Taiwan cobra envenoming: serum venom concentration before and after specific treatment and relationship with debridement of necrotic wound tissue

Background: Bivalent freeze-dried neurotoxic (FN) antivenom has been the primary treatment since the 1980s for Taiwan cobra (Naja atra) envenomation in Taiwan. However, envenomation-related wound necrosis is a significant problem after cobra snakebites. In the present study, we analyzed the changes in serum venom concentration before and after antivenom administration to discover their clinical implications and the surgical treatment options for wound necrosis. Methods: The patients were divided into limb swelling and wound necrosis groups. The clinical outcome was that swelling started to subside 12 hours after antivenom treatment in the first group. Serum venom concentrations before and after using antivenoms were measured to assess the antivenom's ability to neutralize the circulating cobra venom. The venom levels in wound wet dressing gauzes, blister fluids, and debrided tissues were also investigated to determine their clinical significance. We also observed the evolutional changes of wound necrosis and chose a better wound debridement timing. Results: We prospectively enrolled 15 Taiwan cobra snakebite patients. Males accounted for most of this study population (n = 11, 73%). The wound necrosis group received more antivenom doses than the limb swelling group (4; IQR:2-6 vs 1; IQR:1-2, p = 0.05), and less records of serum venom concentrations changed before/after antivenom use (p = 0.0079). The necrotic wound site may release venom into circulation and cause more severe envenomation symptoms. Antivenom can efficiently diminish limb swelling in cobra bite patients. However, antivenom cannot reduce wound necrosis. Patients with early debridement of wound necrosis had a better limb outcome, while late or without debridement may have long-term hospital stay and distal limb morbidity. Conclusions: Antivenom can efficiently eliminate the circulating cobra venom in limb swelling patients without wound necrosis. Early debridement of the bite site wound and wet dressing management are suggestions for preventing extended tissue necrosis and hospital stay.(AU)

Lesão traumática facial em cão - reconstrução cirúrgica com retalho de transposição rotacional / Facial traumatic injury in a dog - surgical reconstruction with rotational transposition flap

Background: Bite injuries are commonly found in small animal clinics, especially in male dogs, due to their habits of fighting and territorial disputes. In general, the lesions are treated with the use of compresses and bandages, however, it is extremely important to carefully evaluate the site, in order to carry out the appropriate treatment. In cases of tissue loss, an increasingly used practice is reconstructive surgery, which launches alternatives for treatment through flaps and skin grafts, promoting healing and satisfactory aesthetic repair. This report describes the case of a dog with a facial bite, treated with reconstructive surgery. Case: A 5-year-old male mixed-breed dog, with a body mass of 5 kg, was treated and submitted to a physical examination, due to the owner's complaint that he had been attacked by another dog, causing a bite on the face. On physical examination, the animal showed normal vital parameters, except for mild hyperthermia due to rectal temperature (39.5°C). On the face, it was possible to observe a lacerative lesion in the temporomandibular and masseteric regions, with loss of skin and muscle, in addition to having an aspect of infection and necrosis. To describe the hematological profile, a blood count was performed, showing no changes. In the biochemical tests, the present alteration was a slight increase in Alkaline Phosphatase (393.8 IU/L). Surgical treatment was indicated through facial reconstruction with a skin graft. After performing the antisepsis, the lesion was debrided, the edges were regularized and the injured tissue was curetted. For reconstruction of the defect, we used a flap obtained through a perpendicular incision at the base of the ear, in a caudal direction, and this flap was pulled and transposed over the wound. Flap synthesis was performed with 3-0 nylon thread. After surgery, a compressive bandage was performed, which was removed after 24 h. It was indicated to avoid exertion in the area and to return in 10 days for the evaluation of the surgery and removal of the stitches. Discussion: Traumatic injuries in animals are being increasingly reported, with male and non-neutered dogs being the most prevalent patients. This report is in line with other studies, with the patient's profile being a male dog, with an average age, in line with the literature. In general, in certain types of wounds, the affected animals can develop sepsis and even progress to death, however, in this case the patient did not show changes in vital parameters and in hematological tests. Reconstructive surgeries are performed with the aim of correcting skin defects and knowledge of the available techniques is important. It is also necessary to carry out a good planning, in order to avoid complications in the trans and postoperative period. In the present case, we chose to use a flap obtained through an incision perpendicular to the base of the ear, transposing it over the wound, in addition to relieving tissue tension through skin divulsion, increasing its elastic potential. The use of bandages is considered extremely important for the success of the surgical procedure, as it provides an efficient barrier against infections, trauma and adhesions. However, we emphasize the need to use ointments, gauzes and bandages concomitantly, in order to have the desired success in the postoperative period. In addition to proper surgical techniques, pain management and infection control are important for patient recovery. It is important to use non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and opioids to obtain analgesia, in addition to antibiotic therapy before and after surgery. The reported case demonstrated that lesions in dogs with skin loss can be reconstructed using skin flaps, with an excellent recovery and good prognosis, as was the case with the patient in this report.

Glutamine ameliorates Bungarus multicinctus venom-induced lung and heart injury through HSP70: NF-κB p65 and P53/PUMA signaling pathways involved

Background: Bungarus multicinctus is one of the most dangerous venomous snakes prone to cardiopulmonary damage with extremely high mortality. In our previous work, we found that glutamine (Gln) and glutamine synthetase (GS) in pig serum were significantly reduced after Bungarus multicinctus bite. In the present study, to explore whether there is a link between the pathogenesis of cardiopulmonary injury and Gln metabolic changes induced by Bungarus multicinctus venom. We investigated the effect of Gln supplementation on the lung and heart function after snakebite. Methods: We supplemented different concentrations of Gln to mice that were envenomated by Bungarus multicinctus to observe the biological behavior, survival rate, hematological and pathological changes. Gln was supplemented immediately or one hour after the venom injection, and then changes in Gln metabolism were analyzed. Subsequently, to further explore the protective mechanism of glutamine on tissue damage, we measured the expression of heat-shock protein70 (HSP70), NF-κB P65, P53/PUMA by western blotting and real-time polymerase in the lung and heart. Results: Gln supplementation delayed the envenoming symptoms, reduced mortality, and alleviated the histopathological changes in the heart and lung of mice bitten by Bungarus multicinctus. Additionally, Gln increased the activity of glutamine synthetase (GS), glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH) and glutaminase (GLS) in serum. It also balanced the transporter SLC7A11 expression in heart and lung tissues. Bungarus multicinctus venom induced the NF-κB nuclear translocation in the lung, while the HO-1 expression was suppressed. At the same time, venom activated the P53/PUMA signaling pathway and the BAX expression in the heart. Gln treatment reversed the above phenomenon and increased HSP70 expression. Conclusion: Gln alleviated the glutamine metabolism disorder and cardiopulmonary damage caused by Bungarus multicinctus venom. It may protect lungs and heart against venom by promoting the expression of HSP70, inhibiting the activation of NF-κB and P53/PUMA, thereby delaying the process of snake venom and reducing mortality. The present results indicate that Gln could be a potential treatment for Bungarus multicinctus bite.

Comparing modified Lee and White method against 20-minute whole blood clotting test as bedside coagulation screening test in snake envenomation victims

Abstract Background: Twenty-minute whole blood clotting test (20WBCT) and Modified Lee and White (MLW) method are the most routinely employed bedside tests for detecting coagulopathic snake envenomation. Our study compared the diagnostic utility of MLW and 20WBCT for snakebite victims at a tertiary care hospital in Central Kerala, South India. Methods: This single-center study recruited 267 patients admitted with snake bites. 20WBCT and MLW were performed simultaneously at admission along with the measurement of Prothrombin Time (PT). The diagnostic utility of 20WBCT and MLW was determined by comparing the sensitivity (Sn), specificity (Sp), positive and negative predictive values, likelihood ratios, and accuracy at admission with an INR value > 1.4. Results: Out of 267 patients, 20 (7.5%) patients had VICC. Amongst those who had venom-induced consumption coagulopathy (VICC), MLW was prolonged for 17 patients, (Sn 85% 95% confidence interval [CI]: 61.1-96.0) whereas 20WBCT was abnormal for 11 patients (Sn 55%, 95% CI: 32.04-76.17). MLW and 20WBCT were falsely positive for the same patient (Sp 99.6%, 95% CI: 97.4-99.9%). Conclusion: MLW is more sensitive than 20WBCT to detect coagulopathy at the bedside amongst snakebite victims. However, further studies are necessary for standardizing bedside coagulation tests in snakebite cases.

A oxigenoterapia hiperbárica veterinária integrada ao tratamento da necrose tecidual e osteomielite em cão: relato de caso / Veterinary hyperbaric oxygen therapy integrated to the treatment of tissue necrosis and osteomyelitis in a dog: case report

Na rotina veterinária, as lesões nas extremidades dos membros são constantes e representam um desafio especial pelas características anatômicas, susceptibilidade de exposição óssea e limitações de reparos e reconstruções quando comparado a outras regiões do corpo. A osteomielite, decorrente de mordeduras, tem alta prevalência e sua rápida evolução pode levar a medidas drásticas, como a amputação. Neste trabalho, é relatada a utilização da oxigenoterapia hiperbárica como terapia integrativa ao tratamento convencional e a avaliação de seus efeitos durante as 12 sessões realizadas em uma cadela vítima de mordedura, que apresentava necrose e exposição óssea com colonização por Staphylococcus sp e Pasteurella multocida. A avaliação evolutiva do quadro foi elaborada a partir de registro fotográfico da lesão, com escala, a cada três sessões e submetido à análise morfométrica por software analítico. A velocidade da marcha cicatricial revelou que a utilização desta terapia propiciou precocidade e efetiva atuação na cicatrização e no combate à osteomielite, evitando a amputação do restabelecendo as liberdades da paciente, contribuindo ao aprofundamento do emprego da oxigenoterapia hiperbárica na Medicina Veterinária.(AU)

In the veterinary routine, injuries in the extremities of the limbs are constant and represent a special challenge due to the anatomical characteristics, susceptibility of bone exposure and limitations of repairs and reconstructions when compared to other regions of the body. Osteomyelitis resulting from bites is highly prevalent and its rapid evolution can lead to drastic measures such as amputation. This work describes the use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy as an integrative therapy to conventional treatment and the evaluation of its effects during the 12 treatments performed in a female dog victim of a bite, that presented evolution to necrosis and bone exposure with colonization by Staphylococcus sp e Pasteurella multocida. The evolutionary assessment of the condition was elaborated from a photographic record of the lesion, with scale, every three treatments and submitted to morphometric analysis by analytical software. The speed of the healing gait demonstrated, that the use of this therapy proved precocity and effective action in healing and in the fight against osteomyelitis, avoiding the amputation of the limb, restoring the patient's freedoms. Thus contributing to the deepening on the use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy in veterinary medicine.(AU)

A utilização da moxabustão como terapia na cicatrização por segunda intenção em cães: Relato de dois casos / The use of moxibustion as a healing therapy by secondary intention in dogs: report of two cases

A terapia com moxabustão envolve combustão de uma mistura de ervas, composta predominantemente por Artemisia vulgaris. Pode ser aplicada em diversas patologias sendo de grande utilidade para cicatrização de tecidos. O objetivo deste artigo foi abordar o uso da moxabustão em dois cães com feridas contaminadas, em que os tratamentos foram destinados a promover a cicatrização por segunda intenção. É descrito o caso de uma cadela da raça pastor-alemão com deiscência de pontos (caso 1) e o de uma cadela sem raça definida com ferida traumática por mordedura (caso 2). Nos dois casos, o tratamento com a moxabustão, modalidade da Medicina Tradicional Chinesa (MTC), foi efetivo no tratamento das feridas por segunda intenção, melhorando os aspectos de oxigenação, circulação e revitalização de tecidos. Após dois anos no caso 1, o tecido apresenta-se pigmentado e alopécico; no caso 2, a epiderme encontra-se queratinizada, uniforme e com presença de pelos, em menor dimensão há tecido pigmentado.(AU)

Moxibustion therapy involves burning a mixture of herbs, consisting predominantly of Artemisia vulgaris. It can be applied in several pathologies and is very useful for tissue healing. The aim of this article was to present the use of Moxibustion in two dogs with contaminated wounds, whose treatment aimed to achieve healing by second intention. It is presented the case of a German Shepherd dog with dehiscence of points (case 1) and one of a mixed breed dog with traumatic wound by bite (case 2). In both cases, the treatment with Moxibustion, a modality of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine, demonstrated effectiveness in the treatment of wounds by secondary intention, improving aspects of oxygenation, circulation and tissue revitalization. After two years in case 1 the tissue is pigmented and alopecic; in case 2 the epidermis is keratinized, uniform and with the presence of hairs, in a smaller dimension there is pigmented tissue.(AU)

Knowledge, attitude and practices regarding dengue and its vector among medical practitioners in Malakand region, Pakistan

Abstract Dengue fever (DF) is increasingly recognized as one of the worlds major mosquito borne diseases and causes significant morbidity and mortality in tropical and subtropical countries. Dengue fever is endemic in most part of Pakistan and continues to be a public health concern. Knowledge, attitude and practices can play an important role in management of the disease. Current study was aimed to determine the level of knowledge, attitude and practices regarding dengue fever among health practitioners, to study the level of knowledge and attitude with preventive practices for dengue fever. A cross sectional study was carried out in medical practitioners of the four districts of Malakand region during October to November 2019. A pre-structured questionnaire was used to collect data from medical practitioners. Data was analyzed using Graph Pad version 5. Significant value was considered when less than 0.05 (at 95% confidence of interval). The results revealed that most of participants have seen dengue vector (62%), the media being the most quoted source of information. Nearly 81.2% participants were aware from transmission of dengue fever is by mosquito bite. Practices based upon preventive measures were found to be predominantly focused towards prevention of mosquito bites rather than elimination of breeding places. Although the knowledge regarding DF and mosquito control measure was quite high among the medical practitioners but this knowledge was not put into practice. Further studies are required to aware the people about dengue and its vector in order to get prevention and control.

Resumo A dengue (DF) é cada vez mais reconhecida como uma das principais doenças transmitidas por mosquitos do mundo e causa significativa morbidade e mortalidade em países tropicais e subtropicais. A dengue é endêmica na maior parte do Paquistão e continua a ser um problema de saúde pública. Conhecimento, atitude e práticas podem desempenhar papel importante no manejo da doença. O presente estudo teve como objetivo determinar o nível de conhecimento, atitude e práticas em relação à dengue entre os profissionais de saúde, para estudar o nível de conhecimento e atitude com as práticas preventivas da dengue. Um estudo transversal foi realizado com médicos dos quatro distritos da região de Malakand de outubro a novembro de 2019. Um questionário pré-estruturado foi usado para coletar dados de médicos. Os dados foram analisados no Graph Pad versão 5. Valor significativo foi considerado quando menor que 0,05 (com intervalo de confiança de 95%). Os resultados revelaram que a maioria dos participantes já viu o vetor da dengue (62%), sendo a mídia a fonte de informação mais citada. Quase 81,2% dos participantes sabiam que a transmissão da dengue é por picada de mosquito. Constatou-se que as práticas baseadas em medidas preventivas se concentravam predominantemente na prevenção de picadas de mosquitos, e não na eliminação de criadouros. Embora o conhecimento sobre DF e medidas de controle de mosquitos fosse bastante elevado entre os médicos, esse conhecimento não foi colocado em prática. Mais estudos são necessários para conscientizar a população sobre a dengue e seu vetor, a fim de se obter prevenção e controle.

Diel feeding activity of Abudefduf saxatilis (Perciformes: Pomacentridae) on southwestern Atlantic reefs

Feeding ecology studies are crucial for understanding energy flow in reef ecosystems. In this study, we used an integrative approach to investigate the diel-feeding ecology of the sergeant-major Abudefduf saxatilis. To examine the possibility of diel-periodicity and size-class differences in foraging behaviour, we tracked fish individuals until their first bite on two subtropical reefs. During each observation, we recorded the substratum that was bitten and estimated the individual's total length. To assess the diet, we analysed the stomach contents of five individuals from each location. In total, we observed 2,703 individuals biting seven substrates. Our results showed no significant differences in substrate use for diel-periodicity. However, we found significant differences between two size classes. Despite this, both populations tended to forage near the surface in the water column in the morning and on the benthos in the afternoon, although this tendency was not statistically significant. Smaller individuals fed mostly in the water column, while larger individuals foraged on all substrates, likely due to their different energetic demands. Our findings indicate this species has an omnivorous, generalist diet, comprising 12 items from both benthos and plankton. The lack of differences in diel-periodicity is likely due to the sergeant-major's opportunistic behaviour.

Estudos de ecologia alimentar são cruciais para entender o fluxo de energia em ecossistemas recifais. Neste estudo, usamos uma abordagem integrativa para investigar a ecologia alimentar do sargentinho Abudefduf saxatilis. Para responder se há periodicidade ou diferenças relacionadas a classes de tamanho no substrato forrageado, acompanhamos indivíduos deste peixe até a primeira mordida, em dois recifes subtropicais. Durante cada observação, registramos o substrato mordido e estimamos o comprimento total do indivíduo. Para estudar a sua dieta, analisamos o conteúdo estomacal de cinco indivíduos em cada recife. No total, observamos 2.703 indivíduos mordendo em sete substratos diferentes. Nossos resultados não mostraram diferenças significativas no uso de substrato para a periodicidade diária. No entanto, encontramos diferenças significativas entre duas classes de tamanho. Apesar disso, ambas as populações tenderam a forragear próximo à superfície na coluna d'água pela manhã e no substrato bentônico à tarde, embora essa tendência não tenha sido estatisticamente significativa. Indivíduos menores forragearam principalmente na coluna d'água, enquanto os indivíduos maiores forragearam em todos os tipos de substratos, provavelmente devido às suas diferentes demandas energéticas. Nossos resultados corroboram que o sargentinho tem uma dieta onívora e generalista, composta por 12 itens de ambos os compartimentos, bentônico e planctônico. A falta de diferenças na periodicidade diária é provavelmente devido ao comportamento oportunista do sargentinho.

Knowledge, attitude and practices regarding dengue and its vector among medical practitioners in Malakand region, Pakistan / Conhecimento, atitude e práticas em relação à dengue e seu vetor entre médicos na região de Malakand, Paquistão

Dengue fever (DF) is increasingly recognized as one of the world's major mosquito borne diseases and causes significant morbidity and mortality in tropical and subtropical countries. Dengue fever is endemic in most part of Pakistan and continues to be a public health concern. Knowledge, attitude and practices can play an important role in management of the disease. Current study was aimed to determine the level of knowledge, attitude and practices regarding dengue fever among health practitioners, to study the level of knowledge and attitude with preventive practices for dengue fever. A cross sectional study was carried out in medical practitioners of the four districts of Malakand region during October to November 2019. A pre-structured questionnaire was used to collect data from medical practitioners. Data was analyzed using Graph Pad version 5. Significant value was considered when less than 0.05 (at 95% confidence of interval). The results revealed that most of participants have seen dengue vector (62%), the media being the most quoted source of information. Nearly 81.2% participants were aware from transmission of dengue fever is by mosquito bite. Practices based upon preventive measures were found to be predominantly focused towards prevention of mosquito bites rather than elimination of breeding places. Although the knowledge regarding DF and mosquito control measure was quite high among the medical practitioners but this knowledge was not put into practice. Further studies are required to aware the people about dengue and its vector in order to get prevention and control.

A dengue (DF) é cada vez mais reconhecida como uma das principais doenças transmitidas por mosquitos do mundo e causa significativa morbidade e mortalidade em países tropicais e subtropicais. A dengue é endêmica na maior parte do Paquistão e continua a ser um problema de saúde pública. Conhecimento, atitude e práticas podem desempenhar papel importante no manejo da doença. O presente estudo teve como objetivo determinar o nível de conhecimento, atitude e práticas em relação à dengue entre os profissionais de saúde, para estudar o nível de conhecimento e atitude com as práticas preventivas da dengue. Um estudo transversal foi realizado com médicos dos quatro distritos da região de Malakand de outubro a novembro de 2019. Um questionário pré-estruturado foi usado para coletar dados de médicos. Os dados foram analisados no Graph Pad versão 5. Valor significativo foi considerado quando menor que 0,05 (com intervalo de confiança de 95%). Os resultados revelaram que a maioria dos participantes já viu o vetor da dengue (62%), sendo a mídia a fonte de informação mais citada. Quase 81,2% dos participantes sabiam que a transmissão da dengue é por picada de mosquito. Constatou-se que as práticas baseadas em medidas preventivas se concentravam predominantemente na prevenção de picadas de mosquitos, e não na eliminação de criadouros. Embora o conhecimento sobre DF e medidas de controle de mosquitos fosse bastante elevado entre os médicos, esse conhecimento não foi colocado em prática. Mais estudos são necessários para conscientizar a população sobre a dengue e seu vetor, a fim de se obter prevenção e controle.

Twenty-five-centimeter pre-grazing canopy height in palisade grass and forage peanut

ABSTRACT: Short-term grazing behavior variables are sensitive to the canopy structure and have an impact on daily forage intake. This study evaluated the effect of pre- and post-grazing canopy heights on the forage harvesting process at a patch scale in a mixture of Brachiaria brizantha (Hochst. ex A. Rich.) Stapf. syn. Urochloa brizantha R.D. Webster cv. Marandu (palisade grass) and Arachis pintoi Krapov. & W.C. Greg. cv. Belomonte (forage peanut). Treatments were allocated to a split-plot arrangement in a completely randomized design. The plots, in their entirety, consisted of two pre-grazing canopy heights: 25 cm (CH25) and 35 cm (CH35); subplots consisted of three levels of defoliation severity: no defoliation (DS0); 20% depletion of pre-grazing canopy height (DS20); and 40% depletion of pre-grazing canopy height (DS40), with eight replications. Heifers were allowed to graze the patches (0.7 × 0.7 m) and their grazing behavior was recorded. Canopy structure measurements were taken both before and after grazing. Patches from CH35 presented greater stem mass for grass (p = 0.001) and legume (p = 0.002) than did patches from CH25. Bite rate, bite mass and instantaneous intake rate were greater for CH25 than for CH35 (p 0.001, p = 0.068, and p = 0.074), and bite mass and instantaneous intake rate were lower for DS20 compared to DS0 (p = 0.032 and p = 0.016). Greater stem mass in the grazing strata negatively influenced the instantaneous intake rate.

Assessment of occlusal ridges in premolar teeth before and after dental treatment in equines / [Avaliação das cristas oclusais de dentes pré-molares antes e após o tratamento dental em equinos]

Occlusal ridges of equines appeared in the evolutionary process of the species to increase its capacity of grazing and trituration. The difference in hardness of dental tissues (cementum, dentin, and enamel) and masticatory pressure on the occlusal surface of the hypsodont tooth promote the appearance of sharp occlusal ridges. The aim of this study was to measure and compare the height of the occlusal ridges (HOR) of the fourth premolar (Triadan 408) before and after odontoplasty. Ten Mangalarga Marchador mares aged 5 to 12 years, under extensive management, were evaluated by measuring the HOR in Triadan 408, using plaster models before, immediately after (D0), 15 days (D15) and 50 days (D50) after odontoplasty. Immediately after the procedure the HOR was only 21.9% of the HOR before the occlusal equilibration; however, in 15 days after odontoplasty, 65.9% of HOR was already reestablished and 80.3% after 50 days of the procedure. HOR in the buccal side resurfaced before the lingual HOR, suggesting a higher masticatory pressure of these buccal points. Results of the present study indicate that 15 days after the dental treatment, equines already have food trituration capacity, since HOR is apparent on the occlusal surface of the premolars that underwent odontoplasty.

Cristas oclusais de equinos surgiram no processo evolutivo da espécie para aumentar sua capacidade de pastejo e trituração. A diferença na dureza dos tecidos dentários (cemento, dentina e esmalte) e a pressão mastigatória na superfície oclusal do dente hipsodonte promovem o aparecimento de cristas oclusais afiadas. O objetivo deste estudo foi medir e comparar a altura das cristas oclusais (HOR) do quarto pré-molar (Triadan 408) antes e após a odontoplastia. Dez éguas Mangalarga Marchador de cinco a 12 anos, sob manejo extensivo, foram avaliadas pela mensuração da HOR no Triadan 408, utilizando-se modelos de gesso antes, imediatamente após (D0), 15 dias (D15) e 50 dias (D50) após a odontoplastia. Imediatamente após o procedimento, a HOR era de apenas 21,9% da HOR antes do equilíbrio oclusal; entretanto, em 15 dias após a odontoplastia, 65,9% da HOR já estava restabelecida e 80,3% após 50 dias do procedimento. HOR na face vestibular ressurgiu antes da HOR lingual, sugerindo maior pressão mastigatória nestes pontos vestibulares. Os resultados do presente estudo indicam que 15 dias após o tratamento odontológico, os equinos já apresentam capacidade de trituração dos alimentos, uma vez que a HOR é aparente na superfície oclusal do pré-molar que foi submetido à odontoplastia.

Guidelines for the diagnosis and differential diagnosis of snakebite envenoming of ruminants in Brazil / Diretrizes para o diagnóstico e diagnóstico diferencial de envenenamento por picadas de cobra em ruminantes no Brasil

In Brazil, snakebites are often cited as a cause of mortality in ruminants, but there are discrepancies in the literature regarding its actual prevalence, either by lack of diagnosis or by mistakes in the differential diagnosis. Among the factors that hinder the diagnosis are included the inconsistencies to distinguish between accidents caused by Bothrops and Crotalus, responsible for over 90% of the cases. For the diagnosis of accidents involving Lachesis muta, both the neurotropic and the proteolytic/hemolytic effects must be considered, similar to what is described in Crotalus scutulatus. This article describes the main clinical, pathological, and laboratory findings observed in envenoming by the aforementioned snakes and suggests procedures for establishing the diagnosis and differential diagnosis starting from a logical sequence, based on epidemiological evidence, clinical, laboratory, and pathological findings.

No Brasil, acidentes ofídicos são frequentemente citados como causa de mortalidade em ruminantes, mas existem discrepâncias em relação a sua atual prevalência, seja por falta de diagnóstico ou por erros no diagnóstico diferencial. Entre os fatores que dificultam o diagnóstico estão as inconsistências para distinguir entre os acidentes causados por Bothrops e Crotalus, responsáveis por mais de 90% dos casos. Para o diagnóstico de envenenamentos por Lachesis muta, devem ser considerados os efeitos neurotrópico e proteolítico/hemolíticos concomitantes, a exemplo do que ocorre com algumas cascavéis norte-americanas (Crotalus scutulatus, entre elas). Este artigo descreve os principais achados clinicopatológicos e laboratoriais observados em casos de envenenamento pelas serpentes citadas e sugere um roteiro simplificado para o estabelecimento do diagnóstico e diagnóstico diferencial, a partir de uma sequência lógica, baseada em evidências epidemiológicas e achados clínicos, laboratoriais e patológicos.

Human parasitism by the exotic tick Dermacentor variabilis (Parasitiformes: Ixodida) in Brazil: report of an imported case / Parasitismo humano pelo carrapato exótico Dermacentor variabilis (Parasitiformes: Ixodida) no Brasil: relato de um caso importado

Abstract In June 2012, a tick was found parasitizing a man in the city of São Paulo, who had recently returned from a visit to Pennsylvania, in the northeast of the United States. The tick was removed and sent to the São Paulo State Department of Health, where it was identified as a male of the species Dermacentor variabilis (Say, 1821), according to the literature and taxonomic keys. The tick was subjected to a PCR test to search for rickettsiae, but the result was negative. The fact that a human entered Brazilian territory unaware that he was parasitized by a hard tick not belonging to the national tick fauna is significant because of the possibility that an exotic species could be introduced and take hold in this country. Another major risk to public health is that this arthropod could be infected with the bacterium Rickettsia rickettsii, as this ectoparasite is the main vector of Spotted Fever on the East Coast of North America.

Resumo Em junho de 2012, foi enviado ao serviço da Secretaria de Estado da Saúde de São Paulo um carrapato que foi encontrado em parasitismo sobre um homem adulto na cidade de São Paulo, que havia chegado recentemente de uma viagem de turismo aos Estados Unidos, onde visitou o estado da Pensilvânia, situado na região Nordeste Americana. O carrapato foi identificado como um macho da espécie Dermacentor variabilis, (Say, 1821), de acordo com a literatura e chaves taxonômicas, sendo submetido ao teste da PCR para pesquisa de riquétsias, porém o resultado foi negativo. O fato de um ser humano ter cruzado a fronteira do Brasil, parasitado, sem o seu prévio conhecimento, por um carrapato duro, não pertencente à ixodofauna nacional, é de grande importância pela chance de introdução e estabelecimento no território brasileiro de uma espécie exótica. Outro grande risco para a saúde pública é que esse artrópode poderia estar infectado com a bactéria Rickettsia rickettsii, pois esse ectoparasito é o principal vetor da Febre Maculosa na costa Leste Norte Americana.

Pre-copulatory bite wounds as evidence of aggressive competition for mating in the neotropical freshwater stingray Potamotrygon motoro / Lesões por mordidas pré-copulatórias como evidência de competição agressiva para acasalar na raia de água doce neotropical Potamotrygon motoro

Reproductive aspects of Amazonian freshwater stingrays are still poorly studied, however, it is known that the copulatory behavior in some species is related to the hydrometric seasons (high and low water). In order to assess the reproductive activity prior to copulation, we examined bite wounds in Potamotrygon motoro of Catalão Lake, in Amazonas state, Brazil. Specimens of both sexes showed wounds on the pectoral fins. Males presented a large amount of bite wounds, distributed randomly throughout the body, while females had more bite wounds on the posterior region. The higher number of wounds in males is assumed to indicate aggressive interactions among males in competition for females, caused by attempts to prevent other males from mating with the target female. The behavior is likely owed to the confinement of the stingrays in the lake during the low-water period.(AU)

Os aspectos reprodutivos das raias de água doce ainda são pouco estudados, no entanto, sabe-se que algumas espécies apresentam comportamento de cópula relacionado com as estações hidrométricas (águas altas e baixas). Com o intuito de avaliar as atividades reprodutivas que antecedem a cópula, nós examinamos as lesões por mordidas em Potamotrygon motoro do Lago Catalão, Amazonas. Espécimes de ambos os sexos apresentaram lesões nas nadadeiras peitorais. Os machos apresentaram uma maior quantidade de mordidas distribuídas aleatoriamente por todo o corpo, enquanto as fêmeas apresentaram mais lesões de mordidas na região posterior. Acreditamos que o maior número de lesões nos machos indica interações agressivas entre os machos em competição por fêmeas, causada por tentativas de impedir outros machos de acasalar com a fêmea alvo. Tal comportamento provavelmente deve-se ao confinamento das raias no lago durante o período de águas baixas.(AU)

Retrospective analysis of dog bites in Southern Italy / Análise retrospectiva de mordidas de cães no sul da Itália

Dog bite is one of the major public health problems involving people worldwide. Although, several studies have investigated this phenomenon in different countries, little information about the incidence of dog bite episodes in Italy is available. We analysed data about dog biting events between 2010 and 2019 provided by the CRIUV, the Regional Reference Centre for Veterinary Urban Hygiene in the largest city of Southern Italy, namely. Naples. We observed severe and profound inconsistencies in the data collection that reveal structural and significant weaknesses of the current data collection system. Given the multifactorial nature of dog bite, we highlight the need to improve the gathering of all the information related to the factors affecting the occurrence of biting episodes for an accurate assessment of the biting phenomenon.

A mordida de cães é um dos maiores problemas de saúde pública que envolve pessoas em todo o mundo. Embora vários estudos tenham investigado esse fenômeno em diferentes países, poucas informações sobre a incidência de episódios de mordidas por cães na Itália estão disponíveis. Analisamos dados sobre eventos de mordidas de cães entre 2010 e 2019 fornecidos pelo CRIUV, Centro de Referência Regional para Higiene Veterinária Urbana na maior cidade do sul da Itália, Nápoles. Observamos inconsistências graves e profundas na coleta de dados que revelam fragilidades estruturais e significativas do sistema de coleta de dados atual. Dada a natureza multifatorial da mordida canina, destaca-se a necessidade de melhorar a coleta de todas as informações relacionadas aos fatores que afetam a ocorrência de episódios de mordida para uma avaliação precisa deste fenômeno.

Twenty-five-centimeter pre-grazing canopy height in palisade grass and forage peanut

Short-term grazing behavior variables are sensitive to the canopy structure and have an impact on daily forage intake. This study evaluated the effect of pre- and post-grazing canopy heights on the forage harvesting process at a patch scale in a mixture of Brachiaria brizantha (Hochst. ex A. Rich.) Stapf. syn. Urochloa brizantha R.D. Webster cv. Marandu (palisade grass) and Arachis pintoi Krapov. & W.C. Greg. cv. Belomonte (forage peanut). Treatments were allocated to a split-plot arrangement in a completely randomized design. The plots, in their entirety, consisted of two pre-grazing canopy heights: 25 cm (CH25) and 35 cm (CH35); subplots consisted of three levels of defoliation severity: no defoliation (DS0); 20% depletion of pre-grazing canopy height (DS20); and 40% depletion of pre-grazing canopy height (DS40), with eight replications. Heifers were allowed to graze the patches (0.7 × 0.7 m) and their grazing behavior was recorded. Canopy structure measurements were taken both before and after grazing. Patches from CH35 presented greater stem mass for grass (p = 0.001) and legume (p = 0.002) than did patches from CH25. Bite rate, bite mass and instantaneous intake rate were greater for CH25 than for CH35 (p < 0.001, p = 0.068, and p = 0.074), and bite mass and instantaneous intake rate were lower for DS20 compared to DS0 (p = 0.032 and p = 0.016). Greater stem mass in the grazing strata negatively influenced the instantaneous intake rate.

Babesiose: um ponto de vista diagnóstico: relato de caso / Babesiosis: a diagnostic point of view - case report

A babesiose canina é uma doença transmitida pela picada de carrapatos, como o Rhipicephalus sanguineus, vetor de Babesia vogeli, um hemoprotozoário de extrema importância na Medicina Veterinária. Esse protozoário parasita os eritrócitos, levando a uma hemólise. O animal infectado pode apresentar febre, letargia, anorexia, anemia, mucosas pálidas ou ictéricas, hematúria e hepatoesplenomegalia. O diagnóstico presuntivo da babesiose canina pode se basear em histórico, anamnese ou exame físico, porém a confirmação é obtida por meio do exame parasitológico. Durante o atendimento, um cão, macho, cinco anos, boxer, apresentou apatia, hiporexia, hematúria, hipertermia. Para confirmação de diagnóstico foram solicitados os exames complementares: hemograma, alanina aminotransferase e creatinina. A única alteração encontrada foi diminuição de plaquetas, porém no esfregaço sanguíneo foram observadas estruturas de Babesia sp. livres e parasitando hemácias.(AU)

Canine babesiosis is a disease transmitted through tick bites, such as Rhipicephalus sanguineus, vector of Babesia vogeli, a hemoprotozoan of extreme importance in Veterinary Medicine. This protozoan parasites erythrocytes leading to hemolysis. The infected animal may have fever, lethargy, anorexia, anemia, pale or jaundiced mucous membranes, hematuria and hepatosplenomegaly. The presumptive diagnosis of babesiosis can be based on history, anamnesis or physical examination, but the confirmation is obtained through parasitological examination. During the service, a male dog, five years old, boxer, presented apathy, hyporexia, hematuria, hyperthermia. To confirm the diagnosis, a complete blood count, alanine aminotransferase and creatinine were requested. The only alteration found was a decrease in platelets, however, in the blood smear, Babesia sp. were detected free and parasitizing red blood cells.(AU)

Bothrops envenomation in dogs: local and systemic manifestations

Background: Snakebite envenoming is a condition that affects humans and domestic animals worldwide. Identification of the snake species involved in the envenomation is infrequent. Bothrops envenomation presents typical clinicopathological features. This report describes epidemiological, clinical, and pathological data of 2 cases of Bothrops envenomation in dogs, including the first case of Bothrops moojeni snake striking a domestic animal in Brazil. Cases: Case 1. A dog was witnessed to have a Bothrops moojeni snakebite on a farm. In the first 24 h, acute lameness, pain, diffuse swelling, focal bleeding at the left forelimb, and increased whole-blood clotting time were observed in the envenomed dog. Polyvalent antivenom was administered in addition to fluid therapy, analgesics, corticosteroids, and antibiotics. On the 5th day, the animal presented spontaneous bleeding at the wound site, thrombocytopenia, and increased whole-blood clotting time. An additional dose of polyvalent antivenom was administered, and local treatment at the snakebite site was initiated. After 13 days, the dog showed no clinical or laboratory changes and recovered entirely. Case 2. A mongrel dog was taken for a necropsy to determine the cause of death. Grossly, major findings included swelling in the nasal plane that extended to the neck and dissecting hemorrhage in the subcutaneous tissue and adjacent musculature. Hemorrhages were observed in the heart, parietal pleura, left forelimb, lumbar region, and perirenal tissue. Marked necrosis and disruption of small blood vessels and lymphatics within the deep dermis and subcutaneous tissue were the main microscopic findings close to the snakebite site. Additionally, degeneration and necrosis of muscle fibers and dissecting hemorrhage were observed in the head and neck tissues surrounding the snakebite site. Kidneys showed marked interstitial hemorrhage and acute tubular nephrosis. Discussion: Bothrops envenoming is characterized by local (hemorrhage, dermonecrosis, and myonecrosis) and systemic (coagulative disorders, systemic hemorrhage, and acute kidney injury) changes due to the effect of the main venom components such as phospholipase A2 and metalloproteinases. These changes are hallmarks for the bothropic envenomation, supporting the diagnosis in cases 1 and 2. In case 1, the dog developed a Bothrops moojeni snakebite envenomation, but the immediate treatment with antivenom allowed a favorable outcome. In case 2, gross and microscopic findings supported the presumptive diagnosis of fatal bothropic envenomation. A marked local reaction such as swelling, pain, bleeding, bruising, and tissue necrosis was observed in case 1. In case 2, the most significant local changes were swelling and edema at the head and neck, hemorrhage in the subcutaneous tissue, and adjacent musculature. Systemic effects were observed clinically as spontaneous bleeding, thrombocytopenia, increased whole-blood clotting time (Case 1), systemic hemorrhages, and acute tubular nephrosis (Case 2). A proper treatment probably prevented the development of acute renal failure in Case 1. Herein, we show the first case of accidental snakebite envenomation by B. moojeni in a dog in Brazil. Information is scarce on the identification of venomous snake species striking domestic animals. Fast detection of well-determined clinical and pathological findings of Bothrops envenomation is essential for a correct diagnosis, therapeutics, and a good prognosis, even in cases with an unknown history.

Twenty-five-centimeter pre-grazing canopy height in palisade grass and forage peanut

Short-term grazing behavior variables are sensitive to the canopy structure and have an impact on daily forage intake. This study evaluated the effect of pre- and post-grazing canopy heights on the forage harvesting process at a patch scale in a mixture of Brachiaria brizantha (Hochst. ex A. Rich.) Stapf. syn. Urochloa brizantha R.D. Webster cv. Marandu (palisade grass) and Arachis pintoi Krapov. & W.C. Greg. cv. Belomonte (forage peanut). Treatments were allocated to a split-plot arrangement in a completely randomized design. The plots, in their entirety, consisted of two pre-grazing canopy heights: 25 cm (CH25) and 35 cm (CH35); subplots consisted of three levels of defoliation severity: no defoliation (DS0); 20% depletion of pre-grazing canopy height (DS20); and 40% depletion of pre-grazing canopy height (DS40), with eight replications. Heifers were allowed to graze the patches (0.7 × 0.7 m) and their grazing behavior was recorded. Canopy structure measurements were taken both before and after grazing. Patches from CH35 presented greater stem mass for grass (p = 0.001) and legume (p = 0.002) than did patches from CH25. Bite rate, bite mass and instantaneous intake rate were greater for CH25 than for CH35 (p < 0.001, p = 0.068, and p = 0.074), and bite mass and instantaneous intake rate were lower for DS20 compared to DS0 (p = 0.032 and p = 0.016). Greater stem mass in the grazing strata negatively influenced the instantaneous intake rate.

Achados post mortem em cães intoxicados por picadas de abelhas / Post mortem findings in dogs intoxicated by bee stings

As intoxicações por picadas de abelhas possuem grande relevância na medicina humana e veterinária. Os componentes da toxina apresentam ações lesivas aos tecidos, principalmente aos rins, e podem culminar com a morte, mesmo quando a dose inoculada é pequena. A identificação precoce desse tipo de intoxicação permite a implementação de medidas terapêuticas adequadas e a melhoria do prognóstico. Desta forma, o presente estudo foi desenvolvido com o objetivo de relatar os achados anatomopatológicos observados em dois cães, sem raça definida, os quais foram vítimas fatais de picadas de abelhas. Os animais eram irmãos de ninhada, um macho e uma fêmea, com três anos de idade e com cerca de 30kg. Os cães foram encontrados mortos no período da noite, já em rigor mortis, o que conduziu à suspeita de que a morte havia ocorrido há, no máximo, cinco horas. As principais lesões macroscópicas observadas foram: petéquias cutâneas, algumas associadas à presença de ferrões; congestão generalizada; hemorragia; necrose e edema; assim como insetos com morfologia compatível com Apis mellifera dispersos no trato gastrointestinal. Microscopicamente, degeneração, necrose e hemorragias renais constituíram os achados de maior importância, além de acentuado edema pulmonar, ao qual foi atribuída a causa mortis. Assim, as alterações mais importantes neste tipo de intoxicação são necrose, hemorragia, edema e congestão. Além disso, o óbito pode ocorrer de forma rápida, mesmo com baixas doses da toxina.

Bee sting poisonings have great relevance for both human and veterinary medicine. The toxin components present harmful actions on tissues, especially on kidneys, and can lead to death, even when the inoculated dose is small. The early identification of this type of intoxication allows the implementation of appropriate therapeutic measures and improvement of the prognosis. Thus, the present study aimed to report the anatomopathological findings of two mixed-breed dogs, which were fatal victims of bee stings. The animals were litter brothers, one male and one female, with three years old and weighing about 30kg. The dogs were found dead at night, already in rigor mortis, which led to the suspicion that the death had occurred no more than five hours ago. The main macroscopic lesions were: cutaneous petechiae, some of them associated with bee stingers, generalized congestion, haemorrhage, necrosis, and oedema, as well as insects with morphology compatible with Apis mellifera dispersed in the gastrointestinal tract. Microscopically, degeneration, necrosis, and renal haemorrhages were the most relevant findings, in addition to marked pulmonary oedema, which was considered the causa mortis. Thus, the most important alterations in this type of intoxication are necrosis, haemorrhage, oedema, and congestion. Moreover, death can occur quickly, even with low doses of the toxin.