Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) is a viral disease affecting bovines caused by the Lumpy Skin Disease Virus (LSDV), a member of the Capripoxvirus genus. Initially endemic to Africa, LSD has expanded to the Middle East, Asia, and parts of Europe, primarily due to the spread of blood-feeding insect vectors, such as mosquitoes, flies, and ticks. The disease is characterized by fever, nodular skin lesions, and swollen lymph nodes, often resulting in reduced milk production, weight loss, and trade restrictions. Mortality rates are generally low, yet LSD causes significant economic losses due to decreased productivity and export limitations. The epidemiology of LSD is closely linked to environmental factors that support vector populations, with outbreaks peaking in warm, humid areas. Although all cattle breeds are susceptible, exotic high-yielding breeds often suffer more severe impacts than native cattle. Diagnosing LSD involves clinical examination and laboratory tests, primarily polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and serological assays, which help differentiate LSD from other similar diseases. Accurate and early diagnosis is crucial to controlling outbreaks. Prevention relies heavily on vaccination with live attenuated vaccines derived from Capripoxvirus, which offer effective immunity in endemic regions. Control measures include movement restrictions, quarantine, and vector control, such as insecticides and repellents, particularly in disease-free areas, to contain LSD spread. Ongoing surveillance and international collaboration are essential to manage LSD effectively, as the disease poses a substantial threat to global cattle industries.
Heart disease in dogs is a significant health issue that often goes unnoticed, especially in India, where there may be limited awareness and resources for diagnosis. Canine heart diseases fall into two main categories: congenital and acquired. Congenital heart diseases, which make up about 5% of cases, are typically seen in young dogs and are usually inherited structural issues. Some common examples include Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA), Subaortic Stenosis (SAS), Pulmonic Stenosis (PS), and Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF). In contrast, acquired heart diseases are much more common, accounting for about 95% of cases. The most prevalent type among these is degenerative valvular disease, particularly in older, small-breed dogs. Other significant conditions include heartworm disease, dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in larger breeds, and degenerative mitral valve disease. Echocardiography has become an invaluable tool for diagnosing and managing these heart conditions. This article explores the classification, underlying mechanisms, breed predispositions, and clinical implications of various heart disorders in dogs. It highlights the importance of early detection and thorough veterinary cardiac care to enhance the health and well-being of affected dogs.
The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into livestock genetics and genomic selection represents a transformative shift in modern animal breeding. AI-driven approaches, including machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL), enhance the accuracy and efficiency of genomic selection (GS), enabling early prediction of breeding values, optimized trait selection and improved disease resistance. This chapter explores the core applications of AI in livestock genetics, such as genomic prediction, image-based phenotyping and precision health monitoring, while highlighting the technological foundations—next-generation sequencing, high-performance computing and IoT-enabled data collection—that make these advancements possible. Case studies across dairy cattle, swine, poultry and aquaculture demonstrate AI’s real-world impact, from accelerating genetic gain to enhancing animal welfare. However, challenges such as data quality, model interpretability and ethical concerns around genetic modification and data ownership must be addressed. Future directions include multi-omics integration, digital twins and quantum computing for advanced breeding optimization. By balancing innovation with ethical responsibility, AI can drive sustainable, equitable progress in livestock production. The goal is to illustrate how AI can be a powerful ally in developing a smarter, more sustainable future for livestock sectors.
Earthworms are vital to soil ecosystems and organic waste recycling, but present identification challenges due to morphological variability and limitations in distinguishing juvenile or degraded specimens. Traditional identification methods relying on adult morphology are labour-intensive and restricted in scope. Molecular techniques, including the use of mitochondrial and ribosomal genes (e.g., COI, 16S rRNA), offer improved species resolution. This study focuses on optimising RNA extraction from juvenile P. excavatus using TRIZOL reagent. The protocol involves tissue homogenisation, phase separation, RNA precipitation, washing, and resuspension. Modifications, such as cold processing and additional washing steps, enhanced RNA quality. Purity was confirmed through agarose gel electrophoresis and UV spectrophotometry, yielding intact RNA bands and ideal absorbance ratios. The optimised method provides a reliable approach for obtaining high-quality RNA from earthworms, facilitating molecular identification and ecological studies.
Sheep and goats play a crucial role in the economy of the rural population through their contributions of meat, wool, and hides. However, their productivity is threatened by various infectious diseases, with sheep and goat pox (SGP) being particularly significant. The economic impact of pox diseases extends beyond animal health, as they hinder the international trade of ovine and caprine livestock and their derivatives. While the symptoms of sheep and goat pox (SGP) can be suggestive, a conclusive diagnosis can only be reached through laboratory testing. The condition's etiology can be attributed to distinct yet closely related viral pathogens: the Sheep pox virus (SPV) affecting sheep and the goat poxvirus (GPV) infecting goats. These viral agents exhibit notable antigenic and genomic homology, not only with each other but also with the lumpy skin disease virus (LSDV) responsible for lumpy skin disease (LSD). Taxonomically, all three viruses are classified within the genus Capripoxvirus, a member of the Poxviridae family. In some regions, SPV and GPV can infect each other's hosts, complicating diagnosis and epidemiological studies. Recent research has shown that these viruses are phylogenetically distinct, and molecular tools can be used to differentiate them. The most effective control measure for SGP is vaccination with attenuated vaccines, which provide long-lasting immunity. Comprehensive information on the isolation, identification, pathology, epidemiology, diagnosis, and prevention of sheep pox is essential. Such knowledge is valuable for the scientific community and policymakers to develop effective strategies for controlling and eradicating the disease. This chapter presents an updated overview of sheep and goat pox and its management.
ISBN : 978-81-973154-5-9
