PESQUISA VETERINÁRIA BRASILEIRA

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Dias J.A., Alfieri, A.A., Medici, K.C., Freitas, J.C., Ferreira-Neto J.S. & Müller E.E. 2008. [Risk factors for bovine herpesvirus 1 infection in cattle herds in the West region of Parana State.] Fatores de risco associados à infecção pelo herpesvírus bovino 1 em rebanhos bovinos da região Oeste do Estado do Paraná. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(3):161-168. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Estadual de Londrina. Rodovia Celso Garcia Cid 380, Cx. Postal 6001, Londrina, PR 86051-990, Brazil. E-mail: muller@uel.br The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of positive herds and to identify the risk factors for BoHV-1 infection in breeding cattle herds in the Western region of Parana State. The statistic delineation, the serum samples and information regarding the selected farms, were the same employed in the study of bovine brucellosis for Parana State in the context of National Program for Control and Eradication of Brucellosis and Tuberculosis. The sampling was performed in two stages. Blood samples were collected from 1930 females aged ³24 months from 295 non vaccinated herds. Serum samples were tested for antibodies against BoHV-1 using an indirect ELISA. The epidemiological questionnaire was applied on all the selected farms and aimed to obtain epidemiological data. Hundred ninety of the 295 herds were positive for BoHV-1, presenting prevalence of positive herds of 64.41% [58.65-69.87%]. The number (³23) of females aged 24 months (OR=2.22; IC: 1.09-4.51), purchased cattle (OR=2.68; IC: 1.48-4.82), use of common grass (OR=5.93; IC: 1.31-26.82), history of abortion in the last 12 months (OR=2.37; IC: 1.09-5.16) and presence of wildlife animals (OR=8.86; IC: 1.11-70.73) were identified as risk factors for BoHV-1 infection in the multivariate logistic regression. These results indicate that BoHV-1 infection is widespread in the studied region and that factors related to the herd characteristic and management are associated with the infection.

• Prevalence epidemiology risk factors bovine herpesvirus 1 indirect ELISA

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Dias J.A., Alfieri, A.A., Medici, K.C., Freitas, J.C., Ferreira-Neto J.S. & Müller E.E. 2008. [Risk factors for bovine herpesvirus 1 infection in cattle herds in the West region of Parana State.] Fatores de risco associados à infecção pelo herpesvírus bovino 1 em rebanhos bovinos da região Oeste do Estado do Paraná. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(3):161-168. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Estadual de Londrina. Rodovia Celso Garcia Cid 380, Cx. Postal 6001, Londrina, PR 86051-990, Brazil. E-mail: muller@uel.br The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of positive herds and to identify the risk factors for BoHV-1 infection in breeding cattle herds in the Western region of Parana State. The statistic delineation, the serum samples and information regarding the selected farms, were the same employed in the study of bovine brucellosis for Parana State in the context of National Program for Control and Eradication of Brucellosis and Tuberculosis. The sampling was performed in two stages. Blood samples were collected from 1930 females aged ³24 months from 295 non vaccinated herds. Serum samples were tested for antibodies against BoHV-1 using an indirect ELISA. The epidemiological questionnaire was applied on all the selected farms and aimed to obtain epidemiological data. Hundred ninety of the 295 herds were positive for BoHV-1, presenting prevalence of positive herds of 64.41% [58.65-69.87%]. The number (³23) of females aged 24 months (OR=2.22; IC: 1.09-4.51), purchased cattle (OR=2.68; IC: 1.48-4.82), use of common grass (OR=5.93; IC: 1.31-26.82), history of abortion in the last 12 months (OR=2.37; IC: 1.09-5.16) and presence of wildlife animals (OR=8.86; IC: 1.11-70.73) were identified as risk factors for BoHV-1 infection in the multivariate logistic regression. These results indicate that BoHV-1 infection is widespread in the studied region and that factors related to the herd characteristic and management are associated with the infection.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Soares M.P., Quevedo P.S. & Schild A.L. 2008. [Perreyia flavipes larvae poisoning in cattle in southern Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.] Intoxicação por larvas de Perreyia flavipes em bovinos na região sul do Rio Grande do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(3):169-173. Laboratório Regional de Diagnóstico, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Campus Universitário s/n, Pelotas, RS 96010-900, Brazil. E-mail: alschild@terra.com.br Three outbreaks of poisoning by Perreyia flavipes Konow, 1899 (Hymenoptera: Pergidae) in cattle during July and August 2006 in southern Brazil are reported. The morbidity rate was 0.8%, 6.2% and 33% on the 3 farms, respectively. Fatality rate was 100%. Clinical signs were depression, jaundice, recumbence, pedaling movements and death in 24-48 hours. The liver was enlarged with increased lobular pattern, the mesenteric lymph nodes were edematous and Peyer patches of the small gut were depressed. Petechial hemorrhages and ecchymosis were observed in the mesentery and abomasum. On histologic examination the liver showed centrolobular or massive necrosis. Hemosiderosis and necrosis of the germinative centers of lymph nodes, white pulp of the spleen and Peyer patches were also observed. The poisoning occurred probably due to an intense drought in October-December 2005, when the insect stayed as a cocoon underground. The dry conditions probably avoided a higher number of adult sawflies to emerge from the cocoons, what resulted in greater egg production. The large amount of decaying grass due to almost normal rain fall during summer seemed to have provided favorable environmental conditions for the development of larvae in winter.

• Perreyia flavipes sawfly epidemiology bovine hepatic necrosis

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Soares M.P., Quevedo P.S. & Schild A.L. 2008. [Perreyia flavipes larvae poisoning in cattle in southern Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.] Intoxicação por larvas de Perreyia flavipes em bovinos na região sul do Rio Grande do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(3):169-173. Laboratório Regional de Diagnóstico, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Campus Universitário s/n, Pelotas, RS 96010-900, Brazil. E-mail: alschild@terra.com.br Three outbreaks of poisoning by Perreyia flavipes Konow, 1899 (Hymenoptera: Pergidae) in cattle during July and August 2006 in southern Brazil are reported. The morbidity rate was 0.8%, 6.2% and 33% on the 3 farms, respectively. Fatality rate was 100%. Clinical signs were depression, jaundice, recumbence, pedaling movements and death in 24-48 hours. The liver was enlarged with increased lobular pattern, the mesenteric lymph nodes were edematous and Peyer patches of the small gut were depressed. Petechial hemorrhages and ecchymosis were observed in the mesentery and abomasum. On histologic examination the liver showed centrolobular or massive necrosis. Hemosiderosis and necrosis of the germinative centers of lymph nodes, white pulp of the spleen and Peyer patches were also observed. The poisoning occurred probably due to an intense drought in October-December 2005, when the insect stayed as a cocoon underground. The dry conditions probably avoided a higher number of adult sawflies to emerge from the cocoons, what resulted in greater egg production. The large amount of decaying grass due to almost normal rain fall during summer seemed to have provided favorable environmental conditions for the development of larvae in winter.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Martins C.F., Madruga C.R., Koller W.W., Araújo F.R., Soares C.O., Kessler R.H., Melo E.S.P., Rios L.R., Almeida R.C.F., Lima Jr M.S.C., Barros A.T.M. & Marques L.C. 2008. Trypanosoma vivax infection dynamics in a cattle herd maintained in a transition area between Pantanal lowlands and highlands of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(1):51-56. Departamento de Clínica Médica da Universidade para o Desenvolvimento do Estado e da Região do Pantanal, Rua Ceará 333, Bairro Miguel Couto, Cx. Postal 2153, Campo Grande, MS 79003-010, Brazil. E-mail: claudio.madruga@pq.cnpq.br Trypanosoma vivax outbreaks in beef cattle in the Pantanal region of Mato Grosso do Sul state, Brazil, causes relevant economical impact due to weight loss, abortion and mortality. Cattle moved from the Pantanal to adjacent areas of this ecosystem for breeding and fattening is a common feature. Therefore an epidemiological study on breeding cows in the transition area between Pantanal lowland and adjacent highlands of Mato Grosso do Sul was performed to determine the T. vivax infection dynamics and outbreak risk. Three experimental groups were formed: Group 1 consisted of cows parasitologically negative by the Woo test and in the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for T. vivax antibody detection (Tv-ELISA-Ab); Group 2 parasitologically negative and positive in the Tv-ELISA-Ab; and in Group 3 cows were parasitologically positive and with positive reactions in the Tv-ELISA-Ab. During 24 months, the cows’ dislodgment between the above established groups was monitored by Woo test and Tv-ELISA-Ab exams. The tabanid population was also monitored and the highest number occurred during the rainy season. Although parasitemias were detected only in the first four samplings of the experimental period, the cows could be considered as trypanotolerant, because no clinical signs were observed. Despite the higher T. vivax incidence during the dry season, no disease symptoms were seen. Even though T. vivax epidemiological situation in the herd was characterized as endemic with seasonal variation, the probability of outbreaks was null within the conditions of the study.

• Trypanosoma (Dutonella) vivax cattle tabanids infection dynamics epidemiology

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Martins C.F., Madruga C.R., Koller W.W., Araújo F.R., Soares C.O., Kessler R.H., Melo E.S.P., Rios L.R., Almeida R.C.F., Lima Jr M.S.C., Barros A.T.M. & Marques L.C. 2008. Trypanosoma vivax infection dynamics in a cattle herd maintained in a transition area between Pantanal lowlands and highlands of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(1):51-56. Departamento de Clínica Médica da Universidade para o Desenvolvimento do Estado e da Região do Pantanal, Rua Ceará 333, Bairro Miguel Couto, Cx. Postal 2153, Campo Grande, MS 79003-010, Brazil. E-mail: claudio.madruga@pq.cnpq.br Trypanosoma vivax outbreaks in beef cattle in the Pantanal region of Mato Grosso do Sul state, Brazil, causes relevant economical impact due to weight loss, abortion and mortality. Cattle moved from the Pantanal to adjacent areas of this ecosystem for breeding and fattening is a common feature. Therefore an epidemiological study on breeding cows in the transition area between Pantanal lowland and adjacent highlands of Mato Grosso do Sul was performed to determine the T. vivax infection dynamics and outbreak risk. Three experimental groups were formed: Group 1 consisted of cows parasitologically negative by the Woo test and in the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for T. vivax antibody detection (Tv-ELISA-Ab); Group 2 parasitologically negative and positive in the Tv-ELISA-Ab; and in Group 3 cows were parasitologically positive and with positive reactions in the Tv-ELISA-Ab. During 24 months, the cows’ dislodgment between the above established groups was monitored by Woo test and Tv-ELISA-Ab exams. The tabanid population was also monitored and the highest number occurred during the rainy season. Although parasitemias were detected only in the first four samplings of the experimental period, the cows could be considered as trypanotolerant, because no clinical signs were observed. Despite the higher T. vivax incidence during the dry season, no disease symptoms were seen. Even though T. vivax epidemiological situation in the herd was characterized as endemic with seasonal variation, the probability of outbreaks was null within the conditions of the study.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Silva M.S., Brum M.C.S., Weiblen R. & Flores E.F. 2007. [Identification and differentiation of herpesvirus types 1 and 5 isolated from clinical samples in central-southern Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay (1987-2006).] Identificação e diferenciação de herpesvírus bovino tipos 1 e 5 isolados de amostras clínicas no Centro-Sul do Brasil, Argentina e Uruguai (1987-2006). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(10):403-408. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: flores@ccr.ufsm.br Bovine herpesviruses types 1 and 5 (BoHV-1; BoHV-5) are genetically and antigenically closely related such they can not be distinguished by routine diagnostic tests. As BoHV-1 has been historically associated with respiratory and genital disease, herpesviruses isolated from these clinical syndromes have been tentatively – and sometimes definitively - diagnosed as BoHV-1. Likewise, cases of herpetic neurological infection in cattle have been generally attributed to BoHV-5. This study reports the identification of 40 herpesvirus isolates from different clinical specimens and syndromes in central-southern Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay (1987-2006) by the use of a PCR able to differentiate between BoHV-1 and BoHV-5. BoHV-1 isolates (n=16) were identified in cases of respiratory disease (n=3), vulvovaginitis and/or balanoposthitis (n=3), in semen of healthy bulls (n=5) and in cases of neurological disease (n=5). Viruses identified as BoHV-5 (n=24) were isolated predominantly from cases of neurological disease (n=21), but also from semen of healthy bulls (n=2) and from a spleen of a calf with systemic disease (n=1). These results show that both BoHV-1 and BoHV-5 are not strictly associated with their respective diseases; yet are frequently involved in clinical conditions otherwise attributed to the other virus. These findings also reinforce the need of correctly identifying the herpesvirus isolates as to better understand their pathogenesis and epidemiology.

• Bovine herpesvirus BoHV-1 BoHV-5 differential diagnosis epidemiology

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Silva M.S., Brum M.C.S., Weiblen R. & Flores E.F. 2007. [Identification and differentiation of herpesvirus types 1 and 5 isolated from clinical samples in central-southern Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay (1987-2006).] Identificação e diferenciação de herpesvírus bovino tipos 1 e 5 isolados de amostras clínicas no Centro-Sul do Brasil, Argentina e Uruguai (1987-2006). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(10):403-408. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: flores@ccr.ufsm.br Bovine herpesviruses types 1 and 5 (BoHV-1; BoHV-5) are genetically and antigenically closely related such they can not be distinguished by routine diagnostic tests. As BoHV-1 has been historically associated with respiratory and genital disease, herpesviruses isolated from these clinical syndromes have been tentatively – and sometimes definitively - diagnosed as BoHV-1. Likewise, cases of herpetic neurological infection in cattle have been generally attributed to BoHV-5. This study reports the identification of 40 herpesvirus isolates from different clinical specimens and syndromes in central-southern Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay (1987-2006) by the use of a PCR able to differentiate between BoHV-1 and BoHV-5. BoHV-1 isolates (n=16) were identified in cases of respiratory disease (n=3), vulvovaginitis and/or balanoposthitis (n=3), in semen of healthy bulls (n=5) and in cases of neurological disease (n=5). Viruses identified as BoHV-5 (n=24) were isolated predominantly from cases of neurological disease (n=21), but also from semen of healthy bulls (n=2) and from a spleen of a calf with systemic disease (n=1). These results show that both BoHV-1 and BoHV-5 are not strictly associated with their respective diseases; yet are frequently involved in clinical conditions otherwise attributed to the other virus. These findings also reinforce the need of correctly identifying the herpesvirus isolates as to better understand their pathogenesis and epidemiology.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Julião F.S., Souza B.M.P.S., Freitas D.S.,Oliveira L.S., Larangeira D.F., Dias-Lima A.G.,Souza V.M.M., Barrouin-Melo S.M., Moreira Jr E.D., Paule B.J.A. & Franke C.R. 2007. [Investigation of risk areas as complemental methodology for the control of canine visceral leishmaniasis.] Investigação de áreas de risco como metodologia complementar ao controle da leishmaniose visceral canina. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(8):319-324. Laboratório de Infectologia Veterinária, Escola de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Av. Adhemar de Barros 500, Ondina, Salvador, BA 40170-110, Brazil. E-mail: franke@ufba.br Risk areas of canine visceral leishmaniasis in the city of Camaçari, Bahia, Brazil, were investigated. A total of 278 dogs from 141 homes pertaining to 20 investigated risk areas was serologically screened (ELISA). The general seroprevalence was 21.7% (56/258) after exclusion of 20 dogs used at the beginning of the survey to limit the study area. The respective results of the univariated and multivariated analysis of factors related to infection of dogs by Leishmania chagasi, to vector distribu-tion pattern in the area and to the methodology used to localize the canine focuses are discussed.

• Visceral leishmaniasis Leishmania infantum Lutzomyia longipalpis control dogs epidemiology Brazil

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Julião F.S., Souza B.M.P.S., Freitas D.S.,Oliveira L.S., Larangeira D.F., Dias-Lima A.G.,Souza V.M.M., Barrouin-Melo S.M., Moreira Jr E.D., Paule B.J.A. & Franke C.R. 2007. [Investigation of risk areas as complemental methodology for the control of canine visceral leishmaniasis.] Investigação de áreas de risco como metodologia complementar ao controle da leishmaniose visceral canina. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(8):319-324. Laboratório de Infectologia Veterinária, Escola de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Av. Adhemar de Barros 500, Ondina, Salvador, BA 40170-110, Brazil. E-mail: franke@ufba.br Risk areas of canine visceral leishmaniasis in the city of Camaçari, Bahia, Brazil, were investigated. A total of 278 dogs from 141 homes pertaining to 20 investigated risk areas was serologically screened (ELISA). The general seroprevalence was 21.7% (56/258) after exclusion of 20 dogs used at the beginning of the survey to limit the study area. The respective results of the univariated and multivariated analysis of factors related to infection of dogs by Leishmania chagasi, to vector distribu-tion pattern in the area and to the methodology used to localize the canine focuses are discussed.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Rissi D.R., Rech R.R., Pierezan F., Gabriel A.L., Trost M.E., Brum J.S., Kommers G.D. & Barros C.S.L. 2007. [Plant and plant-associated mycotoxins poisoning in cattle in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil: 461 cases.] Intoxicações por plantas e micotoxinas associadas a plantas em bovinos no Rio Grande do Sul: 461 casos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(7):261-268. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br From 1990 to 2005, tissues from 2,912 cattle necropsies were examined at the Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology (LPV) of the Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM), Brazil. These tissues came from necropsies performed by faculty members of the LPV or were mailed-in samples from necropsy performed by veterinarian practitioners. In 461 (15.83%) of these necropsies the cause of death was attributed to the ingestion of poisonous plants. In decreasing order of frequency poisoning by the following plants were registered: Senecio spp (56.14%), Pteridium aquilinum (12.06%), Ateleia glazioviana (10.31%), Solanum fastigiatum (5.04%), Baccharis coridifolia (3.29%), Xanthium cavanillesii (3.07%), Senna occidentalis (2.63%), Ramaria flavo-brunnescens (2.41%), Amaranthus spp (2.19%), Vicia villosa (1.54%), Ipomoea batatas, Prunus sellowii, cytrus pulp (0.44% each), Cestrum parqui, Claviceps paspali, Claviceps purpurea, Brachiaria spp and Lantana sp (0.22% each). In a given outbreak the number of affected cattle was substantially higher than the number of necropsies performed. The following aspects are discussed for each plant: geographical distribution; factors inducing ingestion; morbidity, mortality and lethality rates, clinical signs, necropsy findings, histopathology. For those plants in which information on the active principle and pathogenesis are available, these aspects are included in the discussion.

• Poisonous plants epidemiology cattle diseases

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Rissi D.R., Rech R.R., Pierezan F., Gabriel A.L., Trost M.E., Brum J.S., Kommers G.D. & Barros C.S.L. 2007. [Plant and plant-associated mycotoxins poisoning in cattle in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil: 461 cases.] Intoxicações por plantas e micotoxinas associadas a plantas em bovinos no Rio Grande do Sul: 461 casos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(7):261-268. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br From 1990 to 2005, tissues from 2,912 cattle necropsies were examined at the Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology (LPV) of the Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM), Brazil. These tissues came from necropsies performed by faculty members of the LPV or were mailed-in samples from necropsy performed by veterinarian practitioners. In 461 (15.83%) of these necropsies the cause of death was attributed to the ingestion of poisonous plants. In decreasing order of frequency poisoning by the following plants were registered: Senecio spp (56.14%), Pteridium aquilinum (12.06%), Ateleia glazioviana (10.31%), Solanum fastigiatum (5.04%), Baccharis coridifolia (3.29%), Xanthium cavanillesii (3.07%), Senna occidentalis (2.63%), Ramaria flavo-brunnescens (2.41%), Amaranthus spp (2.19%), Vicia villosa (1.54%), Ipomoea batatas, Prunus sellowii, cytrus pulp (0.44% each), Cestrum parqui, Claviceps paspali, Claviceps purpurea, Brachiaria spp and Lantana sp (0.22% each). In a given outbreak the number of affected cattle was substantially higher than the number of necropsies performed. The following aspects are discussed for each plant: geographical distribution; factors inducing ingestion; morbidity, mortality and lethality rates, clinical signs, necropsy findings, histopathology. For those plants in which information on the active principle and pathogenesis are available, these aspects are included in the discussion.

Abstract in English:

Abstract.- Gomes M.N., Monteiro A.M.V., Nogueira Filho V.S. & Gonçalves C.A. 2007. [Areas prone for vampire bat (Desmodus rotundus) attack on cattle in the São João da Boa Vista region, State of São Paulo.] Áreas propícias para o ataque de morcegos hematófagos em bovinos na região de São João da Boa Vista, Estado de São Paulo. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(7):307-313. Instituto Nacional de Pesquisas Espaciais, Cx. Postal 515, São José dos Campos, SP 12201-970, Brazil. E-mail: murilong@dpi.inpe.br Supported by previous studies that selected areas prone for the development of Desmodus rotundus roosts and bovine rabies transmitted by vampire bats in São Paulo state, the Department of Agriculture of the State of São Paulo (CDA) has conducted interventions for bovine rabies control in areas mostly close to the main rivers of surveillance regions. Inquiries of the actual concepts led to the development of a descriptive model to analyze the vampire bat Desmodus rotundus attacks on cattle far beyond main rivers and water streams in the São João da Boa Vista region, São Paulo state. The model was elaborated using satellite images classification, parameters from previous studies about vampire bats behaviour, data from the CDA and the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE). All this information was used to build a geographical database and integrate in a Geographical Information System then analyzed through spatial statistical and analytical methods. The results showed that areas close to the main rivers of the towns Aguaí, Casa Branca, Santa Cruz das Palmeiras and Tambaú were found not to be under risk of bat attacks, suggesting that the hypothesis behind the CDA control areas definition does not hold when contracted with the obtained spatial data. The results indicate that the technicians from CDA need to reformulate their strategy for defining the surveillance of vampire bat populations and rabies control.

• Epidemiology rabies Desmodus rotundus GIS remote sensing

Abstract in Portuguese:

Abstract.- Gomes M.N., Monteiro A.M.V., Nogueira Filho V.S. & Gonçalves C.A. 2007. [Areas prone for vampire bat (Desmodus rotundus) attack on cattle in the São João da Boa Vista region, State of São Paulo.] Áreas propícias para o ataque de morcegos hematófagos em bovinos na região de São João da Boa Vista, Estado de São Paulo. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(7):307-313. Instituto Nacional de Pesquisas Espaciais, Cx. Postal 515, São José dos Campos, SP 12201-970, Brazil. E-mail: murilong@dpi.inpe.br Supported by previous studies that selected areas prone for the development of Desmodus rotundus roosts and bovine rabies transmitted by vampire bats in São Paulo state, the Department of Agriculture of the State of São Paulo (CDA) has conducted interventions for bovine rabies control in areas mostly close to the main rivers of surveillance regions. Inquiries of the actual concepts led to the development of a descriptive model to analyze the vampire bat Desmodus rotundus attacks on cattle far beyond main rivers and water streams in the São João da Boa Vista region, São Paulo state. The model was elaborated using satellite images classification, parameters from previous studies about vampire bats behaviour, data from the CDA and the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE). All this information was used to build a geographical database and integrate in a Geographical Information System then analyzed through spatial statistical and analytical methods. The results showed that areas close to the main rivers of the towns Aguaí, Casa Branca, Santa Cruz das Palmeiras and Tambaú were found not to be under risk of bat attacks, suggesting that the hypothesis behind the CDA control areas definition does not hold when contracted with the obtained spatial data. The results indicate that the technicians from CDA need to reformulate their strategy for defining the surveillance of vampire bat populations and rabies control.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Silva S.M.M.S., Castro R.S., Costa F.A.L., Vasconcelos A.C., Batista M.C.S., Riet-Correa F. & Carvalho E.M.S. 2007. [Epidemiology and symptoms of conidiobolomycosis in sheep in the State of Piauí, Brazil.] Epidemiologia e sinais clínicos da conidiobolomicose em ovinos no Estado do Piauí. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(4):184-190. Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia, Centro de Ciências Agrárias, Universidade Federal do Piauí, Campus da Socopo s/n, Teresina, PI 64049-550, Brazil. E-mail: silvanammss@ufpi.br Conidiobolomycosis is reported in 25 farms, from January 2002 to December 2004, in the state of Piauí. The disease affects only sheep, mainly in April-June. The mean morbidity rate was 2.80%, but was higher in the first semester (2.1%), during the raining period, than in the second one (0.69%), during the dry period. Morbidity rate among flocks varied from 0.1-14.3%. Case fatality rate was 100%, and the clinical manifestation period varied from 1-5 weeks. Clinical signs were serous, mucous and/or bloody nasal secretion, respiratory distress, snoring respiration, cranium-facial asymmetry, exophthalmia, fever and progressive emaciation. Marked depression, sometimes with the head down or head pressing was observed in some cases. Gross, microscopic and ultrastructural lesions and identification of the agent are reported elsewhere. This is the first report of conidiobolomycosis in Brazil, which is endemic and has a high frequency in sheep in the State of Piauí, associated with high rainfalls (1000-1600mm annually) and high temperature (19-36°C).

• Conidiobolomycosis Conidiobolus coronatus zygomycosis clinical signs epidemiology sheep

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Silva S.M.M.S., Castro R.S., Costa F.A.L., Vasconcelos A.C., Batista M.C.S., Riet-Correa F. & Carvalho E.M.S. 2007. [Epidemiology and symptoms of conidiobolomycosis in sheep in the State of Piauí, Brazil.] Epidemiologia e sinais clínicos da conidiobolomicose em ovinos no Estado do Piauí. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(4):184-190. Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia, Centro de Ciências Agrárias, Universidade Federal do Piauí, Campus da Socopo s/n, Teresina, PI 64049-550, Brazil. E-mail: silvanammss@ufpi.br Conidiobolomycosis is reported in 25 farms, from January 2002 to December 2004, in the state of Piauí. The disease affects only sheep, mainly in April-June. The mean morbidity rate was 2.80%, but was higher in the first semester (2.1%), during the raining period, than in the second one (0.69%), during the dry period. Morbidity rate among flocks varied from 0.1-14.3%. Case fatality rate was 100%, and the clinical manifestation period varied from 1-5 weeks. Clinical signs were serous, mucous and/or bloody nasal secretion, respiratory distress, snoring respiration, cranium-facial asymmetry, exophthalmia, fever and progressive emaciation. Marked depression, sometimes with the head down or head pressing was observed in some cases. Gross, microscopic and ultrastructural lesions and identification of the agent are reported elsewhere. This is the first report of conidiobolomycosis in Brazil, which is endemic and has a high frequency in sheep in the State of Piauí, associated with high rainfalls (1000-1600mm annually) and high temperature (19-36°C).

Abstract in English:

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

• Brucellosis cattle epidemiology seroprevalence

Abstract in Portuguese:

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

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Almeida M.B., Tortelli F.P., Riet-Correa B., Ferreira J.L.M., Soares M.P., Farias N.A.R., Riet-Correa F. & Schild A.L. 2006. [Tick fever in southern Brazil: a retrospective study of 1978-2005.] Tristeza parasitária bovina na região sul do Rio Grande do Sul: estudo retrospectivo de 1978-2005. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(4):236-242. Laboratório Regional de Diagnóstico, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Campus Universitário s/n, Pelotas, RS 96010-900, Brazil. E-mail: alschild@terra.com.br A retrospective study of tick fever was made, which occurred from 1978-2005 in southern Rio Grande do Sul in the influence area of the Regional Diagnostic Laboratory of the Federal University of Pelotas. From 4,884 cattle specimens, sent by practitioners or which were from necropsies performed at the Diagnostic Laboratory, 231 (4.7%) were diagnosed as tick fever. Data from 221 of those outbreaks were analyzed. Ninety one (41.1%) outbreaks were caused by Babesia bovis, 11 (4.9%) by Babesia bigemina, and 65 (29.41%) by Anaplasma marginale. In other 33 (14.93%) outbreaks of babesiosis there is no information if the disease was caused by B. bovis or B. bigemina, and 21 (9.5%) outbreaks were caused by mixed infection of A. marginale and B. bovis or B. bigemina. Mean morbidity, mortality, and letality rates in 149 outbreaks were 11.17%, 6.81%, and 70.04%, respectively. Most outbreaks occurred during summer (January-March) and autumn (April-June), mainly in 1 to 3-year-old cattle. Clinical signs were depression, weakness, fallen ears, fever, and weight loss. Low packed cell volume values were always found. Hemoglobinury was observed in babesiosis. Neurological signs characterized by gait alterations, muscular tremors, aggressiveness and falling down with tonic and clonic convulsions were observed in babesiosis by B. bovis. The main gross lesions were anemia, jaundice, splenomegaly, hepatomegaly, yellow liver and cardiac hemorrhages. Hemoglobinury was observed in babesiosis, and congestion of the cerebral cortex in babesiosis by B. bovis. It is concluded that B. bovis is the main agent causing thick fever in southern Rio Grande do Sul. In that region with a cattle population of 2,630,000 heads the annual losses due to tick fever can be estimated in 6,220 cattle or US$ 1,623,000.00. Preventive measures to diminish tick fever losses in the region are necessary.

• Parasitic diseases tick fever epidemiology Babesia bovis Babesia bigemina Anaplasma marginale

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Almeida M.B., Tortelli F.P., Riet-Correa B., Ferreira J.L.M., Soares M.P., Farias N.A.R., Riet-Correa F. & Schild A.L. 2006. [Tick fever in southern Brazil: a retrospective study of 1978-2005.] Tristeza parasitária bovina na região sul do Rio Grande do Sul: estudo retrospectivo de 1978-2005. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(4):236-242. Laboratório Regional de Diagnóstico, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Campus Universitário s/n, Pelotas, RS 96010-900, Brazil. E-mail: alschild@terra.com.br A retrospective study of tick fever was made, which occurred from 1978-2005 in southern Rio Grande do Sul in the influence area of the Regional Diagnostic Laboratory of the Federal University of Pelotas. From 4,884 cattle specimens, sent by practitioners or which were from necropsies performed at the Diagnostic Laboratory, 231 (4.7%) were diagnosed as tick fever. Data from 221 of those outbreaks were analyzed. Ninety one (41.1%) outbreaks were caused by Babesia bovis, 11 (4.9%) by Babesia bigemina, and 65 (29.41%) by Anaplasma marginale. In other 33 (14.93%) outbreaks of babesiosis there is no information if the disease was caused by B. bovis or B. bigemina, and 21 (9.5%) outbreaks were caused by mixed infection of A. marginale and B. bovis or B. bigemina. Mean morbidity, mortality, and letality rates in 149 outbreaks were 11.17%, 6.81%, and 70.04%, respectively. Most outbreaks occurred during summer (January-March) and autumn (April-June), mainly in 1 to 3-year-old cattle. Clinical signs were depression, weakness, fallen ears, fever, and weight loss. Low packed cell volume values were always found. Hemoglobinury was observed in babesiosis. Neurological signs characterized by gait alterations, muscular tremors, aggressiveness and falling down with tonic and clonic convulsions were observed in babesiosis by B. bovis. The main gross lesions were anemia, jaundice, splenomegaly, hepatomegaly, yellow liver and cardiac hemorrhages. Hemoglobinury was observed in babesiosis, and congestion of the cerebral cortex in babesiosis by B. bovis. It is concluded that B. bovis is the main agent causing thick fever in southern Rio Grande do Sul. In that region with a cattle population of 2,630,000 heads the annual losses due to tick fever can be estimated in 6,220 cattle or US$ 1,623,000.00. Preventive measures to diminish tick fever losses in the region are necessary.