PESQUISA VETERINÁRIA BRASILEIRA

Abstract in English:

Oliveira F.N., Rech R.R., Rissi D.R., Barros R.R. & Barros C.S.L. 2005. [Poisoning in swine from the ingestion of Aeschynomene indica (Leg.Papilionoideae) seeds.] Intoxica-ção em suínos pela ingestão de sementes de Aeschynomene indica (Leg. Papilionoideae). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(3):135-142. Depto Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br A spontaneous outbreak of a neurological disease in swine caused by the ingestion of Aeschynomene indica seeds and the reproduction of the disease in the same animal species are reported. The natural outbreak occurred in a pig-raising facility in the central region of the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. On the premises there were 100 pigs (20 breeding sows and 80 young weaned pigs from several categories) that were fed a ration made by mixing 50% of corn bran, 25% of soybean bran, 5% of a commercial mix of vitamins and minerals, and 20% of broken rice contaminated with 40% of A. indica seeds. Although all pigs apparently ingested the same ration, only 45-day-old pigs were affected; morbidity, mortality and lethality rates were respectively 25%-40%, 8.5%-20%; and 25%-66%. Clinical signs appeared 24 hours after the beginning of feeding of A. indica seeds contaminated ration and included variable degrees of incoordinated gait, falls, sternal recumbency with the hind limbs in a wide base stance, lateral recumbency and death. It was not possible to ascertain how many pigs recovered nor the time frame of recovery. One pig was euthanatized and necropsied in the premises. The poisoning was reproduced in 5 young pigs (A-E) which were fed a ration containing 10% (Pig A), 15% (Pig B) and 20% (Pigs C-E) of A. indica seeds, and in one older pig (Pig F) which was fed a ration with 16.5% of A. indica seeds. Pigs A, B and F were euthanatized and Pigs C-E died of an acute disease respectively 16, 21 and 24 hours after the beginning of the experiment. Clinical signs were similar to those observed in pigs of the spontaneous outbreak. Necropsy findings included marked hyperemia of the encephalic leptomeninges of all pigs; there were large amounts of A. indica seeds in the stomach and reddening of the intestinal wall and bloody intestinal content in Pigs C-E. A hematoma was observed in the lungs of Pig C. The histopathological findings in the brain of pigs fed rations with larger concentrations (20%) of A. indica seeds (C-E) included congestion, edema and hemorrhage and swollen vascular endothelia with focal symmetrical distribution in several brain nuclei and in the telencephalic cortex. In Pigs A and B, and in Pig F, the case which received the lower dosage of the seeds of A. indica, and in the pig from the spontaneous outbreak, histopathological changes in the brain consisted of discrete focal symmetrical areas of malacia in which closely packed Gitter cells and astrocytosis, and capillaries with swollen endothelium obliterated the normal neuropil. The symmetrical malacic foci caused by the ingestion of A. indica seeds in swine affected cerebellar and vestibular nuclei, putamen, and the mesencephalic oculomotor and red nuclei. This indicates that the A. indica seeds ingestion was responsible for the neurological condition, that it may be fatal and seems to affect equally young and older swine. The clinical outcome and pathological changes were dose-dependent, and the brain lesions progressed from damaged blood vessels to vasogenic edema, hemorrhage and malacia.

• Poisonous plants plant poisoning Aeschynomene indica Leguminosae Papilionoideae pathology diseases of the central nervous system diseases of swine.

Abstract in Portuguese:

Oliveira F.N., Rech R.R., Rissi D.R., Barros R.R. & Barros C.S.L. 2005. [Poisoning in swine from the ingestion of Aeschynomene indica (Leg.Papilionoideae) seeds.] Intoxica-ção em suínos pela ingestão de sementes de Aeschynomene indica (Leg. Papilionoideae). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(3):135-142. Depto Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br A spontaneous outbreak of a neurological disease in swine caused by the ingestion of Aeschynomene indica seeds and the reproduction of the disease in the same animal species are reported. The natural outbreak occurred in a pig-raising facility in the central region of the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. On the premises there were 100 pigs (20 breeding sows and 80 young weaned pigs from several categories) that were fed a ration made by mixing 50% of corn bran, 25% of soybean bran, 5% of a commercial mix of vitamins and minerals, and 20% of broken rice contaminated with 40% of A. indica seeds. Although all pigs apparently ingested the same ration, only 45-day-old pigs were affected; morbidity, mortality and lethality rates were respectively 25%-40%, 8.5%-20%; and 25%-66%. Clinical signs appeared 24 hours after the beginning of feeding of A. indica seeds contaminated ration and included variable degrees of incoordinated gait, falls, sternal recumbency with the hind limbs in a wide base stance, lateral recumbency and death. It was not possible to ascertain how many pigs recovered nor the time frame of recovery. One pig was euthanatized and necropsied in the premises. The poisoning was reproduced in 5 young pigs (A-E) which were fed a ration containing 10% (Pig A), 15% (Pig B) and 20% (Pigs C-E) of A. indica seeds, and in one older pig (Pig F) which was fed a ration with 16.5% of A. indica seeds. Pigs A, B and F were euthanatized and Pigs C-E died of an acute disease respectively 16, 21 and 24 hours after the beginning of the experiment. Clinical signs were similar to those observed in pigs of the spontaneous outbreak. Necropsy findings included marked hyperemia of the encephalic leptomeninges of all pigs; there were large amounts of A. indica seeds in the stomach and reddening of the intestinal wall and bloody intestinal content in Pigs C-E. A hematoma was observed in the lungs of Pig C. The histopathological findings in the brain of pigs fed rations with larger concentrations (20%) of A. indica seeds (C-E) included congestion, edema and hemorrhage and swollen vascular endothelia with focal symmetrical distribution in several brain nuclei and in the telencephalic cortex. In Pigs A and B, and in Pig F, the case which received the lower dosage of the seeds of A. indica, and in the pig from the spontaneous outbreak, histopathological changes in the brain consisted of discrete focal symmetrical areas of malacia in which closely packed Gitter cells and astrocytosis, and capillaries with swollen endothelium obliterated the normal neuropil. The symmetrical malacic foci caused by the ingestion of A. indica seeds in swine affected cerebellar and vestibular nuclei, putamen, and the mesencephalic oculomotor and red nuclei. This indicates that the A. indica seeds ingestion was responsible for the neurological condition, that it may be fatal and seems to affect equally young and older swine. The clinical outcome and pathological changes were dose-dependent, and the brain lesions progressed from damaged blood vessels to vasogenic edema, hemorrhage and malacia.

Abstract in English:

Peixoto P.V., Malafaia P., Barbosa J.D. & Tokarnia C.H. 2005. [Principles of mineral supplementation in ruminants.] Princípios de suplementação mineral em ruminantes. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(3):195-200. Depto Nutrição Animal e Pastagem, Instituto de Zootecnia, UFRRJ, Km 47, Seropédica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil. E-mail: pfpeixoto@terra.com.br Although there is solid knowledge on mineral deficiencies and their consequences on health and productivity of cattle in Brazil, paradoxically, those informations, most of the time, are not used by professionals of the agricultural sciences, who persist in stimulating the widespread use of the so-called complete mineral mixtures. The deficiency of many minerals included in these supplements, as iron, chrome, sulfur, and others, do not occur under natural conditions or only in rare and very particular situations. The present paper deals with the misunderstandings and problems related to traditional mineral supplementation and discusses the main aspects of the so-called selective mineral supplementation that is based in supplying exclusively the deficient mineral(s) and these only in necessary amounts. This procedure can result in expressive economy (sometimes up to 700%) when compared with the commercial mineral supplementation usually employed. According to several estimates, mineral supplementation can account for 20 to 30% of the total cost of beef cattle production on tropical pastures. A reversion assay, in which a group of cattle receives the commercial mineral mixture routinely used on the farm, and another group which receives the selective supplement, is the best option for the elucidation of positive or negative effects between the two possibilities of mineral supplementation on a specific farm. Trough this assay, the effects of the two compositions of mineral supplements can be investigated rationally over a sufficient period of time, with no risks and minimal possibilities of economic losses.

• Mineral deficiencies mineral supplementation ruminants cattle.

Abstract in Portuguese:

Peixoto P.V., Malafaia P., Barbosa J.D. & Tokarnia C.H. 2005. [Principles of mineral supplementation in ruminants.] Princípios de suplementação mineral em ruminantes. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(3):195-200. Depto Nutrição Animal e Pastagem, Instituto de Zootecnia, UFRRJ, Km 47, Seropédica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil. E-mail: pfpeixoto@terra.com.br Although there is solid knowledge on mineral deficiencies and their consequences on health and productivity of cattle in Brazil, paradoxically, those informations, most of the time, are not used by professionals of the agricultural sciences, who persist in stimulating the widespread use of the so-called complete mineral mixtures. The deficiency of many minerals included in these supplements, as iron, chrome, sulfur, and others, do not occur under natural conditions or only in rare and very particular situations. The present paper deals with the misunderstandings and problems related to traditional mineral supplementation and discusses the main aspects of the so-called selective mineral supplementation that is based in supplying exclusively the deficient mineral(s) and these only in necessary amounts. This procedure can result in expressive economy (sometimes up to 700%) when compared with the commercial mineral supplementation usually employed. According to several estimates, mineral supplementation can account for 20 to 30% of the total cost of beef cattle production on tropical pastures. A reversion assay, in which a group of cattle receives the commercial mineral mixture routinely used on the farm, and another group which receives the selective supplement, is the best option for the elucidation of positive or negative effects between the two possibilities of mineral supplementation on a specific farm. Trough this assay, the effects of the two compositions of mineral supplements can be investigated rationally over a sufficient period of time, with no risks and minimal possibilities of economic losses.

Abstract in English:

Flores E.F., Weiblen R., Vogel F.S.F., Roehe P.M., Alfieri A.A. & Pituco E.M. 2005. [Bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) infection in Brazil: history, current situation and perspectives.] A infecção pelo vírus da Diarréia Viral Bovina (BVDV) no Brasil - histórico, situação atual e perspectivas. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(3):125-134. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: flores@ccr.ufsm.br Bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) is one of the most important pathogens of cattle worldwide. BVDV infection and associated diseases have been reported in Brazil since the late 1960ties. Several serological, virological, clinical and pathological reports demonstrate the widespread distribution of BVDV infection among Brazilian cattle. In addition to variable levels of positive serology in beef and dairy cattle, BVDV antibodies have been occasionally detected in swine, wild boars, goats, cervids and water buffaloes. BVDV infection has been diagnosed in aborted fetuses, buffy coats of persistently infected (PI) animals, clinical specimens from animals suffering from different clinical syndromes, semen of bulls of artificial insemination (AI) centers, in healthy fetuses and in commercial fetal bovine serum and/or cultured cells. About 50 isolates have been genetically and/or antigenically characterized up to date, whilst roughly an equivalent number of isolates awaits characterization. Most of the characterized isolates belong to BVDV-1 genotype, non-cytopathic (NCP) biotype, yet some BVDV-2 (and some CP BVDV) have been identified as well. Brazilian BVDV isolates display a high antigenic variability and are markedly different from North American vaccine strains. A few inactivated, polyvalent vaccines are currently licensed in the country, yet vaccination is still incipient in many regions: only about 2.5 million doses were marketed in 2003. The low serological cross-reactivity between vaccine strains and field isolates has recently stimulated national industries to develop vaccines containing Brazilian BVDV-1 and BVDV-2 strains. The overall knowledge about BVDV infection in Brazil has grown considerably in the last years, due to an increasing number of laboratories performing diagnosis and research. Studies on the pathogenesis, serological and molecular epidemiology and production of reagents for diagnosis have contributed decisively for the recent growing knowledge on BVDV infections in the country.

• Bovine viral diarrhea virus BVDV epidemiology diagnostic.

Abstract in Portuguese:

Flores E.F., Weiblen R., Vogel F.S.F., Roehe P.M., Alfieri A.A. & Pituco E.M. 2005. [Bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) infection in Brazil: history, current situation and perspectives.] A infecção pelo vírus da Diarréia Viral Bovina (BVDV) no Brasil - histórico, situação atual e perspectivas. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(3):125-134. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: flores@ccr.ufsm.br Bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) is one of the most important pathogens of cattle worldwide. BVDV infection and associated diseases have been reported in Brazil since the late 1960ties. Several serological, virological, clinical and pathological reports demonstrate the widespread distribution of BVDV infection among Brazilian cattle. In addition to variable levels of positive serology in beef and dairy cattle, BVDV antibodies have been occasionally detected in swine, wild boars, goats, cervids and water buffaloes. BVDV infection has been diagnosed in aborted fetuses, buffy coats of persistently infected (PI) animals, clinical specimens from animals suffering from different clinical syndromes, semen of bulls of artificial insemination (AI) centers, in healthy fetuses and in commercial fetal bovine serum and/or cultured cells. About 50 isolates have been genetically and/or antigenically characterized up to date, whilst roughly an equivalent number of isolates awaits characterization. Most of the characterized isolates belong to BVDV-1 genotype, non-cytopathic (NCP) biotype, yet some BVDV-2 (and some CP BVDV) have been identified as well. Brazilian BVDV isolates display a high antigenic variability and are markedly different from North American vaccine strains. A few inactivated, polyvalent vaccines are currently licensed in the country, yet vaccination is still incipient in many regions: only about 2.5 million doses were marketed in 2003. The low serological cross-reactivity between vaccine strains and field isolates has recently stimulated national industries to develop vaccines containing Brazilian BVDV-1 and BVDV-2 strains. The overall knowledge about BVDV infection in Brazil has grown considerably in the last years, due to an increasing number of laboratories performing diagnosis and research. Studies on the pathogenesis, serological and molecular epidemiology and production of reagents for diagnosis have contributed decisively for the recent growing knowledge on BVDV infections in the country.

Abstract in English:

Amorim S.L., Oliveira A.C.P., Riet-Correa F., Simões S.V.D., Medeiros R.M.T. & Clementino I.J. 2005. [Nutritional muscular dystrophy in sheep in Paraíba.] Distrofia muscular nutricional em ovinos na Paraíba. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(2):120-124. Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, UFCG, Campus de Patos, 58700-000 Patos, PB Brazil. E-mail: riet@cstr.ufcg.edu.br An outbreak of nutritional muscular dystrophy is reported in the semiarid region of northeastern Brazil affecting 3-4 months old Dorper sheep. The animals, weighing 30-40 kg, were fed ad libitum with milk, concentrated ration, Tifton hay, and a mineral mixture. Six out of 70 lambs were affected and died in the first 48 hours after the onset of the outbreak. Clinical signs were fever of 40-41ºC, incoordination followed by paralysis and recumbence, depression, prostration with decreased pupillary and corneal reflexes, decreased tonus of the tongue and maxilla, salivation, submaxillar edema, and increased cardiac and respiratory rates. Death occurred after a clinical manifestation period of 6-12 hours. At necropsy of three animals, skeletal muscles were pale, the liver was yellowish and enlarged, the parotid, submaxillary, retropharyngeal, prescapular and mediastinal lymph nodes were enlarged with red surface, and red areas were observed on the lung surface. On histology, segmental muscular necrosis was observed in all skeletal muscles examined. The liver had centrilobular fatty degeneration, and congestion was observed in the lung and lymph nodes. From 48-96 hours after the begin of the outbreak, another 3 animals were affected. They were treated with Vitamin A, E and D complex; two of them died and one survived. On the same farm, a flock of 20 Santa Inês sheep of the same age as the affected animals, fed with the same food, but no milk, and another 900 sheep of different ages were not affected. The over nutrition of sheep with fast growing rates, and the stress caused by two days of water restriction to improve milk consumption had been predisposing factors for the occurrence of the disease. It is also possible that some of the minerals supplemented interfered with selenium availability.

• Nutritional muscular dystrophy muscular segmental necrosis selenium and vitamine E deficiency sheep.

Abstract in Portuguese:

Amorim S.L., Oliveira A.C.P., Riet-Correa F., Simões S.V.D., Medeiros R.M.T. & Clementino I.J. 2005. [Nutritional muscular dystrophy in sheep in Paraíba.] Distrofia muscular nutricional em ovinos na Paraíba. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(2):120-124. Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, UFCG, Campus de Patos, 58700-000 Patos, PB Brazil. E-mail: riet@cstr.ufcg.edu.br An outbreak of nutritional muscular dystrophy is reported in the semiarid region of northeastern Brazil affecting 3-4 months old Dorper sheep. The animals, weighing 30-40 kg, were fed ad libitum with milk, concentrated ration, Tifton hay, and a mineral mixture. Six out of 70 lambs were affected and died in the first 48 hours after the onset of the outbreak. Clinical signs were fever of 40-41ºC, incoordination followed by paralysis and recumbence, depression, prostration with decreased pupillary and corneal reflexes, decreased tonus of the tongue and maxilla, salivation, submaxillar edema, and increased cardiac and respiratory rates. Death occurred after a clinical manifestation period of 6-12 hours. At necropsy of three animals, skeletal muscles were pale, the liver was yellowish and enlarged, the parotid, submaxillary, retropharyngeal, prescapular and mediastinal lymph nodes were enlarged with red surface, and red areas were observed on the lung surface. On histology, segmental muscular necrosis was observed in all skeletal muscles examined. The liver had centrilobular fatty degeneration, and congestion was observed in the lung and lymph nodes. From 48-96 hours after the begin of the outbreak, another 3 animals were affected. They were treated with Vitamin A, E and D complex; two of them died and one survived. On the same farm, a flock of 20 Santa Inês sheep of the same age as the affected animals, fed with the same food, but no milk, and another 900 sheep of different ages were not affected. The over nutrition of sheep with fast growing rates, and the stress caused by two days of water restriction to improve milk consumption had been predisposing factors for the occurrence of the disease. It is also possible that some of the minerals supplemented interfered with selenium availability.

Abstract in English:

França T.N., Ribeiro C.T., Cunha B.M. & Peixoto P.V. 2005. [Porcine Circovirosis: a review.] Circovirose Suína. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(2):59-72. Universidade Estácio de Sá, Curso de Medicina Veterinária, Disciplina de Anatomia Patológica, Estrada Boca do Mato 850, Vargem Pequena, RJ 22783-320, Brazil. E-mail: ticianaf@uol.com.br The literature of Porcine Circovirosis, including the main data on epidemiology and clinical, macroscopic and microscopic alterations of the infection of swine by Porcine Circovirus type 2 (PCV-2), is reviewed. There are various forms of infection: the [Porcine] Postweaning Multisystemic Wasting Syndrome (PMWS), Porcine Congenital Tremor, Porcine Dermatitis and Nephropathy Syndrome, and other associated or correlated diseases as the Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome, Proliferative Necrotizing Pneumonia, and reproductive disorders. As PMWS already has been reported from southern Brazil and from the state of Rio de Janeiro, the objective of this review is to draw attention to the implications of this virosis for swine production in Brazil and its economical importance.

• Porcine Circovirosis Porcine Circovirus type 2 Porcine Postweaning Multisystemic Wasting Syndrome Porcine Congenital Tremor Porcine Dermatitis and Nephropathy Syndrome Proliferative Necrotizing Pneumonia reproductive disorders of swine.

Abstract in Portuguese:

França T.N., Ribeiro C.T., Cunha B.M. & Peixoto P.V. 2005. [Porcine Circovirosis: a review.] Circovirose Suína. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(2):59-72. Universidade Estácio de Sá, Curso de Medicina Veterinária, Disciplina de Anatomia Patológica, Estrada Boca do Mato 850, Vargem Pequena, RJ 22783-320, Brazil. E-mail: ticianaf@uol.com.br The literature of Porcine Circovirosis, including the main data on epidemiology and clinical, macroscopic and microscopic alterations of the infection of swine by Porcine Circovirus type 2 (PCV-2), is reviewed. There are various forms of infection: the [Porcine] Postweaning Multisystemic Wasting Syndrome (PMWS), Porcine Congenital Tremor, Porcine Dermatitis and Nephropathy Syndrome, and other associated or correlated diseases as the Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome, Proliferative Necrotizing Pneumonia, and reproductive disorders. As PMWS already has been reported from southern Brazil and from the state of Rio de Janeiro, the objective of this review is to draw attention to the implications of this virosis for swine production in Brazil and its economical importance.

Abstract in English:

Penatti M.P.A., Silva A.S., Valadares G.F. & Leite D.S. 2005. Occurrence of F42 colonization factor in Escherichia coli strains isolated from piglets with diarrhea. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(1):31-33. Depto Microbiologia e Imunologia, Instituto de Biologia, Unicamp, Campinas, SP 13081-970, Brazil. E-mail: domingos@unicamp.br The objective of this study was to determine the presence of the colonization factor F42 in 168 strains of Escherichia coli isolated from diarrheic stools of newborn piglets. The presence of F42 in 12 (7.1%) strains was detected with the agglutination test. Through the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) of F42 positive strains, gene encoding enterotoxins (ST-I, ST-II, LT-I and LT-II) were detected. The finding of ST-I/ST-II genes in 50% of the strains, ST-I (16%) and ST-II (25%) indicates a strong association of FC F42 with heat-stable enterotoxins (91%). In contrast, the thermolabile enterotoxin (LT-I and LT-II) genes were not detected. Serogroups of F42 positive strains were determined, serogroup O8 being the most prevalent (41,7%). Other serogroups, as there are O9, O11, O18, O32, O35, O98 and O101, were also identified. Thus, FC F42 was confirmed as an additional factor of virulence in the pathogenesis of porcine colibacillosis.

• Escherichia coli F42 piglets fimbriae diarrhea PCR.

Abstract in Portuguese:

Penatti M.P.A., Silva A.S., Valadares G.F. & Leite D.S. 2005. Occurrence of F42 colonization factor in Escherichia coli strains isolated from piglets with diarrhea. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(1):31-33. Depto Microbiologia e Imunologia, Instituto de Biologia, Unicamp, Campinas, SP 13081-970, Brazil. E-mail: domingos@unicamp.br The objective of this study was to determine the presence of the colonization factor F42 in 168 strains of Escherichia coli isolated from diarrheic stools of newborn piglets. The presence of F42 in 12 (7.1%) strains was detected with the agglutination test. Through the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) of F42 positive strains, gene encoding enterotoxins (ST-I, ST-II, LT-I and LT-II) were detected. The finding of ST-I/ST-II genes in 50% of the strains, ST-I (16%) and ST-II (25%) indicates a strong association of FC F42 with heat-stable enterotoxins (91%). In contrast, the thermolabile enterotoxin (LT-I and LT-II) genes were not detected. Serogroups of F42 positive strains were determined, serogroup O8 being the most prevalent (41,7%). Other serogroups, as there are O9, O11, O18, O32, O35, O98 and O101, were also identified. Thus, FC F42 was confirmed as an additional factor of virulence in the pathogenesis of porcine colibacillosis.

Abstract in English:

Seitz A.L., Colodel E.M., Barros S.S. & Driemeier D. 2005. [Experimental poisoning by Sida carpinifolia (Malvaceae) in sheep.] Intoxicação experimental por Sida carpinifolia (Malvaceae) em ovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(1):15-20. Departamento de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: alseitz@terra.com.br. Seven sheep received dry crushed Sida carpinifolia L.f. One of them died at 18 and other at 53 days of the experiment. Four others were euthanatized and necropsied at 30, 45, 75 and 100 days. For one sheep the supply of S. carpinifolia was interrupted on the 80th day of the experiment, and 70 days later the animal was euthanized and necropsied. The minimal amount of the dry plant consumed was 11 g/kg and the maximum was 30 g/kg. The progression of clinical findings was similar in six animals with slight diarrhea at 20 days of experiment. Neurological signs were observed at 25 days and included ataxia with dysmetria, muscle tremors of the head, atypical postural reactions, frequent falls, sluggish of movements, difficulty in grazing and swallowing. These signs were enhanced when the animals were forced to walk. Four of the animals presented progressive emaciation. The sheep whose supply of the plant was interrupted recovered gradually, and 11 days after the animal returned to normal. During necropsy, only enlarged mesenteric lymph nodes were observed. The histological alterations were more significant in the central nervous system, with multiple and severe cytoplasmic distention and vacuolation which affects specially Purkinje cells of the cerebellum, neurons of cerebral cortex, thalamus, midbrain and the ventral horn of spinal cord. Axonal spheroids in the brain, more frequently in the granular layer of cerebellum were also observed. The cytoplasmic vacuolation was also found in pancreatic acinar cells, renal tubules, thyroid follicular epithelium, hepatocytes and macrophages of lymphoid organs. The ultrastructural lesions observed were cytoplasmic vacuolation, some surrounded by membranes in Purkinje cells of cerebellum and thyroid follicular cells. The sheep, which had S. carpinifolia withdrawn from its diet for 70 days, had no significant histological alterations.

• Toxic plants plant poisoning Sida carpinifolia Malvaceae lysosomal storage disease swainsonine electronic microscopy.

Abstract in Portuguese:

Seitz A.L., Colodel E.M., Barros S.S. & Driemeier D. 2005. [Experimental poisoning by Sida carpinifolia (Malvaceae) in sheep.] Intoxicação experimental por Sida carpinifolia (Malvaceae) em ovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(1):15-20. Departamento de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: alseitz@terra.com.br. Seven sheep received dry crushed Sida carpinifolia L.f. One of them died at 18 and other at 53 days of the experiment. Four others were euthanatized and necropsied at 30, 45, 75 and 100 days. For one sheep the supply of S. carpinifolia was interrupted on the 80th day of the experiment, and 70 days later the animal was euthanized and necropsied. The minimal amount of the dry plant consumed was 11 g/kg and the maximum was 30 g/kg. The progression of clinical findings was similar in six animals with slight diarrhea at 20 days of experiment. Neurological signs were observed at 25 days and included ataxia with dysmetria, muscle tremors of the head, atypical postural reactions, frequent falls, sluggish of movements, difficulty in grazing and swallowing. These signs were enhanced when the animals were forced to walk. Four of the animals presented progressive emaciation. The sheep whose supply of the plant was interrupted recovered gradually, and 11 days after the animal returned to normal. During necropsy, only enlarged mesenteric lymph nodes were observed. The histological alterations were more significant in the central nervous system, with multiple and severe cytoplasmic distention and vacuolation which affects specially Purkinje cells of the cerebellum, neurons of cerebral cortex, thalamus, midbrain and the ventral horn of spinal cord. Axonal spheroids in the brain, more frequently in the granular layer of cerebellum were also observed. The cytoplasmic vacuolation was also found in pancreatic acinar cells, renal tubules, thyroid follicular epithelium, hepatocytes and macrophages of lymphoid organs. The ultrastructural lesions observed were cytoplasmic vacuolation, some surrounded by membranes in Purkinje cells of cerebellum and thyroid follicular cells. The sheep, which had S. carpinifolia withdrawn from its diet for 70 days, had no significant histological alterations.

Abstract in English:

França T.N., Peixoto P.V., Brito M.F., Driemeier D., Mores N. & Zanella J. 2005. [Outbreak of Circovirosis (Porcine Postweaning Multisystemic Wasting Syndrome) in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.] Surto de Circovirose (Síndrome Definhante Multissistêmica de Suínos Desmamados) no estado do Rio de Janeiro. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(1):39-53. Universidade Estácio de Sá, Curso de Medicina Veterinária, Disciplina de Anatomia Patológica, Estrada Boca do Mato 850, Vargem Pequena, RJ 22783-320, Brazil. E-mail: ticianaf@uol.com.br The first outbreak of Postweaning Multisystemic Wasting Syndrome (PMWS) in swine, which occurred in southeastern Brazil, in the state of Rio de Janeiro, is described. The disease, which affects mainly weaned about 4 month-old pigs, caused the death of at least 14 animals. The property, where the outbreak occurred, had inadequate sanitary and management conditions. Clinically the disease was characterized by wasting, poor development, cough, tachypnoea, dispnoea, diarrhoea, ataxia, tremors after stimulation, decubitus and convulsions. The course of the disease was acute or subacute. The most important post-mortem findings were enlarged lymphnodes, non-collapsed lungs, with consolidated areas mainly in the cranial lobes. Histological lesions consisted mainly of lymphohistiocytic infiltration with multinucleate giant cells in lymph nodes, spleen, Peyer’s patches, kidney, lung and liver, depletion or lymphoid hyperplasia, as well as lymphohistiocytic interstitial pneumonia and areas of secondary bronchopneumonia. The diagnosis was established through observations of the symptoms and typical lesions, and was confirmed by immunohistochemical examination and PCR. The objective of this study was to characterize the epidemiological, clinical and pathological aspects of the outbreak of PMWS, because of the severe direct or indirect economical losses caused by the disease to the world pig industry.

• Postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome porcine circovirus type 2 pathology immunohistochemistry PCR.

Abstract in Portuguese:

França T.N., Peixoto P.V., Brito M.F., Driemeier D., Mores N. & Zanella J. 2005. [Outbreak of Circovirosis (Porcine Postweaning Multisystemic Wasting Syndrome) in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.] Surto de Circovirose (Síndrome Definhante Multissistêmica de Suínos Desmamados) no estado do Rio de Janeiro. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(1):39-53. Universidade Estácio de Sá, Curso de Medicina Veterinária, Disciplina de Anatomia Patológica, Estrada Boca do Mato 850, Vargem Pequena, RJ 22783-320, Brazil. E-mail: ticianaf@uol.com.br The first outbreak of Postweaning Multisystemic Wasting Syndrome (PMWS) in swine, which occurred in southeastern Brazil, in the state of Rio de Janeiro, is described. The disease, which affects mainly weaned about 4 month-old pigs, caused the death of at least 14 animals. The property, where the outbreak occurred, had inadequate sanitary and management conditions. Clinically the disease was characterized by wasting, poor development, cough, tachypnoea, dispnoea, diarrhoea, ataxia, tremors after stimulation, decubitus and convulsions. The course of the disease was acute or subacute. The most important post-mortem findings were enlarged lymphnodes, non-collapsed lungs, with consolidated areas mainly in the cranial lobes. Histological lesions consisted mainly of lymphohistiocytic infiltration with multinucleate giant cells in lymph nodes, spleen, Peyer’s patches, kidney, lung and liver, depletion or lymphoid hyperplasia, as well as lymphohistiocytic interstitial pneumonia and areas of secondary bronchopneumonia. The diagnosis was established through observations of the symptoms and typical lesions, and was confirmed by immunohistochemical examination and PCR. The objective of this study was to characterize the epidemiological, clinical and pathological aspects of the outbreak of PMWS, because of the severe direct or indirect economical losses caused by the disease to the world pig industry.

Abstract in English:

D'Ávila da Silva A., Sortica V.A., Braga A.C., Spilki F.R., Franco A.C., Esteves P.A., Rijsewijk F., Rosa J.C.A., Batista H.B.C.R., Oliveira A.P. & Roehe P.M. 2005. [Antigenic and molecular characterization of eight samples of Aujeszky’s disease virus isolated in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, in 2003.] Caracterização antigênica e molecular de oito amostras do virus da doença de Aujeszky isoladas no estado do Rio Grande do Sul em 2003. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(1):21-24. Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor (IPVDF), Fepagro Saúde Animal, Estrada do Conde 6000, Cx. Postal 47, Eldorado do Sul, RS 92990-000, Brazil. E-mail: proehe@ufrgs.br Pseudorabies or Aujeszky’s disease (AD), caused by pseudorabies virus (PRV) is a major concern in swine production. In the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, AD was only detected in 1954, in cattle. In 2003 two outbreaks of encephalitis occurred on the northern region of the state, close to the border with the state of Santa Catarina. Pseudorabies virus (PRV) was isolated from distinct farms within the region and subjected to antigenic and genomic analyses. These isolates were compared with prototype strains NIA-3 and NP. Antigenic characterization with a panel of monoclonal antibodies (Mabs) directed to viral glycoproteins (gB, gC, gD and gE,) was performed by an imunoperoxidase monolayer assay (IPMA) on infected cell monolayers. Genomic characterization was carried out by restriction enzyme analysis (REA) of the whole DNA viral genome with Bam HI. The antigenic profile of the eight isolates from Rio Grande do Sul as well as strains NIA-3 and NP were similar. REA analysis revealed that all isolates from Rio Grande do Sul displayed a genomic type II arrangement, a genotype often found in other outbreaks of AD previously reported in other Brazilian states. The results obtained suggest that the eight isolates examined here were similar.

• Aujeszky's disease epidemiology.

Abstract in Portuguese:

D'Ávila da Silva A., Sortica V.A., Braga A.C., Spilki F.R., Franco A.C., Esteves P.A., Rijsewijk F., Rosa J.C.A., Batista H.B.C.R., Oliveira A.P. & Roehe P.M. 2005. [Antigenic and molecular characterization of eight samples of Aujeszky’s disease virus isolated in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, in 2003.] Caracterização antigênica e molecular de oito amostras do virus da doença de Aujeszky isoladas no estado do Rio Grande do Sul em 2003. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(1):21-24. Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor (IPVDF), Fepagro Saúde Animal, Estrada do Conde 6000, Cx. Postal 47, Eldorado do Sul, RS 92990-000, Brazil. E-mail: proehe@ufrgs.br Pseudorabies or Aujeszky’s disease (AD), caused by pseudorabies virus (PRV) is a major concern in swine production. In the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, AD was only detected in 1954, in cattle. In 2003 two outbreaks of encephalitis occurred on the northern region of the state, close to the border with the state of Santa Catarina. Pseudorabies virus (PRV) was isolated from distinct farms within the region and subjected to antigenic and genomic analyses. These isolates were compared with prototype strains NIA-3 and NP. Antigenic characterization with a panel of monoclonal antibodies (Mabs) directed to viral glycoproteins (gB, gC, gD and gE,) was performed by an imunoperoxidase monolayer assay (IPMA) on infected cell monolayers. Genomic characterization was carried out by restriction enzyme analysis (REA) of the whole DNA viral genome with Bam HI. The antigenic profile of the eight isolates from Rio Grande do Sul as well as strains NIA-3 and NP were similar. REA analysis revealed that all isolates from Rio Grande do Sul displayed a genomic type II arrangement, a genotype often found in other outbreaks of AD previously reported in other Brazilian states. The results obtained suggest that the eight isolates examined here were similar.

Abstract in English:

Groff F.H.S., Merlo M.A., Stoll P.A., Stepan A.L., Weiblen R. & Flores E.F. 2005. [Epidemiology and control of pseudorabies outbreaks in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, 2003.] Epidemiologia e controle dos focos da doença de Aujeszky no Rio Grande do Sul, em 2003. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(1):25-30. Depto Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universi-dade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM), Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil. E-mail: flores@ccr.ufsm.br Aujeszky’s disease (AD) or pseudorabies is an important viral disease of swine and has significant economic impact on the pig industry worldwide. The infection produces direct and indirect economic losses, mainly due to restrictions to international trade of swine products. Since the beginning of the 20th century, AD had been notified in several Brazilian regions, yet the state of Rio Grande do Sul (RS) remained as a “provisionally free” area under the International Organization of Epizooties (OIE) guidelines. In 2003, two outbreaks were notified in swine herds located in northern RS, boundary with Santa Catarina, a state where the infection is endemic. Control/eradication measures consisted in tracing back all swine movements, quarantine and eradication of the affected herds by sanitary slaughter under official inspection. In outbreak # 1 (Pinheirinho do Vale, January/2003) six herds were affected, one of which presented animals with clinical signs. Starting from this outbreak, 146 herds and 42.399 pigs were traced back, six herds (7.822 animals) being depopulated – the herd where the index outbreak plus five other herds with positive serology. The outbreak # 2 (Aratiba, September/2003) resulted in a wider spread of the infection, involving another three counties and 77 herds (9 with clinical signs, 68 with positive serology). From the index case, 109.316 pigs in 630 herds were traced back; 28.443 animals from positive herds were slaughtered. Total numbers reached 151.715 traced back animals in 776 herds; 71 herds were found serologically positive. The adopted measures were efficient to eliminate the outbreaks and to stop the disease spread to neighboring areas, reestablishing the sanitary status previous to the outbreaks.

• Aujeszky’s disease pseudorabies ADV PRV epidemiology.

Abstract in Portuguese:

Groff F.H.S., Merlo M.A., Stoll P.A., Stepan A.L., Weiblen R. & Flores E.F. 2005. [Epidemiology and control of pseudorabies outbreaks in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, 2003.] Epidemiologia e controle dos focos da doença de Aujeszky no Rio Grande do Sul, em 2003. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(1):25-30. Depto Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universi-dade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM), Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil. E-mail: flores@ccr.ufsm.br Aujeszky’s disease (AD) or pseudorabies is an important viral disease of swine and has significant economic impact on the pig industry worldwide. The infection produces direct and indirect economic losses, mainly due to restrictions to international trade of swine products. Since the beginning of the 20th century, AD had been notified in several Brazilian regions, yet the state of Rio Grande do Sul (RS) remained as a “provisionally free” area under the International Organization of Epizooties (OIE) guidelines. In 2003, two outbreaks were notified in swine herds located in northern RS, boundary with Santa Catarina, a state where the infection is endemic. Control/eradication measures consisted in tracing back all swine movements, quarantine and eradication of the affected herds by sanitary slaughter under official inspection. In outbreak # 1 (Pinheirinho do Vale, January/2003) six herds were affected, one of which presented animals with clinical signs. Starting from this outbreak, 146 herds and 42.399 pigs were traced back, six herds (7.822 animals) being depopulated – the herd where the index outbreak plus five other herds with positive serology. The outbreak # 2 (Aratiba, September/2003) resulted in a wider spread of the infection, involving another three counties and 77 herds (9 with clinical signs, 68 with positive serology). From the index case, 109.316 pigs in 630 herds were traced back; 28.443 animals from positive herds were slaughtered. Total numbers reached 151.715 traced back animals in 776 herds; 71 herds were found serologically positive. The adopted measures were efficient to eliminate the outbreaks and to stop the disease spread to neighboring areas, reestablishing the sanitary status previous to the outbreaks.