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Japanese encephalitis (JE) is vector-borne zoonotic disease which causes encephalitis in humans and horses. Clinical signs for Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) infection are not clearly evident in the majority of affected animals. In Malaysia, information on the prevalence of JEV infection has not been established. Thus, a cross-sectional study was conducted during two periods, December 2015 to January 2016 and March to August in 2016, to determine the prevalence and risk factors in JEV infections among animals and birds in Peninsular Malaysia. Serum samples were harvested from the 416 samples which were collected from the dogs, cats, water birds, village chicken, jungle fowls, long-tailed macaques, domestic pigs, and cattle in the states of Selangor, Perak, Perlis, Kelantan, and Pahang. The serum samples were screened for JEV antibodies by commercial IgG ELISA kits. A questionnaire was also distributed to obtain information on the animals, birds, and the environmental factors of sampling areas. The results showed that dogs had the highest seropositive rate of 80% (95% CI: ± 11.69) followed by pigs at 44.4% (95% CI: ± 1.715), cattle at 32.2% (95% CI: ± 1.058), birds at 28.9% (95% CI: ± 5.757), cats at 15.6% (95% CI: ± 7.38), and monkeys at 14.3% (95% CI: ± 1.882). The study also showed that JEV seropositivity was high in young animals and in areas where mosquito vectors and migrating birds were prevalent.

Capon is the surgical removal of testes from roosters which promotes the accumulation of intramuscular fat and affects fatty acid composition of poultry meat. We report effect of caponization on muscle, liver and adipose tissue fatty acid composition, lipid peroxidation and cholesterol content in breast muscle of broilers. Groups of 30 male 1-d old commercial Cobb 500 broilers were caponized at 21 days of age. Controls were 30 intact birds. Each treatment group consisted of 6 replicates (cages) with 5 birds in each cage. Broilers were fed commercial feed and slaughtered at 40 days. Major fatty acids in breast muscle and adipose tissue were oleic (C18:1, n-9), palmitic (C16:0) and linoleic (C18:2, n-6) and stearic (C18:0). Caponization did not affect fatty acid composition of muscle, liver or adipose tissues or lipid peroxidation of meat. However, we did find lower (P < 0.018) cholesterol (0.66 ± 0.02mg/ml) in breast muscle from caponized birds (n=9) compared with 9 intact controls (0.77 ± 0.04mg/ml). Our findings suggest that caponization does not affect free fatty acid composition or lipid peroxidation but may reduce cholesterol in tissues of broilers.

Japanese encephalitis (JE) is a vector-borne zoonotic disease caused by the Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV). It causes encephalitis in human and horses, and may lead to reproductive failure in sows. The first human encephalitis case in Malaya (now Malaysia) was reported during World War II in a British prison in 1942. Later, encephalitis was observed among race horses in Singapore. In 1951, the first JEV was isolated from the brain of an encephalitis patient. The true storyline of JE exposure among humans and animals has not been documented in Malaysia. In some places such as Sarawak, JEV has been isolated from mosquitoes before an outbreak in 1992. JE is an epidemic in Malaysia except Sarawak. There are four major outbreaks reported in Pulau Langkawi (1974), Penang (1988), Perak and Negeri Sembilan (1998–1999), and Sarawak (1992). JE is considered endemic only in Sarawak. Initially, both adults and children were victims of JE in Malaysia, however, according to the current reports; JE infection is only lethal to children in Malaysia. This paper describes a timeline of JE cases (background of each case) from first detection to current status, vaccination programs against JE, diagnostic methods used in hospitals and factors which may contribute to the transmission of JE among humans and animals in Malaysia.

Avian polyomavirus (APV) primarily affects young birds and can cause mortality in a wide range of psittacine birds. This is the first study to detect the presence of APV in Malaysia. A total of 85 faecal samples were collected from symptom-free psittacines species from four different breeders in the Klang Valley. Upon genomic DNA extraction, the presence of APV was analysed by PCR using primers APVfull-AF (5'- ACAATGCCTAACGGAACGCC-3') and APVfull-AR (5'-CACCGAAGCGGCGATACTATA-3'). Positive results of 3 kbp PCR amplicon were detected in six out of the 30 samples (20%), which were from yellow-collared macaws, blue-headed parrots, red-crowned macaws, sulphur-crested cockatoos, blue-throated macaws, and Pesquet's parrots. As a conclusion, the prevalence of APV was clearly indicated.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the presence of fungal organisms in the pigeon droppings in selected areas in Hulu Langat & Kuala Langat, Selangor. The study demonstrated that pigeon droppings can be the platform for fungal growth and flourish. The fungal infection poses a significant public health threat as it can affect immunocompetent individuals and animals. Fifty samples of fresh pigeon droppings were obtained from exotic pigeons at the sampling area. Samples were transported to the Bacteriology laboratory in Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia and were immediately processed within 24 hours. Samples were cultures onto Sabouraud’s Dextrose agar and incubated at 37o C for 15 days. Identification of cultures was determined using Gram staining and API 20 C AUX identification test kits. Out of fifty samples, Candida species (88%), Trichosporon species (28%) and Saccharomyces species (6%) were isolated. In addition, mold fungi were also identified which include Aspergillus species (18%), Trichophyton species (6%), Mucor species (4%), Medurella species (1%) and Penicillium species (1%). This shows that the pigeons carry potential role as a reservoir for zoonotic yeasts and mold in the environment.

West Nile virus (WNV) is a zoonotic single-strand RNA arbovirus (family Flaviviridae: Flavivirus), transmitted among avian hosts in enzootic cycles by a mosquito vector. The virus has a significant disease effect on humans and equines when it bridges into a cycle with various sequelae with epidemic potential. This study was carried out to identify the potential spectrum of WNV hosts in three geographic areas with climatologically distinct features: Malaysia, Qatar, and the United States of America (U.S.). Serum samples were collected from avian and mammal species suspected to be reservoirs for the virus at these areas in a cross-sectional epidemiologic study. The samples were tested for the presence of antibodies against the virus using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Data on putative risk factors were also collected and analyzed for significance of association with seropositivity using the logistic regression analysis. Among the tested avian and mammalian species, raccoons had the highest seroconversion rate (54%) followed by crows (30%), horses (27%), camels (10%), other avian species (7%), and canine species (3%). It was almost twice as likely to detect seroconversion among these mammalian and avian species in the fall in comparison to other seasons of the year. Only mammalian and avian species and seasons of the year were significantly associated with the likelihood of seroconversion to WNV when we controlled for other factors in the multivariate analysis. Our data from the U.S. showed that raccoons and camels are susceptible to infection by the virus and may play a role in the perpetuation of endemic foci for the disease.

Avian polyomavirus disease is among the most common viral diseases of domesticated exotic birds as such in psittacine families. Caused by avian polyomavirus (APV) which possess a circular, double-stranded DNA which encodes for major structural virus protein 1 (VP1) and minor structural proteins VP2, VP3 and VP4, the disease is also known as Budgerigar fledgling disease polyomavirus (BFPyV), Papovavirus, and Psittacine polyomavirus. Infections from APV may lead to cutaneous haemorrhage, abdominal distension, feather abnormalities and even death. The APV virus has a broad avian host range and is known to cause acute chronic disease in several psittacine birds such as parrot, cockatoo, macaw, and budgerigar. The current status of APV epidemiology globally has not been fully recorded. Only the studies of the virus and disease caused within several countries are used as references, and few were done together with detection of beak and feather disease virus. Despite the common occurrence of APV among bird breeders in Malaysia, a very limited study has been done to evaluate the prevalence status of APV in Malaysia. In this review, we wish to disseminate knowledge, particularly to pet owners and bird breeders, on APV characterisations, its updated occurrence worldwide and prevention strategies. This information may be useful to trigger in depth study on the epidemiology of disease and better management practises among breeders.

lntroduction: Japanese Encephalitis virus (JEV) is transmitted by mosquitoes of lhe Culex species and responsible of viral encephalitis in Asia and it is endemic in Malaysia since 1998. Cats and dogs are reported to be susceptible to JEV infection but high positivity was reported in the latter species. The study is conducted to determine if local cats are susceptible to infection by circulating JEV. Methods: The free roaming cats in Klang Valley were chosen since they are possibly exposed to the mosquitoes throughout their life span as compared to indoor cats. About 3ml blood were withdrawn from L2 Domestic Short Hair cats through jugular venipuncture (IACUC No. UPM/IACUC/AUP-R008/2015). Blood plasma was subjected to two steps RT-PCR assay by using non-structural protein NS3 region, and sequenced. Result: Of 12 blood samples, five were positive for JEV with PCR product of approximately 600 bps. Phylogenetic analyses of three amplicons revealed that the local strains are clade together with 97% bootstrap value with JEV strain Nakayama (HE861351); iEV isolated from Rousettus leschenaulti (JF7052S5 and FJ185036) and from Murino ouroto (FJL85037) in which both are reported in China. Conclusion: Free roamer cats are susceptible to JEV infection. More cats should be screened for iEV to determine their seropositivity. Serosurvey of companion animals may accurately reflect risk of humans since these animals are normally owned by household and cats may be one of the sentinel animals for surveillance.

An outbreak of Newcastle Diseases (ND) was investigated in caged local chickens that were obtained from various locations in and around Bama, Nigeria. A morbidity rate of 58% and morality rate of 60% were recorded among the affected birds. The birds started dying two days after the onset of clinical signs. The signs observed were consistent with ND and included respiratory distress with gasping and sometimes coughing; nervous signs such as paralysis, torticollis; loss of appetite, swollen head and wattles, sometimes ocular and nasal discharge, severe conjunctives and death after some days. The death peaked on day 5 following onset of clinical signs and ceased on day 13 after the onset. The histopathological lesions observed include congestion of the spleen, kidney and lungs, hemorrhages in the proventriculus and kidney. Majority 20/26 (76.9%) of the sera tested during the acute phase of the disease were negative of ND antibodies while those collected during the convalescent phase of the disease showed varying titres ranging between 1:20 and 1:80, suggested of a recent viral infection. All tissue samples collected from infected birds were positive for Newcastle disease virus haemagglutinating antigens and titers ranging between 1:2 and 1:6 were recorded. It was concluded that the outbreak might have been as a result of introduction of some in apparently infected chicken into the cage. It was recommended that the birds should be screened for the presence of ND virus before introduce into a new flock in addition village chicken should be obtained from source that are not infected with the virus and village chicken should be vaccinated routinely against ND.

The antibody profile of village chickens that recovered from clinical Newcastle disease infection were monitored following vaccination with thermostable (NDI2-HR) vaccine over a period of 5 weeks. The birds were grouped into two: vaccinated and non-vaccinated. Antibody profile was determined using haemagglutination inhibition (HI) test. Seromonitoring result revealed a significant (p<0.05) seroconversion with rise in Geometric antibody titer (GMT) values of antibody among the vaccinated birds that survived the outbreak, with peaked at week two following vaccination and declined subsequently in both study groups. No significant difference was observed in the antibody profile of vaccinated and non-vaccinated group which is an indication of low response to vaccination. Vaccination of surviving birds following ND outbreak may be of little value in development of immunity to the disease.

Reptiles, which included snakes, chelonians (turtles, tortoises), iguanas and lizards, have been reported as important reservoirs for Salmonella. In Malaysia, reports on Salmonella in reptiles are not many. A search for works in Malaysia on salmonellae in reptiles found 28.0% chelonians, 27.5 - 61.0% snakes, 26.5 – 36.0% lizards and 31.0% house geckos carried Salmonella. The prevalence in some countries worldwide which included the United States of America, Brazil, Japan, Nigeria and few others were shown. The public health risk of the presence of salmonellae particularly in pet reptiles are discussed.

The University Veterinary Teaching Hospital (UVH) located in Universiti Putra Malaysia Serdang has a bird clinic. This is the clinic of choice for the public, pet owners and veterinarians for sick birds and injured wild birds. A bird’s anatomy is quite different from a cat or dog, so it requires specialized care administered by a qualified bird doctor (avian veterinarian). The care provided by the team include something as simple as grooming (wing clipping, toe nail trimming, beak trimming) and further treatment for simple cases to complicated orthopedic or soft tissue surgeries. Fracture cases are commonly seen.

Universiti Putra Malaysia is given recognition as the National Center of Excellence (CoE) for Swiftlet Industry in 2011 under NKEA Agriculture (EPP#2). One of its important roles is to coordinate research studies on Malaysian edible-nest swiftlets and edible birdnests (EBNs) among higher learning institutions and research institutes in the country and to collaborate with industry players as partners in R&D.

The most visible animals on earth are birds. Flying adaptations in birds garner much attention in the field of science and art. The mechanics of flying, the fluidity of its flight pattern,the accuracy of landings, the arrangement of its different types of feathers, the trans-boundary nature in which they travel across continents and oceans; have been subjects of intellectual discourse over the years by both scientists and artists.

Fracture and bone segment loss are major clinical problems in birds. Achieving bone formation and clinical union in a fracture case is important for the survival of the bird. To evaluate the efficacy of bone grafts for defect healing in birds, 2 different bone grafts were investigated in the healing of a bone defect in 24 healthy pigeons (Columba livia). In each bird, a 1-cm critical size defect (CSD) was created in the left ulna, and the fracture was stabilized with external skeletal fixation (ESF). A graft of hydroxyapatite (HA) alone (n = 12 birds) or demineralized bone matrix (DBM) combined with HA (n = 12 birds) was implanted in the CSD. The CSD healing was evaluated at 3 endpoints: 3, 6, and 12 weeks after surgery. Four birds were euthanatized at each endpoint from each treatment group, and bone graft healing in the ulna CSD was evaluated by histologic examination. The CSD and graft implants were evaluated for quality of union, cortex development, and bone graft incorporation. Results showed no graft rejection in any bird, and all birds had connective tissue formation in the defect because of the bone graft application. These results suggest that bone defect healing can be achieved by a combination of osteoinductive and osteoconductive bone graft materials for clinical union and new bone regeneration in birds. The combination of DBM and HA resulted in a better quality bone graft (P < .05) than did HA alone, but there was no significant differences in cortex development or bone graft incorporation at 3, 6, or 12 weeks. From the results of this study, we conclude that HA bone grafts, alone or in combination with DBM, with external skeletal fixation is suitable and safe for bone defect and fracture treatment in pigeons.

About 24 healthy female Sprague-Dawley rats weighing between 300-350 g were used in this study over a 20 day period. They were allocated randomly into 4 groups of 6 animals each. After the creation of 2x2 cm open wound, group 1 was control treated with Gentamycin ointment. Groups 2-4 were treated with Therapeutic ultrasound massage, collagen-calcium alginate film and collagen-calcium alginate film with therapeutic ultrasound. On application, the collagen-calcium alginate film with therapeutic ultrasound was well accepted by the animals without any adverse reaction. Mean percentage of wound contraction were significantly better in group 4 (p<0.05). Faster epithelialization was also seen in the collagen-calcium alginate film with therapeutic ultrasound treated group as compared to the other groups. Collagen is a biocompatible protein that does not interfere with the body’s normal immunologic response and can be used in non-healing chronic wounds which require a trigger to stimulate the normal healing process. In extensive wounds when there is lack of autologous tissue, biomaterials like collagen-calcium alginate may be beneficial and can be used.

Avian haemoparasites are known to exert negative pressures on their hosts causing considerable pathology and mortalities. The present study reports on the prevalence of haemoprotozoa and microfilaria in various species of wild birds and domestic poultry in Selangor, Malaysia, and contributes to the database on the occurrence of these pathogens among avifauna in the country. Giemsa-stained thin blood smears were screened from 728 birds representing five avian orders, namely Galliformes, Anseriformes, Phoenicopteriformes, Pelecaniformes and Gruiformes. The most common haemoparasite was Plasmodium, with a prevalence of 8.0%. The aquatic/ wetland species of birds (Anseriformes and Gruiformes) were the most common hosts for this pathogen with high infection rates (31.8% – 50.0%). The prevalence of Plasmodium in domestic poultry was moderate (2.7%). Leucocytozoon sabrazesi and L. caulleryi were confined to the Galliformes with relatively low average infection rates of 0.7% and 0.5%, respectively. Haemoproteus was detected for the first time in domestic poultry and Red Jungle fowls in the country, with an average prevalence of 0.8%. Trypanosomes and microfilaria were only present in the village chickens and Red Jungle fowls, with high microfilaraemia rates (19.0%) in the latter. The current compilation will contribute to our understanding on avian haemoparasite transmission in the country.

Salmonella and Campylobacter are well recognised as important zoonotic foodborne pathogens. This study was undertaken to detect the occurrence of Salmonella and Campylobacter in a population of wild birds and to determine the antibiotic susceptibility of the isolates. A total of 68 fresh faecal samples were collected from wild birds in four areas (Bangi, Kepong, and two areas in Serdang). One (1.47%) faecal sample was positive for Salmonella spp. from a pigeon in Kepong and the isolate was resistant to erythromycin and tetracycline. Six (8.82%) faecal samples were positive for Campylobacter spp, three (50%) were from pigeons in Serdang and another three (50%) were pigeons from Kepong. All isolates were identified as Campylobacter jejuni and were resistant to trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (100%), followed by cefotaxime (83.3%), tetracycline (33.3%) and ampicillin (16.7%). The presence of antibiotic resistant Salmonella spp. and Campylobacter spp. in wild birds poses a public health risk because they may transmit these antibiotic resistant pathogens to farm animals and spread them in the environment

Antimicrobial agents are essential tool in treatment, control and prevention of infectious diseases that have devastating effects on animal health and welfare, sustainable livestock production in addition to the control of animal infections that could be passed on to humans (Marshall et al., 2011). According to the US National Research Council and Institute of Medicine states, “The benefit to human health in the proper use of antibiotics in food animals is related to the ability for these drugs to combat infectious bacteria that can be transferred to humans by either direct contact with the sick animal, consumption of food contaminated with pathogens from animals, or proliferation into the environment” (FDA, 2012). However imprudent use of these agents can lead to “the ability of microorganisms to survive or even grow in the presence of a given concentration of an antimicrobial agent, that is usually sufficient to inhibit or kill microorganism of the same species” and this phenomenon is termed as antimicrobial resistance (Anonymous, 2003), thus rendering the agents incapacitated to perform the above mention essential functions and hence may be a problem of global magnitude.

Objective: To evaluate the osteogenic potential of avian demineralized bone matrix (DBM) in the context of implant geometry. Study Design: Experimental. Animals: Rock pigeons (n = 24). Methods: Tubular and chipped forms of DBM were prepared by acid demineralization of long bones from healthy allogeneic donors and implanted bilaterally into the pectoral region of 24 pigeons. After euthanasia at 1, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12 weeks, explants were evaluated histologically and compared by means of quantitative (bone area) and semi quantitative measures (scores). Results: All explants had new bone at retrieval with the exception of tubular implants at the end of week 1. The most reactive part in both implants was the interior region between the periosteal and endosteal surfaces followed by the area at the implant-muscle interface. Quantitative measurements demonstrated a significantly (P = .012) greater percentage of new bone formation induced by tubular implants (80.28 ± 8.94) compared with chip implants (57.64 ± 3.12). There was minimal inflammation. Conclusions: Avian DBM initiates heterotopic bone formation in allogeneic recipients with low grades of immunogenicity. Implant geometry affects this phenomenon as osteoconduction appeared to augment the magnitude of the effects in larger tubular implants.

The study was carried out to detect the presence of Campylobacter in wild birds caught around chicken and duck farms and also in the chickens and ducks in the farms. Of the 70 birds belonging to six species, 18.6% were positive for Campylobacter and of the 101 chickens and 104 ducks sampled, 40% were Campylobacter-positive. Campylobacter jejuni were frequently isolated from birds, chickens and ducks. The wild birds may play a role in the spread of campylobacters to chickens in the farms.

Bone Morhogenetic Protein 2 was first discovered by Urist (1965) when he implanted the demineralized bone in rat muscle pouch which result in bone formation at the implantation site. The presence of BMP 2 protein was further confirmed by Sampath and Reddi (1981) when they discovered the removal of BMP 2 protein caused the matrix failed to induce new bone formation. On the other hand, new bone formation was observed with the presence of BMP 2. Ever since then, the effects of BMP 2 has been actively study and lots of clinical trial have been done using recombinant BMP 2 protein produce from mammalian host but not from avian. Thus, the aim of this study is to detect the presence of BMP 2 gene within the avian genome. In order to amplify the BMP2 gene from avian genome, a set of primer was design based on the Gallus gallus nucleotides sequnces from NCBI (Accession: NM_204358.1). The two primers designed for this study were; forward primer (BMP2F) 5’-ATGGTTGCCGCCACCCGCTC-3’ and reverse primer (BMP2R) 5’-TCAGCGGCACCCGCAGCCCT-3’. DNA from few types of avian species were extracted from the respectively species feathers followed Richard and Jayaraj (2010) protocol and further subjected to PCR screening. The annealing temperature for this particular set of primer was set at 71.9°C. The PCR results were then send for sequencing. As shown in Figure 1.0, the PCR results in 1% agarose gel (w/v), the expected PCR products size was 1179 bps but the PCR product only shown about 950 bps instead of 1179 bps. However the sequencing results of these PCR products shown up to 94% similarity, when blast against the BMP 2 gene from NCBI. Despite the PCR products size were lesser than the expected size but it should be able to function in avian system as clinical report from Sample et al. (2008) had proven that recombinant human BMP 2 in calcium phosphate matrix as a bone graft substitute can be used for treatment of a comminuted, open humeral fracture in a whooping crane. Whereby, the Homo

The importance of Campylobacter and Salmonella as foodborne pathogens is well recognised globally. A recent work in Penang found ducks in commercial farms were infected with these organisms. The aim of the study was to detect the presence of Campylobacter and Salmonella in ducks and Salmonella in duck eggs in farms in a small part of Selangor. Cloacal swabs were obtained from 75 ducks and 30 duck eggs from three farms. The isolation and identification of Campylobacter and Salmonella were done using conventional methods. Twelve percent of Campylobacter and 16.0% of Salmonella were isolated from the ducks sampled. Salmonella was absent on and in eggs. Campylobacter isolates consisted of 22% Campylobacter jejuni and the remaining was Campylobacter coli. Three Salmonella serovars identified were Salmonella Agona, S. Braenderup and S. Corvallis. The presence of Campylobacter and Salmonella in ducks may cause contamination of the meat during processing and handling which can constitute public health hazard. Moreover, the farm workers may be exposed to the organisms through contact with the infected animals.

This study was conducted on 12 adult pigeons (Columba livia) of six months age. The birds were randomly divided into three groups of four birds in each. A transverse fracture was created at mid shat of left ulna. The fracture was fixed with external skeletal fixation and all operations performed under Isoflurane anaesthesia. All birds were studied for three, six and 12 weeks. This study was approved by Animal Care and Use Committee of University Putra Malaysia. The purpose of this study was to find out the histological assessment of healing of ulna fracture stabilized with external skeletal fixation in bird model. Results at three weeks showed cartilage and cancellous bone union with a mean value of 2.75±0.63. At six weeks cancellous and compact bone union was seen with a mean value of 4±0.0. At 12 weeks significant bone union along with callus remodelling was observed at P<0.05. It was concluded that histological assessment of fracture healing showed that ESF provided excellent fracture healing and could be useful for fracture stabilization in avian clinical fracture management.

The presence of Helicobacter spp. in the stomach of pet and other animal species has been reported worldwide but the documentation of occurrence of the organism in these animals in Malaysia is lacking. This paper discussed the occurrence of helicobacters in cats and dogs (pet animals) as well as in chickens and pigs (food animals) and the zoonotic potential of these organisms in animals that may infections cause in humans. The occurrence of helicobacters in animals in Malaysia from limited available studies is presented.

Three ostrich show farms were visited to detect the presence of Campylobacter and Salmonella in the birds. Cloacal and skin swabs were taken from 31 ostriches which were clinically healthy. Campylobacter was isolated from one (1.6%) cloacal swab and Salmonella from two (3.2%) samples, a skin and a cloacal swabs; all were from different birds. Although the detection of the organisms was low, it could pose public health risk partly because of contact with the birds and the organisms in the faeces may contaminate the environment and it could be that they may be present in other birds but were not shed at the time of sampling.

Prevalence of multidrug resistant bacteria in apparently healthy chickens from 3 selected poultry farms in Selangor area of Malaysia was investigated. Conventional isolation techniques such as growth on selective media, gram staining and biochemical tests was utilised for the identification of the different bacterial isolates. Antimicrobial sensitivity test was monitored with the disc diffusion assay against 12 antimicrobial agents. A total of 96 Staphylococcus aureus, 48 E.coli, 7 Pasteurella sp. and 6 Salmonella sp. were isolated. All E. coli and Salmonella spp. isolates were multidrug resistant while 77.2% of Staphylococcus aureus and 71.5% of Pasteurella sp. isolates were multidrug resistant. The study further reveled highest resistance to tetracycline while cephatothin as the best drug of choice for treatment of infections caused by the isolates in the study area. Since not only chickens are at risk, this study recommends urgent intervention by regulatory agencies to limit the emergence and spread of these bacteria as well as prudent use of antibacterial agents among farmers in Malaysia.

Newcastle Disease is regarded as one of the most important disease of avian species and was listed as ‘A’ disease by the Office International des Epizooties (OIE). Studies have shown this disease infects more than 250 species of birds. The edible-nest swiftlet industry in Malaysia is on the rise for the last 10 years and swiftlet houses can be seen everywhere. This is due to the high price of edible bird nests at international market and high income generated by the farming of edible bird nest. Nevertheless, edible-nest swiftlet (Aerodramus fuciphagus) is can either be infected with or carrying the deadly Newcastle disease virus (NDV) which is a great threat to the poultry industry in this country. In Peninsular Malaysia, no study on this subject was reported so far in this swiflet species. In this study, 60 swiftlet carcasses were sampled. Post-mortem was conducted and lung and trachea tissues were collected. Tissue samples were tested for NDV using the reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Newcastle Disease Virus was not detected in any of the samples. Thus, it can be concluded that edible nest swiftlets (Aerodramus fuciphagus) ranched under oil palm plantation in this study are not infected with or carry NDV.

Bird’s nest has become a commodity in Peninsular Malaysia and other regions in South East Asia. The nest is made up of the bird’s saliva during nesting. There are several common species of swiftlet such as the Aerodramus fuciphagus, Aerodramus maximus and Apus pacificus. Malaysia is the second largest producer of bird nest in the world.The nesthas been used for many years as remedy as well as traditional medicine and is common among the Chinese worldwide. The nest is allegedly able to curea wide range of ailments ranging from enhancing complexion, alleviating asthma, and strengthening the immune system (1). However, the antiviral efficacy studies of bird nest are lacking on viral diseases except a study on influenza virus. Preliminary study shows that the bird nestis able to neutralize influenza viruses and inhibit the agglutination of erythrocytes (2). This preliminary research is to examine if the bird nest extract has antiviral properties against the feline infectious peritonitis virus in vitro.

The occurrence of Arcobacter was determined in chicken meat parts (thighs, wings, breasts) purchased from various wet markets (fresh warm meat) and supermarkets (chilled meat) in Selangor, Malaysia. Forty eight of the 123 (39%) of chicken meat parts was Arcobacter-positive with Arcobacter butzleri as the only species isolated. The fresh warm meat (41%) showed higher occurrence of arcobacters than those chilled (37%), however the difference was not statistically significant (χ2 = 0.2; p = 0.655). A farm-level study was also conducted in broiler chickens from six farms but the bacteria were not detected in any of the 210 cloacal swabs collected. Thus, the presence of arcobacters on chicken meat retailed in markets may render such meat a significant public health risk for humans.

Campylobacter spp. and Salmonella spp. are important pathogens in veterinary medicine and public health. In Malaysia, there has been limited research done in ostriches due to the small-scale farming and small number of animals. Nevertheless, ostrich farming has a huge potential. Some of the disease agents affecting ostriches, such as Campylobacter spp. and Salmonella spp. can also cause disease in humans. As such, infected ostrich may serve as potential public health risk. Hence, this study was undertaken to determine the occurrence of Campylobacter spp. and Salmonella spp. in ostrich and this is the first report documenting the occurrence of these two bacteria in ostrich in Malaysia.Samples were collected from three ostrich show farms, with 8 ostriches from Farm A, 11 from Farm B and 12 from farm C. Samples from the cloaca and skin swabs were obtained from each of the ostrich and examined for Campylobacter spp. and Salmonella spp. All samples were cultured for Campylobacter spp. via direct plating on CCDA. One out of 62 samples (1.6%) was positive for Campylobacter spp. and it was isolated from the cloacal swab. Pre-enrichment, enrichment and direct plating on XLT4 and Salmonella Chromogenic agar were done for isolation of Salmonella spp. from the ostriches. Two samples, one from the skin swab and another one from the cloacal swab, from two different birds were positive for Salmonella spp. The study showed the occurrence of Campylobacter spp. and Salmonella spp. in ostriches. The ostrich is of public health significance as they are used in recreational activities and for human consumption.

The breeding performance of barn owl, Tyto alba javanica, in areas treated with rodenticides in immature oil palms in Malaysia was investigated. Four plots were established, each at least 100 ha in size and treated with warfarin, brodifacoum, a biorodenticide (Sarcocystis singaporensis) and a non-baited control plot. Three rat baiting campaigns, which coincided with the barn owl breeding season, were carried out in October 2008, February and March 2009, and in October 2009. The nest boxes were distributed at a mean density of one unit per 25 ± 3.83 ha. The clutch size, hatching and fledging rates of barn owls in each plot was monitored monthly from September 2008 to January 2010. There was no significant difference in mean clutch size for all four treatments. The lowest percentage of hatching success was recorded in the brodifacoum-treated plot in all three breeding seasons. Fledging success was highest in the control plot, followed by the S. singaporensis-, warfarin- and brodifacoum-treated plots. The mean clutch size and mean hatching success was not significantly correlated with mean rat damage (clutch size, r = 0.754, p > 0.05; mean hatching success, r = 0.832; p > 0.05). The mean fledging success was significantly correlated with mean rat damage (r = 0.969; p < 0.05). Brodifacoum achieved the lowest level of rat damage but not significantly lower than warfarin and S. singaporensis. This indicates that S. singaporensis is a better rodenticide than warfarin and brodifacoum in controlling rats and yet achieved the highest reproductive rates in the baited areas as reflected by the rate of fledging success.

West Nile Virus (WNV) infection is a zoonotic emerging disease caused by RNA virus genus of Flavivirus. WNV virus is maintain in the environment via cyclic transmission with mosquito particularly Culex spp. served as a vector, birds as amplifying host and human or mammals as dead-end host. Currently, no studies have been carried out to determine the prevalence of WNV antibody in captive bird populations in Malaysia. This study was conducted because there are many risk factors that can contribute to the presence of WNV in Malaysia such as high biodiversity including migratory birds, presence of vector and importation of the birds among pet owners and zoological collections. This cross-sectional study was conducted in four selected areas in Selangor which were National Zoo, Sunway’s Wildlife Park, Tanjung Karang and Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, UPM. Sixty-eight serum samples from 17 different species of captive birds were collected via venipuncture at the wing vein. Then, these sera were tested using ID Screen® West Nile Competition (Competitive ELISA) against anti-protein E antibody. Three samples showed seroconversion and each positive sample was from different species and different places. The overall prevalence in this study was 4.41%. The prevalence based on locations were National Zoo (5.88%), Sunway’s Wildlife Park (6.17%) and, Tanjung Karang (9.09%). Thus, this preliminary study confirmed the exposure to WNV among captive bird populations in selected areas in Selangor.

Autologous bone marrow, alone or as a composite marrow graft, has received much attention in various species. To assess the potential osteogenicity of autologous, extramedullary bone marrow implants in an avian model, 24 adult pigeons (Columba livia) were given intramuscular implantations of autologous marrow aspirated from the medial tibiotarsus. Birds were euthanatized at 1, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12 weeks after surgery to evaluate whether ectopic bone had formed at the implant sites. Primary evaluations by in situ radiography and postmortem histologic examinations showed no evidence of bone formation. Further evaluation with histologic scores and histomorphometry revealed a significantly increased rate of angiogenesis at the implant sites by the sixth and tenth week postimplantation (P < .05). No significant differences between the treatment and control sites were present at any other endpoints. Results of this study show that, although autologous bone marrow lacks heterotopic osteogenic potentials in this avian model, it could still function as a useful adjunct to routine bone grafting techniques because of its unique capabilities to promote early angiogenesis.

This study was carried out to determine the sex of birds through the DNA extracted from cheek cells using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique. Sterile swabs were used to collect cheek cells from 39 adults of various psittacine species as a source of DNA. A pair of Eclectus parrots (Eclectus roratus), a sexual dimorphism species was used as a control group. Various quantities of DNA were extracted from the buccal samples by the conventional DNA extraction method. A set of primers, P2 and P8, was designed for the study. The positive control samples were tested with the primers that will bind to CHD W and CHD Z genes, in the chromosome Z and W of the birds. The PCR products of P2 and P8 showed a single band (300 bps) for male and double bands (300 bps and 400 bps) for female birds. Based on the PCR results, of the 39 samples tested, there were 15 males (39%), 12 females (31%) and 12 unknown (12%) sex. This study shows that avian cheek cells contain DNA and can be used as a tool for sex or gender determination for avian species.

The growth of nestling barn owls, Tyto Alba javanica in immature oil palm in Malaysia was investigated under rat baiting with three different rodenticides. Four treatment plots were established with three plots baited each with warfarin, brodifacoum and a protozoan based biorodenticide, Sarcocystis singaporensis plus a fourth non-baited control plot. Three rat baiting campaign were carried out during the study, the first rat baiting campaign was conducted in October 2008, the second was in March 2009 (except for biorodenticide baiting was conducted a month earlier), and the last third baiting campaign in October 2009. The baiting campaigns coincided with the breeding season of barn owl. Nestlings body measurements namely: body mass, culmen length, tarsus length, wing length and tail length were taken after the third baiting campaign, from September 2009 to January 2010. Measurements were recorded every three days from hatching up until 49 days old, i.e., several days before fledging. Nestlings in control plot showed superior for all parameter taken compared to rodenticides treated plots. Body mass of nestlings in control plot were heavier by 8.17%, 13.04%, and 6.88% compared to warfarin, brodifacoum and biorodenticide treated plots respectively. The culmen and tarsus length of nestling barn owls reached the adult size during the growth period; while culmen length in control plot was longer by 3.07%, 5.28%, and 1.41% compared to warfarin, brodifacoum and biorodenticide treated plots respectively. The tarsus length of nestlings in control plot was also longer by 2.40%, 3.08% and 3.36% compared to warfarin, brodifacoum and biorodenticide treated plots respectively. In contrast with culmen and tarsus length, wing and tail length still grew until day 49 i.e., several days before fledging. The wing and tail length in control plot was shorter by 15.77% and 13.73% compared to adult size. Teratogenic sign was shown by one nestling in brodifacoum treated plot, where its prima