First documentation of a jaguar (Panthera onca) with otitis caused by Otobius megnini (Dugés 1883).

Otobius megnini (spinose ear tick) is a cosmopolitan soft tick that parasitizes domestic and wild mammals, as well as humans. The larval and nymphal stages are common parasites that feed on blood inside the canal ears of hosts, while adults are nonfeeding and live off the host. Different nymphal stages of O. megnini were collected from a jaguar (Panthera onca) suffering from otitis in captive conditions from Guerrero, Mexico. This is the first documentation worldwide of O. megnini in a jaguar with otitis. The presence of this tick species represents a risk of transmission to animals and humans exposed to the nymphal stages of the tick.

Equine endometrial bacteria inhibition by metabolite and extracellular vesicles of Lactobacillus acidophilus and lactiplantibacillus plantarum.

Endometritis is one of the main reproductive disorders in mares and due to the increasing prevalence of antibiotic resistance, the use of probiotics in the prevention and treatment of endometritis in mares has gained interest, given their potential to restore and maintain a healthy uterine microbiota. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial properties of total metabolites of Lactobacillus acidophilus (LA) and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (LP) against common equine endometrial pathogenic bacteria in vitro (Acinetobacter baumannii, Escherichia coli (1), Escherichia coli (2), Escherichia coli (3), Escherichia coli (4), Enterobacter cloacae, Streptococcus equi, Staphylococcus warneri, Actinobacillus equi and Klebesiella pneumoniae), as well as to assess their low molecular weight metabolites (loM) and extracellular vesicle (EVs) inhibition capacity over a multidrug-resistant E. coli isolated from mares with clinical endometritis. The total metabolites of LA showed better inhibition on A. baumannii, E. coli (1) and E. cloacae, while those of LP inhibited E. coli (4), S. equi and A. equi. Besides total metabolites, loM of LA and LP can inhibit E. coli. LA EVs were more effective in preventing E. coli (2) compared to LA loM, while LP EVs presented inhibition but below 90%. The use of LA and LP in the mare's uterus may be an interesting approach to controlling endometritis. In addition to metabolites, EVs can contribute to the inhibition of multidrug-resistant E. coli.

Comparative analysis of Piezo-ICSI and conventional ICSI in bovine embryo development.

Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is an assisted reproductive technique (ART) mainly used to overcome severe male factor infertility problems in humans and animals. However, in cattle, one of the most demanded species for its meat and milk, the efficiency of this technique is low. The present study compared the effect of the piezoelectric and conventional injection systems on the preimplantational development and quality of bovine embryos generated by ICSI. Evaluations of the conditions for performing the Piezo-ICSI procedure showed that the application of a strong pulse (I4S7) was more effective in damaging the sperm plasma and acrosomal membranes prior to injection, compared to a soft pulse (I2S2, P < 0.05). In addition, Piezo-ICSI embryos without the application of exogenous activators achieved similar levels of development as Piezo-ICSI embryos activated with ionomycin and anisomycin (P > 0.05). When comparing conventional and piezoelectric injection systems, no significant differences in embryo development were observed (P > 0.05). However, embryos generated by Piezo-ICSI showed a higher embryo quality in terms of total cell number (P < 0.05). In addition, Piezo-ICSI embryos showed an expression profile of genes essential for embryonic development similar to IVF embryos (P > 0.05), in contrast to conventional ICSI-derived embryos, which presented overexpression of CASP3 and IFNT2 (P < 0.05). In conclusion, we confirmed that Piezo-ICSI is a more convenient approach than traditional ICSI, since does not require exogenous activation and generate embryos of better quality, regarding the total number of blastomeres and the pattern of gene expression observed.

Serial frequent or multiple Tru-cut® testicular biopsies in rams enable assessment of histological characteristics or transcriptional profiles, with no acute or chronic adverse effects.

This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of performing multiple testicular biopsies in rams using Tru-cut® needles, assessing histological structure, gene expression, and potential complications such as effects on semen quality, testicular blood flow, and ultrasonographic echotexture. In Exp. 1, six mature rams underwent testicular biopsies at intervals (0, 3, 6, 12, 24, and 48 h) using a 16 G Tru-cut® needle, with alternating testes for each collection. Benzathine benzylpenicillin and flunixin meglumine were administered for infection and inflammation control. Local anesthesia and post-biopsy care included lidocaine, digital pressure, and ice application. Testicular samples were analyzed for gene expression related to inflammation, oxidative stress, and steroidogenesis. Semen quality was assessed pre-biopsy and 28 days post-biopsy. Ultrasonographic evaluations of the scrotum and testes were conducted before biopsies and on days 5, 9, 13, 17, and 21 post-biopsies. In Exp. 2, a second group of six mature rams underwent biopsies using 14 G needles, with two samples taken from each testis. Samples were histologically examined for structural preservation. Scrotal skin temperature was measured using infrared thermography, and testicular blood flow was assessed via color Doppler ultrasonography, with measurements taken before and on days 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 25, 50, 75, and 100 post-biopsies. Semen collection followed the same schedule as in Exp. 1. In Exp. 3, biopsies were performed on different testicular regions (upper, middle, lower) using 12 G, 14 G, and 16 G needles to compare structural preservation. Samples were histologically analyzed. No clinical signs of injury, inflammation, or fluid accumulation were observed. Scrotal pain, increased temperature, swelling, and bleeding were absent, and behavioral signs indicative of pain were not detected. Gene expression remained unchanged, and no significant alterations in seminal characteristics or testicular echogenicity were observed. A slight increase in resistivity and pulsatility indices was noted in Exp. 2. Biopsies with 14 G and 16 G needles resulted in structural disruptions, while 12 G needles better preserved testicular parenchyma. Multiple testicular biopsies using Tru-cut® needles did not cause significant morphological changes, alter transcriptional profiles, or affect semen or ultrasonographic characteristics, demonstrating that this method is viable for monitoring acute molecular changes in the testes.

Increased in vitro production of bovine embryos resulting from oocyte maturation in the presence of triciribine, a specific inhibitor of AKT.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of different concentrations of triciribine, a selective Akt inhibitor, on various aspects of oocyte maturation and on the IVF of bovine embryos. Cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were matured in vitro in medium supplemented with: 0 (control), 1, 5, 10, and 20 µM of triciribine. The nuclear maturation was assessed by staining with acetic orcein, while the cytoplasmic maturation was evaluated by mitochondrial (MitoTracker® Red CMXRos) and lipid droplets distribution (LipidTOX). COCs were fertilized in vitro and cultured for nine days. Cleavage rates, blastocyst production, and hatching rates were determined on days three, seven, and nine of in vitro culture, respectively. Oocytes from COCs treated with 1 µM of triciribine were stained at 3, 6, and 9 h of IVM to determine the inhibitor's involvement in germinal vesicle breakdown. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) of the data was performed and the means were compared using the SNK test at a 5 % significance level. Exposure of COCs to 1, 5, and 10 µM of triciribine did not alter the number of matured oocytes (P < 0.05), a concentration of 20 µM reduced the number of oocytes in MII with a consequent increase in oocytes in MI (P < 0.05). This concentration markedly reduced the number of oocytes with peripheral cortical granules and the rates of cleavage and blastocysts (P < 0.05). On the other hand, when COCs were matured in the presence of 1 µM, there was an increase in the blastocyst rate (P < 0.05), but without altering the timing of meiosis resumption (P < 0.05). It is concluded that the Akt pathway participates in the nuclear and cytoplasmic events of in vitro maturation of bovine oocytes, but through mechanisms that do not interfere with germinal vesicle breakdown. Modulation of Akt activity in bovine COCs during IVM with 1 µM of triciribine increases the in vitro production of bovine embryos.

Periovulatory anticoagulant therapy enhances embryo recovery rates in superovulated mares.

Although protocols for superovulation have been described in horses, this technique has been discouraged due to the low embryo recovery rates in superovulated mares. The reason for these poor results is poorly understood, but the formation of a blood clot in the ovulation fossa following ovulations has been hypothesized. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the safety and effect of periovulatory anticoagulant therapy on embryo recovery of superovulated mares. In experiment 1, five mares were assigned to receive five anticoagulant treatments in a crossover design: intravenous injections of 150 (H1), 300 (H2), 400 (H3), 450 (H4), 600 (H5) IU/kg of unfractionated heparin (UFH, heparin sodium); and had blood samples sequentially collected for up to 48 h post-treatment to test Prothrombin (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT). In experiment 2, four mares were treated in a crossover design with intravenous injection of 450 IU/kg of UFH and 1 mg/kg of low molecular weight heparin (LMWH, enoxaparin) and had blood collected as previously for analysis of plasma anti-Xa activity. In experiment 3, eleven mares had four cycles randomly assigned to four groups. In the control group, mares did not receive any treatment. In contrast, in groups G1, G2, and G3, mares were superovulated with equine pituitary extract and treated 34 h after the induction of ovulation with a placebo (NaCl 0.9 %, G1), 450 IU/kg of UFH (G2), or 1 mg/kg of LMWH. Mares in all groups had ovulation induced with hCG plus histrelin acetate and were bred with fresh semen from one stallion. Embryo flushing was performed nine days post-ovulation. In experiment 1, only mares in groups H4 and H5 had increased aPTT and PT for up to 12 h, and in all groups, aPTT and PT values returned to baselines at 24 h post-treatment. In experiment 2, plasma anti-Xa activity was increased by both therapies for up to 12 h after treatment and was at baseline levels 24 h post-treatment. In experiment 3, periovulatory therapy with anticoagulants increased embryo recovery rates per cycle (G2, 250 %; G3, 260 %) compared to control-assigned cycles (60 %; P < 0.05), whereas G1-assigned cycles (160 %) had intermediate embryo recovery. In conclusion, periovulatory anticoagulant therapies may be an alternative to improve embryo recovery in superovulated mares.

The future of beef production in South America.

South American beef production varies due to diverse climates, environmental conditions, animal breeds (Bos indicus, Bos taurus and crossbreeds), management strategies, and nutritional sources. Applying technology in the South American beef production system can significantly enhance efficiency, sustainability, and profitability. Reproductive efficiency is a significant challenge, especially in cow-calf operation systems conducted under adverse conditions. Consequently, implementing effective assisted reproduction technologies (ART) can make a significant contribution. In the last two decades, the development of fixed-time artificial insemination (FTAI) protocols permitted the widespread application of artificial insemination for breeding management and genetic improvement in beef herds in South America. Nowadays, FTAI is being applied in South America in large-scale programs, with around 20 % of heifers and cows receiving this technology every year. This results in a greater calving rate and significant genetic gain occurring in this territory. Also, in vitro embryo production, mainly using sex-selected sperm has been widely applied in this region, leading to significant improvements in herd genetics and productivity. Recently, 94 % of all embryo transfers in South America consist of in vitro-produced embryos (41,429 being in vivo-derived and 650,782 being in vitro-produced embryos), mainly using fixed-time embryo transfer technology (FTET). Genomic selection combined with in vitro embryo production with oocytes from heifer calves provides a powerful technology platform to reduce generation interval and significantly increase the rate of genetic gain in beef cattle. Emerging biotechnologies, such as genome editing via the CRISPR/Cas system, are being developed to enhance productivity, confer resilience to adverse environmental conditions, increase disease resistance, and control pest species that affect livestock. Finally, while all these technologies offer significant potential, further progresses are needed to transform livestock production. The vast geographical scale and diverse climates of South America make regional knowledge crucial for aligning beef production with sustainability goals and supporting global food security.

New records of Trichinella patagoniensis from Argentina.

Trichinella spiralis was long considered the sole Trichinella species in Argentina. However, since 2004, various Trichinella species, including the encapsulated Trichinella patagoniensis and Trichinella britovi, as well as the unencapsulated Trichinella pseudospiralis, have been detected in the country. The present study aimed to identify Trichinella ML at the species level from cougars naturally infected from Argentina. To this end, muscle tissue samples from one cougar each from Córdoba, Neuquén, and Santa Cruz Provinces were individually analysed using the artificial digestion technique. DNA extraction and molecular identification of Trichinella species were conducted on individual muscle larvae by PCR amplification of the ESV region and subsequent PCR amplification and sequencing of the COI gene. Morphological analysis revealed muscle larvae with characteristics consistent with Trichinella genus. PCR revealed a single band of approximately 127 bp for each individual muscle larva. PCR amplification of the COI gene from each isolate generated a 309 bp band. Sequencing of the mitochondrial COI gene confirmed the identity of the parasite as T. patagoniensis. The present study documents new occurrences of T. patagoniensis in Puma concolor from Argentina, including the first detection of T. patagoniensis in Puma concolor from Córdoba and Neuquén Province. These findings expand the limited knowledge of T. patagoniensis distribution in Argentina.

Supplemental description of Benedenia seriolae (Yamaguti, 1934) Meserve, 1938 (Monogenoidea: Capsalidae) and first record of the parasite infecting a wild greater amberjack, Seriola dumerili (Risso, 1810) Hureau and Tortonese, 1973 (Carangiformes: Carangidae) from the northern Gulf of Mexico.

We herein provide a supplemental description of Benedenia seriolae (Yamaguti, 1934) Meserve, 1938 (Monogenoidea: Capsalidae Baird, 1853) based on specimens we collected from the skin of wild-caught greater amberjack (Seriola dumerili) in the northern Gulf of Mexico (GOM). Our specimens of B. seriolae from the GOM resemble those of Benedenia humboldti Baeza, Sepúlveda, and González, 2019 (from yellowtail amberjack, Seriola lalandi Valenciennes, 1833 [Carangidae] off Chile) by having a large body (>7000 µm in total length), non-overlapping anterior and posterior hamuli, an entirely sinistral and convoluted vas deferens, and a common genital pore as well as by lacking glands of Goto. It differs from B. humboldti by the shape of the penis tip. The 28S rRNA gene sequence differed from that of B. seriolae (from Japan) by 8 bp (1.1 %) and B. humboldti by 13 bp (2.8 %-1.7 %). The phylogenetic analysis recovered our sequences of B. seriolae sister to conspecific sequences from Japan, with that clade sister to B. humboldti from Chile. Benedenia was paraphyletic, suggesting some systematic revision to the genus could be warranted. Of 25 Benedenia spp., only Benedenia hendorffii (von Linstow, 1889) Odhner, 1905 had been reported previously from the GOM. Benedenia seriolae had previously not been reported from wild greater amberjack (previous records from greater amberjack were from sea cages only). This is also the first record of B. seriolae from the Northwestern Atlantic Ocean (GOM).

Shape variability and morphological discrimination of haptoral attachment structures in Urocleidoides spp. Mizelle et Price, 1964 (Monogenea: Dactylogyridae) parasitizing fish from neotropical rivers in southern Mexico.

The morphology of attachment organs in Monogenea is an essential source of evidence for taxonomic assessments and understanding of ecology and evolutionary history. It has been demonstrated that geometric morphometry analysis of the haptoral attachment organs provides rich and precise information about monogeneans morphology. In this study, we consider three monogenean species of Urocleidoides, U. simonae, U. vaginoclaustrum, U. vaginoclaustroides, and the incertae sedis species U. strombicirrus that parasitize fish of the Poeciliidae, Profundulidae and Characidae in neotropical rivers in southern Mexico. We aimed to identify new morphological characteristics that can be used to describe these populations with greater certainty and to test whether these characteristics present geographic variation. Anchor shape data (n = 69) were generated using geometric morphometric methods. We discriminated species using principal components and canonical variate analysis of shape data. Our results showed that there was discernible interspecific variation. The four species contributed four new morphological characteristics: anchor point length, short versus long anchor roots, elongated versus wide anchor shape, and the relative length of inner versus outer roots. Intraspecific variation was relatively low compared to interspecific anchor shape variation in Urocleidoides spp. These new morphological characteristics may also be useful for delimiting other similar species in Monogenea.

Respiratory System of the Two-Toed Sloth (Choloepus didactylus): Macroscopic, Histological and Scanning Electron Microscopy Analysis.

Relatively little research has been conducted regarding Choloepus didactylus and studies that have been done have mainly covered physiology and morphology, as well as studies on its respiratory system. The objective of this study was to describe the components of the respiratory system of the two-toed sloth and compare it with other species already described in the literature. For this purpose, eight adult animals were used. Macroscopic analyses were carried out on the organs that make up the respiratory system, which confirmed the existence of four cartilages of the larynx, trachea with an average of 37 incomplete tracheal cartilages and lung, highlighting the absence of the accessory pulmonary lobe being composed only of the right cranial and caudal, left cranial and caudal lobes. After the standard protocol, microscopic analyses of fragments of the organs evidenced in the macroscopic study were carried out, using optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy, in addition to chest x-rays with positive contrast media through orotracheal intubation. Finally, we conclude that microscopically the respiratory system of the two-toed sloth is like other Xenarthra and some domestic animals. Macroscopically, the nose is like Choloepus hoffmanni, the nasal cavity to other species of Xenarthra already described in addition to domestic animals. The trachea differs from other species in terms of the number of tracheal rings and extension. As for the lungs, they were the ones that differed most when compared to other Xenarthra and to domestic animals as it was the species with the least lobation.

Effects of altrenogest supplementation in late lactation on reproductive performance of primiparous sows.

Genetic selection for hyperprolific sows resulted in higher proportion of low birthweight piglets and greater birthweight variation within the litter, increasing preweaning mortality. There is evidence that altrenogest supplementation improves post-weaning reproductive performance through higher ovulation rates, and increased embryo survival. This study aimed to evaluate the impacts of altrenogest supplementation during the last week of lactation in primiparous sows on subsequent reproductive performance. Ninety-six primiparous females were randomly assigned to two treatments: ALT-sows supplemented orally with 20 mg of altrenogest (n = 46) during the last six days of lactation up to 24 h before weaning; and CON- non-supplemented sows (n = 50). Ten sows from each experimental group were randomly selected to evaluate plasma progesterone concentrations on days 1 and 3 of treatment, at weaning and at 48, 72 and 96 h after estrus onset. Farrowings were monitored and piglets' individual birthweight, total number of piglets born, born alive, stillborn and mummified were recorded. Stillborn piglets were necropsied to assess organ weight. A subgroup of five females per treatment was euthanized on the day of estrus onset for morphological analysis of the reproductive tract. ALT females showed higher progesterone levels 72h after estrus onset (P < 0.05). Moreover, piglets' birthweight, total number of piglets born, liveborn, stillborn, and mummified were similar between experimental groups. Data collected from stillborn necropsies showed that birthweight was the main factor affecting organ weights (P < 0.05). Correlation analysis revealed that piglets weighing 600-800g presented higher brain:liver weight ratio, a determinant factor of intrauterine growth restriction, which was predominant in males (P < 0.05), and ALT females showed fewer piglets within that birthweight range (P < 0.05). Interestingly, ALT sows showed higher number, but smaller endometrial glands (P < 0.05). Taken together, short-term altrenogest supplementation in the last week of lactation increased progesterone levels after estrus onset, improving uterine vascularization and endometrial glands hyperplasia in the pre-implantation period, which benefit embryo development, leading to a decrease in the proportion of low birthweight piglets.

Behavioral red flags for optimizing castration-induced acute pain diagnosis in cattle.

Unesp-Botucatu Cattle Pain Scale (UCAPS) is widely used in experimental settings, however the high number of UCAPS behaviors might represent a barrier to its implementation in the farm's or hospital's routine. We aimed to identify a smaller combination of UCAPS behaviors that could be used as behavioral red flags for optimizing the acute pain diagnosis in cattle. We hypothesize that a specific set of UCAPS behaviors might be used as behavioral red flags for pain. This would represent a quick and simple pain evaluation and might optimize the acute pain assessment in large-scale systems. Data from two previous studies regarding UCAPS assessments before (pain free condition) and after (painful condition) surgical castration of 59 male cattle was used. We fitted a decision tree, resulting in a logic with two behaviors that we used as behavioral red flags. The logic adapted from the decision tree considered the painful diagnosis when the Activity was scored 2. When Activity was scored less than 2, but Locomotion was scored 1 or 2, the diagnosis was also considered positive for pain. When Activity was below 2 and Locomotion was 0, the diagnosis was considered free pain. Behavioral red flags had an area under the curve of 95.95 % for predicting UCAPS diagnosis and 94.13 % for predicting overall pain free and painful conditions. In conclusion, behaviors in the decision tree logic can work as behavioral red flags for optimizing the acute pain diagnosis in cattle, as a quick assessment in large-scale systems.

Seasonal dynamics of gastrointestinal helminths in naturally infected horses in Brazil.

Helminthiasis in horse breeding stands out due to the damage caused by this infection, which is mainly controlled by anthelmintic drugs. Knowing the population dynamics of helminths in a given region is therefore essential, as environmental conditions have a major impact on the development of these parasites in pastures. The aim of this study was to assess the influence of seasonality on helminths. It was carried out between October and September of the years 2015/2016, 2018/2019 and 2021/2022. A total of 147 animals were used, 64 females and 83 males, all from the same herd. Fecal samples were collected directly from the rectal ampulla of each animal every 28 days for 12 months of each cycle for coproparasitological analysis. Average air temperature, average relative humidity and rainfall were measured daily. The weather records were collected by the Agroclimatological Station in Castilho, SP (21o 05' 12.4" S; 51o 35' 17.2" W), located six kilometers from the experiment site. In the three study cycles, the EPG and rainfall averages showed significant differences between the times of year. In general, the month with the highest EPG in the different cycles was February, with 1626 in 2015/2016, 926.7 in 2018/2019 and 1885 in 2021/2022, and the month with the lowest average EPG was July, with 642 in 2015/2016, 610.5 in 2018/2019 and 804 in 2021/2022. Regarding climatic conditions, rainfall was more concentrated in two seasons, spring and summer, meaning that summer was the season with the highest rainfall in the three cycles evaluated. Autumn, followed by winter were the seasons with the lowest rainfall during the cycles studied. It can be concluded that climatic conditions have a direct influence on the population dynamics of helminths, and that during the drier and colder seasons, horses were less affected, so the suggestion for a possible strategic program would be to concentrate the administration of anthelmintics in spring and summer.

Genomic analysis of genotype-environment interaction in age at first calving of Murrah buffaloes.

Age at first calving (AFC) is a measure of sexual maturity associated with the start of productive life of dairy animals. Additionally, a lower AFC reduces the generation interval and early culling of females. However, AFC has low heritability, making it a trait highly influenced by environmental factors. In this scenario, one way to improve the reproductive performance of buffalo cows is to select robust animals according to estimated breeding value (EBV) using models that include genotype-environment interaction (GEI) with the application of reaction norm models (RNMs). This can be achieved by understanding the genomic basis related to GEI of AFC. Thus, in this study, we aimed to predict EBV considering GEI via the RNM and identify candidate genes related to this component in dairy buffaloes through genome-wide association studies (GWAS). We used 1795 AFC records from three Murrah buffalo herds and formed environmental gradients (EGs) from contemporary group solutions obtained from genetic analysis of 270-day cumulative milk yield. Heritability estimates ranged from 0.15 to 0.39 along the EG. GWAS of the RNM slope parameter identified important genomic regions. The genomic window that explained the highest percentage of genetic variance of the slope (0.67%) was located on BBU1. After functional analysis, five candidate genes were detected, involved in two biological processes. The results suggested the existence of a GEI for AFC in Murrah buffaloes, with reclassification of animals when different environmental conditions were considered. The inclusion of genomic information increased the accuracy of breeding values for the intercept and slope of the reaction norm. GWAS analysis suggested that important genes associated with the AFC reaction norm slope were possibly also involved in biological processes related to lipid metabolism and immunity.

Effect of refrigeration, room temperature, and processing time on serum immunofluorescent antibody titers for Sarcocystis neurona.

BACKGROUND: Evaluating antibody titers for Sarcocystis neurona for the diagnosis of equine protozoal myeloencephalitis from serum samples is a common practice. However, ensuring timely and proper refrigeration is not always possible. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate immunofluorescent antibody (IFA) titers for S. neurona from serum samples stored at room temperature and 4°C. SAMPLES: Twenty-two serum samples. METHODS: Prospective longitudinal study. Two serum aliquots of 1 mL each were stored at room temperature (20-23.3°C) and 4°C. The unrefrigerated aliquot was immediately tested for IFA titers. Both aliquots were retested on Days 5 and 10 after collection. A paired t test was used to compare IFA titers at different time points. RESULTS: There was no significant difference between IFA titers from baseline with those stored at room temperature at Days 5 (P = .741, 95% CI [-56.83, 78.65]), 10 (P = .677, 95% CI [-50.01, 75.46]), and between 5 and 10 days (P = 0.949, 95% CI [-57.50, 61.14]). There was no significant difference from baseline with those stored at 4°C for Days 5 (P = .964, 95% CI [-81.81, 85.45]), 10 (P = 0.573, 95% CI [-109.4, 62.15]), and between 5 and 10 days (P = .5, 95% CI [-102.6, 51.67]). There was no statistical difference between samples stored at room temperature and 4°C (P = .688, CI [-55.51, 37.33]) on Days 5 and 10 (P = .104, CI [-80.8, 8.07]). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: Immunofluorescent antibody test titers for S. neurona are stable for up to 10 days at room temperature and 4°C.

Impact of production practices and sanitary management on the prevalence of Neospora caninum and bluetongue virus in Creole goats from the tropical dry forest of Utcubamba, Peru.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to report the impact of production practices and sanitary management on the prevalence of Neospora caninum (N caninum) and bluetongue virus (BTV) in Creole goats from the tropical dry forest of Utcubamba, Peru. METHODS: 354 blood samples were obtained from male and female goats of diverse ages reared under an extensive productive system. The diagnosis of N caninum and BTV was conducted through a commercial ELISA kit (iD.vet) with readings taken on a Bio-Rad iMark microplate reader at 450 nm. Additionally, a survey was conducted with 18 goat producers to categorize them based on social, technical (production, health, reproduction, nutrition, and infrastructure), environmental, and economic factors. RESULTS: The overall seroprevalence of N caninum and BTV in goats was 6.21% and 7.06%, respectively, Notably, group II farmers had the highest prevalence rates at 7.69% for N caninum and 23.08% for BTV. This group comprises producers with fewer than 21 goats, while group III includes 14.3% of producers with over 60 goats and better infrastructure. CONCLUSIONS: This study confirms the presence of N caninum and BTV in goats of Utcubamba, Peru. Group II displayed the highest prevalence rates, suggesting that herd size and management infrastructure influence disease prevalence. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: In the tropical dry forest of Utcubamba, inadequate management of N caninum carrier agents (eg, nondewormed dogs) heightens transmission risk, while the tropical climate supports BTV vectors. Effective diagnosis and health management strategies, including vector control and biosecurity practices, are crucial for ongoing herd health monitoring.

Exposure Practices to Animal-Origin Influenza A Virus at the Animal-Human Interface in Poultry and Swine Backyard Farms.

AIM: Backyard production systems (BPS) represent an interface of contact between people, domestic and wild animals. Studies conducted in Chile during the last decade have provided extensive evidence of influenza A virus (IAV) circulation in backyard poultry and swine. The aim of this study was to investigate exposure practices of humans to animal-origin IAV within backyards. METHODS AND RESULTS: Backyard farmers and household members of a total of 101 BPS in the proximity of wetlands located throughout Chile were interviewed between 2021 and 2022. Data were collected on the nature of human-animal contacts through participation in productive activities conducted within backyards, which was used to estimate participants' exposure risk to animal-origin IAV. Additionally, RT-qPCR and serologic IAV active surveillance was carried out in backyard animals. Multilinear regression was used to identify factors associated with exposure risk. Overall, IAV prevalence was 10.1% (95% CI: 4.7%-15.5%) and seroprevalence was 43.5% (95% CI: 29.7%-54.2%), both at the BPS level. Of 180 interviewees, 86% reported participating regularly in poultry or swine exposure activities within the backyard. A greater participation of male participants was observed when evaluating swine exposure activities, while female participation was greater for some activities related to poultry handling. Handwashing was a very extended hygiene practice; however, the use of personal protective equipment was uncommon. Different factors related to participants, households and backyards were associated with an increased exposure risk of participants to animal-origin IAV: (i) older age, (ii) less years of education, (iii) no off-farm work, (iv) greater backyard production value and (v) greater household consumption of backyard products. CONCLUSION: These results indicate the circulation of IAV in BPS and the frequent human-animal contact at this interface, highlighting the need for awareness campaigns and educational programmes aimed at backyard farmers on prevention and biosecurity measures in the management of backyard animals.

Subacute and chronic toxic hepatopathy in cattle grazing pasture with Crotalaria spectabilis.

This report describes subacute and chronic toxic hepatopathy in cattle due to Crotalaria spectabilis poisoning. A total of 200 male Nellore cattle were introduced into a paddock contaminated with C. spectabilis. After spending 20 days grazing in this area, 6 cattle became ill and died. The remaining 194 cattle were moved to non-contaminated pasture in a nearby farm and, 45 days after arrival, 15 cattle became ill and died. Three affected cattle were necropsied. The main clinical changes consisted of anorexia, isolation from the herd, weight loss, jaundice, recumbency, and death. The primary lesions were observed in the liver. Subacutely poisoned cattle had slightly firm livers with an accentuated lobular pattern. Histologically, hepatocyte loss with dilated sinusoids, hepatomegalocytosis, and fibrosis was observed. Cattle with chronic disease had small, pale, firm livers with an irregular hepatic capsular surface. Microscopic changes included hepatocyte loss, hepatomegalocytosis, bile duct proliferation, and fibrosis.

Dynamics of Feline Sporotrichosis in Espírito Santo, Brazil: Impact of Urbanisation.

INTRODUCTION: Sporotrichosis is a chronic infectious mycosis caused by traumatic implantation of Sporothrix spp., which poses a significant challenge to public health because of its zoonotic nature. It affects humans and other animals, particularly cats. This study investigated epidemiological trends and spatial distribution of feline sporotrichosis in Espírito Santo between 2017 and 2022. METHODS: This study collected diagnostic data on sporotrichosis from the Veterinary Pathology Laboratory and Center for Infectious Diseases in Espírito Santo from 2017 to 2022. Statistical analyses were performed using STATA and spatial analyses were performed using ArcGIS software to create maps and identify hotspots. Kernel density estimation and directional mean statistics were applied to visualise the disease concentration and transmission trends. RESULTS: The results showed a significant increase in feline sporotrichosis cases in Espírito Santo from 2017 to 2022, with hotspots identified in urban and densely populated areas. Anchieta, Aracruz and Vila Velha reported the highest numbers of cases. Spatial analysis indicated a spread towards the central and northern coastal regions. CONCLUSION: This study highlights the growing threat of feline sporotrichosis in Espírito Santo, Brazil, particularly in densely populated urban areas. This underscores the urgent need for comprehensive public health strategies that address urbanisation, human-animal interactions and managing stray cat populations. Effective control measures and enhanced surveillance are crucial to mitigate the spread of this zoonotic disease. Importantly, this study provides valuable insights into the epidemiology of sporotrichosis in Brazil and offers a framework for other regions identified as emerging hotspots that face similar challenges.