<div>Background: Gastrointestinal (GI) parasitism in pigs is often associated with subclinical infections leading to poor weight gain and reduced market value. One of the most significant risks is pigs being the host for many zoonotic parasites and thereby threatening human health. Despite the epidemiological data being available from different states of the country, records from Andhra Pradesh are scanty. Hence, a study was conducted to determine the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in free range pigs of Proddatur municipality Andhra Pradesh, India. 
 
Methods: About 142 fecal samples were collected from free range pigs slaughtered in four localities of Proddatur municipality over a period of six months. The fecal samples were later subjected for parasitological examination and the tissue pieces of intestines collected from the slaughtered animals with the embedded parasites and those with pathological changes were subjected to histological staining procedure for identification. 
 
Result: Fecal examination revealed 80.98% (115/142) positivity for parasitic ova or occysts. About eleven species of parasites were identified; of them nine were helminths (83.8%) and two were protozoan (10.5%) parasites. Infection with Ascarops spp. (28.2%) and Fasciolopsis buski (17.6%) was found to be significantly (P&lt;0.05) higher. The tissue sections of the intestines with pathological lesions revealed embedded parasites in intestinal mucosa infiltrated with eosinophils and mononuclear cells. The higher prevalence of GI parasites in slaughtered pigs in Proddatur region rises concern towards the impact on the health of pigs and as well as pork consumers suggesting a strategic control for GI parasites in pig farming.</div>

Prevalence and Pathology of Gastrointestinal Parasites in Free Range Pigs

Background: Goat rearing is an important livelihood activity in India. Anemia is a major health problem in goats, commonly associated with gastrointestinal parasitism, nutritional deficiencies and poor management practices. This study investigated the prevalence of anemia in goats and its associated gastrointestinal pathological changes. 
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Methods: A total of 496 goats of varying ages, sexes and breeds were examined for anemia, based on clinical examination and laboratory confirmation. Blood samples were collected for hematological analysis to classify the type of anemia and for biochemical analysis, while affected gastrointestinal tissues were processed for histopathological examination. 
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Result: Of 496 goats examined, 212 (42.74%) were anemic, with a higher prevalence in young goats. Affected animals showed pallor, weakness, exercise intolerance and mandibular edema. Significant reductions in haemoglobin, packed cell volume and erythrocyte count were observed, along with hypoproteinaemia, hypoalbuminaemia, hypocalcaemia, hypophosphataemia and elevated ALP and GGT activities. Gastrointestinal lesions and heavy parasitic infestations, particularly Haemonchus contortus and amphistomes, were common. Histopathology revealed villous atrophy, epithelial desquamation and inflammatory changes. The findings identify gastrointestinal parasitism and nutritional deficiencies as major contributors to caprine anemia.

Comprehensive Clinicopathological Assessment of Anemia in Goats with Special Reference to Gastrointestinal Lesions

<div>Background: This study elucidated the molecular detection and pathological alterations in broiler chickens naturally infected with field circulating NDV strains along with their phylogenomic dynamics. 
 
Methods: Morbid tissue samples of diseased/dead chickens were collected from 100 poultry flocks presented to poultry disease diagnostic laboratories from September 2018 to August 2019. Samples were subjected to molecular detection of NDV along with phylogenetic analysis and subsequent gross and histopathological examination. 
 
Result: Based on RT-PCR results, the positivity of NDV was 04/100 (4%). Genetic analysis of the NDV Fusion (F) gene revealed 98.92% and 98.74% similarity with Iranian and Pakistani isolates, respectively. The evolutionary tree showed that present study isolates were placed in a clade belongs to genotype Vll sub-genotype i and l. Necropsy examinations revealed the petechial haemorrhages associated with multifocal necrosis in gastrointestinal and respiratory organs. Besides these pathological findings, amino acid sequence of F gene revealed that study isolates are having pathogenic potential similar to the velogenic strains of NDV. Based on all essential analyses, the present study concluded that the evolution and distribution of the Newcastle disease virus of various genotypes VIIi and VIIl in Pakistan are having significant pathogenic potential. Therefore, it emphasizes developing ND vaccine from indigenous strains for better protection of commercial poultry in Pakistan.</div>

Molecular Characterization and Pathology of Virulent Newcastle Disease Virus Isolated from Broiler Chickens in District Lahore, Pakistan

Background: The porcine sapelovirus (PSV) is a small, non-enveloped, single-stranded, positive-sense, RNA virus of the family Picornaviridae. The PSV infections in pigs have been found associated with diarrhoea, polioencephalomyelitis, pneumonia and reproductive disorders with a high morbidity rate. Despite of its economical importance very few studies are available on the pathology of PSV. The present study was conducted with the aim to investigate the PSV infection and associated pathology in Indian pigs.&nbsp; 
 
Methods: Tissue samples along with intestinal content were collected from a total of 78 necropsied cases for histopathological examination and molecular investigation during April 2019 to August 2020. The amplification of 5&#39; UTR region of PSV was carried out via RT-PCR and confirmed by sequencing. The Genetic characterization of Indian isolate of the PSV was done on the basis of viral 5&#39; UTR gene.&nbsp; 
 
Result: A total of eight out of 78 cases were found positive for the PSV. Catarrhal and haemorrhagic enteritis, thickening and clouding of brain meninges along with congestion of brain and pneumonia was observed as common gross lesions. Microscopic lesions included perivascular cuffing, focal gliosis, neuronophagia, congestion of meningeal and cerebral vessels, interstitial pneumonia, inflammatory changes in the intestinal mucosa and sloughing of villi. The genetic characterization revealed maximum identity of 96.89% with PSV-1 strain PSV-46-V (LC508233) and PSV-1 strain PSV-26-B (LC508232) of Zambia. This study reported the pathological and molecular investigation of PSV from Indian pigs. Further explorative surveillance along with experimental studies in suitable animal model and cell lines are highly warranted for better understanding of PSV pathology in Indian pigs.

Pathology and Molecular Characterization of Porcine Sapelovirus in Indian Pigs

The potential health benefits of buckwheat are ascribed to bioactive compounds that possess anti-inflammatory, antihypertensive, antioxidant and antidiabetic properties. Owing to its gluten-free and low-FODMAP composition, it attracts individuals who have sensitive gastrointestinal (GI) tracts, specifically those who are sensitive to gluten. In contrast, additional research is required to determine the impact of buckwheat-wheat hybridization in food preparations, which aims to improve texture and flavor, on the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) via in vitro fermentation and its impact on intestinal microbiota. Amidst the prevailing global food crisis, it is critical to prioritize the establishment of food security measures for an expanding population. To enhance the availability and quality of food, an interdisciplinary strategy that may involve enrichment, biofortification and botanical supplements is required. This review evaluates the impact of buckwheat on GI health outcomes and regulation of the gut microbiome, addressing critical health concerns in the midst of evolving food crises. Buckwheat supports gastrointestinal health due to its high nutritional content and possible therapeutic attributes. Comprehending its application is crucial for advancing therapeutic interventions for gastrointestinal issues and mitigating potential food shortages. 
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Relevance of Buckwheat in Gastrointestinal Health Modulation: A Review

Background: A total of 20 tissue samples from horn, eye, skin and vulva in bovines suspected of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) on the basis of gross pathology were collected from Durg, Dhamtari and Rajnandgaon districts of Chhattisgarh and processed in the Department of Veterinary Pathology, College of Veterinary Science and A.H., DSVCKV, Anjora, Durg (C.G.). 
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Methods: Investigation was conducted during January to June 2022, we explicate the pathological and immunohistochemical examination including scoring and grading of squamous cell carcinoma in bovines. Histopathological examination as per standard HandE method of staining and immunohistochemistry was performed through Benchmark automated staining system. 
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Result: Twelve cases were diagnosed as SCC on the basis of histopathological and eleven on the basis of immunohistochemical analysis. Grossly neoplasms of horn revealed large, cauliflower like unilateral irregular masses at the base of horn and they were friable and soft in consistency. Small, unilateral growths observed in eye varied from soft to hard in consistency. Histopathological findings in SCC of horn revealed keratinization of horn epithelium forming concentric keratin pearls. Distinctive keratin pearls with more keratin deposition towards the center, numerous mitotic figures with anaplasia and neovascularization were evident in OSCC. Immunohistochemistry revealed strong immunohistochemical expression of Pan-Cytokeratin (Pan-CK), p53 and EGFR and negative&nbsp; to p16. Immunohistochemical scoring (IHS) was done in Pan-CK, EGFR and p53, ranged from 1-4. Well differentiated SCC of horn revealed strong immunoexpression against EGFR, varied from mild to intense. SCC of horn exhibited strong immunoexpression for Pan-CK, p53 and EGFR whereas, immunoexpression in OSCC specifically p53 was less as compared to SCC of horn. Grading and differentiation of SCC (horn and eye) was also done on basis of histopathological and immunohistochemical scoring.

Pathology and Diagnosis of Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Bovines

<div>Background: Trichomonas gallinae is a flagellated protozoa, infects the upper digestive system of pigeon and causing a condition called canker, characterized by development of granulomatous lesions in the buccal cavity, crop, proventriculus, gizzard and liver of affected birds causing mortality upto 90% in squabs. Systemic research on prevalence and pathology of T. gallinae in pigeons are scant in India. The present work was carried out to document the prevalence and pathology of T. gallinae in pigeons of Assam. 
 
Methods: During the one- year study period, throat swab samples were collected from households, market places and temple premises in 4 districts of Assam. A total of 324 birds were examined by wet mount and Giemsa staining methods for detection of T. &nbsp;gallinae. Naturally died carcasses were studied for gross and histopathological alteration in different organs. 
 
Result:&nbsp;In the present study prevalence of T. gallinae was found 26.85% and squabs were highly susceptible with 56.25 percent. &nbsp;Sex wise, comparatively higher prevalence was observed in females (33.54%) than in the males (20.48%). Seasonality study revealed highest prevalence during winter. Gross pathological alteration characterized by yellowish white caseo-necrotic haemorrhagic lesion in the upper digestive tract beginning with the oral cavity and lesions also found in liver and lungs. Histopathological alteration also recorded in different organs. In the liver sinusoidal congestion and kupffer cell hyperplasia were observed. Infiltration of polymorphonuclear cells in the thickened inter alveolar space of lungs also recorded. Further study is required to identify the prevalent strains of T. gallinae on the basis of pathogenicity in this geographic region and immunology of T. gallinae in pigeons and other hosts remain to be explored.</div>

<div>Prevalence and Pathology of Trichomonas gallinae in Domestic Pigeon (Columba livia domestica) of Assam, India</div>

The study was aimed at to investigate the anthelmintic efficacy of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Cucurbita pepo against gastrointestinal nematodes of sheep by scientifically validated in vitro and in vivo tests. In vitro anthelmintic activity was determined by egg hatch assay, larval migration inhibition assay and larval development assay against eggs and larvae of mixed gastrointestinal nematodes of sheep. The extracts which were found to be effective in in vitro assays were further evaluated by in vivo faecal egg count reduction test against mixed species of sheep gastrointestinal nematodes with 3 different doses (125, 250 and 500 mg kg-1). Haematological and serum parameters were estimated before and after treatment to determine the impact of plant extracts on health of the animal. Aqueous extract of C. pepo demonstrated significant inhibition of egg hatch at 40 and 80 mg/ml. The ED50 value of egg hatch inhibition was 3.51mg/ml. In larval migration inhibition assay, both aqueous and ethanolic extracts of C. pepo demonstrated inhibition of larval migration and the LM50 was 1.75 and 0.32 mg/ml respectively. However, in larval development assay, both aqueous and ethanolic extracts showed only marginal inhibition of larval development at all concentrations tested. In faecal egg count reduction test (FECRT), aqueous extracts of C. pepo at 500 mg/kg caused significant reduction in eggs per gram (96.61 per cent) the reduction being higher than the result obtained with albendazole, the positive control (93.25 per cent). There was a significant difference in EPG reduction between sheep treated with albendazole and C. pepo. Haematological and serum parameters were not affected in both the treated and untreated sheep indicating that the extracts did not cause toxic effects. Based on the results obtained in this study, the aqueous extract of C. pepo possesses anthelmintic activity and could offer an alternative source for the control of gastrointestinal nematodes of sheep.

Anthelmintic evaluation of Cucurbita pepo against&nbsp;gastrointestinal nematodes of sheep

Background: The porcine teschovirus (PTV) is common swine pathogen which causes a wide range of illnesses ranging from asymptomatic infection to acute fatal encephalomyelitis, diarrhoea and pneumonia. Despite of its economical importance very limited studies are available on the pathology of PTV. The present study was conducted with the objective to investigate the PTV infection and associated pathology in piglets. 
 
Methods: A total of 78 piglets below 3 months of age were necropsied and representative tissue samples along with intestinal content were collected for histopathological examination and molecular investigation during April 2019 to November 2020. The 5&#39;&nbsp; UTR region of PTV was amplified via RT-PCR and further confirmed by sequencing. Thereafter, genetic characterization of the Indian PTV isolate was done on the basis of 5&#39; UTR gene.&nbsp; 
 
Result: A total of seven out of 78 cases were found positive for the PTV. On necropsy the intestinal wall was thinned and distended with yellowish coloured diarrhoeic content. Congestion of serosal and mucosal vessels along with severe meningeal congestion was observed. Microscopic lesions included congestion of mucosal vessels and destruction of villous structure of jejunum along with perivascular cuffing, focal gliosis, neuronophagia, congestion of meningeal and cerebral vessels and interstitial pneumonia. The phylogenetic analysis revealed that the isolate PTV/India/IVRI-381/2020 (MW022462) and PTV/India/IVRI-1093/2020 (MW022463) were clustered with PTV-13 strain wild boar/WB2C-TV/2011/HUN (JQ429405) and PTV-2 strain Vir 6711-12/83 (AF296107) of Hungary and Germany respectively. This study reported the genotypic and pathological investigation of PTV from Indian piglets. Further explorative surveillance along with studies in suitable cell lines and animal model will pave the way for better understanding of PTV among Indian pigs.

Genetic Characterization and Pathology of Porcine Teschovirus (PTV) in India

<div>Background: FAffaMAlanCHArt (FAMACHA) is a technique for treating the animals infested with gastrointestinal parasites by using clinical anaemia as the determinant. The test is based on the assessment of colour variation of the conjunctival mucous membrane.&nbsp; 
 
Methods: In the present study FAMACHA has been standardized and used to correlate the anaemic status of goats with faecal egg count (gastro intestinal parasites) and blood profile. On the basis of FAMACHA score and faecal egg count, the goats were treated with benzimidazole compound and macrocyclic lactone.&nbsp;&nbsp; 
 
Result: The result indicated significant (P&lt;0.05) reduction in the faecal egg count of Haemonchus spp from 1200&plusmn;155.76 to 525&plusmn;75, Strongyloides spp from 469.57&plusmn;77.37 to 78.26&plusmn;33.83 and Eimeria spp from 900&plusmn;240.05 to 195.65&plusmn;55.34 respectively. FAMACHA score of anaemic goats improved from 4.08&plusmn;0.11 to 3.2&plusmn;0.13. Mean haemoglobin (g/dl), packed cell volume (PCV), red blood cell (RBC) and white blood cell (WBC) improved from 8.33 to 8.99, 22.66 to 24.86, 13.73 to 14.76 and 18029 to 19894, respectively which indicated clinical improvement. Highly significant (P&lt;0.01) correlation was observed between the FAMACHA score and the haemoglobin level. It could be concluded that FAMACHA is a very handy tool to detect anaemic status of the animals and correlate with gastrointestinal parasitic load.</div>