Spread analysis of glanders in the state of Piauí, northeastern Brazil.

Brazil is strategic in controlling neglected zoonoses, such as glanders, in its territory. Among the Brazilian states, Piauí is a strategic state for the spread of the disease in the country. The present study aimed to evaluate the spatial and temporal distribution of official cases of glanders in Piauí between 2015 and 2022. The glanders cases were located in the municipalities of the north and central-north mesoregions, mainly in Campo Maior, Teresina and Altos. The highest incidence risk (IR) occurred in of Altos (IR = 257.9), Sussuapara (IR = 158.4), and Teresina (IR = 157.7). A primary cluster was formed with a relative risk of 14.88 between 2019 and 2022, encompassing 34 municipalities in the north and central-north regions. In Piauí, glanders is well localized, with the potential for spread across borders. This is the first study demonstrating the distribution of reported cases of glanders in the state of Piauí.

Identification of Anaplasma marginale, Babesia bovis and Babesia bigemina resistance alleles in Crioulo Lageano cattle using PCR-SBT and BoLA-DRB3 gene sequencing.

Introduction: The BoLA-DRB3 gene in cattle is associated with tolerance to several infectious diseases, such as neosporosis, dermatophilosis, leukosis, and mastitis. Methods: This study used PCR-SBT and BoLA-DRB3 gene sequencing to determine the association between the presence or absence of Anaplasma marginale, Babesia bovis, and Babesia bigemina infections in 208 Crioulo Lageano cattle and alleles present in the population. The chi-square test and odds ratio analysis were employed to establish the association. Results: Of the BoLA-DRB3 gene alleles present in the population, two alleles were significantly associated with resistance to A. marginale infections: BoLA-DRB3001:01 (p < 0.001; OR = 0.224), which had a frequency of 7.93%, and BoLA-DRB3024:06 (p = 0.007; OR < 0.00001), which had a frequency of 0.72%. Regarding B. bovis infection, the BoLA-DRB3*011:01 allele (p = 0.002; OR = 0.271) had a frequency of 6% in the population and was associated with resistance to the infection. None of the alleles was associated with resistance to infection by B. bigemina. Discussion: The Crioulo Lageano breed has alleles that may confer resistance against infection by A. marginale and B. bovis.

Prevalence of natural infection by Trypanosoma evansi in Crioula LAGEANA cattle.

Cattle trypanosomiasis negatively impacts animal husbandry due to high morbidity, productivity losses, and mortality rates. Knowledge regarding Trypanosoma evansi infections in locally adapted breeds remains limited. Some cattle breeds exhibit trypanotolerance, requiring the determination of prevalence, as well as related tolerance and resistance characteristics, for disease control programs. This study aimed to determine T. evansi prevalence in Crioula Lageana cattle and associate clinical, hematological, and biochemical aspects with the infection to further research on tolerance in this population. Blood samples from 310 Crioula Lageana cattle were tested using Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and Indirect Immunofluorescence Reaction (IIFR). T. evansi prevalence was 8% (24/310) using PCR and 4% (11/310) using IIFR. Positive animals showed increased ruminal movements, elevated eosinophil counts, and reduced monocyte numbers, but both latter within the reference range for the species. Albumin concentrations were low in positive cases and remained below the reference range limit for both groups. However, triglycerides exceeded the physiological range for the species in both positive and negative groups. Increased gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT) activity was observed in positive animals. In conclusion, Crioula Lageana cattle exhibited enzootic instability with a low T. evansi infection prevalence when assessed using PCR and IIFR techniques. Furthermore, the animals did not display clinical, hematological, or biochemical alterations attributable to the presence of hemoparasites.

Ultrasound Morphometry and Mean Echogenicity of Digital Flexor Tendons, Suspensory Ligament, and Accessory Ligament of Digital Deep Flexor Tendon in Gaited Horses.

The objective of this study was to evaluate and compare the sonographic characteristics of the digital flexor tendons and ligaments of the palmar/plantar of the metacarpal and metatarsal regions in gaited horses, as well as to establish normal reference ultrasound values for Mangalarga Marchador (MM) and Campeiro breeds. Transverse sonographic images were obtained of 50 adult and healthy horses from the MM (n = 25) and Campeiro (n = 25) breeds. The images were taken in six metacarpal/metatarsal zones, and the following measurements were taken: transverse area, circumference, dorsopalmar/plantar length, lateromedial length, and mean echogenicity. Differences were observed between breeds in the fore- and hindlimbs, and, even when not significant, the Campeiro breed tended to have higher values for most variables and structures. Variations between zones and between structures in the same zone followed a similar trend in both breeds for all variables. In addition, the dimensions and variations between zones and structures were different between the fore- and hindlimbs, highlighting the need for specific values for the digital flexor tendons and ligaments of the metatarsal plantar region. In conclusion, the digital flexor tendons, suspensory ligaments, and accessory ligaments of the digital deep flexor tendon are influenced by the breed factor in gaited horses, and they are different between the fore- and hindlimbs.

Prevalence and risk factors associated with Babesia bovis infection in Crioula Lageana cattle.

INTRODUCTION: Bovine babesiosis caused by the protozoan Babesia bovis is a worldwide disease and causes great economic damage to livestock. There are no studies on the epidemiology of this disease in native breeds such as Crioula Lageana cattle raised in the South of Brazil. METHODOLOGY: DNA samples from 311 animals were amplified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for the identification of the gene rap-1 (Rhoptry Associated Protein 1) from B. bovis. An epidemiological questionnaire was used to determine the risk factors associated with infection. RESULTS: The prevalence of B. bovis infection was 72% (224/311). Age and tick infestation affected infection. The factors associated with infection were the breeding objective (p = 0.042; CI = 0.746-0.995; OR = 0.861), contact of cattle with other animal species (p = 0.002; CI = 0.517-0.860; OR = 0.484), absence of tick control (p = < 0.001; CI = 0.074-0.480; OR = 0.188) and timing of tick treatment (p = 0.026; CI = 0.673-0.975; OR = 0.810), and these were considered to be factors that can protect against the disease. CONCLUSIONS: The Crioula Lageana cattle breed has near enzootic stability with regards to B. bovis infection.

The influence of the metacarpophalangeal joint angle on the transversal area and mean echogenicity of the superficial digital flexor tendon and suspensory ligament in gaited horses.

The objective of this study was to assess the influence of the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint angle on the transversal area (TA) and mean echogenicity (ME) of the superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) and suspensory ligament (SL) in gaited horses. Ultrasound images were obtained from 50 healthy adult horses of the Mangalarga Marchador (MM; n=25) and Campeiro (n=25) breeds. Static and dynamic angles of the MCP joint were measured from photographs and video recordings. Higher ME values were evinced for the SL only in the group with the smaller dynamic angles of the MCP joint in the MM horses, in addition to weak negative correlation between the dynamic angle and ME. Moreover, weak negative correlation was also observed between the static angle and TA of the lateral branch of the SL and between the static angle and the ME of the SDFT. However, the difference observed in the group of MM horses, as well as the weak correlation, was not considered sufficient to support the hypothesis that a smaller angle of the MCP joint (greater extension) is associated with larger TA and ME values for the structures. The results also suggest that the static and dynamic angles of the MCP joint do not influence the TA and ME values of the SDFT and SL in gaited horses.

High prevalence of Anaplasma marginale in the Crioula Lageana cattle.

INTRODUCTION: Bovine anaplasmosis is caused by the bacterium Anaplasma marginale; its transmission occurs through vectors such as ticks. Crioula Lageana is a native cattle breed from the South of Brazil used for beef production, with excellent meat quality. There are no studies of the epidemiology of this disease in Crioula Lageana even though tick damage is known to be frequent. METHODOLOGY: Blood samples were collected from 311 Crioula Lageana cattle and subjected to DNA extraction and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using specific primers for the Major Surface Protein 5 (msp5) gene for the detection of the bovine anaplasmosis agent. The animals were classified according to the gender, the category and the presence or absence of ticks at the time of collection. The animal owners completed an epidemiological questionnaire to determine factors that might be associated with anaplasma infection. RESULTS: The prevalence of A. marginale was 79.9%. The following factors were found to be protective against infection: I) the breeding objectives (whether animals were destined for beef production and trade or solely for beef production), II) tick control rate; and III) pregnant and lactating cows and calves as the categories least affected by the hemoparasite. The main risk factor for hemoparasite acquisition was the use of organophosphates and avermectins as acaricides. CONCLUSIONS: Crioula Lageana cattle are in a situation of enzootic stability, with a high prevalence of A. marginale infection. The factors associated with the infection were: I) breeding objectives, II) tick control rate, III) the acaricides used, and IV) the most tick-parasitized categories of cattle.

Differences in mineral concentrations on hooves of horses, mules and donkeys / Diferenças nas concentrações de minerais nos cascos deequinos, muares e asininos

This study aimed to measure the concentrations of minerals in different regions and pigmentation of horses’ hooves, mules and donkeys. A total of 20 Crioulo horses, 20 mules and 20 Pega donkeys were used. They formed two groups: pigmented (dark) or non-pigmented (bright) hooves. All animals were unshod and with adequate foot conformation. Females were nonpregnant and without foal and no animals were in training. Samples were collected from the hooves of all limbs in the regions of wall, sole and frog. The concentrations of calcium, magnesium, copper, iron and zinc were determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry; sodium and potassium concentrations were determined by atomic emission spectrophotometry. Among the groups it was observed that the wall, sole and frog of donkeys’ hooves presented higher concentrations of sodium and calcium and with the exception of the frog that also obtained higher levels of copper in this species. Mules had lower concentrations of zinc in the wall and the horses had higher concentrations of potassium and zinc in the sole and higher magnesium in the frog and wall. There was no difference (P>0.05) in concentrations regarding the pigmentation of the hooves. The different regions of the hooves in each group presented similar concentrations of minerals and it was regardless of the pigmentation. The mineral concentrations may be related to desirable functional properties of the donkeys’ hooves. Pigmented and non-pigmented hooves have similar concentrations of minerals.

O objetivo desse trabalho foi mensurar os teores de minerais nas diferentes regiões e pigmentações dos cascos de equinos, muares e asininos. Utilizaram-se 20 equinos da raça Crioula, 20 muares e 20 asininos da raça Pêga. Formaram-se dois grupos conforme os cascos pigmentados (escuros) e não pigmentados (claros). Todos os animais estavam desferrados e com adequada conformação podal e as fêmeas estavam não gestantes e sem potro ao pé e nenhum animal estava em treinamento. Amostras foram coletadas dos cascos de todos os membros nas regiões de parede, sola e ranilha. As concentrações de cálcio, magnésio, cobre, ferro e zinco foram determinadas por espectrofotometria de absorção atômica e as concentrações de sódio e potássio foram determinadas por espectrofotometria de emissão atômica. Entre os grupos observou-se que a parede, sola e ranilha nos asininos apresentaram maiores valores de sódio e cálcio e, exceto para a ranilha, também obteve-se maiores teores de cobre nesta espécie. Os muares apresentaram menores teores de zinco na parede e, os equinos, maiores teores de potássio e zinco na sola e ranilha e de magnésio na ranilha e parede. Não houve diferença (P>0,05) nos teores dos minerais quanto à pigmentação dos cascos. As diferentes regiões dos cascos em cada grupo apresentaram teores similares de minerais e este independeu da pigmentação. As variações dos teores de minerais entre os grupos podem estar relacionados a propriedades funcionais desejáveis dos cascos dos asininos. Cascos pigmentados e não pigmentados apresentam teores similares dos minerais.

Differences in mineral concentrations on hooves of horses, mules and donkeys / Diferenças nas concentrações de minerais nos cascos de equinos, muares e asininos

This study aimed to measure the concentrations of minerals in different regions and pigmentation of horses' hooves, mules and donkeys. A total of 20 Crioulo horses, 20 mules and 20 Pega donkeys were used. They formed two groups: pigmented (dark) or non-pigmented (bright) hooves. All animals were unshod and with adequate foot conformation. Females were non-pregnant and without foal and no animals were in training. Samples were collected from the hooves of all limbs in the regions of wall, sole and frog. The concentrations of calcium, magnesium, copper, iron and zinc were determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry; sodium and potassium concentrations were determined by atomic emission spectrophotometry. Among the groups it was observed that the wall, sole and frog of donkeys' hooves presented higher concentrations of sodium and calcium and with the exception of the frog that also obtained higher levels of copper in this species. Mules had lower concentrations of zinc in the wall and the horses had higher concentrations of potassium and zinc in the sole and higher magnesium in the frog and wall. There was no difference (P>0.05) in concentrations regarding the pigmentation of the hooves. The different regions of the hooves in each group presented similar concentrations of minerals and it was regardless of the pigmentation. The mineral concentrations may be related to desirable functional properties of the donkeys' hooves. Pigmented and non-pigmented hooves have similar concentrations of minerals.

O objetivo desse trabalho foi mensurar os teores de minerais nas diferentes regiões e pigmentações dos cascos de equinos, muares e asininos. Utilizaram-se 20 equinos da raça Crioula, 20 muares e 20 asininos da raça Pêga. Formaram-se dois grupos conforme os cascos pigmentados (escuros) e não pigmentados (claros). Todos os animais estavam desferrados e com adequada conformação podal e as fêmeas estavam não gestantes e sem potro ao pé e nenhum animal estava em treinamento. Amostras foram coletadas dos cascos de todos os membros nas regiões de parede, sola e ranilha. As concentrações de cálcio, magnésio, cobre, ferro e zinco foram determinadas por espectrofotometria de absorção atômica e as concentrações de sódio e potássio foram determinadas por espectrofotometria de emissão atômica. Entre os grupos observou-se que a parede, sola e ranilha nos asininos apresentaram maiores valores de sódio e cálcio e, exceto para a ranilha, também obteve-se maiores teores de cobre nesta espécie. Os muares apresentaram menores teores de zinco na parede e, os equinos, maiores teores de potássio e zinco na sola e ranilha e de magnésio na ranilha e parede. Não houve diferença (P>0,05) nos teores dos minerais quanto à pigmentação dos cascos. As diferentes regiões dos cascos em cada grupo apresentaram teores similares de minerais e este independeu da pigmentação. As variações dos teores de minerais entre os grupos podem estar relacionados a propriedades funcionais desejáveis dos cascos dos asininos. Cascos pigmentados e não pigmentados apresentam teores similares dos minerais.

Hematological profile, total plasma protein and fibrinogen concentrations of clinically healthy adult Campeiro horses / Perfil hematológico, concentração de proteínas totais e fibrinogênio plasmático de equinos adultos e clinicamente sadios da raça Campeiro

ABSTRACT: This research was performed by a multidisciplinary and interagency team and sought to determine the blood profile, total plasma protein and fibrinogen concentrations of clinically healthy adult Campeiro horses. A total of 138 horses (14 stallions, 74 non-pregnant and 50 pregnant mares) over three years of age from breeders located in the states of Santa Catarina and Rio Grande do Sul were divided into groups according to age, sex and pregnancy status. Statistical analysis of the data was performed using the ANOVA test, Student's T test, and descriptive analyses (P<0.05). There was a significant difference (P<0.05) in the values for MCV, MCH, and total number of eosinophiles when comparing different age groups. There was also a notable difference (P<0.05) in the total plasma protein and total number of eosinophile variables when comparing pregnant females to non-pregnant females. These results show that the Campeiro breed presents certain peculiarities regarding variables in the complete blood count, total plasma protein and fibrinogen compared to the values described by other authors for other breeds. Thus, it is suggested that the values established in this study should be used as benchmarks for interpreting erythrocyte and leukocyte counts when evaluating these variables in Campeiro horses.

RESUMO: O presente trabalho foi executado por uma equipe multidisciplinar e interinstitucional, objetivando determinar o perfil hematológico, a concentração de proteínas totais e o fibrinogênio plasmático de equinos adultos e clinicamente sadios da raça Campeiro. Foram utilizados 138 animais (14 machos inteiros, 74 fêmeas vazias e 50 prenhes), com idades acima de três anos, provenientes de criatórios localizados em Santa Catarina e Rio Grande do Sul, divididos em grupos de acordo com a idade, sexo e estado gestacional. A análise estatística dos dados foi realizada por meio do teste ANOVA, teste t de Student e análise descritiva (P<0,05). Houve diferença significativa (P<0,05) para os valores do HCM, VCM e número total de eosinófilos, quando comparadas as diferentes faixas etárias. Também houve diferença (P<0,05) para as variáveis PTP e número total de eosinófilos, quando comparadas fêmeas prenhas e vazias. A partir desses resultados, pode-se concluir que os equinos Campeiros apresentam particularidades com relação às variáveis do hemograma, proteínas totais e fibrinogênio plasmático, quando comparados aos descritos por outros autores em outras raças. Sendo assim, sugere-se que os valores estabelecidos no presente estudo sejam tomados como valores de referência na interpretação do eritrograma e leucograma para a avaliação dessas variáveis em equinos da raça Campeiro.

Neospora spp. antibodies in horses from two geographical regions of the state of Santa Catarina, Brazil / Anticorpos contra Neospora spp. em equinos de duas regiões geográficas do Estado de Santa Catarina, Brasil

The aims of this study were to determine occurrences of Neospora spp. IgG antibodies in horses from two geographical regions of the state of Santa Catarina, southern Brazil, and identify risk factors for infection. Analyses were performed on 615 samples using the immunofluorescent antibody test (IFAT ≥ 1:50). Out of the 615 samples, 25 (4.1%) were positive for Neospora spp. The titers for Neospora spp. were distributed as follows: 1:50 (13), 1:100 (eight), 1:200 (three) and 1:400 (one). Out of the 311 samples taken in the mountain region, eight were positive (2.6%). Among the samples from the coastal region (304), 17 had Neospora spp. antibodies, thus indicating occurrence of 5.6%. Although no statistically significant difference was observed (P = 0.06704), the prevalence among animals of the coast was 2.2 times higher than that of the mountain region. Contact with dogs and/or cattle (P = 0.007596) were identified as risk factor for Neospora spp. infection.

O presente estudo objetivou determinar a ocorrência de anticorpos anti-Neospora spp. em equinos das regiões serrana e litorânea de Santa Catarina e identificar possíveis fatores de risco para a infecção. Foram analisadas 615 amostras por meio da reação de imunofluorescência indireta (RIFI ≥1:50). Das 615 amostras, 25 (4,1%) foram positivas para Neospora spp. A recíproca dos títulos de anticorpos anti-Neospora spp. nos equinos foi assim distribuída: 1:50 (13), 1:100 (oito), 1:200 (três) e 1:400 (um). Das 311 amostras da Serra Catarinense, oito foram positivas (2,6%). Das amostras da Região Litorânea (304), 17 apresentaram anticorpos anti-Neospora spp., indicando uma prevalência de 5,6%. Não foi observada diferença estatística significante (P=0,06704) entre as soroprevalências para Neospora spp. em equinos das diferentes regiões, porém os animais do litoral de Santa Catarina apresentaram prevalência 2,2 vezes maior que aqueles da região serrana. O contato dos equinos com cães e/ou bovinos (P=0,007596) foi identificado como fator de risco para infecção por Neospora spp.

Biometria do equilíbrio podal em equinos de tração pertencentes ao Programa de Extensão "Amigo do Carroceiro" do Centro de Ciências Agroveterinárias da Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina no município de Lages/SC, Brasil / Biometric of podal balance in draft horses to the Extension Program "Amigo do Carroceiro" do Centro de Ciências Agroveterinárias da Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina in Lages/SC, Brazil

Foram mensurados os cascos de 44 equinos cadastrados no Programa de Extensão "Amigo do Carroceiro" do Centro de Ciências Agroveterinárias da Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina (CAV-UDESC) que desempenham a função de tração no município de Lages, SC. Os parâmetros avaliados foram comprimento e largura da ranilha, altura dos talões lateral e medial, comprimentos e ângulo da pinça e largura e comprimento da sola. Foram identificadas as seguintes alterações: assimetria entre cascos contralaterais torácicos e pélvicos, ângulo da pinça agudo (49,1±5,1) para membros torácicos e (51,8±4,3) para membros pélvicos, diferença de angulações em 40,9% e 34,1% para cascos dos membros torácicos e pélvicos, respectivamente, contração da ranilha bilateral nos membros torácicos (100%), membros pélvicos direitos (70,5%) e nos esquerdos (66,0%). Desequilíbrio médio-lateral (4,6 a 6,8%) nos membros torácicos e (4,6 a 13,6%) nos membros pélvicos. Obtiveram-se correlações positivas (0,3 a 0,7) entre peso corporal, comprimento e largura da sola. Observaram-se diferenças entre os cascos de animais ferrados e desferrados, as quais foram atribuídas ao desgaste dos cascos desferrados. Também se observou negligência dos carroceiros quanto ao cuidado com os cascos e frequência de casqueamento e ferrageamento, os quais foram determinados através da alta porcentagem de animais com ferraduras perdidas.

The hooves of 44 horses registered in the Extension Program "Amigo do Carroceiro" do Centro de Ciências Agroveterinárias da Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina (CAV-UDESC) were measured. The horses perform the function of traction in Lages, SC. The parameters evaluated were the frog length and width, lateral and medial heel length, angle and toe length and sole length and width. The following differences were observed: asymmetry between contralateral hoof of hind and forelimbs, toe angle overly acute, differences between hind and forelimbs in 40.9% and 34.1% respectively, bilateral contraction of the frog in the forelimbs (100%), right hind limb (70.5%) and left hind limb (66.0%). Medial-lateral hoof imbalance in the forelimbs (4.6 to 6.8%) and hind limbs (4.6 to 13.6%). Positive correlations were obtained (0.3 to 0.7) between body weight, sole length and width. Differences were observed between the hooves shoes and unshod, which were assigned to wear unshod hooves. It was also observed negligence of the wagoner about hoof care and frequency of trimming and shoeing, which was revealed by the high percentage of animals with loss of horseshoes.

Neospora spp. antibodies in horses from two geographical regions of the state of Santa Catarina, Brazil.

The aims of this study were to determine occurrences of Neospora spp. IgG antibodies in horses from two geographical regions of the state of Santa Catarina, southern Brazil, and identify risk factors for infection. Analyses were performed on 615 samples using the immunofluorescent antibody test (IFAT ≥ 1:50). Out of the 615 samples, 25 (4.1%) were positive for Neospora spp. The titers for Neospora spp. were distributed as follows: 1:50 (13), 1:100 (eight), 1:200 (three) and 1:400 (one). Out of the 311 samples taken in the mountain region, eight were positive (2.6%). Among the samples from the coastal region (304), 17 had Neospora spp. antibodies, thus indicating occurrence of 5.6%. Although no statistically significant difference was observed (P = 0.06704), the prevalence among animals of the coast was 2.2 times higher than that of the mountain region. Contact with dogs and/or cattle (P = 0.007596) were identified as risk factor for Neospora spp. infection.

Efeito da idade e sexo sobre a concentração sérica de eritropoietina em equinos da raça Árabe / Effect of age and gender about the serum concentration of eritropoetin in Arabian horses

A EPO é um fator de crescimento glicoprotéico sintetizado pelas células adjacentes aos túbulos proximais renais regulada via mecanismo de "feed back" envolvendo a tensão de oxigênio tissular. Na baixa tensão de oxigênio arterial, a produção de EPO aumenta causando uma maior produção de eritrócitos na medula óssea. Devido ao pouco conhecimento da concentração de EPO sérica em equinos e a ausência de trabalhos sobre o efeito da idade e sexo sobre a sua concentração o trabalho teve como objetivo comparar a concentração sérica de eritropoietina em equinos da raça Árabe de sexos e idades diferentes. Foram utilizados 31 equinos da raça Árabe, com idades de seis a 12 meses (jovens) e acima de 24 meses (adultos), sendo 13 machos (seis jovens e sete adultos) e 18 fêmeas (oito jovens e 10 adultas), clinicamente sadios. As amostras de sangue foram colhidas por venipunção jugular e o soro armazenado até o momento do processamento. A concentração sérica de eritropoetina foi determinada pelo método de radioimunoensaio (RIA) utilizando kit comercial (EPO Trac TM125I RIA, Diagnostic Systems Laboratories, Webster, Texas, USA). Para análise estatística dos dados utilizou-se o Teste t de Student ao nível de 5% de significância (P<0,05). Não foram observadas diferenças significativas (P<0,05) quando se compararam os animais divididos entre sexos e as idades de seis a 12 meses (jovens) e acima de 24 meses (adultos). Conclui-se que a concentração de eritropoietina em equinos da raça Árabe independe do sexo e idade, e pode ser utilizada como valores de referência, porém ressalta-se a necessidade da obtenção de valores de referência para cada laboratório.(AU)

The erythropoietin (EPO) is a glicoproteic grow factor synthesized by the adjacent cells in the proximal renal tubes and controlled by feedback mechanism that involve the tension of tissular oxygen. In the presence of low tension of arterial oxygen, the production of EPO increases and it causes a major production of erythrocytes in the marrowbone. Due to poor knowledge of the serum concentration of erythropoietin in equines and the absence of information about the differences between age and gender, the aim of this study was to compare the serum concentration of erythropoietin in Arabian horses, clinically healthy with different age and gender. A total of 31 horses were used from 6 to 12 months old (young) and over 24 months old (adult), 13 males (six young and seven adult) and 18 females (eight young and ten adult) clinically healthy. Blood samples were collected from jugular vein using a vacuntainer with blood clot gel activator and the serum was separated by centrifugation and stored until the time of processing. The EPO serum concentration was measured by radioimmunoassay method (RIA) using a commercial kit (EPO Trac TM125I RIA, Diagnostic Systems Laboratories, Webster, Texas, USA). For statistical analysis of data were used the Student t test at 5% level of significance (P<0.05). It was not observed any statistic differences (P<0.05) between the sex and age of the animals from 6 to 12 months old and over of 24 months. We concluded that the concentration of the EPO in Arabian equines is independent of the sex and age, and can be used as reference values however it is very important and necessary to obtain references values for each laboratory.(AU)

Transfer of passive immunity and serum proteinogram in the first six months of life of Criollo Lageano and black and white holstein calves / Transferência de imunidade passiva e proteinograma sérico de bezerros das raças Crioula lageana e Holandesa preta e branca nos primeiros seis meses de vida

The objective of this study was to evaluate and compare the transfer of passive immunity and the proteinogram in Criollo Lageano (CL) and Black and White Holstein (BWH) calves. Two groups were utilized with 13 Criollo Lageano and 10 BWH calves. Blood samples were collected for the measurement of total serum protein, electrophoresis of serum proteins, activity of the gamma glutamyl transferase, and concentration of IgG by the method of the zinc sulfate turbidity in periods between 24 and 36 hours of life, 15, 30, 60, 90, 120, 150 and 180 days. Statistical analysis was performed by ANOVA and Tukey test at 5% significance level, and correlations between variables were calculated. Variations of serum proteins followed a pattern of physiological behavior over the first six months of life and production of immunoglobulins was active earlier in BWH calves and slower in the Criollo Lageano, without causing any impact on their health. Gamma globulin in the first days of life (24-36h) was correlated with IgG (r=0.87 for CL and r=0.89 for BWH), PTS (r=0.91 for CL and r=0.92 for BWH), Glob (r=0.99 for CL and r=0.98 for BWH) and GGT (r=0.14 for CL and r=0.83 for BWH). It was concluded that there was no failure in the transfer of passive immunity in Criollo Lageano calves but this failure occurred in the BWH calves. IgG values estimated by the zinc sulfate turbidity and serum proteins were considered good indicators of the transfer of passive immunity in calves between 24 and 36 hours of life.

O objetivo do presente trabalho foi verificar e comparar a transferência de imunidade passiva e o proteinograma em bezerros da raça Crioula Lageana (CL) e Holandesa Preta e Branca (HPB). Foram utilizados dois grupos sendo 13 bezerros da raça Crioula Lageana e 10 da raça HPB. Amostras de sangue foram colhidas para a mensuração da proteína sérica total, eletroforese das proteínas séricas, atividade da gama-glutamiltransferase e concentração de IgG pelo método de turvação pelo sulfato de zinco nos períodos entre 24 e 36 horas de vida, 15, 30, 60, 90, 120, 150 e 180 dias. A análise estatística foi realizada pelo teste de ANOVA e Tukey ao nível de 5% de significância, e correlações entre as variáveis. As variações das proteínas séricas obedeceram a um padrão de comportamento fisiológico ao longo dos seis primeiros meses de vida e a produção ativa de imunoglobulinas foi mais precoce nos bezerros da raça Holandesa e mais lenta nos da raça Crioula Lageana, sem provocar qualquer impacto sobre a saúde dos mesmos. A gamaglobulina no primeiro dia de vida (24-36h) correlacionou-se com a IgG (r=0,87 CL e r=0,89 HPB), PTS (r=0,91 CL e r=0,92 HPB), Glob (r=0,99 CL e r=0,98) e GGT (r=0,14 CL e r=0,83 HPB). Conclui-se que não houve falha na transferência de imunidade passiva nos bezerros da raça Crioula Lageana e falha na raça Holandesa Preta e Branca. Os valores de IgG estimados pelo método da turvação pelo sulfato de zinco e das proteínas séricas foram bons indicadores da transferência de imunidade passiva nos bezerros entre 24 e 36 horas de vida.

Eritrograma, metabolismo do ferro e concentração sérica de eritropoetina em fêmeas caprinas da raça Saanen nos períodos de gestação, parto e pós-parto / Erithrogram, iron metabolism and serum erythropoietin concentration in female Saanen caprine in the pregnancy, parturition and postpartum periods

As alterações hematológicas durante o período de gestação, parto e pós-parto são de grande importância em humanos e têm sido estudadas em várias espécies de animais domésticos. O objetivo do trabalho foi determinar as alterações no eritrograma, no metabolismo do ferro e na concentração sérica de eritropoetina durante os períodos de gestação, parto e pós-parto em fêmeas nulíparas Saanen. Foram colhidas amostras de sangue de 20 fêmeas, clinicamente sadias, aos 49 (M1), 42 (M2), 35 (M3), 28 (M4), 21 (M5), 14 (M6), sete (M7), três (M8) dias antes do parto, no dia do parto (M9), três (M10) e sete (M11) dias após o parto, para a realização do eritrograma, proteína plasmática total, e dosagens séricas de eritropoetina, ferro, capacidade total de ligação do ferro, índice de saturação da transferrina e ferritina. Os dados foram analisados pelo teste de análise de variância (ANOVA) ao nível de 5 por cento de significância (P<0,05). Houve diferença significativa (P<0,05) entre alguns momentos para as variáveis, número de eritrócitos, concentração de hemoglobina, volume globular, proteína total plasmática, concentração de ferro sérico, capacidade total de ligação do ferro (CLTF) e índice de saturação da transferrina (IST). Não houve diferença significativa (P<0,05) para as variáveis eritropoetina, volume corpuscular médio (VCM), hemoglobina corpuscular média (HCM), concentração de hemoglobina corpuscular média (CHCM), distribuição do diâmetro dos eritrócitos (DDE) e ferritina. Concluiu-se que não há aumento do estímulo para a produção de eritrócitos durante os períodos de gestação, parto e pós-parto em fêmeas Saanen e as alterações encontradas no eritrograma e no metabolismo do ferro não possuem significado clínico.

Hematological changes during the pregnancy and parturition are of great importance in humans and have been studied in several species of domestic animals. The objective was to determine changes in erythrogram, iron metabolism and the serum concentration of erythropoietin in nuliparous female Saanen caprine during periods of pregnancy, parturition and postpartum. Blood samples were collected from 20 goats, clinically healthy, the 49 (M1), 42 (M2), 35 (M3), 28 (M4), 21 (M5), 14 (M6), seven (M7), three (M8) days in the pregnancy, parturition (M9), three (M10) and seven (M11) days postpartum for the erythrogram, plasma total protein and the serum of erythropoietin, iron, total iron binding capacity, transferrin saturation index and ferritin determination. The data were analyzed by analysis of variance (ANOVA) at 5 percent level of significance (P<0,05). Significant difference (P<0,05) between a few moments for the variables, erythrocytes count, hemoglobin concentration, packed cell volume, total plasma proteins, serum iron concentration, total iron binding capacity (TIBC) and transferrin saturation index (TSI) determination. There were no significant difference for the variables erythropoietin, mean cell volume (MCV), mean cell hemoglobin (MCH), mean cell hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), red cell distribution width (RDW) and ferritin. In conclusion, there was no stimulus for the increasing of the red blood cells production during the periods of pregnancy, parturition and postpartum in nuliparous Saanen goats. No clinical significance was observed in the in red blood cell count and in the iron metabolism.

Conidiobolomicose causada por conidiobolus lamprauges em ovinos no estado de Santa Catarina / Conidiobolomycosis caused by conidiobolus lamprauges in sheep in the state of Santa Catarina, Brazil

Descreve-se um surto de conidiobolomicose em ovinos no Estado de Santa Catarina. O surto ocorreu entre os meses de dezembro e março de 2006, no município de Santo Amaro da Imperatriz, região litorânea do Estado. A propriedade possuía 75 ovinos da raça Santa Inês e seis desses animais adoeceram. Clinicamente os animais doentes apresentavam dificuldade respiratória, corrimento nasal seroso a mucossanguinolento e, por vezes exolftalmia. Na necropsia verificou-se uma massa amarelada na região etmoidal e adjacências que, às vezes, atingia os linfonodos regionais, cérebro, globo ocular e pleura. Microscopicamente a massa caracterizava-se por infiltrado inflamatório granulomatoso com áreas necróticas associadas a hifas largas pouco ramificadas. Através de exame molecular detectou-se DNA de Conidiobolus lamprauges. Os aspectos clínicos, epidemiológicos, macroscópicos, microscópicos e moleculares caracterizam a conidiobolomicose causada por Conidiobolus lamprauges em ovinos.

An outbreak of conidiobolomycosis affecting sheep in the State of Santa Catarina, Southern Brazil is reported. The disease occurred in six Santa Inês breed sheep from a flock of 75 during the rainy season. Common clinical signs were noisy respiration and dyspnea, serous to mucosanguineous nasal discharge and exophthalmus. At necropsy there was a dense yellow mass in the nasopharyngeal area affecting the ethmoidal region, turbinate bones and occasionally limph nodes, central nervous system and pleura. Histopathologycally there was multifocal granulomas whith an eosinophilic necrotic reaction containing ribbon type hyphae similar to zygomycetous fungi. At molecular examination Conidiobolus lamprauges DNA was detected. The clinical, epidemiological, macroscopical, microscopical and molecular aspects characterize conidiobolomycosis caused by Conidiobolus lamprauges in sheep.

Perfil eletroforético das proteínas séricas de serpentes Crotalus durissus terrificus (cascavel) criadas em cativeiro / Serum protein electrophoresis profile of the rattlesnake Crotalus durissus terrificus kept in captivity

As serpentes peçonhentas dos gêneros Bothrops e Crotalus têm sido mantidas em cativeiro visando à extração de venenos para a produção de imunobiológicos. O conhecimento da fisiologia desses animais e as alterações na concentração de proteínas e suas frações séricas são importantes para a identificação precoce de importantes enfermidades que cursam com estados de hipoproteinemia e hiperproteinemia. O objetivo do trabalho foi determinar a concentração de proteína total e o perfil eletroforético das proteínas séricas de serpentes Crotalus durissus terrificus (cascavel) criadas em cativeiro. Foram colhidas amostras de sangue da veia coccígea ventral de 21 serpentes adultas e sadias, divididas em dois grupos: Grupo 1 de 12 machos com peso médio de 588,89±193,55g, e Grupo 2 de nove fêmeas com peso médio de 708,33±194,04g. A proteína total sérica foi determinada pelo método de refratometria e a eletroforese em gel de agarose. Obtiveram-se valores da proteína total sérica (g/dL) de 4,51±0,50 para machos e de 4,82±0,72 para fêmeas, e para machos e fêmeas de 4,64±0,61. Foram identificadas pela eletroforese quatro frações protéicas (g/dL): albumina, a, b, g-globulinas e calculada a relação albumina:globulina. As serpentes fêmeas apresentaram maiores valores para as variáveis, albumina e para a relação albumina/globulina (AG) diferindo significativamente (P<0,05) do grupo de machos, porém sem significado clínico.

The poisonous snakes of the genera Crotalus and Bothrops have been kept in captivity with the purpose of extracting poison for the production of immunobiological. Knowledge of the physiology of these animals and serum proteins concentration changes are important for early identification of major diseases which lead to states of hypoproteinemia and hyperproteinemia. The objective was to determine the concentration of total protein and serum protein electrophoresis profile of Crotalus durissus terrificus (rattlesnake) in captivity. Blood samples were taken from the ventral coccygeal vein of 21 adult and healthy snakes divided into groups: Group 1 with 12 males, weighing in average 588.89±193.55g, and Group 2 with nine females, weighing in average 708.33±194.04g. The total serum concentration of protein was determined by the method of refractometry and agarose gel electrophoresis. The total protein values in the serum for females was 4.82±0.72, for males 4.51±0.50 and males and females 4.64±0.61, identified by four fractions (g/dL): albumin, a, b and g-globulin. Additionally the albumin/globulin ratio was calculated. The female snakes showed higher values for the variables, albumin and the albumin/globulin (AG) differed significantly (P<0.05) from the group of male snakes, but there was no clinical significance.

Intoxicação por closantel em ovinos e caprinos no Estado de Santa Catarina: [revisão] / Poisoning by closantel in sheep and goats in the State of Santa Catarina, Brazil: [revisão]

Descrevem-se dois surtos de intoxicação por clo-santel, um em ovinos e outro em caprinos, no Estado de San-ta Catarina. No primeiro surto, de 12 ovinos que adoeceram 5 apresentaram cegueira, desses três morreram (Ovinos 1-3) e dois (Ovinos 4 e 5) foram eutanasiados, 6 meses após ficarem cegos. No segundo surto, de 26 caprinos que adoeceram, seis animais sobreviveram, porém ficaram cegos, e um deles foi eutanasiado. Clinicamente os animais apresentavam depressão, ataxia, incoordenação motora e reflexo pupilar diminuído a ausente. Em alguns animais esse quadro evoluiu para cegueira bilateral com ausência de reflexo de ameaça e midríase bilateral irresponsiva. Ao exame oftálmico verificou-se atrofia dos vasos da retina e hiperreflexia. Pelo exame histológico observou-se edema mielínico levando a status spongiosus no sistema nervoso central e neuropatia compressiva no nervo óptico, acompanhada de degeneração e/ou atrofia da retina. O objetivo deste trabalho é descrever os aspectos epidemiológicos, clínicos e patológicos da intoxicação por closantel em ovinos e caprinos.

Two outbreaks of closantel overdosage in sheep and goat flocks are described. In the first outbreak 12 sheep were affected, 5 of them showed blindness, three sheep died (Sheep 1-3) and two were euthanized 6 months after the onset of clinical manifestation (Sheep 4 and 5). In the second outbreak 26 goats were affected, from which six survived despite blindness and one was euthanized. Clinically the animals showed depression, ataxia, motor incoordination, decreased or absent pupil reflexes. In some animals this clinical picture developed to bilateral blindness, with no reaction to threat and bilateral irresponsive midriasis. In the ophthalmic examination retinal vessel atrophy and hyperreflexia were observed. The histological examination showed myelin edema leading to status spongiosus in the central nervous system and compressive neuropathy of the optic nerve, associated with retinal degeneration and/or atrophy. This report aims to describe the epidemiologic, clinic and pathologic aspects of closantel overdosage in sheep and goats.

Valores da Amplitude de Distribuição do Tamanho dos Eritrócitos (RDW) em eqüinos Puro Sangue Inglês (PSI) submetidos a exercícios de diferentes intensidades / Values of Red Blood Cell Distribution Width (RDW) in thoroughbred horse submitted to exercise of different intensity

O presente estudo foi delineado para avaliar as alterações nos valores da amplitude de distribuição do tamanho dos eritrócitos (RDW) e do volume globular médio (VGM) em eqüinos PSI submetidos a exercícios de diferentes intensidades. Foram colhidas amostras de sangue de 60 eqüinos, PSI, sendo 30 machos e 30 fêmeas, distribuídos nos seguintes grupos: eqüinos de 24 a 36 meses de idade não submetidos a treinamento e após um período de 12 meses de treinamento; eqüinos de 36 a 48 meses de idade em fase de treinamento, antes e após o trote e antes e após o galope. As amostras foram processadas no contador automático de células Cell-Dyn 3500R (Abbott Diagnostic). Os valores médios obtidos para o RDW aumentaram significativamente após o trote e galope, demonstrando ocorrer alteração no grau de anisocitose porém os valores do VGM não apresentaram alterações nesses mesmos momentos.

In order to evaluate the influence of exercise of different intensities on Red Blood Cell Distribution width (RDW) and Packed Cell Volume (VG) in Thoroughbred horses, blood was collected from 60 animals, 30 males and 30 females, subdivided in groups of horses with 24 to 36 months of age and not in training, and after 12 months of training, and horses with 36 to 48 months of age in training. Blood samples where collected before and after trot and gallop. Samples where analyzed with a automatic cell counter (Cell-Dyn 3500R, Abbott Diagnostic). Red Blood Cell Distribution width (RDW) values increased significantly after trot and gallop demonstrating a variation in the size of red blood cells, while Packed Medium Cell Volume (VGM) values did not show variations before or after exercise.