PESQUISA VETERINÁRIA BRASILEIRA

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Millar P.R., Daguer H., Vicente R.T., Costa T., Sobreiro L.G. & Amendoeira M.R.R. 2008. [Toxoplasma gondii: epidemiological study of pigs from southwestern Paraná, Brazil.] Toxoplasma gondii: estudo soro-epidemiológico de suínos da região Sudoeste do Estado do Paraná. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(1):15-18. Programa de Pós-Graduação em Higiene Veterinária e Processamento Tecnológico de Produtos de Origem Animal, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Rua Vital Brazil Filho 64, Santa Rosa, Niterói, RJ 24230-360, Brazil. E-mail: patriciariddell@vm.uff.br This study evaluated the seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis in pigs bred and slaughtered for human consumption. The frequency of the antibody anti-Toxoplasma gondii was investigated in 408 animals from distinct piggeries of 25 cities in the southwestern region of the state of Paraná, Brazil. Serum samples were examined for IgG antibodies specific for T. gondii through the indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT). A frequency of 25.5% of serum samples tested positive for dilutions equal to or greater than 1:64. Statistically significant were not observed in relation to sex and age of the animals. The highest antibody level observed was 4,096 (3.0%) and the most frequent was 64 (74%), suggesting that a chronic infection occurred in the population. The high prevalence of the infection found in the swine herds of this region suggests that these herds can be a source of infection for individuals who typically consume this type of raw or badly cooked meat.

• Toxoplasma gondii pigs seroprevalence

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Millar P.R., Daguer H., Vicente R.T., Costa T., Sobreiro L.G. & Amendoeira M.R.R. 2008. [Toxoplasma gondii: epidemiological study of pigs from southwestern Paraná, Brazil.] Toxoplasma gondii: estudo soro-epidemiológico de suínos da região Sudoeste do Estado do Paraná. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(1):15-18. Programa de Pós-Graduação em Higiene Veterinária e Processamento Tecnológico de Produtos de Origem Animal, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Rua Vital Brazil Filho 64, Santa Rosa, Niterói, RJ 24230-360, Brazil. E-mail: patriciariddell@vm.uff.br This study evaluated the seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis in pigs bred and slaughtered for human consumption. The frequency of the antibody anti-Toxoplasma gondii was investigated in 408 animals from distinct piggeries of 25 cities in the southwestern region of the state of Paraná, Brazil. Serum samples were examined for IgG antibodies specific for T. gondii through the indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT). A frequency of 25.5% of serum samples tested positive for dilutions equal to or greater than 1:64. Statistically significant were not observed in relation to sex and age of the animals. The highest antibody level observed was 4,096 (3.0%) and the most frequent was 64 (74%), suggesting that a chronic infection occurred in the population. The high prevalence of the infection found in the swine herds of this region suggests that these herds can be a source of infection for individuals who typically consume this type of raw or badly cooked meat.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Eigenheer-Moreira J.F., Fernandes F.T., Queiroz F.J.R, Pinho T.G.& Ferreira A.M.R. 2007. [Comparative study of repeat breeds and healthy mares through endometrial histology and plasmatic progesterone concentrations.] Estudo comparativo de éguas repetidoras ou não de cio através da avaliação histológica do endométrio e das concentrações plasmáticas de progesterona. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(12):506-512. Curso de Pós-Graduação em Clínica e Reprodução Animal, Rua Vital Brazil Filho 64, Niterói, RJ 24230-340, Brazil. E-mail: joana.vet@gmail.com.br The study aimed to compare endometrial histology and plasmatic progesterone (P4) concentration of repeat breeds and healthy mares. The hypothesis was that there is a correlation between infertility and endometrial histology and P4 concentration in both groups. A total of 36 Campolina and Mangalarga Marchador mares in reproductive age (3-23 years) were used, 11 of them were healthy mares (Control group, 7 embryo recipient and 4 embryo donors), and 25 repeat breeders (10 embryo recipient and 15 embryo donors), classified as based on their reproductive history. Endometrial and blood samples were collected for respectively histological and plasma progesterone concentration evaluation. The endometrial samples obtained after biopsy were fixed in Bouin’s fluid, processed, included in paraffin, and stained with Hematoxylin-Eosin (HE) for histopathological examination. Plasmatic progesterone concentrations were evaluated by enzyme immunoessay (ELISA). There was no correlation between progesterone concentration and fertility. But there was a positive correlation between age and fertility, as older mares had major tendency of subfertility than younger ones. There was also a correlation between biopsy categories and fertility, as more histological alterations were found, higher were the chances for the mares to be subfertile. However not all mares classified as Category I and II maintained pregnancy until parturition. Other factors could influence pregnancy maintenance. In the same way, not all mares in Category III were infertile. The endometrial biopsy was shown to be an easy and cheap diagnostic technique with minimal discomfort to the animals and, together with other data, to be a very important component in the investigation of mare fertility.

• Mare subfertility endometrial biopsy histopathology progesterone

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Eigenheer-Moreira J.F., Fernandes F.T., Queiroz F.J.R, Pinho T.G.& Ferreira A.M.R. 2007. [Comparative study of repeat breeds and healthy mares through endometrial histology and plasmatic progesterone concentrations.] Estudo comparativo de éguas repetidoras ou não de cio através da avaliação histológica do endométrio e das concentrações plasmáticas de progesterona. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(12):506-512. Curso de Pós-Graduação em Clínica e Reprodução Animal, Rua Vital Brazil Filho 64, Niterói, RJ 24230-340, Brazil. E-mail: joana.vet@gmail.com.br The study aimed to compare endometrial histology and plasmatic progesterone (P4) concentration of repeat breeds and healthy mares. The hypothesis was that there is a correlation between infertility and endometrial histology and P4 concentration in both groups. A total of 36 Campolina and Mangalarga Marchador mares in reproductive age (3-23 years) were used, 11 of them were healthy mares (Control group, 7 embryo recipient and 4 embryo donors), and 25 repeat breeders (10 embryo recipient and 15 embryo donors), classified as based on their reproductive history. Endometrial and blood samples were collected for respectively histological and plasma progesterone concentration evaluation. The endometrial samples obtained after biopsy were fixed in Bouin’s fluid, processed, included in paraffin, and stained with Hematoxylin-Eosin (HE) for histopathological examination. Plasmatic progesterone concentrations were evaluated by enzyme immunoessay (ELISA). There was no correlation between progesterone concentration and fertility. But there was a positive correlation between age and fertility, as older mares had major tendency of subfertility than younger ones. There was also a correlation between biopsy categories and fertility, as more histological alterations were found, higher were the chances for the mares to be subfertile. However not all mares classified as Category I and II maintained pregnancy until parturition. Other factors could influence pregnancy maintenance. In the same way, not all mares in Category III were infertile. The endometrial biopsy was shown to be an easy and cheap diagnostic technique with minimal discomfort to the animals and, together with other data, to be a very important component in the investigation of mare fertility.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Moura A.B., Costa A.J., Jordão Filho S., Paim B.B., Pinto F.R. & Di Mauro D.C. 2007. Toxoplasma gondii in semen of experimentally infected swine. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(10):430-434. Centro de Pesquisas em Sanidade Animal, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Jaboticabal, SP 14884-900, Brazil. E-mail: a2abm@cav.udesc.br Eight reproductive boars were divided into three groups and inoculated with Toxoplasma gondii [GI (n=3) 1.5x104 oocysts strain P; GII (n=3) 1.0x106 tachyzoites strain RH; and GIII (n=2) non-inoculated control]. Clinical, hematological, parasitemia and serological tests and studies of the parasite in the semen through bioassay and PCR, and in reproductive organs (Bioassay and immunohistochemical analyses) were conducted to evaluate the toxoplasmic infection. Blood and semen were collected on day -2, -1, 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 14 and weekly up to 84 days post-inoculation (DPI). No clinical or hematimetric alteration was observed in the boars. Parasitemia was detected in one boar inoculated with oocysts at the 7th DPI and in another boar infected with tachyzoites (GII) at the 3rd and 49th DPI. Serological tests revealed antibodies against T. gondii in animals inoculated with oocysts or tachyzoites at the 7th DPI with dilutions of 1:256 and 1:64, which reached peaks of 1:4096 at day 11 and 9, respectively. The bioassays revealed the presence of the parasite in semen samples of a boar inoculated with oocysts (GI) at 3, 49 and 56 DPI and from two boars infected with tachyzoites (GII), one animal at 5 and two animals at 49 days DPI. Mice inoculated with semen from the control group (GIII) remained serologically negative. PCR analysis showed T. gondii DNA in the semen of Boar 1 and Boar 3 inoculated with tachyzoites and oocysts, respectively. The immuno-histochemical tests showed T. gondii in the reproductive organs of Boar 1 and Boar 2, inoculated with tachyzoites and oocysts, respectively. These findings suggest the possible occurrence of venereal transmission of T. gondii in swine.

• Toxoplasmosis swine semen PCR bioassays

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Moura A.B., Costa A.J., Jordão Filho S., Paim B.B., Pinto F.R. & Di Mauro D.C. 2007. Toxoplasma gondii in semen of experimentally infected swine. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(10):430-434. Centro de Pesquisas em Sanidade Animal, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Jaboticabal, SP 14884-900, Brazil. E-mail: a2abm@cav.udesc.br Eight reproductive boars were divided into three groups and inoculated with Toxoplasma gondii [GI (n=3) 1.5x104 oocysts strain P; GII (n=3) 1.0x106 tachyzoites strain RH; and GIII (n=2) non-inoculated control]. Clinical, hematological, parasitemia and serological tests and studies of the parasite in the semen through bioassay and PCR, and in reproductive organs (Bioassay and immunohistochemical analyses) were conducted to evaluate the toxoplasmic infection. Blood and semen were collected on day -2, -1, 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 14 and weekly up to 84 days post-inoculation (DPI). No clinical or hematimetric alteration was observed in the boars. Parasitemia was detected in one boar inoculated with oocysts at the 7th DPI and in another boar infected with tachyzoites (GII) at the 3rd and 49th DPI. Serological tests revealed antibodies against T. gondii in animals inoculated with oocysts or tachyzoites at the 7th DPI with dilutions of 1:256 and 1:64, which reached peaks of 1:4096 at day 11 and 9, respectively. The bioassays revealed the presence of the parasite in semen samples of a boar inoculated with oocysts (GI) at 3, 49 and 56 DPI and from two boars infected with tachyzoites (GII), one animal at 5 and two animals at 49 days DPI. Mice inoculated with semen from the control group (GIII) remained serologically negative. PCR analysis showed T. gondii DNA in the semen of Boar 1 and Boar 3 inoculated with tachyzoites and oocysts, respectively. The immuno-histochemical tests showed T. gondii in the reproductive organs of Boar 1 and Boar 2, inoculated with tachyzoites and oocysts, respectively. These findings suggest the possible occurrence of venereal transmission of T. gondii in swine.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Melo E.S.P., Araújo F.R., Ramos C.A.N., Soares C.O., Rosinha G.M.S., Elisei C. & Madruga C.R. 2007. [ELISA based on recombinant truncated MSP5 for detection of antibodies against Anaplasma marginale in cattle.] ELISA com MSP5 recombinante truncada para detecção de anticorpos contra Anaplasma marginale em bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(7):301-306. Embrapa Gado de Corte, Cx. Postal 154, Campo Grande, MS 79002-970, Brazil. E-mail: flabio@cnpgc.embrapa.br The objective of this study was the production and solubilization of recombinant truncated MSP5 of Anaplasma marginale and the evaluation of its performance in an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), to detect antibodies against the rickettsia in cattle. The fragment of msp5 gene, except the hydrophobic N-terminal region, was amplified by PCR, cloned in pTrcHis-TOPO plasmid and expressed in Escherichia coli. Solubilization of the recombinant protein was evaluated in different pHs and concentrations of urea. The sensibility and specificity of the assay were evaluated with 66 sera from cattle experimentally-infected and 96 sera from cattle free of A. marginale defined by polymerase chain reaction for msp5 gene. Serum samples from 1,666 cattle from Brazil - states of Rio Grande do Sul (73), Mato Grosso do Sul (91), Pernambuco (86), Bahia (314) and Minas Gerais (267), Uruguay (32) and Costa Rica (803), were tested by ELISAs with recombinant truncated MSP5 and with recombinant MSP1a, and the agreement between both ELISAs was calculated. ELISA with recombinant truncated MSP5 protein detected infected animals with sensibility of 96.97% and specificity of 100%. In cattle experimentally-infected, the ELISA detected antibodies from the 12th day post-infection (DPI) to the end of the experiment, at the 37th DPI. The agreement between the ELISAs with truncated MSP5 and MSP1a antigens was 95.67%, with a kappa index of 0.81. Disagreement results showed significative difference (p <0.001). Antibodies for A. marginale were detected in animals of the all the region analyzed. The ELISA with recombinant truncated MSP5 showed a good performance in ELISA for detention of antibodies against A. marginale, with high sensitivity and specificity, representing an important tool for the diagnosis of anaplasmose bovine in epidemiological studies.

• Anaplasma marginale ELISA MSP5 solubilization recombinant protein

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Melo E.S.P., Araújo F.R., Ramos C.A.N., Soares C.O., Rosinha G.M.S., Elisei C. & Madruga C.R. 2007. [ELISA based on recombinant truncated MSP5 for detection of antibodies against Anaplasma marginale in cattle.] ELISA com MSP5 recombinante truncada para detecção de anticorpos contra Anaplasma marginale em bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(7):301-306. Embrapa Gado de Corte, Cx. Postal 154, Campo Grande, MS 79002-970, Brazil. E-mail: flabio@cnpgc.embrapa.br The objective of this study was the production and solubilization of recombinant truncated MSP5 of Anaplasma marginale and the evaluation of its performance in an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), to detect antibodies against the rickettsia in cattle. The fragment of msp5 gene, except the hydrophobic N-terminal region, was amplified by PCR, cloned in pTrcHis-TOPO plasmid and expressed in Escherichia coli. Solubilization of the recombinant protein was evaluated in different pHs and concentrations of urea. The sensibility and specificity of the assay were evaluated with 66 sera from cattle experimentally-infected and 96 sera from cattle free of A. marginale defined by polymerase chain reaction for msp5 gene. Serum samples from 1,666 cattle from Brazil - states of Rio Grande do Sul (73), Mato Grosso do Sul (91), Pernambuco (86), Bahia (314) and Minas Gerais (267), Uruguay (32) and Costa Rica (803), were tested by ELISAs with recombinant truncated MSP5 and with recombinant MSP1a, and the agreement between both ELISAs was calculated. ELISA with recombinant truncated MSP5 protein detected infected animals with sensibility of 96.97% and specificity of 100%. In cattle experimentally-infected, the ELISA detected antibodies from the 12th day post-infection (DPI) to the end of the experiment, at the 37th DPI. The agreement between the ELISAs with truncated MSP5 and MSP1a antigens was 95.67%, with a kappa index of 0.81. Disagreement results showed significative difference (p <0.001). Antibodies for A. marginale were detected in animals of the all the region analyzed. The ELISA with recombinant truncated MSP5 showed a good performance in ELISA for detention of antibodies against A. marginale, with high sensitivity and specificity, representing an important tool for the diagnosis of anaplasmose bovine in epidemiological studies.

Abstract in English:

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

• Abortion goat reproductive losses stillborn Toxoplasma gondii

Abstract in Portuguese:

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

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Almeida M.B., Tortelli F.P., Riet-Correa B., Ferreira J.L.M., Soares M.P., Farias N.A.R., Riet-Correa F. & Schild A.L. 2006. [Tick fever in southern Brazil: a retrospective study of 1978-2005.] Tristeza parasitária bovina na região sul do Rio Grande do Sul: estudo retrospectivo de 1978-2005. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(4):236-242. Laboratório Regional de Diagnóstico, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Campus Universitário s/n, Pelotas, RS 96010-900, Brazil. E-mail: alschild@terra.com.br A retrospective study of tick fever was made, which occurred from 1978-2005 in southern Rio Grande do Sul in the influence area of the Regional Diagnostic Laboratory of the Federal University of Pelotas. From 4,884 cattle specimens, sent by practitioners or which were from necropsies performed at the Diagnostic Laboratory, 231 (4.7%) were diagnosed as tick fever. Data from 221 of those outbreaks were analyzed. Ninety one (41.1%) outbreaks were caused by Babesia bovis, 11 (4.9%) by Babesia bigemina, and 65 (29.41%) by Anaplasma marginale. In other 33 (14.93%) outbreaks of babesiosis there is no information if the disease was caused by B. bovis or B. bigemina, and 21 (9.5%) outbreaks were caused by mixed infection of A. marginale and B. bovis or B. bigemina. Mean morbidity, mortality, and letality rates in 149 outbreaks were 11.17%, 6.81%, and 70.04%, respectively. Most outbreaks occurred during summer (January-March) and autumn (April-June), mainly in 1 to 3-year-old cattle. Clinical signs were depression, weakness, fallen ears, fever, and weight loss. Low packed cell volume values were always found. Hemoglobinury was observed in babesiosis. Neurological signs characterized by gait alterations, muscular tremors, aggressiveness and falling down with tonic and clonic convulsions were observed in babesiosis by B. bovis. The main gross lesions were anemia, jaundice, splenomegaly, hepatomegaly, yellow liver and cardiac hemorrhages. Hemoglobinury was observed in babesiosis, and congestion of the cerebral cortex in babesiosis by B. bovis. It is concluded that B. bovis is the main agent causing thick fever in southern Rio Grande do Sul. In that region with a cattle population of 2,630,000 heads the annual losses due to tick fever can be estimated in 6,220 cattle or US$ 1,623,000.00. Preventive measures to diminish tick fever losses in the region are necessary.

• Parasitic diseases tick fever epidemiology Babesia bovis Babesia bigemina Anaplasma marginale

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Almeida M.B., Tortelli F.P., Riet-Correa B., Ferreira J.L.M., Soares M.P., Farias N.A.R., Riet-Correa F. & Schild A.L. 2006. [Tick fever in southern Brazil: a retrospective study of 1978-2005.] Tristeza parasitária bovina na região sul do Rio Grande do Sul: estudo retrospectivo de 1978-2005. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(4):236-242. Laboratório Regional de Diagnóstico, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Campus Universitário s/n, Pelotas, RS 96010-900, Brazil. E-mail: alschild@terra.com.br A retrospective study of tick fever was made, which occurred from 1978-2005 in southern Rio Grande do Sul in the influence area of the Regional Diagnostic Laboratory of the Federal University of Pelotas. From 4,884 cattle specimens, sent by practitioners or which were from necropsies performed at the Diagnostic Laboratory, 231 (4.7%) were diagnosed as tick fever. Data from 221 of those outbreaks were analyzed. Ninety one (41.1%) outbreaks were caused by Babesia bovis, 11 (4.9%) by Babesia bigemina, and 65 (29.41%) by Anaplasma marginale. In other 33 (14.93%) outbreaks of babesiosis there is no information if the disease was caused by B. bovis or B. bigemina, and 21 (9.5%) outbreaks were caused by mixed infection of A. marginale and B. bovis or B. bigemina. Mean morbidity, mortality, and letality rates in 149 outbreaks were 11.17%, 6.81%, and 70.04%, respectively. Most outbreaks occurred during summer (January-March) and autumn (April-June), mainly in 1 to 3-year-old cattle. Clinical signs were depression, weakness, fallen ears, fever, and weight loss. Low packed cell volume values were always found. Hemoglobinury was observed in babesiosis. Neurological signs characterized by gait alterations, muscular tremors, aggressiveness and falling down with tonic and clonic convulsions were observed in babesiosis by B. bovis. The main gross lesions were anemia, jaundice, splenomegaly, hepatomegaly, yellow liver and cardiac hemorrhages. Hemoglobinury was observed in babesiosis, and congestion of the cerebral cortex in babesiosis by B. bovis. It is concluded that B. bovis is the main agent causing thick fever in southern Rio Grande do Sul. In that region with a cattle population of 2,630,000 heads the annual losses due to tick fever can be estimated in 6,220 cattle or US$ 1,623,000.00. Preventive measures to diminish tick fever losses in the region are necessary.

Abstract in English:

Minho A.P., Navarro I.T., Freire R.L., Vidotto O., Gennari S.M., Marana E.M. & Garcia J.L. 2004. Evaluation of the indirect fluorescent antibody test and modified agglutination test for detection of antibodies against Toxoplasma gondii in experimentally infected pigs. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 24(4):199-202. Depto Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Cx. Postal 6001, Londrina, PR 86050-970, Brazil. E-mail: italmar@uel.br The study determined the sensitivity and specificity of the indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT) and modified agglutination test (MAT) for anti-Toxoplasma gondii antibody detection by analyzing sera from 46 experimentally infected pigs. Values for sensitivity were 95.7% (confidence interval 95%: 84.0-99.2%) and for specificity 97.8% (confidence interval 95%: 87.0-99.9%) in both tests. There was an optimum agreement of results between IFAT and MAT evidenced by a Kappa test of 0.86. These results validate these tests for the detection of T. gondii infection in pigs. IFAT and MAT despite methodologies with different characteristics and readings have similar accuracy in pig serum samples.

• Toxoplasma gondii swine antibodies serology indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT) modified agglutination test (MAT).

Abstract in Portuguese:

Minho A.P., Navarro I.T., Freire R.L., Vidotto O., Gennari S.M., Marana E.M. & Garcia J.L. 2004. Evaluation of the indirect fluorescent antibody test and modified agglutination test for detection of antibodies against Toxoplasma gondii in experimentally infected pigs. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 24(4):199-202. Depto Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Cx. Postal 6001, Londrina, PR 86050-970, Brazil. E-mail: italmar@uel.br The study determined the sensitivity and specificity of the indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT) and modified agglutination test (MAT) for anti-Toxoplasma gondii antibody detection by analyzing sera from 46 experimentally infected pigs. Values for sensitivity were 95.7% (confidence interval 95%: 84.0-99.2%) and for specificity 97.8% (confidence interval 95%: 87.0-99.9%) in both tests. There was an optimum agreement of results between IFAT and MAT evidenced by a Kappa test of 0.86. These results validate these tests for the detection of T. gondii infection in pigs. IFAT and MAT despite methodologies with different characteristics and readings have similar accuracy in pig serum samples.

Abstract in English:

Portiansky E.L., Quiroga M.A., Machuca M.A. & Perfumo C.J. 2004. Mycoplasma suis in naturally infected pigs: an ultrastructural and morphometric study. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 24(1):1-5. Instituto de Patología, Faculdad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, Calle 60 y 118, C.C. 296, (1900) La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina. E-mail: elporti@fcv.unlp.edu.ar Swine eperythrozoonosis is a haemotrophic disease caused by Eperythrozoon suis, actually called Mycoplasma suis, an extracellular bacterial organism that apparently adheres to pig erythrocyte membrane, inducing its deformation and damage. Since little is known about the ultrastructural and morphometrical aspects of this microorganism, the present work aimed to deal with these issues. The ultrastructural study revealed the presence of structures corresponding to tubules disseminated throughout the soma of M. suis. A variable separation between the microorganism membrane and that of the erythrocyte was also observed. The structural and positional attitude of M. suis could allow speculation about its mechanism of action.

• Eperythrozoonosis Mycoplasma suis ultrastructure morphometry pathogenesis.

Abstract in Portuguese:

Portiansky E.L., Quiroga M.A., Machuca M.A. & Perfumo C.J. 2004. Mycoplasma suis in naturally infected pigs: an ultrastructural and morphometric study. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 24(1):1-5. Instituto de Patología, Faculdad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, Calle 60 y 118, C.C. 296, (1900) La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina. E-mail: elporti@fcv.unlp.edu.ar Swine eperythrozoonosis is a haemotrophic disease caused by Eperythrozoon suis, actually called Mycoplasma suis, an extracellular bacterial organism that apparently adheres to pig erythrocyte membrane, inducing its deformation and damage. Since little is known about the ultrastructural and morphometrical aspects of this microorganism, the present work aimed to deal with these issues. The ultrastructural study revealed the presence of structures corresponding to tubules disseminated throughout the soma of M. suis. A variable separation between the microorganism membrane and that of the erythrocyte was also observed. The structural and positional attitude of M. suis could allow speculation about its mechanism of action.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Araújo ER., Madruga C.R., Soares e.o. & Kessler R.H. 2003. [Progresses in immunization against Anaplasma marginale] Progressos na imunização contra Anaplasma marginale. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira23(3):139-148. Embrapa Gado de Corte, Cx. Postal 154, Campo Grande, MS 79002-970, Brazil. E-mail: flabio@cnpgc.embrapa.br The current immunization against anaplasmosis in cattle is derived from the blood of infected animais, as live or dead organisms. Nevertheless, efforts have been made to develop a new generation of vaccines. Toe outer membrane of Anaplasma marginale induces a protective immune response against challenge with homologous isolates and a partially protective response against heterologous challenge. ln this membrane, six major surface proteins (MSPs) have been identified, which · have been targeted for the development of immunogens against anaplasmosis. From those proteins, MSP1 a and MSP2 have shown the greatest potential as immunogens, protecting cattle against challenge with virulent homologous and heterologous isolates of A. marginale, despite the size polymorphism of the former protein and the variability of the gene that encodes the latter protein. Another alternative of immunogen is the in vitro culture of A. marginale. lnactivated organisms originating from Dermacentor variabilis IDE8 cell culture were tested as immunogen. Cattle immunized with cell culture-derived A. marginale had a significantly lower reduction in the packed cell volume after challenge exposure and did not display clinical anaplasmosis. Besides the protection afforded by this type of immunogen, cell culture derived organisms are free from bovine cells and pathogens, what is a major advantage as compared with traditional immunization procedures.

• Anaplasma marginale Ehrlichiae immunization bovine major surface proteins culture imunização bovino proteínas principais de superfície cultura.

Abstract in Portuguese:

RESUMO.- Araújo ER., Madruga C.R., Soares e.o. & Kessler R.H. 2003. [Progresses in immunization against Anaplasma marginale] Progressos na imunização contra Anaplasma marginale. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira23(3):139-148. Embrapa Gado de Corte, Cx. Postal 154, Campo Grande, MS 79002-970, Brazil. E-mail: flabio@cnpgc.embrapa.br Até o presente momento, as imunizações contra anaplasmose em rebanhos bovinos utilizam organismos vivos ou mortos. No entanto, esforços têm sido realizados nos últimos anos com o objetivo de desenvolver uma nova geração de vacinas. A membrana externa de Anaplasma marginale é capaz de induzir reposta imune protetora contra desafio homólogo e parcialmente protetora contra desafio heterólogo. Nela foram identificadas seis proteínas principais de superfície (MSPs), as quais têm sido alvo de estudos para o desenvolvimento de imunógenos contra a anaplasmose. Destas proteínas, MSPla e MSP2 têm demonstrado maior potencial como imunógenos, protegendo os animais contra desafio com isolados virulentos homólogos e heterólogos de A margina/e, apesar do polimorfismo de tamanho da primeira proteína e variabilidade do gene que codifica a segunda. Uma outra alternativa para a imunização contra A. margina/e é o cultivo in vitro dessa riquétsia. Organismos inativados provenientes de cultivo em células IDE8 de Dermacentor variabilis foram testados como imunógeno. Os animais apresentaram uma significativa diferença na redução do volume globular após desafio e não apresentaram sinais clínicos de anaplasmose. Além da proteção conferida por este tipo de imunógeno, os organismos provenientes de cultura de células de carrapato são livres de células. e patógenos de bovinos, o que é uma vantagem significativa quando comparado aos processos tradicionais de imunização.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Pretto L.G., Müller E.E., Freitas J.C., Mettifogo E., Buzinhani M., Yamaguti M. & Salvador R. 2001. [Mastitis caused by Mycoplasma bovis in dairy cattle] Mastite bovina por Mycoplasma bovis em rebanhos leiteiros. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 21(4):143-145. Depto Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Cx. Postal 6001, Londrina, PR 86051-970, Brazil. In this study 713 cows were examined. The animals were from three dairy farms in northern Paraná and the southwest of the State of São Paulo. From these cows, 137 had mastitis. On the three farms, 8 cows (1-12%) with Mycoplasma bovis mastitis were detected. Four were treated with tylosin and oxytetracyçlin and three with enrofloxacin There was no response to the treatments, and these animals were culled during the lactation period. One cow treated with enrofloxacin almost totally recovered milk production, but elimination of M. bovis continued during the lactation, and there was no bacteriological cure. This cow had a normal milk production in the next lactation period, without elimination of M. bovis. Culling of positive animals, the bacteriological study anel correct application of preventive practices for contagious mastitis controlled the dissemination of M. bovis to other animals.

• Mastitis dairy cattle Mycoplasma bovis Mastite gado leiteiro.

Abstract in Portuguese:

RESUMO.- Pretto L.G., Müller E.E., Freitas J.C., Mettifogo E., Buzinhani M., Yamaguti M. & Salvador R. 2001. [Mastitis caused by Mycoplasma bovis in dairy cattle] Mastite bovina por Mycoplasma bovis em rebanhos leiteiros. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 21(4):143-145. Depto Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Cx. Postal 6001, Londrina, PR 86051-970, Brazil. Foram examinadas 713 vacas de três rebanhos leiteiros localizados na região norte do Estado do Paraná e sudoeste do Estado de São Paulo, das quais 137 apresentaram mastite. Nas três propriedades foram detectados oito animais (1, 12%) com mastite clínica por Mycoplasma bovis. Destes animais, quatro tratados com oxitetraciclina e tilosina e três com enrofloxacina, não responderam ao tratamento e foram descartados no decorrer da lactação. Uma vaca medicada com enrofloxacina recuperou quase que totalmente a secreção láctea mas a eliminação de M. bovis persistiu por toda lactação. Esta vaca apresentou cura bacteriológica na lactação seguinte. O descarte dos animais positivos, monitoramento bacteriológico e a aplicação correta das me9idas de prevenção para as mastites contagiosas controlaram a disseminação de M. bovis nos rebanhos.