Epidemiological and clinicopathological findings of feline immunodeficiency virus and feline leukemia virus infections in domestic cats from the Brazilian semiarid region.

Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and feline leukemia virus (FeLV) are retroviruses of great importance for domestic cats with a worldwide distribution. A retrospective study was conducted to determine the epidemiological and clinicopathological aspects of the infection by FIV and FeLV in cats from the Brazilian semiarid region. Cats treated between 2011 and 2021 at the teaching veterinary hospital of the Federal Rural University of the Semi-Arid Region that were submitted to a point-of-care (POC) test to detect anti-FIV IgG antibodies and FeLV antigen were enrolled in the study. Overall, 454 cats were selected, of which 30.2% [95% CI = 26.0% - 34.3%] were FIV-positive, 1.1% [95% CI = 0.9% - 1.2%] were FeLV-positive, and 0.7% [95% CI = 0.1% - 1.3%] were coinfected by both retroviruses. No statistical association was found between the studied retroviruses (P = 0.144). Multivariable analysis detected significant associations between FIV infection and male sex [OR = 5.7, 95% CI = 3.0-10.7, P < 0.0001), age between 19 and 78 months [OR = 5.2, 95% CI = 2.2-12.1, P < 0.0001], age greater than 78 months [OR = 12.8, 95% CI = 5.1-31.9, P < 0.0001], crossbreed [OR = 4.1, 95% CI = 1.2-13.4, P = 0.021], the presence of oral disease [OR = 2.1, 95% CI = 1.3-3.4, P = 0.004], reduced red blood cell (RBC) count [OR = 3.7, 95% CI = 1.9-7.2, P < 0.0001], and an albumin:globulin (A:G) ratio lower than 0.6 [OR = 3.4, 95% CI = 1.6-7.1, P = 0.001]. No statistical analyses were performed for FeLV infection due to the low number of positive animals. In the quantitative analyses of hematological parameters, FIV-positive cats presented lower values for RBC, hemoglobin, hematocrit, lymphocytes, and platelets compared to the negative animals. In the biochemical profile, cats infected with FIV showed higher creatinine, urea, total protein, and globulin values, while lower values for albumin and A:G ratio were observed (P < 0.05). The findings of this study characterized the prevalence, clinicopathological findings, and risk factors associated with FIV and FeLV in cats from the Brazilian semiarid region. They may help support veterinary practitioners in diagnosing feline retroviruses. The FIV prevalence observed is among the highest reported in Brazil, demonstrating the need for prevention and control strategies for this retrovirus.

Seroepidemiological Survey of Anti-Toxoplasma gondii and Anti-Neospora caninum Antibodies in Domestic Cats (Felis catus) in Rolim de Moura, State of Rondônia, North Brazil.

Epidemiological studies on infections by Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum in cats in the North Region of Brazil are scarce. We intended to assess the seroprevalence in cats of anti-T. gondii and anti-N. caninum antibodies, as well as the associated risk factors that may lead them to contract these infections in Rolim de Moura, state of Rondônia, North Brazil. For this, blood serum samples of 100 cats from different regions of the city were evaluated. To assess possible factors associated with infections, epidemiological questionnaires were applied to tutors. The Immunofluorescence Antibody Test (IFAT) was performed for anti-T. gondii (cutoff 1:16) and anti-N. caninum (cutoff 1:50) antibodies. After identifying the positive samples, antibody titration was performed. The results showed the prevalence of 26% (26/100) of anti-T. gondii antibodies, with titration varying between 1:16 to 1:8192. There were no factors associated with the prevalence of anti-T. gondii antibodies in the multivariate analysis in this study. There was no occurrence of seropositive cats for anti-N. caninum. It was concluded that there was a high prevalence of anti-T. gondii antibodies in cats in Rolim de Moura, state of Rondônia, North Brazil. However, the evaluated animals did not present anti-N. caninum antibodies. Therefore, knowing that T. gondii has different transmission forms, we emphasize the importance of spreading more information to the population about cat's relevance in the T. gondii life cycle and how to avoid the parasite transmission and proliferation.

Coinfection with Leishmania infantum and Toxoplasma gondii in Domestic Cats from a Region with a High Prevalence of Feline Immunodeficiency Virus.

The aim of this study was to investigate the coinfection of feline retroviruses (feline immunodeficiency virus-FIV, and the feline leukemia virus-FeLV) with Leishmania infantum and Toxoplasma gondii and the factors associated with these pathogens in domestic cats from Mossoró, a city endemic for canine and human leishmaniasis situated in the semiarid region of Northeast Brazil. Blood samples from 120 cats were collected, and an epidemiological questionnaire was applied to investigate the risk factors associated with the infections. Retroviruses, L. infantum, and T. gondii infections were assessed using a point-of-care ELISA and quantitative PCR (qPCR), indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT) and qPCR, and IFAT, respectively. The overall seroprevalences observed were 35% (95% CI = 27.0-43.8%) for FIV, 0.8% (95% CI = 0.1-4.5%) for FeLV, 25.8% (95% CI = 18.8-34.3%) for T. gondii, and 4.2% (95% CI = 1.7-9.3%) for L. infantum. Coinfection with FIV and L. infantum was observed in 2.5% (3/120) of the assessed cats, while 12.5% (15/120) were coinfected with FIV and T. gondii. No significant association was found among the investigated agents (p > 0.05). The factors associated with FIV infection in the multivariable analysis were male sex and age above 78 months. The findings of this study demonstrated a high rate of FIV infection in cats from the Brazilian semiarid region and the exposure of these animals to zoonotic and opportunistic agents. Due to the immunosuppressive potential of FIV, cats infected with this retrovirus should be screened for coinfections with L. infantum and T. gondii, and preventative measures should be adopted.

Prevalence of endoparasites by microscopic analysis in free-range chickens in a Brazilian semiarid region.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence and diversity of endoparasitic fauna and the risk factors associated with parasite infections in free-range chickens in the state of Paraíba, northeastern Brazil. Ten municipalities were visited and, in each of them, ten farms, to collect animal feces and apply epidemiological questionnaires. Feces from 417 poultry were used to perform EPG (eggs per gram) and OoPG (oocysts per gram) tests. Prevalences of 40.52% (169/417) and 39.08% (163/417) were observed for nematodes and coccidia, respectively. In 17% (71/417), mixed infections by nematodes and coccidia were observed. Nematodes of Heterakoidea superfamily were present in 100% of the positive samples (169/169), followed by Trichuris spp. (57.3%; 97/169). All the protozoan oocysts observed belonged to the genus Eimeria (100%; 163/163). The variable of presence of drooping wings was considered to be a factor associated with infection by coccidia (odds ratio = 5.412; confidence interval: 1.179-24.848; p = 0.030). It was concluded that there is high prevalence of nematodes and coccidia in free-range chickens in the state of Paraíba, Brazil. Better sanitary management measures, with greater hygiene of facilities, together with chemical control of parasites, can improve productivity by reducing the rate of gastrointestinal parasites.

Avaliação do perfil dos pacientes e procedimentos realizados por liga cirúrgica acadêmica / Evaluación del perfil de pacientes y procedimientos realizados por una liga quirúrgica académica / Profile assessment of patients and procedures performed by academic surgical league

Esta pesquisa tem como objetivo analisar e relacionar as informações sobre o perfil sociodemográfico, condição de saúde geral dos pacientes e os procedimentos cirúrgicos realizados pela Liga Acadêmica de Cirurgia na Clínica Odontológica da Universidade Federal de Campina Grande. Trata-se de uma pesquisa transversal, descritiva e quantitativa, realizada por meio de uma análise dos prontuários odontológicos no período entre 2016 e 2018. Os dados coletados foram tabulados e a análise estatística foi realizada no software Statistical Package for the Social Sciences. Foram analisados 336 prontuários e o sexo feminino representou 66,4% da amostra. 31,1% dos pacientes não residiam na cidade da Clínica Escola e a utilização de medicamentos foi relatada por 34,8% dos pacientes. Foram contabilizadas 387 exodontias de terceiros molares, representado o procedimento mais realizado. Destas, 75,7% tiveram como causa a remoção profilática. Quanto a classificação dos terceiros molares de acordo com Winter, todos casos encontrados nas posições distoangulado e linguoversão necessitaram de osteotomia e/ ou odontosecção para sua remoção. Em relação a classificação de Pell e Gregory, a posição IA foi a mais encontrada nos elementos 38 e 48, com respectivamente 56,5% e 52,0%. A análise das informações desta pesquisa poderá contribuir no planejamento e qualificação dos serviços oferecidos a comunidade... (AU)

Esta investigación tiene como objetivo analizar y relacionar información sobre el perfil sociodemográfico, el estado general de salud de los pacientes y los procedimientos quirúrgicos realizados por la Liga Académica de Cirugía en la Clínica Odontológica de la Universidad Federal de Campina Grande. Se trata de una investigación transversal, descriptiva y cuantitativa, realizada a través de un análisis de registros odontológicos en el período comprendido entre 2016 y 2018. Los datos recolectados fueron tabulados y el análisis estadístico se realizó mediante el software Statistical Package for the Social Sciences. Se analizaron 336 historias clínicas y el género femenino representó el 66,4% de la muestra. El 31,1% de los pacientes no residía en el municipio de Clínica Escola y el uso de medicamentos fue relatado por el 34,8% de los pacientes. Se contabilizaron un total de 387 extracciones de terceros molares, lo que representa el procedimiento más realizado. De estos, el 75,7% fueron causados por retiro profiláctico. En cuanto a la clasificación de los terceros molares según Winter, todos los casos que se encontraron en las posiciones de distoangulación y linguoversión requirieron osteotomía y/o odontotomía para su remoción. En cuanto a la clasificación de Pell y Gregory, la posición IA fue la más encontrada en los elementos 38 y 48, con 56,5% y 52,0% respectivamente. El análisis de la información de esta investigación puede contribuir a la planificación y calificación de los servicios ofrecidos a la comunidade... (AU)

This study aimed to analyze and relate information about the sociodemographic profile, the patient's general health condition, and the surgical procedures performed by the Academic Surgical League at the dental school of the Federal University of Campina Grande. This is a cross-sectional, descriptive, and quantitative study where dental records in the period between 2016 and 2018 were analyzed. The data were tabulated and the statistical analysis was done using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences software. A total of 336 medical records were analyzed and the female gender represented 66.4% of the sample. 31.1% of the patients did not live in the dental school's city and 34.8% of the patients reported using medication. 387 third molar extractions were realized, representing the most performed procedure. Of these, 75.7% were caused by prophylactic removal. According to Winter classification of third molars, all cases found in the distoangular and lingualversion positions required osteotomy and/or tooth sectioning for their removal. Regarding the classification by Pell and Gregory, position IA was the most found in elements 38 and 48, with 56.5% and 52.0%, respectively. The information analysis from this research can contribute to the planning and qualification of the services offered to the community... (AU)

Prevalence and isolation of Toxoplasma gondii in goats slaughtered for human consumption in the semi-arid of northeastern Brazil.

The aim of this study was to determine the seroprevalence of anti-Toxoplasma gondii antibodies and factors associated with infection in goats, and to isolate protozoan strains in tissue samples from seropositive goats that were destined for human consumption in the state of Paraíba, northeastern Brazil. Serum samples from 229 slaughtered goats were tested using the indirect fluorescence antibody test (IFAT), with a cutoff point of 1:64. Epidemiological questionnaires were applied to the producers, to acquire information about the sanitary management used in their herds. Tissue samples from the animals were collected during slaughter, in order to perform bioassays in mice. The seroprevalence found was 21.39% (49/229), with antibody titers ranging from 1:64 to 1:32,768. The municipalities of origin, Patos (OR: 3.047; CI: 1.384-6.706) and Sousa (OR: 3.355; CI: 1.536-7.327), were considered to be factors associated with infection by T. gondii. Thirty-eight bioassays were performed in mice, using tissues from seropositive goats, with an isolation rate of 50% (19/38). There was no correlation between isolation rate and antibody titers. Only one mouse died, at 30 days post-infection, which demonstrated that the strains isolated had low virulence towards mice. It was concluded that there is high seroprevalence in goats in northeastern Brazil, as well as a high percentage of viable tissue cysts in slaughtered animals destined for human consumption. These results demonstrate that there is an imminent one health problem relating to toxoplasmosis, especially in the most populous municipalities in the study (Patos and Sousa), which were identified as factors associated with T. gondii infection in goats.

Hematological, clinical and epidemiological aspects of Hepatozoon canis infection by parasitological detection in dogs from the rural area of Sousa, Paraíba, Brazil / Aspectos hematológicos, clínicos e epidemiológicos da infecção por Hepatozoon canis por detecção parasitológica em cães da zona rural de Sousa, Paraíba, Brasil

ABSTRACT: Hepatozoonosis is caused by protozoa of the genus Hepatozoon. In dogs, the infection is caused mainly by Hepatozoon canis, and there are a few descriptions of the prevalence of this infection in the Northeast region of Brazil, especially in the semi-arid region. Therefore, we aimed to determine the prevalence of Hepatozoon canis infection in dogs in the rural area of ​​Sousa, Paraíba, Brazil, as well as to determine the possible clinical and epidemiological aspects of this infection. Ninety-eight dogs in the rural zone of the municipality of Sousa that were at least 4 months old were evaluated, regardless of their breed or gender. Clinical examinations were carried out, and samples of systemic and peripheral blood were collected to determine the presence of the parasite in blood smears and carry out hemograms. In addition, epidemiological questionnaires about animal health and food management were completed. The prevalence of H. canis infections in dogs was 8.1% (8/98). There were three main changes in the hematological status: thrombocytopenia, anemia and hyperproteinemia, mainly related to percentage of leukocyte infection ≥5%, and also to the presence of clinical signs such as mucopurulent secretion, lymphadenomegaly, dry skin, pale mucous membranes, and lean or cachectic body score.

RESUMO: A hepatozoonose é causada por protozoários do gênero Hepatozoon. Em cães, a infecção ocorre principalmente por Hepatozoon canis, sendo escassas as descrições de prevalências desta infecção na região Nordeste do Brasil, sobretudo no Semiárido. Com isso, o trabalho objetivou determinar a prevalência da infecção por Hepatozoon canis em cães da zona rural do município de Sousa, Paraíba, Brasil, como também determinar possíveis sinais clínicos e aspectos epidemiológicos relacionados à esta infecção. Foram avaliados 98 cães da zona rural do município de Sousa, independentemente da raça ou sexo, com idade superior a quatro meses. Foram realizados exames clínicos e colhidas amostras de sangue sistêmico e periférico para a pesquisa do parasito em esfregaços sanguíneos e hemogramas. Além disso, foram preenchidos questionários epidemiológicos acerca do manejo sanitário e alimentar dos animais. A prevalência de cães positivos para H. canis foi de 8,1% (8/98). Foram observados três principais alterações no quadro hematológico, sendo trombocitopenia, anemia e hiperproteinemia, principalmente relacionadas ao percentual de leucócitos infectados ≥ 5%, e também à presença de sinais clínicos, como secreção mucopurulenta, linfadenomegalia, pelos ressecados, mucosas hipocoradas e escore corporal magro ou caquético.

Análise da variação da pressão arterial e ansiedade odontológica em cirurgias orais: estudo de caso-controle / Analysis of blood pressure variation and dental anxiety in oral surgeries: case-control study

O objetivo da pesquisa foi investigar fatores de risco à hipertensão de jaleco branco entre pacientes adultos submetidos a cirurgia oral, particularmente a ansiedade odontológica. Trata-se de um estudo de caso- -controle pareado aninhado em estudo transversal realizado na Universidade Federal de Campina Grande e Faculdades Integradas de Patos, Paraíba, Brasil. Os pacientes tiveram suas pressões aferidas e classificadas de acordo com as V Diretrizes Brasileiras de Hipertensão Arterial (2007) e em seguida foram divididos em dois grupos: hipertensos (casos) e normotensos (controles). Os voluntários dos casos (n = 34) e dos controles (n = 136) foram emparelhados (1: 4) por gênero, faixa etária e escolaridade. Os mesmos responderam uma Escala de Ansiedade de Corah. A hipertensão de jaleco branco foi a variável dependente e a ansiedade odontológica foi a variável independente de interesse. A frequência de visitas ao dentista foi analisada como variável confusa. A análise descritiva, a regressão logística condicional bivariada e multivariada foram utilizadas como testes estatísticos com um nível de significância de 5%. Verificou-se que os pacientes ansiosos foram 11.052 vezes mais propensos à elevação da pressão arterial do que aqueles que não relataram ansiedade (IC 95%: 1.778 ­ 8.818). Os pacientes que nunca visitaram o dentista ou que o fizeram havia mais de dois anos tiveram 2,971 vezes mais chance de ter elevação da pressão arterial (IC 95%: 1,36 ­ 4,75). Conclui-se que ansiedade odontológica influencia a elevação da pressão arterial durante as cirurgias orais menores

The aim of this research was to investigate risk factors for white coat hypertension among adult patients undergoing oral surgery, particularly dental anxiety. This is a matched case-control study nested in a cross--sectional study conducted at the Universidade Federal de Campina Grande and Faculdades Integradas de Patos, Paraíba, Brazil. Patients had their blood pressure checked and classified according to the V Brazilian Guidelines for Hypertension (2007) and then divided into two groups: hypertensive (cases) and normotensive (controls). The volunteers of the cases (n = 34) and the controls (n = 136) were matched (1: 4) by gender, age group and schooling. They answered a Corah Anxiety Scale. White coat hypertension was the dependent variable and dental anxiety was the independent variable of interest. The frequency of visits to the dentist was analyzed as a confounding variable. The descriptive analysis, bivariate and multivariate conditional logistic regression were used as statistical tests with a significance level of 5%. It was found that anxious patients were 11,052 times more likely to raise blood pressure than those who did not report anxiety (95% CI: 1,778 - 8,818). Patients who never visited the dentist or who had been dentist for more than two years had 2,971 times more chance of having blood pressure elevation (95% CI: 1.36 - 4.75). It is concluded that dental anxiety influences elevation of blood pressure during minor oral surgeries.

Prevalence and risk factors to Leptospira sp. infection in dogs attended at veterinary clinics in João Pessoa, Paraíba State, Northeastern Brazil / Prevalência e fatores de risco da infecção por Leptospira sp. em cães atendidos em clínicas veterinárias em João Pessoa, Paraíba, Nordeste do Brasil

This study investigated the prevalence and risk factors associated with Leptospira sp. in dogs attended at veterinary clinics in the city of João Pessoa, State of Paraíba, Northeast Brazil. A total of 384 blood samples from dogs from 34 veterinary clinics were used from April 2015 to May 2016. The serological Leptospira sp diagnosis was carried out through Microscopic Agglutination Test (MAT), using a collection of 20 pathogenic antigens and adopting a 1:100 dilution as cutoff point. An epidemiological questionnaire was applied to the animal's owners to obtain the information used in risk factors analysis. The prevalence of seropositive animals was 11.7% (45/384), with reactions for serogroups Icterohaemorrhagiae (62.3%), Grippotyphosa (22.2%), Canicola (13.3%), Djasiman 2%) and Pomona (2.2%). The following risk factors were identified: age from 49 to 72 months (odds ratio = 2.74); Age > 72 months (odds ratio = 3.22); and monthly cleaning of the environment where the animals were kept (odds ratio = 10.70). We concluded that dogs attended at veterinary clinics in João Pessoa are exposed to Leptospira sp infection, with predominance of serogroups kept by wild or synanthropic animals, and suggest a monthly periodic environment cleaning where the animals are kept.(AU)

O presente trabalho investigou a prevalência e os fatores de risco associados à infecção por Leptospira sp. em cães atendidos em clínicas veterinárias da cidade de João Pessoa, Estado da Paraíba, Nordeste do Brasil. Foram utilizadas 384 amostras sanguíneas de cães provenientes de 34 clínicas veterinárias no período de abril de 2015 a maio de 2016. O diagnóstico da infecção por Leptospira sp. foi realizado com o emprego reação de Soroaglutinação Microscópica (SAM), utilizando uma coleção com 20 antígenos patogênicos e adotando como ponto de corte a diluição 1:100. Foi aplicado um questionário epidemiológico aos proprietários dos animais para obtenção de dados a serem utilizados na análise de fatores de risco. A prevalência de animais soropositivos foi de 11,7% (45/384), com reações para os sorogrupos Icterohaemorrhagiae (62,3%), Grippotyphosa (22,2%), Canicola (13,3%), Djasiman (2,2%) e Pomona (2,2%). Foram identificados os seguintes fatores de risco: idade entre 49 e 72 meses (odds ratio = 2,74), idade maior que 72 meses (odds ratio = 3,22), e limpeza mensal do ambiente onde os animais permanecem (odds ratio = 10,70). Conclui-se que cães atendidos em clínicas veterinárias de João Pessoa estão expostos à infecção por Leptospira sp., com predominância de sorogrupos mantidos por animais selvagens, e foi sugerida a realização da limpeza periódica do ambiente ocupado pelos animais.(AU)

Risk factors and anti-Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum antibody occurrence in dogs in João Pessoa, Paraíba state, Northeastern Brazil / Fatores de risco e ocorrência de anticorpos anti-Toxoplasma gondii e Neospora caninum em cães de João Pessoa, Estado da Paraíba, Nordeste do Brasil

Abstract The aim of this study was to determine the occurrence of infections due to Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum and corresponding risk factors among dogs attended at veterinary clinics in the city of João Pessoa, Paraíba, northeastern Brazil. Blood samples were collected from 384 dogs that were attended at 34 veterinary clinics between April 2015 and May 2016. These two agents were diagnosed through the indirect immunofluorescence reaction (IFAT). Among the 384 animals evaluated, 37 (9.6%) were positive for T. gondii, with titers ranging from 16 to 512. Six dogs (1.6%) were positive for N. caninum, with titers of 50 to 200. Access to the streets (OR = 4.60; 95% CI = 1.74-12.20) and environments close to forested areas (OR = 2.79; 95% CI = 1.32-5.93) were found to be risk factors for T. gondii infection. The dogs attended at veterinary clinics in João Pessoa are exposed to infections caused by T. gondii and N. caninum. Dog owners should avoid having access to the street or contact with forest environments.

Resumo O objetivo deste trabalho foi determinar a ocorrência e os fatores de risco das infecções por Toxoplasma gondii e Neospora caninum em cães atendidos em clínicas veterinárias da cidade de João Pessoa, Paraíba, Nordeste do Brasil. Foram colhidas 384 amostras de sangue cães procedentes de atendimento de 34 clínicas veterinárias, no período de abril de 2015 a maio de 2016. O diagnóstico para os dois agentes foi realizado pela reação de imunofluorescência indireta (RIFI). Dos 384 animais avaliados 37 (9,6%) foram positivos para T. gondii com títulos variando de 16 a 512. Para N. caninum seis (1,6%) cães foram positivos com títulos de 50 a 200. Foram constatados como fatores de risco para T. gondii as variáveis acesso à rua (OR = 4,60; IC 95% = 1,74-12,20) e ambiente próximo a matas (OR= 2,79; IC 95% = 1,32-5,93). Os cães atendidos em clínicas veterinárias em João Pessoa estão expostos às infecções por T. gondii e N. caninum. Os proprietários devem evitar o acesso dos animais à rua ou o contato com ambientes florestais.

Risk factors and anti-Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum antibody occurrence in dogs in João Pessoa, Paraíba state, Northeastern Brazil.

The aim of this study was to determine the occurrence of infections due to Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum and corresponding risk factors among dogs attended at veterinary clinics in the city of João Pessoa, Paraíba, northeastern Brazil. Blood samples were collected from 384 dogs that were attended at 34 veterinary clinics between April 2015 and May 2016. These two agents were diagnosed through the indirect immunofluorescence reaction (IFAT). Among the 384 animals evaluated, 37 (9.6%) were positive for T. gondii, with titers ranging from 16 to 512. Six dogs (1.6%) were positive for N. caninum, with titers of 50 to 200. Access to the streets (OR = 4.60; 95% CI = 1.74-12.20) and environments close to forested areas (OR = 2.79; 95% CI = 1.32-5.93) were found to be risk factors for T. gondii infection. The dogs attended at veterinary clinics in João Pessoa are exposed to infections caused by T. gondii and N. caninum. Dog owners should avoid having access to the street or contact with forest environments.

Anti-Toxoplasma gondii antibodies in mammals, birds and reptiles at the zoological-botanical park in João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brazil / Anticorpos anti-Toxoplasma gondii em mamíferos, aves e répteis no parque zoobotânico em João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brasil

The purpose of this study was to verify the occurrence of anti-Toxoplasma gondii antibodies in 51 wild animals at the Arruda Câmara Zoological-Botanical Park in João Pessoa, PB, Brazil. Blood samples from different bird, mammal and reptile species were analyzed using the Modified Agglutination Test (MAT) with a cut-off point of 1:25. Anti-T. gondii antibodies were detected in 62.4% of the 51 tested animals. The following frequencies were found: 68.9% (20/29) in mammals, 80% (8/10) in birds, and 33.3% (4/12) in reptiles. This paper reports for the first time the occurrence of anti-T. gondii antibodies in birds of the species Pionites leucogaster (caíque), Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus (hyacinth macaw), Pavo cristatus (Indian peafowl), Urubitinga urubitinga (Brazilian eagle), and Buteo melanoleucus (black-and-white hawk-eagle). Reptiles of the species Caiman crocodilus (spectacled caiman), Chelonoidis carbonaria (red-footed tortoise) and Paleosuchus palpebrosus (Cuvier's dwarf caiman) were seropositive for T. gondii, although the significance of the presence of these anti-T. gondii antibodies in this group of animals requires a more in-depth study. We conclude that the frequency of antibodies found in the animals of this zoo is high and that the prophylactic measures that aim to diminish the environmental contamination by oocysts are necessary.(AU)

Este trabalho teve como objetivo verificar a ocorrência de anticorpos anti-Toxoplasma gondii em 51 animais silvestres mantidos no Parque Zoobotânico Arruda Câmara, João Pessoa, Brasil. Para isso, foram avaliadas amostras sanguíneas de diferentes espécies de aves, mamíferos e répteis por meio do Teste de Aglutinação Modificado (MAT) com ponto de corte de 1:25. Dos 51 animais testados, 62,4% apresentaram anticorpos anti-T. gondii. Nos mamíferos, a frequência encontrada foi de 68,9% (20/29), em aves foi de 80% (8/10) e em répteis de 33,3% (4/12). Pela primeira vez é relatada a ocorrência de anticorpos anti-T. gondii em aves das espécies Pionites leucogaster (marianinha-de-cabeça-amarela), Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus (arara-azul-grande), Pavo cristatus (pavão), Urubitinga urubitinga (gavião-preto) e Buteo melanoleucus (águia-chilena). Répteis das espécies Caiman crocodilus (jacaretinga), Chelonoidis carbonaria (jabuti) e Paleosuchus palpebrosus (jacaré-anão) foram soropositivos para T. gondii, embora o significado da presença desses anticorpos anti-T. gondii precise ser mais bem estudado nesse grupo de animais. Conclui-se que é alta a frequência de anticorpos encontrados nos animais do zoológico estudado e que medidas profiláticas que visem diminuir a contaminação ambiental por oocistos são necessárias.(AU)

Leptospirosis in native mixed-breed sheep slaughtered in a semiarid region of Brazil / Leptospirose em ovinos mestiços abatidos em uma região semiárida do Brasil

ABSTRACT: Sheep breeding is an economic activity of great value for the Brazilian livestock industry, and infectious diseases can significantly compromise its productivity. The aim of this study was to detect Leptospira spp. in mixed breed sheep from a semiarid region of the State of Paraíba, Northeast Brazil. In total, 49 blood and renal tissue samples, as well as 25 urine samples, were collected from 49 sheep in the slaughter line. The microscopic agglutination test (MAT) was used to verify the presence of anti -Leptospira spp. antibodies in blood samples. Renal tissue and urine samples were analyzed by both PCR and bacterial culture. Sero reactivity was observed in 8.2% (4/49) of animals. Three renal samples were positive for leptospiral DNA by PCR although all urine samples were negative. No leptospires in pure culture were recovered from the samples tested. Low prevalence of Leptospira spp. observed by serology and PCR suggested that the rusticity of the mixed-breed sheep may have contributed to the low occurrence of leptospirosis in the semiarid region investigated.

RESUMO: A criação de ovinos é uma atividade econômica de grande valor para a indústria pecuária brasileira. As doenças infecciosas podem comprometer significativamente a sua produtividade. O objetivo deste estudo foi detectar Leptospira spp. em ovinos sem raça definida a partir de uma região semiárida do estado da Paraíba, Nordeste do Brasil. Quarenta e nove amostras de sangue e tecido renal, bem como amostras de urina, de 25 das 49 ovelhas, foram coletados na linha de abate. A presença de anticorpos anti -Leptospira spp. foi verificada com o teste de aglutinação microscópica (SAM). As amostras de urina e rins foram processadas por PCR e cultura bacteriológica. Sororreatividade foi observada em 8,2% (4/49) dos animais. Em relação à PCR, três amostras renais foram positivas, no entanto, todas as amostras de urina foram negativas. Nenhuma cultura pura de leptospiras foi recuperada a partir das amostras testadas. Levando em consideração a baixa frequência de positividade na sorologia e PCR, é possível sugerir que a rusticidade das ovelhas de raças mestiças colaborou para a baixa ocorrência de leptospirose na região semiárida investigada.

Risk factors for Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum seropositivity in buffaloes in Paraiba State, Brazil.

The aims of this survey were to determine the frequency of anti-Toxoplasma gondii and anti-Neospora caninum antibodies and to identify the risk factors associated with seropositivity among buffaloes in the state of Paraíba, Brazil. This survey included 136 buffaloes belonging to 14 herds. To detect anti-T. gondii and anti-N. caninum antibodies, the indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT) was used. Among the 136 samples analyzed, 17 (12.5%) were positive for anti-T. gondii antibodies with titers ranging from 64 to 1,024, and 26 (19.1%) for anti-N. caninum with titers from 200 to 1,600. Animals seropositive for both T. gondii and N. caninum were found in 10 of the 14 herds (71.4%). Semi-intensive management systems (odds ratio = 2.99) and presence of pigs (odds ratio = 4.33) were identified as risk factors for T. gondii and N. caninum, respectively. It can be suggested that T. gondii and N. caninum are widespread in buffaloes in Paraíba, and that additional surveys are needed in order to ascertain the importance of these agents for this species and for pigs, and the influence of the farming type on occurrences of seropositive animals.

Risk factors for Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum seropositivity in buffaloes in Paraiba State, Brazil / Fatores de risco associados à soropositividade para Toxoplasma gondii e Neospora caninum em búfalos no Estado da Paraíba, Nordeste do Brasil

The aims of this survey were to determine the frequency of anti-Toxoplasma gondii and anti-Neospora caninum antibodies and to identify the risk factors associated with seropositivity among buffaloes in the state of Paraíba, Brazil. This survey included 136 buffaloes belonging to 14 herds. To detect anti-T. gondii and anti-N. caninum antibodies, the indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT) was used. Among the 136 samples analyzed, 17 (12.5%) were positive for anti-T. gondii antibodies with titers ranging from 64 to 1,024, and 26 (19.1%) for anti-N. caninum with titers from 200 to 1,600. Animals seropositive for both T. gondii and N. caninum were found in 10 of the 14 herds (71.4%). Semi-intensive management systems (odds ratio = 2.99) and presence of pigs (odds ratio = 4.33) were identified as risk factors for T. gondii and N. caninum, respectively. It can be suggested that T. gondii and N. caninum are widespread in buffaloes in Paraíba, and that additional surveys are needed in order to ascertain the importance of these agents for this species and for pigs, and the influence of the farming type on occurrences of seropositive animals.

Os objetivos deste trabalho foram determinar a frequência de anticorpos anti-Toxoplasma gondii e anti-Neospora caninum e identificar os fatores de risco associados com as soropositividades em búfalos do Estado da Paraíba, Brasil. Foram utilizados 136 búfalos oriundos de 14 propriedades. Para a detecção de anticorpos anti-T. gondii e anti-N. caninum, foi empregada a reação de imunofluorescência indireta (RIFI). Das 136 amostras analisadas, 17 (12,5%) foram positivas para anticorpos anti-T. gondii, com títulos variando de 64 a 1.024; e 26 (19,1%) para anticorpos anti-N. caninum, com títulos de 200 a 1.600. Das 14 propriedades, em 10 (71,4%) houve animais soropositivos tanto para T. gondii como para N. caninum. O manejo semi-intensivo (odds ratio = 2,99) e a presença de suínos (odds ratio = 4,33) foram identificados como fatores de risco para T. gondii e N. caninum, respectivamente. Sugere-se que T. gondii e N. caninum estão disseminados em búfalos do Estado da Paraíba, bem como a necessidade de mais estudos acerca da importância desses agentes nessa espécie e em suínos, e da influência do tipo de criação na ocorrência de animais soropositivos.