Isolation and genetic characterization of Toxoplasma gondii from chickens from public markets in Pernambuco State, Brazil.

This study aimed to evaluate the presence and viability of Toxoplasma gondii in chickens intended for human consumption in the Pernambuco State, Brazil. Blood and tissue samples were collected from 25 chickens sold in markets in Recife, Pernambuco. Samples were evaluated by indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA) to detect antibodies to T. gondii. Pools of brain and heart of seropositive chickens were subjected to bioassay in two Swiss Webster mice, which were evaluated for 45 days then tested by IFA to detect seroconversion. The mice were euthanized, and their brains were evaluated for cysts. Peritoneal lavage was also conducted in mice that exhibited clinical signs. Brains containing cysts or peritoneal lavage with tachyzoites were inoculated into MA-104 cells. Brains of mice inoculated with the same tissue were pooled and analysed by ITS1-PCR. We obtained a frequency of antibodies to T. gondii of 68.00% (17/25) in chickens, and a seroconversion rate of 70.58% (24/34) in mice. Detection of Toxoplasma ITS1 DNA confirmed an isolation rate of 41.1% (7/17). Three isolates were characterized by mnPCR-RFLP as genotypes ToxoDB#36 and ToxoDB#114. We highlight the occurrence of ToxoDB#36 in chickens in Pernambuco State and the parasites' viability in chickens intended for human consumption.

Occurrence of Apicomplexa protozoa in wild birds in the Northeast region of Brazil.

Protozoa of the Apicomplexa phylum are worldwide distributed with capacity to infect endothermic animals. The study of these protozoa in wild birds in Brazil is scarce. This study aimed to evaluate the occurrence of apicomplexan protozoa in wild birds in the Northeast of Brazil. From October to December 2019, brain tissue samples were collected from 71 captive birds from the Wild Animal Screening Center of the Pernambuco State (CETRAS-Tangara) and 25 free-living birds from the Caatinga biome in Rio Grande do Norte, totaling 96 animals (41 species). Brain fragments were subjected to molecular diagnosis by nested PCR for the 18s rDNA gene of Apicomplexa parasites, followed by DNA sequencing. This gene was detected in 25% (24/96) of the samples, and it was possible to perform DNA sequencing of 14 samples, confirming three genera: Isospora, Sarcocystis and Toxoplasma from eight bird species (Amazona aestiva, Coereba flaveola, Egretta thula, Paroaria dominicana, Sporophila nigricollis, Cariama cristata, Columbina talpacoti, Crypturellus parvirostris). The occurrence these coccidia in wild birds provides important epidemiological information for the adoption of preventive measures for its conservation. Future studies are needed to better understand the consequence of Apicomplexa infection in birds in Caatinga and Atlantic Forest biomes.

Cross-sectional survey for Toxoplasma gondii infection in humans in Fernando de Noronha island, Brazil.

Toxoplasmosis, caused by the protozoan Toxoplasma gondii, is zoonotic disease and is one of the most important foodborne parasitic diseases globally. The prevalence in humans is highly variable, being influenced by cultural habits, socioeconomic, and environmental conditions. The objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence of T. gondii infection in humans on the archipelago of Fernando de Noronha, Pernambuco State, Brazil, and to identify the risk factors associated with this infection. The seroprevalence of immunoglobulin G anti-T. gondii antibodies was 50.4% (172/341, 95% CI: 45.2%-55.7%). Factors associated with the infection were consumption of well water or rainwater (odds ratio [OR]: 2.43, p=0.020) and consumption of game meat (OR: 1.80, p=0.026). This is the first study to provide epidemiological information of T. gondii infection among the residents of the Island of Fernando de Noronha, revealing a considerable antibody seroprevalence in this population. This study provides information for the adoption of prevention and control measures in island environments.

Neospora caninum DNA in feces of crab-eating fox (Cerdocyon thous - Linnaeus, 1776) from northeastern Brazil.

Neospora caninum is an obligate intracellular tissue cyst-forming coccidian parasite and it was first described in dogs. Despite the relevance of wild canids in the transmission chain of N. caninum, there are few studies in Brazil. The aim of the present study was to detect N. caninum DNA in feces of free-range and captive crab-eating fox (Cerdocyon thous) from different states of northeastern Brazil. Fecal samples of eighteen crab-eating foxes (fifteen individually and three pools) were collected in sterile containers and were kept cool at -20 °C until further processing. All fecal samples were subjected to DNA extraction. A nested PCR targeting the ITS-1 gene was performed for N. caninum. All the positive bands were extracted from the gel and purified. Forward and reverse strands were sequenced and the nucleotide sequences obtained were compared with N. caninum sequences deposited in Genbank. The alignment was edited and phylogenetic reconstruction was based on the ITS1 gene sequences. Thirteen stool samples were PCR-positive for N. caninum DNA. Nine out of thirteen positive samples showed similarity between 99%-100% for N. caninum in relation to the sequence U25044.1 stored at GenBank. The crab-eating fox could have an important role in the sylvatic cycle of Neospora caninum in Brazil. Experimental infections studies involving these wild canids may confirm if the crab-eating foxes are definitive hosts of N. caninum.

Occurrence of Apicomplexa protozoa in wild birds in the Northeast region of Brazil / Ocorrência de protozoários Apicomplexa em aves silvestres na região Nordeste do Brasil

Protozoa of the Apicomplexa phylum are worldwide distributed with capacity to infect endothermic animals. The study of these protozoa in wild birds in Brazil is scarce. This study aimed to evaluate the occurrence of apicomplexan protozoa in wild birds in the Northeast of Brazil. From October to December 2019, brain tissue samples were collected from 71 captive birds from the Wild Animal Screening Center of the Pernambuco State (CETRAS-Tangara) and 25 free-living birds from the Caatinga biome in Rio Grande do Norte, totaling 96 animals (41 species). Brain fragments were subjected to molecular diagnosis by nested PCR for the 18s rDNA gene of Apicomplexa parasites, followed by DNA sequencing. This gene was detected in 25% (24/96) of the samples, and it was possible to perform DNA sequencing of 14 samples, confirming three genera: Isospora, Sarcocystis and Toxoplasma from eight bird species (Amazona aestiva, Coereba flaveola, Egretta thula, Paroaria dominicana, Sporophila nigricollis, Cariama cristata, Columbina talpacoti, Crypturellus parvirostris). The occurrence these coccidia in wild birds provides important epidemiological information for the adoption of preventive measures for its conservation. Future studies are needed to better understand the consequence of Apicomplexa infection in birds in Caatinga and Atlantic Forest biomes.(AU)

Protozoários do filo Apicomplexa são distribuídos mundialmente e com capacidade de infectar animais endotérmicos. O estudo destes protozoários, em aves silvestres do Brasil, é escasso. Objetivou-se avaliar a ocorrência de protozoários Apicomplexa em aves silvestres na região Nordeste do Brasil. De outubro a dezembro de 2019, foram coletadas amostras de encéfalo de 71 aves de cativeiro do Centro de Triagem e Reabilitação de Animais Silvestres de Pernambuco (CETRAS-Tangara). E 25 aves de vida livre do bioma Caatinga no Rio Grande do Norte, totalizando 96 animais (41 espécies). Os fragmentos de encéfalo foram submetidos ao diagnóstico molecular por nested PCR, para o gene 18s rDNA de protozoários Apicomplexa, seguido por sequenciamento do DNA. Este gene foi detectado em 25% (24/96) das amostras analisadas; foi possível realizar o sequenciamento de 14 amostras, confirmando-se três gêneros: Isospora, Sarcocystis e Toxoplasma em oito espécies de aves (Amazona aestiva, Coereba flaveola, Egretta thula, Paroaria dominicana, Sporophila nigricollis, Cariama cristata, Columbina talpacoti, Crypturellus parvirostris). A ocorrência destes coccídios nas aves silvestres fornece informações epidemiológicas importantes para a adoção de medidas preventivas tendo em vista sua conservação. Estudos futuros são necessários para melhor compreensão da consequência da infecção por Apicomplexa, em aves silvestres dos biomas Caatinga e Floresta Atlântica.(AU)

mecA positive Staphylococcus spp in bovine mastitis, milkers, milking environment, and the circulation of different MRSA clones at dairy cows farms in the Northeast region of Brazil / Staphylococcus spp mecA positivo em mastite bovina, ordenhadores, ambiente de ordenha e circulação de diferentes clones de MRSA em fazendas de vacas leiteiras na região Nordeste do Brasil

This study detected the presence and distribution of mecA in Staphylococcus spp. in the dairy production environment at farm level in Brazil. We analyzed 335 samples of mastitis cow milk, 15 samples of nostrils and hand swabs from milkers, 14 teat cup swabs, and 9 milking buckets swabs. Initially, the samples were subjected to microbiological analysis to detect Staphylococcus spp. and then S. aureus and mecA positive isolates were identified by PCR. All S. aureus isolates carrying the mecA genes were subjected to DNA macro-restriction analysis by Pulsed-Field Gel Electrophoresis (PFGE). The mecA gene was detected in 6/335 (1.78%) of mastitis cow milk, 5/15 (33.3%), and 5/15 (33.3%) of nostrils and hand swab, and 4/14 (28.5%) of the teat cup isolates. MRSA genotyping was performed by PFGE, a total of seven pulsotypes were grouped in two clusters. This study identified the occurrence and spread of MRSA at dairy environment of farms, and also the existence of distinct genetic profiles between isolates.

Este estudo teve como objetivo detectar a presença e distribuição de mecA em Staphylococcus spp. no ambiente de produção leiteira em fazendas no Brasil. Foram analisadas 335 amostras de leite de vaca com mastite, 15 amostras de swabs de narinas e mãos de ordenhadores, 14 swabs de teteiras e nove swabs de baldes de ordenha. Inicialmente, as amostras foram submetidas a análises microbiológicas para detecção de Staphylococcus spp. e os isolados positivos foram identificados por PCR para S. aureus e mecA. Todos os isolados de S. aureus portadores do gene mecA foram submetidos à análise de macrorrestrição do DNA por Pulsed-Field Gel Electrophoresis (PFGE). O gene mecA foi detectado em 6/335 (1,78%) de leite de vaca com mastite, 5/15 (33,3%) e 5/15 (33,3%) de swab de narinas e de mãos, e 4/14 (28,5%) de teteiras. A genotipagem de MRSA realizada por PFGE identificou um total de sete pulsotipos, que foram agrupados em dois clusters. Este estudo identificou a ocorrência e disseminação de MRSA no ambiente das fazendas leiteiras, e também a existência de perfis genéticos distintos entre os isolados.

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus epidermidis in handler of cheese made with goat's milk in Brazil / Staphylococcus epidermidis resistente à meticilina em manipulador de queijo elaborado com leite de cabra no Brasil

In the Northeastern Brazil, artisanal cheese production is an important local economic activity for small producers. Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus is responsible for causing infection in animals and humans. This study described the first detection of methicillin resistant S. epidermidis isolated in the nasal cavity of a handler of coalho cheese made with goat’s milk in Northeastern Brazil. This brief communication highlighted the importance of adopting biosafety measures by cheese handlers, in order to reduce possible contamination and the spread of pathogens in the production chain of this type of artisanal cheese in Brazil.

Na região Nordeste do Brasil, a cadeia de produção de queijo artesanal é uma atividade local importante para pequenos produtores. Staphylococcus resistentes à meticilina são responsáveis por causar infecções em animais e seres humanos. Neste estudo descreve se a primeira detecção de S. epidermidis resistente à meticilina isolado da cavidade nasal de um manipulador de queijo coalho elaborado com leite de cabra no Nordeste do Brasil. Este relato destaca a importância da adoção de medidas de biossegurança por manipuladores de queijo, a fim de reduzir possíveis contaminações e a disseminação de patógenos na cadeia produtiva deste tipo de queijo artesanal no Brasil.

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus epidermidis in handler of cheese made with goat's milk in Brazil / Staphylococcus epidermidis resistente à meticilina em manipulador de queijo elaborado com leite de cabra no Brasil

In the Northeastern Brazil, artisanal cheese production is an important local economic activity for small producers. Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus is responsible for causing infection in animals and humans. This study described the first detection of methicillin resistant S. epidermidis isolated in the nasal cavity of a handler of coalho cheese made with goats milk in Northeastern Brazil. This brief communication highlighted the importance of adopting biosafety measures by cheese handlers, in order to reduce possible contamination and the spread of pathogens in the production chain of this type of artisanal cheese in Brazil.(AU)

Na região Nordeste do Brasil, a cadeia de produção de queijo artesanal é uma atividade local importante para pequenos produtores. Staphylococcus resistentes à meticilina são responsáveis por causar infecções em animais e seres humanos. Neste estudo descreve se a primeira detecção de S. epidermidis resistente à meticilina isolado da cavidade nasal de um manipulador de queijo coalho elaborado com leite de cabra no Nordeste do Brasil. Este relato destaca a importância da adoção de medidas de biossegurança por manipuladores de queijo, a fim de reduzir possíveis contaminações e a disseminação de patógenos na cadeia produtiva deste tipo de queijo artesanal no Brasil.(AU)

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus epidermidis in handler of cheese made with goat's milk in Brazil / Staphylococcus epidermidis resistente à meticilina em manipulador de queijo elaborado com leite de cabra no Brasil

ABSTRACT: In the Northeastern Brazil, artisanal cheese production is an important local economic activity for small producers. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus is responsible for causing infection in animals and humans. This study described the first detection of methicillin-resistant S. epidermidis isolated in the nasal cavity of a handler of coalho cheese made with goat's milk in Northeastern Brazil. This brief communication highlighted the importance of adopting biosafety measures by cheese handlers, in order to reduce possible contamination and the spread of pathogens in the production chain of this type of artisanal cheese in Brazil.

RESUMO: Na região Nordeste do Brasil, a cadeia de produção de queijo artesanal é uma atividade local importante para pequenos produtores. Staphylococcus resistentes à meticilina são responsáveis por causar infecções em animais e seres humanos. Neste estudo descreve-se a primeira detecção de S. epidermidis resistente à meticilina isolado da cavidade nasal de um manipulador de queijo coalho elaborado com leite de cabra no Nordeste do Brasil. Este relato destaca a importância da adoção de medidas de biossegurança por manipuladores de queijo, a fim de reduzir possíveis contaminações e a disseminação de patógenos na cadeia produtiva deste tipo de queijo artesanal no Brasil.

Clonality test by PCR - PARR in real time of canine lymphomas

Lymphoma is a neoplasm of hematopoietic origin that affects canines. The proper establishment of prognosis and rapid institution of treatment are essential for a better quality of life, and immunophenotyping is one of the tools used for this purpose. The objective of this study was to perform a clonality test for immunophenotypic characterization of canine lymphomas using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for antigen receptor rearrangements (PARR) technique in real-time from samples fixed in formalin and embedded in paraffin. The 23 analyzed samples were fixed in formalin and embedded in paraffin canine lymphoma from the collection Laboratory of Histopathology of the Animal Pathology Area of the Departament of Veterinary Medicine - Federal Rural University of Pernambuco (UFRPE). Samples were processed, their DNA was extracted, quantified, diluted, and standardized at a concentration of 50 ng/µL. After extraction, all samples were subjected to conventional PCR for endogenous control (detection of the IgM target region), in which the extracted DNA was amplified in a final volume of 25 µL. The 128 bp amplified product was detected by 1.5% agarose gel electrophoresis. Of the 23 samples analyzed for the detection of the conserved region referring to the endogenous gene, 91.30% (21/23) amplified the conserved region Cµ by conventional PCR, and two samples 8.70% (2/23) were negative. Endogenous control positive samples were subjected to real-time PCR-PARR for detection of IgH Major and IgH Minor for B lymphocytes (LB), and TCRy for lymphocytes T (LT) target regions. All reactions were performed in duplicate to reduce the risk of false-positive or false-negative results due to technical errors. Samples previously confirmed by immunohistochemistry were used as positive controls for T cell and B cell lymphoma, and MilliQ water was used as a negative reaction control. After amplification, the melting curve gradually increased the temperature by 1o C/5 s to 95o C during continuous fluorescence monitoring. Of the 21 samples analyzed, 100.00% (21/21) demonstrated clonal amplification. Of these, 57.15% (12/21) were positive for phenotype B, and 42.85% (9/21) were positive for phenotype T. Due to the importance of researching and confirming samples from files fixed and embedded in paraffin samples in laboratories, PCR-PARR is a good tool for this purpose. In the present study, real-time PCR analysis demonstrated greater sensitivity in the characterization of the immunophenotype of lymphomas from old samples fixed in formalin and embedded in paraffin. The temperature of melting curve analysis may vary depending on the amount of DNA and its quality. In the present study, it was found that the average melting temperature in the samples varied between ± 3o C when compared to that in the control sample for LB and LT, 83.5o C and 80o C, respectively: in the literature, there is a relative difference in this temperature, which may vary up to 4o C. Real-time PCR-PARR was satisfactory in the characterization of the immunophenotype of canine lymphomas from formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded samples; therefore, its use is recommended for both retrospective studies. The use of PCR-PARR associated with histopathological and/or cytopathological examination in cases of canine lymphomas strongly helps pathologists, provide a safe establishment of the immunophenotype, minimize errors, and optimize the diagnosis, thus directly contributing to the establishment of the prognosis.(AU)

Cross-sectional survey for Toxoplasma gondii infection in humans in Fernando de Noronha island, Brazil / Estudo transversal da infecção por Toxoplasma gondii em humanos da Ilha de Fernando de Noronha, Brasil

Toxoplasmosis, caused by the protozoan Toxoplasma gondii, is zoonotic disease and is one of the most important foodborne parasitic diseases globally. The prevalence in humans is highly variable, being influenced by cultural habits, socioeconomic, and environmental conditions. The objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence of T. gondii infection in humans on the archipelago of Fernando de Noronha, Pernambuco State, Brazil, and to identify the risk factors associated with this infection. The seroprevalence of immunoglobulin G anti-T. gondii antibodies was 50.4% (172/341, 95% CI: 45.2%–55.7%). Factors associated with the infection were consumption of well water or rainwater (odds ratio [OR]: 2.43, p=0.020) and consumption of game meat (OR: 1.80, p=0.026). This is the first study to provide epidemiological information of T. gondii infection among the residents of the Island of Fernando de Noronha, revealing a considerable antibody seroprevalence in this population. This study provides information for the adoption of prevention and control measures in island environments.(AU)

A toxoplasmose, causada pelo protozoário Toxoplasma gondii, é uma zoonose e uma das doenças parasitárias transmitidas por alimentos mais importantes em todo o mundo. A prevalência em humanos é altamente variável, sendo influenciada por hábitos culturais, condições socioeconômicas e ambientais. O objetivo deste estudo foi estimar a prevalência de infecção por T. gondii em humanos, no arquipélago de Fernando de Noronha, Pernambuco, Brasil, e identificar os fatores de risco associados a essa infecção nesse contexto insular. A soroprevalência de anticorpos IgG anti-T. gondii nos ilhéus foi de 50,4% (172/341, 95% CI: 45,2%–55,7%). Os fatores associados à infecção encontrados foram o consumo de água do poço ou de água da chuva (Odds ratio [OR]: 2,43, p=0,020) e consumo de carne de caça (OR: 1,80, p=0,026). Este é o primeiro estudo a fornecer informações epidemiológicas da infecção por T. gondii entre os moradores da Ilha de Fernando de Noronha, revelando uma considerável soroprevalência de anticorpos nessa população. Este estudo fornece informações para subsidiar a adoção de medidas de prevenção e controle em ambientes insulares.(AU)

Cross-sectional survey for Toxoplasma gondii infection in humans in Fernando de Noronha island, Brazil / Estudo transversal da infecção por Toxoplasma gondii em humanos da Ilha de Fernando de Noronha, Brasil

Abstract Toxoplasmosis, caused by the protozoan Toxoplasma gondii, is zoonotic disease and is one of the most important foodborne parasitic diseases globally. The prevalence in humans is highly variable, being influenced by cultural habits, socioeconomic, and environmental conditions. The objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence of T. gondii infection in humans on the archipelago of Fernando de Noronha, Pernambuco State, Brazil, and to identify the risk factors associated with this infection. The seroprevalence of immunoglobulin G anti-T. gondii antibodies was 50.4% (172/341, 95% CI: 45.2%-55.7%). Factors associated with the infection were consumption of well water or rainwater (odds ratio [OR]: 2.43, p=0.020) and consumption of game meat (OR: 1.80, p=0.026). This is the first study to provide epidemiological information of T. gondii infection among the residents of the Island of Fernando de Noronha, revealing a considerable antibody seroprevalence in this population. This study provides information for the adoption of prevention and control measures in island environments.

Resumo A toxoplasmose, causada pelo protozoário Toxoplasma gondii, é uma zoonose e uma das doenças parasitárias transmitidas por alimentos mais importantes em todo o mundo. A prevalência em humanos é altamente variável, sendo influenciada por hábitos culturais, condições socioeconômicas e ambientais. O objetivo deste estudo foi estimar a prevalência de infecção por T. gondii em humanos, no arquipélago de Fernando de Noronha, Pernambuco, Brasil, e identificar os fatores de risco associados a essa infecção nesse contexto insular. A soroprevalência de anticorpos IgG anti-T. gondii nos ilhéus foi de 50,4% (172/341, 95% CI: 45,2%-55,7%). Os fatores associados à infecção encontrados foram o consumo de água do poço ou de água da chuva (Odds ratio [OR]: 2,43, p=0,020) e consumo de carne de caça (OR: 1,80, p=0,026). Este é o primeiro estudo a fornecer informações epidemiológicas da infecção por T. gondii entre os moradores da Ilha de Fernando de Noronha, revelando uma considerável soroprevalência de anticorpos nessa população. Este estudo fornece informações para subsidiar a adoção de medidas de prevenção e controle em ambientes insulares.

Bovine mastitis caused by multidrug-resistant Nocardia farcinica

Background: Mastitis caused by Nocardia is characterized by pyogranulomatous inflammation related to inadequatehygiene conditions and is difficult to treat. Prompted by the absence of documentation of Nocardia farcinica associated tobovine mastitis in the Northeast region of Brazil, this is the first report to describe bovine mastitis caused by multidrugresistant N. farcinica.Case: Four milk samples (one from each teat) obtained from a 3-year-old Jersey cow raised on a property located in the metropolitan region of Recife, Pernambuco state, Brazil, were submitted to the Laboratory of Infectious-Contagious Diseases ofthe Veterinary Hospital at Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco [UFRPE]. At the laboratory, samples were cultured inbase agar enriched with 7% sheep blood (blood agar) in a microbiological incubator at 37°C under aerobic conditions for 72h. After only 48 h, however, pure bacterial colony growth was observed in all samples. Macroscopic analysis revealed smallcolonies, with an irregular shape, dry aspect, and greyish in color. Gram-positive rods forming filaments and/or ramificationswere observed using a Gram staining method. Nocardia spp. were identified according to morphotinctorial characteristics.Susceptibility testing using the disc-diffusion method in agar (antibiogram) was performed using the following antibiotics:penicillin (10 IU), tetracycline (30 µg), amoxicillin (10 µg), gentamicin (10 µg), cephalexin (30 µg), erythromycin (15 µg),cephalothin (30 µg) and ampicillin (30 µg). However, the organism exhibited resistance to all drugs; as such, a new milksample was obtained at the same location the initial samples were collected. Samples (approximately 5 mL) were collectedaseptically and separately from all four teats in sterile bottles, during which the presence of granular material was noted.Bacterial culture was performed as...(AU)

Bovine mastitis caused by multidrug-resistant Nocardia farcinica

Background: Mastitis caused by Nocardia is characterized by pyogranulomatous inflammation related to inadequatehygiene conditions and is difficult to treat. Prompted by the absence of documentation of Nocardia farcinica associated tobovine mastitis in the Northeast region of Brazil, this is the first report to describe bovine mastitis caused by multidrugresistant N. farcinica.Case: Four milk samples (one from each teat) obtained from a 3-year-old Jersey cow raised on a property located in the metropolitan region of Recife, Pernambuco state, Brazil, were submitted to the Laboratory of Infectious-Contagious Diseases ofthe Veterinary Hospital at Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco [UFRPE]. At the laboratory, samples were cultured inbase agar enriched with 7% sheep blood (blood agar) in a microbiological incubator at 37°C under aerobic conditions for 72h. After only 48 h, however, pure bacterial colony growth was observed in all samples. Macroscopic analysis revealed smallcolonies, with an irregular shape, dry aspect, and greyish in color. Gram-positive rods forming filaments and/or ramificationswere observed using a Gram staining method. Nocardia spp. were identified according to morphotinctorial characteristics.Susceptibility testing using the disc-diffusion method in agar (antibiogram) was performed using the following antibiotics:penicillin (10 IU), tetracycline (30 µg), amoxicillin (10 µg), gentamicin (10 µg), cephalexin (30 µg), erythromycin (15 µg),cephalothin (30 µg) and ampicillin (30 µg). However, the organism exhibited resistance to all drugs; as such, a new milksample was obtained at the same location the initial samples were collected. Samples (approximately 5 mL) were collectedaseptically and separately from all four teats in sterile bottles, during which the presence of granular material was noted.Bacterial culture was performed as...

Epidemiology of Mycoplasma agalactiae and Mycoplasma mycoides cluster in flocks of northeastern Brazil / Epidemiologia de Mycoplasma agalactiae e Mycoplasma mycoides cluster em rebanhos do nordeste do Brasil

The present study aimed to investigate contagious agalactia (CA) in flocks from Pernambuco State. The study involved 225 goats and 63 ewes; 288 milk samples and 100 vaginal swabs were collected in total. The PCR assays were carried out using specific primers to Mycoplasma agalactiae and the Mycoplasma mycoides cluster. Among the goat’s milk samples,12.0% (27/225) were positive for Mycoplasma agalactiae DNA, while 5.3% (12/225) contained the Mycoplasma mycoides cluster. Of the vaginal swabs taken from goats, 15.4% (12/78) were positive for Mycoplasma agalactiae DNA and 3.8% (3/78) contained the Mycoplasma mycoides cluster. In the case of ewes, 4.3% (1/23) of the milk samples contained Mycoplasma agalactiae DNA, and 7.5% (3/40) were positive for the Mycoplasma mycoides cluster. Vaginal swabs taken from sheep´s were negative. Analysis of risk factors for mycoplasmosis, showed that goats and sheep flocks on the extensive breeding system are more likely to have mycoplasmosis than those on the intensive breeding system (odds ratio (OR) 6.2; p=0.004); meat goat and sheep flocks are more likely to have infection compared to dairy flocks (OR 4.8; p=0.011); unclean animal housing increases the chances of infection (OR 5.0; p=0.031) and not performing quarantine increases the chances of mycoplasmosis (OR 4.6; p=0.042). Based on these findings we conclude that CA syndrome in the semiarid region of Pernambuco state can be associated with Mycoplasma agalactiae and Mycoplasma mycoides cluster.

O objetivo deste estudo foi investigar a Agalaxia contagiosa em rebanhos do estado de Pernambuco. Foram examinadas 225 cabras e 63 ovelhas, das quais foram colhidas 288 amostras de leite e 100 suabes vaginais. Foram realizadas reações da PCR com iniciadores específicos para Mycoplasma agalactiae e Mycoplasma mycoides cluster. A frequência total de Mycoplasma agalactiae em amostras de leite caprino foi de 12,0% (27/225) e de 5,3% (12/225) para Mycoplasma mycoides cluster. Dos suabes vaginais de cabras as frequências detectadas na PCR foram de 15,4% (12/78) para Mycoplasma agalactiaee 3,8% (3/78) para Mycoplasma mycoides cluster. Em leite de ovelhas a frequência de Ma foi de 4.3% (1/23) e de 7,5% (3/40) para Mycoplasma mycoides cluster. Na análise dos fatores de risco para micoplasmoses verificou-se que rebanhos de caprinos e ovinos mantidos no sistema extensivo são mais prováveis de adquirir micoplasmose quando comparados com o sistema intensivo (odds ratio (OR) 6,2; p=0,004); rebanhos de caprinos e ovinos de corte são mais prováveis de adquirir micoplamsose do que rebanhos de leite (OR 4,8; p=0,011); não realizar limpeza das instalações aumenta as chances de infecção (OR 5,0; p=0,031); não realizar quarentena aumenta as chances das micoplasmoses estudadas (OR 4,6; p=0,042). Conclui-se que M. agalactiae e Mycoplasma mycoides cluster estão envolvidos na síndrome de CA em rebanhos de caprinos e ovinos do semiárido pernambucano.

Epidemiology of Mycoplasma agalactiae and Mycoplasma mycoides cluster in flocks of northeastern Brazil / Epidemiologia de Mycoplasma agalactiae e Mycoplasma mycoides cluster em rebanhos do nordeste do Brasil

The present study aimed to investigate contagious agalactia (CA) in flocks from Pernambuco State. The study involved 225 goats and 63 ewes; 288 milk samples and 100 vaginal swabs were collected in total. The PCR assays were carried out using specific primers to Mycoplasma agalactiae and the Mycoplasma mycoides cluster. Among the goats milk samples,12.0% (27/225) were positive for Mycoplasma agalactiae DNA, while 5.3% (12/225) contained the Mycoplasma mycoides cluster. Of the vaginal swabs taken from goats, 15.4% (12/78) were positive for Mycoplasma agalactiae DNA and 3.8% (3/78) contained the Mycoplasma mycoides cluster. In the case of ewes, 4.3% (1/23) of the milk samples contained Mycoplasma agalactiae DNA, and 7.5% (3/40) were positive for the Mycoplasma mycoides cluster. Vaginal swabs taken from sheep´s were negative. Analysis of risk factors for mycoplasmosis, showed that goats and sheep flocks on the extensive breeding system are more likely to have mycoplasmosis than those on the intensive breeding system (odds ratio (OR) 6.2; p=0.004); meat goat and sheep flocks are more likely to have infection compared to dairy flocks (OR 4.8; p=0.011); unclean animal housing increases the chances of infection (OR 5.0; p=0.031) and not performing quarantine increases the chances of mycoplasmosis (OR 4.6; p=0.042). Based on these findings we conclude that CA syndrome in the semiarid region of Pernambuco state can be associated with Mycoplasma agalactiae and Mycoplasma mycoides cluster.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi investigar a Agalaxia contagiosa em rebanhos do estado de Pernambuco. Foram examinadas 225 cabras e 63 ovelhas, das quais foram colhidas 288 amostras de leite e 100 suabes vaginais. Foram realizadas reações da PCR com iniciadores específicos para Mycoplasma agalactiae e Mycoplasma mycoides cluster. A frequência total de Mycoplasma agalactiae em amostras de leite caprino foi de 12,0% (27/225) e de 5,3% (12/225) para Mycoplasma mycoides cluster. Dos suabes vaginais de cabras as frequências detectadas na PCR foram de 15,4% (12/78) para Mycoplasma agalactiaee 3,8% (3/78) para Mycoplasma mycoides cluster. Em leite de ovelhas a frequência de Ma foi de 4.3% (1/23) e de 7,5% (3/40) para Mycoplasma mycoides cluster. Na análise dos fatores de risco para micoplasmoses verificou-se que rebanhos de caprinos e ovinos mantidos no sistema extensivo são mais prováveis de adquirir micoplasmose quando comparados com o sistema intensivo (odds ratio (OR) 6,2; p=0,004); rebanhos de caprinos e ovinos de corte são mais prováveis de adquirir micoplamsose do que rebanhos de leite (OR 4,8; p=0,011); não realizar limpeza das instalações aumenta as chances de infecção (OR 5,0; p=0,031); não realizar quarentena aumenta as chances das micoplasmoses estudadas (OR 4,6; p=0,042). Conclui-se que M. agalactiae e Mycoplasma mycoides cluster estão envolvidos na síndrome de CA em rebanhos de caprinos e ovinos do semiárido pernambucano.(AU)

Epidemiology of Mycoplasma agalactiae and Mycoplasma mycoides cluster in flocks of northeastern Brazil / Epidemiologia de Mycoplasma agalactiae e Mycoplasma mycoides cluster em rebanhos do nordeste do Brasil

ABSTRACT: The present study aimed to investigate contagious agalactia (CA) in flocks from Pernambuco State. The study involved 225 goats and 63 ewes; 288 milk samples and 100 vaginal swabs were collected in total. The PCR assays were carried out using specific primers to Mycoplasma agalactiae and the Mycoplasma mycoides cluster. Among the goat's milk samples,12.0% (27/225) were positive for Mycoplasma agalactiae DNA, while 5.3% (12/225) contained the Mycoplasma mycoides cluster. Of the vaginal swabs taken from goats, 15.4% (12/78) were positive for Mycoplasma agalactiae DNA and 3.8% (3/78) contained the Mycoplasma mycoides cluster. In the case of ewes, 4.3% (1/23) of the milk samples contained Mycoplasma agalactiae DNA, and 7.5% (3/40) were positive for the Mycoplasma mycoides cluster. Vaginal swabs taken from sheep´s were negative. Analysis of risk factors for mycoplasmosis, showed that goats and sheep flocks on the extensive breeding system are more likely to have mycoplasmosis than those on the intensive breeding system (odds ratio (OR) 6.2; p=0.004); meat goat and sheep flocks are more likely to have infection compared to dairy flocks (OR 4.8; p=0.011); unclean animal housing increases the chances of infection (OR 5.0; p=0.031) and not performing quarantine increases the chances of mycoplasmosis (OR 4.6; p=0.042). Based on these findings we conclude that CA syndrome in the semiarid region of Pernambuco state can be associated with Mycoplasma agalactiae and Mycoplasma mycoides cluster.

RESUMO: O objetivo deste estudo foi investigar a Agalaxia contagiosa em rebanhos do estado de Pernambuco. Foram examinadas 225 cabras e 63 ovelhas, das quais foram colhidas 288 amostras de leite e 100 suabes vaginais. Foram realizadas reações da PCR com iniciadores específicos para Mycoplasma agalactiae e Mycoplasma mycoides cluster. A frequência total de Mycoplasma agalactiae em amostras de leite caprino foi de 12,0% (27/225) e de 5,3% (12/225) para Mycoplasma mycoides cluster. Dos suabes vaginais de cabras as frequências detectadas na PCR foram de 15,4% (12/78) para Mycoplasma agalactiaee 3,8% (3/78) para Mycoplasma mycoides cluster. Em leite de ovelhas a frequência de Ma foi de 4.3% (1/23) e de 7,5% (3/40) para Mycoplasma mycoides cluster. Na análise dos fatores de risco para micoplasmoses verificou-se que rebanhos de caprinos e ovinos mantidos no sistema extensivo são mais prováveis de adquirir micoplasmose quando comparados com o sistema intensivo (odds ratio (OR) 6,2; p=0,004); rebanhos de caprinos e ovinos de corte são mais prováveis de adquirir micoplamsose do que rebanhos de leite (OR 4,8; p=0,011); não realizar limpeza das instalações aumenta as chances de infecção (OR 5,0; p=0,031); não realizar quarentena aumenta as chances das micoplasmoses estudadas (OR 4,6; p=0,042). Conclui-se que M. agalactiae e Mycoplasma mycoides cluster estão envolvidos na síndrome de CA em rebanhos de caprinos e ovinos do semiárido pernambucano.

Co-Infection by Sarcoptes scabiei and Microsporum gypseum in Free-Ranging Crab-Eating Fox, Cerdocyon thous (Linnaeus, 1766)

ABSTRACT The aim of the present study was to describe the clinical manifestation, treatment and outcome of a case of co- infection by Sarcoptes scabiei and Microsporum gypseum in Cerdocyon thous (crab-eating fox) from Northeastern Brazil.

Occurrence of anti-Neospora caninum IgG antibodies in dairy cows in the state of Pernambuco, Brazil / Ocorrência de anticorpos IgG anti-Neospora caninum em vacas leiteiras no estado de Pernambuco, Brasil

Neosporosis is a disease caused by Neospora caninum, considered a major cause of abortion, responsible for major economic losses and sanitary problems in cattle creations. This study was performed to search for anti-Neospora caninum IgG antibodies in dairy cows. Blood serum samples were obtained from 533 cows from 13 municipalities in the state of Pernambuco. For the detection of antibodies was used the immunofluorescent antibody test (IFAT). IFAT was possible to determine a positivity of 6.4% (34/533). The results demonstrate the presence of infection by Neospora caninum in different regions of the state of Pernambuco.

A Neosporose é uma enfermidade causada pelo Neospora caninum, considerada uma importante causa de aborto, responsável por sérios prejuízos econômicos e sanitários em criações de bovinos. Neste estudo foi realizada a pesquisa de anticorpos IgG anti-Neospora caninum em vacas leiteiras. Foram obtidas amostras de soro sanguíneo de 533 vacas provenientes de 13 municípios no Estado de Pernambuco. Para a pesquisa de anticorpos foi empregada a técnica de Imunofluorescência Indireta (RIFI). Na RIFI foi possível determinar uma positividade de 6,4% (34/533). Os resultados obtidos demostram a presença da infecção por Neospora caninum em diferentes regiões do Estado de Pernambuco.

Occurrence of anti-Neospora caninum IgG antibodies in dairy cows in the state of Pernambuco, Brazil / Ocorrência de anticorpos IgG anti-Neospora caninum em vacas leiteiras no estado de Pernambuco, Brasil

Neosporosis is a disease caused by Neospora caninum, considered a major cause of abortion, responsible for major economic losses and sanitary problems in cattle creations. This study was performed to search for anti-Neospora caninum IgG antibodies in dairy cows. Blood serum samples were obtained from 533 cows from 13 municipalities in the state of Pernambuco. For the detection of antibodies was used the immunofluorescent antibody test (IFAT). IFAT was possible to determine a positivity of 6.4% (34/533). The results demonstrate the presence of infection by Neospora caninum in different regions of the state of Pernambuco.(AU)

A Neosporose é uma enfermidade causada pelo Neospora caninum, considerada uma importante causa de aborto, responsável por sérios prejuízos econômicos e sanitários em criações de bovinos. Neste estudo foi realizada a pesquisa de anticorpos IgG anti-Neospora caninum em vacas leiteiras. Foram obtidas amostras de soro sanguíneo de 533 vacas provenientes de 13 municípios no Estado de Pernambuco. Para a pesquisa de anticorpos foi empregada a técnica de Imunofluorescência Indireta (RIFI). Na RIFI foi possível determinar uma positividade de 6,4% (34/533). Os resultados obtidos demostram a presença da infecção por Neospora caninum em diferentes regiões do Estado de Pernambuco.(AU)