PESQUISA VETERINÁRIA BRASILEIRA

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Ferreira L.C.L., Flores E.F., Driemeier D., Melo O. & Lemos R.A.A. 2008. [Mucosal disease associated with generalized dermatitis in cattle, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil.] Doença das mucosas associada à dermatite generalizada em bovinos, Mato Grosso do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(6):285-292. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, Av. Senador Filinto Müller 2443, Campo Grande, MS 79070-900, Brazil. E-mail: eqrural@nin.ufms.br This paper reports epidemiological, clinical, pathological and laboratory diagnostic aspects of a form of dermatitis associated with mucosal disease (MD) in cattle. It also focuses on the methods used for identifying persistently infected (PI) animals and on the impact of the disease on fertility and weaning rates in the affected herd. Cases of dermatitis associated with MD were diagnosed in two 12 and 24-month-old Nelore calves belonging to a beef cattle farm that operates the full cycle of production (calving, rearing, finishing) in Mato Grosso do Sul, Midwest Brazil. The clinical signs exhibited by affected cattle 0included slow, progressive weight loss; formation of diffuse skin crusts in multiple body areas; skin dryness; multiple ulcerations on the gums and dorsal surface of the tongue which evolved to longitudinal fissures; formation of keratinized projections; and detachment of hoof horn. In addition, diarrhea affected one animal in the late stage of the disease. Necropsies also revealed longitudinal erosions in the esophagus. Histological examination showed coagulation necrosis foci in esophageal and lingual mucosae, with neutrophil and lymphocyte infiltration. Skin lesions consisted of epidermal coagulation necrosis associated with neutrophil infiltration and hyperkeratosis. In both cases, clinical diagnosis was confirmed by the isolation and identification of cytopathic and noncytopathic biotypes of the bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) and immunohistochemical detection of viral antigens in formalin fixed tissues. Out of 300 cattle that had contact with the affected animals, 38 were found to be seropositive - in high neutralizing titers - to BVDV. Blood samples from 1,025 young animals and 40 bulls from the farm were examined for the presence of BVDV to identify potential PI animals. The virus was isolated from blood of three calves in the initial test and, 12 months later, from two of them which had remained on the farm. Only one of these calves was found to be BVDV-positive by immuno-histochemical testing performed on ear-tissue samples. In the year following the birth of PI calves, the herd underwent decreases in fertility and weaning rates, which later returned to their previous levels. The resulting data demonstrate the presence of BVDV infection in beef herds in Mato Grosso do Sul and provide evidence as to include the disease in the differential diagnosis of causes of generalized dermatitis in cattle.

• Bovine viral diarrhea virus mucosal disease cattle diseases viral diseases dermatitis

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Ferreira L.C.L., Flores E.F., Driemeier D., Melo O. & Lemos R.A.A. 2008. [Mucosal disease associated with generalized dermatitis in cattle, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil.] Doença das mucosas associada à dermatite generalizada em bovinos, Mato Grosso do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(6):285-292. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, Av. Senador Filinto Müller 2443, Campo Grande, MS 79070-900, Brazil. E-mail: eqrural@nin.ufms.br This paper reports epidemiological, clinical, pathological and laboratory diagnostic aspects of a form of dermatitis associated with mucosal disease (MD) in cattle. It also focuses on the methods used for identifying persistently infected (PI) animals and on the impact of the disease on fertility and weaning rates in the affected herd. Cases of dermatitis associated with MD were diagnosed in two 12 and 24-month-old Nelore calves belonging to a beef cattle farm that operates the full cycle of production (calving, rearing, finishing) in Mato Grosso do Sul, Midwest Brazil. The clinical signs exhibited by affected cattle 0included slow, progressive weight loss; formation of diffuse skin crusts in multiple body areas; skin dryness; multiple ulcerations on the gums and dorsal surface of the tongue which evolved to longitudinal fissures; formation of keratinized projections; and detachment of hoof horn. In addition, diarrhea affected one animal in the late stage of the disease. Necropsies also revealed longitudinal erosions in the esophagus. Histological examination showed coagulation necrosis foci in esophageal and lingual mucosae, with neutrophil and lymphocyte infiltration. Skin lesions consisted of epidermal coagulation necrosis associated with neutrophil infiltration and hyperkeratosis. In both cases, clinical diagnosis was confirmed by the isolation and identification of cytopathic and noncytopathic biotypes of the bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) and immunohistochemical detection of viral antigens in formalin fixed tissues. Out of 300 cattle that had contact with the affected animals, 38 were found to be seropositive - in high neutralizing titers - to BVDV. Blood samples from 1,025 young animals and 40 bulls from the farm were examined for the presence of BVDV to identify potential PI animals. The virus was isolated from blood of three calves in the initial test and, 12 months later, from two of them which had remained on the farm. Only one of these calves was found to be BVDV-positive by immuno-histochemical testing performed on ear-tissue samples. In the year following the birth of PI calves, the herd underwent decreases in fertility and weaning rates, which later returned to their previous levels. The resulting data demonstrate the presence of BVDV infection in beef herds in Mato Grosso do Sul and provide evidence as to include the disease in the differential diagnosis of causes of generalized dermatitis in cattle.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Iamaguti L.S., Brandão C.V.S., Pellizzon C.H., Ranzani J.J.T. & Minto B.W. 2008. [Histological and morphometric analysis for the use of a biosynthetic cellulose membrane in experimental trochleopasty.] Análises histológica e morfométrica do uso de membrana biossintética de celulose em trocleoplastia experimental de cães. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(4):195-200. Departamento de Cirurgia e Anestesiologia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Campus de Botucatu, Distrito de Rubião Jr s/n, Botucatu, SP 18.618-000, Brazil. E-mail: iamaguti_lu@hotmail.com The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of a locally made biosynthetic cellulose membrane after experimental trochleoplasty, in order to verify whether its use could support migration of chondrogenic cells. Twelve male and female adult healthy dogs and without claudication were used. All dogs were submitted to trochleoplasty in both pelvic limbs after sedation and epidural anesthesia. In the left hind limb, the biosynthetic cellulose membrane was fixed with simple suture using Polyglactin 910 6-0 after performing trochleoplasty (treated group); whereas in the right limb (control group) only trochleoplasty was performed. The dogs were subdivided into 4 subgroups for postoperative evaluation at 15, 30, 60 and 90 days post-surgery. Biopsy was performed after exploratory arthrotomy for histopathologic and morfometric evaluation. At 30 and 60 days post-surgery, more condrocyte-like cells of immature aspect were observed in lesions treated with the cellulose membrane. At 90 days post-surgery the reparative tissue was characterized as mature fibrocartilage-like tissue without difference between the groups. In the control group there was a progressive increase of the number of cells until the end of the evaluation period. Otherwise, when compared to the initial period (15 days), there was an increase in the number of cells until 60 days, followed by a return the initial values at 90 days in the treated group. In comparison to controls, the number of cells was greater in the treated group from 15 to 60 days. Initially, the neoformed repair tissue was thicker in the treated group. From the results of this study, it was concluded that the cellulose membrane shortened the initial tissue repair process in the trochleoplasty area, showing good integration of the neoformed tissue with the adjacent cartilage.

• Sulcoplasty physical barrier guided tissue regeneration dog

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Iamaguti L.S., Brandão C.V.S., Pellizzon C.H., Ranzani J.J.T. & Minto B.W. 2008. [Histological and morphometric analysis for the use of a biosynthetic cellulose membrane in experimental trochleopasty.] Análises histológica e morfométrica do uso de membrana biossintética de celulose em trocleoplastia experimental de cães. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(4):195-200. Departamento de Cirurgia e Anestesiologia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Campus de Botucatu, Distrito de Rubião Jr s/n, Botucatu, SP 18.618-000, Brazil. E-mail: iamaguti_lu@hotmail.com The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of a locally made biosynthetic cellulose membrane after experimental trochleoplasty, in order to verify whether its use could support migration of chondrogenic cells. Twelve male and female adult healthy dogs and without claudication were used. All dogs were submitted to trochleoplasty in both pelvic limbs after sedation and epidural anesthesia. In the left hind limb, the biosynthetic cellulose membrane was fixed with simple suture using Polyglactin 910 6-0 after performing trochleoplasty (treated group); whereas in the right limb (control group) only trochleoplasty was performed. The dogs were subdivided into 4 subgroups for postoperative evaluation at 15, 30, 60 and 90 days post-surgery. Biopsy was performed after exploratory arthrotomy for histopathologic and morfometric evaluation. At 30 and 60 days post-surgery, more condrocyte-like cells of immature aspect were observed in lesions treated with the cellulose membrane. At 90 days post-surgery the reparative tissue was characterized as mature fibrocartilage-like tissue without difference between the groups. In the control group there was a progressive increase of the number of cells until the end of the evaluation period. Otherwise, when compared to the initial period (15 days), there was an increase in the number of cells until 60 days, followed by a return the initial values at 90 days in the treated group. In comparison to controls, the number of cells was greater in the treated group from 15 to 60 days. Initially, the neoformed repair tissue was thicker in the treated group. From the results of this study, it was concluded that the cellulose membrane shortened the initial tissue repair process in the trochleoplasty area, showing good integration of the neoformed tissue with the adjacent cartilage.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Rocha A.C.G.P., Rocha S.L.S., Lima-Rosa C.A.V., Souza G.F., Moraes H.L.S., Salle F.O., Moraes L.B. & Salle C.T.P. 2008. Genes associated with pathogenicity of avian Escherichia coli (APEC) isolated from respiratory cases of poultry. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(3):183-186. Centro de Diagnóstico e Pesquisa em Patologia Aviária, Departamento de Medicina Animal, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 8824, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: ana.crocha@terra.com.br The virulence mechanisms of avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) have been continually studied and are believed to be multi-factorial. Certain properties are primarily associated with virulent samples and have been identified in avian isolates. In this study a total of 61 E. coli, isolates from chicken flocks with respiratory symptomatology, were probed by Polimerase Chain Reation (PCR) for the presence of genes responsible for the adhesion capacity, P fimbria (papC) e F11 fimbria (felA), colicin production (cvaC), aerobactin presence (iutA), serum resistance (iss), temperature-sensitive hemagglutinin (tsh), and presence of K1 and K5 capsular antigens (kpsII). The iss gene was detected in 73,8%, tsh in 55,7%, iutA in 45,9%, felA in 39,3%, papC in 24,3%, cvaC in 23% and kpsII in18%.

• Escherichia coli virulence PCR poultry pathogenicity

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Rocha A.C.G.P., Rocha S.L.S., Lima-Rosa C.A.V., Souza G.F., Moraes H.L.S., Salle F.O., Moraes L.B. & Salle C.T.P. 2008. Genes associated with pathogenicity of avian Escherichia coli (APEC) isolated from respiratory cases of poultry. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(3):183-186. Centro de Diagnóstico e Pesquisa em Patologia Aviária, Departamento de Medicina Animal, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 8824, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: ana.crocha@terra.com.br The virulence mechanisms of avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) have been continually studied and are believed to be multi-factorial. Certain properties are primarily associated with virulent samples and have been identified in avian isolates. In this study a total of 61 E. coli, isolates from chicken flocks with respiratory symptomatology, were probed by Polimerase Chain Reation (PCR) for the presence of genes responsible for the adhesion capacity, P fimbria (papC) e F11 fimbria (felA), colicin production (cvaC), aerobactin presence (iutA), serum resistance (iss), temperature-sensitive hemagglutinin (tsh), and presence of K1 and K5 capsular antigens (kpsII). The iss gene was detected in 73,8%, tsh in 55,7%, iutA in 45,9%, felA in 39,3%, papC in 24,3%, cvaC in 23% and kpsII in18%.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Montassier M.F.S., Brentano L., Montassier H.J. & Richtzenhain L.J. 2008. Genetic grouping of avian infectious bronchitis virus isolated in Brazil, based on RT-PCR/RFLP analysis of the S1 gene. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(3):190-194. Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando de Paiva 87, São Paulo, SP 05508-000, Brazil. E-mail: leonardo@usp.br Twelve Brazilian isolates and one reference vaccine strain of avian infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) were propagated in embryonating chicken eggs. The entire S1 glycoprotein gene of these viruses was analysed by reverse-transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism (RT-PCR-RFLP), using the restriction enzymes HaeIII, XcmI and BstyI. The RFLP patterns led to the classification of these isolates into five distinct genotypes: A, B, C, D and Massachusetts. Five of twelve isolates were grouped in Massachusetts genotype and the remaining seven viruses were classified into four distinct genotypes: A (2), B (2), C (2) or D (1). Such genotyping classification agreed with previous immunological analysis for most of these viruses, highlighting the occurrence of a relevant variability among the IBV strains that are circulating in Brazilian commercial poultry flocks.

• Avian infectious bronchitis virus spike glycoprotein genotyping and RFLP

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Montassier M.F.S., Brentano L., Montassier H.J. & Richtzenhain L.J. 2008. Genetic grouping of avian infectious bronchitis virus isolated in Brazil, based on RT-PCR/RFLP analysis of the S1 gene. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(3):190-194. Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando de Paiva 87, São Paulo, SP 05508-000, Brazil. E-mail: leonardo@usp.br Twelve Brazilian isolates and one reference vaccine strain of avian infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) were propagated in embryonating chicken eggs. The entire S1 glycoprotein gene of these viruses was analysed by reverse-transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism (RT-PCR-RFLP), using the restriction enzymes HaeIII, XcmI and BstyI. The RFLP patterns led to the classification of these isolates into five distinct genotypes: A, B, C, D and Massachusetts. Five of twelve isolates were grouped in Massachusetts genotype and the remaining seven viruses were classified into four distinct genotypes: A (2), B (2), C (2) or D (1). Such genotyping classification agreed with previous immunological analysis for most of these viruses, highlighting the occurrence of a relevant variability among the IBV strains that are circulating in Brazilian commercial poultry flocks.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Santos J.C.A., Riet-Correa F., Simões S.V.D. & Barros C.S.L. 2008. [Pathogenesis, clinical signs and pathology of diseases caused by hepatotoxic plants in ruminants and horses in Brazil.] Patogênese, sinais clínicos e patologia das doenças causadas por plantas hepatotóxicas em ruminantes e eqüinos no Brasil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(1):1-14. Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Patos, PB 58700-000, Brazil. E-mail: franklin.riet@pq.cnpq.br Plants causing hepatic lesions in ruminants and horses constitute one important group of poisonous plants in Brazil. These plants can be placed in three major groups: plants causing acute liver necrosis; plants causing liver fibrosis; and plants causing hepatogenous photosensitization. For some of these plants the toxic principles are known. Cestrum parqui and Xanthium cavanillesi that cause acute liver necrosis contain carboxy-atractylosides. Senecio spp., Crotalaria spp., and Echium plantagineum that cause liver fibrosis contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids. As for the group of plants causing hepatogenous photosensibilization, Myoporum spp. contain furanosesquiterpenes, Lantana spp contain triterpenes, and Brachiaria spp. and Panicum spp. contain steroidal saponins. The clinical and pathologic features of the toxicosis caused by these phytotoxins, general mechanisms of production for the production of the clinical signs and the methods for diagnosis of hepatic failure in farm animals are reviewed.

• Hepatotoxic plants liver failure carboxyatractylosides pyrrolizidine alkaloids furanosesquiterpenes triterpenes steroidal saponins

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Santos J.C.A., Riet-Correa F., Simões S.V.D. & Barros C.S.L. 2008. [Pathogenesis, clinical signs and pathology of diseases caused by hepatotoxic plants in ruminants and horses in Brazil.] Patogênese, sinais clínicos e patologia das doenças causadas por plantas hepatotóxicas em ruminantes e eqüinos no Brasil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(1):1-14. Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Patos, PB 58700-000, Brazil. E-mail: franklin.riet@pq.cnpq.br Plants causing hepatic lesions in ruminants and horses constitute one important group of poisonous plants in Brazil. These plants can be placed in three major groups: plants causing acute liver necrosis; plants causing liver fibrosis; and plants causing hepatogenous photosensitization. For some of these plants the toxic principles are known. Cestrum parqui and Xanthium cavanillesi that cause acute liver necrosis contain carboxy-atractylosides. Senecio spp., Crotalaria spp., and Echium plantagineum that cause liver fibrosis contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids. As for the group of plants causing hepatogenous photosensibilization, Myoporum spp. contain furanosesquiterpenes, Lantana spp contain triterpenes, and Brachiaria spp. and Panicum spp. contain steroidal saponins. The clinical and pathologic features of the toxicosis caused by these phytotoxins, general mechanisms of production for the production of the clinical signs and the methods for diagnosis of hepatic failure in farm animals are reviewed.

Abstract in English:

Abstract.- Barry A.F, Alfieri A.F. & Alfieri A.A. 2008. Detection and phylogenetic analysis of porcine enteric calicivirus, genetically related to the Cowden strain of sapovirus genogroup III, in Brazilian swine herds. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(1):82-86. Laboratório de Virologia Animal, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Centro de Ciências Agrárias, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Campus Universitário, Londrina, PR 86051-990, Brazil. E-mail: alinebarry@uol.com.br Sapovirus of the Caliciviridae family is an important agent of acute gastroenteritis in children and piglets. The Sapovirus genus is divided into seven genogroups (G), and strains from the GIII, GVI and GVII are associated with infections in swine. Despite the high prevalence in some countries, there are no studies related to the presence of porcine enteric sapovirus infections in piglets in Brazil. In the present study, 18 fecal specimens from piglets up to 28 days were examined to determine the presence of sapovirus genome by RT-PCR assay, using primers designed to amplify a 331 bp segment of the RNA polymerase gene. In 44.4% (8/18) of fecal samples, an amplified DNA fragment was obtained. One of these fragments was sequenced and submitted to molecular and phylogenetic analysis. This analysis revealed high similarity, with nucleotides (87%) and amino acids (97.8%), to the Cowden strain, the GIII prototype of porcine enteric calicivirus. This is the first description of sapovirus in Brazilian swine herds.

• Swine; piglets diarrhea calicivirus Sapovirus

Abstract in Portuguese:

Abstract.- Barry A.F, Alfieri A.F. & Alfieri A.A. 2008. Detection and phylogenetic analysis of porcine enteric calicivirus, genetically related to the Cowden strain of sapovirus genogroup III, in Brazilian swine herds. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(1):82-86. Laboratório de Virologia Animal, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Centro de Ciências Agrárias, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Campus Universitário, Londrina, PR 86051-990, Brazil. E-mail: alinebarry@uol.com.br Sapovirus of the Caliciviridae family is an important agent of acute gastroenteritis in children and piglets. The Sapovirus genus is divided into seven genogroups (G), and strains from the GIII, GVI and GVII are associated with infections in swine. Despite the high prevalence in some countries, there are no studies related to the presence of porcine enteric sapovirus infections in piglets in Brazil. In the present study, 18 fecal specimens from piglets up to 28 days were examined to determine the presence of sapovirus genome by RT-PCR assay, using primers designed to amplify a 331 bp segment of the RNA polymerase gene. In 44.4% (8/18) of fecal samples, an amplified DNA fragment was obtained. One of these fragments was sequenced and submitted to molecular and phylogenetic analysis. This analysis revealed high similarity, with nucleotides (87%) and amino acids (97.8%), to the Cowden strain, the GIII prototype of porcine enteric calicivirus. This is the first description of sapovirus in Brazilian swine herds.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Silva M.C., Fighera R.A., Brum J.S., Graça D.L., Kommers G.D., Irigoyen L.F. & Barros C.S.L. 2007. [Hepatic cirrhosis in dogs: 80 cases (1965-2003).] Cirrose hepática em cães: 80 casos (1965-2003). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(11):471-480. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Camobi, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br A retrospective study in 80 cases of canine hepatic cirrhosis was carried out at the Veterinary Pathology Laboratory of the Federal University of Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Considering those cases in which the sex and age of the dogs were informed in the necropsy reports, males comprised 53.8% of the cases and 46.2% were females; while 50.0% of these dogs were aged, 48.6% were adults and 1.4% were puppies. The main observed clinical signs include ascites (39/80 [48.8%]), icterus (19/80 [23.8%]), anorexia (13/80 [16.2%]), neurological disturbances (12/80 [15.0%]), dyspnea (12/80 [15.0%]) and subcutaneous edema (10/80 [12.5%]). In 63 dogs for which there was a description of gross morphology in the necropsy reports, 76.2% had macronodular and 23.8% had micronodular cirrhosis. In 14 cases in which the histopathology of the liver was reviewed different degrees of fibrosis were observed: mild in 57.2%, moderate in 21.4%, or marked in 21.4%; in these cases there were no correlation with the degree of fibrosis and other associated histological changes such as lipidosis, biliary ducts hyperplasia, inflammation, bilestasis, hemosiderosis and random hepatocellular necrosis. Extra hepatic changes included ascites (39/63 [61.9%]), icterus (19/63 [30.2%]), status spongiosus (15/63 [23.8%]), hydrothorax (12/63 [19.0%]), subcutaneous edema (10/63 [15.9%]), portosystemic shunts (11/63 [17.5%]), gastric our duodenal ulceration (11/63 [17.5%]) and cholemic nephrosis (4/63 [6.3%]).

• Diseases of dogs cirrhosis fibrosis nodular regeneration pathology diseases of the liver

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Silva M.C., Fighera R.A., Brum J.S., Graça D.L., Kommers G.D., Irigoyen L.F. & Barros C.S.L. 2007. [Hepatic cirrhosis in dogs: 80 cases (1965-2003).] Cirrose hepática em cães: 80 casos (1965-2003). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(11):471-480. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Camobi, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br A retrospective study in 80 cases of canine hepatic cirrhosis was carried out at the Veterinary Pathology Laboratory of the Federal University of Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Considering those cases in which the sex and age of the dogs were informed in the necropsy reports, males comprised 53.8% of the cases and 46.2% were females; while 50.0% of these dogs were aged, 48.6% were adults and 1.4% were puppies. The main observed clinical signs include ascites (39/80 [48.8%]), icterus (19/80 [23.8%]), anorexia (13/80 [16.2%]), neurological disturbances (12/80 [15.0%]), dyspnea (12/80 [15.0%]) and subcutaneous edema (10/80 [12.5%]). In 63 dogs for which there was a description of gross morphology in the necropsy reports, 76.2% had macronodular and 23.8% had micronodular cirrhosis. In 14 cases in which the histopathology of the liver was reviewed different degrees of fibrosis were observed: mild in 57.2%, moderate in 21.4%, or marked in 21.4%; in these cases there were no correlation with the degree of fibrosis and other associated histological changes such as lipidosis, biliary ducts hyperplasia, inflammation, bilestasis, hemosiderosis and random hepatocellular necrosis. Extra hepatic changes included ascites (39/63 [61.9%]), icterus (19/63 [30.2%]), status spongiosus (15/63 [23.8%]), hydrothorax (12/63 [19.0%]), subcutaneous edema (10/63 [15.9%]), portosystemic shunts (11/63 [17.5%]), gastric our duodenal ulceration (11/63 [17.5%]) and cholemic nephrosis (4/63 [6.3%]).

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Lara V.M., Sueli Akemi Taniwaki S.A. & João Pessoa Araújo Jr J.P. 2007. [Phylogenetic characterization of feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) isolates from the state of São Paulo.] Caracterização filogenética de amostras do vírus da imunodeficiência felina (FIV) do Estado de São Paulo. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(11):467-470. Departamento de Micro-biologia e Imunologia, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, São Paulo 18618-000, Brazil. E-mail: jpessoa@ibb.unesp.br Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) is a lentivirus associated with immunologic disorders in domestic cats. Due to the high genetic variability of FIV, five subtypes (A to E) have been identified and diversity within each subtype is also frequent. The study of the genetic diversity can aid the understanding the pathogenesis and epidemiology of the disease. Therefore, the present work aimed to analyze phylogenetically FIV isolates of domestic cats from the state of São Paulo, Brazil. The sequencing of 658 bp of the gag gene from 23 samples was performed and the results were analyzed using the Tamura-Nei nucleotidic substitution method. The phylogenetic analysis showed that all viruses belong to subtype B, and clearly three subgroups were present within this subtype. Additionally, these results suggest a common ancestor between the FIV strains derived from Japan and one Brazilian virus. In conclusion, this work presents the first information about the genetic diversity of FIV in the state of São Paulo. Additional studies are necessary to characterize the real scenario of the distribution of FIV subtypes in the population of Brazilian cats.

• Cat subtype FIV phylogeny genotyping

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Lara V.M., Sueli Akemi Taniwaki S.A. & João Pessoa Araújo Jr J.P. 2007. [Phylogenetic characterization of feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) isolates from the state of São Paulo.] Caracterização filogenética de amostras do vírus da imunodeficiência felina (FIV) do Estado de São Paulo. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(11):467-470. Departamento de Micro-biologia e Imunologia, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, São Paulo 18618-000, Brazil. E-mail: jpessoa@ibb.unesp.br Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) is a lentivirus associated with immunologic disorders in domestic cats. Due to the high genetic variability of FIV, five subtypes (A to E) have been identified and diversity within each subtype is also frequent. The study of the genetic diversity can aid the understanding the pathogenesis and epidemiology of the disease. Therefore, the present work aimed to analyze phylogenetically FIV isolates of domestic cats from the state of São Paulo, Brazil. The sequencing of 658 bp of the gag gene from 23 samples was performed and the results were analyzed using the Tamura-Nei nucleotidic substitution method. The phylogenetic analysis showed that all viruses belong to subtype B, and clearly three subgroups were present within this subtype. Additionally, these results suggest a common ancestor between the FIV strains derived from Japan and one Brazilian virus. In conclusion, this work presents the first information about the genetic diversity of FIV in the state of São Paulo. Additional studies are necessary to characterize the real scenario of the distribution of FIV subtypes in the population of Brazilian cats.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Inoe A.P., Pereira F.C., Stopiglia A.J. & Da-Silva C.F. 2007. Pharmacological immunomodulation enhances peripheral nerve regeneration. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(9):363-369. Departamento de Anatomia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade de São Paulo, Cidade Universitária, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes 2415, São Paulo, SP 055508-900, Brazil. E-mail: ana.paula@unipar.br To assess the effect of N-Acetylmuramyl-L-Alanyl-D-Isoglutamine MDP topically administrated on the regenerating peripheral neurons, twelve male C57BL/6J adult mice were equally distributed into three groups. Four mice underwent unilateral sciatic nerve transection and polyethylene tubulization, with a 4mm gap between the proximal and distal nerve stumps and were implanted with collagen + PBS (COL). Other four animals underwent the same surgical procedure but received collagen + MDP (COL/MDP) inside the prosthesis. Four animals were not operated and served as control group (NOR). After 4 weeks, the regenerated nerve cables were processed for total myelinated axon counting and myelinated fiber diameter measurement. The L5 dorsal root ganglion (DRG) was also removed and sectioned for sensory neurons counting and measurement. The results revealed significant difference (p<0.05) in axonal counting among the groups NOR (4,355±32), COL (1,869±289) and COL/MDP (2,430±223). There was a significant reduction in the axonal diameter in the operated groups (COL=3.38mm±1.16 and COL/MDP=3.54mm±1.16) compared to NOR (6.19mm±2.45). No difference was found in the number of DRG neurons between the experimental groups (COL=564±51; COL/MDP=514±56), which presented fewer sensory neurons compared to NOR (1,097±142). Data obtained indicate that locally applied MDP stimulates peripheral nerve regeneration in mice.

• N-Acetylmuramyl-L-Alanyl-D-Isoglutamine MDP nerve regeneration drug effect sciatic nerve surgery

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Inoe A.P., Pereira F.C., Stopiglia A.J. & Da-Silva C.F. 2007. Pharmacological immunomodulation enhances peripheral nerve regeneration. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(9):363-369. Departamento de Anatomia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade de São Paulo, Cidade Universitária, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes 2415, São Paulo, SP 055508-900, Brazil. E-mail: ana.paula@unipar.br To assess the effect of N-Acetylmuramyl-L-Alanyl-D-Isoglutamine MDP topically administrated on the regenerating peripheral neurons, twelve male C57BL/6J adult mice were equally distributed into three groups. Four mice underwent unilateral sciatic nerve transection and polyethylene tubulization, with a 4mm gap between the proximal and distal nerve stumps and were implanted with collagen + PBS (COL). Other four animals underwent the same surgical procedure but received collagen + MDP (COL/MDP) inside the prosthesis. Four animals were not operated and served as control group (NOR). After 4 weeks, the regenerated nerve cables were processed for total myelinated axon counting and myelinated fiber diameter measurement. The L5 dorsal root ganglion (DRG) was also removed and sectioned for sensory neurons counting and measurement. The results revealed significant difference (p<0.05) in axonal counting among the groups NOR (4,355±32), COL (1,869±289) and COL/MDP (2,430±223). There was a significant reduction in the axonal diameter in the operated groups (COL=3.38mm±1.16 and COL/MDP=3.54mm±1.16) compared to NOR (6.19mm±2.45). No difference was found in the number of DRG neurons between the experimental groups (COL=564±51; COL/MDP=514±56), which presented fewer sensory neurons compared to NOR (1,097±142). Data obtained indicate that locally applied MDP stimulates peripheral nerve regeneration in mice.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Claus M.P., Vivian D., Lunardi M., Alfieri A.F. & Alfieri A.A. 2007. [Phylogenetic analysis of bovine papillomavirus associated with skin warts in cattle herds from the state of Paraná.] Análise filogenética do papilomavírus bovino associado a lesões cutâneas em rebanhos do Estado do Paraná. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(7):314-318. Laboratório de Virologia Animal, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Centro de Ciências Agrárias, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Cx. Postal 6001, Campus Universitário, Londrina, PR 86051-990, Brazil. E-mail: alfieri@uel.br Bovine papillomavirus (BPV) infection causes hyperplastic lesions in the cutaneous epithelium of cattle. Six types of BPV were classified in two sub-groups, being correlated to the anatomical regions of the infection and morphologic characteristics of the lesions. The present study was carried out to identify the types of BPV present in skin warts of cattle from the state of Paraná, Brazil. The generic primers FAP59 and FAP64 were used for amplification of a 478 bp fragment of BPV L1 gene in nine cutaneous papilloma samples obtained from six animals in four herds. In all papillomas examined, a product with the expected molecular size was amplified. Phylogenetic analysis of the PCR products identified BPV-2 in three samples, BPV-1 in one, and BPV-6 in five papillomas. BPV-6 was detected in cutaneous papillomas of the teat and in other body parts as well. In one animal, from which more than one sample was collected, a concomitant infection by BPV-1 and BPV-2 was identified. The five positive BPV-6 samples showed a nucleotide identity of 100% with the sequence of the reference strain available in GenBank. However, differences among BPV-2 and BPV-1 Brazilian samples and the respective reference sequences deposited in GenBank were observed. Molecular comparison of the two BPV-2 strains identified showed the involvement of two viral variants. This study revealed the diversity of BPV types circulating in the state of Paraná.

• Bovine papillomavirus cutaneous papillomatosis phylogeny polymerase chain reaction

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Claus M.P., Vivian D., Lunardi M., Alfieri A.F. & Alfieri A.A. 2007. [Phylogenetic analysis of bovine papillomavirus associated with skin warts in cattle herds from the state of Paraná.] Análise filogenética do papilomavírus bovino associado a lesões cutâneas em rebanhos do Estado do Paraná. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(7):314-318. Laboratório de Virologia Animal, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Centro de Ciências Agrárias, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Cx. Postal 6001, Campus Universitário, Londrina, PR 86051-990, Brazil. E-mail: alfieri@uel.br Bovine papillomavirus (BPV) infection causes hyperplastic lesions in the cutaneous epithelium of cattle. Six types of BPV were classified in two sub-groups, being correlated to the anatomical regions of the infection and morphologic characteristics of the lesions. The present study was carried out to identify the types of BPV present in skin warts of cattle from the state of Paraná, Brazil. The generic primers FAP59 and FAP64 were used for amplification of a 478 bp fragment of BPV L1 gene in nine cutaneous papilloma samples obtained from six animals in four herds. In all papillomas examined, a product with the expected molecular size was amplified. Phylogenetic analysis of the PCR products identified BPV-2 in three samples, BPV-1 in one, and BPV-6 in five papillomas. BPV-6 was detected in cutaneous papillomas of the teat and in other body parts as well. In one animal, from which more than one sample was collected, a concomitant infection by BPV-1 and BPV-2 was identified. The five positive BPV-6 samples showed a nucleotide identity of 100% with the sequence of the reference strain available in GenBank. However, differences among BPV-2 and BPV-1 Brazilian samples and the respective reference sequences deposited in GenBank were observed. Molecular comparison of the two BPV-2 strains identified showed the involvement of two viral variants. This study revealed the diversity of BPV types circulating in the state of Paraná.