Cultural adaptation to Bolivian Quechua and psychometric analysis of the Patient Health Questionnaire PHQ-9.

OBJECTIVE: Cultural adaptation of the Patient Health Questionnaire-PHQ-9 to Bolivian Quechua and analysis of the internal structure validity, reliability, and measurement invariance by sociodemographic variables. METHODS: The PHQ-9 was translated and back-translated (English-Quechua-English) to optimise translation. For the cultural adaptation, experts, and people from the target population (e.g., in focus groups) verified the suitability of the translated PHQ-9. For the psychometric analysis, we performed a Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) to evaluate internal validity, calculated α and ω indices to assess reliability, and performed a Multiple Indicator, Multiple Cause (MIMIC) model for evaluating measurement invariance by sex, age, marital status, educational level and residence. We used standard goodness-of-fit indices to interpret both CFA results. RESULTS: The experts and focus groups improved the translated PHQ-9, making it clear and culturally equivalent. For the psychometric analysis, we included data from 397 participants, from which 73.3% were female, 33.0% were 18-30 years old, 56.7% reported primary school studies, 63.2% were single, and 62.0% resided in urban areas. In the CFA, the single-factor model showed adequate fit (Comparative Fit Index = 0.983; Tucker-Lewis Index = 0.977; Standardized Root Mean Squared Residual = 0.046; Root Mean Squared Error of Approximation = 0.069), while the reliability was optimal (α = 0.869-0.877; ω = 0.874-0.885). The invariance was confirmed across all sociodemographic variables (Change in Comparative Fit Index (delta) or Root Mean Square Error of Approximation (delta) < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: The PHQ-9 adapted to Bolivian Quechua offers a valid, reliable and invariant unidimensional measurement across groups by sex, age, marital status, educational level and residence.

Cultural adaptation to quechua and psychometric analysis of the patient health questionnaire (PHQ-9) in a peruvian population. / Adaptación cultural al Quechua y análisis psicométrico del Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) en población peruana.

OBJECTIVE: . To translate and culturally adapt the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) to three varieties of Quechua and analyse their validity, reliability, and measurement invariance. MATERIALS AND METHODS: . 1) Cultural adaptation phase: the PHQ-9 was translated from English into three variants of Quechua (Central, Chanca, Cuzco-Collao) and translated again into English. Then, experts and focus groups allowed the translations to be culturally adapted. 2) Psychometric phase: the unidimensionality of the adapted PHQ-9 was evaluated by using Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA), reliability was evaluated by internal consistency (Alpha and Omega), and measurement invariance according to Quechua varieties and sociodemographic variables was evaluated by using CFA, multigroups and MIMIC models (Multiple Indicator Multiple Cause). RESULTS: . Each of the adaptations of the PHQ-9 to the three Quechua varieties reported clear and culturally equivalent items. Subsequently, data from 970 Quechua-speaking adult men and women were analyzed. The general one-dimensional model reported an adequate fit (Comparative fit index = 0.990, Tucker-Lewis index = 0.987, Standardized root mean squared residual= 0.048, Root mean squared error of approximation=0.071); each of the Quechua varieties also showed an adequate fit. Reliability was high for all varieties (α = 0.865 - 0.915; ω = 0.833 - 0.881). The results of the multigroup CFA and MIMIC models confirmed measurement invariance according to Quechua variant, sex, residence, age, marital status and educational level. CONCLUSIONS: . The PHQ-9 adaptations to Central Quechua, Chanca and Cuzco-Collao offer a valid, reliable and invariant measurement, confirming that comparisons can be made between the evaluated groups. Its use will benefit mental health research and care for Quechua-speaking populations.

OBJETIVO: . Traducir y adaptar culturalmente el Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) a tres variedades del quechua y analizar su validez, confiabilidad e invarianza. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: . 1) Fase de adaptación cultural: el PHQ-9 fue traducido del inglés a tres variantes del quechua (Central, Chanca, Cuzco-Collao) y traducido nuevamente al inglés, posteriormente expertos y grupos focales permitieron adaptar culturalmente las traducciones. 2) Fase psicométrica: se evaluó la uni-dimensionalidad del PHQ-9 adaptado mediante un Análisis Factorial Confirmatorio (CFA), la confiabilidad se evaluó mediante consistencia interna (Alpha y Omega), y la invarianza de medida según variedades del quechua y variables sociodemográficas se evaluó empleando CFA multigrupos y modelos MIMIC (Múltiples Indicadores y Múltiples Causas). RESULTADOS: . Cada una de las adaptaciones del PHQ-9 a las tres variedades de quechua reportaron ítems claros y culturalmente equivalentes. Posteriormente, con 970 datos de quechuahablantes adultos varones y mujeres, el modelo general unidimensional reportó un ajuste adecuado (índice de ajuste comparativo: 0,990, índice de Tucker-Lewis: 0,987, residuo estandarizado cuadrático medio: 0,048, raíz del error cuadrático medio de aproximación: 0,071), lo mismo ocurrió para cada variedad del quechua. La confiabilidad fue alta para todas las variedades (α = 0,865 - 0,915; ω = 0,833 - 0,881). Los resultados del CFA multigrupos y modelos MIMIC confirmaron invarianza de medida según variante del quechua, sexo, residencia, edad, estado civil y nivel educativo. CONCLUSIONES: . Las adaptaciones del PHQ-9 a Quechua Central, Chanca y Cuzco-Collao ofrecen una medición válida, confiable e invariante, confirmando que se pueden hacer comparaciones en los grupos evaluados. Su uso beneficiará a la investigación y a la atención en salud mental de poblaciones quechuahablantes.

Adaptación cultural al Quechua y análisis psicométrico del Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) en población peruana / Cultural adaptation to Quechua and psychometric analysis of the Patient Health Questionnaire PHQ-9 in a peruvian population

Objetivo . Traducir y adaptar culturalmente el Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) a tres variedades del quechua y analizar su validez, confiabilidad e invarianza. Materiales y métodos . 1) Fase de adaptación cultural: el PHQ-9 fue traducido del inglés a tres variantes del quechua (Central, Chanca, Cuzco-Collao) y traducido nuevamente al inglés, posteriormente expertos y grupos focales permitieron adaptar culturalmente las traducciones. 2) Fase psicométrica: se evaluó la uni-dimensionalidad del PHQ-9 adaptado mediante un Análisis Factorial Confirmatorio (CFA), la confiabilidad se evaluó mediante consistencia interna (Alpha y Omega), y la invarianza de medida según variedades del quechua y variables sociodemográficas se evaluó empleando CFA multigrupos y modelos MIMIC (Múltiples Indicadores y Múltiples Causas). Resultados . Cada una de las adaptaciones del PHQ-9 a las tres variedades de quechua reportaron ítems claros y culturalmente equivalentes. Posteriormente, con 970 datos de quechuahablantes adultos varones y mujeres, el modelo general unidimensional reportó un ajuste adecuado (índice de ajuste comparativo: 0,990, índice de Tucker-Lewis: 0,987, residuo estandarizado cuadrático medio: 0,048, raíz del error cuadrático medio de aproximación: 0,071), lo mismo ocurrió para cada variedad del quechua. La confiabilidad fue alta para todas las variedades (α = 0,865 - 0,915; ω = 0,833 - 0,881). Los resultados del CFA multigrupos y modelos MIMIC confirmaron invarianza de medida según variante del quechua, sexo, residencia, edad, estado civil y nivel educativo. Conclusiones . Las adaptaciones del PHQ-9 a Quechua Central, Chanca y Cuzco-Collao ofrecen una medición válida, confiable e invariante, confirmando que se pueden hacer comparaciones en los grupos evaluados. Su uso beneficiará a la investigación y a la atención en salud mental de poblaciones quechuahablantes.

Objective . To translate and culturally adapt the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) to three varieties of Quechua and analyse their validity, reliability, and measurement invariance. Materials and methods . 1) Cultural adaptation phase: the PHQ-9 was translated from English into three variants of Quechua (Central, Chanca, Cuzco-Collao) and translated again into English. Then, experts and focus groups allowed the translations to be culturally adapted. 2) Psychometric phase: the unidimensionality of the adapted PHQ-9 was evaluated by using Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA), reliability was evaluated by internal consistency (Alpha and Omega), and measurement invariance according to Quechua varieties and sociodemographic variables was evaluated by using CFA, multigroups and MIMIC models (Multiple Indicator Multiple Cause). Results . Each of the adaptations of the PHQ-9 to the three Quechua varieties reported clear and culturally equivalent items. Subsequently, data from 970 Quechua-speaking adult men and women were analyzed. The general one-dimensional model reported an adequate fit (Comparative fit index = 0.990, Tucker-Lewis index = 0.987, Standardized root mean squared residual= 0.048, Root mean squared error of approximation=0.071); each of the Quechua varieties also showed an adequate fit. Reliability was high for all varieties (α = 0.865 - 0.915; ω = 0.833 - 0.881). The results of the multigroup CFA and MIMIC models confirmed measurement invariance according to Quechua variant, sex, residence, age, marital status and educational level. Conclusions . The PHQ-9 adaptations to Central Quechua, Chanca and Cuzco-Collao offer a valid, reliable and invariant measurement, confirming that comparisons can be made between the evaluated groups. Its use will benefit mental health research and care for Quechua-speaking populations.

Prevalence of Ehrlichia canis (Rickettsiales: Ehrlichieae) DNA in Tissues From Rhipicephalus sanguineus (Acari: Ixodidae) Ticks in Areas Endemic for Canine Monocytic Ehrlichiosis in Brazil.

Canine monocytic ehrlichiosis (CME) is a disease caused by the obligate intracellular bacterium Ehrlichia canis. Tropical lineages of Rhipicephalus sanguineus ticks play an essential role in the transmission of this pathogen. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the prevalence of E. canis DNA in tissue from R. sanguineus ticks in areas endemic for CME in Brazil and quantify levels of E. canis DNA in dissected tissues from these samples. A total of 720 ticks were collected from 72 dogs (36 dogs from the city Araçatuba in São Paulo state and 36 from Campo Grande in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul). Ticks were dissected to collect the guts, ovaries and salivary gland. A quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) targeting the disulphide bond formation (dsb) protein gene was performed to quantify the level of E. canis infection. The E. canis dsb-qPCR assay was positive for 31.9, 10, and 15.2% of the gut, ovary, and salivary glands, respectively. The average gut, ovary, and salivary gland bacterial load estimated by qPCR was 1.21 × 103, 2.60 × 103, and 4.92 × 103 gene copies/µl, respectively. This is the first report of E. canis DNA in ovaries of R. sanguineus ticks parasitizing dogs in these CME-endemic areas. These observations raise the possibility of E. canis trans-ovarial transmission.

Melhoramento do processo de extração de polpa de cherimoia (Annona cherimola) a nível industrial e o impacto sob sua qualidade microbiológica e sensorial

Atualmente no Peru, o processamento para obter a polpa de cherimoia é muito delicado e complexo devido ao fato deste fruto precisar de condições específicas para evitar a sua deterioração durante a fabricação, pois a carga de micro-organismos não pode ser reduzida pela pasteurização por causar sérios problemas nas características sensoriais da polpa. Este trabalho apresenta e avalia oito novos tratamentos para o processo de polpa de cherimoia, com trocas focadas na etapa de descascamento termoquímico, a fim de melhorar sua qualidade microbiológica e manter suas características sensoriais. Os resultados mostraram que todos os tratamentos influenciaram na redução da carga dos micro-organismos indicadores de alteração, enquanto que coliformes totais, E.coli e Salmonella spp. não foram detectados nas amostras avaliadas, assegurando sua inocuidade. Nenhum dos tratamentos influenciou negativamente as características sensoriais, ficando conformes segundo as provas realizadas por um painel treinado e qualificado. Em relação aos processos com pasteurização, que geram alterações indesejáveis do sabor, core aroma na polpa de cherimoia, os novos processos com descascamento termoquímico apresentados nesta pesquisa conservaram a qualidade sensorial enquanto que melhoraram a qualidade microbiológica, representado assim boas alternativas na produção deste fruto a nível industrial.(AU)

Currently in Peru, the cherimoya pulp process is very delicate and complex due to specific conditions that this fruit requires in order to avoid its spoilage during production. In addition, microorganisms load cannot be reduced through pasteurization step because it causes serious problems to sensorial pulp characteristics. This research presents and evaluates eight new treatments for cherimoya pulp process, with variations focused on thermochemical peeled step so that it is possible to improve its microbiological quality and keep its sensorial characteristics. The results showed that all treatments had influence on the reduction of indicator microorganisms of spoilage, while coliforms, E. coli and Salmonella spp. were not detected on the analyzed samples which guarantees its safety. None of the treatments had a negative influence on sensorial characteristics which were approved according tests performed by a trained and qualified panel. Unlike the pasteurization processes which generate undesirable changes in flavor, color and aroma in the cherimoya pulp, the new processes with thermochemical peeled showed in this research, preserved the sensory quality while microbiological quality was improved, thus representing good alternatives in the production of this fruit at an industrial level.(AU)

Melhoramento do processo de extração de polpa de cherimóia (Annona cherimola) a nível industrial e o impacto sob sua qualidade microbiológica e sensorial / Improvement of the process of extraction of cherimoya pulp (Annona cherimola) at industrial level and the impact under its microbiological and sensorial quality

Atualmente no Peru, o processamento para obter a polpa de cherimoia é muito delicado e complexo devido ao fato deste fruto precisar de condições específicas para evitar a sua deterioração durante a fabricação, pois a carga de micro-organismos não pode ser reduzida pela pasteurização por causar sérios problemas nas características sensoriais da polpa. Este trabalho apresenta e avalia oito novos tratamentos para o processo de polpa de cherimoia, com trocas focadas na etapa de descascamento termoquímico, a fim de melhorar sua qualidade microbiológica e manter suas características sensoriais. Os resultados mostraram que todos os tratamentos influenciaram na redução da carga dos micro-organismos indicadores de alteração, enquanto que coliformes totais, E. coli e Salmonella spp. não foram detectados nas amostras avaliadas, assegurando sua inocuidade. Nenhum dos tratamentos influenciou negativamente as características sensoriais, ficando conformes segundo as provas realizadas por um painel treinado e qualificado. Em relação aos processos com pasteurização, que geram alterações indesejáveis do sabor, cor e aroma na polpa de cherimoia, os novos processos com descascamento termoquímico apresentados nesta pesquisa conservaram a qualidade sensorial enquanto que melhoraram a qualidade microbiológica, representado assim boas alternativas na produção deste fruto a nível industrial.(AU)

Comportamento dos micro-organismos indicadores frente ao chapoteo na produção de polpa de camu-camu / Behavior of micro-organisms in the presence of splashes in the production of camu-camu pulp

O Chapoteo é uma nova etapa de processo estabelecida na produção de polpa de camu-camu, com a finalidade de obter um produto com melhor atributo de cor, vitamina C e sabor. Tendo em conta que esta etapa usa calor, os objetivos desta pesquisa foram: conhecer o efeito que tem o Chapoteo a nível industrial sobre a carga de Micro-organismos Indicadores da Alteração (MIA), e comparar essa carga com a obtida no Processo Convencional de Extração Mecânica (PCEM), antes da pasteurização. Os resultados mostraram que após o Chapoteo, todas as contagens para os grupos de micro-organismos avaliados estiveram abaixo de 100 UFC/g, sendo muito inferiores aos valores obtidos no PCEM. O Chapoteo demonstrou que pode reduzir significativamente a contagem de MIA, não sendo necessária a aplicação de uma etapa posterior de tratamento térmico no processamento de polpa de camu-camu.(AU)

Comportamento dos micro-organismos indicadores frente ao Chapoteo na produção de polpa de camu-camu

O Chapoteo é uma nova etapa de processo estabelecida na produção de polpa de camu-camu, com a finalidade de obter um produto com melhor atributo de cor, vitamina C e sabor. Tendo em conta que esta etapa usa calor, os objetivos desta pesquisa foram: conhecer o efeito que tem o Chapoteo a nível industrial sobre a carga de Micro-organismos Indicadores da Alteração (MIA), e comparar essa carga com a obtida no Processo Convencional de Extração Mecânica (PCEM), antes da pasteurização. Os resultados mostraram que após o Chapoteo, todas as contagens para os grupos de micro-organismos avaliados estiveram abaixo de 100 UFC/g, sendo muito inferiores aos valores obtidos no PCEM. O Chapoteo demonstrou que pode reduzir significativamente a contagem de MIA, não sendo necessária a aplicação de uma etapa posterior de tratamento térmico no processamento de polpa de camu-camu.(AU)

“Chapoteo” is a new process step established in the production of camu-camu pulp, in order to obtain a product with better attributes of color, vitamin C and flavor. Taking into account that this step makes use of heat, the objectives of this research were following to know the effect of Chapoteo at industrial level on the load of Indicator Microorganisms of Spoilage (IMS), and to compare this load against the one obtained through the Conventional Process of Mechanical Extraction (CPME), before pasteurization. The results showed that after Chapoteo step, all counts of the evaluated groups of microorganisms were < 100 CFU/g, which were much lower than the values obtained in the CPME. Chapoteo showed that it can reduce significantly the MIA counts, so it would not be necessary to apply a subsequent heat treatment step in the camu-camu pulp processing.(AU)

Immunogenic potential of Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus aquaporin 1 against Rhipicephalus sanguineus in domestic dogs / Potencial imunogênico da aquaporina 1 de Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus contra o carrapato Rhipicephalus sanguineus em cães domésticos

This study evaluated a recombinant aquaporin 1 protein of Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus (RmAQP1) as antigen in a vaccine against R. sanguineus. Five dogs were immunized with RmAQP1 (10 µg) + adjuvant (Montanide) (G1), and five were inoculated with adjuvant only (G2), three times. Twenty-one days after the last immunization, animals of both groups were challenged with R. sanguineus larvae, nymphs and adults, and their biotic potential was compared. Blood samples were collected before each immunization and every 28 days after the last immunization for 10 weeks. Serum antibody titers (IgG) were assessed by ELISA. We observed that: engorgement period of adult females from G1 was 12% shorter than G2; larvae from G1 had 8.7% longer engorgement period than G2 and weighed 7.2% less; nymphs from G1 had 4.5% shorter engorgement period than G2 and weighed 3.6% less; although the antibody titers increased following the second immunization, they rapidly decreased after the third immunization. Results indicated low immunoprotection of RmAQP1 against adult R. sanguineus ticks, and possible efficacy on larvae and nymphs fed on immunized dogs. Further studies should be performed for a full evaluation of the immunoprotection of RmAQP1 against R. sanguineus infestations in dogs.(AU)

Este estudo avaliou a proteína recombinante (aquaporina) do carrapato Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus como antígeno em vacina contra Rhipicephalus sanguineus. Cinco cães foram imunizados com RmAQP1 (10 µg) + adjuvante (G1) e cinco foram inoculados apenas com adjuvante (G2), três vezes. 21 dias após a última imunização todos os animais foram desafiados com larvas, ninfas e adultos de R. sanguineus, e potencial biótico dos carrapatos foi comparado. Amostras de sangue foram coletadas antes de cada imunização e a cada 28 dias após a última imunização, durante 10 semanas. Títulos de anticorpos dos soros dos cães foram avaliados por ELISA. Resultados: o período de ingurgitamento das fêmeas do G1 foi 12% mais curto que o período de ingurgitamento de G2; o período de ingurgitamento das larvas do G1 8,7% foi mais longo e o peso 7,2% menor que no caso de G2; o período de ingurgitamento das ninfas do G1 4,5% foi mais curto e peso 3,6% menor que no caso do G2; aumento dos títulos de anticorpos do G1 após a segunda imunização e declínio após a terceira imunização. Os resultados indicaram baixo potencial de imunoproteção de RmAQP1 contra R. sanguineus adultos, e possível eficácia contra larvas e ninfas, na dose testada. Sugere-se desenvolver novos estudos para melhor avaliação da eficácia de RmAQP1 contra R. sanguineus em cães.(AU)

Immunogenic potential of Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus aquaporin 1 against Rhipicephalus sanguineus in domestic dogs / Potencial imunogênico da aquaporina 1 de Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus contra o carrapato Rhipicephalus sanguineus em cães domésticos

Abstract This study evaluated a recombinant aquaporin 1 protein of Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus (RmAQP1) as antigen in a vaccine against R. sanguineus. Five dogs were immunized with RmAQP1 (10 µg) + adjuvant (Montanide) (G1), and five were inoculated with adjuvant only (G2), three times. Twenty-one days after the last immunization, animals of both groups were challenged with R. sanguineus larvae, nymphs and adults, and their biotic potential was compared. Blood samples were collected before each immunization and every 28 days after the last immunization for 10 weeks. Serum antibody titers (IgG) were assessed by ELISA. We observed that: engorgement period of adult females from G1 was 12% shorter than G2; larvae from G1 had 8.7% longer engorgement period than G2 and weighed 7.2% less; nymphs from G1 had 4.5% shorter engorgement period than G2 and weighed 3.6% less; although the antibody titers increased following the second immunization, they rapidly decreased after the third immunization. Results indicated low immunoprotection of RmAQP1 against adult R. sanguineus ticks, and possible efficacy on larvae and nymphs fed on immunized dogs. Further studies should be performed for a full evaluation of the immunoprotection of RmAQP1 against R. sanguineus infestations in dogs.

Resumo Este estudo avaliou a proteína recombinante (aquaporina) do carrapato Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus como antígeno em vacina contra Rhipicephalus sanguineus. Cinco cães foram imunizados com RmAQP1 (10 µg) + adjuvante (G1) e cinco foram inoculados apenas com adjuvante (G2), três vezes. 21 dias após a última imunização todos os animais foram desafiados com larvas, ninfas e adultos de R. sanguineus, e potencial biótico dos carrapatos foi comparado. Amostras de sangue foram coletadas antes de cada imunização e a cada 28 dias após a última imunização, durante 10 semanas. Títulos de anticorpos dos soros dos cães foram avaliados por ELISA. Resultados: o período de ingurgitamento das fêmeas do G1 foi 12% mais curto que o período de ingurgitamento de G2; o período de ingurgitamento das larvas do G1 8,7% foi mais longo e o peso 7,2% menor que no caso de G2; o período de ingurgitamento das ninfas do G1 4,5% foi mais curto e peso 3,6% menor que no caso do G2; aumento dos títulos de anticorpos do G1 após a segunda imunização e declínio após a terceira imunização. Os resultados indicaram baixo potencial de imunoproteção de RmAQP1 contra R. sanguineus adultos, e possível eficácia contra larvas e ninfas, na dose testada. Sugere-se desenvolver novos estudos para melhor avaliação da eficácia de RmAQP1 contra R. sanguineus em cães.

Immunogenic potential of Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus aquaporin 1 against Rhipicephalus sanguineus in domestic dogs.

This study evaluated a recombinant aquaporin 1 protein of Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus (RmAQP1) as antigen in a vaccine against R. sanguineus. Five dogs were immunized with RmAQP1 (10 µg) + adjuvant (Montanide) (G1), and five were inoculated with adjuvant only (G2), three times. Twenty-one days after the last immunization, animals of both groups were challenged with R. sanguineus larvae, nymphs and adults, and their biotic potential was compared. Blood samples were collected before each immunization and every 28 days after the last immunization for 10 weeks. Serum antibody titers (IgG) were assessed by ELISA. We observed that: engorgement period of adult females from G1 was 12% shorter than G2; larvae from G1 had 8.7% longer engorgement period than G2 and weighed 7.2% less; nymphs from G1 had 4.5% shorter engorgement period than G2 and weighed 3.6% less; although the antibody titers increased following the second immunization, they rapidly decreased after the third immunization. Results indicated low immunoprotection of RmAQP1 against adult R. sanguineus ticks, and possible efficacy on larvae and nymphs fed on immunized dogs. Further studies should be performed for a full evaluation of the immunoprotection of RmAQP1 against R. sanguineus infestations in dogs.

[Aplasia cutis congenita associated with epidermolysis bullosa]. / Aplasia cutis congénita asociada a epidermólisis ampollosa.

INTRODUCTION: Aplasia cutis congenita (ACC) is a skin condition of rare presentation, this disease is characterized by absence of skin at birth and associated with facial, skin and bone skull deformities. The diagnosis is mainly clinical. CASE REPORT: Male 5 days after birth, unique product of primigravida mother and no family history of relevance. Physical examination revealed bilateral and symmetrical skin defects of both lower extremities, the disease is characterized by skin fragility, scabs, and coated pseudomembrane ulcers, decreased interdigital space between toes of the left foot, retraction of the foot and genu varum. It was handled with allograft of epidermis cultured in vitro, general wound care and clinical follow-up. DISCUSSION: ACC associated with epidermolysis bullosa is one of the rarer forms of presentation. It is necessary to rule out other skin diseases. Clinical management is recommended with biological or synthetic skin cover, infection prevention, early treatment of complications and clinical follow.

Identification of Leishmania spp. promastigotes in the intestines, ovaries, and salivary glands of Rhipicephalus sanguineus actively infesting dogs.

Sand flies are recognized as the major vector of canine visceral leishmaniasis. However, in some areas of Brazil where sand flies do not occur, this disease is found in humans and dogs. There has been speculation that ticks might play a role in transmission of canine visceral leishmaniasis and the DNA of Leishmania spp. has been reported in whole ticks. We investigated the presence of Leishmania spp. promastigotes in the intestines, ovaries, and salivary glands of Rhipicephalus sanguineus ticks collected from tick-infested dogs in two cities of Brazil. We used 66 dogs that tested positive and 33 that tested negative for Leishmania spp. according to direct cytological examination assays. Ten ticks were collected from each dog and dissected to collect the intestines, ovaries, and salivary glands for immunohistochemistry (IHC) and diagnostic real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). IHC results showed Leishmania spp. in 98, 14, and 8 % of the intestines, ovaries, and salivary glands, respectively. Real-time PCR showed that 89, 41, and 33 % of the tick intestine, ovary, and salivary glands, respectively, were positive for Leishmania spp. The verification of promastigotes of Leishmania spp. by two independent techniques in ticks collected from these urban region dogs showed that there is need for clarification of the role of ticks in the transmission of canine visceral leishmaniasis in Brazil.

Identification of Leishmania spp. promastigotes in the intestines, ovaries, and salivary glands of Rhipicephalus sanguineus actively infesting dogs

Sand flies are recognized as the major vector of canine visceral leishmaniasis. However, in some areas of Brazil where sand flies do not occur, this disease is found in humans and dogs. There has been speculation that ticks might play a role in transmission of canine visceral leishmaniasis and the DNA of Leishmania spp. has been reported in whole ticks. We investigated the presence of Leishmania spp. promastigotes in the intestines, ovaries, and salivary glands of Rhipicephalus sanguineus ticks collected from tick-infested dogs in two cities of Brazil. We used 66 dogs that tested positive and 33 that tested negative for Leishmania spp. according to direct cytological examination assays. Ten ticks were collected from each dog and dissected to collect the intestines, ovaries, and salivary glands for immunohistochemistry (IHC) and diagnostic real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). IHC results showed Leishmania spp. in 98, 14, and 8 % of the intestines, ovaries, and salivary glands, respectively. Real-time PCR showed that 89, 41, and 33 % of the tick intestine, ovary, and salivary glands, respectively, were positive for Leishmania spp. The verification of promastigotes of Leishmania spp. by two independent techniques in ticks collected from these urban region dogs showed that there is need for clarification of the role of ticks in the transmission of canine visceral leishmaniasis in Brazil.

Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus aquaporin as an effective vaccine antigen to protect against cattle tick infestations.

BACKGROUND: Vaccination as a control method against the cattle tick, Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus has been practiced since the introduction of two products in the mid-1990s. There is a need for a vaccine that could provide effective control of R. microplus in a more consistent fashion than existing products. During our transcriptome studies of R. microplus, several gene coding regions were discovered to encode proteins with significant amino acid similarity to aquaporins. METHODS: A cDNA encoding an aquaporin from the cattle tick, Rhipicephalus microplus, was isolated from transcriptomic studies conducted on gut tissues dissected from fully engorged adult female R. microplus. RESULTS: Bioinformatic analysis indicates this aquaporin, designated RmAQP1, shows greatest amino acid similarity to the human aquaporin 7 family. Members of this family of water-conducting channels can also facilitate the transport of glycerol in addition to water. The efficacy of this aquaporin as an antigen against the cattle tick was explored in cattle vaccine trials conducted in Brazil. A cDNA encoding a significant portion of RmAQP1 was expressed as a recombinant protein in Pichia pastoris, purified under native conditions using a polyhistidine C-terminus tag and nickel affinity chromatography, emulsified with Montanide adjuvant, and cattle vaccinated intramuscularly. The recombinant protein provided 75% and 68% efficacy in two cattle pen trials conducted in Campo Grande, Brazil on groups of 6 one year old Holstein calves. CONCLUSION: The effectiveness of this vaccine in reducing the numbers of adult female ticks shows this aquaporin antigen holds promise as an active ingredient in cattle vaccines targeted against infestations of R. microplus.

Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus resistant to acaricides and ivermectin in cattle farms of Mexico.

Ticks and the diseases they transmit cause great economic losses to livestock in tropical countries. Non-chemical control alternatives include the use of resistant cattle breeds, biological control and vaccines. However, the most widely used method is the application of different chemical classes of acaricides and macrocyclic lactones. Populations of the cattle tick, Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus, resistant to organophosphates (OP), synthetic pyrethroids (SP), amitraz and fipronil have been reported in Mexico. Macrocyclic lactones are the most sold antiparasitic drug in the Mexican veterinary market. Ivermectin-resistant populations of R. (B.) microplus have been reported in Brazil, Uruguay and especially in Mexico (Veracruz and Yucatan). Although ivermectin resistance levels in R. (B.) microplus from Mexico were generally low in most cases, some field populations of R. (B.) microplus exhibited high levels of ivermectin resistance. The CHPAT population showed a resistance ratio of 10.23 and 79.6 at lethal concentration of 50% and 99%, respectively. Many field populations of R. (B.) microplus are resistant to multiple classes of antiparasitic drugs, including organophosphates (chlorpyrifos, coumaphos and diazinon), pyrethroids (flumethrin, deltamethrin and cypermethrin), amitraz and ivermectin. This paper reports the current status of the resistance of R. (B.) microplus to acaricides, especially ivermectin, in Mexican cattle.

Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus resistant to acaricides and ivermectin in cattle farms of Mexico / Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus resistentes aos acaricidas e ivermectina nas fazendas de gado do México

Ticks and the diseases they transmit cause great economic losses to livestock in tropical countries. Non-chemical control alternatives include the use of resistant cattle breeds, biological control and vaccines. However, the most widely used method is the application of different chemical classes of acaricides and macrocyclic lactones. Populations of the cattle tick, Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus, resistant to organophosphates (OP), synthetic pyrethroids (SP), amitraz and fipronil have been reported in Mexico. Macrocyclic lactones are the most sold antiparasitic drug in the Mexican veterinary market. Ivermectin-resistant populations of R. (B.) microplus have been reported in Brazil, Uruguay and especially in Mexico (Veracruz and Yucatan). Although ivermectin resistance levels in R. (B.) microplus from Mexico were generally low in most cases, some field populations of R. (B.) microplus exhibited high levels of ivermectin resistance. The CHPAT population showed a resistance ratio of 10.23 and 79.6 at lethal concentration of 50% and 99%, respectively. Many field populations of R. (B.) microplus are resistant to multiple classes of antiparasitic drugs, including organophosphates (chlorpyrifos, coumaphos and diazinon), pyrethroids (flumethrin, deltamethrin and cypermethrin), amitraz and ivermectin. This paper reports the current status of the resistance of R. (B.) microplus to acaricides, especially ivermectin, in Mexican cattle.

Carrapatos e as doenças por eles transmitidas causam grandes perdas econômicas ao gado dos países tropicais. Alternativas não-químicas incluem o uso de raças de gado que sejam resistentes, controle biológico e vacinas. No entanto, o método mais utilizado é a aplicação de diferentes classes químicas de acaricidas e lactonas macrocíclicas. Populações de piolhos de gado, Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus, resistentes aos organofosfatos (OP), piretoides sintéticos (SP), amitraz e fipronil, foram descritas no México. Lactonas macrocíclicas são as drogas antiparasitárias mais vendidas no mercado veterinário mexicano. Populações de R. (B.) microplus resistentes à irvemectina foram relatadas no Brasil, Uruguai e especialmente no México (Veracruz e Yucatan). Embora os níveis de resistência à ivermectina no R. (B.) microplus do México tenha sido relativamente baixa, na maioria dos casos, algumas populações campestres de R. (B.) microplus mostraram altos níveis de resistência à ivermectina. A população CHPAT mostrou uma razão de resistência de 10,23 e 79,6 na concentração letal de 50% e 99%, respectivamente. Muitas populações campestres de R. (B.) microplus são resistentes a múltiplas classes de drogas antiparasitárias, incluindo organofosfatos (clorpirifós, coumafos e diazinon), piretoides (flumetrina, deltametrina e cipermetrina), amitraz e ivermectina. Este artigo relata o estado atual de resistência do R. (B.) microplus aos acaricidas, especialmente ivermectina, no gado mexicano.

Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus resistant to acaricides and ivermectin in cattle farms of Mexico / Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus resistentes aos acaricidas e ivermectina nas fazendas de gado do México

Ticks and the diseases they transmit cause great economic losses to livestock in tropical countries. Non-chemical control alternatives include the use of resistant cattle breeds, biological control and vaccines. However, the most widely used method is the application of different chemical classes of acaricides and macrocyclic lactones. Populations of the cattle tick, Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus, resistant to organophosphates (OP), synthetic pyrethroids (SP), amitraz and fipronil have been reported in Mexico. Macrocyclic lactones are the most sold antiparasitic drug in the Mexican veterinary market. Ivermectin-resistant populations of R. (B.) microplus have been reported in Brazil, Uruguay and especially in Mexico (Veracruz and Yucatan). Although ivermectin resistance levels in R. (B.) microplus from Mexico were generally low in most cases, some field populations of R. (B.) microplus exhibited high levels of ivermectin resistance. The CHPAT population showed a resistance ratio of 10.23 and 79.6 at lethal concentration of 50% and 99%, respectively. Many field populations of R. (B.) microplus are resistant to multiple classes of antiparasitic drugs, including organophosphates (chlorpyrifos, coumaphos and diazinon), pyrethroids (flumethrin, deltamethrin and cypermethrin), amitraz and ivermectin. This paper reports the current status of the resistance of R. (B.) microplus to acaricides, especially ivermectin, in Mexican cattle.

Carrapatos e as doenças por eles transmitidas causam grandes perdas econômicas ao gado dos países tropicais. Alternativas não-químicas incluem o uso de raças de gado que sejam resistentes, controle biológico e vacinas. No entanto, o método mais utilizado é a aplicação de diferentes classes químicas de acaricidas e lactonas macrocíclicas. Populações de piolhos de gado, Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus, resistentes aos organofosfatos (OP), piretoides sintéticos (SP), amitraz e fipronil, foram descritas no México. Lactonas macrocíclicas são as drogas antiparasitárias mais vendidas no mercado veterinário mexicano. Populações de R. (B.) microplus resistentes à irvemectina foram relatadas no Brasil, Uruguai e especialmente no México (Veracruz e Yucatan). Embora os níveis de resistência à ivermectina no R. (B.) microplus do México tenha sido relativamente baixa, na maioria dos casos, algumas populações campestres de R. (B.) microplus mostraram altos níveis de resistência à ivermectina. A população CHPAT mostrou uma razão de resistência de 10,23 e 79,6 na concentração letal de 50% e 99%, respectivamente. Muitas populações campestres de R. (B.) microplus são resistentes a múltiplas classes de drogas antiparasitárias, incluindo organofosfatos (clorpirifós, coumafos e diazinon), piretoides (flumetrina, deltametrina e cipermetrina), amitraz e ivermectina. Este artigo relata o estado atual de resistência do R. (B.) microplus aos acaricidas, especialmente ivermectina, no gado mexicano.

Protective immunity against tick infestation in cattle vaccinated with recombinant trypsin inhibitor of Rhipicephalus microplus.

The cattle tick, Rhipicephalus microplus, is regarded as the most economically important ectoparasite of livestock globally. Control is achieved primarily through the use of acaricides. This approach is hampered by the development of resistance to commercial acaricides among cattle tick populations. Vaccination against R. microplus infestation is another technology that can be integrated for effective cattle tick control. Proteins belonging to the Kunitz-BPTI family are abundant in cattle tick salivary glands, midgut, and ovaries. These organs are attractive targets for the development of a novel cattle tick vaccine. Efficacy assessment against cattle tick infestation in bovines using a vaccine containing the recombinant form of a member of the Kunitz family from R. microplus produced in a yeast expression system is reported for the first time here. The yeast Pichia pastoris was bioengineered to produce the recombinant version of a trypsin inhibitor that is expressed in cattle tick larvae (rRmLTI). Immunization with rRmLTI afforded 32% efficacy against R. microplus. The estimated molecular weight of rRmLTI was 46 kDa. Structural homology to the native form of the larval trypsin inhibitor was documented by recognition of rRmLTI in Western-blots using polyclonal antibodies from mice immunized with cattle tick larval extract or rRmLTI. Bioinformatics analysis of the partial nucleotide and deduced amino acid sequences indicated that the rRmLTI closely resembles BmTI-6, which is a three-headed Kunitz protein present in cattle tick ovary and fat tissue.

Acaricide resistance mechanisms in Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus.

Acaricide resistance has become widespread in countries where cattle ticks, Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus, are a problem. Resistance arises through genetic changes in a cattle tick population that causes modifications to the target site, increased metabolism or sequestration of the acaricide, or reduced ability of the acaricide to penetrate through the outer protective layers of the tick's body. We review the molecular and biochemical mechanisms of acaricide resistance that have been shown to be functional in R. (B.) microplus. From a mechanistic point of view, resistance to pyrethroids has been characterized to a greater degree than any other acaricide class. Although a great deal of research has gone into discovery of the mechanisms that cause organophosphate resistance, very little is defined at the molecular level and organophosphate resistance seems to be maintained through a complex and multifactorial process. The resistance mechanisms for other acaricides are less well understood. The target sites of fipronil and the macrocyclic lactones are known and resistance mechanism studies are in the early stages. The target site of amitraz has not been definitively identified and this is hampering mechanistic studies on this acaricide.