PESQUISA VETERINÁRIA BRASILEIRA

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Bezerra Jr P.S., Raymundo D.L., Spanamberg A., Corrêa A.M.R., Bangel Jr J.J., Ferreiro L. & Driemeier D. 2009. [Neurotoxicosis in cattle associated with consumption of beer residues contaminated with Aspergillus clavatus.] Neurotoxicose em bovinos associada ao consumo de bagaço de malte contaminado por Aspergillus clavatus. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(3):220-228. Setor de Patologia Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: bezerraj@ufla.br Two outbreaks of a neurological disease affecting herds of dairy cattle that were fed moldy beer residues contaminated with Aspergillus clavatus in the county of Viamão, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, are described. The morbidity of both outbreaks was 30% and the lethality 50% and 100%. The clinical course varied from 5 to 64 days. Only one of the animals that recovered from the disease remained with slight locomotor sequels. Clinical signs were predominantly locomotor and included muscle tremors of varied intensity, hyperesthesia and progressive posterior ataxia, paresis and paralysis with knuckling of fetlocks of the hind limbs. Gait abnormalities were more pronounced after exercises which in general led to falling down. There was also reduced milk production, but appetite and water intake were maintained until close to death or euthanasia. From five cattle necropsied, two showed macroscopic lesions characterized by necrotic changes and mineralization in pelvic muscles and thoracic limbs. The main histological findings consisted of chromatolytic neuronal degeneration and necrosis in selected nuclei of the brain stem, the ventral horn of the spinal cord, and of the trigeminal, stellate celiac and spinal ganglions. In two cattle there was wallerian degeneration in dorsal funiculi of the spinal cord and ischiadic and fibular nerves. The diagnosis was based on epidemiological data, clinical signs, necropsy findings, histological lesions and mycological examination. Epidemiologic, clinical and pathologic aspects, pathogenetic mechanisms and differential diagnoses are discussed.

• Aspergillus clavatus cattle beer residues neurotoxicosis chromatolysis neuronal

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Bezerra Jr P.S., Raymundo D.L., Spanamberg A., Corrêa A.M.R., Bangel Jr J.J., Ferreiro L. & Driemeier D. 2009. [Neurotoxicosis in cattle associated with consumption of beer residues contaminated with Aspergillus clavatus.] Neurotoxicose em bovinos associada ao consumo de bagaço de malte contaminado por Aspergillus clavatus. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(3):220-228. Setor de Patologia Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: bezerraj@ufla.br Two outbreaks of a neurological disease affecting herds of dairy cattle that were fed moldy beer residues contaminated with Aspergillus clavatus in the county of Viamão, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, are described. The morbidity of both outbreaks was 30% and the lethality 50% and 100%. The clinical course varied from 5 to 64 days. Only one of the animals that recovered from the disease remained with slight locomotor sequels. Clinical signs were predominantly locomotor and included muscle tremors of varied intensity, hyperesthesia and progressive posterior ataxia, paresis and paralysis with knuckling of fetlocks of the hind limbs. Gait abnormalities were more pronounced after exercises which in general led to falling down. There was also reduced milk production, but appetite and water intake were maintained until close to death or euthanasia. From five cattle necropsied, two showed macroscopic lesions characterized by necrotic changes and mineralization in pelvic muscles and thoracic limbs. The main histological findings consisted of chromatolytic neuronal degeneration and necrosis in selected nuclei of the brain stem, the ventral horn of the spinal cord, and of the trigeminal, stellate celiac and spinal ganglions. In two cattle there was wallerian degeneration in dorsal funiculi of the spinal cord and ischiadic and fibular nerves. The diagnosis was based on epidemiological data, clinical signs, necropsy findings, histological lesions and mycological examination. Epidemiologic, clinical and pathologic aspects, pathogenetic mechanisms and differential diagnoses are discussed.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Câmara A.C.L., Costa N.A., Riet-Correa F., Afonso J.A.B., Dantas A.F.M., Mendonça C.L. & Souza M.I. 2009. [Spontaneous poisoning in cattle by mesquite beans, Prosopis juliflora (Leg. Mimosoideae) in Pernambuco.] Intoxicação espontânea por vagens de Prosopis juliflora (Leg. Mimosoideae) em bovinos em Pernambuco. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(3):233-240. Clínica de Bovinos, Campus Garanhuns, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, Av. Bom Pastor s/n, Cx. Postal 152, Mundaú, Garanhuns, PE 55292-901, Brazil. E-mail: aclcamara@yahoo.com.br Three outbreaks of poisoning by Prosopis juliflora pods are reported in the semiarid region of the state of Pernambuco, Northeastern Brazil, in cattle grazing in fields invaded by the plant or ingesting mesquite beans as a concentrate food. In two farms the disease occurred sporadically. In another, 112 (9.28%) cattle out of 1206 were affected, 84 (6.96%) died due to emaciation, and 28 (2.32%) gained weight after the pods had been withdrawn from the feed. Main clinical signs were progressive weight loss, atrophy of the masseter muscles, dropped jaw, tongue protrusion, difficulties in prehending food, tilting the head during mastigation or rumination, salivation, impaired swallowing, and decreased tone of the tongue. The hematology reveals hypoproteinemia and anemia. Gross lesions were emaciation and reduction in size of the masseter muscles, which appear thinner than normal and grayish due muscular atrophy. Degeneration of neurons of the trigeminal motor nuclei, Wallerian degeneration of the trigeminal nerve roots, and muscular atrophy of the masseter muscles with substitution by fibrous tissue were observed on histologic examination. For the prevention of the poisoning is necessary to limit the amount of mesquite beans in animal nutrition. It is also necessary to develop research to determine the economic and sustainability of the use of Prosopis juliflora for animal food, human food or other uses such as charcoal, wood and fuel wood.

• Poisonous plants Prosopis juliflora Leguminosae Mimosoideae plant poisoning cattle cranial nerves impairment neuronal degeneration

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Câmara A.C.L., Costa N.A., Riet-Correa F., Afonso J.A.B., Dantas A.F.M., Mendonça C.L. & Souza M.I. 2009. [Spontaneous poisoning in cattle by mesquite beans, Prosopis juliflora (Leg. Mimosoideae) in Pernambuco.] Intoxicação espontânea por vagens de Prosopis juliflora (Leg. Mimosoideae) em bovinos em Pernambuco. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(3):233-240. Clínica de Bovinos, Campus Garanhuns, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, Av. Bom Pastor s/n, Cx. Postal 152, Mundaú, Garanhuns, PE 55292-901, Brazil. E-mail: aclcamara@yahoo.com.br Three outbreaks of poisoning by Prosopis juliflora pods are reported in the semiarid region of the state of Pernambuco, Northeastern Brazil, in cattle grazing in fields invaded by the plant or ingesting mesquite beans as a concentrate food. In two farms the disease occurred sporadically. In another, 112 (9.28%) cattle out of 1206 were affected, 84 (6.96%) died due to emaciation, and 28 (2.32%) gained weight after the pods had been withdrawn from the feed. Main clinical signs were progressive weight loss, atrophy of the masseter muscles, dropped jaw, tongue protrusion, difficulties in prehending food, tilting the head during mastigation or rumination, salivation, impaired swallowing, and decreased tone of the tongue. The hematology reveals hypoproteinemia and anemia. Gross lesions were emaciation and reduction in size of the masseter muscles, which appear thinner than normal and grayish due muscular atrophy. Degeneration of neurons of the trigeminal motor nuclei, Wallerian degeneration of the trigeminal nerve roots, and muscular atrophy of the masseter muscles with substitution by fibrous tissue were observed on histologic examination. For the prevention of the poisoning is necessary to limit the amount of mesquite beans in animal nutrition. It is also necessary to develop research to determine the economic and sustainability of the use of Prosopis juliflora for animal food, human food or other uses such as charcoal, wood and fuel wood.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Eurides D., Silva L.A.F., Daleck C.R., Fioravanti M.C., Gonçalves G.F., Silva O.F. & Nadri A.B. 2009. [Implantation of the autologous auricular cartilagem in the repair of penile deviation in cattle.] Implante de cartilagem auricular autóloga no reparo de desvio de pênis de bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(3):258-262. Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Av. Pará 1720, Campus Umuarama, Uberlândia, MG 38400-902, Brazil. E-mail: duvaldo@ufu.br Eighteen 18 to 24-month-old mixed breed bullocks were submitted to removal of the apical ligament of the penis to induce penile deviation. After 60 days from the surgery the steers were put together with cows in heat. A ventral and right lateral penis deviation leading to incapacity to copulate was observed. The bullocks were then submitted to an autolgous transplant of a cartilage segment from the ear pinna placed on top of the tunica albuginea, replacing the penile ligament apical tha had been removed. The implanted material was well tolerated; histologically with only infiltration few mononuclear cells, polymorpho nucleated cells and giant cells, and fibrosis, which caused strong adherence and provided ability to sustain the free penile extremity. The bullocks that were cows in heat did not show any degree of penile deviation nor any change in sexual behavior. The surgical method described here was shown to be satisfactory as to be indicated for correction of ventral and right lateral penile deviation in bullocks.

• Cattle surgery penile deviation repair implant

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Eurides D., Silva L.A.F., Daleck C.R., Fioravanti M.C., Gonçalves G.F., Silva O.F. & Nadri A.B. 2009. [Implantation of the autologous auricular cartilagem in the repair of penile deviation in cattle.] Implante de cartilagem auricular autóloga no reparo de desvio de pênis de bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(3):258-262. Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Av. Pará 1720, Campus Umuarama, Uberlândia, MG 38400-902, Brazil. E-mail: duvaldo@ufu.br Eighteen 18 to 24-month-old mixed breed bullocks were submitted to removal of the apical ligament of the penis to induce penile deviation. After 60 days from the surgery the steers were put together with cows in heat. A ventral and right lateral penis deviation leading to incapacity to copulate was observed. The bullocks were then submitted to an autolgous transplant of a cartilage segment from the ear pinna placed on top of the tunica albuginea, replacing the penile ligament apical tha had been removed. The implanted material was well tolerated; histologically with only infiltration few mononuclear cells, polymorpho nucleated cells and giant cells, and fibrosis, which caused strong adherence and provided ability to sustain the free penile extremity. The bullocks that were cows in heat did not show any degree of penile deviation nor any change in sexual behavior. The surgical method described here was shown to be satisfactory as to be indicated for correction of ventral and right lateral penile deviation in bullocks.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Fontana P.A., Zanuzzi C.N., Barbeito C.G., Gimeno E.J. & Portiansky E.L. 2009. Thymic atrophy in cattle poisoned with Solanum glaucophyllum. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(3):266-274. Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, Calle 60 y 118, 1900 La Plata, Argentina. E-mail: elporti@fcv.unlp.edu.ar Solanum glaucophyllum (Sg) [= S. malacoxylon] is a calcinogenic plant inducing “Enzootic Calcinosis” in cattle. The 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3, its main toxic principle, regulates bone and calcium metabolism and also exerts immunomodulatory effects. Thymocyte precursors from bone marrow-derived progenitor cells differentiate into mature T-cells. Differentiation of most T lymphocytes is characterized not only by the variable expression of CD4/CD8 receptor molecules and increased surface density of the T cell antigen receptor, but also by changes in the glycosylation pattern of cell surface glycolipids or glycoproteins. Thymocytes exert a feedback influence on thymic non-lymphoid cells. Sg-induced modifications on cattle thymus T-lymphocytes and on non-lymphoid cells were analysed. Heifers were divided into 5 groups (control, intoxicated with Sg during 15, 30 or 60 days, and probably recovered group). Histochemical, immunohistochemical, lectinhistochemical and morphometric techniques were used to characterize different cell populations of the experimental heifers. Sg-poisoned heifers showed a progressive cortical atrophy that was characterized using the peanut agglutinin (PNA) lectin that recognizes immature thymocytes. These animals also increased the amount of non-lymphoid cells per unit area detected with the Picrosirius technique, WGA and DBA lectins, and pancytokeratin and S-100 antibodies. The thymus atrophy found in intoxicated animals resembled that of the physiological aging process. A reversal effect on these changes was observed after suppression of the intoxication. These findings suggest that Sg-intoxication induces either directly, through the 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 itself, or indirectly through the hypercalcemia, the observed alteration of the thymus.

• Calcinosis; calcitriol cattle immunohistochemistry lectinhistochemistry plant poisoning Solanum glaucophyllum S. malacoxylon thymus gland

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Fontana P.A., Zanuzzi C.N., Barbeito C.G., Gimeno E.J. & Portiansky E.L. 2009. Thymic atrophy in cattle poisoned with Solanum glaucophyllum. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(3):266-274. Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, Calle 60 y 118, 1900 La Plata, Argentina. E-mail: elporti@fcv.unlp.edu.ar Solanum glaucophyllum (Sg) [= S. malacoxylon] is a calcinogenic plant inducing “Enzootic Calcinosis” in cattle. The 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3, its main toxic principle, regulates bone and calcium metabolism and also exerts immunomodulatory effects. Thymocyte precursors from bone marrow-derived progenitor cells differentiate into mature T-cells. Differentiation of most T lymphocytes is characterized not only by the variable expression of CD4/CD8 receptor molecules and increased surface density of the T cell antigen receptor, but also by changes in the glycosylation pattern of cell surface glycolipids or glycoproteins. Thymocytes exert a feedback influence on thymic non-lymphoid cells. Sg-induced modifications on cattle thymus T-lymphocytes and on non-lymphoid cells were analysed. Heifers were divided into 5 groups (control, intoxicated with Sg during 15, 30 or 60 days, and probably recovered group). Histochemical, immunohistochemical, lectinhistochemical and morphometric techniques were used to characterize different cell populations of the experimental heifers. Sg-poisoned heifers showed a progressive cortical atrophy that was characterized using the peanut agglutinin (PNA) lectin that recognizes immature thymocytes. These animals also increased the amount of non-lymphoid cells per unit area detected with the Picrosirius technique, WGA and DBA lectins, and pancytokeratin and S-100 antibodies. The thymus atrophy found in intoxicated animals resembled that of the physiological aging process. A reversal effect on these changes was observed after suppression of the intoxication. These findings suggest that Sg-intoxication induces either directly, through the 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 itself, or indirectly through the hypercalcemia, the observed alteration of the thymus.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Claus M.P., Lunardi M., Alfieri A.F., Sartori D., Fungaro M.H.P & Alfieri A.A. 2009. Identification of the recently described new type of bovine papillomavirus (BPV-8) in a Brazilian beef cattle herd. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(1):25-28. Laboratório de Virologia Animal, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Centro de Ciências Agrárias, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Cx. Postal 6001, Campus Universitário, Londrina, PR 86051-990, Brazil. E-mail: alfieri@uel.br Bovine papillomavirus type 8 (BPV-8) was first detected and described in teat warts as well as in healthy teat skin from cattle raised in Japan. The entire viral genome was sequenced in 2007. Additionally, a variant of BPV-8, BPV-8-EB, was also identified from papillomatous lesions of a European bison in Slovakia. In Brazil, despite the relatively common occurrence of BPV infections, the identification and determination of viral types present in cattle is still sporadic. The aim of this study is to report the occurrence of the recently described BPV-8 in Brazil. The virus was identified in a skin warts obtained from a beef cattle herd located in Parana state, southern Brazil. The papilloma had a macular, non-verrucous gross aspect and was located on the dorsal thorax of a cow. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed using generic primers for partial amplification of L1 gene. The obtained amplicon (480bp) was cloned and two selected clones were sequenced. The nucleotide sequence was compared to existing papillomaviral genomic sequences, identifying the virus as BPV type 8. This study represents the first report of BPV-8 occurrence in Brazil, what suggests its presence among Brazilian cattle.

• Bovine bovine papillomavirus type 8 BPV-8 cutaneous papillomatosis molecular analysis

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Claus M.P., Lunardi M., Alfieri A.F., Sartori D., Fungaro M.H.P & Alfieri A.A. 2009. Identification of the recently described new type of bovine papillomavirus (BPV-8) in a Brazilian beef cattle herd. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(1):25-28. Laboratório de Virologia Animal, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Centro de Ciências Agrárias, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Cx. Postal 6001, Campus Universitário, Londrina, PR 86051-990, Brazil. E-mail: alfieri@uel.br Bovine papillomavirus type 8 (BPV-8) was first detected and described in teat warts as well as in healthy teat skin from cattle raised in Japan. The entire viral genome was sequenced in 2007. Additionally, a variant of BPV-8, BPV-8-EB, was also identified from papillomatous lesions of a European bison in Slovakia. In Brazil, despite the relatively common occurrence of BPV infections, the identification and determination of viral types present in cattle is still sporadic. The aim of this study is to report the occurrence of the recently described BPV-8 in Brazil. The virus was identified in a skin warts obtained from a beef cattle herd located in Parana state, southern Brazil. The papilloma had a macular, non-verrucous gross aspect and was located on the dorsal thorax of a cow. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed using generic primers for partial amplification of L1 gene. The obtained amplicon (480bp) was cloned and two selected clones were sequenced. The nucleotide sequence was compared to existing papillomaviral genomic sequences, identifying the virus as BPV type 8. This study represents the first report of BPV-8 occurrence in Brazil, what suggests its presence among Brazilian cattle.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Munhoz A.D., Pereira M.J.S., Flausino W. & Lopes C.W.G. 2009. Neospora caninum seropositivity in cattle breeds in the South Fluminense Paraíba Valley, state of Rio de Janeiro. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(1):29-32. Departamento de Parasitologia Animal, Instituto de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil. E-mail: lopescwg@ufrrj.br The infection by Neospora caninum of different cattle breeds in dairy properties in two municipalities of the South Fluminense Paraíba Valley, state of Rio de Janeiro, was evaluated. Considering a sampling universe of 2,491 cows, blood samples were collected from 563 dairy cows in 57 farms, which were randomically selected in proportion to the number of animals, using a random stratified sampling system. For each property the number of selected cows was proportional to the herd size. Abortion or other reproductive disorders were not considered as criteria for selecting the animals, and seropositivity was determined by indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). A high association (p=0.006) between seropositivity and racial patterns was found. The analysis revealed that in comparison of pure black-and-white Holstein cows versus Zebu (p=0.0028), Holstein cows showed 2.65 times greater odds for seropositivity. In the same way, by comparing black-and-white Holstein versus Zebu + crossbreed Zebu/Holstein (p=0.01), it was noted that there is 2.23 times more chance for seropositivity in Holstein cattle. There were no significant differences concerning the comparison of Holstein cattle versus crossbreed Zebu/Holstein (p=0.08) or Zebu versus crossbreed Zebu/Holstein (p=0.11). This study supports the hypothesis that there is a close association between cattle breeds and the frequency of infection by N. caninum.

• Neospora caninum association cattle breed

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Munhoz A.D., Pereira M.J.S., Flausino W. & Lopes C.W.G. 2009. Neospora caninum seropositivity in cattle breeds in the South Fluminense Paraíba Valley, state of Rio de Janeiro. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(1):29-32. Departamento de Parasitologia Animal, Instituto de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil. E-mail: lopescwg@ufrrj.br The infection by Neospora caninum of different cattle breeds in dairy properties in two municipalities of the South Fluminense Paraíba Valley, state of Rio de Janeiro, was evaluated. Considering a sampling universe of 2,491 cows, blood samples were collected from 563 dairy cows in 57 farms, which were randomically selected in proportion to the number of animals, using a random stratified sampling system. For each property the number of selected cows was proportional to the herd size. Abortion or other reproductive disorders were not considered as criteria for selecting the animals, and seropositivity was determined by indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). A high association (p=0.006) between seropositivity and racial patterns was found. The analysis revealed that in comparison of pure black-and-white Holstein cows versus Zebu (p=0.0028), Holstein cows showed 2.65 times greater odds for seropositivity. In the same way, by comparing black-and-white Holstein versus Zebu + crossbreed Zebu/Holstein (p=0.01), it was noted that there is 2.23 times more chance for seropositivity in Holstein cattle. There were no significant differences concerning the comparison of Holstein cattle versus crossbreed Zebu/Holstein (p=0.08) or Zebu versus crossbreed Zebu/Holstein (p=0.11). This study supports the hypothesis that there is a close association between cattle breeds and the frequency of infection by N. caninum.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Scarpelli L., Lopes W.D.Z., Migani M., Bresciani K.D.S. & Costa A.J. 2009. Toxoplasma gondii in experimentally infected Bos taurus and Bos indicus semen and tissues. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(1):59-64. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Via de Acesso Prof. Paulo Donatto Castellani s/n, Jaboticabal, SP 14884-900, Brazil. E-mail: wdzlopes@hotmail.com Eighteen young steers were inoculated with Toxoplasma gondii and randomly distributed into three groups of six animals each: GI, 2.5x105 “P” strain oocysts, GII, 5.0x106 “RH” strain tachyzoites, and GIII (Control). Clinical, serological and parasitemia exams were realized. Parasite investigation by bioassay and PCR was realized on semen and fragments of skeletal musculature, lymph nodes, brain, retina, spleen, liver, lung, testicle, epididymis and seminal vesicle. Blood and semen samples were collected on days -2, -1, 1, 3, 5, 7, 14 and weekly thereafter, up to postinfection day (PID) 84. The inoculated steers (GI and GII) presented hyperthermia from PID 3 to 16. Antibodies against T. gondii were detected through the indirect fluorescence antibody test (IFAT) on PID 5 (1:16) in both inoculated groups (oocysts and tachyzoites), reaching peaks of 1:4096 on PID 7. Parasitemia outbursts occurred in all infected bovines, principally from PID 7 to 28, independent of the strain and inoculate used. Bioassays revealed the presence of parasites in semen samples of animals infected with oocysts (GI) and tachyzoites (GII) on several experimental days between PID 7 and 84. Tissue parasitism by T. gondii was diagnosed by bioassay and the PCR technique in several organ and tissue fragments. These findings suggest the possibility of sexual transmission of T. gondii in the bovine species.

• Cattle PCR semen Toxoplasma gondii Apicomplexa

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Scarpelli L., Lopes W.D.Z., Migani M., Bresciani K.D.S. & Costa A.J. 2009. Toxoplasma gondii in experimentally infected Bos taurus and Bos indicus semen and tissues. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(1):59-64. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Via de Acesso Prof. Paulo Donatto Castellani s/n, Jaboticabal, SP 14884-900, Brazil. E-mail: wdzlopes@hotmail.com Eighteen young steers were inoculated with Toxoplasma gondii and randomly distributed into three groups of six animals each: GI, 2.5x105 “P” strain oocysts, GII, 5.0x106 “RH” strain tachyzoites, and GIII (Control). Clinical, serological and parasitemia exams were realized. Parasite investigation by bioassay and PCR was realized on semen and fragments of skeletal musculature, lymph nodes, brain, retina, spleen, liver, lung, testicle, epididymis and seminal vesicle. Blood and semen samples were collected on days -2, -1, 1, 3, 5, 7, 14 and weekly thereafter, up to postinfection day (PID) 84. The inoculated steers (GI and GII) presented hyperthermia from PID 3 to 16. Antibodies against T. gondii were detected through the indirect fluorescence antibody test (IFAT) on PID 5 (1:16) in both inoculated groups (oocysts and tachyzoites), reaching peaks of 1:4096 on PID 7. Parasitemia outbursts occurred in all infected bovines, principally from PID 7 to 28, independent of the strain and inoculate used. Bioassays revealed the presence of parasites in semen samples of animals infected with oocysts (GI) and tachyzoites (GII) on several experimental days between PID 7 and 84. Tissue parasitism by T. gondii was diagnosed by bioassay and the PCR technique in several organ and tissue fragments. These findings suggest the possibility of sexual transmission of T. gondii in the bovine species.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Gabriel A.L., Kommers G.D., Trost M.E., Barros C.S.L., Pereira D.B., Schwendler S.E. & Santurio J.M. 2008. [Outbreak of cutaneous pythiosis in cattle.] Surto de pitiose cutânea em bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(12):583-587. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Camobi, Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil. E-mail: glaukommers@yahoo.com Seventy-six young mixed breed cattle of both sexes, presented multifocal ulcerated nodular cutaneous lesions localized in the medial and lateral aspects of fore and hindlimbs, ventral neck, sternum, and tail. The disease occurred during summer and lesions were observed on areas of the body which were in contact with water of irrigation channels for long periods. Histologically, there were multiple granulomas and pyogranulomas with few negative profiles of hyphae, which were better visualized throughout Grocott methenamine silver stain. Definitive etiologic diagnosis was based on immuno-histochemistry with anti-Pythium insidiosum polyclonal antibody. Additionally, an indirect ELISA test was performed. Bovine cutaneous pythiosis outbreaks are uncommon and, particularly as occurred in the cattle of this report, all affected animals had spontaneous healing within two to three weeks.

• Pythiosis Pythium insidiosum diseases of cattle immunohistochemistry ELISA test pathology

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Gabriel A.L., Kommers G.D., Trost M.E., Barros C.S.L., Pereira D.B., Schwendler S.E. & Santurio J.M. 2008. [Outbreak of cutaneous pythiosis in cattle.] Surto de pitiose cutânea em bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(12):583-587. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Camobi, Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil. E-mail: glaukommers@yahoo.com Seventy-six young mixed breed cattle of both sexes, presented multifocal ulcerated nodular cutaneous lesions localized in the medial and lateral aspects of fore and hindlimbs, ventral neck, sternum, and tail. The disease occurred during summer and lesions were observed on areas of the body which were in contact with water of irrigation channels for long periods. Histologically, there were multiple granulomas and pyogranulomas with few negative profiles of hyphae, which were better visualized throughout Grocott methenamine silver stain. Definitive etiologic diagnosis was based on immuno-histochemistry with anti-Pythium insidiosum polyclonal antibody. Additionally, an indirect ELISA test was performed. Bovine cutaneous pythiosis outbreaks are uncommon and, particularly as occurred in the cattle of this report, all affected animals had spontaneous healing within two to three weeks.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Tortelli P.F., Barbosa J.D., Oliveira C.M.C., Dutra M.D., Cerqueira V.D., Oliveira C.A., Riet-Correa F. & Riet-Correa G. 2008. [Poisoning by Ipomoea asarifolia in cattle and sheep in the Marajó Island, Northern Brazil.] Intoxicação por Ipomoea asarifolia em bovinos e ovinos na Ilha de Marajó. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(12):622-626. Central de Diagnóstico Veterinário, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Campus de Castanhal, Universidade Federal do Pará, Rua Maximino Porpino da Silva 1000, Pirapora, Castanhal, PA 68743-080, Brazil. E-mail: griet@ufpa.br To determine plant poisonings occurring on Marajo Island, state of Pará, northern Brazil, 7 farms were visited. All farms had native pastures with low forage availability severely infected by Ipomoea asarifolia. In 5 farms poisoning in sheep by the plant was reported. The disease occurs mainly during the dry period and lambs are more frequently affected than adult sheep. Sheep with clinical signs were observed in 2 farms. In 4 establishments farmers reported the occurrence of I. asarifolia poisoning in cattle. In one farm affected cattle were observed during two visits, one during the dry season and another at the start of the raining season. Deaths are observed mainly in calves. In both species the poisoning occurs every year with variable morbidity and low mortality. One bovine and one sheep with severe clinical signs were euthanized and post-mortem examination was performed. No gross or histologic significant lesions were observed. In all farms buffaloes were raised together with cattle and sheep, and in 3 farms goats were also raised. None of the farmers reported the intoxication in these species.

• Cattle Ipomoea asarifolia sheep toxic plants tremogenic toxins

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Tortelli P.F., Barbosa J.D., Oliveira C.M.C., Dutra M.D., Cerqueira V.D., Oliveira C.A., Riet-Correa F. & Riet-Correa G. 2008. [Poisoning by Ipomoea asarifolia in cattle and sheep in the Marajó Island, Northern Brazil.] Intoxicação por Ipomoea asarifolia em bovinos e ovinos na Ilha de Marajó. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(12):622-626. Central de Diagnóstico Veterinário, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Campus de Castanhal, Universidade Federal do Pará, Rua Maximino Porpino da Silva 1000, Pirapora, Castanhal, PA 68743-080, Brazil. E-mail: griet@ufpa.br To determine plant poisonings occurring on Marajo Island, state of Pará, northern Brazil, 7 farms were visited. All farms had native pastures with low forage availability severely infected by Ipomoea asarifolia. In 5 farms poisoning in sheep by the plant was reported. The disease occurs mainly during the dry period and lambs are more frequently affected than adult sheep. Sheep with clinical signs were observed in 2 farms. In 4 establishments farmers reported the occurrence of I. asarifolia poisoning in cattle. In one farm affected cattle were observed during two visits, one during the dry season and another at the start of the raining season. Deaths are observed mainly in calves. In both species the poisoning occurs every year with variable morbidity and low mortality. One bovine and one sheep with severe clinical signs were euthanized and post-mortem examination was performed. No gross or histologic significant lesions were observed. In all farms buffaloes were raised together with cattle and sheep, and in 3 farms goats were also raised. None of the farmers reported the intoxication in these species.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Pedroso P.M.O., Pescador C.A., Bandarra P.M., Raymundo D.L., Borba M.R., Wouters F., Bezerra Jr P.S. & Driemeier D. 2008. [Standardization of immunohistochemistry technique for detection of rabies virus in formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded tissue samples from central nervous system of cattle.] Padronização da técnica de imuno-histoquímica para raiva em amostras de tecido do sistema nervoso central de bovinos fixadas em formol e emblocadas em parafina. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(12):627-632. Setor de Patologia 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 For standardization of the rabies immunohistochemistry technique, five samples of central nervous system (CNS) of cattle naturally infected with rabies virus were examined. One polyclonal antibody and two monoclonal antibodies were used. The following reagents were evaluated for antigen retrieval: XIV protease, proteinase K and citrate buffer (pH 6.0) boiling at 100°C during 15 minutes in bain-marie. Detection of rabic antigen was possible with the three antibodies tested. The polyclonal antibody was superior to the monoclonal antibodies, demonstrating good results with the three antigen retrieval protocols. The highest intensity staining was obtained with the citrate buffer and heat. The immunohistochemistry technique demonstrated the presence of viral antigens in the cytoplasm of neurons, in form of aggregates or with round or oval shape. The antigens were found as single or multiples inclusion bodies in the neurons. Immunohistochemistry is a fast method that can be used in routine procedures in cases where rabies is suspected, especially when the brain is submitted to the laboratory as formalin-fixed fragments or when samples could not be immediately shipped. The technique is also useful for retrospective studies.

• Diseases of cattle infectious diseases diseases of the central nervous system rabies immunohistochemistry standardization

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Pedroso P.M.O., Pescador C.A., Bandarra P.M., Raymundo D.L., Borba M.R., Wouters F., Bezerra Jr P.S. & Driemeier D. 2008. [Standardization of immunohistochemistry technique for detection of rabies virus in formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded tissue samples from central nervous system of cattle.] Padronização da técnica de imuno-histoquímica para raiva em amostras de tecido do sistema nervoso central de bovinos fixadas em formol e emblocadas em parafina. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(12):627-632. Setor de Patologia 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 For standardization of the rabies immunohistochemistry technique, five samples of central nervous system (CNS) of cattle naturally infected with rabies virus were examined. One polyclonal antibody and two monoclonal antibodies were used. The following reagents were evaluated for antigen retrieval: XIV protease, proteinase K and citrate buffer (pH 6.0) boiling at 100°C during 15 minutes in bain-marie. Detection of rabic antigen was possible with the three antibodies tested. The polyclonal antibody was superior to the monoclonal antibodies, demonstrating good results with the three antigen retrieval protocols. The highest intensity staining was obtained with the citrate buffer and heat. The immunohistochemistry technique demonstrated the presence of viral antigens in the cytoplasm of neurons, in form of aggregates or with round or oval shape. The antigens were found as single or multiples inclusion bodies in the neurons. Immunohistochemistry is a fast method that can be used in routine procedures in cases where rabies is suspected, especially when the brain is submitted to the laboratory as formalin-fixed fragments or when samples could not be immediately shipped. The technique is also useful for retrospective studies.