Blood parameters and parasite burden in cattle with chronic fascioliasis.

Fascioliasis is a trematodiasis that affects domestic and wild animals as well as humans worldwide. It is a well-recognized disease in livestock, were it produces serious economic losses. Yet in cattle, there is limited information about the burden of liver flukes and its relation to the eggs per gram shed to the environment. There is also lack of knowledge on the effect of parasite load in blood parameters of infected animals, which is important to evaluate the severity and progression of the disease. The objective of this work was to gain insight in these aspects. Cattle from Mendoza province, Argentina, were inspected at a farm and at the abattoir determining the presence or absence of Fasciola hepatica. Each animal was sampled for blood and feces and in the slaughterhouse the livers were inspected. Hematology and blood chemistry parameters were determined, feces were examined for F. hepatica eggs by a quantitative sedimentation technique and livers were thoroughly inspected to determine the number of flukes. Infected cattle presented a mild burden of liver flukes per animal, strongly correlated (r = 0.72) to the number of eggs per gram of feces. The total number of eggs (X̄=35,100) shed per animal to the environment and the type of livestock management techniques in the region exacerbate the role of cattle as efficient reservoirs of this disease. Statistically significant lower red blood cell, lymphocyte and neutrophil counts were observed in infected compared to uninfected animals. All hepatic parameters tested showed highly statistically significant differences (p < 0.001) as well as proteins by cause of rise of globulins in infected cattle. The correlation between the amount of flukes in the liver and the number of eggs per gram of faces indicates coprology as a reliable and cost-effective method to infer parasite burden. The impact of fascioliasis on blood parameters can be of aid for the veterinary practitioner on the assessment of this disease on cattle.

Prolonged survival of venereal Tritrichomonas foetus parasite in the gastrointestinal tract, bovine fecal extract, and water.

IMPORTANCE: Nowadays, the routine herd diagnosis is usually performed exclusively on bulls, as they remain permanently infected, and prevention and control of Tritrichomonas foetus transmission are based on identifying infected animals and culling practices. The existence of other forms of transmission and the possible role of pseudocysts or cyst-like structures as resistant forms requires rethinking the current management and control of this parasitic disease in the future in some livestock regions of the world.

Lipids in the reproduction of sires.

The main class of nutritional interest for lipids are fatty acids (FA), which correspond to 90% of triglycerides, the main form of lipid storage in both plants and animals. FAs serve as a source of energy in the diet of cattle; however, they also have an important non-caloric effect on animal organisms as they are important components of the physical and functional structures of cells and participate in the composition of steroid hormones. As such, research has studied the improvement of semen quality through the provision of polyunsaturated FAs in bull diets, as well as the use of FAs in semen extenders in order to reduce damage to sperm cells, which can alter lipid composition and the quality of frozen sperm. Therefore, the objective of this work was to review the effectiveness of lipids on reproductive efficiency, based on their effects on semen quality and hormonal production. Supplementation with polyunsaturated FAs positively alters semen composition and in vitro fertility; however, results vary according to the type of FA used, the method of administration, and its quality. Fish oil and linseed oil showed better results in qualitative parameters in fresh and thawed semen. The use of cyclodextrins to incorporate or extract cholesterol from plasma membranes can also improve the viability of cryopreserved semen.

Comparison of coronary arteries morphometry and distribution in bovines with humans and other animal species.

Background: The left coronary artery (LCA) in the bovines is more developed than the right. Aim: The objective of the study is to describe the bovine coronary system from a morphological point of view, including the morphometry and its distribution. Methods: Arciform suture with 2.0 silk was applied around the sinus orifice and coronary ostium and a number 14 catheter was installed, to perfuse semi-synthetic polyester resin, consisting of a mixture of 85% GP40L palatal with 15% styrene with red color mineral. Results: The average weight of 28 bovine hearts used in our study was 1.534.1 kg. The right coronary artery had a proximal caliber of 5 +/- 0.9 mm. The LCA caliber and length were 9.4 +/- 1.2 and 18.3 +/- 4.8 mm, respectively. This artery was divided into two branches in 85.7% of the cases and trifurcated in 14.3%. The paraconal interventricular branch (PIB) ended more frequently in the apex (46.4%), and its proximal caliber was 6.4 +/- 1.4 mm. The left circumflex branch ended in 82.1% in the subsinusal interventricular sulcus, and its proximal caliber was 5.9 +/- 1.2 mm. The proximal calibers of the PIB and the left circumflex branch did not present statistically significant differences (p = 0.137). The sinoatrial branch presented a dual origin (right and LCA) in 46.4% of the cases and a single origin from the LCA in 53.6% of the samples. In the evaluated hearts, left coronary dominance was observed in most cases (96.4%). Their presence of anastomosis between the branches of the coronary arteries was observed in 57.1% of cases. Conclusion: The presence of a myocardial bridge was found in six hearts (21.4%). In bovines, a high percentage of anastomosis was found, a protective factor in obstruction of the coronary arterial branches.

Oocyte quality in adapted Bos taurus taurus cows.

The objective of the current study was to determine the performance of creole cows of the Chino Santandereano breed in the ultrasound-guided follicular aspiration technique (OPU) and the quality of oocytes recovered. A total of 15 multiparous cows were selected from a herd located in the department of Santander with tropical climate. The cows were submitted to 5 sessions of follicular aspiration with an interval of 45 days. In each aspiration session, 7.9 ± 0.7 oocytes were recovered per cow, with a recovery rate of 64.9% ± 0.5 and a rate of viable and non-viable oocytes of 64.3% ± 0.6 and 35.7% ± 0.7, respectively. A difference (P < 0.05) in oocyte quality was presented for grades I, II and III (7.7 ± 0.4, 19.8 ± 0.5 and 36.8 ± 0.5, respectively). The results suggest that Chino Santandereano cows submitted to the OPU technique have a higher percentage of grade III oocytes recovered.

Mecanismos epigenéticos nos espermatozoides e o impacto sobre a fertilidade masculina / Epigenetic mechanisms on sperm cells and the impact on male fertility

Por ser uma célula altamente especializada, o espermatozoide apresenta diferentes mecanismos epigenéticos, sendo os principais as metilações do DNA, o código de histonas, os ncRNAs (RNAs não codificadores), e a alta condensação da cromatina pela presença das protaminas. Estes mecanismos interagem entre si, contribuindo para a formação do epigenoma espermático, que modela a carga molecular espermática, que, por sua vez, pode impactar sobre as características do desenvolvimento embrionário e da progênie. Dessa forma, atualmente é consenso que o papel do espermatozoide ultrapassa a entrega de DNA de qualidade para o oócito no momento da fecundação. Pesquisas recentes de diversos grupos, incluindo o nosso, mostram que além da contribuição com DNA de qualidade, o espermatozoide entrega moléculas ao oócito no momento da fecundação que influenciam o desenvolvimento do embrião. Recentemente, essas moléculas de origem espermática (Em inglês: sperm-borne) também são associadas com alterações metabólicas e cognitivas da progênie. Embora ainda pouco se entenda como esses mecanismos podem persistir mesmo com o ciclo de reprogramação celular que ocorre logo após a fecundação, é evidente que estes podem impactar as características da progênie. Nesta revisão abordaremos sobre a modulação do epigenoma espermático e seus efeitos no desenvolvimento embrionário.(AU)

Since it is a highly specialized cell, the spermatozoa display different epigenetic mechanisms; the main ones are DNA methylation, histone code, ncRNAs (non-coding RNAs), and high chromatin condensation by the presence of protamines. These mechanisms act in synergy contributing to forming the sperm epigenome, which modulates the spermatic molecular cargo, and, may impact embryo and offspring development features. Thus, it is currently a consensus that the role of spermatozoa goes beyond delivering quality DNA to the oocyte at fertilization. Relevant findings from several research groups, including ours, have shown that sperm delivers several molecules to the oocyte at fertilization, beyond the contribution to DNA, which influences the development of the embryo. Recently, these sperm-borne molecules have also been associated with metabolic and cognitive changes in the offspring. Although the mechanism by which these changes can persist even after embryo reprogramming is not completely understood, evidence shows that sperm cell molecular content impacts embryo and offspring development. This review will mainly focus on the modulation of the sperm epigenome and its effects on embryo development.(AU)

Mapping the Spatiotemporal Distribution of Bovine Rabies in Colombia, 2005-2019.

Introduction: Rabies is caused by a virus belonging to the genus Lyssavirus and family Rhabdoviridae, which can infect any mammal including humans. Hematophagous, fructivorous, and insectivorous bats have become the main reservoir of sylvatic rabies in Latin America. In the sylvatic cycle, hematophagous bats are usually the main reservoir. In contrast, dogs and cats fulfil this critical role in the urban cycle. However, in rural areas, the most affected animals are bovines. They show clinical signs such as behavioural changes, hypersalivation, muscle tremors, spasms caused by extensive damage to the central nervous system, and death from respiratory paralysis. Objective: To describe the spatiotemporal distribution of bovine rabies in Colombia from 2005 to 2019. Methods: Retrospective cross-sectional descriptive observational study, based on the monthly reports of the Colombian Agricultural Institute (ICA) on the surveillance of bovine rabies in Colombia from 2005 to 2019, retrieved from its official website. The data were converted to databases in Microsoft Access 365®. Multiple epidemiological maps were developed with the GIS software Kosmo RC1® 3.0 coupled to the shape files (.shp) of all the country's municipalities. Results: During the study period, 4888 cases of rabies were confirmed in cattle, ranging from a peak of 542 cases (11.1%) in 2014 to 43 in 2019 (0.88%). From 2014 to 2019, there has been a significant reduction in the annual national number of cases (r2 = 0.9509, p < 0.05). In 2019, 32.6% of the cases occurred in January, and 48.8% occurred in the department of Sucre. In 2009, the maximum number of spatial clusters (13) occurred in the Orinoquia region, where other clusters were also identified in 2005, 2006 and 2008. In 2018, 98 outbreaks were identified that led to the death of cattle and other animals, 28.6% of them in the department of Sucre. In the first half of 2019, of 38 outbreaks, 55.2% were identified in Sucre. Conclusions: It is necessary to review the current national program for the prevention and control of rabies in cattle, incorporating concepts from the ecology of bats, as well as the prediction of contagion waves of geographical and temporal spread in the context of the OneHealth Approach. Sylvatic rabies remains a threat in Colombia that requires further study.

Diagnóstico de parasitosis gastrointestinal en ganado vacuno de razas carniceras con diferentes técnicas coproparasitológicas / Diagnosis of gastrointestinal parasitosis in beef cattle of butcher breeds with different coproparasitological techniques

RESUMEN Las parasitosis gastrointestinales en bovinos de producción son uno de los problemas sanitarios más importantes a nivel mundial. Estos nematodos ocasionan problemas gastroentéricos que se caracterizan clínicamente por diarrea, debilidad, hemorragias y deshidratación. Entre las parasitosis gastrointestinales causadas por nematodos en ganado bovino, se destacan las familias: Trichuridae, Trichostrongylidae, Ancylostomidae, Ascaridae y Strongyloididae. El propósito de esta investigación fue determinar la eficacia de las distintas técnicas coproparasitológicas cualitativas y cuantitativas para la detección de nematodos gastrointestinales en ganado bovino. Para este estudio se utilizaron 250 muestras de vacas de raza carnicera, divididos en diferentes grupos, para la aplicación de las técnicas coproparasitológicas de tipo cualitativo y cuantitativo, los cuales fueron escogidos específicamente teniendo en cuenta criterios de inclusión y exclusión para cada animal. Los resultados entregados por este estudio indicaron que el mayor porcentaje en la identificación de estados infectantes parasitarios fue por medio de las técnicas coproparasitologicas de tipo cualitativo, principalmente aquellas de flotación de sulfato de zinc y magnesio con un 50%.

ABSTRACT Gastrointestinal parasites in production cattle are one of the most important health problems worldwide. These nematodes cause gastroenteric problems that are clinically characterized by diarrhoea, weakness, bleeding and dehydration. Within the gastrointestinal parasites caused by nematodes in cattle, the following families stand out: Trichuridae, Trichostrongylidae, Ancylostomidae, Ascaridae and Strongyloididae. The purpose of this research was to determine the efficacy of the different qualitative and quantitative coproparasitological techniques for the detection of gastrointestinal nematodes in cattle. For this study, 250 samples of beef breed cows were used, divided into different groups, for the application of qualitative and quantitative coproparasitological techniques, which were specifically chosen taking into account inclusion and exclusion criteria for each animal. The results delivered by this study indicated that the highest percentage in the identification of parasitic infective states was through qualitative coproparasitological techniques, focused mainly on zinc and magnesium sulfate flotation techniques with 50%.

Estimation of lactation curves of Gyr cattle and some associated production parameters in the Colombian low tropic

Background: The Gyr breed is widely used in Colombian low tropic dairy production systems. During the last 10 years, the Asociación Colombiana de Criadores de Ganado Cebú† ASOCEBU, has been leading a dairy milk control program which led to the creation of a dataset that permits to carry out the first analysis of milk yield in Gyr cattle in the country using records from several herds. Objectives: To study milk production dynamics of Gyr cattle in the Colombian low tropic through the estimation of lactation curves and four derived production parameters: total milk yield between 5 and 305 days (TMY305), peak milk yield (PMY), days at peak (DP) and persistency (P). Methods: 13,798 daily milk yield records from 1,510 cows performing in 103 herds were used; the total number of lactations was 2,480. Four models were considered: Wood, Wiltmink, Papajcsik & Bordero, and a second-degree polynomial. Mean square error, mean absolute error, mean square error of prediction, Akaike and Bayesian information criteria were used to select the model better describing each lactation using the majority rule, that is, the model selected by most criteria was the chosen one. The shape of each fitted lactation curve was checked using basic results from calculus which permitted the classification of the estimated curves into two groups: typical and atypical; only typical functions were used to compute the four aforementioned production parameters. Results: The second-order polynomial was the model most frequently selected, while the Papajcsik & Bordero model had the lowest frequency. Average TMY305, PMY, DP and P were 3,489.86 kg, 17.28 kg, 57.17 days, and 0.83, respectively, with coefficients of variation: 0.27, 0.21, 0.41, and 0.16. Conclusions: This study permitted to identify individuals with outstanding phenotypic performance. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study of this kind involving thousands of lactations from Gyr cows performing in several regions of Colombian low tropic.

Antecedentes: La raza Gyr es ampliamente utilizada en las lecherías de trópico bajo en Colombia. Durante los últimos 10 años, la Asociación Colombiana de Criadores de Ganado Cebú ASOCEBU, ha liderado un programa de control lechero que generó una base de datos que permite llevar a cabo el primer análisis de producción de leche de la raza Gyr en el país, considerando individuos de varias fincas. Objetivos: Caracterizar la dinámica de producción de leche de ganado Gyr en el trópico bajo colombiano mediante la estimación de curvas de lactancia y cuatro parámetros de producción derivados: producción total entre 5 y 305 días (TMY305), pico de lactancia (PMY), días al pico (DP) y persistencia (P) Métodos: Se utilizaron 13.798 registros de producción diaria de leche de 1.510 vacas provenientes de 103 fincas, el total de lactancias fue 2.480. Se consideraron cuatro modelos: Wood, Wiltmink, Papajcsik & Bordero, y un polinomio de segundo grado. Los criterios usados para elegir el modelo que mejor describió cada lactancia fueron: error cuadrático medio, error absoluto medio, error cuadrático medio de predicción, criterio de información de Akaike y criterio de información Bayesiano. Se utilizó el criterio de mayoría, esto es, el modelo seleccionado fue aquel elegido por más criterios. La forma de cada una de las curvas de lactancia estimadas fue chequeada utilizando resultados básicos del cálculo, esto permitió clasificar las curvas estimadas en dos grupos: típicas y atípicas; solamente las curvas típicas fueron empleadas para calcular los cuatro parámetros antes mencionados. Resultados: El polinomio de segundo grado fue el modelo que se seleccionó con mayor frecuencia, mientras que el modelo Papajcsik & Bordero tuvo la menor frecuencia. Los promedios para TMY305, PMY, DP y P fueron 3.489,86 kg, 17,28 kg, 57,17 días, y 0,83, respectivamente, con coeficientes de variación 0,27, 0,21, 0,41 y 0,16 Conclusiones: Este estudio permitió identificar individuos con desempeño fenotípico sobresaliente. De acuerdo al estado del arte, este es el primer estudio de este tipo que considera miles de lactancias de vacas Gyr provenientes de varias regiones del trópico bajo colombiano.

Antecedentes: Gir é uma raça Bos indicus amplamente utilizada em sistemas de produção leiteira no trópico baixo Colombiano. A Asociación Colombiana de Criadores de Ganado CebúASOCEBU, lidera um programa de controle de leite nos últimos 10 anos, o que permitiu à coleta de um conjunto de dados para realizar a primeira análise de produção de leite em bovinos Gir no país com informações de vários rebanhos. Objetivo: Estudar a dinâmica da produção de leite por meio da estimativa das curvas de lactação e quatro parâmetros de produção derivados: produção total de leite entre 5 e 305 dias (TMY305), produção de leite no pico de lactação (PMY), dias em produção de leite no pico de lactação (DP) e persistência (P). Métodos: Foram utilizados 13.798 registros de produção diária de leite de 1.510 vacas de 103 fazendas , totalizando 2.480 lactações. Foram considerados quatro modelos: Wood, Wiltmink, Papajcsik & Bordero e um polinômio de segundo grau. Para selecionar o modelo que melhor descreve cada lactação foram utilizados os seguintes critérios: erro quadrado médio, erro absoluto médio, e erro quadrado médio de predição. O modelo selecionado pela maioria dos parâmetros, de acordo com os critérios de informação de Akaike e Bayesiano, foi o escolhido. A forma de cada curva de lactação ajustada foi verificada utilizando os resultados básicos do cálculo, isso permitiu classificar as curvas estimadas em dois grupos: típico e atípico, e apenas funções típicas foram utilizadas para calcular os quatro parâmetros de produção acima mencionados Resultados: O polinômio de segunda ordem foi o modelo mais frequentemente selecionado, enquanto o modelo Papajcsik & Bordero apresentou a menor frequência. A média de TMY305, PMY, DP e P foram 3.489,86 kg, 17,28 kg, 57,17 d e 0,83, respectivamente, com coeficientes de variação de 0,27, 0,21, 0,41 e 0,16. Conclusões: Este estudo permitiu identificar indivíduos com excelente desempenho fenotípico. De acordo com a literatura atual, este é o primeiro estudo envolvendo milhares de lactações de vacas Gir em várias regiões do trópico baixo colombiano.

Mannheimia varigena as the etiologic agent of lameness and coronary band lesion in cattle / Mannheimia varigena como agente etiológico de claudicação e lesão na banda coronária em bovinos

Mannheimia varigena was identified as the etiologic agent of lameness and coronary band lesion in 30% of cattle in a farm located in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Swab samples from the lesions were cultured in McConkey Agar and Blood Agar for microbiological identification. Culture growth was submitted to Gram staining and Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) identification. Antimicrobial susceptibility test based on disc diffusion was performed for three antibiotics: ceftiofur, gentamicin and florfenicol. Furthermore, molecular characterization of 16S rDNA gene sequencing was performed and the data was used in a phylogenetic analysis. For that purpose, total DNA was extracted by thermo extraction directly from the bacterial colonies and the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed. Gram-negative Mannheimia varigena strain LBV010/22 was identified as the causative of the lesions. The strain was susceptible to all antibiotics tested. The phylogenetic analysis demonstrated that the analyzed strain is closely related to M. varigena strains from pyelonephritis and respiratory tract. Overall, this is the first report of M. varigena as the causative agent of coronary band injury in bovine. Therefore, our findings show the importance of an accurate microbiological identification of infectious agent in lameness cases in order to prevent the occurrence and perform an appropriate treatment in the future.

Mannheimia varigena foi identificada como agente etiológico de claudicação e lesão de banda coronária em 30% dos bovinos de uma fazenda localizada no Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. Amostras de swab das lesões foram cultivadas em Ágar McConkey e Ágar Sangue para identificação microbiológica. O crescimento da cultura foi submetido à coloração de Gram e identificação por Espectrometria de Massa de Ionização por Dessorção a Laser Assistida por Matriz (MALDI-TOF MS). O teste de suscetibilidade antimicrobiana baseado na difusão em disco foi realizado para três antibióticos: ceftiofur, gentamicina e florfenicol. Além disso, foi realizada a caracterização molecular do sequenciamento do gene 16S rDNA e o resultado utilizado para análise filogenética. Para tanto, o DNA total foi extraído por termoextração diretamente das colônias bacterianas e uma reação em cadeia da polimerase (PCR) foi realizada. Foi identificada como causadora das lesões a cepa gram-negativa de Mannheimia varigenaLBV010/22. Ela foi suscetível a todos os antibióticos testados. A análise filogenética demonstrou que a cepa analisada está intimamente relacionada às M. varigena presentes em pielonefrite e no trato respiratório. No geral, este é o primeiro relato de M. varigenacomo agente causador de lesão de banda coronária em bovinos. Portanto, nossos achados mostram a importância de uma identificação microbiológica precisa do agente infeccioso nos casos de claudicação, a fim de prevenir a ocorrência e realizar um tratamento adequado no futuro.

Prevalence of antimicrobial-resistant Enterococcus faecium in commercial cattle: a systematic review and meta-analysis / Prevalência de Enterococcus faecium resistente a antimicrobianos na bovinocultura comercial: uma revisão sistemática e meta-análise

The use of antimicrobials in animals is broader compared to humans, which can influence the increase in microbial resistance. This study was a systematic review which determined the prevalence of resistant Enterococcus faecium in commercial cattle. Eighteen studies were included, mainly carried out in European countries (n=9) and in the production (n= 11) and retail (n= 7) environments. The main material used in the detection of the microorganism was milk. The mean prevalence of resistant E. faecium in cattle was 4.3% (95% CI = 2.8-5.0%), but the prevalence in Asia was higher [25.4% (95% CI = 20.5-30.6%)]. There was a higher prevalence in samples from retail (13.7%; 95% CI=11.5-16.1%) and collected mainly from equipment surfaces (12.5%; 95% CI= 5.5-26.1%) than in the others tested samples. Antibiotics frequently tested were vancomycin, tetracycline, ciprofloxacin, and erythromycin, with resistance percentages of 50%, 59%, 79%, and 94%, respectively. These results reinforce the need to plan interventions to reduce antimicrobials in food-producing animals.

O uso de antimicrobianos em animais é mais frequente quando comparado aos humanos, e isso pode influenciar no desenvolvimento da resistência microbiana. O presente estudo teve como objetivo realizar uma revisão sistemática cujo desfecho de interesse foi a prevalência de E. faecium resistente a antimicrobianos na bovinocultura comercial. Foram incluídos 18 estudos, realizados principalmente em países europeus (n=9), em ambientes de produção (n=11) e destinados ao varejo (n=7). O principal material utilizado na detecção do microrganismo foi o leite. A prevalência de E. faecium resistente em bovinos foi de 4,3% (IC 95% -2,8-5,0%), mas a prevalência na Ásia foi maior [25,4% (IC 95%=20,5-30,6%)]. Houve maior prevalência em amostras do varejo (13,7%; IC 95%=11,5-16,1%) e coletadas principalmente de superfícies de equipamentos (12,5%; IC 95%-5,5-26,1%). Os antibióticos frequentemente testados foram vancomicina, tetraciclina, ciprofloxacino, e eritromicina, com percentuais de resistência de 50%, 59%, 79%, e 94%, respectivamente. Estes resultados reforçam a necessidade de intervenções planejadas para reduzir a utilização de antimicrobianos nos animais criados para produção de alimentos.

Molecular and serological diagnosis for Leptospira spp. in biological samples of cattle collected during the slaughter line / Diagnóstico molecular e sorológico para Leptospira spp. em amostras biológicas de bovinos coletadas durante a linha de abate / Diagnóstico molecular y serológico para Leptospira spp. en muestras biológicas de bovinos recogidas durante la línea de sacrificio

A leptospirose é considerada uma zoonose bacteriana de importância para a saúde pública. É comum em áreas tropicais, especialmente em países em desenvolvimento com escassos recursos de saúde e saneamento. Este estudo avaliou a presença de Leptospira spp. em bovinos abatidos em frigorífico da região Centro-Oeste de São Paulo, Brasil, e identificou animais positivos tanto por sorologia quanto em análise molecular. Amostras biológicas de sangue, fígado e rins de 150 bovinos foram investigadas pela técnica de Soroaglutinação Microscópica (SAM) e Reação em Cadeia da Polimerase convencional (cPCR). Os resultados sorológicos mostraram que dos 150 animais, 71 (47,3%) foram reagentes. Os resultados moleculares mostraram a presença de Leptospira spp. nos rins de 21 animais (14%), no fígado de 5 animais (3,3%), no fígado e rins em 2 animais (1,3%) e no sangue em 1 animal (0,7%). Esses resultados indicam um alerta sobre a saúde dos bovinos de corte devido à possibilidade desses animais serem fonte de infecção e a importância da característica ocupacional desta doença. Verificou-se também a importância de complementar as técnicas sorológicas e moleculares.

Leptospirosis is considered a bacterial zoonosis of public health importance. It is common in tropical areas, especially in developing countries with scarce health and sanitation resources. This study evaluated the presence of Leptospira spp. in slaughtered bovine in a slaughterhouse in the Midwest region of São Paulo, Brazil, as well as identified positive animals both in serology and by molecular analysis. Biological samples of blood, liver and kidneys from 150 cattle were investigated by the technique of Microscopic Agglutination Test (MAT) and conventional Polymerase Chain Reaction (cPCR). The serological results showed that of the 150 animals, 71 (47.3%) were reactive. The molecular results showed the presence of Leptospira spp. in kidneys of 21 (14%) animals, in liver of five (3.3%) animals, in liver and kidneys in two animals (1.3%) and in blood, in one (0.7%) animal. These results indicate a warning about the health of beef cattle due to the possibility of these animals being the source of infection and the importance of the occupational characteristic of this disease. It was also verified the importance of complementing serological and molecular techniques.

La leptospirosis es considerada una zoonosis bacteriana de importancia en salud pública. Es común en áreas tropicales, especialmente en países en desarrollo con escasos recursos de salud y saneamiento. Este estudio evaluó la presencia de Leptospira spp. en bovinos sacrificados en un matadero de región Centro-Oeste de São Paulo, Brasil, así como animales positivos identificados tanto en serología como por análisis molecular. Se investigaron muestras biológicas de sangre, hígado y riñones de 150 bovinos mediante la técnica de Aglutinación Microscópica (MAT) y Reacción en Cadena de la Polimerasa convencional (cPCR). Los resultados serológicos mostraron que de los 150 animales, 71 (47,3%) fueron reactivos. Los resultados moleculares mostraron la presencia de Leptospira spp. en riñones de 21 (14%) animales, en hígado de cinco (3,3%) animales, en hígado y riñones en dos animales (1,3%) y en sangre, en un (0,7%) animal. Estos resultados indican una alerta sobre la salud de los bovinos de carne debido a la posibilidad de que estos animales sean fuente de infección y la importancia de la característica ocupacional de esta enfermedad. También se verificó la importancia de complementar las técnicas serológicas y moleculares.

Babesia bovis in large ruminants in Pakistan - molecular detection and haemato-biochemical alterations

Background: Babesiosis is endemic in Pakistan and is one of the most important bovine diseases that causes huge economic losses and high mortality in young animals. A hematobiochemical study was conducted to unveil the difference between diseased and healthy animals in selected districts i.e., Faisalabad (31° 25' 7.3740'' N and 73° 4' 44.7924'' E), Toba Tek Singh (30° 58' 9.7392'' N and 72° 27' 40.7484'' E) and Jhang (31° 16' 40.9656'' N and 72° 18' 42.3360'' E) of Punjab, Pakistan. Materials, Methods & Results: A total of 518 (Cattle = 360, Buffalo = 158) blood samples were collected. The samples were analyzed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) targeting apocytochrome b-gene (Babesia bovis-gene) (CYTb) followed by haemato-biochemical analysis. Chi-square test for univariate analysis was used to analyze the data. In summer the PCR-based prevalence was 29.4 (53/180) and 24.05% (19/79) in cows and buffaloes, respectively. On the other hand, in winter results showed that 12.7 (23/180), 13.92 % (11/79) samples positive for Babesia genus from cows and buffaloes, respectively. The positive samples were further investigated for hematological and biochemical analysis. The results revealed that, the mean value of hematological parameters like RBCs, Hb, PCV, MCV and MCHC was significantly (P < 0.05) decreased in infected animals (cows and buffaloes) as compared to the non-infected ones. While the biochemical parameters like Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), cholesterol and Lactate dehydrogenase were significantly (P < 0.05) increased in infected animals as compared to healthy animals. This study is the first molecular and hematobiochemical evidence of Babesia bovis in dairy herds of Punjab province, Pakistan. Discussion: Bovine babesiosis is one of the important tick-borne diseases (TBD) affecting dairy industry. In bovines, among 3 Babesia species that cause the disease B. bovis is more pathogenic with high mortality and morbidity. Pakistan is situated in tropical and sub-tropical region where the humidity is high in some part of countries. This high humidity mostly favors the reproduction of the ticks thus higher prevalence of TBDs in this region. Initially the babesiosis was diagnosed by light microscopy using thin blood smear stained with Giemsa stain. Many studies verified that PCR is a more specific and sensitive tool than conventional techniques for the detection of carrier / asymptomatic ruminants. The haemato-biochemical profile is another valuable footprint to track the disease. Keeping in view the above-mentioned fact the present project has been planned to evaluate the haemato-biochemical alteration between health and Babesia infected cattle along with the molecular detection of Babesia species involved in bovine babesiosis. The mean values of haematobiochemical parameters in clinically ill and healthy animals revealed that the mean values of hematological parameters like RBCs, Hb, PCV, and HCT were significantly decreased in diseased animals as compared to the healthy ones. All these might be due the fact that the parasite is intra-erythrocytic in nature and destruction of red blood cells results in significant (P < 0.05) decrease level of all the hematological parameters. The mean value of ALT in babesiosis infected cattle was significantly higher as compared to healthy cattle. The mean values of AST and LDH in babesiosis infected cows was significantly higher as compared to that in healthy cows. The elevation in liver enzymes in babesiosis may be due to the hepatic damage and lesions induced by the parasite during its multiplication in the blood followed by disturbed liver function. These enzymes are present in high concentrations in the muscles and liver. High level of these enzymes in the blood is indicator of organ necrosis or damage.

Leptospira spp. in Naturally Infected Dairy Cow from a Brazilian Border Region.

Leptospirosis is an important infectious disease, which can generate large economic losses, especially in the dairy herd. The pathogen that causes this disease may have its entry in Brazilian herds facilitated by the existence of a large extension of land borders. Therefore, the objective of this work was to investigate the presence of DNA and antibodies against Leptospira spp. in samples of vaginal mucus and serum from naturally infected bovine females from small rural dairy farms in a border region. Blood and vaginal mucus samples were collected from 70 Holstein cows, from small rural dairy farms between October 2017 and June 2018. The inclusion criteria for dairy cattle of any breed were aged over 2 years, not vaccinated against leptospirosis, and presenting a history of any reproductive problem such as abortion, stillbirth, repetition of heat, absence of heat, and lack of conception. Blood was collected by puncturing the coccygeal vein; for the collection of vaginal mucus, it was necessary to use a tampon with an applicator. For the detection of anti-Leptospira spp. antibodies, the sera were submitted to microscopic agglutination test (MAT) and, for DNA detection, the vaginal mucus was submitted to the PCR technique. Among the 70 cows, 42.86% had reagents in MAT and the most likely serovar was Wolffi (43.47%). In 74.28% of the vaginal mucus samples, it was possible to amplify the Leptospira spp. DNA. The results of this work show the presence of Leptospira spp. antibodies and DNA in samples of serum and vaginal mucus from naturally infected bovine females from small rural dairy farms in a border region (Brazil × Paraguay). These results demonstrate the importance of considering bovine females as potential vaginal carriers of Leptospira spp. Thus, it highlights the importance of further studies to better understanding of this issue, in addition to carrying out molecular and serological tests, to monitor the infection and further characterize epidemiological studies of leptospirosis in herds from regions that face this international frontier challenge.

Residues of veterinary drugs and heavy metals in bovine meat from Urabá (Antioquia, Colombia), a promising step forward towards international commercialization.

Veterinary drugs are used for disease control in bovines Their presence at acceptable levels is a cause of concern for consumers and control agencies, as well as being a limitation for accessing international markets. The objective of this research was to evaluate the presence of residues of veterinary drugs and heavy metals in meat cuts from the Urabá region in Colombia. From a total of 80 samples of meat cuts from the loin and neck, we determined the presence of 29 veterinary drug residues and of cadmium and lead. The drug residues were quantified by liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry. Heavy metals were measured by electrothermal atomic absorption. As a result, all evaluated samples complied with Colombian and European regulations for drug residues and heavy metals. These results demonstrate good veterinary practices used for bovines raised in this part of Colombia, and they represent an export opportunity and an opening for new markets that can be enhanced by the implementation of a meat quality seal from this region.

Isolation of Nontuberculous Mycobacteria from Bovine Raw Lungs Bought in Butchers' Shops.

Nontuberculous Mycobacteria (NTM) can cause opportunistic disease in animals and humans, causing mycobacteriosis. In this study, bovine lungs were collected from butchers' shops and slaughterhouses after food official's inspection from the metropolitan area of Buenos Aires. All samples were cultured and then identified by molecular methods. Twelve isolates of NTM were identified being the most prevalent Mycolicibacterium insubricum. This demonstrates that viable Mycobacteria can pass food inspection and contaminate surfaces and food, making manipulation of raw organs and feeding of animals with raw lungs a potential source of infection for pets and owners.

Entomopathogenic Fungi for Tick Control in Cattle Livestock From Mexico.

Ticks are one of the main economic threats to the cattle industry worldwide affecting productivity, health and welfare. The need for alternative methods to control tick populations is prompted by the high prevalence of multiresistant tick strains to the main chemical acaricides and their ecological consequences. Biological control using entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) is one of the most promising alternative options. The objective of this paper is to review the use of EPF as an alternative control method against cattle ticks in Mexico. Metarhizium anisopliae sensu lato (s.l.) and Beauveria bassiana s.l. are the most studied EPF for the biological control of ticks in the laboratory and in the field, mainly against Rhipicephalus microplus; however, evaluations against other important cattle ticks such as Amblyomma mixtum and R. annulatus, are needed. A transdisciplinary approach is required to incorporate different types of tools, such as genomics, transcriptomics and proteomics in order to better understand the pathogenicity/virulence mechanism in EPF against ticks. Laboratory tests have demonstrated the EPF efficacy to control susceptible and resistant/multiresistant tick populations; whereas, field tests have shown satisfactory control efficiency of M. anisopliae s.l. against different stages of R. microplus when applied both on pasture and on cattle. Epidemiological aspects of ticks and environmental factors are considered as components that influence the acaricidal behavior of the EPF. Finally, considering all these aspects, some recommendations are proposed for the use of EPF in integrated control schemes for livestock ticks.

Ultrasound diagnosis of reticular diaphragmatic hernia in bovines / Diagnóstico ultrassonográfico da hérnia reticular diafragmática em bovinos

A reticular diaphragmatic hernia is a congenital or acquired alteration resulting from protrusion of the reticulum into the thoracic cavity. In ruminants, lesions to the diaphragmatic muscle, due to penetration of sharp metallic objects, is the most common cause of this disease. Therefore, given the low number of reports on this disease in the bovine species, the current study aims to describe the clinical, laboratory, and anatomopathological findings, with special emphasis on the ultrasound diagnosis of five cattle with reticular diaphragmatic hernia. The laboratory data were analyzed using mean and standard deviation, and clinical, ultrasound, and pathological findings were evaluated using descriptive statistics. Clinically the animals exhibited varying degrees of dehydration, abdominal distension, tympany, and alterations in ruminal motility, in addition to cardiorespiratory alterations such as murmur, dyspnea, and muffling of lung sounds. The laboratory examination showed neutrophilic leukocytosis and hyperfibrinogenemia. The ultrasonographic images demonstrated reticulum inside the thoracic cavity adjacent to the lung and heart, although no reticular motility was observed. The pathological lesions confirmed the findings of the ultrasound exams. Thus, the current study demonstrated that ultrasonography was efficient in diagnosing reticular diaphragmatic hernia in the bovine species.(AU)

A hérnia reticular diafragmática é uma alteração congênita ou adquirida resultante da protrusão do retículo para o interior da cavidade torácica. Em ruminantes, lesões no músculo diafragmático devido a penetração de objetos metálico pontiagudos constitui a causa mais comum dessa enfermidade. Portanto, diante dos poucos relatos a cerca dessa enfermidade nos animais da espécie bovina, este estudo tem como objetivo descrever os achados clínicos, laboratoriais, anatomopatológicos e dar ênfase especial no diagnóstico ultrassonográfico de cinco bovinos acometidos com hérnia reticular diafragmática. Os dados laboratoriais foram analisados utilizando-se media e desvio padrão e os achados dos exames clínico, ultrassonográfico e anatomopatológicos foram avaliados através de estatística descritiva. Clinicamente os animais exibiam desidratação em variados graus, distensão abdominal, timpania e alterações na motilidade ruminal. Além de alterações cardiorrespiratórias como sopro, dispneia e abafamento dos sons pulmonares. O exame laboratorial revelou leucocitose por neutrofilia e hiperfibrinogenemia. As imagens ultrassonográficas revelaram retículo no interior da cavidade torácica adjacente ao pulmão e coração, porém nenhuma motilidade reticular foi observada. As lesões anatomopatológicas confirmaram os achados dos exames ultrassonográficos. Dessa maneira, este trabalho demonstrou que a ultrassonografia foi eficiente no diagnóstico da hérnia reticular diafragmática nos animais da espécie bovina.(AU)

Ultrasound diagnosis of reticular diaphragmatic hernia in bovines

ABSTRACT: A reticular diaphragmatic hernia is a congenital or acquired alteration resulting from protrusion of the reticulum into the thoracic cavity. In ruminants, lesions to the diaphragmatic muscle, due to penetration of sharp metallic objects, is the most common cause of this disease. Therefore, given the low number of reports on this disease in the bovine species, the current study aims to describe the clinical, laboratory, and anatomopathological findings, with special emphasis on the ultrasound diagnosis of five cattle with reticular diaphragmatic hernia. The laboratory data were analyzed using mean and standard deviation, and clinical, ultrasound, and pathological findings were evaluated using descriptive statistics. Clinically the animals exhibited varying degrees of dehydration, abdominal distension, tympany, and alterations in ruminal motility, in addition to cardiorespiratory alterations such as murmur, dyspnea, and muffling of lung sounds. The laboratory examination showed neutrophilic leukocytosis and hyperfibrinogenemia. The ultrasonographic images demonstrated reticulum inside the thoracic cavity adjacent to the lung and heart, although no reticular motility was observed. The pathological lesions confirmed the findings of the ultrasound exams. Thus, the current study demonstrated that ultrasonography was efficient in diagnosing reticular diaphragmatic hernia in the bovine species.

RESUMO: A hérnia reticular diafragmática é uma alteração congênita ou adquirida resultante da protrusão do retículo para o interior da cavidade torácica. Em ruminantes, lesões no músculo diafragmático devido a penetração de objetos metálico pontiagudos constitui a causa mais comum dessa enfermidade. Portanto, diante dos poucos relatos a cerca dessa enfermidade nos animais da espécie bovina, este estudo tem como objetivo descrever os achados clínicos, laboratoriais, anatomopatológicos e dar ênfase especial no diagnóstico ultrassonográfico de cinco bovinos acometidos com hérnia reticular diafragmática. Os dados laboratoriais foram analisados utilizando-se media e desvio padrão e os achados dos exames clínico, ultrassonográfico e anatomopatológicos foram avaliados através de estatística descritiva. Clinicamente os animais exibiam desidratação em variados graus, distensão abdominal, timpania e alterações na motilidade ruminal. Além de alterações cardiorrespiratórias como sopro, dispneia e abafamento dos sons pulmonares. O exame laboratorial revelou leucocitose por neutrofilia e hiperfibrinogenemia. As imagens ultrassonográficas revelaram retículo no interior da cavidade torácica adjacente ao pulmão e coração, porém nenhuma motilidade reticular foi observada. As lesões anatomopatológicas confirmaram os achados dos exames ultrassonográficos. Dessa maneira, este trabalho demonstrou que a ultrassonografia foi eficiente no diagnóstico da hérnia reticular diafragmática nos animais da espécie bovina.

Ultrasound diagnosis of reticular diaphragmatic hernia in bovines / Diagnóstico ultrassonográfico da hérnia reticular diafragmática em bovinos

A reticular diaphragmatic hernia is a congenital or acquired alteration resulting from protrusion of the reticulum into the thoracic cavity. In ruminants, lesions to the diaphragmatic muscle, due to penetration of sharp metallic objects, is the most common cause of this disease. Therefore, given the low number of reports on this disease in the bovine species, the current study aims to describe the clinical, laboratory, and anatomopathological findings, with special emphasis on the ultrasound diagnosis of five cattle with reticular diaphragmatic hernia. The laboratory data were analyzed using mean and standard deviation, and clinical, ultrasound, and pathological findings were evaluated using descriptive statistics. Clinically the animals exhibited varying degrees of dehydration, abdominal distension, tympany, and alterations in ruminal motility, in addition to cardiorespiratory alterations such as murmur, dyspnea, and muffling of lung sounds. The laboratory examination showed neutrophilic leukocytosis and hyperfibrinogenemia. The ultrasonographic images demonstrated reticulum inside the thoracic cavity adjacent to the lung and heart, although no reticular motility was observed. The pathological lesions confirmed the findings of the ultrasound exams. Thus, the current study demonstrated that ultrasonography was efficient in diagnosing reticular diaphragmatic hernia in the bovine species.(AU)

A hérnia reticular diafragmática é uma alteração congênita ou adquirida resultante da protrusão do retículo para o interior da cavidade torácica. Em ruminantes, lesões no músculo diafragmático devido a penetração de objetos metálico pontiagudos constitui a causa mais comum dessa enfermidade. Portanto, diante dos poucos relatos a cerca dessa enfermidade nos animais da espécie bovina, este estudo tem como objetivo descrever os achados clínicos, laboratoriais, anatomopatológicos e dar ênfase especial no diagnóstico ultrassonográfico de cinco bovinos acometidos com hérnia reticular diafragmática. Os dados laboratoriais foram analisados utilizando-se media e desvio padrão e os achados dos exames clínico, ultrassonográfico e anatomopatológicos foram avaliados através de estatística descritiva. Clinicamente os animais exibiam desidratação em variados graus, distensão abdominal, timpania e alterações na motilidade ruminal. Além de alterações cardiorrespiratórias como sopro, dispneia e abafamento dos sons pulmonares. O exame laboratorial revelou leucocitose por neutrofilia e hiperfibrinogenemia. As imagens ultrassonográficas revelaram retículo no interior da cavidade torácica adjacente ao pulmão e coração, porém nenhuma motilidade reticular foi observada. As lesões anatomopatológicas confirmaram os achados dos exames ultrassonográficos. Dessa maneira, este trabalho demonstrou que a ultrassonografia foi eficiente no diagnóstico da hérnia reticular diafragmática nos animais da espécie bovina.(AU)