Ureaplasma diversum-Ureaplasma sp. alone or concomitantly with Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae in pig lungs with and without pneumonia: A descriptive exploratory study in abattoirs / Presencia de Ureaplasma diversum-Ureaplasma sp. solo o junto con Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae en pulmones de cerdos con y sin neumonía: un estudio exploratorio descriptivo en frigorífico

Abstract Occurrence of Ureaplasma diversum (U. diversum) has been associated with repro-ductive failures in cattle and detected in pigs with and without pneumonia. However, its rolein the porcine respiratory disease complex (PRDC) is unclear. A cross-sectional study was con-ducted in abattoirs, inspecting 280 pig lungs from eight herds. All the lungs were inspected,processed and classified according to the histopathological analysis. Moreover, bronchoalveolarlavage (BAL) specimens were collected and processed by PCR for detection of U. diversum andMycoplasma hyopneumoniae (M. hyopneumoniae). Ureaplasma sp.---U. diversum and M. hyop-neumoniae were detected in 17.1% and 29.3% of the analyzed BAL specimens, respectively. Theconcomitant presence of both microorganisms was detected in 12.5% of the inspected lungs.Both agents were found in lungs with and without pneumonia. M. hyopneumoniae was detectedin 31.8% of pig lungs with enzootic pneumonia-like lesions, while Ureaplasma sp.---U. diversumwas detected in 27.5% of lungs with these lesions. This descriptive exploratory study providesinformation for future experimental and field-based studies to better define the pathogenicrole of this organism within the PRDC.

Resumen La presencia de Ureaplasma diversum se ha asociado a fallas reproductivas en el ganado bovino y se ha detectado en cerdos con y sin neumonía. Sin embargo, su participación en el complejo de enfermedades respiratorias porcinas (CERP) no es clara. Se llevó a cabo un estudio transversal en matadero, inspeccionando 280 pulmones de cerdo provenientes de ocho piaras. Todos los pulmones fueron inspeccionados, procesados y clasificados según el análisis histopatológico. También se colectaron muestras de lavado broncoalveolar (LBA) y se procesaron mediante PCR para la detección de U. diversum y Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae. Ureaplasma sp.-U. diversum y M. hyopneumoniae se detectaron en el 17,1% y en el 29,3% de los LBA analizados, respectivamente. La presencia concomitante de ambos microorganismos se detectó en el 12,5% de los pulmones inspeccionados. Ambos agentes se encontraron en pulmones con y sin neumonía. M. hyopneumoniae se detectó en el 31,8% de los pulmones con lesiones compatibles con neumonía enzoótica, mientras que Ureaplasma sp.-U. diversum se detectó en el 27,5% de los pulmones con estas lesiones. Este estudio exploratorio descriptivo proporciona información para futuros estudios experimentales y de campo tendentes a definir mejor el papel patógeno de este organismo dentro del CERP.

An Experimental Study of Oral Mucosal Wound Healing following Scalpel and Diode Laser Incisions in Guinea Pigs: Clinical and Histological Observations

Introduction: The available data regarding scalpel and diode laser incisions wound healing is variable, scarce and needs more clarification especially in normal healthy tissues. Hence, this study was aimed to evaluate clinical and histologic parameters of wound healing with scalpel and diode laser on oral mucosa of Guinea pigs. Materials and Methods: This is an experimental study conducted on four male Guinea pigs. Laser and scalpel incisions were made on the right buccal mucosa of each guinea pig approximately 5mm deep and 10 mm in length and both the incisions were placed 10 mm apart using No#11Bard Parker blades and diode laser (640 wavelength) under general anesthesia. Punch biopsies of both the incisions were obtained and compared for clinical changes such as ease of working, intra-operative bleeding, color and approximation of wound edges and histological changes such as epithelial proliferation, inflammation, angiogenesis, and fibrosis on day 1, 3 and 7. Results: Clinically, scalpel wounds showed better healing than laser wounds although laser incisions provided bloodless surgical field. There was no significant difference in inflammation, angiogenesis and fibrosis between scalpel and diode laser incisions on both day 3 and 7 except for the epithelization which was comparatively early and better in scalpel wounds than the diode laser wounds. Conclusion: Diode lasers provide bloodless surgical field with better visibility than scalpel without any difference in oral mucosal wound healing. Considering the clinical benefits, the diode lasers could be a superior alternative to conventional scalpel technique.

Inhibitory effect of blue light intervention on lens-induced myopia development in guinea pigs and the mechanism of cone density change / 中华实验眼科杂志

Objective:To observe the effects of blue light intervention on the development of optical defocus-induced myopia in guinea pigs and investigate its underlying mechanisms.Methods:Forty-eight normal-grade two-week-old tricolor guinea pigs were randomly divided into a blue light group and a white light group, with 24 animals in each group.The right eye of guinea pigs was fitted with a -5.00 D lens to establish an optical defocus model as the experimental eye, while the left eye served as the control without any covering.Before the experiment and after 8-week intervention, the refractive power of guinea pigs was measured by streak retinoscopy.The anterior chamber depth, lens thickness, and axial length were measured by A-scan ultrasonography.Corneal curvature radius was determined using a keratometer.After 8-week intervention, the guinea pigs were euthanized through overanesthesia, and the right eyeballs were enucleated and the retinas were isolated.The density of S and M cone cells of the guinea pig retinal sections were observed via immunofluorescence staining.The expression of retinal retinoic acid was assessed by high-performance liquid chromatography.The expressions of retinoic acid receptor (RAR-β) in the retina and matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2), tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-2 (TIMP-2), and type Ⅰ collagen in the sclera were detected by real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR.Changes in scleral thickness were observed through hematoxylin-eosin staining.The use and care of the animals complied with Regulations for the Administration of Affair Concerning Experimental Animals by State Science and Technology Commission.The study protocol was approved by the Ethics Committee of Eye and ENT Hospital of Fudan University (No.2022ETKLD10032).Results:After 8 weeks of intervention, guinea pigs in the blue light group showed (0.63±0.12)D of relative hyperopia and a deceleration of axial elongation by (0.08±0.00)mm compared with the white light group in the right eye.In the left eye, guinea pigs in the blue light group showed (0.42±0.09)D of relative hyperopia and a deceleration of axial elongation by (0.08±0.00)mm compared with the white light group.The guinea pigs in blue light group showed (1.52±0.09)D of myopia in the right eye compared with the left eye, with an increase in axial elongation of (0.06±0.00)mm.The guinea pigs in white light group showed (1.66±0.07)D of myopia in the right eye compared with the left eye, with an increase in axial elongation of (0.13±0.00)mm, and the differences were statistically significant (all at P<0.05). The density of M cone cells was lower and density of S cone cells was higher in the blue light group in the dorsal and ventral sides of the retinal sections compared with the white light group, showing statistically significant differences ( t=32.33, 52.23, 42.09, 25.02; all at P<0.05). The deceleration of myopia progression in the blue light group was strongly positively correlated with the increase in S cone cell density on the ventral side ( r=0.95, P<0.01). The expression levels of retinoic acid, RAR-β, and MMP-2 were decreased, and expression levels of TIMP-2 and type Ⅰ collagen were increased in blue light group compared with the white light group, showing statistically significant differences ( t=18.73, 7.45, 3.72, 6.19, 9.03; all at P<0.05). The scleral thickness in the blue light group was (125.0±7.8)μm, which was significantly thicker than (102.0±6.3)μm in the white light group ( t=26.93, P<0.05). Conclusions:Blue light intervention can inhibit the progression of defocus-induced myopia in guinea pigs.Refractive power changes in guinea pigs may be influenced by alterations in retinal cone cell density, retinoic acid expression, and scleral collagen expression.

Digital measurement of corneal curvature and eccentricity of guinea pigs using Python / 中华实验眼科杂志

Objective:To investigate an accurate and quantitative method to measure the eyeball morphological parameters of guinea pigs through a method that combines programmed digital techniques and mathematical geometric principles.Methods:Twenty-two three-week-old clean-grade male tricolor guinea pigs were selected and sacrificed by anesthesia overdose.Eyeballs were enucleated.The horizontal and sagittal images of the eyeball were taken with the high-speed photographic model of 13 million pixels macro meter, and the pictures were imported into pycharm programming software.Using the pre-written analysis program of Python 3.9, the conversion coefficient between the photo pixel and the actual length was obtained by a scale, and then the corneal surface was fitted by arc fitting and conic curve fitting.The results of arc fitting were converted to calculate the corneal radius of curvature.The corneal eccentricity was calculated according to the general conic equation (Ax 2+ Bxy+ Cy 2+ Dx+ Ey+ F=0). The corneal asphericity was evaluated by curve fitting between the central 3-mm and the whole cornea.The use and care of the animals complied with Regulations for the Administration of Affairs Concerning Experimental Animals by State Science and Technology Commission.The study protocol was approved by the Ethics Committee of Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center (No.2022-A009-01). Results:The digital method of Python programming can show the corneal contour of guinea pigs completely and clearly.In the transverse plane, there was no significant difference in the corneal curvature measurements among the digital fitting in central 3-mm cornea, digital fitting in whole cornea and curvature meter ( F=1.693, P=0.190). In the sagittal plane, there was a significant difference in the corneal curvature measurements among the three methods ( F=3.500, P=0.030), and the corneal curvature measurements of the whole cornea measured by the curvature meter were significantly greater than those measured by the digital fitting ( P<0.05). There was no statistical significance in the measurements of corneal curvature radius among the three methods in the transverse plane and the sagittal plane ( F=1.817, P=0.170; F=2.050, P=0.133). The horizontal and sagittal corneal eccentricity measured by digital fitting in central 3-mm cornea were 0.55±0.15 and 0.53±0.17, which were lower than 0.66±0.10 and 0.64±0.14 measured by digital fitting in whole cornea, and the differences were statistically significant ( t=-4.860, -5.210; both at P<0.01). Conclusions:It is feasible to use Python programming digital method to measure the corneal curvature and eccentricity of guinea pigs.

Effect of Dahuang Lingxian prescription on the scf/c-kit signaling pathway in gallbladder interstitial cells of Cajal in a guinea pig model of cholesterol gallstone / 临床肝胆病杂志

Objective To investigate the expression levels of scf and c-kit under the regulation of Dahuang Lingxian prescription and the possible mechanism of its effect on gallbladder dynamics, and to provide a theoretical basis for Dahuang Lingxian prescription in preventing the development and recurrence of cholesterol gallstone. Methods A total of 45 specific pathogen-free healthy male guinea pigs were randomly divided into normal group, model group, and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) group. The guinea pigs in the normal group were fed with normal diet, and those in the model group and the TCM group were fed with high-fat lithogenic diet. After 8 weeks of feeding, 5 guinea pigs were randomly selected from each group, and successful modeling was determined if gallstone was observed with the naked eye in more than 4 guinea pigs. After successful modeling, the guinea pigs in the TCM group were given Dahuang Lingxian prescription by gavage, and those in the model group were given an equal volume of normal saline by gavage. After 8 consecutive weeks of administration by gavage, gallbladder tissue samples were collected, and HE staining was used to observe the pathological changes of gallbladder tissue; Western blot was used to measure the expression level of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in gallbladder tissue; immunohistochemistry was used to measure the protein expression levels of scf and c-kit in gallbladder smooth muscle tissue. A one-way analysis of variance was used for comparison of normally distributed continuous data between multiple groups, and the least significant difference multiple comparison method was used for further comparison between two groups. Results HE staining showed marked inflammation of gallbladder tissue in the model group, and compared with the model group, the TCM group had a significantly lower degree of inflammation. Western blot showed that the model group had the highest expression level of TNF-α in gallbladder tissue, followed by the TCM group and the normal group ( P < 0.05); immunohistochemistry showed that compared with the model group, the normal group and the TCM group had significantly higher protein expression levels of scf and c-kit in gallbladder smooth muscle tissue ( P < 0.05). Conclusion Dahuang Lingxian prescription can enhance the dynamic function of the gallbladder, possibly by upregulating the scf/c-kit signaling pathway in interstitial cells of Cajal in gallbladder.

Molecular epidemiology of Japanese encephalitis in pigs and risk factors associated with causing Japanese encephalitis in pigs of Lakhimpur, the first case reported in the district of North East India

Background & objectives: Japanese encephalitis (JE) is a major public health problem in India. The first outbreaks of JE have been reported from the North-eastern regions of Assam, particularly from the Lakhimpur district of Assam between July–August 1989. In Assam every year many people died due to JE. This study was performed to investigate the molecular epidemiology of JE in pigs in Lakhimpur district of Assam and the risk factors associated with causing Japanese encephalitis in pigs. This study will help to map out the endemic regions and to know where and when to apply the most control strategies towards the prevention and control of the disease. Methods: A total of 342 serum samples from pigs were collected from 10 organized and 20 unorganized farms from 9 blocks and recorded to age, sex and breed and tested by RT-PCR. Pig farms and the surrounding environment were studied for assessment of farm-level risk factors responsible for JEV infection in pigs. Results: Out of 342 samples tested for detection of the E gene of JEV, 14 samples were found to be positive with a prevalence rate of 4.09%. Age, sex and breed-wise higher cases were found in at the age group above 12 months, sex wise female and breed-wise local pigs. Pig farms less than 500 meters from risk factors like rice field, stagnant water source, wild bird exposure to farm and mosquito exposure at farm/ bite to pigs, found to be more numbers of JE cases. Interpretation & conclusion: Molecular epidemiology of JE in pigs, and humans; positive at Lakhimpur recommend the need for uninterrupted surveillance of this virus in pigs specially those areas where pig population is more and all risk factors are present.

Trichophyton benhamiae, un dermatofito zoofílico emergente en Argentina con reservorio en cobayos: descripción de 7 casos en un hospital de la Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires / Trichophyton benhamiae, an emergent zoonotic pathogen in Argentina associated with Guinea pigs: Description of 7 cases in Buenos Aires

Resumen Trichophyton benhamiae es un dermatofito zoofílico. Puede causar tinea corporis, tinea faciei y tinea capitis. Se caracteriza por producir lesiones inflamatorias, sobre todo en niños. El objetivo de esta publicación es describir 7 casos clínicos de pacientes pediátricos atendidos entre julio del 2019 y enero del 2020 en nuestra institución. A los pacientes se les solicitó estudio micológico convencional, con posterior confirmación con MALDI-TOF MS y secuencia-ción del ADN ribosomal. Se aisló e identificó T. benhamiae como agente etiológico; el nexo epidemiológico fue el contacto con cobayos. Estas son las primeras descripciones de infecciones causadas por T. benhamiae en Argentina. Al realizar estudios micológicos convencionales, este agente puede confundirse con otros dermatofitos, por lo tanto, se requieren herramientas como MALDI-TOF MS o la secuenciación para llegar a un diagnóstico definitivo. Es importante contar con datos epidemiológicos, como el contacto con mascotas no tradicionales, para una presunción diagnóstica adecuada.

Trichophyton benhamiae is a zoonotic dermatophyte that can cause tinea corporis, tinea faciei and tinea capitis, producing inflammatory lesions, especially in children. In this publication, we describe 7clinical cases of pediatric patients that occurred in our institution between July 2019 and January 2020. All patients underwent a conventional mycological study. The identification of fungi isolates was confirmed by MALDI-TOF MS and sequencing of the ribosomal DNA. T. benhamiae was identified as the etiological agent, whose epidemiological link in all cases was the contact with Guinea pigs. This is the first description of infections caused by T. benhamiae in Argentina. This dermatophyte can be misidentified as other more frequent dermatophytes when performing conventional studies. Molecular technology should be used to reach a definitive diagnosis. It is important to have epidemiological data from patients such as contact with non-traditional pets, especially Guinea pigs, for an adequate presumptive diagnosis of this dermatophytosis.

Cochlear implantation in an animal model documents cochlear damage at the tip of the implant / Implante coclear em um modelo animal documenta o dano coclear na extremidade do implante

Abstract Introduction: Electrocochleography has recently emerged as a diagnostic tool in cochlear implant surgery, purposing hearing preservation and optimal electrode positioning. Objective: In this experimental study, extra-cochlear potentials were obtained during cochlear implant surgery in guinea pigs. The aim was to determine electrophysiological changes indicating cochlear trauma after cochleostomy and after electrode implantation in different insertion depths. Methods: Normal-hearing guinea pigs (n = 14) were implanted uni- or bilaterally with a multichannel electrode. The extra-cochlear cochlear nerve action potentials were obtained in response to acoustic stimuli at specific frequencies before and after cochleostomy, and after introduction of the electrode bundle. After the electrophysiological experiments, the guinea pigs were euthanized and microtomography was performed, in order to determine the position of the electrode and to calculate of the depth of insertion. Based on the changes of amplitude and thresholds in relation to the stimulus frequency, the electrophysiological data and the position obtained by the microtomography reconstruction were compared. Results: Cochleostomy promoted a small electrophysiological impact, while electrode insertion caused changes in the amplitude of extra-cochlear electrophysiological potentials over a wide range of frequencies, especially in the deepest insertions. There was, however, preservation of the electrical response to low frequency stimuli in most cases, indicating a limited auditory impact in the intraoperative evaluation. The mean insertion depth of the apical electrodes was 5339.56 μm (±306.45 - 6 inserted contacts) and 4447.75 μm (±290.23 - 5 inserted contacts). Conclusions: The main electrophysiological changes observed during surgical procedures occurred during implantation of the electrode, especially the deepest insertions, whereas the cochleostomy disturbed the potentials to a lesser extent. While hearing loss was often observed apical to the cochlear implant, it was possible to preserve low frequencies after insertion. © 2020 Associação Brasileira de Otorrinolaringologia e Cirurgia Cérvico-Facial. Published by Elsevier Editora Ltda. This is an open access article under the CC BY license (http:// creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).

Resumo Introdução: A eletrococleografia surgiu recentemente como uma ferramenta diagnóstica na cirurgia de implante coclear, objetiva a preservação da audição e o posicionamento ideal dos eletrodos. Objetivo: Determinar as alterações eletrofisiológicas indicativas de trauma coclear após a cocleostomia e após o implante do eletrodo em diferentes profundidades de inserção. Método: Neste estudo experimental, potenciais extracocleares foram obtidos durante a cirurgia de implante coclear em cobaias. Cobaias com audição normal (n = 14) foram implantadas uni- ou bilateralmente com eletrodo multicanal. Os potenciais de ação do nervo coclear extracoclear foram obtidos em resposta a estímulos acústicos em frequências específicas antes e após a cocleostomia e após a introdução do feixe de eletrodos. Após os experimentos eletrofisiológicos, as cobaias foram submetidas à eutanásia e a microtomografia foi feita para determinar a posição do eletrodo e calcular a profundidade de inserção. Com base nas mudanças de amplitude e limiares em relação à frequência do estímulo, os dados eletrofisiológicos e a posição obtida na reconstrução microtomográfica foram comparados. Resultados: A cocleostomia promoveu um pequeno impacto eletrofisiológico, enquanto a inserção do eletrodo causou alterações na amplitude dos potenciais eletrofisiológicos extra-cocleares em uma ampla faixa de frequências, especialmente nas inserções mais profundas. Houve, entretanto, preservação da resposta elétrica aos estímulos de baixa frequência na maioria dos casos, indicou um impacto auditivo limitado na avaliação intraoperatória. A profundidade média de inserção dos eletrodos apicais foi 5339,56 μm (± 306,45 - 6 contatos inseridos) e 4447,75 μm (± 290,23 - 5 contatos inseridos). Conclusão: As principais alterações eletrofisiológicas observadas durante os procedimentos cirúrgicos ocorreram durante o implante do eletrodo, especialmente nas inserções mais profundas, enquanto a cocleostomia alterou os potenciais em menor grau. Embora a perda auditiva seja frequentemente observada em posição apical ao implante coclear, foi possível preservar as baixas frequências após a inserção.

High antimicrobial resistance in Salmonella spp. and Escherichia coli isolates from swine fecal samples submitted to a veterinary diagnostic laboratory in Colombia

Background: Commensal microflora such as Escherichia coli and Enterococcus spp. are representative indicators of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) as they are part of the normal intestinal microflora and can acquire and disseminate AMR to pathogenic or zoonotic bacteria like Salmonella spp. Objective: To investigate the state of AMR among E. coli and Salmonella spp., potential pathogens in humans, isolated from cecal contents of pigs submitted to a veterinary diagnostic laboratory in Colombia from 2016 to 2019. Methods: Susceptibility testing was conducted using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method according to the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute guidelines for antimicrobial zone diameter breakpoints. An E. coli strain (ATCC 25922) was used as the quality control organism. Isolates showing resistance to three or more antimicrobial classes were classified as multidrug-resistant (MDR) as defined by a joint group of the European Centre for Disease prevention and Control and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention of the USA. Results: A total of 112 E. coli and 192 Salmonella spp. colonies were isolated from 557 samples received between 2016 and 2019. In order of decreasing frequency, E. coli was resistant to tetracycline (100%), sulfamethoxazol-trimethoprim (97.5%), amoxicillin (86.4%), enrofloxacin (82.6%), tylosin (82.1%), doxycycline (59%), neomycin (50%), ciprofloxacin (45.5%), ceftiofur (35%), gentamicin (30%), tilmicosin (29%), and fosfomycin (12.5%). When compared with E. coli, Salmonella spp. was generally resistant to the same agents with slightly less resistance (between 10-30%) to eight of the antimicrobials tested. Salmonella spp. showed <20% resistance to three antimicrobials, as follows: neomycin (17%), gentamicin (16%), and fosfomycin (14%). Multi-resistance occurred in 68.7% (77/112) of E. coli and 70.3% (135/192) of Salmonella spp. isolates. Resistance of Salmonella spp. was alarming to all the critically important antimicrobials tested: fluoroquinolones (enrofloxacin, ciprofloxacin), ceftiofur (third- generation cephalosporin), and macrolides (tylosin). Conclusions: According to our results, there is a high level of multi- drug resistance (MDR) in E. coli and Salmonella spp. It is necessary to implement a nationwide antimicrobial resistance monitoring program in Colombia, together with proper antimicrobial prescribing guidelines for pigs. The indiscriminate use of antimicrobial growth promoters by the swine industry is generating widespread bacterial resistance and should be discontinued.

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Antecedentes: Flora comensal como espécies de Escherichia coli e Enterococcus são tipicamente escolhidas como indicadores representativos de la resistência antimicrobiana (AMR), pois fazem parte da flora intestinal normal e podem adquirir e disseminar AMR a bactérias patogênicas ou zoonóticas como Salmonella spp. Objetivo: Investigar o estado da AMR entre E. coli e Salmonella spp. isolados do conteúdo cecal de porcos colombianos submetidos ao Laboratório de Diagnóstico Veterinário de 2016 a 2019, ambos sendo patógenos potenciais em humanos. Métodos: O teste de suscetibilidade foi conduzido usando o método de difusão em disco Kirby-Bauer de acordo com as diretrizes do Instituto de Padrões Clínicos e Laboratoriais para pontos de quebra de diâmetro da zona antimicrobiana. A cepa de E. coli (ATCC 25922) foi usada como organismo de controle de qualidade. Os isolados que apresentam resistência a três ou mais classes de antimicrobianos foram classificados como multirresistentes (MDR), conforme definido por um grupo conjunto do Centro Europeu para Prevenção e Controle de Doenças e Centro para Controle e Prevenção de Doenças dos EUA. Resultados: Um total de 112 E. coli e 192 Salmonella spp. foram isolados de 557 amostras submetidas entre 2016 e 2019. Em ordem decrescente de frequência, a resistência a E. coli foi: tetraciclina (100%), sulfametoxazol-trimetoprim (97,5%), amoxicilina (86,4%), enrofloxacina (82,6%), tilosina (82,1%), doxiciclina (59%), neomicina (50%), ciprofloxacina (45,5%), ceftiofur (35%), gentamicina (30%), tilmicosina (29%) e fosfomicina (12,5%). Quando comparada com E. coli, Salmonella spp. foi geralmente resistente aos mesmos agentes com resistência ligeiramente menor (entre 10-30%) a oito dos antimicrobianos. Apenas três antimicrobianos apresentaram resistência a Salmonella spp. abaixo de 20% da seguinte forma: neomicina (17%), gentamicina (16%) e fosfomicina (14%). Multi-resistência ocorreu em 68,7% (77/112) de E. coli e 70,3% (135/192) de Salmonella spp. isolados. Resistência de Salmonella spp. foi alarmante para todos os antimicrobianos criticamente importantes testados: fluoroquinolonas (enrofloxacina, ciprofloxacina), ceftiofur (cefalosporina de terceira geração) e macrolídeos (tilosina). Conclusões: Esses resultados indicam um alto nível de resistência a múltiplos medicamentos (MDR) e que um Programa Nacional de Monitoramento da Resistência Antimicrobiana é necessário para a Colômbia, juntamente com a implementação de diretrizes de prescrição de antimicrobianos para suínos. O uso indiscriminado de antimicrobianos para promoção de crescimento na indústria suína está claramente promovendo resistência generalizada e deve ser interrompido.

Prevalencia y factores de riesgo de leptospirosis en la industria porcícola / Prevalence and risk factors of leptospirosis in the pig industry

La leptospirosis es una enfermedad clasificada como zoonótica, y también es una de las más olvidadas. Como enfermedad endémica zoonótica, permanece en los lugares menos favorecidos afectando la salud humana y tambien de los ciertos animales domésticos. Tal afectación ocasiona pérdidas sustanciales económicas y sanitarias en las poblaciones vulnerables. La incidencia, se estima que afecta a un millón de seres humanos ocasionando la muerte a casi 59.000 de ellas. La transmisión de la leptospirosis humana es debida a la exposición directa o indirecta de las fuentes de infección primaria como animales infectados (orina o tejidos), y también por el contacto con alimentos o aguas contaminadas. En este trabajo se estudió la prevalencia y los factores de riesgos de leptospirosos en la industria porcícola en diferentes regiones del Estado Peruano. Los resultados mostraron que los trabajadores, en su mayoría, masculinos, con edades comprendidas entre 20 y 50 años fueron los más vulnerables a estos serovares de Leptospira, lo cual se relaciona con el contacto directo con porcinos y sus derivados. Por otra parte, las condiciones de vida de los trabajadores influyen en la mayor prevalencia de este servar. Condiciones rurales, falta de higiene, el contacto con mascotas sin tratamiento son factores de riego para la propagación de la leptospirosis(AU)

Leptospirosis is a disease classified as zoonotic, and it is also one of the most neglected. As an endemic zoonotic disease, it remains in the least favored places, affecting human health and also that of certain domestic animals. Such damage causes substantial economic and health losses in vulnerable populations. The incidence is estimated to affect one million human beings, causing the death of almost 59,000 of them. Transmission of human leptospirosis is due to direct or indirect exposure to primary infection sources such as infected animals (urine or tissues), and also by contact with contaminated food or water. In this work, the prevalence and risk factors of leptospirosis in the pig industry in different regions of the Peruvian State were studied. The results showed that workers, mostly male, aged between 20 and 50 years were the most vulnerable to these Leptospira serovars, which is related to direct contact with pigs and their derivatives. On the other hand, the living conditions of the workers influence the higher prevalence of this servar. Rural conditions, lack of hygiene, contact with untreated pets are risk factors for the spread of leptospirosis(AU)

Effects of supplemental xylanase on in vitro disappearance of dry matter in feed ingredients for swine / Efectos de la suplementación con xilanasa sobre la desaparición in vitro de materia seca en ingredientes de piensos para cerdos / Efeitos da xilanase suplementar no desaparecimento in vitro de matéria seca em ingredientes de rações para suínos

Abstract Background: Alternative feed ingredients are widely used in swine diets to lower feed costs, but these ingredients contain a large quantity of non-starch polysaccharides. Supplemental xylanase is known to break down non-starch polysaccharides. However, the effects of exogenous xylanase from Bacillus subtilis on various feed ingredients have rarely been compared. Objective: To evaluate the effects of supplemental xylanase on in vitro disappearance of dry matter (DM) in various feed ingredients for pigs. Methods: Nine feed ingredients were used to measure in vitro ileal disappearance and in vitro total tract disappearance of DM. Each ground ingredient was supplemented with either supplemental xylanase (9,000 U/g) or cornstarch at 1.0%. Results: Supplemental xylanase increased in vitro ileal disappearance of DM in wheat, barley, wheat flour, and wheat bran (p<0.05). The in vitro total tract disappearance of DM for barley and wheat bran increased with xylanase addition (p<0.05). Conclusion: Exogenous xylanase could increase in vitro ileal DM disappearance in barley, wheat, wheat flour, and wheat bran, but did not affect in vitro total tract DM disappearance in wheat and wheat flour.

Resumen Antecedentes: Los ingredientes alternativos se utilizan ampliamente en las dietas porcinas para reducir los costos del pienso, pero estos ingredientes contienen una gran cantidad de polisacáridos no-amiláceos. Se sabe que la xilanasa suplementaria descompone los polisacáridos diferentes al almidón. Sin embargo, rara vez se han comparado los efectos de la xilanasa exógena de Bacillus subtilis en algunos ingredientes del alimento. Objetivo: Evaluar los efectos de la xilanasa suplementaria sobre la desaparición in vitro de la materia seca (MS) en varios ingredientes alimentarios para cerdos. Métodos: Se utilizaron nueve ingredientes del alimento para medir la desaparición ileal in vitro y la desaparición del tracto total in vitro de MS. Cada ingrediente molido se complementó con xilanasa suplementaria (9,000 U/g) o almidón de maíz al 1,0%. Resultados: La xilanasa suplementaria aumentó la desaparición ileal in vitro de MS en trigo, cebada, harina de trigo y salvado de trigo (p<0,05). La desaparición de tracto total de MS in vitro para la cebada y el salvado de trigo aumentó con la adición de xilanasa (p<0,05). Conclusión: La xilanasa exógena podría aumentar la desaparición de la MS ileal in vitro en cebada, trigo, harina de trigo y salvado de trigo, pero no afecta la desaparición de la MS en tracto total in vitro del trigo y la harina de trigo.

Resumo Antecedentes: Ingredientes alternativos para rações são amplamente usados em dietas para suínos para reduzir os custos da alimentação, mas esses ingredientes contêm uma grande quantidade de polissacarídeos não amiláceos. A xilanase suplementar é conhecida por quebrar polissacarídeos não amiláceos. No entanto, os efeitos da xilanase exógena de Bacillus subtilis em vários ingredientes da ração raramente foram comparados. Objetivo: Avaliar os efeitos da xilanase suplementar no desaparecimento in vitro da matéria seca (MS) em vários ingredientesde rações para suínos. Métodos: Nove ingredientes da ração foram usados para medir o desaparecimento ileal in vitro e o desaparecimento de MS in vitro do trato total. Cada ingrediente moído foi suplementado com xilanase suplementar (9.000 U/g) ou amido de milhoa 1,0%. Resultados: A xilanase suplementar aumentou o desaparecimento ileal in vitro de MS em trigo, cevada, farinha de trigo e farelo de trigo (p<0,05). O desaparecimento in vitro de MS do trato total para cevada e farelo de trigo aumentou com a adição de xilanase (p<0,05). Conclusão: A xilanase exógena pode aumentar o desaparecimento in vitro da MS ileal em cevada, trigo, farinha de trigo e farelo de trigo, mas não afetou o desaparecimento in vitro do trato total da MS no trigo e na farinha de trigo.

Mycobacterium bovis detection in slaughtered pigs in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil

The infection by the Mycobacterium genus is important in pig farming due to the economic losses caused by total or partial carcass condemnation in slaughterhouses. The present study investigated the occurrence of a tuberculosis outbreak in pigs, based on the identification of lesions at the slaughter line of a slaughterhouse. At the inspection line of the slaughterhouse, carcasses were identified with viscera containing macroscopic lesions that indicated tuberculosis (granulomatous lymphadenitis). Tracheobronchial, mesenteric, and submandibular lymph nodes were collected, as well as liver samples and their corresponding lymph nodes. The samples were sent to the Federal Agricultural Defense Laboratory (LFDA/RS) and processed for the diagnosis of tuberculosis and the molecular characterization of Mycobacterium bovis. Based on the results of post-mortem and laboratory inspections, the occurrence was characterized as a tuberculosis outbreak in pigs, which originated from a farm in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Over three months, three batches, adding up to 2884 animals, were sent to slaughter, of which 102 (3.5%) had tuberculosis-like lesions at the inspection line. Based on these results, the productive process was investigated, assessing the feeding, water supply, and milk whey offered in the diet of pigs. It was concluded that the outbreak was caused by feeding unpasteurized or inadequately pasteurized (insufficient time x temperature relation) whey to the pigs. The use of whey from cheese production is a frequent practice in the state of Rio Grande do Sul and one of the risk factors for granulomatous lymphadenitis in pigs.

Diseases of the central nervous system in swine in Southern Brazil / Doenças do sistema nervoso central de suínos no Sul do Brasil

Brazil is the fourth largest exporter of pork worldwide, with its production concentrated in the Southern region of the country. To reduce the economic impacts and increase herd health, an efficient diagnosis of diseases is necessary. The frequency, seasonal, and annual distribution of diseases that affecting the swine nervous system in Southern Brazil were determined through a retrospective study conducted from 2008 to 2018. A total of 231 pigs were evaluated, and distributed in the following phases: suckling piglets, nursery, growing, finishing, and adults. Piglets in the nursery phase were the most affected with 58.01%. Infectious diseases accounted for 87.01% (201/231) of lesions in the nervous system. Bacterial meningitis was observed in 58.87% of cases, presenting an endemic distribution, and a propensity to occur in the months of autumn/winter. The highest number of cases of porcine circovirus-2 were observed in 2008 and 2009, with a subsequent decline. Porcine circovirus, salt poisoning, and brain abscesses exhibited no association between the seasonal occurrence and annual distribution. Salt poisoning was observed more frequently in the last years of this study. Both, non-suppurative encephalomyelitis and selenium toxicosis exhibited an association between their occurrence and seasonal distribution in, the months of winter, and summer, respectively.(AU)

Brasil é o quarto maior exportador de carne suína do mundo, com sua produção concentrada na região Sul do país. Para reduzir os impactos econômicos e aumentar a saúde do rebanho, é necessário o diagnóstico eficiente das doenças. A frequência, distribuição sazonal e anual das doenças que afetam o sistema nervoso de suínos no Sul do Brasil foram determinadas através de um estudo retrospectivo no período de 2008 a 2018. Foram avaliados 231 suínos, distribuídos nas seguintes fases: maternidade, creche, crescimento, terminação e adultos. Leitões da fase de creche foram os mais afetados com 58,01%. As doenças de origem infecciosa foram responsáveis por 87,01% (201/231) das causas de lesões no sistema nervoso. Meningite bacteriana foi observada em 58,87% dos casos, apresentando distribuição endêmica, e uma tendência a ocorrer nos meses de outono/inverno. O maior número de casos de circovírus suíno foram observados em 2008 e 2009, com declínio posterior. Circovírus suíno, intoxicação por sal e os abscessos encefálicos não apresentaram associação entre a ocorrência sazonal e distribuição anual. A intoxicação por sal foi observada com maior frequência nos últimos anos deste estudo. A encefalomielite não supurativa e a intoxicação por selênio exibiram associação entre a sua ocorrência e distribuição sazonal, nos meses de inverno e verão, respectivamente.(AU)

High level of infection by Toxoplasma gondii in pigs slaughtered in the city of São Luís, Maranhão / Alto nível de infecção por Toxoplasma gondii em suínos abatidos na cidade de São Luís, Maranhão

Abstract A serological, molecular and histopathological study was carried out in order to investigate occurrences of Toxoplasma gondii in pigs slaughtered with and without inspection service. Serum samples were collected from 60 pigs to detect anti-T. gondii antibody by indirect fluorescent antibody (IFAT). Tongue, masseter and diaphragm fragments were also collected for parasite DNA detection by means of the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and histopathological analysis. The serological results showed that 77% (44/60) of the pigs were positive. Regarding PCR, 66.67% (40/60) were positive for T. gondii. Among the tissues evaluated, the diaphragm was the one with the highest frequency of positivity (40%; 24/60), followed by the masseter (38.33%; 23/60) and tongue (33.3%; 20/60). Histopathological changes were only observed in the diaphragm, which presented inflammatory infiltrates of lymphohistiocytic and neutrophilic types. These results not only show the potential threat of T. gondii to human health, but also demonstrate the dynamic epidemiological situation of toxoplasmosis in pigs in the city of São Luís, providing support for food security regarding pigs and for T. gondii control programs in Brazil.

Resumo Realizou-se um estudo sorológico, molecular e histopatológico com o objetivo de verificar a ocorrência de Toxoplasma gondii em suínos abatidos com e sem serviço de inspeção. Foram coletados soros de 60 suínos para a pesquisa de anticorpos anti-T. gondii pela reação de imunofluorescência indireta (RIFI). Também foram coletados fragmentos de língua, masseter e diafragma para a detecção do DNA do parasito por meio da reação em cadeia da polimerase (PCR) e análise histopatológica. A análise sorológica demonstrou que 77% (44/60) dos suínos apresentaram anticorpos anti-T. gondii. Com relação ao PCR, 66,67% (40/60) foram positivos para T. gondii. Dentre os tecidos avaliados, o diafragma foi o que obteve maior frequência de positividade (40%; 24/60), seguidos de masseter (38,33%; 23/60) e língua (33,3%; 20/60). Alterações histopatológicas foram observadas apenas no diafragma, que apresentou infiltrado inflamatório do tipo linfohistiocitário e neutrofílico. Esses resultados não evidenciam apenas a ameaça potencial de T. gondii à saúde humana, mas também demonstram a dinâmica situação epidemiológica da toxoplasmose em suínos na região da cidade de São Luís, fornecendo suporte para a segurança alimentar de suínos e programas de controle de T. gondii no país.

Agents of pneumonia in slaughtered pigs in southern Brazil

ABSTRACT: A high prevalence of pneumonic lesions has been reported to affect slaughtered pigs in southern Brazil. In order to identify which microorganisms have been causing those lesions, 30 pig lungs presenting pneumonic gross lesions were collected from five different slaughterhouses, totaling 150 lungs. Samples for bacterial isolation, molecular, histopathologic and immunohistochemistry (IHC) evaluation were taken from each lung. The pneumonic lesion scoring ranged from 1.53 to 2.83. The most frequent histopathological lesions found was the concomitant Influenza A virus (IAV) and Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae infection, corresponding to 55.3% (83/150), and Pasteurella multocida type A was isolated in 54.2% (45/83) of these cases. In 102 samples (68%), there was histopathologic suggestion of involvement of more than one infectious agent. M. hyopneumoniae was the most frequent agent associated with pneumonic lesions, being present in 92.1% (94/102) of the lungs with coinfections, followed by IAV in 89.2% (91/102). Besides the coinfections, IAV lesions were observed also in six samples without another pathogenic microorganism detected. A total of 46 samples with acute and subacute IAV suspected lesions in histopathological examination were assessed for IHC and real time RT-PCR for IAV. A total of 35% (16/46) of them were positive by IHC and 13% (6/46) by real time RT-PCR. Regarding M. hyopneumoniae, 79.3% (119/150) of samples were positive by qPCR and 84.9% (101/119) of them also presented M. hyopneumoniae suspected lesions in the histopathological examination. The results of this study suggest the importance of IAV in respiratory diseases in finishing pigs, even though this virus is more frequently reported in the nursery phase. In addition, our results emphasize the importance of lung coinfections in finishing pigs.

RESUMO: Lesões sugestivas de pneumonia são frequentemente encontradas em altas prevalências em suínos abatidos no sul do Brasil. Para identificar quais microrganismos causam essas lesões, foram coletados 30 pulmões de suínos com lesão macroscópica sugestiva de pneumonia em cinco frigoríficos diferentes, totalizando 150 pulmões. Amostras para isolamento bacteriano, avaliação molecular, histopatológica e imuno-histoquímica (IHC) foram coletadas de cada pulmão. O escore de lesão pulmonar variou entre 1,53 a 2,83. O achado histopatológico mais observado foi a lesão sugestiva de infecção concomitante pelo vírus Influenza A (IAV) e Mycoplasma (M.) hyopneumoniae, correspondendo a 55,3% (83/150), e em 54,2% (45/83) desses casos Pasteurella (P.) multocida tipo A foi isolado. Em 102 amostras (68%), houve lesão histopatológica sugestiva do envolvimento de mais de um agente infeccioso. M. hyopneumoniae foi o microrganismo mais frequente associado a lesões de pneumonia, estando presente em 92,1% (94/102) dos pulmões com coinfecções, seguido de IAV, que foi encontrado em 89,2% (91/102). Além das coinfecções, lesões de IAV foram observadas em mais seis amostras que não aparentavam envolvimento de outro agente infeccioso. Um total de 46 amostras com suspeita de lesão aguda e subaguda de IAV no exame histopatológico foram avaliadas para IHC e RT-PCR em tempo real para IAV e 35% (16/46) delas foram positivas por IHC e 13% (6/46) foram positivas por RT-PCR em tempo real. Com relação a M. hyopneumoniae, 79,3% (119/150) das amostras foram positivas por qPCR e 84,9% (101/119) delas também apresentaram lesões suspeitas de M. hyopneumoniae no exame histopatológico. Os resultados deste trabalho sugerem a importância do IAV como agente causador de pneumonias em suínos de terminação, embora esse vírus seja mais frequentemente relatado na fase de creche. Além disso, os achados deste trabalho demonstram a presença frequente de coinfecções pulmonares em suínos de terminação.

Estudo de anatomia comparada suína por angiotomografia: contribuições para modelos de pesquisa e treinamento em cirurgia vascular e endovascular / Comparative angiotomographic study of swine vascular anatomy: contributions to research and training models in vascular and endovascular surgery

Resumo Contexto Modelos com animais de médio e grande porte permitem que pesquisadores avaliem a eficácia e a segurança de procedimentos cardiovasculares em sistemas que se assemelham à anatomia humana e podem ser usados para simular cenários para fins de treinamento. Embora modelos suínos tenham sido extensivamente utilizados, muitos fatores fisiológicos e anatômicos permanecem desconhecidos ou apenas superficialmente descritos. Objetivos Descrever a anatomia vascular do suíno por tomografia computadorizada, compará-la à anatomia humana e discutir a aplicação dos modelos porcinos em procedimentos abertos e endovasculares. Métodos Três porcos machos da raça Landrace foram submetidos a tomografia computadorizada. A anatomia vascular de pescoço, tórax, abdome e membros foi analisada e descrita; foram destacadas similaridades e divergências relevantes entre a anatomia vascular de suínos e de humanos e as implicações em procedimentos vasculares nos suínos. Resultados O território carotídeo, o arco aórtico e os ramos terminais da aorta em suínos apresentaram diferenças marcantes quando comparados aos de humanos. Foram detectadas compressões de veias renal e ilíaca comum, ambas à esquerda, semelhantes às encontradas nas síndromes humanas de Nutcracker e May-Thurner. Medidas vasculares (diâmetro, comprimento e ângulos) de diferentes topografias de suínos foram fornecidas. Conclusões Os dados fornecidos podem ser úteis para o planejamento de ensaios pré-clínicos e pesquisa básica, bem como para o refinamento do treinamento cirúrgico usando modelos suínos no campo da cirurgia vascular.

Abstract Background Medium and large animal models allow researchers to evaluate the efficacy and safety of cardiovascular procedures in systems that resemble human anatomy and can be used to simulate scenarios for training purposes. Although porcine models have been used extensively, many physiological and anatomical features remain unknown or only superficially described. Objectives To describe the normal porcine vascular anatomy on computed tomography scans, compare it to human vascular anatomy, and discuss the application of porcine models for open and endovascular procedures. Methods Three male Landrace pigs underwent computed tomography. The vascular anatomy of the neck, thorax, abdomen, and limbs was analyzed and described; relevant similarities and differences between porcine and human vascular anatomies and the implications for vascular procedures in pigs are highlighted. Results The carotid territory, aortic arch, and terminal aorta branches all show marked differences in pigs compared to their human counterparts. Compressions of both left renal and common iliac veins were detected, analogous to those seen in human Nutcracker and May-Thurner syndromes. Vascular measurements (diameters, lengths, and angles) of several different porcine territories are presented. Conclusions The data presented should be useful for planning preclinical trials and basic research and for refining surgical training using porcine models in vascular fields.

Seed removal of Araucaria angustifolia by native and invasive mammals in protected areas of Atlantic Forest / Remoção de sementes de Araucaria angustifolia por mamíferos nativos e invasores em áreas protegidas da Mata Atlântica

Abstract Araucaria Forest is one of the most threatened tropical forests in the world. Wild pig (Sus scrofa) are invasive pig that is expanding through these forests and seed removing that would be available to native fauna. Our aim was to evaluate the rates of seed Araucaria (Araucaria angustifolia) removal by both small, medium, and large mammals in areas with and without wild pig. We conducted a seed-removal experiment with three treatments differing in mammals' access to seeds, in areas with and without the occurrence of wild pig. Similar numbers of seeds Araucaria were removed by small, medium and large mammals, even in areas with wild pig. However, we verified that seed removal by small mammals is graduate over time, while large mammals, especially wild pig, remove in one event. So, we recommend long-term studies to investigate competition between wild pig and native biota and the effects of wild pig on seed dispersal and seed survival.

Resumo A floresta de Araucárias é uma das florestas tropicais mais ameaçadas do mundo. O javali (Sus scrofa) é um porco invasor que está se expandindo por essas florestas e removendo sementes que estariam disponíveis para a fauna nativa. Nosso objetivo foi avaliar as taxas de remoção das sementes do pinheiro brasileiro (Araucaria angustifolia) por pequenos, médios e grandes mamíferos, em áreas com e sem javali. Realizamos um experimento de remoção de sementes com três tratamentos diferentes que limitam o acesso das espécies de mamíferos às sementes do pinheiro brasileiro, em áreas com e sem a ocorrência de javalis. Números semelhantes de sementes de pinheiro brasileiro foram removidos por pequenos, médios e grandes mamíferos, mesmo em áreas com javalis. No entanto, verificamos que a remoção de sementes por pequenos mamíferos é gradativa ao longo do tempo, enquanto que grandes mamíferos, especialmente os javalis, removem as sementes em uma única visita. Portanto, recomendamos estudos de longo prazo para investigar a competição entre javalis e biota nativa e os efeitos dos javalis na dispersão e sobrevivência das sementes do pinheiro brasileiro.

Infection of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene and Dacron-coated stents with Staphylococcus epidermidis: an experimental study in pigs / Infecção de stents revestidos com politetrafluoretileno expandido e Dacron com Staphylococcus epidermidis: estudo experimental em porcos

Abstract Background Diagnosis of the etiologic agent of endoprosthesis infections is essential to enable treatment, since these infections constitute important complications of endovascular procedures. Sonication of explanted tissue and materials is a technique that can be used to facilitate detection of biofilm-producing bacteria. Objectives To evaluate infection of pigs' aortas after implantation of nitinol stents coated with polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) or Dacron, previously infected with biofilm-producing Staphylococcus epidermidis. Intimal thickening and the inflammatory response in the aortic wall were also evaluated. Methods 11 ePTFE-coated nitinol stents and 10 Dacron stents infected with S. epidermidis strains were implanted in the infrarenal aorta of 21 8-week-old pigs. After 2 weeks, the aorta containing the stents was removed. A vortex mixer and ultrasound were used to homogenize the samples and remove the biofilm. Subsequently, the number of colony-forming units was counted. Results There were no significant differences between the two groups in terms of the number of colony-forming units or of inflammation in the arterial wall. With the exception of one specimen from the Dacron group, all aortic stent cultures were positive for S. epidermidis. Conclusions There were no significant differences in the inflammatory response or infection rate between ePTFE and Dacron-coated stents actively infected with biofilm-producing S. epidermidis. Intimal thickening and the inflammatory response to infection of endoprostheses were similar. These results suggest that the two most widely used stent lining materials have a similar infection rate.

Resumo Contexto O diagnóstico do agente etiológico é essencial para o tratamento das infecções de endoprótese, pois representam uma importante complicação do tratamento endovascular. A sonificação dos tecidos pode ser uma técnica usada para auxiliar na detecção de bactérias produtoras de biofilme. Objetivos Avaliar a infecção da aorta dos porcos após o implante de stents de nitinol revestidos com politetrafluoretileno (ePTFE) ou Dacron, infectados com Staphylococcus epidermidis, produtor de biofilme. O espessamento intimal e a resposta inflamatória na parede aórtica também foram avaliados. Métodos Onze stents de nitinol revestidos com ePTFE e 10 stents de Dacron infectados com cepas de S. epidermidis foram implantados na aorta infrarrenal de 21 porcos com 8 semanas de idade. Após duas semanas, a aorta contendo os stents foi removida. Um misturador de vórtice e ultrassom foram utilizados para homogeneizar as amostras e remover o biofilme. Posteriormente, o número de unidades formadoras de colônias foi contado. Resultados Não houve diferenças significativas no número de unidades formadoras de colônias ou inflamação na parede arterial entre os dois grupos. Todas as culturas de stent aórtico foram positivas para S. epidermidis, exceto uma no grupo Dacron. Conclusões Não houve diferenças significativas na resposta inflamatória ou na taxa de infecção entre os stents revestidos de ePTFE e Dacron, infectados ativamente pelo S. epidermidis produtor de biofilme. O espessamento intimal e a resposta inflamatória à infecção das endopróteses foram semelhantes. Esses resultados sugerem que os dois materiais de revestimento de stent mais amplamente utilizados têm uma taxa de infecção semelhante.

Tuberculosis outbreak in intensive swine farming from southern Brazil / Surto de tuberculose em suínos de criação intensiva no Sul do Brasil

ABSTRACT: Mycobacterium tuberculosis var. bovis is the etiologic agent of animal tuberculosis (aTB), a neglected zoonotic disease. Animal tuberculosis can affect many species, including swine. aTB-consistent granulomas in these animals lead to carcass disposal, generating economic losses and posing risks to human health. In the present study, an aTB outbreak was identified at an intensive swine farming operation in Southern Brazil. Inspection during swine slaughter revealed aTB-suspected lesions, which were collected for diagnosis by histology, PCR, and bacterial isolation. The animals had no clinical signs of tuberculosis. Granulomatous lesions were identified in 0.73% (59/8,071) of the slaughtered swine, and were confirmed by histology. Nine samples were further examined by PCR and bacterial isolation, with 44.4% and 55.5% positive results, respectively. Data from abattoirs subjected to federal surveillance show an aTB prevalence in Brazil of <0.001%. The present data thus indicate a swine aTB outbreak in intensive breeding. Swine infection can be related to exposure to infected animals or to contaminated food or environment. Biosecurity measures must be taken to avoid aTB transmission. Although certified swine breeding farms adopt such measures, this report indicates that constant monitoring is crucial, and greater control in swine breeding and finishing units is required to prevent outbreaks and spread of tuberculosis.

RESUMO: Mycobacterium bovis é o agente etiológico da tuberculose animal (aTB), uma doença zoonótica negligenciada. A tuberculose animal pode afetar muitas espécies, incluindo suínos. Os granulomas compatíveis com a aTB nesses animais levam ao descarte de carcaças, gerando perdas econômicas e trazendo riscos à saúde humana. No presente estudo, um surto de aTB foi identificado em um sistema de criação intensiva de suínos na região Sul do Brasil. A inspeção durante um abate de suínos revelou lesões suspeitas de tuberculose, as quais foram coletadas para diagnóstico por histologia, PCR e isolamento bacteriano. Os animais não apresentavam sinais clínicos de tuberculose. Lesões granulomatosas foram identificadas em 0,73% (59/8.071) dos suínos abatidos, e foram confirmadas pela histologia. Nove amostras foram posteriormente examinadas por PCR e isolamento bacteriano, com 44,4% e 55,5% de resultados positivos, respectivamente. Dados de frigoríficos submetidos à vigilância federal demostram prevalência da aTB de < 0,001% no Brasil. Os dados presentes indicam, portanto, um surto de aTB em suínos de criação intensiva. A infecção em suínos pode estar relacionada à exposição a animais infectados, alimentos ou ambientes contaminados. Medidas de biossegurança devem ser tomadas para evitar a transmissão da aTB. Embora as granjas suinícolas certificadas adotem tais medidas, este relato indica que o monitoramento constante é crucial, e maior controle nas unidades de criação e terminação de suínos é necessário para prevenir surtos e disseminação da tuberculose.

Inclusion of different levels of inulin on productive parameters and intestinal morphology in fattening guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus) / Efeito da inclusão de diferentes níveis de inulina nos parâmetros produtivos e na morfologia intestinal em cobaias de engorda (Cavia porcellus)

ABSTRACT: This study evaluated the effect of the three inulin levels (0.1%, 0.2%, 0.4%) supplemented as a substitute for an antibiotic growth promoter (AGP, zinc bacitracin) and control in guinea pigs raised for human consumption. Fifty 14-day-old male guinea pigs were used. Productive parameters (weight gain, total dry matter intake, and feed conversion ratio (FCR)) and intestinal morphology of the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum at slaughter (70 days of age) were evaluated. An inverse relationship was observed between inulin levels and FCR (linear effect; P = 0.006). There was no statistically significant effect of the treatments on total dry matter intake and weight gain (P > 0.05). A linear effect of the inulin level on the villi's length (VL), villi's width (VW), and length/depth ratio (VL/DC) in the duodenum; VW in the jejunum; and VL in the ileum (P <0 .05) was reported. In conclusion, a linear effect of the increasing doses of inulin was found on the FCR and the morphological parameters of the duodenum's integrity, and no differences in the effects of the inulin added to the diet and the treatment with AGP were found.

RESUMO: O objetivo do estudo foi avaliar o efeito da suplementação na dieta de cobaias com inulina, em níveis crescentes (0,1%, 0,2%, 0,4%) como substituto para um antibiótico promotor de crescimento (AGP, bacitracina de zinco) além do grupo controle (dieta padrão). Foram utilizados 50 porquinhos-da-índia machos com 14 dias de idade. Os parâmetros produtivos foram avaliados do desmame aos 70 dias de idade e os parâmetros morfológicos intestinais foram avaliados no duodeno, jejuno e íleo no momento do abate. Foi encontrado um efeito linear do nível de inulina sobre na taxa de conversão alimentar (FCR; P = 0,006), indicando que em níveis mais elevados de inulina o FCR diminui. Não houve diferença significativa entre os grupos quando avaliado o efeito dos diferentes tratamentos sobre o consumo de ração e ganho de peso corporal (P > 0,05). Um efeito linear do nível de inulina foi encontrado no comprimento das vilosidades (VL), na largura das vilosidades (VW) e na relação comprimento / profundidade (VL/DC) no duodeno, sobre a VW no jejuno; e no VL no íleo (P < 0,05). Em conclusão, um efeito linear do aumento do nível de inulina foi encontrado na taxa de conversão alimentar e nos parâmetros morfológicos da integridade do duodeno, além disso, não houve diferença entre a adição de inulina na dieta e o tratamento com um antibiótico promotor de crescimento.