Molecular survey of hemotropic mycoplasmas in crab-eating raccoons (Procyon cancrivorus) in southern Brazil / Levantamento molecular de micoplasma hemotrópico em mão-pelada (Procyon cancrivorus) do sul do Brasil

Hemoplasmas are non-cultivable bacterial parasites of erythrocytes that infect domestic and wild animals, as well as humans. Their means of transmission and pathogenesis remain contentious issues and difficult to evaluate in wild animals. Procyon cancrivorus is a South American carnivore and occurs in all Brazilian biomes. In this study, we aimed to investigate occurrences of hemoplasmas infecting P. cancrivorus and to identify their 16S rRNA gene, in southern Brazil. DNA was extracted from spleen and blood samples of P. cancrivorus (n = 9) from different locations. Hemoplasma DNA was detected in six samples, based on 16S rRNA gene amplification and phylogenetic analysis. Four of the six sequences belonged to the "Mycoplasma haemofelis group", which is closely related to genotypes detected in Procyon lotor from the USA; one was within the "Mycoplasma suis group", closely related to "Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum"; and one was within the intermediate group between these clusters. Thus, these sequences showed that the molecular identity of hemoplasmas in the population studied was very variable. In five positive animals, Amblyomma aureolatum ticks and a flea (Ctenocephalides felis felis) were collected. The present study describes the first molecular detection of mycoplasmas in P. cancrivorus.(AU)

Os micoplasmas hemotrópicos (hemoplasmas) são parasitas bacterianos não-cultiváveis de eritrócitos que infectam tanto animais domésticos e selvagens, como seres humanos. A transmissão e a patogênese são discutíveis e difíceis de avaliar em animais selvagens. O mão pelada (Procyon cancrivorus) é um carnívoro Sul-americano, que ocorre em todos os biomas brasileiros. O objetivo do presente estudo é o de investigar a ocorrência de hemoplasmas infectando P. cancrivorus e identificar seu gene 16S rRNA no Sul do Brasil. O DNA foi extraído do baço e amostras de sangue de P. cancrivorus (n= 9). O DNA de hemoplasma foi detectado em seis amostras, com base na amplificação do gene 16S rRNA e na análise filogenética. Quatro das seis sequências pertencem ao "Grupo Mycoplasma haemofelis", que estão intimamente relacionadas aos genótipos detectados no Procyon lotor dos EUA; uma dentro do "Grupo Mycoplasma suis", que está intimamente relacionado ao "Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum", e uma dentro do grupo intermediário entre esses clusters, mostrando assim que há uma diversidade genética de hemoplasmas na população estudada. Em cinco animais positivos, foram coletados carrapatos Amblyomma aureolatum e uma pulga Ctenocephalides felis. O presente estudo traz a primeira detecção molecular de micoplasmas em P. cancrivorus.(AU)

Optimal foraging of Neotropical otters (Carnivora: Mustelidae) in an urban river and predominance of generalist and sedentary fish in their diet

Lontra longicaudis Olfers, 1818 is a semi-aquatic carnivore widely distributed in the Neotropical region. Understanding their diet contributes to an indirect understanding of their ecology and the composition of the local fauna. To this end, we analyzed 109 fecal samples and identified 238 morphological structures; these samples were collected between May 2006 and September 2007 from the Santa Lúcia Biological Station (SLBS) in southeastern Brazil. The area is intersected by the Timbuí River, which arrives at the site after crossing the urban perimeter of the city of Santa Teresa in the state of Espírito Santo. We found a predominance of fish in the otters' diets (82%), mainly cichlids (50%), which are fish with sedentary habits and low mobility levels. The crustacean Trichodactylus fluviatilis Latreille, 1828 was the third most consumed taxon; this occurred mainly during the rainy season, corresponding to the crustacean's reproductive period, when it is more vulnerable to predation. Otters exhibited a seasonal variation in their prey selectivity. Furthermore, they displayed opportunistic foraging behavior, as the most preyed fish were those with both low mobility and a high frequency in the environment, followed by fish with high mobility and high frequency, and then those with low mobility and low frequency. We concluded that the feeding habits of the otters in the SLBS are in line with the optimal foraging theory since prey selection was optimized through the balance between net energy gained and the energy costs of foraging.

Molecular characterization of carnivore protoparvovirus strains circulating in cats in Turkey / Caracterização molecular de cepas de protoparvovírus carnívoros circulantes em gatos na Turquia

Cats are susceptible to feline panleukopenia virus (FPV) and canine parvovirus type 2 (CPV-2). Therefore, coinfection and superinfection with multiple parvovirus strains may occur, resulting in high heterogeneity and recombination. Considering the importance of cats as a potential source of genetic diversity for parvoviruses, we investigated the frequency of parvovirus infection in cats using their blood and fecal samples and performed molecular characterization of parvovirus strains circulating in cat populations. Accordingly, the fecal and blood samples of 60 cats with gastroenteritis symptoms were collected from Turkey's Burdur, Isparta, and Izmit provinces. Of these 15 fecal samples tested as parvovirus-positive by PCR, 14 were confirmed to have been infected with true FPV strains by sequencing analysis. Through the phylogeny analysis, those were located in the FPV cluster, closely related to CPV-2, and one was discriminated in the CPV-2b cluster. Additionally, sequence analysis of the VP2 gene of CPV and FPV revealed that the FPV strains detected in Turkey and the vaccine strains were highly related to each other, with a nucleotide identity of 97.7- 100%. Furthermore, 13 variable positions were detected in VP2 of the field and reference FPV strains. Three synonymous mutations were determined in the VP2 gene. Some amino acid mutations in the VP2 protein-affected sites were considered responsible for the virus's biological and antigenic properties. The partial sequence analysis of the VP2 gene revealed that four FPV strains detected in Turkey have a single nucleotide change from T to G at the amino acid position 384 between the nucleotides 3939-3941, which was reported for the first time. Therefore, these four isolates formed a different branch in the phylogenetic tree. The results suggest that both FPV and CPV-2b strains are circulating in domestic cats in Turkey and cats should be considered as potential sources of new parvovirus variants for cats, dogs and other animals.

Os gatos são suscetíveis ao vírus da panleucopenia felina (FPV) e ao parvovírus canino tipo 2 (CPV-2). Portanto, coinfecção e superinfecção com múltiplas cepas de parvovírus podem ocorrer, resultando em alta heterogeneidade e recombinação. Considerando a importância dos gatos como uma fonte potencial de diversidade genética para parvovírus, investigamos a frequência da infecção por parvovírus em gatos usando suas amostras de sangue e fezes e realizamos a caracterização molecular de cepas de parvovírus circulantes nas populações de gatos. Amostras fecais e de sangue de 60 gatos com sinais de gastroenterite foram coletadas nas províncias de Burdur, Isparta e Izmit, na Turquia. Destas, 15 amostras fecais testaram positivas para parvovírus por PCR e 14 foram confirmadas como infectadas com cepas verdadeiras de FPV por análise de sequenciamento. Através da análise filogenética, aqueles foram localizados no agrupamento FPV que está intimamente relacionado com o CPV-2, e um foi discriminado no agrupamento CPV-2b. Além disso, a análise da sequência do gene VP2 de CPV e FPV revelou que as cepas de FPV detectadas na Turquia e as cepas vacinais eram altamente relacionadas entre si, com uma identidade de nucleotídeos de 97,7-100%. Além disso, 13 posições variáveis foram detectadas em VP2 das cepas de campo e FPV de referência. Três mutações sinônimas foram determinadas no gene VP2. Algumas mutações de aminoácidos nos locais afetados pela proteína VP2 foram consideradas responsáveis pelas propriedades biológicas e antigênicas do vírus. A análise da sequência parcial do gene VP2 revelou que quatro cepas de FPV detectadas na Turquia têm uma única mudança de nucleotídeo de T para G na posição do aminoácido 384 entre os nucleotídeos 3939-3941, o que foi relatado pela primeira vez. Portanto, esses quatro isolados formaram um ramo diferente na árvore filogenética. Os resultados sugerem que ambas as cepas FPV e CPV-2b estão circulando em gatos domésticos na Turquia e os gatos devem ser considerados como fontes potenciais de novas variantes de parvovírus para gatos, cães e outros animais.

Feeding strategy of the introduced Astronotus crassipinnis (Cichlidae) in upper Paraná river floodplain

ABSTRACT The cichlid Astronotus crassipinnis (Heckel, 1840) known as oscar or apaiari is native to the Amazon basin and presents an omnivorous feeding habit, with a tendency to carnivory. The species was introduced in the upper Paraná River floodplain, where the trophic strategies adopted by the species are not well-known. The objective of this study was to characterize the diet of A. crassipinnis in different size classes to identify ontogenetic differences in diet composition and to determine its feeding behavior in the invaded floodplain. In addition, we experimentally compared the feeding behavior of A. crassipinnis with Hoplias sp. 2, a native piscivorous. We evaluated the predation rate of the two species with different prey (fish and shrimp). Astronotus crassipinnis consumed items from several trophic levels in the juvenile stage, characterizing an omnivore feeding. In the adult stage, A. crassipinnis displayed a specialist strategy in which fish and mollusks dominated the diet. Under controlled conditions, A. crassipinnis consumed more shrimp than Hoplias sp. 2. The preference for shrimp during the experiment contrasted to its feeding in natural environments, showing the potential trophic plasticity of A. crassipinnis. The piscivorous habit in the invaded environment can be considered a trophic strategy of A. crassipinnis, which feeds on an abundant resource in the upper Paraná River floodplain. In conclusion, the ontogenetic diet shifts and the trophic opportunism of the carnivore adults can be the strategies used by the species to invade and settle the floodplain. The piscivorous strategy of A. crassipinnis may impact fish biodiversity, altering ecosystem functioning.

RESUMO Astronotus crassipinnis (Heckel, 1840), conhecido como oscar ou apaiari, é nativo da bacia Amazônica e apresenta hábito alimentar onívoro, com tendência à carnivoria. A espécie foi introduzida na planície de inundação do alto rio Paraná, onde as estratégias tróficas adotadas pela espécie não são bem conhecidas. O objetivo deste estudo foi caracterizar a dieta de A. crassipinis em diferentes classes de comprimento para identificar diferenças ontogenéticas na composição da dieta e determinar seu comportamento alimentar na planície de inundação invadida. Em adição, nós comparamos experimentalmente o comportamento alimentar de A. crassipinnis com Hoplias sp. 2, um piscívoro nativo. Avaliamos a taxa de predação das duas espécies com presas diferentes (peixes e camarões). Astronotus crassipinnis consumiu itens de diferentes níveis tróficos no estágio juvenil, caracterizando uma alimentação onívora. No estágio adulto, A. crassipinnis apresentou uma estratégia especialista em que peixes e moluscos dominaram a dieta. Em condições controladas, A. crassipinnis consumiu mais camarões que Hoplias sp. 2. A preferência por camarão durante o experimento em contraste com sua alimentação em ambientes naturais evidencia a alta plasticidade trófica de A. crassipinnis. O hábito piscívoro no ambiente invadido pode ser considerado uma estratégia trófica de A. crassipinnis, que se alimenta de um recurso abundante na planície do alto Rio Paraná. Em conclusão, as mudanças ontogenéticas na dieta e o oportunismo trófico dos adultos podem ser as estratégias utilizadas pela espécie para invadir e colonizar a planície de inundação. A estratégia piscívora de A. crassipinnis pode impactar a biodiversidade de peixes, alterando o funcionamento do ecossistema.

Morphometry and skeletopy of kidneys and renal vessels in "ring-tailed coati" (Nasua nasua) / Morfometria e esqueletopia dos rins e vasos renais no "quati de cauda anelada" (Nasua nasua)

Nasua nasua is a carnivore belonging to the family Procyonidae and is widely distributed throughout South America. The details of its anatomy are fundamental to the application of antomy and understanding of its natural history. This study aimed to measure the average length, width, thickness, and volume of the kidneys; the average length of the renal artery and vein, and to describe the renal and vessel skeletopy in Nasua nasua. For this purpose, 32 kidneys and renal vessels of 16 cadaveric specimens (eight male and eight female) were dissected and measured using a digital caliper. Pearson's correlation coefficients were calculated between the rostrum-sacral length and the renal and vessel variables. The kidneys had a "bean-shaped" aspect with smooth surfaces and were unipapilate. On average, the N. nasua kidneys measured 30 × 16 × 13 mm, with no significant difference between the sexes. The average right renal artery (1.74 ± 0.67 cm) was longer than the left (1.26 ± 0.43 cm), and the right renal vein (1.22 ± 0.34 cm) was shorter than the left renal vein (1.82 ± 0.46 cm) (p < 0.05). One male animal (6.8%) presented with a double right renal vein as an anatomical variation. Both the right and left kidney cranial poles prevailed at the level of the L2 vertebra, assuming a practically symmetrical position. There was a positive and moderate to high correlation between rostrum-sacral length and renal dimensions and renal vessel lengths. The present data may be useful for interpreting the diagnosis of nephropathies that affect renal dimensions in this species and may contribute to the comparative anatomy of carnivorans.(AU)

Nasua nasua é um carnívoro da família Procyonidae amplamente distribuído pela América do Sul. Detalhes de sua anatomia são fundamentais para a anatomia aplicada e o entendimento de sua história natural. Objetivou-se determinar a média do comprimento, largura, espessura e volume elipsoide dos rins, a média do comprimento das artérias e veias renais e revelar a esqueletopia dos rins e vasos renais em N. nasua. Para este propósito, 32 rins e os vasos renais de 16 espécimes cadavéricos (oito machos e oito fêmeas) foram dissecados e mensurados com um paquímetro digital. Os coeficientes de correlação linear de Pearson foram calculados entre o comprimento rostro-sacral e as variáveis dos rins e seus vasos. Os rins apresentaram formato de "feijão" e superfícies lisas e são unipapilados. Na média, os rins de N. nasua mediram 30x16x13 mm, sem diferença significativa entre antímeros ou sexos. O comprimento médio da artéria renal direita (1,74 ± 0,67 cm) foi maior que o da esquerda (1,26 ± 0,43 cm); o comprimento da veia renal direita (1,22 ± 0,34 cm) foi menor que o da esquerda (1,82 ± 0,46 cm) (p < 0,05). Em um macho (6,8%), foi identificada uma veia renal direita dupla como variação anatômica. Os polos craniais dos rins direito e esquerdo prevaleceram ao nível da vértebra L2, assumindo praticamente uma posição simétrica. Houve uma correlação positiva, moderada a elevada, entre o comprimento rostro-sacral com as dimensões renais e com o comprimento dos vasos renais. Os dados do presente estudo poderão vir a ser aplicados na interpretação do diagnóstico de nefropatias que cursam com alterações nas dimensões renais bem como contribuir no campo da anatomia comparada de carnívoros.(AU)

Feeding strategy of the introduced Astronotus crassipinnis (Cichlidae) in upper Paraná river floodplain / Estratégia alimentar do introduzido Astronotus crassipinnis (Cichlidae) na planície de inundação do alto rio Paraná

The cichlid Astronotus crassipinnis (Heckel, 1840) known as "oscar" or "apaiari" is native to the Amazon basin and presents an omnivorous feeding habit, with a tendency to carnivory. The species was introduced in the upper Paraná River floodplain, where the trophic strategies adopted by the species are not well-known. The objective of this study was to characterize the diet of A. crassipinnis in different size classes to identify ontogenetic differences in diet composition and to determine its feeding behavior in the invaded floodplain. In addition, we experimentally compared the feeding behavior of A. crassipinnis with Hoplias sp. 2, a native piscivorous. We evaluated the predation rate of the two species with different prey (fish and shrimp). Astronotus crassipinnis consumed items from several trophic levels in the juvenile stage, characterizing an omnivore feeding. In the adult stage, A. crassipinnis displayed a specialist strategy in which fish and mollusks dominated the diet. Under controlled conditions, A. crassipinnis consumed more shrimp than Hoplias sp. 2. The preference for shrimp during the experiment contrasted to its feeding in natural environments, showing the potential trophic plasticity of A. crassipinnis. The piscivorous habit in the invaded environment can be considered a trophic strategy of A. crassipinnis, which feeds on an abundant resource in the upper Paraná River floodplain. In conclusion, the ontogenetic diet shifts and the trophic opportunism of the carnivore adults can be the strategies used by the species to invade and settle the floodplain. The piscivorous strategy of A. crassipinnis may impact fish biodiversity, altering ecosystem functioning.

Astronotus crassipinnis (Heckel, 1840), conhecido como "oscar" ou "apaiari", é nativo da bacia Amazônica e apresenta hábito alimentar onívoro, com tendência à carnivoria. A espécie foi introduzida na planície de inundação do alto rio Paraná, onde as estratégias tróficas adotadas pela espécie não são bem conhecidas. O objetivo deste estudo foi caracterizar a dieta de A. crassipinis em diferentes classes de comprimento para identificar diferenças ontogenéticas na composição da dieta e determinar seu comportamento alimentar na planície de inundação invadida. Em adição, nós comparamos experimentalmente o comportamento alimentar de A. crassipinnis com Hoplias sp. 2, um piscívoro nativo. Avaliamos a taxa de predação das duas espécies com presas diferentes (peixes e camarões). Astronotus crassipinnis consumiu itens de diferentes níveis tróficos no estágio juvenil, caracterizando uma alimentação onívora. No estágio adulto, A. crassipinnis apresentou uma estratégia especialista em que peixes e moluscos dominaram a dieta. Em condições controladas, A. crassipinnis consumiu mais camarões que Hoplias sp. 2. A preferência por camarão durante o experimento em contraste com sua alimentação em ambientes naturais evidencia a alta plasticidade trófica de A. crassipinnis. O hábito piscívoro no ambiente invadido pode ser considerado uma estratégia trófica de A. crassipinnis, que se alimenta de um recurso abundante na planície do alto Rio Paraná. Em conclusão, as mudanças ontogenéticas na dieta e o oportunismo trófico dos adultos podem ser as estratégias utilizadas pela espécie para invadir e colonizar a planície de inundação. A estratégia piscívora de A. crassipinnis pode impactar a biodiversidade de peixes, alterando o funcionamento do ecossistema.

Helminthfauna of road-killed cougars (Puma concolor) from the Northeastern Region of São Paulo State, Brazil

As the second-largest Neotropical carnivore, cougars (Puma concolor) are especially important for maintenance of the biodiversity and ecosystem health. Five wild adult cougars (Puma concolor), found roadkilled in highways in the Northeastern region of São Paulo, were evaluated in search for parasites. Ten species representing nine families were identified. The most prevalent helminths were Uncinaria bidens, Lagochilascaris major, Spirometra sp., and Oncicola canis, followed by Cylicospirura subaequalis, Toxascaris leonina, Taenia omissa, Echinococcus sp., Filaroides sp. and Oncicola oncicola. It is important to note that some helminths found in this study, such as L. major, Spirometra sp., O. oncicola, O. canis, Echinococcus sp., T. leonina, C. subaequalis, and Filaroides sp. are known to affect domestic carnivores, which may indicate interaction between wild and domestic hosts. This study represents a new host record for four of the species found in cougars, U. bidens, L. major, O. canis, and Filaroides sp., and new locality records for U. bidens, T. leonina, C. subaequalis, and Filaroides sp(AU)

Como o segundo maior carnívoro neotropical, as onças-pardas são muito importantes para a manutenção da biodiversidade e a saúde do ecossistema. Cinco pumas adultos de vida livre (Puma concolor), mortos em rodovias na região Nordeste de São Paulo, foram avaliados quanto a presença de parasitas. Dez espécies, representando nove famílias foram identificadas. Os helmintos mais prevalentes foram Uncinaria bidens, Lagochilascaris major, Spirometra sp., e Oncicola canis, seguidos por Cylicospirura subaequalis, Toxascaris leonina, Taenia omissa, Echinococcus sp., Filaroides sp. e Oncicola oncicola. É importante salientar que alguns dos helmintos encontrados neste estudo, tais como Lagochilascaris major, Spirometra sp., O. oncicola, Oncicola canis, Echinococcus sp., Toxascaris leonina, Cylicospirura subaequalis, e Filaroides sp., afetam sabidamente carnívoros domésticos, o que pode indicar a interação entre hospedeiros selvagens e domésticos. Este estudo representa novos registros de hospedeiro para quatro espécies de helmintos, sendo elas U. bidens, L. major, O. canis, and Filaroides sp., além de novo registro de localidade para U. bidens, T. leonina, C. subaequalis, e Filaroides sp(AU)

Genética em gatos: O que eu preciso saber antes de acasalar? / Genetics in Cats: What I need to know before breeding?

O gato doméstico foi o segundo carnívoro a passar pelo processo de domesticação. Este evento foi um marco muito importante para os gatos, mas também houve grande impacto para nossa sociedade, pois os gatos auxiliaram fortemente no controle de roedores. Após uma longa interação entre humanos e gatos, a seleção artificial para formação de raças e fenótipos de interesse gerou um aumento de acasalamentos entre indivíduos aparentados, e consequentemente, aumento de variantes deletérias nos gatos modernos. Atualmente, pesquisa e dados genômicos permitem a avaliação e detecção destas variantes, de modo a auxiliar a reprodução e saúde dos gatos domésticos.

The domestic cat was the second carnivore to go through the domestication process. This event was a very important milestone for cats, but it also had a great impact on our society, as cats strongly helped in rodent control. After a long interaction between humans and cats, artificial selection to form breeds and phenotypes of interest generated an increase in matings among related individuals, and consequently, an increase in deleterious variants in modern cats. Currently, research and genomic data allow the evaluation and detection of these variants, in order to help the reproduction and health of domestic felines.

Clinical approach for treating dilated cardiomyopathy in a hog-nosed skunk (Conepatus chinga)

Background: Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a multifactorial disease characterized by systolic dysfunction of myocardium, affecting domestic animals like dogs, cats, and ferrets. It was sporadically described in non-domestic species, generally as a necropsy observation. The hog-nosed skunk (Conepatus chinga) is a small mammal, carnivore, belonging to the Mephitidae family, found in southern South America, and considered as concerned in a conservation status of the species. The goal of this issue is report the first clinical approach of dilated cardiomyopathy in a young hog-nosed skunk, elucidating the challenging aspects of the diagnostic, therapy, and clinical outcome. Case: A newborn hog-nosed skunk (Conepatus chinga) was found in a farm of southern Brazil in poor nutritional and behavioral conditions. Thirty days of nutritional supplementation based on cow's milk, fruits and insects were necessary to recover its body weight score and activity level. However, 2 months after adoption, the skunk showed acute dyspnea and abnormal breath sound, decreased appetite, and loss of weight. Firstly, these signs were associated with a possible pulmonary infection or other respiratory disease. However, the general cardiomegaly and pulmonary edema pattern observed on the thoracic radiography, changed the clinical approach, conducting the presumptive diagnosis to congestive heart failure (pulmonary edema) caused by an unknown cardiac disease as a dilated cardiomyopathy (CDM). An adequate physical, echocardiographic, electrocardiographic, and hematological evaluation was possible only after chemical restraint by sevofluorane. Systolic heart murmur and pulmonary cracking sounds were detected on thoracic auscultation. These findings associated to the echocardiography features of four chamber dilatation, systolic (fractional shortening-FS = 9% and ejection fraction-EF= 22%) and diastolic (mitral E/A ratio = 4.93) dysfunctions, and bilateral ventriculoatrial regurgitation (mitral and tricuspid) were highly correlated with DCM. Considering the etiologies of CDM described in domestic species and the poor nutritional condition previously observed in the case, nutritional and idiopathic etiologies of DCM were considered for this case. Therapy was based on furosemide at hospital (4 mg/kg subcutaneous, single doses) and home (2 mg/kg orally, BID), enalapril maleate (0.5 mg/kg orally, every 48 h), taurine supplementation (100 mg orally, SID), and pimobendan (0.5 mg/kg orally, BID). Clinical improvement was already observed on the second day of treatment, and monitored for 5 months, when the skunk was completely revaluated. The second echocardiographic exam showed improvement in systolic (FS = 20% and EF = 43%) and diastolic functions (mitral E/A ratio = 2.05), tricuspid regurgitation was not observed, and decrease the left atrial and ventricular dimensions were seen. Due to good clinical outcome, furosemide was gradually reduced until complete withdrawal without any clinical complications or worsening. After 30 months of therapy of pimobendan, taurine, and enalapril maleate, the skunk has good quality captive life without congestive heart failure recurrence. Discussion: The lack of information about DCM in hog-nosed skunk turns the clinical diagnosis and therapy challenging. However, the radiographic and echocardiographic features seamed to lead the same domestic animal patterns. The therapy based on decrease the cardiac overload, increase the myocardial inotropic function (pimobendan and taurine) resulted on excellent clinical and echocardiographic outcome. Although the etiologies of DCM in this species are not stablished, the diagnostic and therapeutic approaches applied resulted on excellent clinical results, and therefore may provide useful information about this cardiac condition in skunk species.

Effectiveness of protected areas for jaguars: the case of the Taiamã Ecological Station in Brazil

Abstract The largest feline in the Americas and the third largest in the world, the jaguar is an apex predator in the food chain and a key species in the ecosystems where it occurs, developing important ecological functions in maintaining ecosystem balance. In Brazil, the Pantanal is considered an important refuge for the species, and protected areas such as the Taiamã Ecological Station (TES) are relevant for conservation of pristine ecosystem where the species persist. Thus, considering that this area is located in one of the regions with the highest concentration of this large cat in the Pantanal, the objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the protection given by the TES for the jaguar population. The station is a flooded island in the middle of the Paraguay river and surrounded by extensive wetlands. We monitored ten jaguars using GPS collar at the TES and its surroundings. The samples were separated into high-water season (January to June) and low-water season (July to December), and the estimated home ranges were grouped as: 1) residents only and 2) all monitored individuals. The stabilization of the home ranges of eight jaguars, considered residents, was determined through variograms. When all jaguars were analysed together there was 55% overlap between the clustered areas of the two analysed seasons. In the analysis excluding non-resident individuals there was 72% overlap between the clustered areas. The type of land cover inside these areas was very similar between these periods. The range of this protected area is not sufficient to effectively protect these jaguar populations, since the grouped home ranges of the resident animals studied are 3.5(wet)/2.5(dry) times larger than the area of the TES. However, the surroundings of the TES have low human impact and no deforestation and, in this way, the landscape context of the station may have a significant effect on the persistence of a large carnivore like the jaguar. However, it is necessary to create more protected areas in order to prevent possible future environmental changes in the areas surrounding TES.

Prognostic values of physical and hematological parameters of dogs naturally infected with parvovirus PVC-2: retrospective study of 103 cases / [Valores prognósticos de parâmetros físicos e hematológicos de cães naturalmente infectados pelo parvovírus PVC-2: estudo retrospectivo de 103 casos]

Canine parvovirosis is a high mortality disease with acute clinical picture. However, there are few available resources to help stablish prognosis accurately. This study aimed to determine the prognostic threshold values for vital and hematological parameters of dogs naturally infected by the Carnivore protoparvovirus 1 (CPV). A retrospective study of 103 canine parvovirosis cases was carried out. Twenty seven percent of these (28/103) died, 96% (27/28) of which within the first four days of hospitalization. Deceased animals had significantly higher median values for heart (HR) and respiratory (f) rates, as well as significantly lower systolic blood pressure (SBP) than survivors. Severely leukopenic animals (<1,000 cells/µL), had a significantly higher mortality rate (68%, n=13) compared to that of other patients (P<0.0007). Animals with at least two of the following findings: severe hypotension (SBP< 90mmHg), tachycardia (HR > 150 bpm) and leukopenia, represented 34% (34/101) of the cases and had a survival rate of 29% (10/34), while animals with at most one of these parameters represented 66% (67/101) and had a survival rate of 94% (63/67). The presence of two or three abnormal parameters was significantly related to the higher death risk among dogs with parvovirosis (P<0.0001).(AU)

A parvovirose canina é uma doença de alta mortalidade e de quadro clínico agudo. No entanto, existem poucos recursos para se estabelecer prognóstico de maneira precisa. Este estudo objetivou analisar os valores prognósticos de parâmetros físicos e hematológicos de cães naturalmente infectados pelo Carnivore protoparvovirus 1 (CPV). Um estudo retrospectivo de 103 casos de parvovirose canina foi realizado. Desses, 27% dos animais (28/103) foram a óbito, sendo 96% (27/28) com ocorrência nos primeiros quatro dias de internamento. Os cães que foram a óbito apresentaram medianas das frequências cardíaca (FC) e respiratória (f) significativamente maiores e pressão arterial sistólica (PAS) consideravelmente menor que a dos sobreviventes. Entre os animais mais intensamente leucopênicos (<1.000 células/(L), a taxa de mortalidade (68%, n=13) foi expressivamente maior que a dos demais pacientes (P<0,0007). Os animais com hipotensão grave (PAS<90mmHg), taquicardia (FC>150bpm) e leucopenia intensa (leucometria<1.000 células/µL), ou duas dessas alterações clínicas, representaram 34% (34/101) dos casos e tiveram taxa de sobrevida de 29% (10/34), enquanto os animais com, no máximo, um desses parâmetros alterados representaram 66% (67/101) dos animais, com taxa de sobrevida de 94% (63/67). A presença de dois ou três parâmetros alterados esteve significativamente relacionada ao maior risco de óbito de cães com parvovirose (P<0,0001).(AU)

The phyllostomid bat (Mammalia, Chiroptera) assemblage in a fragmented landscape in Midwestern Brazil

ABSTRACT Bats are the second largest order of mammals, with varying feeding habits and great ecological significance. Anthropization has several important effects on animal communities and the Brazilian Cerrado, a Neotropical savannah, has been severely affected by human activity. The objective of this study was to evaluate phyllostomid bat assemblage distributions in the different landscape formations of a modified savannah. Using mist nets, we performed 36 sampling nights between 2015 and 2016. The sampling effort was 23,328 m².h and was equally distributed over three landscape formations: a large fragment, riparian forest, and small fragments. We compared capture rates, richness, diversity, similarity, and feeding guilds for the three formations. We captured 418 bats of 12 species belonging to the family Phyllostomidae. The most abundant species was Artibeus planirostris (Spix, 1823) (n = 126). We found no significant differences in capture rate or diversity between the areas, but there were differences in feeding guild representation. Frugivores species were the most abundant in the three areas. No gleaning insectivore or carnivore species were captured in the small fragments, and the large fragment contained no hematophages. The large fragment and the small fragments had the greatest similarity whereas the riparian forest and small fragments had the least similarity.

RESUMO Os morcegos são a segunda maior ordem de mamíferos, com diversos hábitos alimentares e grande importância ecológica. A antropização possui diversos efeitos nas comunidades animais e o Cerrado Brasileiro, uma savana neotropical, tem sido severamente afetada pela atividade humana. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a distribuição da assembleia de morcegos filostomídeos nas diferentes formações de paisagem de uma savana modificada. Utilizando redes de neblina, nós realizamos 36 noites de amostragem entre 2015 e 2016. O esforço amostral foi de 23.238 m².h igualmente distribuído entre três formações de paisagem: um fragmento grande, mata ciliar e pequenos fragmentos. Nós comparamos a taxa de captura, riqueza, diversidade, similaridade e guildas alimentares para as três formações. Foram capturados 418 morcegos de 12 espécies da família Phyllostomidae. A espécie mais abundante foi Artibeus planirostris (Spix, 1823) (n = 126). Nós não encontramos diferenças significativas na taxa de captura ou diversidade entre as áreas, mas houve diferenças na representatividade das guildas alimentares. As espécies frugívoras foram as mais abundantes nas três áreas. Não houve capturas de espécies insetívoras catadoras ou carnívoras nos pequenos fragmentos e de hematófagos no fragmento grande. O fragmento grande e os pequenos tiveram a maior similaridade entre as formações, enquanto a mata ciliar e os fragmentos pequenos tiveram a menor similaridade.

Human adenovirus, mesophilic bacteria and fungi in puppies’ food marketed in bulk in southern Brazil

Background: The Brazilian domestic canine population are the second largest in the world and their feeding means 0.4%of the Brazilian gross domestic product. For maintaining the quality of the food, the companies use worldwide standardsfor technical prevention and control of contaminants and biological conservation. The packaging is part of this process,since it provides a barrier between food and environment. However, in Brazil, packagings are often opened in retail storesfor bulk marketing. The objectives of this work were to develop a methodology to detect viruses in foods and to analyzethe bacterial and fungal contamination in puppies’ food sold in bulk in Ivoti and Estância Velha, cities in Southern Brazil.Materials, Methods & Results: Twenty samples collected between September and October 2016 were analyzed for mostprobable number of coliforms, Salmonella sp., mesophilic aerobic bacteria and yeast/mold following the regulation of theBrazilian Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Food Supply guidelines. They were also tested for Human MastadenovirusC (HAdV), Canine Mastadenovirus A (CAdV), and Carnivore Protoparvovirus 1 (CPV) genomes. Viral analysis wereperformed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) detection. During the collection of the samples hygienic-sanitary conditions, storage of feeds, animals’ access, dog grooming, and veterinary care were considered to evaluate the conditions ofeach store. A pilot study was carried out using one food sample marketed in bulk and one sample from the original package(closed package) and testing them for bacterial and fungal contamination for standardizing viral detection. Ten grams offood from the original package were mixed with 90 mL of Eagles’ Minimal Essential Medium (E-MEM) in 100 mL sterilebottles. These bottles were kept in room temperature and shaken for 60 min. Subsequently, aliquots were obtained by sequentially diluting the sample (10-2 to 10-4)...

Human adenovirus, mesophilic bacteria and fungi in puppies food marketed in bulk in southern Brazil

Background: The Brazilian domestic canine population are the second largest in the world and their feeding means 0.4%of the Brazilian gross domestic product. For maintaining the quality of the food, the companies use worldwide standardsfor technical prevention and control of contaminants and biological conservation. The packaging is part of this process,since it provides a barrier between food and environment. However, in Brazil, packagings are often opened in retail storesfor bulk marketing. The objectives of this work were to develop a methodology to detect viruses in foods and to analyzethe bacterial and fungal contamination in puppies food sold in bulk in Ivoti and Estância Velha, cities in Southern Brazil.Materials, Methods & Results: Twenty samples collected between September and October 2016 were analyzed for mostprobable number of coliforms, Salmonella sp., mesophilic aerobic bacteria and yeast/mold following the regulation of theBrazilian Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Food Supply guidelines. They were also tested for Human MastadenovirusC (HAdV), Canine Mastadenovirus A (CAdV), and Carnivore Protoparvovirus 1 (CPV) genomes. Viral analysis wereperformed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) detection. During the collection of the samples hygienic-sanitary conditions, storage of feeds, animals access, dog grooming, and veterinary care were considered to evaluate the conditions ofeach store. A pilot study was carried out using one food sample marketed in bulk and one sample from the original package(closed package) and testing them for bacterial and fungal contamination for standardizing viral detection. Ten grams offood from the original package were mixed with 90 mL of Eagles Minimal Essential Medium (E-MEM) in 100 mL sterilebottles. These bottles were kept in room temperature and shaken for 60 min. Subsequently, aliquots were obtained by sequentially diluting the sample (10-2 to 10-4)...(AU)

The phyllostomid bat (Mammalia, Chiroptera) assemblage in a fragmented landscape in Midwestern Brazil / Assembleia de morcegos filostomídeos (Mammalia: Chiroptera) em uma paisagem modificada no Centro-Oeste do Brasil

Bats are the second largest order of mammals, with varying feeding habits and great ecological significance. Anthropization has several important effects on animal communities and the Brazilian Cerrado, a Neotropical savannah, has been severely affected by human activity. The objective of this study was to evaluate phyllostomid bat assemblage distributions in the different landscape formations of a modified savannah. Using mist nets, we performed 36 sampling nights between 2015 and 2016. The sampling effort was 23,328 m².h and was equally distributed over three landscape formations: a large fragment, riparian forest, and small fragments. We compared capture rates, richness, diversity, similarity, and feeding guilds for the three formations. We captured 418 bats of 12 species belonging to the family Phyllostomidae. The most abundant species was Artibeus planirostris (Spix, 1823) (n = 126). We found no significant differences in capture rate or diversity between the areas, but there were differences in feeding guild representation. Frugivores species were the most abundant in the three areas. No gleaning insectivore or carnivore species were captured in the small fragments, and the large fragment contained no hematophages. The large fragment and the small fragments had the greatest similarity whereas the riparian forest and small fragments had the least similarity.(AU)

Os morcegos são a segunda maior ordem de mamíferos, com diversos hábitos alimentares e grande importância ecológica. A antropização possui diversos efeitos nas comunidades animais e o Cerrado Brasileiro, uma savana neotropical, tem sido severamente afetada pela atividade humana. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a distribuição da assembleia de morcegos filostomídeos nas diferentes formações de paisagem de uma savana modificada. Utilizando redes de neblina, nós realizamos 36 noites de amostragem entre 2015 e 2016. O esforço amostral foi de 23.238 m².h igualmente distribuído entre três formações de paisagem: um fragmento grande, mata ciliar e pequenos fragmentos. Nós comparamos a taxa de captura, riqueza, diversidade, similaridade e guildas alimentares para as três formações. Foram capturados 418 morcegos de 12 espécies da família Phyllostomidae. A espécie mais abundante foi Artibeus planirostris (Spix, 1823) (n = 126). Nós não encontramos diferenças significativas na taxa de captura ou diversidade entre as áreas, mas houve diferenças na representatividade das guildas alimentares. As espécies frugívoras foram as mais abundantes nas três áreas. Não houve capturas de espécies insetívoras catadoras ou carnívoras nos pequenos fragmentos e de hematófagos no fragmento grande. O fragmento grande e os pequenos tiveram a maior similaridade entre as formações, enquanto a mata ciliar e os fragmentos pequenos tiveram a menor similaridade.(AU)

The phyllostomid bat (Mammalia, Chiroptera) assemblage in a fragmented landscape in Midwestern Brazil

Bats are the second largest order of mammals, with varying feeding habits and great ecological significance. Anthropization has several important effects on animal communities and the Brazilian Cerrado, a Neotropical savannah, has been severely affected by human activity. The objective of this study was to evaluate phyllostomid bat assemblage distributions in the different landscape formations of a modified savannah. Using mist nets, we performed 36 sampling nights between 2015 and 2016. The sampling effort was 23,328 m².h and was equally distributed over three landscape formations: a large fragment, riparian forest, and small fragments. We compared capture rates, richness, diversity, similarity, and feeding guilds for the three formations. We captured 418 bats of 12 species belonging to the family Phyllostomidae. The most abundant species was Artibeus planirostris (Spix, 1823) (n = 126). We found no significant differences in capture rate or diversity between the areas, but there were differences in feeding guild representation. Frugivores species were the most abundant in the three areas. No gleaning insectivore or carnivore species were captured in the small fragments, and the large fragment contained no hematophages. The large fragment and the small fragments had the greatest similarity whereas the riparian forest and small fragments had the least similarity.(AU)

Os morcegos são a segunda maior ordem de mamíferos, com diversos hábitos alimentares e grande importância ecológica. A antropização possui diversos efeitos nas comunidades animais e o Cerrado Brasileiro, uma savana neotropical, tem sido severamente afetada pela atividade humana. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a distribuição da assembleia de morcegos filostomídeos nas diferentes formações de paisagem de uma savana modificada. Utilizando redes de neblina, nós realizamos 36 noites de amostragem entre 2015 e 2016. O esforço amostral foi de 23.238 m².h igualmente distribuído entre três formações de paisagem: um fragmento grande, mata ciliar e pequenos fragmentos. Nós comparamos a taxa de captura, riqueza, diversidade, similaridade e guildas alimentares para as três formações. Foram capturados 418 morcegos de 12 espécies da família Phyllostomidae. A espécie mais abundante foi Artibeus planirostris (Spix, 1823) (n = 126). Nós não encontramos diferenças significativas na taxa de captura ou diversidade entre as áreas, mas houve diferenças na representatividade das guildas alimentares. As espécies frugívoras foram as mais abundantes nas três áreas. Não houve capturas de espécies insetívoras catadoras ou carnívoras nos pequenos fragmentos e de hematófagos no fragmento grande. O fragmento grande e os pequenos tiveram a maior similaridade entre as formações, enquanto a mata ciliar e os fragmentos pequenos tiveram a menor similaridade.(AU)

The phyllostomid bat (Mammalia, Chiroptera) assemblage in a fragmented landscape in Midwestern Brazil

Bats are the second largest order of mammals, with varying feeding habits and great ecological significance. Anthropization has several important effects on animal communities and the Brazilian Cerrado, a Neotropical savannah, has been severely affected by human activity. The objective of this study was to evaluate phyllostomid bat assemblage distributions in the different landscape formations of a modified savannah. Using mist nets, we performed 36 sampling nights between 2015 and 2016. The sampling effort was 23,328 m².h and was equally distributed over three landscape formations: a large fragment, riparian forest, and small fragments. We compared capture rates, richness, diversity, similarity, and feeding guilds for the three formations. We captured 418 bats of 12 species belonging to the family Phyllostomidae. The most abundant species was Artibeus planirostris (Spix, 1823) (n = 126). We found no significant differences in capture rate or diversity between the areas, but there were differences in feeding guild representation. Frugivores species were the most abundant in the three areas. No gleaning insectivore or carnivore species were captured in the small fragments, and the large fragment contained no hematophages. The large fragment and the small fragments had the greatest similarity whereas the riparian forest and small fragments had the least similarity.

Os morcegos são a segunda maior ordem de mamíferos, com diversos hábitos alimentares e grande importância ecológica. A antropização possui diversos efeitos nas comunidades animais e o Cerrado Brasileiro, uma savana neotropical, tem sido severamente afetada pela atividade humana. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a distribuição da assembleia de morcegos filostomídeos nas diferentes formações de paisagem de uma savana modificada. Utilizando redes de neblina, nós realizamos 36 noites de amostragem entre 2015 e 2016. O esforço amostral foi de 23.238 m².h igualmente distribuído entre três formações de paisagem: um fragmento grande, mata ciliar e pequenos fragmentos. Nós comparamos a taxa de captura, riqueza, diversidade, similaridade e guildas alimentares para as três formações. Foram capturados 418 morcegos de 12 espécies da família Phyllostomidae. A espécie mais abundante foi Artibeus planirostris (Spix, 1823) (n = 126). Nós não encontramos diferenças significativas na taxa de captura ou diversidade entre as áreas, mas houve diferenças na representatividade das guildas alimentares. As espécies frugívoras foram as mais abundantes nas três áreas. Não houve capturas de espécies insetívoras catadoras ou carnívoras nos pequenos fragmentos e de hematófagos no fragmento grande. O fragmento grande e os pequenos tiveram a maior similaridade entre as formações, enquanto a mata ciliar e os fragmentos pequenos tiveram a menor similaridade.

Felis catus gammaherpesvirus 1 (FcaGHV1) and coinfections with feline viral pathogens in domestic cats in Brazil / Ocorrência de Felis catus gammaherpesvirus 1 (FcaGHV1) e coinfecções com patógenos virais felinos em gatos domésticos no Brasil

Felis catus gammaherpesvirus 1 (FcaGHV1) may causes an asymptomatic infection that result in an efficient transmission and subsequently dissemination of the virus in feline population. This study used molecular detection by qPCR (quantitative PCR) based on DNA polymerase gene fragment amplification to evaluate the occurrence of FcaGHV1 and its correlation with other feline viral pathogens, such as Carnivore protoparvovirus 1 (CPPV-1), Felid alphaherpesvirus 1 (FeHV-1), and feline retroviruses such as feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and feline leukemia virus (FeLV). Of the 182 blood samples evaluated 23.6% (43/182) were positives for FcaGHV1. Approximately 37.9% (33/87) of the samples that tested positive for retrovirus were also were positive for FcaGHV1 infection (P 0.0001). Among FIV-infected samples, 49% (24/49) were positive for FcaGHV1 (P 0.0001). FcaGHV1 infection was not associated with FeLV (P>0.66) or CPPV-1 (P>0.46) coinfection. All samples were negative for FeHV-1. Male felines were significantly associated to FcaGHV1 (P 0.0001) and their risk of infection with FcaGHV1 was about of 7.74 times greater compared to females. Kittens ( 1year) were the least affected by FcaGHV1 infection, being verified a rate of 7.7% (4/52). Therefore, male cats over one year old and infected with FIV were considerably more likely to be infected with FcaGHV1. To our knowledge, this is the first study to report the occurrence and molecular detection of FcaGHV1 infection in domestic cats in Brazil and in South America.(AU)

Felis catus gammaherpesvirus 1 (FcaGHV1) pode causar uma infecção assintomática, que resulta em uma transmissão eficiente e consequente disseminação do virus na população felina. Este estudo utilizou a detecção molecular por qPCR (PCR quantitativa) baseado na amplificação de um fragmento do gene da DNA polimerase para avaliar a ocorrência de FcaGHV1, sendo correlacionado a outros patógenos virais felinos como Carnivore protoparvovirus 1 (CPPV-1), Felid alphaherpesvirus 1 (FeHV-1) e aos retrovírus felinos como vírus da imunodeficiência felina (FIV) e vírus da leucemia felina (FeLV). Das 182 amostras de sangue avaliadas, 23,6% (43/182) foram positivas para FcaGHV1. Aproximadamente 37,9% (33/87) das amostras positivas para retrovirus também foram positivas para FcaGHV1 (P 0,0001). Entre as amostras FIV-infectadas, 49% (24/49) foram positivas para FcaGHV1 (P 0,0001). A infecção por FcaGHV1 não foi associada à coinfecção por FeLV (P>0,66) e CPPV-1 (P>0,46). Todas as amostras foram negativas para FeHV-1. Felinos machos foram significativativamente associados à infecção por FcaHV1 (P 0,0001) e o risco de infecção com FcaGHV1 foi aproximadamente 7,74 vezes maior comparados às femeas. Os filhotes (1 ano) foram os menos acometidos pela infecção por FcaGHV1 sendo verificado uma proporção de 7.7% (4/52). Assim, gatos machos com mais de um ano de idade e infectados por FIV foram, consideravelmente, mais susceptíveis a serem infectados com FcaGHV1. Para nosso conhecimento, este é o primeiro estudo que relata a ocorrência de infecção e detecção molecular de FcaGHV1 em gatos domésticos no Brasil e na América do Sul.(AU)

Felis catus gammaherpesvirus 1 (FcaGHV1) and coinfections with feline viral pathogens in domestic cats in Brazil / Ocorrência de Felis catus gammaherpesvirus 1 (FcaGHV1) e coinfecções com patógenos virais felinos em gatos domésticos no Brasil

Felis catus gammaherpesvirus 1 (FcaGHV1) may causes an asymptomatic infection that result in an efficient transmission and subsequently dissemination of the virus in feline population. This study used molecular detection by qPCR (quantitative PCR) based on DNA polymerase gene fragment amplification to evaluate the occurrence of FcaGHV1 and its correlation with other feline viral pathogens, such as Carnivore protoparvovirus 1 (CPPV-1), Felid alphaherpesvirus 1 (FeHV-1), and feline retroviruses such as feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and feline leukemia virus (FeLV). Of the 182 blood samples evaluated 23.6% (43/182) were positives for FcaGHV1. Approximately 37.9% (33/87) of the samples that tested positive for retrovirus were also were positive for FcaGHV1 infection (P 0.0001). Among FIV-infected samples, 49% (24/49) were positive for FcaGHV1 (P 0.0001). FcaGHV1 infection was not associated with FeLV (P>0.66) or CPPV-1 (P>0.46) coinfection. All samples were negative for FeHV-1. Male felines were significantly associated to FcaGHV1 (P 0.0001) and their risk of infection with FcaGHV1 was about of 7.74 times greater compared to females. Kittens ( 1year) were the least affected by FcaGHV1 infection, being verified a rate of 7.7% (4/52). Therefore, male cats over one year old and infected with FIV were considerably more likely to be infected with FcaGHV1. To our knowledge, this is the first study to report the occurrence and molecular detection of FcaGHV1 infection in domestic cats in Brazil and in South America.

Felis catus gammaherpesvirus 1 (FcaGHV1) pode causar uma infecção assintomática, que resulta em uma transmissão eficiente e consequente disseminação do virus na população felina. Este estudo utilizou a detecção molecular por qPCR (PCR quantitativa) baseado na amplificação de um fragmento do gene da DNA polimerase para avaliar a ocorrência de FcaGHV1, sendo correlacionado a outros patógenos virais felinos como Carnivore protoparvovirus 1 (CPPV-1), Felid alphaherpesvirus 1 (FeHV-1) e aos retrovírus felinos como vírus da imunodeficiência felina (FIV) e vírus da leucemia felina (FeLV). Das 182 amostras de sangue avaliadas, 23,6% (43/182) foram positivas para FcaGHV1. Aproximadamente 37,9% (33/87) das amostras positivas para retrovirus também foram positivas para FcaGHV1 (P 0,0001). Entre as amostras FIV-infectadas, 49% (24/49) foram positivas para FcaGHV1 (P 0,0001). A infecção por FcaGHV1 não foi associada à coinfecção por FeLV (P>0,66) e CPPV-1 (P>0,46). Todas as amostras foram negativas para FeHV-1. Felinos machos foram significativativamente associados à infecção por FcaHV1 (P 0,0001) e o risco de infecção com FcaGHV1 foi aproximadamente 7,74 vezes maior comparados às femeas. Os filhotes (1 ano) foram os menos acometidos pela infecção por FcaGHV1 sendo verificado uma proporção de 7.7% (4/52). Assim, gatos machos com mais de um ano de idade e infectados por FIV foram, consideravelmente, mais susceptíveis a serem infectados com FcaGHV1. Para nosso conhecimento, este é o primeiro estudo que relata a ocorrência de infecção e detecção molecular de FcaGHV1 em gatos domésticos no Brasil e na América do Sul.

É possível integrar pecuária à conservação da biodiversidade? Estudo de casos de depredação de ovinos por onça-parda (Puma concolor) / Is it possible to integrate livestock into biodiversity conservation? Case study of sheep depredation by puma (Puma concolor)

Em diversas partes da América Latina, a perda e diminuição do habitat natural de animais silvestres ocorre em função do aumento das atividades agropecuárias. Nos últimos anos o número de mortes de animais de criação por depredação tem aumentado, bem como a consequente retaliação aos predadores. Como resultado destas ações, ocorre à extinção ou redução das populações destes predadores de topo, provocando perdas ecológicas. Esse estudo teve como objetivo apontar medidas preventivas e mitigatórias da depredação de ovinos por onça-parda (Puma concolor). Através da análise de dois estudos de casos de depredação no Centro-Oeste brasileiro e na região dos Andes Colombianos, levantamos soluções alternativas sustentáveis para que profissionais e criadores possam se prevenir desta ameaça ao rebanho ovino. Um estudo de caso foi realizado em fazenda no município de Alto Paraguai, Mato Grosso. Entre os anos 2005 e 2014 houve visitas na propriedade para diagnóstico de doenças e realizou-se estudo comparativo da quantidade de mortes por doenças com as mortes por depredação. No ano de 2010 ocorreu um ataque depredatório que resultou em morte de seis ovinos. Em 2014, realizou-se um estudo na região central do Departamento del Valle del Cauca, há 2814m de altitude nos Andes colombianos, para diagnosticar a depredação de gado na região e implementar medidas para prevenir sua ocorrência e avaliar sua eficácia. No total, foram implementadas medidas anti-depredação sobre oito propriedades, e entre elas, um curral com cerca elétrica para ovelhas foi implementada em uma fazenda no município de Tuluá. Os resultados mostram que as perdas econômicas por depredação são graves nas duas regiões estudadas e se equiparam a perdas por doenças no estudo de caso em Mato Grosso, Brasil. Portanto recomenda-se a combinação entre o manejo sanitário, métodos de prevenção e, se necessário, mitigação de ataques depredatório. Além disso, legisladores devem se associar a pesquisadores para traçar estratégias efetivas para esse sério problema na América Latina.(AU)

In several parts of Latin America, the expansion of agriculture over the years has caused loss and reduction of wild fauna natural habitat. Recently, deaths of sheep and cattle have increased due to predation by large carnivores and the resulting retaliation by farmers on predators. Consequently, populations of these top predators have been reduced or have got even locally extinct, leading to imbalances on ecosystems, altered because of the carnivore effects on prey dinamics. The objective of this study is to analyse sheep depredation by puma (Puma concolor), in Central Brazil and in the Colombian Andes and point out preventive and mitigating measures that can be implemented in rural areas. From 2005 to 2014, we visited a ranch in Alto Paraguai, Mato Grosso, Brazil for diagnostic purposes and we compared the death of sheep from diseases and depredation attacks. In 2014, we visited a rural area in the central region of Departamento del Valle del Cauca, at 2814m of altitude in the Colombian Andes, to diagnose sheep predation, implement preventive measures, and evaluate their effectiveness. The results reveal that economic losses due to predation are critical on both studied regions and similar to losses by diseases in Mato Grosso state, Brazil. Thus, we recommend the integration of health management, preventive measures as well as mitigation of depredatory attacks at the local scale and we discuss potential sustainable measures that can be locally implemented by farmers. Furthermore, we recommend that public policies should incorporate scientific results on human-wildlife conflicts to be effective, considering both livestock management and biodiversity conservation.(AU)