PESQUISA VETERINÁRIA BRASILEIRA

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Oliveira Filho J.P., Silva D.P.G., Pacheco M.D., Mascarini L.M., Marcio Garcia Ribeiro, Alfieri A.A., Alfieri A.F., Stipp D.T., Barros B.J.P. & Borges A.S. 2007. [Diarrhea in Nelore calves: Clinical and etiologic study.] Diarréia em bezerros da raça Nelore criados extensivamente: estudo clínico e etiológico. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(10):419-424. Departamento de Clínica Veterinária, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Campus de Botucatu s/n, Distrito de Rubião Júnior, Botucatu, SP 18618000, Brazil. E-mail: zep.filho@hotmail.com Diarrhea is considered as one of the main causes of morbidity and mortality in neonates calves. Fecal samples from 100 diarrheic and 30 non-diarrheic (control group) Nelore calves less than 9 weeks old were collected for Salmonella spp., Escherichia coli, rotavirus, coronavirus, Cryptosporidium spp., and for helminth eggs investigation. Enteropathogens were detected in 79.0% diarrheic samples and 70.0% non-diarrheic samples. Among diarrheic calves, Escherichia coli (69.0%) was the most common agent found, following by Cryptosporidium spp. (30.0%), coronavirus (16.0%), and rotavirus (11.0%). In the control group, E. coli, Cryptosporidium spp. and coronavirus were detected in 66.7%, 10.0% and 3.3% of the samples, respectively. Salmonella spp. and strongylids were not found in any of the calves from either group. The K99 fimbrial only was detected in E. coli strains from diarrheic calves (5.8%). Enrofloxacin, norfloxacin, and gentamicin were the most effective among the antimicrobials tested. The weight of 210-day-old calves did not show statistic differences between diarrheic and non-diarrheic calves.

• Beef calves Nelore diarrhea enteropathogens etiology

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Oliveira Filho J.P., Silva D.P.G., Pacheco M.D., Mascarini L.M., Marcio Garcia Ribeiro, Alfieri A.A., Alfieri A.F., Stipp D.T., Barros B.J.P. & Borges A.S. 2007. [Diarrhea in Nelore calves: Clinical and etiologic study.] Diarréia em bezerros da raça Nelore criados extensivamente: estudo clínico e etiológico. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(10):419-424. Departamento de Clínica Veterinária, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Campus de Botucatu s/n, Distrito de Rubião Júnior, Botucatu, SP 18618000, Brazil. E-mail: zep.filho@hotmail.com Diarrhea is considered as one of the main causes of morbidity and mortality in neonates calves. Fecal samples from 100 diarrheic and 30 non-diarrheic (control group) Nelore calves less than 9 weeks old were collected for Salmonella spp., Escherichia coli, rotavirus, coronavirus, Cryptosporidium spp., and for helminth eggs investigation. Enteropathogens were detected in 79.0% diarrheic samples and 70.0% non-diarrheic samples. Among diarrheic calves, Escherichia coli (69.0%) was the most common agent found, following by Cryptosporidium spp. (30.0%), coronavirus (16.0%), and rotavirus (11.0%). In the control group, E. coli, Cryptosporidium spp. and coronavirus were detected in 66.7%, 10.0% and 3.3% of the samples, respectively. Salmonella spp. and strongylids were not found in any of the calves from either group. The K99 fimbrial only was detected in E. coli strains from diarrheic calves (5.8%). Enrofloxacin, norfloxacin, and gentamicin were the most effective among the antimicrobials tested. The weight of 210-day-old calves did not show statistic differences between diarrheic and non-diarrheic calves.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Moura C.E.B., Albuquerque J.F.G., Magalhães M.S., Silva N.B., Oliveira M.F. & Papa P.C. 2007. [Comparative analysis of the origin of the brachial plexus of the collared peccary (Tayassu tajacu).] Análise comparativa da origem do plexo braquial de catetos (Tayassu tajacu). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(9):357-362. Departamento de Morfologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Cx. Postal 1524, Campus Universitário Lagoa Nova, Natal, RN 59072-970, Brazil. E-mail: cadumoura@ufrnet.br Collared peccary (Tayassu tajacu) belongs to the Tayassuidae family, characterized by a “collar” of white hairs that cross behind the neck and extend bilaterally in front of the shoulders. It can be found from south-western United States to Argentina. In the literature a shortage of data is verified regarding the functional anatomy of the collared peccaries, especially of studies that involve the anatomy of the brachial plexus. To elucidate the behavior of this plexus of collared peccaries and with the purpose to contribute for the development of compared anatomy, this study was accomplished. Thirty animals of different ages were used (17 males and 13 females) coming from the Wild Animal Multiplication Center of the “Universidade Federal Rural do Semi-árido” Mossoró, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil. After slaughter bilateral dissection of the brachial plexuses took place, and the results were registered in schematic drawings and the dispositions grouped in tables for subsequent statistical analysis based on the percentile frequency. It was found that the Plexus brachialis of collared peccaries is the result of established communications, mainly among the Rami ventrales of the last three cervical nerves and of the first two thoracic nerves, having a contribution of the fourth and fifth cervical nerves in 16.67% and 50.00% of the cases, respectively. In 40.00% of the dissections the most frequent plexus was of the type C6, C7, C8, T1 and T2. The main nerves derived from brachial plexus of the collared peccaries and its respective origins had been: Nervus suprascapularis (C6, C7), Nn. subscapulares (C5, C6 e C7 or C6 e C7), N. axillaris (C6, C7), N. musculocutaneus (C7, C8), N. medianus (C7, C8, T1, T2), N. radialis (C8, T1, T2), N. ulnaris (C8, T1, T2), cranialis (C7), and caudalis (C7, C8) Nn. pectorales, N. thoracodorsalis (C6, C7, C8), N. thoracicus longus (C7, C8), and N. thoracicus lateralis (C8, T1, T2).

• Brachial plexus neuroanatomy wild animals

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Moura C.E.B., Albuquerque J.F.G., Magalhães M.S., Silva N.B., Oliveira M.F. & Papa P.C. 2007. [Comparative analysis of the origin of the brachial plexus of the collared peccary (Tayassu tajacu).] Análise comparativa da origem do plexo braquial de catetos (Tayassu tajacu). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(9):357-362. Departamento de Morfologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Cx. Postal 1524, Campus Universitário Lagoa Nova, Natal, RN 59072-970, Brazil. E-mail: cadumoura@ufrnet.br Collared peccary (Tayassu tajacu) belongs to the Tayassuidae family, characterized by a “collar” of white hairs that cross behind the neck and extend bilaterally in front of the shoulders. It can be found from south-western United States to Argentina. In the literature a shortage of data is verified regarding the functional anatomy of the collared peccaries, especially of studies that involve the anatomy of the brachial plexus. To elucidate the behavior of this plexus of collared peccaries and with the purpose to contribute for the development of compared anatomy, this study was accomplished. Thirty animals of different ages were used (17 males and 13 females) coming from the Wild Animal Multiplication Center of the “Universidade Federal Rural do Semi-árido” Mossoró, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil. After slaughter bilateral dissection of the brachial plexuses took place, and the results were registered in schematic drawings and the dispositions grouped in tables for subsequent statistical analysis based on the percentile frequency. It was found that the Plexus brachialis of collared peccaries is the result of established communications, mainly among the Rami ventrales of the last three cervical nerves and of the first two thoracic nerves, having a contribution of the fourth and fifth cervical nerves in 16.67% and 50.00% of the cases, respectively. In 40.00% of the dissections the most frequent plexus was of the type C6, C7, C8, T1 and T2. The main nerves derived from brachial plexus of the collared peccaries and its respective origins had been: Nervus suprascapularis (C6, C7), Nn. subscapulares (C5, C6 e C7 or C6 e C7), N. axillaris (C6, C7), N. musculocutaneus (C7, C8), N. medianus (C7, C8, T1, T2), N. radialis (C8, T1, T2), N. ulnaris (C8, T1, T2), cranialis (C7), and caudalis (C7, C8) Nn. pectorales, N. thoracodorsalis (C6, C7, C8), N. thoracicus longus (C7, C8), and N. thoracicus lateralis (C8, T1, T2).

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Faleiros R.R., Macoris D.G., Alves G.E.S., Saquetti C.H.C. & Alessi A.C. 2007. [Histomorphometric and ultrastructural evaluation of the mucosa of the equine small colon subjected to distention.] Avaliação histomorfométrica e ultra-estrutural da mucosa do cólon menor eqüino submetido à distensão. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(9):383-387. Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia Veterinária, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Campus de Jaboticabal, Rodovia Carlos Tonanni Km 5, Jaboticabal, SP 14870-000, Brazil. E-mail: faleiros@ufmg.br Recently it has been shown that experimental distention of the small colon of horses promotes reduction of microvascular circulation and inflammation of the seromuscular layer associated with neutrophil accumulation in the lungs. However this model was not sufficient to induce evident histophatological changes in the mucosal layer. The aim of this study was to evaluate the mucosa subjected to that model of small colon distention by histomorphometry and scan electronic microscopy (SEM). Sixteen horses were used. In the distended group (DG), nine of them were subjected to distention of the small colon by a surgically implanted intraluminal balloon that was inflated with a pressure of 40mm Hg during 4 hours. In the sham-operated group (SG), the balloon was implanted but not inflated. Full-thickness intestinal samples were collected before and after obstruction and after 1.5 and 12 hours of decom-pression. By SEM, it was observed that the mucosa turned flat and smooth after distention and returned to the wrinkled original appearance after decompression. Twelve hours after decompression the mucosa had a more irregular appearance with points of fragmentation. There was a reduction in mucosa thickness after distention, returning to basal values after decompression. Instead of the fact that there were changes in appearance and thickness, it was concluded that the mucosa could borne up the compression caused by distention returning to the original characteristics without major lesions.

• Small colon intestinal distention colic horse

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Faleiros R.R., Macoris D.G., Alves G.E.S., Saquetti C.H.C. & Alessi A.C. 2007. [Histomorphometric and ultrastructural evaluation of the mucosa of the equine small colon subjected to distention.] Avaliação histomorfométrica e ultra-estrutural da mucosa do cólon menor eqüino submetido à distensão. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(9):383-387. Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia Veterinária, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Campus de Jaboticabal, Rodovia Carlos Tonanni Km 5, Jaboticabal, SP 14870-000, Brazil. E-mail: faleiros@ufmg.br Recently it has been shown that experimental distention of the small colon of horses promotes reduction of microvascular circulation and inflammation of the seromuscular layer associated with neutrophil accumulation in the lungs. However this model was not sufficient to induce evident histophatological changes in the mucosal layer. The aim of this study was to evaluate the mucosa subjected to that model of small colon distention by histomorphometry and scan electronic microscopy (SEM). Sixteen horses were used. In the distended group (DG), nine of them were subjected to distention of the small colon by a surgically implanted intraluminal balloon that was inflated with a pressure of 40mm Hg during 4 hours. In the sham-operated group (SG), the balloon was implanted but not inflated. Full-thickness intestinal samples were collected before and after obstruction and after 1.5 and 12 hours of decom-pression. By SEM, it was observed that the mucosa turned flat and smooth after distention and returned to the wrinkled original appearance after decompression. Twelve hours after decompression the mucosa had a more irregular appearance with points of fragmentation. There was a reduction in mucosa thickness after distention, returning to basal values after decompression. Instead of the fact that there were changes in appearance and thickness, it was concluded that the mucosa could borne up the compression caused by distention returning to the original characteristics without major lesions.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Julião F.S., Souza B.M.P.S., Freitas D.S.,Oliveira L.S., Larangeira D.F., Dias-Lima A.G.,Souza V.M.M., Barrouin-Melo S.M., Moreira Jr E.D., Paule B.J.A. & Franke C.R. 2007. [Investigation of risk areas as complemental methodology for the control of canine visceral leishmaniasis.] Investigação de áreas de risco como metodologia complementar ao controle da leishmaniose visceral canina. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(8):319-324. Laboratório de Infectologia Veterinária, Escola de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Av. Adhemar de Barros 500, Ondina, Salvador, BA 40170-110, Brazil. E-mail: franke@ufba.br Risk areas of canine visceral leishmaniasis in the city of Camaçari, Bahia, Brazil, were investigated. A total of 278 dogs from 141 homes pertaining to 20 investigated risk areas was serologically screened (ELISA). The general seroprevalence was 21.7% (56/258) after exclusion of 20 dogs used at the beginning of the survey to limit the study area. The respective results of the univariated and multivariated analysis of factors related to infection of dogs by Leishmania chagasi, to vector distribu-tion pattern in the area and to the methodology used to localize the canine focuses are discussed.

• Visceral leishmaniasis Leishmania infantum Lutzomyia longipalpis control dogs epidemiology Brazil

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Julião F.S., Souza B.M.P.S., Freitas D.S.,Oliveira L.S., Larangeira D.F., Dias-Lima A.G.,Souza V.M.M., Barrouin-Melo S.M., Moreira Jr E.D., Paule B.J.A. & Franke C.R. 2007. [Investigation of risk areas as complemental methodology for the control of canine visceral leishmaniasis.] Investigação de áreas de risco como metodologia complementar ao controle da leishmaniose visceral canina. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(8):319-324. Laboratório de Infectologia Veterinária, Escola de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Av. Adhemar de Barros 500, Ondina, Salvador, BA 40170-110, Brazil. E-mail: franke@ufba.br Risk areas of canine visceral leishmaniasis in the city of Camaçari, Bahia, Brazil, were investigated. A total of 278 dogs from 141 homes pertaining to 20 investigated risk areas was serologically screened (ELISA). The general seroprevalence was 21.7% (56/258) after exclusion of 20 dogs used at the beginning of the survey to limit the study area. The respective results of the univariated and multivariated analysis of factors related to infection of dogs by Leishmania chagasi, to vector distribu-tion pattern in the area and to the methodology used to localize the canine focuses are discussed.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Inkelmann M.A., Rozza D.B., Fighera R.A., Kommers G.D., Graça D.L., Irigoyen L.F. & Barros C.S.L. 2007. [Infectious canine hepatitis: 62 cases.] Hepatite infecciosa canina: 62 casos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(8):325-332. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br Necropsy reports from 5,361 dogs necropsied over a 43-year period (1964-2006) were reviewed in search for cases of infectious canine hepatitis (ICH). Sixty two (1.2%) cases of the disease were found. Most of the 62 affected dogs (91.9%,) were 2-year-old or less. Clinical signs were recorded in the necropsy files of 45 ICH affected dogs and included anorexia (55.6%), apathy (35.6%), diarrhea (35.6%) (often with blood [43,8%]), neurological signs (33.3%), vomiting (26.7%), petechiae and echymosis in the mucous membranes and/or skin (24.4%), hypothermia (20.0%), abdominal pain (15.6%), icterus (13.3%), enlargement and congestion of the tonsils (11.1%), fever (11.1%) and ascites (6.7%). The clinical courses lasted from few hours to 15 days. The most frequent necropsy findings included hepatic changes (87.1%), edematous, congested and hemorrhagic lymph nodes (51.6%), bloodstained fluid, clear fluid or whole blood in the abdominal cavity (35.5%), and petechial or paint-brush hemorrhages over the pleural (27.4%) and gastrointestinal (24.2%) serosal surfaces. In 12.9% of the cases there was a granularity to the intestinal serosa. Hemorrhages in the leptomeninges and in the substance of the brain were observed in 9.7% of the cases. Hepatic gross changes included moderately enlarged and more friable livers with marked lobular pattern, congestion and multifocal pale or hemorrhagic foci of necrosis. Films and strands of fibrin covered the hepatic surface in 20.4% of the cases and in 27.8% of the cases the gall bladder was thickened by edema. Zonal or randomly distributed multifocal hepatic necrosis (93.5%) associated with intranuclear inclusion bodies were the most consistent microscopic findings. Intranuclear inclusion bodies were found in the liver in every case and their detection was the criterium for confirmation of the diagnosis. The most significant microscopic extra-hepatic lesions included hemorrhages and intranuclear inclusion bodies in endothelial and reticuloendothelial cells of the renal glomeruli (50.0%) lymph nodes (47.8%), brain (27.8%), tonsils (25.0%) and spleen (10.0%).

• Liver diseases viral diseases infectious diseases pathology diseases of dogs infectious canine hepatitis

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Inkelmann M.A., Rozza D.B., Fighera R.A., Kommers G.D., Graça D.L., Irigoyen L.F. & Barros C.S.L. 2007. [Infectious canine hepatitis: 62 cases.] Hepatite infecciosa canina: 62 casos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(8):325-332. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br Necropsy reports from 5,361 dogs necropsied over a 43-year period (1964-2006) were reviewed in search for cases of infectious canine hepatitis (ICH). Sixty two (1.2%) cases of the disease were found. Most of the 62 affected dogs (91.9%,) were 2-year-old or less. Clinical signs were recorded in the necropsy files of 45 ICH affected dogs and included anorexia (55.6%), apathy (35.6%), diarrhea (35.6%) (often with blood [43,8%]), neurological signs (33.3%), vomiting (26.7%), petechiae and echymosis in the mucous membranes and/or skin (24.4%), hypothermia (20.0%), abdominal pain (15.6%), icterus (13.3%), enlargement and congestion of the tonsils (11.1%), fever (11.1%) and ascites (6.7%). The clinical courses lasted from few hours to 15 days. The most frequent necropsy findings included hepatic changes (87.1%), edematous, congested and hemorrhagic lymph nodes (51.6%), bloodstained fluid, clear fluid or whole blood in the abdominal cavity (35.5%), and petechial or paint-brush hemorrhages over the pleural (27.4%) and gastrointestinal (24.2%) serosal surfaces. In 12.9% of the cases there was a granularity to the intestinal serosa. Hemorrhages in the leptomeninges and in the substance of the brain were observed in 9.7% of the cases. Hepatic gross changes included moderately enlarged and more friable livers with marked lobular pattern, congestion and multifocal pale or hemorrhagic foci of necrosis. Films and strands of fibrin covered the hepatic surface in 20.4% of the cases and in 27.8% of the cases the gall bladder was thickened by edema. Zonal or randomly distributed multifocal hepatic necrosis (93.5%) associated with intranuclear inclusion bodies were the most consistent microscopic findings. Intranuclear inclusion bodies were found in the liver in every case and their detection was the criterium for confirmation of the diagnosis. The most significant microscopic extra-hepatic lesions included hemorrhages and intranuclear inclusion bodies in endothelial and reticuloendothelial cells of the renal glomeruli (50.0%) lymph nodes (47.8%), brain (27.8%), tonsils (25.0%) and spleen (10.0%).

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Rissi D.R., Rech R.R., Flores E.F., Kommers G.D. & Barros C.S.L. 2007. [Meningoencephalitis by bovine herpesvirus-5.] Meningoencefalite por herpesvírus bovino-5. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(7):251-260. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br Meningoencephalitis caused by bovine herpesvirus-5 (BoHV-5) is an often fatal, acute or subacute infectious disease that affects mainly young cattle under stressing conditions. The disease has been recognized in several Brazilian regions and in other parts of the world. BoHV-5 is a double stranded DNA virus member of the Herpesviridae family and subfamily Alphaherpesvirinae. The virus is characterized by rapid and lytic replication in cell cultures and by the ability to establish lifelong latent infection in sensory nerve ganglia of the host. BoHV-5 is transmitted mainly by direct and indirect contact and replicates acutely in the oral, nasal, oropharingeal or ocular mucosae. After primary replication, the virus invades nerve endings and is transported to the neuron cell bodies of the sensory ganglia where it replicates actively and/or establishes latency. Viral invasion of the brain may result in massive virus replication and production of neurological disease. Virtually all cattle developing neurological disease die of meningoencephalitis; yet the infection may be subclinical in some animals. These animals recover and become latently infected. Viral dissemination within a herd is facilitated by conditions such as crowding, introduction of cattle from other herds and weaning of calves in ages that coincide with decrease of passive immunity. Certain natural or induced conditions may reactivate the latent virus and favor its transmission and dissemination to other susceptible individuals. The disease may occur as outbreaks or as sporadic cases, with morbidity rates ranging of 0.05%-5%; lethality is almost always 100%. Clinical signs include depression, nasal and ocular discharge, grinding of teeth, circling, blindness, fever, paddling movements, disphagia, abdominal pain, nystagmus, muscle tremors, drooling, incoordinated gait, opisthotonus, head pressing, falls and convulsions. Clinical course is usually 1-15 days. Necropsy findings may be absent but often there is swollen of the rostral portions of the cerebral cortex and flattening of gyri, with softening and segmental yellow discoloration (malacia). As the disease progresses the affected areas become gelatinous and grey and, in advanced cases, there is segmental loss of the cerebral cortex of the frontal lobe of the brain (residual lesion). In several cases there is malacia of the basal nuclei and of the thalamus. Histologically, there is necrotizing non-suppurative meningoencephalitis affecting mainly the cerebral cortex of the frontal lobe associated with eosinophilic intranuclear inclusion bodies in neurons and astrocytes, although the frequency of the inclusion bodies is inconsistent. The diagnosis of meningoencephalitis by BoHV-5 should be based on epidemiology, clinical signs, necropsy and histological findings. The diagnosis should be confirmed by viral isolation in cell culture and/or by detection of viral antigens in brain sections or in exfoliated cells from nasal secretions. The identification and characterization of BoHV-5 can be done by the use of monoclonal antibodies, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and/or by restriction enzyme analysis of the viral genome. There is no specific treatment for the disease. As BoHV-1 and BoHV-5 are antigenically related, vaccination using BoHV-1 vaccines may be recommended as a means of reducing the losses caused by BoHV-5 infection, mainly during outbreaks of neurologic disease. Additionally, measures such as serologic testing of new additions to the herd; and management practices to prevent stress and to reduce conditions for virus dissemination among animals may help in reducing the incidence and the consequences of BoHV-5 infection and disease.

• Bovine herpesvirus-5 BoHV-5 BHV-5 meningoencephalitis viral diseases diseases of cattle neuropathology

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Rissi D.R., Rech R.R., Flores E.F., Kommers G.D. & Barros C.S.L. 2007. [Meningoencephalitis by bovine herpesvirus-5.] Meningoencefalite por herpesvírus bovino-5. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(7):251-260. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br Meningoencephalitis caused by bovine herpesvirus-5 (BoHV-5) is an often fatal, acute or subacute infectious disease that affects mainly young cattle under stressing conditions. The disease has been recognized in several Brazilian regions and in other parts of the world. BoHV-5 is a double stranded DNA virus member of the Herpesviridae family and subfamily Alphaherpesvirinae. The virus is characterized by rapid and lytic replication in cell cultures and by the ability to establish lifelong latent infection in sensory nerve ganglia of the host. BoHV-5 is transmitted mainly by direct and indirect contact and replicates acutely in the oral, nasal, oropharingeal or ocular mucosae. After primary replication, the virus invades nerve endings and is transported to the neuron cell bodies of the sensory ganglia where it replicates actively and/or establishes latency. Viral invasion of the brain may result in massive virus replication and production of neurological disease. Virtually all cattle developing neurological disease die of meningoencephalitis; yet the infection may be subclinical in some animals. These animals recover and become latently infected. Viral dissemination within a herd is facilitated by conditions such as crowding, introduction of cattle from other herds and weaning of calves in ages that coincide with decrease of passive immunity. Certain natural or induced conditions may reactivate the latent virus and favor its transmission and dissemination to other susceptible individuals. The disease may occur as outbreaks or as sporadic cases, with morbidity rates ranging of 0.05%-5%; lethality is almost always 100%. Clinical signs include depression, nasal and ocular discharge, grinding of teeth, circling, blindness, fever, paddling movements, disphagia, abdominal pain, nystagmus, muscle tremors, drooling, incoordinated gait, opisthotonus, head pressing, falls and convulsions. Clinical course is usually 1-15 days. Necropsy findings may be absent but often there is swollen of the rostral portions of the cerebral cortex and flattening of gyri, with softening and segmental yellow discoloration (malacia). As the disease progresses the affected areas become gelatinous and grey and, in advanced cases, there is segmental loss of the cerebral cortex of the frontal lobe of the brain (residual lesion). In several cases there is malacia of the basal nuclei and of the thalamus. Histologically, there is necrotizing non-suppurative meningoencephalitis affecting mainly the cerebral cortex of the frontal lobe associated with eosinophilic intranuclear inclusion bodies in neurons and astrocytes, although the frequency of the inclusion bodies is inconsistent. The diagnosis of meningoencephalitis by BoHV-5 should be based on epidemiology, clinical signs, necropsy and histological findings. The diagnosis should be confirmed by viral isolation in cell culture and/or by detection of viral antigens in brain sections or in exfoliated cells from nasal secretions. The identification and characterization of BoHV-5 can be done by the use of monoclonal antibodies, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and/or by restriction enzyme analysis of the viral genome. There is no specific treatment for the disease. As BoHV-1 and BoHV-5 are antigenically related, vaccination using BoHV-1 vaccines may be recommended as a means of reducing the losses caused by BoHV-5 infection, mainly during outbreaks of neurologic disease. Additionally, measures such as serologic testing of new additions to the herd; and management practices to prevent stress and to reduce conditions for virus dissemination among animals may help in reducing the incidence and the consequences of BoHV-5 infection and disease.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Rissi D.R., Rech R.R., Pierezan F., Gabriel A.L., Trost M.E., Brum J.S., Kommers G.D. & Barros C.S.L. 2007. [Plant and plant-associated mycotoxins poisoning in cattle in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil: 461 cases.] Intoxicações por plantas e micotoxinas associadas a plantas em bovinos no Rio Grande do Sul: 461 casos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(7):261-268. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br From 1990 to 2005, tissues from 2,912 cattle necropsies were examined at the Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology (LPV) of the Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM), Brazil. These tissues came from necropsies performed by faculty members of the LPV or were mailed-in samples from necropsy performed by veterinarian practitioners. In 461 (15.83%) of these necropsies the cause of death was attributed to the ingestion of poisonous plants. In decreasing order of frequency poisoning by the following plants were registered: Senecio spp (56.14%), Pteridium aquilinum (12.06%), Ateleia glazioviana (10.31%), Solanum fastigiatum (5.04%), Baccharis coridifolia (3.29%), Xanthium cavanillesii (3.07%), Senna occidentalis (2.63%), Ramaria flavo-brunnescens (2.41%), Amaranthus spp (2.19%), Vicia villosa (1.54%), Ipomoea batatas, Prunus sellowii, cytrus pulp (0.44% each), Cestrum parqui, Claviceps paspali, Claviceps purpurea, Brachiaria spp and Lantana sp (0.22% each). In a given outbreak the number of affected cattle was substantially higher than the number of necropsies performed. The following aspects are discussed for each plant: geographical distribution; factors inducing ingestion; morbidity, mortality and lethality rates, clinical signs, necropsy findings, histopathology. For those plants in which information on the active principle and pathogenesis are available, these aspects are included in the discussion.

• Poisonous plants epidemiology cattle diseases

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Rissi D.R., Rech R.R., Pierezan F., Gabriel A.L., Trost M.E., Brum J.S., Kommers G.D. & Barros C.S.L. 2007. [Plant and plant-associated mycotoxins poisoning in cattle in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil: 461 cases.] Intoxicações por plantas e micotoxinas associadas a plantas em bovinos no Rio Grande do Sul: 461 casos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(7):261-268. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br From 1990 to 2005, tissues from 2,912 cattle necropsies were examined at the Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology (LPV) of the Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM), Brazil. These tissues came from necropsies performed by faculty members of the LPV or were mailed-in samples from necropsy performed by veterinarian practitioners. In 461 (15.83%) of these necropsies the cause of death was attributed to the ingestion of poisonous plants. In decreasing order of frequency poisoning by the following plants were registered: Senecio spp (56.14%), Pteridium aquilinum (12.06%), Ateleia glazioviana (10.31%), Solanum fastigiatum (5.04%), Baccharis coridifolia (3.29%), Xanthium cavanillesii (3.07%), Senna occidentalis (2.63%), Ramaria flavo-brunnescens (2.41%), Amaranthus spp (2.19%), Vicia villosa (1.54%), Ipomoea batatas, Prunus sellowii, cytrus pulp (0.44% each), Cestrum parqui, Claviceps paspali, Claviceps purpurea, Brachiaria spp and Lantana sp (0.22% each). In a given outbreak the number of affected cattle was substantially higher than the number of necropsies performed. The following aspects are discussed for each plant: geographical distribution; factors inducing ingestion; morbidity, mortality and lethality rates, clinical signs, necropsy findings, histopathology. For those plants in which information on the active principle and pathogenesis are available, these aspects are included in the discussion.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Schons S.V., Kommers G.D., Pereira G.M., Raffi M.B. & Schild A.L. 2007. [Microscopic, immunohistochemical, and ultra-structural study of the lesions experimentaly induced by Ramaria flavo-brunnescens (Clavariaceae) in cattle.] Estudo histológico, imuno-histoquímico e ultra-estrutural das lesões induzidas experimentalmente por Ramaria flavo-brunnescens (Clavariaceae) em bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(7):269-276. Laboratório Regional de Diagnóstico, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Campus Universitário s/n, Pelotas, RS 96010-900, Brazil. E-mail: alschild@terra.com.br The objective of this study was to investigate the pathogenesis of the lesions observed in cattle experimentally poisoned by Ramaria flavo-brunnescens. The mushroom was given to three 9 to10-month-old Jersey calves immediately after harvesting. Daily doses were around 20g/kg of body weight during 7 (Calf 1) or 13 days (Calves 2-3), and the total doses of mushroom given were 140, 268, and 261g/kg of body weight, respectively. One calf (Calf 4) with same age and breed was used as control. Clinical signs were characterized by prostration, anorexia, hyperemia of oral mucosa, and loosening of long hairs of the tail tip under mild traction. The calves were submitted to euthanasia and necropsied on days 8 (Calf 1) and 15 (Calves 2-4) after the beginning of the experiment. Microscopically, there was smoothness of dorsal epithelium of tongue with absence of filiform papillae, vacuolation of keratinocytes, and loosening of the keratin layer. In the hooves, there was vacuolation and irregular keratinization of the laminar epidermis and hyperplasia of keratinocytes. Hyperkeratosis, vacuolation of the external root sheath, thickening of tricholemal keratin, and inflammatory infiltration around hair follicles were observed on the skin of the tail tip. Immunohistochemical results with anti-pancytoceratin and anti-Ki67 (cell proliferation marker) antibodies showed no differences between the tongue dorsal epithelium of the control and experimental calves. Ultrastructural study demonstrated decrease in tonofilaments and increased intercellular spaces of the spinous layer of the tongue dorsal epithelium. The results of this study favor the hypothesis of an interference with the epithelial keratinization mechanisms by the toxic principles of Ramaria flavo-brunnescens.

• Ramaria flavo-brunnecens mushroom poisoning cattle diseases pathology

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Schons S.V., Kommers G.D., Pereira G.M., Raffi M.B. & Schild A.L. 2007. [Microscopic, immunohistochemical, and ultra-structural study of the lesions experimentaly induced by Ramaria flavo-brunnescens (Clavariaceae) in cattle.] Estudo histológico, imuno-histoquímico e ultra-estrutural das lesões induzidas experimentalmente por Ramaria flavo-brunnescens (Clavariaceae) em bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(7):269-276. Laboratório Regional de Diagnóstico, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Campus Universitário s/n, Pelotas, RS 96010-900, Brazil. E-mail: alschild@terra.com.br The objective of this study was to investigate the pathogenesis of the lesions observed in cattle experimentally poisoned by Ramaria flavo-brunnescens. The mushroom was given to three 9 to10-month-old Jersey calves immediately after harvesting. Daily doses were around 20g/kg of body weight during 7 (Calf 1) or 13 days (Calves 2-3), and the total doses of mushroom given were 140, 268, and 261g/kg of body weight, respectively. One calf (Calf 4) with same age and breed was used as control. Clinical signs were characterized by prostration, anorexia, hyperemia of oral mucosa, and loosening of long hairs of the tail tip under mild traction. The calves were submitted to euthanasia and necropsied on days 8 (Calf 1) and 15 (Calves 2-4) after the beginning of the experiment. Microscopically, there was smoothness of dorsal epithelium of tongue with absence of filiform papillae, vacuolation of keratinocytes, and loosening of the keratin layer. In the hooves, there was vacuolation and irregular keratinization of the laminar epidermis and hyperplasia of keratinocytes. Hyperkeratosis, vacuolation of the external root sheath, thickening of tricholemal keratin, and inflammatory infiltration around hair follicles were observed on the skin of the tail tip. Immunohistochemical results with anti-pancytoceratin and anti-Ki67 (cell proliferation marker) antibodies showed no differences between the tongue dorsal epithelium of the control and experimental calves. Ultrastructural study demonstrated decrease in tonofilaments and increased intercellular spaces of the spinous layer of the tongue dorsal epithelium. The results of this study favor the hypothesis of an interference with the epithelial keratinization mechanisms by the toxic principles of Ramaria flavo-brunnescens.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Sanz M.G., Venturini L., Assis R.A., Uzal F., Risso M.A., Idiart J.R. & Perfumo C.J. 2007. Fibrinonecrotic enteritis of piglets in a commercial farm: a postmortem study of the prevalence and the role of lesion associated agents Isospora suis and Clostridium perfringens. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(7):297-300. Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, CC 296, B1900 AVW, 60 y 119, La Plata, Argentina. E-mail: cjperfumo@fcv.unlp.edu.ar The objectives were to determine the prevalence of fibrinonecrotic enteritis (FNE) on a farrow-to-finish farm of 1,000 sows, to categorize the pathological changes, and to to investigate the lesion associated agents Isospora suis and Clostridium perfringens. Causes of preweaning mortality (PWM) were classified into 8 categories including FNE. Obtained data were evaluated for statistical significance by adjusted Chi-square analysis. Samples of FNE were taken for complementary studies including a PCR technique for genotyping toxin genes of Clostridium perfringens from gut samples fixed in 10% neutral formalin. From 3,153 piglets examined, less than 1% was classified as FNE. FNE prevalence increased progressively from the first to the third week, the last differing statistically from the others. Eighty percent of gut samples with FNE lesions were positive to Isospora suis, when examined by PCR from 9 severe FNE lesions detected 7 positive samples only for a toxin gene, characteristic of C. perfringens type-A.

• Fibrinonecrotic enteritis piglets prevalence Isospora suis Clostridium perfringens PCR

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Sanz M.G., Venturini L., Assis R.A., Uzal F., Risso M.A., Idiart J.R. & Perfumo C.J. 2007. Fibrinonecrotic enteritis of piglets in a commercial farm: a postmortem study of the prevalence and the role of lesion associated agents Isospora suis and Clostridium perfringens. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(7):297-300. Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, CC 296, B1900 AVW, 60 y 119, La Plata, Argentina. E-mail: cjperfumo@fcv.unlp.edu.ar The objectives were to determine the prevalence of fibrinonecrotic enteritis (FNE) on a farrow-to-finish farm of 1,000 sows, to categorize the pathological changes, and to to investigate the lesion associated agents Isospora suis and Clostridium perfringens. Causes of preweaning mortality (PWM) were classified into 8 categories including FNE. Obtained data were evaluated for statistical significance by adjusted Chi-square analysis. Samples of FNE were taken for complementary studies including a PCR technique for genotyping toxin genes of Clostridium perfringens from gut samples fixed in 10% neutral formalin. From 3,153 piglets examined, less than 1% was classified as FNE. FNE prevalence increased progressively from the first to the third week, the last differing statistically from the others. Eighty percent of gut samples with FNE lesions were positive to Isospora suis, when examined by PCR from 9 severe FNE lesions detected 7 positive samples only for a toxin gene, characteristic of C. perfringens type-A.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Melo E.S.P., Araújo F.R., Ramos C.A.N., Soares C.O., Rosinha G.M.S., Elisei C. & Madruga C.R. 2007. [ELISA based on recombinant truncated MSP5 for detection of antibodies against Anaplasma marginale in cattle.] ELISA com MSP5 recombinante truncada para detecção de anticorpos contra Anaplasma marginale em bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(7):301-306. Embrapa Gado de Corte, Cx. Postal 154, Campo Grande, MS 79002-970, Brazil. E-mail: flabio@cnpgc.embrapa.br The objective of this study was the production and solubilization of recombinant truncated MSP5 of Anaplasma marginale and the evaluation of its performance in an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), to detect antibodies against the rickettsia in cattle. The fragment of msp5 gene, except the hydrophobic N-terminal region, was amplified by PCR, cloned in pTrcHis-TOPO plasmid and expressed in Escherichia coli. Solubilization of the recombinant protein was evaluated in different pHs and concentrations of urea. The sensibility and specificity of the assay were evaluated with 66 sera from cattle experimentally-infected and 96 sera from cattle free of A. marginale defined by polymerase chain reaction for msp5 gene. Serum samples from 1,666 cattle from Brazil - states of Rio Grande do Sul (73), Mato Grosso do Sul (91), Pernambuco (86), Bahia (314) and Minas Gerais (267), Uruguay (32) and Costa Rica (803), were tested by ELISAs with recombinant truncated MSP5 and with recombinant MSP1a, and the agreement between both ELISAs was calculated. ELISA with recombinant truncated MSP5 protein detected infected animals with sensibility of 96.97% and specificity of 100%. In cattle experimentally-infected, the ELISA detected antibodies from the 12th day post-infection (DPI) to the end of the experiment, at the 37th DPI. The agreement between the ELISAs with truncated MSP5 and MSP1a antigens was 95.67%, with a kappa index of 0.81. Disagreement results showed significative difference (p <0.001). Antibodies for A. marginale were detected in animals of the all the region analyzed. The ELISA with recombinant truncated MSP5 showed a good performance in ELISA for detention of antibodies against A. marginale, with high sensitivity and specificity, representing an important tool for the diagnosis of anaplasmose bovine in epidemiological studies.

• Anaplasma marginale ELISA MSP5 solubilization recombinant protein

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Melo E.S.P., Araújo F.R., Ramos C.A.N., Soares C.O., Rosinha G.M.S., Elisei C. & Madruga C.R. 2007. [ELISA based on recombinant truncated MSP5 for detection of antibodies against Anaplasma marginale in cattle.] ELISA com MSP5 recombinante truncada para detecção de anticorpos contra Anaplasma marginale em bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(7):301-306. Embrapa Gado de Corte, Cx. Postal 154, Campo Grande, MS 79002-970, Brazil. E-mail: flabio@cnpgc.embrapa.br The objective of this study was the production and solubilization of recombinant truncated MSP5 of Anaplasma marginale and the evaluation of its performance in an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), to detect antibodies against the rickettsia in cattle. The fragment of msp5 gene, except the hydrophobic N-terminal region, was amplified by PCR, cloned in pTrcHis-TOPO plasmid and expressed in Escherichia coli. Solubilization of the recombinant protein was evaluated in different pHs and concentrations of urea. The sensibility and specificity of the assay were evaluated with 66 sera from cattle experimentally-infected and 96 sera from cattle free of A. marginale defined by polymerase chain reaction for msp5 gene. Serum samples from 1,666 cattle from Brazil - states of Rio Grande do Sul (73), Mato Grosso do Sul (91), Pernambuco (86), Bahia (314) and Minas Gerais (267), Uruguay (32) and Costa Rica (803), were tested by ELISAs with recombinant truncated MSP5 and with recombinant MSP1a, and the agreement between both ELISAs was calculated. ELISA with recombinant truncated MSP5 protein detected infected animals with sensibility of 96.97% and specificity of 100%. In cattle experimentally-infected, the ELISA detected antibodies from the 12th day post-infection (DPI) to the end of the experiment, at the 37th DPI. The agreement between the ELISAs with truncated MSP5 and MSP1a antigens was 95.67%, with a kappa index of 0.81. Disagreement results showed significative difference (p <0.001). Antibodies for A. marginale were detected in animals of the all the region analyzed. The ELISA with recombinant truncated MSP5 showed a good performance in ELISA for detention of antibodies against A. marginale, with high sensitivity and specificity, representing an important tool for the diagnosis of anaplasmose bovine in epidemiological studies.