PESQUISA VETERINÁRIA BRASILEIRA

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Boghossian M.R., Peixoto P.V., Brito M.F. & Tokarnia C.H. 2007. [Experimental poisoning by Crotalaria mucronata (Fabaceae) seeds in cattle.] Aspectos clínico-patológicos da intoxicação experimental pelas sementes de Crotalaria mucronata (Fabaceae) em bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(4):149-156. Projeto Sanidade Animal Embrapa/UFRRJ, Seropédica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil. E-mail: mailto:mubogho@hotmail.com Experiments were performed to define the clinical and pathological picture of prolonged administration of the seeds of Crotalaria mucronata Desv. to cattle, in order to obtain additional information about this toxicosis. The ground seeds were administered orally to 9 bovines. Doses of 1g/kg/day, 2g/kg/day, 3g/kg/day each in one bovine, and 5g/kg/day in two of three bovines, given for 61- 63 days, did not cause poisoning. Doses of 5g/kg, in one bovine, 7.5g/kg in two bovines and 10g/kg in one bovine, given for 47-61 days, caused symptoms between 47 and 80 days after the first administration and caused death between 3 hours and 5 days after the onset of symptoms. The main clinical signs were positive venous pulse of the jugular vein, abdominal breath, tachycardia, loss of appetite, dry feces, sub-mandibular edema and weakness. Bovines that did not die, were slaughtered 8 or 9 months after first administration. At necropsy pulmonary paleness, hydropericardium, hydrothorax, hydroperitoneum, mesenteric edema, augmented hepatic consistency, discoloration of the liver, right cardiac ventricle dilatation and ruminal wall edema were seen. The main histological lesions were thickening of the alveolar walls and of the arterioles with narrowing of their lumen, and periarteriolar fibrosis, besides hepatic and cardiac lesions of minor importance. It is concluded, that the lesions caused by ingestion of the seeds of C. mucronata over a long period are caused by the difficulties of blood passage through the pulmonar vessels due to fibrosis and thickening of the arteriolar walls through the pneumotoxic action of the plant.

• Poisonous plants Crotalaria mucronata pyrrolizidine alkaloids interstitial pneumonia

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Boghossian M.R., Peixoto P.V., Brito M.F. & Tokarnia C.H. 2007. [Experimental poisoning by Crotalaria mucronata (Fabaceae) seeds in cattle.] Aspectos clínico-patológicos da intoxicação experimental pelas sementes de Crotalaria mucronata (Fabaceae) em bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(4):149-156. Projeto Sanidade Animal Embrapa/UFRRJ, Seropédica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil. E-mail: mailto:mubogho@hotmail.com Experiments were performed to define the clinical and pathological picture of prolonged administration of the seeds of Crotalaria mucronata Desv. to cattle, in order to obtain additional information about this toxicosis. The ground seeds were administered orally to 9 bovines. Doses of 1g/kg/day, 2g/kg/day, 3g/kg/day each in one bovine, and 5g/kg/day in two of three bovines, given for 61- 63 days, did not cause poisoning. Doses of 5g/kg, in one bovine, 7.5g/kg in two bovines and 10g/kg in one bovine, given for 47-61 days, caused symptoms between 47 and 80 days after the first administration and caused death between 3 hours and 5 days after the onset of symptoms. The main clinical signs were positive venous pulse of the jugular vein, abdominal breath, tachycardia, loss of appetite, dry feces, sub-mandibular edema and weakness. Bovines that did not die, were slaughtered 8 or 9 months after first administration. At necropsy pulmonary paleness, hydropericardium, hydrothorax, hydroperitoneum, mesenteric edema, augmented hepatic consistency, discoloration of the liver, right cardiac ventricle dilatation and ruminal wall edema were seen. The main histological lesions were thickening of the alveolar walls and of the arterioles with narrowing of their lumen, and periarteriolar fibrosis, besides hepatic and cardiac lesions of minor importance. It is concluded, that the lesions caused by ingestion of the seeds of C. mucronata over a long period are caused by the difficulties of blood passage through the pulmonar vessels due to fibrosis and thickening of the arteriolar walls through the pneumotoxic action of the plant.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Oliveira K.D., França T.N., Nogueira V.A. & Peixoto P.V. 2006. [Diseases associated with selenium poisoning in animals.] Enfermidades associadas à intoxicação por selênio em animais. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(4):125-136. Departamento de Nutrição Animal e Pastagem, Instituto de Zootecnia, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil. E-mail: krishna.oliveira@uvv.br Trough a critical literature review, the main data of selenium poisoning in domestic animals are presented. Epidemiological, clinical, anatomic and histopathological aspects attributed to Alkali Disease, Blind Staggers, acute poisoning and focal symmetrical poliomielomalacia of swine are discussed. The main objective of the paper is to clarify obscure points of selenium poisoning, as well to point out the risks that supplementation with this element can represent.

• Selenium poisoning alkali disease blind staggers focal symmetrical poliomielomalacia

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Oliveira K.D., França T.N., Nogueira V.A. & Peixoto P.V. 2006. [Diseases associated with selenium poisoning in animals.] Enfermidades associadas à intoxicação por selênio em animais. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(4):125-136. Departamento de Nutrição Animal e Pastagem, Instituto de Zootecnia, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil. E-mail: krishna.oliveira@uvv.br Trough a critical literature review, the main data of selenium poisoning in domestic animals are presented. Epidemiological, clinical, anatomic and histopathological aspects attributed to Alkali Disease, Blind Staggers, acute poisoning and focal symmetrical poliomielomalacia of swine are discussed. The main objective of the paper is to clarify obscure points of selenium poisoning, as well to point out the risks that supplementation with this element can represent.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Esposto E.M., Silva W.C.P., Reis C.M.F., Reis E.M.F., Ribeiro R.V., Rodrigues D.P. & Lázaro N.S. 2007. [Bacterial enteropathogens from fishes of a nutrient recycle system and its ecosystem.] Enteropatógenos bacterianos em peixes criados em uma estação de reciclagem de nutrientes e no ecossistema relacionado. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(4):144-148. Departamento de Bacteriologia, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, FIOCruz, Av. Brasil 4365, Pav. Rocha Lima, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 21040-360, Brazil. E- mail: nslazaro@ioc.fiocruz.br The presence of bacterial enteropathogens from fishes of a nutrient recycle system from a Experimental Station in Petropolis, RJ, was evaluated in 72 samples from april 2000 to july 2001 Simultaneously was collected the mud used as organic manure and poultry beds localized next to the tanks. The isolation procedures included preenrichment in Peptone Water followed by enrichment with alcaline Peptone Water (pH 8.4-8.6), and streaked onto GSP Agar for the isolation of Aeromonas spp. and Plesiomonas shigelloides. For enteropathogenic bacteria of the Enterobacteriaceae family, 1ml samples were transferred for enrichment in Rappaport- Vassiladis broth and Kauffmann Tetrathionate Broth followed by streak onto Hektoen Enteric Agar and Salmonella-Shigella Agar. Simultaneously at each visit samples of water from fish and macrophyte tanks were collected for monitoring faecal coliforms (MPN) using A1 medium. Among the 116 isolates, Aeromonas spp. were the most frequent (67.2%) with 9 species (A. veronii, biogroup sobria, A. hidrophila, A. sobria, A. trota, A. eucrenophila, A. veronii biog. veronii, A. media, A. cavia and A. jandaei), followed by Edwardsiella tarda (16.4%), Plesiomonas shigelloides (12.9%) and Salmonella spp. (3.4%). The NMP of fecal coliforms showed higher values in the fish tanks (>1800/100ml).

• Enteropathogens wastewater fish farming

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Esposto E.M., Silva W.C.P., Reis C.M.F., Reis E.M.F., Ribeiro R.V., Rodrigues D.P. & Lázaro N.S. 2007. [Bacterial enteropathogens from fishes of a nutrient recycle system and its ecosystem.] Enteropatógenos bacterianos em peixes criados em uma estação de reciclagem de nutrientes e no ecossistema relacionado. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(4):144-148. Departamento de Bacteriologia, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, FIOCruz, Av. Brasil 4365, Pav. Rocha Lima, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 21040-360, Brazil. E- mail: nslazaro@ioc.fiocruz.br The presence of bacterial enteropathogens from fishes of a nutrient recycle system from a Experimental Station in Petropolis, RJ, was evaluated in 72 samples from april 2000 to july 2001 Simultaneously was collected the mud used as organic manure and poultry beds localized next to the tanks. The isolation procedures included preenrichment in Peptone Water followed by enrichment with alcaline Peptone Water (pH 8.4-8.6), and streaked onto GSP Agar for the isolation of Aeromonas spp. and Plesiomonas shigelloides. For enteropathogenic bacteria of the Enterobacteriaceae family, 1ml samples were transferred for enrichment in Rappaport- Vassiladis broth and Kauffmann Tetrathionate Broth followed by streak onto Hektoen Enteric Agar and Salmonella-Shigella Agar. Simultaneously at each visit samples of water from fish and macrophyte tanks were collected for monitoring faecal coliforms (MPN) using A1 medium. Among the 116 isolates, Aeromonas spp. were the most frequent (67.2%) with 9 species (A. veronii, biogroup sobria, A. hidrophila, A. sobria, A. trota, A. eucrenophila, A. veronii biog. veronii, A. media, A. cavia and A. jandaei), followed by Edwardsiella tarda (16.4%), Plesiomonas shigelloides (12.9%) and Salmonella spp. (3.4%). The NMP of fecal coliforms showed higher values in the fish tanks (>1800/100ml).

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.- Clementino I.J., Alves C.J., Azevedo S.S., Paulin L.M. & Medeiros K.A. 2007. [Sero-epidemiological survey and risk factors for Brucella ovis infection in rams of the semiarid region of Paraíba, northeastern Brazil.] Inquérito soro-epidemiológico e fatores de risco associados à infecção por Brucella ovis em carneiros deslanados do semi-árido da Paraíba. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(4):137-143. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Cx.Postal 64, Patos, PB 58700-970, Brazil. E-mail: clementinoij@yahoo.com.br A sero-epidemiological survey was conducted to determine the prevalence and distribution of Brucella ovis infection in rams in the state of Paraíba, northeastern Brazil. The risk factors for the infection were also verified. Serum samples from 498 rams, 8 months of age or older, of 283 sheep herds in the Sertão Paraibano and Borborema mesoregions were investigated. All sera were examined by AGID test (screening test) and CFT (confirmatory test). From the total of examined herds, 8.59% (95% CI = 5.83%-12.48%) were seropositive for Brucella ovis. The prevalence of seropositive rams was 5.57% (95% CI = 3.86%-7.97%). The seropositivity was lower in herds where cleanliness was frequently made (p< 0.05).

• Brucellosis Brucella ovis rams prevalence

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Clementino I.J., Alves C.J., Azevedo S.S., Paulin L.M. & Medeiros K.A. 2007. [Sero-epidemiological survey and risk factors for Brucella ovis infection in rams of the semiarid region of Paraíba, northeastern Brazil.] Inquérito soro-epidemiológico e fatores de risco associados à infecção por Brucella ovis em carneiros deslanados do semi-árido da Paraíba. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(4):137-143. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Cx.Postal 64, Patos, PB 58700-970, Brazil. E-mail: clementinoij@yahoo.com.br A sero-epidemiological survey was conducted to determine the prevalence and distribution of Brucella ovis infection in rams in the state of Paraíba, northeastern Brazil. The risk factors for the infection were also verified. Serum samples from 498 rams, 8 months of age or older, of 283 sheep herds in the Sertão Paraibano and Borborema mesoregions were investigated. All sera were examined by AGID test (screening test) and CFT (confirmatory test). From the total of examined herds, 8.59% (95% CI = 5.83%-12.48%) were seropositive for Brucella ovis. The prevalence of seropositive rams was 5.57% (95% CI = 3.86%-7.97%). The seropositivity was lower in herds where cleanliness was frequently made (p< 0.05).

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Rozza D.B., Corrêa A.M.R., Leal J.S., Bandarra P.M., Guagnini F.S. & Djeison Lutier Raymundo D.L. & Driemeier D. 2007. [Experimental monensin poisoning in water buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) and cattle.] Intoxicação experimental por monensina em búfalos e bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(4):172-178. Departamento de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: davetpat@ufrgs.br Monensin is widely used as a feed additive to improve performance of livestock; however accidental poisoning by this ionophore compound has been reported in a number of animal species. Typical clinical signs and lesions of monensin poisoning were induced in water buffaloes dosed with single dosages of 15, 10, 7.5, and 5mg/kg of the compound. Only buffaloes dosed with 2.5 mg/kg (1 day) and 1mg/kg (7 days) survived. Clinical signs initiated about 6 h post-dosing and included apathy, anorexia, diarrhea, drooling, muscular weakness, locomotion disorders, dyspnea, tachycardia, jugular distension and pulse, recumbency and death. The creatine kinase (CK) levels were highly augmented in blood samples of buffaloes dosed with monensin. Most prominent gross changes were ascites, hydrothorax, hydropericardium, cardiomegaly, hepatomegaly, and focal pale areas in the myocardium and in skeletal muscles. Degeneration and necrosis of myofibers were the principal histopathological findings. Conversely, no evidence of disease, neither change in CK levels were observed in the beef cattle steers dosed with same doses, confirming preliminary findings that buffaloes are more susceptible to monensin than cattle. In addition, this communication presents the minimal toxic dosage of monensin to buffaloes and suggests that CK tests may serve as health monitoring tools in the management of buffalo herds supplemented with monensin.

• Buffaloes cattle CK levels degenerative myopathy monensin toxicity monensin tolerance

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Rozza D.B., Corrêa A.M.R., Leal J.S., Bandarra P.M., Guagnini F.S. & Djeison Lutier Raymundo D.L. & Driemeier D. 2007. [Experimental monensin poisoning in water buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) and cattle.] Intoxicação experimental por monensina em búfalos e bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(4):172-178. Departamento de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: davetpat@ufrgs.br Monensin is widely used as a feed additive to improve performance of livestock; however accidental poisoning by this ionophore compound has been reported in a number of animal species. Typical clinical signs and lesions of monensin poisoning were induced in water buffaloes dosed with single dosages of 15, 10, 7.5, and 5mg/kg of the compound. Only buffaloes dosed with 2.5 mg/kg (1 day) and 1mg/kg (7 days) survived. Clinical signs initiated about 6 h post-dosing and included apathy, anorexia, diarrhea, drooling, muscular weakness, locomotion disorders, dyspnea, tachycardia, jugular distension and pulse, recumbency and death. The creatine kinase (CK) levels were highly augmented in blood samples of buffaloes dosed with monensin. Most prominent gross changes were ascites, hydrothorax, hydropericardium, cardiomegaly, hepatomegaly, and focal pale areas in the myocardium and in skeletal muscles. Degeneration and necrosis of myofibers were the principal histopathological findings. Conversely, no evidence of disease, neither change in CK levels were observed in the beef cattle steers dosed with same doses, confirming preliminary findings that buffaloes are more susceptible to monensin than cattle. In addition, this communication presents the minimal toxic dosage of monensin to buffaloes and suggests that CK tests may serve as health monitoring tools in the management of buffalo herds supplemented with monensin.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Pescador C.A., Oliveira E.C., Pedroso P.M.O., Bandarra P.M., Okuda L.H., Corbellini L.G. & Driemeier D. 2007. [Reproductive losses linked to Toxoplasma gondii infection in goats in southern Brazil.] Perdas reprodutivas associadas com infecção por Toxoplasma gondii em caprinos no sul do Brasil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(4):167-171. Departamento de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: davetpat@ufrgs.br Toxoplasma gondii was implicated with reproductive losses in a goat herd in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Gross changes were present in 2 out of 6 fetuses/offsprings submitted for diagnosis and included enlarged, pale mesenteric lymph nodes, and edematous, mottled red and tan lungs. Microscopic changes were observed in most fetuses and were especially characterized by lymphoplasmacytic infiltration in the brain and lungs. Other histological changes included lymphoplasmacytic interstitial nephritis, necrotizing lymphadenitis and periportal lympho-plasmacytic cell infiltrates. While bacteriological and direct immunofluorescent antibody tests for Leptospira sp. were negative in samples from all cases, immunohistochemical and PCR procedures for Toxoplasma gondii reacted positively in most of them. Antibody titles against T. gondii varying from 1:512 to 1:2048 were detected in serum samples from the mother goats of these aborted (1), stillborn (3) or dead newborn (2) kids. This paper describes the clinical, pathological, serological, molecular and immunohistochemical findings of a Toxoplasma gondii-infected goat flock.

• Abortion goat reproductive losses stillborn Toxoplasma gondii

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Pescador C.A., Oliveira E.C., Pedroso P.M.O., Bandarra P.M., Okuda L.H., Corbellini L.G. & Driemeier D. 2007. [Reproductive losses linked to Toxoplasma gondii infection in goats in southern Brazil.] Perdas reprodutivas associadas com infecção por Toxoplasma gondii em caprinos no sul do Brasil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(4):167-171. Departamento de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: davetpat@ufrgs.br Toxoplasma gondii was implicated with reproductive losses in a goat herd in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Gross changes were present in 2 out of 6 fetuses/offsprings submitted for diagnosis and included enlarged, pale mesenteric lymph nodes, and edematous, mottled red and tan lungs. Microscopic changes were observed in most fetuses and were especially characterized by lymphoplasmacytic infiltration in the brain and lungs. Other histological changes included lymphoplasmacytic interstitial nephritis, necrotizing lymphadenitis and periportal lympho-plasmacytic cell infiltrates. While bacteriological and direct immunofluorescent antibody tests for Leptospira sp. were negative in samples from all cases, immunohistochemical and PCR procedures for Toxoplasma gondii reacted positively in most of them. Antibody titles against T. gondii varying from 1:512 to 1:2048 were detected in serum samples from the mother goats of these aborted (1), stillborn (3) or dead newborn (2) kids. This paper describes the clinical, pathological, serological, molecular and immunohistochemical findings of a Toxoplasma gondii-infected goat flock.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Curci V.C.M., Dutra I.S., Döbereiner J. & Lucas Junior J. 2007. [The effect of composting cattle carcasses on botulinum spores and toxin content.] Pré-compostagem de cadáveres de bovinos acometidos pelo botulismo. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(4):157-161. Unidade de Pesquisa e Desenvolvimento Tecnológico do Agronegócio, APTA Regional Extremo Oeste, Laboratório de Sanidade Animal, Av. Alcides Fagundes Chagas 122, Araçatuba, SP 15055-240, Brazil. E-mail: vlmcursi@aptaregional.sp.gov.br Five carcasses of cattle that died from botulism were composted in individual isolated beds with the purpose of monitoring the effect on spores of Clostridium botulinum and of botulinum toxin. The diagnosis of botulinum poisoning was based on clinical and pathological, epidemic and/or laboratorial characteristics. Of the five bovines with clinical signs of chronic botulism, three were affected by the type D toxin, one by the CD complex, and one was negative for toxin and spores of C. botulinum in the viscera using a mouse bioassay. The composting process was carried out in beds with carcasses cut up and mixed with sawdust as a carbon source. They were kept anaerobic under a plastic sheet for 50 days. The temperature of the beds was monitored during the period and oscillated from 40.5 to 52.4°C. After this time, soft tissue had complete decomposed with a significant loss of weight (26.5-44.5%). The remaining bones no longer contained spores or botulinum toxin in the 5 samples taken from each carcass. Only 2 of the 200 samples of homogenized remaining (40 for each carcass) contained spores of C. botulinum type C. All samples were negative for botulinum toxin using the mouse bioassay. Composting carcasses of cattle that died from botulism eliminated botulinum spores and toxin from the remains.

• Composting bovine carcasses botulism botulinum toxin C and D Clostridium botu-linum

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Curci V.C.M., Dutra I.S., Döbereiner J. & Lucas Junior J. 2007. [The effect of composting cattle carcasses on botulinum spores and toxin content.] Pré-compostagem de cadáveres de bovinos acometidos pelo botulismo. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(4):157-161. Unidade de Pesquisa e Desenvolvimento Tecnológico do Agronegócio, APTA Regional Extremo Oeste, Laboratório de Sanidade Animal, Av. Alcides Fagundes Chagas 122, Araçatuba, SP 15055-240, Brazil. E-mail: vlmcursi@aptaregional.sp.gov.br Five carcasses of cattle that died from botulism were composted in individual isolated beds with the purpose of monitoring the effect on spores of Clostridium botulinum and of botulinum toxin. The diagnosis of botulinum poisoning was based on clinical and pathological, epidemic and/or laboratorial characteristics. Of the five bovines with clinical signs of chronic botulism, three were affected by the type D toxin, one by the CD complex, and one was negative for toxin and spores of C. botulinum in the viscera using a mouse bioassay. The composting process was carried out in beds with carcasses cut up and mixed with sawdust as a carbon source. They were kept anaerobic under a plastic sheet for 50 days. The temperature of the beds was monitored during the period and oscillated from 40.5 to 52.4°C. After this time, soft tissue had complete decomposed with a significant loss of weight (26.5-44.5%). The remaining bones no longer contained spores or botulinum toxin in the 5 samples taken from each carcass. Only 2 of the 200 samples of homogenized remaining (40 for each carcass) contained spores of C. botulinum type C. All samples were negative for botulinum toxin using the mouse bioassay. Composting carcasses of cattle that died from botulism eliminated botulinum spores and toxin from the remains.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Rodrigues A.B., Athayde A.C.R., Rodrigues O.G., Silva W.W. & Faria E.B. 2007. [Evaluation of the efficacy of antihelmintics to control gastrointestinal nematodes in goats raised in the state of Paraíba.] Sensibilidade dos nematóides gastrintestinais de caprinos a anti-helmínticos na mesorregião do sertão paraibano. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(4):162-166. Curso de Pós-Graduação de Medicina Veterinária em Pequenos Ruminantes, Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Campus de Patos, 58700-970 Patos, PB, Brazil. E-mail: adrianabonfimr@yahoo.com.br The objective was to evaluate conventional and alternative anthelminthic action on the sensibility of gastrointestinal nematodes in goats. Hundred and twenty goats of both sexes were distributed into 10 groups of 24 animals each (12 males and 12 females) and submitted to treatments of specific anthelminthic composition. The commercial drugs used were moxidectin 0.2%, albendazole, levamisol chlorhydrate, ivermectin and an aqueous extract of the purgative potato (Operculina hamiltonii). The reduction test was applied through egg counts per gram of feces and larval culture to evaluate resistance. The fecal samples were collected in the day when medication was accomplished (day base), at 7, 14 and 21 days after treatment. The following results for the reduction of Trichostrongyloidea eggs were obtained: Treatment of the females with Moxidectina reduced the egg counts to 92.8, 88.7 and 89.8%, of the males to 92.6, 96.2 and 98.1%; with Levamisol of the females to 96, 97.1 and 91%, of the males to 85.7, 94,2 and 100%; with Albendazol of the females 65, 60.3 and 75.4%, of the males 88.8, 88.8 and 55.5%; with Ivermectin of the females to 92.2, 68.6 and 70.6%, of the males to 41.7, 73.6 and 59.7%; and with the purgative potato of the females to 31.8, 34.1 and 49.4%, of the males to 61.5, 80.7 and 50%. In larval culture Haemonchus, followed by Bunostomum, Trichostrongylus, and Oesophagostomum, were identified even after treatments.

• Trichostrongyloidea gastrointestinal helminths anti-helminthics egg count

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Rodrigues A.B., Athayde A.C.R., Rodrigues O.G., Silva W.W. & Faria E.B. 2007. [Evaluation of the efficacy of antihelmintics to control gastrointestinal nematodes in goats raised in the state of Paraíba.] Sensibilidade dos nematóides gastrintestinais de caprinos a anti-helmínticos na mesorregião do sertão paraibano. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(4):162-166. Curso de Pós-Graduação de Medicina Veterinária em Pequenos Ruminantes, Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Campus de Patos, 58700-970 Patos, PB, Brazil. E-mail: adrianabonfimr@yahoo.com.br The objective was to evaluate conventional and alternative anthelminthic action on the sensibility of gastrointestinal nematodes in goats. Hundred and twenty goats of both sexes were distributed into 10 groups of 24 animals each (12 males and 12 females) and submitted to treatments of specific anthelminthic composition. The commercial drugs used were moxidectin 0.2%, albendazole, levamisol chlorhydrate, ivermectin and an aqueous extract of the purgative potato (Operculina hamiltonii). The reduction test was applied through egg counts per gram of feces and larval culture to evaluate resistance. The fecal samples were collected in the day when medication was accomplished (day base), at 7, 14 and 21 days after treatment. The following results for the reduction of Trichostrongyloidea eggs were obtained: Treatment of the females with Moxidectina reduced the egg counts to 92.8, 88.7 and 89.8%, of the males to 92.6, 96.2 and 98.1%; with Levamisol of the females to 96, 97.1 and 91%, of the males to 85.7, 94,2 and 100%; with Albendazol of the females 65, 60.3 and 75.4%, of the males 88.8, 88.8 and 55.5%; with Ivermectin of the females to 92.2, 68.6 and 70.6%, of the males to 41.7, 73.6 and 59.7%; and with the purgative potato of the females to 31.8, 34.1 and 49.4%, of the males to 61.5, 80.7 and 50%. In larval culture Haemonchus, followed by Bunostomum, Trichostrongylus, and Oesophagostomum, were identified even after treatments.

Abstract in English:

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

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

Abstract in Portuguese:

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