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Background: Papilloma DNA viruses are one of the viruses that cause skin lesions in ruminants. Objectives: The clinical, histopathological and molecular characteristics of cutaneous papilloma in ruminants in Iran are to be investigated in this study. Methods: Samples were collected from 19 small ruminants (5 sheep and 14 goats) with various papillomatosis lesions. The samples taken were studied with histopathological and molecular techniques. Results: In clinical terms, the lesions appeared in different sizes, ranging from 0.5 to 11 cm, and the cauliflower exophytic masses appeared in other parts of the animal's body. In the limbs, most papilloma lesions have been seen (42.1%). In histopathological examination, perinuclear vacuolation epidermal granule layer with various degrees of hypergranulosis, hyperkeratosis, acanthosis, orthokeratosis and parakeratosis were seen. Moreover, all the suspected samples were positive for papillomavirus using the polymerase chain reaction technique. Conclusions: Although the prevalence of papillomaviruses in Iranian sheep and goats is low, it seems necessary to distinguish them from other viral skin diseases, such as cutaneous contagious ecthyma, using molecular techniques and histopathology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Linognathus stenopsis lice are an extensive parasitic concern in goat populations worldwide, posing significant economic and health risks. This study examined the identification of alleles of resistance to pyrethroid and mutations in L. stenopsis samples obtained from goats in five provinces in western and northwestern Iran. Methods: Morphological and molecular techniques were employed to identify the louse species. Molecular identification methods and gene sequencing were used to identify resistance-associated mutations in the voltage-gated sodium channel (VGSC) gene. Results and discussion: The results revealed that six amino acid substitutions, including threonine-to-isoleucine (T917I), leucine-to-phenylalanine (L920F), isoleucine-to-phenylalanine (I927F), phenylalanine-to-alanine (F928A), valineto- arginine (V929R), and arginine-to-leucine (R930L) mutations, were present in the VGSC gene of L. stenopsis lice from various regions of Iran. These findings suggest the potential for pyrethroid resistance development in this louse species, highlighting the importance of integrated pest management (IPM) strategies. Such strategies, which combine selective insecticides, regular grooming, and environmental sanitation, are crucial for effectively managing L. stenopsis infestations and preserving the efficacy of pyrethroids for pest control. Moreover, the emergence of novel kdr mutations underscores the need for ongoing research into the molecular mechanisms underlying these mutations. This research is vital for developing strategies to combat pyrethroid resistance and maintaining the efficacy of insecticides in controlling lice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This survey sought to molecularly detect Coxiella burnetii in Argasidae and Ixodidae ticks attached to small ruminants in the region of West Azerbaijan (Northwest of Iran) and blood samples collected from the same animals. 451 tick samples and 927 blood samples were obtained from sheep (n = 536) and goats (n = 391) and tested by nested PCR for detection of C. burnetii insertion sequence IS1111 or icd gene sequence. The collected ticks were morphologically classified as Rhipicephalus sanguineus, Rhipicephalus turanicus, Hyalomma asiaticum, Hyalomma anatolicum, or Argas reflexus. 14% of ticks (65 in total 43 for IS1111 and 22 for icd gene) tested positive for C. burnetii, none of which were from the Argas genus. Among the 927 blood samples, 218 (23.5%) tested positive for C. burnetii. The positive result from analysis targeting the genes IS1111 and icd were 131 and 87 respectively. As Q fever is a tickborne zoonosis and endemic to Iran, such information is critical for creating effective, coordinated, and strategic tick and pathogen control programs to prevent disease outbreak in domestic animals and humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genetic diversity of Brucella strains has not been fully understood. To investigate this, the genetic characteristics of 64 isolates of Brucella melitensis from sheep and goats' milk were studied using random fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) and multiple locus variable-number tandem repeat analysis (MLVA-16) methods developed in Orsay, France (MLVA-16Orsay). The RFLP analysis revealed that all 64 isolates were of biovar one. The MLVA-typing showed that one sample was simultaneously infected with two strains of B. melitensis and the genotype of 65 isolate was analyzed. Four genotypes (47, 42, 43, and 63) were identified using MLVA-8 (panel 1), whereas six genotypes (138, 125, 116,108, and two unknown genotypes) were identified using MLVA11 (panels 1 and 2A). From the review of MLVA-16 (panels 1, 2A, and 2B), panel 2B showed a very high discriminatory power. Two loci of Bruc04 and Bruc30 from this panel had diversity index values higher than 0.71 and the average diversity index was 0.619. So MLVA-16Orsay 34 showed the genotype indicating a low genetic homogeneity among the isolates. The findings of MLVA genotyping of the isolates suggest that strains of B. melitensis isolated from the milk of small ruminants in Iran are most closely related to the isolates from neighboring countries of the Eastern Mediterranean group. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to indicate the potential use of MLVA genotyping for simultaneous detection of specimen contamination using two different B. melitensis biovars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Cysticercosis is a worldwide disease that affects farm animals and, in some cases, like bovine and porcine cysticercosis, is considered zoonosis. This condition, in sheep and goats, results in economic losses especially due to the condemnation of edible offals or meat. In this concern, the aim of this study was to examine cysticercosis and factors influencing the frequency and weight of relevant meat or red offals condemnation among the sheep and goats slaughtered at a slaughterhouse in Iran. Methods: A one-year retrospective cross-sectional epidemiological study was carried out to examine the presence of cysticercosis at postmortem inspection. Data regarding the date of slaughter, animal species, sex, and the type of cysticercosis infection (Cysticercus ovis or Cysticercus tenuicollis) were recorded. Results: A total of 17530 carcasses were contaminated with different types of cysticercosis, and among them, 9072 offals were rejected and 291 cases were totally condemned. During winter the number of contaminated samples was higher compared to the other seasons. Goats were only infected with C. ovis and none of them were totally condemned. The mean proportion of condemned tissues in each contaminated sample was higher in sheep (0.5 kg/case). The damaging effects of cysticercosis in male carcasses were greater than in females, and C. ovis infection resulted in higher weight and rate of offal and carcass condemnation. Conclusion: In conclusion, it seems that a comprehensive antihelminth strategy must be followed by the relevant food animal producers to decrease the economic losses and zoonoses problems caused by cysticercosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pyrethroid insecticides target voltage-gated sodium channels (VGSCs) that are essential for electrical signaling in the nervous system of insects. Three-point mutations at the corresponding amino acid sequence positions M815I, T917I, and L920F located in domain II conferring the knockdown resistance (kdr) are the most important mutations in pyrethroid-resistant lice worldwide. In addition, six new mutations have been reported in the extracellular loops IIS1-2 (H813P) and IIS5 (I927F, L928A, R929V, L930M, L932M) in the a-subunit of the sodium channel in lice. The aim of this study was to detect alleles resistant to pyrethroids in the domain II (S5-S6) of the VGSC gene in goat biting louse. Goat biting lice were collected from five provinces in the west and northwest of Iran. Genomic DNA was extracted from goat biting lice and Bovicola (Damalinia) caprae species was confirmed by amplifying the cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COXI) gene. A fragment in the domain II (S5-S6) of the VGSC gene was amplified using the specific primers and the resultant polymerase chain reaction products were sequenced. Substitutions T917I, L920F, I927F, L928A, R929V and L930M were identified in the examined sequences. The results showed that all the examined lice had at least one mutation in their VGSC gene associated with pyrethroid resistance or new mutations. The presence of these mutated alleles in the VGSC gene may be due to the long-term and multiple use of pyrethroids against arthropods. Thus, the molecular detection of resistance to pyrethroid insecticides in goat chewing lice can help plot a kdr frequency map to enact effective policies to control caprine pediculosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Infectious and non-infectious abortions are necessary to be evaluated in Saanen and Alpine breeds as they have been recently imported to Iran whith out enough information about their susceptibility to diseases in the country situation. The present study aimed to investigate the causes of abortion in Saanen and Alpine to compare their susceptibility to each identified abortion factor. Methods: A total of 600 Saanen and 600 Alpine breeds were studied. Abomasal contents of foeti and serum samples from aborted does were analyzed by PCR and conventional culture methods and beta-hydroxy butyrate was measured in the serum of aborted animals. Results: Among 1200 pregnant goats, 59 Saanens and 80 Alpines aborted their fetus. Escherichia coli was isolated from 4 Saanens and 3 Alpines. Trueperella pyogenes was isolated from 5 Saanens and 7 Alpines. Pregnancy toxemia was the cause of abortion in 12 Saanens and 30 Alpines which showed a significant difference between the two breeds. Six Saanens and 10 Alpines aborted their fetus following trauma. Conclusion: As abortion is an economically important issue, especially for the breeds which we have less information about, the susceptibility of animals and the frequency of each abortifacient should be evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Toxoplasmosis is a parasitic disease caused by compilation protozoan agent Toxoplasma gondii, leading to significant financial and quality-adjusted life-year losses. Overcooked or raw meat consumption has been a considerable transmission route. The present study was conducted to determine the seropositivity rate of T. gondii in sheep and goats by serological and molecular tests and genotyping of obtained isolates in northeast Iran. Methods: Blood and tissue samples (diaphragm, heart) of 296 animals (including 168 sheep and 128 goats) were collected from the slaughterhouse in Quchan Country from august 2016 to April 2017. Modified agglutination test (MAT) and the PCR method performed to detect parasite DNA on tissues.PCR-RFLP method of GRA6 gene was used to determine the genotype of T. gondii. In addition, sequencing analysis was performed to evaluate the Toxoplasma type strains. Results: Serum positive for MAT results were found in 27.4% of sheep and 23.4% of goats. Positive PCR of B1 gene results in diaphragm and heart tissues of sheep and goats was 47.8% and 26.1%, 40% and 23.3%, respectively. PCR of GRA6 gene results were positive in 10 samples that RFLP technique results using MseI enzyme revealed genotype I. Sequencing and phylogenetic analysis revealed DNA of all samples was closely related to Toxoplasma type I. Conclusion: Concerning the high seropositivity rate of toxoplasmosis, undertaking an appropriate preventive program for reducing the prevalence of T. gondii infection by raw or undercooked meat consumption of livestock is recommended. Our study supports the notion that these animals' consumption of raw and undercooked meat can be a probable source of human toxoplasmosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Parasitosis of the digestive tract by worms and protozoa in livestock is a veterinary health and economic concern as parasitic infections can cause deterioration of animal welfare and reduced productivity associated with delayed growth rate, weight loss, and reduced milk production. Some parasites of the digestive tract have zoonotic potential, so farm animals can act as source of human infections. This study investigated the prevalence of intestinal parasites in cattle, camels, donkeys, horse, sheep, goats, and dogs from Iranshahr County in Southeastern Iran. Our findings indicate that most animals studied were infected with at least one species of intestinal parasite. Parasitological monitoring, including testing during the rearing of free-range animals, is needed in livestock to detect carriers and shedders of parasite eggs, cysts, and oocysts. It is also recommended that villagers prevent stray dogs from entering agricultural fields and ensure the proper housing and management of animal's facilities, with special attention to their hygienic conditions. Furthermore, accurate diagnosis of parasitic infections, as well as effective monitoring and prophylaxis, are essential to keep livestock free of parasitic infections. Gastrointestinal parasites (GIP) are a major cause of disease and production loss in livestock. Some have zoonotic potential, so production animals can be a source of human infections. We describe the prevalence of GIP in domestic mammals in Southeastern Iran. Fresh fecal samples (n = 200) collected from cattle (n = 88), sheep (n = 50), goats (n = 23), camels (n = 30), donkeys (n = 5), horse (n = 1), and dogs (n = 3) were subjected to conventional coprological examination for the detection of protozoan (oo)cysts and helminth ova. Overall, 83% (166/200) of the samples were positive for one or more GIP. Helminths were found in dogs, donkeys, sheep (42%), camels (37%), goats (30%), and cattle (19%), but not in the horse. Protozoa were found in cattle (82%), goats (78%), sheep (60%), and camels (13%), but not in donkeys, dogs, or the horse. Lambs were 3.5 times more likely to be infected by protozoa than sheep (OR = 3.5, 95% CI: 1.05–11.66), whereas sheep were at higher odds of being infected by helminths than lambs (OR = 4.09, 95% CI: 1.06–16.59). This is the first study assessing the prevalence of GIP in domestic mammals in Southeastern Iran. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mycoplasma capricolum subspecies capripneumoniae (Mccp) is the etiological agent of caprine contagious pleuropneumonia (CCPP) disease. The CCPP is one of the most severe diseases of goats. A herd of 2,000 goats located in the countryside of Tehran city, Iran, was examined for the study in August 2021. In history taking, observation, inspection and clinical examination, high case fatality rate (46.00%) due to respiratory distress and high morbidity of pleuropneumonia (15.00%) syndrome were recorded. Accordingly, ten carcasses of goats were dissected. The epidemiological pattern of the disease, clinical examination findings and the signs of necropsy of dead patients were suspected to CCPP. Four lung samples of necropsied goats were sent to the laboratory for PCR test and in all of them, Mccp was detected and CCPP was also confirmed. The disease was controlled by two measures: (a) the whole herd was first treated with antibiotics (florfenicol and tylosin) and (b) then the Pulmovac-In vaccine was then administered. This study is the first documented report of CCPP occurrence caused by Mccp in Iran and shows the importance of availability of effective vaccines to control and prevention of CCPP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Identification of selection signatures may provide a better understanding of domestication process and candidate genes contributing to this process. In this study, two populations of domestic and wild goats from Iran were analyzed to identify selection signatures. RSB, iHS, and XP‐EHH statistics were used in order to identify robust selection signatures in the goat genome. Genotype data of domestic and wild goats from the NextGen project was used. The data was related to 18 Capra aegagrus (wild goat) and 20 Capra hircus (domestic goat) from Iran. The iHS method indicated 675 and 441 selection signatures in C. aegagrus and C. hircus, respectively. RSB and XP‐EHH methods showed about 370 and 447 selection signatures in C. aegagrus and C. hircus, respectively. These selection signatures were mainly associated with milk production, fleece trait, mammary epithelial cells, reproduction, and immune system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Q fever is one of the most important zoonotic diseases caused by Coxiella burnetii. Although Q fever is an endemic disease in Iran, epidemiological data on C. burnetii infection are not yet complete in reservoirs and vectors in some parts of Iran. This survey investigated C. burnetii infection in small ruminants (sheep and goat blood samples) and their ticks in western Iran (Kurdistan province) in 2020. The presence of C. burnetii DNA was identified in these samples by targeting the IS1111 gene using the quantitative PCR (qPCR) method. Results: Out of 250 blood samples (232 sheep and 18 goats), C. burnetii was detected in two samples (0.8%) belonging to the sheep (0.9%). In addition, 34 of 244 collected ticks (13.9%) from infested animals (244) were positive for C. burnetii infection. The highest prevalence of infection was found in Dermacentor marginatus (18.3%) and Haemaphysalis concinna (12.5%). Conclusions: The present study showed that ticks could have a possible role in the epidemiology of Q fever in Iran. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abortion imposes a substantial economic burden on the global small ruminant industry, not only reducing herd productivity but also contributing to the spread of zoonotic diseases. This study examines the primary factors associated with abortion, both infectious and non-infectious, in 623 goat herds across Iran. A comprehensive evaluation was performed, incorporating herd history, laboratory results, and statistical analyses using univariate tests and multivariable binary logistic regression. Key findings revealed significant associations with abortion, including previous abortion history, gestational age of the aborted foetus, routine veterinary visits, mineral supplementation, and vaccination practices. Non-infectious factors, such as pregnancy toxemia, goiter, and deficiencies in vitamin E/selenium, were identified in herds with a low abortion prevalence (<10 %). Among the 623 herds studied, 277 (44.5 %) exhibited an abortion prevalence below 2 %, considered within normal limits, while the remaining 346 herds (55.5 %) experienced pathological abortion rates exceeding 2 %. The definitive cause of abortion was determined in 227 of the 346 abortion outbreaks analysed, accounting for 65.6 % of the cases. Infectious agents were identified in 40.7 % of the herds with abortion rates exceeding 2 %, with Brucella melitensis (9.5 %), Chlamydia abortus (7.8 %), and Coxiella burnetii (5.2 %) being the most prevalent pathogens. Multivariable binary logistic regression analysis revealed significant associations between abortion and several factors, including birth (OR=2.01, 95 % CI: 1.05-3.89, P=0.036), previous abortion history (OR=14.5, 95 % CI: 6.01-37.3, P<0.001), gestational age of the aborted foetus (OR=3.07, 95 % CI: 1.63-5.89, P<0.001), routine veterinary visits (OR=0.16, 95 % CI: 0.09-0.27, P<0.001), vaccination (OR=0.25, 95 % CI: 0.11-0.53, P<0.001), and mineral supplementation (OR=0.36, 95 % CI: 0.21-0.62, P<0.001). These findings underscore the diverse causes of abortion in Iranian goat herds, emphasizing the need to improve farmer awareness and access to commercial vaccines targeting infectious abortion agents to enhance herd productivity., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Purpose: Toxoplasma gondii is transmitted congenitally or acquired by consumption of food and water contaminated with cysts or oocysts. This study aimed at genotyping T. gondii strains from slaughtered goats in Jahrom. Methods: A total of 561 specimens (heart, diaphragm, and tongue) from 187 slaughtered goats were collected from Jahrom slaughterhouse. After DNA extraction, the T. gondii strains were genotyped by the nested PCR–RFLP based on GRA6 and 3ʹ, and 5ʹ ends of the SAG2 gene. Results: T. gondii infection was present in 18.2% of cases. Among the examined organs, the diaphragm was more disposed to the infection (10.2%). Furthermore, infection rates of the heart and tongue were 8.6% and 3.7%, respectively. Concurrent infection in the heart and diaphragm, tongue and diaphragm, and heart and tongue were 3.2%, 0.5%, and 0.5%, respectively. In genotyping experiments, genotype I was the most frequent genotype of T. gondii (58.8%), followed by type II (23.5%), type III (11.8%), and a combination of type I and II (5.9%). Conclusions: The results of this study showed the presence of different genotypes of T. gondii in goats including three major and mixed genotypes. These results can be useful in toxoplasmosis control and prevention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Widely regarded as one of the chief causes of diseases in cattle population, bovine herpesvirus-1 (BoHV-1) has the potential to infect sheep and goat, making them potential reservoirs or hosts for this virus. Thus, preventive measures against BoHV-1 in cattle should not overlook the ability of this virus to infect other animals., Aims: Therefore, the focal point of this study was to ascertain the seroprevalence of BoHV-1 in 300 healthy goats, the relationship between host and the environmental determinants of infection, and the contributing role of goats in the epidemiology of the BoHV-1., Materials & Methods: In order to pinpoint the existing antibodies to BoHV-1, the obtained sera were analyzed by Virus Neutralization test., Results: According to this test, the seroprevalence of BoHV-1 appeared to be 64.33% in southwestern Iran. What logistic regression disclosed was that the odds ratio between age and infection with BoHV-1 was 0.83 (p = 0.01), representing a decrease of 17% as goats grew one year older. In addition, females manifested a higher relative frequency of infection compared to males, with the odds of infection in female goats being registered at 1.88, compared to those in males (p = 0.2). Moreover, contrasted with goats lacking any history of abortion, those with a history of abortion featured 1.1 as the odds ratio (p = 0.87). The seroprevalence in Hendijan, Ahvaz, Shushtar and Dasht e Azadegan was detected to stand at 73.24, 71.30, 55.56 and 47.06 percent, respectively, with 6% of fluctuation in the infection rates being attributed to various geographical locations under the scrutiny of this study (p = 0.003)., Discussion and Conclusion: Having attested the marked seroprevalence of BoHV-1, the definitive role of goats in the epidemiology of this virus as a secondary host or reservoir was confirmed by the present study, necessitating the strict monitoring of BoHV-1 in goats by animal health authorities in areas where BoHV-1 abounds in cattle., (© 2024 The Author(s). Veterinary Medicine and Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

This study deals with cryopreservation of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) of native goat using different media along with cryoprotectant. Morphological differentiation and immunocytochemistry tests were used to identify the cells. Furthermore anti-vimentin and anti-Oct-4 immuno staining methods were used for identification of sertoli cells and SSCs, respectively. Cryopreservation of SSCs was done with two sets of media. One with 40% dulbecco's modified eagle's medium (DMEM), 50% fetal bovine serum (FBS) and 10% dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). The second medium included 90% FBS and 10% DMSO. Post thaw cryopreserved cells were subjected to viability and colony area formation on 4th, 8th and 12th days of culturing after and before cryopreservation. Results clearly indicated the viability, area and number of colonies in the first medium registered to 61.37%, 0.87 mm² and 246.88 averagely in every 25 cm² culture flask, respectively. Similarly with second medium, post thaw cryopreserved sperm registered viability, area and number of colonies to 73.87%, 2.74 mm² and 364.36 in every 25 cm2 culture flask, respectively. After the thawing of spermatogonial cells, the best viability percentage was obtained in the freezing medium containing 90% FBS. Thus the study demonstrated that serum concentration had a distinct positive effect on the maintenance and proliferation of SSCs in culture after cryopreservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Foodborne transmission of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) poses a threat to public health. The Clermont typing schemes (previous and revised) have been used widely to phylotype E. coli. The present study was conducted to compare the relationship of the Clermont phylogenetic schemes in STEC strains isolated from goats and antibiotic resistance patterns in the southeast of Iran. Overall 52 strains carrying the stx gene were used for subsequent analysis. All strains were determined by analysing the genomic DNA with a PCR-based method using the two Clermont et al. (2000, 2013) schemes. Extended spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) producing strains were confirmed by the double disk-diffusion method. STEC strains were also tested for susceptibility to 20 antimicrobials agents. In the original Clermont method, the prevalent phylogroups were B1 (69.2%) and A (28.8%). The significant phylogenetic groups of strains according to the revised Clermont method were B1 (82.7%), A (13.5%) and unknown (3.8%). However, STEC strains underwent changes as noted from A to B1 (17.3%), B1 to unknown (3.8%), B1 to A (1.9%) and D to B1 (1.9%) groupings. Of the 52 stx-positive strains, two ESBL producing strains were detected. Susceptibility data showed that the most frequent resistance phenotype was related to cefazolin (90.4%), streptomycin (88.5%), ampicillin (86.5%) and oxytetracycline (82.7%) respectively. Although the overall frequency of the reassigned phylotypes was not significant, most changes occurred within the A phylotype. Therefore, implementation of the new method on isolates belonging to the A phylotype in the old method seems to be necessary to obtain accurate results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Archives of Razi Institute is the property of Institut Razi and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Archives of Razi Institute is the property of Institut Razi and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Chlamydia abortus is a Gram-negative intracellular bacteria responsible for major economic losses due mainly to infection and subsequent induction of abortion in several animal species and poses considerable public health problems in humans. This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of antibody against C. abortus in sheep and goat population of Khorasan Razavi province located in northeastern Iran. Four hundred fifty-two (271 sheep and 181 goats) sera samples from 40 sheep/goat epidemiologic units located in 11 counties were selected. Sera were assayed for antibodies against C. abortus using ELISA assay. Out of 452 sheep and goat sera, 44 [9.70% (95.00%CI: 7.10%-12.40%)] were positive for C. abortus antibodies. 28 out of 40 epidemiologic units (70.00%) and 10 out of 11 counties (91.00%), at least one seropositive sample was found. There was no significant difference between the seropositivity of sheep and goats. Age, sex, and location did not show significant relationship with the test results. The results showed that C. abortus was circulating in wide parts of Khorasan Razavi province. Considering the economic and public health importance of C. abortus, measures should be taken to help prevent its spread and to reduce the zoonotic risk of C. abortus in the studied region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Archives of Razi Institute is the property of Institut Razi and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Taenia ovis larvae can result in economic losses in small ruminants due to condemnation of infected tissues or whole carcasses. From 2017 to 2018, the T. ovis prevalence in 16,180 sheep and 7560 goats at the Najafabad slaughterhouse in Isfahan was determined. More sheep (477; 2.9%) than goats (90; 1.2%) were found to be infected, and the prevalence was higher in animals <1 y (p < 0.0001), and higher in spring in sheep (8.2%) and goats (2.2%). Female sheep were more frequently infected than males (p < 0.0001); this did not hold true for goats. Of the tissues examined, T. ovis was found more often in the heart muscle of sheep compared with other tissues; however, infections in the heart muscle, masseter muscle, diaphragm, and triceps were similar in goats. Granulomas and caseous necrosis in the heart muscles were associated with the accumulation of mononuclear inflammatory cells and the formation of fibrous tissue around the parasite. Based solely on infected tissues found in this study, the economic loss caused by the presence of T. ovis larvae was estimated to be 4167 United States dollars (USD). Control methods, such as proper disposal of infected tissues and anthelmintic treatment of infected dogs, are necessary to decrease infection and prevent economic loss in small ruminants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chlamydia abortus, is one of the most important causes of abortion in small ruminants. Evaluating the frequency of chlamydial infection in abortion of animals is beneficial in epidemiological surveys. The purpose of the present study is to determine the frequency of abortion caused by Chlamydia abortus using PCR method. Methods: A total of 200 fetuses were collected from 150 ewes and 50 does. The samples were collected from abomasal contents and lungs of the fetuses and using PMP gene of Chlamydia abortus, PCR was conducted. The infection occurrence with regard to the species of animals, age, gender and type of pregnancy along with age, numbers of pregnancy and numbers of abortion in the aborted animals were statistically analyzed by Chi-squared test, t-test and Spearman correlation coefficient which all were calculated using SPSS version 25. Results: The bacterium DNA was detected in 47 fetuses. The infection occurrence didn’t have significant statistical relationships with the species, age and gender of the fetuses. Chlamydial infection in the twin fetuses was significantly more than the single ones. The infection had statistical relationship with ages and parturition numbers of the aborted animals but not with the numbers of abortion. Conclusion: Regarding the high frequency of abortion caused by Chlamydia abortus in this study (23.5%), it is necessary to boost the information about the prevalence of Chlamydia abortus in different regions of our country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study was carried out to identify Theileria spp. infections in goats and ticksin Kermanshah Province, western Iran from May-Sep 2015. Methods: For differentiation of different Theileria spp. both blood and tick samples were examined by nested PCRRFLP. Results: Light microscopy of blood smears revealed Theileria spp. infection in 22 (5.5%), while 68 (17%) of blood samples were positive using nested PCR. Out of 68 positive samples, 85.3% (58/68) and 11.7% (8/68) were respectively positive for Theileria ovis and T. lestoquardi. Mixed infection was detected in 3% (2/68) cases. Overall, 420 ixodid ticks belong to seven different hard ticks species were collected from goats. Rhipicephalus turanicus 112 (26.7%), R. sanguineus 95 (22.6%), R. bursa, 91(21.7%), Hyalomma anatolicum, 55(13.1%), H. excavatum 27(6.4%), H. marginatum, 22(5.3%) and Dermacentor marginatus, 18(4.2%) were the main tick species infesting goats. The PCR products obtained from ticks were subjected to the differentiation of Theileria species. Respectively, 2 and 8 pools of H. marginatum and R. turanicus salivary glands were infected with T. ovis and T. lestoquardi. In addition, T. annulata and T. lestoquardi infection weredetected in three pools of H. anatolicum. Conclusion: This is the first report of goats and collected ticks to Theileria spp infection in Iran. The results suggest that T. ovis has a higher prevalence than T. lestoquardi. It is also postulated H. marginatum, R. turanicus and H. anatolicum might play an important role in the field as a vector of Theileria spp in this area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Growth efficiency-related traits are of economic importance for genetically improving of small ruminants especially in tropics with pastures of low quality and quantity. Data on body weights of Raeini Cashmere goat collected from 1979 to 2012 in Raeini breeding station, Kerman province, south-eastern part of Iran were used for estimating the genetic parameters of average daily gain from birth to weaning (ADG1), average daily gain from weaning to six months of age (ADG2), average daily gain from birth to six months of age (ADG3), Kleiber ratio from birth to weaning (KR1), Kleiber ratio from weaning to six months of age (KR2), Kleiber ratio from birth to six months of age (KR3), growth efficiency from birth to weaning (GE1), growth efficiency from weaning to six months of age (GE2) and growth efficiency from birth to six months of age (GE3). The numbers of final edited records were related to 2817, 2541 and 2701 kids for the traits considered from birth to weaning, from weaning to six months of age and from birth to six months of ages periods, respectively. Direct heritability estimates for ADG1, ADG2, ADG3, KR1, KR2, KR3, GE1, GE2 and GE3 were 0.08, 0.03, 0.06, 0.19, 0.03, 0.07, 0.07, 0.09 and 0.08, respectively. Maternal heritability estimates for ADG1, KR1 and GE1 were 0.09, 0.11 and 0.10, respectively. Genetic correlations between traits were ranged from -0.95 for ADG3-KR1 to 0.99 for ADG1-KR1, ADG2-KR2, ADG3-KR3 and KR1- GE1. Phenotypic correlations were positive and high for traits measured in the same period i.e. among ADG1, KR1 and GE1, among ADG2, KR2 and GE2 and among ADG3, KR3 and GE3; ranged from 0.77 for ADG2-GE2 to 0.96 for ADG3-KR3. The obtained results revealed little additive genetic variation in growth rate or efficiency related traits of Raeini Cashmere goat, implying little opportunity for genetic improvement of these traits in this breed through selection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we analyzed 50,238 records of the body weight of the Murciano-Granadina goat breed from birth to 360 days of age. The data were collected from a private dairy farm located in Ghale-Ganj city, which is in the southern part of Kerman province, in the south of Iran. The records were collected between 2016 and 2022. Our goal was to evaluate the suitability of non-linear models for characterizing growth curves from birth to 360 days of age and to estimate genetic parameters for these growth curve traits. Five non-linear mathematical models namely Brody, Negative exponential, von Bertalanffy, Logistic, and Gompertz were compared by using Akaike's information criterion (AIC), root mean square error (RMSE), and Durbin-Watson statistic (DW) to determine the most suitable function for characterizing the growth curve. Among the investigated models, the von Bertalanffy model exhibited the lowest values for both AIC and RMSE. Additionally, we observed positive autocorrelations among residuals for all of the investigated non-linear models, with the lowest value being observed for the von Bertalanffy model. As a result, we selected the von Bertalanffy as the most suitable model for characterizing the growth curve of the Murciano-Granadina goat breed. To estimate genetic parameters for the growth curve traits, including parameters A (estimated mature weight), B (an integration constant related to initial animal weight), K (maturation rate), inflection age (IA), and inflection weight (IW), we utilized a Bayesian multivariate animal model that accounted only for direct additive genetic effects. The posterior means for heritabilities of A, B, K, IA, and IW were significant values of 0.11, 0.13, 0.03, 0.11, and 0.17, respectively. Parameter A had significant and positive genetic and phenotypic correlations with parameters B, IA, and IW. The posterior means for genetic and phenotypic correlations between parameters A and K were negative estimates of − 0.58 and − 0.17, respectively, implying that the kids with slower maturation rates had higher mature weights. Positive and medium estimates were obtained for posterior means of phenotypic (0.04) and genetic (0.29) correlations between parameters B and K. Both posterior means for phenotypic and genetic correlations of B with IA were 0.32 while those of B with IW were 0.51 and 0.50, respectively. We found high and positive genetic (0.51) and phenotypic (0.50) correlations between IA and IW. However, we observed low levels of additive genetic variation for all of the studied growth curve traits. In conclusion, our analysis suggests that the growth curve traits of the Murciano-Granadina goat breed are highly influenced by non-additive genetic and environmental effects. Therefore, it is essential to consider these effects when designing strategies to improve these traits and develop an appropriate breeding scheme that can achieve the desired shape of the growth curve. • Five non-linear mathematical functions namely Brody, Negative exponential, von Bertalanffy, Logistic, and Gompertz were compared. • For determining the best function describing the growth curve in the Murciano-Granadina goat breed. • Among the investigated function the von Bertalanffy exhibited the best performance for describing growth curve in the Murciano-Granadina goat breed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To determine the prevalence of Anaplasma marginale ( A. marginale ) and Anaplasma ovis from sheep and goat in different highland pasture in west of Iran. Methods From July 2015 to October 2015, 370 blood samples of sheep and goat were collected from different regions in Hamedan province, Iran. The DNA extracted from blood and subsequently, 16S rRNA and MSP4 genes were analyzed by nested-PCR, semi nested-PCR and RFLP methods. Results In the PCR assessment, overall 27.5% (102/370) of sheep and goat were positive for Anaplasma ovis and A. marginale infection, which was lower than reports from tropical and subtropical regions of Iran. Statistical analysis (the Chi -square test) did not show any significant relation between infection and variables such as location, tick infestation age and sex ( P > 0.05). No significant correlation between the altitude and the Anaplasma species infection was found (Mann–Whitney test: P > 0.05). However, Anaplasma infection in goat significantly is more than the sheep ( P = 0.008). Conclusions The ecological changes affect the frequency and distribution of Anaplasma species. Furthermore, our results indicate that sheep as potential reservoirs of A. marginale . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Haemonchus species are among ruminants' important blood-feeding and pathogenic nematodes. This study aimed to determine morphometric and phylogenetic characteristics of Haemonchus spp. isolates from sheep and goats in two different regions of Iran. A total of 340 isolates of adult Haemonchus spp. from the animals of Khuzestan and Lorestan provinces were identified using morphometric and molecular characteristics. Differentiating functions (DF) of male Haemonchus spp. as well as vulvar morphology and flap diversity for female Haemonchus spp. were determined. The twenty-four samples of Haemonchus contortus that showed the most phenotypic differences were analyzed for the sequencing of two genes, ITS-2 and ND4. Since the DF was less than 0.63, all male isolates were H. contortus. The results showed significant differences in some morphometric characteristics of males and females of H. contortus in animals of two regions. H. contortus female worms showed smooth (2–20 %), knobbed (32–65 %), and linguiform (20–66 %) forms as the lowest vulvar morphs and most common vulvar flap types. Phylogenetic and sequence analysis of ITS2 and ND4 sequences revealed the presence of five and three genotypes for all the isolates, respectively. Morphometric and molecular findings in the present study confirmed H. contortus as the only species in small ruminants from two regions of Iran. The morphometric indices of male and female isolated worms of H. contortus were significantly different concerning the species of animal (goat and sheep) and the geographical region. This study showed that ND4 is more valuable for studying the diversity and phylogeny of H. contortus than ITS2. In this study, there was no correlation between genotypes of different isolates and morphological characteristics, indicating variations in genotypes did not appear to affect the phenotype of H. contortus. • Haemonchus contortus was the only species identified in small ruminants of Western and Southwestern Iran. • Morphometric indices of male and female H. contortus were different between sheep and goats. • NADH dehydrogenase 4 (ND4) is useful to characterize diversity and phylogeny of H. contortus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ecosystem in the Zagros region of Iran, where this study was conducted, is characterized by joint occurrence of trees and grasses. Here multiple-use of forest and livestock is a common practice followed by the local people. This study develops a deterministic non-linear dynamic programming bio-economic model at a village level to analyse the possible implications of such a management regime over a period of three and a half decades into the future. Required data were obtained from field surveys and secondary sources. The model was run under four alternate management regimes represented by model scenarios. Comparison of “business as usual”, “no goat” and “no sheep” model scenarios brought out that combining forest resources and livestock will not only be mutually beneficial but will also improve villagers' welfare. The results showed that state policies, like imposing ban on goat and sheep husbandry, are important in influencing area under different land uses. Sensitivity analysis highlighted the role of economic factors, e.g., prices of milk and meat and discount rate, ecological conditions, e.g., grass productivity and fire parameters in affecting the traditional forest management, land use and local community's welfare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sheep and goats are the major sources of meat in Iran. The carcasses of 1,200 sheep and also 1,200 goats with their internal organs including the liver, diaphragm, and omentum from Amol abattoir were randomly inspected to estimate the prevalence rate of Cysticercus tenuicollis and asses its relationship with season, sex, age, and infected organs in slaughtered animals. A total of 2,400 animals (goats and sheep) was examined and 4.21 % was positive for C. tenuicollis. About 4.33 and 4.08 % of goats and sheep, respectively, were infected according to this survey; the difference of the prevalence of the parasite in these two species was not significant ( P > 0.05). In both species (goat and sheep), the prevalence rate of cysts in female animals was higher than that in males; this outcome was highly significant ( P < 0.001). The infected organ of most animals was the liver while the intensity of cysticerci in other organs was very low. According to this study, it can be concluded that the prevalence rate of this parasite is low in the north of Iran and the minimum preventive measures will help control this infection and decrease the economic loss which is the result of condemnation of infected carcasses or viscera. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genetic analyses, structure, and bottlenecks were examined in six populations of Iranian indigenous goat using 13 microsatellite loci. The overall heterozygosity, polymorphism information content (PIC), and Shannon index values were 0.80, 0.74, and 2.14, respectively, indicating high genetic diversity. Both a phylogenetic tree and factorial correspondence analysis grouped the populations into two major clusters. Signatures for bottleneck events in the populations were examined by two methods, which suggested that bottlenecks had occurred in two Tali and Markhoz populations, whereas other populations (Raeini, Korki jonobe Khorasan, Lori, and Najdi) showed no signature of a genetic bottleneck in the recent past. The results showed that Iranian goats have high genetic diversity and may be of value to alternative breeding and conservation programs. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Toxoplasmosis, a zoonotic infection that is significant for public health (immunocompromised patients, pregnant women) and veterinary medicine (economic losses in the herd), is caused by an intracellular protozoan parasite belonging to the phylum Apicomplexa called Toxoplasma gondii. Consumption of unpasteurized milk and contaminated undercooked meat is a significant source for humans. The present study aimed to determine Toxoplasma gondii DNA in sheep, goats and donkeys Milk kept in East Azerbaijan province using the PCR method based on the B1 gene. For this purpose, 100 milk samples, including 45 sheep, 45 goats and 10 donkeys, were collected from different regions of northwestern Iran using direct milking and then transferred to the Food and Aquatic Health Laboratory under refrigerated conditions. The results showed that out of 100 milk samples examined, 16 samples (16%) were contaminated, and Toxoplasma gondii DNA was detected in 5 (11.11%) sheep, 9 (20%) goats and 2 (20%) donkeys milk specimen, respectively. These findings indicated that Toxoplasma gondii contaminated the raw milk, a human infection source., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors declare no conflicts of interest relevant to this study., (Copyright © 2022 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Abstract: Objective: To estimate the prevalence and distribution of bluetongue virus antibody in sheep and goats in 25 townships of Khorasan Razavi. Bluetongue is an infectious, non-contagious, arthropod born viral disease of ruminants and has been reported from most of the tropical and subtropical regions of the world. Methods: A total number of 1 034 serum samples from sheep and goats were collected and transmitted to Serological Laboratory of Veterinary Council of Khorasan Razavi. Serums were screened for the presence of group-specific bluetongue virus antibody using competitive Enzyme Linked Immuno Sorbent Assay (c-ELISA). Results: The seropositivity of sheep and goats for bluetongue was found to be 89.2%. The highest prevalence rate was seen in Taybad, Khalil-abad and Torbat-jam (100%) and the least prevalence rate was seen in Jovein (55%). Conclusions: The results showed that the majority of animals in the north-east of Iran are infected with bluetongue virus. High correlation between abortion history and seroposivity emphasize the economical importance of bluetongue virus in the sheep herds of the region. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Hydatidosis is considered to be an important economic and human public health problem in Iran, where a variety of animals act as intermediate hosts. There is limited information about the genotypes of Echinococcus granulosus in goats. In this study, 20 isolates of E. granulosus obtained from goats were characterised by mitochondrial DNA sequencing and morphology of the metacestode. The mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase 1 sequences were evaluated, and the sequence analysis indicated two genotypes within the isolates. 17 samples were identified as G1 strain, and 3 isolates were identified as G6 strain. The results of the morphological studies support the findings of the molecular studies. Two types of rostellar hooks were observed in the goat isolates, in agreement with the strain identification. Type 1 hooks were morphologically similar to those of the common sheep strains, whereas the dimensions of the hooks in type 2 were similar to those normally found in the camel strain. The morphological results suggest that Echinococcus of goat origin is phenotypically similar to either the sheep (G1) or the camel (G6) strains. Further, these results suggest that the transmission of the G1 genotype between sheep and goats seems to be the predominant mode of transmission, but further work is required to verify this. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Studying the philosophy of animal grazing and diet selection in rangelands is crucial. There are vast activities regarding animal diet that have gradually been developed since the beginning of rangeland research studies. Survey of the investigation of the animal diets throughout the world can assist in gathering and categorizing the compiled information on this subject. The present study is done by utilizing databases (e. g. Science Direct, Elsevier, and J. Store) as library research method. About 700 articles have been examined in this investigation and the results showed that the study of animal diets started in 1950s and continued in 1980s as applied and comparative research. The early studies were carried out on cattle, sheep, and goats, and then progressed on wildlife including deer, rabbits, red elk, and wild goats. The survey of these investigations have also shown that there are eight methods to study animal diets, including direct vision, fistulation, stomach content, fecal analysis, utilization, and more recently, DNA analysis. The fecal analysis and fistulation method with 11.63% and 8.25%, respectively, as maximum, and the time method and the DNA analysis with 0.15% and 0.29%, respectively, as minimum were the study methods of animal diets in which grasses, forbs and shrubs were used in most of these methods for evaluating the animal diets. Furthermore, the results showed that North America has published about 24.73% of the research articles and Asia about 1.33% articles. Although different journals have published articles on animal diets, Journal of Range Management has published about 21.06% of all the articles. The survey has also indicated that Asia has published less research on animal diet, and the Range Society or the Range Bureau of Iran collected this information from the world as a database that can be used for proper management of the native rangelands in the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rayeni goat is an Iranian Cashmere goat which is raised in large numbers in Kerman province of Iran where goat production contributes significantly to the agricultural economy. Analysis of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is a valuable aid in the diagnosis of neurological disease. Limited information is available for normal CSF parameters in goat and not much is known in Rayeni goats. The purpose of the present study was to establish reference intervals for serum and CSF from clinically healthy adult Iranian Cashmere (Rayeni) goats. In the present study, reference intervals for total nucleated cell count, total protein, glucose, urea nitrogen, sodium, potassium, chloride, calcium, phosphorous, magnesium concentrations of serum and CSF were determined for Rayeni goats to establish reference values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One hundred and fifteen cases of sub clinical mastitis were detected in a study on 510 goats from 5 herds in west central, Iran. From positive milk samples, 23 Staphylococcus spp. strains were isolated. Fourteen isolates were determined as Staphylococcus aureus (12.17%), and the other 9 (7.82%) as Staphylococcus epidermidis. Eleven and six isolates of S. aureus and S. epidermidis produced combined form of hemolysins a/β/d, while β/d hemolysins produced by 2 and 3 isolates respectively . Only one isolate of S. aureus produced single type d hemolysin. The sensitivity of all strains to 10 chemotherapeutics was tested through the disk diffusion method, 6 strains (26.08%) were determined as methicillin-resistant:out of them 4 isolates were S.aureus and 2 S.epidermidis. S. aureus and S. epidermidis isolates were 100% resistant to Cloxaciline and Kanamycin while the resistance to Penicillin was 100% in S.aureus and 33.33% in S.epidermidis isolates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Goat warble fly infestation (GWFI) by the larvae of Przhevalskiana silenus is endemic in goats of semi-hilly and mountainous regions of Iran. This myiasis has severe economic impact on tanning industries, and it is responsible for impaired milk and meat production, growth retardation and carcass depreciation. To estimate the prevalence of GWFI in the southern areas of Iran, from October 2006 to December 2008, the carcasses of 8000 goats at a Shiraz slaughterhouse and 1000 each at Marvdasht and Darab cities were examined weekly for the presence of P. silenus larvae. In addition, appropriate sections from the skin and subcutaneous tissues were processed for histopathological investigation. The prevalence rate of infestation in different cities varied from 7.0% to 18.9% and the minimum and maximum infestation rate was 3 and 78, with an average rate of infestation of 26.2 warbles per animal. Significant differences were observed in the prevalence among different age groups with no significant difference between male and female animals. First instar larvae (L1) were found on infected animals from early August to end of September, second larval stage (L2) from early October to end of November and third-stage larvae (L3) from early December to mid-March. No larvae were found on skin or subcutaneous tissues from end of March to late July. Live L1 initiated mild lymphocyte, macrophage and eosinophil infiltration while dead L1 initiated granulomatous or pyogranulomatous reactions. Live L2 induced severe inflammatory reaction and massive tissue necrosis, which continued for L3 and until the end of infestation phase. The subcutaneous tissues, dermis and epidermis became necrotic and fragmented, and L3 penetrated the necrotic area to start its aerobic life cycle. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The prevalence rate of Linguatula serrata nymphs in livers and mesenteric lymph nodes (MLNs) of 204 goats was investigated. Samples of lymph nodes and livers were examined macroscopically. A digestion method was also applied for investigation of liver samples. MLNs of 61 goats (29.9%) and livers of 13 goats (6.4%) were infected with L. serrata nymphs. There was no significant difference between the prevalence in livers and MLNs among different age groups. The prevalence in MLNs was independent of sex in each age group. It is concluded that consumption of raw or under-cooked goat liver may result in nasopharyngeal linguatulosis in humans. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The primary cause of contagious ecthyma is the orf virus, the parapoxvirus prototype. It is a viral problem observed in goat and sheep flocks in Iran, causing economic loss. Orf is a zoonosis with little epidemiological investigation present in Iran. The current research aims at determining the status of this virus, and a PCR was used as a confirmatory instrument. We sampled 668 goats and sheep and various breeding systems. Besides, the orf prevalence was studied, and vaccination efficacy was determined. Moreover, the potential risk factors surveyed for infection with ecthyma were identified. Samples were taken from goat and sheep flocks in the present cross-sectional research, and PCR was used for testing orf DNA. A checklist including animals' general information was completed. Data were analyzed using univariate tests (chi-square and t -tests) and multivariable binary logistic regression analysis. Three hundred one (45%) goats and sheep detected orf DNA. The age of 70% of positive cases was below one month. Ecthyma infection was significantly higher in imported breeds (87.3%) than indigenous (39.3%). Ninety-six percent of infected goats and sheep in the present work were not vaccinated against ecthyma. The high prevalence of the orf virus was confirmed among goat and sheep flocks in Iran. It is necessary to train ranchers regarding sanitary actions, quarantine, and application of orf vaccination plans. • This research is the biggest study about ecthyma in Iran. • In this study, we investigated the risk factors for ecthyma infection in sheep and goats. • Identifying of these risk factors can help to prevent the disease and improve the performance of sheep and goat flocks. • The veterinary organization and ranchers can use from the results of this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the thyroid disorders of ruminants is goitre, which is triggered by iodine deficiency. This study evaluates goitre in the goats of the Darreh Garm region in the vicinity of the Khorramabad city. Three goats with congenital enlarged thyroid glands were referred to the Veterinary Teaching Hospital of the Lorestan University with signs of arrhythmia, dyspnea and anorexia. Clinical examination, radiographic and sonographic evaluations were performed. Afterward, a comprehensive visual observation was accomplished in the outbreak region and blood samples were taken for thyroid hormones measurement in does and kids. Moreover, soil and forage samples were collected to assess the iodine concentration and soil parameters. Results indicated that the thyroid hormone concentration in the serum of the affected does and kids were significantly lower than healthy and treated animals. Treatment with sodium thyroxine significantly increased the concentration of T3 and T4 hormones. Pasture (5.28 ± 1.57 mg/kg) and soil (11.0 ± 1.49 mg/kg) iodine levels were lower than normal levels in this region. Histopathological slides of the thyroid glands from the dead kids indicated thyroid follicles with different sizes and hyperplasia of the glands. Overall, a 0.5 mg/kg iodine in the diet meal of the goats needs to be considered for prevention of the iodine deficiency., (© 2021 The Authors. Veterinary Medicine and Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Cystic echinococcosis is one of the most important cyclozoonotic helminthic diseases caused by various genotypes of Echinococcus granulosus SENSU lato complex in the Middle East. Echinococcus ortleppi G5 genotype has been previously reported to infect camels in Iran. However, no molecular data are available on the circulation of the cattle genotype from other animal intermediate hosts. Overall, 30 hydatid cyst samples were collected from 2015 to 2016 from sheep (n; 15) and goat (n; 15) isolates in Mazandaran province, northern Iran. The DNA of larval stages was extracted, amplified and sequenced by targeting of mitochondrial 12S rRNA marker. Based on sequencing and phylogenetic analyses, 28 isolates were identified as E. granulosus G1. However, two fertile hydatid cyst samples isolated from sheep and goat liver were confirmed as E. ortleppi with 99.8%–100% identity to species isolated from a buffalo in India. The first emergence of fertile cattle cysts from sheep and goats may have implications in the zoonotic importance of E. ortleppi in human infection and de-worming regime of infected dogs due to the shorter maturation time of G5 genotype compared with G1 genotype. Since the distribution of E. ortleppi in Iran is not fully known, further studies are urgently needed to appraise the evolutionary and epidemiology scenarios. These studies can ascertain the transmission dynamics of E. ortleppi inferred by full-length concatenated mitogenomes on the domestic and wildlife hosts, as well as humans in wider areas of Iran and the neighboring countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• P. multocida was isolated from 29.4 % of sheep and 13.8 % of goat pneumonic lungs. • A:L6 genotype the most prevalent in both sheep (59.6 %) and goat (52.4 %) isolates. • Virulence profiles (VP) detected (n = 19) correlated with capsular-LPS genotype. • VP diversity was higher among toxigenic (0.29) than non-toxigenic (0.18) isolates. • Prevalence of caspule-LPS-VP genotypes among sheep and goat isolates are significant different (P < 0.05). Pasteurella multocida is an important cause of pneumonic pasteurellosis in small ruminants. Its prevalence was investigated in 349 pneumonic lungs from sheep (n = 197) and goats (n = 152), and genotypes of isolates were determined by capsular and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) typing as well as by virulotyping based on the detection of 12 virulence-associated genes. P. multocida was isolated from 29.4 % of sheep lungs and 13.8 % of goat lungs. A (78.5 %) and D (21.5 %) capsular types, as well as L3 (41.8 %) and L6 (57.0 %) LPS genotypes, were detected, with the A:L6 genotype being the most prevalent in both sheep (59.6 %) and goat (52.4 %) isolates. A total of 19 virulence profiles (VP) were detected, seven non-toxigenic and 12 toxigenic, which correlated with the capsular–LPS genotype. All isolates of each VP belonged to the same LPS and capsular genotype, except for one isolate of VP1. The diversity in VP was higher among toxigenic (0.29) than non-toxigenic (0.18) isolates. Moreover, the toxigenic VPs showed more diversity in their capsular-LPS genotypes, with the two main toxigenic VPs belonging to genotypes D:L3 (VP2) and A:L3 (VP3). Therefore, the abundance of toxigenic isolates among sheep and goat isolates does not seem to correspond to the expansion of a more virulent lineage associated with pneumonic pasteurellosis in small ruminants. The most prevalent genotypes among sheep isolates were the non-toxigenic VP1:A:L6 (41.4 %) and the toxigenic VP3:A:L3 (17.2 %) genotypes, whereas the most prevalent among goat isolates were the toxigenic VP2:D:L3 (33.3 %) and the non-toxigenic VP1:A:L6 (14.3 %) and VP4:A:L6 (14.3 %) genotypes. These prevalent toxigenic and non-toxigenic genotypes seem to be epidemiologically relevant in pneumonic pasteurellosis of small ruminants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Raini goat is an Iranian cashmere goat which is raised in large numbers in Kerman province of Iran where goat production contributes significantly to the agricultural economy. Normal hematological indices are valuable aid in the diagnosis of hematological disorders. Determination of the main hematological and hematochemical parameters of animals helps veterinarians to confirm clinical diagnosis, estimate the severity of cases, administer appropriate treatment, and evaluate outcomes. Limited information is available for normal hematological parameters in Raini goats. The purpose of the present study was to determine reference values of hematological indices for clinically healthy Iranian cashmere (Raini) goats in order to establish a basis for clinical interpretation. In the present study, reference values for packed cell volume, hemoglobin, total RBC, total and differential WBC count were determined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Linguatula serrata is one of the zoonotic parasites. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of nymphal stages of L. serrata in mesenteric and mediastinal lymph nodes of goats slaughtered in Kerman slaughterhouse, southeast of Iran. For this purpose, mesenteric and mediastinal lymph nodes of 407 goats of different sex and age were examined, revealing an infection prevalence of 49.1%. The prevalence of L. serrata infection among goats is higher than previously reported from Iran and indicates a strong focus of infection in goats. The infection rate increased with age (P <0.05). Further, the prevalence of L. serrata nymphs in different seasons was significantly different (P <0.05), but no significant difference was observed between the prevalence in males and females at the same age (P >0.05). The potential importance of these findings to human health is discussed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• Only one third of farmers were literate, and one third were nomads. • The majority consider infectious diseases an important or very important issue. • Despite attitude, neither Knowledge nor practice scores were satisfactory. • Farmers' knowledge was mostly influenced by their experience and level of literacy. • Farmers' practice and attitude were not affected by socio-demographic factors. In Iran, despite attempts by the Iranian Vet Organization (the national veterinary organization) to increase both the vaccination of flocks and the use of precautionary measures to avoid disease outbreaks, outbreaks of transboundary and infectious diseases continue. A lack of farmer knowledge combined with limited appreciation of the importance of disease control and poor practice are likely to be important risk factors for disease spread. Therefore, it is essential to understand farmers' knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) towards infectious diseases in order to limit the impact and spread of such diseases. A questionnaire to provide information on sheep and goat farmers' understanding and KAP towards infectious diseases was designed with assistance from international experts. Calibration sessions and a pilot study were held so that interviewers would ask the questions and record the answers in a consistent manner. One hundred and thirteen farmers from Alborz and Qazvin provinces, located in the North of Iran, were interviewed and their understanding of and KAP towards infectious disease were analysed along with the factors affecting KAP. Farmers' knowledge was significantly associated with level of literacy and experience, while factors such as total number of animals each farmer owned, their system of farming, union membership, reported annual mortality, experience and literacy were all associated with their understanding of different diseases. These results will be used to target training of farmers to improve their understanding of infectious disease, with the aim of reducing their impact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Toxoplasma gondii is a common protozoan parasite among all mammals, in particular small ruminants, worldwide. Traditional husbandry can be a major risk factor for infection of sheep and goats with this parasite., Objectives: The present study aimed to determine the current status of the prevalence for T. gondii in livestock of Qazvin Province., Methods: In this cross-sectional study, the sera of 455 sheep and 375 goats were examined to detect anti-Toxoplasma IgG antibodies by using in-house indirect ELISA., Results: Overall, 33.62% (153/455) of sheep and 36.41% (130/375) of goats were positive for anti-Toxoplasma IgG antibodies with no statistically significant difference. The prevalence rate of T. gondii among the sheep of Qazvin County was significantly higher than in Abyek and Abhar counties (p < 0.001)., Conclusions: The results of the present study indicate that the prevalence of T. gondii in sheep and goats of the study area is high. Therefore, the meat of the animals reared in this area can be a potential source of human infections by this parasite.

This research was conducted to determine the prevalence and intensity of infection with nymphs of Linguatula serrata in mesenteric lymph nodes of the goats from northwest of Iran. Moreover, the intensity of infection of mesenteric lymph nodes was compared based on gross appearance and the morphological changes in these nodes. In addition, the effects of age, sex, and season on the prevalence of Linguatula serrata were assessed. In this study, mesenteric lymph nodes (n = 16,284) were randomly collected from 2132 goats slaughtered in the abattoir of Tabriz, Iran, from September 2013 to September 2017. The samples were categorized based on their gross appearance (color and consistency) and then were cut into small pieces and immersed in normal saline (0.9% NaCl) solution and left for 5 to 6 h to allow nymphs to come out from the tissue. The results showed that 1241 out of total 2132 (58. 2%) goats and 9282 out of total 16,284 mesenteric lymph nodes (57%) were infested with the nymphal stage of Linguatula serrata. It was also revealed that the infestation rate was age-dependent: as the goats grow older, the infestation increases. Further, the prevalence of Linguatula serrata nymphs in the mesenteric lymph nodes in various seasons was not significant (P > 0.05). The prevalence of infestation rate in female goats was significantly higher than of male goats (P < 0.05). Besides, the infestation rate in the black-colored lymph nodes (75.88%) was significantly (P < 0.05) higher than those of hemorrhagic nodes (54.94%) and normal-colored nodes (22.65%). Moreover, the infestation rate of nymphs in the soft lymph nodes (83.91%) was significantly (P < 0.05) higher than those in normal (21.85%) and hard (32.43%) lymph nodes. Given the fact that the Linguatula serrata is a zoonotic parasite; thus, the inspection process should be meticulously done in an abattoir, especially in areas where residents consume raw or under-cooked liver and/or visceral organs of herbivores.

Ovine and caprine malignant theileriosis (OCMT), a critical condition in small ruminant production, causes lethal infections. In September 2016, a total number of 400 goats of Marghoz breed (the largest population of goat breed in Iran), in northwest of Iran, were examined for approximately 25 pre-partum abortions and 7 goats' mortality for a period of 3 days. A dead goat and her aborted fetus were brought into the Urmia Veterinary Hospital for further diagnostic investigations. The microbiological assessments including direct microscopical examination of the vaginal discharges and placentome with respect to the differential staining (Gram's staining method), conventional pure culturing, fetal abomasal contents, and the liver were negative. Microscopic examinations of blood smears of the goat and the fetus revealed characteristic of Theileria spp. piroplasms and impression smear samples from goat liver and fetal spleen were positive for Theileria Koch blue bodies. DNA analysis was performed using PCR technique and specific primers derived from the nucleotide sequences of 18S rRNA gene of T. lestoquardi; following extraction from blood samples, placentome, goat liver, and spleen of the fetus. The amplified DNA was sequenced afterwards and the corresponding sequence was registered under GenBank accession number MG208059. The sequence alignment showed that the products of PCR had a homology of 99% to known T. lestoquardi sequence registered under accession numbers of KY352037.1, KC778786.1, and JQ917458.1 in the GenBank. To our knowledge, this is a report demonstrating molecular verification of T. lestoquardi transplacental transmission in a neonatal kid of Marghoz breed of goats, its feasible role in induction of perinatal deaths and abortion in goat flocks.

Anaplasma ovis, an arthropod-borne pathogen that infects erythrocytes, is the major cause of ovine and caprine anaplasmosis. This study was performed to assess in goats infected with A. ovis the osmotic fragility of erythrocytes, antioxidant status, and serum levels of microminerals. Blood samples were collected from 104 mixed breed goats in Ahvaz area, southwest Iran and subjected to parasitologic, hematologic, oxidant/antioxidant, and micromineral assessment. Anaplasma infection was detected in 30 samples (28.8 %) by microscopic examination of blood smears while PCR-RFLP analysis revealed infection with A. ovis in 68 samples (65.4 %). Studied animals were divided into three groups based on A. ovis infection: Uninfected goats as control group (group 1), PCR positive without parasitemia (group 2) and PCR positive with parasitemia (group 3). Hematological evaluation showed significantly increased lymphocyte and monocyte counts in Anaplasma-infected groups (group 2 and 3). A significantly lower MCHC and higher MCV were also observed in infected groups. In group 3 significant rises in erythrocyte's osmotic fragility in different salt concentrations and also in median corpuscular fragility (MCF) was seen. Evaluation of the antioxidant defense system of the erythrocytes revealed a decrease in total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in group 3. There was no significant difference in serum micromineral levels between infected and uninfected animals. Overall, the observed substantial decrease in the antioxidant enzyme activities with remarkable elevated levels of erythrocyte osmotic fragility indicate high exposure of erythrocytes to oxidative damage in Anaplasma-infected goats. These results also suggest that the disturbed antioxidant defense mechanisms in caprine anaplasmosis can promote the development of anemia.