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Cutting dry deciduous forest (preserved site) for wood supply in semi-arid Brazil has led to invasion of a pioneer shrub vegetation called “Carrasco” (disturbed site), which inhibits the sprouting of native species. A land restoration project was undertaken in a cleared Carrasco area where a mixed plantation of native species and Eucalyptus spp. (experimental site) was established to preserve the forest and ensure wood supply for the local population. We considered phosphorus as a limiting soil nutrient to plant growth, and we addressed the roles of litter decomposition and microbial activity on phosphorus release in the disturbed, preserved and experimental sites. The phosphorus released from leaf litter was affected by the vegetation type, which favored specific soil microbial populations during decomposition. The Carrasco vegetation predominantly favored arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), as shown by root colonization in the litter bags; the Eucalyptus plants favored AMF and ectomycorrhizal fungi (EM), as well as phosphate solubilizing microorganisms (PSM), and the intercropping system favored AMF and PSM groups. In contrast, the preserved site favored the PSM population. High phosphatase activity was found in the preserved and experimental sites in contrast to the Carrasco soil. Principal component analysis showed that AMF root colonization and phosphatase activity were the main parameters influencing the increase in soil phosphorus. Based on the above results, rehabilitation appeared to be underway in the experimental site, since the samples were more similar to the preserved site than to the disturbed site. This effect was attributed to Eucalyptus camaldulensis that promote the establishment of all phosphorus cycle-related microorganisms (AMF, EM and PSF). E. camaldulensis associated with mycorrhizal fungi and PSM are recommended for inclusion in agroforestry systems.

Foram realizados dois ensaios com o objetivo de avaliar a digestibilidade aparente de nutrientes em dietas para eqüinos, utilizando o método da coleta total de fezes e os indicadores óxido crômico, fibra em detergente ácido indigestível (FDAi), fibra em detergente neutro indigestível (FDNi), celulose indigestível (CELi), lignina (LIG) e cinzas insolúveis em detergente ácido (CIDA). No primeiro ensaio, foram utilizados cinco potros mestiços, alimentados com cinco dietas contendo níveis diferenciados de proteína bruta, mantendo a relação concentrado e volumoso em 50:50. O óxido crômico foi utilizado como indicador externo. No segundo ensaio, foram utilizados quatro potros mestiços, alimentados com dietas compostas por feno de coastcross como volumoso e concentrado nas proporções de 40:60, 60:40, 80:20 e 100:00. Nos dois ensaios, os teores de fibra em detergente ácido indigestível, fibra em detergente neutro indigestível, celulose indigestível, lignina e cinzas insolúveis em detergente ácido foram obtidos após incubação in vitro. No primeiro ensaio, a FDAi mostrou-se adequada como indicador interno para estimar a digestibilidade; a CELi, em ambos os ensaios, foi adequada como indicador interno para a estimativa da digestibilidade aparente de nutrientes em dietas para eqüinos. O óxido crômico apresentou baixa recuperação fecal no primeiro ensaio e a LIG, baixa recuperação fecal nos dois ensaios, subestimando os coeficientes de digestibilidade dos nutrientes, sendo inadequada sua utilização para estimativa da digestibilidade. A CIDA, em função da metodologia de coleta fecal, também mostrou-se inadequada para as estimativas de digestibilidade em eqüinos.

Abstract Background Rhizobium tropici CIAT 899 and Rhizobium sp. PRF 81 are α-Proteobacteria that establish nitrogen-fixing symbioses with a range of legume hosts. These strains are broadly used in commercial inoculants for application to common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) in South America and Africa. Both strains display intrinsic resistance to several abiotic stressful conditions such as low soil pH and high temperatures, which are common in tropical environments, and to several antimicrobials, including pesticides. The genetic determinants of these interesting characteristics remain largely unknown. Results Genome sequencing revealed that CIAT 899 and PRF 81 share a highly-conserved symbiotic plasmid (pSym) that is present also in Rhizobium leucaenae CFN 299, a rhizobium displaying a similar host range. This pSym seems to have arisen by a co-integration event between two replicons. Remarkably, three distinct nodA genes were found in the pSym, a characteristic that may contribute to the broad host range of these rhizobia. Genes for biosynthesis and modulation of plant-hormone levels were also identified in the pSym. Analysis of genes involved in stress response showed that CIAT 899 and PRF 81 are well equipped to cope with low pH, high temperatures and also with oxidative and osmotic stresses. Interestingly, the genomes of CIAT 899 and PRF 81 had large numbers of genes encoding drug-efflux systems, which may explain their high resistance to antimicrobials. Genome analysis also revealed a wide array of traits that may allow these strains to be successful rhizosphere colonizers, including surface polysaccharides, uptake transporters and catabolic enzymes for nutrients, diverse iron-acquisition systems, cell wall-degrading enzymes, type I and IV pili, and novel T1SS and T5SS secreted adhesins. Conclusions Availability of the complete genome sequences of CIAT 899 and PRF 81 may be exploited in further efforts to understand the interaction of tropical rhizobia with common bean and other legume hosts.

Studies on animal virome have mainly concentrated on chordates and medically significant invertebrates, often overlooking sylvatic mosquitoes, constituting a major part of mosquito species diversity. Despite their potential role in arbovirus transmission, the viromes of sylvatic mosquitoes remain largely unexplored. These mosquitoes may also harbor insect-specific viruses (ISVs), affecting arboviral transmission dynamics. The Cerrado biome, known for rapid deforestation and its status as a biodiversity hotspot, offers an ideal setting for investigating mosquito viromes due to potential zoonotic spillover risks from land use changes. This study aimed to characterize the viromes of sylvatic mosquitoes collected from various locations within Minas Gerais state, Brazil. The total RNA was extracted from mosquito pools of Psorophora albipes , Sabethes albiprivus , Sa. chloropterus , Psorophora ferox , and Coquillettidia venezuelensis species, followed by high-throughput sequencing (HTS). Bioinformatic analysis included quality control, contig assembly, and viral detection. Sequencing data analysis revealed 11 near-complete viral genomes (new viruses are indicated with asterisks) across seven viral families and one unassigned genus. These included: Xinmoviridae (Ferox mosquito mononega-like virus* and Albipes mosquito Gordis-like virus*), Phasmaviridae (Sabethes albiprivus phasmavirus*), Lispiviridae (Pedras lispivirus variant MG), Iflaviridae (Sabethes albiprivus iflavivirus*), Virgaviridae (Buriti virga-like virus variant MG and Sabethes albiprivus virgavirus 1*), Flaviviridae (Psorophora ferox flavivirus*), Mesoniviridae (Alphamesonivirus cavallyense variant MG), and the genus Negevirus (Biggie virus variant MG virus and Coquillettidia venezuelensis negevirus*). Moreover, the presence of ISVs and potential novel arboviruses underscores the need for ongoing surveillance and control strategies to mitigate the risk of emerging infectious diseases.

The Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) presents global health challenges, with Brazil experiencing outbreaks since its introduction in 2014. In 2023, following a CHIKV outbreak in Minas Gerais (MG), social media was used to optimize an entomological survey aimed at identifying vectors and viral lineages and assessing insecticide resistance. Following Instagram posts, residents with suspected CHIKV infection were able to schedule mosquito aspirations. In total, 421 mosquitoes (165 Aedes aegypti and 256 Culex quinquefasciatus ) were captured from 40 households in Salinas city (MG) and tested for the Dengue, Zika, and Chikungunya viruses through RT-qPCR. Twelve of 57 pools (10 Ae. aegypti and two Cx. quinquefasciatus ) tested positive for CHIKV RNA. Viral RNA was also detected in the heads of nine Ae. aegypti , indicating viral dissemination but not in Cx. quinquefasciatus . Genome sequencing yielded the first near-complete genome from the 2023 outbreak, unveiling that the CHIKV strain belonged to the East/Central/South African (ECSA) genotype. Additionally, genetic analyses revealed high frequencies of kdr alleles, including in CHIKV-infected mosquitoes, suggesting resistance to pyrethroid insecticides in this Ae. aegypti population. Social media was important for guiding mosquito-capture efforts in CHIKV transmission hotspots, thus optimizing the opportunity for viral detection. These findings emphasize the urgent need for innovative vector studies and control strategies, as well as interdisciplinary approaches in public health interventions.

This study assessed the effects of hydroxytyrosol (HT) on 8- to 20-day-old broilers challenged with lipopolysaccharide (LPS); 180 Cobb500™ male chicks were randomly assigned to 3 treatment groups, each comprising 10 replicates with 6 birds per replicate. Treatments included a control diet (CON), CON with LPS administration, and CON + LPS supplemented with 10 mg of HT/kg of feed. LPS was administered intraperitoneally on days 14, 16, 18, and 20. Body weight (BW), body weight gain (BWG), and the feed conversion ratio (FCR) were measured. On day 20, ten birds per treatment were slaughtered for analysis. Bursa, spleen, and liver were collected, and their respective relative weight was determined. The jejunum was destined for morphological analyses of villus height (VH), crypt depth (CD), and their ratio (VH:CD), and for mRNA expression of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and interleukins 10 (IL-10), 1 beta (IL-1β), and 8 (IL-8). HT improved BW, BWG, and FCR, and reduced crypt depth (CD) while increasing the VH:CD ratio in the jejunum. Moreover, HT downregulated mRNA expression of CAT, GPx, IL-10, and IL-1β. In conclusion, HT enhances broiler growth performance, mitigates jejunal mucosa damage from LPS, and modulates antioxidant and immune responses.

This study aimed to characterize 300 Aeromonas spp. strains isolated from 123 ornamental fish of 32 different species presenting with septicemia, skin lesions, and/or eye lesions. Within the 300 strains, 53.0% were identified as A. veronii , 41.3% as A. hydrophila , and 5.7% as A. caviae . Among the six virulence genes investigated, the most frequent were act (90.3%) and aer (79.3%). More than 50% of A. hydrophila strains were positive for all the studied genes. A total of 30 virulence profiles were identified, with the five main profiles identified comprising 75% of strains. Only five strains were negative for all genes and were identified as A. caviae and A. veronii . The antimicrobial susceptibility profile was performed for 234 strains, with sulfonamides presenting more than 50% of the resistance rates. Susceptibility was observed mainly for cephalosporins, aminoglycosides, chloramphenicol and piperacillin-tazobactam. Multidrug resistance was detected in 82.5% of the studied strains, including A. caviae with 100% multidrug resistance, and A. hydrophila with 90.9% multidrug resistance. The SE-AFLP analysis resulted in 66 genotypes of A. hydrophila , 118 genotypes of A. veronii , and 14 genotypes of A. caviae , demonstrating the greater heterogeneity of A. veronii and A. caviae . However, no direct correlation was observed between the genotypes and the strains' origins or virulence and resistance profiles.

The study aimed to evaluate the effects of dietary supplementation of hydroxytyrosol (HT) on performance, fat, and blood parameters of broilers. In total, 960 male chicks were distributed into four treatments groups with 12 replicates with 20 birds per pen, with varying HT levels (0, 5, 10, and 50 mg/kg of feed) added to the basal diet from 1 to 42 days old. Feed intake, body weight gain, and feed conversion ratio were evaluated. Enzymes related to liver injury were evaluated in blood. Fatty acid profile and malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration were determined in the breast meat. Dietary supplementation of HT did not improve broilers' performance ( p > 0.05). Birds fed 50 mg HT/kg had lower AST, ALT, and GGT concentrations ( p ≤ 0.05), whereas broilers fed 5, 10, and 50 mg HT/kg, had lower TBIL concentrations ( p ≤ 0.05). Breast meat of broilers fed 50 mg HT/kg had lower lipid content, saturated fatty acid, unsaturated fatty acids, MDA concentrations ( p ≤ 0.05), and polyunsaturated fatty acids ( p < 0.0001). In summary, supplementation of 5, 10, and 50 mg HT/kg does not improve the performance of broilers, but the dose of 50 mg HT/kg helps the liver against inflammation and improves fat parameters.

Arboviruses cause millions of infections each year; however, only limited options are available for treatment and pharmacological prevention. Mosquitoes are among the most important vectors for the transmission of several pathogens to humans. Despite advances, the sampling, viral detection, and control methods for these insects remain ineffective. Challenges arise with the increase in mosquito populations due to climate change, insecticide resistance, and human interference affecting natural habitats, which contribute to the increasing difficulty in controlling the spread of arboviruses. Therefore, prioritizing arbovirus surveillance is essential for effective epidemic preparedness. In this review, we offer a concise historical account of the discovery and monitoring of arboviruses in mosquitoes, from mosquito capture to viral detection. We then analyzed the advantages and limitations of these traditional methods. Furthermore, we investigated the potential of emerging technologies to address these limitations, including the implementation of next-generation sequencing, paper-based devices, spectroscopic detectors, and synthetic biosensors. We also provide perspectives on recurring issues and areas of interest such as insect-specific viruses., Competing Interests: Declaration of conflicting interestsThe author(s) declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

Metabolism and digestibility trials were performed on broiler chickens to determine 1) nitrogen-corrected apparent metabolizable energy (AMEn) using total excreta collection and 2) standardized ileal amino acid digestibility (SIAAD) using the ileal digesta collection from high-protein dried distillers' grains (HP-DDG) and corn bran with solubles (CBS). The results of the metabolism trial indicated that AMEn values for HP-DDG and CBS were 3,334 kcal/kg and 2,083 kcal/kg on dry matter (DM) basis, respectively. Concerning the HP-DDG, the digestibility trial resulted in the following SIAAD values and digestible concentrations, respectively: 80.33% and 1.09 for Lys, 85.95% and 1.44 for Met + Cys, 75.58% and 1.24 for Thr, 89.58% and 1.66 for Arg, 84.91% and 1.08 for His, 86.37% and 1.35 for Ile, 90.64% and 4.56 for Leu, 85.76% and 1.80 for Val, and 88.67% and 1.90 for Phe. Concerning the CBS, the following SIAAD values and digestible concentrations were measured, respectively: 79.29% and 0.44 for Lys, 89.57% and 0.31 for Met + Cys, 78.89% and 0.40 for Thr, 92.28% and 0.66 for Arg, 87.48% and 0.36 for His, 93.40% and 0.35 for Ile, 92.27% and 1.01 for Leu, 90.97% and 0.51 for Val, and 88.81% and 0.45 for Phe. The digestibility average of CBS is 88.45% for essential amino acids and 85.21% for nonessential amino acids, whereas the digestibility average of HP-DDG is 85.83% for essential amino acids and 83.83% for nonessential amino acids., (Copyright © 2023. Published by Elsevier Inc.)

In recent decades, waves of yellow fever virus (YFV) from the Amazon Rainforest have spread and caused outbreaks in other regions of Brazil, including the Cerrado, a savannah-like biome through which YFV usually moves before arriving at the Atlantic Forest. To identify the vectors involved in the maintenance of the virus in semiarid environments, an entomological survey was conducted after confirmation of yellow fever (YF) epizootics at the peak of the dry season in the Cerrado areas of the state of Minas Gerais. In total, 917 mosquitoes from 13 taxa were collected and tested for the presence of YFV. Interestingly, mosquitoes of the Sabethes genus represented 95% of the diurnal captured specimens, displaying a peak of biting activity never previously recorded, between 4:30 and 5:30 p.m. Molecular analysis identified three YFV-positive pools, two from Sabethes chloropterus -from which near-complete genomes were generated-and one from Sa. albiprivus , whose low viral load prevented sequencing. Sa. chloropterus was considered the primary vector due to the high number of copies of YFV RNA and the high relative abundance detected. Its bionomic characteristics allow its survival in dry places and dry time periods. For the first time in Brazil, Sa. albiprivus was found to be naturally infected with YFV and may have played a role as a secondary vector. Despite its high relative abundance, fewer copies of viral RNA were found, as well as a lower Minimum Infection Rate (MIR). Genomic and phylogeographic analysis showed that the virus clustered in the sub-lineage YFV PA-MG , which circulated in Pará in 2017 and then spread into other regions of the country. The results reported here contribute to the understanding of the epidemiology and mechanisms of YFV dispersion and maintenance, especially in adverse weather conditions. The intense viral circulation, even outside the seasonal period, increases the importance of surveillance and YFV vaccination to protect human populations in affected areas.

Two trials were carried out to assess the effects of different ratios of standardized ileal digestible isoleucine:lysine (SID Ile:Lys) on the growth performance of broiler chickens fed low-protein diets. A total of 1,320 male chickens were distributed in each trial into 6 treatments, with 10 replicates with 22 birds each. A control diet was formulated that satisfied the nutritional requirements of the broilers, and a low-protein diet was formulated with reduced protein content, meeting broiler nutritional requirements, except for the SID Ile levels. Five SID Ile:Lys ratios (56%, 61%, 66%, 71%, and 76%) were obtained by adding l-isoleucine to the low-protein diet. The body weight (BW), body weight gain (BWG), average daily feed intake (ADFI), and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were evaluated from day 1 to day 21 in trial 1, and from day 22 to day 44 in trial 2. ANOVA was performed on the data, and the treatments were compared to the control group using Dunnett's test (P ≤ 0.05). Regression analyses were performed for modeling the variables assessed and the ratios of SID Ile:Lys. There was no significant difference between the treatments on ADFI of birds (P > 0.05). The BW, BWG, and FCR showed a quadratic effect as the SID Ile:Lys ratio increased in low-protein diets in trials 1 and 2 (P ≤ 0.05). In conclusion, the recommended ratio of SID Ile:Lys in low-protein diets for growth performance is around 66% for broiler chickens from 1 to 21 d old and is around 65% for broiler chickens from 22 to 44 d old., (Copyright © 2022 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: In Brazil, the yellow fever virus (YFV) is maintained in a sylvatic cycle involving wild mosquitoes and non-human primates (NHPs). The virus is endemic to the Amazon region; however, waves of epidemic expansion reaching other Brazilian states sporadically occur, eventually causing spillovers to humans., Objectives: To report a surveillance effort that led to the first confirmation of YFV in NHPs in the state of Minas Gerais (MG), Southeast region, in 2021., Methods: A surveillance network was created, encompassing the technology of smartphone applications and coordinated actions of several research institutions and health services to monitor and investigate NHP epizootics., Findings: When alerts were spread through the network, samples from NHPs were collected and YFV infection confirmed by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and genome sequencing at an interval of only 10 days. Near-complete genomes were generated using the Nanopore MinION sequencer. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that viral genomes were related to the South American genotype I, clustering with a genome detected in the Amazon region (state of Pará) in 2017, named YFVPA/MG sub-lineage. Fast YFV confirmation potentialised vaccination campaigns., Main Conclusions: A new YFV introduction was detected in MG 6 years after the beginning of the major outbreak reported in the state (2015-2018). The YFV strain was not related to the sub-lineages previously reported in MG. No human cases have been reported, suggesting the importance of coordinated surveillance of NHPs using available technologies and supporting laboratories to ensure a quick response and implementation of contingency measures to avoid YFV spillover to humans.

Monoacylglycerol acyltransferase 2 (MGAT2) is an important enzyme highly expressed in the human small intestine and liver for the regulation of triglyceride absorption and homeostasis. We report that treatment with BMS-963272, a potent and selective MGAT2 inhibitor, decreased inflammation and fibrosis in CDAHFD and STAM, two murine nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) models. In high-fat-diet-treated cynomolgus monkeys, in contrast to a selective diacylglycerol acyltransferase 1 (DGAT1) inhibitor, BMS-963272 did not cause diarrhea. In a Phase 1 multiple-dose trial of healthy human adults with obesity (NCT04116632), BMS-963272 was safe and well tolerated with no treatment discontinuations due to adverse events. Consistent with the findings in rodent models, BMS-963272 elevated plasma long-chain dicarboxylic acid, indicating robust pharmacodynamic biomarker modulation; increased gut hormones GLP-1 and PYY; and decreased body weight in human subjects. These data suggest MGAT2 inhibition is a promising therapeutic opportunity for NASH, a disease with high unmet medical needs., Competing Interests: Declaration of interests A.V.A., R.A., and S.A.S. were employees of Bristol Myers Squibb when the studies were conducted. All other authors are current employees of Bristol Myers Squibb and have Bristol Myers Squibb stock., (Copyright © 2022 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Two trials were carried out to assess the effects of arginine supplementation through ratios of digestible arginine:lysine on growth performance, skin quality and creatine levels in muscle and serum of broiler chickens fed diets reduced in protein content. A total of 1,540 Cobb500 male chickens were distributed into 7 treatments, with 10 replicates with 22 birds each. The experimental diets were based on corn and soybean meal, and a control diet was formulated to satisfy broiler nutritional requirements. A basal diet with reduced protein content was formulated to meet broiler nutritional requirements, except for SID Arg levels. The experimental diets were obtained by adding L-arginine to basal diets, meeting 6 different SID Arg:Lys ratios (94, 100, 106, 112, 118, and 124%). Body weight, body weight gain, average daily feed intake, and feed conversion ratio were evaluated from 01 to 21 d old (trial 1) and from 22 to 44 d old (trial 2). At 21 and 44 d, in trials 1 and 2, respectively, birds were slaughtered to assess skin thickness (ST), skin strength (SS), creatine level in muscle (CRM) and serum (CRS). Data were subjected to ANOVA, and treatments were compared to the control group by Dunnett's test (P ≤ 0.05). Regression analyses were performed to model the variables assessed and the ratios of SID Arg:Lys. The SID Arg:Lys ratios did not affect ADFI of broilers in both trials (P > 0.05), whereas it linearly increased the BW, BWG, and ST, in both trials (P < 0.001). The FCR of broilers linearly decreased, in trial 1 (P = 0.038) and trial 2 (P < 0.001). The CRM of birds had a linear effect (P < 0.001) in trial 1, and a quadratic effect (P = 0.001) in trial 2. The CRS and SS of broilers linearly increased, in trial 2 (P < 0.001). In conclusion, increasing SID Arg:Lys ratios in diets reduced CP enhanced growth performance, skin quality and CR levels in muscle and serum of broiler chickens from 01 to 21 and 22 to 44 d old., (Copyright © 2022 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Incubation temperature is among the main phenotypic trait variation drivers studied since the developmental trajectory of oviparous animals is directly affected by environmental conditions. In the last decades, global warming predictions have aroused interest in understanding its impacts on biodiversity. It is predicted that the effects of direct warming will be exacerbated by other anthropogenic factors, such as microclimatic edge effects. Although the Brazilian Cerrado biome is one of the most affected by these issues, little is known about the aforementioned effects on its biodiversity. Therefore, the aim of our study is to investigate the influence of incubation temperature on developmental parameters, morphology and thermal physiology traits of the collared lizard (Tropidurus torquatus). Furthermore, we discuss our findings regarding lizard developmental biology and the climate change paradigm. Therefore, we incubated T. torquatus eggs under five temperature regimes ranging from artificial nest temperature (28.7 °C) to 35.0 °C. We found that elevated incubation temperatures affect several investigated traits: egg mass gain is positively affected, without any influence in newborn mass; incubation period is broadly reduced with temperature increase; survival rate is negatively affected by temperature, constant 35.0 °C regime is confirmed as a lethal incubation temperature, and the sex ratio is affected at 30.0 °C, with a prevailing outbreak of females. Increased incubation temperature also affects body and head size but has no effect on limb size. Newborn thermoregulation and the critical thermal maximum (CT max ) are not affected by incubation temperature. On the other hand, basal body temperature (T bb ) and the critical thermal minimum (CT min ) were positively affected. Thermal physiology was also affected by age, with newborns differing from adults for all analyzed thermal traits. Our findings indicate that future modifications in incubation temperature regimes at nesting sites caused by warming may affect several features of the development, morphology, and thermal physiology of newborns of this species. Laboratory experiments have pointed to possible drastic effects of warming on lizard survival rates, also affecting aspects of its natural history and population distribution. Moreover, in addition to being more vulnerable than adults in aspects such as predation and feeding, T. torquatus newborns are also more vulnerable regarding thermal physiological traits., (© 2022. The Author(s).)

The genus Orthopoxvirus (OPXV) of the family Poxviridae comprises several viruses that are capable of infecting a wide range of hosts. One of the most widespread OPXVs is the Vaccinia virus (VACV), which circulates in zoonotic cycles in South America, especially in Brazil, infecting domestic and wild animals and humans and causing economic losses as well as impacting public health. Despite this, little is known about the presence and/or exposure of neotropical primates to orthopoxviruses in the country. In this study, we report the results of a search for evidence of OPVX infections in neotropical free-living primates in the state of Minas Gerais, southeast Brazil. The sera or liver tissues of 63 neotropical primates were examined through plaque reduction neutralization tests (PRNT) and real-time PCR. OPXV-specific neutralizing antibodies were detected in two sera (4.5%) from Callithrix penicillata , showing 55% and 85% reduction in plaque counts, evidencing their previous exposure to the virus. Both individuals were collected in urban areas. All real-time PCR assays were negative. This is the first time that evidence of OPXV exposure has been detected in C. penicillata , a species that usually lives at the interface between cities and forests, increasing risks of zoonotic transmissions through spillover/spillback events. In this way, studies on the circulation of OPXV in neotropical free-living primates are necessary, especially now, with the monkeypox virus being detected in new regions of the planet.

In 2019, a new coronavirus disease (COVID-19) was detected in China. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) was capable to infect domestic and captive mammals like cats, tigers and minks. Due to genetic similarities, concern about the infection of non-human primates (NHPs) and the establishment of a sylvatic cycle has grown in the Americas. In this study, neotropical primates (NP) were sampled in different areas from Brazil to investigate whether they were infected by SARS-CoV-2. A total of 89 samples from 51 NP of four species were examined. No positive samples were detected via RT-qPCR, regardless of the NHP species, tissue or habitat tested. This work provides the first report on the lack of evidence of the circulation of SARS-CoV-2 in NP. The expansion of wild animals sampling is necessary to understand their role in the epidemiology of SARS-CoV-2 and other potentially zoonotic pathogens in natural environments shared by humans., (© 2021. EcoHealth Alliance.)

The 2021 re-emergence of yellow fever in non-human primates in the state of Rio Grande do Sul (RS), southernmost Brazil, resulted in the death of many howler monkeys (genus Alouatta ) and led the state to declare a Public Health Emergency of State Importance, despite no human cases reported. In this study, near-complete genomes of yellow fever virus (YFV) recovered from the outbreak were sequenced and examined aiming at a better understanding of the phylogenetic relationships and the spatio-temporal dynamics of the virus distribution. Our results suggest that the most likely sequence of events involved the reintroduction of YFV from the state of São Paulo to RS through the states of Paraná and Santa Catarina, by the end of 2020. These findings reinforce the role of genomic surveillance in determining the pathways of distribution of the virus and in providing references for the implementation of preventive measures for populations in high risk areas.

Bacterial diseases are common in ornamental fish, more frequently associated with ubiquitous bacteria from the aquarium environment. The disease can lead to fish mortality and cause high economic losses if not rapidly controlled. The aim of this study was to identify the main causative bacterial agents of infection in ornamental fish with different clinical signs. A total of 126 freshwater fish, from 12 families and 38 species, with clinical signs were collected in a wholesaler in São Paulo, SP, Brazil. Samples were taken from the eye, skin ulcers, kidneys, and gills, plated on MacConkey, CHROMagar Orientation, and blood agar and incubated under aerobic and anaerobic conditions. Bacterial identification was performed by MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry. From the 126 studied animals, 112 were positive for bacterial isolation. Among the positive animals, 32.1% presented infection caused by a single bacterial species, while in the remaining 67.9%, two to six different bacterial species were identified. A total of 259 bacterial strains were obtained and classified among 46 bacterial species. The species of higher frequency were Aeromonas veronii (26.3%), Aeromonas hydrophilla (16.2%), Shewanella putrefaciens (7.3%), Citrobacter freundii (8.1%), Vibrio albensis (5.8%), and Klebsiella pneumoniae (4.2%). MALDI-TOF MS showed to be a rapid method for diagnosis of bacterial disease outbreaks in ornamental fish establishments.

In the type II diabetes mellitus, Metformin hydrochloride is recommended as a common FAD approved drug. Synthesis of novel metformin series has been widely explored, mainly due to its biological importance and to improve their pharmacokinetic profile. Generally, human serum albumin (HSA) is the main protein used to study drug viability in vitro analysis. Thus, the present study reports the synthesis of three new halogenated metformin derivatives (MFCl, MFBr and MFCF 3 ) and its interaction toward HSA by multiple spectroscopic techniques (UV-Vis, circular dichroism, steady-state, time-resolved and synchronous fluorescence), combined to computational methods (molecular docking and quantum chemical calculation). The interaction between each halogenated metformin derivative and HSA is spontaneous ( ΔG °<0), entropically driven ( ΔS °>0), moderate ( K a and K b ≈ 10 4 M -1 ) and occurs preferentially in the subdomain IIA (close to Trp-214 residue). Molecular docking results suggested hydrogen bonding, van der Waals and hydrophobic interactions as the main binding forces. Quantum chemical calculations suggested imino groups as the most intense electrostatic negative potentials, while the positive electrostatic potential is located at the hydrogen atoms on N , N -dimethyl and the phenyl systems which can help the hydrophobic interactions. [Formula: see text]Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Slow slip events (SSEs) accommodate a significant proportion of tectonic plate motion at subduction zones, yet little is known about the faults that actually host them. The shallow depth (<2 km) of well-documented SSEs at the Hikurangi subduction zone offshore New Zealand offers a unique opportunity to link geophysical imaging of the subduction zone with direct access to incoming material that represents the megathrust fault rocks hosting slow slip. Two recent International Ocean Discovery Program Expeditions sampled this incoming material before it is entrained immediately down-dip along the shallow plate interface. Drilling results, tied to regional seismic reflection images, reveal heterogeneous lithologies with highly variable physical properties entering the SSE source region. These observations suggest that SSEs and associated slow earthquake phenomena are promoted by lithological, mechanical, and frictional heterogeneity within the fault zone, enhanced by geometric complexity associated with subduction of rough crust., (Copyright © 2020 The Authors, some rights reserved; exclusive licensee American Association for the Advancement of Science. No claim to original U.S. Government Works. Distributed under a Creative Commons Attribution NonCommercial License 4.0 (CC BY-NC).)

Scuticociliatosis, caused by an opportunistic ciliate protozoan, is responsible for significant economic losses in marine ornamental fish. This study reports the occurrence of Uronema spp., parasitizing ten species of marine reef fish at an ornamental fish wholesaler: Blue green damselfish (Chromis viridis), Vanderbilt's Chromis (Chromis vanderbilti), Pennant coralfish (Heniochus acuminatus), Threespot angelfish (Apolemichthys trimaculatus), Goldspotted angelfish (Apolemichthys xanthopunctatus), Sea goldie (Pseudanthias squamipinnis), Orchid dottyback (Pseudochromis fridmani), Threadfin butterflyfish (Chaetodon auriga), Vagabond butterflyfish (Chaetodon vagabundus), and Bluecheek butterflyfish (Chaetodon semilarvatus). Diseased fish showed disorders such as hemorrhages and ulcerative lesions on the body surface. Histopathological analysis of the muscle, liver, gut, kidney, spleen, gills, and stomach revealed hemorrhages and degeneration of muscle fiber, vacuolar degeneration of hepatocyte, inflammatory process and granuloma in the liver, atrophy of intestinal villi, inflammatory process and granuloma in the kidney, melanomacrophage centers, as well as inflammatory process in the spleen, epithelial cells hyperplasia and granuloma formation in the gills, and vacuolar degeneration and eosinophils in the stomach. Due to the severity of the disease, it is necessary to implement biosecurity measures with rapid and accurate diagnosis to minimize the risk of economic losses caused by Uronema spp.

Streptococcus suis remains an important challenge for the worldwide swine industry. Considering that Brazil is a major pork producer and exporter, proper monitoring of the pathogen and resistance rates are required. We present here the characterization of Brazilian S. suis strains isolated over a 15 year period by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) typing, capsular, virulence, and antimicrobial resistance profiling. Serotype prevalence revealed a predominance of serotype 2/½ followed by 3, 7, 1/14, 6, 8, 18, 28, and 27; the latter had not yet been reported in Brazil. Resistance profiling enabled the differentiation of nine profiles presenting resistance to three and up to eight antimicrobial classes. Even though an association between the most resistant strains and isolation year starting from 2009 was observed, a high frequency of multidrug-resistant strains isolated from 2001 to 2003 was also detected. This suggests that despite the isolation period, S. suis strains already presented high resistance selection pressure. A slight association of serotype 2/½ with some virulence profiles and PFGE pulsotypes was also identified. Nevertheless, no clonal dispersion or persistency of clones over the analyzed years and herds was detected.

Brazilian poultry meat samples were screened for colistin-resistant Salmonella enterica. Sixty Salmonella isolates were tested for in vitro colistin resistance and mcr-1, mcr-2, mcr-3 and mcr-4 genes. Two isolates harbored the mcr-1 gene and whole-genome analysis determined the serovar to be Schwarzengrund, ST96, harboring the IncX4 plasmid. This is the first report of mcr-1-harboring Salmonella enterica serovar Schwarzengrund in Brazil., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Urinary tract infections (UTI) are considered one of the most important diseases of sows due to its close relationship with reproductive problems such as reduced litter size, increase in the rate of return to estrous, vulvar discharge, abortion, mastitis and anestrus. Actinobaculum suis is one of the main agents involved in porcine urinary tract infection and is responsible for the most severe and fatal cases in sows. In the present report, 23 A. suis strains isolated from a sow and boars in Brazil were identified by PCR and further characterized by broth microdilution, molecular typing by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE), single-enzyme amplified fragment length polymorphism (SE-AFLP), and whole-genome sequencing. All strains were sensitive to ceftiofur, linezolid, nitrofurantoin, quinupristin-dalfopristin and vancomycin. Ciprofloxacin, daptomycin, lincomycin, erythromycin and tylosin resistance was observed in 100% of tested strains. Tetracycline and tigecycline also presented high resistance rates (87% and 30.4%, respectively). PFGE with eight different restriction enzymes and three programs did not enable strain characterization; however, all strains were typed by SE-AFLP that clustered strains according to their origin, thus proving an effective tool for A. suis genotyping. Whole-genome sequencing and comparative analysis enabled species differentiation from closely related genus. This is the first report of genomic characterization of A. suis., (Copyright © 2019 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Background: Urinary tract infections (UTI) cause severe losses to the swine industry worldwide and uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) are the main agent isolated from UTI in sows., Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the virulence genes, assess the phylogenetic background, clonal diversity, and the pattern of resistance to antimicrobials in 186 isolates of UPEC isolated from sows in Brazil., Materials and Methods: Urine samples from 300 sows of three herds with clinical signs from São Paulo State (Brazil) were screened for UTI; samples with suggestive results were submitted to bacterial isolation. E. coli strains isolated were characterized using disk diffusion technique, polymerase chain reaction and Single-enzyme amplification fragment length polymorphism (SE-AFLP)., Results: Virulence genes focH and papC were present in 78.5% and 58% of strains, respectively, followed by cnf1 (23.2%), afa (13.4%), sfa (11.3%), iucD (6.9%), and hlyA (1.6%). No clonal relatedness was found by SE-AFLP. A total of 98% of isolates (182/186) were multidrug resistant, and the highest levels of resistance were to sulfonamides, tetracycline, florfenicol, and ampicillin. Isolates were classified in phylogenetic group B1 (34.4%), followed by D (33.9%), E (30.1%) and A (1.6%)., Conclusions: The data obtained suggest that pigs from clinically affected herds may serve as a reservoir of uropathogenic and multidrug-resistant E. coli strains.

Leptospira interrogans serovar Pomona is one of the most important serovars associated with worldwide porcine leptospirosis, and its infection is characterized by high antibody titers and the establishment of a renal carrier state. Here, we present the draft genome sequence of Leptospira interrogans serovar Pomona strain GR5 isolated from apparently healthy gilt in Brazil., (Copyright © 2018 Moreno et al.)

Background: The presence of lymphoma in buffaloes was first reported in India in the 1960s. The disease is similar to Enzootic Bovine Leucosis (EBL) caused by Bovine leukemia virus (BLV) in cattle; however, according to our results and those of other studies, the etiology of these lymphomas in buffalo do not appear to be associated with BLV. The objectives of this study are to describe four cases of the disease in buffaloes belonging to the same herd in the Amazon region of Brazil and to perform a clinical-anatomopathological, immunohistochemical, and etiological study of the lymphomas., Results: Over a period of ten years, four buffaloes were observed presenting progressive weight loss, swelling of peripheral lymph nodes, and nodules in the subcutaneous tissue. Upon necropsy, whitish-colored tumor masses were observed in the form of nodules in the subcutaneous tissue, along with miliary nodules on the serosal surfaces of abdominal and thoracic organs and tumors in lymph nodes and other organs. Neoplastic lymphocyte proliferation was observed through histopathology. An immunohistochemical study revealed that the neoplasias were formed by proliferation of predominantly B lymphocytes. The presence of BLV genome was not detected in the lymphomas when using the real-time PCR technique, nor was it detected through immunohistochemical staining using monoclonal antibodies against two viral proteins. Bovine herpesvirus 6 was not detected in the tumors. However, Bovine immunodeficiency virus (BIV) was detected in samples of lymphoma and in the lymph nodes and kidneys of one of the animals., Conclusions: The occurrence of lymphoma in buffaloes is reported for the first time in Brazil and is characterized by B-cell multicentric lymphoma. The etiology of the disease does not appear to be associated with BLV; however, the detection of BIV in samples of lymphoma from one sick animal deserves further study, considering the oncogenic potential of this virus.

Enzootic bovine leucosis is an infectious disease caused by Bovine leukemia virus (BLV) and is well described in bovines. The majority of infected animals are asymptomatic, one to five percent develop lymphoma and from 30 to 50% present a persistent lymphocytosis. The virus occurs naturally in cattle and experimentally in buffaloes, capybaras and rabbits. The occurrence of lymphoma in buffaloes has been attributed to BLV infection by some authors in India and Venezuela, but not confirmed by other studies and little information on natural BLV infection in buffaloes is available. The aim of this study was to evaluate the occurrence of BLV in a sub-sample of buffalo from Amazon and southeast regions in Brazil. Three hundred and fifteen serum samples were negative using commercial AGID and ELISA (ELISA-gp51) which detect anti-BLV glycoprotein gp51 antibodies. The same samples were also evaluated for antibodies to whole virus through a commercial ELISA (ELISA-BLV) in which 77 (24.44%) were found seropositive and two (0.63%) inconclusive. On the other hand, all animals were negative by PCR to BLV targeted to the env and tax genes. These results suggest that ELISA-BLV produces false positive results in buffalo serum (p<0.001). In addition, one buffalo lymphoma sample was negative in both PCR assays used in this study. BLV was not detected in buffaloes from the Amazon basin and the southeast region of Brazil. Serological tests, like ELISA-BLV, usually used for cattle may produce false-positive results for BLV in buffaloes and direct detection tests such as PCR should be chosen in these surveys. The occurrence of lymphoma in buffalo was not associated with BLV infection in the one case analyzed in this work and the etiology and pathogenesis of this disease should be clarified., (Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

In Brazil, serologic evidence of Orthopoxvirus (OPV) circulation showed positivity around 20% in cattle, humans, monkeys and rodents. Although OPV seropositivity has been described in buffalo herds in southeastern Brazil, no Vaccinia virus (VACV) (member of genus OPV) outbreaks in buffalo herds have been described in this country. This study aimed to investigate the detection of anti-OPV antibodies and to study the OPV genome in Brazilian buffalo herds. Our results demonstrated a high OPV seropositivity in buffalo herds on Marajó Island and molecular data confirmed the circulation of VACV. The geographical isolation conditionmight be a sine qua non condition to explain our results., (Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

Lutjanid species exhibit multiple spawning behaviour during an extended spawning season in warm months, asynchronous oocyte development and indeterminate fecundity. Although early studies have contributed to knowledge of the reproductive cycle of many species within the group, they have not considered aspects about the number of cortical alveoli oocyte stage throughout maturity phases along spawning season. The latter aspect is also considered very important to confirm indeterminate fecundity hypothesis. In the present study, were analyzed 154 Brazilian snapper Lutjanus alexandrei female gonads obtained from artisanal fisheries in Pernambuco State (Brazil) between October 2010 and March 2011. Were measured oocyte size frequency distribution for maturity phases (developing, spawning capable and actively spawning), and oocyte development stage (unyolked oocytes, cortical alveoli, primary, secondary and tertiary vitellogenic oocytes and hydrated oocytes), and also the oocyte stage frequency during spawning season. The frequency of cortical alveoli oocyte stage was constantly found in the spawning period (>37%), showing slight variation throughout maturity phases. The absence of gap in the oocyte size frequency distribution between primary and secondary oocyte growth stages during spawning season is a strong indicator of continuous oocyte recruitment from reserve stocks. In addition, co-occurrence of tertiary vitellogenic oocytes, hydrated oocytes, post-ovulatory follicles and yellow-brown bodies in the histological sections of ovaries reinforce indeterminate fecundity hypothesis.

Context: Natural compounds have been widely studied with the aim of complementing antiophidic serum therapy., Objective: The present study evaluated the inhibitory potential of ascorbic acid and a vitamin complex, composed of ascorbic acid, vitamin E, and all the B-complex vitamins, on the biological activities induced by snake venoms., Material and Methods: The effect of vitamins was evaluated on the phospholipase, proteolytic, coagulant, and fibrinogenolytic activities induced by Bothrops moojeni (Viperidae), B. jararacussu, and B. alternatus snake venoms, and the hemagglutinating activity induced by B. jararacussu venom., Results: The vitamin complex (1:5 and 1:10 ratios) totally inhibited the fibrinogenolytic activity and partially the phospholipase activity and proteolytic activity on azocasein induced by the evaluated venoms. Significant inhibition was observed in the coagulation of human plasma induced by venoms from B. alternatus (1:2.5 and 1:5, to vitamin complex and ascorbic acid) and B. moojeni (1:2.5 and 1:5, to vitamin complex and ascorbic acid). Ascorbic acid inhibited 100% of the proteolytic activities of B. moojeni and B. alternatus on azocasein, at 1:10 ratio, the effects of all the venoms on fibrinogen, the hemagglutinating activity of B. jararacussu venom, and also extended the plasma coagulation time induced by all venoms analyzed., Discussion and Conclusion: The vitamins analyzed showed relevant in vitro inhibitory potential over the activities induced by Bothrops venoms, suggesting their interaction with toxins belonging to the phospholipase A2, protease, and lectin classes. The results can aid further research in clarifying the possible mechanisms of interaction between vitamins and snake enzymes.

The enzyme inhibition by natural and/ or low-cost compounds may represent a valuable adjunct to traditional serotherapy performed in cases of snakebite, mainly with a view to mitigate the local effects of envenoming. The objective of this study was to evaluate possible interactions between vitamins and enzymes that comprise Bothrops atrox and Crotalus durissus terrificus venoms, in vitro. Proteolysis inhibition assays (substrates: azocasein, collagen, gelatin and fibrinogen), hemolysis, coagulation, hemagglutination were carried out using different proportions of vitamins in face of to inhibit minimum effective dose of each venom. The vitamins were responsible for reducing 100% of breaking azocasein by C.d.t. venom, thrombolysis induced by B. atrox and fibrinogenolysis induced by both venoms. It is suggested the presence of interactions between vitamin and the active site of enzymes, for example the interactions between hydrophobic regions present in the enzymes and vitamin E, as well as the inhibitions exercised by antioxidant mechanism.

Bovine immunodeficiency is a chronic progressive disease caused by a lentivirus that affects cattle and buffaloes. Although the infection has been described in cattle in some countries, including in Brazil, there are only two reports of infection in buffaloes: one in Pakistan and one in Cambodia. The aim of the present study was to survey the occurrence of bovine immunodeficiency virus (BIV) in water buffaloes from the Amazon region, Pará state, Brazil. BIV proviral DNA was surveyed in 607 whole blood samples of water buffaloes from 10 farms located in the state of Pará using semi-nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) (PCR-SN) to amplify the pol region of the viral genome. Of the 607 samples tested, 27 (4.4 %) were positive for BIV proviral DNA. The amplified fragments were confirmed by sequence analysis after cloning and nucleotide sequencing. The sequence obtained had 99 % similarity to the reference strain (R-29). The present study provides important epidemiological data because BIV was detected for the first time in water buffaloes in Brazil. Further, the results suggest the possibility of the virus being a risk factor for herd health because it may be a potential causal agent of chronic disease and, also may be associated to other infectious diseases.

Diet can influence both the qualitative and quantitative traits of ruminant meat. This study evaluated the effects of castor de-oiled cake on the meat of mixed-breed male goat kids. After 165days of diet treatment, no alterations (p>0.05) were observed in the in vivo performance, anatomic components, dissection and proximate composition of the Longissimus dorsi muscle, as well as in the color and pH of the carcasses. However, diet had an effect (p<0.05) on energy metabolites, fatty acid profile, and expression of certain proteins of the Longissimus dorsi muscle. To conclude, this study showed that the establishment of castor de-oiled cake diet for a long period to goats led to alterations in meat quality, without compromising its consumption qualities., (Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

The present study was conducted to evaluate the effect of de-oiled castor cake on reproductive traits of crossbreed goats. Fourteen males were grouped into two lots (n = 7/group), as described: group without de-oiled castor cake (WCC) and group fed with de-oiled castor cake (CC). Goats received two diets containing a mixture of Bermudagrass hay and concentrates with the same energy (73% total digestive nutrients) and protein content (15% crude protein) during 150 days, corresponding to ages from 40 (puberty) to 60 weeks. Blood plasma concentrations of urea, albumin, lactate dehydrogenase, creatinine, alanine aminotransferase and testosterone were determined. We also evaluated scrotal circumference, sperm parameters, quantitative aspects of spermatogenesis and daily sperm production (DSP), as well as the proteome of seminal plasma and sperm membrane. Seminal fluid and sperm proteins were analyzed by 2D SDS-PAGE and mass spectrometry. After 150 days of castor cake feeding, animals had no changes in the biochemical composition of blood plasma, suggesting the absence of intoxication by ingestion of ricin. There were no alterations in dry mater intake, weight gain, testis size, peripheral concentrations of testosterone, sperm concentration, motility and morphology. Sertoli and germ cell populations in the testis and DSP were not affected either. However, there were significant variations in the expression of five seminal plasma proteins and four sperm membrane proteins. In conclusion, the replacement of soybean meal by castor cake (with ricin concentrations of 50mg/kg) did not interfere with the growth and core reproductive development of male goats. However, the diet with ricin altered the expression of certain seminal plasma and sperm membrane proteins, which play roles in sperm function and fertilization. Lower expression of these proteins may impair the ricin-fed animals to perform as high-fertility sires., (Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

This study presents the first description of Bovine herpesvirus 6 (BoHV-6) that was isolated from buffaloes of Amazon region in Brazil. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the BoHV-6 Brazilian strains clustered with the sequence of BoHV-6 from elsewhere available at the GenBank. It was observed in some buffaloes with lymphoproliferative disease in one herd, thus the animals were also tested for Bovine leukemia virus (BLV), which has been associated to lymphoma in bovines. All animals were negative to BLV. These results indicate that BoHV-6 is present in buffaloes in Brazil, but the importance and impact of this infection and its association with any illness is still undefined.

Purpose: We evaluated the hypothesis that induced perioperative hypothermia (32 ± 1ºC) affects the redox balance in the tissue of colonic anastomosis in rats by modifying biochemical enzymatic and non-enzymatic markers related to oxidative stress., Methods: Forty-eight male Wistar rats were randomly divided into eight experimental groups of six animals each and underwent laparotomy, sigmoid section and immediate anastomosis. Four groups were operated under normothermia (36 ± 1ºC), and the other four under hypothermia (32 ± 1ºC). The animals were reoperated on days 3, 7 and 14 postoperatively, and two groups underwent SHAM at 3 days. From the scar tissue samples, the activity of the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) was evaluated, and the levels of non-enzymatic markers of oxidative stress, such as reduced glutathione (GSH) and lipid peroxidation, were measured by the thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) assay. The means were compared between groups corresponding to each day of sampling and euthanasia., Results: The hypothermic groups showed a significant reduction on the activity of SOD on day 7 postoperatively, on the activity of CAT on days 7 and 14 postoperatively and on the levels of GSH on day 7 postoperatively. The level of lipid peroxidation was increased in the hypothermia group on day 7 postoperatively and decreased on day 14 compared with the normothermic groups., Conclusion: Perioperative hypothermia reduced the activity of the antioxidant enzymes catalase and superoxide dismutase, glutathione levels and increased lipid peroxidation in the scar tissue of colonic anastomoses in rats.

Lipid-rich and energy-dense diets can have significant effects on the reproductive physiology, including the ovarian function and fertility. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of cashew nut bran supplementation as a lipid source on follicle development, plasma and intrafollicular concentrations of cholesterol, and developmental competence of in vitro-matured goat oocytes. The inclusion of cashew nut bran as 24% of the goats' diet for 28 days increased the percentage and number of degenerated oocytes compared with the control (P < 0.05), and also the plasma cholesterol levels and the proportion of grade IV oocytes compared with all other treatments (P < 0.05). Moreover, a significant reduction was observed in the proportion of viable oocytes compared with the control and in the percentage of grade II oocytes compared with all other treatments (P < 0.05). Oocyte maturation, cleavage, and blastocyst rates after parthenogenetic activation of viable oocytes were not affected by the type of diet. In conclusion, the inclusion of cashew nut bran as 24% of the diet of adult goats for 28 days changed plasma cholesterol levels and reduced the proportion of viable immature oocytes; however, the 12% and 24% diet supplementations with cashew nut bran did not interfere with competence of resulting viable oocytes to reach the metaphase II stage after IVM, and to develop after parthenogenetic activation., (Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

The aim of this study was to determine whether the consumption of detoxified castor meal (DCM) by goats over a long period of time affects mRNA levels in oocytes, and in mural granulosa and cumulus cells. A total of 41 adult does were supplemented (DCM group, n=21) or not (control group, n=20) with detoxified castor meal (DCM) for a period of 500 days. Then, 13 and 12 does were randomly selected for slaughter from the DCM and control treatments groups, respectively, for the determination of the number of visible ovarian follicles, retrieved cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs), and viable and non-viable oocytes. The relative expression levels for distinct genes were determined by quantitative PCR in viable immature oocytes prior to in vitro maturation (IVM), in oocytes attaining or not the metaphase stage after IVM, as well as in granulosa cells obtained upon oocyte collection, and in cumulus cells obtained after IVM. The number of follicles ≥4 mm did not differ between treatments (overall mean 23.3 ± 2.0) and no significant differences were observed in the recovery of viable, non-viable, or total mean numbers of oocytes (control group: 44.7 ± 4.6, DCM group: 54.9 ± 5.9, respectively) between control and DCM fed goats. The maturation rate was significantly higher for control than DCM oocytes (58.0% vs. 45.3%; P<0.05). The mRNA levels in immature COC for controls were significantly higher for GLUT1 and lower for HSP70 (P<0.05) than for DCM. Following maturation, MII oocytes from both treatments had mRNA levels that were significantly higher for GDF9 and lower for BMP15 than for NC oocytes (P<0.05). In cumulus cells, the mRNA levels were significantly higher for LHR, FSHR, LeptinR, and IGF1, and lower for MnSOD in the control group compared with the DCM group (P<0.05). In conclusion, the inclusion of DCM in goat feed for long periods of time changed gene expression in immature oocytes and in cumulus cells. This was reflected by a decrease in the in vitro oocyte maturation rate., (Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier B.V.)

In 2010, vaccinia virus caused an outbreak of bovine vaccinia that affected dairy cattle and rural workers in Pará State, Brazil. Genetic analyses identified the virus as distinct from BeAn58058 vaccinia virus (identified in 1960s) and from smallpox vaccine virus strains. These findings suggest spread of autochthonous group 1 vaccinia virus in this region.

The aim of this paper is to report the study of hepatogenous photosensitization in buffaloes during two outbreaks provoked by ingestion of Brachiaria decumbens in Minas Gerais state, Brazil. Ten young buffaloes in outbreak 1 and seven buffaloes in outbreak 2 were intoxicated by B. decumbens. Nine clinically healthy buffaloes raised under the same conditions as the sick animals served as the control group. All animals were subjected to clinical examination, and serum was collected to measure gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), direct bilirubin (DB), indirect bilirubin (IB) and total bilirubin (TB) as indicators of liver function and urea and creatinine as indicators of renal function. Histopathology of liver fragments from five different animals was carried out. During the outbreaks and every two months for one year, samples of grass from paddocks where the animals got sick were collected for quantitative evaluation of the saponin protodioscin, combined with observations of pasture characteristics and daily rainfall. Clinical signs included apathy, weight loss, restlessness, scar retraction of the ears and intense itching at the skin lesions, mainly on the rump, the tail head, neck and hindlimbs, similar to the signs observed in other ruminants. Only the GGT enzyme presented significantly different (P < 0.01) serum levels between intoxicated animals (n = 17) and healthy animals (n = 9), indicating liver damage in buffaloes bred in B. decumbens pastures. Microscopy of the liver showed foamy macrophages and lesions of liver disease associated with the presence of crystals in the bile ducts, which have also been found in sheep and cattle poisoned by grasses of the genus Brachiaria. During the outbreaks, protodioscin levels were higher than 3%, and shortly after, these levels were reduced to less than 0.80%, suggesting a hepatic injury etiology. The outbreaks took place at the beginning of the rainy season, and there was a positive correlation between saponin and the amount of rainfall, as well as between saponin and the amount of green leaves in the pasture. These findings indicate that the grass was more toxic in this period. This is the first report of photosensitization by B. decumbens in buffalo., (Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Objective: We evaluated the hypothesis that induced perioperative hypothermia in rats causes adverse effects on the healing of colonic anastomosis., Materials and Methods: Forty-eight Wistar rats were divided into eight groups of six animals that underwent laparotomy, sigmoid section, and anastomosis. Four groups were operated under normothermic conditions (36 ± 1 °C) and four under hypothermic conditions (32 ± 1 °C). The reoperations were performed on days 3, 7, and 14 post-surgery, and two groups where SHAM reoperated on day 3. We evaluated anastomotic bursting pressure and tissue hydroxyproline content; performed a histological analysis of inflammatory parameters and healing (inflammatory cell infiltrate, edema, fibrin, collagen deposition and apoptotic cells) with categorization scores = 0, 1, 2, 3; and examined the relative quantification gene expression (cDNA) of inflammatory cytokines [interleukin 1 (IL-1), interleukin 6 (IL-6), and interleukin 10 (IL-10)] and growth factors [vascular endothelial growth factor and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1)] by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction., Results: Both of the hypothermic groups showed lower anastomotic burst pressure on days 7 and 14 post-surgery, reduced hydroxyproline content on day 14, reduction of inflammatory infiltrates and edema at day 3, and less collagen deposition on day 14. In animals that were hypothermic, the cytokine gene expression showed reduced IL-1 on day 3, reduced IL-6 on days 7 and 14, and reduced IL-10 on days 7 and 14 and a reduction in the growth factor IGF-1 on day 7., Conclusion: Perioperative hypothermia had detrimental effects on the healing of colonic anastomosis in rats.

Severe infestation with lice was observed on crossbred cattle (Bos taurus indicus ×Bos taurus taurus) in the municipality of São Domingos do Capim, state of Pará, Brazil. Sixty-five animals were inspected and the lice were manually collected, preserved in 70% alcohol and taken to the Animal Parasitology Laboratory, School of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Pará, Brazil, for identification. The adult lice were identified as Haematopinus quadripertusus, and all the cattle examined were infested by at least one development stage of this ectoparasite. The specimens collected were located only on the tail in 80% (52/65) of the cattle, while they were around the eyes as well as on the ears and tail in 20% (13/65). Nits, nymphs and adults of the parasite were respectively collected from 98.46% (64/65), 38.46% (25/65) and 23.08% (15/65) of the animals examined. This is the first report of bovine pediculosis caused by H. quadripertusus in the state of Pará, Brazil. Further studies should be conducted to determine the occurrence pattern of this species in Brazil and its importance to livestock production.