ABSTRACT Purpose: To characterize the extracellular vesicle protein cargo in the aqueous humor and plasma of patients with ocular toxoplasmosis. Methods: Aqueous humor and plasma were collected from six patients with active ocular toxoplasmosis and six patients with cataract. Extracellular vesicles were isolated, and western blotting and mass spectrometry were performed for protein analysis. Results: All plasma samples from patients with ocular toxoplasmosis and cataract were positive for the tetraspanins CD63 and TSG101. However, the aqueous humor from patients with ocular toxoplasmosis was positive only for CD63. Sixty-seven new unreported proteins were identified in the aqueous humor and plasma of patients with the ocular toxoplasmosis and cataract. Of the 67 proteins, 10 and 7 were found only in the cataract and ocular toxoplasmosis groups, respectively. In general, these proteins were involved in immune system activation and retina homeostasis and were related to infections and retina-associated diseases. Conclusion: The distinct protein signatures between ocular toxoplasmosis and cataract may be helpful in the differential diagnosis of ocular toxoplasmosis. However, more studies are needed to better understand the role of these proteins in the pathogenesis of ocular toxoplasmosis. Purpose Methods isolated analysis Results CD CD6 TSG101 TSG However Sixtyseven Sixty seven 6 1 groups respectively general retinaassociated associated diseases Conclusion TSG10 TSG1

RESUMEN Introducción: La toxoplasmosis es una enfermedad de distribución universal producida por el toxoplasma gondii. Objetivo: Describir las características epidemiológicas y clínicas de los pacientes con toxoplasmosis ocular, que son atendidos en el Centro Oftalmológico de Santiago de Cuba Juan Bruno Zayas Alfonso. Método: Se realizó un estudio observacional, descriptivo, transversal. La población estudiada estuvo conformada por los 29 pacientes de ambos sexos diagnosticados con toxoplasmosis ocular, que fueron atendidos en el Centro Oftalmológico de Santiago de Cuba, entre diciembre del 2020 y diciembre del 2022. Se analizaron variables tales como edad, sexo, condiciones higiénico-sanitarias de la vivienda, zona de residencia, ojo afectado, afectación visual, topografía, forma de presentación de la lesión y complicaciones. Resultados: Predominó el sexo masculino (5,2 %), en las edades de 34 a 49 años (44,4 %). Según las condiciones de vida, 48 % eran regulares y 70 % vivían en zona rural. La afectación visual fue grave (55,5 %) con localización en zona I (81.5 %). Predominaron las lesiones recurrentes (55,6 %) y 92,6 % un solo ojo afectado. Dentro de las complicaciones, el glaucoma secundario (22,2 %). Conclusiones: La toxoplasmosis ocular es la causa más frecuente de uveítis posterior. La presencia de animales domésticos y los hábitos alimentarios no adecuados se erigieron como factores de riesgo fundamentales en este estudio.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Toxoplasmosis is a universally distributed disease caused by toxoplasma gondii. Objective: To describe the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of patients with ocular toxoplasmosis who were treated at the Santiago de Cuba Opthalmological Center Juan Bruno Zayas Alonso. Methods: An observational, cross-sectional study was conducted. The study population consisted of 29 patients of both sexes diagnosed with ocular toxoplasmosis, who were treated at the Santiago de Cuba Opthalmological Center, between December 2020 and December 2022. Variables such as age, sex, sanitary and hygienic conditions of the house, area of residence, affected eye, visual impairment, topography, presentation of the lesion and complications were analyzed. Results: The majority of the population was men (5.2 %) aged 34-49 (44.4 %). According to conditions of the houses, 48 % were regular and 70 % lived in rural areas. The visual impairment was severe (55.5 %) with location in zone I (81.5 %). Recurrent lesions (55.6 %) and one eye affected (92.6 %) predominated. Among the complications, secondary glaucoma (22.2 %). Conclusions: Ocular toxoplasmosis is the most common cause of posterior uveitis. The presence of domestic animals and inappropriate eating habits were identified as key risk factors in this study.

ABSTRACT The teaching of human parasitology is essential for students of health sciences, especially medicine, because it is a major global public health problem―occurring with high frequency in low-income countries―and because of its presence in countries considered developed. In this sense, it is estimated that worldwide there are 2,800 million individuals infected with soil-transmitted helminths, 20 to 30% people infected with Toxoplasma gondii, 300 to 500 million new cases of malaria per year, and nearly 15 million Latin Americans with Chagas disease, an infection caused by Trypanosoma cruzi. This narrative review article analyzes information available in digital repositories on aspects of the traditional educational program of human or medical parasitology using descriptors or keywords closely related to the topic. The reviewed articles were mainly those published in peer-reviewed, indexed and prestigious scientific journals. Moreover, the traditional program of parasitology and the prevailing pedagogy are described with the purpose of encouraging discussion on the methods that lead to its learning. Also, given the dynamic nature of this process and the constant challenges that must be faced in this field, said information can help to explore new ways of teaching parasitology in answer to the demands of the context. In conclusion, parasitic diseases have affected humankind throughout history, causing illness, disability and death in millions of people. Therefore, among the measures to fight such a terrible scourge, the training of more and better professionals in the area is promoted due to their leading role in the design and execution of control programs. As a result, the need to describe in detail the characteristics of the traditional teaching of this branch of knowledge arises―as shown in this paper―in view of the new human teaching methods: participatory learning, problem-based learning and Internetassisted learning.

RESUMEN Es fundamental la enseñanza de la parasitología humana para los estudiantes de las carreras de ciencias de la salud, especialmente la médica, por ser un importante problema de salud pública con distribución mundial, con alta frecuencia en países de bajos recursos económicos y por su presencia en aquellos países considerados desarrollados. En este sentido, se estima que existen en el mundo 2800 millones de individuos infectados con geohelmintos, 20 % a 30 % de infectados con Toxoplasma gondii, 300 a 500 millones de casos nuevos de malaria al año y aproximadamente 15 millones de latinoamericanos con enfermedad de Chagas, una enfermedad causada por el Trypanosoma cruzi. En este artículo de revisión narrativa se analiza información disponible en repositorios digitales sobre aspectos del programa pedagógico tradicional de la parasitología humana o médica, para lo cual se emplearon descriptores o palabras clave en estrecha relación con el tema. Los artículos que se revisaron principalmente fueron aquellos publicados en revistas científicas arbitradas, indexadas y de reconocido prestigio. Asimismo, se describen el programa tradicional de parasitología y la pedagogía prevalente empleada, con el propósito de fomentar el debate sobre los métodos que conducen a su aprendizaje. Por otro lado, si se consideran el carácter dinámico que posee este proceso y los constantes desafíos que deben afrontarse en este campo, esta información puede ayudar a explorar nuevas formas de enseñar la parasitología en respuesta a las exigencias del contexto. En conclusión, las enfermedades parasitarias han afectado a la humanidad a lo largo de la historia, y han causado enfermedades, discapacidad y la muerte de millones de personas. Por tanto, entre las medidas para combatir tan terrible flagelo se señala la capacitación de más y mejores profesionales en el área, por su papel preponderante en el diseño y ejecución de los programas de control, de lo que se desprende la necesidad de describir en detalle las características de la enseñanza tradicional de esta rama del conocimiento ―como se muestra en el contenido de este escrito― en virtud de la existencia de nuevos métodos de enseñanza humana: la enseñanza participativa, aprendizaje basado en problemas y aprendizaje asistido por internet.

Abstract Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum are two closely related protozoans that infect a wide range of animals, including birds. However, the occurrence of N. caninum and T. gondii in seabirds is unknown. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the presence of T. gondii and N. caninum DNA in tissue samples of seabirds. Tissue samples of the pectoral muscles, heart, and brain were collected from 47 birds along the coastline of Santa Catarina State, SC, Brazil. The DNA was extracted from the tissues and screened using nested-PCR (nPCR) targeting internal transcribed spacer 1 (ITS1). T. gondii DNA was detected in tissues from seven seabirds (7/47, 14.8%), kelp gull (Larus dominicanus) (5/21), and Manx shearwater (Puffinus puffinus) (2/8). N. caninum DNA was detected in tissues of nine seabirds (9/47, 19.1%), the kelp gull (L. dominicanus) (4/21), Manx shearwater (P. puffinus) (2/8), neotropic cormorant (Phalacrocorax brasilianus) (1/4), brown booby (Sula leucogaster) (1/5), and white-chinned petrel (Procellaria aequinoctialis) (1/1); however, no co-infection was observed. In conclusion, this study showed the circulation of N. caninum and T. gondii in seabirds along the coastline of Santa Catarina State. Further studies are required to clarify the role of these birds in the epidemiology of neosporosis and toxoplasmosis. animals However N T unknown Therefore muscles heart 4 State SC Brazil nestedPCR nested PCR nPCR (nPCR ITS1. ITS1 ITS . (ITS1) 7/47, 747 7 (7/47 14.8%, 148 14.8% , 14 8 14.8%) Larus dominicanus 5/21, 521 5/21 5 21 (5/21) Puffinus puffinus 2/8. 28 2/8 2 (2/8) 9/47, 947 9 (9/47 19.1%, 191 19.1% 19 19.1%) L. L (L 4/21, 421 4/21 (4/21) P. P (P 2/8, Phalacrocorax brasilianus 1/4, 1/4 (1/4) Sula leucogaster 1/5, 15 1/5 (1/5) whitechinned white chinned Procellaria aequinoctialis 1/1 11 (1/1) however coinfection co infection observed conclusion toxoplasmosis (ITS1 7/47 74 (7/4 14.8 52 5/2 (5/21 2/ (2/8 9/47 94 (9/4 19.1 42 4/2 (4/21 1/ (1/4 (1/5 (1/1 (ITS 7/4 (7/ 14. 5/ (5/2 (2/ 9/4 (9/ 19. 4/ (4/2 (1/ 7/ (7 (5/ (2 9/ (9 (4/ (1 ( (5 (4

Resumo Toxoplasma gondii e Neospora caninum são dois protozoários intimamente relacionados que infectam uma ampla gama de animais, incluindo-se aves. Entretanto, a ocorrência de N. caninum e T. gondii em aves marinhas é desconhecida. Portanto, este estudo objetivou determinar a presença de DNA de T. gondii e N. caninum em amostras de tecidos, coletadas de 47 aves marinhas. Amostras de tecidos dos músculos peitorais, coração e cérebro foram coletadas de 47 aves marinhas mortas ao longo da costa do estado de Santa Catarina, SC, Brasil. O DNA foi extraído dos tecidos e testado, usando-se a reação em cadeia da polimerase nested (nPCR), tendo em vista o espaçador interno transcrito 1 (ITS1). O DNA de T. gondii foi detectado em tecidos de sete aves marinhas (7/47, 14,8%), como gaivota (Larus dominicanus) (5/21) e bobo-pequeno (Puffinus puffinus) (2/8). O DNA de N. caninum foi detectado em tecidos de nove aves marinhas (9/47, 19,1%); gaivota (L. dominicanus) (4/21), bobo-pequeno (P. puffinus) (2/8), corvo-marinho (Phalacrocorax brasilianus) 1/4), atobá-pardo (Sula leucogaster) (1/5), e pardela-preta (Procellaria aequinoctialis) (1/1). No entanto, não foi observada coinfecção. Em conclusão, este estudo demonstrou a circulação de N. caninum e T. gondii em aves marinhas ao longo da costa de Santa Catarina, Brasil. Mais estudos são necessários para esclarecer o papel dessas aves na epidemiologia da neosporose e da toxoplasmose. animais incluindose incluindo se Entretanto N T desconhecida Portanto 4 peitorais Catarina SC Brasil testado usandose usando nPCR, nPCR , (nPCR) ITS1. ITS1 ITS . (ITS1) 7/47, 747 7 (7/47 14,8%, 148 14,8% 14 8 14,8%) Larus dominicanus 5/21 521 5 21 (5/21 bobopequeno bobo pequeno Puffinus puffinus 2/8. 28 2/8 2 (2/8) 9/47, 947 9 (9/47 19,1% 191 19 19,1%) L. L (L 4/21, 421 4/21 (4/21) P. P (P 2/8, corvomarinho corvo marinho Phalacrocorax brasilianus 1/4, 1/4 1/4) atobápardo atobá pardo Sula leucogaster 1/5, 15 1/5 (1/5) pardelapreta pardela preta Procellaria aequinoctialis 1/1. 11 1/1 (1/1) entanto coinfecção conclusão toxoplasmose (nPCR (ITS1 7/47 74 (7/4 14,8 5/2 52 (5/2 2/ (2/8 9/47 94 (9/4 19,1 42 4/2 (4/21 1/ (1/5 (1/1 (ITS 7/4 (7/ 14, 5/ (5/ (2/ 9/4 (9/ 19, 4/ (4/2 (1/ 7/ (7 (5 (2 9/ (9 (4/ (1 ( (4

ABSTRACT The occurrence of Toxoplasma gondii, Neospora caninum, Ehrlichia canis and Babesia vogeli in dogs from the municipality of Cândido Sales, Bahia, was investigated. Total and peripheral blood samples were obtained from 131 dogs. Blood smears were performed to check for morulae. Toxoplasma gondii and N. caninum infections were determined by an Indirect Immunofluorescence Reaction. Nested-PCR and PCR were used for the diagnoses of E. canis and B. vogeli infections, respectively. Additionally, the risk factors associated with infection by these agents were analyzed. The frequency of infection was 70.2% for N. caninum, 67.9% for T. gondii and 37.4% for E. canis. None of the dogs tested positive for B. vogeli. Morulae of Ehrlichia spp. were identified in two animals and the piroplasm in one animal. Age (> 3 years) was considered a risk factor for infections by E. canis and N. caninum and the rural habitat for infections by N. caninum. Co-infections were frequent, mainly with N. caninum and T. gondii (45.03% of dogs). Ehrlichia canis infection was significantly associated with N. caninum and T. gondii infection. These findings indicated a high occurrence of T. gondii, N. caninum, and E. canis in the studied region. Sales Bahia investigated 13 morulae N Reaction NestedPCR Nested E B respectively Additionally analyzed 702 70 2 70.2 679 67 9 67.9 T 374 37 4 37.4 spp animal > ( years Coinfections Co frequent 45.03% 4503 45 03 (45.03 . dogs) region 1 7 70. 6 67. 37. 45.03 450 0 (45.0 45.0 (45. 45. (45 (4

RESUMO Avaliou-se a ocorrência de infecções por Toxoplasma gondii, Neospora caninum, Ehrlichia canis e Babesia vogeli em cães do município de Cândido Sales - BA. Para isso, foram obtidas amostras de sangue total e periférico de 131 cães. Esfregaços sanguíneos foram confeccionados para verificação de mórulas. Infecções por T. gondii e N. caninum foram determinadas pela reação de imunofluorescência indireta. O diagnóstico das infecções por E. canis e B. vogeli foi feito por meio de Nested-PCR e PCR, respectivamente. Adicionalmente, foram analisados os fatores de risco associados à infecção por esses agentes. Verificou-se frequência de infecção de 70,2% para N. caninum, 67,9% para T. gondii e de 37,4% para E. canis. Nenhum cão foi positivo para B. vogeli. Mórulas de Ehrlichia spp. foram identificadas em dois animais, e piroplasma em um. A idade (acima de 3 anos) foi fator de risco para infecções por E. canis e N. caninum, e hábitat rural para N. caninum. Coinfecções foram frequentes, principalmente por N. caninum e T. gondii (45,03%). Infecção por E. canis foi associada significativamente às infecções por N. caninum e T. gondii. Os achados indicam elevada ocorrência de T. gondii, N. caninum, e E. canis na região. Avaliouse Avaliou se BA isso 13 mórulas T N indireta E B NestedPCR Nested PCR respectivamente Adicionalmente agentes Verificouse Verificou 702 70 2 70,2 679 67 9 67,9 374 37 4 37,4 spp animais um acima anos frequentes 45,03%. 4503 45,03% . 45 03 (45,03%) região 1 7 70, 6 67, 37, 450 45,03 0 (45,03% 45,0 (45,03 45, (45,0 (45, (45 (4 (

Abstract This study aimed to detect Toxoplasma gondii in artisanal salted meat products sold in street markets in the Ilhéus-Itabuna microregion and to assess the salt concentration used in their preparation and its influence on the parasite’s viability. A total of 125 samples of various artisanal meat products sold in street markets located in the Ilhéus-Itabuna microregion were collected during 2021. Serological analysis using indirect hemagglutination (HAI) and molecular analysis (PCR) were performed on these samples to detect the presence of the parasite. Möhr’s method was utilized to determine the sodium chloride concentration in the samples. Of all samples, 21 were subjected to a bioassay in albino mice to verify the viability of possible tissue cysts. Among the 125 meat products, 10 (8%) tested positive in the serological analysis including four cured pork sausages, five beef sun-dried meats, and one mixed fresh sausage (pork and chicken). None of 125 samples tested positive in the molecular analysis. On bioassay, all mice tested negative for the presence of the parasite. The NaCl concentration in the positive samples ranged from 2.9% to 8%. The results demonstrated that the salt concentration in the collected samples was sufficient to inactivate the parasite T. gondii. IlhéusItabuna Ilhéus Itabuna parasites s 12 2021 HAI (HAI PCR (PCR Möhrs Möhr 2 cysts 1 8% 8 (8% sausages sundried sun dried meats chicken. chicken . chicken) 29 9 2.9 T 202 (8 2. 20 (

Resumo Este estudo teve como objetivo detectar Toxoplasma gondii em produtos cárneos salgados artesanais, comercializados em feiras livres da microrregião Ilhéus-Itabuna, e avaliar a concentração do sal utilizado no preparo e sua influência na viabilidade do parasito. Foram coletadas 125 amostras de diversos produtos cárneos artesanais, vendidos em feiras livres localizadas na microrregião Ilhéus-Itabuna, durante o ano de 2021. Nessas amostras, a fim de detectar a presença do parasito, foram realizadas análises sorológicas de hemaglutinação indireta (HAI) e molecular (PCR). Para a determinação da concentração de cloreto de sódio presente nas amostras, foi realizado o Método de Möhr. Do total, 21 amostras foram destinadas ao bioensaio em camundongos albinos, na intenção de verificar a viabilidade de possíveis cistos teciduais presentes. Dos 125 produtos cárneos, 10 (8%) foram positivos na análise sorológica, sendo quatro linguiças curadas suína, cinco carnes de sol bovina e uma linguiça frescal mista (suíno e frango). Nenhuma amostra foi positiva na análise molecular. No bioensaio, todos os camundongos testaram negativo para a presença do parasito. Das amostras positivas na sorologia, as concentrações de NaCl variaram de 2,9% a 8%. Os resultados evidenciaram que a concentração de sal das amostras coletadas foi suficiente para inativar o parasito Toxoplasma gondii. artesanais IlhéusItabuna, IlhéusItabuna Ilhéus Itabuna, Itabuna Ilhéus-Itabuna 12 2021 HAI (HAI PCR. PCR . (PCR) Möhr total 2 albinos presentes 1 8% 8 (8% sorológica suína suíno frango. frango frango) sorologia 29 9 2,9 202 (PCR (8 2, 20 (

Abstract Objective The present study sought to investigate changes in mood, inhibitory control, and working memory associated with T. gondii infection in a sample of Brazilian women. Method Twenty-eight female participants were equally distributed into two groups, according to the serology for chronic infection by T. gondii. The participants answered a Sociodemographic questionnaire, the CES-D, and performed Simon and N-Back tasks. Results Infected participants presented less accuracy and longer response time in N-Back tasks. No significant differences were found in the Simon task performance or in the depression levels. Conclusion Our findings suggest that chronic infection by T. gondii may result in impaired working memory and point out the importance of public policies aiming at preventing this infection. mood control T women Twentyeight Twenty eight groups questionnaire CESD, CESD CES D, D CES-D NBack N Back tasks levels

Resumo Objetivo O presente estudo investigou alterações de humor, controle inibitório e memória de trabalho associadas à infecção por T. gondii em uma amostra de mulheres brasileiras. Método Vinte e oito participantes foram distribuídas igualmente em dois grupos de acordo com a sorologia para infecção crônica por T. gondii. As participantes responderam a um questionário sociodemográfico, à CES-D e realizaram as tarefas Simon e N-Back. Resultados As participantes infectadas apresentaram menor acurácia e maior tempo de resposta na tarefa N-Back. Nenhuma diferença significativa foi encontrada na tarefa Simon ou na escala de depressão. Conclusão Nossos achados sugerem que a infecção crônica por T. gondii pode resultar em comprometimento da memória de trabalho, e apontam para a importância de políticas públicas de prevenção dessa infecção. humor T brasileiras sociodemográfico CESD CES D NBack. NBack N Back. Back N-Back depressão

ABSTRACT Toxoplasmosis is a widespread zoonotic disease that poses significant public health concern globally, with neurotoxoplasmosis being a severe complication associated with high mortality rates. The standard therapy for neurotoxoplasmosis involves a combination of sulfadiazine and pyrimethamine, which, despite its efficacy, is often limited by adverse effects leading to treatment discontinuation. This study aimed to evaluate the in vivo efficacy of nitazoxanide in treating neurotoxoplasmosis in mice infected with the Me49 strain. The study comprised two groups: Group I, including subgroups of uninfected, infected and treated with saline, and infected and untreated mice; and Group II, comprising infected mice treated with nitazoxanide at 100 mg/kg/day, nitazoxanide at 150 mg/kg/day, and pyrimethamine combined with sulfadiazine. After 14 days of treatment, the mice were euthanized for organ collection. Histopathological examination of the brains revealed that the highest dose of nitazoxanide reduced parasitic load and cerebral hemorrhages. Biochemical and histopathological analyses of liver and kidney tissues demonstrated toxicological profiles comparable to pyrimethamine and sulfadiazine. However, despite showing efficacy and similar toxicity levels, nitazoxanide treatment was less effective regimen in controlling neurotoxoplasmosis in this experimental model compared to the pyrimethamine and sulfadiazine. Thus, while nitazoxanide presents potential in neurotoxoplasmosis treatment, pyrimethamine combined with sulfadiazine remains the preferred therapeutic choice based on better efficacy observed in this study. globally rates which discontinuation Me Me4 strain groups I uninfected saline II 10 mgkgday mg kg day mg/kg/day 15 1 collection hemorrhages However levels Thus

RESUMO Os distúrbios neurológicos em aves incluem vários agentes infecciosos ou não infecciosos, alguns envolvidos em malformações embrionárias. A hidrocefalia é uma importante desordem neurológica a ser pesquisada em aves. O presente relato tem como objetivo investigar um caso de hidrocefalia em um papagaio-verdadeiro (Amazona aestiva) de um criadouro conservacionista, localizado no estado de Minas Gerais, Brasil, clinicamente acometido por sinais neurológicos. As lesões post mortem observadas foram megaloencefalia, distensão e adelgaçamento da calota craniana, cérebro subdesenvolvido, espessamento das meninges e presença de grande volume (aproximadamente 10mL) de líquido cefalorraquidiano (LCR) claro. As avaliações histopatológicas demonstraram discreta malácia multifocal, associada à gliose e satelitose neuronal no sistema nervoso central. A triagem molecular para vírus e parasitos revelou a ausência de várias etiologias comuns, incluindo Alphavirus (protocolo universal do gênero), Bornavirus aviário, Alphaherpesvirinae (primers universais para subfamília), Paramyxovirus (primers universais da família), vírus da doença de Newcastle (Orthoavulavirus aviário 1), vírus influenza A (Alphainfluenzavirus), vírus da doença de Marek (Mardivirus, Gallid herpesvirus 2), vírus do Nilo Ocidental, Flavivirus (Orthoflavivirus primers universais), Apicomplexa (primers universais para a ordem) e Toxoplasma gondii, todos testados negativos por PCR ou RT-PCR. A bacteriologia e a micologia aeróbias do líquido cefalorraquidiano não revelaram crescimento. Os resultados sugerem que a hidrocefalia resultou do acúmulo crônico craniano de LCR, com aumento da pressão craniana e distensão do crânio antes da ossificação. A acumulação de LCR possivelmente foi devido a causas congênitas de malformação na produção, na drenagem ou na circulação. embrionárias papagaioverdadeiro papagaio verdadeiro Amazona aestiva conservacionista Gerais Brasil megaloencefalia subdesenvolvido aproximadamente 10mL mL (LCR claro multifocal central comuns protocolo gênero, gênero , gênero) subfamília, subfamília subfamília) família, família família) Orthoavulavirus 1, 1 1) Alphainfluenzavirus, Alphainfluenzavirus (Alphainfluenzavirus) Mardivirus, Mardivirus (Mardivirus 2, 2 2) Ocidental Orthoflavivirus universais, universais) ordem gondii RTPCR. RTPCR RT PCR. RT-PCR crescimento ossificação produção circulação (Alphainfluenzavirus

ABSTRACT Hydrocephalus is an important neurological disorder rarely described in birds. The present report aims to describe a natural case of hydrocephalus in a blue-fronted parrot (Amazona aestiva) from a conservationist breeding (Minas Gerais, Brazil), clinically affected with neurological signs. The post-mortem lesions noted were megalencephaly, distension and thinning of the skullcap, underdeveloped brain, thickening of the meninges and the presence of a large volume of approximately 10mL of clear cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). The histopathological evaluations demonstrated discrete multifocal malacia, associated with gliosis and neuronal satellitosis in the central nervous system. The screening for viruses revealed the absence of several common etiologies, including Alphavirus (genus universal primers), avian Bornavirus, Alphaherpesvirinae (subfamily universal primers), Paramyxovirus (family universal primers), Newcastle’s disease virus (avian Orthoavulavirus 1), influenza A virus (Alphainfluenzavirus), Marek's disease virus (Mardivirus, Gallid herpesvirus 2), West Nile virus, Flavivirus (Orthoflavivirus universal primers), Apicomplexa (universal primers) and Toxoplasma gondii, all tested negative by PCR or RT-PCR. The aerobic bacteriology and mycology of the CSF did not reveal growth. The results suggest that the chronic accumulation of CSF with increased cranial pressure resulted in distension of the skull, possibly due to congenital causes of increased production, drainage or circulation. birds bluefronted blue fronted Amazona aestiva Minas Gerais Brazil, Brazil , Brazil) signs postmortem post mortem megalencephaly skullcap brain mL CSF. . (CSF) malacia system etiologies genus primers, primers Bornavirus subfamily family Newcastles Newcastle s 1, 1 1) Alphainfluenzavirus, Alphainfluenzavirus (Alphainfluenzavirus) Mareks Marek Mardivirus, Mardivirus (Mardivirus 2, 2 2) Orthoflavivirus gondii RTPCR. RTPCR RT PCR. RT-PCR growth skull production circulation (CSF (Alphainfluenzavirus

Abstract Toxoplasma gondii is a coccidian that infects almost all warm-blooded animals, including birds. Rocas Atoll Biological Reserve, located in the northeast of Brazil, is the only atoll in the South Atlantic, and home to the largest population of seabirds in the western Atlantic. In this study the occurrence of T. gondii antibodies in seabirds from Rocas Atoll were determined. Birds were manually captured, blood samples were taken, and antibodies detected by the modified agglutination test (>5). In total, 267 birds of seven species belonging to three families (Sternidae, Fregatidae and Sulidae) and two orders (Charadriiformes and Suliformes) were sampled. Out of the 267 samples, 20 (7.3%) were seropositive: nine out of 48 brown noddies (Anous stolidus), one out of 26 black noddies (Anous minutus), three out of 20 magnificent frigatebirds (Fregata magnificens), five out of 95 sooty terns (Onychoprion fuscatus) and two out of 20 red-footed boobies (Sula sula). None of the 33 masked boobies (Sula dactylatra) and the 25 brown boobies (Sula leucogaster) were seropositive. The antibody titers were 5 (n=6), 10 (n=4), 20 (n=3), 40 (n=6) and 160 (n=1). Due to the uniqueness of this environment, monitoring the seabirds is suggested to maintaining this Conservation Unit. warmblooded warm blooded animals Reserve Brazil Atlantic T determined captured taken >5. >5 . (>5) total Sternidae, Sternidae (Sternidae Sulidae Charadriiformes Suliformes sampled 2 7.3% 73 7 3 (7.3% seropositive 4 Anous stolidus, stolidus , stolidus) minutus, minutus minutus) Fregata magnificens, magnificens magnificens) 9 Onychoprion fuscatus redfooted red footed Sula sula. sula sula) dactylatra leucogaster n=6, n6 n n=6 6 1 n=4, n4 n=4 (n=4) n=3, n3 n=3 (n=3) (n=6 16 n=1. n1 n=1 (n=1) environment Unit > (>5 7.3 (7.3 n= (n=4 (n=3 (n= (n=1 (> 7. (7. (n ( (7

Resumo Toxoplasma gondii é um coccídio que infecta quase todos os animais de sangue quente, incluindo aves. A Reserva Biológica do Atol das Rocas, localizada no Nordeste do Brasil, é o único atol do Atlântico Sul que abriga a maior população de aves marinhas tropicais do oeste do Oceano Atlântico. O objetivo deste estudo foi verificar a ocorrência de anticorpos anti-T. gondii em aves marinhas do Atol das Rocas que foram capturadas manualmente. Amostras de sangue foram obtidas e anticorpos avaliados pelo teste de aglutinação modificado (>5). Foram amostradas 267 aves de sete espécies, pertencentes a três famílias (Sternidae, Fregatidae e Sulidae) e duas ordens (Charadriiformes e Suliformes). Das 267 aves, 20 (7,3%) foram soropositivas sendo: nove das 48 viuvinhas-marrons (Anous stolidus), uma das 26 viuvinhas-negras (Anous minutus), três das 20 fragatas (Fregata magnificens), cinco dos 95 trinta-réis-das-rocas (Onychoprion fuscatus) e dois dos 20 atobás-de-pés-vermelhos (Sula sula). Nenhum dos 33 atobás grandes (Sula dactylatra) e dos 25 atobás-pardos (Sula leucogaster) estavam soropositivos. Os títulos de anticorpos foram 5 (n=6), 10 (n=4), 20 (n=3), 40 (n=6) e 160 (n=1). Devido à singularidade deste ambiente, o monitoramento dessas aves marinhas é sugerido para promover uma abordagem de Saúde Única nesta Unidade de Conservação. quente Brasil antiT. antiT anti T. T anti-T manualmente >5. >5 . (>5) espécies Sternidae, Sternidae (Sternidae Sulidae Charadriiformes Suliformes. Suliformes Suliformes) 2 7,3% 73 7 3 (7,3% sendo 4 viuvinhasmarrons viuvinhas marrons Anous stolidus, stolidus , stolidus) viuvinhasnegras negras minutus, minutus minutus) Fregata magnificens, magnificens magnificens) 9 trintaréisdasrocas trinta réis rocas Onychoprion fuscatus atobásdepésvermelhos pés vermelhos Sula sula. sula sula) dactylatra atobáspardos pardos leucogaster soropositivos n=6, n6 n n=6 6 1 n=4, n4 n=4 (n=4) n=3, n3 n=3 (n=3) (n=6 16 n=1. n1 n=1 (n=1) ambiente Conservação > (>5 7,3 (7,3 n= (n=4 (n=3 (n= (n=1 (> 7, (7, (n ( (7

Resumo Toxoplasma gondii é um protozoário coccídio de importância zoonótica, causador da toxoplasmose. Embora os tratamentos atuais para a toxoplasmose possam estar associados a efeitos adversos e à eficácia limitada para as diferentes formas biológicas do parasita, evidências sugerem que moléculas alcaloides, como a harmalina e a piperina exibem, efeitos antiparasitários contra protozoários parasitas. Essa investigação teve como objetivo avaliar o efeito in vitro da harmalina e da piperina contra taquizoítos de T. gondii em culturas de células Vero infectadas. Após 24 horas da infecção das células hospedeiras, as culturas foram tratadas com harmalina ou piperina (0,49 a 15,63 µg/mL). Os controles negativo e positivo foram RPMI/DMSO (0,1%) e sulfadiazina (200 µg/mL), respectivamente. Harmalina reduziu significativamente a multiplicação parasitária em 20% em comparação ao controle negativo, enquanto a piperina diminuiu entre 55,56% e 88,89%, de forma dose-dependente. De acordo com uma escala de proporção intracelular de parasitas, observou-se que células Vero com baixa ou moderada proliferação parasitária foram mais prevalentes após tratamento com alcaloides. O estudo demonstrou que os alcaloides tinham efeitos antiparasitários sobre o T. gondii, sendo a piperina mais eficaz. Estudos adicionais devem ser realizados para esclarecer outros aspectos da ação dos alcaloides sobre os parasitas. zoonótica parasita exibem parasitas T infectadas 2 hospedeiras 0,49 049 0 49 (0,4 1563 15 63 15,6 µg/mL. µgmL µg/mL . µg mL µg/mL) RPMIDMSO RPMI DMSO 0,1% 01 1 (0,1% 200 (20 µg/mL, , respectivamente 20 5556 55 56 55,56 8889 88 89 88,89% dosedependente. dosedependente dose dependente. dependente dose-dependente observouse observou se eficaz 0,4 04 4 (0, 156 6 15, 0,1 (0,1 (2 555 5 55,5 888 8 88,89 0, (0 ( 55, 88,8 88,

Abstract Toxoplasma gondii is a coccidian protozoan of zoonotic importance that causes toxoplasmosis. Although the current treatments for toxoplasmosis may be associated with adverse effects and limited efficacy for different biological forms of the parasite, evidence suggests that alkaloid molecules such as harmaline and piperine exhibit antiparasitic effects against protozoa parasites. This investigation aimed to evaluate the in vitro effect of harmaline and piperine against T. gondii tachyzoites in infected Vero cell cultures. After 24 hours of host cell infection, the cultures were treated with harmaline or piperine (0.49 to 15.63 µg/mL). Negative and positive controls were RPMI/DMSO (0.1%) and sulfadiazine (200 µg/mL). Harmaline significantly reduced parasite multiplication by 20% compared to the negative control, while piperine decreased between 55.56% and 88.89% in a dose-dependent manner. According to an intracellular parasite proportion scale, it was observed that the Vero cells with low or moderate parasitic proliferation were more prevalent after the alkaloid treatment. The study demonstrated that the alkaloids had antiparasitic effects on T. gondii, with piperine being the most effective. Additional studies must be carried out to clarify other aspects of the action of the alkaloids on parasites. parasites T 2 infection 0.49 049 0 49 (0.4 1563 15 63 15.6 µg/mL. µgmL µg/mL . µg mL µg/mL) RPMIDMSO RPMI DMSO 0.1% 01 1 (0.1% 200 (20 20 control 5556 55 56 55.56 8889 88 89 88.89 dosedependent dose dependent manner scale treatment effective 0.4 04 4 (0. 156 6 15. 0.1 (0.1 (2 555 5 55.5 888 8 88.8 0. (0 ( 55. 88.

ABSTRACT The main social impact of toxoplasmosis stems from its ability to be vertically transmitted. Postnatally acquired infection is generally asymptomatic in approximately 70–90% of cases, making diagnosis often dependent on laboratory tests using serological methods to search for anti-T. gondii antibodies. This study aimed to investigate the ability of the VIDAS TOXO IgG avidity and VIDAS TOXO IgM assays to confirm recent toxoplasmosis. In total, 341 pregnant women with suspected acute toxoplasmosis were systematically monitored in the Program for Control of Congenital Toxoplasmosis in Minas Gerais State, Brazil. We conducted an observational analytical-descriptive cross-sectional study and grouped according to clinical and laboratory criteria as having acute or chronic toxoplasmosis. The VIDAS TOXO IgG avidity and VIDAS TOXO IgM assays were evaluated to investigate the capacity to identify acute infection. IgG avidity showed good performance in identifying acute toxoplasmosis when the IgG avidity index was lower than or equal to 0.1. Values greater than or equal to 3.16 according to the TOXO IgM kit were associated with a greater chance of acute infection. These results may contribute to a more adequate diagnosis of acute gestational toxoplasmosis and, consequently, the avoidance of inadequate or unnecessary treatments. transmitted 7090 70 90 70–90 cases antiT. antiT anti T. T anti-T antibodies total 34 State Brazil analyticaldescriptive analytical descriptive crosssectional cross sectional 01 0 1 0.1 316 3 16 3.1 consequently treatments 709 7 9 70–9 0. 31 3. 70–

ABSTRACT Objective: To conduct a serological screening for toxoplasmosis in the heel prick test and to evaluate its epidemiological aspects in newborns and postpartum women in Jataí, Goiás. Method: Cross-sectional epidemiological study for the biological screening of newborns in Jataí, Goiás. Results: The study participants amounted to 228 newborns, whose samples were collected between the third and seventh day of life. IgG antibodies against Toxoplasma gondii were detected in 40.79% (93/228) of the samples; out of these, 23.6% (22/93) had high IgG antibody titers, leading to the collection of two other peripheral blood samples and the detection of a decrease in these titers. Conclusion: The findings show the importance of strengthening actions in primary health care to prevent infection and training health professionals in this area to equip them with information regarding cases of reinfection and reactivation of infection in pregnant women, minimizing risks for babies. Objective Jataí Goiás Method Crosssectional Cross sectional Results 22 life 4079 40 79 40.79 93/228 93228 93 (93/228 236 23 6 23.6 22/93 2293 (22/93 titers Conclusion babies 2 407 4 7 40.7 93/22 9322 9 (93/22 23. 22/9 229 (22/9 40. 93/2 932 (93/2 22/ (22/ 93/ (93/ (22 (93 (2 (9 (

RESUMO Objetivo: Realizar a triagem sorológica da toxoplasmose no teste do pezinho e avaliar os aspectos epidemiológicos em recém-nascidos e puérperas de Jataí, Goiás. Método: Estudo epidemiológico transversal para a triagem biológica de recém-nascidos em Jataí, Goiás. Resultados: Participaram desta pesquisa 228 recém-nascidos, sendo coletadas amostras entre o terceiro e o sétimo dia de vida. Foram detectados anticorpos IgG anti Toxoplasma gondii em 40,79% (93/228) das amostras; destes, 23,6% (22/93) apresentaram altos títulos de anticorpos IgG e tiveram outras duas amostras de sangue periférico coletadas, sendo verificada a diminuição desses títulos. Conclusão: Tais achados demonstraram a importância do fortalecimento de ações junto à atenção primária à saúde para a prevenção da infecção, assim como a capacitação de profissionais da saúde que atuam nesta área, para que sejam munidos de informações referentes a casos de reinfecção e reativação da infecção em gestantes, minimizando os riscos para os bebês. Objetivo recémnascidos recém nascidos Jataí Goiás Método Resultados 22 recémnascidos, nascidos, vida 4079 40 79 40,79 93/228 93228 93 (93/228 destes 236 23 6 23,6 22/93 2293 (22/93 Conclusão área gestantes bebês 2 407 4 7 40,7 93/22 9322 9 (93/22 23, 22/9 229 (22/9 40, 93/2 932 (93/2 22/ (22/ 93/ (93/ (22 (93 (2 (9 (

RESUMEN Objetivo: Realizar un cribado serológico de la toxoplasmosis en la prueba del talón y evaluar sus aspectos epidemiológicos en los recién nacidos y puérperas en Jataí, Goiás. Método: Estudio epidemiológico transversal para el cribado biológico de los recién nacidos en Jataí, Goiás. Resultados: Participaron en el estudio 228 recién nacidos, cuyas muestras fueron recolectadas entre el tercer y séptimo día de vida. Se detectaron anticuerpos IgG contra Toxoplasma gondii en el 40,79% (93/228) de las muestras; de ellos el 23,6% (22/93) presentaban títulos elevados de anticuerpos IgG y de ellos se recogieron otras dos muestras de sangre periférica; se detectó una disminución de estos títulos. Conclusión: Los hallazgos muestran la importancia de fortalecer las acciones en la atención primaria de salud para prevenir la infección y capacitar a los profesionales de la salud en esta área para dotarlos de información sobre los casos de reinfección y reactivación de la infección en mujeres embarazadas, minimizando los riesgos para los bebés. Objetivo Jataí Goiás Método Resultados 22 vida 4079 40 79 40,79 93/228 93228 93 (93/228 236 23 6 23,6 22/93 2293 (22/93 periférica Conclusión embarazadas bebés 2 407 4 7 40,7 93/22 9322 9 (93/22 23, 22/9 229 (22/9 40, 93/2 932 (93/2 22/ (22/ 93/ (93/ (22 (93 (2 (9 (

Abstract Neospora caninum is a major cause of reproductive loss in cattle worldwide as it leads to abortion and animal repositioning. Although Toxoplasma gondii does not cause a reproductive problem in cattle, consuming raw or uncooked beef poses the risk of transmission. This study aimed to evaluate the occurrence of anti-N. caninum and anti-T. gondii antibodies in dairy cattle in the West and Northwest regions of São Paulo State, Brazil. A total of 653 serum samples from dairy cows were analyzed using an indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA). Epidemiological data from the farms were associated with the serological results of the animals by logistic regression based on the presence of antibodies. The frequencies of the antibodies against N. caninum and T. gondii were 41.6% (272/653) and 11.5% (75/653), respectively. A statistically significant association was observed between: the serum anti-N. caninum antibodies and breed, history of food supplementation for calves, introduction of outside animals that later presented reproductive problems, and history of reproductive problems by the trimester of gestation. The present study highlights the importance of neosporosis in dairy cattle in the study regions and that the inclusion of this parasite in the investigation of animals with reproductive disorders is important. repositioning transmission antiN. antiN anti N anti-N antiT. antiT T anti-T State Brazil 65 IFA. IFA . (IFA) 416 41 6 41.6 272/653 272653 272 (272/653 115 11 5 11.5 75/653, 75653 75/653 , 75 (75/653) respectively between breed calves gestation important (IFA 4 41. 272/65 27265 27 (272/65 1 11. 7565 75/65 7 (75/653 272/6 2726 2 (272/6 756 75/6 (75/65 272/ (272/ 75/ (75/6 (272 (75/ (27 (75 (2 (7 (

Resumo Neospora caninum é uma das principais causas de perda reprodutiva em bovinos em todo o mundo, pois leva ao aborto e ao reposicionamento animal. Embora o Toxoplasma gondii não cause problemas reprodutivos em bovinos, o consumo de carne bovina crua ou não cozida apresenta risco de transmissão. Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a ocorrência de anticorpos anti-N. caninum e anti-T. gondii em bovinos leiteiros nas regiões Oeste e Noroeste do Estado de São Paulo, Brasil. Um total de 653 amostras de soro de bovinos leiteiros, foi analisado utilizando-se o ensaio de imunofluorescência indireta (IFI). Os dados epidemiológicos das propriedades foram associados aos resultados sorológicos dos animais por meio de regressão logística. As frequências dos anticorpos contra N. caninum e T. gondii foram 41,6% (272/653) e 11,5% (75/653), respectivamente. Foi observada associação estatisticamente significativa entre: soropositividade para N. caninum e raça, histórico de suplementação alimentar para bezerros, introdução de animais externos que, posteriormente, apresentaram problemas reprodutivos e histórico de problemas reprodutivos no segundo trimestre de gestação. O presente estudo destaca a importância da neosporose em bovinos leiteiros, nas regiões de estudo, e a inclusão deste parasita na investigação de animais com distúrbios reprodutivos é fundamental. mundo animal transmissão antiN. antiN anti N anti-N antiT. antiT T anti-T Paulo Brasil 65 utilizandose utilizando se IFI. IFI . (IFI) logística 416 41 6 41,6 272/653 272653 272 (272/653 115 11 5 11,5 75/653, 75653 75/653 , 75 (75/653) respectivamente entre raça bezerros que posteriormente gestação fundamental (IFI 4 41, 272/65 27265 27 (272/65 1 11, 7565 75/65 7 (75/653 272/6 2726 2 (272/6 756 75/6 (75/65 272/ (272/ 75/ (75/6 (272 (75/ (27 (75 (2 (7 (

Interface areas shared by humans, domestic and wild animals may serve as high transmission contexts for Toxoplasma gondii. However, knowledge about the epidemiology of T. gondii in such areas is currently limited. The present study assessed the seroprevalence of T. gondii in different hosts from Mpumalanga, South Africa. Furthermore, we investigated the local knowledge and related practices about T. gondii by conducting a questionnaire study in the community. Blood samples were obtained and analysed for T. gondii antibodies using a commercial multispecies latex agglutination kit. The seroprevalence detected in humans (n = 160; patients showing signs of acute febrile illness), cats (n = 9), chickens (n = 336) and goats (n = 358) was 8.8%, 0.0%, 4.2% and 11.2%, respectively. Seroprevalence in impalas (n = 97), kudus (n = 55), wild dogs (n = 54), wildebeests (n = 43), warthogs (n = 97) and zebras (n = 68) was calculated at 5.2%, 7.3%, 100.0%, 20.9%, 13.4% and 9.1%, respectively. The questionnaire revealed that 63.0% of household owners were subsistence farmers, and 35.9% were pet owners. A high level of female participation was found (75.3%) when compared to male participation (24.7%). The results show a low circulation of T. gondii in the domestic cycle and suggest the presence of possible bridges between the wildlife cycle and the surrounding domestic cycle. CONTRIBUTION: The study contributes to identifying transmission patterns and risk factors of T. gondii within human and animal populations. This topic fits within the scope of the journal presenting original research in veterinary science, with the focus on wild and domestic populations on the African continent on a topic of universal importance.