In The Gambia, malaria transmission persists due to insecticide resistance and residual vector behavior, despite extensive use of indoor residual spraying and insecticide-treated nets. Community-led larval source management using Bacillus thuringiensis var. israelensis (Bti) offers a sustainable vector control alternative. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness and feasibility of community-led Bti application for reducing Anopheles mosquito populations, compared to expert-supervised application and non-intervention control arms. A non-randomized controlled trial was conducted across malaria-endemic regions in The Gambia from 2023 to 2024. Intervention arms included: (1) community-led Bti application, (2) expert-supervised Bti application, and (3) untreated control. Trained volunteers and entomologists applied Bti to breeding sites at weekly or biweekly intervals. Entomological surveys were conducted biweekly to monitor larval, pupal, and adult mosquito densities. Data were analyzed using generalized linear mixed models and negative binomial regression, adjusting for environmental covariates. By round 10, community-led and expert-supervised interventions achieved 96.8% and 98.6% reductions in larval density, 97.4% and 99.1% reductions in pupal emergence, and 96.2% and 98.8% reductions in adult mosquito populations, respectively. Statistically significant declines in mosquito densities were observed by 2024 (p < 0.001). Community participation enabled high coverage and operational sustainability, with over 85% of participants reporting visible mosquito reduction. Seasonal Bti application, especially when led by trained community members, significantly suppresses Anopheles populations. Although expert-supervised methods yielded slightly higher efficacy, community-led biolarviciding offers a scalable, sustainable, and environmentally safe vector control strategy, supporting The Gambia’s malaria elimination goals.

Local Indonesian chickens possess valuable dual-purpose traits for both meat and egg production, but exhibit lower productivity compared to commercial breeds. Genetic enhancement through selective crossbreeding and molecular marker analysis, such as growth hormone (GH) gene polymorphism, offers a strategy to improve performance traits. This study aimed to characterize quantitative traits and analyze GH gene polymorphism in crossbred chickens resulting from mating Arab chickens with five indigenous breeds. Five local breeds, Kampung Super, Sentul, Bangkok, Kampung, and Merawang, were each crossed with Arabian chickens using a 1:7 male-to-female ratio. Phenotypic evaluations included body weight (BW), weight gain, and 18 morphometric traits measured at various ages. Egg traits were monitored for 4 weeks. GH gene polymorphism was identified in 500 crossbred individuals using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) with the AluI enzyme restriction. Data were analyzed through a one-way analysis of variance and General Linear Models to determine phenotypic and genotypic associations. Significant differences (p < 0.05) in BW, BW gain, morphometric size, and egg traits were observed among parental and crossbred groups. Kampung Super × Arab chickens showed the highest performance across growth and reproductive metrics. The highest weight gain occurred between 2 and 3 months of age. Back height emerged as a key morphometric indicator of growth differences. PCR-RFLP revealed GH gene polymorphism with three genotypes: (+/+), (+/−), and (−/−). The (+/+) genotype had a significant (p < 0.05) positive impact on BW, weight gain, and back height. All populations were in Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium, and polymorphic information content values (~0.437) indicated moderate genetic diversity. This study is the first comprehensive integration of morphometric, phenotypic, and GH genotypic data in Indonesian crossbred chickens. The findings support the implementation of marker-assisted selection to enhance growth traits in breeding programs. Future work should assess multi-generational effects and integrate additional molecular markers to optimize breeding strategies across tropical poultry systems.

Acinetobacter baumannii is a multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogen notorious for its biofilm formation and persistence in clinical and veterinary settings. Its resistance is exacerbated by quorum sensing (QS) pathways that regulate virulence and biofilm maturation. Disrupting QS and biofilm integrity using plant-derived compounds presents a promising alternative to traditional antibiotics. This study aimed to evaluate the antibiofilm and anti-QS potential of Paederia foetida Linn. ethanolic extract against A. baumannii, integrating gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) profiling, molecular docking, and in vitro assays. Leaves of P. foetida were extracted with ethanol and analyzed by GC-MS to identify major bioactive constituents. Molecular docking was conducted against five QS and biofilm-associated A. baumannii proteins (AF-A0A7S8WE28-F1-v4, AF-A0A059ZL64-F1-v4, AF-Q2VSW6-F1-v4, AF-A0A2P1B9S4-F1-v4, and AF-A0A5P9VY74-F1-v4). Absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADMET) profiles and drug-likeness of key compounds were assessed in silico. Antimicrobial activity was determined by broth microdilution (minimum inhibitory concentration [MIC]/minimum bactericidal concentration [MBC]), and biofilm inhibition was evaluated through crystal violet microtiter assays. Morphological damage was examined using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM). GC-MS identified 30 phytoconstituents, with 5-hydroxymethyl-2-furaldehyde, 4H-pyran-4-one derivative, and eugenol as predominant compounds. Eugenol exhibited the highest binding affinity, particularly with AbaR (−6.3 kcal/mol). The extract showed significant antimicrobial activity (MIC = 7.81 mg/mL; MBC = 31.25 mg/mL) and dose-dependent inhibition of biofilm biomass (p < 0.001). FE-SEM imaging confirmed dose-responsive membrane damage and disruption of the biofilm. ADMET predictions revealed favorable oral bioavailability and low toxicity for selected compounds. P. foetida extract exhibits potent antibacterial, anti-QS, and antibiofilm activity against MDR A. baumannii, supported by its phytochemical diversity, favorable pharmacokinetics, and strong protein-ligand interactions. These findings suggest its promise as a plant-derived therapeutic aligned with the One Health framework to combat antimicrobial resistance in both human and veterinary medicine.

White spot syndrome virus (WSSV) is a devastating pathogen in shrimp aquaculture, with viral protein 28 (VP28) playing a critical role in host cell attachment and entry. The extracellular domain of VP28 (residues 35–95) is immunogenic and essential for infection; however, its receptor interaction mechanisms remain incompletely elucidated. This study aimed to evaluate the tissue-binding affinity of full-length VP28 and its derived peptides (P1: Residues 35–65; P2: Residues 66–95) as well as a multimeric chimeric virus-like particle (K5-VLP) displaying VP28 on the surface of Macrobrachium rosenbergii nodavirus capsids to enhance host tissue interaction. Recombinant VP28, synthetic peptides (P1, P2), and chimeric K5-VLP were produced and characterized. Binding and inhibition assays were performed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and immunofluorescence microscopy on shrimp gill, hemocyte, muscle, stomach, and hepatopancreas tissues. Full-length VP28 exhibited strong binding to gill, hemocyte, and muscle tissues. The P1 and P2 peptides showed moderate binding compared to rVP28. Notably, K5-VLP demonstrated a 1.7-fold higher binding affinity than rVP28 in gill tissues and significantly outperformed P1 and P2 peptides. Inhibition assays confirmed that K5-VLP more effectively interfered with VP28 binding than peptides. Structural analysis and transmission electron microscopy confirmed correct assembly and surface presentation of VP28 on the VLPs. Multimeric display of VP28 on K5-VLP enhances its binding affinity to shrimp tissues compared to monomeric or peptide forms. This suggests a promising platform for antiviral strategies, including competitive inhibition of WSSV entry and targeted therapeutic delivery in shrimp aquaculture.

The small intestinal microbiota plays a pivotal role in poultry digestion and immune function. Rearing systems can influence their composition, thereby affecting the overall health and performance of the birds. This study aimed to investigate how rearing systems (intensive [IN] vs. free-range [FR]) and immune status, reflected by leukocyte profiles, influence the small intestinal microbiome of IPB-D3 chickens, a genetically improved Indonesian local breed. Ninety IPB-D3 chickens were reared for 12 weeks under either IN or FR systems. Hematological profiling was conducted to assess health status, with leukocyte counts used to stratify birds. Microbiota samples from the small intestine were analyzed using full-length 16S ribosomal RNA (V1–V9) sequencing on the Oxford Nanopore platform. Taxonomic identification was performed using the SILVA database. Statistical comparisons were made using t-tests, and microbial diversity was assessed through alpha and beta diversity metrics. While most hematological parameters did not differ significantly between rearing systems, total leukocyte counts were higher in intensively reared chickens (p = 0.002). FR chickens exhibited significantly greater microbial diversity (p < 0.05) across multiple alpha diversity indices. A total of 1,294 unique species were identified in FR birds versus 720 in the IN group, with 1,761 shared species. Leukocyte level further influenced microbial profiles; chickens with high leukocyte (HL) counts were dominated by Ligilactobacillus aviarius, whereas low-leukocyte chickens had a higher abundance of Bacteroides caecigallinarum. Gallibacterium anatis, a potential pathogen, dominated in IN systems with elevated leukocytes. This study demonstrates that both the rearing environment and immune status substantially influence small intestinal microbial composition in IPB-D3 chickens. FR systems promoted richer, more beneficial microbial communities, while IN systems, especially with HL levels, were associated with opportunistic pathogens. Leukocyte profiling may serve as a non-invasive biomarker for gut health, supporting future development of precision poultry management strategies and immune-responsive probiotics.

Coccidiosis is a widespread protozoan disease that severely impacts poultry health and productivity. The Qinghao Changshan (QHCS) formula, composed of multiple traditional Chinese medicinal herbs, is widely used in China for coccidiosis control. Despite its proven clinical efficacy, the molecular mechanisms underlying its therapeutic action remain poorly understood. This study aimed to elucidate the active components and molecular mechanisms of QHCS against coccidiosis using an integrated approach combining network pharmacology and molecular docking. Active compounds of QHCS were identified from public pharmacological databases based on criteria of oral bioavailability ≥ioa and drug-likeness ≥rug-l Targets of these compounds were predicted using SwissTargetPrediction and PharmMapper, and disease-related genes were retrieved from GeneCards, DrugBank, OMIM (Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man), and Therapeutic Target Database. Overlapping targets were visualized using Venn diagrams, and protein–protein interaction (PPI) networks were constructed using STRING and Cytoscape. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses were conducted to explore relevant biological functions and pathways. Molecular docking was used to validate interactions between selected active compounds (isorhamnetin, kaempferol, quercetin) and key targets (epidermal growth factor receptor [EGFR], estrogen receptor 1 [ESR1], progesterone receptor [PGR]). Sixty-nine active compounds and 3476 potential targets of QHCS were identified, with 11 targets overlapping with 87 coccidiosis-related genes. Eight core targets–Amyloid Beta Precursor Protein, interleukin 6, TNF Receptor Associated Factor 1, Platelet Derived Growth Factor Receptor Beta, EGFR, ESR1, Erb-B2 Receptor Tyrosine Kinase 2, and PGR–were identified through PPI network analysis. GO and KEGG enrichment revealed key pathways including focal adhesion, calcium signaling, mitogen-activated protein kinase, ErbB signaling pathway, forkhead box O, and gap junction pathways. Molecular docking confirmed strong binding affinities of isorhamnetin, kaempferol, and quercetin to EGFR, ESR1, and PGR, supporting their regulatory roles in these signaling pathways. QHCS exhibits anti-coccidial activity by modulating multiple signaling pathways and molecular targets through its key bioactive constituents. These findings provide mechanistic insights into the therapeutic effects of QHCS and lay a theoretical foundation for its broader application in veterinary parasitology.

Tropical climates expose livestock to prolonged heat stress, leading to compromised health, growth, and productivity. Nutritional interventions using omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants may improve resilience in such environments. This study evaluated the effects of lemuru fish oil (LO), vitamin E, and selenium – individually and in combination – on hematological, physiological, antioxidant, and growth parameters of Garut lambs exposed to tropical heat stress. Forty male Garut lambs (23.52 ± 2.51 kg; 9–10 months old) were randomly assigned to five dietary groups: Control (CNT), LO (6%, LO), LO + 500 IU Vitamin E, LO + 0.5 ppm selenium, and LO + both Vitamin E and selenium (LOES). The 60-day trial took place during the dry season under severe to extreme heat stress conditions (temperature-humidity index: 25.13–40.07). Parameters assessed included nutrient intake, physiological responses, blood hematology, antioxidant status, and growth performance. Supplementation with LO and antioxidants significantly improved hematological indicators (e.g., hemoglobin), enhanced antioxidant defenses (e.g., increased superoxide dismutase [SOD] and glutathione, reduced malondialdehyde [MDA], and cortisol levels), and stabilized physiological responses (e.g., lower rectal temperature and heart rate). The LOES group showed the most pronounced improvements: SOD increased by 107%, MDA decreased by 62%, and cortisol levels were reduced by 28% compared to the CNTs. However, no significant differences were observed in average daily gain or feed efficiency. The combination of LO with Vitamin E and selenium effectively mitigated heat-induced oxidative and physiological stress in Garut lambs. Although growth parameters remained unchanged, the improved physiological and antioxidant status suggests that these supplements may be valuable functional feed additives for enhancing animal welfare and resilience under heat stress. Further research is warranted to investigate the long-term effects on productivity and reproduction.

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) presents therapeutic challenges due to its aggressive nature and lack of targeted treatments. Programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) and interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) are key immune modulators in tumor immune evasion. Annonacin, a natural acetogenin from Annona species, has shown promising anticancer properties, though its immunomodulatory mechanisms remain underexplored. This study aimed to investigate the dual apoptotic and immunomodulatory effects of annonacin on PD-L1 and IFN-γ expression using combined molecular docking and in vitro assays in TNBC (4T1) cells. Molecular docking simulations were conducted to assess annonacin’s interaction with PD-L1 (Protein Data Bank [PDB] ID: 6PV9) and IFN-γ (PDB ID: 1FG9). In vitro experiments using 4T1 cells involved 3-(4,-5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assays for cytotoxicity, Annexin V-fluorescein isothiocyanate staining for apoptosis, and flow cytometry to analyze PD-L1 and IFN-γ expression following treatment with annonacin (1.5–25 μg/mL). Docking scores indicated moderate binding affinities of annonacin to IFN-γ (–5.2 kcal/mol) and PD-L1 (–5.0 kcal/mol), involving both hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions. Annonacin exhibited a selective cytotoxic effect on 4T1 cells with a half-maximal inhibitory concentration of 15 μg/mL and a selectivity index of 2.6. Apoptosis was induced in a concentration-dependent manner, with late apoptotic populations peaking at 25 μg/mL. PD-L1 and IFN-γ expression peaked at 6.25 μg/mL, followed by a decline at higher doses, suggesting a dose-dependent immunomodulatory shift from immune activation to suppression. Annonacin modulates immune checkpoint (PD-L1) and cytokine (IFN-γ) expression while promoting apoptosis in TNBC cells. These results highlight its potential as a dual-function anticancer agent, warranting further preclinical evaluation for use as a monotherapy or in combination with immunotherapies.

Dromedary camels exhibit unique immune adaptations that enable survival in harsh environments with high microbial exposure. However, the cellular mechanisms underpinning their innate immune responses, particularly oxidative respiratory bursts, remain underexplored. This study aimed to investigate the kinetics of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in camel leukocytes in response to selected bacterial and fungal pathogens and to assess the effect of serum opsonization on ROS generation. Whole blood from six clinically healthy female dromedary camels was stimulated with opsonized and non-opsonized Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae (three strains), and Candida albicans. Luminol-enhanced chemiluminescence (CL) assays were used to quantify ROS production over a 3-h period. Colony-forming units were evaluated to confirm microbial viability post-opsonization. Key ROS metrics included area under the curve, peak emission (relative light unit), and time to peak. Camel neutrophils demonstrated distinct pathogen-specific ROS kinetics. P. aeruginosa and K. pneumoniae 1705 elicited the highest total ROS on serum opsonization, whereas S. aureus and C. albicans showed minimal ROS induction. E. coli failed to induce a measurable ROS response. Serum opsonization significantly enhanced total ROS production and shortened peak response time for K. pneumoniae strains. In contrast, it reduced total ROS output for S. aureus and C. albicans without significantly affecting their peak kinetics. This study provides the first comprehensive analysis of microbial-specific ROS production in camel whole blood using a luminol-based CL assay. The findings underscore the variability in camel innate immune responses to different pathogens and highlight the modulatory role of serum opsonization. These insights could inform future strategies in camel immunotherapy, vaccine development, and disease diagnostics.

Doxorubicin, a widely used chemotherapeutic agent, is associated with reproductive toxicity due to its induction of oxidative stress and testicular damage. Emerging evidence suggests that rosuvastatin and ramipril may possess antioxidant and cytoprotective properties beyond their conventional uses. However, their comparative efficacy in preventing doxorubicin-induced testicular toxicity remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate and compare the protective effects of rosuvastatin and ramipril on testicular function, oxidative stress markers, and reproductive outcomes in a rat model of doxorubicin-induced testicular toxicity. Twenty-four male Wistar rats were randomly allocated into four groups: Control, doxorubicin-only, rosuvastatin + doxorubicin, and ramipril + doxorubicin. Doxorubicin (5 mg/kg, intraperitoneal) was administered on days 7, 14, and 21, while rosuvastatin or ramipril (5 mg/kg/day, oral) was given for 21 days. On day 45, evaluations included testicular index, sperm count and motility, serum testosterone levels, oxidative stress markers (malondialdehyde [MDA], nitric oxide [NO], glutathione [GSH]), and histopathological analysis using Johnsen scoring. Both rosuvastatin and ramipril significantly restored the testicular index compared to the doxorubicin group (p < 0.05). Ramipril markedly increased serum testosterone, GSH, and NO levels while reducing MDA. Sperm motility and count showed partial improvement, notably in the ramipril group. Histopathological alterations were attenuated in both treatment groups, with improved Johnsen scores and reduced architectural disruption. Ramipril and rosuvastatin mitigate doxorubicin-induced testicular toxicity through antioxidant mechanisms. Ramipril demonstrated superior efficacy in preserving reproductive hormone levels and sperm function. These findings highlight its potential as a fertility-protective agent during chemotherapy. Further long-term and mechanistic studies are warranted.

Lumpy skin disease (LSD) is a severe transboundary viral infection in cattle, caused by the LSD virus (LSDV), leading to economic losses in the livestock industry. Conventional live-attenuated vaccines face limitations such as strain recombination, incomplete protection, and adverse effects. Therefore, safer and more targeted vaccine strategies are urgently needed. This study aimed to design, simulate, and express a novel multi-epitope vaccine (MEV) candidate against LSDV using a computational immunoinformatic pipeline. Four immunogenic LSDV proteins – P35, A4L, A33R, and L1R – were selected based on their structural and antigenic significance. B- and T-cell epitopes were predicted and filtered using antigenicity, allergenicity, and toxicity criteria. Selected epitopes were linked using specific linkers and an adjuvant to construct an MEV. Molecular docking was performed with bovine toll-like receptors (TLRs), and stability was evaluated through molecular dynamic simulations (GROMACS and iMODS). Codon optimization and heterologous expression of the construct were performed in Escherichia coli using the pET-28a(+) vector. Expression was checked through sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and Western blot. A total of 23 epitopes from the four LSDV proteins were incorporated into a 514 amino acid-long vaccine construct. The designed construct demonstrated high antigenicity, non-allergenicity, solubility, and favorable physicochemical properties. Docking with bovine TLR4 revealed stable binding with significant interaction residues. Molecular dynamics confirmed structural stability over 50 ns simulations. The recombinant construct was successfully expressed as a ~59 kDa His-tagged protein in E. coli, confirmed by SDS-PAGE and Western blotting. This study demonstrates a comprehensive computational and experimental workflow for developing a multi-epitope subunit vaccine against LSDV. The MEV candidate shows strong immunogenic potential, structural stability, and recombinant expression feasibility, offering a promising alternative to traditional vaccines. Further in vivo evaluation is warranted to assess protective efficacy.

Avian influenza (AI) is a highly contagious zoonotic disease affecting birds and, occasionally, humans. Ecuador confirmed its first case of AI in late 2022, resulting in significant avian mortality and economic losses. In response, the Ecuadorian government implemented a mandatory control program emphasizing pre-vaccination diagnostics using reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) or enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. This study aimed to confirm the absence of AI virus type A in poultry across six major provinces of Ecuador following the 2022 outbreak, as part of the national eradication and vaccination campaign. A cross-sectional, retrospective molecular surveillance study was conducted from April 2023 to June 2024. A total of 343 pooled tracheal swab samples were collected from poultry farms in six provinces (Chimborazo, Cotopaxi, El Oro, Pastaza, Pichincha, and Tungurahua), covering over 1 million birds. The samples were analyzed using real-time RT-qPCR, targeting the M gene, and subtype-specific genes (H5, H7, and H7N9). All 343 pooled samples (100%) tested negative for AI virus type A, suggesting an absence of active viral circulation during the study period. The implementation of pre-vaccination testing and biosecurity protocols contributed to this outcome. The study confirms that AI virus type A was not circulating in Ecuadorian poultry during the surveillance period. These findings underscore the effectiveness of collaborative efforts among government, industry, and laboratories. Ongoing molecular surveillance remains essential for early detection and prevention of future outbreaks, reinforcing Ecuador’s commitment to One Health principles.

Coccidiosis, caused by Eimeria tenella, is a significant parasitic disease affecting poultry, resulting in severe intestinal damage and substantial economic losses. The increasing resistance to conventional anticoccidial drugs necessitates novel therapeutic strategies. This study aimed to synthesize and characterize a pyrazole-modified chitosan Schiff base–iron nanocomposite (ChSB-FeNPs) and evaluate its prophylactic and therapeutic effects against E. tenella in experimentally infected broiler chickens. ChSB-FeNPs were synthesized by incorporating iron nanoparticles into a pyrazole-modified chitosan Schiff base matrix and characterized using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscope (TEM) techniques. Sixty broiler chicks were randomly assigned to six groups: Uninfected controls, prophylactic and therapeutic ChSB-FeNPs treatments, and a standard amprolium treat-ment. Birds were infected with E. tenella and monitored over 28 days. Clinical signs, survival, body weight, feed conversion ratio (FCR), oocyst counts, lesion scores, liver enzyme activities (aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and alanine aminotransferase), lipid profiles (low-density lipoprotein, high-density lipoprotein), and histopathological changes were assessed. ChSB-FeNPs-treated groups (both prophylactic and therapeutic) showed significantly reduced oocyst output, lesion scores, liver enzyme elevations, and histopathological damage compared to infected untreated controls. Prophylactic ChSB-FeNPs treatment notably improved body weight gain and FCR, with efficacy comparable to or exceeding that of amprolium. TEM confirmed the nanocomposite size (~39.5 nm), and cytotoxicity assays demonstrated safety at 0.133 μg/mL. ChSB-FeNPs exhibited potent anticoccidial effects, offering both preventive and therapeutic benefits against E. tenella infection in broilers. This nanocomposite represents a promising, next-generation alternative to conventional anticoccidial drugs, warranting further investigation for large-scale application.

Dengue is a significant mosquito-borne viral disease with increasing public health relevance, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. Although it primarily affects humans, veterinary research plays a crucial role in understanding disease dynamics, particularly through the use of animal models and vector control strategies. This study aimed to analyze global research trends on dengue within the field of veterinary medicine between 2019 and 2024, identifying patterns in productivity, collaboration, and emerging thematic priorities. A bibliometric analysis was conducted using Scopus-indexed publications retrieved on December 15, 2024. The search included terms related to dengue and Aedes species within the veterinary subject area. Data were analyzed using SciVal for metrics and collaboration patterns and RStudio for statistical summaries and visua-lizations. Inclusion criteria encompassed peer-reviewed studies on dengue relevant to veterinary contexts published between 2019 and 2024. A total of 742 publications were identified across 67 journals, including 652 articles and 60 reviews. Annual output showed a 3.01% decline, with an average document age of 2.56 years and 9.0 citations per article. International collaboration was evident in 41.51% of publications, with Brazil, Argentina, and Australia emerging as key contributors. Thematic evolution demonstrated a shift from basic entomological studies (2019–2020) to applied control strategies, including Wolbachia-based mosquito interventions and citizen surveillance (2021–2022). The most prolific institutions were Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Brazil) and the University of Florida (USA), while the journal Parasites and Vectors had the highest publication volume. This bibliometric review highlights the growing interdisciplinary nature of dengue research in veterinary medicine and the pivotal role of international collaboration. The observed decline in publication rate underscores the need to reinvigorate research efforts. The findings advocate for a One Health approach integrating veterinary, ecological, and public health disciplines to address vector-borne diseases. Future efforts should focus on enhancing global partnerships, standardizing animal models, and supporting innovative vector control strategies to mitigate the burden of dengue.

Bovine leukemia virus (BLV) is a globally distributed retrovirus that causes enzootic bovine leu-kosis, a chronic infection associated with significant economic losses in cattle. Conventional serological diagnostic tools such as agar gel immunodiffusion and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay detect anti-BLV antibodies but cannot identify proviral DNA, especially in early infections or in calves with maternal antibodies. This study aimed to develop a sensitive and specific duplex quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assay targeting the env gene of BLV with β-actin as an internal control and apply it for molecular surveillance and genotyping of BLV in cattle from six regions of Kazakhstan. A total of 1,680 bovine DNA samples from cattle aged over 3 years were collected from six administrative regions of Kazakhstan. A duplex qPCR assay was developed using primers targeting a conserved region of the BLV env gene and bovine β-actin. Sensitivity was assessed using plasmid and genomic DNA dilutions, and specificity was tested against existing WOAH-recommended and commercial polymerase chain reaction (PCR) protocols. Positive samples with cycle threshold <28 were subjected to nested PCR and Sanger sequencing for genotyping. Phylogenetic analysis was conducted using the maximum likelihood method. The developed qPCR assay demonstrated a sensitivity of 20 plasmid copies for the env gene and 6 genomic equivalents for β-actin per reaction, with high specificity comparable to international standards. The overall BLV infection rate was 38.9%, ranging from 13% in Pavlodar to 60.5% in East Kazakhstan. Among 149 sequenced positive samples, four genotypes (G1, G4, G7, and G8) were identified. Genotype G4 was predominant, comprising 79.2% of sequences and present in all six regions. The duplex qPCR assay is a robust, sensitive, and cost-effective diagnostic tool for detecting BLV provirus, including in animals with maternal antibodies or early-stage infections. The regional genotypic distribution underscores the need for tailored control strategies. This molecular surveillance provides essential baseline data for national BLV eradication programs and contributes to global BLV epidemiological mapping.

Mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana) and turmeric (Curcuma longa) are medicinal plants with well-documented antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anticancer properties, attributed to α-mangostin and curcumin, respectively. While their individual bioactivities are recognized, their synergistic potential and standardization through analytical validation remain underexplored, particularly in veterinary and pharmacological applications. This study aimed to (1) evaluate the synergistic antibacterial, antioxidant, and anticancer effects of ethanolic extracts of mangosteen pericarp and turmeric rhizome and (2) develop and validate a high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method for the simultaneous quantification of their major bioactive compounds. Ultrasound-assisted extraction was employed to prepare ethanolic extracts. Antibacterial activities were assessed using disk diffusion, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), and minimum bactericidal concentration assays against five bacterial strains, with synergy evaluated through checkerboard fractional inhibitory concentration index. Antioxidant activity was measured by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging and total phenolic content (TPC). Cytotoxicity was assessed using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assays on human hepatocellular carcinoma cells (HepG2), human breast adenocarcinoma cells (MCF-7), and human normal fibroblast cells. A reversed-phase HPLC method was developed and validated to simultaneously quantify α-mangostin and curcumin in the combined extract. Mangosteen and turmeric extracts showed MICs of 3.12 and 31.25 μg/mL, respectively. Combined extracts demonstrated additive or synergistic effects against Gram-positive bacteria and enhanced the efficacy of gentamicin (up to 19-fold MIC reduction). The combined extract exhibited the strongest antioxidant activity (half-maximal inhibitory concentration = 5.78 μg/mL) and highest TPC (1227.38 mg gallic acid equivalent/g extract). Cytotoxic assays revealed selective inhibition of HepG2 and MCF-7 cells, with no toxicity toward normal fibroblasts. The validated HPLC method enabled accurate, simultaneous quantification of curcumin (73.23 mg/g extract) and α-mangostin (146.80 mg/g extract) with excellent linearity (R2 > 0.9995) and recovery (99.08%–104.72%). The combination of mangosteen and turmeric extracts exhibits potent, selective, and synergistic antibacterial and anticancer properties, along with enhanced antioxidant capacity. The validated HPLC method provides a reliable tool for quality control and standardization of such polyherbal formulations, supporting their potential for therapeutic and veterinary applications.

Feline chronic gingivostomatitis (FCGS) is a debilitating inflammatory condition of the oral cavity in cats, associated with chronic pain, salivation, halitosis, and reduced quality of life. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs) have known anti-inflammatory properties and may offer a supportive treatment option. This study aimed to evaluate the safety and clinical efficacy of two marine-derived n-3 PUFA sources – krill oil and green-lipped mussel (GLM) oil – administered through lickable cat treats in cats with FCGS. Sixteen FCGS cats were randomized into three double-blinded treatment groups to receive daily lickable treats: Control (no n-3 PUFA), krill oil (100 mg), or GLM oil (100 mg) for 28 days. Clinical outcomes (stomatitis and pain scores, halitosis, and salivation) were assessed on days 0, 14, and 28 by veterinarians. Owner-reported outcomes and inflammatory cytokine levels (interleukin 6, interleukin 1 beta, and interferon-gamma) were also evaluated. Both krill and GLM oil treatments were well-tolerated, with no adverse changes in body weight, hematological, or biochemical parameters. Mean stomatitis and pain scores showed a non-significant downward trend in all groups. Halitosis and salivation improved in seven cats, particularly in the GLM and control groups. Owner-reported improvement was observed in 10 of 16 cats, with the highest in the krill oil group (75%). Cytokine levels demonstrated high variability and no statistically significant changes. No significant differences were observed between the n-3 PUFA sources. Daily administration of n-3 PUFA-enriched cat treats is safe and may provide mild clinical benefit in cats with FCGS, particularly in alleviating oral discomfort. While no significant differences were found between krill and GLM oils, both formulations were palatable and suitable as adjunctive therapy. Further research with larger cohorts, extended durations, and sensitive scoring systems is warranted to optimize treatment protocols.

The reproductive efficiency of livestock, especially indigenous breeds such as Donggala bulls, is pivotal to successful breeding programs. While conventional semen parameters are widely used, molecular markers, such as sperm protein profiles and DNA integrity, are emerging as reliable indicators of fertility. This study aimed to characterize the sperm protein profiles of Donggala bulls and examine their correlation with sperm DNA integrity and protamine deficiency. Frozen semen samples were collected from six Donggala bulls (aged 5–7 years). Pre-freezing evaluations included progressive motility (via computer-assisted sperm analysis), sperm morphology (using Diff-Quik staining), DNA integrity (assessed by the acridine orange assay), and protamine deficiency (assessed by the chromomycin A3 assay). Protein concentrations were determined using the bicinchoninic acid assay, and protein profiling was performed using 1D sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Band intensities and distributions were analyzed using ImageJ. Statistical correlations were analyzed using a one-way analysis of variance and Pearson’s correlation coefficients. Significant individual variation was observed in semen quality among bulls. Progressive motility ranged from 38.3% to 46.1%, DNA integrity from 79.5% to 96.8%, and protamine deficiency from 96.0% to 98.7%. The number of protein bands per sample varied between 8 and 11, with molecular weights ranging from 5 to 175 kilodaltons (kDa). Protein concentration ranged from 8.32 to 20.70 μg/mL. A 35 kDa protein band was notably absent in one bull, which may be linked to lower motility. Strong correlations were observed between sperm motility and DNA fragmentation (r = 0.628), protamine deficiency (r = 0.539), protein concentration (r = 0.658), and protein band expression (r = 0.788). Sperm protein profiles in Donggala bulls are significantly correlated with DNA integrity and protamine deficiency, indicating their potential as molecular biomarkers for fertility prediction. These findings provide a foundation for integrating protein profiling into breeding soundness evaluations, suggesting that targeted proteomic analysis may enhance reproductive management strategies.

Laser acupuncture has emerged as a promising non-pharmacological approach to enhance productivity in livestock. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of laser acupuncture applied to specific back-shu points (Bladder [BL]13, BL15, and BL21) on growth performance, feed conversion ratio (FCR), feed efficiency (FE), and growth hormone (GH) levels in rabbits. A total of 24 male Hycole rabbits were randomly assigned to three groups (n = 8): Group A (placebo control), Group B (laser acupuncture on BL13, BL15, and BL21), and Group C (laser acupuncture on non-specific points). Treatments were conducted weekly over a 6-week period using a 0.2-joule semiconductor laser device. Body weight, feed intake, FCR, FE, and GH concentrations were recorded. GH levels were analyzed using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Data were statistically evaluated using a one-way analysis of variance followed by Duncan’s post hoc test. Group B showed significantly higher final body weight (1.97 ± 0.07 kg), weight gain (919 ± 128 g), GH levels (1.75 ± 0.12 ng/mL), improved FCR (2.67 ± 0.07), and greater FE (37.45% ± 1.09%) compared to Groups A and C (p < 0.05). No significant differences were observed between Groups A and C, indicating the importance of targeting precise acupuncture points for therapeutic effectiveness. Laser acupuncture at BL13, BL15, and BL21 significantly enhances metabolic efficiency, growth performance, and hormonal regulation in rabbits. The precision of point application is critical for achieving optimal physiological benefits. This technique provides a sustainable and non-invasive approach to enhancing feed utilization and productivity in rabbit farming and holds promise for broader application in modern animal husbandry.

Freshwater shrimps of the genus Macrobrachium play key ecological and socioeconomic roles in tropical freshwater ecosystems. However, their diversity, habitat associations, and conservation status remain understudied in Aceh Province, Indonesia. This study aimed to (1) assess the diversity and morphometric variation of Macrobrachium species, (2) map their distribution across lotic and lentic habitats in Aceh, (3) Assess the impact of environment variable on species composition and richness and (4) evaluate their conservation status based on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) criteria and local environmental threats. Field sampling was conducted from September 2022 to December 2023 across 24 sites spanning 13 districts. Specimens were collected using hand nets and traps, and identified using morphological and morphometric criteria. Environmental parameters (temperature, pH, velocity, and substrate) were recorded, and biodiversity indices were calculated. Species distribution and conservation status were analyzed using local distribution (LD) indices and IUCN Red List categories. A total of 1,303 Macrobrachium specimens representing 13 species were recorded. Macrobrachium lanchesteri was the most abundant and widely distributed species (LD = 50%), particularly in lentic habitats. Species such as Macrobrachium pilimanus and Macrobrachium lar showed narrow distributions. Lotic habitats supported higher species diversity (H’ = 1.28) compared to lentic ones. Environmental variables significantly influenced species presence. While 10 species were categorized as least concern, three species (Macrobrachium australe, Macrobrachium esculentum, Macrobrachium mammillodactylus) were unlisted by the IUCN, indicating data deficiency. Evidence of invasive species presence and habitat degradation was observed in several sites. Aceh hosts a diverse assemblage of Macrobrachium species, but they are vulnerable to anthropogenic disturbances and invasive species. The findings underscore the need for habitat conservation, sustainable fisheries management, and expanded monitoring–particularly for data-deficient species and those with narrow distributions. Molecular tools and long-term ecological monitoring are recommended for future research to better support regional conservation planning.

Trypanosoma lewisi is a flea-transmitted protozoan parasite commonly infecting rodents and posing zoonotic risks. Conventional diagnostics such as blood smear and serology often fail in low parasitemia conditions. Molecular diagnostics using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) offer improved sensitivity and specificity, but the optimal primer set for field detection remains unclear. This study aimed to compare the diagnostic performance of three published PCR primer sets–TC121/TC122, CATLew F/CATLew R, and LEW1S/LEW1R–for the detection of T. lewisi in wild Rattus spp. in Indonesia and determine the most reliable tool for field application. One hundred rat blood samples obtained from the Badan Riset dan Inovasi Nasional (BRIN), Research Center for Veterinary Science, Bogor, West Java Province, Indonesia were analyzed through PCR using the three primer sets under optimized thermal cycling conditions. DNA amplification products were visualized using agarose gel electrophoresis. Diagnostic performance was evaluated based on sensitivity and specificity calculations using microscopy as the reference standard. The LEW1S/LEW1R primer set demonstrated the highest diagnostic accuracy, detecting T. lewisi in 30 samples with 100% sensitivity and 97.22% specificity. CATLew F/CATLew R detected 29 positives with 96.43% sensitivity and 97.22% specificity, whereas TC121/TC122 detected 21 positives, yielding 67.86% sensitivity and 97.22% specificity. Only the LEW1S/LEW1R primer set consistently produced single, distinct amplicons with no non-specific bands. LEW1S/LEW1R is the most sensitive and diagnostically reliable primer set for PCR-based detection of T. lewisi, particularly suitable for low-resource settings where accurate and early detection is crucial. Its implementation in surveillance programs can strengthen zoonotic disease monitoring and guide timely interventions. Future studies should validate these findings in mixed-infection contexts and explore their application in human and non-rodent hosts.

Hemp inflorescence meal (HIM) is a byproduct of cannabinoid extraction and offers a sustainable, nutrient-rich alternative for animal feed. However, its application in poultry diets remains limited due to concerns regarding residual cannabinoid transfer to eggs. This study aimed to evaluate the nutritional composition, metabolizable energy, production performance, egg quality, and cannabinoid residue safety of HIM when included in laying hen diets. HIM was analyzed for proximate composition, amino acid profile, and cannabinoid content (cannabidiol [CBD] and tetrahydrocannabinol [THC]) using standard analytical methods and liquid chromatography-diode array detection. Apparent metabolizable energy (AME) was determined through prediction equations and in vivo assays using chromium oxide as a marker. A total of 108 Lohmann Brown laying hens (84 weeks old) were assigned to control and treatment groups (10% HIM inclusion) and fed for 4 weeks. Production parameters and egg quality were measured weekly. Eggs were analyzed for cannabinoid residues at the end of the study. HIM contained 25% crude protein, 11.8% crude fiber, and had a predicted AME of 2,098 kcal/kg, closely matching the in vivo AME of 2,110 kcal/kg. Trace CBD (6.27 mg/kg) was present in HIM, while THC was undetectable; no cannabinoid residues were found in eggs. No significant differences (p > 0.05) were observed in production performance between groups. However, HIM inclusion significantly improved albumen height (7.82 mm vs. 6.76 mm, p = 0.02), Haugh unit (86.73 vs. 80.30, p = 0.03), and reduced yolk-to-albumen ratio (39.02 vs. 40.59, p = 0.04). The inclusion of 10% HIM in laying hen diets is safe, as evidenced by the absence of cannabinoid residues in eggs and stable production performance. HIM enhanced egg white quality, likely due to its high protein content and bioactive compounds. These findings support HIM as a functional, sustainable feed component in poultry nutrition. Future studies should focus on optimal inclusion levels, amino acid supplementation, and long-term impacts on egg quality and bird health.

Negative energy balance (NEB) is a common metabolic disorder in postpartum dairy cows that compromises milk yield, metabolic health, and reproductive function. Sustainable nutritional interventions are essential to mitigate NEB without increasing production costs. This study evaluated the effect of a legume-based green concentrate (GC) containing Gliricidia sepium and Indigofera zollingeriana on performance, hormonal profiles, and beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) levels in Holstein Friesian (HF) cows experiencing NEB. Eighteen postpartum HF cows diagnosed with NEB (BHB > 1.5 mmol/L) were randomly assigned to one of three treatment groups (n = 6): Commercial concentrate (CON), GC with 20% legume inclusion (GC20), and GC with 30% legume inclusion (GC30). All cows received concentrate at 3% body weight (dry matter basis) alongside elephant grass for 60 days postpartum. Parameters evaluated included milk yield, feed intake, feed conversion efficiency (FCE), body condition score, daily profit, milk composition, and concentrations of BHB, insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), estrogen, and prolactin. GC30 significantly improved milk yield (15.88 kg/d), FCE (1.10), and daily profit (United States Dollars 10.99/d), while reducing feed costs and BHB levels in blood (0.91 mmol/L) and milk (0.43 mmol/L) compared to CON (p < 0.05). GC30 also elevated IGF-1 (50.27 ng/mL) and estrogen (104.36 ng/mL), indicating enhanced reproductive readiness. In vitro digestibility and rumen fermentation metrics were also superior in GC-supplemented diets, particularly GC30. No adverse effects were observed on prolactin levels or milk protein and lactose content. Feeding GC, especially GC30, effectively mitigates NEB, enhances productivity, improves hormonal balance, and increases economic returns in postpartum HF cows. This sustainable and cost-effective feeding strategy is suitable for smallholder farmers and supports animal welfare and farm profitability. Future research should explore the effects of long-term GC supplementation and its environmental implications.

Rice straw is a widely available but nutritionally limited roughage for ruminants due to its low protein content and digestibility. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of replacing pangola hay with monosodium glutamate byproduct-treated rice straw (MSGBTRS) in total mixed rations (TMR) on growth performance, nutrient utilization, rumen fermentation, and microbial populations in fattening goats. Sixteen male Anglo-Nubian crossbred goats (3 months old, 15 ± 2 kg) were randomly allocated to four dietary treatments (0%, 25%, 50%, and 75% MSGBTRS replacing pangola hay) in a completely randomized design. MSGBTRS was prepared by blending rice straw with liquid MSGB (8.8:1.2 w/w) and sun-dried. The feeding trial lasted 50 days, followed by a 7-day digestibility study. Feed intake, body weight (BW), rumen fluid, blood, and fecal samples were analyzed. Rumen microbiota was quantified through real-time polymerase chain reaction. The 25% MSGBTRS group achieved the highest BW gain (6.52 kg; p = 0.034). Dry matter intake declined linearly with increased MSGBTRS levels (p = 0.019). Neutral detergent fiber and acid detergent fiber digestibility were significantly reduced at 75% substitution (p = 0.001). Ruminal ammonia nitrogen concentrations increased with MSGBTRS inclusion, peaking at 75% (19.08 mg/dL; p = 0.029), while blood urea nitrogen remained unaffected. The 25% group exhibited optimal propionate and butyrate levels and a favorable acetate-to-propionate ratio. Total bacterial populations were highest in the 50%–75% groups (p = 0.002), with the greatest Ruminococcus albus abundance in the 75% group (p = 0.045). Substituting pangola hay with 25% MSGBTRS in TMR is optimal for improving growth performance and fiber digestibility in goats, without adverse effects on feed intake or rumen fermentation. MSGBTRS presents a sustainable, cost-effective alternative roughage source, supporting zero-waste livestock production. Future studies should explore long-term impacts on carcass traits, health, and economic viability in larger-scale goat systems.

Dairy cows in the transition period are highly vulnerable to oxidative stress and immune suppression, which increases the risk of metabolic and infectious diseases. Vitamin E (VE) and selenium (Se) are essential antioxidants known to mitigate these challenges, but their combined effects remain underexplored in transition cows. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of VE and Se supplementation–individually and in combination–on oxidative stress biomarkers, immune function, disease incidence, reproductive performance, and economic outcomes in transition dairy cows. Forty Holstein cows with similar baseline characteristics were randomly assigned to four groups (n = 10 each): Control (basal diet), VE (3,000 IU/head injected on days 7 and 14 postpartum), Se (1.5 mg/kg body weight orally from calving), and VE + Se (both interventions). Blood samples were collected on calving day and at 7, 14, and 21 days postpartum. Parameters assessed included non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA), β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), blood urea nitrogen, total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), malondialdehyde (MDA), interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, haptoglobin (HP), milk yield, disease incidence, and economic performance. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves assessed VE and Se’s predictive value for disease. Combined VE + Se supplementation significantly increased plasma VE and Se levels and improved antioxidant capacity (↑T-AOC, SOD, GSH-Px; ↓MDA) and immune markers (↓IL-1β, IL-6, HP). NEFA and BHB were reduced without affecting AST. The VE + Se group showed significantly lower incidences of mastitis, metritis, and ketosis (p < 0.05). ROC analysis demonstrated high predictive value of plasma VE and Se for disease risk (area under the curve up to 0.973). Economic analysis showed the highest net profit (¥111.91/day) in the VE + Se group. Combined VE and Se supplementation during the transition period enhances antioxidant and immune function, reduces metabolic disease incidence, and improves productivity and profitability in dairy cows. These findings support integrated micronutrient strategies for periparturient health management. Larger-scale and long-term studies are recommended to confirm these outcomes and explore underlying mechanisms.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) presents a critical global health threat, compromising the efficacy of treatments across human, animal, and environmental health domains. While efforts have predominantly focused on livestock and human medicine, the role of pet owners remains underexplored, despite their direct involvement in antimicrobial administration and influence on veterinary decisions. This study aimed to assess perceptions, knowledge, and practices regarding antimicrobial use and resistance among pet owners in Chile, providing a baseline to inform future education and policy initiatives under a One Health framework. A cross-sectional survey targeting adult dog and cat owners was conducted from May 19 to 21, 2023, in Santiago, Chile, during a large public pet-focused event. Using a validated questionnaire, data were collected on demographics, pet characteristics, knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to antibiotics and AMR. A total of 378 valid responses were analyzed. Descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests were applied to examine associations, particularly between education level and reported practices. Most respondents were female (74.4%) with professional degrees (64%) and aged between 21 and 50 years. Dogs were more commonly owned (73.8%) than cats (26.2%). While 86.2% reported their pet had received antibiotics, only 68.2% recalled veterinarians confirming proper administration understanding. A strong majority agreed that antibiotics should only be used for bacterial infections and opposed acquiring them without a prescription. Notably, 92.4% stated that they would stop treatment early if improvement was observed. Approximately 52% had used human antibiotics for pets, and 38% were open to substituting prescribed veterinary antibiotics with human ones. No significant association was found between education level and antibiotic use behaviors (p > 0.05). Findings reveal important gaps in owner understanding and adherence to antimicrobial guidelines, particularly regarding treatment completion and human antibiotic use in pets. Strengthening veterinarian-owner communication, promoting species-specific antibiotic use, and enhancing awareness of AMR’s broader implications are essential. These insights support targeted educational efforts and integration of pet owner perspectives into national AMR strategies to advance One Health goals.

Heterakis gallinarum is a parasitic nematode that commonly infects the ceca of domestic and wild gallinaceous birds, acting as a vector for Histomonas meleagridis, the causative agent of blackhead disease. Despite its sig­nificance in poultry health, molecular data from Iraq, particularly Sulaymaniyah province, remain limited. This study aimed to characterize the morphological and genetic features of H. gallinarum isolated from free-range chickens in Sulaymaniyah using mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (COX1) gene sequencing. A total of 140 free-range adult chickens were purchased from local markets in Sulaimani city between January 2023 and October 2024. Birds were euthanized, and cecal contents were examined for Heterakis spp. Adult worms were morphologically identified under light microscopy. DNA was extracted from representative isolates, and the COX1 gene was amplified using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequenced. Phylogenetic analysis was conducted using the neighbor-joining method based on the Kimura-3 parameter model. Out of 140 chickens examined, 51 (36.43%) were infected with H. gallinarum. Morphological analysis revealed typ­ical features, including unequal spicules in males and barrel-shaped eggs. PCR confirmed a 1325-bp COX1 gene fragment. Basic Local Alignment Search Tool analysis showed 98%–99% similarity with known H. gallinarum sequences. Phylogenetic reconstruction clustered the Iraqi isolate (GenBank: PQ395216.1) with isolates from China, South Africa, Tunisia, and Bangladesh, indicating low genetic divergence across geographic regions. This is the first molecular documentation of H. gallinarum in free-range chickens from Sulaymaniyah, Iraq. The findings highlight the widespread genetic conservation of this parasite and underscore the need for further epidemiological studies to determine risk factors and potential impacts on poultry productivity.

Gastrointestinal nematodes (GINs) such as Haemonchus contortus and Trichostrongylus colubriformis are major health threats in goats, exacerbated by growing anthelmintic resistance (AR). Despite the widespread use of albendazole and ivermectin in Nakhon Si Thammarat, Southern Thailand, data on AR status in goats remain scarce. This study aimed to evaluate the resistance of GINs to albendazole and ivermectin using fecal egg count reduction (FECR) tests and to determine benzimidazole (BZ) resistance through molecular detection of the F200Y mutation in the β-tubulin iso­type 1 gene. A total of 192 meat goats from six farms were randomly divided into four groups: untreated control, albendazole-treated, ivermectin-treated, and combination-treated. FECR was assessed on day 14 post-treatment. Larval cultures and semi-nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) were used to identify nematode genera. BZ resistance was determined through allele-specific PCR on H. contortus and T. colubriformis third-stage larvae, pre- and post-albendazole treatment. FECR revealed confirmed resistance (FECR < 95%) to albendazole (−35.48%–62.5%), ivermectin (−2.41%–51.47%), and their combination (−25%–48.36%) across all farms. Haemonchus and Trichostrongylus were the predominant genera post-treatment. Molecular analysis showed high pre-treatment frequencies of the F200Y resistance allele in H. contor­tus (75.0%–80.6%) and T. colubriformis (88.6%–100%), which reached 100% post-treatment. Susceptible genotypes were entirely eliminated following albendazole treatment. This is the first comprehensive study confirming widespread AR to albendazole and ivermectin in meat goats in southern Thailand. The fixation of the BZ resistance allele in both nematode species highlights the urgency for revising current deworming practices. Immediate adoption of integrated parasite management strategies, including drug rotation, targeted selective treatment, and exploration of alternative anthelmintics, is critical to mitigate economic losses and protect public health.

Antibiotic resistance (ABR) in food animals poses a significant threat to public health under the One Health framework. In Malaysia, Escherichia coli is a key indicator organism for antimicrobial resistance (AMR) surveillance. However, limited data exist on the resistance profiles of E. coli in goats, particularly in relation to antibiotic usage. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of antibiotic use on the temporal development of ABR in E. coli isolated from goat farms in Selangor. A prospective cohort study was conducted on two goat farms: one with a documented history of antibiotic use (Farm 2) and one without (Farm 1). A total of 60 goats (30/farm) were followed for 3 months, with fecal samples collected monthly. E. coli isolates were identified and subjected to antimicrobial susceptibility testing using the Kirby–Bauer disk diffusion method. Data were analyzed using Chi-square tests, logistic regression, and Cox proportional hazards modeling. A significant association was found between antibiotic use and the presence of ABR E. coli (odds ratio = 5.82; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.12–30.20; p < 0.05). The highest resistance was observed in Farm 2 (96.74%) compared to Farm 1 (57.14%). A hazard ratio of 1.74 (95% CI: 1.03–2.94) indicated increased risk over time. Resistance was detected against critically important human antibiotics, including ciprofloxacin, ampicillin, chloramphenicol, and tetracycline. Notably, resis­tance to meropenem, an antibiotic not approved for veterinary use, was detected in both farms, suggesting possible envi­ronmental or interspecies transmission. This study confirms that antibiotic use in goat farming significantly influences the development of ABR in E. coli. The detection of resistance in farms without antibiotic use underscores the need to investigate other contributing factors, such as environmental residues and horizontal gene transfer. These findings support policy recommendations to restrict antibiotic use in livestock and highlight the urgency for comprehensive AMR surveillance and intervention strategies.

Biofilms formed by foodborne pathogens represent a significant threat to public health by enhanc­ing microbial survival and facilitating antimicrobial resistance (AMR). In Iraq, data on the biofilm-producing potential of key meat-borne pathogens remain scarce, particularly for fastidious organisms such as Campylobacter, Arcobacter, and Salmonella serovars. This study investigated the prevalence and intensity of biofilm formation in selected meat-borne bac­terial isolates and examined their correlation with phenotypic AMR, focusing on moderate to strong biofilm producers. A total of 44 bacterial isolates – including Staphylococcus aureus (methicillin-resistant S. aureus [MRSA]), Arcobacter butzleri, Arcobacter cryaerophilus, Campylobacter jejuni, Campylobacter coli, Salmonella enterica sero­vars Enteritidis, and Salmonella Typhimurium – were recovered from retail meat samples collected between 2018 and 2023 in Wasit, Iraq. Biofilm-forming ability was quantified using microtiter plate assays and interpreted per Stepanovic’s criteria. Antimicrobial susceptibility was assessed through the Kirby–Bauer disk diffusion method, with resistance patterns statisti­cally analyzed for associations with biofilm strength. Among all isolates, 25% were strong and 40.91% moderate biofilm producers. Salmonella serotypes showed the highest biofilm strength (100%), followed by C. jejuni (75%) and MRSA (57.14%). A significant correlation (p ≤ 0.05) was observed between biofilm production and resistance to vancomycin, ofloxacin, gentamicin, enrofloxacin, and cefoxitin. Gram-negative isolates with strong to moderate biofilm capacity exhibited resistance rates ranging from 61.90% to 95.24%, while Gram-positive MRSA showed higher resistance to fluoroquinolones and aminoglycosides. Biofilm production significantly contributes to increase AMR among meat-borne pathogens, compromising food safety and treatment efficacy. Enhanced surveillance, targeted biofilm control strategies, and molecular studies are crucial to mitigate the rising threat of biofilm-associated AMR in the food chain.

Ethical treatment of animals in scientific research is fundamental to ensuring data integrity and public trust. In Indonesia, the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) plays a key role in ethical oversight, yet the extent of researchers’ knowledge regarding its roles and animal welfare (AW) principles remains unclear. This study assessed the level of understanding (UN) of ethical clearance and AW practices among researchers at the Indonesian Centre for Animal Research and Development (ICARD), focusing on variations based on educational background and professional position. A cross-sectional survey involving 107 researchers from ICARD was conducted using a structured digital questionnaire assessing knowledge across three domains: IACUC roles, ethical clearance procedures, and AW imple­mentation. Participants were stratified by educational background (veterinary vs. non-veterinary [NV]) and professional position. Non-parametric tests (Mann–Whitney U and Kruskal–Wallis) were used to evaluate group differences, with post hoc Dunn’s tests where applicable. Veterinary researchers showed significantly greater UN of AW implementation (p < 0.01) and marginally higher knowledge of ethical clearance procedures (p < 0.10) compared to non-veterinarians. While IACUC knowledge was high across both groups, no significant differences were found (p = 0.161). By researcher position, prospective researchers demonstrated the lowest comprehension of AW practices (mean rank = 32.30), while junior researchers and research pro­fessors had the highest levels (mean ranks = 62.06 and 62.31, respectively). Position-based differences in IACUC and ethical clearance UN were not statistically significant, but significant variation was found in AW implementation (p = 0.035). This study reveals critical disparities in the UN of ethical clearance and AW among Indonesian researchers, par­ticularly between veterinary and NV backgrounds and across researcher positions. Targeted ethics training, especially for early-career and NV researchers, is essential. Institutional policies should reinforce mandatory certification and continuous professional development to foster ethical research practices and enhance AW compliance.

The rapid spread of African swine fever (ASF) in Indonesia and other Asian countries has devastated domestic and wild pig populations. In the absence of a viable vaccine, ASF control depends on strict biosecurity measures and the prompt culling of infected animals. Accurate and timely detection is therefore essential to limit disease transmis­sion, highlighting the urgent need for reliable diagnostic tools. This study aimed to develop serological assays for ASF virus (ASFV) antibody detection using recombinant ASFV proteins. Three key ASFV structural proteins–p30, p54, and p72–were heterologously expressed in Escherichia coli. Protein solubility, particularly for p54, was enhanced by targeted deletion of hydrophobic domains. Recombinant proteins were purified using nickel-nitrilotriacetic acid affinity chromatography and assessed for diagnostic performance through enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and immunoblotting using 114 field serum samples. The solubility-optimized p54 antigen was successfully used to develop an indirect ELISA, while the insoluble p30 retained sufficient antigenicity for immunoblot-based detection. The p54-based ELISA showed high diagnostic performance, achieving an area under the curve of 0.936, with 91% sensitivity and 85% specificity. Agreement with a commercial ELISA kit was substantial (Cohen’s kappa = 0.635). Immunoblotting confirmed that all recombinant proteins maintained strong antigenicity and diagnostic specificity. Recombinant ASFV proteins p54 and p30 demonstrated strong potential for serological diagnostics when expressed in E. coli. Notably, this is the first study to report a successful domain truncation strategy for enhancing p54 solu­bility in E. coli, enabling the development of affordable, locally produced ELISA kits. The p30-based immunoblot assay serves as a confirmatory tool to strengthen ASF detection and outbreak response in resource-limited settings.

The skeletal muscle α-actin gene (ACTA1) plays a pivotal role in muscle contraction, structural integrity, and overall develop­ment of skeletal muscle tissue in livestock. This review explores the complex regulatory mechanisms of ACTA1 expression and its direct impact on meat quality, animal performance, and production efficiency. Nutritional inputs, environmental stressors, hormonal signaling, and genetic factors collectively influence ACTA1 activity at the transcriptional, translational, and epigenetic levels. High-protein diets rich in branched-chain amino acids, particularly leucine, stimulate the mechanistic target of rapamycin pathway and enhance ACTA1-mediated muscle growth. Similarly, micronutrients such as zinc and sele­nium function as antioxidants, stabilizing ACTA1 expression under oxidative stress conditions. The review also delves into the role of ACTA1 polymorphisms in modulating muscle fiber type composition, particularly the balance between type I and type II fibers, which significantly affects meat tenderness, fat content, and endurance capacity. Genome-wide association studies, marker-assisted selection (MAS), and clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats-associated pro­tein 9-based genome editing provide promising avenues for optimizing ACTA1 expression in livestock breeding programs. Moreover, ACTA1 dysregulation or mutation is linked to several congenital myopathies, underscoring its diagnostic and therapeutic relevance in veterinary pathology. Biotechnological interventions targeting ACTA1 expression present immense potential for improving muscle mass, carcass traits, and feed efficiency, thereby supporting global food security. Future strategies combining nutrigenomics, precision livestock farming, and artificial intelligence could enable tailored breeding and management approaches for sustainable meat production. Ethical and environmental considerations will be critical as gene editing technologies move toward wider application. In summary, ACTA1 represents a cornerstone of muscle physiol­ogy in livestock, and its integrative regulation across nutrition, genetics, and environment offers vast potential for advancing meat science, animal health, and agricultural productivity.

Feed constitutes 60%–70% of total poultry production costs, and optimizing feed processing is criti­cal for improving efficiency. This study evaluated the effect of varying hammer mill speeds (HMSs) during corn grinding on growth performance, pellet quality, gizzard morphology, and expression of growth-related genes (growth hormone [GH], GH receptor [GHR], insulin-like growth factors 1 and 2 [IGF1, IGF2]) in broiler chickens. A total of 1,500 one-day-old Ross 308 broiler chicks were randomly divided into three groups: HMS100 (control, 100% HMS), HMS75 (75% HMS), and HMS50 (50% HMS), each with five replicates of 100 birds. Birds were fed isocaloric, isonitrogenous pelleted diets for 28 days. Performance metrics, pellet durability and hardness, gizzard morphology, and intestinal length were assessed. Gene expression analysis in gizzard tissue was conducted using quantita­tive reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction for GH, GHR, IGF1, and IGF2. Broilers in the HMS75 and HMS50 groups exhibited significantly lower feed intake (by 4.03% and 3.99%) and higher body weight (BW) (by 5.29% and 3.53%) compared to HMS100 (p < 0.05). HMS75 significantly improved feed conversion ratio by 6.81% and BW gain by 5.04% (p < 0.05). Pellet durability and hardness were enhanced in both HMS75 and HMS50 groups (p < 0.05). Gizzard width and muscle thickness were significantly increased at reduced mill speeds, especially in HMS50. Intestinal length was longest in HMS75 (1.96 m). Gene expression analysis revealed a 113% increase in GH expres­sion in HMS75 and a 303% upregulation of IGF2 in HMS50 compared to HMS100 (p < 0.05). Reducing HMS to 75% optimized broiler growth performance, pellet quality, and intestinal development, while 50% speed promoted IGF2-mediated gizzard hypertrophy. Hammer mill modulation provides a practical strategy to balance feed efficiency and targeted tissue growth in broilers.

Suture ligation is the standard technique for feline orchiectomy, but it requires surgical expertise and is time-consuming. Silicone rubber bands (SRBs), previously used in human procedures, offer a potential alternative. This study aimed to (1) evaluate the effects of common veterinary sterilization methods on the mechanical integrity of SRBs and (2) compare the surgical outcomes of SRB versus suture ligation in feline orchiectomy. Twenty-eight SRBs were randomly assigned to four sterilization groups: No sterilization (control), 2% chlorhexidine gluconate, autoclaving, and hydrogen peroxide gas plasma. Bands were tested for ultimate ten­sile strength (UTS), elongation at break, and elastic modulus using a universal testing machine. Separately, 20 healthy male cats were randomly assigned to undergo orchiectomy using either SRB ligation (n = 10) or traditional suture ligation (n = 10). Surgical time, intraoperative/post-operative complications, Glasgow composite measure pain scale scores, wound healing, and gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms were monitored for 10 days. Hydrogen peroxide gas plasma sterilization preserved SRB elasticity without significantly affecting UTS, while auto­claving and chlorhexidine treatment increased stiffness and reduced elongation at break (p < 0.05). SRB ligation significantly reduced surgical time (3.06 ± 0.32 min) compared to suture ligation (4.48 ± 0.62 min; p < 0.01). There were no significant differences in post-operative pain scores, wound healing characteristics, or complication rates between groups (p > 0.05). Mild GI symptoms were observed in both groups but were not statistically different. SRB ligation is a viable, time-efficient, and clinically comparable alternative to traditional suture ligation in feline orchiectomy. Hydrogen peroxide gas plasma is recommended for SRB sterilization due to its minimal impact on material integrity. This technique may be especially beneficial in high-volume or resource-limited settings, offering a safe, efficient approach to feline population control. Future research should evaluate the long-term biocompatibility and broader surgical applications of SRBs in veterinary practice.