PESQUISA VETERINÁRIA BRASILEIRA

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Corrêa A.M.R., Zlotowski P., Barcellos D.E.S.N., Cruz C.E.F. & Driemeier D. 2008. Gastric ulcers in pigs affected with postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(12):601-605. Departamento de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: davetpat@ufrgs.br Samples of gastric lymph nodes and the stomachs from 24 pigs selected from herds affected by postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome (PMWS) and sudden death associated with gastric ulcers were studied. Pigs were selected on the basis of unthriftiness, decreased feed intake, and wasting. The stomachs were opened, inverted, and classified into 0-3 score according the severity of the gross lesions present in pars oesophagica (non-glandulargastric mucosa). Selected samples were processed for paraffin embedding and stained with hematoxylin and eosin. Immunohistochemistry using anti-PCV2 (porcine circovírus type 2) antibody, anti-Helicobacter pylori antibody and a wide-spectrum anti-cytokeratin antibody was performed. Gross changes in pars oesophagea were classified according to the severity of lesions as score 3, 2, and 1 in 8, 6, 5 stomachs respectivelly. Microscopically, hyperplastic lymphoid follicles, lymphohistiocytic inflammatory infiltrates and focci of necrosis in the gastric mucosa were common findings. Large amounts of PCV2 antigen were observed in the cytoplasm and nuclei from intralesional cells and debris from the gastric glandular mucosal zone; however, in the fundus, anti-PCV2 immunostaining was restricted to the surface mucosal cells and foveolar compartment. All gastric lymph nodes were positive for PCV2 antigen. Anti-H. pylori immunostaining was seen in eleven cases, mainly in the antrum, on the mucosal surface and foveolar compartment. The association of the anti-PCV2 immunostaining with the glandular mucus-producing cells suggests a role for PCV2 as an additional factor for the swine ulcer development.

• Diseases of swine gastric ulcer PMWS PCV2 Helicobacter pylori

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Corrêa A.M.R., Zlotowski P., Barcellos D.E.S.N., Cruz C.E.F. & Driemeier D. 2008. Gastric ulcers in pigs affected with postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(12):601-605. Departamento de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: davetpat@ufrgs.br Samples of gastric lymph nodes and the stomachs from 24 pigs selected from herds affected by postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome (PMWS) and sudden death associated with gastric ulcers were studied. Pigs were selected on the basis of unthriftiness, decreased feed intake, and wasting. The stomachs were opened, inverted, and classified into 0-3 score according the severity of the gross lesions present in pars oesophagica (non-glandulargastric mucosa). Selected samples were processed for paraffin embedding and stained with hematoxylin and eosin. Immunohistochemistry using anti-PCV2 (porcine circovírus type 2) antibody, anti-Helicobacter pylori antibody and a wide-spectrum anti-cytokeratin antibody was performed. Gross changes in pars oesophagea were classified according to the severity of lesions as score 3, 2, and 1 in 8, 6, 5 stomachs respectivelly. Microscopically, hyperplastic lymphoid follicles, lymphohistiocytic inflammatory infiltrates and focci of necrosis in the gastric mucosa were common findings. Large amounts of PCV2 antigen were observed in the cytoplasm and nuclei from intralesional cells and debris from the gastric glandular mucosal zone; however, in the fundus, anti-PCV2 immunostaining was restricted to the surface mucosal cells and foveolar compartment. All gastric lymph nodes were positive for PCV2 antigen. Anti-H. pylori immunostaining was seen in eleven cases, mainly in the antrum, on the mucosal surface and foveolar compartment. The association of the anti-PCV2 immunostaining with the glandular mucus-producing cells suggests a role for PCV2 as an additional factor for the swine ulcer development.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Pedroso P.M.O., Pescador C.A., Bandarra P.M., Raymundo D.L., Borba M.R., Wouters F., Bezerra Jr P.S. & Driemeier D. 2008. [Standardization of immunohistochemistry technique for detection of rabies virus in formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded tissue samples from central nervous system of cattle.] Padronização da técnica de imuno-histoquímica para raiva em amostras de tecido do sistema nervoso central de bovinos fixadas em formol e emblocadas em parafina. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(12):627-632. Setor de Patologia Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: davetpat@ufrgs.br For standardization of the rabies immunohistochemistry technique, five samples of central nervous system (CNS) of cattle naturally infected with rabies virus were examined. One polyclonal antibody and two monoclonal antibodies were used. The following reagents were evaluated for antigen retrieval: XIV protease, proteinase K and citrate buffer (pH 6.0) boiling at 100°C during 15 minutes in bain-marie. Detection of rabic antigen was possible with the three antibodies tested. The polyclonal antibody was superior to the monoclonal antibodies, demonstrating good results with the three antigen retrieval protocols. The highest intensity staining was obtained with the citrate buffer and heat. The immunohistochemistry technique demonstrated the presence of viral antigens in the cytoplasm of neurons, in form of aggregates or with round or oval shape. The antigens were found as single or multiples inclusion bodies in the neurons. Immunohistochemistry is a fast method that can be used in routine procedures in cases where rabies is suspected, especially when the brain is submitted to the laboratory as formalin-fixed fragments or when samples could not be immediately shipped. The technique is also useful for retrospective studies.

• Diseases of cattle infectious diseases diseases of the central nervous system rabies immunohistochemistry standardization

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Pedroso P.M.O., Pescador C.A., Bandarra P.M., Raymundo D.L., Borba M.R., Wouters F., Bezerra Jr P.S. & Driemeier D. 2008. [Standardization of immunohistochemistry technique for detection of rabies virus in formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded tissue samples from central nervous system of cattle.] Padronização da técnica de imuno-histoquímica para raiva em amostras de tecido do sistema nervoso central de bovinos fixadas em formol e emblocadas em parafina. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(12):627-632. Setor de Patologia Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: davetpat@ufrgs.br For standardization of the rabies immunohistochemistry technique, five samples of central nervous system (CNS) of cattle naturally infected with rabies virus were examined. One polyclonal antibody and two monoclonal antibodies were used. The following reagents were evaluated for antigen retrieval: XIV protease, proteinase K and citrate buffer (pH 6.0) boiling at 100°C during 15 minutes in bain-marie. Detection of rabic antigen was possible with the three antibodies tested. The polyclonal antibody was superior to the monoclonal antibodies, demonstrating good results with the three antigen retrieval protocols. The highest intensity staining was obtained with the citrate buffer and heat. The immunohistochemistry technique demonstrated the presence of viral antigens in the cytoplasm of neurons, in form of aggregates or with round or oval shape. The antigens were found as single or multiples inclusion bodies in the neurons. Immunohistochemistry is a fast method that can be used in routine procedures in cases where rabies is suspected, especially when the brain is submitted to the laboratory as formalin-fixed fragments or when samples could not be immediately shipped. The technique is also useful for retrospective studies.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Munerato M.S., Zanetti E.S., Marques J.A. & Duarte J.M.B. 2008. Effects of laparoscopy on the cardiorespiratory system of brown brocket deer (Mazama gouazoubira) anesthetized with ketamine/ xylazine/ midazolam combination and isoflurane. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(11):555-560. Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia Veterinária, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Via de Acesso Professor Paulo Donato Castellane s/n, Jaboticabal, SP 14884-900, Brazil. E-mail: marinamunerato@gmail.com Laparoscopy is not widely used as a tool to perform assisted reproduction techniques in South American cervids; thus, scarce information in literature is available regarding its effects and appropriate anesthetic protocols to perform it. This study evaluated the effect of laparoscopy on heart rate (HR), respiration rate (RR), saturation of oxyhemoglobin (SpO2) and rectal temperature (RT) of six female brown brocket deer (Mazama gouazoubira) anesthetized with ketamine (5mg/kg), xylazine (0.3mg/kg), midazolam (0.5mg/kg) combination i.v. and isoflurane. Twelve laparoscopies were performed and each animal was used twice with a 40-day interval. After anesthetized, the animals were placed in dorsal recumbency to perform laparoscopy procedure using abdominal CO2 insufflations (14.2 ± 2.39mmHg; M ± SE). The main events of the laparoscopy procedure were divided into three periods: animal without (P1) and with abdominal insufflation (P2) and abdominal insufflation with the hips raised at 45° (P3). As a control, the animals were anesthetized again 40 days after the last laparoscopy, and were maintained in a dorsal recumbency for the same average duration of the previous anesthesia and no laparoscopy procedure was conducted. The period of anesthesia for the controls was also divided into P1, P2, and P3 considering the average duration of these periods in previous laparoscopies performed. Data were analyzed through the (ANOVA) variance analysis followed by Tukey test and values at P<0.05 were considered significant. No significant differences were observed in the parameters evaluated at P1, P2 and P3 between the animals submitted to laparoscopy and control. However, the RR mean between P1 (38.8 ± 4.42) and P3 (32.7 ± 4.81); and the RT mean between the P1 (38.2°C ± 0.17), P2 (37.6°C ± 0.19) and P3 (37.0°C ± 0.21) varied significantly, independent of the laparoscopy. These data indicated that laparoscopy didn’t cause any significant alterations in the cardiorespiratory parameters evaluated, even though the anesthetic protocol used can cause a reduction in the RT contributing to development of hypothermia during anesthesia.

• Abdominal insufflation capnoperitoneum cervids inhalatory anesthesia

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Munerato M.S., Zanetti E.S., Marques J.A. & Duarte J.M.B. 2008. Effects of laparoscopy on the cardiorespiratory system of brown brocket deer (Mazama gouazoubira) anesthetized with ketamine/ xylazine/ midazolam combination and isoflurane. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(11):555-560. Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia Veterinária, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Via de Acesso Professor Paulo Donato Castellane s/n, Jaboticabal, SP 14884-900, Brazil. E-mail: marinamunerato@gmail.com Laparoscopy is not widely used as a tool to perform assisted reproduction techniques in South American cervids; thus, scarce information in literature is available regarding its effects and appropriate anesthetic protocols to perform it. This study evaluated the effect of laparoscopy on heart rate (HR), respiration rate (RR), saturation of oxyhemoglobin (SpO2) and rectal temperature (RT) of six female brown brocket deer (Mazama gouazoubira) anesthetized with ketamine (5mg/kg), xylazine (0.3mg/kg), midazolam (0.5mg/kg) combination i.v. and isoflurane. Twelve laparoscopies were performed and each animal was used twice with a 40-day interval. After anesthetized, the animals were placed in dorsal recumbency to perform laparoscopy procedure using abdominal CO2 insufflations (14.2 ± 2.39mmHg; M ± SE). The main events of the laparoscopy procedure were divided into three periods: animal without (P1) and with abdominal insufflation (P2) and abdominal insufflation with the hips raised at 45° (P3). As a control, the animals were anesthetized again 40 days after the last laparoscopy, and were maintained in a dorsal recumbency for the same average duration of the previous anesthesia and no laparoscopy procedure was conducted. The period of anesthesia for the controls was also divided into P1, P2, and P3 considering the average duration of these periods in previous laparoscopies performed. Data were analyzed through the (ANOVA) variance analysis followed by Tukey test and values at P<0.05 were considered significant. No significant differences were observed in the parameters evaluated at P1, P2 and P3 between the animals submitted to laparoscopy and control. However, the RR mean between P1 (38.8 ± 4.42) and P3 (32.7 ± 4.81); and the RT mean between the P1 (38.2°C ± 0.17), P2 (37.6°C ± 0.19) and P3 (37.0°C ± 0.21) varied significantly, independent of the laparoscopy. These data indicated that laparoscopy didn’t cause any significant alterations in the cardiorespiratory parameters evaluated, even though the anesthetic protocol used can cause a reduction in the RT contributing to development of hypothermia during anesthesia.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Santos G.C., Matuella G.A., Coraiola A.M., Silva L.C., Lange R.R. & Santin E. 2008. [Diseases of wild birds diagnosed at the Federal University of Paraná, Brazil (2003-2007).] Doenças de aves selvagens diagnosticadas na Universidade Federal do Paraná (2003-2007). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(11):565-570. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Campus do Setor de Ciências Agrárias, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Curitiba, PR 80035-050, Brazil. E-mail: santin@ufpr.br From 253 wild birds attended at the Wild Animal Ambulatory of the Veterinary Hospital, Paraná Federal University, between August 2003 and August 2006, 45 cases (17.8%) were related to the species Serinus canarius (Belgian Canary). Within these attended birds and its respective orders, most morbid conditions occurred with the Psittaciforme order and were caused by traumatism, in 45 cases (14.32%). Of these, 17 animals (30.91%) had bone fractures; the most common were on radius-ulna (17.65%). Other conditions were presence of ectoparasites (12.50%) and endoparasites (10.68%), respiratory disease (10.42%), dermatological ailments (6.51%), neoplasms (4.95%), ophthalmic illnesses (4.43%), gastrointestinal diseases (3.91%), cachexia (3.39%), neurological diseases (2.86%), self-mutilation (2.86%), obesity (2.34%), aggression by other animals (1.56%), nutritional deficiencies (1.30%), egg retention (1.04%), avian poxvirus (0.78%) and uric gout (0.52%), as well as there was clinical routine measures to be taken (7.55%). Traumas and illnesses were observed as the highest prevalence on the casuistic, which could be prevented by correct husbandry practices.

• Wild birds diseases casuistic

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Santos G.C., Matuella G.A., Coraiola A.M., Silva L.C., Lange R.R. & Santin E. 2008. [Diseases of wild birds diagnosed at the Federal University of Paraná, Brazil (2003-2007).] Doenças de aves selvagens diagnosticadas na Universidade Federal do Paraná (2003-2007). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(11):565-570. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Campus do Setor de Ciências Agrárias, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Curitiba, PR 80035-050, Brazil. E-mail: santin@ufpr.br From 253 wild birds attended at the Wild Animal Ambulatory of the Veterinary Hospital, Paraná Federal University, between August 2003 and August 2006, 45 cases (17.8%) were related to the species Serinus canarius (Belgian Canary). Within these attended birds and its respective orders, most morbid conditions occurred with the Psittaciforme order and were caused by traumatism, in 45 cases (14.32%). Of these, 17 animals (30.91%) had bone fractures; the most common were on radius-ulna (17.65%). Other conditions were presence of ectoparasites (12.50%) and endoparasites (10.68%), respiratory disease (10.42%), dermatological ailments (6.51%), neoplasms (4.95%), ophthalmic illnesses (4.43%), gastrointestinal diseases (3.91%), cachexia (3.39%), neurological diseases (2.86%), self-mutilation (2.86%), obesity (2.34%), aggression by other animals (1.56%), nutritional deficiencies (1.30%), egg retention (1.04%), avian poxvirus (0.78%) and uric gout (0.52%), as well as there was clinical routine measures to be taken (7.55%). Traumas and illnesses were observed as the highest prevalence on the casuistic, which could be prevented by correct husbandry practices.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Peixoto P.V., Ribeiro C.T., Bezerra Jr P.S., Driemeier D. & França T.N. 2008. Proliferative enteropathy (Lawsonia intracellularis) outbreak in rabbits in Brazil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(10):447-451. Departamento de Nutrição Animal e Pastagem, Instituto de Zootecnia, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil. E-mail: pfpeixoto@terra.com.br An outbreak of Lawsonia intracellularis infection in rabbits, which occurred in 1988 in Rio de Janeiro state, Brazil, is reported. The disease had an acute course (24-48 hours) with clinical signs characterized by brownish or green diarrhea and dehydration. Occasionally, the animals died one day after the onset of diarrhea, without showing any other clinical signs. At necropsy, the ileum was prominent, firm and had a thickened wall; it was dilated in the caudal direction and had a somewhat reticulated appearance, perceptible through the serosa. The thickened mucous membrane had finely corrugated aspect and a shiny surface. The ileocecal valve and surrounding areas were slightly edematous and irregular. The Peyer’s patches were sometimes more evident. There was moderate enlargement of the mesenteric lymph nodes. The histological examination revealed different degrees of hyperplasia of the epithelial cells of intestinal crypts consisting of poorly differentiated, hyperchromatic cells with high mitotic index, arranged in a pseudostratified layer which, in some cases, reached the apical portions of the villi. The inflammatory infiltrate between the hyperplastic epithelial cells was composed of lymphocytes, plasma cells, macrophages, some eosinophils and globular leukocytes. Silver impregnation revealed large numbers of bacteria with morphology of the genus Lawsonia in the apical pole of cryptal enterocytes. These bacteria reacted positively to a Lawsonia intracellularis polyclonal antibody by the avidin-biotin immunohistochemistry method.

• Lawsonia intracellularis proliferative enteropathy rabbits Brazil

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Peixoto P.V., Ribeiro C.T., Bezerra Jr P.S., Driemeier D. & França T.N. 2008. Proliferative enteropathy (Lawsonia intracellularis) outbreak in rabbits in Brazil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(10):447-451. Departamento de Nutrição Animal e Pastagem, Instituto de Zootecnia, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil. E-mail: pfpeixoto@terra.com.br An outbreak of Lawsonia intracellularis infection in rabbits, which occurred in 1988 in Rio de Janeiro state, Brazil, is reported. The disease had an acute course (24-48 hours) with clinical signs characterized by brownish or green diarrhea and dehydration. Occasionally, the animals died one day after the onset of diarrhea, without showing any other clinical signs. At necropsy, the ileum was prominent, firm and had a thickened wall; it was dilated in the caudal direction and had a somewhat reticulated appearance, perceptible through the serosa. The thickened mucous membrane had finely corrugated aspect and a shiny surface. The ileocecal valve and surrounding areas were slightly edematous and irregular. The Peyer’s patches were sometimes more evident. There was moderate enlargement of the mesenteric lymph nodes. The histological examination revealed different degrees of hyperplasia of the epithelial cells of intestinal crypts consisting of poorly differentiated, hyperchromatic cells with high mitotic index, arranged in a pseudostratified layer which, in some cases, reached the apical portions of the villi. The inflammatory infiltrate between the hyperplastic epithelial cells was composed of lymphocytes, plasma cells, macrophages, some eosinophils and globular leukocytes. Silver impregnation revealed large numbers of bacteria with morphology of the genus Lawsonia in the apical pole of cryptal enterocytes. These bacteria reacted positively to a Lawsonia intracellularis polyclonal antibody by the avidin-biotin immunohistochemistry method.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Feitosa F.L.F., Shimamura M.G., Roberto T., Mendes L.C.N., Peiró J.R., Feres F,C., Bovino, F., Perri S.H.V. & Meireles M.V. 2008. [Importance of Cryptospori-dium spp. as a cause of diarrhea in calves.] Importância de Cryptosporidium spp. como causa de diarréia em bezerros. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(10):452-456. Curso de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Campus de Araçatuba, Rua Clóvis Pestana 793, Araçatuba, SP 16050-680, Brazil. E-mail: leydsonf@fmva.unesp.br The aim of this research was to evaluate the shedding of Cryptosporidium spp. oocysts in fecal samples from 14 calves from one dairy farm, from birth until 60 days old and from cows until eight weeks after parturition. The higher percentage of oocysts excreted was observed in 7-day-old calves. In the post-partum period 43.7% of cows were positive for Cryptosporidium oocysts. Further analyses were accomplished in 57 calves from another 32 milk farms, previously known as positive for Cryptosporidium, through oocysts fecal screening and clinical signs analyses until calves were 30 days old. Fecal samples from all animals that presented diarrhea were screened for the presence of bacteria, virus (Rotavirus and Coronavirus ) and protozoa (Eimeria spp.).

• Calves cows cryptosporidiosis Cryptosporidium spp

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Feitosa F.L.F., Shimamura M.G., Roberto T., Mendes L.C.N., Peiró J.R., Feres F,C., Bovino, F., Perri S.H.V. & Meireles M.V. 2008. [Importance of Cryptospori-dium spp. as a cause of diarrhea in calves.] Importância de Cryptosporidium spp. como causa de diarréia em bezerros. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(10):452-456. Curso de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Campus de Araçatuba, Rua Clóvis Pestana 793, Araçatuba, SP 16050-680, Brazil. E-mail: leydsonf@fmva.unesp.br The aim of this research was to evaluate the shedding of Cryptosporidium spp. oocysts in fecal samples from 14 calves from one dairy farm, from birth until 60 days old and from cows until eight weeks after parturition. The higher percentage of oocysts excreted was observed in 7-day-old calves. In the post-partum period 43.7% of cows were positive for Cryptosporidium oocysts. Further analyses were accomplished in 57 calves from another 32 milk farms, previously known as positive for Cryptosporidium, through oocysts fecal screening and clinical signs analyses until calves were 30 days old. Fecal samples from all animals that presented diarrhea were screened for the presence of bacteria, virus (Rotavirus and Coronavirus ) and protozoa (Eimeria spp.).

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Arenhart S., Silva L.F., Henzel A., Ferreira R., Weiblen R. & Flores E.F. 2008. [Fetal protection against bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) in pregnant cows previously immunized with an experimental attenuated vaccine.] Proteção fetal contra o vírus da diarréia viral bovina (BVDV) em vacas prenhes previamente imunizadas com uma vacina experimental atenuada. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(10):461-470. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Centro de Ciências Rurais, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: flores@ccr.ufsm.br This paper reports the antibody response and fetal protection in pregnant cows conferred by an experimental vaccine containing two attenuated strains of bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV-1 and BVDV-2). Cows (n=19) were vaccinated twice, with a 34-days-interval, with the experimental vaccine and together with non-vaccinated controls (n=18), were mated and challenged between days 60 and 90 of gestation by intranasal inoculation of four heterologous BVDV-1 and BVDV-2 isolates. The antibody response was evaluated by serum-neutralization tests performed at different intervals after vaccination (days 34, 78 and 138 post-vaccination [pv]). Fetal protection was monitored by ultrassonographic and clinical examination of the dams and fetuses during the rest of gestation; and through virological and serological examination of pre-colostral blood obtained from aborted and/or recently born fetuses/calves. At the day of challenge (day 138 pv), all vaccinated cows had neutralizing antibodies in high titers against BVDV-1 (1,280- ³10,240), and with one exception (titer 20), presented moderate to high titers to BVDV-2 (80-1,280). At the end of the monitoring, only three out of 18 control cows (16.6%) delivered healthy, virus-free calves. Fifteen non-vaccinated cows (83.3%) presented signs of fetal infection and/or had reproductive losses. Seven of these cows (38.8%) delivered virus-positive calves; five were healthy and survived (27.7%); two were premature or weak and lasted three and 15 days, respectively. The other eight cows (44.4%) aborted between day 30 post-challenge and the parturition; or delivered premature or stillbirth calves. In contrast, 17 out of 19 (89.4%) vaccinated cows delivery virus-free, healthy calves. One vaccinated cow aborted around day 130 post-challenge, yet this fetus could not be examined for the presence of virus. Another cow delivered a virus-positive calf (5.2%). In summary, the experimental vaccine induced adequate antibody titers in most animals and the immunological response induced by vaccination was able to prevent fetal infection and reproductive losses upon challenge with a pool of heterologous BVDV isolates. Hence, this experimental vaccine may be an attractive alternative for the prevention of reproductive losses associated with BVDV infection.

• Bovine viral diarrhea virus BVDV experimental vaccine fetal protection

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Arenhart S., Silva L.F., Henzel A., Ferreira R., Weiblen R. & Flores E.F. 2008. [Fetal protection against bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) in pregnant cows previously immunized with an experimental attenuated vaccine.] Proteção fetal contra o vírus da diarréia viral bovina (BVDV) em vacas prenhes previamente imunizadas com uma vacina experimental atenuada. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(10):461-470. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Centro de Ciências Rurais, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: flores@ccr.ufsm.br This paper reports the antibody response and fetal protection in pregnant cows conferred by an experimental vaccine containing two attenuated strains of bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV-1 and BVDV-2). Cows (n=19) were vaccinated twice, with a 34-days-interval, with the experimental vaccine and together with non-vaccinated controls (n=18), were mated and challenged between days 60 and 90 of gestation by intranasal inoculation of four heterologous BVDV-1 and BVDV-2 isolates. The antibody response was evaluated by serum-neutralization tests performed at different intervals after vaccination (days 34, 78 and 138 post-vaccination [pv]). Fetal protection was monitored by ultrassonographic and clinical examination of the dams and fetuses during the rest of gestation; and through virological and serological examination of pre-colostral blood obtained from aborted and/or recently born fetuses/calves. At the day of challenge (day 138 pv), all vaccinated cows had neutralizing antibodies in high titers against BVDV-1 (1,280- ³10,240), and with one exception (titer 20), presented moderate to high titers to BVDV-2 (80-1,280). At the end of the monitoring, only three out of 18 control cows (16.6%) delivered healthy, virus-free calves. Fifteen non-vaccinated cows (83.3%) presented signs of fetal infection and/or had reproductive losses. Seven of these cows (38.8%) delivered virus-positive calves; five were healthy and survived (27.7%); two were premature or weak and lasted three and 15 days, respectively. The other eight cows (44.4%) aborted between day 30 post-challenge and the parturition; or delivered premature or stillbirth calves. In contrast, 17 out of 19 (89.4%) vaccinated cows delivery virus-free, healthy calves. One vaccinated cow aborted around day 130 post-challenge, yet this fetus could not be examined for the presence of virus. Another cow delivered a virus-positive calf (5.2%). In summary, the experimental vaccine induced adequate antibody titers in most animals and the immunological response induced by vaccination was able to prevent fetal infection and reproductive losses upon challenge with a pool of heterologous BVDV isolates. Hence, this experimental vaccine may be an attractive alternative for the prevention of reproductive losses associated with BVDV infection.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Asanome W., Koller F.L., Nottar E., Carregaro F.B., Corrêa A.M.R., Zlotowski P., Driemeier D. & Barcellos D.E.S.N. 2008. [Association between bacterial otitis and porcine circovirus 2 (PCV2) infection in pigs.] Associação entre otites bacterianas e infecção pelo circovírus suíno tipo 2 (PCV2) em suínos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(10):471-476. Setor de Suínos, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: davidbarcellos@terra.com.br The occurrence and bacteriology of purulent otitis in groups of pigs affected by three different clinical conditions are described: postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome (PMWS), depressed growth (attrition) and normal growth (control). A total of 385 animals, 60-130 days of age, were examined. Diagnosis of PMWS was confirmed by the presence of clinical signs and pathological findings compatible with the disease, and through detection of viral antigens in tissues by immunohistochemistry. From 242 pigs with PMWS, 57 (23.5%) showed purulent lesions in the middle ear. Among 119 pigs with attrition, only 1 (0.7%) presented the lesion. In 24 control pigs, middle ear lesions were not detected. The most frequently isolated agents from the lesions were Arcanobacterium pyogenes (43%), á–hemolytic Streptococci (37.2%) and Pasteurella multocida (27.9 %) out of 86 materials. The frequent occurrence of purulent lesions in the middle ear of PMWS affected pigs suggests that PCV2 infection may increase the susceptibility to bacterial otitis. The low occurrence of this disease in piglets with attrition suggests that otitis does not represent a significant cause for depressed growth in pigs from growing and finishing age. The isolation of A. pyogenes, á-hemolytic Streptococci and P. multocida from most of the lesions emphasizes the importance of these organisms as causal agents of otitis media in swine.

• Otitis media PCV2 PMWS PCVAD growth depression attrition bacteriology swine

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Asanome W., Koller F.L., Nottar E., Carregaro F.B., Corrêa A.M.R., Zlotowski P., Driemeier D. & Barcellos D.E.S.N. 2008. [Association between bacterial otitis and porcine circovirus 2 (PCV2) infection in pigs.] Associação entre otites bacterianas e infecção pelo circovírus suíno tipo 2 (PCV2) em suínos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(10):471-476. Setor de Suínos, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: davidbarcellos@terra.com.br The occurrence and bacteriology of purulent otitis in groups of pigs affected by three different clinical conditions are described: postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome (PMWS), depressed growth (attrition) and normal growth (control). A total of 385 animals, 60-130 days of age, were examined. Diagnosis of PMWS was confirmed by the presence of clinical signs and pathological findings compatible with the disease, and through detection of viral antigens in tissues by immunohistochemistry. From 242 pigs with PMWS, 57 (23.5%) showed purulent lesions in the middle ear. Among 119 pigs with attrition, only 1 (0.7%) presented the lesion. In 24 control pigs, middle ear lesions were not detected. The most frequently isolated agents from the lesions were Arcanobacterium pyogenes (43%), á–hemolytic Streptococci (37.2%) and Pasteurella multocida (27.9 %) out of 86 materials. The frequent occurrence of purulent lesions in the middle ear of PMWS affected pigs suggests that PCV2 infection may increase the susceptibility to bacterial otitis. The low occurrence of this disease in piglets with attrition suggests that otitis does not represent a significant cause for depressed growth in pigs from growing and finishing age. The isolation of A. pyogenes, á-hemolytic Streptococci and P. multocida from most of the lesions emphasizes the importance of these organisms as causal agents of otitis media in swine.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Anjos B.L., Irigoyen L.F., Fighera R.A., Gomes A.D., Kommers G.D & Barros C.S.L. 2008. [Acute poisoning by bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum) in cattle in central Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.] Intoxicação aguda por samambaia (Pteridium aquilinum) em bovinos na Região Central do Rio Grande do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(10):501-507. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br Cases of acute poisoning by bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum) in cattle from 10 small farms of seven municipalities of the Central Region of Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil, were reviewed. The study encompassed 6,256 necropsies of cattle considering a 43-year period and included 15 necropsies of cattle dying from acute bracken poisoning. Morbidity and mortality were 17.9% and lethality was virtually 100%. In 40% of the farms the disease occurred in small outbreaks affecting several cattle per farm and in 60% only one bovine was affected in each farm. Main clinical signs include fever (40-42°C), apathy, drooling, and hemorrhages; the latter were mainly from the gums, nostrils, and gastrointestinal tract. Multiple petechiae were observed in several mucosae and in the skin. Occasionally hematuria and blood in the milk were reported. The disease was invariably fatal after a course of approximately two days. Hematological changes included severe neutropenia, non-regenerative normocytic normochromic anemia and thrombocytopenia. Necropsy findings include hemorrhages o varying degrees in several organs and infarcts in the liver. Both hemorrhages and hepatic infarcts were confirmed histologically; clusters of bacterial rods and thrombosed vessels were associated with the infarcts. Marked bone marrow aplasia was a consistent finding in the four cases in which the marrow was evaluated.

• Diseases of cattle poisonous plants Pteridium aquilinum bracken fern hemorrhagic disorders pathology

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Anjos B.L., Irigoyen L.F., Fighera R.A., Gomes A.D., Kommers G.D & Barros C.S.L. 2008. [Acute poisoning by bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum) in cattle in central Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.] Intoxicação aguda por samambaia (Pteridium aquilinum) em bovinos na Região Central do Rio Grande do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(10):501-507. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br Cases of acute poisoning by bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum) in cattle from 10 small farms of seven municipalities of the Central Region of Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil, were reviewed. The study encompassed 6,256 necropsies of cattle considering a 43-year period and included 15 necropsies of cattle dying from acute bracken poisoning. Morbidity and mortality were 17.9% and lethality was virtually 100%. In 40% of the farms the disease occurred in small outbreaks affecting several cattle per farm and in 60% only one bovine was affected in each farm. Main clinical signs include fever (40-42°C), apathy, drooling, and hemorrhages; the latter were mainly from the gums, nostrils, and gastrointestinal tract. Multiple petechiae were observed in several mucosae and in the skin. Occasionally hematuria and blood in the milk were reported. The disease was invariably fatal after a course of approximately two days. Hematological changes included severe neutropenia, non-regenerative normocytic normochromic anemia and thrombocytopenia. Necropsy findings include hemorrhages o varying degrees in several organs and infarcts in the liver. Both hemorrhages and hepatic infarcts were confirmed histologically; clusters of bacterial rods and thrombosed vessels were associated with the infarcts. Marked bone marrow aplasia was a consistent finding in the four cases in which the marrow was evaluated.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Teixeira T.F., Holz C.L., Caixeta S.P.M.B., Dezen D., Cibulski S.P., Silva J.R., Rosa J.C.A., Schmidt E., Ferreira J.C., Batista H.B.C.R., Caldas E., Franco A.C. & Roehe P.M. 2008. [Rabies diagnosis in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, from 1985 to 2007.] Diagnóstico de raiva no Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil, de 1985 a 2007. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(10):515-520. Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor, Fepagro-Saúde Animal, Cx. Postal 2076, Porto Alegre, RS 90001-970, Brazil. E-mail: proehe@ufrgs.br The results of 23 years of rabies diagnosis carried out at the Veterinary Research Institute Desidério Finamor, in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, RS, Brazil, are reported. From 1985 to 2007, a total of 23.460 specimens were examined, corresponding to 95% of the total number of samples submitted to rabies laboratory diagnosis notified within the state. Diagnostic methods included standard techniques such as the fluorescent antibody test (FAT) and mouse inoculation test (MIT). No cases of human rabies occurred in the period. Rabies virus (RV) was detected in 739 specimens (3.1%), from which 656 (88.7%) were from cattle. The virus was also identified in specimens from 23 dogs (3.1%), 21 horses (2.9%), 29 bats (4.0%), 4 cats (0.5%), 3 sheep (0.4%), 2 pigs (0.27%) and a wild animal of undetermined species (0.13%). The last case of rabies associated with a canine variant was diagnosed in 1988. Two cases of rabies associated with bat variant viruses were reported, in a domestic cat (2001) and in a dog (2007). In cattle, a marked tendency to a decrease in the number of cases was detected in the examined period. In contrast, an increase in the number of cases in haematophagous as well as in non haematophagous bats is noticed. However, as the number of bat specimens submitted for diagnosis has increased, this finding most likely reflects a higher degree of awareness on the possible role for bats in the rabies transmission cycle, rather than any particular changes on the virus or its hosts.

• Rabies epidemiology diagnosis incidence

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Teixeira T.F., Holz C.L., Caixeta S.P.M.B., Dezen D., Cibulski S.P., Silva J.R., Rosa J.C.A., Schmidt E., Ferreira J.C., Batista H.B.C.R., Caldas E., Franco A.C. & Roehe P.M. 2008. [Rabies diagnosis in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, from 1985 to 2007.] Diagnóstico de raiva no Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil, de 1985 a 2007. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(10):515-520. Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor, Fepagro-Saúde Animal, Cx. Postal 2076, Porto Alegre, RS 90001-970, Brazil. E-mail: proehe@ufrgs.br The results of 23 years of rabies diagnosis carried out at the Veterinary Research Institute Desidério Finamor, in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, RS, Brazil, are reported. From 1985 to 2007, a total of 23.460 specimens were examined, corresponding to 95% of the total number of samples submitted to rabies laboratory diagnosis notified within the state. Diagnostic methods included standard techniques such as the fluorescent antibody test (FAT) and mouse inoculation test (MIT). No cases of human rabies occurred in the period. Rabies virus (RV) was detected in 739 specimens (3.1%), from which 656 (88.7%) were from cattle. The virus was also identified in specimens from 23 dogs (3.1%), 21 horses (2.9%), 29 bats (4.0%), 4 cats (0.5%), 3 sheep (0.4%), 2 pigs (0.27%) and a wild animal of undetermined species (0.13%). The last case of rabies associated with a canine variant was diagnosed in 1988. Two cases of rabies associated with bat variant viruses were reported, in a domestic cat (2001) and in a dog (2007). In cattle, a marked tendency to a decrease in the number of cases was detected in the examined period. In contrast, an increase in the number of cases in haematophagous as well as in non haematophagous bats is noticed. However, as the number of bat specimens submitted for diagnosis has increased, this finding most likely reflects a higher degree of awareness on the possible role for bats in the rabies transmission cycle, rather than any particular changes on the virus or its hosts.