Development of copper hatch baskets and evaluation of the productive indexes of a commercial hatchery

Background: The dissemination of pathogenic microorganisms in hatcheries leads to a higher number of contaminated eggs, causing reduction in hatchability and increase of discarded chicks. Sanitation programs are crucial for maximum hatchability and chick quality. Efforts have been made to find alternative approaches to the conventional disinfectants, and surfaces with copper, which have antimicrobial properties, could assist in this process. However, the possible adverse effects of copper surfaces on chicks in hatcheries have not yet been evaluated. The present study aimed at developing hatch baskets composed of copper and evaluating the effect of these baskets on the productive indexes of a hatchery. Materials, Methods & Results: For this experiment, 3.15 kg hatch tray prototypes with 99.9% Cu (Cu11000) were developed to fit inside conventional polypropylene hatch baskets (580 × 755 × 83 mm). Six polypropylene hatch baskets (control group) and six polypropylene hatch baskets covered by 99.9% copper (Cu11000) hatch trays (test group) were evaluated during 5 hatchings. Hatched eggs and chicks remained in contact with the hatch basket surfaces for at least 72 h, corresponding to the entire period in which they were located in the hatcher. Cleaning and disinfection programs of the hatchery were not modified. The level of microbial contamination on the hatch baskets was evaluated at 6 different periods: 0 h (initial contamination after disinfection and egg transfer to the trays); 24 h, 30 h, 45 h and 60 h after the first sampling; and at the moment when chicks were removed from the hatching cabinet and transferred to the chick-holding room (> 60 h). Counting of total moulds and yeasts, mesophilic microorganisms, Enterobacteria and Escherichia coli colonies was performed. The number of hatched chicks, non-hatched eggs, and chicks discarded were registered for each hatching. Microbiologic analyses showed no growth on hatch baskets neither of the..

Occurrence of Amblyomma longirostre in Cyanocompsa brissonii in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil / Ocorrência de Amblyomma longirostre em Cyanocompsa brissonii no Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil

Ticks are arthropods that are highly competent in transmitting pathogens to animals and humans. Among these, the genus Amblyomma is the most representative within the Neotropics. Amblyomma longirostre ticks are naturally distributed in countries of South, Central and North America. Their immature stages preferentially parasitize birds (Passeriformes), while adult stages are usually found on rodents. Therefore, reports of this tick species on wild hosts is epidemiologically relevant, especially because of these ticks' potential for transmitting pathogens to other wild and domestic animals, and also to humans. Thus, the aim of this study was to report infestation by Amblyomma longirostre on Cyanocompsa brissonii in southern Brazil.

Os carrapatos são artrópodes que apresentam elevada competência na transmissão de patógenos para animais e humanos. Entre esses, o gênero Amblyomma é o mais representativo dentro da região neotropical. Ixodídeos como Amblyomma longirostre estão distribuídos em países da América do Sul, Central e do Norte. Os estágios imaturos desta espécie parasitam preferencialmente aves (Passeriformes) e estágios adultos são encontrados principalmente em roedores. Logo, o registro de espécies de carrapatos em hospedeiros silvestres é epidemiologicamente relevante, devido ao potencial de transmissão dos patógenos a outros animais silvestres, domésticos e ao homem. Assim, o objetivo deste estudo foi relatar o parasitismo por Amblyomma longirostre em Cyanocompsa brissonii no sul do Brasil.

Occurrence of Amblyomma longirostre in Cyanocompsa brissonii in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil / Ocorrência de Amblyomma longirostre em Cyanocompsa brissonii no Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil

Ticks are arthropods that are highly competent in transmitting pathogens to animals and humans. Among these, the genus Amblyomma is the most representative within the Neotropics. Amblyomma longirostre ticks are naturally distributed in countries of South, Central and North America. Their immature stages preferentially parasitize birds (Passeriformes), while adult stages are usually found on rodents. Therefore, reports of this tick species on wild hosts is epidemiologically relevant, especially because of these ticks' potential for transmitting pathogens to other wild and domestic animals, and also to humans. Thus, the aim of this study was to report infestation by Amblyomma longirostre on Cyanocompsa brissonii in southern Brazil.(AU)

Os carrapatos são artrópodes que apresentam elevada competência na transmissão de patógenos para animais e humanos. Entre esses, o gênero Amblyomma é o mais representativo dentro da região neotropical. Ixodídeos como Amblyomma longirostre estão distribuídos em países da América do Sul, Central e do Norte. Os estágios imaturos desta espécie parasitam preferencialmente aves (Passeriformes) e estágios adultos são encontrados principalmente em roedores. Logo, o registro de espécies de carrapatos em hospedeiros silvestres é epidemiologicamente relevante, devido ao potencial de transmissão dos patógenos a outros animais silvestres, domésticos e ao homem. Assim, o objetivo deste estudo foi relatar o parasitismo por Amblyomma longirostre em Cyanocompsa brissonii no sul do Brasil.(AU)

First phylogenetic analysis of Avipoxvirus (APV) in Brazil / Primeira análise filogenética de Avipoxvirus (APV) no Brasil

This study represents the first phylogenetic analysis of avian poxvirus recovered from turkeys in Brazil. The clinical disorders related to fowlpox herein described occurred in a turkey housing system. The birds displaying characteristic pox lesions which were observed on the neck, eyelids and beak of the turkeys. Four affected turkeys were randomly chosen, euthanized and necropsied. Tissues samples were submitted for histopathological analysis and total DNA was further extracted, amplified by conventional PCR, sequenced and phylogenetically analyzed. Avian poxviruses specific PCR was performed based on P4b core protein gene sequence. The histological analysis revealed dermal inflammatory process, granulation tissue, hyperplasia of epithelial cells and inclusion bodies. The P4b gene was detected in all samples. Sequencing revealed a 100% nucleotide and amino acid sequence identity among the samples, and the sequences were deposited in GenBank®. The four Avian poxviruses fragments sequenced in this study clustered along the A1 clade of avipoxviruses, and were classified as Avipoxvirus (APV). Additional studies, such as virus isolation, PCR and sequencing includinga large number of specimens from the Brazilian turkey production must be conducted due to the hazardous risk that poxvirus infections may cause to the Brazilian poultry production scenario, given that Brazil's turkey production attracts attention due to its economic importance worldwide. Our findings point to the need to identify the prevalence of APV in Brazilian turkey production, to perform risk assessment studies and continued surveillance of APV infections in both wild and commercial avian species.(AU)

Este trabalho representa a primeira análise filogenética de Poxvirus aviário detectado em perus no Brasil. Os distúrbios clínicos relacionados com bouba aviária aqui descritos ocorreram em um sistema de alojamento de perus. As aves apresentaram lesões características de varíola observadas no pescoço, pálpebras e bico das aves. Quatro perus com sinais característicos foram escolhidos aleatoriamente, sacrificados e submetidos à autópsia. Amostras de tecido foram submetidas à análise histopatológica e o DNA total foi extraído, amplificado por PCR convencional e os amplicons foram sequenciados e analisados ​​filogeneticamente. A PCR específica para Poxvírus aviário foi realizada com base na seqüência do gene da proteína do núcleo P4b. A análise histológica revelou um processo inflamatório dérmico, tecido de granulação, hiperplasia de células epiteliais e corpúsculos de inclusão. O gene P4b foi detectado em todas as amostras. O sequenciamento revelou uma identidade entre nucleotídeos e aminoácido de 100% entre as amostras e as sequências foram depositadas no GenBank®. Os quatro fragmentos de poxvírus aviário sequenciado neste estudo foram agrupados no clado A1 de avipoxvirus e foram classificados como Avipoxvirus (APV). Estudos adicionais, como isolamento viral, PCR e sequenciamento, incluindo um grande número de perus da produção brasileira devem ser conduzidos devido ao grave risco que a infecção por poxvírus pode causar ao cenário de produção avícola brasileira, tendo em vista que a produção brasileira de perus atrai atenção devido a sua importância mundial. Nossos resultados apontam para a necessidade de identificar a prevalência da APV na produção de peru no Brasil, para realizar estudos de avaliação de risco e continuada monitoração de infecções por APV nas espécies de aves comerciais e silvestres.(AU)

Dynamics of Rickettsia parkeri infection in domestic chickens / Dinâmica da infecção por Rickettsia parkeri em galinhas domésticas

The aim of the present study was to investigate experimental infections by Rickettsia parkeri in domestic chickens (Gallus gallus domesticus) and to determine the dynamics of antibody production during acute and chronic infection. The animals (n = 64) were allocated into eight groups as follows: G1, inoculated intramuscularly (IM) with 2.5 × 105 Vero cells (1 mL) infected with R. parkeri; G2, inoculated IM with 5.0 × 105 Vero cells (2 mL) infected with R. parkeri; G3, received 1 mL of the inoculum subcutaneously (SC); G4, received 2 mL of inoculum SC; G5, received 1 mL of the inoculum intraperitoneally (IP); G6, injected with 2 mL of the inoculum IP; G7 and G8, received 1 mL and 2 mL of culture medium IM, respectively (negative control groups). All R. parkeri inocula were viable prior to inoculation in the birds. In order to assess the dynamics of antibody production in acute and chronic infection, sera of chickens were collected 3, 7, 14, and 21 d post infection (PI) and assessed using an immunofluorescence antibody test (IFAT). In addition, PCR (gltA gene) was performed using fragments of spleen and lung from euthanized chickens to detect the replication of R. parkeri in tissues during the experimental period. Animals from the G4 and G3 groups exhibited the highest mean antibody titers, with maximum levels observed at 7 and 14 d PI, respectively. Conversely, G2, G4 and G6 exhibited higher meanantibody titers than G1, G3 and G5, respectively. Antibody titers were dose-dependent. Rickettsial DNAwas not detected in either spleen or lung tissue. The present study demonstrated that birds seroconvertafter being challenged by R. parkeri. However, there was no replication of the agent in the tissues analyzed and rickettsemia was not observed.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a infecção experimental por Rickettsia parkeri em galinhas domésticas (Gallus gallus domesticus) e investigar a dinâmica de anticorpos. Para tanto, foram utilizadas 64 galinhas criadas extensivamente divididas em oito grupos: G1 - inoculado com 2,5 x 105 células Vero (1 ml) infectadas por R. parkeri via intramuscular (IM); G2 5,0 x 105 células Vero (2 ml) infectadas por R. parkeri via IM; G3 - 1 ml do inóculo via subcutânea (SC); G4 - 2 ml de inóculo via SC; G5 1 ml do inóculo via intraperitoneal (IP); G6 - 2 ml de inóculo via IP, e G7 e G8 - 1 e 2 ml de meio de cultivo de células Vero via IM, respectivamente representando os grupos controles negativos. Ressaltase que todos os inóculos de R. parkeri estavam viáveis no momento da inoculação. Os soros das aves foram coletados aos 3, 7, 14 e 21 dias pós-infecção (PI) e testadas por reação de imunofluorescência indireta (RIFI) para avaliar a dinâmica de anticorpos na infecção aguda e crônica. A identificação da multiplicação de R. parkeri nos tecidos, no mesmo período PI, foi realizada por PCR, para um fragmento do gene gltA, em amostras de baço e pulmão provenientes das galinhas eutanasiadas. As aves do G4 e G3 apresentaram as maiores médias de anticorpos obtendo os níveis mais elevados aos sete e 14 dias PI, respectivamente. G2, G4 e G6 apresentaram médias de anticorpos superiores comparados aos G1, G3 eG5 respectivamente, sendo considerada a infecção dose-dependente. Não foi detectado DNA rickettsial nos tecidos avaliados. No presente trabalho foi possível demonstrar que as aves soroconverteram mediante o desafio da inoculação por R. parkeri, todavia não houve a identificação do agente nos tecidos analisados, bem como a presença de rickettsemia.(AU)

El cobre como superficie de contacto antimicrobiana y su potencial aplicación en la Medicina Veterinária / The copper as an antimicrobial touch surface and its potential application in Veterinary Medicine / O cobre como superfície de contato antimicrobiana e sua potencial aplicação na medicina veterinária

El cobre metálico ha atraído atención desde 2008, cuando casi 300 aleaciones fueron registradas por la agencia estadounidense Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) como superficies de contacto antimicrobianas. Escherichia coli O157: H7; Staphylococcus aureus meticilina resistente (MRSA); Clostridium difficile; Salmonella enterica; Campylobacter jejuni; Listeria monocytogenes; Candida albicans e Influenza A (H1N1) están entre los microorganismos comprobadamente inactivados por el cobre. Ensayos hospitalarios demostraron una reducción de 58% de las infecciones nosocomiales en pacientes de Unidades de Cuidados Intensivos (UCI) en habitaciones equipadas con superficies de cobre. El presente trabajo tuvo por objetivo evaluar la posibilidad de introducir esas superficies en diversas áreas de la veterinaria a través de una revisión bibliográfica de los principales estudios realizados a respecto del cobre y de sus aleaciones. Con base en las propiedades bactericidas, fungicidas y virucidas encontradas, se puede inferir la cantidad de beneficios que el cobre puede traer a la medicina veterinaria tanto en la producción animal como en seguridad de los alimentos y la salud pública. La aplicación de las superficies antimicrobianas podrá resultar en menores tasas de infecciones y menor uso de antibióticos, reducción de costos con tratamiento, mejor desempeño zootécnico y reducción de la transmisión de zoonosis.(AU)

The metallic copper has attracted attention since 2008, when nearly 300 alloys were registered by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as antimicrobial touch surfaces. Escherichia coli O157:H7; Staphylococcus aureus methicillin-resistant (MRSA); Clostridium difficile; Salmonella enterica; Campylobacter jejuni; Listeria monocytogenes; Candida albicans and Influenza A (H1N1) have proven to be inactivated by copper. Hospital assays showed a 58% reduction of nosocomial infections in intensive care units (ICU) in rooms with copper surfaces. This study aimed to assess the possibility of introducing these surfaces in various areas of veterinary medicine through a review of major studies with regard to copper and its alloys. Based on the bactericidal, fungicide and virucide properties found, it can be inferred that the amount of benefits that copper may bring to veterinary medicine, regarding livestock as well as for food safety and public health. The application of antimicrobial surfaces could result in lower rates of infections and less antibiotic use, reduce treatment costs, better production performance and reducing transmission of zoonosis.(AU)

O cobre metálico tem atraído atenção desde 2008, quando quase 300 ligas foram registrada pela agência norte-americana Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) como superfícies de contato antimicrobianas. Escherichia coli O157:H7; Staphylococcus aureus meticilina-resistente (MRSA); Clostridium difficile; Salmonella enterica; Campylobacter jejuni; Listeria monocytogenes; Candida albicans e Influenza A (H1N1) estão entre os microrganismos comprovadamente inativados pelo cobre. Ensaios hospitalares demonstraram uma redução de 58% das infecções nosocomiais em pacientes de Unidades de Terapia Intensiva (UTI) em quartos equipados com superfícies de cobre. O objetivo do trabalho foi avaliar a possibilidade da introdução dessas superfícies nas diversas áreas da veterinária através de uma revisão bibliográfica dos principais estudos realizados a respeito do cobre e de suas ligas. Com base nas propriedades bactericidas, fungicidas e virucidas encontradas, pode-se inferir a quantidade de benefícios que o cobre pode trazer à medicina veterinária, tanto na produção animal, quanto em segurança dos alimentos e saúde pública. A aplicação das superfícies antimicrobianas poderá resultar em menores taxas de infecções e menor uso de antibióticos, redução de custos com tratamento, melhor desempenho zootécnico e redução da transmissão de zoonoses.(AU)

Detecção dos genes codificantes da toxina CDT, e pesquisa de fatores que influenciam na produção de hemolisinas em amostras de Campylobacter jejuni de origem avícola / Detection of the genes encoding the toxin CDT, and research factors which influence the production of hemolysin in Campylobacter jejuni from poultry products

Membros termofílicos do gênero Campylobacter são reconhecidos como importantes enteropatógenos para o ser humano e animais. A grande diversidade ecológica destes micro-organismos em diferentes habitats tais como água, animais e alimentos predispõem ao aparecimento de novos fatores de virulência. Este trabalho teve por objetivo detectar os genes codificantes da Toxina Distensiva Citoletal (CDT) por meio da técnica de PCR, pesquisar a atividade de hemolisinas e a influência de soluções quelantes e de íons nesta atividade. Foram utilizadas 45 amostras de Campylobacter jejuni de origem avícola para pesquisa de atividade hemolítica, cultivadas em Caldo Triptona de Soja (TSB). Após o crescimento bacteriano, as amostras foram semeadas em Ágar tríptico de soja (TSA) contendo 5% de sangue de ovino. Para verificar a influência de agentes quelantes e solução de íons na atividade hemolítica, as amostras de C. jejuni foram cultivadas em TSB contendo separadamente os quelantes EDTA, ácido acético, soluções de íons CaCl2, MgCl2 e FeCl3, em atmosfera de microaerofilia. Quanto à atividade de hemolisina de C. jejuni em placas de TSA - sangue ovino foi possível observar que houve hemólise em 40% das amostras analisadas apenas com caldo TSB. Somente o ácido acético apresentou ação quelante sobre a atividade de hemolisinas em amostras de C. jejuni semeadas em placas de TSA - sangue ovino. Para detecção dos genes cdtA, cdtB e cdtC através da técnica da Reação em Cadeia da Polimerase (PCR) foram utilizadas 119 amostras de C. jejuni de origem avícola. Foi possível observar que 37,8% possuíam o perfil de genes cdtABC. Os resultados demonstraram em amostras avícolas a presença de cepas de C. jejuni com potencial virulento, devido à presença dos genes da toxina CDT e potencial hemolítico, que apresentou ação reduzida in vitro com ácido acético.(AU)

Thermophilic members of the Campylobacter genus are recognized as important enteropathogenics for humans and animals. The great variety of ecological habitats, such as water, food and milk, may promote new virulence factors. To detect the encoding genes distending cytolethal toxin (CDT) by PCR and study the hemolytic activity with influence of chelation solutions and ions, 45 Campylobacter jejuni samples from poultry production origin were used to perform the hemolytic research. To check the influence of chelation agents and solution of ions in the hemolytic activity, samples of C. jejuni strains were grown in tryptone soy broth TSB containing chelation agents separately EDTA, acetic acid, CaCl2, MgCl2 and FeCl3 ions solutions in microaerophilic atmosphere and then streaked on 5% sheep blood tryptic soy agar (TSA). To perform the detection of cdtA, cdtB and cdtC genes the technique of Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) was used in 119 samples of C. jejuni from poultry production origin. We found 40% of samples showing hemolysis after growing with TSB. Only the acetic acid showed reduction in hemolysis. The prevalent gene profile was cdtABC in 37.8 % of the samples. It was observed that the results showed the presence of C. jejuni strains with virulent potential, due to presence of the CDT toxin genes and the hemolytic activity, which showed in vitro reduced when acetic acid was added.(AU)

Detecção dos genes codificantes da toxina CDT, e pesquisa de fatores que influenciam na produção de hemolisinas em amostras de Campylobacter jejuni de origem avícola

Abstract: Thermophilic members of the Campylobacter genus are recognized as important enteropathogenics for humans and animals. The great variety of ecological habitats, such as water, food and milk, may promote new virulence factors. To detect the encoding genes distending cytolethal toxin (CDT) by PCR and study the hemolytic activity with influence of chelation solutions and ions, 45 Campylobacter jejuni samples from poultry production origin were used to perform the hemolytic research. To check the influence of chelation agents and solution of ions in the hemolytic activity, samples of C. jejuni strains were grown in tryptone soy broth TSB containing chelation agents separately EDTA, acetic acid, CaCl2, MgCl2 and FeCl3 ions solutions in microaerophilic atmosphere and then streaked on 5% sheep blood tryptic soy agar (TSA). To perform the detection of cdtA, cdtB and cdtC genes the technique of Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) was used in 119 samples of C. jejuni from poultry production origin. We found 40% of samples showing hemolysis after growing with TSB. Only the acetic acid showed reduction in hemolysis. The prevalent gene profile was cdtABC in 37.8 % of the samples. It was observed that the results showed the presence of C. jejuni strains with virulent potential, due to presence of the CDT toxin genes and the hemolytic activity, which showed in vitro reduced when acetic acid was added.

Resumo: Membros termofílicos do gênero Campylobacter são reconhecidos como importantes enteropatógenos para o ser humano e animais. A grande diversidade ecológica destes micro-organismos em diferentes habitats tais como água, animais e alimentos predispõem ao aparecimento de novos fatores de virulência. Este trabalho teve por objetivo detectar os genes codificantes da Toxina Distensiva Citoletal (CDT) por meio da técnica de PCR, pesquisar a atividade de hemolisinas e a influência de soluções quelantes e de íons nesta atividade. Foram utilizadas 45 amostras de Campylobacter jejuni de origem avícola para pesquisa de atividade hemolítica, cultivadas em Caldo Triptona de Soja (TSB). Após o crescimento bacteriano, as amostras foram semeadas em Ágar tríptico de soja (TSA) contendo 5% de sangue de ovino. Para verificar a influência de agentes quelantes e solução de íons na atividade hemolítica, as amostras de C. jejuni foram cultivadas em TSB contendo separadamente os quelantes EDTA, ácido acético, soluções de íons CaCl2, MgCl2 e FeCl3, em atmosfera de microaerofilia. Quanto à atividade de hemolisina de C. jejuni em placas de TSA - sangue ovino foi possível observar que houve hemólise em 40% das amostras analisadas apenas com caldo TSB. Somente o ácido acético apresentou ação quelante sobre a atividade de hemolisinas em amostras de C. jejuni semeadas em placas de TSA - sangue ovino. Para detecção dos genes cdtA, cdtB e cdtC através da técnica da Reação em Cadeia da Polimerase (PCR) foram utilizadas 119 amostras de C. jejuni de origem avícola. Foi possível observar que 37,8% possuíam o perfil de genes cdtABC. Os resultados demonstraram em amostras avícolas a presença de cepas de C. jejuni com potencial virulento, devido à presença dos genes da toxina CDT e potencial hemolítico, que apresentou ação reduzida in vitro com ácido acético.

Ocorrência de micoses e pitiose em animais domésticos: 230 casos / Occurrence of mycoses and pythiosis in domestic animals: 230 cases

A retrospective study was performed to determine the main mycoses and oomycosis that affected domestic animals diagnosed in the Laboratório de Patologia Veterinária (LPV) of the Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM). A total of 29,686 exams (9,487 necropsy reports and 20,199 biopsy reports) performed between January 1990 and December 2012 were analyzed. Two hundred and thirty cases (78% of mycoses and 22% of pythiosis) were found. Data about epidemiology, clinical signs, gross and histologic lesions were obtained from the reports. In two cases the fungi observed were not identified. The main diseases observed, in descending order of prevalence, were: pythiosis, candidiasis, aspergillosis, zygomycosis, dermatophytosis, mallasseziosis, cryptococcosis, megabacteriosis, and sporothrichosis. Others diseases with only one cases each were histoplasmosis and pneumocystosis. Pythiosis affected mainly horses and the mycosis affected mainly companion animals (dogs and cats).(AU)

Para determinar as principais micoses e oomicoses que acometeram animais domésticos na área de abrangência do Laboratório de Patologia Veterinária (LPV) da Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM), foi realizado um estudo retrospectivo em 9.487 protocolos de necropsias e 20.199 exames histopatológicos (totalizando 29.686 casos), realizados no LPV-UFSM, entre janeiro de 1990 e dezembro de 2012. Do total de protocolos analisados, 230 apresentaram micoses ou pitiose (oomicose), sendo 179 casos (78%) de micoses e 51 casos (22%) de pitiose. Os protocolos foram revisados para determinar os principais achados referentes à epidemiologia, sinais clínicos e às alterações macroscópicas e microscópicas. Em dois casos (0,8%) não foi possível determinar o gênero ou o grupo do fungo observado. As principais doenças diagnosticadas, em ordem decrescente de prevalência, foram: pitiose, candidíase, aspergilose, zigomicose, dermatofitose, malasseziose, criptococose, megabacteriose e esporotricose. Outras doenças diagnosticadas numa única ocorrência cada foram histoplasmose e pneumocistose. Os equinos foram os mais acometidos pela pitiose e os animais de companhia (cães e gatos) foram os mais acometidos pelas micoses.(AU)

Isospora bocamontensis (Protozoa: Apicomplexa) in captive yellow cardinal Gubernatrix cristata (Passeriformes: Emberezidae) / Isospora bocamontensis (Protozoa: Apicomplexa) em cardeais-amarelo Gubernatrix cristata (Passeriformes: Emberezidae) mantidos em cativeiro

The yellow cardinal (Gubernatrix cristata) is a passerine found in southern Brazil, especially along the border with Uruguay and Argentina. It is an endangered species and its population is decreasing. Among the parasites that affect passerines, the genus Isospora is the most easily found in both captive and free-living birds. This parasite commonly causes injury to the intestinal tissue and could occasionally affect other organs. In this work we examined the occurrence of coccidiosis in captive yellow cardinals and its association with factors such as sex, use of parasiticides, type of enclosure, contact with feces, type of food and cleaning frequency. We collected fecal samples of 45 yellow cardinals, healthy and kept in captivity, in late afternoon at the end of the reproductive period. The examination showed parasitic infection by Isospora bocamontensis in 44.5% of the birds. This infection is not influenced by the sex of birds, but is significantly affected by the type of enclosure, contact with the feces, use of parasiticides, type of food and cleaning frequency. The results indicate that to keep yellow cardinals captive, these factors must be observed.(AU)

O cardeal-amarelo (Gubernatrix cristata) é um pássaro que ocorre no sul do Brasil, principalmente na fronteira com Uruguai e Argentina. É uma ave ameaçada de extinção e sua população está decrescendo. Dentre, os parasitas que afetam a ordem Passeriformes, o gênero Isospora está entre o mais encontrado, tanto em aves de cativeiro quanto em aves de vida-livre. Comumente causam injúrias no tecido intestinal, podendo ocasionalmente afetar outros órgãos. Neste trabalho examinamos a ocorrência de coccidiose em cardeais mantidos em cativeiro e verificamos sua associação com fatores como sexo, uso de produtos parasiticidas, tipo de recinto, contato com fezes, tipo de alimentação e frequência de limpeza. Foram coletadas amostras de fezes, ao entardecer, de 45 cardeais-amarelos, hígidos, mantidos em cativeiro, no final do período reprodutivo. O exame coproparasitológico revelou infecção parasitária por Isospora bocamontensis, em 44,5% das aves. Esta infecção não é influenciada pelo sexo das aves, mas é significativamente afetada pelo tipo de recinto, contato com as fezes, uso de parasiticidas, tipo de alimentação e frequência de limpeza. Indicando que para a manutenção em cativeiro estes fatores devem ser observados.(AU)

Detecção de fatores de virulência de Escherichia coli e análise de Salmonella spp. em psitacídeos / Detection of virulence factors in Escherichia coli and analysis of Salmonella spp. in psittacines

The enteric flora of psittacines is mainly composed of Gram positive bacteria. Gram negative bacteria, like Escherichia coli and Salmonella spp., have a high pathogenic potential and can be considerate as an indicative of management problems that may culminate in disease manifestation due to stress factors, poor diets and overcrowding, in combination with a high bacterial load on the environment. The objective of this study was evaluated the presence of Salmonella spp., Escherichia coli and the virulence genes iss and iutA from E. coli isolates. Forty-four samples were analyzed from psittacines living in captivity, which fifteen samples were from organs fragments of necropsied birds, and twenty-nine were from cloacal and crop swabs of red-spectacled parrots (Amazona pretrei) keeping in captivity. No samples were positive for Salmonella spp. In the samples in which E. coli was detected, both virulence factors (genes iss and iutA) were present.(AU)

A flora entérica dos psitacídeos é composta principalmente por bactérias Gram positivas. Bactérias Gram negativas, como Escherichia coli e Salmonella spp., apresentam elevado potencial patogênico, sendo consideradas indicativo de problemas de manejo, que poderão culminar em manifestação de doenças em decorrência de fatores estressantes, dietas deficientes e superlotação, combinados com alta carga bacteriana no ambiente. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a presença de Salmonella spp., Escherichia coli e os fatores de virulência dos genes iss e iutA dos isolados de E. coli. Analisou-se um total de 44 amostras provenientes de psitacídeos criados em cativeiro, sendo estas 15 fragmentos de órgãos de aves submetidas a exame de necropsia e também 29 amostras de swabs de cloaca e inglúvio de papagaios-charão (Amazona pretrei) criados em cativeiro. Nenhuma amostra foi positiva para Salmonella spp. Nas amostras de E. coli detectou-se ambos os fatores de virulência pesquisados.(AU)

Evaluation of Beauveria bassiana (986) as a biological control of Alphitobius diaperinus in poultry bed of wood shavings

Background: Alphitobius diaperinus, lesser mealworm, represents one of the most important pests in the poultry farming industry worldwide. This insect serves as a mechanical host of pathogenic micro-organisms to birds and causes injuries in their digestive tract affecting the feed conversion. Both larvae and adult insects grow in the avian bed, over the soil of sheds and especially near the feeders, where there is a greater availability of food and water. Alphitobius diaperinus control, around the world and especially in Brazil, is based exclusively on chemical agents which generates resistant populations. The biological control by entomopathogenic fungi has been shown to be feasible and satisfactory when tested in vitro testing in the recent years. However it still lacks tests to evaluate these agents in environments that simulate field conditions. So, the aim of this experiment was to evaluate a Beauveria bassiana (986) as a way of biological control of A. diaperinus in poultry bed of wood shavings. Material, Methods & Results: Alphitobius diaperinus were collected from a poultry shed located in Garibaldi in Rio Grande do Sul and sent to the Laboratório Central de Diagnósticos em Patologias Aviárias (LCDPA), Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM). Then they were cultivated in plastic boxes on the poultry bed and fed as the recommended protocol. The Beauveria bassiana (986), isolated from ticks, was purchased from the Department of Entomology of ESALQ/USP and cultivated on Potato Dextrose Agar medium (PDA) at 27ºC, 80% RH for 4 days before the experiment. The conidia suspension was obtained through scraping cultivation with aqueous solution of Triton X-100 (0.01%) in the concentration of 3,83 x 108 mL-¹. Six plastic boxes were used, containing 8 cm of soil and 10 cm of sterile wood shavings in order to allocate the beetles. In each box, 400 insects (100 larvae and 300 adults) were divided into two groups - G1: 3 boxes treated with 27 mL of suspension conidia (3,83 x 108 mL-¹) and G2: 3 boxes treated with aqueous solution of triton x-100 0.01% - assisted by 7 days in an average temperature of 32.5°C and 72.4% RH and, after this period, the mortality of both larvae and adults was evaluated. There was no mortality of insects in any stage of the development. Discussion: Non-occurrence of deaths in the larval stage in this test can be explained by the fact that the larvae have the habit to dig galleries on the ground and they usually remain there to maintain a more propitious temperature to their development, preventing contact with the suspension. It was not assessed a longer time of incubation, because seven days are considered to be the average that approximates the most close to the period of time used in the system "All in All out" in the Brazilian poultry farming, period which would be used to apply the fungal solution in poultry sheds. In this experiment, the temperature did not exceed 34ºC, and even so this factor may have affected the growth of fungus in the containers. Another possibility would be a lower virulence of isolated 986 front A. diaperinus, since this isolated was obtained from ticks. In this experiment, the Beauveria bassiana isolated 986 was not effective for biological control of Alphitobius diaperinus in simulated ambient of poultry bed. So, factors as soil, wood shavings, high temperature and incubation time would interfere in the effectiveness.

Evaluation of Beauveria bassiana (986) as a biological control of Alphitobius diaperinus in poultry bed of wood shavings / Evaluation of Beauveria bassiana (986) as a biological control of Alphitobius diaperinus in poultry bed of wood shavings

Background: Alphitobius diaperinus, lesser mealworm, represents one of the most important pests in the poultry farming industry worldwide. This insect serves as a mechanical host of pathogenic micro-organisms to birds and causes injuries in their digestive tract affecting the feed conversion. Both larvae and adult insects grow in the avian bed, over the soil of sheds and especially near the feeders, where there is a greater availability of food and water. Alphitobius diaperinus control, around the world and especially in Brazil, is based exclusively on chemical agents which generates resistant populations. The biological control by entomopathogenic fungi has been shown to be feasible and satisfactory when tested in vitro testing in the recent years. However it still lacks tests to evaluate these agents in environments that simulate field conditions. So, the aim of this experiment was to evaluate a Beauveria bassiana (986) as a way of biological control of A. diaperinus in poultry bed of wood shavings.Material, Methods & Results: Alphitobius diaperinus were collected from a poultry shed located in Garibaldi in Rio Grande do Sul and sent to the Laboratório Central de Diagnósticos em Patologias Aviárias (LCDPA), Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM). Then they were cultivated in plastic boxes on the poultry bed and fed as the recommended protocol. The Beauveria bassiana (

Background: Alphitobius diaperinus, lesser mealworm, represents one of the most important pests in the poultry farming industry worldwide. This insect serves as a mechanical host of pathogenic micro-organisms to birds and causes injuries in their digestive tract affecting the feed conversion. Both larvae and adult insects grow in the avian bed, over the soil of sheds and especially near the feeders, where there is a greater availability of food and water. Alphitobius diaperinus control, around the world and especially in Brazil, is based exclusively on chemical agents which generates resistant populations. The biological control by entomopathogenic fungi has been shown to be feasible and satisfactory when tested in vitro testing in the recent years. However it still lacks tests to evaluate these agents in environments that simulate field conditions. So, the aim of this experiment was to evaluate a Beauveria bassiana (986) as a way of biological control of A. diaperinus in poultry bed of wood shavings.Material, Methods & Results: Alphitobius diaperinus were collected from a poultry shed located in Garibaldi in Rio Grande do Sul and sent to the Laboratório Central de Diagnósticos em Patologias Aviárias (LCDPA), Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM). Then they were cultivated in plastic boxes on the poultry bed and fed as the recommended protocol. The Beauveria bassiana (

Anaplastic Ventricular Adenocarcinoma in a Blue and Gold Macaw (Ara ararauna)

A case of anaplastic ventricular adenocarcinoma in an adult, female captive blue and gold macaw (Ara ararauna) is reported. The bird died suddenly and was submitted to necropsy. The carcass was in poor body condition. A pale, firm neoplastic mass was observed infiltrating the wall of the proventricular-ventricular junction. Histologically, the neoplasm consisted of a poorly demarcated and highly invasive proliferation of cuboidal to columnar neoplastic epithelial cells arranged into small groups and admixed with a dense desmoplastic reaction. Numerous neoplastic cells showed a finely fibrillar, Alcian blue-positive cytoplasmic material. Neoplastic cells were strongly positive for pancytokeratin and negative for vimentin. The diagnosis of anaplastic ventricular adenocarcinoma was based on histological, histochemical, and immunohistochemical findings. These neoplasms are uncommon in psittacine birds and to the best of our knowledge have not been reported in this species.(AU)

Comportamento de células do sistema imune frente ao desafio com Salmonella Enteritidis em aves tratadas e não tratadas com ácidos orgânicos / Behavior of cells of immune system to the challenge with Salmonella Enteritidis in birds treated and untreated with organic acids

A Salmonelose é uma importante zoonose, considerada a principal causa de infecções bacterianas, sendo associada ao consumo de produtos avícolas. Como alternativa de controle, ácidos orgânicos têm sido amplamente usados. No entanto, pouco se conhece sobre o estado imunológico de aves de produção, e uma avaliação deste status é necessária para proteger frente a enfermidades e para garantir à aplicação segura de agentes terapêuticos ou imunização profilática. Este trabalho teve como objetivo verificar o comportamento do sistema imunológico das aves previamente infectadas com Salmonella Enteritidis (SE) tratadas com um composto de ácidos orgânicos em diferentes concentrações administrado via água e ração comparando com as aves infectadas e não tratadas. Foram inoculados 120 frangos de corte com 1mL de SE, via oral, na concentração de 1,0 x 108 UFC/mL, no 1º e 2º dia de idade, divididos em seis tratamentos com duas repetições, utilizando 200, 400, 500 e 1000ppm do ácido orgânico. Aos 35 dias de vida das aves, foram coletados, de todos os grupos, alíquotas de sangue de 3mL em tubo contendo EDTA para a avaliação das células imunes através de citometria de fluxo. Foram analisadas as porcentagens circulantes de células CD4+, CD8β+, MHC I+, MHC II+, TCRVβ1+, TCRVβ2+ e CD28+. Para análise microbiológica foram coletadas tonsilas cecais destas aves. Observou-se com esse estudo que os ácidos orgânicos nas dosagens 1000ppm na água e 500ppm na ração durante, dois e sete dias respectivamente antes do abate, foram eficazes na redução da infecção por SE em frangos de corte, comprovadas pelo método microbiológico e demonstradas através do comportamento das células do sistema imune. No presente estudo as aves infectadas apresentaram uma proporção menor de células T auxiliares circulantes quando comparadas às aves infectadas, mas tratadas com o AO ou com o grupo não infectado. A mesma tendência pode ser observada para as células CD28+, TCRVβ1+ e MHC IIbright+, e, com menor resolução, para CD8β+.(AU)

Salmonellosis is an important zoonosis, considered the leading cause of bacterial infections, and is associated with the consumption of poultry products. As alternative control, organic acids have been widely used. However, little is known about the immune status of poultry production, and an evaluation of this status is necessary to protect against disease and to ensure the safe application of therapeutic agents or prophylactic vaccination. This study aimed to verify the behavior of the immune system of birds previously infected with Salmonella Enteritidis (SE) treated with a compound of organic acids in different concentrations administered via water and food, compared with the infected birds and untreated. One hundred and twenty broilers were orally inoculated with 1ml of SE at a concentration of 1.0x108 CFU/mL, at 1 and 2-days-old and divided into six treatments with two repetitions of 200, 400, 500 and 1000ppm organic acid. From 35-days-old birds of all groups were collected aliquots of 3mL of blood into a tube containing EDTA for the evaluation of immune cells by flow cytometry. We then analyzed the percentages of circulating CD4+, CD8β+, MHC I+ MHC II+, TCRVβ1+, CD28+ + and TCRVβ2. For microbiological analysis were collected caecal tonsils of these birds. We found that organic acids in dosages 1000ppm 500ppm in water and in feed for 2 to 7 days before slaughter, respectively, were effective in reducing SE infection in broilers, proven by microbiological method and demonstrated through the behavior of immune cells. The infected birds showed a lower proportion of circulating T helper cells compared with infected poultry, but treated with AO or with the uninfected group. The same trend can be observed for CD28+ cells, and MHC IIbright+ TCRVβ 1+, and with lower resolution, for CD8β+.(AU)

Diagnóstico macro e microscópico de Aspergilose em frangos de corte / Macroscopic and microscopic diagnosis of Aspergillosis in poultry

Background: Aspergillus fumigatus is considered the major agent of mycotic diseases in birds, affecting mainly the respiratory tract. It is a disease of economic importance in the poultry industry, however it is not a zoonotic or contagious disease. Aspergillus spp. are an environment residents. Infection usually occurs by inhalation of conidia released by molds, which come off the diet or specific ingredients, the nest and contamination of eggs during incubation. The objective of this study is to relate the macro and microscopic diagnosis of aspergillosis in poultry. Case: In an intensive farming of poultry (Gallus gallus), it was observed mortality rate exceeding 20%, hoarseness and difficulty breathing in males of approximately two weeks of age. The batch was treated with Terramycin ® (oxytetracyclinehydrochloride) in the first week and Trissulfin® (sulfamethoxazole, trimethoprim and bromhexine hydrochloride) in the second week. Birds were sent for analysis at the Laboratório Central de Diagnóstico de Patologias Aviárias (LCDPA) of the Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM). Necropsy was performed in three affected birds and pulmonary aspergillosis was suspected due to local pulmonary and disseminated injuries in the coelomic cavity, associated to the clinical signs. In birds assessed by necropsy examination, it was common the visualization of nodules in the internal cavity and lungs, caseous masses in the air sacs, little pigmentation on the feet and beaks and fragile bones. Portions of lung and granulomas were sent for isolation and identification of fungi in the Laboratório de Pesquisas Micológicas (LAPEMI)-UFSM and histopathological analysis in the Laboratório de Patologia Veterinária (LPV)-UFSM, where the standard protocols for each exam were used. The result of mycological examination showed Aspergillus fumigatus as the agent. The histopathological lesions observed in the lung were consistent with aspergillosis, characterized by multifocal granulomas associated with intra-lesional dichotomously branched fungal hyphae, morphologically compatible with Aspergillus sp. Discussion: The occurrence of aspergillosis depends on the dose of inhaled conidia of the fungus and the susceptibility of the host, which occurs in birds in the first weeks of age, making it more resistant to infection in adults. The history of signs consisting of respiratory distress associated with stressful situations or the recent lack of response to antibiotics may provide support to the clinical diagnosis of aspergillosis. The isolation and identification of the fungus comprises the best method to confirm the disease agent. Histopathology provides an important contribution to the morphological diagnosis of the lesion and the fungus. The treatment of aspergillosis in poultry production is difficult and uneconomical, so that all attention is focused on prevention and control in poultry houses and hatcheries. Eggs for incubation must be cleaned and disinfected, dirty and cracked eggs should not be incubated. Care should be strict with hygiene in the hatchery. Once detected the source, it should be eliminated, and the implementation of antifungal agents according to the location of contamination and the substrate. The major difficulty for the prevention and control of aspergillosis is because these fungi can be present at all stages of poultry production.

Macroscopic and microscopic diagnosis of Aspergillosis in poultry / Diagnóstico macro e microscópico de Aspergilose em frangos de corte

Background: Aspergillus fumigatus is considered the major agent of mycotic diseases in birds, affecting mainly the respiratory tract. It is a disease of economic importance in the poultry industry, however it is not a zoonotic or contagious disease. Aspergillus spp. are an environment residents. Infection usually occurs by inhalation of conidia released by molds, which come off the diet or specifi c ingredients, the nest and contamination of eggs during incubation. The objective of this study is to relate the macro and microscopic diagnosis of aspergillosis in poultry.Discussion: The occurrence of aspergillosis depends on the dose of inhaled conidia of the fungus and the susceptibility of the host, which occurs in birds in the fi rst weeks of age, making it more resistant to infection in adults. The history of signs consisting of respiratory distress associated with stressful situations or the recent lack of response to antibiotics may provide support to the clinical diagnosis of aspergillosis. The isolation and identifi cation of the fungus comprises the best method to confi rm the disease agent. Histopathology provides an important contribution to the morphological diagnosis of the lesion and the fungus. The treatment of aspergillosis in poultry production is diffi cult and uneconomical, so that all attention is focused on prevention and control in poultry houses and hatcheri

Background: Aspergillus fumigatus is considered the major agent of mycotic diseases in birds, affecting mainly the respiratory tract. It is a disease of economic importance in the poultry industry, however it is not a zoonotic or contagious disease. Aspergillus spp. are an environment residents. Infection usually occurs by inhalation of conidia released by molds, which come off the diet or specifi c ingredients, the nest and contamination of eggs during incubation. The objective of this study is to relate the macro and microscopic diagnosis of aspergillosis in poultry.Case: In an intensive farming of poultry (Gallus gallus), it was observed mortality rate exceeding 20%, hoarseness and diffi culty breathing in males of approximately two weeks of age. The batch was treated with Terramycin ® (oxytetracyclinehydrochloride) in the fi rst week and Trissulfi n® (sulfamethoxazole, trimethoprim and bromhexine hydrochloride) in the second week. Birds were sent for analysis at the Laboratório Central de Diagnóstico de Patologias Aviárias (LCDPA) of the Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM). Necropsy was performed in three affected birds and pulmonary aspergillosis was suspected due to local pulmonary and disseminated injuries in the coelomic cavity, associated to the clinical signs. In birds assessed by necropsy examination, it was common the visualization of nodules in the internal

Efficacy of Phosphine Gas Against the Darkling Beetle (Alphitobius diaperinus)

Background: The darkling beetle, Alphitobius diaperinus is the most commonly beetle found in poultry sheds and causes economic and sanitary impact in the poultry industry. The life cycle of the mealworm can vary from one to three months depending on environmental conditions, and adults can survive for up to one year. The insect lives in the poultry litter where it eats feed and organic waste. The temperature in the poultry house and the accumulation of feed and organic matter promote ideal conditions for beetle infestation. The consumption of beetles affects feed conversion in poultry, especially in the first days of life and it is often cited as a vector of viral, bacterial and parasitic pathogens. The control of its populations is generally achieved by insecticide application on the walls and floor, but resistant populations of beetles are often reported. Phosphine gas is used as a fumigant to control insects in stored grain. In this study the efficacy of phosphine gas against this beetle was evaluated. Materials, Methods & Results: Two experiments were conducted: one in vitro trial, and a trial simulating field conditions. The in vitro trial aimed to evaluate the exposure time required (ETR) to obtain 100% insect mortality, in the presence and absence of wood shavings. Adults and larvae were tested separately. In treatment T1, 100 adult beetles were placed in a petri dish without poultry litter; treatment T2, had 100 adult beetles per plate and filled with sterilized poultry litter. Treatments T3 andT4 had 100 A. diaperinus larvae per plate, in absence and presence of poultry litter, respectively. Three repetitions were performed for each treatment. Insect mortality in plates was monitored at 5 min intervals. The absence of beetle movements after shaking the plate was considered an indicator of insect mortality. The field evaluation was carried out in a poultry house with litter infested with A. diaperinus. [...]

Efficacy of Phosphine Gas Against the Darkling Beetle (Alphitobius diaperinus)

Background: The darkling beetle, Alphitobius diaperinus is the most commonly beetle found in poultry sheds and causes economic and sanitary impact in the poultry industry. The life cycle of the mealworm can vary from one to three months depending on environmental conditions, and adults can survive for up to one year. The insect lives in the poultry litter where it eats feed and organic waste. The temperature in the poultry house and the accumulation of feed and organic matter promote ideal conditions for beetle infestation. The consumption of beetles affects feed conversion in poultry, especially in the first days of life and it is often cited as a vector of viral, bacterial and parasitic pathogens. The control of its populations is generally achieved by insecticide application on the walls and floor, but resistant populations of beetles are often reported. Phosphine gas is used as a fumigant to control insects in stored grain. In this study the efficacy of phosphine gas against this beetle was evaluated. Materials, Methods & Results: Two experiments were conducted: one in vitro trial, and a trial simulating field conditions. The in vitro trial aimed to evaluate the exposure time required (ETR) to obtain 100% insect mortality, in the presence and absence of wood shavings. Adults and larvae were tested separately. In treatment T1, 100 adult beetles were placed in a petri dish without poultry litter; treatment T2, had 100 adult beetles per plate and filled with sterilized poultry litter. Treatments T3 andT4 had 100 A. diaperinus larvae per plate, in absence and presence of poultry litter, respectively. Three repetitions were performed for each treatment. Insect mortality in plates was monitored at 5 min intervals. The absence of beetle movements after shaking the plate was considered an indicator of insect mortality. The field evaluation was carried out in a poultry house with litter infested with A. diaperinus. [...](AU)

Pesquisa de Salmonella em carcaças de frango resfriadas em abatedouro no oeste de Santa Catarina após implementação do Programa de Redução de Patógenos / Salmonella in chicken carcasses cooled in slaughterhouse in western Santa Catarina after implementation of the Pathogen Reduction Program

o objetivo desse trabalho foi pesquisar Salmonella spp em carcaças de frango de um frigorífico do oeste de Santa Catarina, nos primeiros anos de implantação do Programa de Redução de Patógenos do MAPA. Devido à importância das aves como fonte protéica para a alimentação humana e em função dos problemas de contaminação causada por Salmonella spp em produtos avícolas. Foram analisadas 274 carcaças de frango após a saída do chiller (tanque com água gelada utilizado para resfriamento das carcaças); para as análises utilizaram-se a metodologia recomendada pela legislação brasi- I leira. A Salmonella spp. foi isolada em 2,19% das amostras analisadas. Pelos resultados obtidos pode-se concluir que no frigorífico estudado não houve um percentual elevado de presença de Salmonella spp, demonstrando importância da implementação do Programa de Redução de Patógenos. (AU)

The aim of this study was to investigate Salmonella spp. in chicken carcasses from a refrigerator in western Santa Catarina in the first years of implementation of the Pathogen Reduction Program of the MAP. Because of the importance of birds as a protein source for human consumption and to reduce problems caused by contamination of Salmonella spp in poultry products. We analyzed 274 chicken carcasses after leaving the chiller (tank with cold water used for cooling carcass) for analysis using the methodology recommended by the Brazilian legislation. The Salmonella spp. was isolated in 2.19% of the samples analyzed. From the results it can be concluded that the refrigerator was not studied a high percentage of Salmonella spp. presence of demonstrating the importance of implementing Pathogen Reduction Program. (AU)