Mastitis is one of the most prevalent diseases in dairy cattle and leads to milk abnormalities and economic losses due to decreased milk yield. Among the mastitis-causing pathogens, Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae are major contributors, and of these the rise of Extended Spectrum Beta-Lactamase (ESBL)producing strains has made treatment more difficult by conferring resistance to various beta-lactam antibiotics. The present study was aimed at determining the prevalence of ESBL-producing E. coli and K. pneumoniae from mastitic milk samples in Jammu (India), identifying the major ESBL genes, and evaluating multidrug resistance and MAR (Multiple Antibiotic Resistance) index profiles. From a total of 100 mastitic milk samples collected from various cattle in and around Jammu, 22 E. coli (22%) and eight K. pneumoniae (8%) isolates were obtained. ESBL production of the isolates was determined by phenotypic methods, as well as detection of ESBL genes, viz. blaSHV, blaTEM, blaOXA and blaCTX-M genes. All the E. coli (n=22) and 75% of K. pneumoniae (6 of 8) isolates were ESBL producers on HiCrome ESBL agar, while 18 of the 22 E. coli (81.82%), and all eight K. pneumoniae isolates (100%) were found to be ESBL producers using the combined disc method. All the isolates were screened for ESBL genes by multiplex PCR, and the predominant ESBL gene identified was blaSHV, followed by blaTEM and blaCTX-M. The majority of the isolates demonstrated resistance to ampicillin, imipenem and cefotaxime, while most isolates were susceptible to tetracycline (for E. coli) and chloramphenicol (for K. pneumoniae). All of the ESBL-producing isolates had a MAR index >0.2, indicating potential overuse or indiscriminate administration of antibiotics on dairy farms in the region, thereby underscoring the need for strict antimicrobial stewardship there.
Cloning of animals through somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) is a globally recognized technique for improving the genetic potential of livestock. Multiple factors influence the efficiency of SCNT, and the present study focused on two key determinants of cloning outcome: the type of donor somatic cell, and the protocol used for donor cell cycle synchronization. Donor karyoplasts were prepared either from adult skin fibroblasts or from cumulus cells recovered from ovarian follicles of slaughtered animals, while high-quality oocytes were matured in vitro in a defined maturation medium to serve as recipient cytoplasts. The donor cell cycle was synchronized using either a combination of aphidicolin and serum starvation or serum starvation alone. Significantly more NT embryos derived from cumulus cells developed to the morula stage (26.5%) than those derived from fibroblasts (16.8%), although fusion and cleavage rates did not differ significantly between the two donor cell types (P>0.05). The cleavage rate (65.2% and 72.7% for fibroblast- and cumulus-derived embryos, respectively) and the proportion of embryos reaching the morula stage (22.8% and 27.3%, respectively) were significantly higher when donor cells were synchronized with aphidicolin plus serum starvation, compared with serum starvation alone (P<0.05). These findings indicate that, in this SCNT system, cumulus cells are a more suitable source of donor nuclei than fibroblasts. They also demonstrate that donor cell synchronization using aphidicolin, followed by serum starvation improves embryonic development relative to serum starvation alone. Given the multiple practical applications of successful farm animal cloning for farmers, continued refinement of SCNT protocols is essential to enhance efficiency and increase the number of viable cloned animals produced.
This practical study was the first to examine the effects of melatonin implants on the reproductive performance of Blanc du Massif Central ewes in Hungary. The ewes were divided into two experimental groups: group A (n=66) was treated with melatonin implants and group B (n=66) was the control group. Four parameters were measured in the two groups: fertility rates, the average number of lambs born, the proportion of twin pregnancies, and embryo mortality rates. Fertility rates, the average number of lambs born per ewe were significantly higher (P<0.01) in group A (75.75% and 1.26 respectively) than in group B (36.36% and 0.23 respectively). The proportion of twin pregnancies was also significantly higher (P<0.05) in group A (74.46%) than in group B (40.00%). Embryo mortality rate was significantly lower in group A (6.00%) than in group B (54.17%). Each group was further divided into three age groups (1–2 years, 3–5 years and 6–10 years old). In group A, there was also a significant increase (P<0.01) in the average number of lambs born per ewe in age groups 1-2 years old (1.29) and 3-5 years old (1.47) in comparison with the respective age groups (0.21 and 0.19) in the control group. These results indicate that the use of melatonin in a continental area can improve the reproductive efficiency of ewes, but this effect may be age-dependent.
Avian infectious bronchitis (IB) is a highly contagious respiratory disease with worldwide geographic distribution. It is observed systematically in vaccinated and non-vaccinated flocks and is still a major problem with colossal economic repercussions. In this review, the situation regarding (IB) in North Africa is presented, along with a phylogenetic and genetic analysis of the available spike gene. The current situa- tion regarding vaccination is presented, followed by new proposed strategies to control emerging variants in North African countries. In North Africa, infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) genotype I (GI) lineages are the most frequent. Moreover, unique and autochthonous variants have also been detected. Morocco Italy 02 (GI 21), previously absent from theAfrican continent has emerged recently in Morocco, raising the question of how it was introduced. Some Middle East variants have also been detected in Egypt and Libya. Analysis of the S1 gene, showed recombination between strains from non-bordering countries and several point mutations in the hypervariable regions (some are exclusive) compared to commercial vaccines and reference strains, which reflects the continuous evolution of IBV in North Africa. Several vaccination trials with the available and/or new vaccines were studied. The combination of indigenous strains with classic or variants vaccines has shown promising results. Nevertheless, the combination of monovalent heterologous vaccines also conferred good protection. However, other trials to develop effective vaccination programs are required to generalize their use. In the current situation, it seems that updating molecular field data is crucial to understand the evolution of the infectious bronchitis virus to improve the adaptation of vaccine programs and preventive measures to field strains.
Burns are injuries to body tissues caused by exposure to high temperatures or chemicals. Extensive burns lead to the release of toxins and cell debris into the bloodstream, increasing levels of prostaglandins, serotonin, histamine, and proteolytic enzymes, which elevate capillary permeability and contribute to systemic disturbances. In this report, three horses-two mixed-breed males approximately 1.5 years old and one female-were examined following death in a fire. All were in good pre-mortem body condition and showed no injuries unrelated to the fire. Flames burned their entire coats and underlying skin, causing severe carbonization that made external identification impossible. Thermal effects extended beyond the skin, penetrating muscle and cranial bone structures. Rupture of the abdominal wall resulted in displacement of abdominal organs. The larynx and trachea were hyperemic with soot deposits, and a large amount of foamy fluid was present along the trachea and at the bronchial bifurcation. The lungs were dark red, rubbery, enlarged, and rounded at the edges, with soot deposits similar to those in the trachea. Microscopically, the most pronounced lesions were in the respiratory system and included hyperemia, edema, vascular congestion, and epithelial injury. The presence of soot in the airways and hyperemic mucosal changes indicate that all three animals were alive during fire exposure. This case highlights key necropsy and histopathological findings that help differentiate antemortem from postmortem burn injuries in horses (Equus caballus), providing valuable forensic guidance for veterinary practitioners and legal authorities.
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) in dogs is frequently complicated by normocytic, normochromic, non-regenerative anemia due to reduced erythropoietin synthesis and impaired erythropoiesis. Effective correction of anemia is essential for improving quality of life and clinical outcomes. This prospective preliminary clinical trial evaluated the comparative efficacy of darbepoetin alfa and packed red blood cell (pRBC) transfusion alone, and in combination for anemia management in 40 dogs with CKD. Forty dogs with International Renal Interest Society (IRIS) stage 3 and 4 CKD (hemoglobin <5 g/dL; serum creatinine >= 5 mg/dL) were randomly assigned to four groups (n=10 each): Group I received darbepoetin alfa (0.5 & micro;g/kg SC weekly for three weeks); Group II received pRBC transfusion (10 mL/kg IV once); Group III received combination therapy (darbepoetin + pRBC); and Group IV received conventional therapy alone. Hemato-biochemical parameters were assessed on days 0 and 21, and post-treatment quality of life and survival were recorded. Combination therapy (Group III) produced the greatest improvement in hemoglobin (7.54 +/- 0.49 g/dL, P<0.05), total erythrocyte count (5.68 +/- 0.16 & times;106/& micro;L, P<0.05), and reticulocyte count (0.99 +/- 0.70 %, P<0.05), along with a significant reduction in blood urea nitrogen and creatinine concentrations. Serum iron levels increased significantly in Group III (54.3 +/- 1.62 & micro;g/dL, P<0.05) compared with the other groups. The results indicated that combination therapy with Darbepoetin and pRBC transfusion offered superior management of renal anemia in dogs. It effectively improved hematobiochemical profiles, and enhanced survival and quality of life compared to monotherapies and conventional treatment.
Congenital heart defects represent a group of complex malformations, and they are the most common type of birth defects with prevalences that vary according to geographical regions. The goals of this study were to assess the prevalence and age at the time of diagnosis of congenital heart defects in the general population of dogs, and to assess the prevalence of specific defects as well as reported clinical signs. The medical records of 89 dogs diagnosed with 115 congenital heart defects in a period of 6.5 years were reviewed retrospectively. The overall prevalence of congenital heart defects in the study was 0.53% - 0.64% in purebreds and 0.29% in mixed breeds. Patent ductus arteriosus was the most prevalent defect (27%), followed by subaortic stenosis (19%), pulmonic stenosis (18%), and tricuspid dysplasia (14%). The mean age at the time of diagnosis was 3.9 years, and 37.1% (33/89) of patients were diagnosed in their first year of life. Most of the patients (86.5%) had a loud heart murmur, classified as III/VI or greater. The most commonly reported clinical signs were: signs of congestive heart failure, syncope, and exercise intolerance; 38.2% (34/89) were symptomatic. This is the first report on the prevalence of congenital heart defects in dogs in Croatia. Although most dogs had pronounced heart murmur, onla a minority were diagnosed within the first year of life, indicating delayed recognition of the disease. These findings highlight the importance of early clinical examination, particularly ausculation, in establishing the diagnosis, which is crucial for timely treatment, prognosis and overall bread health.
This study investigated the dynamics of follicular development during the pre-and post-pubertal phases in Sahiwal purebred and Jersey crossbred heifers (N=40), using trans-rectal and trans-cutaneous ultrasonography to monitor ovarian structures and back fat thickness (BFT), respectively. Data were collected at alternate-day and weekly intervals. Significant breed differences (P<0.01) were observed in birth weight, body weight at puberty, and age at puberty onset. Sahiwal purebred heifers had lower birth and pubertal weights, and reached puberty later than Jersey crossbreds. A strong negative correlation (r=-0.816; P<0.01) between birth weight and age at puberty was noted in Sahiwal purebreds, suggesting that heavier birth weights are linked to earlier puberty. ROC analysis identified breed-specific thresholds for pubertal weight (>= 308.11 kg for Sahiwal purebred; >= 337.17 kg for Jersey crossbreds), body condition score (>= 2.50 and >= 2.75), and BFT (>= 11.35 mm and >= 12.57 mm), with high predictive accuracy. Follicular dynamics revealed breed-dependent growth patterns: three-wave cycles predominated in Sahiwal purebreds (60%) and two-wave cycles in Jersey crossbreds (70%). In post-pubertal phases, Sahiwal purebred heifers exhibited significant differences (P<0.01) in pre-ovulatory and subordinate follicle diameters, and in the duration of follicular dominance and static phases across waves. Jersey crossbreds showed more uniform follicular patterns. Despite these differences, inter-estrus intervals remained comparable between breeds. This study is the first to propose physiological cut-off values for puberty prediction in these breeds and highlights the importance of early-life growth parameters in reproductive development. The findings can aid in refining purebred and crossbred specific management strategies to improve reproductive performance in tropical and subtropical systems.
Pleomorphic fibrosarcomas are tumors that occur mainly in mesenchymal cell-derived soft tissues. They are frequently detected in humans, but have a relatively rare occurrence in animals. These tumors comprise a mixture of neoplastic fibroblasts, histiocytes, and multinucleated giant cells (MGCs). They are morphologically characterizedbypleomorphicspindle-shapedoratypicalround-to-oval-shapedcellswithscanteosinophiliccytoplasm.In addition, these tumors can metastasize to various organs in humans and animals. A few cases of these tumors have been reported in laboratory animals, which often describe the general features of this type of tumor. Herein, we present a pleomorphic fibrosarcoma case in a Sprague-Dawley rat that showed collagen production and smooth muscle actin fibers, while lacking multinucleated giant cell (MGC) infiltration. This distinctive combination of features has not been previously reported in laboratory rats.
The grey partridge (Perdix perdix L.) is a monogamous member of the Phasianidae family that has experienced a significant population decline across Europe in recent decades. While previous studies have focused on semen characteristics in polygamous Phasianidae species, data on P. perdix remain lacking. This study aimed to provide the first comprehensive characterisation of semen traits in the grey partridge, establishing the reference values essential for further reproductive research. Semen was collected from ten adult males during the breeding season, and evaluated for ejaculate volume, sperm concentration, motility (including kinematic parameters), morphology, and morphometry. The mean ejaculate volume was 4.40 & micro;L, with significant individual variation (P<0.05). Average sperm concentration was 1.64 & times;10(9) mL(-1), and total motility and progressive motility were 46.83% and 10.20%, respectively. Morphological assessment revealed that only 10.39% of live spermatozoa were morphologically normal, with bulb-head abnormalities being the most common (mean 27.20%). Sperm morphometry showed a relatively short midpiece (mean 1.77 & micro;m) and total sperm length of 53.99 & micro;m. Despite individual variability, the measured traits fall within the ranges reported for other small-bodied wild Phasianidae. The low proportion of morphologically normal sperm may represent species-specific patterns rather than abnormalities. These results provide essential baseline data for the grey partridge and support its potential inclusion in future assisted reproduction and conservation strategies.
This study aims to explore the effect of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) on inflammatory injury in a bovine mammary epithelial cell line (MAC-T). First, MAC-T cells were stimulated with 1000 ng/mL lipopolysaccharide (LPS) for 9 hours, after which the lipid droplet area and triacylglycerol (TG) content of the cells were determined. Afterwards, the control group, LPS treatment group (LPS group), and 100 ng/mL ACE2+LPS treatment group (ACE2+LPS group) were established. Related inflammatory indicators, TG content, and key genes that regulate lipid metabolism were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), a triglyceride detection kit, and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), respectively. LPS significantly decreased the total lipid droplet area and TG content of MAC-T cells (P<0.05). The levels of tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), interleukin 6 (IL-6), and interleukin 8 (IL-8) in the LPS group were significantly increased relative to the control group (P<0.05), while the interleukin 10 (IL-10) level was significantly decreased (P<0.05). In contrast, compared with the LPS group, the ACE2+LPS group had significantly lower TNF-alpha and IL-8 levels (P<0.05), while the IL-10 level was significantly higher (P<0.05). Compared with the control group, the TG content in the LPS group was significantly lower (P<0.05). Additionally, the mRNA expression levels of the lipid anabolism-related genes acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC) and fatty acid synthetase (FAS) were significantly lower (P<0.05), and the mRNA expression levels of the lipid catabolism-related genes carnitine palmitoyltransferase-1, 2 (CPT-1, 2), and acyl-CoA oxidase (ACO) were significantly higher (P<0.05). However, compared with the LPS group, the TG content in the ACE2+LPS group was increased significantly (P<0.05), the mRNA expression levels of ACC and FAS increased significantly (P<0.05), and the mRNA expression levels of CPT-2 and ACO decreased against MAC-T cell inflammation and can alleviate the occurrence of lipid metabolic disorders at the cellular level.
This study aimed to evaluate the effects of two additives with different modes of action on the quality and aerobic stability of corn silage under farm conditions. The tested additives were silage stabilizers based on citric acid and sodium bicarbonate-treatment T1SS, and a lactic acid bacteria (LAB) inoculant containing Lactobacillus buchneri and Lactobacillus plantarum-treatment T2LAB. The total duration of ensiling was 200 days, during which samples were collected after periods of 30, 100, 150, and 200 days of ensiling. When comparing the nutritional values of the experimental treated silages at 30 days, only minor differences were observed between treatments T1SS: T2LAB in the content of neutral detergent fiber and acid detergent fiber. After a period of 100 days of ensiling, differences between treatments T1SS: T2LAB were found in terms of the content of: ash (0.56%), and lignin (0.35%), indicating that silage ensiled with the silage stabilizers had a smaller content of those parameters, which may have a positive effect on ensiling losses and digestibility. The largest differences between the two treatments were detected on day 200, when the silage with the LAB inoculant had lower crude protein (0.85%) and crude fat (0.32%) compared to the silage ensiled with the silage stabilizers. Both additives preserved the nutritional value of the corn silage, but their effects differed. The LAB inoculant enhanced lactic acid production and influenced fiber-associated protein fractions, while the silage stabilizers showed superior performance in maintaining aerobic stability, with significantly lower CO2 release and stable pH values during exposure to air. These findings highlight the fact that while LAB inoculants improve fermentation dynamics, silage stabilizers may be more effective in prolonging aerobic stability, thus providing practical benefits for dairy farms.
Effective crop pollination hinges on the alignment of agricultural and apicultural practices with ecological knowledge. This study explores the dynamics between Croatian beekeepers and farmers, revealing overlapping but often uncoordinated approaches to pollination. Survey data indicate that 83.8% of beekeepers work part-time, aligning with broader trends observed across Europe. While honey production remains the primary source of income, pollination services contribute minimally, partly due to logistical barriers, weak institutional frameworks, and limited market incentives. Apiary placement is strongly influenced by seasonal floral resources, with a preference for grasslands, and selective avoidance of certain crops due to pesticide risks or low nectar flow. Farmers have reported a significant dependence on animal pollination (median 42.5%) and a strong reliance on managed honeybee colonies, however, wild insect pollinators and habitat enhancements remain underutilized. Despite widespread awareness, constraints, including technical gaps and financial limitations, hinder further engagement. The research emphasizes the urgent need to incorporate ecological knowledge into policy and practice. Promoting cooperative relationships, ecosystem service-based incentives, and regionally adapted training could enhance pollination outcomes. Part-time beekeepers could be a vital resource for expanding insect pollination services if they received better support. To strengthen partnerships between beekeepers and farmers in Croatia, it is necessary to coordinate efforts across policy, education, and land-use planning to fully unlock the ecological and economic potential of pollination.
Development of drug resistant parasite populations worldwide has forced the use of medicinal plants as an alternative control strategy for parasites. Hence, this study aimed to evaluate the in vitro anthelmintic effect of hydroalcoholic (HE) and methanol extracts (ME) of Annona muricata fruit peel, seed and bark against eggs, infective larvae, and adults of Haemonchus contortus, at different concentrations (0.3, 1, 3, 9, 21, and 81 mg/mL) using albendazole as a reference drug. All extracts exhibited dose and/or time dependant anthelmintic effects compared to a negative control, and the effect was comparable with albendazole. At a concentration of 81 mg/mL, the extracts inhibited 96-100% of egg hatching, and 100% larval and worm motility, indicating their anthelmintic activity. At concentrations of 9 and 3 mg/mL the extracts did not inhibit the motility of worms. The effect of the HE the plant on H. contortus was better than the ME of the plant. The HE of A. muricata fruit peel inhibited egg hatching (ED50=1.28 mg/mL), larval motility (ED50=2.71 mg/ mL), and adult worm motility (ED50=12.63 mg/mL) significantly better than seed and bark extracts. Phytochemical screening of the extracts revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, amino acids, terpenoids and saponins, which might account for the anthelmintic activity observed. The results confirm the traditional use of A. muricata as a natural anthelmintic, however, further in vivo studies are warranted to validate these effects.
In this study, we prepared a chitosan nanoparticle DNA vaccine encoding the flgE gene of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (CpflgE), and characterized its encapsulation efficiency, stability, and resistance to DNase degradation. Subsequently, we compared the immune efficacy induced in mice by CpflgE with that of the naked DNA vaccine (pflgE), a flagellin vaccine, and an inactivated vaccine. The results showed that the encapsulation efficiency of the CpflgE was 94.69% and it could effectively resist degradation by DNase. Following vaccination, serum antibodies, SI values, and concentrations of IFN-gamma, IL-2, and IL-4 in mice immunized with the CpflgE were significantly higher than in those immunized with the pflgE (P<0.05). The protection rates provided by the pflgE, the CpflgE, the flagellin vaccine, and the inactivated vaccine were 57.1%, 76.2%, 81%, and 95.2%, respectively.
Brucellosis is a zoonotic disease caused by the Brucella species. The transmission routes and mechanisms of Brucella between humans and animals remain incompletely understood. This study reports an emergency epidemiological investigation of brucellosis in livestock, conducted by tracing a human brucellosis outbreak. This epidemiological investigation of brucellosis identified a canine brucellosis case positive for Brucella melitensis (B. melitensis). On the basis of indirect evidence, we found that this B. melitensis outbreak was transmitted through the "sheep-dog-human" pathway. This study may represent the first report in Shaanxi that documents and proposes the hypothesis of B. melitensis transmission from sheep to humans via a dog. In future animal disease prevention and control efforts, we need to strengthen the scientific popularization and education about zoonotic diseases such as brucellosis. Meanwhile, we also need to enhance biosafety awareness among livestock and poultry farmers. It is necessary to break the constraints of traditional animal disease prevention and control models.
Lumpy skin disease (LSD) is a contagious transboundary viral infection affecting cattle and buffaloes, with significant economic implications for the livestock industry. The disease was first detected in Pakistan in October 2021 in Jamshoro district, Sindh, and subsequently spread across the country. In this study, we evaluated six LSD outbreaks in the Pishin district of Balochistan to examine clinical signs, and collected seven samples for diagnostic confirmation. We performed molecular characterization of the isolates by analyzing the complete RPO30 gene. This study investigated the origin and phylogenetic relationships of lumpy skin disease Virus (LSDV) isolates by aligning the obtained sequences with representative LSDV strains from various geographical regions. Phylogenetic analysis demonstrated that all the Pakistani LSDV sequences grouped within sub-group II (SGII), together with field strains previously reported in Bangladesh and India from 2019 to 2023. This study provides the preliminary molecular evidence of LSD outbreaks in the Balochistan province, highlighting the critical need for continuing surveillance, monitoring and regulatory measures for LSD in Pakistan.
The world's largest producer of milk is India. This significant accomplishment is solely made possible by the existence of the Bubalus bubalis (Buffalo) species. The primary concern with buffaloes is the lack of early pregnancy detection, which is directly related to their high milk production. Thus, in the current investigation one of the conceptus-induced proteins, myxovirus resistance 2 (Mx2), which is produced between days 18 and 21 of pregnancy, was expressed and characterized in a heterologous protein production system. Partial Mx2 was markedly amplified in pregnant animals by conventional PCR. The suitability of the protein as a possible molecule for early pregnancy detection kits was determined using in silico analysis. The nature of the Mx2 protein under in vitro conditions was anticipated on the basis of its physiochemical properties, which are necessary for the formulation of any assay. Mx2 is highly antigenic in nature and can be exploited to produce antibodies, according to immunogenic characteristics. Using coding area primers, the partial Mx2 protein was extracted from a pregnant buffalo (n=30), amplified, and subsequently cloned and inserted into Escherichia coli BL21 (DE3). The 21 kDa band observed by western blotting showed that the protein is antigenic in nature. In conclusion, the expression and molecular characterization of partial Mx2 protein can be done in heterologous expression system. This Mx2 protein in buffalo may serve as a reliable marker of conceptus implantation, and can be incorporated into diagnostic tests for early pregnancy.
Anaplasmosis is a tick-borne disease caused by Anaplasma species, impacting livestock and wildlife worldwide. Despite previous studies on the molecular epidemiology of Anaplasma in camels across various countries, limited exist for Pakistan. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and genetic diversity of Anaplasma species in camels from Bahawalpur, Pakistan, using molecular techniques. A total of 94 blood samples were collected from camels via ular venipuncture and subjected to DNA extraction. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed targeting the rRNA gene, followed by sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. The overall prevalence of Anaplasma species was to be 40.4%, with 38 samples testing positive. BLAST analysis revealed 17 isolates as A. capra, 14 as A. platys, ovis, 2 as A. marginale, and 2 as A. camelii. Phylogenetic analysis using the Maximum Likelihood method grouped identified Anaplasma species into four distinct clades, with A. capra and A. marginale showing a close genetic relationship. Univariable statistical analysis revealed no significant associations between Anaplasma prevalence and host factors such as: sex (P=0.5457), age (P=0.464), body condition (P=0.3269), pregnancy status (P=0.7530), or parity (P=0.8057). The results suggest that camels could act as potential reservoirs for multiple Anaplasma species, contributing epidemiological complexity of anaplasmosis in Pakistan. This study provides the first molecular characterization Anaplasma species in Pakistani camels, highlighting the need for further research on transmission dynamics and tial zoonotic implications. Enhanced surveillance and preventive strategies are recommended to mitigate the impact anaplasmosis in camel populations and associated livestock.
Diarrhea is a leading cause of neonatal calf mortality, resulting in substantial economic losses in the livestock industry. Cryptosporidiosis, a major infectious etiology of diarrhea in neonatal calves, is characterized by high morbidity. This study aimed to evaluate the acute-phase response in calves with cryptosporidiosis, with a particular focus on the roles of haptoglobin (Hp) and serum amyloid A (SAA) in disease prognosis. A total of 15 calves diagnosed with cryptosporidiosis and 10 healthy calves were included in the study. Clinical assessments and oocyst scoring were conducted on days 0, 3, 5, and 7, alongside evaluation of the hematological and serum biochemical parameters. A standard treatment protocol was administered to calves diagnosed with cryptosporidiosis. The results indicated a significant reduction in oocyst shedding by the end of the study period, following treatment. The mean Hp levels in the infected calves exhibited an increasing trend. However, SAA levels demonstrated fluctuations throughout the monitoring period. In conclusion, while Hp and SAA play roles in the acute-phase response, their utility as prognostic biomarkers for cryptosporidiosis in neonatal calves appears to be limited. Comprehensive studies are needed to better understand the inflammatory process in naturally infected cryptosporidiosis..
