Veterinaria México OA

An overview of techniques for measuring methane emissions in cattle in tropical grazing systems

Thu, 14 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from ruminant grazing systems originates mostly from rumen fermentation processes particularly as methane. Measuring methane emissions from ruminants is essential for achieving accurate GHG inventories and developing effective strategies to mitigate GHG emissions in the context of climate change mitigation and sustainable livestock development. This Letter to the Editor aims to provide and discuss specific details about the SF6 (sulfur hexafluoride) technique which is a methodology used for assessing methane emissions from ruminants, as well as an alternative technology, namely, the Greenfeed or respiration chambers. The SF6 technique is widely used in research settings to quantify methane emissions from ruminant livestock, including cattle, sheep, and goats. Whereas the Greenfeed consists of a feeding station equipped with sensors that continuously monitor gases emitted by ruminants during feeding. Regarding respiration chambers, they function by enclosing the animals in a controlled environment where the air inflow and outflow are measured. Overall, under the Mexican grazing systems in the tropics, SF6, Greenfeed, and respiration chambers provide highly accurate data and are approaches that are required in the context of precision livestock farming.

Comparison of non-linear mixed effect models of the growth curve of commercial turkeys

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 00:00:00 -0600

The description of the growth curve in domestic animals is of importance in management and economic decision-making. The aim here was to determine the best non-linear mixed model to adjust the growth curve in commercial turkeys. The data come from an intensive turkey farm under a subhumid tropical climate. The live weight records of 266 female and 275 male turkeys, weighed weekly, from birth to 23 weeks, were used. The models of Gompertz, y_t = A × exp(-b × exp(-k × t)), and von Bertalanffy, y_t = A × (1-b × exp(-k × t))³ were used to estimate parameters and predict the growth curve; where: y_t = live weight at the t-th week of age; A = the expected mature weight; b = the integration constant; k = the maturation rate. Six non-linear models using the Gompertz, and von Bertalanffy functions: one with only fixed effects, four mixed models considering the fixed, 1 to 3 random effects, and a last model including the random effect of turkey were used. The analyses were performed using the NLMIXED procedure of SAS, and the selection of the best-fit model was chosen based on the Akaike (AIC) and Bayesian (BIC) information criteria. AIC and BIC values improved with the inclusion of 1 to 3 random effects, in both models for females and males. Based on AIC and BIC criteria, the best mixed NLM was the model that included random effects for A, b, and k. However, the predicted weight values of the mixed models were similar.

Outbreak of Aeromonas hydrophila bacterial dermatosepticemia in wild leopard frogs (Rana pipiens complex) in Mexico

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 00:00:00 -0600

This report presents a case of dermatosepticemia in ten wild leopard frogs (Rana pipiens complex) captured in Mexico, where the presence of Aeromonas hydrophila was confirmed. This polyphasic study included macroscopic, microbiological, histological, and molecular analyses. Externally, the specimens exhibited erythema, hemorrhage, and erosions on various body parts. Internal observations revealed hemorrhaging of the oral cavity and stomach, as well as sero-sanguineous ascites. Parasites were also identified, including Ochoterenella sp. in the mesentery, Glypthelmins sp. in the liver, Clinostomum sp. in the thigh muscles, and Opalina sp. and Glypthelmins sp. in the intestine. Histopathological analyses showed skin hemorrhaging, erosion and ulceration, myositis, coagulative myonecrosis with the presence of bacteria, and damage to internal organs with an abundant presence of bacteria. Aeromonas hydrophila was isolated in pure culture from the skin, muscle, mouth, heart, liver, and kidney of all ten frogs. The Mexican isolate (cos-ciesa 01) had high biochemical-enzymatic similarity to the strain A. hydrophila subsp. hydrophila CECT 4330. Additionally, the Mexican strain's 1 414 bp nucleotide sequence of 16S ribosomal RNA gene (GenBank Accession MN795652) showed high identity with A. hydrophila strain ATCC 7966. Ranavirus was not recovered in the cell cultures and PCR did not detect its DNA from paraffin-embedded tissues. These results suggest A. hydrophila as the causative agent of the dermatosepticemia disease outbreak.

Pathological, epidemiological features, and statistical study of histopathological changes in chicken transmissible viral proventriculitis

Djamel Eddine Merad, Mourad Zeghdoudi, Seloua Madi, Riad Bouzid, Leila Aoun — Tue, 03 Dec 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Transmissible viral proventriculitis (TVP) is a chicken disease whose etiology is not fully understood. This study aims to describe histopathological, macroscopic, and epidemiological data associated with possible new etiological agents. The samples comprised 62 broiler farms, 4 laying hen flocks, and 3 broiler breeders. The disease was identified by proventriculus thickening, confirmed through histopathological examination as the most reliable diagnostic method for TVP. Prevalence, clinical signs, gross lesions, epidemiological features, and statistical analysis were calculated. Microscopic findings confirmed the disease, which was classified into three distinct statuses: TVP characterized by the presence of both lymphocytic infiltration and necrosis; lymphocytic proventriculitis (LP) identified by lymphocytic infiltration alone, without the presence of necrosis (WP) denoting cases devoid of both lymphocytic infiltration and necrosis in the proventriculus. These statuses occurred at 23.6 %, 52.8 %, and 23.6 % rates, respectively. The disease prevalence was 20.9 % in flocks aged 15 to 40 days, with a mortality rate from 0.1 % to 0.5 % upon discovery. TVP and LP are marked by intense lymphocytic proliferation and necrosis, hinting at the involvement of infectious agents. Conversely, the absence of these characteristics in WP points to non-infectious etiologies for proventriculitis. The distinct proventricular wall hypertrophy observed in TVP and LP, as opposed to WP, reinforces the interpretation that, only for the conditions of this study, infectious agents amplify existing conditions rather than serve as primary catalysts for the disease.

Seroepidemiology and risk factors associated with Leptospira and Chlamydia abortus in goat herds in Guanajuato, Mexico

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 00:00:00 -0600

A cross-sectional epidemiological study was conducted from March 2022 to April 2023 to determine seropositivity for chlamydiosis and leptospirosis, as well as to identify risk factors associated with their transmission in goat herds in the municipality of Juventino Rosas, Guanajuato. A total of 741 samples were collected from 32 herds. For serological diagnosis, the microscopic agglutination test was employed for Leptospira, and an indirect ELISA was used for Chlamydia abortus. Logistic regression analysis was applied to identify risk factors. The study found that 14.1 % and 52.5 % of samples were seropositive for chlamydiosis and leptospirosis, respectively. The primary serovar detected for leptospirosis was the national strain H-89 (Hardjo) at 40.8 %. A significant causal association for leptospirosis was observed (P < 0.0211) in herds with a history of abortions (OR = 8.88), in goats older than 6 years (OR = 6.91), with the loaning of bucks (OR = 5.6), in the buying and selling of animals (OR = 3.54), in herds with more than 60 animals (OR = 3.44), in the presence of rodents (OR = 2.86), and with humidity (OR = 1.79). For chlamydiosis, a significant causal association (P < 0.0456) was observed when pregnant females were not separated (OR = 4.28), when grazing areas were shared (OR = 3.4), and in herds with more than 60 animals (OR = 2.1). Given these findings, it is essential to enhance technical assistance to implement biosafety measures aimed at reducing the occurrence of these diseases.

Growth retardation and immunosuppression in SPF chickens infected by fowl adenovirus serotype-8b isolated in China

Wed, 27 Mar 2024 00:00:00 -0600

One hundred forty 10-day-old SPF chickens were assigned to 4 groups. Fifty birds in group 1 and 20 birds in group 3 were inoculated with 600 µL (10⁵TCID₅₀) of strain WF2014, 50 birds in group 2 and 20 birds in group 4 were inoculated with 600 µL DMEM/F-12 medium by intramuscular injection into the leg muscles. Birds in groups 3 and 4 were immunized at 17 days old with the Newcastle diseases (NDV) vaccine. At 3, 7, 11, 15 and 19 days dpi, seven birds from each groups 1 and 2 were randomly weighed and necropsied. Organs or tissues with macroscopic pathological changes, small intestines, and immune organs were collected for histopathological observation, measurement of the ratio of the length of the villus to the depth of the crypt (V/C), apoptosis, and determination of viral load. Chicken sera from groups 3 and 4 were collected at 7, 14, and 21 days after immunization, and antibodies against NDV were evaluated. The results showed that hepatitis, pancreatitis, proventriculitis, a decrease in the V/C ratio in the duodenum, and body weight were observed in WF2014 infected chickens. Apoptosis, severe lesions, and high viral load were found in the bursa of Fabricius, spleen and thymus, and the humoral immune response was suppressed in infected chickens. These suggested that FAdV-8b infection implicated growth retardation and immunosuppression in chickens, and this will lay the foundation for a further study of the mechanism of FAdV-8b infection in chickens.

Efficacy of a pharmaceutically alginate-coated phytoremedy (black garlic and turmeric) for the control of natural coccidia infestation in turkeys

Yazmín Alcalá-Canto, Hector Sumano, Lilia Gutiérrez — Wed, 02 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0500

In searching for herbal alternatives for treating coccidiosis in turkeys, this trial aimed to evaluate whether minced black garlic (Allium sativa) or turmeric powder (Curcuma longa) or their combination, included in dried alginate beads, controlling clinical coccidiosis in turkey male poults. A total of 150 twelve-day-old male turkeys were randomly distributed into 15 pens of 10 turkeys per pen. Groups were: CTR = control untreated turkeys; GAR = turkeys fed 4 % of their diet with minced garlic included in dried alginate beads; CUR = treated fed 4 % powder curcuma, also prepared as dried alginate beads; GA = containing only alginate), and GC= turkeys fed 8 % of their diet with the mixture of minced black garlic plus powder curcuma (4 %), entrapped in dried alginate beads. Treatments were incorporated as feed-dressing, considering their mean feed intake. Results reveal that turkeys in group GC showed a significant decrease in oocysts per gram of feces during the first six weeks of age compared to values found in the CTR group and the other treatments. These results identify that in turkey poults, there is a statistically significant anticoccidial activity of the combination of minced garlic plus powder curcuma, included in alginate beads and administered as 4 % of their feed intake. Additionally, better productive variables were recorded for this combination compared to the other three groups (P < 0.05). The use of vehicles for the digestive tract of turkeys may improve the effectiveness of plant extracts for the control of coccidiosis.

Toxoplasmosis in cats from a dairy-producing region in Hidalgo, Mexico

Wed, 08 May 2024 00:00:00 -0500

Considering that the ingestion of cat feces containing Toxoplasma gondii oocysts is a major transmission route for toxoplasmosis, this work is aimed to assess the presence of T. gondii in cats dwelling in dairy production facilities at the Tizayuca Agro-Industrial Complex (CAIT, by its acronym in Spanish) in Hidalgo, Mexico. Blood samples from stray and owned cats were assayed by indirect ELISA, and samples from various tissues were collected at post-mortem examination of positive cats for DNA extraction, PCR, histopathologic studies, and immunohistochemistry. A questionnaire was applied in each dairy production unit to estimate cat ownership. From 70 animals studied (22 stray and 48 owned), 12 (17.1 %) were seropositive (7 stray and 5 owned). No differences were found for age or sex according to the questionnaires, but ingesting raw food was a risk factor (P < 0.01). Of the 12 positive cats, 5 were euthanized; of these, five tissue samples from 4 cats were positive for the B1 and 529 bp repetitive sequences by qPCR and conventional PCR. No macro- or microscopic lesions suggestive of T. gondii infection were found in cats.

Calcium-carbonate and phytoelements to improve egg production in backyard laying hens under heat stress

Fri, 03 May 2024 00:00:00 -0500

The bioavailability (F) of calcium and other nutrients from the gastrointestinal tract in the second and third laying cycle hens and in hens under heat-stress is insufficient to sustain the necessary egg production. The administration of additional amounts of any source of calcium has been shown to be insufficient to meet the demand for calcium. However, improved calcium F has already been achieved in these hens if calcium carbonate is pharmaceutically prepared as patented pellets (FOLAs). Hence, clinical challenges were set to test the FOLA pellets as a form to sustain egg production and eggshell thickness in 180-second and 180-third cycle Bovans-White laying hens, randomly divided into six groups, as follows: cycle-2 control group (GCC2); FOLA-group-capsaicin (GFcC2); FOLA-group-capsaicin-turmeric powder-cinnamon powder (GfexC2); control-group for third cycle hens (GCC3); FOLA-group-capsaicin (GFcC3); FOLA-group-capsaicin-turmeric powder-cinnamon powder (GFexC3). This trial was carried out under moderate heat-stress conditions, and a follow-up was carried out utilizing eye thermographic measurements. The results show that all FOLA-fed hens of the second or third laying cycle presented better laying average and eggshell thickness than the untreated control groups, i.e., GFcC2 128 % higher than GCC2; GfexC2 135 % higher than GCC2; GFcC3 168 % higher than GCC3; and GFexC3 was 173 % higher than GCC3 (P < 0.01 in all comparisons). FOLA pellet formulation, similar to GfexC2, is postulated as a viable natural solution to counter the decreased egg-laying and shell thickness in second and third-cycle hens under moderate heat stress.

Reproductive and productive performance of hair sheep in a semi-intensive system in southeastern Mexico

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Productivity measured as kilograms of lamb weaned per ewe is a composite trait of economic importance and can be used as selection criterion of maternal breeds. The objective of this study was to estimate the reproductive, preweaning growth and productivity performance of hair breed ewes, and the effect some nongenetic factors influencing them under semi-intensive conditions in southeastern, Mexico. Information of purebreds and crossbred ewes and their lambs was used to develop a composite productivity index. The final mixed model used (except for age at first lambing, AFL), included the fixed effect of breed group, year (Y, 2016-2019) and season of lambing (dry, rainy and wind and rainy), lambing number (1, 2, … ≥ 5), litter size (LS, single and double for weaning traits), and the random effects of ewe within breed group and residual error. Except for the AFL, the effect of the breed group and all other non-genetic factors were significant (P < 0.0100). No breed or crossbred was superior for all traits studied, yet Katahdin breed (K) excelled the most, despite of its reproductive performance. Traits in the productivity index (litter size at lambing, adjusted litter weaning weight and lambing interval) could not be used as an optimal indicator for the identification of the best breed for crossbreeding. The K showed the best maternal ability, except for lambing interval and AFL, influenced by all non-genetic factors which could be improved by sound flock management.

Effect of supplementing zilpaterol hydrochloride during different periods on energetics, growth performance, carcass traits and fatty acid profile in meat of finishing lambs

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 00:00:00 -0600

To determine the effect of adding β2 agonist zilpaterol hydrochloride during different periods on growth performance, dietary energetic, carcass traits and fatty acid profile, forty male lambs Pelibuey × Katahdin (37.70 ± 0.83 kg) were blocked by body weight and randomly assigned to pens. Treatments consisted in: 1) control, no zilpaterol supplementation, 2) zilpaterol supplementation for 20 d (ZIL20), 3) zilpaterol supplementation for 30 d (ZIL30), and 4) zilpaterol supplementation for 40 d (ZIL40). Compared with control treatment, zilpaterol supplementation increased final live weight (FLW) (3.5 %; P = 0.0563), average daily gain (ADG, 14.8 %; P = 0.0598) and gain:feed ratio (10.3 %; P = 0.0324). As well as hot carcass weight (6.1 %; P = 0.0064), dress out percentage (2.6 %; P = 0.0139) and Longissimus dorsi muscle area (13.7 %; P = 0.0015). Compared to control group, zilpaterol increased (P = 0.0413) observed vs. expected dietary of NEm (net energy requirements for maintenance) and NEg (net energy requirements for growth) (5.7 and 8.1 %, respectively). Twenty days of zilpaterol treatment improved FLW (4.4 %, P = 0.0566) and tended to improve ADG (17.4 %, P = 0.0718) when compared to control group. Only intramuscular fat showed a positive linear effect (P = 0.0006) in stearic fatty acids proportion and negative linear effect (P = 0.0585) in araquidonic fatty acid proportion. We conclude that zilpaterol hydrochloride improved variables of growth performance, energy retention and carcass traits with noticeable effects from 20 d of zilpaterol supplementation.

Determination of knowledge levels and attitudes of clinician veterinarians working in Thrace region towards antibiotic use

Sezai Arslan, Mehmet Nihat Ural, Nurullah Özdemir — Mon, 30 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0500

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has become a global problem due to widespread antimicrobial use in human and veterinary medicine. AMR affects health systems by leading to prolonged and severe illnesses, high mortality rates, and treatment failures caused by resistant microorganisms. As antibiotics are the most widely used drugs in veterinary medicine, veterinarians' knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding antibiotic use are crucial in combating AMR. In this cross-sectional study, an online questionnaire of 20 questions was administered to clinician veterinarians and members of the Trakya Chamber of Veterinarians and 60 participants answered the questionnaire. In the current survey, 98 % of veterinarians agree that AMR is an important public health problem and emphasize that focusing on rational antibiotic use in veterinary medicine is a critical area to slow the development of AMR. Only 10 % of the respondents stated that they take into account antibiotic requests from patient owners, 68.3 % stated that they rarely use off-label drugs and 16.7 % stated that they often use them. Of those respondents, 16.7 % stated that they routinely perform antibiograms. Regarding education, 41.7 % of veterinarians had received training on rational antibiotic use. When asked about their preferred type of training, 56.7 % favored online training, while 35 % preferred face-to-face sessions. The results indicate that veterinarians play a significant role in combating AMR and that more awareness and education are needed in this field.

Differences in small-breed dogs' body language and vocalizations in a negative context

Tue, 21 May 2024 00:00:00 -0500

A dog's emotional state is communicated primarily through body language, readily observable by humans and other animals. Additionally, dogs express visual and auditory signals differently according to the situation they are experiencing. However, there is a need for more research on smaller breeds since they tend to display more behavioral issues than larger breeds. The objective of the present study was to identify the behavioral characteristics of 25 dogs of three different small breeds (Chihuahua, Toy Poodle, and Miniature Schnauzer) in a negative context. We used a web-based tool called the Dog Actions Video Annotation Interface (DAVAI) to evaluate the movements of the tail, legs, snout, and vocalizations when the dogs were exposed to unfamiliar people. Our results showed no significant differences in dog behavior associated with breed. However, we identified variations in dog vocalizations explained by the sex, with male dogs whining more frequently than females. We highlight the importance of understanding dog body language and vocalizations, regardless of their breed. Our study is particularly relevant in negative contexts, where dogs may exhibit distress signals that require prompt intervention to alleviate their suffering.

Immunochemical response and gene expression in juvenile shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) exposed to microorganisms isolated from marine sediment

Thu, 21 Mar 2024 00:00:00 -0600

The use of microorganisms isolated from the natural environment can improve the culture conditions in aquaculture systems and the immune and antioxidant response capacity of cultured organisms. In this study, the immunochemical response and gene expression of Litopenaeus vannamei juveniles were analyzed following exposure to microorganisms isolated from marine sediments after in vitro characterization of their probiotic properties. Two yeasts and one bacterium strain were used by immersion method (48 to 216 h) at a concentration of 1 × 106 CFU(mL)^-1 with the following treatments: (1) Control, without probiotics; (2) Positive Control, commercial immunostimulant (Laminarin; β-1,3, glucan); (3) Candida maris, strain A1; (4) Geotrichum candidum, strain A3; and (5) Curtobacterium sp., strain S13. Shrimp treated with microorganisms and commercial immunostimulants showed a significant increase (P < 0.0500) in the soluble protein content in hemocytes compared with the control group. At 72 h post-exposures, G. candidum, Curtobacterium sp., and laminarin treatments showed a significant increase (P < 0.0500) in superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity compared with the control group. Superoxide dismutase enzyme gene expression showed a significant increase (P < 0.0500) in all shrimp treated with microorganisms from 48 post-exposures. The results obtained showed that the use of three microorganisms isolated from a marine environment can stimulate the protein content in circulating hemocytes, antioxidant activity, and gene expression in juvenile L. vannamei.

Efficiency of ozone (O3) therapy on experimental acidic skin burns in rats

Aslan Nevzat Emre, Hanifi Erol, Esra Balcıoğlu, Yalçin Betül — Wed, 14 Feb 2024 00:00:00 -0600

In this study, it was aimed to investigate the efficacy of O₃ therapy in experimentally induced HF skin burns in rats. A total of 20 healthy male Wistar Albino rats (weighing 250-300 g, aged 16 weeks) were used as the material of the study. They were divided into two groups (as experimental and control groups) of 10 rats which were housed individually and fed ad libitum. Hydrofluoric acid (HF) skin burns were induced in all animals. The ozonized (20 µg O₃/mL) liquid vaseline was applied topically for seven days to the experiment group as well as parallelly, a saline solution was applied to the control group. In the histopathologic evaluation, inflammation, vascularization, epithelial regeneration and fibrosis were evaluated. The epithelial proliferation and collagenization were higher and statistically significant in the experimental group, while the infiltration was higher and statistically significant in the control group. As a result of this study, it was observed that ozone plays an important role in the tissue repair process in chemical burns. The increase of fibroblast activation and re-epithelization in the experimental group demonstrated that ozone therapy could be suggested as first aid in HF skin burns. It was concluded that more studies on ozone are needed to shed light on the subject.

Effects of three anesthesia and two tranquilizers’ protocols on stress response during handling in tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 00:00:00 -0600

To determine the effect of anesthesia and tranquilization on the stress response of tilapia (Oreochromis nilotica) during a handling procedure. We assess three anesthetics: ketamine, MS222, and clove oil; and two tranquilizers: xylazine, and medetomidine, which were administrated by submersion in adult tilapia. Our results showed a significant difference in cortisol levels between treatments after handling procedure (P = 0.0002), where xylazine had the highest cortisol levels compared to the other treatments. We also found differences between induction and recovery times in the different treatments. Then, animals exposed to xylazine took longer to present induction effects, than the other treatments (P < 0.0001). For recovery times, ketamine presents the longest recovery times, than clove oil and MS222, but not when compared to animals exposed to medetomidine and xylazine (P = 0.0019). We observed paleness in animals exposed to medetomidine.

Histophilosis in cattle: microbiology, epidemiology and pathology

Francisco Aguilar Romero, Francisco Suarez Guemes, Francisco José Trigo Tavera — Fri, 26 Apr 2024 00:00:00 -0500

Histophilosis is a group of diseases suffered by domestic and wild ruminants, produced by Histophilus somni (formerly Haemophilus somnus), a gram-negative bacterium considered an opportunistic pathogenic microorganism that lives in the mucous membranes of ruminants. It mainly affects the respiratory and reproductive tract, as well as the central nervous system; it is also associated with various generalized disorders such as myocarditis, polyarthritis, conjunctivitis, choroiditis, mastitis, epididymitis, otitis, and septicemia. The aim of this review is to provide updated information on this group of diseases affecting cattle, covering the characteristics of the etiological agent, its main virulence factors, epidemiological aspects, and the pathogenesis of the infection. Additionally, the distribution of the disease worldwide, its diagnosis, prevention, and control are included.

Scoping review of primary studies evaluating Bovine in vitro oocyte maturation and embryo development

Thu, 13 Jun 2024 00:00:00 -0500

We conducted a scoping review to 1) map and categorize published studies reporting interventions during the in vitro production of Bovine embryos and 2) qualitatively summarize the effects of treatments based on hormones, growth factors, sera, and reproductive fluids during oocyte maturation and embryo development. We searched electronic databases using keywords ('Bovine', 'embryo', 'blastocyst', 'oocyte', 'in vitro', 'quality') derived from the PIOS approach of the PRISMA statement. We identified 231 studies published during 2000−2021, with 133 being published between 2012 and 2021. The 231 studies were classified into four treatment categories: culture conditions (28), medium composition (45), bioactive supplements (79), and other additives (79), with 19 subcategories within these categories. A total of 77 studies included hormones, growth factors, sera, and reproductive fluids, among which 53 studies reported a positive effect on embryo production. Hormone-based treatments using melatonin, gonadotropins, and steroids were the most effective, followed by interventions assessing growth factors such as EGF, FGF, IGF-1, and BMP. These treatments improved oocyte competence, cytoplasmic/nuclear maturation, oocyte quality, and blastocyst development. Although free-serum media and synthetic/alternative products can partially or totally replace serum, it is sometimes necessary even at low concentrations. At high concentrations, hormones or growth factors may have detrimental effects on oocyte nuclear maturation, impair embryo development, and decrease embryo survival. Further meta-analyses are needed to estimate the intervention-specific effects. Future research should focus on interventions that have a positive effect and can be used extensively for Bovine production.

Capture myopathy in wild birds: clinical information, a systematic review

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 00:00:00 -0500

Capture myopathy is a complication of handling in many species of mammals and wild birds. This pathology is described as a state of muscle tissue degradation that can render a bird unable to stand, walk or fly. This study is a systematic review of the literature on capture myopathy in wild birds with information searched between years 1980 to 2022. Taxonomic information, clinical signs, diagnostic methods, and treatments used in this pathology were compiled, summarized, and classified. A modified evaluation method was used for the methodological analysis of each of the articles, meeting inclusion and exclusion criteria, to have a desirable methodological quality, resulting in a total of 12 included studies. A higher prevalence of Capture myopathy was described in the families Scolopacidae, Gruidae and Anatidae. Frequent clinical signs associated with myopathy, were the inability to incorporate, ataxia, paresis, and paralysis. The diagnostic methods are based on clinical pathology, evaluating the enzymes creatine kinase and aspartate aminotransferase with their respective levels. Common macroscopic alterations were changes in the coloration of the muscle tissue and hemorrhagic areas due to rupture of myofibril and a frequent microscopic lesion was damage to muscle myofibers. The literature describes supportive treatments such as the early use of fluid therapy, analgesics, tranquilizers, vitamins, sodium bicarbonate, while physical therapy is beneficial to protect from injury and incorporate the bird to the environment as soon as possible, however, prevention is the most effective way to avoid the onset of this disease.

Identification of ABC genes in monogeneans of the Ancyrocephalidae family: an in silico and DNA microarray approach

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0600

The combination of molecular methods is increasingly efficient for identifying genes in non-model species such as monogeneans. These organisms are parasites that can cause health problems in fish kept in captivity or under farming conditions, making it important to design effective treatments that di[1]rectly target the parasites’ defense systems. ABC (ATP-binding cassette) trans[1]porters are proteins involved in the detoxification of xenobiotics and in drug resistance mechanisms. In monogeneans, knowledge related to ABC trans[1]porters is limited. In the present study, putative genes encoding ABC proteins were identified in two species of monogeneans, Scutogyrus longicornis and Cichlidogyrus spp. belonging to the Ancyrocephalidae family. For this pur[1]pose, transcriptomic data and previously published DNA microarrays were used. These species of monogeneans are commonly found in tilapia farm[1]ings. A total of 30 and 59 ABC transporters were predicted in S. longicornis and Cichlidogyrus spp., respectively. The ABCB and ABCC subfamilies were the most represented. Both species share 19 ABC genes, among which pgp-1, pgp-2, pgp-3, pgp-9, mrp-1, mrp-4, abce-1, abcf-2, wht-2, and wht-8, given their relatively higher expression levels, are likely the most important in de[1]toxification processes in Ancyrocephalidae. These results could be useful for guiding future experimental work aimed at improving control strategies for monogeneans in fish.

Morphometric alterations in juvenile female black iguana (Ctenosaura pectinata) due to protein and energy intake variation

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 00:00:00 -0500

As an ectothermic animal, black iguana (Ctenosaura pectinata) eats diverse foods and its growth is not constant; therefore, its weight gain and longitudinal growth are low. In this research, the morphometric changes of the black iguana ambient temperature were studied. Different servings of crude protein and metabolizable energy were tested. A total of 30 juvenile females with an average weight of 124.4 ± 61.1 g were used. Each female was kept in an individual cage with a semi-automatic feeder and waterer. Diet consisted of a combination of crude protein (29.4 and 33.4 %) and three variants of metabolizable energy: 2.49, 2.55 and 2.7 Mcal/kg. The variables evaluated were live weight (mg), perimeter, diameter and body length (mm). The variables associated with feed consumption were: dry matter (mg), crude protein (CP) and metabolizable energy (ME). A randomized complete block design with a 2×3 factorial arrangement was used, where the blocking criterion was the weight of the iguanas. To observe the differences between treatments, the Tukey test was applied. There were differences (P < 0.0500) in the width of the head and the base diameter of the tail due to the effect of the energy factor. The treatments of 29.4 CP and 2.55 ME, and 33.4 CP and 2.55 ME led to greater (P < 0.0500) consumption of dry matter, protein and energy. Due to the type of feeding, an increase in some morphometric variables was also recorded. Juvenile females grew more with the nutritional combination of: 33.4 and 2.55 (CP-ME).

Use of antibiotics among small-scale cattle farmers in rural areas in Queretaro, Mexico

Thu, 29 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0500

The inappropriate use of antibiotics in the livestock sector has been described as one of the causes of the emergence of antimicrobial resistance. Information on antibiotic use in small-scale farms is limited. Our objective was to identify patterns of antibiotic use in small-scale cattle farms in Queretaro, Mexico. Cross-sectional study with 50 small-scale cattle farmers from rural areas surveyed in the municipality of Tequisquiapan, Queretaro between May–October 2022. Convenience sampling, non-probabilistic, small-scale cattle farms were selected using respondent-driven sampling methodology. A face-to-face survey was applied, structured in five sections: i) small-scale cattle farmers´ profile, ii) characteristics of small-scale cattle farms, iii) antibiotic use, iv) antibiotic prescription, and v) inventory of stored antibiotics vials. The data collected were processed and analyzed. Ninety-two percent of the small-scale cattle farmers were male, with an age range of 23 to 88 years (median 58.5, IQR 49–64.5). Seventy-four percent of the small-scale cattle farmers had a basic level of schooling. The animal census consisted of 968 animals. A total of 142 stored antibacterial products from nine antibiotic classes were recorded: 34.5 % were penicillin, 19 % oxytetracycline, 13.4 % gentamicin, 9.8 % florfenicol, and 8.4 %enrofloxacin. About 50 % of the stored antibiotics have a "watch" classification in the WHO AWaRe tool. Seventy-eight percent of small-scale cattle farmers throw empty antibiotic vials in the trash. Our study showed that small-scale cattle farmers had an important use of third generation cephalosporins, tetracyclines, and fluoroquinolones; antibiotics considered “watch” by the WHO.

Interspecies pregnancy between Ovis canadensis mexicana and Ovis aries with reduced placental P450scc expression and intrauterine growth restriction

Thu, 23 May 2024 00:00:00 -0500

The present study aimed to assess the steroidogenic process in the placenta of hybrids Ovis canadensis mexicana × Ovis aries, particularly, to determine the plasma lipid profile and the relative abundance of proteins related to the steroidogenesis, to elucidate in part the mechanism of progesterone deficiency in hybrids. Plasma lipoproteins and placental cholesterol were determined by dry chemical colorimetric assays. Steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (STARD1), StAR-related lipid transfer domain protein 3 (STARD3), cholesterol side-chain cleavage enzyme (P450ssc), and 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD) were evaluated by Western blot. In addition, STARD3 was also investigated by immunohistochemical experiments in sheep placenta. Results indicated that cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) plasma levels were similar between hybrid and control pregnancy groups. Conversely, intracellular cholesterol was increased (P ˂ 0.05) in the placenta tissue of hybrids. No significant differences in the relative abundance of both STARD3, STARD1, and 3β-HSD enzyme were observed in the placenta of hybrids compared to control animals, while the relative abundance of cytochrome P450scc was lower in hybrids than in control animals (P = 0.0279). The presence of STARD3 was observed in the cytoplasmic and perinuclear regions of mononucleate and binucleate cells of the trophoblast in the sheep placenta. The significant decrease in the abundance of P450scc in hybrids’ placenta may explain the decrease in progesterone biosynthesis, which has been related to intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) in these animals previously.

Effectiveness of distance teaching for basic principles of veterinary surgery

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 00:00:00 -0500

During the confinement due to the SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) pandemic, the effectiveness of distance teaching of the basic principles of surgery was evaluated using the Virtual Learning Environment (ENVIA in Spanish) platform. A total of 209 fourth-year Veterinary Medicine students participated, and instruction was carried out asynchronously through forums, readings, and podcasts. Synchronous sessions were also held via video conferencing. To evaluate knowledge acquisition, a questionnaire was applied at the beginning of the course (week 1) and at the end (week 10) using the Google™ Forms platform. Students participated voluntarily and only their institutional email address was collected to link the initial and final questionnaires. The questionnaire questions covered different areas of knowledge: anesthesia (10 %), asepsis (20 %), hemostasis (10 %), delicate tissue handling (20 %), and suturing (40 %). In the initial questionnaire, the average score was 5 out of 10, while in the final, 8 out of 10. Using the Wilcoxon signed rank test, a significant difference (P < 0.0001) was found between the initial and final scores. The need to reinforce knowledge in the delicate handling of tissues and sutures was identified. These results indicate that this distance teaching model has the potential to improve the effectiveness of students' self-learning in the basic principles of surgery.

Retrospective analysis of fractures in crab-eating foxes (Cerdocyon thous)

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0500

This study assessed axial and appendicular fractures in crab-eating foxes (Cerdocyon thous; Linnaeus, 1766) admitted to the Reference Center for Wildlife. Medical records and plain radiographs of C. thous were retrospectively evaluated. Seventy-four free-ranging C. thous were admitted over 10 years, of which 21 had fractures in the appendicular and/or axial skeleton. Appendicular skeleton fracture was verified in 42.86 % of the animals, five of whom had long bone involvement and four the hip bones. More than one fracture in the appendicular skeleton occurred in 14.28 % of the animals, with the most common being a long bone fracture with a hip fracture. Axial skeleton fractures were observed in 9.52 % of the cases, with one fracture located in the vertebral column and the other in the head. Five animals died and nine were euthanized due to injury severity, prognosis and/or poor outcome after treatment. Seven animals showed good evolution after treatment, and four animals were released. In conclusion, hip bone fractures, isolated or combined with injuries to other bones of the axial and/or appendicular skeleton, were the most common injuries in C. thous. The characteristics of multiple trauma were associated with high mortality and complications.

Chlamydia abortus in brown pelicans (Pelecanus occidentalis) from the gulf of California, Mexico

Thu, 16 May 2024 00:00:00 -0500

The brown pelican (Pelecanus occidentalis californicus) is a migratory subspecies that nests on the islands of the gulf of California, in the Pacific Northwest. The objective of this study was to identify Chlamydia species in brown pelican samples obtained in 2016, 2017, and 2021. Samples were taken from the cloacae and choanae of 86 brown pelicans in specimens ranging from three to seven weeks of age. The samples were obtained with sterile swabs and transferred to an SPG growth medium. The DNA was extracted to carry out a real-time PCR that detects the gene of the 235 rRNA subunit of the Chlamydiaceae family. In addition, real-time PCR directed to the ompA gene was performed to determine the Chlamydia species. Of the 86 sampled pelicans, four were positive for the family Chlamydiaceae and Chlamydia abortus. This is the first report of C. abortus in brown pelicans from the gulf of California, Mexico.