Influence of tannin-rich extract from commercial Acacia mearnsii and gallocatechin on ovine cryopreserved semen viability

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of a tannin-rich extract from commercial Acacia mearnsii (MTE_0), and gallocatechin, a flavonoid compound derived from Acacia mearnsii, on the long-term viability and motility of cryopreserved ovine semen. Six fresh ejaculates obtained from six adult merino rams twice per week for three weeks were allocated to five aliquots (0, 12.5, 25, 50, and 100 µM gallocatechin added into the Optidyl™ extender) before cooling and cryopreservation. Effects of MTE_0 and gallocatechin on post-thawed motility characteristics were analyzed using computer-assisted semen analysis (CASA), and viability (LIVE/DEAD® kit, Molecular Invitrogen, Waltham, MA), oxidative stress (2,7-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate (H2DCFDA, Thermo Fisher®, Waltham, MA)) for reactive oxygen species (ROS), mitochondrial membrane potential (JC-1 MitoTracker, Molecular Invitrogen, Waltham, MA), acrosomal integrity (lectin PNA), and capacitation using merocyanine 540 (M540) and YO-PRO-1 dyes in flow cytometry. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA (IBM SPSS 21.0 for Windows, Armonk, NY). Gallocatechin at 25 µM positively affected (p ≤ .001) kinematic parameters including average path velocity (VAP), progressive velocity (VSL), and beat cross frequency (BCF) of cryopreserved semen. Similarly, gallocatechin at 25 µM- improved sperm motility (live 21.99 ± 2.06%), reduced ROS levels (26.45 ± 1.10%), and mitigated premature capacitation (viable and stable 20.08 ± 1.48%) compared to other treatments. Gallocatechin addition to semen resulted in a significant (p ≤ .001) positive effect compared with the MTE_0 extract. It is concluded that gallocatechin inclusion at 25 µM significantly reduces semen deterioration following cryopreservation. This study is the first to introduce gallocatechin as an efficient antioxidant additive to ovine semen to improve its quality during storage. Our findings will help improve post-thaw ovine semen quality and longevity. Future studies to elucidate the mechanism of anti-oxidative stress action of gallocatechin and its derivatives on semen motility and longevity are recommended.

LC-MS/MS method for the simultaneous quantification of thiafentanil and naltrexone in bovine muscle, liver and kidney

Thiafentanil is a µ-opioid agonist used for the chemical immobilisation of a variety of ungulate species and is antagonised by the administration of naltrexone. The potential for these ungulates to be hunted for consumption by humans or predators raises concerns of drug residues in animal tissues. No analytical method to quantify tissue residue concentrations of thiafentanil has been previously reported. This research developed an LC-MS/MS method to quantify thiafentanil in bovine muscle, and both thiafentanil and naltrexone in bovine liver and kidney matrices. The analytical method was applied to quantify tissue residues in samples collected from goats 1, 2, 3, and 6 days post thiafentanil administration. The assay was validated over the calibration range 6.25-200 ng/mg for thiafentanil in muscle, and 3.13-400 ng/mg for thiafentanil and 57.8-7400 ng/mg for naltrexone in liver and kidney. No residues above the lowest limit of quantification were detected in the injection site, longissimus dorsi muscle, liver or kidney samples collected from the goats. The reported analytical method and residue depletion data provide a foundation for future thiafentanil and naltrexone residue depletion studies in wildlife species.

Comparison of the in vitro antibiofilm activities of otic cleansers against canine otitis externa pathogens

BACKGROUND

Biofilm production by canine otitis externa (COE) pathogens and resistance development to multiple antimicrobials are commonly reported problems in veterinary practice. The use of adjuvants to disrupt biofilms may be a viable adjunctive therapy.

HYPOTHESIS/OBJECTIVES

To compare the in vitro antibiofilm activity against COE pathogens of three otic cleansers: PHMB-EDTA (poly [hexamethylene] biguanide hydrochloride and disodium edetate), N-acetylcysteine (NAC) and Triz-EDTA.

ANIMALS/ISOLATES

Thirty isolates of each species, including Staphylococcus pseudintermedius, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Streptococcus canis, Proteus mirabilis, Escherichia coli, and Malassezia pachydermatis, were collected from COE cases and stored at -80°C until tested.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

Biofilm production was determined by Congo-red agar and microtitre plate-assay methods. Ten of the best biofilm-producing isolates per species were selected to determine minimum biofilm eradication concentration (MBEC) values. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values were determined to compare MBEC/MIC and MBEC/MBC.

RESULTS

PHMB-EDTA possessed antibiofilm activity at low concentrations (MBEC range 3.9/2.3-500/300 μg/mL) against all tested COE pathogens. NAC demonstrated antibiofilm activity for all tested bacterial COE pathogens (MBEC range 4,925-19,700 μg/mL); however, most M. pachydermatis isolates exhibited MBEC values >20,000 μg/mL. Triz/EDTA at the highest concentration tested (3,025/19,520 μg/mL) did not demonstrate antibiofilm activity against most COE pathogens except for S. canis (94.5/610 μg/mL).

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE

PHMB-EDTA had intrinsic antibiofilm activity at low concentrations against all COE pathogens. Therefore, it is likely to be a very effective adjuvant when used in conjunction with other antimicrobials for the treatment of COE caused by biofilm-producing pathogens.

Body Condition and Blood Biochemistry of Free-Range Caiman latirostris in Northeast Brazilian Atlantic Forest

The Atlantic Forest broad-snouted caiman (Caiman latirostris) inhabits regions within one of the world's most ecologically diverse ecosystems, yet few studies have explored the relationship between body condition, blood biochemistry, and environmental factors in the wild. Our study investigated the effects of sex, ontogeny, habitat, and environmental variables on the body condition and blood biochemistry of free-ranging caimans from the state of Alagoas, Northeast Brazil. From 2020 to 2022, we captured 75 caimans across three sites in different seasons. Results revealed sex-specific responses to seasonal and Interannual weather changes, with females showing higher body condition in the wet season, while males peaked in the dry season. Elevated glucose, total protein, albumin, triglycerides, and fructosamine were linked to higher body condition and larger individuals, while elevated aspartate aminotransferase to low body condition. Seasonal rainfall influenced blood parameters, with the dry season associated with higher creatinine, calcium, and alanine aminotransferase levels, and the wet season with higher total protein, sodium, and potassium. Differences in glucose, alkaline phosphatase, and gamma-glutamyl transferase across sites pointed to physiological effects of human activities. Blood biochemical values varied widely, with some exceeding reported species ranges. These findings highlight the need to interpret physiological data within the context of local habitat and environmental conditions. Conservation strategies should go beyond species presence and habitat preservation, incorporating pollution control. Our study advances understanding of Caiman latirostris ecophysiology, offering valuable insights for the conservation and management of crocodilian populations in both wild and captive environments.

Caprine dermal scaffolds for repair of full-thickness skin wounds in rabbits

Biological scaffolds prepared after decellularization are used for the restoration of damaged tissues. A number of chemicals are used for bioscaffold preparation, and some of them damage their composition and architecture. Herein, we investigated the Sapindus mukorossi fruit pericarp extract (SPE) (5%) for decellularization of the caprine dermis. The dermal samples were processed in 5% SPE over magnetic stirrer for 96h at room temperature. The decellularization efficiency of SPE was analyzed by histological examination, DAPI staining, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), quantification of DNA hydroxyproline and hemocompatibility determination. Further, these acellular caprine dermal scaffolds were transplanted on full thickness skin wounds of group III New Zealand white rabbits. The wounds were left open in group I (Sham) and reconstructed by autograft in group II (n = 6 in each group). Continuous agitation of native caprine dermal tissues in 5% SPE for 96 hours leads to complete decellularization without affecting the extracellular matrix architecture. Microscopic observation of decellularized samples did not show any nuclei. DNA quantity was reduced (p < .05) in decellularized samples and scaffolds were found to be hemocompatible. Complete healing was observed on day 28 in groups II and III. No significant difference was noted in IgG in all the groups. Quantitative assessment of MDA showed a significant increase in groups I and II. Our results suggested that the 5% SPE solution effectively decellularized the native caprine dermis and the scaffolds were well tolerated by the animals.

Theileria parva genetics, prevalence and vaccination practices in Zimbabwe and the African region and the prospects for vaccine development: a systematic review

INTRODUCTION

January disease causes the deaths of over 55,000 cattle valued at approximately US$ 17 million annually in Zimbabwe. The locally developed Boleni stabilate vaccine is in use for controlling the disease. In the present review, we show the current knowledge of the genetic variation and population structure of Theileria parva parasite and its implications on the epidemiology and control of the parasite in eastern and southern Africa, with a major emphasis on Zimbabwe.

METHODS

A systematic review was conducted to analyse the reports available in literature in order to map the Theileria parva genetic diversity profile. A total of 103 studies met the criteria for analysis and were included in the review.

RESULTS

The reports retrieved in this study show that East Coast fever and Corridor disease have been extensively sequenced to establish the parasite population genetic structure. One report described genetic diversity in January disease, with no sequencing tools included. The live sporozoite stabilate administered as infection without concurrent treatment remains the vaccination approach of choice in January disease.

DISCUSSION

The adoption of population genetics led to the determination of genotypes that were employed in the development of the Muguga cocktail vaccine. To date, vaccination against East Coast fever is reported to reduce mortality rate. The Boleni isolate remains in use for vaccination against uncharacterized populations of January disease in spite of increased mortality rates extensively reported from 2015 to date. There is need to adopt comparative genomics in vaccine development for a more effective vaccine.

Ehrlichia ruminantium (Ehrlichiaceae) infection rates and genotyping in Amblyomma species from southern Africa

Ticks are haematophagous ectoparasites of domestic and wild animals. With their vast geographical distribution and aptitude as vectors of a large variety of pathogens, they are ranked amongst the top two arthropod families of veterinary and medical concern. Amblyomma, the third largest genus in the Ixodidae, is important in southern Africa due to its vector competence for Ehrlichia ruminantium and other pathogens. Ehrlichia ruminantium, the causative agent of heartwater, a potentially lethal disease in ruminants, is classified as a notifiable disease by the World Organisation for Animal Health. Amblyomma species ticks were collected in five southern African countries from livestock and wildlife. They were morphologically identified to species level with taxonomic keys, and species identity was confirmed with molecular assays. Preliminary screening for E. ruminantium was conducted by targeting the pCS20 gene fragment. Genotyping of 39 E. ruminantium positives was obtained using Ampliseq technology. In total, 7,734 Amblyomma ticks were collected and identified as belonging to four species: Amblyomma eburneum, Amblyomma hebraeum, Amblyomma pomposum and Amblyomma variegatum. Ehrlichia ruminantium infection rates per country ranged from 7.1 % to 34.1 %. The genotyping analysis indicated the clustering of our sequences with strains Gardel, Welgevonden, Um Banein, Springbokfontein 4 and 2, Kwanyanga, and Blaauwkrans. The Ampliseq analysis was not effective in differentiating between strains found in southern Africa. This large study documents the genetic diversity and prevalence of E. ruminantium in ticks across southern Africa, highlighting implications for disease control and vaccine development.

Datura stramonium - A Dangerous Weed and Alternative Drug of Abuse: An Overview of Poisoning Cases in 21st Century

Datura stramonium is a well-known cosmopolitan weed known by several common names: thorn apple (due to the appearance of its fruits), Angel's trumpet (linked to its flowers), loco seed (referring to the hallucinogenic properties of its seeds), jimson weed (originating from the first recorded poisoning involving this plant), and apple of Peru (indicating the plant's origin). All parts of the plant contain the tropane alkaloids hyoscyamine, scopolamine, and atropine together with several minor alkaloids, which cause poisoning such as typical anticholinergic syndrome with neuropsychiatric effects. A review of 114 papers from various databases (Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, and Google Scholar) revealed that poisoning incidents involving this plant have been relatively common from 2001 to 2024. The analysis indicated that all cases of poisoning from D. stramonium can be categorized into two main groups: accidental and misuse. Accidental poisonings are primarily linked to the contamination of other crops in the field, leading to mass poisoning of humans and animals. They can also result from misidentifying the plant as another edible species, children's curiosity, and self-medication. On the other hand, misuse is typically associated with recreational drug use, suicide attempts, criminal activities, and magico-religious practices. To prevent poisoning from this plant, it is essential to eliminate the weed from fields, yards, gardens, and other disturbed areas. Additionally, it is important to educate the general public about the plant's appearance and the dangers associated with its consumption, particularly in the context of self-medication and recreational drug use.

Role of RB51 vaccine in cow milk contamination of traditional milk sales centers

Brucellosis poses a major health and economic challenge in endemic areas, especially in Iran. This study aimed to determine the strains and epidemiological features of Brucella isolated from raw milk at traditional milk sales centers in western Iran. A total of 208 raw milk samples were collected from 104 dairy sales centers in Hamadan province during two sampling periods in 2023. The Milk Ring Test (MRT), bacterial culture, and AMOS-PCR assays were utilised to detect Brucella. MRT yielded no positive results, whereas bacterial culture detected Brucella in 9 samples (4.3%). Of these, one sample contained B. abortus biovar 3; another had both B. melitensis biovar 1 and B. abortus biovar 3, while seven samples had the RB51 vaccine strain. AMOS-PCR detected Brucella in 3.8% (8/208) of the samples. Most positive samples, mainly of the RB51 strain, were found in Hamadan, representing 44.5% of cases. MRT showed perfect specificity but no sensitivity compared to culture, while PCR demonstrated high sensitivity, specificity, and overall agreement, making it a more reliable diagnostic tool. The presence of Brucella RB51 in milk suggests that vaccinated cows may excrete the strain under certain conditions, posing a potential risk to human health if unpasteurized dairy is consumed. This emphasizes the need for better brucellosis prevention and control measures in endemic regions, particularly to protect against the risks related to consuming raw milk from vaccinated cows.

Antibiotic residues in animal products in Hatay, Turkey

There are many studies, both abroad and in Turkey, on the detection of antibiotic residues in animal products. However, studies on this subject in the Hatay region are rare. Within the scope of this study, the presence of 14 types of antibiotic residues (ampicillin, amoxycillin, demeclocycline, doxycycline, enrofloxacin, chlortetracycline, novobiocin, oxytetracycline, penicillin G, streptomycin, sulphadimethoxine, sulphamethazine, tetracycline, and tylosin) in samples from animal products such as beef, poultry, milk, and eggs sold unbranded in Hatay were investigated using HPLC. Total antibiotic residues were between 0.257 and 0.891 mg kg-1 in poultry, between 0.357 and 0.971 mg kg-1 in mutton, between 0.077 and 0.218 mg kg-1 in beef, between 0.591 and 1.985 mg L-1 in milk, and between 0.006 and 1.605 mg kg-1 in egg samples. Antibiotic residues were detected in all samples examined. This shows that some manufacturers are still careless regarding the correct application of antibiotics.

Evaluation of phytochemicals and essential oils of Cupressus semprevirens in controlling cattle tick Rhipicephalus annulatus (Acari: Ixodidae)

BACKGROUND

Cupressus sempervirens is one of the conifer plants, that is used as an antimicrobial, antioxidant, anthelminthic, and many other health purposes. Rhipicephalus annulatus is one of the hard tick genera affecting the production and health of domestic animals in Egypt. Extensive use of chemical acaricides in the management of ticks caused acaricide resistance, environmental contamination, residues in meat and milk, and harmful effects on non-target species. For these reasons, there is an urgent need to create efficient, environmentally friendly acaricides. This work aimed to assay the essential oils and establish the phytochemical analysis of C. sempervirens extract, its effects against the semi-engorged females of R. annulatus, and discuss their possible control effects.

RESULTS

Using the spray-dip method by C. sempervirens ethanol, methanol, distal water, and chloroform extracts at different concentrations (10-50%), revealed a decrease in the percentage of mobile female R. annulatius ticks, and increased mortality proportionally with days after treatments (14 days) and/or extract concentrations (10-50%). The ethanol extracts showed their strongest acaricidal effect, where the female mortality percentage reached 100% using all concentrations at the end of the examined period. In addition, the estimated LC50 and LC95 of C. sempervirens ethanolic extract were recorded as the lowest values (12.2% and 17%, respectively) after 14 days of treatment compared with other extract types. The 50% ethanolic extract of C. sempervirens (the most effective one) revealed the presence of bioactive metabolites i.e. flavonoids, tannins, and carbohydrates (TSS). Also, its total antioxidant capacity and potential free-radical activity (DPPH) were estimated. Using GC-MS, the extracted oil revealed the presence of four major compounds i.e., Eicosapentaenoic acid (50.85%), 10,12-Docosadiynedioic acid (27.58%),10-Undecynoic acid (14.28%) and Palmitic acid (5.42%). The efficiency of all phytochemicals and essential oils was discussed in the current study.

CONCLUSION

The phytochemicals and essential oils found in C. sempervirens could enhance our understanding and help in developing potential strategies for controlling ticks in general and for R. annulatus, in particular, using environmentally friendly agents.

Progress in diagnostic methods and vaccines for lumpy skin disease virus: a path towards understanding the disease

Lumpy skin disease (LSD) is caused by Lumpy Skin disease virus (LSDV) belonging to the genus Capripoxvirus (CaPV). The disease is widespread in Africa, the Middle East and Asia and has been present in Egypt since 1988. LSD is mainly transmitted by blood-sucking insects. LSD is clinically distinguished by a high fever, skin nodules, and swollen Lymph nodes. Detecting sub-clinical disease can be challenging however, prompt laboratory investigations are vital. Skin lesions are the main source of infection, although the virus is shed through many excretions and discharges including semen. Disease confirmation in clinical laboratories includes detection of viral nucleic acid, antigen and antibody levels. Simple, adaptable, and quick assays for detecting LSDV are required for control measures. Vaccination, together with controlled quarantine and vector control measures, may be beneficial for preventing disease spread. Presently, a range of live attenuated vaccines, have been used in the field with different levels of protection and side effects. With high levels of vaccination coverage, attenuated Neethling vaccines have successfully eradicated of LSDV in Europe. Inactivated LSDV vaccines have also been demonstrated effective in experimental infections. Furthermore, due to its large genome, LSDV is being exploited as a vaccine delivery element, generating an innovative composite with additional viral genes by DNA recombination. Vaccines developed on this basis have the potential to prevent a wide range of diseases and have been demonstrated to be effective in experimental settings. In this review, we emphasizethe advances in diagnostic methods and vaccines developed last decade, thereby providing a basis for future research into various aspects of LSDV and providing information for possibility of disease elimination.

Genomic Differences in Antimicrobial Resistance and Virulence Among Key Salmonella Strains of Serogroups B and D1 in Brazilian Poultry

Salmonella is a significant threat to Brazilian poultry, causing economic losses and public health risks. This study analyzed 15 Salmonella isolates along with 45 retrieved complete genomes, including serovars Gallinarum, Pullorum, Enteritidis, Typhimurium, and Heidelberg. Biochemical characterization, antimicrobial susceptibility testing, whole-genome sequencing, and comparative genomics were performed. The studied strains exhibited high levels of antimicrobial resistance, particularly to tilmicosin, penicillin/novobiocin, nalidixic acid, and streptomycin. Genomic analysis revealed diverse virulence factors and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs), with zoonotic strains showing higher virulence compared to avian-adapted strains. Multiple plasmid types carrying ARGs were identified, highlighting the potential for horizontal gene transfer. Pangenomic and phylogenomic analyses differentiated Salmonella strains from serogroup D1 from those from serogroup B. These findings emphasize the need for comprehensive surveillance and control measures to mitigate the impact of Salmonella on both animal and human health in Brazil.

Genotypic profile of Staphylococcus spp., Enterococcus spp., and E. coli colonizing dogs, surgeons, and environment during the intraoperative period: a cross-sectional study in a veterinary teaching hospital in Brazil

AIMS

This prospective cross-sectional study aimed to determine the occurrence of resistance genes and genetic diversity in Staphylococcus spp., Enterococcus spp., and Escherichia coli isolated from dogs' superficial surgical site (SS), surgeons' hands, and the operating room (OR) during the intraoperative period.

METHODS

Thirty dogs undergoing clean/clean-contaminated (G1, n = 20) and contaminated surgeries (G2, n = 10), along with eight surgeons, were included in the study. Specimens were collected using sterile swabs, transported in 0.1% peptone salt solution, and spread onto blood agar. Environmental samples were collected through passive exposure using BHI agar plates. Seventy-five isolates were selected and classified using MALDI-TOF MS. Resistance genes were screened via PCR: tet(M), ermA, aacA-aphD, blaZ, mecA, blaTEM-1, blaSHV, blaSHV-1, blaCTX-M-1, 3 e 15, blaCTX-M-2, blaCMY-2, mcr1, mcr2, mcr3, mcr4, and ndm. Genetic diversity was assessed through PFGE analysis using SmaI and XbaI restriction enzymes, with clustering performed by the UPGMA method. The chi-square test compared the frequency of resistance gene detected.

RESULTS

Staphylococcus pseudintermedius (83.33%), Enterococcus spp. (52.63%), and E. coli (62.50%) were more frequently isolated from dogs' skin, while coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS; 62.50%) were more frequent in the OR. Resistance genes detected in Staphylococcus spp. included blaZ (79.17%), mecA (43.75%), tet(M) (41.67%), and aacA-aphD (25%). Among Enterococcus spp., tet(M) (78.95%) and blaZ (10.53%) were identified. S. pseudintermedius harbored tet(M) and aacA-aphD genes more frequently than CoNS. No E. coli isolates tested positive for the investigated genes. Twenty-four PFGE banding patterns were observed in CoNS (24/24), 15 in S. pseudintermedius (15/24), 4 in E. coli (4/8), and 7 in Enterococcus spp. (7/19). Genetically related S. pseudintermedius and E. coli were obtained from SS and OR in G2. Seven indistinguishable Enterococcus spp. were identified across different procedures and patients.

CONCLUSION

Our study revealed high rates of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus spp. and tetracycline-resistant Enterococcus spp. colonizing the environment in a veterinary teaching hospital in Brazil. PFGE analysis indicated a high diversity of CoNS and Enterococcus spp. Genetically related strains in S. pseudintermedius, Enterococcus spp., and E. coli emphasize the importance of effective infection control policies to minimize the spread of resistant bacteria.

Impact of high proviral load on milk production, reproduction and subclinical diseases in dairy cows infected with bovine leukemia virus

Introduction

Bovine Leukemia Virus (BLV) prevalence remains high in dairy cattle in North America. Quantifying the proviral load (PVL) in BLV-positive cows can be used to control this disease in herds where BLV is prevalent by focusing culling of high PVL animals to reduce the risk of transmission. The impact of high BLV PVL on dairy cows' performance is not well established. The objective of this study was to assess the effect of high PVL status on milk production, occurrence of subclinical ketosis or mastitis, or fertility in BLV-infected cows.

Methods

Twenty-five herds from the three Maritime provinces in Atlantic Canada were enrolled in this study. BLV infected cows were first identified by individual milk or serum testing. A validated quantitative qPCR was used to quantify the PVL in cows with positive BLV antibody results. Parity, 305-day milk production, annual geometric average somatic cell count, fat-to-protein ratio in milk on the first test post-calving, days in milk at first service, and calving-to-conception interval were collected from DairyComp305 software. Two-level mixed multivariable regression models were used to assess the relationship between BLV PVL and milk production, subclinical mastitis and ketosis and reproduction performance.

Results

High PVL was strongly associated with reduced milk production (387 kg and 431 kg) and reproduction performance (calving-to-conception interval lengthened by 50 days and 49 days), and higher odds of subclinical mastitis (Odds ratio = 2.38 and 2.48), when compared to BLVpositive cows with a low PVL and BLV-negative cows, respectively.

Conclusion

These results support implementing a control program to prioritize culling high PVL cows.

Detection and molecular characterisation of fowl adenovirus associated with inclusion body hepatitis and hydropericardium syndrome in Uganda

Fowl Adenovirus (FAdV) infections and associated clinical conditions are of major economic significance in broiler chickens but have never been reported in Uganda and East Africa. Between July 2020 and June 2021, 120 farms submitted chicken diagnostic samples to Central Diagnostic Laboratory (CDL), Makerere University, Uganda, of which FAdV infections were suspected in 19 flocks during necropsy. Following bacteriology, histopathology and Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), FAdV infections were confirmed in ten flocks. The 10 flocks were aged between 9 and 24 days. They had a history of sudden onset of depression, anorexia and huddling together and high mortality rates (range = 12%-89%). Necropsy revealed hepatomegaly with pale yellow discolourations, multiple petechial haemorrhages, icterus and necrosis. Hydropericardium was evident in nine of the 10 flocks but was more frequent in a flock which had 89% mortality rate. Histopathology revealed multifocal hepatocytic necrosis and diffuse hepatocytic spherical vacuolations with large basophilic inclusion bodies. Confirmation of the FAdV infections was undertaken using two diagnostic PCRs on liver samples which targeted 590 bp and 900 bp conserved segments of the hexon gene, respectively. PCR-restriction enzyme analysis of the 900 bp amplicons categorized the viruses into serotypes 5 and 8. Sanger sequencing of the 900 bp amplicons and phylogenetic analysis clustered the FAdVs among the D and E species. This study presents the first report of FAdV in Uganda and in East Africa. FAdV infections should be included among differential diagnoses in broiler flocks. Further surveillance to determine the spread of the disease in poultry is recommended.

Global epidemiology of high priority and pandemic Pseudomonas aeruginosa in pets, livestock, wild, and aquatic animals: a systematic review and meta-analysis

High-priority and international high-risk Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) are emergent strains. Here, we performed the first systematic review and meta-analysis of studies that reported the frequency of PA, carbapenem (CARBR), and colistin (COLR) resistant PA in healthy and sick livestock (A), pets (B), wild (C), and aquatic animals (D) from January 2013 to January 2023, globally. Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, 57 cross-sectional and eight prospective studies were found eligible. Random-effect models were used to determine the pooled prevalences. Phylogenetic analyses based on core-genome single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were performed using CSI Phylogeny 1.4. The overall pooled prevalence of PA, COLR-PA, and CARBR-PA were 18.6%, 4%, and 11.7%, respectively. Wild animals had the highest pooled prevalence of PA, 33.5%. The pooled prevalence of COLR was significantly higher in PA strains from sick than healthy animals (P < 0.0001). Furthermore, COLR was significantly highest in PA strains from wild animals, 9.8% [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.8-58.9], while CARBR was highest in PA strains from pets, 14.8% (95% CI: 6.7-29.8). Seven (ST235, ST111, ST233, ST244, ST357, ST308, and ST277) of the 10 high-risk CARBR-PA clones carrying ExoS/U were reported in animals. The SNP-based phylogenetic analysis of 23 genomes of CARBR-PA from animals obtained from publicly available databases revealed two closely related blaGES-carrying strains (<100 SNPs) in sick pets, suggesting a transmission event. A higher frequency of high-risk carbapenem than colistin-resistant PA strains exists in animals. These findings highlight the roles of different animal species, especially pets and wild animals in the persistence and dissemination of high-priority PA.

Brucellosis in humans caused by Brucella canis: A scoping review

Background

Brucella canis is a potential cause of brucellosis in humans, but this disease has been poorly characterized.

Procedure

A scoping review was completed.

Results

The review yielded 24 studies that described clinical B. canis infection in 68 individuals. The median age was 32 y (range: 17 mo to 71 y). Fever, fatigue, headache, chills, and malaise predominated.Specific treatments were reported for 30 individuals. A tetracycline (tetracycline, doxycycline, or minocycline) was the sole treatment or part of a combination treatment for most (21/30, 70%) individuals, followed by rifampin (9/30, 30%), trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (7/30, 23%), and an aminoglycoside (gentamicin, streptomycin) (7/30, 23%). Clinical outcome was reported for 35 individuals. No mortalities were reported.A known or suspected source of exposure was reported for 56 cases; 45 (80%) were linked to dogs and 11 (20%) to laboratory exposure. Contact with pet dogs that had aborted or with aborted fetuses accounted for 31% of the canine exposures.

Conclusion and clinical relevance

Brucellosis attributed to B. canis can cause a wide range of clinical presentations in humans, but was similar to brucellosis caused by other Brucella spp. This nonspecific nature highlights the importance of identifying risk factors for exposure, to determine whether B. canis infection should be considered.

Heritability of sudden cardiac death in Thoroughbred racehorses

BACKGROUND

Sudden cardiac death (SCD) is an important cause of exercise-associated fatalities in Thoroughbred racehorses. Equine deaths share similarities with fatalities in human athletes that result from inherited cardiac disease. Whilst genetic causes have been postulated in horses, these have not been confirmed and heritability of SCD has not previously been estimated in Thoroughbred racehorses.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the heritability of SCD in a sample population of Thoroughbred racehorses.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective case-control study.

METHODS

Steward and post-mortem reports of Thoroughbred racehorses in Australia between 2007 and 2020 were reviewed to identify horses with SCD. Control horses were randomly selected from races in which SCD occurred or from races on the date of the case fatality. A five-generation integrated pedigree chart was collected for each horse. Estimates of heritability were obtained using an animal model in the ASReml-R program with variance components estimated assuming SCD was normally distributed, and on the logit transformed scale. Inbreeding coefficients were calculated and the risk of producing SCD-affected progeny was calculated for stallions that sired ≥5 individuals in the case-control population.

RESULTS

Ninety-three horses with SCD and 465 control horses were identified. Heritability on the underlying scale was 0.15 ± 0.09 (logit animal) and 0.24 ± 0.12 (normal animal). Inbreeding coefficients were not significantly different between groups. Of the 16 first generation sires that appeared ≥5 times in the case-control data set, two sires more frequently produced affected progeny (OR 7.95-10.41).

MAIN LIMITATIONS

Challenges in definitively confirming SCD may lead to misclassification of some cases. Some control horses may have not been exposed to environmental influences of SCD. Case numbers are low and the studied population may not represent the entire Thoroughbred genetic pool.

CONCLUSION

The heritability of SCD in this population was relatively low. However, individual stallions appear more likely to produce affected progeny. Further studies are required to understand the genetic and environmental influences that contribute to disease expression.

Yearling laryngeal function in Thoroughbreds that underwent a laryngoplasty differs from controls

BACKGROUND

Yearling laryngeal function (YLF) is frequently assessed at the time of sale and the outcomes of these assessments can have significant economic implications. The YLF of horses that subsequently underwent a prosthetic laryngoplasty (PL) is unknown.

OBJECTIVES

We hypothesised horses with YLF ≥grade II.2 would be at increased risk of requiring PL, compared with YLF

STUDY DESIGN

Case-control.

METHODS

There were 150 PL cases from 2019 to 2021 with an available yearling post-sale videoendoscopic examination and 600 controls. Two observers unaware of the outcome graded YLF using the Havemeyer system. The risk of PL for each YLF grade was calculated using multivariable conditional logistic regression.

RESULTS

The proportions of each YLF grade in the control group and PL group, respectively, were grade I: 25.8% and 13.3%, grade II.1: 54.3% and 35.3%, grade II.2: 16.7% and 26%, grade III.1: 3% and 20.7%, grade III.2: 0.2% and 3.3%, grade III.3: 0% and 0.7%, grade IV: 0% and 0.7%. The odds ratio (OR, 95% confidence interval) of requiring PL compared with the referent grade I were: grade II.1: 1.2 (0.7, 2.2, p = 0.5), grade II.2: 3.4 (1.8, 6.1, p < 0.001), grade III.1: 13.8 (6.0, 31.6, p < 0.001), grade III.2: 55.5 (10.3, 299.2, p < 0.001), grade III.3: 2930,000 (398173.7, 21 600,000, p < 0.001), grade IV: 26300,000 (3 420 000, 202 000 000, p < 0.001). Yearling LF ≥grade II.2 had an OR of 4.61 (3.0, 7.1, p < 0.001) compared with

MAIN LIMITATIONS

Lack of performance data to compare the PL and control groups. The control group was not 'disease-free' and may have developed disease and been retired or undergone surgery elsewhere.

CONCLUSIONS

Three-quarters of the PL group had ≤grade II.2 YLF, demonstrating deterioration in LF post-sale was common. The risk of requiring PL increased from YLF grade II.2 upwards.

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Key Words

• horse
• larynx
• sale
• surgery
• upper airway

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MESH Headings

• Animals
• Horses
• Laryngoplasty/veterinary
• Horse Diseases/surgery
• Case-Control Studies
• Male
• Female
• Larynx/surgery
• Laryngeal Diseases/veterinary
• Laryngeal Diseases/surgery

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Grants Collapse

Affiliation(s)

Josephine L. Hardwick School of Animal and Veterinary SciencesUniversity of AdelaideRoseworthySouth AustraliaAustralia School of Veterinary MedicineMurdoch UniversityMurdochWestern AustraliaAustralia
Benjamin J. Ahern School of Veterinary ScienceUniversity of QueenslandGattonQueenslandAustralia
Kylie L. Crawford Mater Research InstituteUniversity of QueenslandBrisbaneQueenslandAustralia
Kate J. Allen School of Veterinary SciencesUniversity of BristolBristolUK
Samantha H. Franklin School of Animal and Veterinary SciencesUniversity of AdelaideRoseworthySouth AustraliaAustralia

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Histopathological evaluation of Capillaria hepatica (Bancroft, 1893) in Cricetomys gambianus (Waterhouse, 1840)

Hepatic capillariasis is a global neglected zoonotic disease with small rodents and lagomorphs as host animals although cases have occurred in over 140 mammals, including in humans to underscore its health implications to both animals and humans. A total of 20 free-living Cricetomys gambianus were sampled from the wild within the Federal Capital Territory, Nigeria, for the presence of and effects of Capillaria hepatica between August 2023 - May 2024. The lungs, liver, spleen, and kidneys of the sampled rats were promptly harvested, observed and recorded, and fixed in 10% formalin for histopathological evaluations after humane animal sacrifice according to standard procedures. There were no obvious gross lesions while cellular changes occurred only in the liver that were characterized by the presence of clusters of parasitic eggs with hepatic necrosis and inflammatory responses. The presence of the ellipsoidal-shaped and double layered straited shelled-eggs with operculum and the hepatic cellular changes led to a definitive diagnosis of Capillaria hepatica with a 10% prevalence rate. The findings highlighted the health risk to the animal and the human consumers of infected. Cricetomys gambianus whose meat is considered a delicacy within the study area and other parts of the world. Outside the probable role of host animal's adaptation strategy being responsible for the non-typical granulomatous inflammation and hepatic septal fibrotic cellular changes, there is a need for more studies to further elucidate the pathogenesis of the disease condition in this particular animal species in the patho-epidemiology of hepatic capillariasis within the study area.

Genetic characterization of diagnostic epitopes of cardiac troponin I in African rhinoceros

African rhinoceros undergo chemical immobilization and prolonged transport during translocations for conservation purposes and, hence, experience several pathophysiologic changes, including skeletal muscle injury. Potential concurrent myocardial injury has not been investigated due to a lack of validated immunoassays. We aimed to use inferred cardiac troponin I (cTnI) amino acid sequences of southern white (Ceratotherium simum simum) and southern-central black (Diceros bicornis minor) rhinoceros to assess the potential usefulness of several commercial cTnI immunoassays for detecting cTnI in African rhinoceros. We extracted RNA from the myocardium of deceased rhinoceros (2 white, 1 black rhinoceros) followed by primer design, cDNA synthesis via RT-PCR, and Sanger sequencing. The inferred cTnI amino acid sequences were obtained from the mRNA transcript sequences. The homology of epitope binding sites recognized by capture and detection antibodies in 6 human immunoassays was visually evaluated using aligned inferred rhinoceros cTnI amino acid sequences. Percentage identity between white and black rhinoceros cDNA nucleotide sequences was 99%; inferred amino acid sequences were identical. There were 5 amino acid differences between humans and rhinoceros in the epitope binding sites of immunoassay antibodies; 5 assays contained antibodies against epitopes that were not conserved. For one assay, the single capture antibody targeted a short heterologous epitope (residue 87-91), and cross-reactivity with rhinoceros cTnI was deemed unlikely. For the other 5 assays, complete antibody-epitope homology, or the inclusion of multiple detection or capture antibodies, or targeting of long epitopes, indicated that these assays could be suitable for further investigation of cTnI measurement in African rhinoceros.

Aortic body tumor with intracardiac metastasis in a dog

A 9-y-old, spayed female, non-brachycephalic mixed-breed dog was presented with progressive abdominal distension and diarrhea of <24 h duration. An echocardiogram revealed nodular masses in the pericardium and myocardium, particularly near the auricles. Diagnostic and therapeutic pericardiocentesis failed to improve the dog's status, and the owner elected euthanasia. The autopsy revealed numerous nodules within the pericardium, heart base, and myocardium of the left and right ventricles. Histopathology revealed the presence of a neuroendocrine tumor, immunopositive for chromogranin A and negative for synaptophysin and calcitonin, supporting the diagnosis of aortic body tumor with intracardiac metastasis.

Veterinarians approach towards antimicrobial stewardship and one health: A survey study

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the top 10 global public health threats. One Health approach is needed to tackle antimicrobial resistance as most antimicrobials used in animals are also used in humans and affect the environment. Although the knowledge and attitudes of personnel in the human healthcare sector are studied more frequently in Gujarat, veterinarians' approaches also play a pivotal role in attaining antimicrobial stewardship. Thus, an online survey was conducted to understand the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of veterinarians regarding AMR and antimicrobial stewardship in Gujarat. A total of 691 respondents included 300 government veterinarians (44 %), 258 cooperative veterinarians (37 %), 45 private veterinarians (5 %), 69 MVD GVK veterinarians (10 %), and 19 others (4 %). Several veterinarians (77 %) believe that farmers' misuse of antimicrobials contributes significantly to AMR. According to 78 % of respondents, the inappropriate use of antimicrobials in food-producing animals contributes to AMR, which can be reduced by vaccines, biosecurity measures, and hygiene (79 %). As per 86 % of the responders, antimicrobial stewardship is important, and 81 % educate farmers on the rational use of antimicrobials. Though 92 % of veterinarians agreed that culture and antimicrobial sensitivity testing (AST) should be done as frequently as possible to guide antimicrobial usage, only 4 % always, and 68 % sometimes send samples for AST. However, 31 % think it is acceptable to commence antimicrobial therapy without a confirmatory diagnosis. The study findings suggest that AMR awareness among farmers, increased provision of laboratory services, and AST at affordable costs should be developed to combat the development of AMR.

Liver copper concentration dynamics with different methods of injectable copper supplementation in dairy cows in New Zealand

AIMS

To compare the responses of liver Cu concentrations in dairy cows between three forms of injectable Cu supplementation and a negative control group.

METHODS

Across two dairy farms in North Canterbury, New Zealand, 80 mid-lactation dairy cows (n = 28 and 52 per farm) were randomly allocated to four treatment groups: (a) 100-mg or (b) 200-mg dose of Cu administered as Ca Cu EDTA; (c) 75-mg dose of Cu as disodium Cu EDTA combined with Se, Zn, and Mn; or (d) no treatment (negative control). Each treatment group contained 20 cows. Groups were balanced for age, plasma Cu and pre-treatment liver Cu concentration. Blood samples and liver biopsies were collected prior to treatment. Six liver biopsies were performed on the same cow over a period of 70 days and the concentration of liver Cu was measured over time and compared to pre-treatment baseline. A mixed, multivariable, linear regression model was constructed to determine the effect of treatment on the change in liver Cu concentration compared to pre-treatment concentrations, accounting for repeated measurements taken from each cow.

RESULTS

There was a difference in the distribution of pre-treatment liver Cu concentration between farms (p = 0.008), with medians of 1,400 (IQR 1,200-1,625) and 1,050 (IQR 805-1,425) µmol/kg on Farms 1 and 2, respectively. There was an interaction between treatment group, study day, and farm, with a treatment effect confirmed only on Farm 2. In the final model, the predicted change in liver Cu concentration (compared to pre-treatment concentrations) among cows on Farm 2 that were treated with 200 mg of Ca Cu EDTA was significantly higher than that of control cows on Days 3, 14, 28 and 42, peaking on Day 14 with a difference of 325.35 (95% CI = 97.00-554.03) µmol/kg. The study found no associations between changes in liver Cu concentration and age or prior plasma Cu concentration. The intraclass correlation coefficient was 0.57 (95% CI = 0.45-0.66), indicating the proportion of variability in changes in liver Cu concentration attributable to inter-cow variation.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE

This study shows there are differences in response to injectable Cu supplementation at the farm level and wide variation in liver Cu among cows from the same farm. On one farm, a 200-mg dosage of Ca Cu EDTA significantly increased liver Cu concentration for at least 42 days.

Targeted Nutritional Metabolomic Analysis of Marine Species (Tursiops truncatus, Phoca vitulina, Otaria flavescens and Pygoscelis papua)

Ecological nutrition aims to unravel the extensive web of nutritional links that drive animals in their interactions with their habitat. Metabolomic profiling of species could increase the knowledge of their ecology, as well as allowing us to better understand the interactions of environment, including distribution, availability of food and fitness of the species, among others. Metabolomic profile is affected by several causes such as nutrition, physiological status, metabolism and species. Thus, the main aim of this work will be to provide, for the first time, values of the nutritional metabolome profile in marine species, as well as to study the differences in the metabolomic profile due to the classification group. To achieve this, blood samples from marine animals (n = 55) were used in this experiment, including Gentoo penguin (Pygoscelis papua), Patagonian sea lion (Otaria flavescens), Harbour seal (Phoca vitulina) and Bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus). Blood samples were analysed to determine the nutritional metabolites, specifically non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA), glucose, triglyceride, uric acid, cholesterol, albumin, total protein and inorganic phosphorous (iP). Pygoscelis papua exhibited the most statistically significant differences compared to the other groups, showing higher levels of plasma glucose, triglycerides, uric acid, and cholesterol, and lower levels of albumin, total protein, urea, and iP relative to the average values (simple means) observed in the other species. Also, it can be concluded that nutritional metabolome of Tursiops truncatus is different from that of Otaria flavescens, due to the differences in urea and albumin. These results show the potential of metabolomics to elucidate the relationship between metabolism and external factors in species. However, more molecular ecology studies are necessary to deepen the study of the interrelationships between the environment and metabolism, with the aim of including this tool in specific programmes for conservation and biological study.

Diagnosis of bovine rotavirus: an overview of currently available methods

Bovine rotavirus (BRV) is a significant pathogen that causes diarrhea in calves, profoundly impacting the cattle industry and resulting in substantial economic losses. Currently, the established diagnostic approaches for BRV primarily include etiological methods, such as electron microscopy, virus isolation, and culture; serological methods, including enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), latex agglutination test (LAT), and immunofluorescence techniques; and molecular biological methods, such as reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR), and loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP), as well as next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology. This review summarizes the current diagnostic methods for BRV, discusses their advantages and disadvantages, and presents future perspectives on BRV diagnosis, aiming to provide valuable references for the effective diagnosis and control of BRV-related diseases.

Anthropogenic reverberations on the gut microbiome of dwarf chameleons (Bradypodion)

Exploration of the microbiome has been referred to as a final frontier in biological research. This is due to its precedence for generating insights on the holistic functioning of organismal biology by exploring the interactions between hosts and their associated symbiotic organisms. The microbiomes of many vertebrate groups still require exploration to advance current knowledge and fill previous knowledge gaps. This study generated initial descriptions of the bacterial microbiomes of three species of dwarf chameleon (Bradypodion) from the 16S rRNA gene region targeting the V3 and V4 hypervariable regions. This led to the successful identification of 1,073 and 4,502 independent amplicon sequence variants from buccal swab and faecal material samples, respectively. This newly acquired information is intended as a baseline for future work incorporating holobiont information. The diversity of microbial taxa suggests that the total dwarf chameleon microbiome is similar to other squamates investigated to date, as well as chelonians (Testudines). Microbial frequency differences were noted in comparison to crocodilians (Archosauria) and mammalian groups. Furthermore, this study aimed to examine the influence of habitat transformation on the composition of the microbiome in dwarf chameleons as each of the study species occupy both urban and natural habitats. Given that most urban habitats are highly transformed, the expectation was that microbial assemblages of the gastro-intestinal tracts of all three Bradypodion species would show significant differences between populations (i.e., natural, or urban). It was found, however, that the level of effect was contingent on species: B. melanocephalum populations showed noticeable microbiome differences between urban and natural populations; B. thamnobates showed variations in microbial community dispersions between populations; and B. setaroi showed no significant microbiome differences based on diversity metrics although some frequency differences, in microbiome composition, were observed between populations. We suggest that the magnitude of difference between the habitats occupied by the populations is a factor, given the apparent disparity between the natural and urban habitats for B. melanocephalum as compared to the other two species.

Evaluation of lateral flow devices for rabies diagnosis in decomposed animal brain samples

BACKGROUND

The Direct Fluorescent Antibody Test (DFAT), the standard rabies confirmatory test, is less sensitive when used with decomposed brain samples, a frequent issue in rabies-endemic regions. This study evaluates the diagnostic accuracy of the ADTEC lateral flow device (LFD) for rabies post-mortem diagnosis using decomposed brain samples.

METHODS

We used 34 animal heads submitted with a cold chain to an animal diagnostic laboratory located in central Philippines including 26 DFAT-positive and eight DFAT-negative samples. After defrosting the heads, the entire brain was extracted and left at room temperature to induce decomposition. The decomposition status was scored after 1 day, 3 days, and 4 days at room temperature. DFAT and LFD were performed using the brain samples at each timepoint to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy. The day of animal head submission to the laboratory was defined as day 0, and the DFAT results were used as the reference. Image analysis was performed to measure the intensity of the LFD-positive bands.

RESULTS

The decomposition scores dropped by day 3 and day 4, with all samples exhibiting signs of advanced decomposition. The sensitivity of DFAT was 96.2% (95% confidence interval 80.4-99.9) on day 1, but dropped to 61.5% (P < 0.01) by day 3 and further decreased to 38.5% (20.2-59.4) by day 4. In contrast, the sensitivities and specificities of LFD on day 1, day 3, and day 4 were consistently 100% (86.3-100) and 100% (63.1-100), respectively. Visual examination of the test band intensity on the LFD suggested that the intensity of the positive bands increased as decomposition progressed.

CONCLUSIONS

ADTEC LFDs demonstrated consistently high sensitivity and specificity with decomposed brain samples observed up to day 4, making them a reliable screening tool for rabies post-mortem diagnosis in decomposed brain samples, particularly in resource-limited settings. Furthermore, LFD positive bands became more distinct as decomposition advanced.

Clinical and Clinicopathological Features of 108 Dogs Infected with Babesia gibsoni in Hong Kong

Babesia gibsoni is an intra-erythrocytic protozoan responsible for the most common arthropod-borne infection affecting dogs in Hong Kong. This study describes clinical findings and determines clinicopathological alterations in hematology, serum biochemistry, urinalysis, and coagulation profile of infected dogs. A retrospective analysis was conducted on 108 dogs presented to an emergency and specialty hospital in Hong Kong from 2012 to 2022. Each dog had a positive polymerase chain reaction (PCR) diagnosis and a complete medical record including documented results of a complete blood count (CBC) and a serum biochemistry profile. Moderate to marked thrombocytopenia and anemia were found in the majority of cases. Regenerative anemia with varying degrees of alterations of red blood cell indices, monocytosis, eosinopenia, prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time, hyperglobulinemia, elevated alkaline phosphatase (ALP), gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), proteinuria, and bilirubinuria were the major findings in infected dogs. The findings of this study enhance our understanding on when to consider B. gibsoni as a differential diagnosis to initiate molecular investigation and subsequent treatment specific to the infection.

Sustainable management of tick infestations in cattle: a tropical perspective

The increasing challenge of tick infestations in cattle production systems calls for innovative and sustainable solutions. This article explores the diverse ethnoveterinary practices and livestock farming systems prevalent in tropical regions, capitalizing on the characteristic biodiversity, to provide valuable insights and lessons for tick management at a global scale. Additionally, leveraging the genetic diversity of indigenous cattle breeds presents a promising approach for reducing reliance on chemical acaricides and fostering eco-friendly practices. While genomic selection is the cornerstone for addressing the polygenic nature of tick resistance, complementary genomic tools such as marker-assisted selection (MAS) can still play a valuable role. Integrating MAS and genomic tools could facilitate the development of tick-resistant cattle breeds, benefiting both tropical and temperate regions. Addressing challenges such as limited genomic resources, region-specific phenotyping methods, and the need for robust data infrastructure is essential for achieving tick management through genetic selection. Thus, tropical countries can contribute not only to their own livestock agriculture but also to global efforts in sustainable tick management. While some integrated approaches exist, further research is needed to objectively evaluate and optimize the combination of these different management strategies to effectively address tick challenges.

The Effects of Milk and Posterior Intestinal Microorganisms on the Lactation Performance of Dual-Purpose Cattle (Bos taurus) Revealed by 16S rRNA Sequencing

The aim of this research was to employ 16S rRNA high-throughput sequencing to thoroughly explore the interplay between milk and hindgut microbial communities and the effects of microorganisms in milk and the hindgut on the dairy quality of XJBC and CSC. In this study, 96 XJBC milk samples, 94 XJBC hindgut samples, 100 CSC milk samples, and 93 CSC hindgut samples were collected for microbial community analysis. The 16S rRNA sequencing data revealed that the microbial species richness in the milk of CSC exceeded that of XJBC, whereas the opposite was true for the hindgut microbial communities. A chi-square test was conducted using SPSS 19.0. The milk and posterior intestinal microbiota between individuals were analyzed with the Pearson chi-square test, maximum likelihood ratio, and Fisher's exact test. Nongenetic factors substantially influenced microbial community dynamics in both milk and the hindgut. In the milk of dairy cows, a significant negative correlation was observed between one genus and milk protein production. Nine genera were significantly negatively correlated with milk fat production, whereas one genus was positively correlated. Additionally, six genera were negatively correlated with lactose production, and two genera exhibited positive correlations. Notably, Phascolarctobacterium and Turicibacter were identified as genera originating from the hindgut, which led to reduced milk quality. In the hindgut microbial community of dairy cows, seven genera were significantly negatively associated with milk fat production, whereas one genus was positively associated with milk fat production. These findings indicate that certain mammary microorganisms may migrate from the hindgut, either endogenously or exogenously, disrupting the equilibrium of the mammary microbial community in dairy cows and potentially leading to inflammation. By enhancing feeding conditions and standardizing production practices, the invasion of harmful flora into mammary tissues can be minimized, reducing the risk of inflammation and thereby preserving the health of dairy cows and enhancing milk quality.

Serological response to lumpy skin disease in recovered and clinically healthy vaccinated and unvaccinated cattle of Bangladesh

Lumpy skin disease (LSD) is one of the most economically important transboundary animal diseases that emerged in Bangladesh in 2019. It has a significant economic impact on household cattle owners in rural settings in Bangladesh. A cross-sectional study was undertaken in selected areas of the Mymensingh districts of Bangladesh between July 2021 and May 2023. A total of 1,161 blood samples were collected from 105 households and four herds comprising 904 and 257 cattle, respectively. The presence of LSD virus (LSDV) antibodies in serum was detected using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The overall seroprevalence of LSD in the study area during the sampling period was 26.2% (n = 304/1,161; 95% confidence interval: 4.90-10.20). Based on the disease status, the seroprevalence of the recovered animal was 40.07%, significantly higher than that of unvaccinated animals that had been in contact with affected cattle but never showed any visible clinical signs of LSD (23.27%), and the seroprevalence in cattle that were showing clinical signs when serum samples were collected (18.0%). Nonetheless, seroconversion in the vaccinated population lasted 6-12 months after vaccination, and animals that recovered natural infection also exhibited measurable seroconversion up to 6 months after exposure. The study demonstrated the seroprevalence of LSD in cattle kept in rural Bangladeshi households and the duration of antibody responses in animals recovered from natural LSD infection, cattle that were clinically healthy but had circulating LSDV in the herd, and animals vaccinated with vaccines containing goat pox virus or attenuated LSDV. The results of this study help in defining an effective and feasible vaccination strategy considering the duration of immunity after vaccination or natural LSD infection.

Evaluation of antibody titer and associated risk factors of goat pox vaccine against lumpy skin disease in crossbred buffaloes

Lumpy skin disease (LSD) is an infectious disease affecting large ruminants, caused by the lumpy skin disease virus (LSDV). It is characterized by symptoms such as hyperthermia, emaciation, lymphadenopathy, and skin nodules. Pregnant animals affected by LSD often experience abortions and may develop infertility syndrome, while affected males can become sterile. A live attenuated goat pox virus vaccine (GTPV) was administered to various groups of crossbred buffaloes. After vaccination, blood samples were collected from each group to analyze post-vaccination antibody titers. Additionally, vaccinated calves and buffaloes were monitored for growth, body temperature, blood profile, milk production and quality, and reproductive parameters. The study revealed an increase in antibody titer in the weeks following vaccination, with sustained levels for over 150 days before declining by 300 days. During the 7-day observational phase, the vaccinated calves and replacement heifers exhibited significant growth. There were no notable changes in body temperature or milk production in lactating buffaloes within 7 days post-vaccination. However, the buffalo category affected all blood profile indicators significantly (P < 0.05) except for MCHC (P > 0.05) after LSD vaccination. An interaction (P < 0.05) was observed between buffalo categories and days post-exposure for RBCs, HGB, HCT, and MCV values in vaccinated buffaloes. Reproductive parameters, including ovarian resumption, uterine involution rates, and synchronization rate, remained similar in both vaccinated and unvaccinated buffaloes. Overall, the use of the attenuated GTPV vaccine induces a considerable antibody titer without influencing general health or productive parameters, making it a safe and economical method for preventing LSD in buffaloes.

Genomic Mosaicism in Fowl Adenovirus 3 Strains

Fowl adenovirus D is the main cause of inclusion body hepatitis in chickens. Whole genome sequencing was carried out to enrich the genomic sequence database using field isolates of FAdV-D. Out of 44 newly determined genomes, 43 were classified into FAdV-2/-11 and 2 into FAdV-3; no FAdV-9 was identified. Whole-genome based phylogeny showed that FAdV-3 was more distantly related to FAdV 9 and FAdV-2/-11 than FAdV-9 and FAdV-2/-11 to each other. Whole-genome sequence homology analysis revealed that the full-length FAdV-3 genome harbored a ~12 kbp fragment of the genome that shared moderate sequence homology with representative strains of other FAdV-D serotypes but high relatedness with only the FAdV-3 strain whose full-genome is available in GenBank. A closer look onto the fiber and the penton genes of our FAdV-3 isolate identified putative recombination events; both the fiber and the penton coding genes shared fragments originating from FAdV-9. Of interest, ORF19 displayed a close relationship with the homologous genomic region of some FAdV-E strains (amino acid sequence homology, up to 82%). Thus, although FAdV-3 is classified into FAdV-D, the genomic structure of FAdV-3 appears to result from multiple heterotypic and heterologous recombination events. This study highlights the unique origin of FAdV-3.

Are there benefits of culture-based detection of Mycobacterium avium spp paratuberculosis over histopathology?

Paratuberculosis (Johne's disease) has devastating outcomes on ruminant health and impacts on national and international trade. The current work assessed the diagnostic value of the VersaTREK automated liquid culture system in isolating Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP) from faecal and intestinal tissue samples from ovine under South African conditions and compared it with the current method of choice, histopathological examination. Intestinal tissue and faecal samples from 111 sheep (including complete set from 104 slaughter sheep from flocks with a history of MAP infection as well as incomplete sample sets from 7 sheep) were analysed using the liquid culture method. One set of tissues was subjected to histopathological examination. Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) extracted from culture isolates was subjected to polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification using primers that target the IS900 regions of the MAP for species verification. Overall, the VersaTREK automated liquid culture in combination with IS900 PCR showed a comparable level of detection in tissues (12.6%) as histopathology (13.5%), but the detection rate for faecal samples was lower than for tissues (10.8%). A combination of histopathology and faecal culture increased the detection rate from 13.5% (n = 14/104) and 9.6% (n = 10/104), respectively, to 15.4% (n = 16/104).Contribution: Our findings highlight the diagnostic utility of the VersaTREK automated liquid culture system in detecting MAP in ovine samples collected both ante and postmortem. However, an inhibitory effect on the MAP isolation rate observed when the antibiotic cocktail was added to the culture medium warrants further investigation. The outcome of the study is beneficial in guiding the strategic planning of the nationwide control programme.

Intra-operative use of transesophageal echocardiography in dogs undergoing interventional procedures for pulmonic stenosis: a case series

Six dogs were presented for interventional treatment of pulmonic stenosis (balloon valvuloplasty or pulmonary stent implantation). Intra-operative transesophageal echocardiography was performed for subjective pulmonary valve assessment and to measure the transpulmonary pressure gradient. Balloon valvuloplasty was performed in two dogs; the remaining four dogs underwent pulmonary stent implantation. The reduction in pressure was assessed after balloon inflation/stent deployment by right heart catheterization and transesophageal echocardiography. In two patients, complete catheterization was not performed, and success was based solely on a reduction in the pressure gradient measured by transesophageal echocardiography. The procedure was completed successfully in all six dogs, with reduction in pressure measured by catheterization ranging from 47.0% to 96.8% (median: 78.6%) in four dogs and 47.3%-85.2% (median: 80.9%) measured by transesophageal echocardiography in all six dogs. No complications associated with transesophageal echocardiography were observed. In this case series, transesophageal echocardiography allowed subjective assessment of the pulmonic valve leaflets and measurement of annular diameter and transpulmonary pressure gradient. The reduction in transpulmonary pressure gradient seen with transesophageal echocardiography was comparable to the reduction documented on catheterization. Further studies are indicated to objectively assess the agreement between transesophageal echocardiography and catheterization measurements, but in these patients, transesophageal echocardiography allowed increased confidence in procedural success.

In Vitro Evaluation of Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Involvement in Feline Coronavirus Infection

Feline coronavirus (FCoV) is an alphacoronavirus (αCoV) that causes moderate or chronic asymptomatic infection in cats. However, in a single infected cat, FCoV can modify its cellular tropism by acquiring the ability to infect macrophages, resulting in the development of feline infectious peritonitis (FIP). In this context, to restrain the impact of FCoV infection, scientific research has focused attention on the development of antiviral therapies involving novel mechanisms of action. Recent studies have demonstrated that aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) signaling regulates the host response to different human and animal CoVs. Hence, the mechanism of action of AhR was evaluated upon FCoV infection in Crandell Feline Kidney (CRFK) and in canine fibrosarcoma (A72) cells. Following infection with feline enteric CoV (FECV), strain "München", a significant activation of AhR and of its target CYP1A1, was observed. The selective AhR antagonist CH223191 provoked a reduction in FCoV replication and in the levels of viral nucleocapsid protein (NP). Furthermore, the effect of the AhR inhibitor on the acidity of lysosomes in infected cells was observed. Our findings indicate that FCoV acts on viral replication that upregulates AhR. CH223191 repressed virus yield through the inhibition of AhR. In this respect, for counteracting FCoV, AhR represents a new target useful for identifying antiviral drugs. Moreover, in the presence of CH223191, the alkalinization of lysosomes in FCoV-infected CRFK cells was detected, outlining their involvement in antiviral activity.

DNA data (genome skims and metabarcodes) paired with chemical data demonstrate utility for retrospective analysis of forage linked to fatal poisoning of cattle

Prepared and stored feeds, fodder, silage, and hay may be contaminated by toxic plants resulting in the loss of livestock. Several poisonous plants have played significant roles in livestock deaths from forage consumption in recent years in the Western United States including Salvia reflexa. Metagenomic data, genome skims and metabarcodes, have been used for identification and characterization of plants in complex botanical matrices including diet composition of animals, mixed forages, and herbal products. Here, chemistry, genome skims, and metabarcoding were used to retrospectively describe the composition of contaminated alfalfa hay from a case of Salvia reflexa (lanceleaf sage) poisoning that killed 165 cattle. Genome skims and metabarcoding provided similar estimates of the relative abundance of the Salvia in the hay samples when compared to chemical methods. Additionally, genome skims and metabarcoding provided similar estimates of species composition in the contaminated hay and rumen contents of poisoned animals. The data demonstrate that genome skims and DNA metabarcoding may provide useful tools for plant poisoning investigations.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa: One Health approach to deciphering hidden relationships in Northern Portugal

AIMS

Antimicrobial resistance in Pseudomonas aeruginosa represents a major global challenge in public and veterinary health, particularly from a One Health perspective. This study aimed to investigate antimicrobial resistance, the presence of virulence genes, and the genetic diversity of P. aeruginosa isolates from diverse sources.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The study utilized antimicrobial susceptibility testing, genomic analysis for resistance and virulence genes, and multilocus sequence typing to characterize a total of 737 P. aeruginosa isolates that were collected from humans, domestic animals, and aquatic environments in Northern Portugal. Antimicrobial resistance profiles were analyzed, and genomic approaches were employed to detect resistance and virulence genes. The study found a high prevalence of multidrug-resistant isolates, including high-risk clones such as ST244 and ST446, particularly in hospital sources and wastewater treatment plants. Key genes associated with resistance and virulence, including efflux pumps (e.g. MexA and MexB) and secretion systems (T3SS and T6SS), were identified.

CONCLUSIONS

This work highlights the intricate dynamics of multidrug-resistant P. aeruginosa across interconnected ecosystems in Northern Portugal. It underscores the importance of genomic studies in revealing the mechanisms of resistance and virulence, contributing to the broader understanding of resistance dynamics and informing future mitigation strategies.

Bacterial blood microbiome of Mastomys rodents: implications for disease spill-over at the animal-human interface within the Bushbuckridge-East community, South Africa

The Bushbuckridge-East community in Mpumalanga Province, South Africa is bordered by nature reserves, including the Manyeleti Game Reserve. Murid rodents are prevalent in both Manyeleti and communal rangelands adjoining the community households. Although rodents are reservoir hosts for a broad range of viral, bacterial and parasitic pathogens, the rodent microbial diversity and transmission of zoonotic agents to humans in the community is understudied. In this study we investigated bacterial diversity in wild and commensal rodents sampled from different habitats. The 16S rRNA gene was amplified from DNA extracted from the blood of 24 wild Mastomys and one Steatomys sp. and subjected to PacBio circular consensus sequencing. As Bartonella species were dominant in the blood microbiome, gltA gene characterization was performed to delineate species. Rodents sampled from peri-urban and communal rangelands had higher proportions of Bartonella spp. [Hlalakahle (77.7%), Gottenburg (47.8%), Tlhavekisa (83.8%)] compared to those from the protected habitat (43.8%). Ehrlichia spp., Anaplasma spp., and Coxiella burnetii were detected at <1% of the sequence reads. Conventional PCR and sequencing validated the detection of Bartonella spp. with the first confirmation of Bartonella mastomydis infection in Mastomys in South Africa. Additionally, 317 mites, 90 fleas, 10 ticks and eight lice were collected from the rodents, providing evidence of possible vectors of the organisms detected. The detection of zoonotic agents in rodents in Bushbuckridge-East community, together with prior serological confirmation of Bartonella and Coxiella in non-malarial acute febrile patients from this community, highlights the possible risks that commensal rodents pose to human health.

Treatment of traumatic disruption of the suspensory apparatus in Thoroughbred racehorses at risk of proximal interphalangeal joint subluxation using a locking compression-distal femur plate for double arthrodesis

OBJECTIVE

To describe the outcome of metacarpophalangeal (MCPJ) and proximal interphalangeal joint (PIPJ) arthrodesis using a locking compression-distal femur plate (LCP-DFP) in Thoroughbred racehorses with traumatic disruption of the suspensory apparatus (TDSA) at risk of PIPJ subluxation.

STUDY DESIGN

Multicenter retrospective study.

ANIMALS

Twenty-six Thoroughbred racehorses.

METHODS

Records of Thoroughbred racehorses with TDSA that had undergone MCPJ and PIPJ arthrodesis using an LCP-DFP at three referral hospitals between 2020 and 2024 were reviewed for inclusion. The preoperative data collected included signalment, affected limb, and type of injury. All postoperative complications were recorded. Long-term outcomes were obtained from medical records and telephone interviews.

RESULTS

Nine females, 14 geldings, and three intact males with TDSA were treated via double arthrodesis using an LCP-DFP. The most common postoperative complications included support limb laminitis, incisional drainage, implant infection with osteomyelitis, and distal interphalangeal joint subluxation. No horses developed PIPJ subluxation. Twenty (76.9%) horses developed short-term complications. Thirteen (50%) horses survived long term (>6 months, range 6-32 months) and were reported to be pasture sound without receiving any analgesic or antiinflammatory medication.

CONCLUSION

Metacarpophalangeal and PIPJ arthrodesis using an LCP-DFP in racehorses resulted in a stable construct with no horses developing subluxation of the PIPJ joint postoperatively. Arthrodesis using an LCP-DFP was associated with a fair prognosis for pasture soundness.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Application of an LCP-DFP may prevent subluxation of the PIPJ; however, the prognosis is still affected by the high prevalence of other complications and associated mortality among horses that suffer TDSA.

Microscopy and molecular survey of Hepatozoon spp. in domestic cats and their ticks: First report of H. silvestris from Türkiye

Hepatozoonosis is a tick-borne infection caused by protozoan species of the Hepatozoon genus in the family Hepatozoidae. This study aimed to determine the presence and prevalence of Hepatozoon spp. in domestic cats and their ticks, to characterize the genotypes, to reveal phylogenetic relationships, and to assess the risk factors associated with infection. Blood samples were collected in EDTA tubes from 311 cats that were brought to the Veterinary Faculty, Animal Hospital for treatment or routine control purposes. Smears were prepared from the buffy coat and examined microscopically for the presence of Hepatozoon spp. gamonts. Ticks were collected during the clinical examination of the cats and the species were identified. Genomic DNA obtained from buffy coats and ticks were analyzed using PCR analyses targeting the 18S rRNA gene region of Hepatozoon spp. The results showed that Hepatozoon spp. gamonts in neutrophils were determined in five samples as 1.6 % (5/311). A total of 58 (18.64 %, 58/311) were positive for the PCR analyses. Twelve ticks were collected from the cats, and all were identified as Rhipicephalus turanicus. Hepatozoon spp. were found in seven (58.3 %) ticks by molecular analyses. Sequence analysis of the 18S rRNA gene region of 58 positive isolates revealed the presence of H. felis (n = 25, 43.1 %) and H. silvestris (n = 33, 56.9 %) species in cats and H. felis in Rh. turanicus (n = 7). This study also presents the first report of H. silvestris in domestic cats from Türkiye. Phylogenetic analyses showed that our H. felis isolates clustered in H. felis genotype I and our H. silvestris were stated in the same cluster with Italian isolates.

Evaluation of the prevalence of the dog erythrocyte antigen 1 blood type in dogs of Sydney

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of dog erythrocyte antigen 1 (DEA 1) blood type in Sydney and to identify any associations between its prevalence and breed, sex and geographic location of these dogs.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study of 225 dogs that underwent DEA 1 blood typing while donating or receiving blood products at a single institution between 2020 and 2024. Dogs were DEA 1 positive or negative and blood donors or recipients. Logistic regression was used to evaluate differences in the prevalence of DEA 1 positive results between sex, breed and geographic location. Significance was set at P < 0.05. Reasons for blood transfusion, blood product administered and age were documented.

RESULTS

Of the dogs that were blood typed (n = 225), 48% (108/225) were DEA 1 positive and 52% (117/225) DEA 1 negative, 105 (46.7%) were donors and 120 (53.3%) recipients. The highest prevalence of DEA 1 type positivity was observed in the Golden Retriever (8/9, 88.9%). Recipients presented primarily for haemorrhage (57/120, 47.5%), most frequently receiving whole blood (89/120, 74.2%) with minimal adverse reactions (3/120, 2.5%). No significant differences were identified in prevalence of DEA 1 positive dogs between breed groups, six most common breeds, sex, geographical location or DEA 1 negative blood types.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of the DEA 1 blood type in this cohort of dogs in Sydney is comparable to other countries.

Respiratory viruses affecting health and performance in equine athletes

Some respiratory viruses can affect equine athletes, with acute respiratory clinical signs leading to a reduced ability to perform. The direct association between equine respiratory viruses and athletic performance is unclear in subclinically affected horses. This narrative review summarises the current evidence on respiratory viruses most commonly detected in performing horses, including equine herpesviruses, equine influenza virus, equine rhinitis viruses, equine arteritis virus, and equine adenovirus 1. It covers their virology, clinical manifestations, epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and control measures, with a focus on their impact on performance. Molecular diagnostics on nasopharyngeal swabs are the preferred method for detecting equine respiratory viruses nowadays. Studies highlighted in this review reveal a high prevalence of equine herpesviruses -particularly gammaherpesviruses- in the airways of both healthy and diseased horses. In contrast, equine rhinitis A virus, equine arteritis virus, and equine adenovirus 1 are the least common viruses. Transportation contributes to spreading equine infectious diseases across countries and can temporarily weaken the immune system, increasing the risk of respiratory viral infections and reactivation of latent equine herpesviruses. Moreover, respiratory viral infections are frequently observed in young horses starting their training. Although there is limited evidence on the specific impact of equine respiratory viruses on performance, this review emphasises that vaccination and care management are essential strategies for limiting the spread and severity of outbreaks in sport horses.

Characterisation of the virome of Culicoides brevitarsis Kieffer (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae), a vector of bluetongue virus in Australia

Culicoides spp., a common biting midge genus, are haematophagous insects that can transmit pathogens to humans and other animals. Some species transmit arboviruses, including bluetongue virus, epizootic haemorrhagic disease virus, African horse sickness virus and Schmallenberg virus to vertebrates, which can be detrimental to livestock and wild animals. Culicoides spp. can also have a diversity of insect-specific viruses (ISVs) that can only be transmitted between insects and others related to known arboviruses. For Culicoides brevitarsis and other Culicoides spp. in Australia, the virome is largely unexplored. We used high-throughput sequencing to characterise the virome of C. brevitarsis collected from Casino, New South Wales, Australia. For virus detection, the total RNA was extracted from pools of C. brevitarsis followed by rRNA depletion and Illumina short-read-based RNA sequencing. The reads were quality-checked, filtered and assembled into contigs, compared with the non-redundant protein and conserved domain databases for viral detection and genome organisation, respectively. The phylogenetic analysis was used to further characterise the viruses. We detected new virus diversity including ten viruses belonging to eight different families with complete or near-complete coding regions. Seven of these were novel virus species belonging to the families: Chuviridae, Orthomyxoviridae, Peribunyaviridae, Qinviridae, Rhabdoviridae and Solemoviridae. In addition, the novel Peribunyaviridae virus should also be considered part of a new genus. Whilst most of the detected viruses grouped into families with viruses that can infect insects, animals or both, the novel species of Solemoviridae was closely related to an economically important plant pathogen, the sugarcane yellow leaf virus. Our quantitative PCR-based screening confirmed the absence of any Wolbachia endosymbiont within the collected samples. Furthermore, we detected fragments of three more virus families known to infect fungi and plants. The detection of potential arboviruses and ISVs in Culicoides spp. is important in understanding virus epidemiology.

Significant Progress in the Study of African Freshwater Snails Over the Past 260 Years

Globally, freshwater ecosystems are threatened. Research progress concerning African freshwater snails was reviewed using a systematic review process. Since 1757, the number of publications produced has increased, particularly in the last decade. In the first 50 years (1757-1800), 0.1% of publications on freshwater snails in Africa were conducted, followed by 0% (1801-1850), 3.3% (1851-1900), 3.5% (1901-1950) and 48.7% (1951-2000). The last 23 years (2001-2024) exhibited a large increase (44.3%) in publications of the total conducted. Studies on freshwater snails varied in number across the 10 major African water basins, with the majority of studies in the Nile (21.7%), followed by the Congo Basin (17.6%) and Niger (12.4%). The Orange Basin and Lake Tanganyika also received a high number of studies (10.9%) and (7.2%), respectively. Most freshwater snail study objectives related to conservation and taxonomy (70%), followed by disease vector (20.5%), with genetics/genomic/DNA barcoding/eDNA receiving significant focus as well (5.2%). Studies focusing on geology and palaeontology (2.5%), followed by climate change (1.5%) and machine learning (0.4%). The modern phase in the study of African freshwater snails came around the early 20th century with the discovery of Bulinus truncatus and Biomphalaria alexandrina as intermediate hosts for the parasites causing human schistosomiasis. African freshwater malacology has since then benefited from African and overseas malacologists based at universities and medical laboratories across Africa and overseas. In addition to taxonomic studies, there was a steady rise in contributions relating to ecology, disease vectors, palaeontology and genetics. These contributed knowledge on local endemism and speciation, invasive species, species origins and distribution across African water basins, as well as the spread of infectious diseases and impacts of climate change. In the last decade, there have been shifts in methods with the application of DNA barcoding, genomics, environmental DNA and, most recently, machine learning approaches.

Serological evidence of Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever in domestic animals from eight regions of Namibia

Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is a viral zoonotic disease endemic to regions of Africa, the Balkans, the Middle East, and Asia, with increasing reports of cases in southern Europe. Human transmission occurs primarily through the bite of infected ticks and by body fluids from infected human. Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV) affects a broad host range, including both domestic and wild vertebrates. Recent studies have suggested a potential susceptibility of companion animals, posing an additional threat to public health. In the present study, the presence of CCHFV antibodies was evaluated by screening 374 dog and 238 cat serum samples collected from eight Namibian regions using a commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Overall, dogs (11.50 %) showed significantly higher odds of seropositivity (OR = 7.60; 95 % CI = 3.02 - 25.51; p-value < 0.001) compared to cats (1.68 %). Most of the positive dogs and all positive cats originated from the Kunene and Hardap regions. No other factors were found to affect seroprevalence. The limited development of farming systems in these regions, combined with the higher roaming activity of dogs, may suggest a greater exposure risk to wild animals or infected ticks. Tick species of the genus Hyalomma are not commonly reported to infest dogs in Namibia, and other tick species may also be involved in transmission. The detection of CCHFV antibodies in dogs and cats in Namibia should be considered by public health authorities as a potential threat, warranting further investigation to identify infection sources and risk factors. While the level and duration of viremia in companion animals, as well as their actual infectivity, remain unknown, efforts should focus on reducing contact between domestic pets, livestock, and wild animals, as well as regular prophylactic tick treatment of pets to prevent or minimise tick infestations.

Clinical, imaging and rhinoscopy findings of dogs and cats with nasal foreign bodies presenting to a UK referral hospital: 71 cases (2010-2022)

OBJECTIVES

Description of clinical presentation and diagnostic findings in dogs and cats with confirmed nasal foreign bodies.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This was a retrospective descriptive study. Clinical presentation, imaging and rhinoscopy findings of dogs and cats, between January 2010 and December 2022, were reviewed.

RESULTS

A total of 63 dogs and eight cats met the criteria. Median length of clinical signs was 7 and 45 days in dogs and cats, respectively. Most common clinical signs in both groups were sneezing (46/71, 64.8%) and nasal discharge (44/71, 62%). The discharge was unilateral in the majority of cases (38/44, 86.4%). Computed tomography was the predominant form of imaging modality used in 40 cases (40/71, 56.3%). Visualisation of a foreign body using computed tomography was possible in only 14 cases (14/40, 35%). The vast majority of cases had unilateral changes (33/40, 82.5%), including fluid accumulation (33/40, 82.5%) and mucosal thickening (29/40, 72.5%). More severe changes such as turbinate destruction were evident in 26 cases (26/40, 65%). Foreign body removal was achieved through rhinoscopy or nasal flushing in 66 and four cases, respectively.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Based on the findings of this study, although unilateral discharge was more common, nasal foreign bodies should remain a differential diagnosis in bilateral cases. In comparison to dogs, cats had a more chronic presentation. Computed tomography was the most common imaging modality, but visualisation of a foreign body remains difficult and was not improved with contrast study; inability to identify a foreign body does not exclude it.

Habitat suitability mapping and landscape connectivity analysis to predict African swine fever spread in wild boar populations: A focus on Northern Italy

African swine fever (ASF) is a highly contagious disease affecting wild and domestic pigs, characterised by severe haemorrhagic symptoms and high mortality rates. Originally confined to Sub-Saharan Africa, ASF virus genotype II has spread to Europe since 2014, mainly affecting Eastern Europe, and progressing through wild boar migrations and human action. In January 2022, the first case of ASF, due to genotype II, was reported in North-western Italy, in a wild boar carcass. Thereafter, numerous positive wild boars were identified, indicating an expanding wild epidemic, severely threatening Italian pig farming and trade. This study focused on the mapping of the suitable habitats for wild boars and their potential dispersal corridors in Northern Italy, using species distribution models and landscape connectivity analysis. The resulting maps identified areas with higher likelihood of wild boar presence, highlighting their preferential pathways crossing Northern Italy. The distribution of ASF positive wild boars along the major corridors predicted by the model suggests the obtained maps as valuable support to decision-makers to improve ASF surveillance and carcass early detection, aiming for eradication. The applied framework can be easily replicated in other regions and countries.