This study tested the effects of propylene glycol (PG) on the fatty acid composition of Akkaraman lambs in three different anatomical depot locations (ADLs). Twenty-four lambs were assigned to a randomized complete block design comprising three groups of 8 animals as follows: Con, 1.5%, body weight (BW) (PG1.5) and 3% BW supplemental PG. The animals were slaughtered 90 days after the commencement of feeding. Tail, perirenal and back fat were collected, and their fatty acid compositions were analysed. PG was associated with lower levels of capric acid (C10:0) and lauric acid (C12:0), and higher levels of arachidic acid (C20:0), D-ɣ-linolenic acid (C20:3n6), behenic acid (C22:0), docosadienoic acid (C22:2n6), tyricosylic acid (C23:0) and eicosapentaenoic acid (C20:5n3; p < 0.05, p < 0.01 and p < 0.001). The ADLs differed for all fatty acids except C12:0 and C14:0 (myristic acid). Perirenal fat had the highest SFA levels, while n6/n3 was higher in tail fat than in fat from the other ADLs (p < 0.001). The high correlation of ∆9 C16 and ∆9 C18 index values with other sum and index values indicates that desaturation enzyme activity was elevated in the lambs' depot fats (p < 0.05, p < 0.01 and p < 0.001). This suggests that perirenal fats have less favourable fatty acid compositions than the other ADLs.

Nowadays, computed tomography (CT) scanning is one of the most practical and precise diagnostic imaging methods that can be utilized to evaluate the head in birds.

Understanding the genetic factors that influence meat yield is crucial due to the economic importance of average daily live weight gain (ADWG) in livestock. This study investigates the relationship between the c.*188G>A SNP in the 3'-UTR region of the akirin 2 gene and growth traits in Zavot cattle, focusing on the gene's role in muscle development. Genotyping of the c.*188G>A SNP was conducted using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis, revealing frequencies of 0.09 for AA, 0.75 for AG and 0.16 for GG genotypes, respectively. Our findings demonstrate a significant association between this SNP and ADWG, as well as percentage. These results suggest that the c.*188G>A SNP within akirin 2 could serve as a valuable DNA marker for predicting ADWG and percentage traits in Zavot cattle.

Local health departments can play a critical role in zoonoses surveillance at the human-domestic animal interface, especially when existing public health services and close relationships with community groups can be leveraged. Investigators at Harris County Veterinary Public Health employed a community-based surveillance tool for identifying severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infections in dogs and cats in June--December 2021. Diagnosis was made using both RT-qPCR testing of oral and nasal swabs and plaque reduction neutralization testing of serum samples. Recruitment for this free companion animal surveillance program occurred through the following two streams: case-based and event-based. The case-based stream recruited companion animals of confirmed human COVID-19 cases through the Harris County Public Health case investigations platform and used the information from epidemiological investigations of the owners to conduct further investigations of their pet(s). The event-based stream recruited companion animals participating in free or low-cost spay/neuter events at Harris County Pets Resource Center (HCPRC). A total of 97 animals were tested, with the case-based and event-based streams accounting for 36 and 61, respectively. A total of 13 animals (13.4%) tested seropositive including one that also had positive RT-qPCR swabs. Of the positives, 11 (84.6%) were associated with a confirmed human case of SARS-CoV-2 living in the same household including one household with four out of the seven animals positive for SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing antibodies. These two surveillance methods employed at the local level emphasize the importance of the One Health approach and provide a model for future zoonoses surveillance systems.

This case report highlights a potential vaccine safety concern associated with the Pseudorabies virus (PRV) live vaccine, which warrants further investigation for comprehensive understanding. Vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT), a novel syndrome of adverse events following adenovirus vector COVID-19 vaccines, was observed after vaccination with Zoetis PR-VAC PLUS. This led to a 100% morbidity and high mortality among PRV-free Danish purebred pigs from Danish Genetics Co. Clinical signs and gross presentations due to the post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS) and pulmonary embolism (PE) included (1) PE causing severe pulmonary oedema, which led to shortness of breath and respiratory failure. PTS causing (2) osteochondrosis (OCD)/leg weakness syndrome; (3) acute gastric ulcers and bleeding; (4) haemorrhagic bowel syndrome; (5) myocardial infarction or heart failure and (6) noticeable varicose veins. (7) Thrombocytopenia along with reddish or purplish spots appeared. Definitive diagnosis was based on the following as human medicine: (1) clinical signs appearing 4-42 days post-vaccination; (2) thrombocytopenia; (3) presence of thrombus in lung vessels, alveolar septa vessels, gastric vessels and small intestine, as well as other organs, as confirmed by histopathologic examination; (4) positive result from anti-heparin/PF4 ELISA testing. VITT in pigs, not previously reported, could be attributed to several factors: (1) Differences in diagnosing pigs compared to humans, especially considering that VITT associated with COVID-19 vaccines has only recently been identified. (2) Challenges in linking clinical signs such as pulmonary oedema, OCD/leg weakness, gastric ulcers and haemorrhagic bowel syndrome to thrombosis. (3) Delayed onset of clinical signs 4-42 days post-vaccination, unlike common vaccine side effects. (4) Clinical signs were varied and illogical, and ranged from mild to moderate with low mortality if there were no other complications or conditions. (5) Difficulty in diagnosing the condition due to the presence of common pathogens like PRRSV and PCV2. (6) Breeding/genetic factors can be an issue when breeders with strong immunity, who may also be highly sensitive to VITT, are selected. The potential problem of VITT might not be detected because no PR vaccine is used in Denmark.

The aim of this study was to determine and compare the diagnostic accuracies of two commercial pregnancy-associated glycoprotein tests, Alertys OnFarm Pregnancy Test (AOPT) and Alertys Milk Pregnancy Test (AMPT), for early pregnancy diagnosis in dairy cattle. Holstein cows (n = 124) were used in the study. Whole blood samples were collected from the jugular vein 28 days after fixed-time artificial insemination (FTAI). In addition, teats of these cows were swabbed and milk samples were collected into sterile Falcon tubes. AOPT was performed on the farm within 2 h after whole blood collection. Milk samples for AMPT analysis were taken to the laboratory and analysed within 2 h. Transrectal ultrasonography was performed on the 32nd day after FTAI as a reference test. Comparative evaluation was made according to the AOPT and AMPT results, 28 days after FTAI. The sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) for the AOPT were 92.4%, 80.0%, 87.9%, 89.0% and 85.7% and for AMPT were 97.5%, 82.2%, 91.9%, 90.6% and 94.9% respectively. Cohen's kappa statistic showed a 91.9% agreement (kappa = 0.820, p < 0.001) between the reference test and AMPT, and an 87.9% agreement (kappa = 0.735, p < 0.001) between the reference test and AOPT. AOPT and AMPT offers a reliable, non-invasive (in milk) and practical approach to pregnancy diagnosis in cows. These methods enable early pregnancy detection and can be easily integrated into farm routines, enhancing reproductive management and overall herd productivity.

Photodynamic inactivation (PDI) is a new and promising strategy for eliminating foodborne pathogenic bacteria in food preservation, reducing associated health risks for consumers. This study aimed to develop an innovative PDI-based system to inactivate Salmonella Enteritidis PT4 on eggshells. The system includes 405 nm light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and the application of curcumin or carvacrol as photosensitizers. The antibacterial activity of the system was investigated in eggshells inoculated with S. Enteritidis PT4 at different temperatures (4, 25, and 37°C) and exposure times (15, 30, and 45 min). Carvacrol + LEDs application was completely inhibited S. Enteritdis PT4 at 4 (after 30 min), 25, and 37°C at the 45th min. Curcumin + LED completely inhibited bacterial growth after 45 min at 4 and 25°C. The results showed that simultaneous use of carvacrol or curcumin with LEDs at various temperatures exhibited significant antibacterial activity against the bacteria depending on the exposure time. The application of curcumin or carvacrol sourced via PDI in the originally developed system resulted in any significant changes in egg quality parameters and sensory properties. This study demonstrated that PDI-based system using curcumin or carvacrol as photosensitizers could be a potential tool for decontamination of eggs contaminated with S. Enteritidis PT4.

Isoproterenol (ISO) is a nonselective beta-adrenergic receptor agonist known for its vasodilatory effects. This experiment aims to investigate whether intrauterine ISO administration could alter vascular indices and follicular development in postpartum Holstein cows.

Toxoplasmosis is a significant food-borne protozoal disease in humans and animals. The study aimed to find out Toxoplasma seropositivity in sheep, estimate epidemiological risk factors and assess haemato-biochemical parameter changes. Blood samples were collected from 276 indigenous sheep in five districts surrounding Sulaymaniyah Province in the northern region of Iraq. Toxoplasmosis was determined by detecting anti-Toxoplasma antibodies by ELISA. The impact of various risk factors on seropositivity was evaluated. Haematological and serum biochemical changes from naturally infected sheep were analysed using commercial kits. The overall seroprevalence of Toxoplasma antibodies among the studied population was 41.67%. Sharazoor district had a higher prevalence rate of 46.15% than Bakrajo, with the lowest frequency rate of 38.18%. Ewes with an abortion history had a higher risk for seropositivity of about 47.4% (OR = 1.4, 95% CI: 0.9-1.6). Sampling season and herd size are other risk factors, with higher seropositivity at 42.5% (OR = 1.1, 95% CI: 0.8-1.4) during the dry season and among small flocks ≤ 100 animals/farm at 43.6% (OR = 1.1, 95% CI: 0.7-1.4). Toxoplasma prevalence was correlated with animals' ages; a higher seropositivity of 43.3% was found among older sheep (OR = 0.8, 95% CI: 0.6-1.2). Seropositive sheep had significantly higher total leukocyte, lymphocyte and granulocyte counts but significantly lower haemoglobin, haematocrit and total erythrocyte counts. The serum levels of total protein and albumin were significantly reduced, with increased blood urea nitrogen and creatinine concentrations. Also, AST enzyme activity represents a higher value in positive sheep with toxoplasmosis. Toxoplasma infection among the ovine population is common. Its impact on livestock productivity should not be neglected. A potential risk for humans through infected sheep could be a hazardous source for public health.

Fascioliasis represents one of the most significant parasitic and foodborne zoonotic diseases in the world. Resistance to currently deployed human and veterinary flukicides is a growing health problem. Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) have developed enormous importance in nanomedicine. The current study aims to evaluate the flukicide activity of ZnO-NPs on the adult stages of Fasciola hepatica, in vitro assay.

Family poultry farming plays a crucial role in ensuring protein availability and household income, particularly in low-income families. This study investigates the knowledge, attitudes and practices of family poultry farmers regarding poultry diseases, biosecurity and vaccinations. The research involved surveying 150 farmers in a selected area in Sri Lanka's western province, revealing significant knowledge gaps, particularly in understanding poultry diseases, their causes, transmission pathways and potential impacts on humans. Most respondents demonstrated a lack of familiarity with biosecurity practices, with only a small fraction accurately identified recommended measures. Among the total respondents, only 16.7% were familiar with the term 'biosecurity'. Additionally, only 29.3% recognized that family poultry could pose a threat to public health. A significant majority (84.67%) admitted to not knowing which diseases could be effectively prevented through vaccination, and 80% of respondents had never vaccinated their birds. These findings highlight the challenges faced by family poultry farmers due to their limited understanding of crucial aspects of poultry management. The study underscores the need for government intervention and policy development to address these issues. Education and training programmes are essential to enhance farmers' awareness regarding disease control, biosecurity measures and the benefits of vaccination.

The poultry industry faces challenges with the high cost and environmental impact of Soybean meal. Feather meal, a byproduct with low digestibility due to its keratin content, is a potential alternative. Recent biotechnological advances, including enzymatic and bacterial hydrolysis, have enhanced its digestibility and nutritional value.

A proper placentation is required for establishment and continuity of pregnancy. In sheep, placentomes are unique structures that enable nutrition and gas exchange between the mother and the foetus. Although placentomes are dynamic formations, there is limited knowledge of changes in placentomes during pregnancy.

Amino acid supplements are crucial for animal health and productivity. Traditional analysis methods face limitations like complexity, long testing times and toxic reagents. Therefore, a more efficient and reliable method is needed.

Today, customers pay more attention to the feed composition and carcasses of poultry, and the interest in using natural and safe compounds such as medicinal plants and their extracts in animal feed is increasing.

Post-operative new-onset atrial fibrillation (POAF) is a possible complication following cardiac surgery. Digoxin is a drug with positive inotropic and negative chronotropic effects and is listed among antiarrhythmic drugs that can be prescribed in dogs with atrial fibrillation. This report aims at describing the use of digoxin in two dogs with persistent POAF after mitral valve repair. Case 1 was a Toy Poodle, neutered male, 12 years old, weighing 5.0 kg. The patient was diagnosed with the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM) Stage D myxomatous mitral valve disease without arrhythmia. The day of the surgery was defined as Day 1. Persistent POAF was diagnosed on Day 30 (1-min mean heart rate of 206 bpm by in-clinic electrocardiogram), and treatment with digoxin was started at a dose of 0.0040 mg/kg, p12h. The resolution of atrial fibrillation (AF) was confirmed at the follow-up visit on Day 58 (1-min mean heart rate of 162 bpm by in-clinic electrocardiogram). Case 2 was a mixed-breed dog, neutered male, 12 years old, weighing 7.6 kg. The patient was diagnosed with ACVIM Stage B2 myxomatous mitral valve disease without arrhythmia. After surgery, the patient had a normal sinus rhythm, but a paroxysmal ectopic atrial rhythm was observed on Day 32. Persistent POAF was diagnosed on Day 130 (1-min mean heart rate of 216 bpm by in-clinic electrocardiogram), and treatment with digoxin was started at a dose of 0.0037 mg/kg, p12h. The resolution of AF was confirmed on Day 151 (1-min mean heart rate of 107 bpm by in-clinic electrocardiogram). In this report, the authors suspected that digoxin therapy could have contributed, among other factors, to cardioversion. However, specifically designed studies are needed to confirm this preliminary hypothesis.

Human consumption of dairy products contaminated with aflatoxin (AF) M1 can lead to severe health issues. This AF's significance and impact on health necessitate a thorough investigation of its prevalence in dairy products.

Lack of knowledge regarding zoonotic transmission, prevention and control measures is a potential high risk for the occurrence of zoonotic diseases.

Genomic and evolutionary analysis of epidemic porcine hepatitis E virus (HEV) in the Tibetan Plateau was performed. Faecal samples were collected from 216 Tibetan pigs and 78 Tibetan Yorkshire (Large White) and 53 tissue samples from Yorkshire from the Linzhi City slaughterhouse. Total RNA was extracted from faeces and fragments of HEV open reading frame 2 (ORF2) detected by reverse transcription and nested polymerase chain reaction (RT-nPCR) and cloned. Twenty-three samples (23/347; 6.63%) were positive for the virus, including 6.94% (15/216) Tibetan pig and 6.11% (8/131) Yorkshire samples. No tissue samples tested positive for the virus. Cloned sequences were uploaded to GenBank (accession numbers: OR392679-OR392685, OR355817-OR355824 and OR909495-OR909502) and a phylogenetic tree constructed. The entire viral genome was amplified using primers for the 5-month-old Tibetan pig sequence which confirmed that the strain belonged to HEV type 4, subtype d (GenBank accession number: OQ981960) and showed 93.30% homology with Sichuan Tibetan pig sequence, MK410044. Bayesian tree analysis showed that the earliest divergence was in 1999 and evidence of homologous recombination was found. Genomic and evolutionary analysis of HEV in the Tibetan Plateau is presented. The importance of continuous surveillance and genomic analysis of HEV is highlighted, especially in regions like the Tibetan Plateau where new strains may emerge. The findings contribute to our understanding of HEV's genetic diversity, evolutionary history and potential risks to animal and human health.

Obtaining information about the growth rates of animals' organs and tissues can help understand their meat production potential and determine the ideal slaughter weight (SW).

Veterinary science remains a challenging and less appreciated subject in the Iranian higher education system and society.