PESQUISA VETERINÁRIA BRASILEIRA

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Brum K.B., Haraguchi M., Lemos R.A.A, Riet-Correa F. & Fioravanti M.C.S. 2007. Crystal-associated cholangiopathy in sheep grazing Brachiaria decumbens containing the saponin protodioscin. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(1):39-42. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, Caixa Postal 549, Campo Grande, MS 79070-900, Brazil. E-mail: kbbrum@gmail.com An outbreak of hepatogenous photosensitization is reported in a flock of 28 sheep grazing Brachiaria decumbens in Mato Grosso do Sul State, Central-Western Brazil. Seven lambs and an adult sheep were affected and 6 of them died. Two surviving affected lambs and one lamb without clinical signs had increased serum values of gamma glutamyltransferase, bilirubin, and cholesterol. In two adult unaffected sheep those parameters were within normal values. An adult sheep submitted to necropsy presented moderate body condition, unilateral corneal opacity, drying of the muzzle, moderate jaundice, increased lobular pattern of the liver, and a distended gallbladder. Histological lesions were epithelial degeneration, necrosis, and hyperplasia of small bile ducts. Mild amounts of foamy macrophages were observed, mainly in the centroacinar zone. Diffuse swelling and vacuolation were observed in hepatocytes. Crystal negative images were found within bile ducts, foamy macrophages, and the lumen of some renal tubules. The heart showed multifocal areas of degeneration and necrosis of the muscle fibers. Pasture samples (Brachiaria decumbens) contained 2.36% of protodioscin. No Pithomyces chartarum spores were found in the pasture. Samples from a similar neighboring B. decumbens pasture grazed by cattle without photosensitization contained 1.63% of protodioscin isomers. Outbreaks of photosensitization caused by Brachiaria spp. are common in cattle in the Brazilian Cerrado (savanna) with about 51 million hectares of Brachiaria spp pastures. Sheep farming has been recently developed in this region, and the number of sheep is increasing significantly. Because sheep are more susceptible than cattle to lithogenic saponins, poisoning by Brachiaria should be an important limiting factor for the sheep industry.

• Sheep photosensitization Brachiaria decumbens protodioscin steroidal saponin cholangiopathy

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Brum K.B., Haraguchi M., Lemos R.A.A, Riet-Correa F. & Fioravanti M.C.S. 2007. Crystal-associated cholangiopathy in sheep grazing Brachiaria decumbens containing the saponin protodioscin. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(1):39-42. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, Caixa Postal 549, Campo Grande, MS 79070-900, Brazil. E-mail: kbbrum@gmail.com An outbreak of hepatogenous photosensitization is reported in a flock of 28 sheep grazing Brachiaria decumbens in Mato Grosso do Sul State, Central-Western Brazil. Seven lambs and an adult sheep were affected and 6 of them died. Two surviving affected lambs and one lamb without clinical signs had increased serum values of gamma glutamyltransferase, bilirubin, and cholesterol. In two adult unaffected sheep those parameters were within normal values. An adult sheep submitted to necropsy presented moderate body condition, unilateral corneal opacity, drying of the muzzle, moderate jaundice, increased lobular pattern of the liver, and a distended gallbladder. Histological lesions were epithelial degeneration, necrosis, and hyperplasia of small bile ducts. Mild amounts of foamy macrophages were observed, mainly in the centroacinar zone. Diffuse swelling and vacuolation were observed in hepatocytes. Crystal negative images were found within bile ducts, foamy macrophages, and the lumen of some renal tubules. The heart showed multifocal areas of degeneration and necrosis of the muscle fibers. Pasture samples (Brachiaria decumbens) contained 2.36% of protodioscin. No Pithomyces chartarum spores were found in the pasture. Samples from a similar neighboring B. decumbens pasture grazed by cattle without photosensitization contained 1.63% of protodioscin isomers. Outbreaks of photosensitization caused by Brachiaria spp. are common in cattle in the Brazilian Cerrado (savanna) with about 51 million hectares of Brachiaria spp pastures. Sheep farming has been recently developed in this region, and the number of sheep is increasing significantly. Because sheep are more susceptible than cattle to lithogenic saponins, poisoning by Brachiaria should be an important limiting factor for the sheep industry.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Amarante A.F.T., Rocha R.A. & Bricarello P.A. 2006. Relationship of intestinal histology with the resistance to Trichostrongylus colubriformis infection in three breeds of sheep. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(1):43-48. Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista (Unesp), Cx. Postal 510, Botucatu, SP 18618-000, Brazil. E-mail: amarante@ibb.unesp.br The study was carried out to evaluate the relationship of inflammatory intestinal cells with the resistance to Trichostrongylus colubriformis infections in three breeds of sheep (Santa Ines, Suffolk and Ile de France), naturally infected. Mast cells, eosinophils, and globule leucocytes were enumerated in intestinal mucosa. Histamine concentration was estimated in intestinal tissue samples and the length of male and female specimens were determined. The three breeds of sheep showed similar cellular response in the small intestine mucosa (P>0.05). There was extensive variation among sheep in the parasitological and inflammatory cell variables, even in lambs of the same breed. In general, animals presenting less inflammatory cells had a larger worm burden, higher fecal egg counts, and larger T. colubriformis worms. The inflammatory cells possibly impaired the parasite’s establishment, development, and survival.

• Sheep Trichostrongylus colubriformis resistance mast cells eosinophils

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Amarante A.F.T., Rocha R.A. & Bricarello P.A. 2006. Relationship of intestinal histology with the resistance to Trichostrongylus colubriformis infection in three breeds of sheep. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(1):43-48. Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista (Unesp), Cx. Postal 510, Botucatu, SP 18618-000, Brazil. E-mail: amarante@ibb.unesp.br The study was carried out to evaluate the relationship of inflammatory intestinal cells with the resistance to Trichostrongylus colubriformis infections in three breeds of sheep (Santa Ines, Suffolk and Ile de France), naturally infected. Mast cells, eosinophils, and globule leucocytes were enumerated in intestinal mucosa. Histamine concentration was estimated in intestinal tissue samples and the length of male and female specimens were determined. The three breeds of sheep showed similar cellular response in the small intestine mucosa (P>0.05). There was extensive variation among sheep in the parasitological and inflammatory cell variables, even in lambs of the same breed. In general, animals presenting less inflammatory cells had a larger worm burden, higher fecal egg counts, and larger T. colubriformis worms. The inflammatory cells possibly impaired the parasite’s establishment, development, and survival.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Lucioli J., Furlan F.H., Mezaroba S., Bechtold S.L., Gava A. & Traverso S.D. 2007. [Acute sodium fluorsilicate poisoning in cattle in the state of Santa Catarina.] Intoxicação aguda por fluorsilicato de sódio em bovinos no Estado de Santa Catarina. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(1):49-52. Laboratório de Patologia Animal, Departamento de Clínica e Patologia, Faculdade de Veterinária, UDESC, Avenida Luís de Camões 2090, Lages, SC 88520-000, Brazil. E-mail: a2sdt@cav.udesc.br An acute poisoning with sodium fluorsilicate in six cattle is reported, as well as the experimental reproduction by oral administration of the compound to two bovines. Clinical manifestations of the natural poisoning include muscle tremors, hypersalivation, groaning and rapid death. In the experimental poisoning lateral recumbency, dyspnea, tetanic spasms and paddling was also observed. The main necropsy findings were reddening, edema and ulceration of the ruminal and abomasal mucosa. Histopathological findings were necrosis of the epithelium of the forestomachs with polymorphonuclear infiltration of the submucosal and muscular layers. Tubular renal necrosis, liver portal necrosis and necrosis of the lymphoid tissues was also noted. The sodium fluorsilicate caused clinical signs at a dose of 300mg/kg, and death from 400mg/kg on.

• Sodium fluorsilicate poisoning cattle pathology

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Lucioli J., Furlan F.H., Mezaroba S., Bechtold S.L., Gava A. & Traverso S.D. 2007. [Acute sodium fluorsilicate poisoning in cattle in the state of Santa Catarina.] Intoxicação aguda por fluorsilicato de sódio em bovinos no Estado de Santa Catarina. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(1):49-52. Laboratório de Patologia Animal, Departamento de Clínica e Patologia, Faculdade de Veterinária, UDESC, Avenida Luís de Camões 2090, Lages, SC 88520-000, Brazil. E-mail: a2sdt@cav.udesc.br An acute poisoning with sodium fluorsilicate in six cattle is reported, as well as the experimental reproduction by oral administration of the compound to two bovines. Clinical manifestations of the natural poisoning include muscle tremors, hypersalivation, groaning and rapid death. In the experimental poisoning lateral recumbency, dyspnea, tetanic spasms and paddling was also observed. The main necropsy findings were reddening, edema and ulceration of the ruminal and abomasal mucosa. Histopathological findings were necrosis of the epithelium of the forestomachs with polymorphonuclear infiltration of the submucosal and muscular layers. Tubular renal necrosis, liver portal necrosis and necrosis of the lymphoid tissues was also noted. The sodium fluorsilicate caused clinical signs at a dose of 300mg/kg, and death from 400mg/kg on.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Barros C.S.L., Castilhos L.M.L., Rissi D.R., Kommers G.D. & Rech R.R. 2007. [Liver biopsy for the diagnosis of Senecio brasiliensis (Asteraceae) poisoning in cattle.] Biópsia hepática no diagnóstico da intoxicação por Senecio brasiliensis (Asteraceae) em bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(1):53-60. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br Liver lesions caused by Senecio spp. poisoning in cattle are progressive and deaths may occur many months after the plant is ingested. Laboratory tests of liver function are not always reliable indicators of subclinical affected animals. Liver biopsy could be useful to identify cattle with hepatic lesions but without clinical signs and would have also a prognostic value since it is generally believed that hepatic lesions will eventually cause liver failure and death. Such animals could be picked out by liver biopsy before clinical signs develop and be sent to slaughter, minimizing economic losses. This study was aimed to evaluate the liver biopsy as a diagnostic and prognostic tool in cases of Senecio spp. poisoning in cattle. An outbreak of Senecio brasiliensis was diagnosed in dairy calves which ingested hay contaminated by 5-10% of this Senecio species. Liver biopsy using a Menghini needle by right transthoracic approach was carried out in 135 calves that ingested the contaminated hay. Biopsed calves were followed up for 26 months after the biopsy. Seventeen biopsied calves had typical lesions of Senecio spp. poisoning (positive calves) and 118 had histologically normal livers (negative calves). Hepatic lesions of positive calves included fibrosis, hepatomeglocytosis, and biliary hyperplasia. Fifteen out of the 17 positive calves died with typical clinical signs of Senecio spp. poisoning within 17-149 days after the biopsy; 13 of those were necropsied and had typical gross and histopathological lesions of Senecio spp. poisoning. Two positive calves were clinically normal at the end of the post-biopsy observation period. The prognostic value (sensibility) of the test was considered high since 88.23% of the positive calves died. The specificity of the test was considered very high (99.16%) since only one of the 118 negative calves died in the observation period. In none of the biopsed calves a negative effect related to the biopsy technique was observed.

• Poisonous plants Senecio brasiliensis Asteraceae liver biopsy diseases of cattle pathology

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Barros C.S.L., Castilhos L.M.L., Rissi D.R., Kommers G.D. & Rech R.R. 2007. [Liver biopsy for the diagnosis of Senecio brasiliensis (Asteraceae) poisoning in cattle.] Biópsia hepática no diagnóstico da intoxicação por Senecio brasiliensis (Asteraceae) em bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(1):53-60. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br Liver lesions caused by Senecio spp. poisoning in cattle are progressive and deaths may occur many months after the plant is ingested. Laboratory tests of liver function are not always reliable indicators of subclinical affected animals. Liver biopsy could be useful to identify cattle with hepatic lesions but without clinical signs and would have also a prognostic value since it is generally believed that hepatic lesions will eventually cause liver failure and death. Such animals could be picked out by liver biopsy before clinical signs develop and be sent to slaughter, minimizing economic losses. This study was aimed to evaluate the liver biopsy as a diagnostic and prognostic tool in cases of Senecio spp. poisoning in cattle. An outbreak of Senecio brasiliensis was diagnosed in dairy calves which ingested hay contaminated by 5-10% of this Senecio species. Liver biopsy using a Menghini needle by right transthoracic approach was carried out in 135 calves that ingested the contaminated hay. Biopsed calves were followed up for 26 months after the biopsy. Seventeen biopsied calves had typical lesions of Senecio spp. poisoning (positive calves) and 118 had histologically normal livers (negative calves). Hepatic lesions of positive calves included fibrosis, hepatomeglocytosis, and biliary hyperplasia. Fifteen out of the 17 positive calves died with typical clinical signs of Senecio spp. poisoning within 17-149 days after the biopsy; 13 of those were necropsied and had typical gross and histopathological lesions of Senecio spp. poisoning. Two positive calves were clinically normal at the end of the post-biopsy observation period. The prognostic value (sensibility) of the test was considered high since 88.23% of the positive calves died. The specificity of the test was considered very high (99.16%) since only one of the 118 negative calves died in the observation period. In none of the biopsed calves a negative effect related to the biopsy technique was observed.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Almeida R.F.C., Madruga C.R., Soares C.O., Fernandes M.C., Carvalho N.M., Jorge K.S.G. & Osório A.L.A.R. 2006. [Specific immune response of cattle to experimental sensibilization by inactivated Mycobacterium bovis and Mycobacterium avium.] Resposta imune específica de bovinos experimentalmente sensibilizados com inóculos inativados de Mycobacterium bovis e Mycobacterium avium. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(4):195-200. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária da Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, Cidade Universitária, Campo Grande, MS 79070-900, Brazil. E-mail: analudmv@nin.ufms.br The presumptive diagnosis of bovine tuberculosis is based on analysis of the immune response to micobacterial antigens. This experimental simulation of sensibilization by Mycobacterium bovis and Mycobacterium avium in cattle aimed to verify the immune response by both the cervical comparative test and the evolution of the specific production of gamma-interferon, and also to identify interference of unspecified reactions by M. avium on the test results. The results support that the experimental animals started a response of delayed hypersensitivity to the inactivated bacilli, and that both diagnostic tests for bovine tuberculosis were efficient for the identification of animals sensitized with M. bovis and for discrimination of reactions generated by inoculation of cattle with M. avium.

• Mycobacterium bovis Mycobacterium avium gamma-interferon tuberculin immune response

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Almeida R.F.C., Madruga C.R., Soares C.O., Fernandes M.C., Carvalho N.M., Jorge K.S.G. & Osório A.L.A.R. 2006. [Specific immune response of cattle to experimental sensibilization by inactivated Mycobacterium bovis and Mycobacterium avium.] Resposta imune específica de bovinos experimentalmente sensibilizados com inóculos inativados de Mycobacterium bovis e Mycobacterium avium. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(4):195-200. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária da Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, Cidade Universitária, Campo Grande, MS 79070-900, Brazil. E-mail: analudmv@nin.ufms.br The presumptive diagnosis of bovine tuberculosis is based on analysis of the immune response to micobacterial antigens. This experimental simulation of sensibilization by Mycobacterium bovis and Mycobacterium avium in cattle aimed to verify the immune response by both the cervical comparative test and the evolution of the specific production of gamma-interferon, and also to identify interference of unspecified reactions by M. avium on the test results. The results support that the experimental animals started a response of delayed hypersensitivity to the inactivated bacilli, and that both diagnostic tests for bovine tuberculosis were efficient for the identification of animals sensitized with M. bovis and for discrimination of reactions generated by inoculation of cattle with M. avium.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Nóbrega Jr J.E., Riet-Correa F., Medeiros R.M.T. & Dantas A.F.M. 2006. [Poisoning by Sorghum halepense (Poaceae) in cattle in the Brazilian semiarid.] Intoxicação por Sorghum halepense em bovinos no semi-árido. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(4):201-204. Hospital Veterinário, CSTR, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Campus de Patos, 58700-000 Patos, PB, Brazil. E-mail: franklin.riet@pesquisador.com.br An outbreak of poisoning by Sorghum halepense (L.) Pers. in cattle in the Brazilian semiarid is reported. Nine cattle were introduced 15 days after the first rains into a paddock where the plant was sprouting and had 25-30cm high. Clinical signs of dyspnea, anxiety, muscular tremors and incoordination appeared 15 minutes after the animals began to graze. Two of them died within about 3 hours. The others recovered. Cyanotic mucosa, dark muscles, lung edema and hemorrhages, and leaves of the plant in the rumen were observed at necropsy. The plant was positive for the picrosodic paper test. S. halepense from another farm of occurrence of the poisoning was transplanted into two pots. The picrosodic paper test was performed fortnightly in the plants growing in one of them. The plant was positive for cyanide in all growth stages; during the first 45 days the test was positive within 1 minute, but after day 60 within 3 minutes. Thirty days after the plant had been transplanted into one of the pots, it was administered to a goat at a dose of 11.8g/kg, causing clinical signs of HCN poisoning. The animal recovered after the intravenous administration of 5mL/10kg body weight of a 20% sodium thiosulfate solution. In the Brazilian semiarid S. halepense is frequently found invading the border of ponds and irrigated crops, and is used as forage during the dry season.

• Poisonous plants Sorghum halepense cyanogenic glycosides plant poisoning cattle

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Nóbrega Jr J.E., Riet-Correa F., Medeiros R.M.T. & Dantas A.F.M. 2006. [Poisoning by Sorghum halepense (Poaceae) in cattle in the Brazilian semiarid.] Intoxicação por Sorghum halepense em bovinos no semi-árido. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(4):201-204. Hospital Veterinário, CSTR, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Campus de Patos, 58700-000 Patos, PB, Brazil. E-mail: franklin.riet@pesquisador.com.br An outbreak of poisoning by Sorghum halepense (L.) Pers. in cattle in the Brazilian semiarid is reported. Nine cattle were introduced 15 days after the first rains into a paddock where the plant was sprouting and had 25-30cm high. Clinical signs of dyspnea, anxiety, muscular tremors and incoordination appeared 15 minutes after the animals began to graze. Two of them died within about 3 hours. The others recovered. Cyanotic mucosa, dark muscles, lung edema and hemorrhages, and leaves of the plant in the rumen were observed at necropsy. The plant was positive for the picrosodic paper test. S. halepense from another farm of occurrence of the poisoning was transplanted into two pots. The picrosodic paper test was performed fortnightly in the plants growing in one of them. The plant was positive for cyanide in all growth stages; during the first 45 days the test was positive within 1 minute, but after day 60 within 3 minutes. Thirty days after the plant had been transplanted into one of the pots, it was administered to a goat at a dose of 11.8g/kg, causing clinical signs of HCN poisoning. The animal recovered after the intravenous administration of 5mL/10kg body weight of a 20% sodium thiosulfate solution. In the Brazilian semiarid S. halepense is frequently found invading the border of ponds and irrigated crops, and is used as forage during the dry season.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Mancini M., Rodriguez C., Prosperi C., Salinas V. & Bucco C. 2006. Main diseases of pejerrey (Odontesthes bonariensis) in central Argentina. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(4):205-210. Facultad de Agronomía y Veterinaria. Universidad Nacional de Río Cuarto, Ruta Nac. 36 Km 601, Río Cuarto (5800) Córdoba, Argentina. E-mail: mmancini@ayv.unrc.edu.ar Argentina’s central region includes an important area covered by shallow pampean lakes and dams. In these environments, fishing of pejerrey Odontesthes bonariensis Valenciennes, 1835 (Pisces, Atherinopsidae), the most important fresh-water fish of the country, is a relevant social activity and also a considerable economic resource. The main diseases found in this species were studied from 1992 to 2003 in the provinces of Córdoba, La Rioja and Santa Fe (30° and 35° S, 61° and 67° W). Most cases were registered in high temperature months. Lernaea sp and Aeromonas hydrophila were the etiological agents most frequently found. The trophic characteristics of the aquatic environments enhanced disease processes and caused massive death of O. bonariensis, due to complex hydrochemical interactions.

• Odontesthes bonariensis fish diseases pathological agents water quality

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Mancini M., Rodriguez C., Prosperi C., Salinas V. & Bucco C. 2006. Main diseases of pejerrey (Odontesthes bonariensis) in central Argentina. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(4):205-210. Facultad de Agronomía y Veterinaria. Universidad Nacional de Río Cuarto, Ruta Nac. 36 Km 601, Río Cuarto (5800) Córdoba, Argentina. E-mail: mmancini@ayv.unrc.edu.ar Argentina’s central region includes an important area covered by shallow pampean lakes and dams. In these environments, fishing of pejerrey Odontesthes bonariensis Valenciennes, 1835 (Pisces, Atherinopsidae), the most important fresh-water fish of the country, is a relevant social activity and also a considerable economic resource. The main diseases found in this species were studied from 1992 to 2003 in the provinces of Córdoba, La Rioja and Santa Fe (30° and 35° S, 61° and 67° W). Most cases were registered in high temperature months. Lernaea sp and Aeromonas hydrophila were the etiological agents most frequently found. The trophic characteristics of the aquatic environments enhanced disease processes and caused massive death of O. bonariensis, due to complex hydrochemical interactions.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Cortez A., Heinemann M.B., Castro A.M.M.G., Soares M.S, Pinto A.M.V., Alfieri A.A., Flores E.F., Leite R.C. & Richtzenhain L.J. 2006. Genetic characterization of Brazilian bovine viral diarrhea virus isolates by partial nucleotide sequencing of the 5’-UTR region. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(4):211-216. 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: leonardo@usp.br Nineteen isolates of bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) from Brazil were genetically characterized through partial nucleotide sequencing and analysis of the 5’UTR region. The isolates were grouped as BVDV-1 (11/19), BVDV-2 (6/19) or “atypical” pestivirus (2/19). Among the BVDV-1, eight isolates were classified as subgenotype BVDV-1a, whereas most (4 out of 6) BVDV-2 belonged to subgenotype 2b. Two isolates from aborted fetuses were not classified into any genetic group, being considered atypical BVDVs. Genetic diversity among Brazilian BVDV isolates may be responsible for vaccination and diag-nostic failure and therefore may influence the control strategies for BVDV infection in the country.

• BVDV-1 BVDV-2 Pestivirus phylogenetic analysis

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Cortez A., Heinemann M.B., Castro A.M.M.G., Soares M.S, Pinto A.M.V., Alfieri A.A., Flores E.F., Leite R.C. & Richtzenhain L.J. 2006. Genetic characterization of Brazilian bovine viral diarrhea virus isolates by partial nucleotide sequencing of the 5’-UTR region. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(4):211-216. 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: leonardo@usp.br Nineteen isolates of bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) from Brazil were genetically characterized through partial nucleotide sequencing and analysis of the 5’UTR region. The isolates were grouped as BVDV-1 (11/19), BVDV-2 (6/19) or “atypical” pestivirus (2/19). Among the BVDV-1, eight isolates were classified as subgenotype BVDV-1a, whereas most (4 out of 6) BVDV-2 belonged to subgenotype 2b. Two isolates from aborted fetuses were not classified into any genetic group, being considered atypical BVDVs. Genetic diversity among Brazilian BVDV isolates may be responsible for vaccination and diag-nostic failure and therefore may influence the control strategies for BVDV infection in the country.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Monteiro L.A.R.C., Pellegrin A.O., Ishikawa M.M. & Osório A.L.A.R. 2006. [Epidemiological investigation of bovine brucellosis in an extract of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil.] Investigação epidemiológica da brucelose bovina em um estrato do Estado de Mato Grosso do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(4):217-222. Programa Mestrado em Ciência Animal, Universidade Federal do Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande, MS 79070-900, Brazil. E-mail: leticiacmonteiro@yahoo.com.br The study aimed to estimate the prevalence of bovine brucellosis in 22 counties which make up the region Extract 1 of the State of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil, in order to identify risk factors associated with the infection. The sample region encompasses an area of 70,214.1 km² and represents 19.7% of the State. The region studied has about 5.7 million head of cattle, corresponding to 23% of the total of 24.9 million cattle in the State of Mato Grosso do Sul. On 210 farms, between December 2003 and March 2004, 2,376 blood samples were collected from cows, aged 24 months or older, for serial diagnostic tests. Screening through the buffered acidified antigen test was confirmed by the 2-mercaptoetanol test. On the occasion of sample collection a questionnaire with information related to identification, kind of cattle and management practices was filled out. In individual animals the real prevalence was estimated at 5.6%, and in the cattle herds at 37.3%. The variables, which presented association through odds ratio (OR), univariate analysis and 95% confidence interval (CI) with serum positivity for brucellosis, were: the exploration of beef cattle (OR = 2.82, 95% CI = 1.49-5.34), Zebu breed (OR = 2.62, 95% CI = 1.40-4.88) and abortion (OR = 1.83, 95% CI = 1.01-3.33). The results shown here demonstrate, despite the prevalence of brucellosis in the extract of Mato Grosso do Sul studied, that the control of the disease may depend on adoption of a program focusing upon the exploration of beef cattle, the Zebu breed and the occurrence of abortion.

• Brucellosis cattle epidemiology seroprevalence

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Monteiro L.A.R.C., Pellegrin A.O., Ishikawa M.M. & Osório A.L.A.R. 2006. [Epidemiological investigation of bovine brucellosis in an extract of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil.] Investigação epidemiológica da brucelose bovina em um estrato do Estado de Mato Grosso do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(4):217-222. Programa Mestrado em Ciência Animal, Universidade Federal do Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande, MS 79070-900, Brazil. E-mail: leticiacmonteiro@yahoo.com.br The study aimed to estimate the prevalence of bovine brucellosis in 22 counties which make up the region Extract 1 of the State of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil, in order to identify risk factors associated with the infection. The sample region encompasses an area of 70,214.1 km² and represents 19.7% of the State. The region studied has about 5.7 million head of cattle, corresponding to 23% of the total of 24.9 million cattle in the State of Mato Grosso do Sul. On 210 farms, between December 2003 and March 2004, 2,376 blood samples were collected from cows, aged 24 months or older, for serial diagnostic tests. Screening through the buffered acidified antigen test was confirmed by the 2-mercaptoetanol test. On the occasion of sample collection a questionnaire with information related to identification, kind of cattle and management practices was filled out. In individual animals the real prevalence was estimated at 5.6%, and in the cattle herds at 37.3%. The variables, which presented association through odds ratio (OR), univariate analysis and 95% confidence interval (CI) with serum positivity for brucellosis, were: the exploration of beef cattle (OR = 2.82, 95% CI = 1.49-5.34), Zebu breed (OR = 2.62, 95% CI = 1.40-4.88) and abortion (OR = 1.83, 95% CI = 1.01-3.33). The results shown here demonstrate, despite the prevalence of brucellosis in the extract of Mato Grosso do Sul studied, that the control of the disease may depend on adoption of a program focusing upon the exploration of beef cattle, the Zebu breed and the occurrence of abortion.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Silva D.M., Riet-Correa F., Medeiros R.M.T. & Oliveira O.F. 2006. [Toxic plants for livestock in the western and eastern Seridó, state of Rio Grande do Norte, in the Brazilian semiarid.] Plantas tóxicas para ruminantes no Seridó Ocidental e Oriental do Rio Grande do Norte. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(4):223-236. Hospital Veterinário, CSTR, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Campus de Patos, 58700-000 Patos, PB, Brazil. E-mail: franklin.riet@pesquisador.com.br To determine the occurrence of plant poisoning in the Western and Eastern Seridó regions of the state of Rio Grande do Norte, 82 persons including farmers, agronomists and veterinarians were interviewed. The two more important toxic plants are Ipomoea asarifolia, which causes nervous signs in sheep, goats and cattle, and Aspidosperma pyrifolium, leading to abortion in goats, sheep and cattle. The abortive properties of this plant had been demonstrated experimentally in goats, but not in sheep and cattle. Some farmers mentioned the poisoning by A. pyrifolium as a cause of nervous signs in equidae and cattle. Poisoning by cyanogenic plants including Manihot spp, Anadenanthera colubrina var. cebil (=Piptadenia macrocarpa), Sorghum bicolor and Sorghum halepense are important in the region. Important is also poisoning by Prosopis juliflora in cattle and with less frequency in goats, poisoning by Crotalaria retusa in horses, sheep and cattle, and by Mascagnia rigida in cattle. Poisoning by Brachiaria decumbens and Enterolobium contortisiliquum is sporadic. Other less important toxic plants in the region are Indigofera suffruticosa, Ipomoea carnea, and Ricinus communis. Some farmers reported poisoning by Marsdenia sp affecting sheep and cattle, and also a group of swine fed with the roots of the plant; the leaves and the roots are experimentally toxic to ruminants causing nervous signs, without histologic lesions. Another poisoning demonstrated experimentally is caused by Tephrosia cinerea and results in ascitis with hepatic fibrosis in sheep. Six farmers reported poisoning by Nerium oleander, always in cattle that had access to the shrub after been cut, mixed or not with other plants. Farmers mentioned also poisoning by other plants with unknown toxicity, including Paullinia sp, Passiflora sp, Dalechampia sp, Portulaca oleracea, Luffa acutangula, Cereus sp, Leersia hexandra, and Stemodia maritima. Echinochloa polystachya and Pennisetum purpureum, which cause nitrite poisoning were mentioned by some farmers as cause of cattle mortalities. One farmer mentioned an outbreak of poisoning in cattle and goats by Dieffenbachia picta which had been cut and left to the animals.

• Toxic plants ruminants semiarid region Rio Grande do Norte

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Silva D.M., Riet-Correa F., Medeiros R.M.T. & Oliveira O.F. 2006. [Toxic plants for livestock in the western and eastern Seridó, state of Rio Grande do Norte, in the Brazilian semiarid.] Plantas tóxicas para ruminantes no Seridó Ocidental e Oriental do Rio Grande do Norte. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(4):223-236. Hospital Veterinário, CSTR, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Campus de Patos, 58700-000 Patos, PB, Brazil. E-mail: franklin.riet@pesquisador.com.br To determine the occurrence of plant poisoning in the Western and Eastern Seridó regions of the state of Rio Grande do Norte, 82 persons including farmers, agronomists and veterinarians were interviewed. The two more important toxic plants are Ipomoea asarifolia, which causes nervous signs in sheep, goats and cattle, and Aspidosperma pyrifolium, leading to abortion in goats, sheep and cattle. The abortive properties of this plant had been demonstrated experimentally in goats, but not in sheep and cattle. Some farmers mentioned the poisoning by A. pyrifolium as a cause of nervous signs in equidae and cattle. Poisoning by cyanogenic plants including Manihot spp, Anadenanthera colubrina var. cebil (=Piptadenia macrocarpa), Sorghum bicolor and Sorghum halepense are important in the region. Important is also poisoning by Prosopis juliflora in cattle and with less frequency in goats, poisoning by Crotalaria retusa in horses, sheep and cattle, and by Mascagnia rigida in cattle. Poisoning by Brachiaria decumbens and Enterolobium contortisiliquum is sporadic. Other less important toxic plants in the region are Indigofera suffruticosa, Ipomoea carnea, and Ricinus communis. Some farmers reported poisoning by Marsdenia sp affecting sheep and cattle, and also a group of swine fed with the roots of the plant; the leaves and the roots are experimentally toxic to ruminants causing nervous signs, without histologic lesions. Another poisoning demonstrated experimentally is caused by Tephrosia cinerea and results in ascitis with hepatic fibrosis in sheep. Six farmers reported poisoning by Nerium oleander, always in cattle that had access to the shrub after been cut, mixed or not with other plants. Farmers mentioned also poisoning by other plants with unknown toxicity, including Paullinia sp, Passiflora sp, Dalechampia sp, Portulaca oleracea, Luffa acutangula, Cereus sp, Leersia hexandra, and Stemodia maritima. Echinochloa polystachya and Pennisetum purpureum, which cause nitrite poisoning were mentioned by some farmers as cause of cattle mortalities. One farmer mentioned an outbreak of poisoning in cattle and goats by Dieffenbachia picta which had been cut and left to the animals.