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Over the years, there has been an ongoing search for the control and management of Peste des petits ruminants (PPR), an OIE listed disease. A lot has been elucidated on its epidemiology, clinical manifestations and pathologic findings, but none on the oxidative stress pattern in affected animals. Most oxidative stress studies have focused on chronic conditions, while PPR is an acute/subacute disease. This study investigated the stage by stage serum level of biomarkers of oxidative stress during the clinical manifestation of Peste des petits ruminants in goats under natural infection. Twenty unvaccinated male goats naturally exposed to PPR virus were used for this study. Following the manifestation of clinical signs, the goats were grouped, according to the severity of clinical manifestations, into pre-clinical (group I), early-clinical (group II), mid-clinical (group III) and terminal (group IV). Serum biomarkers investigated include superoxide dismutase, malondialdehyde and catalase. The neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and other serum electrolytes were also used as biomarkers for evaluating physiologic stress in affected animals. Results showed serum catalase significantly increased at the mid and terminal stages of PPR, while serum malondialdehyde significantly increased at the terminal stage. The NLR and the Ca/P ratios were also significantly increased in all clinically affected animals. Oxidative stress in PPR depends on the stage of clinical manifestations, with serum catalase and malondialdehyde being better biomarkers than superoxide dismutase in naturally infected goats. Also, NLR and serum Ca/P are good indices for monitoring systemic/physiologic stress in goats affected by PPR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global eradication of peste des petits ruminants (PPR) is planned for 2030 by international animal health organizations in collaboration with national partners. As the deadline approaches, it is fundamental that the PPR status in each country is determined. In addition, the identification of other pathogens of small ruminants that share common geographical locations and can produce similar clinical signs is also important for differential diagnosis. With this in mind, 37 samples collected from goats and sheep presenting respiratory symptoms in Mauritania in 2023 were screened for the presence of PPR virus, Capripoxvirus, Pasteurella multocida and Mycoplasma capricolum subspecies capripneumoniae (Mccp) using a one-step multiplex RT-qPCR assay. None of the samples were positive for Capripoxvirus or P. multocida. Nine of them were positive for PPRV and sequence analysis of a segment of the PPRV nucleoprotein revealed that they belonged to lineage IV and were similar to viruses recently identified in Côte D'Ivoire, Guinea, and Niger indicating transboundary movement. The full genome of one representative virus was also generated. Mccp was identified in eight samples and multi-locus sequence analysis (MLSA) identified them as belonging to MLSA Group 3 together with Mccps identified in China, Tajikistan, Turkey and the United Arab Emirates. This is the first time that such a study has been undertaken in Mauritania and the data generated should be of interest to those involved in the management of goat diseases in Mauritania and neighbouring countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Peste des petits ruminants (PPR) is a viral disease that affects domestic and wild small ruminants and camels in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. Following the successful eradication of rinderpest, the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) have undertaken to eradicate PPR by 2030. Regular surveillance and monitoring of the disease in various regions of Ethiopia are crucial to achieving this goal. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of PPR, assess community awareness of PPR infection, and examine the associated risk factors of the disease in selected districts of the Central Oromia Region, Ethiopia. Method: The study collected 384 serum samples from 73 flocks containing 217 sheep and 167 goats using a multi-stage sampling technique. A competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (c-ELISA) was used to detect antibodies against the PPR virus. Additionally, a pre-tested questionnaire was used to gather information on community awareness and potential risk factors for PPRV infection in the study area. Results: The study found that the overall prevalence of PPR in flocks was 71.2% [95% confidence interval (CI): 59.4%−81.2%]. The prevalence of PPR at the animal level was 50% (95% CI: 44.9%−55.1%), with sheep having a prevalence of 54.4% (95% CI: 47.0%−60.6%) and goats having a prevalence of 44.3% (95% CI: 36.6%−52.2%). The study also found that districts, flock size, and agroecology were independent predictors of PPRV seropositivity in sheep, whereas districts, origin, and mixed species were independent predictors of PPRV seropositivity in goats. Conclusion: The study revealed a high prevalence of PPR in sheep and goats in the study area. To prevent the spread of the disease, the study suggests quarantining animals before introducing them to districts, regular PPR vaccination, and isolation and molecular characterization of the PPR virus circulating in the study area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peste des petits ruminants (PPR) is a highly contagious disease affecting mainly sheep and goats. Livestock movements contribute to the spread of the disease by introducing it to naive areas or exposing susceptible animals to it in infected regions. Because of its socio-economic impact, the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) have set the goal to eradicate it by 2030, one of the key steps being the improvement of surveillance networks. The present study aimed to provide tools to identify areas that could serve as sentinel nodes, i.e. areas that may be rapidly infected at the onset of epidemics. Using data from a market survey conducted in Northern Nigeria, we reconstructed the small ruminants mobility network and simulated the diffusion of PPR virus through animal movement. From the analysis of simulation outcomes, we investigated which nodes could act as sentinel nodes under specific conditions for disease transmission. We considered several modified networks to get around the problem of data only being available for part of the overall network structure and to account for potential errors made during the field study. For each configuration, we simulated the spread of PPR using a stochastic Susceptible-Infectious (SI) model based on animal movements to assess the epidemics' extent and the presence of recurrent patterns to identify potential sentinel nodes. We extracted the backbone of the reference network and checked for the presence of sentinel nodes within it. We investigated how the origin (seed) of the epidemics could affect the propagation pattern by comparing and grouping seeds based on their respective transmission paths. Results showed that the isolated backbone contains 45% of sentinel nodes that remain stable or undergo only minor changes in 9 out of 11 configurations. On top of that, the characteristics of sentinel nodes identified in the backbone are not influenced by the severity of the disease. The H index, in-degree, and eigenvector are the most essential variables. This study provides an overview of the major axes of animal movements in Nigeria and the most vulnerable locations that should be prioritized for monitoring livestock diseases like PPR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Diseases have a negative impact on production and profitability of small ruminants. A good herd health program can decrease the number of sick animals and improve herd performance. Methods: In a longitudinal study, small ruminant herd health interventions such as community-based strategic gastrointestinal (GI) parasite control, prevention and control of major respiratory diseases and capacity development activities were implemented. In four districts of Ethiopia, where the Community Based Breeding Program (CBBP) is implemented, morbidity and mortality data were collected from January 2018 to July 2021 in 1047 smallholder farms with the objective of evaluating the impact of herd health interventions. A total of 2,643 sick animals and 516 deaths of small ruminants were recorded during the study period. The disease cases were categorized into eight groups: gastrointestinal, neurological, reproductive, respiratory, skin, systemic, other diseases (eye disease, foot disease etc) and unknown diseases. Chi-square and proportions were used to analyze morbidity and mortality by district, agro-ecological zone and age of the animal. Results: The data showed that the general trend in the occurrence of cases and morbidity rate were decreasing from 2018 to 2021 in intervention villages. Overall, the morbidity rate in young animals (7.36%) was highier than in adults (3.49%) and the mortality rate difference between young and adult animals was also statistically significant (p < 0.001). The morbidity and mortality rates varied significantly (p < 0.001) among districts and among agro-ecologies. According to the data, treating and following up of infected animals reduced the mortality rate significantly. The relative risk of death in treated animals after the case reported was 0.135. Generally, the intervention impact analysis revealed that morbidity rate was significantly decreased (p = 0.009) in intervention years (6.31% in 2018 to 3.02% in 2021) and that herd health interventions provide an added value. Conclusion: Generally, herd health intervention had significant impact in reducing the morbidity rates in years and treatment and follow up of sick animals due to early reporting reduced mortality rate significantly. It is recommended that the herd health management should be the core activity under small ruminant production programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Gastrointestinal infection of small ruminants is becoming a real problem due to the resistance against anthelmintic treatment. These parasitic infections are prevalent among grazing ruminants and result in significant economic losses by reduced production. The aim of the study was to evaluate and estimate the total loud of parasitic infection is small ruminants, sheep's and goats from different farms located in Korça district. Methods: This study investigates parasitic infections in sheep and goats across 40 farms situated in Korça district in southeastern Albania. The primary objective is to assess the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites within feces samples from mature sheep and goats. In total, 121 feces samples were meticulously collected. Samples were analysed and processed using the Mini-FLOTAC technique in order to identify eggs and oocysts in each herd. Result: The results of the investigation revealed the presence of Strongyloides papillosus in 45.45% of samples, Ostertagia spp. eggs in 40.9% of samples, Monezia expansa eggs in 27.2% of samples, Dictiocaulus filaria in 22.3% of samples, Nematodirus spathiger eggs in 13.2% of samples, Haemonchus contortus eggs in 13.3%, Cooperia spp. eggs in 9% of samples, Trichostrongylus axei in 9% of samples, Coccidian oocysts in 4.1% of samples and Trichuris ovis in 1.6% of samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study reports the use of Nanotrap® Microbiome A Particles (NMAPs) to capture and concentrate viruses from diluted suspensions to improve their recovery and sensitivity to detection by real-time PCR/RT-PCR (qPCR/RT-qPCR). Five highly infectious animal disease viruses including goatpox virus (GTPV), sheeppox virus (SPPV), lumpy skin disease virus (LSDV), peste des petits ruminants virus (PPRV), and African swine fever virus (ASFV) were used in this study. After capture, the viruses remained viable and recoverable by virus isolation (VI) using susceptible cell lines. To assess efficacy of recovery, the viruses were serially diluted in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) or Eagle's Minimum Essential Medium (EMEM) and then subjected to virus capture using NMAPs. The NMAPs and the captured viruses were clarified on a magnetic stand, reconstituted in PBS or EMEM, and analyzed separately by VI and virus-specific qPCR/RT-qPCR. The PCR results showed up to a 100-fold increase in the sensitivity of detection of the viruses following virus capture compared to the untreated viruses from the same dilutions. Experimental and clinical samples were subjected to virus capture using NMAPs and analyzed by PCR to determine diagnostic sensitivity (DSe) that was comparable (100%) to that determined using untreated (-NMAPs) samples. NMAPs were also used to capture spiked viruses from EDTA whole blood (EWB). Virus capture from EWB was partially blocked, most likely by hemoglobin (HMB), which also binds NMAPs and outcompetes the viruses. The effect of HMB could be removed by either dilution (in PBS) or using HemogloBind™ (Biotech Support Group; Monmouth Junction, NJ, USA), which specifically binds and precipitates HMB. Enhanced recovery and detection of viruses using NMAPs can be applicable to other highly pathogenic animal viruses of agricultural importance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peste des petits ruminants (PPR) is an economically important highly serious transboundary disease that mainly occurs in small ruminants such as sheep and goats. The aim of this study was to identify the probability of risk and and space–time clusters of Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR) in Türkiye. The occurrence of PPR in Türkiye from 2017 to 2019 was investigated in this study using spatial analysis based on geographic information system (GIS). Between these dates, it was determined that 337 outbreaks and 18,467 cases. The highest number of outbreaks were detected in the Central Anatolia region. It was determined that PPR is seen more intensely in sheep compared to goats in Türkiye. In this study, 34 environmental variables (19 bioclimatic, 12 precipitation, altitude and small livestock density variables) were used to explore the environmental influences on PPR outbreak by maximum entropy modeling (Maxent). The clusters of PPR in Türkiye were identified using the retrospective space-time scan data that were computed using the space-time permutation model. A PPR prediction model was created using data on PPR outbreaks combination with environmental variables. Nineteen significant (p < 0.001) space–time clusters were determined. It was discovered that the variables altitude, sheep density, precipitation in june, and average temperature in the warmest season made important contributions to the model and the PPR outbreak may be strongly related with these variables. In this study, PPR in Türkiye has been characterized significantly spatio-temporal and enviromental factors. In this context, the disease pattern and obtained these findings will contribute to policymakers in the prevention and control of the disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Although there are available efficacious PPR vaccines produced using Nigeria 75/1 and Sungri/96 strains for controlling the disease, a challenge arises with the need for maintaining the cold chain during vaccine distribution and delivery since these vaccines are used in tropical areas with hot climatic conditions and are also prone to thermal degradation. This study aimed to evaluate the thermotolerance of various formulations of freeze-dried and reconstituted PPR vaccines with different formulations of stabilizers. The results obtained from this study showed that the reconstituted all PPR vaccines with saline buffer maintained the titre above 102.5 TCID50/dose following a storage in the cold chain (at 4 °C) after 4 h, except the vaccine formulation stabilized with lactalbumin hydrolysate, maltose and gelatine. Moreover, it was noted that PPR vaccine stabilized with a formulation such as lactalbumin hydrolysate and sucrose, trehalose, and Lactose and N-Z Amine complied to the minimum titre of 102.5 TCID50/dose after storage at 40 °C for 5 days. Therefore, the type of stabilizer used to formulate the vaccine freeze-drying process to meet the residual moisture content and the thermotolerance criteria are the keys to maintain the vaccine quality in areas with hot climatic conditions where the cold chain is difficult to maintain. Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR) disease is widely distributed in Africa. Live attenuated PPR vaccines are produced using approved Nigeria 75/1 and Sungri/96 strains by the World Organisation of Animal Health (WOAH) to control the disease. These PPR vaccines are very efficacious; however, the main challenge is the maintaining of the cold chain during vaccine distribution and delivery. This study evaluated the thermotolerance of freeze-dried and reconstituted PPR Nigeria 75/1 vaccines from vaccine manufacturers using eight stabilizer formulations (lactalbumin hydrolysate and sucrose, sucrose and peptone, Weybridge medium, trehalose, Lactose and N-Z Amine, lactalbumin hydrolysate, sucrose and L glutamine, skimmed milk, and lactalbumin hydrolysate, maltose and gelatine). Aliquots of the reconstituted PPR vaccine batches were titrated after 2, 4, and 6 h of storage at 4 °C and 40 °C. The PPR vaccines were also titrated after storage at 40 °C and 45 °C for 3 and 5 days. The results showed that reconstituted PPR vaccine stabilized with lactalbumin hydrolysate–sucrose promoted tolerance at 40 °C for 6 h. It was also noted that all reconstituted PPR vaccine formulations except the formulation stabilized with lactalbumin hydrolysate–maltose–gelatine maintained the titre above a 102.5 TCID50/dose after 4 h of storage at 4 °C. Furthermore, the results showed that the PPR vaccine formulation containing lactalbumin hydrolysate sucrose was as the only one that maintained the titres above 102.5 TCID50/dose after storage at 45 °C for 5 days, with a titre loss of 100.95 TCID50/dose. Therefore, vaccine manufacturers producing PPR vaccines for use in tropical field regions could preferably use lactalbumin hydrolysate–sucrose stabilizer in vaccine formulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pattern recognition receptor (PRR), which drives innate immunity, shields the host against invasive pathogens. Fish and other aquatic species with poorly developed adaptive immunity mostly rely on their innate immunity, regulated by PRRs such as inherited-encoded toll-like receptors (TLRs). The discovery of 21 unique TLR variations in various aquatic animals over the past several years has sparked interest in using TLRs to improve aquatic animal’s immune response and disease resistance. This comprehensive review provides an overview of the latest investigations on the various characteristics of TLRs in aquatic animals. It emphasizes their categorization, insights into 3D architecture, ligand recognition, signaling pathways, TLRs mediated immune responses under biotic and abiotic stressors, and expression variations during several developmental stages. It also highlights the differences among aquatic animals’ TLRs and their mammal counterparts, which signifies the unique roles that TLRs play in aquatic animal’s immune systems. This article summarizes current aquaculture research to enhance our understanding of fish immune systems for effective aquaculture -related disease management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Haemonchus contortus is one of the most common and fatal pathogenic gastrointestinal nematodes of small ruminants causing significant economic losses, particularly in low‐income countries. A cross‐sectional study was carried out in randomly selected small ruminants kept under traditional husbandry systems in the Apac district (now split into Apac and Kwania districts) in northern Uganda to assess the prevalence, intensity, and associated risk factors of H. contortus infection from May 2018 to January 2019. Faecal samples were collected from a total of 768 randomly selected small ruminants (384 sheep and 384 goats) and examined for parasites using the floatation method and coproculture. The overall prevalence of H. contortus in small ruminants was 73.3% (563/768) by faecal egg count and 70.6% (542/768) by coproculture. The mean number of eggs per gram of faeces in small ruminants was 2046 ± 107 and differed significantly across the host animals ranging from 1729 ± 120 (mean ± SE) in goats to 2364 ± 176 in sheep. Significant predictors of infection were the origin of study animals, animal species, breed of animal, age of study animal, faecal consistency, lactation, multispecies grazing, grazing method, and anthelmintic use. The findings of our study provide information on the current status of H. contortus infections in goats and sheep under traditional husbandry systems in Uganda which are critical in designing effective control strategies for the disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR) is a highly contagious viral disease primarily affecting goats and sheep, with clinical manifestations ranging from peracute disease to subclinical infection, particularly in atypical hosts such as cattle. The role of atypical hosts such as cattle to the spread of PPR remains controversial, with conflicting reports in the literature. Despite its worldwide significance, considerable knowledge gaps exist regarding the pathogenesis and clinical progression in both primary and atypical hosts. This study aimed to elucidate the tissue tropism, pathogenesis, virus shedding, clinical progression, and pathology associated with experimental PPR virus infection in indigenous goats and cattle. To this end, 32 animals—16 goats and 16 cattle—were intranasally inoculated with the Ethiopia/Habru/2014 Lineage-IV strain of the PPR virus followed by detailed clinical evaluations and systematic sampling at pre-established intervals to assess serological conversion, viral shedding, and the pathogenesis of the infection across both species. Results: The results show that goats exhibited typical clinical signs 4 days post-inoculation, with seroconversion by day 6 and early detection of viral RNA in swabs and tissues by day 3 and virus isolation starting day 4. In contrast, cattle exhibited minimal clinical signs, with seroconversion occurring at day 8 with viral RNA detected in tissue samples at day 4 and virus isolation starting day 6 in tissues and in a single nasal swab at day 8. Clinical scores and tissue positivity rates significantly differed between goats and cattle (P = 0.007 and P < 0.001, respectively). While goats exhibited expected gross and histopathological lesions, cattle showed only nonspecific lesions. Conclusions: Together, our findings highlight the importance of comparative pathology studies for better understanding virus dynamics and transmission pathways that may help inform more effective PPR control programs. Future research should explore the pathogenesis of different PPRV lineages in cattle, assessing variations in disease progression and potential for epidemiological impact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article explores the use of the rabies virus as a tool for developing vaccines. It discusses the different types of rabies virus-vectored vaccines and their strengths and weaknesses. Live-attenuated vaccines offer long-lasting protection but carry a risk of reversion to virulence, while inactivated vaccines have a good safety profile but may require booster injections. Further research is needed to fully understand and utilize the potential of these vaccines. The document also compiles various scientific studies that demonstrate the efficacy and safety of rabies virus-based vaccines for diseases such as HIV-1, Lassa fever, and SARS-CoV-2. The research suggests that rabies virus vectors have the potential to be effective vaccines for a wide range of infectious diseases. [Extracted from the article]

Background: Peste des petits ruminant (PPR) is a contagious disease caused by the peste des petits ruminants virus (PPRV). The disease poses a significant economic threat to small ruminant production in Ethiopia, particularly to the striving pastoral production system. A cross-sectional study was conducted to estimate the seroprevalence and associated risk factors of PPR in the small ruminants of the Borena Zone. A total of 384 serum samples were collected randomly from sheep and goats and examined for the presence of PPRV antibodies using competition enzyme-linked immune sorbent assay (c-ELISA). Additionally, a retrospective analysis of five years of outbreak data was performed to provide insight into the spatial and temporal distribution of the disease. Results: The seroprevalence of PPRV antibodies in nonvaccinated, vaccinated, and unknown vaccination status of small ruminants in this study was found to be 32.1%, 68.8%, and 45.5%, respectively. Multivariable logistic analysis revealed a statistically significant association between PPRV seropositivity and several factors, including age, animal origin, flock size, and veterinary services status. A retrospective analysis revealed 53 PPR outbreaks in the Borena Zone from 2018 to 2022, exacerbated by low vaccination coverage relative to the at-risk animal population. Conclusion: The study revealed significant gaps in current vaccination efforts, with herd immunity levels falling below the FAO-WOAH recommended threshold of 80%. Despite Ethiopia's ambitious goal to eradicate PPR by 2027, the frequent outbreaks and insufficient herd immunity highlight the inadequacy of the existing strategies. To effectively move toward eradication, Ethiopia must align its approach with the global PPR eradication framework, which emphasizes a comprehensive strategy that includes diagnostics, surveillance, prevention, and the establishment of a robust veterinary regulatory system, rather than relying solely on vaccination. Overcoming logistical challenges, improving vaccination coverage, and optimizing the timing of vaccination campaigns, especially in hard-to-reach areas, will be crucial for reducing outbreaks and making progress toward eradication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Objectives] This study was conducted to establish a rapid quantitative method for detecting antibody against Peste des Petits Ruminants Virus (PPR V) in sheep serum. [Methods] Soluble N protein and NH fusion protein were obtained in Escherichia coli prokaryotic expression system by optimizing codons and expression conditions of E. coli. Furthermore, based on the purified soluble N protein and NH fusion protein, a high-sensitivity fluorescence immunoassay kit for detecting the antibody against PPR V was established. [Results] The method could quickly and quantitatively detect PPR V antibody in sheep serum, with high sensitivity and specificity, without any cross reaction to other related sheep pathogens. The intra-batch and inter-batch coefficients of variation were less than 10% and 15%, respectively, and the method had good repeatability. Through detection on 292 clinical serum samples, it was compared with the French ID VET competitive ELISA kit, and the coincidence rate of the two methods reached 93. 84%. Compared with the serum neutralization test, the detected titer value of the high-sensitivity rapid fluorescence quantitative detection method was basically consistent with the tilter value obtained by the neutralization test on the standard positive serum (provided by the WOAH Brucellosis Reference Laboratory of France). [Conclusions] This method can realize rapid quantitative detection of PPR V antibody on site, and has high practical value and popularization value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Ovine enzootic abortion (OEA) caused by Chlamyidia abortus is one of the most important abortive disease in small ruminants. Diagnosis of Ovine enzootic abortion depends on the isolation and detection of the agent or its nucleic acid. The aim of the present study was to detect Chlamydia abortus using both isolation method and real-time PCR in Brucella free flocks in Iran. Methods: Twenty-eight vaginal and conjunctival swab samples which were Chlamydia abortus seropositive, were selected from ewes and does with recent abortion. Then the samples were tested by real-time PCR and positive molecular samples were inoculated into McCoy cells. Results: Using real-time PCR, 18 samples (64.3%) were positive and 7 (25%) of them were isolated in cell culture. Conclusion: The present results indicate that Chlamydia can play a relatively significant role in the abortion in does and ewes in Iran. Although the isolation of Chlamydia abortus have 100% specificity, because of low sensitivity, time consuming, cost and high probability of contamination, it is not suitable for routine laboratory diagnosis. Therefore, applying real-time PCR which have high sensitivity and specificity is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bluetongue virus (BTV) is an agriculturally and economically significant insect-borne virus that causes serious illness and death in sheep and other domestic and wild ruminants in large areas of the world. Numerous BTV serotypes exist, and distant serotypes exhibit unique neutralizing antibody profiles, which target the outermost capsid protein VP2. The predominant serotype-specific nature of the antibody response to VP2 is a barrier to the development of broad-spectrum prophylactic BTV vaccine candidates. Although VP2 is the main serotype determinant of BTV, the structural basis of serotype specificity has not been investigated. In this study, we utilized the recently available atomic structure of VP2 with a modeled tip domain to carry out in silico structural comparisons between distant serotypes BTV1 and BTV8. These analyses identified structural differences in the tip domain, positioned at the apex of VP2, and informed the design of mutant VP2 constructs. Dissection of tip domain antigenicity demonstrated that the region of structural difference between BTV1 and highly virulent BTV8 was a target of BTV neutralizing antibodies and that mutation of this region resulted in a loss of neutralizing antibody recognition. This study has for the first time provided insights into the structural differences, which underpin the serotype-specific neutralizing antibody response to BTV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Persistent immunoglobulin G (IgG) production (PIP) provides long-term vaccine protection. While variations in the duration of protection have been observed with vaccines prepared from different pathogens, little is known about the factors that determine PIP. Here, we investigated the impact of three parameters on the duration of anti-peptide IgG production, namely amino acid sequences, protein carriers, and immunization programs. We show that anti-peptide IgG production can be transformed from transient IgG production (TIP) to PIP, by placing short peptides (Pi) containing linear B cell epitopes in different competitive environments using bovine serum albumin (BSA) conjugates instead of the original viral particles. When goats were immunized with the peste des petits ruminants (PPR) live-attenuated vaccine (containing Pi as the constitutive component) and BSA-Pi conjugate, anti-Pi IgG production exhibited TIP (duration < 60 days) and PIP (duration > 368 days), respectively. Further, this PIP was unaffected by subsequent immunization with the PPR live-attenuated vaccine in the same goat. When goats were coimmunized with PPR live-attenuated vaccine and BSA-Pi, the induced anti-Pi IgG production showed a slightly extended TIP (from ~60 days to ~100 days). This discovery provides new perspectives for studying the fate of plasma cells in humoral immune responses and developing peptide vaccines related to linear neutralizing epitopes from various viruses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Peste des petits ruminants (PPR) is a highly contagious viral disease affecting small ruminants, posing significant economic challenges, especially in Africa. This study focused on understanding the genetic stability of the live-attenuated Peste des petits ruminant's vaccine Nigeria 75/1 strain, which is an essential tool for the eradication program. A nucleotide sequence comparison of the hypervariable region (C-terminus domain) of the nucleoprotein of the PPR vaccine from 10 different African vaccine manufacturers was conducted. Data analysis revealed 100% nucleotide homology between vaccine samples and the master seed, indicating the genetic stability of the PPR vaccine Nigeria 75/1 over decades. This research contributes to ongoing efforts to control Peste des petits ruminants outbreaks and ensures the efficacy of vaccination programs, ultimately benefiting animal health and agricultural sustainability. Peste des petits ruminants virus (PPRV), which is the only member of the Morbillivirus caprinae species and belongs to the genus Morbillivirus within the Paramyxoviridae family, causes the highly contagious viral sickness "Peste des petits ruminants (PPR)." PPR is of serious economic significance for small ruminant production, particularly in Africa. Control of this critical disease depends highly on successful vaccination against the PPRV. An in-depth understanding of the genetic evolution of the live-attenuated PPR vaccine Nigeria 75/1 strain used in Africa is essential for the successful eradication of this disease by 2030. Therefore, this study investigated the possible genetic evolution of the PPR vaccine produced by various African laboratories compared with the master seed available at AU-PANVAC. RT-PCR was performed to amplify a segment of the hypervariable C-terminal part of the nucleoprotein (N) from commercial batches of PPR vaccine Nigeria 75/1 strain. The sequences were analyzed, and 100% nucleotide sequence identity was observed between the master seed and vaccines produced. The results of this study indicate the genetic stability of the PPR vaccine from the Nigeria 75/1 strain over decades and that the vaccine production process used by different manufacturers did not contribute to the emergence of mutations in the vaccine strain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: In this study, we reported a peste des petits ruminants virus infection case in wild animals, and a virus strain was subsequently sequenced. Our results showed the existence of peste des petits ruminants virus in wild small ruminants in China, which was found to be closely related to the peste des petits ruminants virus isolated in China between 2013 and 2014. Our findings indicated that more attention should be paid to the prevention and control of wildlife diseases because there is the possibility of wild animals infecting domestic animals. In 2013, the second outbreak of peste des petits ruminants occurred in China, leading to a spillover in more than 20 provinces and municipalities over the next few months. Thereafter, the epidemic situation was stable owing to strict prevention and control measures. In February 2024, several bharals and argali with suspected symptoms of PPR were discovered in Rutog country, Tibet Autonomous Region. Samples collected from these animals were delivered to our laboratory for diagnosis; the results of fluorescence quantitative reverse-transcription (RT) PCR indicated that all samples were positive for PPR viral RNA. The N and F gene fragments were amplified successfully via RT-PCR, and these results confirmed that these animals were infected with PPRV. A PPRV strain (subsequently named ChinaTibet2024) was sequenced, and its genome length was 15,954 nucleotides. A phylogenetic tree analysis using N and F genes and viral genomes showed that the ChinaTibet2024 genome was classified into lineage IV of the PRRV genotypes. The genome of the ChinaTibet2024 strain was found to be closely related to PPRVs isolated in China between 2013 and 2014. A base insertion and a base deletion were detected in the M gene 5′ untranslated region. Results indicated that the prevalent PPRV strains in China did not show significant changes and that special attention should be paid to the surveillance of wild animals as an important part of PPR prevention and control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Peste des petits ruminant (PPR) is a contagious disease caused by the peste des petits ruminants virus (PPRV). The disease poses a significant economic threat to small ruminant production in Ethiopia, particularly to the striving pastoral production system. A cross-sectional study was conducted to estimate the seroprevalence and associated risk factors of PPR in the small ruminants of the Borena Zone. A total of 384 serum samples were collected randomly from sheep and goats and examined for the presence of PPRV antibodies using competition enzyme-linked immune sorbent assay (c-ELISA). Additionally, a retrospective analysis of five years of outbreak data was performed to provide insight into the spatial and temporal distribution of the disease. Results The seroprevalence of PPRV antibodies in nonvaccinated, vaccinated, and unknown vaccination status of small ruminants in this study was found to be 32.1%, 68.8%, and 45.5%, respectively. Multivariable logistic analysis revealed a statistically significant association between PPRV seropositivity and several factors, including age, animal origin, flock size, and veterinary services status. A retrospective analysis revealed 53 PPR outbreaks in the Borena Zone from 2018 to 2022, exacerbated by low vaccination coverage relative to the at-risk animal population. Conclusion The study revealed significant gaps in current vaccination efforts, with herd immunity levels falling below the FAO-WOAH recommended threshold of 80%. Despite Ethiopia’s ambitious goal to eradicate PPR by 2027, the frequent outbreaks and insufficient herd immunity highlight the inadequacy of the existing strategies. To effectively move toward eradication, Ethiopia must align its approach with the global PPR eradication framework, which emphasizes a comprehensive strategy that includes diagnostics, surveillance, prevention, and the establishment of a robust veterinary regulatory system, rather than relying solely on vaccination. Overcoming logistical challenges, improving vaccination coverage, and optimizing the timing of vaccination campaigns, especially in hard-to-reach areas, will be crucial for reducing outbreaks and making progress toward eradication.

This review article describes the roles of ultrasound in assessing thoracic and abdominal infectious diseases, mainly bacterial and parasitic ones that affect farm animals, including cattle, camels, sheep, and goats. Ultrasonography is a non-invasive imaging technique used to diagnose infectious diseases affecting the cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and hepatobiliary systems. In cases of thoracic and abdominal infections, ultrasound typically reveals abnormalities in echogenicity and echotexture, the presence of unusual artifacts, and mass formation exerting pressure on surrounding structures. Inflammatory and degenerative changes within the viscera can be identified ultrasonographically by comparing the echogenicity of affected areas with that of the surrounding normal parenchyma, such as in fascioliasis. Bacterial and parasitic infections often result in capsular mass lesions with anechoic contents, as observed in hydatid cysts and cysticercosis, or varying echogenic contents, as observed in liver abscesses. Effusions within the pericardium, pleura, and peritoneum are common ultrasonographic findings in infectious thoracic and abdominal diseases. However, these effusions’ echogenicity does not always allow for clear differentiation between transudates and exudates. The routine use of ultrasonography in the evaluation of the chest and abdomen in affected or suspected ruminants is highly beneficial for detection, guiding therapeutic decisions, assessing prognosis, and aiding in the eradication of highly contagious diseases that cause significant economic losses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anaplasma is an intracellular alphaproteobacteria that infects diverse blood cell types in animal hosts including small ruminants. Epidemiological and risk factors information on zoonotic anaplasmosis with respect to anaplasmosis in sheep and goats are scarce. Therefore, the objective of the current study was to estimate the prevalence, risk factors of anaplasmosis and phylogenetic investigation of A. capra in sheep and goats from Faisalabad district, Pakistan. Briefly, 384 blood samples were randomly collected from sheep and goats of Faisalabad district, Pakistan, during January to May 2022. The samples were processed for the detection of Anaplasma targeting 16S rRNA gene using PCR. The data regarding disease determinants were collected using a predesigned questionnaire. Out of 384 samples, 131 samples were found positive for Anaplasma spp. with a prevalence rate of 34.11%. The results indicated a significantly higher prevalence of anaplasmosis in goats (41.88%) compared to sheep (22.00%). In addition, the chi square indicated that housing type, tick infestation, gender, tick control practices, age, mix farming, and hygiene were significantly associated with the occurrence of disease. The analysis of multivariate logistic regression expressed gender as the significant risk factor (p = 0.0001, OR = 1.757, CI = 1.305–2.366). The acquired sequences revealed four novel isolates of A. capra (Genbank accession numbers ON834323, ON838209, ON838210, and ON838211). The phylogenetic analysis of the 16S rRNA gene of A. capra revealed three distinct clusters with 99–100% homology with other isolates from different countries. Our isolates showed higher similarity with isolates from China (KM206273, KP314237, MT799937), Pakistan (ON238129, ON238130, ON238131), Angola (MT898988), India (MZ558066), Iran (MW692362), and Turkey (MT632469) isolated from human, sheep, ticks, goats, cattle, Gaddi goat, Persian Onager (Equus hemionus onager), and Turkish goats, respectively. In conclusion, A. capra is endemic in Punjab, Pakistan, there is a need to conduct large scale surveillance studies to assess the status of this pathogen at human-animal interface as well as to develop effective preventive and control strategies to reduce the economic losses associated with anaplasmosis in small ruminants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA), a sensitive biomarker for detecting renal injury, has not been characterized in goats. Obstructive urolithiasis (OU) is the most common urinary tract disease in male small ruminants. Hypothesis/Objective: Establish an SDMA reference interval (RI) in healthy adult goats and describe SDMA concentrations in goats with OU. We hypothesize that the SDMA RI in healthy adult goats will be similar to that of other adult veterinary species and that SDMA can be utilized to assess the renal function of goats experiencing OU. Animals: Fifty‐five healthy adult male and female goats from a university herd were enrolled for SDMA RI development. Twenty male and female goats from a university herd were enrolled for validation of the SDMA RI established. Thirteen male goats diagnosed with OU were enrolled. Methods: Clinical trial. Serum samples for all animals enrolled were collected and analyzed for SDMA using an immunoassay (IDEXX Laboratories, Inc); goats with OU had additional blood work analyzed (PCV, total solids, and serum biochemistry). Symmetric dimethylarginine and other values in goats with OU were analyzed and compared at specific time points. Results: The SDMA RI for healthy, adult goats is 8.03 μg/dL (90% CI 4.81‐11.04) to 25.93 μg/dL (90% CI 22.88‐28.97). There was no correlation identified between serum creatinine and SDMA in goats with OU. Conclusions and Clinical Importance: The SDMA RI for adult goats is higher than in other adult large animal species. Use of SDMA in goats with OU is not useful in assessing their renal function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The purpose of this study was to characterize the circulating Peste des Petits Ruminants virus (PPRV) from slaughtered goats and conduct a phylogenetic analysis of the N gene of PPRV. Materials and Methods: A total of 196 slaughtered goats were investigated at the marketplaces of Mymensingh division from January 2019 to March 2021. Lungs, spleen, and mesenteric lymph nodes were collected for histology and molecular study. In-house developed Reverse-Transcriptase-Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) protocols were carried out using designed primer sets (PPRV NF-gctctgtgattgcggctgagc and PPRV NR-cctggtcctccagaatcttggcc). The CLC sequence viewer was used for phylogenetic analysis. Results: Grossly pneumonic lungs, shrinkage spleen, and enlarged mesenteric lymph nodes with hemorrhages were recorded. Both intracytoplasmic and intranuclear inclusion bodies were seen in lymphocytes of the mesenteric lymph node, spleen, and lungs. PPRV was detected in 37 goats (18.9%) by RT-PCR test. The 402-bp amplicon was generated in PPRV-positive cases. The phylogenetic analysis showed that the studied PPRV isolates of the Mymensingh division belonged to lineage IV. Conclusion: The prevalence of PPR was 18.9% in slaughtered goats at marketplaces in the Mymensingh division. Slaughterhouses may be a source of PPRV, and it can be horizontally transmitted from the meat market to the farm. Restricting sick animal movement within the country, mass PPR vaccination campaigns, increased awareness, and improved biosecurity in the meat market may lessen the incidence of PPR in goats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Rotaviruses A (RVA) are a major cause of acute viral gastroenteritis in humans worldwide and are responsible for about two million hospitalizations per year. They can also infect other mammals such as pigs, calves, goats, lambs, and horses, in which they are also considered a major cause of viral diarrhea. While RVA is well studied in humans and domestic animals, its occurrence in wild ruminants is not well known. The RVA genome is a double-stranded RNA consisting of 11 segments, and genotyping is based on the VP7 (G) and VP4 (P) segments. Currently, there are 42G genotypes and 58P genotypes. RVA has a high mutation rate, and some combinations of G and P genotypes can infect different animal species, leading to speculation about the potential for zoonotic transmission. Materials and methods: A total of 432 fecal samples were collected from roe deer, red deer, chamois, mouflon and Alpine ibex in Slovenia between 2017 and 2021. To investigate the presence of RVA in wild ruminants, real-time RT-PCR was used. Positive samples were subjected to next generation sequencing (NGS) using RIP-seq method. Results and discussion: In total, 7 samples were RVA positive. Complete genomes were determined and phylogenetically analyzed for all 7 RVAs. Four different genotype constellations were present in 7 positive RVA animals: G8- P[14]-I2- R2-C2-M2-A3-N2-T6-E2-H3, G6-P [14]-I2-R2-C2-M2-A11-N2-T6- E2-H3, G10-P [15]-I2-R2-C2-M2-A3-N2-T6-E2-H3 and G10-P [15]-I2-R2-C2- M2-A11- N2-T6-E2-H3. Genotypes G6P[14] and G10P[15] were found in both roe deer and red deer, representing the first confirmed occurrence of RVA in red deer. In addition, genotype G8P[14] was found in chamois, representing the first known case of positive RVA in this species. Some of these genotypes have also been found in humans, indicating the potential for zoonotic transmission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Listeriosis is highly prevalent in the animal farming industry, with Listeria monocytogenes as the causative pathogen. To identify potential therapeutic targets for LM infection, we investigated the mechanisms of LM infection in goat uteri. We inoculated a group of goats with LM via jugular vein injection, isolated and raised them, and subsequently collected sterile samples of their uterine tissue after they exhibited clinical symptoms of LM infection. We used Giemsa staining, immunohistochemical staining, real-time qPCR, and Western blotting as experimental methods.First, we investigated the mechanism of Listeria monocytogenes (LM) infection in the goat uterus by examining the expression levels of listeriolysin O, E-cadherin, and tyrosine kinase c-Met in the uterus. Furthermore, we investigated the impact of LM infection on uterine autophagy and cell apoptosis. The results indicate that the injection of LM into the goats' jugular veins leads to LM infection in the goats' uteri. During LM survival inside the goat uterine cells, there is a significant increase in the expression levels of LLO, E-cadherin, and c-Met in the host uterine tissue. This suggests that LM may potentially infect goat uteri through the InlA/E-cadherin and InlB/c-Met pathways. Furthermore, LM infection increases the levels of apoptosis and autophagy in goat uteri. Apoptosis genes Bcl-2 and Bax, as well as autophagyrelated genes LC3B, PINK1, and Parkin, exhibit varying degrees of changes in localization and expression in goat uteri, mediating the occurrence of apoptotic and autophagic responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peste des petits ruminants (PPR), a contagious virus that infects sheep and goats, damages livestock globally. This study examined the clinical features and phylogenetic analysis of the PPR virus in Iraqi breed sheep from Al‐Diwaniyah province. A clinical trial of 610 sheep from different flocks found 150 oral lesions. Special primers for RT‐PCR and Mega11 for phylogenetic analysis were used to study the PPR virus nucleoprotein (N) gene. The PPR infection rate was 44.6% in 4–12 month olds (n = 33/131) and 4.8% in 36–48 month olds (n = 3/75). A 608‐bp PPR virus partial N gene sequence was found in 49.3% of samples by RT‐PCR. In leucine, isoleucine, proline, glycine, alanine, glutamine, asparagine, threonine, serine, arginine, and lysine codons, 25 amino acid alterations were found. The protein codon 56 alanine‐valine alteration was most significant. Moving from a smaller hydrophobic amino acid to one with a bigger side chain may reduce protein stability. Steric hindrance or protein shape change from Valine's extended side chain may impact folding, stability, functionality, and interactions with other molecules. Furthermore, phylogenetic analysis showed that the Nigerian strain (MN271586) was most similar to our Iraqi strain, with 100% identity and coverage. This study found the Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR) virus in sheep flocks in Al‐Diwaniyah Governorate, Iraq, which is genetically similar to neighboring countries. PPR virus strains must be monitored and genetically characterized since N gene alterations can affect infection and propagation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The orf virus (ORFV) poses a serious threat to the health of domestic small ruminants (i.e., sheep and goats) and humans on a global scale, causing around $150 million in annual losses to livestock industry. However, the host factors involved in ORFV infection and replication are still elusive. In this study, we compared the RNA-seq profiles of ORFV-infected or non-infected sheep testicular interstitial cells (STICs) and identified a novel host gene, potassium voltage-gated channel subfamily E member 4 (KCNE4), as a key host factor involved in the ORFV infection. Both RNA-seq data and RT-qPCR assay revealed a significant increase in the expression of KCNE4 in the infected STICs from 9 to 48 h post infection (hpi). On the other hand, the RT-qPCR assay detected a decrease in ORFV copy number in both the STICs transfected by KCNE4 siRNA and the KCNE4 knockout (KO) HeLa cells after the ORFV infection, together with a reduced fluorescence ratio of ORFV-GFP in the KO HeLa cells at 24 hpi, indicating KCNE4 to be critical for the ORFV infection. Furthermore, the attachment and internalization assays showed decreased ORFV attachment, internalization, replication, and release by the KO HeLa cells, demonstrating a potential inhibition of ORFV entry into the cells by KCNE4. Pretreatment with the KCNE4 inhibitors such as quinidine and fluoxetine significantly repressed the ORFV infection. All our findings reveal KCNE4 as a novel host regulator of the ORFV entry and replication, shedding new insight into the interactive mechanism of ORFV infection. The study also highlights the K+ channels as possible druggable targets to impede viral infection and disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Objectives] This study was conducted to explore rapid and large-scale screening and detection of peste des petits ruminants (PPR), so as to provide important technical means for prevention, control and purification of PPR. [Methods] Soluble N protein and NH fusion protein were successfully obtained in an Escherichia coli expression system by optimizing E. coli codon and expression conditions. Furthermore, based on purified soluble N protein and NH fusion protein, a double-antigen sandwich time-resolved fluorescence immunoassay method for detection of peste des petits ruminants virus (PPRV) was established. [Results] The method has high sensitivity and specificity and can specifically detect the antibody against PPRV in sheep serum, and it has no cross reaction with other related diseases. The method was used to detect 292 clinical samples, and compared with French IDVET competition ELISA kit. The coincidence rates of positive samples and negative samples from the two kinds of test kits were 92.47% and 97. 26%, respectively, and the overall coincidence rate was 94. 86%. The intra-group and inter-group coefficients of variation in the repeatability test were less than 10%. [Conclusions] Compared with the traditional ELISA method, the double-antigen sandwich time-resolved fluorescence immunoassay for detection of PPRV has equivalent sensitivity and specificity, and simple and rapid operation, and thus high application and popularization value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Infectious diseases such as peste des petits ruminants (PPRs), contagious caprine pleuropneumonia (CCPP), sheep and goat pox (SGPX), and pasteurellosis have considerable impacts on the optimal utilization of sheep and goat resources in Ethiopia. Immunization using multiple vaccines administered simultaneously has been suggested as a cost-effective and safe approach to controlling and preventing these diseases. Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the immunogenicity and safety of multiple vaccines administered simultaneously in goats. Methods: Sero-negative PPR, CCPP, SGPX, and Pasteurellosis goats were immunized with multiple vaccines. Goats vaccinated with a single vaccine against each disease served as a positive control. The immune response of the goats was assessed using serological tests, and any adverse effects were monitored. Results: The results of the present study showed that goats vaccinated with multiple vaccines exhibited a remarkable immune response against PPR, CCPP, and pasteurellosis. In contrast, they did not produce a protective immune response against sheep or goat pox. No adverse effects were observed with any of the vaccines. Conclusion: This study suggested that combined vaccines can be effective at inducing a protective immune response in goats. However, further research is needed to fully understand the immune response to combined vaccines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study delves into the epidemiology and pathomorphologic characteristics of peste des petits ruminants (PPR) in western Algeria, a viral disease that constantly threatens small animals in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. Aim: The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate the epidemiology of PPR in western Algeria and to understand the pathomorphological lesions in naturally infected small ruminants. Methods: An online survey conducted via google forms and shared with veterinarians in the wilaya of Tiaret, provided insights into the prevalence and clinical manifestations of PPR. A comprehensive examination of organs was conducted and representative tissue samples from the lungs, trachea, thymus, spleen, liver, kidney, heart, tongue, stomach, different parts of the small and large intestine, and mesenteric lymph nodes were collected and the specimen was fixed in a 10% neutral buffer formalin solution. Results: Among 2,200 small ruminants managed by expert veterinarians, 192 small ruminants exhibited clinical signs compatible with PPR, and 79 dead animals. Among the 31 sick young small ruminants, eight were confirmed to be infected with the PPR virus. Necropsies of affected animals revealed significant gross lesions in organs such as the lungs, intestines, spleen, and lymph nodes. Histopathological analysis further illuminated the severity of lesions, including interstitial pneumonia, syncytial cell formation, and severe gastroenteritis. Conclusion: The study’s comprehensive approach, encompassing epidemiological data, necropsy findings, and histopathological insights, contributes valuable knowledge for understanding and managing PPR outbreaks. The pathological lesions observed in this study exhibited consistency with those previously documented in experimental studies, thereby providing support for the diagnosis based on clinical signs and disease history. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Goat production in Lao People's Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) is a small but rapidly growing sector owing to strong export demand, primarily from Vietnam. Disease has been identified as one of the major constraints to goat production but there are limited data on causes and effective control strategies. The situation is exacerbated by a lack of veterinary and extension services in rural areas. Information on the major disease and clinical syndromes of goats and their causative agents is needed to develop local and national control strategies and to improve animal welfare. Zoonotic diseases involving goats are also potentially important in terms of live goat trade and public health, albeit research is lacking. This review summarises and evaluates the available published data on caprine diseases in Lao PDR and provides possible disease control strategies to improve goat production in Lao PDR. Surveys and observations suggest that lip and facial dermatitis, eye conditions and diarrhoea are the most common clinical syndromes affecting the health of Lao goats. These clinical syndromes can be considered as priorities for Lao goats. Serological surveys conducted in limited geographical areas of the country have identified moderate seroprevalence of foot and mouth disease (FMD) and low seroprevalence of bluetongue, peste des petits ruminants (PPR), brucellosis and Q fever in goats. Accordingly, the clinical signs associated with the latter diseases were not commonly reported. Trichostrongylus spp., Haemonchus contortus and coccidia are the main gastro-intestinal parasites identified among Lao goats. Despite these studies, an understanding of the causation of the most common clinical syndromes in Lao goats is still lacking, similar to the situation in many other parts of Southeast Asia. Studies to determine the causation of common clinical syndromes need to be conducted in Lao goats if progress is to be made on overcoming the disease constraint. Similarly, studies are also needed to evaluate interventions that have been introduced to limit the impact of these disease and clinical syndromes. They will likely require changes to goat management and nutrition, in addition to disease-specific interventions. Disease is one of the major issues affecting goat production in Lao PDR. Although only a limited number of studies have been published on diseases in Lao goats, a review of the available literature is desirable, given that goat production is rapidly expanding among smallholder farmers. This review article brings together the disease-related studies for a better understanding of health and production in Lao goats. This article belongs to the Collection Sustainable Animal Agriculture for Developing Countries 2023 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Odisha experiencing sporadic outbreaks of Peste des petits ruminants (PPR) throughout the year. There is a scarcity of available literature on PPR in Odisha till today. This is the first ever detail investigative approach in the state undertaken with an objective to corelate the epidemiological risk factors, haemato-biochemical and pathological changes in natural field outbreaks occurring in eight different districts. Methods: Fourteen field outbreaks of PPR were evaluated clinically as well as epidemiologically and confirmed through polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Blood, serum, faecal and tissue samples were collected to observe haemato-biochemical and pathomorphological changes to asses disease severity. Result: Present study concluded an overall mortality rate of 46.81%. Chi-square analysis revealed significant highest prevalence among 7-12 months (46.13%) age, Ganjam breed (45.51%) and females (80.49%). Frequent migration among the border areas along with poor management and helminthic infection was major precipitating factor. There was polycythemia along with neutrophilia and lymphopenia. Significant increase in alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), K+ and Ca+2 along with creatinine, urea and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) BUN was observed in affected flocks. Antero-ventral consolidation of lungs, syncytia and presence of both eosinophilic intranuclear and intracytoplasmic inclusion bodies were major pathological changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peste des petits ruminants virus (PPRV) is a multi-host pathogen with sheep and goats as main hosts. To investigate the role of cattle in the epidemiology of PPR, we simulated conditions similar to East African zero-grazing husbandry practices in a series of trials with local Zebu cattle (Bos taurus indicus) co-housed with goats (Capra aegagrus hircus). Furthermore, we developed a mathematical model to assess the impact of PPRV-transmission from cattle to goats. Of the 32 cattle intranasally infected with the locally endemic lineage IV strain PPRV/Ethiopia/Habru/2014 none transmitted PPRV to 32 co-housed goats. However, these cattle or cattle co-housed with PPRV-infected goats seroconverted. The results confirm previous studies that cattle currently play a negligible role in PPRV-transmission and small ruminant vaccination is sufficient for eradication. However, the possible emergence of PPRV strains more virulent for cattle may impact eradication. Therefore, continued monitoring of PPRV circulation and evolution is recommended. Field trials and modeling in East Africa suggest zebu cattle, often co-housed with goats under zero-grazing conditions, show no evidence of transmitting PPRV to goats, supporting the strategy of focusing vaccination on small ruminants for PPR eradication in mixed-species systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) and Rift Valley fever (RVF) are among the list of emerging zoonotic diseases that require special attention and priority. RVF is one of the six priority diseases selected by the Senegalese government. Repeated epidemic episodes and sporadic cases of CCHF and RVF in Senegal motivated this study, involving a national cross-sectional serological survey to assess the distribution of the two diseases in this country throughout the small ruminant population. A total of 2127 sera from small ruminants (goat and sheep) were collected in all regions of Senegal. The overall seroprevalence of CCHF and RVF was 14.1% (IC 95%: 12.5–15.5) and 4.4% (95% CI: 3.5–5.3), respectively. The regions of Saint-Louis (38.4%; 95% CI: 30.4–46.2), Kolda (28.3%; 95% CI: 20.9–35.7), Tambacounda (22.2%; 95% CI: 15.8–28.6) and Kédougou (20.9%; 95% CI: 14.4–27.4) were the most affected areas. The risk factors identified during this study show that the age, species and sex of the animals are key factors in determining exposure to these two viruses. This study confirms the active circulation of CCHF in Senegal and provides important and consistent data that can be used to improve the surveillance strategy of a two-in-one health approach to zoonoses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Atypical/Nor98 scrapie (AS) is an idiopathic infectious prion disease affecting sheep and goats. Recent findings suggest that zoonotic prions from classical bovine spongiform encephalopathy (C-BSE) may copropagate with atypical/Nor98 prions in AS sheep brains. Investigating the risk AS poses to humans is crucial. Methods To assess the risk of sheep/goat-to-human transmission of AS, we serially inoculated brain tissue from field and laboratory isolates into transgenic mice overexpressing human prion protein (Met129 allele). We studied clinical outcomes as well as presence of prions in brains and spleens. Results No transmission occurred on the primary passage, with no clinical disease or pathological prion protein in brains and spleens. On subsequent passages, 1 isolate gradually adapted, manifesting as prions with a phenotype resembling those causing MM1-type sporadic Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease in humans. However, further characterization using in vivo and in vitro techniques confirmed both prion agents as different strains, revealing a case of phenotypic convergence. Importantly, no C-BSE prions emerged in these mice, especially in the spleen, which is more permissive than the brain for C-BSE cross-species transmission. Conclusions The results obtained suggest a low zoonotic potential for AS. Rare adaptation may allow the emergence of prions phenotypically resembling those spontaneously forming in humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study was carried out in Linguere department, Louga region of Senegal. Its objective was to explore the socio-economic factors that influence small ruminant producers’ decisions on vaccination against peste des petits ruminants. Methods: We carried out a willingness to vaccinate and willingness to pay for vaccination using a choice experiment approach with 200 small ruminant producers. Results: Results showed that the key factors that influence willingness to vaccinate, include perceived benefits of vaccination (98, 95%CI: 96–100%), the type of vaccinator (91, 95%CI: 87–95%), the access to information (86, 95%CI: 81–91%), the vaccine availability (80, 95%CI: 74–86%), and the possession of a vaccination certificate by the producer (76, 95%CI: 70–82%). Preferences of producers leaned toward home vaccination (preference weight = 0.74, p = 1%), individual herd vaccination (preference weight = 0.45, p = 1%), elective participation to vaccination (preference weight = 0.33, p = 0.01), and low-cost services (preference weight = −0.004, p = 0.1). Producers expressed a willingness to pay for vaccination per animal of XOF 184 (USD 0.3), XOF 113 (USD 0.18), and XOF 82 (USD 0.13) for home, individual herd, and elective vaccination, respectively. Conclusion: The findings underscore the importance of targeted awareness campaigns and bringing vaccination services closer to the producers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peste des petits ruminants (PPRV), a highly contagious viral disease, causes significant economic losses concerning sheep and goats. Recently, PPR viruses (PPRVs), have adopted new hosts and lineage IV of PPRVs represents genetic diversity within the same lineage. 350 samples, including blood, swabs, and tissues from sheep/goats, were collected during the 2020–2021 disease outbreaks in Pakistan. These samples were analysed through RT-PCR and three isolates of PPRV with accession numbers, MW600920, MW600921, and MW600922, were submitted to GenBank, based on the partial N-gene sequencing. This analysis provides a better understanding of genetic characterizations and a targeted RT-PCR approach for rapid PPRV diagnosis. An IELISA test was developed using the semi-purified antigen MW600922 isolate grown in Vero cells. The PPRV isolates currently present high divergence with the Turkish strain; conversely, similarities equivalent to 99.73% were observed for isolates collected from Pakistan. The developed indirect ELISA (IELISA) test demonstrated antibody detection rates at dilutions of 1:200 for antibodies (serum) and 1:32 for antigens. In comparison to cELISA, high specificity (85.23%) and sensitivity (90.60%) rates were observed. In contrast to the virus neutralization test (VNT), IELISA was observed to be 100% specific and 82.14% sensitive in its results. Based on these results, serological surveys conducted for PPR antibodies using IELISA can be a more effective strategy on a larger scale. Furthermore, our results demonstrate a significant breakthrough in the research in terms of cost-effectiveness and storage efficiency, and the developed IELISA test is highly recommended for use in developing countries. Summary: Peste des petits ruminants (PPRV) is a transboundary, highly contagious, and economically significant viral disease affecting small ruminants and wildlife. PPRV, a disease that only targets animals, is the focus of the Global Eradication Programme (PPRV GEP), which aims to eradicate the disease by 2030. Following the completion of the first phase of the GEP (2017–2021), Pakistan has initiated the second phase: PPRV presence and the implementation of a control strategy. Rapid and accurate laboratory diagnosis is vital to the disease's effective control and eradication. In the present study, we have improved diagnosis by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), which not only can detect low viral concentrations but also contributes to the genetic analysis of lineage-IV viruses. However, the development of cost-effective indirect ELISA (iELISA) may allow for the analysis of serum samples obtained from larger populations of small ruminants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) is one of the techniques that can be used in detecting and genotyping various pathogens, and has significant development potential because of needing simple equipment and ease of operation. According to existing visual detection methods for LAMP, this study focused on detecting the cDNA of PPRV that poses a threat to wild small ruminants. We selected appropriate primers and compared and evaluated the applicability and sensitivity of three indicator methods, SYBR Green I, SYBR Safe Stain, and hydroxy naphthol blue (HNB), which can differentiate negative and positive results under visible light or ultraviolet light. The results showed that all three methods demonstrated high sensitivity, comparable to agarose gel electrophoresis. Among them, SYBR Green I shows superior result differentiation, is unaffected by other components, and requires no additional equipment, albeit at higher cost. SYBR Safe Stain provides good result differentiation at a relatively lower cost but necessitates additional UV equipment. HNB is the most cost-effective option but it has lower color differentiation and is susceptible to various influencing factors. It is recommended that the selection of LAMP indicators should consider cost, ease of use, result accuracy, and experimental conditions. Comprehensive system optimization and validation are advised to ensure the accuracy and reliability of LAMP detection. The characteristics and applicable scenarios of different methods are emphasized, which provided a reference for researchers to select efficient and convenient LAMP reaction visualization methods according to different sites and conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objetive: Serum and dietary vitamin D could influence clinical disease activity and cardiometabolic outcomes in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). This study aimed to assess the relationship of serum and dietary vitamin D with cardiometabolic risk in Mexican SLE patients and healthy subjects (HS). Methods: 224 SLE patients and 201 HS were included in this cross-sectional study. Serum calcidiol was measured using a competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Vitamin D dietary intake was assessed by collecting three 24h food records. Dietary patterns (DPs) were identified using principal component analysis (PCA). Cardiometabolic status was analyzed through biochemical measurements and cardiometabolic indexes. Results: Calcidiol deficiency (<20 ng/mL) was associated with 1.66-fold higher risk of excess weight by body mass index (BMI) (≥25 kg/m2) (p =.02), 2.25-fold higher risk to low high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) (<40 mg/dL) (p <.001), and 1.74-fold higher risk to high triglycerides (TG) ≥150 mg/dL (p =.02). Inadequate vitamin D dietary intake was associated with 1.92-fold higher risk of presenting non-healthy waist circumference (WC) (>80 cm) (p <.01), 2.05-fold higher risk of android waist to hip ratio (WHR ≥85) (p <.01), and 1.72-fold higher risk to excess weight (p =.02). Non-adherence to a DP rich in vitamin D food sources was associated with higher WC, WHR, triglycerides, and lower high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C); furthermore, in HS, non-adherence to the DP rich in vitamin D food sources provided 2.11-fold higher risk to calcidiol deficiency. In Cconclusion: A pattern of Calcidiol deficiency, inadequate vitamin D dietary intake, and non-adherence to a DP rich in vitamin D food sources was related to high cardiometabolic risk in SLE patients and HS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peste des petits ruminants (PPR) is a serious acute, highly contagious disease caused by the peste des petits ruminants virus (PPRV). This study aims to establish a qRT-PCR assay with an internal amplification control for the rapid and accurate detection of PPRV. The primers and probes for PPRV N were based on the national standard of the diagnostic techniques for PPR of China, and a pair of primers and TaqMan probes for the internal reference gene of glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) was designed. Optimisation of the reaction conditions, specificity, sensitivity and reproducibility tests, and clinical sample detection were conducted. The results showed that the optimal primers and probe concentrations of PPRV were 0.4 μmol/l and 0.4 μmol/l, respectively, and were 0.4 μmol/l and 0.2 μmol/l for the reference gene GAPDH, respectively. The established method has no cross-reaction with other viruses. The minimum detection limit was 6.8 copies/µl for PPRV and 190 copies/µl for GAPDH. The coefficients of variation (CV%) of PPRV and GAPDH were both lower than 2%. The results suggest that the PPRV qRT-PCR method containing internal reference genes has strong specificity, high sensitivity, and good reproducibility. The addition of internal reference genes for the sample quality control improves the accuracy of the detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Contagious and economically devastating, peste des petits ruminants (PPR) is a viral disease affecting goats and sheep, causing significant losses in livestock productivity and posing a threat to food security and rural livelihoods worldwide. Objectives: This study was conducted to assess the status of goat farmer's knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) about PPR disease at Sylhet district of Bangladesh. Methods: A comprehensive cross‐sectional survey, conducted over 11 weeks, targeted 130 goat owners. Following a pilot study with 20 farmers, a set of 17 validated questions on PPR KAP was validated. Data collection was performed through face‐to‐face interviews by a trained team using KOBO Toolbox, with interpretation of responses based on established thresholds for knowledge (>65%), attitude (>75%) and practice (>70%). Results: Overall, 67.7% of participants demonstrated a good level of knowledge about PPR disease. Males exhibited 1.42 times higher odds of knowledge compared to females (odds ratio = 1.42). The middle age group (31–45 years) showed significantly higher knowledge levels (83.3%, p < 0.001). Within this age group, positive practice levels were also notably higher (54.8%). Those with a higher secondary education background exhibited the most positive practice levels (>80%). Participants whose additional income came from non‐governmental organization employment showed a higher positive practice level (71.4%), 1.46 times higher than other income sources. Conclusion: Strategic interventions should prioritize female farmers, educational empowerment and collaboration with non‐governmental organizations to bolster livestock health and rural livelihoods in Bangladesh as part of national PPR control strategy to fulfil the goals of Office International des Epizooties/World Organization for Animal Health (OIE/WOAH) and Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) PPR eradication by 2030. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]