Maternal and fetal ultrasonography, vulvar temperature and vaginal mucous impedance for the prediction of parturition in Saanen does

The aim of this study was to evaluate and correlate modifications of vaginal mucous impedance, vulvar temperature and ultrasonographic measurements (echobiometric parameters) to parturition in pregnant Saanen does. 30 does were selected for the study and submitted to an estrus synchronization protocol and natural mating. The females were evaluated daily from Day 143 of pregnancy to parturition. For the sonographic evaluations, the following structures were measured: biparietal diameter, thoracic diameter, abdominal diameter, ocular orbit, kidney length, kidney height, cardiac area, placentome length, cervical measurement and fetal heart rate; by means of two different approaches: transrectal and transabdominal, using a 7.5 MHz linear transducer. The vaginal mucous impedance was assessed using an electric estrous detector and vulvar temperature was measured using a non-contact infrared thermometer. Statistical analysis was performed using the R-project software and the significance level was set at 5% for all tests. 25 Saanen does became pregnant, resulting in 80.33% pregnancy rate. Fetal heart rate was negatively correlated to the hours to parturition (p<0,001; r-Pearson= -0,451), as well as vaginal temperature (p= 0,001; r-Pearson= -0,275), while cervical thickness was positively correlated to hours to parturition (p<0,001; r-Pearson= 0,490). The echobiometric parameters (biparietal diameter, thoracic diameter, abdominal diameter, ocular orbit, kidney length and height, cardiac area, placentome length), as well as vaginal mucous impedance did not vary throughout the timepoints of evaluation and did not correlate to the moment of parturition. It was concluded that the parameters of fetal heartbeat, vaginal temperature and cervical effacement in the last week of pregnancy provide valuable information regarding the proximity of parturition.(AU)

Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP) in goat milk in the semiarid region of the Brazilian Northeast - molecular characterization

Background: Goat farming has been on the rise in Brazil in recent years. Overall, 93% of the national herd is concentrated in the Northeast, with the state of Paraíba being the largest goat milk producer in the country. Considering Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP) as a sanitary issue for the development of animal farming with risks for human health and that is a notifiable disease, this research was structured with the objective of confirming the presence and performing a molecular characterization of MAP in goat milk destined for processing plants in the semiarid region of the Brazilian Northeast. Materials, Methods & Results: Samples from 179 production units and 5 collective bulk tanks and 4 samples of pasteurized goat milk were analyzed through Real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Genetic material (DNA) for MAP was found in the goat milk sample from 1 production unit (1/179). From this positive sample, 9 lactating goats were identified in the original property, 7 of which showed MAP DNA in milk samples (77.77%). The characterization of the nucleotide sequence detected in the positive sample has 99% identity with KJ173784. Discussion: One sample (1/179), from the production units, had MAP genetic material (DNA) detected using the molecular test. Samples from these production units represent the milk from all lactating goats from each producer. Therefore, it was possible to identify from which farm the samples originated, allowing individual animals to then be tested, with milk samples collected from 9 goats and MAP DNA detected in 7 of them (77.77%) via PCR. Control and/or prevention programs need this type of surveillance in reason that it allows the tracking of possible foci from milk samples collected from dairy products or cooling stations. The use of PCR to detect MAP foci via goat milk is thus advantageous because samples are obtained in a non-invasive manner, with faster results when compared to the culture technique. The low detection via PCR in goat milk may be related to factors such as the small amount of MAP eliminated and the intermittent excretion in asymptomatic animals, as also false-positive samples. Samples from the collective bulk tanks was negative. It is possible that the combination of milk from all the properties diluted the amount of MAP. This suggests that the sensitivity of the PCR can be improved if the samples are obtained from the pooled milk from the same property. In some regions of Brazil, for example, showed the frequency of Zona da Mata region of the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, found 1.94% of positive samples (9/464) and 9.76% (4/41) of properties with at least 1 positive sample for MAP. Different results to what were found in the semiarid region of Paraíba, where climate and production characteristics are different. Goats are susceptible to 3 strains: type "S" (Sheep), "Bison type" and type "C" (Cattle). Previous contact with this species may explain the similarity between the strain found in goat milk and those detected from bovine samples. This must also be taken into consideration during diagnosis and upon implementation of control measures for paratuberculosis in goats. Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis was recorded for the first time in goat milk in the semiarid region, which may reveal a potential biological risk to humans and suggests the need for active surveillance of the agent.

Performance, carcass traits, and meat fatty acid profile and quality of Anglo-Nubian kids fed diets supplemented with vegetable oils

The objective of this study was to evaluate the inclusion of vegetable oils in goat kid diets on performance, carcass traits, and meat composition, quality, and fatty acid profile. Forty-eight Anglo Nubian kids were evaluated in a completely randomized experimental design with four treatments, namely, control diet and diets including 2.5% canola, sunflower, or soybean oils. The animals were slaughtered at 30 kg live weight and performance, carcass and meat quality, centesimal composition, and fatty acid profile were evaluated. The treatments did not influence carcass yield or meat color. Among the saturated fatty acids, only caprylic, palmitic, and heptadecanoic acids differed among the treatments, whereas total saturated fatty acids decreased in the sunflower oil treatment. Monounsaturated fatty acids were not influenced by lipid supplementation. Among the polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), linoleic acid was highest in the sunflower oil-treated group. Total PUFA were higher for the soybean oil-supplemented group, but similar to that achieved with sunflower oil. The highest omega-6 content was obtained with dietary inclusion of sunflower oil, whereas conjugated linoleic acid, atherogenicity index, and hypocholesterolemic:hypocholesterolemic ratio improved with the inclusion of sunflower and soybean oils. Supplementation with vegetable oils improves the fatty acid profile of kid meat without affecting animal performance. Better results are obtained with sunflower and soybean oils; therefore, it is up to the producer to choose the diet according to its cost.

Variation of sexual behavior of photo-stimulated bucks during the transition from winter to spring in the semi-arid climate of Mexico

Sheep and goat production takes place under unsuitable climate conditions, where animals are more susceptible to high temperatures. The objectives of this study were to determine, i) whether sexual behavior of photo-stimulated bucks varies through 24 h/day in March and April and, ii) whether the environmental temperature and the relative humidity affect their expression. Six bucks were submitted to artificial long days (16 h light and 8 h darkness per day/2.5 months). Bucks were exposed to ovariectomized females once a week during the non-breeding period and sexual behavior was recorded for 15 min at 2 h intervals along 24 h/day. The environmental temperature, relative humidity, temperature-humidity index (THI), and body temperature were recorded in each behavior test. Plasma testosterone, sexual behavior, environmental temperature, relative humidity, and body temperature were analyzed using Generalized Estimation Equations. Plasma testosterone showed a significant difference over the experimental period (P < 0.001). The highest frequency of nudging and anogenital sniffing was at 08:00 h (P < 0.001); flehmen and penis unsheathed were variable (P < 0.001). The highest environmental temperature and the lowest relative humidity were registered from 14:00 to 18:00 h (P < 0.001). The highest body temperature was at 18:00 h and the lowest was at 06:00 h (P < 0.001). The highest THI >77 was recorded at 16:00 h. In conclusion, photo-stimulated bucks showed a variation of sexual behavior through 24 h/day exposed to ovariectomized females, and these sexual activities were affected by the high environmental temperature and the low relative humidity throughout the study.(AU)

Previous sexual experience does not improve estrous behavior and ovulatory activity in seasonally anestrous goats in contact with photostimulated bucks

Sexually inexperienced ewes display lower estrous behavior during the first contact with rams. The objective of this study was to determine whether sexually inexperienced anestrous females display estrous behavior and ovulatory activity as the sexually experienced females, and with restricted sexual experience exposed to photo-stimulated bucks. Six bucks were rendered sexually active during the non-breeding season by exposure to artificially long days (16 h of light and 8 h of darkness per day) for 2.5 months. The first group, sexually experienced females (n = 10) had physical contact with two vasectomized bucks, and mating was allowed; the second group, with restricted sexual experience (n = 10) had contact with two vasectomized bucks through a wire-mesh fence and mating was prevented; the third group, sexually inexperienced females (n = 9) was totally isolated from bucks. At 14-month-old the females were exposed to photostimulated bucks for 15 days. The proportion of females that displayed estrous behavior, ovulations, short and normal ovulatory cycles, and pregnancy rates did not differ between sexually experienced, with restricted sexual experience, and sexually inexperienced (P > 0.05, in all variables). Similarly, the ovulation rate did not differ between the three groups of females (P > 0.05). However, the interval from introduction of the bucks to the first estrus was shorter in sexually inexperienced females (P < 0.05). Therefore, sexually inexperienced anestrous females displayed estrous behavior, ovulation, and pregnancy rate similar to those displayed by sexually experienced and with restricted sexual experience when exposed to photo-stimulated bucks through the male effect.(AU)

Variation of sexual behavior of photo-stimulated bucks during the transition from winter to spring in the semi-arid climate of Mexico

Sheep and goat production takes place under unsuitable climate conditions, where animals are more susceptible to high temperatures. The objectives of this study were to determine, i) whether sexual behavior of photo-stimulated bucks varies through 24 h/day in March and April and, ii) whether the environmental temperature and the relative humidity affect their expression. Six bucks were submitted to artificial long days (16 h light and 8 h darkness per day/2.5 months). Bucks were exposed to ovariectomized females once a week during the non-breeding period and sexual behavior was recorded for 15 min at 2 h intervals along 24 h/day. The environmental temperature, relative humidity, temperature-humidity index (THI), and body temperature were recorded in each behavior test. Plasma testosterone, sexual behavior, environmental temperature, relative humidity, and body temperature were analyzed using Generalized Estimation Equations. Plasma testosterone showed a significant difference over the experimental period (P < 0.001). The highest frequency of nudging and anogenital sniffing was at 08:00 h (P < 0.001); flehmen and penis unsheathed were variable (P < 0.001). The highest environmental temperature and the lowest relative humidity were registered from 14:00 to 18:00 h (P < 0.001). The highest body temperature was at 18:00 h and the lowest was at 06:00 h (P < 0.001). The highest THI >77 was recorded at 16:00 h. In conclusion, photo-stimulated bucks showed a variation of sexual behavior through 24 h/day exposed to ovariectomized females, and these sexual activities were affected by the high environmental temperature and the low relative humidity throughout the study.(AU)

Variation of sexual behavior of photo-stimulated bucks during the transition from winter to spring in the semi-arid climate of Mexico

Sheep and goat production takes place under unsuitable climate conditions, where animals are more susceptible to high temperatures. The objectives of this study were to determine, i) whether sexual behavior of photo-stimulated bucks varies through 24 h/day in March and April and, ii) whether the environmental temperature and the relative humidity affect their expression. Six bucks were submitted to artificial long days (16 h light and 8 h darkness per day/2.5 months). Bucks were exposed to ovariectomized females once a week during the non-breeding period and sexual behavior was recorded for 15 min at 2 h intervals along 24 h/day. The environmental temperature, relative humidity, temperature-humidity index (THI), and body temperature were recorded in each behavior test. Plasma testosterone, sexual behavior, environmental temperature, relative humidity, and body temperature were analyzed using Generalized Estimation Equations. Plasma testosterone showed a significant difference over the experimental period (P 77 was recorded at 16:00 h. In conclusion, photo-stimulated bucks showed a variation of sexual behavior through 24 h/day exposed to ovariectomized females, and these sexual activities were affected by the high environmental temperature and the low relative humidity throughout the study.

Previous sexual experience does not improve estrous behavior and ovulatory activity in seasonally anestrous goats in contact with photostimulated bucks

Sexually inexperienced ewes display lower estrous behavior during the first contact with rams. The objective of this study was to determine whether sexually inexperienced anestrous females display estrous behavior and ovulatory activity as the sexually experienced females, and with restricted sexual experience exposed to photo-stimulated bucks. Six bucks were rendered sexually active during the non-breeding season by exposure to artificially long days (16 h of light and 8 h of darkness per day) for 2.5 months. The first group, sexually experienced females (n = 10) had physical contact with two vasectomized bucks, and mating was allowed; the second group, with restricted sexual experience (n = 10) had contact with two vasectomized bucks through a wire-mesh fence and mating was prevented; the third group, sexually inexperienced females (n = 9) was totally isolated from bucks. At 14-month-old the females were exposed to photostimulated bucks for 15 days. The proportion of females that displayed estrous behavior, ovulations, short and normal ovulatory cycles, and pregnancy rates did not differ between sexually experienced, with restricted sexual experience, and sexually inexperienced (P > 0.05, in all variables). Similarly, the ovulation rate did not differ between the three groups of females (P > 0.05). However, the interval from introduction of the bucks to the first estrus was shorter in sexually inexperienced females (P < 0.05). Therefore, sexually inexperienced anestrous females displayed estrous behavior, ovulation, and pregnancy rate similar to those displayed by sexually experienced and with restricted sexual experience when exposed to photo-stimulated bucks through the male effect.

Iatrogenic alkalosis in goats with the use of intravenous electrolyte solution containing 84 mEq/L of lactate / Alcalose iatrogênica em cabras após infusão intravenosa de solução eletrolítica contendo 84 mEq/L de lactato

This study investigated the alkalinizing potential of an intravenous polyionic solution containing 84 mEq/L of lactate on hydroelectrolyte and acid-base balances in healthy goats.Four solutions, containing 28 and 84 mEq/L of lactate (L28 and L84) or bicarbonate (B28 and B84), were formulated. Six healthy Saanen goats were used. All four solutions were infused intravenously in each animal, one at a time, with an interval of 4–5 days between the infusions, at a speed of 33.3 mL/kg/h and totaling a volume equivalent to 10% of their body weight, in 3 h of continuous administration. Samples of venous blood and urine were collected at 0h (start of the infusion), 1.5h (middle of the infusion), 3h (end of the infusion), and 4.5h, 6h, and 24 h from the start of the infusion. The laboratory tests included determination of blood pH, pCO2, HCO3-, base excess (BE), Na+, K+, Cl-, total plasmatic protein, L-lactate, and creatinine. In urine samples, pH, Na+, K+, Cl-, L-lactate, and creatinine were measured. The L28 solution, equivalent to lactated Ringer's solution, caused a slight increase in the alkaline reserve and did not change the electrolyte balance. The L84 solution resulted in a greater increase in the alkaline reserve, equivalent to the B84 solution, with return to baseline values within 24 h from the start of the infusion.The L84 solution proved to be safe and produced iatrogenic alkalization when infused into healthy goats, without causing side effects.

O objetivo deste trabalho foi investigar o potencial alcalinizante de uma solução poli-iônica intravenosa contendo 84mEq/L de lactato no equilíbrio hidroeletrolítico e ácido base de cabras saudáveis. Quatro soluções contendo 28 e 84 mEq/L de lactato (L28 e L84) ou bicarbonato (B28 e B84) foram formuladas. Seis cabras, adultas, da raça Saanen, saudáveis receberam as quatro soluções por via intravenosa, uma de cada vez, com intervalo de quatro a cinco dias entre as infusões, a velocidade de 33,3 ml/kg/h, totalizando um volume equivalente a 10% do seu peso corporal, em três horas de administração contínua. Foram coletadas amostras de sangue venoso e urina antes do início da infusão (0h), na metade (1,5h), no fim (3h) e às 4,5h, 6h e 24h após o início da infusão. Os exames laboratoriais consistiram na determinação do pH sanguíneo, pCO2, HCO3-, BE, Na+, K+, Cl-, proteína plasmática total, lactato L e creatinina. Nas amostras de urina foram medidos o pH, Na+, K+, Cl-, lactato L e creatinina. A solução L28, equivalente à solução de Ringer com lactato, causou um aumento leve na reserva alcalina e não alterou o equilíbrio eletrolítico. A solução L84 resultou em maior aumento da reserva alcalina, equivalente à solução B84, com retorno dos parâmetros avaliados aos valores basais em até 24 horas após o início da infusão. A solução L84 provou-se segura e produziu alcalose iatrogência em cabras sadias, sem causar qualquer efeito colateral.

Iatrogenic alkalosis in goats with the use of intravenous electrolyte solution containing 84 mEq/L of lactate / Alcalose iatrogênica em cabras após infusão intravenosa de solução eletrolítica contendo 84 mEq/L de lactato

This study investigated the alkalinizing potential of an intravenous polyionic solution containing 84 mEq/L of lactate on hydroelectrolyte and acid-base balances in healthy goats.Four solutions, containing 28 and 84 mEq/L of lactate (L28 and L84) or bicarbonate (B28 and B84), were formulated. Six healthy Saanen goats were used. All four solutions were infused intravenously in each animal, one at a time, with an interval of 4–5 days between the infusions, at a speed of 33.3 mL/kg/h and totaling a volume equivalent to 10% of their body weight, in 3 h of continuous administration. Samples of venous blood and urine were collected at 0h (start of the infusion), 1.5h (middle of the infusion), 3h (end of the infusion), and 4.5h, 6h, and 24 h from the start of the infusion. The laboratory tests included determination of blood pH, pCO2, HCO3-, base excess (BE), Na+, K+, Cl-, total plasmatic protein, L-lactate, and creatinine. In urine samples, pH, Na+, K+, Cl-, L-lactate, and creatinine were measured. The L28 solution, equivalent to lactated Ringer's solution, caused a slight increase in the alkaline reserve and did not change the electrolyte balance. The L84 solution resulted in a greater increase in the alkaline reserve, equivalent to the B84 solution, with return to baseline values within 24 h from the start of the infusion.The L84 solution proved to be safe and produced iatrogenic alkalization when infused into healthy goats, without causing side effects.(AU)

O objetivo deste trabalho foi investigar o potencial alcalinizante de uma solução poli-iônica intravenosa contendo 84mEq/L de lactato no equilíbrio hidroeletrolítico e ácido base de cabras saudáveis. Quatro soluções contendo 28 e 84 mEq/L de lactato (L28 e L84) ou bicarbonato (B28 e B84) foram formuladas. Seis cabras, adultas, da raça Saanen, saudáveis receberam as quatro soluções por via intravenosa, uma de cada vez, com intervalo de quatro a cinco dias entre as infusões, a velocidade de 33,3 ml/kg/h, totalizando um volume equivalente a 10% do seu peso corporal, em três horas de administração contínua. Foram coletadas amostras de sangue venoso e urina antes do início da infusão (0h), na metade (1,5h), no fim (3h) e às 4,5h, 6h e 24h após o início da infusão. Os exames laboratoriais consistiram na determinação do pH sanguíneo, pCO2, HCO3-, BE, Na+, K+, Cl-, proteína plasmática total, lactato L e creatinina. Nas amostras de urina foram medidos o pH, Na+, K+, Cl-, lactato L e creatinina. A solução L28, equivalente à solução de Ringer com lactato, causou um aumento leve na reserva alcalina e não alterou o equilíbrio eletrolítico. A solução L84 resultou em maior aumento da reserva alcalina, equivalente à solução B84, com retorno dos parâmetros avaliados aos valores basais em até 24 horas após o início da infusão. A solução L84 provou-se segura e produziu alcalose iatrogência em cabras sadias, sem causar qualquer efeito colateral.(AU)

Serological survey of leptospirosis, brucellosis, and lentivirus in herds of small ruminants in Recôncavo Baiano, Bahia, Brazil / Inquérito sorológico de leptospirose, brucelose e lentiviroses em rebanhos de pequenos ruminantes no Recôncavo Baiano, Bahia, Brasil

A serological survey was carried out to assess the frequency of leptospirosis, small ruminants lentivirus (SRLV), and brucellosis in small ruminant herds in the Recôncavo Baiano, State of Bahia, Brazil, from February to December 2017. In four goat herds, 125 animals were tested for SRLV and leptospirosis, while in five sheep herds, 378 animals were tested for leptospirosis, brucellosis, and SRLV. Regarding leptospirosis, MAT detected 80% of goats and 15.34% of sheep seroreactive. Reactivity was most frequent to serogroups Autumnalis and Grippotyphosa in goats and sheep, respectively. Regarding SRLV, 8.8% of goats and 0.79% of sheep were reactive. Search for anti-B. ovis antibodies revealed 0.52% reactivity. In sheep, three animals showed simultaneous seroreactivity for SRLV and leptospirosis, while one animal had a serological response for brucellosis and leptospirosis. In goats, simultaneous seroreactivity for SRLV and leptospirosis was observed in only one animal. Leptospirosis was the most frequent of the three infectious diseases in investigated herds.(AU)

Foi realizado um inquérito sorológico para avaliar a frequência de ocorrência de leptospirose, lentiviroses de pequenos ruminantes (LVPR) e brucelose em rebanhos de pequenos ruminantes no Recôncavo Baiano, estado da Bahia, Brasil, no período de fevereiro a dezembro de 2017. Em quatro rebanhos de caprinos, foram testados 125 animais para LVPR e leptospirose, enquanto em cinco rebanhos de ovinos, foram testados 378 animais para leptospirose, brucelose e LVPR. Em relação à leptospirose, 80% das cabras e 15,34% das ovelhas foram sororreativas. Os sorogrupos de Leptospira spp. predominantes foram Autumnalis e Grippotyphosa para caprinos e ovinos, respectivamente. Em relação as LVPR, 8,8% dos caprinos e 0,79% dos ovinos foram reativos. Adicionalmente, a pesquisa de anticorpos Anti-B. ovis revelou 0,52% de ovinos reativos. Em ovinos, três animais apresentaram sororreatividade simultânea para LVPR e leptospirose, enquanto um animal teve resposta sorológica para brucelose e leptospirose. Em caprinos, sororreatividade simultânea para LVPR e leptospirose foi observada em apenas um animal. A leptospirose foi a doença infecciosa mais frequente nos rebanhos investigados.(AU)

Serological survey of leptospirosis, brucellosis, and lentivirus in herds of small ruminants in Recôncavo Baiano, Bahia, Brazil / Inquérito sorológico de leptospirose, brucelose e lentiviroses em rebanhos de pequenos ruminantes no Recôncavo Baiano, Bahia, Brasil

A serological survey was carried out to assess the frequency of leptospirosis, small ruminants lentivirus (SRLV), and brucellosis in small ruminant herds in the Recôncavo Baiano, State of Bahia, Brazil, from February to December 2017. In four goat herds, 125 animals were tested for SRLV and leptospirosis, while in five sheep herds, 378 animals were tested for leptospirosis, brucellosis, and SRLV. Regarding leptospirosis, MAT detected 80% of goats and 15.34% of sheep seroreactive. Reactivity was most frequent to serogroups Autumnalis and Grippotyphosa in goats and sheep, respectively. Regarding SRLV, 8.8% of goats and 0.79% of sheep were reactive. Search for anti-B. ovis antibodies revealed 0.52% reactivity. In sheep, three animals showed simultaneous seroreactivity for SRLV and leptospirosis, while one animal had a serological response for brucellosis and leptospirosis. In goats, simultaneous seroreactivity for SRLV and leptospirosis was observed in only one animal. Leptospirosis was the most frequent of the three infectious diseases in investigated herds.(AU)

Foi realizado um inquérito sorológico para avaliar a frequência de ocorrência de leptospirose, lentiviroses de pequenos ruminantes (LVPR) e brucelose em rebanhos de pequenos ruminantes no Recôncavo Baiano, estado da Bahia, Brasil, no período de fevereiro a dezembro de 2017. Em quatro rebanhos de caprinos, foram testados 125 animais para LVPR e leptospirose, enquanto em cinco rebanhos de ovinos, foram testados 378 animais para leptospirose, brucelose e LVPR. Em relação à leptospirose, 80% das cabras e 15,34% das ovelhas foram sororreativas. Os sorogrupos de Leptospira spp. predominantes foram Autumnalis e Grippotyphosa para caprinos e ovinos, respectivamente. Em relação as LVPR, 8,8% dos caprinos e 0,79% dos ovinos foram reativos. Adicionalmente, a pesquisa de anticorpos Anti-B. ovis revelou 0,52% de ovinos reativos. Em ovinos, três animais apresentaram sororreatividade simultânea para LVPR e leptospirose, enquanto um animal teve resposta sorológica para brucelose e leptospirose. Em caprinos, sororreatividade simultânea para LVPR e leptospirose foi observada em apenas um animal. A leptospirose foi a doença infecciosa mais frequente nos rebanhos investigados.(AU)

Ocular and oral lesions caused by Tacinga inamoena in sheep and goats in Northeast Brazil

ABSTRACT: Two outbreaks of traumatic injuries in goats and sheep associated with grazing and ingestion of the cactus Tacinga inamoena have recently been reported in the state of Paraíba, Brazil. In the first of these, which was detected in 2019 during a preliminary inspection of a herd of 70 animals, it was found that 15 showed certain ocular complications, and these animals were subjected to general physical and ophthalmic examinations. The clinical findings included excessive lacrimation, blepharitis, photophobia, corneal opacity, hyphema, corneal neovascularization, corneal ulcers, and adherence of gloquids to the bulbar conjunctiva and cornea. Large amounts of T. inamoena were found to be present in several areas in which these animals had been grazed and had been observed consuming the fruits of this plant. In the second outbreak during the following year, two sheep from a total of 100 animals were identified as having oral lesions associated with grazing in areas within which T. inamoena was growing. One of these animals was referred to a veterinary hospital, and on physical examination was found to show apathy, anorexia, a body score of 1.5, and the presence of gloquids within the fur. With respect to the oral cavity, halitosis, severe sialorrhea, extensive hemorrhagic ulcers, and painful tenderness on palpation were detected. Given the unfavorable prognosis, the sheep was subsequently euthanized. At necropsy, multifocal to coalescent plaques were detected on the upper and lower lips, oral mucosa, tongue, and hard and soft palates. These were generally elevated and firm and characterized by an irregular, ulcerated surface, sometimes crusty, with a yellow to light brown center and erythematous edges. The findings of this study highlight that the consumption of T. inamoena can cause serious oral and ophthalmic lesions in small ruminants in the northeastern semi-arid regions of Brazil, and can potentially contribute to substantial large economic losses. This problem tends to be exacerbated by the invasive behavior of T. Inamoena, particularly in areas in the process of environmental degradation.

RESUMO: Relatam-se dois surtos de lesões traumáticas associadas ao pastejo e ingestão da Tacinga inamoena por caprinos e ovinos no estado da Paraíba, Brasil. No primeiro surto observou-se durante uma inspeção preliminar do rebanho que 15 dos 70 animais apresentavam alterações oculares, os animais foram submetidos ao exame físico geral e ao exame oftálmico. Lacrimejamento excessivo, blefarite, fotofobia, opacidade de córnea, hifema, neovascularização corneana, úlceras de córnea e gloquídeos aderidos à conjuntiva bulbar e córnea foram os achados clínicos identificados. A planta estava presente em diversas áreas e em grande quantidade nas áreas de pastejo, onde os animais eram vistos ingerindo seus frutos. No segundo surto, dois ovinos de um total de 100 animais, foram identificados com lesões orais associadas ao pastejo em áreas da planta. Um deles foi encaminhado ao Hospital Veterinário. No exame físico, o animal apresentou apatia, anorexia, escore corporal 1,5, pelos opacos, eriçados e no pelame era possível identificar gloquídeos. Na cavidade oral observou-se halitose, sialorreia intensa, extensas úlceras hemorrágicas e sensibilidade dolorosa à palpação. Devido ao prognóstico desfavorável o animal foi eutanasiado. Na necropsia, placas multifocais a coalescentes, elevadas, firmes e com superfície irregular, ulcerada, por vezes crostosas, com centro amarelo a marrom-claro e bordos eritematosos, estavam presentes nos lábios superiores, inferiores, mucosa oral, língua, palatos duro e mole. T. inamoena causa sérias lesões orais e oftálmicas em pequenos ruminantes no semiárido nordestino e prejuízos econômicos de grandes dimensões, que podem ser agravados pelo comportamento invasor da T. inamoena em áreas com indícios de degradação ambiental.

Ocular and oral lesions caused by Tacinga inamoena in sheep and goats in Northeast Brazil / Lesões oculares e orais causadas por Tacinga inamoena em ovinos e caprinos no Nordeste brasileiro

Two outbreaks of traumatic injuries in goats and sheep associated with grazing and ingestion of the cactus Tacinga inamoena have recently been reported in the state of Paraíba, Brazil. In the first of these, which was detected in 2019 during a preliminary inspection of a herd of 70 animals, it was found that 15 showed certain ocular complications, and these animals were subjected to general physical and ophthalmic examinations. The clinical findings included excessive lacrimation, blepharitis, photophobia, corneal opacity, hyphema, corneal neovascularization, corneal ulcers, and adherence of gloquids to the bulbar conjunctiva and cornea. Large amounts of T. inamoena were found to be present in several areas in which these animals had been grazed and had been observed consuming the fruits of this plant. In the second outbreak during the following year, two sheep from a total of 100 animals were identified as having oral lesions associated with grazing in areas within which T. inamoena was growing. One of these animals was referred to a veterinary hospital, and on physical examination was found to show apathy, anorexia, a body score of 1.5, and the presence of gloquids within the fur. With respect to the oral cavity, halitosis, severe sialorrhea, extensive hemorrhagic ulcers, and painful tenderness on palpation were detected. Given the unfavorable prognosis, the sheep was subsequently euthanized. At necropsy, multifocal to coalescent plaques were detected on the upper and lower lips, oral mucosa, tongue, and hard and soft palates. These were generally elevated and firm and characterized by an irregular, ulcerated surface, sometimes crusty, with a yellow to light brown center and erythematous edges. The findings of this study highlight that the consumption of T. inamoena can cause serious oral and ophthalmic lesions in small ruminants in the northeastern semi-arid regions of Brazil, and can potentially contribute to substantial large economic losses. This problem tends to be exacerbated by the invasive behavior of T. Inamoena, particularly in areas in the process of environmental degradation.(AU)

Relatam-se dois surtos de lesões traumáticas associadas ao pastejo e ingestão da Tacinga inamoena por caprinos e ovinos no estado da Paraíba, Brasil. No primeiro surto observou-se durante uma inspeção preliminar do rebanho que 15 dos 70 animais apresentavam alterações oculares, os animais foram submetidos ao exame físico geral e ao exame oftálmico. Lacrimejamento excessivo, blefarite, fotofobia, opacidade de córnea, hifema, neovascularização corneana, úlceras de córnea e gloquídeos aderidos à conjuntiva bulbar e córnea foram os achados clínicos identificados. A planta estava presente em diversas áreas e em grande quantidade nas áreas de pastejo, onde os animais eram vistos ingerindo seus frutos. No segundo surto, dois ovinos de um total de 100 animais, foram identificados com lesões orais associadas ao pastejo em áreas da planta. Um deles foi encaminhado ao Hospital Veterinário. No exame físico, o animal apresentou apatia, anorexia, escore corporal 1,5, pelos opacos, eriçados e no pelame era possível identificar gloquídeos. Na cavidade oral observou-se halitose, sialorreia intensa, extensas úlceras hemorrágicas e sensibilidade dolorosa à palpação. Devido ao prognóstico desfavorável o animal foi eutanasiado. Na necropsia, placas multifocais a coalescentes, elevadas, firmes e com superfície irregular, ulcerada, por vezes crostosas, com centro amarelo a marrom-claro e bordos eritematosos, estavam presentes nos lábios superiores, inferiores, mucosa oral, língua, palatos duro e mole. T. inamoena causa sérias lesões orais e oftálmicas em pequenos ruminantes no semiárido nordestino e prejuízos econômicos de grandes dimensões, que podem ser agravados pelo comportamento invasor da T. inamoena em áreas com indícios de degradação ambiental.(AU)

Ocular and oral lesions caused by Tacinga inamoena in sheep and goats in Northeast Brazil / Lesões oculares e orais causadas por Tacinga inamoena em ovinos e caprinos no Nordeste brasileiro

Two outbreaks of traumatic injuries in goats and sheep associated with grazing and ingestion of the cactus Tacinga inamoena have recently been reported in the state of Paraíba, Brazil. In the first of these, which was detected in 2019 during a preliminary inspection of a herd of 70 animals, it was found that 15 showed certain ocular complications, and these animals were subjected to general physical and ophthalmic examinations. The clinical findings included excessive lacrimation, blepharitis, photophobia, corneal opacity, hyphema, corneal neovascularization, corneal ulcers, and adherence of gloquids to the bulbar conjunctiva and cornea. Large amounts of T. inamoena were found to be present in several areas in which these animals had been grazed and had been observed consuming the fruits of this plant. In the second outbreak during the following year, two sheep from a total of 100 animals were identified as having oral lesions associated with grazing in areas within which T. inamoena was growing. One of these animals was referred to a veterinary hospital, and on physical examination was found to show apathy, anorexia, a body score of 1.5, and the presence of gloquids within the fur. With respect to the oral cavity, halitosis, severe sialorrhea, extensive hemorrhagic ulcers, and painful tenderness on palpation were detected. Given the unfavorable prognosis, the sheep was subsequently euthanized. At necropsy, multifocal to coalescent plaques were detected on the upper and lower lips, oral mucosa, tongue, and hard and soft palates. These were generally elevated and firm and characterized by an irregular, ulcerated surface, sometimes crusty, with a yellow to light brown center and erythematous edges. The findings of this study highlight that the consumption of T. inamoena can cause serious oral and ophthalmic lesions in small ruminants in the northeastern semi-arid regions of Brazil, and can potentially contribute to substantial large economic losses. This problem tends to be exacerbated by the invasive behavior of T. Inamoena, particularly in areas in the process of environmental degradation.(AU)

Relatam-se dois surtos de lesões traumáticas associadas ao pastejo e ingestão da Tacinga inamoena por caprinos e ovinos no estado da Paraíba, Brasil. No primeiro surto observou-se durante uma inspeção preliminar do rebanho que 15 dos 70 animais apresentavam alterações oculares, os animais foram submetidos ao exame físico geral e ao exame oftálmico. Lacrimejamento excessivo, blefarite, fotofobia, opacidade de córnea, hifema, neovascularização corneana, úlceras de córnea e gloquídeos aderidos à conjuntiva bulbar e córnea foram os achados clínicos identificados. A planta estava presente em diversas áreas e em grande quantidade nas áreas de pastejo, onde os animais eram vistos ingerindo seus frutos. No segundo surto, dois ovinos de um total de 100 animais, foram identificados com lesões orais associadas ao pastejo em áreas da planta. Um deles foi encaminhado ao Hospital Veterinário. No exame físico, o animal apresentou apatia, anorexia, escore corporal 1,5, pelos opacos, eriçados e no pelame era possível identificar gloquídeos. Na cavidade oral observou-se halitose, sialorreia intensa, extensas úlceras hemorrágicas e sensibilidade dolorosa à palpação. Devido ao prognóstico desfavorável o animal foi eutanasiado. Na necropsia, placas multifocais a coalescentes, elevadas, firmes e com superfície irregular, ulcerada, por vezes crostosas, com centro amarelo a marrom-claro e bordos eritematosos, estavam presentes nos lábios superiores, inferiores, mucosa oral, língua, palatos duro e mole. T. inamoena causa sérias lesões orais e oftálmicas em pequenos ruminantes no semiárido nordestino e prejuízos econômicos de grandes dimensões, que podem ser agravados pelo comportamento invasor da T. inamoena em áreas com indícios de degradação ambiental.(AU)

Bases para um programa de controle da artrite encefalite caprina em rebanho leiteiro / [Bases for a program of control of caprine arthritis encephalite in dairy flock]

Objetivou-se avaliar um programa de controle da artrite encefalite caprina (AEC), por meio de testes diagnósticos sensíveis, separação de mãe e cria após o parto e medidas de manejo, com o intuito de formar rebanho livre do vírus. Utilizou-se um total de 47 cabritos da raça Saanen, mantidos isoladamente até o resultado dos primeiros testes de reação em cadeia de polimerase nested (PCR nested) e Western Blotting (WB), com base na coleta de sangue no momento do nascimento (M0). No PCR nested, quatro animais foram positivos, no M0, e foram eutanasiados. Posteriormente, os demais 43 cabritos foram submetidos à coleta de sangue aos 60 (M60) e 270 (M270) dias de vida para realização de novos testes de WB e PCR nested, que não detectaram animais positivos. Pode-se afirmar que a metodologia adotada neste estudo foi efetiva no controle da doença, nas fases de aleitamento e pós-aleitamento, e que a combinação do sistema de manejo, a fim de propiciar diminuição de risco de transmissão horizontal, com técnicas de diagnóstico mais apuradas, como o WB e a PCR nested, é relevante para elaboração de plano estratégico de controle da enfermidade.(AU)

We aimed to evaluate a program to control Caprine Arthritis Encephalitis (CAE), using diagnostic tests, separation of the mother and postpartum and other management measures, in order to form a free flock of the virus. We used a total of 47 Saanengoats in isolation until the results of the first nested Polymerase Chain Reaction (nested PCR) and Western Blotting (WB) tests, based on blood collection at the time of birth (M0). In the nested PCR, 4 animals were positive, at M0, and were eliminated. Later, the other 43goats were submitted to blood collection at 60 (M60) and 270 (M270) days of life to perform new tests of WB and nested PCR, which did not detect positive animals. We can affirm that the methodology adopted in this study was effective in the control of the disease, in the phase of breastfeeding and post-breastfeeding, and that the combination of the management system, which allows a reduction of risk of horizontal transmission, with more accurate diagnostic techniques, such as WB and nested PCR, is relevant for the elaboration of a strategic plan for the disease control.(AU)

Quantitative analysis of expression patterns of different cell surface Toll-like receptor genes imparting heat stress resilience to indigenous Osmanabadi and Salem Black goat breeds

The study was conducted to establish the differences in the expression pattern of different cell surface toll-likereceptors (TLRs) between indigenous Osmanabadi and Salem Black goats subjected to summer season induced heat stress. The primary objective of the study is to assess the thermotolerance ability of these two breeds based on maintaining the immune status during exposure to heat stress. The results indicated that the expression of TLR1, TLR4, TLR5, TLR6, and TLR10 genes in both the breeds showed different expression pattern. The expression pattern of all these genes did not differed between the control (OC) and heat stress (OHS) group in Osmanabadi breed but significantly higher (P<0.05) expression of these genes were reported in heat stress group (SBHS) as compared to control group (SBC) in Salem Black breed. However, the striking difference was established in the expression pattern of TLR2 between these breeds. The TLR expression was significantly higher in heat stress group of Osmanabadi breed. But TLR2 did not express in Salem Back breed. The higher expression of most of the cell surface TLRs in the SBHS group as compared to OHS group indicates the superior resilient capacity of Salem Black goats to maintain immune status even during exposure to adverse environmental condition. Further, these TLRs could serve as indicators to reflect better thermo-tolerance of Salem Black breed over Osmanabadi breed.(AU)

Quantitative analysis of expression patterns of different cell surface Toll-like receptor genes imparting heat stress resilience to indigenous Osmanabadi and Salem Black goat breeds

The study was conducted to establish the differences in the expression pattern of different cell surface toll-likereceptors (TLRs) between indigenous Osmanabadi and Salem Black goats subjected to summer season induced heat stress. The primary objective of the study is to assess the thermotolerance ability of these two breeds based on maintaining the immune status during exposure to heat stress. The results indicated that the expression of TLR1, TLR4, TLR5, TLR6, and TLR10 genes in both the breeds showed different expression pattern. The expression pattern of all these genes did not differed between the control (OC) and heat stress (OHS) group in Osmanabadi breed but significantly higher (P<0.05) expression of these genes were reported in heat stress group (SBHS) as compared to control group (SBC) in Salem Black breed. However, the striking difference was established in the expression pattern of TLR2 between these breeds. The TLR expression was significantly higher in heat stress group of Osmanabadi breed. But TLR2 did not express in Salem Back breed. The higher expression of most of the cell surface TLRs in the SBHS group as compared to OHS group indicates the superior resilient capacity of Salem Black goats to maintain immune status even during exposure to adverse environmental condition. Further, these TLRs could serve as indicators to reflect better thermo-tolerance of Salem Black breed over Osmanabadi breed.

Serological evidence and spatial analysis of small ruminant lentiviruses in herds in Maranhão, Brazil

Caprine arthritis encephalitis and Maedi-Visna are lentiviruses affecting goats and sheep, respectively. Despite the literature having studies about these diseases, there is a constant demand and the need to study the health status of flocks that exploit economically. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the frequency of small ruminant lentiviruses explored in regional locations of Chapadinha and Itapecuru Mirim, that compose the microregion of Low Parnaíba, Maranhão, Brazil, as well as analyze the spatial distribution of outbreaks in the studied regions. Therefore, 241 properties were visited, where blood was collected in 1150 sheep and 1260 goats and tested by agar gel immunodiffusion (AGID). Epidemiological questionnaire was applied and collected the geographic coordinates. There was a low frequency for lentivirus, with 0.39% (5/1260) of goats and 0.08% (1/1150) of sheep. Regarding the spatial analysis, the reagent flocks were distributed in strategic cities for commercialization throughout the microregion. There was a low occurrence of lentiviruses. The municipalities of Cantanhede and Pirapemas of the regional of Itapecuru Mirim and Brejo and Magalhães de Almeida had reagent flocks for CAE. Whereas the municipality of Matões do Norte presented flock reagent to Maedi-Visna, this belonging to the regional of Chapadinha.

A artrite encefalite caprina e a Maedi-Visna são lentivírus que afetam cabras e ovelhas, respectivamente. Apesar da literatura apresentar estudos sobre essas doenças, existe uma demanda constante e a necessidade de se estudar o estado de saúde dos rebanhosexploradoseconomicamente. Portanto, este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a frequência de lentivírus de pequenos ruminantes explorados nasregionais de Chapadinha e Itapecuru Mirim, que compõem a microrregião do Baixo Parnaíba, Maranhão, Brasil, bem como analisar a distribuição espacial dos surtos nas regiões estudadas. Para tanto, foram visitadas 241 propriedades, onde foi coletado sangue de 1150 ovelhas e 1260 cabras e testado por imunodifusão em gel de ágar (IDGA). Foi aplicado questionário epidemiológico e coletado as coordenadas geográficas. Houve baixa frequência para lentivírus, com 0,39% (5/1260) de caprinos e 0,08% (1/1150) de ovinos. Quanto à análise espacial, os rebanhos reagentes foram distribuídos em cidades estratégicas para comercialização em toda a microrregião. Houve baixa ocorrência de lentivírus. Os municípios de Catanhede e Pirapemas da regional de Itapecuru Mirime Brejo e Magalhães de Almeida possuíam rebanhos reagentes para CAE. Já o município de Matões do Norte apresentou reagente rebanho à Maedi-Visna, esta pertencente à regional de Chapadinha.

Occurrence of anti-Toxoplasma gondii antibody and evaluation of risk infection factors in goats raised in Sergipe state, Brazil / Ocorrência de anticorpo anti-Toxoplasma gondii e avaliação de fatores de risco de infecção em caprinos criados no estado de Sergipe, Brasil

The objective was to determine, through indirect immunofluorescence reaction (RIFI, 1:64), the occurrence of IgG antibodies to Toxoplasma gondii and the risk factors associated with infection in goats in the state of Sergipe. To this study were used 675 samples of blood of animals from 41 farms of the three state mesoregions from 2013 to 2014. The occurrence of seropositive goats was 30.07%, with 90.24% of farms with seropositive animals. The distribution of titers obtained was 37.93%, 11.82%, 17.24%, 18.22%, and 17.77% for 64, 128, 512 and 1024 respectively. The risk factors observed were farms that did not have facilities (p=0.000, OR=2.30, CI 95%=1.41-3.74), with flooded soils (p=0.011, OR=2.94, CI 95%=1.27-6.79), which provided feed on the ground (p=0.032, OR=1.69, CI 95%=1.04-2.74), in uncovered cages (p=0.032, OR=1.69, CI 95%=1.04-2.74), pasture-based feed (p=0.003, OR=3.52, CI 95%=1.53-8.09), with access from cats to (p=0.031, OR=1.45, CI 95%=1.03-2.04) and introduced new breeders in the last five years (p=0.036, OR=1.58, CI 95%=1.02-2.74).(AU)

O objetivo desse estudo foi determinar, através da reação de imunofluorescência indireta (RIFI, 1:64), a ocorrência de anticorpos IgG para o Toxoplasma gondii e os fatores de risco associados à infecção em rebanhos caprinos do estado de Sergipe, a partir de 675 amostras de sangue de animais de 41 propriedades das três mesorregiões do estado entre os anos de 2013 e 2014. A ocorrência de caprinos soropositivos foi de 30,07% com 90,24% de propriedades com animais soropositivos. A distribuição dos títulos obtidos foi de 37,93%, 11,82%, 17,24%, 18,22% e 17,77% para 64, 128, 512 e 1024 respectivamente. Os fatores de riscos observados foram propriedades que não possuíam instalações (p=0,000, OR=2,30, IC 95%=1,41-3,74), com terrenos alagados (p=0,011, OR=2,94, IC 95%=1,27-6,79), que disponibilizam a ração no chão (p=0,032, OR=1,69, IC 95%=1,04-2,74), em cochos descobertos (p=0,000, OR=1,97, IC 95%=1,32-2,94), alimentação à base de pastagem (p=0,003, OR=3,52, IC 95%=1,53-8,09), com acesso de gatos à fonte de água (p=0,031, OR=1,45, IC 95%=1,03-2,04) e que introduziram novos reprodutores nos últimos cinco anos (p=0,036, OR=1,58, IC 95%=1,02-2,74).(AU)