Drastic reduction in the notification of acute cases of Chagas disease in the Northeast region of Brazil. Epidemiological evaluation in the period 2001-2021.

Chagas disease (CD), caused by the protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi (T. cruzi), is a neglected disease endemic to some Latin American countries, including Brazil. Soon after infection, individuals develop an acute phase, which in most cases is asymptomatic and may go undetected. However, when CD is detected early, notification in the Notifiable Diseases Information System (SINAN), is mandatory. This study aimed to evaluate the information registered in the SINAN database and to determine the epidemiological profile of acute CD in Northeast Brazil, an endemic region, from 2001 to 2021. According to this survey, 1,444 cases of acute CD were reported in the Northeastern region of Brazil during this period. During the first six years, referred to as period 1, 90.24% of the notifications were registered, while the number of notifications significantly decreased in the subsequent years, referred to as period 2. Most individuals diagnosed with acute CD were Afro-Brazilian adults. All known routes of infection by the parasite were reported. Vector-borne transmission was predominant during period 1 (73.29%) and oral transmission during period 2 (58.87%). All nine states in Northeast Brazil reported cases in both periods. A higher incidence of disease was reported in Rio Grande do Norte (RN) during period 1, and in Maranhão (MA) during period 2. Our results show that CD remains a significant public health challenge.

Effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection on health and functional capacity in institutionalized older adults.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the effect of SARS-CoV-2 infection on the health conditions and functional capacity of older adults living in long-term care units in Maceió City - Alagoas State. METHODS: A prospective cohort was conducted with institutionalized older adults of both sexes. Older adults were assessed for clinical conditions (diagnosis of chronic diseases and biochemical tests), functional capacity, and nutritional status. All assessments were repeated on two occasions, maintaining a 6-month interval between them. RESULTS: The sample was composed of 289 older adults. Of the total, 98 (33.9%) were positive for COVID-19 and eight died (2.8%). Men were more likely to have COVID-19 (OR = 3.50; p < 0.01). It was observed that the disease contributed to increasing the frequency of dependent older adults after six months (OR = 1.38; p-interaction < 0.01). It was also observed that after six months of positive diagnosis for COVID-19, there was greater weight loss (p < 0.01), reduced BMI (p < 0.01), increased mean SBP (p = 0.04), and DBP (p = 0.03). CONCLUSION: Effects of COVID-19 in institutionalized older adults go beyond acute complications and compromise blood pressure control, functional capacity, and favor weight loss.

Sarcopenia and risk of malnutrition as risk factors for complications from COVID-19 / Sarcopenia e risco de desnutrição como fatores de risco para complicações da COVID-19

Purpose: This study aimed to associate nutritional and sarcopenia risk with clinical outcomes in elderly patients with COVID-19. Methods: This is a longitudinal retrospective cohort study. Hospitalized elderly individuals diagnosed with COVID-19 were included in the study. Nutritional risk was assessed using the Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool (MUST), and Sarcopenia risk was assessed using the SARC-F. Associations were assessed through multivariable logistic models. Results: In total, 127 patients (mean age: 71.25 ±8.06 years) were followed up until the clinical outcome. Sarcopenia risk was diagnosed in 63.8% of the sample, whereas nutritional risk was observed in 72%. Hospitalization in the intensive care unit (ICU) was required in 48.8% of the sample, 38.6% required mechanical ventilation, and 32.3% died. Elderly individuals with sarcopenia risk were more likely to be hospitalized in ICUs (OR: 5.62; 95%CI: 2.2-14.3), require mechanical ventilation (OR: 4.0; 95% CI: 1.5-10.2), and die (OR: 5.06; 95% CI: 1.7-14.2). The risk of malnutrition assessed through MUST was an important risk factor for death (OR = 30.15; 95% CI: 3.6-245.8; p<0.01). Conclusion: Sarcopenia risk was a risk factor for death, hospitalization in ICU, and mechanical ventilation, while nutritional risk was a risk factor for death (AU).

Objetivo: Este estudo teve como objetivo associar o risco nutricional e de sarcopenia com desfechos clínicos em pacientes idosos com COVID-19. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo de coorte retrospectivo longitudinal. Idosos hospitalizados com diagnóstico de COVID-19 foram incluídos no estudo. O risco nutricional foi avaliado usando o Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool (MUST) e o risco de sarcopenia foi avaliado usando o SARC-F. As associações foram avaliadas por modelos logísticos multivariados. Resultados: No total, 127 pacientes (média de idade: 71,25 ±8,06 anos) foram acompanhados até o desfecho clínico. Risco de sarcopenia foi diagnosticado em 63,8% da amostra, enquanto risco nutricional foi observado em 72% deles. Além disso, 48,8% da amostra necessitou de internação em unidade de terapia intensiva (UTI), 38,6% necessitaram ventilação mecânica e 32,3% foram a óbito. Idosos com risco de sarcopenia tiveram maior chance de internação em UTI (OR: 5,62; IC 95%: 2,2-14,3), necessidade de ventilação mecânica (OR: 4,0; IC 95%: 1,5-10,2) e óbito (OR: 5,06; IC 95%: 1,7-14,2). O risco de desnutrição avaliado pelo MUST foi um importante fator de risco para óbito (OR = 30,15; IC 95%: 3,6-245,8; p<0,01). Conclusão: O risco de sarcopenia foi fator de risco para óbito, internação em UTI e ventilação mecânica, enquanto o risco nutricional foi fator de risco para óbito (AU).

Associação entre risco de sarcopenia e complicações clínicas da covid-19 em pessoas idosas hospitalizadas: estudo de coorte multicêntrico / Association between the risk of sarcopenia and clinical complications of covid-19 in hospitalized older adults: a multicenter cohort study

Resumo Objetivo Verificar se o risco de sarcopenia em pessoas idosas diagnosticadas com covid-19 associa-se com demanda por cuidados intensivos, ventilação mecânica e óbito. Método Estudo multicêntrico do tipo coorte, que incluiu pessoas idosas (≥65 anos) com diagnóstico laboratorial confirmado de covid-19. Foram coletados dados relacionados às características sociodemográficas, clínicas e nutricionais. O risco de sarcopenia foi avaliado pelo questionário Sarcopenia Risk Screening. As variáveis de desfecho foram: necessidade de terapia intensiva, ventilação mecânica e óbito. Foram realizadas regressões logísticas para verificar a associação dos desfechos clínicos e o risco de sarcopenia, com as seguintes variáveis de ajuste: idade, sexo, renda familiar, atividade física, hipertensão, diabetes, doença cardiovascular doença pulmonar obstrutiva crônica e índice de massa corporal. Resultados Foram incluídas no estudo 264 pessoas idosas com covid-19, com média de idade de 71,7 (±8,2) anos. Cento e quarenta e oito pessoas idosas (56,1%) tinham risco de sarcopenia. Hipertensão, diabetes e doença cardiovascular foram as principais comorbidades identificadas nas pessoas idosas, respectivamente, 75,4%, 45,5% e 28,4%. O risco de sarcopenia nas pessoas idosas hospitalizadas com covid-19 aumentou em mais de 2 vezes as chances de internamento na UTI (OR: 2,71 [1,57;4,68], p<0,001), em cerca de 5 vezes as chances de ventilação mecânica (OR: 5,19 [2,75;9,78], p<0,001) e em mais de 3 vezes as chances de óbito (OR: 4,05 [2,05;7,98], p<0,001). Conclusão Em pessoas idosas hospitalizadas com covid-19, a pré-existência do risco de sarcopenia foi preditor de desfechos clínicos desfavoráveis.

Abstract Objective To investigate whether the risk of sarcopenia in older adults diagnosed with covid-19 is associated with the need for intensive care, mechanical ventilation, and mortality. Method A multicenter cohort study was conducted, including older adults (≥65 years) with laboratory-confirmed covid-19 diagnosis. Data related to sociodemographic, clinical, and nutritional characteristics were collected. The risk of sarcopenia was assessed using the Sarcopenia Risk Screening questionnaire. Outcome variables included the need for intensive care, mechanical ventilation, and mortality. Logistic regressions were performed to assess the association between clinical outcomes and the risk of sarcopenia, adjusting for the following variables: age, gender, family income, physical activity, hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and body mass index. Results The study included 264 older adults with covid-19, with an average age of 71.7 (±8.2) years. One hundred and forty-eight older adults (56.1%) were at risk of sarcopenia. Hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease were the most common comorbidities identified in older adults, at 75.4%, 45.5%, and 28.4%, respectively. The presence of sarcopenia risk in hospitalized older adults with covid-19 increased the odds of ICU admission by more than 2-fold (OR: 2.71 [1.57; 4.68], p<0.001), nearly 5-fold for mechanical ventilation (OR: 5.19 [2.75; 9.78], p<0.001), and over 3-fold for mortality (OR: 4.05 [2.05; 7.98], p<0.001). Conclusion In hospitalized older adults with covid-19, pre-existing risk of sarcopenia was a predictor of unfavorable clinical outcomes.

Effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection on health and functional capacity in institutionalized older adults / Efectos de la infección por SARS-CoV-2 en la salud y capacidad funcional de personas mayores institucionalizadas / Efeitos da infecção por SARS-CoV-2 na saúde e na capacidade funcional de pessoas idosas institucionalizadas

ABSTRACT Objective: To assess the effect of SARS-CoV-2 infection on the health conditions and functional capacity of older adults living in long-term care units in Maceió City - Alagoas State. Methods: A prospective cohort was conducted with institutionalized older adults of both sexes. Older adults were assessed for clinical conditions (diagnosis of chronic diseases and biochemical tests), functional capacity, and nutritional status. All assessments were repeated on two occasions, maintaining a 6-month interval between them. Results: The sample was composed of 289 older adults. Of the total, 98 (33.9%) were positive for COVID-19 and eight died (2.8%). Men were more likely to have COVID-19 (OR = 3.50; p < 0.01). It was observed that the disease contributed to increasing the frequency of dependent older adults after six months (OR = 1.38; p-interaction < 0.01). It was also observed that after six months of positive diagnosis for COVID-19, there was greater weight loss (p < 0.01), reduced BMI (p < 0.01), increased mean SBP (p = 0.04), and DBP (p = 0.03). Conclusion: Effects of COVID-19 in institutionalized older adults go beyond acute complications and compromise blood pressure control, functional capacity, and favor weight loss.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Evaluar el efecto de la infección por SARS-CoV-2 sobre las condiciones de salud y la capacidad funcional de personas mayores que viven en unidades de cuidados a largo plazo en la ciudad de Maceió - Alagoas. Métodos: Se realizó una cohorte prospectiva con ancianos institucionalizados de ambos sexos. Los ancianos fueron evaluados en cuanto a condiciones clínicas (diagnóstico de enfermedades crónicas y pruebas bioquímicas), capacidad funcional y estado nutricional. Todas las evaluaciones se repitieron en dos ocasiones, manteniendo un intervalo de 6 meses entre ellas. Resultados: La muestra estuvo compuesta por 289 personas mayores. Del total, 98 (33,9%) dieron positivo a la COVID-19 y ocho fallecieron (2,8%). Los hombres tenían más probabilidades de tener COVID-19 (OR = 3,50; p <0,01). Se observó que la enfermedad contribuyó al aumento de la frecuencia de ancianos dependientes después de seis meses (OR = 1,38; interacción p < 0,01). Se observó que la enfermedad contribuyó al aumento de la frecuencia de ancianos dependientes después de seis meses (OR = 1,38; interacción p < 0,01). También se observó que después de seis meses de diagnóstico positivo para COVID-19, hubo mayor pérdida de peso (p < 0,01), reducción del IMC (p < 0,01), aumento de la PAS media (p = 0,04) y la PAD (p = 0,03). Conclusión: Los efectos del COVID-19 en ancianos institucionalizados van más allá de las complicaciones agudas y comprometen el control de la presión arterial, la capacidad funcional, favoreciendo la pérdida de peso.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar o efeito da infecção pelo SARS-CoV-2 nas condições de saúde e capacidade funcional de idosos residentes em unidades de longa permanência na cidade de Maceió - Alagoas. Métodos: Foi realizada uma coorte prospectiva com idosos institucionalizados de ambos os sexos. Os idosos foram avaliados quanto às condições clínicas (diagnóstico de doenças crônicas e exames bioquímicos), capacidade funcional e estado nutricional. Todas as avaliações foram repetidas em duas ocasiões, mantendo um intervalo de 6 meses entre elas. Resultados: A amostra foi composta por 289 idosos. Do total, 98 (33,9%) deram positivo para COVID-19 e oito faleceram (2,8%). Os homens tiveram maior probabilidade de ter COVID-19 (OR = 3,50; p < 0,01). Observou-se que a doença contribuiu para o aumento da frequência de idosos dependentes após seis meses (OR = 1,38; interação de p <0,01). Observou-se também que após seis meses de diagnóstico positivo para COVID-19, houve maior perda de peso (p < 0,01), redução do IMC (p < 0,01), aumento da média da PAS (p = 0,04) e da PAD (p = 0,03). Conclusão: Os efeitos da COVID-19 em idosos institucionalizados vão além das complicações agudas e comprometem o controle da pressão arterial, a capacidade funcional, favorecendo a perda de peso.

Toxoplasma gondii infection in goats: serological, pathological, and clinical monitoring during gestation.

This study aimed to evaluate Toxoplasma gondii infection in pregnant goats. The goats were divided into two groups: group one (G1) comprised of 31 pregnant goats naturally infected with T. gondii, and group two (G2) comprised of seven uninfected pregnant goats from a flock with a history of abortion due to toxoplasmosis. Serological investigation, ultrasonography, and clinical testing were performed on all goats during gestation. Serum samples from goats and their offspring (precolostral) were collected to evaluate the vertical transmission of T. gondii. Samples from placentas and aborted fetuses were also collected for molecular and histopathological analysis. Results showed that in G1, estrus recurrence occurred in 22.6% (7/31) of the goats, embryonic death in 3.3% (1/31), and abortion in 19.4% (6/31). An increase in anti-T. gondii antibodies was observed in G1 goats at day 150 of pregnancy. T. gondii DNA was detected in 42.8% (3/7) of aborted fetuses and was associated with histopathological lesions caused by this parasite. Moreover, toxoplasmosis in field conditions caused by genotype ToxoDB #1 in pregnant goats resulted in severe reproductive loss in the flock.

Cross-sectional survey for Toxoplasma gondii infection in humans in Fernando de Noronha island, Brazil.

Toxoplasmosis, caused by the protozoan Toxoplasma gondii, is zoonotic disease and is one of the most important foodborne parasitic diseases globally. The prevalence in humans is highly variable, being influenced by cultural habits, socioeconomic, and environmental conditions. The objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence of T. gondii infection in humans on the archipelago of Fernando de Noronha, Pernambuco State, Brazil, and to identify the risk factors associated with this infection. The seroprevalence of immunoglobulin G anti-T. gondii antibodies was 50.4% (172/341, 95% CI: 45.2%-55.7%). Factors associated with the infection were consumption of well water or rainwater (odds ratio [OR]: 2.43, p=0.020) and consumption of game meat (OR: 1.80, p=0.026). This is the first study to provide epidemiological information of T. gondii infection among the residents of the Island of Fernando de Noronha, revealing a considerable antibody seroprevalence in this population. This study provides information for the adoption of prevention and control measures in island environments.

Seroprevalence, spatial distribution and risk factors associated with Toxoplasma gondii infection among cattle in a quilombola community in the Brazilian cerrado.

Little is known about Toxoplasma gondii infection among cattle living in the Cerrado (Brazilian savanna) biome in Brazil. In particular, there is no epidemiological data relating to infection in quilombo lands, i.e. areas settled by Afro-descendants of escaped slaves. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence, spatial distribution and risk factors associated with T. gondii infection among cattle in the Kalunga quilombo, in the Cerrado biome. Blood samples were collected from 1533 cattle for antibody detection using the indirect fluorescence antibody test (IFAT). The study area was subdivided into five macroregions to determine the spatial distribution of infection. An objective questionnaire was applied to the cattle owners to evaluate risk factors, which were analyzed using univariate analysis and logistic regression. The prevalence of T. gondii infection among cattle was 8.93% (137/1533), and antibodies were found in 49.6% of the herds (66/133), in all macroregions. The risk factors associated with T. gondii infection in cattle were the following: number of animals in the herd (OR: 30.56), purchase of cattle (OR: 2.57), age group (OR: 1.95) and average annual temperature (OR: 1.77). Thus, the occurrence rate, spatial distribution and risk factors associated with T. gondii infection among cattle in the Kalunga quilombola community are documented here, for the first time.

Neospora caninum infection in cattle in the state of Amazonas, Brazil: seroprevalence, spatial distribution and risk factors.

Livestock in the Amazon has grown significantly and, although neosporosis in cattle has been reported worldwide, there is no information about N. caninum in production systems in the state of Amazonas. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of anti-Neospora caninum antibodies in cattle, their spatial distribution and the risk factors associated with N. caninum infection in the state of Amazonas. Questionnaires were applied to farmers to assess risk factors associated with N. caninum infection. Blood samples were collected from 1,073 animals on 47 farms in 33 municipalities in the four Amazonian subpopulations. IgG anti-N.caninum antibodies were detected by the indirect fluorescence test, with a general prevalence of 30.2%, being seropositive in 43 farms (91.5%), with prevalence ranging from 2.2% to 69.2%. The highest number of high density points was found in subpopulation 3 (municipality of Apuí and other municipalities on the Madeira River and affluent). It was concluded that N. caninum is present with high seroprevalence values, when compared to other cattle producing states in the Amazon region of Brazil. The identified factors can be used as risk indicators so that control measures can be implemented to prevent infection by N. caninum in these herds.

Neospora caninum infection in cattle in the state of Amazonas, Brazil: seroprevalence, spatial distribution and risk factors / Infecção por Neospora caninum em bovinos no estado do Amazonas, Brasil: soroprevalência, distribuição espacial e fatores de risco

Abstract Livestock in the Amazon has grown significantly and, although neosporosis in cattle has been reported worldwide, there is no information about N. caninum in production systems in the state of Amazonas. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of anti-Neospora caninum antibodies in cattle, their spatial distribution and the risk factors associated with N. caninum infection in the state of Amazonas. Questionnaires were applied to farmers to assess risk factors associated with N. caninum infection. Blood samples were collected from 1,073 animals on 47 farms in 33 municipalities in the four Amazonian subpopulations. IgG anti-N.caninum antibodies were detected by the indirect fluorescence test, with a general prevalence of 30.2%, being seropositive in 43 farms (91.5%), with prevalence ranging from 2.2% to 69.2%. The highest number of high density points was found in subpopulation 3 (municipality of Apuí and other municipalities on the Madeira River and affluent). It was concluded that N. caninum is present with high seroprevalence values, when compared to other cattle producing states in the Amazon region of Brazil. The identified factors can be used as risk indicators so that control measures can be implemented to prevent infection by N. caninum in these herds.

Resumo A pecuária na Amazônia tem crescido significativamente e, embora a neosporose em bovinos tenha sido relatada em todo o mundo, não há informações sobre N. caninum nos sistemas de produção no estado do Amazonas. Objetivou-se determinar a prevalência de anticorpos anti-Neospora caninum em bovinos, sua distribuição espacial e os fatores de risco associados à infecção por N. caninum no estado do Amazonas. Questionários foram aplicados aos fazendeiros, para avaliar fatores de risco associados à infecção por N. caninum. Amostras de sangue foram coletadas de 1.073 animais em 47 fazendas, em 33 municípios das quatro subpopulações amazonenses. Anticorpos IgG anti-N.caninum foram detectados pelo teste de imunofluorescência indireta, com prevalência geral de 30,2%, com soropositividade em 43 fazendas (91,5%), com prevalência variando de 2,2% a 69,2%. O maior número de pontos de alta densidade foi encontrado na subpopulação 3 (município de Apuí e demais municípios do rio Madeira e afluentes). Concluiu-se que N. caninum está presente com altos valores de soroprevalência, quando comparado a outros estados produtores de gado na região amazônica do Brasil. Os fatores identificados podem ser usados como indicadores de risco, para que medidas de controle possam ser implementadas para prevenir a infecção por N. caninum nesses rebanhos.

Description of an atypical Toxoplasma gondii isolate from a case of congenital toxoplasmosis in northeastern Brazil.

We report a case of severe congenital toxoplasmosis that involved an atypical T. gondii genotype in a newborn baby from Alagoas state in Northeastern Brazil. A pregnant woman presented IgM and IgG anti-T. gondii antibodies, as detected by the chemiluminescence immunoassay on the second trimester of pregnancy. A mouse bioassay was performed using umbilical cord blood and one isolate was obtained. The isolate was designated TgCTBrAL1 and genetic characterization revealed genotype ToxoDB #162. Genotype results of the rhoptry genes, ROP5 and ROP18, could predict the high virulence of the isolate in mice, which was confirmed by an in vivo virulence assay. This is the first report of generating a T. gondii isolate from a newborn baby with congenital toxoplasmosis in Northeastern Brazil.

Serological evidence of Leptospira sp. in humans from Fernando de Noronha Island, Brazil.

The prevalence of leptospirosis in humans is highly variable, being influenced by climatic factors, the presence of reservoirs, occupational exposure, recreational activity, and socioeconomic conditions. The objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence of Leptospira sp. and identify the predominant human serovars on the island of Fernando de Noronha, Brazil, based on a microscopic agglutination test. The prevalence of anti-Leptospira antibodies was 1.17% (4/341; I.C. 0.46%-2.98%), with the predominance of serovars Icterohaemorrhagiae, Javanica, Mini and Louisiana. This is the first study on the occurrence of antibodies against Leptospira sp. in humans in Fernando de Noronha and highlights the need to implement control and prevention strategies in this island environment.

Serological survey and risk factors for Toxoplasma gondii infection in cattle from Amazonas, Brazil.

Beef cattle farming in the Amazon region has expanded rapidly, but information on herd health is still scanty. The purpose of this study was to determine the presence of anti-Toxoplasma gondii antibodies in cattle, its spatial distribution and the risk factors associated with the infection in the state of Amazonas, Brazil. Blood samples were collected from 1073 animals on 47 farms, located in 33 municipalities in the four state subpopulations. Anti-T. gondii IgG antibodies were detected by means of the indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT). The overall prevalence was 30.9 % (332/1073), and seropositive animals were identified at 93.6 % farms (44/47). All the subpopulations studied in the state of Amazonas had cattle herds seropositive for T. gondii, with some areas showing higher prevalence rates. The risk factors identified in the logistic regression were number of animals (OR = 4.43) and presence of domestic cats (OR = 1.98). It is advisable to correct identified risk factors, particularly insofar as the definitive hosts of T. gondii are concerned. Attention should also focus on beef consumption, given the prevalence of T. gondii infection among cattle and the widespread clandestine slaughtering that occurs in this state.

Inter- and intra-genotype differences in induced cystogenesis of recombinant strains of Toxoplasma gondii isolated from chicken and pigs.

The ability to differentiate from the proliferative (tachyzoite) to the latent (bradyzoite) stage of isolates of Toxoplasma gondii recombinant genotypes (I/II/III and I/III) and reference strains from a clonal line (RH and ME49) was investigated in this study. Two isolates from chicken (#114 and #277; ToxoDB) and 3 from pigs (#114; ToxoDB) were the subjects for evaluation. The isolates were grown in cell culture under 2 different conditions: culture medium at pH 7.0 (neutral, without stress induction) or pH 8.0 (alkaline, stress inducing). After 4 days, the cultures were fixed and the events resulting from infection and induction were labeled. T. gondii cysts were labeled using Dolichos biflorus-FITC lectin (DBL-cysts) and free tachyzoites or vacuolar were labeled using an anti-T. gondii polyclonal antibody followed by an Alexa 594-conjugated secondary antibody (DBL-negative structures compatible with parasite structures - lysis plaques or vacuole). Differences in DBL-cysts formation in vitro in response to exogenous stress were observed between recombinant genotype isolates and the typical genotypes. The differences in conversion rates and the patterns of lysis plate production between genotype I/III isolates (#114) indicate that care should be taken when extrapolating the in vitro phenotypic characteristics of parasites from the same genotype.

Toxoplasma gondii in invasive animals on the Island of Fernando de Noronha in Brazil: Molecular characterization and mouse virulence studies of new genotypes.

This study aimed to genetically characterize and to determine virulence from Toxoplasma gondii samples from invasive animals in the Island of Fernando de Noronha, Brazil. Blood samples were collected from 21 tegu-lizard (Salvator merianae), 12 rock-cavies (Kerodon rupestris) and 154 black-rats (Rattus rattus) from the Island and MAT (cutoff 1:25) detected anti-T. gondii antibodies in 0% of the tegus (0/21); 58.3% of the rock-cavies (7/12) and 22.7% of rats (35/154). Tissue samples (brain, heart, liver and lung) from positive animals in MAT were collected for molecular analysis and for bioassay in Swiss Webster mice. After observation period, mice were euthanized, and serological detection and tissue cyst search in the brain were performed. The brain of positive animals for serological detection or tissue cyst search was cultured in MARC-145 cells for maintenance of the T. gondii isolate. No isolate was obtained from rock cavies. Nine isolates were obtained by bioassay of 35 seropositive black rats. DNA samples were extracted from rat tissues and from parasite isolates in cell culture, and genotyped using 10 PCR-RFLP markers. ToxoDB genotypes #78 (1) from rat tissue and #146 (4), #163 (2), #260 (2) and #291 (1) from cell culture were detected. Markers of genes ROP18 and ROP5 were analyzed and in vivo virulence test was conducted in mice. Analysis revealed two allele combinations, 3/1 and 3/3, indicating non-lethal T. gondii strains, which is supported by mouse virulence test.

Low prevalence of infection by Sarcocystis neurona in horses from the State of Alagoas, Brazil.

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of infection by Sarcocystis neurona in horses and identify potential risk factors. Were analyzed 427 samples from 36 farms in 21 municipalities in the Alagoas State, Brazil. Presence of anti-S. neurona antibodies was diagnosed by indirect immunofluorescence antibody test (IFAT) and was confirmed using the immunoblot test. Risk factors were assessed through investigative questionnaires on animal management on the farms. The prevalence of anti-S.neurona antibodies was 2.8% (confidence interval, CI: 1.5-4.9%) from IFAT and 1.6% (CI:0.8-3.34%) from immunoblot, and there were positive horses on 16.6% of the studied farms. None of the variables studied presented associations with serological status for S. neurona. This is the first report on infection by S. neurona in horses reared in Alagoas, Brazil showing a low exposure to S. neurona in this region, but with significant numbers of foci.

Low prevalence of infection by Sarcocystis neurona in horses from the State of Alagoas, Brazil / Baixa prevalência da infecção por Sarcocystis neurona em cavalos do estado de Alagoas, Brasil

Abstract The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of infection by Sarcocystis neurona in horses and identify potential risk factors. Were analyzed 427 samples from 36 farms in 21 municipalities in the Alagoas State, Brazil. Presence of anti-S. neurona antibodies was diagnosed by indirect immunofluorescence antibody test (IFAT) and was confirmed using the immunoblot test. Risk factors were assessed through investigative questionnaires on animal management on the farms. The prevalence of anti-S.neurona antibodies was 2.8% (confidence interval, CI: 1.5-4.9%) from IFAT and 1.6% (CI:0.8-3.34%) from immunoblot, and there were positive horses on 16.6% of the studied farms. None of the variables studied presented associations with serological status for S. neurona. This is the first report on infection by S. neurona in horses reared in Alagoas, Brazil showing a low exposure to S. neurona in this region, but with significant numbers of foci.

Resumo Objetivou-se neste estudo determinar a prevalência e os fatores de risco associados à infecção por Sarcocystis neurona em equinos. Foram analisadas 427 amostras de 36 propriedades localizadas em 21 municípios do estado de Alagoas. O diagnóstico de anticorpos anti-S. neurona foi realizado pela técnica de Imunofluorescência Indireta (IFI) e confirmada por immunoblot. O estudo dos fatores de risco foi realizado a partir de questionários investigativos sobre o manejo dos animais nas propriedades. A prevalência de anticorpos anti-S. neurona foi de 2,8% (I.C. 1,5-4,9%) na IFI e de 1,6% (I.C. 0,8-3,34%) no immunoblot com equinos positivos em 16,6% das propriedades estudadas. Nenhuma variável estudada apresentou associação com o status sorológico para S. neurona. Este é o primeiro relato da infecção por S. neurona em equinos criados no Estado de Alagoas, Brasil, confirmando que os animais desta região têm baixa exposição a S. neurona, mas com significativo número de focos.

Serological response to Neospora caninum infection in goats and agreement between three diagnostic techniques to detect caprine neosporosis / Resposta sorológica à infecção por Neospora caninum em cabras e concordância entre três técnicas diagnósticas para detecção de neosporose caprina

The present study aimed to measure the serological response of goats infected with Neospora caninum by assessing the diagnostic performance and agreement between three techniques (indirect immunofluorescent antibody test, IFAT; Neospora agglutitation test, NAT; enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, ELISA). The panel of sera were comprised of 500 samples of goats, and 60 reference serum samples. These reference and field serum samples were tested by ELISA, NAT, and IFAT. In the field serum samples tested, the seroprevalences of anti-N. caninum antibodies were 3.2%, 4.6%, and 6.4% in the NAT, IFAT and ELISA, respectively. Using the IFAT as the gold standard, the NAT and the ELISA agreement was considered weak (k=0.28) and strong (k=0.75), respectively. When the IFAT performance was used for comparison purposes, the ELISA showed 91.3% sensitivity and 97.7%, specificity with a PPV of 65.2% and a NPV of 99.6%; The NAT presented sensitivity of 26.1% and specificity of 97.9% with a PPV of 37.5% and a NPV of 96.5%. Accordingly, the IFAT should remain the assay of choice for studies about N. caninum infection in goats in individual serum samples. A combination of serological assays with high sensitivity and specificity is recommended in serosurveys of caprine neosporosis.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar a resposta sorológica de caprinos infectados com Neospora caninum mediante o estudo da performance e concordância de três técnicas sorológicas (RIFI, NAT e ELISA). O painel de soros testes foi composto por 500 amostras de caprinos e ainda 60 soros classificados como de referência. Todos os soros de referência e de campo foram testados por ELISA, NAT e RIFI. Nos soros de campo, as soroprevalências de anticorpos anti-N. caninum foram de 3,2% no NAT, 4,6% na RIFI e 6,4% no ELISA. Utilizando a RIFI como técnica de referência, a concordância de NAT e ELISA foi considerada fraca (k=0,28) e substancial (k=0,75), respectivamente. Ainda utilizando a RIFI como comparação, foram obtidos valores de sensibilidade de 91,3% e 97,7% de especificidade no ELISA, e valores preditivos positivo de 65,2% e negativo de 99,6%; NAT apresentou resultados de sensibilidade de 26,1% e de especificidade de 97,9% com valores preditivos positivo de 37,5% e negativo de 96,5%. Com base nos resultados deste trabalho, sugerimos que a RIFI permaneça como técnica de escolha no estudo da neosporose caprina em amostras individuais, resguardando as recomendações e pontos de corte adotados neste estudo. Indicamos a associação de técnicas sorológicas de alta sensibilidade e especificidade.(AU)

Occurrence of anti-Neospora caninum antibodies in cattle in the dairy farming region of the state of Piauí, Brazil / Ocorrência de anticorpos anti- Neospora caninum em vacas na bacia leiteira do estado do Piauí, Brasil

Abstract This study focused on the detection of anti-Neospora caninum IgG antibodies in cows in the dairy farming region of the state of Piauí, Brazil. To this end, serum samples were collected from 255 dairy cows on 17 farms located in the dairy farming region of the municipality of Parnaíba, Piauí, Brazil. The indirect fluorescence antibody test (IFAT) was employed to detect anti-N. caninum IgG antibodies, using anti-bovine IgG (Sigma®) conjugated to fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) and a cutoff point of 1:200. Of the 255 samples analyzed, 69 (27.06%) were positive for anti- N. caninum IgG antibodies, the relative frequency found by property was: 1 (20.00%), 2 (53.33%), 3 (46.66%), 4 (53.33%), 5 (26.66%), 6 (6.66%), 7 (6.66%), 8 (20.00%), 9 (26.66%), 10 (26.66%), 11 (20.00%), 12 (20.00%), 13 (46.66%), 14 (26.66%), 15 (26.66%), 16 (20.00%) and 17 (13.33%). with titers of 200 (15.94%), 400 (20.30%), 800 (24.63%), 1600 (23.18%) and 3200 (15.94%), being the highest frequency for the titer of 800. This study demonstrates for the first time that cows from dairy herds of Parnaíba municipality, state of Piauí, are exposed to N. caninum.

Resumo Objetivou-se estudar a ocorrência de anticorpos IgG anti- Neospora caninum em vacas, na bacia leiteira do estado do Piauí, Brasil. Foram obtidas amostras séricas de 255 vacas leiteiras provenientes de 17 propriedades localizadas na bacia leiteira do município de Parnaíba, Piauí, Brasil. Para a pesquisa de anticorpos IgG anti- N. caninum foi empregada a técnica de Reação de Imunofluorescência Indireta, utilizando-se conjugado anti-IgG bovine (Sigma®) conjugado ao isotiocianato de fluoresceína e ponto de corte 1:200. Das 255 amostras analisadas, 69 (27,06%) foram positivas para anticorpos IgG anti- N. caninum, a frequência relativa encontrada por propriedade foi de: 1 (20,00%), 2 (53,33%), 3 (46,66%), 4 (53,33%), 5 (26,66%), 6 (6,66%), 7 (6,66%), 8 (20,00%), 9 (26,66%) 10 (26,66%), 11 (20,00%), 12 (20,00%), 13 (46,66%), 14 (26,66%), 15 (26,66%), 16 (20,00%) e 17 (13,33%) com títulos de 200 (15,94%), 400 (20,30%), 800 (24,63%), 1600 (23,18%) e 3200 (15,94%), sendo a maior frequência para o título de 800. Este estudo demonstra pela primeira vez que, vacas de rebanhos leiteiros do município de Parnaíba, estado do Piauí, estão expostas ao N. caninum.

Occurrence of anti-Neospora caninum antibodies in cattle in the dairy farming region of the state of Piauí, Brazil.

This study focused on the detection of anti-Neospora caninum IgG antibodies in cows in the dairy farming region of the state of Piauí, Brazil. To this end, serum samples were collected from 255 dairy cows on 17 farms located in the dairy farming region of the municipality of Parnaíba, Piauí, Brazil. The indirect fluorescence antibody test (IFAT) was employed to detect anti-N. caninum IgG antibodies, using anti-bovine IgG (Sigma®) conjugated to fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) and a cutoff point of 1:200. Of the 255 samples analyzed, 69 (27.06%) were positive for anti- N. caninum IgG antibodies, the relative frequency found by property was: 1 (20.00%), 2 (53.33%), 3 (46.66%), 4 (53.33%), 5 (26.66%), 6 (6.66%), 7 (6.66%), 8 (20.00%), 9 (26.66%), 10 (26.66%), 11 (20.00%), 12 (20.00%), 13 (46.66%), 14 (26.66%), 15 (26.66%), 16 (20.00%) and 17 (13.33%). with titers of 200 (15.94%), 400 (20.30%), 800 (24.63%), 1600 (23.18%) and 3200 (15.94%), being the highest frequency for the titer of 800. This study demonstrates for the first time that cows from dairy herds of Parnaíba municipality, state of Piauí, are exposed to N. caninum.