Dependence between behavioural acts and sperm parameters of boars of modern and local breeds of Ukraine

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between behavioural activities and sperm parameters in modern and local breeds of Ukrainian boars. Visual observations were conducted on 30 boars, aged 12 and 24 months, with five boars from each of the following breeds: Large White, Landrace, Ukrainian Meat, Pietrain, intrabreed type of Duroc breed of Ukrainian selection "Steppovyi", and the terminal line "Maxter". Behaviours such as rest, movement, feed, and water intake during 24 hours were recorded. Semen samples were manually collected from each boar and evaluated for quantitative and qualitative indicators of sperm quality and fertilizing capacity according to the "Instructions for Artificial Insemination of Pigs", which included parameters such as ejaculate volume, sperm concentration in the ejaculate, percentage of correctly motile spermatozoa, survival of spermatozoa, and fertilizing ability of boars. The study found that certain behavioural activities significantly influenced the qualitative and quantitative indicators of sperm parameters in boars of different breeds. Specifically, time spent on rest and movement, as well as the index of movement activity (at 12 months of age), significantly (P < 0.05) influenced ejaculate volume, sperm concentration, and the percentage of correctly motile spermatozoa. Moreover, the effect of these behavioural acts on ejaculate volume had a curvilinear character. On the other hand, the survival of spermatozoa and fertilizing ability of boars were mainly determined by their time spent on feed and water intake (at 24 months of age), and the relationship detected in this case was asymptotic.

Behavioral fractal method associated with GPS tracking to spatial activity sequences of grazing cattle

Global positioning and geographic information systems are essential for studying foraging animal behavior. This study aims to implement a fractal self-similarity and chaos game computational efficient methodology to determine the behavior-associated fractal using GPS data of activity sequences in spatial ranges of livestock movement trajectories in interaction with habitat factors. Six cows were randomly selected with an average weight of 480 kg, maintained under the same conditions, and a GPS-equipped collar was installed, programmed at intervals of 1 min and an average of 9 h daylight. Roughly 192810 registries and an average of 32135 signals per cow from trajectory tracking in spatial activity sequencing were used as a variable of interest in the fractal characterization methodology. Spatial patterns were evaluated using the Morán's spatial autocorrelation indices, cluster, and non-parametric statistics, evaluating deterministic spatial patterns of preferential activities associated to spatial ranges of less than 7.1 m (resting 42 %, grazing 38 %). GPS information was refined through spatial ranges and changes in activities under resting, eating, traveling, and complementary schemes associated to the fractal displacement behavior of grazing cattle. This information was processed and mapped using fractal self-similarity rules in the Sierpinski triangle to determine the typical fractal of spatial activities per animal in the habitat. The particular fractal record of each bovine as a function of trajectory sequences was mapped for binary image matrices, registering a good classification (83 %) of the animals by breed and climatological cycle, using information from the sequencing of spatial activities associated to the preferred behavior in the habitat.

Seasonal altitudinal movements of birds in Brazil: a review

Birds' seasonal altitudinal movements in Brazil are poorly understood. The main source of information and has fostered interest since the 1980s. However, most of the available information is anecdotal, sources are repeatedly cited, and the information provided is quite superficial and speculative. Through bibliographic searches, we found 107 studies, 83 (77%) of which we consider valid, and only 63 (59%) were peer-reviewed. Most studies were carried out in southern and southeastern Brazil. Only 11 studies explicitly addressed seasonal altitudinal movements. Surprisingly, none of the studies simultaneously comprised a full year of study, standardized sampling methods, and encompassed the entire altitudinal range through which the birds might have moved. As a consequence, the quality of the data is questionable, and the expression "altitudinal migration" is unlikely to be accurate and has never been unequivocally demonstrated for birds in Brazil. Mention of "altitudinal migration" was found for 68 bird species, but these must be more clearly defined and appropriately tested.(AU)

Spontaneous osteoarthritis in dogs - clinical effects of single and multiple intra-articular injections of hyaluronic acid

Background: The treatments of osteoarthritis (OA) are commonly conservative and multimodal to relieve pain and improve movement. Intra-articular injection of hyaluronic acid (IAHA) has been studied as a treatment option for OA in dogs. IAHA helps restore the viscoelasticity of the synovial fluid and relieves the clinical symptoms of OA. However, the efficacy of IAHA in dogs is still a controversial subject. This study aims to confirm the IAHA effect in dogs with spontaneous OA and to compare the effectiveness depending on the number of injections. Materials, Methods & Results: Thirty dogs with spontaneous OA were assigned to a single injection group (n=17) and a 3-weekly injections group (n=13). Dogs weighing less than 10 kg were injected 1 mL of HA to the OA joint, and more than 10 kg dogs were injected 2 mL of HA. In the case of the 3-weekly injections group, the same amount was administered 3 times at 1-week intervals. After the injection, physical and orthopedic examinations were performed to check for complications. Radiographic OA score was evaluated before and 3 months after the injection to confirm and to evaluate the progression of OA. Clinical symptom evaluations were performed on pre-injection, 1-, 2-, and 3-months post-injection. They consisted of the clinical lameness score by veterinarians and Canine Brief Pain Inventory (CBPI) by owners. Results were compared with unpaired t-test, repeated-measures ANOVA with Tukey's or Sidak's multiple comparison test, or Wilcoxon test, with P < 0.05. Patients had a median age of 9 years (range 3 to 16 years) and a bodyweight of 4.8 kg (range 2 to 48 kg). No systemic side effects or major complications were detected during the trial period. IAHA produced temporary pain and discomfort in 6 cases. There was no change in the radiographic OA score before and 3 months after injections in both groups, and the difference between groups was not confirmed. In both groups, the clinical lameness score significantly decreased at 1, 2, 3 months after injection compared with pre-injection. The score was lower at 3 months after the injection than at 1 month. The clinical lameness score had no significant difference between the groups. Similarly, CBPI was all decreased in the single injection group and 3-weekly injections group compared to pre-injection, and the score at 3 months post-injection was lower than at 1 month. No significant differences between the groups were found in CBPI. Discussion: Most studies on the efficacy of IAHA in canine OA have been conducted using an experimental model, so studies on spontaneous canine OA are insufficient. This study confirmed that IAHA improves clinical symptoms such as pain relief and movement improvement in spontaneous OA dogs using CBPI and clinical lameness score. In order to confirm the optimal IAHA protocol, a single IAHA and 3-weekly IAHA were compared. The result shows that clinical symptoms improved in both single and 3-weekly injections groups, but no significant difference was confirmed during the 3-month study period. These findings may suggest that a single IAHA may have a similar effect to multiple IAHA, and repeated injections are unnecessary. In humans and canine OA models, it is reported that the effect of IAHA was maintained for 6 months. This study showed that the effect of IAHA was maintained for 3 months study period and that clinical symptoms improved at 3 months than at 1 month. In conclusion, these findings suggested that IAHA improves clinical symptoms in dogs with spontaneous OA, and a single IAHA showed a similar effect to 3 weekly IAHA.

Collecting information on estrus in cattle using the internet of things / Recolha de informações sobre o cio em bovinos utilizando a internet of things

Monitoring the movements of ruminant animals is one of the most challenging tasks. In animals that act according to their habits, it is difficult to label such movements and transfer them to farmers. Monitoring and recording the movement and behavior of animals on a farm is an adopted method for successfully determining the duration of the estrus cycle in ruminant animals. The Internet is a technology that offers remarkable solutions for such applications. The aim of this study is to determine the hourly step counts and to find the estrus period in the most accurate way with a circuit design applied to the ankles of animals using an IoT-supported microcontroller. The data is transferred to the web environment wirelessly and monitored via wi-fi communication signals. This wireless wearable and network equipment determines the step count and monitors the animal's abnormal body temperature. An IoT-supported microcontroller provides wireless communication, high-speed data transmission, and low power consumption. Insemination was ensured by testing different animals on the application farm. The data is monitored in real-time, and the system gives an alert. Low cost, high reliability, and being able to be watched over the internet are the advantages of the system. This study helped develop new techniques and provided a low-cost proposition for testing wearable technologies on animals.

A monitorização dos movimentos dos animais ruminantes é uma das tarefas mais difíceis. Em animais que agem de acordo com os seus hábitos, é difícil rotular esses movimentos e transferi-los para os agricultores. A monitorização e o registo dos movimentos e do comportamento dos animais numa exploração é um método adoptado para determinar com êxito a duração do ciclo de cio em animais ruminantes. A Internet é uma tecnologia que oferece soluções notáveis para tais aplicações. O objectivo deste estudo é determinar as contagens horárias de passos e encontrar o período de cio da forma mais precisa possível com um design de circuito aplicado aos tornozelos dos animais utilizando um microcontrolador suportado pela IoT. Os dados são transferidos para o ambiente Web sem fios e monitorizados através de sinais de comunicação wi-fi. Este equipamento vestível e de rede sem fios determina a contagem de passos e monitoriza a temperatura corporal anormal do animal. Um microcontrolador suportado pela IoT fornece comunicação sem fios, transmissão de dados a alta velocidade e baixo consumo de energia. A inseminação foi assegurada através de testes com diferentes animais na quinta de aplicação. Os dados são monitorizados em tempo real e o sistema emite um alerta. O baixo custo, a elevada fiabilidade e a possibilidade de ser observado através da Internet são as vantagens do sistema. Este estudo ajudou a desenvolver novas técnicas e forneceu uma proposta de baixo custo para testar tecnologias vestíveis em animais.

Determination of the minimum alveolar concentration (MAC) of isoflurane and sevoflurane in Callithrix penicillatac

Background: The minimum alveolar concentration (MAC) is a measure of quantitative anesthetic potency and has become the standard index for the evaluation and comparison of volatile anesthetics, in addition to guiding dose administration. Black-tufted marmosets (Callithrix penicillata) are primates present in the clinical and surgical routine of veterinary hospitals, as well as experimental models, especially in neuroscience. Few studies have evaluated the potency of the main volatile anesthetics in this species. This study aimed to determine the MAC of isoflurane and sevoflurane in C. penicillata using the up-and-down method and to evaluate the effects of these drugs on the quality of anesthetic induction, maintenance, and recovery. Materials, Methods & Results: Twenty-four animals of undetermined age were used. All marmosets were healthy according to hematological and physical evaluation. The animals were randomly divided into 2 groups: ISOMAC and SEVOMAC. Each animal was induced to general anesthesia in an anesthetic box with oxygen (5 L/min) and sevoflurane at 7% in the SEVOMAC group or isoflurane at 5% in the ISOMAC. Upon reaching lateral decubitus, orotracheal intubation was performed. General anesthesia was maintained with isoflurane or sevoflurane diluted in oxygen (0.8 L/min) using a non-rebreathing delivery system under spontaneous ventilation. As defined in the pilot study, the first animal from ISOMAC started the maintenance of anesthesia with 2.6% isoflurane, while the first animal in SEVOMAC received 4% sevoflurane. After finishing the instrumentation to assess heart rate, respiratory rate, systolic blood pressure, pulse oximeter oxygen saturation, end-tidal carbon dioxide concentration, and rectal temperature, a 15-min wait to reach anesthetic equilibrium was allowed, and then an electrical noxious stimulation (50 mA and 50 Hz) was performed on the lateral aspect of the thigh (a faradic current of 3 consecutive single stimuli, followed by 2 continuous stimuli). The animals' responses to the electrical stimulus were observed. The presence of a positive response (gross movement of the limbs, head, or vocalization) or a negative response (absence of gross movements) determined the increase or reduction, respectively, of the inhalation anesthetic concentration by 10% in the subsequent marmoset. The quality of anesthetic induction and recovery from anesthesia was evaluated using a scale that measured the intensity of agitation, coughing, nausea, and vomiting. Physiological variables were recorded before (M0) and after (M1) applying the nociceptive stimulus. Isoflurane and sevoflurane MAC values in C. penicillata were 2.29 ± 0.10% and 3.93 ± 0.61 % respectively. Physiological parameters, quality of anesthetic induction and recovery did not differ significantly between groups. However, isoflurane caused irritation of the airway and ocular mucous membranes, more coughing episodes, and tearing at induction. There was no difference between groups for time to extubation and recovery time to regain sternal position. Discussion: Previous studies in primates found lower MAC values for both anesthetics, except for Lemur catta. Those findings may be explained by the use of different nociceptive stimuli and the MAC determination method employed, although no differences in MAC values have been described between bracketing or up-and-down methods in human primates and dogs. It is unlikely that the stimulus and technique alone are the determining factors for the high concentration of isoflurane and sevoflurane observed in the present study since MAC was high with both halogenates, indicating that dose extrapolation from other species can lead to the wrong anesthetic dosage.

Multicriteria analysis model for foot-and-mouth disease risk classification in the state of Goiás - Brazil / Análise multicritério para a classificação do risco de febre aftosa no estado de Goiás - Brasil

Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is a viral disease that affects several animal species, including domestic and wildlife ones. The occurrence of an FMD outbreak can potentially cause a large negative impact on countries or regions' livestock production and economy. Performed over several decades, mass herd vaccination has been the main strategy to control the disease. However, countries are beginning the stage of eradicating FMD, which involves suspending vaccinations. The present study carried out a risk classification for FMD occurrence in Goiás State, Brazil by evaluating and combining multiple risk factors involved in FMD introduction and dissemination. Data from 126,345 rural properties were collected and categorized by municipality. The risk factors were grouped into two modules and then scores for each module were obtained by adding and weighting the risk factors. These combined scores resulted in the final FMD occurrence risk score. Most of the municipalities, as well as the herds were found in the lowest likelihood levels. Variables linked to herd density and animal movement played a key role in the score composition. We believed that this model can be a useful tool in the decision-making process regarding actions and strategies related to FMD eradication.

A febre aftosa (FA) é uma doença viral, febril, aguda e altamente contagiosa que afeta várias espécies domésticas e silvestres. Sua ocorrência resulta em grandes impactos negativos na cadeia pecuária e na economia de um país ou região. A FA está presente na América do Sul desde o fim do século XIX gerando esforços de órgãos oficiais no combate à enfermidade com vistas à erradicação, o que possibilitará futuramente a retirada da vacina, fato previsto no estado de Goiás para o ano de 2021. Neste sentido, o presente estudo objetivou classificar o risco de ocorrência de FA nos rebanhos do estado de Goiás. Para tanto, avaliou-se e combinou-se vários fatores de risco (FR) ligados à introdução e disseminação da FA obtidos de dados de 126.345 propriedades rurais. Estes FR foram agrupados em módulos formados por caminhos de introdução e disseminação da FA. A combinação dos FR se deu por meio de adição, sendo em seguida ponderados por pesos atribuídos por especialistas. Foram gerados os escores de introdução e disseminação de FA em Goiás, possibilitando a classificação do risco de ocorrência da doença no estado. Identificou-se que a maioria do rebanho e do território goiano se encontra em baixos níveis de risco. Foi identificada complexa composição nos níveis de risco obtidos, indicando ampla variação dos fatores que compuseram os escores de risco, especialmente nos municípios de mais alto escore de ocorrência. Variáveis ligadas à densidade de rebanho e trânsito e movimentação de animais apresentaram importante participação na composição dos escores. Acreditamos que os resultados deste trabalho podem compor uma ferramenta importante na tomada de decisão sobre as ações e estratégias de combate à FA em Goiás, ao passo que posteriores avaliações e adaptações poderão ser realizadas para a validação do modelo proposto.

Presumptive diagnosis of spina bifida in canine patient / Diagnóstico presuntivo de espinha bífida em paciente canino / Diagnóstico presuntivo de espina bífida en un paciente canino

The aim of this report is to describe a presumptive diagnosis of spina bifida in a mixed breed dog, due to previous diagnostic inconsistencies. Spina bifida is an uncommon congenital anomaly characterized by poor bone formation due to incomplete closure orthe absence of the dorsal arch of the vertebral structure during the process of embryogenesis. Animals with this condition may have difficulties in the locomotion process, which constantly threatens the quality and survival of those affected. Spina bifidacan present itself in four different forms and degrees. A 5-month-old mixed breed dog was assisted at a veterinary clinic in Conselheiro Lafaiete/MG with difficulties in the locomotion process and previous diagnostic inconsistencies in other veterinary services. On physical examination, he had kyphosis in the thoracic region and decreased proprioceptive capacity in the hind limbs. After radiographs were taken, morphological thoracic alterations were observed in the segment between the T5 to T9 vertebrae, with duplicated spinous processes and a decrease in the dimensions of the intervertebral space. The radiographic examination suggested presumptive evidence of thoracic spina bifida due to the unavailability of the tutor to perform more sensitive exams such as tomography and magnetic resonance. Therefore, drugs for pain and neuropathic control such as gabapentin and pregabalin were prescribed, at different times, until new recommendations, which have shown therapeutic efficacy to the patient. Currently, the patient uses a wheelchair adapted for locomotion due to the loss of movement of the hind limbs, in addition to weekly physical therapy follow-up and acupuncture sessions.(AU)

O objetivo do presente relato é descrever um diagnóstico presuntivo de espinha bífida em um cão sem raça definida, mediante inconsistências diagnósticas prévias. A espinha bífida é uma anomalia congênita incomum, caracterizada pela má formação óssea mediante o fechamento incompleto ou a inexistência do arco dorsal da estrutura vertebral durante o processo de embriogênese. Os animais portadores dessa condição podem apresentar principalmentedificuldades no processo de locomoção, o que ameaça constantemente a qualidade e a sobrevida dos afetados. A espinha bífida pode se apresentar de quatro diferentes formas e em graus variados. Um cão sem raça definida de 5 meses foi atendido em uma clínicaveterinária em Conselheiro Lafaeite/MG com dificuldades no processo de locomoção e inconsistências diagnósticas prévias em outros serviços veterinários. No exame físico, ele apresentava cifose em região torácica e diminuição da capacidade proprioceptiva nos membros posteriores. Após a realização de radiografias, foram observadas alterações morfológicas torácicas no segmento entre as vértebras T5 a T9, com processos espinhosos duplicados e decréscimo nas dimensões do espaço intervertebral. O exame radiográfico sugeriu evidências presuntivas de espinha bífida torácica, em virtude da indisponibilidade financeira da tutora para a realização de exames mais sensíveis como tomografia e ressonância. Diante dos sinais clínicos e exames apresentados, prescreveu-se fármacos para controle álgico e neuropático como gabapentina e pregabalina, em momentos distintos, até novas recomendações, sendo que estes demonstraram eficácia terapêutica ao paciente. Atualmente, o paciente faz uso de cadeirinha adaptada para locomoção devido à perda da movimentação dos membros posteriores, além do acompanhamento fisioterápico semanal e sessões de acupuntura.(AU)

El objetivo de este informe es describir un diagnóstico presuntivo de espina bífida en un perro sin raza definida, debido a inconsistencias diagnósticas previas. La espina bífida es una anomalía congénita poco frecuente caracterizada por una mala formación ósea debido a un cierre incompleto o la ausencia del arco dorsal de la estructura vertebral durante el proceso de embriogénesis. Los animales con esta condición pueden tener dificultades en el proceso de locomoción, lo que amenaza constantemente la calidad y supervivencia de los afectados. La espina bífida puede presentarse en cuatro formas diferentes y en diversos grados. Un perro mestizo de 5 meses de edad fue atendido en una clínica veterinaria en Conselheiro Lafaiete/MG con dificultades en el proceso de locomoción e inconsistencias diagnósticas previas en otros servicios veterinarios. Al examen físico presentaba cifosis en región torácica y disminución de la capacidad propioceptiva en miembros posteriores. Después de la toma de radiografías, se observaron alteraciones morfológicas torácicas en el segmento entre las vértebras T5 a T9, con procesos espinosos duplicados y disminución de las dimensiones del espacio intervertebral. El examen radiográfico sugirió evidencia presuntiva de espina bífida torácica debido a la falta de disponibilidad del tutor para realizar exámenes más sensibles como tomografía y resonancia magnética. Por ello, fármacos para el control del dolor y neuropático como la gabapentina y la pregabalina fueron prescritos, en diferentes momentos, hasta nuevas recomendaciones, que han demostrado eficacia terapéutica al paciente. Actualmente el paciente utiliza una silla de ruedas adaptada para la locomoción debido a la pérdida de movimiento de los miembros posteriores, además de seguimiento semanal de fisioterapia y sesiones de acupuntura.(AU)

Characterization of the cattle movement network in the state of Goiás, Brazil / [Caracterização da rede de trânsito de bovinos no estado de Goiás, Brasil]

The present study characterized the cattle movement network in the state of Goiás, Brazil, in the period from 2010 to 2016, by identifying the areas of greatest flow and the purposes for which these animals were moved. For this, an analysis of the data referring to 4,697,239 animal transit guides (GTA), specifically for bovines, issued between the years 2010 to 2016 was carried out. Data such as the number of animals transported, origin and destination, as well as purpose of movement (slaughter, finishing, reproduction, post-weaning, auctions, sports, exhibitions, exports, and others) were evaluated. The data were subjected to descriptive analysis, in which the animal movements were divided into quartiles. There was an intense movement of cattle throughout the state, mainly for the purposes of finishing and slaughter. Identifying the areas with the highest flow of animals, such as the northwest and south regions, is an important tool for planning actions and applying preventive measures against the spread of infectious agents through the territory of Goiás.

No presente estudo, foi caracterizada a rede de trânsito de bovinos no estado de Goiás, Brasil, durante o período de 2010 a 2016, identificando-se as áreas de maior fluxo e as finalidades do trânsito desses animais. Para isso, foi realizada uma análise dos dados referentes a 4.697.239 guias de trânsito animal (GTA), especificamente de bovinos, emitidas entre os anos de 2010 a 2016. Avaliaram-se informações como número de animais transitados, origem e destino, bem como finalidade de movimentação desses animais (abate, engorda, reprodução, recria, leilão, esporte, exposição, exportação, entre outras). Os dados foram submetidos à análise descritiva, optando-se pela divisão da movimentação animal em quartis. Observou-se haver trânsito intenso de bovinos em todo o estado, principalmente com a finalidade de engorda, recria e abate. A identificação das áreas que apresentam maior fluxo de animais, como as regiões noroeste e sul, torna-se uma importante ferramenta no planejamento das ações e na aplicação de medidas preventivas contra a disseminação de agentes infecciosos pelo território goiano.

Are recaptures of banded birds efficient at detecting altitudinal migrations in the Atlantic Forest?

Altitudinal migration in birds comprises seasonal movements between breeding and non-breeding areas in mountainous regions, attributed to biotic and abiotic factors. Different authors have suggested the existence of altitudinal migration between high and low areas of the mountains of the Atlantic Forest, with movement from high to low during the winter when birds would be fleeing the cold and in search of food, but there is no documented evidence. Through recaptures of understory birds, we investigated possible altitudinal migration in a region of the Atlantic Forest in Southeast Brazil. Twenty mist-nets were set at four locations between 15 and 729 m a.s.l. during 143 days of field work, distributed over 54 months and covering all seasons of the year. A total of 1946 birds (98 species) were captured/banded with 558 being recaptured (28.6%; 45 species). However, only 42 of the recaptures were at a different elevation. Most of the movements were of short distances and performed only once by birds, showing no seasonal pattern. These movements may be better interpreted as daily movements undertaken by birds of mixed-species flocks looking for food or moving around their respective home-ranges. Our results show that mist-nets may not be an effective tool in detecting altitudinal movements of birds and that other methods should be evaluated for this purpose.

Fratura exposta do fêmur em preguiça-real (Choloepus didactylus) - tratamento e reabilitação / Open fracture of the femur in a two-toed sloth (Choloepus didactylus) - treatment and rehabilitation

Background: The Choloepus didactylus is characterized by having 2 fingers on the forelimbs and 3 on the hind limbs, being found more frequently in northern South America, in countries such as Venezuela, Guyana, Ecuador, Peru, and Brazil. In Brazil, deforestation of the Amazon rainforest has threatened the survival of C. didactylus. In addition, these animals can be affected by several diseases, being those of the musculoskeletal system with limited reports. Thus, the present report aimed to describe the treatment and evolution of an open fracture of the femur in a free-living Choloepus didactylus, which after rehabilitation was released back to the wild. Case: A free-living female two-toed sloth (Choloepus didactylus), weighing 7.0 kg, was found in Manaus city and referred to the Wild Animal Treatment Center (CETAS - IBAMA-AM) located in Amazonas, Brazil, after initial treatment and osteosynthesis in a private clinic (CVMinasPet). According to history, the animal had suffered electrocution 30 days ago and, as a result, had an extensive wound that resulted in the exposure of the knee joint, distal fracture of the femur, and areas of necrosis in the right pelvic limb. After cleansing of the area and removal of necrotic tissues, the fracture was stabilized with the cross-pinning technique (2 Steinmann pins). Then, the stifle joint was stabilized with external skeletal fixation (Type 1b, unilateral biplanar). The external fixator and cross-pins were removed 2 months after the surgical procedure, being observed bone healing. Next, the animal underwent physical rehabilitation for 30 days. After the rehabilitation period, a microchip and a radio collar were applied, and the sloth was released back to the wild. Discussion: Electrocution has been one of the causes of wildlife rescue, with consequences varying depending on the degree of the burn. Generally, the burn is most severe at the entry and exit sites. Since suspensory quadrupedal locomotion requires that sloths have specialized hands and feet to connect with the supports, probably the animal of the current report touched the right pelvic limb on a high-tension pole. The cross-pinning technique combined with the external fixator was used because the animal had an exposed Salter-Harris type I fracture with soft tissue loss. The younger the animal presents physeal fractures, the greater is the chance of developing growth abnormalities due to growth plate closure caused by fracture type or immobilization method. Since the sloth was a free-living animal, the age was unknown. However, pelvic limb length discrepancy was not observed after removing the implants. Culture and antimicrobial susceptibility test were not done and may be considered a limitation of this report. However, the application of ceftriaxone was adequate to control the infection, since the animal did not show signs of infection or draining sinus tracts. Ceftriaxone is a third-generation antibiotic that can be used in chronic osteomyelitis. In addition, the animal in the present report showed good adaptation to captive conditions that contributed to the clinical management. The longevity of the sloth in captivity can reach more than 30 years, but the goal is always to return the animal to nature after the treatment. Surgical treatment of the fracture and physical therapy after implant removal allowed this action in the current report, confirmed by monitoring with the radio collar.

Influence of housing air temperature on the behavioural acts, physiological parameters and performance responses of fattening pigs

The objective of the present study was to investigate the influence of housing air temperature on the behavioural acts, physiological parameters and performance responses of fattening pigs. Animals were randomly allocated to 3 groups with 30 heads in each. During eight weeks of fattening, the animals of the two experimental groups were subjected to longterm technological temperature stress, provoked by a significant deviation of the microclimate parameters. The first control group of animals was kept following the Departmental Norms for Technological Design - Agro-Industrial Complex - 02.05 «Pig-breeding enterprises (complexes, farms, small farms)¼ at an air temperature of +17…+21 °C; pigs of the second experimental group were kept at a temperature of - +5…+8 °C, and the third experimental group - +28…+31 °C. During the experiment, the timing of behavioural acts and their index assessment, physiological parameters and productive characteristics of fattening pigs were studied. The experiment results showed that the thermoneutral zone for fattening pigs is + 17… + 21 °C. Animals 2nd experimental group showed less movement (P < 0.001), used huddling for decreasing body heat loss, more feed intake (P < 0.01), which increased its conversion, had reduced HR, RR, RT. Pigs of the 3rd experimental group showed increased movement (P < 0.001). This can be explained by their desire to find a cool place and rest lying on the side, consuming more water, having high HR, RR, and RT, showing signs of hyperthermia and were characterized by low-performance responses.

Er-Bai-Tang decoction improved the movement disorders and neuronal injury in the Parkinson's disease model rats via decreasing p38 MAPK pathway and improving the composition of intestinal flora

Purpose: Our previous study showed that Er-Bai-Tang decoction (EBT) could effectively improve Parkinson's disease (PD) patients' quality of life, sleep, mood, and cognitive disorders, but the mechanism of EBT to treat PD was unclear. So, our study aimed to explore the mechanism of EBT to treat PD via p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) pathway and intestinal flora. Methods: In our study, the PD rat model was established by subcutaneously injecting 2 mg/kg/d rotenone solution, and 23.43 g/kgEBT was used to treat PD model rats. Results: Behavioral test showed that EBT could reverse the motor impairment in the PD model rats. Hematoxylin and eosin result showed that EBT could reduce the cell necrosis in the SNpc area of the PD model rats. Western blotting and real time-polymerase chain reaction showed that EBT could decrease the p38 MAPK expression in the SNpc area of the PD model rats. 16s rRNA sequencing analysis showed that EBT could improve the composition of intestinal flora in the PD model rats. Rikenellaceae at family level and Alistipes and Allobaculum at the genus level were the key species in the PD development and EBT treatment to PD. KEGG showed that EBT might change the iron uptake in PD rats. Conclusions: EBT could improve the motor symptoms and neuronal injury in the PD model rat, and its mechanism may be related to decreasing p38 MAPK pathway and improving the composition of intestinal flora.

Composition and dynamics of mixed flocks of birds in a remnant of Submontane Atlantic Rain Forest in southern Brazil

Mixed flocks are associations of two or more species that are formed and maintained through mutual behavioral responses, with advantages such as maximizing foraging and protecting against predation. This study aimed to evaluate the composition, temporal dynamics, and presence of core species in mixed flocks of birds in a remnant of the Submontane Atlantic Rain Forest in the Parque Nacional Aparados da Serra, southern Santa Catarina state, Brazil. Data collection took place from October 2016 to September 2017 through monthly campaigns, consisting of three consecutive observation days, with sampling sessions of six hours per day, resulting in a total effort of 216 h of observations. For each contact with the flocks, we recorded the species and number of individuals, stratum of occurrence, substrates of search, and agonistic interactions. We recorded 152 mixed flocks, with a total of 76 species belonging to 24 families, and five orders, with Thraupidae, Tyrannidae, Furnariidae, and Rhynchocyclidae being the richest. The flocks had an average of 4.5 ± 2.7 species and 8.7 ± 5.8 individuals, with richness and the number of individuals being positively correlated (R² = 0.8). Mixed flocks occurred throughout the year. There was a great variation in the number of contacts from October to February (from 5 to 20 contacts). Meanwhile from March to September, the coldest period of the year in the region, the number of contacts did not vary (from 9 to 14 contacts). However, there was no difference in the number of contacts between these months (z = 0.37; p = 0.691). Basileuterus culicivorus and Habia rubica were the core species because, in addition to their high participation (46.7 and 32.9%, respectively), they showed frequent and conspicuous movement and vocalization. Thus, a high capacity to enlist a greater number of individuals from different species for the flocks was demonstrated.(AU)

Anatomical, physiological, and behavioral mechanisms of thermoregulation in elephants

Elephants use different thermoregulatory mechanisms that depend on the anatomical and morphological characteristics of the species. The crevices and wrinkles of the skin enhance the water-retention capacity of the epidermis. The highly vascularized ear is another region of particular interest, as its movement and vasomotor changes promote heat dissipation. Generally, these mechanisms are modulated by the hypothalamic thermoregulatory center and by the peripheral response of animals. Nonetheless, elephants are currently exposed to alterations in their habitats, such as global warming and climatic changes, which challenge their homeothermy. This article aims to discuss the thermoregulation mechanisms of African (Loxodonta africana) and Asian (Elephas maximus) elephants from an anatomical, physiological, and behavioral basis. The practical implications of these elements will be analyzed to implement tools, such as infrared thermography, or environmental enrichment, as strategies to promote the thermal balance of elephants.

Campylobacter spp. em animais silvestres / Campylobacter spp. in wild animals

Campylobacter sp. são patógenos multi-hospedeiros zoonóticos disseminados, que frequentemente causam gastroenterite em humanos. As aves são reservatórios de Campylobacter sp., que também ocorre naturalmente em mamíferos e já foi isolado de águas superficiais e subterrâneas. As espécies de Campylobacter colonizam prontamente o trato gastrointestinal de animais domésticos, silvestres e selvagens e, embora raramente causem doença clínica em animais de produção, podem produzir gastroenterite aguda grave em humanos. Assim, o objetivo desta revisão de literatura narrativa foi fazer um levantamento bibliográfico sobre o isolamento desse micro-organismo em animais silvestres. C. jejuni tem sido isolado de primatas não humanos cativos e livres acometidos por diarreia e saudáveis; e também de elefantes, gaivotas, abutres e outras aves silvestres. Gansos selvagens e aves silvestres são uma fonte potencial de infecção por Campylobacter sp. para humanos e outros animais, e, como os gansos são animais migratórios, eles são capazes de transferir patógenos por grandes distâncias. Cepas potencialmente virulentas dessa bactéria são eliminadas pelas fezes dos corvos. Estes animais são particularmente relevantes para a disseminação potencial de patógenos por causa de seu movimento entre áreas urbanas e agrícolas habitadas por humanos. Animais silvestres sadios, de diferentes espécies, podem albergar Campylobacter sp., agindo como veiculadores do patógeno.

Campylobacter sp. is a widespread zoonotic multi-host pathogen that often causes gastroenteritis in humans. The birds are reservoirs of Campylobacter sp., which also occurs naturally in mammals and has already been isolated from surface and groundwater. Campylobacter sp. species readily colonize the gastrointestinal tract of domestic and wild animals, and although they rarely cause clinical disease in production animals, they can produce severe acute gastroenteritis in humans. This narrative literature review aimed to carry out a bibliographic survey on the isolation of this microorganism in wild animals. C. jejuni has been isolated from captive and diarrhea-free and healthy non-human primates, as well as from elephants, seagulls, vultures, and other wild birds. Wild geese and wild birds are a potential sources of Campylobacter sp. infection to in humans and other animals, and as geese are migratory animals, they can transfer pathogens over long distances. Potentially virulent strains of these bacteria are eliminated by the feces of crows. These animals are particularly relevant to the potential spread of pathogens because of their movement between urban and agricultural areas inhabited by humans. Healthy wild animals of different species may harbor Campylobacter, acting as agent carriers.

Seasonal distribution and habitat use preference of Barking deer (Muntiacus vaginalis) in Murree-Kotli Sattian-Kahuta National Park, Punjab Pakistan / Distribuição sazonal e preferência de uso de habitat de veados-latidos (Muntiacus vaginalis) no Parque Nacional Murree-Kotli Sattian-Kahuta, Punjab Paquistão

Microhabitat factors associated with the habitat of barking deer (Muntiacus vaginalis) were examined and compared between summer and winter seasons. Habitat characteristics and preferred habitat were measured by locating direct and indirect signs. To quantify the habitat utilization of barking deer, each selected study site was sampled for floral diversity from 2015 to 2017. Quadrats were deployed along transect lines to determine seasonal distribution. Barking deer were not evenly distributed across vegetation types in the study area; they occurred more often in the broad-leaved forest than in Chir pine forest, at an elevational range of 550-850 m, in thick vegetation on steep slopes. The most preferred habitat included trees and shrubs with 30% and 69% cover, respectively. Barking deer avoided thicker tree cover, possibly as it hinders movement and escape from predators. No significant difference (χ2 = 6.37, df = 3, p = 0.19) in seasonal vegetation cover was recorded.

Fatores de micro-hábitat associados ao hábitat do veado (Muntiacus vaginalis) foram examinados e comparados entre as estações de verão e inverno. As características do hábitat e o hábitat preferido foram medidos, localizando sinais diretos e indiretos. Para quantificar a utilização do hábitat de cervos-latidos, cada local de estudo selecionado foi amostrado para a diversidade floral de 2015 a 2017. Quadrats foram implantados ao longo de linhas de transecto para determinar a distribuição sazonal., Veados-latidos não foram distribuídos uniformemente pelos tipos de vegetação na área de estudo; ocorreram com mais frequência na floresta de folhas largas do que na floresta de pinheiros Chir, em uma faixa de elevação de 550-850 m, em vegetação densa, em encostas íngremes. O hábitat mais preferido incluía árvores e arbustos com 30% e 69% de cobertura, respectivamente. O veado-latido evitou uma cobertura de árvores mais espessa, possivelmente porque impede o movimento e a fuga de predadores. Nenhuma diferença significativa (χ2 = 6,37; df = 3; p = 0,19) na cobertura vegetal sazonal foi registrada.

Seasonal distribution and habitat use preference of Barking deer (Muntiacus vaginalis) in Murree-Kotli Sattian-Kahuta National Park, Punjab Pakistan / Distribuição sazonal e preferência de uso de habitat de veados-latidos (Muntiacus vaginalis) no Parque Nacional Murree-Kotli Sattian-Kahuta, Punjab Paquistão

Microhabitat factors associated with the habitat of barking deer (Muntiacus vaginalis) were examined and compared between summer and winter seasons. Habitat characteristics and preferred habitat were measured by locating direct and indirect signs. To quantify the habitat utilization of barking deer, each selected study site was sampled for floral diversity from 2015 to 2017. Quadrats were deployed along transect lines to determine seasonal distribution. Barking deer were not evenly distributed across vegetation types in the study area; they occurred more often in the broad-leaved forest than in Chir pine forest, at an elevational range of 550-850 m, in thick vegetation on steep slopes. The most preferred habitat included trees and shrubs with 30% and 69% cover, respectively. Barking deer avoided thicker tree cover, possibly as it hinders movement and escape from predators. No significant difference (χ2 = 6.37, df = 3, p = 0.19) in seasonal vegetation cover was recorded.

Fatores de micro-hábitat associados ao hábitat do veado (Muntiacus vaginalis) foram examinados e comparados entre as estações de verão e inverno. As características do hábitat e o hábitat preferido foram medidos, localizando sinais diretos e indiretos. Para quantificar a utilização do hábitat de cervos-latidos, cada local de estudo selecionado foi amostrado para a diversidade floral de 2015 a 2017. Quadrats foram implantados ao longo de linhas de transecto para determinar a distribuição sazonal., Veados-latidos não foram distribuídos uniformemente pelos tipos de vegetação na área de estudo; ocorreram com mais frequência na floresta de folhas largas do que na floresta de pinheiros Chir, em uma faixa de elevação de 550-850 m, em vegetação densa, em encostas íngremes. O hábitat mais preferido incluía árvores e arbustos com 30% e 69% de cobertura, respectivamente. O veado-latido evitou uma cobertura de árvores mais espessa, possivelmente porque impede o movimento e a fuga de predadores. Nenhuma diferença significativa (χ2 = 6,37; df = 3; p = 0,19) na cobertura vegetal sazonal foi registrada.

Lysosomal storage disease induced by Sida planicaulis (Sin. Sida carpinifolia) (Malvaceae) in sheep in the state of Rio de Janeiro / Doença do armazenamento lisossomal induzida por Sida planicaulis (Sin. Sida carpinifolia) (Malvaceae) em ovinos no estado do Rio de Janeiro

Ingestion of S. planicaulis (Sin. S. carpinifolia) causes lysosomal storage disease in sheep. The main toxic compound of this plant, swainsonine, inhibits the enzymatic activity of α-mannosidase I and II, resulting in lysosomal storage of glycoproteins. We describe a case of spontaneous poisoning by S. planucaulis in Rio de Janeiro state, Brazil. Physical examination of affected animals revealed proprioceptive deficit, motor incoordination, staggering movement, and head tremors. Histopathological evaluation showed severe swelling/cytoplasmic vacuolization in Purkinje neurons, with a foamy appearance and occasional karyolysis or karyopyknosis, and intense vacuolization of acinar cells of the pancreas and, less markedly, thyroid follicular cells. The positive lectin-histochemistry labeling for Con A, WGA and sWGA lectins characterized the disease as a glycoproteinosis. The ultrastructural evaluation revealed numerous vacuoles up to 2.5µm in diameter bounded by membranes up to 20nm thick in pancreatic acinar cells. The diagnosis of S. planicaulis toxicity was established based on epidemiological data, clinicopathological, lectino-histochemical, and ultrastructural findings. This is the second report of spontaneous poisoning of sheep by S. planicaulis in Brazil, but the first in the Southeastern Brazil.

A ingestão de S. planicaulis (Sin. S. carpinifolia) tem sido responsabilizada por doença do armazenamento lisossomal em ovinos. O principal composto tóxico dessa planta, a swainsonina, inibe atividade enzimática da α-manosidase I e II, que redunda no armazenamento de glicoproteínas no interior de lisossomos. Descreveu-se um caso de intoxicação espontânea por S. planicaulis no estado do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil. O exame físico dos animais afetados revelou déficit proprioceptivo, incoordenação motora, cambaleio à movimentação e tremores de intenção e na cabeça. A avaliação histopatológica evidenciou severa tumefação/vacuolização citoplasmática em neurônios de Purkinje, com aspecto espumoso e eventual cariólise ou cariopicnose e intensa vacuolização de células acinares do pâncreas e, menos marcadamente, foliculares da tireoide. O exame lectino-histoquímico positivo para as lectinas Con A, WGA e sWGA foi capaz de caracterizar a enfermidade como uma glicoproteinose. A avaliação ultraestrutural revelou numerosos vacúolos de até 2,5µm de diâmetro, delimitados por membranas de até 20nm de espessura em células acinares do pâncreas. O diagnóstico da intoxicação por S. planicaulis foi estabelecido com base nos dados epidemiológicos, nos achados clínico-patológicos e confirmado pelas avaliações lectino-histoquímica e ultraestrutural. Esta é segunda descrição da intoxicação natural por S. planicaulis em ovinos no Brasil e a primeira na região Sudeste do país.

Dredging on water bodies and margin interventions: effects on fish / Dragagem de corpos hídricos e intervenções em margens: efeitos nos peixes

The urbanization process deeply affects rivers and streams, with numerous impacts, such as the dis-charge of sewers, dams, and pipework, causing profound changes in the water bodies characteristics and in their biota. In this scenario, the silting of rivers suffers one of the most impactful changes, as it undergoes a reduction in the depth and width of the rivers, triggering physical and chemical changes in the water, as well as in the structure of fish population, its feeding and reproduction habitats. As a palliative measure, it is normal to carry out the desilting (dredging) of rivers, an activity that is also very impacting. Floodings are one of the main factors that demand dredging to be carried out. This re-view was made to analyze desilting activities, their effects on biota and migratory fish, as well as to evaluate the best management strategies and mitigation of impacts on fish population. The shifting and removal of sediment from the riverbed can cause burial and massive death of eggs and larvae, in addition to interfering in the upward and downward migration of eggs, larvae, and adults of migratory fish. In addition, breeding and feeding sites can be impacted by sediment movement, dredging, and deposition. Some actions minimize the impacts of the silting activity recovering riparian forests, ins-pect the use of soil on the banks, move urban settlements away, assess the dredging site, consider the spawning sites and reduce the suspension of bottom sediments, as well as choose the best equipment and time for the performance of activities. Therefore, the development of research on the effect of dredging of water bodies on fish would contribute to a better management of the activity.(AU)

O processo de urbanização afeta diretamente os rios e riachos com inúmeros impactos, como lançamento de esgotos, barramentos e canalizações, que causam profundas alterações em suas características e tam-bém na sua biota. O assoreamento dos rios se caracteriza como uma das mais impactantes alterações, pois acarreta redução da profundidade e largura dos rios, pode provacar alterações físicas e químicas na água, bem como na estrutura de hábitats de alimentação e reprodução dos peixes. Como medida paleativa, é normal realizar a execução de desassoreamento (dragagem) dos rios, atividade esta também muito impac-tante. As enchentes é um dos principais fatores que fazem com que a dragagem seja executada. No intuito de analisar as atividades de desassoreamentos, seus efeitos na biota e nos peixes migradores, bem como avaliar as melhores estratégias de gestão e mitigação dos impactos nos peixes, foi elaborado a presente revisão. Como constatado a movimentação e a remoção de sedimento do leito do rio podem causar soter-ramento e morte massiva de ovos e larvas, além de interferir na migração ascendente e descendente de ovos, larvas e adultos de peixes migradores. Além disso, sítios de reprodução e alimentação podem ser im-pactados pela movimentação, dragagem e deposição do sedimento. Recuperar as matas ripárias, realizar a fiscalização do uso do solo nas margens, afastar os assentamentos urbanos, fazer a avaliação do local de dragagem considerando os locais de desova e diminuindo a suspensão de sedimentos de fundo, bem como escolher o melhor equipamento e época para a realização das atividades, são medidas que minimizam os impactos da atividade de desassoreamento. Sendo assim, o desenvolvimento de pesquisas sobre o efeito da dragagem em peixes contribuiria com uma melhor gestão desta atividade.(AU)