PESQUISA VETERINÁRIA BRASILEIRA

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Silva M.S., Brum M.C.S., Weiblen R. & Flores E.F. 2007. [Identification and differentiation of herpesvirus types 1 and 5 isolated from clinical samples in central-southern Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay (1987-2006).] Identificação e diferenciação de herpesvírus bovino tipos 1 e 5 isolados de amostras clínicas no Centro-Sul do Brasil, Argentina e Uruguai (1987-2006). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(10):403-408. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: flores@ccr.ufsm.br Bovine herpesviruses types 1 and 5 (BoHV-1; BoHV-5) are genetically and antigenically closely related such they can not be distinguished by routine diagnostic tests. As BoHV-1 has been historically associated with respiratory and genital disease, herpesviruses isolated from these clinical syndromes have been tentatively – and sometimes definitively - diagnosed as BoHV-1. Likewise, cases of herpetic neurological infection in cattle have been generally attributed to BoHV-5. This study reports the identification of 40 herpesvirus isolates from different clinical specimens and syndromes in central-southern Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay (1987-2006) by the use of a PCR able to differentiate between BoHV-1 and BoHV-5. BoHV-1 isolates (n=16) were identified in cases of respiratory disease (n=3), vulvovaginitis and/or balanoposthitis (n=3), in semen of healthy bulls (n=5) and in cases of neurological disease (n=5). Viruses identified as BoHV-5 (n=24) were isolated predominantly from cases of neurological disease (n=21), but also from semen of healthy bulls (n=2) and from a spleen of a calf with systemic disease (n=1). These results show that both BoHV-1 and BoHV-5 are not strictly associated with their respective diseases; yet are frequently involved in clinical conditions otherwise attributed to the other virus. These findings also reinforce the need of correctly identifying the herpesvirus isolates as to better understand their pathogenesis and epidemiology.

• Bovine herpesvirus BoHV-1 BoHV-5 differential diagnosis epidemiology

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Silva M.S., Brum M.C.S., Weiblen R. & Flores E.F. 2007. [Identification and differentiation of herpesvirus types 1 and 5 isolated from clinical samples in central-southern Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay (1987-2006).] Identificação e diferenciação de herpesvírus bovino tipos 1 e 5 isolados de amostras clínicas no Centro-Sul do Brasil, Argentina e Uruguai (1987-2006). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(10):403-408. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: flores@ccr.ufsm.br Bovine herpesviruses types 1 and 5 (BoHV-1; BoHV-5) are genetically and antigenically closely related such they can not be distinguished by routine diagnostic tests. As BoHV-1 has been historically associated with respiratory and genital disease, herpesviruses isolated from these clinical syndromes have been tentatively – and sometimes definitively - diagnosed as BoHV-1. Likewise, cases of herpetic neurological infection in cattle have been generally attributed to BoHV-5. This study reports the identification of 40 herpesvirus isolates from different clinical specimens and syndromes in central-southern Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay (1987-2006) by the use of a PCR able to differentiate between BoHV-1 and BoHV-5. BoHV-1 isolates (n=16) were identified in cases of respiratory disease (n=3), vulvovaginitis and/or balanoposthitis (n=3), in semen of healthy bulls (n=5) and in cases of neurological disease (n=5). Viruses identified as BoHV-5 (n=24) were isolated predominantly from cases of neurological disease (n=21), but also from semen of healthy bulls (n=2) and from a spleen of a calf with systemic disease (n=1). These results show that both BoHV-1 and BoHV-5 are not strictly associated with their respective diseases; yet are frequently involved in clinical conditions otherwise attributed to the other virus. These findings also reinforce the need of correctly identifying the herpesvirus isolates as to better understand their pathogenesis and epidemiology.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Pilati C. & Barros C.S.L. 2007. [Experimental poisoning by Senecio brasiliensis (Asteraceae) in horses.] Intoxicação experimental por Senecio brasiliensis (Asteraceae) em eqüinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(7):287-296. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br Fourteen 4 to 22-year-old mixed breed horses weighing 230-475 kg were experimentally fed the dried aerial parts of Senecio brasiliensis (Spreng.) collected in its sprouting stage. A 15-year-old horse served as non-plant-fed control. Small amounts of the dried plant material were admixed in the ration given to the horses; larger amounts were grounded, admixed with water and force fed through nasogastric intubation. Liver biopsies were periodically performed in 11 horses. Nine horses died with signs or lesions of the poisoning after having received amounts of the plant corresponding to 0.87%, 1.5% (single administrations), 1.74% (two weekly administrations), 3.0% (three daily administrations), 7.42% (17 weekly administrations), 8.9% (284 daily administrations), 9.66% (82 daily administrations) and 9.30% (43 weekly administrations) of their body weight. Two horses which received amounts of the plant corresponding to 15.0% (30 and 60 daily administrations) of their body weight died during the experiments due to unrelated causes. Three horses which received amounts of the plant corresponding to 0.5% and 1.0% (single administrations), and 15.0% (240 daily administrations) of their body weight, and the control horse survived without any clinical signs. The disease induced by the plant had a clinical course of 1-30 days and was characterized by anorexia, jaundice and neurological signs of hepatic encephalopathy. Weight loss was observed in the more protracted cases. Necropsy findings included marked enhancement of the lobular pattern of the livers or those were firm and dark-red. Hemorrhages were frequent and more conspicuous on the subcutis, serosal surfaces and in the gastrointestinal mucosa. Edema occurred in the submucosa of the gastrointestinal tract and in body cavities. Histologically, the livers of horses that ingested relatively larger amounts of the plant for short periods of time had zonal coagulative necrosis and centrilobular to massive hemorrhages. Moderate to marked hepatomegalocytosis and mild to moderate fibrosis were seen in 4 horses which ingested small amounts of the plant for longer periods. Cholestasis and hemosiderosis were observed in the liver of 8 horses, neutrophilic aggregates in 6 and acidophilic intranuclear pseudo-inclusion bodies in hepatocytes of 3 horses. Changes suggestive of hepatic encephalopathy were observed in the brain of 6 horses. The earliest detected change in the liver biopsies was vacuolization of hepatocyte nuclei followed by apoptotic loss of hepatocytes, hepatomegalocytosis, infiltration of neutrophils and centrolobular necrosis. Occasionally hepatocellular acidophilic intranuclear pseudo-inclusion bodies and, in more protracted cases, slight fibrosis were seen. No changes were observed in the liver biopsies of the 3 plant-fed horses that survived, nor on the 2 horses that died of unrelated causes. The control horse had no clinical signs.

• Poisonous plants Senecio brasiliensis Asteraceae diseases of horses pathology

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Pilati C. & Barros C.S.L. 2007. [Experimental poisoning by Senecio brasiliensis (Asteraceae) in horses.] Intoxicação experimental por Senecio brasiliensis (Asteraceae) em eqüinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(7):287-296. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br Fourteen 4 to 22-year-old mixed breed horses weighing 230-475 kg were experimentally fed the dried aerial parts of Senecio brasiliensis (Spreng.) collected in its sprouting stage. A 15-year-old horse served as non-plant-fed control. Small amounts of the dried plant material were admixed in the ration given to the horses; larger amounts were grounded, admixed with water and force fed through nasogastric intubation. Liver biopsies were periodically performed in 11 horses. Nine horses died with signs or lesions of the poisoning after having received amounts of the plant corresponding to 0.87%, 1.5% (single administrations), 1.74% (two weekly administrations), 3.0% (three daily administrations), 7.42% (17 weekly administrations), 8.9% (284 daily administrations), 9.66% (82 daily administrations) and 9.30% (43 weekly administrations) of their body weight. Two horses which received amounts of the plant corresponding to 15.0% (30 and 60 daily administrations) of their body weight died during the experiments due to unrelated causes. Three horses which received amounts of the plant corresponding to 0.5% and 1.0% (single administrations), and 15.0% (240 daily administrations) of their body weight, and the control horse survived without any clinical signs. The disease induced by the plant had a clinical course of 1-30 days and was characterized by anorexia, jaundice and neurological signs of hepatic encephalopathy. Weight loss was observed in the more protracted cases. Necropsy findings included marked enhancement of the lobular pattern of the livers or those were firm and dark-red. Hemorrhages were frequent and more conspicuous on the subcutis, serosal surfaces and in the gastrointestinal mucosa. Edema occurred in the submucosa of the gastrointestinal tract and in body cavities. Histologically, the livers of horses that ingested relatively larger amounts of the plant for short periods of time had zonal coagulative necrosis and centrilobular to massive hemorrhages. Moderate to marked hepatomegalocytosis and mild to moderate fibrosis were seen in 4 horses which ingested small amounts of the plant for longer periods. Cholestasis and hemosiderosis were observed in the liver of 8 horses, neutrophilic aggregates in 6 and acidophilic intranuclear pseudo-inclusion bodies in hepatocytes of 3 horses. Changes suggestive of hepatic encephalopathy were observed in the brain of 6 horses. The earliest detected change in the liver biopsies was vacuolization of hepatocyte nuclei followed by apoptotic loss of hepatocytes, hepatomegalocytosis, infiltration of neutrophils and centrolobular necrosis. Occasionally hepatocellular acidophilic intranuclear pseudo-inclusion bodies and, in more protracted cases, slight fibrosis were seen. No changes were observed in the liver biopsies of the 3 plant-fed horses that survived, nor on the 2 horses that died of unrelated causes. The control horse had no clinical signs.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Pescador C.A., Oliveira E.C., Pedroso P.M.O., Bandarra P.M., Okuda L.H., Corbellini L.G. & Driemeier D. 2007. [Reproductive losses linked to Toxoplasma gondii infection in goats in southern Brazil.] Perdas reprodutivas associadas com infecção por Toxoplasma gondii em caprinos no sul do Brasil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(4):167-171. Departamento de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: davetpat@ufrgs.br Toxoplasma gondii was implicated with reproductive losses in a goat herd in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Gross changes were present in 2 out of 6 fetuses/offsprings submitted for diagnosis and included enlarged, pale mesenteric lymph nodes, and edematous, mottled red and tan lungs. Microscopic changes were observed in most fetuses and were especially characterized by lymphoplasmacytic infiltration in the brain and lungs. Other histological changes included lymphoplasmacytic interstitial nephritis, necrotizing lymphadenitis and periportal lympho-plasmacytic cell infiltrates. While bacteriological and direct immunofluorescent antibody tests for Leptospira sp. were negative in samples from all cases, immunohistochemical and PCR procedures for Toxoplasma gondii reacted positively in most of them. Antibody titles against T. gondii varying from 1:512 to 1:2048 were detected in serum samples from the mother goats of these aborted (1), stillborn (3) or dead newborn (2) kids. This paper describes the clinical, pathological, serological, molecular and immunohistochemical findings of a Toxoplasma gondii-infected goat flock.

• Abortion goat reproductive losses stillborn Toxoplasma gondii

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Pescador C.A., Oliveira E.C., Pedroso P.M.O., Bandarra P.M., Okuda L.H., Corbellini L.G. & Driemeier D. 2007. [Reproductive losses linked to Toxoplasma gondii infection in goats in southern Brazil.] Perdas reprodutivas associadas com infecção por Toxoplasma gondii em caprinos no sul do Brasil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(4):167-171. Departamento de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: davetpat@ufrgs.br Toxoplasma gondii was implicated with reproductive losses in a goat herd in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Gross changes were present in 2 out of 6 fetuses/offsprings submitted for diagnosis and included enlarged, pale mesenteric lymph nodes, and edematous, mottled red and tan lungs. Microscopic changes were observed in most fetuses and were especially characterized by lymphoplasmacytic infiltration in the brain and lungs. Other histological changes included lymphoplasmacytic interstitial nephritis, necrotizing lymphadenitis and periportal lympho-plasmacytic cell infiltrates. While bacteriological and direct immunofluorescent antibody tests for Leptospira sp. were negative in samples from all cases, immunohistochemical and PCR procedures for Toxoplasma gondii reacted positively in most of them. Antibody titles against T. gondii varying from 1:512 to 1:2048 were detected in serum samples from the mother goats of these aborted (1), stillborn (3) or dead newborn (2) kids. This paper describes the clinical, pathological, serological, molecular and immunohistochemical findings of a Toxoplasma gondii-infected goat flock.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Pereira C.S., Amorim S.D., Santos A.F.M., Siciliano S., Moreno I.M.B., Ott P.H. & Rodrigues D.P. 2007. [Vibrio spp. isolated from marine mammals captured in coastal regions from southwestern to southern Brazil.] Vibrio spp. isolados de mamíferos marinhos capturados na região litorânea do sudeste ao sul do Brasil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(2):81-83. Laboratório de Enterobactérias, Departamento de Bacteriologia, Pavilhão Rocha Lima, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, FIOCruz, Av. Brasil 4365, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 21045-900, Brazil. E-mail: csoarespereira@hotmail.com In the present investigation was evaluated the incidence of Vibrio spp. from superficial lesions at marine mammals beached or captured by fishing net in the southwestern (RJ) and southern (RS) coastal regions of Brazil. One hundred and ninety eight swabs were collected by DEENSP, GEMARS and Ceclimar institutes and sent to Labent/IOC/FIOCruz where the samples were submitted to enrichment in Alkaline Peptone Water (APW) added with 1% and 3% of sodium chloride (NaCl) incubated at 37oC for 18-24 hours. After the samples were streaked onto Thiossulfate Citrate Bile Sucrose Agar (TCBS), the suspected colonies were submitted to biochemical characterization. The results showed 108 strains, and Vibrio alginolyticus, V. parahaemolyticus, V. vulnificus and V. fluvialis were the main pathogens isolated. These results appoint the importance of surveillance and microbiological monitoring accomplishment and reinforcement of environmental protective programs applied to marine mammals endangered with extinction.

• Vibrionaceae aquatic ecosystem public health

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Pereira C.S., Amorim S.D., Santos A.F.M., Siciliano S., Moreno I.M.B., Ott P.H. & Rodrigues D.P. 2007. [Vibrio spp. isolated from marine mammals captured in coastal regions from southwestern to southern Brazil.] Vibrio spp. isolados de mamíferos marinhos capturados na região litorânea do sudeste ao sul do Brasil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(2):81-83. Laboratório de Enterobactérias, Departamento de Bacteriologia, Pavilhão Rocha Lima, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, FIOCruz, Av. Brasil 4365, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 21045-900, Brazil. E-mail: csoarespereira@hotmail.com In the present investigation was evaluated the incidence of Vibrio spp. from superficial lesions at marine mammals beached or captured by fishing net in the southwestern (RJ) and southern (RS) coastal regions of Brazil. One hundred and ninety eight swabs were collected by DEENSP, GEMARS and Ceclimar institutes and sent to Labent/IOC/FIOCruz where the samples were submitted to enrichment in Alkaline Peptone Water (APW) added with 1% and 3% of sodium chloride (NaCl) incubated at 37oC for 18-24 hours. After the samples were streaked onto Thiossulfate Citrate Bile Sucrose Agar (TCBS), the suspected colonies were submitted to biochemical characterization. The results showed 108 strains, and Vibrio alginolyticus, V. parahaemolyticus, V. vulnificus and V. fluvialis were the main pathogens isolated. These results appoint the importance of surveillance and microbiological monitoring accomplishment and reinforcement of environmental protective programs applied to marine mammals endangered with extinction.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Barros C.S.L., Castilhos L.M.L., Rissi D.R., Kommers G.D. & Rech R.R. 2007. [Liver biopsy for the diagnosis of Senecio brasiliensis (Asteraceae) poisoning in cattle.] Biópsia hepática no diagnóstico da intoxicação por Senecio brasiliensis (Asteraceae) em bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(1):53-60. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br Liver lesions caused by Senecio spp. poisoning in cattle are progressive and deaths may occur many months after the plant is ingested. Laboratory tests of liver function are not always reliable indicators of subclinical affected animals. Liver biopsy could be useful to identify cattle with hepatic lesions but without clinical signs and would have also a prognostic value since it is generally believed that hepatic lesions will eventually cause liver failure and death. Such animals could be picked out by liver biopsy before clinical signs develop and be sent to slaughter, minimizing economic losses. This study was aimed to evaluate the liver biopsy as a diagnostic and prognostic tool in cases of Senecio spp. poisoning in cattle. An outbreak of Senecio brasiliensis was diagnosed in dairy calves which ingested hay contaminated by 5-10% of this Senecio species. Liver biopsy using a Menghini needle by right transthoracic approach was carried out in 135 calves that ingested the contaminated hay. Biopsed calves were followed up for 26 months after the biopsy. Seventeen biopsied calves had typical lesions of Senecio spp. poisoning (positive calves) and 118 had histologically normal livers (negative calves). Hepatic lesions of positive calves included fibrosis, hepatomeglocytosis, and biliary hyperplasia. Fifteen out of the 17 positive calves died with typical clinical signs of Senecio spp. poisoning within 17-149 days after the biopsy; 13 of those were necropsied and had typical gross and histopathological lesions of Senecio spp. poisoning. Two positive calves were clinically normal at the end of the post-biopsy observation period. The prognostic value (sensibility) of the test was considered high since 88.23% of the positive calves died. The specificity of the test was considered very high (99.16%) since only one of the 118 negative calves died in the observation period. In none of the biopsed calves a negative effect related to the biopsy technique was observed.

• Poisonous plants Senecio brasiliensis Asteraceae liver biopsy diseases of cattle pathology

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Barros C.S.L., Castilhos L.M.L., Rissi D.R., Kommers G.D. & Rech R.R. 2007. [Liver biopsy for the diagnosis of Senecio brasiliensis (Asteraceae) poisoning in cattle.] Biópsia hepática no diagnóstico da intoxicação por Senecio brasiliensis (Asteraceae) em bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(1):53-60. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br Liver lesions caused by Senecio spp. poisoning in cattle are progressive and deaths may occur many months after the plant is ingested. Laboratory tests of liver function are not always reliable indicators of subclinical affected animals. Liver biopsy could be useful to identify cattle with hepatic lesions but without clinical signs and would have also a prognostic value since it is generally believed that hepatic lesions will eventually cause liver failure and death. Such animals could be picked out by liver biopsy before clinical signs develop and be sent to slaughter, minimizing economic losses. This study was aimed to evaluate the liver biopsy as a diagnostic and prognostic tool in cases of Senecio spp. poisoning in cattle. An outbreak of Senecio brasiliensis was diagnosed in dairy calves which ingested hay contaminated by 5-10% of this Senecio species. Liver biopsy using a Menghini needle by right transthoracic approach was carried out in 135 calves that ingested the contaminated hay. Biopsed calves were followed up for 26 months after the biopsy. Seventeen biopsied calves had typical lesions of Senecio spp. poisoning (positive calves) and 118 had histologically normal livers (negative calves). Hepatic lesions of positive calves included fibrosis, hepatomeglocytosis, and biliary hyperplasia. Fifteen out of the 17 positive calves died with typical clinical signs of Senecio spp. poisoning within 17-149 days after the biopsy; 13 of those were necropsied and had typical gross and histopathological lesions of Senecio spp. poisoning. Two positive calves were clinically normal at the end of the post-biopsy observation period. The prognostic value (sensibility) of the test was considered high since 88.23% of the positive calves died. The specificity of the test was considered very high (99.16%) since only one of the 118 negative calves died in the observation period. In none of the biopsed calves a negative effect related to the biopsy technique was observed.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Tokarnia C.H. & Peixoto P.V. 2005. [The importance of snake bites as cause of cattle death in Brazil.] A importância dos acidentes ofídicos como causa de mortes em bovinos no Brasil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(2):55-68. Projeto Sanidade Animal Embrapa/UFRRJ, Km 47, Seropédica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil. E-mail: tokarnia@ufrrj.br A review of the literature shows that opinions on the importance of snake bites as cause of cattle death in Brazil are divergent among veterinarians; some think they are of no importance or of only minor significance, others are of the opinion that snake bites are frequent. However, the literature only reports two confirmed fatal cases by Bothrops and none by Crotalus in cattle in the country. A questionnaire which was submitted for appraisal to veterinary pathologists and clinicians in various States of Brazil, revealed only suspected cases of fatal accidents by snakes in cattle. During our field and laboratory diagnostic work we never made a diagnosis of a snake bite accident. Many “diagnoses” have apparently been made at a distance from where the animals died, without clinical and post-mortem examination, nor histological studies. By this way, the great majority of cases seems to be only supposition. In Brazil there are only few snakes of the genus Bothrops theoretically able to produce sufficient amounts of venom to kill an adult bovine. Nevertheless, in experiments, only Bothrops alternatus was able to cause the death of just one out of three bovines bitten, and this animal only weighed 279 kg. Snakes of the genus Crotalus can produce sufficient amounts of venom to kill an adult bovine; however it is known, that snakes of the genus Crotalus as well as of Bothrops generally inoculate only a part of their venom. These considerations indicate that the deaths suspected to have been caused by snake bites in cattle in Brazil have to be studied more thoroughly. A diagnosis can only be confirmed by establishing the precise clinical and pathological picture. Our current opinion is that fatal snake bites are much less frequent in cattle than often believed, and that their importance is generally much exaggerated.

• Snake bites snakes Crotalus spp Bothrops spp cattle.

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Tokarnia C.H. & Peixoto P.V. 2005. [The importance of snake bites as cause of cattle death in Brazil.] A importância dos acidentes ofídicos como causa de mortes em bovinos no Brasil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(2):55-68. Projeto Sanidade Animal Embrapa/UFRRJ, Km 47, Seropédica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil. E-mail: tokarnia@ufrrj.br A review of the literature shows that opinions on the importance of snake bites as cause of cattle death in Brazil are divergent among veterinarians; some think they are of no importance or of only minor significance, others are of the opinion that snake bites are frequent. However, the literature only reports two confirmed fatal cases by Bothrops and none by Crotalus in cattle in the country. A questionnaire which was submitted for appraisal to veterinary pathologists and clinicians in various States of Brazil, revealed only suspected cases of fatal accidents by snakes in cattle. During our field and laboratory diagnostic work we never made a diagnosis of a snake bite accident. Many “diagnoses” have apparently been made at a distance from where the animals died, without clinical and post-mortem examination, nor histological studies. By this way, the great majority of cases seems to be only supposition. In Brazil there are only few snakes of the genus Bothrops theoretically able to produce sufficient amounts of venom to kill an adult bovine. Nevertheless, in experiments, only Bothrops alternatus was able to cause the death of just one out of three bovines bitten, and this animal only weighed 279 kg. Snakes of the genus Crotalus can produce sufficient amounts of venom to kill an adult bovine; however it is known, that snakes of the genus Crotalus as well as of Bothrops generally inoculate only a part of their venom. These considerations indicate that the deaths suspected to have been caused by snake bites in cattle in Brazil have to be studied more thoroughly. A diagnosis can only be confirmed by establishing the precise clinical and pathological picture. Our current opinion is that fatal snake bites are much less frequent in cattle than often believed, and that their importance is generally much exaggerated.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Bianchin I., Koller W.W. & Detmann E. 2006. [The seasonality of Haematobia irritans in central Brazil.] Sazonalidade de Haematobia irritans no Brasil Central. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(2):79-86. Área de Sanidade Animal, Embrapa Gado de Corte, Cx. Postal 154, Campo Grande, MS 79002-970, Brazil. E-mail: bianchin@cnpgc.embrapa.br Horn fly (Haematobia irritans) is one of the most important Brazilian cattle ectoparasites. Epidemiological studies are needed due the increasing difficulty of their chemical control. In order to obtain a better knowledge of their seasonal population dynamics, 14 days interval fly counts were made on 7-30 month old beef cattle, from winter 1996 to summer 2002. Horn fly population levels increase (P<0.05) was observed during the seasons of each infestation period (spring until autumn), mainly in spring and summer, and sometimes in autumn, followed by a significant reduction (P<0.05) in winter, when the relative humidity decreases to less than 60%. A straight (P<0.05) and immediate correlation between the relative humidity and the fly count was found, whilst the most evident effects of temperature and rain fall (P<0.05) were associated with counts done 42-56 days after attainment of the climatic data. The highest parasitism load (average number of flies per animal) observed for the genetic groups used were: Aberdeen Angus x Nellore = 173.5 (134-254); ½ Brown Swiss x Nellore = 183.5 (32-540); ¾ Aberdeen Angus x Nellore = 133.0 (18-374), and Valdostana x Nellore = 219.0 (58-620). Torrential rain falls during the initial half of the infestation period (spring until midsummer) are common in this region and were considered the main reason for the low to moderate population levels verified at that time, in comparison with those which occurred during the last half of the infestation period.

• Horn fly epidemiology population dynamics ectoparasites cattle.

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Bianchin I., Koller W.W. & Detmann E. 2006. [The seasonality of Haematobia irritans in central Brazil.] Sazonalidade de Haematobia irritans no Brasil Central. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(2):79-86. Área de Sanidade Animal, Embrapa Gado de Corte, Cx. Postal 154, Campo Grande, MS 79002-970, Brazil. E-mail: bianchin@cnpgc.embrapa.br Horn fly (Haematobia irritans) is one of the most important Brazilian cattle ectoparasites. Epidemiological studies are needed due the increasing difficulty of their chemical control. In order to obtain a better knowledge of their seasonal population dynamics, 14 days interval fly counts were made on 7-30 month old beef cattle, from winter 1996 to summer 2002. Horn fly population levels increase (P<0.05) was observed during the seasons of each infestation period (spring until autumn), mainly in spring and summer, and sometimes in autumn, followed by a significant reduction (P<0.05) in winter, when the relative humidity decreases to less than 60%. A straight (P<0.05) and immediate correlation between the relative humidity and the fly count was found, whilst the most evident effects of temperature and rain fall (P<0.05) were associated with counts done 42-56 days after attainment of the climatic data. The highest parasitism load (average number of flies per animal) observed for the genetic groups used were: Aberdeen Angus x Nellore = 173.5 (134-254); ½ Brown Swiss x Nellore = 183.5 (32-540); ¾ Aberdeen Angus x Nellore = 133.0 (18-374), and Valdostana x Nellore = 219.0 (58-620). Torrential rain falls during the initial half of the infestation period (spring until midsummer) are common in this region and were considered the main reason for the low to moderate population levels verified at that time, in comparison with those which occurred during the last half of the infestation period.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Costa M.M., Silva M.S., Spricigo D.A., Witt N.M., Marchioro S.B., Kolling L. & Vargas A.P.C. 2006. [Epidemiology, molecular characterization and resistance to antimicrobials of Escherichia coli isolated from South-Brazilian pig herds.] Caracterização epidemiológica, molecular e perfil de resistência aos antimicrobianos de Escherichia coli isoladas de criatórios suínos do Sul do Brasil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(1):5-8. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Centro de Ciências Rurais, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: agueda@ccr.ufsm.br Colibacillosis is an enteric disease with a major impact to the swine industry and is caused by enterotoxigenic strains of Escherichia coli. Forty clinical isolates from pigs with diarrhea and 13 environmental isolates were analysed regarding their genotypic profile, genetic relationship and antibiotic resistance. The most prevalent gene was Stb, identified in 50% of the isolates from clinical cases, and Sta and Lt were detected in 35% of them. Among the adesine factors investigated, F18 was found in 27.5% of the E. coli strains. The ERIC-PCR technique used for epidemiological characterization of the isolates did not show the expected discriminatory power. However, the test allowed separation of the isolates in groups, but did not evidence groups related to virulence factors. In the susceptibility test, the highest values for resistance were to tetracycline, in 88.6%. The index of multiple resistance to antimicrobials varied from 0 to 0.69.

• Escherichia coli genotypic profile resistance.

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Costa M.M., Silva M.S., Spricigo D.A., Witt N.M., Marchioro S.B., Kolling L. & Vargas A.P.C. 2006. [Epidemiology, molecular characterization and resistance to antimicrobials of Escherichia coli isolated from South-Brazilian pig herds.] Caracterização epidemiológica, molecular e perfil de resistência aos antimicrobianos de Escherichia coli isoladas de criatórios suínos do Sul do Brasil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(1):5-8. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Centro de Ciências Rurais, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: agueda@ccr.ufsm.br Colibacillosis is an enteric disease with a major impact to the swine industry and is caused by enterotoxigenic strains of Escherichia coli. Forty clinical isolates from pigs with diarrhea and 13 environmental isolates were analysed regarding their genotypic profile, genetic relationship and antibiotic resistance. The most prevalent gene was Stb, identified in 50% of the isolates from clinical cases, and Sta and Lt were detected in 35% of them. Among the adesine factors investigated, F18 was found in 27.5% of the E. coli strains. The ERIC-PCR technique used for epidemiological characterization of the isolates did not show the expected discriminatory power. However, the test allowed separation of the isolates in groups, but did not evidence groups related to virulence factors. In the susceptibility test, the highest values for resistance were to tetracycline, in 88.6%. The index of multiple resistance to antimicrobials varied from 0 to 0.69.

Abstract in English:

Zlotowski P., Nakazato L., Dutra V., Barros S.S., Gimeno E.J., Göcks M., Colodel E.M. & Driemeier D. 2005. [Inherited glycogenosis in Brahman cattle in Brazil.] Glicogenose hereditária em bovinos Brahman no Brasil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(4):210-214. Setor de Patologia Veterinária, Departamento de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Bairro Agronomia, Cx. Postal 15094, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000. Brazil. E-mail: davetpat@ufrgs.br An inherited disease of cattle, characterized by lysosomal storage of glycogen in several tissues, is reported. The disease was diagnosed in a Brahman herd in the municipality of Porto Lucena, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Affected calves, after one month of age, showed progressive difficulty to follow their mother, retarded growth, muscular weakness and tremors, lethargy and poor body condition. All affected calves were sired by the same bull. Necropsy was performed on three affected calves. The only gross lesion detected was paleness of the skeletal muscles of the trunk and limbs. Cytoplasmic vacuoles, the main histological lesion, were particularly evident in skeletal muscles, myocardium and Purkinje fibers, in neurons of the brain and spinal cord. Large amounts of periodic acid Schiff (PAS) positive granules were also observed in these most severely affected tissues. Pretreatment with diastase completely abolished the PAS reactivity. The 1057?TA, a lethal mutation in the gene of the acid alpha-glucosidase, which causes generalized glycogenosis in Brahman cattle, was detected by PCR in paraffin embedded tissues of affected animals on which post-mortem examination was performed. Clinical, histological and molecular findings were similar to previous descriptions of generalized glycogenosis in Brahman cattle in Australia. No previous indexed reports about generalized glycogenosis of Brahman cattle in Brazil could be found.

• Glycogenosis inherited disease Brahman cattle.

Abstract in Portuguese:

Zlotowski P., Nakazato L., Dutra V., Barros S.S., Gimeno E.J., Göcks M., Colodel E.M. & Driemeier D. 2005. [Inherited glycogenosis in Brahman cattle in Brazil.] Glicogenose hereditária em bovinos Brahman no Brasil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(4):210-214. Setor de Patologia Veterinária, Departamento de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Bairro Agronomia, Cx. Postal 15094, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000. Brazil. E-mail: davetpat@ufrgs.br An inherited disease of cattle, characterized by lysosomal storage of glycogen in several tissues, is reported. The disease was diagnosed in a Brahman herd in the municipality of Porto Lucena, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Affected calves, after one month of age, showed progressive difficulty to follow their mother, retarded growth, muscular weakness and tremors, lethargy and poor body condition. All affected calves were sired by the same bull. Necropsy was performed on three affected calves. The only gross lesion detected was paleness of the skeletal muscles of the trunk and limbs. Cytoplasmic vacuoles, the main histological lesion, were particularly evident in skeletal muscles, myocardium and Purkinje fibers, in neurons of the brain and spinal cord. Large amounts of periodic acid Schiff (PAS) positive granules were also observed in these most severely affected tissues. Pretreatment with diastase completely abolished the PAS reactivity. The 1057?TA, a lethal mutation in the gene of the acid alpha-glucosidase, which causes generalized glycogenosis in Brahman cattle, was detected by PCR in paraffin embedded tissues of affected animals on which post-mortem examination was performed. Clinical, histological and molecular findings were similar to previous descriptions of generalized glycogenosis in Brahman cattle in Australia. No previous indexed reports about generalized glycogenosis of Brahman cattle in Brazil could be found.

Abstract in English:

Lima E.F., Riet-Correa F., Castro R.S., Gomes A.A.B. & Lima F.S. 2005. [Clinical signs, distribution of the lesions in the central nervous system and epidemiology of rabies in northeastern Brazil.] Sinais clínicos, distribuição das lesões no sistema nervoso e epidemiologia da raiva em herbívoros na região Nordeste do Brasil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(4):250-264. Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, Campus de Patos, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Patos, PB 58700-000, Brazil. E-mail: riet@cstr.ufcg.br Twenty four outbreaks of rabies in cattle, 4 in horses, 2 in sheep, and 2 in goats are reported in northeastern Brazil. All outbreaks occurred in the state of Paraíba, except one in horses that occurred in the state of Rio Grande do Norte. All outbreaks, except one in sheep, were probably transmitted by vampire-bats, but the transmission by foxes (Dusicyon vetulus) is also possible. Clinical signs were characteristic for distribution of the lesions in the central nervous system (CNS). In cattle, signs were mainly of the paralytic form of rabies, caused by lesions on the spinal cord, brain stem and cerebellum; but some animals showed also depression, excitation and other signs due to cerebral lesions. In 3 out of 5 horses, the main clinical signs were due to lesions in the cerebrum, and 2 had the paralytic form. From 4 sheep and 2 goats affected, 4 showed clinical signs of the paralytic form; but in 1 goat and 1 sheep the main clinical signs were caused by cerebral lesions. All affected animals, except 1 goat, had a clinical manifestation period of 2-8 days. The only gross lesions were distention of the urinary bladder in 4 cattle and distention of the rectum in 2 others. Two horses had skin lesions due to traumatic injury. Histologic lesions were diffuse non-suppurative encephalomyelitis and meningitis. In the horses, and in one goat with a clinical manifestation period of 35 days, the lesions were more severe, with neuronal necrosis, neuronophagia, and presence of axonal spheroids. Negri bodies were found in 87% (20/23) of the cattle cases examined histologically. In small ruminants Negri bodies were found in 83% (5/6) of the cases. In sheep, goats and cattle, Negri bodies were more frequent in the cerebellum, but they were found also in brain stem, spinal cord and cerebrum. In horses, Negri bodies were found in small amounts only in the cortex of one animal, and in the cortex and hippocampus of another. Histologic lesions and Negri bodies in the trigeminal ganglia were less frequent than in the CNS. These results show that in rabies of herbivores, clinical signs and distribution of lesions in the CNS are variable, so that for the diagnosis and adequate clinical evaluation and the histologic study of different areas of the CNS are necessary. This also suggests that when the fluorescent antibody test and mouse inoculation test are negative, they should be repeated with samples from different areas of the brain and spinal cord. Frequency data of diseases from 4 diagnostic laboratories were used to estimate cattle deaths due to rabies in 3 Brazilian states. In Paraíba, with a population of 918,262 cattle, the annual death rate is estimated in 8,609 heads. In Mato Grosso do Sul, with a population of 23 millions cattle, deaths caused by rabies are estimated in 149,500 heads, and in Rio Grande do Sul, with a cattle population of 13 millions, cattle deaths due to rabies are estimated in 13,000 to 16,250 heads. If these data are used to estimate cattle losses in Brazil, with a cattle population of 195 millions, it can be estimated that 842,688 deaths are caused annually by rabies.

• Rabies cattle sheep goats horses pathology clinical signs economical impact.

Abstract in Portuguese:

Lima E.F., Riet-Correa F., Castro R.S., Gomes A.A.B. & Lima F.S. 2005. [Clinical signs, distribution of the lesions in the central nervous system and epidemiology of rabies in northeastern Brazil.] Sinais clínicos, distribuição das lesões no sistema nervoso e epidemiologia da raiva em herbívoros na região Nordeste do Brasil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(4):250-264. Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, Campus de Patos, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Patos, PB 58700-000, Brazil. E-mail: riet@cstr.ufcg.br Twenty four outbreaks of rabies in cattle, 4 in horses, 2 in sheep, and 2 in goats are reported in northeastern Brazil. All outbreaks occurred in the state of Paraíba, except one in horses that occurred in the state of Rio Grande do Norte. All outbreaks, except one in sheep, were probably transmitted by vampire-bats, but the transmission by foxes (Dusicyon vetulus) is also possible. Clinical signs were characteristic for distribution of the lesions in the central nervous system (CNS). In cattle, signs were mainly of the paralytic form of rabies, caused by lesions on the spinal cord, brain stem and cerebellum; but some animals showed also depression, excitation and other signs due to cerebral lesions. In 3 out of 5 horses, the main clinical signs were due to lesions in the cerebrum, and 2 had the paralytic form. From 4 sheep and 2 goats affected, 4 showed clinical signs of the paralytic form; but in 1 goat and 1 sheep the main clinical signs were caused by cerebral lesions. All affected animals, except 1 goat, had a clinical manifestation period of 2-8 days. The only gross lesions were distention of the urinary bladder in 4 cattle and distention of the rectum in 2 others. Two horses had skin lesions due to traumatic injury. Histologic lesions were diffuse non-suppurative encephalomyelitis and meningitis. In the horses, and in one goat with a clinical manifestation period of 35 days, the lesions were more severe, with neuronal necrosis, neuronophagia, and presence of axonal spheroids. Negri bodies were found in 87% (20/23) of the cattle cases examined histologically. In small ruminants Negri bodies were found in 83% (5/6) of the cases. In sheep, goats and cattle, Negri bodies were more frequent in the cerebellum, but they were found also in brain stem, spinal cord and cerebrum. In horses, Negri bodies were found in small amounts only in the cortex of one animal, and in the cortex and hippocampus of another. Histologic lesions and Negri bodies in the trigeminal ganglia were less frequent than in the CNS. These results show that in rabies of herbivores, clinical signs and distribution of lesions in the CNS are variable, so that for the diagnosis and adequate clinical evaluation and the histologic study of different areas of the CNS are necessary. This also suggests that when the fluorescent antibody test and mouse inoculation test are negative, they should be repeated with samples from different areas of the brain and spinal cord. Frequency data of diseases from 4 diagnostic laboratories were used to estimate cattle deaths due to rabies in 3 Brazilian states. In Paraíba, with a population of 918,262 cattle, the annual death rate is estimated in 8,609 heads. In Mato Grosso do Sul, with a population of 23 millions cattle, deaths caused by rabies are estimated in 149,500 heads, and in Rio Grande do Sul, with a cattle population of 13 millions, cattle deaths due to rabies are estimated in 13,000 to 16,250 heads. If these data are used to estimate cattle losses in Brazil, with a cattle population of 195 millions, it can be estimated that 842,688 deaths are caused annually by rabies.