Sheep naturally infected with Anaplasma ovis - evaluation of cardiac and inflammatory biomarkers

Background: Anaplasmosis, also called gall sickness or tropical bovine ehrlichiosis, is an infectious disease caused by species belonging to the genus Anaplasma in domestic and wild animals in tropical and subtropical regions. Anaplasma ovis and A. phagocytophilum are important pathogens of sheep. A. ovis is considered the most common species affecting sheep. The infection is usually subclinical and progresses with high fever, anaemia, icterus, weight loss and abortions. This study aimed to investigate changes in cardiac damage markers, oxidative stress and antioxidant status, cytokines, and acute phase proteins in sheep naturally infected with A. ovis. Materials, Methods & Results: For this purpose, a total of 40 animals, including 20 healthy sheep and 20 sheep infected with anaplasmosis, were used. A. ovis was diagnosed based on clinical findings and peripheral blood smear. Blood smears were prepared from the ear vein. The smears were stained with Giemsa and examined for the presence of Anaplasma spp. Infection was also confirmed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis. The genomic DNA was isolated from blood, and the MSP-4 gene region was amplified as A. ovis specific target gene. Twenty clinically healthy sheep of the same age group, reared under the same conditions and testing negative in the molecular assessment were used as controls. Blood samples were collected from the cephalic vein and and centrifuged to obtain serum. The serum stored at -20°C until the analysis stage. Serum samples were used for the analysis of cardiac damage markers [troponin I (cTnI), creatine kinase MB (CK-MB), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and aspartate transaminase (AST)], oxidative stress parameters [malondialdehyde (MDA), total antioxidant status (TAS), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx)], cytokines [interleukins IL-6, IL-1ß and IL-10, tumour necrosis factor α (TNF-α), and interferon-γ (IFN-γ)] and acute phase proteins [C-reactive protein (CRP), serum amyloid A (SAA) and haptoglobin (Hp)]. cTnI and CK-MB levels were measured using a chemiluminescent immunoassay. MDA, TAS, SOD, CAT, GPx, TNF-α, IL-1ß, IL-6, IL-10, IFN-γ, SAA and Hp levels were measured by an ELISA reader. LDH, AST and CRP levels were measured in an autoanalyzer. cTnI and LDH levels were significantly increased in the infected animals compared to the healthy ones (P < 0.05). The concentration of AST was decreased in infected animals. MDA, TAS, SOD, CAT and GPx levels were significantly increased in the infected animals compared to the healthy ones (P < 0.05). The levels of the inflammatory parameters such as TNF-α, IL-1ß, IL-10 and IFN-γ were significantly increased in the infected animals compared to the healthy ones (P < 0.05). Hp level were significantly increased in the infected group compared with the control group (P < 0.05). However, there was no significant change in CK-MB, SAA and CRP concentrations in the infected animals (P > 0.05). Discussion: Ovine anaplasmosis is an obligate intracellular arthropod disease that causes widespread changes in haematobiochemical, immune response and oxidative stress parameters. Cardiac damage is often overlooked in field conditions due to the lack of adequate knowledge about the pathophysiology of the disease. Our results showed that A. ovis infection leads to significant changes in cardiac biomarkers and that the parasite can cause cardiac dysfunction. This is the first report on cardiac damage markers in Anaplasma-infected sheep. Additionally, the levels of proinflammatory and oxidative stress markers that may cause functional disorders were also found to be increased. Thus, measuring markers of cardiac function, oxidative stress and inflammation can be a useful tool in the early diagnosis of ovine anaplasmosis.

Early maturation of corpus luteum in rabbits - effect of sildenafil citrate on luteolytic capacity in the early luteal period

Background: Prostaglandin F2 alpha (PGF2 α) binds to the specific receptor (PTGFR) on the corpus luteum (CL) in mammals, inducing regression of the CL structure (luteolysis) and initiating a new cycle. While PGF2 α is effective only on mature CL, the immature CL structure (early luteal phase) resists PGF2 α. In this study, sildenafil citrate, which is used to increase blood flow in the genital organs for treating specific pregnancy issues in women, was administered during the early luteal phase in a rabbit model to test the hypothesis of enhancing blood flow to the CL, thereby promoting earlier maturation and enabling a response to PGF2 α. Materials, Methods & Results: The study was conducted in 2 sub-studies: clinical and molecular. A large number of rabbits were initially included in the sub-studies to ensure a sufficient number of pseudo-pregnant rabbits. Ovulation in rabbits was induced with buserelin acetate and was considered as day 0 of the study. The sub-studies were continued with rabbits whose pseudo-pregnancies were confirmed according to progesterone (P4 ) results. As a result, the studies were continued with a total of 41 pseudo-pregnant New Zealand female rabbits, 21 of which were included in the clinical sub-study and 20 in the molecular sub-study. In both sub-studies, on day 3 of the luteal period, rabbits in the treatment group received 5 mg/kg sildenafil citrate and all rabbits received a single dose of exogenous PGF2 α on day 4 to induce luteolysis. In the clinical sub-study, echotexture and intraovarian blood flow changes in the ovaries were determined by ultrasonography (USG) examination. In the molecular sub-study, the expression changes of Hypoxia Inducible Factor 1 Alpha (HIF1A) and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) related to angiogenesis, Steroidogenic Acute Regulatory Protein (StAR) related to P4 metabolism, Prostaglandin-Endoperoxide Synthase 2 (PTGS2) related to prostaglandin (PG) mechanism and 15-Hydroxyprostaglandin Dehydrogenase (HPGD) genes at mRNA level were determined using Real Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) in CL tissues obtained with ovariohysterectomy (OVH) at 1 and 12 h after PGF2 α injection. In addition, blood samples were collected for determine P4 levels from all rabbits. In the clinical sub-study; there was no difference between the groups in mean gray values (MGV), whereas there was a significant decrease in both pulsatile index (PI) and resistance index (RI) values at 40 min after PGF2 α injection (P < 0.05). In the molecular sub-study, it was determined that sildenafil citrate had no significant effect (P > 0.05) on the expression levels 1 and 12 h after PGF2 α injection. According to the results of the molecular sub-study, no significant effect of sildenafil citrate on the mRNA expression levels in the investigated genes was detected (P > 0.05). However, within each group, differences were found according to OVH time after PGF2 α injection. It was observed that PTGS2 and HPGD mRNA expressions decreased at the 12th h compared to the 1st h, while HIF1A expression increased (P < 0.05). Discussion: According to the results obtained from clinical and molecular sub-studies, it was determined that a single dose of sildenafil citrate (5 mg/kg) applied on the 3rd day of the luteal period did not contribute to the maturation process of the CL, did not increase blood flow, and was insufficient to break the resistance of the CL against PGF2 α applied on the 4th day of the luteal period. However, a significant decrease in the PI value at the 40th min after PGF2 α injection suggests that sildenafil citrate has a supportive effect, and that this decrease is also seen in the RI value, suggesting that its effect is insufficient against the vasoconstrictive effect of PGF2 α.

Sarcocystis spp. detection in cattle using different diagnostic methods / Detecção de Sarcocystis spp. em bovinos usando diferentes métodos de diagnóstico

Cattle are considered intermediate hosts of Sarcocystis, which can cause clinical signs and lower performance in the acute phase of infection. Sarcocystis spp. are usually not visible to the naked eye during the post mortem inspection. Moreover, fresh microscopic examination and transmission electron microscopy techniques are difficult to apply to large samples. Therefore, extensive studies on Sarcocystis infection in cattle using molecular and serological methods are required. Here, we investigated Sarcocystis spp. infection in cattle using fresh microscopic examination and polymerase chain reaction of myocardium samples and compared the results with the presence of antibodies against Sarcocystis spp. in corresponding serum samples detected using indirect fluorescent antibody test. Microscopic Sarcocystis were observed in 100% of the myocardial samples, and Sarcocystis DNA was present in 86% (43/50) of these samples. Antibodies against Sarcocystis spp. were detected in 96% (48/50) and 80% (40/50) of the serum samples at 1:25 and 1:200 dilutions, respectively. The three associated methods (fresh microscopic examination, PCR and serology) showed good sensitivity and detection for Sarcocystis spp. compared with fresh microscopic examination (only), and they may facilitate diagnosis in live animals on a large scale as well as monitoring of the herd status.

Os bovinos são considerados hospedeiros intermediários de Sarcocystis, podendo causar sinais clínicos e menor desempenho na fase aguda da infecção. Sarcocystis spp. geralmente não são visíveis a olho nu durante a inspeção post mortem. Além disso, o exame microscópico a fresco e as técnicas de microscopia eletrônica de transmissão são difíceis de aplicar a uma amostras de grande tamanho. Portanto, são necessários extensos estudos sobre a infecção por Sarcocystis em bovinos usando métodos moleculares e sorológicos. Aqui, investigamos a infecção de Sarcocystis spp. em bovinos por meio de exame microscópico a fresco e reação em cadeia da polimerase de amostras de miocárdio e comparado os resultados com a presença de anticorpos contra Sarcocystis spp. em amostras de soro correspondentes detectadas usando o teste de anticorpos fluorescentes indiretos. Sarcocistos microscópicos foram observados em 100% das amostras de miocárdio, e o DNA de Sarcocystis estava presente em 86% (43/50) dessas amostras. Anticorpos contra Sarcocystis spp. foram detectados em 96% (48/50) e 80% (40/50) das amostras de soro nas diluições 1:25 e 1:200, respectivamente. Os três métodos associados (exame microscópico a fresco, PCR e sorologia) mostraram boa sensibilidade e detecção para Sarcocystis spp. em comparação com o exame microscópico fresco (apenas) e podem facilitar o diagnóstico em animais vivos em larga escala, bem como o monitoramento do status do rebanho.

Acute phase protein and vitamin D concentration in dogs with multicentric lymphoma / Concentração de proteínas de fase aguda e vitamina D em cães com linfoma multicêntrico

This study aimed to evaluate the serum concentration of vitamin D (25-Hydroxyvitamin D) and acute phase proteins (APPs; alpha-1 acid glycoprotein, haptoglobin, transferrin, ceruloplasmin, albumin, IgA, IgG and alpha-1 - antitrypsin) as potential biomarkers for prognostic and therapy response in dogs with multicentric lymphoma submitted to the CHOP (Cyclophosphamide, Doxorubicin, Vincristine and Prednisone) chemotherapy protocol. Thirteen dogs with multicentric lymphoma classified as high grade by cytology were included in the treatment group (GL), while ten healthy dogs were included in the control group (GC). Serum was collected in the weeks T0, T5 and T10 of CHOP chemotherapy protocol, for the GL group, and in a single collection, for the GC group. All the collected samples were evaluated for the APPs and vitamin D concentrations through electrophoresis and chemiluminescence methods, respectively. Diagnostic and staging tests were performed for all the dogs in the GL group, and included cytopathology, histopathology and immunohistochemistry of the affected lymph node. Of these dogs, 9 achieved a complete response and 4 a partial response to the treatment. Data analysis was performed with the R software. The results demonstrated that serum concentrations of IgA, haptoglobin and α1-acid glycoprotein were significantly different between the groups and also between the different chemotherapy times analyzed (p<0.05), indicating that these proteins can be considered as sensitive biomarkers for lymphoma in dogs. Furthermore, the α1-acid glycoprotein showed prognostic value for the disease, with 63% specificity. However, vitamin D concentration was not correlated with prognosis of the dogs with lymphoma.

Objetivou-se caracterizar a concentração sérica da vitamina D e das PFAs (Proteínas de Fase Aguda) (alfa-1 glicoproteína ácida, haptoglobina, transferrina, ceruloplasmina, albumina, IgA, IgG e alfa-1 ­ antitripsina) em cães com linfoma multicêntrico, submetidos ao tratamento quimioterápico com protocolo CHOP (Ciclofosfamida, Doxorrubicina, Vincristina e Prednisona), determinando o valor prognóstico desses marcadores para a doença. Foram avaliadas as concentrações séricas das PFAs, através do método da eletroforese e as concentrações da vitamina D, através da quimioluminescência em dois grupos experimentais, um grupo de 13 cães com linfoma multicêntrico classificados como alto grau pela citologia (GL) durante as semanas T0, T5 e T10 do tratamento com protocolo quimioterápico antineoplásico e em um grupo de 10 animais saudáveis para compor o grupo controle (GC), em coleta única. Para isso, foi realizado o diagnóstico, estadiamento e avaliação de resposta terapêutica dos 13 pacientes com linfoma multicêntrico através de técnicas de citopatologia, histopatologia, imuno-histoquímica do linfonodo periférico acometido. Foi observado que 9 pacientes tiveram resposta completa e 4 pacientes tiveram resposta parcial ao tratamento. Os dados foram analisados através do software R. Os resultados indicam que as diferenças entre as variáveis IgA, haptoglobina e α1-glicoproteína ácida foram significativas entre os grupos, e entre os diferentes momentos da quimioterapia (p< 0,05), indicando que podem ser marcadores sensíveis ao linfoma em cães. A α1-glicoproteína ácida apresentou valor prognóstico para o linfoma, com 63% de especificidade. Porém a vitamina D não apresentou valor prognóstico para o linfoma multicêntrico em cães.

Effects of 48-hour feed deprivation on acute-phase response in horses / Efeitos da privação alimentar de 48 horas na resposta de fase aguda em cavalos

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of feed restriction on acute-phase response in horses. Twenty horses were deprived of food for 48 h and others 12 animals (control) had free access to water and hay. They were closely monitored and examined, and blood samples were taken at the beginning (0) of the study and 6, 12, 18, 24, 30, 36, 42 and 48 hours afterward. Data were submitted to two-way analysis of variance with repeated measures and statistical significance was P ≤ 0.05. The horses tolerated feed restriction without serious clinical complications. Feed restriction induced an increase in the acute-phase response by elevating serum concentrations of α2-macroglobulin (24-38 h), ceruloplasmin (36-48 h), α1-antitrypsin (30-48 h), α1-acid glycoprotein (42-48 h) and haptoglobin (42-48 h). Nutrient deprivation raised the levels of circulating cortisol, which acts on the innate immune system, which then induces the acute-phase response. In conclusion, food restriction is a physical stressor for horses, capable of inducing an acute-phase protein reaction, characterized by increased production of α2-macroglobulin, ceruloplasmin, α1- antitrypsin, α1-acid glycoprotein and haptoglobin.

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o efeito da restrição alimentar na resposta de fase aguda em equinos. Vinte cavalos foram submetidos à restrição alimentar por 48 h enquanto outros 12 animais (controle) tiveram livre acesso à água e alimento. Os animais foram monitorados, examinados e amostras de sangue foram coletadas no início (0) do estudo e com 6, 12, 18, 24, 30, 36, 42 e 48 horas de restrição alimentar. Os dados foram submetidos à análise de variância bidirecional com medidas repetidas e a significância estatística foi P ≤ 0,05. Os cavalos toleraram a restrição alimentar sem complicações clínicas relevantes. A restrição alimentar induziu uma resposta de fase aguda caracterizada pela elevação das concentrações séricas de α2-macroglobulina (24-38 h), ceruloplasmina (36-48 h), α1-antitripsina (30-48 h), α1-glicoproteína ácida (42-48 h) e haptoglobina (42-48 h). A privação de nutrientes eleva os níveis de cortisol circulante, que atua no sistema imunológico inato o qual, então induz a resposta de fase aguda. Em conclusão, a restrição alimentar é um fator estressor físico para equinos, capaz de induzir uma reação proteica de fase aguda, caracterizada pelo aumento na produção de α2-macroglobulina, ceruloplasmina, α1-antitripsina, α1-glicoproteína ácida e haptoglobina.

Can intramammary infections change immunoglobulins and acute phase proteins of colostrum and transition milk in dairy goats? / A infecção intramamária pode alterar imunoglobulinas e proteínas de fase aguda do colostro e do leite de transição de cabras leiteiras?

Proteiongram analysis is useful for the early diagnosis of intramammary infections during the period of colostrogenesis. This study aimed to evaluate the profile of total proteins, immunoglobulins, lactoferrin, and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) in the colostrum of dairy goats with intramammary infections. Animals were divided in groups: GI (n=12) of goats without mammary gland infections, and GII (n=8) of goats with mammary gland infections. Intramammary infections were diagnosed using microbiological isolations and somatic cell counts Cs). Total protein was evaluated in the samples using SDS-PAGE shortly after parturition, and 24 and 48 hours after that event. Non-aureus Staphylococcus (NAS) were detected all isolates. At 48 h, GII had high IgG levels and a SCC of 1660.25 x 103/mL. Levels of total protein were high in this group at 24 and 48 h. Albumin levels were high in goats with mastitis at 24 h. Overall, the IgG, lactoferrin, and albumin levels differed between animals with and without intramammary infections at M0. GGT activity was not influenced by the intramammary infection. The results of this study reinforce the importance of the proteinogram as an auxiliary tool in the diagnosis of mastitis in dairy goats.

O proteinograma do colostro/leite pode ser útil para diagnóstico precoce de infecções intramamárias, assim como para a avaliação da intensidade da resposta inflamatória. Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar o perfil de proteínas, imunoglobulinas, lactoferrina e gamaglutamiltransferase no colostro de cabras leiteiras portadoras s de infecções intramamárias. Os animais foram distribuídos em dois grupos, GI (n 12), composto por cabras sem isolamento microbiológico das glândulas mamárias, e GII (n 8), composto por cabras com resultados positivos na cultura do leite de pelo menos uma das glândulas mamárias. O diagnóstico de infecção intramamária foi realizado logo após o parto, por meio de isolamento microbiológico e de contagem de células somáticas (CCS). Os níveis de proteína total, imunoglobulina A (IgA), imunoglobulina (G) (IgG), lactoferrina, albumina e atividade da gamaglutamiltransferase (GGT) foram avaliados em amostras de colostro/leite de transição, usando-se SDS-PAGE logo após o parto bem como às 24 e às 48 horas após esse evento. Staphylococcus não aureus (NAS) foram encontrados em todos os isolamentos. A concentração de IgG de 186 foi superior no GII apenas às 48h, ao mesmo tempo em que o CCS foi de 1660,25 x 10/mL. No entanto, a proteína total foi maior neste grupo às 24 e às 48h. A albumina foi maior nas cabras com mastite às 24h, e a lactoferrina no momento 0h (M0) e às 48h. Em geral, os valores de IgG, lactoferrina e albumina diferiram entre os animais com e sem infecções intramamárias no M0. A atividade da gamaglutamiltransferase não foi influenciada pela infecção intramamária. Os resultados deste estudo reforçam a importância do proteinograma como uma ferramenta auxiliar no diagnóstico da mastite em cabras leiteiras.

Acute and chronic immunomodulatory response mechanisms against Toxocara canis larvae infection in mice / Mecanismos da resposta imunomoduladora aguda e crônica contra a infecção por larvas de Toxocara canis em camundongos

The objective of this work was to evaluate the early and late immunological modulation of an experimental infection of T. canis larvae in mice. Mice were infected with 100 infective larvae and euthanized at different period: 24, 48 hours post infection (HPI), 15- and 30 days post infection (DPI). The humoral response was evaluated by indirect ELISA. Quantitative RT-PCR (qPCR) was used to quantify the mRNA transcription of cytokines IL4, IL10, IL12 and Ym1 in the early and late infection periods. Infection with T. canis was able to generate specific total IgG at 15- and 30- DPI. Analyzing the IgG isotype revealed a significant differentiation for IgG1 compared with IgG2a, IgG2b and IgG3, characterizing a Th-2 response. Evaluating the gene transcription at the early phase of infection, higher transcription levels of IL10, IL4 and Ym1 and a downregulation of IL12 were observed. By the late phase, increased transcription levels of IL4, Ym1 and IL12 were observed, and downregulation of IL-10 transcription was observed. The data obtained suggest that during experimental infection with T. canis, the participation of the IL4, IL10, IL12 cytokines and Ym1 can play an important role in T. canis immunomodulation.(AU)

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a modulação imunológica precoce e tardia da infecção experimental de larvas de T. canis em camundongos. Estes foram infectados com 100 larvas infectantes e eutanasiados em diferentes períodos: 24 e 48 horas pós infecção (HPI), 15 e 30 dias após a infecção (DPI). A resposta humoral foi avaliada por ELISA indireto. RT-PCR quantitativo (qPCR) foi usado para quantificar a transcrição de mRNA das citocinas IL4, IL10, IL12 e Ym1 nos períodos de infecção precoce e tardia. A infecção por T. canis foi capaz de gerar IgG total específico aos 15 e 30 DPI. A análise do isótipo IgG revelou uma diferenciação significativa para IgG1 em comparação com IgG2a, IgG2b e IgG3, caracterizando uma resposta Th-2. Avaliando-se a transcrição gênica na fase inicial da infecção, foram observados níveis mais elevados de transcrição de IL10, IL4 e Ym1 e a regulação negativa de IL12. Na fase tardia, foram observados níveis aumentados de transcrição de IL4, Ym1 e IL12, e foi observada regulação negativa da transcrição de IL-10. Os dados obtidos sugerem, que durante a infecção experimental com T. canis, a participação das citocinas IL4, IL10, IL12 e Ym1 podem desempenhar um papel importante na imunomodulação de T. canis.(AU)

Late peripheral facial paralysis after COVID-19: a rapid systematic review and two case reports

Peripheral facial paralysis (PFP) has been shown to be a neurological manifestation of COVID-19. The current study presents two cases of PFP after COVID-19, along with a rapid review of known cases in the literature. Both case reports were conducted following CARE guidelines. We also performed a systematic review of PFP cases temporally related to COVID-19 using PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases on August 30, 2021, using a rapid review methodology. The two patients experienced PFP 102 and 110 days after COVID-19 symptom onset. SARS-CoV-2 RNA was detected in nasal samples through reverse-transcription real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) testing. Anosmia was the only other neurological manifestation. PFP was treated with steroids in both cases, with complete subsequent recovery. In the rapid review, we identified 764 articles and included 43 studies. From those, 128 patients with PFP were analyzed, of whom 42.1% (54/128) were male, 39.06% (50/128) female, and in 23 cases the gender was not reported. The age range was 18 to 59 (54.68%). The median time between COVID-19 and PFP was three days (ranging from the first symptom of COVID-19 to 40 days after the acute phase of infection). Late PFP associated with COVID-19 presents mild symptoms and improves with time, with no identified predictors. Late PFP should be added to the spectrum of neurological manifestations associated with the long-term effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection as a post COVID-19 condition.

Clinical and pathological aspects of an outbreak of Streptococcus suis serotype 9 infection in pigs / Aspectos clínicos e patológicos de um surto de infecção por Streptococcus suis sorotipo 9 em suínos

Streptococcus suis is a Gram-positive pathogen that inhabits the upper respiratory tract and can cause severe systemic inflammatory disease in pigs, mainly during the nursery phase. Streptococcus suis is a reemergent pathogen, and outbreaks of its inducing disease represent significant economic losses for the pig industry worldwide. In this study, we described the clinical, pathological, and molecular aspects of an outbreak of S. suis infection with atypically high mortality. The outbreak occurred in nursery farms integrated into a cooperative in the state of Paraná, Brazil. Of the 30 nurseries, 10 were severely affected by the pathogen and had high economic losses. Clinical signs usually started approximately 10 days after weaning and were mainly characterized by acute nervous and locomotor disorders. The mortality of the affected batches usually ranged between 8% and 10%, but in some cases, it reached 18%. Nine piglets were submitted to post mortem examination. Macroscopically, the synovial joints were enlarged and contained fibrinous exudates. In the central nervous system, there was hyperemia of the leptomeningeal vessels associated with deposition of fibrin and purulent exudate in the leptomeninges. In three piglets, there was thickening of the choroid plexus associated with dilation of the lateral ventricles. Microscopic lesions were characterized mainly by fibrinosuppurative inflammation, which involved the synovial membranes, leptomeninges of the brain, and spinal cord. Furthermore, it also affects the choroid plexus, ependyma, nerve roots, and central canal of the spinal cord. S. suis was isolated from the cerebrospinal fluid, meningeal swabs, and/or synovial fluid of 8/9 piglets, and typified as serotype 9 by multiplex PCR.

Streptococcus suis é um patógeno Gram positivo que habita o trato respiratório superior e pode causar doença inflamatória sistêmica grave em suínos, principalmente durante a fase de creche. Streptococcus suis é um patógeno reemergente e surtos representam perdas econômicas significativas a suinocultura mundial. Neste estudo descrevemos os aspectos clínicos, patológicos e moleculares de um surto de infecção por S. suis com mortalidade atipicamente alta. O surto ocorreu em creches integradas a uma cooperativa do estado do Paraná, Brasil. Das 30 creches, 10 foram severamente afetadas pelo patógeno e apresentavam elevadas perdas econômicas. Os sinais clínicos iniciavam em torno de 10 dias após o desmame e eram caracterizados principalmente por sinais clínicos nervosos e locomotores agudos. A mortalidade dos lotes afetados variava entre 8% e 10%, mas em alguns casos ultrapassava 18%. Nove leitões foram submetidos ao exame post mortem. Macroscopicamente, as articulações sinoviais estavam aumentadas e continham exsudato fibrinoso. No sistema nervoso central havia hiperemia dos vasos leptomeníngeos associada a deposição de fibrina e exsudato purulento nas leptomeninges. Em três leitões havia espessamento do plexo coroide associado a dilatação dos ventrículos laterais. As lesões microscópicas eram caracterizadas principalmente por inflamação fibrinossupurativa que envolvia as membranas sinoviais, as leptomeninges do cérebro e medula espinhal. Além disso, também afetava o plexo coroide, epêndima, raízes nervosas e canal central da medula espinhal. S. suis foi isolado do líquido cefalorraquidiano, suabe de meninge e/ou líquido sinovial de 8/9 leitões e tipificado como sorotipo 9 por PCR multiplex.

Enostose múltipla em equino puro sangue de corrida / Enostosis-like lesion in thoroughbred horse

Background: Enostosis like lesions are characterized by areas of intramedullary sclerosis affecting the long bones andtheir presence in any cases may be not associated with lameness. It has a migratory characteristic and, therefore there isthe occurrence of lameness at different sites from the initial lesion. Its etiology is speculative and has been attributed tointraosseous increased pressure, of Havers’ canals compression, stimulation of unmyelinated fibers and circulating plateletaggregates. Diagnosis is made through nuclear scintigraphy and associated with radiographic examination. This paperaims to report a clinical case on the use of scintigraphy for the reference diagnosis of enostosis-type injury and treatmentthrough surgical bone decompression.Case: A 2-year-old thoroughbred mare, weighing 483 kg, with a history of acute lameness of the left pelvic limb associatedwith the no previous signs of trauma and no noteworthy changes in radiographic and ultrasound images, was referred to theHorse Center Veterinary Clinic. In the examination of the locomotor system, the animal presented a 2/5 degree lamenessin a straight line, with accentuated exacerbation of the same after flexion of the left femoro-tibio-patellar joint. In addition,presented a reduction in the caudal phase of the stride and croup asymmetry associated with mild myopenia. The findingsof the scintigraphic exam characterized by intense focal area of hyperconcentration of medullary radiopharmaceutical inthe proximal third of the right third metatarsal, and multiple areas of hyperconcentration in the aspect proximal to thedistal third of the left tibia. In the radiographic images, multifocal radiopaque regions that coincided with the areas ofradiopharmaceutical hyperconcentration were observed. The initial treatment was based on rest, use of non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs and acetylsalicylic acid. In the 60 days...

Effects of flunixin meglumine, meloxicam, and firocoxib on the acute-phase proteins in horses following standing castration / Efeitos do flunixin meglumine, meloxicam e firocoxib na concentração de proteínas da fase aguda após em equinos após castração

Excessive infection and inflammation are the most common complications associated with castration. The objective of this study was to compare the efficacy of flunixin meglumine (FM), meloxicam (MX), or firocoxib (FX) for inflammation control after castration in horses using acute-phase proteins (APP) as markers of inflammation. Thirty healthy, unbroken, mixed-breed horses (body weight 358.62±45.57kg and age 4.99±2.63 years) were randomly (n=10 animals/group) allocated to receive one of three different post-castration anti-inflammatory medicines: Group 1 (FM 1.1mg/kg bwt, IV, s.i.d for 5 days); Group 2 (MX 0.6mg/kg bwt, IV, s.i.d for 5 days); and Group 3 (FX 0.1mg/kg bwt, IV, s.i.d for 5 days). All horses were castrated in standing position, using the open technique. Serum and peritoneal APP concentrations were measured by sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) and determined before castration (0), and 3, 5, 24, 48, 72, 120 and 168 hours after castration. The results were submitted to analysis of variance using the SAS statistical program, and means were compared by the Student-Newman-Keuls test (p<0.05). Three animals from the MX group developed hyperthermia (with rectal temperatures of 39.8, 39.3 and 38.9°C on day 4, 5 and 6, respectively) and showed local clinical signs of inflammation (inguinal and excessive scrotal edema) and reluctance to walk, as well as a rigid gait of the hind limbs. The same complications were observed in one FX horse. No complications were observed among the FM animals. The castration resulted in significant changes in serum and peritoneal values of total proteins, ceruloplasmin (Cp), transferrin (Tf), albumin (Alb), haptoglobin (Hp) and α1-acid glycoprotein (Gp) in animals of all experimental groups. However, the animals of the MX and FX groups presented more intense acute phase response compared to the animals of the FM group. Changes in the APP were associated with the surgical trauma of castration, but the differences between groups were associated with the ability of the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug to control the inflammation. In conclusion, and based on the findings of acute phase proteins, flunixin is more efficient to control the magnitude of inflammation following castration as compared to meloxicam and firocoxib.(AU)

Infecção e inflamação excessivas são as complicações mais comuns associadas à castração. O objetivo deste estudo foi comparar a eficácia do flunixin meglumine (FM), meloxicam (MX) ou firocoxib (FX) no controle da inflamação após a castração em cavalos usando proteínas da fase aguda (APP) como marcadores de inflamação. Trinta equinos saudáveis (358,62±45,57kg; 4,99±2,63 anos) foram em função dos anti-inflamatórios utilizados após as castrações aleatoriamente (n= 10 animais/grupo) alocados em três diferentes grupos: Grupo 1 (FM 1,1mg/kg de peso, IV, sid por 5 dias); Grupo 2 (MX 0,6mg/kg de peso, IV, s.i.d por 5 dias); e Grupo 3 (FX 0,1mg/kg de peso, IV, s.i.d por 5 dias). Todos os cavalos foram castrados em posição quadrupedal, utilizando a técnica aberta. As concentrações de APP sérica e peritoneal foram separadas por eletroforese em gel de poliacrilamida (PAGE) com dodecil-sulfato de sódio (SDS) e determinadas no momento 0 (antes da castração) e com 3, 5, 24, 48, 72, 120 e 168 horas após a castração. Os resultados foram submetidos à análise de variância pelo programa estatístico SAS e as médias foram comparadas pelo teste de Student-Newman-Keuls (p<0,05). Três animais do grupo MX desenvolveram hipertermia (com temperatura retal de 39,8, 39,3 e 38,9° C nos dias 4, 5 e 6, respectivamente) e mostraram sinais clínicos locais de inflamação (edema inguinal e escrotal excessivo) e relutância em andar, bem como marcha rígida dos membros posteriores. As mesmas complicações foram observadas em um cavalo do FX. Não foram observadas complicações entre os animais do FM. Independente do grupo, a castração resultou em alterações significativas nos valores séricos e peritoneais de proteínas totais, ceruloplasmina (Cp), transferrina (Tf), albumina (Alb), haptoglobina (Hp) e glicoproteína ácida α1 (Gp). No entanto, os animais dos grupos MX e FX apresentaram resposta de fase aguda mais intensa quando comparados aos animais do FM. Alterações na resposta de fase aguda deveram-se ao trauma cirúrgico da castração, mas as diferenças entre os grupos foram associadas à capacidade do anti-inflamatório em controlar a inflamação. Em conclusão, baseado da resposta de fase aguda, o flunixin em comparação com o meloxicam e o firocoxib é mais eficiente no controle da inflamação após a castração em equinos.(AU)

Effects of flunixin meglumine, meloxicam, and firocoxib on the acute-phase proteins in horses following standing castration / Efeitos do flunixin meglumine, meloxicam e firocoxib na concentração de proteínas da fase aguda após em equinos após castração

Excessive infection and inflammation are the most common complications associated with castration. The objective of this study was to compare the efficacy of flunixin meglumine (FM), meloxicam (MX), or firocoxib (FX) for inflammation control after castration in horses using acute-phase proteins (APP) as markers of inflammation. Thirty healthy, unbroken, mixed-breed horses (body weight 358.62±45.57kg and age 4.99±2.63 years) were randomly (n=10 animals/group) allocated to receive one of three different post-castration anti-inflammatory medicines: Group 1 (FM 1.1mg/kg bwt, IV, s.i.d for 5 days); Group 2 (MX 0.6mg/kg bwt, IV, s.i.d for 5 days); and Group 3 (FX 0.1mg/kg bwt, IV, s.i.d for 5 days). All horses were castrated in standing position, using the open technique. Serum and peritoneal APP concentrations were measured by sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) and determined before castration (0), and 3, 5, 24, 48, 72, 120 and 168 hours after castration. The results were submitted to analysis of variance using the SAS statistical program, and means were compared by the Student-Newman-Keuls test (p<0.05). Three animals from the MX group developed hyperthermia (with rectal temperatures of 39.8, 39.3 and 38.9°C on day 4, 5 and 6, respectively) and showed local clinical signs of inflammation (inguinal and excessive scrotal edema) and reluctance to walk, as well as a rigid gait of the hind limbs. The same complications were observed in one FX horse. No complications were observed among the FM animals. The castration resulted in significant changes in serum and peritoneal values of total proteins, ceruloplasmin (Cp), transferrin (Tf), albumin (Alb), haptoglobin (Hp) and α1-acid glycoprotein (Gp) in animals of all experimental groups. However, the animals of the MX and FX groups presented more intense acute phase response compared to the animals of the FM group. Changes in the APP were associated with the surgical trauma of castration, but the differences between groups were associated with the ability of the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug to control the inflammation. In conclusion, and based on the findings of acute phase proteins, flunixin is more efficient to control the magnitude of inflammation following castration as compared to meloxicam and firocoxib.(AU)

Infecção e inflamação excessivas são as complicações mais comuns associadas à castração. O objetivo deste estudo foi comparar a eficácia do flunixin meglumine (FM), meloxicam (MX) ou firocoxib (FX) no controle da inflamação após a castração em cavalos usando proteínas da fase aguda (APP) como marcadores de inflamação. Trinta equinos saudáveis (358,62±45,57kg; 4,99±2,63 anos) foram em função dos anti-inflamatórios utilizados após as castrações aleatoriamente (n= 10 animais/grupo) alocados em três diferentes grupos: Grupo 1 (FM 1,1mg/kg de peso, IV, sid por 5 dias); Grupo 2 (MX 0,6mg/kg de peso, IV, s.i.d por 5 dias); e Grupo 3 (FX 0,1mg/kg de peso, IV, s.i.d por 5 dias). Todos os cavalos foram castrados em posição quadrupedal, utilizando a técnica aberta. As concentrações de APP sérica e peritoneal foram separadas por eletroforese em gel de poliacrilamida (PAGE) com dodecil-sulfato de sódio (SDS) e determinadas no momento 0 (antes da castração) e com 3, 5, 24, 48, 72, 120 e 168 horas após a castração. Os resultados foram submetidos à análise de variância pelo programa estatístico SAS e as médias foram comparadas pelo teste de Student-Newman-Keuls (p<0,05). Três animais do grupo MX desenvolveram hipertermia (com temperatura retal de 39,8, 39,3 e 38,9° C nos dias 4, 5 e 6, respectivamente) e mostraram sinais clínicos locais de inflamação (edema inguinal e escrotal excessivo) e relutância em andar, bem como marcha rígida dos membros posteriores. As mesmas complicações foram observadas em um cavalo do FX. Não foram observadas complicações entre os animais do FM. Independente do grupo, a castração resultou em alterações significativas nos valores séricos e peritoneais de proteínas totais, ceruloplasmina (Cp), transferrina (Tf), albumina (Alb), haptoglobina (Hp) e glicoproteína ácida α1 (Gp). No entanto, os animais dos grupos MX e FX apresentaram resposta de fase aguda mais intensa quando comparados aos animais do FM. Alterações na resposta de fase aguda deveram-se ao trauma cirúrgico da castração, mas as diferenças entre os grupos foram associadas à capacidade do anti-inflamatório em controlar a inflamação. Em conclusão, baseado da resposta de fase aguda, o flunixin em comparação com o meloxicam e o firocoxib é mais eficiente no controle da inflamação após a castração em equinos.(AU)

Haptoglobin and its association with naturally occurring diseases in Holstein heifer calves / [Haptoglobina e sua associação com doenças ocorridas naturalmente em bezerras da raça Holandesa]

The present study evaluated the use of haptoglobin (Hp) as an indicator of health and performance in 166 Holstein heifer calves reared in an intensive production system. Calves were evaluated at D6-9; D10-13; D20-23; D35-38 and D65-68, corresponding to the days of life. The absence or presence of diseases was evaluated by physical examination and classification of scores. The performance parameters evaluated were body weight, height at withers and hind width. Hp was measured by spectrophotometric technique. The highest prevalence of diarrhea (59.4%; 98/165) was observed in D10-13, bovine respiratory disease (BRD) was on D35-38 (25.8%; 42/163), and umbilical inflammations in D6-D9 (7.8%; 13/166). Highest values of Hp were observed in animals with diarrhea (P=0.02), and umbilical inflammation (P=0.057), in comparison with the group of healthy calves. A significant negative correlation was observed between Hp and performance index. This protein presented an important relation with diarrhea and performance of the calves, opening perspectives on its utilization as a biomarker of diseases.(AU)

O presente estudo avaliou o uso da haptoglobina (Hp) como indicadora de sanidade e desempenho em 166 bezerras Holandesas criadas em um sistema de produção intensivo. As bezerras foram avaliadas nos momentos D6-9; D10-13; D20-23; D35-38 e D65-68, sendo estes correspondentes aos dias de vida. A ausência ou a presença de doenças foi avaliada por meio do exame físico e da classificação por escores. Os parâmetros de desempenho avaliados foram peso corporal, altura de cernelha e largura de garupa. A Hp foi mensurada por técnica espectrofotométrica. A maior prevalência de diarreia (59,4%; 98/165) foi observada em D10-13, doença respiratória bovina (DRB) ocorreu em D35-38 (25,8%; 42/163) e inflamações umbilicais em D6-D9 (7,8%; 13/166). O valor de Hp foi maior nos animais que apresentaram diarreia (P=0,02) e inflamações umbilicais (P=0,057), em comparação ao grupo de bezerras saudáveis. Houve correlação negativa significativa entre a Hp e os índices de desempenho. Essa proteína apresentou uma importante relação com a diarreia e com o desempenho das bezerras, abrindo perspectivas sobre a sua utilização como biomarcadora de doenças.(AU)

Correlation of serum acute-phase proteins with bone repair in rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) submitted to partial radio ostectomy / Correlação do proteinograma sérico com a reparação óssea em coelhos (Oryctolagus cuniculus) submetidos à ostectomia parcial do rádio

Bone trauma triggers an acute inflammatory response, which can alter the serum concentration of acute-phase proteins (PFA). We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of PFA measurement as a laboratory biomarker for inflammation related to bone regeneration. A partial ostectomy of the right radius was performed on 22 young male rabbits. The complete blood count, albumin, ceruloplasmin, haptoglobin, C-reactive protein, and transferrin levels were recorded and correlated with the radiographic evolution of bone healing. Statistically the best correlations with the inflammatory process and radiological findings were reported with haptoglobin and transferrin compared to the other measured PFAs. Haptoglobin and transferrin showed a maximum peak 24 and 36 hours after surgery, respectively. Transferrin displayed signs of decrease in the first 6 hours after surgery, in advance of the leukocyte response. The measurement of acute-phase proteins proved to be viable, considering the conditions in which the present study was carried out. Among all variables studied, haptoglobin and transferrin showed best correlation with the inflammatory process of bone healing. Additional studies are needed to determine the sensitivity of acute-phase proteins as predictors of complications in the treatment of fractures.(AU)

Os traumas ósseos desencadeiam resposta inflamatória aguda e consequentemente alteram a concentração sérica das proteínas de fase aguda (PFA), podendo essas representarem um parâmetro para avaliação da evolução do processo inflamatório relacionado à cicatrização óssea, assim como complicações. Objetivou-se avaliar a inter-relação da mensuração de PFAs com a repação óssea em coelhos submetidos à ostectomia parcial do rádio. Foram utilizados 22 coelhos, machos, jovens (160 a 180 dias) e peso médio (3,8 ± 0,3). Para acompanhamento da evolução do processo inflamatório foram realizados hemograma completo e mensuração de albumina, ceruloplasmina, haptoglobina, proteína C reativa e transferrina, além do acompanhamento radiológico. Foi observado a melhor correlação da haptoglobina e da transferrina junto ao processo inflamatório e achados radiológicos frente às demais PFAs mensuradas. A haptoglobina apresentou pico máximo 24 horas do pós-operatório e a transferrina após 36 horas, entretanto, essa última já mostrou indícios de diminuição nas primeiras 6 horas do pós-cirúrgico, antecipadamente à resposta leucocitária. Nas condições em que o presente estudo foi realizado, a mensuração das proteínas de fase aguda mostrou-se factível. Das proteínas estudadas, a haptoglobina e transferrina foram as que mostraram maior correlação com o processo inflamatório da cicatrização óssea. Estudos adicionais são necessários para determinar a sensibilidade das proteínas de fase aguda como previsores de complicações do tratamento das fraturas.(AU)

Effects of flunixin meglumine, meloxicam, and firocoxib on the acute-phase proteins in horses following standing castration

ABSTRACT: Excessive infection and inflammation are the most common complications associated with castration. The objective of this study was to compare the efficacy of flunixin meglumine (FM), meloxicam (MX), or firocoxib (FX) for inflammation control after castration in horses using acute-phase proteins (APP) as markers of inflammation. Thirty healthy, unbroken, mixed-breed horses (body weight 358.62±45.57kg and age 4.99±2.63 years) were randomly (n=10 animals/group) allocated to receive one of three different post-castration anti-inflammatory medicines: Group 1 (FM 1.1mg/kg bwt, IV, s.i.d for 5 days); Group 2 (MX 0.6mg/kg bwt, IV, s.i.d for 5 days); and Group 3 (FX 0.1mg/kg bwt, IV, s.i.d for 5 days). All horses were castrated in standing position, using the open technique. Serum and peritoneal APP concentrations were measured by sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) and determined before castration (0), and 3, 5, 24, 48, 72, 120 and 168 hours after castration. The results were submitted to analysis of variance using the SAS statistical program, and means were compared by the Student-Newman-Keuls test (p 0.05). Three animals from the MX group developed hyperthermia (with rectal temperatures of 39.8, 39.3 and 38.9°C on day 4, 5 and 6, respectively) and showed local clinical signs of inflammation (inguinal and excessive scrotal edema) and reluctance to walk, as well as a rigid gait of the hind limbs. The same complications were observed in one FX horse. No complications were observed among the FM animals. The castration resulted in significant changes in serum and peritoneal values of total proteins, ceruloplasmin (Cp), transferrin (Tf), albumin (Alb), haptoglobin (Hp) and 1-acid glycoprotein (Gp) in animals of all experimental groups. However, the animals of the MX and FX groups presented more intense acute phase response compared to the animals of the FM group. Changes in the APP were associated with the surgical trauma of castration, but the differences between groups were associated with the ability of the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug to control the inflammation. In conclusion, and based on the findings of acute phase proteins, flunixin is more efficient to control the magnitude of inflammation following castration as compared to meloxicam and firocoxib.

RESUMO: Infecção e inflamação excessivas são as complicações mais comuns associadas à castração. O objetivo deste estudo foi comparar a eficácia do flunixin meglumine (FM), meloxicam (MX) ou firocoxib (FX) no controle da inflamação após a castração em cavalos usando proteínas da fase aguda (APP) como marcadores de inflamação. Trinta equinos saudáveis (358,62±45,57kg; 4,99±2,63 anos) foram em função dos anti-inflamatórios utilizados após as castrações aleatoriamente (n= 10 animais/grupo) alocados em três diferentes grupos: Grupo 1 (FM 1,1mg/kg de peso, IV, sid por 5 dias); Grupo 2 (MX 0,6mg/kg de peso, IV, s.i.d por 5 dias); e Grupo 3 (FX 0,1mg/kg de peso, IV, s.i.d por 5 dias). Todos os cavalos foram castrados em posição quadrupedal, utilizando a técnica aberta. As concentrações de APP sérica e peritoneal foram separadas por eletroforese em gel de poliacrilamida (PAGE) com dodecil-sulfato de sódio (SDS) e determinadas no momento 0 (antes da castração) e com 3, 5, 24, 48, 72, 120 e 168 horas após a castração. Os resultados foram submetidos à análise de variância pelo programa estatístico SAS e as médias foram comparadas pelo teste de Student-Newman-Keuls (p 0,05). Três animais do grupo MX desenvolveram hipertermia (com temperatura retal de 39,8, 39,3 e 38,9° C nos dias 4, 5 e 6, respectivamente) e mostraram sinais clínicos locais de inflamação (edema inguinal e escrotal excessivo) e relutância em andar, bem como marcha rígida dos membros posteriores. As mesmas complicações foram observadas em um cavalo do FX. Não foram observadas complicações entre os animais do FM. Independente do grupo, a castração resultou em alterações significativas nos valores séricos e peritoneais de proteínas totais, ceruloplasmina (Cp), transferrina (Tf), albumina (Alb), haptoglobina (Hp) e glicoproteína ácida 1 (Gp). No entanto, os animais dos grupos MX e FX apresentaram resposta de fase aguda mais intensa quando comparados aos animais do FM. Alterações na resposta de fase aguda deveram-se ao trauma cirúrgico da castração, mas as diferenças entre os grupos foram associadas à capacidade do anti-inflamatório em controlar a inflamação. Em conclusão, baseado da resposta de fase aguda, o flunixin em comparação com o meloxicam e o firocoxib é mais eficiente no controle da inflamação após a castração em equinos.

Hematologic response and serum and peritoneal fluid proteinogram of cattle affected by intestinal diseases and traumatic reticuloperitonitis / Resposta hematológica e proteinograma sérico e do líquido peritoneal de bovinos acometidos com enfermidades intestinais e reticuloperitonite traumática

This study aimed to evaluate the hematologic response and the serum and peritoneal fluid (PF) proteinogram of cattle affected by digestive diseases. Twenty-seven animals were distributed in two groups: GI (intestinal diseases) and GII (traumatic reticuloperitonitis, TRP). The animals were previously submitted to a physical exam. Subsequently, blood samples were collected to perform the complete blood count, determine the plasma protein and fibrinogen, and obtain the serum for proteinogram in polyacrylamide gel (SDS-PAGE). Simultaneously, PF was collected to perform physical and chemical evaluation and the electrophoretic profile (SDS-PAGE). ANOVA at the 5% probability level was used to compare the groups. The animals showed signs of apathy, dehydration, and gastrointestinal hypomotility in both groups. However, GI animals showed more significant clinical changes. The blood count of both groups (P > 0.05) showed leukocytosis due to neutrophilia and a regenerative left shift with hyperfibrinogenemia. The proteinogram of both body fluids allowed the identification of proteins albumin (ALB), transferrin (TRF), ceruloplasmin, haptoglobin, α1-acid glycoprotein (α1-AGP), MW 23000 Da, α1-antitrypsin, IgA, and IgG. The [PT] PF/[PT] blood serum ratio of each of the identified proteins increased, showing statistical differences between groups (P < 0.05) regarding PT, ALB, TRF, α1-AGP, and IgG values, with GI animals showing the highest ratio. Intestinal diseases and TRP triggered a systemic and local response characterized by clinical, hematological, and serum and PF proteinogram alterations. The proteins α1-GPA, haptoglobin, and TRF measured in PF were good inflammation biomarkers and useful as an auxiliary tool for the diagnosis and prognosis of digestive diseases in cattle.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a resposta hematológica e o proteinograma sérico e do líquido peritoneal (LP) de bovinos acometidos com doenças digestivas. Foram avaliados 27 bovinos distribuídos em dois grupos, GI (enfermidades intestinais) e GII (reticuloperitonite traumática-RPT). Os animais foram previamente submetidos ao exame físico. Posteriormente foram colhidas amostras de sangue para realização do hemograma, determinação plasmática da proteína e do fibrinogênio e obtenção do soro para realização do proteinograma em gel de poliacrilamida (SDS-PAGE). Simultaneamente foi colhido o LP para avaliação física e química, assim como a realização do perfil eletroforético (SDS-PAGE). Empregou-se a análise de variância ao nível de 5% de probabilidade visando à comparação entre os grupos. Em ambos os grupos os animais demonstraram sinais de apatia, desidratação e hipomotilidade gastrointestinal, no entanto, os animais do GI apresentaram alterações clínicas mais expressivas. No hemograma observou-se em ambos os grupos (P > 0,05) leucocitose por neutrofilia e desvio à esquerda regenerativo com hiperfibrinogenia. O proteinograma de ambos os fluidos corpóreos permitiu a identificação das proteínas albumina (ALB), transferrina (TRF), ceruloplasmina, haptoglobina, α-1 glicoproteína ácida (α1-GPA), PM 23.000 Da, α-1 anti-tripsina, IgA e IgG. Os valores da relação [PT] LP / [PT] soro sanguíneo de cada uma das proteínas identificadas demonstrou elevação dos mesmos, bem como diferença estatística entre grupos (P < 0,05) nos valores da PT, ALB, TRF, α1-GPA e IgG, nos quais a relação foi mais elevada nos animais do GI. As enfermidades intestinais e a RPT desencadearam resposta sistêmica e local caracterizada pelas alterações clínicas, hematológicas, e do proteinograma sérico e do LP. A α1-GPA, a haptoglobina e a TRF, mensuradas no LP se mostraram bons biomarcadores de inflamação, sendo úteis como recurso auxiliar de diagnóstico e prognóstico das doenças digestivas dos bovinos.(AU)

LOPH and D-MHC in the treatment of FeLV associated acute leukemia in a cat

Background: Bone marrow primary malignancies are denominated leukemias, classified as myeloid or lymphoid, according to the cell lineage, and acute or chronic, according to the cell´s state of maturation. In cats, acute lymphoid leukemiais the most common form, especially in regions endemic for feline leukemia virus and / or feline immunodeficiency virus.A new treatment protocol for lymphomas, called LOPH, was described for animals with FeLV persistent viremia. Thisstudy aimed to report a case of a cat presenting with FeLV associated acute leukemia and treated with the LOPH protocol,and, in the rescue phase, a modification of the D-MAC protocol, denominated D-MHC.Case: A 4-year-old mixed breed intact queen was attended due to lethargy and inappetence. The patient did not present anyrelevant abnormalities in the clinical exam and complementary exams were performed including complete blood count,biochemical profile, SNAP Feline Triple Test, chest radiographs and abdominal ultrasound. Imaging tests and biochemicalvalues were unremarkable, but the patient presented a reagent result for FeLV and severe leukocytosis due to lymphocytosis. The morphological evaluation of the blood smear revealed the presence of blasts, in a concentration greater than 20%of the nucleated cells, which allowed the characterization of a leukemic state, probably lymphoid. First-line treatmentwas based on the LOPH protocol, including Lomustine, Vincristine, Prednisolone and Doxorubicin, in four-week cycles.Nevertheless, during the third cycle, 66 days after the institution of this protocol, the patient presented a febrile conditionalong with marked leukocytosis due to lymphocytosis, confirming leukemia recurrence. A rescue attempt was performedwith a modification of the D-MAC protocol, originally consisting of the combination of dexamethasone, melphalan, actinomycin-D and cytarabine, but with replacement of actinomycin-D by doxorubicin, and therefore denominated D-MHC....

LOPH and D-MHC in the treatment of FeLV associated acute leukemia in a cat

Background: Bone marrow primary malignancies are denominated leukemias, classified as myeloid or lymphoid, according to the cell lineage, and acute or chronic, according to the cell´s state of maturation. In cats, acute lymphoid leukemiais the most common form, especially in regions endemic for feline leukemia virus and / or feline immunodeficiency virus.A new treatment protocol for lymphomas, called LOPH, was described for animals with FeLV persistent viremia. Thisstudy aimed to report a case of a cat presenting with FeLV associated acute leukemia and treated with the LOPH protocol,and, in the rescue phase, a modification of the D-MAC protocol, denominated D-MHC.Case: A 4-year-old mixed breed intact queen was attended due to lethargy and inappetence. The patient did not present anyrelevant abnormalities in the clinical exam and complementary exams were performed including complete blood count,biochemical profile, SNAP Feline Triple Test, chest radiographs and abdominal ultrasound. Imaging tests and biochemicalvalues were unremarkable, but the patient presented a reagent result for FeLV and severe leukocytosis due to lymphocytosis. The morphological evaluation of the blood smear revealed the presence of blasts, in a concentration greater than 20%of the nucleated cells, which allowed the characterization of a leukemic state, probably lymphoid. First-line treatmentwas based on the LOPH protocol, including Lomustine, Vincristine, Prednisolone and Doxorubicin, in four-week cycles.Nevertheless, during the third cycle, 66 days after the institution of this protocol, the patient presented a febrile conditionalong with marked leukocytosis due to lymphocytosis, confirming leukemia recurrence. A rescue attempt was performedwith a modification of the D-MAC protocol, originally consisting of the combination of dexamethasone, melphalan, actinomycin-D and cytarabine, but with replacement of actinomycin-D by doxorubicin, and therefore denominated D-MHC....(AU)

Agents of pneumonia in slaughtered pigs in southern Brazil

ABSTRACT: A high prevalence of pneumonic lesions has been reported to affect slaughtered pigs in southern Brazil. In order to identify which microorganisms have been causing those lesions, 30 pig lungs presenting pneumonic gross lesions were collected from five different slaughterhouses, totaling 150 lungs. Samples for bacterial isolation, molecular, histopathologic and immunohistochemistry (IHC) evaluation were taken from each lung. The pneumonic lesion scoring ranged from 1.53 to 2.83. The most frequent histopathological lesions found was the concomitant Influenza A virus (IAV) and Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae infection, corresponding to 55.3% (83/150), and Pasteurella multocida type A was isolated in 54.2% (45/83) of these cases. In 102 samples (68%), there was histopathologic suggestion of involvement of more than one infectious agent. M. hyopneumoniae was the most frequent agent associated with pneumonic lesions, being present in 92.1% (94/102) of the lungs with coinfections, followed by IAV in 89.2% (91/102). Besides the coinfections, IAV lesions were observed also in six samples without another pathogenic microorganism detected. A total of 46 samples with acute and subacute IAV suspected lesions in histopathological examination were assessed for IHC and real time RT-PCR for IAV. A total of 35% (16/46) of them were positive by IHC and 13% (6/46) by real time RT-PCR. Regarding M. hyopneumoniae, 79.3% (119/150) of samples were positive by qPCR and 84.9% (101/119) of them also presented M. hyopneumoniae suspected lesions in the histopathological examination. The results of this study suggest the importance of IAV in respiratory diseases in finishing pigs, even though this virus is more frequently reported in the nursery phase. In addition, our results emphasize the importance of lung coinfections in finishing pigs.

RESUMO: Lesões sugestivas de pneumonia são frequentemente encontradas em altas prevalências em suínos abatidos no sul do Brasil. Para identificar quais microrganismos causam essas lesões, foram coletados 30 pulmões de suínos com lesão macroscópica sugestiva de pneumonia em cinco frigoríficos diferentes, totalizando 150 pulmões. Amostras para isolamento bacteriano, avaliação molecular, histopatológica e imuno-histoquímica (IHC) foram coletadas de cada pulmão. O escore de lesão pulmonar variou entre 1,53 a 2,83. O achado histopatológico mais observado foi a lesão sugestiva de infecção concomitante pelo vírus Influenza A (IAV) e Mycoplasma (M.) hyopneumoniae, correspondendo a 55,3% (83/150), e em 54,2% (45/83) desses casos Pasteurella (P.) multocida tipo A foi isolado. Em 102 amostras (68%), houve lesão histopatológica sugestiva do envolvimento de mais de um agente infeccioso. M. hyopneumoniae foi o microrganismo mais frequente associado a lesões de pneumonia, estando presente em 92,1% (94/102) dos pulmões com coinfecções, seguido de IAV, que foi encontrado em 89,2% (91/102). Além das coinfecções, lesões de IAV foram observadas em mais seis amostras que não aparentavam envolvimento de outro agente infeccioso. Um total de 46 amostras com suspeita de lesão aguda e subaguda de IAV no exame histopatológico foram avaliadas para IHC e RT-PCR em tempo real para IAV e 35% (16/46) delas foram positivas por IHC e 13% (6/46) foram positivas por RT-PCR em tempo real. Com relação a M. hyopneumoniae, 79,3% (119/150) das amostras foram positivas por qPCR e 84,9% (101/119) delas também apresentaram lesões suspeitas de M. hyopneumoniae no exame histopatológico. Os resultados deste trabalho sugerem a importância do IAV como agente causador de pneumonias em suínos de terminação, embora esse vírus seja mais frequentemente relatado na fase de creche. Além disso, os achados deste trabalho demonstram a presença frequente de coinfecções pulmonares em suínos de terminação.

Use of Saccharomyces cerevisiae-based products and effects on rumen environment and performance of sheep subjected to dietary changes / Utilização de produtos à base de Saccharomyces cerevisiae e seus efeitos sobre o ambiente ruminal e desempenho de ovinos submetidos a mudanças de dieta

Natural additives in ruminant diet optimizes animal performance by controlling or modifying the rumen fermentation pattern. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of using Saccharomyces cerevisiae products during abrupt changes in dietary starch concentration on ruminal pH maintenance, performance and metabolism of confined sheep. Twenty adult ewes, crossbred Texel x Corriedale(44.7±6.97 Kg BW) were divided into three groups: Control (n=6), Cultron X (yeast culture; n=7) and Cultron Pro (hydrolyzed yeast; n=7), administered at a dose of 5 g/sheep/day (10x1010CFU/g DM). The experiment lasted 20 days divided into four periods, alternating between 40 and 60% concentrate. Blood and ruminal fluid were collected at the end of each period, and daily dry matter intake was measured to determine the average daily gain (ADG). Blood tests included blood count and biochemical parameters such as glucose, urea, total plasma proteins (TPP), liver enzymes, acute phase proteins and minerals. There was an upward trend in ADG in group Cultron X compared to control in period 3. Although, ruminal pH did not differ between groups, protozoan motility was higher in animals supplemented with hydrolyzed yeast. The Cultron Pro group showed an increase in TPP in periods 3 and 4, and AST in periods 2 and 3 compared to the control group. There was no difference in other metabolites. Yeast supplementation is a potential tool in times of feeding challenge, in which yeast culture is the most effective for improving performance of confined sheep being in improving performance of confined sheep.(AU)

A utilização de aditivos naturais na dieta de ruminantes é uma prática que otimiza o desempenho, controlando ou modificando o padrão de fermentação ruminal. O objetivo do estudo buscou avaliar os efeitos da utilização de produtos à base de Saccharomyces cerevisiae durante mudanças na concentração de amido da dieta sobre a manutenção do pH ruminal, desempenho e metabolismo de ovinos confinados. Dessa forma, 20 fêmeas ovinas adultas mestiças das raças Texel e Corriedale (44,7±6,97 PV) foram divididas em três grupos: Controle (n=6), Cultron X (cultura de levedura; n=7) e Cultron Pro (levedura hidrolisada; n=7), administrados na dose de 5 g/ovelha/dia (10x1010ufc/g de MS). O experimento teve duração de 20 dias divididos em quatro períodos, alternando entre 40 e 60% de concentrado. Foram realizadas coletas de sangue e líquido ruminal ao final de cada período e mensuração da ingestão de matéria seca diariamente, a fim de determinar o ganho médio diário (GMD). As análises sanguíneas incluíram hemograma e parâmetros bioquímicos como glicose, ureia, proteínas plasmáticas totais (PPT), enzimas hepáticas, proteínas de fase aguda e minerais. Houve tendência de aumento no GMD no grupo Cultron X em relação ao controle no período 3. Apesar do pH ruminal não diferir entre grupos, a motilidade de protozoários foi melhor nos animais suplementados com levedura hidrolisada. O grupo Cultron Pro apresentou aumento de PPT nos períodos 3 e 4 e aumento nos níveis da enzima hepática AST nos períodos 2 e 3 em comparação ao grupo controle. Não houve diferença nos demais metabólitos. A suplementação com levedura apresentou-se como potencial ferramenta em momentos de desafio alimentar, sendo a cultura de levedura mais eficaz na melhora da performance de ovinos confinados.(AU)