Effect of retained placenta and clinical mastitis on reproduction parameters, immune response, and steroidogenic receptors gene expression in postpartum crossbred dairy cows.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of retained placenta (RP) and clinical mastitis (CM) on the reproductive efficiency of crossbred dairy cows during the postpartum period and the effect in some innate immune system indicators. For this, two experiments were carried out. In the first, a total of 232 cows were evaluated and divided as: healthy control (n = 184), RP (n = 22), and CM (n = 26) groups. The RP and CM was evaluated until 30 days postpartum (DPP) and reproductive rates were measured. In experiment 2, cows were divided in control (n = 10), RP (n = 10), and CM (n = 30) groups. Between 40 and 50 DPP, clinical, gynecological examination and endometrial cytobrush were performed to evaluate subclinical endometritis (SE) and gene expression of interleukins 1ß (IL-1ß) and 6 (IL-6), chemokine ligand 5 (CCL5), estrogen α (ESR1), and progesterone (PGR) receptors by qRT-PCR analysis. In experiment 1, the conception rate at 1st artificial insemination (AI) was lower in RP and CM groups and pregnancy rate at 150 days decreased in CM group. Calving-to-1st AI interval and days open were shorter in healthy cows. In experiment 2, the occurrence of SE was 26.7% and higher in RP and CM groups. The expression of IL-1ß increased in RP and CM groups, while IL-6 was less expressed in RP group. The CCL5, ESR1, and PGR were similar between groups. In conclusion, cows with RP and CM had their reproductive efficiency negatively affected and had they initial pro-inflammatory response improved by the increase of IL-ß.

Phylogeny and Virulence Factors of Escherichia coli Isolated from Dogs with Pyometra.

We aimed to investigate the occurrence, phylogeny, and virulence of E. coli in the uterine contents and urine of female dogs with pyometra, through the presence of virulence genes and their genetic similarity. Uterine secretions and urine samples from 52 female dogs with pyometra were collected and cultured. Strains identified as E. coli from 25 uterine and 7 urine samples were tested for virulence genes by PCR. Genetic similarity between the isolates was studied using RAPD-PCR. E. coli was observed in 48.07% uterine samples with pyometra and 20.0% urine samples. The strains showed high percentages for the presence of virulence genes: 96.9% had the gene sfa, 59.4% afa, 46.9% pap, 53.1% hly, and 68.75% cnf. Even with the high prevalence of virulence genes, the samples were not submitted to DNA sequencing to confirm the results. Analysis showed high genetic diversity in E. coli, however, strains isolated from the same animal indicate that cystitis and pyometra could be related. Our study indicated the association between E. coli in dogs with pyometra and cases of urinary tract infection and the pathogenic potential of strains increasing with animal age.

The Participation of a Malignant Catarrhal Fever Virus and Mycoplasma bovis in the Development of Single and Mixed Infections in Beef and Dairy Cattle With Bovine Respiratory Disease.

The bovine respiratory disease (BRD) complex is a multietiological and multifactorial disease associated with a wide range of viral and bacterial pathogens. This study evaluated the contribution of specific infectious disease agents in the development of BRD in cattle from Brazil and determined if a virus within the malignant catarrhal fever virus (MCFV) group and Mycoplasma bovis, acting individually or in conjunction, can be associated with the development of BRD. Formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded pulmonary sections were used in immunohistochemical assays to determine the intralesional presence of six antigens associated with BRD: bovine alphaherpesvirus 1 (BoHV-1), bovine parainfluenza virus 3 (BPIV-3), bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV), bovine respiratory syncytial virus (BRSV), MCFV, and M. bovis. Pneumonia was diagnosed in 82.7% (120/145) of all cattle evaluated. Interstitial pneumonia (60%, 72/120) and suppurative bronchopneumonia (25.8%, 31/120) were the most frequent patterns of pneumonia identified. Intralesional antigens of MCFV (53.3%, 64/120) were the most frequently associated with BRD, followed by M. bovis (47.5%, 57/120), BVDV (42.5%, 51/120), BoHV-1 (28.3%, 34/120), BRSV (24.2%, 29/120), and BPIV-3 (8.3%, 10/120). Additionally, antigens of BVDV, MCFV, and M. bovis were the most frequently identified agents associated with singular and concomitant infections. The MCFV identified during this study is more likely to be ovine gammaherpesvirus 2 (OvHV-2), since OvHV-2 is the only MCFV identified within the geographical region of this study. Interstitial pneumonia with proliferative vascular lesions may be a useful histologic feature to differentiate MCFV-induced pneumonia from other viral pneumonias of cattle. These results demonstrate that MCFV and M. bovis, in single or mixed infections, can produce pneumonia in cattle and should therefore be considered as primary agents in the development of BRD.

The effect of n- 3 polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation on immune and reproductive parameters in dairy cows: a review / O efeito da suplementação de ácidos graxos poliinsaturados n-3 sobre os parâmetros imunológicos e reprodutivos em vacas leiteiras: revisão de literatura

In dairy cattle, supplementation with polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) is considered to be an important tool to decrease the negative energy balance of periparturient dairy cows and improve the reproductive and immune systems. The most common PUFAs added to ruminant diets are omega 3 (n-3 PUFA) as linolenic acid and omega 6 (n-6 PUFA) as linoleic acid. This paper aims to review the potential effects of n-3 PUFA. We consider the effects of n-3 PUFA on the bovine immune system, especially on immune cells, and on in vivo and in vitro reproductive parameters, emphasizing how n-3 PUFAs act as modulators through one or more molecular mechanisms. The incorporation of n-3 PUFA in the dairy cow diet has positive effects on animal fertility and immunity. Future research on n-3 PUFA should be more explored concerning reproduction and immune function, starting from the investigation of basic biology to their potential for application in the clinical and preventive medicine fields.(AU)

Em rebanhos leiteiros, a suplementação com ácidos graxos poliinsaturados (PUFAs) é considerada uma ferramenta importante para diminuir o balanço energético negativo de vacas leiteiras durante o periparto e contribuir para a reprodução e sistema imunológico. Os efeitos da suplementação com PUFA sobre estes sistemas têm sido pouco explorados na literatura. Os PUFAs mais comuns na dieta dos ruminantes são Ômega-3 (n-3 PUFA) como ácido linolênico e Ômega-6 (n-6 PUFA) como ácido linoleico. Esta revisão abordará os aspectos gerais do n-3 PUFA, seus efeitos mais relevantes no sistema imune, principalmente seus efeitos nas células imunes, bem como seus efeitos na parte reprodutiva, tanto in vivo como in vitro, enfatizando a ação do n-3 PUFA através de mecanismos moleculares. A incorporação de n-3 PUFAs na dieta de vacas leiteiras exerce efeitos positivos na fertilidade e imunidade. Mais estudos a fim de explorar a função do n-3 PUFA na modulação do sistema imune e parâmetros reprodutivos, desde a investigação da biologia básica até a aplicação a campo de modo clínico e preventivo, devem ser requeridos.(AU)

Gene expression of FOXP3, indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO), IL10 and CSF1 in the uterus of cows that received an intrauterine infusion of maternal and paternal antigens / Expressão gênica de FOXP3, indoleamina 2,3-dioxigenase (IDO), IL10 e CSF1 em útero de vacas que receberam infusão intrauterina de antígenos paternos e maternos

Sensitization with conceptus antigens has been shown to be useful for improving reproductive performance facilitating maternal acceptance of an allogeneic embryo through the induction of cytokines and immunoregulatory cells in the uterine microenvironment. As FOXP3, IDO, IL10 and CSF1 in the uterus are important on the recognition and development of embryos during early pregnancy, this study aimed to determine whether simultaneous or isolated administration of paternal (semen) and maternal (PBMCs) antigens in the uterus of cow, on the day of estrus, influence the gene expression of these cytokines. Forty crossbred cows were divided into four treatments: T0: Control; T1: Semen; T2: PBMCs (peripheral blood mononuclear cells) from another cow and T3: PBMCs+Semen. Antigens were administered into the uterine body on the estrus day (D0). Uterine biopsies designed for molecular analysis of gene expression were collected in vivo seven (D7) and fourteen (D14) days after immunostimulation. Transcripts from FOXP3, IDO, IL-10 and CSF-1 were detected in all RNA samples extracted from uterine biopsies. The semiquantitative analysis showed that none of the treatments caused significant increase in the expression of these genes. Furthermore, on D14 all treatments led to a decline in the number of CSF-1 transcripts; moreover, treatment with PBMCs+Semen also led to a drop in the abundance of IL-10 transcripts. Such results suggest that isolated or simultaneous administration of both antigens would not increase maternal tolerance to embryo alloantigens, nor would it create favorable conditions to its growth and pre-implantation development, at least regarding the effects mediated by these genes on D7 and D14 of the estrous cycle.

A sensibilização intrauterina com antígenos do concepto tem-se mostrado útil para melhorar o desempenho reprodutivo, facilitando a aceitação materna de um embrião alogênico por meio da indução de citocinas e células imunorreguladoras no microambiente uterino. Como FOXP3, IDO, IL10 e CSF1 no útero são importantes no reconhecimento e desenvolvimento de embriões durante a gestação inicial, este estudo teve como objetivo determinar se a administração simultânea ou isolada de antígenos paterno (sêmen) e materno (PBMCs) no útero de vacas, no dia do estro, influenciam a expressão gênica dessas citocinas. Quarenta vacas mestiças foram divididas em quatro tratamentos: T0: Controle; T1: Sêmen; T2: PBMCs (células mononucleares do sangue periférico) e T3: PBMCs + Sêmen. Os antígenos foram administrados no corpo do útero no dia do estro (D0). Biópsias uterinas projetadas para análise molecular da expressão gênica foram coletadas in vivo sete (D7) e catorze (D14) dias após imunoestimulação. Transcritos de FOXP3, IDO, IL-10 e CSF-1 foram detetados em todas as amostras de RNA extraídas de biópsias uterinas. A análise semiquantitativa mostrou que nenhum dos tratamentos causou um aumento significativo na expressão desses genes. Além disso, no D14, todos os tratamentos levaram a um declínio na quantidade de transcritos do CSF-1; Além disso, o tratamento com PBMCs + sêmen também levou a uma queda na abundância de transcritos de IL-10. Estes resultados sugerem que a administração isolada ou simultânea de ambos os antígenos não deve aumentar a tolerância materna aos aloantígenos do embrião, nem deve criar condições favoráveis ao seu crescimento e desenvolvimento pré-implantação, pelo menos em relação aos efeitos mediados por esses genes nos dia sete e catorze do ciclo estral.

Risk factors associated with mammary tumors in female dogs / Fatores de risco para tumores mamários em cadelas de Uberlândia e Patos de Minas, Minas Gerais

Mammary tumors in female dogs are the most frequent and corresponds to half of the canine tumors. The objectives of this study were to determine the risk factors associated with the occurrence of mammary tumors in female dogs and to evaluate the macroscopic characteristics of these neoformations, using 386 dogs from the "Outubro Rosa Pets" events done within the cities of Uberlândia and Patos de Minas, Minas Gerais State, Brazil, in 2015 (n=194), 2016 (n=105) and 2017 (n=87). For the determination of risk factors, the binary logistic regression test (P<0.05) was performed. The occurrence of mammary tumors was 23.6% (91/386). The significant risk factors identified were increased age (P<0.001), overweight (P=0.048) and non-castration (P<0.001) with a chance of, respectively, 1.6, 2.3 and 9.3 times for the development of mammary tumors. In dogs with mammary tumors (n=91), 153 lesions were present, of which 39 female dogs had two or more lesions (42.8%). Most of the lesions were at the caudal abdominal (M4) and inguinal (M5) mammary glands (60.13%, 92/153). Relative to the size of the lesions, it was observed that in 78% of the female dogs the lesions were determined asT1 (<3cm), 16.5% were T2 (3-5cm) and 5.5% T3 (>5cm). At least 15.4% (14/91) of the dogs had one of the regional lymph nodes increased. In conclusion, the occurrence of mammary tumors in the evaluated population was 23.6% and that age, overweight and non-realization of ovariohysterectomy are risk factors associated with the development of mammary tumors.(AU)

Em cadelas os tumores mamários são os mais frequentes e correspondem a aproximadamente metade dos tumores em cães. Este estudo teve os objetivos de determinar os fatores de risco envolvidos na ocorrência de tumores mamários em cadelas e avaliar as características macroscópicas destas neoformações, utilizando 386 cadelas do evento "Outubro Rosa Pets" nos municípios de Uberlândia e Patos de Minas, Minas Gerais, Brasil, em 2015 (n=194), 2016 (n=105) e 2017 (n=87). Para a determinação dos fatores de risco utilizou-se o teste de Regressão logística binária (P<0,05). A ocorrência de tumores mamários foi de 23,6% (91/386). Os fatores de risco significativos identificados foram aumento da idade (P<0,001), sobrepeso (P=0,048) e não-castração (P<0,001) com a chance de, respectivamente, 1,6, 2,3 e 9,3 vezes de desenvolvimento de tumores mamários. Nas cadelas com tumores mamários (n=91), constatou-se a presença de 153 lesões, sendo que 39 cadelas apresentaram duas ou mais lesões (42,8%). A maioria das lesões localizaram-se nas mamas abdominais caudais (M4) e inguinais (M5) (60,13%; 92/153). Em relação ao tamanho das lesões, observou-se que 78% das cadelas eram T1 (<3cm), 16,5% T2 (3-5cm) e 5,5% T3 (>5cm). Pelo menos 15,4% (14/91) das cadelas apresentaram um dos linfonodos regionais aumentados. Conclui-se que a ocorrência dos tumores mamários na população avaliada foi de 23,6% e que a idade, sobrepeso e não ovariohisterectomia são fatores de risco para o desenvolvimento de tumores mamários.(AU)

Mycoplasma bovis and viral agents associated with the development of bovine respiratory disease in adult dairy cows.

The etiology and pathologic findings of bovine respiratory disease (BRD) in adult dairy cows (n = 35) from a commercial dairy herd in Southern Brazil were investigated. Pulmonary samples were examined for histopathologic patterns and specific features within these patterns, while immunohistochemical (IHC) assays were designed to detect the intralesional antigens of viral infectious disease agents and Mycoplasma bovis. Pneumonia was diagnosed in 91.4% (32/35) of these cases; neither pneumonia nor any of the infectious disease pathogens evaluated occurred in three cows. The presence of multiple respiratory pathogens in 75% (24/32) of these cases indicated the complex origin of pneumonia in cattle. Interstitial pneumonia, necrosuppurative bronchopneumonia and suppurative bronchopneumonia were the principal patterns of pulmonary disease identified by histopathology. The most frequent pathogens identified by IHC were bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV; n = 18), M. bovis (n = 16) and bovine alphaherpesvirus type 1 (BoHV-1; n = 14), followed by bovine respiratory syncytial virus (BRSV; n = 11) and bovine parainfluenza virus type 3 (BPIV-3; n = 5). Obliterative bronchiolitis and peribronchial lymphocytic cuffings were the characteristic histopathologic features associated with M. bovis. Necrohemorrhagic bronchitis with bronchial angiogenesis was associated with BoHV-1. Necrotizing bronchitis and bronchiolitis were associated with BVDV, BoHV-1 and BRSV. Ballooning degeneration of the bronchial and bronchiolar epithelia was associated with BRSV and BoHV-1. This is the first report from Brazil that correlated the histopathologic findings of BRD with the associated infectious disease agents by immunohistochemistry. M. bovis was frequently detected in the tissues of cows with fatal pulmonary disease during this study and may be a possible primary disease pathogen associated with the development of BRD in dairy cows. Additionally, the histopathologic features identified within patterns of pulmonary disease during this investigation may be an efficient diagnostic tool to associate histopathologic findings with specific agents of BRD in dairy cows.

The dynamics of individual whey protein concentrations in cows' mammary secretions during the colostral and early lactation periods.

The bovine whey consists of more than 200 different types of proteins, of which ß-lactoglobulin, α-lactalbumin, serum albumin, immunoglobulins and lactoferrin predominate. However, their concentrations are not stable due to the existence of protein dynamics during a transition from colostrum secretion to mature milk. To evaluate the dynamics of whey proteins of Jersey cows during a colostral phase and first month of lactation and an influence of the number of lactations, 268 milk samples from 135 Jersey cows were selected through a clinical evaluation. Whey was obtained by rennet coagulation of the mammary secretion. The concentration of total proteins was determined by the biuret method and their fractions were identified by 12% dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (12% SDS-PAGE). Maximum concentrations of all protein fractions were observed in the first 12 h of lactation, reducing over the course of the study. Modification of the protein predominance was also observed. The transition from colostrum secretion to milk occurred between 24 and 72 h postpartum. There was an influence of the number of lactations on the dynamics of whey proteins, indicating that multiparous cows had better immunological and nutritional quality when compared to primiparous cows.

Prevalence of inflamatory processes in the reproductive tracts of crossbred dairy cows / Prevalência de processos inflamatórios no sistema reprodutivo de vacas leiteiras mestiças

This study evaluated the prevalence of cervicitis and endometritis and their interrelations in crossbred dairy cows that were more than 60 days in milk (DIM), and the efficiency of the cytology technique (cytobrush) and histology as diagnostic methods for these diseases. The reproductive tracts (n=149) derived from cows were collected from a slaughterhouse and grossly evaluated to determine uterine involution and the phase of the estrous cycle. Subsequently, cervical and uterine cytological evaluations were done to characterize the inflammatory response as cervicitis (with a neutrophilic count greater than 5%) or endometritis (with more than 6% neutrophils). Additionally, randomly obtained samples from the cervix and uterus were collected for histological evaluation. Cytological evaluation revealed that the frequency of cervicitis was 6% (9/149), and endometritis was diagnosed in 8.1% (12/149) of the samples; both inflammatory reactions were diagnosed 2.1% (3/149) in three of these. Histological evaluation revealed that of the cows diagnosed with cervicitis by cytology, 66.6% (6/9) had no inflammatory reaction in the cervical mucosa, and 33.3% (3/9) had mild inflammation in this region. Histological evaluation of the uterine horn revealed that of the 12 cows diagnosed with endometritis by cytology, 50% (6/12) of these had a histological diagnosis of mild and moderate inflammatory responses, 8.3% (1/12) of these demonstrated a severe inflammatory response, while no inflammatory reaction was identified in 41.7% (5/12) of the endometrial biopsies evaluated. In conclusion, the endometrial and cervical inflammatory response diagnosed by the cytobrush technique persisted in 12.1% of the cows. Comparatively, the frequency of the inflammatory responses at the cervix and uterus was reduced by histological analysis relative to cytological evaluation with the cytobrush technique.

O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar a prevalência de cervicite e endometrite citológicas e suas inter-relações em vacas leiteiras mestiças com mais de 60 dias pós-parto (DPP), bem como avaliar as técnicas de citologia (cytobrush) e histologia como métodos diagnósticos para estas doenças. Foram utilizados 149 tratos reprodutivos de vacas com mais de 60 DPP de abatedouro e avaliados macroscopicamente para determinar a involução uterina e a fase do ciclo estral. Posteriormente, realizou-se citologia cervical e uterina para o diagnóstico de inflamação utilizando como ponto de corte, contagem de polimorfonucleares (PMN) superior a 5% e 6%, respectivamente, para cervicite e endometrite citológica. Também foram coletadas amostras de cérvix e útero para histologia. Do total de vacas, identificaram-se 6% (9/149) com cervicite e 8,1% (12/149) com endometrite citológica, sendo três destes animais (2,1%) com ambas as inflamações. Histologicamente, dos animais com cervicite citológica, 66,6% (6/9) não apresentaram infiltrado inflamatório na mucosa cervical e 33,3% (3/9) apresentaram inflamação leve. A histologia uterina mostrou que de 12 vacas com endometrite citológica, 50% (6/12) apresentaram infiltrados inflamatórios leves a moderados, 8,3% (1/12) grave e 41,7% (5/12) não tinham Inflamação endometrial. Concluiu-se que a inflamação endometrial e cervical, por meio da técnica de citologia, persistiu em 12,1% das vacas com mais de 60 DPP. Quando se utiliza a histologia como método de diagnóstico, a detecção de inflamação cervical e uterina é inferior ao detectado pela técnica de citologia por meio do esfregaço endometrial (cytobrush).

Retenção de placenta e endometrite subclínica: prevalência e relação com o desempenho reprodutivo de vacas leiteiras mestiças / Retained placenta and subclinical endometritis: prevalence and relation with reproductive performance of crossbred dairy cows

Objetivou-se avaliar os efeitos do tipo de parto (eutócico vs. distócico) e do período do ano (chuvoso vs. seco) sobre a prevalência de retenção de placenta (RP) e de endometrite subclínica (ES), verificar a relação entre as duas patologias, e os efeitos dessas sobre a taxa de descarte, o período de serviço (PS) e número de IA/concepção. A RP foi avaliada no primeiro dia pós-parto (DPP). A citologia endometrial foi realizada entre 30 e 80 DPP, considerando positivos casos contendo acima de 5% de neutrófilos. Os dados foram analisados por regressão logística e análise de variância no programa Minitab (P<0,05). A prevalência de RP foi de 14,93% (69/462) e de ES de 27,49% (127/462). Foi detectada tendência de efeito (P=0,10) da RP sobre a prevalência da ES. Partos distócicos aumentaram a prevalência de RP e vacas que pariram nos meses chuvosos tiveram maior prevalência de ES (P<0,05). A RP elevou a taxa de descarte (P<0,05), a duração do período de serviço (P<0,05) e o número de IA por concepção (P<0,05), enquanto a ES não afetou essas variáveis (P>0,05). Conclui-se que a retenção de placenta tende a ser um fator de risco para endometrite subclínica, distocia predispõe à retenção de placenta e partos ocorridos no período chuvoso aumentam os casos de endometrite subclínica. Há um impacto negativo na eficiência reprodutiva de vacas leiteiras mestiças acometidas por retenção de placenta.(AU)

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of type of calving (eutocic vs. dystocic), season of the year (rainy vs. dry) on retained placenta (RP) and subclinical endometritis (SE) prevalence, to verify the relation between these diseases, as well as its effects on culling rate, days open and number of AI/conception. Retention of fetal membranes was recorded on first day postpartum. Endometrial cytology was performed between 30 and 80 days in milk (DIM) and positive cases were considered ≥5% neutrophils. Data were analysed by logistic regression and analysis of variance on Minitab program (P<0.05). The prevalence of RP was 14.93% (69/462) and of SE was 27.49% (127/462). A tendency of effect of RP on SE prevalence was detected (P=0.10). Dystocia increased RP prevalence (P<0.05). Cows that calved during rainy months had greater SE prevalence (P<0.05). RP increased culling rate (P<0.05), calving to conception interval (P<0.05) and number of AI/conception (P<0.05), although SE occurrence did not affect these variables (P>0.05). In conclusion, RP tended to be a risk factor for SE, dystocia is a predisposing factor for RP and calvings that happens during rainy period increases SE. There is a negative impact on reproductive efficiency of crossbred dairy cows that had retained placenta.(AU)

Molecular survey of infectious agents associated with bovine respiratory disease in a beef cattle feedlot in southern Brazil.

We investigated the occurrence of infectious pathogens during an outbreak of bovine respiratory disease (BRD) in a beef cattle feedlot in southern Brazil that has a high risk of developing BRD. Nasopharyngeal swabs were randomly collected from steers ( n = 23) and assessed for the presence of infectious agents of BRD by PCR and/or RT-PCR assays. These included: Histophilus somni, Mannheimia haemolytica, Pasteurella multocida, Mycoplasma bovis, bovine respiratory syncytial virus (BRSV), bovine coronavirus (BCoV), bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV), bovine alphaherpesvirus 1 (BoHV-1), and bovine parainfluenza virus 3 (BPIV-3). Pulmonary sections of one steer that died with clinical BRD were submitted for pathology and molecular testing. The frequencies of the pathogens identified from the nasopharyngeal swabs were: H. somni 39% (9 of 23), BRSV 35% (8 of 23), BCoV 22% (5 of 23), and M. haemolytica 13% (3 of 23). PCR or RT-PCR assays did not identify P. multocida, M. bovis, BoHV-1, BVDV, or BPIV-3 from the nasopharyngeal swabs. Single and concomitant associations of infectious agents of BRD were identified. Fibrinous bronchopneumonia was diagnosed in one steer that died; samples were positive for H. somni and M. haemolytica by PCR. H. somni, BRSV, and BCoV are important disease pathogens of BRD in feedlot cattle in Brazil, but H. somni and BCoV are probably under-reported.

Bartholin's gland adenoma in a Saanen goat / Adenoma de glândula de Bartholin em cabra da raça Saanen

ABSTRACT: Tumors affecting Bartholin's gland are considered rare in human medicine; there are few reports in the veterinary literature, with descriptions occurring only in cows. This article described the clinical and pathological findings associated with Bartholin's gland adenoma in a goat. Clinically, a 7-year-old pregnant Saanen goat presented bilateral enlargement of the vulva that did not regress spontaneously after parturition. Grossly, these vulvar masses were multilobulated, contained cystic areas from which oozed a whitish fluid. Histopathology revealed an adenoma characterized by the proliferation of irregularly shaped neoplastic epithelial cells that formed tubular to glandular-like structures. These neoplastic cells demonstrated moderate anisokaryosis and evident nucleoli. The intratumoral proliferation index (PI) was estimated by immunoreactivity with the protein ki-67. Further, the glandular-like structures produced a Periodic Acid-Schiff positive secretion. A diagnosis of Bartholin's gland adenoma was established due to the anatomic location of the neoplastic growths, the histopathological features, and the PI of the tumor.

RESUMO: Tumores que afetam a glândula de Bartholin são considerados raros em humanos e há poucos relatos na medicina veterinária, sendo descrito somente em vacas. Este artigo descreve os achados clínicos e patológicos associados ao adenoma na glândula de Bartholin em uma cabra. O animal da raça Saanen, com sete anos de idade e gestante apresentava aumento de volume bilateral na região da vulva, que não regrediu após o parto. Macroscopicamente, a massa era multilobulada, com presença de vários cistos preenchidos por uma secreção esbranquiçada. A histopatologia revelou um adenoma, caracterizado por proliferação de células epiteliais de formato irregular que formavam estruturas tubulares semelhantes à glândulas. Estas células neoplásicas apresentavam anisocariose moderada e nucléolos evidentes. O índice de proliferação celular intratumoral (PI) foi estimado por imunorreatividade à proteína ki-67. Além disso, a secreção produzida por essas estruturas do tipo glandular, foi positiva na coloração do Ácido Periódico-Schiff. O diagnóstico de adenoma da glândula de Bartholin foi estabelecido pela localização anatômica dos tumores neoplásicos, características histopatológicas e à PI do tumor.

Economic losses due to the occurrence of cysticercosis in cattle from cities located in Minas Gerais, Brazil / Perdas econômicas devido à ocorrência de cisticercose em bovinos procedentes de municípios localizados em Minas Gerais, Brasil

ABSTRACT: Cysticercosis represents an important public health problem that can cause significant economic losses to the beef industry. The present study aimed to determine the prevalence rate of cysticercosis in cattle and estimate the economic losses to producers associated with this parasitic disease. Data were collected from the official sanitary inspection service of a slaughterhouse located in the city of Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, southeast Brazil, from 2009 to 2016. A total of 358,383 cattle from 46 cities in Minas Gerais, Brazil, were slaughtered, of which 4,243 were infected with cysticercosis (1.18%). A total of 5,194 cysticerci were detected in these carcasses, of which 4,548 (87.56%) were alive and 646 (12.44%) were calcified. Most of the cysticerci were located in the masseter and pterygoid masticatory muscles (72.41%). As to the classification of cysticercosis according to the degree of infection of organs and/or parts affected, mild infection was the most frequently observed (92.36%). Rural producers had a total of R$ 1,755,204.20 (US$ 537,526.80) of economic losses due to bovine cysticercosis during the time span of eight years covered by this retrospective study. The importance of the sanitary inspection of meat in the control of this major zoonotic diseases is emphasized.

RESUMO: A cisticercose representa um importante problema de saúde pública que pode causar prejuízos econômicos impactantes para a cadeia da carne bovina. Objetivou-se com este estudo determinar a frequência da ocorrência de cisticercose em bovinos e as perdas econômicas aos produtores. Foram coletados dados do serviço de inspeção sanitária oficial de um abatedouro frigorífico de Uberlândia, Estado de Minas Gerais, Brasil, no período de 2009 a 2016. Foram abatidos 358.383 bovinos, provenientes de 46 municípios de Minas Gerais, sendo que destes, 4.243 estavam infectados com cisticercose (1,18%). Foram detectados um total de 5.194 cisticercos, sendo 4.548 (87,56%) vivos e 646 (12,44%) calcificados. A maioria dos cisticercos estava localizada nos músculos mastigatórios masseteres e pterigóides (72,41%). Quanto à classificação da cisticercose, de acordo com o grau de infecção dos órgãos e/ou partes, a infecção discreta foi a que mais ocorreu (92,36%). Verificou-se que os produtores rurais tiveram um total de R$ 1.755.204,20 (US$ 537.526,80) de perdas econômicas durante o período analisado de oito anos devido à ocorrência de cisticercose no rebanho bovino. Destacou-se a importância da inspeção sanitária de carnes, no controle desta importante zoonose.

Short communication: Glutamine modulates inflammatory responses to lipopolysaccharide in ex vivo bovine endometrium.

Bacteria infect the endometrium lining the uterus of cattle after parturition, and clearance of these microbes depends on a robust innate immune response to bacterial molecules, such as the endotoxin lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Endometrial inflammation is characterized by secretion of the cytokines IL-1ß and IL-6 and the chemokine IL-8. However, animals often fail to clear invading bacteria and develop uterine disease if they are in negative energy balance, with reduced abundance of glucose and glutamine, which are substrates for energy in tissues. Depletion of glucose blunts inflammatory responses in the endometrium, but the role of glutamine is not clear. The present study tested the hypothesis that depletion of glutamine compromises inflammatory responses to LPS in endometrial tissue. Ex vivo organ cultures of endometrium were challenged with LPS, and culture supernatants accumulated IL-1ß, IL-6, and IL-8, as expected. However, reducing the availability of glutamine in culture medium containing glucose reduced the accumulation of IL-1ß, IL-6, and IL-8 by >50%. Surprisingly, in the absence of glucose, supplying increasing amounts of glutamine was not sufficient to augment inflammatory responses to LPS, whereas, in the absence of glutamine, supplying more glucose increased inflammation. Furthermore, inhibiting glycolysis reduced the accumulation of IL-1ß, IL-6, and IL-8 by >50%, even when glutamine and glucose were abundant. In conclusion, depletion of glutamine reduces inflammatory responses to LPS in the endometrium, and the activity of glutamine depends on glucose and glycolysis. These data provide mechanistic insights into how negative energy balance may be linked to postpartum uterine disease.

Bovine respiratory disease complex associated mortality and morbidity rates in feedlot cattle from southeastern Brazil.

INTRODUCTION: A feedlot is an intensive farming system for finishing livestock. Bovine respiratory disease (BRD) is a cause of morbidity and mortality in beef cattle, especially in feedlots. METHODOLOGY: This study investigated the morbidity and mortality of BRD in a beef cattle feedlot in southeastern Brazil using: clinical diagnoses, therapy, morbidity, and mortality. Pulmonary fragments were collected from five steers, on feed from 3-32 days, with lesions of pneumonia for identification of BRD infectious agents PCR. RESULTS: 188,862 steers were on feed and morbidity was 7.05% (13,315/188,862), mortality 0.64% (1,214/188,862). The causes of morbidity were: BRD (6.13%), lameness (0.29%), trauma (0.21%), clostridiosis (0.13%) and polioencephalomalacia, PEM (0.12%). The causes of mortality were: BRD (0.21%), trauma (0.17%), and clostridiosis (0.13%). When all sick cattle were considered (n=13,315), BRD (86.9%) was the principal cause of morbidity, followed by lameness (4.13%), trauma (3.05%), and clostridiosis (1.82%). The cost of BRD-associated cattle mortality and morbidity was estimated at $14,334.00/10,000 and $16,315.40/10,000 respectively. It was projected that the economic effects due to BRD-associated morbidity in Brazil were $6.31 million/annum, while losses due to mortality were $5.54 million, resulting in an annual loss of $11.85 million. Coinfections in cattle with pneumonia due to Mannheimia haemolytica and Pasteurella multocida were identified in 4/5 steers tested. CONCLUSIONS: This is the first longitudinal study that investigated the incidence of BRD in feedlot cattle from Brazil, and the results herein described indicate that BRD contributed significantly to the development of mortality and morbidity of cattle on feed.

Seroepidemiology ofLeishmaniaspp. in equids from Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil / Soroepidemiologia de Leishmania spp. em equídeos de Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brasil

ABSTRACT: This study evaluated the occurrence of Leishmania spp. in equids from Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Southeastern Brazil. Serum samples from 257 healthy equids of Uberlândia were assessed for the presence of antibodies against Leishmania spp. by using the indirect fluorescent-antibody test. Additionally, an epidemiological survey was done to evaluate the possible risk factors (species of equids, age, gender, economic activity, and contact with domestic and wild animals) associated with the presence of antibodies against Leishmania spp. The total seroprevalence against Leishmania spp. was 24.1% (62/257); representing seroprevalence levels of 22.7% (55/242) in horses, 50% (4/8) in mules, and 42.9% (3/7) in ponies from all regions evaluated. The species of equid was the only factor that contributed to an elevated seroprevalence of Leishmania spp.

RESUMO: O estudo avaliou a ocorrência de Leishmania spp. em equídeos do município de Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, região Sudeste do Brasil. Amostras de soro foram coletadas de 257 equideos clinicamente saudáveis em Uberlândia, para avaliar a presença de anticorpos contra Leishmania spp. pela técnica de reação de imunofluorescência indireta - RIFI. Afora isto, um inquérito epidemiológico foi realizado para avaliar possíveis fatores de risco (espécie, idade, sexo, atividade econômica e contato com animais domésticos e selvagens) associado com a presença de anticorpos contra Leishmania spp. A soroprevalência total contra Leishmania spp. foi 24,1% (62/257), representando 22,7% (55/242) de equinos, 50% (4/8) de mulas e 42,9%(3/7) de pôneis. A variável espécie foi o único fator de risco significativo na soroprevalência da Leishmania spp.

Cryptococcus neoformans var. grubii-Induced Arthritis with Encephalitic Dissemination in a Dog and Review of Published Literature.

This article describes the clinical, pathological, and immunohistochemical findings associated with Cryptococcus neoformans var. grubii in a 4-year-old female Boxer dog from Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Southeastern Brazil. Clinically, there was a swelling at the right metatarsal region and the hock joint with enlargement of regional lymph nodes. Radiographical evaluation revealed lysis of the tarsal bone; cytology demonstrated cryptococcal intralesional organisms at the swollen joint. Despite empirical antifungals therapeutic, the animal developed neurological cryptococcosis and died spontaneously. Significant pathological alterations included arthritis, lymphadenitis, and encephalitic cryptococcomas associated with numerous intralesional narrow-necked budding encapsulated yeasts. Immunohistochemistry utilising monoclonal antibodies that label C. neoformans sp. complex capsule, characterised the yeasts as C. neoformans var. grubii. Collectively, the pathological and immunohistochemical findings of this dog indicate that the intralesional organisms observed within the articular surface of the hock joint, lymph nodes, and the brain were C. neoformans var. grubii, confirming the participation of this fungal pathogen in the development of cryptococcal arthritis. In this case, the most likely pathogenesis was percutaneous inoculation with resultant abscess-like lesion, which resulted in the draining sinus, swelling of the right hind limb with progression to the articular disease. Thereafter, the fungal pathogen probably compromised the adjacent lymph nodes with subsequent haematogenous distribution to the brain, terminating with cryptococcal arthritis, lymphadenitis, and encephalitis.

Citologia e histologia endometrial em gatas clinicamente saudáveis / Endometrial cytology and histology in clinically healthy cats

Com objetivo de estabelecer valores de referência para a citologia endometrial e avaliar histologicamente o endométrio de gatas clinicamente saudáveis e sem patologias uterinas, foram coletados 22 úteros de gatas que passaram por ovariohisterectomia eletiva. Após avaliação macroscópica dos úteros, coletou-se mostra para citologia endometrial pela técnica de escova endometrial (cytobrush) e fragmento para avaliação histológica. Quanto à apresentação das glândulas endometriais, 31,8% (7/22) das gatas apresentaram lâmina própria com poucas camadas de glândulas tubulares simples, revestidas por epitélio simples cúbico ou cilíndrico baixo, com diâmetro reduzido e sem secreção no seu lúmen. Proliferação glandular com algumas glândulas apresentando conteúdo no lúmen foi observada em 36,4% (8/22) dos animais. Presença de intensa proliferação glandular com glândulas revestidas por epitélio simples pavimentoso, a maioria com atividade secretora, foi observada em 31,8% (7/22) das gatas, sendo que em cinco destas verificou-se aparência cística com pronunciada dilatação glandular. A citologia endometrial, na leitura de 200 células, obteve os seguintes resultados: neutrófilos (10,77 ± 7,51), eosinófilos (1,93 ± 2,67), basófilos (0), linfócitos (6,58 ± 8,49), macrófagos (0,79 ± 2,05) e células de descamação (79,93 ± 11,44). Concluiu-se que em gatas clinicamente saudáveis há maior proporção de leucócitos na citologia endometrial quando comparado com outras espécies, mesmo quando não se evidencia inflamação na avaliação histológica. A colheita de material para citologia endometrial pela técnica de cytobrush apresenta celularidade satisfatória e sem presença de debris celulares em gatas.

This study evaluated the endometrial cytology and histology of clinically healthy cats without any uterine alteration in an attempt to establish reference parameters in dogs. Uteri were collected from 22 cats submitted to elective ovariohysterectomy. All uteri were macroscopically evaluated, after which an endometrial sample was obtained for cytological analysis using the endometrial brush (cytobrush) technique and a tissue fragment routinely processed for histological evaluation. Histological evaluation revealed that the endometrial glands of some 31.8% (7/22) cats consisted of a lamina propria with few layers of simple tubular glands, lined by simple cubical epithelium, with reduced diameter and without luminal secretion. Glandular proliferation with luminal content was observed in 36.4% (8/22) of the animals evaluated. The presence of intense proliferation with glandular glands lined by squamous simple epithelium, most with secretory activity was observed in 31.8% (7/22) of cats; in five of these, there was pronounced cystic glandular dilatation. The endometrial cytology of 200 cells revealed the following results: neutrophils (10.77 ± 7.51), eosinophils (1.93 ± 2.67), basophils (0), lymphocytes (6.58 ± 8.49), monocytes (0.79 ± 2.05), and cell shedding (79.93 ± 11.44). It was concluded that clinically healthy cats have a greater percentage of leukocytes in endometrial cytology when compared with other species, even when there is no evidence of inflammation by histological evaluation. The collection of material for endometrial cytology using the cytobrush technique provides adequate cellularity and without the presence of cellular debris in cats.

Incidence of subclinical endometritis and its effects on reproductive performance of crossbred dairy cows.

In dairy cattle, uterine infections are not life threatening and often unavoidable; however, they reduce fertility and increase the production costs of properties. The aim of this study was to evaluate the incidence of subclinical endometritis from 32 to 70 days in milk (DIM) and its effects on the reproductive performance of crossbred dairy cows. Lactating cows (Holstein/Gir; n = 172), with no history of retained placenta, without clinical signs of uterine infection were used. The body condition score (BCS) was evaluated on a scale from 1 to 5. Ultrasound examination was performed to evaluate uterine lining and ovarian activity, while vaginal mucus was analyzed by gloved hand. The diagnosis of subclinical endometritis was performed by endometrial cytobrush technique. The samples were collected, stained, and examined microscopically; positive cases for subclinical endometritis were considered with the presence of ≥5 % of neutrophils. Later, the cows were submitted to conventional artificial insemination or timed artificial insemination. The incidence of subclinical endometritis in the herd was 26 %, and this was not affected by the season of calving, presence of corpus luteum, DIM, and parity. Cows with a BCS ≤2.50 had a higher incidence of subclinical endometritis. The conception rate to first insemination and pregnancy rate at 150 days postpartum were not influenced by the presence of subclinical endometritis in crossbred dairy cows.

Retenção de placenta no proteinograma de vacas Holandesas / Retained placenta on the proteinogram of Holstein cows

Com o objetivo de avaliar a influência da retenção de placenta (RP) no proteinograma de fêmeas bovinas da raça Holandesa, de propriedades comerciais, foram utilizadas 129 vacas com RP e 145 vacas com parto e pós-parto fisiológicos e sem nenhum tratamento no período avaliado. As amostras de sangue foram divididas nos momentos: 1odia pós-parto (DPP), 2o-3o, 4o-5o, 6o-7o, 8o-14o, 15o-29o, 30o-59o e 60o-90o DPP. O fracionamento das proteínas foi realizado por eletroforese em fita de acetato de celulose e em gel de poliacrilamida, contendo dodecil sulfato de sódio (SDS-PAGE), nas quais se avaliou o comportamento de 19 bandas proteicas identificadas pelos respectivos pesos moleculares, que variaram entre 23KDa e 187KDa. Não houve influência da RP na proteína sérica total e gamaglobulinas. A albumina sérica permaneceu abaixo dos valores de referência até os 90DPP nos animais com RP. Concluiu-se que vacas Holandesas com RP apresentam um quadro de normoproteinemia com hipoalbuminemia e aumento das frações alfaglobulinas e betaglobulinas até os 90DPP, presença de resposta inflamatória de fase aguda positiva pelo significativo aumento de haptoglobina, ceruloplasmina, glicoproteína ácida, e de fase aguda negativa pela diminuição de albumina na primeira semana pós-parto.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of retained placenta on the proteinogram of Holstein cows from commercial dairy farms. Blood samples were collected from 129 animals with retained placenta (RP) and 145 animals with normal delivery and postpartum period, without any treatment, on following days: 1 st day in milk (DIM), 2 nd -3 th , 4 th -5 th , 6 th -7 th , 8 th -14 th , 15 th -29 th , 30 th -59 th and 60 th -90 th DIM were analyzed. Protein electrophoresis were performed in acetate cellulose and sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrilamide gel (SDS-PAGE), where 19 protein bands were observed with molecular weights between 23KDa and 187KDa. There was no influence on serum total protein and gamma globulins. Serum albumin remained below the normal reference values up to 90DIM. In conclusion, Holstein cows with RP have normoproteinemia with hypoalbuminemia up to 90DIM, presence of positive acute phase response by increase of haptoglobin, ceruloplasmin, acid glycoprotein, alpha and beta globulins and negative acute phase response by decreased of albumin within the first week postpartum.