PESQUISA VETERINÁRIA BRASILEIRA

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Souza T.M., Fighera R.A., Kommers G.D. & Barros C.S.L. 2009. [Histological aspects of canine and feline skin as a tool for dermatopathology.] Aspectos histológicos da pele de cães e gatos como ferramenta para dermatopatologia. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(2):177-190. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: teitsouza@yahoo.com.br Skin morphology differs among different animal species and most part of our knowledge on the morphology of human skin can not be applied for dogs and cats. Thus, the understanding of the basic morphologic aspects of the skin from different species is an invaluable tool for every professional in the field of veterinary pathology. Furthermore, the ability to recognize the main similarities and main differences in the skin morphology from different anatomical signs within the same animal is fundamental to the practice dermatopathology. This paper reviews the major aspects of the microscopic anatomy of the skin in dogs and cats, aiming to help those veterinary pathologists that are starting in the field of dermatopathology, since only with the knowledge of the peculiarities of this organ it will be possible to apply the diagnostic approach through lesion patterns.

• Morphology histology pathology dermatopathology skin dogs and cats

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Souza T.M., Fighera R.A., Kommers G.D. & Barros C.S.L. 2009. [Histological aspects of canine and feline skin as a tool for dermatopathology.] Aspectos histológicos da pele de cães e gatos como ferramenta para dermatopatologia. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(2):177-190. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: teitsouza@yahoo.com.br Skin morphology differs among different animal species and most part of our knowledge on the morphology of human skin can not be applied for dogs and cats. Thus, the understanding of the basic morphologic aspects of the skin from different species is an invaluable tool for every professional in the field of veterinary pathology. Furthermore, the ability to recognize the main similarities and main differences in the skin morphology from different anatomical signs within the same animal is fundamental to the practice dermatopathology. This paper reviews the major aspects of the microscopic anatomy of the skin in dogs and cats, aiming to help those veterinary pathologists that are starting in the field of dermatopathology, since only with the knowledge of the peculiarities of this organ it will be possible to apply the diagnostic approach through lesion patterns.

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.- Ståhl K., Benito A., Felmer R., Zuñiga J., Reinhardt G., Rivera H., Baule C. & Moreno-López J. 2009. Genetic diversity of bovine viral diarrhoea virus (BVDV) from Peru and Chile. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(1):41-44. Joint Virology Research and Development Division, National Veterinary Institute and Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences Uppsala, Sweden. E-mail: Karl.Stahl@bvf.slu.se Twenty-five BVDV strains, detected in serum from persistently infected cattle from Peru (n=15) and Chile (n=10) were genetically characterized. The phylogenetic analysis based on the 5’ UTR showed that all 25 strains belonged to genotype 1. Twenty-three of the strains could further be subdivided into subtype 1b, and two out of ten Chilean strains into subtype 1a. In conclusion, in total 23 out of 25 strains analyzed were of genotype 1, subtype 1b. This is the predominant BVDV subtype in many countries all over the world, including USA. The close homology with previously described strains reflects the influence of livestock trade on the diversity of BVDV circulating within and between countries and continents. Peru and Chile have imported large numbers of cattle from USA and Europe, mostly with insufficient or lacking health documentation.

• Bovine viral diarrhoea virus BVDV diversity pestivirus phylogenetic analysis

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Ståhl K., Benito A., Felmer R., Zuñiga J., Reinhardt G., Rivera H., Baule C. & Moreno-López J. 2009. Genetic diversity of bovine viral diarrhoea virus (BVDV) from Peru and Chile. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(1):41-44. Joint Virology Research and Development Division, National Veterinary Institute and Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences Uppsala, Sweden. E-mail: Karl.Stahl@bvf.slu.se Twenty-five BVDV strains, detected in serum from persistently infected cattle from Peru (n=15) and Chile (n=10) were genetically characterized. The phylogenetic analysis based on the 5’ UTR showed that all 25 strains belonged to genotype 1. Twenty-three of the strains could further be subdivided into subtype 1b, and two out of ten Chilean strains into subtype 1a. In conclusion, in total 23 out of 25 strains analyzed were of genotype 1, subtype 1b. This is the predominant BVDV subtype in many countries all over the world, including USA. The close homology with previously described strains reflects the influence of livestock trade on the diversity of BVDV circulating within and between countries and continents. Peru and Chile have imported large numbers of cattle from USA and Europe, mostly with insufficient or lacking health documentation.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Ribeiro M.G., Geraldo J.S., Langoni H., Lara G.H.B., Siqueira A.K., Salerno T. & Fernandes M.C. 2008. [Pathogenic microorganisms, somatic cell count and drug residues evaluation in organic bovine milk.] Microrganismos patogênicos, celularidade e resíduos de antimicrobianos no leite produzido no sistema orgânico. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(1):52-58. Disciplina de Enfermidades Infecciosas dos Animais, Departamento de Higiene Veterinária e Saúde Pública, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, SP 18618-000, Brazil. E-mail: mgribeiro@fmvz.unesp.br In last years increase the importance of milk quality and conditions of bovine milking. Simultaneously, increase the interest about organic milk and derivates. The aim of present study was investigate the milk pathogens, sensitivity and multiple drug resistance of isolates, somatic cell count and residues of drugs in milk, from cattle with and without mastitis, come from four little organic dairy farms in State of São Paulo, Brazil. Were used 148 cattle on the middle period of lactation. From these, two showed clinical mastitis, 72 subclinical mastitis and 74 without signs of mammary inflammation (control). Staphylococcus aureus (25.7%), Streptococcus spp. (21.4%), Corynebacterium bovis (12.9%), Streptococcus agalactiae (4.3%) and Staphylococcus spp (4,3%) were the more-frequent microorganisms isolated from animals with mastitis. Aspergillus spp. was isolated from one animal. Ceftiofur (95.2%), oxacillin (84.2%), gentamicin (76.3%) and cefoperazone (70.3%) were the more effective drugs. High resistance of isolates were found to penicillin (53.5%), ampicillin (41.6%) and neomycin (38.6%). Multiple drug resistance to three or more drug was observed in 40 (39.6%) isolates. Media of somatic cell count encountered in animals with mastitis and controls were 175,742.67cs/mL and 58,227.6 cs/mL, respectively. Antimicrobials residues in milk were detected in four (2.7%) animals. The present findings showed the low somatic cell count of animals, indicative of good quality of milk. However, pointed the need of control measures for contagious pathogens of bovine mastitis and more attention for prohibition of antimicrobial use in organic dairy farms.

• Organic milk mastitis bovine somatic cell count antimicrobials multiresistance

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Ribeiro M.G., Geraldo J.S., Langoni H., Lara G.H.B., Siqueira A.K., Salerno T. & Fernandes M.C. 2008. [Pathogenic microorganisms, somatic cell count and drug residues evaluation in organic bovine milk.] Microrganismos patogênicos, celularidade e resíduos de antimicrobianos no leite produzido no sistema orgânico. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(1):52-58. Disciplina de Enfermidades Infecciosas dos Animais, Departamento de Higiene Veterinária e Saúde Pública, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, SP 18618-000, Brazil. E-mail: mgribeiro@fmvz.unesp.br In last years increase the importance of milk quality and conditions of bovine milking. Simultaneously, increase the interest about organic milk and derivates. The aim of present study was investigate the milk pathogens, sensitivity and multiple drug resistance of isolates, somatic cell count and residues of drugs in milk, from cattle with and without mastitis, come from four little organic dairy farms in State of São Paulo, Brazil. Were used 148 cattle on the middle period of lactation. From these, two showed clinical mastitis, 72 subclinical mastitis and 74 without signs of mammary inflammation (control). Staphylococcus aureus (25.7%), Streptococcus spp. (21.4%), Corynebacterium bovis (12.9%), Streptococcus agalactiae (4.3%) and Staphylococcus spp (4,3%) were the more-frequent microorganisms isolated from animals with mastitis. Aspergillus spp. was isolated from one animal. Ceftiofur (95.2%), oxacillin (84.2%), gentamicin (76.3%) and cefoperazone (70.3%) were the more effective drugs. High resistance of isolates were found to penicillin (53.5%), ampicillin (41.6%) and neomycin (38.6%). Multiple drug resistance to three or more drug was observed in 40 (39.6%) isolates. Media of somatic cell count encountered in animals with mastitis and controls were 175,742.67cs/mL and 58,227.6 cs/mL, respectively. Antimicrobials residues in milk were detected in four (2.7%) animals. The present findings showed the low somatic cell count of animals, indicative of good quality of milk. However, pointed the need of control measures for contagious pathogens of bovine mastitis and more attention for prohibition of antimicrobial use in organic dairy farms.

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.- Medeiros E.S., Santos M.V., Pinheiro Jr J.W., Faria E.B., Wanderley G.G., Teles J.A.A. & Mota R.A. 2009. [In vitro evaluation of the efficacy of commercial disinfectants used in pre and post-dipping against Staphylococcus spp. isolated from bovine mastitis.] Avaliação in vitro da eficácia de desinfetantes comerciais utilizados no pré e pós-dipping frente amostras de Staphylococcus spp. isoladas de mastite bovina. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(1):71-75. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, Rua Dom Manoel de Medeiros s/n, Dois Irmãos, Recife, PE 52171-900, Brazil. E-mail: rinaldo.mota@hotmail.com The objective of this investigation was to evaluate the in vitro sensibility of Staphylococcus spp. to several commercially available disinfectants used for pre and post dipping. A total of 60 isolates of Staphylococcus spp., identified as Staphylococcus aureus (50) and Positive coagulase Staphylococcus (10) were obtained from the mammary glands of dairy cows with subclinical mastitis in the regions of Metropolitan Recife, the Agreste and the Zona da Mata of the State of Pernambuco, Brazil. As active ingredients were used a chlorine base (25%), iodine (0.6%), chlorhexidine (2.0%), quaternary ammonium (4.0%), and lactic acid (2.0%) at four specific intervals (15", 30", 60", and 300"). One hundred percent of S. aureus was found to be sensitive to iodine, 93.3% to chlorhexidine, 80% to ammonia, 35.6% to lactic acid, and 97.8% were resistant to chlorine at a 60-minute interval. With respect to the Positive coagulase Staphylococcus (SCP), 100.0% of the isolates were sensitive to iodine, 81.8% to quaternary ammonium, 99.9% to lactic acid, 72.7% to chlorhexidine, and 100% was resistant to chlorine at an interval of 60 minutes. It can be concluded that the highest disinfectant activity in vitro was found to be with iodine and chlorhexidine for S. aureus, and with iodine and lactic acid for SCP. A further conclusion was that it is important to undertake a periodic evaluation of the disinfectants used on the dairy properties in the regions studied, given the variety of sensibilities and resistance to disinfectants used, which may prejudice the control of bovine mastitis caused by Staphylococcus spp.

• Disinfectants mastitis Staphylococcus spp. dairy cows

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Medeiros E.S., Santos M.V., Pinheiro Jr J.W., Faria E.B., Wanderley G.G., Teles J.A.A. & Mota R.A. 2009. [In vitro evaluation of the efficacy of commercial disinfectants used in pre and post-dipping against Staphylococcus spp. isolated from bovine mastitis.] Avaliação in vitro da eficácia de desinfetantes comerciais utilizados no pré e pós-dipping frente amostras de Staphylococcus spp. isoladas de mastite bovina. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(1):71-75. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, Rua Dom Manoel de Medeiros s/n, Dois Irmãos, Recife, PE 52171-900, Brazil. E-mail: rinaldo.mota@hotmail.com The objective of this investigation was to evaluate the in vitro sensibility of Staphylococcus spp. to several commercially available disinfectants used for pre and post dipping. A total of 60 isolates of Staphylococcus spp., identified as Staphylococcus aureus (50) and Positive coagulase Staphylococcus (10) were obtained from the mammary glands of dairy cows with subclinical mastitis in the regions of Metropolitan Recife, the Agreste and the Zona da Mata of the State of Pernambuco, Brazil. As active ingredients were used a chlorine base (25%), iodine (0.6%), chlorhexidine (2.0%), quaternary ammonium (4.0%), and lactic acid (2.0%) at four specific intervals (15", 30", 60", and 300"). One hundred percent of S. aureus was found to be sensitive to iodine, 93.3% to chlorhexidine, 80% to ammonia, 35.6% to lactic acid, and 97.8% were resistant to chlorine at a 60-minute interval. With respect to the Positive coagulase Staphylococcus (SCP), 100.0% of the isolates were sensitive to iodine, 81.8% to quaternary ammonium, 99.9% to lactic acid, 72.7% to chlorhexidine, and 100% was resistant to chlorine at an interval of 60 minutes. It can be concluded that the highest disinfectant activity in vitro was found to be with iodine and chlorhexidine for S. aureus, and with iodine and lactic acid for SCP. A further conclusion was that it is important to undertake a periodic evaluation of the disinfectants used on the dairy properties in the regions studied, given the variety of sensibilities and resistance to disinfectants used, which may prejudice the control of bovine mastitis caused by Staphylococcus spp.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Bezerra F.S.B., Garcia H.A., Alves H.M., Oliveira I.R.S., Silva A.E., Teixeira M.M.G. & Batista J.S. 2008. [Trypanosoma vivax in testicular and epidydimal tissues of experimentally infected sheep.] Trypanosoma vivax nos tecidos testicular e epididimário de ovinos experimentalmente infectados. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(12):575-582. Laboratório de Patologia Veterinária, Departamento de Ciências Animais, Universidade Federal Rural do Semi-árido, BR 110 Km 47, Cx. Postal 147, Mossoró, RN 59625-900, Brazil. E-mail: jaelsbatista@hotmail.com Four adult sheep (number 1, 2, 3 and 4), all males, were inoculated intravenously with 1ml of blood containing 1.25x105 trypomastigotes of Trypanosoma vivax, and Sheep 5, 6, 7 and 8 were used as control. After infection, clinical exams considering rectal temperature, respiratory and cardiac frequencies, and parasitaemia were recorded daily for a 30-day experiment period. Blood samples were obtained for 5-day intervals to hematocrit analysis. At the end of the experimental period, the sheep were orquiectomized. Testes and epididymides from these animals were studied anatomopathologically. Samples from these tissues of Sheep 1, 4 and 5 were taken to polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Clinical parameters remained for the infected group above the values observed in the control group during the experimental period. Parasitaemia was observed on day 3 post-infection, and the highest values occurred between day 6 and 10, and day 15 and 18 post-infection. Sheep 1 and 4 showed severe anemia on day 25 post-infection. All sheep of the infected group showed flabby and palid testes. Histologically, moderate to severe testicular degeneration, multifocal epididymitis and hyperplasia of epididymal epithelium were observed. The result of T. vivax PCR analysis in the testes and epididymal tissues was positive in 100% of the samples of the experimentally infected sheep. Epididymal and testicular lesions associated with the presence of the parasite in these tissues, shown by PCR, suggest the participation of T. vivax in the pathophysiological mechanism of reproductive damage.

• rypanosomosis small ruminant PCR anatomopathology testicular degene-ration epididymitis extravascular foci

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Bezerra F.S.B., Garcia H.A., Alves H.M., Oliveira I.R.S., Silva A.E., Teixeira M.M.G. & Batista J.S. 2008. [Trypanosoma vivax in testicular and epidydimal tissues of experimentally infected sheep.] Trypanosoma vivax nos tecidos testicular e epididimário de ovinos experimentalmente infectados. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(12):575-582. Laboratório de Patologia Veterinária, Departamento de Ciências Animais, Universidade Federal Rural do Semi-árido, BR 110 Km 47, Cx. Postal 147, Mossoró, RN 59625-900, Brazil. E-mail: jaelsbatista@hotmail.com Four adult sheep (number 1, 2, 3 and 4), all males, were inoculated intravenously with 1ml of blood containing 1.25x105 trypomastigotes of Trypanosoma vivax, and Sheep 5, 6, 7 and 8 were used as control. After infection, clinical exams considering rectal temperature, respiratory and cardiac frequencies, and parasitaemia were recorded daily for a 30-day experiment period. Blood samples were obtained for 5-day intervals to hematocrit analysis. At the end of the experimental period, the sheep were orquiectomized. Testes and epididymides from these animals were studied anatomopathologically. Samples from these tissues of Sheep 1, 4 and 5 were taken to polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Clinical parameters remained for the infected group above the values observed in the control group during the experimental period. Parasitaemia was observed on day 3 post-infection, and the highest values occurred between day 6 and 10, and day 15 and 18 post-infection. Sheep 1 and 4 showed severe anemia on day 25 post-infection. All sheep of the infected group showed flabby and palid testes. Histologically, moderate to severe testicular degeneration, multifocal epididymitis and hyperplasia of epididymal epithelium were observed. The result of T. vivax PCR analysis in the testes and epididymal tissues was positive in 100% of the samples of the experimentally infected sheep. Epididymal and testicular lesions associated with the presence of the parasite in these tissues, shown by PCR, suggest the participation of T. vivax in the pathophysiological mechanism of reproductive damage.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Diéguez F.J., Yus E., Sanjuán M.L., Vilar M.J. & Arnaiz I. 2008. Monitoring bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) infection status in dairy herds. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(12):588-592. Unidad de Epidemiología y Sanidad Animal, Instituto de Investigación y Análisis Alimentarios, Facultad de Veterinaria s/n, Lugo 27002, Spain. E-mail: franciscojavier.dieguez@usc.es This study was designed to assess the relationship between antibodies against bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) determined in the bulk tank milk (BTM) and the within-herd seroprevalence. We also assessed the efficiency of measuring antibody levels in BTM samples to monitor BVDV infection status in a herd. In the 81 farms included in the study, BTM samples were obtained and blood samples withdrawn from all cattle older than one year. The infection status was then determined in serum and milk using a commercial blocking ELISA based on the detection of anti-p80 antibodies. Apart from these baseline serum and milk samples, another BTM sample was collected from each herd 9 months later, and a third BTM sample obtained 9 months after this. In these second and third milk samples, anti-BVDV antibodies were determined using the same ELISA kit. Statistical tests revealed good agreement between herd seroprevalences (% seropositive animals in the herd) and the antibody levels detected in the BTM samples. During the 18 months of follow-up, the farms with persistently infected cattle at the study outset (14.8% of the herds) showed a significant decrease in BTM antibody titers after virus clearance. Conversely, a significant increase in BTM antibody levels was observed in the herds infected with BVDV during the follow-up period. Our findings indicate that monitoring antibody levels in the BTM is a useful method of identifying changes in the BVDV infection status of a herd.

• Bovine viral diarrhea vírus BVDV antibodies diagnostic milk

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Diéguez F.J., Yus E., Sanjuán M.L., Vilar M.J. & Arnaiz I. 2008. Monitoring bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) infection status in dairy herds. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(12):588-592. Unidad de Epidemiología y Sanidad Animal, Instituto de Investigación y Análisis Alimentarios, Facultad de Veterinaria s/n, Lugo 27002, Spain. E-mail: franciscojavier.dieguez@usc.es This study was designed to assess the relationship between antibodies against bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) determined in the bulk tank milk (BTM) and the within-herd seroprevalence. We also assessed the efficiency of measuring antibody levels in BTM samples to monitor BVDV infection status in a herd. In the 81 farms included in the study, BTM samples were obtained and blood samples withdrawn from all cattle older than one year. The infection status was then determined in serum and milk using a commercial blocking ELISA based on the detection of anti-p80 antibodies. Apart from these baseline serum and milk samples, another BTM sample was collected from each herd 9 months later, and a third BTM sample obtained 9 months after this. In these second and third milk samples, anti-BVDV antibodies were determined using the same ELISA kit. Statistical tests revealed good agreement between herd seroprevalences (% seropositive animals in the herd) and the antibody levels detected in the BTM samples. During the 18 months of follow-up, the farms with persistently infected cattle at the study outset (14.8% of the herds) showed a significant decrease in BTM antibody titers after virus clearance. Conversely, a significant increase in BTM antibody levels was observed in the herds infected with BVDV during the follow-up period. Our findings indicate that monitoring antibody levels in the BTM is a useful method of identifying changes in the BVDV infection status of a herd.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Bonel-Raposo J., Riet-Correa F., Guim T.N., Schuch I.D., Grecco F.G. & Fernandes C.G. 2007. [Acute poisoning and abortions in guinea pigs by the pods of Enterolobium contortisiliquum (Leg. Mimosoideae).] Intoxicação aguda e abortos em cobaias pelas favas de Enterolobium contortisiliquum (Leg. Mimosoideae). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(12):593-596. Departamento de Patologia Animal, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Campus Universitário s/n, Pelotas, RS 96010-900, Brazil. E-mail: bonel-raposo@brturbo.com.br The objective was to study the acute toxicity and the abortive properties of Enterolobium contortisiliquum pods in guinea pigs. Pods of E. contortisiliquum were administered orally to 4 groups of 3 guinea pigs each. Another group of 3 guinea-pigs was used as control. Group 1 and 2 were fed with one dose of 5 and 10g of pods for kg body weight, respectively. The guinea pigs of Group 3 and 4 received 10 and 15g/kg, respectively, divided into daily doses of 5g/kg. One guinea pig from Group 2 and one from Group 4 died 12 and 18 hours after the end of the administration. Gross lesions were hemorrhages of the stomach and of the large and small gut, enlarged liver, and dilated gall bladder. Histologically, the liver had severe vacuolation and necrosis of periportal hepatocytes. In another experiment a ration containing 4% of pods of E. contortisiliquum was fed to 2 groups of 4 guinea-pigs, 35 days after mating. Four of the 8 guinea pigs aborted 6-15 days after the beginning of ingestion. The other 4 guinea pigs were not pregnant. All guinea pigs were euthanized after abortion or at the end of the experiment. Histologically all animals had mild to severe periportal hemorrhagic necrosis. All fetuses had variable degree of autolysis. In 4 fetuses studied no significant histologic lesions were observed. The acute lesions observed in guinea-pigs are similar than those observed in the spontaneous poisoning by Enterolobium spp. in cattle. Similar lesions are observed in guinea-pigs poisoned experimentally with saponins from E. gummiferum. The results of the experiments in pregnant guinea pigs suggest that E. contortisiliquum can be used to study the abortive effect of its pods or its toxic compounds.

• Poisonous plants hepatotoxic plants abortion Enterolobium contortisiliquum Legumiosae Mimosoideae guinea pigs

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Bonel-Raposo J., Riet-Correa F., Guim T.N., Schuch I.D., Grecco F.G. & Fernandes C.G. 2007. [Acute poisoning and abortions in guinea pigs by the pods of Enterolobium contortisiliquum (Leg. Mimosoideae).] Intoxicação aguda e abortos em cobaias pelas favas de Enterolobium contortisiliquum (Leg. Mimosoideae). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(12):593-596. Departamento de Patologia Animal, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Campus Universitário s/n, Pelotas, RS 96010-900, Brazil. E-mail: bonel-raposo@brturbo.com.br The objective was to study the acute toxicity and the abortive properties of Enterolobium contortisiliquum pods in guinea pigs. Pods of E. contortisiliquum were administered orally to 4 groups of 3 guinea pigs each. Another group of 3 guinea-pigs was used as control. Group 1 and 2 were fed with one dose of 5 and 10g of pods for kg body weight, respectively. The guinea pigs of Group 3 and 4 received 10 and 15g/kg, respectively, divided into daily doses of 5g/kg. One guinea pig from Group 2 and one from Group 4 died 12 and 18 hours after the end of the administration. Gross lesions were hemorrhages of the stomach and of the large and small gut, enlarged liver, and dilated gall bladder. Histologically, the liver had severe vacuolation and necrosis of periportal hepatocytes. In another experiment a ration containing 4% of pods of E. contortisiliquum was fed to 2 groups of 4 guinea-pigs, 35 days after mating. Four of the 8 guinea pigs aborted 6-15 days after the beginning of ingestion. The other 4 guinea pigs were not pregnant. All guinea pigs were euthanized after abortion or at the end of the experiment. Histologically all animals had mild to severe periportal hemorrhagic necrosis. All fetuses had variable degree of autolysis. In 4 fetuses studied no significant histologic lesions were observed. The acute lesions observed in guinea-pigs are similar than those observed in the spontaneous poisoning by Enterolobium spp. in cattle. Similar lesions are observed in guinea-pigs poisoned experimentally with saponins from E. gummiferum. The results of the experiments in pregnant guinea pigs suggest that E. contortisiliquum can be used to study the abortive effect of its pods or its toxic compounds.