Factors affecting occurrence of demodecosis by Demodex bovis in Sindhi cattle (Bos indicus).

The objective was to evaluate the factors affecting the occurrence of bovine demodecosis from the clinical aspects of injuries, blood profile, and the correlation with weight gain and the season of the year in Sindhi-breed animal management in a tropical environment. Thirty-three Sindhi-breed animals were used: 23 females and 10 males. Clinical examination diagnosed that 90% of the examined animals presented skin lesions characteristic of bovine demodecosis caused by Demodex bovis (P < 0.05). The Sindhi presented a higher fecal parasite egg count and showed a lower body weight gain in the rainy season and a greater weight loss in the drought season (P < 0.05), medium injury predominating, with no effect of sex (P > 0.05). During the drought season, animals clinically infected with bovine demodecosis presented lower red blood cell and platelet counts and total plasma protein, and higher mean corpuscular volume and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, a blood count typical of regenerative macrocytic anemia (P < 0.05). During the rainy season of the year (April to June), the animals showed greater weight gain, but a higher fecal parasite egg count with no effect on the incidence of bovine demodecosis. Infection by gastrointestinal nematodes negatively influenced body weight gain and demodecosis in the animals.

First report of typical Brazilian Toxoplasma gondii genotypes from isolates of free-range chickens (Gallus gallus domesticus) circulating in the state of Paraíba, Northeast Brazil.

This study evaluated, for the first time, the genetic diversity of Toxoplasma gondii isolates from free-range chickens from the state of Paraíba, Northeast Brazil. Tissue samples from 33 chickens from properties in five municipalities of Paraíba (Esperança, Olho d'Água, Malta, Monteiro, and Patos) were bioassayed in mice. The brains of mice infected with T. gondii cysts were used for DNA extraction and genotyping. Genotyping was performed using 11 PCR-RFLP markers and 15 microsatellite (MS) markers. Complete genotyping results were obtained for 29 isolates, with nine genotypes detected by RFLP and 15 genotypes identified by MS. Three genotypes (#273, #274, and #277) have only been recently identified from pigs in the region. Brazilian clonal types BrII and BrIII were identified from one isolate each. Clonal types I, II, and III were not detected by RFLP. Genotype #13 (Caribbean 1), detected in 48.3% (14/29) of isolates from four of the five municipalities investigated, was the most prevalent genotype in the state of Paraíba. However, the MS analysis showed that of these 14 isolates, only four were unique genotypes, and considering the distance between the municipalities from where they were collected, it is possible that only seven are independent isolates while the others are clones. The other genotypes were restricted to different microregions. The results indicate that the Caribbean 1 lineage of T. gondii is circulating widely in Northeast Brazil. The genotypic diversity of T. gondii in the state of Paraíba is high, and microsatellite analysis revealed this diversity with higher resolution than PCR-RFLP.

First study on seroepidemiology and isolation of Toxoplasma gondii in free-range chickens in the semi-arid region of Paraíba state, Brazil.

The aim of this study was to investigate the seroprevalence and isolation of Toxoplasma gondii in free-range chickens in the state of Paraíba, northeastern Brazil. For this, blood samples were collected from 483 chickens in five municipalities in the state of Paraíba. The indirect immunofluorescence assay for anti-T. gondii antibodies was performed. The seropositive birds were slaughtered, and their brains and hearts were collected in order to perform a bioassay in mice. An epidemiological questionnaire was applied on the smallholdings visited, and univariable and multivariable logistic regressions were used to evaluate risk factors. The prevalence of chickens seropositive for T. gondii was found to be 31.5 % (152/483), and 86.1 % (56/65) of the smallholdings were positive. Among the 71 chickens subjected to bioassaying in mice, isolates of T. gondii were obtained from 33 (46.5 %). The isolates were named TgCkBrPB1 to 33. It was observed that the higher the chickens' antibody titer was, the greater the chance of isolating the parasite also was. Sixteen of the 33 isolates (48.5 %) were lethal for all the mice inoculated until 30 days post-inoculation. The risk factors for infection with T. gondii among these free-range chickens were extensive and semi-extensive rearing systems, smallholdings located in urban areas, and presence of cats. The results indicate that the prevalence of T. gondii among chickens in the state of Paraíba is high. Many parasites remained viable in the tissues of the birds studied, and presence of the protozoan was directly related to the management of these birds.

Prevalence and risk factors associated with goat gastrointestinal helminthiasis in the Sertão region of Paraíba State, Brazil.

Gastrointestinal helminthiasis represents an obstacle to goat raising, causing severe damage to herds such as growth retardation, weight loss, and even death. In this study, we aimed to determine the prevalence and risk factors associated to goat gastrointestinal helminthiasis in the Sertão region of Paraíba State, Brazil. A total of 256 goats from 54 farms were systematically sampled. Blood and fecal samples were collected from each animal for egg per gram (EPG), larval culture, and packed cell volume (PCV) analyses. We found that 79.3% of the goats investigated were parasitized with gastrointestinal helminths. Significant correlation (p = 0.004) was observed between the EPG and PCV of the animals studied, and it was observed that the EPG increases as the PCV decreases. In the larval culture, the most prevalent helminth was Haemonchus sp. (83.2%). Age and sex were significant variables (p ≤ 0.20) for the development of gastrointestinal helminths: 86.8% of animals over 36 months of age and 81.7% of females were infected. The variable type of animal exploitation was also significant, with 90.3% (p ≤ 0.20) of the animals presenting double suitability (milk and meat). The Sertão region of Paraíba State presents high prevalence of gastrointestinal helminthiasis in goats, and age and type of animal exploitation are the most relevant risk factors to the development of these parasites.

Efficacy of Monacrosporium thaumasium in the control of goat gastrointestinal helminthiasis in a semi-arid region of Brazil.

The aim of the present study was to test a pellet formulation of Monacrosporium thaumasium in a sodium alginate matrix in the biological control of goat gastrointestinal helminthiasis in a semi-arid region of northeastern Brazil. An area of 2.4 ha was divided into three paddocks, with seven goats kept on each paddock, during the months of March to August 2011: group 1 received 3 g/10 kg live weight of M. thaumasium pellets (NF34a) twice a week; group 2 was given 0.2 mg/kg of 0.2 % moxidectin orally every 30 days; and group 3 received 3 g/10 kg live weight of pellets without fungus twice per week. Each month, two tracer goats was placed in each group for 30 days and then killed and necropsied. The M. thaumasium group showed a 34 % reduction in eggs per gram, higher packed cell volume rates and a lower parasitic load in the tracers compared with the other groups. The 0.2 % moxidectin group had weight gain of 5.7 kg; the M. thaumasium group, 3.6 kg; and the control group had an average reduction in weight of 1.1 kg. The use of M. thaumasium pellets may be effective as an alternative method to control goat gastrointestinal helminthiasis in the semi-arid region of northeastern Brazil.

Anthelmintic efficacy of pumpkin seed (Cucurbita pepo Linnaeus, 1753) on ostrich gastrointestinal nematodes in a semiarid region of Paraíba State, Brazil.

The aim of this study was to verify the in vivo effectiveness of pumpkin seed (Curcubita pepo Linnaeus, 1753) in naturally infected ostriches in the Cariri zone, semiarid region of Paraíba State, Brazil. Forty-eight ostriches were used, African Black breed, of 14 to 36 months old, naturally infected by gastrointestinal nematodes. These animals were divided into four groups of 12 ostriches. Group 1 consists of animals treated with 0.5 g/kg live weight (l. w.) of pumpkin seed meal; group 2 received 1 g/kg l. w. of pumpkin seed meal; group 3 was treated with Albendazole 5 %, at the dosage of 1 mL/10 kg l. w.; and Group 4 was the control group and do not received treatment. Groups 1 and 2 received the treatment for three consecutive days, orally, at intervals of 7 days, totaling nine administrations. The Albendazole 5 % was administered one time, at the beginning of the experiment, according to the manufacturer's recommendations. The groups treated with pumpkin seed showed a significant decrease in egg counts per gram of feces (EPG), wherein group 2 (1 g/kg l. w.) was the most effective. The control and drug groups showed no reduction in EPG. The results of the present study demonstrate that the administration of pumpkin seed was effective in controlling gastrointestinal helminths in naturally infected ostriches.

Resistance of bovine gastrointestinal nematodes to four classes of anthelmintics in the semiarid region of Paraíba state, Brazil.

The effectiveness of four anthelmintic classes on cattle gastrointestinal nematodes in the semi-arid region of Paraiba State, Brazil, was evaluated. Twenty farms were used, testing 40 animals in each one, totaling 800 animals. Cattle were divided into four groups composed with ten animals: I, treated with albendazole sulfoxide 15%; II, treated with ivermectin 1%; III, treated with closantel 25%; IV, treated with levamisole hydrochloride 7.5%. All treatments were administered subcutaneously. For the Fecal Egg Count Reduction Test (FECRT), individual fecal samples were collected on days 0 and 14, and sent for analysis of egg count per gram of feces (EPG) and larval cultures. It was observed that multiresistance was present in 95% (19/20) of the farms. Resistance to ivermectin and albendazole was observed in 95% (19/20), to closantel in 75% (15/20) and to levamisole in 20% (4/20). The most used management system was semi-intensive (75%; 15/20) and the ivermectin was the most reported drug for controlling helminths (65%; 13/20). Haemonchus spp. was the most prevalent helminth genus. It was concluded that the anthelmintic resistance of bovine gastrointestinal nematodes is high in the semi-arid of Paraíba State, Brazil, with multiresistance observed mainly to ivermectin, albendazole and closantel.

In vitro study of Vitex gardneriana schauer toxicity on Artemia salina and its effect on eggs and larvae of Haemonchus contortus

This research aimed to investigate the toxic action of Vitex gardneriana on microcrustacean Artemia salina by using hydroalcoholic extract from leaves (EHF) and acute toxicity test (CL50) concentrations of 100, 500, 1.000, 10.000, 20.000, and 50.000/mL. Sodium hypochlorite (NaClO) at 1% was used as positive control, and saline and 1% DMSO were used as negative control. Vitex gardneriana showed low toxic potential, with 50% mortality in the microcrustacean metanauplii population (concentration: 34.600 mg/mL). A. salina is a seawater microcrustacean widely used in bioassays for determining the toxic dose of bioactive substances because of its low costs and its related simple, aseptic procedures. To determine the toxic action of the hydroalcoholic extract of V. Gardneriana on eggs and larvae of Haemonchus contortus, 2,5mL of EHF with a concentration of 34,600 mg/mL were added into single-species nematode fecal cultures containing approximately 12.000 eggs. Only 26,6% of the eggs hatched, corresponding to an EHF efÀ ciency of 73,3%, whereas the hatchability was 50% in control, with 6.000 larvae recovered. The À ndings show the potential of this plant as an alternative in parasite control.(AU)

Prevalence and risk factors for Cysticercus tenuicollis in goats and sheep in Paraíba, northeastern Brazil.

This study aimed to determine the prevalence and risk factors for C. tenuicollis among goats and sheep in slaughterhouses in Paraíba. 390 animals (195 goats and 195 sheep) in the municipalities of Patos and Esperança, Paraíba, Brazil, were inspected between February and May 2014. The prevalence of C. tenuicollis was 39% (76/195) in goats and 17.4% (34/195) in sheep. In both species, most of the cysticerci vesicles were located at the omentum and mesentery. The only risk factor found was extensive sheep farming. It can be concluded that C. tenuicollis is highly prevalent in small ruminants in Paraíba, being more prevalent in goats than in sheep. Extensively-reared sheep were twice as likely to develop infection by this parasite.

Anthelmintic activity of the ethanol extract of the Uncaria guianensis (Rubiaceae) on eggs and larvae of gastrointestinal nematodes of sheep in the Western Amazon Region / Atividade anti-helmíntica do extrato de etanol de Uncaria guianensis (Rubiaceae) em ovos e larvas de nematoides gastrintestinais de ovinos na região da Amazônia Ocidental

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the anthelmintic effect of the root and stem of Uncaria guianensis on eggs and larvae of gastrointestinal nematodes from naturally infected sheep. The extracts of the root and stem of Uncaria guianensis were applied in different concentrations. The animals were divided into groups of five animals each, where each group received an extract of the plant and a dose / concentration. Ten ml was applied orally on treatment days, in a single dose. Stool samples were collected weekly for parasitological analysis and blood for hematocrit. Regarding the percentage of reduction in the number of eggs per gram of feces, they were found only in the group treated with Uncaria guianensis root at a concentration of 1.14mg / ml and in the chemically treated group, where they obtained a statistically significant reduction , when compared to the other treated groups, presenting 69% and 66% respectively in the reduction percentage. Regarding the number of third stage larvae of gastrointestinal nematodes recovered from sheep, after treatment with Uncaria guianensis observed that the groups treated with closantel, Uncaria guianensis root at a concentration of 1.14mg / ml and the stem of Uncaria guianensis at a concentration of 1.25mg / ml were statistically different  from the other treatments, presenting 68%, 68 % and 86%

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o efeito anti-helmíntico da raiz e do caule de Uncaria guianensis sobre ovos e larvas de nematóides gastrointestinais de ovelhas naturalmente infectadas. O extrato da raiz de Uncaria guianensis foi testado nas concentrações de 0,57mg / mL e 1,14mg / mL e o extrato do caule de Uncaria guianensis nas concentrações de 1,25mg / mL e 2,5mg / mL. Os animais foram divididos em grupos de cinco animais cada, onde quatro grupos receberam o extrato vegetal e uma dose / concentração, um grupo recebeu o anti-helmíntico closantel e outro grupo recebeu apenas água destilada, totalizando seis grupos tratados. Foram aplicados dez mL por via oral nos dias de tratamento, em dose única para os grupos tratados com o extrato, o grupo closantel recebeu a dose preconizada pelo fabricante e o grupo negativo recebeu 10 mL de água destilada. Amostras de fezes foram coletadas semanalmente para análise parasitoló-gica e sangue para hematócrito. Os resultados do OPG foram analisados após transformação logarítmica (x + 1) e submetidos à análise de variância unilateral (ANOVA) e teste de Tukey a 5% de probabilidade. As larvas L3 de terceiro estágio foram recuperadas da co-cultura e submetidas ao teste de tukey a 5%.

Anthelmintic activity of the ethanol extract of the Uncaria guianensis (Rubiaceae) on eggs and larvae of gastrointestinal nematodes of sheep in the Western Amazon Region / Atividade anti-helmíntica do extrato de etanol de Uncaria guianensis (Rubiaceae) em ovos e larvas de nematoides gastrintestinais de ovinos na região da Amazônia Ocidental

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the anthelmintic effect of the root and stem of Uncaria guianensis on eggs and larvae of gastrointestinal nematodes from naturally infected sheep. The extracts of the root and stem of Uncaria guianensis were applied in different concentrations. The animals were divided into groups of five animals each, where each group received an extract of the plant and a dose / concentration. Ten ml was applied orally on treatment days, in a single dose. Stool samples were collected weekly for parasitological analysis and blood for hematocrit. Regarding the percentage of reduction in the number of eggs per gram of feces, they were found only in the group treated with Uncaria guianensis root at a concentration of 1.14mg / ml and in the chemically treated group, where they obtained a statistically significant reduction , when compared to the other treated groups, presenting 69% and 66% respectively in the reduction percentage. Regarding the number of third stage larvae of gastrointestinal nematodes recovered from sheep, after treatment with Uncaria guianensis observed that the groups treated with closantel, Uncaria guianensis root at a concentration of 1.14mg / ml and the stem of Uncaria guianensis at a concentration of 1.25mg / ml were statistically different  from the other treatments, presenting 68%, 68 % and 86%(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o efeito anti-helmíntico da raiz e do caule de Uncaria guianensis sobre ovos e larvas de nematóides gastrointestinais de ovelhas naturalmente infectadas. O extrato da raiz de Uncaria guianensis foi testado nas concentrações de 0,57mg / mL e 1,14mg / mL e o extrato do caule de Uncaria guianensis nas concentrações de 1,25mg / mL e 2,5mg / mL. Os animais foram divididos em grupos de cinco animais cada, onde quatro grupos receberam o extrato vegetal e uma dose / concentração, um grupo recebeu o anti-helmíntico closantel e outro grupo recebeu apenas água destilada, totalizando seis grupos tratados. Foram aplicados dez mL por via oral nos dias de tratamento, em dose única para os grupos tratados com o extrato, o grupo closantel recebeu a dose preconizada pelo fabricante e o grupo negativo recebeu 10 mL de água destilada. Amostras de fezes foram coletadas semanalmente para análise parasitoló-gica e sangue para hematócrito. Os resultados do OPG foram analisados após transformação logarítmica (x + 1) e submetidos à análise de variância unilateral (ANOVA) e teste de Tukey a 5% de probabilidade. As larvas L3 de terceiro estágio foram recuperadas da co-cultura e submetidas ao teste de tukey a 5%.(AU)

Coadministration of nematophagous fungi for biological control over gastrointestinal helminths in sheep in the semiarid region of northeastern Brazil.

This study aimed to evaluate coadministration of Duddingtonia flagrans and Monacrosporium thaumasium in a sodium alginate matrix for controlling gastrointestinal helminths in young and adult sheep in the semiarid region of northeastern Brazil. An area of 1ha was divided into two paddocks, in which two experimental groups (fungus and control) were formed, each consisting of six adult females and ten young males. In each group, two subgroups were formed in accordance with the animal category (adult or young). In the fungus group, each animal received 3g of pellets containing 0.6g of fungal mycelium, with 0.3g of D. flagrans and 0.3g of M. thaumasium for each 10 kg of body weight, in their feed twice a week, for six months. In the control group, each animal received 3g of pellets without fungus for each 10 kg of body weight, in their feed twice a week, for six months, serving as a witness group. Reductions in numbers of eggs per gram of feces of 76% among the adult sheep in the fungus group and 83% among the young sheep in the fungus group were observed, in comparison with their respective control subgroups. The groups that received these fungi needed less salvage deworming and presented better packed cell volume percentages, better weight gain and lower levels of L3/kg dry matter in their paddock than the control groups. Thus, it was concluded that coadministration of D. flagrans and M. thaumasium was effective in controlling gastrointestinal helminths of adults and young sheep in the semiarid region of northeastern Brazil.

Effects of purge potato (operculina macrocarpa) in multinutritional blocks on sheep naturally infected with gastrointestinal helminth

Objetivo desse estudo foi avaliar os efeitos da batata de purga (O. macrocarpa) oferecida em blocos multinutricionais sobre ovinos naturalmente infectados por helmintos gastrintestinais. O trabalho foi desenvolvido de acordo com um delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com quatro tratamentos e seis repetições de um animal. Os tratamentos foram: T1 = apenas BMs; T2 = BMs + batata de purga (1g/Kg/peso vivo); T3 = BMs + batata de purga (0,5g/Kg/pv) e T4 = BMs + anti-helmíntico químico. Nos tratamentos com batata de purga 1g/Kg/pv, 0,5g/Kg/pv e químico o OPG diminuiu aos sete dias com 767, 516, 267 e eficácia de 53, 68, e 84% respectivamente. Os valores médios das hemácias, hemoglobina, hematócrito e leucócitos foram menores para o tratamento apenas com BMs, porém se mantiveram dentro dos valores de referência. Para globulina, proteínas totais, creatinina os valores médios ficaram discretamente abaixo da referência para ovinos. Conclui-se que a O. macrocarpa adicionada aos blocos multinutricionais nas doses e período estudado não provocaram respostas fisiorgânicas características de toxicidade.

This study evaluates the effects of purge potato (Operculina macrocarpa) in multi-nutritional blocks (MBs) on sheep naturally infected with gastrointestinal helminths. The experimental design was completely randomized, with four treatments and six replicates per animal. Treatments were: T1 = only MBs; T2 = MBs + purge potato (1g/Kg/lw); T3 = MBs + purge potato (0.5/Kg/lw); and T4 = MBs + chemical anthelmintic. In the treatments with 1g/Kg/lw and 0.5g/Kg/lw purge potato and with chemical anthelmintic, eggs per gram (EPG) counts decreased to 767, 516, and 267 at seven days, with an effectiveness of 53, 68, and 84%, respectively. The mean values of red blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and leukocytes were lower for the treatment with only MBs; however, they were maintained within the reference values. For globulin, total protein, and creatinine, the mean values were discretely below the reference for sheep. It is concluded that adding O. macrocarpa to the multi-nutritional blocks in the studied doses and period did not cause physiological responses characteristic of toxicity.

Resistance of bovine gastrointestinal nematodes to four classes of anthelmintics in the semiarid region of Paraíba state, Brazil / Resistência de nematódeos gastrintestinais de bovinos à quatro classes de anti-helmínticos no semiárido do Estado da Paraíba, Brasil

Abstract The effectiveness of four anthelmintic classes on cattle gastrointestinal nematodes in the semi-arid region of Paraiba State, Brazil, was evaluated. Twenty farms were used, testing 40 animals in each one, totaling 800 animals. Cattle were divided into four groups composed with ten animals: I, treated with albendazole sulfoxide 15%; II, treated with ivermectin 1%; III, treated with closantel 25%; IV, treated with levamisole hydrochloride 7.5%. All treatments were administered subcutaneously. For the Fecal Egg Count Reduction Test (FECRT), individual fecal samples were collected on days 0 and 14, and sent for analysis of egg count per gram of feces (EPG) and larval cultures. It was observed that multiresistance was present in 95% (19/20) of the farms. Resistance to ivermectin and albendazole was observed in 95% (19/20), to closantel in 75% (15/20) and to levamisole in 20% (4/20). The most used management system was semi-intensive (75%; 15/20) and the ivermectin was the most reported drug for controlling helminths (65%; 13/20). Haemonchus spp. was the most prevalent helminth genus. It was concluded that the anthelmintic resistance of bovine gastrointestinal nematodes is high in the semi-arid of Paraíba State, Brazil, with multiresistance observed mainly to ivermectin, albendazole and closantel.

Resumo Avaliou-se a eficácia de quatro classes de anti-helmínticos sobre nematódeos gastrintestinais de bovinos na região semiárida da Paraíba, Brasil. Foram utilizadas 20 fazendas, sendo testados 40 animais em cada uma, totalizando 800 animais. Os bovinos foram distribuídos em quatro grupos compostos por dez animais: I, tratado com sulfóxido de albendazol 15%; II, tratado com ivermectina 1%; III, tratado com closantel 25%; IV, tratado com cloridrato de levamisole 7,5%. Para o Teste de Redução da Contagem de Ovos Fecais (TRCOF), amostras fecais individuais foram coletadas nos dias 0 e 14 e enviadas para análises de contagem de ovos por grama de fezes (OPG) e coproculturas. Observou-se que a multirressistência estava presente em 95% (19/20) das fazendas. Foi observada resistência à ivermectina e ao albendazol, em 95% das fazendas (19/20); ao closantel, em 75% (15/20) e, ao levamisole, em 20% (4/20). O sistema de manejo mais utilizado foi o semi-intensivo (75%; 15/20) e a ivermectina foi o fármaco mais relatado para controle de verminose (65%; 13/20). O gênero de helminto mais prevalente foi Haemonchus spp. (76,7%). Conclui-se que é alta a resistência anti-helmíntica por nematódeos gastrintestinais de bovinos no Semiárido da Paraíba, Brasil, com multirressistência observada principalmente à ivermectina, ao albendazol e ao closantel.

Anthelmintic activity of the ethanolic extract of Carapa guianensis (Meliaceae) on gastrointestinal nematodes of sheep in the Western Amazon / Atividade anti-helmíntica do extrato etanólico de Carapa guianensis (Meliaceae) em nematóides gastrointestinais de ovinos da Amazônia Ocidental

The present study aimed to evaluate the anthelmintic effect of Carapa guianensis (andiroba) on gastrointestinal nematodes in sheep naturally infected in the Western Amazon. Toxicity tests with Artemia salina identified that the ethanolic extracts of the root and stem of andiroba showed an LC50% equal to 530 µg ml-1 and 170 µg ml-1, respectively. As concentrations 1.06mg / ml (andiroba root) and 0.34mg ml-1 (andiroba stem) were tested in groups of crossbred sheep, eaten from four to six months and weighing approximately 19.9 kg naturally infected by gastrintestinal nematodes. In addition, there will be a total of two treated groups and two control groups (negative and positive - 7.5% closantel). Foram extracts applied orally in a single treatment days 1,2,3,4,15,16,17,18. Or treatment lasted 30 days. Samples of fezes and blood foram collected at intervals of seven and 15 days respectively to assess the parasitic and hematological profile. The results showed a reduction in parasitic load of 86% and 59%, respectively, for the root and stem of andiroba in egg count per gram of feces, while in the group treated with closantel 7.5% the reduction was 66%. Regarding the number of third stage larvae recovered from sheep after treatment, it was observed that the groups treated with andiroba root and stem differed (p < 0.05) from the control group, with a reduction in the percentage of larvae from 70 and 55%, respectively. The phytochemical tests in the present study revealed the presence of bioactive metabolites that may be responsible for the anthelmintic activity. As for the hematocrit, there was no statistical difference in its values in the groups treated with andiroba root and stem, that is, in some way there was interference on the adult forms of the nematodes that compromised the hematophagism. Therefore, the extract of Carapa guianensis has anthelmintic potential, being a good alternative in the control of sheep endoparasitosis.(AU)

Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar o efeito anti-helmíntico da Carapa guianensis (andiroba) sobre nematóides gastrointestinais em ovinos naturalmente infectados na Amazônia Ocidental. Ensaios de toxicidade com Artemia salina identificaram que os extratos etanólicos da raiz e caule da andiroba apresentaram uma CL50% igual a 530 µg ml-1 e 170 µg ml-1, respectivamente. As concentrações 1,06mg/ ml (raiz de andiroba) e 0,34mg ml-1(caule de andiroba) foram testadas em grupos de ovinos mestiços, com idade média de quatro a seis meses e peso de aproximadamente de 19,9 kg naturalmente infectados por nematódeos gastrintestinais. Assim totalizaram dois grupos tratados e dois grupos controles (negativo e positivo - closantel 7,5%). Os extratos foram aplicados oralmente em dose única nos dias 1,2,3,4, 15,16,17,18 de tratamento. O tratamento durou 30 dias. Amostras de fezes e sangue foram coletados nos intervalos de sete e 15 dias respectivamente para avaliar o perfil parasitário e hematológico. Os resultados demonstraram uma redução da carga parasitária de 86% e 59%, respectivamente, para a raiz e caule da andiroba na contagem de ovos por grama de fezes, enquanto no grupo tratado com closantel 7,5 % a redução foi de 66%. Com relação ao número de larvas de terceiro estágio recuperados de ovinos após o tratamento, observou-se que os grupos tratados com raiz e caule de andiroba diferiram (p < 0,05) do grupo controle, com uma redução na porcentagem de larvas de 70 e 55%, respectivamente. Os testes fitoquímicos deste estudo revelaram a presença de metabólitos bioativos que podem ser responsáveis pela atividade anti-helmíntica. Quanto ao hematócrito, não houve diferença estatística nos seus valores nos grupos tratados com raiz e caule de andiroba, ou seja, de alguma forma houve interferência sobre as formas adultas dos nematóides que comprometeu o hematofagismo. Portanto, o extrato da Carapa guianensis apresenta potencial anti-helmíntico, sendo uma boa alternativa no controle das endoparasitoses de ovinos.(AU)

Effects of purge potato (operculina macrocarpa) in multinutritional blocks on sheep naturally infected with gastrointestinal helminth

Objetivo desse estudo foi avaliar os efeitos da batata de purga (O. macrocarpa) oferecida em blocos multinutricionais sobre ovinos naturalmente infectados por helmintos gastrintestinais. O trabalho foi desenvolvido de acordo com um delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com quatro tratamentos e seis repetições de um animal. Os tratamentos foram: T1 = apenas BMs; T2 = BMs + batata de purga (1g/Kg/peso vivo); T3 = BMs + batata de purga (0,5g/Kg/pv) e T4 = BMs + anti-helmíntico químico. Nos tratamentos com batata de purga 1g/Kg/pv, 0,5g/Kg/pv e químico o OPG diminuiu aos sete dias com 767, 516, 267 e eficácia de 53, 68, e 84% respectivamente. Os valores médios das hemácias, hemoglobina, hematócrito e leucócitos foram menores para o tratamento apenas com BMs, porém se mantiveram dentro dos valores de referência. Para globulina, proteínas totais, creatinina os valores médios ficaram discretamente abaixo da referência para ovinos. Conclui-se que a O. macrocarpa adicionada aos blocos multinutricionais nas doses e período estudado não provocaram respostas fisiorgânicas características de toxicidade.(AU)

This study evaluates the effects of purge potato (Operculina macrocarpa) in multi-nutritional blocks (MBs) on sheep naturally infected with gastrointestinal helminths. The experimental design was completely randomized, with four treatments and six replicates per animal. Treatments were: T1 = only MBs; T2 = MBs + purge potato (1g/Kg/lw); T3 = MBs + purge potato (0.5/Kg/lw); and T4 = MBs + chemical anthelmintic. In the treatments with 1g/Kg/lw and 0.5g/Kg/lw purge potato and with chemical anthelmintic, eggs per gram (EPG) counts decreased to 767, 516, and 267 at seven days, with an effectiveness of 53, 68, and 84%, respectively. The mean values of red blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and leukocytes were lower for the treatment with only MBs; however, they were maintained within the reference values. For globulin, total protein, and creatinine, the mean values were discretely below the reference for sheep. It is concluded that adding O. macrocarpa to the multi-nutritional blocks in the studied doses and period did not cause physiological responses characteristic of toxicity.(AU)

Resistance of bovine gastrointestinal nematodes to four classes of anthelmintics in the semiarid region of Paraíba state, Brazil / Resistência de nematódeos gastrintestinais de bovinos à quatro classes de anti-helmínticos no semiárido do Estado da Paraíba, Brasil

The effectiveness of four anthelmintic classes on cattle gastrointestinal nematodes in the semi-arid region of Paraiba State, Brazil, was evaluated. Twenty farms were used, testing 40 animals in each one, totaling 800 animals. Cattle were divided into four groups composed with ten animals: I, treated with albendazole sulfoxide 15%; II, treated with ivermectin 1%; III, treated with closantel 25%; IV, treated with levamisole hydrochloride 7.5%. All treatments were administered subcutaneously. For the Fecal Egg Count Reduction Test (FECRT), individual fecal samples were collected on days 0 and 14, and sent for analysis of egg count per gram of feces (EPG) and larval cultures. It was observed that multiresistance was present in 95% (19/20) of the farms. Resistance to ivermectin and albendazole was observed in 95% (19/20), to closantel in 75% (15/20) and to levamisole in 20% (4/20). The most used management system was semi-intensive (75%; 15/20) and the ivermectin was the most reported drug for controlling helminths (65%; 13/20). Haemonchus spp. was the most prevalent helminth genus. It was concluded that the anthelmintic resistance of bovine gastrointestinal nematodes is high in the semi-arid of Paraíba State, Brazil, with multiresistance observed mainly to ivermectin, albendazole and closantel.(AU)

Avaliou-se a eficácia de quatro classes de anti-helmínticos sobre nematódeos gastrintestinais de bovinos na região semiárida da Paraíba, Brasil. Foram utilizadas 20 fazendas, sendo testados 40 animais em cada uma, totalizando 800 animais. Os bovinos foram distribuídos em quatro grupos compostos por dez animais: I, tratado com sulfóxido de albendazol 15%; II, tratado com ivermectina 1%; III, tratado com closantel 25%; IV, tratado com cloridrato de levamisole 7,5%. Para o Teste de Redução da Contagem de Ovos Fecais (TRCOF), amostras fecais individuais foram coletadas nos dias 0 e 14 e enviadas para análises de contagem de ovos por grama de fezes (OPG) e coproculturas. Observou-se que a multirressistência estava presente em 95% (19/20) das fazendas. Foi observada resistência à ivermectina e ao albendazol, em 95% das fazendas (19/20); ao closantel, em 75% (15/20) e, ao levamisole, em 20% (4/20). O sistema de manejo mais utilizado foi o semi-intensivo (75%; 15/20) e a ivermectina foi o fármaco mais relatado para controle de verminose (65%; 13/20). O gênero de helminto mais prevalente foi Haemonchus spp. (76,7%). Conclui-se que é alta a resistência anti-helmíntica por nematódeos gastrintestinais de bovinos no Semiárido da Paraíba, Brasil, com multirressistência observada principalmente à ivermectina, ao albendazol e ao closantel.(AU)

Use of Duddingtonia flagrans in the control of gastrointestinal nematodes of feedlot goats / Utilização de Duddingtonia flagrans no controle dos nematódeos gastrintestinais de caprinos mantidos em confinamento

This study aimed to evaluate the use of a sodium alginate matrix-pelletized formulation of Duddingtonia flagrans for biological control of gastrointestinal nematodiasis in feedlot goats in the semiarid region of Northeastern Brazil. We used 20 Saanen female goats (age, 4 months; average weight, 12 kg) that did not receive anthelmintic treatment and had counting of eggs per gram of faeces (EPGs) ≥ 500. The animals were divided into two groups: in group 1 (D. flagrans group), each animal received 3 g of pellets (0.6 g of D. flagrans mycelium) per 10 kg of body weight, twice a week, over 4 months; and in group 2 (control group), each animal received 3 g of pellets without fungus per 10 kg of body weight, twice a week, over 4 months. Each group was maintained in a separate 15-m2 stall. Larval cultures and measurements of weight, EPG, and packed cell volume (PCV) were performed every 15 days. We observed low EPG levels in the D. flagrans group throughout the experimental period, with a significant difference (p < 0.05) on day 30 and from day 60, having, at the end of the experiment, average OPG values of only 150, reduction of 92.3% when compared to control group. Haemonchus sp. was the most prevalent helminth in all larval cultures. The D. flagrans group showed a mean weight gain of 8.8 kg at the end of the experiment (p < 0.05), while the control group showed a mean weight gain of 4.8 kg. The best PCV results (p < 0.05) were also observed in the D. flagrans group from day 30. Thus, the use of D. flagrans pellets in a sodium alginate matrix was effective in controlling gastrointestinal nematodiasis of feedlot goats in the semiarid region of Northeastern Brazil.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar a utilização da formulação peletizada em matriz de alginato de sódio de Duddingtonia flagrans no controle biológico das nematodeoses gastrintestinais de caprinos mantidos em confinamento no semiárido do Nordeste brasileiro. Foram utilizados 20 caprinos da raça Saanen, fêmeas, com quatro meses de idade, média de peso de 12 kg, sem tratamento anti-helmíntico prévio e com contagem de ovos por grama de fezes (OPG) ≥ 500. Os animais foram divididos em dois grupos: grupo 1, cada animal recebeu na ração 3 g de péletes (0,6 g de micélio fúngico de D. flagrans) para cada 10 kg de peso vivo, duas vezes por semana, durante quatro meses; grupo 2, cada animal recebeu na ração 3 g de péletes sem fungos para cada 10 kg de peso vivo, duas vezes por semana, durante quatro meses, servindo como grupo controle. Cada grupo permaneceu em uma baia de 15 m2. Foram realizadas contagens de OPG, determinação de volume globular (VG), coproculturas e pesagem dos animais a cada 15 dias. Observaram-se baixos valores de OPG no grupo D. flagrans durante todo o experimento, com diferença significativa (p < 0,05) no dia 30 e a partir do dia 60, tendo, ao final do experimento, valores médios de OPG de apenas 150. No grupo Controle, a contagem final foi de 1950 OPG. Haemonchus sp. foi o gênero de helminto mais prevalente em todas as coproculturas. O grupo D. flagrans apresentou média de ganho de peso de 8,8 kg ao final do experimento e o grupo Controle, 4,8 kg (p < 0,05). Também foram observados os melhores índices de VG (p < 0,05) no grupo D. flagrans a partir do dia 30. Concluiu-se que a utilização de péletes em matriz de alginato de sódio de D. flagrans foi eficaz no controle das nematodeoses gastrintestinais de caprinos mantidos em confinamento no semiárido do Nordeste brasileiro.(AU)

Use of Duddingtonia flagrans in the control of gastrointestinal nematodes of feedlot goats / Utilização de Duddingtonia flagrans no controle dos nematódeos gastrintestinais de caprinos mantidos em confinamento

This study aimed to evaluate the use of a sodium alginate matrix-pelletized formulation of Duddingtonia flagrans for biological control of gastrointestinal nematodiasis in feedlot goats in the semiarid region of Northeastern Brazil. We used 20 Saanen female goats (age, 4 months; average weight, 12 kg) that did not receive anthelmintic treatment and had counting of eggs per gram of faeces (EPGs) ≥ 500. The animals were divided into two groups: in group 1 (D. flagrans group), each animal received 3 g of pellets (0.6 g of D. flagrans mycelium) per 10 kg of body weight, twice a week, over 4 months; and in group 2 (control group), each animal received 3 g of pellets without fungus per 10 kg of body weight, twice a week, over 4 months. Each group was maintained in a separate 15-m2 stall. Larval cultures and measurements of weight, EPG, and packed cell volume (PCV) were performed every 15 days. We observed low EPG levels in the D. flagrans group throughout the experimental period, with a significant difference (p < 0.05) on day 30 and from day 60, having, at the end of the experiment, average OPG values of only 150, reduction of 92.3% when compared to control group. Haemonchus sp. was the most prevalent helminth in all larval cultures. The D. flagrans group showed a mean weight gain of 8.8 kg at the end of the experiment (p < 0.05), while the control group showed a mean weight gain of 4.8 kg. The best PCV results (p < 0.05) were also observed in the D. flagrans group from day 30. Thus, the use of D. flagrans pellets in a sodium alginate matrix was effective in controlling gastrointestinal nematodiasis of feedlot goats in the semiarid region of Northeastern Brazil.

Objetivou-se avaliar a utilização da formulação peletizada em matriz de alginato de sódio de Duddingtonia flagrans no controle biológico das nematodeoses gastrintestinais de caprinos mantidos em confinamento no semiárido do Nordeste brasileiro. Foram utilizados 20 caprinos da raça Saanen, fêmeas, com quatro meses de idade, média de peso de 12 kg, sem tratamento anti-helmíntico prévio e com contagem de ovos por grama de fezes (OPG) ≥ 500. Os animais foram divididos em dois grupos: grupo 1, cada animal recebeu na ração 3 g de péletes (0,6 g de micélio fúngico de D. flagrans) para cada 10 kg de peso vivo, duas vezes por semana, durante quatro meses; grupo 2, cada animal recebeu na ração 3 g de péletes sem fungos para cada 10 kg de peso vivo, duas vezes por semana, durante quatro meses, servindo como grupo controle. Cada grupo permaneceu em uma baia de 15 m2. Foram realizadas contagens de OPG, determinação de volume globular (VG), coproculturas e pesagem dos animais a cada 15 dias. Observaram-se baixos valores de OPG no grupo D. flagrans durante todo o experimento, com diferença significativa (p < 0,05) no dia 30 e a partir do dia 60, tendo, ao final do experimento, valores médios de OPG de apenas 150. No grupo Controle, a contagem final foi de 1950 OPG. Haemonchus sp. foi o gênero de helminto mais prevalente em todas as coproculturas. O grupo D. flagrans apresentou média de ganho de peso de 8,8 kg ao final do experimento e o grupo Controle, 4,8 kg (p < 0,05). Também foram observados os melhores índices de VG (p < 0,05) no grupo D. flagrans a partir do dia 30. Concluiu-se que a utilização de péletes em matriz de alginato de sódio de D. flagrans foi eficaz no controle das nematodeoses gastrintestinais de caprinos mantidos em confinamento no semiárido do Nordeste brasileiro.

Sheep gastrointestinal helminthiasis in the Sertão region of Paraíba State, Northeastern Brazil: prevalence and risk factors.

In this study, we aimed to establish the prevalence and risk factors relating to gastrointestinal helminthiasis, and to characterize the sanitary management practiced among sheep herds in the Sertão region of the state of Paraíba, northeastern Brazil, based on factors that condition the ways of controlling these parasites in these herds. The research was carried out between April and July 2012. We visited 54 farms, where fecal and blood samples were individually collected from 465 animals. On each farm, a questionnaire was applied to gather information on variables relating to potential risk factors. The prevalence of sheep gastrointestinal helminthiasis in the region was 75.9%. At least one animal tested positive for this helminthiasis on 53 (98.1%) of the 54 farms evaluated. The eggs per gram of feces (EPG) analysis showed the following infection burdens: 51.8% with mild infection, 27.1% moderate infection, 9.9% heavy infection and 11.2% fatal infection. Among the sheep farms visited, anthelmintics were used on 81.5% (p <0.05). The most relevant risk factor in this study was the farm area, because it defines the area available for grazing animals. Properties with many animals and little pasture area, which are the most abundant type in the Sertão region of Paraíba, tend to have high prevalence of gastrointestinal helminthiasis, because the animals are more prone to reinfection. The Sertão region of Paraíba presents high prevalence of gastrointestinal helminthiasis among sheep, and the farm area is the most relevant risk factor for the development of these parasites.