Objective: Fertilization rate of artificially inseminated cows using sexed and conventional semen in different seasons in South Papua. Materials and Methods: Eighty crossbred cows aged 4–4.5 years with body condition score 3.8 were divided into groups A (summer = 40 cows) and B (rainy season = 40 cows). Each cow in each season was artificial insemination (AI) using sexed frozen semen and conventional semen. Frozen semen was evaluated for post-thawing motility (PTM), cell membrane integrity, and acrosome damage before synchronization using 5 ml PGF2α plus vitamin E. Using a visual gun, we identified cows in estrus on days 4–7 post-synchronization. Pregnancy of cows was detected using N5Vet ultrasound on days 35 and 55. The interaction between season, semen type, and fertilization level was analyzed using standard error and two-way ANOVA, assisted by SPSS 21 software. Results: The wet season Temperature-Humidity Index (THI) level averaged 77.12 ± 1.19, and the summer season THI level averaged 82.67 ± 1.25. PTM quality averaged 60%–65%, viability 61%– 71%, sperm membrane integrity 62%–65%, and acrosome integrity 88%–91%. Conception rates (CR) value of rainy season (p < 0.05) with summer season. In addition, the services per conception (S/C) value in the rainy season (p > 0.05) is the same as in the summer. This study’s S/C and CR values were within normal limits, and the pregnancy rate reached 65%–86%. Pregnancy detection can be observed on day 35, and the fetal heartbeat is visible. Conclusion: Post-AI fertilization using conventional semen was better in all seasons. The double dose of sexed semen can increase the fertilization rate in summer. J. Adv. Vet. Anim. Res., 11(4): 954–960, December 2024 http://doi.org/10.5455/javar.2024.k845

Objective: Fertilization rate of artificially inseminated cows using sexed and conventional semen in different seasons in South Papua. Materials and Methods: Eighty crossbred cows aged 4–4.5 years with body condition score 3.8 were divided into groups A (summer = 40 cows) and B (rainy season = 40 cows). Each cow in each season was artificial insemination (AI) using sexed frozen semen and conventional semen. Frozen semen was evaluated for post-thawing motility (PTM), cell membrane integrity, and acrosome damage before synchronization using 5 ml PGF2α plus vitamin E. Using a visual gun, we identified cows in estrus on days 4–7 post-synchronization. Pregnancy of cows was detected using N5Vet ultrasound on days 35 and 55. The interaction between season, semen type, and fertilization level was analyzed using standard error and two-way ANOVA, assisted by SPSS 21 software. Results: The wet season Temperature-Humidity Index (THI) level averaged 77.12 ± 1.19, and the summer season THI level averaged 82.67 ± 1.25. PTM quality averaged 60%–65%, viability 61%– 71%, sperm membrane integrity 62%–65%, and acrosome integrity 88%–91%. Conception rates (CR) value of rainy season (p < 0.05) with summer season. In addition, the services per conception (S/C) value in the rainy season (p > 0.05) is the same as in the summer. This study's S/C and CR values were within normal limits, and the pregnancy rate reached 65%–86%. Pregnancy detection can be observed on day 35, and the fetal heartbeat is visible. Conclusion: Post-AI fertilization using conventional semen was better in all seasons. The double dose of sexed semen can increase the fertilization rate in summer. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2024; 11(4.000): 954-960]

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence, abundance, and identification of genera of gastrointestinal parasites in buffaloes belonging to an establishment in Villa Oliva, Ñeembucú Department, Paraguay. Materials and Methods: A total of 117 buffaloes were included in the study and divided into three groups of 39 (n = 39) animals—Group 1: = <12 months (G1); Group 2: = ><36 months (G2); and Group 3: >37 months (G3). All samples were tested using the saturated salt flotation. Eggs and oocyte counts were determined using McMaster’s method. Recuperation of larvae 3 was carried out after coproculture using the Baerman technique. Identification was based on morphological identification keys. Results: The presence of eggs and/or oocysts of parasites belonging to Cestoda, Protozoa, and Nematoda was noted. The prevalence of gastrointestinal nematode (GIN) was 36.75%. The highest abundance was observed in G1. After coproculture Moniezia expanza, Eimeria spp., and Haemonchus spp.; Teladorsagia spp./Ostertagia spp. were also identified. It is also observed that the incidence of nematode parasite infestation in female buffalo is high compared to males; however, in terms of microparasites, it is the opposite. According to our results, as buffalo age increased, parasite loads decreased considerably. Conclusion: Those results may link factors between hosts and the environment with the ability to maintain gastrointestinal infestation at levels that do not compromise health and body conditions. This study presented results of the prevalence, abundance, and identification of GINs from buffalos of Paraguay for the first time. J. Adv. Vet. Anim. Res., 11(4): 961–966, December 2024 http://doi.org/10.5455/javar.2024.k846

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence, abundance, and identification of genera of gastrointestinal parasites in buffaloes belonging to an establishment in Villa Oliva, Ñeembucu Department, Paraguay. Materials and Methods: A total of 117 buffaloes were included in the study and divided into three groups of 39 (n = 39) animals—Group 1: = [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2024; 11(4.000): 961-966]

Objective: This study explores consumers’ willingness to pay (WTP) for labeled and certified chicken meat in Mymensingh district, examining the key socioeconomic and demographic factors that shape these preferences. Materials and Method: Data were gathered through structured interviews with 300 participants from diverse urban and rural demographics, encompassing various occupational groups. The analysis employed logistic regression models to examine the determinants of WTP for labeling and certification, with a focus on variables such as income, education, health perception, environmental awareness, dependency ratio, and market distance. Results: The study found that a significant proportion of consumers preferred labeled (64%) and certified (71%) broiler meat. Strong links between higher income and education levels and increased WTP suggest that wealthier and more literate consumers are more likely to invest in food safety measures. Positive health and environmental perceptions also played a role, with more conscious consumers willing to pay a premium for labeled and certified products. On the other hand, a higher dependency ratio and greater market distance were associated with lower WTP, underscoring the impact of socioeconomic constraints and accessibility issues on consumer choices. Conclusion: Introducing labeling and certification systems could strengthen consumer trust and enhance public health, offering substantial benefits to both the poultry industry and the broader economy in Bangladesh. J. Adv. Vet. 11(3): 772-781, September 2024 http://doi.org/10.5455/javar.2024.k829

Objective: This study explores consumers' willingness to pay (WTP) for labeled and certified chicken meat in Mymensingh district, examining the key socioeconomic and demographic factors that shape these preferences. Materials and Method: Data were gathered through structured interviews with 300 participants from diverse urban and rural demographics, encompassing various occupational groups. The analysis employed logistic regression models to examine the determinants of WTP for labeling and certification, with a focus on variables such as income, education, health perception, environmental awareness, dependency ratio, and market distance. Results: The study found that a significant proportion of consumers preferred labeled (64%) and certified (71%) broiler meat. Strong links between higher income and education levels and increased WTP suggest that wealthier and more literate consumers are more likely to invest in food safety measures. Positive health and environmental perceptions also played a role, with more conscious consumers willing to pay a premium for labeled and certified products. On the other hand, a higher dependency ratio and greater market distance were associated with lower WTP, underscoring the impact of socioeconomic constraints and accessibility issues on consumer choices. Conclusion: Introducing labeling and certification systems could strengthen consumer trust and enhance public health, offering substantial benefits to both the poultry industry and the broader economy in Bangladesh. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2024; 11(3.000): 772-781]

Objective: The evaluation of frozen semen quality is an essential aspect in determining male fertility for artificial insemination programs. This study aims to evaluate the characteristics of Friesian Holstein (FH) bull-frozen semen in different classes (proven and unproven) based on protein profiling and molecular evaluation. Materials and Methods: This study used frozen semen straws from FH bulls selected according to criteria for proven (6 individuals) and unproven (6 individuals) bulls produced by the Singosari AI Center (AIC). Sperm motility parameters were assessed using Computer Assisted Semen Analysis (CASA Supervision®, Germany), while sperm viability and abnormality were evaluated through eosin-nigrosin staining under a microscope at 400´ magnifications. The integrity of the sperm plasma membrane was determined using the hypoosmotic swelling test, and acrosome integrity was analyzed using the fluorescein isothiocyanate PNA-propidium iodide staining method. Protamine deficiency was quantified using Chromomycin A3 fluorescence staining, while DNA fragmentation was assessed using the acridine orange technique. Results: The findings demonstrated that there were no statistically significant differences (p > 0.05) in the assessed parameters of frozen semen quality between FH-proven and unproven bulls. Furthermore, in FH-proven bulls, a negative correlation was observed between protamine deficiency and acrosome integrity (r = −0.528) and between protamine deficiency and sperm DNA fragmentation (r = −0.467). The parameters of protamine deficiency in unproven bulls exhibited a positive correlation with sperm progressive motility. Conclusion: The frozen semen quality of FH bulls in different classes (proven and unproven) was found to be equally good. Molecular-based analysis allows for a more accurate determination of semen quality. These findings are significant for bull breeding stations when comprehensively evaluating semen quality. J. Adv. Vet. Anim. Res., 11(3): 796-802, September 2024 http://doi.org/10.5455/javar.2024.k831

Objective: The evaluation of frozen semen quality is an essential aspect in determining male fertility for artificial insemination programs. This study aims to evaluate the characteristics of Friesian Holstein (FH) bull-frozen semen in different classes (proven and unproven) based on protein profiling and molecular evaluation. Materials and Methods: This study used frozen semen straws from FH bulls selected according to criteria for proven (6 individuals) and unproven (6 individuals) bulls produced by the Singosari AI Center (AIC). Sperm motility parameters were assessed using Computer Assisted Semen Analysis (CASA Supervision®, Germany), while sperm viability and abnormality were evaluated through eosin-nigrosin staining under a microscope at 400´ magnifications. The integrity of the sperm plasma membrane was determined using the hypoosmotic swelling test, and acrosome integrity was analyzed using the fluorescein isothiocyanate PNA-propidium iodide staining method. Protamine deficiency was quantified using Chromomycin A3 fluorescence staining, while DNA fragmentation was assessed using the acridine orange technique. Results: The findings demonstrated that there were no statistically significant differences (p > 0.05) in the assessed parameters of frozen semen quality between FH-proven and unproven bulls. Furthermore, in FH-proven bulls, a negative correlation was observed between protamine deficiency and acrosome integrity (r = −0.528) and between protamine deficiency and sperm DNA fragmentation (r = −0.467). The parameters of protamine deficiency in unproven bulls exhibited a positive correlation with sperm progressive motility. Conclusion: The frozen semen quality of FH bulls in different classes (proven and unproven) was found to be equally good. Molecular-based analysis allows for a more accurate determination of semen quality. These findings are significant for bull breeding stations when comprehensively evaluating semen quality. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2024; 11(3.000): 796-802]

Objective: This study aimed to analyze the compound content of the combined extracts of Langusei fruit (Ficus minahassae L.) and papaya latex (Carica papaya L.) and perform bioassays of the combination of extracts on fleas of the genus Ctenocephalides. Materials and Methods: Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) determined the chemical composition of the combined extract. The toxicity of the extract combination was evaluated in vivo on cat flea and dog flea imago separately. The combination of phytochemical screening of Langusei extract and papaya latex contained all the main phytochemical compounds. Results: The LCMS/MS analysis results showed that the combination of Langusei extract and papaya latex contained six compounds. Four compounds were identified: 3-butenyl glucosinolate, erythromycin, aluminum palmitate, and henpentakontilbenzene. Four compounds indicate a new compound. The toxicity of the combined extract was highest for both Ctenocephalides felis and Ctenocephalides canis in the P4 treatment (10%), with an average mortality of 100%, the same as the control mortality of the synthetic insecticide deltamethrin. The best LD50 for C. felis was in the F1 formula (4.003 mg/l), while in C. canis it was shown in the F3 (3.733 mg/l). Conclusion: Based on the results obtained, the combination of Langusei fruit extract and papaya latex can be developed as an ectoparasiticide for fleas of the genus Ctenocephalides. J. Adv. Vet. Anim. Res., 11(3): 810–818, September 2024 http://doi.org/10.5455/javar.2024.k833

Objective: This study aimed to analyze the compound content of the combined extracts of Langusei fruit (Ficus minahassae L.) and papaya latex (Carica papaya L.) and perform bioassays of the combination of extracts on fleas of the genus Ctenocephalides. Materials and Methods: Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) determined the chemical composition of the combined extract. The toxicity of the extract combination was evaluated in vivo on cat flea and dog flea imago separately. The combination of phytochemical screening of Langusei extract and papaya latex contained all the main phytochemical compounds. Results: The LCMS/MS analysis results showed that the combination of Langusei extract and papaya latex contained six compounds. Four compounds were identified: 3-butenyl glucosinolate, erythromycin, aluminum palmitate, and henpentakontilbenzene. Four compounds indicate a new compound. The toxicity of the combined extract was highest for both Ctenocephalides felis and Ctenocephalides canis in the P4 treatment (10%), with an average mortality of 100%, the same as the control mortality of the synthetic insecticide deltamethrin. The best LD50 for C. felis was in the F1 formula (4.003 mg/l), while in C. canis it was shown in the F3 (3.733 mg/l). Conclusion: Based on the results obtained, the combination of Langusei fruit extract and papaya latex can be developed as an ectoparasiticide for fleas of the genus Ctenocephalides. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2024; 11(3.000): 810-818]

Objective: The present study looked at how electrolytes, hormones, and postpartum reproductive physiology were affected in black Bengal goats (BBGs) when they were fed a phthalate mixture (PHA). Materials and Methods: Twenty clinically healthy BBGs, 1–2 months pregnant, aged 6–8 months with a body weight of 10–12 kg, were chosen and randomly allocated to two experimental groups (n = 10 each). The BBGs of the treatment group (n = 10) were administered a standard ration containing a mixture of Diethyl Phthalate, Dibutyl Phthalate, Di-isobutyl Phthalate, and Dipropyl Phthalate phthalate. The non-treated control group (n = 10) received the goat ration without any phthalates up to parturition. Blood samples were taken from experimental pregnant goats just before parturition to analyze serum hormone and electrolyte levels. Results: The levels of sodium, chloride, and calcium were reduced (p < 0.05) in PHA-exposed goats than in the non-exposed control group. No significant difference was observed in potassium and phosphorus levels between the two groups. PHA-exposed goats showed significantly decreased levels of estrogen, progesterone, luteinizing hormone, and thyroxin compared to control goats (p < 0.05). Postpartum reproductive traits, such as gestation length, postpartum heat period, abortion rate, and retained placenta, were significantly (p < 0.05) prolonged in BBG that had been exposed to PHA. Conclusion: PHA plasticizer exposure during pregnancy affects the electrolytes, hormones, and postpartum reproductive physiology of BBGs. J. Adv. Vet. Anim. Res., 11(4): 1050–1056, December 2024 http://doi.org/10.5455/javar.2024.k856

Objective: The present study looked at how electrolytes, hormones, and postpartum reproductive physiology were affected in black Bengal goats (BBGs) when they were fed a phthalate mixture (PHA). Materials and Methods: Twenty clinically healthy BBGs, 1–2 months pregnant, aged 6–8 months with a body weight of 10–12 kg, were chosen and randomly allocated to two experimental groups (n = 10 each). The BBGs of the treatment group (n = 10) were administered a standard ration containing a mixture of Diethyl Phthalate, Dibutyl Phthalate, Di-isobutyl Phthalate, and Dipropyl Phthalate. The non-treated control group (n = 10) received the goat ration without any phthalates up to parturition. Blood samples were taken from experimental pregnant goats just before parturition to analyze serum hormone and electrolyte levels. Results: The levels of sodium, chloride, and calcium were reduced (p < 0.05) in PHA-exposed goats than in the non-exposed control group. No significant difference was observed in potassium and phosphorus levels between the two groups. PHA-exposed goats showed significantly decreased levels of estrogen, progesterone, luteinizing hormone, and thyroxin compared to control goats (p < 0.05). Postpartum reproductive traits, such as gestation length, postpartum heat period, abortion rate, and retained placenta, were significantly (p < 0.05) prolonged in BBG that had been exposed to PHA. Conclusion: PHA plasticizer exposure during pregnancy affects the electrolytes, hormones, and postpartum reproductive physiology of BBGs. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2024; 11(4.000): 1051-1056]

Objective: This study aimed to examine the efficiency of newly formulated drugs based on mechanochemical modification of two widely used anthelmintic substancesin suspension formulations against the main classes of helminths and parasitic arthropods. Materials and Methods: Solid-phase co-grinding of two substances, i.e., ivermectin (IM) and niclosamide (NS), with licorice extract and sodium succinate was performed in liquid-phase processing to obtain suspension formulations. Drug preparations were administered to the sheep of the experimental groups (5 experimental groups of 8 heads) with different concentrations of active substances, i.e., 3.0, 5.0, and 10.0 mg/kg of body weight (BW) NS and 0.2-mg/kg BW IM. Aqueous suspensions of the original substances in dosages of 0.2-mg/kg BW IM, 10.0-mg/kg NS, and placebo were included as controls. Efficacy of the formulations against gastrointestinal strongyles, Trichuris spp., Moniezia spp., and nasal bot larvae (Oestrus ovis) was assessed in naturally infected sheep by the number of surviving adult parasites post-treatment in the gastrointestinal tract, nasal passages, and sinuses. Results: Formulated suspensions showed an increased solubility of 5.5–13.1 times compared to the original substances. Treatment of sheep with the SusIN-10 drug containing 0.2-mg/kg BW IM and 10.0-mg/kg NS showed 100% efficiency against gastrointestinal strongyles, Moniezia, and nasal bot larvae. Formulations containing 0.2-mg/kg BW IM and 3.0- and 0.5-mg/kg NS could eliminate all of the Trichuris worms. Administration of original substances of IM and NS with recommended dosages did not result in the adult parasites’ complete elimination. Conclusion: Modification of the anthelmintic substances through mechanochemical methods made it possible to create formulations with a targeted spectrum of action, significantly higher water solubility, and optimal parasiticidal activity. J. Adv. Vet. Anim. Res., 11(4): 1122–1129, December 2024 http://doi.org/10.5455/javar.2024.k863

Objective: This study aimed to examine the efficiency of newly formulated drugs based on mech¬anochemical modification of two widely used anthelmintic substances in suspension formulations against the main classes of helminths and parasitic arthropods. Materials and Methods: Solid-phase co-grinding of two substances, i.e., ivermectin (IM) and niclosamide (NS), with licorice extract and sodium succinate was performed in liquid-phase processing to obtain suspension formulations. Drug preparations were administered to the sheep of the experimental groups (5 experimental groups of 8 heads) with different concentrations of active substances, i.e., 3.0, 5.0, and 10.0 mg/kg of body weight (BW) NS and 0.2-mg/kg BW IM. Aqueous suspensions of the original substances in dosages of 0.2-mg/kg BW IM, 10.0-mg/kg NS, and placebo were included as controls. Efficacy of the formulations against gastrointestinal stron¬gyles, Trichuris spp., Moniezia spp., and nasal bot larvae (Oestrus ovis) was assessed in naturally infected sheep by the number of surviving adult parasites post-treatment in the gastrointestinal tract, nasal passages, and sinuses. Results: Formulated suspensions showed an increased solubility of 5.5–13.1 times compared to the original substances. Treatment of sheep with the SusIN-10 drug containing 0.2-mg/kg BW IM and 10.0-mg/kg NS showed 100% efficiency against gastrointestinal strongyles, Moniezia, and nasal bot larvae. Formulations containing 0.2-mg/kg BW IM and 3.0- and 0.5-mg/kg NS could eliminate all of the Trichuris worms. Administration of original substances of IM and NS with rec¬ommended dosages did not result in the adult parasites' complete elimination. Conclusion: Modification of the anthelmintic substances through mechanochemical methods made it possible to create formulations with a targeted spectrum of action, significantly higher water solubility, and optimal parasiticidal activity. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2024; 11(4.000): 1122-1129]

Objective: The objective of this study was to analyze the sequence of different fragments of the thyroperoxidase (TPO) gene from a cat diagnosed with congenital hypothyroidism (CH). Materials and Methods: The feline was diagnosed due to high serum concentrations of thyroid-stimulating hormone and low T4. The analysis of sequences containing mutations in the TPO gene from dogs with CH allowed for the prediction of mutation sites within the gene in an affected cat. In addition, the design of a polymerase chain reaction-based test allowed the amplification and sequencing of these gene segments. In addition, after the death of the patient, a necropsy and histopathology were performed, looking for macroscopic and microscopic alterations of affected organs. Results: The necropsy examination showed megacolon, cardiac concentric left ventricular hypertrophy, and bilateral enlargement of the thyroid gland. The histopathology of the thyroid showed follicular hypoplasia and low colloid production. gDNA analysis allowed the detection of mutation in the TPO gene, which corresponded to one transition in the nucleotide 12.542 (A > G) and heterozygous variations located in the nucleotide 14.627 (G/A) and in the nucleotide 30.713 (G/C). Conclusion: Due to the presence of these polymorphisms, it is suspected that one monoallelic expression of mutant alleles is present. More studies that allow an understanding of the role of the heterozygous in this pathology are required, as well as the role of gene mutations related to CH in cats. On the other hand, the data from the present study serve as the base for the development of a molecular test that allows a fast and accurate diagnosis of HC in cats. J. Adv. Vet. Anim. Res., 11(4): 1030–1036, December 2024 http://doi.org/10.5455/javar.2024.k854

Objective: The objective of this study was to analyze the sequence of different fragments of the thyroperoxidase (TPO) gene from a cat diagnosed with congenital hypothyroidism (CH). Materials and Methods: The feline was diagnosed due to high serum concentrations of thy¬roid-stimulating hormone and low T4. The analysis of sequences containing mutations in the TPO gene from dogs with CH allowed for the prediction of mutation sites within the gene in an affected cat. In addition, the design of a polymerase chain reaction-based test allowed the amplification and sequencing of these gene segments. In addition, after the death of the patient, a necropsy and histopathology were performed, looking for macroscopic and microscopic alterations of affected organs. Results: The necropsy examination showed megacolon, cardiac concentric left ventricular hyper¬trophy, and bilateral enlargement of the thyroid gland. The histopathology of the thyroid showed follicular hypoplasia and low colloid production. gDNA analysis allowed the detection of mutation in the TPO gene, which corresponded to one transition in the nucleotide 12.542 (A > G) and het¬erozygous variations located in the nucleotide 14.627 (G/A) and in the nucleotide 30.713 (G/C). Conclusion: Due to the presence of these polymorphisms, it is suspected that one monoallelic expression of mutant alleles is present. More studies that allow an understanding of the role of the heterozygous in this pathology are required, as well as the role of gene mutations related to CH in cats. On the other hand, the data from the present study serve as the base for the development of a molecular test that allows a fast and accurate diagnosis of HC in cats. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2024; 11(4.000): 1030-1036]

Meat inspection is the routine method used to identify cattle infected with Taenia saginata; however, the sensitivity of this method is low. We investigated the prevalence of T. saginata infection in cattle slaughtered in low throughput abattoirs (LTs) in Gauteng province, South Africa, based on meat inspection and serology. A total of 188 cattle carcasses from three abattoirs underwent meat inspection for the presence of T. saginata cysticerci, while serum was tested for the occurrence of antigens using antigen enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (Ag-ELISA). Polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-sequencing was performed to confirm T. saginata cysts identified during enhanced inspection and incision of 10 randomly selected hearts. Apparent and true prevalence were calculated, and a logistic regression model was fit to evaluate associations between abattoir, sex, animal origin, age and T. saginata serological status. Out of the 188 carcasses, no positive cases (0%) were identified during routine meat inspection, yet three cysticerci-like lesions were identified from three hearts following additional incisions, of which one was confirmed as T. saginata. Fifty-four of the sampled cattle carcasses tested positive using Ag-ELISA (apparent and true prevalence: 29.0%, 71.8%). Feedlot cattle were less likely (odds ratios [OR]: 0.33, p = 0.043) to have a positive serological test result for T. saginata compared to non-feedlot cattle, and the odds of a positive result differed between abattoirs (p  0.05).Contribution: Our results confirmed the low sensitivity of routine meat inspection in LTs, which may pose a public health risk, and therefore other diagnostic methods need to be included in the surveillance system for T. saginata.

Meat inspection is the routine method used to identify cattle infected with Taenia saginata; however, the sensitivity of this method is low. We investigated the prevalence of T. saginata infection in cattle slaughtered in low throughput abattoirs (LTs) in Gauteng province, South Africa, based on meat inspection and serology. A total of 188 cattle carcasses from three abattoirs underwent meat inspection for the presence of T. saginata cysticerci, while serum was tested for the occurrence of antigens using antigen enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (Ag-ELISA). Polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-sequencing was performed to confirm T. saginata cysts identified during enhanced inspection and incision of 10 randomly selected hearts. Apparent and true prevalence were calculated, and a logistic regression model was fit to evaluate associations between abattoir, sex, animal origin, age and T. saginata serological status. Out of the 188 carcasses, no positive cases (0%) were identified during routine meat inspection, yet three cysticerci-like lesions were identified from three hearts following additional incisions, of which one was confirmed as T. saginata. Fifty-four of the sampled cattle carcasses tested positive using Ag-ELISA (apparent and true prevalence: 29.0%, 71.8%). Feedlot cattle were less likely (odds ratios [OR]: 0.33, p = 0.043) to have a positive serological test result for T. saginata compared to non-feedlot cattle, and the odds of a positive result differed between abattoirs (p  0.05). Contribution: Our results confirmed the low sensitivity of routine meat inspection in LTs, which may pose a public health risk, and therefore other diagnostic methods need to be included in the surveillance system for T. saginata.

Natural treatment options for Microsporum canis dermatophytosis are being explored because of resistance to several antifungal medications. In this study, the potential antifungal effect of bee venom (BV), a natural antimicrobial agent, on M. canis was investigated. The antifungal effects of BV, fluconazole, itraconazole, amphotericin B and terbinafine were evaluated by the macrodilution method at various concentrations by modifying the microdilution method recommended by the European Committee on Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing. All isolates were observed to be susceptible to terbinafine and fully resistant to fluconazole and amphotericin B. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) values of M. canis isolate 2 (Mc2) were determined as 8 µg/mL for itraconazole. The MIC and MFC values of BV were found to be 320 µg/mL for the Mc2 isolate and 640 µg/mL for the Mc6 isolate. The results showed that the isolates obtained from clinical samples in this study were highly resistant to all antifungal agents, except terbinafine. The increase in resistance indicates that antifungal drugs will become insufficient and ineffective over time and natural products such as BV should be evaluated as alternatives.Contribution: Although there are many drugs for the treatment of M. canis, the increase in resistance to antifungal agents reveals the need for the identification and development of new natural agents. Bee venom, which has been shown to have a safe and weak allergenic effect in various studies, can be tested for usability as a local antifungal drug when supported by in vivo studies.

Natural treatment options for Microsporum canis dermatophytosis are being explored because of resistance to several antifungal medications. In this study, the potential antifungal effect of bee venom (BV), a natural antimicrobial agent, on M. canis was investigated. The antifungal effects of BV, fluconazole, itraconazole, amphotericin B and terbinafine were evaluated by the macrodilution method at various concentrations by modifying the microdilution method recommended by the European Committee on Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing. All isolates were observed to be susceptible to terbinafine and fully resistant to fluconazole and amphotericin B. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) values of M. canis isolate 2 (Mc2) were determined as 8 µg/mL for itraconazole. The MIC and MFC values of BV were found to be 320 µg/mL for the Mc2 isolate and 640 µg/mL for the Mc6 isolate. The results showed that the isolates obtained from clinical samples in this study were highly resistant to all antifungal agents, except terbinafine. The increase in resistance indicates that antifungal drugs will become insufficient and ineffective over time and natural products such as BV should be evaluated as alternatives. Contribution: Although there are many drugs for the treatment of M. canis, the increase in resistance to antifungal agents reveals the need for the identification and development of new natural agents. Bee venom, which has been shown to have a safe and weak allergenic effect in various studies, can be tested for usability as a local antifungal drug when supported by in vivo studies.