Goat and sheep farming is a fundamental activity for the subsistence and economy of small-scale farmers. Despite its potential, production suffers economic losses caused by parasitic diseases, especially those transmitted by ticks. These vectors play a significant role in the transmission of certain bacterial pathogens such as Borrelia, Anaplasma, and Ehrlichia. This study investigated the occurrence of these microorganisms in ticks and small ruminants in the state of Maranhão, Brazil. Ticks and blood samples were collected from 238 goats and sheep in the Cerrado and Amazon biomes. The animals were visually inspected for tick collection, and an additional sample was taken from a buffalo. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and Western blot techniques, specifically for Borrelia, were used to detect hemoparasites. The tick species Rhipicephalus microplus, Dermacentor nitens, and Amblyomma cajennense sensu stricto were identified. All ticks collected from goats and sheep tested negative by PCR, except for one R. microplus collected from a buffalo, which was positive for all target Borrelia genes (flaB, rrs, glpQ, and hpt). Regarding small ruminants, PCR targeting the flaB gene detected 18 positive animals. In serological testing, 43% (36/84) showed anti-Borrelia antibodies, including seven goats from the Cerrado and 29 sheep from both biomes and the transition zone. This study reports, for the first time, the presence of anti-Borrelia antibodies in goats and sheep raised in transition areas between two major biomes: the Amazon and the Cerrado. Concerning the Anaplasmataceae family, PCR revealed 16 positive samples—two goats and 14 sheep. From these results, Anaplasma spp. was identified through sequencing, while no samples amplified specific Ehrlichia gene fragments. Additionally, this study identified for the first time the tick species D. nitens and A. cajennense s.s. parasitizing small ruminants in Maranhão. These findings highlight the circulation of pathogenic agents relevant to animal health and reinforce the importance of health monitoring and tick control to preserve herd health and reduce economic losses.

 Keywords: Ixodida; Hemoparasites; Animal health.

Dogs are frequently taken to the bath and grooming service, and the constant complaints of eye injuries, especially in brachycephalic dogs, lead to important questions about the possible causes and racial influences on the development of these injuries. Therefore, the general objective of this research was to evaluate the occurrence of eye injuries in brachycephalic dogs pre-existing to bath and grooming. Conducting an exploratory research, with clinical ocular analysis of 130 eyes of 65 brachycephalic dogs, and 60 eyes of 30 non-brachycephalic dogs in pet shops in the city of São Luís - MA. For this, a clinical record was used with information about the clinical ophthalmological aspects of the analyzed dogs containing the registration data, as well as information about the tests applied: Schirmer's Lacrimal Test (TLS) and Fluorescein Test, performed before (T0) and after (T1) the bath and grooming. As a result, it was found that 100% of the animals (65/65) evaluated presented some ocular alteration involving the ocular surface and ophthalmic annexes. The mean age in months was 4,34 ^A ± 2,7for brachycephalic dogs and 4,5 ^A ± 3,1 for non-brachycephalic dogs. Brachycephalic Shih-tzu dogs represented the highest incidence of cases in this study (58/65 animals). While of the non-brachycephalic dogs, the SRD breed had the highest frequency (13/30). They observed the presence of corneal ulcers in only 7 animals (6 Shih-tzus and 1 poodle) and all occurrences were prior to bathing, totaling 9 corneal ulcers. In addition to these, other eyelid and ciliary alterations were present, with the highest incidence being melanosis (51/65), Caruncle Trichiasis (22/65), Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (12), corneal neovascularization (11/65), distichiasis (6), entropion4 and ectopic eyelash. Regarding the clinical signs of the ocular surface, pigmentary keratitis, melanosis, neovascularization. TLS, added to the remaining clinical signs, allowed the diagnosis of CCS in a total of 12/65 brachycephalic and 2/30 non-brachycephalic animals. Therefore, it was evident that the ocular lesions and conditions already existed and were not previously noticed by their guardians. This study showed a significant number of animals that presented ocular lesions before bathing and grooming, with changes in tear production and corneal ulcers standing out, highlighting the importance of evaluating brachycephalic animals before bathing and grooming in pet shops.

Keywords: veterinary ophthalmology; ocular diseases; brachycephalic and non-brachycephalic animals.

Corneal ulcers are among the most common ophthalmological conditions in dogs and can lead to serious complications if not treated appropriately. Therapeutic success depends on the appropriate choice of antimicrobial, which requires knowledge of the ocular microbiota and bacterial resistance patterns. This study aimed to characterize the ocular microbiota of dogs with corneal ulcers treated at the University Veterinary Hospital of UEMA, identifying the isolated microorganisms and their antimicrobial susceptibility profiles. Seventy-four samples from dogs with complicated and uncomplicated ulcers were analyzed and submitted to microbiological culture and antimicrobial susceptibility testing. The results indicated that Staphylococcus spp. was the most frequently isolated microorganism (43% in uncomplicated ulcers and 31% in complicated ulcers), followed by Enterococcus spp. (15% and 14.1%, respectively) and Proteus mirabilis (4.9% and 5.9%, respectively). Fungi were detected in six samples, of which five were positive for Aspergillus spp. (three in complicated ulcers and two in uncomplicated ulcers). Candida spp. was identified in only one sample from a complicated ulcer. Ciprofloxacin and Amoxicillin + Clavulanate showed the highest antimicrobial sensitivity rates (56%), followed by Tobramycin (51%). However, Pseudomonas spp. demonstrated complete resistance (100%) to Amoxicillin + Clavulanate in uncomplicated ulcers and 83% in complicated ulcers. Furthermore, Proteus mirabilis and Staphylococcus spp. showed significant resistance to Doxycycline (p < 0.05). Statistical analysis did not show a significant influence of sex on the occurrence of complicated or uncomplicated ulcers (p = 0.49 and p = 0.64, respectively). Superficial ulcers were the most frequent (47%), followed by deep (28%) and perforated (25%), with a statistically significant difference between types (p = 0.001). The findings reinforce the importance of performing microbiological tests to guide therapeutic choice and minimize the risk of antimicrobial resistance. It is concluded that the implementation of protocols based on local epidemiological data can optimize the treatment of corneal ulcers, ensuring greater clinical efficacy and reducing the impact of bacterial resistance in veterinary medicine.

Keywords: Veterinary ophthalmology; antimicrobial resistance; ocular microbiota; corneal ulcer; dogs.

In this study we sought to characterize the physicochemical properties of the oil extracted from the viscera of Kinosternon scorpioides, a turtle from the wild fauna of Maranhão that is of cultural and economic importance to riverside dwellers. The thesis is divided into two chapters. Chapter I presents the theoretical framework on the potential of the oil extracted from Kinosternon scorpioides (jurará), addressing aquaculture and cheloniculture in Brazil and worldwide, its economic and environmental importance, as well as the biological characteristics, geographical distribution, and challenges of captive breeding. It also discusses the reuse of fishery residues, highlighting the added value of the oil for industrial and therapeutic applications. Chapter II describes the physicochemical composition of the crude residual oil from Kinosternon scorpioides (jurará) (jurará) from farmed and wild-caught animals. The oil was extracted in an oven at 90ºC for 16 hours. The physicochemical analysis results for farmed and wild-caught specimens were: acidity index of 1,20±0,12 mg KOH/g and 3,17±0,26 mg KOH/g, complying with the standards set by the National Health Surveillance Agency, which recommends values below 3%, and the Codex Alimentarius, which defines the limit at 3 mg KOH/g. Additionally, density values of 0,92±0,05 and 0,83±0,03, specific mass of 0,628±0,02 g/m³ and 0,569±0,01 g/m³, and visceral lipid content of 1,94±0,41 and 1,05±0,41, respectively, were obtained. The results reveal a diverse lipid profile, including saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated fatty acids essential for human health, such as omega-3 and omega-6. Moreover, minor compounds such as esters (polidecyl octanoate and glycerol tricaprylate) and alkanes (nonadecane, hexyl eicosane, hexatriacontane, and methyl eicosane) were identified. The oil of Kinosternon scorpioides (jurará) stands out for its excellent thermal stability and heat resistance, making it a promising option for industrial applications requiring materials resistant to high temperatures. The study reinforces the importance of cheloniculture as a sustainable alternative capable of reconciling economic development with environmental preservation while promoting innovation in the use of natural resources.

Keywords: Wildlife; Traditional Medicine; Cheloniculture; Turtle.

Bivalve molluscs belong to a class of invertebrates and are distributed globally and are traded worldwide. The consumption of bivalve molluscs is significant, therefore, monitoring of the health and risk of consumption of these organisms must be carried out. Therefore, the objective was to monitor protozoa in bivalve molluscs from natural banks and cultures on Maranhão Island, through molecular assays and histopathological analyses. For this, oysters (Crassostrea sp.), sururus (Mytella sp.) and sarnambis (Anomalocardia sp.) were collected from natural banks in the municipalities of São Luís, Paço do Lumiar, Raposa and São José de Ribamar, which are part of Maranhão Island, during the period from January to December 2022 (rainy and dry season). For molecular analyses, samples were organized into pools of gills from three animals, totaling 30 pools of each animal species, in each period (90 dry and 90 rainy), totaling 180 pools. DNA was extracted and subjected to research for protozoa of public health importance, Toxoplasma gondii (SAG-1 gene), Cryptosporidium spp. (18S rRNA) and Giardia spp. (gdh gene), and genetic characterization, conducted in the MEGA11 and Network programs. For histopathology, 30 samples of each animal species were sectioned into cross sections and fixed in Davidson's solution for 24 hours and processed for the preparation of histological slides. Therefore, 180 pools of the three species evaluated were tested for detection of T. gondii DNA, of which three sururus pools (3/180; 1.67%), from the municipalities of Raposa and São José de Ribamar, all from the rainy season, were positive. These samples were successfully sequenced and confirmed 98 to 100% genetic similarity with T. gondii isolates. Phylogenetic inferences from these sequences demonstrated a relationship with classical T. gondii genotypes II and III, and in the haplotypic analysis, one sample from Raposa represented a haplotype exclusive to this locality (H_1). The other two belonged to a haplogroup containing isolates from the United States of America, Italy, Iran, France and India (H_2). There was no amplification of Cryptosporidium spp. DNA, however, 8.89% (16/180) analyzed pools were positive for Giardia spp., Sequence analysis showed 98.36–99.45% identity with Giardia intestinalis assembly B confirmed by phylogenetic analysis. In the histopathological analysis, the presence of the protozoan Nematopsis sp. (57.78%) was observed in the three bivalve species, being more frequent in Mytella sp. Larval parasitic forms, cestodes and sporocysts of trematodes were observed in two animals of the genus Anomalocardia sp., from the municipality of Raposa. Among the pathological alterations, diffuse or focal hemocytic infiltration was observed, associated or not with parasitism. Granulocytoma was observed in an animal Mytella sp., infected by Nematopsis sp., other alterations included the accumulation of brown cells and atrophy of the digestive gland. Therefore, the presence of pathogens and pathologies in bivalves was evidenced, and the zoonotic protozoan T. gondii and G. intestinalis assemblage B. Continuous health monitoring of bivalve molluscs contributes to the identification of potential risks to public health and the adoption of measures to ensure the safety of consumers and the health of these animals.

Keywords: Lamelibranchs; protozoa; PCR; histological alterations

Enteric viruses represent a major concern in food safety due to their ability to cause widespread infections through contaminated food and water, particularly bivalve mollusks. From August 2023 to July 2024, a total of 89 samples were acquired monthly, consisting of 64 mussels (Mytella falcata) and 25 oysters (Crassostrea rhizophorae), from shellfish farming communities that commercially distribute these bivalves in the metropolitan region of São Luís Island, Maranhão. Viral processing and detection were carried out by quantifying viral loads using real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), following the ISO/TS 15216-1:2017 standard. The internal process control used, mengovirus (MgV vMC0), was detected in 100% of the samples, with recovery rates of 49.08% ± 39.00 (mean ± SD). Norovirus GII was detected in 17.9% (16/89) of the samples, followed by human mastadenoviruses (14.6%, 13/89), rotavirus A (17.9%, 3/89), norovirus GI (6.7%, 6/89), and hepatitis A virus (3.4%, 3/89). Overall, 34.9% (31/89) of the samples tested positive for one or more viruses, with the following distribution: 64.5% (20/31) contained a single viral agent, 19.3% (6/31) had two viral agents, 3.2% (1/31) had three viral agents, 3.2% (1/31) had four viral agents, and 9.7% (3/31) contained five viral agents. Rotavirus A exhibited the highest viral load (1.87 × 10⁶ GC/g), followed by norovirus GII (9.41 × 10⁴ GC/g), norovirus GI (1.65 × 10⁴ GC/g), human mastadenovirus (4.68 × 10³ GC/g), and hepatitis A virus (5.62 × 10² GC/g). This study presents the first report on the circulation and dissemination of enteric viruses in bivalves from natural banks in a mangrove region of São Luís Island, Maranhão. The findings emphasize the importance of viral monitoring to aid in the prevention of outbreaks among consumers of these seafood products and to promote improvements in the quality of the estuarine environment in this region. 

Pythiosis is a granulomatous disease caused by the oomycete Pythium insidiosum, transmitted by direct contact with zoospores in aquatic and marshy environments, mainly affecting horses and humans. Given the presence of favorable climatic and geographic conditions for the dissemination of this etiological agent in the Baixada Maranhense in the state of Maranhão, this study investigated the frequency of pythiosis through clinical, microbiological, histopathological and molecular analyses. Twenty-three horses with lesions suggestive of pythiosis were evaluated, from seven municipalities of Baixada Maranhense and two adjacent ones. Fragments of ulcerative tissue and/or kunkers were collected for microbiological culture and histopathological analysis. The samples were cultured in yeast agar medium, incubated at 37°C and the colonies analyzed macro and microscopically. Histopathological examination used staining techniques such as hematoxylin and eosin (HE), Grocott (GMS) and periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) to confirm the presence of hyphae and characterize the lesions. In the molecular analysis, the isolates were subjected to DNA extraction and PCR using primers specific for the ITS gene of P. insidiosum. Clinically, the lesions were located predominantly in the thoracic and pelvic limbs and abdominal region, characterized by irregular borders, exacerbated inflammation and serosanguinous secretion. The results revealed that five samples were positive in microbiological culture, with typical colonies presenting branched growth and coenocytic, hyaline hyphae devoid of fruiting bodies. In the histopathological examination, stained sections confirmed granulomatous lesions associated with the presence of hyphae in five horses. In the PCR, four isolates were positive for P. insidiosum, presenting an amplified product of approximately 580 bp. It is concluded that equine pythiosis occurs in Maranhão, especially in Baixada Maranhense, with well-defined clinical, histopathological and molecular characteristics and the results reinforce the need for surveillance and control of this emerging disease in horses.

Keywords: Microbiological culture, Horses, Pythium insidiosum

Fish farming is increasingly important globally and nationally, playing a crucial role in the production of fish for human consumption. Monitoring microbiological and chemical contaminants in water discharge is essential to mitigate the risk of contamination of water and fish for human consumption. This study was conducted with the aim of evaluating water quality as a health parameter for tambacu (Colossoma macropomum × Piaractus mesopotamicus) from western Maranhão. Tambacu specimens were captured in excavated tanks in the municipality of Governador Edison Lobão, western region of the state of Maranhão (MA), and microbiological analyses of the water, feed and fillet were performed, as well as parasitological analyses of the gills and intestines. This study evaluates water quality as a health parameter for tambacu, analyzing the physicochemical and E. coli parameters of the water and muscles of the tambacu fish (Colossoma macropomum × Piaractus mesopotamicus), a monogenoidea occurring in western Maranhão, Brazil. It also includes a qualitative characterization of the zooplankton in the tanks. Samples were collected from tambacu tanks in a dam system fed by natural watercourses of the tributaries of the Tocantins River, located at the junction of the Brazilian savanna and Amazon biomes. The hosts were examined at the Ecology and Limnology Laboratory of the State University of the Tocantina Region of Maranhão. Microbiological analyses were performed on the water, feed and fillet, as well as parasitological analyses of the gills and intestines. The Monogenoidea present were collected from the gills and fixed in 5% formalin, mounted in Hoyer's medium between a slide and a coverslip. The classification of monogenoides was based on the sclerotized parts of the haptor and the copulatory complex. A total of 1,217 specimens of Monogenoidea were found and identified as Anacanthorus spathulatus. The diversity of Monogenoidea is evidenced and it is demonstrated that large infestations by Monogenoidea can cause economic losses, leading to the death of the hosts, due to the pathogenic action of these helminths. In addition to parasites in the gills and intestines, microbiological contamination was found in the water of the reservoirs, in the feed, in the fillet and in the gills above the standard established by law. The physicochemical and E. coli parameters of the water do not meet national standards. The zooplankton community included representatives of Rotifera, Cladocera, Copepoda and Protozoa, with no previous studies on zooplankton in the region, making these discoveries unprecedented. Thus, the results on the occurrence of parasites indicate the need to monitor the presence of parasites in fish farms in western Maranhão. It is concluded, therefore, that the quality of the water in the culture tanks influences the microbiological quality of the fish. Therefore, the fish produced in the western region of Maranhão undergo inspection and monitoring so that they can be considered safe food for the population. The quality of the water studied is related to the potential influence of untreated wastewater as a source of contamination, leaving the region still far from safe water reuse practices. The findings on chemical and E. coli contamination of fish farm waters are a concern for human health and emphasize the need for comprehensive regulations.

Keywords: Fish farming, water quality; waterborne pathogens; food safety; human health.

Leptospirosis is an infectious disease of global relevance to public health, caused by spirochete bacteria of the genus Leptospira spp. In horses, most cases are subclinical, however, reproductive disorders can occur in mares, such as early embryonic death, abortions and stillbirths. In the Baixada Maranhense microregion there is a genetic group called baixadeiro horse, which is highly adapted to the environmental characteristics of the region. This aimed determine the frequency of Leptospira spp. in baixadeiros horses in the Baixada Maranhense microregion, state of Maranhão. Blood samples were collected from 198 horses. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and microscopic agglutination test (MAT) were performed. Results: No animal was positive for PCR, while 76.7% (117) were reactive for Leptospira spp. The most predominant serovars were Australis (29.26%), Sejroe (23.17%), Autumnalis (7.31%) and Grippotyphosa (7.31%). Regarding the associated risk factors to Leptospira spp. infection, all sampled animals freely inhabited the fields, with access to wetlands, cohabiting with other domestic and wild animal species. There was no association between age, sex and seropositivity (p>0.05); there was no significant difference between the mean hematocrits of positive and negative horses (P>0.05). It is concluded that the frequency of horses from Baixada that presented antibodies against Leptospira spp. was high.

Keywords: equine, leptospirosis, Maranhão, serovars

The objective of this study was to describe the main morphological characteristics of the extracellular matrix of the genital system of healthy cows infected with BoHV-1. The samples were obtained from a slaughterhouse and classified according to the physiological phase and fragments of ovary and uterus were collected. The histological processing included the steps of fixation in 10% formaldehyde, dehydration in alcohols, clarification in xylol, impregnation and inclusion in paraffin, microtomy and assembly of the histological slides; were stained with Hematoxylin-Eosin and Picrosirius Red, and the slides were read by light microscopy and polarized light microscopy. The main changes were observed in the progestionic phase. In the ovaries, the collagen fibers were composed of type I collagen, especially in the cortical region, they were quite thickened, interspersed with type III collagen fibers, green in color. In the endometrium, collagen fibers were predominantly type I collagen, mainly in the endometrial glands. The endometrium undergoes the same remodeling as the progesteronic phase during pregnancy. The extracellular matrix of the organs of the genital system of cows undergoes changes due to hormonal changes throughout the estrous cycle, especially during the progesteronic phase, with a predominance of type I collagen fibers, especially in the cortical region of the ovary and in the endometrium, which results in the thickening and replacement of type III collagen by type I collagen.   

Keywords: MEC, collagen, cattle, BoHV-1, Maranhão

Pygocentrus nattereri, commonly known as the red piranha, is a species of freshwater fish in the Serrasalmidae family, native to river basins in South America, such as the Amazon, Orinoco, Paraguay and Paraná. It is characterized by its red belly and carnivorous diet, and is essential for controlling the population of other aquatic species. Like other fish, P. nattereri is host to a variety of metazoan parasites, which present a wide variety of morphological and physiological adaptations to survive in the intrahost environment. The aim of this study was to characterize the metazoan parasites present in P. nattereri “red piranha” collected in lakes in the Baixada Maranhense region of Brazil. The study analyzed parasites present in 52 specimens of red piranha, captured in the Baixada Maranhense region, with the aim of characterizing their metazoan parasites. The parasite prevalence indices (%), infection intensity (I), mean infection intensity (Im) and mean infection abundance (Am) were used to calculate the infection degree of the recorded parasites. The results of the study allowed the identification of 834 L3 larvae of Contracaecum sp. (Nematoda) and only one species of ectoparasite of Argulus sp. Eleven species of Monogenoidea were recorded parasitizing the gills of P. nattereri, of which Anacanthorus mesocondylus and A. sciphonophallus are cited for the first time parasitizing the gills of P. nattereri, and a new species described A. alanalisleae n. sp. Continuous research in parasite ecology is vital for the development of control strategies for diseases caused by common endoparasites and ectoparasites in P. nattereri.

Keywords: Parasite; Fish; Pygocentrus nattereri; Baixada Maranhense.

Chagas disease is a neglected tropical disease caused by the protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi, widely distributed throughout the Americas, with significant social, economic, and health impacts. Dogs play a relevant epidemiological role as sentinels for T. cruzi circulation, acting as a link at the interface between sylvatic, peridomestic, and domestic environments. Despite progress in vector control in several parts of Brazil, Chagas disease transmission remains a reality, especially in rural areas and regions of greater social vulnerability, where sylvatic and peridomestic cycles overlap. In this context, studying T. cruzi infection in sentinel animals, such as dogs, and in triatomine vectors is essential for understanding different risk scenarios. The state of Maranhão, although not presenting the classical pattern of endemic transmission, requires studies due to periodic outbreaks, such as the one that occurred in 2018 in the municipality of Pedro do Rosário, previously considered outside the endemic zone. Nevertheless, specific studies on the occurrence and epidemiology of T. cruzi in dogs and triatomines in this region are still scarce, representing an important scientific and public health gap. This study aimed to detect the presence of the parasite in domestic dogs and triatomines and to investigate factors associated with its transmission. Between 2021 and 2024, blood samples were collected from 344 dogs, in which two techniques were employed to investigate T. cruzi infection: ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay) using chimeric recombinant antigens (IBMP-8.1, 8.2, 8.3, and 8.4) and Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) for molecular identification. Additionally, epidemiological questionnaires were applied to identify associated risk factors. Regarding triatomines, active searches were carried out in domestic and peridomestic environments, in addition to specimens sent by residents. Species identification was performed using specific taxonomic keys, followed by PCR analysis for the detection and identification of T. cruzi. The evaluation of the findings indicated a serological positivity prevalence of 3.44% (10/344) in dogs, with 60% of the seropositive animals reacting to all four antigens used in ELISA. However, no samples tested positive for T. cruzi by molecular analysis. In the risk factor analysis, only the variable "peridomestic area" showed a statistically significant association with serological positivity for T. cruzi (p = 0.0497), suggesting its role as a risk factor for infection in the dogs studied. As for the triatomines, all specimens were identified as belonging to the genus Rhodnius, and molecular analysis detected T. cruzi DNA in 12% of the insects evaluated. This study confirms the presence of T. cruzi in the municipality of Pedro do Rosário, Maranhão, both in domestic dogs and in triatomines of the genus Rhodnius. The detection of seropositivity in dogs, although at a low frequency, indicates that these animals were exposed to the parasite and confirms their role as sentinels in the epidemiological surveillance of Chagas disease. In triatomines, the molecular positivity for T. cruzi indicates that infected vectors are present in the environment, highlighting a constant risk of transmission.

Keywords: Chagas disease; Sentinel dogs; Triatomines; Surveillance

In the Baixada Maranhense, fish is an essential part of the population's diet, and local communities live off artisanal fishing to generate income and support their families. Among the most commercialized and consumed fish in this region is the species Serrasalmus rhombeus (Linnaeus, 1766), popularly known as the “black piranha”, which belongs to the Serrasalmidae family and the Characiformes order, and is widely distributed in South America. Fish are among the vertebrates most susceptible to parasitism due to factors intrinsic to the aquatic environment, such as changes in the level of carbon dioxide, ammonia and nitrite in excess, low concentration of dissolved oxygen, as well as unregulated levels of organic matter and other components that can cause stress in animals, making them immunosuppressed and causing the manifestation of diseases. With regard to health and sanitary inspection, the study of the parasitic fauna of fish is fundamental, because through their spoliative, toxic or mechanical action, parasites trigger pathological conditions, hindering the growth of the host and even leading to death, which affects the economic sector. This study is characterized as descriptive and exploratory, of a quantitative nature, with the aim of investigating the parasitofauna of Serrasalmus rhombeus in the Baixada Maranhense region. The sample consisted of 151 specimens of S. rhombeus, collected directly from the Pericumã River (Pinheiro-MA), by local fishermen, using gillnets and a motorized canoe. In this study, Contracaecum sp was the only endoparasite found in S. rhombeus in the wet and dry seasons, with temporal differences in prevalence and abundance. The average intensity was 6.2 in the rainy season; 7.91 in the 1st collection of the dry season, and 11.64 in the 2nd collection. The average abundance was 3.72 in the rainy season, and 5.2 and 2.38 in the dry season. With regard to parasitism by ectoparasites, monogeneans of the genera Anacanthorus sp, Amphitecium sp and Notozothecium sp, were identified the former being the most prevalent.

 Keywords: Serrasalmus rhombeus; Parasitofauna; Pericumã River

Sporotrichosis is a zoonotic cutaneous mycosis caused by saprophytic fungi, genus Sporothrix spp., which affects cats, armadillos, horses, dogs and humans. This endemic disease is spreading countrywise. The aim of the current study is to identify the clinical, phenotypical and molecular featuring of the sporotrichosis in cats living in São Luís Island, Maranhão State. Clinical assessment and cytological examination were carried out, from October 2022 to July 2023, in cats with suspected sporotrichosis reffered to Francisco Edilberto Uchôa Lopes Veterinary Hospital, State University of Maranhão. Surface secretion of lesions was collected for fungal culture and species identification purposes in animals with suspected fungal infection. Positive samples were submitted jected to species-specific PCR, genetic sequencing and, subsequently, to phylogenetic analysis. In total, 46 animals were selected: 33 males and 13 females. The results show that disseminated cutaneous clinical sporotrichosis was observed in 70% of assessed cats. The  lesions were more frequent in the face, ears, back of the thoracic region and limbs of the sampled animals. The gross analysis was observed that the cultures presented white color, which gradually turned blackish and showed coriaceous texture compatible to Sporothrix spp. Micromorphological analysis has evidenced hyaline hyphae with round conidia and daisy-like conidiophores. PCR conducted with S. brasiliensis species-specific primers has shown that 46 samples successfully amplified the CAL gene. Based on phylogenetic analysis applied to 5 isolates, rates of genetic identity with sequences of S. brasiliensis (cal gene) specimens previously deposited in the GenBank of isolates deriving from different hosts and locations, such as felines, dogs and humans, ranged from 90% to 100%. Results confirmed that S. brasiliensis accounts for causing disease in felines living in São Luís Island – MA.

Key-words: mycoses, Sporothrix spp, zoonosis

The emergence of stress-related illnesses is the result of the intensification of the production system and has become increasingly common. The most common strategy in aquaculture for prophylactic or therapeutic treatment is the use of antibiotics. To reduce the already reported impacts of this therapy, alternative measures are of interest to the scientific community, with the use of probiotics considered a promising solution. Despite its importance in fish farming, its application in native species is relatively scarce, therefore, this work aimed to select and produce a species-specific probiotic from autochthonous strains of round fish. The strains were isolated from the intestinal tract of healthy tambaqui, Colossoma macropomum, and were evaluated in vitro and subsequently in vivo to determine their ability to improve immunity, physiological status and zootechnical parameters. 28 bacterial strains were isolated, of which only 4 were selected in the initial screening based on the characteristics of lactic acid bacteria. Strains CP20 and CP03 were those that best responded to tolerance tests to bile salts, pH and the presence of NaCl respectively. The lactic acid strain presented in the present study did not promote changes in the physical-chemical aspects of water quality within the study environment, as well as in the hematological parameters of the Tambaqui. Weight gain and daily weight gain observed during the study were greater in treatments with the lactic acid strain. These results are even more relevant due to the fact that total consumption per period and daily food consumption were lower in the treatment with probiotic supplementation, indicating a higher food conversion rate. Furthermore, the production of crude protein was greater in the treatment with the lactic acid strain, a result that increases the potential for the use of the probiotic.

Keywords: Fish farming; Animal nutrition; Lactic acid bacteria.

Aquatic environments have suffered important negative impacts over the years that have affected the way of life of the beings that live in these ecosystems. Monitoring these environments, therefore, is an important and necessary process in the management of natural resources, since it is possible to observe over a certain period the changes and threats that species have been suffering. These changes influence, for example, the way of life of fish and the relationship with their parasites. Parasitic fauna is of great importance, since the main groups are concentrated in neotropical freshwater fish. Monogenoidea (Platyhelminthes), in turn, has a wide diversity of species that mainly infect the gills of their hosts. The objective of this work was to morphologically characterize the diversity of Monogenoidea found parasitizing the gills of Psectogaster amazonica (Characiformes), in addition to analyzing the histopathological changes in the gills and verifying whether the changes and parasitism presented differences considering the dry and rainy periods of the year. The fish were collected in the middle stretch of the Tocantins River, identified and examined in the Parasitology laboratory of the State University of the Tocantina Region of Maranhão (UEMASUL). For morphological studies of Monogenoidea, the gills were placed in flasks with water heated to 65ºC, shaken vigorously, then absolute ethanol was added until reaching an approximate concentration of 70%. The fixed gills were sent to the LAMP-UEMA Immunohistochemistry Laboratory, where the helminths were collected and processed according to a specific methodology for the group. Histopathological analyzes were carried out from the second branchial arch previously fixed in Davidson's solution and processed according to histological routine and the branchial morphological evaluation was carried out in accordance with appropriate literature. A total of 1,787 monogenoid parasites were collected, belonging to six species: Curvianchoratus dominguesi Bezerra, Cohen, Meneses & Justo, 2023, Curvianchoratus psectrogasteri Bezerra, Cohen, Meneses & Justo, 2023, Curvianchoratus singularis (Suriano, 1980) Suriano, 1986, Urocleidoides psectrogasteri Bezerra, Freitas, Cohen & Justo, Urocleidoides tocantinensis Freitas, Bezerra, Meneses, Justo, Viana & Cohen, 2021 and Urocleidoides paratriangulus Freitas, Bezerra, Meneses, Justo, Viana & Cohen, 2021. Analysis of the histopathological changes showed lesions of the type: hyperplasia, detachment of the filamentary epithelium, congestion, shortening of the secondary lamellae and necrosis. Furthermore, the results revealed an inverse relationship between gill lesions and parasitic indices, demonstrating that parasites are not the only factors that influence the presence of histopathological changes in the fish examined. Considering the importance of the ichthyological fauna of the Tocantins River, with many endemic species, this study will contribute to increasing and expanding knowledge about the diversity of these helminths in fish in the region, in addition to providing a greater understanding of gill changes, an essential organ for the health of the fish, and consequently the implications for the quality of the waters of the Tocantins River.

Keywords: Histopathology, Ichthyoparasitology, Monogenoidea, Psectrogaster amazonica

The use of medicinal plants in the treatment of bone conditions dates back to ancient civilizations. This practice, still prevalent in various cultures today, reflects a traditional knowledge that, although recognized by the population, lacks a more solid scientific foundation. This study investigates the efficacy of the oily extract of Dysphania ambrosioides (Mastruz) in promoting bone healing in rabbits, after the creation of a bone defect. The extract was previously subjected to chemical analyses to identify and quantify its active components, as well as toxicity tests to ensure greater reliability in the therapeutic product. The samples were divided into groups according to age range (young and adult), with the experimental group receiving 1ml of the 10% oily extract and the control group 1ml of sugar water. Assessments of the bone healing process were carried out by radiographic, ultrasonographic, and computed tomography methods periodically, in addition to histological analyses that were performed after 30 days from the beginning of the process. The surgical procedure consisted of creating a bone defect in the proximal region of the rabbits' tibia. The efficacy of the treatment with the extract was evaluated by comparing the rate and quality of bone consolidation among the groups and age ranges, observing the safety and viability of the extract as an alternative or complementary treatment for bone regeneration. This study contributes to the scientific knowledge of the therapeutic properties of wormseed in veterinary practice, bridging gaps between traditional knowledge and scientific research.

Keywords: Mastruz; Bone healing; Medicinal plants; Rabbits

Veterinary medical education takes place in colleges, university centers and universities, in Brazil the mandatory registration of this diploma came in 1940, since then courses have been emerging, taking shape from the needs of the regions of implementation and thus many changes occur throughout the history of each veterinary medicine course. In Maranhão, changes occur in relation to the general workload, mandatory, elective, common and professional subjects, but they always occur with the intention of complying with the National Curricular Guidelines. After decades of its creation, the veterinary medicine course at the state university of Maranhão underwent an update of the course's pedagogical project, in 1995 the subjects of Methods and Techniques to Support Diagnosis I and II were created to teach imaging techniques that assisted the veterinarian's clinical routine, with 90 and 60 hours respectively, stopped being offered at the end of the 90s, opening space for diagnostic imaging with 60 hours, which remains with this workload to this day after four updates to the pedagogical project of the course, but with considerable changes in the wording of the syllabus and the direction of basic and complementary references. The effects of this form of teaching are observed in the questionnaires answered by students and graduates of the Veterinary Medicine course at the State University of Maranhão.

Keywords: Imaging diagnosis. Teaching. Perception of Teaching

Knowledge of fish biology provides data for the correct management of fishing resources, enabling the formulation of conservation measures and fishing management. Considering existing gaps in the explored ichthyofauna, this research aimed to analyze the reproductive biology and trophic ecology of Conodon nobilis (Linnaeus, 1758) and Bagre bagre (Linnaeus, 1766) from artisanal fishing captured in the fishing community of Raposa, located in the Gulf Maranhão. 360 specimens were acquired for each species, between January and December 2021. In the laboratory, the biometric data of each specimen were recorded and then they were sectioned to remove the tissues, stomach and gonad. The gonadosomatic index (IGS), condition factor (K), sex ratio, type of spawning and spawning season were evaluated. Stomach contents were conditioned and preserved in 10% formaldehyde for analysis, identification and classification of food items at the lowest possible taxonomic level. The degree of repellency and feeding strategies of each species were analyzed. For C. nobilis the length ranged from 11 to 31.8 cm. The sex ratio was 1 Male:1.51 Female and negative allometric growth (b<3). Five stages of gonadal maturation were confirmed throughout the sampling period, for both species, namely: Immature phase (IM); Development phase (DP); Spawning capacity phase (SP); Regression phase (RP); Regeneration phase (RGP). The length of first sexual maturity (L50) for males was 18.94cm, for females it was 18.91cm and for the grouped sexes it was 18.92cm and according to the gonadosomatic indices, individuals in spawning capacity were found in the months of January, April, May, July, September and December, indicating which species has split spawning. This species adopts a generalist feeding strategy, with greater consumption of fish and crustaceans. However, due to the predominance of fish in the diet, C. nobilis can be characterized as a species with a carnivorous eating habit and a piscivorous tendency. For the Catfish catfish species, the length varied between 22.08 and 57.6 cm. The sex ratio found was 1 Male:1.29 Females and negative allometric growth (b<3). The length of first sexual maturity (L50) for males was 33.51cm, for females it was 29.40cm and for the grouped sexes it was 31.21cm and the highest gonadosomatic peaks in females were recorded in the months of January and August to December, while for males these peaks varied in the months of January, May, August and December, indicating split spawning. B. catfish demonstrates a generalist, predominantly carnivorous feeding strategy, with a preference for fish. Given this information, it is possible to define closed periods, minimum catch size, in addition to evaluating the impact of fishing on food chains with a view to proposing measures that minimize disturbances in ecosystems and help preserve fish populations at sustainable levels. 

Keywords: Reproductive cycle, food dynamics, fishing management.

Listeriosis, a disease whose etiological agent is the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes, affects humans, ruminants and other animal species through the ingestion of contaminated food. In a scenario of development of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), listeriosis would imply a greater risk to the health of animals. Thus awakening the interest of the scientific community in the investigation of new antimicrobial compounds. Essential oils, complex mixtures of secondary plant metabolites, have antifungal, anticancer, antiviral, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial activity, chemical composition and cytotoxicity of the essential oil of Ageratum conyzoides L. (Asteraceae). The aerial parts of the A. conyzoides plant (leaves and flowers) were subjected to hydrodistillation in a Clevenger apparatus coupled to a Quimis ultrathermostatic bath, extracting the essential oil (EO), isolated with a yield of 0.7%. The essential oil of A. conyzoides (OEAc) was subsequently analyzed, and its chemical composition determined by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). The antimicrobial activity, evaluated against four strains of L. monocytogenes (L. monocytogenes ATCC 7644 and three strains of food origin), was determined by the microdilution method, and the cytotoxic effect of EO was analyzed against RAW 264.7 murine macrophages, using the 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) colorimetric assay. GC-MS analysis allowed the identification of six chemical components present in A. conyzoides essential oil (100% of the total chemical composition). Of the total volatile constituents identified, two constituents, Precocene I (79.85%) and β-Caryophyllene (13.55%), were identified as the majority compounds. The other components were Bornyl acetate (1.55%), γ-Elemene (2.88%), β-Sesquiphellandrene (1.37%) and β-Nerolidol (0.80%). The evaluated antibacterial activity demonstrated that the OEAc tested has moderate (food isolate strains, MIC: 250 and 250 μg/mL) to strong (L. monocytogenes ATCC 7644, MIC: 31.25 µg/mL; and isolate strain food, MIC: 62.5 µg/mL) antimicrobial properties. It also showed significant cytotoxicity against RAW 264.7 cells (CC₅₀: 35 µg/mL). Thus, given its antibacterial properties, A. conyzoides essential oil appears to be a promising new source of natural antimicrobials, which will help in the development of new alternatives for the treatment of Listeriosis and innovative strategies to combat antimicrobial resistance.

Keywords: Ageratum conyzoides, antimicrobial activity, essential oil

Breed is a factor that influences the stability of femoral biomechanics, as body conformations that include weight, mass and muscle tone, as well as genetic predisposition and gait characteristics, are factors that determine the level of animal response to changes in the limb. Misalignment of femoral structures tends to result in loss of collinearity between the skeleton and joints, leading to orthopedic disorders that affect the welfare of animals. French bulldogs are among the chondrodystrophic breeds with a significant incidence of hip dysplasia and patellar luxation. Studies that assess the extent to which femoral axis deviations in this breed may be normal or already be capable of interfering with locomotion and bone health, need to be carried out for a better diagnosis and surgical treatment of orthopedic diseases resulting from these deviations. This study aimed to measure the joint angles and femoral axes specific to the morphology of this breed, with analysis of the results found in the face of hip dysplasia and patellar dislocation. Convenience sampling was performed, with ventrodorsal radiographs of the femur, obtained in Radiology Services, to measure the anatomical and mechanical axes, angles of inclination and length of the bone, on the VPOP platform. Tarsal, stifle and hip goniometry were performed using a plastic goniometer in French Bulldogs from breeders and tutors in the city of São Luis, Maranhão. The selection criteria were, animals with and without a history of orthopedic conditions, aged between 1 and 10 years, male or female, in addition, the radiographic images analyzed were selected based on the correct positioning of the bone. The analysis of the data found in the goniometry demonstrated to be homogeneous between the means of the left and right limb for each joint of the dogs (n-=18). It was not possible to select bilateral radiographic images in each animal for the axes evaluation sample, in addition, the files showed animals that already had a diagnosis of orthopedic diseases and some with correct positioning in only one limb, with that the sample was defined by femur selection (n=27) with and without diagnosis of orthopedic alteration, as a parameter the diagnoses of patellar luxation and hip dysplasia were used. There was no significant difference between the femoral axes with and without the alterations. New similar studies with the same breed and with a larger sample size are needed to characterize these data as a breed pattern. However, similar works, mentioned in this dissertation, were published even with a small sample number, demonstrating that, even if only as an additional scientific contribution, the data reported here can be useful for selection of more specific parameters of French Bulldogs by clinicians and orthopedic surgeons.

Keywords: angle of inclination, bulldogs, femoral angles,

Commonly recognized as opossum, saruê or opossum, the Didelphis marsupialis, is an animal that plays important roles in the environment, helping in the dispersion of seeds and in the biological regulation of populations. The relevance of the anatomical, functional, evolutionary and phylogenetic study of mammals for comparative studies presents an extensive documentary collection, since these contribute to the understanding of the biological habits of each species. However, research on the morphology of marsupial offspring is still scarce or non-existent. In this context, the aim of this study was to describe the phenotypic and organs of the digestive system of opossum Didelphis marsupialis offspring. We used 04 samples of pups, from four females, and that in their pouches had the number of pups respectively: 05 pups; 04 puppies; 06 puppies and 05 puppies. From each female, we use 1 pup. The material came from the collection of the Laboratory of Animal and Comparative Anatomy – Chapadinha Science Center/Federal University of Maranhão. All experimental protocols occurred in accordance with CONCEA, CEUA/UFMA and ICMBio guidelines. The specimens had their biometric data obtained in terms of dimensions and weights, followed by fixation in a 10% formaldehyde aqueous solution and preserved in 70% alcohol, and after a minimum time of 48 hours, washed in running water, and dissected for the anatomical analyses. After phenotypic description, they were desiccated for complete visualization of the constituent organs of the digestive system. As an important point of our research, we noticed that D. marsupialis had its body structure, such as the limbs, anatomically positioned in a definitive way since the developmental phase of the puppies of Experimental Group I, only growing along the phases. In our study, we observed the presence of organs of the digestive system, subject to identification and in constant development from Experimental Group I to Group IV. These results can be used to compare the morphogenesis of other species at different stages of development, regardless of the duration of the gestation period, considering the particularities of each species, therefore, the data obtained in this research can be applied to studies of ecology, zoology and more applied areas within the Biological Sciences, as well as contributing to the morphological study of this species.

 Keywords: Anatomy, Morphological Characterization, Opossum.

Bees play an essential role in maintaining life on our planet. Ter are responsible for the poliânions of varíolas plana species, thus fulfilling anu important role in todo and nutritional security, as well as in the existing biodiversity. However, in recent decades, the decline in the cative bee populários and the collapse of Apis mellifera bee colônias cave worried researchers, as well as professionals shop work directly in produtoinha. The consortium action of several fatoras has been identified as the cause of depopulation and loss of colônias, amoma them patogênese and pesas, including Varroa destructor and Aethina tumida. In the present study, collections were carried out in young and adherent adult bens, in order to define the rate of infestation of the V. destructor mite in the dry period and in the rainy perigo of the year in six apiaries located in the Amazon bico-me and in the Cerrado biome in the state of Maranhão. Inspections were algo carried out in order to períf. the presence of the beetle A. tumida. All collection sites were georeferenced. The results showed the presence of V. destructor in all sampled apiaries. In the inspections, no specimens of the Little Beetle Beetle, A. tumida, were found. From a results point of view, we suggest that the Official Veterinary Service take training courses on bee health, both for civil employees and beekeepers, as well as implementing constant surveillance in relation to notifiable diseases.

Keywords: Varroa destructor, Aethina tumida, Bee Health.

Bacillus thuringiensis is an entomopathogenic bacterium that has plasmids encoding several pesticidal proteins produced as crystalline inclusions during sporulation, such as the Cry protein, which has established pesticidal activity for several invertebrate pests. However, B. thuringiensis produces Cry proteins that lack pesticidal and hemolytic activity, and that have toxic activity against several human cancer cell lines. These Cry proteins are called Parasporins. Thus, this study aimed to carry out a bioprospection of Parasporin proteins in B. thuringiensis isolates from Maranhão. B. thuringiensis isolates were obtained from soil samples collected in several municipalities in Maranhão, identified according to colony form, growth in medium with penicillin and presence of the crystal. Pathogenicity tests were performed to select isolates with no or low mortality rate in Aedes aegypti larvae, and then DNA extraction and parasporin gene prospecting were performed. Hemolytic activity test was performed only for the isolates that amplified for the pararasporin genes. A total of 198 colonies of B. thuringiensis that grew in a selective medium containing penicillin and that presented crystals were obtained, with an average B. thuringiensis index of 0.50. Of the 198 isolates, 174 (87.88%) were submitted to pathogenicity tests and showed mortality < 20% against Ae. aegypti. The 174 B. thuringiensis isolates were used to detect Parasporin with primers PS1, PS2, PS3, PS4, PS5 and PS6. The isolates BtMAs-1196 and BtMAs-1254 amplified for the ps1 gene and when submitted to the hemolytic test, these isolates showed formation of intermediate hemolytic halo. The fact that the BtMAs-1196 and BtMAs-1254 isolates have amplified for the ps1 gene make them strong candidates for the evaluation of their cytotoxic activity, but further studies are needed on the mechanism of action of the PS1 protein, as well as the susceptibility of the receptor of cancer cells to the PS1 protein of these isolates, which may make the use of this protein viable as an alternative therapy for the treatment of cancer, or even as a molecular tool for the diagnosis of this disease.

Palavras-chave: Entomopathogenic Bacteria, Parasporin Protein, Hemolytic Activity

Rabies is an acute viral disease that affects mammals, caused by an RNA virus belonging to the family Rhabdoviridae and the genus Lyssavirus. The disease is transmitted through the bite or scratch of an infected animal. Rabies was one of the first infectious diseases to be scientifically studied, with a detailed description of symptoms and clinical course provided by Greek and Roman scholars in the early centuries AD. The global incidence of rabies varies in different regions of the world. It is estimated that the disease causes about 60,000 deaths worldwide each year, with higher prevalence in areas lacking effective control measures. Most cases occur in developing countries where animal vaccination and proper post-exposure prophylaxis are less accessible. The rabies virus has several variants that are specific to each reservoir, and in Brazil, five of these variants have been identified. This study aims to better understand the epidemiological aspects of rabies virus variants circulating in the state of Maranhão through immunological and molecular analyses, as well as their reservoirs and distribution in biomes. To achieve this, 62 biological samples sent to reference laboratories in the state between 2015 and 2022 were analyzed using fluorescent antibody test (FAT) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) techniques. The primers 504 (sense) and 304 (reverse) were used for the N gene in PCR reactions, amplifying 240 bp, and positive samples were subjected to genetic sequencing to identify the antigenic variant. Of all the samples, 74% tested positive in DIF and 63% tested positive in PCR. Among the samples negative in DIF, 19% were detectable for the rabies virus in PCR. Of all the samples that tested positive in both tests, only 28% were successfully sequenced, revealing antigenic variants of Desmodus rotundus and Cerdocyon thous. It was observed that these variants circulate in both the Amazon and Cerrado biomes, with the bat variant being more prevalent in the Amazon biome, while the wild canid variant was more prevalent in the Cerrado. Therefore, the wild canid variant raises an alert for epidemiological surveillance, as it is already being transmitted to domestic dogs and humans in the state of Maranhão.

 Keywords: Lyssavirus, bats, canid

Pneumonia/bronchopneumonia are a threat to animal health, causing high rates of morbidity and mortality, in addition to economic losses and costs with diagnosis and treatment. The objective of this research was to carry out a bacteriological study of respiratory disease in small ruminants in the region of Baixo Parnaíba Maranhense. Sheep and goats from the Baixo Parnaíba region were selected. Sheep and goats from the Baixo Parnaíba region were selected. 370 animals were evaluated and 12 samples were collected, 173 animals from the municipality of Araioses (147 sheep and 26 goats), 76 from São Bernardo (70 sheep and 6 goats) and 121 from Magalhães de Almeida (98 sheep and 23 goats). After collection, the samples were seeded in sterile, disposable culture plates containing 5% ovine blood agar (defibrinated ovine blood) and MacConkey agar and incubated in aerobic conditions at 37°C for a period of 24 to 48 hours. The isolated and identified strains were incubated in 2 mL of Brain Heart Infusion Broth (BHI) medium and incubated at 37º C for 24h. In vitro antimicrobial susceptibility tests were performed and herds from the Baixo Parnaíba Maranhense region were georeferenced. Of the evaluated animals, 11 showed clinical signs of a respiratory nature, 8 sheep and 3 goats, representing 2.91% (11/377). The isolates were classified and grouped according to genus and species, suggesting the presence of Pasteurella multocida, Manheimia haemolytica and Sthapylococuus sp. and Proteus sp. Gram-positive bacteria were 100% sensitive to tetracyclines, 50% sensitive to amoxicillin + clavulanic acid and enrofloxacin, and 41.6% sensitive to cephalexin. Whereas, gram-positive bacteria were 100% sensitive to amoxicillin + clavulanic acid, enrofloxacin, ceftiofur and cephalexin, 66.6% sensitive to gentamicin and 50% sensitive to tetracycline. The present study reports the presence of respiratory disease of bacterial origin in herds of goats and sheep in the State of Maranhão. High sensitivity of gram-positive bacteria was observed to amoxicillin + clavulanic acid (30 µcg), tetracycline (10 IU) and enrofloxacin (5 µcg). in relation to the gram-negative, there was a high susceptibility to amoxicillin + clavulanic acid (30 µcg), cephalexin (30 µcg), tetracycline (10 IU), enrofloxacin (5 µcg), gentamicin (10 µcg), penicillin (10 IU) and ceftiofur (30 µcg). Focus of respiratory disease were found in small ruminants in the municipalities of Araioses, Magalhães de Almeida and São Bernardo.

Keywords: Sheep. Goats. Bacterium.

This was the first report of the occurrence of these parasitic genera in the species P.argenteus in the middle course of the Tocantins River. Myxozoans are found worldwide and have significant economic importance as pathogens of cultured fish. In this study, two genera of the Mixobolidae family were identified, the genus Henneguya sp. and the genus Mixobolus sp. Seventy-five specimens of the curimatã Prochilodus argenteus were collected between March 2021 and July 2022 in the study stretch of the Tocantins River. The specimens captured alive were preserved in reservoirs under aeration to be transported to the Ecology and Limnology Laboratory of the State University of the Tocantina Region of Maranhão – LEL/UEMASUL, where they were reserved until the moment of analysis. As a DNA sample taken from the bodies of hosts containing the parasites placed in 80% ethyl alcohol. They were extracted with the Purelink ® Genomic DNA Kit (invitrogen, USA), following the manufacturer's specifications. Among the 75 specimens analyzed, the sex ratio of males and females was 2:1, with an average weight of 313.5g (± 226.1) and average length of 29.7cm (± 7.27). Molecular identification of the guests was performed by partial sequencing of the 18S rDNA gene from two tissue samples from the guests and comparison with the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) database. The genus Henneguya found in curimatás in the study area had a spore length of 12.9 ± 4.41 µm, spore width of 4.1 ± 1.2 µm, capsule length of 7.5 ± 2 µm, capsule width of 1.4 ± 0.5 µm and tail length of 27.5 ± 8.7 µm. The measurements found in the genus Mixobolus in the form of spores were: spore length 11.9 ± 0.92; spore width 9.09 ± 0.65; the two polar capsules are of equal size at 6.8 ± 1.6 in length and 2.22 ± 0.42 in width. Based on the findings inspired by this study, it was possible to characterize branchial infection by Henneguya sp. and infection in the kidneys and blood by Myxobolus sp. without P.argenteus. This was the first report of the occurrence of these parasitic genera in the species P.argenteus in the middle course of the Tocantins River.

Keywords: Henneguya, mixobolidae, parasitism

Trypanosomoses are diseases caused by species of the genus Trypanosoma. In horses, this disease causes damage to equideoculture, mainly due to silent initial clinical signs and chronic progression, which, in most cases, culminates in the death of the animal. In the state of Maranhão, which is located in the transition area of the Cerrado, Caatinga and Amazonia biomes, there was no record of the causative agent of this disease. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate the occurrence of Trypanosoma (Trypanozoon) evansi in horses in the state, by direct microscopy and Polymerase Chain Reaction/PCR assays based on the gGAPDH genes, which amplifies DNA sequence of the genus Trypanosoma, and the kDNA gene that encodes the mitochondrial DNA region of the minicircles present in T. evansi. For this, blood samples were collected from 300 animals from the municipalities of the North, West, Center and South Mesoregions of the state. These were used for direct diagnosis through blood smears and for molecular characterization by the conventional PCR technique. A structured questionnaire with those responsible for the sampled animals was also applied. In the direct diagnosis, suggestive forms of Trypanosoma trypomastigotes were not found. However, with regard to molecular detection, positive DNA amplification was obtained for the gGAPDH gene, a frequency of 8%, and for the minicircles mitochondrial gene, a frequency of 1%, which were sequenced and showed similarity with sequences from Trypanosoma evansi deposited in GenBank. With this result, it is possible to state that T. evansi is present in the equine herd in the state of Maranhão. and confirms the importance of carrying out periodic examinations in these animals and maintaining surveillance activities.

Keywords: horse, equine trypanosomiasis, first report

 ABSTRACT

The Neotropical freshwater ichthyofauna is the richest in species in the world, and is considered the largest group of vertebrates in existence and with greater adptive success to aquatic ecosystems. Moreover, the Tocantins River is inserted in the Araguaia-Tocantins basin, considered still important for the Neotropical biodiversity with an abundant biodiversity. In this sense, also considering that morphometry contributes to the study of the shapes and sizes of individuals of the same species and between distinct species, besides numerical estimates being used by statistical methods, the study aims to characterize three fish species from the middle Tocantins River through statistical analysis. For the construction of the database three fish species were captured: Triportheus angulatus, Curimata amazônica, Pellona castelnaeana using trawls and fishing nets with mesh sizes varying from 5mm, 7mm and 36mm. The fish were collected from sections of the Tocantins River such as Cacauzinho, Beira Rio, and Embiral. Soon after, the specimens were identified, following specific literature, and stored in freezer (-20 °C) in the Laboratory of Genetics and Molecular Biology - LabGeM of the Universidade Estadual da Região Tocantina do Maranhão - UEMASUL. For the statistical analyses, Microsoft Excel 2016 and R software were used, evaluating 7 variables of the three species under study: Standard Length (PC), Total Length (CT), Head (CC), Snout Length (FC), Eye Diameter (OD) and Height (AT) and Weight (W) and classified according to the degree of correlation. A total of 32 individuals of the species Triportheus angulatus, 42 of the species Curimata amazônica and 43 of the species Pellona castelnaeana were collected and the analyses of comparison were made by means of Person's correlation analysis and Linear regression analysis. In the mean analysis it was observed that the highest means were for the species Pellona castelnaeana and the closest standard deviation in the species Curimata amazônica and Triportheus angulatus. Regarding the Person analysis, in the Curimata amazônica species, CF was the only variable that did not show significant correlations (p>0.01). Triportheus angulatus showed significant correlations (p<0.05) between the variables CP and P, but weak. Something that was not observed in Curimata amazônica specimens, since they did not show correlations with any of the variables analyzed (p>0.05). In Pellona Castelnaeana with the exception of FC and OD that did not show significant correlations (p<0.05) respectively, the other variables showed significant correlations (p<0.01). It was possible to conclude that the morphometric characterization of the species in the middle Tocantins River proved to be efficient. Furthermore, it is important to emphasize that the information on the species Curimata amazônica is unpublished, since there are no studies on this species and no morphometric studies on the other species studied in this work.

Keywords: Biometria; Characiformes; Morfologia;

Fish are remarkably sensitive to anthropic interference in habitat. They produce different responses to these anthropic stresses, of a morphological, molecular, physiological and even behavioral nature, as well as the increase or reduction in the number of parasites, allow interpretations in the sanitary and environmental areas. This work aims to characterize the parasitic diversity of monogenoid of two species of freshwater fishes (Bryconops cf. affinis, and Crenicichla brasiliensis Bloch, 1792), which occur in the middle Munim RiverBasin. Sixty-four specimens of thebothhost species were collected using trawl nets and casting nets in tributariesof middle Munim River, in the municipalities Chapadinha and Anapurus, eastern Maranhão, during the dry and rainy seasons. The fish captured were taxonomically identified in the Laboratory of Systematic and Ecology of Aquatic Organisms (LASEOA) of the Federal University of Maranhão (UFMA). The 128 hosts were euthanized by spinal cord section, and after the session of all muscle spasms the gills were removed and packed in water heated to 70° C and absolute alcohol, resulting in a 70%concentration. The analysis and collection of ectoparasites was performed at the LAMP Immunohistochemistry Laboratory of the State University of Maranhão and in collaborators laboratories of the UFMA. Monogenoidea were obtained with thorough analysis of the gill arches, and transferred to blades containing Hoyer for the fixation and evidence of sclerotic structures, as well as the acquisition of microscopic images and identification of species. The parasites belong to two genera of monogenoid, which three species were identified: Diaphorocleidus affinis (Mizelle, Kritsky & Crane, 1968), Diaphorocleidus sp, both parasites of Bryconops cf affinis; and Sciadicleithrum sp., parasite of Crenicichla brasiliensis. Bryconops cf. affinis presented the highest parasitism rates. The parasitic occurrence showed direct influence from seasonality, with the rainy season presenting higher prevalence, average abundance, average intensity of infestation and amplitude. The occurrence of parasites was correlated with temperature (ºC) and dissolved oxygen (OD) in the rainy season for the two species of fish analyzed. In the present work, D. affinis is redescribed with new morphological data and new drawings. Diaphorocleidus sp., differs from all congeners species and is proposed here as a new species. Sciadicleithrum sp. also differs from its congeners, however, needs further studies to confirm the species. The Munim River Basin is a new geographical record for D. Affinis, Diaphorocleidus sp. and Sciadicleithrum sp. Therefore, considering the scarcity of studies on the parasitic fauna of small-sized freshwater fish, and the importance of sustainability of the middle Munim River basin for the municipalities. 

Keywords: Freshwater, Bryconops cf. affinis, Crenicichla brasiliensis, Helmintofauna, Ictiology

The link between domestic animals, humans and wild animals is complex, creating a challenge for areas of environmental conservation and human and animal health, and depending on the way humans interact with nature, it can result in important impacts on the wild environment, the welfare of domestic animals and public health. Considering the importance of small wild mammals, dogs and kissing bugs as reservoirs, the objective of this work is to research Trypanosoma cruzi in these hosts in the municipality of Santa Rita, North Maranhense mesoregion, state of Maranhão, Brazil. Household domestic dogs were selected, from which 5mL of blood was collected from each, through puncture of the cephalic or jugular veins. Blood smears were taken in duplicate from the blood collected and part of the blood was stored under refrigeration for molecular and serological analysis. To capture wild animals, thirty-one (31) traps (Tomahawk) were used, separated into trails, baited with different attractants. The captured animals were anesthetized, photographed, weighed and sexed and morphometric measurements were obtained, and some specimens that died/were euthanized to serve as witness species, biological samples were collected. Blood was collected by tail vein puncture or cardiac puncture, and was used to prepare blood smears, blood cultures and molecular diagnosis. Triatomine captures were carried out in peridomiciliary and domestic environments, by active and passive search with light traps. They were captured manually with tweezers and identified in the laboratory/LAMP/UEMA. The triatomines that arrived alive were subjected to abdominal compression for parasitological diagnosis. DNA extraction from the samples was performed and the T. cruzi kDNA gene was used for amplification. The amplicons were purified and subjected to sequencing reactions and were compared with the sequences deposited in GenBank. The data obtained were tabulated in Microsoft Excel spreadsheets and data were compared using the Chi-Square and Fisher's Exact tests. Differences were considered significant when p <0.05. 352 blood samples were collected from dogs and structured questionnaires were administered to those responsible, to obtain epidemiological data and risk factors. In only 1 sample was Trypanosoma trypomastigote forms observed in the blood smear. In the serological analysis, sixteen (16) dogs showed seropositivity. In molecular analysis, forty-nine (49) samples were positive. In combining the two analyses, 2 samples were positive. Seventeen (17) small wild terrestrial mammals were collected. Trypanosoma trypomastigote forms were identified in the blood smear of 3 samples of the species Didelphis sp. and D. marsupialis. Seven (07) samples of blood, spleen and liver from Didelphis sp., D. marsupialis and Monodelphis sp. were positive in molecular analysis. Seven (17) triatomines were collected and analysis of feces and intestinal contents was performed through abdominal compression in 3 individuals. In the molecular analysis, 11 samples were positive, 5 of the species R. pictipes, 5 of the species R. montenegrensis and 1 of the species P. lignarius. The results obtained in this study confirm the presence of T. cruzi in triatomines, small wild mammals and dogs in the studied area.

Keywords: epidemiology, one health, trypanosomatids

The skin is the largest organ in the body, because of that, it has a higher percentage of neoplasms diagnosed in the small animal clinic. As a diagnosis, in addition to physical evaluation and clinical history of the patient, cytopathology is used as a screening test and histopathology as the gold standard. Other exams can be used, such as immunohistochemistry and PCR, which use specific markers for each tumor type in order to assist in the treatment and prognosis of the patient. Surgery remains the first line of treatment for cutaneous mastocytoma, taking into account the principles of oncological surgery, such as asepsis, preservation of blood supply, careful approximation of tissues, etc. The aim of this study was to evaluate the gene expression of c-KIT, COX-2 and VEGF in surgical margins of cutaneous mastocytoma in dogs using PCR in addition to analyzing tumor recurrences and sentinel lymph nodes. Ten dogs with cytopathological diagnosis of cutaneous mastocytoma, with surgical indication, were evaluated. These were divided into groups: group 1 with animals that used a 2cm margin and group 2 with a 3cm margin. Histopathological examination and PCR examination of the surgical margin were performed to quantify the selected markers. By cytology, tumors were classified into high and low grade. In group 1, 3 animals (65%) were classified as low grade and 2 animals (35%) were classified as high grade. In group 2, 1 (20%) animal was classified as low grade and 4 (80%) were high grade. Regarding the histopathological analysis of group 1, all animals were classified as having grade 2 cutaneous mastocytoma, with 60% low grade and 40% high grade, according to the classification tables. In group 2, all patients were classified as grade 3 and high grade, concomitantly. In the evaluation of the groups in relation to the markers, there was no statistical difference between group 1 (margin 2 cm) and group 2 (margin 3 cm) in any of the markers tested. It is concluded that it was possible to detect the expression of COX-2, C-Kit and VEGF in the selected samples, with no statistical difference between the results, showing little influence on the prognosis.

Keywords: cutaneous mastocytoma, surgical margin, PCR, tumors markets 

The Tortoise (Chelonoidis carbonaria) is among the wild species of domestic life with casuistry of clinical and surgical care. Cardiological data such as size of cardiac chambers, morphology of valves and cardiac blood flow in these animals are poorly understood. Among the means of assessing cardiac function, the echocardiogram is a method that can be used in wild fauna, extrapolating its applicability to the small animal clinic for better monitoring and preservation. Thus, this study aims at the echocardiographic evaluation in B-mode, M-mode, color Doppler and pulsed Doppler in non-sedated Chelonoidis carbonaria. A total of 10 specimens were evaluated by echocardiography, aiming to obtain physiological data on the size of the cardiac chambers, ventricular volume in systole and diastole, ejection fraction, flow velocity in the valves, cardiac output and the thickness of the ventricular walls. A 3-chamber heart was observed: 2 thin-walled atria and 1 partially septate ventricle with a thicker wall and a trabecular appearance. The means of the quantitative data were: HR: 28 bpm ± 6; Ventricular volume in systole: 2.4 ml ± 1.8; Ventricular volume in diastole: 6ml ± 2.6; Ejection fraction (EF%): 58 ± 18; Ventricular wall thickness: 1.22cm ± 0.36; Atrioventricular flow velocity: 56.8cm/s ± 18.7; Aortic flow velocity: 75.9cm/s ± 31.9; Cardiac output: 101.9ml/min ± 66.5. It was concluded that using the cervico-brachial window it is possible to visualize the morphology of the heart and obtain quantitative and hemodynamic data.

Keywords: Cardiology, Chelonoidis carbonaria, Echocardiography

Small breed dogs are characterized by weighing up to 10 kg. In these breeds, the limbs are arched, the strength of the quadriceps muscle does not coincide with the axis of the femoral trochlea, and there is a prevalence of medial dislocation of the patella. Despite showing a higher incidence of medial dislocation of the patella in small animals, there are low levels of information regarding the anatomical and mechanical angles of the femur of small breed dogs. In this sense, the present work has as main objective, to analyze the anatomical and mechanical angles of the femur of small breed dogs with and without clinical signs of patellar dislocation. 45 femurs of small breed dogs were analyzed, 21 males and 24 females. The mean age of the animals evaluated in the control group was 8.06 years and the experimental group was 5.98 years. The animals in the control group have phenotypic characteristics of the breeds: 1) Borde Collie, (3) Poodle, (3) Shithzu, (1) Spitz, (1) SRD and (1) Yorkshire. And the experimental group, composed of animals that had patellar dislocation: (12) poodles, (6) Pinscher, (2) Pug, (2) Chiuhuahua, (1) Shit tzu, (1) Yorkshire, (4) Spitz, and (7) mixed-breed animals (SRD). They were treated in the Radiology sector of the Edilberto Uchôa Lopes University Veterinary Hospital of the State University of Maranhão (HVU-UEMA) and Radiography Laboratories located in the city of São Luís, from 2020 to 2021. The angle measurements were performed using the application vPOP, and later tabulated. For statistical analysis of the results, distributed in an EXCEL spreadsheet, Past 4.3 and python software were used. First we graphically analyzed how the variables correlated according to the group of animals through scatter plots, we also graphically evaluated how each measure was distributed for each group using the function graph of the distribution of each anatomical angle for each group. A t test was performed on the means of each variable between the experimental group and the control group. Also compared groups with substantial N between males and females. A normality test with multiple comparisons was also performed, with bonferroni correction. We then performed a one-way ANOVA between the groups for each anatomical angle to test whether the groups had significantly different measurements. For the relationship between the measurements of the anatomical and mechanical angles according to sex, a multivariate analysis was adopted. We performed a two-way ANOVA to assess whether there was an interaction between sex and group/race. To deduce that the alignment deformities in the femur is due to the poor distribution of forces from adjacent joints, triggering various diseases.

Keywords: Patellar dislocation, Small dogs, Anatomical angles. Mechanical angles

Subsistence poultry farming is an activity present in the lives of most rural communities in the state of Maranhão, having an important cultural and economic role. In domestic poultry breeding sites, it is common to witness the interaction and breeding of these animals with wild and migratory bird species. These aspects can favor the dispersion and occurrence of several infectious and parasitic agents, since these animals can act as potential biological carriers or mechanical transporters, allowing them to colonize new areas and parasitize susceptible hosts. Birds are considered excellent indicators of environmental quality, as they can act as sentinels for parasitic infections, due to the impacts caused on their physiology, survival and reproduction. Avian leukocytozoonosis is caused by protozoa of the genus Leucocytozoon spp., having two subgenera, Leucocytozoon and Akiba. Its transmission occurs through the bite of dipteran insects, belonging to the Simuliidae and Ceratopogonidae families. Therefore, the objective of this work was to verify the occurrence of Leucocytozoon spp. in free-range chickens on the island of São Luís, Maranhão. For its identification using the Nested PCR technique, blood samples were collected from free-range chickens, originated from the four municipalities that are part of the island of São Luís - MA. Of the 100 samples of extracted genetic material analyzed, all showed negative results. Such results may be related to low levels of parasitaemia in the bloodstream, low amplification of the parasites DNA or the absence of insect vectors in poultry breeding sites. Due to these aspects, the detection of this parasite through Nested PCR can be underestimated, as well as lead to false negative results, however, further studies are needed. Although the presence of Leucocytozoon spp. has not been identified in this study, it is extremely important to offer adequate sanitary management to domestic birds, carry out epidemiological surveillance and monitoring of migratory birds and vector insects of avian hemosporidians, in order to avoid the occurrence of these parasites in poultry farms.

Keywords: hemosporidians, birds, molecular diagnosis

The present study aimed to evaluate the healing effect of Aloe vera on experimentally induced wounds in sheep. Fifteen sheep, SRD, castrated males, aged between 6 and 12 months, were divided into three groups of five animals. The skin wounds were made in the right and left paralumbar fossa and the animals were submitted to the following treatments: Negative control group (GN): animals treated with 1 mL of 0.9% saline solution, Positive control group (GP): treated animals with 0.1 gram of allopathic ointment based on 35% Lauryl dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride and Aloe vera Group (GA): animals treated with 1g of 10% Aloe vera extract. Topical treatment was performed in the three experimental groups for 22 days every 24 hours. For macroscopic evaluation, the following aspects were evaluated: hemorrhage (present or absent), crust (partial or total, exuberant or not exuberant, dry or with secretion, and color); granulation tissue (present or absent, and color), swelling, color and hair growth in the area adjacent to the wound, and epithelialization. For microscopic evaluation, skin fragments were collected for morphological evaluation on the 1st, 8th, 15th and 22nd postoperative day. In the results obtained macroscopically, it can be inferred that the Aloe vera extract at 10% for the treatment of skin wounds in sheep proved to be effective and therefore its use can be suggested as a treatment, since, through the macroscopic evaluation performed throughout the experiment, this group showed positive results regarding its efficiency. In the microscopic analyses, the three groups presented similar results in the evaluation on the 1st, 8th, 15th day, differing only on the 22nd postoperative day, where the Aloe vera group had a lower amount of mononuclear cells, consequently edema. Therefore, macroscopically and microscopically, Aloe vera showed a satisfactory healing effect, and may be indicated as an alternative in the treatment of cutaneous wounds in sheep.

Keywords: Aloe vera. Aloe. Healing. Sheep.

This work aimed to carry out a bacteriological study of the bacterial agents involved in the complex of respiratory diseases of dairy calves (CDRB) in the state of Maranhão. The samples were collected by means of nasal swab and were cultured on blood agar and MacConkey agar plates, after which Gram staining, biochemical tests and antibiogram were performed. A total of 550 calves, distributed among 29 herds, were evaluated, obtaining a total of 45 samples of animals with a clinical picture suggestive of CDRB, representing a frequency of 8.18% (n=45). The frequency of positive herds was 44.82% (n=13) and that of municipalities was 63.63% (n=7). Of the 45 samples, 37 showed bacterial growth on plates. The bacteria isolated were suggestive of Mannheimia haemolytica 24.32% (n=9), Pasteurella multocida 18.91% (n=7), Histophilus somni 2.70% (n=1), 2.70% (n=1), Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae, 5.40% (n=2), Corynebacterium sp., 21.62% (n=8), Moraxella bovis, 2.70% (n=1), Pseudomonas aeruginosa, 10.81% (n=4), Staphylococcus sp., 5.40% (n=2), Streptococcus sp. 2.70% (n=1), 2.70% (n=1) and Arcanobacterium. In the antibiogram, all isolates were sensitive to amoxicillin + clavulanic acid (30 μcg), amoxicillin (10 μcg), erythromycin (15 μcg), ceftiofur (30 μcg) and tetracycline (30 μcg) 100% (n=37). The herds visited were georeferenced in which the positive animals came from the following municipalities: São João do Caru, Itapecuru-Mirim, Araioses, Bernardo do Mearim, Lima Campos, Igarapé Grande and Poção de Pedra. Thus, the present work concluded that CDRB is present in dairy herds in the state of Maranhão and the following bacteria were isolated: Mannheimia haemolytica, Pasteurella sp., Histophilus somni, Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae, Corynebacterium sp., Moraxella bovis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus sp., Streptococcus sp. and Arcanobacterium.

Keywords: Bacteria. Calves. Respiratory tract.

Hibiscus sabdariffa L. is a plant species that belongs to the Malvaceae family, popularly known as vinegar in the state of Maranhão, it is a plant rich in proteins, fats, carbohydrates, acids, minerals, vitamins and several types of phenolic compounds, it has a wide use in the food and pharmaceutical industries. This study aimed to evaluate the activity of the hydroalcoholic fraction in ethyl acetate and dichloromethane of vinegar (H. sabdariffa L.), against strains of Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus, as well as to analyze the composition and detect the presence of phenolic compounds in the aerial parts of the vinegar plant. For this, the aerial parts of H. sabdariffa were sent to the Rosa Maria Mochel Herbarium located at UEMA where they were identified and the plant material collected was sent to the Food Science and Technology Center of the Instituto de Pesquisas Científicas e Tecnológicas do Estado do Amapá – IEPA. The hydroalcoholic fraction in ethyl acetate and dichloromethane of the vinegar were evaluated for the content of total phenolic compounds and the antioxidant activity by column chromatography on silica gel. The thin layer chromatography analysis was performed with the liquid-liquid extraction fractions and with the column chromatography fractions, being compared with the quercetin standard. Hibiscus showed distinct antibacterial activity, probably related to soil, climate and phytonutrient availability, influencing the concentrations and even the quality of total polyphenols and anthocyanins in the different structures, which justifies the values found in the present study. The results suggest the continuity of studies involving the different structures of hibiscus and the factors responsible for its antimicrobial activity (total polyphenols and anthocyanins).

Key words: Hibiscus. Antiocyanins. Microorganisms

Kinosternon scorpioides is a native chelonia from Amazon region, he is vulnerable to environmental anthropic actions. This species is also part of the wildlife of Maranhão, having economic, cultural and social importance to the riverside dwellers. Considering that there are gaps concerning the biology of the species in the understanding of the bone constitution, we justify this study aims to describe its bone structure. It was used 10 adult animals (5 males and 5 females) from the collection of the Scientific Breeding for Kinosternon scorpioides were used, with the methodological phases of dissection, maceration in controlled water, degreasing, bleaching and bone drying to the environment. Followed by identification, description of bone structures and photographic records. The skeleton of K. scorpioides is composed of the axial skeleton (bones of the head, vertebral column, carapace and plastron (N=156)) and appendicular (bones of the thoracic and pelvic limbs (N=124)), totaling 280 bones. It is concluded that the species under study maintains the pattern of other chelonian species described in the literature, which is the first report of all bone components. The skeletal pattern of bone support of chelonians is repeated in the species in question, keeping the morphological and functional adaptations of freshwater chelonians.

Key-words: Morphology. Skeleton. Wildlife. Chelonia. Conservation

Bartonella spp. and Mycoplasma spp. are bacteria, the ones worldwide and that infect humans and animals. Mycoplasma spp. are small, gram-negative bacteria that have a pleomorphic morphological shape, located on the surface of erythrocytes and, sometimes, can be found free in plasma and can bind to the surface of mammalian red blood cells. On the other hand, Bartonella spp. are characterized by being gram-negative, coccobacillary shaped, pleomorphic bacteria that have the ability to infect erythrocytes and cause prolonged intraerythrocytic bacteremia in mammals. The objective of this work was to determine the occurrence and genetic diversity of Mycoplasma spp. and Bartonella spp. in ruminants from the Baixo Parnaíba and Médio Mearim regions in Maranhão. To this end, blood samples from 235 cattle were collected in the municipalities of Lima Campos, Pedreiras, Trizidela do Vale, Poção de Pedras, Bernardo do Mearim and Igarapé Grande, belonging to the Middle Mearim Microregion. Finally, blood samples from 161 animals, 91 goats and 70 sheep, were collected in four municipalities in the Baixo Parnaíba microregion, namely: Chapadinha, Anapurus, Brejo and Mata Roma. Blood samples were subjected to DNA extraction and molecular assays were performed. The present study demonstrated that of the 235 samples of cattle and 161 samples of small ruminants (91 goats and 70 sheep) tested, submitted to conventional PCR (cPCR), 7 cattle (2.97%) and 4 (2.28%) small ruminants (3 goats and 1 sheep) were positive for Mycoplasma spp. In contrast, there was no positivity for Bartonella spp. among the samples tested for the nuoG gene, by means of real-time PCR (qPCR) in the regions worked on. Such findings contribute to the understanding of the distribution of Mycoplasma spp. and Bartonella spp. demonstrating that there is no presence of Bartonella spp. in the herd and studied and so far there is a low occurrence of Mycoplasma spp. in ruminants in the Baixo Parnaíba and Médio Mearim region in Maranhão.

KEYWORDS: Northeast, hemoplasma, bartonellosis, molecular biology

CAMPOS, N.R.C.L. Evaluation of the physical and cellular efficiency of cryopreserved bovine semen used in biotechnology. [Avaliação da eficiência física e celular do sêmen bovino criopreservado utilizado em biotecnologias]. 2022, 63p. Dissertação (Mestrado em Ciência Animal), Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciência Animal, Universidade Estadual do Maranhão, São Luís, 2022.

The use of reproductive biotechnologies in cattle breeding has been installed with the mission of increasing the productivity of herds and improving their genetic quality. Fixed-time artificial insemination, as well as other biotechnologies, are characterized by being constantly growing techniques in their use. Semen cryopreservation is a biotechnique combined with several biotechnologies, as it allows the transport and storage of genetic material for a long period, however it can cause serious cellular damage to sperm, interfering with their fertility. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of central cryopreserved semen in fixed-time artificial insemination programs. For this purpose, semen from six bulls from central offices was evaluated for morphology, the heat-resistance test, plasma and acrosomal membrane integrity, mitochondrial potential, sperm kinetics by CASA and quantification of sperm lipoperoxidation. Were performed 3.087 fixed-time inseminations, among heifers, primiparous, multiparous and single. Each female underwent up to two resynchronizations, being performed a pregnancy diagnosis by transrectal ultrasonography 30 and 60 days after insemination. The seminal evaluation parameters of motility, vigor and morphological test were satisfactory according to the parameters established as minimum for commercialization. In conclusion, we understand the need to develop techniques that predict more efficiently the field fertility of bulls, since factors beyond those established as standard for commercialization interfere in the response in pregnancy of semen used in fixed-time artificial insemination.

Keywords: Seminal cryopreservation; fertility; fixed-time artificial insemination; bovine 

Dogs are animals in frequente contact with humans and can be infested by fleas, ticks and lice that could transmit infectious and parasitic diseases to animals and to man. This study had the objective of identify ectoparasites and search for Rickettsia sp. in dogs in the municipalities of Belágua and President Juscelino, state of Maranhão, Brazil. An questionary was applied to collect epidemiological data. The identified ticks were submitted to molecular analysis toi search for Rickettsia sp. Geographical coordinates were assessed to analyse the special distribution of the ectoparasites species. A total of 248 dogs were samples (208 from Belágua and 40 from Presidente Juscelino). From these total, 171 (68.96%) were infested by ectoparasites, 132 (77.20%) from Belágua and 39 (22.80%) from Presidente Juscelino. 461 ectoparasites were collected (346 ticks, 30 lice e 85 fleas) of the following species: i - ticks: Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato, Amblyomma ovale, Amblyomma cajannense s.l. e Amblyomma tigrinum; ii - lice: Heterodoxus spiniger, Trichodectes canis; e iii - fleas: Ctenocephalides felis. The frequency of R. sanguineus (313/90.47%) was superior to the other tick species, followed by A. ovale (31/8.95%). R. sanguineus was most frequent in Belágua (172/54.96%), while A. ovale was most frequent in Presidente Juscelino (27/87,10%). The species A. cajannense s.l. and A. tigrinum were less frequentin both municipalities (1/0,29%). From the 30 lice identified H. spiniger was the most frequente (29/96.67%) when compared to T. canis (1/3.33%). C. felis was the only identified species. From the total of 171 infested dogs, 45 (26.62%) presented multiple parasitismo as follows:27 (60%) presented an association of R. sanguineus e C. felis followed by R. sanguineus and A. ovale (10/22.22%), R sanguineus e H. spiniger (4/8.89%), C. felis e H. spiniger (2/4.44%), R. sanguineus, A. ovale e T. canis (1/2.22%) e R. sanguineus, A. ovale e C. felis 1 (2.22%). The mapping of ectoparasites in the municipalities showed overlapping species, demonstrating the presence of several species in the same environment. In this study the resulto Rickettsia in the tick species R. sanguineus s.l, A.cajennense s.l, A. ovale e A. tigrinum by the PCR was negative. This study represents the first report of A. tigrinum in the state of Maranhão and T. canis in dogs.

Key-words: Ectoparasites, dogs, patogens.

Ectoparasites often found infesting wild mammals belong to the phylum Arthropoda, orders Phthiraptera, Siphonaptera, Mesostigmata and Ixodida. Thus, the study of the interaction of host, vector, environment and pathogenic bioagents interfaces is essential to understand the parasitic fauna, since these organisms are vectors of disease-causing pathogens in animals and humans. In this study, a survey of ectoparasite species infesting small rodents and marsupials was carried out in the Environmental Protection Area of Maracanã de São Luís, Maranhão. For this, marsupials and rodents were captured using Shermman and Tomahawk traps, and adding baits to each of them. All traps were inspected daily. After the capture of Marsupials and rodents, a visual inspection for the presence of ectoparasites was carried out, and the ectoparasite specimens were collected with the help of tweezers, and after stored in eppendorf with 70% alcohol for further screening. A total of 21 non-volant small mammals were captured. 192 ectoparasites were collected on these hosts. In this way, the occurrence on parasite-host-environment interaction of non-volant small mammals has been fundamental in the conservation and prevent programs on negative impacts of the biodiversity and public health and these reults are pioneers for future studies in the APA Maracanã.

Keywords: Ectoparasites; Marsupials; rodents; APA Maracanã

This study aimed to establish data on the occurrence and results of antibiogram of the main bacterial agents involved in diarrhea in dairy calves in the state of Maranhão. The samples were collected by means of a rectal swab and were cultured in plates with specific media, afterwards Gram stain, biochemical tests and antibiogram were performed. 10 municipalities were studied, with 230 acquired calves, distributed among 20 properties. A total of 21 animals with clinical signs of diarrhea were obtained, representing a frequency of 9.13%. The frequency of positive properties was 35% (n = 7) and that of municipalities was 50% (n = 5). The bacteria belonged to the Enterobacteriaceae family, with 42.9% (n = 9) suggestive for Escherichia coli, 23.8% (n = 5) for Klebsiella spp., 14.3% (n = 3) for Salmonella spp., 9 , 5% (n = 2) for Proteus spp. and 9.5% (n = 2) for Enterobacter spp. On the antibiogram most of them showed resistance to Penicillin G (100 %) and Erythromycin (33% resistant and 67% intermediary) and excellent sensitivity to Enrofloxacin (5 μcg), Ceftiofur (30 μcg), Cotrimoxazol (25 μcg), Streptomycin (10 μcg), Florfenol 30 μcg) and Gentamicin (10 μcg). It was possible to observe that diarrhea is present in dairy calves in the state of Maranhão, with presence of bacteria belonging to the Enterobacteriaceae family and compatible with Escherichia coli, Klebsiella spp., Salmonella spp., Proteus spp. and Enterobacter spp. Animal faeces had a pasty to liquid consistency, brown, yellow to greenish in color, with no presence of blood, and it was not possible to establish a pattern in which the macroscopic findings of the faeces could be correlated with their etiological agent. The studied bacteria showed resistance with Penicillin G (10 IU) and Erythromycin (15 μcg) and sensitivity to Enrofloxacin (5 μcg), Ceftiofur (30 μcg), Cotrimoxazole (25 μcg), Streptomycin (10 μcg), Florfenicol (30 μgg) and Florphenol Gentamicin (10 μcg), the latter being recommended for treatment. The municipalities that carry positive animals were São Luís, Itapecuru-Mirim, São João do Carú, Araioses and Bernardo do Mearim. All properties had inadequate hygiene and facilities.

Mastitis is the infectious disease that mostly affects dairy cattle, causing severe economic losses. Thus, this study aimed to determine the prevalence, etiology and microbial sensitivity in dairy cows with clinical and subclinical mastitis in the Maranhão herd. 170 crossbred dairy cows from 14 farms were evaluated. The black background mug test was performed for the diagnosis of clinical mastitis cases and the California Mastitis Test (CMT) for the detection of subclinical mastitis. 120 milk samples were collected individually from the affected teats for microbiological analysis. Of the 170 cows evaluated, 2.35% (4/170) had clinical mastites and 34.11% (58/170) had subclinical mastitis. Of the 672 udder quarters tested, 1.33% (9/672) had clinical mastites and 16.51% (111/672) subclinical mastitis. As for the etiology, the percentage of isolated bacteria was 26.66% (32/120) of coagulase positive Staphylococcus, 20.83% (25/120) of Streptococcus agalactiae, 16.66% (20/120) of coagulase negative Staphylococcus, 4.16% (5/120) of Corynebacterium bovis, 2.50% (3/120) of Streptococcus dysgalactiae, 2.50% (3/120) of Streptococcus uberis, 1.66% (2/120) of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and 0.83% (1/120) of Pasteurella multocida, in 24.16% (29/120) of the samples there was no growth. In the antibiogram, 100% of the isolates of coagulase positive Staphylococcus, coagulase negative Staphylococcus, Streptococcus spp. and Pasteurella multocida were sensitive to Cephalexin. 100% of the coagulase negative Staphylococcus isolates, Streptococcus spp. and Pasteurella multocida were sensitive to Enrofloxacin and Chloramphenicol, the sensitivity of coagulase positive Staphylococcus isolates to the same antibiotics was 93.8% and 90.6% respectively. 100% of the coagulase negative Staphylococcus and Pasteurella multocida isolates were sensitive to Ceftiofur and Erythromycin, of the coagulase positive Staphylococcus isolates, 96.9% were sensitive to the same antibiotics and of the Streptococcus spp. isolates, the sensitivity was 96.8% and 90.3% respectively. The highest resistance rates were 74.2% of Streptococcus spp. to Tetracycline, 64.5% of Streptococcus spp. to Streptomycin and Gentamicin and 40.6% of Staphylococcus coagulase positive to Penicillin G. It was concluded that the frequency of clinical mastitis was low and subclinical mastitis was high in dairy herds in Maranhão. The main bacterial agents found were coagulase positive Staphylococcus, Streptococcus agalactiae and coagulase negative Staphylococcus. The most effective antibiotics were Cephalexin, Enrofloxacin, Chloramphenicol, Ceftiofur and Erythromycin.

Key words: Bovine, Mastitis, Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, Antibiogram.

Pets such as dogs and cats are considered reservoirs for some diseases of public health importance. Due to a considerable increase in the transmission of American Tegumentary Leishmaniasis (ATL) in the domestic environment and studies reporting parasitism in dogs, we have sought to understand the role of this species in the epidemiology of ATL, and its interaction with the agents of the disease. The diagnosis and correct identification of the species that are involved in the infection is important, especially in endemic regions, to know the epidemiological profile of the disease and support strategies for treatment and control. This study seeks to evaluate the occurrence of Leishmania amazonensis in dogs and cats in an endemic area for visceral leishmaniasis, identifying the epidemiological aspects involved in infection by this species. For this, the Indirect Immunofluorescence Reaction (RIFI) was performed with L. amazonensis antigen, and the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) was performed for the amplification of the ITS1 region, the digestion of the PCR fragments was performed for identification of Leishmania species. A total of 330 dog samples were collected, of these 152 (46.06%) were seropositive for L. amazonensis. Of these samples, 78 (66.67%) were also seropositive for Leishmania infantum. At PCR, 12.42% (41/330) were positive samples, confirming the profile of L. infantum in 8 samples, and in one sample, mixed infection of L. infantum and L. amazonensis. Regarding cats, 21 samples were collected and 6 (28.57%) were seropositive for L. amazonensis, and in PCR there were 2 positive samples with digestion profile for L. infantum. Male dogs, over the age of 1 year, who have escape habits or access to the street and who live in residences close to places of forest or vacant land and with the presence of wild animals in the peridomicile were the ones who presented higher seropositivity in this study. In this study, high seropositivity for Leishmania amazonensis was found in dogs domiciled in the Itaqui-Bacanga area. Cats also showed seropositivity for this species. This is the first report of Leishmania amazonensis in dogs and cats in the state of Maranhão. Keywords: Cutaneous leishmaniasis. Coinfection. Dogs and cats. Indirect Immunofluorescence Reaction.

The northern tiger cat (Leopardus tigrinus) is one of Brazil’s least studied felids, with no published population density estimates. A potential key conservation unit for the species is Mirador State Park (MSP) in NE Brazil, an area that also hosts humans and domestic dogs. Therefore, we assessed the park’s importance in terms of tiger cat conservation and whether domestic dogs present a threat to the survival of this species. We established 52 camera trap stations at three sites and monitored them for a total of 5,030 trap-days. We calculated population densities using spatial and nonspatial methods and relative abundances for MSP and extrapolated to the other protected areas and corridor that comprise the Cerrado Biosphere Reserve in its northern portion. We conducted a population viability analysis for tiger cats in the park and assessed the potential impact of domestic dogs. The tiger cat density estimates were 0.12 and 0.25 individuals/km2 (nonspatial) or 0.087 and 0.11 individuals/km2 (spatial), whereas the relative abundances ranged from 0.124-2.168 individuals/100 trap-nights. The tiger cat population was estimated at 522 individuals, with 0% extinction probability within the next 100 and 1,000 years, but only in scenarios of mild to no disease outbreaks. Strong outbreaks or habitat loss are fatal for the species survival in the area. Domestic dogs were detected at 80% of the stations where tiger cats were observed. The threat of disease transmission by domestic dogs potentially impact 65% of the park, and seems to be the ultimate threat for the species there. Northern tiger cat population was estimated at ca. 700 individuals in the entire protected area system of the northern savannas, which with the additional corridor of the Biosphere Reserve could yield up to 2,000-3,000 individuals. Our results provide the first published density estimates of tiger cats and confirm the potential threat of domestic dogs to this felid in Mirador, thereby strengthening the park’s importance as a key area for tiger cat conservation and the need for conservation actions. Given its density and abundance, as well as area size, compared to other locations of the northern savannas, MSP rises as the most important site for the worldwide long-tern conservation of Leopardus tigrinus.

The dissertation is divided into 3 chapters. Chapter I portrays the literature review that served as the basis for the main themes related to cheloniculture, slaughter and consumption of chelonian meat, with emphasis on the species Kinosternon scorpioides (historical context, taxonomy, current legislation and creation of the species in captivity). Chapter II describes the physical-chemical and chemical characterization of fresh and freeze-dried meat from Jurará (Kinosternon scorpioides). Chapter III characterizes the crude oil extracted from the jurará viscera, highlighting the determination of the fatty acid profile. This distribution gave rise to the research project that dealt with the study on the potential of jurará meat (Kinosternon scorpioides): A proposal for commercial use for its conservation in nature. A sample group of 15 adult specimens of this species, with an average weight of 365g, were placed under food and water restriction for a period of 48 hours, after which they were slaughtered according to BEA standards. The results of this study confirm that the jurará meat has a physicochemical characteristic of red meat with productive viability because it has a low fat content (5.49 ± 0.11) and a high protein value (82.36 ± 0.15), with a meat yield of 16.38%, containing in the chemical composition of crude visceral oil 16 fatty acids in its composition among the saturated: Cáprico, Láurico, Mirístico, Pentadecanoico, Palmítico, Margárico and Esteárico; monounsaturated fatty acids: Miristoléic, Palmitoleic, Cis-10-heptadecenoic, Elaidic and Oleic (omega-9) and the essential polyunsaturated of the omega-3 family (Linolenic and Linoleic), Eicosadienic and Arachidonic. These characteristics make commercial production of this species viable for commercial purposes viable by Normative Instruction 07/2015 of IBAMA.

Key words: Meat, Slaughter, Oil, Wild fauna, Cheloniculture, Turtle.

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a worldwide zoonosis caused by the protozoan Leishmania infantum. The main reservoir is the domestic dog and its transmission is usually due to the vector insect haematophagous action of the species Lutzomya longipalpis. However, transplacental vertical transmission and venereal transmission have been described over the last years, so studies report that transmission occurs unilaterally. It is extremely important to conduct studies involving the reproductive tract of dogs regarding its susceptibility and resistance to infection, as there are no reports on its immunological characterization in these cases. This research aimed to characterize the male reproductive tract infection in dogs naturally infected VL, with emphasis on immunopathological and parasitic aspects. Blood and tissue samples from the genital tract of symptomatic (n = 9) and asymptomatic (n = 7) males naturally infected with L. infantum were collected from euthanized animals of the veterinary Hospital “Francisco Uchoa Lopes” on Universidade Estadual do Maranhão (UEMA) and the Unidade de Vigilância em Zoonoses (UVZ) in São Luís Island – MA. The collected materials were submitted to serological and molecular diagnostic methods, as well as histopathological, immunohistochemical and qPCR analysis for parasite load evaluation and cytokine expression. All animals analyzed had a positive diagnosis in at least one of the tests performed. A little macroscopic lesions frequency was observed in the segments, however, histopathological changes were characterized mainly by inflammatory infiltrate with a macrophages predominance in the foreskin, epididymis, prostate and glans, in addition to the germinal epithelium degeneration in the testicles. Leishmania sp. amastigote forms in the foreskin and prostate through immunohistochemistry. There were statistical differences in the quantification of parasitic load on the tissues analyzed in comparisons between the tissues / groups, with the foreskin as the only tissue with significant divergence between its groups. Thus, the present study demonstrated that the male reproductive tract is a frequent site of parasitism by Leishmania and it must be included as a differential diagnosis during the evaluation of infectious lesions in that region.

Keywords: Leishmania sp.; dogs; reprodutive tract; histopathology; qPCR

Parasites of the genus Trypanosoma have already been listed in several species of freshwater and saltwater fish, most of which are described based on morphological characteristics. They have a heteroxene life cycle and are transmitted by hirudines. The present study aimed to verify the presence of Trypanosoma sp. in freshwater fish of the species Hoplias malabaricus in the municipality of Santo Amaro, Maranhão, Brazil. Four collections were made, totaling 50 fish. Samples of blood and organs (spleen, liver, kidney and heart) for molecular diagnosis were collected. Blood smears were also made to search for the parasite. The prevalence of Trypanosoma in blood smears was 28% (14/50) and the intensity was 9.21% (129/14). In order to identify Trypanosoma species by molecular method (PCR), DNA extraction was performed from the blood and organs samples (spleen, liver, kidney and heart). This was used for PCR amplification of a gene segment, with an 800 bp fragment of the gene that encodes the glyceral glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase enzyme (gGAPDH). In PCR, 15,84% (29/183) samples were positive, which were purified and cloned in plasmid pGEM-T. In this way, clones of 13 samples were obtained. The fish presented sequences identified as a species close to Trypanosoma clandestinus and Trypanosoma granulosum, suggesting that there may be a relationship between these species of Trypanosoma in fish. Future studies, using V7V8 SSU rRNA and gGAPDH sequences, for better molecular characterization are needed to confirm the presence of the fish trypanosome species found in the research for insertion into the aquatic clade.

Keywords: Fish. Trypanosoma sp. Maranhão

Brazil has one of the largest equine herds in the world, having a headcount of over 5 million heads. Horses are likely to be affected by the most varied diseases, among which are hemoparasites, which are caused by agents called hemoparasites. In horses, two hemoparasites are responsible for causing high economic losses in herds, anaplasmosis and piroplasmosis. Equine granulocytic anaplasmosis (EGA) is an infectious, zoonotic disease, transmitted by ticks, being caused by the bacterium Anaplasma phagocytophilum. The clinical signs of AGE are fever, depression, partial anorexia, edema in the distal limbs, jaundice, petechiae and reluctance to move. Equine Piroplasmosis (EP) is a disease that affects horses and also other equines, being caused by Theileria equi or Babesia caballi. The disease impacts on international equine transit both in trade and in the participation of animals in competitions. Clinical signs observed in EP are fever, anorexia, weight loss, lethargy, mucosal petechiae, peripheral edema, among others. Tick-borne bioagents have an impact on animal health in a given region. Thus, the objective was to determine the occurrence of Babesia caballi, Theileria equi and Anaplasma phagocitophylum in horses in the Southern Mesoregion of Maranhão State. Blood samples were collected from 213 horses, of which 130 were male and 83 were female. Of the total number of animals, 200 were older than 1 year and 13 aged 1 year or less. At the time of collection, epidemiological questionnaires, blood smears and ticks were collected for taxonomic identification of the species. DNA was extracted from all samples of blood, with the Invitrogen ™ Purelink ™ Genomic DNA Mini Kit extraction kit as recommended by the manufacturer. So far no hemoparasites have been detected in the blood smears. The next step is to perform PCR from all extracted DNA samples, antibody detection by serology (IFAT), finally, determine the occurrence of these agents in the Southern Mesoregion of Maranhão State.

The great Amazonian rivers play a decisive role in the distribution of mammal species, notably the stretch that 

comprises the middle Tapajós, in Pará. The construction of large hydroelectric projects puts the local biodiversity 

at risk, since forests are subject to disappearance due to the flooding of extensive areas. This study aimed to 

differentiate the mammal community between the banks of the Tapajós River, verifying if the river functions as a 

barrier / limit for non-flying mammal species between ecoregions and areas of endemism; and to identify which 

species can be directly impacted with the suppression of the igapó forest. The study was carried out in the middle 

Tapajós, in the central Amazon between the months of July / 2012 and November / 2013. Sampling for small non-

flying mammals was carried out by capture using Sherman® and Tomahawk® traps, for medium and large mammals

 active search was carried out, with direct observation of species or traces, and the use of camera traps. Diversity and

 similarity indices were calculated, and the Relative Abundance Index. We evaluated the probability of occupation 

and detection of medium and large mammals in relation to the distance to the river, to the road and elevation,

 through occupation models (Presence and GLM). We obtained records of 123 species of mammals for the region,

 including rare species, difficult to detect and endemic to ecoregions and distinct areas of endemism. We found 

differences in composition between the river banks only for the group of small non-flying mammals and primates.

 The occupation models for primates did not explain the occupation of Sapajus apella and Saimiri ustus, but all 

were valid for Plecturocebus moloch. The distance to the river influenced the occupation of A. nigerrima, M. 

leucippe and C. albinasus and the distance to the road to other four species. In models made with GLM, the 

detection of all groups of mammals was related to the distance to the river. For the mammals of the middle 

Tapajós, the igapó forests are serving as habitat, source of resources and food. We emphasize that the intense 

use of the igapó forest by the entire mammalian community, thus emphasizing the importance of the area studied

 for biodiversity conservation.

Neurogenesis in adult mammals occurs mainly in the subventricular and subgranular areas of the brain, but there are also reports of its occurrence in the spinal cord. By culturing tissue from neurogenic regions, it is possible to obtain neural stem cells (NSC) and neural progenitor cells (NPC) that are characterized by their potential to generate neurons and neuroglia. In a study with rats, it was possible to obtain these cells by primary culture of spinal cord, but there are no studies in dogs, which justifies the present work by representing a reliable source for studies on neurogenesis and neuroregenerative spinal cord therapies in this species. Because of this, this study aims to isolate, cultivate and characterize NSCs and NPCs from the spinal cord of canine fetuses in the final third of gestation. Cells were isolated from spinal cord fragments and were cultured in a serum-free culture medium supplemented with EGF, FGF-2 growth factors and a combination of both. These cells were observed daily by optical microscopy for analysis of their morphological characteristics. After 3 days in culture, it was possible to observe translucent cell clusters similar to neurospheres with approximately 50 μm, and after 7 days, they grew to a size of approximately 200 μm. By comparing the neurospheres treated with the different growth factors, we found that their shape was similar but the diameter and number of clusters in the group treated with FGF-2 were smaller. All growth factor groups expressed the characteristic genes of neurospheres, like SOX-2, an important marker for pluripotent stem cells, Nestin, a marker for NPCs, and GFAP, which is mainly expressed by immature glial cells and astrocytes. However, the FGF-2 group showed a higher expression of GFAP, whereas the EGF group had a higher Nestin expression, being possible to presume that in neurospheres originated from canine spinal cord FGF-2 stimulates gliogenesis. Besides gene expression, the cells were also marked phenotypically by immunofluorescence for Nestin, GFAP, and Beta-tubulin III proteins, characterizing them as neurospheres and finally concluding that it is possible to isolate and cultivate neural stem cells and neural progenitor cells from the spinal cord of canine fetuses.
Keywords: cell culture; stem cells; neurosphere.

Chapter I is a literature review about the main characteristics of the species Kinosternon scorpioides in the biological, ecological, reproductive and morphological fields, in addition to comparisons of these characteristics with those of other phylogenetically close species. Chapter II includes the histological description of the embryonic development of kidneys and gonads of captive K. scorpioides. A stereomicroscope was used to define the stages of embryonic development, based on the phenotype of the embryos. For the analysis of the gonad-nephron complex, the light microscopy technique with hematoxylin-eosin staining was used. It was utilized 105 eggs, five from each embryonic stage, total of 15 stages. The formation and degeneration of the pronephros was not observed. From stage II onwards, the appearance of proximal and distal convoluted tubules in the mesonephric tissue was noticed. Renal corpuscles were observed from stage V. From stage VII it was possible to observe the gonads macroscopically. Until stage X, the gonads were observed undifferentiated. The mesonephros followed the embryo to the hatching phase, or stage XV, with progressive development of its structures and vascularization. There was no clear definition of the renal cortical and medullary layers. It is suggested that: the appearance and degeneration of the pronephros occurs before stage II of development; the mesonephro remains functional in the animal's youthful life; the metanephros begins its development after the animal is born and remains functional in adulthood.

Keywords: mud turtle, embryology, organogenesis, kidneys, gonads

Chagas disease is a neglected parasitic zoonosis caused by the flagellated protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi, which infects a wide variety of wild and domestic mammals, having various triatomine species as vectors. Studies conducted in Brazil have pointed the domestic dog as sentinel animal in the epidemiology of the disease, especially in rural areas. Although the state of Maranhão is not currently considered an endemic area for Chagas disease, in the capital São Luís there is a proven home cycle associated with the domestic rat and a wild cycle maintained by didelfidae. However, there are few studies directed to T. cruzi infection in dogs domiciled in an urban environment. Thus, the objective was to investigate the occurrence of T. cruzi in dogs domiciled in the Itaqui Bacanga area, São Luís, Maranhão, through parasitological, serological and molecular techniques. A total of 330 dog blood samples were collected and structured questionnaires were administered to the guardians to obtain epidemiological data and risk factors. From the collected samples, fresh blood smear slides, indirect immunofluorescence (IFAT) reactions were made for serological diagnosis and polymerase chain reactions (PCR) for molecular detection. The data from the questionnaires were tabulated in a database. Of the 330 animals sampled, 141 (42.7%) animals were reactive in the IFAT. In PCR, 55 (16.6%) positive samples were identified, and so far, no forms of T. cruzi were found in blood smears. These results infer dogs' contact with tripanosome. However, it is considered the possibility of co-infection and / or cross-reactions with other trypanosomatids, especially Leishmania spp., because the study area is endemic for leishmaniasis. However, the serological diagnosis is expected to be closed with the ELISA test and the identification of T. cruzi by genetic sequencing to elucidate the presence of the parasite in the region and in the sampled animals.

Key-words: Chagas disease. Domestic host. Sentinel. Serology. PCR.

ABSTRACT
Visceral leishmaniasis is a disease of great importance to Public Health because it is a
zoonosis and because of its wide distribution worldwide. The laboratory culture of
Leishmania infantum chagasi is necessary to understand its complexity, leading to
studies to develop vaccines and drugs that have an action against the protozoan. The
present study aims to standardize the cultivation of L. infatum chagasi and to analyze
the parameters of infectivity after successive passages. Promastigote forms of L.
infantum chagasi isolated from a dog were cultured in different commercial media and
one of them was added 2% human urine. The counting by hematometer was done
during seven days, resulting in a growth curve. For infectivity analysis, BALB / c
peritoneal macrophages were infected with promastigote forms of L. infantum chagasi
grown with the highest growth media. The results demonstrated that Schneider's
medium supplemented with 2% sterile human urine induced a greater growth of the
promastigote forms of L. infantum chagasi when compared to other commercial media
and to Schneider without supplementation with urine. In addition, it was observed that
the Schneider medium supplemented with 2% urine presented parameters of infectivity
superior to Schneider's medium without supplementation. After selection of the
Schneider medium supplemented with urine, it was observed that from the third passage
there was a decrease in the parameters of infectivity in BALB / c peritoneal
macrophages. The added medium of human urine was the only one in which it was
possible to define the logarithmic and stationary phases having a peak of growth on day
5. The decreases in the infectivity parameters may be related to the need to perform the
complete cycle of Leishmania.
Keywords: Leishmaniasis; Leishmania infantum chagasi; Cell culture; Urine;
Infectivity; Schneider’s Insect Medium

ABSTRACT
The record of the use of plants is ancient, they were used for the purpose of preventing and curing the symptoms of diseases. With the evolution of the studies, there has been progress in understanding its effects on man and animals, facilitating its use. By means of a survey, the information obtained in the community of the city of Fortuna - MA was evaluated, with a view to recovering and valuing the population's knowledge about toxic plants. The methodology used was exploratory, allied to the active search in the community and rural properties, the branches of the plants were collected with leaves, flowers and fruits with approximately 30 cm in length. The specimens were packed in a newspaper and placed between corrugated boards and the use of wood presses twisted and tied by string, so that they were under pressure. The plant material was sent to the Rosa Mochel Herbarium (SLUI) of the Department of Chemistry and Biology of the State University of Maranhão, for drying, confection of exsicatas, categorization and taxonomic identification. There were 10 species of plants identified by the inhabitants, planters, ranchers, breeders and farmers as toxic to "Mataíba" or "Olho de bode" (Matayba sp.); "Fava Danta" or "Faveira" (Dimorphandra mollis); "Jurubeba" (Solanum crinitum); "Açaita caballo" (Luhea divaricata); "Conduru Preto" / Conduru Branco (Ephedranthus sp.); Besoureiro "(Senna Fruticosa); "Grain of Goat" (Tabenaemontana catharinensis); "Ivory" (Agonandra brasilienses); "Rosca" (Chloroleucon acaciode). Of the 10 plant species identified in the active search as toxic, 6 species have reported in the literature regarding their toxic potential. These results show the importance of the lifting, of the tracing and mapping in the identification of toxic plants of medical-veterinary interest, and encourages the accomplishment of researches and experiments on these plants, as well as of the vegetal species that do not have research concerning their pharmacological activity.
Keywords: Maranhão, intoxication, Thick.

ABSTRACT

Visceral leishmaniasis is a chronic disease of a systemic character, being one of the main zoonoses spread worldwide. It is a protozoa belonging to the Leishmania genus, with the dog as the main reservoir of the disease. In this context, the present study aimed to evaluate the clinical, hematological, biochemical and humoral profile of dogs naturally infected, vaccinated or treated against canine visceral leishmaniasis (LVC). Blood samples were collected from 40 animals from the University Veterinary Hospital - UEMA, private veterinary clinics and residences, divided into 4 groups: group 1 - 10 dogs positive for LVC and symptomatic; group 2 - 10 positive and asymptomatic dogs; group 3 - 10 positive dogs and submitted to therapy with Miltefosine and group 4 - 10 healthy dogs and vaccinated against LVC. To confirm the LVC diagnosis, parasitological tests (medullary smear) and serological tests such as indirect immunofluorescence (IFI) and Enzyme – Linked Immunosorbent. Hematological tests (complete blood count), biochemical tests (urea dosage, creatinine, ALT, total proteins and fractions), as well as immunoglobulins (IgG total, IgG1, IgG2, IgA, IgE e IgM) were performed in all blood samples. Hematologic and biochemical alterations, such as anemia (70%), thrombocytopenia (70%), hyperproteinemia (50%), hyperglobulinemia (50%) and hypoalbuminemia (40%) were associated with renal (60%) and hepatic were the most evident in dogs belonging to the symptomatic group. In dogs treated with Miltefosine, a variable pattern was observed, with clinical and laboratory improvement and worsening in relation to some parameters evaluated after treatment. In healthy and vaccinated dogs, post-vaccination examinations were within normal limits with increased lymphocyte (90%) and plasma protein (70%) levels compared to pre-vaccination exams.

Key words: Leishmaniasis. Immunoglobulins. Dog

ABSTRACT

The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of Toxoplasma gondii in pigs submitted to slaughter in the city of São Luís-Maranhão, using serological, histopathological and molecular diagnostic methods. 60 samples of serum and tissues of tongue, diaphragm and porcine masseter were used in the research. As a serological technique, the indirect immunofluorescence reaction (IFAT) was performed to detect anti-T gondii antibodies. The tissues of the samples considered positive in this test were submitted to histological processing for visualization of the parasite and degree of associated lesions. DNA extraction and subsequent Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) were also used. Of the pigs analyzed, 76% (46/60) of the serum samples had anti-T antibodies. gondii. Of these, 24 animals (52.17%) were positive in the PCR assays, considering at least 1 positive tissue per animal evaluated. Macroscopically, no anatomopathological changes were observed. Only 1 tissue sample evaluated presented a circular morphology structure of approximately 50 micrometers, surrounded by a thin capsule containing bradyzoites, suggestive of a T. gondii cyst in a tongue fragment. With the results obtained, the high infection rate of these animals and the considerable importance of this study are evident, since they can be considered as indicative of the sanitary condition of the pigs slaughtered and marketed in the Island of São Luís-Maranhão, besides the risk of T. gondii infection in the animal and human population, thus constituting a public health problem. It is necessary to adopt prophylactic measures to minimize the negative effects of T. gondii infection on pigs slaughtered for human consumption in the region studied.

Keywords: Coccidia, swine, zoonosis, diagnosis.

ABSTRACT
Amphibians of the genus Chaunus belong to the family Bufonidae, possessing great
diversity, with 93 species, where 20 of these species occur in the region North of Brazil
distributing if we Amazon biomes (Pará and Maranhão), Savannah (Maranhão and
Piauí) and Caatinga (Piauí). This study aimed to identify the species of the complex
Rninella marina and chaunus granulosus evaluating your evolutionary unit in areas of
the Amazon, Cerrado, Caatinga biomes and ecotones in North region of Brazil. The
specimens were obtained through the methods: Search limited by time (PLT), sampling
in Reproductive Sites; Intercept and trap fall (Pitfail trap) and by donations. Total DNA
was extracted from muscle tissue using Genomic DNA Purification kit Promega
Wizard. For the isolation and amplification of nuclear and mitochondrial genes was
used the technique of polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The products of PCRs were
purified using kit ExoSap IT and submitted to the sequencing reaction. The data
obtained were analysed in specific software, such as: BioEdit, MEGA, DNAsp BLAST
and BOLD platforms and Systems. The data from this study showed that through the
external morphology were identified belonging to two species complex a. marina and
R. granulosa, where the Cane Toad comprises the species R. marina, R. schneideri,
R. jimi and R. cerradensis and the R. granulosus species, R. granulosa and R.
mirandaribeiroi. In addition, it was identified the species R. margaritifera that is not part
of any of the complex. Unlike the morphology, with the use of rRNA16S gene, showed
the R. marina complex formed by the species R. schneideri and R. marina and R.
granulosa by R. granulosa and R. mirandaribeiroi. The species R. cf. margaritifera was
confirmed as an independent evolutionary unit. The magnitude of genetic differences
in all the analysis of evolutionary trees for this gene revealed the formation of two
compounds with two evolutionary units for each of the complex. Gene analysis of 16S
rRNA gene COI differently, it was verified the occurrence of two taxonomic status R.
jimi and R. ornata. Has been verified yet indicative of a hybridization event represented
by two species that have been found coexisting in the same habitat.
Keywords: Frog, DNA, taxonomy.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of melatonin on the in vitro bovine embryos production.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: The experiment was conducted at LABRA/UEMA. The ovaries were collected at the municipal slaughterhouse. The cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were distributed among treatments 0, 10^-1, 10^-3 e 10^-5 µmol/L of melatonin. The experiment was divided into two phases, which the first one was to evaluate the effect of different concentrations of melatonin (treatments) on the maturation rate of COCs and the second, the effect of melatonin treatments on the in vitro production of bovine embryos. 100 COCs were used per treatment during both phases of the experiment. Only the Grade I and II COCs were selected for in vitro maturation.

RESULTS: In the first phase, it was observed that there was no significant difference in the in vitro maturation rate of the cultivated COCs. In the second phase, the cleavage rates of the control groups, 10^-3 μM and 10^-5 μM obtained similar rates and there was no difference between these treatments. The 10^-1 group was statistically lower. Concerning the blastocyst rates, the 10^-5 μM treatment group was statistically superior to the other groups under study, the rest of the groups did not present significant difference among each other. Embryonic development rates based on in vitro developmental stage showed that in morulae ratio, the 10^-3 μM group was higher than the rate obtained by the 10^-5 μM group and similar to the Control and 10^-1 μM groups. Control groups, 10^-1 μM and 10^-5 μM were similar to each other (P <0.05).

CONCLUSION: The supplementation of melatonin in the medium of in vitro maturation showed no improvement in oocyte maturation rate. Melatonin supplementation in the in vitro production of embryos at different concentrations was not able to improve the in vitro post-fertilization phase, however the 10^-5 μM group presented more cleavage, morula, blastocysts rate during the culture period.

Keywords: COC, Melatonin, IVP, Follicular Aspiration

Ehrlichia canis is a pathogen of great importance in Latin America, with high prevalence in Brazil, the treatment of the disease is done only with an antibiotic of the tetracycline group, doxycycline, because there are no effective alternatives. The aim of this work was to verify the action of the crude methanolic extract of Ageratum conyzoides L. (family Asteraceae) on DH82 cells infected with Ehrlichia canis. The method used for the preparation of the extract was percolation and chromatographic analysis was performed by means of HPLC to identify the secondary metabolites present in the extract. The yield of the extract was 9.08%. Phytochemical analysis showed the presence of three classes of compounds: phenolic acids, flavonoids (aglycones and glycosides) and terpenes. The concentration which significantly reduced the rate of E. canis infected cells was 500 μg/ml. Therefore, raw methanolic extract of A. conyzoides L. may be a promising matrix of compounds in the fight against canine ehrlichiosis

The bovine viral immunodeficiency is a chronic and progressive disease that mainly affects cattle, inducing signs of persistent leukocytosis, lymphadenopathy, progressive weight loss. It may be associated with decreased milk production and lymphocyte response. Therefore, the objective of this study was to verify the occurrence of the Bovine Immunodeficiency Virus (BIV) in the bovine herd of cattle of the Southwest of Maranhão. In order to verify the occurrence of BIV in the herd of cattle, the proviral DNA was detected in 550 bovine blood samples from 31 properties by means of the semi-nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR-SN) using oligonucleotide primers specific for the pol region genome of the virus. Of the 550 samples tested on SN-PCR for BIV, 19 (3,4%) were positive. The amplified sequences were confirmed by nucleotide sequencing. The similarity of the nucleotide sequence of the samples isolated with the Washington isolate was 96%. Statistically significant risk factors associated with the dissemination of BIV were considered in this region: use of milk and dairy products to feed other animals, purchase of animals for reproduction and presence of flooded areas on the property. This study reveals the first detection of the presence of BIV in the Maranhão herd of cattle, alerting the possibility of the virus to act as a risk factor for the of the bovine populations of the region.

Kinosternon scorpiodes is a semiaquatic chelonium, found on the banks of rivers and flooded fields in the Amazon region and Maranhão. The physiology of the chelonians generally encompasses three particularities of extreme importance for anesthetic procedures: the circulatory system, the respiratory system and thermoregulation. The physical and chemical containment of these animals is necessary in direct management actions. Due to the lack of studies with wild, errors of manipulation and administration of therapeutic drugs or anesthetics become common. The aim of this study was to establish the physiological reference values, electrocardiographic profile under normal conditions and to evaluate the response of this species submitted to three different anesthetic protocols. Fifty animals were used to study the physiological values and electrocardiographic profile, while 18 K. scorpioides were used to study the anesthetic response. Clinically healthy animals, adults, males and females, kept at room temperature varying between 28 and 36ºC, coming from the experimental farms of the State University of Maranhão. For physiological values, heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (RR) and cloacal temperature (WC) were determined. For the determination of electrocardiographic profile, a computerized ECG PC ECG electrocardiograph was used. The animals were divided into groups of six animals: Group KM: Ketamine (100mg/kg) and midazolam (2mg/kg), Group TZ: Tiletamine-zolazepam (5mg/kg) and Group KD: Ketamine 20mg / Kg and Dexmedetomidine (0.15mg / kg). The quantitative evaluations were: HR, RR, (WC) and electrocardiographic values at times: T0, T10, T30 and T60. For the qualitative parameters locomotion evaluation, muscle relaxation and manipulation ability, in addition to evaluation of pain sensitivity. The protocols were evaluated for sedation, intubation and anesthesia recovery. As regards the physiological values, HR = 49 ± 15 bpm, RR = 6 ± 3 mp3m and WC = 26.3 ° C ± 1.23. The ECG values were: P (mV) 0.04 ± 0.01mV, P (ms) 52.1 ± 11.6ms, PR interval 237 ± 59ms, QRS 63.5 ± 10.4ms, R wave 0.2 ± 0.1mV, QT 667 ± 167ms, QTc 577 ± 107ms and T wave 0.06 ± 0.02mV. We conclude that the physiological data and electrocardiographic profile determined in this study can be used as reference for this species, and that the protocols used in the KM and TZ groups can be used for noninvasive procedures, whereas the protocol used in the KD group, for more painful procedures.

O mormo é uma doença milenar que acomete os equídeos e pode ser transmitida ao
homem. Até o momento não existe vacina e o seu tratamento não é recomendado. Foi
identificada a primeira vez por Aristóteles e Hipócrates, no passado o agente etiológico
da doença a Burkholderia mallei foi amplamente utilizado como arma biológica.
Erradicada de países como Estados Unidos da América (EUA), Inglaterra, Austrália,
Canadá e endêmica na África, Ásia, Mongólia, Oriente Médio, América Central e do
Sul. A primeira notificação da doença no Brasil ocorreu em 1811, após anos sem a
ocorrência da doença no Brasil em 1999 Mota e colaboradores confirmaram a
reemergência da doença em Pernambuco e Alagoas a partir de então focos da doença
vem sendo identificados em todo o território nacional. O Maranhão é um estado da
região nordeste que possui atualmente um rebanho de 200.105 equinos, 101.728
muares, 34.977 asininos totalizando 336.810 equídeos. Pelos aspectos que ressaltam a
importância do mormo como doença reemergente com impacto em saúde animal e
humana e por inexistir um estudo sistematizado em período de tempo mais abrangente
no Estado do Maranhão, foi proposto determinar a ocorrência de mormo no período de
2007 à 2017, utilizando dados do Ministério da Agricultura, Pecuária e Abastecimento –
MAPA, Agência de Defesa Agropecuária do Estado do Maranhão - AGED e um
Laboratório particular. Em todo o período de levantamento foram analisadas 62.555
amostras sendo que destas um total de 37 animais foram considerados positivos para a
doença. Na análise foram constatados que o maior número de casos positivos foram
identificados no norte maranhense, certamente pela quantidade de amostras processadas
na região que mostrou-se superior às demais em função da quantidade de eventos
agropecuários muito comum, haja visto que para trânsito de equídeos se faz necessário o
exame negativo para Mormo. Comprovou-se que ocorreu uma redução na quantidade de
positivos com o passar dos anos, provavelmente em função da adoção de ações
preconizadas pelo PNSE. Com base nos dados analisados, referente ao período
estudado, foi possível concluir que o mormo é endêmico no Estado do Maranhão e que
medidas educativas como realização de palestras, distribuição de folders nos locais dos
eventos agropecuários e nos diferentes municípios em que ocorreu maior quantidade de
animais positivos com intuito de esclarecer o criador sobre a doença; intensificação da
vigilância nos eventos e no trânsito dos equídeos devem ser mantidas como meio de
impedir que o Mormo se propague às outras regiões do Estado.

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are undifferentiated cells with a high capacity of proliferation and transformation into several specialized cells. They are found in tissues such as bone marrow, umbilical cord, dental pulp, periodontal ligament and adipose tissue. Although MSCs isolation has been already well established, in buffaloes it is still a challenge. In buffaloes, stem cells represent an ideal tool for embryogenesis study in vitro, favoring the development of effective methods for somatic cells cloning, transgenesis and gene regulation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the gene expression of pluripotency and stem cells markers in cells isolated from the bone marrow of buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) post mortem. After isolation and cultivation, samples were frozen until the assays. Morphological analyses were made through optical and electronic microscopy. The growth curve and immunophenotyping were made by flow cytometry. After 24 hours was observed cell adhesion into culture plates. The cells showed high expansion capacity in vitro, presenting an average of 85% confluence on the fifth day of culture. Flow cytometry showed a small cell population with little granularity. The populations of bone marrow cells were positive for the marker of mesenchymal cells Vimentina (72.7%). In the analysis of the genetic expression by qRT-PCR in cells of the marrow there was no expression of any of the genes analyzed, whereas in umbilical cord cells mRNA transcripts of the genes CD29, CD44, SOX-2 and NANOG were expressed. We can conclude that as mesenchymal stem cells can be isolated post-mortem of adipose tissue and bone marrow of buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis), and that as characteristics presented by umbilical cord cells, confirm that these are mesenchymal stem cells.

Thirty healthy bitches or ones affected with pyometra, aged between eighteen months and eight years, submitted to ovariohysterectomy (OH), were evaluated clinically and laboratorially. The animals were divided into three groups of ten: OSH / E - Healthy bitches submitted to ovariohysterectomy by elective surgery (E); OH / P - Bitches with pyometra (P) that submited to OH; and OH / OH + PRL - Bitches with pyometra (P) submitted to OH, receiving intravenous infusion of Ringer's solution with sodium lactate (10 mL Kg-1 h-1) during the OH surgery up to 40 minutes after its end. All groups received the same anesthetic and surgical procedures on the pre and trans-operative period, and their evaluations consisted of clinical and laboratory parameters (hematological and biochemical) at the time: Preoperative (T0) - immediately before the animals entered the surgery; and Post-surgical (T1) - after 40 minutes of surgical procedure. The main changes were: inappetence, emesis, prostration, hypochromic normocytic anemia, leukocytosis, hypochloremia, decreased values of ionized calcium and pH, but with no statistical difference (P> 0.05). It is still really relevant to the animal welfare criterion due to the non-alteration compared to several studies. The continuous infusion of the Ringer's solution with sodium lactate was effective on the trans-operative period, being able to extend for a longer time to be observed an even more significant improvement.

Trypanosomes have been reported in several freshwater and freshwater fish species, with most species being described based on morphological characteristics. Fish parasitic trypanosomes are heteroxenes and are transmitted by hirudines. The present work had as objective to know a diversity of Trypanosoma in captured fishes, participation of municipalities of São Bento and Bacurituba in the Baixada Maranhense, through molecular parameters. Two collections were carried out, totaling 103 samples involving four species, Hoplias malabaricus (traíra), Hoplerythrinus unitaeniatus (jeju), Pygocentrus nattereri (red piranha) and Tilapia sp (tilapia). Blood was collected by cardiac puncture for the preparation of blood smears, which were fixed with methanol and stained by Giemsa for trypanosomes. The general frequency of trypanosomes was 51/103 (49, 51%). In order to identify as trypanosome species by molecular method, positive blood smears are used for DNA extraction. This was used for PCR amplification of two gene segments, such as bar code, parasite group, an 800-900pb fragment corresponding to the V7 and V8 variable region of the gene encoding a minor subunit of ribosomal RNA, a 600- 700 bp corresponding to the gene encoding glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate glycosidic dehydrogenase (gGAPDH). Of the 51 blood smear positive specimens, 37 were positive for both or the gene segments, which were cloned into plasmid pGEM-T. In this way clones of 17 samples were obtained, being 6 for the region V7V8 and 11 for gGAPDH. In the sequencing, 7 sequences of trypanosomes of the species Hoplias malabaricus (Traíra), Hoplerythrinus unitaeniatus (Jeju) and Pygocentrus nattereri (Red Piranha) were found. Thus, the fish were shown to have sequences of a single species and as identified as a species close to Trypanosoma clandestinus by BLAST analyzes. This is the first study with Trypanosoma in fish from Northeast Brazil and the results of the present study reinforce the need for molecular characterization using sensitive approaches to evaluate the repertoire of trypanosome species that infect these host

The bats belong to the order Chiroptera, the second largest order of mammals in species diversity. The Molossids make up an important segment of the fauna of bats, with ecological, economic and sanitary implications. Despite the large number of morphological and molecular characters used for identification and phylogenetic reconstructions of bat species, the results are still inconclusive. Molecular markers have been widely used as tools in population and phylogenetic studies, increasing the ability to identify species. Thus, the present study aims to characterize through morphology, morphometry, craniometry and molecular data the bats of the Molossidae family occurring in the Cerrado and Amazonian Maranhenses biomes, as well as to detect the presence/absence of the rabies virus. For this purpose, expeditions were made to the municipalities of Maranhão: Godofredo Viana, Carutapera, Cândido Mendes and Caxias. After the collection, the bats were taken to the Laboratory of Genetics and Molecular Biology of the CESC/UEMA, where morphological identification occurred based on classification keys, removal of muscle tissue, which was stored and fixed in 90% alcohol for the molecular studies, and encephalic tissue for the Direct Immunofluorescence test. After identification, photographs and removal of the morphometric measurements, the cranial structure of the specimens was removed through the mouth opening with the skin folded. Using a manual pachymeter, 15 morphometric and 25 craniometric measures were measured. Total DNA was obtained using the PROMEGA kit, isolation and amplification of the genes rRNA 16S and COI occurred via Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) using specific primers and the purified PCRs products were sequenced. The molecular analyzes were performed by software such as: BIOEDIT 7.0 and MEGA 7.0. For the correct species identification and analysis of similarities The BOLD Systems v3 and BLAST platforms were used. The multivariate analysis was performed in STATISTICA 7.0 software. The diagnosis for the rabies virus occurred through the technique of Direct Immunofluorescence (IFD) in the Laboratory of Virology of the Universidade Estadual of Maranhão, Campus São Luís. In this study, 115 specimens distributed in six species and four genera belonging to the Molossidae family were registered for the Maranhão biomes. For species of the genus Molossus, the discrimination between the variables by the stepwise method was significant, for males λ = 00020, F = (26.8) = 21.516 p <0001, and for females with values of λ = 00430, F = (36.59) = 8.8476 p <0000. Molecular data from the 16S rRNA gene showed an average intraspecific divergence ranging from 0 to 1.4%. For the COI gene the mean intraspecific divergence ranged from 0.7 to 1%. The morphology, considering morphometry, craniometry and molecular data record the occurrence of six species for the Molossidae family: Molossus rufus (Geoffroy, 1805) Cynomops abrasus (Temminck, 1826) Nyctinomops laticaudatus (E. Geoffroy 1805) Molossops temminckii (Williams and Genoways, 1980) and Cynomops planirostris (Peters, 1866) for the Cerrado biome and Molossus molossus (Pallas, 1766) for the Amazon biome. The brain tissue samples submitted to the test (IFD), were negative.