Short Communication: Rotavirus Group A Occurrence in Rural Water Source Samples in a Midwest Region State of Brazil, Comparing Wet and Dry Seasons.

Identified as a potential reference pathogen by the WHO Guidelines for Drinking-Water Quality, Rotavirus (RV) is among the main enteric viruses that cause waterborne diseases. The aim of this study was to identify and correlate the presence of RV in collective and individual water sources of rural communities in the state of Goiás, within the seasons in which the collections were made (rainy and dry seasons). For this, 86 water samples in the dry period and 160 samples in the rainy period were collected. Concentration of water samples, extraction of viral genetic material and molecular tests were performed. When analyzing the presence of RV in the samples, taking into consideration the period studied, RV was found to be more prevalent in the dry season (54.7%) than in the rainy season (20%), showing a strong statistical association with the dry season (p-value < 0.001). The presence of pathogenic microorganisms in water is a public risk issue, enabling the emergence of outbreaks, endemics and epidemics. In the present research, there was an association between the presence of Rotavirus and the dry period of the year when compared to the rainy period.

Breed and heterosis effects on reproduction and production traits of Girolando cows

The objective of this study was to evaluate the breed and heterosis effects on reproductive traits, test-day milk yield, and 305-day milk yield in different lactations of crossbred Girolando cows. Data consisted of test-day milk yield records of first (118,831 records), second (63,227), and third lactation (44,512) and their relative productive (test-day milk yield, 305-day milk yield, and lactation length) and reproductive (age at first calving, calving interval, days open, and dry period) records of 35,582 Girolando cows from Brazil, collected from 1998 to 2014. The heterosis effect of the evaluated traits in Girolando cattle was estimated by MIXED procedure in SAS. Girolando cows showed a negative (favorable) and significant heterosis effect for reproductive traits. The dry periods between the first and second calving and between the second and third calving showed the greatest gains in heterosis (21.93 and 10.41%, respectively). All the evaluated productive traits showed a significant and similar heterosis effect between the three lactations. The use of crossbreeding strategies between the Holstein and Gyr breeds, instead of using the pure breed, is indeed a good alternative to increase the economic efficiency of the dairy activity in the different production systems in tropical environments.(AU)

Internal Teat Sealant Administered at Drying off Reduces Intramammary Infections during the Dry and Early Lactation Periods of Dairy Cows.

The effect of an internal teat sealant (ITS) on subsequent infection of the mammary gland was evaluated on the following mammary gland health indicators: (a) bacteriological cure of preexisting intramammary infections at drying off, (b) risk of postpartum new intramammary infections (NIMI), (c) cure and risk of new cases of subclinical mastitis (SCM), and (d) risk of postpartum clinical mastitis (CM). A total of 553 cows during late gestation were randomly assigned into two treatment protocols at drying off: (a) Dry cow therapy with 0.25 g of intramammary anhydrous cefalonium (ADCT; Cepravin®, MSD Animal Health); or (b) ADCT combined with ITS (SDCT; 4 g bismuth subnitrate; Masti-Seal®, MSD Animal Health, São Paulo, Brazil). Mammary quarter (MQ) milk samples were collected for microbiological culture and somatic cell count (SCC) at drying off and early lactation, and data from 1756 MQ were used in the multivariate logistic regression. There was no effect on the risk of bacteriological cure, SCM cure, and new cases of postpartum SCM. Still, SDCT reduced the risk of CM up to 60 days postpartum (DPP), overall NIMI risk, and the NIMI caused by major pathogens compared to ADCT. Thus, the DCT combined with ITS at drying off is effective for preventing NIMI during the dry period and CM up to 60 DPP.

Morphogenetic and structural characteristics of gamba grass subjected to nitrogen fertilization and different defoliation intensities / Características morfogênicas e estruturais do capim-andropógon submetido à adubações nitrogenadas e intensidades de desfolha

This study aimed to evaluate the morphogenetic, structural, and productive characteristics of Andropogon gayanus cv. 'Planaltina' subjected to different nitrogen fertilization levels and defoliation intensities. The experiment was done in a completely randomized design with a factorial arrangement of six nitrogen doses (0, 100, 200, 300, 400, and 500 kg N ha-1) and two defoliation intensities (15 and 30 cm). The production and structure data were grouped into rainy and dry periods, while morphogenesis data were compared only among different fertilization and defoliation intensities. The total dry forage biomass (TDFB), dry mass of leaves (DML), dry mass of stems (DMS), and dead forage dry mass (DFDM) were then determined. In addition to these variables, the morphogenetic characteristics of the plants and the numbers of tillers alive and dead were evaluated. There was no interaction (P>0.05) between the effects of nitrogen fertilization doses and the intensity of defoliation on TDFB, DML, DMS, and DFDM in both of the evaluated phases (rainy and dry). It was also observed that the rates of leaf elongation, leaf appearance, and leaf blade elongation increased with nitrogen fertilization. On the other hand, the culm elongation rate and phyllochron decreased as the dose applied increased. The defoliation intensity did not influence (P>0.05) the morphogenetic characteristics examined, nor did it affect the senescence rate of nitrogen in leaves and number of live leaves per tiller. The number of dead tillers increased linearly during the rainy period. Based on these results, to improve the efficiency of production of gamba grass it is recommended that it be managed with a defoliation intensity of 30 cm and nitrogen fertilization of 286.52 kg N ha-1 year-1.

Objetivou-se avaliar as características morfogênicas, produtivas e estruturais do Andropogon gayanus cv. Planaltina submetido a níveis de adubação nitrogenada e intensidades de desfolha. O delineamento experimental foi o inteiramente casualizado com arranjo fatorial 6x2, doses de nitrogênio (0, 100, 200, 300, 400 e 500 kg de nitrogênio ha-1) e intensidades de desfolhas (15 e 30 cm). Os dados de produção e estrutura foram agrupados em períodos chuvoso e seco e os de morfogênese analisados somente em função da adubação e intensidade de desfolha. Foi determinada a produção de biomassa de forragem seca total (BFST), massa seca de folhas (MSF), massa seca de colmos (MSC) e massa seca de forragem morta (MSFM). Além dessas variáveis foram avaliadas as características morfogênicas e de perfilhos vivos e mortos. Houve interação (P<0,05) entre as doses e intensidade de desfolhas para a MSFT, MSF, MSC e MSFM em ambas as fases de avaliação. Observou-se que as taxas de alongamento foliar, aparecimento foliar e comprimento da lâmina foliar aumentaram com a adubação nitrogenada. Por outro lado, a taxa de alongamento do colmo e Filocrono diminuíram com a aplicação das doses crescentes. As intensidades de desfolha não influenciaram (P>0,05) nas características morfogênicas, assim como a adubação na taxa de senescência foliar e número de folhas vivas por perfilho. O número de perfilhos mortos aumentou de forma linear durante o período chuvoso. Recomenda-se manejar o capim-andropógon com intensidade de desfolha de 30 cm e adubação nitrogenada de 286,52 kg de N ha-1 ano-1, visando a maior produção.

Associations between postpartum diseases and milk yield and changes in body condition between drying off and parturition of dairy cows in Argentina.

Aims: To assess the change in body condition score (BCS) during the early and late dry periods and its association with postpartum diseases and milk yield in grazing dairy cows from central Argentina. Methods: BCS assessments during the dry period, and cow health and milk production records up to 90 days in milk (DIM), were collated for cows from 28 farms at monthly visits between 2007 and 2008. Cows were categorised into four groups; those in Group 1 (n=7,067) maintained or gained BCS during the early and late dry periods; Group 2 (n=2,615) maintained or gained BCS during the early dry period and lost BCS during the late dry period; Group 3 (n=1,989) lost BCS during the early dry period and maintained or gained BCS during the late dry period; and Group 4 (n=5,144) lost BCS during the early and late dry periods. Results: Cows in Group 1 had reduced odds of having retained fetal membranes (RFM), metritis, and clinical mastitis up to 90 DIM than cows in Group 2 (p<0.001), but the odds of disease were similar to cows in Group 3. The odds of having RFM or clinical mastitis tended to be lower in cows in Group 1 than cows in Group 4 (p=0.08). The odds of cows being culled or dying during the first 90 DIM were lower for cows in Group 1 than for those in Groups 2, 3, and 4 (p≤0.05). Mean accumulated milk yield up to 90 DIM was higher in cows in Group 1 than Group 2 and Group 4 (p<0.001), but was similar to that of cows in Group 3 (p=0.28). Conclusions and clinical relevance: Cows that lost BCS during the late dry period had increased odds of being diagnosed with several postpartum diseases and had decreased milk yield compared to cows that maintained or gained BCS during the entire dry period. Loss of BCS during any stage of the dry period was also associated with increased incidence of culling or death during the first 90 DIM. These results should raise awareness among dairy cattle producers of the importance of properly managing cow body condition during the dry period, especially during the late dry period.

Association between gestation length and lactation performance, lactation curve, calf birth weight and dystocia in Holstein dairy cows in Iran.

In this study, 252,798 lactations on 108,077 cows in 433 herds were used to determine the association between gestation length (GL) and lactation performance, lactation curve, calf birth weight and dystocia in Holstein dairy cows in Iran. The GL averaged 278.1 ± 5.41 d, was categorized as short (SGL; at 1 SD below the population mean), average (AGL; the population mean ± 1 SD), or long (LGL; at least 1 SD above the population mean). Factors including parity, calf gender and calving season were associated with the GL. Primiparous cows with SGL had less lactation performance than those with longer GL; however, there was no difference between those with AGL and LGL. Multiparous cows with longer GL always had more partial and 305-d lactation performance. Primiparous cows with SGL produced less milk at the beginning of lactation and at the peak than those with AGL or LGL; inverse trends were found for lactation persistency, upward and downward slopes of the lactation curve. Within multiparous, a direct relationship was found between GL and the peak yield, where cows with longer GL always produced more milk at the peak. Multiparous cows with SGL produced less milk at the beginning of lactation, reached their peaks later, had higher lactation persistency and showed a lower upward slope of lactation curve than those with AGL or LGL. There was a direct relationship between GL and calf birth weight, where cows with longer GL had calves with more weight at the birth. Within primiparous, cows with SGL had the lowest and those with LGL had the highest rate of dystocia. However, multiparous cows with AGL had a lower rate of dystocia than those with SGL or LGL. Although there was a direct relationship between GL and lactation performance, intermediate GL seems optimal when considering dystocia.

Association between gestation length and lactation performance, lactation curve, calf birth weight and dystocia in Holstein dairy cows in Iran

In this study, 252,798 lactations on 108,077 cows in 433 herds were used to determine the association between gestation length (GL) and lactation performance, lactation curve, calf birth weight and dystocia in Holstein dairy cows in Iran. The GL averaged 278.1 ± 5.41 d, was categorized as short (SGL; at 1 SD below the population mean), average (AGL; the population mean ± 1 SD), or long (LGL; at least 1 SD above the population mean). Factors including parity, calf gender and calving season were associated with the GL. Primiparous cows with SGL had less lactation performance than those with longer GL; however, there was no difference between those with AGL and LGL. Multiparous cows with longer GL always had more partial and 305-d lactation performance. Primiparous cows with SGL produced less milk at the beginning of lactation and at the peak than those with AGL or LGL; inverse trends were found for lactation persistency, upward and downward slopes of the lactation curve. Within multiparous, a direct relationship was found between GL and the peak yield, where cows with longer GL always produced more milk at the peak. Multiparous cows with SGL produced less milk at the beginning of lactation, reached their peaks later, had higher lactation persistency and showed a lower upward slope of lactation curve than those with AGL or LGL. There was a direct relationship between GL and calf birth weight, where cows with longer GL had calves with more weight at the birth. Within primiparous, cows with SGL had the lowest and those with LGL had the highest rate of dystocia. However, multiparous cows with AGL had a lower rate of dystocia than those with SGL or LGL. Although there was a direct relationship between GL and lactation performance, intermediate GL seems optimal when considering dystocia.(AU)

Association between gestation length and lactation performance, lactation curve, calf birth weight and dystocia in Holstein dairy cows in Iran

In this study, 252,798 lactations on 108,077 cows in 433 herds were used to determine the association between gestation length (GL) and lactation performance, lactation curve, calf birth weight and dystocia in Holstein dairy cows in Iran. The GL averaged 278.1 ± 5.41 d, was categorized as short (SGL; at 1 SD below the population mean), average (AGL; the population mean ± 1 SD), or long (LGL; at least 1 SD above the population mean). Factors including parity, calf gender and calving season were associated with the GL. Primiparous cows with SGL had less lactation performance than those with longer GL; however, there was no difference between those with AGL and LGL. Multiparous cows with longer GL always had more partial and 305-d lactation performance. Primiparous cows with SGL produced less milk at the beginning of lactation and at the peak than those with AGL or LGL; inverse trends were found for lactation persistency, upward and downward slopes of the lactation curve. Within multiparous, a direct relationship was found between GL and the peak yield, where cows with longer GL always produced more milk at the peak. Multiparous cows with SGL produced less milk at the beginning of lactation, reached their peaks later, had higher lactation persistency and showed a lower upward slope of lactation curve than those with AGL or LGL. There was a direct relationship between GL and calf birth weight, where cows with longer GL had calves with more weight at the birth. Within primiparous, cows with SGL had the lowest and those with LGL had the highest rate of dystocia. However, multiparous cows with AGL had a lower rate of dystocia than those with SGL or LGL. Although there was a direct relationship between GL and lactation performance, intermediate GL seems optimal when considering dystocia.

Uso de antimicrobiano nanoparticulado para o tratamento da mastite subclínica de ovelhas de corte no período seco / Use of nanoparticulated antimicrobians to treat subclinical mastitis of ewes during the dry period

A inflamação da glândula mamária é uma das principais causas de prejuízo na ovinocultura. Este estudo teve como objetivo investigar as taxas de cura do tratamento da mastite subclínica após infusão intramamária de princípio ativo antimicrobiano no momento da secagem, em formulações convencional e nanoparticulada. Os rebanhos estavam localizados em São Carlos, São Paulo, Brasil. Analisou-se um total de 584 glândulas mamárias de 307 ovelhas de aptidão para produção de carne. Triagem prévia dos casos subclínicos de mastite foi efetuada por meio do California Mastitis Test (CMT) e/ou da contagem de células somáticas (CCS). Análises microbiológicas foram realizadas para confirmação da etiologia infecciosa. As glândulas mamárias com mastite subclínica foram distribuídas em três grupos: G1 (Controle; glândulas mamárias que não receberam tratamento antimicrobiano); G2 (glândulas mamárias em que foi administrado 100 mg de cloxacilina benzatina em estrutura convencional) e G3 (glândulas mamárias em que foi administrado 50 mg de cloxacilina benzatina em estrutura nanoencapsulada). O tratamento aplicado ao G3 mostrou-se mais eficiente (P=0,047) na cura de glândulas mamárias com mastite subclínica. O uso da cloxacilina nanoencapsulada no momento da secagem de ovelhas de corte auxilia no controle da mastite subclínica infecciosa e reduz os prejuízos consequentes.(AU)

Inflammation of the mammary gland is one of the main causes of losses in sheep-rearing. This study aimed to investigate the cure rates from treating subclinical mastitis after intramammary infusion of active antimicrobial agents as conventional formulations or as nanoparticles, at the time when the ewes are being dried off. A total of 584 mammary glands in 307 ewes in meat-producing herds located in São Carlos, São Paulo, Brazil, were analyzed. Prescreening of subclinical mastitis cases was done using the California mastitis test (CMT) and/or the somatic cell count (SCC). Microbiological analyses were performed to confirm the infectious etiology. The mammary glands with subclinical mastitis were distributed into three groups: G1 (control; mammary glands that did not receive any antimicrobial treatment); G2 (mammary glands to which 100mg of benzathine cloxacillin in conventional form were administered); and G3 (mammary glands to which 50mg of benzathine cloxacillin in nanoparticulate form were administered). The treatment applied to G3 was more efficient (P=0.047) in curing mammary glands with subclinical mastitis. Use of cloxacillin nanoparticles at the time when the ewes are being dried off helps to control infectious subclinical mastitis and reduces consequential losses among meat-producing herds.(AU)

Uso de antimicrobiano nanoparticulado para o tratamento da mastite subclínica de ovelhas de corte no período seco / Use of nanoparticulated antimicrobians to treat subclinical mastitis of ewes during the dry period

Inflammation of the mammary gland is one of the main causes of losses in sheep-rearing. This study aimed to investigate the cure rates from treating subclinical mastitis after intramammary infusion of active antimicrobial agents as conventional formulations or as nanoparticles, at the time when the ewes are being dried off. A total of 584 mammary glands in 307 ewes in meat-producing herds located in São Carlos, São Paulo, Brazil, were analyzed. Prescreening of subclinical mastitis cases was done using the California mastitis test (CMT) and/or the somatic cell count (SCC). Microbiological analyses were performed to confirm the infectious etiology. The mammary glands with subclinical mastitis were distributed into three groups: G1 (control; mammary glands that did not receive any antimicrobial treatment); G2 (mammary glands to which 100mg of benzathine cloxacillin in conventional form were administered); and G3 (mammary glands to which 50mg of benzathine cloxacillin in nanoparticulate form were administered). The treatment applied to G3 was more efficient (P=0.047) in curing mammary glands with subclinical mastitis. Use of cloxacillin nanoparticles at the time when the ewes are being dried off helps to control infectious subclinical mastitis and reduces consequential losses among meat-producing herds.(AU)

A inflamação da glândula mamária é uma das principais causas de prejuízo na ovinocultura. Este estudo teve como objetivo investigar as taxas de cura do tratamento da mastite subclínica após infusão intramamária de princípio ativo antimicrobiano no momento da secagem, em formulações convencional e nanoparticulada. Os rebanhos estavam localizados em São Carlos, São Paulo, Brasil. Analisou-se um total de 584 glândulas mamárias de 307 ovelhas de aptidão para produção de carne. Triagem prévia dos casos subclínicos de mastite foi efetuada por meio do California Mastitis Test (CMT) e/ou da contagem de células somáticas (CCS). Análises microbiológicas foram realizadas para confirmação da etiologia infecciosa. As glândulas mamárias com mastite subclínica foram distribuídas em três grupos: G1 (Controle; glândulas mamárias que não receberam tratamento antimicrobiano); G2 (glândulas mamárias em que foi administrado 100 mg de cloxacilina benzatina em estrutura convencional) e G3 (glândulas mamárias em que foi administrado 50 mg de cloxacilina benzatina em estrutura nanoencapsulada). O tratamento aplicado ao G3 mostrou-se mais eficiente (P=0,047) na cura de glândulas mamárias com mastite subclínica. O uso da cloxacilina nanoencapsulada no momento da secagem de ovelhas de corte auxilia no controle da mastite subclínica infecciosa e reduz os prejuízos consequentes.(AU)

Níveis de farelo de algodão de alta energia em suplementos múltiplos para bovinos em pastejo: desempenho e avaliação econômica / Levels of high energy cottonseed meal in multiple supplements for grazing cattle: performance and economic evaluation

O objetivo foi avaliar a substituição dos níveis de proteína do farelo de soja pela proteína do farelo de algodão (FA) de alta energia em suplementos múltiplos para bovinos de corte em pastejo no período seco do ano sobre o ganho médio diário (GMD) e viabilidade econômica. Foram utilizados 20 novilhos Nelores com peso médio inicial de 351,25±35,38 kg e idade média de 24±0,8 meses, distribuídos em quatro piquetes de Brachiaria brizantha cv. Marandu com 1,6 ha cada em delineamento inteiramente casualizado com quatro suplementos e cinco animais para avaliar os seguintes suplementos: 0FA, 25FA e 50FA correspondentes ao nível de 0, 25 e 50% de farelo de algodão de alta energia em substituição ao farelo de soja, fornecidos na quantidade de 2 kg/animal/dia, além do suplemento exclusivo com mistura mineral ad libitum (MM). Verificou-se maior ganho de peso médio diário (GMD) (P<0,0001) para animais recebendo suplementação concentrada (0,62 kg/animal/dia) em comparação aqueles do grupo controle (-0,020 kg/animal/dia). O suplemento 25FA proporcionou maior (P<0,0001) GMD (0,75kg/ animal/dia-¹) em relação ao suplemento 50FA (0,60kg/animal/dia-¹). O GMD dos animais suplementados com 0FA (0,53kg/animal/dia-¹) não diferiu (P>0,0001) do GMD dos novilhos que receberam suplemento com 25FA (0,75kg/animal/dia-¹) e com 50FA (0,60kg/animal/dia-¹). O suplemento 25FA apresentou maior retorno econômico sobre o capital investido no período. A utilização de farelo de algodão de alta energia em nível de substituição de 25% do farelo de soja em suplementos múltiplos proporcionou maior ganho de peso de bovinos e melhor viabilidade econômica.(AU)

The objective was to evaluate the substitution levels of protein from soybean meal by high energy cottonseed (CS) meal in multiple supplements for beef cattle grazing in the dry season on the average daily gain (ADG) and economic viability. Twenty Nellore steers with initial body weight of 351.25±35.38 kg and average initial age of 24±0.8 months were used, divided into four paddocks of Brachiaria brizantha cv. Marandu with 1.6 ha each incompletely randomized design with four animals and five supplements to assess the following supplements: 0CS, 25CS and 50CS corresponding to the level of 0,25 and 50% high energy cottonseed meal to replace the meal soybean, provided the amount of 2 kg/animal/day, which were compared to mineral mixture (MM). The supplement 25CS provided higher (P<0.0001) ADG (0.75kg/animal/day-¹) compared to supplement 50CS (0.60kg/animal/day-¹). The ADG of animals supplemented with 0CS (0.53kg/animal/day-¹) did not differ (P<0.0001) of the ADG of the bulls receiving supplementation with 25CS (0.75k /animal/day-¹) and 50CS (0,60kg / animal / day-¹). The 25CS supplement showed a higher economic return on invested capital in the period. The use of cottonseed meal high energy level of 25% replacement of soybean meal in multiple supplements provided greater weight gain of cattle and improved economic viability.(AU)

Estratégias de prevenção da mastite bovina no período de transição / Prevention strategies of bovine mastitis in transition period

The dry period has a high vulnerability of dairy cows to mastitis. This period is necessary in dairy cattle to optimize production in the next lactation. New intramammary infections increase signifi cantly after drying and remain high during the fi rst three post calving. This period also represents an excellent opportunity to treat existing intramammary infections and the prevention of new infections that negatively affect milk production in subsequent lactation. The fi nding of increased susceptibility infections at the beginning of the dry period and the beginning of the subsequent lactation has led to the development of treatment protocols for this period. Among the preventive measures in the control of mastitis, there is the dry cow therapy, and more recently the use of internal sealants ceilings. The mastitis control in this period is intended to reduce the number of sick breasts in the subsequent lactation, eliminate existing intramammary infections and prevent new infections during the dry period. This review aimed to address the main points related to bovine mastitis control methods in the dry season.(AU)

O período seco é considerado uma fase da lactação onde a vaca se torna vulnerável à mastite, este período é necessário em bovinos leiteiros para otimização da produção na lactação seguinte. As novas infecções intramamárias aumentam drasticamente após a secagem, e permanecem elevadas durante as primeiras três semanas pós-secagem. Esta fase representa também uma excelente oportunida­de para o tratamento de infecções intramamárias existentes e para a prevenção de novas infecções que afetam negativamente a produção leiteira da lactação subsequente. A observação de uma maior susceptibili­dade a infecções no início do período seco e no começo da próxima lactação tem levado ao desenvolvimento de protocolos de tratamento para esse período, dentre as medidas preventivas no controle da mastite, a terapia da vaca seca vem sendo adotada como uma estratégia para o controle da mastite, e mais recentemente o uso de selantes internos de tetos. O controle de mastite neste período tem a finalidade de diminuir o núme­ro de mamas enfermas na lactação subsequente, eliminação de infecções intramamárias existentes e impedir novas infecções durante o período em que a vaca permanecer seca. Esta revisão teve como objetivo abordar os principais pontos relacionados aos métodos de controle da mastite bovina no período seco.(AU)

Estratégias de prevenção da mastite bovina no período de transição / Prevention strategies of bovine mastitis in transition period

The dry period has a high vulnerability of dairy cows to mastitis. This period is necessary in dairy cattle to optimize production in the next lactation. New intramammary infections increase signifi cantly after drying and remain high during the fi rst three post calving. This period also represents an excellent opportunity to treat existing intramammary infections and the prevention of new infections that negatively affect milk production in subsequent lactation. The fi nding of increased susceptibility infections at the beginning of the dry period and the beginning of the subsequent lactation has led to the development of treatment protocols for this period. Among the preventive measures in the control of mastitis, there is the dry cow therapy, and more recently the use of internal sealants ceilings. The mastitis control in this period is intended to reduce the number of sick breasts in the subsequent lactation, eliminate existing intramammary infections and prevent new infections during the dry period. This review aimed to address the main points related to bovine mastitis control methods in the dry season.

O período seco é considerado uma fase da lactação onde a vaca se torna vulnerável à mastite, este período é necessário em bovinos leiteiros para otimização da produção na lactação seguinte. As novas infecções intramamárias aumentam drasticamente após a secagem, e permanecem elevadas durante as primeiras três semanas pós-secagem. Esta fase representa também uma excelente oportunida­de para o tratamento de infecções intramamárias existentes e para a prevenção de novas infecções que afetam negativamente a produção leiteira da lactação subsequente. A observação de uma maior susceptibili­dade a infecções no início do período seco e no começo da próxima lactação tem levado ao desenvolvimento de protocolos de tratamento para esse período, dentre as medidas preventivas no controle da mastite, a terapia da vaca seca vem sendo adotada como uma estratégia para o controle da mastite, e mais recentemente o uso de selantes internos de tetos. O controle de mastite neste período tem a finalidade de diminuir o núme­ro de mamas enfermas na lactação subsequente, eliminação de infecções intramamárias existentes e impedir novas infecções durante o período em que a vaca permanecer seca. Esta revisão teve como objetivo abordar os principais pontos relacionados aos métodos de controle da mastite bovina no período seco.

Níveis de farelo de algodão de alta energia em suplementos múltiplos para bovinos em pastejo: desempenho e avaliação econômica / Levels of high energy cottonseed meal in multiple supplements for grazing cattle: performance and economic evaluation

O objetivo foi avaliar a substituição dos níveis de proteína do farelo de soja pela proteína do farelo de algodão (FA) de alta energia em suplementos múltiplos para bovinos de corte em pastejo no período seco do ano sobre o ganho médio diário (GMD) e viabilidade econômica. Foram utilizados 20 novilhos Nelores com peso médio inicial de 351,25±35,38 kg e idade média de 24±0,8 meses, distribuídos em quatro piquetes de Brachiaria brizantha cv. Marandu com 1,6 ha cada em delineamento inteiramente casualizado com quatro suplementos e cinco animais para avaliar os seguintes suplementos: 0FA, 25FA e 50FA correspondentes ao nível de 0, 25 e 50% de farelo de algodão de alta energia em substituição ao farelo de soja, fornecidos na quantidade de 2 kg/animal/dia, além do suplemento exclusivo com mistura mineral ad libitum (MM). Verificou-se maior ganho de peso médio diário (GMD) (P0,0001) do GMD dos novilhos que receberam suplemento com 25FA (0,75kg/animal/dia-¹) e com 50FA (0,60kg/animal/dia-¹). O suplemento 25FA apresentou maior retorno econômico sobre o capital investido no período. A utilização de farelo de algodão de alta energia em nível de substituição de 25% do farelo de soja em suplementos múltiplos proporcionou maior ganho de peso de bovinos e melhor viabilidade econômica.

The objective was to evaluate the substitution levels of protein from soybean meal by high energy cottonseed (CS) meal in multiple supplements for beef cattle grazing in the dry season on the average daily gain (ADG) and economic viability. Twenty Nellore steers with initial body weight of 351.25±35.38 kg and average initial age of 24±0.8 months were used, divided into four paddocks of Brachiaria brizantha cv. Marandu with 1.6 ha each incompletely randomized design with four animals and five supplements to assess the following supplements: 0CS, 25CS and 50CS corresponding to the level of 0,25 and 50% high energy cottonseed meal to replace the meal soybean, provided the amount of 2 kg/animal/day, which were compared to mineral mixture (MM). The supplement 25CS provided higher (P<0.0001) ADG (0.75kg/animal/day-¹) compared to supplement 50CS (0.60kg/animal/day-¹). The ADG of animals supplemented with 0CS (0.53kg/animal/day-¹) did not differ (P<0.0001) of the ADG of the bulls receiving supplementation with 25CS (0.75k /animal/day-¹) and 50CS (0,60kg / animal / day-¹). The 25CS supplement showed a higher economic return on invested capital in the period. The use of cottonseed meal high energy level of 25% replacement of soybean meal in multiple supplements provided greater weight gain of cattle and improved economic viability.

Ocorrência da infecção por Cryptosporidium spp. em cabritos (Capra hircus) / Occurrence of infection by Cryptosporidium spp. in goat kids (Capra hircus)

O presente estudo teve como objetivo determinar a ocorrência da infecção por Cryptosporidium spp. em cabritos de Quixadá, Ceará, Brasil. Participaram do estudo 400 cabritos, com idade entre três e 360 dias, de ambos os sexos, com e sem padrão racial definido, procedentes de 25 estabelecimentos rurais distribuídos em três circuitos. As fezes foram cadastradas de acordo com o aspecto e cor, distribuídas em tubos tipo "eppendorf®" e congeladas in natura a -20°C, até o momento das extrações de DNA genômico do parasito com auxílio de kit comercial. Para amplificação de fragmentos da subunidade 18S do RNA ribossômico (rRNA) foi utilizada a "Nested"-PCR. A ocorrência de Cryptosporidium spp em cabritos de Quixadá foi de 7,50% (30/400). A frequência no período seco e no chuvoso foi de 9,55% (19/199) e 5,47% (11/201), respectivamente (χ²=2,39 e P>0,05). Amostras positivas foram identificadas em 64,00% (16/25) das propriedades estudadas e dessas amostras 50,00% (15/30) e 70,00% (21/30) tinham as fezes com aspecto e cor normais, respectivamente, sugerindo que cabritos assintomáticos estão eliminando oocistos. Não foi observada positividade para Cryptosporidium spp. em animais com 301 a 360 dias, demonstrando que animais mais velhos apresentam menos possibilidade de se infectarem com o parasito.(AU)

The present study aimed to determine the occurrence of infection by Cryptosporidium spp. in goat kids from Quixadá, Ceará, Brazil. The study included 400 goat kids of both sexes, 3 to 360 days old, with or without defined breed, originating from 25 farms distributed in three circuits. Feces were registered in accordance with the appearance and color, distributed into tubes Eppendorf tubes and frozen in natura at-20°C until the moment of extraction of genomic DNA from the parasite with the aid of a commercial kit. For amplification of fragments of the 18S subunit of ribosomal RNA (rRNA) was used to Nested PCR. The occurrence of Cryptosporidium spp. in goats kids of the Quixadá was 7.50% (30/400). The frequency in the dry period and rainy was 9.55% (19/199) and 5.47% (11/201) respectively (χ²=2.39 and P>0.05). Positive samples were identified in 64.00% (16/25) of the studied farms, and from these samples 50.00% (15/30) and 70.00% (21/30) had feces with normal appearance and color respectively, suggesting that the asymptomatic goats were eliminating oocysts. No positivity for Cryptosporidium spp. was observed in 301 to 360-day-old goats, demonstrating that older animals have less chance to become infected with the parasite.(AU)

Ocorrência da infecção por Cryptosporidium spp. em cabritos (Capra hircus) / Occurrence of infection by Cryptosporidium spp. in goat kids (Capra hircus)

O presente estudo teve como objetivo determinar a ocorrência da infecção por Cryptosporidium spp. em cabritos de Quixadá, Ceará, Brasil. Participaram do estudo 400 cabritos, com idade entre três e 360 dias, de ambos os sexos, com e sem padrão racial definido, procedentes de 25 estabelecimentos rurais distribuídos em três circuitos. As fezes foram cadastradas de acordo com o aspecto e cor, distribuídas em tubos tipo "eppendorf®" e congeladas in natura a -20°C, até o momento das extrações de DNA genômico do parasito com auxílio de kit comercial. Para amplificação de fragmentos da subunidade 18S do RNA ribossômico (rRNA) foi utilizada a "Nested"-PCR. A ocorrência de Cryptosporidium spp em cabritos de Quixadá foi de 7,50% (30/400). A frequência no período seco e no chuvoso foi de 9,55% (19/199) e 5,47% (11/201), respectivamente (χ²=2,39 e P>0,05). Amostras positivas foram identificadas em 64,00% (16/25) das propriedades estudadas e dessas amostras 50,00% (15/30) e 70,00% (21/30) tinham as fezes com aspecto e cor normais, respectivamente, sugerindo que cabritos assintomáticos estão eliminando oocistos. Não foi observada positividade para Cryptosporidium spp. em animais com 301 a 360 dias, demonstrando que animais mais velhos apresentam menos possibilidade de se infectarem com o parasito...

The present study aimed to determine the occurrence of infection by Cryptosporidium spp. in goat kids from Quixadá, Ceará, Brazil. The study included 400 goat kids of both sexes, 3 to 360 days old, with or without defined breed, originating from 25 farms distributed in three circuits. Feces were registered in accordance with the appearance and color, distributed into tubes Eppendorf tubes and frozen in natura at-20°C until the moment of extraction of genomic DNA from the parasite with the aid of a commercial kit. For amplification of fragments of the 18S subunit of ribosomal RNA (rRNA) was used to Nested PCR. The occurrence of Cryptosporidium spp. in goats kids of the Quixadá was 7.50% (30/400). The frequency in the dry period and rainy was 9.55% (19/199) and 5.47% (11/201) respectively (χ²=2.39 and P>0.05). Positive samples were identified in 64.00% (16/25) of the studied farms, and from these samples 50.00% (15/30) and 70.00% (21/30) had feces with normal appearance and color respectively, suggesting that the asymptomatic goats were eliminating oocysts. No positivity for Cryptosporidium spp. was observed in 301 to 360-day-old goats, demonstrating that older animals have less chance to become infected with the parasite...

Comparison of systemic and intramammary dry cow treatments / Comparación de terapias sistémicas e intramamarias para el periodo seco en vacas lecheras

Objective. To compare four different dry cow treatments (DCT) and establish their effectiveness in reducing intramammary infections (IIM). Materials and methods. DCTs included systemic tylosin (12g) alone or accompanied by cefapirine intramammary infusions and or an internal teat sealant. A total number of 278 cows at the end of lactation period were randomly assigned to one of 4 dry cow treatment groups: CESE Group (n=89), intramammary cephapirin and teat sealant. TYCESE Group (n=84), intramammary cephapirin, tylosin 12 g intramuscular and teat sealant. TYSE Group (n=86), 12 g intramuscular tylosin and teat sealant; TY Group (n=76) 12 g intramuscular tylosin only. Milk samples for culture were collected at dry-off and 1 and 2 weeks after calving. Somatic cell counts (SCC) were taken from Dairy Herd Improvement Association (DHI) tests at dry-off, and the first two test days after calving. Results. Bacteria cure rate for Gram-positive intramammary infections (IMI) for TYCESE group was 93.6%, CESE group 78.9%, TYSE group 88.2%, and TY group 78.1%. All four groups showed a decrease in the SCC upon the first and second test after calving. Conclusions. The use of systemic tylosin in combination with intramammary antibiotics increased DCT effectiveness improving the Gram-positive cure rate IMI. Furthermore, systemic tylosin alone plus teat sealant is as effective as cephapirin plus teat sealant when used as DCT.

Objetivo. Comparar 4 tratamientos para el periodo seco (TPS) y establecer su efectividad en reducir infecciones intramamarias (IIM). Materiales y métodos. Los TPS incluían tilosina sistémica (12 g) solamente o acompañada con infusiones intramamarias de cefapirina y/o un sellante interno de pezones. Un total de 278 vacas al final de la lactancia fueron asignadas al azar a 1 de 4 grupos de tratamiento. Grupo CESE (n=89), cefapirina y sellante interno de pezones. Gupo TYCESE (n=84), cephapirina intramamaria, tilosina intramuscular y sellador interno de pezones. Grupo TYSE (n=86), tilosina intramuscular y sellante interno de pezones. Grupo TY (n=76) tilosina intramuscular solamente. Muestras de leche de cada cuarto productivo fueron tomadas al momento del secado, y 1 y 2 semanas después del parto. Los recuentos individuales de células somáticas (RCS) fueron tomados del control lechero (DHI) en sus pruebas de antes del momento de secado, y las primeras dos pruebas después del parto. Resultados. Las tasa de cura bacteriológica para IIM causadas por Gram positivos en TYCESE fue de 93.6%, para CESE 78.9%, TYSE 88.2% y TY 78.1%. Todos los grupos de tratamiento mostraron una disminución en RCS a la primera y segunda prueba despues del parto en comparación con la de secado. Conclusiones. El uso de tilosina en combinación con cefapirina incremento la efectividad del TPS, mejorando las tasas de cura de IIM por Gram positivos. Además TYSE fue tan efectivo como CESE en la reducción de IIM.

Intake and Performance of Yearling Steers Grazing Guineagrass (Panicum maximum cv. Tanzânia) Pasture Supplemented with Different Energy Sources.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of supplements containing different energy sources in relation to mineral supplementation of steers grazing guineagrass (Panicum maximum cv Tanzânia) pasture, during the dry season. The experimental design was a randomized block with three treatments and four replications. The treatments consisted of a mineral supplementation and two other supplements, one based on corn seed and the other based on soybean hulls, and provided at 0.8% of body weight. Forty-eight, 12 month-old crossbred steers with an average initial body weight of 267 kg, were assigned to twelve paddocks (1,125 ha) of guineagrass. The animals that were fed with soybean hulls and corn seed presented a greater average daily gain (0.982 and 0.937) when compared with the mineral supplementation. Soybean hulls can be used as a satisfactory food source, replacing corn as an energy source in the supplementation of beef cattle without compromising animal performance.

Leveduras no rúmen de caprinos e bovinos de corte criados em pastagem tropicais / Yeasts in the rumen of beef steers and goats raised on tropical pasture

Yeasts suplemented in the rumen have been produced benefic interations in the digestion and in the health of the ruminants. This study aimed to quantify, to isolate and, to identify aerobic fungi and yeasts naturally present in the rumen of goats and cattle raised on tropical pastures of the North of Minas Gerais State, Brazil. Samples of 15mL of ruminal juice from 18 hibrid goats and 31 crossbred Nellore steers were used. The physico-chemical characteristics of the samples were evaluated and mycological culture, quantification, and identification of the aerobic fungi were performed. The results indicated the absence of yeasts in the ruminal fluid of steers. However, theses microorganisms were cultured from ruminal juice for all evaluated goats, at an average concentration of 3.2 x 10VCFU/mL. The species Pichia membranifaciens was the most frequently identified yeast, suggesting its participation in the ruminal microbiot of theses small ruminants.(AU)

Bacterias patógenas potenciales al inicio del período seco de vacas doble propósito con mastitis subclínicas / Potential pathogen bacteria during the dry period in dual purpose cows with subclinical mastitis

Los aportes científicos en el campo de la producción láctea alcanzan más de 100 años de arduo estudio, con el fin de producir la mayor cantidad de leche por vaca/año acompañado de una excelente salubridad de la glándula mamaria. Esta salud de la ubre se ha visto afectada por la inflamación del parénquima denominada mastitis causada generalmente por bacterias como los Staphylococcus spp., Streptococcus spp., Corynebacterium spp., enterobacterias, entre otras. El objetivo de este trabajo fue determinar las bacterias existentes en glándulas mamarias con mastitis subclínica al inicio del período seco. Para ello se seleccionaron al azar 39 vacas mestizas doble propósito multíparas al final de la lactancia procedentes de un mismo sistema de producción, con siete meses de gestación, negativas en la prueba de fondo negro y con resultados de CMT ³ +2. Se tomaron muestras de leche para estudio bacteriológico. Se observó crecimiento bacteriano a partir de la leche de 96 cuartos mamarios (61,53%) y en la leche de 49 cuartos no hubo crecimiento (31,41%). Las bacterias más aisladas fueron el Corynebacterium bovis (46,73%), Staphylococcus epidermidis (20,56%), Staphylococcus aureus (12,15%) y Arcanobacterium pyogenes (7,48%). De acuerdo al tipo de crecimiento, se obtuvo un 88,54% de crecimiento puro y un 11,46% de crecimiento mixto y de acuerdo al potencial de patogenicidad se obtuvo un 73,82% de patógenos menores y un 18,69% de patógenos mayores. En conclusión, se identificaron las bacterias presentes en la glándula mamaria con mastitis subclínica al inicio del período seco, su distribución en cuanto a género, especie, tipo de crecimiento y potencial de patogenicidad. Asimismo, estas bacterias pueden generar mastitis clínica en el período productivo con la consecuente baja en la calidad y cantidad de leche producida.

Scientific research in milk production has been evolving over more than 100 years to attain the highest amount of milk/ cow/year along with an excellent health status of the mammary gland. This health status of the mammary gland is affected by parenchymal inflammation, i.e. mastitis, caused in general by bacteria, such as Staphylococcus spp., Streptococcus spp., Corynebacterium spp. and enterobacteria. The objective of this trial was to determine the bacterias present in mammary glands with subclinical mastitis at the beginning of the dry period. Thirty nine (39) multiparous crossbred dual purpose cows at the end of the lactating period were randomly selected; they had a seven-month gestation, and they were negative at the black bottom cup test; they have a ³ +2 score at the CMT as well. Milk samples were taken for bacteriological study. Bacterial growth was observed in milk sample from 96 udder quarters (61.53%) and in milk sample from 49 quarters there was no growth (31.41%). The most frequently isolated bacteria were Corynebacterium bovis (46.73%), Staphylococcus epidermidis (20.56%), Staphylococcus aureus (12.15%) and Arcanobacterium pyogenes (7.48%). As for growth type, 88.54% of cultures were pure cultures and 11.46% were mixed cultures. As for pathogenicity potential, 73.82% of the isolates were minor pathogens and 18.69% were major pathogens. In conclusion, bacteria in mammary glands with subclinical mastitis at the dry period, their distribution as for genus and species, growth type and pathogenicity potential were identified. On other hand, these bacteria can generate clinical mastitis in the lactating period with the resulting decrease in the quality and quantity of yielded milk.