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  • Open access
  • 38 Reads
The bla TEM ESBL E. coli gene's current state in Bangladesh's poultry industry

Introduction: E. coli in poultry that produces extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs) has emerged as a significant health concern in Bangladesh. To reduce the harmful impacts, it is urgently necessary to increase awareness and conduct scientifically based research by implementing a surveillance program on the genotypic antibiotic resistance profiles of E. coli obtained from chickens in Bangladesh.

Methods: This paper used a rigorous approach to locate scientific publications published between 2014 and 2024 that addressed the prevalence of ESBL-producing E. coli genes derived from poultry in Bangladesh. Data from the Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR), which is part of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MOH&FW) of the Government of the People's Republic of Bangladesh, was thoroughly analyzed in this research.

Results: Poultry isolates showed greater diversity in blaTEM, followed by blaSHV. Moreover, blaTEM is the most often found ESBL type in poultry, with detection rates ranging from 1% to 95%. The substantial association between the genotypes and phenotypes may suggest that the presence of specific blaTEM genes in their genomes is primarily responsible for the 83%–87% ampicillin resistance.

Conclusions: To address this ongoing public health issue and stop the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria across the food supply chain, cooperation between public health officials, veterinarians, food manufacturers, and consumers is essential.

  • Open access
  • 8 Reads
Prevalence and Management of Foot-and-Mouth Disease in Cattle in Iraq: A Short Review

Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is one of the most economically significant viral diseases affecting livestock globally, particularly in developing countries. This highly contagious disease causes severe productivity losses in affected animals, primarily cattle, sheep, and goats. This short review summarizes the prevalence, clinical presentation, and management strategies of FMD in cattle within Iraq. Data were obtained from published studies, governmental veterinary reports, and field observations between 2015 and 2024. The findings reveal that FMD outbreaks occur periodically, with higher incidence during the colder months when animal movements increase and biosecurity measures are often relaxed. Clinical signs observed in affected cattle include fever, excessive salivation, vesicular lesions on the mouth and feet, lameness, and decreased milk production, which collectively contribute to significant economic burdens for farmers and the livestock industry. Current management strategies in Iraq rely mainly on vaccination campaigns, quarantine measures, movement control, and supportive care for affected animals. However, challenges remain due to inconsistent vaccine coverage, limited laboratory diagnostic capacity, lack of public awareness, and unregulated animal trade practices. Strengthening vaccination programs, improving biosecurity measures, increasing farmer education, and enhancing regional cooperation are essential to reducing the impact of FMD in the region. This review emphasizes the importance of continuous surveillance and coordinated efforts among veterinary authorities to effectively control and prevent future FMD outbreaks in Iraq, ultimately supporting food security and livestock sustainability.

  • Open access
  • 30 Reads
Generation and characterization of replication-competent rBTV-3 expressing fluorescent and luminescent reporter genes using a reverse genetics system

Bluetongue virus (BTV) is a widespread vector-borne pathogen of major concern for animal health, mainly affecting both wild and domestic ruminants. This virus stands out for its ability to cause significant disease and its impact on livestock production. In 2023, BTV serotype 3 was detected in the Netherlands and spread rapidly to neighbouring countries. Compared to other serotypes circulating in Europe, BTV-3 shows greater virulence and transmissibility. The aim of this study is the design and rescue of reporter-expressing BTV-3 viruses using a BTV-1 (ALG2006/01) genetic backbone and the VP2 and VP5 outer capsid proteins from BTV-3 (SPA/2024). Using a plasmid-based reverse genetic system, we have designed and rescued rBTV-3 reporter-expressing viruses encoding NanoLuc luciferase (Nluc) or the fluorescent proteins Venus and mCherry. Rescue was achieved by transfecting BSR-T7 cells with plasmids encoding BTV genome segments. The reporter-expressing viruses were generated by chaining segment 5, which encodes the NS1 protein, with a Porcine teschovirus-1 (PTV-1) 2A autoproteolytic cleavage site, followed by the reporter genes. Consequently, fluorescence and luminescence signals are only detected following viral replication and expression of non-structural proteins. BSR cells were mock-infected or infected (MOI 0.1) with rBTV-3, rBTV-3/Venus, rBTV-3/mCherry or rBTV-3/Nluc. Fluorescence was detected in the cytoplasm of the cells infected with rBTV-3/Venus or rBTV-3/mCherry but not in those infected with rBTV-3 or rBTV-3/Nluc. Moreover, Nluc activity was only detected in rBTV-3/Nluc infected cells. The use of replication-competent viruses that encode a traceable fluorescent or luciferase reporter protein may be promising tools for studying BTV infectivity, transmissibility, pathogenesis, diagnostics, and vector competence.

  • Open access
  • 15 Reads
Development of a Quantitative Structure–Retention Relationship (QSRR) Model for Predicting Veterinary Drug Retention Time in Food Matrices
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Quantitative structure–retention relationships (QSRR) offer a powerful approach to predict chromatographic retention times of compounds based on their molecular structures. In this study, we developed a practical and user-friendly QSRR model using multiple linear regression (MLR) to forecast the retention behavior of three classes of illicit veterinary drug additives in food matrices. A total of 95 drugs were analyzed, divided into a training set (62 compounds), a test set (30 compounds), and a real-sample validation set (3 compounds). Molecular descriptors were generated using freely available software tools, including Advanced Chemistry Development (ACD) and the Toxicity Estimation Software Tool (TEST).

The final MLR-QSRR model demonstrated excellent predictive performance, with a strong correlation between observed retention times and selected molecular descriptors (R² = 0.966). Key descriptors influencing retention time included ACDlogP, ALOGP, ALOGP2, Hy, Ui, ib, BEHp1, BEHp2, GATS1m, and GATS2m. Validation through four independent approaches—leave-one-out, k-fold cross-validation, external test set, and real-sample application—confirmed the robustness and reliability of the model.

These findings highlight the potential of QSRR modeling as a valuable analytical tool in food safety, particularly for detecting and monitoring illegal veterinary drug residues. By enabling accurate retention time prediction, this approach supports enhanced screening efficiency in chromatographic workflows and contributes to safeguarding public health.

  • Open access
  • 13 Reads
Study of antibiotic resistance of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus isolated from biomaterial from chickens that died from avian influenza A (H5N1)
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Introduction. The aim of the work was to isolate bacterial microflora from chickens that died from influenza and determine their resistance profile to antimicrobial drugs.

Materials and Methods. Pathological material from five dead chickens from private households was delivered to the Laboratory. Detection of the genetic material of the virus was carried out using RT-qPCR according to the protocols recommended by WOAH. The biomaterial was sown on special nutrient media for the isolation of bacterial microflora and determination of pathogenicity for laboratory animals. The sensitivity of the isolated bacterial cultures to 44 antimicrobial drugs was determined by the disk diffusion method according to the EUCAST recommendations with disks with minimal inhibitory concentrations of antimicrobial drugs and Mueller-Hinton agar medium.

Results. In the biomaterial studied from chickens the presence of the highly pathogenic avian influenza pathogen (type A, H5N1) was confirmed. As a result of bacteriological studies, cultures of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus were isolated and identified from the bone marrow, which were pathogenic for white mice. The results of antibiotic sensitivity studies showed that the isolated culture of Staphylococcus aureus was resistant to antibacterial drugs from the groups of cephalosporins, macrolides, nitrofurans, and fluoroquinolones; the isolated culture of Escherichia coli was resistant to cephalosporins and macrolides.

Discussion. Analysis of the obtained data provided grounds to classify the studied isolates as multidrug-resistant (MDR). Importantly, the anamnesis data does not confirm the use of antimicrobials in households where the death of poultry from highly pathogenic influenza was recorded.

Conclusion. The results obtained indicate the risks of the spread of bacterial pathogens with multiple antibiotic resistance during avian influenza outbreaks, which poses an additional potential threat to personnel.

Acknowledgements: Funded by the EU Next Generation EU through the Recovery and Resilience Plan for Slovakia under the project No. 09I03-03-V01- 00151.

  • Open access
  • 9 Reads
Case Report on Canine Parvoviral Enteritis of Mixed-Breed dog

This report describes the case of a Mixed-breed dog brought to the teaching Veterinary Clinical Complex of the College of Veterinary Science & Animal Husbandry, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh. Based on clinical signs, a canine parvovirus type 2 (CPV-2) infection was diagnosed. A rectal swab sample was collected and the clinical diagnosis was confirmed by the positive results obtained by a commercially available rapid antigen testing kit (Ubio QuickVet CPV antigen testing kit. The prognosis of this disease depends on the virulence of the virus strain as well as the response of the organism to the treatment. However, it is also important that the treatment is started as soon as possible, because without it, the prognosis could be fatal. The necessary Antibiotic, Anti-diarrheal, Antacid, Anti-emetic, Vitamin B & C and fluids for restoring the fluid lost and the electrolyte imbalance, were administered in proper dosages according to the level of dehydration and body weight of the dog. The treatment regimen was continued for 6 days, and the pet owner was instructed not to give food and water for 6 days and the prognosis of dog was satisfactory. After six days of intensive supportive therapy, the dog showed marked clinical improvement with cessation of vomiting and hemorrhagic diarrhea. Hydration status, mucous membrane color, and appetite gradually normalized. The overall prognosis was satisfactory with complete recovery observed.

  • Open access
  • 13 Reads
Strengthening Veterinary Biosecurity and One Health Approaches for Zoonotic Disease Prevention in Sub-Saharan Africa

Introduction: Zoonotic diseases are a persistent threat to public health and veterinary systems worldwide, with sub-Saharan Africa particularly vulnerable due to high livestock density, porous borders, and limited disease surveillance capacity. Strengthening veterinary biosecurity within a One Health framework is essential for preventing, detecting, and responding to these risks.

Methods: This work draws on professional experience in biosecurity regulation at the National Biosafety Management Agency of Nigeria, combined with a review of relevant literature on zoonotic disease management. Case examples, including the spread of African swine fever and the increasing challenge of antimicrobial resistance in livestock, were examined to highlight current gaps in veterinary biosecurity systems.

Results: Findings indicate that weaknesses in laboratory infrastructure, limited access to molecular diagnostic tools, and insufficient coordination between veterinary and public health agencies hinder timely outbreak detection and response. However, targeted interventions—such as the application of molecular diagnostics, improved vector control strategies, and capacity building for veterinary professionals—show significant potential for strengthening surveillance and containment efforts.

Conclusions: Integrating veterinary biosecurity into national and regional One Health strategies offers a pathway to improve resilience against transboundary animal diseases and emerging zoonoses. Strengthening policies, enhancing international collaboration, and investing in diagnostic and biosafety infrastructure are critical to safeguarding both animal and human health. This contribution underscores the urgent need for sustainable, evidence-based approaches to protect sub-Saharan Africa from future biological threats.

  • Open access
  • 17 Reads
Sarcoptic mange in crab-eating fox (Cerdocyon thous) roadkill on BR-135 road in Bahia, Brazil: A Case Report
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Sarcoptic mange in wild canids poses important challenges for both species conservation and public health, primarily due to the risk of cross-species transmission, including to humans. Cerdocyon thous is widely distributed across Brazil, except for the Amazon lowlands. This species occupies a range of habitats, including forests, savannas, grasslands, and areas altered by human activity, such as agricultural lands, pastures, and regenerating zones. Despite its broad distribution, there is limited documentation of sarcoptic mange in wild canid roadkill specimens, particularly involving Cerdocyon thous in Brazil. This case report describes the findings from an adult male Cerdocyon thous specimen found dead during a roadkill monitoring campaign. Upon examination of the carcass, extensive skin lesions were observed, primarily on the face, ears, and extremities. These lesions were characterized by areas of hair loss, dandruff, and crust formation. Skin samples from the affected regions were carefully collected, preserved in a container with 70% alcohol, and submitted to the Veterinary Parasitology Laboratory at PUC-PR (Pontifical Catholic University of Paraná) for analysis. Microscopic examination confirmed the presence of Sarcoptes scabiei, with both eggs and adult mites identified. Notably, live mites were still present on the carcass, underscoring the zoonotic potential of sarcoptic mange and the risk of transmission to other mammals, including domestic animals, wildlife, and humans. This also highlights its potential impact on species conservation. These findings emphasize the importance of enhanced epidemiological surveillance, environmental education, and integrated One Health strategies to monitor and mitigate the spread of sarcoptic mange in wildlife populations.

  • Open access
  • 10 Reads
Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Parasites in Captive Deer Populations of Punjab, Pakistan
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Gastrointestinal parasites are a major health challenge in captive wildlife, reducing Tthe survival, reproduction, and conservation value of endangered and vulnerable species. The health and sustainability of captive deer species that are significant to the environment, culture, and economy are compromised by parasitic illnesses. Limited information is available on parasitic prevalence in captive deer species of Pakistan, creating gaps in wildlife health management. In this study, a total of 120 fresh fecal samples were collected from Hog Deer (Axis porcinus), Fallow Deer (Dama dama), and Blackbuck (Antilope cervicapra) housed in zoological gardens of Punjab. Samples were examined using flotation, sedimentation, and McMaster egg-per-gram (EPG) quantification techniques. Identified parasites were categorized, and infection prevalence was analyzed in relation to host factors (species, age, sex) and environmental seasonality. Overall, 65.8% of fecal samples were positive for at least one parasite species. Different parasite taxa were recorded, including protozoa (Trypanosoma, Babesia), cestodes (Moniezia expansa, M. benedeni), nematodes (Trichuris globulosa, Strongyloides papillosus, Haemonchus contortus), and trematodes (Paramphistomum cervi). Trypanosoma spp. had the highest prevalence (37.5%), followed by Babesia (20.0%). Hog Deer exhibited the greatest infection burden (50%), followed by Fallow Deer (26.6%) and Blackbuck (23.3%). Significant correlations between infection prevalence and host-related parameters were found through epidemiological study. Male deer showed a somewhat higher incidence than females, and younger animals were more vulnerable to parasitic diseases. Environmental conditions substantially encourage parasite survival and transmission, as seen by seasonal patterns showing higher parasite burdens during warm and humid months. This study highlights a high prevalence and diversity of gastrointestinal parasites in captive deer populations of Punjab. The findings underscore the need for routine surveillance, targeted deworming, and improved management of captive environments to reduce parasite loads. These measures are critical for safeguarding deer health, preventing cross-transmission to domestic animals, and strengthening wildlife conservation programs in Pakistan.

  • Open access
  • 11 Reads
Identification of Pathogens Causing Abortion in Sheep: Clinical Patterns
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Introduction: Abortion in sheep, a major global economic concern, causes significant losses in livestock industries, particularly in regions reliant on sheep farming. It is often caused by infectious agents like Neospora caninum, Chlamydia abortus, Listeria monocytogenes, Mycoplasma spp., and Brucella spp. These pathogens induce abortions at varying gestational stages with distinct clinical signs, such as placental damage (N. caninum), late-gestation placentitis (C. abortus), or systemic infections with mastitis or lameness (Mycoplasma, Brucella),

Methods: Samples from aborted fetuses, placentas, and maternal tissues in four affected flocks were analyzed. PCR assays targeted N. caninum (Nc-5), C. abortus (omp1), L. monocytogenes (hly), Mycoplasma spp., and Brucella spp., with primer sets validated against reference strains for specificity and sensitivity.

Results: Two flocks tested positive for N. caninum, showing mid-gestation abortions with placental lesions. Two flocks had Mycoplasma spp., linked to late abortions, mastitis, and lameness. No L. monocytogenes was detected, despite some respiratory or neurological signs in ewes.

Conclusion: Diverse pathogens cause sheep abortions, with distinct gestational timing and clinical signs aiding diagnosis. Molecular detection enables rapid pathogen identification, vital for early intervention and preventing disease spread in flocks. Targeted control reduces economic losses. Molecular tools enhance veterinary epidemiology, improving disease management in livestock.

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