Socio-environmental and parasitological aspects of waste pickers in Minas Gerais, Brazil

The increase in the generation of Solid Urban Waste causes social, environmental problems and damages to the population's health. Professionals who work in the collection of recyclable waste are exposed to risks of contamination either by toxic elements or pathogenic organisms. The objective of the work was to estimate the types and prevalence of intestinal parasites inwaste pickers. A field research was carried out from December 2017 to April 2018 with the voluntary participation of 26 waste pickers belonging to three associations in the municipality of Conselheiro Lafaiete, Minas Gerais, Brazil (CAAE: nº 79937817.7.0000.8122). In addition to the application a socio-environmental questionnaire, each volunteer provided a stool sample for laboratory testing the parasitological examination. Of the 26 survey participants, four (15.4%) had a positive result and were infected by the parasites Giardia lamblia, Entamoebacoliand Iodamoeba butschlii. Among the main factors that can contribute to the infection these waste pickersare the ingestion of untreated water for consumption in addition to reduced access to Personal Protective Equipment(PPE) during waste management. One way to control the presence of parasites would be through health and environmental education actions, periodic parasitological examinations and permanent use of PPE.

Identificación molecular y diversidad genética de las especies de nematodos Globodera rostochiensis y G. pallida en regiones productoras de papa de Guatemala / Molecular identification and genetic diversity of the species of nematodesGlobodera rostochiensisandG. pallidain potato growing regions of Guatemala

En Guatemala, la producción del cultivo de papa se ve afectada por los nematodos Globodera rostochiensis y Globo-dera pallida. La capacidad de ambas especies para formar quistes complica su control y provoca el aumento de sus poblaciones. En Guatemala se reporta la presencia de ambas especies de nematodos por identificación morfológica, sin embargo, no se ha realizado una confirmación molecular. Este es el primer estudio para validar la presencia de ambas especies de nematodos por PCR múltiple y la determinación de la diversidad y estructura genética de las poblaciones utilizando marcadores moleculares. Se realizaron muestreos en cuatro departamentos productores de papa del país. La identificación por PCR se realizó con el cebador común ITS5 y los cebadores PITSr3 específico para G. rostochiensisy PITSp4 para G. pallida. La caracterización molecular se realizó con el marcador AFLP. Se confirmó la presencia de las dos especies de nematodos en los cuatro departamentos. Los índices de diversidad Shannon y heterocigosidad esperada revelaron mayor diversidad genética en G. rostochiensis (H = 0.311, He = 0.301) que en G. pallida (H = 0.035, He = 0.223). Los métodos NJ, DAPC y PCA exhibieron una débil estructura entre las poblaciones de ambas especies de nematodos. Los resultados sugieren un patrón de dispersión desde Quetzaltenango hacia el resto del país, atribuido a la comercialización de semilla contaminada con nematodos. Se sugiere promover programas de socialización sobre los beneficios del uso de semilla certificada, además de constantes monitoreos moleculares para un diagnóstico certero de ambas especies de nematodos.

In Guatemala, potato crop production is affected by the nematodes Globodera rostochiensis and Globodera pallida. The ability of both species to form cysts complicates their control and causes an increase in their populations. In Guatemala, both species of nematodes have been reported by morphological identification; however, molecular confirmation has not been carried out. It is the first study to validate the presence of both nematode species by multiplex PCR and determine the diversity and genetic structure of the populations using molecular markers. Sampling was carried out in four pota-to-producing departments of the country. PCR identification was performed with the common primer ITS5 and the primers PITSr3 specific for G. rostochiensis and PITSp4 for G. pallida. We performed molecular characterization with the AFLP marker. We confirmed the presence of the two nematode species in the four departments. Shannon diversity and expected heterozygosity indices revealed higher genetic diversity in G. rostochiensis (H = 0.311, He = 0.301) than in G. pallida (H = 0.035, He = 0.223). The NJ, DAPC, and PCA methods exhibited weak structure among populations of both nematode species. The results suggest a dispersal pattern from Quetzaltenango to the rest of the country, attributed to the commer-cialization of seed contaminated with nematodes. We suggest promoting socialization programs on the benefits of using certified seeds and constant molecular monitoring for an accurate diagnosis of both species of nematodes.

Revisiting the Role of Hyperparasitism in the Evolution of Virulence.

AbstractHyperparasitism denotes the natural phenomenon where a parasite infecting a host is in turn infected by its own parasite. Hyperparasites can shape the dynamics of host-parasite interactions and often have a deleterious impact on pathogens, an important class of parasites, causing a reduction in their virulence and transmission rate. Hyperparasitism thus could be an important tool of biological control. However, host-parasite-hyperparasite systems have so far been outside the mainstream of modeling studies, especially those dealing with eco-evolutionary aspects of species interactions. Here, we theoretically explore the evolution of life-history traits in a generic host-parasite-hyperparasite system, focusing on parasite virulence and the positive impact that hyperparasitism has on the host population. We also explore the coevolution of life-history traits of the parasite and hyperparasite, using adaptive dynamics and quantitative genetics frameworks to identify evolutionarily singular strategies. We find that in the presence of hyperparasites, the evolutionarily optimal pathogen virulence generally shifts toward more virulent strains. However, even in this case the use of hyperparasites in biocontrol could be justified, since overall host mortality decreases. An intriguing possible outcome of the evolution of the hyperparasite can be its evolutionary suicide.

Genomic selection for heterobothriosis resistance concurrent with body size in the tiger pufferfish, Takifugu rubripes.

Parasite resistance traits in aquaculture species often have moderate heritability, indicating the potential for genetic improvements by selective breeding. However, parasite resistance is often synonymous with an undesirable negative correlation with body size. In this study, we first tested the feasibility of genomic selection (GS) on resistance to heterobothriosis, caused by the monogenean parasite Heterobothrium okamotoi, which leads to huge economic losses in aquaculture of the tiger pufferfish Takifugu rubripes. Then, using a simulation study, we tested the possibility of simultaneous improvement of parasite resistance, assessed by parasite counts on host fish (HC), and standard length (SL). Each trait showed moderate heritability (square-root transformed HC: h2 = 0.308 ± 0.123, S.E.; SL: h2 = 0.405 ± 0.131). The predictive abilities of genomic prediction among 12 models, including genomic Best Linear Unbiased Predictor (GBLUP), Bayesian regressions, and machine learning procedures, were also moderate for both transformed HC (0.248‒0.344) and SL (0.340‒0.481). These results confirmed the feasibility of GS for this trait. Although an undesirable genetic correlation was suggested between transformed HC and SL (rg = 0.228), the simulation study suggested the desired gains index can help achieve simultaneous genetic improvements in both traits.

Comparación de tres métodos de concentración de enteroparásitos en muestras fecales humanas / Comparison between three enteroparasite concentration methods in human stool samples

Objetivo. Comparar tres métodos de concentración de enteroparásitos en muestras fecales humanas. Métodos. Se diseñó un estudio transversal en el que se evaluaron 154 muestras fecales categorizadas en dos grupos: parasitados (n= 127) y no parasitados (n= 27). Las muestras fueron sometidas a tres métodos: parasitológico directo, sedimentación simple y Ritchie modificado, y a la observación microscópica en lugol y suero fisiológico a un aumento de 40X. Resultados. Se observó mayor frecuencia en la presencia de estructuras parasitarias por el método de Ritchie modificado (37 por ciento), seguido de la sedimentación simple (14,8 por ciento) en el grupo de no parasitados; mientras que en el grupo de parasitados, se observó mayor carga parasitaria obtenida por el método de Ritchie (3+ (15,8 por ciento) y 2+ (23,6 por ciento), que en la sedimentación simple (3+ (10,2 por ciento) y 2+ (22,8 por ciento). Las especies parasitarias con mayor frecuencia fueron Entamoeba coli (20,3 por ciento), Giardia lamblia (18,8 por ciento), Blastocystis hominis (15,9 por ciento) y Endomlimax nana (15,2 por ciento); además, se presentó 48,7 por ciento casos con poliparasitismo. El área bajo la curva (AUC) para los métodos de Ritchie modificado, sedimentación simple y parasitológico directo fue de 0,870; 0.648 y 0,796, respectivamente. El AUC del método de Ritchie modificado fue mayor en los varones (0,933) que en las mujeres (0.,92); así como en aquellos menores de 12 años (0,867), comparados con personas entre 12-37 años (0,833) y 18-39 años (0,800). Conclusiones. El método de Ritchie modificado presenta alto rendimiento diagnóstico y permite concentrar mayor cantidad de parásitos intestinales que el método de sedimentación simple. Además, presenta la ventaja de utilizar insumos de fácil acceso y baja toxicidad, lo que genera mayor posibilidad de implementación en los laboratorios de parasitología(AU)

Objective: Compare three enteroparasite concentration methods in human stool samples. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted of 154 stool samples divided into two groups: with parasites (n= 127) and without parasites (n= 27). The samples were subjected to three methods: direct parasitological examination, simple sedimentation and modified Ritchie's, and to microscopic observation in lugol and saline solution to a 40x increase. Results: In the non-parasite group the highest frequency in the presence of parasite structures was observed with the modified Ritchie's method (37 percent), followed by simple sedimentation (14.8 percent). In the parasite group a greater parasite load was obtained by Ritchie's method (3+ (15.8 percent) and 2+ (23.6 percent) than by simple sedimentation (3+ (10.2 percent) and 2+ (22.8 percent). The parasite species showing the highest frequency were Entamoeba coli (20.3 percent), Giardia lamblia (18.8 percent), Blastocystis hominis (15.9 percent) and Endomlimax nana (15.2 percent), whereas polyparasitism was found in 48.7 percent of the cases. The area under the curve (AUC) for the modified Ritchie's method, simple sedimentation technique and direct parasitological examination was 0.870, 0.648 and 0.796, respectively. In the modified Ritchie's method the AUC was greater in male (0.933) than in female subjects (0.92), as well as in subjects aged under 12 years (0.867) in comparison with people aged 12-37 years (0.833) and 18-39 years (0.800). Conclusions: The modified Ritchie's method has a high diagnostic yield and makes it possible to concentrate a larger number of intestinal parasites than the simple sedimentation method. Additionally, it has the advantage of using inputs of easy access and low toxicity, broadening the possibility of its implementation in parasitology laboratories(AU)

Alta prevalência de Balantidium coli em crianças de uma Escola Municipal de Moreira Sales - Pr / High prevalence of balantidium coli in children of a Municipal School in Moreira Sales - Pr

As doenças causadas por parasitos intestinais estão entre os mais frequentes agravos do mundo, pois é um problema de saúde pública que atinge a maioria da população. O presente estudo teve como objetivo verificar a prevalência de parasitos em crianças de 4 a 6 anos de uma escola municipal de Moreira Sales, PR. A pesquisa foi composta por inquérito parasitológico e epidemiológico em crianças matriculadas em uma escola municipal em julho de 2017. O critério para inclusão no estudo foi: coletar a amostra de fezes, responder o questionário socioepidemiológico e ter o Termo de Consentimento Livre e Esclarecido (TCLE) assinado pelos pais e/ou responsáveis. Participaram do estudo 42 crianças com idades entre 4 e 6 anos, das quais 66,7% eram meninas. Dos participantes, dez crianças (23,8%) apresentaram infecção por Balantidium coli, sendo que destas, duas apresentaram infecção mista por Entamoeba coli. Foi observado que a maioria dos infectados possuíam animais de estimação (60%), roíam unhas (60%), consumiam hortaliças (80%) e todas as crianças brincavam na terra, sendo esses alguns fatores de risco para a infecção. Diante dos resultados apresentados, é possível perceber que existem vários fatores que podem estar associados à infecção por Balantidium coli, sendo os principais: falta de saneamento básico e os hábitos de higiene inadequado. Portanto, fatores importantes para se promover a conscientização e ação profilática da população, com o intuito de minimizar as parasitoses, principalmente nas crianças.

Diseases caused by intestinal parasites are among the most frequent ones in the world, since it is a public health issue affecting most of the population. The purpose of this study was to verify the prevalence of parasites in children aged 4 to 6 years at a school in the municipality of Moreira Sales, in the state of Paraná, Brazil. The study was comprised by the parasitological and epidemiological investigation in children enrolled in a school in the city in July 2017. The criteria for inclusion in the study was to collect the stool sample, answer the socio-epidemiological questionnaire and sign a Free and Clarified Consent Form. A total of 42 children took part in this study, with ages ranging between 4 and 6 years, of which 66.7% were female. From the participants, ten children (23.8%) presented infection by Balantidium coli, and among which, two of them presented mixed infection by Entamoeba coli. It was observed that most of the infected children had pets (60%), bit their nails (60%), consumed vegetables (80%) and all children played on dirt, which are some of the risk factors for infection. Considering the results, it is possible to observe that there are several factors that can be associated to infection by Balantidium coli, among which: basic sanitation and hygiene habits. Therefore, raising awareness and presenting prophylactic action to the population is essential in order to minimize intestinal parasitosis, especially in children.

Patatin-like phospholipases in microbial infections with emerging roles in fatty acid metabolism and immune regulation by Apicomplexa.

Emerging lipidomic technologies have enabled researchers to dissect the complex roles of phospholipases in lipid metabolism, cellular signaling and immune regulation. Host phospholipase products are involved in stimulating and resolving the inflammatory response to pathogens. While many pathogen-derived phospholipases also manipulate the immune response, they have recently been shown to be involved in lipid remodeling and scavenging during replication. Animal and plant hosts as well as many pathogens contain a family of patatin-like phospholipases, which have been shown to have phospholipase A2 activity. Proteins containing patatin-like phospholipase domains have been identified in protozoan parasites within the Apicomplexa phylum. These parasites are the causative agents of some of the most widespread human diseases. Malaria, caused by Plasmodium spp., kills nearly half a million people worldwide each year. Toxoplasma and Cryptosporidium infect millions of people each year with lethal consequences in immunocompromised populations. Parasite-derived patatin-like phospholipases are likely effective drug targets and progress in the tools available to the Apicomplexan field will allow for a closer look at the interplay of lipid metabolism and immune regulation during host infection.

Combining epidemiology with basic biology of sand flies, parasites, and hosts to inform leishmaniasis transmission dynamics and control.

Quantitation of the nonlinear heterogeneities in Leishmania parasites, sand fly vectors, and mammalian host relationships provides insights to better understand leishmanial transmission epidemiology towards improving its control. The parasite manipulates the sand fly via production of promastigote secretory gel (PSG), leading to the "blocked sand fly" phenotype, persistent feeding attempts, and feeding on multiple hosts. PSG is injected into the mammalian host with the parasite and promotes the establishment of infection. Animal models demonstrate that sand flies with the highest parasite loads and percent metacyclic promastigotes transmit more parasites with greater frequency, resulting in higher load infections that are more likely to be both symptomatic and efficient reservoirs. The existence of mammalian and sand fly "super-spreaders" provides a biological basis for the spatial and temporal clustering of clinical leishmanial disease. Sand fly blood-feeding behavior will determine the efficacies of indoor residual spraying, topical insecticides, and bed nets. Interventions need to have sufficient coverage to include transmission hot spots, especially in the absence of field tools to assess infectiousness. Interventions that reduce sand fly densities in the absence of elimination could have negative consequences, for example, by interfering with partial immunity conferred by exposure to sand fly saliva. A deeper understanding of both sand fly and host biology and behavior is essential to ensuring effectiveness of vector interventions.

Técnica de sedimentación espontánea en tubo para diagnóstico de enteroparasitosis en centros de salud de primer nivel / Spontaneous sedimentation in tube technique for enteroparasitosis diagnosis in primary health-care centers

OBJETIVO: evaluar la eficacia de la técnica de sedimentación espontánea en tubo - 45 min (TSET) como alternativa a la técnica Ritchie modificada y el examen directo. Diseño Transversal, descriptivo, ecológico y comparativo. Experimento a triple ciego. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Se obtuvo 384 muestras de heces fecales de niños de 7 a 10 años de edad, de tres establecimientos escolares de la ciudad de Cochabamba, escogidas al azar. Se realizó el análisis estadístico con OpenEpi versión 3.01 RESULTADOS: Los parásitos observados con mayor frecuencia entre los Helmintos fueron: Áscaris lumbricoides 142 (36,9%) y Trichuris trichura 89 (23,1%). Entre los Protozoarios: Entamoeba coli 228 (59,3 %) y Iodomoeba butsclii 86 (22,3 %). La técnica TSET detectó poliparasitismo y monoparasitismo de manera similar a la técnica de Ritchie modificada. Los parásitos encontrados con mayor frecuencia en muestras poliparasitarias fueron Entamoeba histolytica y Giardia lamblia, entre los Helmintos dos casos de Ascaris lumbricoides y uno de Himenolepys nana. La técnica propuesta presentó una sensibilidad y valor predictivo negativo 100 %, especificidad 70.5 % y valor predictivo positivo 97.2 %. El coeficiente de concordancia de Kappa entre "Técnica de Sedimentación Espontánea en Tubo -45 min" y la Técnica de Ritchie fue 0,820, (p<0,01); y en relación a las 2 horas de reposo fue Kappa = 1 (p< 0,01). RECOMENDACIONES: Se recomienda utilizar la Técnica de Sedimentación Espontánea en Tubo - 45 min como una prueba alternativa a la Técnica de Ritchie Modificado, por las ventajas que presenta.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness of spontaneous sedimentation in tube technique - 45 min as alternative to modified Ritchie concentration technique and direct examination. Design transversal, descriptive, ecological and comparative study. Triple-blind experiment. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A total of 384 feces samples of children aged 7 to 10 years old were collected. Samples were obtained from three schools chosen at random in Cochabamba city. Statistical analysis with OpenEpi version 3.01 was performed. RESULTS: Áscaris lumbricoides 142 (36.9%) and Trichuris trichura 89 (23.1%) were the most frequently observed parasites among Helminths. Entamoeba coli 228 (59.3%) and Iodomoeba butsclii 86 (22.3%) were more frequently observed among Protozoa. The "Spontaneous sedimentation in tube technique - 45 min" (TSET) detected polyparasitism and monoparasitism similar to Modified Ritchie Concentration Technique (MRCT). Polyparasite samples displayed a higher frecuency of Entamoeba histolytica and Giardia lamblia parasites, and among Helminths it was found two cases of Ascaris lumbricoides and one of Himenolepys nana. The proposed technique presented a sensitivity and negative predictive value of 100%, specificity 70.5%, and positive predictive value 97.2%. Kappa concordance coefficient between TSET and Ritchie Technique was 0.820, (p <0.01) and Kappa = 1 (p <0.01) at2 hours of rest. CONCLUSIONS: Using this technique within 45 minutes, as an alternative test to Ritchie Technique, is recommended.

A semi-synthetic whole parasite vaccine designed to protect against blood stage malaria.

UNLABELLED: Although attenuated malaria parasitized red blood cells (pRBCs) are promising vaccine candidates, their application in humans may be restricted for ethical and regulatory reasons. Therefore, we developed an organic microparticle-based delivery platform as a whole parasite malaria-antigen carrier to mimic pRBCs. Killed blood stage parasites were encapsulated within liposomes that are targeted to antigen presenting cells (APCs). Mannosylated lipid core peptides (MLCPs) were used as targeting ligands for the liposome-encapsulated parasite antigens. MLCP-liposomes, but not unmannosylated liposomes, were taken-up efficiently by APCs which then significantly upregulated expression of MHC-ll and costimulatory molecules, CD80 and CD86. Two such vaccines using rodent model systems were constructed - one with Plasmodium chabaudi and the other with P. yoelii. MLCP-liposome vaccines were able to control the parasite burden and extended the survival of mice. Thus, we have demonstrated an alternative delivery system to attenuated pRBCs with similar vaccine efficacy and added clinical advantages. Such liposomes are promising candidates for a human malaria vaccine. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Attenuated whole parasite-based vaccines, by incorporating all parasite antigens, are very promising candidates, but issues relating to production, storage and safety concerns are significantly slowing their development. We therefore developed a semi-synthetic whole parasite malaria vaccine that is easily manufactured and stored. Two such prototype vaccines (a P. chabaudi and a P. yoelii vaccine) have been constructed. They are non-infectious, highly immunogenic and give good protection profiles. This semi-synthetic delivery platform is an exciting strategy to accelerate the development of a licensed malaria vaccine. Moreover, this strategy can be potentially applied to a wide range of pathogens.

The Src kinases Hck, Fgr and Lyn activate Arg to facilitate IgG-mediated phagocytosis and Leishmania infection.

Leishmaniasis is a devastating disease that disfigures or kills nearly two million people each year. Establishment and persistence of infection by the obligate intracellular parasite Leishmania requires repeated uptake by macrophages and other phagocytes. Therefore, preventing uptake could be a novel therapeutic strategy for leishmaniasis. Amastigotes, the life cycle stage found in the human host, bind Fc receptors and enter macrophages primarily through immunoglobulin-mediated phagocytosis. However, the host machinery that mediates amastigote uptake is poorly understood. We have previously shown that the Arg (also known as Abl2) non-receptor tyrosine kinase facilitates L. amazonensis amastigote uptake by macrophages. Using small-molecule inhibitors and primary macrophages lacking specific Src family kinases, we now demonstrate that the Hck, Fgr and Lyn kinases are also necessary for amastigote uptake by macrophages. Src-mediated Arg activation is required for efficient uptake. Interestingly, the dual Arg and Src kinase inhibitor bosutinib, which is approved to treat cancer, not only decreases amastigote uptake, but also significantly reduces disease severity and parasite burden in Leishmania-infected mice. Our results suggest that leishmaniasis could potentially be treated with host-cell-active agents such as kinase inhibitors.

Metals, Parasites, and Environmental Conditions Affecting Breeding Populations of Spotted Salamanders (Ambystoma maculatum) in Northern Arkansas, USA.

The spotted salamander (Ambystoma maculatum) is indigenous to northern Arkansas, and several breeding sites are known to exist in the region. Spotted salamanders (n = 17) were collected and examined for parasites and only three females harbored nematodes (Physaloptera spp.). Chronic aquatic bioassays were conducted using water collected from eight breeding ponds during different hydroperiod events. No lethal or sublethal effects were measured in Ceriodaphnia dubia; however, decreased growth and survival were seen in Pimephales promelas. Aqueous, sediment, and salamander hepatic samples were analyzed for As, Cd, Cu, Pb, and Ni. Metal analysis revealed possible increased metal exposure following precipitation, with greatest metal concentrations measured in sediment samples. Hepatic metal concentrations were similar in parasitized and non-parasitized individuals, and greatest Pb concentrations were measured following normal precipitation events. Determining environmental stressors of amphibians, especially during their breeding and subsequent larval life stage, is imperative to improve species conservation.

Parasitos de aves e mamíferos silvestres em cativeiro no estado de Pernambuco / Parasites of birds and mammals in captivity in Pernambuco state, Brazil

Os animais silvestres são hospedeiros de uma grande variedade de parasitos que podem interferir em sua conservação ex situ. O objetivo deste estudo foi identificar os parasitos gastrointestinais (PGI) e ectoparasitos dos animais do Centro de Triagem de Animais Silvestres (CETAS) do Instituto Brasileiro de Meio Ambiente e Recursos Naturais Renováveis (IBAMA) de Recife, Pernambuco, além de determinar os aspectos do manejo em cativeiro que possam estar relacionados com os parasitos identificados. Foram coletados ectoparasitos e amostras fecais de 223 aves e mamíferos, as quais foram processadas pelos métodos: microscopia direta, flutuação e sedimentação. Helmintos e/ou protozoários foram detectados em 91 (40,8%) amostras fecais, sendo 64 (70,3%) de aves e 27 (29,7%) de mamíferos. Ovos de Capillaria sp., Ascaridida, Spirurida e oocistos de Eimeria sp. foram detectados nas amostras fecais das aves, enquanto ovos de Trichuris trichiura, Strongyloides sp., Toxocara canis, Ancylostoma sp., Strongylida e oocistos de Coccídios foram encontrados nas amostras fecais de mamíferos. Os ectoparasitos identificados em aves foram Colpocephalum turbinatum, Kurodaia (Kurodaia) fulvofasciata, Halipeurus sp., Naubates sp., Saemundssonia sp., Austromenopon sp., Paragoniocotes sp., Brueelia sp., Myrsidea sp. and Pseudolynchia sp., enquanto em mamíferos os ectoparasitos identificados foram Rhipicephalus sanguineus, Amblyomma varium, A. calcaratum, A. nodosum, Ornithodoros talaje e Ctenocephalides felis felis. A. calcaratum e O. talaje são registrados pela primeira vez em Pernambuco e T. tetradactyla é apresentado como novo hospedeiro de O. talaje. Nenhum dos animais estudados apresentou sinais clínicos em decorrência da infecção/infestação parasitária. Parasitos com potencial zoonótico como T. trichiura, Strongyloides sp., T. canis e Ancylostoma sp. foram identificados em primatas não humanos e carnívoros. Precárias condições estruturais e sanitárias do CETAS-PE estão...

Wild animals are host to a variety of parasites that may interfere in their ex situ conservation. The objective of this study was to identify gastrointestinal parasites (GP) and ectoparasites of animals of Centro de Triagem de Animais Silvestres (CETAS) of Instituto Brasileiro de Meio Ambiente e Recursos Renováveis (IBAMA) in Recife/Pernambuco, Brazil, and to determine the aspects of captivity management that may be related to the parasites identified. We collected ectoparasites and fecal samples from 223 birds and mammals, which were processed by direct smear, flotation and sedimentation methods. Overall, helminthes and/or protozoa were detected in 91 (40.8%) fecal samples of 64 (70.3%) birds and 27 (29.7%) mammals. Capillaria sp., Ascaridida and Spirurida eggs and Eimeria sp. oocysts were found in fecal samples of birds, while eggs of Trichuris trichiura, Strongyloides sp., Toxocara canis, Ancylostoma sp., Strongylida and Coccidia oocysts were detected in fecal samples of mammals. Ectoparasites identified in birds were Colpocephalum turbinatum, Kurodaia (Kurodaia) fulvofasciata, Halipeurus sp., Naubates sp., Saemundssonia sp., Austromenopon sp., Paragoniocotes sp., Brueelia sp., Myrsidea sp. and Pseudolynchia sp. In mammals, the ectoparasites identified were Rhipicephalus sanguineus, Amblyomma varium, A. calcaratum, A. nodosum, Ornithodoros talaje and Ctenocephalides felis felis. A. calcaratum e O. talaje are presented for the first time in Pernambuco state and T. tetradactyla is reported as a new host of O. talaje. No animal presented clinical signs due to parasitic infection/infestation. Zoonotic parasites like T. trichiura, Strongyloides sp., T. canis and Ancylostoma sp. were identified in non-human primates and carnivores. Poor structural and sanitary conditions of CETAS-PE are related to the parasites identified in this study and should be taken into account for the adoption of appropriate control measures...

Pathological and parasitological aspects of the peacock (Pavo cristatus) infection by Tanaisia (Paratanaisia) bragai / Aspectos patológicos e parasitológicos da infecção por Tanaisia (Paratanaisia) bragai em pavões (Pavo cristatus)

Trematodes belonging to the family Eucotylidae, including Tanaisia (Paratanaisia)bragai Santos, 1934are parasites of the kidney and ureter that affect several species of domestic and wild birds. Tanaisia bragai is considered a low pathogenic parasite, but high worm burdens may determine clinical complications, including signs of apathy, weight loss, diarrhea and death...

Os trematódeos da família Eucotylidae, incluindo Tanaisia (Paratanaisia)bragai Santos, 1934, são parasitos de rins e ureteres de várias espécies de aves domésticas e silvestres. Tanaisia bragai é considerada uma espécie pouco patogênica, mas que pode determinar complicações clínicas como apatia, perda de peso, diarreia e morte, quando em cargas parasitárias elevadas...

Fire and Parasites: An Under-Recognized Form of Anthropogenic Land Use Change and Mechanism of Disease Exposure.

Anthropogenic land use changes have altered ecosystems and exacerbated the spread of infectious diseases. Recent reviews, however, have revealed that fire suppression in fire-prone natural areas has not been recognized as a form of anthropogenic land use change. Furthermore, fire suppression has been an under-recognized mechanism altering the risk and transmission of infectious disease pathogens and host-parasite dynamics. However, as settlement patterns changed, especially due to colonial expansion in North America, Africa, and Australia, fire suppression became a major form of land use change which has led to broad-scale ecosystem changes. Because parasites of humans and animals can vector viral, bacterial, prion, fungal, or protozoan pathogens, concomitant changes associated with anthropogenic-induced changes to fire frequencies and intensities are of concern. I provide reference to 24 studies that indicate that restoring fire in natural areas has the potential to reduce ectoparasites without wings such as ticks, chiggers, fleas, and lice; ectoparasites with wings such as mosquitos, horn flies, face flies, and stable flies; and endoparasites affecting livestock and wildlife. This suggests that fire ecology and parasitology be considered as a priority area for future research that has implications for both humans and animals.

Bioclimatic distribution and prevalence maps for Fasciola hepatica in Espírito Santo State, Brazil

Fasciolosis affects different ruminant species and leads to great economic losses for cattle farmers worldwide. Thus, the current study aimed to evaluate bovine fasciolosis prevalence in the state of Espírito Santo, Brazil, using slaughter maps provided by slaughterhouses and verifying the origin of cattle. : A map was created based on analysis of epidemiological data. The ArcGIS/ArcINFO 10.1 software was employed in order to elaborate updated bioclimatic maps that displayed the fasciolosis prevalence within the state – per city– between 2009 and 2011.

Bioclimatic distribution and prevalence maps for Fasciola hepatica in Espírito Santo State, Brazil

Fasciolosis affects different ruminant species and leads to great economic losses for cattle farmers worldwide. Thus, the current study aimed to evaluate bovine fasciolosis prevalence in the state of Espírito Santo, Brazil, using slaughter maps provided by slaughterhouses and verifying the origin of cattle. : A map was created based on analysis of epidemiological data. The ArcGIS/ArcINFO 10.1 software was employed in order to elaborate updated bioclimatic maps that displayed the fasciolosis prevalence within the state – per city– between 2009 and 2011.

Avaliação in vitro do extrato alcoólico da própolis para o controle do Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus / An in vitro assessment of the alcoholic extract in propolis for the control of Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus / Evaluación in vitro de extracto alcoholico de propóleos para el control del Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus

Própolis é uma substância resinosa obtida pelas abelhas de diversas partes da planta e vem sendo utilizada desde a antiguidade devido seu amplo espectro de atividade biológica. A infestação em animais de grande porte por Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus é uma problemática nos dias atuais, em que se utiliza para sua eliminação medicamentos que causam a contaminação do animal, e dos seus subprodutos. O presente trabalho teve por objetivo avaliar in vitro a atividade do extratoalcoólico da própolis no combate ao carrapato da espécie Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus em vacas leiteiras da raça holandesa pertencentes a uma propriedade rural no município de Icaraíma- Paraná. O experimento foi inteiramente casualisado, os testes consistiram na comparação da postura e eclosão dos ovos de animais tratados com extrato alcoólico de própolis nas concentrações de 50%, 25%, 12,5% e 6,25%, no qual a concentração de 50% foi a mais eficiente, obtendo uma margem de 99,10% de eficácia; enquanto as concentrações de 25%, 12,5% e 6,25%, obtiveram uma eficácia de 73,53%, 77,07% e 50,93% respectivamente. Os resultados mostraram uma maior sensibilidade dos carrapatos à concentrações mais elevadas. A própolis pode ser uma opção de tratamento, podendo ser utilizado como uma fonte para atividade carrapaticida devido às suas inúmeras substâncias funcionais.

Propolis is a resinous substance obtained by bees from several parts of the plants and it has been used since ancient times due to its broad biological activity spectrum. Large-sized animals infested with Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus are nowadays considered a problem, and in order to eliminate the infestation, medicines and byproducts are used, which can cause animal contamination. The present study has the purpose of evaluating the in vitro activity of the alcohol extract in propolis in combating ticks from Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus species in Holstein cows belonging to a small farm in Icaraima- Paraná. The experiment was completely randomized, the assays consisted in the comparison of the laying and hatching of eggs in animals treated with the alcoholic extract from propolis in the concentrations of 50%, 25%,12. 5% and 6.25%. The concentration of 50% was the most efficient, yielding a margin of 99.10% efficiency. Meanwhile, the concentrations of 25%, 12,5% and 6.25%, had an efficiency of 73.53%, 77.07% and 50.93%, respectively. The results showed a greater sensitivity of ticks to the higher concentrations. Propolis, therefore, can be an treatment option, and can be used as a source of acaricide activity because of its several functional substances.

Propóleos es una sustancia resinosa obtenida por las abejas a partir de diferentes partes de la planta y se ha utilizado desde la antigüedad debido a su amplio espectro de actividad biológica. La infestación en animales de gran porte por Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus es un problema hoy en día, porque el tratamiento consiste en el uso de medicamentos que causan la contaminación del animal, y de sus derivados. Este estudio tuvo como objetivo evaluar la actividad in vitro del extracto alcohólico de propóleos para combatir la especie de garrapata Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus en vacas lecheras de la raza holandesa pertenecientes e una propiedad rural en el municipio de Icaraíma-Paraná. El experimento fue totalmente aleatorizado, pruebas consistieron en la comparación de la postura y eclosión de los huevos de animales tratados con extracto alcohólico de propóleos en concentraciones de 50%, 25%, 12. 5% y 6,25%, donde la concentración de 50% fue la más eficiente, obteniendo un margen de 99,10% de eficacia; mientras que las concentraciones de 25%, 12,5% y 6,25%, alcanzaron una eficacia de 73,53%, 77,07% y 50 93%, respectivamente. Los resultados mostraron mayor sensibilidad de las garrapatas a concentraciones más elevadas. Propóleos puede ser una opción de tratamiento, pudiendo ser utilizado como una fuente para actividad acaricida debido a sus numerosas sustancias funcionales.

Paleoparasitology: the origin of human parasites.

Parasitism is composed by three subsystems: the parasite, the host, and the environment. There are no organisms that cannot be parasitized. The relationship between a parasite and its host species most of the time do not result in damage or disease to the host. However, in a parasitic disease the presence of a given parasite is always necessary, at least in a given moment of the infection. Some parasite species that infect humans were inherited from pre-hominids, and were shared with other phylogenetically close host species, but other parasite species were acquired from the environment as humans evolved. Human migration spread inherited parasites throughout the globe. To recover and trace the origin and evolution of infectious diseases, paleoparasitology was created. Paleoparasitology is the study of parasites in ancient material, which provided new information on the evolution, paleoepidemiology, ecology and phylogenetics of infectious diseases.

Paleoparasitology: the origin of human parasites / Paleoparasitologia: a origem dos parasitas humanos

Parasitism is composed by three subsystems: the parasite, the host, and the environment. There are no organisms that cannot be parasitized. The relationship between a parasite and its host species most of the time do not result in damage or disease to the host. However, in a parasitic disease the presence of a given parasite is always necessary, at least in a given moment of the infection. Some parasite species that infect humans were inherited from pre-hominids, and were shared with other phylogenetically close host species, but other parasite species were acquired from the environment as humans evolved. Human migration spread inherited parasites throughout the globe. To recover and trace the origin and evolution of infectious diseases, paleoparasitology was created. Paleoparasitology is the study of parasites in ancient material, which provided new information on the evolution, paleoepidemiology, ecology and phylogenetics of infectious diseases.

O parasitismo é composto por três subsistemas: o parasito, o hospedeiro e meio ambiente. Não existe organismo que não possa ser parasitado. A relação entre um parasito e suas espécies de hospedeiro não resulta, na maior parte das vezes, em dano ou doença ao hospedeiro. Entretanto, numa doença parasitária, a presença de um determinado parasito é sempre necessária, pelo menos em um determinado momento da infecção. Algumas espécies de parasitos que infectam humanos foram herdados dos pré-hominídeos, e foram compartilhados com outras espécies de hospedeiro filogeneticamente próximas, mas outras espécies foram adquiridas pelo meio ambiente à medida que os humanos se desenvolveram. As migrações humanas espalharam os parasitos adquiridos por todo o mundo. Para recuperar e traçar a origem e evolução das doenças infecciosas foi criada a paleoparasitologia. Paleoparasitologia é o estudo dos parasitos em materiais antigos, que trouxe novas informações na evolução, paleoepidemiologia, ecologia e filogenética das doenças infecciosas.