[Leptospirosis: occupational risk in the chain of food of animal origin]. / Leptospirosi: rischio professionale nella filiera degli alimenti di origine animale.

Leptospirosis is a worldwide zoonotic infection. The source of infection in humans is usually either direct or indirect contact with the urine of infected animals. Occupation is a significant risk factor for humans. Direct contact with infected animals accounts for most infections in farmers, veterinarians, abattoir workers, meat inspectors. The highest risk is associated with swine farming, slaughterhouse and meat industry workers. Most cases are diagnosed by serology. Leptospirosis may be prevented trought appropriate hygiene, sanitization, animal husbandry. It is essential to educate people working with animals or animal tissues about measures for reducing the risk of exposure to Leptospira. Protective clothing provided included an apron, gloves and rubber boots. When the risk is high, serologic testing are useful also.

[Plasma concentrations of thyroid hormones in the domestic goat. Seasonal variations in relation to age]. / Concentrazione plasmatica degli ormoni tiroidei della capra-domestica. Variazioni stagionali e in rapporto con l'eta'.

Plasma thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) were investigated by immunoenzymatic methods in an Umbrian indigenous goat population. Seventy females and 10 males, aging 1 to 14 years, were tested in different periods of the year. Mean values (m +/- SD) of 320 determinations were 2,4 +/- 1,5 ng/ml (ranging from 0,5 to 7,0) for T3 and 6,5 +/- 2,5 micrograms/dl (range 2,2 - 14,2) for T4. The highest values for both hormones were recorded in spring, the lowest at the end of the summer (mean decrease: T3 = 57%; T4 equal 35%). Thyroid hormone levels decreased with age, young animals under 3 years showing higher values and lower summer decreases (particularly of the T3 levels), than mature animals (4 - 8 years old). Old goats, (aging 9 - 14 years) showed the lowest values for both hormones.