• Asian-Australasian Journal of Animal Sciences
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• 제32권7호
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• pp.977-987
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• 2019

Objective: The use of tannin extract and other phytochemicals as dietary additives in ruminants is becoming more popular due to their wide biological actions such as in methane mitigation, bypass of dietary protein, intestinal nematode control, among other uses. Unfortunately, some have strong astringency, low stability and bioavailability, and negatively affecting dry matter intake and digestibility. To circumvent these drawbacks, an effective delivery system may offer a promising approach to administer these extracts to the site where they are required. The objectives of this study were to encapsulate acacia tannin extract (ATE) with native starch and maltodextrin-gum arabic and to test the effect of encapsulation parameters on encapsulation efficiency, yield and morphology of the microparticles obtained as well as the effect on rumen in vitro gas production. Methods: The ATE was encapsulated with the wall materials, and the morphological features of freeze-dried microparticles were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy. The in vitro release pattern of microparticles in acetate buffer, simulating the rumen, and its effect on in vitro gas production was evaluated. Results: The morphological features revealed that maltodextrin/gum-arabic microparticles were irregular shaped, glossy and smaller, compared with those encapsulated with native starch, which were bigger, and more homogenous. Maltodextrin-gum arabic could be used up to 30% loading concentration compared with starch, which could not hold the core material beyond 15% loading capacity. Encapsulation efficiency ranged from $27.7%{\pm}6.4%$ to $48.8%{\pm}5.5%$ in starch and $56.1%{\pm}4.9%$ to $64.8%{\pm}2.8%$ in maltodextrin-gum arabic microparticles. Only a slight reduction in methane emission was recorded in encapsulated microparticles when compared with the samples containing only wall materials. Conclusion: Both encapsulated products exhibited the burst release pattern under the pH conditions and methane reduction associated with tannin was marginal. This is attributable to small loading percentages and therefore, other wall materials or encapsulation methods should be investigated.

• Journal of Forest and Environmental Science
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• 제37권1호
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• pp.62-68
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• 2021

Despite numerous efforts on reducing road-kill worldwide, the collisions have been occurring continuously. Many factors are affecting road-kill occurrences and the effect is various by species. We investigated Hydropotes inermis argyropus road-kill characteristics on the national highway. We examined 9,099 H. i. argyropus road-kill points with distance to the gaps on road (interchange and intersection) and distance to six natural land-cover types as explanatory variables. We also examined the number of road-kill occurrences according to temporal variation using chi-square test with 9,658 events. In general, H. i. argyropus road-kill location tended to occur close to the gaps on road, agricultural lands and forests. The average distance from road-kill to the gap was 694.7 m and 78.6% of the collisions were occurred within 1 km from the gaps. In addition, Kruskal-Wallis test showed the distance between road-kill points and each land cover and the gaps was significantly different. The temporal analyses showed that the differences of the H. i. argyropus road-kill frequency are significant in both month and season. Our results implies H. i. argyropus road-kill location tended to occur close to the gaps on road, agricultural lands and forests in general, especially during May and June, according to their seasonal behavior. Thus, we suggest there is a need of concentrated management on the roads with specific characteristics for both wildlife and human safety.

• Journal of Veterinary Science
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• 제19권6호
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• pp.735-743
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• 2018

We investigated the effect of transforming growth factor beta 1 ($TGF-{\beta}1$) on equine hyaluronan synthase 2 (HAS2) gene expression and hyaluronan (HA) synthesis in culture models of articular chondrocytes. Equine chondrocytes were treated with $TGF-{\beta}1$ at different concentrations and times in monolayer cultures. In three-dimensional cultures, chondrocyte-seeded gelatin scaffolds were cultured in chondrogenic media containing 10 ng/mL of $TGF-{\beta}1$. The amounts of HA in conditioned media and in scaffolds were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. HAS2 mRNA expression was analyzed by semi-quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. The uronic acid content and DNA content of the scaffolds were measured by using colorimetric and Hoechst 33258 assays, respectively. Cell proliferation was evaluated by using the alamarBlue assay. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), histology, and immunohistochemistry were used for microscopic analysis of the samples. The upregulation of HAS2 mRNA levels by $TGF-{\beta}1$ stimulation was dose and time dependent. $TGF-{\beta}1$ was shown to enhance HA and uronic acid content in the scaffolds. Cell proliferation and DNA content were significantly lower in $TGF-{\beta}1$ treatments. SEM and histological results revealed the formation of a cartilaginous-like extracellular matrix in the $TGF-{\beta}1$-treated scaffolds. Together, our results suggest that $TGF-{\beta}1$ has a stimulatory effect on equine chondrocytes, enhancing HA synthesis and promoting cartilage matrix generation.

• Journal of Forest and Environmental Science
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• 제38권1호
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• pp.55-63
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• 2022

The African swine fever virus (ASFV) remains contagious for a long time, not only in the carcass, but also in the bone marrow of an infected animal. The scavenging activity of various animals on ASFV-infected carcasses is a likely risk factor for ASFV transmission. Thus, we conducted this study to determine whether scavengers are potential vectors for ASFV. In nonprotected wild boar carcasses on the forest floor, we investigated the seasonal patterns of carcass decomposition and scavenger visits for feeding on them. The duration from fresh to early skeletonization (only bones and leather remaining) of adult carcasses was 37.6±23.1 days (n=3, range=11-51 days) in winter. The duration from fresh to later skeletonization (only bones and some fur remaining) of all carcasses, including subadult carcasses, was 8.3±2.5 days (n=4, range=7-12 days) in summer. At all three study sites, leopard cats (30.3%), large-billed crows (21.6%), and golden eagles (18.1%) were the frequently visiting species, representing more than 10% of the total visits (343 visits) in winter, whereas raccoons (21.9%), grey-backed thrushes (39.4%), and eyebrowed thrushes (14.7%) were the most frequent visitors in summer. In winter, crows or cinereous vultures were the first animals to arrive at a carcass; in summer, raccoons or crows arrived first. Our results showed that wild boars, raccoons, and leopard cats relatively frequently visited wild boar carcasses and stayed there for a long time. Wild rodents chewing on or staying near carcasses were photographed during winter. In addition to wild boars, thus, mammals, such as raccoons, leopard cats and rodents, and birds, such as accipitrids and thrushes, may be spreaders of ASFV in South Korea.

• Journal of Forest and Environmental Science
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• 제38권1호
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• pp.21-37
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• 2022

The present study was carried out to evaluate the chemical properties of soil in relation to forest structure and composition at different altitudes (900-2,600 m asl) in a part of Western Himalaya. The composite soil samples were taken from three (viz. upper, middle and lower) depths. The soils of the whole study area were acidic in nature (pH=4.90-5.51). Contents of Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), Potassium (K), Carbon (C) and soil organic matter (SOM) showed much fluctuation during different seasons of year. Nitrogen content showed significant positive correlations with altitude (r=0.924, p<0.05) and different community parameters like species diversity (r=0.892, p<0.01) and species richness (r=0.941, p<0.05). Phosphorus exhibited direct correlations with carbon (r=0.637) while weak negative correlations with different community parameters like species richness & diversity, total basal cover (TBC), density and canopy cover. Carbon content and hence SOM showed direct correlations with Nitrogen (r=0.821, p<0.01); Phosphorus (r=0.637, ns) and Potassium (r=0.540, ns). But no significant relationship was observed between K content and species richness (p=0.30, r=-0.504); between K content and species diversity (p=0.14, r=-0.672); between P content and species diversity (p=0.29, r=-0.513) and species richness (p=0.23, r=-0.575). Among the different soil nutrients, only N showed a significant positive correlation with altitude while all others exhibited negative (but non-significant) correlation with it. The study revealed that the chemical properties affect and are reciprocally affected by forest structure and composition and that N rich soils of higher altitudes are best for the growth and development of forests.

• 한국임상수의학회지
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• 제39권3호
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• pp.131-137
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• 2022

Osteomyelitis typically occurs because of the direct inoculation of bacteria or fungi after penetrating trauma or surgical contamination or, by extension, from soft tissue infection. Osteomyelitis is rarely reported in wildlife animals, though severe chronic osteomyelitis cases do exist in wildlife owing to the scarcity of medical support in the wild environment. This report describes three cases of chronic osteomyelitis in wild raccoon dogs related to trauma. The typical symptoms of three reported cases were ataxia, stiffness, muscle atrophy, and lethargy. All three cases were relevant to traumatic or severe external injury, and skin infestation caused by ectoparasites was apparent on an ocular inspection. In the radiographic examination, diffuse sites of osteolytic lesions and remarkable periosteal responses were demonstrated around the injured limb in all three cases. Apparent neutrophilia with a left shift, lymphocytosis, and monocytosis in hematological examinations generally indicated chronic infection as shown in case 1 and 3. Treatment was attempted with broad-spectrum antibiotics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, enrofloxacin, clindamycin, and meloxicam. These treatment options helped improve the overall prognosis of chronic osteomyelitis, but the outcomes did not meet the treatment goal entirely. Osteomyelitis can be extremely challenging to treat, particularly in wild animals, because of their distinctive traits, such as masking phenomenon and uncontrolled exposure to ectoparasites. Earlier diagnosis with a radiographic examination, hematological examinations, and careful patient monitoring, followed by prolonged antibiotic therapy and restricted exercise, are the key factors leading to a better prognosis.

• 한국임상수의학회지
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• 제40권2호
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• pp.119-123
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• 2023

Although various imaging evaluation methods have been developed and utilized, thoracic radiography remains essential and is the top priority for diagnosing and managing cardiac diseases. Thoracic radiographic measurements associated with the vertebral heart scale (VHS) and caudal vena cava (CVC) can objectively diagnose cardiac disease in many animals. In particular, VHS measurement is primarily used to evaluate the dimensions of the heart size on thoracic radiographs and can measure cardiomegaly more objectively. Additionally, the value of the CVC compared with the aorta (Ao) and the length of vertebrae (VL) can be used as valuable parameters in right congestive heart failure. To describe the CVC/Ao and CVC/VL ratios in 10 long-tailed gorals (Naemorhedus caudatus) without subjective radiographic evidence of cardiac diseases. The VHS, CVC, Ao, and VL of gorals were measured in the right lateral (RL) view of the thoracic radiographs. In the RL view of 10 gorals, the VHS was 9.31 ± 0.55 vertebrae (v), the CVC/Ao ratio was 0.84 ± 0.13, and the CVC/VL ratio was 0.67 ± 0.09. Additionally, the thoracic morphology of gorals was determined to be intermediate (thoracic depth-to-width ratio, 1.04 ± 0.09, 0.75-1.25). This study confirmed that VHS was significantly correlated with CVC and Ao, and measuring and comparing each value would help diagnose cardiac diseases in gorals. The radiographic measurements in this study will allow veterinarians to diagnose several cardiac diseases in gorals.

• Journal of Forest and Environmental Science
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• 제39권1호
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• pp.1-12
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• 2023

To understand the health conditions and growth patterns of forest estate for environmental resilience and climate change mitigation, assessment of structure and species diversity is paramount. This study aimed at assessing the structure, alpha, and beta diversities of tree species in three ecological zones in Taraba, Nigeria for management purposes. In recent time, no research has been reported on the structure and beta diversity of the study areas. A systematic sampling design was used for data collection. Five sample plots of 50×50 m were laid in each of the six natural forest areas. The result showed a mean DBH (42.5 cm) and a tree height (15.0 m) from the forests. The forests have a structure of an inverse "J-shape," which is typical of natural forests in the tropics. The southern Guinea savanna zone had the highest mean Shannon-Weiner diversity index (2.8). The least beta diversity index (0.02) was between Baissa and Jen Gininya forest areas. Baissa and Bakin Dutse Protected Forest Areas (PFAs) contained 76.5% of the tree species. There is a high chance of all tree species to be found in these 2 forest areas. Proximity to a location influences how similar two tree species are, according to the least beta diversity index (0.02) recorded. The Federal Government's method of management for the forest, known as Gashaka Gumti National Park, may be responsible for the high beta diversity index in the Montane ecozone. Therefore, it should be strongly encouraged to practice strict oversight of natural areas, as their contributions to reducing climate change in Taraba State, Nigeria, cannot be overstated.

• Journal of Microbiology and Biotechnology
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• 제33권5호
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• pp.668-679
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• 2023

Edwardsiella tarda is one of the most significant fish pathogens, causes edwardsiellosis in a variety of freshwater fish species, and its antibiotic resistance against multiple drugs has made it a health risk worldwide. In this study, we aimed to investigate the antibiotic resistance (ABR) genes of E. tarda and establish its antibiotic susceptibility. Thus, 540 fish (299 Oreochromis niloticus, 138 O. mossambicus, and 103 O. aureus) were collected randomly from twelve fish farms in three districts of Punjab in Pakistan. E. tarda was recovered from 147 fish showing symptoms of exophthalmia, hemorrhages, skin depigmentation, ascites, and bacteria-filled nodules in enlarged liver and kidney. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing proved chloramphenicol, ciprofloxacin, and streptomycin effective, but amoxicillin, erythromycin, and flumequine ineffective in controlling edwardsiellosis. Maximum occurrence of qnrA, blaTEM, and sul3 genes of E. tarda was detected in 45% in the liver, 58%, and 42% respectively in the intestine; 46.5%, 67.2%, and 55.9% respectively in O. niloticus; 24%, 36%, and 23% respectively in summer with respect to fish organs, species, and season, respectively. Motility, H₂S, indole, methyl red, and glucose tests gave positive results. Overall, E. tarda infected 27.2% of fish, which ultimately caused 7.69% mortality. The Chi-squared test of independence showed a significant difference in the occurrence of ABR genes of E. tarda with respect to sampling sites. In conclusion, the misuse of antibacterial agents has led to the emergence of ABR genes in E. tarda, which in association with high temperatures cause multiple abnormalities in infected fish and ultimately resulting in massive mortality.

• Journal of Veterinary Science
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• 제24권4호
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• pp.59.1-59.13
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• 2023

Background: Rocuronium bromide has been evaluated as a mydriatic agent in birds, but the species applied were limited and the dose and effect were variable. Objective: This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of topical rocuronium bromide as mydriatics in 4 species according to horizontal palpebral fissure length: Feral pigeon (Columba livia), Common kestrel (Falco tinnunculus), Northern boobook (Ninox japonica), and Eurasian eagle owl (Bubo bubo). Methods: A total of 32 birds (8 for each species) were included as pre-releasing examination. Rocuronium bromide was instilled in one randomly selected eye of each bird based on palpebral fissure length criteria (0.5 mg/50 µL for pigeons, 1 mg/100 µL for kestrels and boobook owls, and 2 mg/200 µL for eagle owls). The contralateral eye was used as control and treated with normal saline. After instillation of the drug, pupil diameter, pupillary light reflex, intraocular pressure, heart rate, and respiratory rate were evaluated at 10 min intervals up to 180 min and at 30 min intervals up to 360 min. Results: Statistically significant mydriasis was obtained in all birds (p < 0.001). However, in boobook and eagle owls, marked mydriasis persisted until 360 min. Side effects including corneal erosion and lower eyelid paralysis were common, which was observed in 26/32 birds. Blepharospasm was also noted during this study. No systemic adverse signs were observed. Conclusions: Rocuronium bromide could be a good mydriatics option for 4 species of birds, however, further studies are needed to find lowest effective dose to reduce drug-related side effects.