The Influence of porcine parity on colostrum cytokine levels and their passive transfer to piglets / A influência da paridade suína na diferença dos níveis de citocinas no colostro e na transferência passiva para leitões

The limited ability of newborn piglets to produce cytokines may influence lymphocyte development and response to antigen exposure. As a result, colostrum intake is crucial because it contains nutrients that contribute to immune system development in piglets. Our goal was to investigate the effect of sow parity on the transfer of maternal cytokines to nursing piglets. Sixty piglets from nine sows were divided into six groups: piglets from gilts or sows kept with their dams and allowed to suckle normally; piglets from gilts or sows having their dams exchanged and then allowed to suckle normally; piglets from gilts or sows isolated from their dams and bottle-fed a commercial milk replacer formula for pigs. All piglets remained in the diet groups for 24 hours after birth. Concentrations of cytokines in colostrum and serum of gilt/ sows and serum of piglets were then evaluated. The 13 evaluated cytokines had higher concentrations in colostrum and serum of sows than in gilts. Concentrations of GM-CSF, IFNγ, IL-1α, IL-1ß, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, IL-12, IL-18, and TNFα were higher in piglets suckling sows. Piglets that received commercial formula showed higher concentrations of the cytokines IL1-RA and IL-8 than piglets fed colostrum. This outcome can influence piglets' development into adulthood. In short, our findings demonstrated that maternal parity influenced colostrum cytokine composition and its maternal transfer patterns.(AU)

A capacidade limitada dos leitões recém-nascidos de produzir citocinas pode influenciar o desenvolvimento de linfócitos e a resposta à exposição ao antígeno. Portanto, a ingestão de colostro é importante porque contém nutrientes, que contribuem para o desenvolvimento do sistema imunológico do leitão. O objetivo do estudo foi investigar o efeito da paridade da porca na transferência de citocina materna para leitões lactentes. Sessenta leitões de nove porcas foram divididos em seis grupos: leitões de marrãs/porcas mantidas com suas próprias mães e amamentadas normalmente; leitões de marrãs/porcas que foram trocados de mães e amamentados normalmente; leitões de marrãs/porcas que foram isolados das mães e alimentados com mamadeira com substituto do leite para suínos. Os leitões permaneceram nos grupos por 24 horas após o nascimento. Foram avaliadas as concentrações de citocinas no colostro e plasma das marrãs/porcas e no plasma dos leitões. O colostro e o plasma das porcas apresentaram maiores concentrações das 13 citocinas analisadas do que as marrãs. No mesmo sentido, as concentrações de GM-CSF, IFNγ, IL-1α, IL-1ß, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, IL-12, IL-18 e TNFα foram significantemente maiores nos leitões que mamaram o colostro de porcas. Os leitões que receberam fórmula comercial apresentaram, em especial, concentrações das citocinas IL1-RA e IL-8 superiores aos leitões amamentados com colostro. Isso pode influenciar o desenvolvimento até a fase adulta. Portanto, nossos dados demonstraram que a paridade materna influenciou a composição das citocinas do colostro, bem como as características das citocinas na transferência materna.(AU)

Risk factors associated with stillbirth in sows / Fatores de risco associados à natimortalidade em fêmeas suínas

In this study, the risk factors associated with stillbirth in sows were identified and their odds ratio assessed. For this purpose, 587 farrowings on Farm A and 929 on Farm B were monitored, and the sow parity, body condition score, farrowing duration, total number of piglets born, numbers of live births, stillbirths, and mummified piglets, obstetric interventions, and piglet sex and weight were recorded. At the end of farrowing, piglets classified as stillborn were necropsied to confirm the diagnosis. Consequently, 5.49% of the piglets on Farm A and 5.10% of those on Farm B were stillborn. On both farms, sows with a high parity, prolonged farrowing, and a large litter size had the highest odds ratio of stillbirths. On Farm B, farrowing intervention through the use of vaginal palpation and oxytocin increased the odds of stillbirth by 1.7 and 2.5 times, respectively. Heavy litters increased the odds of stillbirth by 1.4 times. Additionally, low-birth-weight piglets were 2.3 and 3.1 times more likely than their medium-birth-weight and high-birth-weight counterparts, respectively, to be stillborn. In conclusion, on both farms, the risk factors associated with stillbirth were a high parity, a large litter size, and prolonged farrowing.

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar os fatores de risco associados ao nascimento de natimortos em fêmeas suínas e a razão de chance para a sua ocorrência. Foram acompanhados 587 partos na granja A e 929 na granja B onde foram registrados: ordem de parto, escore de condição corporal, duração do parto, total de nascidos, nascidos vivos, natimortos, mumificados, intervenções ao parto, peso e o sexo dos leitões. Ao final do parto foi realizada necropsia dos leitões classificados como natimortos a fim de confirmar o diagnóstico. A ocorrência de leitões natimortos foi de 5,49% e 5,10% na granja A e B, respectivamente. Fêmeas de maior ordem de parto, com partos prolongados e leitegadas mais numerosas apresentaram maior chance da ocorrência de leitões natimortos em ambas as granjas. Na granja B a necessidade de intervenção ao parto através do uso de ocitocina e palpação vaginal aumentaram a chance da presença de leitões natimortos em 1,7 e 2,5 vezes, respectivamente. Leitegadas pesadas aumentaram em 1,4 vezes as chances de ocorrência de leitões natimortos. No entanto, leitões com menor peso ao nascer aumentam em 2,3 vezes as chances de natimortos, quando comparadas a leitões de peso intermediário, e 3,1 vezes em relação a leitões com maior peso de nascimento. Os fatores de risco associados à ocorrência de natimortos nas duas granjas foram a ordem de parto elevada, leitegadas numerosas e partos prolongados.

Prevalence and severity of claw lesions in sows in intensive systems in Brazil / Prevalência e severidade de lesões de casco em porcas confinadas no Brasil

Swines raised in intensive systems are highly susceptible to claw lesions. Moderate to severe lesions trigger an inflammatory response, causing pain and impairing reproductive and economic performance. Foot lesions in sows can cause considerable losses owing to reduced fertility and herd longevity. Proper diagnosis is an important step in correcting this problem; however, the seriousness of the impact of these lesions on swine herds remains unclear to most farm owners. Health monitoring has become an essential tool for veterinarians because it enables the detection of disease incidence and severity. In this study, we assessed claw lesions in sows reared under an intensive system to ascertain the prevalence and severity of lesions in Brazilian herds. The hind limb claws of 2,660 sows from 30 farms were examined for the following lesions: heel overgrowth and erosion (HOE), heel-sole cracks, white line lesions (WL), horizontal and vertical cracks in the toe wall, overgrown toes, and overgrown or missing dew claws. Claws were classified as normal (score = 0), mild (score = 1), moderate (score = 2), or severe (score = 3). At least one type of lesion was observed in 99.1% of the sows, whereas 29.7% displayed severe lesions. HOE was the most common lesion (89.9% of sows) and severe WL was observed in 16.8% of the sows. Lesions increased in prevalence and severity with parity, except for WL. In young females, lesions on the volar surface were more common than those on cracked walls or overgrown toes, which should be considered when selecting gilts for breeding. A high prevalence of claw lesions was observed in Brazilian sows. Monitoring of these lesions is fast and simple. Regular monitoring provides information on claw health in a herd over time, allowing us to take measures to control and treat claw lesions, avoiding worsening of the problem, early culling of animals, and the associated productive and economic losses.

Suínos criados em sistemas intensivos são altamente suscetíveis a lesões de casco. Quando moderadas a graves, essas lesões desencadeiam uma resposta inflamatória, causando dor e prejudicando o desempenho reprodutivo e econômico. Em porcas, as lesões nos cascos podem causar consideráveis perdas devido à redução da fertilidade e longevidade do rebanho. O diagnóstico adequado é um dos passos mais importantes para corrigir esse problema, mas a gravidade do impacto dessas lesões nos rebanhos suínos passa despercebida na maioria das propriedades. O monitoramento sanitário tornou-se uma ferramenta essencial para os médicos veterinários, pois possibilita a detecção da incidência e gravidade da doença. O presente estudo utilizou um método de avaliação de lesões de casco em porcas criadas em sistema intensivo para verificar a prevalência e gravidade das lesões em rebanhos brasileiros. Os cascos dos membros pélvicos de 2.660 porcas, de 30 granjas, foram examinados para as seguintes lesões: crescimento e erosão da almofada plantar (AP), rachadura entre almofada plantar e sola, lesão na linha branca (LB), rachaduras horizontal e vertical da parede do casco, sobrecrescimento da unha principal e sobrecrescimento ou amputação da unha acessória. Os cascos foram classificados como normais (escore = 0) ou apresentando lesões leves (escore = 1), moderadas (escore = 2) ou graves (escore = 3). Pelo menos um tipo de lesão foi observado em 99,1% das porcas, enquanto 29,7% apresentaram lesões graves. AP foi a lesão mais comum (89,9% das porcas) e LB severa foi observada em 16,8% das porcas. As lesões aumentaram em prevalência e severidade com as ordens de parto, com exceção para LB. Em fêmeas jovens, as lesões na face plantar foram mais comuns do que as rachaduras ou sobrecrescimento das unhas, algo que deve ser levado em consideração na seleção de leitoas para reprodução. Alta prevalência de lesões de casco foi observada em porcas brasileiras. A avaliação dessas lesões é rápida e simples. O monitoramento frequente fornece informações sobre a saúde dos cascos de um rebanho ao longo do tempo, permitindo tomar medidas para o controle e tratamento das lesões dos cascos, evitando o agravamento do problema, o descarte precoce dos animais e as perdas produtivas e econômicas associadas.

The equine endometrium and its multiple connections, interrelationships and clinical effects in aged mares

Mares, which make up 90% of animals requiring reproductive assistance in commercial equine production systems, are subjected to strong breeding and reproductive efficiency pressure throughout their lives, but the effects of aging on overall and reproductive systems in particular; it often means that we are forcing the natural homeostasis mechanisms under pressure over time. The objective of this brief communication is to summarize some concepts related to the role and importance of equine endometrium, particularly in old mares, the most challenged category to achieve productive and efficiency goals established by humans. Endometritis is one of the most frequent and recurrent pathologies in equine gynecology and is responsible for enormous economic losses in the industry. Alterations of the microbiota, molecular signals and uterine endocrine microenvironment can lead to infertility, but degenerative phenomena associated with age and parity can lead to endometriosis altering maternal recognition of pregnancy and pregnancy maintenance. Maintaining horses in an adequate nutrition status and environment is essential to achieve pregnancy but also to obtain healthy offspring.(AU)

Blood concentrations of calcium, phosphorus and magnesium and dietary cation-anion difference in dairy cows / Concentrações sanguíneas de cálcio, fósforo e magnésio e diferença cátion-ânion da dieta de vacas leiteiras

The objective of this study was to identify the effect of pre and postpartum DCAD on serum levels of calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium in peripartum Holstein cows. Blood samples were collected from 56 cows (18 primiparous and 38 multiparous) on days -7, +7, +14 and +28 relative to parturition, to determine serum levels of total and ionized calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and albumin; diet samples for determination of calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and DCAD were collected at the same moments and urine samples were collected at day -7 for measurement of urinary pH. Prepartum DCAD was positively correlated with total calcium (p = 0.02) and with corrected total calcium (p = 0.01) at day -7. There was a negative correlation between prepartum DCAD and magnesium levels at day -7 (p = 0.02). No influence of prepartum DCAD on phosphataemia was observed. Postpartum DCAD did not correlate with serum mineral levels at any time point. Our results demonstrate that prepartum DCAD can influence calcium and magnesium homeostasis, but not phosphorus. In addition, parity and time period should be considered when evaluating serum levels of these minerals in Holstein cows during transition period.

Objetivou-se identificar o efeito da DCAD pré e pós-parto nos níveis séricos de cálcio, fósforo e magnésio, em vacas Holandesas em periparto. Foram coletadas amostras de sangue de 56 vacas (18 primiparas e 38 multiparas) nos dias -7, +7, +14 e +28 em relação ao parto, para determinação dos níveis séricos de cálcio total e ionizado, fósforo, magnésio e albumina; amostras de alimento foram coletadas nos mesmos momentos para determinação dos níveis cálcio, fósforo, magnésio e DCAD dietético; e amostras de urina foram coletadas no dia -7, para mensuração do pH urinário. A DCAD pré-parto foi positivamente correlacionada com cálcio total (P = 0,02) e com cálcio total corrigido (P = 0,01) no dia -7. Houve correlação negativa entre a DCAD pré-parto e os níveis de magnésio no momento -7 (P = 0,02). Não houve influência da DCAD pré-parto na fosfatemia. A DCAD pós-parto não se correlacionou com os níveis séricos de minerais em nenhum momento. Os resultados demonstram que a DCAD pré-parto pode influenciar na homeostase do cálcio e do magnésio, mas não do fósforo. Além disso, as variáveis paridade e tempo devem ser consideradas ao se avaliarem os níveis séricos desses minerais em bovinos leiteiros da raça Holandesa em transição.

Cryptosporidium infection in diarrheal bovine dairy calves: occurrence and risk factors in Santa Catarina, Brazil / Infecção por Cryptosporidium em bezerros com diarreia: ocorrência e fatores de risco em Santa Catarina, Brasil

Cryptosporidium protozoa genus are parasites that cause acute enteric disease in young and immunocompromised animals, resulting in anorexia, loss and decrease in weight gain, and, in severe cases, death. Therefore, this study aimed: i) to determine the occurrence of Cryptosporidium spp. in calves with clinical diarrhea in different regions of Santa Catarina, Brazil; ii) to evaluate the risk factors involved with the frequency of infection. iii) to determine the species most involved with the disease in the region. For this, 425 samples were collected in 141 dairy farms, from animals with ages ranging from 0 to 150 days. For this purpose, the samples were submitted to the modified Ziehl-Neelsen technique, with molecular analysis of the positive samples being performed. It was observed 62.1% occurrence of Cryptosporidium spp. in this sampling, especially between 8 to 15 days. Regarding the risk factors evaluated, such as age, management, facilities, water source and Koppen climate (CFA and CFB), none showed statistical significance. Samples positive by the Ziehl-Neelsen technique (32 samples) were randomly selected for molecular diagnosis. Of these, 10 were sequenced, allowing the identification of Crypstosporidium parvum in 6 samples. However, this study proves the existence and high occurrence of the protozoan in different regions of the state of Santa Catarina, Brazil.

Os protozoários do gênero Cryptosporidium são parasitas que causam doença entérica aguda em animais jovens e imunocomprometidos, resultando em anorexia, perda e diminuição do ganho de peso e, em casos graves, morte. Portanto, este estudo teve como objetivo determinar a ocorrência de Cryptosporidium spp. em bezerros com diarreia clínica em diferentes regiões de Santa Catarina, Brasil; bem como avaliar os fatores de risco envolvidos com a frequência de infecção. Além disso, com um número seleto de amostras, buscou-se determinar as espécies mais envolvidas com a doença na região por meio de técnicas moleculares. Para isso, foram coletadas 425 amostras em 141 fazendas leiteiras, de animais com idade variando de 0 a 150 dias. Observou-se 62,1% de ocorrência de Cryptosporidium spp. nesta amostragem, principalmente entre 8 a 15 dias. Em relação aos fatores de risco avaliados, como idade, manejo, instalações, fonte hídrica e clima de Koppen (CFA e CFB), nenhum apresentou significância estatística. No entanto, este estudo comprova a existência e alta ocorrência do protozoário em diferentes regiões do estado de Santa Catarina, Brasil.

Evaluation of automated monitoring calving prediction in dairy buffaloes a new tool for calving management / Avaliação do monitoramento automatizado da previsão de parto em búfalos leiteiros: uma nova ferramenta para o gerenciamento de parto

Buffalo is one of the leading milk-producing dairy animals. Its production and reproduction are affected due to some factors including inadequate monitoring around parturition, which cause economic losses like delayed birth process, increased risk of stillbirth, etc. The appropriate calving monitoring is essential for dairy herd management. Therefore, we designed a study its aim was, to predict the calving based on automated machine measured prepartum behaviors in buffaloes. The data were collected from n=40 pregnant buffaloes of 2nd to 5th parity, which was synchronized. The NEDAP neck and leg logger tag was attached to each buffalo at 30 days before calving and automatically collected feeding, rumination, lying, standing, no. of steps, no. of switches from standing to lying (lying bouts) and total motion activity. All behavioral data were reduced to -10 days before the calving date for statistical analysis to use mixed model procedure and ANOVA. Results showed that feeding and rumination time significantly (P<0.05) decreased from -10 to -1 days before calving indicating calving prediction. Moreover, Rumination time was at lowest (P<0.001) value at 2h before the calving such behavioral changes may be useful to predict calving in buffaloes. Similarly, lying bouts and standing time abruptly decreased (P<0.05) from -3 to -1 days before calving, while lying time abruptly increased (P<0.01) from -3 to -1 days before calving (531.57±23.65 to 665.62±18.14, respectively). No. of steps taken and total motion significantly (P<0.05) increased from -10 to -1 days before calving. Feeding time was significantly (P<0.02) lowered in 3rd parity buffaloes compared with 2nd, 4th and 5th parity buffaloes, while standing time of 5th parity buffaloes were lowered (P<0.05) as compared to 2nd to 4th parity buffalos at -1 day of prepartum. However, rumination, lying, no. of steps taken and total motion activity at -1 day of prepartum was independent (P>0.05) of parity in buffaloes. Neural network analysis for combined variables from NEDAP technology at the daily level yielded 100.0% sensitivity and 98% specificity. In conclusion NEDAP technology can be used to measured behavioral changes -10 day before calving as it can serve as a useful guide in the prediction calving date in the buffaloes.(AU)

O búfalo é um dos principais animais produtores de leite. Sua produção e sua reprodução são afetadas por causa de alguns fatores, incluindo o monitoramento inadequado ao redor do parto, que causam perdas econômicas, como atraso no processo de parto, aumento do risco de natimorto, etc. O monitoramento adequado do parto é essencial para o manejo do rebanho leiteiro. Portanto, projetamos um estudo cujo objetivo foi prever o parto com base em comportamentos pré-parto medidos por máquina automatizada em búfalas. Os dados foram coletados de 40 búfalas prenhes de 2ª a 5ª paridade, que foi sincronizada. A etiqueta NEDAP de pescoço e perna foi fixada em cada búfala 30 dias antes do parto e coletava dados, automaticamente, durante a alimentação e a ruminação, em posição deitada e em pé, além do número de passos, número de mudanças de pé para deitado (período deitado) e atividade de movimento total. Todos os dados comportamentais foram reduzidos para -10 dias antes da data do parto para análise estatística usando o procedimento de modelo misto e ANOVA. Os resultados mostraram que o tempo de alimentação e de ruminação diminuiu significativamente (P<0,05) de -10 dias para -1 dia antes do parto, indicando a previsão de parto. Além disso, o tempo de ruminação apresentou seu menor valor (P<0,001) 2 horas antes do parto, e tais mudanças comportamentais podem ser úteis para predizer o parto em búfalas. Da mesma forma, o período deitado e o tempo em pé diminuíram abruptamente (P<0,05) de -3 dias para -1 dia antes do parto, enquanto o tempo deitado aumentou abruptamente (P<0,01) de -3 dias para -1 dia antes do parto (531,57 ± 23,65 para 665,62± 18,14, respectivamente). O número de passos dados e o movimento total aumentaram significativamente (P<0,05) de -10 para -1 dias antes do parto. O tempo de alimentação foi significativamente (P<0,02) reduzido em búfalas de 3ª paridade em comparação com búfalas de 2ª, 4ª e 5ª paridade, enquanto o tempo de espera de búfalas de 5ª paridade foi reduzido (P<0,05) em comparação com búfalas de 2ª a 4ª paridade em -1 dia antes do parto. No entanto, ruminação, posição deitada, número de passos dados e atividade de movimento total em -1 dia antes do parto foram independentes (P>0,05) da paridade em búfalas. A análise de rede neural para variáveis ​​combinadas da tecnologia NEDAP no nível diário produziu 100% de sensibilidade e 98% de especificidade. Em conclusão, a tecnologia NEDAP pode ser usada para medir mudanças comportamentais -10 dias antes do parto, pois pode servir como um guia útil para prever a data do parto em búfalas.(AU)

Ultrasound measurements of uterine height, horns diameter and presence of intraluminal fluid to investigate uterine involution in lactating sows housed in farrowing crates

The uterine involution of sows housed in farrowing crates was investigated during lactation using B-mode trans-abdominal ultrasonography. The objectives were to describe uterine involution, detect any delay or uterine disorders and assess possible associations between involution and subsequent reproductive performance. Three parameters were measured: uterine height (H), horns diameter (D) and the percentage of sows with intraluminal fluid (F). During lactation (3-4 weeks), H decreased from 11.0±1.6 the first week to 5.9±1.5 cm the last week (p<0.001), and D from 2.6±0.7 to 1.4±0.2 cm (p<0.001). Between days 1-7, H and D decreased significantly faster, i.e. respectively 0.38 cm (p<0.0001) and 0.20 cm (p<0.0001) per day than between days 22-28, i.e. respectively 0.02 cm (p=0.49) and 0.00 cm (p=0.75) per day. F decreased significantly (p<0.0001) from 78% at the beginning to 16% at the end of lactation. Between days 1-7, F decreased significantly (p<0.001) faster than during the last week of lactation (p=0.41). Between days 22-28, H of sows from parity ≥3 were significantly higher than those of sows from parity 1 and 2 (p=0.007). During that period, F was significantly higher in sows of higher parity. This effect of parity on F was significantly higher during the entire lactation period in sows of parity ≥6. Some sows were monitored after weaning. There was no significant relationship between the 3 parameters measured at the end of lactation and the subsequent performance. A small number of sows was suspected of endometritis (2%) and one case of fœtoplacental retention was detected. In conclusion, B-mode ultrasonography is a suitable tool to monitor uterine involution in lactating sows. When examination is conducted during the last week of lactation, it may help the farmer to verify whether uterine involution is complete, and to decide whether a sow should be either culled or maintained on farm.(AU)

Effect of parity segregation on Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae infection dynamics and pneumonic lesions in pigs / Efeito da ordem de parto segregada sobre a dinâmica de infecção de Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae e lesões pulmonares ao abate

Gilts represent a group risk for Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae vertical transmission in swine herds. Therefore, parity segregation can be an alternative to control M. hyopneumoniae infections. The study evaluated the effect of parity segregation on M. hyopneumoniae infection dynamics and occurrence and severity of lung lesions at slaughter. For that, three multiple site herds were included in the study. Herd A consisted of the farm where gilts would have their first farrowing (parity order (PO) 1). After the first farrowing PO 1 sows were transferred to herd B (PO2-6). Herd C was a conventional herd with gilt replacement (PO1-6). Piglets born in each herd were raised in separated nursery and finishing units. Sows (n = 33 (A), 37 (B), 34 (C)) in all herds were sampled prior to farrowing and piglets (n = 54 (A), 71 (B), 66 (C)) were sampled longitudinally at 21, 63, 100, 140 days of age and at slaughter for M. hyopneumoniae detection by PCR and lung lesions scoring. M. hyopneumoniae prevalence in sows did not differ among herds. Prevalence of positive piglets was higher at weaning in the PO1 herd (A) (P < 0.05). However, prevalence of positive pigs from 100 days of age to slaughter age was higher in the PO2-6 herd (B) (P < 0.05). Lung lesion occurrence and severity were higher in herd B. The authors suggested that the lack of a proper gilt acclimation might have influenced the results, leading to sows being detected positive at farrowing, regardless of the parity.

As leitoas consistem em um grupo de risco na transmissão vertical de Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae dentro do sistema de produção de suínos. Dessa forma, a segregação de partos poderia ser utilizada como alternativa para controlar as infecções por M. hyopneumoniae. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o efeito da segregação de partos sobre a dinâmica de infecção de M. hyopneumoniae e a ocorrência e severidade das lesões pulmonares ao abate. Para isso três sistemas de produção de suínos com três sítios cada foram incluídos no estudo. A granja A consistia da unidade onde as leitoas tem o primeiro parto, ou seja, alojava somente de fêmeas de ordem de parto 1 (Granja OP1). Após o primeiro parto as fêmeas OP1 foram transferidas para a granja B (Granja OP2-6), ou seja, consistia de fêmeas de ordem de parto 2 a 6, e a granja C consistiu em uma granja convencional com reposição de leitoas (Granja OP1-6), com fêmeas de ordem de parto 1 a 6. Os leitões nascidos de cada granja foram transferidos e criados em creches e terminações segregadas. As matrizes (n = 33 (A), 37 (B), 34 (C)) de todas as granjas do estudo foram amostradas previamente ao parto e os leitões (n = 54 (A), 71 (B), 66 (C)) foram amostrados longitudinalmente aos 21, 63, 100 e 140 dias de idade e ao abate. Em todos os momentos de coleta, as amostras foram avaliadas por PCR para detecção de M. hyopneumoniae. As lesões pulmonares foram avaliadas e escores de lesão foram atribuídos ao abate. A prevalência de matrizes positivas para M. hyopneumoniae não diferiu entre as granjas (P > 0,05). A prevalência ao desmame foi maior na granja A (OP1) (P < 0,05). No entanto, dos 100 dias de idade até o abate a prevalência de leitões positivos para M. hyopneumoniae foi maior na granja B (OP2-6) (P < 0,05). A ocorrência e severidade de lesões pulmonares foram maiores na granja B. Os autores sugerem que a falta de uma aclimatação adequada das leitoas pode ter influenciado nos resultados, levando à detecção de matrizes positivas ao parto, independente da ordem de parto.

Application of PGF2α at the moment of fixed-time artificial insemination in crossbred beef cows

Although studies have shown positive effects of gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) or prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α) at the moment of fixed-time artificial insemination (FTAI) in the conception rate (CR) of cattle, its effects on treatments based on progesterone (P4) and estradiol benzoate (EB) is still not conclusive. The objective of this study was (1) to evaluate the effect of a PGF2α analogue at FTAI in the CR of crossbred beef cows submitted to a 11d FTAI protocol based on P4 and EB; and (2) to describe the CR between PGF2α-treated and control cows in different body condition scores (BCS) and parity categories. Crossbred (½ Nellore and ½ Angus) beef cows were submitted to a synchronization protocol and randomly assigned into 2 groups: Control (n = 163), at FTAI cows received 2 mL of saline solution as a placebo, and PGF2α (n = 163), at FTAI cows were treated with PGF2α analogue (10 mg of dinoprost tromethamine). Pregnancy diagnosis was performed 33d post-FTAI. Binary logistic regression model was used to analyze the effect of PGF2α treatment on CR. There was no difference in CR between PGF2α and control groups (P > 0.05; odds ratio (OR) = 0.92; confidence interval (CI) = 0.59-1.4). A greater CR was found in heifers (P = 0.0006, OR = 2.65, CI = 1.61 - 4.38) and multiparous (P = 0.0006, OR = 2.12, CI = 1.04 - 4.3) when compared to primiparous cows. Cows with low BCS (4; 9-point scale) showed lower CR when compared with moderate BCS (5-6; 9-point scale) (P < 0.05; OR = 0.10; CI = 0.06 - 0.18). There was no numerical difference on CR between PGF2α-treated and control cows in different BCS and parity categories. The results suggested that the CR in this study was not influenced by 10 mg PGF2α analogue at FTAI.(AU)

Behavioral and physiological performance of different gilt breeds during lactation

We evaluated the maternal behavior, physiology, and reproductive performance of both Damin (Min-pig × Large White) and Large White gilts to identify the advantages hybrid sows offer with regard to stress relieve and improvement of the welfare level of sows during late lactation. First-parity Damin gilts (n = 40) and firstparity Large White gilts (n = 40) were farrowed in individual pens. Video surveillance was used to monitor the occurrence of lateral recumbency and compare it to other postures, such as ventral recumbency, defecation, urination, tail posture, sham-chewing, and bar-biting behaviors. Monitoring was conducted from 07:00 to 09:00 h and from 13:00 to 15:00 h on days 3 and 6 of each week from the third to the fifth week postparturition. In addition, the concentrations of tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6, and salivary α-amylase were assessed. During the fourth week postpartum, Damin gilts showed a higher frequency of postural changes from lateral recumbency to other postures and less ventral recumbency, sham-chewing, and bar-biting behavior compared with Large White gilts. However, no significant differences were found between Damin and Large White gilts with regard to urination, defecation, tail wagging, and "tail low" behaviors. The concentrations of serum interleukin-6, salivary α-amylase, and serum tumor necrosis factor-α were higher in Damin gilts than in Large White gilts during the fifth week postpartum. Damin gilts partly achieve lower stress levels during late lactation and better animal welfare than purebred Large White gilts.(AU)

Reproductive performance of single fixed-time inseminated sows with semen doses submitted to different semen storage times

This study aimed to evaluate the reproductive performance of sows submitted to single fixed-time insemination (SFTAI) using boars according to capacity for liquid in vitro semen preservation, type of extender, and storage time. Boars (n = 12) were classified into two groups based on progressive motility (PM) at 120 h of semen storage: low (PM - 64.5%) - and high-preservation (PM - 83.9%) capacity for semen storage. Weaned sows (n = 397, parity - 1 to 7) were inseminated (1.5×109 sperm cells) in a factorial design: two classes of boars (low- or high-preservation), two types of extenders (short- or long-term), and two semen storage times at insemination (24 or 72 h). An adapted triptorelin acetate protocol was used for SFTAI. Total sperm motility (TM) and PM at insemination were greater in high-preservation boars at 72 h compared with low-preservation boars at 24 or 72 h (P < 0.01). Short- or long-term extender did not affect (P ≥ 0.68) TM and PM in high-preservation boars; however, long-term extender improved these parameters in low-preservation boars (P < 0.01). Pregnancy and farrowing rates were not affected by groups (P > 0.05). Total piglets born (TPB) was reduced (P = 0.05) in low-preservation boars with 72 h of storage (13.6 ± 0.5) compared to high-preservation boars with semen stored for 24 or 72 h (15.2 ± 0.5 and 15.5 ± 0.5, respectively). The low-preservation boars reduced the TPB in sows submitted to SFTAI, and this reduction was greater using semen stored for 72 h.(AU)

Prepartum supplementation of soybean oil as an energy source for sows and their litters

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of pre-farrowing lipid supplementation for three days on performance parameters of sows and piglets and the survival rate of litters. Four hundred hyperprolific sows were randomly distributed in blocks according to their body condition score, weight, and parity order. Three levels of soybean oil were added on top at the time of feed supply and compared to the control treatment. The levels were: 250 mL, 500 mL, and 1,000 mL, in addition to the control that contained only the crude fat present in the feed (5.04%). Sows were weighed and evaluated for their body condition score at the beginning and end of the lactation period, and their piglets were weighed at birth, after 24 h, and at weaning to determine colostrum yield of the sow and daily weight gain of piglets during the lactation period. Survival rate of litters was also evaluated. Weight loss of gilts decreased linearly as the level of supplemented oil increased. The other parameters evaluated were not affected by treatments, suggesting that the supplemented soybean oil was used for growth rather than milk production of gilts. Additionally, it had no effect on the performance of multiparous females. Under the experimental conditions of this study, soybean oil supplementation for gilts in the first three days before farrowing decrease their weight loss but does not change their body condition score, colostrum yield, and performance and survival of their litters.(AU)

Dried distillers grains with solubles in diets during late gestation affects behavior and maintains the performance of sows

We examined the effect of dried distillers grains with solubles (DDGS) in diets for late gestating sows on sow and litter performance, colostrum chemical composition, and sow behavior. Sixty gestating sows of 3.77±1.65 parity were divided into three groups of 20 animals, in a randomized block design with 0 (corn-soybean meal diet), 150, or 300 g kg−1 DDGS from 84 days of gestation until farrowing. Sows fed 300 g kg−1 DDGS presented a lower frequency of standing position and eating activity. The lying lateral position was more frequent in the first 40 min post-feeding for sows fed the highest DDGS level. There was no effect of diets on sow and litter performance; however, DDGS inclusion tended to increase lactation feed intake. Inclusion of DDGS was inclined to produce more lactose and less protein in colostrum, but did not affect colostrum fat, total solids, and ash contents. Inclusion of up to 300 g kg−1 DDGS in the diet of late gestation sows does not change sow and litter performance and colostrum composition compared with corn-soybean meal diets, but it favored animal welfare.(AU)

Expeller soybean meal: evaluation of Holstein cow production and in vitro ruminal kinetic / Farelo de soja expeller: avaliação da produção de vacas holandesas e cinética ruminal in vitro

We aimed to evaluate the inclusion of expeller soybean meal on the quality and milk production of Holstein cows, as well to estimate and compare the inherent parameters of the in vitro ruminal kinetics. Data collection was carried out on a private property, in the interior of the municipality of Dois Vizinhos - Paraná, Brazil. Twenty Holstein cows were used, divided into two treatments: one with the inclusion of expeller soybean meal and the other with conventional soybean meal. The design used was completely randomized with parity. Milk production was evaluated through weighing. Milk samples were collected on days 0, 15, 30 and 45 to evaluate the milk protein, fat, urea nitrogen, lactose and total solids. The In vitro ruminal kinetics of convencional and expeller soybean meal was performed at the Universidade Tecnológica Federal do Paraná - Paraná, Dois Vizinhos. The gas pressure and volume measures were taken after 1, 2, 3, 6, 8, 10, 12, 16, 20, 24, 30, 36, 48 and 72 hours of sample incubation. The results obtained were applied in a two-compartmental mathematical model with no latency time in the first compartment for description of ruminal kinetics. Data were analyzed by variance (ANOVA) and compared by the F test. There was no significant difference in any of the variables evaluated from mil production and quality when soybean meal expeller was included in the animals' diet (P>0.05). The expeller soybean meal showed a lower degradation compared to the conventional meal. There were no significant differences for milk production as for concentration of solids in milk.

O objetivo foi avaliar a inclusão do farelo de soja expeller na qualidade e produção do leite de vacas holandesas, assim como estimar e comparar os parâmetros inerentes a cinética ruminal in vitro do farelo de soja convencional e expeller. A coleta de dados a campo foi realizada em propriedade particular, no interior do município de Dois Vizinhos - Paraná, Brasil. Foram utilizadas 20 vacas holandesas, divididas em dois tratamentos: um com inclusão de farelo de soja expeller e o outro com farelo de soja convencional. O delineamento utilizado foi inteiramente casualizado com paridade. Foi avaliada a produção do leite através de pesagem diária. Amostras de leite foram coletadas nos dias 0, 15 e 30 para determinação de proteína, gordura, nitrogênio ureico, lactose e sólidos totais. cinética ruminal in vitro do farelo de soja convencional e farelo de soja expeller foi realizada na Universidade Tecnológica Federal do Paraná, campus Dois Vizinhos. As leituras de pressão e volume foram realizadas após 1, 2, 3, 6, 8, 10, 12, 16, 20, 24, 30, 36, 48 e 72 horas de incubação. Os resultados obtidos foram aplicados em modelo matemático bicompartimental sem latência no primeiro compartimento para descrição da cinética ruminal. Os dados foram submetidos à análise de variância (ANOVA) e comparados pelo Teste F. Quanto a produção e qualidade do leite, não houve diferenças significativa para as variáveis avaliadas quando incluído o farelo de soja expeller na dieta dos animais (P>0,05). O farelo de soja expeller apresentou uma degradação inferior comparada ao farelo convencional. Não houve diferenças significativas para a produção de leite como para a concentração de sólidos no leite.

Association of selected risk factors with bovine subclinical mastitis / Associação de fatores de risco selecionados com mastite subclínica bovina

A total of 695 Holstein Friesian lactating dairy cows were examined for the prevalence of subclinical mastitis (SCM) and its association with selected risk factors in a private dairy farm at Fayoum district, Egypt. 444 lactating cows with 1145 quarters were found positive for SCM with prevalence of 63.88% and 41.18% at cow and quarter level respectively based on California Mastitis Test (CMT), Electrical Conductivity (EC) that had a mean value of 6.27 ± 0.066 mS/cm and Somatic Cell Count (SCC) with a mean value of 8.8×105± 9.2×103 cells/ml. The risk factors investigated in this study revealed that the highest percentage of SCM was observed in winter, in cows at the late lactation stage with a percentage of 32.21 and 59.91 respectively. The results concluded that the young age cows were exposed to SCM more than old ones. While the occurrence of SCM was higher in cows with 2nd, 3rd and 1st than those with 4, 5, 6th parity number. The analytical results also revealed that there is a highly significant difference (p < 0.05) between numbers of parity. However, there is no significant difference (p > 0.05) between different stages of age, lactation and season as risk factors.(AU)

Um total de 695 vacas leiteiras Holstein Friesian lactantes foram examinadas para a prevalência de mastite subclí-nica (SCM) e sua associação com fatores de risco selecionados em uma fazenda privada de leite no distrito de Fayoum, Egito. 444 vacas em lactação com 1145 quartos foram consideradas positivas para SCM com prevalência de 63.88% e 41.18% no nível de vacas e quartos, respectivamente com base no California Mastitis Test (CMT), Condutividade Elétrica (EC) que teve um valor médio de 6.27 ± 0.066 mS / cm e Contagem de células somáticas (SCC) com um valor médio de 8.8 × 105± 9.2 × 103 células / ml. Os fatores de risco investigados neste estudo revelaram que o maior percentual de SCM foi observado no inverno, em vacas no final da lactação com um percentual de 32.21 e 59.91 respectivamente. Os resultados concluíram que as vacas jovens foram mais expostas ao SCM do que as vacas velhas. Enquanto a ocorrência de SCM foi maior nas vacas com 2, 3 e 1ª do que nas com 4, 5 e 6 números de paridade. Os resultados analíticos também revelaram que existe uma diferença altamente significativa (p <0.05) entre os números de paridade. No entanto, não há diferença significativa (p> 0.05) entre os diferentes estágios de idade, lactação e estação do ano como fatores de risco.(AU)

Influence of lactation number and parity on milk yield of Saanen goat's breed / [Influência do número de lactação e paridade na produção de leite da raça de cabras Saanen]

The aim of this research was to determine the influence of lactation number and parity on milk yield of Saanen goat's breed. It has been concluded that milk yield was higher for goats that had given birth to twins and three kids than for goats that had given birth to a single kid (P<0.05). The longevity has a great positive impact on production, given that goats in the fifth lactation produced more milk than goats in first or second lactation (P<0.05), while goats in the sixth lactation still produced more milk than goats in first lactation (P<0.05). During the period from 2014- 2019, the research was conducted on a farm of multiparous Saanen goats in Vojvodina (northern part of Serbia). In the observed period, the farm had between 350 and 400 goats per milking, and the research included a total of 1,628 concluded lactations, within which the first lactations were the most 484, then the second 381. According to the number of lactations, goats were grouped into classes from one to seven and from one to three for parity. By comparing each individual lactation, it was determined that in first lactation goats produced significantly lower milk than goats in the rest lactations(P<0.05), except the seventh. Research has shown that lactation number has a significant influence on milk yield (P=0.00). Increasing the fertility of goats significantly affects the production capacity of dairy goats, since does with a larger number of kids in the litter had a significantly higher milk production (P<0.05). Due to the larger number of kids in the litter, milk production also increases. Likewise, it is assumed that the increase in milk yield of goats with two and three kids is a consequence of a larger placenta, i.e. stronger lactogenic activity during pregnancy.(AU)

O objetivo desta pesquisa foi determinar a influência do número de lactações e da paridade na produção de leite da raça de cabras Saanen. Concluiu-se que a produção de leite era maior para caprinos que haviam dado à luz gêmeos e três cordeiros do que para caprinos que haviam dado à luz um único cordeiro (P<0,05). A longevidade tem um grande impacto positivo na produção, dado que as cabras na quinta lactação produziram mais leite do que as cabras na primeira ou segunda lactação (P<0,05), enquanto as cabras na sexta lactação ainda produziram mais leite do que as cabras na primeira lactação (P<0,05). Durante o período de 2014- 2019, a pesquisa foi realizada numa fazenda de cabras Saanen multipares em Voivodina (parte norte da Sérvia). No período observado, a fazenda tinha entre 350 e 400 cabras por ordenha, e a pesquisa incluiu um total de 1.628 lactações concluídas, dentro das quais as primeiras lactações foram as mais 484, depois as segundas 381. De acordo com o número de lactações, as cabras foram agrupadas em classes de um a sete e de um a três para paridade. Comparando cada lactação individual, determinou-se que na primeira lactação as cabras produziram leite significativamente menor do que as cabras nas demais lactações (P<0,05), exceto a sétima. Pesquisas mostraram que o número de lactações tem uma influência significativa na produção de leite (P=0,00). O aumento da fertilidade das cabras afeta significativamente a capacidade de produção de caprinos leiteiros, já que com um número maior de cabritos na ninhada a produção de leite foi significativamente maior (P<0,05). Devido ao maior número de cabritos na ninhada, a produção de leite também aumenta. Da mesma forma, assume-se que o aumento na produção de leite de cabras com dois e três cabritos é uma consequência de uma placenta maior, ou seja, de uma atividade lactogênica mais forte durante a gestação.(AU)

Association of selected risk factors with bovine subclinical mastitis / Associação de fatores de risco selecionados com mastite subclínica bovina

A total of 695 Holstein Friesian lactating dairy cows were examined for the prevalence of subclinical mastitis (SCM) and its association with selected risk factors in a private dairy farm at Fayoum district, Egypt. 444 lactating cows with 1145 quarters were found positive for SCM with prevalence of 63.88% and 41.18% at cow and quarter level respectively based on California Mastitis Test (CMT), Electrical Conductivity (EC) that had a mean value of 6.27 ± 0.066 mS/cm and Somatic Cell Count (SCC) with a mean value of 8.8×105± 9.2×103 cells/ml. The risk factors investigated in this study revealed that the highest percentage of SCM was observed in winter, in cows at the late lactation stage with a percentage of 32.21 and 59.91 respectively. The results concluded that the young age cows were exposed to SCM more than old ones. While the occurrence of SCM was higher in cows with 2nd, 3rd and 1st than those with 4, 5, 6th parity number. The analytical results also revealed that there is a highly significant difference (p 0.05) between different stages of age, lactation and season as risk factors.

Um total de 695 vacas leiteiras Holstein Friesian lactantes foram examinadas para a prevalência de mastite subclí-nica (SCM) e sua associação com fatores de risco selecionados em uma fazenda privada de leite no distrito de Fayoum, Egito. 444 vacas em lactação com 1145 quartos foram consideradas positivas para SCM com prevalência de 63.88% e 41.18% no nível de vacas e quartos, respectivamente com base no California Mastitis Test (CMT), Condutividade Elétrica (EC) que teve um valor médio de 6.27 ± 0.066 mS / cm e Contagem de células somáticas (SCC) com um valor médio de 8.8 × 105± 9.2 × 103 células / ml. Os fatores de risco investigados neste estudo revelaram que o maior percentual de SCM foi observado no inverno, em vacas no final da lactação com um percentual de 32.21 e 59.91 respectivamente. Os resultados concluíram que as vacas jovens foram mais expostas ao SCM do que as vacas velhas. Enquanto a ocorrência de SCM foi maior nas vacas com 2, 3 e 1ª do que nas com 4, 5 e 6 números de paridade. Os resultados analíticos também revelaram que existe uma diferença altamente significativa (p 0.05) entre os diferentes estágios de idade, lactação e estação do ano como fatores de risco.

Relationship between reproductive performance and meteorological variables in French Alpine goats in the northwestern part of Croatia

The study aimed to determine the relationship between reproductive performance, kidding distribution, and birth weight of French Alpine goats and meteorological variables in the northwestern part of Croatia throughout six consecutive years (from 2013 until 2018). During the study, French Alpine goats (n=948) on the 6 dairy goat farms, birthed 1025 goat kids after 893 successful matings (55 matings were unsuccessful) during six consecutive years. The average birth weight was 3.46±0.48 kg for females (n=478) and 3.71±0.51 kg for male kids (n=547). French Alpine does with single kids accounted for 85.89% (n=767), with twins 13.44% (n=120) and triplets 0.67% (n=6). The average litter size was 1.15, and the average parity was 2.95. The birth weight of goat kids in primiparous and pluriparous goats was not significantly different. Survival rate (until 1 month of age) was 93.66 % (n=960). French Alpine does fertility in northwestern Croatia, through six years was 94.18%. Seasonal kidding of French Alpine was distributed mostly on two seasons: winter (73.57%) and spring (24.52%) in the northwestern part of Croatia during six consecutive years 2013-2018. Observed differences in the kidding distribution per month during the years of observation were statistically significant (P = 0.018). The highest number of kidding was recorded in February in all years of observation. It can be concluded that there was not any relationship between monthly air temperature and precipitation amounts with tested reproductive performances in French Alpine dairy goats in the NW part of Croatia during the observed period.(AU)

Relationship between reproductive performance and meteorological variables in French Alpine goats in the northwestern part of Croatia

The study aimed to determine the relationship between reproductive performance, kidding distribution, and birth weight of French Alpine goats and meteorological variables in the northwestern part of Croatia throughout six consecutive years (from 2013 until 2018). During the study, French Alpine goats (n=948) on the 6 dairy goat farms, birthed 1025 goat kids after 893 successful matings (55 matings were unsuccessful) during six consecutive years. The average birth weight was 3.46±0.48 kg for females (n=478) and 3.71±0.51 kg for male kids (n=547). French Alpine does with single kids accounted for 85.89% (n=767), with twins 13.44% (n=120) and triplets 0.67% (n=6). The average litter size was 1.15, and the average parity was 2.95. The birth weight of goat kids in primiparous and pluriparous goats was not significantly different. Survival rate (until 1 month of age) was 93.66 % (n=960). French Alpine does fertility in northwestern Croatia, through six years was 94.18%. Seasonal kidding of French Alpine was distributed mostly on two seasons: winter (73.57%) and spring (24.52%) in the northwestern part of Croatia during six consecutive years 2013-2018. Observed differences in the kidding distribution per month during the years of observation were statistically significant (P = 0.018). The highest number of kidding was recorded in February in all years of observation. It can be concluded that there was not any relationship between monthly air temperature and precipitation amounts with tested reproductive performances in French Alpine dairy goats in the NW part of Croatia during the observed period.