PESQUISA VETERINÁRIA BRASILEIRA

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Bonapaz R.S., Hermes-Uliana C., Santos F.N., Silva A.V., Araújo E.J.A. & Sant’Ana D.M.G. 2010. Effects of infection with Toxoplasma gondii oocysts on the intestinal wall and the myenteric plexus of chicken (Gallus gallus). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 30(9):787-792. Laboratório de Neurogastroenterologia Experimental, Universidade Paranaense, Praça Mascarenhas de Moraes 4282, Centro, Umuarama, PR 87506-140, Brazil. E-mail: debora@unipar.br This paper aims to analyze the effects of the Toxoplasma gondii infection in the intestinal wall and myenteric plexus of chicken (Gallus gallus). Ten 36-day-old chickens were separated into two groups: control and experimental, orally inoculated with oocysts of the T. gondii strain M7741 genotype III. After 60 days the birds were submitted to euthanasia and had their duodenum removed. Part of the intestinal segments was submitted to histological routine, HE staining, PAS histochemical technique, and Alcian Blue. Qualitative analysis of the intestinal wall and comparative measurements among the groups with respect to total wall thickness, muscle tunic, mucosa, and tunica mucosa were carried out. Caliciform cells were quantified. The other part of the intestinal segments was fixed in formol acetic acid and dissected having the tunica mucosa and the tela submucosa removed. Neurons were stained with Giemsa, counted, and measured. Chickens from the experimental group presented diarrhea and inflammatory infiltrates in the tunica mucosa, thickness reduction of all the parameters assessed in the intestinal wall, and an increase of the number of caliciform cells. There was a ~70% reduction regarding the intensity of myenteric neurons; and the remaining cells presented a reduction of ~2.4% of the perikarion and ~40.5% of the nucleus (p<0.05). Chronic infection induced by T. gondii oocysts resulted in intestinal wall atrophy, mucin secretion increase, death and atrophy of chicken myenteric plexus neurons. Death and atrophy of myenteric plexus neurons may be related with the causes of diarrhea observed in chickens with toxoplasmosis.

• Toxoplasma gondii toxoplasmosis toxoplasmose

Abstract in Portuguese:

RESUMO.- Bonapaz R.S., Hermes-Uliana C., Santos F.N., Silva A.V., Araújo E.J.A. & Sant’Ana D.M.G. 2010. Effects of infection with Toxoplasma gondii oocysts on the intestinal wall and the myenteric plexus of chicken (Gallus gallus). [Efeitos da infecção por oocistos de Toxoplasma gondii sobre a parede intestinal e o plexo mientérico de Gallus gallus.] Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 30(9):787-792. Laboratório de Neurogastroenterologia Experimental, Universidade Paranaense, Praça Mascarenhas de Moraes 4282, Centro, Umuarama, PR 87506-140, Brazil. E-mail: debora@unipar.br O objetivo deste trabalho foi analisar os efeitos da infecção pelo Toxoplasma gondii sobre a parede intestinal e o plexo mientérico de Gallus gallus. Dez galinhas de 36 dias de idade separadas em dois grupos: controle e experimental inoculado com oocistos da cepa M7741 de T. gondii (genótipo III) pela via oral. Após 60 dias os animais foram submetidos à eutanásia e o duodeno coletado. Parte dos segmentos intestinais foi submetida à rotina histológica, coloração por HE e técnica histoquímica de PAS e Alcian Blue. Realizou-se uma avaliação qualitativa da parede intestinal e medidas comparativas entre os grupos da espessura da parede total, túnica muscular, muscular da mucosa e túnica mucosa. As células caliciformes foram quantificadas. Outra parte dos segmentos intestinais foi fixada em formol acético e dissecada retirando-se a túnica mucosa e a tela submucosa. Os neurônios foram corados pela técnica de Giemsa, contados e mensurados. Os animais do grupo experimental apresentaram diarréia e infiltrados inflamatórios na túnica mucosa, redução da espessura de todos os parâmetros avaliados da parede intestinal e aumento do número das células caliciformes. Houve uma redução de ~70% da densidade dos neurônios mientéricos e as células remanescentes sofreram redução de ~2,4% do pericário e ~40,5% do núcleo (p<0,05). A infecção crônica induzida por oocistos de T. gondii levou a atrofia da parede intestinal, aumento da secreção de mucinas, morte e atrofia dos neurônios do plexo mientérico de galinhas. A morte e atrofia dos neurônios do plexo mientérico podem estar envolvidas na causa da diarréia observada em galinhas com toxoplasmose.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Dezengrini R., Silva S.C., Weiss M., Oliveira M.S., Traesel C.K., Weiblen R. & Flores E.F. 2010. [Effects of Foscarnet on the infection by bovine herpesviruses 1 and 5 in rabbits.] Efeitos do Foscarnet sobre a infecção pelos herpesvírus bovino tipos 1 e 5 em coelhos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 30(8):623-630. Setor de Virologia, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Centro de Ciências Rurais, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Av, Roraima 1000, Camobi, Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil. E-mail: eduardofurtadoflores@gmail.com The activity of Foscarnet (PFA) against three bovine herpesviruses (BoHVs) was previously demonstrated in cell culture. Herein we evaluated the effects of PFA on the infection and disease by BoHV-1 and BoHV-5 in a rabbit model. Rabbits inoculated with BoHV-5 in the conjunctival sac (IC) and treated with PFA (100 mg/kg/day) from day 1 to 17 post-inoculation (pi) shed less virus between days 2 and 6 pi comparing to untreated controls; this difference was significant at day 3 pi [F(9,108) = 2,23; P<0.03]. The morbidity and mortality rates of rabbits inoculated with BoHV-5 IC or intranasally (IN) were also significantly reduced in PFA-treated rabbits (50%; 11/22) comparing to untreated controls (95.4%; 21/22) (P<0.0008). In rabbits inoculated IC with BoHV-1, a reduction in virus shedding was observed in PFA-treated animals between days 1 and 4 pi; 6 and 7 pi. In addition, PFA-treated rabbits presented a longer incubation period and a shorter clinical course comparing to untreated controls (P<0.005 and P<0.04, respectively). The frequency and severity of ocular signs were also reduced in the PFA-treated group. These results demonstrate that PFA is effective against BoHV-1 and BoHV-5 in vivo and open the way towards its use in experimental therapy of herpetic infections in domestic animals.

• Antivirals BoHV-1 BoHV-5 PFA bovine herpesviruses 1 bovine herpesviruses 5 Foscarnet herpesvírus bovino tipo 1 herpesvírus bovino tipo 5

Abstract in Portuguese:

RESUMO.- Dezengrini R., Silva S.C., Weiss M., Oliveira M.S., Traesel C.K., Weiblen R. & Flores E.F. 2010. [Effects of Foscarnet on the infection by bovine herpesviruses 1 and 5 in rabbits.] Efeitos do Foscarnet sobre a infecção pelos herpesvírus bovino tipos 1 e 5 em coelhos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 30(8):623-630. Setor de Virologia, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Centro de Ciências Rurais, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Av, Roraima 1000, Camobi, Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil. E-mail: eduardofurtadoflores@gmail.com

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Cadore G.C., Vogel F.S.F., Sangioni L.A., Pena H.F.J. & Gennari S.M. 2010. [IgM and IgG as markers of infection transplacentary Neospora caninum in bovine fetuses.] IgM e IgG como marcadores da infecção transplacentária por Neospora caninum em fetos bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 30(7):551-553. Setor de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva (Doenças Parasitárias), Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Camobi, Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil. E-mail: fervogel@smail.com The aim of this study was to determine the occurrence of anti-Neospora caninum antibodies in serum samples collected from 260 bovine fetuses, between July 2007 and March 2008, in an abattoir in the municipality of Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. An indirect fluorescent antibody test was used to detect anti-N. caninum immunoglobulins G (IgG) and M (IgM), using a cut-off of 1:25. Considering IgG or IgM detection, 15% (39/260) of the samples tested were found positive. Among the positive samples, 38 (97.4%) were positive for IgG and 6 (15.4%) for IgM. However 5 (12.8%) of it were positive for both IgG and IgM. These results are in agreement with the proven ability of N. caninum to fetal infection. IgM testing was few relevant to detect N. caninum transplacental infection through fetal bovine serum analisys.

• Neospora caninum immuno-globulin G and M (IgG and IgM) Imunoglobulinas G e M (IgG e IgM).

Abstract in Portuguese:

RESUMO.- Cadore G.C., Vogel F.S.F., Sangioni L.A., Pena H.F.J. & Gennari S.M. 2010. [IgM and IgG as markers of infection transplacentary Neospora caninum in bovine fetuses.] IgM e IgG como marcadores da infecção transplacentária por Neospora caninum em fetos bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 30(7):551-553. Setor de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva (Doenças Parasitárias), Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Camobi, Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil. E-mail: fervogel@smail.com O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar a ocorrência de anticorpos anti-Neospora caninum em 260 amostras de soro coletadas de fetos bovinos de julho de 2007 a março de 2008, em abatedouro do município de Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. Para detecção de anticorpos anti-N. caninum, a técnica de imunofluorescência indireta foi utilizada tanto para a detecção de imunoglobulinas G e M. Amostras com títulos e” 25 foram consideradas positivas. Das 260 amostras testadas, 15% (39/260) foram positivas para anticorpos anti-N. caninum. Destas, em 38 (97,4%) foi detectada a presença de IgG anti-N. caninum e em seis (15,4%) de IgM. Em cinco amostras (12,8%) detectaram-se ambos, IgG e IgM. Os resultados reafirmam a habilidade do N. caninum em determinar infecção fetal. A pesquisa de IgM foi de limitada importância na detecção da infecção via transplacentária em soro fetal bovino.

Abstract in English:

RESUMO.- Brito L.G., Oliveira M.C.S., Rocha R.B., Silva Netto F.G., Marim A.D., Souza G.C.R. & Moura M.M.F. 2010. Anaplasma marginale infection in cattle from south-western Amazônia. [Infecção por Anaplasma marginale em bovinos na Amazônia Sul Ocidental, Brasil.] Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 30(3):249-254. Embrapa Rondônia, BR 364 Km 5,5, Porto Velho, RO 78900-970, Brazil. E-mail: luciana@cpafro.embrapa.br O presente estudo fornece os primeiros dados epidemiológicos relativos a infecção por Anaplasma marginale em bovinos criados na Amazônia Sul Ocidental brasileira. Foi adaptado um procedimento simples para a extração de DNA a partir de coágulos sanguíneos coletados em sete microrregiões do estado de Rondônia e duas mesoregiões do estado do Acre. A técnica da reação em cadeia da polimerase (PCR) foi aplicada para avaliar a freqüência da infecção por A. marginale em bovinos com idade entre 4 e 12 meses. Após a extração do DNA de cada amostra, a infecção nos bovinos foi investigada pela amplificação do gene “msp5” de A. marginale. As técnicas de amplificação do DNA revelaram que a freqüência de infecção por A. marginale foi de 98,6% (1.627/1.650) nas amostras provenientes de Rondônia e de 92,87% (208/225) nas amostras do Acre. A alta freqüência da infecção por A. marginale nos animais com idade entre 4 e 12 meses indica uma situação de estabilidade enzoótica nas regiões estudadas, as quais são comparáveis às detectadas por técnicas de imunodiagnóstico em outras regiões endêmicas no Brasil. A extração do DNA através do método aqui descrito pode ser utilizado em estudos epidemiológicos sobre a anaplasmose bovina e outros hemoparasitas.

• Anaplasma marginale

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Brito L.G., Oliveira M.C.S., Rocha R.B., Silva Netto F.G., Marim A.D., Souza G.C.R. & Moura M.M.F. 2010. Anaplasma marginale infection in cattle from south-western Amazônia. [Infecção por Anaplasma marginale em bovinos na Amazônia Sul Ocidental, Brasil.] Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 30(3):249-254. Embrapa Rondônia, BR 364 Km 5,5, Porto Velho, RO 78900-970, Brazil. E-mail: luciana@cpafro.embrapa.br The present study provides the first epidemiological data regarding infection by Anaplasma marginale in cattle reared in south-western Brazilian Amazonia. One simple procedure was adapted for the extraction of DNA from blood clots collected in seven microregions of Rondônia State and two mesoregions of Acre State. PCR method was used to asses the frequency of A. marginale infections in 4 to12-month-old cattle. The cattle infection was investigated by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using the specific primer “msp5” for A. marginale. The DNA amplifications revealed that the mean frequency of A. marginale infection was 98.6% (1,627/1,650) in samples from Rondonia, and 92.87% (208/225) in samples from Acre. The high frequency of A. marginale infections in 4 to 12-month-old cattle indicate a situation of enzootic stability in the studied areas and are comparable to those detected by immunodiagnosis in different endemic regions in Brazil. The DNA extraction of clotted blood method described here can be used for epidemiological studies on anaplasmosis and other bovine hemoparasites.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Silva A.D., Franco A.C., Esteves P.A., Spilki F.R. & Roehe P.M. 2009. Experimental infection of rabbits with a recombinant bovine herpesvirus type 5 (BoHV-5) gI, gE and US9-negative. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(11):913-918. Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor, Fepagro Saúde Animal, Estrada Municipal do Conde 6000, Caixa Postal 47, Eldorado do Sul, RS 92990-000, Brazil. E-mail: anafranco.ufrgs@gmail.com Bovine herpesvirus type 5 (BoHV-5) is a major cause of viral meningoencephalitis in cattle. The expression of different viral proteins has been associated with BoHV-5 neuropathogenesis. Among these, gI, gE and US9 have been considered essential for the production of neurological disease in infected animals. To evaluate the role of gI, gE and US9 in neurovirulence, a recombinant from which the respective genes were deleted (BoHV-5 gI-/gE-/US9-) was constructed and inoculated in rabbits of two age groups (four and eight weeks-old). When the recombinant virus was inoculated through the paranasal sinuses of four weeks-old rabbits, neurological disease was observed and death was the outcome in 4 out of 13 (30.7 %) animals, whereas clinical signs and death were observed in 11/13 (84.6%) of rabbits infected with the parental virus. In eight weeks-old rabbits, the BoHV-5 gI-/gE-/US9- did not induce clinically apparent disease and could not be reactivated after dexamethasone administration, whereas wild type BoHV-5 caused disease in 55.5% of the animals and was reactivated. These findings reveal that the simultaneous deletion of gI, gE and US9 genes did reduce but did not completely abolish the neurovirulence of BoHV-5 in rabbits, indicating that other viral genes may also play a role in the induction of neurological disease.

• Herpesvírus bovino tipo 5 BoHV-5

Abstract in Portuguese:

RESUMO.- Silva A.D., Franco A.C., Esteves P.A., Spilki F.R. & Roehe P.M. 2009. Experimental infection of rabbits with a recombinant bovine herpesvirus type 5 (BoHV-5) gI, gE and US9-negative. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(11):913-918. Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor, Fepagro Saúde Animal, Estrada Municipal do Conde 6000, Caixa Postal 47, Eldorado do Sul, RS 92990-000, Brazil. E-mail: anafranco.ufrgs@gmail.com O herpesvírus bovino tipo 5 é uma das principais causas de meningoencefalite viral em bovinos. A expressão de diferentes proteínas virais tem sido associada à neuropatogenia do BoHV-5. Entre estas, a gI, gE e US9 têm sido consideradas essenciais para a indução de sinais neurológicos nos animais infectados. Para avaliar o papel das proteínas gI, gE e US9 na neurovirulência, construiu-se um recombinante no qual os genes que codificam estas proteínas foram deletados, denominado BoHV-5 gI-/gE-/US9-. Este vírus foi inoculado em coelhos de idades diferentes (quatro e oito semanas de idade). Quando o vírus recombinante foi inoculado nos seios paranasais de coelhos de quatro semanas de idade, doença neurológica e morte foram observadas em 4 dos 13 (30,7 %) animais, enquanto que sinais clínicos e morte foram observados em 11/13 (84,6%) dos coelhos infectados com o vírus parental. Em coelhos de oito semanas de idade, o BoHV-5 gI-/gE-/US9- não induziu sinais clínicos aparentes e, após tentativa de reativação viral por tratamento com dexametasona, o vírus não foi re-excretado. Por outro lado, o vírus selvagem causou doença clínica em 55,5 % dos coelhos e foi re-excretado após tratamento com dexametasona. Estes achados revelam que a deleção simultânea dos genes gI, gE e US9 reduziu mas não aboliu completamente a neurovirulência do BoHV-5 em coelhos, indicando que outros genes virais possam ter papel na indução da doença neurológica.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Araújo M.R., Costa M.C. & Ecco R. 2009. [Occurrence of pneumonia associated to infection by Mannheimia haemolytica in sheep of Minas Gerais.] Ocorrência de pneumonia associada à infecção por Mannheimia haemolytica em ovinos de Minas Gerais. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(9):719-724. Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia Veterinárias, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Avenida Antônio Carlos 6627, Caixa Postal 567, Belo Horizonte, MG 31270-901, Brazil. E-mail: ecco@vet.ufmg.br This paper describes an outbreak of pneumonia in a sheep herd in the central region of Minas Gerais, Brazil. Clinically, the animals presented apathy, exhibited respiratory difficulty during 2 to 3 days or sudden death. The animals were not medicated and found dead. Grossly, the pulmonary findings were similar in all sheep. The pulmonary cranial lobes and the ventral portion of caudal lobes were consolidated and purulent exsudate streamed out of the airways. In the parenchyma of the cranial lobes there were white slightly prominent multifocal to coalescent areas with 0.2 to 0.5cm in diameter intercalated with dark red areas. Consolidated lesions occupied 70 to 80% of the lungs. Fibrinous pleuritis was observed in sheep 1, 2 and 3. Microscopically, the findings were fibrinopurulent bronchopneumonia with intense hyperemia, areas with intra-alveolar hemorrhage and thickening of interlobular septa with numerous neutrophils, cellular rests and scattering fibrin. Multifocal areas with liquefaction necrosis containing numerous bacterial colonies were observed in sheep 1, 2 and 3. In the cranial lobes of these sheep, there were areas with degenerated neutrophils forming clusters of basophilic cells with alongated nuclei (“oat cells”) associated with bacterial colonies. The histological findings were characteristic of pneumonia caused by Mannheimia (M.) haemolytica. Samples of the cranial lobes were sent for bacterial culture, and M. haemolytica was isolated and identified in all animals. This is the first report correlating pathological findings and the isolation of M. haemolytica as cause of bronchopneumonia in sheep in the country.

• Mannheimia haemolytica bronchopneumonia broncopneumonia

Abstract in Portuguese:

RESUMO.- Araújo M.R., Costa M.C. & Ecco R. 2009. [Occurrence of pneumonia associated to infection by Mannheimia haemolytica in sheep of Minas Gerais.] Ocorrência de pneumonia associada à infecção por Mannheimia haemolytica em ovinos de Minas Gerais. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(9):719-724. Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia Veterinárias, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Avenida Antônio Carlos 6627, Caixa Postal 567, Belo Horizonte, MG 31270-901, Brazil. E-mail: ecco@vet.ufmg.br O trabalho descreve um surto de pneumonia em ovinos em uma propriedade na região central de Minas Gerais. Clinicamente os animais apresentavam apatia, mostravam dificuldade respiratória durante dois ou três dias ou morriam subitamente. À necropsia as alterações pulmonares eram similares em todos os ovinos. Havia consolidação dos lobos craniais e da parte ventral dos lobos caudais e ao corte fluía exsudato mucopurulento da traquéia e dos brônquios. No parênquima dos lobos craniais havia áreas brancas multifocais a coalescentes com 0,2-0,5cm de diâmetro, levemente proeminentes e intercaladas por áreas vermelho-escuras. Pleurite fibrinosa foi observada nos Ovinos 1, 2 e 3. As lesões de consolidação ocupavam cerca de 70-80% da extensão pulmonar. Microscopicamente, as alterações eram de broncopneumonia fibrinopurulenta com intensa hiperemia, áreas com hemorragia intra-alveolar e espessamento dos septos interlobulares por inúmeros neutrófilos, restos celulares e intensa exsudação de fibrina. Áreas multifocais com necrose de liquefação contendo numerosas colônias bacterianas foram observadas no Ovino 3. Nos lobos craniais dos Ovinos 1, 2 e 3, haviam áreas com neutrófilos degenerados formando aglomerados de células alongadas com formato de “grãos de aveia” associados a colônias bacterianas. As alterações histológicas foram características de pneumonia causada por Mannheimia (M.) haemolytica. Amostras dos lobos craniais de todos os ovinos foram encaminhadas para cultivo bacteriológico e M. haemolytica foi isolada e identificada em todos os animais. Este é o primeiro relato correlacionando os achados patológicos e o isolamento de M. haemolytica como causa de broncopneumonia em ovinos no Brasil.

Abstract in English:

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

• Diseases of dogs Trypanosoma cruzi seroprevalence Mato Grosso do Sul

Abstract in Portuguese:

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

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Silva E.F., Seyffert N., Jouglard S.D.D., Athanazio D.A., Dellagostin O.A. & Brod C.S. 2009. [Seroprevalence of leptospiral infection in capybaras (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) in a slaughterhouse of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.] Soroprevalência da infecção leptospiral em capivaras (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) abatidas em um frigorífico do Rio Grande do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(8):174-176. Laboratório do Centro de Controle de Zoonoses, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, 96010-900 Pelotas, RS, Brazil. E-mail: efsilva@ufpel.edu.br Capybaras (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) are wild rodents from the American Continent with increasing importance as a commercial alternative source of meat for human consumption. Studies on seroprevalence for leptospiral infection are scarce and restricted to free living capybaras. We report detection of agglutinating antibodies against leptospires in 27% (6/22) of all animals in a slaughterhouse from Rio Grande do Sul. The highest antibody titers predicted Australis as the infecting serogroup due to reactions against a reference strain of serovar Bratislava and a canine local isolate of serovar Australis, characterized as Leptospira noguchii. The data presented in this report highlight that a considerable fraction of capybaras in captivity may behave as reservoir for pathogenic leptospires emphasizing the occupational risk of those who deal with animal farming and slaughter.

• Leptospirosis capybara serology agglutinins

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Silva E.F., Seyffert N., Jouglard S.D.D., Athanazio D.A., Dellagostin O.A. & Brod C.S. 2009. [Seroprevalence of leptospiral infection in capybaras (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) in a slaughterhouse of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.] Soroprevalência da infecção leptospiral em capivaras (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) abatidas em um frigorífico do Rio Grande do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(8):174-176. Laboratório do Centro de Controle de Zoonoses, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, 96010-900 Pelotas, RS, Brazil. E-mail: efsilva@ufpel.edu.br Capybaras (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) are wild rodents from the American Continent with increasing importance as a commercial alternative source of meat for human consumption. Studies on seroprevalence for leptospiral infection are scarce and restricted to free living capybaras. We report detection of agglutinating antibodies against leptospires in 27% (6/22) of all animals in a slaughterhouse from Rio Grande do Sul. The highest antibody titers predicted Australis as the infecting serogroup due to reactions against a reference strain of serovar Bratislava and a canine local isolate of serovar Australis, characterized as Leptospira noguchii. The data presented in this report highlight that a considerable fraction of capybaras in captivity may behave as reservoir for pathogenic leptospires emphasizing the occupational risk of those who deal with animal farming and slaughter.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Flores E.F., Weiblen R, Vogel F.S.F., Dezengrini R., Almeida S.R., Spilki F.R. & Roehe P.M. 2009. [Experimental neuropathogenesis of bovine herpesvirus 5 infection in rabbits.] Neuropatogênese experimental da infecção pelo herpesvírus bovino tipo 5 em coelhos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(1):1-16. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva. Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS. Brazil. E-mail: eduardofurtadoflores@gmail.com Several aspects of the biology of bovine herpesvirus 5 (BoHV-5) have been studied in rabbits, which develop acute infection and neurological disease upon experimental inoculation. The acute infection is followed by the establishment of latent infection, which can be naturally or artificially reactivated. The first experiments in rabbits established a protocol for virus inoculation and monitoring the infection, and characterized the main virological, clinical and pathological aspects of the acute infection. The pathogenesis of acute infection, from the initial viral replication at site of inoculation, pathways and kinetics of viral transport to the brain, distribution and virus replication in the central nervous system (CNS), cellular and tissue tropism, clinical signs and CNS pathology have been extensively studied using this animal model. Subsequently, several biological and molecular aspects of latent BoHV-5 infection have also been elucidated upon inoculation of rabbits. Rabbits have also been used to investigate the phenotype (neuroinvasiveness, neurogrowth) of field isolates and recombinant vaccine candidates, protection by passive immunity, vaccine protection, the efficacy of anti-viral drugs and support therapies for neurological disease. This animal model was also used to investigate the origin and distribution of electric impulses involved in seizures - a hallmark of BoHV-5 induced neurological infection - and also to test the efficacy of anti-convulsivants. In spite of the possible differences between rabbits and cattle - the natural host of the virus - the observations taken from this experimental model have greatly contributed to the knowledge of the biology of BoHV-5 infection. The present article presents a review of the main published and unpublished results and observations by our group, comprising more than a decade of studies on the pathogenesis of BoHV-5 infection in the rabbit model.

• Bovine herpesvirus 5 BoHV-5 rabbits experimental model

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Flores E.F., Weiblen R, Vogel F.S.F., Dezengrini R., Almeida S.R., Spilki F.R. & Roehe P.M. 2009. [Experimental neuropathogenesis of bovine herpesvirus 5 infection in rabbits.] Neuropatogênese experimental da infecção pelo herpesvírus bovino tipo 5 em coelhos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(1):1-16. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva. Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS. Brazil. E-mail: eduardofurtadoflores@gmail.com Several aspects of the biology of bovine herpesvirus 5 (BoHV-5) have been studied in rabbits, which develop acute infection and neurological disease upon experimental inoculation. The acute infection is followed by the establishment of latent infection, which can be naturally or artificially reactivated. The first experiments in rabbits established a protocol for virus inoculation and monitoring the infection, and characterized the main virological, clinical and pathological aspects of the acute infection. The pathogenesis of acute infection, from the initial viral replication at site of inoculation, pathways and kinetics of viral transport to the brain, distribution and virus replication in the central nervous system (CNS), cellular and tissue tropism, clinical signs and CNS pathology have been extensively studied using this animal model. Subsequently, several biological and molecular aspects of latent BoHV-5 infection have also been elucidated upon inoculation of rabbits. Rabbits have also been used to investigate the phenotype (neuroinvasiveness, neurogrowth) of field isolates and recombinant vaccine candidates, protection by passive immunity, vaccine protection, the efficacy of anti-viral drugs and support therapies for neurological disease. This animal model was also used to investigate the origin and distribution of electric impulses involved in seizures - a hallmark of BoHV-5 induced neurological infection - and also to test the efficacy of anti-convulsivants. In spite of the possible differences between rabbits and cattle - the natural host of the virus - the observations taken from this experimental model have greatly contributed to the knowledge of the biology of BoHV-5 infection. The present article presents a review of the main published and unpublished results and observations by our group, comprising more than a decade of studies on the pathogenesis of BoHV-5 infection in the rabbit model.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Asanome W., Koller F.L., Nottar E., Carregaro F.B., Corrêa A.M.R., Zlotowski P., Driemeier D. & Barcellos D.E.S.N. 2008. [Association between bacterial otitis and porcine circovirus 2 (PCV2) infection in pigs.] Associação entre otites bacterianas e infecção pelo circovírus suíno tipo 2 (PCV2) em suínos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(10):471-476. Setor de Suínos, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: davidbarcellos@terra.com.br The occurrence and bacteriology of purulent otitis in groups of pigs affected by three different clinical conditions are described: postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome (PMWS), depressed growth (attrition) and normal growth (control). A total of 385 animals, 60-130 days of age, were examined. Diagnosis of PMWS was confirmed by the presence of clinical signs and pathological findings compatible with the disease, and through detection of viral antigens in tissues by immunohistochemistry. From 242 pigs with PMWS, 57 (23.5%) showed purulent lesions in the middle ear. Among 119 pigs with attrition, only 1 (0.7%) presented the lesion. In 24 control pigs, middle ear lesions were not detected. The most frequently isolated agents from the lesions were Arcanobacterium pyogenes (43%), á–hemolytic Streptococci (37.2%) and Pasteurella multocida (27.9 %) out of 86 materials. The frequent occurrence of purulent lesions in the middle ear of PMWS affected pigs suggests that PCV2 infection may increase the susceptibility to bacterial otitis. The low occurrence of this disease in piglets with attrition suggests that otitis does not represent a significant cause for depressed growth in pigs from growing and finishing age. The isolation of A. pyogenes, á-hemolytic Streptococci and P. multocida from most of the lesions emphasizes the importance of these organisms as causal agents of otitis media in swine.

• Otitis media PCV2 PMWS PCVAD growth depression attrition bacteriology swine

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Asanome W., Koller F.L., Nottar E., Carregaro F.B., Corrêa A.M.R., Zlotowski P., Driemeier D. & Barcellos D.E.S.N. 2008. [Association between bacterial otitis and porcine circovirus 2 (PCV2) infection in pigs.] Associação entre otites bacterianas e infecção pelo circovírus suíno tipo 2 (PCV2) em suínos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(10):471-476. Setor de Suínos, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: davidbarcellos@terra.com.br The occurrence and bacteriology of purulent otitis in groups of pigs affected by three different clinical conditions are described: postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome (PMWS), depressed growth (attrition) and normal growth (control). A total of 385 animals, 60-130 days of age, were examined. Diagnosis of PMWS was confirmed by the presence of clinical signs and pathological findings compatible with the disease, and through detection of viral antigens in tissues by immunohistochemistry. From 242 pigs with PMWS, 57 (23.5%) showed purulent lesions in the middle ear. Among 119 pigs with attrition, only 1 (0.7%) presented the lesion. In 24 control pigs, middle ear lesions were not detected. The most frequently isolated agents from the lesions were Arcanobacterium pyogenes (43%), á–hemolytic Streptococci (37.2%) and Pasteurella multocida (27.9 %) out of 86 materials. The frequent occurrence of purulent lesions in the middle ear of PMWS affected pigs suggests that PCV2 infection may increase the susceptibility to bacterial otitis. The low occurrence of this disease in piglets with attrition suggests that otitis does not represent a significant cause for depressed growth in pigs from growing and finishing age. The isolation of A. pyogenes, á-hemolytic Streptococci and P. multocida from most of the lesions emphasizes the importance of these organisms as causal agents of otitis media in swine.