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The presence of bacterial pathogens such as Brucella spp., Clostridium spp., E. coli, Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella spp., Staphylococcus spp., and Streptococcus suis not only hampers pig production but also carries significant zoonotic implications. The present study aims to conduct a comprehensive meta-analysis spanning over 13 years (2010–2023) to ascertain the prevalence of these zoonotic bacterial pathogens in Indian pig populations. The study seeks to synthesize data from diverse geographic regions within India and underscores the relevance of the One Health framework. A systematic search of electronic databases was meticulously performed. Inclusion criteria encompassed studies detailing zoonotic bacterial pathogen prevalence in pigs within India during the specified timeframe. Pertinent information including authors, publication year, geographical location, sampling techniques, sample sizes, and pathogen-positive case counts were meticulously extracted. The meta-analysis of zoonotic bacterial pathogens in Indian pig populations (2010–2023) unveiled varying prevalence rates: 9% Brucella spp., 22% Clostridium spp., 19% E. coli, 12% Listeria monocytogenes, 10% Salmonella spp. and Streptococcus suis, and 24% Staphylococcus spp. The application of random effects further revealed additional variability: 6% Brucella spp., 23% Clostridium spp., 24% E. coli, 14% Listeria monocytogenes, 10% Salmonella spp. and Streptococcus suis, and 35% Staphylococcus spp. Notably, the observed heterogeneity (I2) varied significantly from 87% to 99%. The meta-analysis findings underscore the pervasive nature of these diseases throughout India's pig populations, accentuating the substantial impact of these pathogens on pig health and the potential for zoonotic transmission. The present study reinforces the importance of the adoption of a comprehensive One Health approach that acknowledges the intricate interplay between animal, human and environmental health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Classical swine fever (CSF) is caused by small enveloped RNA virus that belongs to the Flaviviridae family and causes high morbidity and mortality events for pig farming. In India, it is highly prevalent but with varied distribution in various geographical areas resulting in substantial economic losses to farmers. The discrepancy in prevalence estimates across studies needs to be evaluated in order to strengthen the prevention and control strategies of CSF in pigs. The aim of the present study was to provide the pooled estimate of the prevalence of classical swine fever (CSF) in India and to examine the consistency of those estimates between published studies. Methods: The data regarding prevalence of CSF in 7045 pigs were compiled from 22 published studies using comprehensive literature search for period from 1998 to 2018. The pooled prevalence of CSF was obtained under random effects model and heterogeneity between studies was determined using I² Index. Representation of meta-analysis was done using forest plot and followed by funnel plot, Baujat plot and radial plot. Result: The result of Meta-analysis revealed that pooled estimate of prevalence of CSF under random effects model was 45% (95% confidence interval: 35, 55%) in India. The heterogeneity statistic (Q) was found to be significant (p<0.001) with I²=98% which indicated that prevalence of CSF was inconsistent between the studies. Likewise, results of funnel plot and Radial plot indicated heterogeneity between studies. Most influential studies for overall heterogeneity were identified using Baujat and radical plots. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Japanese encephalitis viruses (JEVs) are globally prevalent as deadly pathogens in humans and animals, including pig, horse and cattle. Japanese encephalitis (JE) still remains an important cause of epidemic encephalitis worldwide and exists in a zoonotic transmission cycle. Assam is one of the highly endemic states for JE in India. In the present study, to understand the epidemiological status of JE circulating in pigs and mosquito, particularly in Assam, India, molecular detection of JEV and the genome sequencing of JEV isolates from pigs and mosquitoes was conducted. The genome analysis of two JEV isolates from pigs and mosquitoes revealed 7 and 20 numbers of unique points of polymorphism of nucleotide during alignment of the sequences with other available sequences, respectively. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the isolates of the present investigation belong to genotype III and are closely related with the strains of neighboring country China. This study highlights the transboundary nature of the JEV genotype III circulation, which maintained the same genotype through mosquito-swine transmission cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae is the primary aetiological agent of contagious porcine pleuropneumonia associated with serious economic impact on pig husbandry worldwide. Diagnosis of the disease by existing techniques including isolation and identification of bacteria followed by serotyping, serological techniques, conventional PCR, real‐time PCR and LAMP assays are cumbersome, time‐consuming, costly and not suitable for rapid field application. A novel isothermal polymerase chain reaction (PSR) technique is standardized for all the reagents, incubation time and incubation temperature against A. pleuropneumoniae. The sensitivity of the assay was determined against various dilutions of purified DNA and total bacterial count. The specificity of the assay was determined against 11 closely related bacterial isolates. The relative sensitivity and specificity were compared with bacterial isolation, conventional PCR and real‐time PCR assays. The PSR assay for specific detection was standardized at 64°C for 30 min of incubation in a water bath. The result was visible by the naked eye after centrifugation of the reaction mixture or after incorporation of SYBR Green dye as yellowish‐green fluorescence. The technique was found to be 100% specific and equally sensitive with real‐time PCR and 10 times more sensitive than conventional PCR. The PSR assay could be applicable in the detection of the organisms in porcine nasal swabs spiked with A. pleuropneumoniae. This is the first‐ever report on the development of PSR for specific detection of A. pleuropneumoniae and can be applied for early diagnosis at the field level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

India's livestock sector has been facing significant losses due to episodes of disease outbreaks since time immemorial. Hence, biosecurity measures are very important to maintain and improve animal health along with prevention of disease outbreak. Keeping these facts into consideration, the study was proposed with an objective to assess the existing biosecurity practices adopted by the commercial dairy, pig and poultry farms. The current study was undertaken in the state of Uttar Pradesh as it is the leading state in milk and meat production. A total of 120 farmers were selected randomly including 40 each practicing commercial dairy, pig and poultry farming. An ex-post facto research methodology was used with face-to-face interview and observation to collect data. The biosecurity practices were assessed under seven dimensions such as, location and design of farm, restricted access, isolation and quarantine, cleaning and disinfection, management of feed and water, disposal of carcass, manure and waste, and health management. Results elicited that about 50% of the farmers had medium level of adoption who adopted 18-34 practices out of 51 practices. The average overall adoption score was 34.17 out of 51 (67%) which makes an overall adoption gap of 33%. Maximum adoption gap was seen in case of restricted access (43%) whereas minimum gap in adoption was seen in case of management of feed and water (27%). Pig and poultry farmers showed significantly higher biosecurity measures than dairy farmers (p < 0.05). The more significant contributors to the adoption of biosecurity measures were the level of knowledge of the farmers (p < 0.01). Other factors such as education, income, herd/flock size, Information and Communication Technology utilization, number of trainings also had a significant contribution (p < 0.05) in actual implementation of biosecurity. Hence, better understanding of these measures among the farmers must be ensured by hands on training along with proper demonstration of various procedures involved in maintaining farm biosecurity is need of the hour., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature B.V.)

Background: We investigated the occurrence of blaCTX-M carrying extended spectrum beta lactamase (ESBL) producing Escherichia coli in pigs from 8 North-eastern states of India with special emphasis on the transferability of ESBL gene from resistant E. coli strains to the susceptible Salmonella strains by in vitro and in vivo. Methods: Fecal samples (n=790) were collected from pigs reared under organized and unorganized farming set up of entire Northeastern region of India. All the samples were processed for isolation and identification of E. coli. All the isolates were subjected to antimicrobial sensitivity assay by disc diffusion method followed by determination of ESBLs producing ability by double disc synergy test (DDST). All the ESBLs producing isolates were screened for blaCTX-M gene by PCR using specific primers. The representative blaCTX-M gene positive isolates were used as donor to determine the ability to transfer of resistance gene in Salmonella by in vitro and in vivo assays with and without antibiotic selection pressure. Result: A total of 2,291 E. coli was isolated, of which 1113 and 1178 were from organized and unorganized farms, respectively. Majority of the isolates were multi-drug resistant with highest resistance against amoxicillin (84.81%) followed by cefalexin (77.17%), sulphafurazole (56.79%), piperacillin (46.40%), tetracycline (38.29%) and cefexime (35.66%). Isolates from unorganized farms showed higher resistance than the isolates recovered from organized farms. A total of 654 (28.55%) isolates were confirmed as ESBL producers by double disc synergy test (DDST) method, of which 65 (2.84%) isolates were positive for blaCTX-M gene. Genotypically, isolates with specific amino acids substitution revealed variation in their antibiotic susceptibility by phenotypic method. blaCTX-M gene could be successfully transferred horizontally from E. coli (donor) to Salmonella (recipient) by in vitro (3.6±2.07×10-8 to 4.4±2.88×10-8 transconjugate per donor) and in vivo method. By in vivo method in pig model, the frequency of transfer was higher under the antibiotic selection pressure (6.6±3.05×10-5 to 7.2±1.92×10-5 trans-conjugants per donor) than without antibiotic pressure (5.6±2.3×10-4 to 6.8±3.35×10-4 trans-conjugants per donor). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Groundwater quality in the Shivganga river basin, Western India, was evaluated by an integrated approach using pollution index of groundwater (PIG), health risk assessment (HRA) and chemometric analysis. Sixty eight (68) representative groundwater samples were collected and analysed for pH, Electrical conductivity (EC), Total dissolved solids (TDS), major cation and anion during pre- (PRM) and post (POM)-monsoon seasons of 2016. Hydro-chemical analysis inferred that EC, total hardiness, alkalinity, boron and fluoride are exceeding the permissible limits of the World Health Organisation (WHO). PIG was computed based on considered physicochemical parameters and WHO drinking standards to ascertain the degree of pollution level. PIG results inferred that about 6% samples fall in moderate, 12% in low and 82% in insignificant pollution in PRM season; while, 12% of sample fall within low, 88% insignificant pollution in POM season. HRA was carried to know the health impacts of boron and fluoride toxicity on infants, children and adults. HRA results suggest that children are more susceptible to non carcinogenic health risk than infants and adults. Chemometric analysis included correlation matrix (CM), principal component analysis (PCA) and cluster analysis (CA) to know the relationship between water quality variables and their collective influence on overall groundwater quality. CM and PCA suggested that, inputs of TDS, Mg, NO3, Na, Cl, and SO4 are elevated due to rainfall and anthropogenic activities. These techniques are useful to evaluate the influence of seasonal variation of natural or anthropogenic processes controlling the groundwater quality in the study region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Torque teno sus viruses (TTSuVs) have never been implicated in direct causation of any disease; however, their role as cofactors in precipitation of certain disease conditions is gaining some support. Considering the spurt in the number of outbreaks of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS), porcine circovirus 2 (PCV2) infections and classical swine fever (CSF) in India, we have investigated the extent of association of TTSuVs with the above said viruses by PCR. The TTsuVs were detected in 53% and 26.22% of CSFV-PRRSV-PCV-positive and apparently healthy negative tissue samples respectively. In serum, these were detected respectively in 29.60% and 21.42 % of CSFV-PRRSVinfected and apparently samples. The results obtained for the tissue samples is in concurrence with the observations of previous studies which reported higher prevalence of TTSuVs in CSFV-PRRSV-PCV-positive clinical specimens as compared to the healthy ones. This is the first report of co-infection of TTSuVs with CSFV, PRRSV and PCV from India. Future works are needed to establish pathogenic role of TTSuVs through experimental studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is considered as the most potent member of multidrug-resistant (MDR) and extremely resistant (XDR) gram-negative pathogens ('ESCAPE' group) emerged throughout the world with the property to 'escape' the treatment with antibiotics. Biofilm formation is a significant virulence property of P. aeruginosa generating not only antibiotic resistance, but also it acting as a constant source of infection in the host and it can prevent host defence such as chemotaxis of polynuclear immune cells. There is paucity of scientific literatures regarding characterization of biofilm producing P. aeruginosa isolated from livestock and birds. A total of 200 rectal swabs were collected from pigs (n=100) and chickens (n=100) from Mizoram state of India. All the specimens were processed of isolation and identification of P. aeruginosa, which were further confirmed by 16S rRNA PCR and Phoenix bacterial identification system. All the isolates were subjected to detection of biofilm producing ability by microtiter plate assay, antimicrobial sensitivity by disc diffusion assay and detection of selected biofilm producing genes as well as selected beta lactamase genes by specific PCR assay. A total of 11 P. aeruginosa were isolated from pigs (n=6) and chickens (n=5). All the isolates were recorded as positive for biofilm production by microtiter plate assay and were positive for at least one biofilm associated genes. A total of 8 isolates were positive for blaTEM gene and one isolates was positive for blaCTX-M gene. This is probably the unique report on isolation of P. aeruginosa from animals carrying both beta lactamase as well as biofilm producing genes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salmonella has emerged as one of the most important food-borne pathogens for humans as well as animals and the ability of biofilm formation by these bacteria has further aided their survival in unfavorable environment. Characterization of these biofilm producing bacteria isolated from pigs and chicken may lead to formulation of strategies for prevention and control of Salmonella infections. Therefore, the present study was conducted to isolate Salmonella from pigs and poultry of Mizoram, determine their biofilm producing ability by phenotypic and genotypic methods along with their virulence and antimicrobial resistance properties. A total of 15 Salmonella spp. (pig=9, poultry=6) was isolated from 100 faecal samples from pigs and 50 cloacal swabs from poultry and biofilm producing ability of the isolates was determined by microtiter plate assay. A total of 10 (66.67%) isolates were found to be biofilm producer. All the biofilm producing bacterial isolates were investigated for antimicrobial sensitivity and distribution of selected biofilm associated genes (csgA, csgD and adrA), virulence genes (invA, stn and sefA) and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) genes (blaTEM, blaSHV and blaCTX-M). The most prevalent resistance was found against ceftazidime (80%), ceftriaxone (80%), cefixime (70%), cefotaxime (70%), gentamicin (70%), cotrimoxazole (60%) and ampicillin (60%). A total of 7 (70%) isolates were resistant to at least three different classes of antimicrobial agents and considered as multidrug resistant. All the isolates were positive for adrA (100%) but negative for csgA and csgD genes. The most frequent virulence gene was invA (100%) and stn (100%). Among the AMR genes, blaTEM (60%) was found to be the major AMR determinants. Moreover, a total of 7 Salmonella isolates were positive for at least one of t biofilm associated genes, virulence genes and AMR genes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study was to determine copro-prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites and their associated potential risk factors in pigs of Punjab (India). A total of 839 faecal samples were collected from pigs of all age group and sex from different agro-climatic zones of Punjab covering all seasons and subjected to qualitative and quantitative examination. Among the samples examined, 28.4 % were positive for gastrointestinal parasites and their respective prevalences were Ascaris suum (11.1 %), coccidia (9.41 %), Trichuris suis (6.43 %), Balantidium coli (4.5 %), amphistome (3.33 %), strongyle (2.14 %) and Ascarops strongylina (1.78 %). Upon sporulation of coccidian positive samples, 8 species of Eimeria were recorded (Eimeria polita, E. spinosa, E. scabra, E. perminuta, E. suis, E. debliecki, E. neodebliecki and E. porci). Among the various risk factors analysed, season, agro-climatic zones and managemental practices had a signifi cant (p<0.05) effect on gastrointestinal parasitism of pigs. Quantification of the infection levels in various seasons and age groups revealed the highest mean egg per gram in rainy season (1966. 6± 1146.5) and grower pigs (1457.1 ± 500.4). Coproculture analysis revealed the presence of larvae of Hyostrongylus rubidus and Oesophagostomum species. The results of the current study would be of immense help in formulation and implementation of control strategies for effective control of gastrointestinal parasitism in pigs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• WGS identified multidrug resistant Enterobacteriaceae in piggery waste. • Identified the last resort antibiotic resistant genes carrying bacterial plasmids. • Beta lactam resistant gene-specific PCR was used to validate the ARGs. The growing use of antibiotics in livestock is one of the main causes of the rapid global spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). However, extensive research on AMR in animals is currently absent. In this article, we provide the bacterial antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) from piggery waste samples in West Bengal, India, based on whole genome sequencing (WGS). According to the study, there are alarmingly high levels of Enterobacteriaceae in piggery waste, especially slaughterhouse waste, that are resistant to beta-lactam, aminoglycoside, sulphonamide, and tetracycline. We found several plasmids carrying multidrug-resistant Enterobacteriaceae including resistant to last-resort medications like colistin and carbapenems. Our findings will serve as a guide for developing AMR management policies for livestock in India and aid in understanding the current AMR profiles of pigs. To grasp the actual situation with AMR in the pig sector, large scale sample screening must be done. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present investigation focuses on examining the clinical, histopathological, and ultrastructural changes that occurred in pig, during an outbreak of African swine fever (ASF) in 2022 in Assam, India. The disease initially manifested as a per-acute case with high mortality but without any evident clinical signs. Subsequently, some animals exhibited an acute form of the disease characterized by high fever (104–106 °F), anorexia, vomiting, respiratory distress, and bleeding from the anal and nasal orifices. During acute African swine fever virus (ASFV) infections, elevated levels of pro-inflammatory IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-6, TNF, CCL2, CCL5, and CXCL10 were detected in the palatine tonsil, lymph nodes, spleen, and kidney using qPCR assay. These molecular changes were associated with haemorrhages, edemas, and lymphoid depletion. Postmortem examinations revealed prominent features such as splenomegaly with haemorrhages, haemorrhagic lymphadenitis, severe petechial haemorrhage in the kidney, pneumonia in the lungs, and necrotic palatine tonsil. Histopathological analysis demonstrated lymphocyte depletion in lymphoid organs, multi-organ haemorrhages, and interstitial pneumonia in the lungs. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) further confirmed lymphocyte depletion in lymphoid organs through lymphocyte apoptosis and kidney damage with distorted tubules due to red blood cell destruction. Transmission electron microscopy reaffirmed lymphocyte apoptosis by observing chromatin condensation and nucleus margination in lymphocytes of lymphoid organs. These findings provide comprehensive insights into the clinical, histopathological, and ultrastructural aspects of ASF outbreak in pigs. Understanding the pathological changes associated with ASF can contribute to improved diagnosis, prevention, and control measures for this highly contagious and economically devastating viral disease. • The study delved into clinical, histopathological, and ultrastructural shifts during an ASF outbreak in Assam, India in 2022. • ASF initially presented as a per-acute case with high mortality and no evident clinical signs. • Elevated pro-inflammatory cytokine linked to haemorrhages, edemas, and lymphoid depletion. • Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) confirmed lymphocyte depletion and kidney damage. • Postmortem features in ASF: Splenomegaly, lymphadenitis, kidney petechial haemorrhage, pneumonia, and necrotic tonsil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Keywords: ASF; economic consequences; pig EN ASF economic consequences pig 3009 3011 3 11/23/21 20211101 NES 211101 African Swine Fever (ASF) was first described 100 years ago (Penrith et al., 2021). Although the exact numbers of pigs that died in India due to ASF are not known, based on official and media reports, about 54,150 pigs have died up to July 2021. Recently, many of the NE states have imported exotic breeds of pigs from other countries, as a part of policy intervention planned before the ASF outbreak to introduce fresh swine germplasm. [Extracted from the article]

Swinepox is a sporadic virus disease of domestic and wild pigs that mainly occurs during the rainy season. Though the disease is known for a century, research on swinepox especially genetic characterization is scanty. Self-limiting nature of the disease, the non-availability of specific diagnostics as well as the resemblance of clinical signs with other pathogens are some of the issues in the slow progress in swinepox-related research. Recent whole genome sequencing data from the USA, India, and Germany enhanced our understanding of the biology of swinepox virus (SWPV). The objective of the present study is to investigate the molecular epidemiology of two swinepox outbreaks that occurred in 2015 and 2016 one each in Uttar Pradesh, and the Haryana states of India. The appearance of clinical signs in different swine breeds was recorded. The scab samples from infected pigs were collected, DNA extracted, host range genes of SWPV were PCR amplified, sequenced and analyzed for genetic and phylogenetic characterization. Desi (nondescript breed), Yorkshire White pigs, and Landrace cross were found to be infected with SWPV. Host range genes of SWPV analyzed from clinical samples showed very high nucleotide identity with each other. Phylogenetic analyses revealed that SWPVs circulating in India are distinct (Indian lineage) from the SWPV of the USA, Germany, and Russia (European-North American lineage). Our study affirms the existence of two distinct lineages of SWPV globally with differences in clinical lesions between breeds.

Due to aging infrastructure & hostile operating environment, the pipelines in oil industry also faces the all-time threat of corrosion & erosion affecting leakage in the pipelines, causing emergency plant shutdown triggering huge economical, infrastructure and sometimes human loss and also makes the refinery inoperable for least 7 days. The inspection, cleaning and monitoring techniques for critical components of oil pipelines is based on robotics. India ranks second in Asia for its overall oil reserve but to meet the rising demands of oil, India is the fifth largest importer of crude oil in the world. Cross country pipelines are a safest, economical and most eco-friendly method of transportation of crude oil imported to India, flowing from offshore to a petrochemical plant. These pipelines are the arteries and veins of the fuel industry, similar to natural one in these artificial arteries the crude oil is continuously flowing in deeply buried cross-country pipelines containing slug and wax which get deposited within the pipeline creating a blockage and the situation gets even worse due to the presence of corrosion & erosion because of their. In this research, we have focused on details of a pipe inspection gauge robot which can be used for cleaning and leakage detection of cross-country pipelines which runs with the current of crude oil within the buried pipelines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nipah virus, a paramyxovirus related to Hendra virus. Nipah virus first emerged in Malaysia, outbreak continue to occur in Bangladesh and India. In Malaysia-Singapore outbreak transmission occurred primarily through contact with pig. While in Bangladesh and India it is related with ingestion of contaminated date palm sap and human-to-human transmission. Bats are main reservoir for Nipah virus which can cause disease in human and animal. Nipah virus replication well in porcine stable kidney cell and human lung fibroblast cell. Nipah virus is probably spread through cell-to-cell spread mechanism. The Nipah virus has the potential to be considered an agent of bioterrorism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is a highly contagious and globally significant viral disease principally of cloven-hoofed livestock species. The present study describes the results of molecular epidemiologic investigation of FMD in pigs across various states of India between 2008 and 2014. During this period, a total of 37 clinical epithelial samples (vesicle/foot/snout epithelium) of FMD-suspected pigs were tested in a serotype differentiating antigen detection ELISA and samples found negative were further subjected to multiplex reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (mRT-PCR). A total of 29 (78.37%) samples were found positive for serotype O in antigen detection ELISA and 8 ELISA-negative samples were subsequently found positive for serotype O in mRT-PCR. The VP1 region-based phylogenetic analysis demonstrated the involvement of O/ME-SA/Ind2001 lineage in the outbreaks. The pig isolates clustered with the contemporary virus isolates collected from bovine indicating a close genetic relationship and therefore signifying inter-species transmission during the outbreaks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To examine the drinking water suitability as well as to study the influence of local lithology in controlling groundwater chemistry a study has been carried out in the Jammu plains of India by using 50 groundwater samples during the post-monsoon (POM) and pre-monsoon (PRM) seasons. The groundwater samples are found to be dominated by Mg–Ca–HCO 3 , and Ca–Mg–HCO 3, types. Besides this, the Pollution Index of Groundwater (PIG) was also calculated to assess the overall groundwater quality of the study area. As per the PIG, the groundwater quality of the study is suitable for domestic utilization except for a few samples (2%) which need conventional treatment in order to make the groundwater resources potable. Based on rock water interaction, there is a considerable variation in the POM and PRM seasons, which indicates the role of weathering and dissolution of rock minerals. The multivariate statistical analysis reveals that the lithogenic factors, such as rock-water interactions and weathering of carbonate-bearing rocks, are predominantly controlling groundwater chemistry. Further, trace elements such as As, Cu, Cd, Fe, Mn, and Zn were also analyzed to determine the Human Health Risk Assessment (HHRA) in order to know about the carcinogenic risk in adults and children in the study area. [Display omitted] • To evaluate the suitability of groundwater for drinking purposes. • To determine the PIG for understanding the impact of chemical parameters. • Evaluation of HHRA by using the trace elements in order to know the Carcinogenic Risk. • Multivariate statistical analysis reveals to find the lithogenic factors. • Spatial mapping of the groundwater quality maps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The seasonal quality of groundwater and its appropriateness for drinking and irrigation were assessed using a multiple indexing approach in this study. Physicochemical and ionic parameters were examined in groundwater samples near the industrial zone of Rupnagar, Punjab. To assess groundwater quality, water quality index (WQI) and pollution index were used. The Durov's, piper, wilcox and stiff diagrams were plotted to understand the hydro-chemistry. Similarly, the irrigation indices, i.e., salinity hazard, sodium adsorption ratio, soluble sodium percentage (Na%), magnesium adsorption ratio, residual sodium carbonate, permeability index and Kelley's ratio were applied to ascertain the water quality for agricultural purposes. As a result, total hardness, calcium (Ca 2+ ), magnesium (Mg 2+ ) and fluoride (F - ) were found above the standard permissible limits. WQI analysis showed 12% samples of pre-monsoon (PRE-M) and 28% samples of post-monsoon (POS-M) were of poor quality, which may pose health risks. Hydrochemistry revealed the predominance of Ca 2+ , Na + , Mg 2+ and HCO 3 - ions in the groundwater attributed to natural and anthropogenic sources. Piper diagram revealed Ca 2+ -Mg 2+ -Cl - , Na + -Cl - , Ca 2+ -Na + - HCO 3 - , Ca 2+ - HCO 3 - and Ca 2+ -Cl, Ca 2+ -HCO 3 - water types exist in the study area. USSL diagram showed that the samples from both seasons come under the low salinity hazard. In addition, total dissolved solids and electrical conductivity showed a strong positive association, indicating the saline nature of groundwater. Furthermore, hierarchical clustering classified groundwater into three groups (I, II and III), revealing that groundwater quality varies due to natural and anthropogenic effects. Based on the findings, the groundwater was found marginally suitable for drinking and irrigation purposes. It is therefore recommended that the groundwater is examined on a regular basis in order to maintain its quality., (© 2022. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature B.V.)

The study was undertaken to investigate the occurrence and to characterize the ESBL/beta-lactamase producing- Escherichia coli in healthy pigs of organized and backyard farms in West Bengal, India. Total 200 rectal swabs were collected randomly from healthy pigs maintained in four organized farms and 10 backyard farms (n = 100 each) and 76 isolates were identified as E. coli from organized (48/100, 48%) and backyard pigs (28/100, 28%). Twelve E. coli isolates (6%) in the present study were detected to possess any of the ESBL/beta-lactamase genes studied. ESBL/beta-lactamase producers were isolated with significantly more frequency from backyard pigs than the organized farm pigs (p = 0.026). Six of ESBL/beta-lactamase producing isolates were phenotypically confirmed as CTX-M producers and ten of them were confirmed as TEM/SHV producers. PCR and sequencing of the amplified product from representative isolates revealed the presence of bla CTX-M-9 , bla SHV-12 and bla TEM-1 . No unique combination of the studied beta lactamase genes for organized and backyard farm pig isolates was noted. The ESBL isolates belonged to O13, O55, O133, O153, O157, O158, O166, rough and OUT serogroups. The association of heat labile toxin ( elt ) (p < 0.0005) with organized farm isolates and heat stable toxin ( estA ) (p = 0.0143) with backyard piggery sector was significantly higher. The ESBL/beta-lactamase producers from organized farm (Ak/Ex) and indigenous pigs (Ak/Ex/Te; Ak/CoT/G) showed a characteristic phenotypical antibiotic resistance pattern. Two pairs of isolates from organized and backyard farm pigs showed clonal relationship indicating a possible transmission between the farms which were situated adjacently. Thus the present study revealed backyard farm pigs as major source of ESBL/beta-lactamase producing- E. coli associated with STa and characteristic antibiotic resistance pattern in India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV-2) is of great economic significance to porcine industry worldwide. PCV-2 variants and genotypes, alternating world over, are the etiological agent of several clinical syndromes such as porcine dermatitis and nephropathy syndrome (PDNS), post-weaning multi-systemic wasting syndrome (PMWS) and others in pigs. This study is reporting an atypical manifestation of PDNS in twelve grower pigs, 3- to - 4.5 months age and either sex, died of the disease, with predominant lesions of nephropathy and no obvious clinical lesions in skin. Necropsy examination of pigs showed lesions of petechial -to- ecchymotic hemorrhages in the kidneys and in the right auricular musculature of the hearts. Microscopic lesions in H & E sections of the kidneys showed acute glomerulonephritis, interstitial nephritis, and vasculitis, but the skin morphology and architecture remained unaltered in contrast to the pathognomonic lesions of PDNS described in the literature. Other syndromic associations of PDNS in these cases included-perimyocarditis, interstitial pneumonia, depleted lymphoid tissues, tonsillitis, enteritis, and meningo-encephalitis. The lesional sites in duplicate paraffin tissue sections of kidneys, heart, lungs, spleen, lymph nodes, intestine, and brain demonstrated PCV-2 antigen in the cytoplasm of cells as highlighted by the intense immunolabeling on IHC staining. The PCV-2 positive organs reconfirmed by PCR, targeting ORF2 gene, which yielded 481bp size of products. The sequencing results of 481bp products on phylogenetic analysis showed 94% similarity with that of PCV-2 sequences in the database that grouped into PCV2d-2 genotype. The present report confirms, probably for the first time, the atypical PDNS cases due to PCV2d-2 genotype in naturally affected grower pigs of India. • The study describes the mortality in grower pigs due to an atypical form of porcine dermatitis and nephropathy syndrome (PDNS). • Erythematous lesions of varying intensity were noted in kidneys and the heart, but not in the skin of the pigs. • The microscopic lesions of diffuse, necrotizing granulomatous glomerulonephritis. and similar types of necrotizing inflammatory lesions in other organs were noted. • Strong immunolabeling of PCV-2 antigen at the sites of histopathological lesions confirmed the association of PCV-2 with PDNS. • Phylogenetic analysis revealed the PCV2d-2 genotype. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was carried out to analyse the pig husbandry practices in semi-arid region of Tamil Nadu. The study revealed that, 95.00 per cent of farmers reared the pigs in shed covered with asbestos sheet (53.83 per cent) followed by thatches (34.64 per cent) on concrete flooring (92.28 per cent). The majority of the farmers (76.92 per cent) maintaining Large White Yorkshire pigs and followed natural service using boars. The farmers followed stall feeding and 50 % of the farmers fed swill feeding along with poultry offal waste with small quantity of own mix concentrate feed. Majority of the farmers (50 %) vaccinated their pigs against both swine fever and FMD and 19.23 per cent of the farmers did not give any vaccination. 61.54 % farmers followed deworming using allopathic medicine. Similarly, only 65 per cent of the farmers protected their piglets against piglet anemia with iron injection and 32.5 % of them used ectoparasitic drugs in their farms. The farmers followed weaning at 2 months of age and castration of male piglets at 2 to 3 weeks of age. Pigs were marketed at 8 to 9 months of age when they attained the body weight of 90 to 100 kg at the rate of Rs.90 to 95 per kg live weight. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the influence of season on erythrocyte picture, plasma enzyme and electrolyte profile of local pig of Mizoram at a different age. Materials and Methods: A volume of 2 ml of blood samples were collected from 72 Zovawk pigs of three different age groups viz. pre-weaning, grower and adult pigs reared in College of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry Selesih, Aizawl, Mizoram, India, livestock farm during summer and winter in order to find out influence of season on erythrocyte picture, enzyme and electrolyte profile. The hematological parameters were estimated by using an automatic blood analyzer. The biochemical parameters were estimated by using diagnostic kits. Results: The grower pigs had lower hemoglobin (Hb), packed cell volume (PCV), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular Hb (MCH) during summer, rainy and winter seasons (p<0.05) and lower MCH concentration (MCHC) during summer season (p<0.05). Adult pigs had lower Hb with higher total erythrocyte count in rainy season. PCV and MCV of adult pigs decreased in summer (p<0.05). Serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase activity of both the grower and adult groups increased during summer and rainy seasons (p<0.05). Zovawk pigs had higher sodium (Na) and lower potassium (K) in rainy season (p<0.05). Pre-weaning piglets had higher Na, K, calcium (Ca), and magnesium (Mg) in summer than in winter. Grower pigs had higher Na, K and Ca in summer (p<0.05). Pi of pre-weaning and grower groups was higher in winter. Adult pigs had lower alkaline phosphatase activity and Ca in summer and higher Pi and Mg in winter (p<0.05). Conclusion: Seasonal variation in some hemato-biochemical parameters of Zovawk pig were investigated. Influence of season on the hemato-biochemical profile was most evident during the grower stage, followed by adults and pre-weaning piglets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was conducted for objective evaluation of the pig rearing farmers of north east India as breeder. Preliminary survey of persons engaged in pork production and processing were made, and reproductive tracts of slaughtered animals were collected from organized (ORG-) and unorganized (UNORG-) slaughter houses in and around Guwahati for assessing their reproductive status through morphometric examination and maturation potential of oocytes. The survey revealed that male pigs, sourced from organized farms, were mostly slaughtered at 8-12 months of age, whereas female pigs were slaughtered after third or fourth farrowing, at ORG-slaughter houses. Pigs slaughtered at UNORG-slaughter houses were mostly sourced from primary producers and household enterprises, and stage of reproductive life was not an important factor influencing the decision to selling. Organometry of female genital organs showed higher values (P<0.05) for pigs slaughtered in ORGslaughter houses. Further, higher numbers (P<0.05) of corpus luteum were found in ORG-ovaries. However, higher number (P<0.05) of surface follicles, in-vitro matureable oocytes and in-vitro matured oocytes were found in UNORG-ovaries. The results of present study suggest that female pigs of unorganized production system are more likely to be sold and slaughtered before realizing their (re)production potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we analyzed DNA sequence of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) control regions on the 130 native domestic pigs and eight wild boars in the mainland South and South-east Asian countries including Bhutan, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam. Forty-four haplotypes were found in the 138 individuals, 41 were in the domestic and four were in wild boars. Only one haplotype was shared by domestic and wild population in Bhutan. In other cases, mtDNA of wild boars did not show close affinity to that of the domestic pigs in the same location, indicating that the native domestic pigs in these countries did not originate in the present habitat. Phylogenetic analyzes of mtDNA haplotypes recapitulated several major clusters identified in other studies, but 11 haplotypes were grouped in a new cluster we named MTSEA. In most cases, more than one lineage group were present in a sampling station, indicating that the present indigenous domestic pigs may have multiple origins. The MTSEA haplotypes were present in relatively high frequencies in domestic pigs in the mountainous area of mainland South-east Asia (Cambodia and Laos), with a few found in Myanmar and Bhutan. The distributions of MTSEA haplotypes are in great conformity with the distribution of present-day Mon-Khmer language and indicated the existence of yet another independent domestication. The D2 haplotypes that distribute high frequency (almost 100%) throughout the Chinese breeds were dominant in Bhutan, Myanmar, and Vietnam. These results suggest an existence of human-mediated dispersal of domestic pigs from north to the south during the historical expansion of Sino-Tibetan and Tai peoples. The D3 haplotypes previously reported in north India were found in sympatric domestic and wild pigs in Bhutan. The D3 haplotype is an important proof of independent domestication event and/or great gene flow between wild and domestic pigs in the foot of Himalaya. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & objectives: The suitability of pig as an animal model for research in coronary artery disease is well established. As coronary arteries (CAs) of the pig are reportedly closely resemble those of man. We investigated the CAs of the pig (Sus scrofa) and study differences between the two, if any. Methods: The origin and pattern of the coronary arteries were studied in the hearts of 30 fully grown pigs obtained from a slaughter house in Chandigarh (India). The openings of the CAs were identified at the commencement of the ascending aorta. The arteries were washed with acetone by introducing appropriate sized cannulae in their ostia. A 20 per cent solution of cellulose acetate butyrate (CAB), a plastic material, dissolved in acetone was injected in the CAs. The hearts were fixed in 10 per cent formalin solution for three to four days after which the CAs and their branches were dissected. Results: Both coronary arteries arose from the aortic sinuses below the supravalvular ridge in all the cases. Sinuatrial nodal artery (SAN) arose from the RCA in 70 per cent and from the circumflex artery (CX) in 30 per cent of instances. There was RCA dominance in all hearts of the pig. The atrioventricular nodal artery (AVN) and the posterior interventricular artery (PIV) were branches of RCA. The coronary arterial circulation in the pig was found to be similar to that in human. Interpretation & conclusions: By and large the coronary arterial pattern of the pig was similar in that of the humans. We can conclude that the heart of a pig can be used for experiments but differences have to be kept in mind. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Classical swine fever (CSF) is a highly contagious dreadful disease of pigs leading to 100% mortality in acute form in susceptible population thereby causing huge economic loss to pig farmers. This study was undertaken to assess the seroprevalence of CSF at national level. A two-stage random sampling methodology was adopted that included 271 villages from 115 districts of India. A total of 5848 pig serum samples from twenty-five states and one Union Territory of India were collected during 2018-2019. A percent positivity of 38.52 was found at national level. Puducherry and Sikkim showed the highest and lowest percent positivity respectively. Pigs from the west zone showed the highest seroprevalence of 55.83% and those from the south zone showed the lowest of 30.25%. Adult pigs in the north and east zones showed highest percent positivity of 81.8, whereas pigs of more than 3 years of age showed highest percent positivity of 54.9, 75 and 62.5 in the north east, west and central zones respectively. Young ones showed percent positivity of 41.5 in the south zone. Higher rainfall (> 3 mm/day) and lower temperature (< 26 °C) favoured the existence of disease in the north east region combined with high density of pig population. Amidst no fool proof alert system, seroprevalence is the best method to assess the status of CSF in herd/population that provides the policymakers to plan for control of disease.

Background Porcine cysticercosis is acquired by pigs through consumption of human faeces containing Taenia solium ova and indicates the presence of active transmission of the parasite between pigs and humans. Methods The prevalence of porcine cysticercosis was assessed by an antigen ELISA and enzyme linked immunoelectrotransfer blot (EITB) for antibodies in rural and urban areas of southern India. Results Of the 112 porcine blood samples, 13 (11.6%) were positive for cysticercal antigens and the free-range pigs were 3.6 times more likely to be infected than the slaughtered pigs and 67 (59.8 %) tested positive for serum antibodies indicating high exposure to T. solium eggs. Conclusion The high prevalence of porcine cysticercosis recorded in the study areas mandates public health measures, which includes meat inspection. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The average treatment estimation framework was used to estimate the actual and potential adoption rates of artificial insemination technology in pig and their determinants using responses of 390 randomly selected pig farmers. The sample adoption rate of artificial insemination technology in pig is estimated to be 16% while the potential adoption rate is estimated at 47%. Incomplete diffusion or exposure of the technology in the population has lead to significant adoption gap of 31%. Result of the average treatment estimation probit model for determinants of adoption revealed the existence of significant difference in the coefficients and magnitude of marginal effects compared to the classic adoption model. Results showed that variables such as age of household head, piggery farming experience, maximum number of pigs reared in a year during the last 5 years, number of breeding sows, distance to artificial insemination provider centre, access to extension services and participation in training and demonstration programmes on pig were the significant determinants for adoption of artificial insemination technology in small-scale pig production system.

Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) comes under the family Flaviviridae and genus flavivirus. Pigs act as reservoir and amplifying intermediate host for JEV. The current investigation was conducted to understand the prevalence of JEV infection in pigs in three different geographical sites in India (Odisha, Assam and Manipur). Total 857 serum samples were tested by ELISA and RT-PCR, while only RT-PCR was performed in case of 275 tonsils tissues for detection of JEV. It was observed that JEV prevalence was highest in Manipur (positive 39, 25.5% in serum and 10% in tonsil) but lower in Assam (positive 15, 3.8% in serum and 0% in tonsils) and Odisha (positive 7, 1.5% in serum and 3.7% in tonsils). Genotype III (GIII) of JEV was the dominant genotype. Further, analysis of E gene revealed sporadic mutations of S83G, H76P, E78Q, C55S, and S64W along with two consistent mutations V46S and V51I in GIII. Whereas, a single mutation S118N was observed in the GI strain. In conclusion, the high JE virus infection rate of pig in the current locations suggests the need for continuous surveillance of this virus in pigs which will ultimately help to adopt an effective control strategy to prevent the spread of JE infection to human., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest None., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

The concentrations of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), and their hydroxylated metabolites (OH-PCBs and OH-PBDEs) were measured in the blood of Eurasian wild pigs (Sus scrofa) from a municipal waste open dumping site (DS) and a reference site (RS) in South India. We showed that contamination with OH-PCBs was higher in female pigs from the DS than in all other adult pigs. The highest OH-PCB concentrations were found in piglets from the DS. Moreover, the hepatic expression levels of CYP1A and CYP2B were higher in piglets than in their dam, implying metabolism of PCBs by cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes. The OH-PCB congener profiles differed according to sex and collection sites, possibly because of variations in the expression levels of phase I and phase II enzymes among individual pigs, differences in the exposure sources, and maternal transfer of parent PCBs. The hepatic CYP1A expression levels were positively correlated with the blood concentrations of 4OH-CB107, 4OH-CB162, and 4OH-CB187, implying CYP1A-dependent formation of these OH-PCBs in the pig liver. We found no significant correlations between the blood concentrations of OH-PCBs and thyroid hormones (THs); however, the thyroxin (T4) levels were lower in pigs from the DS than in pigs from the RS. Our limited dataset suggest that induced CYP enzymes accelerate the metabolism of xenobiotics and endogenous molecules in pigs. Thus, besides parental compounds, the risk of hydroxylated metabolites entering wildlife and humans living in and around municipal open waste dumping sites should be considered., (Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) is an economically important viral disease of pigs worldwide. India has reported the first outbreak of PRRS in the pig population of Mizoram state to the Office International des Epizooties on the 26 June 2013., Hypothesis/objectives: The aim of the present study was to determine the genotype and origin of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) from the first outbreak in the pig population of Mizoram state, India, in 2013., Animals and Methods: A total of 880 affected pigs from the outbreak were clinically examined, 51 animals were necropsied and tested by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) to detect PRRSV and 148 serum samples were tested to detect PRRSV-specific antibodies. The full open reading frame 5 (ORF5) gene sequences from 12 and ORF7 gene sequences from three clinical cases were sequenced and analysed for genomic characterization, respectively., Results: The outbreak was confirmed by the detection of PRRSV-specific antibodies in 109 out of 148 serum samples (74%) and also by RT-PCR in 46 out of 51 necropsy samples (90%). Notably, ORF5 and ORF7 genes of Indian strain shares the same nucleotide positions i.e. 13,698-14,300 and 14,799-15,170, respectively, with the highly pathogenic (HP) strain of China and were grouped together in a phylogenetic tree., Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Sequence and phylogenetic analysis of ORF5 and ORF7 confirmed that the Indian strain has a close link with the HP-PRRSV of China. The current study forms an essential step for better understanding of the epidemiology as well as the movement and spread of the disease in India.