PESQUISA VETERINÁRIA BRASILEIRA

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Zuccari D.A.P.C., Pavam M.V., Terzian A.C.B., Pereira R.S., Ruiz C.M. & Andrade J.C.† 2008. Immunohistochemical evaluation of Ki-67 and PCNA in canine mammary neoplasias: Correlation with prognostic factors and clinical outcome. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(4):207-215. Centro Regional de Bioterismo, FAMERP, Av. Brigadeiro Faria Lima 5416, São José do Rio Preto, SP 15090-000, Brazil. E-mail: debora.zuccari@famerp.br E-cadherin is a cell-cell adhesion molecule and low e-cadherin expression is related to invasiveness and may indicate a bad prognosis in mammary neoplasms. The expression of cell proliferation markers PCNA and especially Ki-67, has also proved to have a strong prognostic value in this tumor class. The expression of these markers was related to the clinical-pathological characteristics of 73 surgically removed mammary tumors in female dogs by immunohistochemistry. There was no statistical correlation between these markers and death by neoplasm, survival time and disease-free interval. However, the loss of e-cadherin expression and marked Ki-67 expression (p=0.016) were considered statistically significant for the diagnosis (p=0.032). When evaluated as independent factors, there was evidence of the relationship between the loss of e-cadherin expression and high PCNA expression with changes in the body status (divided into obese, normal and cachectic) of female dogs (p=0.030); there was also evidence of the relationship between pseudopregnancy and e-cadherin alone (p=0.021) and for ulceration and PCNA alone (p=0.035). The significant correlation between the markers expression and these well known prognostic factors used individually or in combination suggests their prognostic value in canine mammary tumors.

• Canine cell proliferation marker e-cadherin immunohistochemistry mammary neoplasm

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Zuccari D.A.P.C., Pavam M.V., Terzian A.C.B., Pereira R.S., Ruiz C.M. & Andrade J.C.† 2008. Immunohistochemical evaluation of Ki-67 and PCNA in canine mammary neoplasias: Correlation with prognostic factors and clinical outcome. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(4):207-215. Centro Regional de Bioterismo, FAMERP, Av. Brigadeiro Faria Lima 5416, São José do Rio Preto, SP 15090-000, Brazil. E-mail: debora.zuccari@famerp.br E-cadherin is a cell-cell adhesion molecule and low e-cadherin expression is related to invasiveness and may indicate a bad prognosis in mammary neoplasms. The expression of cell proliferation markers PCNA and especially Ki-67, has also proved to have a strong prognostic value in this tumor class. The expression of these markers was related to the clinical-pathological characteristics of 73 surgically removed mammary tumors in female dogs by immunohistochemistry. There was no statistical correlation between these markers and death by neoplasm, survival time and disease-free interval. However, the loss of e-cadherin expression and marked Ki-67 expression (p=0.016) were considered statistically significant for the diagnosis (p=0.032). When evaluated as independent factors, there was evidence of the relationship between the loss of e-cadherin expression and high PCNA expression with changes in the body status (divided into obese, normal and cachectic) of female dogs (p=0.030); there was also evidence of the relationship between pseudopregnancy and e-cadherin alone (p=0.021) and for ulceration and PCNA alone (p=0.035). The significant correlation between the markers expression and these well known prognostic factors used individually or in combination suggests their prognostic value in canine mammary tumors.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Almeida M.B., Priebe A.P.S., Riet-Correa B., Riet-Correa G., Fiss L., Raffi M.B. & Schild A.L. 2008. [Evolution and reversibility of neurologic and cardiac lesions in sheep caused by Ateleia glazioviana and Tetrapterys multiglandulosa.] Evolução e reversibiliade das lesões neurológicas e cardíacas em ovinos intoxicados experimentalmente por Ateleia glazioviana e Tetrapterys multiglandulosa. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(3):129-134. 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 To determine the reversibility of neurological and cardiac lesions in Ateleia glazioviana and Tetrapterys multiglandulosa poisoning, 3 groups of four sheep each were fed orally with the plants. In Group 1, 2 and 3, when sheep with nervous signs showed considerable increase of symptoms and risk of death, the plant administration was suspended. Group 4 with two sheep was used as control. Sheep from Group 1, fed 10g/kg during 6 days of fresh A. glazioviana collected in autumn were euthanized 8, 11, 16, and 21 days after the start of the experiment; they had shown regression of nervous signs, but had progressive cardiac lesions. Sheep from Group 2, fed during 8 days the same dose of fresh A. glazioviana collected in spring, were euthanized on days 9, 23, 38 and 68; they had shown regression of nervous signs and had no cardiac lesions. This suggests that the plant is less toxic in spring. Sheep from Group 3, fed 10g/kg during 11 days dry and ground T. multiglandulosa mixed with concentrated food, were euthanized on days 33, 33, 92 and 92; they had shown regression of nervous signs, and cardiac lesions were less severe on day 33 than on day 92. These results indicate that nervous lesions are reversible after the end of feeding, but cardiac lesions are progressive after discontinuation of the plant administration; these can be afterwards reversible if the animals do not anymore show clinical signs or die as a consequence of the poisoning. Results of those and previous experiments show that lesions of the nervous system are induced by lower doses than cardiac lesions and occur within a shorter period, what suggests that in spontaneous cases cardiac signs are always preceded by nervous signs, and that nervous signs can occur in the absence of cardiac lesions.

• Poisonous plants cardiomyopathy status spongiosus Ateleia glazioviana Tetrapterys multiglandulosa plant poisoning sheep

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Almeida M.B., Priebe A.P.S., Riet-Correa B., Riet-Correa G., Fiss L., Raffi M.B. & Schild A.L. 2008. [Evolution and reversibility of neurologic and cardiac lesions in sheep caused by Ateleia glazioviana and Tetrapterys multiglandulosa.] Evolução e reversibiliade das lesões neurológicas e cardíacas em ovinos intoxicados experimentalmente por Ateleia glazioviana e Tetrapterys multiglandulosa. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(3):129-134. 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 To determine the reversibility of neurological and cardiac lesions in Ateleia glazioviana and Tetrapterys multiglandulosa poisoning, 3 groups of four sheep each were fed orally with the plants. In Group 1, 2 and 3, when sheep with nervous signs showed considerable increase of symptoms and risk of death, the plant administration was suspended. Group 4 with two sheep was used as control. Sheep from Group 1, fed 10g/kg during 6 days of fresh A. glazioviana collected in autumn were euthanized 8, 11, 16, and 21 days after the start of the experiment; they had shown regression of nervous signs, but had progressive cardiac lesions. Sheep from Group 2, fed during 8 days the same dose of fresh A. glazioviana collected in spring, were euthanized on days 9, 23, 38 and 68; they had shown regression of nervous signs and had no cardiac lesions. This suggests that the plant is less toxic in spring. Sheep from Group 3, fed 10g/kg during 11 days dry and ground T. multiglandulosa mixed with concentrated food, were euthanized on days 33, 33, 92 and 92; they had shown regression of nervous signs, and cardiac lesions were less severe on day 33 than on day 92. These results indicate that nervous lesions are reversible after the end of feeding, but cardiac lesions are progressive after discontinuation of the plant administration; these can be afterwards reversible if the animals do not anymore show clinical signs or die as a consequence of the poisoning. Results of those and previous experiments show that lesions of the nervous system are induced by lower doses than cardiac lesions and occur within a shorter period, what suggests that in spontaneous cases cardiac signs are always preceded by nervous signs, and that nervous signs can occur in the absence of cardiac lesions.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Vidotti A.P., Agreste F.R., Bombonato P.P. & Prado I.M.M. 2008. [Arterial vascularization of the sinoatrial node in swine hearts: origin, distribution and quantification.] Vascularização arterial da região do nó sinoatrial em corações suínos: origem, distribuição e quantificação. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(2):113-118. Departamento de Cirurgia, Setor de Anatomia dos Animais Domésticos e Silvestres, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, Cidade Universitária, São Paulo, SP 05508-000, Brazil. E-mail: avidotti@usp.br The sinoatrial node, for being topographically installed as the initial component of the conduction system, is responsible for the production of the nervous impulses, which determines the cardiac contraction. There have been made studies related to the node’s morphology in order to know the origin, distribution and quantification of the vases in this tissue, however, in spite of the results and quantitative data of the nodal irrigation - arterial vascular conduct and arterial vascular density, at the nodal level - the literature is scarce. With this objective 27 SRD swine hearts, injected with colored resin for macroscopic analysis of the origin and distribution of ANSA (sinoatrial node artery), 3 others injected with watery solution of colloidal coal (dyed nanquim) were used, to mark the route of the vases on the node level for stereological analysis. The atrial arteries originated as well from the right coronary artery as from the left one, with predominance of the first (66.66% and 33.33%, respectively). When originated from the right coronary artery, there existed the following branches: AADAM (right cranial medial atrial artery) in 14 cases, AADAI (right cranial intermedial atrial artery) in 2 cases, and AADAL (right cranial lateral atrial artery) in 2 cases. In 9 cases (33.33%) the following branches originated from the left coronary artery: 4 through branch AASPL (left caudal lateral atrial artery), 2 through branch AASAI (left cranial intermedial atrial artery) and 3 through branch AASAM (left cranial medial atrial artery). Interarterial anastomoses with vessels responsible for irrigation of the sinoatrial node area were observed in most of the cases (25 hearts). The Volume or Reference Volume (V(ref)) of the hearts were 35.32x104µm3. For the stereological variables analyzed, the estimate density of the vessel length (Lv) was 766; the vessel length (L) - mm - was 27.06x105µm; the area’s surface density (Sv) was 182 and the area’s surface (S) - mm2 - was 64.3x106µm2. The estimate of the vascular numeric density (Nv(vasc)) - total of vessels per unit of volume (cm3) was 2.19 10-5, and the total number of vessels in the organ (N(vasc)), estimated by the physical dissector method in combination with the estimate of the number of Euler (Xv), was 773.6832 x10-2. The raised vascular density and total number of vases in the swine’s sinoatrial node area suggests the existence of a vascular perinodal network complex and dense, ratifying the importance of this mark-pass for its blood supply.

• Heart vascularization sinoatrial node morphometry swine

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Vidotti A.P., Agreste F.R., Bombonato P.P. & Prado I.M.M. 2008. [Arterial vascularization of the sinoatrial node in swine hearts: origin, distribution and quantification.] Vascularização arterial da região do nó sinoatrial em corações suínos: origem, distribuição e quantificação. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(2):113-118. Departamento de Cirurgia, Setor de Anatomia dos Animais Domésticos e Silvestres, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, Cidade Universitária, São Paulo, SP 05508-000, Brazil. E-mail: avidotti@usp.br The sinoatrial node, for being topographically installed as the initial component of the conduction system, is responsible for the production of the nervous impulses, which determines the cardiac contraction. There have been made studies related to the node’s morphology in order to know the origin, distribution and quantification of the vases in this tissue, however, in spite of the results and quantitative data of the nodal irrigation - arterial vascular conduct and arterial vascular density, at the nodal level - the literature is scarce. With this objective 27 SRD swine hearts, injected with colored resin for macroscopic analysis of the origin and distribution of ANSA (sinoatrial node artery), 3 others injected with watery solution of colloidal coal (dyed nanquim) were used, to mark the route of the vases on the node level for stereological analysis. The atrial arteries originated as well from the right coronary artery as from the left one, with predominance of the first (66.66% and 33.33%, respectively). When originated from the right coronary artery, there existed the following branches: AADAM (right cranial medial atrial artery) in 14 cases, AADAI (right cranial intermedial atrial artery) in 2 cases, and AADAL (right cranial lateral atrial artery) in 2 cases. In 9 cases (33.33%) the following branches originated from the left coronary artery: 4 through branch AASPL (left caudal lateral atrial artery), 2 through branch AASAI (left cranial intermedial atrial artery) and 3 through branch AASAM (left cranial medial atrial artery). Interarterial anastomoses with vessels responsible for irrigation of the sinoatrial node area were observed in most of the cases (25 hearts). The Volume or Reference Volume (V(ref)) of the hearts were 35.32x104µm3. For the stereological variables analyzed, the estimate density of the vessel length (Lv) was 766; the vessel length (L) - mm - was 27.06x105µm; the area’s surface density (Sv) was 182 and the area’s surface (S) - mm2 - was 64.3x106µm2. The estimate of the vascular numeric density (Nv(vasc)) - total of vessels per unit of volume (cm3) was 2.19 10-5, and the total number of vessels in the organ (N(vasc)), estimated by the physical dissector method in combination with the estimate of the number of Euler (Xv), was 773.6832 x10-2. The raised vascular density and total number of vases in the swine’s sinoatrial node area suggests the existence of a vascular perinodal network complex and dense, ratifying the importance of this mark-pass for its blood supply.

Abstract in English:

Abstract.- Pescador C.A., Bandarra P.M., Castro L.A., Antoniassi N.A.B., Ravazollo, A.P., Sonne L. Cruz C.E.F. & Driemeier D. 2007. Co-infection by porcine circovirus type 2 and porcine parvovirus in aborted fetuses and stillborn piglets in southern Brazil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(10):425-429. Departamento de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: davetpat@ufrgs.br Porcine circovirus types 1 and 2 (PCV1, PCV2) and porcine parvovirus (PPV) are widespread in pig populations around the world. Nevertheless, only PCV2 has been associated with different clinical syndromes, thus representing a major problem to the pig industry. The association of cases of swine abortions and stillborns with PCV1 and PCV2 and PPV was studied retrospectively (2005-2007). Additional pathogens were also investigated in lesioned fetuses. The studied litters included stillborn piglets and several mummified fetuses of varied sizes. Ventricular dilatation, myocardial pale areas, and mesocolic edema were the gross lesions. Escherichia coli was detected as co-infecting with PCV2 the cases in which mesocolic edema was seen. Microscopic lesions included non-suppurative myocarditis, myocardial necrosis and fibrosis, mineralization foci and intranuclear inclusion bodies in cardiomyocytes, and interstitial mononuclear pneumonia. Samples from 7 (5.78 per cent) of 121 aborted fetuses and stillborn piglets had lesions consistent with a viral cause and showed both positive anti-PCV2 immunostaining as well as PCV2-PCR. In samples from 3 (2.47 per cent) of these 7 fetuses, co-infection with PPV was confirmed by Nested-PCR. Both viruses were detected in fetuses at different stages of gestation. Viral antigens of PCV2 were detected by immunohistochemistry mainly in macrophages and myocytes. PCV1 individually was not detected in any of these affected fetuses, but it was associated with PCV2 and/or PPV in some of them. These findings indicate that PCV2 alone or in association with PPV should be kept in mind when investigating causes of infectious abortion in pigs in Brazil.

• Abortion PCV2 PCV1 PPV stillborn swine Brazil

Abstract in Portuguese:

Abstract.- Pescador C.A., Bandarra P.M., Castro L.A., Antoniassi N.A.B., Ravazollo, A.P., Sonne L. Cruz C.E.F. & Driemeier D. 2007. Co-infection by porcine circovirus type 2 and porcine parvovirus in aborted fetuses and stillborn piglets in southern Brazil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(10):425-429. Departamento de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: davetpat@ufrgs.br Porcine circovirus types 1 and 2 (PCV1, PCV2) and porcine parvovirus (PPV) are widespread in pig populations around the world. Nevertheless, only PCV2 has been associated with different clinical syndromes, thus representing a major problem to the pig industry. The association of cases of swine abortions and stillborns with PCV1 and PCV2 and PPV was studied retrospectively (2005-2007). Additional pathogens were also investigated in lesioned fetuses. The studied litters included stillborn piglets and several mummified fetuses of varied sizes. Ventricular dilatation, myocardial pale areas, and mesocolic edema were the gross lesions. Escherichia coli was detected as co-infecting with PCV2 the cases in which mesocolic edema was seen. Microscopic lesions included non-suppurative myocarditis, myocardial necrosis and fibrosis, mineralization foci and intranuclear inclusion bodies in cardiomyocytes, and interstitial mononuclear pneumonia. Samples from 7 (5.78 per cent) of 121 aborted fetuses and stillborn piglets had lesions consistent with a viral cause and showed both positive anti-PCV2 immunostaining as well as PCV2-PCR. In samples from 3 (2.47 per cent) of these 7 fetuses, co-infection with PPV was confirmed by Nested-PCR. Both viruses were detected in fetuses at different stages of gestation. Viral antigens of PCV2 were detected by immunohistochemistry mainly in macrophages and myocytes. PCV1 individually was not detected in any of these affected fetuses, but it was associated with PCV2 and/or PPV in some of them. These findings indicate that PCV2 alone or in association with PPV should be kept in mind when investigating causes of infectious abortion in pigs in Brazil.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Inoe A.P., Pereira F.C., Stopiglia A.J. & Da-Silva C.F. 2007. Pharmacological immunomodulation enhances peripheral nerve regeneration. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(9):363-369. Departamento de Anatomia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade de São Paulo, Cidade Universitária, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes 2415, São Paulo, SP 055508-900, Brazil. E-mail: ana.paula@unipar.br To assess the effect of N-Acetylmuramyl-L-Alanyl-D-Isoglutamine MDP topically administrated on the regenerating peripheral neurons, twelve male C57BL/6J adult mice were equally distributed into three groups. Four mice underwent unilateral sciatic nerve transection and polyethylene tubulization, with a 4mm gap between the proximal and distal nerve stumps and were implanted with collagen + PBS (COL). Other four animals underwent the same surgical procedure but received collagen + MDP (COL/MDP) inside the prosthesis. Four animals were not operated and served as control group (NOR). After 4 weeks, the regenerated nerve cables were processed for total myelinated axon counting and myelinated fiber diameter measurement. The L5 dorsal root ganglion (DRG) was also removed and sectioned for sensory neurons counting and measurement. The results revealed significant difference (p<0.05) in axonal counting among the groups NOR (4,355±32), COL (1,869±289) and COL/MDP (2,430±223). There was a significant reduction in the axonal diameter in the operated groups (COL=3.38mm±1.16 and COL/MDP=3.54mm±1.16) compared to NOR (6.19mm±2.45). No difference was found in the number of DRG neurons between the experimental groups (COL=564±51; COL/MDP=514±56), which presented fewer sensory neurons compared to NOR (1,097±142). Data obtained indicate that locally applied MDP stimulates peripheral nerve regeneration in mice.

• N-Acetylmuramyl-L-Alanyl-D-Isoglutamine MDP nerve regeneration drug effect sciatic nerve surgery

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Inoe A.P., Pereira F.C., Stopiglia A.J. & Da-Silva C.F. 2007. Pharmacological immunomodulation enhances peripheral nerve regeneration. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(9):363-369. Departamento de Anatomia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade de São Paulo, Cidade Universitária, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes 2415, São Paulo, SP 055508-900, Brazil. E-mail: ana.paula@unipar.br To assess the effect of N-Acetylmuramyl-L-Alanyl-D-Isoglutamine MDP topically administrated on the regenerating peripheral neurons, twelve male C57BL/6J adult mice were equally distributed into three groups. Four mice underwent unilateral sciatic nerve transection and polyethylene tubulization, with a 4mm gap between the proximal and distal nerve stumps and were implanted with collagen + PBS (COL). Other four animals underwent the same surgical procedure but received collagen + MDP (COL/MDP) inside the prosthesis. Four animals were not operated and served as control group (NOR). After 4 weeks, the regenerated nerve cables were processed for total myelinated axon counting and myelinated fiber diameter measurement. The L5 dorsal root ganglion (DRG) was also removed and sectioned for sensory neurons counting and measurement. The results revealed significant difference (p<0.05) in axonal counting among the groups NOR (4,355±32), COL (1,869±289) and COL/MDP (2,430±223). There was a significant reduction in the axonal diameter in the operated groups (COL=3.38mm±1.16 and COL/MDP=3.54mm±1.16) compared to NOR (6.19mm±2.45). No difference was found in the number of DRG neurons between the experimental groups (COL=564±51; COL/MDP=514±56), which presented fewer sensory neurons compared to NOR (1,097±142). Data obtained indicate that locally applied MDP stimulates peripheral nerve regeneration in mice.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Schild A.L., Sallis E.S.V., Priebe A.P., Soares M.P., Almeida M.B., Ladeira S.R.L., Schramm R. & Riet-Correa F. 2006. Anthrax in cattle in southern Brazil: 1978-2006. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(4):243-248. Laboratório Regional de Diagnóstico, Faculdade de Veterinária, Univer-sidade Federal de Pelotas, Campus Universitário s/n, Pelotas, RS 96010-900, Brazil. E-mail: alschild@terra.com.br Ten outbreaks of anthrax occurred in cattle from 1978 to 2006 in southern Brazil, in 5 municipalities on the border with Uruguay, a country where the disease is frequent. The 10 outbreaks represented 0.2% of all bovine specimens received during the period by the Regional Diagnostic Laboratory of the Federal University of Pelotas, causing 267 deaths in a risk population of 6,605 head. The disease affected young and adult cattle mainly during summer. Only one farmer reported that sheep and horses were also affected. Clinically the peracute form was more frequent, but in some outbreaks the acute form with a clinical manifestation period of 6-48 hours was also observed. The source of infection was not established; but the reduced rainfall, associated with low, flat, flooded lands used for agriculture followed by animal grazing after harvest was probably related to the disease occurrence. Annual vaccination is an efficient way to prevent the disease.

• Anthrax Bacillus anthracis infectious disease disease of cattle

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Schild A.L., Sallis E.S.V., Priebe A.P., Soares M.P., Almeida M.B., Ladeira S.R.L., Schramm R. & Riet-Correa F. 2006. Anthrax in cattle in southern Brazil: 1978-2006. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(4):243-248. Laboratório Regional de Diagnóstico, Faculdade de Veterinária, Univer-sidade Federal de Pelotas, Campus Universitário s/n, Pelotas, RS 96010-900, Brazil. E-mail: alschild@terra.com.br Ten outbreaks of anthrax occurred in cattle from 1978 to 2006 in southern Brazil, in 5 municipalities on the border with Uruguay, a country where the disease is frequent. The 10 outbreaks represented 0.2% of all bovine specimens received during the period by the Regional Diagnostic Laboratory of the Federal University of Pelotas, causing 267 deaths in a risk population of 6,605 head. The disease affected young and adult cattle mainly during summer. Only one farmer reported that sheep and horses were also affected. Clinically the peracute form was more frequent, but in some outbreaks the acute form with a clinical manifestation period of 6-48 hours was also observed. The source of infection was not established; but the reduced rainfall, associated with low, flat, flooded lands used for agriculture followed by animal grazing after harvest was probably related to the disease occurrence. Annual vaccination is an efficient way to prevent the disease.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Almeida A.P.M.G., Kommers G.D., Nogueira A.P.A., Júnior L.G.B., Marques B.M.F.P. & Lemos R.A.A. 2006. [Evaluation of the toxicity of Leucaena leucocephala (Leg. Mimosoi-deae) in sheep.] Avaliação do efeito tóxico de Leucaena leucocephala (Leg.Mimosoideae) em ovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(3):190-194. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Faculdade de Medicina Vetetinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, Av. Senador Filinto Müller 2443, Cx.Postal 549, Campo Grande, MS 79070-900, Brazil. E-mail: eqrural@nin.ufms.br An experiment was performed to evaluate the toxicity of Leucaena leucocephala for sheep. Two ewes and six lambs were divided into seven treatments and fed the plant. The adult ewes did not show clinical signs of poisoning. The 4 to 5-month-old lambs presented partial wool loss 6 days after beginning of the administration of the plant and total wool loss after 12 or 20 days. The age of the sheep in this experiment suggests resistance of adult ewes and susceptibility of young lambs to L. leucocaephala poisoning.

• Poisonous plants Leucaena leucocephala Leguminosae Mimosoideae plant poisoning sheep diseases pathology

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Almeida A.P.M.G., Kommers G.D., Nogueira A.P.A., Júnior L.G.B., Marques B.M.F.P. & Lemos R.A.A. 2006. [Evaluation of the toxicity of Leucaena leucocephala (Leg. Mimosoi-deae) in sheep.] Avaliação do efeito tóxico de Leucaena leucocephala (Leg.Mimosoideae) em ovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(3):190-194. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Faculdade de Medicina Vetetinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, Av. Senador Filinto Müller 2443, Cx.Postal 549, Campo Grande, MS 79070-900, Brazil. E-mail: eqrural@nin.ufms.br An experiment was performed to evaluate the toxicity of Leucaena leucocephala for sheep. Two ewes and six lambs were divided into seven treatments and fed the plant. The adult ewes did not show clinical signs of poisoning. The 4 to 5-month-old lambs presented partial wool loss 6 days after beginning of the administration of the plant and total wool loss after 12 or 20 days. The age of the sheep in this experiment suggests resistance of adult ewes and susceptibility of young lambs to L. leucocaephala poisoning.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Costa M.M., Silva M.S., Spricigo D.A., Witt N.M., Marchioro S.B., Kolling L. & Vargas A.P.C. 2006. [Epidemiology, molecular characterization and resistance to antimicrobials of Escherichia coli isolated from South-Brazilian pig herds.] Caracterização epidemiológica, molecular e perfil de resistência aos antimicrobianos de Escherichia coli isoladas de criatórios suínos do Sul do Brasil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(1):5-8. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Centro de Ciências Rurais, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: agueda@ccr.ufsm.br Colibacillosis is an enteric disease with a major impact to the swine industry and is caused by enterotoxigenic strains of Escherichia coli. Forty clinical isolates from pigs with diarrhea and 13 environmental isolates were analysed regarding their genotypic profile, genetic relationship and antibiotic resistance. The most prevalent gene was Stb, identified in 50% of the isolates from clinical cases, and Sta and Lt were detected in 35% of them. Among the adesine factors investigated, F18 was found in 27.5% of the E. coli strains. The ERIC-PCR technique used for epidemiological characterization of the isolates did not show the expected discriminatory power. However, the test allowed separation of the isolates in groups, but did not evidence groups related to virulence factors. In the susceptibility test, the highest values for resistance were to tetracycline, in 88.6%. The index of multiple resistance to antimicrobials varied from 0 to 0.69.

• Escherichia coli genotypic profile resistance.

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Costa M.M., Silva M.S., Spricigo D.A., Witt N.M., Marchioro S.B., Kolling L. & Vargas A.P.C. 2006. [Epidemiology, molecular characterization and resistance to antimicrobials of Escherichia coli isolated from South-Brazilian pig herds.] Caracterização epidemiológica, molecular e perfil de resistência aos antimicrobianos de Escherichia coli isoladas de criatórios suínos do Sul do Brasil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(1):5-8. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Centro de Ciências Rurais, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: agueda@ccr.ufsm.br Colibacillosis is an enteric disease with a major impact to the swine industry and is caused by enterotoxigenic strains of Escherichia coli. Forty clinical isolates from pigs with diarrhea and 13 environmental isolates were analysed regarding their genotypic profile, genetic relationship and antibiotic resistance. The most prevalent gene was Stb, identified in 50% of the isolates from clinical cases, and Sta and Lt were detected in 35% of them. Among the adesine factors investigated, F18 was found in 27.5% of the E. coli strains. The ERIC-PCR technique used for epidemiological characterization of the isolates did not show the expected discriminatory power. However, the test allowed separation of the isolates in groups, but did not evidence groups related to virulence factors. In the susceptibility test, the highest values for resistance were to tetracycline, in 88.6%. The index of multiple resistance to antimicrobials varied from 0 to 0.69.

Abstract in English:

Lima V.M.F., Biazzono L., Silva A.C., Correa A.P.F.L. & Luvizotto M.C.R. 2005. Serological diagnosis of visceral leishmaniasis by an enzyme immunoassay using protein A in naturally infected dogs. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(4):215-218. Departamento de Clínica, Cirurgia e Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Rua Clóvis Pestana 793, Araçatuba, SP 16050-680, Brazil. E-mail: vmflima@fmva.unesp.br A rapid indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was developed for measuring antibodies against Leishmania chagasi using total antigen from lysed promastigotes. Fifty symptomatic mixed breed dogs from a region of high incidence of visceral leishmaniasis in Brazil were examined. The results showed that in the positive animals, diagnosed by cytological examination, the ELISA using protein A assay system (mean optical density ± SD / 2.078 ± 0.631) detected more antibodies than the anti-IgG assay (mean optical density ± SD / 1.008 ± 0.437), while in the negative animals, the results by both systems were similar. These results suggest that the ELISA assay using protein A peroxidase conjugated could be useful to detect early infected animals in endemic areas, and thus help to control the spread of the infection.

• Leishmania chagasi visceral leishmaniasis protein A dogs.

Abstract in Portuguese:

Lima V.M.F., Biazzono L., Silva A.C., Correa A.P.F.L. & Luvizotto M.C.R. 2005. Serological diagnosis of visceral leishmaniasis by an enzyme immunoassay using protein A in naturally infected dogs. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(4):215-218. Departamento de Clínica, Cirurgia e Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Rua Clóvis Pestana 793, Araçatuba, SP 16050-680, Brazil. E-mail: vmflima@fmva.unesp.br A rapid indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was developed for measuring antibodies against Leishmania chagasi using total antigen from lysed promastigotes. Fifty symptomatic mixed breed dogs from a region of high incidence of visceral leishmaniasis in Brazil were examined. The results showed that in the positive animals, diagnosed by cytological examination, the ELISA using protein A assay system (mean optical density ± SD / 2.078 ± 0.631) detected more antibodies than the anti-IgG assay (mean optical density ± SD / 1.008 ± 0.437), while in the negative animals, the results by both systems were similar. These results suggest that the ELISA assay using protein A peroxidase conjugated could be useful to detect early infected animals in endemic areas, and thus help to control the spread of the infection.

Abstract in English:

Assis R.A., Lobato F.C.F., Serakides R., Santos R.L., Dias G.R.C., Nascimento R.A.P., Abreu V.L.V, Parreiras P.M. & Uzal F.A. 2005. Immunohistochemical detection of Clostridia species in paraffin-embedded tissues of experimentally inoculated guinea pigs. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(1):4-8. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Av. Presidente Antônio Carlos 6627, Cx. Postal 567, Belo Horizonte, MG 30123-970, Brazil. E-mail: assisra@rwnet.com.br Blackleg is caused by Clostridium chauvoei, whereas malignant oedema is caused by C. chauvoei, C. septicum, C. sordellii, C. perfringens type A, and/or C. novyi type A. Anti-C. chauvoei, anti-C. septicum, anti-C. sordellii and anti-C. novyi type A polyclonal antibodies were produced in rabbits and purified in a column of DEAE-cellulose. Aliquots of the antisera were conjugated with fluorescein isothiocyanate and the remaining was used for the streptavidin biotin peroxidase technique (SBPT). SBPT was standardized to detect C. chauvoei, C. septicum, C. sordellii and C. novyi type A in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues of guinea pigs. SBPT was compared to a fluorescent antibody technique (FAT). Sections and smears of muscle from inoculation area (MIA), heart, liver, spleen and kidney, were obtained for both SBPT and FAT. Cross-reactions between the different Clostridial species were not observed. C. chauvoei and C. septicum were detected in all specimens from the animals inoculated with these microorganisms, while only sections of muscle obtained from all the animals inoculated with C. sordellii and C. novyi type A were positive. The same results observed by the SBPT, were obtained on tissue smears of these microorganisms stained by the FAT. The results indicate that SBPT is suitable for detection of C. chauvoei, C. septicum, C. sordellii and C. novyi type A in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues of guinea pigs.

• Blackleg malignant oedema Clostridia guinea pigs fluorescent antibody technique streptavidin biotin peroxidase technique.

Abstract in Portuguese:

Assis R.A., Lobato F.C.F., Serakides R., Santos R.L., Dias G.R.C., Nascimento R.A.P., Abreu V.L.V, Parreiras P.M. & Uzal F.A. 2005. Immunohistochemical detection of Clostridia species in paraffin-embedded tissues of experimentally inoculated guinea pigs. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(1):4-8. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Av. Presidente Antônio Carlos 6627, Cx. Postal 567, Belo Horizonte, MG 30123-970, Brazil. E-mail: assisra@rwnet.com.br Blackleg is caused by Clostridium chauvoei, whereas malignant oedema is caused by C. chauvoei, C. septicum, C. sordellii, C. perfringens type A, and/or C. novyi type A. Anti-C. chauvoei, anti-C. septicum, anti-C. sordellii and anti-C. novyi type A polyclonal antibodies were produced in rabbits and purified in a column of DEAE-cellulose. Aliquots of the antisera were conjugated with fluorescein isothiocyanate and the remaining was used for the streptavidin biotin peroxidase technique (SBPT). SBPT was standardized to detect C. chauvoei, C. septicum, C. sordellii and C. novyi type A in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues of guinea pigs. SBPT was compared to a fluorescent antibody technique (FAT). Sections and smears of muscle from inoculation area (MIA), heart, liver, spleen and kidney, were obtained for both SBPT and FAT. Cross-reactions between the different Clostridial species were not observed. C. chauvoei and C. septicum were detected in all specimens from the animals inoculated with these microorganisms, while only sections of muscle obtained from all the animals inoculated with C. sordellii and C. novyi type A were positive. The same results observed by the SBPT, were obtained on tissue smears of these microorganisms stained by the FAT. The results indicate that SBPT is suitable for detection of C. chauvoei, C. septicum, C. sordellii and C. novyi type A in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues of guinea pigs.