Addition of curcumin in dairy sheep diet in the control of subclinical mastitis

Background: Curcumin, a polyphenol derived from rhizome of Curcuma longa, has been successfully used in animals and humans due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Recently, a study demonstrated that curcumin ointment reduced pain, mammary tension and erythema in humans with mastitis 72 h after the treatment. Mastitis in sheep is an important problem due to restrictions associated to the use of antibiotics, affecting milk production and becoming a public health issue. Thus, the aim of this study was to verify whether the addition of curcumin in the diet of six female sheep with subclinical mastitis could have curative efficacy and benefits to animal health.Cases: Six Lacaune sheep with subclinical mastitis that persisted for more than thirty days after the parturition were used. The animals received feed containing the curcumin (60 mg/animal/day) during 10 days. On days 0 and 10 of the experiment, total blood was collected to perform the hemogram and serum biochemistry (triglycerides, cholesterol, glucose, total protein (TP), albumin, globulin, aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and urea), as well as individual milk samples for centesimal composition, somatic cell count (SCC) and total bacterial count (TBC). Total leukocytes and erythrocytes, as well as hemoglobin content, were obtained using the hematological counter CELM-CC-550. Blood smears were stained by the Romanowsky method and used for leukocytes differentiation. After ten days of treatment, five sheep were negative in the California Mastitis Test (CMT). Total erythrocytes increased, while total leukocytes decreased after the treatment. Seric levels of AST, triglycerides, cholesterol and globulins decreased, while seric levels of albumin and urea increased after ten days of treatment. No differences were observed regarding milk production and composition, as well as for SCC and TBC on days 0 and 10 post-treatment.[...]

Addition of curcumin in dairy sheep diet in the control of subclinical mastitis

Background: Curcumin, a polyphenol derived from rhizome of Curcuma longa, has been successfully used in animals and humans due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Recently, a study demonstrated that curcumin ointment reduced pain, mammary tension and erythema in humans with mastitis 72 h after the treatment. Mastitis in sheep is an important problem due to restrictions associated to the use of antibiotics, affecting milk production and becoming a public health issue. Thus, the aim of this study was to verify whether the addition of curcumin in the diet of six female sheep with subclinical mastitis could have curative efficacy and benefits to animal health.Cases: Six Lacaune sheep with subclinical mastitis that persisted for more than thirty days after the parturition were used. The animals received feed containing the curcumin (60 mg/animal/day) during 10 days. On days 0 and 10 of the experiment, total blood was collected to perform the hemogram and serum biochemistry (triglycerides, cholesterol, glucose, total protein (TP), albumin, globulin, aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and urea), as well as individual milk samples for centesimal composition, somatic cell count (SCC) and total bacterial count (TBC). Total leukocytes and erythrocytes, as well as hemoglobin content, were obtained using the hematological counter CELM-CC-550. Blood smears were stained by the Romanowsky method and used for leukocytes differentiation. After ten days of treatment, five sheep were negative in the California Mastitis Test (CMT). Total erythrocytes increased, while total leukocytes decreased after the treatment. Seric levels of AST, triglycerides, cholesterol and globulins decreased, while seric levels of albumin and urea increased after ten days of treatment. No differences were observed regarding milk production and composition, as well as for SCC and TBC on days 0 and 10 post-treatment.[...](AU)

Salmonella Heidelberg resistant to ceftiofur and disinfectants routinely used in poultry / Salmonella Heidelberg resistente ao ceftiofur e desinfetantes rotineiramente utilizados na avicultura

Bacteria of the genus Salmonella may infect humans and domestic animals, causing a serious public health problem worldwide. Nowadays, Salmonella enterica serovar Heidelberg (SH) is among the top three serovars isolated from people with salmonellosis and it is present in the poultry production chain. Moreover, it seems to be more invasive than other serotypes that cause enteritis. The overall status of the antimicrobial resistant of Brazilian strains of SH is still unknow. The bacterium may use similar mechanisms of resistance to antibotics, as well as disinfectants such as the efflux system and enzymatic degradation of chemical compounds. Thus, the objective of this study was to identify the Minimal Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) for ceftiofur of SH isolated from different materials of poultry origin, as well as to verify the relation between antibiotic resistance and disinfectant resistance. In addition, the screening efflux system was performed, using ethidium bromide to determine the presence of this mechanism of resistance. MIC results indicated high levels of SH resistance to ceftiofur, indicating the need for alternative drugs to treat salmonellosis. The concentration of ceftiofur needed to eliminate SHresistant isolates were 32 times higher than the therapeutic dose. Regarding disinfectants, most of the disinfectants tested were efficient to eliminate SH, however one isolate was resistant to glutaraldehyde-quaternary ammonia. All isolates were negatives in the screening efflux system, which suggest a different mechanism of resistance. It is possible to conclude that SH shows a real threat to poultry production, and caution should be taken when choosing the right antibiotic and disinfectant against this serovar.(AU)

Bactérias do gênero Salmonella podem infectar o homem e animais domésticos, causando sérios problemas de saúde pública no mundo todo. Hoje, a Salmonella enterica serovar Heidelberg (SH) está entre os três sorovares mais comumente isolados de pessoas com salmonelose, e presente na cadeia produtiva avícola. Além disso, SH parece ser mais invasiva que outros sorovares que causam enterite.O perfil geral de resistência aos antimicrobianos de cepas brasileiras de SH ainda é desconhecido. Esta bactéria parece usar mecanismos de resistência aos antibióticos similares aos usados para desinfetantes,tais como a bomba de efluxo e a degradação enzimática de compostos químicos. Por isso, o objetivo deste trabalho foi de identificar a Concentração Mínima Inibitória (CMI) para o ceftiofur de isolados de SH oriundas de produtos avícolas diversos, bem como de verificar a relação entre resistência a antibióticos e desinfetantes. Além disso, o sistema de bomba de efluxo foi realizado usando o brometo de etídio para determinar se esse era o mecanismo de resistência utilizado. Os resultados do MIC indicaram altos níveis de resistência para ceftiofur, demonstrando a necessidade de formas alternativas para o tratamento da salmonelose. Desinfetantes routineiramente utilizados pela indústria avícola foram eficientes no combate da SH, porém um isolado mostrou-se resistente ao desinfetante glutaraldeído associado à amônia quaternária. Todos os isolados foram negativos para o sistema de bomba de efluxo,sugerindo que há outro mecanismo de resistência envolvido. É possível concluir que os isolados brasileiros de SH representam uma ameaça para a avicultura, e cautela deveria ser tomada na hora da escolha do antibiótico e do desinfetante a ser utilizado contra este sorovar.(AU)

Insecticidal action of glycerol monolaurate against the lesser mealworm (Alphitobius diaperinus) and its ecotoxicological effect on Enchytraeus crypticus

Background: Alphitobius diaperinus, known as the lesser mealworm, is recognized as a problem for the poultry production sector. Several chemical methods have been employed in an attempt to control it, without successful results. Thus, alternative methods should be considered as an interesting approach to control this type of infestation. A recent study showed that glycerol monolaurate (GML) possesses insecticidal effect against bees. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate, for the first time, the effect of GLM against the larval and adult forms of the lesser mealworm in vitro, and to verify whether GLM treated poultry litter used as soil fertilizer exerts any negative effect on its fauna.Materials, Methods & Results: In vitro tests were performed using three concentrations of GLM: 0.2, 0.4 and 1 mg mL-1, and the number of dead larvae and adults of A. diaperinus was counted on days 0, 2, 5 and 8 post-treatment. Poultry litter was pulverized with 1 mg mL-1 of GML, maintained under controlled conditions for 20 days and revolved every two days. Two ecotoxicological tests were performed using Enchytraeus crypticus. In the first test, GML was applied directly into the soil at doses of 0.5, 1 and 2 mg kg-1 of soil, while the second test used poultry litter as soil fertilizer at concentrations of 0, 2, 4 and 8 tons per hectare. Insecticidal action of GML against larvae and adults of A. diaperinus where only the 1 mg mL-1 concentration showed positive effect. GML caused 100% mortality of larvae two days after the beginning of treatment. Similarly, GML showed high efficacy to control adult forms of A. diaperinus, causing 83 and 90% of mortality on days 5 and 8 post-treatment, respectively.[...]

Insecticidal action of glycerol monolaurate against the lesser mealworm (Alphitobius diaperinus) and its ecotoxicological effect on Enchytraeus crypticus

Background: Alphitobius diaperinus, known as the lesser mealworm, is recognized as a problem for the poultry production sector. Several chemical methods have been employed in an attempt to control it, without successful results. Thus, alternative methods should be considered as an interesting approach to control this type of infestation. A recent study showed that glycerol monolaurate (GML) possesses insecticidal effect against bees. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate, for the first time, the effect of GLM against the larval and adult forms of the lesser mealworm in vitro, and to verify whether GLM treated poultry litter used as soil fertilizer exerts any negative effect on its fauna.Materials, Methods & Results: In vitro tests were performed using three concentrations of GLM: 0.2, 0.4 and 1 mg mL-1, and the number of dead larvae and adults of A. diaperinus was counted on days 0, 2, 5 and 8 post-treatment. Poultry litter was pulverized with 1 mg mL-1 of GML, maintained under controlled conditions for 20 days and revolved every two days. Two ecotoxicological tests were performed using Enchytraeus crypticus. In the first test, GML was applied directly into the soil at doses of 0.5, 1 and 2 mg kg-1 of soil, while the second test used poultry litter as soil fertilizer at concentrations of 0, 2, 4 and 8 tons per hectare. Insecticidal action of GML against larvae and adults of A. diaperinus where only the 1 mg mL-1 concentration showed positive effect. GML caused 100% mortality of larvae two days after the beginning of treatment. Similarly, GML showed high efficacy to control adult forms of A. diaperinus, causing 83 and 90% of mortality on days 5 and 8 post-treatment, respectively.[...](AU)

Repellent effects of andiroba and copaiba oils against Musca domestica (common house fly) and ecotoxicological effects on the environment

Background: The main challenge in raising cattle in Brazil is related to ectoparasites, that cause negative effects on milk and meat production, and in severe cases, animal death. Sheds known as crèches attracts large number insects mainly due to milk residues in the environment. The housefly is a major problem due to act as vectors of many other diseases, and so there is the possibility of control of infestations with natural products. Andiroba and copaiba oils may act as natural biocides, there are only a few studies on their effect on biological soil parameters. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the repellent effect of andiroba and copaiba oils against flies and on biological soil parameters. Materials, Methods & Results: The repellency effect of oils of andiroba and copaiba was tested at a concentration of 5% in lambs shed maternity, containing 64 bays (1.8 m2 ). It was sprayed 30 mL per pen, where they were housed five lambs each. Pre-treatment counts were taken before the treatment (mean 46 per pen after Musca domestica), and post-treatment count was made on 2, 24 and 48 h. The data collected at 2 and 24 h was evaluated and the number of flies was reduced significantly (P < 0.001) in the pens treated with oil of copaiba and andiroba compared to control (untreated) pen. After 48 h, no difference was observed between treatments in relation to fly numbers [...](AU)

Repellent effects of andiroba and copaiba oils against Musca domestica (common house fly) and ecotoxicological effects on the environment

Background: The main challenge in raising cattle in Brazil is related to ectoparasites, that cause negative effects on milk and meat production, and in severe cases, animal death. Sheds known as crèches attracts large number insects mainly due to milk residues in the environment. The housefly is a major problem due to act as vectors of many other diseases, and so there is the possibility of control of infestations with natural products. Andiroba and copaiba oils may act as natural biocides, there are only a few studies on their effect on biological soil parameters. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the repellent effect of andiroba and copaiba oils against flies and on biological soil parameters. Materials, Methods & Results: The repellency effect of oils of andiroba and copaiba was tested at a concentration of 5% in lambs shed maternity, containing 64 bays (1.8 m2 ). It was sprayed 30 mL per pen, where they were housed five lambs each. Pre-treatment counts were taken before the treatment (mean 46 per pen after Musca domestica), and post-treatment count was made on 2, 24 and 48 h. The data collected at 2 and 24 h was evaluated and the number of flies was reduced significantly (P < 0.001) in the pens treated with oil of copaiba and andiroba compared to control (untreated) pen. After 48 h, no difference was observed between treatments in relation to fly numbers [...]

The protective effects of an adsorbent against oxidative stress in quails fed aflatoxin-contaminated diet

Background: Contamination of crops with aflatoxin is considered a serious global threat to food safety, since potent carcinogenic, teratogenic, mutagenic and immunosuppressive effects of aflatoxins are well recognized. Recently, the use of adsorbents has been linked with protective effects against oxidative stress in several diseases. Thus, the aim of this study was to assess the occurrence of oxidative stress in quails (Coturnix coturnix) fed with aflatoxin-contaminated diet, as well as the protective effect of an adsorbent.Materials, Methods & Results: Twenty-eight quails were divided into four groups (n = 7): diet without additives (control; the group A), diet and adsorbent containing aluminosilicates (the group B), aflatoxin-contaminated diet (200 ppb) (the group C), and aflatoxin-contaminated diet (200 ppb) and adsorbent containing aluminosilicates (the group D). The composition of the adsorbent containing aluminosilicates was 0.3% based on yeast cell wall, silymarin, and bentonite. The animals received feed and water ad libitum during 20 days. At the end of the experimental period, total blood was collected by cardiac puncture in tubes without anticoagulant to obtain serum (centrifuged at 3500 g during 10 min) for later determination of biochemical parameters. The liver was placed in a solution of Tris–HCl 10 mM, pH 7.4 for TBARS (Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances), ROS (Reactive oxygen species), SOD (Superoxide dismutase) and CAT (Catalase) analysis. The hepatic tissue was gently homogenized in a glass potter in specific buffer, homogenated, and centrifuged at 10.000 g at 4ºC for 10 min to yield a supernatant (S1) used for analyses. Homogenate aliquots were stored at -80°C until utilization. Fragments of liver and intestine (5 cm) were collected for histopathological analyses. Between days 15 to 20 of the experiment, group C quails showed clinical signs, such as apathy, creepy feathers and reduced feed intake.[...]

The protective effects of an adsorbent against oxidative stress in quails fed aflatoxin-contaminated diet

Background: Contamination of crops with aflatoxin is considered a serious global threat to food safety, since potent carcinogenic, teratogenic, mutagenic and immunosuppressive effects of aflatoxins are well recognized. Recently, the use of adsorbents has been linked with protective effects against oxidative stress in several diseases. Thus, the aim of this study was to assess the occurrence of oxidative stress in quails (Coturnix coturnix) fed with aflatoxin-contaminated diet, as well as the protective effect of an adsorbent.Materials, Methods & Results: Twenty-eight quails were divided into four groups (n = 7): diet without additives (control; the group A), diet and adsorbent containing aluminosilicates (the group B), aflatoxin-contaminated diet (200 ppb) (the group C), and aflatoxin-contaminated diet (200 ppb) and adsorbent containing aluminosilicates (the group D). The composition of the adsorbent containing aluminosilicates was 0.3% based on yeast cell wall, silymarin, and bentonite. The animals received feed and water ad libitum during 20 days. At the end of the experimental period, total blood was collected by cardiac puncture in tubes without anticoagulant to obtain serum (centrifuged at 3500 g during 10 min) for later determination of biochemical parameters. The liver was placed in a solution of Tris–HCl 10 mM, pH 7.4 for TBARS (Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances), ROS (Reactive oxygen species), SOD (Superoxide dismutase) and CAT (Catalase) analysis. The hepatic tissue was gently homogenized in a glass potter in specific buffer, homogenated, and centrifuged at 10.000 g at 4ºC for 10 min to yield a supernatant (S1) used for analyses. Homogenate aliquots were stored at -80°C until utilization. Fragments of liver and intestine (5 cm) were collected for histopathological analyses. Between days 15 to 20 of the experiment, group C quails showed clinical signs, such as apathy, creepy feathers and reduced feed intake.[...](AU)

Salmonella Heidelberg isolated from poultry shows a novel resistance profile

Background: The development of antimicrobial resistance in bacteria is a serious public health issue worldwide. Salmonella spp. is considered a leader cause of gastrointestinal disease in animals and humans, and poultry products have been reported as an important reservoir of the bacterium. S. Heidelberg became lately one of the most prevalent serovars found in several countries. However, hardly any information is available about the epidemiology and the resistance profile of it. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine the antibiotic resistance profile of S. Heidelberg (SH) and to compare to S. Enteritidis (SE) and S. Typhimurium (ST) isolated from the Southern part of Brazil. Materials, Methods & Results: A total of 162 Salmonella isolates of poultry origin serotyped as SH (54), SE (54), and ST (54) were submitted to the disk-diffusion test with disks containing 10 antibiotics of 7 different classes, routinely used in veterinary and human medicine such as: enrofloxacin, ciprofloxacin, norfloxacin, gentamicin, ceftiofur, ceftriaxone, nalidixic acid, tetracycline, sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim, and chloramphenicol. In addition, the Multi-drug Resistance Pattern (MDRP) and the Multiple-Drug Resistance Index (MDRI) were determined. The Chi-square (2 ) test with 1% of significance level was used to statistically evaluate the results. All isolates were [...](AU)

Salmonella Heidelberg isolated from poultry shows a novel resistance profile

Background: The development of antimicrobial resistance in bacteria is a serious public health issue worldwide. Salmonella spp. is considered a leader cause of gastrointestinal disease in animals and humans, and poultry products have been reported as an important reservoir of the bacterium. S. Heidelberg became lately one of the most prevalent serovars found in several countries. However, hardly any information is available about the epidemiology and the resistance profile of it. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine the antibiotic resistance profile of S. Heidelberg (SH) and to compare to S. Enteritidis (SE) and S. Typhimurium (ST) isolated from the Southern part of Brazil. Materials, Methods & Results: A total of 162 Salmonella isolates of poultry origin serotyped as SH (54), SE (54), and ST (54) were submitted to the disk-diffusion test with disks containing 10 antibiotics of 7 different classes, routinely used in veterinary and human medicine such as: enrofloxacin, ciprofloxacin, norfloxacin, gentamicin, ceftiofur, ceftriaxone, nalidixic acid, tetracycline, sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim, and chloramphenicol. In addition, the Multi-drug Resistance Pattern (MDRP) and the Multiple-Drug Resistance Index (MDRI) were determined. The Chi-square (2 ) test with 1% of significance level was used to statistically evaluate the results. All isolates were [...]

Influência da época do ano sobre a composição físico-química e microbiológica do leite na região Oeste de Santa Catarina / Season influence on milk physico-chemical and microbiological aspects in Western Santa Catarina

O objetivo do trabalho foi analisar as variações sazonais da qualidade do leite no oeste de Santa Catarina de acordo com as estações do ano. Utilizaram-se dados de 799 produtores de leite de uma cooperativa do Oeste Catarinense, considerando os teores de gordura, proteína, CCS (contagem de células somáticas) e CBT (contagem bacteriana total) de 9144 amostras de leite cru, coletadas diretamente dos tanques de resfriamento do produtor, durante os meses de outubro de 2009 a setembro de 2010. Os dados foram agrupados em quatro estações do ano (verão, outono, inverno e primavera). Para as quatro estações do ano, os dados também foram classificados segundo as instruções normativas IN 51 e IN 62 do Ministério da Agricultura, Pecuária e Abastecimento, como também de acordo com um sistema de remuneração ao produtor adotado por laticínios na região do estudo. Os resultados revelaram diferença entre os grupos (P 0.05), sendo que o teor de gordura foi maior no outono, a proteína e CBT foram maiores no inverno e CCS apresentou os maiores índices no verão. Conforme os critérios estabelecidos pela legislação, o principal problema observado foi associado a CBT, sendo que no inverno foram observadas as maiores contagens e, no verão, a maior porcentagem de amostras fora do padrão preconizado pela legislação. Com base na remuneração por qualidade, a composição centesimal resultou para a maioria dos produtores em bonificação no preço do leite pago ao produtor, e a CBT foi a principal responsável pela diminuição do preço final.(AU)

The objective of this study was to analyze the influence of seasonal changes on milk quality in Western Santa Catarina, Brazil. Dairy farms (799) had raw milk samples (9144) collected and analyzed for fat, protein, SCC (somatic cell count) and TBC (total bacterial count). Samples were collected from cooling tanks on the farm during the months of October 2009 to September 2010 and grouped into four seasons (summer, autumn, winter, and spring). The data were classified according to the normative instructions 51 and 62 the Ministerial of Agriculture, and also according to a quality pay system adopted by the dairy industry in the region of the study. The results revealed differences between groups (P 0.05), where fat content was higher in autumn, protein and TBC were higher in winter and SCC showed the highest rates in the summer. According to the criteria established by legislation, the main quality problem was the TBC, with higher counts in the winter, and in the summer we observed the highest percentage of non-compliant samples. For the quality payment system, chemical composition resulted on better prices to be paid to producers, while TBC was primarily responsible lower price.(AU)

Cost-benefit of anthelmintic protocols in naturally infected sheep

Background: Gastrointestinal nematode infections are a major problem for sheep production, leading to large economic losses as a result of the high costs for prevention and treatment. In helminthiasis, the most common clinical signs are weight loss, submandibular edema, diarrhea, and anemia. Among the many nematodes, stands out in the Brazilian states Haemonchus contortus and Trichostrongylus colubriformis, as well as these parasites have developed a number of anthelmintic resistance. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the cost-benefit of different antihelminthic protocols in naturally infected sheep.Material, Methods & Results: The study was conducted for one year in a sheep farm located in Southern Brazil. Three groups (A, B and C) with 10 adult sheep each were used. The group A was treated without drug rotation, and levamisole hydrochloride was used at intervals of 60 days. The group B was treated with levamisole hydrochloride at months 2, 4, 8 and 12 and albendazole at month 6 (antiparasitic treatment with pharmacological rotation). Animals from the group C were treated after selection by the Famacha method, which is based on the degree of anemia of their mucous ocular membranes. The results showed that the animals of the group C had lower values of eggs per gram of feces (EPG), and thus, they were treated more efficiently...(AU)

Cost-benefit of anthelmintic protocols in naturally infected sheep

Background: Gastrointestinal nematode infections are a major problem for sheep production, leading to large economic losses as a result of the high costs for prevention and treatment. In helminthiasis, the most common clinical signs are weight loss, submandibular edema, diarrhea, and anemia. Among the many nematodes, stands out in the Brazilian states Haemonchus contortus and Trichostrongylus colubriformis, as well as these parasites have developed a number of anthelmintic resistance. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the cost-benefit of different antihelminthic protocols in naturally infected sheep.Material, Methods & Results: The study was conducted for one year in a sheep farm located in Southern Brazil. Three groups (A, B and C) with 10 adult sheep each were used. The group A was treated without drug rotation, and levamisole hydrochloride was used at intervals of 60 days. The group B was treated with levamisole hydrochloride at months 2, 4, 8 and 12 and albendazole at month 6 (antiparasitic treatment with pharmacological rotation). Animals from the group C were treated after selection by the Famacha method, which is based on the degree of anemia of their mucous ocular membranes. The results showed that the animals of the group C had lower values of eggs per gram of feces (EPG), and thus, they were treated more efficiently...

Sources and levels of selenium on breast meat quality of broilers / Fontes e níveis de selênio sobre a qualidade da carne do peito de frangos de corte

Qualitative characteristics of breast meat of broilers fed diets supplemented with different concentrations (0; 0.3 and 0.5mg kg-1) of selenium in the form of selenomethionine and sodium selenite were analyzed. A total of 1050 one-day-old male Cobb broiler chicks were arranged factorially at random to five treatments (two concentrations x two sources + control diet without addition of selenium) with 7 replications of thirty birds each and received an isonitrogenous and isocaloric diets in all phases according to their ages (1-21, 22-35, and 36-42 days). At 42 days of age, TBARS (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances) after storage at 4ºC for one, seven and 15 days and also after 30 days under freezing temperatures (-15°C), color (CIELab), water holding capacity, cooking loss, shear force, pH and selenium concentration were determined in slaughtered birds breast meat. Results indicated that the use of selenomethionine provides less lightness and lower oxidation in chicken breast meat stored up to 15 days at 4°C. There was a positive effect of dietary different sources and levels of selenium on breast meat quality of broilers. It was observed a linear effect of dietary selenium levels on the amount of selenium deposited in the muscle, and the organic source (selenomethionine) is more effective than inorganic one (sodium selenite) for broiler meat conservation.(AU)

Analisaram-se características qualitativas da carne do peito de frangos de corte alimentados com rações suplementadas com diferentes concentrações (0; 0,3 e 0,5mg kg-1) de selênio nas formas de selenometionina e selenito de sódio. Foram utilizados 1050 pintainhos machos de um dia de idade da linhagem Cobb, que foram distribuídos em delineamento inteiramente casualizado em esquema fatorial em 5 tratamentos (duas concentrações x duas fontes + tratamento controle, sem adição de selênio) e sete repetições de trinta aves cada e receberam rações isoproteicas e isoenergéticas em todas as fases de criação (1 a 21, 22 a 35 e 36 a 42 dias). Aos 42 dias de idade, TBARS (substâncias reativas ao ácido tiobarbitúrico) após armazenamento a 4ºC por um, sete e 15 dias e 30 dias sob congelamento (15ºC), coloração (CIELab), capacidade de retenção de água, perdas de peso por cocção, força de cisalhamento, pH e concentração de selênio foram determinadas na carne do peito das aves abatidas. Os resultados indicaram que o uso da selenometionina ocasiona queda da oxidação da carne e luminosidade aos 15 dias de armazenamento a 4ºC. Existiu um efeito positivo da suplementação da ração com as diferentes fontes e concentrações de selênio sobre a qualidade da carne do peito das aves. Houve efeito linear dos níveis dietéticos de selênio na quantidade de selênio depositado no músculo, e a fonte orgânica (selenometionina) foi mais efetiva que a inorgânica (selenito de sódio) na conservação da carne de frango.(AU)

Antiparasitic resistance of different populations of ticks (Rhipicephalus microplus) in the Western of Santa Catarina state, Brazil / Resistência antiparasitária de diferentes populações de carrapatos(Rhipicephalus microplus) no oeste do estado de Santa Catarina, Brasil

Background: In Brazil, the tick Rhipicephalus microplus is a serious problem for beef and milk cattle due to the damagecaused directly to the animal. Ticks are responsible for major economic losses related to production, especially in breedsof European origin, prevalent in Southern Brazil. The use of most acaricides may allow the survival of some tick thattransmits this characteristic to future generations, consequently each successive treatment is a process of selection. Thelack of technical guidance on how to control ticks may contribute to the emergence of new resistant strains of ticks. Theobjective of this study was to test the effi cacy of antiparasitic drugs on tick populations (Rhipicephalus microplus) fromthe Western region of Santa Catarina, Brazil.Materials, Methods & Results: Thirty-one farms participated in this study and 70 engorged female ticks were collect fromeach property. They were divided into seven groups of 10 specimens each. Ticks were exposed to six commercial drugs:amitraz (A); cypermethrin, chlorpyrifos, and citronellal (B); diazinon (C); diclovós and chlorpyrifos (D); cypermethrin(E); cypermethrin, chlorpyrifos, and piperonyl butoxide (F); and one group was used as a control to validate the test (G:no drug). Tests with acaricides followed standard protocols, recommended for in vitro testing. The effectiveness of theproduct was calculated based on egg laying and hatching. The drug tested is considered effective if the result was morethan 95%. The number of farms with populations of resistant ticks were 13 (41.9% - group A), 2 (6.45% - group B), 15(48.38% - group C), 6 (19.35% - group D) and 12 (38.7% - group E). Ticks from the group F did not show resistance tothe tested products. i.e., all farms obtained 100% effi ciency. Among the products tested that showed the highest effi cacywere the combinations of three or two active principle as cypermethrin, chlorpyrifos and piperonyl butoxide (group F -...(AU)

Antiparasitic resistance of different populations of ticks (Rhipicephalus microplus) in the Western of Santa Catarina state, Brazil / Resistência antiparasitária de diferentes populações de carrapatos(Rhipicephalus microplus) no oeste do estado de Santa Catarina, Brasil

Background: In Brazil, the tick Rhipicephalus microplus is a serious problem for beef and milk cattle due to the damagecaused directly to the animal. Ticks are responsible for major economic losses related to production, especially in breedsof European origin, prevalent in Southern Brazil. The use of most acaricides may allow the survival of some tick thattransmits this characteristic to future generations, consequently each successive treatment is a process of selection. Thelack of technical guidance on how to control ticks may contribute to the emergence of new resistant strains of ticks. Theobjective of this study was to test the effi cacy of antiparasitic drugs on tick populations (Rhipicephalus microplus) fromthe Western region of Santa Catarina, Brazil.Materials, Methods & Results: Thirty-one farms participated in this study and 70 engorged female ticks were collect fromeach property. They were divided into seven groups of 10 specimens each. Ticks were exposed to six commercial drugs:amitraz (A); cypermethrin, chlorpyrifos, and citronellal (B); diazinon (C); diclovós and chlorpyrifos (D); cypermethrin(E); cypermethrin, chlorpyrifos, and piperonyl butoxide (F); and one group was used as a control to validate the test (G:no drug). Tests with acaricides followed standard protocols, recommended for in vitro testing. The effectiveness of theproduct was calculated based on egg laying and hatching. The drug tested is considered effective if the result was morethan 95%. The number of farms with populations of resistant ticks were 13 (41.9% - group A), 2 (6.45% - group B), 15(48.38% - group C), 6 (19.35% - group D) and 12 (38.7% - group E). Ticks from the group F did not show resistance tothe tested products. i.e., all farms obtained 100% effi ciency. Among the products tested that showed the highest effi cacywere the combinations of three or two active principle as cypermethrin, chlorpyrifos and piperonyl butoxide (group F -...

Efeito da vitamina E sobre o sistema imununológico de aves SPF vacinadas contra o vírus da bronquite infecciosa / Effect of vitamin E on the immune system of SPF birds vaccinated against infectious bronchitis virus

A fim de analisar a influência da vitamina E sobre a resposta imunológica de aves vacinadas e desafiadas com o Vírus da Bronquite Infecciosa das aves (VBI), e qual dose da vitamina E é melhor para essa resposta, foi realizado um e experimento utilizando 50 aves SPF alojadas com um dia de vida na Embrapa Suínos e Aves. As aves foram divididas em 10 grupos de cinco aves cada, incluindo grupo controle positivo e negativo, suplementadas com 15, 50 e 200 UI/Kg de vitamina E na ração. No décimo quarto dia de vida as aves foram vacinadas com a vacina comercial para Bronquite Infecciosa (H-120) e após 28 dias, um grupo por tratamento foi desafiado com VBI cepa clássica (M-41). Cinco dias após o desafio as aves foram necropsiadas e os macrófagos abdominais foram coletados para análise da atividade microbicida e dosagem de óxido nítrico (NO). O pulmão foi coletado para contagem de células através de citometria de fluxo e também dosagem de NO. Órgãos de eleição também foram coletados para análise histológica e realização do isolamento viral para analisar a eficiência vacinal. Os resultados foram avaliados pelo teste ANOVA e Student t-test. Um aumento da atividade microbicida dos macrófagos abdominais foi observado nas aves com maior suplementação de vitamina E (200 UI/ Kg) quando comparado com os grupos que não receberam ou receberam quantidades menores (0, 15, 50 UI/Kg), indicando uma melhora na resposta imune inata influenciada pela suplementação de vitamina E na dieta. A suplementação desta vitamina em altas dosagens também aumenta a capacidade dos macrófagos em produzir NO. E, através da citometria, sugere-se que os macrófagos são as principais células recrutadas no tecido pulmonar no combate a BI e esta ação foi potencializada pela adição da vitamina independente de dosagem.(AU)

In order to analyze the influence of vitamin E on the immune response of birds vaccinated and challenged with Infectious Bronchitis Virus in poultry (IBV), and which dose of vitamin E is the best to answer this, an experiment was conducted using 50 SPF birds housed with one day of life at Embrapa Suínos e Aves. All birds were divided into 10 groups of five birds each, including positive and negative control groups, supplemented with 15, 50, and 200 IU of vitamin E/Kg added into the feed. On the 14th day of life the birds were vaccinated with a commercial vaccine for infectious bronchitis (H-120) and after 28 days, one group for each treatment was challenged with IBV, strain classical (M-41). Five days after challenge birds were necropsied and abdominal macrophages were collected for analysis of microbicidal activity and measurement of nitric oxide (NO). The lung was collected for cell count by flow cytometry and also for NO dosage. Organs of predilection were also collected for histological analysis and virus isolation to analyze the efficiency of the vaccine. The results were evaluated by ANOVA and Student t-test. An increased of microbicidal activity of abdominal macrophages was observed in the groups of birds with higher levels of vitamin E (200 IU/Kg) supplementation when compared with groups that did not receive or received minor amounts (0, 15, 50 IU/Kg), indicating an improvement in the innate immune response influenced by vitamin E supplementation in the diet. The supplementation of this vitamin in high doses also increases the ability of macrophages to produce NO. And, by flow cytometry, suggests that the macrophages are the primary cells recruited in the lung tissue to combat infectious bronchitis and this action was potentiated by the addition of vitamin E, independent of the dosage.(AU)

Parasitological and molecular detection of cryptosporidium parvum in rheas (Rhea americana)

Background: The rhea (Rhea americana) is a Brazilian wild bird that produce meat, leather and feathers of excellent quality. Rhea production has been increasing every day in Brazil due to many favorable conditions for breeding and there are also large native populations in various regions of the country. The incidence of parasites is a limiting factor when raising many animals, and rheas are not an exception. The occurrence of Cryptosporidium spp in captive rheas in a Brazilian zoo and Spain was described. However, little is known about cryptosporidiosis in rhea, which makes the need for further studies. Thus, this study aimed to detect Cryptosporidium parvum in rheas from the South of Brazil. Case: This study evaluated two properties located in Southern Brazil. Property A was located in Rio Rufi no, Santa Catarina State, Brazil and it had 40 rheas for commercial purposes. Property B was located in Santa Maria, a small town in Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil and it had 10 rheas. Fresh fecal samples were collected and kept refrigerated from adult birds (n = 4) and chicks (n = 2) from property A, and chicks (n = 3) of three months of age from property B. Samples were analyzed by the method of direct examination, followed by centrifugal flotation with zinc sulfate. Only the centrifugal flotation technique allowed the observation of Cryptosporidium spp. oocysts in three adults and one chick. Fecal samples were stored in ethanol and analyzed by PCR for C. parvum, all being positive for this protozoan. Feces contaminated by C. parvum oocysts from one young rhea was used to inoculate two mice orally (BALB/c), previously confirmed protozoan free by faecal examination and PCR. Feces from inoculated mice were collected on days 1, 3 e 5 post-inoculation for analysis by the centrifugal flotation technique. After five days of inoculation all mice presented diarrhea and high numbers of oocysts of protozoan in their feces. Discussion: Cryptosporidiosis can evolve into severe diarrhea, followed by abdominal cramps, anorexia, vomiting, dehydration, nausea and fever in different animals. However the incubation period of this disease in rheas is unknown because this is only the third report of cryptosporidiosis in this wild bird. The Cryptosporidium spp. is an obligate parasite of vertebrates, and its colonization occurs at the periphery of the intestinal cells of the host and it may cause atrophy of these structures and enteritis, but these findings have not been described in rheas yet. The species of Cryptosporidium that are mainly reported in birds are Cryptosporidium meleagridis, Cryptosporidium baileyi and Cryptosporidium galli. In our study, the molecular analysis was performed in order to identify the protozoan, being detected the C. parvum, a zoonotic agent reported in several mammals. The rhea is wild birds with habits similar to ostriches. Already, in studies have reported the occurrence of Cryptosporidium in ostriches; however the species identified were different from that described in this study. Based on these results, we conclude that rhea may be parasitized by C. parvum, an important zoonotic parasite. Prevalence studies should be conducted in this area to estimate the role and impact of rhea as reservoirs and disseminators of this zoonotic parasite.

Occurrence of antibodies to Toxoplasma gondii in rheas (Rhea americana) and ostriches (Struthio camelus) from farms of different Brazilian regions / Ocorrência de anticorpos Toxoplasma gondii em emas (Rhea americana) e avestruzes (Struthio camelus) de propriedades de diferentes regiões brasileiras

This study aimed to verify the occurrence of antibodies against Toxoplasma gondii in rheas (Rhea americana) and ostriches (Struthio camelus) commercially breeding in Brazil. Blood samples from 20 rheas and 46 ostriches (young and adults) were serologically tested using a technique known as modified agglutination test (MAT) at an initial titration of 1:16 for ostriches and 1:25 for rheas. Antibodies against T. gondii were found in 50% (10/20) of the rheas, with titers ranging from 1:25 to 1:6,400. The incidence of antibodies against T. gondii in ostriches was 17.4% (8/46) with titers ranging from 1:16 to 1:256. Birds showing titers higher than 1:200 for T. gondii were mainly the young ones. Therefore, rheas and ostriches may be parasitized by T. gondii, showing high levels of antibodies against this parasite.

Este estudo teve como objetivo verificar a presença de anticorpos contra o Toxoplasma gondii em emas (Rhea americana) e avestruzes (Struthio camelus) criados comercialmente no Brasil. Amostras de sangue de 20 emas e 46 avestruzes (jovens e adultos) foram testadas sorologicamente pela técnica conhecida como teste de aglutinação modificada (MAT) em titulações iniciais de 1:16 para avestruzes e 1:25 para emas. Anticorpos contra T. gondii foram encontrados em 50% (10/20) das emas com títulos variando de 1:25 a 1:6.400. A incidência de anticorpos contra T. gondii em avestruzes foi de 17,4% (8/46) com os títulos oscilando entre 1:16 e 1:256. Aves jovens foram aquelas que apresentaram títulos superiores a 1:200 para T. gondii. Portanto, emas e avestruzes podem ser parasitados por T. gondii, apresentando elevados níveis de anticorpos contra o parasita.