ABSTRACT: This study presents an optimized mission planning strategy for agricultural unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) that integrates battery endurance constraints into the coverage path planning (CPP) problem. The primary objective was to minimize total mission time by optimizing the sweep direction (θ) and automatically segmenting the path into executable sorties (m) based on battery capacity. The methodology was validated through simulations and a real-world case study of a 7.02 ha sugarcane field using parameters from a DJI AGRAS T10 drone (swath width of 5 m and flight speed of 5 m/s). The proposed approach was compared against classical methods, specifically those of TORRES et al. (2016) and CHOSET & PIGNON (1998). Results indicated reductions of 2.65% and 8.2% in total mission time, respectively, achieved by reducing unproductive turns and optimizing battery usage. This efficiency gain directly extends the operational window for spraying, enabling larger areas to be treated under ideal weather conditions. The findings demonstrated that integrating operational endurance into offline planning improves the reliability and logistics of drone-based precision agriculture applications.
ABSTRACT: We report a case of a tick of the Rhipicephalus linnaei, an ectoparasite of medical and veterinary importance, parasitizing a strictly forest-dwelling bird in a conserved lowland forest. During a study of manakins (Pipridae), one larva of R. linnaei was collected from a Pseudopipra pipra, which was captured in an understory mist net located 1.3 km from the nearest forest edge. The tick’s identity was confirmed by molecular analysis (16S rDNA). This record of R. linnaei in a preserved forest area and parasitizing a wild bird species with forest habits differ from previous records of parasitism in birds. Although, this isolated record does not represent a stable relationship, probably being an accidental parasitism, systematic studies are needed to better understand the parasitism of birds by this tick and its presence in natural environments.
ABSTRACT: This study investigated the effects of combined application of compound fertilizer and biochar on potassium (K) absorption and utilization of winter wheat to reduce the use of compound fertilizer. On the basis of conventional K application of 675 kg ha-1 (F4), three biochar levels (B1, B2, and B3) and four compound fertilizer levels (F1, F2, F3, and F4) were set up to study the effects of their combined application for two consecutive years on soil total K and available K content, as well as plant K accumulation and utilization efficiency in winter wheat. This study investigated the effects of combined application of compound fertilizer and biochar on potassium (K) absorption and utilization of winter wheat to reduce the use of compound fertilizer. On the basis of conventional K application of 675 kg ha-1 (F4), three biochar levels (B1, B2, and B3) and four compound fertilizer levels (F1, F2, F3, and F4) were set up to study the effects of their combined application for two consecutive years on soil total K and available K content, as well as plant K accumulation and utilization efficiency in winter wheat in Hebei Eastern Region of China. The results showed that B3F4 and B3F2 respectively resulted in the highest soil total K content and available K content in two years among all treatments. Compared with B1F4 (control), B3F4 led to 5.18% and 8.76% increases in total K content, and B3F2 increased the available K content by 2.10% and 60.55% in 2022 and 2023, respectively. It also enhanced the K agronomic efficiency (KAE), K uptake efficiency (KUE), and K harvest index (KHI) by 81.97%, 269.65%, 3.08% in 2022, and 258.56%, 244.67% and 37.64% in 2023, respectively, relative to B1F4. It is recommended to combine 450 kg ha-1 compound fertilizer with 7500 kg ha-1 biochar to reduce fertilizer use and improve the fertilizer efficiency for winter wheat in Hebei Eastern Region of China, providing important reference for the cultivation of winter wheat in this area. The results showed that B3F4 and B3F2 respectively resulted in the highest soil total K content and available K content in two years among all treatments. Compared with B1F4 (control), B3F4 led to 5.18% and 8.76% increases in total K content, and B3F2 increased the available K content by 2.10% and 60.55% in 2022 and 2023, respectively. Co-application of compound fertilizer with biochar enhances K accumulation in winter wheat throughout all growth stages. It also enhanced the KAE, KUE, and KHI by 81.97%, 269.65%, 3.08% in 2022, and 258.56%, 244.67% and 37.64% in 2023, respectively, relative to B1F4. Compared with B1F4, B2F3 increased the yield of the two years by 2.77% and 10.61%, respectively. These results indicated that combined application of compound fertilizer and biochar could reduce the use of compound fertilizer, and at the same time increase the total and available K content in soil, thereby increasing the agronomic utilization and absorption efficiency of K as well as the K accumulation and harvest index of winter wheat. Based on our results, it is recommended to combine 450 kg ha-1 compound fertilizer with 7500 kg ha-1 biochar to reduce fertilizer use and improve the fertilizer efficiency for winter wheat in Hebei Eastern region of China, providing important reference for the cultivation of winter wheat in this area.
ABSTRACT: Leiomyomas are benign smooth muscle tumors that, within the pelvic canal, most frequently arise in the female genital or gastrointestinal systems, but are rarely reported as extraluminal intrapelvic masses in dogs. In this location, neoplasia usually leads to constipation and, seldom, to acquired megacolon. This report described a case of an 11-year-old intact male mixed-breed dog with an extraluminal, intrapelvic leiomyoma leading to a severe case of megacolon. Clinically, the dog presented progressive weight loss, anorexia, obstipation, and a markedly distended abdomen. Hematological and biochemical analyses revealed severe anemia, leukocytosis, hypoglycemia, and hypoalbuminemia. The ultrasonographic and radiographic findings were consistent with megacolon. The patient died after one day of hospitalization. Necropsy revealed a 9 x 4 x 2 cm, white, firm intrapelvic, extraintestinal mass compressing the rectum and severe colonic dilation. Histopathology revealed that the mass consisted of a neoplastic proliferation of spindle cells arranged in bundles with mild nuclear and cellular pleomorphism. Immunohistochemistry confirmed multifocal immunolabeling for vimentin, desmin, and smooth muscle actin, thereby establishing the diagnosis of leiomyoma. The megacolon was classified as acquired and secondary to outlet obstruction by the intrapelvic tumor. This case highlighted a rare presentation of extraintestinal intrapelvic leiomyoma in a dog, emphasising the importance of considering intrapelvic neoplasia as a differential diagnosis in patients with chronic constipation, progressive weight loss, and megacolon.
ABSTRACT: Neuroinflammatory diseases in cats can have various causes; however, comprehensive studies on these conditions are limited. This study described the causes and pathological aspects of 60 cases of inflammatory lesions in the central nervous system (CNS) of domestic cats based on a 10-year retrospective analysis of necropsies. Infectious diseases were identified in 47 of 60 cases (78.3%), including viral (28/60, 46.7%), fungal (9/60, 15%), bacterial (5/60, 8.3%) and parasitic (5/60, 8.3%) infections. The main aetiological agent was feline infectious peritonitis virus (27/60, 45%), followed by Cryptococcus sp. (9/60, 15%), Streptococcus sp. (4/60, 6.7%), Toxoplasma gondii (2/60, 3.3%), Gurltia paralysans (2/60, 3.3%), rabies virus (1/60, 1.6%) and Sarcocystis neurona (1/60, 1.6%). The most frequent histopathological lesions were pyogranulomatous and granulomatous meningoencephalitis. Our results highlighted the most common neuroinflammatory diseases affecting the feline CNS and underscore the importance of thorough diagnostic processes. Detailed pathological analysis and supplementary laboratory tests are crucial for the accurate diagnosis of these neurologic conditions.
ABSTRACT: Herbicides that inhibit the acetyl coenzyme-A carboxylase enzyme are used as an alternative for controlling imidazolinone-resistant weedy rice (Oryza sativa f. spontanea). Selective control can only be achieved in resistant cultivars, and environmental conditions can interfere with this selectivity. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of shading on quizalofop-p-ethyl (QPE) selectivity in resistant hybrid rice 132 PV. The field experiment was conducted in a randomized block design with four replications. Treatments consisted of 24-h shading periods relative to the timing of two QPE applications: before the first application; after the first application; before and after the first application; before the second application; after the second application; before and after the second application; before the first and second applications; after the first and second applications; normal light conditions; and an untreated control. The following variables were evaluated: chlorophyll index, phytotoxicity, plant canopy cover fraction, yield components, and grain yield. Shading before and after the second application resulted in the highest phytotoxicity symptoms at 21 days after application. The plant canopy cover fraction did not differ from the untreated control in any of the treatments. The chlorophyll index was higher 3 days after the second application in treatments with shading after as well as before and after that application. The yield components and grain yield were not affected. Shading, especially for prolonged periods during the second QPE application, has the potential to increase phytotoxicity symptoms in Provisia™ rice but does not interfere with yield components or the grain yield. These results contribute to understanding the light influence on QPE selectivity in Provisia™ rice and may help optimize application timing, especially in El Niño years with reduced solar radiation availability.
ABSTRACT: This study reported 15 laparoscopic nephrectomies in dogs infected withDioctophyme renale, performed across seven Brazilian veterinary centers. Among the 15 cases, 4 presented hematuria as the clinical sign. Surgical approaches included: exclusive right flank access (11 cases), combined umbilical-flank portal placement (3 cases), and midline access (1 case). Hemostasis was achieved with titanium clips in 13 cases, while two cases utilized vascular sealing (LigaSure™). All procedures successfully removed the parasitized kidneys. The analysis demonstrated that this technique;although, technically demanding, is feasible when performed by experienced teams, requiring careful patient positioning (using flank rolls), precise port placement, and appropriate instrumentation. The findings established laparoscopy as an effective treatment for dioctophymosis, combining the benefits of minimally invasive techniques with successful outcomes. We recommended its adoption by centers with advanced laparoscopic expertise, adhering to the described technical criteria.
ABSTRACT: Peach palm (Bactris gasipaes Kunth.) exhibits significant variability in fruit traits, which contributes to broad consumer preference for attributes such as flavor and color. Repeatability studies can support breeding programs by facilitating the selection of genotypes with desirable traits for the fruit market. This study estimated repeatability coefficients for bunch traits in peach palm genotypes selected for table use. Twenty-five plants from the Active Peach Palm Germplasm Bank (BAG Pupunha) in Tomé-Açu, Pará, Brazil, were evaluated across three consecutive bunches per plant. Nine traits were assessed: total bunch weight (TBW); number of fertile fruits (NFF); number of parthenocarpic fruits (NPF); number of rachillae per bunch (NRB); bunch rachis length (BRL); mean weight of ten fertile fruits (MW10FF); mean weight of ten parthenocarpic fruits (MW10PF); ripe fruit weight (RFW); and unripe fruit weight (UFW). Repeatability coefficients (r) were estimated using analysis of variance (ANOVA), principal component analysis (PCA) based on covariance (PCACOV) and correlation (PCACOR) matrices, and structural analysis (SA). Overall, the methods showed high agreement for coefficient magnitude, except for NFF, NPF, MW10FF, and MW10PF. The lowest numbers of measurements required were observed for NPF and WUF. The covariance-matrix-based approach showed the greatest efficiency. The traits TBW, NPF, WTFF, and WUF are recommended for genotype selection, and evaluating two to three bunches per genotype can achieve accuracies of up to 85% in peach palm genotypes selected for table use.
ABSTRACT: This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of machine learning (ML) models in classifying tropical forages based on their productive, structural, and morphogenic characteristics. Four ML models were utilized for this evaluation: Logistic Regression (REGL), Multilayer Perceptron (MLP), Decision Tree (REPTree), and Random Forest (RF). The findings revealed that the RF model outperformed the others in categorizing the six forages, yielding coefficients of 62.25% and 0.55% for CC and Kappa, respectively. Notably, the RF model demonstrated superior performance for both low and medium-growing forage plants, achieving 68.95% and 0.53% CC and Kappa for the low-growing group. However, its performance for medium-growing forage plants was marginally lower, registering values of 61.37% and 0.42% (CC and Kappa, respectively). In conclusion, the study provided evidence of the efficacy of machine learning techniques, particularly the RF model, in the classification of different-growing Panicum maximum forage plants. However, further research is needed in connection with the results obtained in this research, associating them with technological tools such as drones and advancing the identification of cultivars via remote sensing in the field.
ABSTRACT: The bush dog (Speothos venaticus) is an endangered species suffering from population decline in Brazil due to habitat loss, food scarcity, and diseases transmitted by domestic animals. The objective of this study was to understand the behavior of a captive bush dog, which could help the knowledge regarding its habits, and determine the appropriate environmental enrichment techniques for the species. The observations were recorded in an ethogram, which recorded stereotypical behavior (pacing). The animal remained inactive most of the time and did not show agitation in the presence of visitors. The pacing increased close to feeding time and was associated with vocalization. With the introduction of enrichments, there was a 49.46% decrease in the animal’s inactivity time and a 38.08% increase in its atypical behavior (pacing), in the first and last two weeks of enrichment application. Among the enrichments offered, the greatest interaction was with food enrichment and objects that the animal could transport to the water tank, such as a pumpkin and a PVC pipe. Hypotheses for the causes of pacing include the intense movement of keepers around the enclosure before feeding time and the lack of frequency of environmental enrichments. Therefore, to improve the quality of life of the species in captivity, the enrichments suggested in this study may be offered to this species, with benefits to their quality of life.
ABSTRACT: We reported a series of seven cases of pulmonary fasciolosis due to Fasciola hepatica in cattle, during routine slaughterhouse surveillance from Espírito Santo, southeastern Brazil. Between December 2021 and October 2023, seven cattle from the south Espírito Santo municipalities, presented single to multiple pulmonary nodules at the edges of the lungs. The nodules contained brown, viscous material, and a single adult/juvenile fluke was seen in one bovine, consistent with Fasciola hepatica. All seven cattle had concomitant hepatic fasciolosis. Histopathological analysis revealed granulomas with mixed inflammatory infiltrate of hemosiderophages, neutrophils, and eosinophils surrounded by a fibrous capsule. Two cases had intralesional trematode eggs; in one case, a section of an adult trematode was in the center of the granuloma. We hypothesized that the occurrence of erratic F. hepatica migration to bovine lungs may be more prone to happen in highly endemic areas.
ABSTRACT: Parascaris spp. is a common ascarid in foals and weanlings, historically attributed to Parascaris equorum, but recent findings suggest that Parascaris univalens may be the predominant species involved in these infections. Differentiating between these species requires chromosome counting, as P. univalens has one chromosome pair, whereas P. equorum has two. This study differentiated Parascaris spp. species in foals from the Zona da Mata region of Minas Gerais, Brazil, using a karyotyping technique adapted for eggs. Fecal samples were collected from 450 foals, and the Mini-FLOTAC technique was used for parasite detection. Positive samples were pooled, and eggs were recovered using flotation and centrifugation techniques. The eggs underwent a decortication process to remove the outer layers, facilitating chromosome visualization. To optimize chromosome analysis, colchicine was used to halt mitosis, and the eggs were stained with Giemsa and DAPI for microscopic examination. Only eggs from Stud farm 12 were suitable for karyotyping, revealing a single pair of chromosomes consistent with P. univalens, confirming the presence of this species in the region. This finding aligns with previous studies in Europe and North America, challenging the long-held belief that P. equorum is the predominant species. This study marked the first application of this karyotyping protocol for Parascaris spp. eggs in Brazil, providing a valuable epidemiological tool for species identification and aiding in the development of targeted control measures. The protocol’s adaptation and successful implementation emphasized its relevance in veterinary parasitology.
ABSTRACT: This study investigated the attitudes and practices of dairy farmers toward manure management (MM) in the Küçük Menderes Basin of Türkiye to develop sustainable manure management (SMM) strategies for reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. After designing an attitude scale, it was validated through factor analysis, and its reliability was assessed with Cronbach’s α. The scale was administered to 143 dairy farms. The farms were categorized into three groups: environmentalists, innovators, and resistors to innovation and environmental concerns. The family-type farms within the resistors to innovation and environmental concerns group were identified as the primary target group due to their low adoption of modern MM systems and high GHG emission potential. Based on environmental, economic, and social sustainability criteria, tailored SMM strategies were proposed. The recommendations included increasing the frequency of manure collection, building sealed storage facilities, applying modern utilization techniques (e.g., composting and biogas), and providing technical and financial support for the improvement of MM infrastructure. The study highlighted the importance of farmers’ attitudes in adopting GHG mitigation practices and emphasizes the need for integrated policies. The developed strategies contributed to national environmental goals and align with the European Union’s Green Deal, offering practical insights for sustainable livestock management and rural development policy design.
ABSTRACT: The present study was conducted to estimate the body weights of Alpine kids using somebody measurements with artificial neural network (ANN) and multiple linear regression (MLR) analysis. For this purpose, the birth weight of 97 kids in total and body measurements such as withers height, rump height, chest depth, chest girth and body length were taken. The model performance criteria used to compare the neural networks and regression analysis results for the goodness of fit are coefficient of determination (R2) and mean square error (MSE). In analyses using artificial neural networks, Levenberg-Marquardt (LM), Bayesian Regularization (BR), and Scaled Conjugate Gradient (SCG) algorithms were applied. The findings showed that the LM algorithm produced the best results and achieved the highest R² and lowest MSE values among the ANN training algorithms. The ANN model (R² = 0.9173; MSE = 0.0006) outperformed the MLR model (R² = 0.791; MSE = 0.101) in predicting the birth weight of Alpine kids.
ABSTRACT: This study compared the effect of two diets, one containing A1 β-casein (test) and the other A2 β-casein (control) in dogs, analyzing inflammatory markers and blood parameters for 30 days. Because A1 and A2 β-casein differ in their digestion products, particularly the release of β-casomorphin-7 from A1, which has been associated with gastrointestinal dysbiosis and inflammation, understanding their physiological effects in dogs is relevant for companion-animal nutrition. Twenty dogs were assigned to two diets, differing only in the β-casein variant, and inflammatory and hematological parameters were monitored throughout the 30-day period. It was possible to observe that the concentration of vitamin B12 was significantly higher (P < 0.05) in the control group, which may indicate an inverse relationship between the amount of B12 and the presence of inflammation. The group fed with A1 β-casein showed a higher eosinophil/lymphocyte ratio and monocyte/lymphocyte ratio (P < 0.05) compared to the control group, suggesting consequently greater dysbiosis, acidity and oxidative stress, with inflammation as a consequence in this group. Fibrinogen concentration was also higher (P < 0.05) in the group fed with A1 β-casein. The concentrations of C-Reactive Protein in the group that received A1 β-casein were higher (P < 0.05) than in the control group. Overall, these findings suggested that A1 β-casein may contribute to heightened inflammatory activity in dogs, whereas A2 β-casein may promote a more favorable inflammatory profile, directly impacting future studies on animal nutrition.
ABSTRACT: Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) is essential in veterinary hematology to prevent coagulation and ensure accuracy of hematological analyses. However, using outside recommended concentrations may alter hematological parameters. This study investigated the influence of different concentrations of EDTA K2 and K3 on erythrocyte parameters in canine blood. Blood samples from 20 healthy dogs were collected and allocated to groups containing varying anticoagulant concentrations. Evaluated erythrocyte parameters included red blood cell count, hemoglobin concentration, packed cell volume (PCV), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), and red blood cell distribution width (RDW). Increasing EDTA concentration resulted in reduced MCV and PCV, particularly in samples containing higher concentrations of EDTA K3. In addition, increased MCHC and decreased RDW-SD were observed at elevated EDTA concentrations. Red blood cell counts and hemoglobin concentration showed no significant changes. These findings indicated that adherence to recommended EDTA ratios is essential to avoid alterations in erythrocyte parameters, with concentrations up to twice the recommended level for EDTA K2 remaining acceptable.
ABSTRACT: The uniformity of the mechanical properties of equestrian surfaces influences equine biomechanics, however, its quantification requires a standardized equation to increase the precision of mathematical modeling. Thus, the objective was to develop a model for measuring the uniformity of equestrian surfaces (UNF). For this, four equestrian surfaces were analyzed for hardness, moisture, grip, depth, topography and corrective maintenance. To quantify uniformity, the UNF model was proposed using statistical modeling based on significant comparisons (P < 0.05), Hierarchical Cluster Grouping and Principal Component Analysis to measure uniformity, considering the relationship between mechanical properties. Surface III presented the lowest uniformity (38.03%) when compared to the others (I = 68.14%); II = 64.51%; IV = 72.01%), thus, the UNF model has the capacity to measure the uniformity of equestrian surfaces, identifying the properties responsible for the variation found on each surface.
ABSTRACT: This study characterized and analyzed sheep marketing at broadcast auctions in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Auctions conducted between 2021 and 2024 were evaluated. Animal-level characteristics included sex, category, breed, genetic background, production aptitude, and, for females, reproductive status. At the lot level, the number of animals, uniformity, selling time, and number of bids were assessed. Auction-related variables included the season of sale, payment terms, and sale values. The variables were also analyzed using principal component analysis (PCA). A total of 1,384 sheep lots were analyzed, comprising 11,383 animals. The strongest correlations were observed between elite sheep and the payment term offered by the seller (r = 0.66), and between animal production aptitude and lot uniformity (r = -0.83). With respect to lot sales, genetic content showed the highest positive correlation (r = 0.33) and was strongly associated with the number of bids (r = 0.72) Principal components 1 and 2 explained 36.81% of the variability in sheep marketing; the first component was mainly associated with animal- and auction-related variables, while the second was associated with animal characteristics such as production aptitude, sex, and lot breed uniformity, as well as the number of bids per lot. These results indicated a strong demand for animals carrying flock-improving genetics and highlighted both breed- and lot-level uniformity as key factors in sheep sales.
ABSTRACT: This study addresses the importance of weight prediction in sheep (Ovis aries) as a crucial tool for efficient herd management and genetic improvement. Sheep production, which plays a significant role in the economy, faces challenges in body weight monitoring due to limited access to adequate weighing resources. Linear body measurements, such as chest perimeter and withers height, represent effective alternatives for weight estimation, enabling more accurate management practices and enhanced genetic selection. This literature review is structured as follows: it begins with an introduction highlighting the relevance of sheep farming and the prediction of productive traits; subsequently, it discusses the importance of body weight recording and linear body measurements; next, it presents the main weight prediction tools based on regression models and machine learning approaches; thereafter, it addresses the methods used for genetic evaluation and the estimation of genetic parameters; and finally, it proposes the integration of phenotypic prediction and genetic evaluation within the context of meat sheep breeding programs. The research employed data from linear body measurements of sheep, applying different regression models to estimate body weight. The results indicated that the inclusion of multiple traits improved prediction accuracy, emphasizing the importance of integrated approaches to optimize productivity and sustainability in sheep production systems. The study concluded that the use of advanced weighing technologies and genetic evaluation methods has the potential to transform herd management, promoting substantial gains in productivity and animal welfare.
ABSTRACT: The increasing demand for food has driven the conversion of native areas into agricultural land, a transformation with significant implications for soil carbon (C) balance due to current cultivation systems. Developing and implementing cropping systems that promote C accumulation is crucial for maintaining agricultural sustainability. In this context, this study aimed to understand land management in the state of Piauí, located within the Brazilian Cerrado, investigating biological indicators of soil quality in a cultivation chrono sequence on an Oxisol, in order to support the development and implementation of cropping systems that promote carbon accumulation. The chrono sequence comprised four areas: one native area and three cultivated areas for 12, 18, and 24 years. The biological quality indicators included soil organic carbon (SOC), microbial biomass carbon (MBC), basal soil respiration (C-CO₂), microbial quotient (qMic), and metabolic quotient (qCO₂), as well as C stock and CO₂ sequestration across the 0.0-10, 10-20, 20-30, 30-40, and 40-50 cm soil layers. The results showed no significant differences among areas for MBC, qMic, and qCO₂, but the SOC stock, C-CO₂, and C stock were increased with longer cultivation periods. CO₂ sequestration rates were 0.96, -0.06, and 1.69 Mg ha-¹ year-¹ in the areas cultivated for 12, 18, and 24 years, respectively. Overall, the duration of cultivation enhanced microbial activity and C stock, contributing to CO₂ sequestration compared to the native area. Our findings evidenced that research focusing on region-specific management systems are essential to ensure the long-term agriculture sustainability, since each region has distinct environmental and climatic conditions that directly influence the outcomes of implemented agricultural practices.
