ABSTRACT Coccidiosis is a major enteric disease in poultry production, particularly under mixed infections involving multiple Eimeria species. This study evaluated the effects of a moderate mixed Eimeria spp. challenge on growth performance, hematological profile, and intestinal integrity in broiler chickens. A total of 288 broilers were allocated to challenged or unchallenged groups. At 14 days of age, challenged birds were orally inoculated with Eimeria tenella (3.5 × 103 oocysts/bird), Eimeria acervulina (7.0 × 104 oocysts/bird), and Eimeria maxima (1.0 × 105 oocysts/bird). Performance was evaluated until 42 days of age, and samples were collected at 7 and 14 days post-challenge. Challenged birds showed reduced body weight gain, feed intake, and feed efficiency during the first week post-infection, along with increased mortality, higher oocyst shedding, and more severe intestinal lesions. Although oocyst excretion and lesion severity decreased by 14 days post-challenge, total intestinal health index scores remained elevated. Hematocrit decreased at 7 days post-challenge, while leukocyte count and heterophil-tolymphocyte ratio increased at 14 days post-challenge. These results indicate that mixed Eimeria infection compromises both intestinal integrity and systemic physiological responses, and that intestinal morphological recovery does not necessarily reflect complete systemic restoration.
ABSTRACT This preliminary study evaluated the potential of coatings formulated with Amazonian fruit residues (açaí or camucamu), combined with different plasticizers (glycerol, sorbitol, or propylene glycol at 2% w/v), to preserve internal egg quality during 21 days of storage at ambient temperature (24 ºC). Egg quality was assessed based on weight loss, Haugh unit (HU), and albumen pH in uncoated eggs (control) and eggs coated with formulations containing different concentrations of fruit residues. Weight loss remained low, and no significant differences were observed among treatments. HU values also did not differ significantly; however, some camu-camu–based coatings showed numerically higher values, suggesting a possible tendency toward improved preservation of internal egg quality under the conditions of this study. Albumen pH remained within the expected range throughout storage. Overall, the results provide preliminary evidence that coatings based on Amazonian fruit residues may contribute to the preservation of egg internal quality during storage. In addition to their technological potential, these formulations represent a sustainable alternative for the valorization of agro-industrial by-products from the Amazon region.
ABSTRACT This study aimed to evaluate the quality of organic milk by analyzing composition parameters (fat, protein, and lactose percentages), bulk tank somatic cell count (BTSCC), and total bacterial count (TBC) from 2016 to 2019, and to monitor subclinical mastitis by measuring individual SCC in lactating cows on an organic dairy farm. Milk composition analysis revealed that fat percentages ranged from 3.20% to 3.80%, protein varied between 3.10% and 3.40%, and lactose levels ranged from 4.30% to 4.90%. BTSCC values ranged from 224,000 to 525,000 SC/mL, while TBC ranged from 509,000 CFU/mL (in one sample) to values under 110,000 CFU/mL in others. Individual SCC values ranged from 179,000 to 519,000 SC/mL. The percentage of healthy cows varied from 70% (January 2017) to 27.5% (March 2018), while cows with chronic intramammary infections ranged from 14% (July 2017) to 31% (November 2017). Effective mastitis control in organic systems requires integrating SCC data with preventive strategies. This approach enhances milk quality, animal welfare, and farm sustainability, addressing the growing demands of the organic dairy market.
ABSTRACT Inadequate practices can reduce the nutritional value of corn silage. This study evaluated the effects of delayed ensiling, silage density, and storage time on fermentation loss, in vitro starch digestibility (ivSD), and aerobic stability. Forage was ensiled immediately (0 h, IE) or after 24 h (DE), at two densities (514, LD; 605, HD kg/m3), and stored for 30 or 120 d. The DE of corn forage increased NDF by 5.6% (P = 0.011) and reduced in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD) by 9.5% (P < 0.001). After silo opening, DE-LD stored for 120 d showed the greatest dry matter (DM) loss (95 g/kg), whereas IE-HD and DE-LD stored for 30 d had the lowest (< 25 g/kg; P = 0.016). The interaction between DE and storage showed that DE increased aerobic stability (P = 0.004), especially after 120 d (133 h). The interaction between DE and silage density showed that HD silages had higher starch content (P = 0.002), while the interaction among all factors showed that IE-HD stored for 120 d had the highest ivSD (916 g/kg starch), and DE-LD stored for 30 d, the lowest ivSD (819 g/kg starch). Good practices reduce DM losses and improve ivSD, while prolonged storage enhances aerobic stability.
ABSTRACT This study evaluated the effects of phosphorus sources and application rates on structural characteristics and forage production of Mulato II grass. The experimental design used was completely randomized, in a 2x4 factorial scheme. The treatments consisted of two phosphorus sources: single superphosphate (SSP - 18% P2O5) and reactive natural phosphate (RNP - 29% P2O5), and four application doses: 0, 50, 100, and 150 kg of P2O5 ha-1. Phosphorus dose and source significantly affected leaf area in Mulato II across all harvests. The phosphorus fertilization also influenced the dry matter production of leaves, stems, and the total. Effects of dose and source were noted in the three cuts, with SSP presenting the highest production for all three characteristics in the first and second cuts. In the third cut, the effect of source and dose was observed for leaf dry matter, with RNP at the dose of 100 kg of P2O5 ha-1 achieving the highest value. Dose and phosphorus source effects were also noted in phosphorus use efficiency, with SSP showing greater efficiency. Mulato II grass responds to phosphorus fertilization with SSP and RNP, with the best agronomic results obtained using single superphosphate at the dose of 100 kg of P2O5 ha-1.
ABSTRACT The shift toward alternative housing systems is driven by consumer concerns about health, sustainability, and animal welfare. In Brazil, few studies have evaluated the performance of laying hens in alternative systems under real commercial conditions. This study assessed the impact of housing systems on the productivity of laying hens using data from a commercial farm in southern Brazil that produces free-range and organic eggs. The objectives were: (I) to compare the productivity of hens from the same genetic strain (Novogen Brown) raised in free-range and organic systems, and (II) to compare the productivity of hens from different strains (Novogen Brown vs. Dekalb Brown) within the same free-range system. A descriptive analysis was conducted on egg production, feed intake, mortality, and the incidence of dirty, cracked, and Jumbo eggs at three hen ages (30, 60, and 90 weeks). Egg production was also compared to the expected performance for each genetic strain. Results showed that the housing system significantly affected hen productivity. Hens in alternative systems began laying later (20-26 weeks vs. 19-21 weeks). They showed higher mortality (up to 25% at 90 weeks), increased feed intake (up to 11.8% higher than the genetic guide), and greater body weight (up to + 142g compared to expected values). These findings highlight the need for more research under commercial conditions to support genetic and management strategies suited to alternative housing systems.
ABSTRACT Colonial cheese is a dairy product widely produced in southern Brazil using traditional methods, predominantly using raw milk in production, and is being marketed informally. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the physicochemical, in addition to the presence of Staphylococcus aureus, staphylococcal enterotoxins, and the antimicrobial susceptibility profiles of Colonial cheeses marketed at fairs in the municipality of Chapecó, state of Santa Catarina. Ten cheese samples were evaluated, analyzing the physicochemical properties (moisture, protein, and ash). Microbiological analyses followed ISO 6888-1:2021 for coagulase-positive staphylococci counts, species identification, enterotoxin detection, and antimicrobial susceptibility, using VIDAS® and VITEK® 2 equipment based on AOAC 2007.06-2007. All cheeses were within acceptable moisture, protein, and ash content. However, coagulase-positive staphylococci counts ranged from <1.0×102 to 1.0×104 CFU/g, with one sample exceeding the legal limit and deemed unfit for consumption. Staphylococcus aureus was identified in 74% of the isolates, although no staphylococcal enterotoxins were detected. Multidrug-resistant coagulase-positive staphylococci had high resistance rates to erythromycin (36.84%) and to kanamycin, ampicillin, and benzylpenicillin (26.32%). These findings highlight significant microbiological risks and reinforce the urgent need for strengthened hygienic practices during milk handling and cheese production, continuous antimicrobial resistance monitoring, and targeted training programs for artisanal producers to ensure food safety and protect public health.
ABSTRACT Piauí ranks among the states with the largest honey production in Brazil, with a growing number of beekeepers concentrated especially in the semi-arid region. Despite its socioeconomic relevance, concerns arise regarding the increased risk of accidents involving Africanized bees, particularly when considering the precarious medical care provided to victims of venomous animal accidents in inland cities. The objective was to analyze the relationship between honey production in the state and the spatial distribution of bee-related accidents, as well as to describe their epidemiological characteristics. The study is exploratory-retrospective, using data available from the IBGE Automatic Recovery System and the Piauí State Health Department, covering the period from 2014 to 2023. The variables analyzed regarding accident characteristics were age group, sex, occupation, sting location, clinical manifestation, and final case classification. A total of 5,984 bee-related accidents were recorded in 176 municipalities of Piauí, representing 10.4% of venomous animal accidents in the state, with 13 deaths and an average lethality rate of 0.22%. Although a strong correlation was observed between the occurrence of bee accidents and honey production (r=0.85), there was no higher incidence of accidents among the state's main production hubs, possibly due to greater professionalization of beekeeping in these municipalities. Accidents predominantly occurred in urban areas, involving adult men, which indicates the presence of established colonies or transient swarms in the urban environment. It is concluded that there is no relationship between beekeeping production and the occurrence of accidents in Piauí.
ABSTRACT The study aimed to conduct an epidemiological survey to determine the prevalence and risk factors associated with bovine alphaherpesvirus 1 (BoHV-1) infection in cattle from western Pernambuco State. Serum samples from 369 animals were analyzed, distributed across 19 rural properties in three municipalities: Afrânio, Araripina, and Petrolina. The participating cattle were unvaccinated against the virus, aged two years or older, and belonged to beef and/or dairy herds. Serological diagnosis was performed using the microplate serum neutralization test. Epidemiological questionnaires were applied on each property, gathering information about livestock production characteristics. Statistical analysis included a univariate approach followed by a mixed model with the herd as a random intercept to identify potential risk factors. The prevalence observed in herds and individual animals was 89.5% (17/19) and 43.1% (159/369), respectively. In the univariate analysis, contact with neighboring cattle showed an odds ratio (OR) of 4.42, emphasizing the importance of this variable in the disease’s epidemiology. The detection of seropositive animals in the study area highlights the need to establish control and prevention measures to safeguard the health status of herds in the region.
ABSTRACT The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of different levels of black sucupira oil (Bowdichia virgilioides Kunth) on nutrient intake, digestibility, rumen variables, and serum biochemistry. Four cannulated crossbred steers [body weight (BW) 450 ± 20 kg] were assigned to a 4 × 4 Latin square design with the treatments: (1) control (CON), without oil; (2) inclusion of 1.25 g oil seed (OS) kg-1 of dry matter (DM); (3) inclusion of 2.5 g OS kg-1 of DM; and (4) inclusion of 3.75 g OS kg-1 of DM. Results showed no significant effect (P > 0.05) of black sucupira oil seed on rumen pH and N-NH3 levels. However, the inclusion of 2.5 g OS in the diets significantly decreased (P ≤ 0.05) crude protein (CP) and DM digestibility. Differences were noted in the concentrations of isobutyric acid (0.67, 0.81, 0.71, 0.80 mmol L-1) and isovaleric acid (0.91, 1.14, 1.21, 1.11 mmol L-1), as well as total volatile fatty acids released in the rumen with OS inclusion. Sampling time significantly affected (P ≤ 0.05) rumen pH and N-NH3. Thus, it can be concluded that black sucupira seed oil decreases CP intake and digestibility, acting as a temporary nutritional modulator in beef cattle diets.
ABSTRACT Canine monocytic ehrlichiosis and canine thrombocytic anaplasmosis, caused by Ehrlichia canis and Anaplasma platys, are endemic diseases in Brazil. This study aimed to determine the occurrence of these pathogens in 224 dogs at a Veterinary Teaching Hospital in Piauí, northeastern Brazil. DNA samples were analyzed using PCR assays for E. canis and A. platys, followed by sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. Clinical data were collected from medical records. A total of 17.9% of the dogs (40/224) were positive for E. canis, 30.8% (69/224) for A. platys, and 16.5% (37/224) for both. Ticks were present in 50% of the dogs infected with E. canis, 59.4% with A. platys, and 62.2% with both bacteria. Common clinical and laboratory changes included lymphadenopathy, anemia, thrombocytopenia, hyperglobulinemia, and hypoalbuminemia. The partial 16S rDNA gene sequences of E. canis and A. platys from dogs in Piauí showed 99% to 100% and 99.74% identity to reference sequences from different regions of Brazil and other countries in GenBank, respectively. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the sequences were grouped into their respective clades. This study represents the first molecular survey and phylogenetic characterization of these bacteria in dogs in the semiarid region of Piauí.
ABSTRACT Equine infectious anemia (EIA) is a disease that affects members of the Equidae family. In Brazil, it is detected in all regions, and distribution is associated with environmental factors and socio-cultural aspects. The study aimed to describe and analyze the occurrence of EIA outbreaks between 2009 and 2019 in the western region of Rio Grande do Sul. Data from 125 official reports of focus (113) and suspected (12) cases were analyzed. The majority of cases (102) occurred between 2015 and 2019. July, August, and September accounted for 65% of the records, and the diagnosis was made as a requirement for transporting the animals. In all, 2071 animals were on the focus properties, and 242 horses were identified as positive. Of these, 237 were euthanized, and five vanished from the properties. Properties with up to 10 horses were the most affected (71.7%, 81/113), and these herds contained 41.1% of the positive animals (104/242). Properties located in the peri-urban region of the cities accounted for more than 60% of the cases. One outbreak was diagnosed in horses smuggled from Argentina. The results characterize the occurrence of EIA in the region and demonstrate the maintenance and spread of the virus's circulation among herds.
ABSTRACT Foodborne diseases (FBDs) constitute a significant health problem worldwide, and unhealthy food handling practices cause their transmission in the population. There is limited information on food safety knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) among veterinary students worldwide. This was the first study to address KAP on food safety among veterinary students in Brazil. Data from 226 students were collected through an online questionnaire that included four sections: demographic characteristics, knowledge, attitudes, and practices. High levels of food safety knowledge (17.77) and attitudes (16.82) were found; however, food safety practices (10.62) were average. The results showed that most students had satisfactory food safety knowledge (100%) and good food safety attitudes (99.12%). However, 56.64% of the students had good food safety practices. Gender and marital status influenced food safety attitudes, while age influenced all attributes. Both years of study and food safety training affected food safety knowledge and attitude. It was found that students with more years of study and those who had already taken food safety courses had higher mean scores for these attributes. Training should be emphasized to strengthen food safety practices among students.
ABSTRACT This literature review discusses advances in gestational ultrasound in bitches, focusing on the use of Doppler technology for maternal-fetal hemodynamic assessment. Ultrasound is an essential tool in veterinary obstetrics, enabling early pregnancy detection, monitoring of embryonic and fetal development, and predicting the due date. B-mode imaging allows for the visualization of fetuses and their structures but has limitations in vascular assessment. Therefore, the use of Doppler, especially Triplex Doppler (B-mode, color Doppler, and pulsed Doppler), is crucial for a detailed evaluation of maternal-fetal blood flow. Monitoring Doppler indices, such as the Resistive Index (RI) and Pulsatility Index (PI), is critical in detecting changes in umbilical and placental circulation, which can predict issues like intrauterine growth restriction and fetal distress. These findings aid in predicting delivery time and identifying fetuses at risk. The objective of this review is to highlight the importance of Doppler ultrasonography as a non-invasive and effective method to improve clinical decision-making and reproductive outcomes, reinforcing its relevance in current veterinary practice.
ABSTRACT This study aimed to evaluate the anesthetic induction and transportation of freshwater angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare) and tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum) (both Amazonian fish) juveniles using three basil essential oils (EO): Ocimum sanctum (EOOSE) (Eugenol 58.94%), Ocimum canum (EOOCL) (Linalool 68.64%), and Ocimum basilicum (EOOBM) (Methyl chavicol 68.67%). The concentrations used were: 0 (control), 10, 25, 50, 100, 200, 300, 400 (only for EOOCL and EOOBM), 600 and 800 (both only for EOOBM) µL L-1. In another experiment, concentrations of 0 (control), 10, and 20 µL L−1 were tested for simulated transport during 6 h. There was only sedation for the fish with the three EO tested in concentrations up to 25 µL L-1. In this order, for freshwater angelfish, anesthesia and recovery times of less than 3 and 10 min, respectively, were found from 200, 400, and 800 µL L-1 for EOOSE, EOOCL, and EOOBM. For tambaqui, following these same assumptions, the concentrations indicated for EOOSE, EOOCL, and EOOBM were 200, 300, and 400 µL L-1, respectively. It is concluded that for sedation and transport of fish, 10 and 20 µL L-1 can be used (regardless of the EO), and for rapid anesthesia, 200 µL L-1 of EOOSE is indicated.
ABSTRACT This study aimed to evaluate the effects of dietary supplementation with Bacillus thuringiensis var. israelensis (Bti) on hematological parameters, intestinal morphometry, and testicular growth in chickens. A total of 288 Cobb chicks, comprising both males and females, were included in the study and fed diets supplemented with Bti at a concentration of 1x108 CFU per gram of feed for 42 days. The experimental design consisted of four treatments, each with 12 replicates of six birds, as follows: T1: males without Bti; T2: females without Bti; T3: males with Bti; and T4: females with Bti. Bti supplementation significantly reduced crypt depth and increased the villus-to-crypt ratio (P<0.05). However, other variables, including hematological parameters and testicular growth, were not significantly affected. In conclusion, while Bti supplementation improved certain aspects of intestinal morphology, its effects on hematological parameters and testicular growth were minimal in this study.
ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of a phytogenic additive on nutrient intake, diet digestibility, nitrogen balance, and ruminal parameters of lambs. Four lambs with an average body weight of 27.6 ± 2.9 kg were distributed in a 4 × 4 Latin square design and fed a basal diet composed of 600 g DM/day of corn silage and 400 g DM/day of concentrate. The basal diet was supplemented with no additive 0.0, 2.0, 4.0, and 6.0 g/kg DM of pepper. The intake of DM, crude protein (CP), organic matter (OM), and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) in g/day decreased linearly (P < 0.05). No effects (P > 0.05) were observed for the apparent digestibility of DM, OM, NDF, and ether extract. There was a quadratic effect (P < 0.05) on the digestibility of CP and non-fibrous carbohydrate, with maximum digestibility estimated at 707.7 and 924.8 (g/kg DM) at levels of 2.55 and 0.27 g/kg DM of pepper, respectively. There was no effect (P > 0.05) on urinary nitrogen and retention nitrogen. Increasing levels of pepper did not alter (P > 0.05) the pH value and N-NH3 concentration of the ruminal fluid. However, there was an effect (P < 0.05) of time on the pH and N-NH3 value of the rumen. The inclusion of pepper in the diet of confined lambs negatively alters dry matter and NDF intake without impairing nutrient digestibility, nitrogen utilization, and other ruminal parameters.
ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to investigate the potential of lime essential oil as a substitute for synthetic preservatives in beef sausage, considering consumer demand for healthy meat products produced with natural ingredients. Lime peel essential oil (LEO) was obtained by hydrodistillation and subjected to an evaluation of antibacterial activity by the disc diffusion and microdilution method. Its chemical composition was determined by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. Three sausage formulations were developed in this study: the first without preservatives (LC), the second with synthetic preservatives (L1), and the third containing 0.5% lime essential oil (L2). Physicochemical and microbiological analyses indicated that all treatments followed current legislation, although the moisture content exceeded the maximum limit. The pH and color varied significantly during refrigerated and frozen storage, reaching stability after 20 days. lime essential oil, with D-limonene as the majority component, proved to be effective in inhibiting microbial growth at a concentration of 0.5%, preserving the physicochemical composition of the sausage. Furthermore, there is a tendency for the color to stabilize during frozen storage. Therefore, 0.5% lime essential oil is a viable and natural alternative for application in meat sausages, such as fresh sausage, and adds a different flavor and aroma to this product.
ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to explore methods for producing forage peanut (Arachis pintoi) cv. Belomonte seedlings and their introduction into an established pasture with Tamani grass. The experiment was conducted in two phases. In the first phase, seedlings were generated from stolons with three treatments: stolons produced in water; stolons produced in nutrient solution; and stolons produced with commercial substrate. The treatment with commercial substrate did not produce sufficient seedlings for the second phase of the experiment and was, therefore, discontinued. In the second phase, the seedlings were planted in an established pasture of BRS Tamani grass. The experiment was laid out in a completely randomized design with three treatments: peanut seedlings produced in water, peanut seedlings produced in nutrient solution, and raw stolon. The variables evaluated included seedling survival rate and the survival and development of the different types of rooted forage peanut seedlings at 30, 60, 90, and 120 days after planting. Stolon survival rate exceeded 70% for the treatments using pure water and nutrient solution. The average stolon length and the number of leaves per plant were greater for the treatment using the nutrient solution. At the end of the experiment, there was no significant difference in the number of live plants. Forage peanut seedlings can be produced using a nutrient solution for broadleaf plants or simply with water, indicating easy production. Pre-rooting the seedlings in a nutrient solution for broadleaf plants favors the growth of stolons and leaves.
ABSTRACT This study aimed to analyze the physical characteristics of eggs from free-range hens of the Sura variety. One hundred eggs underwent assessment of various physical parameters, namely, whole egg weight, equatorial diameter, egg height, shell color, presence of cracks via candling, air chamber height, yolk color, presence of flesh and blood spots, albumen width and length, yolk diameter, yolk weight, and shell weight. Additional analyses included determining the albumen weight (calculated by subtracting the weights of the shell and yolk from the total egg weight), percentages of egg components, shape index, and shell index. Statistical analyses were conducted using GLM SAS software (SAS Institute). The results revealed distinct physical traits; eggs from the Sura variety, regardless of size class (large or small), typically have a more rounded shape, light brown shells, and more orange yolks. These findings confirm that Sura variety eggs possess unique characteristics that could appeal to specific market niches, potentially promoting the production of these birds, supporting biodiversity, and aiding in the prevention of their extinction.
