Milk Macrophage Function in Bovine Leukemia Virus-Infected Dairy Cows.

The implications of bovine leukemia virus (BLV) on innate and adaptive immune responses have been widely investigated; however, the effects of BLV on mammary gland immunity require further investigation. The present study investigated the viability, phagocytic capacity, and intracellular production of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) by macrophages in milk samples from dairy cows naturally infected with BLV with or without persistent lymphocytosis (PL). No effect of BLV infection in the overall number of macrophages per milliliter and in the percentage of viable macrophages among overall milk viable cells was found. Furthermore, BLV-infected dairy cows had a higher frequency of viable milk macrophages, while healthy animals had a tendency toward a higher percentage of apoptotic milk macrophages. The percentage of milk macrophages that phagocytosed Staphylococcus aureus in seronegative animals was higher than that in BLV-infected dairy cows. No effect of BLV infection on the intracellular RONS production and the intensity of phagocytosis by milk macrophages was observed. Thus, this study provides new insights into the implications of BLV infections in the bovine mammary gland.

Spatial distribution of anti-rabies post-exposure treatments associated with the decentralization process in Belo Horizonte, 2007 to 2011

Cases of canine attacks on people are reported because of the proximity of the dog to the households in several Brazilian cities. In the present study, we aim to evaluate post-exposure anti-rabies treatments with canine accidents between the years 2007 to 2011 in Belo Horizonte - MG. Duly notified data were obtained from the National System of Notifiable Diseases (SINAN). The spatial characteristics of the cases during the period of the study referred to the neighborhoods and the nine sanitary districts of the municipality of Belo Horizonte - MG. For georeferencing and spatial analysis, we used the software Maporama to identify the coordinates and the Geographic Information System ArcGIS for mapping. Considering the 6.153 prophylactic services that were georeferenced, the Norte, Venda Nova, Leste, and Centro Sul regions were highlighted due to the higher frequency of registered cases. It is suggested that an integrative action focused on canine population control, health education and epidemiological surveillance studies could contribute to the reduction of canine aggression cases.

Profile of American tegumentary leishmaniasis in transmission areas in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, from 2007 to 2017.

BACKGROUND: American tegumentary leishmaniasis (ATL) is a widespread anthropozoonosis caused by protozoa of the genus Leishmania and is considered a serious public health problem. The aim of this study was to provide a descriptive analysis of confirmed ATL cases and evaluate the spatial distribution of ATL in high-risk transmission areas from the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. METHODS: An ecological, analytical, and retrospective study of the confirmed cases of ATL in Minas Gerais from 2007 to 2017 was conducted. To characterize these cases, multiple correspondence analysis and georeferencing of the ATL prevalence rates in the municipalities were conducted based on variables obtained at Sistema Nacional de Agravos de Notificação and Instituto Brasileiro de Geografia e Estatística databases. RESULTS: There were 13,025 confirmed cases of ATL from 74.4% (635) municipalities of Minas Gerais, corresponding to a prevalence rate of 66.5 cases for every 100,000 inhabitants. Males aged 20 to 59 years and individuals who attended elementary school were most affected with ATL. Multiple correspondence analysis presented an accumulated qui-squared value of 44.74%, proving that there was a relationship between the variables, including ethnicity, age, pregnancy status, zone of infection, and number of cases. CONCLUSION: We confirmed that ATL is endemic to Minas Gerais, and there is high risk of infection within the municipalities due to a high rate of parasite transmission. The occurrence of infection in children, pregnant women, and the indigenous population demonstrates the need for the government to expand social policies aimed at vulnerable groups.

Epidemiological determinants of Chrysomya (Diptera: calliphoridae) infestation in layer farms of Minas Gerais, Brazil / Determinantes epidemiológicos da infestação por Chrysomya (Diptera: Calliphoridae) em granjas avícolas de postura de Minas Gerais, Brasil

Aspects related to the epidemiology of Diptera belonging to genus Chrysomya were studied in order to determine predisposing factors for their occurrence in commercial laying hens farms from the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. An observational, analytical and sectional survey was conducted to verify the main epidemiological determinants of infestations by Chrysomya spp. Forty-three farms were visited in 2012 and these 13 (30,23%) were infested by Chrysomya putoria, 4 (9,30%) by Chrysomya megacephala and 2 (4,65%) by Chrysomya albiceps and in 2 farms (4,65%) was not possible to identify the species of Chrysomya. The epidemiological determinants for the occurrence of infestations by Chrysomya spp. were investigated using multiple logistic regression models. Housing clustering type and its conditions were important factors involved in epidemiology of these species (OR=5.05, 95% CI = 2.66 to 9.58, p = 0.000). It was also observed that the increase of the humidity of manure leads to increase chances of infestations (OR = 1.81, 95% CI = 1.36 to 2.40, p = 0.000). The presence of the beetle "lesser mealworm" (Alphitobiusdiaperinus) (OR = 0.15, 95% CI = 0.067 to 0.36, p = 0.000) was characterized as a protective factor against infestations, probably due to predation behavior of the beetle. Some regions of the state were characterized as lower risk areas for Chrysomya spp. infestation as compared to other regions. Management measures, such as constant monitoring of water leaks on manure, adequate composting of dead poultry and periodic removal of manure could assist in decreasing the presence of Chrysomya spp. inside the laying houses.

Aspectos relacionados à epidemiologia das infestações por dípteros do gênero Chrysomyaforam estudados com o objetivo de determinar os fatores predisponentes para sua ocorrência em granjas comerciais de postura do estado de Minas Gerais, Brasil. Foi realizado um estudo observacional, analítico e seccional para verificar os principais determinantes epidemiológicos das infestações por Chrysomya spp. Foram visitadas 43 granjas avícolas em 2012 e dessas 13 (30,23%) apresentaram infestação por Chrysomya putoria, 4 (9,30%) por Chrysomya megacephala, 2 (4,65%) por Chrysomya albiceps e em 2 granjas (4,65%) não foi possível identificar as espécies de Chrysomya. A verificação dos determinantes epidemiológicos foi realizada utilizando modelos de regressão logística múltipla. Diferenças entre os núcleos das granjas avícolas e que não foram avaliadas neste estudo, apresentaram-se importantes na epidemiologia destas moscas (OR=5.05 95% IC = 2.66 a 9.58, p = 0.000). Observou-se também que o aumento na umidade do esterco dos aviários aumenta as chances de ocorrência de infestações (OR = 1.81, 95% IC = 1.36 a 2.40, p = 0.000). A presença de coleópteros popularmente conhecidos como "Cascudinhos", Alphitobiusdiaperinus (OR = 0.15, 95% IC = 0.067 a 0.36, p = 0.000), foi caracterizada como um fator protetor contra infestações, provavelmente devido ao comportamento predador deste coleóptero. Algumas regiões do estado apresentaram menores chances de ocorrência de infestações por Chrysomya spp. quando comparadas a outras regiões. Algumas medidas de manejo, como monitoramento constante de vazamentos de água no esterco, compostagem adequada de aves mortas e remoção periódica do esterco, poderiam auxiliar na diminuição da presença de Chrysomya spp. no interior dos galpões de postura.

Feline immunodeficiency virus in Northern Ceará, Brazil.

OBJECTIVES: The objectives of this study were to confirm the prevalence of feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) infection in domestic cats in the region north of Ceará, Brazil, and to determine the factors associated with infection and the major circulating subtypes of the virus in this area. METHODS: Samples from 148 cats were collected and tested using anti-FIV antibody screening, with confirmation of positive results by PCR. Univariate analysis was performed considering the epidemiological characteristics and FIV status. Sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of the gag and pol genes were performed to confirm the FIV subtype. RESULTS: Nine cats (6.1%) tested positive for FIV - one female (0.7%) and eight males (5.4%). Male cats were significantly more likely to be infected (P <0.05). Phylogenetic analysis of gag and pol gene sequences indicated that the FIV isolates circulating in the study area belonged to subtype B. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: In this study, we demonstrated a low prevalence for FIV in the northwest of Ceará, north-eastern Brazil. Male sex is a significant risk factor for FIV infection and the best predictive factor for FIV status. All isolates examined in this study clustered within subtype B, which is the predominant subtype in Brazil. This is the first report of genetic characterization of FIV in the state of Ceará, Brazil.

Spatio-temporal study of diagnosis of rabies in vampire bats in Sergipe (Brazil), between 1987 and 2014 / Estudo espaço-temporal de diagnósticos da raiva em morcegos hematófagos em sergipe (brasil), entre 1987 e 2014

Rabies is a zoonosis of great importance for human and animal health, being responsible for a progressive and acute encephalitis in humans and animals. Considering that the correct viral identification has serious implications for the prophylaxis and treatment, is important a diagnostic system specifically designed for monitoring the infection cases. The objective of the study was to describe the occurrence of rabies in hematophagous bats (Desmodus rotundus) analyzing many diagnoses performed in the state of Sergipe. The objective of this study was to describe the occurrence of rabies in hematophagous bats (Desmodus rotundus) from an analysis of the diagnoses performed in the state of Sergipe. An observational, descriptive and retrospective study was conducted with the evaluation of 935 rabies diagnoses in bats (D. rotundus) between 1987 and 2014. It was noticed that only one case was positive in the city of Aracaju in the year 2000 and no positive bat was identified with the rabies virus in the rural area. The results show the need to increase the monitoring of rabies in other species of non-hematophagous bats, and especially in other wild reservoirs. It is suggested that the monitoring of rabies take into account the specific ecosystem of each region, since Brazil has continental dimensions and a great biological diversity.

Araiva é uma zoonose de grande importância para a saúde humana e animal, sendo responsável por uma encefalite progressiva e aguda em humanos e animais. Considerando que a correta identificação viral tem sérias implicações para a profilaxia e tratamento, é importante um sistema de diagnóstico especificamente projetado para monitorar os casos de infecção. O estudo teve como objetivo descrever a ocorrência da raiva em morcegos hematófagos (Desmodus rotundus) a partir da análise dos diagnósticos realizados no estado de Sergipe. Foi realizado um estudo observacional, descritivo e retrospectivo com avaliação de 935 diagnósticos de raiva em morcegos (D. rotundus) entre os anos de 1987 a 2014. Percebeu-se que apenas um caso foi positivo na cidade de Aracaju no ano 2000 e nenhum morcego positivo foi identificado com o vírus da raiva na área rural. Os resultados demonstram a necessidade de ampliar o monitoramento da raiva em outras espécies de morcegos não hematófagos e sobretudo em outros reservatórios selvagens. Sugere-se que o monitoramento da raiva leve em consideração o ecossistema específico de cada região brasileira, já que o Brasil tem dimensões continentais e uma grande diversidade biológica.

Epidemiological characterization and risk evaluation associated with the presence of Phthirapterain poultry farms from Minas Gerais, Brazil

Phthirapteraare lice highly adapted to living as permanent and obligatory ectoparasites of birds and mammals. High infestations by biting lice contribute to the low productivity, loss quality of the eggs, besides weight decrease of chickens. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate and to characterize the risks involved with the presence of biting lice in laying chicken from Minas Gerais, Brazil, throught a Multiple Correspondence Analysis (MCA). A secondary database with information regarding 402 chicken houses from 42 properties of laying hens from the same region was used and adapted for this study. The variables that composed the correspondence model were selected through Chi-square tests (p ≤ 0.05). A risk index was designed to relate the presence of biting lice out of variables such as risk factors related to the presence of these ectoparasites. The MCA graphic designed to conduct the epidemiological characterization of the presence of biting lice presented a Chi-square accumulated value of 53.59%. There was an association between the risk index and the synanthropic birds, subsistence hens, presence of lice and other ectoparasites in shelters and ectoparasites control. These results provide knowledge about the Phthirapteraepidemiology. Besides that, this information may contribute to the decision-making process in order to reduce the risk of possible infestations in poultry farms and the negative effects of the infestations.

Synanthropic diptera affecting layer poultry farms: a review / Dípteros sinantrópicos de importância para a avicultura de postura: uma revisão

The poultry farm of posture is an economic activity of great relevance to Brazil. Health aspects of flocks of laying chickens, such as the occurrence of infestations by parasites and poultry pests, influence significantly the productivity indicators. In this context, the control of synanthropic diptera is one of the challenges of the poultry farmers and professionals of this area. In Brazil, the control of flies in poultry environments is based mainly on the use of pesticides, while other alternatives are less frequent. Among the flies' species most regularly found in poultry farms are the Musca domestica, Chrysomya spp., Fannia spp., and others. This review aims at compiling the literature on the occurrence, impact on poultry systems, biology, epidemiology and control of the species of synanthropic flies considered important for the Brazilian poultry industry.(AU)

A avicultura de postura é uma atividade econômica de grande relevância para o Brasil. Aspectos sanitários dos plantéis de galinhas poedeiras, tais como infestações por parasitos e pragas avícolas, influenciam significativamente os indicadores de produtividade desse setor. Nesse contexto, o controle de dípteros sinantrópicos constitui um dos desafios de avicultores e profissionais da área. No Brasil, o controle de moscas em ambientes avícolas é baseado, sobretudo, no uso de pesticidas, ao passo que o uso de outras alternativas é menos recorrente. Entre as espécies de moscas mais frequentes em granjas avícolas de postura, destacam-se Musca domestica, Chrysomya spp., Fannia spp., entre outras. O objetivo desta revisão é realizar a compilação da literatura existente sobre a ocorrência, o impacto nos sistemas avícolas, a biologia, a epidemiologia e o controle das espécies de dípteros sinantrópicos consideradas importantes para a avicultura de postura brasileira.(AU)

Virulence factors and phylotyping of Escherichia coli isolated from non-diarrheic and diarrheic water buffalo calves / Caracterização dos fatores de virulência e filogrupos de Escherichia coli isoladas de bezerros bubalinos sem diarreia e diarréicos

ABSTRACT: This study aimed to determine the virulence factors, phylogenetic groups, and the relationships between pathovars and phylogenetic groups of E. coli strains isolated from feces of buffalo calves. A total of 217 E. coli strains were obtained from feces after culture and were screened by PCR for detection of virulence factors EAST-1, enterohemolysin, Saa, CNF2, F41, F5, STa, intimin, Stx1 and Stx2. One hundred and thirty-four isolates were positive for one or more virulence factors: eighty-four from diarrheic animals, and fifty from non-diarrheic calves. The pathovars of E. coli identified in diarrheic feces were ETEC (F5+) (2/84), NTEC (16/84), STEC (20/84), EPEC (3/84), EHEC (3/84), and EAEC (EAST-1+) (33/84). Pathovars identified in non-diarrheic animals were NTEC (21/50), STEC (17/50), EHEC (1/50) and EAEC (7/50). E. coli strains positive for EAST-1 (P=0.008) and phylogroup C (P = 0.05) were associated with the presence of diarrhea. Phylogenetic analysis showed that 58.95% of the isolates belonged to phylogroup B1, followed by E (9.70%), B2 (5.90%), C (5.90%), D (5.22%), A (2.24%), and F (1.50%). Phylogroup B1 predominated in pathogenic E. coli isolated from water buffalo, and phylogroup C constituted an enteropathogenic E. coli for water buffalo calves.

RESUMO: O objetivo foi determinar os fatores de virulência, os grupos filogenéticos e as possíveis relações entre os patovares e os grupos filogenéticos identificados de cepas de Escherichia coli isoladas de fezes de bezerros bubalinos. Um total de 217 amostras de E. coli foram identificadas a partir de cultura das fezes e submetidas a reação em cadeia da polimerase (PCR) para detecção dos fatores de virulência EAST-1, enterohemolisina, Saa, CNF2, F41, F5, STa, intimina, Stx1 e Stx2. Foram identificadas 134 cepas positivas para um ou mais fatores de virulência: 84isoladas de bezerros bubalinos diarreicos e 50 de bezerros bubalinos saudáveis. Os patovares de E. coli obtidos de fezes diarreicas foram ETEC (F5+) (2/84), NTEC (16/84), STEC (20/84), EPEC (3/84), EHEC (3/84), e EAEC (EAST-1+) (33/84). Os patovares isolados de fezes não diarreicas foram NTEC (21/50), STEC (17/50), EHEC (1/50) e EAEC (7/50). Cepas de E. coli positivas para EAST-1 (P = 0,008) e filogrupo C (P = 0,05) foram associadas com a presença de diarreia. A análise de filogrupos revelou que 58,95% dos isolados pertencem ao filogrupo B1, seguido por E (9,70%), B2 (5,90%), C (5,90%), D (5,22%), A (2,24%) e F (1,50%). O filogrupo B1 predomina em cepas de E. coli patogênicas isoladas de bezerros búfalos e o filogrupo C constitui um filogrupo de E. coli patogênica entérica para bezerros.

[American tegumentary leishmaniasis: a multivariate analysis of the spatial circuits for production of cases in Minas Gerais State, Brazil, 2007 to 2011]. / Ocorrência de casos de leishmaniose tegumentar americana: uma análise multivariada dos circuitos espaciais de produção, Minas Gerais, Brasil, 2007 a 2011.

The aim of this study was to explain the association between social-environmental factors and major land uses and the occurrence of cases of American tegumentary leishmaniasis (ATL) in the spatial circuits of production in Minas Gerais State, Brazil. This was an analytical-type ecological study based on secondary data on ATL divided by three-year period from 2007 to 2011, in which the analytical units were municipalities belonging to the spatial circuits. Two distinct stages were performed. The first was the elaboration of thematic maps with identification of the circuits. In the second, a new indicator, ATL cases by population density, was associated with social-environmental indicators and major land uses, submitted to multivariate principal components analysis (PCA). During the periods studied, three circuits were identified, distributed in the major regions of Northern Minas Gerais, Rio Doce Valley, and Greater Metropolitan Belo Horizonte. There was a strong association between ATL by population density and temporary crops, natural pasture, natural forest, unusable lands, and rural population, and a weak association with planted pasture. The association of cases with the major land uses variable in different agricultural profiles shows the occupational nature of ATL, associated mainly with rural workers. The association of the disease with environmental variables and deficient basic sanitation also proved relevant in the transmission profile in spatial circuits of production in Minas Gerais.

O objetivo deste estudo foi explicar a associação dos fatores socioambientais e dos grandes usos da terra com a ocorrência de casos de leishmaniose tegumentar americana (LTA) nos circuitos espaciais de produção, no Estado de Minas Gerais, Brasil. Trata-se de um estudo ecológico do tipo analítico, baseado em dados secundários de casos de LTA dividido por triênio, no período entre 2007 a 2011, cujas unidades de análise foram os municípios pertencentes aos circuitos espaciais. Duas etapas distintas foram realizadas, sendo a elaboração de mapas temáticos com a identificação dos circuitos a primeira, e na segunda etapa um novo indicador casos de LTA por densidade demográfica foi associado com indicadores socioambientais e dos grandes usos da terra submetidos à análise multivariada de componentes principais (ACP). Para o período avaliado, identificou-se três circuitos distribuídos nas mesorregiões Norte de Minas Gerais, Vale do Rio Doce e Região Metropolitana de Belo Horizonte. Houve forte associação dos casos de LTA por densidade demográfica com lavoura temporária, pastagem natural, floresta natural, terras inaproveitáveis e população rural, e uma fraca associação com pastagem plantada. A associação de casos com variáveis dos grandes usos da terra em diferentes perfis agropecuários demonstra o caráter ocupacional da LTA, associado principalmente com trabalhadores da zona rural. A associação da doença com as variáveis ambientais e deficiência das condições de saneamento básico também demonstram relevância no perfil de transmissão nos circuitos espaciais de produção em Minas Gerais.

El objetivo de este estudio fue explicar la asociación de los factores socioambientales y explotación a gran escala de la tierra, con la ocurrencia de casos de leishmaniasis tegumentaria americana (LTA) en los circuitos espaciales de producción, en el Estado de Minas Gerais, Brasil. Se trata de un estudio ecológico de tipo analítico, basado en datos secundarios de casos de LTA, dividido por trienios, en el período entre 2007 a 2011, cuyas unidades de análisis fueron los municipios pertenecientes a los circuitos espaciales. Se realizaron dos etapas distintas, consistiendo la primera en la elaboración de mapas temáticos con la identificación de los circuitos, y la segunda etapa en un nuevo indicador de casos de LTA por densidad demográfica, que se asoció con indicadores socioambientales y a dos explotaciones a gran escala de la tierra, sometidos a un análisis multivariado de componentes principales (ACP). Para el período evaluado, se identificaron tres circuitos distribuidos en las mesorregiones del norte de Minas Gerais, Vale do Rio Doce y región metropolitana de Belo Horizonte. Hubo una fuerte asociación de los casos de LTA por densidad demográfica con el trabajo temporal, pasto natural, bosque natural, tierras inaprovechables y población rural, y una escasa asociación con pasto plantado. La asociación de casos con variables de las explotaciones a gran escala de la tierra, con diferentes perfiles agropecuarios, demuestra el carácter ocupacional de la LTA, asociado principalmente a trabajadores de la zona rural. La asociación de la enfermedad con variables ambientales y deficiencia en las condiciones de saneamiento básico, también demuestran relevancia en el perfil de transmisión en los circuitos espaciales de producción en Minas Gerais.

Ocorrência de casos de leishmaniose tegumentar americana: uma análise multivariada dos circuitos espaciais de produção, Minas Gerais, Brasil, 2007 a 2011 / American tegumentary leishmaniasis: a multivariate analysis of the spatial circuits for production of cases in Minas Gerais State, Brazil, 2007 to 2011 / Ocurrencia de casos de leishmaniasis tegumentaria americana: un análisis multivariado de los circuitos espaciales de producción, Minas Gerais, Brasil, 2007 a 2011

O objetivo deste estudo foi explicar a associação dos fatores socioambientais e dos grandes usos da terra com a ocorrência de casos de leishmaniose tegumentar americana (LTA) nos circuitos espaciais de produção, no Estado de Minas Gerais, Brasil. Trata-se de um estudo ecológico do tipo analítico, baseado em dados secundários de casos de LTA dividido por triênio, no período entre 2007 a 2011, cujas unidades de análise foram os municípios pertencentes aos circuitos espaciais. Duas etapas distintas foram realizadas, sendo a elaboração de mapas temáticos com a identificação dos circuitos a primeira, e na segunda etapa um novo indicador casos de LTA por densidade demográfica foi associado com indicadores socioambientais e dos grandes usos da terra submetidos à análise multivariada de componentes principais (ACP). Para o período avaliado, identificou-se três circuitos distribuídos nas mesorregiões Norte de Minas Gerais, Vale do Rio Doce e Região Metropolitana de Belo Horizonte. Houve forte associação dos casos de LTA por densidade demográfica com lavoura temporária, pastagem natural, floresta natural, terras inaproveitáveis e população rural, e uma fraca associação com pastagem plantada. A associação de casos com variáveis dos grandes usos da terra em diferentes perfis agropecuários demonstra o caráter ocupacional da LTA, associado principalmente com trabalhadores da zona rural. A associação da doença com as variáveis ambientais e deficiência das condições de saneamento básico também demonstram relevância no perfil de transmissão nos circuitos espaciais de produção em Minas Gerais.

The aim of this study was to explain the association between social-environmental factors and major land uses and the occurrence of cases of American tegumentary leishmaniasis (ATL) in the spatial circuits of production in Minas Gerais State, Brazil. This was an analytical-type ecological study based on secondary data on ATL divided by three-year period from 2007 to 2011, in which the analytical units were municipalities belonging to the spatial circuits. Two distinct stages were performed. The first was the elaboration of thematic maps with identification of the circuits. In the second, a new indicator, ATL cases by population density, was associated with social-environmental indicators and major land uses, submitted to multivariate principal components analysis (PCA). During the periods studied, three circuits were identified, distributed in the major regions of Northern Minas Gerais, Rio Doce Valley, and Greater Metropolitan Belo Horizonte. There was a strong association between ATL by population density and temporary crops, natural pasture, natural forest, unusable lands, and rural population, and a weak association with planted pasture. The association of cases with the major land uses variable in different agricultural profiles shows the occupational nature of ATL, associated mainly with rural workers. The association of the disease with environmental variables and deficient basic sanitation also proved relevant in the transmission profile in spatial circuits of production in Minas Gerais.

El objetivo de este estudio fue explicar la asociación de los factores socioambientales y explotación a gran escala de la tierra, con la ocurrencia de casos de leishmaniasis tegumentaria americana (LTA) en los circuitos espaciales de producción, en el Estado de Minas Gerais, Brasil. Se trata de un estudio ecológico de tipo analítico, basado en datos secundarios de casos de LTA, dividido por trienios, en el período entre 2007 a 2011, cuyas unidades de análisis fueron los municipios pertenecientes a los circuitos espaciales. Se realizaron dos etapas distintas, consistiendo la primera en la elaboración de mapas temáticos con la identificación de los circuitos, y la segunda etapa en un nuevo indicador de casos de LTA por densidad demográfica, que se asoció con indicadores socioambientales y a dos explotaciones a gran escala de la tierra, sometidos a un análisis multivariado de componentes principales (ACP). Para el período evaluado, se identificaron tres circuitos distribuidos en las mesorregiones del norte de Minas Gerais, Vale do Rio Doce y región metropolitana de Belo Horizonte. Hubo una fuerte asociación de los casos de LTA por densidad demográfica con el trabajo temporal, pasto natural, bosque natural, tierras inaprovechables y población rural, y una escasa asociación con pasto plantado. La asociación de casos con variables de las explotaciones a gran escala de la tierra, con diferentes perfiles agropecuarios, demuestra el carácter ocupacional de la LTA, asociado principalmente a trabajadores de la zona rural. La asociación de la enfermedad con variables ambientales y deficiencia en las condiciones de saneamiento básico, también demuestran relevancia en el perfil de transmisión en los circuitos espaciales de producción en Minas Gerais.

Blood and milk polymorphonuclear leukocyte and monocyte/macrophage functions in naturally caprine arthritis encephalitis virus infection in dairy goats.

The exact influence of caprine arthritis encephalitis virus (CAEV) infection on blood and milk polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNLs) and monocyte/macrophages of goats remains unclear. Thus, the present study sought to explore the blood and milk PMNL and monocyte/macrophage functions in naturally CAEV-infected goats. The present study used 18 healthy Saanen goats that were segregated according to sera test outcomes into serologically CAEV negative (n=8; 14 halves) and positive (n=10; 14 halves) groups. All milk samples from mammary halves with milk bacteriologically positive outcomes, somatic cell count ≥2×106cellsmL-1, and abnormal secretions in the strip cup test were excluded. We evaluated the percentage of blood and milk PMNLs and monocyte/macrophages, the viability of PMNLs and monocyte/macrophages, the levels of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the nonopsonized phagocytosis of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli by flow cytometry. In the present study, a higher percentage of milk macrophages (CD14+) and milk polymorphonuclear leukocytes undergoing late apoptosis or necrosis (Annexin-V+/Propidium iodide+) was observed in CAEV-infected goats; we did not find any further alterations in blood and milk PMNL and monocyte/macrophage functions. Thus, regarding our results, the goats naturally infected with CAEV did not reveal pronounced dysfunctions in blood and milk polymorphonuclear leukocytes and monocytes/macrophages.

Comparison of McMaster and Mini-FLOTAC fecal egg counting techniques in cattle and horses.

The aim of this study was to compare two fecal egg count (FEC) techniques; McMaster (McM) and Mini-FLOTAC (mF), for the detection of cattle and horse gastrointestinal nematode eggs, in different locations. Experiment 1: feces were collected from 16 cattle and FEC was performed individually, using mF with the sensitivity of 5 eggs per gram of feces (EPG) and McM with a sensitivity of 50 EPG at Empresa de Pesquisa Agropecuária de Minas Gerais - EPAMIG and the Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases of the University of Parana - LDP/UFPR. Experiment 2: Fecal samples from 30 horses were analyzed with mF (sensitivity of 5 EPG) and McM (sensitivity of 25 EPG) at the University of Mato Grosso do Sul - UFMS and LPD/UFPR. Experiment 3: feces were collected from 14 foals and FEC was performed using mF (sensitivity of 5 EPG); and McM (sensitivity of 25 EPG) only at the LPD/UFPR. For cattle, the average FEC of mF was 962 at LPD; and 1248 at EPAMIG; for McM it was 1393 at LPD and 1563 at EPAMIG. For horses, the FEC average using the mF was 650 at LPD and 469 at UFMS; and for McM it was 677 at LPD and 554 at UFMS. For foals, the average FEC for mF was 404 and 436 for McM. In all experiments, the standard deviation and the coefficient of variation values were significantly lower for mF. Therefore, it is recommended the use of the Mini-FLOTAC technique, which is a method with less variability and higher accuracy, particularly for animals with low FEC.

Characterization of virulence factors and phylogenetic group determination of Escherichia coli isolated from diarrheic and non-diarrheic calves from Brazil.

This study aimed to detect virulence factors, pathovars, and phylogenetic groups of Escherichia coli strains obtained from feces of calves with and without diarrhea up to 70 days old and to determine the association between occurrence of diarrhea, phylogenetic groups, and pathovars. Phylo-typing analysis of the 336 E. coli strains isolated from calves with Clermont method showed that 21 (6.25 %) belong to phylogroup A, 228 (67.85 %) to phylogroup B1, 2 (0.6 %) to phylogroup B2, 5 (1.49 %) to phylogroup C, 57 (16.96 %) to phylogroup E, and 3 (0.9 %) to phylogroup F. Phylogroup D was not identified and 20 strains (5.95 %) were assigned as "unknown." The distribution of phylogenetic groups among pathovars showed that NTEC belong to phylogroups B1 (17) and C (4); EPEC to phylogroups B1 (6) and E (8); STEC to phylogroups A (5), B1 (56), B2 (2), C (1), and E (15); EHEC to phylogroups B1 (95) and E (5); and ETEC to phylogroups A (3), B1 (7), and E (10). The EAST-1 strains were phylogroups A (13), B1 (47), E (19), and F (3); E. coli strains of "unknown" phylogroups belonged to pathovars EPEC (1), EHEC (2), STEC (7), and EAST-1 strains (6). ETEC was associated with diarrhea (P = 0.002). Our study did not find association between the phylogenetic background and occurrence of diarrhea (P = 0.164) but did find some relationship in phylogenetic group and pathovar. The study showed that EHEC and STEC are classified as phylogroup B1, EAST-1 phylogroup A, ETEC, and EPEC phylogroup E.

Epidemiological characterization and risk evaluation associated with the presence of Megninia spp. in posture farms / Caracterização epidemiológica e avaliação de risco associados à presença de Megninia spp. em granjas de postura

ABSTRACT: This study was accomplished with the aim to evaluate and to characterize the risks for the presence of Megninia spp. in poultry farms from Minas Gerais, using for that Correspondence Analysis (CA). A secondary database was used and adapted for this study, with information from 402 chicken houses of 42 laying hens commercial properties. Variables used to compose the correspondence model were selected through tests of Qui-square being considered the significant result of P≤0,05. A risk index was built to the presence of Megninia spp. starting from variables considered as risk factors for the presence of those ectoparasites. The CA graph produced for the epidemiological characterization of the presence of Megninia spp. presented an accumulated qui-square value of 58,55%. There was an association of the risk index with the age ranges of the poultry, among the presence Megninia spp. and the use of mineral oil and acaricide in the ration and; finally, an association between the ruddy ground-dove (Columbina talpacoti) presence and the absence of mites of the Megninia genus. The results supply knowledge on the epidemiology of Megninia spp. In addition, these information can contribute in the decision, reducing the risks of possible infestations in poultry farms and the negative effects of that parasitism.

RESUMO: Este estudo foi realizado com o objetivo de avaliar e caracterizar os riscos para a presença de Megninia spp. em galpões de granjas de postura de Minas Gerais, utilizando para isso Análise de Correspondência (AC). Foi utilizado um banco de dados secundário e adaptado para este estudo, com informações de 402 galpões de 42 propriedades comerciais de galinhas poedeiras. As variáveis utilizadas para compor o modelo de correspondência foram selecionadas através de testes de Qui-quadrado (P≤0,05). Foi construído um índice de risco para a presença de Megninia spp. a partir de variáveis consideradas como fatores de risco para a presença desses ectoparasitos. O gráfico da AC produzido para a caracterização epidemiológica da presença de Megninia spp. apresentou um valor de qui-quadrado acumulado de 58,55%. Observa-se que houve uma associação do índice de risco com a faixa de idades das aves, entre a presença Megninia spp. e a utilização de óleo mineral e de acaricida na ração e, por último, uma associação entre a presença de rolinhas (Columbina talpacoti) e a ausência de ácaros do gênero Megninia. Estes resultados fornecem conhecimento sobre a epidemiologia de Megninia spp. Além disso, estas informações poderão contribuir na tomada de decisão diminuindo os riscos de possíveis infestações nos plantéis e dos efeitos negativos decorrentes por esse parasitismo.

Serologic and molecular evidence of Brucella ovis infection in ovine and caprine flocks in the State of Minas Gerais, Brazil.

BACKGROUND: Brucella ovis infection is one of the leading causes of sub fertility and infertility in ovine, been characterized mainly by epididymitis, orchitis and testicular atrophy in rams. This study aimed to determine the frequency of B. ovis positivity in rams and goats flocks in the State of Minas Gerais, Brazil, by agarose gel immunodiffusion (AGID), ELISA, Rose Bengal, PCR and bacteriological isolation as diagnostic tools. FINDINGS: Serum and urine samples were collected from properties with sheep or goat flocks, or from properties with mixed flock. Out of 50 sheep flocks, 6% (3/50) were seropositive by AGID while 4% (2/50) were positive by urine PCR for B. ovis. Out of five goat farms, 20% (1/5) were seropositive for B. ovis by AGID. Mixed flock farms had 11.1% (2/18) of positivity by AGID. By ELISA, 19.5% (8/41) of sheep properties and 61.1% (11/18) of the properties with mixed flocks were positive for B. ovis. No samples were positive in the test of Rose Bengal, ruling out exposure to smooth LPS Brucella species (particularly Brucella melitensis) and indicating that the positive in the ELISA was associated with Brucella spp. LPS rough (presumably B. ovis). No urine sample from sheep or goat was positive by bacteriological isolation. CONCLUSIONS: Our results demonstrate serologic or molecular evidence of B. ovis infection in several rams and billy goats from meso-regions of the State of Minas Gerais, Brazil. Also, this study report the indirect ELISA as an important tool for the diagnosis of B. ovis infection, as indirect ELISA in this study demonstrated to be the most sensitive diagnostic method adopted.

Phylogenetic Group Determination of Escherichia coli Isolated from Animals Samples.

This study analyzes the occurrence and distribution of phylogenetic groups of 391 strains of Escherichia coli isolated from poultry, cattle, and water buffalo. The frequency of the phylogroups was A = 19%, B1 = 57%, B2 = 2.3%, C = 4.6%, D = 2.8%, E = 11%, and F = 3.3%. Phylogroups A (P < 0.001) and F (P = 0.018) were associated with E. coli strains isolated from poultry, phylogroups B1 (P < 0.001) and E (P = 0.002) were associated with E. coli isolated from cattle, and phylogroups B2 (P = 0.003) and D (P = 0.017) were associated with E. coli isolated from water buffalo. This report demonstrated that some phylogroups are associated with the host analyzed and the results provide knowledge of the phylogenetic composition of E. coli from domestic animals.

Brucellosis in working equines of cattle farms from Minas Gerais State, Brazil.

The present survey aimed at estimating the seroprevalence of brucellosis in working equines of cattle farms from Minas Gerais State, Brazil, and investigating risk factors associated with the infection. Serum samples from 6439 animals, including 5292 horses, 1037 mules and 110 donkeys, were collected from 1936 herds, between September 2003 and March 2004, in 848 municipalities from the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. The prevalence of antibodies against smooth Brucella spp. found in equines from Minas Gerais State was 1.37% (95% CI: 0.97-1.78), resulting in a prevalence of herds with infected animals of 4.28% (95% CI: 4.21-4.36). There were differences between regions but these were not of major epidemiological relevance nor were most of them statistically significant, given the considerable overlap of confidence intervals. Nevertheless, the point estimates suggest that the three northeastern regions have slightly higher prevalence than the rest of the state, both at the herd and animal levels. No association of Brucella spp. seropositivity with sex, age or host was observed. In conclusion, the present study showed a low but widespread prevalence of antibodies against smooth Brucella in equines kept in cattle farms in Minas Gerais, a state where bovine brucellosis is also widespread albeit with low prevalence.

Effects of bovine leukemia virus infection on milk neutrophil function and the milk lymphocyte profile.

The effects of bovine leukemia virus (BLV) on the immune response have been extensively investigated; however, its effects on mammary gland immunity are only speculative. Although BLV has a tropism for B cells, it can affect both adaptive and innate immunities because these systems share many effector mechanisms. This scenario is the basis of this investigation of the effects of BLV on mammary gland immunity, which is largely dependent upon neutrophilic functions. Thus, the present study sought to examine neutrophilic functions and the lymphocyte profile in the milk of naturally BLV-infected cows. The viability of the milk neutrophils and the percentage of milk neutrophils that produced reactive oxygen species (ROS) or phagocytosed Staphylococcus aureus were similar between BLV-infected and BLV-uninfected dairy cows. Furthermore, the expression of CD62L and CD11b by the milk neutrophils and the percentage of milk neutrophils (CH138+ cells) that were obtained from the udder quarters of the BLV-infected cows were not altered. Conversely, the median fluorescence intensity (MFI) representing intracellular ROS production and the phagocytosis of S. aureus, the expression of CD44 by the milk neutrophils and the percentage of apoptotic B cells were lower in the milk cells from BLV-infected dairy cows, particularly those from animals with persistent lymphocytosis (PL). The lymphocyte subsets were not different among the groups, with the exception of the percentage of CD5-/CD11b- B cells, which was higher in the milk cells from BLV-infected cows, particularly those with PL. Thus, the present study provides novel insight into the implications of BLV infection for mammary gland immunity.

Longitudinal study of Salmonella spp., diarrheagenic Escherichia coli, Rotavirus, and Coronavirus isolated from healthy and diarrheic calves in a Brazilian dairy herd.

This prospective longitudinal study investigated the epidemiology of enteric disease associated with infections in calves aging up to 70 days. A total of 850 fecal samples were collected from 67 calves. Seventeen isolates of Salmonella spp. were recovered from feces of 11 calves (16.4%), and statistical analysis revealed no association between the presence of Salmonella spp. and clinical signs of diarrhea or age. Virulence factors of Escherichia coli were identified in 103 strains: eae (7), K99/STa (7), Stx1 (7), Stx1/eae (36), Stx1/Stx2/eae (2), Stx2 (43), and Stx2/eae (1). There was statistical association between diarrheic animals carrying E. coli Stx1/eae (+) in their feces at 2 and 4 weeks of age (P = 0.003) and E. coli Stx2 (+) at 5 weeks of age (P = 0.03). Rotavirus was detected in 49 (5.76%) fecal samples collected from 33 calves (49.2%). The presence of rotavirus was correlated with diarrheic feces (P < 0.0001) rather than feces with normal consistency. There was a significant relationship between age group and diarrhea (P = 0.001). Bovine coronavirus (BCoV) was detected in 93 fecal samples collected from 46 calves (68.6%). There was an association (P < 0.0001) between diarrheic animals positive for BCoV and age groups. The results demonstrate the importance of the pathogens studied in the etiology of diarrhea in calves.