Abstract The breeding of replacement heifers in breeding systems is an important factor that directly affects the productivity of livestock companies. The aim of this study was to assess the reproductive performance of replacement heifers during their first breeding season, considering morphostructural and reproductive development variables. 142 zebu cross females of 22 to 24 months of age were used, previously selected by weight (a minimum of 67% of the estimated weight for an adult cow under the system was considered). An observational design was used before service in which they were divided into 3 groups according to the degree of reproductive development (RTS 1 to 3), live weight (LW), body condition (BCS 1-9), and zoometric measurements. The service was carried out by artificial insemination at a fixed time (TAI) and natural service (NS). The pregnancy diagnosis was carried out 32 days after the TAI and 35 days after the bulls were removed for NS. The results showed significant differences between the growth and development variables, except in cannon bone circumference and rump height. For LW the RTS1 were 10% heavier than the RTS3. The χ2 test identified association between NS and RTS with 50, 82 and 32%, as well as in general pregnancy of 84, 92 and 67% pregnancy in RTS1, 2 and 3, respectively. In conclusion, for the pre- breeding selection of replacement heifers, it is essential to consider not only live weight but also the degree of reproductive development and zoometric variables.

Resumen La recría de vaquillonas de reposición en sistemas de cría es un factor importante que afecta directamente la productividad de las empresas ganaderas. El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar el desempeño reproductivo de vaquillonas en el primer servicio, considerando variables morfoestructurales y de desarrollo reproductivo. Se utilizaron 142 hembras de 22 a 24 meses de edad cruza cebú, previamente seleccionadas por peso (se consideró un mínimo de 67% del peso estimado para una vaca adulta bajo el sistema). Se utilizó un diseño observacional antes del servicio en el que se dividieron en 3 grupos según, grado de desarrollo reproductivo (GDR 1 a 3), peso vivo (PV), condición corporal (CC 1-9) y mediciones zoométricas. El servicio fue realizado mediante inseminación artificial a tiempo fijo (IATF) y servicio natural. El diagnóstico de gestación se llevó a cabo a los 32 días luego de la IATF y 35 días después de retirados los toros para el servicio natural. Los resultados demostraron diferencias significativas entre las variables de crecimiento y desarrollo, excepto en perímetro de la caña y alzada a la grupa. Para PV las GDR1 fueron 10% más pesadas que las GDR3. La prueba de χ2 encontró asociación entre servicio natural y GDR con 50, 82 y 32%, como así también en la preñez general de 84, 92 y 67% de preñez en GDR 1, 2 y 3, respectivamente. En conclusión, para la selección pre-servicio en vaquillonas de reposición, es importante considerar no solo el peso vivo, sino también el grado de desarrollo reproductivo y las variables zoométricas.

Abstract Growth and carcass traits are essential selection criteria for beef cattle breeding programs. However, it is necessary to combine these measurements with body composition traits to meet the demand of the consumer market. This study aimed to estimate the genetic parameters for visual scores, growth (pre and post-weaning weights), and carcass (rib eye area (REA), back and rump fat thickness) traits in Nellore cattle using Bayesian inference. Data from 12,060 animals belonging to the HoRa Hofig Ramos herd were used. Morphological traits were evaluated by the MERCOS methodology. The heritability estimates obtained ranged from low to high magnitude, from 0.15 to 0.28 for visual scores, 0.13 to 0.44 for growth, and from 0.42 to 0.46 for carcass traits. Genetic correlations between visual scores and growth traits were generally of moderate to high magnitudes, however, visual scores showed low correlations with carcass traits, except between sacral bone and structure and REA. Selection for visual score traits can lead to favorable responses in body weight and vice versa, but the same is not true for carcass traits. Morphological categorical traits can be used as complementary tools that add value to selection. programs However market pre postweaning post weaning weights, weights , weights) rib REA, REA (REA) thickness inference 12060 12 060 12,06 methodology magnitude 015 0 15 0.1 028 28 0.2 013 13 044 44 0.4 042 42 046 46 magnitudes however versa (REA 1206 1 06 12,0 01 0. 02 2 04 4 120 12,

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of licuri (Syagrus coronate) cake (LC) on the chemical composition, cholesterol content, and fatty acid profile of meat from cull cows finished in a high-grain feedlot. We used 40 Zebu cull cows of 108 months of age and with an initial weight of 318 ± 38.17 kg. The animals were distributed into four treatments in a completely randomized design: control (0 g/kg LC), 50, 100, and 150 g/kg LC in the total dry matter of the total diet, and were confined for 105 d. The inclusion of LC influenced the content of total lipids and total cholesterol of the beef. The inclusion of LC influenced the concentrations of fatty acids (C12:0, C14:0, C14:1, C16:0, and C17:1) in the meat of cull cows. There was an effect of the inclusion of LC on the fatty acids C18:2n6t, C18:2n6, and C18:3n3 of the meat of cull cows finished in the feedlot. The inclusion of up to 50 g/kg LC in the diet of cows provided lower values for the sum (Σ) of saturated fatty acids and higher values for Σ monounsaturated fatty acids in the meat. The Σ polyunsaturated fatty acids decreased with the inclusion of LC in the diet. We recommend using up to 50 g/kg of licuri cake inclusion in the diet of cull cows finished in the feedlot.

Resumo O objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar as características da carcaça e da carne de novilhos confinados no Brasil de acordo com o grupo genético por meio de uma revisão sistemática e meta-análise. Foi realizada busca eletrônica de artigos nas bases de dados Scielo e Google Acadêmico e os dados foram agrupados de acordo com a predominância genética. Os resultados foram testados quanto à heterogeneidade e submetidos ao teste de normalidade e teste F e as médias comparadas pelo teste de Tukey. Novilhos predominantemente britânicos foram terminados em idade mais jovem, necessitaram de tempos de confinamento mais longos e apresentaram menores pesos de carcaça quente e menores áreas de olho de lombo no abate. Os percentuais de carcaça muscular foram maiores nos novilhos Continentais e Sintéticos em relação aos Britânicos e Zebu, enquanto os percentuais de gordura foram maiores nos Britânicos e Zebu em comparação aos continentais e sintéticos. O marmoreio da carne foi maior nos novilhos britânicos, continentais e mestiços em relação aos novilhos sintéticos e zebuínos. A origem do novilho britânico permite menor idade de abate, embora leve à redução do peso da carcaça quente, enquanto a predominância genética do zebu pode produzir carcaças com alto percentual de gordura. metaanálise. metaanálise meta análise. análise meta-análise Tukey jovem abate zebuínos

Abstract The aim of the present study was to assess the carcass and meat characteristics of feedlot steers in Brazil according to genetic group through a systematic review and meta-analysis. An electronic article search was conducted at the Scielo and Google Scholar databases and data were grouped according to genetic predominance. The results were tested for heterogeneity and submitted to a normality test and F test and the means were compared by the Tukey test. Predominantly British steers were finished at a younger age, required longer confinement times and displayed lower hot carcass weights and smaller loin eye areas at slaughter. Muscle carcass percentages were higher in Continental and Synthetic steers compared to British and Zebu steers, while fat percentages were higher in British and Zebu steers compared to continental and synthetic breeds. Meat marbling was higher in British, continental and crossbreed steers compared to synthetic and zebu steers. A British steer origin allows for decreased slaughter age, although leading to reduced hot carcass weight, while a genetic Zebu predominance can produce high fat percentage carcasses. metaanalysis. metaanalysis meta analysis. analysis meta-analysis age breeds weight carcasses

Resumen Introducción. Estudios sobre características estructurales del ovario asociadas con calidad del complejo cúmulos-oocito (COCs) en bovinos, contribuyen con la definición de estrategias para mejorar la eficiencia reproductiva. Objetivo. Determinar el peso y tamaño de los ovarios, calidad de los folículos y COCs en hembras Cebú, para establecer diferencias entre el ovario derecho e izquierdo. Materiales y métodos. Entre marzo y julio del 2017, se obtuvieron 52 ovarios de veintiséis vacas Cebú. Los ovarios y folículos se pesaron y midieron. Los folículos se agruparon en tres categorías: a) <3 mm (TFI), b) 3-6 mm (TFII) y c) >6 mm (TFIII). La calidad de los folículos se determinó mediante la técnica de irrigación-traslucidez (TIT) y la de COCs por las características del citoplasma y células del cúmulo como buena (CI), regular (CII) y mala (CIII), y mediante la prueba azul brillante de cresilo se categorizaron como BCB+ y BCB-. Resultados. La longitud, ancho y peso de los ovarios fueron 2,7 ± 0,6 cm, 1,8 ± 0,5 cm y 7,0 ± 3 g, respectivamente, con diferencias para longitud y peso entre ovario derecho e izquierdo (p<0,01). La mayor cantidad de folículos se obtuvieron en TFI (p<0,05). El 88,56 % de los folículos evaluados fueron de buena calidad. El 52 % y 44,2 % de COCs fueron clasificados como CI y BCB+, respectivamente. Cuando se consideró el tamaño del folículo y la calidad del COCs, se evidenció que en el grupo TFI el 22 % fueron CI, el 34 % CII y el 44 % CIII, y el TFII el 31 % fue CI, el 21 % CII y el 48 % CIII. No se observan diferencias entre ovario izquierdo y derecho. Conclusión. El ovario derecho presentó un mayor tamaño y peso, mayor número de estructuras foliculares y mayor número de CCOs de buena calidad.

Abstract Introduction. Studies on the structural characteristics of the ovary associated with the quality of the cumulus-oocyte complex (COCs) in cattle contribute to the definition of strategies to improve reproductive efficiency. Objective. To determine the weight and size of the ovaries, follicle quality, and COCs in Zebu females, in order to establish differences between the right and left ovary. Materials and methods. Between March and July 2017, 52 ovaries were obtained from twenty-six Zebu cows. The ovaries and follicles were weighed and measured. The follicles were grouped into three categories: a) <3 mm (TFI), b) 3-6 mm (TFII) and c) >6 mm (TFIII). The follicles quality was determined by the irrigation-translucency technique (TIT) and the COCs by the characteristics of the cytoplasm and cumulus cells as good (CI), fair (CII), and poor (CIII), and by cresyl brilliant blue test were categorized as BCB+ and BCB-. Results. Ovarian length, width and weight were 2.7 ± 0.6 cm, 1.8 ± 0.5 cm, and 7.0 ± 3 g, respectively, with differences for length and weight between the right and left ovary (p<0.01). The highest number of follicles were obtained in TFI (p<0.05). The 88.56 % of the follicles evaluated were of good quality. A total of 52 % and 44.2 % of COCs were classified as CI and BCB+, respectively. When follicle size and COC quality were considered, it was shown that in the TFI group 22 % were IC, 34 % CII, and 44 % CIII, and in the TFII group 31 % were IC, 21 % CII and 48 % CIII. No differences were observed between left and right ovary. Conclusion. The right ovary presented a greater size and weight, a greater number of follicular structures and a greater number of good quality CCOs.

ABSTRACT The study aimed to estimate the seroprevalence and risk factors for Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis in Villavicencio, Colombia. Blood samples were taken from 1000 dual-purpose cattle in 24 farms. The diagnosis was done by indirect ELISA for the detection of antibodies. Risk factors were determined using univariate and multivariate tests. The overall seroprevalence of Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis was 52.4% and that of the herd was 100%. Female sex, animals older than 4 years, and sale of animals were identified as risk factors. The zebu breed was considered as a protection factor.

RESUMEN El estudio tuvo como objetivo estimar la seroprevalencia y factores de riesgo para Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis en Villavicencio, Colombia. Se tomaron muestras de sangre a 1000 bovinos de doble propósito en 24 fincas. El diagnóstico se realizó mediante ELISA indirecta para la detección de anticuerpos. Los factores de riesgo fueron determinados mediante pruebas univariadas y multivariadas. La seroprevalencia general de Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis fue 52.4% y la del hato de 100%. Se identificaron como factores de riesgo el sexo hembra, animales mayores de 4 años, y venta de animales. La raza cebú fue considerado como factor de protección.

Resumen El toro es un factor de importancia genética y económica en un hato ganadero, ya que de este dependerán las próximas generaciones; por lo tanto, es esencial la evaluación de la calidad seminal y la criopreservación de su material genético. El objetivo del estudio fue evaluar el efecto de dos temperaturas de dilución sobre la calidad de semen de ganado cebuino del Trópico Peruano. Dos toros Gyr fueron colectados semanalmente mediante electroeyaculación. Las muestras se colocaron en baño maría a 34°C y se analizaron las características macroscópicas y microscópicas del semen. Solo los eyaculados con >60% de motilidad y <20% de anormalidades fueron procesados, separándolos en dos tratamientos. El T1 consistió en predilución 1:1 a 34°C, luego de 30 minutos una dilución final agregando el dilutor a 34°C. El T2 consistió en predilución 1:1 a 34°C y a los 30 minutos de estabilización se llevó a refrigeración conjuntamente con el dilutor, para luego realizar la dilución final a 5°C. La calidad seminal fue analizada luego de 16 horas de refrigeración. El porcentaje de vitalidad en T1 (80,89%) fue mayor que en T2 (71,22%) (p<0,05), la reacción positiva a la prueba hipoosmótica fue mayor en T1 (71,11%) que en T2 (60%) (p<0,05). La integridad acrosomal y los rasgos morfométricos no variaron según tratamientos. En conclusión, la dilución inicial y final a 34°C en toros Gyr influye positivamente sobre la calidad seminal antes de la congelación de pajillas de semen.

Abstract The bull is a factor of genetic and economic importance in cattle breed, since the next generations will depend on it; therefore, the evaluation of the seminal quality and the cryopreservation of its genetic material are essential. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of two dilution temperatures on the quality of semen from zebuine cattle from the Peruvian Tropics. The samples were placed in a water bath at 34°C and the macroscopic and microscopic characteristics of semen were analyzed. Only the ejaculates with >60% motility and <20% abnormalities were processed, separating them into two treatments. T1 consisted of a 1:1 predilution at 34°C, followed by a final dilution of 30 minutes by adding the dilutor at 34°C. T2 consisted of a 1:1 predilution at 34°C and after 30 minutes of stabilization, refrigeration was carried out together with the dilutor, in order to carry out the final dilution at 5°C. The seminal quality was analyzed after 16 hours of refrigeration. The percentage of vitality in T1 (80.89%) was greater than in T2 (71.22%) (p<0.05), the positive reaction to the hypoosmotic problem was greater in T1 (71.11%) than in T2 (60%) (p<0.05). Acrosomal integrity and morphometric features did not vary according to treatments. In conclusion, the initial and final dilution at 34°C in Gyr bulls positively influences the semen quality before the freezing of semen packets.

ABSTRACT: The objectives were to analyze the genealogical information of Gyr (GY) and Nelore (NL) cattle from Costa Rica. Analyzed: pedigree integrity (GY, 13272; NL, 18153); number of complete, maximum traced and equivalent complete generations; inbreeding (FI); generation interval (GI) through four selection routes; average additive genetic ratio (AGR); effective number of founders (fe); effective number of ancestors (fa); effective population size (Ne). The analysis was performed with the ENDOG software. The maximum proportion of unknown parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents was 18.6%, 39.9%, and 59.3%, respectively. The average FI for NL was 8.87% and 2.85% in GY. The average consanguineous population (%) and FI was 53.9 and 16.5% in NL, 28.9 and 9.9% in GY. The average and maximum values of AGR for NL were 3.5 and 12.8, 1.4 and 5.6 in GY. The fe and fa for NL were 65.0 and 38.0, in GY 145.7 and 59.0. The Ne indicated increases in FI in the range of 1 to 2% in GY, for NL greater than 2%, with a status of care to monitor the evolution of F and AGR and their possible implications in genetic improvement. The GI ranged from 6.3 to 7.9 years with a general average of 6.9 years. These results show a summary of the genetic and reproductive management those breeders have carried out. ABSTRACT (GY (NL Rica Analyzed 13272 18153 18153) generations (FI) (GI routes (AGR) (fe) (fa) Ne. . (Ne) software parents grandparents greatgrandparents great 186 18 6 18.6% 399 39 9 39.9% 593 59 3 59.3% respectively 887 8 87 8.87 285 2 85 2.85 % (% 539 53 53. 165 16 5 16.5 289 28 28. 99 9.9 35 3. 128 12 12.8 14 4 1. 56 5. 650 65 0 65. 380 38 38.0 1457 145 7 145. 590 59.0 improvement 63 6. 79 7. 69 out 1327 1815 (FI (AGR (fe (fa (Ne 18.6 39.9 59.3 88 8.8 2.8 ( 16. 9. 12. 38. 59. 132 181 18. 39. 8. 2. 13

RESUMO: Os objetivos foram analisar as informações genealógicas de bovinos Gir (GY) e Nelore (NL) da Costa Rica. Foram considerados: integridade do pedigree (GY, 13272; NL, 18153); número de gerações completas, máximas traçadas e equivalentes completas; endogamia (FI); intervalo de geração (GI) por meio de quatro rotas de seleção; razão genética aditiva média (AGR); número efetivo de fundadores (fe); número efetivo de ancestrais (fa); tamanho efetivo da população (Ne). A análise foi realizada com o software ENDOG. A proporção máxima de pais, avós e bisavós desconhecidos foi de 18,6%, 39,9% e 59,3%, respectivamente. O FI médio para NL foi de 8,87% e 2,85% no GY. A média da população consanguínea (%) e FI foi de 53,9 e 16,5% em NL, 28,9 e 9,9% em GY. Os valores médios e máximos de AGR para NL foram 3,5 e 12,8, 1,4 e 5,6 no GY. Os fe e fa para NL foram 65,0 e 38,0, no GY 145,7 e 59,0. O Ne indicou aumentos de FI na faixa de 1 a 2% no GY, para NL superiores a 2%, com status de cuidado para acompanhar a evolução de F e AGR e suas possíveis implicações no melhoramento genético. O IG variou de 6,3 a 7,9 anos com média geral de 6,9 anos. Esses resultados mostram um resumo do manejo genético e reprodutivo realizado por esses criadores. RESUMO (GY (NL Rica considerados 13272 18153 18153) completas (FI) GI (GI seleção (AGR) (fe) (fa) Ne. . (Ne) ENDOG pais 186 18 6 18,6% 399 39 9 39,9 593 59 3 59,3% respectivamente 887 8 87 8,87 285 2 85 2,85 % (% 539 53 53, 165 16 5 16,5 289 28 28, 99 9,9 35 3, 128 12 12,8 14 4 1, 56 5, 650 65 0 65, 380 38 38,0 1457 145 7 145, 590 59,0 63 6, 79 7, 69 criadores 1327 1815 (FI (AGR (fe (fa (Ne 18,6 39, 59,3 88 8,8 2,8 ( 16, 9, 12, 38, 59, 132 181 18, 8, 2, 13

Abstract A new frame score system was developed for Nellore cattle, based upon ideal slaughter weights to achieve desired degrees of carcass fat cover. Data consisting of 688 complete records including sex, age, weight, hip height, and subcutaneous fat on growing Nellore cattle (190 males and 498 females) were obtained from the National Association of Breeders and Researchers (ANCP), Ribeirão Preto – SP, Brazil. Weight data were regressed on sex, age, hip height, and fat cover as covariates. Age was then fixed at 550 days and fat cover was set to 6 mm, and new equations for frame scores (1 to 11) in Nellore cattle were developed: FrameNellore (males) = -42.43 + 0.04919 × Age + 0.3368 × Height – 0.0003369 × Age × Height and FrameNellore (females) = -41.76 + 0.04919 × Age + 0.3368 × Height – 0.0003369 × Age × Height (Age and Height in days and cm, respectively). The Nellore equations resulted in average frame of 5.3, ranging from 2.3 to 7.7. Values were similar for males (5.4) and females (5.3). By contrast, previous equations gave higher values, that were very different between males and females. The new Nellore frame scores appear reasonable, particularly regarding body composition. 68 sex age weight height 190 (19 49 ANCP, ANCP , (ANCP) SP Brazil covariates 55 mm 1 ( 11 (males 42.43 4243 42 43 -42.4 004919 0 04919 0.0491 03368 3368 0.336 00003369 0003369 0.000336 (females 41.76 4176 41 76 -41.7 cm respectively. respectively . respectively) 53 5 3 5.3 23 2 2. 77 7 7.7 5.4 54 4 (5.4 5.3. (5.3) contrast values reasonable composition 19 (ANCP 42.4 424 -42. 00491 0491 0.049 0336 336 0.33 0000336 000336 0.00033 41.7 417 -41. 5. 7. (5. (5.3 42. -42 0049 049 0.04 033 33 0.3 000033 00033 0.0003 41. -41 (5 -4 004 04 0.0 03 0. 00003 0003 0.000 - 00 0000 000 0.00

Resumo Um novo sistema de escore para estrutura corporal foi desenvolvido para bovinos Nelore, baseado em pesos de abate ideais para atingir os graus desejados de cobertura de gordura da carcaça. Dados de 688 registros completos incluindo sexo, idade, peso, altura do quadril e gordura subcutânea de bovinos Nelore em crescimento (190 machos e 498 fêmeas) foram obtidos da Associação Nacional de Criadores e Pesquisadores (ANCP), Ribeirão Preto – SP, Brasil. Os dados de peso foram regredidos por sexo, idade, altura do quadril e cobertura de gordura como covariáveis. A idade foi então fixada em 550 dias e a cobertura de gordura foi fixada em 6 mm, e novas equações para escores de estrutura corporal (1 a 11) em bovinos Nelore foram desenvolvidas: FrameNelore (machos) = -42,43 + 0,04919 × Idade + 0,3368 × Altura – 0,0003369 × Idade × Altura e FrameNellore (fêmeas) = -41,76 + 0,04919 × Idade + 0,3368 × Altura – 0,0003369 × Idade × Altura (Idade e Altura em dias e cm, respectivamente). As equações de Nelore resultaram em estrutura corporal médio de 5,3, variando de 2,3 a 7,7. Os valores foram semelhantes para machos (5,4) e fêmeas (5,3). Por outro lado, as equações anteriores deram valores mais altos, que eram muito diferentes entre machos e fêmeas. As novas pontuações de estruturacorporal no Nelore parecem razoáveis, principalmente em relação à composição corporal. carcaça 68 sexo 190 (19 49 ANCP, ANCP , (ANCP) SP Brasil covariáveis 55 mm 1 ( 11 desenvolvidas (machos 42,43 4243 42 43 -42,4 004919 0 04919 0,0491 03368 3368 0,336 00003369 0003369 0,000336 (fêmeas 41,76 4176 41 76 -41,7 cm respectivamente. respectivamente . respectivamente) 53 5 3 5,3 23 2 2, 77 7 7,7 5,4 54 4 (5,4 5,3. (5,3) lado altos razoáveis 19 (ANCP 42,4 424 -42, 00491 0491 0,049 0336 336 0,33 0000336 000336 0,00033 41,7 417 -41, 5, 7, (5, (5,3 42, -42 0049 049 0,04 033 33 0,3 000033 00033 0,0003 41, -41 (5 -4 004 04 0,0 03 0, 00003 0003 0,000 - 00 0000 000 0,00

Abstract Acrobustitis is the inflammation of the distal prepuce, which can lead to a narrowing of the preputial ostium due to stenosis or growth of fibrous tissue after an inflammatory reaction. This condition usually occurs in cattle with long prepuce, such as Zebu or Zebu’s crossbreeds, leading the animal to Impotentia Coeundi, this condition is characterized by the bull's disability to copulate, that leads to lower herd fertility and consequent financial losses. Normally, corrective surgeries are performed on-farm and the animal is placed in a lateral recumbency. However, in some situations the animal is restrained with ropes and remains on the grass, dirt or even on uneven floors, which can cause neuropathies, bloat or hypoxia. Due to a series of complications that can occur in the postoperative period of surgery in the lateral recumbency, this article aims to describe the surgical technique for correcting acrobustitis with the animal in a standing position. Ten corrective surgeries for acrobustitis were performed in adult bulls between 4 and 8 years of age and predominantly of zebu or crossbreeds, with a total recovery of the animals for full reproductive activity. prepuce reaction Zebus s crossbreeds Coeundi bull copulate losses Normally onfarm farm recumbency However grass floors neuropathies hypoxia position activity

ABSTRACT The environment is vital to the agricultural sector since it can cause adversities throughout the entire productive chain. This study evaluated the geographical distribution of zebu breeds in Brazil and correlated their occurrence with environmental variables and the human development index. Herds of purebred zebu cattle (Bos indicus) in Brazil were classified as beef, dairy, and dual-purpose breeds, and all breeds were spatialized in the ArcGIS program. Environmental (precipitation, temperature, relative humidity index) and the human development index (HDI) were examined. We conducted regression and logistic analyses. Zebu cattle showed a lower distribution in the Northeastern states compared to other locations, possibly due to harsh weather conditions, namely long periods of high temperatures and lower precipitation, directly affecting local livestock. Beef breeds were evenly spread throughout the country in regions influenced by environmental variables of higher precipitation, normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), temperature, relative humidity (RH), and temperature humidity index (THI), as well as properties without smallholder farmers and rivers and streams with riparian vegetation. The regions for dual-purpose and dairy breeds were predominantly cultivated with cutting forages (e.g., sugarcane - Saccharum officinarum), with the integration of crops, livestock and/or forestry (i.e., combining different activities in the same area) and areas with a rotational grazing system (i.e., grazing management), indicating a higher occupation in fertile lands. The Gir breed, the only dairy breed evaluated in this study, was seen in establishments with smallholder farmers, characterized by small to medium farms, and in regions at higher altitudes.

RESUMO O presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a relação entre a contagem de folículos antrais (CFA) e a morfologia ovariana de Bos indicus em diferentes faixas etárias: 12-23 meses (G1), 24-35 meses (G2), 36-47 meses (G3), 48-59 meses (G4) e >60 meses (G5). Os ovários foram coletados individualmente e enviados ao laboratório, onde suas características morfológicas foram medidas: CFA, diâmetro e peso dos ovários, do folículo dominante (FD, ≥8 mm), do corpo lúteo (CL) e dos folículos pequenos (SF, <8 mm). A CFA foi classificada como alta, intermediária-alta, intermediária-baixa e baixa. Um grupo de ovários foi submetido à aspiração folicular para avaliar a qualidade morfológica dos complexos cumulus oócitos (COCs) recuperados. A CFA média não variou entre as idades. A característica morfológica que se correlacionou mais intimamente com a CFA foi o peso dos folículos pequenos. Não houve relação entre a CFA e o peso e o diâmetro do FD e do CL. A qualidade dos COCs foi superior em ovários em que o CL estava presente, mas não variou entre as classes de CFA. Concluiu-se que a CFA pode ser realizada em um único ovário, independentemente da presença, do diâmetro e do peso do CL e do FD em zebuínos entre 12 e 60 meses de vida.

ABSTRACT This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between the antral follicle count (AFC) and the ovarian morphology of Bos indicus in different age groups: 12-23 months (G1), 24-35 months (G2), 36-47 months (G3), 48-59 months (G4), and >60 months (G5). Ovaries were collected individually and sent to the laboratory, where we measured AFC, the diameter and weight of the ovaries, dominant follicle (DF, ≥8mm), corpus luteum (CL), and small follicles (SF, <8mm). AFC were classified as high, intermediate-high, intermediate-low, and low. A group of ovaries was subjected to follicular aspiration to evaluate the morphological quality of the recovered cumulus oocyte complexes (COCs). Mean AFC did not vary between ages. The morphological characteristic that was most closely correlated with AFC was the weight of the small follicles. There was no relationship between AFC and the weight and diameter of the DF and CL. Quality of the COCs was superior in ovaries in which the CL was present, but it did not vary between the AFC classes. We conclude that AFC can be performed on a single ovary, regardless of the presence, diameter, and weight of the CL and DF in zebu between 12 and 60 months old.

RESUMO O objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar e criar intervalos de referência normais para o perfil hemato-químico do gado colistano (n=360) criado sob pastoreio. As comparações foram feitas com dados publicados anteriormente sobre as raças bovinas Bos indicus e taurus. O estado geral de saúde dos animais foi verificado através de uma anamnese minuciosa dos proprietários de gado e de sinais clínicos. No entanto, a teileriose, em particular, foi descartada através de exame de esfregaço de sangue. Os animais foram designados em grupos de acordo com a idade: jovens (n=190; ≤12 meses) e adultos (n=170; >12 meses até 7 anos); e sexo: bovinos machos (n=182) e fêmeas (n=178). A média (±SE), mediana, faixa e intervalos de referência (percentil 25 a 95) para o perfil hemato-químico foram determinados através de estatísticas descritivas e as diferenças entre vários grupos foram analisadas através do teste Mann Whitney U. Os resultados deste estudo podem servir como valores hemato-químicos de referência para bovinos cholistani em bovinos zebuínos específicos e em geral para avaliar quaisquer alterações fisiológicas, patológicas ou metabólicas.

ABSTRACT The objective of the present study was to assess and create normal reference intervals for hematochemical profile of Cholistani cattle (n=360) being reared under pastoralism. The comparisons have been made with earlier published data on Bos indicus and taurus cattle breeds. The general health status of animals was ascertained through a thorough anamnesis from the livestock owners and clinical signs. However, theileriosis, in specific, was ruled out through blood smear examination. The animals were assigned in groups according to age: young (n=190; ≤12 months) and adult (n=170; >12 months up till 7 years); and gender: male (n=182) and female (n=178) cattle. The mean (±SE), median, range and reference intervals (25th to 95th percentile) for hematochemical profile were determined through descriptive statistics and differences between various groups were analyzed through Mann Whitney U test. The findings of this study may serve as reference hematochemical values for Cholistani cattle in specific and humped zebu cattle in general for assessing any physiological, pathological, or metabolic alterations.

Abstract This work aimed to associate sexual behavior with serum testosterone and the height of sensitive epithelium of vomeronasal organ (VNO) of Nellore bulls raised extensively and subjected to the VNO blocking during pre-puberty. Thirty-four bulls were divided into three groups. G1 (control group; n = 11): animals were kept intact; G2 (n = 10): animals had their incisive ducts bilaterally cauterized; G3 (n = 13): animals were bilaterally orchy-epiectomized. Five libido tests and blood sampling were performed in three months intervals from pre-puberty until sexual maturity. VNO were collected for histological evaluations by sacrificing the bulls weighting 480 kg. The experiment was conducted in a complete randomized design. No differences in libido among groups were observed in the first three tests. Attempt to mount, complete mount and the libido score increased at the fourth libido test only for the G1. Scenting and licking increased while the Flehmen reflex (FR) decreased at the fifth libido test for G2 and G3. Positive association between the FR and VNO sensitive epithelium height in G2 was observed. The olfactory stimuli entrance in the VNO is influenced by the Flehmen reflex, and that such organ plays a key role in the libido of Nellore bulls.

Resumo Objetivou-se avaliar o comportamento sexual e suas correlações com as concentrações séricas de testosterona e a altura do epitélio sensitivo do órgão vomeronasal (OVN) em machos Nelore (Bos taurus indicus), criados extensivamente e submetidos ao bloqueio do OVN na pré-puberdade. Foram utilizados 34 animais: G1-animais controle, denominados inteiros (n=11), G2-animais com os ductos incisivos bilateralmente cauterizados, denominados bloqueados (n=10) e G3-animais bilateralmente orquiepidectomizados, denominados castrados (n=13). Os animais foram avaliados a cada três meses até a maturidade sexual, sendo realizados cinco testes de libido e coletas de sangue. Foram abatidos os animais com 480 kg, onde foram obtidos os OVN, para avaliação histológica. O delineamento experimental foi inteiramente casualizado. Não houve diferenças (P>0,05) entre grupos nos primeiros três testes de libido. No quarto teste, houve aumento da tentativa de monta, monta completa e escore da libido apenas nos grupos dos inteiros (P<0,05). No quinto teste, houve aumento em cheirar e lamber e redução no reflexo de flehmen (RF) nos bloqueados e castrados (P<0,05). Observou-se alta associação entre o RF e altura do epitélio sensitivo do OVN nos bloqueados (r=0,75; P=0,05). Concluiu-se que a entrada dos estímulos olfatórios ao OVN é influenciada pelo RF e que este órgão exerce importante função no comportamento sexual em machos Nelore.

ABSTRACT Fasciolosis and paramphistomosis are a major health problem for the livestock economy worldwide. In Colombia, both distomatosis are reported in cattle, particularly in high Andean tropics, with annual economic losses close to COP 40 billion. The goal of this study was to determine the prevalence of fasciolosis and paramphistomosis in cattle from La Candelaria farm, Caucasia (Colombia), and the presence of intermediate host snails. A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out with non-probability convenience sampling. Stool samples were collected from the animals and the diagnosis was made using the modified Dennis technique. Digenea prevalence were determined according to sex, weight, age, and race. Freshwater snails were collected in the studied area and were identified by morphology. 400 and 66 fecal samples from 178 bovines of the Zebu (Bos indicus), BON (white-eared white) breeds and the cross between them were analyzed. Fasciola hepatica and Paramphistomidae were diagnosed with a prevalence of 2,2% and 30,9%, respectively. Coinfection was diagnosed in 1,1% of the cattle. Both trematodosis were most frequent in females (p = 0,03). Freshwater molluscs Ampullariidae, Physidae and Planorbidae without digenea larval stages were identified. It was concluded that dual-purpose cattle from La Candelaria farm are exposed to F. hepatica and Paramphistomidae and are probably infected on the farm grounds. Paramphistomidae was more prevalent than F. hepatica, which agrees with other studies in herds from the Colombian high Andean tropics. Paramphistomidae was found in all age groups.

RESUMEN En muchos países la fasciolosis y la paramfistomosis representan un grave problema para la salud del sector pecuario. En Colombia hay registros de ambas distomatosis en bovinos, la mayoría en el trópico alto andino, las cuales generan pérdidas econômicas anuales cercanas a 40 000 000 000 COP. El objetivo de esta investigación fue determinar la prevalencia de fasciolosis y paramfistomosis en vacunos de la hacienda La Candelaria, Caucasia (Colombia), y la presencia de caracoles hospederos intermediarios. Para cumplirlo, se realizó un estudio descriptivo de corte transversal con muestreo no probabilístico por conveniencia. Se recolectaron heces de los animales y se hizo el diagnóstico mediante la técnica modificada de Dennis. Se establecieron las prevalencias de los digeneos de acuerdo con el sexo, peso, edad y raza. Se recolectaron caracoles dulciacuícolas en la zona estudiada y se identificaron por morfologia. Se analizaron 466 muestras fecales de 178 bovinos, de las razas Cebú (Bos indicus), BON (blanco orejinegro) y del cruce entre ellas. Se diagnosticaron F. hepatica y Paramphistomidae con prevalencias del 2,2% y 30,9%, respectivamente. En el 1,1% de los vacunos se diagnosticó coinfección. Ambas trematodosis prevalecieron en las hembras (p = 0,03). Se identificaron moluscos dulciacuícolas Ampullariidae, Physidae y Planorbidae sin estadios larvarios de digeneos. Se concluyó que los bovinos de doble propósito de la hacienda La Candelaria están expuestos a F. hepatica y Paramphistomidae, y, probablemente, se infectan en los predios de la hacienda. Paramphistomidae es más prevalente que F. hepatica, lo cual concuerda con lo descrito en algunos estudios realizados en hatos del trópico alto andino colombiano. Paramphistomidae se encontró en todos los grupos etarios.