Vesicular exanthema of swine (VES), an acute, febrile, infectious viral disease of pigs derives its significance in veterinary medicine from its first detection in Southern California, USA in 1932 having clinically look-a-like features with three other prevalent porcine vesicular diseases caused by foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV), vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV), swine vesicular disease virus (SVDV). The causative agent belongs to the genus Vesivirus in the family Caliciviridae. VESV serotypes are highly infectious in swine with morbidity of up to 90%. The spread of VES occurs chiefly in three ways: the feeding of raw garbage containing infected raw pork scraps, direct contact with infected swine, and contact with mechanical carriers, including people and vehicles. Vesicular lesions in the oral cavity on the epithelium of the snout, lips, nostrils, tongue, feet and mammary glands, soles, coronary bands and interdigital areas of the feet with lameness were the hallmark of disease in all species. Vesicles alike to those of FMD, VS and SVD are observed in VES, hence all these diseases are considered for differential diagnosis of VES. Clinical materials from vesicles e.g., vesicular fluid, epithelium covering vesicle should be collected in sterile glycerol phosphate buffer solution for diagnosis using molecular techniques. VESV can be readily propagated in mammalian cell cultures of African green monkey kidney or pig kidney cells. No vaccine was developed for VES. Being eradicated, there is no current threat of VES.

Oxidative stress (OS) occurs as the equilibrium shifts toward an excess of reactive oxygen species (ROS). A disproportion between free radical species or prooxidants and body’s capacity to scavenge them causes OS. ROS and antioxidants sojourn a state of equilibrium in the body. ROS are vital indicator molecules in physiological, functional and pathological processes of the female reproductive tract. ROS have an outcome on various physiological and reproductive processes, including oocyte maturation, fertilisation, embryo formation, and pregnancy. The age-linked decrease in fertility is impacted by OS. Antioxidants can shield the ovarian epithelium from oxidative impairment and DNA loss. The pathophysiology of endometriosis, preeclampsia, unexplained infertility, abortions, free radical-induced birth defects are linked to the OS in female reproduction. The aetiology of female reproductive disorders shows composite interaction between OS and cytokines. The amount of OS biomarkers helps in detecting disorders in female reproduction. This review discusses the OS-associated female infertility, OS management and early action for the avoidance of reproductive disorders and the antioxidant interventions that can be prescribed as add-on to correct the female reproductive disorders.

The study focused on the Myf6 gene associated with myogenesis, investigating its genetic variations and evolutionary dynamics

in Large White Yorkshire and Non-descript pigs from Punjab. This study focused on the Myf6 gene, a crucial regulator of myogenesis, to explore its genetic variations, evolutionary dynamics, and functional significance across species. Nucleotide sequence analysis revealed novel single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and indels, with a transversion mutation identified in Non-descript pigs in the intronic region of intron 2, potentially influencing gene expression through intron-mediated regulation. These findings offer genomic selection potential for breeding pigs with desired meat traits. The identified Myf6 variations could serve as markers for efficient breeding, benefiting pig production. Additionally, genetic characterization aids Non-descript pig conservation and management. This study informs Myf6 evolution, breeding strategies, and indigenous breed preservation.

Canine distemper virus is a single-stranded RNA virus of the genus Morbillivirus family Paramyxoviridae. It causes a serious, highly contagious, often fatal, disease of dogs and many carnivores resulting in respiratory and gastro-intestinal disease with frequent involvement of the central nervous system. Although vaccination against CDV disease has been widely used for many decades, this infection still represents an important disease of dogs. Though conventional RT-PCR is widely used for the diagnosis of CDV, Real-time RT-PCR because of its ease of performance and high sensitivity gained more attention. In this study we have optimized SYBR green based Real-time RT-PCR for detection of CDV and also compared its performance with conventional PCR. A total of 228 fecal samples/rectal swabs were collected and tested for CDV using Real-time RT-PCR targeting N gene and conventional RT-PCR targeting partial H and N genes. In real time RT-PCR 24 samples were found positive while only 17 were positive by conventional RT-PCR.

The average least square means of birth weight, weight at 1-, 3-, 6- and 12-months were observed as 1.76 ± .06, 4.13 ± .15, 8.94 ±. 31, 13.81 ±. 53 and 23.23 ± 1.00 and 1.81 ±. 07, 4.02 ±. 15, 8.41 ± .35, 13.06 ± .51 and 26.51 ± .75 kg in male and female, respectively having insignificant sex difference (p<.05). ADG1 (birth-weaning) and ADG2 (weaning-six month) were found as 54.13 ± 2.65 and 54.30 ± 2.89 and 47.41±3.00 and 51.08±4.58 g/d in male and female, respectively. Both ADG did not differ (p>.05) between sexes. Sire, region, birth type, dam’s parity and season of birth, birth type×kid sex and birth type×birth season impacted growth traits mostly in the earlier stages. Season of birth (p<.001) and its interaction with birth type (p<.05) affected 12-months body weight. Dam parity (p<.05) and birth type (p<.001) influenced ADG1 and sire (p<.05) and season of birth (p<.05) influenced ADG2. Only 5% of the F1 does manifested behavioural oestrus within 1 year of age. Boer × BB F1 crossbreds gained more than two times higher than BB goats under similar extensive management and environment. Since dams are BB, therefore, litter size remains unaffected. It suggests that goat farmers in Bangladesh can have more than two times higher benefit by producing this type of crossbreds. As sex of the kids does not affect body weight and body weight gain, animals of both sexes may be recommended for slaughter without further breeding.

A study was conducted to estimate the effect of poultry litter amended with sodium bisulphate and alumsulphateon nutrient composition of poultry litter before and after composting. Three experiments were conducted in different seasons (summer, rainy & winter) of the year. Earlier 240 day old commercial broiler chicks were reared under similar environment conditions and their litter was collected after 42 days and was composted under natural conditions. The experiment includes control group (Tc) having no litter amendments whereas treatment groups include litter amendment with sodium bisulphate @ 25 gm/sq.ft. (Ts) and litter amendment with alum sulphate @ 90 gm/sq.ft. (TL). The whole litter comprising treated rice husk, droppings, feed remnants etc. collected from each group was tested for nutritive value before and after composting and release of nitrous oxide (N2O) gas during the composting period. The nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P) and Potassium (K) content of the compost was estimated at 0, 30, 60 and 90 days of the composting period. The gas samples were collected on day 0, 20, 40, 60 and 90 days during the composting period. The data revealed that at zero and 30th day of composting period there was a significant (p ≤ 0.05) higher values of nitrogen in Ts and TL groups as compared to control group. The phosphorus and potassium content in different treatment groups was non-significant at different intervals of composting. The nitrous oxide emission was also more from the treatment groups as compared to control group.

Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus ticks transmit the Babesia spp transovarially, with nymphal and adult stages capable of transmitting the disease. The present study was aimed to investigate the possibility of transmission of Babesia spp by male ticks under natural field condition. A PCR assay was standardized to detect the B. bigemina transmission in Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus male ticks. The amplified PCR products were run on 1.5% agarose gel to visualize a 175 bp band indicating positive for B. bigemina. Upon screening 120 male ticks for presence of B. bigemina transmission stages, none of them showed amplification, which indicates male ticks may not be responsible for natural transmission of B. bigemina under field condition. But this study needs further investigation by expanding sample size to confirm potential for transmission of Babesia spp. by male ticks.

The study was conducted at VCC, DUVASU, Mathura, during the period of November, 2021 to October, 2022a total of 145 cattle and 155 buffaloes suspected to be affected with theileriosis were examined using PCR technique for identification of T. annulata. The overall prevalence of theileriosis in cattle and buffaloes was found 7.19% (n=) and 3.32% (n=), respectively. The prevalence in suspected cattle and buffaloes was found 78.62% and 49.23%. Highest prevalence in cattle (91.66%) and buffalo (64.28%) was recorded during the month of April and lowest prevalence was recorded during October month in cattle (42.85%) and December month in buffaloes (10%). Prevalence of theileriosis was recorded higher in female cattle (82.30%) as compared to males (46.66%) however, no variation on the basis of sex was observed in buffaloes. Significant increase in the prevalence was observed in cattle (χ2 = 6.24, p = 0.044) and buffaloes (χ2 = 12.856, p = 0.002) on the basis of age. Significant increase in the prevalence of theileriosis was observed in different breeds of cattle (χ2=8.913, p=0.030) while, in buffaloes (χ2 = 0.039, p = 0.844), no significant variation in the prevalence was recorded on the basis of breed. Significant variation was observed in different parity of buffaloes (χ2 = 12.361, p = 0.006), highest prevalence were recorded in buffaloes have > 3 parity, but no variation is observed in different parity of cattle (χ2 = 4.789 p = 0.091). No variation was observed in the prevalence of theileriosis in cattle (χ2 = 3.817, p = 0.051) and buffaloes (χ2 = 0.460, p = 0.498) on the basis of pregnancy.

A study was conducted to elucidate normal gross morphometrical and histological features in heart of 21 goats at different stages of postnatal development ranging from birth to three years. The specimens were divided into three age groups viz., group-I (less than 6 months), group-II (6 to 12 months) and group-III (above 12 months to 3 years). The goat heart was somewhat flattened cone shaped and consisted of four chambers. The mean values of length, maximum width and circumference at base of the heart increased significantly from birth to 3 years. The length of cranial and caudal borders of heart as well as length and maximum width of right and left ventricles showed significant increase with age. The mean heart weight and mean volume were 160.17 ±15.02 g and 162.13 ±14.53 cc, respectively in between above 12 months to 3 years. The wall of all four chambers of the heart was consisted of three layers viz., epicardium, myocardium and endocardium. The epicardium was composed of mesothelium and thin sheet of loose connective tissue. Myocardium was formed by cardiac muscle bundles embedded in loose connective tissue and oriented in various directions. Purkinje fibres were observed between myocardial bundles and endocardium. Group of adipose cells was also noticed in the endocardium layer of adult goats. Gross morphometrical data of goat heart at various stages of development would help diagnosis and treatment of cardiac diseases in goats.

A research was conducted in broiler chicken to study the pathological effects of an organophosphorous fungicide, Kitazin used against rice blast in paddy. To assess the acute toxic effect, 48 day old broiler chicks were randomly divided in four groups of 12 birds each. After one week of acclimatization period, a single oral dose of Kitazin was administered @ 300 mg, 600 mg and 900 mg/ Kg body weight to group 2 (T1), group 3 (T2) and group 4 (T3) respectively. To assess the sub acute toxic effect, 48 day old broiler chicks were randomly divided in four groups of 12 birds each. After one week of acclimatization period, Kitazin was incorporated in the feed @ 100 ppm, 200 ppm and 400 ppm to group 2 (T1), group 3 (T2) and group 4 (T3) respectively for a period of 6 weeks. In both the studies the group 1 birds served as control (C). A detailed necropsy examination of different experimental groups was conducted on 14th and 21st day of age in acute study and on 49th day for sub acute study. Grossly, severe congestion of most of the visceral organs and reduction in the size of lymphoid organs in both acute and subacute toxicity with Kitazin were observed. Histopathologically, there were degeneration of hepatocytes, mononuclear infiltration, nephrosis and necrosis in visceral organs. Brain showed perivascular cuffing, chromatolysis, neuronophagia and spongiform changes. From the present study the immunosuppressive and pathological effects of kitazin were confirmed and the effects found to be dose dependent.

Mastitis in dairy cows is a condition that is seen as being economically significant. The major pathogen in infectious bovine mastitis is known to be Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). The production of biofilms is a rising concern in human and animal health. Because of the minimal association between standard in vitro antimicrobial susceptibility to antimicrobial therapy efficacy, it was hypothesized that biofilm could play a significant role in the establishment of chronic S. aureus bovine mastitis. This research aims to isolate and characterize S. aureus strains from mastitic milk of bovine animals to evaluate biofilm formation by in vitro phenotypic tests like Congo red agar (CRA) and Microtitre plate (MTA) assay and molecular detection used to find specific biofilm-forming genes icaA (intercellular adhesion gene A) and icaD (intercellular adhesion gene D) and antimicrobial susceptibility testing. Traditional microbiology was used to isolate and identify S. aureus species, and the biofilmformin genes (icaA and icaD) were detected by polymerase chain reaction. A total of 60 mastitis milk samples were subjected to culture and isolation, out of which, 14 isolates were identified as S aureus. A sensitivity test for antimicrobial properties was performed on all the isolates in vitro using 16 antimicrobial agents. All isolates developed biofilms, with 9/14 (64%) strongly biofilm-forming, 3/14 (21%) moderately biofilm-forming, and 2/14 (14%) weakly biofilm-forming. The research demonstrated AMR, invasiveness, and biofilm formation in S. aureus isolated from bovine mastitis. This feature adds to the difficulties of current antibiotic therapy.

The present study was conducted on dogs presented to Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology Jammu, between March 2015 and December 2016. A total number of 5711 dogs were presented for treatment of variousailments and in health examination at Small Animal Medicine OPD of Referral Veterinary Hospital of the Faculty of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology Jammu. Out of which200 dogs were suspected to be suffering from TBD’s were screened and 100 dogs were found positive for different TBD’s and 5 were found positive for mixed Babesia canis and Babesia gibsoni infection. The prevalence of mixed Babesia canis and Babesia gibsoni infection was found to be 5 percent (based on PCR) with maximum occurrence in monsoon season. PCR was performed using standard protocol. No case was found positive in giemsa stained thin blood smear. Dogs in the age group of(1 - 5 year) found most susceptible (60%) to mixed Babesia canis and Babesia gibsoni. No systematic effort through conducting a planned study of dog population in the region has been done till date so present work was undertaken to determine prevalence of mixed Babesia canis and Babesia gibsoni. It was concluded mixed Babesia canis and Babesia gibsoni infection is present in this region and causes fatal disease in canines of this region.

Infectious Bovine Keratoconjunctivitis (IBK) of cattle is a common ocular bacterial infection caused by Moraxella bovis and characterized by blepharospasm, conjunctivitis, lacrimation, and varying degrees of corneal opacity and ulceration. In severe cases, ocular rupture leads to blindness. The economic impact of the disease is due to its high contagious nature, cost and time required for the treatment. Ethno-veterinary medicine provides low-cost alternatives to allopathic drugs. Research in such field is often undertaken as part of a community-based approach that serves to improve animal health especially in rural areas. Hence a study was conducted to evaluate the clinical effectiveness of the flowers of Tabernaemontana divaricate and Thespesia populnea, in crossbreed cattle, affected by IBK. The incidence of IBK (n=15) is 73.3% in young animals and 26.6% in adult animals. Out of fifteen infected animals, two animals were affected bilaterally [13.3%] and thirteen animals were affected unilaterally [86.6%]. The occurrence of disease was found in eleven animals that were infected during the autumn season [73.3%], three animals infected during the monsoon season [20%] and one animal was infected in summer season [6.6%]. The fresh juices of the flowers were poured on the affected eyes two times daily until cure. The overall success rate was achievedin fourteen animals [93.3%] with a mean recovery period 14.6 days. Further the  Pharmacognostic review of the medicinal properties and the phyto-constituents of the flowers substantiate the zero cost and safe therapy against IBK. 

Research study was conducted at the Department of A.H. and Dairying, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Small animal Nutrition laboratory at Prayagraj, India. The aim was to evaluate the efficacy of herbal preparation (Phyllanthus emblica and Curcuma longa) powder supplementation on caged broilers. The experiment involved four sets of day-old chicks, with each set comprising four groups: T0, T1, T2 and T3. The chicks in group Treatment0 were provided with a basic diet (as per FSSAI Specification), whereas chicks in Treatment1, Treatment2, and Treatment3 were fed a Controlled diet enriched with Indian gooseberry powder and Haldi powder, each single chick of them with an amount of 0.50%, throughout a four-week study period. Quantity of feed consumed each week and weekly records of the weight growth of the birds in each group were kept, and the feed conversion ratio (FCR) was calculated. The results of the study indicated significant variations in the average weight gain and FCR among the different treatment groups. Further analysis and interpretation of the data provided valuable insights into the efficacy of (Phyllanthus emblica and Curcuma longa) powder supplementation on the expansion efficiency of caged broilers.

Present study was planned to compare meat quality characteristics of crossbred Hampshire pigs under two different housing systems. Forty crossbred Hampshire pigs of 2 to 3 months of age and with an average body weight of 10 kg were selected and kept under two housing system viz., deep litter and conventional concrete floor. 5 males and 5 females of each group were slaughtered at the age of 32 weeks for study of meat quality. The proximate composition, physico-chemical properties (pH and water holding capacity), colour characteristics, shear force and organoleptic evaluation data were recorded. From the study on meat quality, it was revealed that crude protein% of Longissimus dorsi muscle of pigs in deep litter floor (Group II) was higher than conventional concrete floor housing system (Group I) while the % total ash content was higher in Group I than Group II. The mean pH value of L. dorsi muscle of pigs in deep litter was found to be significantly higher. The WHC of L. dorsi muscle of the pigs of Group II was found to be better as compared to Group I. The colour component had significantly higher b*components in Group I. Sensory ratings of the cooked L. dorsi muscle, it is seen that Group II were rated better for taste, juiciness and overall acceptability.