PESQUISA VETERINÁRIA BRASILEIRA

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Galo K.R, Fonseca A.H., Madureira R.C. & Barbosa Neto J.D. 2009. [Occurrence of homologous anti-Borrelia burgdorferi antibodies in equines in the metropolitan mesorregion of Belém, State of Para, Brazil.] Freqüência de anticorpos homólogos anti-Borrelia burgdorferi em eqüinos na mesorregião metropolitana de Belém, Estado do Pará. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(3):229-232. Departamento de Epidemiologia e Saúde Pública, Instituto de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil. E-mail: adivaldo@ufrrj.br Spirochaetes transmitted by ticks are microorganisms of worldwide distribution, which infect wild, domestic animals and human beings. A total of 300 equine sera from four municipalities: Ananideua (58), Belém (61), Castanhal (131), and Santa Izabel do Pará (50), were evaluated for Borrelia burgdorferi by an Elisa test. There were no significant differences (P<0.05) among municipalities, breed, sex or husbandry. A total of 80 (26.7%) horses were B. burgdorferi positive with titles of 1:800, 72 (90%) horses, 1:1.600, 6 (7.5%) horses, and 1:3.200, 2 (2.5%) horses. The results were similar to those in the USA, where related frequencies ranged from 7 to 75% in asymptomatic seropositive horses. The presence of anti-B.burgdorferi homologous antibodies in horses from four municipalities in the metropolitan mesorregion of Belém suggests the possibility of occurrence of human cases in the region.

• Borrelia burgdorferi Spirochaetacae horses serology

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Galo K.R, Fonseca A.H., Madureira R.C. & Barbosa Neto J.D. 2009. [Occurrence of homologous anti-Borrelia burgdorferi antibodies in equines in the metropolitan mesorregion of Belém, State of Para, Brazil.] Freqüência de anticorpos homólogos anti-Borrelia burgdorferi em eqüinos na mesorregião metropolitana de Belém, Estado do Pará. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(3):229-232. Departamento de Epidemiologia e Saúde Pública, Instituto de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil. E-mail: adivaldo@ufrrj.br Spirochaetes transmitted by ticks are microorganisms of worldwide distribution, which infect wild, domestic animals and human beings. A total of 300 equine sera from four municipalities: Ananideua (58), Belém (61), Castanhal (131), and Santa Izabel do Pará (50), were evaluated for Borrelia burgdorferi by an Elisa test. There were no significant differences (P<0.05) among municipalities, breed, sex or husbandry. A total of 80 (26.7%) horses were B. burgdorferi positive with titles of 1:800, 72 (90%) horses, 1:1.600, 6 (7.5%) horses, and 1:3.200, 2 (2.5%) horses. The results were similar to those in the USA, where related frequencies ranged from 7 to 75% in asymptomatic seropositive horses. The presence of anti-B.burgdorferi homologous antibodies in horses from four municipalities in the metropolitan mesorregion of Belém suggests the possibility of occurrence of human cases in the region.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Câmara A.C.L., Costa N.A., Riet-Correa F., Afonso J.A.B., Dantas A.F.M., Mendonça C.L. & Souza M.I. 2009. [Spontaneous poisoning in cattle by mesquite beans, Prosopis juliflora (Leg. Mimosoideae) in Pernambuco.] Intoxicação espontânea por vagens de Prosopis juliflora (Leg. Mimosoideae) em bovinos em Pernambuco. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(3):233-240. 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 Three outbreaks of poisoning by Prosopis juliflora pods are reported in the semiarid region of the state of Pernambuco, Northeastern Brazil, in cattle grazing in fields invaded by the plant or ingesting mesquite beans as a concentrate food. In two farms the disease occurred sporadically. In another, 112 (9.28%) cattle out of 1206 were affected, 84 (6.96%) died due to emaciation, and 28 (2.32%) gained weight after the pods had been withdrawn from the feed. Main clinical signs were progressive weight loss, atrophy of the masseter muscles, dropped jaw, tongue protrusion, difficulties in prehending food, tilting the head during mastigation or rumination, salivation, impaired swallowing, and decreased tone of the tongue. The hematology reveals hypoproteinemia and anemia. Gross lesions were emaciation and reduction in size of the masseter muscles, which appear thinner than normal and grayish due muscular atrophy. Degeneration of neurons of the trigeminal motor nuclei, Wallerian degeneration of the trigeminal nerve roots, and muscular atrophy of the masseter muscles with substitution by fibrous tissue were observed on histologic examination. For the prevention of the poisoning is necessary to limit the amount of mesquite beans in animal nutrition. It is also necessary to develop research to determine the economic and sustainability of the use of Prosopis juliflora for animal food, human food or other uses such as charcoal, wood and fuel wood.

• Poisonous plants Prosopis juliflora Leguminosae Mimosoideae plant poisoning cattle cranial nerves impairment neuronal degeneration

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Câmara A.C.L., Costa N.A., Riet-Correa F., Afonso J.A.B., Dantas A.F.M., Mendonça C.L. & Souza M.I. 2009. [Spontaneous poisoning in cattle by mesquite beans, Prosopis juliflora (Leg. Mimosoideae) in Pernambuco.] Intoxicação espontânea por vagens de Prosopis juliflora (Leg. Mimosoideae) em bovinos em Pernambuco. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(3):233-240. 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 Three outbreaks of poisoning by Prosopis juliflora pods are reported in the semiarid region of the state of Pernambuco, Northeastern Brazil, in cattle grazing in fields invaded by the plant or ingesting mesquite beans as a concentrate food. In two farms the disease occurred sporadically. In another, 112 (9.28%) cattle out of 1206 were affected, 84 (6.96%) died due to emaciation, and 28 (2.32%) gained weight after the pods had been withdrawn from the feed. Main clinical signs were progressive weight loss, atrophy of the masseter muscles, dropped jaw, tongue protrusion, difficulties in prehending food, tilting the head during mastigation or rumination, salivation, impaired swallowing, and decreased tone of the tongue. The hematology reveals hypoproteinemia and anemia. Gross lesions were emaciation and reduction in size of the masseter muscles, which appear thinner than normal and grayish due muscular atrophy. Degeneration of neurons of the trigeminal motor nuclei, Wallerian degeneration of the trigeminal nerve roots, and muscular atrophy of the masseter muscles with substitution by fibrous tissue were observed on histologic examination. For the prevention of the poisoning is necessary to limit the amount of mesquite beans in animal nutrition. It is also necessary to develop research to determine the economic and sustainability of the use of Prosopis juliflora for animal food, human food or other uses such as charcoal, wood and fuel wood.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Maia L., Souza M.V., Alves G.E.S., Júnior J.I.R., Oliveira A.C., Silva Y.F.R.S. & Zandim B.M. 2009. [Platelet-rich plasma in the treatment of induced tendinitis in equines: Ultrasonographic evaluation.] Plasma rico em plaquetas no tratamento de tendinite induzida em eqüinos: avaliação ultra-sonográfica. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(3):241-245. Setor de Clínica e Cirurgia de Grandes Animais, Departamento de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, 36570-000 Viçosa, MG, Brazil. E-mail: msouza@ufv.br The objective of the study was to evaluate the effect of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in the treatment of induced tendinitis in the superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) of horses through ultrasonographic evaluation. Thus, six 8 to15-year-old healthy gelding horses (=12 years) were used. Tendinitis of the SDFT was provoked in both forelimbs via intratendineous administration of 2.5mg of collagenase (2.5mg.mL-1), what was considered as beginning of the experimental phase. Twelve days after induced tendinitis, the horses were submitted to two treatments: (1) in the lesion caused in the right SDFT (treated group, TG), 2.5mL of PRP activated with calcium chloride at 0.0125mol.L-1, at concentrations from 320,000 to 500,000 platelets.µL-1, were administered; (2) in the tendinitis of the left SDFT (control group, CG), 2.5mL of 0.9% saline solution was administered. After 5 days, the animals were submitted to controlled and progressive physical activity during 30 days. Ultrasonographic examinations were carried out before and after tendinitis induction (48 hours after and on experimental days 7, 12, 14, 21 28, 35 and 42), with tendon cross-sectional area (CSA), lesion cross-sectional area (L-CSA), L-CSA percentage, severity and echogenicity of the lesion, as well as collagen fiber alignment being evaluated. The result revealed reduction (P<0.05) in the L-CSA and in the degree of lesion echogenicity in function of time, but with difference (P<0.05) between groups only for L-CSA, with smaller values in TG. The treatment with PRP promotes greater reduction in the area of the lesion measured by ultrasound.

• Horses tendon ultrasound growth factors healing

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Maia L., Souza M.V., Alves G.E.S., Júnior J.I.R., Oliveira A.C., Silva Y.F.R.S. & Zandim B.M. 2009. [Platelet-rich plasma in the treatment of induced tendinitis in equines: Ultrasonographic evaluation.] Plasma rico em plaquetas no tratamento de tendinite induzida em eqüinos: avaliação ultra-sonográfica. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(3):241-245. Setor de Clínica e Cirurgia de Grandes Animais, Departamento de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, 36570-000 Viçosa, MG, Brazil. E-mail: msouza@ufv.br The objective of the study was to evaluate the effect of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in the treatment of induced tendinitis in the superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) of horses through ultrasonographic evaluation. Thus, six 8 to15-year-old healthy gelding horses (=12 years) were used. Tendinitis of the SDFT was provoked in both forelimbs via intratendineous administration of 2.5mg of collagenase (2.5mg.mL-1), what was considered as beginning of the experimental phase. Twelve days after induced tendinitis, the horses were submitted to two treatments: (1) in the lesion caused in the right SDFT (treated group, TG), 2.5mL of PRP activated with calcium chloride at 0.0125mol.L-1, at concentrations from 320,000 to 500,000 platelets.µL-1, were administered; (2) in the tendinitis of the left SDFT (control group, CG), 2.5mL of 0.9% saline solution was administered. After 5 days, the animals were submitted to controlled and progressive physical activity during 30 days. Ultrasonographic examinations were carried out before and after tendinitis induction (48 hours after and on experimental days 7, 12, 14, 21 28, 35 and 42), with tendon cross-sectional area (CSA), lesion cross-sectional area (L-CSA), L-CSA percentage, severity and echogenicity of the lesion, as well as collagen fiber alignment being evaluated. The result revealed reduction (P<0.05) in the L-CSA and in the degree of lesion echogenicity in function of time, but with difference (P<0.05) between groups only for L-CSA, with smaller values in TG. The treatment with PRP promotes greater reduction in the area of the lesion measured by ultrasound.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Pagliosa G.M., Alves G.E.S., Faleiros R.R., Matos J.R.T., Torres M.B., Mendes H.M.F. & Costa R.S. 2009. [Use of glutamine to treatment of ischemia and reperfusion lesions in equine jejune.] Utilização da glutamina no tratamento de lesões de isquemia e reperfusão no jejuno em eqüinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(3):246-252. Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia Veterinárias, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Ave-nida Antônio Carlos 6627, Caixa Postal 567, Belo Horizonte, MG 30123-970, Brazil. E-mail: geanepagliosa@gmail.com Under general anesthesia and arterial pressure control, twelve horses were submitted simultaneously to intraluminal distension and venous ischemia of jejune for 2 hours, followed by 12 hours of reperfusion. Six horses were treated with intravenous 2% glutamine (50mg/kg), and six others were treated with the same volume of saline solution 1h after the beginning of ischemia and 6 hours after reperfusion. Intestinal samples were collected before and after 2 hours of ischemia and after 2 and 12 hours of reperfusion, and were submitted to hystopatological analyses, ultrastructural examination, measurement of area and number of villi per mm2, and to myeloperoxidases activity. No statistical differences between the groups were found. It was concluded that glutamine did not attenuate the ischemia and reperfusion lesions under the methodology used in this study.

• Intestine ischemia and reperfusion colic glutamine equine

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Pagliosa G.M., Alves G.E.S., Faleiros R.R., Matos J.R.T., Torres M.B., Mendes H.M.F. & Costa R.S. 2009. [Use of glutamine to treatment of ischemia and reperfusion lesions in equine jejune.] Utilização da glutamina no tratamento de lesões de isquemia e reperfusão no jejuno em eqüinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(3):246-252. Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia Veterinárias, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Ave-nida Antônio Carlos 6627, Caixa Postal 567, Belo Horizonte, MG 30123-970, Brazil. E-mail: geanepagliosa@gmail.com Under general anesthesia and arterial pressure control, twelve horses were submitted simultaneously to intraluminal distension and venous ischemia of jejune for 2 hours, followed by 12 hours of reperfusion. Six horses were treated with intravenous 2% glutamine (50mg/kg), and six others were treated with the same volume of saline solution 1h after the beginning of ischemia and 6 hours after reperfusion. Intestinal samples were collected before and after 2 hours of ischemia and after 2 and 12 hours of reperfusion, and were submitted to hystopatological analyses, ultrastructural examination, measurement of area and number of villi per mm2, and to myeloperoxidases activity. No statistical differences between the groups were found. It was concluded that glutamine did not attenuate the ischemia and reperfusion lesions under the methodology used in this study.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Martins I.V.F., Verocai G.G., Correia T.R., Melo R.M.P.S., Pereira M.J.S., Scott F.B. & Grisi L. 2009. Survey on control and management practices of equine helminths infection. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(3):253-257. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Centro de Ciências Agrárias, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Cx. Postal 16, Alegre, ES 29500-000, Brazil. E-mail: isabella@cca.ufes.br Twenty-nine stud farms were selected in the Medium Paraíba region of the Rio de Janeiro state, Brazil. After an interview with the person responsible for the animals, faecal samples were collected from mares and analyzed via the EPG technique, faecal cultures, Sedimentation-centrifugo-flotation, and modified Ueno and Baermann techniques. The prevalence of helminths in the mares and in the stud farms was calculated. The stocking rates of pasture, change of horse bedding, absence of pasture rotation, absence of technology in the property, and less frequent treatment of the animals were associated with a greater prevalence of helminths, showing that these variables must be considered in equine control programs. The intensity of the parasitism was also associated with the stocking rate of pasture, absence of dunghill, presence of the animals only in paddocks, lack of technology in the property, less frequent treatment of the animals, and absence of the use of rotation regarding the anthelmintic class.

• Control practices management helminths treatment horses

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Martins I.V.F., Verocai G.G., Correia T.R., Melo R.M.P.S., Pereira M.J.S., Scott F.B. & Grisi L. 2009. Survey on control and management practices of equine helminths infection. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(3):253-257. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Centro de Ciências Agrárias, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Cx. Postal 16, Alegre, ES 29500-000, Brazil. E-mail: isabella@cca.ufes.br Twenty-nine stud farms were selected in the Medium Paraíba region of the Rio de Janeiro state, Brazil. After an interview with the person responsible for the animals, faecal samples were collected from mares and analyzed via the EPG technique, faecal cultures, Sedimentation-centrifugo-flotation, and modified Ueno and Baermann techniques. The prevalence of helminths in the mares and in the stud farms was calculated. The stocking rates of pasture, change of horse bedding, absence of pasture rotation, absence of technology in the property, and less frequent treatment of the animals were associated with a greater prevalence of helminths, showing that these variables must be considered in equine control programs. The intensity of the parasitism was also associated with the stocking rate of pasture, absence of dunghill, presence of the animals only in paddocks, lack of technology in the property, less frequent treatment of the animals, and absence of the use of rotation regarding the anthelmintic class.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Barbosa J.D., Dutra. M.D. Oliveira C.M.C., Silveira J.A.S., Albernaz. T.T. & Cerqueira V.D. 2009. [Outbreak of tetanus in bufalloes (Buballus bubalis) in Pará, Brazil.] Surto de tétano em búfalos (Buballus bubalis) no Estado do Pará. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(3):263-266. Central de Diagnóstico Veterinário, Universidade Federal do Pará, Rua Maximino Porpino da Silva 1000, Pirapora, Castanhal, PA 68743-080, Brazil. E-mail: diomedes@ufpa.br An outbreak of tetanus in Murrah buffaloes in Belém, state of Pará, Brazil, is described. The outbreak was observed in a flock of 250 buffaloes, 80 of which were vaccinated intra-muscularly in the croup against rabies. Four buffaloes fell ill 15 to 19 days after vaccination, one died after a clinical course of 2 days, one was submitted to euthanasia in extremis on the 7th day after the onset of symptoms, and two others recovered within 2 weeks after treatment with penicillin for 4 days and anti-tetanic serum. The first symptoms observed were prolapse of the third eyelid, especially when the animal was stimulated, followed by a rigid walk, as difficulty in inflexing the members and lateral recumbence with the members extended, besides very open eyelids, sialorrhea, hyperexcitability, erect ears and slight lockjaw, and food accumulation in the oral cavity. At post-mortem examination was found a focus of yellowish pus in the croup muscles, where the vaccine had been applied. At histopathology no significant alterations in internal organs were observed. Based on the clinical picture, the epidemic data and absence of histological lesions, the diagnosis of tetanus was established. The infection was considered to be due to the use of dirty needles used during vaccination.

• Buffaloes tetanus Pará

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Barbosa J.D., Dutra. M.D. Oliveira C.M.C., Silveira J.A.S., Albernaz. T.T. & Cerqueira V.D. 2009. [Outbreak of tetanus in bufalloes (Buballus bubalis) in Pará, Brazil.] Surto de tétano em búfalos (Buballus bubalis) no Estado do Pará. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(3):263-266. Central de Diagnóstico Veterinário, Universidade Federal do Pará, Rua Maximino Porpino da Silva 1000, Pirapora, Castanhal, PA 68743-080, Brazil. E-mail: diomedes@ufpa.br An outbreak of tetanus in Murrah buffaloes in Belém, state of Pará, Brazil, is described. The outbreak was observed in a flock of 250 buffaloes, 80 of which were vaccinated intra-muscularly in the croup against rabies. Four buffaloes fell ill 15 to 19 days after vaccination, one died after a clinical course of 2 days, one was submitted to euthanasia in extremis on the 7th day after the onset of symptoms, and two others recovered within 2 weeks after treatment with penicillin for 4 days and anti-tetanic serum. The first symptoms observed were prolapse of the third eyelid, especially when the animal was stimulated, followed by a rigid walk, as difficulty in inflexing the members and lateral recumbence with the members extended, besides very open eyelids, sialorrhea, hyperexcitability, erect ears and slight lockjaw, and food accumulation in the oral cavity. At post-mortem examination was found a focus of yellowish pus in the croup muscles, where the vaccine had been applied. At histopathology no significant alterations in internal organs were observed. Based on the clinical picture, the epidemic data and absence of histological lesions, the diagnosis of tetanus was established. The infection was considered to be due to the use of dirty needles used during vaccination.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Fontana P.A., Zanuzzi C.N., Barbeito C.G., Gimeno E.J. & Portiansky E.L. 2009. Thymic atrophy in cattle poisoned with Solanum glaucophyllum. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(3):266-274. Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, Calle 60 y 118, 1900 La Plata, Argentina. E-mail: elporti@fcv.unlp.edu.ar Solanum glaucophyllum (Sg) [= S. malacoxylon] is a calcinogenic plant inducing “Enzootic Calcinosis” in cattle. The 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3, its main toxic principle, regulates bone and calcium metabolism and also exerts immunomodulatory effects. Thymocyte precursors from bone marrow-derived progenitor cells differentiate into mature T-cells. Differentiation of most T lymphocytes is characterized not only by the variable expression of CD4/CD8 receptor molecules and increased surface density of the T cell antigen receptor, but also by changes in the glycosylation pattern of cell surface glycolipids or glycoproteins. Thymocytes exert a feedback influence on thymic non-lymphoid cells. Sg-induced modifications on cattle thymus T-lymphocytes and on non-lymphoid cells were analysed. Heifers were divided into 5 groups (control, intoxicated with Sg during 15, 30 or 60 days, and probably recovered group). Histochemical, immunohistochemical, lectinhistochemical and morphometric techniques were used to characterize different cell populations of the experimental heifers. Sg-poisoned heifers showed a progressive cortical atrophy that was characterized using the peanut agglutinin (PNA) lectin that recognizes immature thymocytes. These animals also increased the amount of non-lymphoid cells per unit area detected with the Picrosirius technique, WGA and DBA lectins, and pancytokeratin and S-100 antibodies. The thymus atrophy found in intoxicated animals resembled that of the physiological aging process. A reversal effect on these changes was observed after suppression of the intoxication. These findings suggest that Sg-intoxication induces either directly, through the 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 itself, or indirectly through the hypercalcemia, the observed alteration of the thymus.

• Calcinosis; calcitriol cattle immunohistochemistry lectinhistochemistry plant poisoning Solanum glaucophyllum S. malacoxylon thymus gland

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Fontana P.A., Zanuzzi C.N., Barbeito C.G., Gimeno E.J. & Portiansky E.L. 2009. Thymic atrophy in cattle poisoned with Solanum glaucophyllum. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(3):266-274. Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, Calle 60 y 118, 1900 La Plata, Argentina. E-mail: elporti@fcv.unlp.edu.ar Solanum glaucophyllum (Sg) [= S. malacoxylon] is a calcinogenic plant inducing “Enzootic Calcinosis” in cattle. The 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3, its main toxic principle, regulates bone and calcium metabolism and also exerts immunomodulatory effects. Thymocyte precursors from bone marrow-derived progenitor cells differentiate into mature T-cells. Differentiation of most T lymphocytes is characterized not only by the variable expression of CD4/CD8 receptor molecules and increased surface density of the T cell antigen receptor, but also by changes in the glycosylation pattern of cell surface glycolipids or glycoproteins. Thymocytes exert a feedback influence on thymic non-lymphoid cells. Sg-induced modifications on cattle thymus T-lymphocytes and on non-lymphoid cells were analysed. Heifers were divided into 5 groups (control, intoxicated with Sg during 15, 30 or 60 days, and probably recovered group). Histochemical, immunohistochemical, lectinhistochemical and morphometric techniques were used to characterize different cell populations of the experimental heifers. Sg-poisoned heifers showed a progressive cortical atrophy that was characterized using the peanut agglutinin (PNA) lectin that recognizes immature thymocytes. These animals also increased the amount of non-lymphoid cells per unit area detected with the Picrosirius technique, WGA and DBA lectins, and pancytokeratin and S-100 antibodies. The thymus atrophy found in intoxicated animals resembled that of the physiological aging process. A reversal effect on these changes was observed after suppression of the intoxication. These findings suggest that Sg-intoxication induces either directly, through the 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 itself, or indirectly through the hypercalcemia, the observed alteration of the thymus.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Pierezan F., Rissi D.R., Rech R.R., Fighera R.A. Brum J.S. & Barros C.S.L. 2009. [Necropsy findings related to the cause of death in 335 horses: 1968-2007.] Achados de necropsia relacionados com a morte de 335 eqüinos: 1968-2007. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(3):275-280. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br The necropsy reports of 335 horses necropsied at the LPV-UFSM between 1968-2007 were reviewed in order to determine the necropsy findings related with cause of death or reason for euthanasia. The distribution of these findings by organ system were as follows: digestive (79/335 [23.6%]), striated muscle and skeleton (47/335 [14.0%]), nervous (37/335 [11.0%]), respiratory (35/335 [10.4%]), integument (31/335 [9.3%]), hematopoietic (24/335 [7.2%]), cardiovascular (13/335 [3.9%]), reproductive (12/335 [3.5%]), urinary (7/335 [2.1%]), and endocrine (3/335 [0.9%]). The cause of death was not possible to be determined in 47 (14.0%) necropsied horses. Displacements of the intestines (17/79 [21.5%]) were the main findings in digestive system, followed by obstruction and impactation (14/79 [17.7%]). Torsion were the type of displacement more frequently observed in the intestines (14/17 [82.4%]). Among those the more prevalent affected the small intestine (7/14 [50%]). Most horses dying from fractured bones were 1-5-year-old. The most prevalent diseases in the nervous system were leukoencephalo-malacia and trypanosomiasis, whereas respiratory depression due to anesthesia was the leading cause of death related to the respiratory system. Equine infectious anemia was the most diagnosed infectious disease and the main reason leading to euthanasia.

• Diseases of horses causes of death epidemiology pathology

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Pierezan F., Rissi D.R., Rech R.R., Fighera R.A. Brum J.S. & Barros C.S.L. 2009. [Necropsy findings related to the cause of death in 335 horses: 1968-2007.] Achados de necropsia relacionados com a morte de 335 eqüinos: 1968-2007. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(3):275-280. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br The necropsy reports of 335 horses necropsied at the LPV-UFSM between 1968-2007 were reviewed in order to determine the necropsy findings related with cause of death or reason for euthanasia. The distribution of these findings by organ system were as follows: digestive (79/335 [23.6%]), striated muscle and skeleton (47/335 [14.0%]), nervous (37/335 [11.0%]), respiratory (35/335 [10.4%]), integument (31/335 [9.3%]), hematopoietic (24/335 [7.2%]), cardiovascular (13/335 [3.9%]), reproductive (12/335 [3.5%]), urinary (7/335 [2.1%]), and endocrine (3/335 [0.9%]). The cause of death was not possible to be determined in 47 (14.0%) necropsied horses. Displacements of the intestines (17/79 [21.5%]) were the main findings in digestive system, followed by obstruction and impactation (14/79 [17.7%]). Torsion were the type of displacement more frequently observed in the intestines (14/17 [82.4%]). Among those the more prevalent affected the small intestine (7/14 [50%]). Most horses dying from fractured bones were 1-5-year-old. The most prevalent diseases in the nervous system were leukoencephalo-malacia and trypanosomiasis, whereas respiratory depression due to anesthesia was the leading cause of death related to the respiratory system. Equine infectious anemia was the most diagnosed infectious disease and the main reason leading to euthanasia.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Cunha N.C., Fonseca A.H., Rezende J., Rozental T., Favacho A.R.M., Barreira J.D., Massard C.L., Lemos E.R.S. 2009. First identification of natural infection of Rickettsia rickettsii in the Rhipicephalus sanguineus tick, in the State of Rio de Janeiro. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(2):105-108. Curso de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Veterinárias, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil. E-mail: adivaldo@ufrrj.br The Brazilian Spotted Fever (BSF) is a zoonotic disease caused by Rickettsia rickettsii and transmitted by ticks of the genus Amblyomma, more frequently, Amblyomma cajennense. The aim of this paper was to report the first molecular detection of R. rickettsii on R. sanguineus naturally infected in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Ticks were collected from dogs in a rural region of Resende municipality, Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil (22o 30min 9.46sec S, 44o 42min 44.29sec WO), where occurred five human cases of BSF in 2006. The ticks were identified under a stereoscopic microscope and separated in pools by stages, species and sex. DNA extraction was carried out using QIAamp DNA Mini Kit (QIAGEN®). The DNA was submitted to PCR amplification using 04 set of primers: Rr190.70p/Rr190.602n (OmpA, 532bp), BG1-21/BG2-20 (OmpB, 650bp), Tz15/Tz16 (17 kDa protein-encoding gene, 246bp) and RpCS.877p/RpCS.1258n (gltA, 381bp). PCR products were separated by electrophoresis on 1% agarose gels and visualized under ultraviolet light with ethidium bromide. PCR products of the expected sizes were purified by QIAquick® and sequenced by ABI PRISM®. The generated nucleotide sequences were edited with using Bioedit® software and compared with the corresponding homologous sequences available through GenBank, using Discontiguous Mega Blast (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov). It was confirmed R. rickettsii by sequencing of the material (GenBank FJ356230). The molecular characterization of R. rickettsii in the tick R. sanguineus emphasizes the role of dogs as carriers of ticks from the environment to home. Moreover, this result suggests that there is a considerable chance for active participation of R. sanguineus as one of tick species in the transmission of R. ricketsii to human being in the Brazilian territory.

• Rhipicephalus sanguineus Acari Ixodidae Rickettsia rickettsii molecular analysis Brazilian spotted fever

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Cunha N.C., Fonseca A.H., Rezende J., Rozental T., Favacho A.R.M., Barreira J.D., Massard C.L., Lemos E.R.S. 2009. First identification of natural infection of Rickettsia rickettsii in the Rhipicephalus sanguineus tick, in the State of Rio de Janeiro. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(2):105-108. Curso de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Veterinárias, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil. E-mail: adivaldo@ufrrj.br The Brazilian Spotted Fever (BSF) is a zoonotic disease caused by Rickettsia rickettsii and transmitted by ticks of the genus Amblyomma, more frequently, Amblyomma cajennense. The aim of this paper was to report the first molecular detection of R. rickettsii on R. sanguineus naturally infected in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Ticks were collected from dogs in a rural region of Resende municipality, Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil (22o 30min 9.46sec S, 44o 42min 44.29sec WO), where occurred five human cases of BSF in 2006. The ticks were identified under a stereoscopic microscope and separated in pools by stages, species and sex. DNA extraction was carried out using QIAamp DNA Mini Kit (QIAGEN®). The DNA was submitted to PCR amplification using 04 set of primers: Rr190.70p/Rr190.602n (OmpA, 532bp), BG1-21/BG2-20 (OmpB, 650bp), Tz15/Tz16 (17 kDa protein-encoding gene, 246bp) and RpCS.877p/RpCS.1258n (gltA, 381bp). PCR products were separated by electrophoresis on 1% agarose gels and visualized under ultraviolet light with ethidium bromide. PCR products of the expected sizes were purified by QIAquick® and sequenced by ABI PRISM®. The generated nucleotide sequences were edited with using Bioedit® software and compared with the corresponding homologous sequences available through GenBank, using Discontiguous Mega Blast (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov). It was confirmed R. rickettsii by sequencing of the material (GenBank FJ356230). The molecular characterization of R. rickettsii in the tick R. sanguineus emphasizes the role of dogs as carriers of ticks from the environment to home. Moreover, this result suggests that there is a considerable chance for active participation of R. sanguineus as one of tick species in the transmission of R. ricketsii to human being in the Brazilian territory.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Garcia D.C., Stopiglia A.J., Mingrone L.E. & Fantoni D.T. 2009. [Clinical evaluation of dogs submitted to circulatory arrest for different periods of time by “Inflow Occlusion”.] Avaliação clínica de cães submetidos à parada circulatória total por diferentes períodos de tempo através da técnica de “Inflow Occlusion”. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(2):125-130. Departamento de Cirurgia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, São Paulo, SP 05508-900, Brazil. E-mail: danielcgarcia@hotmail.com “Inflow Occlusion” technique can be used in heart surgeries when heart is required to be opened just for few minutes, to allow quick repairs. However, circulatory arrest, event occasioned by this technique, may produce serious metabolic and neurological consequences to the patient. In this study, 12 mongrel dogs were used, divided into two groups, A and B, which were submitted to 7 and 8 minutes of total circulatory arrest, respectively, using “Inflow Occlusion” technique. Normothermia was tried during surgical procedures. Clinical and behavior evaluation were performed after surgery to both groups, and biochemical data were collected to compare pre and post-operatory moments. There were two transoperatory deaths in Group B. Transitory clinical problems were observed in group A until moment M7 (48 hours after surgery), and in Group B these problems were more intense and seen even after M7; and permanent blindness in one animal of Group B was present during all follow up period. Despite all alterations found during the study, it might be safe to use “Inflow Occlusion” technique for periods up to 7 minutes, however, it is contra-indicated for longer periods.

• “Inflow Occlusion” circulatory arrest clinical evaluation dogs

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Garcia D.C., Stopiglia A.J., Mingrone L.E. & Fantoni D.T. 2009. [Clinical evaluation of dogs submitted to circulatory arrest for different periods of time by “Inflow Occlusion”.] Avaliação clínica de cães submetidos à parada circulatória total por diferentes períodos de tempo através da técnica de “Inflow Occlusion”. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(2):125-130. Departamento de Cirurgia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, São Paulo, SP 05508-900, Brazil. E-mail: danielcgarcia@hotmail.com “Inflow Occlusion” technique can be used in heart surgeries when heart is required to be opened just for few minutes, to allow quick repairs. However, circulatory arrest, event occasioned by this technique, may produce serious metabolic and neurological consequences to the patient. In this study, 12 mongrel dogs were used, divided into two groups, A and B, which were submitted to 7 and 8 minutes of total circulatory arrest, respectively, using “Inflow Occlusion” technique. Normothermia was tried during surgical procedures. Clinical and behavior evaluation were performed after surgery to both groups, and biochemical data were collected to compare pre and post-operatory moments. There were two transoperatory deaths in Group B. Transitory clinical problems were observed in group A until moment M7 (48 hours after surgery), and in Group B these problems were more intense and seen even after M7; and permanent blindness in one animal of Group B was present during all follow up period. Despite all alterations found during the study, it might be safe to use “Inflow Occlusion” technique for periods up to 7 minutes, however, it is contra-indicated for longer periods.