PESQUISA VETERINÁRIA BRASILEIRA

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Pereira G.G., Petrus L.C., Santos A.L.F., Yamaki F.L. & Larsson M.H.M.A. 2009. Evaluation of left ventricular diastolic echocardiographic parameters in healthy dogs by pulsed-wave Doppler. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(4):291-294. Departamento de Clínica Médica, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, São Paulo, SP 05508-900, Brazil. E-mail: ggpereira2002@yahoo.com.br Left ventricular diastolic dysfunction plays an important role on heart failure progression. In order to obtain additional reference values of left ventricular diastolic parameters and investigate influence of common variables, peak E wave (peak E), peak A wave (peak A), E/A ratio (E/A), E wave deceleration time (EDT) and isovolumic relaxation time (IRVT) were studied in 40 clinically healthy dogs, by pulsed wave Doppler. The following values were obtained: peak E = 0.747 ± 0.117 m/s, peak A = 0.487 ± 0.062 m/s, E/A = 1.533 ± 0.198, EDT = 88.7 ± 9.2 ms and IRVT = 0.080 ± 0.009 s. Some parameters were influenced by heart rate (peak E, peak A and IRVT), by age (peak A and E/A) and by body weight (TRIV). Gender influence was absent. Values obtained can be used as reference for canine specimens but its interpretation should consider on the influence of related variables.

• Diastole pulsed-wave Doppler Dogs Left ventricle

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Pereira G.G., Petrus L.C., Santos A.L.F., Yamaki F.L. & Larsson M.H.M.A. 2009. Evaluation of left ventricular diastolic echocardiographic parameters in healthy dogs by pulsed-wave Doppler. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(4):291-294. Departamento de Clínica Médica, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, São Paulo, SP 05508-900, Brazil. E-mail: ggpereira2002@yahoo.com.br Left ventricular diastolic dysfunction plays an important role on heart failure progression. In order to obtain additional reference values of left ventricular diastolic parameters and investigate influence of common variables, peak E wave (peak E), peak A wave (peak A), E/A ratio (E/A), E wave deceleration time (EDT) and isovolumic relaxation time (IRVT) were studied in 40 clinically healthy dogs, by pulsed wave Doppler. The following values were obtained: peak E = 0.747 ± 0.117 m/s, peak A = 0.487 ± 0.062 m/s, E/A = 1.533 ± 0.198, EDT = 88.7 ± 9.2 ms and IRVT = 0.080 ± 0.009 s. Some parameters were influenced by heart rate (peak E, peak A and IRVT), by age (peak A and E/A) and by body weight (TRIV). Gender influence was absent. Values obtained can be used as reference for canine specimens but its interpretation should consider on the influence of related variables.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Silva C.A.O., Perri S.H.V., Koivisto M.B., Silva A.M., Carvalho R.G. & Monteiro C.M.R. 2009. [Histological and morphometric evaluation of the testes of cats (Felis catus).] Aspectos histológicos e morfométricos dos testículos de gatos domésticos (Felis catus). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(4):312-316. Curso de Medicina Veterinária, Faculdade de Odontologia, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Rua Clóvis Pestana 793, Araçatuba, SP 16050-680, Brazil. E-mail: monteiro@fmva.unesp.br This paper deals with a comparative histologic and morphometric study of the testes of domestic cats distributed into two groups: Group 1, cats until 1 year of age, and Group 2, cats over 1 year. It was found that: (1) at 4 months of age the seminiferous tubules were poorly developed, appeared as seminiferous cords without lumen, lined by a low epithelium, and showed undifferentiated Sertoli cells and scarce interstitial tissue; (2) at 5 months the seminiferous tubules began to differentiate with increase in tubular diameter and lumen, the other tubular structures remaining similar to those previous referred; (3) at 6 and 7 months of age spermatocytogenesis began to appear, Leydig cells were large, polyhedral in shape, with vacuolated cytoplasm and clear nuclei, resting on a sparse interstitial tissue with few blood vessels; (4) 1-year-old cats showed testicular histological features of an adult animal, had seminiferous tubules of large diameter and high seminiferous epithelium with small lumen, and Leydig cells of different sizes, with polyhedral shape, vacuolated cytoplasm, clear nuclei and evident nucleoli resting in a sparse interstitial tissue with some blood vessels; (5) in Group 1 the average diameter of the seminiferous tubules was 160.58µm, and 185.94µm in Group 2; (6) the height of the seminiferous epithelium was 49.51µm for Group 1 and 63.29µm for Group 2; (7) the largest measures of the analyzed parameters were found in animals of Group 2, with functional reproductive organs.

• Histology morphometry testes cats

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Silva C.A.O., Perri S.H.V., Koivisto M.B., Silva A.M., Carvalho R.G. & Monteiro C.M.R. 2009. [Histological and morphometric evaluation of the testes of cats (Felis catus).] Aspectos histológicos e morfométricos dos testículos de gatos domésticos (Felis catus). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(4):312-316. Curso de Medicina Veterinária, Faculdade de Odontologia, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Rua Clóvis Pestana 793, Araçatuba, SP 16050-680, Brazil. E-mail: monteiro@fmva.unesp.br This paper deals with a comparative histologic and morphometric study of the testes of domestic cats distributed into two groups: Group 1, cats until 1 year of age, and Group 2, cats over 1 year. It was found that: (1) at 4 months of age the seminiferous tubules were poorly developed, appeared as seminiferous cords without lumen, lined by a low epithelium, and showed undifferentiated Sertoli cells and scarce interstitial tissue; (2) at 5 months the seminiferous tubules began to differentiate with increase in tubular diameter and lumen, the other tubular structures remaining similar to those previous referred; (3) at 6 and 7 months of age spermatocytogenesis began to appear, Leydig cells were large, polyhedral in shape, with vacuolated cytoplasm and clear nuclei, resting on a sparse interstitial tissue with few blood vessels; (4) 1-year-old cats showed testicular histological features of an adult animal, had seminiferous tubules of large diameter and high seminiferous epithelium with small lumen, and Leydig cells of different sizes, with polyhedral shape, vacuolated cytoplasm, clear nuclei and evident nucleoli resting in a sparse interstitial tissue with some blood vessels; (5) in Group 1 the average diameter of the seminiferous tubules was 160.58µm, and 185.94µm in Group 2; (6) the height of the seminiferous epithelium was 49.51µm for Group 1 and 63.29µm for Group 2; (7) the largest measures of the analyzed parameters were found in animals of Group 2, with functional reproductive organs.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Santos T.C., Ferrari C.C., Menconi A., Maia M.O., Bombonato P.P. & Pereira C.C.H. 2009. [Veins from hepatic portal vein system in domestic geese.] Veias do sistema porta-hepático em gansos domésticos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(4):327-332. Departamento de Cirurgia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, Cidade Universitária, São Paulo, SP 05508-270, Brazil. E-mail: bombonat@usp.br The intraparenchymal distribution of the hepatic portal veins in 30 domestic geese were studied. Stained Neoprene latex was injected into the isquiatic vessels, and the animals were fixed in 10% formaldehyde by immersion and intramuscular injection. The liver of geese was composed of a large right and a smaller left hepatic lobe, connected by a parenchyma bridge. The right hepatic lobe had vessels exclusively from the hepatic portal system composed by intraparenchymal distribution of the right hepatic portal vein, while the vessels of the left hepatic lobe came from the right hepatic portal vein and from small left hepatic portal veins. The right hepatic portal vein emitted the right caudal branch, which emitted a small right caudolateral branch and a large right caudomedial branch. Cranially this vein emitted right cranial and right lateral branches. The tranverse portion of the right hepatic portal vein crossed to the left hepatic lobe, emitting 1 to 6 small cranial and caudal branches to the medial area of the liver. In the left hepatic lobe, the left branch from the right hepatic vein emitted the left cranial, left lateral and left median branches. One to six left hepatic portal veins were identified arising from the left branch or from the transverse portion of the right hepatic portal vein. These vessels arose from the gizzard and pro-ventricle. In 40% of geese one proper hepatic portal vein originated from venous vessels of the gizzard and was distributed into the caudal extremity of the left hepatic isolated lobe.

• Morphology hepatic portal vein liver geese

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Santos T.C., Ferrari C.C., Menconi A., Maia M.O., Bombonato P.P. & Pereira C.C.H. 2009. [Veins from hepatic portal vein system in domestic geese.] Veias do sistema porta-hepático em gansos domésticos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(4):327-332. Departamento de Cirurgia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, Cidade Universitária, São Paulo, SP 05508-270, Brazil. E-mail: bombonat@usp.br The intraparenchymal distribution of the hepatic portal veins in 30 domestic geese were studied. Stained Neoprene latex was injected into the isquiatic vessels, and the animals were fixed in 10% formaldehyde by immersion and intramuscular injection. The liver of geese was composed of a large right and a smaller left hepatic lobe, connected by a parenchyma bridge. The right hepatic lobe had vessels exclusively from the hepatic portal system composed by intraparenchymal distribution of the right hepatic portal vein, while the vessels of the left hepatic lobe came from the right hepatic portal vein and from small left hepatic portal veins. The right hepatic portal vein emitted the right caudal branch, which emitted a small right caudolateral branch and a large right caudomedial branch. Cranially this vein emitted right cranial and right lateral branches. The tranverse portion of the right hepatic portal vein crossed to the left hepatic lobe, emitting 1 to 6 small cranial and caudal branches to the medial area of the liver. In the left hepatic lobe, the left branch from the right hepatic vein emitted the left cranial, left lateral and left median branches. One to six left hepatic portal veins were identified arising from the left branch or from the transverse portion of the right hepatic portal vein. These vessels arose from the gizzard and pro-ventricle. In 40% of geese one proper hepatic portal vein originated from venous vessels of the gizzard and was distributed into the caudal extremity of the left hepatic isolated lobe.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Moraes J.M., Brito L.A.B., Moura V.M.B.D., Ribeiro C.S., Guimarães V.Y., Andrade D.F., Lobo J.R. & Fioravanti M.C.S. 2009. [Immunophenotyping and quantitative evaluation of circulating lymphocytes of cattle of the Curraleiro breed.] Imunofenotipagem e avaliação quantitativa de linfócitos circulantes de bovinos da raça Curraleiro. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(4):339-344. Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Campus Samambaia, Cx. Postal 131, Goiânia, GO 74001-970, Brazil. E-mail: mmjulia_vet@yahoo.com.br The aim of this study was to establish an immunological profile by marking and quantification of T and B lymphocytes in Curraleiro breed by immunocytochemistry. A total of 116 cattle was used, males and females of different ages, from two farms situated in the Goiás State, Brazil. The animals were allotted into groups according to age, sex and origin. Blood samples were collected and processed in accordance with immunocytochemistry standard technique using lymphoid markers species-specific, as anti-CD3 (MM1A - BoCD3) and anti-LB (LCTB16A-clone B-B14), for T and B lymphocyte counting, respectively. The data were submitted to descriptive statistics, and to Kruskall Wallis and Mann-Whitney tests. The results showed decreased levels of leukocytes, lymphocytes, T lymphocytes and B lymphocytes along the age advance. Absolute values of leukocytes, lymphocytes and T lymphocytes were higher in males than females. None of the evaluated parameters were affected by differences of the management carried out at the two farms.

• Immunocytochemistry CD3 T lymphocytes B lymphocytes immunological profile

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Moraes J.M., Brito L.A.B., Moura V.M.B.D., Ribeiro C.S., Guimarães V.Y., Andrade D.F., Lobo J.R. & Fioravanti M.C.S. 2009. [Immunophenotyping and quantitative evaluation of circulating lymphocytes of cattle of the Curraleiro breed.] Imunofenotipagem e avaliação quantitativa de linfócitos circulantes de bovinos da raça Curraleiro. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(4):339-344. Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Campus Samambaia, Cx. Postal 131, Goiânia, GO 74001-970, Brazil. E-mail: mmjulia_vet@yahoo.com.br The aim of this study was to establish an immunological profile by marking and quantification of T and B lymphocytes in Curraleiro breed by immunocytochemistry. A total of 116 cattle was used, males and females of different ages, from two farms situated in the Goiás State, Brazil. The animals were allotted into groups according to age, sex and origin. Blood samples were collected and processed in accordance with immunocytochemistry standard technique using lymphoid markers species-specific, as anti-CD3 (MM1A - BoCD3) and anti-LB (LCTB16A-clone B-B14), for T and B lymphocyte counting, respectively. The data were submitted to descriptive statistics, and to Kruskall Wallis and Mann-Whitney tests. The results showed decreased levels of leukocytes, lymphocytes, T lymphocytes and B lymphocytes along the age advance. Absolute values of leukocytes, lymphocytes and T lymphocytes were higher in males than females. None of the evaluated parameters were affected by differences of the management carried out at the two farms.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Néspoli P.B, Gheller V.A., Mahecha G.A.B., Godoy de Araújo D.K., Gilberto L. Macedo G.L.J. & Bordin A.I. 2009. [Morphologic aspects of hepatic ultrasonography in sheep.] Aspectos morfológicos da ultra-sonografia hepática de ovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(4):333-338. Departamento de Clínica Médica Veterinária, Faculdade Agronomia e Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso, Av. Fernando Corrêa da Costa s/n, Coxipó, Cuiabá, MT 78060-900, Brazil. E-mail: nespoli@ufmt.br The ultrasonography (US) is a complementary technique of choice for the diagnostic of hepatic diseases in many domestics’ species. In sheep however there are few reports about ultrasonography in hepatic diseases and there is not precise definition about the anatomic standards of normal liver limits in ultrasonographic examination. In this study 58 Santa Inês sheep breed were used and divided in 3 groups: n1=8 males, n2=10 not pregnant females and n3=40 pregnant females. The animals were scanned from the 12º to 8º intercostal spaces (EI) to observe the localization of the vena cava caudal (VC), gallbladder (VB) and to measure the liver thickness above the VC and vena portae VP under the 11º and 10º EI. The liver was examined on satisfactory way from the 12º till the 8º EI. Both the VC and the VP where observed from the 12º to 9º EI, however the VC could not be observed in 11 animals, 10 of them were over 50 kg. Between the two female groups the VC and VP where observed most frequently from the 11º to 10º EI and in all males examined from the 12º to 10º EI. The location of the gallbladder varies between the 10º to the 8º EI, with bigger incidence between the 9º and the 8º EI in pregnant and no pregnant females groups and underneath the 9º EI on the male group. Comparatively, the ecogenicity of the liver parenchyma was more intense than kidney cortex. There was a significant correlation between liver’s weight and hepatic thikness above the vena portae on the 11º and 10º EI on the pregnant females group. The US supplied to important information about the topography and echogenicity of the liver and showed to be a useful tool to esteem the liver’s weight.

• Sheep ultrasonography liver Vena cava caudalis Vena portae gall bladder

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Néspoli P.B, Gheller V.A., Mahecha G.A.B., Godoy de Araújo D.K., Gilberto L. Macedo G.L.J. & Bordin A.I. 2009. [Morphologic aspects of hepatic ultrasonography in sheep.] Aspectos morfológicos da ultra-sonografia hepática de ovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(4):333-338. Departamento de Clínica Médica Veterinária, Faculdade Agronomia e Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso, Av. Fernando Corrêa da Costa s/n, Coxipó, Cuiabá, MT 78060-900, Brazil. E-mail: nespoli@ufmt.br The ultrasonography (US) is a complementary technique of choice for the diagnostic of hepatic diseases in many domestics’ species. In sheep however there are few reports about ultrasonography in hepatic diseases and there is not precise definition about the anatomic standards of normal liver limits in ultrasonographic examination. In this study 58 Santa Inês sheep breed were used and divided in 3 groups: n1=8 males, n2=10 not pregnant females and n3=40 pregnant females. The animals were scanned from the 12º to 8º intercostal spaces (EI) to observe the localization of the vena cava caudal (VC), gallbladder (VB) and to measure the liver thickness above the VC and vena portae VP under the 11º and 10º EI. The liver was examined on satisfactory way from the 12º till the 8º EI. Both the VC and the VP where observed from the 12º to 9º EI, however the VC could not be observed in 11 animals, 10 of them were over 50 kg. Between the two female groups the VC and VP where observed most frequently from the 11º to 10º EI and in all males examined from the 12º to 10º EI. The location of the gallbladder varies between the 10º to the 8º EI, with bigger incidence between the 9º and the 8º EI in pregnant and no pregnant females groups and underneath the 9º EI on the male group. Comparatively, the ecogenicity of the liver parenchyma was more intense than kidney cortex. There was a significant correlation between liver’s weight and hepatic thikness above the vena portae on the 11º and 10º EI on the pregnant females group. The US supplied to important information about the topography and echogenicity of the liver and showed to be a useful tool to esteem the liver’s weight.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Grecco F.B., Schild A.L., Soares M.P., Raffi M.B., Sallis E.S.V. & Damé M.C. 2009. [Organophosphate poisoning in buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) in southern Brazil.] Intoxicação por organofosforados em búfalos (Bubalus bubalis) no Rio Grande do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(3):211-214. Laboratório Regional de Diagnóstico, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Campus Universitário s/n, Pelotas, RS 96010-900, Brazil. E-mail: alschild@terra.com.br This paper describes organophosphate (ORF) poisoning in a herd of water buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) in southern Brazil, which were treated with a single dose of 12mg/kg body weight of Expertan® pour-on (chlorpyriphos) to control ectoparasites. Clinical signs, observed 7-45 days after exposure, were diarrhea, hypersalivation, ataxia, muscular tremors, weakness of pelvic limbs, paresis and flaccid paralysis and lateral recumbence. Out of 267 buffaloes 61 died. Necropsy of three animals that died 24-72 hours after onset of clinical signs, revealed congestion and serosal hemorrhages scattered along the bowel, emphysema and edema of the lungs. No significant histopathological changes were found. Residues of chlorpyriphos were detected in liver, kidneys and nervous system of the one necropsied buffalo. Despite the absence of histological lesions in the central and peripheral nervous system, the epidemiological, clinical, gross and toxicological findings suggest delayed neurotoxicity induced by organophosphates.

• Diseases of water buffaloes poisoning organophosphate toxicosis

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Grecco F.B., Schild A.L., Soares M.P., Raffi M.B., Sallis E.S.V. & Damé M.C. 2009. [Organophosphate poisoning in buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) in southern Brazil.] Intoxicação por organofosforados em búfalos (Bubalus bubalis) no Rio Grande do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(3):211-214. Laboratório Regional de Diagnóstico, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Campus Universitário s/n, Pelotas, RS 96010-900, Brazil. E-mail: alschild@terra.com.br This paper describes organophosphate (ORF) poisoning in a herd of water buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) in southern Brazil, which were treated with a single dose of 12mg/kg body weight of Expertan® pour-on (chlorpyriphos) to control ectoparasites. Clinical signs, observed 7-45 days after exposure, were diarrhea, hypersalivation, ataxia, muscular tremors, weakness of pelvic limbs, paresis and flaccid paralysis and lateral recumbence. Out of 267 buffaloes 61 died. Necropsy of three animals that died 24-72 hours after onset of clinical signs, revealed congestion and serosal hemorrhages scattered along the bowel, emphysema and edema of the lungs. No significant histopathological changes were found. Residues of chlorpyriphos were detected in liver, kidneys and nervous system of the one necropsied buffalo. Despite the absence of histological lesions in the central and peripheral nervous system, the epidemiological, clinical, gross and toxicological findings suggest delayed neurotoxicity induced by organophosphates.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Silva-Zacarias F.G., Spohr K.A.H., Lima B.A.C., Dias J.A., Müller E.E., Ferreira Neto J.S., Turilli C. & Freitas J.C. 2009. [Prevalence of antibodies against Chlamydophila spp. in herds with bovine abortion of Paraná state, Brazil.] Prevalência de anticorpos anti-Chlamydophila spp. em propriedades rurais com histórico de aborto bovino no estado do Paraná. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(3):215-219. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Rodovia Celso Garcia Cid 380, Cx. Postal 6001, Londrina, PR 86051-990, Brazil. E-mail: freitasj@uel.br Chlamydophila abortus is a recognized cause of bovine epizootic abortion. Abortion, premature birth and weak lamb/calf, stillbirth and repeat breeding in irregular intervals are the most frequent disease manifestations. The complement fixation test is the recommended by the World Organization of Animal Health (OIE) for Chlamydophila spp. serologic diagnosis. The aim of this study was estimate the prevalence of antibodies against Chlamydophila spp. in cattle herds with abortion, selected inside the sampling design of National Program of Control and Erradication of Brucellosis in Paraná state. Serum samples of 3,102 cows (age ³ 24 months) from 373 herds were analyzed by complement fixation test. Totally, 44 (1.42%) animal were positive with titers ³ 32. The seroprevalence of Chlamydophila spp. in the herds was 8.82% (6.15%-12.17%). Four variables were associated with seroprevalence for Chlamydophila spp. in the final model of logistic regression: confined or semi-confined breeding (OR=3.339, P=0.004), farms with less than 35 cows (OR=3.339, P=0.017), abortion in the pasture (OR=2.372, P=0.037) and pasture rent (OR=3.398, P=0.006) were risk factors for Chlamydophila spp. This bacterium infected a small number of cattle from herds with abortion in Paraná state. Chlamydophila spp impact as abortion cause is reduced in this state.

• Chlamydophila abortus bovine epizootic abortion serology bacteria

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Silva-Zacarias F.G., Spohr K.A.H., Lima B.A.C., Dias J.A., Müller E.E., Ferreira Neto J.S., Turilli C. & Freitas J.C. 2009. [Prevalence of antibodies against Chlamydophila spp. in herds with bovine abortion of Paraná state, Brazil.] Prevalência de anticorpos anti-Chlamydophila spp. em propriedades rurais com histórico de aborto bovino no estado do Paraná. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(3):215-219. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Rodovia Celso Garcia Cid 380, Cx. Postal 6001, Londrina, PR 86051-990, Brazil. E-mail: freitasj@uel.br Chlamydophila abortus is a recognized cause of bovine epizootic abortion. Abortion, premature birth and weak lamb/calf, stillbirth and repeat breeding in irregular intervals are the most frequent disease manifestations. The complement fixation test is the recommended by the World Organization of Animal Health (OIE) for Chlamydophila spp. serologic diagnosis. The aim of this study was estimate the prevalence of antibodies against Chlamydophila spp. in cattle herds with abortion, selected inside the sampling design of National Program of Control and Erradication of Brucellosis in Paraná state. Serum samples of 3,102 cows (age ³ 24 months) from 373 herds were analyzed by complement fixation test. Totally, 44 (1.42%) animal were positive with titers ³ 32. The seroprevalence of Chlamydophila spp. in the herds was 8.82% (6.15%-12.17%). Four variables were associated with seroprevalence for Chlamydophila spp. in the final model of logistic regression: confined or semi-confined breeding (OR=3.339, P=0.004), farms with less than 35 cows (OR=3.339, P=0.017), abortion in the pasture (OR=2.372, P=0.037) and pasture rent (OR=3.398, P=0.006) were risk factors for Chlamydophila spp. This bacterium infected a small number of cattle from herds with abortion in Paraná state. Chlamydophila spp impact as abortion cause is reduced in this state.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Fontana P.A., Zanuzzi C.N., Barbeito C.G., Gimeno E.J. & Portiansky E.L. 2009. Thymic atrophy in cattle poisoned with Solanum glaucophyllum. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(3):266-274. Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, Calle 60 y 118, 1900 La Plata, Argentina. E-mail: elporti@fcv.unlp.edu.ar Solanum glaucophyllum (Sg) [= S. malacoxylon] is a calcinogenic plant inducing “Enzootic Calcinosis” in cattle. The 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3, its main toxic principle, regulates bone and calcium metabolism and also exerts immunomodulatory effects. Thymocyte precursors from bone marrow-derived progenitor cells differentiate into mature T-cells. Differentiation of most T lymphocytes is characterized not only by the variable expression of CD4/CD8 receptor molecules and increased surface density of the T cell antigen receptor, but also by changes in the glycosylation pattern of cell surface glycolipids or glycoproteins. Thymocytes exert a feedback influence on thymic non-lymphoid cells. Sg-induced modifications on cattle thymus T-lymphocytes and on non-lymphoid cells were analysed. Heifers were divided into 5 groups (control, intoxicated with Sg during 15, 30 or 60 days, and probably recovered group). Histochemical, immunohistochemical, lectinhistochemical and morphometric techniques were used to characterize different cell populations of the experimental heifers. Sg-poisoned heifers showed a progressive cortical atrophy that was characterized using the peanut agglutinin (PNA) lectin that recognizes immature thymocytes. These animals also increased the amount of non-lymphoid cells per unit area detected with the Picrosirius technique, WGA and DBA lectins, and pancytokeratin and S-100 antibodies. The thymus atrophy found in intoxicated animals resembled that of the physiological aging process. A reversal effect on these changes was observed after suppression of the intoxication. These findings suggest that Sg-intoxication induces either directly, through the 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 itself, or indirectly through the hypercalcemia, the observed alteration of the thymus.

• Calcinosis; calcitriol cattle immunohistochemistry lectinhistochemistry plant poisoning Solanum glaucophyllum S. malacoxylon thymus gland

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Fontana P.A., Zanuzzi C.N., Barbeito C.G., Gimeno E.J. & Portiansky E.L. 2009. Thymic atrophy in cattle poisoned with Solanum glaucophyllum. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(3):266-274. Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, Calle 60 y 118, 1900 La Plata, Argentina. E-mail: elporti@fcv.unlp.edu.ar Solanum glaucophyllum (Sg) [= S. malacoxylon] is a calcinogenic plant inducing “Enzootic Calcinosis” in cattle. The 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3, its main toxic principle, regulates bone and calcium metabolism and also exerts immunomodulatory effects. Thymocyte precursors from bone marrow-derived progenitor cells differentiate into mature T-cells. Differentiation of most T lymphocytes is characterized not only by the variable expression of CD4/CD8 receptor molecules and increased surface density of the T cell antigen receptor, but also by changes in the glycosylation pattern of cell surface glycolipids or glycoproteins. Thymocytes exert a feedback influence on thymic non-lymphoid cells. Sg-induced modifications on cattle thymus T-lymphocytes and on non-lymphoid cells were analysed. Heifers were divided into 5 groups (control, intoxicated with Sg during 15, 30 or 60 days, and probably recovered group). Histochemical, immunohistochemical, lectinhistochemical and morphometric techniques were used to characterize different cell populations of the experimental heifers. Sg-poisoned heifers showed a progressive cortical atrophy that was characterized using the peanut agglutinin (PNA) lectin that recognizes immature thymocytes. These animals also increased the amount of non-lymphoid cells per unit area detected with the Picrosirius technique, WGA and DBA lectins, and pancytokeratin and S-100 antibodies. The thymus atrophy found in intoxicated animals resembled that of the physiological aging process. A reversal effect on these changes was observed after suppression of the intoxication. These findings suggest that Sg-intoxication induces either directly, through the 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 itself, or indirectly through the hypercalcemia, the observed alteration of the thymus.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Alves F.R., Feitosa M.L.T., Gatti A., Fadel L., Unruh S.M., Ambrósio C.E., Sterman F.A., Pinto A.C.B.C.F. & Miglino M.A. 2009. [Radiologic images of the thoracic cavity of Golden Retriever dogs affected by muscular dystrophy.] Imagem radiográfica da cavidade torácica de cães Golden Retriever acometidos pela Distrofia Muscular. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(2):99-104. Departamento de Cirurgia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, São Paulo, SP 05508-270, Brazil. E-mail: flaviovet@usp.br Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) is a genetic disorder with clinical signs of muscular weaknesses and progressive atrophy. Golden Retriever dogs show similar genotypic and phenotypic characteristics to Human Muscular Dystrophy and are considered a proper animal model for DMD studies. Latero-lateral and dorso-ventral thoracic radiographies were obtained from 10 Golden Retriever dogs affected by muscular dystrophy, to investigate possible radiographic alterations. Thorax radiographic examination revealed (a) interstitial and alveolar pattern, (b) initial phases of pneumonia and pulmonary edema, (c) cardiomegaly as a principal alteration in the thoracic cavity, (d) megaesophagus displacing the trachea and heart silhouette, and (e) cranial protrusion of the diaphragm lining into the thorax with development of a hiatus hernia displacing the stomach to the caudal mediastinum. Postmortem examination showed pleural effusion, pulmonary emphysema, degenerative and metaplasic processes in the diaphragm and intercostal muscles. Radiographic examination was considered essential for the diagnosis of cardiac and respiratory disease in Golden Retriever dogs affected by muscular dystrophy, and to identify the primary pulmonary process and to provide the establishment of suitable therapeutic treatment, with a reserved prognosis in advanced stage of the disease.

• Muscular dystrophy Duchenne Golden Retriever dog radiology

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Alves F.R., Feitosa M.L.T., Gatti A., Fadel L., Unruh S.M., Ambrósio C.E., Sterman F.A., Pinto A.C.B.C.F. & Miglino M.A. 2009. [Radiologic images of the thoracic cavity of Golden Retriever dogs affected by muscular dystrophy.] Imagem radiográfica da cavidade torácica de cães Golden Retriever acometidos pela Distrofia Muscular. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(2):99-104. Departamento de Cirurgia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, São Paulo, SP 05508-270, Brazil. E-mail: flaviovet@usp.br Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) is a genetic disorder with clinical signs of muscular weaknesses and progressive atrophy. Golden Retriever dogs show similar genotypic and phenotypic characteristics to Human Muscular Dystrophy and are considered a proper animal model for DMD studies. Latero-lateral and dorso-ventral thoracic radiographies were obtained from 10 Golden Retriever dogs affected by muscular dystrophy, to investigate possible radiographic alterations. Thorax radiographic examination revealed (a) interstitial and alveolar pattern, (b) initial phases of pneumonia and pulmonary edema, (c) cardiomegaly as a principal alteration in the thoracic cavity, (d) megaesophagus displacing the trachea and heart silhouette, and (e) cranial protrusion of the diaphragm lining into the thorax with development of a hiatus hernia displacing the stomach to the caudal mediastinum. Postmortem examination showed pleural effusion, pulmonary emphysema, degenerative and metaplasic processes in the diaphragm and intercostal muscles. Radiographic examination was considered essential for the diagnosis of cardiac and respiratory disease in Golden Retriever dogs affected by muscular dystrophy, and to identify the primary pulmonary process and to provide the establishment of suitable therapeutic treatment, with a reserved prognosis in advanced stage of the disease.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Cunha N.C., Fonseca A.H., Rezende J., Rozental T., Favacho A.R.M., Barreira J.D., Massard C.L., Lemos E.R.S. 2009. First identification of natural infection of Rickettsia rickettsii in the Rhipicephalus sanguineus tick, in the State of Rio de Janeiro. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(2):105-108. Curso de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Veterinárias, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil. E-mail: adivaldo@ufrrj.br The Brazilian Spotted Fever (BSF) is a zoonotic disease caused by Rickettsia rickettsii and transmitted by ticks of the genus Amblyomma, more frequently, Amblyomma cajennense. The aim of this paper was to report the first molecular detection of R. rickettsii on R. sanguineus naturally infected in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Ticks were collected from dogs in a rural region of Resende municipality, Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil (22o 30min 9.46sec S, 44o 42min 44.29sec WO), where occurred five human cases of BSF in 2006. The ticks were identified under a stereoscopic microscope and separated in pools by stages, species and sex. DNA extraction was carried out using QIAamp DNA Mini Kit (QIAGEN®). The DNA was submitted to PCR amplification using 04 set of primers: Rr190.70p/Rr190.602n (OmpA, 532bp), BG1-21/BG2-20 (OmpB, 650bp), Tz15/Tz16 (17 kDa protein-encoding gene, 246bp) and RpCS.877p/RpCS.1258n (gltA, 381bp). PCR products were separated by electrophoresis on 1% agarose gels and visualized under ultraviolet light with ethidium bromide. PCR products of the expected sizes were purified by QIAquick® and sequenced by ABI PRISM®. The generated nucleotide sequences were edited with using Bioedit® software and compared with the corresponding homologous sequences available through GenBank, using Discontiguous Mega Blast (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov). It was confirmed R. rickettsii by sequencing of the material (GenBank FJ356230). The molecular characterization of R. rickettsii in the tick R. sanguineus emphasizes the role of dogs as carriers of ticks from the environment to home. Moreover, this result suggests that there is a considerable chance for active participation of R. sanguineus as one of tick species in the transmission of R. ricketsii to human being in the Brazilian territory.

• Rhipicephalus sanguineus Acari Ixodidae Rickettsia rickettsii molecular analysis Brazilian spotted fever

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Cunha N.C., Fonseca A.H., Rezende J., Rozental T., Favacho A.R.M., Barreira J.D., Massard C.L., Lemos E.R.S. 2009. First identification of natural infection of Rickettsia rickettsii in the Rhipicephalus sanguineus tick, in the State of Rio de Janeiro. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(2):105-108. Curso de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Veterinárias, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil. E-mail: adivaldo@ufrrj.br The Brazilian Spotted Fever (BSF) is a zoonotic disease caused by Rickettsia rickettsii and transmitted by ticks of the genus Amblyomma, more frequently, Amblyomma cajennense. The aim of this paper was to report the first molecular detection of R. rickettsii on R. sanguineus naturally infected in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Ticks were collected from dogs in a rural region of Resende municipality, Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil (22o 30min 9.46sec S, 44o 42min 44.29sec WO), where occurred five human cases of BSF in 2006. The ticks were identified under a stereoscopic microscope and separated in pools by stages, species and sex. DNA extraction was carried out using QIAamp DNA Mini Kit (QIAGEN®). The DNA was submitted to PCR amplification using 04 set of primers: Rr190.70p/Rr190.602n (OmpA, 532bp), BG1-21/BG2-20 (OmpB, 650bp), Tz15/Tz16 (17 kDa protein-encoding gene, 246bp) and RpCS.877p/RpCS.1258n (gltA, 381bp). PCR products were separated by electrophoresis on 1% agarose gels and visualized under ultraviolet light with ethidium bromide. PCR products of the expected sizes were purified by QIAquick® and sequenced by ABI PRISM®. The generated nucleotide sequences were edited with using Bioedit® software and compared with the corresponding homologous sequences available through GenBank, using Discontiguous Mega Blast (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov). It was confirmed R. rickettsii by sequencing of the material (GenBank FJ356230). The molecular characterization of R. rickettsii in the tick R. sanguineus emphasizes the role of dogs as carriers of ticks from the environment to home. Moreover, this result suggests that there is a considerable chance for active participation of R. sanguineus as one of tick species in the transmission of R. ricketsii to human being in the Brazilian territory.