Estimated correlations of ultrasound carcass measurements and physical-chemical components of Santa Ines sheep meat

A avaliação da composição da carcaça do gado gera informações relevantes sobre a qualidade e rendimento final dos produtos cárneos. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar as correlações das medidas ultrassonográficas in vivo do Longissimus lumborum com os componentes físico-químicos de ovinos Santa Inês de um ano de idade criados em sistema extensivo. A avaliação ultrassonográfica foi realizada da área de olho de lombo (USrea), profundidade do lombo (USld), largura do lombo (USlw) e espessura de gordura subcutânea (USsft). Após o abate, os cortes de carne foram pesados ​​e o rendimento de carcaça calculado. dia 12a costela do lado esquerdo foi separada da carcaça e dissecada, após o que ossos, músculos e gordura individuais foram separados e pesados. Os componentes foram reagrupados, triturados e coletados para avaliação centesimal. Correlações positivas significativas (p < 0,05) foram encontradas entre as medidas de ultrassom e as métricas de carne, exceto para o comprimento do lombo, que apresentou baixa correlação. Correlações significativas (p < 0,05) foram encontradas entre os músculos e as medidas de USld, USrea e USsft. As correlações (p < 0,05) entre os ossos e USld e USrea foram negativas e significativas. USsft apresentou correlação (p < 0,05) com o rendimento de carcaça. Assim, as medidas de ultrassom associadas ao Longissimus lumborumpode constituir uma valiosa ferramenta para avaliação dos componentes físico-químicos e da carcaça de ovinos Santa Inês de um ano de idade criados em sistemas extensivos.(AU)

Comparison of reproductive performance, live weight, survivability, and fleece characteristics of indoor-raised Central Anatolian Merino and Malya sheep

This study was conducted to compare Central Anatolian Merino (CAM) and Malya sheep under intensive conditions in terms of reproductive traits, birth and weaning weights, fattening performance, and some fleece characteristics. In this study, 840 CAM and 194 Malya ewes were used for the comparison of reproductive performance, whereas 740 and 211 lambs were used to compare growth traits between the two breeds. Additionally, the fattening performance of 61 CAM and 68 Malya lambs were compared. Finally, for the comparison of wool quality traits, 94 CAM and 90 Malya lambs were used. The lambs were kept together with the sheep that gave birth to them for 10 days. After this period, lambs were given lamb starter feed, alfalfa hay, and vetch hay in addition to milk. When lambs reached 40 days old, they were taken to the pasture with the sheep. In this period, pasture grass, growing lamb concentrate feed, alfalfa hay, and vetch hay were given in addition to milk. Lambs were weaned when they reached an average age of 90 days, and their live weights were determined. A determined number of lambs was selected from weaned male lambs. For these animals, in the fattening period, barley, alfalfa hay, vetch hay, meadow hay, and lentil straw were provided ad libitum in addition to 400 g/day/head of fattening feed. This study indicated that birth rate was better for CAM sheep than for Malya sheep. However, Malya lambs may have more advantages than CAM lambs in terms of survival and fattening performance. Although birth weight was higher for Malya sheep than for CAM sheep, the opposite result was observed for the weaning weight. The beginning weights of fattened male lambs were higher for CAM lambs than for Malya lambs, but the ending weights of both fattened groups were similar.(AU)

Scrotal circumference in Karagouniko and Chios sheep in relation to the aerial environment

Local breeds are a valuable asset in sheep farming systems in Greece and other Mediterranean countries. Among these, Karagouniko and Chios sheep hold a special position, participating in numerous genetic improvement programs, but a research gap exists on their scrotal circumference (SC) in relation to the environmental parameters photoperiod (PHOTO), air temperature, sunshine and rainfall. Therefore, four seasons were examined: April-June and July-September (Long days, increasing and decreasing photoperiod length, respectively), and October-December and January-March (Short days, decreasing and increasing photoperiod length, respectively). Repeated measures analysis of variance and linear correlation analysis were used to investigate the effect of the period on SC and the relationships of SC and each of the environmental parameters above, respectively, in both breeds. Also, independent t-tests were used to investigate SC differences between Karagouniko and Chios. A progressive increase of SC in both breeds coincided with the lowering of PHOTO from April-June to October-December. A significant correlation was confirmed between the SC of each breed and PHOTO, shedding light on the importance of this parameter on SC. Chios sheep had significantly larger (P < 0.05) SC (35.23 cm) than the Karagouniko one (34.59 cm). Better exploitation of these sheep breeds could be derived from the current study's findings.

Prevalência de Oestrus ovis (Diptera: Oestridae) em ovinos de Ituiutaba, região sudeste do Brasil / Prevalence of Oestrus ovis (Diptera: Oestridae) in sheep from Ituiutaba, southeast region of Brazil

Dentre as doenças que podem atingir as cavidades nasais dos pequenos ruminantes, destaca-se a oestrose. No Brasil, mais especificamente na região Sudeste, os relatos estão limitados ao estado de São Paulo e ao município de Araxá, Minas Gerais. Assim, procurou-se avaliar a prevalência parasitária do Oestrus ovis em ovinos criados no município de Ituiutaba, Minas Gerais-Brasil, correlacionando ao mesmo tempo o tamanho e estágio larval com a sua localização anatômica. Oitenta e oito hemicabeças de Ovis aries mestiços Santa Inês com Dorper saudáveis foram utilizadas aleatoriamente. As larvas visualizadas foram então coletadas e fixadas para serem quantificadas e analisadas em relação ao seu tamanho e estágio de desenvolvimento. Conclui-se que a oestrose é um problema existente no município de Ituiutaba, sendo este o primeiro estudo completo sobre a prevalência deste parasito no estado de Minas Gerais. Por distribuição anatômica, apenas as diferenças das médias larvais totais entre o seio frontal e o meato nasal ventral, meato nasal comum e a nasofaringe foram significativas - o que confirma a preferência das larvas por essa região. Em tamanho, a diferença significativa só ocorreu mediante a comparação entre o tamanho e estágio das larvas, informação crucial para uma melhor compreensão da progressão cíclica, sintomatologia clínica e profilaxia dos animais.

Among the diseases which can afflict the nasal cavities of small ruminants, oestrosis stands out. In Brazil, more specifically in its South-East region, the reports are limited only to the State of São Paulo and to the municipality of Araxá, Minas Gerais. Therefore, it has been sought to assess the parasitic prevalence of Oestrus ovis in sheep farmed in the municipality of Ituiutaba, Minas Gerais-Brazil, while correlating the larval size and stage, and its anatomical localization. Eighty-eight hemiheads of healthy Santa Inês/Dorper crossbreds Ovis aries have been used at random. The larvae in view were then collected and fixated to be quantified and analyzed in regard of size and stage of development. It is concluded that the oestrosis is an existing problem in the municipality of Ituiutaba, this being the first complete study on the prevalence of this parasite in the State of Minas Gerais. By anatomical distribution, only the differences of total larval averages between the frontal sinus and the ventral nasal meatus, the common nasal meatus and the nasopharynx have been significant. In size, the significant difference has been there only upon comparison between the size and the larval stage, information that is crucial for a better understanding of the cyclic progression, of the clinical symptomatology, and animal prophylaxis.

Cardiorespiratory and hemogasometric effects of epidural ketamine and its associations with morphine and xylazine in sheep / Efeitos cardiorrespiratórios e hemogasométricos da cetamina e suas associações com morfina e xilazina por via epidural em ovinos

This study aimed to evaluate the cardiorespiratory and hemogasometric effects of epidural ketamine and its associations with morphine and xylazine in ewes submitted to transcervical cervix transposition with a hegar dilator. Ten Santa Inês breed ewes were studied in a cross over model study where three epidural protocols (GK = ketamine 2.0 mg kg-1; GKM = ketamine 2.0 mg kg-1 + morphine 0.1 mg kg-1; GKX = ketamine 2.0 mg kg-1 + xylazine 0.05 mg kg-1) were compared among each other and with a control treatment (GS= saline 1 mL/7.5 kg). The assessed variables were heart rate, respiratory frequency, ear temperature, non-invasive blood pressure and hemogasometric analysis. All parameters were assessed at baseline and then ewes were sedated with an association of acepromazine (0.1 mg kg -1) and diazepam (0.2 mg kg -1). Ten minutes after sedation all parameters were reassessed and afterwards the epidural injections were performed. Hemogasometry was repeated at 15 and 30 minutes after epidural and the other parameters assessed at 05, 15, 30, 45 and 60 minutes after epidural. GKX showed a slight respiratory depression with lower levels of PO2 and a compensatory increase in respiratory frequency. GKM presented the lower temperature mean. All protocols showed few cardiorespiratory effects when compared with control. Epidural with 2.0 mg kg-1 ketamine isolated was considered the best opti

Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar os efeitos cardiorrespiratórios e hemogasométricos da cetamina peridural e suas associações com morfina e xilazina em ovelhas submetidas à manipulação uterina por via transcervical. Foram estudadas dez ovelhas da raça Santa Inês. Três protocolos epidurais foram avaliados: (GK = cetamina 2,0 mg kg−1, GKM = cetamina 2,0 mg kg−1 + morfina 0,1 mg kg−1, GKX = cetamina 2,0 mg kg−1 + xilazina 0,05 mg kg−1). Os três protocolos foram comparados entre si e com um tratamento controle (GS = solução salina 1 mL/7,5kg). As variáveis avaliadas foram frequência cardíaca, frequência respiratória, temperatura auricular, pressão arterial não-invasiva além da análise hemogasométrica. Todos os parâmetros foram avaliados no momento basal e em seguida as ovelhas foram sedadas com associação de acepromazina (0,1 mg kg−1) e diazepam (0,2 mg kg−1). Dez minutos após a sedação, todos os parâmetros foram novamente avaliados e foram realizadas as injeções peridurais. A hemogasometria foi repetida aos 15 e 30 minutos após a peridural e os outros parâmetros avaliados aos 05, 15, 30, 45, e 60 minutos após a peridural. O GKX mostrou sinais de hipoxemia com menores níveis de pO2 e um aumento compensatório na frequência respiratória. O GKM apresentou a média de temperatura mais baixa. Todos os protocolos apresentaram poucos efeitos cardiorrespiratórios em relação ao controle. O protocolo epidural com 2,0 mg kg−1 de cetamina foi considerado a melhor opção para procedimentos curtos como manipulações obstétricas em ovinos devido à estabilidade cardiorrespiratória quando comparado com os protocolos que utilizaram associações.(AU)

Cardiorespiratory and hemogasometric effects of epidural ketamine and its associations with morphine and xylazine in sheep / Efeitos cardiorrespiratórios e hemogasométricos da cetamina e suas associações com morfina e xilazina por via epidural em ovinos

This study aimed to evaluate the cardiorespiratory and hemogasometric effects of epidural ketamine and its associations with morphine and xylazine in ewes submitted to transcervical cervix transposition with a hegar dilator. Ten Santa Inês breed ewes were studied in a cross over model study where three epidural protocols (GK = ketamine 2.0 mg kg-1; GKM = ketamine 2.0 mg kg-1 + morphine 0.1 mg kg-1; GKX = ketamine 2.0 mg kg-1 + xylazine 0.05 mg kg-1) were compared among each other and with a control treatment (GS= saline 1 mL/7.5 kg). The assessed variables were heart rate, respiratory frequency, ear temperature, non-invasive blood pressure and hemogasometric analysis. All parameters were assessed at baseline and then ewes were sedated with an association of acepromazine (0.1 mg kg -1) and diazepam (0.2 mg kg -1). Ten minutes after sedation all parameters were reassessed and afterwards the epidural injections were performed. Hemogasometry was repeated at 15 and 30 minutes after epidural and the other parameters assessed at 05, 15, 30, 45 and 60 minutes after epidural. GKX showed a slight respiratory depression with lower levels of PO2 and a compensatory increase in respiratory frequency. GKM presented the lower temperature mean. All protocols showed few cardiorespiratory effects when compared with control. Epidural with 2.0 mg kg-1 ketamine isolated was considered the best opti

Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar os efeitos cardiorrespiratórios e hemogasométricos da cetamina peridural e suas associações com morfina e xilazina em ovelhas submetidas à manipulação uterina por via transcervical. Foram estudadas dez ovelhas da raça Santa Inês. Três protocolos epidurais foram avaliados: (GK = cetamina 2,0 mg kg−1, GKM = cetamina 2,0 mg kg−1 + morfina 0,1 mg kg−1, GKX = cetamina 2,0 mg kg−1 + xilazina 0,05 mg kg−1). Os três protocolos foram comparados entre si e com um tratamento controle (GS = solução salina 1 mL/7,5kg). As variáveis avaliadas foram frequência cardíaca, frequência respiratória, temperatura auricular, pressão arterial não-invasiva além da análise hemogasométrica. Todos os parâmetros foram avaliados no momento basal e em seguida as ovelhas foram sedadas com associação de acepromazina (0,1 mg kg−1) e diazepam (0,2 mg kg−1). Dez minutos após a sedação, todos os parâmetros foram novamente avaliados e foram realizadas as injeções peridurais. A hemogasometria foi repetida aos 15 e 30 minutos após a peridural e os outros parâmetros avaliados aos 05, 15, 30, 45, e 60 minutos após a peridural. O GKX mostrou sinais de hipoxemia com menores níveis de pO2 e um aumento compensatório na frequência respiratória. O GKM apresentou a média de temperatura mais baixa. Todos os protocolos apresentaram poucos efeitos cardiorrespiratórios em relação ao controle. O protocolo epidural com 2,0 mg kg−1 de cetamina foi considerado a melhor opção para procedimentos curtos como manipulações obstétricas em ovinos devido à estabilidade cardiorrespiratória quando comparado com os protocolos que utilizaram associações.

Synchronization of follicular wave emergence does not improve embryonic yield in superovulated ewes

The present study aimed to investigate the effects of a combination of progesterone with different doses of E-17β on following end points: (1) ovarian follicular dynamics and emergence of a new follicular wave, and (2) superovulatory response and embryo yield. In Experiment 1, 28 ewes were randomly divided into four groups (n = 7) to receive either 2.0 mg, 1.0 mg, 0.5 mg or none E-17β one day after insertion of a progesterone device. The different doses of estradiol similarly delayed the moment of follicular emergence (overall mean = 3.1 ± 1.0 days vs. control group = 0.86 ± 1.0 days; P < 0.01), but the emergence of the new wave showed greater synchronization with the 0.5 mg dosage of E-17β. In Experiment 2, sixty-two donor ewes received an internal progesterone release device (day -1) for 7 d and 1 d after the insertion of this device (day 0) were allocated randomly to receive 0.5 mg of E-17β or only the vehicle (control group). Superstimulation was initiated on day 3 with the administration of 133 mg of pFSH in eight decreasing doses. Contrary to expectations, the protocol with the administration of 0.5 mg E-17β did not improve the percentage of donors with > 2 CL, the number of CL and the production of embryos (P > 0.05). It was concluded that the combination of progesterone and 0.5 mg E-17β was more efficient in synchronizing the emergence of the new follicular wave, however this approach seems to be unnecessary in ewes superovulation programs.(AU)

Anatomical variation of the dorsal buccal branch of the facial nerve in sheep: a case report / Variação anatômica do ramo bucal dorsal do nervo facial em ovino: relato de caso

The disposition and topography of the facial nerve are arguably of critical importance for professionals who work directly with oral health. This paper reports a case of anatomical variation in which the dorsal buccal branch of the facial nerve perforated the parotid lymph node parenchyma in two hemiheads of Ovis aries. The infratemporal and facial regions of 30 hemiheads were dissected in a practical class following the methodology indicated in the literature. As expected, after emerging from the stylomastoid foramen, the facial nerve subdivided into the dorsal and ventral buccal branches in all animals. However, in 6.66% of the hemiheads, the dorsal branch perforated longitudinally the parotid lymph node parenchyma. We concluded that even with a low rate of occurrence, anatomical variations of the dorsal buccal branch of the facial nerve may be present in sheep. This knowledge is of essential importance because subsequent traumatic and/or inflammatory changes can cause neural compression and compromise the innervation of the face, leading to semiological and diagnostic confusion.

O nervo facial é, indiscutivelmente, um dos mais importantes para aqueles profissionais que trabalham diretamente com a saúde oral. Sabendo que a disposição e topografia do nervo facial são de importância crítica para a prática médica, objetivou-se relatar um caso de variação anatômica em que o ramo bucal dorsal do nervo facial perfurou o parênquima do linfonodo parotídeo em duas hemicabeças de Ovis aries. As regiões infratemporal e facial de 30 hemicabeças foram dissecadas e conforme esperado, após emergir pelo forame estilomastóideo o nervo facial subdividiu-se nos ramos bucal dorsal e bucal ventral em todos os animais, entretanto, em 6,66% das hemicabeças este primeiro ramo perfurou longitudinalmente o parênquima do linfonodo parotídeo. Concluiu-se que, ainda que com uma taxa de ocorrência baixa, variações anatômicas do ramo bucal dorsal do nervo facial podem estar presentes nos ovinos. Este conhecimento é de essencial importância uma vez que em casos como este as alterações traumáticas e/ou inflamatórias podem causar a compressão neural e comprometimento da inervação da face, possibilitando uma confusão semiológica e diagnóstica.

Sheep and goat feeding behavior profile in grazing systems

Feeding behavior analysis provides information about the relationships between animals and pastures. Therefore, this review aims to describe some aspects of the feeding behavior profiles of both sheep and goats in grazing systems. The structure of the pasture is a key factor in the feeding behavior of grazing animals. The amount of feed consumed in a given period of time is affected by the number of meals, duration and velocity of swallowing, changes in grazing time, bite rate, bite weight, and quality of ingested forage. The different phenological stages of forage also influence the animals strategies to optimize their intake, which consequently changes their behavioral activities. Sheep and goats tend to be more selective than cattle, and young animals are more selective than older animals; this selectivity characteristicis one of the most important aspects to be observed in pasture management. According to the degree of selectivity, the animals will intake forages of higher or lower nutritive quality. In addition, the intensity and distribution of their daily activities (grazing, ruminating, and resting)are influenced by several factors, such as the availability and nutritive value of the pasture, its management, the animal activity in the group, and the predominant climatic conditions of the region.(AU)

Anatomical variation of the dorsal buccal branch of the facial nerve in sheep: a case report / Variação anatômica do ramo bucal dorsal do nervo facial em ovino: relato de caso

The disposition and topography of the facial nerve are arguably of critical importance for professionals who work directly with oral health. This paper reports a case of anatomical variation in which the dorsal buccal branch of the facial nerve perforated the parotid lymph node parenchyma in two hemiheads of Ovis aries. The infratemporal and facial regions of 30 hemiheads were dissected in a practical class following the methodology indicated in the literature. As expected, after emerging from the stylomastoid foramen, the facial nerve subdivided into the dorsal and ventral buccal branches in all animals. However, in 6.66% of the hemiheads, the dorsal branch perforated longitudinally the parotid lymph node parenchyma. We concluded that even with a low rate of occurrence, anatomical variations of the dorsal buccal branch of the facial nerve may be present in sheep. This knowledge is of essential importance because subsequent traumatic and/or inflammatory changes can cause neural compression and compromise the innervation of the face, leading to semiological and diagnostic confusion.(AU)

O nervo facial é, indiscutivelmente, um dos mais importantes para aqueles profissionais que trabalham diretamente com a saúde oral. Sabendo que a disposição e topografia do nervo facial são de importância crítica para a prática médica, objetivou-se relatar um caso de variação anatômica em que o ramo bucal dorsal do nervo facial perfurou o parênquima do linfonodo parotídeo em duas hemicabeças de Ovis aries. As regiões infratemporal e facial de 30 hemicabeças foram dissecadas e conforme esperado, após emergir pelo forame estilomastóideo o nervo facial subdividiu-se nos ramos bucal dorsal e bucal ventral em todos os animais, entretanto, em 6,66% das hemicabeças este primeiro ramo perfurou longitudinalmente o parênquima do linfonodo parotídeo. Concluiu-se que, ainda que com uma taxa de ocorrência baixa, variações anatômicas do ramo bucal dorsal do nervo facial podem estar presentes nos ovinos. Este conhecimento é de essencial importância uma vez que em casos como este as alterações traumáticas e/ou inflamatórias podem causar a compressão neural e comprometimento da inervação da face, possibilitando uma confusão semiológica e diagnóstica.(AU)

Sheep and goat feeding behavior profile in grazing systems

Feeding behavior analysis provides information about the relationships between animals and pastures. Therefore, this review aims to describe some aspects of the feeding behavior profiles of both sheep and goats in grazing systems. The structure of the pasture is a key factor in the feeding behavior of grazing animals. The amount of feed consumed in a given period of time is affected by the number of meals, duration and velocity of swallowing, changes in grazing time, bite rate, bite weight, and quality of ingested forage. The different phenological stages of forage also influence the animals’ strategies to optimize their intake, which consequently changes their behavioral activities. Sheep and goats tend to be more selective than cattle, and young animals are more selective than older animals; this selectivity characteristicis one of the most important aspects to be observed in pasture management. According to the degree of selectivity, the animals will intake forages of higher or lower nutritive quality. In addition, the intensity and distribution of their daily activities (grazing, ruminating, and resting)are influenced by several factors, such as the availability and nutritive value of the pasture, its management, the animal activity in the group, and the predominant climatic conditions of the region.

Characterization of goat and sheep production in the state of Sergipe, Northeast of Brazil / Caracterização do sistema de produção de caprinos e ovinos no estado de Sergipe, Nordeste do Brasil

Characterization of the profile of goat and sheep production in Sergipe enables better understanding of the main barriers linked to low productivity, generating important information for the development of this sector. The objective was to identify and characterize the production of goats and sheep in Sergipe. From 2011 to 2014, 41 goat properties and 60 sheep properties were analyzed, located in 25 municipalities in the three mesoregions of the State (Leste, Agreste, and Sertão). The information was obtained through application of a structured questionnaire to the farmers addressing topics such as: characterization of the property, herd, facilities, sanitary, nutritional, and reproductive management, and socioeconomic aspects of the farmer.  The results demonstrated that 58.5% (24/41) of goat farms had an area less than 30 hectares (ha), reared predominantly mixed breed animals (SRD), with low use of technologies, aiming at family consumption, and complementing income through local marketing. On the sheep properties, 58.3% (35/60) were over 100 ha and used for the production of Santa Inês sheep and crossbreeds together with cattle. Significant flaws were also observed in feed, sanitary, and reproductive management, emphasizing the non-use of preserved foods and forages typical of the region, factors that contribute to the low level of productivity and ustainability of production in a viable and homogeneous manner. The findings led to the conclusion that more organized production is necessary, mainly through investment in technologies and qualified and continuous rural extension, aiming at improving the production, productivity, income, and quality of life of the breeders.

A caracterização do perfil das criações possibilita um maior entendimento dos principais entraves ligados a baixa produtividade e auxilia na disponibilização de dados importantes para a busca de soluções para crescimento da ovinocaprinocultura. O presente trabalho teve como objetivo caracterizar o sistema de produção de caprinos e ovinos no estado de Sergipe. Foram visitadas entre os anos de 2011 e 2014, 41 e 60 propriedades de caprinos e ovinos, respectivamente, localizadas em 25 municípios distribuídos nas três mesorregiões do Estado (Leste, Agreste e Sertão). O levantamento dos dados ocorreu pela aplicação de questionário junto aos proprietários, com temas referentes às características do rebanho, instalações, manejo sanitário, nutricional e reprodutivo eperfil do criador. A caprinocultura foi caracterizada como atividade complementar da renda de pequenos produtores rurais, com a maioria do rebanho representado por animais de padrão racial não definido e pela raça Saanen. A atividade é voltada ao consumo familiar com baixo uso tecnológico e produção leiteira para atendimento do comércio local. Enquanto que na ovinocultura, os rebanhos são compostos por animais puros e mestiços da raça Santa Inês mantidos em grandes áreas de terra devido a sua criação consorciada com bovinos. As falhas de manejo observadas nos rebanhos caprinos e ovinos comprometem a viabilidade do sistema de produção, contribuindo com maiores desafios para ovinocaprinocultura sergipana em atender a demanda do mercado consumidor do Estado

Characterization of goat and sheep production in the state of Sergipe, Northeast of Brazil / Caracterização do sistema de produção de caprinos e ovinos no estado de Sergipe, Nordeste do Brasil

Characterization of the profile of goat and sheep production in Sergipe enables better understanding of the main barriers linked to low productivity, generating important information for the development of this sector. The objective was to identify and characterize the production of goats and sheep in Sergipe. From 2011 to 2014, 41 goat properties and 60 sheep properties were analyzed, located in 25 municipalities in the three mesoregions of the State (Leste, Agreste, and Sertão). The information was obtained through application of a structured questionnaire to the farmers addressing topics such as: characterization of the property, herd, facilities, sanitary, nutritional, and reproductive management, and socioeconomic aspects of the farmer.  The results demonstrated that 58.5% (24/41) of goat farms had an area less than 30 hectares (ha), reared predominantly mixed breed animals (SRD), with low use of technologies, aiming at family consumption, and complementing income through local marketing. On the sheep properties, 58.3% (35/60) were over 100 ha and used for the production of Santa Inês sheep and crossbreeds together with cattle. Significant flaws were also observed in feed, sanitary, and reproductive management, emphasizing the non-use of preserved foods and forages typical of the region, factors that contribute to the low level of productivity and ustainability of production in a viable and homogeneous manner. The findings led to the conclusion that more organized production is necessary, mainly through investment in technologies and qualified and continuous rural extension, aiming at improving the production, productivity, income, and quality of life of the breeders.(AU)

A caracterização do perfil das criações possibilita um maior entendimento dos principais entraves ligados a baixa produtividade e auxilia na disponibilização de dados importantes para a busca de soluções para crescimento da ovinocaprinocultura. O presente trabalho teve como objetivo caracterizar o sistema de produção de caprinos e ovinos no estado de Sergipe. Foram visitadas entre os anos de 2011 e 2014, 41 e 60 propriedades de caprinos e ovinos, respectivamente, localizadas em 25 municípios distribuídos nas três mesorregiões do Estado (Leste, Agreste e Sertão). O levantamento dos dados ocorreu pela aplicação de questionário junto aos proprietários, com temas referentes às características do rebanho, instalações, manejo sanitário, nutricional e reprodutivo eperfil do criador. A caprinocultura foi caracterizada como atividade complementar da renda de pequenos produtores rurais, com a maioria do rebanho representado por animais de padrão racial não definido e pela raça Saanen. A atividade é voltada ao consumo familiar com baixo uso tecnológico e produção leiteira para atendimento do comércio local. Enquanto que na ovinocultura, os rebanhos são compostos por animais puros e mestiços da raça Santa Inês mantidos em grandes áreas de terra devido a sua criação consorciada com bovinos. As falhas de manejo observadas nos rebanhos caprinos e ovinos comprometem a viabilidade do sistema de produção, contribuindo com maiores desafios para ovinocaprinocultura sergipana em atender a demanda do mercado consumidor do Estado(AU)

Lesions of the sheep reproductive system found in a slaughterhouse in the state of Bahia, Brazil / Lesões do sistema reprodutor em ovelhas de abatedouros frigoríficos no estado da Bahia

The present study aimed to evaluate and diagnose pathologies of the reproductive system of slaughtered sheep in slaughterhouses in the state of Bahia since there are few data on the subject as well as it is important to note the diagnosis of these diseases to apply appropriate control and prophylaxis measures. The research was carried out in slaughterhouses in the state of Bahia according to the "Serviço de Inspeção Federal" and "Serviço de Inspeção Estadual" for sheep slaughter. From July 2018 to February 2019, visits and monitoring of 1,072 slaughtered sheep were carried out. The animals came from 22 municipalities in the state of Bahia, aged from six to 18 months. During slaughter, the sheep reproductive systems were sectioned for evisceration and lesion collection. Additionally, epidemiological surveys related to origin, age, and race were obtained. For bacteriological examination, collections were performed with sterile scalpel slides and swabs in Stuart medium sterile tubes and refrigerated in a thermal box. For histopathological analysis, fragments were fixed in 10% formaldehyde and routinely processed for histology, stained with Hematoxylin and Eosin (HE). A study of the sheep's main pathological changes in slaughterhouses in the state of Bahia was carried out, in which 1.072 genital systems were evaluated, and 211 alterations were identified. The most affected reproductive organs were the ovaries (65.3%), followed by the uterus (29.4%) and uterine tubes (5.3%). In the ovaries, the most frequent lesion was a follicular cyst (34.1%); in the fallopian tubes, the cysts represented 3.3% of the lesions, and in the womb, endometritis was observed in 9% of the animals. Other pathologies identified in the ovaries were: luteinized cyst (2.3%); cystic granulosa cell tumor (0.5%); benign lesion (0.5%); agenesis unilateral (0.5%), in addition to other changes of little clinical significance, such as corpus luteum cysts (11.8%) and paraovarian cysts (15.6%). In the fallopian tubes, hydrosalpinx was observed (1%), as well as adenoma (0.5%), agenesis (0.5%), and cysts (3.3%). Uterine lesions included hydrometra (2.3%); Cystic Endometrial Hyperplasia (CEH), abscess, and pyometra (1.4% each); adenomyosis, womb sera petechiae, and total segmental aplasia (1% each); two pregnant uterus, in early pregnancy, presented pyometra (0.9%), however, no change was observed in the fetuses; and uterine polyp (0.5%). Ectopic pregnancy with fetal maceration (0.5%) was observed; vaginitis occurred in 0.5% of the animals, and endometrial melanosis in 8.5%. The high incidence of follicular cysts and endometritis are characterized as diseases that reduce the reproductive efficiency in herds, causing infertility and economic losses in production.(AU)

O objetivo do presente trabalho foi avaliar e diagnosticar alterações do sistema reprodutor de ovelhas abatidas em abatedouros frigoríficos no estado da Bahia. A pesquisa foi realizada em abatedouros frigoríficos do estado da Bahia com Serviços de Inspeção Federal e Estadual no abate de ovinos. No período de julho de 2018 a fevereiro de 2019 foram realizadas visitas e acompanhamento do abate de 1.072 ovelhas. Os animais eram provenientes de 22 municípios do estado da Bahia, com idade entre 6 a 18 meses. Durante o abate, na evisceração foram seccionados os sistemas reprodutores das ovelhas para avaliação e coleta das lesões. Adicionalmente foram obtidos inquéritos epidemiológicos relacionados à procedência, idade e raça. Para o exame bacteriológico, as coletas foram realizadas com lâminas de bisturi estéreis e swabs em tubos estéreis com meio Stuart e refrigeradas em caixa térmica. Para análise histopatológica, os fragmentos foram fixados em formol a 10% e processados de forma rotineira para histologia e corados pela hematoxilina e eosina (HE). Entre 1.072 sistemas genitais avaliados, identificou-se 211 alterações. Os órgãos do sistema reprodutor mais acometidos foram os ovários (65,3%), útero (29,4%) e tubas uterinas (5,3%). Nos ovários, a lesão mais frequente foi o cisto folicular (34,1%); no útero a endometrite (9%) e nas tubas uterinas, os cistos representaram (3,3%). Outras lesões identificadas nos ovários foram: cisto luteinizado (2,3%); tumor de células da granulosa (0,5%); adenoma (0,5%); agenesia unilateral (0,5%), além de outras alterações de pouco significado clínico, como cistos paraovarianos (15,6%) e corpo lúteo cístico (11,8%). Nas tubas uterinas observou-se, além dos cistos tubo-ovarianos (3,3%), hidrossalpinge (1%), adenoma (0,5%) e agenesia (0,5%). As lesões uterinas foram endometrite (9%), hidrometra (2,3%); hiperplasia endometrial cística, abscesso e piometra (1,4% cada); adenomiose, petéquias na serosa do útero e aplasia segmentar (1% cada); dois úteros gravídicos, em início de gestação, apresentaram piometra (0,9%), porém os fetos não apresentaram alterações; e pólipo uterino (0,5%). Observou-se uma gestação ectópica com maceração fetal (0,5%); a vaginite ocorreu em 0,5%, e melanose endometrial em 8,5%. Destaca-se a elevada incidência de cistos foliculares e endometrite que são doenças que reduzem a eficiência reprodutiva dos rebanhos, provocando infertilidade e perdas econômicas na produção.(AU)

Study of morphometric and ruminal parameters in santa inês sheep fed spineless cactus (Opuntia ficus-indica, MILL) / [Estudo dos parâmetros morfométricos e ruminais em ovinos Santa Inês alimentados com cactus sem espinhos (Opuntia ficus-indica, MILL)]

The present study aimed to morphometrically evaluate the ruminal mucosa and ruminal fluid characteristics of Santa Inês sheep fed different levels of spineless cactus as a replacement for Tifton grass hay. A total of 32 intact male Santa Inês sheep, approximately 180 days old and with a mean weight of 32.0±1.6kg, were studied in a completely randomized design with four treatments and eight replicates. The morphometric measurements evaluated in the ruminal epithelium (papilla height and surface area) were significantly affected (P< 0.05) by supplementation of the diet with spineless cactus, and these effects showed increasing linear trends. Evaluations of the ruminal fluid also showed a significant increasing linear effect (P< 0.05) for ammonia and a quadratic effect for microbial protein. The inclusion of spineless cactus in the sheep diet affects the ruminal epithelium morphology, including the papilla height and surface area, and favors the absorption process in the rumen. The diet containing higher levels of spineless cactus led to maximum microbial protein production. These results characterize spineless cactus as a feasible alternative for feeding sheep during periods of drought, when the typical food source is scarce.(AU)

O presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar morfometricamente a mucosa ruminal e as características do líquido ruminal de ovinos Santa Inês alimentados com diferentes níveis de palma forrageira como substituta do feno de capim-Tifton. Um total de 32 ovinos, machos inteiros, da raça Santa Inês, com aproximadamente 180 dias de idade e peso médio de 32,0±1,6kg, foi estudado em delineamento inteiramente ao acaso, com quatro tratamentos e oito repetições. As medidas morfométricas avaliadas no epitélio ruminal (altura e área superficial da papila) foram significativamente afetadas (P<0,05) pela suplementação da dieta com palma forrageira, e esses efeitos mostraram tendências lineares crescentes. As avaliações do fluido ruminal também mostraram um efeito linear crescente significativo (P<0,05) para a amônia e um efeito quadrático para a proteína microbiana. A inclusão de palma forrageira na dieta de ovinos afeta a morfologia do epitélio ruminal, englobando a altura e a área da papila, e favorece o processo de absorção no rúmen. A dieta contendo níveis mais altos de palma forrageira levou à produção máxima de proteína microbiana. Esses resultados caracterizam a palma forrageira como uma alternativa viável para a alimentação de ovelhas durante períodos de seca, quando a fonte típica de alimento é escassa.(AU)

Lesions of the sheep reproductive system found in a slaughterhouse in the state of Bahia, Brazil / Lesões do sistema reprodutor em ovelhas de abatedouros frigoríficos no estado da Bahia

The present study aimed to evaluate and diagnose pathologies of the reproductive system of slaughtered sheep in slaughterhouses in the state of Bahia since there are few data on the subject as well as it is important to note the diagnosis of these diseases to apply appropriate control and prophylaxis measures. The research was carried out in slaughterhouses in the state of Bahia according to the "Serviço de Inspeção Federal" and "Serviço de Inspeção Estadual" for sheep slaughter. From July 2018 to February 2019, visits and monitoring of 1,072 slaughtered sheep were carried out. The animals came from 22 municipalities in the state of Bahia, aged from six to 18 months. During slaughter, the sheep reproductive systems were sectioned for evisceration and lesion collection. Additionally, epidemiological surveys related to origin, age, and race were obtained. For bacteriological examination, collections were performed with sterile scalpel slides and swabs in Stuart medium sterile tubes and refrigerated in a thermal box. For histopathological analysis, fragments were fixed in 10% formaldehyde and routinely processed for histology, stained with Hematoxylin and Eosin (HE). A study of the sheep's main pathological changes in slaughterhouses in the state of Bahia was carried out, in which 1.072 genital systems were evaluated, and 211 alterations were identified. The most affected reproductive organs were the ovaries (65.3%), followed by the uterus (29.4%) and uterine tubes (5.3%). In the ovaries, the most frequent lesion was a follicular cyst (34.1%); in the fallopian tubes, the cysts represented 3.3% of the lesions, and in the womb, endometritis was observed in 9% of the animals. Other pathologies identified in the ovaries were: luteinized cyst (2.3%); cystic granulosa cell tumor (0.5%); benign lesion (0.5%); agenesis unilateral (0.5%), in addition to other changes of little clinical significance, such as corpus luteum cysts (11.8%) and paraovarian cysts (15.6%). In the fallopian tubes, hydrosalpinx was observed (1%), as well as adenoma (0.5%), agenesis (0.5%), and cysts (3.3%). Uterine lesions included hydrometra (2.3%); Cystic Endometrial Hyperplasia (CEH), abscess, and pyometra (1.4% each); adenomyosis, womb sera petechiae, and total segmental aplasia (1% each); two pregnant uterus, in early pregnancy, presented pyometra (0.9%), however, no change was observed in the fetuses; and uterine polyp (0.5%). Ectopic pregnancy with fetal maceration (0.5%) was observed; vaginitis occurred in 0.5% of the animals, and endometrial melanosis in 8.5%. The high incidence of follicular cysts and endometritis are characterized as diseases that reduce the reproductive efficiency in herds, causing infertility and economic losses in production.(AU)

O objetivo do presente trabalho foi avaliar e diagnosticar alterações do sistema reprodutor de ovelhas abatidas em abatedouros frigoríficos no estado da Bahia. A pesquisa foi realizada em abatedouros frigoríficos do estado da Bahia com Serviços de Inspeção Federal e Estadual no abate de ovinos. No período de julho de 2018 a fevereiro de 2019 foram realizadas visitas e acompanhamento do abate de 1.072 ovelhas. Os animais eram provenientes de 22 municípios do estado da Bahia, com idade entre 6 a 18 meses. Durante o abate, na evisceração foram seccionados os sistemas reprodutores das ovelhas para avaliação e coleta das lesões. Adicionalmente foram obtidos inquéritos epidemiológicos relacionados à procedência, idade e raça. Para o exame bacteriológico, as coletas foram realizadas com lâminas de bisturi estéreis e swabs em tubos estéreis com meio Stuart e refrigeradas em caixa térmica. Para análise histopatológica, os fragmentos foram fixados em formol a 10% e processados de forma rotineira para histologia e corados pela hematoxilina e eosina (HE). Entre 1.072 sistemas genitais avaliados, identificou-se 211 alterações. Os órgãos do sistema reprodutor mais acometidos foram os ovários (65,3%), útero (29,4%) e tubas uterinas (5,3%). Nos ovários, a lesão mais frequente foi o cisto folicular (34,1%); no útero a endometrite (9%) e nas tubas uterinas, os cistos representaram (3,3%). Outras lesões identificadas nos ovários foram: cisto luteinizado (2,3%); tumor de células da granulosa (0,5%); adenoma (0,5%); agenesia unilateral (0,5%), além de outras alterações de pouco significado clínico, como cistos paraovarianos (15,6%) e corpo lúteo cístico (11,8%). Nas tubas uterinas observou-se, além dos cistos tubo-ovarianos (3,3%), hidrossalpinge (1%), adenoma (0,5%) e agenesia (0,5%). As lesões uterinas foram endometrite (9%), hidrometra (2,3%); hiperplasia endometrial cística, abscesso e piometra (1,4% cada); adenomiose, petéquias na serosa do útero e aplasia segmentar (1% cada); dois úteros gravídicos, em início de gestação, apresentaram piometra (0,9%), porém os fetos não apresentaram alterações; e pólipo uterino (0,5%). Observou-se uma gestação ectópica com maceração fetal (0,5%); a vaginite ocorreu em 0,5%, e melanose endometrial em 8,5%. Destaca-se a elevada incidência de cistos foliculares e endometrite que são doenças que reduzem a eficiência reprodutiva dos rebanhos, provocando infertilidade e perdas econômicas na produção.(AU)

B-mode and Doppler ultrasonographic assessment of uterine involution in ewes treated with two different doses of prostaglandinF2alfa

Background: Several studies consisted of postmortem evaluations and B-mode ultrasonography have been performed on ovine uterine involution. However, researches with Doppler ultrasonography are very limited in ewes. Doppler ultrasonography is a non-invasive method which provides information about vascular dynamics of the tissues which cannot be examined by B-mode ultrasonography. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effects of two different PGF2α doses on uterine measurements by real time B-mode ultrasonography; and on uterine artery hemodynamics by pulsed-wave Doppler analysis during postpartum uterine involution in ewes. Materials, Methods & Results: The study was conducted with 30 primiparous Kivircik ewes which lambed singleton without any complication. The ewes were randomly divided into three groups (n= 10 for each group). A single i.m. injection of 125 μg/sheep PGF2α , 75 μg/sheep PGF2α , and 1.0 mL/sheep sterile saline solution were administered to Group 1, 2, and 3, respectively. The day of parturition was considered as the first day of the study. Examinations were performed on days 1, 2, 3, 7, 14, 21 and 28. Diameters of previously gravid horn and caruncles were measured by real time B-mod ultrasonography. Presence of lochia was also noted. Uterine artery pulsatility index (PI), resistance index (RI), systolic/ diastolic ratio (S/D) values were measured by pulsed-wave Doppler ultrasonography. The one-way analysis of variance and Duncan’s test were used for statistical analysis. The mean previously gravid horn diameters of ewes were 8.30 ± 0.16 cm and 1.53 ± 0.07 cm on day 1 and day 28, respectively. Previously gravid horn and caruncle diameters had a similar declining pattern in all groups as involution period proceeded. Involution was mostly completed by day 21. More than 50% reduction in uterine size was achieved in prostaglandin administered groups by day 7. Caruncles were not able to be identified after the second week...

The effect of feed restriction on the fat profile of Santa Inês lamb meat

Consumers today are increasingly more demanding regarding their food, seeking healthier and better quality products, and in this context animal nutrition plays a key role. The meat composition can be altered by animal feed itself, being that lipid profile may directly contribute to consumer health, reducing the predisposition of developing cardiovascular diseases, main cause of mortality in the world. Thus, the aim of this study was to assess the effect of dietary feed restriction in Santa Inês lambs on their intramuscular, intermuscular, and subcutaneous fat profile, fat profile of the longissimus thoracis et lumborum (LTL) muscle, and the total meat lipids and cholesterol. Three groups of lambs were subjected to diets: without restriction (WR), and 30 and 60% feed restriction. Overall, stearic, palmitic, and oleic acids were the predominant and the lowest lipid and cholesterol levels were observed at the highest restriction level, presenting higher polyunsaturated:saturated (PUFA:SFA) and desirable (DFA) fatty acid ratios (p < 0.05). Lambs subjected to 60% dietary feed restriction had a better quality meat with lower lipid and cholesterol contents, and profile favorable for human health due the presence of unsaturated fatty acids, that is important parameter the market demands to meet the consumers expectations.(AU)

The effect of feed restriction on the fat profile of Santa Inês lamb meat

Consumers today are increasingly more demanding regarding their food, seeking healthier and better quality products, and in this context animal nutrition plays a key role. The meat composition can be altered by animal feed itself, being that lipid profile may directly contribute to consumer health, reducing the predisposition of developing cardiovascular diseases, main cause of mortality in the world. Thus, the aim of this study was to assess the effect of dietary feed restriction in Santa Inês lambs on their intramuscular, intermuscular, and subcutaneous fat profile, fat profile of the longissimus thoracis et lumborum (LTL) muscle, and the total meat lipids and cholesterol. Three groups of lambs were subjected to diets: without restriction (WR), and 30 and 60% feed restriction. Overall, stearic, palmitic, and oleic acids were the predominant and the lowest lipid and cholesterol levels were observed at the highest restriction level, presenting higher polyunsaturated:saturated (PUFA:SFA) and desirable (DFA) fatty acid ratios (p < 0.05). Lambs subjected to 60% dietary feed restriction had a better quality meat with lower lipid and cholesterol contents, and profile favorable for human health due the presence of unsaturated fatty acids, that is important parameter the market demands to meet the consumers’ expectations.

High proportion of cattle and sheep seropositive and renal carriers of Leptospira sp. under semiarid conditions / Alta proporção de bovinos e ovinos soropositivos e portadores renais de Leptospira sp. em condições semiáridas

The aims of this study were to perform serological and molecular detection of Leptospira sp. infection in cattle and sheep under semiarid conditions. Based on a preliminary study performed in our research group, we selected six rural properties showing a positivity ≥ 60% for Sejroe serogroup with titer ≥ 200 measured in serological tests from cattle. In the present study, blood and urine samples were collected from 99 females of reproductive age (51 cattle and 48 sheep) for serological diagnosis, molecular detection and Leptospira sp. attempt to strain recovery. Of the 99 analyzed animals 38.4% (38/99) were positively reactive at the serological tests. Of them, 49% (25/51) were cattle and 27.1% (13/48) sheep. The serogroups detected in cattle were Sejroe (36.8%), Hebdomadis (26.3%), Australis (10.5%), Djasiman (10.5%), Ballum (5.3%), Pomona (5.3%), and Cynopteri (5.3%) with titers of 100–800. In sheep, the reactive serogroups were Australis (27.3%), Ballum (27.3%), Djasiman (18.1%), Tarassovi (9.1%), Icterohaemorrhagiae (9.1%), and Cynopteri (9.1%) with titers of 100–400. Leptospiral DNA was detected in nine urine samples, including five cattle and four sheep. Property 1 showed the highest serological positivity frequencies for both cattle (70.6%) and sheep (70.6%). Similarly, the highest frequency of DNA detection was also found (eight samples, 89%). In this property, we observed the existence of consorted rearing of cattle and sheep with close coexistence between these species. In semiarid conditions, transmission among animals of the same species seems to be the main form of Leptospira sp. dissemination in cattle and sheep herds. However, the contribution of other domestic and wild animals cannot be discarded. The practice of consorted rearing of cattle and sheep and their close coexistence may facilitate the spread of the pathogen in rural properties.(AU)

Os objetivos deste estudo foram realizar detecção sorológica e molecular da infecção por Leptospira sp. em bovinos e ovinos em condições semiáridas. Com base em estudo preliminar realizado em nosso grupo de pesquisa, foram selecionadas seis propriedades rurais com soropositividade ≥ 60% para o sorogrupo Sejroe com título ≥ 200 em bovinos. No presente estudo, amostras de sangue e urina foram coletadas de 99 fêmeas em idade reprodutiva (51 bovinos e 48 ovinos) para diagnóstico sorológico, detecção molecular e tentativa de recuperação de estirpesde Leptospira sp. Dos 99 animais analisados, 38,4% (38/99) foram sororeativos nos testes sorológicos. Destes, 49% (25/51) eram bovinos e 27,1% (13/48) ovinos. Os sorogrupos detectados em bovinos foram Sejroe (36,8%), Hebdomadis (26,3%), Australis (10,5%), Djasiman (10,5%), Ballum (5,3%), Pomona (5,3%) e Cynopteri (5,3%) com títulos de 100 a 800. Nos ovinos, os sorogrupos reativos foram Australis (27,3%), Ballum (27,3%), Djasiman (18,1%), Tarassovi (9,1%), Icterohaemorrhagiae (9,1%) e Cynopteri (9,1%) com títulos de 100-400. O DNA leptospiral foi detectado em nove amostras de urina, incluindo cinco bovinos e quatro ovinos. A propriedade 1 apresentou as maiores frequências de positividade sorológica para bovinos (70,6%) e ovinos (70,6%). Da mesma forma, a maior frequência de detecção de DNA também foi encontrada (oito amostras, 89%). Nesta propriedade observou-se a existência de criação consorciada de bovinos e ovinos com estreita convivência entre estas espécies. Em condições semiáridas, a transmissão entre animais da mesma espécie parece ser a principal forma de disseminação de Leptospira sp. em rebanhos bovinos e ovinos. No entanto, a contribuição de outros animais domésticos e selvagens não pode ser descartada. A prática de criação consorciada de bovinos e ovinos e sua estreita convivência podem facilitar a disseminação do patógeno em propriedades rurais.(AU)