Effect of a single or two doses of an anti-GnRH vaccine on testicle morpho-functional characteristics in Nelore bulls.

The aim of this study was to compare testicle morpho-functional characteristics in bulls undergoing a single or two immunizations against GnRH. Nelore (Bos taurus indicus) bulls were randomly allocated into three experimental groups: G1 (n=12), a single 400 µg dose of anti-GnRH vaccine on day 0; G2 (n=11), a first 400 µg dose of anti-GnRH vaccine on day 0 followed by a second (boost) dose 30 days later; and control group (CG, n=12), 1 mL saline 0.9% at day 0. Every 30 days, from day 0 until slaughter at day 90, the bulls were weighed and underwent testicular biometry, semen collection and analysis, and blood sample collection for testosterone measurement. Immediately after slaughter, the testicles were removed and transport at 15°C to the laboratory for histopathological analysis. There was a decrease in testicular height (P=0.0476), width (P=0.0021), and in scrotal circumference (P=0.0001), after either a single (G1) or two (G2) immunizations against GnRH. Both G1 and G2 had lower testosterone concentrations than CG from day 60 on (P<0.01), but in G2, it was also lower than in G1 at day 90 (P=0.0006). All sperm parameters were affected by active immunization against GnRH (P<0.05), and in G2, averages were lesser (P<0.05) than in G1 from day 60 on. No signs of seminiferous tubule degeneration were found in any sample from the CG, contrasting with 75.0% and 100.0% of the samples from G1 and G2, respectively. In summary, immunocastration affected testicle morpho-functional characteristics in bulls in a time- and dose-dependent way.

Undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma in a white-eared opossum (Didelphisalbiventris).

We report a case of high-grade undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma in a free-living white-eared opossum (Didelphis albiventris) in Central Brazil. Grossly, it appeared as a soft yellow mass, approximately 8 cm in diameter, with an irregular, adherent and ulcerated surface, which extended from the proximal epiphysis of the femur to the proximal third of the tibia and fibula. The mass invaded the medullary cavity and had a necrotic centre. Multiple nodular metastases (0.5-1.5 cm) were present in the liver, lungs and spleen. Histologically, the neoplasm was characterized by pleomorphic cells with indistinct boundaries, many multinucleated cells, necrosis and tissue invasion. There was intense cytoplasmic immunolabelling of neoplastic cells for vimentin and moderate cytoplasmic and nuclear labelling for human muscle actin, human smooth muscle actin and lysozyme. Immunolabelling for Iba1, CD18, CD1A, cytokeratin AE1/AE3, glial fibrillary acidic protein and desmin was negative. To our knowledge, this is the first report of an undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma in this species.

Crotalaria spectabilis poisoning in horses fed contaminating oats.

The present report describes the clinical and pathological changes induced by the consumption of oats contaminated with Crotalaria spectabilis seeds by horses. Eighty horses were exposed to oats containing 10 g/kg of C. spectabilis seeds with 0.46% pyrrolizidine alkaloids, and 21 horses died within a 6-month period. Clinical signs included jaundice, apathy, a hypotonic tongue, ataxia, hyporexia, weight loss, aimless wandering, violent behavior, and proprioceptive deficits. Pathological findings were predominant in the liver and included periportal bridging fibrosis, megalocytosis, centrilobular necrosis, and bile stasis. Other findings were Alzheimer's type II astrocytes in the cortex, midbrain, basal nuclei, brainstem and pons; multifocal edema and hemorrhage in the lungs; and degeneration and necrosis of the tubular epithelium of kidneys. Horses are highly sensitive to pyrrolizidine alkaloid-containing plants, and the observed clinical and pathological findings are typical of this poisoning. The seeds were planted, and botanical identification of the adult plants confirmed the diagnosis of C. spectabilis poisoning.

Conidiobolomycosis, cryptococcosis, and aspergillosis in sheep and goats: a review.

We review herein infections by Conidiobolus spp., Cryptococcus spp., and Aspergillus spp. in sheep and goats. Conidiobolus spp. are common causes of rhinitis in sheep and are less frequent in goats, in which Conidiobolus spp. also cause skin lesions. Cryptococcus spp. cause rhinitis, meningitis, encephalitis, and pneumonia in goats, and are rarely observed in sheep. Aspergillus spp. may cause rhinitis in goats, and pneumonia and mastitis in sheep and goats. Gross and microscopic lesions caused by these 3 fungal infections may be similar to each other. The diagnosis of these diseases must be based on gross and microscopic lesions, coupled with detection of the agent by immunohistochemical, molecular, and/or culture-based methods.

Sida carpinifolia (Malvaceae) poisoning in fallow deer (Dama dama).

A captive fallow deer (Dama dama) in a zoo was spontaneously poisoned after consumption of Sida carpinifolia. The paddock where cervids were kept was severely infested by S. carpinifolia. The deer developed a neurological syndrome characterized by muscular weakness, intention tremors, visual and standing-up deficits, falls, and abnormal behavior and posture. Because a severe mandibular fracture and the consequent deteriorating condition, it was euthanized. Main microscopic findings were swelling and multifocal cytoplasmic vacuolation in the Purkinje cells. The cytoplasm of multiple cells of the cerebellum, especially the Purkinje cells, stained with the lectins Concanavalia ensiformis, Triticum vulgaris, and succinylated Triticum vulgaris. Diagnostic possibilities such as bovine diarrhea virus, rabies, and transmissible spongiform encephalopathy were excluded. The report focuses on the risk of maintaining S. carpinifolia populations in zoo enclosures of wild herbivores.

Pathological findings in dogs after multiple Africanized bee stings.

This retrospective study included 19 dogs that died by intoxication due to multiple Africanized bee stings. Bee accidents occurred in rural and urban areas of the Rio Grande do Sul state, southern Brazil. Although bee stings were associated with edema and hyperemia in several regions of the body, head and neck were the most commonly and massively affected areas. Stingers and bees were also observed in the digestive tract. Dark-colored kidneys, dark-red urine, splenomegaly, and dark red lungs were the main gross changes. Histologically, all the dogs had kidney tubular degeneration and necrosis, which were associated with tubular pigment accumulation in most cases. Other lesions included muscular necrosis, hemorrhage in different organs, marked congestion of the spleen and pulmonary edema and congestion.

Human neuron-astrocyte 3D co-culture-based assay for evaluation of neuroprotective compounds.

INTRODUCTION: Central nervous system drug development has registered high attrition rates, mainly due to the lack of efficacy of drug candidates, highlighting the low reliability of the models used in early-stage drug development and the need for new in vitro human cell-based models and assays to accurately identify and validate drug candidates. 3D human cell models can include different tissue cell types and represent the spatiotemporal context of the original tissue (co-cultures), allowing the establishment of biologically-relevant cell-cell and cell-extracellular matrix interactions. Nevertheless, exploitation of these 3D models for neuroprotection assessment has been limited due to the lack of data to validate such 3D co-culture approaches. METHODS: In this work we combined a 3D human neuron-astrocyte co-culture with a cell viability endpoint for the implementation of a novel in vitro neuroprotection assay, over an oxidative insult. Neuroprotection assay robustness and specificity, and the applicability of Presto Blue, MTT and CytoTox-Glo viability assays to the 3D co-culture were evaluated. RESULTS: Presto Blue was the adequate endpoint as it is non-destructive and is a simpler and reliable assay. Semi-automation of the cell viability endpoint was performed, indicating that the assay setup is amenable to be transferred to automated screening platforms. Finally, the neuroprotection assay setup was applied to a series of 36 test compounds and several candidates with higher neuroprotective effect than the positive control, Idebenone, were identified. DISCUSSION: The robustness and simplicity of the implemented neuroprotection assay with the cell viability endpoint enables the use of more complex and reliable 3D in vitro cell models to identify and validate drug candidates.

Anatomopathological findings of Testudines necropsied in the Distrito Federal, Brazil / Achados anatomopatológicos de Testudines necropsiados no Distrito Federal, Brasil

In order to determine the main anatomopathological findings of Testudines necropsied in the Distrito Federal, all necropsy records performed at the "Laboratório de Patologia Veterinária" of the "Universidade de Brasília" (LPV-UnB) on Testudines during the period from January 2008 to July 2020 were reviewed. The 72 cases reviewed were grouped and classified according to species, sex, origin, season of occurrence, and diagnosis. In 69.44% of the cases the species was informed in the necropsy protocols, which included Phrynops geoffroanus (38%), Trachemys dorbigni (36%), Chelonoidis carbonaria (14%), Chelonoidis denticulata (10%) and Podocnemis expansa (2%). In 30.55% of the cases this parameter was not informed and were classified only as Testudines. In 41.66% of the cases the sex was informed, being female 22.22%, male 19.44%, and 58.33% were not informed. Of these animals 79.16% were from environmental agencies and 20.84% from zoos and/or guardians. In 70.83% of the animals analyzed they were directly related to the autumn and winter seasons, with June being the most frequent month (29.17%). The conclusive diagnosis was possible in 68.05% of the cases. The category of disorders caused by injurious agents (48.97%) was the most prevalent, followed by inflammatory disorders (32.65%) and nutritional and metabolic disorders (28.57%). The main diagnoses were carapace and/or plastron fracture with 30.61%, hepatic steatosis (20.40%) and pneumonia (10.22%). Most cases of carapace or plastron fracture and hepatic steatosis occurred in animals from environmental agencies.(AU)

Com o objetivo de determinar os principais achados anatomopatológicos de Testudines necropsiados no Distrito Federal, foram revisadas todas as fichas de necropsia realizadas no Laboratório de Patologia Veterinária da Universidade de Brasília (LPV-UnB) em Testudines, durante o período de janeiro de 2008 a julho de 2020. Os 72 casos revisados foram agrupados e classificados quanto à espécie, sexo, procedência, estação do ano de ocorrência e diagnóstico. Em 69,44% dos casos havia a espécie informada nos protocolos de necropsia, que incluíam Phrynops geoffroanus (38%), Trachemys dorbigni (36%), Chelonoidis carbonaria (14%), Chelonoidis denticulata (10%) e Podocnemis expansa (2%). Em 30,55% dos casos não tiveram esse parâmetro informado e foram classificados apenas como Testudines. Em 41,66% casos foi informado o sexo, sendo fêmea 22,22%, macho 19,44% e não informados 58,33%. Destes animais 79,16% eram de órgão ambiental e 20,84% de zoológicos e ou tutores. Em 70,83% dos animais analisados tiveram direta relação com as estações de outono e inverno, sendo o mês de junho o mais frequente (29,17%). O diagnóstico conclusivo foi possível em 68,05% dos casos. A categoria de distúrbios causados por agentes lesivos (48,97%) foi a mais prevalente, seguido por distúrbios inflamatórios (32,65%) e dos distúrbios nutricionais e metabólicos (28,57%). Os principais diagnósticos foram fratura de carapaça e ou plastrão com 30,61%, esteatose hepática (20,40%) e pneumonia (10,22%). A maior parte dos casos de fratura de carapaça ou plastrão e de esteatose hepática ocorreram em animais provenientes de órgão ambiental.(AU)

Anatomopathological findings of Testudines necropsied in the Distrito Federal, Brazil / Achados anatomopatológicos de Testudines necropsiados no Distrito Federal, Brasil

In order to determine the main anatomopathological findings of Testudines necropsied in the Distrito Federal, all necropsy records performed at the "Laboratório de Patologia Veterinária" of the "Universidade de Brasília" (LPV-UnB) on Testudines during the period from January 2008 to July 2020 were reviewed. The 72 cases reviewed were grouped and classified according to species, sex, origin, season of occurrence, and diagnosis. In 69.44% of the cases the species was informed in the necropsy protocols, which included Phrynops geoffroanus (38%), Trachemys dorbigni (36%), Chelonoidis carbonaria (14%), Chelonoidis denticulata (10%) and Podocnemis expansa (2%). In 30.55% of the cases this parameter was not informed and were classified only as Testudines. In 41.66% of the cases the sex was informed, being female 22.22%, male 19.44%, and 58.33% were not informed. Of these animals 79.16% were from environmental agencies and 20.84% from zoos and/or guardians. In 70.83% of the animals analyzed they were directly related to the autumn and winter seasons, with June being the most frequent month (29.17%). The conclusive diagnosis was possible in 68.05% of the cases. The category of disorders caused by injurious agents (48.97%) was the most prevalent, followed by inflammatory disorders (32.65%) and nutritional and metabolic disorders (28.57%). The main diagnoses were carapace and/or plastron fracture with 30.61%, hepatic steatosis (20.40%) and pneumonia (10.22%). Most cases of carapace or plastron fracture and hepatic steatosis occurred in animals from environmental agencies.

Com o objetivo de determinar os principais achados anatomopatológicos de Testudines necropsiados no Distrito Federal, foram revisadas todas as fichas de necropsia realizadas no Laboratório de Patologia Veterinária da Universidade de Brasília (LPV-UnB) em Testudines, durante o período de janeiro de 2008 a julho de 2020. Os 72 casos revisados foram agrupados e classificados quanto à espécie, sexo, procedência, estação do ano de ocorrência e diagnóstico. Em 69,44% dos casos havia a espécie informada nos protocolos de necropsia, que incluíam Phrynops geoffroanus (38%), Trachemys dorbigni (36%), Chelonoidis carbonaria (14%), Chelonoidis denticulata (10%) e Podocnemis expansa (2%). Em 30,55% dos casos não tiveram esse parâmetro informado e foram classificados apenas como Testudines. Em 41,66% casos foi informado o sexo, sendo fêmea 22,22%, macho 19,44% e não informados 58,33%. Destes animais 79,16% eram de órgão ambiental e 20,84% de zoológicos e ou tutores. Em 70,83% dos animais analisados tiveram direta relação com as estações de outono e inverno, sendo o mês de junho o mais frequente (29,17%). O diagnóstico conclusivo foi possível em 68,05% dos casos. A categoria de distúrbios causados por agentes lesivos (48,97%) foi a mais prevalente, seguido por distúrbios inflamatórios (32,65%) e dos distúrbios nutricionais e metabólicos (28,57%). Os principais diagnósticos foram fratura de carapaça e ou plastrão com 30,61%, esteatose hepática (20,40%) e pneumonia (10,22%). A maior parte dos casos de fratura de carapaça ou plastrão e de esteatose hepática ocorreram em animais provenientes de órgão ambiental.

Anatomopathological findings of Testudines necropsied in the Distrito Federal, Brazil

ABSTRACT: In order to determine the main anatomopathological findings of Testudines necropsied in the Distrito Federal, all necropsy records performed at the Laboratório de Patologia Veterinária of the Universidade de Brasília (LPV-UnB) on Testudines during the period from January 2008 to July 2020 were reviewed. The 72 cases reviewed were grouped and classified according to species, sex, origin, season of occurrence, and diagnosis. In 69.44% of the cases the species was informed in the necropsy protocols, which included Phrynops geoffroanus (38%), Trachemys dorbigni (36%), Chelonoidis carbonaria (14%), Chelonoidis denticulata (10%) and Podocnemis expansa (2%). In 30.55% of the cases this parameter was not informed and were classified only as Testudines. In 41.66% of the cases the sex was informed, being female 22.22%, male 19.44%, and 58.33% were not informed. Of these animals 79.16% were from environmental agencies and 20.84% from zoos and/or guardians. In 70.83% of the animals analyzed they were directly related to the autumn and winter seasons, with June being the most frequent month (29.17%). The conclusive diagnosis was possible in 68.05% of the cases. The category of disorders caused by injurious agents (48.97%) was the most prevalent, followed by inflammatory disorders (32.65%) and nutritional and metabolic disorders (28.57%). The main diagnoses were carapace and/or plastron fracture with 30.61%, hepatic steatosis (20.40%) and pneumonia (10.22%). Most cases of carapace or plastron fracture and hepatic steatosis occurred in animals from environmental agencies.

RESUMO: Com o objetivo de determinar os principais achados anatomopatológicos de Testudines necropsiados no Distrito Federal, foram revisadas todas as fichas de necropsia realizadas no Laboratório de Patologia Veterinária da Universidade de Brasília (LPV-UnB) em Testudines, durante o período de janeiro de 2008 a julho de 2020. Os 72 casos revisados foram agrupados e classificados quanto à espécie, sexo, procedência, estação do ano de ocorrência e diagnóstico. Em 69,44% dos casos havia a espécie informada nos protocolos de necropsia, que incluíam Phrynops geoffroanus (38%), Trachemys dorbigni (36%), Chelonoidis carbonaria (14%), Chelonoidis denticulata (10%) e Podocnemis expansa (2%). Em 30,55% dos casos não tiveram esse parâmetro informado e foram classificados apenas como Testudines. Em 41,66% casos foi informado o sexo, sendo fêmea 22,22%, macho 19,44% e não informados 58,33%. Destes animais 79,16% eram de órgão ambiental e 20,84% de zoológicos e ou tutores. Em 70,83% dos animais analisados tiveram direta relação com as estações de outono e inverno, sendo o mês de junho o mais frequente (29,17%). O diagnóstico conclusivo foi possível em 68,05% dos casos. A categoria de distúrbios causados por agentes lesivos (48,97%) foi a mais prevalente, seguido por distúrbios inflamatórios (32,65%) e dos distúrbios nutricionais e metabólicos (28,57%). Os principais diagnósticos foram fratura de carapaça e ou plastrão com 30,61%, esteatose hepática (20,40%) e pneumonia (10,22%). A maior parte dos casos de fratura de carapaça ou plastrão e de esteatose hepática ocorreram em animais provenientes de órgão ambiental.

Conidiobolomycosis in goats / Conidiobolomicose em caprinos

The present article presents cases of conidiobolomycosis in adult goats with clinical signs characterized by serous nasal discharge, dyspnea, apathy, and weight loss. Two goats were necropsied. Necropsy displayed increased volume on the sagittal section of the head and an ulcerated surface containing a yellow friable mass with irregular and granular consistency in the nasal septum and in the ventral nasal turbinate. One goat also presented lesions on the ear's skin and the right pelvic limb. Microscopically, lesions were characterized by multifocal granulomas with a central necrotic area containing non-stained fungal hyphae images surrounded by a granulomatous infiltrate. Samples of the lesions examined by immunohistochemistry and polymerase chain reaction were positive for Conidiobolus lamprauges. This is the first report of conidiobolomycosis in goats, and the disease should be considered in the differential diagnoses for rhinitis and dermatitis in goats.(AU)

O presente artigo apresenta casos de conidiobolomicose em cabras adultas com sinais clínicos caracterizados por secreção nasal serosa, dispneia, apatia e perda de peso. Dois caprinos foram necropsiados. Na necropsia, em corte sagital da cabeça, foi observado aumento de volume e superfície ulcerada contendo massa amarela e friável com consistência irregular e granular no septo nasal e conchas nasais ventrais. Uma cabra apresentou também lesões na pele da orelha e no membro pélvico direito. Microscopicamente, as lesões foram caracterizadas por granulomas multifocais com área central de necrose, contendo imagens de hifas fúngicas não coradas, circundadas por infiltrado inflamatório granulomatoso. Amostras das lesões submetidas à imuno-histoquímica e reação em cadeia da polimerase foram positivas para Conidiobolus lamprauges. Este é o primeiro registro de conidiobolomicose em caprinos e deve ser considerado no diagnóstico diferencial de rinite e dermatite em caprinos.(AU)

Conidiobolomycosis in goats

ABSTRACT: The present article presents cases of conidiobolomycosis in adult goats with clinical signs characterized by serous nasal discharge, dyspnea, apathy, and weight loss. Two goats were necropsied. Necropsy displayed increased volume on the sagittal section of the head and an ulcerated surface containing a yellow friable mass with irregular and granular consistency in the nasal septum and in the ventral nasal turbinate. One goat also presented lesions on the ears skin and the right pelvic limb. Microscopically, lesions were characterized by multifocal granulomas with a central necrotic area containing non-stained fungal hyphae images surrounded by a granulomatous infiltrate. Samples of the lesions examined by immunohistochemistry and polymerase chain reaction were positive for Conidiobolus lamprauges. This is the first report of conidiobolomycosis in goats, and the disease should be considered in the differential diagnoses for rhinitis and dermatitis in goats.

RESUMO: O presente artigo apresenta casos de conidiobolomicose em cabras adultas com sinais clínicos caracterizados por secreção nasal serosa, dispneia, apatia e perda de peso. Dois caprinos foram necropsiados. Na necropsia, em corte sagital da cabeça, foi observado aumento de volume e superfície ulcerada contendo massa amarela e friável com consistência irregular e granular no septo nasal e conchas nasais ventrais. Uma cabra apresentou também lesões na pele da orelha e no membro pélvico direito. Microscopicamente, as lesões foram caracterizadas por granulomas multifocais com área central de necrose, contendo imagens de hifas fúngicas não coradas, circundadas por infiltrado inflamatório granulomatoso. Amostras das lesões submetidas à imuno-histoquímica e reação em cadeia da polimerase foram positivas para Conidiobolus lamprauges. Este é o primeiro registro de conidiobolomicose em caprinos e deve ser considerado no diagnóstico diferencial de rinite e dermatite em caprinos.

Congenital malformations and other reproductive losses in goats due to poisoning by Poincianella pyramidalis (Tul.) L.P. Queiroz (=Caesalpinia pyramidalis Tul.).

In the semiarid region of Brazil, in areas with vegetation composed mainly of Poincianella pyramidalis, several cases of congenital malformation and reproductive losses were observed in goats and sheep from 2012 to 2014. To determine the teratogenic effect of P. pyramidalis, two groups of eight goats each were used. Goats from Group 1 received fresh P. pyramidalis, harvested daily, as the only roughage during the whole breeding and pregnancy period. Goats in Group 2 (control) received Cynodon dactylon (tifton) hay free choice. Ultrasound examination for pregnancy diagnosis was performed every 28 days. Four goats from Group 1 were pregnant on day 28 but not on day 56, suggesting embryonic death or abortion. Another goat from Group 1 died at day 70 of pregnancy, and the fetuses exhibited micrognathia. The other three goats bore six kids, three of which showed bone malformations in the limbs, spine, ribs, sternum, and head, including arthrogryposis, scoliosis and micrognathia. One kid also showed hypoplasia of the left pulmonary lobes. In the control group, all goats bore a total of 13 kids and none of them exhibited malformations. These results demonstrated that P. pyramidalis causes congenital malformations and other reproductive losses in goats.

Quantitative study of wild animals received at the Wild Animals Triage Centers (CETAS) in Bahia and identification of trafficking routes / Estudo quantitativo de animais silvestres recebidos nos Centros de Triagens de Animais Silvestres (CETAS) da Bahia e identificação de rotas de tráfico

In Brazil, the illegal capture of wild animals is a crime that contributes to the extinction of species, besides causing environmental imbalance and suffering to the animals. Here, we undertook a quantitative survey of animals sent to the "Centro de Triagem de Animais Silvestres" (CETAS - Wild Animals Triage Centers) from units of Porto Seguro, Salvador, and Vitória da Conquista during 2009-2019. The 19,317, 34,460, and 43,874 specimens were registered in the units of Porto Seguro, Vitória da Conquista, and Salvador, respectively. The distribution of the totals by class included 80,948 (82.90%) birds, 12,007 (12.30%) reptiles, 4,661 (4.77%) mammals, and 35 arachnids (0.03%). The operations that generated registration at the CETAS were most frequently apprehensions (67,974; 69.67%), followed by voluntary surrender (13,367; 13.69%), rescues (12,803; 13.11%), and transfers (2,735; 2.67%). The animals came from 236 municipalities in the state of Bahia, with emphasis on the municipalities of Salvador, Vitória da Conquista, Feira de Santana, Lençóis, Jequié, and Paulo Afonso. The evaluation of the quantitative seizures by municipalities indicates that the BR-116 is one of the most representative routes for the illegal traffic of wild animals in the state of Bahia and the country.(AU)

No Brasil a captura ilegal de animais silvestres é crime e contribui para a extinção das espécies, além de causar desequilíbrios ambientais e sofrimentos aos animais. Este trabalho apresenta quantitativos de animais recebidos e/ou armazenados nos Centros de Triagem de Animais Silvestres (CETAS) do estado da Bahia, no período de 2009-2019. Os totais de 19.317, 34.460 e 43.874 espécimes foram registrados nas unidades de Porto Seguro, Vitória da Conquista e Salvador, respectivamente. A distribuição dos totais por classe incluiu 80.948 (82,90%) aves, 12.007 (12,30%) répteis, 4.661 (4,77%) mamíferos e 35 aracnídeos. Quanto à natureza da operação que gerou o registro nos CETAS, as mais frequentes foram apreensão (67.974; 69,67%), entrega voluntária (13.367; 13,69%), resgate (12.803; 13,11%) e transferência (2.735; 2,67%). Os animais foram apreendidos em 236 municípios do estado da Bahia, com destaque para Salvador, Vitória da Conquista, Feira de Santana, Lençóis, Jequié e Paulo Afonso. A avaliação dos quantitativos das apreensões por municípios indica que a BR-116 é uma das rotas de escoamento mais representativa do tráfico ilegal de animais silvestres, no estado da Bahia e no país.(AU)

Parasitic lesions in fish in the Federal District, Brazil

Brazil has a vast territory and favorable climatic conditions that allow the cultivation of freshwater fish. The intensification of the productive system can cause an imbalance in the aquatic environment as a result of poor water quality, nutritional deficiencies and infectious or parasitic diseases. The laboratory diagnosis and the determination of the prevalence of the main lesions, which occur in a certain region, help to guide towards the etiological diagnosis. This study aimed to describe the main parasitic lesions in fish in the routine at the Veterinary Pathology Laboratory of the Universidade de Brasília (UnB). All records of fish with parasitic lesions were recovered. Those cases in which there was an intralesional parasite and which presented lesions compatible with the parasite were included. The screening of ectoparasites was done by scraping the superficial mucus from the gills and skin. Organ sections were routinely processed for histopathologyand stained with hematoxylin-eosin (HE). In some records, parasitological identification was carried. The information was divided into the species of the affected fish, epidemiology of the outbreak (water quality, temperature, type of breeding), lesion distribution, etiology and macroscopic and microscopic changes. The resulting data was organized in absolute frequency and percentage. In this study, 22 cases were counted, between individual deaths and outbreaks, totaling 83 necropsied teleost fish. Inflammatory changes of parasitic origin were seen in 13/22 (59%) of the cases had lesions of parasitic origin. Skin lesions and gills were the most relevant. Macroscopically, red areas or spots of hyperemia or hemorrhage on the body surface were the most prevalent findings. Under microscopy, proliferative gill inflammation was the most relevant diagnosis. Pscinoodinium pilullare (Dinoflagellida), Ichthyophthirius multifiliis (Ciliophora), and monogenetic worms (Monogenea) were the main parasites found. Trichodina sp. (Ciliophora), Ichtyobodo sp. (Kinetoplastida), Amoebas, and Chilodonella sp. (Ciliophora), were seen in fewer numbers. An unusual case suggestive of parasitism by Eustrongylides sp. (Nematoda), in a pirá-brasília (Simpsonichthys boitonei), specimen has been recorded. The diagnoses were based on epidemiology, anatomopathological and parasitological findings. The most frequent and significantly lethal lesion in the study was proliferative and / or hyperplastic branchitis. Proliferative branchitis with lamellar epithelial hyperplasia (LEH) is a response to some type of chemical or mechanical injury to the gill epithelium in order to protect the capillaries from further damage or microbial penetration. However, it also increases the diffusion distance between capillaries and the environment and, therefore, hinders breathing, excretory and osmoregulatory functions. Protozoan infections and monogenetic worms in general generated LEH and skin lesions of mechanical origin. Secondary bacterial infection, were observed in this parasitosis determining the cause of death of the fish. Its pathogenicity comes from the lesions caused by the colonization and histophagy of the epithelial surfaces, mainly gills and skin, causing epithelial proliferation, lamellar cell fusion, epithelial cell degeneration and necrosis forming several ulcers in the epithelium after the release of mature trophies. The pathogenesis of parasitism by Eustrongylides spp. is considerable when there is a large quantity of these larvae that can cause intestinal obstruction, rupture and compression of viscera, of greater importance in small fish. The main parasites of necropsied fish were protozoa and monogenetic worms, which mainly cause branquitis and dermatitis in varying grades.(AU)

Quantitative study of wild animals received at the Wild Animals Triage Centers (CETAS) in Bahia and identification of trafficking routes

ABSTRACT: In Brazil, the illegal capture of wild animals is a crime that contributes to the extinction of species, besides causing environmental imbalance and suffering to the animals. Here, we undertook a quantitative survey of animals sent to the Centro de Triagem de Animais Silvestres (CETAS - Wild Animals Triage Centers) from units of Porto Seguro, Salvador, and Vitória da Conquista during 2009-2019. The 19,317, 34,460, and 43,874 specimens were registered in the units of Porto Seguro, Vitória da Conquista, and Salvador, respectively. The distribution of the totals by class included 80,948 (82.90%) birds, 12,007 (12.30%) reptiles, 4,661 (4.77%) mammals, and 35 arachnids (0.03%). The operations that generated registration at the CETAS were most frequently apprehensions (67,974; 69.67%), followed by voluntary surrender (13,367; 13.69%), rescues (12,803; 13.11%), and transfers (2,735; 2.67%). The animals came from 236 municipalities in the state of Bahia, with emphasis on the municipalities of Salvador, Vitória da Conquista, Feira de Santana, Lençóis, Jequié, and Paulo Afonso. The evaluation of the quantitative seizures by municipalities indicates that the BR-116 is one of the most representative routes for the illegal traffic of wild animals in the state of Bahia and the country.

RESUMO: No Brasil a captura ilegal de animais silvestres é crime e contribui para a extinção das espécies, além de causar desequilíbrios ambientais e sofrimentos aos animais. Este trabalho apresenta quantitativos de animais recebidos e/ou armazenados nos Centros de Triagem de Animais Silvestres (CETAS) do estado da Bahia, no período de 2009-2019. Os totais de 19.317, 34.460 e 43.874 espécimes foram registrados nas unidades de Porto Seguro, Vitória da Conquista e Salvador, respectivamente. A distribuição dos totais por classe incluiu 80.948 (82,90%) aves, 12.007 (12,30%) répteis, 4.661 (4,77%) mamíferos e 35 aracnídeos. Quanto à natureza da operação que gerou o registro nos CETAS, as mais frequentes foram apreensão (67.974; 69,67%), entrega voluntária (13.367; 13,69%), resgate (12.803; 13,11%) e transferência (2.735; 2,67%). Os animais foram apreendidos em 236 municípios do estado da Bahia, com destaque para Salvador, Vitória da Conquista, Feira de Santana, Lençóis, Jequié e Paulo Afonso. A avaliação dos quantitativos das apreensões por municípios indica que a BR-116 é uma das rotas de escoamento mais representativa do tráfico ilegal de animais silvestres, no estado da Bahia e no país.

Novel scalable 3D cell based model for in vitro neurotoxicity testing: Combining human differentiated neurospheres with gene expression and functional endpoints.

There is an urgent need for new in vitro strategies to identify neurotoxic agents with speed, reliability and respect for animal welfare. Cell models should include distinct brain cell types and represent brain microenvironment to attain higher relevance. The main goal of this study was to develop and validate a human 3D neural model containing both neurons and glial cells, applicable for toxicity testing in high-throughput platforms. To achieve this, a scalable bioprocess for neural differentiation of human NTera2/cl.D1 cells in stirred culture systems was developed. Endpoints based on neuronal- and astrocytic-specific gene expression and functionality in 3D were implemented in multi-well format and used for toxicity assessment. The prototypical neurotoxicant acrylamide affected primarily neurons, impairing synaptic function; our results suggest that gene expression of the presynaptic marker synaptophysin can be used as sensitive endpoint. Chloramphenicol, described as neurotoxicant affected both cell types, with cytoskeleton markers' expression significantly reduced, particularly in astrocytes. In conclusion, a scalable and reproducible process for production of differentiated neurospheres enriched in mature neurons and functional astrocytes was obtained. This 3D approach allowed efficient production of large numbers of human differentiated neurospheres, which in combination with gene expression and functional endpoints are a powerful cell model to evaluate human neuronal and astrocytic toxicity.

Single-Dose, Randomized, Open-Label, Two-Way, Crossover Bioequivalence Study of Two Formulations of Pregabalin 300 mg Hard Capsules in Healthy Volunteers Under Fasting Conditions.

AIMS: This bioequivalence study was conducted to assess the bioequivalence of two formulations, test and reference, of pregabalin 300 mg hard capsules, under fasting conditions. METHODS: This was a single-center, randomized, single-dose, open-label, laboratory-blinded, two-way crossover study, with a minimum washout period of 7 days. Plasma samples were collected prior to and up to 36 h after dosing. Pregabalin plasma concentrations were determined, using a validated method, by reversed phase high performance liquid chromatography coupled to a tandem mass spectrometry detector (LC-MS-MS). Pharmacokinetic metrics used for bioequivalence assessment were the AUC(0-t) (area under the plasma concentration-time curve from time zero to time of last observed non-zero plasma concentration) and the C max (maximum observed plasma concentration). These parameters were determined from the pregabalin plasma concentration data using noncompartmental analysis. RESULTS: Forty healthy subjects, age ranging from 18 to 43 years old, were enrolled and randomized, of whom 39 completed the study. The ratio of geometric least square means for C max was 99.29 % (90 % confidence interval [CI] 93.29-105.67). The ratio of geometric least square means for AUC(0-t) was 101.54 % (90 % CI 100.13-102.98). The 90 % CIs were within the predefined range (80.00-125.00). CONCLUSIONS: Bioequivalence between test and reference formulations, under fasting conditions, was concluded both in terms of rate and extent of absorption.

Testicular and seminal evaluation of goats fed hay Cenostigma pyramidale / Avaliação testicular e seminal de caprinos alimentados com feno de Cenostigma pyramidale

This study aimed to assess the possible occurrence of reproductive changes in male goats associated with ingestion of Cenostigma pyramidale hay. Sixteen animals divided into two experimental groups, G1 and G2 (control group) were used. Animals in G1 received 2% of forage, based on live weight (LW), composed of 100% of C. pyramidale, and animals in G2 received 2% of Panicum maximum "Massai' grass hay, based on LW. Both groups received 1% of concentrated feed supplementation based on LW, along with mineralized salt and water ad libitum. The goats were subjected to weighing, testicular biometry, and semen and blood collection every 30 days. After 120 days, the animals were castrated and their testes were collected. Testicular measurements were performed and fragments were collected for histological processing to determine the gonadosomatic index (GSI), diameter of the seminiferous tubules, height of the germinal epithelium (HGE), volumetric proportion and volume of the testicular parenchyma components, total length of the seminiferous tubules, length of the seminiferous tubules per gram of testis, and leydigosomatic and tubulosomatic indexes. The data were evaluated for normality using the Student's t-test. Data with normal distribution were assessed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and the non-parametric data were evaluated using the Kruskal-Wallis test, both at 5% probability. Statistically significant differences (p<0.05) were observed for GSI (G1=0.48 ±0.08 and G2=0.34 ±0.09) and HGE (G1=52.95 ±2.99 and G2=.47.63 ±2.67) between treatments. Consumption of C. pyramidale hay increased LW and, consequently, testicular weight, contributing to high GSI. In conclusion, ingestion of C. pyramidale has no toxic effect on the testicular, seminal and histological parameters of goat testis. Due to its nutritional characteristics, consumption of this plant improves animal body development. Because C. pyramidale is adapted to semi-arid regions, it can be an alternative source of feed for goats during periods of shortage.(AU)

Para avaliar a possível ocorrência de alterações reprodutivas em caprinos machos associado ao consumo de Cenostigma pyramidale, foram utilizados 16 animais divididos em dois grupos experimentais, G1 e G2 (grupo controle). Animais pertencentes ao G1 receberam 2% de volumoso, com base no peso vivo (PV), constituído de 100% de C. pyramidale e o G2 receberam 2%, com base no PV, de feno de Panicum maximum 'Massai'. Todos os grupos receberam 1%, com base no PV, de suplementação concentrada, além de sal mineralizado e água ad libitum. A cada 30 dias os animais eram submetidos à pesagem, biometria testicular e coletas de sêmen. O sêmen foi avaliado quanto ao volume, turbilhonamento, vigor, motilidade, concentração espermática, defeitos maiores, menores e totais. Após 120 dias os animais foram castrados e os testículos coletados. Foram realizadas as mensurações testiculares e coletados fragmentos para o processamento histológico, para determinação do índice gonadossomático, diâmetro dos túbulos seminíferos, altura do epitélio germinativo, proporção volumétrica e volume dos componentes do parênquima testicular, comprimento total dos túbulos seminíferos, comprimento de túbulo seminífero por grama de testículo, índices leydigossomático e tubulossomático. Os dados foram avaliados quanto à normalidade pelo teste t de Student, os dados com distribuição normal foram analisados por análise de variância com 5% de probabilidade e os não paramétricos, pelo teste de Kruskal-Wallis, a 5% de probabilidade. Houve diferenças significativas (p<0,05) para índice gonadossomático (G1=0,48±0,08 e G2=0,34±0,09) e altura do epitélio germinativo (G1=52,95±2,99 e G2=47,63±2,67) entre os tratamentos. O feno de catingueira promoveu aumento no peso corporal e consequentemente maior peso testicular, o que contribui para elevação do IGS. Concluiu-se que o consumo da C. pyramidale não possui efeito tóxico sobre os parâmetros testiculares, seminais e histológicos do testículo dos caprinos e que a planta, por suas características nutricionais promoveu melhora no desenvolvimento corporal dos animais e por ser uma planta adaptada ao clima do semiárido, se constitui uma fonte alternativa de alimentação para esta categoria animal, durante períodos de escassez de alimento.(AU)

Epidemiological aspects of natural poisoning by Prosopis juliflora in ruminants in semiarid areas of the state of Bahia, Brazil, invaded by the plant / Aspectos epidemiológicos da intoxicação natural por Prosopis juliflora em ruminantes em áreas do semiárido baiano invadidas pela planta

Poisoning by Prosopis juliflora (mesquite) leads to neurological signs, cachexia and death, mainly in cattle and goats. Although the uncontrolled spread of mesquite in the Caatinga biome (biological invasion), which alters the epidemiological conditions of intoxication by this plant, has been proved for approximately 20 years, strategies for its control and prophylaxis still remain out of date. These new epidemiological conditions have allowed the uncontrolled consumption of large amounts of in natura mesquite pods by ruminants for long periods in invaded pastures, thus resulting in increased history of poisoning. This study aimed to describe the new epidemiological aspects of P. juliflora poisoning in cattle and goats, 78 years after the introduction of this plant in the country, with emphasis on its degree of invasion, and to update the control and prophylaxis measures of this intoxication and the mapping of areas of outbreak occurrence in the semiarid region of the state of Bahia, Brazil. Seven outbreaks of natural mesquite poisoning, two in goats (OB 1 and OB 2) and five in cattle (OB 3, OB 4, OB 5, OB 6, and OB 7), were studied in loco in the municipalities of Juazeiro, Iaçu, Tucano, Santa Teresinha, Barra do Mendes, Barra and Tabocas do Brejo Velho. In the studied outbreaks, clinical-epidemiological (OB 1 to OB 7) and histopathological (OB 1, OB 2, OB 3, and OB 5) findings were compatible with mesquite poisoning, and this was the first anatomopathological proof of poisoning by this plant in this state. In addition, in the state of Bahia, disease occurs in an area approximately three times larger than previously known. On the farms investigated, mesquite introduction occurred between 1980 and 2005, through the single planting of an average of 33 seedlings. Since then, propagation of this plant has occurred progressively, with gradual invasion of native pastures, which enabled the evaluation of plant spread (biological invasion) on these farms 15 (OB 2), 25 (OB 7), 30 (OB 5 and OB 6), 35 (OB 3) and 40 (OB 1 and OB 4) years after its introduction. Historical information on the introduction and spread of mesquite in the state of Bahia had never been analyzed. In 2020, a degree of mesquite invasion an average 59.57% was verified in the pastures of the seven farms where the outbreaks occurred. The great biological invasion capacity of this plant drew attention, especially in OB 5. The high degree of mesquite invasion observed (new epidemiological conditions) justifies the increased number of cases of poisoning observed in this study. Processing of P. juliflora pods (grinding) was not carried out on any farm (OB 1 to OB 7), and ruminants uncontrollably consumed large amounts of pods in natura for long periods in invaded pastures, which allowed massive dispersal of seeds through feces over decades. The main factors responsible for the gradual invasion of pastures by mesquite over time were absence of crop management plans (silvicultural treatments) and lack of knowledge by producers on disease etiology. Given the new epidemiological conditions, restriction of animal access to in natura pods in pastures and supply of mesquite bran are crucial for the control and prophylaxis of this poisoning, as consumption of in natura pods had a strong correlation with the high degree of invasion in the pastures where the seven outbreaks occurred. Additionally, although the commercialization of pods and exploitation of wood of mesquite trees can provide livestock farmers with extra income - being the correct management for areas invaded by this plant, such practice is either not yet known or not carried out technically or satisfactorily by farmers. In addition to being a threat to the Caatinga's biodiversity, the increasing invasion of semiarid areas by mesquite 78 years after its introduction in the Northeast region of Brazil, is a risk for herds, since the occurrence of poisoning outbreaks may become more frequent. Therefore, it is highly advisable that effective measures be adopted to control P. juliflora propagation.(AU)

A intoxicação por Prosopis juliflora (algaroba) cursa com sinais neurológicos, caquexia e morte, principalmente em bovinos e caprinos. Embora a disseminação descontrolada da algaroba na Caatinga (invasão biológica) tenha sido comprovada há cerca de 20 anos, o que altera as condições epidemiológicas dessa intoxicação, as estratégias de controle e profilaxia permanecem desatualizadas. Essas novas condições epidemiológicas permitem o consumo descontrolado de grande quantidade de vagens in natura de algaroba, por longos períodos, nas pastagens invadidas, o que tem resultado em aumento dos históricos de intoxicação. Objetivou-se com esse estudo descrever os novos aspectos epidemiológicos da intoxicação por P. juliflora em bovinos e caprinos, 78 anos após a introdução da planta no país, com ênfase no grau de invasão da planta, bem como atualizar as medidas de controle e profilaxia dessa intoxicação e das áreas de ocorrência dos surtos no semiárido baiano. Foram estudados in loco sete surtos (S1 a S7) de intoxicação natural por algaroba, sendo dois em caprinos (S1 e S2) e cinco em bovinos (S3, S4, S5, S6 e S7) no semiárido baiano (Juazeiro, Iaçu, Tucano, Santa Teresinha, Barra do Mendes, Barra e Tabocas do Brejo Velho). Nos surtos estudados, os achados clínico-epidemiológicos (S1 a S7) e histopatológicos (S1, S2, S3 e S5) foram compatíveis com intoxicação por algaroba, sendo essa intoxicação comprovada, pela primeira vez, com exames anatomopatológicos na Bahia. Ademais, na Bahia a doença ocorre em uma área cerca de três vezes maior do que a, até então, conhecida. Nas fazendas estudadas a introdução da algaroba ocorreu entre 1980 e 2005, através do plantio único de, em média, 33 mudas. Desde então, a disseminação da planta ocorreu de forma progressiva, invadindo gradativamente as pastagens nativas, o que permitiu avaliar a disseminação da planta (invasão biológica) nessas fazendas cerca de 15 (S2), 25 (S7), 30 (S5 e S6), 35 (S3) e 40 (S1 e S4) anos, após sua introdução. Informações históricas acerca da introdução da algaroba e sua disseminação na Bahia nunca haviam sido estudadas. Em 2020, verificou-se que nas pastagens das sete fazendas onde os surtos ocorreram, o grau de invasão por algaroba alcançou, em média, 59,57%. Chamou a atenção a grande capacidade de invasão biológica da planta, sobretudo, no S5. O alto grau de invasão da algaroba observado (novas condições epidemiológicas) justificou o aumento dos casos de intoxicação verificados nesse estudo. O beneficiamento das vagens (moagem) não era realizado em nenhuma fazenda (S1 a S7) e os ruminantes consumiam de forma descontrolada (livre) grande quantidade de vagens in natura, por longos períodos, nas pastagens invadidas, o que possibilitou a dispersão massiva das sementes da planta pelas fezes ao longo das décadas. O que aliado à inexistência de um plano de manejo do cultivo (tratamentos silviculturais) e ao desconhecimento da etiologia da doença pelos produtores foram os principais fatores responsáveis pela invasão gradativa da planta nas pastagens, ao longo dos anos, o que justifica o aumento dos casos de intoxicação observados na Bahia. Frente às novas condições epidemiológicas, a restrição do acesso dos animais as vagens in natura nas pastagens e o fornecimento do farelo de algaroba são cruciais para o controle e profilaxia dessa intoxicação, pois o consumo das vagens in natura teve forte correlação com o alto grau de invasão das pastagens onde os sete surtos ocorreram. Adicionalmente, embora a comercialização das vagens e a exploração da madeira da algaroba possam proporcionar renda extra aos pecuaristas e serem boas formas de manejo de áreas invadidas por algaroba, tais práticas ainda não são conhecidas ou não são realizadas de forma técnica ou a contento. A crescente invasão da algaroba no semiárido, 78 anos após a sua introdução no Nordeste, além de ser uma ameaça à biodiversidade da Caatinga é um risco para os rebanhos, visto que, a ocorrência de surtos de intoxicação podem se tornar mais frequentes. Desta maneira alerta-se para adoção de medidas efetivas de controle da propagação descontrolada da algaroba.(AU)