Official publication of the Faculty of Veterinary Sciences of the UNNE ISSN: 1668–4834; E-ISSN: 1669-6840
Revista Veterinaria (Rev. Vet.) maintains a commitment to the policies of Open Access to scientific information, as it considers that both scientific publications as well as research investigations funded by public resources should circulate freely without restrictions. Revista Veterinaria (Rev. Vet.) ratifies the Open Access model in which scientific publications are made freely available at no cost online.
Seroprevalence of equine infectious anemia in equines during cultural horseback riding events in Meta state (Colombia)
Equine infectious anemia (EIA) is a disease caused by a Lentivirus, and it represents a significant obstacle to the global equine industry. Its control relies on mandatory quarantine and euthanasia of seropositive horses. Active epidemiological surveillance is essential for effective EIA control. The objective of this study was to determine the seroprevalence of EIA in horses participating in cultural horseback riding events in the department of Meta, Colombia. A total of 92 blood samples were collected from horses participating in two events, held in the municipalities of Granada (n = 48) and Acacias (n = 44). Samples were analyzed using the agar gel immunodiffusion (AGID) test considered the gold standard and the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Diagnostic test results were analyzed using McNemar’s test and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves with JAMOVI statistical software. Seroprevalence detected by AGID was 6.5% (6/92), while ELISA indicated 16.3% (15/92), with higher seropositivity observed in Granada (8.8%) compared to Acacias (4.5%). The ELISA test, compared to AGID, had an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.620, sensitivity of 66.7%, and specificity of 87.2%. McNemar’s test showed a significant difference (p<0.05) between the two diagnostic methods. This study highlights that equines ><0.05) between the two diagnostic methods. This study highlights that equines testing positive for EIA should not participate in equestrian events outside their premises, in accordance with both national and international regulations. Furthermore, the findings suggest non-compliance with Colombian regulations by horse owners and event organizers, as only AGID-negative animals tested within the last six months should be allowed to participate.
Copyright (c) 2025 Sonia Ximena Maldonado Soto , Paula Juliana Moreno Carrillo, Karla Sirene Alfonso Mojica, Juan Sebastian Banoy Melo, Natalia Pedraza Castillo, Dumar Alexander Jaramillo Hernández https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Evaluation of anthelmintic resistance of small strongyles in horses to fenbendazole and ivermectin in northeast Corrientes (Argentina).
Gastrointestinal nematodes in horses pose a serious threat to equine health and production profitability. Periodic administration of anthelmintics is the most commonly used method to control infections caused by these nematodes. However, continuous and indiscriminate use, without considering the epidemiological aspects of the parasites and without prior diagnosis, promotes the emergence of anthelmintic resistance. The resistance of small strongyles in horses to anthelmintics has been well-documented for decades in various countries around the world, including Argentina. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of anthelmintic resistance to the active ingredients Fenbendazole and Ivermectin in small strongyles of horses in the Santo Tomé and Ituzaingó Departments, Corrientes (Argentina), using the fecal egg count reduction test (FECRT) following the new guidelines of the World Association for the Advancement of Veterinary Parasitology. The study was conducted during the years 2024 and 2025. Horses belonging to five owners were selected. To diagnose resistance, statistical analysis software available at http://www.fecrt.com was used. This software implements the fecal egg count reduction test by comparing pre- and post-treatment egg counts for each of the studied active ingredients. A total of eight trials were conducted; in four of them, resistance to fenbendazole was detected, with efficacy below 90%. In one of the ivermectin efficacy tests, although an insufficient reduction in egg count was observed, a second test was recommended before confirming resistance to this active ingredient.
Copyright (c) 2025 Sergio Ivan Jorge Lobayan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
High-salinity water as a cause of salt poisoning in livestock: two case studies in Northwestern Argentina
This study aims to describe two outbreaks of salt poisoning in cattle and buffalo associated with the consumption of high-salinity water in northwestern Argentina. In both cases, elevated salinity in drinking water was associated with high mortality rates. In Santiago del Estero, calves that drank from an old well with high salinity experienced a mortality rate of 38%. Similarly, in San Pedro de Jujuy, buffalo and bulls exposed to saline water sources showed mortality rates of 10.8% and 13% mortality rates, respectively. Clinical signs included dehydration, diarrhea, and marked neurological symptoms such as ataxia and seizures. Postmortem examination revealed severe dehydration and mild brain lesions characterized by spongiosis and pseudolaminar necrosis, along with generalized vascular congestion and reactive changes in the capillary walls. Biochemical analyses confirmed elevated sodium concentrations in both serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), supporting the diagnosis of salt intoxication. Water samples collected from the affected sites revealed total dissolved solids and salt concentrations significantly exceeding safe thresholds, underscoring the critical importance of water quality monitoring to prevent such toxic events in livestock.
Copyright (c) 2025 Agustín Avellaneda-Cáceres, Diego Martín Nicolas Medina-Vallejo , Laura S. Aguirre, Gabriela Viriginia Sandoval, Singh-Ruiz Jeremias Dan, Micheloud Francisco https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Variability in parasite–host interactions among different Mus musculus genotypes experimentally challenged with Trichinella spiralis
Parasite-host interaction is a complex relationship that determines the outcome of infection. Trichinella spiralis is a nematode that affects a wide range of animals and can transmit infection to humans. Studying its interaction with the host is essential for developing strategies to reduce the impact of this parasitosis. The aim of this study was to evaluate potential differences in parasite-host interaction in response to a Trichinella spiralis challenge among different host genotypes, consisting of four mouse lines selected by body weight and a control line derived from the CF1 strain (s, h, s’, h’, and t, respectively). Male mice from the lines were infected with a dose of 400 muscle larvae. The expulsion index at 15 days post-infection indicated that the t line was the most efficient, whereas the h line was the least efficient in this process, showing the highest number of adult worms in the intestine. In the chronic stage of infection, the number of encysted muscle larvae (relative parasitic load) was significantly higher in the light h line and lower in the t and h’ lines, indicating differences in the host-parasite interaction among the genotypes. Histopathological evaluation of the duodenum also revealed differences among the studied lines. The observed variability may result from the systematic process of phenotypic artificial selection for body weight, along with dispersive effects - such as the founder effect and genetic drift - associated with the low effective population size.
Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Distribution of lymneids and cercaric index of Fasciola hepatica in the Arequipa Region, Peru
Fasciolosis is a zoonotic disease caused by Fasciola hepatica, which is widely distributed in Peru and considered highly endemic in the Arequipa region. Despite this, records of lymnaeid snails in the area remain limited. This study aimed to identify lymnaeid vectors of F. hepatica and to determine their distribution across natural regions, along with their corresponding cercarial index (CI). Lymnaeid snails were manually collected from irrigation canals, wetlands, and other humid environments, identified by their small size and dextral coiling shell. A subset of 10–25 snails was immersed in water at 70°C for 30–40 seconds to facilitate soft tissue extraction. The soft bodies were then removed from the shells and preserved in 70% ethanol. Taxonomic identification was conducted at the Centre de Recherches insulaires et observatoire de L’environnement (CRIOBE), Université de Perpignan, France, based on morphological characteristics of the shell and soft body parts. Sampling locations were categorized according to natural regions: coast (≤2000 m.a.s.l.) and highlands (>2000 m.a.s.l.). Live lymnaeids were examined by compression under a compound microscope (40X and 100X magnification). The criterion for positivity was the presence of rediae and cercariae of F. hepatica. New distribution areas of lymnaeid snails were identified. On the coast, the species detected included Galba cubensis (primary vector) in the provinces of Caravelí, Camaná, Islay, and Arequipa; Pseudosuccinea columella (potential vector) in Caravelí; and G. schirazensis in Santa Rita de Siguas. In the highlands, G. truncatula was identified as the primary vector in the provinces of Caylloma, La Unión, Castilla, Condesuyos, and Arequipa. Cercarial indices were generally low, averaging 0.63% for the Arequipa region. In localities with positive vectors, the distribution was as follows: on the coast, G. cubensis in Vítor showed a CI of 2.13%; in the highlands, G. truncatula exhibited CI values of 1.20% in Huanca, 1.61% in Achoma, 2.63% in Maca, and 2.78% in Taurisma.
Presumptive hypersensitivity pneumonitis in dairy cattle: a case report
Hypersensitivity pneumonitis is a pathological condition caused by the continuous inhalation of various antigenic compounds, leading to an exacerbated immune response and subsequent lung injury. Although this condition has been reported in several animal species, it has not yet been documented in cattle in South America. This report describes a case that occurred in 2020 on a dairy farm operating under a dry-lot system with soil bedding, located in Buenos Aires province, Argentina. An increased frequency of respiratory cases was observed among lactating cows, occasionally resulting in death. Affected animals exhibited dyspnea, adynamia, orthopneic position, ptyalism, and normal rectal temperature. Postmortem examination of one affected cow revealed severe generalized pulmonary and mediastinal emphysema. Microscopically, mild to moderate thickening of the alveolar septa was observed, accompanied by increased infiltration of lymphocytes, macrophages, and neutrophils. The alveoli contained abundant multinucleated giant cells distributed multifocally, along with occasional macrophages and neutrophils, and multifocal areas of intra-alveolar edema. The interlobular septa were expanded due to lymphatic distension, edema, and a mild diffuse infiltration of macrophages and lymphocytes. Bacteriological cultures were negative. Although parainfluenza-3 virus was isolated from the lung tissue, immunohistochemistry (IHC) results were negative. The epidemiological context, pathological findings, and clinical signs were consistent with hypersensitivity pneumonitis, although its specific etiology could not be determined. Dairy production systems that utilize soil bedding may predispose animals to this condition, even though potential allergens were not assessed in this case. Nonetheless, this clinical and pathological presentation should be considered as a differential diagnosis for respiratory disease under similar production conditions.
Social characterization of swine producers in the departments of Capital and San Cosme, Corrientes province
Pig production in the Northwest of the Province of Corrientes functions as a form of economic backup, mainly associated with small-scale family farming systems. The objective of this study was to characterize pig producers in the departments of Capital and San Cosme through interviews conducted with farm owners. The survey was carried out between July 2018 and June 2019. Although 69 farms were initially considered for the study, only 30 producers were still actively engaged in the activity at the time of data collection. Various variables were analyzed, including location, age range, level of formalization, and educational background. A high degree of heterogeneity was observed; however, it was determined that pig farming is predominantly managed by men, with an average age of 49, indicating an aging population. Additionally, it was found that most producers engage in other income-generating activities, with only 25% exclusively dedicated to pig farming. This diversification highlights the complementary role that pig production plays in household economies, within a context of low formalization and limited access to technical or institutional support. These results can serve as a basis for future research focused on specific aspects of local pig production
Vairimorpha infections in endemic Moroccan honeybees: A cross-sectional study
Biodiversity and food security on Earth would be impossible without the contribution of animal and insect pollinators, with the honeybee (Apis mellifera) being the primary agent. However, the distribution and diversity of these insect populations, particularly native species, are increasingly threatened by various biotic and abiotic stressors, which contribute to Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD) in apiaries worldwide. A microsporidian fungus of the genus Vairimorpha (formerly Nosema)) that infects the insect gut causes the disease known as nosemosis, which is among the biotic factors potentially associated with CCD. In this study, we examined 206 samples from various apiaries in the Souss-Massa region of Morocco to assess the epidemiological status of this parasitosis in Moroccan honeybees. Spore detection and quantification of Vairimorpha spp. were performed using microscopy, while molecular techniques were employed to differentiate Vairimorpha apis from Vairimorpha ceranae. The microscopic analysis revealed a prevalence rate of 78.6%, a mean abundance of 7×105 spores/bee/apiary, and a mean infection intensity of 9×105 spores/bee/apiary. Molecular analysis indicated that V. ceranae is more prevalent than V. apis. Consequently, as observed in many other regions worldwide, V. ceranae has become invasive in native Moroccan honeybees populations, highlighting the need to consider this new ecological status in future control and conservation programs.
Metabolic syndrome in a canine patient: A case report
This study describes the clinical case of a 6-year-old intact female Beagle presented to a veterinary clinic with polyphagia and abdominal distension. The body condition score (BCS) was subjectively assessed using a 1–9 scale, yielding a score of 8/9. The mean arterial pressure was 130 mmHg (reference range: 80–120 mmHg Blood tests revealed elevated levels of total cholesterol (202 mg dL-1), triglycerides (516 mg dL-1), low-density lipoprotein (LDL = 150 mg dL-1), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP = 1447 IU L-1), along with a decreased level of high-density lipoprotein (HDL = 30 mg/dL). The calculated HOMA-IR index was 2.84, indicating insulin resistance. Abdominal ultrasonography revealed findings consistent with hepatic lipidosis and polycystic ovary syndrome. Based on the clinical and laboratory findings, a diagnosis of metabolic syndrome was established. As metabolic syndrome remains an area of ongoing research in veterinary medicine, this case report aims to contribute to a better understanding and enhanced management of this condition in canine patients.
Effect of low-volume supplementation on productive performance during heifer rearing in the humid Argentina subtropics
To evaluate the impact of different low-volume supplements (LVS), 30 heifers with an initial live weight of 248.6 kg were assigned to three treatment groups: SAL Teknamix (a mineral supplement), BIOSAL Max (an energy-protein supplement), and MMN (INTA’s mineral mix). The animals were weighed every 21 days, and variables such as live weight, body condition score, hip height, and thoracic circumference were recorded. Forage availability was limited, with crude protein (CP) content ranging from 7.9% to 14.1% and metabolizable energy (ME) between 2.5 and 2.6 MCal kg-1 of dry matter (DM). No significant differences in live weight gain were observed among treatments (p>0.05), however, significant differences were found among groups with different body sizes (p<0.01). Smaller animals showed a better response to supplementation with BIOSAL and MMN. Supplement intake was significantly higher compared to the SAL group (+274% for MMN and +509% for BIOSAL), although no significant differences were observed in feed conversion (p>0.05). In terms of growth, no differences were detected in hip height or thoracic circumference (p>0.05). However, body condition declined uniformly across all treatments, indicating inadequate nutritional support. The lack of response was likely attributable to unfavorable weather conditions, which may have hindered the full expression of the fortified mineral mixtures’ potential. Repeating the experiment under more favorable environmental conditions is recommended to properly assess their effects.
Risk of traumatic injuries in dogs from Casilda city, Santa Fe, Argentina - according to socio-environmental differences
Trauma is a common type of injury in dogs and is associated with multiple factors that may vary across regions. The city of Casilda, located in southern Santa Fe Province, Argentina, faces a problem of dog overpopulation. This study aimed to estimate the relative risk of traumatic injuries (TI) in dogs from Casilda based on socio-environmental differences, and to identify potential risk factors associated with these injuries. A retrospective analytical study was conducted using clinical records of dogs treated at the Hospital de Pequeños y Grandes Animales (HEGyPA) in 2019, along with data from the Casilda municipal census, organized by the Faculty of Veterinary Science (UNR) and the Municipality of Casilda. Three socio-environmental strata were analyzed within the city: E1 (central area), E2 (intermediate area), and E3 (peripheral area). Co-habitation with other animals and roaming behavior were identified as factors associated with TI in the dogs treated at HEGyPA, while castration was found to be a protective factor. In addition to these factors, residents’ perceptions of situations indicative of animal suffering varied according to the socio-environmental stratum. Traumatic Injuries in dogs represent a complex issue that demands a multidisciplinary approach and a perspective that considers socio-environmental.
Copyright (c) 2025 C. Dieguez, M. Apa, L. Bittel, F. Abud, M. Faini, N. Quaglia https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Production and reproduction in Holstein dairy cows and different crosses in a grazing system
Fertility is one of the key factors in efficient pasture-based systems. The objective of this study was to evaluate the productive and reproductive performance of different crossbreeds and dairy breeds in a commercial grazing dairy farm in the province of Santa Fe, Argentina. Retrospective data were analyzed for the period from August 1, 2017, to January 12, 2021 (41 months). The database consisted of 1,342 pure Holstein (HO) lactations (799 cows), 344 HO x Jersey (JY) crossbreed lactations (164 cows), 190 JY * Montbéliarde (MO) crossbreed lactations (96 cows), and 316 MO x HO (XB) crossbreed lactations (134 cows). The 305-day milk production results (PL305) for first parity showed that JY and HO were statistically different from the other groups (p<0.05). For second and third parity, JY and MO differed from XB and HO (p<0.05). The number of services per conception (NS/C) differed between HO and XB (p<0.05) and between JY and XB (p<0.05). HO and XB cows, except for the first lactation, showed similar performance and were superior to other crossbred groups in milk yield, demonstrating the individual production superiority of the Holstein genotype. Crossbred cows outperformed in reproductive traits, with HO x Jersey crosses being the most efficient.
Copyright (c) 2025 E. Frana Bisang, D. Pipino, E. Quercia, M. Picardi, P. R. Marini https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Radiological evaluation of spondylosis deformans in the lumbar and lumbosacral vertebrae of dogs: breed, age, and gender associations
Spondylosis deformans (SD) is a common form of degenerative spinal disease in dogs, characterized by osseous bridging between vertebral bodies. This study focused on the lumbar and lumbosacral regions of the spine and analyzed radiographic records of 35 dogs of various breeds and age groups over a 12-month period. Computed tomography (CT) was selectively employed in cases where radiographic interpretation was inconclusive. The objective was to determine lesion localization and assess associations with breed, age, and gender. Findings showed that German Shepherds were most frequently diagnosed with SD, followed by Labrador Retrievers and mixed-breed dogs. Age distribution indicated that no cases were observed in dogs aged 1-2 years, while the highest prevalence occurred in the 7-10-year age group. Lesion localization data revealed that the L4-L6 region was most commonly affected. These results highlight the age-related progression of SD and its predilection for the lumbar spine, offering valuable insights for clinical assessment and management in veterinary practice.
Effect of high doses of florfenicol on some hematological parameters in adult goats
The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of high doses of florfenicol on selected hematological parameters in adult goats. Six adult Saanen goats were treated intramuscularly with three doses of florfenicol of 40 mg kg-1, administered at 24-hours intervals. Blood samples with anticoagulant were collected on day 0 and on days 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 10 and 12 after treatment initiation. The samples were analyzed to determine erythrocytes count, hematocrit, hemoglobin, leukocytes count, neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, and platelets. High doses of florfenicol significantly affect total white blood cell counts, particularly increasing neutrophils and monocytes. However, these findings contrast with previous studies reporting negative effects of the same dosage on erythrocyte and leukocyte values in adult goats. The results of this study may provide useful information for veterinarians monitoring hematological changes in adult goats undergoing florfenicol treatment.
The objective of this study was to assess broiler chickens welfare using transect and individual assessment methodologies, evaluating the robustness of the latter as an effective tool for welfare evaluation on poultry farms. Eight closed, tunnel-ventilated houses were studied, four fitted with blackout curtains and four with translucent curtains. Along each transect, the number of immobile, lame, dirty, sick, dying, or dead chickens was recorded. In the individual assessment, variables such as body weight, presence of footpad lesions, tarsal burns, feather cleanliness, and gait were measured at each sampling point. Hierarchical clustering analyses were performed using three aggregation methods: Complete, Average, and Ward.D, allowing grouping of farms based on similarity in these variables. Farm-level analysis produced stable clusters regardless of methodology. Dendrograms from the transect methodology were consistent across all three clustering methods, while individual assessment also yielded stable clustering independent of the clustering approach used. The findings suggest that both methodologies generate consistent and robust patterns in the data, supporting their validity and applicability. Although minor differences between methods were observed, their results were sufficiently congruent to recommend their combined use in future studies, expanding analytical capabilities in diverse poultry welfare assessments.
A new method for animal preservation avoids the use of formaldehyde and improves preservation features
Dr. W. Thiel developed a human cadaver preservation technique that maintains essential features such as tissue flexibility, elasticity, volume, and color, using minimal amounts of formaldehyde. This method enables clear anatomical recognition without significant alterations in the preserved material. The aim of this study was to evaluate the application of the CFP-Soft Fix specimen preservation method—a modified, formaldehyde-free version of Thiel’s technique—to the locomotor system of New Zealand rabbits. Twenty rabbits were used. Pelvic members were extracted and preserved. The effectiveness of the modified technique was assessed by examining parameters such as joint flexibility, muscle elasticity, muscle volume, tissue color, and presence of fungal or bacterial contamination. Additionally, a histological analysis of muscle and tendon tissues was performed. The solution proved to be non-irritating and nearly odorless, while effectively preserving color, flexibility, and plasticity, closely resembling live tissue. The preserved specimens exhibited excellent joint flexibility, good tissue elasticity, nearly normal muscle volume, and well-preserved histological muscle structure. The CFP–Soft Fix method successfully eliminated formaldehyde from the preservation process and demonstrated adaptability for use in domestic animals. This technique allows for safe anatomical study, supports the use of complementary tools such as arthroscopy, laparoscopy, endoscopy, and diagnostic imaging, and reinforces the importance of detailed anatomical knowledge in clinical education by improving recognition of topographic structures and spatial relationships.
Bovine milk and microplastics: Revealing the invisible with advanced microscopy
This study assessed the presence of microplastics (MP) in bovine milk marketed in Ecuador, considering milk type, packaging material, and the analytical methodology employed. A total of 35 samples of raw, whole, and semi-skimmed milk packaged in Tetra Pak, plastic pouches, or sold unpackaged were analyzed. Samples were subjected to direct observation (DO), density separation with supersaturated saline solution (SSS), filtration (FSSS), and chemical digestion with 10% NaOH (CD). Raw, unpackaged milk exhibited the highest MP concentrations (241.05 ± 66.18 MP L⁻¹), significantly exceeding those found in semi-skimmed (115.14 ± 24.21 MP L⁻¹) and whole milk (65.83 ± 14.19 MP L⁻¹), suggesting that industrial processing may partially reduce contamination. Unpackaged milk also showed higher MP levels compared to milk in Tetra Pak (92.38 ± 20.56 MP L⁻¹) and plastic pouches (88.60 ± 19.66 MP L⁻¹), indicating a protective effect of packaging. Among analytical methods, DO yielded the highest apparent MP concentrations (390.86 ± 48.48 MP L⁻¹), while SSS, SSSF, and CD reported lower values. CD, corroborated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), was found to be the most sensitive and reliable technique due to reduced interference. In conclusion, raw and unpackaged milk contained significantly higher levels of MPs, potentially due to factors such as contaminated feed and deteriorated milking equipment. These findings highlight the need to reinforce sanitary control during production, improve processing and packaging practices, and standardize analytical methodologies to ensure dairy safety and protect public health.
Hypoglycemia as paraneoplastic syndrome in a Fox terrier canine with leiomyoma in the gastric wall
The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical progression of hypoglycemia as a paraneoplastic syndrome in a dog diagnosed with gastric wall leiomyoma. A 10-yeaxr-old female Fox Terrier was presented with abdominal distension, lethargy, and weakness. Hematological evaluation showed normal complete blood count and renal profile, while the liver profile revealed elevated alkaline phosphatase and GPT. Electrolytes (Ca, P, K, Na) were within normal limits, but blood glucose was markedly decreased (35 mg dl-1). Abdominal ultrasonography revealed a mixed-echogenic mass in the epigastric region with positive Doppler signal. The patient was stabilized with 1 ml kg-1 of 50% dextrose and maintained on 5% isotonic glucose solution; however, hypoglycemia recurred upon suspension of glucose therapy. An exploratory laparotomy was performed, revealing a pedunculated, circular mass (14 x 9 x 8 cm) attached to the greater curvature of the stomach, without adhesions, and multiple hepatic nodules. The mass was excised, and the liver biopsies were obtained. Remarkably, blood glucose levels stabilized immediately after tumor removal. Histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of gastric leiomyoma. The dog remained asymptomatic, with normal glycemia and no recurrence of lethargy or weakness, for up to one-year post-surgery.
Comparison between glycerol and dimethylformamide in the cryopreservation of llama semen (Lama glama)
The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of two concentrations of glycerol (5% and 7%) and dimethylformamide (DMF; 7% and 9%) on the successful cryopreservation of llama semen collected by electroejaculation (EE). Sixteen ejaculates were obtained from eight adult males (4-7 years old). Semen samples were incubated with papain for 20 min to reduce viscosity, and the enzymatic action was subsequently inhibited before fresh evaluation. Samples were diluted in a Tris-based medium and gradually cooled to 5 °C over 2.5 h. They were then divided into four aliquots for cryoprotectant addition, evaluated during the cooling phase, packaged in straws, frozen within 25 min, and stored for 7 days prior to thawing. Sperm analysis was performed using a CASA-Mot system (ISAS®), assessing total motility (TM), kinematic parameters, sperm viability, and acrosomal integrity in fresh (papain-incubated), cooled, and thawed samples. Data was analyzed using a randomized complete block design, with mean comparisons performed by Tukey’s test (p<0.05). Results showed that TM, viability, and acrosomal integrity were significantly higher (p<0.05) in fresh semen compared to samples treated with glycerol or DMF during the cooling and post-thaw stages. Moreover, curvilinear velocity and amplitude of lateral head displacement were higher in fresh semen and in samples treated with 5% and 7% glycerol during cooling. In conclusion, none of the evaluated concentrations of glycerol or DMF effectively preserved sperm parameters after cryopreservation.
Application of estradiol benzoate as an alternative to equine chorionic gonadotropin in heat synchronization protocols in sheep
In sheep, traditional estrus synchronization (ES) protocols involve the insertion of a progesterone- or progestogen-containing device, followed by the administration of equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) at device removal to induce ovulation. Previous research evaluating estradiol benzoate (EB) as an alternative to eCG has reported low pregnancy rates. The objectives of this study were to determine (a) the optimal EB dose (100 vs. 200 μg) and timing of administration (0, 24, or 36 h after device removal) within an ES protocol (Experiments I and II), and (b) the pregnancy rate obtained using ES protocols with progesterone plus either eCG or EB, combined with fixed-time artificial insemination (FTAI; Experiment III), in ewes during the breeding season. Experiments I and II indicated that the optimal EB treatment was 100 μg administered at 0 h. In Experiment III, pregnancy rates did not differ between eCG- and EB-based ES protocols. These findings suggest that EB can replace eCG in ES protocols with FTAI at 50–55 h using fresh semen, although further research is needed to refine the timing of FTAI.
Breed- and sex-related variations in the number of incisors and morphometric-biochemical parameters in neonatal buffalo calves
Reproductive efficiency and neonatal survival are critical determinants of productivity in buffalo farming systems. The objective of this study was to evaluate incisor eruption and to assess morphometric, hematological, and biochemical parameters in neonatal buffalo calves during the first week of life. Twenty neonatal buffalo calves (1–7 days old), equally distributed by breed (Murrah and Mediterranean) and sex, raised in Corrientes, Argentina, were included. The number of erupted incisors, body weight, thoracic girth, and hematological and biochemical parameters were recorded using standardized methods. Data were analyzed by ANOVA, and the 5th–95th percentiles as well as 95% confidence intervals were calculated (p<0.05). Forty-seven percent of the calves had four erupted incisors, 37% had two, and 16% had six, with no significant differences between sexes or breeds. However, significant differences were observed: Mediterranean calves were heavier than Murrah calves (39.57 ± 1.45 vs. 33.56 ± 1.68 kg; p<0.02), and males showed greater body weight (37.56 ± 3.22 vs. 34.67 ± 2.14 kg; p<0.04) and thoracic girth (88.22 ± 2.33 vs. 85.33 ± 3.58 cm; p<0.02) compared with females. Regarding hematological and biochemical parameters, males had significantly higher values of hematocrit (38.03 ± 2.02% vs. 35.15 ± 2.19%; p<0.04), erythrocyte count (8.03 ± 0.47 vs. 7.28 ± 0.51106 μl-¹; p<0.03), alkaline phosphatase (613.01 ± 37.09 vs. 513.83 ± 29.52 U·L-¹; p<0.02), and LDH (261.32 ± 18.75 vs. 227.23 ± 17.60 U·L-¹; p<0.03). Conversely, females showed higher concentrations of total protein (7.07 ± 0.93 vs. 6.27 ± 0.67 g·dL-¹; p<0.03), albumin (1.89 ± 0.44 vs. 1.63 ± 0.39 g·dL-¹; p<0.04), and triglycerides (1.08 ± 0.18 vs. 0.76 ± 0.20 g·L-¹; p<0.04). These findings constitute the first report of sexual dimorphism in hematological and biochemical parameters during the first week of life in buffalo calves and provide valuable reference values for sex-specific neonatal management and the optimization of rearing protocols in subtropical production systems.
Presence of dermatophytes in public spaces in the city of La Plata: A threat to society?
Dermatophytes are the etiological agents of dermatophytosis, particularly affecting populations with frequent exposure to animals, contaminated soil, or shared environments. Due to their high transmissibility and zoonotic potential, they represent an important public health concern. The objective of this study was to detect the presence of dermatophytes in public spaces commonly shared by humans and animals, such as squares and parks in the city of La Plata, Argentina. A total of 72 soil samples were collected. Fungal identification was performed based on macromorphological and micromorphological characteristics, and the pH of each sample was also determined. Of the ten sampled public sites, seven tested positives for dermatophytes. This finding confirmed the presence of organic matter and identified the pH range favorable for fungal growth in several of the sampled areas. Individuals who choose to live with companion animals must commit to ensuring animal health and welfare, as well as implementing environmental hygiene and preventive practices. Identifying the species responsible for dermatophytosis provides valuable insight into the risk factors associated with zoonotic superficial mycoses and supports future epidemiological surveillance efforts.
A postmortem case of the pink teeth phenomenon in an ocelot Leopardus pardalis
We report a case of the postmortem pink teeth phenomenon, observed in an ocelot Leopardus pardalis killed by vehicular trauma in northeastern Argentina. The specimen showed pink-purple discoloration in all teeth, which was most pronounced at the root and below the cervical area. Although this discoloration is usually associated with cadavers remaining submerged in water or exposed to high humidity for extended periods, in this case the pink coloration developed within 48 hours postmortem, and under low ambient humidity. This phenomenon, likely underreported, warrants further investigation to better understand how environmental conditions, postmortem interval, and cause of death may influence its appearance. Establishing a potential association between the occurrence of pink teeth and specific causes of death in wild animals could provide a valuable tool for veterinary forensic investigations.
Equine Asthma Syndrome (EAS) is a recently adopted term that encompasses chronic, non infectious inflammatory conditions of the lower airways. It facilitates the recognition of shared phenotypic features among these disorders, including airway hyperresponsiveness, bronchospasm, inflammatory cell infiltration, increased mucus production with altered viscoelastic properties, and progressive airway remodeling over time. This terminology provides a broad phenotypic framework that enables subcategorization of the disease based on severity, according to clinical presentation (presence or absence of respiratory effort at rest), triggering factors (barn versus pasture exposure) and supporting diagnostic tests such as endoscopic findings and bronchoalveolar lavage cytology. In this way, two subtypes of asthma are defined, mild to moderate asthma (formerly known as Inflammatory Airway Disease) and severe asthma (formerly known as Recurrent Airway Obstruction). Although the pathogenesis is not yet fully understood, stable housing is recognized as the primary risk factor, as affected horses are potentially exposed to high concentrations of organic and inorganic airborne particles, as well as noxious gases. Treatment focuses on minimizing exposure to airborne dust through environmental management, combined with pharmacological therapy aimed at reducing inflammation and bronchospasm with corticosteroids and bronchodilators
Malaria in mining regions of Colombia: epidemiological characteristics and associated environmental factors
Malaria remains a significant global public health concern, particularly in tropical regions such as Colombia. The Pacific region is the most severely affected due to environmental factors such as high rainfall and elevated temperatures, which have been intensified by climate change. Moreover, mining and resource exploitation activities not only facilitate the transmission of malaria, but also exert profound social impact on local communities, particularly in terms of health and living conditions. In this context, the implementation of effective strategies for malaria prevention and treatment is essential, including the strengthening of epidemiological surveillance systems to ensure early detection and rapid response to outbreaks. This study analyzes the correlation between environmental changes induced by mining activities and the incidence of malaria in Colombia. The analysis is based on documentary sources collected from academic and governmental databases published over the past 15 years.