Objective: The study aimed to assess the feasibility of incorporating food-grade zinc sulfate (ZnSO4) for making zinc-fortified meatballs from broiler meat. Materials and Methods: A total of 20 broiler breasts were treated with different concentrations of elemental zinc (Zn) of food-grade ZnSO₄ for making meatballs. The study included a control group without added Zn (T0: 0 mg/kg) and treatment groups with Zn concentrations of 10 mg/kg (T1), 20 mg/kg (T2), 30 mg/kg (T3), and 40 mg/kg (T4). Post-cooking, the meatball samples underwent preservation at −20°C for proximate composition, quality parameters, storage quality, texture, and sensory analysis. Results: Though the moisture content of meatballs did not differ significantly (p > 0.05), the T4 meatballs showed higher moisture percentages and significantly (p < 0.01) higher crude protein content compared to the control. However, a significant increase in cook yield (p < 0.01) and water-holding capacity (p < 0.05) were revealed by the T4 group. The T4 meatball recovered around 41.8% Zn. The malondialdehyde levels in all samples were acceptable when kept in the chiller for ten days. Moreover, the addition of varying doses of ZnSO4 did not result in a significant alteration (p > 0.05) in the hardness of the meatballs. The sensory panelists also validated the instrumental outcome of hardness. Conclusion: The addition of 40 mg/kg of elemental Zn from ZnSO4 improves nutritional composition and quality with no alteration of the texture and sensory properties of the meatball. This dose could be an effective strategy for fortifying chicken meat products and could offer a valuable source of dietary Zn for human consumption. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2024; 11(4.000): 1130-1138]

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the intron 2 region of the leptin (LEP) gene and the 5' untranslated region of the thyroglobulin (TG5) gene across four crossbred beef cattle populations, including Blanc Bleu Belge × Lai Brahman (BLB), Charolais × Lai Brahman (CLB), Droughtmaster × Lai Brahman (DLB), and Red Angus × Lai Brahman (RLB) raised in Central Vietnam. Materials and Methods: A total of 200 tail hair root samples (50 per group) were collected, and genomic DNA was extracted. The PCR-RFLP method was utilized to analyze the LEP and TG5 gene polymorphisms using the restriction enzymes Sau3AI and PsuI, respectively. Results: The SNPs of LEP/Sau3AI and TG5/PsuI were present in all populations, with a lower frequency of the LEPB allele compared to LEPA. The LEPAA genotype was most common, followed by LEPAB and LEPBB; notably, the LEPBB genotype was absent in the CLB group. The Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium was observed for LEP/Sau3AI in the CLB and BLB populations. Conversely, the TG5CT genotype dominated all groups, with no individuals exhibiting the TG5TT genotype. None of the populations achieved Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium for TG5/PsuI. The level of polymorphism was moderate for LEP/Sau3AI in RLB and BLB and for TG5/PsuI across all groups. Conclusion: The SNPs of LEP/Sau3AI and TG5/PsuI may serve as valuable tools for genomic selection. By focusing on increasing the frequency of the TG5T allele, breeding programs can more effectively enhance beef marbling and other important traits, leading to improved beef quality and greater economic outcomes in the cattle industry. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2024; 11(4.000): 989-995]

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]

Objective: To investigate the effect of quail egg supplements enriched with marine macroalgae Eucheuma spinosum on body weight and physiological conditions of Sprague Dawley rats during pregnancy. Materials and Methods: This study used a completely randomized experimental design. The test animals were 25 pregnant white rats aged 3 months and weighed ± 200 gm. Pregnant rats were divided into five treatments and five repetitions; each repetition contained one pregnant rat. T0: control treatment; T1: treatment group consuming quail eggs from quail fed commercial feed; T2: treatment group consuming quail eggs from quail fed with 3% E. spinosum; T3: treatment group consuming quail eggs from quail fed with 4% E. spinosum; T4: treatment group consuming quail eggs from quail fed with 5% E. spinosum. The parameters measured were egg proximate, egg iron, egg cholesterol, red blood cell (RBC), hemoglobin (Hb), hematocrit (HCT), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular Hb (MCH), mean corpuscular Hb concentration (MCHC), white blood cell (WBC), lymphocytes (LYM), neutrophils (NEUT), RBC distribution width (RDW), platelet distribution width (PDW), mean platelet volume (MPV), cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), glucose, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and malondialdehyde (MDA). Results: The addition of E. spinosum into quail feed at concentrations of 3%, 4%, and 5% did not show statistically significant differences (p > 0.05) in the proximate levels (water, ash, fat, protein, and carbohydrates) compared to the control. However, the analysis of iron in quail eggs indicated a significant increase (p < 0.05) in comparison to the control treatment. In addition, the supplementation of E. spinosum in the quail feed resulted in significantly reduced (p < 0.05) quail egg cholesterol levels when compared to the control treatment. Furthermore, the supplementation of quail egg produced by quail fed with E. spinosum did not significantly affect the birth weight of the pups, RBC, MCV, MCH, MCHC, WBC, LYM, NEUT, RDW, PDW, MPV, MDA, and SOD when compared to the control treatment (p > 0.05). Meanwhile, the mother weight, Hb, HCT, cholesterol, HDL, LDL, and glucose levels significantly increased (p < 0.05) compared to the control. Conclusion: The administration of E. spinosum with concentrations of 3%, 4%, and 5% can increase iron levels and decrease cholesterol levels in quail eggs. The administration of quail egg supplements produced by quail-fed additional macroalgae E. spinosum can increase body weight, Hb, and HCT in pregnant rats. The addition of marine macroalgae with concentrations of 4% and 5% can decrease the levels of cholesterol, LDL, and glucose and increase serum HDL levels in pregnant rats. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2024; 11(4.000): 1114-1121]

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: Many studies focused on clinical cases such as ovariohysterectomy of bitches and scarcely mentioned the histological features. The present study describes the cytoarchitecture characteristics of a local dog's mature adult reproductive tract. Materials and Methods: Sixteen samples of uterus and cervix were obtained from local breed bitches to conduct this study. The organs were processed according to routine histopathological protocol and stained with hematoxylin and eosin, Masson's trichrome, and combined Alcian blue (2.5 pH) and PAS (AB-PAS) stains. Results: The mature endometrium formed numerous short epithelial folds and epithelial crypts composed of mucous cells and cuboidal cells. The core of the endometrium is composed of fibrous tissue containing fibroblasts with discernible active uterine glands. The myometrium is constructed by thick, circularly, and longitudinally oriented layers of smooth muscle fibers. The AB-PAS stain of the uterine glands revealed light-neutral glycoprotein. The cervix had a very thick wall and displayed numerous huge mucosal folds, covered by ciliated and non-ciliated pseudo-stratified epithelium. The tissue core of the cervix was very thick, and composed of highly cellular, highly vascular, and non-glandular fibrous connective tissue. Layers forming the muscularis of the cervix are composed of circularly, obliquely, and longitudinally oriented smooth muscle bundles. The cervical epithelial cells revealed a light film of neutral glycoprotein that covered the epithelial surface, and the goblet cells denoted strong acidic mucopolysaccharide. Conclusions: The current study concluded that the most mature nonpregnant local breed dogs during the proestrus and estrus phases had an active endometrial architecture that is suitable for the management of reproduction. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2024; 11(4.000): 835-845]

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 research aimed to evaluate in vitro ruminal fermentation, methane (CH4) emissions, and the relationship between the nutritional content and CH4 emissions of tropical feedstuffs to formulate low CH4-emitting feeds for ruminants. Materials and Methods: Eighteen feedstuffs, including roughages (3 crop residues, 2 silages, 3 common grasses, and 4 leguminous fodder) and 6 concentrates, were evaluated using the Hohenheim Gas Test. Approximately 200 mg of feed were incubated with a rumen fluid-buffer solution for 72 h to test gas production (GP) and 120 mg for 24 h to determine the CH4 con-centration in the gas. Digestibility of organic matter (dOM) and metabolizable energy (ME) were calculated using GP data. Results: Leguminous fodder contained the highest crude protein (CP) concentration (166–314 gm/kg dry matter (DM)), followed by common grasses (52–147 gm/kg DM) and silages (94–106 gm/kg DM), but the lowest concentration of detergent fiber fractions. Crushed wheat and maize had higher dOM and ME (87.8% and 90.9%, and 14.4 MJ/kg DM and 13.8 MJ/kg DM, respectively), and their CH4 concentration (% of GP) and CH4 emissions (L CH4/kg dOM) followed a similar trend as the other feedstuffs. The dOM and ME of German grass and Ipil-ipil were higher, whereas the CH4 concentration and CH4 emissions were lower compared to crop residues and other common grasses. The CH4 emissions originating from the feedstuffs were positively correlated with the concentration of neutral detergent fiber and GP and negatively correlated with CP. Conclusion: Our result provides an opportunity to select feed ingredients with higher digestibility and concurrently less CH4 emissions in formulating diets for ruminants when using commonly available feed resources in many tropical countries. This may enhance animal productive performances while reducing the impact of animal production on the environment. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2024; 11(4.000): 924-935]

Objective: This study evaluated the immunogenicity and protective efficacy of an inactivated oil adjuvant B. abortus vaccine in BALB/c mice. Materials and Methods: Mice in group A (n = 30) received subcutaneous (s.c.) immunization with 0.1 ml of vaccine (1.5 × 107 inactivated B. abortus biovar 3 per mouse) and were boosted 4 weeks later. Group B (n = 30) received normal saline as unvaccinated controls. BALB/c, vaccinated and unvaccinated mice were challenged with B. abortus biovar 3 (3 × 107 cells per mouse) at 6 weeks post-vaccination (WPV). Serum antibody levels were assessed at 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 WPV using RBPT and i-ELISA. Cellular-mediated immune (CMI) response was evaluated by measuring the skin thickness of vaccinated mice's left and right hind footpads sensitized with B. abortus soluble antigen and PBS, respectively. Bacterial persistence and spleen histopathological lesions were evaluated at 1, 2, and 3 weeks post-challenge. Results: The vaccinated mice developed B. abortus-specific serum IgG response from 2 WPV. The highest serum IgG titer was observed in 5-6 WPV (p < 0.001). The skin thickness was significantly higher in the left footpad than the right footpad (p < 0.001). Huge cellular infiltration with mononuclear and polynuclear cells was noticed in the dermis and sub-dermis areas of the left footpad. The spleen weight and bacterial load in the spleen were significantly reduced in vaccinated mice compared to unvaccinated control mice (p < 0.001). Conclusions: The inactivated oil adjuvant B. abortus vaccine induced both humoral and CMI responses, which conferred protection in BALB/c mice against virulent challenge infections. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2024; 11(4.000): 914-923]

Objective: The efficiency of corona discharge (CD) for detoxification of aflatoxin B1 (AB1), ochra¬toxin A (OA), and fumonisin B1 (FMB1) from poultry feeds with its influences on feed components was investigated. Materials and Methods: Feed samples were exposed to CD for six durations (10, 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60 min) at three distances (1.5, 2.5, and 3.5 cm). Mycotoxin levels were estimated by compet¬itive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and findings were substantiated by high-performance liquid chromatography. Results: AB1, OA, and FMB1 degradation percentages increased significantly (p < 0.05) with pro¬cessing times increment and distances reduction to reach values of 83.22%, 84.21%, and 84.76% at the first distance; 80.28%, 84.00%, and 84.12% at the second distance; and 68.30%, 71.74%, and 76.18% at the third distance, respectively, after 60 min of treatment. FMB1 reported the highest degradation level. Concerning CD impacts on feed composition, protein, fat, and moisture contents decreased significantly (p < 0.05). Carbohydrates and ash were not affected adversely. Depending on peroxide values estimation, fats were of good quality. Conclusion: The CD effectiveness for AB1, OA, and FMB1 detox from poultry feeds with moderate impact on the quality of feed. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2024; 11(4.000): 819-834]