Background: Aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) is a derivative of aflatoxin B1 and a significant contaminant of milk and dairy products. In this study, we implemented an umbrella review of all existing systematic reviews and meta-analyzing studies to apprise and summarize the worldwide prevalence and level of AFM1 in milk and dairy products. Methods: We conducted a systematic review of structured review and meta-analysis articles published in English until January 2024, with no time limit. Articles were sourced from reputable databases, including PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science, CINAHL and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. Relevant studies from Google Scholar were also included. Results: The overall prevalence of AFM1 in all dairy products was 66.2% (95% CI 60.6 to 71.9%), with high heterogeneity (I²=99.7%, Q statistic=2221.03, p<0.0001). The prevalence for specific dairy products was as follows: raw milk, 64.8% (95% CI 60.9 to 68.7%); pasteurized milk, 88.7% (95% CI 81.6 to 95.7%); sterilized milk, 71.0% (95% CI 67.2 to 74.8%); ultra-high temperature processing (UHT) milk, 67.9% (95% CI 64.9 to 70.9%); yogurt, 58.8% (95% CI 42.5 to 75.1%); doogh, 17.2% (95% CI 13.9 to 20.5%); and cheese 49.8% (95% CI 47.8 to 51.9%). The overall mean concentration of AFM1 across all dairy products was 57.22 ng/kg (95% CI 46.95 to 67.49), with significant heterogeneity (I²=99.7%, Q statistic=2221.03, p<0.0001). Mean AFM1 levels (ng/kg) for each dairy product were as follows: raw milk, 52.51 (95% CI 40.96 to 64.05); pasteurized milk, 71.14 (95% CI 48.81 to 93.47); sterilized milk, 60.10 (95% CI 30.90 to 89.30); UHT milk, 82.57 (95% CI 35.30 to 129.85); yogurt, 46.74 (95% CI 24.27 to 69.21); and doogh, 41.60 (95% CI 32.60 to 50.60). Conclusions: In total, these results highlight the importance of increasing the regulation of animal feed, reducing aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) in animal feed, and monitoring AFM1 in dairy products, particularly raw and heated milk.

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into health care has seen remarkable advancements, with applications extending to animal health. This article explores the potential benefits and challenges associated with employing AI chatbots as tools for pet health care. Focusing on ChatGPT, a prominent language model, the authors elucidate its capabilities and its potential impact on pet owners' decision‐making processes. AI chatbots offer pet owners access to extensive information on animal health, research studies and diagnostic options, providing a cost‐effective and convenient alternative to traditional veterinary consultations.The fate of a case involving a Border Collie named Sassy demonstrates the potential benefits of AI in veterinary medicine. In this instance, ChatGPT played a pivotal role in suggesting a diagnosis that led to successful treatment, showcasing the potential of AI chatbots as valuable tools in complex cases. However, concerns arise regarding pet owners relying solely on AI chatbots for medical advice, potentially resulting in misdiagnosis, inappropriate treatment and delayed professional intervention.We emphasize the need for a balanced approach, positioning AI chatbots as supplementary tools rather than substitutes for licensed veterinarians. To mitigate risks, the article proposes strategies such as educating pet owners on AI chatbots' limitations, implementing regulations to guide AI chatbot companies and fostering collaboration between AI chatbots and veterinarians. The intricate web of responsibilities in this dynamic landscape underscores the importance of government regulations, the educational role of AI chatbots and the symbiotic relationship between AI technology and veterinary expertise.In conclusion, while AI chatbots hold immense promise in transforming pet health care, cautious and informed usage is crucial. By promoting awareness, establishing regulations and fostering collaboration, the article advocates for a responsible integration of AI chatbots to ensure optimal care for pets.

Neospora caninum is an obligate intracellular protozoan that causes neurological disorders in dogs. This meta-analysis based review aimed to evaluate the risk factors associated with N. caninum infection in Iran.The relevant articles, published up to January 2021, have been searched from five English databases, including PubMed, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, Scopus, and Web of Science and five Persian databases namely, Element, Civilica, Magiran, Irandoc, and Scientific Information Database (SID). The odds ratio (OR) and the corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI)) were measured using random-effects model. A total of 549 articles were identified by the databases without setting any time limit, of which 28 papers met the evaluation criteria for this study. Age, gender, breed, presence of an intermediate host, habitat, and diet were the risk factors reported in Iranian studies. Dogs equal or below 1 year of age had higher infection compared to that of more than 2 years of age and the difference was statistically significant. In relation to types of habitats, household dogs had lower infection in comparison to stray and farm dogs and the difference was statistically significant. Dogs are important source of N. caninum infection. Therefore, the systematic analysis of the risk factors associated with N. caninum may help in prevention and control of neosporosis among the dog population.

The current study aims to assess the prevalence of different genera of Rickettsiales, intracellular bacteria, in dogs across various regions of Iran. Rickettsiales, as zoonotic pathogens, can have various manifestations in different species, including immunosuppression, anaemia and neuropathy. Due to their close interactions with people and livestock, dogs can serve as reservoirs and transmit these pathogens to humans and other animals. The data from this research can be valuable for managing and controlling related diseases and complications in Iran and possibly neighbouring countries. Pertinent data for this study was gathered without time limitations until 1 March 2022, from different databases. Of all the inspected studies, 26 were eligible based on the inclusion criteria. The Egger test result and asymmetry in the funnel plot revealed significant publication bias; therefore, the meta‐analysis model was corrected with the trim‐and‐fill method. After correction, the prevalence of rickettsial infections among dogs varies by genus – 20.1% for Anaplasma spp. and 10% for Ehrlichia spp. – with an overall prevalence estimated at 18.3% by random‐effects analysis. The highest and lowest estimated pooled prevalences were associated with the southwestern (38.5%) and southern (0.3%) provinces of Iran, respectively. The pooled prevalence of rickettsial infection was higher in female dogs (OR = 1.198; p < 0.978; 95% CI, 0.842–1.705) and in dogs ≤2 years (OR = 1.014; p < 0.312; 95% CI, 0.598–1.72), but the difference was not statistically significant. Ultimately, the pooled prevalence of rickettsial infections among dogs is relatively low compared to other countries like Qatar, Iraq, Saudi Arabia and Turkey, which are nearby Iran. Given the significant clinical outcomes of this disease, necessary measures for prevention should be taken.

Background Cutaneous Leishmaniasis (CL) is a tropical disease of public health concern, resulting from infection with Leishmania parasites and transmitted through the bite of infected female sandflies. Community awareness is an essential component of disease control and prevention. This study aimed to synthesize evidence on knowledge, attitudes, and practices about CL among the general population. Methods A comprehensive literature search was performed across multiple databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, EMBASE, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, Springer, and ProQuest for studies published in English up to January 2025. Search terms included both MeSH and free-text keywords related to KAP toward CL. The quality of included studies was assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale (NOS). Data were extracted, and a random-effects meta-analysis of proportions was applied for pooling of studies. Heterogeneity was explored through subgroup and sensitivity analyses. The certainty of the evidence was evaluated using the GRADE approach. Results Knowledge was assessed by 47 studies (n = 21,930), while attitude was assessed by 32 studies (n = 13,171), and practice was evaluated by 30 studies (n = 13,729) for CL. Overall, the general population had an estimated 54.5%(95% CI: 47.8 to 61.1) good knowledge of CL, with positive attitudes at 56.2% (95% CI: 48.5 to 63.8), and practically 49.5% (95% CI: 40.3–53.8). A substantial heterogeneity was observed between studies (I2 > 98% in all cases). The European region had the highest level of knowledge (75.3%), while the Southeast Asia region had a positive attitude (65.6%) and good practice in the Eastern Mediterranean region (45.9%). Meta-regression analyses indicated that the year of publication was significantly associated with heterogeneity in knowledge and attitude outcomes. In contrast, the WHO region was significantly associated with heterogeneity in practice outcomes (p < 0.05). According to the GRADE approach, the overall certainty of evidence was moderate for both knowledge and attitude outcomes, and high for practice outcomes. Conclusion The level of knowledge, attitude, and practice of the general population regarding CL is not at the desired level in many regions, especially in endemic countries. These results emphasize the need to design and implement educational interventions and targeted awareness programs to promote public KAP about CL, especially in areas with high prevalence and low practice.

Brucellosis is an important zoonotic disease affecting humans, livestock, and wildlife, yet prevalence estimates in wild species are often underestimated due to limited attention to surveillance, as well as insufficient and biased sampling. To clarify exposure patterns in wild canids, we searched PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, SciELO, and Google Scholar (1962–2025) for primary prevalence studies of Brucella species (spp.) in free-ranging canids. Serological data were analyzed using a misclassification-aware, multi-assay model that corrects for imperfect test sensitivity and specificity. Confirmatory polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and culture results were considered separately from serological data, as each offers a different perspective on disease status. Across 48 wild serology populations (n = 3,925 animals), the global misclassification-adjusted true seroprevalence was 8.2% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 5.1–11.3%). Confirmed active infection, based on PCR or culture, was uncommon (3.9%; 95% CI: 3.0–5.1%). Exposure levels varied across continents, with higher estimates in South America (approximately 18%) and lower levels in Europe (approximately 0.8%) and North America (approximately 4.1%). Data from Africa were limited, and Asian estimates were based on sparse wild samples, leading to wide uncertainty. Seroprevalence was consistently influenced by assay type, host species, and region. Overall, wild canids exhibit modest but widespread serological exposure to Brucella spp., whereas confirmed active infection remains rare. Because evidence quality and diagnostic rigor varied considerably across regions, especially in Africa and parts of Asia, results from these areas should be interpreted with caution. By correcting for imperfect tests and explicitly accounting for study heterogeneity, this framework provides more reliable and transparent prevalence estimates and highlights geographic gaps where improved, targeted One Health surveillance is most urgently needed. Brucellosis is a bacterial disease that affects livestock, wildlife, and people. While surveillance usually focuses on domestic animals, far less is known about infection in wild carnivores such as wolves, foxes, and jackals, even though these species often live near farms and may signal when Brucella is present in the environment. Research on wild canids is difficult to compare because studies use many different diagnostic tests, some of which can give false-positive or false-negative results. We reviewed all available studies of Brucella in wild canids worldwide and combined the data using a modeling approach that adjusts for imperfect diagnostic accuracy. We found that exposure is widespread but unevenly documented, with major gaps in Africa and much of Asia. After accounting for test performance, wild canids showed modest levels of exposure overall, and confirmed infections were rare. Studies using older or less reliable tests tended to report inflated prevalence. By correcting for diagnostic limitations, our study provides more reliable estimates and highlights where improved wildlife surveillance is most needed to support One Health monitoring.