Immunohistochemical and morphological features of a small bowel leiomyoma in a black crested macaque (Macaca nigra)

Background

Since 2008, a progressive pneumonia has become prevalent in broilers and laying hens. This disease occurrs the first day after hatching and lasts more than 30?days, resulting in approximately 70% morbidity and 30% mortality in broilers. The objective of this study was to isolate and identify the pathogens that are responsible for the progressive pneumonia and establish an animal model for drug screening.

Results

193 serum samples were collected from 8 intensive farms from 5 provinces in China and analysed in the current research. Our clinical survey showed that 65.2% to 100% of breeding broilers, breeding layers, broilers and laying hens were seropositive for ORT antibodies. From 8 intensive farms, six ORT isolates were identified by PCR and biochemical assays, and two H9N2 viruses were isolated. Newcastle Disease Virus (NDV) and Infectious BronchitisVirus (IBV) were excluded. Typical pneumonia and airsacculitis were observed both in broilers inoculated intraperitoneally with an ORT isolate alone and in those co-infected with ORT and H9N2 virus isolates. Specifically, the survival rate was 30%, 20%, 70%, 50% and 90% in birds inoculated with ORT+H9N2 virus, ORT followed by H9N2 virus, H9N2 virus followed by ORT, and ORT or H9N2 virus alone, respectively.

Conclusions

The results of this study suggest that ORT infections of domestic poultry have been occurring frequently in China. ORT infection can induce higher economic losses and mortality if H9N2 AIV is also present. Although the isolation of ORT and H9N2 virus has been reported previously, there have been no reported co-infections of poultry with these two pathogens. This is the first report of co-infection of broilers with ORT and H9N2 virus, and this co-infection is probably associated with the outbreak of broiler airsacculitis in China, which has caused extensive economic losses.     

Daytime birth of a baby crested black macaque (Macaca nigra) in the wild

In mammals, which give birth to more or less dependent offspring, parturition usually takes place during the animals' resting period and in a secure environment. We report here the first direct and documented observation of a daytime birth of a wild baby crested black macaque, Macaca nigra, in the Tangkoko Batuangus Nature Reserve, North Sulawesi, Indonesia. We further consider the parturition time as a female reproductive strategy in a broader evolutionary framework.     

Collection and fertilization potential of sperm from the Sulawesi crested black macaque (Macaca nigra)

In this study, semen was obtained by rectal probe electrostimulation (RPE) from the Sulawesi crested black macaque (Macaca nigra). Three experimental series were conducted. First, semen was collected from four animals anesthetized with either tiletamine-zolazepam (Telazol®) or ket-amine-HCl (Vetalar®) (five collections from each animal with each drug). Because of greater muscle relaxation and analgesia, we found tiletaminezolazepam to be an attractive alternative to ketamine-HCl as an anesthetic agent for RPE in M. nigra. Second, semen was collected from another four animals at stimulation frequencies of either 30 Hz or 60 Hz (five collections from each animal at each frequency). There were no significant differences in sperm number, in percentage of sperm with progressive motility, in the current required for sample recovery between tiletamine-zolazepam or ketamine-HCl anesthesia, or between a 30 Hz or 60 Hz stimulation frequency. Third, to check for retrograde sperm loss, the bladders of four animals were emptied, flushed with sterile saline, and then infused with TALP-Hepes medium. After RPE, sperm numbers in the bladder were compared with those in the ejaculate. Although sperm were recovered from the bladder [1.6 (± 0.9) × 10⁶] (mean ± SEM), the numbers were significantly less (P < 0.05) than those in the ejaculate [49 (± 18) × 10⁶]. The percentage of sperm with normal morphology in these samples was high (96.8 ± 1.0%). The average sperm number in the 84 samples collected for this study was 33.8 (± 4.1) × 10⁶. In preliminary experiments, we found that M. nigra sperm will fertilize rhesus monkey oocytes (Macaca mulatta) in vitro. © 1992 Wiley-Liss, Inc.     

Temporary hindlimb paresis following dystocia due to foetal macrosomia in a Celebes crested macaque (Macaca nigra)

A multiparous Celebes crested macaque presented with dystocia due to foetal macrosomia, causing foetal mortality and hindlimb paresis. After emergency caesarean section, recovery of motor function took 1 month before hindlimbs were weight bearing and 2 months before re‐integration with the troop.     

Effects of physical and chemical restraint on intravenous glucose tolerance test in crested black macaques (Macaca nigra)

The effects of physical and chemical restraint on glucose clearance and insulin secretion were evaluated during intravenous glucose tolerance testing in Macaca nigra. Conscious monkeys placed in plexiglas cylindrical restraining devices (CRD) appeared relaxed, but glucose clearance and insulin secretion were impaired. A combination of midazolam with ketamine, compared to ketamine alone, did not cause detectable changes in the intravenous glucose tolerance tests; midazolam also reduced adverse reactions to ketamine and extended the duration of anesthesia. The cylindrical restraining device can be convenient for examining monkeys, but it is limited by its adverse affects on metabolic and hormonal measurements in intravenous glucose-tolerance tests. Chemical restraint using ketamine with midazolam was more effective than ketamine alone.     

Activity patterns in a captive group of Celebes black apes (Macaca nigra)

Both time of day and weather significantly influenced the behavioral activity profile of a captive group of Celebes black apes. There were significant differences when their activity profile was compared to those of stumptail macaques, pigtail macaques, sooty mangabeys and geladas observed under similar conditions. There were, nonetheless several remarkable consistencies, especially among taxonomically related forms. Significant sex differences were also noted for grooming, social interaction rates, self-directed activity, agonistic and sexual behavior. Scores were consistent with data on a second group of black apes and previously reported unusual behavioral categories were confirmed.     

Control of Shigella flexneri in Celebes black macaques (Macaca nigra)

Stool specimens collected systematically from a group of Celebes black macaques (Macaca nigra) with a high incidence of diarrhea were examined microbiologically. Numerous isolates of Shigella flexneri, Campylobacter jejuni and pathogenic Escherichia coli were recovered. Previous parasitology reports had revealed that the majority of the animals had Balantidium coli. Subsequently, the group was treated with trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, erythromycin and tetracycline. After treatment, Shigella flexneri was not detected in the stool of any animal for 1 year, and the clinical condition of the group was improved. Reduced recovery rates were obtained with other enteric pathogens.     

Population densities of Sulawesi crested black macaques (Macaca nigra) on Bacan and Sulawesi,Indonesia: Effects of habitat disturbance and hunting

Population surveys of Sulawesi crested black macaques (Macaca nigra) were conducted on the Indonesian islands of Sulawesi and Bacan in 1992–1994 to assess the status of natural populations and determine habitat and anthropogenic factors affecting their population densities. We surveyed five sites for primates, including undisturbed and disturbed habitats. Data were collected on habitat structure and composition at two undisturbed and one disturbed forest site in which the primates were surveyed. The highest density of macaques was found in primary forest at Gunung Sibela Nature Reserve on Bacan (170.3 individuals/km²). Population density in logged forest on Bacan was high but significantly less than primary forest (133.4 individuals/km²). The high density of crested black macaques in primary forest on Bacan is best explained by the high carrying capacity found in primary forest. The lower food quantity and quality of food resources found in logged forest correlated with lower primate densities compared to primary forest. However, the large population of macaques in logged forest demonstrates the conservation value of such forest. Densities on Sulawesi at Tangkoko-Batuangas-DuaSudara Nature Reserve (TBDS) showed a continuing decline since earlier surveys. Primate densities were highest near the protected center of Tangkoko Reserve (66.7 individuals/km²). The peripheral areas of Batuangas and DuaSudara, even though adjacent and continuous, showed lower population densities of 46.4 and 23.5 individuals/km², respectively. The best explanation for the continued decline of Macaca nigra populations at TBDS is hunting. Unless conservation measures are implemented immediately, M. nigra on Sulawesi risks extinction in the near future. Am. J. Primatol. 44:89–106, 1998. © 1998 Wiley-Liss, Inc.     

Two-nucleotide codon change in a hemoglobin polymorphism of the Celebes black ape (Macaca nigra)

A hemoglobin polymorphism involving variant -chains was demonstrated in the Celebes black ape, Macaca nigra. Fingerprinting and amino acid analysis of the tryptic peptides from the two chain types have shown that they differ by a single amino acid substitution, between lysine and aspartic acid, which requires a two-nucleotide change in the corresponding codon. Another substitution in the same codon is found as a species difference between the black ape -chain and that of other macaques.     

Pneumatocele in a pig-tailed macaque (Macaca nemestrina)

Radiographic examination of a pig-tailed macaque (Macaca nemestrina) with pneumonia revealed a large pneumatocele. The pneumatocele, a thin-walled, partially fluid filled radiolucent area, occupied approximately one-third of the left thorax. Rapid resolution of the pneumatocele accompanied antimicrobial treatment of the pneumonia and coincided with clinical improvement. Severe pulmonary acariasis was found at postmortem 15 months later.     

Latex sensitivity in a macaque (Macaca mulatta)

BACKGROUND AND HISTORY: An adult Macaca mulatta was examined because of a history of multiple episodes of conjunctivitis and an acute, pruritic, dermatitic eruption that affected the axillary and inguinal regions, forearms, thorax, and neck. METHODS AND RESULTS: Results of corneal staining, examination of skin scrapings and feces, fungal culture, CBC, and a thyroid profile (thyroxine/triiodothyronine concentrations) were negative or normal, with the exception of eosinophilia (1,040/mm3). Examination of a punch biopsy specimen of the skin indicated chronic, nonsuppurative eosinophilic dermatitis. Skin patch testing against 25 contact allergens was negative for a delayed-type hypersensitivity reaction. Allergen-specific IgE testing, using six monkey chow additives, also yielded negative results, but testing against latex revealed a strong positive result (0.74 KU/L) consistent with a latex allergy. A skin prick test performed by use of a latex supernatant revealed significant inflammation at the latex site at 72 h and one week. Vinyl gloves were substituted for latex gloves, and that resulted in a marked decrease in erythema, pruritus, and lichenification with no flares of dermatitis for four years. Repeat skin biopsy fourteen weeks after the original biopsy revealed normal epidermis; however, mild chronic active nonsuppurative, perifolliculitis persisted. CONCLUSION: Latex can induce allergic dermatitis in nonhuman primates and should be included in the differen tial diagnosis for atopic dermatitis.     

Osteochondromatosis in a Rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta)

A 5-y-old, male, rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta) presented with a prominent mass slightly anteriomedial to the right stifle. On exam, multiple radiopaque masses were identified protruding from the mid- and distal femur. Lateral and anteroposterior radiographs of the right stifle region revealed multiple exophytic masses arising from the femur, with mild bony reaction of the proximal tibia. Histologic examination of biopsy tissue revealed woven and lamellar bone with granulation tissue and skeletal muscle. Because the macaque was exhibiting no lameness or signs of pain, we decided to monitor the progression of the masses. Minimal change was noted during the time prior to study termination at 6.5 y of age. Necropsy revealed that the bony masses were cartilage-capped lesions arising near the growth plate of the distal femur and midshaft of the femur and tibia. Histologic examination revealed chondro-osseous exophytic growths that blended imperceptibly with the cortex and spongiosa of the femur, consistent with a final diagnosis of multiple osteochondromas.     

Mixed cryoglobulinaemia in a rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta)

We report cryoglobulinaemia (CG) in a rhesus macaque whose serum sample was gel‐like at <37°C and resolubilised upon warming. Mixed CG was diagnosed using serum protein electrophoresis and serum immunofixation electrophoresis. Renal damage and arthrophyma were observed during necropsy. This is the first report of CG in a non‐human primate.     

Abdominal cysticercosis in a rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta)

A mid-abdominal mass was discovered during routine physical examination of a rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta). Further diagnostics and exploratory laparotomy were performed, revealing a fluid-filled cyst attached to the caudal free margin of the greater omentum. Formation and pulsatile movement of white-colored circumferential bands within the wall of the cyst were observed during surgery. The cyst was removed and later was dissected. The discovery of a single invaginated scolex identified the cyst as a cysticercus. The location and characteristics of the cysticercus were consistent with the larval form of Taenia hydatigena.