WHO reports suspected plague outbreak in Madagascar.

WHO reported that health officials are currently investigating a suspected outbreak of pneumonic and bubonic plague in the Southeastern region of Madagascar that resulted in 62 illnesses and 26 deaths. The cases, six of which have been confirmed, occurred in two adjacent districts in two neighboring regions —Befotaka district in Atsimo-Atsinanana Region and Iakora district in Ihorombe Region. These are the first cases to be reported in the area since 1950. Five of the cases were classified as pneumonic plague and the remaining as bubonic plague. Retrospective investigations revealed that the outbreak may have started in mid-August. The remote area of infection has allayed fears that be an it might be an international threat,but however calls for more surveillance to control situation The bacteria Yersinia pestis, is responsible for plague and maintain their existence in a cycle involving rodents and their fleas. In urban areas or places with dense rat infestations, the plague bacteria can cycle between rats and their fleas. Dog owners,keep pets safe and most especially importation of dogs must be restricted to prevent spread of infections. Use flea repellent for dogs,and rodent proof your homes and kennels.

Dog to human transmission of plague.

Plague is a serious and fatal bacterial infection caused by the bacteria Yersinia pestis. Humans can contract the disease from the bite of an infected flea. Rodents, including rats, often carry both the plague and the fleas that spread it. The most common type of plague seen throughout history is the bubonic plague, which is an infection of the lymph nodes, others are pneumonic plague, an infection of the lungs, and septicemic, which affects the blood. The incubation period is typically 2 to 8 days but the pneumonic plague symptoms can appear as soon as 1 day following infection.The symptoms of bubonic plague are 1)chills. 2)fever 3)seizures 4)muscular pain 5)enlarged lymph nodes especially in armpit,neck and groin area. The swelling of the site is called bubo and its found at site of flea bite. All forms of the plague require immediate treatment, as death can occur as soon as 24 hours after the first symptoms appear.Antibiotics such as streptomycin, gentamicin, doxycycline or ciprofloxacin are effective in treating the plague. The Symptoms of pneumonic plague are 1) severe cough. 2)fever. 3)difficulty in breathing 4)froth and bloody sputum 5)chest pain. All cases of pneumonic plague are fatal if left untreated and unlike other types of plague, individuals with pneumonic plague can spread the infection person-to-person through coughing, which sends tiny droplets carrying the bacteria airborne. A case of transmission of pneumonic plague from dog to owner and other 3 people was reported in morbidity and mortality weekly report (MMWR).Yersinia pestis was identified in a blood sample collected from a previously healthy, middle-aged man who was hospitalized with pneumonia, the patient was later diagnosed with pneumonic plague. The dog was tested posthumously by both PRC assay and culture with results positive for Y. pestis, two veterinary clinic employees who had contact with the sick dog, along with a woman who had contact with both the dog and its owner while they were ill, all subsequently developed illness and tested positive for Y. pestis or Y. pestis antibodies.Before developing symptoms,the woman had contact with the dog for 9 to 10 days and with its owner for 5 to 6 days. Two of the infected humans had been taking antibiotics for their symptoms before their illness was diagnosed and subsequently avoided hospitalization, all four of the infected humans recovered from the disease. Prompt diagnosis and onset of treatment gives a good prognosis.

Kenyan farmers develop taste for insects as drought hurts crops.

The knee-high dome on Ikung'u Kathimbu's farm in Weru village, eastern Kenya, shelters an unusual crop: a termite swarm. Kathimbu walks around the structure covered with banana leaves, drumming on a tin-like vessel and stamping his feet on the ground. Farmers' traditional crops have suffered here in recent years due to long periods of drought. Some are taking up construction work to supplement their income, while others like Kathimbu are harvesting insects whenever the rainy season is delayed. At this time of year, Kathimbu's farm should be sprouting with a waist-high maize crop. But only wilting cassava stems populate the parched terrain. "Five years ago I could store enough maize and beans in my granary to feed my family for seven months," said the father of six. "But now all my grain is depleted three months after the harvest, and only cassava is left." continue

The 80-15-5 Rule for equine health.

The 80-15-5 rule suggests that everything in life can be divided into groups of 80%, 15%, and 5%. It’s got a lot of applications and it works with horses and in equine medicine.This is what it means about 80% of all of the time, horses get along just great. If it’s a medical problem that’s afflicting the horse, he is going to get better 80% of the time, no matter what is done to him (as long as it’s not something that causes overt harm). Or, if you go out for a ride, about 80% of the time it’s going to be a lot of fun, and you’ll want to come back again soon. 15% of the time, a horse is going to need some help, if he’s got a medical problem, he might need some sort of medical treatment to help him recover. If he’s got a training issue, some new piece of equipment or some new exercise might just do the trick. The 5% of the time, you’re pretty much sunk. That’s the awful, insoluble, incurable 5%. The 5% where no matter what you do, your horse is in trouble. The training problem that no one seems to be able to fix. The health issue that can’t go away because there’s no cure. Your pretty young black foal turned grey. In 5% of the cases, the horse isn’t going to get better, no matter what is done. Think of what that means for any sort of intervention! You can give medicine or massage, antibiotics or aromatherapy, acupuncture or anti-inflammatories, and the condition is going to get better 80% of the time, which, of course, is just about one reason why you can find a proponent for just about any therapy. Because 80% of the time, your horse is going to improve following treatment, whether the treatment did anything or not. For 5% of anything, you’re just wasting time and money trying to fix the problem. But here, too, just about any therapy can be tried, because, after all, to quote, oh, pretty much everyone who tries to get you to use a therapy with a guilt trip, “Don’t you want to do everything you can to help your horse?” Of course that’s what you want. But in such cases, you’re really better off to just figure out how to deal with it, or move on. It’s for the rest of the cases—that 15% in which you can make a difference—that you’re going to need to do the right thing. And that’s where science comes in to help figure out what the right thing , because you don’t want to go about giving an ineffective therapy when your horse really needs one that works. The 80:15:5 rule, it sort of sets things in perspective.When it comes to horse care—heck, in many parts of life—I think that a lot of people are inclined to think about things being the worst that they can be.Even though most horses are pretty maintenance free, and most conditions get better, people tend to focus on the bad possibilities. source

Cutting TB drug dosage in half reduces hearing loss, maintains efficacy.

Researchers in the Netherlands have discovered that carefully reducing the recommended dose of amikacin and kanamycin by half could spare patients this side effect without sacrificing the regimen’s efficacy. Jan-Willem C. Alffenaar, PhD, PharmD, associate professor in the department of clinical pharmacy and pharmacology at the University of Groningen, and colleagues wrote in Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy. The aminoglycosides amikacin and kanamycin — two second-line injectable drugs for the treatment of multidrug-resistant (MDR)-TB — have both been associated with “profound and permanent” toxicity, with 8% to 37% of patients experiencing hearing loss and nephrotoxicity after taking them for any period of time, according to researchers. Prolonged treatment with the drugs and at higher doses may compound these problems. continue

Katmint for the good-life of cats.

A high School graduate Tyler Thompson wanted to give his cats a taste of the good life, so he developed Koop Brand. Though several other products will debut in 2017, the current products concentrate on natural, organic catnip — called Katmint — and goods and apparel for the cat owners. It's designed more for the relationship between cat and owner, and that's something unique in the market," he said. "They're all-natural products to give cats and humans a better life."The Koop Brand website features hoodies, T-shirts and posters with phrases like "cat vibes," "cats are dope," and "cats and also coffee." Comfortable clothes, coffee mugs and travel thermoses make up the bulk of the human products, because Thompson said he figures "with people who own cats, I'd say at least half are avid coffee or tea drinkers." "I'd stress the cohesiveness between the animal and the pet parent," he said. "We want to blur the line." continue

Cats influencing architecture in Taiwan.

Cats are gaining popularity in Taiwan and other parts of Asia, with Taiwanese cat owners spending $598.4 million on pet products and services yearly since 2011, a portion of which has gone toward cat-friendly apartment design. Companies provide design and architecture services that make homes a haven for cats, including special doors, shelves, walkways and passages just for cats. The cat business is booming. I don't remember it being like this three years ago," says Szuti Tsai, founder of Taipei-based ST Studio Design and the interior designer behind Mei Mei's flat. Since 2011 pet cat popularity has increased by 91% in Taiwan, with owners shelling out $598.4 million on pet-related products and services a year, according to the Council of Agriculture. "People who love their cats really do go a bit crazy for them," admits Tsai. Tsai, who had just adopted a cat, met her client in an online pet forum, where owners post questions and share advice. One user left an unusual message: he was looking for someone to design a minimalist apartment tailored to the needs of his two cats. Tsai made contact to offer her services."(The client) said his cats hated it when he closed the DOORS. They went crazy," says Tsai. "Cats actually need a lot more attention than people think. They want to know what you're doing at every moment." In order to solve that issue, Tsai knocked down the internal walls, and turned the apartment into an open-plan space, bar the bathroom. Furthermore, she opened up the WINDOWS to let in more natural light, offering the cats several spots for sunbathing,and on various walls Tsai built an elaborate system of ledges to serve as a cat playground, the layout of which can be adjusted to keep the pets interested. continue

Crickets as dog treat.

Cricket flour from Entomo Farms in Norwood now being used by Montreal company to make premium dog treats. Montreal startup Hexa Foods is banking on the belief that their pooches have no such qualms. The company makes premium dog treats with cricket flour from Peterborough County as their primary ingredient.An agronomist who specializes in animal nutrition helped the company develop the recipe for the treats. The crickets hail from Entomo Farms near Norwood, which raises crickets for human and animal consumption. Production is outsourced to St-Hyacinthe-based dog biscuit manufacturer Bio Biscuit.Available in banana-peanut and apple-cranberry flavours, the oven-baked treats have a suggested retail price of $9.99 for 80 grams and $16.99 for 160 grams.Cricket protein is also highly digestible, and the dogs -- that's the true test -- mostly love them. Crickets and mealworms are also being raised for human consumption as a healthy, nutritious alternative to chicken, pork, beef and fish.They emit fewer greenhouse gases and less ammonia than cattle or pigs and need significantly less land and water than cattle rearing. The bugs are roasted and can be consumed whole or ground into a very fine powder for energy bars, chips, cookies, pasta, bread and protein shakes. continue

Dogg app connecting dog owners.

When SLOBBR co-founders Michelle Fournier and Jonathan Lagasse tell dog owners about their 5-month-old app, the response is usually "What took you guys so long?!" Only recently available nationwide (it originally launched in Boston and New York), the free app is part Foursquare, part Facebook, part Instagram and 100 percent pup-friendly. SLOBBR allows dog owners to connect with one another by posting cute photos of their four-legged pals and discover recommended dog parks, restaurants, products and stores based on their geolocation. There’s a feel-good component as well. For every check-in, SLOBBR donates half a cup of Halo kibble to a local animal shelter or rescue group. Shake Shack announced its SLOBBR support with a tweet promising a free Pooch-ini—a dessert consisting of dog biscuits, peanut butter and vanilla custard—to Bostonians who show their SLOBBR app to the cashier. Dog owners checking into Boston area Kimpton Hotels receive a welcome bag filled with a SLOBBR-branded travel mug, locally sourced dog treats and recommendations of where to take their canine while in town. Tito’s Vodka, which also runs the program. continue

Fowl pox .

Fowl pox is a diseases of economic importance in poultry because it causes drop in egg production and high mortality rate in layer flock.The disease is a slow-spreading one, characterized by the development of skin lesions on the unfeathered skin of the head, neck, legs and feet (dry pox). All ages are susceptible to fowl pox infection except recently hatched chicks, but the incidence is variable among flocks, dependent on management systems. In high-density, multiple-age farms, the disease may persist for long periods of time despite preventive vaccinations. The virus-containing crusts /scabs from skin lesions contaminate the environment and facilitate mechanical transmission of the virus between birds.The virus persists in the environment and may later infect susceptible birds by entering the skin through minor abrasions. In a contaminated house, the aerosol generated by feathers and dry scabs containing pox virus particles provide suitable conditions for both skin and respiratory infection. Inhalation or ingestion of virus, or virus-infected cells shed from skin lesions, can lead to the wet form of the disease. The wet pox lesions are associated with the upper digestive and respiratory tracts, especially the larynx and trachea and the Wet pox is the more serious form of the disease, with higher mortality in flocks. Wet pox alone cause high mortality of up to 50–60% in unvaccinated flocks. In layers, the disease causes a drop in egg production and reduces growth and development in young chicks and pullets. The infection spreads easily from bird to bird, cage to cage, and through ingestion of standing water in drinkers. Insects can serve as mechanical vectors of pox viruses, spreading infection by depositing virus in the eyes of birds or by biting birds. Fowl pox vaccine spilled inside the house during vaccination can produce pox lesions on exposed birds.The mucous membranes of the trachea and mouth are highly susceptible to the virus, and infection may occur in the absence of apparent injury or trauma. Clinical signs and lesions depend on the type of infection, in the dry pox there are Proliferative nodules on unfeathered skin areas of head, neck, legs and feet. Skin lesions vary in appearance, depending on the stage observed starting with papule, then vesicle, pustule and crust /scab at late stage. There is Cutaneous eye and mouth lesions which interfere with the bird’s ability to eat and drink. Birds are weak with reduced egg production with low mortality in uncomplicated cases. In the Wet Pox: Cankers yellowish lesions occur on mucous membranes of mouth, esophagus or trachea.Lesions in the nasal cavity or conjunctiva of eye lead to nasal or ocular discharge Reddened (hemorrhagic) tracheas. Lesions can interfere with eating, drinking and breathing; wet pox involving the trachea can result in high mortality due to impairment of breathing.Birds are unthrifty with reduced egg production. Mortality due to suffocation, starvation and dehydration. No treatment only prevention by vaccination,however management protocols such as these are important;1)Dust control. 2)Effective insect control programme. 3) Biosecurity programme to prevent movement of outside contaminated personnel and equipment from entering chicken houses. 4) Iodine disinfectant added to the water in the face of a fowl pox outbreak can reduce mortality and slowing the spread of the virus. The common practice on the farm is to isolate the birds with scabs,then cut pustule open and clean with iodine and apply gentian violet to cover it and birds are placed on a mixture of pox cure.

Hot weather has no link to salmonella in poultry farms.

The high rise in environmental temperature attributed to global warming has been linked to the spike in salmonella infection in poultry farms. The term that heat was the culprit for rise in cases took the responsibility off biosecurity breeches until a new research proved otherwise. Eggs and egg products have been associated with an increased risk of Salmonella contamination,mainly because of the preference of free range eggs by consumers has increased.Birds raised in the free range production system are exposed to weather extremes, because the free range environment is not as easily controlled as in cage .It was then assumed that hot weather had a role to play in the potential contamination of eggs at the site of free range egg production. The research conducted by the University of Adelaide shows there is no greater risk of Salmonella contamination in the production of free range eggs in Australia due to hot summer weather, compared with other seasons. Researchers at the University's School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences say that the hygiene around egg handling in the supply chain and in household and restaurant kitchens is critical to reducing food poisoning from eggs. Researchers conducted a study of four Australian commercial free range egg farms, with the results showing that the types and levels of Salmonella found in and around free range egg farms, and on the eggs themselves, is highly variable, often dependent on the specific husbandry and management practices employed by each farm.

Monkey consumption ‘a threat’ to mankind

Monkey consumption ‘a threat’ to mankind: The consumption of monkey meat could be threatening our existence, primatologist Cleve Hicks has warned.

Ostrich meat processor embraces new technology

Ostrich meat processor embraces new technology: One of the world’s largest ostrich meat processors, Klein Karoo, says a decision to launch industry-leading technology across its operations has brought “huge benefits” by simplifying traceability.

New Malaria Vaccine Shows Efficacy, Safety in Humans.

A new malaria vaccine has shown efficacy in humans, the next-generation vaccine uses a weakened form of a malaria parasite according to a new study published in Science Translational Medicine. Researchers of the vaccine called GAP3KO might have achieved a milestone in malaria vaccine development. The study, as reported in medicalnewstoday.com reveals that GAP3KO stimulated an effective immune response against the deadly malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum, without causing any serious side effects. The researchers weakened P. falciparum by removing three genes that the parasite needs in order to enter the bloodstream, infect humans, and cause illness. The scientists in the study gave mice a rodent version of GAP3KO. They found that it protected against malaria infection when the mice were later exposed to an unmodified version of P. falciparum.continue

Researchers implant the first 3D-printed blood vessels into monkeys.

Scientists at Sichuan Revotek and the Regenerative Medicine Research Center of West China Hospital at Sichuan University have successfully embedded 3D-printed blood vessels into simian test subjects. The vessels, which are made of stem cell-based organic material, were a major breakthrough in vascular regeneration. the system uses “stem cell bioink, which was prepared from the autologous adipose mesenchymal stem cells (ADSCs) of the monkeys.” Essentially the material came from the monkeys themselves and were not subject to organ rejection. The process involves creating a 3D-printed scaffold of biological material that grafts to natural blood vessels and are virtually indistinguishable from the monkey’s natural organs. This means that real, usable organs and be printed and implanted in a few hours with minimum invasiveness.continue

Agribusiness on Olx.

The world is indeed a global market,where you can close a deal from anywhere in the world with innovative technology. Marketing was a difficult aspect of enterprise,basically because reaching out was cumbersome and expensive,but today with online marketing,banking and advertisement you can sell,buy transfer,trade from the comfort of your room to the world. The future of commerce is mobile technology,connecting various platforms to transact your business and make money.These platforms usually have a store,where you can advertise your stuff,add a link to your site or social media and in a jiffy customers throng your site and buy your products. In the world of reality TV,its ironic that business has gone virtual with virtual offices,virtual assistants and wait for it; virtual shopping.This concept is fast gaining recognition with big players from different work spaces taking a piece of the pie. Agribusiness has jumped on the train with farmers connecting other farmers,traders and customers in a virtual market to sell farm produce.The story of Mr Bett is amazing,he used the power of the internet to sell his cattle on Olx. He decided to sell his cattle on Olx,and he was surprised at response of people to advert as he sold out fast and with profit .Mr Bett had marketing challenge because of brokers that usually demand high percentages which affects the profit margin but with Olx the brokers are not involved in the transaction. Smart agribusiness will mean innovative methods of production,packaging,distribution ,marketing and sales. The Olx manager has this to say

Reading to lead.

This is rather strange,"reading to lead" or just the way life works? i guess im going with the 2nd option. Reading broadens your horizon,more like it enlarges your coast. Leaders are reader,they feed off different stuff, spiritual, science,fiction,sensual,technology,futurism,health and politics,yes a leader is a pot-potpourri of sort. The leader's perception of stuff is so different,a kind of the ink blob stuff viewing life,situations differently and harnessing the wisdom therein. Vision 2017, get all the help you need from leaders,go places with them,feel their rhythm and just go with the flow. Reading is a great way to tune-in to leaders and glean from them and in this internet era,you have access to these great leaders through their books,E-books,tapes,blogs and social media so as you aspire connect and reach out success is sure. Success made easy using books,just "copy and paste" meaning read books,do whats in it and apply. WELCOME TO THE BOOK-CLUB.!!!

Toxicity in the veterinary profession.

Toxicity exists in several workforce,but veterinary teams exhibit more toxicity than any other work force.Toxicity within work environments is more common than you’d think, appearing in just about every profession in the world. However, experts like Shawn McVey, MA, MSW, a frequent lecturer on veterinary workplace culture and owner of McVey Management Solutions, believes there’s more potential for toxicity in veterinary medicine than other fields—even other healthcare professions. He recently shared his thoughts with dvm360 on the stressors unique to veterinary medicine that can generate toxic behaviors among veterinarians and team members. McVey’s first conclusion as to why veterinary medicine produces toxicity deals has to do with one of the hardest aspects of the job emotionally: death and dying. Veterinary teams deal with euthanasia of pets every day, along with death from illness and injury. “We’re the only healthcare profession that charges outright for what we do that is life-and-death-based,” McVey explains. “If a job is not life-and-death, it’s not as emotional.” The clients are Jekyll and Hyde(dual personality;good,bad/evil) “People come to us with beer budgets and champagne expectations for their animals,” McVey says. “The customer in veterinary practice has a tendency to be Jekyll or Hyde: They love their pets, but they can be nasty about having to pay for it.” Money, money, money the pet owners’ relationship with their veterinarian is similar to what parents have with their pediatrician. “The only difference,” McVey says, “is that most hospitals would take in a child and give it care, even if you didn’t have money.” The fact that veterinarians live primarily within a for-profit environment ensures that this isn’t always the case. This ends up splitting cracks in the floodgates, allowing toxicity to seep in. politics in the work place is another trend breeding toxicity,where there is a team with a leader not accepted by colleagues,not only will the office be toxic,the team will break off in fraction splitting your clientele. This toxicity will spill off on the clients as they will only allow specific personnel to handle their pets,and if peradventure another doctor handles their case all hell will be let lose. Emotional intelligence is the solution to this toxicity, doctors should actually be more sensitive with team building and working relationships. Reading the doctors take on work place toxicity,actually exposed the fact that this problem is universal. The techs and vets on each others throat,the client against the doctors and techs and a faction from all teams setting off the war plan. This year a detox is extremely necessary,getting away from this rubbish. continue

DETOX.

Detox,starting the year off with a cleanse. Detox are of various types,spiritual,physical and mental.The method of detox also varies with the type and most definitely the location of detox is very important. The year has just started and to set the course you need to do away with stuff,habits,thinking,baggage that has pulled you under or tried to slow you down.When you discover a weak spot,a poisonous growth what do you do? you flush it out,this is detox. We all have people around us that are stopping the flow,killing the vibe,destroying the dream,but we refuse to let go; this is the detox mode cutting off stuff,thats not part of my destiny.Toxicity like we know kills slowly or rapidly depending on concentration and length of exposure,so if you hang around toxic people slowly but surely you will be toxic yourself. The toxic folks dont actually know they are toxic because its their nature to curse, gossip, pull down others,discourage and kill dreams(dream-killers).They must always have the final say,shoving their opinions down your throat and ever ready to burst your bubble. These folks are everywhere, in your office,store,mall,saloon,neighborhood,just look around its so easy to pick them out. This year as you move towards excellence,making hay while the sun is out and running towards the mark, look around you and look out Nay-Sayers,Haters,Wannabe,cant do it folks and move up. The first assignment is to detox,yes its purging time. Lets detox!! dont let anyone dump trash on you,in you and around you. #cleanse #detox #pruning.

Boy with 'the world's largest head' has surgery to remove 3.7 LITRES of fluid from around his skull.

A young boy from India has undergone successful surgery to correct a condition which saw him possess the world's largest head. Mrityunjay Das, who is just seven months old and suffers from hydrocephalus, was relieved of nearly four litres of fluid, which inflated his face to the size of a watermelon. As a result, the diameter of the youngster's head has been reduced by 26 cm - from 96cm to 70cm - over six weeks of treatment. Hydrocephalus is a build-up of fluid in the brain.The excess fluid leads to increased pressure on the brain which can cause damage to the brain tissue. In the past, hydrocephalus was sometimes referred to as ‘water on the brain’ (the word hydrocephalus comes from the Greek words for water and head). However, the excess fluid is cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), not water. The main symptoms of hydrocephalus are: headache, nausea, vomiting, confusion and problems with vision (for example, blurred or double vision). Congenital hydrocephalus, present in babies when they're born, can be caused by birth defects,such as spina bifida where an infant's spine doesn't develop properly. It can also occur as a result of an infection the mother develops during pregnancy, such as mumps or rubella (German measles). If left untreated, it carries the risk of long-term mental and physical disabilities as a result of permanent brain damage. source

Fitness tracker for animals.

Fitness tracker has moved into veterinary medicine with the innovative device attached on cows to know their health status and location so as to give prompt care. The ear tags were for identification and proper record keeping initially but now the tags have been upgraded to perform more functions Colorado entrepreneur Melissa Brandao with her startup company HerdDogg, boasts of smart tags for smart cow.The removable tags are placed in the animal’s ear and they track steps and a lot more. The tags collect biometric data,its actually a little chip with a battery this means the health and wellness of the animal can be determined. The tags combine sensors and smart radio technology to deliver valuable information about the animal to a receiver or cell phone up to 30 feet away. The tags collect various information ,animals often hide their illnesses for days but the tags can detect problems immediately. The Herddogg system is made of 3 parts ;DOGGTAG EAR TAG The DoggTag which is attached to the ear of the herd animal has on-board smart radio and sensors. DOGGBONE READER The DoggBone is a small passive reader that collects the herd data at anytime and anywhere--no wifi, no cellular connection required. MOBILE/WEB When your cell phone is within range of the DoggBone or DoggTags you can connect and send the data to the cloud. The cloud stores animal histories and much, more. read

Adding dietary fat to pig feed does not decrease the digestibility of any minerals: researchers

Adding dietary fat to pig feed does not decrease the digestibility of any minerals: researchers: Supplementing pig diets with either saturated or unsaturated fat increases the digestibility of calcium, phosphorus, and sulfur in the diets, finds an industry backed study.

S-U-C-C-E-S-S , G-O-A-L S-E-T-T-I-N-G AND THE PARETO PRINCIPLE.(80/20)

The Pareto principle named after the Italian economist Vilfredo Pareto ,who noticed that people in society seemed to divide naturally into what he called the “vital few,” or the top 20 percent in terms of money and influence, and the “trivial many,” or the bottom 80 percent. 

 This actually holds true for all economic activity when subject to this principle,now this principle is used even on a personal note to achieve success. Goal setting with this principle will translate to 20 % of what you will do that will result in 80% of the success you achieve ,so as you put pen to paper start with the goals that will change your course dramatically.#driver Write out the end-point and work it out,setting your goals and mapping out the strategies while thinking about the key that will drive the other goals. 

The principle from another angle simply put is that; "only one key turns the lock,when you get in then you start decorating." Vision 2017,need one key to open up the chest of treasure,now when the box is open all other activities follow.

The point here is keep it simple with the mindset of S.M.A.R.T =Goal setting. The goals must be specific,measurable,achievable,relevant and definitely time-bound. 

The following steps with 80/20 principle will work: 1) write out the goals. 

 2)look at just one goal that will drive the rest. 

 3) set your heart on that goal by mapping out your strategies 4) Success is achieved.

Hyperbaric treatment in veterinary practice.

The use of oxygen at high levels for treatment in animals is another innovative way to relieve animals of certain conditions such as hasten wound healing,pancreatitis,arthritis e.t.c. The principle of use is that increased air pressure raises plasma-oxygen concentration thus allowing oxygen to diffuse into tissues at distances three to four times further and thus promotes healing. Hyperbaric treatment reverses tissue hypoxia, eliminates edema by vasoconstriction, stimulates neovascularization and reduces re-perfusion injury by enhancing the activity of oxygen scavengers. It increases white-blood-cell killing activity thus having antibacterial function. The treatment time usually ranges from 45 minutes to two hours, with two to three treatments a day for about five to 10 days are given for most patients but with a minimum four hours interval between each treatment. Some patients also benefit from follow-up treatments after discharge from the hospital to ensure a healthy status. A study has shown accelerated neurological recovery with hyperbaric therapy and improved survival rate in dogs after 15 minutes of complete global cerebral ischemia (Takahashi et al., "Hyperbaric oxygen therapy accelerates neurologic recovery after 15-minute complete global cerebral ischemia in dogs," Crit. Care Med. 1992 Nov; 20(11) 1588-94). Hyperbaric Veterinary medicine are originators of the hyperbaric small- animal veterinary hyperbaric chamber, which they have used to treat for various conditions such as burns,envenomation,diskospondylitis, gastrointestinal bleeding,wounds from dog bites,peritonitis,radiation healing and kidney issues. The pictures below show a dog with rattle snake bite before and after treatment with hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Unbelievable ? but very possible. This is a paradigm shift,see more

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy.

The body needs oxygen to function obviously for without breath there is no life.The body gets the required oxygen from the atmosphere mainly from the photosynthesis process of plants. The normal uptake of oxygen can be disturbed in disease conditions such as in chronic obstructive respiratory disease, asthmatic attacks, heart failure ,sleep apnea and pneumonia. The deprivation of tissues and muscles of adequate oxygen can lead to certain conditions such as cancers ,which recent research shows they thrieve in areas of low oxygen tension. When the immune system suffers from a lack of oxygen,the body has to work much harder to combat opportunistic bacteria, parasitic infections, and colds as well as flu. People with low oxygen in their systems usually show any of these signs or a combination of some of them 1)bronchial problems. 2) high acid in stomach/poor digestion. 3) irritability. 4) irrational behavior/depression. 5) memory loss. 6 )muscle aches and pains. 7 ) circulation problems. 8) fatigue, and general body weakness. How will you know if you are oxygen starved or if your cells are longing for more oxygen? then use this free tool to stay on top.See The oxygen is usually supplied through breathing tubes and pipes. Physicians are taking the use of oxygen to another level by using it at high temperatures to treat wounds and severe infections.The hyperbaric therapy is the term used to describe the use of oxygen at high levels to teat wounds and infection and it has found a place in veterinary practice.

Diarrhoea in goats.

Diarrhoea is usually a sign of an underlying condition,its not a disease on its own. Diarrhoea is usually from infectious or non infectious origin,but whatever the cause the consequences are severe and usually fatal in young animals if untreated. The common causes of diarrhoea in goats are worms,coccidia,E.coli ,salmonella, viruses and nutritional factors and the treatment is based on identifying the root cause and treating accordingly.The goats are usually weak, with inappetence,fever and pasty feces. The color,component and odor of the feces also defer depending on the cause of the diarrhoea. Prevention is usually by good bio security protocols such as cleaning pens regularly,proper waste management , keep farm rodent-proof, isolation of new animals to farm before mixing with old stock and the preventive protocols such as deworming,and provision of uncontaminated feed. Treatment is based on the cause of the diarrhoea and also using the follow steps ; 1) separate the sick ones from the others. 2) give fluid to replace lost electrolyte. 3) use of kaolin.

White muscle disease in goats.

This is common in rapidly growing heavily muscled kids usually from does on a ration deficient in selenium or vitamin E or a combination of both . The kids are usually weak because they have poor suckling reflex,the gait is unsteady as there is stiffness ,exhibited by arched back. The kids often unable to use the hind limbs as disease progresses as it has sprawled out appearance , other signs are respiratory distress often leading to death. Prevention is basically providing a balanced ration with minerals and supplements,while treatment will be by provision of selenium and vitamin E.

New status for the mesentery.

Researchers have muted an idea that a part of the digestive system should be upgraded to an organ status. The mesentery according to a new medical journal report, a connective tissue that winds around our digestive organs, holding them in place isn’t a fragmented structure as once thought, but actually one contiguous structure. “The anatomic description that had been laid down over 100 years of anatomy was incorrect. This organ is far from fragmented and complex,” said study author J. Calvin Coffey, from the University of Limerick, Ireland, in a press statement. “It is simply one continuous structure,” winding from the small intestine down to the rectum. Medically speaking, an organ is self-contained and has a very specific vital job – think brain, kidneys and heart. Many, but not all, organs have a distinct functional unit, the study authors wrote in the Lancet Gastroenterology & Hepatology journal. But there are still many questions about how the mesentery functions. “The functional unit of the mesentery is unknown, and whether a distinctive cell type is primarily responsible for its functionality should be investigated,” they said. continue

Hand-foot-mouth disease.

The hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) is a viral infection, caused by viruses that belong to the Enterovirus genus (group). This group of viruses includes polioviruses, coxsackieviruses, echoviruses, and enteroviruses. 

Coxsackievirus is the most common cause of HFMD. HFMD is typically a benign and self-limiting disease, and most common in young children.It is spread to others by close personal contact, coughing or sneezing or by contact with contaminated objects and surfaces 

 The signs are fever, oral lesions and rash on the hands, feet and buttocks. The oral lesions consist of rapidly-ulcerating vesicles on the buccal mucosa, tongue, palate and gums. The rash consists of papulovesicular lesions on the palms, fingers and soles, which generally persist for seven to 10 days, and maculopapular lesions on the buttocks. 

 The spread can be difficult to curtail in schools, closely knitted living communities and day-cares, although it is not all cases are serious, the infection can cause significant pain while eating, walking and writing. more

Canada reports first human case of H3N2v influenza.

On Dec. 16, WHO was notified of a confirmed human case of influenza A(H3N2) variant virus in Canada. The case developed respiratory infection symptoms on Oct. 24, was hospitalized on Nov. 8 with the diagnosis of pneumonia, and has recovered, according to the Influenza at the Human-Animal Interface Report. The exact location in Canada was not listed in the report. This is the first human case of A/Indiana/08/2011-like H3N2v influenza virus infection reported to WHO from Canada. Human infection with influenza A(H3N2)v viruses detected elsewhere have typically resulted in mild disease, although some have been hospitalized and at least one A(H3N2)v associated death has been reported. The case has confirmed exposure to ill swine on a farm. Animal health and epidemiological investigations are ongoing. Partial sequence analysis of all 8 gene segments of the virus isolated from the case indicates they are closely related to influenza A(H3N2) swine influenza viruses currently circulating in swine in North America. Influenza A(H1N2) and A(H3N2) viruses circulate in swine populations in many regions of the world. Depending on geographic location, the genetic characteristics of these viruses differ. Most human cases are exposed to the swine influenza viruses through contact with infected swine or contaminated environments. Human infection tends to result in mild clinical illness, although some cases have been hospitalized with more severe disease and one fatal case has been reported. Since these viruses continue to be detected in swine populations, further human cases can be expected. source

Korean authorities investigate suspect Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease case.

Officials in the Ulsan Metropolitan City, South Korea’s seventh largest metropolis, are investigating a suspected Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD) in a 40-year-old school employee, according to local media .In Korea, a woman in her 50s who was diagnosed with CJD for the first time in November 2011 and subsequently died . In January 2013, the second death in Korea was confirmed. According to the report. the case was identified in mid-December and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and electroencephalography (MRI) testing performed at the hospital revealed that the patient was suspected of having CJD. In Ulsan, three people were suspected of having CJD last year, and health authorities are conducting epidemiological investigations. CJD is a rare brain disease that affects approximately one person per million people worldwide per year when CJD occurs a normal brain protein changes into an abnormal form called a “prion” and accumulates in brain cells. CJD can occur sporadically, from genetic mutation, or it can be acquired. It is not easily transmitted from person to person. There is no specific treatment or therapy that has been shown to stop the progression of the disease. Diagnosis for CJD is not easy as Physicians often make a presumptive diagnosis of CJD using typical signs, symptoms and progression of the disease. Testing of the cerebrospinal fluid can indicate CJD; however, a confirmed diagnosis of CJD requires testing of brain tissue obtained either at biopsy or autopsy Source 6

Coca-Cola turns label waste into 90 million Smartwater bottles

Coca-Cola turns label waste into 90 million Smartwater bottles: Coca-Cola European Partners (CCEP) has partnered with Avery Dennison, Viridor and PET UK to turn label waste into products, including the production of 90 million nutrient-fortified Smartwater bottles.

French group: Vitamin D-linked infant death not a supplement issue; Health Minister agrees

French group: Vitamin D-linked infant death not a supplement issue; Health Minister agrees: The French food supplements trade group Synadiet has clarified that the Uvestérol D vitamin D product linked to an infant death before Christmas was a prescription-only medicine and not available as a food supplement to the public.

Goat polio.

Goat polio also referred to as polioencephalomalcia in goats is as a result of vitamin B1 deficiency usually occurs when goat is fed high level of grain and low roughage diet.The goats have uncoordinated movements,muscle tremors and rigidity. There is circling, staggering and apparent blindness, diarrhoea and a star gazing stance which is characteristic sign of the condition. Goat polio if untreated could result in death within 24-72 hours with convulsions and fever characteristic of fatal stage. The conditions can be treated by vitamin B1 injection alongside penicillin with plenty of water to drink.

Backyard Birds Culled After Bird Flu Outbreak in Wales.

The Chief Veterinary Officer for Wales has confirmed Avian Influenza H5N8 in a backyard flock of chickens and ducks on a premises near Pontyberem, Carmarthenshire. Prior to confirmation it was decided to cull the birds on strong suspicion of disease. A 3 km Protection Zone and 10 km Surveillance Zone have been put in place around the infected premises, to limit the risk of the disease spreading and as part of the wider surveillance and disease control measures. The prevention zone across all of Wales, which requires all keepers of poultry and other captive birds to keep their birds indoors, or take appropriate steps to keep them separate, and protect them from wild birds, still remains in place, as does the temporary suspension on gatherings of poultry.

Deworming in ruminants and parasite resistance.

Deworming farm animals is part of preventive protocol to ensure the animals are healthy but years of overuse and abuse of dewormers is a major concern because of the development of resistance by worms, lice and blowflies to many of the chemicals used to control them. Farmers administer dewormers to their livestock to enhance growth and productivity, but with continued use, parasites have grown increasingly resistant to many of these drugs, forcing farmers to seek out alternative drugs or rely on their own concoctions for parasite control. Farmers are seeking out herbal interventions alongside rotating dewormers to beat the resistant parasite. A change in management practices such as prompt clearing of fecal material which is the source of eggs of the parasite as there is a constant infection and reinfection especially when animals are grazing in areas with high fecal material,but if grazing area is rotated allowing time for new grasses to grow it will limit contact with fecal matter and hence parasite eggs. Deworming animals based on the fecal tests carried out to determine the types of parasites present and worm load will prevent blind-deworming using drugs not specific for herd. This fecal analysis will also provide a template for a proper deworming routine. The mixing of young and older animals should be prevented as the younger ones are highly susceptible to infections and are a constant source of infection as in primary infection in young grazing animals during their first exposure. An ideal parasite monitoring schedules and non-chemical strategies such as nutrition, genetics and pasture management will help ensure health and productivity. The environment must be clean with fecal matter away from stalls to prevent flystrike which is caused by blowflies attracted to smelly, warm, moist environments such as feces build ups sweaty, moist skin folds and open wounds.

Common causes of pruritus in cats.

Cats like any other animal do get itchy but unlike dogs the response of cats to various allergens varies so also does the type and site of of the lesions. The basis of diagnosis of pruritus in cats will lean much more on history, and lesion sites . A complete and detailed history of the cat's activities,disease-record,food,medication grooming,frequency of walks,nature of environment and basically the behavioral pattern. The history can reveal if the cat's pruritus is seasonal or not, if seasonal there is no need to perform a food trial but if the pruritus is not seasonal, you need to perform a food trial. Cats with allergies dont show pododermaitis as dogs would, rather cats showing pododermatitis have an underlying case caused by Pemphigus foliaceus. Age of the cat is also a factor in diagnosing the cause of the itch, kitten rarely have atopy and cats older than 6 months with pruritus usually have an underlying fungi or parasitic infection. Cats are sensitive to bites and stings especially mosquito bites,with hypersensitivity in some cases resulting in dermatitis in the paws,ears and nares. History of cats with hypersensitivity to mosquito bites is important to prevent misdiagnosis. The picture shows a cat with hypersensitivity to mosquito bites. Common causes of pruritus in cats are 1) food allergy; this can occur at any age,so do not rule out this in an old cat.If the itching is seasonal you dont need a food trial but if not seasonal you will need a food trial.A change of diet for about 12 weeks will resolve it. 2) parasites; cats that go outdoors a lot are prone to flea allergies,this is the most common cause of pruritus in cats with a lot of outdoor activities. The pruritus is usually on the dorsal and lumbar region. Keep the cats in doors,use topical flea control and clean the environment using flea control measures. 3)Pemphigus foliaceus this is an autoimmune disorder with lesions in nail-beds,nipples and ears.

WSU veterinary professor named to National Academy of Inventors.

Katrina Mealey developed test for potentially fatal gene mutation in dogs.Washington State University professor Katrina L. Mealey, DVM, PhD, has been elected a fellow of the National Academy of Inventors—a prestigious group of scientists that includes 27 Nobel laureates. She discovered the MDR1 gene mutation and is the inventor of a subsequent genetic test for the mutation. Knowing a dog has the mutation can prevent it from being given potentially fatally toxic medications. Mealey also launched the Program in Individualized Medicine (PrIMe) at WSU, a coordinated research effort that optimizes drug therapy for individual veterinary patients. The academy cited Mealey for demonstrating “a highly prolific spirit of innovation in creating or facilitating outstanding inventions that have made a tangible impact on quality of life, economic development and the welfare of society.”

Improving cattle health and milk yield with cow mattress.

Dairy business is very lucrative but poor management practices can result in losses due to low milk production, death ,mastitis and lameness. The key to a success farm operation is the comfort of the cows as the more comfortable they are the higher the milk yield and productivity.The health status of cows are also important as only healthy,genetically proven breeds and properly fed cows can produce calves and hence milk. A dairy farm where the genetics,nutrition and medication are excellent then the comfort of the cows is next priority. Cows are made comfortable and produce more milk when placed on cow mattresses.The mattress are made from recycled tyres and are of various sizes which are treated with anti-fungal and anti-bacterial agents that make them safe for the animals. They have a special texture pattern that ensures cows do not slip or fall, even when wet .The tyres provide more comfort than hay straw or cemented floor,the mattress also prevents repeated falling or slipping on the bare floor thus preventing lameness which can result to culling the cow. Mastitis is the biggest problem encountered by dairy farmers,the inflammation of the udder has been linked to infectious agents in the farm arising mainly from contamination of teats with with dirt,fecal matter and urine.The introduction of cow mattress prevents mastitis as the cow shed is clean and cows are laying on clean rubber mats that are easy to wash and clean. The mattress offer long term comfort by giving cows maximum time for resting and relaxing and this time allows them to undergo natural body processes such as increased blood supply to the teats and the udder. This guarantees a higher milk yield and healthier animals that increase the profits. These mattresses can also be used in horses to prevent lameness resulting from repeated falling in the stables. Heat stress is also another common factor resulting in poor milk yield due to reduced productivity as a result of poor feed intake.The installation of water sprinklers in the cow shed will go a long way to cool the animal down . The incorporation of yeast in feed as well as increasing energy density of feed coupled with serving cool fresh water at all times.

Factors affecting colostrum quality and utilization in calves.

There are factors that determine if newborn calves are getting enough colostrum and this also depends on the cow and the quality of the colostrum. Calves that does not receive an adequate amount of high quality colostrum immediately after calving may then be subject to an increased risk of morbidity and decreased growth rate and lifetime milk production. The following factors are to be considered when attempting to achieve maximum benefits from colostrum and hence improve health and performance of calves; 1) feeding method: Leaving calves to nurse from their mothers can cause extreme problems with colostrum and immunoglobulin consumption. Approximately 25-40% of calves that nurse from the dam do not consume an adequate amount of high quality colostrum because calves tend to drink small quantities after birth. This inadequate consumption allows bacteria to enter and multiply in the intestine, causing mortality that may lead to death. Calves do not want to consume the recommended amount of colostrum right after birth because they do not usually have a strong drive to nurse, or because the calf might not physically be able to consume colostrum because of the birthing process resulting in internal bruising to the organs or broken bones. When this occurs, esophageal feeders can be used to ensure calves receive an appropriate amount of quality colostrum. It is recommended that calves be removed from their dam no longer than two hours after parturition when fed via bottle or esophageal feeder. Feeding calves with the use of an esophageal feeder or 'tube' can damage the oral tract so carry out procedure with care. 2) cleanliness: this refers to the absence of bacteria in colostrum. This can be ensured by carry out these practices ; Thoroughly wash your hands before milking the cow. • Prepare the udder as you would before milking by cleaning. • Milk into a clean, sanitized bucket. • Do not feed colostrum from known infected cows. • Do not pool raw colostrum. • Feed calves using only clean, sanitized bottles or buckets and nipples. • Do not let colostrum sit at room temperature; feed it, refrigerate it or freeze it within one hour of collection. 3) cow's health status: the health of the cow is very important as pathogen exposure is crucial in regards to dam health and colostrum quality. Cows that have been exposed to higher amounts of pathogens are more likely to have higher immunoglobulin levels. Pathogen exposure and age are highly correlated due to the fact that older cows tend to be exposed to a greater number of pathogens. However, there is also a risk in feeding calves raw maternal colostrum because pathogen exposure occurring before calves have developed immunity can affect mortality and morbidity. Mycoplasma spp, Escherichia coli, and Salmonella spp are infectious agents that can cause scours and septicemia in calves by being shed from the udder or by mishandling and storing raw colostrum.

How to stop heat stress in cattle using yeast and antioxidants.

Heat stress is a growing issue for high producing cattle but rumen specific live yeast and antioxidants can counteract the effects of this problem. Heat stress can cost dairy or beef farmers a large amount of money, due to production losses in milk and growth. 

 In dairy cows, the first short-term impact of heat stress is the reduction of milk yield ,about 10 to 35% reduction is usually recorded and acidosis risks are also increased. While in beef, fattening cattle are the most sensitive to heat stress with consequences such as increased acidosis risks and the reduction of feed intake, especially lower fiber consumption, which translates into lower growth performance and behavioral changes as producers often see less calm but more nervous animals. 

 A study shows that fattening heifers in the shade had a 100 g/day increase in average daily weight gain, as compared to those with no shade, due to higher feed intake in the shade. Moreover, these animals were less stressed and showed less carcass defaults such as dark meat. 

 The Long term consequences can arise on animal health, immune function or reproduction, especially as heat stress generally increases the production of free radicals, leading to oxidative stress. Oxidative stress in dairy cows can lead to increased mastitis frequency and higher somatic cell counts in milk. It can also cause decreased fertility, increased embryo mortality, post-partum retained placenta and early calving, with consequences on the calves’ live weight, mortality and health. Rumen specific live yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae I-1077, considered as a rumen modifier, can help alleviate the impact of heat stress. In particular, its ability to help stabilize rumen pH and enhance fiber degradation in the rumen is particularly adapted to respond to heat stress challenges. Several trials showed good results in both dairy and beef cows. 

 Trials with a nutritional supplement , an antioxidant combination containing organic selenium, and a natural primary antioxidant source showed that the animal’s total antioxidant status (TAS) is improved, translating into: reduced somatic cell count in milk by 40-60%, a sign of enhanced immunity (also shown on dairy goats) and improved meat quality parameters in cattle. 

 There are other nutritional recommendations that can help combat heat-stress in cattle ,these are:1) Increase the energy density of the diet. 2) Add more starch or added fat to the diet as fat is not fermented in the rumen, hence does not release heat during digestion. 3) Mineral electrolytes balance must be maintained as excessive sudation, or panting, leads to losses of sodium and potassium. 4) Provide clean fresh water at all times but most especially after milking. 

 source Dairy Global.

Colostrum and piglet health.

Piglets are the seed of the farm,thus next generation depends on the health status of these piglets. Piglets are the seed capital of any farm,as they have it all in them to become full value pigs or great replacement gilts. The breeding of high numbers of healthy piglets ensures a sound financial future and continuity of farm but it takes a lot of work to ensure the piglets are healthy. The piglets are very vulnerable to diseases,changes in temperature,and other environmental conditions thus making them the weakest link on the farm. Piglets must be properly taken care of from day one until they are weaned. The first line of action is to ensure the piglets are clean and kept warm,this must be followed by ensuring colostrum is given so as to confer immunity on piglets through to weaning . Piglets are born without any immune protection and it takes a couple of weeks before they can build their own active immunity. The only way to protect them in these critical weeks is through passive immunity supplied by the sow. Colostrum is the first milk secreted,and a sufficient colostrum intake in the first hours after birth is one of the most important success factors for pig performance. Colostrum does not only provide the vital energy and proteins essential for the piglets to start suckling and to grow, it is also enriched with the maternal antibodies (immunoglobulins) which provide passive immunity. Naturally, maternal antibodies are built when a sow gets infected with a pathogen. A safer and more consistent way to induce maternal antibodies is by sow vaccination. Colostrum intake depends on the amount of colostrum produced by the sow and the ability of the piglet to suckle as colostrum excretion starts shortly before parturition and ends about 24 hours after farrowing. The first 6 hours are critical, and after 24 hours the gut closes not allowing the immunoglobulins to be absorbed. In contrast to milk yield, colostrum yield is not related to litter size, so the larger the litter the lower the amount of colostrum per pig . A study revealed that up to one third of the sows do not produce enough colostrum to cover the needs of all their piglets. Genetic factors have an influence on the potential of sows to produce colostrum and during gestation and around farrowing you can ensure that the sows can exploit that potential to a maximum. Sows with heavy litters at birth with little weight variation usually have a high colostrum yield. A good body condition of the sow during gestation and at farrowing will reduce within-litter variation in birth weight and prevents metabolic disorders which may cause mastitis and can lead to a reduced colostrum yield. Proper feeding from day 85 upwards is more relevant than in mid gestation as in late gestation new mammary tissue is produced and the piglet’s birth weight is established. The benefits of colostrum

Benefits of supplementing poultry diet with hatchery waste.

A recent research published in PlosOne shows that supplementing poultry diets with hatchery waste is beneficial to the birds as it enhances growth performance and confers immunity . The study has examined the effect of hatchery eggshell membranes (HESM) as a short term feed supplement on growth performance and immunity of chickens under bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) challenged conditions. Eggshells are a significant part of hatchery waste which consist of calcium carbonate crust, membranes, and proteins and peptides of embryonic origins along with other entrapped contaminants including microbes. The researchers of the University of Arkansas hypothesized that using this product as a nutritional additive in poultry diet may confer better immunity to the chickens in the paradigm of mammalian milk that enhances immunity. Three studies were conducted to find the effect of HESM supplement on post hatch chickens. In the first study, the chickens were fed either a control diet or diets containing 0.5% whey protein or HESM as supplement and evaluated at 5 weeks of age using growth, hematology, clinical chemistry, plasma immunoglobulins, and corticosterone as variables. The second and third studies were done to compare the effects of LPS on control and HESM fed birds at 5 weeks of age following at 4 and 24 h of treatment where the HESM was also sterilised with ethanol to deplete bacterial factors. HESM supplement caused weight gain in 2 experiments and decreased blood corticosterone concentrations. While LPS caused a significant loss in body weight at 24 h following its administration, the HESM supplemented birds showed significantly less body weight loss compared with the control fed birds. The result shows that post-hatch supplementation of HESM improve performance, modulate immunity, and increase resistance of chickens to endotoxin.

Genetic engineering unlocks new vaccine for Marek's disease.

Scientists at The Pirbright Institute have used genetic engineering to develop a more efficient and effective vaccine for Marek’s disease which could pave the way for a new generation of poultry disease vaccines. The Marek's disease vaccine (MDV) is currently controlled by vaccination and over 20 billion vaccine doses are administered worldwide each year. Turkey herpes virus (known as HVT), is widely used in the development of avian vaccines as a method of delivering elements of avian pathogens (disease causing agents), into birds to create the immune response that protects them against disease. The technologies currently available for creating HVT recombinant vaccines are difficult and time consuming to use, however. In the case of Marek’s disease, the existing methods also hinder the level of protection the vaccines can offer. Advances in technology have facilitated the development of a new gene editing technique called CRISPR/Cas9 (Clustered Regularly Interspaced Palindromic Repeats/ associated Cas9), which enables greater speed and accuracy in targeting, cutting and editing gene sequences. This technique was used by Dr Yongxiu Yao, to genetically modify HVT; inserting part of the Marek’s disease virus into it to generate a completely new genetically modified (GM) vaccine, which is capable of protecting against the most dangerous strains of the virus. Dr Yao said, “This was a great opportunity to create a new generation of vaccines. HVT is widely used in the production of a variety of avian disease vaccines and genetically engineering it in this way has unlocked its potential to protect against all strains of Marek’s disease virus, as well as other dangerous avian viruses such as bird flu, which is also a danger to humans.

OFFLU; the global network of expertise on animal influenza.

OFFLU is the OIE-FAO global network of expertise on animal influenza working to reduce the negative impacts of animal influenza viruses by promoting effective collaboration between animal health experts and with the human health sector. The animal health community will provide early recognition and characterization of emerging influenza viral strains in animal populations, and effective management of known infections, thereby better managing the risk to human health and supporting global food security, animal health and welfare, and other community benefits derived from domestic animals and wildlife. The objectives of OFFLU are as follows 1)To share and offer technical advice, training and veterinary expertise to international organisations and Member Countries to assist in the prevention, diagnosis, surveillance and control of animal influenza. 2) To exchange scientific data and biological materials (including virus strains) within the network, to analyse such data, and to share such information with the wider scientific community. 3)To collaborate with the WHO on issues relating to the animal-human interface, including pandemic preparedness for early preparation of human vaccine. 4)To highlight influenza surveillance and research needs, promote their development and co-ordination.more

OIE creates global avian influenza web portal.

The World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) has created a web portal on avian influenza to help public gain a better understanding of the international avian influenza situation.According to the OIE, gaining a better understanding of the disease, providing easy access to recommendations on how to control it, and raising awareness of the current global avian influenza situation are the main objectives for creating the portal. The new OIE portal on avian influenza brings together a wealth of information, enabling a greater understanding of the disease and detailing the biosecurity measures recommended by the OIE, at both the farm and trade level, to halt its spread. The platform describes the actions taken by the OIE and its partners. Indeed, the prevention and control of zoonotic influenza's is one of the three priorities of the alliance between the OIE, United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and the World Health Organization (WHO). During recent months, the avian influenza strain H5N8, in particular, has been in the news, having been successively identified in several regions of the world, particularly Europe and America, as well as Asia and the Middle-East. The new OIE portal allows us to follow this strain’s global evolution as well as the other H5 and H7 strains in real time. check it out

Forage grass could increase milk production by 40%.

A new reports states that African dairy farmers could benefit from new varieties of high-quality, drought-resistant forage grass known as Brachiaria that boosts milk production by 40 per cent.The forage grass could enable farmers increase their incomes, according to experts at the Colombia-headquartered International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT) – a CGIAR Research Center. The study demonstrates the high potential for improved forages in East Africa and high payoff for investment in improved forages. Brachiaria grass is climate-friendly and has high crude protein and less fiber, which leads to better use and digestion by cattle, in turn leading to less methane gas produced for each unit of livestock product such as milk or meat. Methane is one of the gases associated with global warming. The grass is relatively drought-tolerant compared to the Napier or elephant grass commonly used in East Africa and the grass can easily be conserved as hay for utilization during forages scarcity or for sale. The study shows that a 40% increase in milk production is achievable in East Africa after feeding livestock with Brachiaria,milk production increased by 150 per cent between 2004 and 2012, from 197.3 million litres to 497.9 million litres. continue

Veterinary services for rural dwellers.

Veterinary services make vital contributions to livestock supply chains, from farm to fork, and must be strengthened for the benefit of people, animals and the environment. Livestock play a pivotal role in income-generation, employment, food and nutrition security, transport, power and social cohesion for millions of people worldwide. Even small amounts of animal-source foods can contribute substantially to the nutritional profile of human diets, and by-products including manure, fiber and hides are used as fertilizer, building materials, fuel and clothing. 42 per cent of the world’s poor are reliant on livestock as a livelihood strategy and two thirds of the world’s poor livestock keepers are rural women, the unique multifunctionality of livestock is particularly significant to the lives of the world’s most vulnerable people.continue

Autism and the app intervention.

Autism is a mental condition that is evident from early childhood and characterized by great difficulty in communicating and forming relationships with other people and in using language and abstract concepts. Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by restricted and repetitive behavior,although the condition is heritable some school of thought believe that environmental factors also play a role. Early detection and intervention are very important in the management of the condition,the fact that many parents dont come to terms with the diagnosis or seek help immediately complicates the condition. Parents that are ready to face the situation are often handicapped because of lack of information ,as many dont know where to turn or whom to turn to for help. This is the story of Rebecca Keysers,whose son was diagnosed as having autism spectrum disorder and how this left her struggling to navigate her way and get the best help for him. The mother from regional New South Wales said after she found a path through and was able to access resources and services, she had many friends also facing a diagnosis who came to her asking, "What do I do now?" "That's when I decided there are so many families out there that get the diagnosis and are really unsure where to go and how to access therapies, early intervention, information and resources," Ms Keysers said. Despite having no former experience in creating a website or digital app, Ms Keysers decided to create what she said was an Australian-first, one-stop-shop to connect families and autism service providers. continue

A-S-P-I-R-E 2017

HAPPY NEW YEAR! HAPPY NEW YEAR !! HAPPY NEW YEAR !!!. Welcome to a great and power-packed year.The new year ushers in another opportunity to be better than you are right now and move to the next level. What is the next level and how do you get there? well this is another step on the success ladder,which you must climb to get to the success zone. The success zone is quite different for everyone as our definition of success defers,but one thing is common you must have a plan to get there. New year new resolutions all with the sole aim to get to the success zone,so as this year begins; begin by writing out what success zone is to you ,how you want to get there and when(time). This is the time to write out the vision,keep it in your face everyday and start running with it. GET READY!!!ITS GOING TO BE TOUGH,BUT YOU ARE STRONG AND GUESS WHAT ITS WORTH IT. I am writing an out-of-the-box post,for an awesome year because my expectations are high and i got my running shoes out,success is my only option. join me,lets do this.