Buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) mycotic eye infection: reported herd cases in Thi-Qar province, Iraq / Infecção ocular micótica em búfalos (Bubalus bubalis): relato de casos em rebanho na província de Thi-Qar, Iraque

Buffaloes are one of the important farm animals in the south of Iraq and play an essential economical role mainly acting as dairy, meat, and draft animals. This study intended to diagnose buffalo mycotic eye infections in Thi-Qar province/Iraq. Some 250 buffaloes in the herd of 3,700 animals suffered from eye infections from December 2017 to November 2018. Eye swabs were collected from each infected eye of the affected buffaloes of both sexes before treatment. The animals were in different age groups. All samples were transferred to the laboratory in transfer media, and cultured on Sabouraud dextrose (SDA) agar with and without 0.05 g/mL and 0.4 g/mL chloramphenicol and cycloheximide, respectively. Later, the agars were incubated at 25oC and 37oC. The total percentage of eye infection was (6.75%), constituting (49.2%) mycotic infections. The predominant clinical manifestations that appeared on the infected buffaloes were eye inflammation represented by congestion, lacrimation, the opacity of cornea and edema, and reduced productivity of the infected animals. Different fungal isolates were identified from the samples including Aspergillus fumigates, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, Penicillium spp., Alternaria spp., Fusarium spp., Candida spp., Cladosporium spp., Rhodotorula spp., Mucor spp. and Rhizopus spp. Calves buffaloes below one-year-old were more prone to mycotic infection than one-year-old or more. Additionally, male buffaloes were more susceptible to infection than females. In conclusion, this study isolated various types of fungus from the inflamed eyes of buffaloes. Fungal eye infection and the potential risk factors for fungal keratitis in buffaloes were also investigated. The study also approved the rapid diagnosis of fungi by direct microscopic detection and culture. The author recommends future studies including large numbers of the buffalo herd in Iraq to determine the epidemiology of this condition in the country.(AU)

Os búfalos são um dos animais de fazenda mais importantes no sul do Iraque e desempenham um papel econômico essencial, atuando principalmente na produção de leite, carne e como animal de tração. Este estudo objetivou diagnosticar infecções oculares micóticas em búfalos na província de Thi-Qar, Iraque. 250 búfalos no rebanho de um total de 3700 animais apresentaram infecção ocular durante o período compreendido entre dezembro de 2017 e novembro de 2018. Os esfregaços oculares foram colhidos dos olhos infectados dos búfalos afetados de ambos os sexos antes do tratamento. Os animais estavam em diferentes faixas etárias. Todas as amostras foram transferidas para o laboratório por meio de transferência e cultivadas em Ágar Sabouraud e Dextrose (SDA) com e sem 0,05 g/mL e 0,4 g/mL de cloranfenicol e cicloheximida, respectivamente. Posteriormente, os ágares foram incubados a 25ºC e 37ºC. A porcentagem total de infecção ocular foi de 6,75%, representando 49,2% de infecção micótica. As manifestações clínicas predominantes nos búfalos infectados foram inflamação ocular com congestão, lacrimejamento, opacidade da córnea e edema. Os animais acometidos também apresentaram redução de produtividade. Diferentes isolados de fungos foram identificados a partir das amostras, incluindo Aspergillus fumigatus, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, Penicillium spp., Alternaria spp., Fusarium spp., Candida spp., Cladosporium spp., Rhodotorula spp., Mucour spp. e Rizopus spp. Búfalos com menos de um ano de idade foram mais propensos a infecções micóticas do que com um ano ou mais. Além disso, os búfalos machos foram mais suscetíveis a infecção do que as fêmeas. Em conclusão, este estudo registrou o isolamento de vários tipos de fungos em olhos inflamados de búfalos. Além disso, a infecção ocular por fungos e os fatores de risco potenciais para ceratite fúngica em búfalos também foram observados. O estudo também aprovou o diagnóstico rápido de fungos por detecção microscópica direta e cultura. O autor recomenda outro estudo futuro, incluindo um grande número de rebanhos de búfalos no Iraque para determinar a epidemiologia desta condição no país.(AU)

Buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) mycotic eye infection: reported herd cases in Thi-Qar province, Iraq / Infecção ocular micótica em búfalos (Bubalus bubalis): relato de casos em rebanho na província de Thi-Qar, Iraque

Buffaloes are one of the important farm animals in the south of Iraq and play an essential economical role mainly acting as dairy, meat, and draft animals. This study intended to diagnose buffalo mycotic eye infections in Thi-Qar province/Iraq. Some 250 buffaloes in the herd of 3,700 animals suffered from eye infections from December 2017 to November 2018. Eye swabs were collected from each infected eye of the affected buffaloes of both sexes before treatment. The animals were in different age groups. All samples were transferred to the laboratory in transfer media, and cultured on Sabouraud dextrose (SDA) agar with and without 0.05 g/mL and 0.4 g/mL chloramphenicol and cycloheximide, respectively. Later, the agars were incubated at 25oC and 37oC. The total percentage of eye infection was (6.75%), constituting (49.2%) mycotic infections. The predominant clinical manifestations that appeared on the infected buffaloes were eye inflammation represented by congestion, lacrimation, the opacity of cornea and edema, and reduced productivity of the infected animals. Different fungal isolates were identified from the samples including Aspergillus fumigates, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, Penicillium spp., Alternaria spp., Fusarium spp., Candida spp., Cladosporium spp., Rhodotorula spp., Mucor spp. and Rhizopus spp. Calves buffaloes below one-year-old were more prone to mycotic infection than one-year-old or more. Additionally, male buffaloes were more susceptible to infection than females. In conclusion, this study isolated various types of fungus from the inflamed eyes of buffaloes. Fungal eye infection and the potential risk factors for fungal keratitis in buffaloes were also investigated. The study also approved the rapid diagnosis of fungi by direct microscopic detection and culture. The author recommends future studies including large numbers of the buffalo herd in Iraq to determine the epidemiology of this condition in the country.(AU)

Os búfalos são um dos animais de fazenda mais importantes no sul do Iraque e desempenham um papel econômico essencial, atuando principalmente na produção de leite, carne e como animal de tração. Este estudo objetivou diagnosticar infecções oculares micóticas em búfalos na província de Thi-Qar, Iraque. 250 búfalos no rebanho de um total de 3700 animais apresentaram infecção ocular durante o período compreendido entre dezembro de 2017 e novembro de 2018. Os esfregaços oculares foram colhidos dos olhos infectados dos búfalos afetados de ambos os sexos antes do tratamento. Os animais estavam em diferentes faixas etárias. Todas as amostras foram transferidas para o laboratório por meio de transferência e cultivadas em Ágar Sabouraud e Dextrose (SDA) com e sem 0,05 g/mL e 0,4 g/mL de cloranfenicol e cicloheximida, respectivamente. Posteriormente, os ágares foram incubados a 25ºC e 37ºC. A porcentagem total de infecção ocular foi de 6,75%, representando 49,2% de infecção micótica. As manifestações clínicas predominantes nos búfalos infectados foram inflamação ocular com congestão, lacrimejamento, opacidade da córnea e edema. Os animais acometidos também apresentaram redução de produtividade. Diferentes isolados de fungos foram identificados a partir das amostras, incluindo Aspergillus fumigatus, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, Penicillium spp., Alternaria spp., Fusarium spp., Candida spp., Cladosporium spp., Rhodotorula spp., Mucour spp. e Rizopus spp. Búfalos com menos de um ano de idade foram mais propensos a infecções micóticas do que com um ano ou mais. Além disso, os búfalos machos foram mais suscetíveis a infecção do que as fêmeas. Em conclusão, este estudo registrou o isolamento de vários tipos de fungos em olhos inflamados de búfalos. Além disso, a infecção ocular por fungos e os fatores de risco potenciais para ceratite fúngica em búfalos também foram observados. O estudo também aprovou o diagnóstico rápido de fungos por detecção microscópica direta e cultura. O autor recomenda outro estudo futuro, incluindo um grande número de rebanhos de búfalos no Iraque para determinar a epidemiologia desta condição no país.(AU)

Quality of death in the river buffalo (Bubalus bubalis)

Results on appropriate, inappropriate, and painful slaughtering methods of river buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) are discussed. Undesirable consequences of poor desensitization and/or slaughtering procedures, causing pain and suffering to animals, are also approached. These considerations are relevant as unsuitable methods can reduce consumer acceptance and commercial value of the meat obtained from animals undergoing deficient slaughtering procedures due to a lack of concern regarding their welfare. Relevant databases –Scopus, Science Direct, and PubMedwere searched for this review, including keywords such as pain, slaughter, stunning, Bubalus bubalis, and animal welfare. A detailed description of river buffalo's encephalic anatomy was compared to cattle concerning correct stunning and slaughter methods. The neurobiological processes of pain felt by animals when inadequately desensitized was also examined. Finally, recent findings on stunning methods for buffaloes were discussed, including encephalography. It was concluded that different animal species may require different stunning methods; at the same time, the optimal anatomical site also varies between species. Therefore, it is of the utmost importance to train the personnel performing these procedures (transport, stunning, slaughtering) to avoid mishandling that jeopardizes animal welfare by generating stimuli that trigger neurophysiological responses and, in turn, translate into pain during slaughter and reduced meat quality.(AU)

Quality of death in the river buffalo (Bubalus bubalis)

Results on appropriate, inappropriate, and painful slaughtering methods of river buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) are discussed. Undesirable consequences of poor desensitization and/or slaughtering procedures, causing pain and suffering to animals, are also approached. These considerations are relevant as unsuitable methods can reduce consumer acceptance and commercial value of the meat obtained from animals undergoing deficient slaughtering procedures due to a lack of concern regarding their welfare. Relevant databases –Scopus, Science Direct, and PubMedwere searched for this review, including keywords such as pain, slaughter, stunning, Bubalus bubalis, and animal welfare. A detailed description of river buffalo's encephalic anatomy was compared to cattle concerning correct stunning and slaughter methods. The neurobiological processes of pain felt by animals when inadequately desensitized was also examined. Finally, recent findings on stunning methods for buffaloes were discussed, including encephalography. It was concluded that different animal species may require different stunning methods; at the same time, the optimal anatomical site also varies between species. Therefore, it is of the utmost importance to train the personnel performing these procedures (transport, stunning, slaughtering) to avoid mishandling that jeopardizes animal welfare by generating stimuli that trigger neurophysiological responses and, in turn, translate into pain during slaughter and reduced meat quality.(AU)

Quality of death in the river buffalo (Bubalus bubalis)

Results on appropriate, inappropriate, and painful slaughtering methods of river buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) are discussed. Undesirable consequences of poor desensitization and/or slaughtering procedures, causing pain and suffering to animals, are also approached. These considerations are relevant as unsuitable methods can reduce consumer acceptance and commercial value of the meat obtained from animals undergoing deficient slaughtering procedures due to a lack of concern regarding their welfare. Relevant databases –Scopus, Science Direct, and PubMed– were searched for this review, including keywords such as pain, slaughter, stunning, Bubalus bubalis, and animal welfare. A detailed description of river buffalo's encephalic anatomy was compared to cattle concerning correct stunning and slaughter methods. The neurobiological processes of pain felt by animals when inadequately desensitized was also examined. Finally, recent findings on stunning methods for buffaloes were discussed, including encephalography. It was concluded that different animal species may require different stunning methods; at the same time, the optimal anatomical site also varies between species. Therefore, it is of the utmost importance to train the personnel performing these procedures (transport, stunning, slaughtering) to avoid mishandling that jeopardizes animal welfare by generating stimuli that trigger neurophysiological responses and, in turn, translate into pain during slaughter and reduced meat quality.

Molecular characterization of Paramphistomum cervi in buffaloes

Background: Paramphistomiasis (Rumen fluke disease) in ruminants is a major health problem, characterized by coarse hair, weakness, loss of appetite, weight retardations, intestine ulcers, inter-mandibular inflammation, causing substantial economic losses, and high mortality. In tropical and subtropical regions, the disease was neglected but has recently emerged as an important cause of production losses. While documented reports on Paramphistomum cervi, Paramphistomum ichikawai and Paramphistomum are limited in Asian countries and paramphistomosis has been considered the major health and economic problem in several countries. The present study aimed to identify paramphistomoid flukes that infects buffaloes with the goal of characterization of prevalence in Pakistan and its comparison with neighbor countries. Materials, Methods & Results: In 2018, a total of 178 slaughtered buffaloes aged four to six years were examined. After an immediate postmortem examination of each buffalo, flukes were collected from their infected rumen and reticulum using sterilized forceps and placed in a saline solution. DNA was extracted from adult Paramphistome species using the standard phenol chloroform method and used for amplification of partial fragment of 18S rRNA sequences using specific pair of primer. After amplification and sequencing of 18S rRNA partial fragment, the generated sequences were assembled and trimmed to remove any primer contaminations. Twenty-three randomly selected and morphologically identified adult Paramphistomum were used in species-level identification using specific primers for partial fragment of 18S rRNA sequences. The cleaned sequences (810 bp) were used to identify similar sequences using BLAST on the NCBI website. The GenBank retrieved sequences and new Paramphistomum species isolated sequences were aligned using CLUSTAL in the BioEdit Sequence...

Effect of live body weight and method of synchronization on ovulation, pregnancy rate and embryo and fetal loss in buffalo heifers

This study aimed to assess the influence of live body weight (LBW) and age on reproductive performance in buffalo heifers synchronized by different treatments. The study was carried out on 146 Mediterranean buffalo heifers (mean age 25.3±13.4 months, LBW 424±47 kg), divided into 2 homogeneous groups and synchronized by Ovsynch-TAI Program (OVS; n = 72) or double prostaglandin administered 12 days apart (PGF; n = 74). All the buffaloes were inseminated twice and follicle dimensions and ovulation rate (OR) were assessed by ultrasound 24 and 48 h post-insemination. Pregnancy was assessed on day 25, 45 and 90 post-insemination and the incidence of late embryonic (LEM) and fetal (FM) mortality were respectively recorded. Data were analyzed by ANOVA, Chi-square test and multiple logistic regression. The LBW was significantly (P<0.05) higher in inseminated animals, compared to those that did not respond to the treatments (450.0±3.2 vs. 423.2±9.6 kg in inseminated and not inseminated heifers, respectively). Total OR was similar between groups, although OR at 24 h tended to be higher (P = 0.06) in OVS (86.7 vs. 72.9% in OVS and PGF, respectively). A (P<0.01) higher LBW was observed in ovulated heifers of PGF, while no differences were recorded in OVS. LBW affected OR (odds ratio = 1,032; P<0.05) only in PGF, while no effects were recorded in OVS. Total pregnancy rate, LEM and FM were similar between groups. In conclusion, the LBW would be considered before including buffalo heifers in a synchronization program and both synchronization treatments can be useful.(AU)

Effect of live body weight and method of synchronization on ovulation, pregnancy rate and embryo and fetal loss in buffalo heifers

This study aimed to assess the influence of live body weight (LBW) and age on reproductive performance in buffalo heifers synchronized by different treatments. The study was carried out on 146 Mediterranean buffalo heifers (mean age 25.3±13.4 months, LBW 424±47 kg), divided into 2 homogeneous groups and synchronized by Ovsynch-TAI Program (OVS; n = 72) or double prostaglandin administered 12 days apart (PGF; n = 74). All the buffaloes were inseminated twice and follicle dimensions and ovulation rate (OR) were assessed by ultrasound 24 and 48 h post-insemination. Pregnancy was assessed on day 25, 45 and 90 post-insemination and the incidence of late embryonic (LEM) and fetal (FM) mortality were respectively recorded. Data were analyzed by ANOVA, Chi-square test and multiple logistic regression. The LBW was significantly (P<0.05) higher in inseminated animals, compared to those that did not respond to the treatments (450.0±3.2 vs. 423.2±9.6 kg in inseminated and not inseminated heifers, respectively). Total OR was similar between groups, although OR at 24 h tended to be higher (P = 0.06) in OVS (86.7 vs. 72.9% in OVS and PGF, respectively). A (P<0.01) higher LBW was observed in ovulated heifers of PGF, while no differences were recorded in OVS. LBW affected OR (odds ratio = 1,032; P<0.05) only in PGF, while no effects were recorded in OVS. Total pregnancy rate, LEM and FM were similar between groups. In conclusion, the LBW would be considered before including buffalo heifers in a synchronization program and both synchronization treatments can be useful.

Biometria testicular e sua influência no comportamento sexual de búfalos (Bubalus buballis) / Testicular parameters and its influence in buffaloes (Bubalus buballis) sexual behaviour

Background: Brazil is one of the greatest bovine meat exporter in the world. However, the technologies applied at buffalo’s reproduction is not specific for this specie, adapted technics were established from the cattle breed. When the animalshows weight gain, gonadal and behavioral physiology fallow this tendency and the reproductive status become good andsatisfactory. Thus, the aim of this study was to compare the reproduction characteristics of male buffaloes and its testicularparameters with sexual behavior.Materials, Methods & Results: Seven males Murrah breed with 67.29 ± 11.4 months of age were maintained at confinement for artificial shading. The testicular parameter was performed in restraint trunk and the sexual behavior evaluationwas done with an estrus female. The sexual behavior was performed with an estrous female as a dummy. The testicularbiometry was measured at the beginning and at the end of the experimental design, with the follow parameters: length,width, depth/thickness, scrotal circumference and the total volume. The data were submitted to the analysis of variance,and the means was compared with the Student-Newman-Keuls test, with significance difference P < 0.05 between themedians. The differences in the parameters were scrotal circumference (23.36 cm vs 24.86 cm), testicular length (8.71 cmvs 9.77 cm), right testicular width (8.57 cm vs 9.53 cm) and testicular volume (1.627.40 cm3 vs 2.149,68 cm3), respectively.The sexual behavior showed an increase in the Flehmen reflex, mounts...

Biometria testicular e sua influência no comportamento sexual de búfalos (Bubalus buballis) / Testicular parameters and its influence in buffaloes (Bubalus buballis) sexual behaviour

Background: Brazil is one of the greatest bovine meat exporter in the world. However, the technologies applied at buffalos reproduction is not specific for this specie, adapted technics were established from the cattle breed. When the animalshows weight gain, gonadal and behavioral physiology fallow this tendency and the reproductive status become good andsatisfactory. Thus, the aim of this study was to compare the reproduction characteristics of male buffaloes and its testicularparameters with sexual behavior.Materials, Methods & Results: Seven males Murrah breed with 67.29 ± 11.4 months of age were maintained at confinement for artificial shading. The testicular parameter was performed in restraint trunk and the sexual behavior evaluationwas done with an estrus female. The sexual behavior was performed with an estrous female as a dummy. The testicularbiometry was measured at the beginning and at the end of the experimental design, with the follow parameters: length,width, depth/thickness, scrotal circumference and the total volume. The data were submitted to the analysis of variance,and the means was compared with the Student-Newman-Keuls test, with significance difference P < 0.05 between themedians. The differences in the parameters were scrotal circumference (23.36 cm vs 24.86 cm), testicular length (8.71 cmvs 9.77 cm), right testicular width (8.57 cm vs 9.53 cm) and testicular volume (1.627.40 cm3 vs 2.149,68 cm3), respectively.The sexual behavior showed an increase in the Flehmen reflex, mounts...(AU)

Evaluation of buffaloes' follicular dynamics and stress state under different ovulation synchronization protocols

The aims of the present study were to analyze the effect of different hormonal protocols using an implant containing Norgestomet, at the ovulation synchronization in buffaloes and to verify the effect of the stress caused by manipulation of the herd during the experiment. Twenty-four female Murrah breed buffaloes, lactating, multiparous, aged from three to eight years, with a body condition score of 3.5 or higher (0 to 5) and with more than 45 days post partum, were used. These females were randomly distributed into one of the three groups (group 1, group 2 and group 3) with eight subjects in each. On day 0 (day 0), all animals received an ear progesterone implant with 3.0 mg of Norgestomet and an intramuscular (IM) injection with 2.0 mg of estradiol benzoate (EB). The implants were removed after nine days (day 9) and one single dose of PGF2α (0.15 mg d-cloprostenol, IM) was administered to all animals. On the same day, the group ́1 and group 3 buffaloes were treated with 500 UI of eCG (IM). Two days later (day 11), 1000UI of hCG (IM) were administered to the group 1 and group 2 buffaloes. After the implant had been removed, an ultrasound evaluation was performed every 12 h, in order to access the ovarian follicular dynamics, using an Aloka 500 equipment with a 5 MHz transrectal probe. Blood samples were also taken on days 0, 9 and 11 to determine the plasmatic concentrations of cortisol and progesterone. No difference was observed in the ovulation rate (group 1: 62.5%, group 2: 50%, group 3: 75%). However, the size of the preovulatory follicles and the plasmatic concentration of cortisol had (P <0.05). G3 was the most efficient group in promoting the ovulation synchronization, which suggests that this protocol can be used in Fixed Timed Artificial Insemination programs (FTAI) among postpartum, lactating Murrah breed buffaloes’.

Evaluation of buffaloes' follicular dynamics and stress state under different ovulation synchronization protocols

The aims of the present study were to analyze the effect of different hormonal protocols using an implant containing Norgestomet, at the ovulation synchronization in buffaloes and to verify the effect of the stress caused by manipulation of the herd during the experiment. Twenty-four female Murrah breed buffaloes, lactating, multiparous, aged from three to eight years, with a body condition score of 3.5 or higher (0 to 5) and with more than 45 days post partum, were used. These females were randomly distributed into one of the three groups (group 1, group 2 and group 3) with eight subjects in each. On day 0 (day 0), all animals received an ear progesterone implant with 3.0 mg of Norgestomet and an intramuscular (IM) injection with 2.0 mg of estradiol benzoate (EB). The implants were removed after nine days (day 9) and one single dose of PGF2α (0.15 mg d-cloprostenol, IM) was administered to all animals. On the same day, the group ́1 and group 3 buffaloes were treated with 500 UI of eCG (IM). Two days later (day 11), 1000UI of hCG (IM) were administered to the group 1 and group 2 buffaloes. After the implant had been removed, an ultrasound evaluation was performed every 12 h, in order to access the ovarian follicular dynamics, using an Aloka 500 equipment with a 5 MHz transrectal probe. Blood samples were also taken on days 0, 9 and 11 to determine the plasmatic concentrations of cortisol and progesterone. No difference was observed in the ovulation rate (group 1: 62.5%, group 2: 50%, group 3: 75%). However, the size of the preovulatory follicles and the plasmatic concentration of cortisol had (P <0.05). G3 was the most efficient group in promoting the ovulation synchronization, which suggests that this protocol can be used in Fixed Timed Artificial Insemination programs (FTAI) among postpartum, lactating Murrah breed buffaloes.(AU)

Peculiarities of the buffalo species for andrological evaluation – results of four years of study and weekly semen collection schedule

The aim of the present review is to provide complementary information about reproductive characteristics of male buffaloes having as perspective a four – year-study based on a weekly seminal collection schedule and collection of data in partner properties of several regions of Brazil. Aspects of testicular growth, reproductive behavior and characteristics of 1477 ejaculates of 13 donors are discussed in conjunction with data available in the literature.

Peculiarities of the buffalo species for andrological evaluation results of four years of study and weekly semen collection schedule

The aim of the present review is to provide complementary information about reproductive characteristics of male buffaloes having as perspective a four year-study based on a weekly seminal collection schedule and collection of data in partner properties of several regions of Brazil. Aspects of testicular growth, reproductive behavior and characteristics of 1477 ejaculates of 13 donors are discussed in conjunction with data available in the literature.(AU)

Termografia por infravermelho na reprodução de bubalinos / Infrared thermography in buffalo reproduction

A espécie bubalina está concentrada na área intertropical do globo terrestre, gerando lucro com alta taxade crescimento. Os fatores climáticos causam estresse térmico nos búfalos com influência na atividade dereprodução de fêmeas e machos. A reprodução de precisão agrega procedimentos com uso de imagem como atermografia digital de infravermelho que auxilia no monitoramento do estresse térmico em búfalos. Nas fêmeasem lactação a saúde da glândula mamária pode ser avaliada com a temperatura de tetos e cisternas da glândula;em machos o termograma do escroto auxilia na triagem de reprodutores como exame complementar à avaliaçãoandrológica. Vale destacar que os exames de imagem como a termografia devem ser complementares ao exameclínico para a correta interpretação e uso contributivo. A exemplo da termografia, exames de imagem nãoinvasivos, com acurácia, sem efeitos adversos ao animal; e de prática e rápida realização são estudados e serãocada vez mais desenvolvidos e aplicados nos diferentes tipos de manejo em animais para monitorar a saúde, obem-estar e a atividade de reprodução.(AU)

The buffalo species is concentrated in the intertropical area, generating profit with high growth rate.Climatic factors cause thermal stress in buffaloes that influence the reproduction activity of females and males.Precision reproduction aggregates imaging procedures such as digital infrared thermography that assists inmonitoring thermal stress in buffaloes. In lactating females the health of the mammary gland can be evaluatedwith the temperature of the teats and mammary gland. In males the scrotal thermogram assists in the screeningof breeding herds as a complementary examination to the andrological evaluation. It is worth noting thatimaging tests should be complementary to the clinical examination for its correct interpretation and use in acontributory manner. Noninvasive imaging tests, with accuracy, without adverse effects to the animal; and easyand quick to perform are studied and will be increasingly developed and applied in different types of animalmanagement to monitor health, well-being and reproduction activity.(AU)

Termografia por infravermelho na reprodução de bubalinos / Infrared thermography in buffalo reproduction

A espécie bubalina está concentrada na área intertropical do globo terrestre, gerando lucro com alta taxade crescimento. Os fatores climáticos causam estresse térmico nos búfalos com influência na atividade dereprodução de fêmeas e machos. A reprodução de precisão agrega procedimentos com uso de imagem como atermografia digital de infravermelho que auxilia no monitoramento do estresse térmico em búfalos. Nas fêmeasem lactação a saúde da glândula mamária pode ser avaliada com a temperatura de tetos e cisternas da glândula;em machos o termograma do escroto auxilia na triagem de reprodutores como exame complementar à avaliaçãoandrológica. Vale destacar que os exames de imagem como a termografia devem ser complementares ao exameclínico para a correta interpretação e uso contributivo. A exemplo da termografia, exames de imagem nãoinvasivos, com acurácia, sem efeitos adversos ao animal; e de prática e rápida realização são estudados e serãocada vez mais desenvolvidos e aplicados nos diferentes tipos de manejo em animais para monitorar a saúde, obem-estar e a atividade de reprodução.

The buffalo species is concentrated in the intertropical area, generating profit with high growth rate.Climatic factors cause thermal stress in buffaloes that influence the reproduction activity of females and males.Precision reproduction aggregates imaging procedures such as digital infrared thermography that assists inmonitoring thermal stress in buffaloes. In lactating females the health of the mammary gland can be evaluatedwith the temperature of the teats and mammary gland. In males the scrotal thermogram assists in the screeningof breeding herds as a complementary examination to the andrological evaluation. It is worth noting thatimaging tests should be complementary to the clinical examination for its correct interpretation and use in acontributory manner. Noninvasive imaging tests, with accuracy, without adverse effects to the animal; and easyand quick to perform are studied and will be increasingly developed and applied in different types of animalmanagement to monitor health, well-being and reproduction activity.

Influences of different space allowance on reproductive performances in buffalo

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of two different conditions of space allowance on reproductive performance and oxidative parameters, biochemical and hormonal profiles in buffalo. The trial was carried out on one hundred pluriparous buffaloes divided into two different groups. Buffaloes in group HDG (high density group - n = 50) were maintained in open yards that allowed 10 m2/head while those in group LDG (low density group -n = 50) were maintained in 22 m2/head. After 60 days, 45 buffaloes in each group underwent synchronization of ovulation by Ovsynch and were artificially inseminated to assess the reproductive efficiency. On the day of AI blood samples were collected to evaluate oxidative stress, hormonal and metabolic profile. Furthermore, on the same day, blood, saliva and hair samples were collected to assess cortisol levels. Simultaneously, Five buffaloes/group, were synchronized but not inseminated and on the day of the hypothetical timed artificial insemination (TAI), follicular fluid was recovered by OPU and blood samples were collected from each animal to evaluate the redox status on both plasma and follicular fluid. Conception rate on day 70 post-AI was similar between the two groups (57.5 vs. 62.5%, in LDG and HDG, respectively). No significant differences were found on redox status, metabolic and hormonal profile and cortisol levels between the groups. In conclusion, on the conditions of this experiment it was observed that the space allowance of 10 m 2/head did not affect reproductive efficiency in buffalo cows.

Influences of different space allowance on reproductive performances in buffalo

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of two different conditions of space allowance on reproductive performance and oxidative parameters, biochemical and hormonal profiles in buffalo. The trial was carried out on one hundred pluriparous buffaloes divided into two different groups. Buffaloes in group HDG (high density group - n = 50) were maintained in open yards that allowed 10 m2/head while those in group LDG (low density group -n = 50) were maintained in 22 m2/head. After 60 days, 45 buffaloes in each group underwent synchronization of ovulation by Ovsynch and were artificially inseminated to assess the reproductive efficiency. On the day of AI blood samples were collected to evaluate oxidative stress, hormonal and metabolic profile. Furthermore, on the same day, blood, saliva and hair samples were collected to assess cortisol levels. Simultaneously, Five buffaloes/group, were synchronized but not inseminated and on the day of the hypothetical timed artificial insemination (TAI), follicular fluid was recovered by OPU and blood samples were collected from each animal to evaluate the redox status on both plasma and follicular fluid. Conception rate on day 70 post-AI was similar between the two groups (57.5 vs. 62.5%, in LDG and HDG, respectively). No significant differences were found on redox status, metabolic and hormonal profile and cortisol levels between the groups. In conclusion, on the conditions of this experiment it was observed that the space allowance of 10 m 2/head did not affect reproductive efficiency in buffalo cows.(AU)

Características morfométricas e testiculares de búfalos em diferentes idades / Morphometric and testicular characteristics of buffalos at different ages

We evaluated the live weight (LW), morphological and testicular measures and their correlations in 31 Mediterranean buffaloes at three ages. We used seven animals at 8 months of age (T1), 13 animals at the age of 10 months (T2), and 11 animals at the age of 12 months (T3) coming from a farm of the Coastal Lowlands of Rio de Janeiro. The following morphometric measurements and testes were evaluated: rump height (RH), withers height (WH), rump length (RL), round thickness (RT), scrotal circumference (SC), testicular length (TL), testicular width (TW). Testicular volume (TV) and body mass index (BMI) were also calculated. The testicular form was determined by the ratio between the TW and TL. We found the following means for the variables LW (240.57 ± 18.36; 259.38 ± 28.66; and 331.82 ± 63.23), WH (113.28 ± 2.44; 116.23 ± 4.74; and 121.45 ± 6.95cm), RH (116.07 ± 3.09; 117.54 ± 4.97; and 125.45 ± 6.92 cm), RL (34.86 ± 2.03; 36.35 ± 2.80; and 38.09 ± 3.24 cm), RT (39.07 ± 2.22; 40 ± 2.37; and 42.91 ± 3.97cm), BMI (187.37 ± 11.45; 191.69 ± 14.61; and 222.39 ± 23.57) regarding the treatments T1, T2, and T3, respectively. We found the following means for the variables SC (17.43±1.81; 19.08±1.98; and 22.11±3.25 cm), TL (8.28 ± 0.99; 9.27 ± 1.33; and 10.68 ± 1.47 cm), TW (3.25 ± 0.25; 3.90 ± 0.58; and 4.66 ± 0.80cm), and TV (109.43 ± 24.93; 198.36 ± 87.08; and 343.83 ± 183.04 cm3 ) regarding the treatments T1, T2, and T3, respectively. The predominant form in all treatments was long. There was no difference between the T1 and T2 for the studied variables. T3 had higher averages for LW, BMI, RH, SC, TV, and TW. For the variables WH, RL, TL, and RT there was no difference between T2 and T3. There was a correlation between measurements and testicular measures WH, RH, and RL and between SC and TV, TL, and TW.

Objetivou-se com este trabalho analisar o peso vivo (PV), as medidas morfométricas e testiculares e suas correlações entre si em 31 búfalos Mediterrâneo em três idades. Foram utilizados sete animais de 8 meses (T1), treze de 10 meses (T2) e onze de 12 meses (T3), de uma propriedade da Baixada Litorânea do Rio de Janeiro. As medidas morfométricas e testiculares avaliadas foram: altura da garupa (AG), altura da cernelha (AC), comprimento da garupa (CG), espessura de coxão (ECX), circunferência escrotal (CE), comprimento testicular (CT) e largura testicular (LT). Foram calculados o volume testicular (VT) e o índice de massa corpórea (IMC), e foi determinada a forma testicular pela razão entre a LT e o CT. Foram encontradas as médias para das variáveis PV (240,57 ± 18,36; 259,38±28,66 e 331,82 ± 63,23), AC (113,28 ± 2,44; 116,23 ± 4,74 e 121,45 ± 6,95 cm), AG (116,07 ± 3,09; 117,54 ± 4,97 e 125,45 ± 6,92 cm), CG (34,86 ± 2,03; 36,35 ± 2,80 e 38,09 ± 3,24 cm), ECX (39,07 ± 2,22; 40 ± 2,37 e 42,91 ± 3,97 cm), IMC (187,37 ± 11,45; 191,69 ± 14,61 e 222,39 ± 23,57) para os tratamentos T1, T2 e T3, respectivamente. Foram encontradas médias para as variáveis CE (17,43±1,81; 19,08±1,98 e 22,11 ± 3,25 cm), CT (8,28 ± 0,99; 9,27 ± 1,33 e 10,68 ± 1,47 cm), LT (3,25 ± 0,25; 3,90 ± 0,58 e 4,66 ± 0,80 cm) e VT (109,43 ± 24,93, 198,36 ± 87,08 e 343,83 ± 183,04 cm3) para os tratamentos T1, T2 e T3, respectivamente. A forma predominante para todos os tratamentos foi o Longo. Não houve diferença entre as médias dos tratamentos 1 e 2 para nenhuma das variáveis estudadas. Para as variáveis PV, AG e IMC, CE, LT e VT o tratamento3 apresentou as maiores médias. Para as variáveis AC, CG, ECX e CT não houve diferença entre os tratamentos 2 e 3. Houve correlação entre todas as medidas testiculares e as medidas de AC, AG e CG e entre CE e VT, CT, LT.

Características morfométricas e testiculares de búfalos em diferentes idades / Morphometric and testicular characteristics of buffalos at different ages

We evaluated the live weight (LW), morphological and testicular measures and their correlations in 31 Mediterranean buffaloes at three ages. We used seven animals at 8 months of age (T1), 13 animals at the age of 10 months (T2), and 11 animals at the age of 12 months (T3) coming from a farm of the Coastal Lowlands of Rio de Janeiro. The following morphometric measurements and testes were evaluated: rump height (RH), withers height (WH), rump length (RL), round thickness (RT), scrotal circumference (SC), testicular length (TL), testicular width (TW). Testicular volume (TV) and body mass index (BMI) were also calculated. The testicular form was determined by the ratio between the TW and TL. We found the following means for the variables LW (240.57 ± 18.36; 259.38 ± 28.66; and 331.82 ± 63.23), WH (113.28 ± 2.44; 116.23 ± 4.74; and 121.45 ± 6.95cm), RH (116.07 ± 3.09; 117.54 ± 4.97; and 125.45 ± 6.92 cm), RL (34.86 ± 2.03; 36.35 ± 2.80; and 38.09 ± 3.24 cm), RT (39.07 ± 2.22; 40 ± 2.37; and 42.91 ± 3.97cm), BMI (187.37 ± 11.45; 191.69 ± 14.61; and 222.39 ± 23.57) regarding the treatments T1, T2, and T3, respectively. We found the following means for the variables SC (17.43±1.81; 19.08±1.98; and 22.11±3.25 cm), TL (8.28 ± 0.99; 9.27 ± 1.33; and 10.68 ± 1.47 cm), TW (3.25 ± 0.25; 3.90 ± 0.58; and 4.66 ± 0.80cm), and TV (109.43 ± 24.93; 198.36 ± 87.08; and 343.83 ± 183.04 cm3 ) regarding the treatments T1, T2, and T3, respectively. The predominant form in all treatments was long. There was no difference between the T1 and T2 for the studied variables. T3 had higher averages for LW, BMI, RH, SC, TV, and TW. For the variables WH, RL, TL, and RT there was no difference between T2 and T3. There was a correlation between measurements and testicular measures WH, RH, and RL and between SC and TV, TL, and TW.(AU)

Objetivou-se com este trabalho analisar o peso vivo (PV), as medidas morfométricas e testiculares e suas correlações entre si em 31 búfalos Mediterrâneo em três idades. Foram utilizados sete animais de 8 meses (T1), treze de 10 meses (T2) e onze de 12 meses (T3), de uma propriedade da Baixada Litorânea do Rio de Janeiro. As medidas morfométricas e testiculares avaliadas foram: altura da garupa (AG), altura da cernelha (AC), comprimento da garupa (CG), espessura de coxão (ECX), circunferência escrotal (CE), comprimento testicular (CT) e largura testicular (LT). Foram calculados o volume testicular (VT) e o índice de massa corpórea (IMC), e foi determinada a forma testicular pela razão entre a LT e o CT. Foram encontradas as médias para das variáveis PV (240,57 ± 18,36; 259,38±28,66 e 331,82 ± 63,23), AC (113,28 ± 2,44; 116,23 ± 4,74 e 121,45 ± 6,95 cm), AG (116,07 ± 3,09; 117,54 ± 4,97 e 125,45 ± 6,92 cm), CG (34,86 ± 2,03; 36,35 ± 2,80 e 38,09 ± 3,24 cm), ECX (39,07 ± 2,22; 40 ± 2,37 e 42,91 ± 3,97 cm), IMC (187,37 ± 11,45; 191,69 ± 14,61 e 222,39 ± 23,57) para os tratamentos T1, T2 e T3, respectivamente. Foram encontradas médias para as variáveis CE (17,43±1,81; 19,08±1,98 e 22,11 ± 3,25 cm), CT (8,28 ± 0,99; 9,27 ± 1,33 e 10,68 ± 1,47 cm), LT (3,25 ± 0,25; 3,90 ± 0,58 e 4,66 ± 0,80 cm) e VT (109,43 ± 24,93, 198,36 ± 87,08 e 343,83 ± 183,04 cm3) para os tratamentos T1, T2 e T3, respectivamente. A forma predominante para todos os tratamentos foi o Longo. Não houve diferença entre as médias dos tratamentos 1 e 2 para nenhuma das variáveis estudadas. Para as variáveis PV, AG e IMC, CE, LT e VT o tratamento3 apresentou as maiores médias. Para as variáveis AC, CG, ECX e CT não houve diferença entre os tratamentos 2 e 3. Houve correlação entre todas as medidas testiculares e as medidas de AC, AG e CG e entre CE e VT, CT, LT.(AU)