Target Animal Species Research Articles

Toxicological evaluation of combination products containing imidacloprid, moxidectin and pyriproxyfen

The purpose of the research is to investigate subacute cutaneous toxicity in rats, allergenic properties in guinea pigs and tolerance of increased doses of drugs based on imidacloprid, moxidectin and pyriproxyfen by dogs and cats of different age groups.Materials and methods. Toxicological studies (subacute cutaneous toxicity, study of allergenic properties) were conducted in the vivarium of the All-Russian Research Institute of Plant Protection, a branch of the Federal Scientific Center for Experimental Veterinary Medicine of the Russian Academy of Sciences, on male rats and guinea pigs. Experiments on the tolerance of drugs by target animal species (dogs, cats) were conducted in the Podolsk department of the All-Russian Research Institute of Plant Protection. The choice of doses, frequency and methods of administration of the studied drugs were determined in accordance with the Guidelines for Experimental (Preclinical) Study of New Pharmacological Substances. All doses were calculated for the drug taking into account the density (1.08 g/cm3).Results and discussion. When studying the acute cutaneous toxicity of the drug on rats, LD50 exceeded the maximum possible dose of 10 000 mg/kg (hazard class 4 according to GOST 12.1.007-76). In a subacute experiment on rats, it was established that doses of 1000 and 500 mg/kg are ineffective (safe), the threshold and toxic doses could not be established. These drugs, when treating animals 8 times with an interval of 3 days in a three- and five-fold increase in the maximum therapeutic dose during the experimental period, did not have a negative effect on the general condition of the animals, their physiological status and behavior; no statistically significant changes in the morphological and biochemical parameters of the blood, physicochemical parameters of urine were noted in animals from the experimental groups compared to the control. However, in one adult dog from the second experimental group, which was used a five-fold increase in the maximum therapeutic dose of the drug, depression was noted on the 20th day of the experiment. The physiological state of the animal returned to normal within 24 hours voluntarily without the use of symptomatic therapy.

Therapeutic Efficacy of Baicalein Green Biomolecule in Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Murine Mastitis Model

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) mastitis poses a significant threat to dairy herds worldwide, given its resistance to methicillin and other β-lactam antibiotics, which often leads to treatment failure. Consequently, there is an urgent need for safe and effective alternative therapeutic approaches. Recent investigations have highlighted the potential of baicalein, a natural flavonoid known for its potent anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, especially its synergistic effects with β-lactam antibiotics against MRSA. However, the limited solubility and bioavailability of baicalein hinder its biomedical utility. The present study assessed the therapeutic efficacy of encapsulated baicalein in chitosan, forming a tricomplex with a β-lactam antibiotic, using a murine model of MRSA-induced mastitis. The experimental design comprised seven groups, each consisting of six mice. We evaluated the ability of various treatment regimens to mitigate histopathological alterations and bacterial burden induced by MRSA infection, aiming to elucidate underlying mechanisms. Our results revealed that tricomplex treatment significantly reduced bacterial load in mammary tissue and preserved tissue integrity, resulting in decreased inflammatory responses post-MRSA inoculation. In addition, tricomplex treatment markedly reduced mean leukocyte and neutrophil counts in blood and suppressed the matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) concentration and C-reactive protein (CRP) response. Notably, the synergistic interaction between baicalein and amoxicillin was particularly pronounced. Our findings suggest that chitosan-encapsulated baicalein combined with a β-lactam antibiotic holds promise as a therapeutic option for MRSA-induced mastitis. Further investigations, particularly in target animal species, are warranted to comprehensively evaluate its clinical feasibility.

Evaluation of long-term immune response in cattle to botulism using a recombinant E. coli bacterin formulated with Montanide™ ISA 50 and aluminum hydroxide adjuvants

Botulism is a severe disease caused by potent botulinum neurotoxins (BoNTs) produced by Clostridium botulinum. This disease is associated with high-lethality outbreaks in cattle, which have been linked to the ingestion of preformed BoNT serotypes C and D, emphasizing the need for effective vaccines. The potency of current commercial toxoids (formaldehyde-inactivated BoNTs) is assured through tests in guinea pigs according to government regulatory guidelines, but their short-term immunity raises concerns. Recombinant vaccines containing the receptor-binding domain have demonstrated potential for eliciting robust protective immunity. Previous studies have demonstrated the safety and effectiveness of recombinant E. coli bacterin, eliciting high titers of neutralizing antibodies against C. botulinum and C. perfringens in target animal species. In this study, neutralizing antibody titers in cattle and the long-term immune response against BoNT/C and D were used to assess the efficacy of the oil-based adjuvant compared with that of the aluminum hydroxide adjuvant in cattle. The vaccine formulation containing Montanide™ ISA 50 yielded significantly higher titers of neutralizing antibody against BoNT/C and D (8.64 IU/mL and 9.6 IU/mL, respectively) and induced an immune response that lasted longer than the response induced by aluminum, extending between 30 and 60 days. This approach represents a straightforward, cost-effective strategy for recombinant E. coli bacterin, enhancing both the magnitude and duration of the immune response to botulism.

АНАЛИЗ АНТИРАБИЧЕСКИХ ПРОТИВОЭПИЗООТИЧЕСКИХ МЕРОПРИЯТИЙ СРЕДИ СИНАНТРОПНЫХ ЖИВОТНЫХ

Rabies (Rabies, Lyssa, Hydrophobia) is a particularly dangerous viral infection, belongs to natural focal zooanthroponoses, manifests itself with acute meningoencephalitis, has an absolute lethality. Foxes are the ecological host of the rabies virus and the primary source of infection for subjects of anthropurgical affiliation in Central Russia, including the Volga region. For this reason, in recent years, less attention has been paid to synanthropic animals in anti-labor measures. The aim of the study was to analyze anti-rabies antiepizootic measures among synanthropic animals. The primary data for this study was epizootic information on the species composition of vaccinated animals against rabies, as well as the number of captured neglected animals susceptible to rabies virus in the Saratov region in the period from 2019 to 2023. An analysis of data on anti-rabies vaccination showed that 1151657 synanthropic animals were vaccinated in 2019, 110637 animals in 2020, and 129 267 animals were vaccinated in 2021. In 2022, 136061 animals were vaccinated, in 2023 123488 animals were vaccinated. Dogs predominate among vaccinated animals. This is due to the fact that dogs are the target animal species in urban rabies eradication programs. In 2020, 1,379 individuals of animals without owners were captured on the territory of the Saratov region, in 2021 – 2,151 individuals of neglected animals, in 2022 – 2,734 individuals. The largest number of animals without owners was captured in 2023, which amounted to 7,458 individuals.

Родентициди як основа дератизації: загальна характеристика, класифікація, механізми дії, особливості застосування та перспективи (огляд літературних даних)

The aim of work is to analyze the current state of the use of rodenticides to control rodents in various areas of human activity, as well as prospects for improving rodenticides. Materials and methods of research: bibliosemantic, bibliographic and analytical methods of research. The research materials were foreign research articles. Research results and discussion. Various methods are used around the world to directly control rodent populations or reduce the damage caused by them. These methods include physical (traps, barriers), chemical (toxic baits, fumigants, repellents), biological/cultural (resistant plants, crop type, sanitation, habitat manipulation). The use of chemicals for rodent control has been practiced for almost a century and is common today. Most rodenticides used today are anticoagulants, which prevent blood clotting. The biological effectiveness of rodent control is determined not only by the toxicity of the rodenticide drug, but also by many other conditions that are closely related to the biological characteristics of the development of rodents. All rodenticides are enteric drugs. The mechanism of toxic effects of drugs in this group is different and is determined by the active substances on the basis of which they are made. The article presents various approaches to the classification of rodenticides and describes the ways of their impact on target and non-target animal species. The risk and toxicity of the most commonly used rodenticides, which have different chemical compositions and can have a wide range of clinical manifestations, are also assessed. The amount of bait that constitutes a lethal dose depends on the toxicity of the poison and the severity of the person. Conclusion: among the prospects for the further use of rodenticides, the leading place is occupied by the development of an “ideal rodenticide”, highly toxic to rodents in small quantities, non-toxic to non-target species and allows to avoid fear of the bait in rodents and, accordingly, rejection of it.

FACTORS AFFECTING THE WITHDRAWAL PERIOD OF AMOXICILLIN FROM VETERINARY MEDICINAL PRODUCTS USED IN FOOD-PRODUCING ANIMALS

The withdrawal period of active substance residues from the animal’s body which products are intended for human consumption is an important criterion for the safety of veterinary medicinal products. This products cannot be authorized without establishing this important parameter. There are a number of veterinary medicinal products on the market of Ukraine and EU member states, which have the same active substance in the same concentration and pharmaceutical formulation, but the withdrawal period can differ significantly.
 The goal of our study was to determine the influence of various factors on the withdrawal period of amoxicillin from single-component oral (powders) and injectable (suspensions, long acting suspensions) dosage forms, which are included in the State Register of Veterinary Medicines of Ukraine and EU product database (UPD).
 As is known, amoxicillin is widely used for the treatment of infectious diseases in humans and animals, in particular food-producing ones, which are a source of food products intended for human consumption. From the point of the hazard of development acquired antimicrobial resistance when consuming products of animal origin contaminated with residues, the duration of the established withdrawal period is a question of great importance.
 As shown in the study results, the pharmacokinetic parameters of veterinary medicinal products, in particular bioavailability, as well as clinical characteristics of the disease, have a significant impact on the duration of the withdrawal period. Usually, the withdrawal period depends on the type of dosage form, and the amount and nature of excipients, because oral and injectable pharmaceutical formulations of the same veterinary medicinal product differ in terms of bioavailability from the systemic circulation and the site of injection. It was also defined that the duration of the withdrawal period depends on the amount of the administered dose of the veterinary medicinal product, the treatment duration, the target animal species, fasting conditions (before or after feeding), and the substrates used for feeding (dissolving in water or mixing with feed), analytical methods used to determine active substances or their metabolites, methods of the statistical processing results and differences between individual values established in a group of animals involved in the study.
 The importance of approving the withdrawal period for generic veterinary medicinal products manufactured by different companies is confirmed by studies carried out by the European Medicines Agency order at the request of the Competent authorities of individual EU countries in connection with the detection of the overestimated residue level compared with the established maximum limits over time, defined as the withdrawal period specified during product authorization.
 In two cases, changes were made to the Summary of Product Characteristics and package leaflets, regarding the extension of the withdrawal period of amoxicillin from certain tissues and for different target animal species. Marketing authorization holders are recommended to harmonize the withdrawal period for generic products with the established value for the reference veterinary medicinal products.

Clinical experience with the use and efficacy evaluation of new Insacar Total C Plus for dogs and Insacar Total K Plus for cats

The purpose of the researchis to study the efficacy of new multicomponent drugs for dogs and cats against arachnoentomosis and helminthosis.Materials and methods. The efficacy of new four-component Insacar Total C Plus Drops for Dogs and Insacar Total K Plus Drops for Cats was studied on target animal species. The experiment included 90 dogs and 82 cats including 38 dogs and 37 cats with monoinfection by ticks (Sarcoptes canis,Demodex canis,Notoedres cati,Otodectes cynotis, family Ixodidae), 39 dogs and 31 cats with monoinfection by insects (Ctenocephalidessp.,Linognathus setosus, Trichodectes canis), 13 dogs and 14 cats with infection by helminths (Toxocara canis, T. cati, Toxascaris leonina, Taeniasp.), and 13 dogs and 10 cats with mixed infections. The drug was applied to the skin of the animals in dosages as specified in the instructions for use. The therapy effectiveness was monitored on days 14 and 28, and in case ofNotoedres catiandSarcoptes canis, on day 40.Results and discussion.The efficacy of multicomponent drugs against monoinfections with insects, ixodid ticks, ticks of the genus Demodex and helminths, as well as mixed infections of the dogs and cats was 100% in clinical studies. The efficacy in the cats with notoedric mange was 80%, and 83.4% in the dogs with sarcoptic mange. The advantage of four-component Insacar Total C Plus Drops for Dogs and Insacar Total K Plus Drops for Cats is the presence of several components, namely, imidacloprid, praziquantel, pyriproxyfen, and moxidectin. The unique combination of active ingredients ensures the efficacy of drugs against external and internal parasites including ixodid ticks, and preventive efficacy against entomosis and ixodid ticks for 30 days. The drops for dogs and cats are advisable against mixed infections.

In vitro and in vivo anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and pharmacokinetic properties of baicalein

Baicalein is a bioactive flavone originally isolated from the roots of Scutellaria baicalensis, Scutellariala teriflora and Oroxylum indicum. The in vitro and in vivo anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties of baicalein and pharmacokinetics after its single intramuscular administration were studied in Wistar rats. The in vitro anti-inflammatory activity of baicalein (10, 50 and 100 µM) was tested for its ability to inhibit the COX-2 enzyme by measuring PGE2 levels and determination of nitric oxide (NO) production in lipopolysaccharide (LPS) treated RAW 264.7 macrophage cells, in which baicalein was found to have significant inhibition of NO and PGE2 production in RAW 264.7 macrophage cells as compared with the LPS control group. The in vivo anti-inflammatory activity of baicalein (200 mg/kg) was assessed using the carrageenan-induced rat paw oedema model, following intramuscular injection. A significant percentage of inhibition of oedema volume was observed when compared with the carrageenan control group. In vitro and in vivo antibacterial activities of baicalein were determined by the micro broth dilution technique and neutropenic rat thigh infection model, wherein baicalein did not show any antibacterial property. Concentrations of baicalein were determined in rat plasma by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) after a single intramuscular administration at a dose of 200 mg/kg body weight, in which the mean peak plasma drug concentration (Cmax) of 0.77 ± 0.02 μg/mL was achieved at 0.08 h. The mean elimination half-life (t½β), the apparent volume of distribution (Vd(area)), total body clearance (Cl(B)) and mean residence time (MRT) were observed as 0.63 ± 0.06 h, 601.03 ± 28.18 L/kg, 677.39 ± 35.36 L/h/kg and 0.76 ± 0.06 h, respectively. Conclusively, in the present study, baicalein did not show in vitro or in vivo antibacterial property, but proved to have good anti-inflammatory activity. The available anti-inflammatory drugs have proved to have side effects in veterinary and human therapeutics. In this situation, baicalein may become an effective alternative to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and should also be studied in target animal species. Further research should be carried out to improve the solubility and bioavailability of baicalein through injectable routes.

A systematic review of DNA-based methods in authentication of game and less common meat species.

Despite the numerous studies on food safety and authenticity, especially for meat and meat products, not enough studies have been conducted focusing exclusively on game species and other unusual meat animals. As a result of the European horse scandal, the horse is currently the target of many meat authenticity studies. With this review, we aim to present various DNA-based methods that have been used by researchers to identify, detect, and quantify game, uncommon meat animals, and wildlife species. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is considered the standard method for DNA analysis in meat authenticity testing. However, in this paper, we present several other methods that may or may not involve the PCR technique. For this purpose, we systematically reviewed 131 articles selected according to various criteria such as target animal species, method of analysis, year of publication, and so forth. The result of our study shows the most studied game and uncommon meat species, PCR- and non-PCR-based methods for game meat analysis, and DNA-based methods in wildlife conservation. With this study, researchers can find detailed information about frequent game species used as adulterants for regular meat products and the DNA-based techniques to identify them.

Risks of SARS-CoV-2 transmission between free-ranging animals and captive mink in the Netherlands.

In the Netherlands, 69 of the 126 (55%) mink farms in total became infected with SARS‐CoV‐2 in 2020. Despite strict biosecurity measures and extensive epidemiological investigations, the main transmission route remained unclear. A better understanding of SARS‐CoV‐2 transmission between mink farms is of relevance for countries where mink farming is still common practice and can be used as a case study to improve future emerging disease preparedness. We assessed whether SARS‐CoV‐2 spilled over from mink to free‐ranging animals, and whether free‐ranging animals may have played a role in farm‐to‐farm transmission in the Netherlands. The study encompassed farm visits, farm questionnaires, expert workshops and SARS‐CoV‐2 RNA and antibody testing of samples from target animal species (bats, birds and free‐ranging carnivores). In this study, we show that the open housing system of mink allowed access to birds, bats and most free‐ranging carnivores, and that direct and indirect contact with mink was likely after entry, especially for free‐ranging carnivores and birds. This allowed SARS‐CoV‐2 exposure to animals entering the mink farm, and subsequent infection or mechanical carriage by the target animal species. Moreover, mink can escape farms in some cases, and two SARS‐CoV‐2‐positive mink were found outside farm premises. No other SARS‐CoV‐2‐RNA‐positive free‐ranging animals were detected, suggesting there was no abundant circulation in the species tested during the study period. To investigate previous SARS‐CoV‐2 infections, SARS‐CoV‐2 antibody detection using lung extracts of carcasses was set up and validated. One tested beech marten did have SARS‐CoV‐2 antibodies, but the closest SARS‐CoV‐2‐infected mink farm was outside of its home range, making infection at a mink farm unlikely. Knowing that virus exchange between different species and the formation of animal reservoirs affects SARS‐CoV‐2 evolution, continued vigilance and monitoring of mink farms and surrounding wildlife remains vital.

Phytotherapeutic treatments of gynecological diseases and fertility disorders in cattle - a veterinary historical analysis

Fertility problems are the main reasons for culling dairy cows. Diseases of the female genital tract are also often the cause of antibiotic or hormonal treatments in bovine practices. The use of medicinal plants could expand the available therapeutics. The aim of the work was to analyze historical literature before the introduction of antibiotics in veterinary reproductive medicine. Five books in German language, published in Germany and Switzerland between 1878 and 1921, and one handwritten therapy booklet by the rural veterinarian Carl Ammann-Honegger (1879-1960) were systematically examined regarding the descriptions (AW) on gynecological diseases. The herbal and additional ingredients of the recipe, the target animal species, the type of administration and the indication were recorded in detail for each AW. The six literature sources contained a total of 103 AW (79 administered orally, 13 locally, and 11 both orally and locally). Almost two thirds of the AW (61) were based on a mixture of different plants (two to seven plants), and one third of the AW (31) on a single plant. A total of 55 plants were recorded. The most frequently mentioned medical plants were plants of the genus Juniperus (J. communis L. (19 AW), J. sabina L. (13 AW)) and Linum usitatissimum L. (18 AW), Matricaria chamomilla L. (13 AW) and Gentiana lutea L. (12 AW). The treatment of the Retentio secundinarum was the most frequently mentioned indication (44 AW), followed by parturition preparation (17 AW) and endometritis treatment (15 AW). The most frequently recorded plants can be divided based on their ingredients and their effect into (a) energy- and protein-rich forage plants, (b) generally appetizing, digestive- and metabolism-enhancing plants, (c) medical plants with a specific gynecological organotrophic effect and (d) according to current knowledge, predominantly toxic plants. Besides the antimicrobial active immunity to defence against bacterial infections, a stable barrier funcion of the endometrium contributes to uterine health. The plants classified under (a) - (c) have at least the potential for a positive effect on the immune system and the endometrial barrier function and thus contribute indirectly to the uterine health.

The user safety assessment of a selenized yeast feed additive

Purpose: Of the several selenized yeasts authorised for use as feed additives in the EU, Saccharomyces cerevisiae CNCM I-3060 inactivated’ (Sel-Plex®), was the first to be approved for use, in 2006. The additive has a concentration of selenium between 2000 and 2400 mg/kg and a selenomethionine content greater than 63%. Previous toxicological and safety studies have shown Sel-Plex® to be safe for use for target animal species, consumers, users and the environment. A new formulation of Sel-Plex® was recently developed however, with a minimum selenium content of 3000 mg/kg. The increase in selenium in this product, Sel-Plex® 3000, presented the need to assess the risk for workers and users and to establish if there would be any eye and/or skin irritancy and skin sensitisation effects associated with the product. The purpose of this paper is to present the methodology and results of the user safety skin and eye studies performed on Sel-Plex® 3000. Materials & Methods: In vitro skin and eye models were used to assess skin and eye irritancy, while skin sensitisation was examined using an in vivo method. The acute eye irritation was evaluated using a Reconstructed human Cornea-like Epithelium (RhCE) model, which followed the OECD guideline 492. The skin irritation was assessed based on its ability to induce cell death in a commercial reconstructed human epidermis (RhE) model (EPISKIN™) according to the OECD Guideline No. 439. The skin sensitising potential was evaluated in the Guinea pig in line with OECD Guideline 406, and measured the extent and degree of skin reaction to a challenge exposure following previous topical exposure of a substance on the skin. Results: The skin and eye irritation test results showed that Sel-Plex® 3000 was a non-irritant in both cases. The skin sensitisation study showed that the additive did not generate a sensitisation response in the guinea pig and should not be considered a skin sensitiser. Conclusion: These results indicate that Sel-Plex® 3000 is safe to use for workers in an industrial setting when handling the product and the studies may be further used to support regulatory compliance in respective markets.

Density estimations of the Asiatic black bear: application of the random encounter model

ABSTRACT It is difficult to assess the population status of large terrestrial carnivores due to their low density. Recently adopted camera-trap techniques allow us to investigate many aspects of animal ecology and conservation and are widely used in wildlife population estimation. In this study, we applied the random encounter model (REM) to estimate the density of Asiatic black bears (Ursus thibetanus) in Shirakawa Village, Gifu Prefecture, Japan, from May to October 2018. We installed 24 sensor cameras in the study area. Movement speeds of seven global positioning system (GPS)-collared bears were tracked from 2008 to 2018. The population density of bears in Shirakawa Village was estimated to be 0.55 bears/km2. To apply the REM method to Asiatic black bears, we recommend (1) installing more than 30 or 40 sensor cameras and implementing the REM method in a period of 3 weeks before the late summer season (i.e. late August), after the completion of the hibernation period and when a closed population is easily maintained; and (2) correcting the distance moved by the target animal species when using GPS telemetry with a low fixed interval.

What can we learn from past and recent Bavarian knowledge for the future development of European veterinary herbal medicine? An ethnoveterinary study

Ethnopharmacological relevanceWhile the interest in finding medical solutions for the worldwide antibiotics crisis is rising, the legal possibility of simplified authorization of herbal veterinary medicinal products is dwindling.An important basis for both the preservation and development of knowledge in veterinary herbal medicine are pharmacological and clinical studies on the performance of herbal remedies, based on historical written sources on the treatment of farm animals with medicinal plants, as well as current ethnoveterinary research.Nevertheless, there is only limited systematic ethnoveterinary research in Europe, with the exceptions of the Mediterranean region, Switzerland and Austria. We conducted a survey on the ethnoveterinary knowledge of farmers in Bavaria, and analyzed two regional historical textbooks. Aim of the studyWe documented the local veterinary knowledge about livestock in Bavaria based upon local historical textbooks and upon ethnoveterinary interviews to discover opportunities for the future development of European veterinary herbal medicine. Material and methodsIn 2018/2019 we conducted 77 semi-structured interviews with 101 farmers from different types of farms. Detailed information about homemade herbal remedies (plant species, plant part, manufacturing process, source of knowledge) and the corresponding use reports (target animal species, category of use, route of administration, dosage, source of knowledge, frequency of use, last time of use and farmers’ satisfaction) were collected. To compare our data with the literature, the use reports of two local historical textbooks were analyzed and compared with the data from the interviews. Results716 homemade remedy reports (HRs) for altogether 884 use reports (URs) were documented in this study. We picked the 363 HRs that consisted of a single plant species with or without other natural products (HSHRs) for a deeper analysis. These HSHRs were prepared from 108 plant species that belonged to 57 botanical families.The most URs were documented for the families of: Asteraceae, Linaceae and Urticaceae. Calendula officinalis L. (Asteraceae), Linum usitatissimum L. (Linaceae) and Urtica dioica L. (Urticaceae) were the most often documented single species. A total of 448 URs were gathered for the 363 HSHRs. The largest number of URs was for treatments of gastrointestinal disorders and metabolic dysfunctions, followed by skin alterations and sores.For nearly half of the URs the source of knowledge was family and friends. For 80 URs the source of knowledge was different from that of the corresponding HSHRs. For 68% of the URs farmers mentioned at least one use during the last 5 years. Half of the plant species that were mentioned in the historical literature were also mentioned in URs by the interviewees. ConclusionIn Bavaria, medicinal plants are actively used by farmers to treat their livestock with a high level of satisfaction. The knowledge is not passed on from generation to generation in a purely static way, but is dynamically developed by the users in almost one fifth of the URs. Ethnoveterinary research combined with data from regional historical textbooks may facilitate pharmacological and clinical studies in veterinary medicine, and the discussion about a simplified registration for traditional herbal veterinary medicinal products.

An ethnoveterinary study of wild medicinal plants used by the Kyrgyz farmers

Ethnopharmacological relevanceIn their centuries-old nomadic life, since their livestock was the backbone of their lives, the Kyrgyz people used a variety of wild medicinal plants for ethnoveterinary practices. However, the plants used for the treatment of livestock ailments never have been recorded, except rarely in local publications. In this study, we present the HSHR (homemade single species herbal remedy reports), their methods of preparation and application, and the livestock ailments for which these remedies were used. AimsThe collect data from the five different high-altitude valleys of the Kyrgyz Republic on common HSHR used for the treatment of the livestock ailments and describe their preparation procedure, administration, and target animal species. Materials and methodsThe plant species mentioned for ethnoveterinary use were collected from five different high-altitude valleys (pastures) in the Kyrgyz Republic during 2016 and 2018. Data were gathered with the help of dialog partners (experienced local shepherds, farmers and veterinarians) through semi-structured interviews. In total, 166 dialog partners were interviewed. The special characteristics of HSHR mentioned for ethnoveterinary use and practices were documented. Plant samples and voucher specimens were collected for taxonomic identification, and preserved for future reference. ResultsA total of 2388 HSHR referred to 66 plant species mentioned for ethnoveterinary use belonging to 27 families and 49 genera. According to the data, species of the family Asteraceae were most frequently used HSHRs in the Kyrgyz ethnoveterinary practice (599 HSHR, 25%), followed by Polygonaceae (166 HSHR, 7%), Lamiaceae (141 HSHR, 6%), Ranunculaceae (121 HSHR, 5%), Nitrariaceae (119 HSHR, 4.9%), Apiaceae (113 HSHR, 4.7%), Cupressaceae (111 HSHR, 4.6%), Urticaceae (100 HSHR, 4.2%), Gentianaceae (92 HSHR, 3.8%), Amaranthaceae (87 HSHR, 3.6%). A total of 2785 UR (use reports) were collected for the 2388 HSHR. Infection diseases (572 UR, 20.5%), parasitic diseases (531 UR, 19%), gastrointestinal disorders (523 UR, 18.77%) and wounds (522 UR, 18.74%) were almost evenly reported indications. The largest number use reports (UR) were for cattle (967 UR, 34.7%) and horses (919 UR, 33%), followed by 607 UR (21.8%) for sheep and 292 UR (10.48%) for other domestic animals, including dogs (106 UR, 3.8%), goats (103 UR, 3.69%) and donkeys (83 UR, 2.98%). ConclusionIn this study, we identified the folk ethnoveterinary knowledge of the HSHR used by the Kyrgyz farmers in their daily veterinary practice. All the characterized HSHR are of value to the local animal breeders. This knowledge has previously been limited to local shepherds, farmers and vets. Many of these need scientific confirmation using modern methods of phytochemistry and pharmacology.

Use of tetracyclines and sulfonamides for the treatment of infectious diseases in animals

The use of antimicrobial medicines in human and veterinary medicine has led to the problem of the development of acquired antimicrobial resistance, which causes a global threat. Were described principles of tetracyclines and sulfonamides use, which are the most common among antimicrobial substances in veterinary medicinal products for the treatment of infectious diseases of food-producing and domestic animals.
 The aim. To substantiate the clinical relevance of antimicrobial veterinary medicinal products containing tetracyclines and sulfonamides+trimethoprim in veterinary medicine.
 Materials and methods. Research materials: sales reports of antimicrobial veterinary medicinal products in Ukraine for 2015–2019, EU countries, and the USA. Methods used: written and electronic survey; bibliosemantic, analytical and generalization.
 Results and discussion. As a result of the annual monitoring for 2015–2019 sales volumes in Ukraine, it was determined that tetracyclines (29.5–37.91 %) and sulfonamides + trimethoprim (12.1–18.7 %) were most often used in the composition of veterinary medicines. The same trend regarding the use of these classes of antimicrobials exists in many countries around the world. Factors determining the clinical relevance of these groups of substances are based on the criteria for their selection.
 The principle proposed by the EMA for the choice of antimicrobial veterinary medicinal products is based on the following criteria: categories of target animal species; treatment indications; the route of administration; the type of pharmaceutical formulation; the choice of a dosage regimen. Following this principle was substantiated the feasibility of tetracyclines and sulfonamides+trimethoprim use in veterinary medicine.
 By pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic parameters evaluated the rationality of the choice of antimicrobial veterinary medicines.
 Conclusions. The study revealed clinical efficacy and safety of tetracyclines and sulfonamides+trimethoprim as Veterinary Critically Important Antimicrobial Agents of Category D “Prudence”

Predicting disease occurrence of cabbage Verticillium wilt in monoculture using species distribution modeling.

BackgroundAlthough integrated pest management (IPM) is essential for conservation agriculture, this method can be inadequate for severely infected fields. The ability to predict the potential occurrence of severe infestation of soil-borne disease would enable farmers to adopt suitable methods for high-risk areas, such as soil disinfestation, and apply other options for lower risk areas. Recently, researchers have used species distribution modeling (SDM) to predict the occurrence of target plant and animal species based on various environmental variables. In this study, we applied this technique to predict and map the occurrence probability of a soil-borne disease, Verticillium wilt, using cabbage as a case study.MethodsA disease survey assessing the distribution of Verticillium wilt in cabbage fields in Tsumagoi village (central Honshu, Japan) was conducted two or three times annually from 1997 to 2013. Road density, elevation and topographic wetness index (TWI) were selected as explanatory variables for disease occurrence potential. A model of occurrence probability of Verticillium wilt was constructed using the MaxEnt software for SDM analysis. As the disease survey was mainly conducted in an agricultural area, the area was weighted as “Bias Grid” and area except for the agricultural area was set as background.ResultsGrids with disease occurrence showed a high degree of coincidence with those with a high probability occurrence. The highest contribution to the prediction of disease occurrence was the variable road density at 97.1%, followed by TWI at 2.3%, and elevation at 0.5%. The highest permutation importance was road density at 93.0%, followed by TWI at 7.0%, while the variable elevation at 0.0%. This method of predicting disease probability occurrence can help with disease monitoring in areas with high probability occurrence and inform farmers about the selection of control measures.

The Role of Disinsection and Deratization in the Framework of Non-Specific Prophylaxis of Diseases among the Population in Natural Plague Foci in the Territory of the CIS Countries

Natural foci of plague – a particularly dangerous transmissible zoonotic disease – are widely spread across the world, including in the territory of Russia and a number of neighboring countries in Central Asia. Between 2000 and 2019, 28339 cases of plague were registered in 21 states around the world; lethality rates reached 8 %. Active plague manifestations are associated with the increase in the abundance of carriers and vectors of the disease, which increases the risk of human infection. Prophylactic measures against plague are aimed at prevention and eradication of epidemic foci; they incorporate a whole complex (system) of activities. Disinsection and deratization remain the most radical of them. Control of the numbers of carriers and vectors of plague involves decrement up to the levels at which epizooties will not develop, they are suppressed and liquidated. Currently in the Russian Federation and CIS countries, the focus is on the field and community disinsection when planning and performing exterminatory interventions. The decrease in the numbers of fleas – carriers and vectors of plague microbe – results in disruption of epizootic process and, consequently, in provision of epidemiological welfare as regards this dangerous disease. Insecticide treatments in natural biotopes are carried out using powder-like or aerosolized products, the class of pyrethroids, organophosphorous compounds and phenylpyrazoles by means of advanced equipment: knapsack dusters, power operated air blowers, and foggers. Within the boundaries of residential areas wet disinsection is performed with the help of spraying devices. Field deratization is allowed upon epidemiological grounds only, in localized territories of epizooties, within the boundaries of the settlements of plague infected carriers. Zinc phosphide- or anticoagulant-based bait products are used as rodenticides. Therewith, the eradication of valuable animal species, rare species of small mammals and endemic species is prohibited. Community deratization is always accompanied by the community disinsection. When planning and carrying out insecticide and rodenticide treatments the priority is given to the safety of handling the chemical preparations, to the exclusion of the negative effect on target animal species.

Tolerability Profile of Antiparasitic Drug «Gelmintal Mini Syrup» Administered as a Single and Repeated Dose to Target Animal Species

The purpose of the research is studying the tolerability profile of drug» Gelmintal Mini Syrup» based on toltrazuril and moxidectin in therapeutic and increased doses administered once and repeatedly to target animal species. Materials and methods. The experiments were carried out on 45 cats and kittens, and 45 dogs and puppies. In each experiment, the animals were divided according to the principle of analogy into three groups of 5 animals each. In the first experiment, the drug was administered once in two- and 5-fold increased doses; and the animals were followed-up for 30 days. In the second experiment, the drug was used daily for 7 days in therapeutic and 3-fold increased therapeutic doses; and the animals were followed-up for 15 days. During the experiments, we recorded the animals’ general condition, behavior and appetite, monitored their body weight and temperature, and collected blood and urine to study a number of parameters that characterize the physiological state of experimental animals. Results and discussion. «Gelmintal Mini Syrup» in therapeutic and increased doses administered once and repeatedly does not adversely affect the general condition of cats and dogs. Hematological, biochemical and urological values were within the physiological range.

Plant and natural product based homemade remedies for veterinary uses by the Peul community in Benin

Ethnopharmacological relevanceAcross Africa, Peul community typically rely on plant-based veterinary knowledge to manage common livestock health problems. Unfortunately, their nomadic life-style being affected by conflicts, land tenure constraints, and drought, they have been shifting to a sedentary life. The process of their settlement led to the erosion of the vast ethnoveterinary skills they had acquired over centuries and forced them to replace the plant and other species they used by commercial products. Aim of the study1) To collect comprehensive data from the Benin Peul community on common plant-based remedies used to treat livestock diseases and document their preparation and administration. 2) To evaluate the differences and consensus among the Peul community across ecological regions in Benin. Materials and methodsWe conducted semi-structured interviews among 88 Peul camps, three (03) bioclimatic zones, and 225 transhumant dialog partners, including agro-pastoralists, healers and pastoralists from mid-July to end of December 2015. Detailed information about homemade herbal remedies (plant species, plant part, manufacturing process) and the corresponding use reports (target animal species, category of use and route of administration) was collected. ResultsA total of 418 homemade remedies were reported, of which 235 involved only one plant species (Homemade Single Species Herbal Remedy Reports; HSHR). Information on a total of 310 use reports (UR) were mentioned for the 235 HSHR, and they included 116 plant species belonging to 39 botanical families. Among them, 229 UR were indicated for cattle, 43 UR for poultry, and 38 UR for sheep and goats. The most cited plant species were Khaya senegalensis (19 HSHR; 8.08%), Parkia biglobosa (14 HSHR; 5.95%), Euphorbia unispina (11 HSHR; 4.68%), and Anogeissus leiocarpus (6 HSHR; 2.55%). The URs were indicated for the treatment of viral, parasitic and bacterial diseases but also for multifactorial disorders like diarrhoea, fever, threatened abortion, agalactia etc. The number of plants referred to HSHR decreased from Sudanian to Guineo-congolian zones in concordance with the presence of Peuls. ConclusionThe Peul community holds a huge ethnoveterinary knowledge, which needs to be documented, valorised, and promoted. It appears vital to assess phytochemical and pharmacological properties of the most reported species, and their availability across the ecological zones in order to ensure their sustainable use and before this indigenous knowledge disappears completely.