PESQUISA VETERINÁRIA BRASILEIRA

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Alves F.R., Costa F.B., Arouche M.M.S., Barros A.C.E., Miglino M.A., Vulcano L.C. & Guerra P.C. 2007. [Ultrasonographic evaluation of the urinary system, liver and uterus of Cebus apella monkey.] Avaliação ultra-sonográfica do sistema urinário, fígado e útero do macaco-prego, Cebus apella. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(9):377-382. Departamento de Cirurgia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, São Paulo, SP 05508-270, Brazil. E-mail: flaviovet@usp.br The Brown Capuchin, Cebus apella, has a wide distribution in the northern and southern Brazilian Amazon region and in the Cerrado (savanna). These monkeys are usually submitted to predatory chase, increasing the need for preservation of this wild animal species. An ultrasonographic examination of 10 Brown Capuchins was made in order to describe the normal ultrasonographic anatomy of their abdominal cavity. The urinary bladder revealed its wall thickness with an average of 0.2cm, the topographic situation of which allowed close relation with the wall of uterus and descendent colon. Using caudal abdominal scan, images of aorta, caudal vena cava and right iliac vein were obtained. Liver was accessible for examination by sagittal and cross-section ultrasound, allowing visualization of gallbladder and hepatic vessels. Renal scan allowed accuracy to evidence the echogenicity differences between pelvis, renal sinus, as well as the cortical-medullary relationship. The mean length of the kidneys was 6.24±0.31cm, and no significant differences were observed between left and right kidney length (Student’s t-test and ANOVA). The renal volume obtained was 2.37±0.18cm3. Correlation Coefficients of Pearson between right and left renal length and between right and left renal volume were r = 0.74 and 0.51. Mean thickness for cortical and medullar regions was 0.75±0.11 and 0.39±0.06cm, respectively. Correlation Coefficient of corticomedullar relation between right and left renal was r = 0.19. Examination by ultrasound was considered an efficient, non-invasive, fast and repeatable technique which provides useful data for clinicians and surgeons engaged in wild animal medicine.

• Cebus apella Brown Capuchin ultrasound wild animals Amazon

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Alves F.R., Costa F.B., Arouche M.M.S., Barros A.C.E., Miglino M.A., Vulcano L.C. & Guerra P.C. 2007. [Ultrasonographic evaluation of the urinary system, liver and uterus of Cebus apella monkey.] Avaliação ultra-sonográfica do sistema urinário, fígado e útero do macaco-prego, Cebus apella. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(9):377-382. Departamento de Cirurgia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, São Paulo, SP 05508-270, Brazil. E-mail: flaviovet@usp.br The Brown Capuchin, Cebus apella, has a wide distribution in the northern and southern Brazilian Amazon region and in the Cerrado (savanna). These monkeys are usually submitted to predatory chase, increasing the need for preservation of this wild animal species. An ultrasonographic examination of 10 Brown Capuchins was made in order to describe the normal ultrasonographic anatomy of their abdominal cavity. The urinary bladder revealed its wall thickness with an average of 0.2cm, the topographic situation of which allowed close relation with the wall of uterus and descendent colon. Using caudal abdominal scan, images of aorta, caudal vena cava and right iliac vein were obtained. Liver was accessible for examination by sagittal and cross-section ultrasound, allowing visualization of gallbladder and hepatic vessels. Renal scan allowed accuracy to evidence the echogenicity differences between pelvis, renal sinus, as well as the cortical-medullary relationship. The mean length of the kidneys was 6.24±0.31cm, and no significant differences were observed between left and right kidney length (Student’s t-test and ANOVA). The renal volume obtained was 2.37±0.18cm3. Correlation Coefficients of Pearson between right and left renal length and between right and left renal volume were r = 0.74 and 0.51. Mean thickness for cortical and medullar regions was 0.75±0.11 and 0.39±0.06cm, respectively. Correlation Coefficient of corticomedullar relation between right and left renal was r = 0.19. Examination by ultrasound was considered an efficient, non-invasive, fast and repeatable technique which provides useful data for clinicians and surgeons engaged in wild animal medicine.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Faleiros R.R., Macoris D.G., Alves G.E.S., Saquetti C.H.C. & Alessi A.C. 2007. [Histomorphometric and ultrastructural evaluation of the mucosa of the equine small colon subjected to distention.] Avaliação histomorfométrica e ultra-estrutural da mucosa do cólon menor eqüino submetido à distensão. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(9):383-387. Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia Veterinária, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Campus de Jaboticabal, Rodovia Carlos Tonanni Km 5, Jaboticabal, SP 14870-000, Brazil. E-mail: faleiros@ufmg.br Recently it has been shown that experimental distention of the small colon of horses promotes reduction of microvascular circulation and inflammation of the seromuscular layer associated with neutrophil accumulation in the lungs. However this model was not sufficient to induce evident histophatological changes in the mucosal layer. The aim of this study was to evaluate the mucosa subjected to that model of small colon distention by histomorphometry and scan electronic microscopy (SEM). Sixteen horses were used. In the distended group (DG), nine of them were subjected to distention of the small colon by a surgically implanted intraluminal balloon that was inflated with a pressure of 40mm Hg during 4 hours. In the sham-operated group (SG), the balloon was implanted but not inflated. Full-thickness intestinal samples were collected before and after obstruction and after 1.5 and 12 hours of decom-pression. By SEM, it was observed that the mucosa turned flat and smooth after distention and returned to the wrinkled original appearance after decompression. Twelve hours after decompression the mucosa had a more irregular appearance with points of fragmentation. There was a reduction in mucosa thickness after distention, returning to basal values after decompression. Instead of the fact that there were changes in appearance and thickness, it was concluded that the mucosa could borne up the compression caused by distention returning to the original characteristics without major lesions.

• Small colon intestinal distention colic horse

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Faleiros R.R., Macoris D.G., Alves G.E.S., Saquetti C.H.C. & Alessi A.C. 2007. [Histomorphometric and ultrastructural evaluation of the mucosa of the equine small colon subjected to distention.] Avaliação histomorfométrica e ultra-estrutural da mucosa do cólon menor eqüino submetido à distensão. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(9):383-387. Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia Veterinária, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Campus de Jaboticabal, Rodovia Carlos Tonanni Km 5, Jaboticabal, SP 14870-000, Brazil. E-mail: faleiros@ufmg.br Recently it has been shown that experimental distention of the small colon of horses promotes reduction of microvascular circulation and inflammation of the seromuscular layer associated with neutrophil accumulation in the lungs. However this model was not sufficient to induce evident histophatological changes in the mucosal layer. The aim of this study was to evaluate the mucosa subjected to that model of small colon distention by histomorphometry and scan electronic microscopy (SEM). Sixteen horses were used. In the distended group (DG), nine of them were subjected to distention of the small colon by a surgically implanted intraluminal balloon that was inflated with a pressure of 40mm Hg during 4 hours. In the sham-operated group (SG), the balloon was implanted but not inflated. Full-thickness intestinal samples were collected before and after obstruction and after 1.5 and 12 hours of decom-pression. By SEM, it was observed that the mucosa turned flat and smooth after distention and returned to the wrinkled original appearance after decompression. Twelve hours after decompression the mucosa had a more irregular appearance with points of fragmentation. There was a reduction in mucosa thickness after distention, returning to basal values after decompression. Instead of the fact that there were changes in appearance and thickness, it was concluded that the mucosa could borne up the compression caused by distention returning to the original characteristics without major lesions.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Macêdo J.T.S.A., Riet-Correa F., Simões S.V.D., Dantas A.F.M. & Nobre V.M.T. 2007. [Malignant catarrhal fever in cattle in Paraíba, northeastern Brazil.] Febre catarral maligna em bovinos na Paraíba. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(7):277-281. Hospital Veterinário, CSTR, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Campus de Patos, 58700-000 Patos, PB, Brazil. E-mail: franklin.riet@pesquisador.cnpq.br Six cases of malignant catarrhal fever (MCF) observed from 2000 to 2005, and one outbreak occurred from 1986 to 1987 are reported in the state of Paraíba, northeastern Brazil. In one case the disease was diagnosed clinically and in 5 cases also by histopathology consisting of diffuse vasculitis with fibrinoid degeneration and perivascular infiltration of mononuclear cells in many organs. In 5 cases only one cattle was affected, and in one, 2 out of 6 cattle were affected. Five cases occurred from May to August, at the end of the raining season during the lambing season. Clinical signs and pathology were characteristics of the disease. Four cattle died after a clinical manifestation period of 5-8 days, another was euthanized after 40 days, and another recovered. The outbreak reported in the municipality of Taperoá occurred from August 1986 to December 1987, with a morbidity rate of 8.22% and a fatality rate of 100%. The disease occurred after the introduction of a ram in the farm. The outbreak was controlled after the slaughter of all sheep in the farm. These results demonstrated that MCF is endemic in Paraíba, and outbreaks with high morbidity and fatality rates can also occur. As it was previously reported in the state of Rio Grande do Sul few affected cattle can recovered. Because the 6 cases of MCF represent 3.1% of the 190 cases of different diseases diagnosed by the Veterinary Hospital from 2000 to 2005, it can be estimated that the disease affects 0.125% of cattle population in the state of Paraíba.

• Malignant catarrhal fever vasculitis diseases of cattle viral diseases semiarid

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Macêdo J.T.S.A., Riet-Correa F., Simões S.V.D., Dantas A.F.M. & Nobre V.M.T. 2007. [Malignant catarrhal fever in cattle in Paraíba, northeastern Brazil.] Febre catarral maligna em bovinos na Paraíba. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(7):277-281. Hospital Veterinário, CSTR, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Campus de Patos, 58700-000 Patos, PB, Brazil. E-mail: franklin.riet@pesquisador.cnpq.br Six cases of malignant catarrhal fever (MCF) observed from 2000 to 2005, and one outbreak occurred from 1986 to 1987 are reported in the state of Paraíba, northeastern Brazil. In one case the disease was diagnosed clinically and in 5 cases also by histopathology consisting of diffuse vasculitis with fibrinoid degeneration and perivascular infiltration of mononuclear cells in many organs. In 5 cases only one cattle was affected, and in one, 2 out of 6 cattle were affected. Five cases occurred from May to August, at the end of the raining season during the lambing season. Clinical signs and pathology were characteristics of the disease. Four cattle died after a clinical manifestation period of 5-8 days, another was euthanized after 40 days, and another recovered. The outbreak reported in the municipality of Taperoá occurred from August 1986 to December 1987, with a morbidity rate of 8.22% and a fatality rate of 100%. The disease occurred after the introduction of a ram in the farm. The outbreak was controlled after the slaughter of all sheep in the farm. These results demonstrated that MCF is endemic in Paraíba, and outbreaks with high morbidity and fatality rates can also occur. As it was previously reported in the state of Rio Grande do Sul few affected cattle can recovered. Because the 6 cases of MCF represent 3.1% of the 190 cases of different diseases diagnosed by the Veterinary Hospital from 2000 to 2005, it can be estimated that the disease affects 0.125% of cattle population in the state of Paraíba.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Machado T.F.S., Ferrigno C.R.A., Stopiglia A.J. & Pinto A.C.B.C.F. 2007. [Anatomic features of the dorsal venous sinus in skull of brachycephalous dogs.] Revisão anatômica do seio venoso sagital dorsal no crânio de cães braquicéfalos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(5):194-198. Departamento de Cirurgia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, São Paulo, SP 05508-900, Brazil. E-mail: tfsm@usp.br The dorsal venous sinuses of the Dura mater perform the cerebral and spinal cord drainage to keep homeostasis of the Central Nervous System. Injuries in the cerebral venous network may cause severe deficits, including hemiplegia, hemorrhage, coma and death. The main landmark for neurologic surgery is the Dura mater venous sinus. The aim of this study is to analyse the pathway of the Sinus sagittalis dorsalis in the brachycephalous skull, as the brachycephalous dogs have specific characteristics. The skulls were taken from 8 Boxer dogs and venous perfusion with latex and barium sulfate solution was performed. After the perfusion, radiographies and tomographies were obtained to relate the dorsal sagittal sinus and the skull averages. The cephalic index showed mean values of 91.24±8.34cm, and the cranio-facial index was 2.89±0.23cm. The venous sinus mensuration interface to the skull was: Área = 10.18±4.69mm2; D1 = 11.84±2.35mm; D2 = 19.57±2.61mm; D3 = 17.88±2.31mm; D4 = 25.32±5.68mm e D5 = 24.84±4.40mm.

• Brachycephalous dorsal venous sinus brain vasculature

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Machado T.F.S., Ferrigno C.R.A., Stopiglia A.J. & Pinto A.C.B.C.F. 2007. [Anatomic features of the dorsal venous sinus in skull of brachycephalous dogs.] Revisão anatômica do seio venoso sagital dorsal no crânio de cães braquicéfalos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(5):194-198. Departamento de Cirurgia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, São Paulo, SP 05508-900, Brazil. E-mail: tfsm@usp.br The dorsal venous sinuses of the Dura mater perform the cerebral and spinal cord drainage to keep homeostasis of the Central Nervous System. Injuries in the cerebral venous network may cause severe deficits, including hemiplegia, hemorrhage, coma and death. The main landmark for neurologic surgery is the Dura mater venous sinus. The aim of this study is to analyse the pathway of the Sinus sagittalis dorsalis in the brachycephalous skull, as the brachycephalous dogs have specific characteristics. The skulls were taken from 8 Boxer dogs and venous perfusion with latex and barium sulfate solution was performed. After the perfusion, radiographies and tomographies were obtained to relate the dorsal sagittal sinus and the skull averages. The cephalic index showed mean values of 91.24±8.34cm, and the cranio-facial index was 2.89±0.23cm. The venous sinus mensuration interface to the skull was: Área = 10.18±4.69mm2; D1 = 11.84±2.35mm; D2 = 19.57±2.61mm; D3 = 17.88±2.31mm; D4 = 25.32±5.68mm e D5 = 24.84±4.40mm.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Baldani C.D., Machado R.Z., Raso T.F. & Pinto A.A. 2007. Serodiagnosis of Babesia equi in horses submitted to exercise stress. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira27(4):179-183. Departamento de Patologia Veterinária, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Via de Acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane s/n, Jaboticabal, SP 14870-000, Brazil. E-mail: zacarias@fcav.unesp.br A complement fixation test (CFT), performed in microtitre plates, based upon the use of crude antigenic preparation of Babesia equi was adapted for the detection of antibodies in serum of infected horses. The indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) were also used for the immunodiagnosis of B. equi. Serum samples from 15 apparently healthy horses, previously conditioned to a high-speed equine treadmill, were taken before and after exercise. All the samples analyzed were positive for B. equi infection. There were no significant differences (P<0.01) between these 3 tests, or the condition of rest or stress. The combined use of CFT and IFAT or ELISA should be recommended in order to enable veterinary services to more efficiently prevent introduction of infected horses into disease-free areas.

• Babesia equi diagnosis complement fixation indirect fluorescent antibody test enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Baldani C.D., Machado R.Z., Raso T.F. & Pinto A.A. 2007. Serodiagnosis of Babesia equi in horses submitted to exercise stress. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira27(4):179-183. Departamento de Patologia Veterinária, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Via de Acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane s/n, Jaboticabal, SP 14870-000, Brazil. E-mail: zacarias@fcav.unesp.br A complement fixation test (CFT), performed in microtitre plates, based upon the use of crude antigenic preparation of Babesia equi was adapted for the detection of antibodies in serum of infected horses. The indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) were also used for the immunodiagnosis of B. equi. Serum samples from 15 apparently healthy horses, previously conditioned to a high-speed equine treadmill, were taken before and after exercise. All the samples analyzed were positive for B. equi infection. There were no significant differences (P<0.01) between these 3 tests, or the condition of rest or stress. The combined use of CFT and IFAT or ELISA should be recommended in order to enable veterinary services to more efficiently prevent introduction of infected horses into disease-free areas.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Pimentel L.A., Riet-Correa F., Guedes K.M., Macêdo J.T.S.A., Medeiros R.M.T. & Dantas A.F.M. 2007. [Primary photosensitization in equidae and ruminants in the Brazilian semi-arid caused by Froelichia humboldtiana (Amaranthaceae).] Fotossensibilização primária em eqüídeos e ruminantes no semi-árido causada por Froelichia humboldtiana (Amaranthaceae). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(1):23-28. Hospital Veterinário, CSTR, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Campus de Patos, Patos, PB 58708-110, Brazil. E-mail: franklin.riet@pesquisador.com.br Photosensitization is common in the Brazilian semiarid, affecting mainly horses, but also donkeys, mules, sheep and cattle. The dermatitis affects mainly non pigmented skin, and the animals recover after being withdrawn from the pastures. To demonstrate the etiology of the disease, Froelichia humboldtiana (Roem. et Schult.) Seub., collected in the field one or two times a week and kept in the refrigerator for 1-4 days, was administered for 30 or more days as the only food ad libitum to 2 donkeys and one white sheep, and as the only forage ad libitum, to one white horse. No clinical signs were observed in those animals, and serum activities of aspartate-aminotransferase (AST), alanine-aminotransferase (AST), and gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT) were within normal ranges. In another experiment, one sheep was tied by a rope, during the day, in a pasture of exclusively F. humboldtiana for a 26 days period. Skin lesions characteristic of photosensitization appeared 4-5 days after the start of the experiment and became severe until day 26. After the withdrawal of the animal from the pasture on day 26 it fully recovered within 30 days. In another experiment, 4 sheep were tied by ropes in the same pasture, during the day, for a 29 days period. Another 4 control sheep were maintained in a neighboring pasture without F. humboldtiana. Skin lesions characteristic of photosensitization were observed after 11-25 days of F. humboldtiana grazing. Serum activities of AST and GGT, and serum levels of bilirubin were within normal ranges. At the end of the 29 days grazing F. humboldtiana, 2 sheep were euthanized, and 2 were withdrawn from the pastures. No gross or histologic liver lesions were observed on the 2 sheep euthanized; the other 2 sheep recovered within 17 and 20 days after the end of grazing. One mare and its foal grazed in the same pasture during 44 days. The mare that had a pigmented skin had no dermatitis, but the foal showed dermatitis on the white areas of the skin after 25 days of grazing. The two horses were withdrawn from the pastures after 44 days grazing, and the foal fully recovered within 15 days. These experiments indicate that F. humboldtiana causes primary photosensitization in domestic animals. The absence of lesions in animals ingesting the plant collected in the field and kept refrigerated suggests that F. humboldtiana lost toxicity after collection. The absence of lesions in the eyes of affected animal, which are characteristic of primary photosensitization caused by furocoumarins containing plants, suggests that F. humboldtiana contains a naphthodianthrone derivate, similar to those found in Fagopyrum esculentum and Hypericum perforatum which do not cause eye lesions.

• Primary photosensitization Froelichia humboldtiana Amaranthaceae equidae ruminants dermatitis

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Pimentel L.A., Riet-Correa F., Guedes K.M., Macêdo J.T.S.A., Medeiros R.M.T. & Dantas A.F.M. 2007. [Primary photosensitization in equidae and ruminants in the Brazilian semi-arid caused by Froelichia humboldtiana (Amaranthaceae).] Fotossensibilização primária em eqüídeos e ruminantes no semi-árido causada por Froelichia humboldtiana (Amaranthaceae). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(1):23-28. Hospital Veterinário, CSTR, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Campus de Patos, Patos, PB 58708-110, Brazil. E-mail: franklin.riet@pesquisador.com.br Photosensitization is common in the Brazilian semiarid, affecting mainly horses, but also donkeys, mules, sheep and cattle. The dermatitis affects mainly non pigmented skin, and the animals recover after being withdrawn from the pastures. To demonstrate the etiology of the disease, Froelichia humboldtiana (Roem. et Schult.) Seub., collected in the field one or two times a week and kept in the refrigerator for 1-4 days, was administered for 30 or more days as the only food ad libitum to 2 donkeys and one white sheep, and as the only forage ad libitum, to one white horse. No clinical signs were observed in those animals, and serum activities of aspartate-aminotransferase (AST), alanine-aminotransferase (AST), and gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT) were within normal ranges. In another experiment, one sheep was tied by a rope, during the day, in a pasture of exclusively F. humboldtiana for a 26 days period. Skin lesions characteristic of photosensitization appeared 4-5 days after the start of the experiment and became severe until day 26. After the withdrawal of the animal from the pasture on day 26 it fully recovered within 30 days. In another experiment, 4 sheep were tied by ropes in the same pasture, during the day, for a 29 days period. Another 4 control sheep were maintained in a neighboring pasture without F. humboldtiana. Skin lesions characteristic of photosensitization were observed after 11-25 days of F. humboldtiana grazing. Serum activities of AST and GGT, and serum levels of bilirubin were within normal ranges. At the end of the 29 days grazing F. humboldtiana, 2 sheep were euthanized, and 2 were withdrawn from the pastures. No gross or histologic liver lesions were observed on the 2 sheep euthanized; the other 2 sheep recovered within 17 and 20 days after the end of grazing. One mare and its foal grazed in the same pasture during 44 days. The mare that had a pigmented skin had no dermatitis, but the foal showed dermatitis on the white areas of the skin after 25 days of grazing. The two horses were withdrawn from the pastures after 44 days grazing, and the foal fully recovered within 15 days. These experiments indicate that F. humboldtiana causes primary photosensitization in domestic animals. The absence of lesions in animals ingesting the plant collected in the field and kept refrigerated suggests that F. humboldtiana lost toxicity after collection. The absence of lesions in the eyes of affected animal, which are characteristic of primary photosensitization caused by furocoumarins containing plants, suggests that F. humboldtiana contains a naphthodianthrone derivate, similar to those found in Fagopyrum esculentum and Hypericum perforatum which do not cause eye lesions.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Costa M.M., Machado S.A., Krewer C.C., Ilha M.R.S., Graça D.L., Guaraldi A.L.M. & Vargas A.C. 2006. Pathogenicity of Rhodococcus equi in mice, isolated from environment, human and horse clinical samples. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(3):167-170. Laboratório de Bacteriologia, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Centro de Ciências Rurais, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Avenida Roraima 1000, Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil. E-mail: agueda@ccr.ufsm.br Rhodococcus equi is a facultative intracellular pathogen associated with bronchopneumonia, mesenteric lymphadenitis and enterocolitis in foals. Although R. equi is likely to be found in every horse-breeding farm, the clinical disease is unrecognized in most of them. Capsule components, equi factor, micolic acid and some products encoded by the large 85-90Kb plasmid were described as virulence factors. However, the pathogenesis of R. equi infections and the sensibility of foals are not completely understood. The aim of this study was evaluate the virulence of R. equi isolated from human, horses and environment for mices. Nine strains carrying the 85-90Kb plasmid isolated from foal clinical specimens, one from immunodeficient human patient and six plasmidless strains (four isolated from feces, one from pasture and one from immunodeficient human patient) were inoculated in cyclophosphamide immunossuppressed mice. The pathological changes and viability of R. equi cells in the liver of mice was verified after the 3rd, 6th an 10th day after inoculation for horse and environmental isolates and for R. equi isolates from human patients on the 1st, 3rd and 6th day. During the necropsy procedures, infiltrate of macrophages and pyogranulomatous lesions were detected after the sixth pos-inoculation day in the liver and spleen. In horse isolates, only plasmid positive strains were virulent, but in human isolates both strains (plasmid positive e plasmid negative) were virulent. Both groups of the immunossupressed mice inoculated with R. equi isolated from environment showed pathological changes. All R. equi strains were unable to kill non imunossuppressed mice.

• Rhodococcus equi mice virulence cyclophosphamide

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Costa M.M., Machado S.A., Krewer C.C., Ilha M.R.S., Graça D.L., Guaraldi A.L.M. & Vargas A.C. 2006. Pathogenicity of Rhodococcus equi in mice, isolated from environment, human and horse clinical samples. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(3):167-170. Laboratório de Bacteriologia, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Centro de Ciências Rurais, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Avenida Roraima 1000, Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil. E-mail: agueda@ccr.ufsm.br Rhodococcus equi is a facultative intracellular pathogen associated with bronchopneumonia, mesenteric lymphadenitis and enterocolitis in foals. Although R. equi is likely to be found in every horse-breeding farm, the clinical disease is unrecognized in most of them. Capsule components, equi factor, micolic acid and some products encoded by the large 85-90Kb plasmid were described as virulence factors. However, the pathogenesis of R. equi infections and the sensibility of foals are not completely understood. The aim of this study was evaluate the virulence of R. equi isolated from human, horses and environment for mices. Nine strains carrying the 85-90Kb plasmid isolated from foal clinical specimens, one from immunodeficient human patient and six plasmidless strains (four isolated from feces, one from pasture and one from immunodeficient human patient) were inoculated in cyclophosphamide immunossuppressed mice. The pathological changes and viability of R. equi cells in the liver of mice was verified after the 3rd, 6th an 10th day after inoculation for horse and environmental isolates and for R. equi isolates from human patients on the 1st, 3rd and 6th day. During the necropsy procedures, infiltrate of macrophages and pyogranulomatous lesions were detected after the sixth pos-inoculation day in the liver and spleen. In horse isolates, only plasmid positive strains were virulent, but in human isolates both strains (plasmid positive e plasmid negative) were virulent. Both groups of the immunossupressed mice inoculated with R. equi isolated from environment showed pathological changes. All R. equi strains were unable to kill non imunossuppressed mice.

Abstract in English:

Caron L., Brum M.C.S., Moraes M.P., Golde W.T., Arns C.W. & Grubman M.J. 2005. Granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor does not increase the potency or efficacy of a foot-and-mouth disease virus subunit vaccine. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(3):150-158. USDA, ARS, PIADC-FMD Research Unit, PO.Box 848, Greenport, NY 11944 0848, USA. E-mail: mgrubman@piadc.ars.usda.gov Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is one of the most feared diseases of livestock worldwide. Vaccination has been a very effective weapon in controlling the disease, however a number of concerns with the current vaccine including the inability of approved diagnostic tests to reliably distinguish vaccinated from infected animals and the need for high containment facilities for vaccine production, have limited its use during outbreaks in countries previously free of the disease. A number of FMD vaccine candidates have been tested and a replication-defective human adenovirus type 5 (Ad5) vector containing the FMDV capsid (P1-2A) and 3C protease coding regions has been shown to completely protect pigs against challenge with the homologous virus (FMDV A12 and A24). An Ad5-P1-2A+3C vaccine for FMDV O1 Campos (Ad5-O1C), however, only induced a low FMDV-specific neutralizing antibody response in swine potency tests. Granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) has been successfully used to stimulate the immune response in vaccine formulations against a number of diseases, including HIV, hepatitis C and B. To attempt to improve the FMDV-specific immune response induced by Ad5-O1C, we inoculated swine with Ad5-O1C and an Ad5 vector containing the gene for porcine GM-CSF (pGM-CSF). However, in the conditions used in this trial, pGM-CSF did not improve the immune response to Ad5-O1C and adversely affected the level of protection of swine challenged with homologous FMDV.

• Foot-and-mouth disease virus O1 Campos Adenovirus Granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor.

Abstract in Portuguese:

Caron L., Brum M.C.S., Moraes M.P., Golde W.T., Arns C.W. & Grubman M.J. 2005. Granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor does not increase the potency or efficacy of a foot-and-mouth disease virus subunit vaccine. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(3):150-158. USDA, ARS, PIADC-FMD Research Unit, PO.Box 848, Greenport, NY 11944 0848, USA. E-mail: mgrubman@piadc.ars.usda.gov Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is one of the most feared diseases of livestock worldwide. Vaccination has been a very effective weapon in controlling the disease, however a number of concerns with the current vaccine including the inability of approved diagnostic tests to reliably distinguish vaccinated from infected animals and the need for high containment facilities for vaccine production, have limited its use during outbreaks in countries previously free of the disease. A number of FMD vaccine candidates have been tested and a replication-defective human adenovirus type 5 (Ad5) vector containing the FMDV capsid (P1-2A) and 3C protease coding regions has been shown to completely protect pigs against challenge with the homologous virus (FMDV A12 and A24). An Ad5-P1-2A+3C vaccine for FMDV O1 Campos (Ad5-O1C), however, only induced a low FMDV-specific neutralizing antibody response in swine potency tests. Granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) has been successfully used to stimulate the immune response in vaccine formulations against a number of diseases, including HIV, hepatitis C and B. To attempt to improve the FMDV-specific immune response induced by Ad5-O1C, we inoculated swine with Ad5-O1C and an Ad5 vector containing the gene for porcine GM-CSF (pGM-CSF). However, in the conditions used in this trial, pGM-CSF did not improve the immune response to Ad5-O1C and adversely affected the level of protection of swine challenged with homologous FMDV.

Abstract in English:

Traverso S.D., Correa A.M.R., Schmitz M., Colodel E.M. & Driemeier D. 2004 [Experimental poisoning by Trema micrantha (Ulmaceae) in cattle.] Intoxicação experi-mental por Trema micrantha (Ulmaceae) em bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 24(4):211-216. Setor de Patologia Veterinária, Depto Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Faculdade de Veteriná-ria, UFRGS, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: davetpat@vortex.ufrgs.br Leaves of Trema micrantha were orally given to 13 cattle. Ten animals received green leaves in a single dose, two animals received green leaves in fractionated doses, and one received the dried leaves in a single dose. Eight animals showed clinical signs and six of them died. Clinical signs were observed 16 hours after administration and included apathy, anorexia, drooling, progressive weakness, coma and death. Neurological signs as pressing the head against obstacles and head shaking were observed in four animals . Death occurred between 67 and 153 hours after the end of plant ingestion. The main gross lesions were observed in the liver, and included friable consistency, pronounced lobular pattern and areas of haemorrhages. The liver of one bovine was homogeneously dark reddened. Petechial hemorrhages in serosal membranes and edema in the gall bladder were frequently seen. Pale kidneys with red spots in the cortex were observed in one animal. Microscopically, the most striking lesion in the liver was massive coagulative necrosis, associated with centrolobular haemorrhages, observed in four animals. In the liver of one bovine centrolobular necrosis was observed . Tubular renal necrosis was noted in two animals. Additional microscopic lesions were found in the central nervous system of five bovines, especially in the frontal cortex, and included perineuronal and perivascular edema with basophilia and retraction of the neurons. T T. micrantha caused clinical signs with 50g/kg and death with doses of 54g/kg or higher. The fractionated administration of the green leaves as well as the dried leaves did not cause poisoning.

• Poisonous plants plant poisoning Trema micrantha Ulmaceae cattle liver necrosis.

Abstract in Portuguese:

Traverso S.D., Correa A.M.R., Schmitz M., Colodel E.M. & Driemeier D. 2004 [Experimental poisoning by Trema micrantha (Ulmaceae) in cattle.] Intoxicação experi-mental por Trema micrantha (Ulmaceae) em bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 24(4):211-216. Setor de Patologia Veterinária, Depto Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Faculdade de Veteriná-ria, UFRGS, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: davetpat@vortex.ufrgs.br Leaves of Trema micrantha were orally given to 13 cattle. Ten animals received green leaves in a single dose, two animals received green leaves in fractionated doses, and one received the dried leaves in a single dose. Eight animals showed clinical signs and six of them died. Clinical signs were observed 16 hours after administration and included apathy, anorexia, drooling, progressive weakness, coma and death. Neurological signs as pressing the head against obstacles and head shaking were observed in four animals . Death occurred between 67 and 153 hours after the end of plant ingestion. The main gross lesions were observed in the liver, and included friable consistency, pronounced lobular pattern and areas of haemorrhages. The liver of one bovine was homogeneously dark reddened. Petechial hemorrhages in serosal membranes and edema in the gall bladder were frequently seen. Pale kidneys with red spots in the cortex were observed in one animal. Microscopically, the most striking lesion in the liver was massive coagulative necrosis, associated with centrolobular haemorrhages, observed in four animals. In the liver of one bovine centrolobular necrosis was observed . Tubular renal necrosis was noted in two animals. Additional microscopic lesions were found in the central nervous system of five bovines, especially in the frontal cortex, and included perineuronal and perivascular edema with basophilia and retraction of the neurons. T T. micrantha caused clinical signs with 50g/kg and death with doses of 54g/kg or higher. The fractionated administration of the green leaves as well as the dried leaves did not cause poisoning.

Abstract in English:

Oliveira C.M.C., Barbosa J.D., Macedo R.S.C., Brito M.F., Peixoto P.V. & Tokarnia C.H. 2004. [A comparative study of the toxicity of Palicourea juruana (Rubiaceae) to buffalo and cattle.] Estudo comparativo da toxidez de Palicourea juruana (Rubiaceae) para búfalos e bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 24(1):27-30. Escola de Medicina Veterinária, Campus Castanhal, Universidade Federal do Pará, Rua Maximino Porpino 1000, Castanhal, PA 68743-080, Brazil. E-mail: tokarnia@ufrrj.br An experimental study was performed to establish the toxicity of Palicourea juruana for buffaloes and to add new data on the toxicity of this plant for cattle. The clinical and pathological pictures were similar, but a comparison of the lethal doses for buffaloes (1-2g/kg) and cattle (0.25g/kg) shows that the buffalo is at least 4 times more resistant. In experiments performed 10 years earlier with the fresh leaves - collected on the same farm in July, at the beginning of the dry season, only 2 months later than in this second experimental series - the lethal dose for cattle was 2 g/kg. No explanation was found for the extremely high toxicity of the plant observed in the present study.

• Plant poisoning Palicourea juruana Rubiaceae cattle buffaloes.

Abstract in Portuguese:

Oliveira C.M.C., Barbosa J.D., Macedo R.S.C., Brito M.F., Peixoto P.V. & Tokarnia C.H. 2004. [A comparative study of the toxicity of Palicourea juruana (Rubiaceae) to buffalo and cattle.] Estudo comparativo da toxidez de Palicourea juruana (Rubiaceae) para búfalos e bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 24(1):27-30. Escola de Medicina Veterinária, Campus Castanhal, Universidade Federal do Pará, Rua Maximino Porpino 1000, Castanhal, PA 68743-080, Brazil. E-mail: tokarnia@ufrrj.br An experimental study was performed to establish the toxicity of Palicourea juruana for buffaloes and to add new data on the toxicity of this plant for cattle. The clinical and pathological pictures were similar, but a comparison of the lethal doses for buffaloes (1-2g/kg) and cattle (0.25g/kg) shows that the buffalo is at least 4 times more resistant. In experiments performed 10 years earlier with the fresh leaves - collected on the same farm in July, at the beginning of the dry season, only 2 months later than in this second experimental series - the lethal dose for cattle was 2 g/kg. No explanation was found for the extremely high toxicity of the plant observed in the present study.