Relationship between body weight and scrotal circumference in growing Pelibuey sheep raised under tropical conditions / Relação entre o peso corporal e a circunferência escrotal em ovinos Pelibuey em crescimento criados em condições tropicais

The body weight (BW) of an animal is a vital economic trait that might help in decision-making in the handling of animals. The objective of the present study was to develop equations for the prediction of BW in Pelibuey sheep using scrotal circumference (SC). The BW (23.40 ± 6.96 kg) and SC (20.25 ± 6.19 cm) have been recorded in 405 male Pelibuey at the Southeastern Center for Ovine Integration, Mexico. Linear, logarithmic, quadratic, exponential, cubic, and power regression models were used for data analysis. Pearson correlation (R), Coefficient of determination (R2), Adjusted coefficient of determination (Adj.R2) Root mean square error (RMSE), Akaike information criterion (AIC), and Bayesian information criterion (BIC) were used to select the best model. Power regression model showed the highest R (0.93), R2 (0.86), Adj.R2 (0.86) and lowest RMSE (0.02), AIC (-989.44) and BIC (-981.44). The current study suggests that SC might be used as the only predictor for BW of growing Pelibuey sheep raised under tropical conditions.

O peso corporal (PC) do animal é uma característica econômica importante, que pode auxiliar na tomada de decisões no manejo dos animais. O objetivo do presente estudo foi desenvolver equações para a predição do PC em ovinos Pelibuey por meio da circunferência escrotal (CE). O PC (23,40±6,96kg) e a CE (20,25±6,19cm) foram registrados em 405 ovinos machos da raça Pelibuey no Centro de Integração Ovina da Região Sudeste do México. Os modelos lineares, logarítmicos, quadráticos, exponenciais, cúbicos e de regressão de potência foram utilizados para a análise dos dados. A correlação de Pearson (R), o coeficiente de determinação (R2), o coeficiente de determinação ajustado (Adj.R2), o erro do quadrado médio (EQM), o critério de informação de Akaike (AIC) e o critério de informação bayesiano (BIC) foram usados para selecionar o melhor modelo. O modelo de regressão de potência apresentou maiores R (0,93), R2 (0,86), Adj.R2 (0,86) e menores EQM (0,02), AIC (-989,44) e BIC (-981,44). O estudo atual sugere que a CE pode ser usada como um único preditor para o PC de ovinos Pelibuey em crescimento criadas em condições tropicais.

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)

Gestational follow-up in ewes - placentome size and fecal progesterone metabolite levels

Background: Transabdominal ultrasonography in sheep allows real-time diagnosis and monitoring of pregnancy as well as measurement of the size of placentomes, which are structures that connect the fetal and maternal portions, that increase as pregnancy progresses. Progesterone is involved in the maintenance of gestation, with high levels noted during pregnancy. In this context, it is hypothesized that measurements of placentome and progesterone could help in monitoring pregnancy in sheep. Therefore, the main objectives of this study included evaluating whether placentome size and fecal progesterone levels are associated with gestational age in ewes and whether measurement of the placentome and progesterone could be used as an estimate of gestational age. Materials, Methods & Results: A total of 63 pregnant adult (between 2 and 5 years of age) Santa Inês ewes were monitored in the city of Boa Vista, Roraima. All ewes were kept in the paddock with Panicum maximun cv. tanzania, mineral salt, and water ad libitum, supplemented with 200 g/animal/day of soybean residue. Ewes were subjected to ultrasonography every 21 days from day 42 of pregancy until term to monitor pregnancy. Ultrasonography was performed using a linear probe to measure the placentome, including length × width in centimeters. Also every 21 days, fecal samples were collected for measurement of progesterone level. Feces were collected directly from the rectal ampulla, stored individually in plastic bags, and frozen at -20ºC until processing. In the laboratory, these feces samples were freeze-dried and subjected to hormonal extraction with 80% methanol. Then, the levels of fecal progesterone metabolites were measured by enzyme immunoassay. Data was tabulated and submitted to statistical analyses, including descriptive stastistic, correlation, KruskalWallis test and Tukey's test. The levels of fecal progesterone metabolites increased significantly between the 3rd and 4th months of pregnancy, with a decrease close to delivery. Placentome size increased significantly between the 2nd and 3rd months of pregnancy. Placentome measurements did not correlate with progesterone levels and showed a weak correlation with gestational age. Therefore, we concluded that the measurements of placentome size and a single evaluation of fecal progesterone metabolites were not considered efficient methods for estimating gestational age. Discussion: Measurement of progesterone level in fecal samples is a non-invasive hormone monitoring method that provides values like that of blood levels and is less stressful for the animals at the time of sample collection. The wide physiological variation makes it difficult or even useless to use fecal progesterone, when is measured only once per animal, as an indicator of the presence of pregnancy. Despite this limitation, serial sampling is useful for monitoring of hormones during the pregnancy period and is an important tool for research purposes. Placentome size measurements correlated weakly with gestational age and did not correlate with progesterone level. Thus, the presence of placentomes is indicative of the presence of pregnancy but was considered inefficient for determining gestational age in sheep.

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.

Histologic changes in liver tissue of sheep fed spineless cactus resistant to Dactylopius opuntiae / Alterações histológicas no tecido hepático de ovinos alimentados com palma forrageira resistente a Dactylopius opuntiae

This study aimed to assess the effects of diets containing spineless cactus genotypes resistant to carmine cochineal insect (Dactylopius opuntiae) on the liver condition of sheep. Thirty-six non-castrated Santa Inês male sheep (six months of age and average initial body weight of 22.0 ± 2.9 kg) were assigned to a completely randomized design, with three treatments and 12 replicates. The animals were fed a diet with Tifton hay as exclusive roughage (control) and two more diets in which the hay was partially replaced by 'Miúda' or 'Orelha de Elefante Mexicana' (OEM.) spineless cactus. The animals were randomly slaughtered at 86 days after 16-h solid fast. The use of spineless cactus, regardless of genotype, increased the liver weight and caused inflammatory processes and necrosis on the liver parenchyma. Spineless cactus in diets for sheep confined for 86 days, despite causing liver tissue damage, such as inflammation and death process of hepatocytes, does not compromise weight gain.

Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar os efeitos de dietas contendo genótipos de palma forrageira resistentes ao inseto cochonilha do carmim (Dactylopius opuntiae) sobre a condição hepática de ovinos. Trinta e seis ovinos machos Santa Inês não castrados (seis meses de idade e peso corporal inicial médio de 22,0 ± 2,9 kg) foram distribuídos em delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com três tratamentos e 12 repetições. Os animais foram alimentados com uma dieta com feno de Tifton como volumoso exclusivo (controle) e mais duas dietas em que o feno foi parcialmente substituído por palma forrageira 'Miúda' ou 'Orelha de Elefante Mexicana' (OEM.). Os animais foram abatidos aleatoriamente aos 86 dias após jejum de sólidos por 16 horas. O uso de palma forrageira, independente do genótipo, aumentou o peso do fígado e causou processos inflamatórios e necrose no parênquima hepático. A palma forrageira em dietas para ovinos confinados por 86 dias, apesar de causar danos ao tecido hepático, como inflamação e processo de morte dos hepatócitos, não compromete o ganho de peso.

Sheep corneal endothelium morphology - evaluation with trypan blue and alizarin red

Background: The endothelium is a layer fundamental to maintaining corneal transparency. In ophthalmology, sheep eyes have been used as a model in research related to corneal transplantation. Different techniques have been used to evaluate the corneal endothelium. Concerning vital dyes, corneal endothelial cell analyses have not yet been studied in ovines. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the morphology of endothelial cells from different regions of the cornea of sheep after staining with alizarin red and trypan blue using an optical microscope. Materials, Methods & Results: Twenty healthy eyes of 10 male sheep obtained from a licensed commercial slaughterhouse were studied. The study was approved by the Research Committee of the Faculty of Veterinary at UFRGS and followed the ethical standards of the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO). Immediately after the slaughter, the eyes were enucleated and underwent eye examination. The corneal endothelium was stained with trypan blue and alizarin red and examined and photographed using an optical microscope. The central, superior, inferior, nasal and temporal areas of the cornea were evaluated for cell morphology. Data were compared by t-tests. Differences were considered statistically significant at P < 0.05. Immediately after staining the corneal endothelium, it was possible to examine with an optical microscope, obtain images and analyse the shape of endothelial cells from all regions of the sheep cornea. Polygonal, uniform and continuous cells were observed in all samples studied. Considering all the corneas analysed, cells with 6 sides (75.11%), 5 sides (12.76%) and 4 sides (12.12%) were found. In the central region of the cornea 75.91% of cells with 6 sides, 12.6% of cells with 5 sides and 11.48% with 7 sides were found. In the superior region of the cornea 76.07% of cells with 6 sides, 13.25% with 5 sides and 10.68% with 7 sides were found. In the lower region were found 74.72% of cells with 6 sides, 13% with 5 sides and 12.27% with 7 sides. In the temporal region, 74.14% were 6-sided cells, 11.42% had 5 sides, and 14.43% had 7 sides. Furthermore, in the nasal region, 74.72% of the cells had 6 sides, 13.54% had 5 sides, and 11.73% had 7 sides. No significant differences were found between cell morphology in all corneal regions evaluated. In addition, no significant difference was found when comparing the right eye with the left eye. Discussion: Different methods are used for the analysis of corneal endothelium. For ex vivo research optical microscopy after endothelial staining is an alternative low-cost technique that allows the analysis of all regions of the cornea. Quantitative analyses must characterise the endothelial parameters of the different species. The analysis of the morphology of corneal endothelium with an optic microscope after staining with alizarin red has been described as an effective, rapid and cost-efficient method, since this dye blends with the borated cells, allowing identification. In the present study, using optical microscopy and coloration with alizarin red it was possible to explore and obtain images of the ovine endothelium of all regions of the cornea. In the current study, the endothelium had a predominance of cells will 6 sides in all regions studied. This study allowed us to obtain images of the endothelium as well as quantitative data on the morphology of the different regions of the sheep cornea. This study demonstrated that morphology did not differ between the central and peripheral regions. The findings of this study represent a further source of reproducible data that should be considered when using sheep cornea as ex vivo model for experimental research.

O efeito de probióticos fúngicos adicionados a uma dieta rica em grãos no trato gastrointestinal de ovinos / The effect of fungal probiotics added to a high-grain diet on the gastrointestinal tract of sheep

This study aimed to evaluate the microbiological and physicochemical characteristics of the ruminal fluid and histological characteristics of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) of sheep on a high-grain diet containing the probiotic fungi Aspergillus terreus and Rhizomucor spp. The study included four treatment groups (without probiotic, with Rhizomucor spp., with Aspergillus terreus, and with a mixture of both fungi), and two types of corn (ground/whole), in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) arranged in 4 x 2 factorial design. Santa Inês x Dorper lambs were housed in eight pens with five lambs each for 75 days. Rumen fluid was collected to study the rumen microbiological profile, macroscopic characteristics, ammonia nitrogen concentration, and microbiological activity. In addition, GIT samples were taken for histological analysis. Fluid analyses showed that the animals presented a low acidosis index. The samples presented a predominantly aromatic odor and blackish-brown color, indicating a neutral pH and high microbial activity. The rumen pH differed (P < 0.05) according to the level of processed corn consumed, being higher for ground grain corn (GGC). There was no difference for any of the microbiological communities analyzed (P > 0.05) (Lac+ and Lac- bacteria, fungi, yeasts, and protozoa). Six genera of facultative anaerobic fungi were identified in 15 observations. Cladosporium spp. was the most prevalent genus (46.66%), followed by Aspergillus spp. (26,66%). The width of the base of rumen papillae showed significant correlation being greater for GCG (P < 0.05) with Rhizomucor and for the control (P < 0.05). The rumen fluid of sheep on a high-grain diet with added Aspergillus terreus and Rhizomucor spp. showed no microbiological and physicochemical changes.

Objetivou-se avaliar as características microbiológicas e físico-químicas do fluido ruminal e histológicas do trato gástrico intestinal (TGI) de ovinos sob dieta de alto grão com probiótico fungos Aspergillus terreus e/ou Rhizomucor spp. Analisou-se quatro probióticos (sem inóculos, com Rhizomucor spp., com Aspergillus terreus e com mistura dos dois fungos) e dois processamentos de milho (moído/inteiro), em fatorial 4x2 em em Delineamento Inteiramente Casualizados (DIC). Borregos Santa Inês/Dorper foram alojados em oito baias com cinco borregos em cada, durante 75 dias. Coletou-se fluido ruminal para o estudo do perfil microbiológico do rúmen, da característica macroscópica, da concentração de nitrogênio amoniacal e da atividade microbiológica, além dos fragmentos do TGI para análises histológicas. Pelas análises dos fluidos, os animais apresentaram baixo índice de acidose. O odor aromático e a cor castanho-enegrecido predominaram, o que caracteriza ambiente com pH neutro. As amostras do fluido apresentaram alta atividade microbiana. O pH ruminal diferenciou-se (P<0,05) quanto ao tipo de processamento, sendo maior para milho grão moído (MGM). Não houve diferença para nenhuma das comunidades microbiológicas analisadas (P>0,05) (bactérias Lac+ e Lac-, fungos, leveduras e protozoários). Seis gêneros de fungos anaeróbicos facultativos foram identificados num total de 15 observações. O Cladosporium spp. foi o gênero mais prevalente (46,66%), seguido do Aspergillus spp. (26,66%). A largura da base das papilas ruminais apresentou interação significativa, sendo maior para MGM (P<0,05) com Rhizomucor e o controle (P<0,05). O fluido ruminal de ovinos sob dieta de alto concentrado de grão com adição dos fungos Aspergillus terreus e Rhizomucor spp. não tiveram afetadas as características microbiológicas e físico-químicas.

Hemoperitoneum in a cow with lumbar muscle hemangiosarcoma

Background: Hemangiosarcoma is a malignant neoplasm of endothelial cells with an infiltrative growth pattern. Hemangiosarcomas are frequently reported in canines and rare in felines, sheep, goats, swine, horses and cattle. Few cases of hemangiosarcoma were reported in cattle. In the present report, we describe the clinicopathological findings of a bovine muscle hemangiosarcoma. Case: A 6-year-old, Girolando cow from the Dairy Cattle Sector of the Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRRJ), Seropédica, presented sternal decubitus. Clinical signs were markedly pale mucous membranes, moderate dehydration, respiratory distress, and increased heart rate. The hematological examination revealed intense regenerative anemia. Due to the worsening of the clinical condition, the cow was submitted to euthanasia. The necropsy and collection of various fragments of organs were performed, which were sent to the "Setor de Anatomia Patológica" (SAP-UFRRJ). Tissues were fixed in 10 % buffered formalin, routinely processed for histology and stained with Hematoxylin and Eosin (HE). The external mucous membranes were markedly pale. Multifocal areas of 1.5 x 1.0 cm, irregular and dark red were observed dissecting the quadratus lumborum muscle (hemangiosarcoma) fibers. These neoplasms were associated with an extensive cruoric clot adhered to the muscle fibers. The extensive, red, friable mass measured approximately 76 x 55 x 20 cm on the serous surfaces of the organs of the peritoneal cavity (hemoperitoneum). The spleen was moderately reduced. The bone marrow was markedly pale. Histologically, it was observed that there was an extensive proliferation of endothelial cells in the quadratus lumbar muscle mass dissecting the epimysium and perimysium. Endothelial cells had moderate pleomorphism, organized in vascular channels and forming multifocally solid areas with a significant amount of eosinophilic fibrillar material (fibrin). Sections of muscle neoplasm were subjected to immunohistochemistry with anti-von Willebrand factor primary antibody, which showed a multifocal moderate cytoplasmic immunolabeling of neoplastic endothelial cells. Discussion: There are few reports of striated muscle hemangiosarcoma in cattle. Muscular hemangiosarcomas were reported in a 4-month-old calf in the left cervical trapezius muscle and a 6-year-old Holstein cow with left pelvic limb mass lateral and distal to the knee. Some reports presented hemangiosarcoma in the iliopsoas muscle, left cervical trapezius muscle, pelvic limb muscles and right cervical muscle of the bovine. In the presented report, hemoperitoneum occurred as a result of hemorrhages from muscle hemangiosarcoma. Other studies have demonstrated cavity hemorrhages in joint, pelvic, pleural and cranial cavities associated with hemangiosarcoma. Hemangiosarcoma with regenerative anemia must be distinguished from other diseases that cause anemia. The main differential diagnoses of bovine with anemia are vena cava syndrome, coumarin derivatives poisoning, acute poisoning by Pteridium spp., tick fever, anaplasmosis, babesiosis and trypanosomiasis. Hemangiosarcoma should be differentiated from other lesions as hemangioma, vascular tumor of lymphatic endothelium and perivascular wall tumors. Cases with poorly differentiated morphology should be submitted for immunohistochemistry. In the present hemangiosarcoma case, we have used the von Willebrand factor for immunohistochemistry diagnosis. Expression of angiogenic growth factors such as CD31, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and angiopoietin-1 (Ang-1) have also been used in the diagnosis of vascular proliferation lesions. Hemangiosarcoma in cattle should be included mainly in the differential diagnosis of diseases that cause acute anemia in cattle.

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.

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.(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.

Anatomical and morphometric study of goat middle ear ossicles (Capra aegagrus hircus) / [Estudo anatômico e morfométrico dos ossículos da orelha média de caprinos (Capra aegagrus hircus)]

The social and economic roles of goat farming in Northeastern Brazil, allied to the fact that the use of goat middle ear ossicles for research and human ear surgery training has not yet been proposed, justify the study of their applicability as an experimental model. The middle ears of 19 goats (Capra aegagrus hircus) from the bone collection of the Laboratory and Didactic Anatomy Museum of Domestic and Wild Animals of the Federal University of Vale do São Francisco (UNIVASF) were dissected. The malleus, incus, and stapes were evaluated regarding their macroscopic morphology and biometry (length, width, and height). Ossicle morphology was similar to sheep, human, and bovine morphology. The malleus was 1.3 times heavier and 2.2 times longer than the incus, and 9.0 times heavier and 3.7 times longer than the stapes. The size relationship was positive between the stapes and the malleus and negative between the stapes and the incus. It is concluded that the middle ear size and the anatomical similarities with human ossicles make goats a useful model for experimental scientific studies, reconstructive surgery practice of the ossicular chain, and human ear surgery training.(AU)

Tanto o papel social quanto o econômico da caprinocultura na região Nordeste do Brasil, somados ao fato de que o uso de ossículos da orelha média de caprinos para estudos e treinamento cirúrgico otológico humano ainda não foi proposto, justificam o estudo de sua aplicabilidade como modelo experimental. Foram dissecadas as orelhas médias de 19 caprinos (Capra aegagrus hircus), provenientes do ossuário do Laboratório e Museu Didático de Anatomia dos Animais Domésticos e Silvestres - Universidade Federal do Vale do São Francisco. Martelos, bigornas e estribos tiveram a morfologia macroscópica e a biometria (comprimento, largura e altura) avaliadas. A morfologia dos ossículos assemelhou-se a de ovinos, humanos e bovinos. O martelo foi 1,3 vez mais pesado e 2,2 vezes mais comprido que a bigorna e 9,0 vezes mais pesado e 3,7 vezes mais comprido que o estribo. A relação de tamanho entre o estribo e o martelo foi positiva, e entre o estribo e a bigorna negativa. Conclui-se que o tamanho da orelha média e as semelhanças anatômicas com os ossículos humanos tornam os caprinos um modelo útil para estudos científicos experimentais, prática cirúrgica reconstrutiva da cadeia ossicular e treinamento cirúrgico otológico humano.(AU)

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.

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)

Estudo clínico e anatomopatológico da urolitíase em cordeiros confinados submetidos à dieta com diferentes concentrações de fósforo / Clinical and anatomopathological study of urolithiasis in feedlot lambs subjected to diets with different phosphorus concentrations

A urolitíase obstrutiva é frequente na ovinocultura e possui etiologia multifatorial, porém o manejo nutricional inadequado é considerado o mais relevante para sua ocorrência. Os objetivos deste estudo foram verificar a influência de duas dietas com diferentes proporções e concentrações de cálcio (Ca) e fósforo (P) no desenvolvimento da urolitíase obstrutiva, e descrever os achados clínicos e anatomopatológicos do sistema urinário de ovinos. Utilizaram-se 30 cordeiros, machos, mestiços das raças Santa Inês e Ile de France, que foram aleatoriamente distribuídos em dois grupos: Grupo 1 (G1, n=15) - Ca:P de 1,9:1 e 0,42% de P; Grupo 2 (G2, n=15) - Ca:P de 1,5:1 e 0,65% de P. As dietas foram fornecidas por 90 dias consecutivos com feno de Coast-cross, farelo de soja, trigo e milho, e água ad libitum. Após o diagnóstico da doença, os cordeiros foram submetidos ao tratamento clínico e cirúrgico, quando necessário. A urolitíase foi detectada em 36,7% (11/30) dos cordeiros, sendo 26,7% assintomáticos e 10% (3/30) apresentaram obstrução uretral. Um cordeiro foi desobstruído após amputação do processo uretral e sondagem uretral; outro foi a óbito por ruptura vesical e uroperitôneo; outro foi sacrificado após uretrostomia perineal e cistostomia sem sucesso. Em ambos os grupos, as alterações histopatológicas renais mais frequentes foram congestão vascular, dilatação e degeneração tubular. A presença de proteínas na luz tubular foi mais pronunciada no G2. As dietas fornecidas, ricas em concentrado, embora com relação Ca:P adequadas, provocaram a calculogênese, o que comprovou que o excesso de minerais e pouca quantidade de volumoso podem causar a enfermidade no rebanho.

Obstructive urolithiasis is common in farmed sheep and has a multifactorial etiology, but inadequate nutritional management is considered the most relevant condition for its occurrence. The objectives of this study were to verify the influence of two diets with different concentrations of calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (P) on the development of obstructive urolithiasis, and to describe the clinical and anatomopathological findings of the urinary system in sheep. Thirty male crossbred Santa Inês and Ile de France lambs were randomly distributed into two groups: Group 1 (G1, n = 15) - Ca: 1.9:1 P and 0.42% P; Group 2 (G2, n = 15) - Ca: P 1.5:1 and 0.65% P. The diets consisting of Coast-cross hay, soybean meal, wheat, and corn were provided for 90 consecutive days with water ad libitum. After the diagnosis of the disease, the lambs were subjected to clinical and surgical treatment, when necessary. Urolithiasis was detected in 36.7% (11/30) of lambs, 26.7% were asymptomatic and 10% (3/30) had urethral obstruction. A lamb was unobstructed after amputation of the urethral process and urethral catheterization, one died of bladder and uroperitoneum rupture, and another was sacrificed after the failure of perineal urethrostomy and cystostomy. The most frequent renal histopathological changes were vascular congestion, dilation, and tubular degeneration. Proteins in the tubular lumen were more pronounced in G2. The diets were rich in concentrate and had adequate Ca:P ratios, but caused calculogenesis, showing that excess minerals and a small amount of roughage can cause disease in the herd.

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.

Las interacciones socio-sexuales, alternativa para manipular la reproducción de los pequeños rumiantes / Socio-sexual interactions, an alternative to manipulate the reproduction of small ruminants

La estacionalidad de la reproducción es una característica de la mayoría de las razas caprinas y ovinas de latitudes subtropicales. Las hembras presentan anovulación y disminución de las concentraciones plasmáticas de LH en primavera y verano, mientras que los machos disminuyen drásticamente los niveles plasmáticos de testosterona, la producción espermática y el comportamiento sexual en invierno y primavera. Esta estacionalidad es sincronizada principalmente por las variaciones naturales del fotoperiodo. Sin embargo, las interacciones socio-sexuales entre machos y hembras permiten modificar esta estacionalidad. Así, la introducción de machos en grupos de hembras en anestro estacional estimulan las actividades endocrina y reproductiva de las hembras, através del fonómeno conocido como "efecto macho". La respuesta de las hembras al efecto macho varía con la intensidad del comportamiento sexual desplegado por los machos. Por ello, los machos sexualmente activos son más eficaces que los machos en reposo sexual para estimula la ovulación de las hembras. Además, la presencia continua de los machos sexualmente activos evita la anovulación estacional, así como la disminución estacional de las concentraciones plasmáticas de LH en hembras ovariectomizadas portadoras de implantes subcutáneos que liberan estradiol. En conjunto, estos hallazgos indican que los machos cabríos y carneros sexualmente activos son una alternativa para manipular la estacionalidad reproductiva de las hembras durante el anestro estacional, y/o evitar la anovulación estacional. Además, considerando las demandas sociales para reducir o eliminar los tratamientos hormonales en la producción animal, la asociación del fotoperiodo y las interacciones socio-sexuales entre machos y hembras constituye una alternativa sustentable para la manipulación de la actividad reproductiva de los pequeños rumiantes.