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    Research and characterization of Cryptosporidium spp. in the domestic cat (Felis catus): first description of C. felis in the state of Goiás and C. muris in the midwest region of Brazil
    (2025) Castaño Barrios, Leda Margarita; Paula, Lorrayne Honorio de; Bosso, Fernando Borges; Soares, Vando Edesio; Meireles, Marcelo Vasconcelos; Moraes, Dunya Mara Cardoso; Linhares, Guido Fontgalland Coelho; Reis, Jenner Karlisson Pimenta dos; Teixeira, Weslen Fabricio Pires; Jayme, Valéria de Sá
    With the increasingly close coexistence between pets and humans, coupled with reports of Cryptosporidium cross-infection between felines and their guardians, research aimed at understanding the epidemiology of these parasites in specific regions has become necessary. The principal objective of this study was to undertake a molecular characterization of Cryptosporidium in fecal samples from felines in the state of Goiás, Brazil (which is unprecedented for the region), and to assess the risk factors involved in the infection of these animals in the aforementioned locale. A total of 95 fecal samples were collected from domestic felines in the municipality of Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil. All the animals involved were categorized by sex (male or female), lifestyle (stray or domiciled), and age (under six months or six months and older). After collection, all fecal aliquots underwent genomic DNA extraction, followed by a nested PCR (nPCR) technique targeting the 18 s rRNA gene. Subsequently, sequencing of all amplified products was performed to diagnose Cryptosporidium parasites. In addition to searching for Cryptosporidium in feces, all felines underwent serological testing for Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) antibodies (IgG) using the Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). Of all the fecal samples analyzed, 17.9 % (17/95) tested positive for the presence of Cryptosporidium spp. DNA, with the variable "age under six months" being the only statistically significant risk factor (p ≤ 0.05) for feline infection. C. felis was the most prevalent species, identified in 88.2 % (15/17) of the positive samples. C. muris was the second most diagnosed species, confirmed in 5.9 % (1/17) of the positive samples. Of all the feline serological samples evaluated, 48.42 % (46/95) were positive for anti-FIV IgG. It was confirmed that 75 % (3/4) of all adult animals positive for Cryptosporidium showed positive (50.00 % [2/4]) or indeterminate (25.00 % [1/4]) results for FIV. This unprecedented study provides the first report of parasites from the genus Cryptosporidium in domestic felines in the state of Goiás, including the first report of C. felis in the state and of C. muris in Midwest Brazil.
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    Prevalência de eimeria spp. em aves: desafios e estratégias de controle sustentável
    (2025) Franzo, Vanessa Sobue; Vidotti, Alexandra Potenza; Piedade, Aline Regina; Mascarenhas, Lucas José Santos; Vulcani, Valcinir Aloisio Scalla
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    Avanços na tecnologia para diagnóstico e controle da coccidiose em aves: uma revisão do gênero eimeria
    (2025) Franzo, Vanessa Sobue; Vidotti, Alexandra Potenza; Piedade, Aline Regina; Oliveira, Leiny Paula de; Parazi, Yasmin Alves; Mascarenhas, Lucas José Santos; Vulcani, Valcinir Aloisio Scalla
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    Influence of ozonated water on solid ehrlich tumor induced in mice: clinical and anatomopathological study
    (2025) Araújo, Diego Pereira de; Nascente, Eduardo de Paula; Curcio, Juliana Santana de; Arnhold, Emmanuel; Lacerda, Elisângela de Paula Silveira; Matos, Moema Pacheco Chediak; Alves, Carlos Eduardo Fonseca; Moura, Veridiana Maria Brianezi Dignani de
    This study was based on clinical and anatomopathological evaluations of the solid Ehrlich tumor (SET) experimentally induced in mice, treated with different ozonized water protocols. A total of 198 animals were used, divided into four groups: two treated with ozonized water at concentrations of 5 ppm-5 mg/L (G1/N = 60) and 8 ppm-8 mg/L (G2/N = 60); a vehicle control group with physiological sodium chloride solution (G3/n = 60); and a negative control group (NCG/N = 18). Groups were further subdivided by administration route (intratumoral and peritumoral), number of ozonized water applications (one or two), and observation periods after applications (24 hours, five days, and 30 days). No differences were observed between groups in terms of behavioral changes, tumor volume, or survival rates. However, an increase in necrotic area was noted in all groups treated with ozonized water at 24 hours and in some groups at 30 days. Mitosis counts were lower in groups treated with a higher ozone concentration at both 24 hours and 30 days. It is concluded that treatment with ozonized water did not induce adverse clinical effects, promoting increased necrosis and reduced mitosis counts, suggesting a direct antineoplastic effect of medical ozone applied to this tumor type.
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    Hérnia incisional de grandes dimensões em uma mula - tratamento cirúrgico
    (2025) Moraes, Isadora David Tavares de; Nunes, Julia Paiva; Ribeiro, Henrique de Melo; Araujo, Michaella Fagundes; Costa, Maria Clara Oliveira; Franco, Leandro Guimarães; Noronha Filho, Antônio Dionísio Feitosa; Queiroz, Paulo José Bastos
    Background: Incisional hernias (IHs) are surgical complications resulting from failure of abdominal wall closure, allowing protrusion of the viscera without skin rupture. This prevalence of IHs is approximately 18% in equids following celiotomy and may be associated with surgical site infection, suture dehiscence, and increased intra-abdominal pressure. Most IHs require surgical repair via hernioplasty. However, postoperative complications are common. This case report describes a surgical procedure performed to correct a large abdominal IH in a mule. Case: A 12-year-old female mule (Pêga × Mangalarga Marchador), wheiging 368 kg, was attended with a large IH on the ventral midline that developed following an exploratory celiotomy for acute abdominal syndrome treatment. Evaluation of the hernia revealed a hernia ring approximately 35 cm in diameter, partially reducible content, and no signs of active inflammation. Ultrasonography demonstrated the viability of the intestinal loops and absence of adhesions. The surgi-cal treatment included primary hernioplasty without mesh implantation using alternating large-caliber polyamide and polyglycolic acid interrupted sutures. The surgical technique included an elliptical incision, blunt dissection of the hernia sac, debridement of the hernia ring, herniorrhaphy with tension-relieving sutures, and closure of the anatomical layers. Postoperative management included systemic antibiotic therapy with potassium, penicillin, and gentamicin, analgesia with flunixin meglumine, daily wound care, and application of a compressive abdominal bandage. On postoperative day 28, the animal was discharged with recommendations for continued use of a compression belt, strict stall rest for an additional 60 days, and a gradual return to physical activity. After full recovery, satisfactory cosmetic results and a restored quality of life were observed. Seventeen months after discharge, the owner was contacted via a messaging application and reported no recurrence of the hernia and full return of the animal to athletic activities without performance impairment.Discussion: IHs are complications that occur in 6-18% of horses and associated with factors, such as increased intra-abdominal pressure, suture technique failure, infections, and healing disorders. Presently, surgical site infection led to tissue fragility and suture dehiscence, resulting in an incisional hernia. Equids weighing > 300 kg are at a greater risk of complications, as observed in this case. Ultrasonography is essential for surgical planning, because it demonstrates the absence of adhesions and infections. For defect repair, simple interrupted sutures with tension-relieving stitches were used, as this technique reduces ischemia and allows for better distribution of tension along the hernia ring margins. For the suture material, large-caliber polyglycolic acid and polyamide were alternated to ensure sufficient support without excessive tension. Stall rest and abdominal bandaging are crucial for a successful treatment. Herniorrhaphy using simple interrupted sutures with tension-relieving stitches and alternating large-caliber polyglycolic acid and polyamide is a viable option for the treatment of IHs in mules.
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    Partial phallectomy and penile retroversion as a surgical approach for severe preputial laceration in a donkey (Equus asinus)
    (2025) Andrade, Letícia Paranhos Rios; Dutra, Helena Tavares; Ferreira, Jéssyca Ataíde; Silva, Jéssica Sola Quirino da; Bittar, Mariana Quinan; Queiroz, Paulo José Bastos
    Penile trauma in equines can cause injuries of varying severity, potentially leading to temporary or permanent dysfunction. In severe cases, various surgical techniques can be employed to restore the animal’s quality of life, such as partial phallectomy combined with penile retroversion. However, descriptions of the application of this technique in donkeys are lacking. This report describes the surgical treatment of a donkey with extensive preputial and penile laceration using the technique of partial phallectomy combined with penile retroversion. An 18-month-old intact male donkey presented with extensive preputial and penile lacerations, resulting in the complete rupture of the preputial lamina, permanent penile protrusion, tissue necrosis, and urethral rupture with urine leakage. The donkey underwent a partial phallectomy and penile retroversion after a 2-week preoperative period, which included debridement, dressings, and antibiotic therapy. The surgical procedure involved the creation of a perineal urethrostomy and partial penile amputation. Postoperative care included antibiotic and anti-inflammatory therapy, as well as local wound management. Postoperative complications included postmicturition hemorrhage and partial suture dehiscence. Despite these issues, a complete recovery was achieved, and the donkey was discharged after 56 days postsurgery. Four years later, the donkey was urinating normally without complications. Penile retroversion combined with partial phallectomy proves to be an effective surgical approach for treating extensive penile and preputial lacerations in donkeys, providing lasting results and long-term complication-free outcomes.
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    Peritoneo pericardial hernioplasty in a two-month-old Shih Tzu
    (2025) Ribeiro, Rafaela Rodrigues; Santo, Guilherme Pinheiro; Silva, Marco Augusto Machado; Silva, Cindy Stefhani dos Santos; Mendes, Tayanne Gobbi; Moura, Rauane Sousa de; Oliveira, Iago Martins
    Background: Peritoneopericardial hernias (PPHs) are defects of ccontnuity between the diaphragm and the peritoneum that allow the transposition of abdominal organs into the thoracic cavity, which can lead to clinical, gastroenterological, and respiratory problems such as vomiting, dyspneia and tachypnea. They can be congenital and patients can develop clinical signs at a young age, or can be diagnosed latter as incidental finding when no complications are developed. Furthermore, other malformations, like criptorquidism and cardiac interventricular communication can be present together with congenital HPP. Case Description: This article reports a case of PPH in association with ventricular septal defect (VSD) in a pediatric canine patient. The dog, a female Shih tzu with two months presented cyanosis, low weight, decreased body condition score (III/IX) and underdevelopment in comparison with other puppies of the same litter. At physical examination all parameters were whithin normal range, however there was a murmur at the base of the heart during auscultation, and echocardiographic examination displayed VSD. Due to the dyspnea, thoracic radiographic eexaminationwas performed and confirmed the suspicion of PPH. Peritoneopericardial hernioplasty was indicated for the two months old patient. During the surgical procedure, it was not necessary to enter the thoracic cavity in order to close the defect, and the suture was performed trough the abdominal cavity accessed in the sub-xiphoidal region. Even with the high risks of the procedure no intraoperative or anesthetic complications occurred. Conclusion: The hernioplasty was considered a success, the patient presented increased development, and body condition score improvement, with the surgical procedure resolving all signs of respiratory distress.
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    B-mode and Doppler ultrasound in the gastrointestinal evaluation of cats
    (2025) Sprícigo, Carolle Vieira Muterlle; Spricigo, José Felipe Warmling; Costa, Daniel Vieira; Oliveira, Iago Martins; Silva, Wanessa Patrícia Rodrigues da; Silva, Carolina Castro Lyra da; Costa, Ana Paula Araújo; Borges, Naida Cristina
    Ultrasound (USG) is a valuable diagnostic tool for evaluating the gastrointestinal tract of cats, providing noninvasive and dynamic information. B-mode USG allows evaluation of intestinal wall thickness, stratification, motility, and adjacent structures, such as lymph nodes and peritoneum. The stomach and intestinal segments can be differentiated based on their location, wall stratification, and relationships with surrounding organs. Normal ultrasound parameters, including gastric and intestinal wall thickness, peristaltic activity, and luminal content appearance, have been established for cats. Doppler ultrasound was used to assess vascular flow in the celiac and cranial mesenteric arteries and detect hemodynamic changes associated with gastrointestinal diseases. Alterations in flow velocity, resistivity index, and pulsatility index provide insights into vascular resistance and parenchymal function. Doppler velocimetry can also differentiate normal from pathological flow patterns, thereby aiding in the diagnosis of inflammatory, neoplastic, and ischemic conditions. Ultrasound findings of feline chronic enteropathy include wall thickening, loss of layering, and altered vascular supply. Lymphoplasmacytic enteritis and alimentary lymphoma, which are common in cats, present overlapping USG features, requiring histopathology for definitive diagnosis. Doppler alterations in the mesenteric arteries reflect gastrointestinal inflammation and ischemia, highlighting their potential as complementary diagnostic tools. Although B-mode and Doppler ultrasound are effective in identifying gastrointestinal abnormalities, further studies are needed to establish reference values and refine their clinical applications. The integration of these techniques enhances the noninvasive assessment of feline enteropathies and contributes to improved diagnosis and management. This review explores the use of B-mode and Doppler ultrasound for assessing the stomach and intestines in healthy and diseased felines.
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    Perosomus elumbis in an Aberdeen Angus calf associated with intrauterine infection with BVDV-1a
    (2025) Vildoza, Ana Laura; Schild, Carlos Omar; Colina, Leticia Maya Rodney; Boabaid, Fabiana Marques; Buroni, Florencia; Cresci, Karina; Riet-Correa, Franklin; Oliveira, Luiz Gustavo Schneider
    In a beef cattle breeding farm located in northern Uruguay, an Aberdeen Angus calf was born with complex anomalies. The offspring was sired by one of the bulls of the farm. The calf died shortly after birth, displaying multiple malformations at external examination, including agenesis of the lumbar, sacral and coccygeal vertebrae and spinal cord and arthrogryposis of both pelvic limbs, characteristic of perosomus elumbis (PE). At necropsy there was also brachygnathia and muscle atrophy of the pelvic limbs, along with underdeveloped small intestines, atresia ani, ectopia of the left kidney and hypoplasia of the contralateral, testicular fusion and cryptorchidism. Molecular studies of the fetal tissues revealed infection with Bovine Viral Diarrhea Virus (BVDV), an agent known for causing different malformations in cattle.
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    Gastrocnemius muscle rupture associated to selenium deficiency in beef cattle
    (2025) Marin, Raul Eduardo; Schild, Carlos Omar; Oliveira, Luiz Gustavo Schneider de; Sant, Carlos; Poppenga, Robert; Uzal, Francisco A.; Amaral, Franklin Riet Correa
    Three cases of gastrocnemius muscle rupture occurred in cattle. The first two cases (Cases 1 and 2) occurred in a herd of 128, 16–18-month-old crossbred steers in Argentina; the lesions were bilateral. A third case (Case 3) occurred in a herd of 20, 2-year-old crossbred heifers in Uruguay; the lesion was unilateral. The three animals showed the tarsal joints flexed at an ~ 90° angle and the metatarsal bone region was touching the ground along its entire length. Necropsy and histopathology were conducted on Cases 1 and 3. Grossly, the gastrocnemius muscles were torn and edematous. Microscopically, the two animals had polyphasic, multifocal muscle necrosis with proliferation of satellite cells and macrophage infiltration. In Case 3 the selenium liver concentration was 0.29 ppm DW; selenium concentration was not measured in Cases 1 and 2. The gross and microscopic changes, coupled with low concentration of selenium in one of the animals, suggests that the gastrocnemius rupture was consequence of nutritional myopathy associated with selenium deficiency.
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    Melatonin during pre-maturation and its effects on bovine oocyte competence
    (2025) Pimenta, Laryssa Ketelyn Lima; Kussano, Nayara Ribeiro; Chaves, José Eduardo Vieira; Amaral, Hallya Beatriz Sousa; Franco, Maurício Machaim; Spricigo, José Felipe Warmling; Dode, Margot Alves Nunes
    To minimize the deleterious effects of oxidative stress and improve oocyte competence, we assessed the impact of melatonin during in vitro pre-maturation (pre-IVM) in bovine cumulus–oocyte complexes (COCs). We compared three groups: control (conventional IVM), pre-IVM control (without melatonin), and pre-IVM + MTn (with melatonin). The analyses included levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), mitochondrial activity, oocyte lipid content, and the expression of genes related to oxidative stress and lipid metabolism in oocytes and cumulus cells. We also examined embryo quality by evaluating kinetics of development and gene expression. The pre-IVM + MTn group exhibited an increase (p ≤ 0.05) in ROS levels and a decrease (p ≤ 0.05) in lipid content, while maintaining mitochondrial activity similar (p > 0.05) to that of the control group. Regarding gene expression, the effect of pre-IVM, independent of melatonin, was characterized by a decrease in FABP3 transcripts in cumulus cells and reductions in GSS and NFE2L2 transcripts in oocytes (p ≤ 0.05). The pre-IVM + MTn group also displayed a decrease (p ≤ 0.05) in CAT and SOD2 transcript levels. In terms of embryonic development, the pre-IVM + MTn group achieved a higher blastocyst rate on D7 (p ≤ 0.05) compared to the control group (30.8% versus 25.8%), but with similar rates (p > 0.05) to the pre-IVM control group (30.8% versus 35.9%). However, there was a decrease in the levels of the PLAC8 transcript. This study indicates that, under the conditions tested, melatonin did not significantly benefit oocyte competence.
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    Effects of supplemental betaine isolated or in combination with soybean hulls on growth performance, body composition, and metabolic status of young growing pigs
    (2025) Lima, Valesca Ribeiro; Cardoso, Kallita Lourenço de Souza; Lacerda, Mariana Garcia de; Nuñez, Amoracyr José Costa; Schinckel, Allan Paul; Souza, Saimon de Souza e; Leite, Carla Daniela Suguimoto; Pascoal, Lívia Mendonça; Cesar, Aline Silva Mello ; Brito, Luiz Fernando
    To study the interaction between betaine (BET) and soybean hulls (SBH) on growth performance, body composition, and metabolic status of young growing pigs, 24 barrows with initial body weight (BW) of 29.51 ± 3.24 kg were allotted to one of four dietary treatments in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement with two levels of BET (0 and 1 g/kg) and SBH (0 and 150 g/kg) for 28 days. Pig BW and feed disappearance were recorded at 14-day intervals. Real-time ultrasonic measurements, as well as jugular blood samples, were obtained initially and on day 28 for all pigs. There was no SBH x BET interaction for growth responses. Pig growth was unaffected by BET supplementation. Dietary SBH addition decreased (P < 0.001) growth rate, as well as feed and energy intakes, which resulted in lighter pigs (P < 0.01) at the end of the study. The inclusion of BET in diets without SBH increased (P < 0.05) loin area and fat-free lean gain, whereas the dietary addition of SBH decreased (P ≤ 0.038) body protein and fat contents. Dietary BET supplementation did not impact the metabolic status of pigs, but feeding SBH increased globulin content (P = 0.039) and decreased albumin-to-globulin ratio (P = 0.023). In conclusion, adding supplemental BET to diets with SBH did not alter nutrient partitioning in young growing pigs, but feeding 150 g/kg SBH lead to slow growth rates and metabolic inefficiency.
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    Associations of transition cow metabolism with subsequent manifestation and intensity of estrous behavior in cyclic cows
    (2025) Madureira, Augusto M. L.; Van Dorp, Chantel; Madureira, Guilherme; Mion, Bruna; Chiu, Olivia; Burnett, Tracy Anne; Spricigo, José Felipe Warmling; Ribeiro, Eduardo de Souza
    This retrospective cohort study investigated the associations between transition cow metabolism and estrous behavior in 226 cyclic Holstein cows. Body weight, feed intake, and milk yield were monitored to calculate energy balance. Blood samples were collected on days −21, −14, −10, −7, −3, 0, 3, 7, 10, 14, 21, and 65 relative to calving. Following the second PGF2α injection of a Presynch program, cows were monitored for estrous behavior over an 11-day period using activity sensors. Estrus duration, peak activity, and area under the curve (AUC) were calculated from raw activity data. Cows not detected in estrus were grouped as no increase in activity (NIA; n = 90). Those detected in estrus were classified based on AUC as below (moderate increase in activity or MIA; n = 68) or above (large increase in activity or LIA; n = 68) the median. By design, AUC was 147 % greater, peak was 67 % higher, and duration was 74 % longer in LIA compared with MIA cows. Compared with NIA, cows that expressed estrus had higher body condition and lower serum concentrations of nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA; 0.43 vs. 0.49 ± 0.02 mmol/L), ceruloplasmin (49.9 vs. 52.9 ± 1.0 mg/L), superoxide dismutase (2.06 vs. 2.28 ± 0.06 U/mL), and peak haptoglobin. Among cows that expressed estrus, metabolic differences during the transition were limited to higher NEFA in LIA than in MIA cows (0.46 vs. 0.40 ± 0.02 mmol/L). These findings indicate that transition metabolism may influence the subsequent manifestation of estrous behavior in cyclic cows.
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    Single-port video-assisted laparoscopic ovariohysterectomy using operative endoscope or SILS™ device in dogs
    (2025) Tiosso, Caio de Faria; Voorwald, Fabiana Azevedo; Brun, Maurício Veloso; Barbosa, Bárbara Gonçalves; Antunes, Beatriz Ibrahim Miranda; Thiesen, Roberta Martins Crivelaro; Thiesen, Roberto; Silva, Marco Augusto Machado; Vicente, Wilter Ricardo Russiano
    Over the last few years, minimally invasive surgery has gained increasing recognition in various veterinary fields because of its advantages over conventional surgery. This progress has stimulated the development of new instruments with potential applications in veterinary medicine. This randomized controlled study was performed to evaluate two different single-port techniques for performing video-assisted ovariohysterectomy in female dogs, comparing them with the conventional approach. Thirty female dogs (n = 30) were evaluated and divided into 3 groups of 10 animals each: ovariohysterectomy by celiotomy, video-assisted laparoscopic ovariohysterectomy using a single-port operative endoscope, and laparoscopic ovariohysterectomy using the single-incision laparoscopic surgery device. The mean surgical time, complications, postoperative pain levels, and serum levels of C-reactive protein and interleukin-6 were assessed. Both video-assisted techniques demonstrated high feasibility and satisfactory clinical outcomes, although minor complications were observed (4 in the operative endoscope group and 3 in the single-incision laparoscopic surgery device group). The interleukin-6 and C-reactive protein levels peaked earlier, at 12 and 24 h postoperatively, respectively. The higher pain scores observed in animals undergoing ovariohysterectomy by celiotomy indicate that pain in ovariohysterectomy procedures is directly related to visceral manipulation and traction of the ovarian pedicle.
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    Effect of injection conditions on the efficiency of intrafollicular immature oocyte transfer (IFIOT)
    (2025) Nicolas, Ana Caroline Chaves Vall; Faria, Otávio Augusto Costa de; Borges, Marcelo Sant'Ana; Kussano, Nayara Ribeiro; Pivato, Ivo; Martins, Carlos Frederico; Spricigo, José Felipe Warmling; Dode, Margot Alves Nunes
    We investigated whether injection conditions affect the efficiency of intrafollicular immature oocyte transfer (IFIOT). Four types of needles (27G Gingival, 27G WTA, 27G Spinal, and 30G Gingival), two volumes of phosphate-buffered saline (PBS, 10 and 20 μL), and two quantities (25 and 50) of cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were tested using slaughterhouse ovaries. COCs were injected into follicles ≥10 mm and aspirated. Resistance during injection, reflux, and retention of COCs in the system, as well as recovery and denudation rates were evaluated. Based on these in vitro tests, the 27G Spinal needle with 10 μL were selected for in vivo evaluation using 25 (T25) or 50 (T50) COCs. Simultaneously, groups of 25–30 COCs were used for in vitro embryo production (IVP). After 9 days, uterine flushing was performed, and the diameter and cell number of the embryos produced via IFIOT and IVP were determined. The 10-μL volume was then compared with the previously used 60-μL volume. Data were analyzed using analysis of variance. The recovery rates of the structures and embryos were not affected (P > 0.05) by the quantity of COCs or the quality of injection. However, the 60-μL volume resulted in higher recovery rates of structures than did the 10-μL volume (P ≤ 0.05). The IFIOT and IVP embryos showed similar diameters and cell numbers (P > 0.05). We conclude that the 27G Spinal needle with a volume of approximately 60 μL is the most recommended for IFIOT.
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    Physiological oocyte maturation via intrafollicular transfer improves metabolic and molecular quality of bovine embryos
    (2026) Faria, Otávio Augusto Costa de; Kussano, Nayara Ribeiro; Moura, Amanda Oliveira; Faria, L. C.; Martins, L. P.; Spricigo, José Felipe Warmling; Franco, Maurício Machaim; Dode, Margot Alves Nunes
    In vitro maturation (IVM) has been widely used in bovine embryo production but is often associated with increased lipid accumulation and reduced cryotolerance. This study evaluated the intrafollicular transfer of immature oocytes (IFIOT) as an alternative oocyte maturation strategy, comparing it with conventional IVM in terms of embryo development, lipid metabolism, gene expression, cryosurvival, and DNA methylation. After maturation, oocytes were fertilized and cultured in vitro. Embryos were assessed for cleavage and blastocyst rates, lipid and mitochondrial content, total cell number, and survival after cryopreservation. Expanded blastocysts at Day 7 were transferred to synchronized recipients, and Day 14 embryos were collected for gene expression and methylation analyses. Cleavage and blastocyst rates were similar between groups (P > 0.05), but lipid content was significantly higher in IVM embryos (P < 0.05). Expression of PPARγ, a key transcription factor regulating lipid metabolism, was significantly higher in IVM-derived embryos (P < 0.0001), suggesting a more unbalanced metabolic profile compared to IFIOT. Mitochondrial activity and cell number did not differ. Overall cryosurvival was comparable; however, Day 8 IVM embryos showed reduced post-thaw survival relative to IFIOT (P < 0.05). DNA methylation levels in Satellite I and α-Satellite regions remained low in both groups, with no significant differences. These findings indicate that IFIOT supports oocyte maturation under more physiological conditions, leading to embryos with improved metabolic balance, reduced lipid accumulation, and enhanced cryotolerance. IFIOT may represent a valuable tool to optimize oocyte quality and increase the robustness of bovine in vitro embryo production systems.
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    Intrafollicular immature oocyte transfer (IFIOT) for in vivo maturation of vitrified bovine oocytes
    (2025) Chaves, José Eduardo Vieira; Nicolás, Ana Caroline Chaves Vall; Kussano, Nayara Ribeiro; Pimenta, Laryssa Ketelyn Lima; Silva, Venâncio Augusto Oliveira; Castro, Alice Caroline Souza e; Gomes, Ana Cristina Menezes Mendes; Melo, Leonardo de França e; Dode, Margot Alves Nunes; Spricigo, José Felipe Warmling
    Oocyte cryopreservation is fundamental for the advancement of reproductive biotechnologies, but its efficiency in cattle is limited. This study evaluated whether in vivo maturation through the intrafollicular immature oocyte transfer (IFIOT) can mitigate damage from vitrification. In a 2 × 2 design, fresh and vitrified oocytes were subjected to in vitro or in vivo maturation. Vitrified oocytes had lower metaphase II (MII) rates (P < 0.05) compared to fresh. However, in vivo maturation of vitrified oocytes increased MII rates (69.4 % vs. 45.7 %; P < 0.05) and reduced chromatin abnormalities (18.6 % vs. 33.7 %) compared to in vitro maturation. Electron microscopy revealed a higher incidence of vacuoles, damage, and disorganization of organelles in vitrified oocytes. The concentration of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was lower (P < 0.05) in vitrified and fresh oocytes matured in vivo compared to those in vitro matured. Vitrification impaired embryonic development, reducing cleavage rates on day 2 and blastocyst rates on days 6 and 7. Embryos from fresh oocytes matured in vivo exhibited larger diameters, higher cell numbers, and lower proportions of apoptotic cells. Iron-reducing antioxidant activity did not differ among groups in the in vitro maturation medium and follicular fluid. In conclusion, IFIOT in vitrified oocytes improved MII rates and reduced chromatin abnormalities but did not alter intraoocyte ROS levels nor improve embryonic development. In fresh oocytes, IFIOT was effective, reducing ROS and producing blastocysts with faster development and better quality. These findings suggest that IFIOT can partially mitigate nuclear damage caused by vitrification, but additional studies are needed to explore cytoplasmic protection strategies.
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    Comparison of post-thaw motility and in vitro fertility between ejaculated and epididymal semen, and seminal cfDNA characterization in pantaneiro bulls
    (2025) Carneiro, Marcos Coura; Castro, Alice Caroline Souza e; Silva, Roberta Reis; Chaves, José Eduardo Vieira; Silva, Venâncio Augusto Oliveira; Capobianco, Natalia Ernandes; Queiroz, Paulo José Bastos; Melo, Leonardo de França e; Barbosa, Eleonora Araújo; Dode, Margot Alves Nunes; Sprícigo, José Felipe Warmling
    This study evaluated the post-thaw motility and in vitro fertility of ejaculated and epididymal semen from Pantaneiro bulls and characterized cell-free DNA (cfDNA) in fresh seminal plasma. Semen from five bulls was collected via electroejaculation or post-mortem epididymal extraction. Fresh semen parameters and cfDNA concentrations were assessed before cryopreservation. Post-thaw sperm kinetics were evaluated using CASA at 0 and 6 h of incubation, and in vitro embryo development was analyzed following IVF. Data were assessed using ANOVA and logistic regression. Ejaculate samples exhibited more morphological defects than epididymal samples (15.8% vs. 1.8%, p ≤ 0.05). Post-thaw, epididymal semen showed higher total (87.2% vs. 32.4%) and progressive (67.1% vs. 14.4%) motility at 0 h (p ≤ 0.05), and higher motility at 6 h (38.9% vs. 11.0%, p ≤ 0.05). In vitro fertility did not differ significantly between ejaculated (n = 525 oocytes) and epididymal (n = 500 oocytes) semen groups in terms of cleavage (49.6% vs. 44.2%) and blastocyst formation on D7 (26.1% vs. 22.2%, p > 0.05). cfDNA concentration in fresh semen ranged from 11.4 to 50.9 ng/µL. These findings indicate that epididymal sperm from Pantaneiro bulls retain high post-thaw motility and fertility. Additionally, cfDNA characterization in seminal plasma contributes to indigenous cattle preservation and advances in male fertility research.
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    Does fluralaner (Exzolt® 5%) affect the enzootic stability of tick fever in beef calves subjected to strategic tick control in a tropical region?
    (2025) Aquino, Lídia Mendes de; Morais, Igor Maciel Lopes de; Salvador, Vanessa Ferreira; Leal, Luccas Lourenzzo Lima Lins; Ribeiro, Nathália Braz; Heller, Luciana Maffini; Tamiozo, Gabriel Lopes; Bittencourt, Raphaela Bueno Mendes; Lima, Nicolas Jalowitzki de; Ferreira, Lorena Lopes; Krawczak, Felipe da Silva; Nogueira, Rafael M. S.
    Background Little is known about the impact of fluralaner on herd enzootic stability regarding tick fever pathogens (TFPs). This study aimed to assess whether implementing strategic control of Rhipicephalus microplus using fluralaner could influence the enzootic stability of beef herds regarding TFPs on a farm where this compound had never been previously used. Methods One hundred Bos taurus indicus calves were divided into two groups of 50 animals each. One group underwent strategic tick control with pour-on fluralaner at 2.5 mg/kg (FLU), while the control group received a pour-on combination of fipronil 1.25 mg/kg + fluazuron 2.5 mg/kg (FIFLUA), a protocol used on the farm for 12 years. Calves were monitored from 25 to 241 days of age (weaning). During this period, in addition to acaricide treatments, tick counts and TFP diagnosis via indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (iELISA), quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), and blood smears were conducted in both groups. Results FIFLUA animals received four acaricide treatments at 25, 60, 135, and 188 days of age, with intervals of 35, 75, and 53 days. FLU animals received three acaricide treatments, at 25, 135, and 188 days of age, with intervals of 110 and 53 days. The average tick count in the FLU group was significantly lower than in the FIFLUA group at 60 days (Kruskal–Wallis, H = 97.85, df = 1, P < 0.0001) and 241 days (H = 18.12, df = 1, P < 0.0001). Anaplasma marginale bacteremia was lower in the FLU group at 60 days (H = 3.98, df = 1, P = 0.0459). Serologically, enzootic stability for Babesia bovis was achieved at 135 and 188 days in the FLU and FIFLUA groups, respectively. For B. bigemina, over 75% of calves in both groups showed antibodies at 60 and 188 days, respectively. For A. marginale, enzootic stability was reached at 188 days (FLU) and 241 days (FIFLUA). Conclusions Strategic tick control with fluralaner did not compromise the development of enzootic stability to B. bovis, B. bigemina, and A. marginale. Over 75% of FLU-treated calves showed seroconversion at 133, 60, and 188 days, respectively.
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    Survey of piroplasmids in wild mammals, unconventional pets, and ticks from Goiás state, midwestern Brazil
    (2025) Bittencourt, Raphaela Bueno Mendes; Calchi, Ana Cláudia; Neves, Lucianne Cardoso; Lima, Nicolas Jalowitzki de; Santos, Gabriel Cândido dos; Cardoso, Ennya Rafaella Neves; Paula, Warley Vieira de Freitas; Araújo, Luciana Batalha de Miranda; Gonçalves, Jessica Rocha; Sobreira, Elisângela de Albuquerque; Krawczak, Felipe da Silva
    Tick-borne piroplasmids are apicomplexan protozoa that infect a wide range of vertebrate hosts, with significant implications for animal and human health. This study investigated the occurrence and genetic diversity of piroplasmids in wild mammals, unconventional pets, and associated ticks in Goiás state, midwestern Brazil. Between April 2023 and January 2024, 105 blood samples, 22 tissue samples, and 300 ticks were collected from 21 mammalian species housed in wildlife screening centers, zoos, and veterinary clinics. Molecular screening targeting the 18S rRNA gene of piroplasmids detected a 25.7% (27/105) overall positivity, with gray brockets (Subulo gouazoubira) and South American tapirs (Tapirus terrestris) showing the highest infection rates. Three tick samples tested positive, including two Amblyomma sculptum nymphs and a male of Amblyomma dubitatum collected from a tapir and capybara (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris). Cytauxzoon brasiliensis was reported, for the first time, in cougars (Puma concolor) from Goiás state, midwestern Brazil, indicating the role of this feline as a host of this parasite. Babesia goianiaensis was confirmed in a capybara, and Theileria terrestris in tapirs. Phylogenetic analyses clustered gray brockets-associated Theileria sequences with Theileria sp. previously detected in Neotropical deer from Brazil and Theileria cervi. While the phylogenetic analysis of amino acid sequences of the cytochrome c oxidase subunit III separated Theileria genotypes detected in S. gouazoubira from T. cervi, hsp70-based phylogenetic inferences clustered the genotypes detected in Tapirus terrestris with Theileria terrestris, suggesting host-specific evolutionary lineages. These findings contribute to the understanding of Piroplasmida diversity and circulation in South American wild mammals, emphasizing the need for enhanced molecular surveillance to elucidate transmission dynamics, assess potential health risks, and contribute to the establishment of wildlife conservation and One Health strategies.