Ocorrência de sorogrupos/sorovares de Leptospira spp. em cães com suspeita clínica de leptospirose em Santa Maria ­ RS / Occurrence of serogroups/serovars of Leptospira spp. in dogs with clinical suspicion of leptospirosis in Santa Maria ­ RS

A leptospirose é uma zoonose de distribuição mundial que pode acometer cães e ser altamente letal para a espécie. No Brasil, tal enfermidade tem caráter endêmico na espécie canina e configura-se como um sério problema de saúde pública. Objetivou-se verificar a ocorrência dos sorogrupos/sorovares de Leptospira spp. que mais acometem cães com suspeita clínica de leptospirose na cidade de Santa Maria ­ RS, Brasil, analisando sua titulação de anticorpos. No estudo, utilizou-se os laudos dos exames de soroaglutinação microscópica (SAM) para leptospirose de 218 cães provenientes da cidade de Santa Maria ­ RS durante o período de janeiro de 2015 a dezembro de 2019. Todos os laudos foram emitidos pelo Laboratório de Leptospirose (LabLepto - UFSM). Das 218 amostras de soro processadas nos cinco anos, 101 (46,33%) resultaram positivas para, pelo menos, um sorogrupo/sorovar testado. Este estudo demonstrou maior ocorrência do sorogrupo Icterohaemorrhagiae (53,37%) contemplado pelas sorovares Copenhageni e Icterohaemorrhagiae, com 49 (30,06%) e 38 (23,31%) soros reagentes, respectivamente. As titulações variaram de 100 a 6400, sendo que a mais recorrente encontrada nas amostras deste estudo foi 100, representando 47,85% dos títulos de anticorpos. Os dados obtidos neste estudo são de grande valia para o conhecimento dos sorogrupos/sorovares circulantes na região e sua epidemiologia podendo, inclusive, auxiliar para futuras formulações vacinais considerando sorogrupos/sorovares mais frequentemente detectados, contribuindo, assim, com a saúde pública.

Leptospirosis is a worldwide distribution zoonosis that can affect dogs and be highly lethal for the species. In Brazil, this disease is endemic in the canine species and represents a serious public health problem. The aim of this study was to verify the occurrence of Leptospira spp. that most affect dogs with clinical suspicion of leptospirosis in the city of Santa Maria ­ RS, Brazil, analyzing their antibody titers. In the study, we used the reports of microscopic agglutination tests (MAS) for leptospirosis in 218 dogs from the city of Santa Maria - RS during the period from January 2015 to December 2019. All reports were issued by the Leptospirosis Laboratory (LabLepto - UFSM). Of the 218 serum samples processed over the five years, 101 (46.33%) were positive for at least one serogroup/serovar tested. This study showed a higher occurrence of serogroup Icterohaemorrhagiae (53.37%) covered by serovars Copenhageni and Icterohaemorrhagiae, with 49 (30.06%) and 38 (23.31%) reagent sera, respectively. The titers ranged from 100 to 6400, and the most recurrent found in the samples in this study was 100, representing 47.85% of the antibody titers. The data obtained in this study are of great value for understanding the serogroups/serovars circulating in the region and their epidemiology, and may even contribute to future vaccine formulations considering the most frequently detected serogroups/serovars, thus contributing to public health.

Occurrence of Leptospira spp. and factors associated with the infection in horses from a military contingent in the Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil / Ocorrência de Leptospira spp. e fatores associados à infecção em equinos de contingente militar no estado do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil

The seroprevalence of Leptospira spp. and infection risk factors were investigated in horses from a military contingent in the Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil. A total of 446 horses were evaluated and categorized into 309 mares, 11 stallions, and 126 horses with an average age of three years. To determine seroprevalence, serum samples from all horses were submitted to the microscopic agglutination test against 12 serovars belonging to nine serogroups, usually circulating in equine populations. To investigate the possible risk factors of infection by Leptospira spp., questionnaires were applied in that military unit. The seroprevalence in the horses with an average age of 3 years, mares, and stallions were 57.94% (73/126), 54.05% (165/309), and 45.45% (5/11), respectively. The main risk factors identified were contact with different water sources, the presence of rodents, and contact with wild and domestic animals. The high seroprevalence of anti­Leptospira spp. antibodies may be associated with the presence of these risk factors. Therefore, the exposure of horses to possible reservoirs of Leptospira spp. should be minimized. Also, the immunoprophylaxis protocol should be reviewed and a shorter interval between vaccinations adopted to control leptospirosis in this herd.(AU)

A soroprevalência de Leptospira spp. e os fatores de risco para infecção foram investigados em cavalos de um contingente militar no Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. Um total de 446 cavalos foram avaliados e categorizados em 309 éguas, 11 garanhões e 126 cavalos com idade média de três anos. Para determinação da soroprevalência, amostras de soro de todos os equinos foram submetidas ao teste de aglutinação microscópica contra 12 sorovares pertencentes a nove sorogrupos, normalmente circulantes em populações equinas. Para investigar os possíveis fatores de risco da infecção por Leptospira spp., foi aplicado um questionário naquela unidade militar. A soroprevalência nos cavalos com idade média de três anos, éguas e garanhões foi de 57,94% (73/126), 54,05% (165/309) e 45,45% (5/11), respectivamente. Os principais fatores de risco identificados foram o contato com diferentes fontes de água, a presença de roedores e o contato com animais silvestres e domésticos. A alta soroprevalência de anticorpos anti­Leptospira spp. pode estar associada à presença desses fatores de risco. Portanto, a exposição destes equinos aos possíveis reservatórios de Leptospira spp. deve ser minimizada. Além disso, o protocolo de imunoprofilaxia deve ser revisto e, possivelmente, um menor intervalo entre as vacinas deve ser adotado para o controle da leptospirose neste plantel.(AU)

Leptospira spp. in horses in southern Brazil: Seroprevalence, infection risk factors, and influence on reproduction.

Leptospirosis in horses is often associated with reproductive disorders. In the southern states of Brazil, horses are used for various jobs and cultural practices; nevertheless, serological surveillance for Leptospira is rare. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine the seroprevalence of Leptospira spp. in horses in southern Brazil, as well as to identify the risk factors for infection and its impacts on reproduction. We performed microscopic agglutination tests for 12 serovars that corresponding 9 serogroup (Sejroe, Icterohaemorrhagiae, Australis, Pyrogenes, Pomona, Canicola, Grippotyphosa, Tarassovi and Ballum) in 595 samples from 60 herds. A brief history was obtained to analyze risk factors for reproductive disorders. A total of 45.9% of the tested horses were seropositive, of which the most frequent serogroups were Icterohaemorrhagiae (Icterohaemorrhagiae and Copenhageni serovars) and Ballum (Ballum serovar). Simple infections were found in 45.4% of seropositive animals, while mixed infections occurred in 54.6% of horses. There was a correlation between seropositivity and age and sex, that is, seropositivity was more frequent in animals over 6 years old and in females. There was no correlation between seropositivity and reproductive disorders. We conclude that there is a high seroprevalence of Leptospira spp. in southern Brazil with predominance of Icterohaemorrhagiae serogroup, mainly in older animals. Location, breeds, contact with dogs or other domestic animals are not risk factors, whereas gender is a risk factor. Reproductive disorders are not due to leptospirosis in the study region.

Frequency of leptospirosis in horses in Manaus and metropolitan region in Amazonas State, Brazil / Frequência de leptospirose em equinos de Manaus e região metropolitana no estado do Amazonas, Brasil

The occurrence of leptospirosis is significantly higher in the tropical climate than in temperate regions, especially in periods with high rainfall levels. In horses, leptospirosis can range from subclinical to asymptomatic but maintains an important role in the transmission of leptospirosis by eliminating the agent in the environment. Regarding horses, the Amazonas herd increased by 30% between 2004 and 2013. Thus, the study aimed to determine the serological prevalence of leptospirosis in horses in Manaus and metropolitan regions, in the State of Amazonas, Brazil as well as to assess the main serogroups involved in the infections of these animals. For this purpose, from August 2018 to July 2019, serum from 198 horses was evaluated through the microscopic agglutination test with a panel of 10 serogroups. As a result, 92 horses (44.46%) were found to be positive for one or more Leptospira serovars, with the highest prevalence of serogroups Icterohaemorrhagiae and Pyrogenes. Therefore, with the increase in the equine herd in the region and, consequently, greater interaction between breeders and animals, the identification of reagents to at least one serovar of Leptospira spp. signals the possible existence of reservoirs of pathogenic strains for other animals and man.(AU)

A ocorrência de leptospirose é significativamente maior no clima tropical do que nas regiões temperadas, especialmente em períodos com altos níveis de chuva. Em cavalos, a leptospirose pode variar de subclínica a assintomática, mas estes animais podem desempenhar um papel importante na transmissão da leptospirose por meio da eliminação do agente no ambiente. Em relação aos cavalos, entre os anos de 2004 e 2013, o rebanho Amazônico aumentou 30%. Assim, o objetivo do estudo foi determinar a prevalência sorológica de leptospirose em cavalos em Manaus e região metropolitana, estado do Amazonas, Brasil, bem como, determinar os principais sorogrupos envolvidos nas infecções desses animais. Para este propósito, entre agosto de 2018 e julho de 2019, foram colhidos soros de 198 cavalos para serem avaliados sorologicamente com o teste de microaglutinação microscópica, utilizando-se um painel de dez sorogrupos. Como resultado, observou-se que 92 cavalos (44,46%) foram positivos para um ou mais sorovares de Leptospira, com maior prevalência dos sorogrupos Icterohaemorrhagiae e Pyrogenes. Portanto, com o aumento do rebanho equino na região e, consequentemente, maior interação entre criadores e animais, a identificação de reagentes para pelo menos um sorovar de Leptospira spp. alerta para a possível existência de reservatórios de cepas patogênicas para outros animais e seres humanos.(AU)

Relation of reproductive disturbance in sheep and Leptospira interrogans serovar Icterohaemorrhagiae infection: Impacts on cellular oxidation status.

This study evaluated the seropositivity of Brucella abortus and Leptospira interrogans in ewes with reproductive disturbances in southern Brazil and verified the creatine kinase (CK) activity and oxidation status via assessment of superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase and glutathione transferase in serum of seropositive animals for L. interrogans serovar Icterohaemorrhagiae. For Leptospira infection 381 animals with clinical history of reproductive disturbance from Planalto Serrano de Santa Catarina (Brazil) were analyzed, showing an occurrence for L. interrogans of 20.2% from which 81.8% were seropositive for L. interrogans Icterohaemorrhagiae. Serovars Wolfii, Grippothyphosa, Bratislava, Canicola and Butembo were also identified. In the case of B. abortus, positive cases were identified by buffered acidified antigen, finding 14 positive samples, but none of them were positive after a second test (2-mercaptoethanol), showing the absence of relationship between infection with B. abortus and abortion in the tested individuals. Serum reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and CK activity were found higher in animals positive for Leptospira infection, presenting higher titrations (1:320) than non-infected individuals. Serum glutathione peroxidase activity was higher in positive animals with titrations 1:160 and 1:320, while serum glutathione S-transferase was higher in positive individuals only for titrations 1:320. Serum superoxide dismutase showed lower activity in infected animals with titrations of 1:320. Our results show the region of Planalto Serrano de Santa Catarina with a high occurrence levels of sheep infected by L. interrogans serovar Icterohaemorrhagiae, from which animals with high titrations (1:320) present oxidative stress elicited by excessive ROS production, triggering the stimulation of antioxidant systems to counter this excess. In summary, ovine with higher titrations (1:320) present oxidative damage that can contribute to disease pathophysiology.

Immune response of a commercial vaccine against Leptospira interrogans: Antibodies and cytokine levels.

Good vaccines should confer protection against specific pathogens in experimental and field conditions. However, some commercial vaccines are not capable to confer protection to animals, being inefficient in a bovine vaccine program. In this sense, the aim of this study was to evaluate the antibody levels involved in the immune response in vaccinated cows against leptospirosis, as well as acute phase protein and the immunological markers in a vaccine program in beef cattle. Twenty non-lactating cows, negative for leptospirosis and without vaccination against this disease were evaluated during five months. The herd was divided into two groups named as A (the control group) and B (the vaccinated group). Ten cows from the group B received an initial dose (5 mL) of vaccine on day 0 and one booster dose (5 mL) on day 29. In order to evaluate humoral response (MAT - titration 1:25), cytokine levels (tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and interleukin-10 (IL-10)), and C-reactive protein levels (an acute phase protein), blood samples were evaluated on days 0, 29, 40, 83 and 144 after vaccination. In none of the evaluated periods it was observed specific antibodies to any of the six serovars presents in the vaccine, as well as no difference between groups regarding cytokine and C-reactive protein levels. Therefore, the vaccine used did not stimulate the immune response of cattle, inferring the absence of protection against infections by L. interrogans.

Epidemiological status of felid herpesvirus type-1 and feline calicivirus infections in Brazil / Situação epidemiológica das infecções pelo herpesvírus felino tipo 1 e calicivírus no Brasil

Feline calicivirus (FCV) and felid herpesvirus type-1 (FeHV-1) are the main infectious agents of domestic and wild felines worldwide. The FCV and FeHV-1 viruses were isolated in Brazil in 1988 and 2012, respectively. Serology surveys were performed among domestic feline in the State of Rio Grande do Sul and among wild felines in central Brazilian States. Felines with acute or chronic infections may become carriers for both viruses and, viral transmission occurs mainly by ocular and nasal secretions. In addition, FCV may be transmitted by oropharyngeal secretion and fomites. The clinical signs commonly observed in cats are fever, sneezing, coughing and nasal and ocular discharge; however, oral lesions are restricted to FCV infection. A systemic syndrome showing hemorrhagic lesions, alopecia, facial edema and jaundice has been associated with FCV. Attenuated as well as inactivated vaccines against FCV and FeHV-1 were developed in the middle 1970s, and they are effective at reducing the presentation/development of the diseases, but they are not capable of eliminating the persistence of FCV and FeHV-1. This article presents a brief review of the main aspects of the FCV and FeHV-1 infections, with an emphasis in the current situation on the domestic feline population from Brazil.

Calicivírus felino (feline calicivirus - FCV) e herpesvírus felino tipo - 1 (felid herpesvirus type 1 - FeHV-1) são os principais agentes envolvidos descritos mundialmente infectando felinos domésticos e selvagens. No Brasil, o FCV e o FeHV-1 foram isolados e caracterizados em 1988 e 2012, respectivamente. Estudos sorológicos em felinos domésticos foram realizados no estado do Rio Grande do Sul e em felinos selvagens em alguns estados da região central do país. Felinos com infecção aguda e/ou infecção crônica podem tornar-se portadores, para ambos os vírus, e a transmissão ocorre principalmente por secreções oculares, nasais. Além disso, o FCV pode também ser transmitido por secreções orofaringeanas e fômites. Os sinais clínicos comumente observados em felinos afetados são: febre, espirros, tosse, descarga nasal e ocular; lesões orais se restringem à infecção pelo FCV; além disso, foi descrita uma síndrome sistêmica que apresenta um quadro hemorrágico, alopecia, edema de face e icterícia. Vacinas vivas e inativadas que amenizam o quadro clínico, mas não previnem infecções persistentes pelos vírus, foram desenvolvidas nos anos 70. Este artigo apresenta uma breve revisão dos principais aspectos da infecção pelo FCV e FeHV-1, com ênfase na atual situação na população de felinos domésticos do Brasil.

In vitro inhibition of the bovine viral diarrhoea virus by the essential oil of Ocimum basilicum (basil) and monoterpenes.

The bovine viral diarrhoea virus (BVDV) is suggested as a model for antiviral studies of the hepatitis C virus (HCV). The antiviral activity of the essential oil of Ocimum basilicum and the monoterpenes camphor, thymol and 1,8-cineole against BVDV was investigated. The cytotoxicities of the compounds were measured by the MTT (3-(4.5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2.5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) test, and the antiviral activities were tested by the plaque reduction assay. The oil or compounds were added to the assay in three different time points: a) pre-treatment of the virus (virucidal assay); b) pre-treatment of the cells; or c) post-treatment of the cells (after virus inoculation). The percentage of plaques inhibition for each compound was determined based on the number of plaques in the viral control. The results were expressed by CC50 (50% cytotoxic concentration), IC50 (inhibitory concentration for 50% of plaques) and SI (selectivity index = CC50/IC50). Camphor (CC50 = 4420.12 µg mL(-1)) and 1,8-cineole (CC50 = 2996.10 µg mL(-1)) showed the lowest cytotoxicities and the best antiviral activities (camphor SI = 13.88 and 1,8-cineol SI = 9.05) in the virucidal assay. The higher activities achieved by the monoterpenes in the virucidal assay suggest that these compounds act directly on the viral particle.

In vitro inhibition of the bovine viral diarrhoea virus by the essential oil of Ocimum basilicum (basil) and monoterpenes

The bovine viral diarrhoea virus (BVDV) is suggested as a model for antiviral studies of the hepatitis C virus (HCV). The antiviral activity of the essential oil of Ocimum basilicum and the monoterpenes camphor, thymol and 1,8-cineole against BVDV was investigated. The cytotoxicities of the compounds were measured by the MTT (3-(4.5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2.5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) test, and the antiviral activities were tested by the plaque reduction assay. The oil or compounds were added to the assay in three different time points: a) pre-treatment of the virus (virucidal assay); b) pre-treatment of the cells; or c) post-treatment of the cells (after virus inoculation). The percentage of plaques inhibition for each compound was determined based on the number of plaques in the viral control. The results were expressed by CC50 (50% cytotoxic concentration), IC50 (inhibitory concentration for 50% of plaques) and SI (selectivity index = CC50/IC50). Camphor (CC50 = 4420.12 µgmL-1) and 1,8-cineole (CC50 = 2996.10 µgmL-1) showed the lowest cytotoxicities and the best antiviral activities (camphor SI = 13.88 and 1,8-cineol SI = 9.05) in the virucidal assay. The higher activities achieved by the monoterpenes in the virucidal assay suggest that these compounds act directly on the viral particle.

Isolation and identification of feline calicivirus and feline herpesvirus in Southern Brazil

Feline calicivirus (FCV) and feline herpesvirus type 1 (FHV-1) are the two primary causes of upper respiratory tract disease in cats. The aim of this study was to demonstrate the distribution of FCV and FHV-1 among the feline population of several counties in Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil. To this end, conjunctival and nasal swabs were collected from 302 cats from different locations, including households, breeding catteries, veterinary clinics, animal hospitals and experimental research facilities. The samples were collected between July 2006 to June 2009. The virus isolation was performed in CRFK cells and, subsequently, the identification was confirmed by PCR. FCV, FHV-1, or both were isolated from 55 cats from 28 different locations. FCV alone was isolated from 52.7% (29/55) of the animals that tested positively, FHV-1 alone was isolated from 38.2% (21/55) of the animals that tested positively, and co-infection were detected in 9.1% (5/55) of the animals that tested positively. Virus detection was more prevalent in cats that were less than 1 year old, among animals that shared a living space with other cats, and females. FCV and FHV-1 were isolated from vaccinated cats. In addition, both viruses were isolated from cats that showed no signs of disease. The results suggest that a carrier state is common for both viruses in the evaluated population. A search for other causes of respiratory disease in that population is necessary; and further studies relating to the molecular characterization of viruses and vaccine efficacy are also necessary.

Isolation and identification of feline calicivirus and feline herpesvirus in Southern Brazil.

Feline calicivirus (FCV) and feline herpesvirus type 1 (FHV-1) are the two primary causes of upper respiratory tract disease in cats. The aim of this study was to demonstrate the distribution of FCV and FHV-1 among the feline population of several counties in Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil. To this end, conjunctival and nasal swabs were collected from 302 cats from different locations, including households, breeding catteries, veterinary clinics, animal hospitals and experimental research facilities. The samples were collected between July 2006 to June 2009. The virus isolation was performed in CRFK cells and, subsequently, the identification was confirmed by PCR. FCV, FHV-1, or both were isolated from 55 cats from 28 different locations. FCV alone was isolated from 52.7% (29/55) of the animals that tested positively, FHV-1 alone was isolated from 38.2% (21/55) of the animals that tested positively, and co-infection were detected in 9.1% (5/55) of the animals that tested positively. Virus detection was more prevalent in cats that were less than 1 year old, among animals that shared a living space with other cats, and females. FCV and FHV-1 were isolated from vaccinated cats. In addition, both viruses were isolated from cats that showed no signs of disease. The results suggest that a carrier state is common for both viruses in the evaluated population. A search for other causes of respiratory disease in that population is necessary; and further studies relating to the molecular characterization of viruses and vaccine efficacy are also necessary.

Antiviral activity of the Lippia graveolens (Mexican oregano) essential oil and its main compound carvacrol against human and animal viruses

Mexican oregano (Lippia graveolens) is a plant found in Mexico and Central America that is traditionally used as a medicinal herb. In the present study, we investigated the antiviral activity of the essential oil of Mexican oregano and its major component, carvacrol, against different human and animal viruses. The MTT test (3-4,5-dimethythiazol-2yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide) was conducted to determine the selectivity index (SI) of the essential oil, which was equal to 13.1, 7.4, 10.8, 9.7, and 7.2 for acyclovir-resistant herpes simplex virus type 1 (ACVR-HHV-1), acyclovir-sensitive HHV-1, human respiratory syncytial virus (HRSV), bovine herpesvirus type 2 (BoHV-2), and bovine viral diarrhoea virus (BVDV), respectively. The human rotavirus (RV) and BoHV-1 and 5 were not inhibited by the essential oil. Carvacrol alone exhibited high antiviral activity against RV with a SI of 33, but it was less efficient than the oil for the other viruses. Thus, Mexican oregano oil and its main component, carvacrol, are able to inhibit different human and animal viruses in vitro. Specifically, the antiviral effects of Mexican oregano oil on ACVR-HHV-1 and HRSV and of carvacrol on RV justify more detailed studies.

Atividade antiviral do extrato de própolis contra o calicivírus felino, adenovírus canino 2 e vírus da diarréia viral bovina / Antiviral activity of propolis extracts against feline calicivirus, canine adenovirus 2, and bovine viral diarrhea virus

Dentre as propriedades biológicas da própolis, a atividade antimicrobiana tem merecido destacada atenção. Neste artigo, descreve-se a atividade antiviral de dois extratos etanólicos de própolis (EP1 e EP2) frente aos vírus: calicivírus felino (FCV), adenovírus canino tipo 2 (CAV-2) e vírus da diarréia viral bovina (BVDV). Um dos extratos (EP1) foi obtido por extração etanólica de própolis obtida da região central do Estado do Rio Grande do Sul e o segundo (EP2), obtido comercialmente de uma empresa de Minas Gerais. A análise dos extratos de própolis através da cromatografia líquida de alta eficiência (CLAE) identificou a presença de flavonóides como: rutina, quercetina e ácido gálico. A atividade antiviral bem como a citotoxicidade dos extratos aos cultivos celulares foram avaliadas através do MTT [3- (4,5 dimetiltiazol-2yl)-2-5-difenil-2H tetrazolato de bromo]. Ambos os extratos evidenciaram atividade antiviral frente ao BVDV e CAV-2 quando acrescidos ao cultivo celular anteriormente à inoculação viral. Os extratos foram menos efetivos contra o FCV em comparação aos resultados obtidos com os outros vírus, e a atividade antiviral neste caso foi observada apenas quando a própolis estava presente após a inoculação viral. O extrato obtido no laboratório (EP1) apresentou valores mais altos de índice de seletividade (IS=CC50/ CE50), quando comparado à outra amostra (EP2). Em resumo, a própolis apresentou atividade antiviral frente a três diferentes vírus, o que a torna alvo para o desenvolvimento de novos compostos naturais com atividade antiviral.

Propolis is a resinous substance produced by bees for which several biological activities have been attributed. In this article, the antiviral activity of two propolis extracts was tested against bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV), canine adenovirus type 2 (CAV-2), and feline calicivirus (FCV). One of the extracts was obtained by ethanolic extraction of propolis from the Santa Maria (RS) region, while the other was bought from a Minas Gerais industry. The high efficiency liquid cromatography (HPLC) analysis detected the presence of some flavonoids like rutin, quercetin, and gallic acid. The MTT test was applied in order to detect the citotoxicity and also the antiviral activity. Both extracts showed antiviral activity against BVDV and CAV-2 when incubated with the cell cultures before viral inoculation. The extracts were less effective against FCV comparing to the results for the other viruses and, the antiviral activity was observed only when the própolis was present after virus inoculation The extract obtained in the lab showed the highest selectivity index (SI= CC50/ EC50). Thus, propolis showed antiviral activity against three different viruses, making it a target for the development of new natural compounds with antiviral activity.

Antiviral activity of the Lippia graveolens (Mexican oregano) essential oil and its main compound carvacrol against human and animal viruses.

Mexican oregano (Lippia graveolens) is a plant found in Mexico and Central America that is traditionally used as a medicinal herb. In the present study, we investigated the antiviral activity of the essential oil of Mexican oregano and its major component, carvacrol, against different human and animal viruses. The MTT test (3-4,5-dimethythiazol-2yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide) was conducted to determine the selectivity index (SI) of the essential oil, which was equal to 13.1, 7.4, 10.8, 9.7, and 7.2 for acyclovir-resistant herpes simplex virus type 1 (ACVR-HHV-1), acyclovir-sensitive HHV-1, human respiratory syncytial virus (HRSV), bovine herpesvirus type 2 (BoHV-2), and bovine viral diarrhoea virus (BVDV), respectively. The human rotavirus (RV) and BoHV-1 and 5 were not inhibited by the essential oil. Carvacrol alone exhibited high antiviral activity against RV with a SI of 33, but it was less efficient than the oil for the other viruses. Thus, Mexican oregano oil and its main component, carvacrol, are able to inhibit different human and animal viruses in vitro. Specifically, the antiviral effects of Mexican oregano oil on ACVR-HHV-1 and HRSV and of carvacrol on RV justify more detailed studies.

Microbiota cloacal aeróbia de cracídeos cativos no Rio Grande do Sul e sua susceptibilidade a antimicrobianos / Cloacal microbiota identification and evaluation of the antimicrobial resistance in captive cracids from Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil

Os cracídeos são aves silvestres que habitam as matas tropicais da América. Foram coletadas, no ano de 2007, amostras cloacais de 51 aves de dez espécies diferentes de cracídeos mantidos em cativeiros no Estado do Rio Grande do Sul. A partir dos swabs, colhidos assepticamente, foi realizado o isolamento e a caracterização bacteriana e o teste de susceptibilidade antimicrobiana dos isolados. Foram identificadas 93 cepas de bactérias. As bactérias mais frequentemente isoladas foram Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus spp. e Streptococcus spp. Todas as amostras foram negativas para o isolamento de Salmonella spp. O resultado do teste de sensibilidade mostrou que dentre as 93 cepas isoladas, todas foram sensíveis apenas ao imipinem. Adicionalmente, os menores percentuais de resistência foram observados frente ao cloranfenicol e ciprofloxacina. Os gêneros e espécies bacterianas com maior percentual de resistência a diferentes antibióticos testados foram Escherichia coli, Serratia marcescens, Staphylococcus aureus e Streptococcus spp. Com os resultados obtidos no presente trabalho, concluí-se, que a população de cracídeos estudada apresenta sua microbiota cloacal composta por vários gêneros e espécies bacterianas e que a multirresistencia pode ser um problema no futuro, uma vez que algumas cepas isoladas mostraram percentuais elevados de resistência a diferente antimicrobianos.

Cracids are wildlife Galliformes which inhabits the America's tropical forests. Fifty one cloacal swabs were collected from 10 different species of captive cracids from the Rio Grande do Sul State during 2007. The cloacal swab samples were submitted to bacterial isolation, identification and, subsequently; antimicrobial susceptibility testing. Ninety three bacterial isolates were obtained from the cracid population examined. The most prevalent among the isolates were Escherichia coli, and bacteria from the Staphylococcus and Streptococcus genera. All samples tested in this study were negative for Salmonella spp. The antimicrobial susceptibility tests showed that none of the 93 strains presented resistance to the antimicrobial imipinem. In addition, the lower percentages of resistance were observed against cloranfenicol and ciprofloxacine. The bacteria genus and species with the highest percentage of resistance to the different antimicrobials examined were E. coli, Serratia marcescens, Staphylococcus spp. and Streptococcus spp. In conclusion, the data presented in this article demonstrate that the cloacal microbiota of the reported cracid population is composed of several bacterial genera and species and multi-drug resistance may be a problem for the future, since some strains showed elevated percentage of resistance against several different antimicrobials.

Anticorpos contra vírus de galinha em cracídeos / Detection of antibodies against commercial poultry viruses in cracids

Os cracídeos são Galliformes silvestres das Américas. Com o objetivo de investigar a presença de anticorpos contra vírus de galinhas em cracídeos, foram coletadas 51 amostras de soro de 10 diferentes espécies dessas aves. Esses animais eram mantidos em criatórios conservacionistas e zoológicos nos Municípios de Santa Maria, Soledade, Passo Fundo, Sapucaia, Gravataí, Viamão e Três Coroas, Estado do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. Anticorpos neutralizantes foram detectados em 5,9 por cento (3/51) do total de amostras testadas contra o vírus da bronquite infecciosa das galinhas, 15,7 por cento (8/51) contra o reovírus aviário e 35,3 por cento (18/51) contra o vírus da doença infecciosa da bolsa. Todas as amostras foram negativas para o vírus da bouba aviária no teste de IDGA. A detecção de anticorpos para vírus de aves comerciais sugere que os cracídeos podem ser susceptíveis à infecção por esses vírus.

The cracids are wild Galliformes native from the Americas. Fifty one serum samples were collected from individuals of 10 different species of cracids in order to obtain information regarding to the antibody status of different viruses. These birds were kept in shelters and zoos localized in Santa Maria, Soledade, Passo Fundo, Sapucaia, Gravataí, Viamão and Três Coroas counties, in the Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil. Neutralizing antibodies were detected in the individuals serum from different species specific referring to infectious bronchitis virus in 5.9 percent (3/51) of the samples, to avian reovirus in 15.7 percent (8/51) and, to infectious bursal disease virus in 35.3 percent (18/51). All samples were negative for fowlpox virus, as measured by IDGA test. The detection of commercial poultry viruses antibodies suggests that cracids could be susceptible to infection by those viruses.

In vitro activity of terbinafine associated to amphotericin B, fluvastatin, rifampicin, metronidazole and ibuprofen against Pythium insidiosum.

We evaluated the in vitro activities of terbinafine alone and in combination with amphotericin B, fluvastatin, rifampicin, metronidazole or ibuprofen against 17 clinical isolates of Pythium insidiosum. The assays were based on technique M38-A2, as well as the checkerboard microdilution method. The main synergism observed was by combination of terbinafine plus amphotericin B (41.18%). Antagonisms were observed in combinations of terbinafine with fluvastatin (35.30%) or rifampicin (5.88%).

Anticorpos contra vírus em galinhas de terreiro do Estado do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil / Antibodies against avian viruses in backyard poultry from the Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil

No Brasil, a população de aves conhecida como galinhas de terreiro encontra-se fora do sistema de biosseguridade aplicada às criações comerciais. Para investigar a presença de anticorpos contra alguns vírus específicos nesta população, foram coletadas amostras de sangue de 867 aves não-vacinadas em 60 propriedades de 22 municípios do Estado do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. O soro foi testado para a presença de anticorpos contra o vírus da bronquite infecciosa das galinhas (IBV), reovírus aviário (ARV) e o vírus da doença infecciosa da bolsa (IBDV) pela técnica de soroneutralização. Anticorpos contra IBV foram detectados em 65 por cento (564/867) das amostras, contra ARV em 21,6 por cento (187/867) e contra IBDV em 80,2 por cento (695/867) das aves. Todas as propriedades avaliadas apresentavam uma ave positiva para anticorpos contra IBV e IBDV e 88,3 por cento delas eram positivas para ARV. Os resultados demonstram que esses vírus estão presentes em galinhas de terreiro nas criações avícolas não-industriais da região central do Estado. Os resultados indicam a necessidade de um programa de vigilância permanente nessa população e ainda indicam a necessidade de avaliar o impacto destas infecções nos próprios plantéis e o risco associado à transmissão destas às criações comerciais.

The backyard poultry are not included in the biosecurity system applied in commercial flocks in Brazil. To investigate the presence of antibodies to specific viral pathogens in this population, blood samples were collected from 867 non-vaccinated birds, from 60 flocks in 22 counties of the Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil. The samples were tested to detect antibodies against infectious bronchitis virus (IBV), avian reovirus (ARV) and infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV), through the virus neutralization test. Antibodies to IBV were detected in 65 percent (564/867), against ARV in 21.6 percent (187/867), and against IBDV in 80.2 percent (695/867) of the samples. All the flocks had chickens positive to IBV and IBDV antibodies, and 88.3 percent of them harbored antibodies to ARV. The results show the presence of these viruses in backyard poultry from the central region of the State. It also indicates the need for additional studies aimed to evaluate the real importance of these infections for this type of flocks.

Viroses respiratórias emergentes: os vírus e seu diagnóstico / Viroses respiratory emergent: the viruses and its diagnosis

A emergência e re-emergência de vírus patogênicos são assuntos atuais e de grande interesse para profissionais da área da saúde. As alterações do meio ambiente causada pelo progresso humano, tem possibilitado a introdução de novos agentes virais e o reaparecimento de novas amostras de vírus já conhecido entre os humanos. Por outro lado, o avanço tecnológico tem contribuído para o desenvolvimento de técnicas de diagnóstico e tratamento cada vez mais rápidas, precisas e eficientes. O vírus da Influenza,agente etiológico da gripe, é um velho conhecido que periodicamente adquire nova roupagem e traz consigo o risco de uma pandemia. O metapneumovírus humano (hMPV) é um vírus recentemente identificado que parece ter papel importante na produção de doenças respiratórias em crianças. Esta revisão aborda aspectos gerais e importantes destes vírus, que podem ser considerados exemplos de agentes re-emergentes e emergentes para a população humana. Serão apresentadas características do agente etiológico, epidemiologia e formas de diagnóstico

Comparison of inflammatory infiltrates in trigeminal ganglia of cattle infected with wild-type Bovine herpesvirus 1 versus a virus strain containing a mutation in the LR (latency-related) gene.

During latency, the bovine herpesvirus 1 (BHV-1) latency-related (LR) RNA is abundantly expressed in neurons within trigeminal ganglia (TG). A LR mutant virus that does not express two LR proteins is unable to reactivate from latency following dexamethasone treatment. Increased infiltration of inflammatory cells occurs in TG of calves acutely infected with the LR mutant virus. Throughout acute infection, wild-type BHV-1 DNA is detected in neurons surrounded by mononuclear infiltrates and in non-neuronal cells comprising the infiltrate. Conversely, LR mutant DNA is only detected in neurons near the end of acute infection, suggesting LR gene products promote virus spread in TG.