease outbreaks,risk assessments,early warnings,early responses and notifications,and monitoring and surveillance[1,2]....Laboratories play significant roles in all the critical processes of detecting rapid infectious disease outbreaks,risk assessments,early warnings,early responses and notifications,and monitoring and surveillance[1,2].Veterinary Laboratories(VLs)that rapidly identify,respond to and control rapidly spreading and emerging(or re-emerging)infectious and zoonotic diseases is critical to:(1)the financial performance of animal agriculture and international trade;(2)livelihoods of animal related industries;and(3)nutritional status,food security,and the socio-economic well-being of a country[3].展开更多
The management systems currently used in the Italian healthcare sector provide fragmented and incomplete information on this system and are generally unlikely to give accurate information on the performances of the he...The management systems currently used in the Italian healthcare sector provide fragmented and incomplete information on this system and are generally unlikely to give accurate information on the performances of the healthcare processes. The present paper introduces a combined discrete event simulation (DES)/business process management (BPM) approach as innovative means to study the workflow of the activities within the Department of Laboratory Medicine of the “San Paolo” Hospital in Naples (Italy). After a first “As-Is” analysis to identify the current workflows of the system and to gather information regarding its behaviour, a following DES-based “What-If” analysis is implemented to figure out alternative work hypotheses in order to highlight possible modifications to the system’s response under varying operating conditions and improve its overall performances. The structure of the simulation program is explained and the results of the scenario analysis are discussed. The paper starts with a brief exploration of the use of DES in healthcare and ends with general observations on the subject.展开更多
The study was designed to evaluate the level of knowledge of Nigerian Veterinary Laboratory Staff on the nature of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) disease using structured questionnaires. The study comprised ...The study was designed to evaluate the level of knowledge of Nigerian Veterinary Laboratory Staff on the nature of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) disease using structured questionnaires. The study comprised the Staff of National Veterinary Research Institute (NVRI) and five reference Veterinary Teaching Hospitals (VTH) designated for HPAI diagnosis. A total of 69 questionnaires were distributed to the laboratory staff. Questions on the general nature of the disease such as the cause, signs, mode of transmission, methods of identification, lesions, control and prevention, etc. were asked. The results showed that 77.38% of the staff answered all the questions correctly indicating their considerable knowledge of the HPAI disease. Considerable percentage of the staff listed correctly the equipment used for serology (36.23%) and RT-PCR (31.88%). Interestingly only 13.04% of the staff listed correctly the equipment used in rapid tests despite the fact that they are simpler and recommended for all P2 laboratories. In conclusion, the veterinary laboratory staff assessed demonstrated a significant level of knowledge on HPAI diagnosis;however, most of their laboratories lack the structure, organization, funds and basic facilities required for effective HPAI diagnosis.展开更多
Misuse, overuse, and missed prescription of antimicrobials are the driving factors to antimicrobial resistance (AMR) leading to a globally increasing public health concern. This study was conducted to assess the curre...Misuse, overuse, and missed prescription of antimicrobials are the driving factors to antimicrobial resistance (AMR) leading to a globally increasing public health concern. This study was conducted to assess the current knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of village animal health workers (VAHWs) and veterinary drug retailers (VDRs) on antimicrobial use (AMU) and antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The sample size was calculated following [1]. KAP data were scored and categorized following Bloom’s cut-off score. A total of 108 study populations (66 VAHWs and 42 VDRs) were purposively surveyed using a validated KAP questionnaire in 5 provinces across Cambodia. This study found that VAHWs and VDRs have moderate levels of knowledge (61% to 65%) and good attitudes towards AMU (83% to 84%) but employed moderate practices (59% to 74%) on AMU. VAHWs had moderate (66%);while DVRs had poor knowledge (58%) on AMR. Thus, regular awareness education specifically on proper use, prudent use, and stewardships on AMU and AMR in the form of refresher training or awareness events must be provided to VAHWs and VDRs to avoid inappropriate use of antimicrobials and spreading the AMR knowledge across Cambodia.展开更多
Albendazole is a benzimidazole derivative with broad spectrum of activity against nematodes and cestodes infections in animals. Bulk of the needed drugs in West African sub-region is imported and adulteration in drug ...Albendazole is a benzimidazole derivative with broad spectrum of activity against nematodes and cestodes infections in animals. Bulk of the needed drugs in West African sub-region is imported and adulteration in drug trade is common. This study was aimed at examining the quality of nine brands of veterinary albendazole boluses commonly used in Nigeria. Bolus weight uniformity, assay, hardness, friability, disintegration time, and dissolution profiles of the brands （250 mg/bolus） were tested according to the official specifications. All the brands tested failed bolus weight uniformity test except brands C and H. The percent albendazole in brands A, B, C and F were within official specification whereas D, E, G, H and I failed. None of the brands passed hardness test. All the products passed friability test except brand E. All the test brands disintegrated within the specified time except B and H. Only brands B, C, E and I passed the dissolution test. Consequently, only brands B and C could be interchanged with the reference. There is need for routine quality control and post market surveillance of veterinary drugs in Nigeria.展开更多
Background Post-weaning diarrhea(PWD)in piglets,often caused by F4^(+)enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli(ETEC),poses significant challenges in pig production.Traditional solutions like antibiotics and zinc oxide face in...Background Post-weaning diarrhea(PWD)in piglets,often caused by F4^(+)enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli(ETEC),poses significant challenges in pig production.Traditional solutions like antibiotics and zinc oxide face increasing restrictions due to growing concerns over antibiotic resistance and environmental sustainability.This study investigates the application of bivalent heavy chain variable domain(V_(H)H)constructs(BL1.2 and BL2.2)targeting ETEC virulence factors,administered in feed to mitigate ETEC-induced PWD in weaned piglets.Results The supplementation of BL1.2 and BL2.2 in both mash and pelleted feed significantly reduced the diarrhea incidence and fecal shedding of F4^(+)ETEC in challenged piglets.Pelleted feed containing V_(H)H constructs helped to preserve gut barrier integrity by maintaining levels of the tight junction protein occludin in the small intestine.Additionally,the constructs maintained blood granulocyte counts at a similar level to the non-challenged control group,including neutrophils,and ameliorated the acute phase protein response after challenge.Notably,even at low feed intake immediately after weaning,V_(H)H constructs helped maintain piglet health by mitigating ETEC-induced inflammation and the resulting diarrhea.Conclusions Our findings demonstrated that using V_(H)H constructs as feed additives could serve as an effective strategy to help manage ETEC-associated PWD,by reducing F4^(+)ETEC gut colonization and supporting gut barrier function of weaned piglets.The high stability of these V_(H)H constructs supports their incorporation into industrial feed manufacturing processes,offering a more sustainable preventive strategy compared to traditional antimicrobial interventions,which could contribute to sustainable farming practices.展开更多
Tracheal collapse(TC),defined by excessive tracheal collapsibility,often results in severe respiratory distress in small-breed dogs.Surgical intervention,including the placement of extraluminal stents,has been employe...Tracheal collapse(TC),defined by excessive tracheal collapsibility,often results in severe respiratory distress in small-breed dogs.Surgical intervention,including the placement of extraluminal stents,has been employed as a treatment option.Owing to the anatomical and physiological similarities between rabbit and canine tracheas,a rabbit model was utilized to develop a novel extraluminal silicone tracheal stent and evaluate its feasibility in treating tracheomalacia.The stent was surgically implanted in eight New Zealand White rabbits after the induction of tracheomalacia.Postoperative evaluations,including clinical assessment,radiography,computed tomography(CT),and histological analysis,were performed at 1,2,and 6 months post-implantation.All rabbits in the stent group survived without exhibiting signs of respiratory distress,whereas all rabbits in the tracheomalacia group experienced respiratory distress,with one succumbing to respiratory failure.Radiographic and CT evaluations confirmed that the stent effectively maintained airway patency,with tracheal measurements not significantly different from the preoperative values,indicating successful restora-tion of tracheal diameter.Histological analysis demonstrated minimal inflammatory response,the absence of fibrosis,and preserved structural integrity of the tracheal cartilage.Therefore,the novel extraluminal silicone tracheal stent provides effective airway support while minimizing adverse tissue reactions.Further studies,including the use of this stent in a canine TC model and assessment of its long-term outcomes,are warranted to explore its potential clinical applications in veterinary medicine.展开更多
Background:Although many sugars are known antibacterial in higher concentrations(>50%W/V)and a few at low concentrations too(≤1 mg/mL),most of the studies are limited to only a few reference isolates,therefore no ...Background:Although many sugars are known antibacterial in higher concentrations(>50%W/V)and a few at low concentrations too(≤1 mg/mL),most of the studies are limited to only a few reference isolates,therefore no concrete conclusion can be drawn.Methods:This study evaluated the antimicrobial potential of 19 sugars against 8000 isolates of bacteria belonging to 46 genera and also against 30 reference strains of microbes of 14 different species.To determine susceptibility to sugars,a sugar-disc(1 mg)diffusion assay was performed on Mueller Hinton agar using the same method used for antimicrobial susceptibility of microbial strains.Results:In the study,of 3,336 isolates of Gram-positive bacteria 147(4.35%)were susceptible to one or more sugars but only 16(0.37%)of the 4644 isolates of Gram-negative bacteria were susceptible to one or other sugar.Gram-positive bacteria were significantly more often susceptible to one or more sugars than isolates of Gram-negative bacteria(OR 13.33,CI99,6.74–26.37).A total of 163 test-isolates(2.04%)but none of the reference strains were sugar susceptible.Most of the isolates susceptible to sugars(135 of 2,295)were members of the Bacillaceae(36/679)and Micrococcaceae(99/1,616)family.However,out of 5,705 isolates belonging to other bacterial families,only 28 isolates(0.49%)were susceptible to one or more sugars.The most effective to least effective sugars as antibacterial were mannose,inositol,mannitol,sucrose,raffinose,ribose,xylose,trehalose,dulcitol,maltose,lactose,inulin,salicin,melibiose,sorbitol,adonitol,arabinose,glucose,and esculin,inhibiting 69,58,23,14,11,10,10,7,7,7,6,6,5,5,5,5,2,1,and 1 of the test-isolates,respectively.Conclusion:The results are still intriguing in determining the utility of sugar susceptibility of different bacteria and are still beyond making any conclusion for their therapeutic utility.However,the study can be concluded that Gram-positive bacteria are generally more susceptible to lower concentrations of different sugars than Gram-negative bacteria,and various sugars have variable selectivity in their antibacterial effect on multiple types of bacteria.展开更多
Background Adipose tissue plays a central role in regulating whole-body metabolic health,facilitated by the variety of cell types and their wide-ranging functions.In addition,depot-specific differences in adipose tiss...Background Adipose tissue plays a central role in regulating whole-body metabolic health,facilitated by the variety of cell types and their wide-ranging functions.In addition,depot-specific differences in adipose tissue have been shown to play important roles in different disease states including obesity,diabetes,and metabolic dysfunction in human and animal models.For early postpartum dairy cattle,metabolic dysfunction,triggered by a negative energy balance,is often manifested as subclinical ketosis(SCK).However,the role that subcutaneous(SAT)and visceral(VAT)adipose tissue depots,and their diverse cellular compositions,play in the response to subclinical ketosis conditions is unclear.Results Flank SAT and omental VAT were collected via laparotomy from five non-ketotic(NK;BHB≤0.8 mmol/L)and five subclinical ketosis(SCK;1.4 mmol/L<BHB≤2.6 mmol/L)multiparous cows during early lactation.Following collection,nuclei were isolated from the tissue and subjected to single-nuclei RNA sequencing in order to investigate the transcriptional cellular heterogeneity.Distinct clusters of adipocytes(AD),adipose stem/progenitor cells(ASPC),immune cells(IMC),endothelial cells(EC),and pericyte/smooth muscle cells(PE/SMC)were identified in both adipose depots,with a greater abundance of ASPC in SAT compared to VAT.In addition,we identified a VAT-specific AD subtype characterized by higher expression of progenitor-like marker genes.While the abundance of none of the identified cell subtypes were different between SCK and NK,underlying transcriptional changes provided insight into potential effects of SCK.In general,SCK was associated with pro-lipogenic,anti-inflammatory,and pro-angiogenic transcriptional changes,possibly indicating a greater capacity for homeostatic responsiveness in SAT under conditions of enhanced negative energy balance.In contrast,SCK appeared to promote transcriptional changes indicative of impaired adipogenesis,impaired angiogenesis,and increased inflammation in VAT.Conclusions Uniquely,our study presents novel insight into the cellular heterogeneity of adipose tissue in dairy cattle with subclinical ketosis.Furthering our understanding of the role of adipose tissue in response to this form of metabolic challenge has the potential to enhance efforts aimed at limiting the incidence and impact of subclinical ketosis and improving the health and productivity of dairy cattle.展开更多
Background Goat breeds in the Alpine area and Mediterranean basin exhibit a unique genetic heritage shaped by centuries of selection and adaptability to harsh environments.Understanding their adaptive traits can aid b...Background Goat breeds in the Alpine area and Mediterranean basin exhibit a unique genetic heritage shaped by centuries of selection and adaptability to harsh environments.Understanding their adaptive traits can aid breeding programs target enhanced resilience and productivity,especially as we are facing important climate and agriculture challenges.To this aim the genomic architecture of 480 goats belonging to five breeds(i.e.,Saanen[SAA],Camosciata delle Alpi[CAM],Murciano-Granadina[MUR],Maltese[MAL],Sarda[SAR])reared in the Sardinia Island were genotyped and their genomic architecture evaluated to find molecular basis of adaptive traits.Inbreeding,runs of homozygosity(ROH)and runs of heterozygosity(ROHet)were identified.Finally,candidate genes in the ROH and ROHet regions were explored through a pathway analysis to assess their molecular role.Results In total,we detected 10,341 ROH in the SAA genome,11,063 ROH in the CAM genome,12,250 ROH in the MUR genome,8,939 ROH in the MAL genome,and 18,441 ROH in the SAR genome.Moreover,we identified 4,087 ROHet for SAA,3,360 for CAM,2,927 for MUR,3,701 for MAL,and 3,576 for SAR,with SAR having the highest heterozygosity coefficient.Interestingly,when computing the inbreeding coefficient using homozygous segment(FROH),SAA showed the lowest value while MAL the highest one,suggesting the need to improve selecting strategies to preserve genetic diversity within the population.Among the most significant candidate genes,we identified several ones linked to different physiological functions,such as milk production(e.g.,DGAT1,B4GALT1),immunity(GABARAP,GPS2)and adaptation to environment(e.g.,GJA3,GJB2 and GJB6).Conclusions This study highlighted the genetic diversity within and among five goat breeds.The high levels of ROH identified in some breeds might indicate high levels of inbreeding and a lack in genetic variation,which might negatively impact the animal population.Conversely,high levels of ROHet might indicate regions of the genetic diversity,beneficial for breed health and resilience.Therefore,these findings could aid breeding programs in managing inbreeding and preserving genetic diversity.展开更多
Gastrointestinal(GI)parasites are a global concern and cause serious damage to the health of animals,including horses,because of their deleterious effects on the health of these animals.Owing to improperly diagnosing ...Gastrointestinal(GI)parasites are a global concern and cause serious damage to the health of animals,including horses,because of their deleterious effects on the health of these animals.Owing to improperly diagnosing the parasitic load and the resulting incorrect treatment,anthelmintics are becoming a global problem.Although rapid diagnostic techniques such as McMaster and FECPAK^(G2) are available in Africa,concentration techniques,including flotation and sedimentation,are commonly used in screening for gastrointestinal parasites.In this study,we compared the sensitivity of diagnostic techniques,namely,McMaster and FECPAK^(G2),in quantifying and determining the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites as an alternative to the commonly used flotation and sedimentation techniques for equine fecal samples in Jos,Plateau State,Nigeria.Three hundred fecal samples were collected from different locations.The instructions provided by the manufacturers of FECPAK^(G2) and McMasters were used as the methodology for egg count per gram of fecal matter,while parasite egg/ova identification was performed through sedimentation and flotation techniques.In general,a prevalence of 66.3%was recorded,with a higher prevalence on Babale ranch(84%)than on Jos Polo Club(62%)and Jos mounted troop(53%).A total of nine gastrointestinal parasites were identified via both sedimentation and flotation techniques:Strongylus spp.(19.3%)was the most prevalent parasite identified via the flotation method,whereas Gastrodiscus aegyptiacus(25.3%)was the most prevalent parasite identified via the sedimentation technique.In general,FECPAK^(G2) had a sensitivity of 86%,whereas McMaster had a sensitivity of 64%in terms of egg counts per gram of fecal sample.This finding suggests that equines in Jos are highly infected with a variety of gastrointestinal parasites to varying degrees,with Strongylus spp.and Gastrodiscus aegyptiacus being more prevalent.Although the parasite load was found to range from low to moderate levels,the majority of the equine samples contained<200 eggs per gram,suggesting a low infection rate via both the McMaster technique and the FECPAK^(G2) technique.On the basis of these findings,FECPAK^(G2) is recommended for rapid diagnosis because of its prompt outcome and infestation rate as well as ease of routine examination.Additionally,routine examination should be carried out to determine infestation by gastrointestinal parasites in all equine holdings and the effectiveness of the therapeutic agents used.展开更多
Background Insect meals have been identified as innovative and sustainable feedstuffs that could be used in ruminant nutrition.However,current research on the effects that their processing may have on rumen digestibil...Background Insect meals have been identified as innovative and sustainable feedstuffs that could be used in ruminant nutrition.However,current research on the effects that their processing may have on rumen digestibility and fatty acid(FA)biohydrogenation is scant.This trial aims to investigate the effects(i)of drying temperature of fullfat Hermetia illucens(HI)and Tenebrio molitor(TM)meals,and(ii)of residual ether extract(EE)content of defatted HI and TM meals,on their fermentation characteristics and FA of rumen digesta after 24-h in vitro rumen incubation.Methods The tested full-fat meals included four HI and four TM meals obtained applying drying temperatures ranging from 30℃ to 70℃,while the tested defatted meals consisted of five HI and two TM meals containing a residual EE content ranging from 4.7 to 19.7 g EE/100 g dry matter(DM).The applied statistical models(GLM ANOVA)tested the effects of insect species,drying temperature(full-fat meals)or EE content(defatted meals),and their interaction.Results Drying temperature had minor effects on in vitro ruminal digestibility and FA profile of rumen digesta.Irrespective of insect species,increasing the drying temperature led to a reduction of in vitro degradation of proteins from insect meals,as outlined by the significant decrease in ammonia production(-0.009 mmol/g DM and-0.126 g/100 g total N for each additional 1℃).Irrespective of insect species,defatting increased total gas,volatile fatty acids(VFA)and CH_(4) productions,and the proportions of total saturated and branched-chain FA in rumen digesta(+0.038 mmol/g DM,+0.063 mmol/g DM,+12.9μmol/g DM,+0.18 g/100 g FA,and+0.19 g/100 g FA for each reduced 1 g EE/100 g DM,respectively),and reduced the proportion of total PUFA(-0.12 g/100 g FA).Conclusions The applied drying temperatures of full-fat insect meals are too low to exert impactful effects on rumen digestibility and FA biohydrogenation.Fat lowered fermentation activity,probably because of an inhibitory effect on rumen microbiota.The increased ruminal digestibility of defatted insect meals suggests that they can be more suitable to be used in ruminant nutrition than full-fat ones.展开更多
Porcine deltacoronavirus(PDCoV)is a swine enteropathogenic CoV that causes severe vomiting,diarrhea and dehydration in suckling piglets,leading to economic losses in the swine industry.There is a great need for a conv...Porcine deltacoronavirus(PDCoV)is a swine enteropathogenic CoV that causes severe vomiting,diarrhea and dehydration in suckling piglets,leading to economic losses in the swine industry.There is a great need for a convenient method to detect circulating antibodies and help in accurate diagnosis and disease control.Previously,we demonstrated that a unique PDCoV accessory protein,NS6,is expressed during PDCoV infection in pigs and is incorporated into PDCoV virions;thus,we deduced that NS6 is likely an immunogenic target that can be used for the diagnosis of PDCoV infection.In this study,we first confirmed that NS6 is immunogenic in PDCoV-infected pigs by perform-ing a serum western blot.Furthermore,we developed a novel NS6-based indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(iELISA)method and compared it to an established S1-based iELISA for the survey of anti-PDCoV IgG or IgA in pigs of different ages in China.The NS6-iELISA has high specificity for the detection of IgG antibodies and no cross-reactivity with other porcine enteric CoVs(transmissible gastroenteritis coronavirus,porcine epidemic diarrhea virus,or swine acute diarrhea syndrome coronavirus).This NS6 serology-based method has great sensitivity and good repeatability,making it a new and cost-saving option for the rapid diagnosis and immunosurveillance of PDCoV,which may also be important for the prevention and control of deltacoronavirus-related infection in pigs and other animals.展开更多
Mastitis often occurs during women's lactation period,causing great psychological and physical pain to women.Fucoidan,a sulfated polysaccharide obtained from brown algae,has much broader biological properties.Howe...Mastitis often occurs during women's lactation period,causing great psychological and physical pain to women.Fucoidan,a sulfated polysaccharide obtained from brown algae,has much broader biological properties.However,the roles of fucoidan in lipopolysaccharides(LPS)-induced mastitis are still undiscovered.The present study was aimed to evaluate the influences of fucoidan on LPS-induced mouse mastitis and investigate its possible mechanisms.The expression profiles of fucoidan acting on mastitis were analyzed by network pharmacology.Additionally,mechanism experiments verified the mechanism of fucoidan on mastitis.The results of in vivo study displayed that the treatment of fucoidan to LPS-stimulated mouse mastitis decreased the inflammatory damage,proinflammatory cytokines level and repaired the completeness of bloodmilk barrier.In the study of mouse mammary epithelial cells,fucoidan suppressed the secretion of reactive oxygen species(ROS)and enhanced the activity of antioxidant enzymes.Molecular experiments suggested that fucoidan promoted nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2(Nrf2)nuclear import and autophagy via activating the adenosine 5'-monophosphate-activated protein kinase(AMPK)signaling pathway.The above results indicated that in mastitis,fucoidan promoted Nrf2 nuclear import and autophagy via activating the AMPK signaling pathway,thereby suppressing oxidative stress and inflammatory injury to the mammary glands and protecting the blood-milk barrier.展开更多
Background The present experiment aimed to evaluate the effects of commercially processed former foodstuffs(cFF)as dietary substitutes of corn,soybean meal and soybean oil on the growth performance,apparent total trac...Background The present experiment aimed to evaluate the effects of commercially processed former foodstuffs(cFF)as dietary substitutes of corn,soybean meal and soybean oil on the growth performance,apparent total tract digestibil-ity(ATTD),hematobiochemical profiles,and liver gene abundance in broiler chickens.Two hundred one-day-old male ROSS-308 chicks were assigned to 4 dietary groups(5 replicates of ten birds per replicate)according to their average body weight(BW,38.0±0.11 g).All groups received a two-phase feeding program:starter,d 1–12 and grower,d 12–33.The control group(cFF0)was fed a standard commercial feed based on corn,soybean meal and soybean oil.The other three groups received diets in which the feed based on corn,soybean meal,and soybean oil was partially replaced with cFF at a substitution level of 6.25%(cFF6.25),12.5%(cFF12.5)or 25%(cFF25)for the following 33 d.Results The growth performance data showed no differences in BW or average daily gain among groups,although the average daily feed intake decreased during the grower period(12–33 d)and over entire experimental period(1–33 d)in a linear manner as the cFF inclusion level rose(P=0.026),positively affecting the gain to feed ratio(P=0.001).The ATTD of dry matter of the cFF-fed groups were greater with respect to control group and increased throughout the experimental period,whereas the ATTD of ether extract linearly decreased with increasing levels of cFF-fed groups compared with control group and throughout the experimental period(P<0.05).Additionally,a lin-ear increase in the heterophil to lymphocyte ratio,serum cholesterol,triglycerides and alanine-aminotransferase were observed with increasing dietary levels of cFF(P<0.05);however,no differences were observed in lipoprotein lipase or sterol regulatory element binding transcription factor gene abundance.Conclusions The results of this experiment demonstrate that it is possible to incorporate cFF into nutritionally balanced diets for broiler chickens,even up to 25%substitution levels,for up to 33 d without adversely impacting the overall growth performance of male broiler chickens raised under commercial conditions.Further studies are essential to validate the hematological trait findings.展开更多
Background Meat goat production is a worldwide industry with products such as meat,milk,soap,and fiber being produced.There are approximately 2.6 million meat goats in the United States.For breeding female ruminants,e...Background Meat goat production is a worldwide industry with products such as meat,milk,soap,and fiber being produced.There are approximately 2.6 million meat goats in the United States.For breeding female ruminants,early pregnancy loss is estimated to be 30%within the first month of gestation.Extracellular L-citrulline(a precursor to L-arginine)is not degraded by ruminal microbes due to the lack of uptake.L-Arginine and thus L-citrulline,have beneficial impacts on placentation and,subsequently,fetal-placental development and survival.This study aimed to determine the impact of feeding L-citrulline to meat goats during gestation to improve reproductive success.Meat goats were fed either a control(CON)or L-citrulline(CIT)supplemented diet from d 12 to 82 of gestation.Blood samples were collected and sera were subjected to high-performance liquid chromatography analyses to quantify the abundance of amino acids.Pregnancy rates were determined on d 30,61,and 90 of gestation,and litter weight,individual birth weights,and 90 d adjusted weaning weights were collected.Results The concentrations of citrulline,ornithine,and arginine were greater in CIT does compared to CON does,but there was no difference in pregnancy rates between CON and CIT does.Birth weight was greater for male kids born as singles when compared to females,but this phenotype was not observed for kids born as twins or triplets.Further,males born to CON does had greater 90 d adjusted weaning weights than females,but this was not observed in the CIT group.Female kids born to CON and CIT Boer goats had heavier 90 d adjusted weaning weights than those born to Spanish or F1 Boer-Spanish does.Conclusion This study provides proof of concept that feeding dietary L-citrulline increases concentrations of citrul-line and arginine in blood of gestating meat goats.However,further studies are needed to understand the cellular mechanisms impacted by feeding this supplement.Regardless,this study demonstrated that feeding L-citrulline has the potential to increase reproductive performance in gestating ruminants.展开更多
BACKGROUND Syngeneic orthotopic tumor models offer an optimal functional tumor–immune interface for hepatocellular carcinoma research.Yet,unpredictable growth kinetics and spontaneous regression pose major obstacles....BACKGROUND Syngeneic orthotopic tumor models offer an optimal functional tumor–immune interface for hepatocellular carcinoma research.Yet,unpredictable growth kinetics and spontaneous regression pose major obstacles.Efficient induction protocols and continuous monitoring are therefore essential.Routine exploratory surgeries are ethically untenable,making non-invasive imaging modalities attractive alternatives.High-resolution magnetic resonance imaging and microcomputed tomography deliver detailed insights but incur substantial equipment costs,radiation risks,time demands,and require specialized expertise—challenges that limit their routine use.In contrast,ultrasound(US)imaging emerges as a cost-effective,radiation-free,and rapid approach,facilitating practical and ethical longitudinal assessment of tumor progression in preclinical studies.AIM To optimize the orthotopic hepatocellular carcinoma model and evaluate the potential of US imaging for accurate and cost-effective tumor monitoring.METHODS Hepatocellular carcinoma was induced in 28 Sprague Dawley rats by implanting 5×10^(6) N1S1 cells into the left lateral hepatic lobe.Tumor progression was monitored weekly via US.Upon reaching 100-150 mm^(3),an experimental group(n=14)received Sorafenib(40 mg/kg)orally on alternate days for 28 days;efficacy was compared to untreated controls.US accuracy was validated against micro-computed tomography,gross caliper measurements and histopathological analysis.Reliability and operator proficiency in US assessment were also evaluated.RESULTS US images procured 7-day post-surgery revealed a well-defined hypoechoic nodule at the left liver lobe tip,confirming successful tumor induction(mean volume 130±39 mm^(3)).Only three animals exhibited spontaneous regression by week 2,underscoring the model’s stability.Sorafenib treatment elicited a marked tumor reduction(678±103 mm^(3))vs untreated control(6005±1760 mm^(3)).US assessment demonstrated robust intra and interobserver reproducibility with high sensitivity and specificity for tumor detection.Moreover,US derived volumes correlated strongly with gross caliper measurements,histopathological analysis,and microcomputed tomography imaging,validating its reliability as a non-invasive monitoring tool in preclinical hepatocellular carcinoma studies.CONCLUSION The results demonstrate that US imaging is a reliable,cost-effective,and animal sparing approach with an easy tomaster protocol,enabling monitoring of tumor progression and therapeutic response in orthotopic liver tumor models.展开更多
Background The prolificacy of sows(litter size at birth)has markedly increased,leading to higher post-natal mor-tality.Heat stress can exacerbate this issue.Arginine plays an important role in several physiological pa...Background The prolificacy of sows(litter size at birth)has markedly increased,leading to higher post-natal mor-tality.Heat stress can exacerbate this issue.Arginine plays an important role in several physiological pathways;its effect on gestating sows can depend on the period of supplementation.This study evaluated the effects of arginine supplementation on the productive performance and physiological status of sows during different gestation periods and seasons,using a multi-omics approach.Methods A total of 320 sows were divided into 4 groups over 2 seasons(warm/cold);a control group(CO)received a standard diet(including 16.5 g/d of arginine)and 3 other groups received the standard diet supplemented with 21.8 g/d of arginine(38.3 g/d of arginine)either during the first 35 d(Early35),the last 45 d(Late45)or through-out the entire gestation period(COM).The colostrum was analyzed for nutritional composition,immunoglobulins and metabolomic profile.Urine and feces were analyzed on d 35 and 106 for the metabolomic and microbial profiles.Piglet body weight and mortality were recorded at birth,d 6,d 26,and on d 14 post-weaning.Results Interactions between arginine and season were never significant.The Early35 group had a lower percent-age of stillborn(P<0.001),mummified(P=0.002)and low birthweight(LBW)piglets(P=0.02)than the CO group.The Late45 group had a lower percentage of stillborn piglets(P=0.029)and a higher percentage of high birthweight piglets(HBW;P<0.001)than the CO group.The COM group had a higher percentage of LBW(P=0.004)and crushed piglets(P<0.001)than the CO group.Arginine supplementation modifies the metabolome characterization of colos-trum,urine,and feces.Creatine and nitric oxide pathways,as well as metabolites related to microbial activity,were influenced in all matrices.A slight trend in the beta diversity index was observed in the microbiome profile on d 35(P=0.064).Conclusions Arginine supplementation during early gestation reduced the percentage of stillborn and LBW piglets,while in the last third of pregnancy,it favored the percentage of HBW pigs and reduced the percentage of stillbirths,showing that arginine plays a significant role in the physiology of pregnant sows.展开更多
The canine gut microbiome plays a vital role in overall health and well-being by regulating various physiological functions,including digestion,immune responses,energy metabolism,and even behavior and temperament.As s...The canine gut microbiome plays a vital role in overall health and well-being by regulating various physiological functions,including digestion,immune responses,energy metabolism,and even behavior and temperament.As such,a comprehensive understanding of the diversity and functional roles of the canine gut microbiome is crucial for maintaining optimal health and well-being.In healthy dogs,the gut microbiome typically consists of a diverse array of bacterial phyla,including Firmicutes,Bacteroidetes,Actinobacteria,Fusobacteria,and Proteobacteria.These microbial communities form a complex ecosystem that interacts with the host to support canine health and homeostasis.A well-balanced microbiome,known as eubiosis,represents an optimized microbial composition that enhances host health and metabolic functions.Eubiosis is shaped by interactions between host physiology and environmental factors.However,dysbiosis,a disruption of eubiosis,can contribute to various health issues,such as weight fluctuations,metabolic disorders,and behavioral changes.Maintaining eubiosis in the canine gut microbiome requires customized management strategies that consider both physiological traits and environmental influences.In this review,we explored the structure and function of the canine gut microbiome,with particular emphasis on its role in health and the key factors that influence and support its maintenance.展开更多
基金Supported by the Research Project Grant(Giken 2012–2016A)from Meiji University
文摘Objective:To characterize obese or overweight dogs that visited private Japanese veterinary clinics located in humid subtropical climate zones.Methods:Dogs were categorized into four body condition score groups and five body size groups based on their breed.Multilevel logistic regression models were applied to the data.A Chi-squared test was used to examine whether the percentage of obese or overweight dogs differed between breeds.Results:There were 15.1% obese dogs and 39.8% overweight dogs.Obese dogs were characterized by increased age and female sex,whereas overweight dogs were characterized by increased age and neuter status(P < 0.05).Peak probabilities of dogs being either obese or overweight were between 7 and 9 years of age,with the probabilities then declining as the dogs got older.For example,in toy sized dogs,the probability of dogs being overweight increased from 33.4% to a peak of 55.1% as dog age rose from 1 to 8years old.Also,in medium,small and toy sized dogs,neutered dogs were more likely to be overweight than intact dogs,whereas neutered small sized dogs were more likely to be obese than intact small sized dogs(P < 0.05).Additionally,the percentages of obese or overweight dogs differed between the 10 selected breeds with the highest percentage of obese or overweight dogs.Conclusions:By taking age,body size,sex and neuter status into account,veterinarians can advise owners about maintaining their dogs in ideal body condition.
文摘Laboratories play significant roles in all the critical processes of detecting rapid infectious disease outbreaks,risk assessments,early warnings,early responses and notifications,and monitoring and surveillance[1,2].Veterinary Laboratories(VLs)that rapidly identify,respond to and control rapidly spreading and emerging(or re-emerging)infectious and zoonotic diseases is critical to:(1)the financial performance of animal agriculture and international trade;(2)livelihoods of animal related industries;and(3)nutritional status,food security,and the socio-economic well-being of a country[3].
文摘The management systems currently used in the Italian healthcare sector provide fragmented and incomplete information on this system and are generally unlikely to give accurate information on the performances of the healthcare processes. The present paper introduces a combined discrete event simulation (DES)/business process management (BPM) approach as innovative means to study the workflow of the activities within the Department of Laboratory Medicine of the “San Paolo” Hospital in Naples (Italy). After a first “As-Is” analysis to identify the current workflows of the system and to gather information regarding its behaviour, a following DES-based “What-If” analysis is implemented to figure out alternative work hypotheses in order to highlight possible modifications to the system’s response under varying operating conditions and improve its overall performances. The structure of the simulation program is explained and the results of the scenario analysis are discussed. The paper starts with a brief exploration of the use of DES in healthcare and ends with general observations on the subject.
文摘The study was designed to evaluate the level of knowledge of Nigerian Veterinary Laboratory Staff on the nature of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) disease using structured questionnaires. The study comprised the Staff of National Veterinary Research Institute (NVRI) and five reference Veterinary Teaching Hospitals (VTH) designated for HPAI diagnosis. A total of 69 questionnaires were distributed to the laboratory staff. Questions on the general nature of the disease such as the cause, signs, mode of transmission, methods of identification, lesions, control and prevention, etc. were asked. The results showed that 77.38% of the staff answered all the questions correctly indicating their considerable knowledge of the HPAI disease. Considerable percentage of the staff listed correctly the equipment used for serology (36.23%) and RT-PCR (31.88%). Interestingly only 13.04% of the staff listed correctly the equipment used in rapid tests despite the fact that they are simpler and recommended for all P2 laboratories. In conclusion, the veterinary laboratory staff assessed demonstrated a significant level of knowledge on HPAI diagnosis;however, most of their laboratories lack the structure, organization, funds and basic facilities required for effective HPAI diagnosis.
文摘Misuse, overuse, and missed prescription of antimicrobials are the driving factors to antimicrobial resistance (AMR) leading to a globally increasing public health concern. This study was conducted to assess the current knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of village animal health workers (VAHWs) and veterinary drug retailers (VDRs) on antimicrobial use (AMU) and antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The sample size was calculated following [1]. KAP data were scored and categorized following Bloom’s cut-off score. A total of 108 study populations (66 VAHWs and 42 VDRs) were purposively surveyed using a validated KAP questionnaire in 5 provinces across Cambodia. This study found that VAHWs and VDRs have moderate levels of knowledge (61% to 65%) and good attitudes towards AMU (83% to 84%) but employed moderate practices (59% to 74%) on AMU. VAHWs had moderate (66%);while DVRs had poor knowledge (58%) on AMR. Thus, regular awareness education specifically on proper use, prudent use, and stewardships on AMU and AMR in the form of refresher training or awareness events must be provided to VAHWs and VDRs to avoid inappropriate use of antimicrobials and spreading the AMR knowledge across Cambodia.
文摘Albendazole is a benzimidazole derivative with broad spectrum of activity against nematodes and cestodes infections in animals. Bulk of the needed drugs in West African sub-region is imported and adulteration in drug trade is common. This study was aimed at examining the quality of nine brands of veterinary albendazole boluses commonly used in Nigeria. Bolus weight uniformity, assay, hardness, friability, disintegration time, and dissolution profiles of the brands （250 mg/bolus） were tested according to the official specifications. All the brands tested failed bolus weight uniformity test except brands C and H. The percent albendazole in brands A, B, C and F were within official specification whereas D, E, G, H and I failed. None of the brands passed hardness test. All the products passed friability test except brand E. All the test brands disintegrated within the specified time except B and H. Only brands B, C, E and I passed the dissolution test. Consequently, only brands B and C could be interchanged with the reference. There is need for routine quality control and post market surveillance of veterinary drugs in Nigeria.
基金financially supported by the Green Development and Demonstration Programme(GUDP)(case number 34009-19-1585)。
文摘Background Post-weaning diarrhea(PWD)in piglets,often caused by F4^(+)enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli(ETEC),poses significant challenges in pig production.Traditional solutions like antibiotics and zinc oxide face increasing restrictions due to growing concerns over antibiotic resistance and environmental sustainability.This study investigates the application of bivalent heavy chain variable domain(V_(H)H)constructs(BL1.2 and BL2.2)targeting ETEC virulence factors,administered in feed to mitigate ETEC-induced PWD in weaned piglets.Results The supplementation of BL1.2 and BL2.2 in both mash and pelleted feed significantly reduced the diarrhea incidence and fecal shedding of F4^(+)ETEC in challenged piglets.Pelleted feed containing V_(H)H constructs helped to preserve gut barrier integrity by maintaining levels of the tight junction protein occludin in the small intestine.Additionally,the constructs maintained blood granulocyte counts at a similar level to the non-challenged control group,including neutrophils,and ameliorated the acute phase protein response after challenge.Notably,even at low feed intake immediately after weaning,V_(H)H constructs helped maintain piglet health by mitigating ETEC-induced inflammation and the resulting diarrhea.Conclusions Our findings demonstrated that using V_(H)H constructs as feed additives could serve as an effective strategy to help manage ETEC-associated PWD,by reducing F4^(+)ETEC gut colonization and supporting gut barrier function of weaned piglets.The high stability of these V_(H)H constructs supports their incorporation into industrial feed manufacturing processes,offering a more sustainable preventive strategy compared to traditional antimicrobial interventions,which could contribute to sustainable farming practices.
文摘Tracheal collapse(TC),defined by excessive tracheal collapsibility,often results in severe respiratory distress in small-breed dogs.Surgical intervention,including the placement of extraluminal stents,has been employed as a treatment option.Owing to the anatomical and physiological similarities between rabbit and canine tracheas,a rabbit model was utilized to develop a novel extraluminal silicone tracheal stent and evaluate its feasibility in treating tracheomalacia.The stent was surgically implanted in eight New Zealand White rabbits after the induction of tracheomalacia.Postoperative evaluations,including clinical assessment,radiography,computed tomography(CT),and histological analysis,were performed at 1,2,and 6 months post-implantation.All rabbits in the stent group survived without exhibiting signs of respiratory distress,whereas all rabbits in the tracheomalacia group experienced respiratory distress,with one succumbing to respiratory failure.Radiographic and CT evaluations confirmed that the stent effectively maintained airway patency,with tracheal measurements not significantly different from the preoperative values,indicating successful restora-tion of tracheal diameter.Histological analysis demonstrated minimal inflammatory response,the absence of fibrosis,and preserved structural integrity of the tracheal cartilage.Therefore,the novel extraluminal silicone tracheal stent provides effective airway support while minimizing adverse tissue reactions.Further studies,including the use of this stent in a canine TC model and assessment of its long-term outcomes,are warranted to explore its potential clinical applications in veterinary medicine.
基金supported by grants received from CAAST-ACLH(NAHEP/CAAST/2018-19)of ICAR-World Bank-funded National Agricultural Higher Education Project(NAHEP).
文摘Background:Although many sugars are known antibacterial in higher concentrations(>50%W/V)and a few at low concentrations too(≤1 mg/mL),most of the studies are limited to only a few reference isolates,therefore no concrete conclusion can be drawn.Methods:This study evaluated the antimicrobial potential of 19 sugars against 8000 isolates of bacteria belonging to 46 genera and also against 30 reference strains of microbes of 14 different species.To determine susceptibility to sugars,a sugar-disc(1 mg)diffusion assay was performed on Mueller Hinton agar using the same method used for antimicrobial susceptibility of microbial strains.Results:In the study,of 3,336 isolates of Gram-positive bacteria 147(4.35%)were susceptible to one or more sugars but only 16(0.37%)of the 4644 isolates of Gram-negative bacteria were susceptible to one or other sugar.Gram-positive bacteria were significantly more often susceptible to one or more sugars than isolates of Gram-negative bacteria(OR 13.33,CI99,6.74–26.37).A total of 163 test-isolates(2.04%)but none of the reference strains were sugar susceptible.Most of the isolates susceptible to sugars(135 of 2,295)were members of the Bacillaceae(36/679)and Micrococcaceae(99/1,616)family.However,out of 5,705 isolates belonging to other bacterial families,only 28 isolates(0.49%)were susceptible to one or more sugars.The most effective to least effective sugars as antibacterial were mannose,inositol,mannitol,sucrose,raffinose,ribose,xylose,trehalose,dulcitol,maltose,lactose,inulin,salicin,melibiose,sorbitol,adonitol,arabinose,glucose,and esculin,inhibiting 69,58,23,14,11,10,10,7,7,7,6,6,5,5,5,5,2,1,and 1 of the test-isolates,respectively.Conclusion:The results are still intriguing in determining the utility of sugar susceptibility of different bacteria and are still beyond making any conclusion for their therapeutic utility.However,the study can be concluded that Gram-positive bacteria are generally more susceptible to lower concentrations of different sugars than Gram-negative bacteria,and various sugars have variable selectivity in their antibacterial effect on multiple types of bacteria.
基金supported in part by the Agriculture and Food Research Initiative Competitive Grants#2022-67015-36319 and#2024-67034-42234 from USDA-NIFA(United States Department of Agriculture–National Institute of Food and Agriculture).
文摘Background Adipose tissue plays a central role in regulating whole-body metabolic health,facilitated by the variety of cell types and their wide-ranging functions.In addition,depot-specific differences in adipose tissue have been shown to play important roles in different disease states including obesity,diabetes,and metabolic dysfunction in human and animal models.For early postpartum dairy cattle,metabolic dysfunction,triggered by a negative energy balance,is often manifested as subclinical ketosis(SCK).However,the role that subcutaneous(SAT)and visceral(VAT)adipose tissue depots,and their diverse cellular compositions,play in the response to subclinical ketosis conditions is unclear.Results Flank SAT and omental VAT were collected via laparotomy from five non-ketotic(NK;BHB≤0.8 mmol/L)and five subclinical ketosis(SCK;1.4 mmol/L<BHB≤2.6 mmol/L)multiparous cows during early lactation.Following collection,nuclei were isolated from the tissue and subjected to single-nuclei RNA sequencing in order to investigate the transcriptional cellular heterogeneity.Distinct clusters of adipocytes(AD),adipose stem/progenitor cells(ASPC),immune cells(IMC),endothelial cells(EC),and pericyte/smooth muscle cells(PE/SMC)were identified in both adipose depots,with a greater abundance of ASPC in SAT compared to VAT.In addition,we identified a VAT-specific AD subtype characterized by higher expression of progenitor-like marker genes.While the abundance of none of the identified cell subtypes were different between SCK and NK,underlying transcriptional changes provided insight into potential effects of SCK.In general,SCK was associated with pro-lipogenic,anti-inflammatory,and pro-angiogenic transcriptional changes,possibly indicating a greater capacity for homeostatic responsiveness in SAT under conditions of enhanced negative energy balance.In contrast,SCK appeared to promote transcriptional changes indicative of impaired adipogenesis,impaired angiogenesis,and increased inflammation in VAT.Conclusions Uniquely,our study presents novel insight into the cellular heterogeneity of adipose tissue in dairy cattle with subclinical ketosis.Furthering our understanding of the role of adipose tissue in response to this form of metabolic challenge has the potential to enhance efforts aimed at limiting the incidence and impact of subclinical ketosis and improving the health and productivity of dairy cattle.
基金supported by the Italian Ministry of Agriculture,Food Sovereignty and Forests(project GOOD-MILK,D.M.9367185—09/12/2020,CUP C29C20000450001,Roma,Italy)the Regional Government of Sardinia(Progetto Strategico Sulcis,CUP J73C17000070007,Cagliari,Italy).
文摘Background Goat breeds in the Alpine area and Mediterranean basin exhibit a unique genetic heritage shaped by centuries of selection and adaptability to harsh environments.Understanding their adaptive traits can aid breeding programs target enhanced resilience and productivity,especially as we are facing important climate and agriculture challenges.To this aim the genomic architecture of 480 goats belonging to five breeds(i.e.,Saanen[SAA],Camosciata delle Alpi[CAM],Murciano-Granadina[MUR],Maltese[MAL],Sarda[SAR])reared in the Sardinia Island were genotyped and their genomic architecture evaluated to find molecular basis of adaptive traits.Inbreeding,runs of homozygosity(ROH)and runs of heterozygosity(ROHet)were identified.Finally,candidate genes in the ROH and ROHet regions were explored through a pathway analysis to assess their molecular role.Results In total,we detected 10,341 ROH in the SAA genome,11,063 ROH in the CAM genome,12,250 ROH in the MUR genome,8,939 ROH in the MAL genome,and 18,441 ROH in the SAR genome.Moreover,we identified 4,087 ROHet for SAA,3,360 for CAM,2,927 for MUR,3,701 for MAL,and 3,576 for SAR,with SAR having the highest heterozygosity coefficient.Interestingly,when computing the inbreeding coefficient using homozygous segment(FROH),SAA showed the lowest value while MAL the highest one,suggesting the need to improve selecting strategies to preserve genetic diversity within the population.Among the most significant candidate genes,we identified several ones linked to different physiological functions,such as milk production(e.g.,DGAT1,B4GALT1),immunity(GABARAP,GPS2)and adaptation to environment(e.g.,GJA3,GJB2 and GJB6).Conclusions This study highlighted the genetic diversity within and among five goat breeds.The high levels of ROH identified in some breeds might indicate high levels of inbreeding and a lack in genetic variation,which might negatively impact the animal population.Conversely,high levels of ROHet might indicate regions of the genetic diversity,beneficial for breed health and resilience.Therefore,these findings could aid breeding programs in managing inbreeding and preserving genetic diversity.
文摘Gastrointestinal(GI)parasites are a global concern and cause serious damage to the health of animals,including horses,because of their deleterious effects on the health of these animals.Owing to improperly diagnosing the parasitic load and the resulting incorrect treatment,anthelmintics are becoming a global problem.Although rapid diagnostic techniques such as McMaster and FECPAK^(G2) are available in Africa,concentration techniques,including flotation and sedimentation,are commonly used in screening for gastrointestinal parasites.In this study,we compared the sensitivity of diagnostic techniques,namely,McMaster and FECPAK^(G2),in quantifying and determining the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites as an alternative to the commonly used flotation and sedimentation techniques for equine fecal samples in Jos,Plateau State,Nigeria.Three hundred fecal samples were collected from different locations.The instructions provided by the manufacturers of FECPAK^(G2) and McMasters were used as the methodology for egg count per gram of fecal matter,while parasite egg/ova identification was performed through sedimentation and flotation techniques.In general,a prevalence of 66.3%was recorded,with a higher prevalence on Babale ranch(84%)than on Jos Polo Club(62%)and Jos mounted troop(53%).A total of nine gastrointestinal parasites were identified via both sedimentation and flotation techniques:Strongylus spp.(19.3%)was the most prevalent parasite identified via the flotation method,whereas Gastrodiscus aegyptiacus(25.3%)was the most prevalent parasite identified via the sedimentation technique.In general,FECPAK^(G2) had a sensitivity of 86%,whereas McMaster had a sensitivity of 64%in terms of egg counts per gram of fecal sample.This finding suggests that equines in Jos are highly infected with a variety of gastrointestinal parasites to varying degrees,with Strongylus spp.and Gastrodiscus aegyptiacus being more prevalent.Although the parasite load was found to range from low to moderate levels,the majority of the equine samples contained<200 eggs per gram,suggesting a low infection rate via both the McMaster technique and the FECPAK^(G2) technique.On the basis of these findings,FECPAK^(G2) is recommended for rapid diagnosis because of its prompt outcome and infestation rate as well as ease of routine examination.Additionally,routine examination should be carried out to determine infestation by gastrointestinal parasites in all equine holdings and the effectiveness of the therapeutic agents used.
基金partially granted by the Hi-Ga project,which is part of the programme of the Green ERA-Hub that has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon Europe research and innovation programme under Grant Agreement No.101056828self-financed by the DINAMIC team of the UMR Herbivores(INRAE,VetAgro Sup,Saint-Genès-Champanelle,France)。
文摘Background Insect meals have been identified as innovative and sustainable feedstuffs that could be used in ruminant nutrition.However,current research on the effects that their processing may have on rumen digestibility and fatty acid(FA)biohydrogenation is scant.This trial aims to investigate the effects(i)of drying temperature of fullfat Hermetia illucens(HI)and Tenebrio molitor(TM)meals,and(ii)of residual ether extract(EE)content of defatted HI and TM meals,on their fermentation characteristics and FA of rumen digesta after 24-h in vitro rumen incubation.Methods The tested full-fat meals included four HI and four TM meals obtained applying drying temperatures ranging from 30℃ to 70℃,while the tested defatted meals consisted of five HI and two TM meals containing a residual EE content ranging from 4.7 to 19.7 g EE/100 g dry matter(DM).The applied statistical models(GLM ANOVA)tested the effects of insect species,drying temperature(full-fat meals)or EE content(defatted meals),and their interaction.Results Drying temperature had minor effects on in vitro ruminal digestibility and FA profile of rumen digesta.Irrespective of insect species,increasing the drying temperature led to a reduction of in vitro degradation of proteins from insect meals,as outlined by the significant decrease in ammonia production(-0.009 mmol/g DM and-0.126 g/100 g total N for each additional 1℃).Irrespective of insect species,defatting increased total gas,volatile fatty acids(VFA)and CH_(4) productions,and the proportions of total saturated and branched-chain FA in rumen digesta(+0.038 mmol/g DM,+0.063 mmol/g DM,+12.9μmol/g DM,+0.18 g/100 g FA,and+0.19 g/100 g FA for each reduced 1 g EE/100 g DM,respectively),and reduced the proportion of total PUFA(-0.12 g/100 g FA).Conclusions The applied drying temperatures of full-fat insect meals are too low to exert impactful effects on rumen digestibility and FA biohydrogenation.Fat lowered fermentation activity,probably because of an inhibitory effect on rumen microbiota.The increased ruminal digestibility of defatted insect meals suggests that they can be more suitable to be used in ruminant nutrition than full-fat ones.
基金supported by the Zhejiang Provincial Natural Science Foundation(LZ22C180002)the Laboratory of Lingnan Modern Agriculture Project(NG2022001)the Zhejiang Provincial Key R&D Program of China(2021C02049)。
文摘Porcine deltacoronavirus(PDCoV)is a swine enteropathogenic CoV that causes severe vomiting,diarrhea and dehydration in suckling piglets,leading to economic losses in the swine industry.There is a great need for a convenient method to detect circulating antibodies and help in accurate diagnosis and disease control.Previously,we demonstrated that a unique PDCoV accessory protein,NS6,is expressed during PDCoV infection in pigs and is incorporated into PDCoV virions;thus,we deduced that NS6 is likely an immunogenic target that can be used for the diagnosis of PDCoV infection.In this study,we first confirmed that NS6 is immunogenic in PDCoV-infected pigs by perform-ing a serum western blot.Furthermore,we developed a novel NS6-based indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(iELISA)method and compared it to an established S1-based iELISA for the survey of anti-PDCoV IgG or IgA in pigs of different ages in China.The NS6-iELISA has high specificity for the detection of IgG antibodies and no cross-reactivity with other porcine enteric CoVs(transmissible gastroenteritis coronavirus,porcine epidemic diarrhea virus,or swine acute diarrhea syndrome coronavirus).This NS6 serology-based method has great sensitivity and good repeatability,making it a new and cost-saving option for the rapid diagnosis and immunosurveillance of PDCoV,which may also be important for the prevention and control of deltacoronavirus-related infection in pigs and other animals.
基金funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32102733)the Zhejiang Provincial Natural Science Foundation of China(LQ22C180004)the Longyan University&Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory for Prevention and Control of Animal Infectious Diseases and Biotechnology(ZDSYS2022002)。
文摘Mastitis often occurs during women's lactation period,causing great psychological and physical pain to women.Fucoidan,a sulfated polysaccharide obtained from brown algae,has much broader biological properties.However,the roles of fucoidan in lipopolysaccharides(LPS)-induced mastitis are still undiscovered.The present study was aimed to evaluate the influences of fucoidan on LPS-induced mouse mastitis and investigate its possible mechanisms.The expression profiles of fucoidan acting on mastitis were analyzed by network pharmacology.Additionally,mechanism experiments verified the mechanism of fucoidan on mastitis.The results of in vivo study displayed that the treatment of fucoidan to LPS-stimulated mouse mastitis decreased the inflammatory damage,proinflammatory cytokines level and repaired the completeness of bloodmilk barrier.In the study of mouse mammary epithelial cells,fucoidan suppressed the secretion of reactive oxygen species(ROS)and enhanced the activity of antioxidant enzymes.Molecular experiments suggested that fucoidan promoted nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2(Nrf2)nuclear import and autophagy via activating the adenosine 5'-monophosphate-activated protein kinase(AMPK)signaling pathway.The above results indicated that in mastitis,fucoidan promoted Nrf2 nuclear import and autophagy via activating the AMPK signaling pathway,thereby suppressing oxidative stress and inflammatory injury to the mammary glands and protecting the blood-milk barrier.
基金Department of Veterinary Sciences“Ricerca Locale–Linea A”.
文摘Background The present experiment aimed to evaluate the effects of commercially processed former foodstuffs(cFF)as dietary substitutes of corn,soybean meal and soybean oil on the growth performance,apparent total tract digestibil-ity(ATTD),hematobiochemical profiles,and liver gene abundance in broiler chickens.Two hundred one-day-old male ROSS-308 chicks were assigned to 4 dietary groups(5 replicates of ten birds per replicate)according to their average body weight(BW,38.0±0.11 g).All groups received a two-phase feeding program:starter,d 1–12 and grower,d 12–33.The control group(cFF0)was fed a standard commercial feed based on corn,soybean meal and soybean oil.The other three groups received diets in which the feed based on corn,soybean meal,and soybean oil was partially replaced with cFF at a substitution level of 6.25%(cFF6.25),12.5%(cFF12.5)or 25%(cFF25)for the following 33 d.Results The growth performance data showed no differences in BW or average daily gain among groups,although the average daily feed intake decreased during the grower period(12–33 d)and over entire experimental period(1–33 d)in a linear manner as the cFF inclusion level rose(P=0.026),positively affecting the gain to feed ratio(P=0.001).The ATTD of dry matter of the cFF-fed groups were greater with respect to control group and increased throughout the experimental period,whereas the ATTD of ether extract linearly decreased with increasing levels of cFF-fed groups compared with control group and throughout the experimental period(P<0.05).Additionally,a lin-ear increase in the heterophil to lymphocyte ratio,serum cholesterol,triglycerides and alanine-aminotransferase were observed with increasing dietary levels of cFF(P<0.05);however,no differences were observed in lipoprotein lipase or sterol regulatory element binding transcription factor gene abundance.Conclusions The results of this experiment demonstrate that it is possible to incorporate cFF into nutritionally balanced diets for broiler chickens,even up to 25%substitution levels,for up to 33 d without adversely impacting the overall growth performance of male broiler chickens raised under commercial conditions.Further studies are essential to validate the hematological trait findings.
文摘Background Meat goat production is a worldwide industry with products such as meat,milk,soap,and fiber being produced.There are approximately 2.6 million meat goats in the United States.For breeding female ruminants,early pregnancy loss is estimated to be 30%within the first month of gestation.Extracellular L-citrulline(a precursor to L-arginine)is not degraded by ruminal microbes due to the lack of uptake.L-Arginine and thus L-citrulline,have beneficial impacts on placentation and,subsequently,fetal-placental development and survival.This study aimed to determine the impact of feeding L-citrulline to meat goats during gestation to improve reproductive success.Meat goats were fed either a control(CON)or L-citrulline(CIT)supplemented diet from d 12 to 82 of gestation.Blood samples were collected and sera were subjected to high-performance liquid chromatography analyses to quantify the abundance of amino acids.Pregnancy rates were determined on d 30,61,and 90 of gestation,and litter weight,individual birth weights,and 90 d adjusted weaning weights were collected.Results The concentrations of citrulline,ornithine,and arginine were greater in CIT does compared to CON does,but there was no difference in pregnancy rates between CON and CIT does.Birth weight was greater for male kids born as singles when compared to females,but this phenotype was not observed for kids born as twins or triplets.Further,males born to CON does had greater 90 d adjusted weaning weights than females,but this was not observed in the CIT group.Female kids born to CON and CIT Boer goats had heavier 90 d adjusted weaning weights than those born to Spanish or F1 Boer-Spanish does.Conclusion This study provides proof of concept that feeding dietary L-citrulline increases concentrations of citrul-line and arginine in blood of gestating meat goats.However,further studies are needed to understand the cellular mechanisms impacted by feeding this supplement.Regardless,this study demonstrated that feeding L-citrulline has the potential to increase reproductive performance in gestating ruminants.
基金Supported by Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham Seed Grant,No.K-PHAR-24-722DST INSPIRE Fellowship,No.IF190226.
文摘BACKGROUND Syngeneic orthotopic tumor models offer an optimal functional tumor–immune interface for hepatocellular carcinoma research.Yet,unpredictable growth kinetics and spontaneous regression pose major obstacles.Efficient induction protocols and continuous monitoring are therefore essential.Routine exploratory surgeries are ethically untenable,making non-invasive imaging modalities attractive alternatives.High-resolution magnetic resonance imaging and microcomputed tomography deliver detailed insights but incur substantial equipment costs,radiation risks,time demands,and require specialized expertise—challenges that limit their routine use.In contrast,ultrasound(US)imaging emerges as a cost-effective,radiation-free,and rapid approach,facilitating practical and ethical longitudinal assessment of tumor progression in preclinical studies.AIM To optimize the orthotopic hepatocellular carcinoma model and evaluate the potential of US imaging for accurate and cost-effective tumor monitoring.METHODS Hepatocellular carcinoma was induced in 28 Sprague Dawley rats by implanting 5×10^(6) N1S1 cells into the left lateral hepatic lobe.Tumor progression was monitored weekly via US.Upon reaching 100-150 mm^(3),an experimental group(n=14)received Sorafenib(40 mg/kg)orally on alternate days for 28 days;efficacy was compared to untreated controls.US accuracy was validated against micro-computed tomography,gross caliper measurements and histopathological analysis.Reliability and operator proficiency in US assessment were also evaluated.RESULTS US images procured 7-day post-surgery revealed a well-defined hypoechoic nodule at the left liver lobe tip,confirming successful tumor induction(mean volume 130±39 mm^(3)).Only three animals exhibited spontaneous regression by week 2,underscoring the model’s stability.Sorafenib treatment elicited a marked tumor reduction(678±103 mm^(3))vs untreated control(6005±1760 mm^(3)).US assessment demonstrated robust intra and interobserver reproducibility with high sensitivity and specificity for tumor detection.Moreover,US derived volumes correlated strongly with gross caliper measurements,histopathological analysis,and microcomputed tomography imaging,validating its reliability as a non-invasive monitoring tool in preclinical hepatocellular carcinoma studies.CONCLUSION The results demonstrate that US imaging is a reliable,cost-effective,and animal sparing approach with an easy tomaster protocol,enabling monitoring of tumor progression and therapeutic response in orthotopic liver tumor models.
基金A project funded in the framework of the Rural Development Plan 2014–2020 of the Emilia Romagna region,FOCUS AREA 3A-Misura 16.2.01–GREEN SUINO Project number 5415052.Coordinated from the Gruppo Martini SPA.
文摘Background The prolificacy of sows(litter size at birth)has markedly increased,leading to higher post-natal mor-tality.Heat stress can exacerbate this issue.Arginine plays an important role in several physiological pathways;its effect on gestating sows can depend on the period of supplementation.This study evaluated the effects of arginine supplementation on the productive performance and physiological status of sows during different gestation periods and seasons,using a multi-omics approach.Methods A total of 320 sows were divided into 4 groups over 2 seasons(warm/cold);a control group(CO)received a standard diet(including 16.5 g/d of arginine)and 3 other groups received the standard diet supplemented with 21.8 g/d of arginine(38.3 g/d of arginine)either during the first 35 d(Early35),the last 45 d(Late45)or through-out the entire gestation period(COM).The colostrum was analyzed for nutritional composition,immunoglobulins and metabolomic profile.Urine and feces were analyzed on d 35 and 106 for the metabolomic and microbial profiles.Piglet body weight and mortality were recorded at birth,d 6,d 26,and on d 14 post-weaning.Results Interactions between arginine and season were never significant.The Early35 group had a lower percent-age of stillborn(P<0.001),mummified(P=0.002)and low birthweight(LBW)piglets(P=0.02)than the CO group.The Late45 group had a lower percentage of stillborn piglets(P=0.029)and a higher percentage of high birthweight piglets(HBW;P<0.001)than the CO group.The COM group had a higher percentage of LBW(P=0.004)and crushed piglets(P<0.001)than the CO group.Arginine supplementation modifies the metabolome characterization of colos-trum,urine,and feces.Creatine and nitric oxide pathways,as well as metabolites related to microbial activity,were influenced in all matrices.A slight trend in the beta diversity index was observed in the microbiome profile on d 35(P=0.064).Conclusions Arginine supplementation during early gestation reduced the percentage of stillborn and LBW piglets,while in the last third of pregnancy,it favored the percentage of HBW pigs and reduced the percentage of stillbirths,showing that arginine plays a significant role in the physiology of pregnant sows.
基金the support of"Cooperative Research Program for Agriculture Science and Technology Development(Project No.RS-2023-00230754)"Rural Development Administration,Republic of Korea.
文摘The canine gut microbiome plays a vital role in overall health and well-being by regulating various physiological functions,including digestion,immune responses,energy metabolism,and even behavior and temperament.As such,a comprehensive understanding of the diversity and functional roles of the canine gut microbiome is crucial for maintaining optimal health and well-being.In healthy dogs,the gut microbiome typically consists of a diverse array of bacterial phyla,including Firmicutes,Bacteroidetes,Actinobacteria,Fusobacteria,and Proteobacteria.These microbial communities form a complex ecosystem that interacts with the host to support canine health and homeostasis.A well-balanced microbiome,known as eubiosis,represents an optimized microbial composition that enhances host health and metabolic functions.Eubiosis is shaped by interactions between host physiology and environmental factors.However,dysbiosis,a disruption of eubiosis,can contribute to various health issues,such as weight fluctuations,metabolic disorders,and behavioral changes.Maintaining eubiosis in the canine gut microbiome requires customized management strategies that consider both physiological traits and environmental influences.In this review,we explored the structure and function of the canine gut microbiome,with particular emphasis on its role in health and the key factors that influence and support its maintenance.
