Dermatite piogranulomatosa ulcerativa em bovino por Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis / Ulcerative pyogranulomatous dermatitis in bovine by Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis

Relata-se um caso de lesão cutânea secundária à infecção por Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis em bovino. Abscessos e múltiplas lesões cutâneas nodulares, variando de 8x10 para 20x25cm de diâmetro, firmes, sensíveis ao toque e sem mobilidade, algumas com superfície ulcerada, circundada por halo avermelhado e drenando secreção piossanguinolenta, e outras com superfícies alopécicas, foram identificados na região torácica lateral do animal. Exames histopatológicos e o isolamento do agente de fragmentos obtidos após remoção cirúrgica das lesões confirmaram tratar-se da forma cutânea da infecção pelo C. pseudotuberculosis. As lesões microscópicas caracterizaram-se por dermatite nodular piogranulomatosa e ulcerativa. A avaliação da susceptibilidade in vitro do C. pseudotuberculosis a antimicrobianos demonstrou que o agente era resistente à amicacina, kanamicina, neomicina e penicilina G, apresentando sensibilidade à ampicilina adicionada de subactam, amoxicilia com ácido clavulônico, cefalexina, cefalotina, cefotaxima, enrofloxacina, gentamicina e tetraciclina. A retirada cirúrgica das lesões e o tratamento com enrofloxacina resultaram na cura do animal. Lesões de pele observadas em casos de ptiose, carcinoma de células escamosas e na forma atípica da actinobacilose devem ser consideradas no diagnóstico diferencial da forma cutânea da infecção por C. pseudotuberculosis em bovinos. Os dados apresentados demonstram que a infecção pelo C. pseudotuberculosis deve ser considerada no diagnóstico diferencial das lesões de pele em bovinos no Brasil.(AU)

We report a case of secondary skin lesionby infection with Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis in bovine. Abscesses and multiple nodular lesions, ranging from 8x10 to 20x25 cm in diameter, firm, sensitive to touch, and without mobility, some with ulcerated surface, surrounded by reddish halo and draining piosanguinolenta secretion, and other surfaces with alopecia, were identified in the skin of the animal`s thoracic area. Histopathology and isolation of the agent from fragments obtained after surgical removal of the lesions confirmed the cutaneous infection by C. pseudotuberculosis. Microscopic lesions were characterized by lumpy skin disease and ulcerative pyogranulomatous. Evaluation of in vitro susceptibility to antimicrobial demonstrated that the agent was resistant to amikacin, kanamycin, neomycin and penicillin G, and sensitive to ampicillin + subactam, amoxicilia with clavulonic acid, cephalexin, cephalothin, cefotaxime, enrofloxacin, gentamicin, and tetracycline. The surgical removal of the lesions, and treatment with enrofloxacin resulted in animal cure. Skin lesions observed in case of ptiose, squamous cell carcinoma and atypical form of Actinobacillosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of cutaneous form of C. pseudotuberculosis infection in cattle. The data presented demonstrate that infection with C. pseudotuberculosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of skin lesions in cattle in Brazil.(AU)

Dermatite piogranulomatosa ulcerativa em bovino por Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis / Ulcerative pyogranulomatous dermatitis in bovine by Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis

Relata-se um caso de lesão cutânea secundária à infecção por Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis em bovino. Abscessos e múltiplas lesões cutâneas nodulares, variando de 8x10 para 20x25cm de diâmetro, firmes, sensíveis ao toque e sem mobilidade, algumas com superfície ulcerada, circundada por halo avermelhado e drenando secreção piossanguinolenta, e outras com superfícies alopécicas, foram identificados na região torácica lateral do animal. Exames histopatológicos e o isolamento do agente de fragmentos obtidos após remoção cirúrgica das lesões confirmaram tratar-se da forma cutânea da infecção pelo C. pseudotuberculosis. As lesões microscópicas caracterizaram-se por dermatite nodular piogranulomatosa e ulcerativa. A avaliação da susceptibilidade in vitro do C. pseudotuberculosis a antimicrobianos demonstrou que o agente era resistente à amicacina, kanamicina, neomicina e penicilina G, apresentando sensibilidade à ampicilina adicionada de subactam, amoxicilia com ácido clavulônico, cefalexina, cefalotina, cefotaxima, enrofloxacina, gentamicina e tetraciclina. A retirada cirúrgica das lesões e o tratamento com enrofloxacina resultaram na cura do animal. Lesões de pele observadas em casos de ptiose, carcinoma de células escamosas e na forma atípica da actinobacilose devem ser consideradas no diagnóstico diferencial da forma cutânea da infecção por C. pseudotuberculosis em bovinos. Os dados apresentados demonstram que a infecção pelo C. pseudotuberculosis deve ser considerada no diagnóstico diferencial das lesões de pele em bovinos no Brasil.(AU)

We report a case of secondary skin lesionby infection with Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis in bovine. Abscesses and multiple nodular lesions, ranging from 8x10 to 20x25 cm in diameter, firm, sensitive to touch, and without mobility, some with ulcerated surface, surrounded by reddish halo and draining piosanguinolenta secretion, and other surfaces with alopecia, were identified in the skin of the animal`s thoracic area. Histopathology and isolation of the agent from fragments obtained after surgical removal of the lesions confirmed the cutaneous infection by C. pseudotuberculosis. Microscopic lesions were characterized by lumpy skin disease and ulcerative pyogranulomatous. Evaluation of in vitro susceptibility to antimicrobial demonstrated that the agent was resistant to amikacin, kanamycin, neomycin and penicillin G, and sensitive to ampicillin + subactam, amoxicilia with clavulonic acid, cephalexin, cephalothin, cefotaxime, enrofloxacin, gentamicin, and tetracycline. The surgical removal of the lesions, and treatment with enrofloxacin resulted in animal cure. Skin lesions observed in case of ptiose, squamous cell carcinoma and atypical form of Actinobacillosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of cutaneous form of C. pseudotuberculosis infection in cattle. The data presented demonstrate that infection with C. pseudotuberculosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of skin lesions in cattle in Brazil.(AU)

Clinical Presentation Resembling Mucosal Disease Associated with 'HoBi'-like Pestivirus in a Field Outbreak.

The genus Pestivirus of the family Flaviviridae consists of four recognized species: Bovine viral diarrhoea virus 1 (BVDV-1), Bovine viral diarrhoea virus 2 (BVDV-2), Classical swine fever virus (CSFV) and Border disease virus (BDV). Recently, atypical pestiviruses ('HoBi'-like pestiviruses) were identified in batches of contaminated foetal calf serum and in naturally infected cattle with and without clinical symptoms. Here, we describe the first report of a mucosal disease-like clinical presentation (MD) associated with a 'HoBi'-like pestivirus occurring in a cattle herd. The outbreak was investigated using immunohistochemistry, antibody detection, viral isolation and RT-PCR. The sequence and phylogenetic analysis of 5'NCR, N(pro) and E2 regions of the RT-PCR positive samples showed that four different 'HoBi'-like strains were circulating in the herd. The main clinical signs and lesions were observed in the respiratory and digestive systems, but skin lesions and corneal opacity were also observed. MD characteristic lesions and a pestivirus with cytopathic biotype were detected in one calf. The present study is the first report of a MD like presentation associated with natural infection with 'HoBi'-like pestivirus. This report describes the clinical signs and provides a pathologic framework of an outbreak associated with at least two different 'HoBi'-like strains. Based on these observations, it appears that these atypical pestiviruses are most likely underdiagnosed in Brazilian cattle.

Nasal and cutaneous aspergillosis in a goat.

Nasal and cutaneous aspergillosis is reported in an adult goat. The clinical signs were severe respiratory distress due to partial nasal obstruction, bilateral mucopurulent nasal discharge, skin nodules on the ears and dorsal nasal region and focal depigmentation of the ventral commissure of the right nostril. At necropsy examination, sagittal sectioning of the head revealed a yellow irregular mass extending from the nasal vestibule to the frontal portion of the nasal cavity. Microscopically, there was pyogranulomatous rhinitis and dermatitis, with numerous intralesional periodic acid-Schiff-positive fungal hyphae morphologically suggestive of Aspergillus spp. Aspergillus niger was isolated by microbiological examination.

Periacinar liver fibrosis caused by Tephrosia cinerea in sheep.

Tephrosia cinerea has been associated with ascites and liver fibrosis in sheep in Brazil. The dried plant was fed ad libitum to three sheep for 55-80 days. Three additional sheep were used as controls. All the treated sheep presented with hypoalbuminemia and increased γ-glutamyltransferase and aspartate aminotransferase activities. Anorexia, apathy, rough coat, ascites, and emaciation were observed after 45-60 days of feeding with T. cinerea. At necropsy 55-80 days after feeding of the plant commenced, the treated sheep had ascites, hydrothorax and hydropericardium, and their livers were firm and whitish, with a nodular surface. Histologically, the main hepatic lesions were periacinar fibrosis associated with hemorrhages and necrosis. On electron microscopy, a severe swelling of sinusoidal endothelial cells, frequently obstructing the lumen of the sinusoid was observed. The space of Disse was compressed by the swollen endothelial cells and microvilli usually present on the surface of hepatocytes adjacent to the space of Disse were not apparent. Dense bundles of collagen fibers were present in the spaces of Disse and within the sinusoids between profiles of swollen endothelial cells. It is concluded that T. cinerea causes periacinar fibrosis, similar to poisoning by Galenia africana in sheep and goats and veno-occlusive disease in different species.

Dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa in goats.

Clinical, histopathological and ultrastructural findings of caprine dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (DEB) with autosomal recessive inheritance are reported. The goats presented with exungulation, erosions, crusts and scars on the skin and ulcers in the oral cavity. Microscopically, the skin showed subepidermal separation with clefts filled occasionally with clear eosinophilic fluid, cellular debris or neutrophils. Ultrastructurally, the site of blister formation was the sublamina densa in the epidermal basement membrane zone. In skin with blister formation and in clinically uninvolved skin, the basal lamina was preserved, but the anchoring fibrils were sparse and rudimentary. A twin brother of an affected kid was mated over 5 years with his mother; three out of the 10 kids born presented with epidermolysis bullosa, indicating that the disease has an autosomal recessive mode of inheritance. It is suggested that the disease is similar to human severe generalized recessive DEB.

Efeitos da suplementação com fósforo em caprinos no semiárido do nordeste brasileiro / Effect of phosphorus supplementation for goats in the Brazilian semiarid region

To evaluate the effect of phosphorus supplementation for goats grazing for the semiarid region, one group of 16 recently weaned Moxotó goats was supplemented with a mineral supplement containing Na, Cl, Zn, Cu, Se, Co, and P during 240 days. Another similar group was supplemented with a similar mineral supplement without P. The mean daily consumption of supplement by animal was of 7.09±2.77g and 7.67±3.14g for the groups with and without P, respectively. The mean weight gain of the P supplemented group (45.20±5.56g) was significantly higher (P<0.05) than the non-supplemented group (40.03±2.80g). The average total P in soil was 30.8mg/kg and in the pasture 0.13 percent in dry matter. These results demonstrate the occurrence of P deficiency in some areas of the Brazilian semiarid region.

High mortality and lesions of the central nervous system in trypanosomosis by Trypanosoma vivax in Brazilian hair sheep.

Here, we report an outbreak of Trypanosoma vivax-induced trypanosomosis in Brazilian hair sheep on a farm in Paraíba state, a non-endemic region in northeastern Brazilian. Of 306 total sheep, 240 showed clinical signs and 216 died. Clinical signs included anorexia, lethargy, anemia, rough hair coat, weight loss, submandibular edema, abortion, and in some cases, neurological signs such as head pressing, lateral recumbence, paddling movements and muscle tremors. T. vivax was identified by blood smear analysis and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). At necropsy, animals exhibited watery blood, pale tissue coloring, and the presence of liquid in the peritoneal cavity and pericardial sac. Histologically, nonsuppurative myocarditis and meningoencephalitis with areas of malacia were observed. After treatment, no parasites were detected by blood smear analysis or PCR. Cattle and buffalo that remained in the same pasture were also infected but presented with asymptomatic infections. Epidemiological data suggest that T. vivax was introduced to the farm and the susceptible flock by buffalos that were asymptomatic carriers of the infection; T. vivax was most likely transmitted by Tabanus spp. bites and also iatrogenically.

Anticorpos igg anti-Toxoplasma gondii em suínos abatidos em matadouros da região metropolitana do Recife, Pernambuco, Brasil / Igg antibodies to Toxoplasma gondii in pigs from slaughterhouses of the Recife metropolitan area, Pernambuco state, northeast Brazil

Objetivou-se avaliar a frequência da infecção por Toxoplasma gondii em suínos abatidos para o consumo humano em dois matadouros na Região Metropolitana do Recife, Pernambuco com inspeção Sanitária Estadual. A pesquisa de anticorpos foi realizada por meio da reação de Imunofluorescência indireta, adotando-se o ponto de corte 1:64. Foram analisados 327 animais provenientes de seis cidades, Abreu e Lima, Igarassu e Paulista, Carpina, Paudalho e Tracunhaém. Observou-se frequência de 9,78% de soros positivos, com diluições iguais ou superiores a 1: 64. Os resultados obtidos alertam sobre os riscos de infecção por T. gondii pela ingestão da carne suína crua ou mal cozida, pois é provável que os suínos soropositivos abriguem cistos teciduais, ressaltando a importância de um manejo de criação adequado, visando a diminuição do risco de infecção nesta espécie.

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the incidence of Toxoplasma gondii infection in pigs slaughtered for human consumption in two slaughterhouses with sanitary inspection in the Recife metropolitan area, Pernambuco State, Brazil. Antibody testing was performed by the indirect fluorescent antibody test, adopting the cut-off 1:64. A total of 327 animals were analyzed from six cities: Abreu e Lima, Paulista, Igarassu, Carpina, Paudalho and Tracunhaém. A frequency of 9.78% positive sera was observed for dilutions equal to or greater than 1:64. These data suggest risks of infection with Toxoplasma gondii by ingestion of raw or undercooked pork, since it is likely that seropositive pigs could contain tissue cysts, emphasizing the importance of creating a suitable management, aimed at reducing the risk of infection in this species.

Efeitos da suplementação com fósforo em caprinos no semiárido do nordeste brasileiro / Effect of phosphorus supplementation for goats in the Brazilian semiarid region

To evaluate the effect of phosphorus supplementation for goats grazing for the semiarid region, one group of 16 recently weaned Moxotó goats was supplemented with a mineral supplement containing Na, Cl, Zn, Cu, Se, Co, and P during 240 days. Another similar group was supplemented with a similar mineral supplement without P. The mean daily consumption of supplement by animal was of 7.09±2.77g and 7.67±3.14g for the groups with and without P, respectively. The mean weight gain of the P supplemented group (45.20±5.56g) was significantly higher (P<0.05) than the non-supplemented group (40.03±2.80g). The average total P in soil was 30.8mg/kg and in the pasture 0.13 percent in dry matter. These results demonstrate the occurrence of P deficiency in some areas of the Brazilian semiarid region.(AU)

ANTICORPOS IgG ANTI-TOXOPLASMA GONDII EM SUÍNOS ABATIDOS EM MATADOUROS DA REGIÃO METROPOLITANA DO RECIFE, PERNAMBUCO, BRASIL

ABSTRACT IGG ANTIBODIES TO TOXOPLASMA GONDII IN PIGS FROM SLAUGHTERHOUSES OF THE RECIFE METROPOLITAN AREA, PERNAMBUCO STATE, NORTHEAST BRAZIL. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the incidence of Toxoplasma gondii infection in pigs slaughtered for human consumption in two slaughterhouses with sanitary inspection in the Recife metropolitan area, Pernambuco State, Brazil. Antibody testing was performed by the indirect fluorescent antibody test, adopting the cut-off 1:64. A total of 327 animals were analyzed from six cities: Abreu e Lima, Paulista, Igarassu, Carpina, Paudalho and Tracunhaém. A frequency of 9.78% positive sera was observed for dilutions equal to or greater than 1:64. These data suggest risks of infection with Toxoplasma gondii by ingestion of raw or undercooked pork, since it is likely that seropositive pigs could contain tissue cysts, emphasizing the importance of creating a suitable management, aimed at reducing the risk of infection in this species.

RESUMO Objetivou-se avaliar a frequência da infecção por Toxoplasma gondii em suínos abatidos para o consumo humano em dois matadouros na Região Metropolitana do Recife, Pernambuco com inspeção Sanitária Estadual. A pesquisa de anticorpos foi realizada por meio da reação de Imunofluorescência indireta, adotando-se o ponto de corte 1:64. Foram analisados 327 animais provenientes de seis cidades, Abreu e Lima, Igarassu e Paulista, Carpina, Paudalho e Tracunhaém. Observou-se frequência de 9,78% de soros positivos, com diluições iguais ou superiores a 1: 64. Os resultados obtidos alertam sobre os riscos de infecção por T. gondii pela ingestão da carne suína crua ou mal cozida, pois é provável que os suínos soropositivos abriguem cistos teciduais, ressaltando a importância de um manejo de criação adequado, visando a diminuição do risco de infecção nesta espécie.

In vitro modulation of Bcl-2 levels in small cell lung cancer cells: effects on cell viability.

Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is an aggressive disease, representing 15% of all cases of lung cancer, has high metastatic potential and low prognosis that urgently demands the development of novel therapeutic approaches. One of the proposed approaches has been the down-regulation of BCL2, with poorly clarified and controversial therapeutic value regarding SCLC. The use of anti-BCL2 small interfering RNA (siRNA) in SCLC has never been reported. The aim of the present study was to select and test the in vitro efficacy of anti-BCL2 siRNA sequences against the protein and mRNA levels of SCLC cells, and their effects on cytotoxicity and chemosensitization. Two anti-BCL2 siRNAs and the anti-BCL2 G3139 oligodeoxynucleotide (ODN) were evaluated in SCLC cells by the simultaneous determination of Bcl-2 and viability using a flow cytometry method recently developed by us in addition to Western blot, real-time reverse-transcription PCR, and cell growth after single and combined treatment with cisplatin. In contrast to previous reports about the use of ODN, a heterogeneous and up to 80% sequence-specific Bcl-2 protein knockdown was observed in the SW2, H2171 and H69 SCLC cell lines, although without significant sequence-specific reduction of cell viability, cell growth, or sensitization to cisplatin. Our results question previous data generated with antisense ODN and supporting the present concept of the therapeutic interest in BCL2 silencing per se in SCLC, and support the growing notion of the necessity of a multitargeting molecular approach for the treatment of cancer.

In vitro modulation of Bcl-2 levels in small cell lung cancer cells: effects on cell viability

Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is an aggressive disease, representing 15 percent of all cases of lung cancer, has high metastatic potential and low prognosis that urgently demands the development of novel therapeutic approaches. One of the proposed approaches has been the down-regulation of BCL2, with poorly clarified and controversial therapeutic value regarding SCLC. The use of anti-BCL2 small interfering RNA (siRNA) in SCLC has never been reported. The aim of the present study was to select and test the in vitro efficacy of anti-BCL2 siRNA sequences against the protein and mRNA levels of SCLC cells, and their effects on cytotoxicity and chemosensitization. Two anti-BCL2 siRNAs and the anti-BCL2 G3139 oligodeoxynucleotide (ODN) were evaluated in SCLC cells by the simultaneous determination of Bcl-2 and viability using a flow cytometry method recently developed by us in addition to Western blot, real-time reverse-transcription PCR, and cell growth after single and combined treatment with cisplatin. In contrast to previous reports about the use of ODN, a heterogeneous and up to 80 percent sequence-specific Bcl-2 protein knockdown was observed in the SW2, H2171 and H69 SCLC cell lines, although without significant sequence-specific reduction of cell viability, cell growth, or sensitization to cisplatin. Our results question previous data generated with antisense ODN and supporting the present concept of the therapeutic interest in BCL2 silencing per se in SCLC, and support the growing notion of the necessity of a multitargeting molecular approach for the treatment of cancer.

Imunidade passiva, ingestão de colostro e mortalidade em cabritos Moxotó criados em sistemas extensivo e intensivo / Passive immunity, colostrum ingestion, and mortality of Moxotó kids raised under extensive and intensive breeding systems

Dosou-se a proteína sérica total para avaliar a aquisição de imunidade passiva em cabritos Moxotó. Para tal, formaram-se quatro grupos experimentais, sendo dois sistemas de criação, extensivo e intensivo, e dois manejos de colostro, ingestão natural e artificial. Tanto no sistema intensivo quanto no extensivo, os teores de proteína no soro foram significativamente mais altos nos animais com ingestão natural de colostro, 7,11±0,2g/dL, do que nos com ingestão artificial, 6,35±0,17g/dL. Independentemente da forma de ingestão de colostro, os cabritos do sistema intensivo tiveram teores de proteína sérica total, 7,21±0,19g/dL, mais elevados que os do sistema extensivo, 6,25±0,18g/dL, no entanto a imunidade passiva foi satisfatória nos dois grupos de animais. Ocorreu alta mortalidade de crias no sistema extensivo, 37 por cento, devido ao complexo hipotermia/inanição em decorrência dos baixos níveis de colostro ingeridos. No sistema intensivo de criação não ocorreu mortalidade de cabritos. A produção de colostro das cabras criadas intensivamente, 163,5±14,71mL, foi mais alta que das cabras criadas extensivamente, 53,75±19,12mL. O peso total dos cabritos foi semelhante nos dois sistemas de criação, 2881±252,78g no sistema extensivo, e 2297±194,59g no sistema intensivo. Conclui-se que a ingestão de colostro nos dois sistemas de produção permitiu adequada aquisição de imunidade em cabritos, porém o sistema extensivo determinou severa deficiência nutricional nas mães, com baixa produção de colostro e graves perdas de neonatos.(AU)

The acquisition of passive immunity in Moxotó kids was determined by dosages of total serum proteins. Four experimental groups were formed in two breeding systems - extensive and intensive - and two managements of colostrum intake - suckling from the mother or supplying in bottles. In both breeding systems, the serum protein levels were significantly higher in kids with natural ingestion of colostrum, 7.11±0.2g/dL, than in kids with artificial ingestion, 6.35±0.17g/dL. The kids of the intensive system had levels of total serum protein of 7.21±0.19 g/dL which was higher than the one of the extensive breeding system, 6.25±0.18g/dL. However, the passive immunity was satisfactory in all groups. There was high mortality of kids, 37 percent, due to starvation/hypothermia, in the extensive breeding system. This mortality was apparently due to the low levels of colostrum ingestion, 55.83±8.7mL. The production of colostrum by does from intensive breeding sistem, 163.5±14.71mL, was significantly higher than those from extensive breeding system, 53.75±19.12mL. The total weight of the kids born in the extensive breeding system, 2,881±252.78g, was similar to those born in the intensive breeding system, 2,297±194.59g. The colostrum ingestion allowed appropriate immunity acquisition by kid raised under both systems. However, the extensive breeding system determined a severe nutritional deficiency in the does with low colostrum production and high neonatal losses.(AU)

Imunidade passiva, ingestão de colostro e mortalidade em cabritos Moxotó criados em sistemas extensivo e intensivo / Passive immunity, colostrum ingestion, and mortality of Moxotó kids raised under extensive and intensive breeding systems

Dosou-se a proteína sérica total para avaliar a aquisição de imunidade passiva em cabritos Moxotó. Para tal, formaram-se quatro grupos experimentais, sendo dois sistemas de criação, extensivo e intensivo, e dois manejos de colostro, ingestão natural e artificial. Tanto no sistema intensivo quanto no extensivo, os teores de proteína no soro foram significativamente mais altos nos animais com ingestão natural de colostro, 7,11±0,2g/dL, do que nos com ingestão artificial, 6,35±0,17g/dL. Independentemente da forma de ingestão de colostro, os cabritos do sistema intensivo tiveram teores de proteína sérica total, 7,21±0,19g/dL, mais elevados que os do sistema extensivo, 6,25±0,18g/dL, no entanto a imunidade passiva foi satisfatória nos dois grupos de animais. Ocorreu alta mortalidade de crias no sistema extensivo, 37 por cento, devido ao complexo hipotermia/inanição em decorrência dos baixos níveis de colostro ingeridos. No sistema intensivo de criação não ocorreu mortalidade de cabritos. A produção de colostro das cabras criadas intensivamente, 163,5±14,71mL, foi mais alta que das cabras criadas extensivamente, 53,75±19,12mL. O peso total dos cabritos foi semelhante nos dois sistemas de criação, 2881±252,78g no sistema extensivo, e 2297±194,59g no sistema intensivo. Conclui-se que a ingestão de colostro nos dois sistemas de produção permitiu adequada aquisição de imunidade em cabritos, porém o sistema extensivo determinou severa deficiência nutricional nas mães, com baixa produção de colostro e graves perdas de neonatos.

The acquisition of passive immunity in Moxotó kids was determined by dosages of total serum proteins. Four experimental groups were formed in two breeding systems - extensive and intensive - and two managements of colostrum intake - suckling from the mother or supplying in bottles. In both breeding systems, the serum protein levels were significantly higher in kids with natural ingestion of colostrum, 7.11±0.2g/dL, than in kids with artificial ingestion, 6.35±0.17g/dL. The kids of the intensive system had levels of total serum protein of 7.21±0.19 g/dL which was higher than the one of the extensive breeding system, 6.25±0.18g/dL. However, the passive immunity was satisfactory in all groups. There was high mortality of kids, 37 percent, due to starvation/hypothermia, in the extensive breeding system. This mortality was apparently due to the low levels of colostrum ingestion, 55.83±8.7mL. The production of colostrum by does from intensive breeding sistem, 163.5±14.71mL, was significantly higher than those from extensive breeding system, 53.75±19.12mL. The total weight of the kids born in the extensive breeding system, 2,881±252.78g, was similar to those born in the intensive breeding system, 2,297±194.59g. The colostrum ingestion allowed appropriate immunity acquisition by kid raised under both systems. However, the extensive breeding system determined a severe nutritional deficiency in the does with low colostrum production and high neonatal losses.

Cutaneous and nasal protothecosis in a goat.

A case of protothecosis is reported in an adult goat with inspiratory dyspnea and stertor. Dermatitis with prominent ulcerated nodules up to 3 cm in diameter was observed in the muzzle at the mucocutaneous junctions of nasal and lip skin, and in the border of the pinna. Histologic lesions were necrotizing pyogranulomatous dermatitis and rhinitis with myriads of walled sporangia, characteristic of Prototheca wickerhamii. This seems to be the first report of protothecosis in a goat.

Relief influence on the spatial distribution of the Atlantic Forest cover on the Ibiúna Plateau, SP.

Several studies suggest that, on a large scale, relief conditions influence the Atlantic Forest cover. The aim of this work was to explore these relationships on a local scale, in Caucaia do Alto, on the Ibiúna Plateau. Within an area of about 78 km(2), the distribution of forest cover, divided into two successional stages, was associated with relief attribute data (slope, slope orientation and altitude). The mapping of the vegetation was based on the interpretation of stereoscopic pairs of aerial photographs, from April 2000, on a scale of 1:10,000, while the relief attributes were obtained by geoprocessing from digitalized topographic maps on a scale of 1:10,000. Statistical analyses, based on qui-square tests, revealed that there was a more extensive forest cover, irrespective of the successional stage, in steeper areas (>10 degrees) located at higher altitudes (>923 m), but no influence of the slope orientation. There was no sign of direct influence of relief on the forest cover through environmental gradients that might have contributed to the forest regeneration. Likewise, there was no evidence that these results could have been influenced by the distance from roads or urban areas or with respect to permanent preservation areas. Relief seems to influence the forest cover indirectly, since agricultural land use is preferably made in flatter and lower areas. These results suggest a general distribution pattern of the forest remnants, independent of the scale of study, on which relief indirectly has a strong influence, since it determines human occupation.

Relief influence on the spatial distribution of the Atlantic Forest cover on the Ibiúna Plateau, SP

Several studies suggest that, on a large scale, relief conditions influence the Atlantic Forest cover. The aim of this work was to explore these relationships on a local scale, in Caucaia do Alto, on the Ibiúna Plateau. Within an area of about 78 km², the distribution of forest cover, divided into two successional stages, was associated with relief attribute data (slope, slope orientation and altitude). The mapping of the vegetation was based on the interpretation of stereoscopic pairs of aerial photographs, from April 2000, on a scale of 1:10,000, while the relief attributes were obtained by geoprocessing from digitalized topographic maps on a scale of 1:10,000. Statistical analyses, based on qui-square tests, revealed that there was a more extensive forest cover, irrespective of the successional stage, in steeper areas (>10 degrees) located at higher altitudes (>923 m), but no influence of the slope orientation. There was no sign of direct influence of relief on the forest cover through environmental gradients that might have contributed to the forest regeneration. Likewise, there was no evidence that these results could have been influenced by the distance from roads or urban areas or with respect to permanent preservation areas. Relief seems to influence the forest cover indirectly, since agricultural land use is preferably made in flatter and lower areas. These results suggest a general distribution pattern of the forest remnants, independent of the scale of study, on which relief indirectly has a strong influence, since it determines human occupation.

Vários estudos sugerem que as condições do relevo influenciam, em larga escala, a cobertura da Mata Atlântica. Este trabalho teve por objetivo explorar estas relações em escala local, na região do Planalto de Ibiúna, denominada de Caucaia do Alto. Numa área de cerca de 78 km², procurou-se associar a cobertura florestal, dividida em dois estádios sucessionais, com atributos do relevo (declividade, orientação de vertente e altitude). O mapeamento da vegetação foi feito a partir da interpretação de pares estereoscópicos de fotografias aéreas de abril de 2000, na escala 1:10.000, enquanto os atributos do relevo foram gerados por geoprocessamento a partir de cartas topográficas digitalizadas, em escala 1:10.000. As análises estatísticas, baseadas em testes de qui-quadrado, revelam que há maior cobertura florestal, independentemente do estádio sucessional, em áreas mais íngremes (>10 graus) e situadas em altitudes mais elevadas (>923 m), porém não há influência da orientação de vertente. Não há indícios de influência direta do relevo sobre a cobertura florestal, através de gradientes ambientais que poderiam agir na regeneração florestal. Também não foram obtidas evidências de que estes resultados possam ser influenciados pelo distanciamento a estradas ou centros urbanos, ou ainda pelo respeito às áreas de preservação permanente. O relevo parece determinar o recobrimento florestal, principalmente por condicionar o uso agrícola dos solos, que se dá preferencialmente em áreas mais planas e baixas. Estes resultados sugerem um padrão geral de influência do relevo sobre a distribuição dos remanescentes florestais, independentemente da escala de estudo, onde o relevo atua indiretamente ao condicionar a ocupação humana.

Trypanosomiasis by Trypanosoma vivax in cattle in the Brazilian semiarid: Description of an outbreak and lesions in the nervous system.

An outbreak of trypanosomiasis by Trypanosoma vivax is reported in the semiarid of Paraíba, Northeastern Brazil from May to August 2002. Sixty-four cows out of 130 were affected; 11 died and the other recovered after treatment with diminazene aceturate. Affected animals had fever, anemia, weight loss, hypoglycemia, increased serum levels of aspartate aminotransferase and, in nine cows, nervous signs. All cows with nervous signs died; six of them recovered after treatment, but the disease relapsed. Six cows aborted and one delivered a calf that died immediately after parturition. Thirty-two out of 100 calves were affected and five died. Nervous signs were not observed in the calves. Gross lesions were thickening of the meninges, enlarged lymph nodes and prominent white pulp of the spleen. The main histological lesion was meningoencephalitis and malacia in the brain of cows with nervous signs. No antibodies against trypanosomes were found in 33 blood samples collected before the outbreak in the affected farm and in 29 samples collected at the same time in two other neighbor farms. Until January 2003, all 89 animals tested had antibodies against T. vivax, suggesting the occurrence of sub clinical infections in cattle without clinical signs. Only two out of 85 serum samples collected on April 2004 were positive for T. vivax antibodies. Data obtained suggested that the semiarid region is non-endemic for trypanosomiasis and that disease occurred due to introduction of the parasite in a susceptible population after an apparent rise in the Tabanus spp. population.

Relief influence on the spatial distribution of the Atlantic Forest cover on the Ibiúna Plateau, SP

Several studies suggest that, on a large scale, relief conditions influence the Atlantic Forest cover. The aim of this work was to explore these relationships on a local scale, in Caucaia do Alto, on the Ibiúna Plateau. Within an area of about 78 km², the distribution of forest cover, divided into two successional stages, was associated with relief attribute data (slope, slope orientation and altitude). The mapping of the vegetation was based on the interpretation of stereoscopic pairs of aerial photographs, from April 2000, on a scale of 1:10,000, while the relief attributes were obtained by geoprocessing from digitalized topographic maps on a scale of 1:10,000. Statistical analyses, based on qui-square tests, revealed that there was a more extensive forest cover, irrespective of the successional stage, in steeper areas (>10 degrees) located at higher altitudes (>923 m), but no influence of the slope orientation. There was no sign of direct influence of relief on the forest cover through environmental gradients that might have contributed to the forest regeneration. Likewise, there was no evidence that these results could have been influenced by the distance from roads or urban areas or with respect to permanent preservation areas. Relief seems to influence the forest cover indirectly, since agricultural land use is preferably made in flatter and lower areas. These results suggest a general distribution pattern of the forest remnants, independent of the scale of study, on which relief indirectly has a strong influence, since it determines human occupation.

Vários estudos sugerem que as condições do relevo influenciam, em larga escala, a cobertura da Mata Atlântica. Este trabalho teve por objetivo explorar estas relações em escala local, na região do Planalto de Ibiúna, denominada de Caucaia do Alto. Numa área de cerca de 78 km², procurou-se associar a cobertura florestal, dividida em dois estádios sucessionais, com atributos do relevo (declividade, orientação de vertente e altitude). O mapeamento da vegetação foi feito a partir da interpretação de pares estereoscópicos de fotografias aéreas de abril de 2000, na escala 1:10.000, enquanto os atributos do relevo foram gerados por geoprocessamento a partir de cartas topográficas digitalizadas, em escala 1:10.000. As análises estatísticas, baseadas em testes de qui-quadrado, revelam que há maior cobertura florestal, independentemente do estádio sucessional, em áreas mais íngremes (>10 graus) e situadas em altitudes mais elevadas (>923 m), porém não há influência da orientação de vertente. Não há indícios de influência direta do relevo sobre a cobertura florestal, através de gradientes ambientais que poderiam agir na regeneração florestal. Também não foram obtidas evidências de que estes resultados possam ser influenciados pelo distanciamento a estradas ou centros urbanos, ou ainda pelo respeito às áreas de preservação permanente. O relevo parece determinar o recobrimento florestal, principalmente por condicionar o uso agrícola dos solos, que se dá preferencialmente em áreas mais planas e baixas. Estes resultados sugerem um padrão geral de influência do relevo sobre a distribuição dos remanescentes florestais, independentemente da escala de estudo, onde o relevo atua indiretamente ao condicionar a ocupação humana.