PESQUISA VETERINÁRIA BRASILEIRA

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Aguiar D.M, Gennari S.M., Cavalcante G.T., Labruna M.B., Vasconcellos S.A., Rodrigues A.A.R., Moraes Z.M. & Camargo L.M.A. 2006. Seroprevalence of Leptospira spp in cattle from Monte Negro municipality, western Amazon. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(2):102-104. Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine and Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of São Paulo, Av. Prof. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, São Paulo, SP 05508-900, Brazil. E-mail: danmoura@aptaregional.sp.gov.br The prevalence of anti-Leptospira spp antibodies was investigated in 2,109 female cattle from 86 herds of Monte Negro municipality, Rondônia, Brazil. Sera samples were evaluated by Microscopic Agglutination Test against 24 leptospira serovars. Titers =100 for at least one of 24 leptospira serovars were detected in 1,114 cows (52.8%) from 82 (95.3%) herds. The adjusted overall prevalence for Monte Negro municipality was 53.9% (49-58.7%; CI: 95%). The most prevalent serovars were Hardjo (14.5%), Wolffi (12.3%), Shermani (10.8%), Patoc (7.9%), and Hebdomadis (6.1%). Other serovars worldwidely reported like Bratislava, Pomona and Grippotyphosa were detected in low levels.

• Leptospira spp cattle epidemiology Amazon.

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Aguiar D.M, Gennari S.M., Cavalcante G.T., Labruna M.B., Vasconcellos S.A., Rodrigues A.A.R., Moraes Z.M. & Camargo L.M.A. 2006. Seroprevalence of Leptospira spp in cattle from Monte Negro municipality, western Amazon. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(2):102-104. Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine and Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of São Paulo, Av. Prof. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, São Paulo, SP 05508-900, Brazil. E-mail: danmoura@aptaregional.sp.gov.br The prevalence of anti-Leptospira spp antibodies was investigated in 2,109 female cattle from 86 herds of Monte Negro municipality, Rondônia, Brazil. Sera samples were evaluated by Microscopic Agglutination Test against 24 leptospira serovars. Titers =100 for at least one of 24 leptospira serovars were detected in 1,114 cows (52.8%) from 82 (95.3%) herds. The adjusted overall prevalence for Monte Negro municipality was 53.9% (49-58.7%; CI: 95%). The most prevalent serovars were Hardjo (14.5%), Wolffi (12.3%), Shermani (10.8%), Patoc (7.9%), and Hebdomadis (6.1%). Other serovars worldwidely reported like Bratislava, Pomona and Grippotyphosa were detected in low levels.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Rissi D.R., Oliveira F.N., Rech R.R., Pierezan F., Lemos R.A.A. & Barros C.S.L. 2006. [Epidemiology, clinical signs and distribution of the encephalic lesions in cattle affected by meningoencephalitis caused by bovine herpesvirus-5.] Epidemiologia, sinais clínicos e distribuição das lesões encefálicas em bovinos afetados por meningoencefalite por herpesvírus bovino-5. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(2):123-132. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br Seven outbreaks and an isolated case of meningoencephalitis caused by bovine herpesvirus-5 (BoHV-5) in cattle in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, occurring in 2002-2004, are described. From a total population at risk of 1,359 cattle, 54 1-18-month-old calves from both sexes and several breeds were affected and 50 died spontaneously or were euthanatized while moribund. The highest frequency of cases was in recently weaned calves or calves submitted to other stressing factors. General rates of morbidity, mortality and lethality were respectively 3.97, 3.67 and 92.59%. Clinical courses varied from 3-10 days and included depression, nasal and ocular discharge, grinding of teeth, circling, blindness, fever, nistagmus, trembling, anorexia, dysphagia, drooling, incoordination, head pressing, rough hair coat, tachycardia, tachypnea, abdominal pain, melena, falls, recumbency, opisthotonus, convulsions and paddling. Nineteen calves were necropsied. Necropsy findings were characterized by hyperemia of leptomeninges, swollen rostral portions of the telencephalon, and flattening of frontal lobes gyri; frequently in these frontal areas there were segmental brown-yellow discoloration and softening (malacia) of the cortex. In cases with more protracted clinical courses there were extensive swelling, softening and hemorrhaging of the telencephalic frontal lobes. Microscopically, all affected cattle had a necrotizing non-suppurative meningoencephalitis with variable distribution among the 19 cases and among the various telencephalic regions of the same case. The severity of these changes were more marked, in decreasing order of intensity, in the telencephalic frontal cortex, basal ganglia (nuclei), thalamus, brain stem, parietal telencephalic cortex, occipital telencephalic cortex and cerebellum. Perivascular inflammatory infiltrate consisted predominantly of lymphocytes, plasm cells, and less frequently of neutrophils. Additional microscopic findings included variable degrees of gliosis, edema, neuronal necrosis in the telencephalic cortex characterized by shrinking and eosinophilia of perikaria and nuclear picnosis (red neuron); basophilic intranuclear inclusion bodies in astrocytes and neurons (21.05% of the cases); sattelitosis; and neuronophagia. The areas of softening in the cortical substance consisted of necrosis of the neuroctodermal elements with maintenance of mesenchymal structures (vessels and microglia), infiltrate of Gitter cells, and, in more severe cases, extensive hemorrhages. In chronic cases, only vascular structures and a few Gitter cells remained in the cortical area leaving a cavity between white matter and leptomeninges (residual lesion).

• Bovine herpesvirus-5 BoHV-5 encephalitis diseases of cattle viral diseases neuropathology.

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Rissi D.R., Oliveira F.N., Rech R.R., Pierezan F., Lemos R.A.A. & Barros C.S.L. 2006. [Epidemiology, clinical signs and distribution of the encephalic lesions in cattle affected by meningoencephalitis caused by bovine herpesvirus-5.] Epidemiologia, sinais clínicos e distribuição das lesões encefálicas em bovinos afetados por meningoencefalite por herpesvírus bovino-5. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(2):123-132. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br Seven outbreaks and an isolated case of meningoencephalitis caused by bovine herpesvirus-5 (BoHV-5) in cattle in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, occurring in 2002-2004, are described. From a total population at risk of 1,359 cattle, 54 1-18-month-old calves from both sexes and several breeds were affected and 50 died spontaneously or were euthanatized while moribund. The highest frequency of cases was in recently weaned calves or calves submitted to other stressing factors. General rates of morbidity, mortality and lethality were respectively 3.97, 3.67 and 92.59%. Clinical courses varied from 3-10 days and included depression, nasal and ocular discharge, grinding of teeth, circling, blindness, fever, nistagmus, trembling, anorexia, dysphagia, drooling, incoordination, head pressing, rough hair coat, tachycardia, tachypnea, abdominal pain, melena, falls, recumbency, opisthotonus, convulsions and paddling. Nineteen calves were necropsied. Necropsy findings were characterized by hyperemia of leptomeninges, swollen rostral portions of the telencephalon, and flattening of frontal lobes gyri; frequently in these frontal areas there were segmental brown-yellow discoloration and softening (malacia) of the cortex. In cases with more protracted clinical courses there were extensive swelling, softening and hemorrhaging of the telencephalic frontal lobes. Microscopically, all affected cattle had a necrotizing non-suppurative meningoencephalitis with variable distribution among the 19 cases and among the various telencephalic regions of the same case. The severity of these changes were more marked, in decreasing order of intensity, in the telencephalic frontal cortex, basal ganglia (nuclei), thalamus, brain stem, parietal telencephalic cortex, occipital telencephalic cortex and cerebellum. Perivascular inflammatory infiltrate consisted predominantly of lymphocytes, plasm cells, and less frequently of neutrophils. Additional microscopic findings included variable degrees of gliosis, edema, neuronal necrosis in the telencephalic cortex characterized by shrinking and eosinophilia of perikaria and nuclear picnosis (red neuron); basophilic intranuclear inclusion bodies in astrocytes and neurons (21.05% of the cases); sattelitosis; and neuronophagia. The areas of softening in the cortical substance consisted of necrosis of the neuroctodermal elements with maintenance of mesenchymal structures (vessels and microglia), infiltrate of Gitter cells, and, in more severe cases, extensive hemorrhages. In chronic cases, only vascular structures and a few Gitter cells remained in the cortical area leaving a cavity between white matter and leptomeninges (residual lesion).

Abstract in English:

Lima E.F., Riet-Correa F., Castro R.S., Gomes A.A.B. & Lima F.S. 2005. [Clinical signs, distribution of the lesions in the central nervous system and epidemiology of rabies in northeastern Brazil.] Sinais clínicos, distribuição das lesões no sistema nervoso e epidemiologia da raiva em herbívoros na região Nordeste do Brasil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(4):250-264. Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, Campus de Patos, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Patos, PB 58700-000, Brazil. E-mail: riet@cstr.ufcg.br Twenty four outbreaks of rabies in cattle, 4 in horses, 2 in sheep, and 2 in goats are reported in northeastern Brazil. All outbreaks occurred in the state of Paraíba, except one in horses that occurred in the state of Rio Grande do Norte. All outbreaks, except one in sheep, were probably transmitted by vampire-bats, but the transmission by foxes (Dusicyon vetulus) is also possible. Clinical signs were characteristic for distribution of the lesions in the central nervous system (CNS). In cattle, signs were mainly of the paralytic form of rabies, caused by lesions on the spinal cord, brain stem and cerebellum; but some animals showed also depression, excitation and other signs due to cerebral lesions. In 3 out of 5 horses, the main clinical signs were due to lesions in the cerebrum, and 2 had the paralytic form. From 4 sheep and 2 goats affected, 4 showed clinical signs of the paralytic form; but in 1 goat and 1 sheep the main clinical signs were caused by cerebral lesions. All affected animals, except 1 goat, had a clinical manifestation period of 2-8 days. The only gross lesions were distention of the urinary bladder in 4 cattle and distention of the rectum in 2 others. Two horses had skin lesions due to traumatic injury. Histologic lesions were diffuse non-suppurative encephalomyelitis and meningitis. In the horses, and in one goat with a clinical manifestation period of 35 days, the lesions were more severe, with neuronal necrosis, neuronophagia, and presence of axonal spheroids. Negri bodies were found in 87% (20/23) of the cattle cases examined histologically. In small ruminants Negri bodies were found in 83% (5/6) of the cases. In sheep, goats and cattle, Negri bodies were more frequent in the cerebellum, but they were found also in brain stem, spinal cord and cerebrum. In horses, Negri bodies were found in small amounts only in the cortex of one animal, and in the cortex and hippocampus of another. Histologic lesions and Negri bodies in the trigeminal ganglia were less frequent than in the CNS. These results show that in rabies of herbivores, clinical signs and distribution of lesions in the CNS are variable, so that for the diagnosis and adequate clinical evaluation and the histologic study of different areas of the CNS are necessary. This also suggests that when the fluorescent antibody test and mouse inoculation test are negative, they should be repeated with samples from different areas of the brain and spinal cord. Frequency data of diseases from 4 diagnostic laboratories were used to estimate cattle deaths due to rabies in 3 Brazilian states. In Paraíba, with a population of 918,262 cattle, the annual death rate is estimated in 8,609 heads. In Mato Grosso do Sul, with a population of 23 millions cattle, deaths caused by rabies are estimated in 149,500 heads, and in Rio Grande do Sul, with a cattle population of 13 millions, cattle deaths due to rabies are estimated in 13,000 to 16,250 heads. If these data are used to estimate cattle losses in Brazil, with a cattle population of 195 millions, it can be estimated that 842,688 deaths are caused annually by rabies.

• Rabies cattle sheep goats horses pathology clinical signs economical impact.

Abstract in Portuguese:

Lima E.F., Riet-Correa F., Castro R.S., Gomes A.A.B. & Lima F.S. 2005. [Clinical signs, distribution of the lesions in the central nervous system and epidemiology of rabies in northeastern Brazil.] Sinais clínicos, distribuição das lesões no sistema nervoso e epidemiologia da raiva em herbívoros na região Nordeste do Brasil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(4):250-264. Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, Campus de Patos, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Patos, PB 58700-000, Brazil. E-mail: riet@cstr.ufcg.br Twenty four outbreaks of rabies in cattle, 4 in horses, 2 in sheep, and 2 in goats are reported in northeastern Brazil. All outbreaks occurred in the state of Paraíba, except one in horses that occurred in the state of Rio Grande do Norte. All outbreaks, except one in sheep, were probably transmitted by vampire-bats, but the transmission by foxes (Dusicyon vetulus) is also possible. Clinical signs were characteristic for distribution of the lesions in the central nervous system (CNS). In cattle, signs were mainly of the paralytic form of rabies, caused by lesions on the spinal cord, brain stem and cerebellum; but some animals showed also depression, excitation and other signs due to cerebral lesions. In 3 out of 5 horses, the main clinical signs were due to lesions in the cerebrum, and 2 had the paralytic form. From 4 sheep and 2 goats affected, 4 showed clinical signs of the paralytic form; but in 1 goat and 1 sheep the main clinical signs were caused by cerebral lesions. All affected animals, except 1 goat, had a clinical manifestation period of 2-8 days. The only gross lesions were distention of the urinary bladder in 4 cattle and distention of the rectum in 2 others. Two horses had skin lesions due to traumatic injury. Histologic lesions were diffuse non-suppurative encephalomyelitis and meningitis. In the horses, and in one goat with a clinical manifestation period of 35 days, the lesions were more severe, with neuronal necrosis, neuronophagia, and presence of axonal spheroids. Negri bodies were found in 87% (20/23) of the cattle cases examined histologically. In small ruminants Negri bodies were found in 83% (5/6) of the cases. In sheep, goats and cattle, Negri bodies were more frequent in the cerebellum, but they were found also in brain stem, spinal cord and cerebrum. In horses, Negri bodies were found in small amounts only in the cortex of one animal, and in the cortex and hippocampus of another. Histologic lesions and Negri bodies in the trigeminal ganglia were less frequent than in the CNS. These results show that in rabies of herbivores, clinical signs and distribution of lesions in the CNS are variable, so that for the diagnosis and adequate clinical evaluation and the histologic study of different areas of the CNS are necessary. This also suggests that when the fluorescent antibody test and mouse inoculation test are negative, they should be repeated with samples from different areas of the brain and spinal cord. Frequency data of diseases from 4 diagnostic laboratories were used to estimate cattle deaths due to rabies in 3 Brazilian states. In Paraíba, with a population of 918,262 cattle, the annual death rate is estimated in 8,609 heads. In Mato Grosso do Sul, with a population of 23 millions cattle, deaths caused by rabies are estimated in 149,500 heads, and in Rio Grande do Sul, with a cattle population of 13 millions, cattle deaths due to rabies are estimated in 13,000 to 16,250 heads. If these data are used to estimate cattle losses in Brazil, with a cattle population of 195 millions, it can be estimated that 842,688 deaths are caused annually by rabies.

Abstract in English:

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

• Bovine viral diarrhea virus BVDV epidemiology diagnostic.

Abstract in Portuguese:

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

Abstract in English:

Catto J.B., Bianchin I., Torres Junior R.A.A. 2005. [Effects of deworming of cow-calf beef herds in brazilian savannas.] Efeitos da everminação de matrizes e de bezerros lactentes em sistema de produção de bovinos de corte na região de Cerrado. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(3):188-194. Embrapa Gado de Corte, Rodov. 162, Km 4, Campo Grande, MS 79002-950, Brazil. E-mail: catto@cnpgc.embrapa.br The effect of deworming with ivermectin of cows before calving and of suckling calves on fecal egg counts (EPG) and productive performance of two beef cattle herds in Central Brazil was studied. Four groups of pregnant cows received the following treatments: T1- cows and calves not treated, T2- only calves treated, T3- only cows treated, and T4- cows and calves treated. The calves of T2 and T4 were distributed in the following treatments: A- calves treated at 3 to 5 months of age with long action ivermectin, B- treated with ivermectin, and C- control. For the cows, the deworming did not diminish the EPG during lactation and also did not have significant effect on the conception rate, live weight gain and the body weight of their calves at 3 to 5 months of age. The calves of treatment A gained, from the time of treatment to weaning (84 to 108 days), an average of 4.2kg (P=0.0003) and 7.1kg (P<0.0001) more than those of treatment B and C, respectively. The average difference in live weight gain of 2.9kg between the animals of treatment B and C was not significant. The EPG before treatment was not significantly different from the treatments (P=0.8665); but at weaning, the average EPG of the calves from treatment A was lower than for treatment B (P=0.0004) and C (P<0.0001). There was no significant difference in the mean EPG for the calves from treatment B and C.

• Beef cattle cows suckling calves nematodes treatment Brazilian savannas.

Abstract in Portuguese:

Catto J.B., Bianchin I., Torres Junior R.A.A. 2005. [Effects of deworming of cow-calf beef herds in brazilian savannas.] Efeitos da everminação de matrizes e de bezerros lactentes em sistema de produção de bovinos de corte na região de Cerrado. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(3):188-194. Embrapa Gado de Corte, Rodov. 162, Km 4, Campo Grande, MS 79002-950, Brazil. E-mail: catto@cnpgc.embrapa.br The effect of deworming with ivermectin of cows before calving and of suckling calves on fecal egg counts (EPG) and productive performance of two beef cattle herds in Central Brazil was studied. Four groups of pregnant cows received the following treatments: T1- cows and calves not treated, T2- only calves treated, T3- only cows treated, and T4- cows and calves treated. The calves of T2 and T4 were distributed in the following treatments: A- calves treated at 3 to 5 months of age with long action ivermectin, B- treated with ivermectin, and C- control. For the cows, the deworming did not diminish the EPG during lactation and also did not have significant effect on the conception rate, live weight gain and the body weight of their calves at 3 to 5 months of age. The calves of treatment A gained, from the time of treatment to weaning (84 to 108 days), an average of 4.2kg (P=0.0003) and 7.1kg (P<0.0001) more than those of treatment B and C, respectively. The average difference in live weight gain of 2.9kg between the animals of treatment B and C was not significant. The EPG before treatment was not significantly different from the treatments (P=0.8665); but at weaning, the average EPG of the calves from treatment A was lower than for treatment B (P=0.0004) and C (P<0.0001). There was no significant difference in the mean EPG for the calves from treatment B and C.

Abstract in English:

Lemos E.R.S., D'Andrea P.S., Bonvicino C. R., Famadas K. M., Padula P., Cavalcanti A.A. & Schatzmayr H.G. 2004. Evidence of hantavirus infection in wild rodents captured in a rural area of the state of São Paulo, Brazil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 24(2):71-73. Depto Virologia, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Av. Brasil 4365, Pavilhão Rocha Lima, 5º andar, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21045-900, Brazil. E-mail: elemos@ioc.fiocruz.br Hantaviruses are the etiological agents of the Hantavirus Cardio-Pulmonary Syndrome, a serious rodent-borne disease in Brazil. In order to investigate the occurrence of hantavirus infection in wild rodents, a survey was conducted in three different suburban areas of the municipality of Pedreira, State of São Paulo, Brazil. Of the 145 wild animals captured belonging to 12 different species identified by morphology and karyological analysis, 107 were rodents of the following species: Akodon montensis, Bolomys lasiurus, Calomys tener, Oligoryzomys nigripes, Oligoryzomys flavescens, and Myocastor coypus. Blood samples from these rodents were assayed for the presence of antibodies against hantavirus by IgG ELISA using Andes recombinant nucleocapsid antigen. Antibody reactive to Andes virus was found in two different species, O. nigripes and O. flavescens. These results indicate a potential risk for hantavirus transmission to humans in this area, where reservoir rodents are present in peridomestic settings.

• Hantavirus rodent survey Pedreira São Paulo Brazil.

Abstract in Portuguese:

Lemos E.R.S., D'Andrea P.S., Bonvicino C. R., Famadas K. M., Padula P., Cavalcanti A.A. & Schatzmayr H.G. 2004. Evidence of hantavirus infection in wild rodents captured in a rural area of the state of São Paulo, Brazil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 24(2):71-73. Depto Virologia, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Av. Brasil 4365, Pavilhão Rocha Lima, 5º andar, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21045-900, Brazil. E-mail: elemos@ioc.fiocruz.br Hantaviruses are the etiological agents of the Hantavirus Cardio-Pulmonary Syndrome, a serious rodent-borne disease in Brazil. In order to investigate the occurrence of hantavirus infection in wild rodents, a survey was conducted in three different suburban areas of the municipality of Pedreira, State of São Paulo, Brazil. Of the 145 wild animals captured belonging to 12 different species identified by morphology and karyological analysis, 107 were rodents of the following species: Akodon montensis, Bolomys lasiurus, Calomys tener, Oligoryzomys nigripes, Oligoryzomys flavescens, and Myocastor coypus. Blood samples from these rodents were assayed for the presence of antibodies against hantavirus by IgG ELISA using Andes recombinant nucleocapsid antigen. Antibody reactive to Andes virus was found in two different species, O. nigripes and O. flavescens. These results indicate a potential risk for hantavirus transmission to humans in this area, where reservoir rodents are present in peridomestic settings.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Viana J.H.M., Nascimento A.A., Pinheiro N.L., Ferreira A.M., Camargo L.S.A., Sá W.F. & Marques Júnior A.P. 2003. [Characterization of tissue damages after ovum pick-up in bovine.) Caracterização de seqüelas subseqüentes à punção folicular em bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 23(3):119-124. Embrapa Gado de Leite, Juiz de Fora, MG 36038-330, Brazil. E-mail: jhmviana@cnpgl.embrapa.br The aim of this studywas to evaluate lesions of the genital tract in animais used as oocyte donors. Gir breed cows (n=20) used in different experiments involving the ovum pick-up technique were evaluated. At the end of each experimental period the animais were examined by rectal palpation, ultrasonography and vaginoscopy. A group of cows (n=8) were selected for histopathologic characterization of ovarian lesions. Ovaries were surgically removed, fixed and processed for histological examination. The cows evaluated underwent 9 to 42 puncture sessions, and yielded 10 to 719 oocytes. There was a low prevalence (5.26%) of inflammatory changes in the vagina mucosa. The occurrence of adherence was significantly correlated with the number of puncture sessions the animal underwent (r=0.31; P<0.05), but not with the total of oocytes collected (r=0.03; P>0.05). The opposite was observed reganding ovarian fibrosis, which showed a high correlation with oocyte yield (r=0.53; P<0.05). Histopathologic evaluation revealed scar tissue, inflammatory cell infiltration and presence of luteal tissue dispersed within the ovarian stroma.

• Adherence cattle fibrosis follicular ablation ovarian lesions Ablação folicular aderência fibrose lesões de ovário bovinos.

Abstract in Portuguese:

RESUMO.- Viana J.H.M., Nascimento A.A., Pinheiro N.L., Ferreira A.M., Camargo L.S.A., Sá W.F. & Marques Júnior A.P. 2003. [Characterization of tissue damages after ovum pick-up in bovine.] Caracterização de seqüelas subseqüentes à punção folicular em bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 23(3):119-124. Embrapa Gado de Leite, Juiz de Fora, MG 36038-330, Brazil. E-mail: jhmviana@cnpgl.embrapa.br Objetivaram-se avaliar lesões no trato genital em animais utilizados como doadores de oócitos. Foram examinadas vacas da raça Gir (n=20) que participaram de diferentes experimentos envolvendo a técnica de punção folicular. Ao término de cada período experimental, os animais foram examinados por palpação retal, ultra-sonografia e vagi-noscopia. Um grupo de vacas (n=8) foi selecionado para a caracterização histopatológica das lesões ovarianas. Os ovários foram retirados cirurgicamente, fixados e processados, e as lâminas obtidas coradas e analisadas. Fóram avaliados animais submetidos a entre nove e 42 sessões de punção, e que produziram entre 10 e 719 oócitos. Observou-se uma baixa prevalência (5,26%) de processos inflamatórios na mucosa do fundo de saco vaginal. A ocorrência de aderências apresentou uma correlação positiva com o número de sessões de punção a que o animal foi submetido (r=0,31; P<0,05), mas não com o total de oócitos recuperados (r=0,03; P>0,05). Tendência oposta foi observada em relação à fibrose ovariana, que apresentou uma alta correlação com o número de oócitos recuperados (r=0,53; P<0,05). A avaliação histopatológica demonstrou a presença de tecido cicatricial, infiltrados de células inflamatórias e presença de tecido luteal disperso no estroma ovariano.

Abstract in English:

RESUMO.- Brum K.B., Purisco E., Lemos R.A.A. & Riet-Correa F. 2002. [Intoxication by Vernonia rubricaulis in cattle in Mato Grosso do Sul.] Intoxicação por Vernonia rubricaulis em bovinos no Mato Grosso do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 22(3):119-128. Depto Medicina Veterinária, UFMS, Cx. Postal 549, Campo Grande, MS 79070-900. E-mail: rlemos@nin.ufms.br Descrevem-se surtos de intoxicação por Vernonia rubricoulis em bovinos em nove fazendas no Estado de Mato Grosso do Sul, entre setembro de 1999 e maio de 2001. No total morreram pelo menos 954 animais. Alguns fatores foram aparentemente importantes para a ocorrência da intoxicação: a utilização de técnicas que favorecem a brotação da planta incluindo a utilização da roçadeira ("trilho") para o controle de plantas invasoras, assim como a queima ou o desmatamento do campo; o transporte de animais procedentes de outras fazendas ou de outros piquetes da mesma fazenda, com ou sem manejo de animais no curral; e a superlotação de piquetes. O curso clínico variou de 12 a 48 horas. Os sinais clínicos foram, principalmente, agressividade ou depressão, salivação, cegueira, gemidos, incoordenação, retração de abdômen, fezes ressecadas com muco e estrias de sangue, focinho seco e decúbito. A letalidade foi de 100%. Os principais achados de necropsia foram observados no fígado. As lesões hepáticas variavam num mesmo animal e entre diferentes animais. Áreas focais vermelhas de hemorragias com tamanhos variando entre 1 mm e 25cm, foram observadas em meio ao tecido hepático amarelado em alguns casos. Fígados inteiros ou áreas hepáticas com aspecto de noz-moscada e fígados difusamente amarelados com ou sem hemorragias petequiais, também foram observados. Ocorriam, também, hemorragias em diferentes tecidos e órgãos. As principais alterações histológicas caracterizaram-se por necrose centrolobular com vacuolização dos hepatócitos das áreas periportais e intermediárias ou necrose massiva e vacuolização difusa dos hepatócitos. A intoxicação foi reproduzida experimentalmente em três bovinos. A menor dose que causou morte foi de 3g/kg da planta verde fresca em fase de brotação. Os sinais clínicos e as lesões macro e microscópicas observadas foram semelhantes às apresentadas pelos animais intoxicados naturalmente.

• Toxic plants Vernonia rubricaulis liver necrosis cattle Plantas tóxicas necrose hepática bovinos.

Abstract in Portuguese:

RESUMO.- Brum K.B., Purisco E., Lemos R.A.A. & Riet-Correa F. 2002. [Intoxication by Vernonia rubricaulis in cattle in Mato Grosso do Sul.] Intoxicação por Vernonia rubricaulis em bovinos no Mato Grosso do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 22(3):119-128. Depto Medicina Veterinária, UFMS, Cx. Postal 549, Campo Grande, MS 79070-900. E-mail: rlemos@nin.ufms.br Descrevem-se surtos de intoxicação por Vernonia rubricoulis em bovinos em nove fazendas no Estado de Mato Grosso do Sul, entre setembro de 1999 e maio de 2001. No total morreram pelo menos 954 animais. Alguns fatores foram aparentemente importantes para a ocorrência da intoxicação: a utilização de técnicas que favorecem a brotação da planta incluindo a utilização da roçadeira ("trilho") para o controle de plantas invasoras, assim como a queima ou o desmatamento do campo; o transporte de animais procedentes de outras fazendas ou de outros piquetes da mesma fazenda, com ou sem manejo de animais no curral; e a superlotação de piquetes. O curso clínico variou de 12 a 48 horas. Os sinais clínicos foram, principalmente, agressividade ou depressão, salivação, cegueira, gemidos, incoordenação, retração de abdômen, fezes ressecadas com muco e estrias de sangue, focinho seco e decúbito. A letalidade foi de 100%. Os principais achados de necropsia foram observados no fígado. As lesões hepáticas variavam num mesmo animal e entre diferentes animais. Áreas focais vermelhas de hemorragias com tamanhos variando entre 1 mm e 25cm, foram observadas em meio ao tecido hepático amarelado em alguns casos. Fígados inteiros ou áreas hepáticas com aspecto de noz-moscada e fígados difusamente amarelados com ou sem hemorragias petequiais, também foram observados. Ocorriam, também, hemorragias em diferentes tecidos e órgãos. As principais alterações histológicas caracterizaram-se por necrose centrolobular com vacuolização dos hepatócitos das áreas periportais e intermediárias ou necrose massiva e vacuolização difusa dos hepatócitos. A intoxicação foi reproduzida experimentalmente em três bovinos. A menor dose que causou morte foi de 3g/kg da planta verde fresca em fase de brotação. Os sinais clínicos e as lesões macro e microscópicas observadas foram semelhantes às apresentadas pelos animais intoxicados naturalmente.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Mathias, L.A., Chaves, L.F., Chen, A.A., Girio, R.J.S. & Valério Neto, W. 2001. [Evolution of serological antibody titres by the plate agglutination, rose Bengal and complement fixation tests in Nelore heifers (Bos indicus) vaccinated at 18 months of age with Brucella abortus strain 19] Evolução de títulos sorológicos, nas provas de soroaglutinação em placa, antígeno acidificado tamponado e fixação de complemento, em bezerras Nelore vacinadas aos 18 meses de idade com Brucella abortus amostra B 19. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 21(4):139-142. Depto Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Unesp-Campus de Jaboticabal, SP 14884-900, Brazil. One hundred and eight Nelore heifers (Bos indicus) about 18 months of age were vaccinated with a standard dosage (60-120 x 109 viable organisms) of Brucella abortus strain 19 vaccine, airning at to study the persistence of serological antibody titres by the plate agglutination, rase Bengal and cornplement fixation tests. Serum samples were collected just before vaccination and after 45 days, 6, 12 and 18 months. Before the vaccination, all the heifers showed negative results by the three tests. After 45 days, all the heifers had titres higher than or equal to 1/100 by the plate agglutination test and all of them showed positive results by the rose Bengal plate test, while 2 animals had titre 1/2 and 106 animals had titres higher than or equal to 1/4 by the complement fixation test. One year after the vaccination, most of the heifers did not show significant serological antibody titres. Considering the risk to which animals in endemic areas and infected herds are subjected, and considering the clear reduction of the serological antibody titres shown by most of the vaccinated heifers, one rnay assume that, in case of Nelore heifers in endemic areas and that were not vaccinated between 3 and 8 months of age, it would be more reasonable to vaccinate them at 18 months of age than to expose them to a high risk of Brucella infection.

• Bovine brucellosis strain 19 vaccine serological response Brucelose bovina vacina B 19 resposta sorológica.

Abstract in Portuguese:

RESUMO.- Mathias, L.A., Chaves, L.F., Chen, A.A., Girio, R.J.S. & Valério Neto, W. 2001. [Evolution of serological antibody titres by the plate agglutination, rose Bengal and complement fixation tests in Nelore heifers (Bos indicus) vaccinated at 18 months of age with Brucella abortus strain 19] Evolução de títulos sorológicos, nas provas de soroaglutinação em placa, antígeno acidificado tamponado e fixação de complemento, em bezerras Nelore vacinadas aos 18 meses de idade com Brucella abortus amostra B 19. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 21(4):139-142. Depto Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Unesp-Campus de Jaboticabal, SP 14884-900, Brazil. Com o objetivo de estudar a persistência da resposta sorológica, através das provas de soroaglutinação em placa, rosa Bengala e fixação de complemento, 108 bezerras, com idade ao redor de 18 meses, foram vacinadas com uma dose padrão da vacina preparada com Bntcella abortus amostra B 19. Foram obtidas amostras de soro sangüíneo antes da vacinação e após 45 dias, 6, 12 e 18 meses. Antes da vacinação, todas as bezerras apresentaram resultados negativos nos três testes. Após 45 dias, todas apresentaram título a partir de 1/100 na prova de soroaglutinação em placa e todas apresentaram resultado positivo no teste rosa Bengala, ao passo que dois animais apresentaram título 1/2 e os demais apresentaram título a partir de 1/4 na reação de fixação de complemento. Após um ano de vacinação, a grande maioria das bezerras já não apresentava título sorológico significativo. Considerando o risco a que estão sujeitos animais que vivem em áreas endêmicas e em propriedades onde a doença ocorre, e considerando a acentuada redução de título sorológico observada na grande maioria dos animais, pode-se concluir que, no caso bezerras de raças zebuínas em áreas endêmicas e que não tenham sido vacinadas na idade regulamentar, é mais vantajoso vaciná-las com a amostra B 19 aos 18 meses de idade do que deixá-las expostas a um elevado risco de infecção por Brucella.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Dutra I.S., Dobereiner J., Rosa I.V., Souza L.A.A. & Nonato M. 2001. [Botulism outbreaks in cattle in Brazil associated with contaminated water] Surtos de botulismo em bovinos no Brasil associados à ingestão de água contaminada. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 21(2):43-48. Depto Apoio, Produção e Saúde Animal, Unesp-Campus de Araçatuba, Cx. Postai 533, Araçatuba, SP 16050-680, Brazil. Botulism in cattle occurs by ingestion of botulinum toxin C and/or D. Seven outbreaks of the poisoning in the states of Mato Grosso do Sul and São Paulo are reported. The clinical and pathological data, epidemiology and laboratory findings indicate a possible intake of the toxin through contaminated water. The average mortality rate was 20.1%, with 99.2% lethality and 31.62% morbidity. From about 9,000 cattle envolved in the outbreaks, 2,844 animals died, predominantly with a byperacute and acute clinical picture. The high morbidity rates were observed within a short period and affected all categories of cattle, with a clinical and pathological picture characterized by paresis and paralysis of the muscles of locomotion, swallowing and mastigation, with abscence of gross lesions at post-mortem examination. The outbreaks were related to the presence of decomposed animal carcasses or vegetal material in the drinking water. Botulinum toxins C and/or D were detected in water samples, víscera and blood serum of a considerable number of materials examined.

• Botulism cattle Clostridium botulinum contaminated water outbreaks Botulismo bovinos água contaminada surtos.

Abstract in Portuguese:

RESUMO.- Dutra I.S., Dobereiner J., Rosa I.V., Souza L.A.A. & Nonato M. 2001. [Botulism outbreaks in cattle in Brazil associated with contaminated water] Surtos de botulismo em bovinos no Brasil associados à ingestão de água contaminada. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 21(2):43-48. Depto Apoio, Produção e Saúde Animal, Unesp-Campus de Araçatuba, Cx. Postai 533, Araçatuba, SP 16050-680, Brazil. Botulismo em bovinos resulta da ingestão de toxina previamente formada. No presente trabalho são descritos sete surtos da intoxicação onde os dados clínico-patológicos, epidemiológicos e os achados laboratoriais indicaram a possível ingestão da toxina através da água contaminada. O coeficiente médio de mortalidade foi de 20, 1%, com letalidade de 99,92%, e morbidade de 31,62%. Dos cerca de 9.000 bovinos envolvidos nos surtos, 2.844 morreram com quadro clínico predominantemente superagudo e agudo. A alta morbidade e mortalidade foram registradas num curto período de tempo e envolveram todas as categorias animais, com quadro clínico-patológico caracterizado por paresia e paralisia da musculatura da locomoção, deglutição e mastigação e ausência de lesões macroscópicas. As circunstâncias em que ocorreram os surtos estiveram relacionadas com a existência de carcaças de animais decompostas ou matéria orgânica vegetal na água de dessedentação. Foram detectadas toxinas botulínicas C e/ou D nas coleções de água, nas vísceras e no soro sangüíneo de parte considerável dos materiais examinados.