Effectiveness of oral electrolyte solutions with different compositions for the treatment of neonatal calves with induced osmotic diarrhea / Eficácia de soluções eletrolíticas orais com diferentes composições no tratamento de bezerros neonatos com diarreia osmótica induzida

In a randomized controlled trial, we evaluated the effects of five oral electrolyte solutions (OESS) with different compositions of water, electrolyte, and acid-base balances of diarrheal neonatal calves. Osmotic diarrhea and dehydration were induced with sucrose in milk, spironolactone, and hydrochlorothiazide for 48 h in thirty 10-day old Holstein healthy calves with 43.5 ± 3.80 kg BW who were fed with natural milk. They were allocated to five treatment groups (n=6) based on the administered OES (commercial: OES A, B, C, D; and non-commercial: OES UEL). On the day of treatment, the calves received 6L of OES in two doses apart from milk intakes. Venous blood samples were collected at -48h (start of induction), -24h, Oh (start of the treatment day), 8h, 16h, 24h, 48h, and 72h. TPP, glucose, D-lactate, L-lactate, pH, pCO2, HCO3, BE, Na, K, CI, SID3, SIG, AG, Atot and percentage change in plasma volume (%PV) were measured or calculated and analyzed by two-way repeated measures ANOVA. All the calves developed osmotic diarrhea, mild to moderate dehydration, hyponatremia, relative hyperchloremia, and moderate to severe metabolic acidosis. The tested OESS were well accepted by the calves and effective in reversing dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and metabolic acidosis. OES D did not completely correct hyponatremia, and SEO B caused transient hyperglycemia. It has been concluded that all the tested OESS are safe and effective for the treatment of diarrhea in calves with moderate degrees of dehydration and metabolic acidosis, which indicates that they have proper compositions for this purpose.

Em um ensaio clínico controlado e aleatório, foram comparados os efeitos de cinco soluções eletrolíticas orais (SEOs) sobre os equilíbrios hídrico, eletrolítico e ácido-base de bezerros neonatos diarreicos. Diarreia osmótica e desidratação foram induzidas com sacarose no leite, espironolactona e hidroclorotiazida, por 48h, em 30 bezerros Holandeses com 10 dias de idade, 43,5 ± 3,8kg de peso, e alimentados com leite natural. Eles foram distribuídos em cinco grupos de tratamento (n=6) de acordo com a SEO administrada (comercial: SEO A, B, C, D; e não comercial: SEO UEL). No dia do tratamento, os bezerros receberam 6L de SEO em duas doses além da ingestão de leite. Amostras de sangue venoso foram coletadas em -48h (início da indução), - 24h, Oh (início do dia de tratamento), 8h, 16h, 24h, 48h e 72h. PPT, glicose, lactatos Le D, pH, pCO2, HCO3, BE, Na, K, CI, SID3, SIG, AG, Atot e variação percentual no volume plasmático (%VP) foram mensurados ou calculados, e analisados por meio de ANOVA de duas vias de medidas repetidas. Todos os bezerros desenvolveram diarreia osmótica, desidratação leve a moderada, hiponatremia, hipercloremia relativa e acidose metabólica moderada a grave. As SEOs testadas foram bem aceitas pelos bezerros e eficazes para a reversão da desidratação, dos desequilíbrios eletrolíticos e da acidose metabólica. A SEO D não corrigiu completamente a hiponatremia, e a SEO B causou hiperglicemia transitória. Conclui-se que todas as SEOs são eficazes para o tratamento da diarreia em bezerros com graus moderados de desidratação e de acidose metabólica, o que indica que possuem composições adequadas para esse fim.

Clinical and surgical approach to umbilical disorders in calves: literature review / Abordagem clínica e cirúrgica das afecções umbilicais em bezerros: revisão de literatura

Umbilical disorders, which frequently occur in calves, are among the major causes of economic losses in herds. Antibiotic therapy alone is effective for some infectious cases, but surgical intervention is often indicated. This review aims to provide an overview of the clinical and surgical perspectives of the principal umbilical disorders in calves. The umbilicus may be affected by infectious or non-infectious conditions, including hernia, persistent urachus, omphalitis, urachitis, omphalophlebitis, and omphaloarteritis. Infectious varieties can culminate in sepsis and sometimes even involve other organs. Under these conditions, the chief complaint of calves tends to be apathy and visible swelling in the umbilical region. When surgery is indicated, the veterinary surgeon needs to have a thorough understanding of umbilical disorders, which coupled with careful clinical examination, will enable the formulation of an effective surgical plan. Surgical principles linked to pre-, trans-, and post-operative care must be considered, as recovery depends upon the surgery performed, pathological factors, and the patient's individual response. Some of the most common surgeries performed include herniorrhaphy, urachus, and umbilical vein resection. Several technological resources, such as ultrasonography and laparoscopy, are new tools that can help improve the performance of these procedures.

As afecções umbilicais são frequentes em bezerros e causam prejuízos econômicos e produtivos nos rebanhos. Apesar da antibioticoterapia ser eficaz em muitos casos infecciosos, o tratamento cirúrgico pode ser indicado. Pela incipiência de revisão relacionada a temática, objetivou-se produzir uma revisão sobre a abordagem clínica e cirúrgica das principais afecções umbilicais de bezerros. O umbigo pode apresentar infecções, como onfalite, uraquite, onfaloflebite, onfaloarterite, paratopias cirúrgicas e persistência de úraco. As infecções podem progredir para quadros septicêmicos com acometimentos de outros órgãos. A queixa principal dessas afecções consiste na protrusão da região umbilical e apatia dos bezerros. Quando a indicação terapêutica for cirúrgica, uma adequada compreensão das afecções umbilicais aliada a um bom exame clínico possibilitará ao cirurgião veterinário estabelecer um bom plano cirúrgico. Princípios cirúrgicos relacionados ao pré, trans e pós-operatório devem ser levados em consideração, pois a recuperação do paciente está diretamente relacionada à tratamento cirúrgico executada, fatores patológicos e resposta individual do paciente. Dentre as cirurgias mais comuns realizadas estão as herniorrafias, cirurgias de úraco e de veias umbilicais. Vários recursos tecnológicos trazem novidades nesses procedimentos, como a ultrassonografia, com destaque para videocirurgia.

Onfalocele em bezerro neonato / Omphalocele in neonate calf

Background: An omphalocele is a rare congenital malformation characterized by the protrusion of the abdominal contentsthrough the base of the umbilical cord. A defect in the midline of the abdomen results in the abdominal contents beingcovered by a membranous sac near the umbilical cord, which ultimately results in the failure of the abdominal organs toreturn to the abdominal cavity in the early gestational stages and the development of an omphalocele. This study aimed toaddress the diagnosis, medical-surgical management, and treatment for an omphalocele in a newborn calf.Case: A 2-day-old male Red Angus calf, weighing 35 kg, was referred to the HVU-UFSM. According to the owner, theanimal was born via normal delivery, had ingested milk, was alert, and had an enlarged pendulous abdomen at the umbilicus. Physical examination did not show any changes in vital functions; however, intestinal stasis was observed. Anin-depth examination revealed the presence of a round mass of tissue approximately 15 cm in diameter that was fillingthe remnant of the umbilical cord. This structure was covered by a thin, slightly dried membrane that isolated the contentsfrom the external environment. On palpation, the mass was firm and non-reducible, and an omphalocele was suspected.Given the severity of the condition, the animal immediately underwent an emergency surgical procedure to correct thecongenital defect. The surgery involved placing the intestinal loops that were present inside the sac in the abdominal cavity. At the end of the procedure, the animal was placed in a quadrupedal position to better assess omphalocele reduction.Postoperatively, the following medications were administered: a single dose of an analgesic along with a dipyrone andhyoscine-based antispasmodic (25 mg/kg, IM), an enrofloxacin-based antibiotic (2.5 mg/kg, IM) once a day for 7 days...

Onfalocele em bezerro neonato / Omphalocele in neonate calf

Background: An omphalocele is a rare congenital malformation characterized by the protrusion of the abdominal contentsthrough the base of the umbilical cord. A defect in the midline of the abdomen results in the abdominal contents beingcovered by a membranous sac near the umbilical cord, which ultimately results in the failure of the abdominal organs toreturn to the abdominal cavity in the early gestational stages and the development of an omphalocele. This study aimed toaddress the diagnosis, medical-surgical management, and treatment for an omphalocele in a newborn calf.Case: A 2-day-old male Red Angus calf, weighing 35 kg, was referred to the HVU-UFSM. According to the owner, theanimal was born via normal delivery, had ingested milk, was alert, and had an enlarged pendulous abdomen at the umbilicus. Physical examination did not show any changes in vital functions; however, intestinal stasis was observed. Anin-depth examination revealed the presence of a round mass of tissue approximately 15 cm in diameter that was fillingthe remnant of the umbilical cord. This structure was covered by a thin, slightly dried membrane that isolated the contentsfrom the external environment. On palpation, the mass was firm and non-reducible, and an omphalocele was suspected.Given the severity of the condition, the animal immediately underwent an emergency surgical procedure to correct thecongenital defect. The surgery involved placing the intestinal loops that were present inside the sac in the abdominal cavity. At the end of the procedure, the animal was placed in a quadrupedal position to better assess omphalocele reduction.Postoperatively, the following medications were administered: a single dose of an analgesic along with a dipyrone andhyoscine-based antispasmodic (25 mg/kg, IM), an enrofloxacin-based antibiotic (2.5 mg/kg, IM) once a day for 7 days...(AU)

Clinical, imaginological and pathological aspects of umbilical panvasculitis in calves: case report / Aspectos imaginológicos e clínico-patológicos de panvasculite umbilical em bezerro: relato de caso

The diagnosis of umbilical infections in neonates can be obtained from clinical signs, but the intracavitary involvement of structures and associated complications can be underestimated, compromising the establishment of adequate therapeutic approaches or prognosis. This case report presents the clinical, imaging, pathological and microbiological aspects of an umbilical infection in calves. Physical examination of the animal identified apathy, low body score, increased volume in the umbilical region and joints. The abdominal palpation identified firm structures in topography of the arteries and umbilical vein. Imaging examinations of the abdomen and joints were performed. Multiple, hyperechogenic focal structures have been identified in the liver, as well as cylindrical and firm structures in topography of the arteries and umbilical vein. In the joints, osteolytic changes, periosteal reactions, subchondral sclerosis and formation of osteophytes were seen. Umbilical panvasculitis triggered arthritis and an infectious process in the liver, the case being assessed as having an unfavorable prognosis and the animal being referred for euthanasia. At necropsy, multifocal abscesses were observed in the pleura, ribs, omentum, spleen and liver. There was granulomatous exudate in the urinary vesicle. The affected joints presented thickening of the joint capsule with the presence of exudat

O diagnóstico das infecções umbilicais em neonatos pode ser obtido a partir do exame clínico, porém o compro-metimento intracavitário das estruturas e as complicações associadas podem ser subestimados, comprometendo o estabeleci-mento de condutas terapêuticas ou prognósticos adequados. Apresenta-se nesse trabalho os aspectos clínicos, imaginológicos e patológicos de uma infecção umbilical em bezerro. No exame físico do animal identificou-se apatia, baixo escore corporal, aumento de volume na região umbilical e articulações e, em palpação abdominal, estruturas firmes em topografia das artérias e veia umbilical. Na avaliação ultrassonográfica abdominal identificou-se estruturas focais múltiplas, hiperecogênicas no fígado e estrutura bem definida, com parede hipoecoica e lúmen hiperecoico, estendendo-se de lobo hepático até porção cranial do anel umbilical. Na radiografia das articulações foram vistas alterações osteolíticas, reação periosteal, esclerose e formação de osteófitos, além do aumento de volume e radiopacidade de tecido moles adjacentes com presença de áreas radiolucentes, indi-cando presença gasosa local. Os sinais clínicos e os achados imaginológicos demonstraram a ocorrência de panvasculite umbi-lical que desencadeou um quadro de poliartrite séptica e processos infecciosos em diversos órgãos. O estudo imaginológico permitiu identificar onfaloflebite, grave acometimento de parênquima hepático e artrites sépticas, sendo o caso avaliado como tendo um prognóstico desfavorável e o animal eutanasiado. O tratamento conservador com antibioticoterapia prolongada e/ou a retirada ou marsupialização dos remanescentes umbilicais infectados podem ser utilizados em casos de onfaloflebites ou onfaloarterites. No entanto, esse procedimento não foi adotado devido ao comprometimento hepático e aos achados radio-gráficos que demonstraram ocorrência de osteoartrite séptica.

Clinical, imaginological and pathological aspects of umbilical panvasculitis in calves: case report / Aspectos imaginológicos e clínico-patológicos de panvasculite umbilical em bezerro: relato de caso

The diagnosis of umbilical infections in neonates can be obtained from clinical signs, but the intracavitary involvement of structures and associated complications can be underestimated, compromising the establishment of adequate therapeutic approaches or prognosis. This case report presents the clinical, imaging, pathological and microbiological aspects of an umbilical infection in calves. Physical examination of the animal identified apathy, low body score, increased volume in the umbilical region and joints. The abdominal palpation identified firm structures in topography of the arteries and umbilical vein. Imaging examinations of the abdomen and joints were performed. Multiple, hyperechogenic focal structures have been identified in the liver, as well as cylindrical and firm structures in topography of the arteries and umbilical vein. In the joints, osteolytic changes, periosteal reactions, subchondral sclerosis and formation of osteophytes were seen. Umbilical panvasculitis triggered arthritis and an infectious process in the liver, the case being assessed as having an unfavorable prognosis and the animal being referred for euthanasia. At necropsy, multifocal abscesses were observed in the pleura, ribs, omentum, spleen and liver. There was granulomatous exudate in the urinary vesicle. The affected joints presented thickening of the joint capsule with the presence of exudat(AU)

O diagnóstico das infecções umbilicais em neonatos pode ser obtido a partir do exame clínico, porém o compro-metimento intracavitário das estruturas e as complicações associadas podem ser subestimados, comprometendo o estabeleci-mento de condutas terapêuticas ou prognósticos adequados. Apresenta-se nesse trabalho os aspectos clínicos, imaginológicos e patológicos de uma infecção umbilical em bezerro. No exame físico do animal identificou-se apatia, baixo escore corporal, aumento de volume na região umbilical e articulações e, em palpação abdominal, estruturas firmes em topografia das artérias e veia umbilical. Na avaliação ultrassonográfica abdominal identificou-se estruturas focais múltiplas, hiperecogênicas no fígado e estrutura bem definida, com parede hipoecoica e lúmen hiperecoico, estendendo-se de lobo hepático até porção cranial do anel umbilical. Na radiografia das articulações foram vistas alterações osteolíticas, reação periosteal, esclerose e formação de osteófitos, além do aumento de volume e radiopacidade de tecido moles adjacentes com presença de áreas radiolucentes, indi-cando presença gasosa local. Os sinais clínicos e os achados imaginológicos demonstraram a ocorrência de panvasculite umbi-lical que desencadeou um quadro de poliartrite séptica e processos infecciosos em diversos órgãos. O estudo imaginológico permitiu identificar onfaloflebite, grave acometimento de parênquima hepático e artrites sépticas, sendo o caso avaliado como tendo um prognóstico desfavorável e o animal eutanasiado. O tratamento conservador com antibioticoterapia prolongada e/ou a retirada ou marsupialização dos remanescentes umbilicais infectados podem ser utilizados em casos de onfaloflebites ou onfaloarterites. No entanto, esse procedimento não foi adotado devido ao comprometimento hepático e aos achados radio-gráficos que demonstraram ocorrência de osteoartrite séptica.(AU)

Salmonelose em bezerros pelo sorovar Dublin no estado do Paraná, Brasil - aspectos clínico-patológicos / Salmonellosis in calves by serovar Dublin in Paraná State, Brazil - clinicopathological aspects

Background: Calf diarrhea remains one of the main diseases affecting the cattle industry. Persistence of this significant problem is associated with the complexity of factors that may be involved (infectious, environmental). An accurate diagnosis is essential for confirming the cause and helping clinicians and cattle producers to apply appropriate strategies in a timely manner. This report describes the histological changes according to the degree of salmonellosis severity, which is a contagious infectious disease caused by Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica, a Gram-negative bacterium, in two beef calves in northern Paraná State, southern Brazil. Cases: Two 90-day-old crossbred Angus and Nellore calves from a beef farm in northern Paraná State were referred to a Veterinary Hospital. Animal 1- developed acute clinical signs (enteritis, ataxia, and muscle rigidity) and died the day after the signs began. Gross findings included heavy and non-collapsed lungs, pulmonary oedema, hepatomegaly, enteritis, and severe diffuse typhlitis. Microscopic analysis revealed severe diffuse necrotic enteritis, typhlitis, severe diffuse interstitial pneumonia, moderate centrilobular hepatic necrosis, mild multifocal nephritis, and severe spleen and lymph node necrosis. Paratyphoid nodules were evidenced on the liver, spleen, and mesenteric lymph nodes. Animal 2- presented apathy, green fibrinous diarrhea, and died three days after the onset of clinical signs. The macroscopic examination showed moderate diffuse enteritis and hepatosplenomegaly. At the microscopic examination, many paratyphoid nodules were observed on the liver, spleen, kidneys, and Peyer's patches, which were associated with intralesional and intravascular bacilli. Additional findings included severe diffuse fibrinous necrotic enteritis with intralesional bacilli, diffuse interstitial pneumonia, multifocal splenic necrosis, lymphoid depletion, and moderate multifocal to coalescent lymphocytic nephritis. Histological Gram staining was performed on selected samples, revealing intralesional Gram-negative bacilli in the liver and intestine. Thus, liver and intestine fragments were used for the microbiological examination. Microbiological culture, isolation and biochemical tests identified the genus Salmonella spp. Then, the colonies were subjected to serological tests for serovar identification, according to ISO/TR 6579-3, which determined the serovar Dublin. After identifying the disease etiological agent, the outbreak was controlled by appropriate antibiotic therapy combined with the correction of sanitary measures. Discussion: Enteritis is a frequent disease in calves, posing a diagnostic challenge in identifying the etiological agent. In the present case, the histological, microbiological, and serological results confirmed a disseminated Salmonella spp. infection. The microscopic findings, such as interstitial pneumonia, fibrinous necrotic enteritis markedly in ileum and paratyphoid nodules in various organs, are the most common aspects of the disease. However, fibrinous cholecystitis, which is considered pathognomonic for salmonellosis, was not observed in this study. Therefore, the absence of such a lesion should not exclude the disease in sick animals. A microscopic injury score was used to determine lesion severity by assigning values from 1 to 4, wherein: 1 = no apparent lesions, 2 = mild lesions, 3 = moderate lesions, and 4 = severe lesions. Both calves were scored as 4. Multiple predisposing factors for the condition were identified in this farm such as different age animals in the same paddock and no specific paddock for sick animals, given that the infectious agent remains in feces, saliva, and nasal discharge. The serovar Dublin induces several clinical signs such as septicemic, respiratory, and enteric manifestations, making a clinical diagnosis a challenge

Ressuscitação cardiorrespiratória em bezerros e potros neonatos: técnicas e eficácia / Cardiorespiratory resuscitation in neonatal calves and foals: technique and effectiveness

Pouco se sabe sobre os procedimentos envolvendo a ressuscitação cardiorrespiratória na medicina veterinária em geral. As informações a respeito de estudos feitos para obtenção de dados sobre tal assunto na medicina são extrapoladas para a medicina veterinária e aplicadas no dia a dia. Em animais de companhia, a técnica se torna mais facilmente realizada e com melhores taxas de sucesso quando comparada à sua utilização em grandes animais. Estes requerem maiores informações a respeito do assunto e validações sobre a eficácia das técnicas de compressão, ventilação, administração de fármacos e suporte pós-parada cardiorrespiratória (PCR). Sendo assim, tal revisão foi idealizada com o intuito de agregar informações para os profissionais da área e auxiliar na rotina de suporte geral dos neonatos de bovinos e equinos acometidos pela PCR.

Little is known about procedures involving cardiorespiratory resuscitation in veterinary medicine in general. Information regarding studies carried out to obtain data on this subject in medicine is extrapolated to veterinary medicine and applied in on a daily basis. In small animals, the technique becomes more easily performed and with better success rates when compared to large animals. These require more information about the subject and validations about the effectiveness of the techniques of compression, ventilation, drug administration and support post-cardiorespiratory arrest (CRA). Therefore, this review was carried out in order to add information to professionals of the area and assist in the general support routine for newborns of cattle and horses affected by CRA.

Ressuscitação cardiorrespiratória em bezerros e potros neonatos: técnicas e eficácia / Cardiorespiratory resuscitation in neonatal calves and foals: technique and effectiveness

Pouco se sabe sobre os procedimentos envolvendo a ressuscitação cardiorrespiratória na medicina veterinária em geral. As informações a respeito de estudos feitos para obtenção de dados sobre tal assunto na medicina são extrapoladas para a medicina veterinária e aplicadas no dia a dia. Em animais de companhia, a técnica se torna mais facilmente realizada e com melhores taxas de sucesso quando comparada à sua utilização em grandes animais. Estes requerem maiores informações a respeito do assunto e validações sobre a eficácia das técnicas de compressão, ventilação, administração de fármacos e suporte pós-parada cardiorrespiratória (PCR). Sendo assim, tal revisão foi idealizada com o intuito de agregar informações para os profissionais da área e auxiliar na rotina de suporte geral dos neonatos de bovinos e equinos acometidos pela PCR.(AU)

Little is known about procedures involving cardiorespiratory resuscitation in veterinary medicine in general. Information regarding studies carried out to obtain data on this subject in medicine is extrapolated to veterinary medicine and applied in on a daily basis. In small animals, the technique becomes more easily performed and with better success rates when compared to large animals. These require more information about the subject and validations about the effectiveness of the techniques of compression, ventilation, drug administration and support post-cardiorespiratory arrest (CRA). Therefore, this review was carried out in order to add information to professionals of the area and assist in the general support routine for newborns of cattle and horses affected by CRA.(AU)

Risk factors related to the appearance of umbilical disorders in dairy calves / [Fatores de risco relacionados ao surgimento de afecções umbilicais em bezerros leiteiros]

The objective of this study was to determine the types of calve housing used in dairy farms, the prevalence of umbilical disorders and related risk factors. The 16 farms studied were visited to characterize the types of installation and possible risk factors, as well as information obtained from a questionnaire applied to the farmers. 806 Holstein calves were physically examined, in addition to collecting blood samples for the evaluation of Failures in Passive Immunity Transfer (FPIT), in animals that manifested inflammatory omphalopathies, and were also submitted to ultrasound examination. The prevalence of omphalopathies was assessed by Fisher's test, and multivariate logistic regression to assess risk factors. Eight types of installation were found: tropical house, suspended cage, collective stall, collective picket, Argentinean type, single-story cage, individual stall, and collective picket with chain. Omphalopathies accounted for 6.45% of the calves. Small size farms (up to 99 lactation cows) had high risk for umbilical disorders, ground floor collective calves, without side protection, with sand floor, in closed sheds and without heatstroke were considered risk factors for omphalopathies. Adequate colostrum and umbilical antisepsis are not associated with disease, its appearance being related to the housing conditions of the animals.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar os tipos de alojamento para bezerros leiteiros, a prevalência de onfalopatias e os fatores de risco relacionados. As 16 fazendas estudadas foram visitadas buscando-se caracterizar os tipos de instalação e os possíveis fatores de risco, além de informações obtidas de um questionário aplicado aos fazendeiros. Foram examinados fisicamente 806 bezerros da raça Holandesa, além da coleta de amostras de sangue, para avaliação da falha de transferência de imunidade passiva (FTIP), nos animais que manifestaram onfalopatias inflamatórias, sendo submetidos também ao exame ultrassonográfico. A prevalência das onfalopatias foi avaliada por teste de Fisher, e foi feita regressão logística multivariada a fim de se avaliarem os fatores de risco. Verificou-se oito tipos de instalação: casinha tropical, gaiola suspensa, baia coletiva, piquete coletivo, bezerreiro tipo argentino, gaiola térrea, baia individual e piquete coletivo com corrente. As onfalopatias corresponderam a 6,45% dos bezerros. Os bezerreiros coletivos térreos, sem proteções laterais, com piso de areia, borracha, concreto ou madeira, em galpões fechados, sem insolação, com alta densidade animal, antissepsia umbilical realizada por três dias e FTIP acima de 50% foram considerados fatores de risco para onfalopatias e possuem relação com o bezerreiro, sendo decisivas para evitar essas condições a colostragem e a antissepsia umbilical adequadas.(AU)

A rare case of heteropaternal twin calves after natural mating in Brazil

Twin birth is a complex condition observed in most livestock animals, when the female gives birth to two or more offspring, generally out of the same mating. In cattle, it is a rare condition (3 to 5%) and depends on the genetic background and environmental factors. Twin birth is a result of multiple ovulations, being more common in dairy rather than in beef cattle. Calves could be monozygous or dizygous, with the same or of different sexes. When twins are born with different sexes, a sexual condition called Freemartinism occurs in between 90 to 97% of pregnancies, causing infertility in the female calf. Knowing that the twin rate is rare in commercial beef cattle, here we present an even rarer case of twin birth from two different sires after natural mating, also called heteropaternal superfecundation.

A rare case of heteropaternal twin calves after natural mating in Brazil

Twin birth is a complex condition observed in most livestock animals, when the female gives birth to two or more offspring, generally out of the same mating. In cattle, it is a rare condition (3 to 5%) and depends on the genetic background and environmental factors. Twin birth is a result of multiple ovulations, being more common in dairy rather than in beef cattle. Calves could be monozygous or dizygous, with the same or of different sexes. When twins are born with different sexes, a sexual condition called Freemartinism occurs in between 90 to 97% of pregnancies, causing infertility in the female calf. Knowing that the twin rate is rare in commercial beef cattle, here we present an even rarer case of twin birth from two different sires after natural mating, also called heteropaternal superfecundation.(AU)

Effect of parenteral vaccination of newborn Holstein calves against viral agents involved in bovine respiratory disease (BRD)

Background: Newborn calves are born immunosuppressed, hypogammaglobulinemic, immunologically immature, and therefore more vulnerable to many infectious diseases. During pregnancy, the fetal-placental environment is regulated by Th2-type cytokines that neutralize Th1 responses, an important factor for immune defense against viral agents. The ingestion and absorption of colostral immunoglobulins enhance the immunity of the neonate. However, the presence of maternal antibodies might negatively affect the success of parental vaccination in the first two months of life. This study aimed to evaluate the effecacy of parenteral vaccination in newborn calves with high titers of maternal antibodies against respiratory viruses. Materials, Methods & Results: Twenty-eight Holstein calves were allocated to the vaccinated group (VAC, n = 18) or an unvaccinated control group (NVAC, n = 10). The initial vaccination with 5 mL of a commercial vaccine occurred around the 14th day of life (D14) and the booster at D35. Respiratory and diarrhea symptoms were evaluated at D12, D14, D16, D20, D31, D36, D45, D53, and D60. Blood samples were taken for leukogram, haptoglobin, and seroneutralization of BVDV, BoHV-1, BRSV, and BPI3V, at the time of vaccination at D14 (T1), at booster (D35, T2), and 21 days after the booster (D56, T3). Despite the increased prevalence of BRD during the period of the study, no calves from either group exhibited respiratory disease at D12 or D14. In subsequent assessments, the frequency of BRD increased over time in the VAC group until it reached a maximum prevalence of 38.9% (7/18) at D31. In the NVAC group, the maximum prevalence observed was 40% at D45 and D60. A comparison of the frequencies for BRD cases showed a statistical trend at D36 (P = 0.07), with a higher prevalence for the NVAC group (30%) in relation to the VAC group (5.6%). For the NVAC group, a greater number of total...

Enrofloxacina de rápida ação associada ao tratamento com eletrólitos orais e reposição energética no tratamento de broncopneumonia neonatal em bezerros Holandeses / Fast action enrofloxacin associated with support treatment with oral electrolyte and energy replacement in the treatment of neonatal bronchopneumonia in Holstein calves

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar estratégias terapêuticas para o tratamento de infecções broncopulmonares, utilizando a enrofloxacina de ação rápida e sua associação com suporte e fluidoterapia endovenosa ou suporte e solução oral energética e eletrolítica, por meio da mensuração de parâmetros clínicos, hematológicos, bioquímicos e desenvolvimento corporal de neonatos bovinos. Foram utilizadas 35 bezerras da raça Holandesa, monitoradas desde o nascimento até a sexta semana de vida, divididas aleatoriamente nos grupos: grupo CONTROLE; grupo antibiótico; grupo antibiótico + suporte + fluidoterapia endovenosa; grupo antibiótico + suporte + solução oral; e grupo SUPORTE. Os parâmetros zootécnicos foram avaliados do nascimento até a sexta semana de vida, e os parâmetros hematológicos e bioquímicos foram avaliados zero, 24, 72 e 120 horas após diagnóstico da broncopneumonia. Os animais do grupo antibiótico + suporte + solução oral apresentaram menores níveis de eosinófilos e maiores níveis de neutrófilos segmentados em comparação aos animais dos demais grupos. Não houve diferença nos parâmetros zootécnicos avaliados. Neste estudo, o tratamento com antibiótico e solução oral ofereceu aos animais melhor aporte para combater a broncopneumonia, favorecendo o organismo a desenvolver uma resposta imune efetiva diante da infecção.(AU)

The objective of this study was to evaluate therapeutic strategies for treatment of bronchopulmonary infections using fast-acting enrofloxacin and its association with support and endovenous fluid or support and oral energy and electrolytic solution, by measuring clinical, hematological, biochemical and development parameters of bovine neonates. Thirty-five Holstein calves, monitored from birth to six weeks of age, were randomly divided into five groups: control group; antibiotic group; antibiotic group + support + intravenous fluid therapy; antibiotic group + support + oral solution; and support group. The performance parameters were evaluated from birth to the 6th week of age and hematological and biochemical parameters were evaluated 0, 24, 72 and 120 hours after diagnosis of bronchopneumonia. Calves of the antibiotic group + support + oral solution group presented lower levels of eosinophils and higher levels of segmented neutrophils compared to the other groups. There was no difference in performance parameters evaluated. In this study, the treatment with antibiotic and oral solution offered the animals had a better contribution to treat bronchopneumonia, favoring the organism to develop an effective immune response to that infection.(AU)

Enrofloxacina de rápida ação associada ao tratamento com eletrólitos orais e reposição energética no tratamento de broncopneumonia neonatal em bezerros Holandeses / Fast action enrofloxacin associated with support treatment with oral electrolyte and energy replacement in the treatment of neonatal bronchopneumonia in Holstein calves

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar estratégias terapêuticas para o tratamento de infecções broncopulmonares, utilizando a enrofloxacina de ação rápida e sua associação com suporte e fluidoterapia endovenosa ou suporte e solução oral energética e eletrolítica, por meio da mensuração de parâmetros clínicos, hematológicos, bioquímicos e desenvolvimento corporal de neonatos bovinos. Foram utilizadas 35 bezerras da raça Holandesa, monitoradas desde o nascimento até a sexta semana de vida, divididas aleatoriamente nos grupos: grupo CONTROLE; grupo antibiótico; grupo antibiótico + suporte + fluidoterapia endovenosa; grupo antibiótico + suporte + solução oral; e grupo SUPORTE. Os parâmetros zootécnicos foram avaliados do nascimento até a sexta semana de vida, e os parâmetros hematológicos e bioquímicos foram avaliados zero, 24, 72 e 120 horas após diagnóstico da broncopneumonia. Os animais do grupo antibiótico + suporte + solução oral apresentaram menores níveis de eosinófilos e maiores níveis de neutrófilos segmentados em comparação aos animais dos demais grupos. Não houve diferença nos parâmetros zootécnicos avaliados. Neste estudo, o tratamento com antibiótico e solução oral ofereceu aos animais melhor aporte para combater a broncopneumonia, favorecendo o organismo a desenvolver uma resposta imune efetiva diante da infecção.(AU)

The objective of this study was to evaluate therapeutic strategies for treatment of bronchopulmonary infections using fast-acting enrofloxacin and its association with support and endovenous fluid or support and oral energy and electrolytic solution, by measuring clinical, hematological, biochemical and development parameters of bovine neonates. Thirty-five Holstein calves, monitored from birth to six weeks of age, were randomly divided into five groups: control group; antibiotic group; antibiotic group + support + intravenous fluid therapy; antibiotic group + support + oral solution; and support group. The performance parameters were evaluated from birth to the 6th week of age and hematological and biochemical parameters were evaluated 0, 24, 72 and 120 hours after diagnosis of bronchopneumonia. Calves of the antibiotic group + support + oral solution group presented lower levels of eosinophils and higher levels of segmented neutrophils compared to the other groups. There was no difference in performance parameters evaluated. In this study, the treatment with antibiotic and oral solution offered the animals had a better contribution to treat bronchopneumonia, favoring the organism to develop an effective immune response to that infection.(AU)

Influence of gestation length, seasonality, and calf sex on birth weight and placental retention in crossbred dairy cows / Influência da duração da gestação, estação do ano, sexo e peso ao nascer do bezerro sobre a retenção placentária em vacas leiteiras mestiças

The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of gestation length, season at calving (autumn-winter vs. spring-summer) and calf sex on birth weight and incidence of retained placenta (RP) in crossbred lactating dairy cows. A total of 187 parturitions were evaluated in a commercial dairy farm at Alto Paranaiba region, Minas Gerais, Brazil. Cows that did not release the placental membranes within the first 12 hours after calf expulsion were diagnosed with RP. At birth, calf sex was registered, and birth weight was estimated by using a weighing tape. The incidence of RP was 36.89% (69/187). The mean birth weight of the calves (41.73 kg) did not differ among the calf sexes and seasons of the year at birth (P > 0.05), but the cows with below-average gestation lengths (274.4 days) calved lighter calves. Furthermore, the season of the year at calving and calf sex had no influence on RP incidence (P > 0.05), although a higher incidence of RP was observed in cows that had shorter gestation lengths (49.44%) and calves below-average birth weights (51.76%). In conclusion, cows with shorter gestation lengths produce lighter offspring and have a high predisposition to RP.

Objetivou-se avaliar a influência da duração da gestação, da estação do ano ao parto (outono-inverno vs. primavera-verão) e do sexo do bezerro sobre o peso ao nascimento, bem como os efeitos destas variáveis sobre a incidência de retenção de placenta (RP) em vacas leiteiras mestiças. Foram avaliados 187 partos em uma fazenda comercial leiteira na região do Alto Paranaíba, Minas Gerais, Brasil. Vacas que não liberaram os anexos placentários nas primeiras 12 horas após a expulsão do feto foram diagnosticadas com RP. Ao parto, o sexo da cria foi registrado e o peso ao nascer foi obtido por meio da fita de pesagem. A incidência de RP foi de 36,89% (69/187). O peso médio ao nascer dos bezerros (41,73 kg) não diferiu entre sexo e estação do ano ao nascimento (P > 0,05), porém vacas cuja gestação teve duração abaixo da média (274,4 dias) pariram bezerros mais leves. A estação do ano ao parto e o sexo da cria também não influenciaram a incidência de RP (P > 0,05), no entanto uma maior incidência de RP foi observada em vacas que apresentaram gestações de menor duração (49,44%) e cujas crias tiveram peso ao nascer abaixo da média (51,76%). Conclui-se que vacas com período de gestação curto comprometem o peso ao nascer dos bezerros e são mais susceptíveis à desenvolver retenção de placenta.

Influence of gestation length, seasonality, and calf sex on birth weight and placental retention in crossbred dairy cows / Influência da duração da gestação, estação do ano, sexo e peso ao nascer do bezerro sobre a retenção placentária em vacas leiteiras mestiças

The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of gestation length, season at calving (autumn-winter vs. spring-summer) and calf sex on birth weight and incidence of retained placenta (RP) in crossbred lactating dairy cows. A total of 187 parturitions were evaluated in a commercial dairy farm at Alto Paranaiba region, Minas Gerais, Brazil. Cows that did not release the placental membranes within the first 12 hours after calf expulsion were diagnosed with RP. At birth, calf sex was registered, and birth weight was estimated by using a weighing tape. The incidence of RP was 36.89% (69/187). The mean birth weight of the calves (41.73 kg) did not differ among the calf sexes and seasons of the year at birth (P > 0.05), but the cows with below-average gestation lengths (274.4 days) calved lighter calves. Furthermore, the season of the year at calving and calf sex had no influence on RP incidence (P > 0.05), although a higher incidence of RP was observed in cows that had shorter gestation lengths (49.44%) and calves below-average birth weights (51.76%). In conclusion, cows with shorter gestation lengths produce lighter offspring and have a high predisposition to RP.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar a influência da duração da gestação, da estação do ano ao parto (outono-inverno vs. primavera-verão) e do sexo do bezerro sobre o peso ao nascimento, bem como os efeitos destas variáveis sobre a incidência de retenção de placenta (RP) em vacas leiteiras mestiças. Foram avaliados 187 partos em uma fazenda comercial leiteira na região do Alto Paranaíba, Minas Gerais, Brasil. Vacas que não liberaram os anexos placentários nas primeiras 12 horas após a expulsão do feto foram diagnosticadas com RP. Ao parto, o sexo da cria foi registrado e o peso ao nascer foi obtido por meio da fita de pesagem. A incidência de RP foi de 36,89% (69/187). O peso médio ao nascer dos bezerros (41,73 kg) não diferiu entre sexo e estação do ano ao nascimento (P > 0,05), porém vacas cuja gestação teve duração abaixo da média (274,4 dias) pariram bezerros mais leves. A estação do ano ao parto e o sexo da cria também não influenciaram a incidência de RP (P > 0,05), no entanto uma maior incidência de RP foi observada em vacas que apresentaram gestações de menor duração (49,44%) e cujas crias tiveram peso ao nascer abaixo da média (51,76%). Conclui-se que vacas com período de gestação curto comprometem o peso ao nascer dos bezerros e são mais susceptíveis à desenvolver retenção de placenta.(AU)

Dynamics of dairy calf rearing systems during the suckling period: a conceptual model / Dinâmica do sistema de criação de bezerras no período de aleitamento: modelo conceitual

Behavioral studies help to understand the needs of animals and serve as a basis to justify  welfare criteria on farms. This study used the systems dynamics to identify causal loops that influence the behavior of dairy calves during suckling when kept in different housing systems (individual or collective in the presence or absence of a tactile stimulus). The results showed that the conceptual model of dairy calf development consists of three subsystems : (a) subsystem of growth with three reinforcing loops linked to the weight of the calves; (b) subsystem of social development with two reinforcing loops associated with calf learning and two balancing loops associated with reactivity, and (c) subsystem of thermoregulation with three balancing loops associated with body temperature and one reinforcing loop associated with thermal stress. In conclusion, conceptual modeling provided additional information  on the behavior of dairy calves by making explicit the interconnections between the subsystems that comprise the overall calf development system.(AU)

O estudo do comportamento ajuda a entender as necessidades dos animais e serve de base para justificar os critérios de bem-estar nas fazendas. Este trabalho utilizou a dinâmica de sistema para encontrar os ciclos causais que influenciam os comportamentos das bezerras leiteiras durante a fase de aleitamento, mantidas em diferentes sistemas de criação (individual ou coletivo com presença ou ausência de estímulo tátil). Como resultado da modelagem, o modelo conceitual de desenvolvimento de bezerras leiteiras possui três subsistemas: (a) subsistema de crescimento, onde existem três ciclos de reforço ligados ao peso das bezerras; (b) subsistema de desenvolvimento social com dois ciclos de reforço associados à aprendizagem das bezerras e dois ciclos de balanço associados à reatividade; e (c) subsistema de termorregulação com três ciclos de balanço associados à temperatura corporal e um ciclo de reforço associado ao estresse térmico. A modelagem conceitual proporcionou maiores informações sobe o comportamento de bezerras leiteiras por tornarem explicitas as integrações entre os subsistemas que compõem o sistema de desenvolvimento geral de bezerras.(AU)

Dynamics of dairy calf rearing systems during the suckling period: a conceptual model / Dinâmica do sistema de criação de bezerras no período de aleitamento: modelo conceitual

Behavioral studies help to understand the needs of animals and serve as a basis to justify  welfare criteria on farms. This study used the systems dynamics to identify causal loops that influence the behavior of dairy calves during suckling when kept in different housing systems (individual or collective in the presence or absence of a tactile stimulus). The results showed that the conceptual model of dairy calf development consists of three subsystems : (a) subsystem of growth with three reinforcing loops linked to the weight of the calves; (b) subsystem of social development with two reinforcing loops associated with calf learning and two balancing loops associated with reactivity, and (c) subsystem of thermoregulation with three balancing loops associated with body temperature and one reinforcing loop associated with thermal stress. In conclusion, conceptual modeling provided additional information  on the behavior of dairy calves by making explicit the interconnections between the subsystems that comprise the overall calf development system.

O estudo do comportamento ajuda a entender as necessidades dos animais e serve de base para justificar os critérios de bem-estar nas fazendas. Este trabalho utilizou a dinâmica de sistema para encontrar os ciclos causais que influenciam os comportamentos das bezerras leiteiras durante a fase de aleitamento, mantidas em diferentes sistemas de criação (individual ou coletivo com presença ou ausência de estímulo tátil). Como resultado da modelagem, o modelo conceitual de desenvolvimento de bezerras leiteiras possui três subsistemas: (a) subsistema de crescimento, onde existem três ciclos de reforço ligados ao peso das bezerras; (b) subsistema de desenvolvimento social com dois ciclos de reforço associados à aprendizagem das bezerras e dois ciclos de balanço associados à reatividade; e (c) subsistema de termorregulação com três ciclos de balanço associados à temperatura corporal e um ciclo de reforço associado ao estresse térmico. A modelagem conceitual proporcionou maiores informações sobe o comportamento de bezerras leiteiras por tornarem explicitas as integrações entre os subsistemas que compõem o sistema de desenvolvimento geral de bezerras.

Fatal systemic Mortierella wolfii infection in a neonatal calf in southern Brazil / Infecção sistêmica fatal por Mortierella wolfii em um bezerro neonato na região Sul do Brasil

This study described the pathological and microbiological aspects of a fatal systemic Mortierella wolfii infection in a neonatal calf in southern Brazil. The calf was born clinically normal, but on the third day of life it presented apathy, unilateral hypopyon, and neurological signs, and in the next day it was euthanized. At necropsy, multiple soft, and white-yellow nodules were observed in the liver, spleen, kidneys, mesenteric lymph nodes, heart, and lungs. In the brain, reddish, and friable areas were found. In the eye, there were anterior and posterior synechiae, diffuse thickening of choroid, and anterior chamber filled by whitish and friable material. Microscopically, areas of necrosis, pyogranulomatous inflammation, vasculitis, thrombosis, and intralesional fungal hyphae were observed, and the latter were better evidenced through Grocott Methenamine Silver technique. The fungus was identified as M. wolfii through mycological culture and molecular methods. To our knowledge, this is the first description of systemic disease caused by M. wolfii in a neonatal calf outside of Oceania.(AU)

Descrevem-se os aspectos patológicos e microbiológicos de uma infecção sistêmica fatal por Mortierella wolfii em um bezerro neonato na região Sul do Brasil. O bezerro nasceu clinicamente normal, porém no terceiro dia de vida apresentou apatia, hipópion unilateral e sinais neurológicos, e no dia seguinte foi submetido à eutanásia. Na necropsia, foram observados múltiplos nódulos macios e branco-amarelados no fígado, baço, rins, linfonodos mesentéricos, coração e pulmões. No encéfalo, havia áreas avermelhadas e friáveis. No olho, notou-se sinéquia anterior e posterior, espessamento difuso da coroide, e câmara anterior preenchida por material brancacento e friável. Histologicamente, foram observadas áreas de necrose, inflamação piogranulomatosa, vasculite, trombose e hifas fúngicas intralesionais, que foram melhor visualizadas por meio da técnica de Prata Metenamina de Grocott. O fungo foi identificado como M. wolfii por meio da cultura micológica e técnicas moleculares. Com base no conhecimento dos autores, este é o primeiro relato de doença sistêmica causada por M. wolfii em um bezerro neonato fora da Oceania.(AU)