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Abstract Acoustic telemetry is a common tool used in fisheries management to estimate fish space use (i.e., occupancy) from a local habitat scale to entire systems. Numerous analytical models have been developed to estimate different aspects of fish movement from telemetry datasets, yet evaluations of model performance and comparisons among models are limited. Here, we develop a framework to evaluate model estimates of regional occupancy in large and fragmented systems using an acoustic receiver array in Lake Champlain. We simulated the tracks of 100 acoustically tagged fish using a random walk function and created detection events based on receiver positions and distance-based detection probability. Regional occupancy for the simulated data was estimated by six movement models that ranged in analytical complexity, and results were compared to the true distributions for each simulated track to evaluate model error. The six movement models included: (1) a basic residency index using detections alone; (2) a residency index using last-observation-carried-forward; (3) a centers of activity model; (4) linear and non-linear interpolations (i.e., least-cost paths); and (5 and 6) two dynamic Brownian bridge movement models generated using separate packages in R. We developed a model selection process to compare model performance and select the optimal analysis based on simulation error. This process showed significant differences in model performance among the six movement models based on model error. Overall, the model generating least-cost paths using linear and non-linear interpolations consistently provided the most accurate regional occupancy estimates. Based on these simulation results, we applied this model to a case study that evaluated patterns in the regional distribution of stocked lake trout (Salvelinus namaycush) in Lake Champlain, which demonstrated distinct regional occupancy of two stocked lake trout groups. These results demonstrate potential for large variability in interpretation of acoustic telemetry data for describing regional fish distribution dependent on the analytical method used.

Grass carp was an important economic fish for freshwater aquaculture. The exploring and utilization of high-quality grass carp germplasm resources were important for ensuring a domestic supply of high-quality aquatic protein. However, natural grass carp populations in China were facing severe threats because of the effects of frequent human activities, water environment damage, overfishing, etc. Against this background, high-quality grass carp germplasm resources were the foundation for the healthy and sustainable development of the grass carp aquaculture industry, so systematic collection, preservation, identification, evaluation, protection, and utilization of them carry great strategic importance. This paper summarizes major research results of grass carp in morphology, cytogenetics, molecular population genetics, etc. It not only introduced genetic improvement techniques such as gynogenesis, hybrid breeding, and polyploid breeding, but also discussed the existing research on the protection measures of grass carp germplasm resources. On this basis, the paper proposed new methods to improve the protection of grass carp germplasm and create improved varieties, which could provide high-quality resources for the sustainable development of the grass carp industry.

The objective of the present study was to investigate the morphological variations among collections of okra landraces in order to improve local varieties in Palestine. Eighteen okra accessions from various locations in the West-Bank region were evaluated for morphological variation. Different sixteen morphological traits were used for okra collection evaluation. The results revealed significant differences in seed color, leaf rib color, stem color, branching patterns, and fruit characteristics. Cluster and similarity analysis classified into two main clusters (I and II) with further sub-clusters. Genetic proximity did not strictly align with geographical boundaries, suggesting that factors beyond location influence genetic similarity. Cluster I exhibited greater diversity, with sub-clusters hinting at potential local adaptation. In contrast, Cluster II was smaller and less diverse, implying potentially distinct genetic origins. These findings provide insights for breeding strategies and germplasm conservation.

There is a considerable interest in supplementing fish diets with bio-functional substances such as polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), and research is being conducted to evaluate their effects on fish physiology, particularly on breeding performances. The objective of this study was to find out how squid-derived lipids (PUFAs) influence the Rohu carp, Labeo rohita, in terms of reproduction, and embryonic and larval growth. The experimental fish were provided with formulated diet for a duration of 90 days, containing 1 % squid-extracted lipids as a primary source of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). To determine the accuracy of the formulation, a proximate analysis of the feed ingredients and the formulated feeds were conducted. The results demonstrated remarkable reproductive outcomes during the spawning trial. Observations in fish treated with PUFAs revealed a significant improvement (p

The use of herbal bio-actives and phyto-contents to increase livestock productivity is a revived interest in veterinary research. The effect of wild strawberry {Fragaria vesca (FV)} pulp extract (PE) as antioxidant supplement in bovine semen cryopreservation diluent was explored. The experiment involved three fertile bulls. Three semen ejaculates per animal were collected. Each sample was diluted with Semen Transportation Diluent (STD) in 1:2 ratio. The (semen + STD) sample was vortexed and centrifuged (at 32g for 15 min) to remove 50 % supernatant. The remaining sample was re-diluted with semen cryopreservation diluent (SCD) in the ratio 1:4. Three aliquots of 0.3 ml were set aside from each (semen + STD + SCD) sample and were further treated with; 1: 0.7 mL of SCD (SCD group); 2: 0.7 mL SCD and 0.8 % FV-PE (FV-PE 0.8) and; 3: 0.7 mL SCD and 1.6 % FV-PE (FV-PE 1.6). Sperm quality parameters were evaluated before and after 48 h of cryopreservation. Results showed significantly enhanced mean percentage of sperm viability, progressive motility, velocity and fertilizability in FV-PE 0.8 and FV-PE 1.6 groups as compared with SCD group. The findings propose the protective and ameliorative potential of FV-PE for cryopreserved bovine sperms.

The present study aimed to estimate the genetic parameters for direct and maternal influences on birth weight (BW), weaning weight (WW) and postweaning weight (PW) of Texel sheep, raised in an extensive system from Brazil. Data file used in this study consisted of 834 body weight records of 834 Texel lambs (376 males and 458 females) born from 2020 to 2021, offspring of 475 ewes and 45 rams. Multivariate animal model was conducted to estimate the variance components, heritability and genetic correlations using the restricted maximum likelihood method in ASReml-R software, while the effects of fixed factors were analyzed by the general linear model procedure of statistical analysis system. Five different animal models, with or without maternal genetic effect, maternal permanent environment effect and covariance between additive genetic and maternal genetic effects, were fitted on the growth traits data of the Texel sheep population. AIC and BIC test results were used to evaluate the best fit models for growth traits. The effect of lamb's sex was significant on BW, WW and PW while birth type and year of lambing effects were on all traits (P

The hybrid of female white crucian carp (Carassius auratus cuvieri, WCC) × male red crucian carp (Carassius auratus red var. RCC) (WR), combines desirable characteristics of both parents, including tender meat, rapid growth rate, and strong resistance. To test the hypoxia tolerance of WR, an experiment of exposure to hypoxic conditions was conducted on WR, RCC, and WCC. The results showed that WR and RCC exhibited stronger hypoxia tolerance capacity compared to WCC. The strong resistance to hypoxia of WR and RCC was manifested by the absence of damage to the hepatopancreas after hypoxia, and the fish can adapt to the hypoxic environment by enhancing the hematopoietic function of hematopoietic tissue, remodeling gill morphology, and activating the antioxidant system. By contrast, after hypoxia, the number of red blood cells and the concentration of hemoglobin in the blood of WCC decreased, and the hepatopancreas was seriously damaged, indicating that the WCC is not as tolerant to low oxygen conditions as RCC and WR.

The current study aimed to detect the genetic variability of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) cytochrome B (CYTB) gene in 80 native Egyptian rabbits (NER) belonging to three populations in three different agriculture regions (Delta, Middle, and Upper Egypt) and also investigate the origin of these breeds by phylogenetic relationship analysis. A total of 62 haplotypes were recorded among the three NER populations. The native Upper Egypt rabbits (NUER) expressed the highest number of haplotypes, mutations, polymorphic sites, and haplotype diversity (23, 55, 51, and 1.00, respectively). While it gave the lowest values of nucleotide diversity (0.0262) and Tajima's D (−0.01435), the percentage of mutual haplotypes was 4.8 % between the Middle and Delta Egypt populations. The phylogenetic analysis showed that there were more separated haplotypes of NUER compared to other populations. The same finding was also observed when supported by 31 sequences of different rabbit breeds retrieved from the GeneBank database. A mutual haplotype was observed between native Delta Egyptian rabbits (NDER) and New Zealand (NWZ) rabbits. The results of this study shed light on the importance of indigenous breeds in rural areas through mtDNA, which contributes to finding sustainable strategies to conserve and improve genetic resources in Egyptian rural areas.

The hybrids (BY) derived from blunt snout bream (Megalobrama amblycephala, BSB, ♀) and Bleeker's yellow tai (Xenocypris davidi Bleeker, YT, ♂) have a fast growth rate and body thickness. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the growth advantage of BY are still unclear. MSTN, a member of the TGF-β superfamily, is a negative regulator of muscle growth and development. MYOD, a member of the myogenic regulatory factor family (MRFs), is a positive regulator of muscle growth and development. MSTN and MYOD interact to co-regulate muscle growth and development. In this study, we cloned the full-length cDNAs of mstn and myod in BY, analyzed differential expression of the two genes in muscle of BY and its parents, and observed the localization of the two genes during embryonic development of BY. Multiple sequence alignment of amino acids and phylogenetic analysis showed that mstn and myod were highly conserved in BY, BSB, YT, and other carp family fishes. Quantitative Real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) showed that mstn and myod were primarily expressed in muscle of BY, and there were significant differences in the expression of the two genes in the red and white muscles of BY, BSB, and YT at different age. The results of in situ hybridization of embryos showed an overlap in the temporal and spatial expression of mstn and myod in BY embryo development, suggesting that the two genes might interact to co-regulate embryo growth and development. This study provides a theoretical basis for further research on the mechanisms of mstn and myod in muscle growth of hybrid fishes.

Sexual selection is critical to animal reproduction. Mate choice not only determines an individual's capacity for reproduction but is also the primary mode of selection in sexual selection. Mate choice behavior relies on social information, and animals can extract useful information (e.g., genetic quality, hormone levels, physiological status, habitat) about potential mates based on morphological and behavioral traits they observe or perceive and can modify their mate choice strategy by detecting and integrating this information. The information conveyed by potential mates is multimodal. This paper synthesizes the effects of several factors, including individual biological characteristics, sensory systems, hormones and genotype on mate choice, demonstrating that mate choice preferences in the traditional sense are generally more favorable for individuals with superior genes and phenotypes. And the paper also explores the limitations of these studies on mate choice and proposes the future major trend of the correlational research in this field. This work will provide helpful information for guiding the subsequent studies of mate choice in animals.

Abstract Background Seabirds like penguins and petrels, living in Antarctic and sub-Antarctic regions, often feed hundreds or even thousands of kilometers away from the islands where they breed. They therefore adapted to endure prolonged fasting during egg incubation, enabling their partner to undertake foraging trips that can last up to two weeks. Aside from accumulating and consuming fat reserves, it is unclear whether seabirds have developed further adaptations to extended fasting periods. This lack of knowledge is in part due to their remote nesting location and their extreme sensitivity to manipulation. To overcome this lack of knowledge, we developed a non-invasive device to record the heart rate (HR) of burrow-nesting blue petrels (Halobaena caerulea) during egg incubation. For that, we encapsulated a small-size logger in a dummy egg to record electrocardiograms (ECGs) through the featherless incubation patch of the birds. Results The blue petrels’ HR (208 ± 15 beats per min [bpm]; n = 6) that we recorded during egg incubation was slower than the HR predicted by two different allometric functions regressing HR against body mass (242 and 250 bpm). Blue petrels’ HR also presented cyclical variation correlated to respiration, resembling the physiological Respiratory Sinus Arrhythmia (RSA) described in humans and other species, and that is mainly modulated by the vagal nerve. Moreover, the basal HR of incubating blue petrels increased about every minute during egg movements that presumably reflect egg turning, important for embryo survival and development. During these events, blue petrels’ HR increased up to a maximum of 296 ± 27 bpm for 18 ± 2 s (n = 6). We estimated that those egg movements increased energy expenditure (EE) by 8.4 ± 1.3%, which is approximately 10 times less than the energy increase induced by the disturbance linked with the removal of the dummy egg at the end of the experiment. Interestingly, we noticed that the beginning of HR increase preceded egg movements by 4.3 ± 0.9 s (n = 6), as if birds needed to gradually increase their metabolism to achieve the following action. As well, blue petrels needed 9.1 ± 1.3 s (n = 6) to recover basal levels of HR after the end of egg movements. Conclusion We recorded for the first time ECGs, HR and RSA in blue petrels in a completely non-invasive way. This allowed us to observe (1) slow basal HR during egg incubation, which could save energy for prolonged fasting and (2) temporal HR increase, possibly necessary to reposition the egg for proper embryonic development.

Abstract Background Understanding how free-ranging animals behave can help in the design of optimal management strategies to both conserve species and enable individuals to express natural behaviours, maximising welfare. Animal-borne accelerometers passively collect data on body acceleration which can be interpreted to quantify behaviour. Accelerometers are increasingly used in behavioural research, however validation of accelerometer readouts to enable classification of discrete behaviours is required for each species. Pangolins are a heavily trafficked clade of mammals, all of which are considered vulnerable to extinction. They are also under-researched, with little known about their behaviour in the wild. In this study, we present the first validation of behavioural classification based on accelerometer readouts for a pangolin species; the ground pangolin (Smutsia temminckii). Results We present a standardised protocol for attaching accelerometers to pangolins to minimise the impact of devices on welfare. We match the readouts from accelerometers to behaviours defined through video observations. Using a random forest classification, we defined five discrete behaviours (walking, digging, feeding, investigating ground, and stationary, accuracy of 85%) and three activity levels (low, medium, and high, accuracy of 94%) from accelerometer readouts. We determine optimal sampling frequency and window length (50 Hz and five seconds for discrete behaviour, 10 Hz and seven seconds for activity level). We then deploy accelerometers and classify the behaviour of three free-ranging pangolins for between two and four days. We find considerable variation in peak daily activity between free-ranging pangolins with different individuals displaying nocturnal and crepuscular behaviour. We also find that pangolins spend the majority of their time (between 62 and 71%) at rest. Conclusion The methods we present will enable the quantification of ground pangolin behaviour in the wild to improve our understanding of the species’ ecology and help inform conservation efforts. This will also help to improve our fundamental understanding of animal behaviour and ecology.

Abstract Background Automated radio telemetry (ART) systems enable high-temporal resolution data collection for species unsuited to satellite-based methods. A challenge of ART systems is estimating the location of radio tagged animals from the radio signals received on multiple antennas within an ART array. Localisation methods for ART systems with omni-directional receivers have undergone rapid development in recent years, with the inclusion of machine learning techniques. However, comparable machine learning methods for ART systems with directional antennas are unavailable, despite their potential for improved accuracy and greater versatility. To address this, we introduce an open-source machine learning-based location fingerprinting method for directional antenna-based ART systems. We compare this method to two alternative localisation approaches. Both alternatives use relative signal strengths recorded among multiple antennas to estimate the signal’s angle of arrival at each receiver. In the ‘biangulation’ approach, the location is estimated by finding the intersection of these angles from two receivers. In contrast, the ‘linear regression’ approach uses a linear regression model to estimate the distance from the receiver along the angle of arrival, providing a location estimate. We evaluate these methods using an ART data set collected for the southern black-throated finch (Poephila cincta cincta), in the Desert Uplands Bioregion of Queensland, Australia. Results The location fingerprinting method performed slightly better than the best performing alternative, the linear regression method, with mean positional errors of 308 m (SE = 17.7) and 335 m (SE = 18.5), respectively. The biangulation method performed substantially worse, with a mean positional error of 550 m (SE = 42.9, median = 540 m). Improved accuracy was observed with shorter distances between transmitters and receivers, higher signal strengths, and a greater number of detecting receivers, suggesting that increasing receiver density improves localisation accuracy, albeit with potential trade-offs in system coverage or cost. Furthermore, shorter pulse intervals of transmitters resulted in greater accuracy, highlighting the trade-offs among battery life, transmitter weight and radiative power. Conclusions The open-source location fingerprinting method offers an improved and versatile localisation approach suitable for a wide variety of ART system designs, addressing the challenge of developing study-specific localisation methods using alternative approaches.

Abstract The study of animal movement provides insights into underlying ecological processes and informs analyses of behaviour and resource use, which have implications for species management and conservation. The tools used to study animal movement have evolved over the past decades, allowing for data collection from a variety of species, including those living in remote environments. Satellite-linked radio and GPS collars have been used to study polar bear (Ursus maritimus) ecology and movements throughout the circumpolar Arctic for over 50 years. However, due to morphology and growth constraints, only adult female polar bears can be reliably collared. Collars have proven to be safe, but there has been opposition to their use, resulting in a deficiency in data across much of the species’ range. To bolster knowledge of movement characteristics and behaviours for polar bears other than adult females, while also providing an alternative to collars, we tested the use of fur- and ear-mounted telemetry tags that can be affixed to polar bears of any sex and age. We tested three fur tag designs (SeaTrkr, tribrush and pentagon tags), which we affixed to 15 adult and 1 subadult male polar bears along the coast of Hudson Bay during August–September 2021–2022. Fur tags were compared with ear tags deployed on 42 subadult and adult male polar bears captured on the coast or the sea ice between 2016 and 2022. We used data from the tags to quantify the amount of time subadult and adult males spent resting versus traveling while on land. Our results show the three fur tag designs remained functional for shorter mean durations (SeaTrkr = 58 days; tribrush = 47 days; pentagon = 22 days) than ear tags (121 days), but positional error estimates were comparable among the Argos-equipped tags. The GPS/Iridium-equipped SeaTrkr fur tags provided higher resolution and more frequent location data. Combined, the tags provided sufficient data to model different behavioural states. Furthermore, as hypothesized, subadult and adult male polar bears spent the majority of their time resting while on land, increasing time spent traveling as temperatures cooled. Fur tags show promise as a short-term means of collecting movement data from free-ranging polar bears.

Abstract Range tests play a critical role in designing acoustic telemetry studies, guiding equipment configuration, deployment techniques, and the analysis of animal movement data. These studies often strive to capture the effects of environmental variation on detection efficiency over time but are frequently limited in spatial and temporal scale. This could lead to disparities between test results and the circumstances encountered during animal tracking studies. In this study, we evaluated detection range and efficiency at two distinct spatial and temporal scales in a dynamic intertidal ecosystem. Two range tests were conducted, the first being a small-scale study using 6 receivers deployed over 1 month. Using modern acoustic receivers with built-in transmitters and environmental sensors, we then conducted a large-scale range test with 22 receiver stations over a full year to approximate the area and duration of a typical animal movement study. Differences in detection range between the two studies occurred as a result of environmental variation and tag power output, with midpoint ranges estimated as 123 m (small scale, low power), 149 m (small scale, high power) and 311 m (large scale, very high power). At both scales, wind speed emerged as the most influential factor explaining temporal variation in predicted detection efficiency. However, this effect was modulated by wind direction which varied as a result of land sheltering and fetch between the two study scales. At the small scale, detection efficiency decreased with winds from the south and east, while at the large scale, northern and westerly winds were most detrimental. Water temperature had a positive effect on predicted detection efficiency at both scales, while relative water level was positive at the small scale and negative at the large scale. Additional factors, including precipitation and Topographic Position Index, were found to influence detection efficiency at a large scale. Moreover, sensors associated with receivers in the larger array revealed the significant influences of receiver tilt and ambient noise. These discrepancies in the outcomes of the two studies underscore the critical role of scale in range test design and emphasize the need for long-term, in situ range testing at relevant spatial scales.

Abstract Acoustic telemetry can provide valuable space-use data for a range of marine species. Yet the deployment of species-specific arrays over vast areas to gather data on highly migratory vertebrates poses formidable challenges, often rendering it impractical. To address this issue, we pioneered the use of acoustic telemetry on basking sharks (Cetorhinus maximus) to test the feasibility of using broadscale, multi-project acoustic receiver arrays to track the movements of this species of high conservation concern through the coastal waters of Ireland, Northern Ireland, and Scotland. Throughout 2021 and 2022, we tagged 35 basking sharks with acoustic transmitters off the west coast of Ireland; 27 of these were detected by 96 receiver stations throughout the study area (n = 9 arrays) with up to 216 detections of an individual shark (mean = 84, s.d. 65). On average, sharks spent ~ 1 day at each acoustic array, with discrete residency periods of up to nine days. Twenty-one sharks were detected at multiple arrays with evidence of inter-annual site fidelity, with the same individuals returning to the same locations in Ireland and Scotland over 2 years. Eight pairs of sharks were detected within 24 h of each other at consecutive arrays, suggesting some level of social coordination and synchronised movement. These findings demonstrate how multi-project acoustic telemetry can support international, cost-effective monitoring of basking sharks and other highly mobile species. Decision support tools such as these can consolidate cross-border management strategies, but to achieve this goal, collaborative efforts across jurisdictions are necessary to establish the required infrastructure and secure ongoing support.

Milk rice pudding (MRP) is a commercial and popular dairy dessert, but owing to its characteristics and valuable ingredients, it may be contaminated by many pathogenic and spoilage microorganisms. So, this study aimed to improve the quality and safety of MRP by using cinnamon and clove essential oils. Concerning the evaluation of the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) for both oils with 0.2, 0.5, and 1% concentrations, B. cereus and B. subtilis were sensitive (+) to cinnamon and clove 0.5%, with inhibition zones of 13.3 and 14 mm for cinnamon and 11.3 and 12 mm for clove EO, respectively. While both bacteria were very sensitive (++) to cinnamon 1% (18.8 and 19.5 mm) and clove 1% (17.3 and 18.7 mm), respectively. Therefore, MRP was prepared by adding cinnamon and clove EOs at 0.6%. Treatments containing EOs showed a significant reduction of tested microorganisms compared to controls. B. cereus wasn’t detected in clove and cinnamon EO treatments at day 21 of the storage period, while B. subtilis vanished on day 14 for the cinnamon treatment and on day 21 for clove MRP. Moreover, the results revealed the enhancement of sensory characteristics of MRP supplemented with EOs without any significant alteration in their pH values. This study recommends the addition of cinnamon and clove EOs (0.6%) to MRP, as it isn’t only an excellent substitution of chemical preservatives with powerful antibacterial efficiency but also improves the overall acceptance of the product.

The present study aimed to isolate and identify Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus MRSA from the nasal cavity of healthy cows and buffaloes and their breeders in Nineveh Governorate and detect some virulence factors by using molecular methods. A total of 150 samples of cotton swabs were collected randomly from different areas of Nineveh governorate. The samples were cotton swabs from the nasal passages of healthy cattle, buffaloes, and their breeders (50 swabs of each type). All the samples were subjected to culture and molecular testing. The results showed the highest isolation percentage of S. aureus from cattle followed by breeders, then buffaloes, at 54%, 40%, and 32%, respectively. The total isolation percentage of MRSA was 65.1%. The highest percentage was in buffaloes, followed by breeders and cattle, at 93.75%, 70%, and 44.44%, respectively. Out of 41 isolates from cattle, buffaloes, and their breeders, the virulence genes clfA, clfB, and coa were detected in MRSA at rates of 100%, 80.49%, and 65.85%, respectively. The current study concluded that cattle and buffalo are considered carriers and potential transmitters of MRSA, which makes them risk factors for infection in humans, especially those who are in direct contact with animals. Together, these findings also highlight the need to prevent the transmission of zoonotic pathogens to humans via occupational exposure or consumption of contaminated animal products.

Meat contamination occurs in a variety of ways, the most significant of which include live animals prior to slaughter (infected animals), workers and tools used in the slaughter process, and post-slaughter activities to prepare the carcasses (removing the skin and viscera). Raw meat remains the primary source of many diseases caused by microbes that are transmitted to humans, especially those that cause food poisoning, such as Escherichia coli and Salmonella spp., which are considered among the most important health problems facing the world. Therefore, we decided to study the efficiency of using some organic acids (lactic acid and beefxide) to reduce the number of pathogenic Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp., on the surfaces of beef carcasses in the slaughterhouse of Mosul city. Eighty samples (beef carcass sponge swabs) were collected over the course of three months between September 13, 2023, and December 11, 2023, using culture method and polymerase chain reaction. Our findings of pathogenic bacteria including Shiga toxin-producing E. coli, showed the presence of 4 isolates out of 40 carcass samples (4/40: 10%); all were isolated from the sample’s prior treatment with organic acids, 3 of which possessed the stx1 gene and one isolate had the stx2 gene. The study also revealed that there were only two isolates of Salmonella spp. (2/40: 5%) in beef carcasses that possessed the invA gene and these are samples that have not been treated with organic acids. This study concludes the effectiveness of lactic acid and beefxide solutions in removing pathogenic bacteria such as Shiga toxin-producing E. coli and Salmonella spp. from beef carcasses.

This case report describes, for the first time, a simultaneous occurrence of open-cervix pyometra and gangrene of the tongue in a ten-year-old intact female Griffon dog. The bitch had a three-week history of grayish black thin purulent vulvar discharge, severe licking of the external genitalia, polyuria, polydipsia, inappetence and lethargy. The owner acknowledged of estrous cycle since two months. Blood work revealed severe leukocytosis, neutrophilia, monocytosis and elevated level of globulins. Urinalysis revealed low specific gravity of the urine. Abdominal radiography showed fluid-filled and slightly enlarged uterus. Ultrasonography of the abdomen revealed enlarged uterus with a thickened uterine wall. The diameter, wall thickness, and luminal thickness of the uterus were 2.32 cm, 0.38 cm, and 1.94 cm, respectively. Accumulation of anechoic-hypoechoic pus inside the uterus was also noticed. The case was confirmed as open-cervix pyometra therefore, ovariohysterectomy was carried out. After 48 hours post-operative, the bitch developed dry gangrene of the tongue. The cranial fourth of tongue became cold, insensitive, dry and grayish white. Moreover, there were diminished lingual function and a clear line of demarcation between the healthy and gangrenous parts of the tongue. Partial glossectomy was carried out and tolerated by the bitch. The animal had acceptable and functional outcomes. In conclusion, transmission of infection from open-cervix pyometra to the tongue is possible leading to dry gangrene in dogs.

The African giant rat is a very prolific animal in its natural biotope. But in captivity, this species exhibits poor reproductive performance due to embryonic resorption. These resorptions are due to oxidative stress or a lack of progesterone production. This study was carried out to evaluate whether aqueous and ethanolic extracts of ginger, given their antioxidant and steroidogenic properties, can improve the antioxidant status and serum progesterone level during gestation in African giant rats. For this purpose, twenty-eight adult female African giant rats were divided into seven treatments comparable in terms of body weight: the control group received only avocado paste (7 g/day), while the other groups received either aqueous or ethanolic extracts at doses of 250, 500, and 750 mg/kg bw in a homogeneous mixture of paste. Animals were individually housed and had free access to food and drinking water. Eight days after the start of the test, the females were bred with males. Each female was sacrificed on the 15th day post-coitus, then the blood was collected from the jugular vein and centrifuged at 3500 rpm for 15 minutes and the serum obtained was used for the determination of progesterone and markers of oxidative stress concentrations. The results showed that except for females who had received 750 mg/kg bw of aqueous extract, the serum progesterone level was significantly (P˂0.05) higher in the treated animals compared to the control. The administration of the ethanolic extract at doses of 250 and 500 mg/kg bw induced a significant (P˂0.05) increase in the levels of malondialdehyde, catalase and superoxide dismutase compared to the control group. On the other hand, the administration of aqueous extract significantly (p < 0.05) lowered the level of total peroxidases compared to the control. Aqueous and ethanolic extracts of ginger can be used to increase serum progesterone levels, but cannot be used to improve oxidative stress status.

Camels play a crucial role as multipurpose animals, providing milk and meat and serving as a means of transportation. They serve as a financial reserve for pastoralists and hold significant cultural and social value. Camel milk, known for its exceptional nutritional properties, is considered a valuable substitute for human milk. However, udder infections, particularly mastitis, pose significant challenges to camel farming. Mastitis, especially the subclinical form, is a persistent and prevalent condition affecting milk hygiene and quality in dairy camels. This review offers insights into the prevalence, risk factors, and bacterial pathogens associated with subclinical mastitis in camels, noting its prevalence ranging from 9.28% to 87.78%. Pathogens identified include Staphylococcus aureus, Coagulase-negative Staphylococcus, Streptococcus agalactiae, Streptococcus dysgalactiae, Escherichia coli, Micrococcus spp., Pasteurella haemolytica, and Corynebacterium spp. The study outlines key risk factors contributing to camel mastitis, emphasizing severe tick infestation, age, lactation stage, parity, body condition score, skin lesions on the teats or udders, anti-suckling devices, udder history, conformation, breed, unhygienic milking practices, and production system, amongst others, that have been reported to be important in the prevalence of subclinical mastitis. The findings underscore the importance of holistic management practices, emphasizing hygiene, health monitoring, and targeted interventions to ensure camel well-being and productivity in various agro-pastoral contexts.

The skull is a group of flat and irregular bones that protect the brain and special sense organs. The shape of the head depends on the shape of the skull, which is closely related to certain structural and phenotypic features commonly used to identify and characterize different breeds of animals, their genetic profiles, and their relationship with the surrounding environment. 29 samples of indigenous Iraqi sheep fetuses were collected through daily visits to the slaughterhouses in Mosul city. The crown-rump length was measured to determine gestational ages in days. In the current study, the gestational ages of the fetuses ranged between 40 and 71 days, and a crown-rump length between 2.2 and 17 cm was used to accurately determine the locations of the ossification centers using the double stain (alizarin red S and alizarin blue stain) using an anatomical microscope. Histological examination of the head of the fetus was to determine the different stages of ossification. At 42 days of gestation, several primary ossification centers appeared in the right frontal bone near the right orbit. At 45 days of gestation, ossification centers appeared in the zygomatic processes of the temporal bone and the parietal bone. At 48 days of gestation, ossification centers appeared in the temporal bone. At 50 days of gestation, ossification centers appeared in the sphenoid bone. At 57 days of gestation, ossification centers appeared in the squamous and basilar parts of the occipital bone. At 61 days of gestation, the ossification of the inter-parietal bone and the occipital condyles were observed. Histological examination showed that the ossification center consisted of separate groups of osteoblasts in the membranous neurocranium, which ossified intramembranous. In contrast, the base of the skull was cartilaginous in origin, which ossified the endochondral. The very significant result of this study is that the appearance of ossification centers and their development happen within the seventh to ninth weeks of pregnancy, which makes this period the most dangerous time for bone growth, particularly cranium and skull base bones. Thus, it’s important to prevent giving any medicine or treatment during that period, which might interrupt or delay this vigorous progression.

This study aimed to determine the prevalence of Cysticercus tenuicollis among 500 Red Sokoto goats slaughtered at the Akinyele abattoir in Ibadan between October and December. This period targeted the wet month, transition from rainy to dry season, and the dry month. Post-mortem examinations were conducted on goats for C. tenuicollis. Cysts that were recovered underwent identification based on their morphology, with both their number and location documented. The study found an overall prevalence rate of 38.2%. Among the 416 males and 84 females examined, 160 (38.5%) and 31 (36.9%), respectively, were found to be infected, with no significant differences observed between the sexes. Prevalence in October was 47.1% (106/225), November was 40.5% (75/185), and December was 11.1% (10/90), with higher rates in wet months transitioning to lower rates in dry months, with a significant association between prevalence and month. Among the 281 cysts identified, they were distributed across the liver (18, 6.4%), mesentery (98, 34.9%), and omentum (165, 58.7%). Notably, C. tenuicollis was most commonly found in the omentum, accounting for 58.7% of the cases. The distribution of cysts by location and the analysis of potential risk factors for sex and age showed a significant association with age but not with sex. Although more cysts were observed in males, the difference was not statistically significant. This study provides valuable baseline data on the prevalence of C. tenuicollis in goats during the study period. The high prevalence and distribution patterns identified can serve as crucial insights for designing effective control strategies, including targeted anthelmintic treatments and improving meat inspection protocols.

The present study was conducted to investigate the internal and external biosecurity levels and their association with Mycoplasma gallisepticum infection in broiler farms in Khartoum State, Sudan. Sixty-six broiler farms were selected. A questionnaire of 77 questions on internal and external biosecurity measures was administered during each farm visit. A total of 360 blood samples were collected and used for serological examination to detect antibodies against M. gallisepticum. The overall score of biosecurity was 0.57, and the average score of internal biosecurity (0.75) was higher (p < /em>< 0.05). Fifty percent of the farms were positive for M. gallisepticum. The disease incidence correlated positively with the spread of manure on neighboring farms (rs= 0.44, p < /em>

Diabetes mellitus is a major health challenge that has harmful effects on the quality of life globally as a result of its numerous complications. This study aimed to evaluate the positive modulatory effect of Lawsonia inermis (LI) Linn on various haemobiochemical parameters and lipid profiles in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Ten groups of diabetic rats (n = 5) were orally administered 50 and 100 mg/kg of three different fractions of Lawsonia inermis: metformin (500 mg/kg) and glibenclamide (5 mg/kg), whereas untreated hyperglycaemic and normoglycaemic rats received distilled water. The results showed increased red blood cells (RBC) in treated rats compared to untreated diabetic rats. Hb, MCV, MCH, and MCHC decreased nonsignificantly, whereas WBC increased nonsignificantly. Neutrophil increased non-significantly in diabetic, untreated rats, while all the treatment groups decreased non-significantly. Lymphocytes and monocytes increased non-significantly (p > 0.05). Most treatment groups showed a non-significant (p > 0.05) increase in the platelet count. The ALT levels decreased non-significantly (p > 0.05) compared to normoglycemic rats. The AST levels decreased significantly (p < 0.01). ALP decreased non-significantly in both treated and untreated groups, whereas bilirubin did not show any significant changes. Creatinine and urea levels in untreated diabetic rats increased non-significantly, while treatment groups decreased non-significantly. Lawsonia inermis-treated rats showed significant improvement in erythrocytic fragility, while glycated haemoglobin in untreated-diabetic and glibenclamide-treated rats increased significantly (p > 0.001). Triglycerides and high-density lipoprotein decreased non-significantly, while low-density lipoprotein increased non-significantly (p > 0.05) in diabetic untreated rats. All treatment groups showed a non-significant (P > 0.05) decrease in low-density lipoprotein. Lawsonia inermis showed a significant positive modulatory effect on the haemobiochemical changes, glycated Hb, osmotic fragility, and lipid profile in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats.

Ration contamination with cadmium chloride (CdCl2) leads to serious economic loss. The current study aimed to explain the ameliorative effect of grape seed extract (GSE) either alone or in combination with CdCl2. One hundred and fifty chicks were used in the current study. They were equally alienated into 6 groups; group I was kept as control. Group II: given grape seed extract by the first dose (GSE1) of 250 mg/kg; group III: given grape seed extract by the second dose (GSE2) of 500 mg/kg; group IV: given cadmium chloride (CdCl2) to evaluate the undesirable effects of the dose (100 mg/kg diet). Group V: given combination of GSE1+ CdCl2, group VI: given combination of GSE2+ CdCl2. At the end of the 3rd and 5th weeks, the following parameters were measured: Serum oxidants and antioxidants (GSH, SOD, CAT and MDA), brain oxidants and antioxidants (SOD, CAT, MDA, and NO), semi-quantitative RT-PCR detection of brain and liver GST and GPx, as well as serum cytokines (IL-1β, IL-10, and TNF-α), were determined. The results put on display show that GSE extract considerably ameliorated the levels of serum and tissue oxidants and antioxidants, as well as cytokines that ramshackle CdCl2. Histopathological assessment of brain tissue and BAX brain sections was in concurrence with the immunological, oxidant, antioxidant, and RT-PCR results. It is important to take into consideration that the immunostimulant, antioxidative properties of GSE are mechanistically achieved. So, GSE could be used as a protective agent against ration contamination.

Acupuncture, moxibustion, and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) have demonstrated good effects in treating refractory gynecological infertility. This case involved an advanced-stage patient diagnosed with an infantile uterus and categorized as having primary infertility. An in vitro fertilization (IVF) center initially declined treatment, suggesting adoption as an alternative. After six months of acupuncture, moxibustion, and Chinese herbal therapy, the patient achieved a successful pregnancy. She subsequently gave birth to a healthy baby boy via caesarean section at full term. The combined use of acupuncture and TCM significantly improved the constitution of this patient with an infantile uterus.

As a carnivorous fish, the cannibalism are prone to happen in the early seedling stage in Dongting catfish (Silurus asotus), especailly when there is not enough food, which resulting in the low survival rate of Dongting catfish. To find clues to improve the survival rate of Dongting catfish offspring, the comparative transcriptomics analysis were conducted between normal and malformed larval fish, as well as normal larval fish before and after first food intake. In normal and malformed larval fish groups, a total of 881 differential genes were identified, including 634 up-regulated genes and 247 down-regulated genes. From these genes related to growth hormone synthesis and secretion were screened out as SLA isoform X1, SOCS3, STAT1b, JUNB, respectively. In the group of larval fish before and after the first food intake, 4901 up-regulated genes and 3660 down-regulated genes were found, from which the differential genes related to protein digestion and absorption pathway and pancreatic secretion pathway were screened out as cathepsin D precursor, elastase 2 like precursor, elastase 2 precursor, LPL isoform X1, CTRB1 precursor, CTRL precursor, CPA precursor, FABP, SLC15A1, CEL tandem duplicate 2 precursor. The differential genes screened for association with amino acid metabolism were ASAOC precursor, PLD3, NDPKs, trehalase, UMP-CMP kinase, L-amino-acid oxidase, PLB1, FALDH isoform X2, PLA2 precursor, glucokinase. Meanwhile, nine differential genes were selected for qPCR verification. The results confirmed that the relative expression trends of these genes were consistent with those found in the transcriptome. These findings provide an important reference for developing strategies to enhance the survival rate of Dongting catfish at early seedling stage.

The phenomenon of fluctuating chili prices can be resolved in stages, one of which is through multiple crosses. However, this cross requires precise methods in the evaluation and selection process, especially regarding fruit characteristics. Image-based phenotyping 4.0 approaches can increase the potential precision of such evaluation genotypes, especially when this approach is combined with multivariate analysis. Therefore, both methods are needed to evaluate and select these cayenne multiple crosses. This research aims to identify the effectiveness of multivariate analysis and image-based explanatory characteristics of fruit phenotypes and to select multiple crosses that can continue to the F2 generation. The research was designed with a randomized complete block design of ten F1 multiple cross-genotypes and four check varieties. Each genotype was repeated three times, so there were 42 experimental units. Based on the results, multivariate was considered adequate in determining image explanatory characters based on fruit phenotype and genotype mapping of the population diversity of multiple crosses of cayenne pepper. The characteristics of fruit height, fruit area, and fruit Intden are image-based explanatory characters that can map the completeness of cayenne pepper fruit between multiple crosses well. This indicates that image-based phenotyping and multivariate analysis can provide more detailed image information of the potential of cayenne fruit from multiple crosses than just based on fruit weight. Therefore, both approaches are recommended for analyzing cayenne paper fruit potential, especially for multiple crosses. In addition, three crosses (MC4, MC8, and MC9) are optimal for the next generation to be recommended and continued.

Numerous studies on endometritis of postpartum dairy cows describe the bacterial aetiology of the condition. However, studies on fungal agents causing inflammatory conditions of the reproductive tract are limited. The objective of the present study was to identify the mycotic isolates from the reproductive tract of postpartum dairy cows and analyse their susceptibility to antifungal agents. In this study, 70 endometrial cytobrush samples were collected from dairy cows 40 - 120 days postpartum (dpp) and cultured in Sabouraud dextrose agar (SDA). The isolated fungal cultures were identified by Lactophenol Cotton Blue staining and were subjected to antifungal susceptibility testing. The frequency of isolation of fungi from endometrial samples was 15.71 per cent (11/70). Aspergillus niger was isolated from four (33.33%) samples, followed by Penicillium spp. (25%), Aspergillus fumigatus (16.67%), Mucor spp. (16.67%) and Absidia spp. (8.33%). Antifungal susceptibility testing revealed that 50 per cent of the isolates were susceptible to fluconazole, whereas only 25 per cent of the isolates were completely resistant to amphotericin-B. The prevalence of fungal infection in reproductive tract was higher in cows with an age of ≥ 5 years and a parity of ≥ 2, though this was not significant. A significantly higher number of cattle with history of intrauterine antibiotic therapy were positive for fungal culture. However, the association between prevalence of fungi and reproductive complications was statistically non-significant. Keywords: Postpartum dairy cows, fungal infections, Aspergillus niger, mycotic infections

A study was conducted to perform the quantitative analysis of canine foetal lung and liver sonographic images in the late term of gestation (58-67 days) and to evaluate its association with serum progesterone concentration. Thirty-two pregnant bitches were selected for the study. Lung development of foetus occurs in three different stages viz the pseudo glandular (40-48), canalicular (49-56 d) and saccular phase (57-63 d) of pregnancy. Lungs of the foetus at the time of parturition are in saccular phase of development and the alveolar phase occurs in the neonatal period. In the present study, sonographic changes occurring in the lung during the saccular phase of foetal lung development was evaluated. Mean grey level of the foetal lung and liver sonographic images were estimated using dedicated image analysis software Image J. The lung-to-liver ratio (LLR) of mean grey level (MGL) was recorded. Corresponding progesterone concentrations were also estimated for each animal. Correlation statistical analysis revealed a significant correlation between LLR of MGL and progesterone concentration in the animals selected for the study. LLR of MGL is a prognostic indicator of foetal survival and since LLR of MGL and progesterone are positively correlated, it can be used as an indicator of foetal maturity in place of progesterone concentration. Keywords: Lung-to-liver ratio of mean grey level, ultrasonography, progesterone