PESQUISA VETERINÁRIA BRASILEIRA

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- De Conti J.B., Schossler J.E.W., Alievi M.M., Bonfada A.T., Novosad D., Silva D. & Pachaly J.R. 2007. [Use of Type II external skeletal fixator for tibiotarsus osteosynthesis in White Plymouth Rock chickens: An experimental model for using in wild birds.] Uso de fixador esquelético externo Tipo II para osteossíntese de tibiotarso em galinhas da raça Plymouth Rock Branca: modelo experimental para uso em aves selvagens. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasi-leira 27(5):199-204. Curso de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Estadual de Maringá, Estrada da Paca s/n, Zona Rural, Umuarama, PR 87502-000, Brazil. E-mail: julianodeconti@yahoo.com.br The efficiency of the Type II external skeletal fixator for the treatment of tibiotarsus fracture in eight adult White Plymouth Rock chickens was evaluated. The individuals were pre-medicated with morphine sulfate and anesthetized with halothane, and submitted to a diaphysary osteotomy in the left tibiotarsus, performed with an oscillatory saw. Four Kirschner wires were inserted through the bone cortices, being two proximally and two distally to the fracture. After the fracture reduction the ends of both proximal and distal wires were twisted in distal or proximal direction, respectively, being the wires connected by two bars of autopolymerizing acrylic resin, in the external lateral and medial faces of the limb. The return to full capability to use the member was observed in 20.00±7.09 days, and the bone healing occurred in 35.12±8.72 days. The results of this study showed that open reduction and use of Type II external skeletal fixator is an effective method for the treatment of tibiotarsus fractures in White Plymouth Rock chickens.

• Fracture birds tibiotarsus orthopedics external fixator Type II

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- De Conti J.B., Schossler J.E.W., Alievi M.M., Bonfada A.T., Novosad D., Silva D. & Pachaly J.R. 2007. [Use of Type II external skeletal fixator for tibiotarsus osteosynthesis in White Plymouth Rock chickens: An experimental model for using in wild birds.] Uso de fixador esquelético externo Tipo II para osteossíntese de tibiotarso em galinhas da raça Plymouth Rock Branca: modelo experimental para uso em aves selvagens. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasi-leira 27(5):199-204. Curso de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Estadual de Maringá, Estrada da Paca s/n, Zona Rural, Umuarama, PR 87502-000, Brazil. E-mail: julianodeconti@yahoo.com.br The efficiency of the Type II external skeletal fixator for the treatment of tibiotarsus fracture in eight adult White Plymouth Rock chickens was evaluated. The individuals were pre-medicated with morphine sulfate and anesthetized with halothane, and submitted to a diaphysary osteotomy in the left tibiotarsus, performed with an oscillatory saw. Four Kirschner wires were inserted through the bone cortices, being two proximally and two distally to the fracture. After the fracture reduction the ends of both proximal and distal wires were twisted in distal or proximal direction, respectively, being the wires connected by two bars of autopolymerizing acrylic resin, in the external lateral and medial faces of the limb. The return to full capability to use the member was observed in 20.00±7.09 days, and the bone healing occurred in 35.12±8.72 days. The results of this study showed that open reduction and use of Type II external skeletal fixator is an effective method for the treatment of tibiotarsus fractures in White Plymouth Rock chickens.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Rossi Jr J.L., Gioso M.A. & Domingues-F. L.M. 2007. [A comparative study about the prevalence of periodontal disease in Panthera onca, living in captivity and in the wild.] Estudo comparativo sobre prevalência de doença periodontal em Panthera onca mantida em cativeiro e em indivíduos de natureza. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(5):209-214. Departamento de Cirurgia da Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando de Marques de Paiva 87, Bloco 8-superior, Cidade Universitária, São Paulo, SP 05508-000, Brazil. E-mail: vetjrossi@gmail.com The aim was to survey the main oral lesions related with periodontal disease of jaguars, Panthera onca, living in captivity or in the wild, as conservation of threatened animals from extinction, as in case of the jaguar, and the preservation of such species in free life may be determined by environmental conditions which can influence oral health. Forty-two jaguars (P. onca) kept in captivity in 18 institutions in the state of São Paulo were studied. The animals to be examined were anesthetized by the Plan of Neotropical Handling of Felids. Additionally, 4 jaguars (P. onca) proceeding from wild life were captured for the study on Farm Sete, municipality of Miranda, Mato Grosso do Sul, in the southern Pantanal. All animals surveyed in captivity showed various degrees of oral lesions related to periodontal disease. The animals living in the wild did not present any clinical signs of oral lesions.

• Felidae Panthera onca captivity animals stomatognathic system periodontal disease

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Rossi Jr J.L., Gioso M.A. & Domingues-F. L.M. 2007. [A comparative study about the prevalence of periodontal disease in Panthera onca, living in captivity and in the wild.] Estudo comparativo sobre prevalência de doença periodontal em Panthera onca mantida em cativeiro e em indivíduos de natureza. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(5):209-214. Departamento de Cirurgia da Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando de Marques de Paiva 87, Bloco 8-superior, Cidade Universitária, São Paulo, SP 05508-000, Brazil. E-mail: vetjrossi@gmail.com The aim was to survey the main oral lesions related with periodontal disease of jaguars, Panthera onca, living in captivity or in the wild, as conservation of threatened animals from extinction, as in case of the jaguar, and the preservation of such species in free life may be determined by environmental conditions which can influence oral health. Forty-two jaguars (P. onca) kept in captivity in 18 institutions in the state of São Paulo were studied. The animals to be examined were anesthetized by the Plan of Neotropical Handling of Felids. Additionally, 4 jaguars (P. onca) proceeding from wild life were captured for the study on Farm Sete, municipality of Miranda, Mato Grosso do Sul, in the southern Pantanal. All animals surveyed in captivity showed various degrees of oral lesions related to periodontal disease. The animals living in the wild did not present any clinical signs of oral lesions.

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.- 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.- Ferrigno C.R.A., Schmaedecke A. & Ferraz V.C.M. 2007. [A new surgical approach to acetabular denervation in dogs.] Abordagem cirúrgica inédita para denervação acetabular em cães. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(1):61-63. Departamento de Cirurgia do Hospital Veterinário, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, São Paulo, SP 05508-900, Brazil. E-mail: cassioaf@usp.br The purpose of this study is to demonstrate a new surgical approach for the selective denervation of the sensitive fibers of the acetabular periosteum, for the treatment of hip dysplasia in dogs, conducted in 189 joints.The surgical approach of the cranial and dorso-lateral regions of the acetabular joint in dogs, by moon-shaped incision of approximately 3cm in extension, starting from the greater trocanter of the femur, in direction of the ileum body. After dorsal opening of the middle gluteal muscle, the insertion of the deep gluteal muscle is inserted for the access to the mentioned regions. With the help of a curette, the periosteum of the cranial and dorso-lateral acetabular margin was removed until the bone cortex was exposed, in all patients. In all animals, the approach was possible, both in the cranial as well as in the caudal faces for the access and curettage of the acetabulum, with the technique described, with a skin incision of about 3.2cm. The curettage of the cranial portion of the acetabulum was, in all cases, realized without the visualization of the bone, but of easy achievement and without intercurrences of nervous or muscular injuries. In all the approaches, it was possible to visualize the articular capsule of the coxo-femoral joint, and in none of the animals, this structure was incised for a technique mistake. The surgical approach described in the present study is feasible for this kind of surgical procedure in dogs, promoting adequate access, with minimal invasion and with no complications of any nature.

• Hip dysplasia surgical technique peripheral nerves dogs surgery

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Ferrigno C.R.A., Schmaedecke A. & Ferraz V.C.M. 2007. [A new surgical approach to acetabular denervation in dogs.] Abordagem cirúrgica inédita para denervação acetabular em cães. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(1):61-63. Departamento de Cirurgia do Hospital Veterinário, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, São Paulo, SP 05508-900, Brazil. E-mail: cassioaf@usp.br The purpose of this study is to demonstrate a new surgical approach for the selective denervation of the sensitive fibers of the acetabular periosteum, for the treatment of hip dysplasia in dogs, conducted in 189 joints.The surgical approach of the cranial and dorso-lateral regions of the acetabular joint in dogs, by moon-shaped incision of approximately 3cm in extension, starting from the greater trocanter of the femur, in direction of the ileum body. After dorsal opening of the middle gluteal muscle, the insertion of the deep gluteal muscle is inserted for the access to the mentioned regions. With the help of a curette, the periosteum of the cranial and dorso-lateral acetabular margin was removed until the bone cortex was exposed, in all patients. In all animals, the approach was possible, both in the cranial as well as in the caudal faces for the access and curettage of the acetabulum, with the technique described, with a skin incision of about 3.2cm. The curettage of the cranial portion of the acetabulum was, in all cases, realized without the visualization of the bone, but of easy achievement and without intercurrences of nervous or muscular injuries. In all the approaches, it was possible to visualize the articular capsule of the coxo-femoral joint, and in none of the animals, this structure was incised for a technique mistake. The surgical approach described in the present study is feasible for this kind of surgical procedure in dogs, promoting adequate access, with minimal invasion and with no complications of any nature.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Ferrigno C.R.A.,Della Nina M.I. & Fantoni D.T. 2007. [A comparative study of osteosynthesis with plates and plates associated with grafts of bone morphogenic proteins (Gen-Techâ) in distal radio-ulna fractures in dogs with less than 6 quilograms.] Estudo comparativo entre as osteossínteses com placas e osteossínteses com placas associadas a enxertos de proteína morfogenética óssea (Gen-Techâ) em fraturas distais de rádio-ulna em cães com menos de 6 quilos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(2):65-69. Departamento de Cirurgia do Hospital Veterinário, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, São Paulo, SP 05508-900. E-mail: cassioaf@usp.br It is well known that bone morphogenic proteins (BMP) cause osteogenesis, yet clinical research must be performed in order to really show their benefits. Animals weighing less than 6 kg show well known difficulties regarding radius and ulna fracture repair mainly with bone non-union, due to poor vascularization of the distal portion of the radius. Therefore this study aimed to compare the velocity of bone callus formation in the treatment of fracture repair with plates and screws alone or with plates and screws plus BMP. Thirty three dogs with radius and ulna fractures were distributed into two groups, where animals of the control group received the conservative treatment performed with screws and plates alone, whilst the other group received the conservative treatment and BMP. The time of bone callus formation was evaluated comparatively through radiographic exams 30, 60, 90, 120, 180 and 210 days after the surgical procedure. Animals treated with BMP showed a healing time of 32±15 days, which was significantly different (p <0.001) from the control group which required 127±34 days. With the results obtained, it can be concluded that the distal radio-ulna fractures of dogs weighing less than 6 kg suffered a significant reduction of the bone callus formation time, which was around 90 days.

• Bone morphogenic proteins BMP bone fractures bone plate dogs

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Ferrigno C.R.A.,Della Nina M.I. & Fantoni D.T. 2007. [A comparative study of osteosynthesis with plates and plates associated with grafts of bone morphogenic proteins (Gen-Techâ) in distal radio-ulna fractures in dogs with less than 6 quilograms.] Estudo comparativo entre as osteossínteses com placas e osteossínteses com placas associadas a enxertos de proteína morfogenética óssea (Gen-Techâ) em fraturas distais de rádio-ulna em cães com menos de 6 quilos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(2):65-69. Departamento de Cirurgia do Hospital Veterinário, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, São Paulo, SP 05508-900. E-mail: cassioaf@usp.br It is well known that bone morphogenic proteins (BMP) cause osteogenesis, yet clinical research must be performed in order to really show their benefits. Animals weighing less than 6 kg show well known difficulties regarding radius and ulna fracture repair mainly with bone non-union, due to poor vascularization of the distal portion of the radius. Therefore this study aimed to compare the velocity of bone callus formation in the treatment of fracture repair with plates and screws alone or with plates and screws plus BMP. Thirty three dogs with radius and ulna fractures were distributed into two groups, where animals of the control group received the conservative treatment performed with screws and plates alone, whilst the other group received the conservative treatment and BMP. The time of bone callus formation was evaluated comparatively through radiographic exams 30, 60, 90, 120, 180 and 210 days after the surgical procedure. Animals treated with BMP showed a healing time of 32±15 days, which was significantly different (p <0.001) from the control group which required 127±34 days. With the results obtained, it can be concluded that the distal radio-ulna fractures of dogs weighing less than 6 kg suffered a significant reduction of the bone callus formation time, which was around 90 days.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Domingues-F.L.M., Ferreira J., Lopes F.M., Tymoszczenko A. & Gioso M.A. 2007. The effect of timing temporary cements to treat induced pulp necrosis in the teeth of dogs. Revista Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(2):85-88. Departamento de Cirurgia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando de Marques de Paiva 87, Bloco 8-superior, Cidade Universitária, São Paulo, SP 05508-000, Brazil. E-mail: lesliedf@usp.br During endodontic therapy (pulpectomy, root canal debridement and root canal filling) microbiological management is a major concern. Bacteria present in dentine tubules, apical foramina and apical delta are causally related to failure of the procedure. Studies have shown that during single session endodontic treatment bacteria remain within dental structures. The aim of the present study was to evaluate endodontic treatment performed as two sessions, using temporary endodontic dressing materials for different periods in four groups of experimental dogs. A total of 80 roots of second and third upper premolar teeth and second, third and fourth lower premolar teeth were divided into four groups. The pulp chamber was opened with burrs and the pulp exposed for 60 days to induce pulpal inflammation and necrosis. Groups II, III and IV were treated with calcium hydroxide plus camphorated paramono-chlorophenol (PMCC) for 7, 15 and 30 days, respectively. In all groups, the root canals were filled with zinc oxide-eugenol and gutta-percha cones. Clinical and radiographical measurements were performed every 2 weeks. After 60 days a small block section containing the teeth, surrounding periapical tissues and the periodontium was removed for histological and microbiological study. Histological analysis revealed intense inflammatory response in all groups. Microbiological analysis showed microbial reduction inversely proportional to the period of time that the intracanal temporary medicament was left in place.

• Apical delta endodontic gutta-percha camphorated paramonochlorophenol microorganisms dogs

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Domingues-F.L.M., Ferreira J., Lopes F.M., Tymoszczenko A. & Gioso M.A. 2007. The effect of timing temporary cements to treat induced pulp necrosis in the teeth of dogs. Revista Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(2):85-88. Departamento de Cirurgia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando de Marques de Paiva 87, Bloco 8-superior, Cidade Universitária, São Paulo, SP 05508-000, Brazil. E-mail: lesliedf@usp.br During endodontic therapy (pulpectomy, root canal debridement and root canal filling) microbiological management is a major concern. Bacteria present in dentine tubules, apical foramina and apical delta are causally related to failure of the procedure. Studies have shown that during single session endodontic treatment bacteria remain within dental structures. The aim of the present study was to evaluate endodontic treatment performed as two sessions, using temporary endodontic dressing materials for different periods in four groups of experimental dogs. A total of 80 roots of second and third upper premolar teeth and second, third and fourth lower premolar teeth were divided into four groups. The pulp chamber was opened with burrs and the pulp exposed for 60 days to induce pulpal inflammation and necrosis. Groups II, III and IV were treated with calcium hydroxide plus camphorated paramono-chlorophenol (PMCC) for 7, 15 and 30 days, respectively. In all groups, the root canals were filled with zinc oxide-eugenol and gutta-percha cones. Clinical and radiographical measurements were performed every 2 weeks. After 60 days a small block section containing the teeth, surrounding periapical tissues and the periodontium was removed for histological and microbiological study. Histological analysis revealed intense inflammatory response in all groups. Microbiological analysis showed microbial reduction inversely proportional to the period of time that the intracanal temporary medicament was left in place.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Mathias L.A., Meirelles R.B. & Buchala F.G. 2007. [Stability of Brucella abortus whole cell antigen for use in the serological diagnosis of bovine brucellosis by the complement fixation test.] Estabilidade do antígeno de célula total de Brucella abortus para uso no diagnóstico sorológico da brucelose bovina pela reação de fixação de complemento. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(1):18-22. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias (FCAV), Universidade Estadual Paulista (Unesp), Jaboticabal, SP 14884-900, Brazil. E-mail: lmathias@fcav.unesp.br The complement fixation test is used worldwide in the confirmatory diagnosis of bovine brucellosis. For this technique the antigen is the same as the one used in the tube agglutination test. However, literature is poor in information about the stability of the whole cell Brucella antigen for use in the complement fixation test to establish a time of validity of the antigen. Hence the aim of this investigation was to evaluate the stability of this antigen under refrigeration for use in the complement fixation test. Fourteen batches of antigen prepared with Brucella abortus strain 1119/3, produced from 9 months to 23 years and 11 months before, were analysed. One hundred and sixty-seven cattle sera with varying titres of antibodies to Brucella were tested through the warm complement fixation microtechnique with five 50% haemolytic units of complement. Sera with at least 25% of complement fixation in dilution 1:4 were considered positive. The results with 13 of the antigen batches were compared with the results obtained with the batch produced 9 months before by the McNemar c2 test and kappa statistic. The oldest antigen batch gave a higher proportion of sera titres which were exactly the same observed with the 9-month-batch (90.4%), and the antigen produced 4 years and 3 months before the test gave de lowest proportion of sera with the same titre of the 9-month-antigen (73.7%). The comparison of the results after being classified as positive and negative showed that the highest proportion of agreed results was observed with the antigen produced 21 years and 4 months before (98.8%, kappa 0.98). The antigen with the lowest proportion of agreed results was the one produced 3 years and 2 months before (91.6%, kappa 0.84). The results of the study show that most sera gave very similar results with all antigen batches evaluated, and that there was no relationship between the period of antigen production and the difference in test results.

• Bovine brucellosis serological diagnosis complement fixation test

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Mathias L.A., Meirelles R.B. & Buchala F.G. 2007. [Stability of Brucella abortus whole cell antigen for use in the serological diagnosis of bovine brucellosis by the complement fixation test.] Estabilidade do antígeno de célula total de Brucella abortus para uso no diagnóstico sorológico da brucelose bovina pela reação de fixação de complemento. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(1):18-22. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias (FCAV), Universidade Estadual Paulista (Unesp), Jaboticabal, SP 14884-900, Brazil. E-mail: lmathias@fcav.unesp.br The complement fixation test is used worldwide in the confirmatory diagnosis of bovine brucellosis. For this technique the antigen is the same as the one used in the tube agglutination test. However, literature is poor in information about the stability of the whole cell Brucella antigen for use in the complement fixation test to establish a time of validity of the antigen. Hence the aim of this investigation was to evaluate the stability of this antigen under refrigeration for use in the complement fixation test. Fourteen batches of antigen prepared with Brucella abortus strain 1119/3, produced from 9 months to 23 years and 11 months before, were analysed. One hundred and sixty-seven cattle sera with varying titres of antibodies to Brucella were tested through the warm complement fixation microtechnique with five 50% haemolytic units of complement. Sera with at least 25% of complement fixation in dilution 1:4 were considered positive. The results with 13 of the antigen batches were compared with the results obtained with the batch produced 9 months before by the McNemar c2 test and kappa statistic. The oldest antigen batch gave a higher proportion of sera titres which were exactly the same observed with the 9-month-batch (90.4%), and the antigen produced 4 years and 3 months before the test gave de lowest proportion of sera with the same titre of the 9-month-antigen (73.7%). The comparison of the results after being classified as positive and negative showed that the highest proportion of agreed results was observed with the antigen produced 21 years and 4 months before (98.8%, kappa 0.98). The antigen with the lowest proportion of agreed results was the one produced 3 years and 2 months before (91.6%, kappa 0.84). The results of the study show that most sera gave very similar results with all antigen batches evaluated, and that there was no relationship between the period of antigen production and the difference in test results.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Silva D.M., Riet-Correa F., Medeiros R.M.T. & Oliveira O.F. 2006. [Toxic plants for livestock in the western and eastern Seridó, state of Rio Grande do Norte, in the Brazilian semiarid.] Plantas tóxicas para ruminantes no Seridó Ocidental e Oriental do Rio Grande do Norte. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(4):223-236. Hospital Veterinário, CSTR, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Campus de Patos, 58700-000 Patos, PB, Brazil. E-mail: franklin.riet@pesquisador.com.br To determine the occurrence of plant poisoning in the Western and Eastern Seridó regions of the state of Rio Grande do Norte, 82 persons including farmers, agronomists and veterinarians were interviewed. The two more important toxic plants are Ipomoea asarifolia, which causes nervous signs in sheep, goats and cattle, and Aspidosperma pyrifolium, leading to abortion in goats, sheep and cattle. The abortive properties of this plant had been demonstrated experimentally in goats, but not in sheep and cattle. Some farmers mentioned the poisoning by A. pyrifolium as a cause of nervous signs in equidae and cattle. Poisoning by cyanogenic plants including Manihot spp, Anadenanthera colubrina var. cebil (=Piptadenia macrocarpa), Sorghum bicolor and Sorghum halepense are important in the region. Important is also poisoning by Prosopis juliflora in cattle and with less frequency in goats, poisoning by Crotalaria retusa in horses, sheep and cattle, and by Mascagnia rigida in cattle. Poisoning by Brachiaria decumbens and Enterolobium contortisiliquum is sporadic. Other less important toxic plants in the region are Indigofera suffruticosa, Ipomoea carnea, and Ricinus communis. Some farmers reported poisoning by Marsdenia sp affecting sheep and cattle, and also a group of swine fed with the roots of the plant; the leaves and the roots are experimentally toxic to ruminants causing nervous signs, without histologic lesions. Another poisoning demonstrated experimentally is caused by Tephrosia cinerea and results in ascitis with hepatic fibrosis in sheep. Six farmers reported poisoning by Nerium oleander, always in cattle that had access to the shrub after been cut, mixed or not with other plants. Farmers mentioned also poisoning by other plants with unknown toxicity, including Paullinia sp, Passiflora sp, Dalechampia sp, Portulaca oleracea, Luffa acutangula, Cereus sp, Leersia hexandra, and Stemodia maritima. Echinochloa polystachya and Pennisetum purpureum, which cause nitrite poisoning were mentioned by some farmers as cause of cattle mortalities. One farmer mentioned an outbreak of poisoning in cattle and goats by Dieffenbachia picta which had been cut and left to the animals.

• Toxic plants ruminants semiarid region Rio Grande do Norte

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Silva D.M., Riet-Correa F., Medeiros R.M.T. & Oliveira O.F. 2006. [Toxic plants for livestock in the western and eastern Seridó, state of Rio Grande do Norte, in the Brazilian semiarid.] Plantas tóxicas para ruminantes no Seridó Ocidental e Oriental do Rio Grande do Norte. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(4):223-236. Hospital Veterinário, CSTR, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Campus de Patos, 58700-000 Patos, PB, Brazil. E-mail: franklin.riet@pesquisador.com.br To determine the occurrence of plant poisoning in the Western and Eastern Seridó regions of the state of Rio Grande do Norte, 82 persons including farmers, agronomists and veterinarians were interviewed. The two more important toxic plants are Ipomoea asarifolia, which causes nervous signs in sheep, goats and cattle, and Aspidosperma pyrifolium, leading to abortion in goats, sheep and cattle. The abortive properties of this plant had been demonstrated experimentally in goats, but not in sheep and cattle. Some farmers mentioned the poisoning by A. pyrifolium as a cause of nervous signs in equidae and cattle. Poisoning by cyanogenic plants including Manihot spp, Anadenanthera colubrina var. cebil (=Piptadenia macrocarpa), Sorghum bicolor and Sorghum halepense are important in the region. Important is also poisoning by Prosopis juliflora in cattle and with less frequency in goats, poisoning by Crotalaria retusa in horses, sheep and cattle, and by Mascagnia rigida in cattle. Poisoning by Brachiaria decumbens and Enterolobium contortisiliquum is sporadic. Other less important toxic plants in the region are Indigofera suffruticosa, Ipomoea carnea, and Ricinus communis. Some farmers reported poisoning by Marsdenia sp affecting sheep and cattle, and also a group of swine fed with the roots of the plant; the leaves and the roots are experimentally toxic to ruminants causing nervous signs, without histologic lesions. Another poisoning demonstrated experimentally is caused by Tephrosia cinerea and results in ascitis with hepatic fibrosis in sheep. Six farmers reported poisoning by Nerium oleander, always in cattle that had access to the shrub after been cut, mixed or not with other plants. Farmers mentioned also poisoning by other plants with unknown toxicity, including Paullinia sp, Passiflora sp, Dalechampia sp, Portulaca oleracea, Luffa acutangula, Cereus sp, Leersia hexandra, and Stemodia maritima. Echinochloa polystachya and Pennisetum purpureum, which cause nitrite poisoning were mentioned by some farmers as cause of cattle mortalities. One farmer mentioned an outbreak of poisoning in cattle and goats by Dieffenbachia picta which had been cut and left to the animals.

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.