PESQUISA VETERINÁRIA BRASILEIRA

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Holz C.L., Cibulski S.P., Teixeira T.F., Batista H.B.C.R., Campos F.S., Silva J.R., Varela A.P.M., Cenci A., Franco A.C. & Roehe P.M. 2009. [Seroprevalence of bovine herpesvirus types 1 and/or 5 in the state of Rio Grande do Sul.] Soroprevalência de herpesvírus bovinos tipos 1 e/ou 5 no Estado do Rio Grande do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(9):767-773. Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor, Fepagro Saúde Animal, Estrada do Conde 6000, Cx. Postal 47, Eldorado do Sul, RS 92990-000, Brazil. E-mail: proehe@gmail.com This study was carried out to estimate the prevalence of antibodies to bovine herpesviruses types 1(BoHV-1) and 5 (BoHV-5) in the state of Rio Grande do Sul (RS), Brazil, by testing serum samples against different BoHV-1 and BoHV-5 strains. The sera examined were obtained from a larger sample designed to estimate the prevalence of bovine brucellosis within the state. All sera were collected from cows 24 months or older, not vaccinated to bovine herpesviruses, from both dairy and beef herds. The number of samples to be tested was calculated based on an estimated prevalence of infection of 33%, with an average standard deviation of £1% and a 95% limit of agreement. Sera from 2.200 cattle from 390 farms distributed in 158 counties were tested by serum neutralization (SN) tests in search for antibodies to the following strains: BoHV-1.1 (strains EVI123/98 and Los Angeles), BoHV-5a (strain EVI88/95) and BoHV-5b (strain A663). The overall seroprevalence to BoHV-1 and BoHV-5 in the sampled herds was 29.2% (642/2.200); seropositive animals were detected in 225 (57.7%) of the sampled farms. Prevalence estimates varied according to the virus used for challenge in SN tests. The highest prevalence and sensitivity were attained when positive SN results against the four different strains were added together. The use of only one virus for challenge in SN tests would lead to a loss in sensitivity from 20.4% to 34.6% when compared to the combined SN-positive results. These findings provide evidence that antibodies to BoHV-1 and BoHV-5 are largely spread in dairy and beef herds in RS, although prevalence in distinct geographic regions is quite variable. The results were strongly affected by the virus strains used for challenge in SN testing. This must be taken into account when performing serologic tests to detect BoHV-1 and BoHV-5 antibodies. As SN test is not capable of discriminating between antibody responses to BoHV-1 and BoHV-5, type-specific prevalence remains unknown.

• Bovine herpesvirus type 1 bovine herpesvirus type 5 BoHV-1 BoHV-5 herpesvírus bovinos tipo 1 herpesvírus bovinos tipo 5

Abstract in Portuguese:

RESUMO.- Holz C.L., Cibulski S.P., Teixeira T.F., Batista H.B.C.R., Campos F.S., Silva J.R., Varela A.P.M., Cenci A., Franco A.C. & Roehe P.M. 2009. [Seroprevalence of bovine herpesvirus types 1 and/or 5 in the state of Rio Grande do Sul.] Soroprevalência de herpesvírus bovinos tipos 1 e/ou 5 no Estado do Rio Grande do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(9):767-773. Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor, Fepagro Saúde Animal, Estrada do Conde 6000, Cx. Postal 47, Eldorado do Sul, RS 92990-000, Brazil. E-mail: proehe@gmail.com Este estudo objetivou estimar a prevalência de anticorpos contra os herpesvírus bovinos tipos 1 e 5 (BoHV-1 e BoHV-5) no Estado do Rio Grande do Sul (RS), Brasil, frente a diferentes cepas de BoHV-1 e BoHV-5. As amostras de soro utilizadas foram extraídas de uma amostragem mais ampla, desenhada para estimar a prevalência de brucelose bovina no Estado. Todos os soros foram coletados de vacas com idade igual ou superior a 24 meses de idade, não vacinadas contra herpesvírus bovinos, de rebanhos de corte e leite. O cálculo amostral foi baseado em uma expectativa de prevalência média de infecção de 33%, considerando-se um erro padrão não superior a 1% e um intervalo de confiança de 95%. Com base nesse cálculo foram examinados 2.200 soros, provenientes de 390 propriedades e 158 municípios. Os soros foram analisados na busca de anticorpos contra BoHV-1 e BoHV-5 pela técnica de soroneutralização (SN), executada frente a quatro cepas de vírus distintas: EVI123/98 e Los Angeles (BoHV-1.1); EVI88/95 (BoHV-5a) e A663 (BoHV-5b). A prevalência média de anticorpos contra o BoHV-1 e BoHV-5 nos animais amostrados foi de 29,2% (642/2200); animais soropositivos foram identificados em 57,7% (225/390) dos rebanhos. As estimativas de prevalência variaram de acordo com a cepa e/ou vírus utilizado para o desafio nos testes de SN. A prevalência e a sensibilidade mais altas foram obtidas quando os resultados positivos à SN frente aos quatro vírus distintos foram somados. O uso de somente um vírus de desafio na SN levaria a redução de sensibilidade de 20,4% a 34,6% quando comparada com os resultados positivos combinados. Estes achados evidenciam que anticorpos contra BoHV-1 e BoHV-5 estão amplamente difundidos nos rebanhos do RS, embora a prevalência em distintas regiões geográficas seja bastante variada. Os resultados obtidos nas estimativas de prevalência foram fortemente afetados pelas diferentes amostras de vírus usadas nos testes de SN. Esse fato deve ser levado em consideração quando estudos sorológicos para BoHV-1 e BoHV-5 forem realizados. Como a SN não é capaz de discriminar as respostas de anticorpos para BoHV-1 e BoHV-5, a prevalência tipo-específica permanece desconhecida.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Schmidt V., Pinto A.T., Schneider R.N. Silva F.F.P. & Mello F.A. 2009. [Characterization of subclinical mastitis in dairy goats herds raised on an organic system in Rio Grande do Sul.] Caracterização da mastite subclínica em caprinos produzidos em sistema orgânico no Rio Grande do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(9):774-778. Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E.mail: veronica.schmidt@ufrgs.br Milk and derivates are recognized as vehicle of different pathogens for humans. These micoorganisms may manifest as post-milking contamination or as in infections in the animal itself, particularly in mastitis. The aim of present study was characterizes the occurrence of mastitis and management aspects in dairy-goats raised in three farms of organic milk. The correlation between mastitis and goat husbandry was also investigated. The clinical exam of the mammary glands of 64 dairy-goats did not reveal the presence of clinical mastitis. Nevertheless, the California Mastitis Test (CMT) identified 54 (22.7%) reactive mammary halves (+ or ++). From 238 milk samples collected, 37 (15.6%) were positive for bacterial isolates. Coincident positive results for bacterial isolate tests and CMT were observed in only eight samples, which indicate a sensitivity index of 21.6% for the caprine subclinical mastitis diagnosis test. Coagulase-negative staphylococci (CNS) were identified as the most frequent pathogen in milk samples (83.8%). The in vitro sensitivity test revealed CNS strains resistant to cotrimoxazole (50%), ampicillin (48.1%), nitrofurantoine (7.7%), cefaclor (7.14%), and oxacilline (3.85%). Cefalotine, gentamicin, neomycin, streptomycin, and tetracycline were the most effective drugs. No correlation was observed between the occurrence of subclinical mastitis and race, lactation period, drinking water quality in farms, or milking system as adopted in the present study.

• Mastitis coagulase-negative staphylococci mastite Staphylococcus coagulase negativo

Abstract in Portuguese:

RESUMO.- Schmidt V., Pinto A.T., Schneider R.N. Silva F.F.P. & Mello F.A. 2009. [Characterization of subclinical mastitis in dairy goats herds raised on an organic system in Rio Grande do Sul.] Caracterização da mastite subclínica em caprinos produzidos em sistema orgânico no Rio Grande do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(9):774-778. Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E.mail: veronica.schmidt@ufrgs.br O leite e derivados são reconhecidos como veículos de patógenos para humanos, secundário a contaminação pós-ordenha ou de infecções do próprio animal, particularmente na mastite. Foi estudada a ocorrência de mastite e aspectos do manejo em cabras de três propriedades criadas em sistema orgânico. O exame clínico da glândula mamária de 64 cabras em diferentes períodos de lactação, não acusou a presença de mastite clínica. Entretanto, o Califórnia Mastitis Test (CMT) identificou 54 (22,7%) metades mamárias reagentes (+ ou ++). Foram colhidas 238 amostras de leite, das quais houve isolamento bacteriano em 37 (15,6%). Em apenas oito amostras houve coincidência entre o isolamento bacteriano e o resultado do CMT, indicando sensibilidade de 21,6% para este teste no diagnóstico de mastite subclínica em caprinos. Staphylococcus coagulase negativa (SCN) foi o microrganismo mais freqüente (83,8%). O teste de sensibilidade microbiana in vitro revelou resistência das linhagens de SCN ao cotrimoxazol (50%), ampicilina (48,1%), nitrofurantoína (7,7%), cefaclor (7,14%) e oxacilina (3,85%). Cefalotina, gentamicina, neomicina, estreptomicina e tetraciclina foram os antimicrobianos mais efetivos frente aos isolados. Não se evidenciou relação entre a ocorrência de mastite subclínica com a raça, a fase de lactação, sistema de ordenha ou qualidade da água utilizada nas propriedades.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Roza M.R., Silva L.A.F., Januário A.L., Barriviera M., Oliveira A.C.S. & Fioravanti M.C.S. 2009. [Cone beam computed tomography in veterinary dentistry: Description and standardization of the technique.] Tomografia computadorizada de feixe cônico na odontologia veterinária: descrição e padronização da técnica. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(8):617-624. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Campus II Samambaia, Cx. Postal 131, Goiânia, GO 74001-970, Brazil. E-mail: marcelloroza@gmail.com Eleven dogs and four cats with buccodental alterations, treated in the Centro Veterinário do Gama, in Brasilia, DF, Brazil, were submitted to cone beam computed tomography. The exams were carried out in a i-CAT tomograph, using for image acquisition six centimeters height, 40 seconds time, 0.2 voxel, 120 kilovolts and 46.72 milliamperes per second. The ideal positioning of the animal for the exam was also determined in this study and it proved to be fundamental for successful examination, which required a simple and safe anesthetic protocol due to the relatively short period of time necessary to obtain the images. Several alterations and diseases were identified with accurate imaging, demonstrating that cone beam computed tomography is a safe, accessible and feasible imaging method which could be included in the small animal dentistry routine diagnosis.

• Cone beam computed tomography

Abstract in Portuguese:

RESUMO.- Roza M.R., Silva L.A.F., Januário A.L., Barriviera M., Oliveira A.C.S. & Fioravanti M.C.S. 2009. [Cone beam computed tomography in veterinary dentistry: Description and standardization of the technique.] Tomografia computadorizada de feixe cônico na odontologia veterinária: descrição e padronização da técnica. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(8):617-624. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Campus II Samambaia, Cx. Postal 131, Goiânia, GO 74001-970, Brazil. E-mail: marcelloroza@gmail.com Onze cães e quatro gatos, portadores de alterações buco-dentárias e atendidos no Centro Veterinário do Gama, em Brasília, DF, foram submetidos à tomografia computadorizada de feixe cônico. Os exames foram realizados em um tomógrafo i-CAT, utilizando para aquisição das imagens, altura de seis centímetros, tempo de 40 segundos, 0,2 voxel, 120 kilovolts e 46,72 miliampéres por segundo. O melhor posicionamento dos animais para realização do exame foi definido neste estudo. Esse é um fator fundamental para a realização do exame, que necessitou um protocolo anestésico simples e seguro, em função do tempo mínimo necessário à obtenção das imagens. Várias alterações e enfermidades foram identificadas, com extrema acurácia, credenciando a tomografia computadorizada de feixe cônico como um exame seguro, acessível e exeqüível e que pode ser incorporado à rotina odontológica das clínicas de pequenos animais.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Schatzmayr H.G., Simonetti B.R., Abreu D.C., Simonetti J.P., Simonetti S.R., Costa R.V.V., Gonçalves M.C.R., Gerhardt M.., Silva M.E.V., Farias-Filho J.C. & Barth O.M. 2009. Animal infections by vaccinia-like virus in the state of Rio de Janeiro: An expanding disease. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(7):509-514. Laboratório de Morfologia e Morfogênese Viral, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fiocruz, Avenida Brasil 4365, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 21040-900, Brazil. E-mail: hermann@ioc.fiocruz.br In the present study we investigated the presence of infections by vaccinia-like viruses in dairy cattle from 12 counties in the state of Rio de Janeiro in the last 9 years. Clinical specimens were collected from adult animals with vesicular/pustular lesions mainly in the udder and teats, and from calves with lesions around the nose and mouth. A plaque reduction neutralization test (PRNT) was applied to search for antibodies to Orthopoxvirus; the vesicular/pustular fluids and scabs were examined by PCR, electron microscopy (EM) and by inoculation in VERO cells for virus isolation. Antibodies to Orthopoxvirus were detected in most cases. The PCR test indicated a high nucleotide homology among the isolates and the vaccinia viruses (VACV) used as controls. By EM, typical orthopoxvirus particles were observed in some specimens. The agents isolated in tissue culture were confirmed as vaccinia-like viruses by EM and PCR. The HA gene of the vaccinia-like Cantagalo/IOC virus isolated in our laboratory was sequenced and compared with other vaccinia-like isolates, showing high homology with the original Cantagalo strain, both strains isolated in 1999 from dairy cattle. Antibodies to Orthopoxvirus were detected in one wild rodent (genus Akodon sp.) collected in the northwestern region of the state, indicating the circulation of poxvirus in this area. Nonetheless, PCR applied to tissue samples collected from the wild rodents were negative. Vesicular/pustular lesions in people in close contact with animals have been also recorded. Thus, the vaccinia-like virus infections in cattle and humans in the state seem to be an expanding condition, resulting in economic losses to dairy herds and leading to transient incapacitating human disease. Therefore, a possible immunization of the dairy cattle in the state should be carefully evaluated.

• Orthopoxvirus infections PCR neutralization test electron microscopy state of Rio de Janeiro

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Schatzmayr H.G., Simonetti B.R., Abreu D.C., Simonetti J.P., Simonetti S.R., Costa R.V.V., Gonçalves M.C.R., Gerhardt M.., Silva M.E.V., Farias-Filho J.C. & Barth O.M. 2009. Animal infections by vaccinia-like virus in the state of Rio de Janeiro: An expanding disease. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(7):509-514. Laboratório de Morfologia e Morfogênese Viral, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fiocruz, Avenida Brasil 4365, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 21040-900, Brazil. E-mail: hermann@ioc.fiocruz.br In the present study we investigated the presence of infections by vaccinia-like viruses in dairy cattle from 12 counties in the state of Rio de Janeiro in the last 9 years. Clinical specimens were collected from adult animals with vesicular/pustular lesions mainly in the udder and teats, and from calves with lesions around the nose and mouth. A plaque reduction neutralization test (PRNT) was applied to search for antibodies to Orthopoxvirus; the vesicular/pustular fluids and scabs were examined by PCR, electron microscopy (EM) and by inoculation in VERO cells for virus isolation. Antibodies to Orthopoxvirus were detected in most cases. The PCR test indicated a high nucleotide homology among the isolates and the vaccinia viruses (VACV) used as controls. By EM, typical orthopoxvirus particles were observed in some specimens. The agents isolated in tissue culture were confirmed as vaccinia-like viruses by EM and PCR. The HA gene of the vaccinia-like Cantagalo/IOC virus isolated in our laboratory was sequenced and compared with other vaccinia-like isolates, showing high homology with the original Cantagalo strain, both strains isolated in 1999 from dairy cattle. Antibodies to Orthopoxvirus were detected in one wild rodent (genus Akodon sp.) collected in the northwestern region of the state, indicating the circulation of poxvirus in this area. Nonetheless, PCR applied to tissue samples collected from the wild rodents were negative. Vesicular/pustular lesions in people in close contact with animals have been also recorded. Thus, the vaccinia-like virus infections in cattle and humans in the state seem to be an expanding condition, resulting in economic losses to dairy herds and leading to transient incapacitating human disease. Therefore, a possible immunization of the dairy cattle in the state should be carefully evaluated.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Helayel M.A., França T.N., Seixas J.N., Nogueira V.A., Caldas S.A. & Peixoto P.V. 2009. [Sudden death in cattle caused by ingestion of Pseudocalymma elegans (Bignoniaceae) in the county of Rio Bonito, Rio de Janeiro.] Morte súbita em bovinos causada pela ingestão de Pseudocalymma elegans (Bignoniaceae) no município de Rio Bonito, RJ. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(7):498-508. Curso de Pós-Graduação em Medicina Veterinária, Instituto de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil. E-mail: michel_abdallavet@yahoo.com.br Natural poisoning by Pseudocalymma elegans, a plant that causes “sudden death” and only occurs in the State of Rio de Janeiro, is described in a cow. This condition was experimentally reproduced in three calves and three rabbits with the plant collected in the area where the deaths had occurred. Postmortem and histopathological examinations of the natural case in the cow did not reveal significant alterations. Oral administration of 1g/kg of the sprouts of P. elegans caused death of the calf 5 hours and 30 minutes after beginning of the administration. The dose of 0.5 g/kg caused death of another calf with onset of symptoms after 3 hours and 24 minutes and a course of 73 hours and 12 minutes. Animals that ingest borderline doses may show a longer course with a characteristic clinical picture of heart impairment. The dose of 0.25g/kg did not cause death, but only clinical signs. Heart palpitation and arrhythmia, increase of breathing frequency, reluctance in moving, positive venous pulse, ingurgitated jugular veins, falling down and peddling movements shortly before death, were observed. At postmortem examination the lesions were those of acute heart insufficiency, and histopathological examination revealed the typical kidney lesion (hydropic-vacular degeneration in the distal convoluted tubules) seen in poisoning by plants that cause “sudden death”. In the experimentally poisoned rabbits the clinical course was less than 1-2 minutes. In the kidney of two rabbits there was also the characteristic microscopic lesion. The presence of the plant in the county of Rio Bonito had not been known by the veterinarians. It is concluded that the plant could be more toxic than described before.

• Poisonous plants Pseudocalymma elegans Bignoniaceae plant poisoning sudden death cattle rabbits

Abstract in Portuguese:

RESUMO.- Helayel M.A., França T.N., Seixas J.N., Nogueira V.A., Caldas S.A. & Peixoto P.V. 2009. [Sudden death in cattle caused by ingestion of Pseudocalymma elegans (Bignoniaceae) in the county of Rio Bonito, Rio de Janeiro.] Morte súbita em bovinos causada pela ingestão de Pseudocalymma elegans (Bignoniaceae) no município de Rio Bonito, RJ. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(7):498-508. Curso de Pós-Graduação em Medicina Veterinária, Instituto de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil. E-mail: michel_abdallavet@yahoo.com.br Descreve-se a intoxicação natural por Pseudocalymma elegans em pelo menos um bovino em Rio Bonito, RJ e a reprodução experimental dessa intoxicação em três bovinos e em 3 coelhos com exemplares dessa planta colhida no local onde ocorreu a morte. Necropsia e histopatologia do bovino naturalmente intoxicado não revelaram alterações significativas. A administração, por via oral, de 1g/kg da brotação da planta causou a morte do bovino dentro de 5h e 30 minutos após o início da administração, já pela administração de 0,5 g/kg, a morte do animal ocorreu após 76 horas e 36 minutos. A dose de 0,25g/kg foi capaz de causar sintomas, mas não levou a morte. A sintomatologia caracterizou-se por arritmia cardíaca, taquicardia, aumento da freqüência respiratória, relutância em se mover, pulso venoso positivo, jugulares e grandes vasos ingurgitados, queda ao solo e movimentos de pedalagem, seguindo-se o óbito. À necropsia foram verificadas alterações compatíveis com às observadas na insuficiência cardíaca aguda, e o exame histopatológico revelou a lesão renal típica (degeneração hidrópica em túbulos contornados distais) de intoxicação por plantas que causam “morte súbita”. Nos coelhos, a evolução variou entre menos de um minuto a dois minutos. O exame histopatológico do rim de dois coelhos também revelou a lesão microscópica característica. Essa planta ainda não havia sido mapeada nessa área do Estado do Rio de Janeiro. Conclui-se que a planta pode ser mais tóxica do que anteriormente descrito.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Costa V.M.M., Simões S.V.D. & Riet-Correa F. 2009. [Parasitic diseases in ruminants in the Brazilian semiarid.] Doenças parasitárias em ruminantes no semi-árido brasileiro. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(7):563-568. Hospital Veterinário, CSTR, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Campus de Patos, 58700-970 Patos, PB, Brazil. Email: franklin.riet@pq.cnpq.br Clinical cases and diagnostic specimens from ruminants received by the Veterinary Hospital of the University of Campina Grande in Patos, Paraíba, Brazil, from January 2000 to August 2007, were reviewed to evaluate some epidemiological aspects of parasitic diseases of ruminants in the semiarid region of Paraíba and neighboring states. The region has an annual rainfall of about 800mm, with irregular rains concentrated in a 3 to 4-month-period, and an average annual temperature of 26°C. During those years, 163 (5.31%) out of 3,064 ruminants were affected by some parasitic disease. The most important parasitosis in goats and sheep was gastrointestinal helminthiasis, mainly hemonchosis; goats were more affected (6.24% of cases in this species) than sheep (4.7% of cases). The higher frequency of the disease in goats may be associated with higher susceptibility or due to treatment mistakes, i.e. use of the same dose for both species, which for most anti-antihelmintics is insufficient for goats. Cattle have a low rate of gastrointestinal helminthiasis (1 out of 1,113 cases). This low frequency is probably due to the farming system in the semiarid, with low stocking rate, up to one adult bovine for every 13-16 ha, and permanence of calves (susceptible) with their mothers (resistant) for nearly one year before weaning. The occurrence of eimeriosis in goats and sheep was observed in 0.76% of the cases, involving only young animals. The main cattle disease was tick fever with 14 outbreaks. Outbreaks of tick fever occur, mainly at the end of the raining season in areas of the semiarid which are marginal for tick, like plateaus and mountains of the Borborema region, irrigated areas, and areas of the basins of two rivers of the region. In the drier areas of the semiarid Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus do not survive during the dry period, but tick fever can occur when cattle with ticks are introduced at the onset of the raining season.

• Ruminant; parasitic diseases helminthiasis parasitosis tick fever

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Costa V.M.M., Simões S.V.D. & Riet-Correa F. 2009. [Parasitic diseases in ruminants in the Brazilian semiarid.] Doenças parasitárias em ruminantes no semi-árido brasileiro. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(7):563-568. Hospital Veterinário, CSTR, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Campus de Patos, 58700-970 Patos, PB, Brazil. Email: franklin.riet@pq.cnpq.br Clinical cases and diagnostic specimens from ruminants received by the Veterinary Hospital of the University of Campina Grande in Patos, Paraíba, Brazil, from January 2000 to August 2007, were reviewed to evaluate some epidemiological aspects of parasitic diseases of ruminants in the semiarid region of Paraíba and neighboring states. The region has an annual rainfall of about 800mm, with irregular rains concentrated in a 3 to 4-month-period, and an average annual temperature of 26°C. During those years, 163 (5.31%) out of 3,064 ruminants were affected by some parasitic disease. The most important parasitosis in goats and sheep was gastrointestinal helminthiasis, mainly hemonchosis; goats were more affected (6.24% of cases in this species) than sheep (4.7% of cases). The higher frequency of the disease in goats may be associated with higher susceptibility or due to treatment mistakes, i.e. use of the same dose for both species, which for most anti-antihelmintics is insufficient for goats. Cattle have a low rate of gastrointestinal helminthiasis (1 out of 1,113 cases). This low frequency is probably due to the farming system in the semiarid, with low stocking rate, up to one adult bovine for every 13-16 ha, and permanence of calves (susceptible) with their mothers (resistant) for nearly one year before weaning. The occurrence of eimeriosis in goats and sheep was observed in 0.76% of the cases, involving only young animals. The main cattle disease was tick fever with 14 outbreaks. Outbreaks of tick fever occur, mainly at the end of the raining season in areas of the semiarid which are marginal for tick, like plateaus and mountains of the Borborema region, irrigated areas, and areas of the basins of two rivers of the region. In the drier areas of the semiarid Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus do not survive during the dry period, but tick fever can occur when cattle with ticks are introduced at the onset of the raining season.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Medeiros E.S., Mota R.A., Santos M.V., Freitas M.F.L. Pinheiro Jr J.W. & Teles J.A. A. 2009. [In vitro antimicrobial sensitivity to Staphylococcus spp. isolates from dairy cows with subclinical mastitis.] Sensibilidade antimicrobiana in vitro de Staphylococcus spp. isoladas do leite de vacas com mastite subclínica. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(7):569-574. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, Rua Dom Manoel de Medeiros s/n, Dois Irmãos, Recife, PE 51171-900, Brazil. E-mail: rinaldo.mota@hotmail.com The objective of the investigation was to evaluate the in vitro antimicrobial sensibility of 291 isolates of Staphylococcus spp., taken from the mammary glands of dairy cows with subclinical mastitis in the regions of Metropolitan Recife (A), Agreste (B) and Zona da Mata (C) in the state of Pernambuco, Brazil. From the 291 isolates, 170 (58.4%) were identified as negative coagulase Staphylococcus (SCN), 84 (28.9%) as Staphylococcus aureus, and 37 (12.7%) as positive coagulase Staphylococcus (SCP). To study sensitivity to antimicrobials, the diffusion in disks method was used with 16 antimicrobial drugs commonly employed in the treatment of mastitis. The most efficient antibiotic in vitro was the combination of neomicine + bacitracine + tetracycline with percentages of 98.4%, 99.3%, and 89.7% for the A, B, and C regions, respectively. The least efficient was ampicillin, which was resistant to 56.5% of the isolates taken from region A, 72.8% from region B, and 71.8% from region C. These results indicate the need for periodic testing of sensitivity in vitro, as these variations can compromise the treatment of animals as well as control programs for bovine mastitis caused by Staphylococcus spp.

• Milk mastitis antimicrobial sensitivity Staphylococcus spp

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Medeiros E.S., Mota R.A., Santos M.V., Freitas M.F.L. Pinheiro Jr J.W. & Teles J.A. A. 2009. [In vitro antimicrobial sensitivity to Staphylococcus spp. isolates from dairy cows with subclinical mastitis.] Sensibilidade antimicrobiana in vitro de Staphylococcus spp. isoladas do leite de vacas com mastite subclínica. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(7):569-574. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, Rua Dom Manoel de Medeiros s/n, Dois Irmãos, Recife, PE 51171-900, Brazil. E-mail: rinaldo.mota@hotmail.com The objective of the investigation was to evaluate the in vitro antimicrobial sensibility of 291 isolates of Staphylococcus spp., taken from the mammary glands of dairy cows with subclinical mastitis in the regions of Metropolitan Recife (A), Agreste (B) and Zona da Mata (C) in the state of Pernambuco, Brazil. From the 291 isolates, 170 (58.4%) were identified as negative coagulase Staphylococcus (SCN), 84 (28.9%) as Staphylococcus aureus, and 37 (12.7%) as positive coagulase Staphylococcus (SCP). To study sensitivity to antimicrobials, the diffusion in disks method was used with 16 antimicrobial drugs commonly employed in the treatment of mastitis. The most efficient antibiotic in vitro was the combination of neomicine + bacitracine + tetracycline with percentages of 98.4%, 99.3%, and 89.7% for the A, B, and C regions, respectively. The least efficient was ampicillin, which was resistant to 56.5% of the isolates taken from region A, 72.8% from region B, and 71.8% from region C. These results indicate the need for periodic testing of sensitivity in vitro, as these variations can compromise the treatment of animals as well as control programs for bovine mastitis caused by Staphylococcus spp.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Rangel P. & Marin J.M. 2009. Analysis of Escherichia coli isolated from bovine mastitic milk. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(5):363-368. Departamento de Morfologia, Estomatologia e Fisiologia, Faculdade de Odontologia de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Avenida do Café s/n, Campus USP, Ribeirão Preto, SP 14040-904, Brazil. E-mail: jmmarin@forp.usp.br Mastitis has been recognized for some time as the most costly disease in dairy herds. From February to November 2004, 670 samples of bovine mastitic milk from which 231 Escherichia coli strains were isolated, were collected from two Brazilian states. The strains were screened for the presence of Shiga toxin-producing (stx 1 and stx 2) and intimin (eae) genes. Twenty (8.6%) strains were detected by PCR to harbor the Shiga toxin genes (8 the stx 1 gene, 12 the stx 2 gene and none both of them). Two (0.8%) of the Escherichia coli strains studied were eae positive non Shiga toxin-producing. The strains were also examined for resistance to 12 antimicrobial agents. The predominantly observed resistance was to tetracycline (92.2%), streptomycin (90.4%), nalidixic acid (88.3%), amikacin (86.5%) and cephalothin (84.8%). Multidrug resistance was found among 152 isolates (65.8%).

• Escherichia coli mastitis antimicrobial agents multidrug resistance eae gene mastite agentes antimicrobianos resistência a antimicrobianos gene eae.

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Rangel P. & Marin J.M. 2009. Analysis of Escherichia coli isolated from bovine mastitic milk. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(5):363-368. Departamento de Morfologia, Estomatologia e Fisiologia, Faculdade de Odontologia de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Avenida do Café s/n, Campus USP, Ribeirão Preto, SP 14040-904, Brazil. E-mail: jmmarin@forp.usp.br Mastitis has been recognized for some time as the most costly disease in dairy herds. From February to November 2004, 670 samples of bovine mastitic milk from which 231 Escherichia coli strains were isolated, were collected from two Brazilian states. The strains were screened for the presence of Shiga toxin-producing (stx 1 and stx 2) and intimin (eae) genes. Twenty (8.6%) strains were detected by PCR to harbor the Shiga toxin genes (8 the stx 1 gene, 12 the stx 2 gene and none both of them). Two (0.8%) of the Escherichia coli strains studied were eae positive non Shiga toxin-producing. The strains were also examined for resistance to 12 antimicrobial agents. The predominantly observed resistance was to tetracycline (92.2%), streptomycin (90.4%), nalidixic acid (88.3%), amikacin (86.5%) and cephalothin (84.8%). Multidrug resistance was found among 152 isolates (65.8%).

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Coelho S.M.O., Reinoso E., Pereira I.A., Soares L.C., Demo M., Bogni C & Souza M.M.S. 2009. Virulence factors and antimicrobial resistance in Staphylo-coccus aureus isolated from bovine mastitis in Rio de Janeiro. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(5):369-374. Departamento de Microbiologia e Imunologia Veterinária, Instituto de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil. E-mail: miliane@ufrrj.br The study was conducted to characterize pheno-genotypically the virulence factors and resistance pattern of Staphylococcus aureus isolates from milk samples of cows with subclinical mastitis. All hemolytic isolates presented beta-hemolysin, and 38% of the non-hemolytic isolates were able to express hemolysins in the presence of a beta-hemolytic strain. The amplification of the coa-gene displayed four different size polymorphisms with about 400 bp, 600 bp, 700 bp and 900 bp. The spaA gene that encodes the IgG-binding region of protein A revealed sizes of 700 bp and 900 bp. The amplification of region X from spaA yielded a single amplicon for each isolate with the prevalent amplicon size being of 180 bp. Amplification of sae gene yielded an amplicon size of 920 bp in 71% of the isolates. Antibiotic resistance pattern revealed that 42% S. aureus were susceptible to all antimicrobials tested. Seven different antibiotic patterns were observed. Our results indicated that 47% and 25% of S. aureus strains exhibited resistance to penicillin and oxacillin respectively. All oxacillin-resistant isolates were mecA-positive.

• Staphylococcus aureus antimicrobial resistance virulence factors resistência antimicrobiana fatores de virulência

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Coelho S.M.O., Reinoso E., Pereira I.A., Soares L.C., Demo M., Bogni C & Souza M.M.S. 2009. Virulence factors and antimicrobial resistance in Staphylo-coccus aureus isolated from bovine mastitis in Rio de Janeiro. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(5):369-374. Departamento de Microbiologia e Imunologia Veterinária, Instituto de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil. E-mail: miliane@ufrrj.br The study was conducted to characterize pheno-genotypically the virulence factors and resistance pattern of Staphylococcus aureus isolates from milk samples of cows with subclinical mastitis. All hemolytic isolates presented beta-hemolysin, and 38% of the non-hemolytic isolates were able to express hemolysins in the presence of a beta-hemolytic strain. The amplification of the coa-gene displayed four different size polymorphisms with about 400 bp, 600 bp, 700 bp and 900 bp. The spaA gene that encodes the IgG-binding region of protein A revealed sizes of 700 bp and 900 bp. The amplification of region X from spaA yielded a single amplicon for each isolate with the prevalent amplicon size being of 180 bp. Amplification of sae gene yielded an amplicon size of 920 bp in 71% of the isolates. Antibiotic resistance pattern revealed that 42% S. aureus were susceptible to all antimicrobials tested. Seven different antibiotic patterns were observed. Our results indicated that 47% and 25% of S. aureus strains exhibited resistance to penicillin and oxacillin respectively. All oxacillin-resistant isolates were mecA-positive.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Câmara A.C.L., Afonso J.A.B., Costa N.A., Mendonça C.L. & Souza M.I. 2009. [Primary abomasal impaction in 14 cattle from Pernambuco State, northeastern Brazil.] Compactação primária do abomaso em 14 bovinos no Estado de Pernambuco. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(5):387-394. Clínica de Bovinos, Campus Garanhuns, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, Av. Bom Pastor s/n, Cx. Postal 152, Mundaú, Garanhuns, PE 55292-901, Brazil. E-mail: aclcamara@yahoo.com.br Despite the frequent use of dry and fibrous roughage for feeding cows in many regions, especially during the dry season, impaction of the abomasum has been poorly reported in Brazil, probably because the condition is misdiagnosed by practitioners. The present paper aimed to accomplish a retrospective study on primary abomasal impaction in 14 cattle from Pernambuco State, northeastern Brazil. Eight moderate cases, without severe abdominal distention and with no rumen compaction, were treated conservatively, and four severe cases, with severe abdominal distention and rumen compaction, were treated surgically. One bull was slaughtered and one cow died without treatment. The greater number of abomasal impaction cases was in Holstein cows with six cases (42.9%), followed by crossbred cattle with five cases (35.8%), and the breeds Brown-Swiss, Nelore and Marchigiana, each with one case (21.3%). The food composition was characterized by low quality fibers and varied greatly among cases. Most frequent clinical signs were apathy, dehydration, hypomotility and ruminal bloat, intestinal hypomotility and scanty or absent feces with mucus. The hematological findings revealed leukocytosis with neutrophilia and hyperfibrinogenemia in most cases. Ruminal fluid analysis showed compromised flora and fauna dynamics and increased chlorine ion concentration. Clinical (4/8) and chirurgical (2/4) recovery rate achieved 50%. The clinical and chirurgical methods remain as viable options for the treatment of light and severe impaction, but the prognosis is always reserved especially when associated to late pregnancy.

• Impaction vagal indigestion Compactação indigestão vagal

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Câmara A.C.L., Afonso J.A.B., Costa N.A., Mendonça C.L. & Souza M.I. 2009. [Primary abomasal impaction in 14 cattle from Pernambuco State, northeastern Brazil.] Compactação primária do abomaso em 14 bovinos no Estado de Pernambuco. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(5):387-394. Clínica de Bovinos, Campus Garanhuns, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, Av. Bom Pastor s/n, Cx. Postal 152, Mundaú, Garanhuns, PE 55292-901, Brazil. E-mail: aclcamara@yahoo.com.br Despite the frequent use of dry and fibrous roughage for feeding cows in many regions, especially during the dry season, impaction of the abomasum has been poorly reported in Brazil, probably because the condition is misdiagnosed by practitioners. The present paper aimed to accomplish a retrospective study on primary abomasal impaction in 14 cattle from Pernambuco State, northeastern Brazil. Eight moderate cases, without severe abdominal distention and with no rumen compaction, were treated conservatively, and four severe cases, with severe abdominal distention and rumen compaction, were treated surgically. One bull was slaughtered and one cow died without treatment. The greater number of abomasal impaction cases was in Holstein cows with six cases (42.9%), followed by crossbred cattle with five cases (35.8%), and the breeds Brown-Swiss, Nelore and Marchigiana, each with one case (21.3%). The food composition was characterized by low quality fibers and varied greatly among cases. Most frequent clinical signs were apathy, dehydration, hypomotility and ruminal bloat, intestinal hypomotility and scanty or absent feces with mucus. The hematological findings revealed leukocytosis with neutrophilia and hyperfibrinogenemia in most cases. Ruminal fluid analysis showed compromised flora and fauna dynamics and increased chlorine ion concentration. Clinical (4/8) and chirurgical (2/4) recovery rate achieved 50%. The clinical and chirurgical methods remain as viable options for the treatment of light and severe impaction, but the prognosis is always reserved especially when associated to late pregnancy.