Behavior of domestic chickens: insights from a narrative review / Comportamento de galinhas domésticas: percepções de uma revisão narrativa

The intensification of poultry production systems has brought major changes in domestic fowls' physical and social environment. The management of these birds has received considerable attention in recent years due to new demands from consumers, especially those related to welfare. Behavior is the way that animals respond to the different stimuli they encounter in their environment. The behavioral expressions of poultry and the application of this knowledge in the care of the stock plays an important part in the maximization of the production efficiency of the poultry chain. Thus, defining ethical limits and guidelines for poultry production is essential to promote the development of new production practices, and by that ensure quality and productivity without putting bird welfare at risk. This review is based on scientific literature and highlights the main behavioral expressions of domestic chickens, including social, feeding, and reproductive expressions, in addition to stereotypes and strategies for social adaptation. Thus, it will promote to the reader and for the scientific community a better understanding about subjects that are not frequently discussed and by that help behavioral analyzes.

A intensificação do sistema de produção avícola trouxe profundas mudanças no ambiente físico e social das aves domésticas. O manejo dessas aves tem recebido considerável atenção nos últimos anos devido às novas demandas por parte dos consumidores, principalmente aquelas relacionadas ao bem-estar. O comportamento é a maneira como os animais respondem aos diferentes estímulos que encontram em seu ambiente. As expressões comportamentais das aves domésticas e a aplicação desse conhecimento no cuidado dos animais desempenha um papel importante na maximização da eficiência de produção da cadeia avícola. Assim, definir limites éticos e diretrizes para a produção avícola é fundamental para fomentar o desenvolvimento de novas práticas produtivas, e assim garantir qualidade e produtividade sem colocar em risco o bem-estar dos animais. Esta revisão destacará as principais expressões comportamentais das aves domésticas, dentre elas as expressões sociais, alimentares, reprodutivas, além de estereotipias, e identificará as estratégias de adaptação social. Assim, promovera ao leitor e a comunidade científica uma melhor compreensão de assuntos pouco discutidos para assim auxiliar em análises comportamentais.

Heat tolerance level in dairy herds: a review on coping strategies to heat stress and ways of measuring heat tolerance

Tolerance to heat stress is worth noting considering the constant increase in the ambient temperature and high productivity that elevates the likelihood of heat stress in the dairy herd. Besides exposure to hot temperatures, increase in performance of dairy cows is positively related to heat loadwhich results in heat stress. This necessitates the need to incorporate heat tolerance in the breeding objectives. Measuring heat tolerance is still a challenge and might becomplex to assess in the dairy herd. Through regress ingphenotypic performance of temperature–humidity index(THI), heat tolerance can be assessed. However, the use of the same THI across region might not be effective due to the differences with in and among breeds in either same ordifferent herds. The reason being the differing cows (Bostaurus) adaptive and productive response to increasing THI value across different areas. There is vast information about the THI values from the tropics and the temperate regions, however, there is still a gap for THI values for semi and aridplaces under the pasture-based system. Understanding the coping strategies by the dairy cow to heat stress is important. Various studies have out lined much on the coping strategies but there is still a need to relate the homeostatic and acclimation responses to tolerance to heat stress. This review focusses on discussing the heat stress coping strategies in relation to heat stress tolerance and the ways of assessment ina dairy herd. (AU)

Heat tolerance level in dairy herds: a review on coping strategies to heat stress and ways of measuring heat tolerance

Tolerance to heat stress is worth noting considering the constant increase in the ambient temperature and high productivity that elevates the likelihood of heat stress in the dairy herd. Besides exposure to hot temperatures, increase in performance of dairy cows is positively related to heat loadwhich results in heat stress. This necessitates the need to incorporate heat tolerance in the breeding objectives. Measuring heat tolerance is still a challenge and might becomplex to assess in the dairy herd. Through regress ingphenotypic performance of temperature–humidity index(THI), heat tolerance can be assessed. However, the use of the same THI across region might not be effective due to the differences with in and among breeds in either same ordifferent herds. The reason being the differing cow’s (Bostaurus) adaptive and productive response to increasing THI value across different areas. There is vast information about the THI values from the tropics and the temperate regions, however, there is still a gap for THI values for semi and aridplaces under the pasture-based system. Understanding the coping strategies by the dairy cow to heat stress is important. Various studies have out lined much on the coping strategies but there is still a need to relate the homeostatic and acclimation responses to tolerance to heat stress. This review focusses on discussing the heat stress coping strategies in relation to heat stress tolerance and the ways of assessment ina dairy herd.

Strategies of Environmental Enrichment for ocelot Leopardus pardalis (Carnivora, Felidae) at Parque Estadual Dois Irmãos: a study case in Brazil

O enriquecimento ambiental é utilizado por zoológicos para estimular a interação dos animais cativos com o ambiente para elevar o bem-estar e diversificar as oportunidades comportamentais. Este estudo de caso investigou o efeito do enriquecimento ambiental no orçamento de atividades do macho de jaguatirica adulto cativo no Parque Estadual Dois Irmãos, Brasil. O experimento foi realizado de agosto de 2011 a junho de 2012 e foi dividido em três fases denominadas: Pré-enriquecimento, Enriquecimento, e Pós-enriquecimento. Os métodos de análise utilizados foram Animal-focal e Ad libitum. As observações sugerem um aumento do comportamento de locomoção e uma significante redução nas estereotipias do animal. As técnicas de enriquecimento aplicadas nesse estudo provaram ser efetivas para a redução das estereotipias e aumento do repertório comportamental da espécie no cativeiro.

Environmental enrichment is used by zoos to stimulate the interaction of captive animals with the environment, to elevate welfare and diversifying behavioral opportunities. This case study investigated the effect of environmental enrichment on the behavioral repertoire of an ocelot adult male captive at Parque Estadual Dois Irmãos, Brazil. The experiment was carried out from August 2011 to June 2012 and it was divided into three phases called: Pre-enrichment, Enrichment,and Post-Enrichment. The sampling methods used were Focal-animal and ad libitum. The observations suggested an increase of the locomotion behavior and a significant decrease in stereotypic behaviors of the animal. The techniques of enrichment applied in this study were effective for the reduction of stereotypies and increase the behavioral repertoire of the species in captivity.

Strategies of Environmental Enrichment for ocelot Leopardus pardalis (Carnivora, Felidae) at Parque Estadual Dois Irmãos: a study case in Brazil

O enriquecimento ambiental é utilizado por zoológicos para estimular a interação dos animais cativos com o ambiente para elevar o bem-estar e diversificar as oportunidades comportamentais. Este estudo de caso investigou o efeito do enriquecimento ambiental no orçamento de atividades do macho de jaguatirica adulto cativo no Parque Estadual Dois Irmãos, Brasil. O experimento foi realizado de agosto de 2011 a junho de 2012 e foi dividido em três fases denominadas: Pré-enriquecimento, Enriquecimento, e Pós-enriquecimento. Os métodos de análise utilizados foram Animal-focal e Ad libitum. As observações sugerem um aumento do comportamento de locomoção e uma significante redução nas estereotipias do animal. As técnicas de enriquecimento aplicadas nesse estudo provaram ser efetivas para a redução das estereotipias e aumento do repertório comportamental da espécie no cativeiro.(AU)

Environmental enrichment is used by zoos to stimulate the interaction of captive animals with the environment, to elevate welfare and diversifying behavioral opportunities. This case study investigated the effect of environmental enrichment on the behavioral repertoire of an ocelot adult male captive at Parque Estadual Dois Irmãos, Brazil. The experiment was carried out from August 2011 to June 2012 and it was divided into three phases called: Pre-enrichment, Enrichment,and Post-Enrichment. The sampling methods used were Focal-animal and ad libitum. The observations suggested an increase of the locomotion behavior and a significant decrease in stereotypic behaviors of the animal. The techniques of enrichment applied in this study were effective for the reduction of stereotypies and increase the behavioral repertoire of the species in captivity.(AU)

Enriquecimento Ambiental para felinos em cativeiro: classificação de técnicas, desafios e futuras direções / Environmental Enrichment for felines in captivity: classification of techniques, challenges and future directions

As práticas de enriquecimento ambiental visam a melhoria das condições de bem-estar dos animais mantidos em ambientes restritos, sejam estes de laboratório, produção, silvestres ou os de companhia. A presente revisão aborda desde o aspecto histórico das práticas de enriquecimento, os avanços e crescimento científico, suas classificações e aplicações de técnicas para felinos domésticos e silvestres, assim como expõe questões que ainda necessitam de investigação e melhor abordagem para atingir e proporcionar de maneira mais completa e efetiva, melhores condições de bem-estar para os animais em cativeiro.

Environmental enrichment practices aim to improve the welfare conditions of animals housed in restricted environments (e.g. in the laboratory, breeding programmes, in captivity in zoos/sanctuaries or as pets). The present review examines the historical aspects of enrichment practices, scientific advances and the growth of interest and recent research.The different classifications of enrichments, as well as the application of techniques for domestic and wild cats are considered.  This review identifies what research still needs to be done, to provide more complete and effective welfare conditions for animals.

Enriquecimento Ambiental para felinos em cativeiro: classificação de técnicas, desafios e futuras direções / Environmental Enrichment for felines in captivity: classification of techniques, challenges and future directions

As práticas de enriquecimento ambiental visam a melhoria das condições de bem-estar dos animais mantidos em ambientes restritos, sejam estes de laboratório, produção, silvestres ou os de companhia. A presente revisão aborda desde o aspecto histórico das práticas de enriquecimento, os avanços e crescimento científico, suas classificações e aplicações de técnicas para felinos domésticos e silvestres, assim como expõe questões que ainda necessitam de investigação e melhor abordagem para atingir e proporcionar de maneira mais completa e efetiva, melhores condições de bem-estar para os animais em cativeiro.(AU)

Environmental enrichment practices aim to improve the welfare conditions of animals housed in restricted environments (e.g. in the laboratory, breeding programmes, in captivity in zoos/sanctuaries or as pets). The present review examines the historical aspects of enrichment practices, scientific advances and the growth of interest and recent research.The different classifications of enrichments, as well as the application of techniques for domestic and wild cats are considered.  This review identifies what research still needs to be done, to provide more complete and effective welfare conditions for animals.(AU)

Comparison of Acute versus Chronic Stress Responses to Different Housings Systems of Cats

Background: The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and functional systems undergo the assessment of stress levels throughout living environments, contributing to avoid side effects to well-being in domestic animals, including pets. Cortisol represents the most important glucocorticoid found in felis and it is frequently used as standard marker in stress research. The purpose of the present study was to compare the adrenal and haematological patterns of cats, by taking into account the effects of different housings systems. The hypothesis was to find a different coping strategies, according to different housings.Materials, Methods & Results: For this study a total of 50 cats were selected on the basis of the breed: European domestic short hair cats, age ranged between 22 and 30 months and housings systems, represented by cattery and/or households, respectively. On these basis, cats were distinguished into two groups, represented by group A: 22 cats living in cattery, and group B: 28 cats living in households. Blood samples were collected twice a week, for two consecutive days, during one month and subsequently analysed for haematological analysis and cortisol concentrations. Group B showed higher cortisol concentrations (P 0.01), Red Blood Cell (P 0.05), Packed Cell Volume (P 0.001), Platelets (P 0.01), Heart Rate and Respiratory Rate (P 0.0

Comparison of acute versus chronic stress responses to different housing’s systems of cats

Background: The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and functional systems undergo the assessment of stress levels throughout living environments, contributing to avoid side effects to well-being in domestic animals, including pets. Cortisol represents the most important glucocorticoid found in felis and it is frequently used as standard marker in stress research. The purpose of the present study was to compare the adrenal and haematological patterns of cats, by taking into account the effects of different housing’s systems. The hypothesis was to find a different coping strategies, according to different housings. Materials, Methods & Results: For this study a total of 50 cats were selected on the basis of the breed: European domestic short hair cats, age ranged between 22 and 30 months and housing’s systems, represented by cattery and/or households, respectively. On these basis, cats were distinguished into two groups, represented by group A: 22 cats living in cattery, and group B: 28 cats living in households. Blood samples were collected twice a week, for two consecutive days, during one month and subsequently analysed for haematological analysis and cortisol concentrations. Group B showed higher cortisol concentrations (P < 0.01), Red Blood Cell (P < 0.05), Packed Cell Volume (P < 0.001), Platelets (P < 0.01), Heart Rate and Respiratory Rate (P < 0.05) values, and lower White Blood Cell (P < 0.001) than group A.Discussion: This observational study showed that cats housed in the households group showed higher cortisol, RBC, PCV, Plt, HR and RR values, and lower WBC rather than cattery’s cats. Another point is that males showed higher RBC, PCV, WBC and Plt than females, irrespective of different housing’s systems.[...]

Comparison of acute versus chronic stress responses to different housings systems of cats

Background: The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and functional systems undergo the assessment of stress levels throughout living environments, contributing to avoid side effects to well-being in domestic animals, including pets. Cortisol represents the most important glucocorticoid found in felis and it is frequently used as standard marker in stress research. The purpose of the present study was to compare the adrenal and haematological patterns of cats, by taking into account the effects of different housings systems. The hypothesis was to find a different coping strategies, according to different housings. Materials, Methods & Results: For this study a total of 50 cats were selected on the basis of the breed: European domestic short hair cats, age ranged between 22 and 30 months and housings systems, represented by cattery and/or households, respectively. On these basis, cats were distinguished into two groups, represented by group A: 22 cats living in cattery, and group B: 28 cats living in households. Blood samples were collected twice a week, for two consecutive days, during one month and subsequently analysed for haematological analysis and cortisol concentrations. Group B showed higher cortisol concentrations (P < 0.01), Red Blood Cell (P < 0.05), Packed Cell Volume (P < 0.001), Platelets (P < 0.01), Heart Rate and Respiratory Rate (P < 0.05) values, and lower White Blood Cell (P < 0.001) than group A.Discussion: This observational study showed that cats housed in the households group showed higher cortisol, RBC, PCV, Plt, HR and RR values, and lower WBC rather than catterys cats. Another point is that males showed higher RBC, PCV, WBC and Plt than females, irrespective of different housings systems.[...](AU)

MAUS-TRATOS AOS ANIMAIS COMO INDICADOR DE VIOLÊNCIA DOMÉSTICA

Atualmente, a família tem apresentado uma nova configuração, sendo composta por animais humanos e não humanos, reconhecida como família multiespécie. Assim, pode-se afirmar que animais de famílias que sofrem com a violência doméstica podem estar sujeitos ao mesmo contexto caótico. Diversos estudos comprovam a existência da relação entre os maus-tratos aos animais e a violência interpessoal chamada Teoria do Elo e demonstram a importância de um enfrentamento em rede para a quebra do ciclo de violência envolvido. O objetivo deste trabalho foi analisar a relação entre os maus-tratos aos animais e a violência doméstica, assim como desenvolver estratégias para enfrentamento e promoção de educação sobre a Teoria do Elo. O estudo divide-se em seis capítulos: (1) apresentação; (2) protocolos de avaliação da violência doméstica utilizando maustratos aos animais como indicador; (3) estratégia para avaliação de violência no âmbito da família multiespécie: proposta de inclusão do animal de estimação na ficha de atendimento de mulheres vítimas de violência para rastreamento e avaliação de violência multiespécie; (4) associação entre casos de maus-tratos aos animais e violência contra mulher no município de Pinhais, Paraná, Brasil; (5) capacitação sobre o elo entre a violência humana e os maus-tratos aos animais (Teoria do Elo) e (6) considerações finais. Os resultados apresentados no capítulo 2 demonstram que existem poucos protocolos no mundo que abordem procedimentos e estratégias para o enfrentamento da Teoria do Elo eficazmente. Apesar disso, cada vez mais as pesquisas sobre a temática vêm crescendo e gerando a conscientização interdisciplinar dos profissionais atuantes na proteção de animais humanos e não humanos. O capítulo 3 traz uma proposta de ficha para atendimento de casos de violência contra mulher que inclui informações pertinentes sobre os seus animais de estimação na rotina de instituições que fazem o acompanhamento desses casos. No capítulo 4 encontra-se a caracterização dos casos de maus-tratos aos animais e de violência contra mulher ocorridos no município de Pinhais-PR e mostra a existência de uma associação positiva e moderada entre eles, confirmando que os maus-tratos aos animais podem ser sugestivos de que há outras interações negativas no ambiente familiar. No capítulo 5 expõe a percepção de alunos, professores e profissionais de diversas áreas participantes de um curso de capacitação sobre a Teoria do Elo e reafirma a necessidade de se promover educação sobre esse tema. O curso promovido possibilitou um ambiente de discussão à nível nacional entre participantes de todas as regiões do Brasil. Esperase, portanto, que o presente estudo contribua no amadurecimento de estratégias intersetoriais para um enfrentamento eficiente dos diversos tipos de violência no âmbito da família multiespécie e para o estabelecimento de políticas públicas que reconheçam essa relação.

Currently, the family has presented a new configuration, being composed of human and non-human animals, recognized as a multispecies family. Thus, it can be said that animals from families that suffer with domestic violence may be subject to the same chaotic context. Several studies prove the existence of a relationship between animal mistreatment and interpersonal violence called the Link and demonstrate the importance of network coping to break the cycle of violence involved. The objective of this work was to analyze the relationship between animal mistreatment and domestic violence, as well as to develop strategies for coping and promoting education on the Link. The study is divided into six chapters: (1) Presentation; (2) Protocols for evaluation of domestic violence using mistreatment of animal as an indicator; (3) Strategy for assessing violence in the context of the multispecies family: proposal to include the pet in the care record of women victims of violence for screening and assessment of multispecies violence; (4) Association between cases of animal mistreatment and violence against women in the municipality of Pinhais, Paraná, Brazil; (5) Training on the link between human violence and animal abuse (The Link) and (6) Final considerations. The results presented in Chapter 2 demonstrate that there are few protocols in the world that address procedures and strategies for facing the Link effectively. Despite this, more and more research on the subject has been growing and generating interdisciplinary awareness among professionals working in the protection of human and non-human animals. Chapter 3 presents a proposal for a form to deal with cases of violence against women that includes pertinent information about their pets in the routine of institutions that monitor these cases. Chapter 4 contains the characterization of cases of animal mistreatment and violence against women in the municipality of Pinhais-PR and shows the existence of a positive and moderate association between them, confirming that animal abuse can be suggestive that there are other negative interactions in the family environment. Chapter 5, on the other hand, exposes the perception of students, teachers and professionals from different areas participating in training on the Link and reaffirms the need to promote education on this topic. The promoted course provided an environment for discussion at the national level among participants from all regions of Brazil. It is expected, therefore, that the present study will contribute to the maturation of intersectoral strategies for an efficient confrontation of the different types of violence within the scope of the multispecies family and for the establishment of public policies that recognize this relationship.

Adaptive parameters and thermal comfort of postpartum ewes fed on concentrate supplementation in grazing system / Parâmetros adaptativos e conforto térmico de ovelhas deslanadas no pós-parto submetidas à suplementação concentrada em sistema de pastejo

Current analysis evaluated adaptive parameters and thermal comfort of postpartum ewes fed on concentrate supplementation in grazing system. Thirty lactating pluriparous sheep, 16 Santa Inês (SI) and 14 Morada Nova (MN) were used. Physiological parameters such as respiratory rate (RR), heart rate (HR) and rectal temperature (RT) were measured, in that order, with the animals at rest in the morning (6:00-7:00 am) and in the afternoon (1:00-2:00 pm), respectively, every seven days, with 10 samples. A significant effect (p 0.05) for RR and HR was reported in the strain. Similar behavior was reported for RR between the breeds where MN sheep had high adaptability. Supplementation levels of 0.5 and 1.5% influenced (p 0.05) RR which was stronger in the sheep that received the highest supplementation level, possibly due to calorie increase in the diet. However, HR and RT parameters did not differ within the breed due to supplementation. HR was higher between the breeds for SI sheep at 0.5%. Results show that concentrated supplementation affected the respiratory rate of ewes in the postpartum period, with higher calorie increment at 1.5% level and superiority for Santa Inês ewes. Greater adaptability of Morada Nova sheep has been indicated when fed on concentrated diet in grazing system.

Objetivou-se avaliar os parâmetros adaptativos e o conforto térmico de ovelhas deslanadas no pósparto submetidas à suplementação concentrada em sistema de pastejo. Foram utilizadas 30 ovelhas pluríparas em lactação, sendo 16 da raça Santa Inês e 14 da raça Morada Nova. Os parâmetros fisiológicos, frequência cardíaca (FC), frequência respiratória (FR) e temperatura retal (TR) foram aferidos nessa ordem com os animais em repouso nos períodos da manhã e da tarde, de 6:00-7:00 e 13:00-14:00, respectivamente, a cada sete dias, totalizando dez coletas. Houve efeito de turno (p < 0,05) para FR e FC dentro de raça. Comportamento semelhante foi observado para FR entre raças, em que as ovelhas Morada Nova apresentaram maior adaptabilidade. Os níveis de suplementação de 0,5 e 1,5% exerceram influência (p < 0,05) sobre a FR com superioridade para as ovelhas que receberam maior nível de suplementação, possivelmente pelo incremento calórico na dieta. No entanto, os parâmetros FC e TR não diferiram dentro de raça em função da suplementação, sendo que entre raças a FC foi superior para ovelhas SI a 0,5%. Conclui-se que a suplementação concentrada exerceu influência sobre frequência respiratória das ovelhas deslanadas no pós-parto, com maior incremento calórico para o nível de 1,5% e superioridade para as ovelhas Santa Inês, indicando maior adaptabilidade das ovelhas Morada Nova quando submetidas à dieta concentrada em sistema de pastejo.

Adaptive parameters and thermal comfort of postpartum ewes fed on concentrate supplementation in grazing system / Parâmetros adaptativos e conforto térmico de ovelhas deslanadas no pós-parto submetidas à suplementação concentrada em sistema de pastejo

Current analysis evaluated adaptive parameters and thermal comfort of postpartum ewes fed on concentrate supplementation in grazing system. Thirty lactating pluriparous sheep, 16 Santa Inês (SI) and 14 Morada Nova (MN) were used. Physiological parameters such as respiratory rate (RR), heart rate (HR) and rectal temperature (RT) were measured, in that order, with the animals at rest in the morning (6:00-7:00 am) and in the afternoon (1:00-2:00 pm), respectively, every seven days, with 10 samples. A significant effect (p 0.05) for RR and HR was reported in the strain. Similar behavior was reported for RR between the breeds where MN sheep had high adaptability. Supplementation levels of 0.5 and 1.5% influenced (p 0.05) RR which was stronger in the sheep that received the highest supplementation level, possibly due to calorie increase in the diet. However, HR and RT parameters did not differ within the breed due to supplementation. HR was higher between the breeds for SI sheep at 0.5%. Results show that concentrated supplementation affected the respiratory rate of ewes in the postpartum period, with higher calorie increment at 1.5% level and superiority for Santa Inês ewes. Greater adaptability of Morada Nova sheep has been indicated when fed on concentrated diet in grazing system.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar os parâmetros adaptativos e o conforto térmico de ovelhas deslanadas no pósparto submetidas à suplementação concentrada em sistema de pastejo. Foram utilizadas 30 ovelhas pluríparas em lactação, sendo 16 da raça Santa Inês e 14 da raça Morada Nova. Os parâmetros fisiológicos, frequência cardíaca (FC), frequência respiratória (FR) e temperatura retal (TR) foram aferidos nessa ordem com os animais em repouso nos períodos da manhã e da tarde, de 6:00-7:00 e 13:00-14:00, respectivamente, a cada sete dias, totalizando dez coletas. Houve efeito de turno (p < 0,05) para FR e FC dentro de raça. Comportamento semelhante foi observado para FR entre raças, em que as ovelhas Morada Nova apresentaram maior adaptabilidade. Os níveis de suplementação de 0,5 e 1,5% exerceram influência (p < 0,05) sobre a FR com superioridade para as ovelhas que receberam maior nível de suplementação, possivelmente pelo incremento calórico na dieta. No entanto, os parâmetros FC e TR não diferiram dentro de raça em função da suplementação, sendo que entre raças a FC foi superior para ovelhas SI a 0,5%. Conclui-se que a suplementação concentrada exerceu influência sobre frequência respiratória das ovelhas deslanadas no pós-parto, com maior incremento calórico para o nível de 1,5% e superioridade para as ovelhas Santa Inês, indicando maior adaptabilidade das ovelhas Morada Nova quando submetidas à dieta concentrada em sistema de pastejo.(AU)

Experimental assessment of the effects of a Neotropical nocturnal piscivore on juvenile native and invasive fishes

We experimentally examined the predator-prey relationships between juvenile spotted sorubim Pseudoplastystoma corruscans and young-of-the-year invasive and native fish species of the Paraná River basin, Brazil. Three invasive (peacock bass Cichla piquiti, Nile tilapia Oreochromis niloticus, and channel catfish Ictalurus punctatus) and two native (yellowtail tetra Astyanax altiparanae and streaked prochilod Prochilodus lineatus) fish species were offered as prey to P. corruscans in 300 L aquaria with three habitat complexity treatments (0%, 50% and 100% structure-covered). Prey survival was variable through time and among species (C. piquiti < O. niloticus < A. altiparanae < P. lineatus < I. punctatus), depending largely on species-specific prey behavior but also on prey size and morphological defenses. Habitat complexity did not directly affect P. corruscans piscivory but some prey species changed their microhabitat use and shoaling behavior among habitat treatments in predator's presence. Pseudoplatystoma corruscans preyed preferentially on smaller individuals of those invasive species with weak morphological defensive features that persisted in a non-shoaling behavior. Overall, our results contrast with those in a companion experiment using a diurnal predator, suggesting that nocturnal piscivores preferentially prey on different (rather diurnal) fish species and are less affected by habitat complexity. Our findings suggest that recovering the native populations of P. corruscans might help controling some fish species introduced to the Paraná River basin, particularly C. piquiti and O. niloticus, whose parental care is expected to be weak or null at night.(AU)

A relação predador-presa entre juvenis de pintado Pseudoplatystoma corruscans (piscívoro nativo) e jovens do ano de espécies nativas e invasoras de peixes da bacia do rio Paraná, Brasil, foi testada experimentalmente. Três espécies de peixe invasoras (o tucunaré Cichla piquiti, a tilápia do Nilo Oreochromis niloticus e o bagre do canal Ictalurus punctatus) e duas nativas (o lambari do rabo amarelo Astyanax altiparanae e o curimbatá Prochilodus lineatus) foram oferecidas como presa para P. corruscans em microcosmos, com três tratamentos de complexidade de habitat (0%, 50% e 100% de cobertura por estruturas submersas). A sobrevivência de presas variou ao longo do tempo e entre espécies (C. piquiti < O. niloticus < A. altiparanae < P. lineatus < I. punctatus), sendo governada, em grande parte, por diferenças espécies-específicas no comportamento das presas, mas também pelo tamanho e defesas morfológicas das mesmas. A complexidade de habitat não afetou diretamente a piscivoria de P. corruscans, mas, na presença do predador, algumas espécies-presa alteraram seu comportamento quanto ao uso de micro-habitat e grau de agregação entre os níveis de complexidade de habitat. Pseudoplatystoma corruscans predou preferencialmente sobre os indivíduos menores das espécies invasoras que apresentaram estruturas morfológicas defensivas pouco desenvolvidas e que não formavam cardume. Em geral, os resultados obtidos contrastam com os de um experimento análogo, no qual foi usado um piscívoro diurno, sugerindo que piscívoros noturnos predam preferencialmente sobre espécies de peixes diferentes (de hábitos mais diurnos) e que são menos afetados pela complexidade estrutural de habitats. Os resultados obtidos sugerem que a recuperação de populações nativas de P. corruscans poderia contribuir para o controle de algumas espécies de peixes introduzidas no rio Paraná, especialmente C. piquiti e O. niloticus, dos quais se espera que o cuidado parental seja reduzido ou nulo à noite.(AU)

Bacterina de Staphylococcus aureus contendo própolis como adjuvante para controle da mastite

A mastite bovina é um problema sanitário mundial, com medidas de tratamento e prevenção insatisfatórias. Paralelamente, vem crescendo o interesse no uso de própolis como alternativa para tratamento das mastites, sendo ainda, objeto de estudos com finalidade de uso como adjuvante. Até o momento, porém, não foi descrito seu uso em vacinas para controle da mastite bovina. A importância do gênero Staphylococcus como agente da enfermidade é bem documentada, crescendo a necessidade de identificação da espécie do agente etiológico. A pesquisa identificou 12,6% de estafilococos coagulase positiva em mastites subclínicas na região sul do Brasil, sendo que S. aureus estando presente em 17,6% dos animais pesquisados. Dentre os isolados coagulase positiva, a frequência de S. aureus foi de 85,7%, a de S. intermedius foi de 8,5% e de S. hyicus foi 5,8%. A bactéria S. aureus utiliza vários fatores de patogenicidade para causar a infecção no hospedeiro. Foi pesquisado em bases de dados, as informações recentes sobre os principais produtos expressos e forma de atuação. Descreveu-se os principais mecanismos ligados a penetração do micro-organismo na glândula mamária, os processos que medeiam a formação do biofilme e suas estratégias de sobrevivência as respostas do hospedeiro, resultando em processos que muitas vezes tornam-se crônicos. Finalmente, é desejável a utilização de uma vacina eficiente para colaborar no controle da mastite, e dessa forma foi proposta a utilização de uma bacterina contendo extrato hidro-alcoólico de própolis verde na formulação. Comparou-se o seu efeito com uma formulação sem adição de própolis, vacina comercial e PBS esterilizado, em um trabalho conduzido em 63 bovinos. De forma semelhante, com os mesmos grupos de tratamento, mas com a adição de um grupo que recebeu apenas o extrato hidroalcoólico de própolis verde, foi conduzida uma pesquisa em 30 camundongos BALB/c. A pesquisa de anticorpos IgG em bovinos, demonstrou que tanto o tratamento contendo extrato hidroalcóolico de própolis verde quanto a bacterina sem própolis apresentaram resultados semelhantes, superiores aos tratamentos utilizando a vacina comercial e PBS, sendo que nos mesmos tratamentos, foi observada uma resposta com característica humoral inicialmente, tendendo a celular ao longo do experimento. Nos bovinos, a expressão relativa de RNAm para INF-, IL-2 e CXCR5 foi elevada para o grupo que recebeu a bacterina contendo extrato hidroalcoólico de própolis verde. Os resultados do teste de ELISA em camundongos, foram semelhantes aos encontrados para os bovinos. O grupo que recebeu apenas o extrato hidroalcoólico de própolis verde sem nenhuma combinação bacteriana, demonstrou resposta com predominância de IgG1 ao longo da pesquisa, semelhante aos grupos de vacina comercial e PBS. No modelo murino, a vacina comercial apresentou índices maiores de expressão de RNAm para as citocinas pesquisadas em esplenócitos. Os resultados obtidos sugerem que a bacterina contendo extrato hidroalcoólico de própolis verde apresenta potencial para atuar como ferramenta no controle da mastite bovina.

Bovine mastitis is a global health problem and many scientific advances have occurred, but the treatment and prevention of disease with existing techniques do not present satisfactory results. Similarly, there is growing interest in the use of propolis as an alternative for treatment of mastitis, also being the object of studies in order to use as an adjuvant, although so far it has not been described their use in vaccines for the control of bovine mastitis. The importance of Staphylococcus gender as disease agent is well documented, growing need for species identification of the etiologic agent. In a survey of coagulase-positive staphylococci in subclinical mastitis in southern Brazil, was finding its presence in 12.6% of cases with S. aureus was present in 17.6% of animal researched. Among the considered coagulase positive S. aureus is 85.7%, 8.5%, were S. intermedius and 5.8% were identified as S. hyicus. For the S. aureus penetrate, multiply and keep the host uses multiple pathogenic factors. Was researched in the literature to-date information on the main mechanisms expressed by the bacteria and how they operate, alone or integrated to ensure the penetration of micro-organism in the mammary gland, the processes that mediate the formation of biofilms and their coping strategies the host responses, their internalization in the cells and its continuation mechanisms, resulting in processes that often become chronic. To assist in the control of mastitis, is desirable the use of an effective vaccine and thus has been proposed the use of a bacterin containing hydroalcoholic extract of green propolis in the formulation is desirable, being compared to a similar bacterin without propolis, commercial vaccine and sterile PBS on a work carried out on 63 bovines. Similarly, with the same treatment groups and the addition of a group that received only the hydroalcoholic extract of propolis, a study was conducted on 30 BALB/c mice. The research of IgG antibodies in bovines showed that both treatment containing hydroalcoholic extract of propolis as the bacterin without propolis showed similar results and superior to commercial and PBS treatments, and the same treatment, we observed initially characteristic a humoral response with tending to cellular during throughout the experiment. In bovines, the relative expression of mRNA for INF-, IL-2 and CXCR5 was raised to the group receiving bacterin containing hidroalcoholic extract of green propolis. The ELISA results were similar to those of bovine in BALB/c still with the group that received only the the alcoholic extract of propolis without any bacterial combination, behaving similarly commercial and PBS, and the response was predominantly IgG1 to during the research. In the murine model, the commercial vaccine showed higher levels of mRNA expression for the studied cytokines. The results indicate that the bacterin containing alcoholic extract of propolis has the potential to act as a tool in the control of bovine mastitis in the target especie, requiring minor adjustments and a job to prove the efficiency in a challenge.

Biochemical responses of two Erythrinidae fish to environmental ammonia

The non-ionized form of ammonia is very toxic to many aquatic species. It is especially important in several aspects of fish biology. A large range of organismal strategies for coping with environmental stressors is usually observed in living organisms. Among those, the responses for managing chemical stressors are well studied. The present work compares biochemical responses of two evolutionarily close species, Hoplias malabaricus and Hoplerythrinus unitaeniatus, exposed to environmental ammonia. Adult fish were submitted to 1.0 mg/L of ammonium chloride for 24 hours, and plasma ammonia and urea levels were determined. The activities of OUC enzymes OCT and ARG, and the accessory enzyme GS, were quantified in liver extract and are expressed below in mumol/min/mg of wet tissue. Increases in OUC enzymes (GS from 1.14 to 2.43, OCT from 0.81 to 1.72, and ARG from 3.15 to 4.23), plasma ammonia (from 0.95 to 1.42 mmol/L), and plasma urea (from 0.82 to 1.53 mmol/L) were observed (p 0.05) in H. malabaricus exposed to 1 mg/L of ammonia chloride. The GS in H. unitaeniatus increased from 1.43 to 1.84, however the OCT, ARG, and plasma urea from H. unitaeniatus did not change. These data indicate that each species responds differently to the same environmental stressor.

A forma não ionizada da amônia é muito tóxica a vários organismos aquáticos, sendo particularmente importante em muitos aspectos da biologia dos peixes. Um amplo grupo de estratégias para enfrentar os estressores ambientais pode ser observado nos organismos vivos. Dentre estas, as respostas aos estressores químicos são bem estudadas. O presente trabalho compara respostas bioquímicas de duas espécies evolutivamente próximas Hoplias malabaricus e Hoplerythrinus unitaeniatus, expostas à amônia ambiental. Peixes adultos foram submetidos a 1.0 mg/L de cloreto de amônio por 24 horas e foram determinados os níveis plasmáticos de amônia e uréia. As atividades das enzimas do COU, OCT e ARG e a enzima acessória GS foram quantificadas em extrato de fígado e são expressas em mimol/min/mg de tecido úmido. Foi observado em H. malabaricus, exposto a 1,0 mg/L de cloreto de amônio, aumento (p 0,05) nas enzimas: GS, de 1,14 para 2,43; OCT, de 0,81 para 1,72; ARG, de 3,15 para 4,23; na amônia plasmática, de 0,95 para 1,42 mmol/L, e na uréia plasmática, de 0,82 para 1,53. A GS de H. malabaricus aumentou de 1,43 para 1,84, todavia, OCT, ARG e uréia plasmática não variaram. Esses dados mostram que ambas as espécies, taxonomicamente próximas, respondem distintamente ao mesmo estressor ambiental.

Comparison of Acute versus Chronic Stress Responses to Different Housings Systems of Cats

Background: The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and functional systems undergo the assessment of stress levels throughout living environments, contributing to avoid side effects to well-being in domestic animals, including pets. Cortisol represents the most important glucocorticoid found in felis and it is frequently used as standard marker in stress research. The purpose of the present study was to compare the adrenal and haematological patterns of cats, by taking into account the effects of different housings systems. The hypothesis was to find a different coping strategies, according to different housings.Materials, Methods & Results: For this study a total of 50 cats were selected on the basis of the breed: European domestic short hair cats, age ranged between 22 and 30 months and housings systems, represented by cattery and/or households, respectively. On these basis, cats were distinguished into two groups, represented by group A: 22 cats living in cattery, and group B: 28 cats living in households. Blood samples were collected twice a week, for two consecutive days, during one month and subsequently analysed for haematological analysis and cortisol concentrations. Group B showed higher cortisol concentrations (P 0.01), Red Blood Cell (P 0.05), Packed Cell Volume (P 0.001), Platelets (P 0.01), Heart Rate and Respiratory Rate (P 0.0

Comparison of Acute versus Chronic Stress Responses to Different Housings Systems of Cats

Background: The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and functional systems undergo the assessment of stress levels throughout living environments, contributing to avoid side effects to well-being in domestic animals, including pets. Cortisol represents the most important glucocorticoid found in felis and it is frequently used as standard marker in stress research. The purpose of the present study was to compare the adrenal and haematological patterns of cats, by taking into account the effects of different housings systems. The hypothesis was to find a different coping strategies, according to different housings.Materials, Methods & Results: For this study a total of 50 cats were selected on the basis of the breed: European domestic short hair cats, age ranged between 22 and 30 months and housings systems, represented by cattery and/or households, respectively. On these basis, cats were distinguished into two groups, represented by group A: 22 cats living in cattery, and group B: 28 cats living in households. Blood samples were collected twice a week, for two consecutive days, during one month and subsequently analysed for haematological analysis and cortisol concentrations. Group B showed higher cortisol concentrations (P 0.01), Red Blood Cell (P 0.05), Packed Cell Volume (P 0.001), Platelets (P 0.01), Heart Rate and Respiratory Rate (P 0.0

Comparison of Acute versus Chronic Stress Responses to Different Housings Systems of Cats

Background: The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and functional systems undergo the assessment of stress levels throughout living environments, contributing to avoid side effects to well-being in domestic animals, including pets. Cortisol represents the most important glucocorticoid found in felis and it is frequently used as standard marker in stress research. The purpose of the present study was to compare the adrenal and haematological patterns of cats, by taking into account the effects of different housings systems. The hypothesis was to find a different coping strategies, according to different housings.Materials, Methods & Results: For this study a total of 50 cats were selected on the basis of the breed: European domestic short hair cats, age ranged between 22 and 30 months and housings systems, represented by cattery and/or households, respectively. On these basis, cats were distinguished into two groups, represented by group A: 22 cats living in cattery, and group B: 28 cats living in households. Blood samples were collected twice a week, for two consecutive days, during one month and subsequently analysed for haematological analysis and cortisol concentrations. Group B showed higher cortisol concentrations (P 0.01), Red Blood Cell (P 0.05), Packed Cell Volume (P 0.001), Platelets (P 0.01), Heart Rate and Respiratory Rate (P 0.0

Comparison of Acute versus Chronic Stress Responses to Different Housings Systems of Cats

Background: The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and functional systems undergo the assessment of stress levels throughout living environments, contributing to avoid side effects to well-being in domestic animals, including pets. Cortisol represents the most important glucocorticoid found in felis and it is frequently used as standard marker in stress research. The purpose of the present study was to compare the adrenal and haematological patterns of cats, by taking into account the effects of different housings systems. The hypothesis was to find a different coping strategies, according to different housings.Materials, Methods & Results: For this study a total of 50 cats were selected on the basis of the breed: European domestic short hair cats, age ranged between 22 and 30 months and housings systems, represented by cattery and/or households, respectively. On these basis, cats were distinguished into two groups, represented by group A: 22 cats living in cattery, and group B: 28 cats living in households. Blood samples were collected twice a week, for two consecutive days, during one month and subsequently analysed for haematological analysis and cortisol concentrations. Group B showed higher cortisol concentrations (P 0.01), Red Blood Cell (P 0.05), Packed Cell Volume (P 0.001), Platelets (P 0.01), Heart Rate and Respiratory Rate (P 0.0