PESQUISA VETERINÁRIA BRASILEIRA

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Mendes H.M.F., Faleiros R.R., Vasconcelos A.C., Alves G.E.S. & Moore R.M. 2009. [Apoptosis in equine small colon subjected to experimental ischemia and reperfusion.] Apoptose no cólon menor eqüino submetido à isquemia e reperfusão experimentais. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(3):198-204. Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia Veterinárias, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Avenida Antônio Carlos 6627, Pampulha, Belo Horizonte, MG 31270-901, Brazil. E-mail: faleiros@ufmg.br Intestinal ischemia and reperfusion are important factors for mortality in horses. The objective of this study was to detect and to quantify apoptosis in the mucosa of equine small colon in a model of ischemia and reperfusion. The small colon was surgically exposed in twelve horses, and two intestinal segments were demarcated and subjected to 90 (SI) or 180 (SII) minutes of complete arteriovenous ischemia. Intestinal samples were collected before ischemia (control), at its end and after 90 and 180 minutes of reperfusion. Samples were histological processed and stained by hematoxylin and eosin (SI and SII) and by the technique of TUNEL (SI). Digitized histological images were analyzed morphometrically to detect apoptotic cells and to determine the apoptotic index (AI). After 90 or 180 minutes of arteriovenous ischemia, an increase in apoptotic cells was verified when compared with the control group, although no difference could be detected between the different periods of ischemia (P<0.05). After the first 90 minutes of reperfusion, a decrease in AI occurred, similar in both segments, possibly due to lack of energy source promoted by ischemia. AI was maximized after 180 minutes of reperfusion (sample harvested only in SI) (P<0.05). In conclusion, apoptosis is an important cause of cellular mucosal death in equine small colon ischemic obstruction, occurring early in ischemia, and later (after 90 minutes) in the reperfusion period.

• Horse small colon apoptosis ischemia and reperfusion

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Mendes H.M.F., Faleiros R.R., Vasconcelos A.C., Alves G.E.S. & Moore R.M. 2009. [Apoptosis in equine small colon subjected to experimental ischemia and reperfusion.] Apoptose no cólon menor eqüino submetido à isquemia e reperfusão experimentais. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(3):198-204. Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia Veterinárias, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Avenida Antônio Carlos 6627, Pampulha, Belo Horizonte, MG 31270-901, Brazil. E-mail: faleiros@ufmg.br Intestinal ischemia and reperfusion are important factors for mortality in horses. The objective of this study was to detect and to quantify apoptosis in the mucosa of equine small colon in a model of ischemia and reperfusion. The small colon was surgically exposed in twelve horses, and two intestinal segments were demarcated and subjected to 90 (SI) or 180 (SII) minutes of complete arteriovenous ischemia. Intestinal samples were collected before ischemia (control), at its end and after 90 and 180 minutes of reperfusion. Samples were histological processed and stained by hematoxylin and eosin (SI and SII) and by the technique of TUNEL (SI). Digitized histological images were analyzed morphometrically to detect apoptotic cells and to determine the apoptotic index (AI). After 90 or 180 minutes of arteriovenous ischemia, an increase in apoptotic cells was verified when compared with the control group, although no difference could be detected between the different periods of ischemia (P<0.05). After the first 90 minutes of reperfusion, a decrease in AI occurred, similar in both segments, possibly due to lack of energy source promoted by ischemia. AI was maximized after 180 minutes of reperfusion (sample harvested only in SI) (P<0.05). In conclusion, apoptosis is an important cause of cellular mucosal death in equine small colon ischemic obstruction, occurring early in ischemia, and later (after 90 minutes) in the reperfusion period.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Pagliosa G.M., Alves G.E.S., Faleiros R.R., Matos J.R.T., Torres M.B., Mendes H.M.F. & Costa R.S. 2009. [Use of glutamine to treatment of ischemia and reperfusion lesions in equine jejune.] Utilização da glutamina no tratamento de lesões de isquemia e reperfusão no jejuno em eqüinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(3):246-252. Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia Veterinárias, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Ave-nida Antônio Carlos 6627, Caixa Postal 567, Belo Horizonte, MG 30123-970, Brazil. E-mail: geanepagliosa@gmail.com Under general anesthesia and arterial pressure control, twelve horses were submitted simultaneously to intraluminal distension and venous ischemia of jejune for 2 hours, followed by 12 hours of reperfusion. Six horses were treated with intravenous 2% glutamine (50mg/kg), and six others were treated with the same volume of saline solution 1h after the beginning of ischemia and 6 hours after reperfusion. Intestinal samples were collected before and after 2 hours of ischemia and after 2 and 12 hours of reperfusion, and were submitted to hystopatological analyses, ultrastructural examination, measurement of area and number of villi per mm2, and to myeloperoxidases activity. No statistical differences between the groups were found. It was concluded that glutamine did not attenuate the ischemia and reperfusion lesions under the methodology used in this study.

• Intestine ischemia and reperfusion colic glutamine equine

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Pagliosa G.M., Alves G.E.S., Faleiros R.R., Matos J.R.T., Torres M.B., Mendes H.M.F. & Costa R.S. 2009. [Use of glutamine to treatment of ischemia and reperfusion lesions in equine jejune.] Utilização da glutamina no tratamento de lesões de isquemia e reperfusão no jejuno em eqüinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(3):246-252. Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia Veterinárias, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Ave-nida Antônio Carlos 6627, Caixa Postal 567, Belo Horizonte, MG 30123-970, Brazil. E-mail: geanepagliosa@gmail.com Under general anesthesia and arterial pressure control, twelve horses were submitted simultaneously to intraluminal distension and venous ischemia of jejune for 2 hours, followed by 12 hours of reperfusion. Six horses were treated with intravenous 2% glutamine (50mg/kg), and six others were treated with the same volume of saline solution 1h after the beginning of ischemia and 6 hours after reperfusion. Intestinal samples were collected before and after 2 hours of ischemia and after 2 and 12 hours of reperfusion, and were submitted to hystopatological analyses, ultrastructural examination, measurement of area and number of villi per mm2, and to myeloperoxidases activity. No statistical differences between the groups were found. It was concluded that glutamine did not attenuate the ischemia and reperfusion lesions under the methodology used in this study.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Carvalho D., Oliveira T.M.F.S., Baldani C.D. & Machado R.Z. 2009. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for the detection of IgM antibodies against Leishmania chagasi in dogs. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(2):120-124. Departamento de Patologia Veterinária, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Via de Acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane s/n, Jaboticabal, SP 14870-000, Brazil. E-mail: zacarias@fcav.unesp.br Visceral leishmaniasis is an emergent zoonosis with an increasing number of new cases in Brazil where the domestic dog is an important parasite reservoir in the infectious cycle of Leishmania chagasi. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), based upon the use of a total soluble antigenic preparation of L. chagasi, was adapted for the detection of IgM antibodies in the serum of infected dogs. Optimal dilutions of the antigen, using positive and negative reference sera, were determined by checkboard titrations. The specificity and sensitivity of the ELISA were 100 %. A total of 110 serum samples were taken from dogs in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil, and examined for anti-L. chagasi IgM antibody by ELISA and indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT). About 25% (n=27) of all the dogs tested were found serologically positive for L. chagasi by IFAT, while 89.09% (n=98) were seropositive by ELISA. The results obtained by ELISA and IFAT were significantly different (P<0.01). The combined use of ELISA and IFAT is recommended in order to enable veterinary services to more efficiently detect canine visceral leishmaniasis.

• Leishmania chagasi diagnosis dogs IgM enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Carvalho D., Oliveira T.M.F.S., Baldani C.D. & Machado R.Z. 2009. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for the detection of IgM antibodies against Leishmania chagasi in dogs. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(2):120-124. Departamento de Patologia Veterinária, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Via de Acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane s/n, Jaboticabal, SP 14870-000, Brazil. E-mail: zacarias@fcav.unesp.br Visceral leishmaniasis is an emergent zoonosis with an increasing number of new cases in Brazil where the domestic dog is an important parasite reservoir in the infectious cycle of Leishmania chagasi. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), based upon the use of a total soluble antigenic preparation of L. chagasi, was adapted for the detection of IgM antibodies in the serum of infected dogs. Optimal dilutions of the antigen, using positive and negative reference sera, were determined by checkboard titrations. The specificity and sensitivity of the ELISA were 100 %. A total of 110 serum samples were taken from dogs in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil, and examined for anti-L. chagasi IgM antibody by ELISA and indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT). About 25% (n=27) of all the dogs tested were found serologically positive for L. chagasi by IFAT, while 89.09% (n=98) were seropositive by ELISA. The results obtained by ELISA and IFAT were significantly different (P<0.01). The combined use of ELISA and IFAT is recommended in order to enable veterinary services to more efficiently detect canine visceral leishmaniasis.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Souza A.I., Oliveira T.M.F.S., Machado R.Z. & Camacho A.A. 2009. [Seroprevalence of infection by Trypanosoma cruzi in dogs in a rural area of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil.] Soroprevalência da infecção por Trypanosoma cruzi em cães de uma área rural do Estado de Mato Grosso do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(2):150-152. Curso de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade para o Desenvolvimento do Estado e da Região do Pantanal, Rua Alexandre Herculano 1400, Jardim Veraneio, Campo Grande, MS 79037-280, Brazil. E-mail: aldaizabel@hotmail.com Chagas disease is an anthropozoonosis caused by Trypanosoma cruzi and dogs are considered to be one of the main reservoirs of the disease in the South America. This study evaluates the occurrence of the infection caused by T. cruzi in dogs from a rural area of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. Indirect immunofluorescence test (IFI) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used in 75 dogs living in this area. The antibodies were detected in 45.3% (n=34) and 24.0% (n=18) with IFI and ELISA, respectively. The actual prevalence of the infection was confirmed as 22.7% (n=17) by the criterion of positivity in both tests. The results confirm T. cruzi infection in dogs in the region.

• Diseases of dogs Trypanosoma cruzi seroprevalence Mato Grosso do Sul

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Souza A.I., Oliveira T.M.F.S., Machado R.Z. & Camacho A.A. 2009. [Seroprevalence of infection by Trypanosoma cruzi in dogs in a rural area of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil.] Soroprevalência da infecção por Trypanosoma cruzi em cães de uma área rural do Estado de Mato Grosso do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(2):150-152. Curso de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade para o Desenvolvimento do Estado e da Região do Pantanal, Rua Alexandre Herculano 1400, Jardim Veraneio, Campo Grande, MS 79037-280, Brazil. E-mail: aldaizabel@hotmail.com Chagas disease is an anthropozoonosis caused by Trypanosoma cruzi and dogs are considered to be one of the main reservoirs of the disease in the South America. This study evaluates the occurrence of the infection caused by T. cruzi in dogs from a rural area of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. Indirect immunofluorescence test (IFI) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used in 75 dogs living in this area. The antibodies were detected in 45.3% (n=34) and 24.0% (n=18) with IFI and ELISA, respectively. The actual prevalence of the infection was confirmed as 22.7% (n=17) by the criterion of positivity in both tests. The results confirm T. cruzi infection in dogs in the region.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Pereira M.F., Peixoto R.M., Piatti R.M., Medeiros E.S., Mota I.O., Azevedo S.S. & Mota R.A. 2009. [Occurrence and risk factors for Chlamydophila abortus infection in sheep and goats in Pernambuco.] Ocorrência e fatores de risco para Chlamydophila abortus em ovinos e caprinos no estado de Pernambuco. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(1):33-40. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, Rua Dom Manoel de Medeiros s/n, Recife, PE 52.171-900, Brazil. E-mail: marcia.pereira@dmv.ufrpe.br The study aimed to identify risk factors associated with Chlamydophila abortus infection in sheep and goats from the Litoral/Zona da Mata and Agreste region of Pernambuco state, Brazil. Serum samples (n=290) were analyzed to detect Chlamydophila spp. antibodies in 12 farms. Questionnaires were applied to identify risk factors. Frequency of serum-reactive animals were 10.3% (12.0% in ewes and 8.1% in goats) and 1/12 (91.6%) infection focuses were identified. This is the first report on anti-Chlamydophhila abortus antibodies in goats and sheep in Pernambuco and Brazil, respectively. Risk factors associated with goat infection were breed (OR=9.10) and management (OR=6.41). No significant associations in any of the analyzed factors were found for sheep. In summary, Chlamydophila sp. infection is disseminated in sheep and goat herds in the region. Control measures should be established, focusing primarily risk factor identified in this study, to reduce the possibility of infection by the agent.

• Complement Fixation Test Chlamydophila abortus risk factors

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Pereira M.F., Peixoto R.M., Piatti R.M., Medeiros E.S., Mota I.O., Azevedo S.S. & Mota R.A. 2009. [Occurrence and risk factors for Chlamydophila abortus infection in sheep and goats in Pernambuco.] Ocorrência e fatores de risco para Chlamydophila abortus em ovinos e caprinos no estado de Pernambuco. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(1):33-40. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, Rua Dom Manoel de Medeiros s/n, Recife, PE 52.171-900, Brazil. E-mail: marcia.pereira@dmv.ufrpe.br The study aimed to identify risk factors associated with Chlamydophila abortus infection in sheep and goats from the Litoral/Zona da Mata and Agreste region of Pernambuco state, Brazil. Serum samples (n=290) were analyzed to detect Chlamydophila spp. antibodies in 12 farms. Questionnaires were applied to identify risk factors. Frequency of serum-reactive animals were 10.3% (12.0% in ewes and 8.1% in goats) and 1/12 (91.6%) infection focuses were identified. This is the first report on anti-Chlamydophhila abortus antibodies in goats and sheep in Pernambuco and Brazil, respectively. Risk factors associated with goat infection were breed (OR=9.10) and management (OR=6.41). No significant associations in any of the analyzed factors were found for sheep. In summary, Chlamydophila sp. infection is disseminated in sheep and goat herds in the region. Control measures should be established, focusing primarily risk factor identified in this study, to reduce the possibility of infection by the agent.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Silva Júnior A., Castro L.A., Chiarelli Neto O., Silva F.M.F., Vidigal P.M.P., Moraes M.P. & Almeida M.R. 2009. Development and evaluation of a recombinant DNA vaccine candidate expressing porcine circovirus 2 structural protein. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(1):76-82. Laboratório de Infectologia Molecular Animal, Instituto de Biotecnologia Aplicada à Agropecuária, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Av. PH Rolfs s/n, Campus Universitário, Viçosa, MG 36570-000, Brazil. E-mail: marcia@ufv.br Porcine circovirus 2 (PCV2) is generally associated with the porcine circovirosis syndrome, which is considered an important disease of swine and has potentially serious economic impact on the swine industry worldwide. This article describes the construction of a recombinant plasmid expressing the PCV2 structural protein and the evaluation of cellular and humoral immune responses produced by this recombinant vaccine in BALB/c mice. The vaccine candidate was obtained and analyzed in vivo, in an effort to determine the ability to induce a specific immune response in mice. DNA was extracted from a Brazilian PCV2 isolate and the gene coding for Cap protein was amplified by PCR and inserted into an expression plasmid. Groups of BALB/c mice were inoculated intra-muscularly and intradermally in a 15-day interval, with 100 µg and 50 µg of the vaccine construct, respectively. Another group was inoculated intramuscularly with 100 µg of empty plasmid, corresponding to the control group. Seroconversion and cellular response in BALB/c mice were compared and used for vaccine evaluation. Seroconversion was analyzed by ELISA. After a series of 3 immunizations the spleen cells of the immunized animals were used to perform lymphocyte proliferation assays. Seroconversion to PCV2 was detected by ELISA in the animals inoculated with the vaccine construct when compared with control groups. Lymphocyte proliferation assays showed a stronger cell proliferation in the inoculated animals compared with the control group. Thus, the vaccine candidate construct demonstrated to be able to induce both humoral and cellular responses in inoculated mice.

• PCV2 DNA vaccine porcine circovirosis

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Silva Júnior A., Castro L.A., Chiarelli Neto O., Silva F.M.F., Vidigal P.M.P., Moraes M.P. & Almeida M.R. 2009. Development and evaluation of a recombinant DNA vaccine candidate expressing porcine circovirus 2 structural protein. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(1):76-82. Laboratório de Infectologia Molecular Animal, Instituto de Biotecnologia Aplicada à Agropecuária, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Av. PH Rolfs s/n, Campus Universitário, Viçosa, MG 36570-000, Brazil. E-mail: marcia@ufv.br Porcine circovirus 2 (PCV2) is generally associated with the porcine circovirosis syndrome, which is considered an important disease of swine and has potentially serious economic impact on the swine industry worldwide. This article describes the construction of a recombinant plasmid expressing the PCV2 structural protein and the evaluation of cellular and humoral immune responses produced by this recombinant vaccine in BALB/c mice. The vaccine candidate was obtained and analyzed in vivo, in an effort to determine the ability to induce a specific immune response in mice. DNA was extracted from a Brazilian PCV2 isolate and the gene coding for Cap protein was amplified by PCR and inserted into an expression plasmid. Groups of BALB/c mice were inoculated intra-muscularly and intradermally in a 15-day interval, with 100 µg and 50 µg of the vaccine construct, respectively. Another group was inoculated intramuscularly with 100 µg of empty plasmid, corresponding to the control group. Seroconversion and cellular response in BALB/c mice were compared and used for vaccine evaluation. Seroconversion was analyzed by ELISA. After a series of 3 immunizations the spleen cells of the immunized animals were used to perform lymphocyte proliferation assays. Seroconversion to PCV2 was detected by ELISA in the animals inoculated with the vaccine construct when compared with control groups. Lymphocyte proliferation assays showed a stronger cell proliferation in the inoculated animals compared with the control group. Thus, the vaccine candidate construct demonstrated to be able to induce both humoral and cellular responses in inoculated mice.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Freitas M.F.L., Luz I.S., Silveira-Filho V.M., Júnior J.W.P., Stamford T.L.M., Mota R.A., Sena M.J., Almeida A.M.P., Balbino V.Q. & Leal-Balbino T.C. 2008. Staphylococcal toxin genes in milk samples from cows diagnosed with subclinical mastitis. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(12):617-621. Centro de Pesquisas Aggeu Magalhães, Fiocruz, Av. Prof. Moraes Rego s/n, Campus da Cidade Universitária, Recife, PE 50670-420, Brazil. E-mail: cristina@cpqam.fiocruz.br The present study was carried out in 11 dairy herds in four municipal districts of the rural area of the State of Pernambuco, Brazil. Out of 984 quarter milk (246 cows), 10 (1.0%) were positive for clinical mastitis, 562 (57.1%) for subclinical mastitis and 412 (41.9%) were negative. A total of 81 Staphylococcus spp. isolates were obtained from milk samples from the cows diagnosed with subclinical mastitis. From these, 53 (65.0%) were S. aureus, 16 (20.0%) coagulase-positive staphylococci (CPS) and 12 (15.0%) coagulase-negative staphylococci (CNS). The isolates were further investigated for the presence of toxin genes by multiplex and uniplex PCR. The main gene observed was seg followed by seh, sei and sej. The distribution of these observed genes among the isolates obtained from different areas showed a regional pattern for the SEs. The presence of toxin genes in the strains isolated from bovine milk demonstrates a potential problem for public health.

• Staphylococcal toxins toxin genes milk dairy cows

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Freitas M.F.L., Luz I.S., Silveira-Filho V.M., Júnior J.W.P., Stamford T.L.M., Mota R.A., Sena M.J., Almeida A.M.P., Balbino V.Q. & Leal-Balbino T.C. 2008. Staphylococcal toxin genes in milk samples from cows diagnosed with subclinical mastitis. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(12):617-621. Centro de Pesquisas Aggeu Magalhães, Fiocruz, Av. Prof. Moraes Rego s/n, Campus da Cidade Universitária, Recife, PE 50670-420, Brazil. E-mail: cristina@cpqam.fiocruz.br The present study was carried out in 11 dairy herds in four municipal districts of the rural area of the State of Pernambuco, Brazil. Out of 984 quarter milk (246 cows), 10 (1.0%) were positive for clinical mastitis, 562 (57.1%) for subclinical mastitis and 412 (41.9%) were negative. A total of 81 Staphylococcus spp. isolates were obtained from milk samples from the cows diagnosed with subclinical mastitis. From these, 53 (65.0%) were S. aureus, 16 (20.0%) coagulase-positive staphylococci (CPS) and 12 (15.0%) coagulase-negative staphylococci (CNS). The isolates were further investigated for the presence of toxin genes by multiplex and uniplex PCR. The main gene observed was seg followed by seh, sei and sej. The distribution of these observed genes among the isolates obtained from different areas showed a regional pattern for the SEs. The presence of toxin genes in the strains isolated from bovine milk demonstrates a potential problem for public health.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Tokarnia C.H., Brito M.F., Malafaia P. & Peixoto P.V. 2008. [Snake bite accident in sheep by Bothrops jararaca.] Acidente ofídico em ovinos causado por Bothrops jara-raca. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(12):643-648. Projeto Sanidade Animal Embrapa/ UFRRJ, Seropédica, Rio de Janeiro 23890-000, Brazil. E-mail: tokarnia@ufrrj.br The occurrence of a snake bite accident in a herd of mixed Bergamascia sheep in the county of Miguel Pereira, State of Rio de Janeiro, is reported. Four adult sheep were bitten in the head by Bothrops jararaca within a short period of time. Their head was severely swollen, but the general state of them was good. One of the sheep was euthanasied. Masssive hemorrhages were found beneath the skin, which extended to the neck. Histologically, the subcutaneous hemorrhages infiltrated the adjacent muscles. In areas where the hemorrhages were more intense they caused separation of muscle fibers, some of which had a hyaline aspect. Differences in the occurrence of edema/hemorraghes and necrosis in snake bite accidents, caused by various snake species in different animal species, are discussed.

• Snake bites Bothrops jararaca sheep

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Tokarnia C.H., Brito M.F., Malafaia P. & Peixoto P.V. 2008. [Snake bite accident in sheep by Bothrops jararaca.] Acidente ofídico em ovinos causado por Bothrops jara-raca. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(12):643-648. Projeto Sanidade Animal Embrapa/ UFRRJ, Seropédica, Rio de Janeiro 23890-000, Brazil. E-mail: tokarnia@ufrrj.br The occurrence of a snake bite accident in a herd of mixed Bergamascia sheep in the county of Miguel Pereira, State of Rio de Janeiro, is reported. Four adult sheep were bitten in the head by Bothrops jararaca within a short period of time. Their head was severely swollen, but the general state of them was good. One of the sheep was euthanasied. Masssive hemorrhages were found beneath the skin, which extended to the neck. Histologically, the subcutaneous hemorrhages infiltrated the adjacent muscles. In areas where the hemorrhages were more intense they caused separation of muscle fibers, some of which had a hyaline aspect. Differences in the occurrence of edema/hemorraghes and necrosis in snake bite accidents, caused by various snake species in different animal species, are discussed.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Caldas S.A., Tokarnia C.H., França T.N., Brito M.F., Graça F.A.S., Coelho C.D. & Peixoto P.V. 2008. [Clinic and pathological and laboratory aspects of experimental poisoning by Bothrops alternatus venom in cattle.] Aspectos clínico-patológicos e laboratoriais do envenenamento experimental por Bothrops alternatus em bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(6):303-312. Projeto Sanidade Animal Embrapa/UFRRJ, Seropédica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil. E-mail: saulo-andrade@bol.com.br The aim of this study was to determine the clinical-pathological alterations and laboratory findings in cattle inoculated with Bothrops alternatus venom, with the intention of providing information for the establishment of diagnosis and differential diagnosis procedures, as well as to elucidate some obscurities observed in the pertinent literature. The lyophilized venom was diluted in 1 ml of physiologic solution. It was administered to 5 bovines by the subcutaneous route at doses of 0.0625, 0.125 and 0.25mg/kg body weight, and to 2 bovines by the intramuscular route at doses of 0.25 e 0.45mg/kg. Six bovines died and the only animal that survived, who had subcutaneously received the venom at a dose of 0.0625mg/kg, recovered. The first clinical signs were observed from 25min to 5h30min after the inoculation. The clinical evolution time varied from 7 hours 18 minutes to 92 hours. Regardless of the dose, the clinical picture was characterized by swelling (hemorrhage/hematoma) at the site of inoculation, increase in bleeding time and capillary refill time, paleness of mucous membranes and apathy. The laboratory exams revealed progressive normocytic normochromic anemia, thrombocytopenia, reduction in fibrinogen and total plasma proteins, decreased hematocrit and hemoglobin, and slight increase in creatine kinase and lactate dehydrogenase. When subjected to necropsy, the animals that received the venom through the subcutaneous route showed large hematomas and hemorrhagic areas in the subcutaneous tissue, extending from the site of inoculation. The animals in which inoculation was performed intramuscularly exhibited, in addition, intramuscular hemorrhage. The left endocardium showed extensive hemorrhagic lesions, and petechiae were found on the serosae of rumen, omasum, abomasum and gall bladder. The colon, rectum and perirenal areas were surrounded by clotted blood in three animals. Besides hemorrhage, the histological examination revealed hemorrhage and coagulative muscle necrosis in the vicinities of the inoculation site in the animals that received the venom by the intramuscular route. These lesions were mild in the muscles close to the site of inoculation in the animals inoculated by the subcutaneous route. The swelling on the site of inoculation and its surroundings was a consequence of blood accumulation and not merely edema. Myoglobinuria and gross or microscopic lesions were not observed in the kidneys. This study indicates that B. alternatus can lead adult bovines to death if they release all their venom during a bite. Conversely, since venomous ophidians can control the amount of poison they inoculate and they probably do not identify bovines as potential preys, it is likely that the number of accidents involving this species is small, which is in agreement with the findings of the majority of the centers for anatomical-pathological diagnosis in Brazil.

• Bothrops alternatus cattle pathology symptoms

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Caldas S.A., Tokarnia C.H., França T.N., Brito M.F., Graça F.A.S., Coelho C.D. & Peixoto P.V. 2008. [Clinic and pathological and laboratory aspects of experimental poisoning by Bothrops alternatus venom in cattle.] Aspectos clínico-patológicos e laboratoriais do envenenamento experimental por Bothrops alternatus em bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(6):303-312. Projeto Sanidade Animal Embrapa/UFRRJ, Seropédica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil. E-mail: saulo-andrade@bol.com.br The aim of this study was to determine the clinical-pathological alterations and laboratory findings in cattle inoculated with Bothrops alternatus venom, with the intention of providing information for the establishment of diagnosis and differential diagnosis procedures, as well as to elucidate some obscurities observed in the pertinent literature. The lyophilized venom was diluted in 1 ml of physiologic solution. It was administered to 5 bovines by the subcutaneous route at doses of 0.0625, 0.125 and 0.25mg/kg body weight, and to 2 bovines by the intramuscular route at doses of 0.25 e 0.45mg/kg. Six bovines died and the only animal that survived, who had subcutaneously received the venom at a dose of 0.0625mg/kg, recovered. The first clinical signs were observed from 25min to 5h30min after the inoculation. The clinical evolution time varied from 7 hours 18 minutes to 92 hours. Regardless of the dose, the clinical picture was characterized by swelling (hemorrhage/hematoma) at the site of inoculation, increase in bleeding time and capillary refill time, paleness of mucous membranes and apathy. The laboratory exams revealed progressive normocytic normochromic anemia, thrombocytopenia, reduction in fibrinogen and total plasma proteins, decreased hematocrit and hemoglobin, and slight increase in creatine kinase and lactate dehydrogenase. When subjected to necropsy, the animals that received the venom through the subcutaneous route showed large hematomas and hemorrhagic areas in the subcutaneous tissue, extending from the site of inoculation. The animals in which inoculation was performed intramuscularly exhibited, in addition, intramuscular hemorrhage. The left endocardium showed extensive hemorrhagic lesions, and petechiae were found on the serosae of rumen, omasum, abomasum and gall bladder. The colon, rectum and perirenal areas were surrounded by clotted blood in three animals. Besides hemorrhage, the histological examination revealed hemorrhage and coagulative muscle necrosis in the vicinities of the inoculation site in the animals that received the venom by the intramuscular route. These lesions were mild in the muscles close to the site of inoculation in the animals inoculated by the subcutaneous route. The swelling on the site of inoculation and its surroundings was a consequence of blood accumulation and not merely edema. Myoglobinuria and gross or microscopic lesions were not observed in the kidneys. This study indicates that B. alternatus can lead adult bovines to death if they release all their venom during a bite. Conversely, since venomous ophidians can control the amount of poison they inoculate and they probably do not identify bovines as potential preys, it is likely that the number of accidents involving this species is small, which is in agreement with the findings of the majority of the centers for anatomical-pathological diagnosis in Brazil.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Carvalho M.A.M., Azevedo L.M., Menezes D.J.A., Oliveira M.F., Assis Neto A.C., Cardoso F.T.S. & Teixeira M.C.O. 2008. [Anatomical-surgical arterial segments of the kidney in agouti (Dasyprocta prymnolopha).] Segmentos anátomo-cirúrgicos arteriais do rim de cutia (Dasyprocta prymnolopha). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(5):249-252. Departamento de Morfofisiologia Veterinária, Centro de Ciências Agrárias, Universidade Federal do Piauí, Teresina, PI 64049-550, Brazil. E-mail: carvalhomam@uol.com.br Twenty pairs of agouti (Dasyprocta prymnolopha Wagler, 1831) kidneys were studied to describe the arterial anatomical-surgical segments. The renal arteries were injected with stained acetate vinyl, followed by procedures of acid corrosion in order to obtain vascular casts. It was found that the renal artery is always single and bifurcated into ventral and dorsal sectorial arteries. The sectorial arteries reached the kidneys (100% of the cases) through the hilus. These vessels gave origin to segmental branches responsible for kidney irrigation. At the right kidney, the ventral sectorial arteries gave origin to 3 (60% of the cases), 4 (35%) and 5 (5%) segmental branches; the dorsal sectorial arteries gave origin to 3 (30%), 4 (45%), 5 (20%) and 6 (5%) segmental arteries separated by a vascular sector. At the left kidney, the ventral sectorial arteries originated 2 (10%), 3 (55%) or 4 (35%) segmental branches; the dorsal sectorial arteries gave origin to 3 (25%), 4 (50%) and 5 (25%) segmental branches. Based on the arterial distribution of agouti kidneys, independent sections and arterial segments were found, so that it is possible to accomplish partial kidney resection surgery.

• Dasyprocta prymnolopha agouti kidney vascularization arteries

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Carvalho M.A.M., Azevedo L.M., Menezes D.J.A., Oliveira M.F., Assis Neto A.C., Cardoso F.T.S. & Teixeira M.C.O. 2008. [Anatomical-surgical arterial segments of the kidney in agouti (Dasyprocta prymnolopha).] Segmentos anátomo-cirúrgicos arteriais do rim de cutia (Dasyprocta prymnolopha). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(5):249-252. Departamento de Morfofisiologia Veterinária, Centro de Ciências Agrárias, Universidade Federal do Piauí, Teresina, PI 64049-550, Brazil. E-mail: carvalhomam@uol.com.br Twenty pairs of agouti (Dasyprocta prymnolopha Wagler, 1831) kidneys were studied to describe the arterial anatomical-surgical segments. The renal arteries were injected with stained acetate vinyl, followed by procedures of acid corrosion in order to obtain vascular casts. It was found that the renal artery is always single and bifurcated into ventral and dorsal sectorial arteries. The sectorial arteries reached the kidneys (100% of the cases) through the hilus. These vessels gave origin to segmental branches responsible for kidney irrigation. At the right kidney, the ventral sectorial arteries gave origin to 3 (60% of the cases), 4 (35%) and 5 (5%) segmental branches; the dorsal sectorial arteries gave origin to 3 (30%), 4 (45%), 5 (20%) and 6 (5%) segmental arteries separated by a vascular sector. At the left kidney, the ventral sectorial arteries originated 2 (10%), 3 (55%) or 4 (35%) segmental branches; the dorsal sectorial arteries gave origin to 3 (25%), 4 (50%) and 5 (25%) segmental branches. Based on the arterial distribution of agouti kidneys, independent sections and arterial segments were found, so that it is possible to accomplish partial kidney resection surgery.