Microbes are no longer viewed solely as vicious pathogens; they are recognized as pivotal players in human and animal health.

The innate ability of microbes to interact with host systems provides a unique platform for the delivery of therapeutics via

genetic engineering. andldquo;Designerandrdquo; or bioengineered microbes represent a breakthrough for treating challenging chronic diseases

such as cancer and addressing the alarming rise in antibiotic-resistant pathogens. These living therapeutics can be programmed

to produce hormones, enzymes, antigens, and vitamins at the site of disease. As safety concerns regarding recombinant DNA

persist, the development of sophisticated biocontainment devices offers a path forward. This review explores the architecture,

applications, and challenges of bioengineered microbes as a judicious alternative to traditional antibiotics.

Livestock sector is extremely resilient to climate change and are considered to play a significant role in ensuring the food

security of the growing human population on the planet. The impact of climate change is visible all over the world and situation

in India is more alarming as our rural economy is primarily dependent on crop-livestock production system. As compared to

other livestock, goats are considered as the ideal animal due to its draught resilience, high disease resistance and its ability to

survive on limited pasture. This review goes through intothe advantages of rearing goats as compared to other livestock, role

of goats in climate change mitigation and socio-economic importance of goats. Goats are crucial for poor farmers, especially

in lower and middle-income countries in Asia. They provide milk, meat, and other products which can be readily sold and have

low labor requirements, making them ideal for families with limited resources. Furthermore, these low income group families

consider goat as better resilient animal to manage with stressors like feed and water scarcity, heat stress and to feed on bushes

when compared to other animals like cattle and sheep. These advantages makes goat species to effectively counter the adverse

effects associated with climate change and also optimize relevant economic returned through sustained production. Therefore

goats can be projected to be the future animal with high potential to combat alarming climate change effects and goats can also

plays an important role in ensuring food safety to meet the demands of increasing human population in the near future.

A cross-sectional study was conducted from December 2023 to July 2024 to estimate sero-prevalence and assess the risk factors

of brucellosis in small ruminants in selected districts of West Omo and Kafa zone of southwestern Ethiopia. A total of 552 (341

goats and 211 sheep) serum samples were collected from 80 flocks by simple random sampling method and two serological

testing was performed using a Rose Bengal plate test (RBPT) for screening and indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (i

-ELISA) for confirmation of small ruminant brucellosis antibodies. The overall sero-prevalence of brucellosis was 4.17% (95%

CI 2.8 to 6.2) at individual animal level and 20% (95% CI 12.7 to 30) at herd level. Multivariable regression analysis showed

that the odd of seropositivity in larger herds were 4.69 times greater than that of seropositivity in small herds. Brucellosis seroprevalence was also significantly associated with animals that had prior history of abortion (95% CI: 1.614-14.175 OR = 4.78,

P andlt; 0.005) which had 4.78 times higher risk of developing brucellosis. Those animal with retained fetal membrane were found

to be 6.83 times more likely to be at higher risk of Brucella infection compared with no history of retained fetal membrane

with (95% CI: 2.178-21.472 OR = 6.83, P andlt; 0.001). Seroprevalence of brucellosis was also significantly associated with female

animals those had prior history of still birth with 6.08 times more likely susceptible for Brucella infection than those animals

without prior history of still birth (95% CI: 1.846-20.039, OR = 6.08, P = 0.003). This study confirms the moderate infection of

small ruminant brucellosis in the study area.

The present study was conducted to evaluate the effect of Moringa oleifera leaf meal (MOLM) supplementation on haematological

parameters and carcass characteristics in crossbred pigs. Twenty-four crossbred pigs (75% Large White Yorkshire andtimes; 25% Desi) with an average initial body weight of 20 kg were randomly allotted to four dietary treatments with six animals in each treatment. All the experimental diets were iso-nitrogenous and iso-caloric containing moringa leaf meal at 0% (T1), 5% (T2), 7.5% (T3) and 10% (T4) in the rations and were offered for a period of five months until to reach approximate body weight of 80 kg. Blood samples collected at the end of the grower phase were analyzed for haematological indices. While, slaughter of animals was conducted at approximate body weight of 80 kg to study carcass characteristics. Results indicated that inclusion of MOLM in crossbred pig diets had no significant (Pandgt;0.05) effect on haematological parameters and all the values were within normal physiological ranges. Carcass traits such as pre-slaughter weight, dressing percentage, carcass length, loin-eye area, total meat weight, bone weight, and meat-to-bone ratio did not differ significantly (Pandgt;0.05) among the treatments. However, back fat thickness decreased and liver weight decreased linearly (Pandlt;0.05 and Pandlt;0.01 respectively) with increasing levels of MOLM, indicating reduced fat deposition and hypocholesterolemic effects. These findings suggest that Moringa oleifera leaf meal can be safely incorporated up to 10% in the rations of crossbred pigs without adverse effects on blood profile and carcass yield, while contributing to leaner pork production.

We conducted this study to examine how including infertile egg meal with shell obtained from the hatchery affects the growth,

digestibility of nutrients, and health status of Labrador puppies. On the basis of the results of in vitro digestibility, two bestperforming

levels (2.5% IEMS and 5% IEMS diets) were selected from an in vivo study on Labrador puppies for their potential as an alternate protein source. For the experimental duration of 90 days, Group I fed a commercial puppy food (control)-based diet; Group-II fed a 2.5% IEMS-based diet; and Group-III fed a 5% IEMS-based diet. The results of the in vivo experiment revealed that there was no significant (p andgt; 0.05) difference in final body weight, total weight gain, ADG, or FCR among all the treatment groups. The percent digestibility of DM, OM, and CP was significantly (p andlt; 0.05) higher in the commercial puppy food and 2.5% IEMS-based diet than in the 5% IEMS diet; however, the commercial puppy food and 2.5% IEMS diet are comparable (p andgt; 0.05) to each other. The percent digestibility of EE was significantly (p andlt; 0.05) higher in the 2.5% IEMS and 5% IEMS diets as compared to the commercial puppy food groups. The blood biochemical parameters of Labrador puppies were assessed at the 0th, 45th, and 90th days of the experiment. All the observed blood biochemical parameters were found to be comparable (p andgt; 0.05) among the dietary treatments at the 0th day, 45th day, and 90th day. The cell-mediated immune response to intradermal injection of PHA-P at the end of the experimental duration revealed that there was no significant (p andgt; 0.05) difference in cell-mediated immune response among the different treatment groups. It may be concluded from the present study that 2.5% of IEMS can be incorporated in the diet of Labrador puppies as an alternate source of protein.

The escalating challenge of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in livestock production, exacerbated by the global restrictions on antibiotic growth promoters, has intensified the search for natural alternatives. Essential oils (EOs), derived from aromatic plants, have emerged as promising phytogenic feed additives due to their multifaceted bioactive properties, including antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects. This review explores the applications of EOs in livestock health and production, spanning poultry, swine, ruminants, and aquaculture. Key mechanisms involve disruption of microbial cell membranes, modulation of gut microbiota, enhanced nutrient digestibility, and rumen fermentation optimization, leading to improved growth performance, feed efficiency, and reduced methane emissions in ruminants. As feed additives, EOs from sources like oregano, thyme, cinnamon, garlic, and rosemary promote digestive enzyme secretion, mitigate enteric pathogens (e.g., Salmonella, E. coli, Clostridium), and support disease prevention against respiratory infections, mastitis, and parasitism. Species-specific benefits include enhanced egg production and immunity in poultry, better weight gain in swine, and improved milk yield in dairy animals. Advanced delivery systems, such as nanoencapsulation, address challenges like volatility and palatability, enhancing bioavailability and efficacy. Despite promising in vitro and in vivo evidence, variability in EO composition, optimal dosing, and long-term safety require further standardization. This review highlights EOsandrsquo; potential as sustainable tools for antibiotic-free livestock systems, emphasizing future research directions for clinical translation and regulatory approval.

Pathogenic Escherichia coli is transmitted to humans via the fecalandndash;oral route. This study assessed the safety of water sources

with respect to the presence of pathogenic E. coli in Jammu and Kashmir, a Union Territory in northern India. A total of 141 water samples were collected from natural sources (81 samples: 43 river, 28 pond, and 10 lake) and drinking water sources (60 samples: 40 municipal supplies and 20 wells). These samples were analyzed for E. coli isolation, and pathotyping for ETEC, EPEC, and EHEC was done using PCR. Of the 81 samples collected from natural water sources, 56 (27 rivers, 20 ponds, and 9 lakes) tested positive for E. coli. None of these 56 isolates were positive for ETEC or EPEC, while 03 river and 02 pond samples tested positive for EHEC. Among the 60 drinking water samples, 15 (13 from municipal supplies and 2 from wells) were positive for E. coli. None of these isolates were positive for ETEC, EPEC, or EHEC. E. coli is widely used as an indicator organism for fecal contamination. The findings of this study reveal the extent of contamination of different water sources and emphasize the need for improved water quality monitoring to protect public health.

A study was carried out to characterize the lesser-known sheep population of the Central Dry Zone (CDZ) of Karnataka. Data was collected from 144 shepherds across 48 villages [Chitradurga (Group I) and Tumkur-(Group IIA andamp; IIB)] were collected to document socio-economic aspects, flock management, and the phenotypic and morphometric traits of the sheep. The population exhibited distinct phenotypic features: predominantly black, brown with admixtures of black, brown and white, convex head profile, long pendulous ears, and absence of wattles. Tail length varied, with short tails was predominant in Group I of Hiriyur Taluk, Chitradurga and long tails in Groups IIA and IIB were observed in Sira Taluk, Tumkur district. The average body weight of male lambs in Group I, IIA, and IIB was 13.728 andplusmn; 0.878, 17.023 andplusmn; 0.729, and 17.934 andplusmn; 1.165 kg, while female lambs averagedm 11.939 andplusmn; 0.685, 14.309 andplusmn; 0.574, and 15.429 andplusmn; 0.918 kg. Average body length of male lambs was 51.116 andplusmn; 1.167, 57.435 andplusmn; 0.969, and 57.907 andplusmn; 1.548 cm; females measured 49.773 andplusmn; 1.083, 55.261 andplusmn; 0.908, and 56.019 andplusmn; 1.452 cm. In the four-teeth age group, males measured 71.913 andplusmn; 0.968, 74.571 andplusmn; 0.716, and 76.000 andplusmn; 1.468 cm, while females measured 71.267 andplusmn; 0.939, 70.250 andplusmn; 0.643, and 71.615 andplusmn; 1.009 cm. Morphometric analysis showed sexual dimorphism, with males consistently heavier and larger than females. Chest girth, withers height, body length and rump height showed significant correlation. Chest girth was the best predictor of body weight.

The present study was conducted to evaluate the effect of incorporating papaya rind powder (PRP) on the development of functional restructured goat meat blocks (RGMB). Based on preliminary trials, three different levels of PRP (1%, 2%, and 3%) were added to the formulation by replacing goat meat, resulting in four samples: Control (without PRP), T1 (with 1% PRP), T2 (with 2% PRP), and T3 (with 3% PRP). The samples were assessed for various physico-chemical, proximate, colour, texture, and sensory attributes. The incorporation of PRP significantly (pandlt;0.05) improved the cooking yield and crude fibre content of the developed products. PRP incorporation significantly improved the hardness and reduced the chewiness score. Increasing levels of PRP resulted in darker product colour, reflected by decreased L* values and increased b* values. The sensory attributes of the functional RGMB improved with the addition of PRP up to 2% levels; thereafter, a marked deterioration of the sensory qualities was observed. The overall acceptability of functional RGMB formulated with 2% PRP was recorded as the highest. Thus, good-quality functional RGMB could be prepared by adding 2% PRP.

This study examined the growth and economic outcomes of Malabari kids reared on different milk replacers compared with natural damandrsquo;s milk. Healthy kids were assigned to four feeding groups: damandrsquo;s milk, whey-based replacer, groundnut-based replacer, and coconut-based replacer. All kids received colostrum at birth and were reared on the assigned diets until weaning. Key performance indicators included growth rate, feed efficiency, health status, and cost of feeding. Kids raised on damandrsquo;s milk and whey-based replacer showed better growth and feed efficiency than those on groundnut or coconut-based replacers. Health parameters remained comparable across groups, though digestive issues were more frequent in oilcake-based diets. The wheybased replacer proved to be the most cost-effective option, offering a sustainable and practical alternative to damandrsquo;s milk for smallholder goat production.

A two-year-old male German Shepherd dog weighing 35 kg was presented with a history of persistent retching and regurgitation following ingestion of sheep bones. Clinical examination revealed moderate dehydration, while other physiological parameters were within normal limits. Survey radiography of the thorax and cranial abdomen revealed a radiopaque foreign body lodged in the caudal esophagus, consistent with a bone. Owing to failure of conservative management, surgical intervention was undertaken. The dog was stabilized and subjected to exploratory surgery, during which the esophageal foreign body was successfully retrieved. Postoperative management included fluid therapy, antibiotics, analgesics, and gradual reintroduction of oral feeding. The dog recovered uneventfully without postoperative complications. This case highlights the importance of early diagnosis using radiography and prompt surgical intervention for successful management of esophageal foreign bodies in dogs.

This study documents the management of a maternally abandoned Bengal tiger (Pathera tigris tigris Linnaeus, 1758) cub that was rescued under severely distressed conditions, born at North Bengal Wild Animals Park, Siliguri, West Bengal, India. After that, the tiger cub was successfully hand-reared by a team of veterinarians and animal attendants. This practical experience of hand-rearing a tiger cub provides critical insights into veterinary protocols for managing maternally rejected tiger cubs, haemoparasitic infections in neonatal tigers, and successful rehabilitation strategies in zoological environments, contributing valuable knowledge to captive tiger breeding programs and conservation efforts.