Indigestible foreign bodies in the forestomach of slaughtered goats in Mogadishu, Somalia.

Background and Aim: The primary domestic animal in Somali communities is the goat. Their main economic importance is as a food source and a main form of agriculture in the country. There has been a recent decline in the goat population in Somalia, which may be due to the shortage of feed and an increasingly contaminated environment that is affecting the population's food supply and nutritional status. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence and the factors associated with indigestible foreign bodies (IFBs) ingestion in goats in Mogadishu, Somalia. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at the Somalia Meat Company in Mogadishu, Somalia, in February 2022. A total of 250 goats were included in this study, and records were kept on age, sex, body condition, and location. Following the slaughter, goats were inspected for IFBs, and their stomach compartments were incised and examined. Indigestible foreign body classifications was noted and subjected to analysis using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 26.0. Results: A total of 90/250 (36%; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 30.1-42.3) goats presented IFBs, being 71/90 (79%; 95% CI: 69-87) in the rumen, 12/90 (13%; 95% CI: 7-22) in the reticulum, and seven/90 (8%; 95% CI: 3-15) on both. The most observed IFBs were plastic in 71/90 (79%; 95% CI: 69-87), followed by ropes in eight/90 (10%; 95% CI: 5-18). A high IFB prevalence was observed in goats aged >2-≤3 years (44%), followed by >3 years (36%). The lowest frequency was observed in goats aged <2 years (30%). Overall, there was an association between IFBs in goats and poor body conditions (χ2 = 47%, p < 0.04). Conclusion: The absence of a plastic waste disposal system in the area, and communal free-grazing of livestock in highly contaminated sites, appeared to be significant contributors to the high occurrence of IFBs in goats. Therefore, appropriate policies for solid waste management should be implemented.

'Candidatus Mycoplasma haematohydrochoerus', a novel hemoplasma species in capybaras (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) from Brazil.

Three different species of hemoplasmas have been described in rodents, Mycoplasma coccoides, 'Candidatus Mycoplasma haemomuris' and 'Candidatus Mycoplasma haemosphiggurus'. Additionally, potentially novel hemoplasma species have been detected in wild rodents from Brazil, including capybaras (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris). Capybaras are the largest rodent in the world and are well adapted to live within close proximity to humans, which increases the risk to spread of zoonotic pathogens. Herein, we investigate the occurrence and genetic diversity of hemoplasmas infecting free-ranging capybaras from southern Brazil. Blood samples and ticks from 17 capybaras were collected. Packed cell volume and total plasma protein were measured, DNA was extracted, and further screened by species-specific and pan-hemoplasma PCR assays targeting the 16S rRNA gene of hemoplasmas. Sixteen out of 17 (94.12%; 95% CI: 73.02-98.95%) were anemic. Only one young female was hypoproteinemic. All capybaras were infested by adults and nymphs of Amblyomma dubitatum ticks. Using the PCR assay targeting the 16S rRNA gene of M. coccoides, 13/17 (76.47%; 95% CI: 52.74-90.44%) capybaras were positive for hemoplasmas. When DNA samples were tested by the pan-hemoplasma PCR, 16/17 (94.12%; 95% CI: 73.02-98.95%) animals were positive. One out of 11 (9.09%) adult ticks salivary glands tested positive for hemoplasma by the pan-hemoplasma PCR assay. Sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of the 16S and 23S rRNA gene fragments confirmed that animals were infected by a novel hemotropic Mycoplasma sp. previously reported in capybaras from Brazil. Additionally, sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of the 23S rRNA gene from three hemoplasma-positive capybaras samples from a previous study performed in midwestern Brazil also confirm our findings. Based on phylogenetic and Neighbor-Net network analysis of the 16S rRNA and 23S rRNA genes, the name 'Candidatus Mycoplasma haematohydrochoerus' is proposed for this novel organism.

Leptospira spp. Antibody in Wild Boars (Sus scrofa), Hunting Dogs (Canis lupus familiaris), and Hunters of Brazil.

Hunting activities are a potential risk factor for human infection with Leptospira spp. and, although wild boar seroprevalence has been studied, there are no concurrent serosurveys of wild boars (Sus scrofa), hunting dogs (Canis lupus familiaris), and hunters. The aim of our study was to assess the seroprevalence of Leptospira spp. antibodies in free-ranging wild boars, hunting dogs, and hunters, and risk factors associated with exposure in southern and central-western Brazil. Leptospira spp. antibodies were serologically detected using the microscopic agglutination test, with a total 30 serovars. Overall, 12.2% (9/74) of wild boars and 10.6% (16/170) of hunting dogs were seropositive for at least one serovar and all hunters 0.0% (0/49) were seronegative for Leptospira spp. Seropositivity was statistically higher in 42.1% (8/19) wild boars from natural areas when compared to 2.4% (1/41) from anthropized areas (P<0.001), with prevalence ratio of 17.14 (95% confidence interval: 2.29-128.36). Despite the limited sample size, our findings showed that hunters may be less exposed to Leptospira spp. than are wild boars, particularly in natural areas where Leptospira spp. may be maintained by wild reservoirs. In addition to acting as sentinels, hunting dogs may play a role in disease transmission of sylvatic leptospiral serovars.

Prevalence of bovines persistently infected with bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) in dairy cattle herds in Paraná State, Brazil

ABSTRACT: This study aimed to establish the prevalence of animals persistently infected (PI) with bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) in dairy farms at Parana State, Brazil. Samples were collected from 6,465 female Holstein Friesian Dairy Cattle, including animals less than two years old, females over two years old who had not given birth at the farm, and mothers of calves diagnosed as persistently infected. The cattle came from 40 dairy herds distributed in 10 municipalities in the State of Paraná. The samples were obtained from May 2015 to August 2018. The diagnosis of PI animals was made with an antigen-capture ELISA test. We detected PI animals in fifteen herds sampled (37.5%), ranging from one to sixteen animals per herd. The prevalence in Parana States municipalities was 1.78%, ranging from 0.3 to 8.9% at positive herds. The analysis of the individual herds shows significant dissemination of the BVDV in Paranas municipalities, including endemic areas. With this, we highlight the need for measures to raise awareness among producers about the existence and importance of bovine viral diarrhea (BVD) in dairy herds, reinforcing the PI animals role in disease epidemiology and the economic impact caused by the maintenance of these farm animals.

RESUMO: Com o intuito de se estabelecer a prevalência de animais persistentemente infectados (PI) com o BVDV em propriedades leiteiras no estado do Paraná. Foram coletadas amostras de 6.465 bovinos, fêmeas, da raça Holandês Preto e Branco (HPB). Amostraram-se animais com idade inferior a dois anos, fêmeas com mais de dois anos que não haviam tido partos na propriedade, e mães de bezerros que foram diagnosticados como persistentemente infectados. Os bovinos foram provenientes de 40 rebanhos leiteiros, distribuídos em 10 municípios no Estado do Paraná. A coleta deu-se no período de maio de 2015 a agosto de 2018. O diagnóstico dos animais PI foi feito por meio do teste de ELISA de captura de antígeno. Animais PI foram detectados em quinze rebanhos amostrais (37,5%), oscilando entre um e dezesseis animais por rebanho. A prevalência nos municípios do estado Paraná foi de 1,78%, oscilando entre 0,3 a 8,9% nos rebanhos positivos. Com a alta prevalência de animais PI observada, quando analisados os rebanhos amostrais individualmente, é possível afirmar que há uma disseminação importante do BVDV em municípios paranaenses, destacando inclusive áreas endêmicas. Com isso, vê-se a necessidade de medidas de conscientização dos produtores sobre a existência e importância da BVD nos rebanhos, destacando o papel dos animais PI na epidemiologia da doença, bem como o impacto econômico causado pela manutenção desses animais nos rebanhos.

Prevalence of bovines persistently infected with bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) in dairy cattle herds in Paraná State, Brazil / Prevalência de bovinos persistentemente infectados com o vírus da diarreia viral bovina (BVDV) em rebanhos leiteiros no estado do Paraná, Brasil

This study aimed to establish the prevalence of animals persistently infected (PI) with bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) in dairy farms at Parana State, Brazil. Samples were collected from 6,465 female Holstein Friesian Dairy Cattle, including animals less than two years old, females over two years old who had not given birth at the farm, and mothers of calves diagnosed as persistently infected. The cattle came from 40 dairy herds distributed in 10 municipalities in the State of Paraná. The samples were obtained from May 2015 to August 2018. The diagnosis of PI animals was made with an antigen-capture ELISA test. We detected PI animals in fifteen herds sampled (37.5%), ranging from one to sixteen animals per herd. The prevalence in Parana State's municipalities was 1.78%, ranging from 0.3 to 8.9% at positive herds. The analysis of the individual herds shows significant dissemination of the BVDV in Parana's municipalities, including endemic areas. With this, we highlight the need for measures to raise awareness among producers about the existence and importance of bovine viral diarrhea (BVD) in dairy herds, reinforcing the PI animals' role in disease epidemiology and the economic impact caused by the maintenance of these farm animals.(AU)

Com o intuito de se estabelecer a prevalência de animais persistentemente infectados (PI) com o BVDV em propriedades leiteiras no estado do Paraná. Foram coletadas amostras de 6.465 bovinos, fêmeas, da raça Holandês Preto e Branco (HPB). Amostraram-se animais com idade inferior a dois anos, fêmeas com mais de dois anos que não haviam tido partos na propriedade, e mães de bezerros que foram diagnosticados como persistentemente infectados. Os bovinos foram provenientes de 40 rebanhos leiteiros, distribuídos em 10 municípios no Estado do Paraná. A coleta deu-se no período de maio de 2015 a agosto de 2018. O diagnóstico dos animais PI foi feito por meio do teste de ELISA de captura de antígeno. Animais PI foram detectados em quinze rebanhos amostrais (37,5%), oscilando entre um e dezesseis animais por rebanho. A prevalência nos municípios do estado Paraná foi de 1,78%, oscilando entre 0,3 a 8,9% nos rebanhos positivos. Com a alta prevalência de animais PI observada, quando analisados os rebanhos amostrais individualmente, é possível afirmar que há uma disseminação importante do BVDV em municípios paranaenses, destacando inclusive áreas endêmicas. Com isso, vê-se a necessidade de medidas de conscientização dos produtores sobre a existência e importância da BVD nos rebanhos, destacando o papel dos animais PI na epidemiologia da doença, bem como o impacto econômico causado pela manutenção desses animais nos rebanhos.(AU)

Tick-borne pathogens in carthorses from Foz do Iguaçu City, Paraná State, southern Brazil: A tri-border area of Brazil, Paraguay and Argentina.

Tick-borne diseases (TBD) constitute an important group of illness affecting animals and humans worldwide. In Brazil, carthorses are frequently exposed to ticks and tick-borne pathogens, leading to impairment of horse performance and imposing restrictions by the international veterinary authorities for the importation of horses. Accordingly, this study has aimed to i) determine the prevalence of the TBD agents Theileria equi, Babesia caballi, Ehrlichia spp., and hemotropic mycoplasmas in carthorses, ii) identify the tick species parasitizing the animals, and iii) determine factors associated with exposure/infection in Foz do Iguaçu City, Parana state, southern Brazil. A total of 103 carthorses were screened for anti-T. equi and anti-Ehrlichia spp. antibodies by indirect fluorescent antibody assays (IFA). Samples were also tested by PCR assays targeting the 18S rRNA gene of T. equi and B. caballi, and 16S rRNA gene of hemoplasmas. Additionally, PCR assays targeting the 16S rRNA, disulfide bond formation protein (dsb) and tandem repeat proteins 36 (trp36) genes of Ehrlichia spp. were also performed. Antibodies to T. equi and Ehrlichia spp. were detected in 43/103 (41.75%; 95% CI: 32.10-51.88%) and 5/103 (4.85%; 95% CI: 1.59-10.97%) horses by IFA, respectively. DNA of T. equi and B. caballi were found in 25/103 (24.27%; 95% CI: 16.36-33.71%) and 10/103 (9.71%; 95% CI: 4.75-17.13%) carthorses, respectively, and all tested negative for Ehrlichia spp. and hemoplasmas. All sequences showed ≥99% identity with multiple T. equi and B. caballi 18S rRNA gene sequences deposited in GenBank. Overall, 191 Dermacentor nitens ticks were collected from 25/103 (24.27%) animals. Carthorses older than 5 years were more likely to be positive for T. equi (p < 0.05). In conclusion, equine piroplasmosis agents are highly prevalent in carthorses from Foz do Iguaçu City. The low prevalence of Ehrlichia spp. found may be due to the absence of Amblyomma ticks infesting animals, which should be further investigated.

Ticks and serosurvey of anti-Rickettsia spp. antibodies in wild boars (Sus scrofa), hunting dogs and hunters of Brazil.

BACKGROUND: Rickettsia bacteria are responsible for diseases in humans and animals around the world, however few details are available regarding its ecology and circulation among wild animals and human populations at high transmission risk in Brazil. The aim of this study was to investigate the occurrence of ticks and Rickettsia spp. in wild boars, corresponding hunting dogs and hunters. METHODS: Serum samples and ticks were collected from 80 free-range wild boars, 170 hunting dogs and 34 hunters from southern and central-western Brazil, from the Atlantic Forest and Cerrado biomes, respectively, between 2016 and 2018. Serum samples were tested by indirect immunofluorescent-antibody assay (IFA) to detect IgG antibodies against Rickettsia rickettsii, Rickettsia parkeri, Rickettsia bellii, Rickettsia rhipicephali and Rickettsia amblyommatis. Tick species were identified by morphological taxonomic keys, as previously described. A total of 164 ticks including A. sculptum, A. brasiliense and A. aureolatum were tested in PCR assays for Spotted Fever Group (SFG) Rickettsia spp. RESULTS: A total of 58/80 (72.5%) wild boars, 24/170 (14.1%) hunting dogs and 5/34 (14.7%) hunters were positive (titers ≥ 64) to at least one Rickettsia species. A total of 669/1,584 (42.2%) ticks from wild boars were identified as Amblyomma sculptum, 910/1,584 (57.4%) as Amblyomma brasiliense, 4/1,584(0.24%) larvae of Amblyomma spp. and 1/1,584 (0.06%) nymph as Amblyolmma dubitatum. All 9 ticks found on hunting dogs were identified as Amblyomma aureolatum and all 22 ticks on hunters as A. sculptum. No tested tick was positive by standard PCR to SFG Rickettsia spp. CONCLUSIONS: The present study was the concomitant report of wild boar, hunting dog and hunter exposure to SFG rickettsiae agents, performed in two different Brazilian biomes. Wild boar hunting may increase the risk of human exposure and consequently tick-borne disease Wild boars may be carrying and spreading capybara ticks from their original habitats to other ecosystems. Further studies can be required to explore the ability of wild boars to infecting ticks and be part of transmission cycle of Rickettsia spp.

One-step laparoscopic abomasopexy versus abomasopexy via right paralumbar fossa to treat left abomasal displacement in dairy cows / Abomasopexia por laparoscopia em um passo em comparação à abomasopexia via laparotomia pelo flanco direito no tratamento do deslocamento de abomaso à esquerda em vacas leiteiras

This study aimed to compare the clinical and metabolic results obtained by use of one-step laparoscopic abomasopexy and right paralumbar fossa abomasopexy for the treatment of left displaced abomasum in dairy cows. Thirty Holstein-Friesian dairy cows were randomly placed in two groups: G1, with 15 animals treated by one-step laparoscopic abomasopexy; and G2, with 15 animals treated by right paralumbar fossa ventral abomasopexy. Concentrations of sodium, potassium, chloride, bicarbonate, base excess (BE), pH, partial pressure of carbon dioxide (pCO2) strong ion difference (SID), anion gap (AG), glucose, β-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA) and non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) were measured before (M0) and 24 (M1), 48 (M2) and 72 (M3) hours following surgery. Laparotomy was statistically faster than laparoscopy. Hypochloremia was observed only in G2 at M0. Hypokalemia and hypocalcemia were observed in both groups at M0, increasing after surgery. Metabolic alkalosis in both groups before surgery was characterized by high bicarbonate, pCO2, and BE, which decreased in subsequent time points, as well as blood pH. Glucose was statistically increased and NEFA and BHBA were statistically decreased in G2 compared to G1. In G1, NEFA and BHBA decreased significantly following surgery. Both surgical techniques restored abomasal flow and feed intake in both groups. Based in acid-base status, one-step laparoscopy showed no additional advantage in comparison with abomasopexy via right paralumbar fossa.(AU)

Este estudo objetivou comparar as técnicas de abomasopexia por laparoscopia em um passo e abomasopexia por laparotomia pelo flanco direito, no tratamento do deslocamento de abomaso à esquerda (DAE) em vacas leiteiras quanto a recuperação clínica no pós-operatório, utilizando parâmetros clínicos, metabólicos e eletrolíticos. Trinta vacas Holandesas preto e brancas foram distribuídas de forma aleatória em dois grupos: G1 com 15 animais tratados pela técnica de abomasopexia em um passo; e G2, com 15 animais tratados pela abomasopexia por laparotomia pelo flanco direito. Foram mensuradas as concentrações séricas de sódio, potássio, cloro, bicarbonato, excesso de base (BE), pH sanguíneo, pressão parcial de gás carbônico (pCO2), diferença de íons fortes (SID), ânion gap AG), glicose, β-hidroxibutirato (BHBA) e ácidos graxos não esterificados (NEFA). As variáveis foram mensuradas antes da operação e 24, 48 e 72 horas após operação. A laparotomia foi estatisticamente mais rápida do que a laparoscopia no tratamento do DAE. Hipocloremia foi observada somente nas vacas do G2 antes da cirurgia. Alcalose metabólica em ambos os grupos antes da operação foi caracterizada pelo aumento do bicarbonato, pCO2 e BE, os quais diminuíram significativamente nos momentos subsequentes, assim como o pH sanguíneo. A concentração de glicose apresentou aumento significativo no G2 em comparação ao G1, enquanto o BHBA e o NEFA estavam estatisticamente diminuídos. Ambas as técnicas restauraram o fluxo abomasal e o consumo de alimentos em ambos os grupos. Baseado no equilíbrio ácido-base, a técnica de laparoscopia não demonstrou vantagens sobre a técnica cirúrgica tradicional.(AU)

Serosurvey of bluetongue, caprine arthritis-encephalitis (CAE) and Maedi-Visna in Barbary sheep (Ammotragus lervia) of a southern Brazilian zoo / Estudo sorológico dos vírus da língua azul, da artrite-encefalite caprina e Maedi-Visna em aoudads (Ammotragus lervia) em um zoológico do Sul do Brasil

Bluetongue (BT) is an infectious and non-contagious disease of compulsory notification which may affect domestic and wild ruminants, transmitted by Culicoides spp. midges. Despite the high morbidity and mortality in sheep, role of wild animals in the BT cycle remains unclear. Caprine arthritis-encephalitis (CAE) and Maedi-Visna virus (MVV) have been reportedly found in goats and sheep, but not described in wildlife species. Accordingly, serum samples from 17 captive Barbary sheep (Ammotragus lervia) from Curitiba zoo, southern Brazil, were tested for bluetongue, caprine arthritis-encephalitis (CAE) and Maedi-Visna viruses by agar gel immunodiffusion (AGID) and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Antibodies for bluetongue were observed in 6/17 (35.3%) Barbary sheep by AGID test and in 7/17 (41.2%) by ELISA. All samples were negative for the presence of antibodies against caprine arthritis-encephalitis (CAE) and Maedi-Visna viruses. These findings indicate that Barbary sheep may be infected by bluetongue virus and act as wildlife reservoir in both captive and free-range environments.(AU)

A língua azul é uma doença infecciosa e não contagiosa, de notificação obrigatória, que pode afetar ruminantes domésticos e silvestres, transmitida por mosquitos do gênero Culicoides spp. Apesar da alta morbidade e mortalidade em ovelhas, o papel de animais silvestres no ciclo do vírus da língua azul é desconhecido. A artrite encefalite caprina (CAE) e Maedi-visna vírus (MVV) tem sido encontrados em cabras e ovelhas, porém não há descrição em espécies selvagens. Amostras de soro de 17 aoudads (Ammotragus lervia), mantidos em cativeiro no Zoológico de Curitiba, Sul do Brasil, foram testadas para os vírus da língua azul, da artrite encefalite caprina (CAE) e Maedi-visna, utilizando imunodifusão em gel de ágar e o teste de ELISA (enzyme linked immunosorbent assay). Foram observados anticorpos para o vírus da língua azul em 35,3% (6/17) aoudads utilizando a imunodifusão em gel de ágar e 41,2% (7/17) no ELISA. Todas as amostras foram negativas para a presença de anticorpos contra os vírus da artrite encefalite caprina e Maedi-visna. Esses resultados indicam que os aoudads podem ser infectados pelo vírus da língua azul e atuar como um reservatório silvestre tanto em cativeiro quanto em vida livre.(AU)

Fractional excretion of electrolytes and paradoxical aciduria in dairy cows with left displaced abomasum / Excreção fracionada de eletrólitos em acidúria paradoxal em vacas leiteiras com deslocamento de abomaso à esquerda

The fractional excretion of electrolytes is used to assess renal function and interpret electrolyte and acid-base imbalances. Left displaced abomasum is a common disorder in dairy cows, which causes hypokalemic, hypochloremic metabolic alkalosis. There is limited information on fractional excretion of electrolytes in cows with displaced abomasum. This study aimed to measure the fractional excretion of sodium, potassium, and chloride and paradoxical aciduria in dairy cows with displaced abomasum. Blood and urine samples were collected from 30 dairy cows before and 24, 48, and 72 h after surgery. The cows were divided into two groups (G1: laparoscopy and G2: laparotomy) with 15 cows each. The concentrations of chloride, sodium, potassium, and creatinine were measured in serum and urine. Urinary pH and packed cell volume were measured. Fractional excretion of sodium, potassium, and chloride and urinary strong ion difference [SID]urine were calculated using published formulas. Cows in both groups showed hypokalemic, metabolic alkalosis before surgery; however, hypochloremia was observed only in G2. Potassium concentration significantly increased 24, 48, and 72 h after surgery in G1 and 48 and 72 h after surgery in G2. There were no significant changes in fractional excretion of sodium, chloride, and potassium and urinary pH and [SID]urine between treatments and time points. Paradoxical aciduria was observed before and 24 h following surgery in G1. Fractional excretion and urinary SID are valuable tools to understand hypochloremic, hypokalemic alkalosis in dairy cows with displaced abomasum, as well as paradoxical aciduria and return of abomasal flux.(AU)

A excreção fracionada de eletrólitos é calculada para verificar a função renal e auxiliar na interpretação de distúrbios eletrolíticos e ácido-base. O deslocamento de abomaso à esquerda é frequente em vacas leiteiras, ocasionado alcalose hipoclorêmica e hipocalêmica. Há pouca informação na literatura sobre excreção fracionada de eletrólitos em vacas com deslocamento de abomaso. Este estudo objetivou mensurar a excreção fracionada de sódio, potássio e cloro e a acidúria paradoxal em vacas leiteiras com deslocamento abomasal. Amostras sanguíneas e urinárias foram coletadas de 30 vacas antes e 24, 48 e 72 horas após operação. As vacas foram divididas em dois grupos (G1: laparoscopia e G2: laparotomia) com 15 animais cada. As concentrações de cloro, sódio, potássio e creatinina foram dosadas no soro e urina. Mensurou-se pH urinário e o hematócrito. A excreção fracionada e diferença de íons fortes urinário [SID]urina foram calculados utilizando fórmulas publicadas. Vacas de ambos os grupos apresentaram alcalose hipocalêmica antes da operação. Não houve alterações significativas na excreção fracionada de sódio, potássio e cloro, no pH urinário e na [SID]urina entre os tratamentos e momentos. Acidúria paradoxal foi observada no G1 antes e 24h após operação. A excreção fracionada e [SID]urina são ferramentas importantes para interpretar a alcalose hipoclorêmica e hipocalêmica em vacas leiteiras com deslocamento de abomaso, como também a acidúria paradoxal e o retorno do fluxo abomasal.(AU)

Serological survey of anti-Leptospira spp. antibodies in Barbary sheep (Ammotragus lervia) at the Curitiba Zoo, southern Brazil / Estudo sorológico de anticorpos anti-Leptospira spp. em aoudads (Ammotragus lervia) no zoológico de Curitiba, sul do Brasil

Leptospirosis is a worldwide zoonosis, affecting humans, domestic and wild animals. The present study aimed to evaluate prevalence of anti-Leptospira spp. antibodies in Barbary sheep at the Curitiba zoo. Microscopic agglutination test (MAT) was performed using 17 serogroups. Antibodies against Leptospira spp. were observed in 23.5% samples and Icterohaemorrhagiae was the only prevalent serogroup. The presence of anti-Leptospira antibodies in Barbary sheep indicates exposure to leptospires; thus monitoring and preventive measures are necessary in zoo's captive animals, since they can act as sentinels of environmental exposure in an area with high movement of people.(AU)

A leptospirose é uma zoonose mundial que afeta seres humanos, animais domésticos e selvagens. O presente estudo objetivou avaliar a prevalência de anticorpos anti-Leptospira spp. em aoudads do zoológico de Curitiba. Foi realizado o teste de Soroaglutinação microscópica (SAM) utilizando 17 sorogrupos. Anticorpos contra Leptospira spp. foram observados em 23.5% das amostras de aoudads e Icterohaemorrhagiae foi o único sorogrupo prevalente. A presença de anticorpos em aoudads indica exposição a leptospiras portanto monitoramento e medidas preventivas são necessários em animais confinados em zoológicos, uma vez eles podem atuar como sentinelas de exposição ambiental em uma área com alta circulação de pessoas.(AU)

Molecular screening for hemotropic mycoplasmas in captive Barbary sheep (Ammotragus lervia) in southern Brazil.

AIM: This study is part of an active surveillance program for monitoring animal health status in endangered species, and was conducted to screen captive Barbary sheep (Ammotragus lervia) for hemoplasma infection. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 12 blood samples were collected, DNA extracted and further tested by a pan-hemoplasma polymerase chain reaction protocol. RESULTS: Animals were clinically healthy and not infested by ectoparasites. Although housekeeping gene DNA was successfully amplified, all the Barbary sheep samples tested negative for Mycoplasma sp. CONCLUSION: Notwithstanding the negative results, molecular pathogen surveys on Barbary sheep and other exotic wild mammals may provide insights regarding infection of endangered species caused by captivity stress in association with exposure to new pathogens worldwide.

Ehrlichia sp. infection in carthorses of low-income owners, Southern Brazil.

Although well established in dogs, Ehrlichia sp. infection has been scarcely reported in horses. The aim was to perform a comprehensive serological and molecular survey for the detection of Ehrlichia spp. in carthorses from Southern Brazil. Blood samples from 190 carthorses from Paraná State were sampled. Horses were also tested for Borrelia burgdorferi and Anaplasma phagocytophilum. Anti-Ehrlichia sp. antibodies were detected by a commercial rapid ELISA, and immunofluorescence antibody assays (IFA) with E. chaffeensis and E. canis as crude antigens. The molecular and phylogenetic analysis of Ehrlichia sp. was based on 16S rRNA and dsb genes. A total of 52 (27.4%), 4 (2.1%), and 3 (1.6%) horses were positive for Ehrlichia spp., Anaplasma spp. and Borrelia burgdorferi, respectively, by the commercial rapid ELISA. Thirty-eight (20.0%) and 37 (19.5%) horses showed anti-E. chaffeensis and anti-E. canis antibodies by IFA, respectively. One blood sample that also showed anti-E. chaffeensis antibodies was PCR positive for the 16S rRNA and dsb genes of Ehrlichia spp., showing an identity of>98.0% to the uncultured Ehrlichia sp. previously detected in Brazilian jaguars (Panthera onca). Anti-Ehrlichia sp. antibodies and Ehrlichia DNA were detected in carthorses from Southern Brazil, which may post public health concerns due to intimate contact with low-income owners. This is the first report of a natural infection of this bacteria in horses from South America. Clinical signs and the tick vector remain unknown.

Bacterial microbiota of the ocular surface of captive and free-ranging microbats: Desmodus rotundus, Diameus youngi and Artibeus lituratus.

OBJECTIVES: To investigate normal aerobic bacterial microbiota of the eye surface in vvcaptive and free-ranging bats belonging to the suborder Microchiroptera. ANIMALS STUDIED: A total of 36 bats belonging to three different species (Desmodus rotundus, Diameus youngi, and Artibeus lituratus) were used to perform this investigation. Thirteen Diameus youngi and six Desmodus rotundus were trapped in a cave, and 17 captive Artibeus lituratus were obtained from an experimental colony. Both free-ranging and captive bats were free of apparent ocular or systemic disease. PROCEDURES: Corneal and conjunctival swabs were collected from both eyes to identify the resident bacterial microbiota. RESULTS: Seventeen bats had positive bacterial cultures in one or both eyes. Considering all isolates, Gram-positive bacteria (82.6%) predominated over those that were Gram-negative bacteria (17.4%). Coagulase-negative staphylococci (30.4%) were the most isolated genus, followed by Bacillus spp. (26%) and Corynebacterium spp. (21%). Only four Gram-negative species were isolated: Shigella spp., Hafnia alvei, Morganella morganii, and Flavobacterium odoratum. CONCLUSIONS: In this study, bacterial microbiota of the ocular surface of bats was described, and Staphylococcus spp. were the most frequently isolated type of microorganism from healthy bat eyes.

Seroepidemiological survey of Theileria equi and Babesia caballi in horses from a rural and from urban areas of Paraná State, southern Brazil.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the seroepidemiological data of Babesia caballi and Theileria equi in horses from a rural settlement and carthorses from urban areas of Paraná State, southern Brazil. A total of 198 horses, including 32 from the rural settlement and 166 carthorses from Colombo (n=48), Pinhais (n=76), Londrina (n=24), and Curitiba city (n=18) was sampled and tested using a commercial competitive inhibition ELISA (cELISA) test. Out of the 198 horses, 193 (97.5%) were seropositive for at least one piroplasm species. Antibodies to T. equi were detected in 155/198 horses (78.3%), antibodies to B. caballi were detected in 137/198 horses (69.2%), and antibodies to both were detected in 99/198 (50.0%) horses. Horses living in the rural settlement and Colombo were more likely to be seropositive to T. equi than those in Curitiba (p<0.05). Horses older than 5 years were more likely to be seropositive for T. equi than those younger than 5 years (p<0.05). No significant association was found between gender or the presence of ticks and seropositivity to T. equi (p>0.05). In conclusion, the high seroprevalences to B. caballi and T. equi observed in this study emphasize that active surveillance programs are critical for monitoring animal health status, particularly because carthorses may act as urban disseminators of these piroplasms.

Hemotropic mycoplasma in a free-ranging black howler monkey (Alouatta caraya) in Brazil.

Hemotropic mycoplasmas are bacteria that infect erythrocytes and cause subclinical infections to life-threatening disease. We describe hemotropic mycoplasma infection in a free-ranging black howler monkey (Alouatta caraya). This is the first molecular detection of a hemotropic mycoplasma in a nonhuman primate from Brazil.

Anti-Rickettsia spp. antibodies in free-ranging and captive capybaras from southern Brazil / Anticorpos anti-Rickettsia spp. em capivaras de vida livre e de cativeiro no Sul do Brasil

Capybaras (Hydrochaeris hydrochaeris) are among the main hosts of Amblyomma spp. ticks, which is able to transmit Rickettsia species to human beings and animals. Since they are often infested with potential vector ticks, capybaras may be used as sentinels for rickettsiosis, such as the Brazilian Spotted Fever. The aim of the present study was to determine the prevalence of antibodies against Rickettsia spp. using the indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA) in 21 free-ranging and 10 captive animals from the Zoological Park of the 'Bela Vista Biological Sanctuary' (BVBS), Itaipu Binational, Foz do Iguaçu, Southern Brazil. Antigens of six rickettsial species already identified in Brazil (Rickettsia rickettsii, R. parkeri, R. bellii, R. rhipicephali, R. amblyommii and R. felis) were used for IFA. Ticks from each capybara were collected for posterior taxonomic identification. A total of 19 (61.3 percent) samples reacted to at least one of tested species. Seropositivity was found in 14 (45.2 percent), 12 (38.7 percent), 5 (16.1 percent), 4 (12.9 percent), 3 (9.7 percent) and 3 (9.7 percent) animals for R. rickettsii, R. bellii, R. parkeri, R. amblyommii, R. felis and R. rhipicephali, respectively. Two captive capybaras presented suggestive titers of R. rickettsii infection and one sample showed homologous reaction to R. parkeri. Only one free-ranging capybara presented evidence R. bellii infection. Ticks collected on capybaras were identified as Amblyomma dubitatum e Amblyomma sp. Results evidenced the rickettsial circulation in the area, suggesting a potential role of capybaras on bacterial life cycle.

As capivaras (Hydrochaeris hydrochaeris) estão entre os principais hospedeiros do carrapato Amblyomma spp., o qual pode transmitir algumas espécies de riquétsias para seres humanos e animais. Como são frequentemente infestadas por carrapatos vetores potenciais, as capivaras podem ser usadas como sentinelas para riquetsioses, como a Febre Maculosa Brasileira. O objetivo do presente estudo foi determinar a soroprevalência de Rickettsia spp. por meio da reação de Imunofluorescência Indireta (RIFI) em 21 capivaras de vida livre e 10 capivaras de cativeiro do Zoológico do Refúgio Biológico Bela Vista, Itaipu Binacional, Foz do Iguaçu, Brasil. Antígenos de seis espécies de riquétsias já identi[1]icadas no Brasil (Rickettsia rickettsii, R. parkeri, R. bellii, R. rhipicephali, R. amblyommii e R. felis) foram utilizados para a RIFI. Carrapatos de cada capivara foram coletados para posterior identi[1]icação taxonômica. Um total de 19 (61,3 por cento) amostras reagiu a pelo menos uma das espécies testadas. Foi encontrada soropositividade em 14 (45,2 por cento), 12 (38,7 por cento), 5 (16,1 por cento), 4 (12,9 por cento), 3 (9,7 por cento) e 3 (9,7 por cento) animais para R. rickettsii, R. bellii, R. parkeri, R. amblyommii, R. felis e R. rhipicephali, respectivamente. Duas capivaras de cativeiro apresentaram títulos sugestivos de infecção por R. rickettsii e uma amostra apresentou reação homóloga frente à R. parkeri. Apenas uma capivara de vida livre apresentou evidência de infecção por R. bellii. Os carrapatos coletados sobre as capivaras foram identificados como Amblyomma dubitatum e Amblyomma sp. Os resultados evidenciam a circulação de riquétsias na região, sugerindo uma potencial participação da capivara no ciclo de vida desta bactéria.

Detection of a novel hemoplasma based on 16S rRNA gene DNA in captive and free-ranging capybaras (Hydrochaeris hydrochaeris).

Two different species of hemoplasmas, Mycoplasma coccoides and M. haemomuris, are known to infect small rodents such as mice and rats. However, there are no previous reports of hemoplasma infection in capybara (Hydrochaeris hydrochaeris). The aim of our study was to determine whether these hemoplasmas might infect capybaras from Southern Brazil. Blood samples from 31 animals: 10 captive and 21 free-ranging capybaras were collected and packed cell volume and total plasma protein were measured. DNA was extracted and PCR assays for M. coccoides and M. haemomuris were performed. Using the M. coccoides-PCR assay 64% of the capybaras were positive, 80% free-ranging and 30% from captive animals. The prevalence of infection between the groups was significantly different (p=0.001). Sequencing of the nearly entire 16S rRNA gene from the positive samples suggested a novel hemoplasma isolate with identity of 92% with M. coccoides and 86% with M. haemomuris. All capybara samples were negative for M. haemomuris infection. DNA of a housekeeping gene was successfully amplified from all samples. This is the first evidence of a hemoplasma infection in capybaras.