PESQUISA VETERINÁRIA BRASILEIRA

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Almeida R.F.C., Madruga C.R., Soares C.O., Fernandes M.C., Carvalho N.M., Jorge K.S.G. & Osório A.L.A.R. 2006. [Specific immune response of cattle to experimental sensibilization by inactivated Mycobacterium bovis and Mycobacterium avium.] Resposta imune específica de bovinos experimentalmente sensibilizados com inóculos inativados de Mycobacterium bovis e Mycobacterium avium. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(4):195-200. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária da Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, Cidade Universitária, Campo Grande, MS 79070-900, Brazil. E-mail: analudmv@nin.ufms.br The presumptive diagnosis of bovine tuberculosis is based on analysis of the immune response to micobacterial antigens. This experimental simulation of sensibilization by Mycobacterium bovis and Mycobacterium avium in cattle aimed to verify the immune response by both the cervical comparative test and the evolution of the specific production of gamma-interferon, and also to identify interference of unspecified reactions by M. avium on the test results. The results support that the experimental animals started a response of delayed hypersensitivity to the inactivated bacilli, and that both diagnostic tests for bovine tuberculosis were efficient for the identification of animals sensitized with M. bovis and for discrimination of reactions generated by inoculation of cattle with M. avium.

• Mycobacterium bovis Mycobacterium avium gamma-interferon tuberculin immune response

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Almeida R.F.C., Madruga C.R., Soares C.O., Fernandes M.C., Carvalho N.M., Jorge K.S.G. & Osório A.L.A.R. 2006. [Specific immune response of cattle to experimental sensibilization by inactivated Mycobacterium bovis and Mycobacterium avium.] Resposta imune específica de bovinos experimentalmente sensibilizados com inóculos inativados de Mycobacterium bovis e Mycobacterium avium. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(4):195-200. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária da Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, Cidade Universitária, Campo Grande, MS 79070-900, Brazil. E-mail: analudmv@nin.ufms.br The presumptive diagnosis of bovine tuberculosis is based on analysis of the immune response to micobacterial antigens. This experimental simulation of sensibilization by Mycobacterium bovis and Mycobacterium avium in cattle aimed to verify the immune response by both the cervical comparative test and the evolution of the specific production of gamma-interferon, and also to identify interference of unspecified reactions by M. avium on the test results. The results support that the experimental animals started a response of delayed hypersensitivity to the inactivated bacilli, and that both diagnostic tests for bovine tuberculosis were efficient for the identification of animals sensitized with M. bovis and for discrimination of reactions generated by inoculation of cattle with M. avium.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Nóbrega Jr J.E., Riet-Correa F., Medeiros R.M.T. & Dantas A.F.M. 2006. [Poisoning by Sorghum halepense (Poaceae) in cattle in the Brazilian semiarid.] Intoxicação por Sorghum halepense em bovinos no semi-árido. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(4):201-204. Hospital Veterinário, CSTR, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Campus de Patos, 58700-000 Patos, PB, Brazil. E-mail: franklin.riet@pesquisador.com.br An outbreak of poisoning by Sorghum halepense (L.) Pers. in cattle in the Brazilian semiarid is reported. Nine cattle were introduced 15 days after the first rains into a paddock where the plant was sprouting and had 25-30cm high. Clinical signs of dyspnea, anxiety, muscular tremors and incoordination appeared 15 minutes after the animals began to graze. Two of them died within about 3 hours. The others recovered. Cyanotic mucosa, dark muscles, lung edema and hemorrhages, and leaves of the plant in the rumen were observed at necropsy. The plant was positive for the picrosodic paper test. S. halepense from another farm of occurrence of the poisoning was transplanted into two pots. The picrosodic paper test was performed fortnightly in the plants growing in one of them. The plant was positive for cyanide in all growth stages; during the first 45 days the test was positive within 1 minute, but after day 60 within 3 minutes. Thirty days after the plant had been transplanted into one of the pots, it was administered to a goat at a dose of 11.8g/kg, causing clinical signs of HCN poisoning. The animal recovered after the intravenous administration of 5mL/10kg body weight of a 20% sodium thiosulfate solution. In the Brazilian semiarid S. halepense is frequently found invading the border of ponds and irrigated crops, and is used as forage during the dry season.

• Poisonous plants Sorghum halepense cyanogenic glycosides plant poisoning cattle

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Nóbrega Jr J.E., Riet-Correa F., Medeiros R.M.T. & Dantas A.F.M. 2006. [Poisoning by Sorghum halepense (Poaceae) in cattle in the Brazilian semiarid.] Intoxicação por Sorghum halepense em bovinos no semi-árido. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(4):201-204. Hospital Veterinário, CSTR, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Campus de Patos, 58700-000 Patos, PB, Brazil. E-mail: franklin.riet@pesquisador.com.br An outbreak of poisoning by Sorghum halepense (L.) Pers. in cattle in the Brazilian semiarid is reported. Nine cattle were introduced 15 days after the first rains into a paddock where the plant was sprouting and had 25-30cm high. Clinical signs of dyspnea, anxiety, muscular tremors and incoordination appeared 15 minutes after the animals began to graze. Two of them died within about 3 hours. The others recovered. Cyanotic mucosa, dark muscles, lung edema and hemorrhages, and leaves of the plant in the rumen were observed at necropsy. The plant was positive for the picrosodic paper test. S. halepense from another farm of occurrence of the poisoning was transplanted into two pots. The picrosodic paper test was performed fortnightly in the plants growing in one of them. The plant was positive for cyanide in all growth stages; during the first 45 days the test was positive within 1 minute, but after day 60 within 3 minutes. Thirty days after the plant had been transplanted into one of the pots, it was administered to a goat at a dose of 11.8g/kg, causing clinical signs of HCN poisoning. The animal recovered after the intravenous administration of 5mL/10kg body weight of a 20% sodium thiosulfate solution. In the Brazilian semiarid S. halepense is frequently found invading the border of ponds and irrigated crops, and is used as forage during the dry season.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Cortez A., Heinemann M.B., Castro A.M.M.G., Soares M.S, Pinto A.M.V., Alfieri A.A., Flores E.F., Leite R.C. & Richtzenhain L.J. 2006. Genetic characterization of Brazilian bovine viral diarrhea virus isolates by partial nucleotide sequencing of the 5’-UTR region. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(4):211-216. Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, Cidade Universitária, São Paulo, SP 05508-000, Brazil. E-mail: leonardo@usp.br Nineteen isolates of bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) from Brazil were genetically characterized through partial nucleotide sequencing and analysis of the 5’UTR region. The isolates were grouped as BVDV-1 (11/19), BVDV-2 (6/19) or “atypical” pestivirus (2/19). Among the BVDV-1, eight isolates were classified as subgenotype BVDV-1a, whereas most (4 out of 6) BVDV-2 belonged to subgenotype 2b. Two isolates from aborted fetuses were not classified into any genetic group, being considered atypical BVDVs. Genetic diversity among Brazilian BVDV isolates may be responsible for vaccination and diag-nostic failure and therefore may influence the control strategies for BVDV infection in the country.

• BVDV-1 BVDV-2 Pestivirus phylogenetic analysis

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Cortez A., Heinemann M.B., Castro A.M.M.G., Soares M.S, Pinto A.M.V., Alfieri A.A., Flores E.F., Leite R.C. & Richtzenhain L.J. 2006. Genetic characterization of Brazilian bovine viral diarrhea virus isolates by partial nucleotide sequencing of the 5’-UTR region. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(4):211-216. Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, Cidade Universitária, São Paulo, SP 05508-000, Brazil. E-mail: leonardo@usp.br Nineteen isolates of bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) from Brazil were genetically characterized through partial nucleotide sequencing and analysis of the 5’UTR region. The isolates were grouped as BVDV-1 (11/19), BVDV-2 (6/19) or “atypical” pestivirus (2/19). Among the BVDV-1, eight isolates were classified as subgenotype BVDV-1a, whereas most (4 out of 6) BVDV-2 belonged to subgenotype 2b. Two isolates from aborted fetuses were not classified into any genetic group, being considered atypical BVDVs. Genetic diversity among Brazilian BVDV isolates may be responsible for vaccination and diag-nostic failure and therefore may influence the control strategies for BVDV infection in the country.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Silva D.M., Riet-Correa F., Medeiros R.M.T. & Oliveira O.F. 2006. [Toxic plants for livestock in the western and eastern Seridó, state of Rio Grande do Norte, in the Brazilian semiarid.] Plantas tóxicas para ruminantes no Seridó Ocidental e Oriental do Rio Grande do Norte. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(4):223-236. Hospital Veterinário, CSTR, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Campus de Patos, 58700-000 Patos, PB, Brazil. E-mail: franklin.riet@pesquisador.com.br To determine the occurrence of plant poisoning in the Western and Eastern Seridó regions of the state of Rio Grande do Norte, 82 persons including farmers, agronomists and veterinarians were interviewed. The two more important toxic plants are Ipomoea asarifolia, which causes nervous signs in sheep, goats and cattle, and Aspidosperma pyrifolium, leading to abortion in goats, sheep and cattle. The abortive properties of this plant had been demonstrated experimentally in goats, but not in sheep and cattle. Some farmers mentioned the poisoning by A. pyrifolium as a cause of nervous signs in equidae and cattle. Poisoning by cyanogenic plants including Manihot spp, Anadenanthera colubrina var. cebil (=Piptadenia macrocarpa), Sorghum bicolor and Sorghum halepense are important in the region. Important is also poisoning by Prosopis juliflora in cattle and with less frequency in goats, poisoning by Crotalaria retusa in horses, sheep and cattle, and by Mascagnia rigida in cattle. Poisoning by Brachiaria decumbens and Enterolobium contortisiliquum is sporadic. Other less important toxic plants in the region are Indigofera suffruticosa, Ipomoea carnea, and Ricinus communis. Some farmers reported poisoning by Marsdenia sp affecting sheep and cattle, and also a group of swine fed with the roots of the plant; the leaves and the roots are experimentally toxic to ruminants causing nervous signs, without histologic lesions. Another poisoning demonstrated experimentally is caused by Tephrosia cinerea and results in ascitis with hepatic fibrosis in sheep. Six farmers reported poisoning by Nerium oleander, always in cattle that had access to the shrub after been cut, mixed or not with other plants. Farmers mentioned also poisoning by other plants with unknown toxicity, including Paullinia sp, Passiflora sp, Dalechampia sp, Portulaca oleracea, Luffa acutangula, Cereus sp, Leersia hexandra, and Stemodia maritima. Echinochloa polystachya and Pennisetum purpureum, which cause nitrite poisoning were mentioned by some farmers as cause of cattle mortalities. One farmer mentioned an outbreak of poisoning in cattle and goats by Dieffenbachia picta which had been cut and left to the animals.

• Toxic plants ruminants semiarid region Rio Grande do Norte

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Silva D.M., Riet-Correa F., Medeiros R.M.T. & Oliveira O.F. 2006. [Toxic plants for livestock in the western and eastern Seridó, state of Rio Grande do Norte, in the Brazilian semiarid.] Plantas tóxicas para ruminantes no Seridó Ocidental e Oriental do Rio Grande do Norte. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(4):223-236. Hospital Veterinário, CSTR, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Campus de Patos, 58700-000 Patos, PB, Brazil. E-mail: franklin.riet@pesquisador.com.br To determine the occurrence of plant poisoning in the Western and Eastern Seridó regions of the state of Rio Grande do Norte, 82 persons including farmers, agronomists and veterinarians were interviewed. The two more important toxic plants are Ipomoea asarifolia, which causes nervous signs in sheep, goats and cattle, and Aspidosperma pyrifolium, leading to abortion in goats, sheep and cattle. The abortive properties of this plant had been demonstrated experimentally in goats, but not in sheep and cattle. Some farmers mentioned the poisoning by A. pyrifolium as a cause of nervous signs in equidae and cattle. Poisoning by cyanogenic plants including Manihot spp, Anadenanthera colubrina var. cebil (=Piptadenia macrocarpa), Sorghum bicolor and Sorghum halepense are important in the region. Important is also poisoning by Prosopis juliflora in cattle and with less frequency in goats, poisoning by Crotalaria retusa in horses, sheep and cattle, and by Mascagnia rigida in cattle. Poisoning by Brachiaria decumbens and Enterolobium contortisiliquum is sporadic. Other less important toxic plants in the region are Indigofera suffruticosa, Ipomoea carnea, and Ricinus communis. Some farmers reported poisoning by Marsdenia sp affecting sheep and cattle, and also a group of swine fed with the roots of the plant; the leaves and the roots are experimentally toxic to ruminants causing nervous signs, without histologic lesions. Another poisoning demonstrated experimentally is caused by Tephrosia cinerea and results in ascitis with hepatic fibrosis in sheep. Six farmers reported poisoning by Nerium oleander, always in cattle that had access to the shrub after been cut, mixed or not with other plants. Farmers mentioned also poisoning by other plants with unknown toxicity, including Paullinia sp, Passiflora sp, Dalechampia sp, Portulaca oleracea, Luffa acutangula, Cereus sp, Leersia hexandra, and Stemodia maritima. Echinochloa polystachya and Pennisetum purpureum, which cause nitrite poisoning were mentioned by some farmers as cause of cattle mortalities. One farmer mentioned an outbreak of poisoning in cattle and goats by Dieffenbachia picta which had been cut and left to the animals.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Almeida M.B., Tortelli F.P., Riet-Correa B., Ferreira J.L.M., Soares M.P., Farias N.A.R., Riet-Correa F. & Schild A.L. 2006. [Tick fever in southern Brazil: a retrospective study of 1978-2005.] Tristeza parasitária bovina na região sul do Rio Grande do Sul: estudo retrospectivo de 1978-2005. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(4):236-242. 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 A retrospective study of tick fever was made, which occurred from 1978-2005 in southern Rio Grande do Sul in the influence area of the Regional Diagnostic Laboratory of the Federal University of Pelotas. From 4,884 cattle specimens, sent by practitioners or which were from necropsies performed at the Diagnostic Laboratory, 231 (4.7%) were diagnosed as tick fever. Data from 221 of those outbreaks were analyzed. Ninety one (41.1%) outbreaks were caused by Babesia bovis, 11 (4.9%) by Babesia bigemina, and 65 (29.41%) by Anaplasma marginale. In other 33 (14.93%) outbreaks of babesiosis there is no information if the disease was caused by B. bovis or B. bigemina, and 21 (9.5%) outbreaks were caused by mixed infection of A. marginale and B. bovis or B. bigemina. Mean morbidity, mortality, and letality rates in 149 outbreaks were 11.17%, 6.81%, and 70.04%, respectively. Most outbreaks occurred during summer (January-March) and autumn (April-June), mainly in 1 to 3-year-old cattle. Clinical signs were depression, weakness, fallen ears, fever, and weight loss. Low packed cell volume values were always found. Hemoglobinury was observed in babesiosis. Neurological signs characterized by gait alterations, muscular tremors, aggressiveness and falling down with tonic and clonic convulsions were observed in babesiosis by B. bovis. The main gross lesions were anemia, jaundice, splenomegaly, hepatomegaly, yellow liver and cardiac hemorrhages. Hemoglobinury was observed in babesiosis, and congestion of the cerebral cortex in babesiosis by B. bovis. It is concluded that B. bovis is the main agent causing thick fever in southern Rio Grande do Sul. In that region with a cattle population of 2,630,000 heads the annual losses due to tick fever can be estimated in 6,220 cattle or US$ 1,623,000.00. Preventive measures to diminish tick fever losses in the region are necessary.

• Parasitic diseases tick fever epidemiology Babesia bovis Babesia bigemina Anaplasma marginale

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Almeida M.B., Tortelli F.P., Riet-Correa B., Ferreira J.L.M., Soares M.P., Farias N.A.R., Riet-Correa F. & Schild A.L. 2006. [Tick fever in southern Brazil: a retrospective study of 1978-2005.] Tristeza parasitária bovina na região sul do Rio Grande do Sul: estudo retrospectivo de 1978-2005. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(4):236-242. 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 A retrospective study of tick fever was made, which occurred from 1978-2005 in southern Rio Grande do Sul in the influence area of the Regional Diagnostic Laboratory of the Federal University of Pelotas. From 4,884 cattle specimens, sent by practitioners or which were from necropsies performed at the Diagnostic Laboratory, 231 (4.7%) were diagnosed as tick fever. Data from 221 of those outbreaks were analyzed. Ninety one (41.1%) outbreaks were caused by Babesia bovis, 11 (4.9%) by Babesia bigemina, and 65 (29.41%) by Anaplasma marginale. In other 33 (14.93%) outbreaks of babesiosis there is no information if the disease was caused by B. bovis or B. bigemina, and 21 (9.5%) outbreaks were caused by mixed infection of A. marginale and B. bovis or B. bigemina. Mean morbidity, mortality, and letality rates in 149 outbreaks were 11.17%, 6.81%, and 70.04%, respectively. Most outbreaks occurred during summer (January-March) and autumn (April-June), mainly in 1 to 3-year-old cattle. Clinical signs were depression, weakness, fallen ears, fever, and weight loss. Low packed cell volume values were always found. Hemoglobinury was observed in babesiosis. Neurological signs characterized by gait alterations, muscular tremors, aggressiveness and falling down with tonic and clonic convulsions were observed in babesiosis by B. bovis. The main gross lesions were anemia, jaundice, splenomegaly, hepatomegaly, yellow liver and cardiac hemorrhages. Hemoglobinury was observed in babesiosis, and congestion of the cerebral cortex in babesiosis by B. bovis. It is concluded that B. bovis is the main agent causing thick fever in southern Rio Grande do Sul. In that region with a cattle population of 2,630,000 heads the annual losses due to tick fever can be estimated in 6,220 cattle or US$ 1,623,000.00. Preventive measures to diminish tick fever losses in the region are necessary.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Schild A.L., Sallis E.S.V., Priebe A.P., Soares M.P., Almeida M.B., Ladeira S.R.L., Schramm R. & Riet-Correa F. 2006. Anthrax in cattle in southern Brazil: 1978-2006. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(4):243-248. Laboratório Regional de Diagnóstico, Faculdade de Veterinária, Univer-sidade Federal de Pelotas, Campus Universitário s/n, Pelotas, RS 96010-900, Brazil. E-mail: alschild@terra.com.br Ten outbreaks of anthrax occurred in cattle from 1978 to 2006 in southern Brazil, in 5 municipalities on the border with Uruguay, a country where the disease is frequent. The 10 outbreaks represented 0.2% of all bovine specimens received during the period by the Regional Diagnostic Laboratory of the Federal University of Pelotas, causing 267 deaths in a risk population of 6,605 head. The disease affected young and adult cattle mainly during summer. Only one farmer reported that sheep and horses were also affected. Clinically the peracute form was more frequent, but in some outbreaks the acute form with a clinical manifestation period of 6-48 hours was also observed. The source of infection was not established; but the reduced rainfall, associated with low, flat, flooded lands used for agriculture followed by animal grazing after harvest was probably related to the disease occurrence. Annual vaccination is an efficient way to prevent the disease.

• Anthrax Bacillus anthracis infectious disease disease of cattle

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Schild A.L., Sallis E.S.V., Priebe A.P., Soares M.P., Almeida M.B., Ladeira S.R.L., Schramm R. & Riet-Correa F. 2006. Anthrax in cattle in southern Brazil: 1978-2006. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(4):243-248. Laboratório Regional de Diagnóstico, Faculdade de Veterinária, Univer-sidade Federal de Pelotas, Campus Universitário s/n, Pelotas, RS 96010-900, Brazil. E-mail: alschild@terra.com.br Ten outbreaks of anthrax occurred in cattle from 1978 to 2006 in southern Brazil, in 5 municipalities on the border with Uruguay, a country where the disease is frequent. The 10 outbreaks represented 0.2% of all bovine specimens received during the period by the Regional Diagnostic Laboratory of the Federal University of Pelotas, causing 267 deaths in a risk population of 6,605 head. The disease affected young and adult cattle mainly during summer. Only one farmer reported that sheep and horses were also affected. Clinically the peracute form was more frequent, but in some outbreaks the acute form with a clinical manifestation period of 6-48 hours was also observed. The source of infection was not established; but the reduced rainfall, associated with low, flat, flooded lands used for agriculture followed by animal grazing after harvest was probably related to the disease occurrence. Annual vaccination is an efficient way to prevent the disease.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Peres M.F., Carrijo A.S., Higa A.H. & Oliveira J.M. 2006. [Serological evidence of avian pneumovirus infections in broiler flocks in counties of Mato Grosso do Sul.] Evidência sorológica de Pneumovírus aviário em lotes de frangos de corte em municípios de Mato Grosso do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(4):254-258. Departamento de Zootecnia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul (UFMS), Av. Filinto Müller 2443, Campo Grande, MS 79070-900, Brazil. E-mail: acarrijo@nin.ufms.br Avian pneumovirus (APV) is an important respiratory pathogen of hens and broilers. Although it was not clearly elucidated whether APV may cause economical losses in broiler flocks, it is known that APV infection can induce specific antibody production on these birds, and these serological reactions may provide some information about the epidemiological status of the APV infections. This work was carried out in search for antibodies to APV in broiler flocks in counties of Mato Grosso do Sul. Five hundred and thirty six serum samples from 54 broiler flocks at 42 and 51 days of age were tested with a commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The results showed that 330 samples (61.6%) were negative, 108 (20.1%) were suspect and 98 (18.3%) were considered positive for the presence to APV antibodies. Of all the flocks analyzed, 49 (90.7%) were considered either positive or suspect. The ELISA test demonstrated that there was a similar percentage of positive or suspect flocks among those flocks between 42 and 46 days of age, and among those between 47 and 51 days. No seasonal differences were observed, since the percentages of positive or suspect flocks either in summer or in winter months were similar. Most of the flocks were considered positive despite the type of broiler housing (conventional, environmental controlled or semi-controlled). It is concluded that there are strong evidences indicating circulation of APV in Mato Grosso do Sul. The percentages of positive flocks were similar regardless of the age groups of the birds examined, the type of broiler housing and the season when sampling was performed.

• Antibody diagnosis epidemiology avian pneumovirus PVA swollen head syndrome

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Peres M.F., Carrijo A.S., Higa A.H. & Oliveira J.M. 2006. [Serological evidence of avian pneumovirus infections in broiler flocks in counties of Mato Grosso do Sul.] Evidência sorológica de Pneumovírus aviário em lotes de frangos de corte em municípios de Mato Grosso do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(4):254-258. Departamento de Zootecnia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul (UFMS), Av. Filinto Müller 2443, Campo Grande, MS 79070-900, Brazil. E-mail: acarrijo@nin.ufms.br Avian pneumovirus (APV) is an important respiratory pathogen of hens and broilers. Although it was not clearly elucidated whether APV may cause economical losses in broiler flocks, it is known that APV infection can induce specific antibody production on these birds, and these serological reactions may provide some information about the epidemiological status of the APV infections. This work was carried out in search for antibodies to APV in broiler flocks in counties of Mato Grosso do Sul. Five hundred and thirty six serum samples from 54 broiler flocks at 42 and 51 days of age were tested with a commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The results showed that 330 samples (61.6%) were negative, 108 (20.1%) were suspect and 98 (18.3%) were considered positive for the presence to APV antibodies. Of all the flocks analyzed, 49 (90.7%) were considered either positive or suspect. The ELISA test demonstrated that there was a similar percentage of positive or suspect flocks among those flocks between 42 and 46 days of age, and among those between 47 and 51 days. No seasonal differences were observed, since the percentages of positive or suspect flocks either in summer or in winter months were similar. Most of the flocks were considered positive despite the type of broiler housing (conventional, environmental controlled or semi-controlled). It is concluded that there are strong evidences indicating circulation of APV in Mato Grosso do Sul. The percentages of positive flocks were similar regardless of the age groups of the birds examined, the type of broiler housing and the season when sampling was performed.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Souza A.M., Marques D.F., Döbereiner J. & Dutra I.S. 2006. [Spores and toxins of Clostridium botulinum in raining ponds used as water supply for cattle in pastures in the Araguaia Valley, state of Goiás, Brazil.] Esporos e toxinas de Clostridium botulinum em cacimbas utilizadas como bebedouro de bovinos no Vale do Araguaia, Goiás. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(3):133-138. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, GO 74001-970, Brazil. E-mail: airesms@vet.ufg.br The occurrence and distribution of Clostridium botulinum spores and toxins type C and D in 300 ponds, used by cattle for drinking on 130 farms located in 12 municipalities of the Rio Araguaia valley, state of Goiás, Brazil, was evaluated. The presence of spores was determined indirectly by cultivation in culture medium, followed by inoculation and neutralization in mice of samples of the sediment from the bottom of the raining ponds, from superficial soil and from cattle feces collected to its circuit. The toxin presence was evaluated directly by inoculation in mice of the filtered sediment of the ponds, followed by the neutralization in mice with antitoxins C and D. The presence of C. botulinum spores was significantly more frequent (p<0,05) in the cattle feces (31%), when compared with the results of the superficial soil samples (19%) and the sediments (10%). Botulinum toxins of type C and D or classified as belonging to the CD compound were detected in 6 samples (2%) of the 300 ponds. Of the 130 worked farms, in 122 (93,85%) ponds Clostridium botulinum spores or toxins were found in at least one of the researched variables, whilst ponds on only 8 (6,15%) farms did not present any contamination. Age and depth of the ponds were associated with the frequency of detection of botulinum spores and toxins. The older and shallower the ponds were, the larger was the frequency of isolation of the spores and toxins. The contamination of the ponds in the Araguaia valley with Clostridium botulinum spores and toxins type C and D demonstrates the permanent and growing potential risk for the occurrence of botulism in cattle through drinking water.

• Clostridium botulinum spores botulinum toxin botulism water contamination ponds cattle

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Souza A.M., Marques D.F., Döbereiner J. & Dutra I.S. 2006. [Spores and toxins of Clostridium botulinum in raining ponds used as water supply for cattle in pastures in the Araguaia Valley, state of Goiás, Brazil.] Esporos e toxinas de Clostridium botulinum em cacimbas utilizadas como bebedouro de bovinos no Vale do Araguaia, Goiás. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(3):133-138. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, GO 74001-970, Brazil. E-mail: airesms@vet.ufg.br The occurrence and distribution of Clostridium botulinum spores and toxins type C and D in 300 ponds, used by cattle for drinking on 130 farms located in 12 municipalities of the Rio Araguaia valley, state of Goiás, Brazil, was evaluated. The presence of spores was determined indirectly by cultivation in culture medium, followed by inoculation and neutralization in mice of samples of the sediment from the bottom of the raining ponds, from superficial soil and from cattle feces collected to its circuit. The toxin presence was evaluated directly by inoculation in mice of the filtered sediment of the ponds, followed by the neutralization in mice with antitoxins C and D. The presence of C. botulinum spores was significantly more frequent (p<0,05) in the cattle feces (31%), when compared with the results of the superficial soil samples (19%) and the sediments (10%). Botulinum toxins of type C and D or classified as belonging to the CD compound were detected in 6 samples (2%) of the 300 ponds. Of the 130 worked farms, in 122 (93,85%) ponds Clostridium botulinum spores or toxins were found in at least one of the researched variables, whilst ponds on only 8 (6,15%) farms did not present any contamination. Age and depth of the ponds were associated with the frequency of detection of botulinum spores and toxins. The older and shallower the ponds were, the larger was the frequency of isolation of the spores and toxins. The contamination of the ponds in the Araguaia valley with Clostridium botulinum spores and toxins type C and D demonstrates the permanent and growing potential risk for the occurrence of botulism in cattle through drinking water.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Corrêa A.M.R., Zlotowski P., Rozza D.B., Borba M.R., Leal J.S., Cuz C.E.F. & Driemeier D. 2006. Postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome in farmed wild boars (Sus scrofa) in Rio Grande do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(3):154-156. Department of Veterinary Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: davetpath@ufrgs.br This report concerns an outbreak of postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome in wild boars from commercial herds in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. The main clinical signs were progressive wasting, respiratory distress, diarrhea, and ocular discharges. Enhanced lymph nodes and spleens, ascites, hydrothorax, and non collapsed lungs were the principal gross lesions. Varying degrees of lymphohistiocytic infiltrates in lymph nodes, spleen, and intestines were the most significant microscopic changes. Although a total of 26 animals had showed clinical and pathological findings consistent with the disease, only in 11 of them it was possible to confirm a PMWS diagnosis through the association of specific lesions in lymphoid tissues with the presence of the viral antigen detected by immunohistochemistry. These findings were similar to those reported in the swine disease.

• Circovirus PCV2 PMWS immunohistochemistry wild boar Sus scrofa

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Corrêa A.M.R., Zlotowski P., Rozza D.B., Borba M.R., Leal J.S., Cuz C.E.F. & Driemeier D. 2006. Postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome in farmed wild boars (Sus scrofa) in Rio Grande do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(3):154-156. Department of Veterinary Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: davetpath@ufrgs.br This report concerns an outbreak of postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome in wild boars from commercial herds in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. The main clinical signs were progressive wasting, respiratory distress, diarrhea, and ocular discharges. Enhanced lymph nodes and spleens, ascites, hydrothorax, and non collapsed lungs were the principal gross lesions. Varying degrees of lymphohistiocytic infiltrates in lymph nodes, spleen, and intestines were the most significant microscopic changes. Although a total of 26 animals had showed clinical and pathological findings consistent with the disease, only in 11 of them it was possible to confirm a PMWS diagnosis through the association of specific lesions in lymphoid tissues with the presence of the viral antigen detected by immunohistochemistry. These findings were similar to those reported in the swine disease.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Guedes K.M.R., Schild A.L. Riet-Correa F., Barros S.S. & Simões S.V.D. 2006. [Spongious degeneration in the central nervous system in Sindhi calves]. Degeneração esponjosa no sistema nervoso central de bezerros da raça Sindhi. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(3):157-160. Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Campus de Patos, 58700-000 Patos, Paraíba, Brazil. E-mail franklin.riet@pesquisador.cnpq.br Spongy degeneration (status spongiosus) includes many histological alterations characterized by vacuoles in the neuropile in different regions of the central nervous system (CNS). The vacuolization can be caused by intramyelinic edema, as in maple syrup urine disease and some toxic diseases, or by astrocytic edema, as in citrullinemia. This paper reports a spongy degeneration in two Sindhi calves, a female and a male. Both calves were offspring from the same bull, and the herd had high degree of inbreeding. The female calf was born normal, but progressive nervous signs were observed since 2 months old. The male calf had progressive nervous signs since it was born. Both calves were euthanized with severe nervous signs when 4 months old. At necropsy the liver was pale in the male calf. Histological alterations were mild to accentuated vacuolization, mainly in the deep cerebral cortex, cerebellar white matter, grey matter of the spinal cord, internal capsule, and brain stem. Fatty degeneration was observed in the liver of both animals. On electron microscopy it was found that the status spongiosus was caused by astrocytic edema. It is suggested that the disease is caused by a metabolic hereditary error.

• Status spongiosus astrocytic edema congenital diseases cattle

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Guedes K.M.R., Schild A.L. Riet-Correa F., Barros S.S. & Simões S.V.D. 2006. [Spongious degeneration in the central nervous system in Sindhi calves]. Degeneração esponjosa no sistema nervoso central de bezerros da raça Sindhi. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(3):157-160. Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Campus de Patos, 58700-000 Patos, Paraíba, Brazil. E-mail franklin.riet@pesquisador.cnpq.br Spongy degeneration (status spongiosus) includes many histological alterations characterized by vacuoles in the neuropile in different regions of the central nervous system (CNS). The vacuolization can be caused by intramyelinic edema, as in maple syrup urine disease and some toxic diseases, or by astrocytic edema, as in citrullinemia. This paper reports a spongy degeneration in two Sindhi calves, a female and a male. Both calves were offspring from the same bull, and the herd had high degree of inbreeding. The female calf was born normal, but progressive nervous signs were observed since 2 months old. The male calf had progressive nervous signs since it was born. Both calves were euthanized with severe nervous signs when 4 months old. At necropsy the liver was pale in the male calf. Histological alterations were mild to accentuated vacuolization, mainly in the deep cerebral cortex, cerebellar white matter, grey matter of the spinal cord, internal capsule, and brain stem. Fatty degeneration was observed in the liver of both animals. On electron microscopy it was found that the status spongiosus was caused by astrocytic edema. It is suggested that the disease is caused by a metabolic hereditary error.