Objective: This study investigates the effects of dietary nano-zinc (ZnNPs), probiotics (P), and their combined use such as growth promoters, antibacterial agents, and organic antioxidants on the growth performance, carcass characteristics, blood biochemistry, meat quality, and cecal micro¬biota of broiler chicks. Materials and Methods: The trial was conducted from 7 to 35 days of age using a randomized complete trial design with 240 unsexed Ross 308 chicks (initial body weight 104.37 ± 0.16 gm). The chicks were allocated into four treatment groups, each containing 60 chicks, with six repli-cates (4×6×10). The treatments were as follows: a control group fed a standard diet and three experimental groups receiving diets supplemented with ZnNPs (3.0 cm³/kg), probiotics (P, 2.0 cm³/ kg), or a combination of ZnNPs + P (3.0 + 2.0 cm³/kg). Results: The study revealed that ZnNPs and probiotics exhibited significant antibacterial activ-ity against harmful bacteria and mold, effectively suppressing microbial growth at concentra-tions ranging from 50 to 95 μg/ml. The inclusion of ZnNPs and probiotics in the diets resulted in improved growth performance, with a higher body weight compared to the control group (p < 0.05). All carcass characteristics were positively influenced by the treatments, showing significant improvements compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the levels of malondial¬dehyde (MDA) were significantly reduced in the ZnNPs and probiotics-treated groups, suggesting enhanced antioxidant activity (p < 0.05). Blood biochemical indicators, including immunoglobulin concentrations, were higher in the treated groups, pointing to an improved immune response. The meat quality of the broilers also significantly improved in terms of texture, juiciness, and tenderness. Additionally, the number of harmful cecal microorganisms decreased in the supple¬mented groups, leading to a healthier gut microbiota and overall improved animal health. Conclusion: The study shows that dietary supplementation with ZnNPs and probiotics has a posi¬tive impact on broiler growth, carcass traits, meat quality, blood parameters, and microbial status. These results suggest that incorporating ZnNPs and probiotics into broiler diets can be an effective strategy for enhancing productivity, meat quality, and overall health status, ultimately improving the sustainability of poultry production systems. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2025; 12(1.000): 19-32]

Objective: This study investigates the effects of dietary nano-zinc (ZnNPs), probiotics(P), and their combined use such as growth promoters, antibacterial agents, and organic antioxidants on the growth performance, carcass characteristics, blood biochemistry, meat quality, and cecal microbiota of broiler chicks. Materials and Methods: The trial was conducted from 7 to 35 days of age using a randomized complete trial design with 240 unsexed Ross 308 chicks (initial body weight 104.37 ± 0.16 gm). The chicks were allocated into four treatment groups, each containing 60 chicks, with six replicates (4×6×10). The treatments were as follows: a control group fed a standard diet and three experimental groups receiving diets supplemented with ZnNPs(3.0 cm³/kg), probiotics (P, 2.0 cm³/ kg), or a combination of ZnNPs + P (3.0 + 2.0 cm³/kg). Results: The study revealed that ZnNPs and probiotics exhibited significant antibacterial activity against harmful bacteria and mold, effectively suppressing microbial growth at concentrations ranging from 50 to 95 µg/ml. The inclusion of ZnNPs and probiotics in the diets resulted in improved growth performance, with a higher body weight compared to the control group (p < 0.05). All carcass characteristics were positively influenced by the treatments, showing significant improvements compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) were significantly reduced in the ZnNPs and probiotics-treated groups, suggesting enhanced antioxidant activity (p < 0.05). Blood biochemical indicators, including immunoglobulin concentrations, were higher in the treated groups, pointing to an improved immune response. The meat quality of the broilers also significantly improved in terms of texture, juiciness, and tenderness. Additionally, the number of harmful cecal microorganisms decreased in the supplemented groups, leading to a healthier gut microbiota and overall improved animal health. Conclusion: The study shows that dietary supplementation with ZnNPs and probiotics has a positive impact on broiler growth, carcass traits, meat quality, blood parameters, and microbial status. These results suggest that incorporating ZnNPs and probiotics into broiler diets can be an effective strategy for enhancing productivity, meat quality, and overall health status, ultimately improving the sustainability of poultry production systems. J. Adv. Vet. Anim. Res., 12(1): 19–32, March 2025 http://doi.org/10.5455/javar.2025.l868

Objective: This research aimed to isolate and identify potential white-rot fungi from various locations in West Sumatra, Indonesia, that could be used for biodelignification of animal feed ingredients. Materials and Methods: Wood samples with fungal infections were directly observed, and the visual method was employed to collect samples. The purified white-rot fungi isolates underwent the Bavendamm test to evaluate their biodelignification capabilities. Results: Eight of the 15 purified white-rot fungi isolates demonstrated positive results in the Bavendamm test, indicating their potential for biodelignification. Further analysis revealed the presence of three indigenous white-rot fungi species in West Sumatra: Exidia sp., Trametes sp., and Phanerochaete sp. These findings highlight the richness of white-rot fungi biodiversity in the region and underscore their suitability for lignin degradation in animal feed ingredients. Additionally, the successful isolation and identification of these fungi represent a crucial step toward sustainable biotechnological applications in livestock farming. Conclusion: The identified white-rot fungi have shown promising capabilities for lignin degradation in animal feed ingredients. However, further research is essential to ascertain the optimal enzyme ratio for lignin degradation and to enhance the identification techniques for a broader range of white-rot fungi species. This study provides a foundational step toward improving animal feed quality in the region, especially for ruminants. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2025; 12(2.000): 558-564]

Objective: This research aimed to isolate and identify potential white-rot fungi from various locations in West Sumatra, Indonesia, that could be used for biodelignification of animal feed ingredients. Materials and Methods: Wood samples with fungal infections were directly observed, and the visual method was employed to collect samples. The purified white-rot fungi isolates underwent the Bavendamm test to evaluate their biodelignification capabilities. Results: Eight of the 15 purified white-rot fungi isolates demonstrated positive results in the Bavendamm test, indicating their potential for biodelignification. Further analysis revealed the presence of three indigenous white-rot fungi species in West Sumatra: Exidia sp., Trametes sp., and Phanerochaete sp. These findings highlight the richness of white-rot fungi biodiversity in the region and underscore their suitability for lignin degradation in animal feed ingredients. Additionally, the successful isolation and identification of these fungi represent a crucial step toward sustainable biotechnological applications in livestock farming. Conclusion: The identified white-rot fungi have shown promising capabilities for lignin degradation in animal feed ingredients. However, further research is essential to ascertain the optimal enzyme ratio for lignin degradation and to enhance the identification techniques for a broader range of white-rot fungi species. This study provides a foundational step toward improving animal feed quality in the region, especially for ruminants. J. Adv. Vet. Anim. Res., 12(2): 558–564, June 2025 http://doi.org/10.5455/javar.2025.l920

Objectives: Kopi luwak (civet coffee) is produced through a fermentation process in the digestive system of civets. This study aims to investigate the diversity of microorganisms in Indonesian civet excreta fed with robusta coffee cherries. Materials and Methods: Six excreta samples were collected from male and female Indonesian civets of three species: binturong (Arctictis binturong), Asian palm civet (Paradoxurus hermaphroditus), and masked palm civet (Paguma larvata). Microbial diversity was analyzed using next-generation sequencing. Results: Based on alpha and beta diversity analysis, the microbial community in civet excreta differs. Microbes found in the excreta of male P. hermaphroditus (PH-M) were the most diverse. Microbes were identified in the bacterial and yeast domains. The relative abundance of bacteria was higher than yeast. The occurrence of non-pathogenic bacteria (50.76%–90.51%) was higher than pathogens (9.49%–41.24%). The dominant bacteria in the excreta of all civets were Escherichia coli (15.98%–54.68%). Although not dominant microorganisms, lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and yeast are present in civet excreta. The LAB present in the range from 0.16% to 32.14%, with the most abundant LAB being Streptococcus pasteurianus, Weissella confusa, and W. cibaria. Meanwhile, the identified yeasts were Hanseniaspora opuntiae and H. uvarum. Pathogenic bacteria, both spore-forming and non-spore-forming, were also present in civet excreta. The virulence factors and antimicrobial resistance gene cluster were detected. Conclusion: The microbial diversity of Indonesian civet excreta is influenced by species and sex. PH-M contains the most diverse microbes. The presence of foodborne pathogens in civet excreta may be carried over into the beans, and hence, further processing of the beans should assure the safety of the beans. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2025; 12(2.000): 565-581]

Objectives: Kopi luwak (civet coffee) is produced through a fermentation process in the digestive system of civets. This study aims to investigate the diversity of microorganisms in Indonesian civet excreta fed with robusta coffee cherries. Materials and Methods: Six excreta samples were collected from male and female Indonesian civets of three species: binturong (Arctictis binturong), Asian palm civet (Paradoxurus hermaphroditus), and masked palm civet (Paguma larvata). Microbial diversity was analyzed using next-generation sequencing. Results: Based on alpha and beta diversity analysis, the microbial community in civet excreta differs. Microbes found in the excreta of male P. hermaphroditus (PH-M) were the most diverse. Microbes were identified in the bacterial and yeast domains. The relative abundance of bacteria was higher than yeast. The occurrence of non-pathogenic bacteria (50.76%–90.51%) was higher than pathogens (9.49%–41.24%). The dominant bacteria in the excreta of all civets were Escherichia coli (15.98%–54.68%). Although not dominant microorganisms, lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and yeast are present in civet excreta. The LAB present in the range from 0.16% to 32.14%, with the most abundant LAB being Streptococcus pasteurianus, Weissella confusa, and W. cibaria. Meanwhile, the identified yeasts were Hanseniaspora opuntiae and H. uvarum. Pathogenic bacteria, both spore-forming and non-spore-forming, were also present in civet excreta. The virulence factors and antimicrobial resistance gene cluster were detected. Conclusion: The microbial diversity of Indonesian civet excreta is influenced by species and sex. PH-M contains the most diverse microbes. The presence of foodborne pathogens in civet excreta may be carried over into the beans, and hence, further processing of the beans should assure the safety of the beans. J. Adv. Vet. Anim. Res., 12(2): 565–581, June 2025 http://doi.org/10.5455/javar.2025.l921

Objective: Our study is conducted to identify serotypes, antibiotic resistance, heavy metal resistance, and virulent genes in Escherichia coli isolated from goats raised in small-scale farms in some provinces of the Mekong Delta, Vietnam. Material and Methods: A total of 203 E. coli isolates from goat feces were examined by PCR for serotypes (O8, O9, O25, O26, O45, O103, O146, O157, and O159), eight antibiotic-resistance genes, four heavy-metal-resistance genes, and four pathogenic genes. Results: By PCR, 20.20% of E. coli isolates belonging to serotypes O8 (6.40%), O45 (13.30%), and O159 (0.49%) were identified. Antibiotic-resistance genes were recorded at high rates in E. coli isolates, especially genes blaampC (98.52%), tetA (50.74%), sulII (34.48%), qnrA (20.69%), and aadA1 (20.69%). Moreover, 55.67% of these E. coli isolates harbored multiple antibiotic-resistance genes. Among heavy-metal-resistance genes, the gene czcD encoding for resistance to cobalt, zinc, and cadmium was the most prevalent (59.11%). In addition, the most frequent virulent gene was stx1 (15.27%), followed by gene stx2 (6.90%), eae, and hlyA (1.48%). Conclusion: These results revealed that goats were a natural reservoir of pathogenic E. coli serotypes, which could cause severe diseases in animals and humans. Moreover, these E. coli isolates showed a high ability to resist diverse antibiotics. Thus, managing the prevalence of pathogenic E. coli is essential for protecting public health in the Mekong Delta. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2025; 12(2.000): 420-426]

Objective: Our study is conducted to identify serotypes, antibiotic resistance, heavy metal resistance, and virulent genes in Escherichia coli isolated from goats raised in small-scale farms in some provinces of the Mekong Delta, Vietnam. Material and Methods: A total of 203 E. coli isolates from goat feces were examined by PCR for serotypes (O8, O9, O25, O26, O45, O103, O146, O157, and O159), eight antibiotic-resistance genes, four heavy-metal-resistance genes, and four pathogenic genes. Results: By PCR, 20.20% of E. coli isolates belonging to serotypes O8 (6.40%), O45 (13.30%), and O159 (0.49%) were identified. Antibiotic-resistance genes were recorded at high rates in E. coli isolates, especially genes blaampC (98.52%), tetA (50.74%), sulII (34.48%), qnrA (20.69%), and aadA1 (20.69%). Moreover, 55.67% of these E. coli isolates harbored multiple antibiotic-resistance genes. Among heavy-metal-resistance genes, the gene czcD encoding for resistance to cobalt, zinc, and cadmium was the most prevalent (59.11%). In addition, the most frequent virulent gene was stx1 (15.27%), followed by gene stx2 (6.90%), eae, and hlyA (1.48%). Conclusion: These results revealed that goats were a natural reservoir of pathogenic E. coli serotypes, which could cause severe diseases in animals and humans. Moreover, these E. coli isolates showed a high ability to resist diverse antibiotics. Thus, managing the prevalence of pathogenic E. coli is essential for protecting public health in the Mekong Delta. J. Adv. Vet. Anim. Res., 12(2): 420–426, June 2025 http://doi.org/10.5455/javar.2025.l908

Objectives: The current study sought to ascertain the mRNA expression and establish the complementary DNA (cDNA) sequences of pigeon brain's glutamate receptor 2B of N-methyl-D-aspartate (GluN2B) type. Material and Methods: Adult pigeons (Columba livia; n = 8, sharing an equal number of males and females) were used. After proper anesthesia, the brain was exposed, and small pieces of cerebellum, optic tectum, thalamus, and telencephalon were collected quickly; total ribonucleic acid (RNA) was isolated, and cDNA was synthesized for PCR amplification. The ABI Prism 3100 Genetic Analyzer was used to analyze the sequences of the corresponding cDNA fragments. Results: In RT-PCR, the findings unequivocally demonstrated that the pigeon brain's cerebellum, optic tectum, thalamus, and telencephalon all expressed the mRNA for GluN2B. The cDNA sequence of pigeon GluN2B was obtained from PCR-amplified products and included 51 base pairs (bp) of the 5' untranslated region (UTR), a 4,512-bp open reading frame, and 13 bps of the 3' UTR. Pigeon GluN2B's cDNA sequencing displayed 85% identity for human GluN2B and 95% identity for chicken. The amino acid sequences encoded by the pigeon GluN2B gene shared between 85% and 97% similarity with those of humans, rats, and mice. Molecular phylogenetic analysis using the neighbor-joining method showed that pigeon GluN2B is closely related to the GluN2B proteins of these other species. Conclusion: The findings suggest that certain neurons in the pigeon brain produce GluN2B mRNA. They also indicate the presence of various glutamatergic networks and connections within the avian brain. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2025; 12(2.000): 427-432]

Objectives: The current study sought to ascertain the mRNA expression and establish the complementary DNA (cDNA) sequences of pigeon brain’s glutamate receptor 2B of N-methyl-D-aspartate (GluN2B) type. Material and Methods: Adult pigeons (Columba livia; n = 8, sharing an equal number of males and females) were used. After proper anesthesia, the brain was exposed, and small pieces of cerebellum, optic tectum, thalamus, and telencephalon were collected quickly; total ribonucleic acid (RNA) was isolated, and cDNA was synthesized for PCR amplification. The ABI Prism 3100 Genetic Analyzer was used to analyze the sequences of the corresponding cDNA fragments. Results: In RT-PCR, the findings unequivocally demonstrated that the pigeon brain’s cerebellum, optic tectum, thalamus, and telencephalon all expressed the mRNA for GluN2B. The cDNA sequence of pigeon GluN2B was obtained from PCR-amplified products and included 51 base pairs(bp) of the 5’ untranslated region (UTR), a 4,512-bp open reading frame, and 13 bps of the 3’ UTR. Pigeon GluN2B’s cDNA sequencing displayed 85% identity for human GluN2B and 95% identity for chicken. The amino acid sequences encoded by the pigeon GluN2B gene shared between 85% and 97% similarity with those of humans, rats, and mice. Molecular phylogenetic analysis using the neighbor-joining method showed that pigeon GluN2B is closely related to the GluN2B proteins of these other species. Conclusion: The findings suggest that certain neurons in the pigeon brain GluN2B mRNA. They also indicate the presence of various glutamatergic networks and connections within the avian brain. J. Adv. Vet. Anim. Res., 12(2): 427–432, June 2025 http://doi.org/10.5455/javar.2025.l909

Objective: The aim of this study was to estimate genetic parameters, breeding value, and ranking of Holstein Friesian × Local (HF × L) crossbred sires based on multi-trait selection index information. Methods: A total of 51 HF × L crossbred breeding bulls of three different genetic groups (50%HF × 50%L, 62.5%HF × 37.5%L, and 75%HF × 25%L) managed at Central Cattle Breeding and Dairy Farm (CCBDF) were evaluated based on 4,319 half-sib progeny performance data. The descriptive statistical analysis was performed using the R package. Genetic parameters were estimated using BLUPF90 by a single-trait animal model. A selection index was constructed using adjusted breeding values multiplied by variable economic weightage for each trait. Results: Genotype had significant effects on the investigated semen quality attributes (p < 0.05), where 75%HF × 25%L and 62.5%HF × 37.5%L crossbred genotypes both differed significantly from 50%HF × 50%L crossbreds (p < 0.05). In general, better productive and reproductive performances were found with the progression of HF inheritance. Daughters of 75%HF × 25%L crossbred bulls showed the highest average performance in birth weight (27.20 ± 0.09 kg), daily milk yield (8.55 ± 0.06 l), peak milk yield (10.44 ± 0.07 l), and lactation length (233.53 ± 0.85 days). The study investigated variance components of eight productive and reproductive traits such as the birth weight of calf, age at first conception, service per conception, daily milk yield, peak milk yield, lactation length, and calving interval where estimated heritability ranged from 0.09 to 0.32. Genetic correlations among the considered traits were found to be mostly weak. Among the top 20%, breeding bulls belonged to 75%HF × 25%L and 62.5%HF × 37.5%L crossbred groups. Conclusion: This study provides insightful information on the genetic evaluation of different graded bulls that could be the basis for the proven crossbred breeding bulls' selection process at CCBDF. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2025; 12(2.000): 334-343]

Objective: The aim of this study was to estimate genetic parameters, breeding value, and ranking of Holstein Friesian × Local (HF × L) crossbred sires based on multi-trait selection index information. Methods: A total of 51 HF × L crossbred breeding bulls of three different genetic groups (50%HF × 50%L, 62.5%HF × 37.5%L, and 75%HF × 25%L) managed at Central Cattle Breeding and Dairy Farm (CCBDF) were evaluated based on 4,319 half-sib progeny performance data. The descriptive statistical analysis was performed using the R package. Genetic parameters were estimated using BLUPF90 by a single-trait animal model. A selection index was constructed using adjusted breeding values multiplied by variable economic weightage for each trait. Results: Genotype had significant effects on the investigated semen quality attributes (p < 0.05), where 75%HF × 25%L and 62.5%HF × 37.5%L crossbred genotypes both differed significantly from 50%HF × 50%L crossbreds (p < 0.05). In general, better productive and reproductive performances were found with the progression of HF inheritance. Daughters of 75%HF × 25%L crossbred bulls showed the highest average performance in birth weight (27.20 ± 0.09 kg), daily milk yield (8.55 ± 0.06 l), peak milk yield (10.44 ± 0.07 l), and lactation length (233.53 ± 0.85 days). The study investigated variance components of eight productive and reproductive traits such as the birth weight of calf, age at first conception, service per conception, daily milk yield, peak milk yield, lactation length, and calving interval where estimated heritability ranged from 0.09 to 0.32. Genetic correlations among the considered traits were found to be mostly weak. Among the top 20%, breeding bulls belonged to 75%HF × 25%L and 62.5%HF × 37.5%L crossbred groups. Conclusion: This study provides insightful information on the genetic evaluation of different graded bulls that could be the basis for the proven crossbred breeding bulls’ selection process at CCBDF.  J. Adv. Vet. Anim. Res., 12(2): 334–343, June 2025 http://doi.org/10.5455/javar.2025.l901

Objective: This work is to elucidate the prevalence of Peste des Petits (PPR) in Northern Sudan through antibody, antigen, and genome detection. Materials and Methods: Serum and tissue samples from lungs showing pneumonic lesions of goats and sheep were collected in slaughterhouses in both states in Northern Sudan. Sera were examined for antibodies to the PPR virus by competitive ELISA; Immunocapture ELISA was used for testing PPRV antigen in lung tissues. Some of the ELISA-positive tissues were examined for the PPRV genome by reverse transcription PCR (RT/PCR). Results: The overall seroprevalence was 35%, with 40.8% in sheep and 28.4% in goats out of 945 sera that were tested. In the River Nile State, the prevalence was 30.1% (34.4% in sheep, and 24.6% in goats). In Northern State, it was 41.8% (50.5% in sheep, 33% in goats). Using IcELISA, the overall PPRV antigen detected in these two states of Northern Sudan was 7.7%; in River Nile State, it was 5% in sheep. In Northern State, 15.4% of sheep and 20% of goat lung tissue samples tested positive. PPR genome could be detected by RT/PCR. Conclusion: The results pointed to the increased prevalence of the disease in Northern Sudan, especially the Northern State. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2025; 12(2.000): 327-333]

Objective: This work is to elucidate the prevalence of Peste des Petits (PPR) in Northern Sudan through antibody, antigen, and genome detection. Materials and Methods: Serum and tissue samples from lungs showing pneumonic lesions of goats and sheep were collected in slaughterhouses in both states in Northern Sudan. Sera were examined for antibodies to the PPR virus by Competitive ELISA; Immunocapture ELISA was used for testing PPRV antigen in lung tissues. Some of the ELISA-positive tissues were examined for the PPRV genome by reverse transcription PCR (RT/PCR). Results: The overall seroprevalence was 35%, with 40.8% in sheep and 28.4% in goats out of 945 sera that were tested. In the River Nile State, the prevalence was 30.1% (34.4% in sheep, and 24.6% in goats). In Northern State, it was 41.8% (50.5% in sheep, 33% in goats). Using IcELISA, the overall PPRV antigen detected in these two states of Northern Sudan was 7.7%; in River Nile State, it was 5% in sheep. In Northern State, 15.4% of sheep and 20% of goat lung tissue samples tested positive. PPR genome could be detected by RT/PCR. Conclusion: The results pointed to the increased prevalence of the disease in Northern Sudan, especially the Northern State. J. Adv. Vet. Anim. Res., 12(2): 327–333, June 2025 http://doi.org/10.5455/javar.2025.l900