Highly virulent Leptospira borgpetersenii strain characterized in the hamster model.

Abstract. A recent study by our group reported the isolation and partial serological and molecular characterization of four Leptospira borgpetersenii serogroup Ballum strains. Here, we reproduced experimental leptospirosis in golden Syrian hamsters (Mesocricetus auratus) and carried out standardization of lethal dose 50% (LD50) of one of these strains (4E).

Cattle intoxication from Enterolobium contortisiliquum pods.

Three outbreaks of hepatogenous photosensitization caused by pods of Enterolobium contortisiliquum are reported in cattle. Clinical signs were anorexia, depression, photosensitization and abortion. Most affected cattle recovered in 30-40 d.