Objective: To examine the effects of the salinity level of drinking water on the egg production and quality of Alabio ducks. Materials and Methods: A total of 60 female Alabio ducks, aged 6 months, were subjected to this study. All ducks were kept in stage-type cages (1 m length × 1 m width × 0.5 m height), where each cage was inhabited by 4 ducks for 56 days of experimentation. All ducks were offered a mixed ration ad libitum for laying ducks, according to the nutritional requirements for egg-type ducks. The treatment in this study was drinking water with five stratified salinity levels, namely P0 = freshwater (0% salinity); P1 = water with a salinity of 0.75 practical salinity unit (PSU) (equal to 0.75 g NaCl/l); P2 = water with a salinity of 1.5 PSU (1.5 gm/l); P3 = water with a salinity of 2.5 PSU (2.5 gm/l); and P4 = water with a salinity of 3 PSU (3.0 gm/l). Observations were made on water intake, feed intake, egg production, and egg quality (egg weight, egg shape index density, shell proportion, shell thickness, yolk index, albumen index, and Haugh unit). Results: The results showed that the difference in salinity levels in drinking water from 0.75 PSU to 3 PSU did not affect water intake, feed intake, egg production, or egg quality of Alabio ducks for the first 56 days of the laying period (p > 0.05). Conclusions: It was concluded that Alabio ducks have a good tolerance for drinking water salinity of up to 3 PSU, or equal to 3 gm/l NaCl. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2022; 9(2.000): 241-245]

Objective: To examine the effects of the salinity level of drinking water on the egg production and quality of Alabio ducks. Materials and Methods: A total of 60 female Alabio ducks, aged 6 months, were subjected to this study. All ducks were kept in stage-type cages (1 m length × 1 m width × 0.5 m height), where each cage was inhabited by 4 ducks for 56 days of experimentation. All ducks were offered a mixed ration ad libitum for laying ducks, according to the nutritional requirements for egg-type ducks. The treatment in this study was drinking water with five stratified salinity levels, namely P0 = freshwater (0% salinity); P1 = water with a salinity of 0.75 practical salinity unit (PSU) (equal to 0.75 g NaCl/l); P2 = water with a salinity of 1.5 PSU (1.5 gm/l); P3 = water with a salinity of 2.5 PSU (2.5 gm/l); and P4 = water with a salinity of 3 PSU (3.0 gm/l). Observations were made on water intake, feed intake, egg production, and egg quality (egg weight, egg shape index density, shell proportion, shell thickness, yolk index, albumen index, and Haugh unit). Results: The results showed that the difference in salinity levels in drinking water from 0.75 PSU to 3 PSU did not affect water intake, feed intake, egg production, or egg quality of Alabio ducks for the first 56 days of the laying period (p > 0.05). Conclusions: It was concluded that Alabio ducks have a good tolerance for drinking water salinity of up to 3 PSU, or equal to 3 gm/l NaCl. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2022; 9(2.000): 241-245]

Objective: To examine the effects of the salinity level of drinking water on the egg production and quality of Alabio ducks. Materials and Methods: A total of 60 female Alabio ducks, aged 6 months, were subjected to this study. All ducks were kept in stage-type cages (1 m length × 1 m width × 0.5 m height), where each cage was inhabited by 4 ducks for 56 days of experimentation. All ducks were offered a mixed ration ad libitum for laying ducks, according to the nutritional requirements for egg-type ducks. The treatment in this study was drinking water with five stratified salinity levels, namely P0 = freshwater (0% salinity); P1 = water with a salinity of 0.75 practical salinity unit (PSU) (equal to 0.75 g NaCl/l); P2 = water with a salinity of 1.5 PSU (1.5 gm/l); P3 = water with a salinity of 2.5 PSU (2.5 gm/l); and P4 = water with a salinity of 3 PSU (3.0 gm/l). Observations were made on water intake, feed intake, egg production, and egg quality (egg weight, egg shape index density, shell proportion, shell thickness, yolk index, albumen index, and Haugh unit). Results: The results showed that the difference in salinity levels in drinking water from 0.75 PSU to 3 PSU did not affect water intake, feed intake, egg production, or egg quality of Alabio ducks for the first 56 days of the laying period (p > 0.05). Conclusions: It was concluded that Alabio ducks have a good tolerance for drinking water salinity of up to 3 PSU, or equal to 3 gm/l NaCl. J. Adv. Vet. Anim. Res., 9(2): 241–245, June 2022 http://doi.org/10.5455/javar.2022.i589

Objective: This study assessed traditional farmers' preferences for indigenous pigs and their awareness levels toward reproductive biotechnology. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional, descriptive study employed a mixed-methods con¬current triangulation design with a pragmatic approach. For quantitative data collection, a ran¬domly selected sample size of 622 respondents was interviewed using a structured questionnaire. A semi-structured interview guide was used in seven focus group discussions (FGDs) for qualitative data. For quantitative data, descriptive statistics were used to find out how often something happened, and chi-square tests were used to look for relationships. For qualitative data, thematic analysis was used. Results: The majority (66.9%) of respondents were female, and they had largely (64.8%) attended a primary level of education. A slight majority (43.1%) of the respondents were 30–45 years old. Most respondents (65.1%) were low-income earners (below K500). Incidentally, the majority (74.1%) of respondents had low awareness of reproductive biotechnologies. Respondents' aware¬ness levels were associated with gender (p < 0.001), education (p < 0.001), income (p < 0.01), and not age (p > 0.05). With regard to trait preference, a total of seven indigenous pig traits were reportedly preferred, of which disease resistance (25.9%) and litter size (23.8%) were the most preferred. From FGDs, participants valued indigenous pigs, citing many preferred traits, of which disease resistance and litter size were the most emphasized traits. Some participants were aware of many reproductive biotechnologies and their perceived advantages. However, they were more familiar with artificial insemination, heat detection methods, and synchronization. Conclusions: The majority of respondents had low awareness of reproductive biotechnologies. Respondents' awareness was associated with sociodemographic characteristics. The identified indigenous pig traits preferred by traditional farmers included adaptive and productive traits. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2022; 9(2.000): 255-266]

Objective: This study assessed traditional farmers&apos; preferences for indigenous pigs and their awareness levels toward reproductive biotechnology. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional, descriptive study employed a mixed-methods con¬current triangulation design with a pragmatic approach. For quantitative data collection, a ran¬domly selected sample size of 622 respondents was interviewed using a structured questionnaire. A semi-structured interview guide was used in seven focus group discussions (FGDs) for qualitative data. For quantitative data, descriptive statistics were used to find out how often something happened, and chi-square tests were used to look for relationships. For qualitative data, thematic analysis was used. Results: The majority (66.9%) of respondents were female, and they had largely (64.8%) attended a primary level of education. A slight majority (43.1%) of the respondents were 30–45 years old. Most respondents (65.1%) were low-income earners (below K500). Incidentally, the majority (74.1%) of respondents had low awareness of reproductive biotechnologies. Respondents&apos; aware¬ness levels were associated with gender (p &lt; 0.001), education (p &lt; 0.001), income (p &lt; 0.01), and not age (p &gt; 0.05). With regard to trait preference, a total of seven indigenous pig traits were reportedly preferred, of which disease resistance (25.9%) and litter size (23.8%) were the most preferred. From FGDs, participants valued indigenous pigs, citing many preferred traits, of which disease resistance and litter size were the most emphasized traits. Some participants were aware of many reproductive biotechnologies and their perceived advantages. However, they were more familiar with artificial insemination, heat detection methods, and synchronization. Conclusions: The majority of respondents had low awareness of reproductive biotechnologies. Respondents&apos; awareness was associated with sociodemographic characteristics. The identified indigenous pig traits preferred by traditional farmers included adaptive and productive traits. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2022; 9(2.000): 255-266]

Objective: Rodlet cells produce secretions of glycoproteins in nature. This study investigated the microscopic morphology, histochemical and immunohistochemical reactions, and distribution of the rodlet cells in the gut of Binni fish (Mesopotamichthys sharpeyi). Materials and Methods: Thirty samples were obtained from the cranial, middle, and caudal por¬tions of Binni intestine immediately after being euthanized, fixed in Bouin's solution for 18 h at 24&#xb0;C, and had undergone routine histological processing, different conventional histochemical stains, and immunostaining with TNF-α and S100 protein antibody. Results: The intestine of Binni fish showed different stages of rodlet cells classified into three distinctive forms: vesicular, granular, and mature cells. Rodlet cells are poorly stained with hema¬toxylin and eosin. Their secretory granules have a weak positive reaction with periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) and Alcian blue (AB), and react positively to combined AB and PAS. Rodlet cells were stained lightly with Safranin O, observed pink in color by Giemsa stain, and showed reactivity to Masson's and Mallory trichrome stains. Rodlet cells were immunostained positively against TNF-α and S100 antibodies, indicating that they have an immune function. Conclusions: Rodlet cells, with their neutral glycoprotein secretions, play a crucial role in the immunity of Binni fish intestine. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2022; 9(2.000): 282-289]

Objective: Rodlet cells produce secretions of glycoproteins in nature. This study investigated the microscopic morphology, histochemical and immunohistochemical reactions, and distribution of the rodlet cells in the gut of Binni fish (Mesopotamichthys sharpeyi). Materials and Methods: Thirty samples were obtained from the cranial, middle, and caudal por¬tions of Binni intestine immediately after being euthanized, fixed in Bouin&apos;s solution for 18 h at 24&#xb0;C, and had undergone routine histological processing, different conventional histochemical stains, and immunostaining with TNF-α and S100 protein antibody. Results: The intestine of Binni fish showed different stages of rodlet cells classified into three distinctive forms: vesicular, granular, and mature cells. Rodlet cells are poorly stained with hema¬toxylin and eosin. Their secretory granules have a weak positive reaction with periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) and Alcian blue (AB), and react positively to combined AB and PAS. Rodlet cells were stained lightly with Safranin O, observed pink in color by Giemsa stain, and showed reactivity to Masson&apos;s and Mallory trichrome stains. Rodlet cells were immunostained positively against TNF-α and S100 antibodies, indicating that they have an immune function. Conclusions: Rodlet cells, with their neutral glycoprotein secretions, play a crucial role in the immunity of Binni fish intestine. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2022; 9(2.000): 282-289]

Objective: Here, we developed and tested the efficacy of a vaccination protocol based on a commercially available live attenuated Salmonella enterica serovar Gallinarum (Salmonella galli¬narum) in layer chickens. Materials and Methods: 50 layer chickens of 16 weeks age were obtained and divided into two groups (n = 25), control and vaccinated. The vaccinated group received Salmonella vaccine at 0.2 ml/bird, s/c route at 16, 18, 30, and 42 weeks of age. At 21 weeks of age, birds from both groups were challenged with S. gallinarum orally at 4 × 107 colony-forming unit per bird. Results: Both rapid serum plate agglutination and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay demonstrated a rising rate of seroconversion in vaccinated birds across the study period, with a 4% positive rate at 18 weeks, 56% at 21 weeks, 60% at 30 weeks, and 64% at each time point of 42 and 54 weeks. The vaccine showed 100% clinical protection and reduced the Salmonella shedding in the feces and eggs of the challenged birds. On the contrary, the unvaccinated challenged birds showed clinical signs and lesions typical of Salmonella infections with morbidity and mortality rates of 36% and 20%, respectively, and had high rates of Salmonella shedding in feces and eggs. Conclusions: With the proposed vaccination schedule Salmonella shedding was prevented, and a high seroconversion was confirmed. To prevent Salmonella infections in laying flocks, a 3-month interval immunization program is advised starting at the pre-laying stage. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2022; 9(2.000): 301-309]

Objective: Here, we developed and tested the efficacy of a vaccination protocol based on a commercially available live attenuated Salmonella enterica serovar Gallinarum (Salmonella gallinarum) in layer chickens. Materials and Methods: 50 layer chickens of 16 weeks age were obtained and divided into two groups (n = 25), control and vaccinated. The vaccinated group received Salmonella vaccine at 0.2 ml/bird, s/c route at 16, 18, 30, and 42 weeks of age. At 21 weeks of age, birds from both groups were challenged with S. gallinarum orally at 4 × 107 colony-forming unit per bird. Results: Both rapid serum plate agglutination and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay demonstrated a rising rate of seroconversion in vaccinated birds across the study period, with a 4% positive rate at 18 weeks, 56% at 21 weeks, 60% at 30 weeks, and 64% at each time point of 42 and 54 weeks. The vaccine showed 100% clinical protection and reduced the Salmonella shedding in the feces and eggs of the challenged birds. On the contrary, the unvaccinated challenged birds showed clinical signs and lesions typical of Salmonella infections with morbidity and mortality rates of 36% and 20%, respectively, and had high rates of Salmonella shedding in feces and eggs. Conclusions: With the proposed vaccination schedule Salmonella shedding was prevented, and a high seroconversion was confirmed. To prevent Salmonella infections in laying flocks, a 3-month interval immunization program is advised starting at the pre-laying stage. J. Adv. Vet. Anim. Res., 9(2): 301–309, June 2022 http://doi.org/10.5455/javar.2022.i597

Objective: Here, we developed and tested the efficacy of a vaccination protocol based on a commercially available live attenuated Salmonella enterica serovar Gallinarum (Salmonella galli¬narum) in layer chickens. Materials and Methods: 50 layer chickens of 16 weeks age were obtained and divided into two groups (n = 25), control and vaccinated. The vaccinated group received Salmonella vaccine at 0.2 ml/bird, s/c route at 16, 18, 30, and 42 weeks of age. At 21 weeks of age, birds from both groups were challenged with S. gallinarum orally at 4 × 107 colony-forming unit per bird. Results: Both rapid serum plate agglutination and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay demonstrated a rising rate of seroconversion in vaccinated birds across the study period, with a 4% positive rate at 18 weeks, 56% at 21 weeks, 60% at 30 weeks, and 64% at each time point of 42 and 54 weeks. The vaccine showed 100% clinical protection and reduced the Salmonella shedding in the feces and eggs of the challenged birds. On the contrary, the unvaccinated challenged birds showed clinical signs and lesions typical of Salmonella infections with morbidity and mortality rates of 36% and 20%, respectively, and had high rates of Salmonella shedding in feces and eggs. Conclusions: With the proposed vaccination schedule Salmonella shedding was prevented, and a high seroconversion was confirmed. To prevent Salmonella infections in laying flocks, a 3-month interval immunization program is advised starting at the pre-laying stage. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2022; 9(2.000): 301-309]

Objective: Quail production is ranked as an important alternative animal protein source in Cameroon. One of the main constraints of this production is the quality of feed, which lacks pro¬tein that is regularly supplied by fish meal. To avoid disagreements due to the constant shortage of fish meal, alternative protein sources are needed, and among them are crickets (Acheta domes¬ticus). The goal of this study was to find out how well Japanese quails could be raised if fish meal was replaced with cricket meal. Materials and Methods: A total of 192, 4-week-old quails were divided into 12 similar sets of 8 females and 8 males. The Four experimental diets (T00, T15, T30, and T45) were all formulated based on the level (0%, 15%, 30%, and 45%, respectively) of fish meal substitution with cricket meal in the basal diet (crude protein: 20.18% and ME: 3,013.78 kcal/kg) and randomly assigned to three sets in a completely randomized design consisting of four treatments each repeated three times. Growth, carcass, and some reproduction parameters were collected. The data were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance and the Duncan test, with a significance level of 5%. Results: Cricket meal diets increased body weight in males (204.32 ± 5.69 gm for T45) and regard¬less of the sex (226.72 ± 29.45 gm for T30) compared to 184.17 ± 3.11 gm and 214.55 ± 32.77 gm for the control group, respectively. In females, substitution at 30% increased body weight (253.80 ± 6.48 gm), while 45% induced a reduction (216.67 ± 6.49 gm) when compared to the control group value (244.92 ± 6.07 gm). Carcass yield and the proportion of different parts were not significantly affected by the experimental diets. Liver proportions were significantly higher at 15% and 35% cricket meal incorporation compared to 45%. First songs and egg laying were recorded at 7 weeks with T15, which also led to improved egg laying performance compared to the other treatments. Ovaries were poorly developed in the T45 females compared to the other treatments. Conclusions: Cricket flour might be a good candidate as a locally available protein source to sub¬stitute fish meal in the Japanese quail's diet at the finisher and reproductive stages, and the level of 30% seems to be more efficient. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2022; 9(2.000): 310-322]

Objective: Quail production is ranked as an important alternative animal protein source in Cameroon. One of the main constraints of this production is the quality of feed, which lacks pro¬tein that is regularly supplied by fish meal. To avoid disagreements due to the constant shortage of fish meal, alternative protein sources are needed, and among them are crickets (Acheta domes¬ticus). The goal of this study was to find out how well Japanese quails could be raised if fish meal was replaced with cricket meal. Materials and Methods: A total of 192, 4-week-old quails were divided into 12 similar sets of 8 females and 8 males. The Four experimental diets (T00, T15, T30, and T45) were all formulated based on the level (0%, 15%, 30%, and 45%, respectively) of fish meal substitution with cricket meal in the basal diet (crude protein: 20.18% and ME: 3,013.78 kcal/kg) and randomly assigned to three sets in a completely randomized design consisting of four treatments each repeated three times. Growth, carcass, and some reproduction parameters were collected. The data were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance and the Duncan test, with a significance level of 5%. Results: Cricket meal diets increased body weight in males (204.32 ± 5.69 gm for T45) and regard¬less of the sex (226.72 ± 29.45 gm for T30) compared to 184.17 ± 3.11 gm and 214.55 ± 32.77 gm for the control group, respectively. In females, substitution at 30% increased body weight (253.80 ± 6.48 gm), while 45% induced a reduction (216.67 ± 6.49 gm) when compared to the control group value (244.92 ± 6.07 gm). Carcass yield and the proportion of different parts were not significantly affected by the experimental diets. Liver proportions were significantly higher at 15% and 35% cricket meal incorporation compared to 45%. First songs and egg laying were recorded at 7 weeks with T15, which also led to improved egg laying performance compared to the other treatments. Ovaries were poorly developed in the T45 females compared to the other treatments. Conclusions: Cricket flour might be a good candidate as a locally available protein source to sub¬stitute fish meal in the Japanese quail&apos;s diet at the finisher and reproductive stages, and the level of 30% seems to be more efficient. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2022; 9(2.000): 310-322]

Objective: Quail production is ranked as an important alternative animal protein source in Cameroon. One of the main constraints of this production is the quality of feed, which lacks protein that is regularly supplied by fish meal. To avoid disagreements due to the constant shortage of fish meal, alternative protein sources are needed, and among them are crickets(Acheta domesticus). The goal of this study was to find out how well Japanese quails could be raised if fish meal was replaced with cricket meal. Materials and Methods: A total of 192, 4-week-old quails were divided into 12 similar sets of 8 females and 8 males. The Four experimental diets (T00, T15, T30, and T45) were all formulated based on the level (0%, 15%, 30%, and 45%, respectively) of fish meal substitution with cricket meal in the basal diet (crude protein: 20.18% and ME: 3,013.78 kcal/kg) and randomly assigned to three sets in a completely randomized design consisting of four treatments each repeated three times. Growth, carcass, and some reproduction parameters were collected. The data were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance and the Duncan test, with a significance level of 5%. Results: Cricket meal diets increased body weight in males (204.32 ± 5.69 gm for T45) and regardless of the sex (226.72 ± 29.45 gm for T30) compared to 184.17 ± 3.11 gm and 214.55 ± 32.77 gm for the control group, respectively. In females, substitution at 30% increased body weight (253.80 ± 6.48 gm), while 45% induced a reduction (216.67 ± 6.49 gm) when compared to the control group value (244.92 ± 6.07 gm). Carcass yield and the proportion of different parts were not significantly affected by the experimental diets. Liver proportions were significantly higher at 15% and 35% cricket meal incorporation compared to 45%. First songs and egg laying were recorded at 7 weeks with T15, which also led to improved egg laying performance compared to the other treatments. Ovaries were poorly developed in the T45 females compared to the other treatments. Conclusions: Cricket flour might be a good candidate as a locally available protein source to substitute fish meal in the Japanese quail’s diet at the finisher and reproductive stages, and the level of 30% seems to be more efficient. J. Adv. Vet. Anim. Res., 9(2): 310–322, June 2022 http://doi.org/10.5455/javar.2022.i598

Anthrax is a rapidly fatal infectious disease affecting herbivores and people. In the farm ani¬mals, cattle and sheep are more susceptible, followed by goats and horses, while dwarf pigs and Algerian sheep are relatively resistant. Bacillus anthracis, the causative agent of anthrax, produces spores and persists for decades in the soil, initiating an outbreak through a favorable climate shift. Anthrax is enzootic in many Asian and African countries, and is reported in Australia, some parts of Europe, and America. The clinical courses of this disease in animals are peracute, acute, sub¬acute, and chronic forms. In severely infected cases, the animals are dead without premonitory clinical signs. The blood may fail to clot and can be found in the mouth, nostrils, and anus in the animals that die from anthrax. This bacterium is susceptible to many antibiotics, yet only penicillin and oxytetracycline have the most effective under field conditions. When an outbreak occurs in a defined area, it is necessary to take early steps to break the infection cycle by maintaining strict biosecurity and vaccinating uninfected animals. This disease is still a challenge to farm animal production in many countries. This review intends to give a fair knowledge of the etiology, epi¬demiology, pathogenesis, clinical presentation, diagnosis, treatment, and control of this disease. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2022; 9(2.000): 323-334]

Anthrax is a rapidly fatal infectious disease affecting herbivores and people. In the farm ani¬mals, cattle and sheep are more susceptible, followed by goats and horses, while dwarf pigs and Algerian sheep are relatively resistant. Bacillus anthracis, the causative agent of anthrax, produces spores and persists for decades in the soil, initiating an outbreak through a favorable climate shift. Anthrax is enzootic in many Asian and African countries, and is reported in Australia, some parts of Europe, and America. The clinical courses of this disease in animals are peracute, acute, sub¬acute, and chronic forms. In severely infected cases, the animals are dead without premonitory clinical signs. The blood may fail to clot and can be found in the mouth, nostrils, and anus in the animals that die from anthrax. This bacterium is susceptible to many antibiotics, yet only penicillin and oxytetracycline have the most effective under field conditions. When an outbreak occurs in a defined area, it is necessary to take early steps to break the infection cycle by maintaining strict biosecurity and vaccinating uninfected animals. This disease is still a challenge to farm animal production in many countries. This review intends to give a fair knowledge of the etiology, epi¬demiology, pathogenesis, clinical presentation, diagnosis, treatment, and control of this disease. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2022; 9(2.000): 323-334]

Objective: A 35-day-long trial was conducted to compare the consequences of supplementing citric acid (CA), Spirulina platensis, and their combination as natural substitutes for antibiotic growth promoters (AGP) on the productive performance, dressing percentage, and blood serum metabolites of broilers. Materials and Methods: A total of 150-day-old Cobb-500 broiler chicks were randomly assigned to 5 dietary treatment groups, each having 30 chicks in it (10 chicks per replicate cage). The dietary groups were as follows: 1- Control (corn–soybean-based), 2- Control + antibiotic (Enrofloxacin, 10 mg/kg bodyweight), 3- Control + 1% S. platensis, 4- Control + 0.5% CA, and 5- Control + 1% spirulina + 0.5% CA. Starting from day 7 up to day 21, antibiotics were administered via water; spirulina and CA were offered via feed. Results: When compared to the control, all dietary supplements significantly (p < 0.05) improved broiler growth performance. However, dressing characteristics and serum metabolites (serum creatinine, albumin, and uric acid) were not influenced (p > 0.05) by dietary changes, except cholesterol level (p < 0.05). Supplementation with antibiotics, CA, and spirulina produced com-parable results. Among them, the CA-fed group recorded the highest live weight, weight gain, feed intake, improved feed conversion ratio, and the lowest serum cholesterol level (106.5 mg/ dl). The combination group performed better than the control, but not as well as their single supplementations. Conclusions: CA and S. platensis might both be good candidates as natural alternatives to AGP (Enrofloxacin). But, among them, CA performed better in terms of production performance. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2022; 9(1.000): 1-7]

Objective: A 35-day-long trial was conducted to compare the consequences of supplementing citric acid (CA), Spirulina platensis, and their combination as natural substitutes for antibiotic growth promoters (AGP) on the productive performance, dressing percentage, and blood serum metabolites of broilers. Materials and Methods: A total of 150-day-old Cobb-500 broiler chicks were randomly assigned to 5 dietary treatment groups, each having 30 chicks in it (10 chicks per replicate cage). The dietary groups were as follows: 1- Control (corn–soybean-based), 2- Control + antibiotic (Enrofloxacin, 10 mg/kg bodyweight), 3- Control + 1% S. platensis, 4- Control + 0.5% CA, and 5- Control + 1% spirulina + 0.5% CA. Starting from day 7 up to day 21, antibiotics were administered via water; spirulina and CA were offered via feed. Results: When compared to the control, all dietary supplements significantly (p &lt; 0.05) improved broiler growth performance. However, dressing characteristics and serum metabolites (serum creatinine, albumin, and uric acid) were not influenced (p &gt; 0.05) by dietary changes, except cholesterol level (p &lt; 0.05). Supplementation with antibiotics, CA, and spirulina produced com-parable results. Among them, the CA-fed group recorded the highest live weight, weight gain, feed intake, improved feed conversion ratio, and the lowest serum cholesterol level (106.5 mg/ dl). The combination group performed better than the control, but not as well as their single supplementations. Conclusions: CA and S. platensis might both be good candidates as natural alternatives to AGP (Enrofloxacin). But, among them, CA performed better in terms of production performance. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2022; 9(1.000): 1-7]

Objective: A 35-day-long trial was conducted to compare the consequences of supplementing cit­ric acid (CA), Spirulina platensis, and their combination as natural substitutes for antibiotic growth promoters (AGP) on the productive performance, dressing percentage, and blood serum metab­olites of broilers.  Materials and Methods: A total of 150-day-old Cobb-500 broiler chicks were randomly assigned to 5 dietary treatment groups, each having 30 chicks in it (10 chicks per replicate cage). The dietary groups were as follows: 1- Control (corn–soybean-based), 2- Control + antibiotic (Enrofloxacin, 10 mg/kg bodyweight), 3- Control + 1% S. platensis, 4- Control + 0.5% CA, and 5- Control + 1% spiru­lina + 0.5% CA. Starting from day 7 up to day 21, antibiotics were administered via water; spirulina and CA were offered via feed.  Results: When compared to the control, all dietary supplements significantly (p &lt; 0.05) improved broiler growth performance. However, dressing characteristics and serum metabolites (serum creatinine, albumin, and uric acid) were not influenced (p &gt; 0.05) by dietary changes, except cholesterol level (p &lt; 0.05). Supplementation with antibiotics, CA, and spirulina produced com­parable results. Among them, the CA-fed group recorded the highest live weight, weight gain, feed intake, improved feed conversion ratio, and the lowest serum cholesterol level (106.5 mg/ dl). The combination group performed better than the control, but not as well as their single supplementations.  Conclusions: CA and S. platensis might both be good candidates as natural alternatives to AGP (Enrofloxacin). But, among them, CA performed better in terms of production performance. J. Adv. Vet. Anim. Res., 9(1): 1–7, March 2022 http://doi.org/10.5455/javar.2022.i562

Objectives: The research aims to analyze the catabolic strength of different hydrolytic enzymes in assessing the biological conversion potential of lignocellulose parts of agricultural biomass wastes into functional edible sugars and biofuels. Materials and Methods: The enzymes' hydrolytic properties—versatile peroxidase, manganese peroxidase, and lignin peroxidase were used to identify their complexing strength with the lignin substrate, whereas endoglucanase cel12A, acidocaldarius cellulase, and Melanocarpus albomyces endoglucanase were tested on the cellulose gel substrate. Because the biodegradation properties are heavily influenced by the "enzyme-substrate complexing energy level," proper molecular optimization and energy minimization of the enzymes and substrates were carried out, as well as the identification of the enzyme's active sites prior to complexing. comprehensive molecular dynamic simulation was run to study their—alpha carbon, root-mean-square deviation (Å), molecular surface area (Å2), root-mean-square fluctuation (Å), radius of gyration (nm), hydrogen bonds with hydrophobic interactions, and solvent accessible surface area (Å2) values for 50 ns. The simulated data mining was conducted using advanced programming algorithms to establish the final enzyme-substrate complexing strength in binding and catalysis. Results: Among the lignin-degrading enzymes, versatile peroxidase shows promising catalytic activity with the best docking pose and significant values in all the dynamic simulation parameters. Similarly, Melanocarpus albomyces endoglucanase shows the best activity in all aspects of molecular docking and dynamics among the cellulose-degrading enzymes. Conclusion: The lignin content of biomass wastes can be degraded into cellulose and hemicellulose using lignin-degrading enzymes. The cellulose can be further degraded into glucose and xylose sugars following the cellulose-degrading enzyme activity. These sugars can be further degraded into biofuel through anaerobic fermentation. Systematic bioconversion of the lignocellulosic components can ensure sustainable biomass management, creating an alternative food and energy source for human beings to face the challenges of global hunger where the enzymes can pave the way. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2022; 9(1.000): 19-32]

Objectives: The research aims to analyze the catabolic strength of different hydrolytic enzymes in assessing the biological conversion potential of lignocellulose parts of agricultural biomass wastes into functional edible sugars and biofuels. Materials and Methods: The enzymes' hydrolytic properties—versatile peroxidase, manganese peroxidase, and lignin peroxidase were used to identify their complexing strength with the lignin substrate, whereas endoglucanase cel12A, acidocaldarius cellulase, and Melanocarpus albomyces endoglucanase were tested on the cellulose gel substrate. Because the biodegradation properties are heavily influenced by the "enzyme-substrate complexing energy level," proper molecular optimization and energy minimization of the enzymes and substrates were carried out, as well as the identification of the enzyme's active sites prior to complexing. comprehensive molecular dynamic simulation was run to study their—alpha carbon, root-mean-square deviation (Å), molecular surface area (Å2), root-mean-square fluctuation (Å), radius of gyration (nm), hydrogen bonds with hydrophobic interactions, and solvent accessible surface area (Å2) values for 50 ns. The simulated data mining was conducted using advanced programming algorithms to establish the final enzyme-substrate complexing strength in binding and catalysis. Results: Among the lignin-degrading enzymes, versatile peroxidase shows promising catalytic activity with the best docking pose and significant values in all the dynamic simulation parameters. Similarly, Melanocarpus albomyces endoglucanase shows the best activity in all aspects of molecular docking and dynamics among the cellulose-degrading enzymes. Conclusion: The lignin content of biomass wastes can be degraded into cellulose and hemicellulose using lignin-degrading enzymes. The cellulose can be further degraded into glucose and xylose sugars following the cellulose-degrading enzyme activity. These sugars can be further degraded into biofuel through anaerobic fermentation. Systematic bioconversion of the lignocellulosic components can ensure sustainable biomass management, creating an alternative food and energy source for human beings to face the challenges of global hunger where the enzymes can pave the way. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2022; 9(1.000): 19-32]

Objectives: The research aims to analyze the catabolic strength of different hydrolytic enzymes in assessing the biological conversion potential of lignocellulose parts of agricultural biomass wastes into functional edible sugars and biofuels. Materials and Methods: The enzymes’ hydrolytic properties—versatile peroxidase, manganese peroxidase, and lignin peroxidase were used to identify their complexing strength with the lignin substrate, whereas endoglucanase cel12A, acidocaldarius cellulase, and Melanocarpus albomyces endoglucanase were tested on the cellulose gel substrate. Because the biodegradation properties are heavily influenced by the “enzyme-substrate complexing energy level,” proper molecular optimization and energy minimization of the enzymes and substrates were carried out, as well as the identification of the enzyme’s active sites prior to complexing.comprehensive molecular dynamic simulation was run to study their—alpha carbon, root-mean-square deviation (Å), molecular surface area (Å2), root-mean-square fluctuation (Å), radius of gyration (nm), hydrogen bonds with hydrophobic interactions, and solvent accessible surface area (Å2) values for 50 ns. The simulated data mining was conducted using advanced programming algorithms to establish the final enzyme-substrate complexing strength in binding and catalysis. Results: Among the lignin-degrading enzymes, versatile peroxidase shows promising catalytic activity with the best docking pose and significant values in all the dynamic simulation parameters. Similarly, Melanocarpus albomyces endoglucanase shows the best activity in all aspects of molecular docking and dynamics among the cellulose-degrading enzymes. Conclusion: The lignin content of biomass wastes can be degraded into cellulose and hemicellulose using lignin-degrading enzymes. The cellulose can be further degraded into glucose and xylose sugars following the cellulose-degrading enzyme activity. These sugars can be further degraded into biofuel through anaerobic fermentation. Systematic bioconversion of the lignocellulosic components can ensure sustainable biomass management, creating an alternative food and energy source for human beings to face the challenges of global hunger where the enzymes can pave the way. J. Adv. Vet. Anim. Res., 9(1): 19–32, March 2022 http://doi.org/10.5455/javar.2022.i565

Objective: Many bacteria are involved in causing mastitis in dairy cows. Perfect identification of bacteria is crucial for the appropriate choice of drug for treatment. This study aims to find out the various bacteria that cause mastitis through the 16S ribosomal ribonucleic acid (16S rRNA) gene. Materials and Methods: A total of 150 mastitis somatic cell samples were tested with bacterial nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) universal primers, targeting the 16S rRNA gene. The primers had both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial specificities. Inflammatory cytokine interleukin (IL-10), IL-4, and interferon-gamma (IFNγ) expression genes were measured and compared in mastitis-free and mastitis-affected animals. Results: Based on the PCR, 70 (46.7%) samples showed positive results. The expression of the IL-10 gene was significantly higher (p < 0.001) in mastitis-affected cows than noninfected animals. Compared to cows diagnosed with clinical mastitis, the IL-4 and IFNγ genes were expressed more strongly in healthy cows (p < 0.0001). Conclusion: Mastitis has been linked to both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. These genes are strong predictors of mastitis in the states analyzed, as evidenced by the differential expression in mastitis and healthy conditions of the IL-4, IL-10, and IFNγ genes. The genes examined here and others will be the subject of additional research. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2022; 9(1.000): 42-52]

Objective: Many bacteria are involved in causing mastitis in dairy cows. Perfect identification of bacteria is crucial for the appropriate choice of drug for treatment. This study aims to find out the various bacteria that cause mastitis through the 16S ribosomal ribonucleic acid (16S rRNA) gene. Materials and Methods: A total of 150 mastitis somatic cell samples were tested with bacterial nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) universal primers, targeting the 16S rRNA gene. The primers had both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial specificities. Inflammatory cytokine interleukin (IL-10), IL-4, and interferon-gamma (IFNγ) expression genes were measured and compared in mastitis-free and mastitis-affected animals. Results: Based on the PCR, 70 (46.7%) samples showed positive results. The expression of the IL-10 gene was significantly higher (p &lt; 0.001) in mastitis-affected cows than noninfected animals. Compared to cows diagnosed with clinical mastitis, the IL-4 and IFNγ genes were expressed more strongly in healthy cows (p &lt; 0.0001). Conclusion: Mastitis has been linked to both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. These genes are strong predictors of mastitis in the states analyzed, as evidenced by the differential expression in mastitis and healthy conditions of the IL-4, IL-10, and IFNγ genes. The genes examined here and others will be the subject of additional research&nbsp; J. Adv. Vet. Anim. Res., 9(1): 42–52, March 2022 http://doi.org/10.5455/javar.2022.i567

Objective: Many bacteria are involved in causing mastitis in dairy cows. Perfect identification of bacteria is crucial for the appropriate choice of drug for treatment. This study aims to find out the various bacteria that cause mastitis through the 16S ribosomal ribonucleic acid (16S rRNA) gene. Materials and Methods: A total of 150 mastitis somatic cell samples were tested with bacterial nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) universal primers, targeting the 16S rRNA gene. The primers had both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial specificities. Inflammatory cytokine interleukin (IL-10), IL-4, and interferon-gamma (IFNγ) expression genes were measured and compared in mastitis-free and mastitis-affected animals. Results: Based on the PCR, 70 (46.7%) samples showed positive results. The expression of the IL-10 gene was significantly higher (p &lt; 0.001) in mastitis-affected cows than noninfected animals. Compared to cows diagnosed with clinical mastitis, the IL-4 and IFNγ genes were expressed more strongly in healthy cows (p &lt; 0.0001). Conclusion: Mastitis has been linked to both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. These genes are strong predictors of mastitis in the states analyzed, as evidenced by the differential expression in mastitis and healthy conditions of the IL-4, IL-10, and IFNγ genes. The genes examined here and others will be the subject of additional research. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2022; 9(1.000): 42-52]

Objective: The study was undertaken to assess the changes in viable bacterial counts and physicochemical parameters of water used during the live transportation of Pangasius catfish (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus). The correlations between the changing patterns of these parameters were also established. Materials and Methods: Water samples were collected every 2 h interval, plated onto agar plates for assesing viable bacterial counts. Physicochemical parameters, namely, water temperature, dissolved oxygen (DO), pH, and ammonia (NH3) concentration in the water were measured with a glass thermometer, DO test kit, pH test kit, and total NH3 measurement kit, respectively. Results: The viable bacterial counts increased significantly from 0 to 2 h in all the studied chan¬nels and remained almost similar up to the end of the supply channels. The water temperature was almost stable regardless of the supply channels and transportation period at around 30&#xb0;C. The DO concentration and pH level decreased, and NH3 concentrations increased gradually in all the supply channels. The viable bacterial counts were inversely correlated to the DO levels and directly associated with the NH3 concentrations of the water used during the live transportation of Pangasius catfish. Conclusions: Gradual increase in viable bacterial counts and fluctuation in some vital physicochemical parameters with the duration of transportation indicated an unfavorable environment for the survival of Pangasius catfish. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2022; 9(1.000): 66-77]

Objective: The study was undertaken to assess the changes in viable bacterial counts and physicochemical parameters of water used during the live transportation of Pangasius catfish (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus). The correlations between the changing patterns of these parameters were also established. Materials and Methods: Water samples were collected every 2 h interval, plated onto agar plates for assesing viable bacterial counts. Physicochemical parameters, namely, water temperature, dissolved oxygen (DO), pH, and ammonia (NH3) concentration in the water were measured with a glass thermometer, DO test kit, pH test kit, and total NH3 measurement kit, respectively. Results: The viable bacterial counts increased significantly from 0 to 2 h in all the studied chan¬nels and remained almost similar up to the end of the supply channels. The water temperature was almost stable regardless of the supply channels and transportation period at around 30&#xb0;C. The DO concentration and pH level decreased, and NH3 concentrations increased gradually in all the supply channels. The viable bacterial counts were inversely correlated to the DO levels and directly associated with the NH3 concentrations of the water used during the live transportation of Pangasius catfish. Conclusions: Gradual increase in viable bacterial counts and fluctuation in some vital physicochemical parameters with the duration of transportation indicated an unfavorable environment for the survival of Pangasius catfish. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2022; 9(1.000): 66-77]