PESQUISA VETERINÁRIA BRASILEIRA

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Vidotti A.P., Agreste F.R., Bombonato P.P. & Prado I.M.M. 2008. [Arterial vascularization of the sinoatrial node in swine hearts: origin, distribution and quantification.] Vascularização arterial da região do nó sinoatrial em corações suínos: origem, distribuição e quantificação. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(2):113-118. Departamento de Cirurgia, Setor de Anatomia dos Animais Domésticos e Silvestres, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, Cidade Universitária, São Paulo, SP 05508-000, Brazil. E-mail: avidotti@usp.br The sinoatrial node, for being topographically installed as the initial component of the conduction system, is responsible for the production of the nervous impulses, which determines the cardiac contraction. There have been made studies related to the node’s morphology in order to know the origin, distribution and quantification of the vases in this tissue, however, in spite of the results and quantitative data of the nodal irrigation - arterial vascular conduct and arterial vascular density, at the nodal level - the literature is scarce. With this objective 27 SRD swine hearts, injected with colored resin for macroscopic analysis of the origin and distribution of ANSA (sinoatrial node artery), 3 others injected with watery solution of colloidal coal (dyed nanquim) were used, to mark the route of the vases on the node level for stereological analysis. The atrial arteries originated as well from the right coronary artery as from the left one, with predominance of the first (66.66% and 33.33%, respectively). When originated from the right coronary artery, there existed the following branches: AADAM (right cranial medial atrial artery) in 14 cases, AADAI (right cranial intermedial atrial artery) in 2 cases, and AADAL (right cranial lateral atrial artery) in 2 cases. In 9 cases (33.33%) the following branches originated from the left coronary artery: 4 through branch AASPL (left caudal lateral atrial artery), 2 through branch AASAI (left cranial intermedial atrial artery) and 3 through branch AASAM (left cranial medial atrial artery). Interarterial anastomoses with vessels responsible for irrigation of the sinoatrial node area were observed in most of the cases (25 hearts). The Volume or Reference Volume (V(ref)) of the hearts were 35.32x104µm3. For the stereological variables analyzed, the estimate density of the vessel length (Lv) was 766; the vessel length (L) - mm - was 27.06x105µm; the area’s surface density (Sv) was 182 and the area’s surface (S) - mm2 - was 64.3x106µm2. The estimate of the vascular numeric density (Nv(vasc)) - total of vessels per unit of volume (cm3) was 2.19 10-5, and the total number of vessels in the organ (N(vasc)), estimated by the physical dissector method in combination with the estimate of the number of Euler (Xv), was 773.6832 x10-2. The raised vascular density and total number of vases in the swine’s sinoatrial node area suggests the existence of a vascular perinodal network complex and dense, ratifying the importance of this mark-pass for its blood supply.

• Heart vascularization sinoatrial node morphometry swine

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Vidotti A.P., Agreste F.R., Bombonato P.P. & Prado I.M.M. 2008. [Arterial vascularization of the sinoatrial node in swine hearts: origin, distribution and quantification.] Vascularização arterial da região do nó sinoatrial em corações suínos: origem, distribuição e quantificação. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(2):113-118. Departamento de Cirurgia, Setor de Anatomia dos Animais Domésticos e Silvestres, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, Cidade Universitária, São Paulo, SP 05508-000, Brazil. E-mail: avidotti@usp.br The sinoatrial node, for being topographically installed as the initial component of the conduction system, is responsible for the production of the nervous impulses, which determines the cardiac contraction. There have been made studies related to the node’s morphology in order to know the origin, distribution and quantification of the vases in this tissue, however, in spite of the results and quantitative data of the nodal irrigation - arterial vascular conduct and arterial vascular density, at the nodal level - the literature is scarce. With this objective 27 SRD swine hearts, injected with colored resin for macroscopic analysis of the origin and distribution of ANSA (sinoatrial node artery), 3 others injected with watery solution of colloidal coal (dyed nanquim) were used, to mark the route of the vases on the node level for stereological analysis. The atrial arteries originated as well from the right coronary artery as from the left one, with predominance of the first (66.66% and 33.33%, respectively). When originated from the right coronary artery, there existed the following branches: AADAM (right cranial medial atrial artery) in 14 cases, AADAI (right cranial intermedial atrial artery) in 2 cases, and AADAL (right cranial lateral atrial artery) in 2 cases. In 9 cases (33.33%) the following branches originated from the left coronary artery: 4 through branch AASPL (left caudal lateral atrial artery), 2 through branch AASAI (left cranial intermedial atrial artery) and 3 through branch AASAM (left cranial medial atrial artery). Interarterial anastomoses with vessels responsible for irrigation of the sinoatrial node area were observed in most of the cases (25 hearts). The Volume or Reference Volume (V(ref)) of the hearts were 35.32x104µm3. For the stereological variables analyzed, the estimate density of the vessel length (Lv) was 766; the vessel length (L) - mm - was 27.06x105µm; the area’s surface density (Sv) was 182 and the area’s surface (S) - mm2 - was 64.3x106µm2. The estimate of the vascular numeric density (Nv(vasc)) - total of vessels per unit of volume (cm3) was 2.19 10-5, and the total number of vessels in the organ (N(vasc)), estimated by the physical dissector method in combination with the estimate of the number of Euler (Xv), was 773.6832 x10-2. The raised vascular density and total number of vases in the swine’s sinoatrial node area suggests the existence of a vascular perinodal network complex and dense, ratifying the importance of this mark-pass for its blood supply.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Hette K., Rahal S.C.,Volpi R.S., Ferreira D.O.L. & Teixeira C.R. 2008. [Arthroscopy of the stifle joint in sheep.] Artroscopia do joelho de ovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(3):119-123. Departamento de Cirurgia e Anestesiologia Veterinária, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Estadual Paulista (Unesp), Campus de Botucatu, Distrito de Rubião Junior s/n, Botucatu, SP 18650-000, Brazil. E-mail: khadijehette@yahoo.com.br The aim of this study was to evaluate arthroscopically the stifle joint of healthy Santa Ines sheep with different ages, and observe the joint elements according to the established portals. Eighteen Santa Ines sheep were divided into 3 equal groups according to the chronological age: GI - 6 to 8 months old (mean weight 25 kg), G II - 2 years old (mean weight 50 kg), and G III - 3.5 to 5 years old (mean weight 55 kg). Three arthroscopic portals were established: craniolateral primary arthroscopic portal, drainage outflow portal, and craniomedial instrumental portal. The patella, the trochlear groove and ridges, the medial and lateral femoral condyles, and the long digital extensor tendon were easily identified. After removing a great portion of the infrapatellar fat pad using a shaver, the cruciate ligaments and the menisci could be observed, even though with some difficulty. The limbs were flexed and extended to identify the cruciate ligaments. Varus and valgus stress of the joint was used to improve meniscal observation. The difficulty level was inversely proportional to the joint size. In conclusion, the arthroscopic portals allowed identification of the main elements of the knee joint, regardless of animal age, and the arthroscopic method had as advantage early postoperative recovery of the animals.

• Joint stifle arthroscopy sheep

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Hette K., Rahal S.C.,Volpi R.S., Ferreira D.O.L. & Teixeira C.R. 2008. [Arthroscopy of the stifle joint in sheep.] Artroscopia do joelho de ovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(3):119-123. Departamento de Cirurgia e Anestesiologia Veterinária, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Estadual Paulista (Unesp), Campus de Botucatu, Distrito de Rubião Junior s/n, Botucatu, SP 18650-000, Brazil. E-mail: khadijehette@yahoo.com.br The aim of this study was to evaluate arthroscopically the stifle joint of healthy Santa Ines sheep with different ages, and observe the joint elements according to the established portals. Eighteen Santa Ines sheep were divided into 3 equal groups according to the chronological age: GI - 6 to 8 months old (mean weight 25 kg), G II - 2 years old (mean weight 50 kg), and G III - 3.5 to 5 years old (mean weight 55 kg). Three arthroscopic portals were established: craniolateral primary arthroscopic portal, drainage outflow portal, and craniomedial instrumental portal. The patella, the trochlear groove and ridges, the medial and lateral femoral condyles, and the long digital extensor tendon were easily identified. After removing a great portion of the infrapatellar fat pad using a shaver, the cruciate ligaments and the menisci could be observed, even though with some difficulty. The limbs were flexed and extended to identify the cruciate ligaments. Varus and valgus stress of the joint was used to improve meniscal observation. The difficulty level was inversely proportional to the joint size. In conclusion, the arthroscopic portals allowed identification of the main elements of the knee joint, regardless of animal age, and the arthroscopic method had as advantage early postoperative recovery of the animals.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Filappi A.R., Prestes D.S., Antes F.G., Flores E.L.M., Dressler V.L., Flores E.M.M. & Cecim M. 2008. [Metabolism and distribution of fluor in lambs chronically treated with sodium fluoride.] Metabolismo e distribuição do flúor em ovinos jovens tratados cronicamente com fluoreto de sódio. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(2):124-128. Departamento de Clínica de Grandes Animais, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Campus Camobi, Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil. E-mail: afilappi@bol.com.br The objective of the present study was to evaluate fluorine metabolism in growing lambs. Twelve 5-month-old male lambs maintained on alfalfa hay (3% BW) and non-fluorinated water ad libitum were used. Animals were allocated into Control, receiving 5g NaCl/animal/day + 0.2mg I/kg dry matter) and Treated group, receiving the same treatment plus sodium fluoride (4.7mg F/kg body weight). Mineral treatment was given by gavage, daily for 150 days. Blood, urine and fecal samples were collected during and the end of the experiment. At the end of treatment period animals were euthanized and kidney, pineal and bone samples were collected. Urine F was higher in treated animals throughout the experiment. Bone F levels were also increased in treated animals; pineal F content however, was not different between groups. Kidney histology revealed no differences. It is concluded that chronic F administration induces accumulation of the element in the skeleton. However such fact appears not to be detrimental to animals. Rates of F accumulation in bone and urine excretion obtained in other species can not be used in growing lambs.

• Fluoride sheep serum urine bone

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Filappi A.R., Prestes D.S., Antes F.G., Flores E.L.M., Dressler V.L., Flores E.M.M. & Cecim M. 2008. [Metabolism and distribution of fluor in lambs chronically treated with sodium fluoride.] Metabolismo e distribuição do flúor em ovinos jovens tratados cronicamente com fluoreto de sódio. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(2):124-128. Departamento de Clínica de Grandes Animais, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Campus Camobi, Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil. E-mail: afilappi@bol.com.br The objective of the present study was to evaluate fluorine metabolism in growing lambs. Twelve 5-month-old male lambs maintained on alfalfa hay (3% BW) and non-fluorinated water ad libitum were used. Animals were allocated into Control, receiving 5g NaCl/animal/day + 0.2mg I/kg dry matter) and Treated group, receiving the same treatment plus sodium fluoride (4.7mg F/kg body weight). Mineral treatment was given by gavage, daily for 150 days. Blood, urine and fecal samples were collected during and the end of the experiment. At the end of treatment period animals were euthanized and kidney, pineal and bone samples were collected. Urine F was higher in treated animals throughout the experiment. Bone F levels were also increased in treated animals; pineal F content however, was not different between groups. Kidney histology revealed no differences. It is concluded that chronic F administration induces accumulation of the element in the skeleton. However such fact appears not to be detrimental to animals. Rates of F accumulation in bone and urine excretion obtained in other species can not be used in growing lambs.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Millar P.R., Daguer H., Vicente R.T., Costa T., Sobreiro L.G. & Amendoeira M.R.R. 2008. [Toxoplasma gondii: epidemiological study of pigs from southwestern Paraná, Brazil.] Toxoplasma gondii: estudo soro-epidemiológico de suínos da região Sudoeste do Estado do Paraná. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(1):15-18. Programa de Pós-Graduação em Higiene Veterinária e Processamento Tecnológico de Produtos de Origem Animal, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Rua Vital Brazil Filho 64, Santa Rosa, Niterói, RJ 24230-360, Brazil. E-mail: patriciariddell@vm.uff.br This study evaluated the seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis in pigs bred and slaughtered for human consumption. The frequency of the antibody anti-Toxoplasma gondii was investigated in 408 animals from distinct piggeries of 25 cities in the southwestern region of the state of Paraná, Brazil. Serum samples were examined for IgG antibodies specific for T. gondii through the indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT). A frequency of 25.5% of serum samples tested positive for dilutions equal to or greater than 1:64. Statistically significant were not observed in relation to sex and age of the animals. The highest antibody level observed was 4,096 (3.0%) and the most frequent was 64 (74%), suggesting that a chronic infection occurred in the population. The high prevalence of the infection found in the swine herds of this region suggests that these herds can be a source of infection for individuals who typically consume this type of raw or badly cooked meat.

• Toxoplasma gondii pigs seroprevalence

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Millar P.R., Daguer H., Vicente R.T., Costa T., Sobreiro L.G. & Amendoeira M.R.R. 2008. [Toxoplasma gondii: epidemiological study of pigs from southwestern Paraná, Brazil.] Toxoplasma gondii: estudo soro-epidemiológico de suínos da região Sudoeste do Estado do Paraná. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(1):15-18. Programa de Pós-Graduação em Higiene Veterinária e Processamento Tecnológico de Produtos de Origem Animal, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Rua Vital Brazil Filho 64, Santa Rosa, Niterói, RJ 24230-360, Brazil. E-mail: patriciariddell@vm.uff.br This study evaluated the seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis in pigs bred and slaughtered for human consumption. The frequency of the antibody anti-Toxoplasma gondii was investigated in 408 animals from distinct piggeries of 25 cities in the southwestern region of the state of Paraná, Brazil. Serum samples were examined for IgG antibodies specific for T. gondii through the indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT). A frequency of 25.5% of serum samples tested positive for dilutions equal to or greater than 1:64. Statistically significant were not observed in relation to sex and age of the animals. The highest antibody level observed was 4,096 (3.0%) and the most frequent was 64 (74%), suggesting that a chronic infection occurred in the population. The high prevalence of the infection found in the swine herds of this region suggests that these herds can be a source of infection for individuals who typically consume this type of raw or badly cooked meat.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Rodrigues A., De La Corte F.D., Graça D.L., Rissi D.R., Schild A.L., Kommers G.D. & Barros C.S.L. 2008. [Stringhalt in horses from the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.] Harpejamento em eqüinos no Rio Grande do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(1):23-28. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br The epidemiology, clinical, gross and histological findings of cases of stringhalt occurring in horses from eight farms in six counties in the State of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil from 2000-2005 are reported. At least 10 horses were affected. Ages of affected horses were 1-13 years (average 6.2 years) and 1-2 horses were affected in each farm. Factors that might have influenced the appearance of the disease included dearth of forage due to insufficient rainfall. The presence of the plant Hypochaeris radicata, often implicated as a cause of stringhalt in horses, was observed in the pasture of three out of five evaluated farms and in six of these farms the pasture was poor due to scarse precipitation. Estimated morbidity was 17.3% and lethality was close to zero although two horses were euthanatized for necropsy. Characteristic clinical signs included excessive flexion of the stifle and hock joints, impaired ambulation and bunny hop-type of gait. Clinical disease was graded by number scores from 1-5, higher numbers indicating increasing severity. Three horses were graded as 1, one horse as 2, three horses as 3, one horse as 4 and two horses as 5. Treatment with phenytoin in two horses and with phenytoin and tenectomy in another one did not result in amelioration of the clinical signs. Four out of ten clinical examined horses with stringhalt recovered with no treatment within 2-4 months of clinical disease and four affected horses did not recover even after 9-17 months of clinical disease, when they were lastly examined. Necropsy findings included atrophy of skeletal muscle of the large muscular groups which was confirmed histologically. Histological evaluation of peripheral nerves of one of the euthanatized horses revealed reduction or absence of myelinated fibers. Ultrastructural findings included signs of demyelination, regeneration and remyelination of peripheral nerves.

• Neuropathy toxic neuropathy diseases of horses

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Rodrigues A., De La Corte F.D., Graça D.L., Rissi D.R., Schild A.L., Kommers G.D. & Barros C.S.L. 2008. [Stringhalt in horses from the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.] Harpejamento em eqüinos no Rio Grande do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(1):23-28. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br The epidemiology, clinical, gross and histological findings of cases of stringhalt occurring in horses from eight farms in six counties in the State of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil from 2000-2005 are reported. At least 10 horses were affected. Ages of affected horses were 1-13 years (average 6.2 years) and 1-2 horses were affected in each farm. Factors that might have influenced the appearance of the disease included dearth of forage due to insufficient rainfall. The presence of the plant Hypochaeris radicata, often implicated as a cause of stringhalt in horses, was observed in the pasture of three out of five evaluated farms and in six of these farms the pasture was poor due to scarse precipitation. Estimated morbidity was 17.3% and lethality was close to zero although two horses were euthanatized for necropsy. Characteristic clinical signs included excessive flexion of the stifle and hock joints, impaired ambulation and bunny hop-type of gait. Clinical disease was graded by number scores from 1-5, higher numbers indicating increasing severity. Three horses were graded as 1, one horse as 2, three horses as 3, one horse as 4 and two horses as 5. Treatment with phenytoin in two horses and with phenytoin and tenectomy in another one did not result in amelioration of the clinical signs. Four out of ten clinical examined horses with stringhalt recovered with no treatment within 2-4 months of clinical disease and four affected horses did not recover even after 9-17 months of clinical disease, when they were lastly examined. Necropsy findings included atrophy of skeletal muscle of the large muscular groups which was confirmed histologically. Histological evaluation of peripheral nerves of one of the euthanatized horses revealed reduction or absence of myelinated fibers. Ultrastructural findings included signs of demyelination, regeneration and remyelination of peripheral nerves.

Abstract in English:

Abstract.- Riet-Correa F., Dantas A.F.M., Azevedo E.O., Simões S.D.V., Silva S.M.S., Vilela R. & Mendoza L. 2008. Outbreaks of rhinofacial and rhinopharyngeal zygomycosis in sheep in Paraíba, northeastern Brazil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(1):29-35. Hospital Veterinário, CSTR, Universidades Federal de Campina Grande, Patos, PB 58700-000, Brazil. E-mail: franklin.riet@pq.cnpq.br Two outbreaks of zigomycosis with rhinofacial and two other with rhinopharyngeal lesions involving fungi with filamentous coaenocytic hyphae characteristic of entomoph-thoramycetous fungi are reported in the state of Paraíba, northeastern Brazil. One outbreak of rhinofacial zygomycosis occurred during the rainy season affecting 5 sheep. Another outbreak of the clinical form affected one out of 40 sheep during the dry season. Common clinical signs of the rhinofacial infection were bilateral serosanguineous nasal discharge with swelling of nostrils, upper lip, and the skin of the face. At necropsy the nasal mucosa showed dark brownish ulcerated areas which extended from the mucocutaneous region to 10cm inside the nasal vestibule. The mucosa of the hard palate was also ulcerated. The cutting surface of nostrils and palate showed a brownish or red spongeous tissue of friable consistency. One outbreak of rhinopharyngitis took place on an irrigated coconut farm; 7 out of 60 adult sheep were affected. Another outbreak affected a sheep in a flock of 80 during the dry season. Clinical signs as noisy respiration and dyspnoea due to mechanical blockage of the nasal cavities, swelling of the nostrils, and serosanguineous nasal discharge were observed. Six out of 8 sheep in this group showed exophthalmia, keratitis and unilateral corneal ulceration of the eye. The sheep either died of their infection or were euthanized after a clinical course of 7-30 days. At necropsy there was a dense yellow exudate in the nasopharyngeal area affecting the ethmoidal region, turbinate bones, paranasal sinuses, hard and soft palates, orbital cavity, pharynges, regional muscles and lymph nodes. Histopathologically both forms of the disease showed multifocal granulomas with an eosinophilic necrotic reaction (Splendore-Hoeppli phenomenon) containing ribbon type coenocytic hyphae with 7-30mm in diameter similar to hyphae of zygomycetous fungi, possibly Conidiobolus spp. Outbreaks of both forms of mycotic rhinitis are common in northeastern Brazil and in other regions of the country.

• Conidiobolomycosis zygomycosis sheep semiarid

Abstract in Portuguese:

Abstract.- Riet-Correa F., Dantas A.F.M., Azevedo E.O., Simões S.D.V., Silva S.M.S., Vilela R. & Mendoza L. 2008. Outbreaks of rhinofacial and rhinopharyngeal zygomycosis in sheep in Paraíba, northeastern Brazil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(1):29-35. Hospital Veterinário, CSTR, Universidades Federal de Campina Grande, Patos, PB 58700-000, Brazil. E-mail: franklin.riet@pq.cnpq.br Two outbreaks of zigomycosis with rhinofacial and two other with rhinopharyngeal lesions involving fungi with filamentous coaenocytic hyphae characteristic of entomoph-thoramycetous fungi are reported in the state of Paraíba, northeastern Brazil. One outbreak of rhinofacial zygomycosis occurred during the rainy season affecting 5 sheep. Another outbreak of the clinical form affected one out of 40 sheep during the dry season. Common clinical signs of the rhinofacial infection were bilateral serosanguineous nasal discharge with swelling of nostrils, upper lip, and the skin of the face. At necropsy the nasal mucosa showed dark brownish ulcerated areas which extended from the mucocutaneous region to 10cm inside the nasal vestibule. The mucosa of the hard palate was also ulcerated. The cutting surface of nostrils and palate showed a brownish or red spongeous tissue of friable consistency. One outbreak of rhinopharyngitis took place on an irrigated coconut farm; 7 out of 60 adult sheep were affected. Another outbreak affected a sheep in a flock of 80 during the dry season. Clinical signs as noisy respiration and dyspnoea due to mechanical blockage of the nasal cavities, swelling of the nostrils, and serosanguineous nasal discharge were observed. Six out of 8 sheep in this group showed exophthalmia, keratitis and unilateral corneal ulceration of the eye. The sheep either died of their infection or were euthanized after a clinical course of 7-30 days. At necropsy there was a dense yellow exudate in the nasopharyngeal area affecting the ethmoidal region, turbinate bones, paranasal sinuses, hard and soft palates, orbital cavity, pharynges, regional muscles and lymph nodes. Histopathologically both forms of the disease showed multifocal granulomas with an eosinophilic necrotic reaction (Splendore-Hoeppli phenomenon) containing ribbon type coenocytic hyphae with 7-30mm in diameter similar to hyphae of zygomycetous fungi, possibly Conidiobolus spp. Outbreaks of both forms of mycotic rhinitis are common in northeastern Brazil and in other regions of the country.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Oliveira D.M., Pimentel L.A., Araújo J.A.S., Medeiros R.M.T., Dantas A.F.M. & Riet-Correa F. 2008. [Poisoning by Cnidoscolus phyllacanthus (Euphorbiaceae) in goats.] Intoxicação por Cnidoscolus phyllacanthus (Euphorbiaceae) em caprinos. Pesquisa Ve-terinária Brasileira 28(1):36-42. Hospital Veterinário, CSTR, Universidade Federal de Campi-na Grande, Campus de Patos, 58700-000 Patos, PB, Brazil. E-mail: franklin.riet@pq.cnpq.br Cnidoscolus phyllacanthus (Euphorbiaceae), with the common name favela, is a generally spiny plant of the Brazilian semiarid. Mainly during the dry season livestock browse its leaves from the shrubs or ingest the dry leaves fallen to the ground. Farmers report the spontaneous poisoning by this plant when livestock has access to shrubs or branches that had been cut. Different parts of the ground fresh plant, diluted in water, are used by people in the semiarid to hunt birds. To determine the toxicity of C. phyllacanthus, leaves of the non-spiny plant were fed by hand to a goat by putting small amount into its mouth. After the consumption of 4.7g/kg body weight, the goat had tachycardia, tachypnoea, dyspnoea, nystagmus, opisthotonos and sternal recumbence. The death occurred 30 minutes after the onset of clinical signs. Fresh leaves from the same plants were given to 8 goats at doses of 0.5-2.5g/kg without causing clinical signs. Three goats showed clinical signs after the ingestion of 3g/kg. Clinical signs were similar to those observed in cyanide poisoning. Two goats given 0.5mg/kg of a 20% solution of sodium thiosulphate recovered immediately after treatment. Another goat recovered spontaneously. Leaves from the same plants were sun-dried during variable periods for 8-30 days, and then given to 8 goats. The goat that ingested the plant dried at the sun during 8 days died after the ingestion of 3 g/kg. The goat that ingested the plant, exposed to the sun for 9 days, showed clinical signs after the ingestion of 1.13g/kg, but recovered spontaneously. The goats that ingested the leaves exposed to the sun during 10-29 days showed clinical signs after the ingestion of 3g/kg, but recovered spontaneously or after treatment with sodium thiosulphate. No clinical signs were observed in the goat that ingested the plant that had been exposed to the sun during 30 days. In another experiment ground leaves of the plant were dried at the sun for 1, 2, 3, and 4 days and given to goats at the dose of 3g/kg. Goats that received the plant dried for 1, 2 or 3 days showed clinical signs, but recovered spontaneously. The goat that ingested the plant dried 4 days showed no clinical signs. Leaves of the spineless C. phyllacanthus used in the experiments, 20 samples of leaves from spiny plants, 3 samples of the ground plant stem, and 2 samples of fruits were positive with the picrosodic paper test for HCN. These results demonstrated that C. phyllacanthus is a cyanogenic plant. After being cut the entire leaves maintain their toxicity for up to 30 days, and the ground leaves for up to 3 days. After the end of the raining season dry leaves fallen to the ground and tested within a short period were negative for HCN. These results have to be taken into account for the use of C. phyllacanthus as forage.

• Cnidoscolus phyllacanthus plant poisoning cyanide poisoning goats semiarid

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Oliveira D.M., Pimentel L.A., Araújo J.A.S., Medeiros R.M.T., Dantas A.F.M. & Riet-Correa F. 2008. [Poisoning by Cnidoscolus phyllacanthus (Euphorbiaceae) in goats.] Intoxicação por Cnidoscolus phyllacanthus (Euphorbiaceae) em caprinos. Pesquisa Ve-terinária Brasileira 28(1):36-42. Hospital Veterinário, CSTR, Universidade Federal de Campi-na Grande, Campus de Patos, 58700-000 Patos, PB, Brazil. E-mail: franklin.riet@pq.cnpq.br Cnidoscolus phyllacanthus (Euphorbiaceae), with the common name favela, is a generally spiny plant of the Brazilian semiarid. Mainly during the dry season livestock browse its leaves from the shrubs or ingest the dry leaves fallen to the ground. Farmers report the spontaneous poisoning by this plant when livestock has access to shrubs or branches that had been cut. Different parts of the ground fresh plant, diluted in water, are used by people in the semiarid to hunt birds. To determine the toxicity of C. phyllacanthus, leaves of the non-spiny plant were fed by hand to a goat by putting small amount into its mouth. After the consumption of 4.7g/kg body weight, the goat had tachycardia, tachypnoea, dyspnoea, nystagmus, opisthotonos and sternal recumbence. The death occurred 30 minutes after the onset of clinical signs. Fresh leaves from the same plants were given to 8 goats at doses of 0.5-2.5g/kg without causing clinical signs. Three goats showed clinical signs after the ingestion of 3g/kg. Clinical signs were similar to those observed in cyanide poisoning. Two goats given 0.5mg/kg of a 20% solution of sodium thiosulphate recovered immediately after treatment. Another goat recovered spontaneously. Leaves from the same plants were sun-dried during variable periods for 8-30 days, and then given to 8 goats. The goat that ingested the plant dried at the sun during 8 days died after the ingestion of 3 g/kg. The goat that ingested the plant, exposed to the sun for 9 days, showed clinical signs after the ingestion of 1.13g/kg, but recovered spontaneously. The goats that ingested the leaves exposed to the sun during 10-29 days showed clinical signs after the ingestion of 3g/kg, but recovered spontaneously or after treatment with sodium thiosulphate. No clinical signs were observed in the goat that ingested the plant that had been exposed to the sun during 30 days. In another experiment ground leaves of the plant were dried at the sun for 1, 2, 3, and 4 days and given to goats at the dose of 3g/kg. Goats that received the plant dried for 1, 2 or 3 days showed clinical signs, but recovered spontaneously. The goat that ingested the plant dried 4 days showed no clinical signs. Leaves of the spineless C. phyllacanthus used in the experiments, 20 samples of leaves from spiny plants, 3 samples of the ground plant stem, and 2 samples of fruits were positive with the picrosodic paper test for HCN. These results demonstrated that C. phyllacanthus is a cyanogenic plant. After being cut the entire leaves maintain their toxicity for up to 30 days, and the ground leaves for up to 3 days. After the end of the raining season dry leaves fallen to the ground and tested within a short period were negative for HCN. These results have to be taken into account for the use of C. phyllacanthus as forage.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Torres M.B.A.M. & Coelho K.I.R. 2008. Experimental poisoning by Senecio brasiliensis in calves: quantitative and semi-quantitative study on changes in the hepatic extracellular matrix and sinusoidal cells. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(1):43-50. Laboratório de Patologia Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Campus Palotina, Rua Pioneiro 2153, Jardim Dallas, Palotina, PR 85950-000, Brazil. E-mail: torres@ufpr.br Extracellular matrix plays an important role in chronic hepatic lesions and has been studied in experimental intoxication models. However in cattle, studies on chronic disease have focused on the hepatocellular damage and extracellular matrix (ECM) changes are usually overlooked. There are no specific studies on the hepatic ECM in either normal or chronically damaged bovine liver. Thus an experimental model of hepatic toxicity model using Senecio brasiliensis poisoned calves was designed. Senecio brasiliensis contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids which cause either acute or chronic progressive dose dependent liver damage. Five calves were orally fed with 0.38g of dry leaves of S. brasiliensis/kg/day for 24 days. Liver needle biopsy specimens were obtained every 15 days for 60 days. Clinical signs of digestive complications appeared at 3rd week. One calf died on 45th day and four were evaluated up to 60th day. Biopsy samples were processed for routine light microscopy, immuno-histochemistry and transmission electron microscopy. From 30th day on progressive liver damage characterized by hepatocellular ballooning, necrosis, apoptosis and megalocytosis, centrilobular, pericellular and portal fibrosis were seen by light microscopy. Quantitative and semi-quantitative measurements of hepatic ECM components were performed before and after the onset of lesions. Morphometric analysis of total collagen and elastic fiber system was conducted. Total collagen and I and III collagen types progressively increased in throughout the liver of affected calves. Changes in location, amount and disposition of the elastic fiber system were also observed. Then numbers of Kupffer cells were significantly increased at 30th day and total numbers of sinusoidal cells were significantly increased at 45th and 60th days. Liver damage was progressive and irreversible even after the exposure to the plant was discontinued. Severe fibrotic lesions occurred mainly in portal tracts, followed by veno-occlusive and pericellular fibrosis. Collagen types I and III s were present in every normal and damaged liver, with predominance of type I. In affected calves the increase of total collagen and elastic fibers system paralleled the number of total sinusoidal cells.

• Hepatic extracellular matrix sinusoidal cells hepatic fibrosis pyrrolizidine alkaloids

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Torres M.B.A.M. & Coelho K.I.R. 2008. Experimental poisoning by Senecio brasiliensis in calves: quantitative and semi-quantitative study on changes in the hepatic extracellular matrix and sinusoidal cells. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(1):43-50. Laboratório de Patologia Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Campus Palotina, Rua Pioneiro 2153, Jardim Dallas, Palotina, PR 85950-000, Brazil. E-mail: torres@ufpr.br Extracellular matrix plays an important role in chronic hepatic lesions and has been studied in experimental intoxication models. However in cattle, studies on chronic disease have focused on the hepatocellular damage and extracellular matrix (ECM) changes are usually overlooked. There are no specific studies on the hepatic ECM in either normal or chronically damaged bovine liver. Thus an experimental model of hepatic toxicity model using Senecio brasiliensis poisoned calves was designed. Senecio brasiliensis contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids which cause either acute or chronic progressive dose dependent liver damage. Five calves were orally fed with 0.38g of dry leaves of S. brasiliensis/kg/day for 24 days. Liver needle biopsy specimens were obtained every 15 days for 60 days. Clinical signs of digestive complications appeared at 3rd week. One calf died on 45th day and four were evaluated up to 60th day. Biopsy samples were processed for routine light microscopy, immuno-histochemistry and transmission electron microscopy. From 30th day on progressive liver damage characterized by hepatocellular ballooning, necrosis, apoptosis and megalocytosis, centrilobular, pericellular and portal fibrosis were seen by light microscopy. Quantitative and semi-quantitative measurements of hepatic ECM components were performed before and after the onset of lesions. Morphometric analysis of total collagen and elastic fiber system was conducted. Total collagen and I and III collagen types progressively increased in throughout the liver of affected calves. Changes in location, amount and disposition of the elastic fiber system were also observed. Then numbers of Kupffer cells were significantly increased at 30th day and total numbers of sinusoidal cells were significantly increased at 45th and 60th days. Liver damage was progressive and irreversible even after the exposure to the plant was discontinued. Severe fibrotic lesions occurred mainly in portal tracts, followed by veno-occlusive and pericellular fibrosis. Collagen types I and III s were present in every normal and damaged liver, with predominance of type I. In affected calves the increase of total collagen and elastic fibers system paralleled the number of total sinusoidal cells.

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.- Batista J.S., Bezerra F.S.B., Lira R.A., Carvalho J.R.G., Rosado Neto A.M., Petri A.A. & Teixeira M.M.G. 2008. [Clinical, epidemiological and pathological signs of natural infection in cattle by Trypanosoma vivax in Paraíba, Brazil.] Aspectos clínicos, epidemiológicos e patológicos da infecção natural em bovinos por Trypanosoma vivax na Paraíba. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(1):63-69. Departamento de Ciências Animais, Universidade Federal Rural do Semi-árido, BR 110 Km 47, Caixa Postal 147, Mossoró, RN 59625-900, Brazil. E-mail: jaelsbatista@hotmail.com Two outbreaks of trypanosomiasis by Trypanosoma vivax, reported in cattle, occurred on two farms located in the state of Paraíba, northeastern Brazil. The epidemiology, clinical signs and pathology of the disease were studied from May 2005 to November 2006. T. vivax was identified morphologically and by polymerase chain reaction test (PCR). The affected cattle presented anorexia, depression, fever, anemia, weight loss, reduction in milk production, transitory blindness, abortion and some nervous signs as nystagmus, tetany and bruxism. All cattle that presented nervous signs died. Necropsy findings were enlarged lymph and spleen, serous atrophy of the fat depots, proeminence of the splenic white pulp, hydropericardium and pericardial petechiae and ecchymoses on the epicardium. Histologically there was meningoencephalitis. The treatment of the clinical cases with diminazena aceturate was efficient with clearance of the parasite from the blood or disappearance of clinical signs in up to 2 months after the beginning of the outbreak on the two farms studied. The epidemiologic factors favoring the occurrence of the outbreak were the abundance of mechanical vectors, as tabanids and Stomoxys sp., and the introduction into the herd of cattle from farms where the disease occurred. It is suggested that the semiarid of the Brazilian Northeast is an enzootic instability region for trypanosomiasis due to its prolonged periods of drought and high temperatures, constituting during most part of the year an unfavorable environment for the development of vectors.

• Trypanosoma vivax trypanosomiasis cattle outbreak Brazilian Northeast semi-arid

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Batista J.S., Bezerra F.S.B., Lira R.A., Carvalho J.R.G., Rosado Neto A.M., Petri A.A. & Teixeira M.M.G. 2008. [Clinical, epidemiological and pathological signs of natural infection in cattle by Trypanosoma vivax in Paraíba, Brazil.] Aspectos clínicos, epidemiológicos e patológicos da infecção natural em bovinos por Trypanosoma vivax na Paraíba. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(1):63-69. Departamento de Ciências Animais, Universidade Federal Rural do Semi-árido, BR 110 Km 47, Caixa Postal 147, Mossoró, RN 59625-900, Brazil. E-mail: jaelsbatista@hotmail.com Two outbreaks of trypanosomiasis by Trypanosoma vivax, reported in cattle, occurred on two farms located in the state of Paraíba, northeastern Brazil. The epidemiology, clinical signs and pathology of the disease were studied from May 2005 to November 2006. T. vivax was identified morphologically and by polymerase chain reaction test (PCR). The affected cattle presented anorexia, depression, fever, anemia, weight loss, reduction in milk production, transitory blindness, abortion and some nervous signs as nystagmus, tetany and bruxism. All cattle that presented nervous signs died. Necropsy findings were enlarged lymph and spleen, serous atrophy of the fat depots, proeminence of the splenic white pulp, hydropericardium and pericardial petechiae and ecchymoses on the epicardium. Histologically there was meningoencephalitis. The treatment of the clinical cases with diminazena aceturate was efficient with clearance of the parasite from the blood or disappearance of clinical signs in up to 2 months after the beginning of the outbreak on the two farms studied. The epidemiologic factors favoring the occurrence of the outbreak were the abundance of mechanical vectors, as tabanids and Stomoxys sp., and the introduction into the herd of cattle from farms where the disease occurred. It is suggested that the semiarid of the Brazilian Northeast is an enzootic instability region for trypanosomiasis due to its prolonged periods of drought and high temperatures, constituting during most part of the year an unfavorable environment for the development of vectors.