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Procedeu-se ao estudo comparativo das técnicas - de Coloração de Sellers, Imunofluorescência Direta e Inoculação em Camundongos, utilizadas na rotina de diagnóstico laboratorial da raiva e praticadas sobre 2.242 amostras de cérebro de cães, enviadas ao Instituto Pasteur de São Paulo, durante o período de janeiro de 1974 a abril de 1976. As técnicas de Inoculação em Camundongos e de Imunofluorescência Direta foram as que apresentaram maior grau de Sensibilidade, sendo essa associação a que forneceu maior Concordância e valor significante mais alto para o x2 (Qui quadrado). A técnica de Coloração de Sellers foi a que apresentou menor grau de Sensibilidade e sua associação com as técnicas de Imunofluorescência Direta e de Inoculação em Camundongos forneceu resultados de Concordância e x2 (Qui quadrado) inferiores aos obtidos pela associação dessas duas técnicas. A comparative study was made of three techniques: Coloration of Sellers, Direct Immunofluorescence, and Inoculation in Mice - used in the routine of laboratory diagnosis of rabies and applied on 2,242 samples of dog brains which were sent to the Pasteur Institute of Sã0 Paulo, between January 1974 and April 1976. The techniques of mice inoculation and of direct immunofluorescence were the ones which presented higher degree of sensitivity; this association resulted in a greater rapport and a higher significative value for the x2 (square Qui). The techniques of Sellers Coloration resulted in a lower degree of sensitivity, and its association with the techniques of direct immunofluorescence and inoculation in mice gave over results of rapport and x2 than those obtained by the association of the two latter techniques.

The preference for ready-to-eat sliced foods may pose an increased risk for food-borne diseases, and a major concern is the presence of Listeria monocytogenes. L. monocytogenes was assessed in two types of products: cooked ham and salami. One hundred and thirty samples of each product were acquired in retail shops in the city of Sao Paulo and submitted to laboratory analysis. The rate of positives was significantly higher in salami samples than in ham samples (6.2% and 0.8%, respectively). L. monocytogenes counts in salami samples varied between

This study investigated the presence of potentially human pathogenic strains of Vibrio spp., Aeromonas spp., Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp. and Staphylococcus aureus in fish commercialized in street markets of Sao Paulo city, Brazil. Twenty fish of different species were analyzed for foodborne pathogens using conventional methods. High levels of fecal contamination were detected in 25% of samples. S. aureus was isolated from 10% of samples. All were negative for Salmonella. Vibrio species, including Vibrio cholerae non-O1/non-O139, were observed in 85% of samples although Vibrio parahaemolyticus was not found in this study. Aeromonas spp., including A. hydrophila, was isolated from 50% of fish samples. The occurrence of these pathogens suggests that the fish commercialized in Sao Paulo may represent a health risk to the consumers. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS Fish and fish products represent an important vehicle of gastrointestinal infection in the world. International trade in fish and its derivatives has grown substantially over the last decades and continue to expand; requiring rigorous sanitary control. The integration of world-wide commerce, among other reasons, has led to increased fish consumption around world Moreover, healthier lifestyles and cultural globalization have popularized the consumption of raw fish dishes, which were historically restricted to oriental countries. This study suggests that fish can represent health risks.

Tema em Debate

The HACCP system is being increasingly used to ensure food safety. This study investigated the validation of the control measures technique in order to establish performance indicators of this HACCP system in the manufacturing process of Lasagna Bolognese (meat lasagna). Samples were collected along the manufacturing process as a whole, before and after the CCPs. The following microorganism’s indicator (MIs) was assessed: total mesophile and faecal coliform counts. The same MIs were analyzed in the final product, as well as, the microbiological standards required by the current legislation. A significant reduction in the total mesophile count was observed after cooking (p

Foram imunizados 26 macacos-pregos (Cebus apella) adultos, através da via intramuscular, com uma dose de 1,0 ml da vacina anti-rábica Fuenzalida & Palacios, inativada, produzida a partir de cérebros de camundongos lactentes, de uso veterinário, empregada nas campanhas de prevenção da raiva animal de cães e gatos. Os animais pertenciam a três grupos experimentais, previamente imunizados com vacina anti-rábica Fuenzalida & Palacios submetidos a diferentes esquemas de vacinação, e permaneceram em cativeiro durante o período de junho de 1996 a junho de 1997. A revacinação foi realizada em todos os animais. As amostras de soros foram obtidas aos 0, 30, 180 e 365.dias, e armazenadas à temperatura de -20ºC, e a dosagem dos anticorpos realizada através do teste simplificado da inibição da fluorescência. Verificou-se após a revacinação 17/25 (68%) dos animais pertencentes aos grupos I, II e III, que se apresentavam com títulos inferiores ao limite indicativo de soroconversão (0,05). A vacina anti-rábica Fuenzalida & Palacios induziu a resposta imune nos macacos-pregos, após revacinação com produção de anticorpos neutralizantes, iguais ou superiores a 0,5 UI/ml, porém, de curta duração; não constituindo assim, imunógeno apropriado para ser utilizado na rotina de imunização destes animais de difícil lide, mantidos em cativeiro. Twenty-six capuchin monkeys (Cebus apella) were intramuscularly immunized with 1.0 ml dose of a veterinary inactivated suckling mouse brain rabies vaccine (SMBV) employed in campaigns for rabies prevention in dogs and cats. The animals belonged to three experimental groups previously vaccinated with SMBV and different schemes, were kept in captivity from June, 1996 to June, 1997. All animals received a booster dose. Serum samples were obtained at the 0th, 30 th, 180th and 365 th days and kept stored at -20ºC. The antibodies dosage was carried out through the simplified inhibition fluorescent test. After a booster dose 17/25 (68%) of animals belonged to groups I, II and III, that had neutralizing antibodies above 0.5 IU/ml produced a humoral immune response equal or higher than 0.5 IU/ml, and another five animals that had neutralizing antibodies higher than 0.5 IU/ml kept in these levels. In relationship to longer humoral immune response there is no statistical difference between all groups, G-I x G-II, G-I x GIII, G-II x G-III (p>0,05). The SMBV induced humoral immune response in capuchin monkeys after a booster dose, producing neutralizing antibodies equal to or higher than 0.5 IU/ml; however, they were short-lasting, being therefore not appropriate as an immunogen to be used routinely in the immunization of these animals which are difficult both to be dealed with and to be kept in captivity.

The relationship between microbiological characteristics of raw milk and the quality of high-heat whole powder made from it was investigated. To this end, 16 lots of milk standardized for fat and non-fat solids were used. Powder average levels of mesophiles and psychrotrophs were 7.8 x 10¹ and 4.0 x 10¹ CFU/g, respectively, and these values correlated positively (P < 0.05) with the corresponding raw milk counts (8.1 x 10(6) and 1.8 x 10(7) CFU/g, respectively). A significant positive correlation (P < 0.05) was also observed between raw milk psychrotroph counts and titratable acidity of milk powder (range: 0.15 - 0.19 as % lactic acid). Samples of powder produced from raw milk with higher psychrotroph levels were found to have higher insolubility indexes, yet this relationship was not statistically significant. The importance of milk hygienic control as a basic instrument to warrant commercial milk powder quality is discussed.Neste trabalho, avaliou-se a relação entre a qualidade do leite em pó integral e os principais parâmetros microbiológicos do leite empregado como matéria-prima, utilizando-se 16 lotes de leite padronizado quanto aos teores de gordura e sólidos não gordurosos. Os níveis médios de microrganismos mesófilos e psicrotróficos do produto em pó foram 7,8 x 10¹ e 4,0 x 10¹ UFC/g, respectivamente, sendo que estes valores estiveram correlacionados significativamente (P < 0,05) com as contagens de mesófilos e psicrotróficos do leite cru (níveis médios de 8,1 x 10(6) e 1,8 x 10(7) UFC/g, respectivamente). Observou-se, também, uma correlação significativa (P < 0,05) entre a contagem de psicrotróficos do leite cru e o teor de acidez titulável do produto em pó, cujos valores variaram de 0,15 a 0,19% (em ácido lático). As amostras de leite em pó produzido a partir de leite cru contendo níveis elevados de psicrotróficos apresentaram maiores índices de insolubilidade, porém, a correlação entre estes parâmetros não foi significativa. Discute-se a importância do controle das condições higiênicas do leite cru, como instrumento fundamental para garantir a qualidade do produto em pó oferecido ao consumo.

Submitted by Guilherme Lemeszenski (guilherme@nead.unesp.br) on 2013-08-22T18:41:15Z No. of bitstreams: 1 S1517-83822000000100017.pdf: 154621 bytes, checksum: 9e6843955589030fa1bd629c7f4959b1 (MD5) Made available in DSpace on 2013-08-22T18:41:15Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 1 S1517-83822000000100017.pdf: 154621 bytes, checksum: 9e6843955589030fa1bd629c7f4959b1 (MD5) Previous issue date: 2000-03-01 Made available in DSpace on 2013-09-30T19:27:42Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 2 S1517-83822000000100017.pdf: 154621 bytes, checksum: 9e6843955589030fa1bd629c7f4959b1 (MD5) S1517-83822000000100017.pdf.txt: 18707 bytes, checksum: 8bfc74d226841de1cf974bcfc5bd64e0 (MD5) Previous issue date: 2000-03-01 Submitted by Vitor Silverio Rodrigues (vitorsrodrigues@reitoria.unesp.br) on 2014-05-20T15:07:40Z No. of bitstreams: 2 S1517-83822000000100017.pdf: 154621 bytes, checksum: 9e6843955589030fa1bd629c7f4959b1 (MD5) S1517-83822000000100017.pdf.txt: 18707 bytes, checksum: 8bfc74d226841de1cf974bcfc5bd64e0 (MD5) Made available in DSpace on 2014-05-20T15:07:40Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 2 S1517-83822000000100017.pdf: 154621 bytes, checksum: 9e6843955589030fa1bd629c7f4959b1 (MD5) S1517-83822000000100017.pdf.txt: 18707 bytes, checksum: 8bfc74d226841de1cf974bcfc5bd64e0 (MD5) Previous issue date: 2000-03-01 O diagnóstico laboratorial da raiva é realizado através de métodos de pesquisa do corpúsculo de Negri, imunofluorescência direta e inoculação em camundongos. Na maioria dos casos, quando a amostra é bem coletada, bem conservada e o profissional responsável possui experiência, verifica-se concordância entre as técnicas utilizadas. A Seção de Raiva e Encefalomielite do Instituto Biológico ao comparar a sensibilidade das três técnicas diagnósticas, em 3713 amostras (córtex cerebral, cerebelo e hipocampo) recebidas no período de 1980-1994, sendo 3010 da espécie bovina (983 positivas) e 703 da espécie eqüina (111 positivas), observou que, no caso da raiva eqüina, esta concordância não é mantida. Verificou-se, nesta espécie, que somente em algumas oportunidades foi possível identificar, pelo método histopatológico, o corpúsculo de Negri. em relação à prova de imunofluorescência pode-se afirmar que a mesma detectou uma porcentagem menor de amostras positivas, provenientes da espécie equina, em compração com as da espécie bovina, sendo esta diferença estatisticamente significativa. A prova biológica foi a mais sensível, porém houve uma diferença, também significativa, entre o período de incubação em camundongos das amostras de origem bovina e das de origem eqüina. A presença pouco frequente de corpúsculos de Negri e o período de incubação em camundongos mais prolongado, das amostras de origem eqüina, sugerem que devem ser intensificados os estudos da patogenia da raiva nesta espécie. Rabies laboratory diagnosis is performed by using microscopic examination for Negri bodies (MEN), fluorescent-antibody test (FAT) and mouse inoculation test (MIT). In the majority of cases, when specimens are properly collected and conserved and the laboratory worker has good experience, agreement among employed techniques is verified. Comparing the sensitivity of these three diagnosis techniques in 3,713 samples (hippocampus and brain stem) received during 1981-1994 period, being 3,010 from bovine (983 positives) and 703 from equine (111 positives) species, it was observed that in equine rabid samples, this agreement was not maintained. For the latter specie, only in few opportunities the Negri bodies could be observed. With respect to FAT, the test detected a lower porcentage of positive equine samples compared to bovine species. Statistical analysis demonstrated that the difference was significative. Mouse inoculation test proved to be more sensitive. However, a significant difference in mice incubation period was observed for samples from both species. The absence of inclusion bodies and the longer incubation period for equine samples suggest that rabies pathogenesis studies for equine species have to be intensified. Instituto Biológico Seção de Raiva e Encefalomielite Instituto Biológico Laboratório Regional de Pindamonhangaba Universidade Estadual Paulista Departamento de Apoio, Produção e Saúde Animal Universidade de São Paulo Faculdade de Saúde Pública Universidade Estadual Paulista Departamento de Apoio, Produção e Saúde Animal

Studies were conducted to evaluate antigens of Taenia solium (Tso) and Taenia crassiceps (Tcra) cysticerci in the ELISA test for the diagnosis of swine cysticercosis. The samples analyzed were cysticercosis positive and negative control sera and heterologous sera. Four antigens were assayed: vesicular fluid (VF) and crude (T) Tcra and scolex (S) and crude (T) Tso. All antigens showed good performance, but VF-Tcra was the best followed by T-Tcra. Sensitivity rates of ELISA were respectively, in 2nd and 3rd standard deviation cut-offs, 96.0 and 80.0% for the VF antigen and specificity of 97.5 and 100.0%. Cross-reactivity was verified only for hidatidosis and ascaridiosis. Due to the high performance observed, the ELISA test using Tcra antigens should be recommended for the diagnosis of swine cysticercosis.

Foram revistos os conceitos de maior relevância sobre mecanismos de toxicidade e evidências do envolvimento das aflatoxinas na etiologia do câncer hepático humano. A aflatoxina B1 (AFB1), principal metabólito produzido por fungos do gênero Aspergillus, manifesta seus efeitos tóxicos após conversão hepática em AFB1-epóxido, o qual reage com macromoléculas celulares, incluindo proteínas, RNA (ácido ribonucléico) e DNA (ácido desoxirribonucléico). A reação com o DNA ocorre através da ligação com guaninas, ao nível do códon 249, do gene supressor de tumores p53. Em seres humanos, estudos de biomonitoramento individual de derivados AFB1-N7-guanina tem demonstrado que as aflatoxinas constituem importantes fatores de risco, com uma provável interação sinergística com o vírus da hepatite B, para o desenvolvimento do carcinoma hepatocelular em populações expostas. Considerando-se a ocorrência freqüente das aflatoxinas em produtos alimentícios, no Brasil, ressalta-se a necessidade de estudos que avaliem criteriosamente o impacto dos níveis de exposição a estas toxinas sobre a saúde humana. Current concepts derived from intensive research over the last decade, on biotransformation, mechanisms of toxicity and evidences for the involvement of aflatoxins in the etiolgy of human liver cancer are summarily presented. Aflatoxin B1(AFB1), the main metabolite produced by moulds of genus Aspergillus, exerts its effects after conversion to the reactive compound AFB1-epoxide, by the action of cytochrome P450-dependent enzymes. This epoxide can form derivatives with cellular macromolecules, including proteins, RNA and DNA. The reaction with DNA occurs with guanines in the códon 249 of tumor suppressor gene p53. Primary biotransformation of AFB1 also produces hydroxylated and less toxic derivatives, such as aflatoxins Q1 and P1. Differences intra and interspecies in the pathways of activation/detoxification are directly related to the susceptibility of animals to aflatoxin effects. In humans, studies of individual biomonitoring of AFB1 metabolites such as AFB1-N7-guanine have demonstrated that aflatoxins constitute an important risk factor for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in exposed populations. Some of these studies also show a synergistic action between aflatoxins and the hepatitis B virus in the development of human HCC. In view of these concepts, and taking into account the frequent detection of aflatoxins in Brazilian foodstuffs, the need for investigation into the level of exposure to these toxins and its impact on human health is stressed.

Background This study was performed to determine the fungal mycoflora in healthy tufted capuchins primates (Cebus sp) kept in captivity and semicaptivity to allow a more realistic interpretation on the basis of fungi isolated from their skin. Furthermore, we aimed at evaluating the potential risk of infection to humans by fungi perpetuated in the tegument of monkeys of this genus. Methods For the collection of skin material, the carpet method was used, followed by seeding in Sabouraud dextrose agar culture media, Mycosel agar, Dermatophyte Test Medium and Sabouraud agar supplemented with olive oil. Results Seventeen genera of fungi were detected, being three of them isolated only in the captivity animals (Acremonium – Cephalosporium, Phoma and Trichosporon). The genera of fungi with the higher frequencies were identified in the semicaptivity capuchins (Fusarium, Aspergillus and Penicillium). Conclusions Many of the genera of fungi identified are potential pathogens for immune-compromised monkeys and humans.

O desempenho do ensaio por enzimas imuno-adsorvidas (ELISA), mediante o emprego de conjuntos de reativos produzidos em escala comercial, para determinação de aflatoxina, foi avaliado em condições experimentais, através de análises repetidas, em amostras de leite em pó reconstituído contaminadas com concentrações conhecidas da fração M1 da toxina. Para os níveis de 0,10; 0,20; 0,50; e, 1,00 ng/ml, os percentuais de recuperação foram: 83,0%; 87,5%; 103,0%; e, 111,8%, respectivamente. O desvio-padrão relativo, para as referidas concentrações, foi, respectivamente, 65,5%; 31,8%; 10,9% e 13,6% (n=10, para cada nível de contaminação). Os resultados obtidos demonstram que o método é apropriado para pesquisas e levantamentos sobre a ocorrência de aflatoxina M1 em leite, sobretudo nas faixas de concentração entre 0,20 - 1,00 ng/ml. The evaluation of commercially available test systems of competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), for Aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) was performed in experimental conditions, through repeated analysis, in samples of milk powder contamined with known concentrations of the toxin. Recoveries of AFM1 added to milk at levels of 0.10, 0.20, 0.50 and 1.00 ng/ml were 83.0%, 87.5%, 103.0% and 111.8% respectively. Relative standard deviations for the above mentioned concentrations were 65.5%, 31.8%, 10.9% and 13.6%, respectively (n =10, per spiking level). According to these results the ELISA is appropriate for AFM1 research and/or surveying, mainly for concentrations between 0.20 - 1.00 ng/ml.

Since Staphylococcus aureus can cause several types of diseases, the development of antibiotic resistance poses an even greater threat to public health. S. aureus is known to possess the adaptive capability to promptly respond to antibiotics, making it resistant and increasingly difficult to treat; methicillin-resistant strains of S. aureus are a major concern with regard to this species. Previous studies reported the identification of methicillin-resistant S. aureus in food, demonstrating that this can represent a source of S. aureus which may carry the mecA gene. Fifty-seven S. aureus isolates, previously obtained from different types of food, were screened by polymerase chain reaction with specific primers for the mecA gene, which mediates methicillin resistance. Five (9%) isolates showed the presence of mecA gene, demonstrating that food may contain microorganisms possessing resistance genes. This study emphasizes the need to include food as a possible source of S. aureus carrying mecA gene and the need to monitor these products. Moreover, this is the first report of the presence of mecA genes in S. aureus isolated from ready-to-eat food in Brazil and Latin America.

Estudou-se a prevalência da cisticercose bovina (Cysticercus bovis) no Estado de São Paulo, no ano de 1986, a partir de fichas de matadouros do Estado sob o controle do Serviço de Inspeção Federal (SIF). Para o estudo da distribuição geográfica, adotou-se a divisão político-administrativa do Estado, formada por 11 Regiões Administrativas (RAs) e a Região Metropolitana (RM), subdivididas em 42 Regiões de Governo (RGs), abrangendo 572 municípios. Aos valores de prevalência obtidos aplicou-se o teste "Z" para duas proporções. O total de abate foi igual a 896.654 cabeças, tendo sido diagnosticados 48.957 casos de cisticercose, correspondendo a uma prevalência de 5,5%. Obteve-se resultados de prevalência para 385 municípios, todas as RGs, RAs e a RM. Apresentaram resultados estatisticamente significantes 97 municípios, 14 RGs e 4 RAs. A retrospective study of Cysticercus bovis in cattle raised and slaughtered in the State of S. Paulo, Brazil, during the year of 1986, was undertaken on the basis of official records of the Brazilian Meat Inspection Service. The analysis of its spacial distribution was carried out in accordance with the political-administrative division adopted by the State Government, composed of 11 Administrative Regions (ARs) and one Metropolitan Region (MR), subdivided into 42 Governmental Regions (GRs), totaling 572 municipalities. The prevalence rates of each political-administrative unit were statistically compared using the "Z" test of two proportions. From records relating to 896,654 head, 48,957 cases of cysticercosis were detected, equivalent to a prevalence of 5.5% in the State. The prevalence results were obtained for 385 municipalities, in 42 GRs, 11 ARs and in the MR. Statistically significant prevalence values were observed in 97 municipalities, in 14 GRs and 4 ARs.

Foram determinadas as concentrações de mercúrio total em amostras de musculatura de pescada-do-piauí (Plagioscion squamosissimus) em 35 exemplares capturados em 6 pontos de captura do reservatório da Usina Hidrelétrica de Barra Bonita, localizado na bacia hidrográfica do Tietê Médio Superior (São Paulo) e em 36 exemplares capturados em 4 pontos de captura do reservatório Usina Hidrelétrica de Rosana, localizado na bacia hidrográfica do Paranapanema Baixo (São Paulo/Paraná), no ano de 1994. Para tanto, foi empregada a técnica da espectrofotometria de absorção atômica sem chama, utilizando-se o espectrofotômetro VARIAN®, modelo SpectrAA-10 e o acessório de geração de vapor frio, modelo VGA-76. Adicionalmente, foram registrados o peso total, o comprimento standard e o comprimento total dos exemplares analisados. Os valores das concentrações de mercúrio nos exemplares do reservatório de Barra Bonita variaram de 0,06 a 0,52 µg/g, com média igual a 0,25 µg/g. No reservatório de Rosana, os valores variaram de 0,04 a 0,42 µg/g, com média igual a 0,19 µg/g. No reservatório de Barra Bonita, em 3 exemplares (8,6%) os níveis de mercúrio ultrapassaram o limite máximo permissível para consumo humano igual a 0,5 µg/g, enquanto que no reservatório de Rosana todos os valores encontraram-se abaixo deste limite. Para os exemplares capturados no reservatório de Barra Bonita, constatou-se a existência de correlação entre peso total e comprimento standard, peso total e concentração de mercúrio e comprimento standard e concentração de mercúrio (p < 0,001) sendo os valores obtidos iguais a 0,96, 0,66 e 0,69, respectivamente. Do mesmo modo, para os exemplares capturados no reservatório de Rosana, os mesmos coeficientes de correlação foram iguais a 0,97, 0,69 e 0,69, respectivamente (p < 0,001). Concentrations of total mercury in samples of muscle of \"pescada-do-piauí\" (Plagioscion squamosissimus) were determined in 35 specimens caught in 6 sampling sites at the Barra Bonita reservoir, localized at the river basin of Tietê Superior (São Paulo; Brazil) and 36 specimens caught in 4 sampling sites at the Rosana reservoir, localized at the river basin of Paranapanema Baixo (São Paulo/Paraná; Brazil), in 1994. It was used the flameless atomic absorption spectrophotometry technique, with the spectophotometer VARIAN® , SpectrAA-10 model and the vapor generation accessory, VGA-76 model. Additionally, total weight and total and standard length of the analized specimens were registered. The mercury concentrations values in Barra Bonita reservoir specimens varied form 0.06 to 0.52 µ/g with a 0.25 µ/g rate. In the Rosana reservoir specimens values varied from 0.04 to 0.42 µ/g with a 0.19 µ/g rate. In the Barra Bonita reservoir, in 3 specimens (8.6%), mercury leveis exceeded the maximum permitted limit for human consuption equal to 0.5 µ/g, while in the Rosana reservoir all values were under this limit. In the specimens caught in the Barra Bonita reservoir, a correlation was observed between total weight and standard length, total weight and mercury concentrations, and standard length and mercury concentrations (p < 0.001); the values obtained were respectively equal to 0.96, 0.66 and 0.69. In the same way, the specimens caught in the Rosana reservoir, the same correlation was observed (p < 0.001) and the values were respectively equal to 0.97, 0.69 and 0.69.

Avaliou-se, em camudongos, os níveis de proteção conferidos por uma vacina anti-rábica atenuada, preparada em cultura de tecido renal a partir da amostra ERA, frente a diferentes variantes antigênicas dos vírus da raiva. Utilizaram-se dois esquemas de vacinação, representados por uma única dose e por 6 doses aplicadas em dias alternados. Os diferentes camundogos dos grupos experimentais foram desafiados, em diversos períodos pós-imunização (15, 30, 60 e 120 dias), com variantes procedentes de cães (São Paulo e Nigéria), de morcego (DR-19 e Pernambuco), de raposa (Rio Grande do Norte) e CVS "Challenge Virus Standard". Os resultados obtidos permitiram constatar que a vacina ERA foi eficaz contra todas as variantes de rua e silváticas do vírus rábico, independentemente do esquema vacinal. Contra as cepas adaptadas no laboratório DR-19 e CVS, quando aplicada em uma única dose, sua eficácia foi menor do que quando aplicada em 6 doses.

Laboratory diagnosis is essential to confirm suspected cases of equine rabies and to determine the medical care needed for human postexposure antirabies prophylaxis. Equine rabies transmitted by the vampire bat, Desmodus rotundus, has increased gradually in the State of Sao Paulo. The present study has several objectives, the most important being the evaluation of fluorescent antibody test (FAT) and virus-isolation laboratory tests performed with different equine nervous system tissues (cortical, hippocampus, cerebellar, brainstem and cervical medullar) to determine the tissue for which the two techniques have the highest sensitivity. Analysis by FAT of these five regions of the central nervous system (CNS) from 35 animals showed that there was a greater amount of viral antigen in the brainstem and cervical medullar tissues than in the hippocampus, cortical and cerebellar tissues. While there were no significant differences in the mortality rate of mice inoculated with suspension prepared from the different tissues, a trend towards higher mortality rate was detected with brainstem and cervical medullar tissues. Laboratory diagnosis was not affected by whether the animal had been vaccinated or not, or whether it had died following the natural course of the disease or as a result of euthanasia. Isolation of the rabies virus in equine salivary glands demonstrated the potential risk for humans exposed to infected animals.

Em levantamento retrospectivo de 19 anos (1984-2002), envolvendo a totalidade de 39524 casos dermatopáticos, de caninos e felinos, atendidos no Serviço de Dermatologia do VCM-HOVET/FMVZ-USP, identificou-se um total de 2907 (7,3%) casos de escabiose. Respectivamente, 2283 (78,5%) e 624 (21,5%) animais, eram das espécies canina e felina. A frequência de ocorrência da sarna sarcóptica (6,4%) foi inferior àquela da sarna notoédrica (15,7%), esta última, duas e meia vezes mais freqüente que a congênere canina, sendo tal diferença significativa (p

Foram vacinados contra a raiva, dois grupos de macacos-pregos adultos, com a vacina inativada preparada em cérebros de camundongos lactentes, administrada pela via intramuscular, na Fundação Parque Zoológico de São Paulo. Os animais em momento algum haviam sido imunizados contra a raiva. O grupo I consistia de nove animais, que receberam três doses de 1,0 mL nos dias 0, 30 e uma dose de reforço aos 210 dias, e o grupo II continha 10 animais que receberam duas doses de 1,0 mL no dia 0 e uma dose de reforço aos 210 dias. As amostras de sangue foram colhidas aos 0, 30º, 60º, 90º, 150º, 210º, 240º, 300º e 365º dias, e os anticorpos neutralizantes titulados pela técnica simplificada da inibição de focos fluorescentes. A vacina induziu uma resposta imune de curta duração com títulos de anticorpos neutralizantes acima de 0.5 UI/mL em ambos os grupos; entretanto a resposta imune persistiu por apenas 54,9 + 57,0 e 36,1 + 60,2 dias nos Grupos I e II respectivamente após a primo vacinação, e, por apenas 62,6 + 74,0 e 86,4 + 61,5 dias nos Grupos I e II respectivamente após o reforço. Não houve diferença estatística significante entre os grupos estudados (p >; 0,05). Two groups of adult capuchin monkeys (Cebus apella) were vaccinated i.m. against rabies with inactivated suckling mouse brain rabies vaccine (SMBV), at the Zoo Park Foundation in São Paulo, SP, Brazil. The animals had not been immunized against rabies at any time before. Group I consisted of nine animals, to which were given three 1.0mL doses on days 0 and 30, plus a booster on day 210. Group II comprehended ten animals, to which were given two 1.0mL doses: one, on day 0 and, another, a booster, on day 210. The blood samples were collected on days 0, 30, 60, 90, 150, 210, 240, 300 and 365, being the titrated neutralizing antibodies determined by the simplified fluorescent focus inhibition technique. The vaccine induced immune responses with neutralizing antibody titers above 0.5 IU/m in both groups of capuchin monkeys; however, they were short, lasting 54.9 ± 57.0 days and 36.1 ± 60.2 days in Groups I and II, respectively, after primo-vaccination, and 62.6 ± 74.0 and 86.4 ± 61.5 days in Groups I and II, respectively, after a booster. No statistically significant differences were observed out between the two groups studied (p >; 0.05).

Eight capuchin monkeys (Cebus apella) were vaccinated against rabies with an inactivated suckling mouse brain vaccine (SMBV). Three 1-ml doses of 2% brain tissue suspension were given by i.m. injection at 0, 30, and 60 days. Blood samples were collected at 0, 30, 60, 90, 150, 210, 240, 300, and 365 days and were tested by simplified fluorescence inhibition to titer-neutralizing antibodies. All of the animals developed neutralizing antibodies with titers >0.5 IU/ml after vaccination, but the immune response persisted for only 122.3 ± 32.6 days. The SMBV was able to induce immune response in the capuchin monkeys, but protection was short-lived.

O estudo foi realizado com 29 macacos-pregos (Cebus apella). Foram colhidas 50 amostras de suabe da mucosa oral, junto a transicao muco-gengival maxilar, com auxilio de zaragatoas esterilizadas, embebidas em caldo Brain Heart Infusion (BHI). Todos os animais foram submetidos a exame clinico para avaliacao periodontal. As amostras obtidas foram cultivadas em meios apropriados: caldo simples, caldo BHI, e agar sangue para o isolamento de cocos Gram-positivos aerobios da familia Micrococcaceae. Para sua classificacao utilizou-se as provas de catalase, Staphy-test (teste rapido para caracterizacao de Staphylococcus aureus) e sensibilidade a bacitracina. Foram identificados 73,1% de Staphylococcus spp; 15,4% de Staphylococcus aureus; e 11,5% Micrococcus spp. As cepas isoladas foram testadas em relacao a sua suscetibilidade a antibioticos pela tecnica de difusao em agar. Verificou-se para as cepas de Staphylococcus spp, 94,7% de sensibilidade a cefalotina e resistencia de 89,5% a penicilina, 97,4% a oxacilina, 55,3% a tetraciclina, 57,9% a clindamicina e 63,2% a amoxicilina. Os dados obtidos demonstraram que a cefalotina foi o antibiotico para o qual as amsotras de Staphylococcus spp estudadas apresentaram, in vitro, maior grau de sensibilidade.

Se utilizó la técnica del inmunoblot para el diagnóstico de la cisticercosis porcina usando un antígeno total de cisticercos de Taenia crassiceps. Fueron analizados 13 sueros del cerdo con cisticercosis, 30 sueros controles negativos y ocho sueros del cerdo con hidatidosis, así como nueve del suino con macracantorincosis, 10 con ascaridiosis y ocho con pulmonía. El uso de este antígeno en el inmunoblot con suero de cerdos no se había publicado previamente. El inmunoblot fue padronizado por análisis de titulación en bloque mostrando 100.0% de sensibilidad y 96.7% de especificidad. Los péptidos específicos para la cisticercosis en orden de frecuencia fueron: 72-68 kD (100%), 16-15 kD (77%), 39-36 kD (62%), 18-17 kD (54%), 21 kD (31%), 14 kD (23%), 25-23 kD (8%), y 20-19 kD (8%). Reacción cruzada (72-68 y 18-17 kD) sólo se descubrió en una muestra (12.5%) de cerdo con hidatidosis. Debido a sus altas tasas de desempeño, el inmunoblot debe ser útil para confirmar el diagnóstico de cisticercosis porcina y es más eficaz que otras pruebas empleadas para este propósito, como examen de la lengua, examen anatomopatológico y ELISA

Foi padronizado o teste ELISA para o diagnóstico da cisticercose suína. Após confirmação por exame post-mortem, os soros dos respectivos animais foram empregados como controles positivos e negativos. Soros de suínos portadores de infecções heterólogas foram ensaiados para determinação de reações cruzadas. Os quatro antígenos testados na fase de padronização foram líquido vesicular (VF) e extrato total (T) de larvas de Taenia crassiceps (Tcra) e de extrato de escólex (S) e de cisticercos (T) de Taenia solium (Tso). A titulação em bloco das ótimas concentrações de antígenos e diluições de soros e de conjugado, bem como o emprego de Tween-20 e de leite desnatado nas soluções bloqueadora e de lavagem exerceram nítida influência no desempenho do teste ELISA. Todos os antígenos revelaram bom desempenho na diferenciação entre soros positivos e negativos para cisticercose. O antígeno VF-Tcra apresentou as mais altas taxas de desempenho, seguido do T-Tcra. As taxas de desempenho para o antígeno VF-Tcra foram, respectivamente, para pontos de corte com 2sd e 3sd, de 96,0% e 80,0% para sensibilidade e de 97,5% e 100,0% para especificidade. Foi detectada reação cruzada com soros de hidatidose e de ascaridiose. Considerando o bom desempenho observado, o teste padronizado pode ser recomendado em matadouros no diagnóstico de animais suspeitos e no levantamento da ocorrência da doença nos segmentos de criação, sobretudo nos clandestinos, dando suporte às medidas de controle da cisticercose, integradas em toda a cadeia de produção da carne suína, exercendo efetiva contribuição à Saúde Pública. In the present study ELISA was standardized for the diagnosis of swine cysticercosis based on necropsy parameters and confirmed positive and negative control sera. Serum samples from pigs with other infections were also assayed to determine possible cross-reactions. Four antigens were assayed: from Taenia crassiceps vesicular fluid (VF-Tcra) and crude larvae extract (T-Tcra), and from Taenia solium extracts of scolex (S-Ts) and of larvae (T-Ts). A checkerboard evaluation of antigen, serum and conjugate dilutions, as well as the use of Tween-20 and skim cow milk in wash and blocking solution had a marked effect on improving ELISA performance. All the antigens showed a good performance, but VF-Tcra was the best, with 96.0% and 80.0% sensitivities for cut-offs respectively at 2sd and 3sd, and corresponding specificities of 97.5% and 100.0%. Cross-reactivity was observed only with hydatidosis and ascaridiosis. In view of the high performance observed, the ELISA test should be recommended for the diagnosis of cysticercosis in suspected swine in slaughterhouses and for the screening of cysticercosis in swine production. These results will support integrated measures of cysticercosis control throughout the chain of swine production, effectively contributing to public health.

Estudo epidemiológico tipo caso-controle realizado em Uberlândia, Minas Gerais (MG), Brasil, pesquisou a ocorrência de brucelose em bovinos com bursite cervical, abatidos no período de agosto de 1993 a julho de 1994. O diagnóstico sorológico de brucelose foi realizado mediante a prova de soroaglutinação rápida em placa. Os casos de bursite foram identificados por técnico do Serviço de Inspeção Federal (SIF), com base em características morfológicas, previamente padronizadas. Para a determinação da "Razão de Odds" e do risco atribuível entre bursite e brucelose, utilizaram-se 30 animais com o quadro e, como controle, 90 bovinos sem a patologia. Dos animais com bursite, 13,3% eram brucélicos, contra 5,6% do grupo controle (P=0,115). Dentre aqueles com brucelose e bursite, as bolsas continham fibrina (40,0%) e projeções digitiformes (33,3%); apenas nas bursites dos sorologicamente negativos encontraram-se presença de pus, de nódulos e de líquido viscoso. A "Razão de Odds" encontrada entre brucelose e bursite foi da ordem de 2,61, não sendo demonstrado associação entre bursite cervical e sorologia positiva para brucelose (P>0,05). No âmbito da Saúde Pública e ocupacional, sugere-se a atenção de técnicos e profissionais, visando diminuir o risco de infecção e evitar contaminação de carcaças, equipamentos e instalações. Epidemiological study case-control type carried out in Triângulo abattoir in the city of Uberlândia in the State of Minas Gerais, Brazil, has identified the ocorrence of brucelosis in bovine with supraspinous bursitis, slaughtered from August, 1993 to July, 1994. To diagnose brucelosis "Rapid Agglutination" test was performed on plate with the padronizated antigen count considered positive over 100. The bursas examined were identified by technicians of the Federal Inspection Service based on the presence of ten standardized morphological characteristics. Using the case-control design, 30 animals identified as having supraspinous bursitis were compared with 90 animals randomly selected, without bursitis- but with other characteristics (sex, background, lot, conformation) similar to those affected. All animals were, then, tested for brucelosis. Within the animals with bursitis, 13.33% were found to have brucelosis against 5.56% in the control group (P=0.115). The presence of pus, nodules and viscous fluid was found only among animals who tested negative for brucelosis. The odds ratio found between brucelosis and supraspinous bursitis was 2.61 (P>0.05). As a conclusion it s suggested attention of technicians and profesionals employed in slaughter houses aiming to reduce the risk of human infection, as well as of carcasses, equipment and installations contamination.

Aflatoxin M1 was surveyed in 300 samples of whole milk powder consumed by infants at municipal schools and nurseries in Sao Paulo, Brazil. The analyses were performed by using commercially available test systems of a direct competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Samples were reconstituted in water (1:8), centrifuged at 1630 x gav for 15 min, and submitted directly to the assay without clean-up procedures. Results showed 33 (11%) positive samples for aflatoxin M1 at levels of 0.10-1.00 ng/ml (mean: 0.27 +/- 0.20 ng/ml). By using data on milk consumption patterns for 4-month-old children (highest intake), a mean daily intake of 3.7 ng/kg body weight/day was estimated. The implications of these data on human health are discussed.

Bovine, equine and swine sera from areas free from vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) Indiana 3 (IND3)--namely Argentina, Chile, Italy and Uruguay--and endemic areas (in Brazil) were examined for anti-VSV IND3 virus antibodies in order to compare results obtained using the virus neutralisation (VN) test and liquid-phase blocking enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Statistical analysis of the data showed close agreement between the two techniques (K = 0.92). The ELISA gave a higher specificity, positive predictive value and efficiency than the VN test. The ELISA offers the additional advantage of using a non-infectious antigen and can therefore be used for antibody quantification in diagnostic laboratories in VSV-free areas to support epidemiological surveillance programmes.

In order to evaluate the occurrence of Toxoplasma gondii infection in cats infected with feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), 22 serum samples obtained from diseased cats harbouring FIV were submitted to an indirect immunofluorescence antibody test to Toxoplasma. Another 58 ill cats, but that were negative for FIV antibody test and 35 healthy animals, also FIV negative, comprised the second and the third group, respectively. All cats were negative for feline leukemia virus test. The results showed that cats infected with FIV (Grupo I) presented a higher frequency of Toxoplasma antibody titer when compared to groups II and III. Also, a strong correlation was detected between FIV infection and positive serum reaction for Toxoplasma gondii. On the other hand, there was no difference in the magnitude of Toxoplasma antibody titer between positive and negative cats. Although cats that are seropositive to Toxoplasma rarely excrete oocysts in their feces, it is not well known how this immunity can influence oocysts shedding in cats infected with FIV. In consequence of the high frequency of antibody titer to Toxoplasma in FIV positive cats, these animals should always be submitted to antibody test to Toxoplasma. Foram avaliadas, pela técnica de imunofluorescência indireta, a freqüência e a magnitude dos títulos de anticorpos antitoxoplasma (Toxoplasma gondii, Nicolle; Manceaux, 1909), em gatos infectados naturalmente pelo vírus da imunodeficiência dos felinos (VIF). Utilizaram-se 115 amostras de soro sangüíneo de gatos negativos ao vírus da leucemia felina que foram divididas em 3 grupos. Os 22 animais do grupo I eram positivos ao VIF. Os 58 animais que compuseram o grupo II eram doentes porém negativos na pesquisa de anticorpos anti-VIF e os 35 felinos do grupo III eram hígidos e negativos ao VIF. Os resultados obtidos permitiram concluir que a freqüência de anticorpos antitoxoplasma foi maior no grupo I do que nos grupos II e III. A análise estatística mostrou forte associação entre a infecção pelo VIF e a presença de anticorpos antitoxoplasma. Não se observou diferença entre a magnitude dos títulos de anticorpos antitoxoplasma nos animais positivos e negativos ao VIF. Embora gatos que desenvolvam imunidade raramente eliminem oocistos, não se sabe exatamente como esta imunidade pode influenciar a eliminação de oocistos naqueles gatos infectados pelo VIF. Em face da alta freqüência de anticorpos antitoxoplasma observada nos animais positivos ao VIF, acredita-se que todos os gatos positivos a esse vírus devam ser avaliados quanto à presença de anticorpos antitoxoplasma.