Eustrongylides spp. (Nematoda: Eustrongylidae) in Polypterus endlicheri in central Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil / Eustrongylides spp. (Nematoda: Eustrongylidae) em Polypterus endlicheri na região central do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil

The demand for ornamental fish has increased in recent years in Brazil, however, the aquatic environment of artificial breeders facilitates the invasion of pathogens, including parasitic zoonoses, which are a limiting factor for production causing economic losses in creations. Knowledge of the distribution of agents causing parasitic diseases is important so that we can intervene in breeders, therefore, the objective of the present work is to report the occurrence of infection by Eustrongylides sp. (Nematoda: Eustrongylidae) in Polypterus endlicherii (Polypteriformes: Polypteridae) in central Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. The nematode was identified after being released a cyst in the scales, of a fish of the species P. endlicherii. It can be concluded that this is the first record of the occurrence of Eustrongylides sp. larvae in fish in Rio Grande do Sul, showing that the parasite is present in the central region of the state. Therefore, further studies should be carried out in order to verify the presence of the parasites in fish intended for human consumption. It should also be noted the need to be more careful when feeding fish with oligochaetes, especially those intended for human consumption.

A criação de peixes para ornamentação teve sua demanda aumentada nos últimos anos no Brasil, no entanto, o ambiente aquático dos criatórios artificiais facilita a invasão por agentes patogênicos, incluindo zoonoses parasitárias, que são um fator limitante para produção causando perdas econômicas nas criações. O conhecimento da distribuição de agentes causadores de enfermidades parasitárias é importante para que se possa intervir nos criatórios, portanto, o objetivo do presente trabalho é relatar a ocorrência da infecção por larva de Eustrongylides sp. (Nematoda: Eustrongylidae) em Polypterus endlicherii (Polypteriformes: Polypteridae) na região central do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. O nematódeo foi identificado após ser liberado de um cisto nas escamas, de um peixe da espécie P. endlicherii. Pode-se concluir que este é o primeiro registro da ocorrência de larvas de Eustrongylides sp. em peixes no Rio Grande do Sul, evidenciando que o parasito está presente na região central do estado. Portanto, mais estudos devem ser realizados a fim de verificar a presença dos parasitos em peixes destinados ao consumo humano. Salienta-se ainda, a necessidade de se ter maior cuidado ao alimentar peixes com oligoquetas, principalmente os destinados para alimentação humana.

New species of Polystomoides (Monogenoidea: Polystomatidae) parasitizing the urinary bladder of a freshwater turtle in Brazil / Nova espécie de Polystomoides (Monogenoidea: Polystomatidae) parasitando a bexiga urinária de uma tartaruga de água doce no Brasil

Trachemys dorbigni is the most abundant freshwater turtle species in Rio Grande do Sul, southern Brazil. Chelonians are known to host a wide variety of pathogens, including viruses, bacteria, hemoparasites and helminths. Among these, nine genera of polystomatid flatworms (Monogenoidea; Polystomatidae) infect freshwater turtles: Apaloneotrema, Aussietrema, Fornixtrema, Manotrema, Pleurodirotrema, Polystomoidella, Polystomoides, Uropolystomoides and Uteropolystomoides. However, little is known about the biology of these parasites in the Neotropical Realm. Through investigative cystoscopy, specimens of Polystomatidae were located inside the urinary bladder of the host T. dorbigni. Retrieved specimens were fixed and stained whole mounts prepared for taxonomic identification. In the present paper, a new species of Polystomoides (Monogenoidea: Polystomatidae) parasitizing the urinary bladder of a freshwater turtle of the species T. dorbigni in Brazil is described. Polystomoides santamariensis n. sp. differs from the congeneric species on the length of the genital spines, which are longer. Given the enormous diversity of freshwater turtles around the world, it is likely that a large number of chelonian polystomatids are still unknown.(AU)

Trachemys dorbigni é a espécie de tartaruga de água doce mais abundante do Rio Grande do Sul, no Sul do Brasil. Sabe-se que os quelônios são hospedeiros de uma grande variedade de patógenos, incluindo vírus, bactérias, hemoparasitos e helmintos. Dentre estes, oito gêneros de Polystomatidae (Platyhelminthes: Monogenoidea) infectam tartarugas de água doce: Apaloneotrema, Aussietrema, Fornixtrema, Manotrema, Pleurodirotrema, Polystomoidella, Polystomoides, Uropolystomoides e Uteropolystomoides. No entanto, pouco ainda se sabe sobre a biologia destes parasitos na Região Neotropical. Durante uma citoscopia investigativa, foram observados espécimes de Polystomatidae localizados no interior da bexiga urinária de T. dorbigni. Os espécimes coletados foram fixados e corados para identificação taxonômica. No presente artigo, uma nova espécie de Polystomoides (Monogenoidea: Polystomatidae) parasitando a bexiga urinária de tartaruga de água doce da espécie T. dorbigni no Brasil é descrita. Polystomoides santamariensis n. sp. difere das demais espécies no tamanho dos espinhos genitais, que são maiores. Devido a enorme diversidade de tartarugas de água doce ao redor do mundo, é provável que um grande número de polistomatídeos de quelônios ainda seja desconhecido.(AU)

Adapted Bailenger method improves the rate of Ascaris suum eggs recovery from liquid pig manure compost / Adaptações no método de Bailenger melhora taxa de recuperação de ovos de Ascaris suum em dejetos líquidos de suínos compostado

Liquid pig manure (LPM) is widely used as a compost fertilizer for vegetable crops destined for human consumption. However, these wastes may contain parasites eggs, such as the nematode Ascaris suum, that pose serious health risks to humans. We attempted to determine the most appropriate technique for recovering A. suum eggs from LPM compost. Samples were collected from two waste sources during composting, including 23 samples containing LPM, sawdust, and wood shavings, and 14 samples of LPM alone-both in triplicate. Samples were analyzed using several different recovery methods. Recovery of eggs by the modified Bailenger method with adaptations was significantly more effective and recovered 57% more eggs than by the modified Bailenger method alone. Willis-Mollay method, modified Faust method, and the simple sedimentation technique only recovered 4.4%, 13.9%, and 26% of eggs, respectively, compared with the modified Bailenger method with adaptations, indicating that the adjustments made to the Bailenger method were key to improving the recovery of A. suum eggs from compost and LPM.

Dejetos líquidos de suínos (DLS) são amplamente utilizado como adubo para as culturas vegetais destinados ao consumo humano. No entanto, estes resíduos podem conter os ovos de parasitas, tais como o nematoide Ascaris suum, que apresentam riscos graves para a saúde dos seres humanos. Neste estudo tentamos determinar a técnica mais apropriada para a recuperação de ovos de A. suum no composto de DLS e nos dejetos líquidos. Foram coletadas amostras de dois tratamentos destes resíduos, que consiste de 23 amostras de DLS + serragem + maravalha e 14 amostras de DLS sozinhos, todos em triplicata. Em ambos, dejetos líquidos e dejetos compostado foram analisados usando um método modificado Bailenger (BM), um método de Faust modificado (FM), o método de Willis-Mollay (WM), sedimentação simples (SS), e pelo método de Bailenger modificado com adaptações (BMA). A recuperação de ovos pelo Método BMA foi significativamente mais eficaz do que pela BM, com 57% mais ovos recuperados usando a técnica de BMA; além disso, o WM, FM, e o método SS recuperaram 4,4%, 13,9% e 26%, respectivamente, em comparação com o método BMA, indicando que os ajustes feitos com o método BM foram fundamentais para melhorar a recuperação de ovos de A. suum ovos em dejetos compostados e DLS puro.

Litomosoides silvai (Nematoda: Onchocercidae) parasitizing Akodon montensis (Rodentia: Cricetidae) in the southern region of Brazil / Litomosoides silvai (Nematoda: Onchocercidae) parasitando Akodon montensis (Rodentia: Cricetidae) na região Sul do Brasil

In the present study, Litomosoides silvai parasitizing Akodon montensis in the southern region of Brazil is reported for the first time. New morphological information is provided for some structures of this nematode species, such as a flattened cephalic extremity, presence of two dorsal cephalic papillae, female tail with a constriction at its tip, s shaped vagina, spicules characteristic of the carinii species group and microfilaria tail constricted at the tip. This nematode was found parasitizing the thoracic cavity with a prevalence of 10% (2/20), mean intensity of 4 (6/2), mean abundance of 0.4 (8/20) and range of infection of 2-6 specimens per host, in southern Brazil. This occurrence of L. silvai in A. montensis is a new geographical record for southern Brazil, in the Upper Paraná Atlantic Forest ecoregion of the northwestern region of Rio Grande do Sul, which is part of the Atlantic Forest biome.(AU)

No presente estudo é relatado pela primeira vez Litomosoides silvai parasitando Akodon montensis coletados na região Sul do Brasil. Foram fornecidas novas informações morfológicas para algumas estruturas desta espécie de nematódeo, tais como extremidade cefálica achatada, a presença de duas papilas cefálicas dorsais, cauda das fêmeas com uma constrição na ponta da cauda, vagina em forma de s, espículas de característica do grupo de espécies de carinii e cauda da microfilária com constrição na ponta. Este nematódeo parasitava a cavidade torácica com uma prevalência de 10% (2/20), intensidade média de 4 (8/2) e abundância média de 0,4 (8/20), e intervalo de infecção de 2-6 espécimes por hospedeiro no Sul do Brasil. A ocorrência de L. silvai em A. montensis é um novo registro geográfico, no sul do Brasil, a noroeste do estado do Rio Grande do Sul, na ecorregião da Mata Atlântica do Alto Paraná, parte do bioma da Mata Atlântica.(AU)

Adapted Bailenger method improves the rate of Ascaris suum eggs recovery from liquid pig manure compost / Adaptações no método de Bailenger melhora taxa de recuperação de ovos de Ascaris suum em dejetos líquidos de suínos compostado

Liquid pig manure (LPM) is widely used as a compost fertilizer for vegetable crops destined for human consumption. However, these wastes may contain parasites eggs, such as the nematode Ascaris suum, that pose serious health risks to humans. We attempted to determine the most appropriate technique for recovering A. suum eggs from LPM compost. Samples were collected from two waste sources during composting, including 23 samples containing LPM, sawdust, and wood shavings, and 14 samples of LPM alone-both in triplicate. Samples were analyzed using several different recovery methods. Recovery of eggs by the modified Bailenger method with adaptations was significantly more effective and recovered 57% more eggs than by the modified Bailenger method alone. Willis-Mollay method, modified Faust method, and the simple sedimentation technique only recovered 4.4%, 13.9%, and 26% of eggs, respectively, compared with the modified Bailenger method with adaptations, indicating that the adjustments made to the Bailenger method were key to improving the recovery of A. suum eggs from compost and LPM.(AU)

Dejetos líquidos de suínos (DLS) são amplamente utilizado como adubo para as culturas vegetais destinados ao consumo humano. No entanto, estes resíduos podem conter os ovos de parasitas, tais como o nematoide Ascaris suum, que apresentam riscos graves para a saúde dos seres humanos. Neste estudo tentamos determinar a técnica mais apropriada para a recuperação de ovos de A. suum no composto de DLS e nos dejetos líquidos. Foram coletadas amostras de dois tratamentos destes resíduos, que consiste de 23 amostras de DLS + serragem + maravalha e 14 amostras de DLS sozinhos, todos em triplicata. Em ambos, dejetos líquidos e dejetos compostado foram analisados usando um método modificado Bailenger (BM), um método de Faust modificado (FM), o método de Willis-Mollay (WM), sedimentação simples (SS), e pelo método de Bailenger modificado com adaptações (BMA). A recuperação de ovos pelo Método BMA foi significativamente mais eficaz do que pela BM, com 57% mais ovos recuperados usando a técnica de BMA; além disso, o WM, FM, e o método SS recuperaram 4,4%, 13,9% e 26%, respectivamente, em comparação com o método BMA, indicando que os ajustes feitos com o método BM foram fundamentais para melhorar a recuperação de ovos de A. suum ovos em dejetos compostados e DLS puro.(AU)

Litomosoides silvai (Nematoda: Onchocercidae) parasitizing Akodon montensis (Rodentia: Cricetidae) in the southern region of Brazil / Litomosoides silvai (Nematoda: Onchocercidae) parasitando Akodon montensis (Rodentia: Cricetidae) na região Sul do Brasil

In the present study, Litomosoides silvai parasitizing Akodon montensis in the southern region of Brazil is reported for the first time. New morphological information is provided for some structures of this nematode species, such as a flattened cephalic extremity, presence of two dorsal cephalic papillae, female tail with a constriction at its tip, s shaped vagina, spicules characteristic of the carinii species group and microfilaria tail constricted at the tip. This nematode was found parasitizing the thoracic cavity with a prevalence of 10% (2/20), mean intensity of 4 (6/2), mean abundance of 0.4 (8/20) and range of infection of 2-6 specimens per host, in southern Brazil. This occurrence of L. silvai in A. montensis is a new geographical record for southern Brazil, in the Upper Paraná Atlantic Forest ecoregion of the northwestern region of Rio Grande do Sul, which is part of the Atlantic Forest biome.(AU)

No presente estudo é relatado pela primeira vez Litomosoides silvai parasitando Akodon montensis coletados na região Sul do Brasil. Foram fornecidas novas informações morfológicas para algumas estruturas desta espécie de nematódeo, tais como extremidade cefálica achatada, a presença de duas papilas cefálicas dorsais, cauda das fêmeas com uma constrição na ponta da cauda, vagina em forma de s, espículas de característica do grupo de espécies de carinii e cauda da microfilária com constrição na ponta. Este nematódeo parasitava a cavidade torácica com uma prevalência de 10% (2/20), intensidade média de 4 (8/2) e abundância média de 0,4 (8/20), e intervalo de infecção de 2-6 espécimes por hospedeiro no Sul do Brasil. A ocorrência de L. silvai em A. montensis é um novo registro geográfico, no sul do Brasil, a noroeste do estado do Rio Grande do Sul, na ecorregião da Mata Atlântica do Alto Paraná, parte do bioma da Mata Atlântica.(AU)

Occurrence of Amblyomma longirostre in Cyanocompsa brissonii in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil / Ocorrência de Amblyomma longirostre em Cyanocompsa brissonii no Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil

Ticks are arthropods that are highly competent in transmitting pathogens to animals and humans. Among these, the genus Amblyomma is the most representative within the Neotropics. Amblyomma longirostre ticks are naturally distributed in countries of South, Central and North America. Their immature stages preferentially parasitize birds (Passeriformes), while adult stages are usually found on rodents. Therefore, reports of this tick species on wild hosts is epidemiologically relevant, especially because of these ticks' potential for transmitting pathogens to other wild and domestic animals, and also to humans. Thus, the aim of this study was to report infestation by Amblyomma longirostre on Cyanocompsa brissonii in southern Brazil.

Os carrapatos são artrópodes que apresentam elevada competência na transmissão de patógenos para animais e humanos. Entre esses, o gênero Amblyomma é o mais representativo dentro da região neotropical. Ixodídeos como Amblyomma longirostre estão distribuídos em países da América do Sul, Central e do Norte. Os estágios imaturos desta espécie parasitam preferencialmente aves (Passeriformes) e estágios adultos são encontrados principalmente em roedores. Logo, o registro de espécies de carrapatos em hospedeiros silvestres é epidemiologicamente relevante, devido ao potencial de transmissão dos patógenos a outros animais silvestres, domésticos e ao homem. Assim, o objetivo deste estudo foi relatar o parasitismo por Amblyomma longirostre em Cyanocompsa brissonii no sul do Brasil.

Multiparasitism in a wild cat (Leopardus colocolo) (Carnivora: Felidae) in southern Brazil / Multiparasitismo em um felino silvestre (Leopardus colocolo) (Carnivora: Felidae) no Sul do Brasil

Abstract Parasitic diseases reflect the health and balance of ecosystems, affecting not only individuals but also entire populations or communities. The aim of this study was to report on the diversity of parasitic helminths detected in the feces of a wild feline in southern Brazil. Parasites were obtained from fecal samples, and four techniques were used for parasitological examination: direct examination, centrifugal flotation with zinc sulfate (Faust technique), simple sedimentation (Hoffman technique) and Baermann-Moraes. The parasites were identified through micrometry and morphology, as follows: Ancylostoma sp., Toxocara sp., Trichuridae, Aelurostrongylus abstrusus, Alaria sp., and Spirometra sp. We recorded the genus Ancylostoma parasitizing L. colocolo for the first time.(AU)

Resumo Doenças parasitárias refletem a saúde e o equilíbrio dos ecossistemas, influenciando não só um indivíduo e sim uma população ou comunidade. Este trabalho teve por objetivo relatar a diversidade de helmintos encontradas nas fezes de um felino silvestre na região Sul do Brasil. Os parasitos foram obtidos a partir de amostras fecais, sendo utilizadas quatro técnicas para os exames parasitológicos: exame direto, centrífugo-flutuação com sulfato de zinco (Técnica de Faust), sedimentação simples (Técnica de Hoffman) e Baermann-Moraes. Os parasitos foram identificados através de micrometria e morfologia, sendo esses: Ancylostoma sp., Toxocara sp., Trichuridae, Aelurostrongylus abstrusus, Alaria sp. e Spirometra sp. Estudos da fauna parasitária de animais silvestres são relevantes, tanto para o equilíbrio e saúde desses animais, como para o controle e prevenção de doenças transmitidas ao homem. Ancylostoma spp. foi identificado pela primeira vez em L. colocolo.(AU)

Occurrence of Amblyomma longirostre in Cyanocompsa brissonii in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil / Ocorrência de Amblyomma longirostre em Cyanocompsa brissonii no Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil

Ticks are arthropods that are highly competent in transmitting pathogens to animals and humans. Among these, the genus Amblyomma is the most representative within the Neotropics. Amblyomma longirostre ticks are naturally distributed in countries of South, Central and North America. Their immature stages preferentially parasitize birds (Passeriformes), while adult stages are usually found on rodents. Therefore, reports of this tick species on wild hosts is epidemiologically relevant, especially because of these ticks' potential for transmitting pathogens to other wild and domestic animals, and also to humans. Thus, the aim of this study was to report infestation by Amblyomma longirostre on Cyanocompsa brissonii in southern Brazil.(AU)

Os carrapatos são artrópodes que apresentam elevada competência na transmissão de patógenos para animais e humanos. Entre esses, o gênero Amblyomma é o mais representativo dentro da região neotropical. Ixodídeos como Amblyomma longirostre estão distribuídos em países da América do Sul, Central e do Norte. Os estágios imaturos desta espécie parasitam preferencialmente aves (Passeriformes) e estágios adultos são encontrados principalmente em roedores. Logo, o registro de espécies de carrapatos em hospedeiros silvestres é epidemiologicamente relevante, devido ao potencial de transmissão dos patógenos a outros animais silvestres, domésticos e ao homem. Assim, o objetivo deste estudo foi relatar o parasitismo por Amblyomma longirostre em Cyanocompsa brissonii no sul do Brasil.(AU)

Reemerging of natural infection by Trypanosoma evansi in horses in Arari, Marajó Island, Brazil / Reemergência da infecção natural por Trypanosoma evansi em cavalos, na região do Arari, Ilha do Marajó, Brazil

Two outbreaks of trypanosomiasis by Trypanosoma evansi in horses in the municipality of Chaves, Marajó Island, Pará State, Brazil are reported. The first outbreak occurred in April 2011 in a farm with 147 horses; of these, 47 (31.97%) got sick, and 40 (27.21%) died. The second outbreak occurred in May 2012 and involved nine properties. Of a total of 679 horses, 209 (30.07%) got sick, and 183 (26.97%) died. The main clinical signs observed in these horses were weight loss, abdominal edema, toe dragging, and pelvic muscle atrophy. Necropsy was performed in two horses, one from each outbreak. Macroscopic alterations were not seen in the horse from the first outbreak; however, the horse from the second outbreak exhibited emaciation, pallor and icterus, as well as enlarged spleen with prominent white pulp at cut surface. Histopathology of the central nervous system of both animals revealed mild to severe, diffuse lymphoplasmacytic encephalitis, with presence of Mott cells. Immunohistochemistry for T. evansi revealed structures similar to intralesional trypomastigote forms. Between November and December of 2013, an epidemiological survey was carried out in the municipalities of Cachoeira do Arari, Santa Cruz do Arari, Salvaterra, Soure, and Chaves. Only Santa Cruz do Arari and Chaves had reported cases of the disease. Blood samples were collected from 243 horses for detection of T. evansi DNA by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and 20 were positive.(AU)

São relatados dois surtos de tripanossomíase por Trypanosoma evansi , em cavalos no município de Chaves, Ilha do Marajó, Pará, Brasil. O primeiro surto ocorreu em abril de 2011 em uma fazenda com 147 cavalos, em que 47 (31,97%) adoeceram e 40 (27,21%) morreram. O segundo ocorreu em maio de 2012 e envolveu nove propriedades. De um total de 679 cavalos, 209 (30,07%) adoeceram e 183 (26,97%) morreram. Os principais sinais clínicos observados foram perda de peso, edema abdominal, emboletamento dos membros e atrofia da musculatura da região pélvica e membros posteriores. A necropsia foi realizada em dois cavalos, um de cada surto. O equino do primeiro surto não apresentou lesões macroscópicas, enquanto o segundo, do segundo surto, apresentava emagrecimento, palidez e icterícia, aumento do baço com protrusão da polpa branca ao corte. O sistema nervoso central de ambos os animais revelou uma leve à severa encefalite linfoplasmocitária, difusa, com presença de células de Mott. A imunohistoquímica para T. evansi revelou estruturas similares a formas tripomastigotas nas lesões. Entre novembro e dezembro de 2013, um levantamento epidemiológico foi realizado nos municípios de Cachoeira do Arari, Santa Cruz do Arari, Salvaterra, Soure e Chaves. Somente Santa Cruz do Arari e Chaves relataram casos da doença. Foram coletadas amostras de sangue de 243 equinos e realizada a reação em cadeia de polimerase (PCR) para a detecção do DNA de T. evansi das quais 20 foram positivas.(AU)

Molecular detection of Trypanosoma evansi (Kinetoplastida: Trypanosomatidae) in procyonids (Carnivora: Procyonidae) in Eastern Amazon, Brazil / Detecção molecular de Trypanosoma evansi (Kinetoplastida: Trypanosomatidae) em procionídeos (Carnivora: Procyonidae) na Amazônia Oriental, Brasil

The present study aimed to diagnose the natural infection of captive and free-living procyonids with Trypanosoma evansi in the states of Amapá and Pará, Brazil. From February 2012 to August 2013, whole blood samples and blood smears were obtained from 45 free-living procyonids and from nine procyonids kept in captivity in wild life refuges and zoobotanical parks in the states of Amapá and Pará. Whole blood samples were collected and kept at -20ºC for the detection of T. evansi DNA by PCR using the RoTat 1.2 forward and RoTat 1.2 reverse primers. In addition, the blood smears were processed and examined for the presence of trypomastigote forms of T. evansi. T. evansi DNA was detected in 18.52% (10/54) of the procyonids, namely, in captive crab-eating raccoons and captive and free-living coatis in Pará State. No trypomastigote forms were observed in the blood smears. DNA from T. evansi was detected in P. cancrivorus and N. nasua in Pará State, being this the first such report in P. cancrivorus.(AU)

O objetivo do presente trabalho foi realizar o diagnóstico da infecção natural por Trypanosoma evansi em procionídeos de vida livre e de cativeiro dos estados do Amapá e Pará, Brasil. Durante o período de fevereiro de 2012 a agosto de 2013, amostras de sangue total e esfregaços sanguíneos foram obtidos de 45 procionídeos de vida livre e de nove mantidos em cativeiro em mantenedores e Parques Zoobotânicos dos estados do Amapá e Pará. As amostras de sangue total foram coletadas e mantidas a -20ºC para pesquisa de DNA de T. evansi pela PCR utilizando-se os iniciadores RoTat 1.2 forward e RoTat 1.2 reverse. Os esfregaços sanguíneos também foram processados e examinados para a pesquisa de formas tripomastigotas do agente. DNA de T. evansi foi detectado em 18,52% (10/54) dos procionídeos, ocorrendo em mãos-peladas de cativeiro e quatis de vida livre e de cativeiro no estado do Pará. Não foram observadas formas tripomastigotas nos esfregaços sanguíneos. DNA de T. evansi foi detectado em P. cancrivorus e N. na sua no estado do Pará, sendo este o primeiro relato em P. cancrivorus.(AU)

In vitro effect of the association of citronella, Santa Maria herb (Chenopodium ambrosioides) and quassia tincture on cattle tick Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus / Efeito in vitro da associação de citronela, erva de Santa Maria e quássia sobre o carrapato bovino Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus

The tick Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus is an ectoparasite which causes high financial losses to the production of Brazilian cattle. The control of this parasite is accomplished by the administration of chemical products, but they are not adequately used, leading to high costs and stimulating the selection of resistant parasites. Thus, the objective of this experiment was to assess the in vitro efficiency of different formulations containing an association of citronella (Cymbopogon nardus), Santa Maria herb (Chenopodium ambrosioides) and quassia (Quassia amara) tinctures on the bovine tick R. microplus. For this, engorged females of the parasite were submitted to the laboratory immersion test. The solutions containing all three plants were tested in different concentrations. Approximately 84% of the treatments presented efficiency equal or superior to 95%. The treatments with citronella in concentration equal or superior to 5% showed better results and the concentration of 10% showed maximum efficiency, independently of the concentrations of the other two plants. The high efficiency of the solutions was attributed mainly to the reduction of egg laying and hatching rate, and, in a minor scale, to death of the engorged females. It suggests that the phytotherapic solutions are able to induce alterations on the system and reproductive capacity of the females of R. microplus in in vitro tests, besides presenting a tickicide action.

O carrapato Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus é o ectoparasita que mais causa prejuízos à pecuária brasileira. O controle desse parasita é realizado por meio da administração de produtos químicos, sendo que estes são utilizados de forma inadequada, gerando alto custo e estimulando a seleção de parasitas resistentes. Tendo em vista essa situação, o objetivo deste experimento foi avaliar a eficácia in vitro de diferentes formulações contendo tintura de citronela (Cymbopogon nardus), erva de Santa Maria (Chenopodium ambrosioides) e quássia (Quassia amara) sobre o carrapato bovino R. microplus. Para isso, fêmeas ingurgitadas do parasita foram submetidas ao teste laboratorial de biocarrapaticidograma. As soluções testadas continham as três plantas em diferentes concentrações e utilizadas em associação. Aproximadamente 84% dos tratamentos apresentou eficiência igual ou superior a 95%. Os tratamentos que continham citronela em concentração igual ou superior a 5% apresentaram melhores resultados e a concentração de 10% apresentou máxima eficiência, independente das concentrações da quássia e da erva de Santa Maria. A alta eficácia das soluções foi atribuída principalmente à redução na postura dos ovos e na taxa de eclosão da postura, e em menor escala à morte das teleóginas. Isso sugere que as soluções contendo os três fitoterápicos provocam alteração no sistema e na capacidade reprodutiva das fêmeas de R. microplus e também apresenta ação carrapaticida em testes in vitro.

In vitro effect of the association of citronella, Santa Maria herb (Chenopodium ambrosioides) and quassia tincture on cattle tick Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus / Efeito in vitro da associação de citronela, erva de Santa Maria e quássia sobre o carrapato bovino Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus

The tick Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus is an ectoparasite which causes high financial losses to the production of Brazilian cattle. The control of this parasite is accomplished by the administration of chemical products, but they are not adequately used, leading to high costs and stimulating the selection of resistant parasites. Thus, the objective of this experiment was to assess the in vitro efficiency of different formulations containing an association of citronella (Cymbopogon nardus), Santa Maria herb (Chenopodium ambrosioides) and quassia (Quassia amara) tinctures on the bovine tick R. microplus. For this, engorged females of the parasite were submitted to the laboratory immersion test. The solutions containing all three plants were tested in different concentrations. Approximately 84% of the treatments presented efficiency equal or superior to 95%. The treatments with citronella in concentration equal or superior to 5% showed better results and the concentration of 10% showed maximum efficiency, independently of the concentrations of the other two plants. The high efficiency of the solutions was attributed mainly to the reduction of egg laying and hatching rate, and, in a minor scale, to death of the engorged females. It suggests that the phytotherapic solutions are able to induce alterations on the system and reproductive capacity of the females of R. microplus in in vitro tests, besides presenting a tickicide action.(AU)

O carrapato Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus é o ectoparasita que mais causa prejuízos à pecuária brasileira. O controle desse parasita é realizado por meio da administração de produtos químicos, sendo que estes são utilizados de forma inadequada, gerando alto custo e estimulando a seleção de parasitas resistentes. Tendo em vista essa situação, o objetivo deste experimento foi avaliar a eficácia in vitro de diferentes formulações contendo tintura de citronela (Cymbopogon nardus), erva de Santa Maria (Chenopodium ambrosioides) e quássia (Quassia amara) sobre o carrapato bovino R. microplus. Para isso, fêmeas ingurgitadas do parasita foram submetidas ao teste laboratorial de biocarrapaticidograma. As soluções testadas continham as três plantas em diferentes concentrações e utilizadas em associação. Aproximadamente 84% dos tratamentos apresentou eficiência igual ou superior a 95%. Os tratamentos que continham citronela em concentração igual ou superior a 5% apresentaram melhores resultados e a concentração de 10% apresentou máxima eficiência, independente das concentrações da quássia e da erva de Santa Maria. A alta eficácia das soluções foi atribuída principalmente à redução na postura dos ovos e na taxa de eclosão da postura, e em menor escala à morte das teleóginas. Isso sugere que as soluções contendo os três fitoterápicos provocam alteração no sistema e na capacidade reprodutiva das fêmeas de R. microplus e também apresenta ação carrapaticida em testes in vitro.(AU)

Susceptibility of Trypanosoma evansi in the copaiba oil: in vitro test and in mice experimentally infected with the parasite

Background: Trypanosoma evansi is a flagellate which belongs to the salivate section, commonly observed parasitizing blood of equines, ruminants, pigs, dogs and wild animals in different regions of the world. It causes many losses to farmers due to death of animals and drug spending in endemic areas. The treatment of this disease in Brazil is only performed with diminazene aceturate; however it has been ineffective for many animals. During the last years many studies have been carried out with natural products such as the essential oils. Copaiba oil stands out due some properties described as anti-inflammatory, healing, antiedematogenic, antitumor, parasitic and antibacterial. Therefore, this study aimed to test, in vitro and in vivo, the susceptibility of T. evansi to copaiba oil. Materials, Methods & Results: The oils used in this study were obtained from Copaifera reticulata and Copaifera duckei trees, commonly found in the Tapajos National Forest. The procedure received authorization of IBAMA due the scientific purposes. This study identified three oils identified as copaiba 4-C (C. reticulata), copaiba 5-C (C. duckei) and copaiba 8-C (C. reticulata). The bioassay was performed in vitro using specific culture medium for T. evansi, previously described by Baltz, 1985. Copaiba oil was dissolved in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and tested in three concentrations (0.5, 1.0 and 2.0%) in culture medium containing the parasite. To the control test (without oil) the same volume of DMSO (10 µL) was added. Dimnazene aceturate was also used as a positive control at 0.5% of concentration. The counting of trypanosomes was performed in triplicate in a Neubauer chamber after 1, 3, and 6 hours after the experiment onset. For the tests in vivo, mice were infected (n = 40) and divided in 5 groups of 8 animals each. Group A consisted of healthy animals and Group B comprised animals infected with T. evansi and untreated. The other groups were infected and treated orally with oil of copaíba 4-C (Group C), copaiba 5-C (Group D) and copaiba 8-C (Group E), using a dose of 0.63 mL/kg/day for five consecutive days at intervals of 24 hours. In vitro tests with copaiba oil showed a reduction in the number of alive trypanosomes for the three tested concentrations, when compared to the control test after 1 and 3 h, similar to what occurred with testing aceturate. At 6 hours, it was not observed alive parasites in the test groups, differently from the control group which had an increase of trypanosomes compared to the time zero. The trypanocidal activity had a dose-dependent effect. In the in vivo experiment, the oil of copaiba administered orally had no curative efficacy for any of the groups; however group D treated with C. duckei showed prolonged longevity of the mice when compared to the groups B and C. Discussion: Trypanosoma cruzi and Leishmania amazonensis have been challenged on their susceptibility to oil of copaiba, with obtention of trypanocidal and leishmanicidal effects, similar process thet occurred in this study with T. evansi. According to scientific literature the copaíba oil increases the membrane permeability, as well as provides the depolarization of the mitochondrial membrane in parasite cells. A group of mice in this study showed prolonged longevity, showing that the variation of their compositions influence the trypanocidal effect. Based on these results it was concluded that the T. evansi may is susceptible to the oil of copaiba. Therefore, it can be natural product used as a new alternative and supplementar activity in the treatment of this protozoan, as have been suggested for leishmaniasis.

Parasitismo do ácaro Ornithonyssus bursa em humanos no Sul do Brasil / Infestation by Ornithonyssus bursa in humans in the Southern of Brazil

Background: The mite Ornithonyssus bursa is a bloodsucking parasite of domestic and wild birds and it is typical of tropical regions. On the host it can cause considerable loss of blood and lesions with intense itching. Cases of parasitism in human beings have been reported causing dermatitis, and most of these cases are due to the presence of nests of synanthropic birds near of the residences. When in large infestations or lack of hosts, the mites leave the nests to perform the parasitism in humans. Human infestation occurs mainly in people who handle infected birds and nests, or when happen the dispersion of these mites, through some path which lead to the interior of homes, factories and hospitals. Case: The present case occurred in November of 2008, when one of the dwellers of an apartment on the fourth floor of a building downtown in Santa Maria, woke up with pruritic lesions over the arms and legs. Upon inspection of the bedroom, several mites were seen, measuring almost a millimeter long, coming out of a pipe of a portable air conditioner installed on site. They were already scattered by the inside walls, floor and bed. The mites were collected and maintained in 70% alcohol for later identification. After the clarification the slides mounting were performed, and the mites with measure between 0.48 mm wide by 0.74 mm long were classified by the position of the anal opening, formed by the dorsal plate and three pairs of bristle on the sternal plate, as belonging to the species Ornithonyssus bursa. On external outlet of the air portable conditioner, a nest with a couple of birds and three cubs was found. The birds were identified as belonging to the species Myiodynastes maculatus, popularly known as brindle Bem-Te-Vi. The birds were removed from the place and treated with antiparasitic macrolactones to control the infestation. Discussion: In the present case report the O. bursa was found inside of an apartment in the downtown area, parasitizing birds which had their nest sheltered in the outlet air of a portable air conditioner. The presence of synanthropic bird brindle Bem-Te-Vi and the ease of access to the interior of the residence led to a home infestation of this ectoparasite. This fact may be happend due to the nesting of birds in urban buildings, seeking for a favorable environment for their survival, specially near of local that providing heat, like heaters, furnaces and hot water pipes. When the young birds parasitized by hematophagous leave the nests, the mites can cause the parasitism in humans mainly by food shortage. In the present study the occurrence of accidental home infestation and accidental parasitism in humans is related to the presence of many specimens of birds in the same nest, with offering of food and favorable environmental conditions for reproduction of the mites and their dissemination. Mite infestations in humans are characterized by erythematous papulovesicles distributed throughout the body, mainly on the limbs and chest. In this case report the parasitism caused erythematous lesions, especially in the arms with intense itching. The dermatitis produced by mesostigmatas hematophagous mites are not specific impeding the diagnosis, and may be confusing with other ectoparasites. For this reason the present diagnosis was performed by isolation and identification of the mite. Based on the description above it was possible to conclude that the bird Myiodynastes maculatus are parasitized by the mite Ornithonyssus bursa and its synanthropic habits allowed the infestation of mites in this residence.

Trypanocidal activity of human plasma on Trypanosoma evansi in mice / Atividade tripanocida do plasma humano sobre Trypanosoma evansi em camundongos

This study aimed to test an alternative protocol with human plasma to control Trypanosoma evansi infection in mice. Plasma from an apparently 27-year-old healthy male, blood type A+, was used in the study. A concentration of 100 mg.dL-1 apolipoprotein L1 (APOL1) was detected in the plasma. Forty mice were divided into four groups with 10 animals each. Group A comprised uninfected animals. Mice from groups B, C and D were inoculated with a T. evansi isolate. Group B was used as a positive control. At three days post-infection (DPI), the mice were administered intraperitoneally with human plasma. A single dose of 0.2 mL plasma was given to those in group C. The mice from group D were administered five doses of 0.2 mL plasma with a 24 hours interval between the doses. Group B showed high increasing parasitemia that led to their death within 5 DPI. Both treatments eliminated parasites from the blood and increased the longevity of animals. An efficacy of 50 (group C) and 80% (group D) of human plasma trypanocidal activity was found using PCR. This therapeutic success was likely achieved in the group D due to their higher levels of APOL1 compared with group C.(AU)

Este estudo teve como objetivo testar um protocolo alternativo com plasma humano para controlar a infecção por Trypanosoma evansi em camundongos. O plasma foi oriundo de um homem aparentemente saudável, com idade entre 27 anos e tipo de sangue A+. Foi detectada uma concentração de 100 mg.dL -1 de apolipoproteína L1 (APOL1) no plasma. Quarenta camundongos foram divididos em quatro grupos, contendo dez animais cada. Grupo A, composto de animais não infectados. Os roedores dos grupos B, C e D foram inoculados intraperitonealmente com um isolado de T. evansi. O Grupo B foi usado como um controle positivo. Três dias pós-infecção (DPI), os camundongos foram tratados com plasma humano. Uma dose única de 0,2 mL de plasma foi administrada nos roedores do grupo C. Os ratos do grupo D receberam cinco doses de 0,2 mL de plasma em intervalos de 24 horas. Os ratos do grupo B apresentaram parasitemia crescente, o que ocasionou a morte dos animais em 5 DPI. Ambos os tratamentos foram capazes de eliminar o parasito do sangue e aumentar a longevidade dos animais. O método da PCR detectou uma eficácia de 50% (grupo C) e 80% (grupo D) no tratamento com plasma humano. Este sucesso terapêutico obtido nos animais do grupo D provavelmente foi por receber maiores níveis de APOL1, comparado ao grupo C.(AU)

Rangelia vitalii: changes in the enzymes ALT, CK and AST during the acute phase of experimental infection in dogs / Rangelia vitalii: mudanças nas enzimas ALT, CK e AST na fase aguda da infecção experimental em cães

Rangelia vitalii is a protozoon that causes diseases in dogs, and anemia is the most common laboratory finding. However, few studies on the biochemical changes in dogs infected with this protozoon exist. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the biochemical changes in dogs experimentally infected with R. vitalii, during the acute phase of the infection. For this study, 12 female dogs (aged 6-12 months and weighing between 4 and 7 kg) were used, divided in two groups. Group A was composed of healthy dogs (n = 5); and group B consisted of infected animals (n = 7). Blood samples were collected on days 0, 10, 20 and 30 after infection, using tubes without anticoagulant to obtain serum and analyze the biochemical parameters. An increase in alanine aminotransferase (ALT) on day 20 (P < 0.05) was observed. Also, increased creatine kinase (CK) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels were observed throughout the experimental period (P < 0.05). No changes in the serum gamma-glutamyltransferase, urea and creatinine levels were observed. Thus, is possible to conclude that experimental infection with R. vitalii in dogs causes changes to the biochemical profile, with increased ALT, AST and CK enzyme levels.(AU)

Rangelia vitalii é um protozoário que causa doença em cães, sendo a anemia o achado laboratorial mais frequente. No entanto, existem poucos estudos sobre as alterações bioquímicas em cães infectados com o protozoário. Assim, este estudo tem como objetivo investigar as alterações bioquímicas de cães experimentalmente infectados com R. vitalii na fase aguda da infecção. Para o estudo, foram utilizados 12 cães fêmeas (com idade entre 6 a 12 meses e peso entre 4 a 7 kg), divididos em dois grupos. O grupo A (n = 5) foi composto de animais saudáveis e o grupo B (n = 7) de animais infectados. Amostras de sangue foram coletadas nos dias zero, dez, vinte e trinta PI, utilizando tubos sem anticoagulante para obtenção de soro e análise dos parâmetros bioquímicos. Foi observado um aumento na alanino aminotransferase (ALT) no dia 20 PI (P < 0,05) e aumento na creatinoquinase (CK) e aspartato aminotransferase (AST) em todo o período experimental (P < 0,05). Não foram observadas alterações séricas na gama-glutamiltransferase, uréia e creatinina. Portanto, é possível concluir que a infecção experimental por R. vitalii causa alterações no perfil bioquímico, com aumento na ALT, CK e AST.(AU)

Evidence of venereal and transplacental transmission of canine visceral leishmaniasis in Southern Brazi

Background: Zoonotic visceral leishmaniasis is a vector-borne disease caused by obligate intracellular protozoan para- sites of the genus Leishmania. In South America, dogs are the primary domestic reservoir host and control measures for this disease are focused on vector-control and euthanasia of seropositive dogs. The infection occurs usually between the invertebrate host and vertebrate host; however, transmission in the absence of the vector has been reported. Ticks as the vectors of the parasite L. infantum have been mentioned and investigated by researchers. Researchers have reported new mechanisms of transmission of canine visceral leishmaniasis, such as venereal and transplacental transmission. In October 2010, a veterinary clinic of Santa Maria received one canine, female, Doberman bred, two years old, L. chagasi positive. According to the authors, this would be the fi rst case of autochthonous leishmaniasis in the State of Rio Grande do Sul (RS), Brazil. Therefore, through epidemiological surveys, this study had the aim to clarify how the dog was infected by the parasite. Case: During the epidemiological survey was discovered that this canine positive for L. chagasi had never left the city of Santa Maria, place where it was born. However the parents of this animal were born in São Borja, RS, where they lived for about two months. According to the owner, both animals (male and female Doberman) were brought to Santa Maria as puppies in 2006 and since then never returned to the city of origin. Both animals were bought from different dog breeders in São Borja. Once in Santa Maria, the animals mated and the female gave birth to eight puppies. The owners of the puppies kept only one and the other puppies were sold to neighbors and other buyers. The canine male Doberman, four years old, had skin lesions that did not healed (especially in the hip region), difficulty in gaining weight, and nodules on the face. In the cytology of the skin lesions was observed in forms which resembling to amastigotes of Leishmania sp. Then blood was collected from the animal, aiming to perform serological tests, which confirmed the leishmaniasis. Serologic test was also performed in the female Doberman and in the puppies which were asymptomatic, but in direct contact with a symptomatic male. Serologic tests showed three animals as positive for the parasite, and they were euthanized as recommended by the Ministry of Health. Discussion : Based on data obtained we suggest that the male Doberman has came from São Borja town already infected with the parasite Leishmania sp., as well as it might have occurred to the female Doberman. The female may was infected during copulation (venereal infection), and then the puppies were infected. The possibility of venereal transmission in dogs was reported by researchers, when the presence of Leishmania amastigotes in testicular of symptomatic and asymptomatic dogs was observed, and in semen associated with genital lesions caused by the parasite. Since in Santa Maria there was not recorded the presence of the vector L. longipalpis, we hypothesized that the two puppies were infected with the parasite transplacentally. Researchers recently showed that canine visceral leishmaniasis has vertical transmission, because a female pregnant dog and infected with L. infantum bore positive puppies to the disease. Based on the survey and the results of epidemiological literature we concluded that this is the first case of autochthonous canine leishmaniasis recorded in Santa Maria (RS), with evidences of transplacental and venereal transmission.(AU)

Evidence of venereal and transplacental transmission of canine visceral leishmaniasis in Southern Brazi

Background: Zoonotic visceral leishmaniasis is a vector-borne disease caused by obligate intracellular protozoan para- sites of the genus Leishmania. In South America, dogs are the primary domestic reservoir host and control measures for this disease are focused on vector-control and euthanasia of seropositive dogs. The infection occurs usually between the invertebrate host and vertebrate host; however, transmission in the absence of the vector has been reported. Ticks as the vectors of the parasite L. infantum have been mentioned and investigated by researchers. Researchers have reported new mechanisms of transmission of canine visceral leishmaniasis, such as venereal and transplacental transmission. In October 2010, a veterinary clinic of Santa Maria received one canine, female, Doberman bred, two years old, L. chagasi positive. According to the authors, this would be the fi rst case of autochthonous leishmaniasis in the State of Rio Grande do Sul (RS), Brazil. Therefore, through epidemiological surveys, this study had the aim to clarify how the dog was infected by the parasite. Case: During the epidemiological survey was discovered that this canine positive for L. chagasi had never left the city of Santa Maria, place where it was born. However the parents of this animal were born in São Borja, RS, where they lived for about two months. According to the owner, both animals (male and female Doberman) were brought to Santa Maria as puppies in 2006 and since then never returned to the city of origin. Both animals were bought from different dog breeders in São Borja. Once in Santa Maria, the animals mated and the female gave birth to eight puppies. The owners of the puppies kept only one and the other puppies were sold to neighbors and other buyers. The canine male Doberman, four years old, had skin lesions that did not healed (especially in the hip region), difficulty in gaining weight, and nodules on the face. In the cytology of the skin lesions was observed in forms which resembling to amastigotes of Leishmania sp. Then blood was collected from the animal, aiming to perform serological tests, which confirmed the leishmaniasis. Serologic test was also performed in the female Doberman and in the puppies which were asymptomatic, but in direct contact with a symptomatic male. Serologic tests showed three animals as positive for the parasite, and they were euthanized as recommended by the Ministry of Health. Discussion : Based on data obtained we suggest that the male Doberman has came from São Borja town already infected with the parasite Leishmania sp., as well as it might have occurred to the female Doberman. The female may was infected during copulation (venereal infection), and then the puppies were infected. The possibility of venereal transmission in dogs was reported by researchers, when the presence of Leishmania amastigotes in testicular of symptomatic and asymptomatic dogs was observed, and in semen associated with genital lesions caused by the parasite. Since in Santa Maria there was not recorded the presence of the vector L. longipalpis, we hypothesized that the two puppies were infected with the parasite transplacentally. Researchers recently showed that canine visceral leishmaniasis has vertical transmission, because a female pregnant dog and infected with L. infantum bore positive puppies to the disease. Based on the survey and the results of epidemiological literature we concluded that this is the first case of autochthonous canine leishmaniasis recorded in Santa Maria (RS), with evidences of transplacental and venereal transmission.

Endoparasitoses em puma (Puma concolor) na regiao sul do Brasil / Endoparasitoses in cougar (Puma concolor) from the Southern region of Brazil

O puma (Puma concolor) é um felídeo encontrado em diversas zonas ecológicas do Brasil e Américas. Em pumas já foi reportado parasitismo por carrapatos ixodidae e endoparasitos de diferentes gêneros e espécies. Porém, pesquisas envolvendo a fauna silvestre brasileira ainda são poucas. Portanto, este estudo visou avaliar o parasitismo gastrintestinal em P. concolor mantido em cativeiro na região central do Rio Grande do Sul. Foram analisadas fezes de um puma adulto através dos métodos exame direto, centrífugo flutuação com sulfato de zinco e kinyon para pesquisa de parasitos. Nas amostras constatou-se a presença de infecção mista por oocistos de Cryptosporidium sp. e ovos Trichuris sp., além de oocistos de coccídeos sugestivos de Toxoplasma gondii ou Besnoitia sp. Com base nos resultados, pode-se concluir que o puma é um hospedeiro em potencial destes parasitos, apresentando quadro clínico assintomático. No entanto, cabe pesquisar o verdadeiro papel deste felídeo no ambiente relacionado à disseminação destes parasitos.

The cougar (Puma concolor) is a feline found in various ecological zones of the Americas, including Brazil. In cougar it has been reported parasitism by ticks Ixodidae and endoparasites of different genera and species. However, researches involving the Brazilian wild fauna are still few. Therefore, this research study aimed at evaluating the gastrointestinal parasitism in P. concolor kept in captivity in the central region of Rio Grande do Sul state. Fecal samples of an adult cougar were analyzed by the direct smear method, centrifugal flotation technique with zinc sulfate and kinyon staining method. Mixed infection by oocysts of Cryptosporidium sp. and eggs of Trichuris sp. were observed. Moreover, the samples showed oocysts of coccidea suggestive of Toxoplasma gondii or Besnoitia sp. Based on the results, one can conclude that the cougar is a potential host of these parasites, presenting with asymptomatic. However, future studies are needed to determine the true role of the feline in environment related to the spread of these parasites.