PESQUISA VETERINÁRIA BRASILEIRA

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Conceição R.A., Ambrósio C.E., Martins D.S., Carvalho A.F., Franciolli A.L.R., Machado M.R.F., Oliveira M.F. & Miglino M.A. 2008. [Morphological aspects of yolk sac from rodents of Hystricomorpha subordem: paca (Agouti paca) and agouti (Dasyprocta aguti).] Aspectos morfológicos do saco vitelino em dois roedores da subordem Hystricomorpha: paca (Agouti paca) e cutia (Dasyprocta aguti). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(5):253-259. Setor de Anatomia dos Animais Domésticos e Silvestres, Departamento de Cirurgia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia. Universidade de São Paulo, Cidade Universitária, Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, São Paulo, SP 05508-900, Brazil. E-mail: ceambrosio@usp.br The study aimed to characterize gross and microscopic features of the yolk sac in paca (Agouti paca) and agouti (Dasyprocta aguti) in early gestation. Fragments of the yolk sac of 3 paca and 3 agouti fetuses at early gestation were taken and processed for histological and ultrastructural analyses. Gross features of the vitelline placenta in both species showed its insertion over the main placenta surface and projections to the embryos/fetuses. Microscopically, the vitelline placenta was constituted by endoderm epithelium and mesenchyme, in which vitelline vessels are abundant. The ultrastructure of the samples showed that the visceral yolk sac of the paca was formed by endodermic cells with nuclei in the median region, and that the visceral yolk sac of the agouti was formed by nuclei arranged apically; other characteristic was the large number of mitochondrias, eletrodense vesicles with microvilosities We conclude that (1) the vitelline placenta of the two species presents insertion in the surface of the main placenta; (2) the vitelline placenta of paca rests on the Reichert’s membrane, whereas the agouti vitelline placenta does not have this membrane; (3) the chorion and allantoic are fusioned; and (4) the chorioallantoic placenta and the yolk sac in both species are reversed and vascularized.

• Hystricomorpha Agouti paca Dasyprota aguti yolk sac

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Conceição R.A., Ambrósio C.E., Martins D.S., Carvalho A.F., Franciolli A.L.R., Machado M.R.F., Oliveira M.F. & Miglino M.A. 2008. [Morphological aspects of yolk sac from rodents of Hystricomorpha subordem: paca (Agouti paca) and agouti (Dasyprocta aguti).] Aspectos morfológicos do saco vitelino em dois roedores da subordem Hystricomorpha: paca (Agouti paca) e cutia (Dasyprocta aguti). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(5):253-259. Setor de Anatomia dos Animais Domésticos e Silvestres, Departamento de Cirurgia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia. Universidade de São Paulo, Cidade Universitária, Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, São Paulo, SP 05508-900, Brazil. E-mail: ceambrosio@usp.br The study aimed to characterize gross and microscopic features of the yolk sac in paca (Agouti paca) and agouti (Dasyprocta aguti) in early gestation. Fragments of the yolk sac of 3 paca and 3 agouti fetuses at early gestation were taken and processed for histological and ultrastructural analyses. Gross features of the vitelline placenta in both species showed its insertion over the main placenta surface and projections to the embryos/fetuses. Microscopically, the vitelline placenta was constituted by endoderm epithelium and mesenchyme, in which vitelline vessels are abundant. The ultrastructure of the samples showed that the visceral yolk sac of the paca was formed by endodermic cells with nuclei in the median region, and that the visceral yolk sac of the agouti was formed by nuclei arranged apically; other characteristic was the large number of mitochondrias, eletrodense vesicles with microvilosities We conclude that (1) the vitelline placenta of the two species presents insertion in the surface of the main placenta; (2) the vitelline placenta of paca rests on the Reichert’s membrane, whereas the agouti vitelline placenta does not have this membrane; (3) the chorion and allantoic are fusioned; and (4) the chorioallantoic placenta and the yolk sac in both species are reversed and vascularized.

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

• Brachial plexus neuroanatomy wild animals

Abstract in Portuguese:

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

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Esposto E.M., Silva W.C.P., Reis C.M.F., Reis E.M.F., Ribeiro R.V., Rodrigues D.P. & Lázaro N.S. 2007. [Bacterial enteropathogens from fishes of a nutrient recycle system and its ecosystem.] Enteropatógenos bacterianos em peixes criados em uma estação de reciclagem de nutrientes e no ecossistema relacionado. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(4):144-148. Departamento de Bacteriologia, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, FIOCruz, Av. Brasil 4365, Pav. Rocha Lima, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 21040-360, Brazil. E- mail: nslazaro@ioc.fiocruz.br The presence of bacterial enteropathogens from fishes of a nutrient recycle system from a Experimental Station in Petropolis, RJ, was evaluated in 72 samples from april 2000 to july 2001 Simultaneously was collected the mud used as organic manure and poultry beds localized next to the tanks. The isolation procedures included preenrichment in Peptone Water followed by enrichment with alcaline Peptone Water (pH 8.4-8.6), and streaked onto GSP Agar for the isolation of Aeromonas spp. and Plesiomonas shigelloides. For enteropathogenic bacteria of the Enterobacteriaceae family, 1ml samples were transferred for enrichment in Rappaport- Vassiladis broth and Kauffmann Tetrathionate Broth followed by streak onto Hektoen Enteric Agar and Salmonella-Shigella Agar. Simultaneously at each visit samples of water from fish and macrophyte tanks were collected for monitoring faecal coliforms (MPN) using A1 medium. Among the 116 isolates, Aeromonas spp. were the most frequent (67.2%) with 9 species (A. veronii, biogroup sobria, A. hidrophila, A. sobria, A. trota, A. eucrenophila, A. veronii biog. veronii, A. media, A. cavia and A. jandaei), followed by Edwardsiella tarda (16.4%), Plesiomonas shigelloides (12.9%) and Salmonella spp. (3.4%). The NMP of fecal coliforms showed higher values in the fish tanks (>1800/100ml).

• Enteropathogens wastewater fish farming

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Esposto E.M., Silva W.C.P., Reis C.M.F., Reis E.M.F., Ribeiro R.V., Rodrigues D.P. & Lázaro N.S. 2007. [Bacterial enteropathogens from fishes of a nutrient recycle system and its ecosystem.] Enteropatógenos bacterianos em peixes criados em uma estação de reciclagem de nutrientes e no ecossistema relacionado. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(4):144-148. Departamento de Bacteriologia, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, FIOCruz, Av. Brasil 4365, Pav. Rocha Lima, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 21040-360, Brazil. E- mail: nslazaro@ioc.fiocruz.br The presence of bacterial enteropathogens from fishes of a nutrient recycle system from a Experimental Station in Petropolis, RJ, was evaluated in 72 samples from april 2000 to july 2001 Simultaneously was collected the mud used as organic manure and poultry beds localized next to the tanks. The isolation procedures included preenrichment in Peptone Water followed by enrichment with alcaline Peptone Water (pH 8.4-8.6), and streaked onto GSP Agar for the isolation of Aeromonas spp. and Plesiomonas shigelloides. For enteropathogenic bacteria of the Enterobacteriaceae family, 1ml samples were transferred for enrichment in Rappaport- Vassiladis broth and Kauffmann Tetrathionate Broth followed by streak onto Hektoen Enteric Agar and Salmonella-Shigella Agar. Simultaneously at each visit samples of water from fish and macrophyte tanks were collected for monitoring faecal coliforms (MPN) using A1 medium. Among the 116 isolates, Aeromonas spp. were the most frequent (67.2%) with 9 species (A. veronii, biogroup sobria, A. hidrophila, A. sobria, A. trota, A. eucrenophila, A. veronii biog. veronii, A. media, A. cavia and A. jandaei), followed by Edwardsiella tarda (16.4%), Plesiomonas shigelloides (12.9%) and Salmonella spp. (3.4%). The NMP of fecal coliforms showed higher values in the fish tanks (>1800/100ml).

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Boghossian M.R., Peixoto P.V., Brito M.F. & Tokarnia C.H. 2007. [Experimental poisoning by Crotalaria mucronata (Fabaceae) seeds in cattle.] Aspectos clínico-patológicos da intoxicação experimental pelas sementes de Crotalaria mucronata (Fabaceae) em bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(4):149-156. Projeto Sanidade Animal Embrapa/UFRRJ, Seropédica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil. E-mail: mailto:mubogho@hotmail.com Experiments were performed to define the clinical and pathological picture of prolonged administration of the seeds of Crotalaria mucronata Desv. to cattle, in order to obtain additional information about this toxicosis. The ground seeds were administered orally to 9 bovines. Doses of 1g/kg/day, 2g/kg/day, 3g/kg/day each in one bovine, and 5g/kg/day in two of three bovines, given for 61- 63 days, did not cause poisoning. Doses of 5g/kg, in one bovine, 7.5g/kg in two bovines and 10g/kg in one bovine, given for 47-61 days, caused symptoms between 47 and 80 days after the first administration and caused death between 3 hours and 5 days after the onset of symptoms. The main clinical signs were positive venous pulse of the jugular vein, abdominal breath, tachycardia, loss of appetite, dry feces, sub-mandibular edema and weakness. Bovines that did not die, were slaughtered 8 or 9 months after first administration. At necropsy pulmonary paleness, hydropericardium, hydrothorax, hydroperitoneum, mesenteric edema, augmented hepatic consistency, discoloration of the liver, right cardiac ventricle dilatation and ruminal wall edema were seen. The main histological lesions were thickening of the alveolar walls and of the arterioles with narrowing of their lumen, and periarteriolar fibrosis, besides hepatic and cardiac lesions of minor importance. It is concluded, that the lesions caused by ingestion of the seeds of C. mucronata over a long period are caused by the difficulties of blood passage through the pulmonar vessels due to fibrosis and thickening of the arteriolar walls through the pneumotoxic action of the plant.

• Poisonous plants Crotalaria mucronata pyrrolizidine alkaloids interstitial pneumonia

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Boghossian M.R., Peixoto P.V., Brito M.F. & Tokarnia C.H. 2007. [Experimental poisoning by Crotalaria mucronata (Fabaceae) seeds in cattle.] Aspectos clínico-patológicos da intoxicação experimental pelas sementes de Crotalaria mucronata (Fabaceae) em bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(4):149-156. Projeto Sanidade Animal Embrapa/UFRRJ, Seropédica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil. E-mail: mailto:mubogho@hotmail.com Experiments were performed to define the clinical and pathological picture of prolonged administration of the seeds of Crotalaria mucronata Desv. to cattle, in order to obtain additional information about this toxicosis. The ground seeds were administered orally to 9 bovines. Doses of 1g/kg/day, 2g/kg/day, 3g/kg/day each in one bovine, and 5g/kg/day in two of three bovines, given for 61- 63 days, did not cause poisoning. Doses of 5g/kg, in one bovine, 7.5g/kg in two bovines and 10g/kg in one bovine, given for 47-61 days, caused symptoms between 47 and 80 days after the first administration and caused death between 3 hours and 5 days after the onset of symptoms. The main clinical signs were positive venous pulse of the jugular vein, abdominal breath, tachycardia, loss of appetite, dry feces, sub-mandibular edema and weakness. Bovines that did not die, were slaughtered 8 or 9 months after first administration. At necropsy pulmonary paleness, hydropericardium, hydrothorax, hydroperitoneum, mesenteric edema, augmented hepatic consistency, discoloration of the liver, right cardiac ventricle dilatation and ruminal wall edema were seen. The main histological lesions were thickening of the alveolar walls and of the arterioles with narrowing of their lumen, and periarteriolar fibrosis, besides hepatic and cardiac lesions of minor importance. It is concluded, that the lesions caused by ingestion of the seeds of C. mucronata over a long period are caused by the difficulties of blood passage through the pulmonar vessels due to fibrosis and thickening of the arteriolar walls through the pneumotoxic action of the plant.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Parizzi R.C., Miglino M.A., Maia M.O., Souza J.A., Santos J.M., Oliveira M.F. & Santos T.C. 2007. [Morphology of the ovary in rhea (Rhea americana).] Morfologia do ovário da ema (Rhea americana). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(3):89-94. Departamento de Cirurgia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, USP, Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, São Paulo, SP 05508-270. E-mail: tcsantos@usp.br The ovarian morphology of the sexually mature rhea (Rhea Americana) is described. Ovaries from 24 adult rheas in their reproductive age were collected in the slaughterhouse. Follicular diameters (n = 18) were measured and samples (n = 6) were fixed in 10% formaldehyde with 0.1M phosphate buffer at pH 7.4 for light microscopy. Results showed that the left ovary occupied the dorsal portion of the celomatic cavity in contact with the cranial portion of the left kidney and the suprarenal gland, being supported in the cavity through the mesovary. On the free surface of the ovary 72.4±17.09 follicles in different phases of development and 30.4±3.65 atretic follicles were observed. The follicles were linked to the ovarian surface by the follicular stalk and had a wide band surrounding its surface, the Stigma folliculare. Histologically, the ovary is constituted by a medulla, composed by connective tissue and vessels, and by a cortex with oocytes and follicles. The follicular wall is composed by the Theca externa and Theca interna, Stratum granulosum and the Zona radiata. The ovary surface is covered by a cubic epithelium, the germinal epithelium, on the connective tissue of the Tunica albuginea. The morphologic characteristics of the ovary of the rhea are due to the egg size in this species and generally similar to other birds.

• Ovary follicle morphology avian anatomy rhea Rhea americana

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Parizzi R.C., Miglino M.A., Maia M.O., Souza J.A., Santos J.M., Oliveira M.F. & Santos T.C. 2007. [Morphology of the ovary in rhea (Rhea americana).] Morfologia do ovário da ema (Rhea americana). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(3):89-94. Departamento de Cirurgia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, USP, Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, São Paulo, SP 05508-270. E-mail: tcsantos@usp.br The ovarian morphology of the sexually mature rhea (Rhea Americana) is described. Ovaries from 24 adult rheas in their reproductive age were collected in the slaughterhouse. Follicular diameters (n = 18) were measured and samples (n = 6) were fixed in 10% formaldehyde with 0.1M phosphate buffer at pH 7.4 for light microscopy. Results showed that the left ovary occupied the dorsal portion of the celomatic cavity in contact with the cranial portion of the left kidney and the suprarenal gland, being supported in the cavity through the mesovary. On the free surface of the ovary 72.4±17.09 follicles in different phases of development and 30.4±3.65 atretic follicles were observed. The follicles were linked to the ovarian surface by the follicular stalk and had a wide band surrounding its surface, the Stigma folliculare. Histologically, the ovary is constituted by a medulla, composed by connective tissue and vessels, and by a cortex with oocytes and follicles. The follicular wall is composed by the Theca externa and Theca interna, Stratum granulosum and the Zona radiata. The ovary surface is covered by a cubic epithelium, the germinal epithelium, on the connective tissue of the Tunica albuginea. The morphologic characteristics of the ovary of the rhea are due to the egg size in this species and generally similar to other birds.

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.- Seixas J.N., Peixoto P.V., Armién A.G., Jabour F.F. & Brito M.F. 2006. [Clinical and pathogenetic aspects of abamectin poisoning in calves.] Aspectos clínicos e patogenéticos da intoxicação por abamectina em bezerros. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(3):161-166. Pro-jeto Sanidade Animal Embrapa/UFRRJ, Km 47, Seropédica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil. E-mail: josiseixas@ufrrj.br Clinic-pathological aspects and the pathogenesis of experimental abamectin poisoning were studied, after subcutaneous administration of different abamectin doses in 9 calves, as well as the clini-cal and pathological aspects of 74 cases of the iatrogenic poisoning with this drug in cattle, which occurred in the states of Rio Grande do Sul, Pará, Maranhão, Paraíba and Mato Grosso do Sul. From the 9 calves submitted to experimental administration of single doses, 5 calves died (4 calves received doses 6-10 times higher than recommended, and one received the therapeutic daily dose during 11 days). Abamectin poisoning induces neurological dysfunctions, characterized by an initial phase of hyperexcitability, followed by widespread muscular hypotony and progressive depression. No macroscopic or microscopic alterations were observed in the central nervous system or in any other organ. It is concluded that abamectin is an antihelmintic which should be used with restriction, because of the risks leading to death when used in young calves, even in therapeutic doses.

• Abamectin poisoning neurological alterations calves

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Seixas J.N., Peixoto P.V., Armién A.G., Jabour F.F. & Brito M.F. 2006. [Clinical and pathogenetic aspects of abamectin poisoning in calves.] Aspectos clínicos e patogenéticos da intoxicação por abamectina em bezerros. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(3):161-166. Pro-jeto Sanidade Animal Embrapa/UFRRJ, Km 47, Seropédica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil. E-mail: josiseixas@ufrrj.br Clinic-pathological aspects and the pathogenesis of experimental abamectin poisoning were studied, after subcutaneous administration of different abamectin doses in 9 calves, as well as the clini-cal and pathological aspects of 74 cases of the iatrogenic poisoning with this drug in cattle, which occurred in the states of Rio Grande do Sul, Pará, Maranhão, Paraíba and Mato Grosso do Sul. From the 9 calves submitted to experimental administration of single doses, 5 calves died (4 calves received doses 6-10 times higher than recommended, and one received the therapeutic daily dose during 11 days). Abamectin poisoning induces neurological dysfunctions, characterized by an initial phase of hyperexcitability, followed by widespread muscular hypotony and progressive depression. No macroscopic or microscopic alterations were observed in the central nervous system or in any other organ. It is concluded that abamectin is an antihelmintic which should be used with restriction, because of the risks leading to death when used in young calves, even in therapeutic doses.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Jabour F.F., Seixas J.N., Tokarnia C.H. & Brito M.F. 2006. [Variation of the toxicity of Arrabidaea bilabiata (Bignoniaceae) in rabbits.] Variação da toxidez de Arrabidaea bilabiata (Bignoniaceae) em coelhos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(3):171-176. Projeto Sanidade Animal Embrapa/UFRRJ, Km 47, Seropédica, RJ 23.890-000, Brazil. E-mail: flaviajabour@bol.com.br The dried and powdered mature leaves and sprouts of Arrabidaea bilabiata (fam. Bignoniaceae), a liana or scandent shrub, were administered by stomach tube to 15 rabbits at doses of 0.25-6.0g/kg. The lowest dose of the sprouts collected in October (End of the dry season) causing death was 0.5g/kg, whilst the lowest lethal dose of sprouts collected in May (End of the rainy season) was 1.0g/kg. With the mature leaves collected in October the lowest lethal dose was of 4.0g/kg, and the lowest lethal dose of the mature leaves collected in May was 6.0g/kg. The clinical course of the poisoning was peracute. The rabbits all of a sudden fell down with struggling movements, difficult and spaced breathing, and died. At necropsy, significant alterations were not observed and histopatological examination showed, as the more important changes, vacuolar hydropic degeneration of epithelial cells of the distal convoluted renal tubules, diffuse vacuolation of the cytoplasm and necrosis of hepatocytes, presence of eosinophilic sphaerules in the sinusoids, groups of heart muscle fibers with increased eosinophilia, besides congestion in the kidneys, liver, heart and lungs. It was concluded that the toxicity of A. bilabiata varies according to the season of the year and the growth stage of the plant. The plant was most toxic in October and the sprouts were more toxic than the mature leaves, confirming the data previously obtained in experiments with cattle and buffalos.

• Poisonous plants Arrabidaea bilabiata Bignoniaceae plant poisoning rabbit pathology

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Jabour F.F., Seixas J.N., Tokarnia C.H. & Brito M.F. 2006. [Variation of the toxicity of Arrabidaea bilabiata (Bignoniaceae) in rabbits.] Variação da toxidez de Arrabidaea bilabiata (Bignoniaceae) em coelhos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(3):171-176. Projeto Sanidade Animal Embrapa/UFRRJ, Km 47, Seropédica, RJ 23.890-000, Brazil. E-mail: flaviajabour@bol.com.br The dried and powdered mature leaves and sprouts of Arrabidaea bilabiata (fam. Bignoniaceae), a liana or scandent shrub, were administered by stomach tube to 15 rabbits at doses of 0.25-6.0g/kg. The lowest dose of the sprouts collected in October (End of the dry season) causing death was 0.5g/kg, whilst the lowest lethal dose of sprouts collected in May (End of the rainy season) was 1.0g/kg. With the mature leaves collected in October the lowest lethal dose was of 4.0g/kg, and the lowest lethal dose of the mature leaves collected in May was 6.0g/kg. The clinical course of the poisoning was peracute. The rabbits all of a sudden fell down with struggling movements, difficult and spaced breathing, and died. At necropsy, significant alterations were not observed and histopatological examination showed, as the more important changes, vacuolar hydropic degeneration of epithelial cells of the distal convoluted renal tubules, diffuse vacuolation of the cytoplasm and necrosis of hepatocytes, presence of eosinophilic sphaerules in the sinusoids, groups of heart muscle fibers with increased eosinophilia, besides congestion in the kidneys, liver, heart and lungs. It was concluded that the toxicity of A. bilabiata varies according to the season of the year and the growth stage of the plant. The plant was most toxic in October and the sprouts were more toxic than the mature leaves, confirming the data previously obtained in experiments with cattle and buffalos.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Almeida A.P.M.G., Kommers G.D., Nogueira A.P.A., Júnior L.G.B., Marques B.M.F.P. & Lemos R.A.A. 2006. [Evaluation of the toxicity of Leucaena leucocephala (Leg. Mimosoi-deae) in sheep.] Avaliação do efeito tóxico de Leucaena leucocephala (Leg.Mimosoideae) em ovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(3):190-194. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Faculdade de Medicina Vetetinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, Av. Senador Filinto Müller 2443, Cx.Postal 549, Campo Grande, MS 79070-900, Brazil. E-mail: eqrural@nin.ufms.br An experiment was performed to evaluate the toxicity of Leucaena leucocephala for sheep. Two ewes and six lambs were divided into seven treatments and fed the plant. The adult ewes did not show clinical signs of poisoning. The 4 to 5-month-old lambs presented partial wool loss 6 days after beginning of the administration of the plant and total wool loss after 12 or 20 days. The age of the sheep in this experiment suggests resistance of adult ewes and susceptibility of young lambs to L. leucocaephala poisoning.

• Poisonous plants Leucaena leucocephala Leguminosae Mimosoideae plant poisoning sheep diseases pathology

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Almeida A.P.M.G., Kommers G.D., Nogueira A.P.A., Júnior L.G.B., Marques B.M.F.P. & Lemos R.A.A. 2006. [Evaluation of the toxicity of Leucaena leucocephala (Leg. Mimosoi-deae) in sheep.] Avaliação do efeito tóxico de Leucaena leucocephala (Leg.Mimosoideae) em ovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(3):190-194. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Faculdade de Medicina Vetetinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, Av. Senador Filinto Müller 2443, Cx.Postal 549, Campo Grande, MS 79070-900, Brazil. E-mail: eqrural@nin.ufms.br An experiment was performed to evaluate the toxicity of Leucaena leucocephala for sheep. Two ewes and six lambs were divided into seven treatments and fed the plant. The adult ewes did not show clinical signs of poisoning. The 4 to 5-month-old lambs presented partial wool loss 6 days after beginning of the administration of the plant and total wool loss after 12 or 20 days. The age of the sheep in this experiment suggests resistance of adult ewes and susceptibility of young lambs to L. leucocaephala poisoning.