Abstract Leishmaniosis is a disease caused by protozoan parasites of the genus Leishmania and, in the New World, is transmitted to mammals through the bite of blood-sucking dipteran insects of the genus Lutzomyia. Canines are susceptible to infection, developing the visceral form (VL) and the cutaneous form (CL) of the disease. Diagnostic methods include direct observation of the parasite by light microscopy, serology, or molecular biology techniques in samples from dogs with clinical signs and/or clinical suspicion. In this word, the usefulness of a nested PCR designed for the diagnosis of this pathology in dogs was evaluated. A total of 18 samples of EDTA pre-treated dog’s whole blood were analyzed. Dogs were from the city of Corrientes and presented clinical suspicion of suffering from leishmaniasis. From the samples, deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) was extracted and two successive rounds of amplification of a sequence that codes for the small subunit of ribosomal RNA were carried out. The results obtained from the nested PCRs were compared with this obtained from the direct parasitological method (gold standard). The applied technique showed a sensitivity of 100%, specificity of 75%, positive predictive value of 67% and negative predictive value of 100%, turning it into a valuable tool for diagnosing canine leishmaniosis.

Resumen La leishmaniosis es una enfermedad causada por parásitos protozoarios del género Leishmania y transmitida a mamíferos mediante la picadura de insectos dípteros hematófagos del género Lutzomyia en el nuevo mundo. Los caninos son susceptibles de adquirir la forma visceral y la forma cutánea de la enfermedad. Los métodos de diagnóstico incluyen observación directa del parásito por microscopía óptica, serología o técnicas de biología molecular en muestras de perros con signos clínicos evidentes y/o sospecha clínica. En este estudio se evaluó la utilidad de una reacción en cadena de la polimerasa anidada (PCRn) para el diagnóstico de dicha patología en perros. Se analizaron 18 muestras de sangre entera anticoagulada con EDTA de perros de la ciudad de Corrientes con sospecha clínica de padecer leishmaniosis. A partir de las mismas, se extrajo ácido desoxiribonucleico (ADN) y se realizaron dos rondas de amplificación sucesivas de una secuencia que codifica para la subunidad pequeña de ARN ribosomal. Los resultados obtenidos de las PCR anidadas fueron comparados con los resultados obtenidos a partir del método parasitológico directo considerado como gold standard. La técnica aplicada mostró sensibilidad del 100%, especificidad del 75%, valor predictivo positivo del 67% y valor predictivo negativo del 100% lo que la convierte en una herramienta útil para el diagnóstico de leishmaniosis canina.

Abstract The present study evaluated the hematological, antiparasitic and growth responses in tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum) fed with diets supplemented with the microalgae Arthrospira platensis and Chlorella vulgaris (0%; 10% A. platensis; 10% C. vulgaris; and 5% A. platensis+5% C. vulgaris). Tambaqui (n=60, 62.57 ± 8.76 g) were fed for 20 days with experimental diets. Blood samples collection was done to determine hematological parameters, and gills were removed to identify and count monogenetic parasites. Supplementation with A. platensis 10% reduced red blood cells count, in consequence mean corpuscular volume and mean hemoglobin concentration increased. Total leukocyte, monocyte, eosinophil, and basophil counts reduced with the use of A. platensis. Higher monocytes, eosinophil, and basophil numbers in tambaqui fed with diet supplemented with 10% C. vulgaris were observed and may have been due to the presence of immunostimulants in this microalga composition. Reduction on total cholesterol in tambaqui that received both microalgae (A. platensis 5%+C. vulgaris 5%) may indicate that combined supplementation presented greater benefits to the health for C. macropomum than separately. Both microalgae were efficient against monogenetic parasites of tambaqui. Thus, the dietary use of the microalgae A. platensis and C. vulgaris provided immunostimulant and antiparasitic efficacy in C. macropomum. Colossoma 0% 0 (0% 10 A C 5 platensis5 platensis+5 vulgaris. . vulgaris) n=60, n60 n 60 (n=60 6257 62 57 62.5 876 8 76 8.7 g 2 parameters increased leukocyte monocyte eosinophil monocytes composition (A 5C 5%+C separately Thus (0 1 platensis+ n=60 n6 6 (n=6 625 62. 87 7 8. ( n=6 (n= n= (n

Resumo O presente estudo avaliou as respostas hematológicas, antiparasitária e de crescimento de tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum) após alimentação com dietas suplementadas com microalgas Arthospira platensis e Chlorella vulgaris (0%; 10% A. platensis; 10% C. vulgaris; e 5% A. platensis+5% C. vulgaris). Exemplares de tambaqui (n=60, 62,57±8,76 g) foram alimentados por 20 dias com as dietas experimentais. Amostras de sangue foram coletadas para determinação dos parâmetros hematológicos e brânquias foram retiradas para contagem de parasitos monogenéticos. A suplementação com A. platensis 10% reduziu o RBC, consequentemente aumentando os valores de VCM e HCM. As contagens de leucócitos (total) e de monócitos, eosinófilos e basófilos reduziram com o uso de A. platensis. Números altos de monócitos, eosinófilos e basófilos em tambaqui alimentado com dietas com 10% C. vulgaris foram observados e podem ter ocorrido devido à presença de imunoestimulantes na composição da microalga utilizada. Redução dos níveis plasmáticos de colesterol total em tambaqui indicou que a inclusão das duas microalgas (A. platensis 5%+C. vulgaris 5%) pode indicar que maiores benefícios à saúde do peixe do que quando separadamente suplementada. Ambas mostraram eficácia contra parasitos monogenéticos das brânquias de tambaqui. Assim, conclui-se que o uso das microalgas C. vulgaris e A. platensis promovem ação imunoestimulante com eficácia antiparasitária em C. macropomum. hematológicas Colossoma macropomum 0% 0 (0% 10 C 5 platensis5 platensis+5 vulgaris. . vulgaris) n=60, n60 n 60 (n=60 6257876 62 57 8 76 62,57±8,7 g 2 experimentais RBC HCM (total monócitos utilizada (A 5C 5%+C suplementada Assim concluise conclui se (0 1 platensis+ n=60 n6 6 (n=6 625787 7 62,57±8, ( n=6 (n= 62578 62,57±8 n= (n 6257 62,57± 625 62,57 62,5 62,

Abstract Hepatozoon spp. are the most common haemoparasites reported from reptiles around the world, however, only six species have been described infecting crocodilians. In Brazil, Hepatozoon caimani Carini, 1909 is currently the only recognized species from the caiman hosts. This study provides new data on the diversity of species of Hepatozoon infecting Caiman crocodilus (Linnaeus) using molecular data and phylogenetic analysis, with additional support of morphological data of developmental stages from host blood and tissue. Forty-four individuals were collected and screened for haemogregarines, and blood and tissue samples were analysed by light microscopy with 31 (70.45%) infected. Hepatozoon spp. blood developmental stages included immature and mature gamonts with or without cytoplasmic vacuoles and free gamonts. Additionally, merogonic developmental stages were found in the liver and spleen of infected hosts. Based on the morphological and molecular data, this study identified two possible different species of Hepatozoon, being one of them the H. caimani with intragenotypic divergence. spp world however crocodilians Brazil Carini 190 hosts Linnaeus (Linnaeus analysis Fortyfour Forty four haemogregarines 3 70.45% 7045 70 45 (70.45% Additionally H divergence 19 70.45 704 7 4 (70.45 1 70.4 (70.4 70. (70. (70 (7 (

Resumo Hepatozoon spp. são os hemoparasitas mais comuns relatados em répteis em todo o mundo, no entanto, apenas seis espécies foram descritas infectando crocodilianos. No Brasil, Hepatozoon caimani Carini, 1909 é atualmente a única espécie reconhecida dos hospedeiros jacarés. Este estudo fornece novos dados sobre a diversidade de espécies de Hepatozoon que infectam Caiman crocodilus (Linnaeus) utilizando dados moleculares e análise filogenética, com suporte adicional fornecido através de dados morfológicos de estágios de desenvolvimento do sangue e tecido do hospedeiro. Quarenta e quatro indivíduos foram coletados e triados para hemogregarinas, e amostras de sangue e tecidos foram analisadas por microscopia óptica com 31 (70,45%) infectados. Os estágios de desenvolvimento do sangue incluíram gamontes imaturos e maduros com ou sem vacúolos citoplasmáticos e gamontes livres. Além disso, foram encontrados estágios de desenvolvimento merogônico no fígado e baço de hospedeiros infectados. Com base nos dados morfológicos e moleculares, este estudo identificou duas possíveis espécies diferentes de Hepatozoon, sendo uma delas, o H. caimani com divergência intragenotípica. spp mundo entanto crocodilianos Brasil Carini 190 jacarés Linnaeus (Linnaeus filogenética hospedeiro hemogregarinas 3 70,45% 7045 70 45 (70,45% infectados livres disso delas H intragenotípica 19 70,45 704 7 4 (70,45 1 70,4 (70,4 70, (70, (70 (7 (

RESUMO Amostras de sangue e fezes de perdiz chukar (Alectoris chukar), faisão-albino (Phasianus colchicus), faisão-prateado (Lophura nycthemera), periquito-de-rosa (Psittacula krameri) e perus (Meleagris gallopavo) foram analisadas para verificar a prevalência de parasitas. Para registrar os parasitas, essas cinco espécies de aves foram colocadas em gaiolas separadas no Centro de Conservação e Pesquisa de Aves, Departamento de Vida Selvagem e Ecologia, Universidade de Veterinária e Ciências Animais, Lahore, Paquistão. Cem amostras fecais e 100 amostras de sangue para cada espécie de ave foram inspecionadas para analisar os parasitas internos. Durante o presente estudo, foram examinadas 17 espécies de endoparasitas, 14 de amostras fecais e 3 de sangue. Foram estudadas duas espécies de ectoparasitas, ou seja, o ácaro Dermanyssus gallinae 42% e o carrapato aviário Args persicus 41%. Os parasitas sanguíneos incluíram Plasmodium juxtanucleare 50%, Leucoctoyzoon simond com prevalência parasitária de 40% e Aegyptinella pullorum com prevalência parasitária de 40%. As espécies parasitas registradas em amostras fecais incluíram 6 espécies de nematoides viz. Allodpa suctoria 2%, Syngamus traqueia com prevalência parasitária de 60%, Capillaria annulata 37,5%, Ascardia galli 24%, Capillaria anatis 40% e Heterakis gallinarum 28,3%. Da mesma forma, duas espécies de trematódeos viz. Prosthogonimus ovatus com prevalência parasitária de 50% e Prosthogonimus macrorchis 21% também foram documentados em amostras fecais de aves. Espécies de cestoide único Raillietina echinobothrida com prevalência parasitária de 72% e 3 espécies de protozoários, isto é, Eimeria maxima com prevalência parasitária de 21%, Giardia lamblia 41% e Histomonas meleagridis 18% foram documentadas durante a análise corpológica. Em nossa recomendação, o saneamento adequado, medicação e vacinação de invólucros de pássaros são sugeridos para evitar parasitas.

Abstract Blood and fecal samples of chukar partridge (Alectoris chukar), albino pheasant (Phasianus colchicus), silver pheasant (Lophura nycthemera), rose-ringed parakeet (Psittacula krameri) and turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo) were analyzed to check parasitic prevalence. To record parasites these five avian species were placed kept in separate cages at Avian Conservation and Research Center, Department of Wildlife an Ecology, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan. 100 fecal and 100 blood samples for each bird species were inspected to analyze internal parasites. During present study, 17 species of endoparasites 14 from fecal samples and three from blood were examined. Two species of ectoparasites i.e. mite Dermanyssus gallinae 42% and fowl ticks Args persicus 41%were studied. Blood parasites included Plasmodium juxtanucleare 50%, Leucoctoyzoon simond having parasitic prevalence 40%, and Aegyptinella pullorum having parasitic prevalence of 40%. Parasitic species recorded from fecal samples included 6 species of nematodes viz. Allodpa suctoria 2%. Syngamus trachea with parasitic prevalence of 60%, Capillaria annulata 37.5%, Ascardia galli 24%, Capillaria anatis 40% and Heterakis gallinarum 28.3%. Similarly, two species of trematodes viz. Prosthogonimus ovatus having parasitic prevalence of 50% and Prosthogonimus macrorchis 21% were also documented from fecal avian samples . Single cestode species Raillietina echinobothrida having parasitic prevalence of 72% and 3 protozoan species i.e. Eimeria maxima having parasitic prevalence of 21%, Giardia lamblia 41% and Histomonas meleagridis 18% were documented during corpological analysis. In our recommendation, proper sanitation, medication and vaccination of bird’s enclousres are suggested to avoid parasites.

BACKGROUND Malaria is an infectious disease caused by protozoan parasites belonging to the genus Plasmodium. Human-to-human transmission depends on a mosquito vector; thus, the interruption of parasite transmission from humans to mosquitoes is an important approach in the fight against malaria. The parasite stages infectious to mosquitoes are the gametocytes, sexual stages that are ingested by the vector during a blood meal and transform into male and female gametes in the midgut. Immunity against sexual stage antigens expressed by gametocytes, gametes, and the zygote formed after fertilisation can interrupt the parasite sexual cycle in the mosquito. This transmission blocking immunity is mediated by specific antibodies ingested during the mosquito blood feed, inhibiting the parasite development in the midgut. Merozoite thrombospondin related anonymous protein (MTRAP) is a merozoite and gametocyte surface protein essential for gamete egress from erythrocytes and for parasite transmission to mosquitoes. OBJECTIVES Here, we evaluated the potential of the P. berghei MTRAP to elicit antibodies with the ability to inhibit gamete fertilisation in vitro. METHODS We expressed a soluble recombinant PbMTRAP and used it to immunise BALB/c mice. The transmission blocking activity of the anti-rPbMTRAP antibodies was tested through in vivo challenge experiments followed by in vitro conversion assays. FINDINGS Immunisations with the rPbMTRAP induced a strong antibody response and the antibodies recognised the native protein by Western Blot and IFA. Anti-rPbMTRAP present in the blood stream of immunised mice partially inhibited gamete conversion into ookinetes. CONCLUSION Our results indicate that antibodies to PbMTRAP may reduce but are not sufficient to completely block transmission. Plasmodium Humantohuman Human human thus malaria gametocytes midgut feed (MTRAP Here P BALBc BALB c antirPbMTRAP anti assays IFA AntirPbMTRAP Anti ookinetes

ABSTRACT Asymptomatic infection (the absence or inapparent signs and symptoms) has been observed in many endemic areas of leishmaniasis, however, little is known about the parasitological and immunological factors associated with this type of infection. This study aimed to identify the in vitro expression of IFN-γ in asymptomatic carriers of viable Leishmania parasites. Asymptomatic infection was identified using the Montenegro skin test in an at-risk population from Yucatan, Mexico. Parasite viability was evinced in the blood by 7SL RNA transcripts amplification. The expression of mRNA IFN-γ was analyzed in peripheral blood mononuclear cells stimulated with soluble Leishmania antigen, using RT-qPCR. Parasite viability was observed in 33.3 % (5/15) of asymptomatic subjects. No differences were found in the expression of IFN-γ between asymptomatic and healthy subjects, and no correlation was found between the presence of viable parasites and the expression of IFN-γ. This study demonstrates the persistence of Leishmania parasites in the absence of an in vitro IFN-γ response in asymptomatic carriers from Mexico. symptoms leishmaniasis however IFNγ IFN γ atrisk at risk Yucatan Mexico SL amplification antigen RTqPCR. RTqPCR RT qPCR. qPCR RT-qPCR 333 33 3 33. 5/15 515 5 15 (5/15 subjects IFNγ. γ. 5/1 51 1 (5/1 5/ (5/ (5 (

Abstract Myxozoans are obligatory parasites and can be found in various organs and bloodstreams of fish, thus, the objective of this work was to describe the occurrence of Myxobolus spp. in the circulating blood of Metynnis lippincottianus from River Curiaú, Macapá City, eastern Amazon, Brazil. The samples of M. lippincottianus (11) were caught using cast net and gillnets. The fish blood was collected by puncturing the caudal vessel, using needles and syringes containing 10% of EDTA solution. Blood smear were prepared and panchromatic stained with a combination of May Grunwald-Giemsa-Wright, for observation and examination of the parasitic structures in optical microscope. Tissues from the kidney was examined using specific stereoscopic binoculars to check for the presence of cysts, lesions and parasites. The prevalence of Myxobolus spp. infecting the circulating blood of the fish was 36.36% (4/11) and 15 spores of mixosporyds were visualized. Myxobolus spp. had a prevalence of 54.55% (6/11) in host's kidney tissue and the morphometric spores data converge with observed in the blood. The morphological characteristics of the spores in the blood samples revealed two morphotypes of Myxobolus spp. This is the sixth occurrence recorded of Myxobolus spp. infecting fish blood in Brazil. thus spp Curiaú City Amazon Brazil M 11 (11 gillnets vessel 10 solution GrunwaldGiemsaWright, GrunwaldGiemsaWright Grunwald Giemsa Wright, Wright Grunwald-Giemsa-Wright microscope cysts 3636 36 36.36 4/11 411 4 (4/11 1 visualized 5455 54 55 54.55 6/11 611 6 (6/11 hosts host s (1 363 3 36.3 4/1 41 (4/1 545 5 54.5 6/1 61 (6/1 ( 36. 4/ (4/ 54. 6/ (6/ (4 (6

Resumo Mixozoários são parasitos obrigatórios e podem ser encontrados em diversos órgãos e corrente sanguínea dos peixes. Objetivou-se neste trabalho descrever a ocorrência de Myxobolus spp. no sangue circulante de Metynnis lippincottianus, oriundo do rio Curiaú, cidade de Macapá, Amazônia Oriental, Brasil. Os exemplares de M. lippincottianus (n=11) foram capturados, usando-se tarrafas e redes de emalhar. O sangue de cada peixe foi coletado por punção do vaso caudal, com o auxílio de agulhas e seringas contendo EDTA 10%. Após, realizaram-se extensões sanguíneas e coloração pancromática com May Grünwald-Giemsa-Wright, para a observação e exame das estruturas parasitárias em microscópio óptico. Tecidos do rim foram examinados, utilizando-se estereomicroscópio binocular para checar a presença de cistos, lesões e parasitos. A prevalência de Myxobolus spp., infectando o sangue circulante dos peixes, foi de 36,36% (4/11), e um total de 15 esporos de mixosporídeos foram visualizados. Myxobolus spp. teve prevalência de 54,55% (6/11) no tecido renal do hospedeiro, e os dados morfométricos dos esporos convergem com os observados no sangue. As características morfológicas dos esporos, nas amostras de sangue evidenciaram dois morfotipos de Myxobolus spp. Esse é o sexto registro de ocorrência de Myxobolus spp. infectando o sangue de peixes no Brasil. Objetivouse Objetivou se spp Curiaú Macapá Oriental Brasil M n=11 n11 n 11 (n=11 capturados usandose usando emalhar caudal 10 10% Após realizaramse realizaram GrünwaldGiemsaWright, GrünwaldGiemsaWright Grünwald Giemsa Wright, Wright Grünwald-Giemsa-Wright óptico examinados utilizandose utilizando cistos 3636 36 36,36 4/11, 411 4/11 , 4 (4/11) 1 visualizados 5455 54 55 54,55 6/11 611 6 (6/11 hospedeiro n=1 n1 (n=1 363 3 36,3 41 4/1 (4/11 545 5 54,5 6/1 61 (6/1 n= (n= 36, 4/ (4/1 54, 6/ (6/ (n (4/ (6 (4 (

RESUMO As espécies de Plasmodium são responsáveis pela transmissão da malária, que ainda é uma das doenças mais perigosas para os seres humanos no mundo. Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar o efeito supressor do SB sobre a parasitemia em camundongos infectados com Plasmodium chabaudi. Um total de 30 camundongos livres da doença foram divididos aleatoriamente em seis grupos. O primeiro grupo de controle não infectado recebeu apenas água destilada diariamente por 7 dias por via oral. Depois de serem infectados com 106 de P. chabaudi nos outros cinco grupos, os camundongos foram submetidos à gavagem com 0,2mL/camundongo de uma solução contendo 25%, 50% ou 100% de SB, respectivamente. O quinto grupo recebeu oralmente 10mg/kg de fosfato de cloroquina (CQ). O sexto conjunto de camundongos serviu como o grupo infectado. Após a administração dos tratamentos durante um teste de supressão que durou cinco dias, foi realizado um exame diário de esfregaços de sangue corados com Giemsa. A bile de carneiro foi capaz de reduzir a parasitemia de forma quase semelhante ao medicamento de referência usado, a cloroquina. Além disso, a bile diminuiu significativamente a taxa de diarreia da infecção em camundongos, a taxa de sobrevivência dos camundongos, a porcentagem de parasitemia e a taxa de supressão. A alteração histológica causada pelo parasita foi aprimorada pela SB. Após o tratamento, houve também um aumento nas quantidades das enzimas hepáticas fosfatase alcalina, aspartato aminotransferase e alanina aminotransferase. Os resultados indicam que a bile tem atividade antimalárica e pode controlar a porcentagem de parasitemia e a supressão do parasita. São necessárias mais investigações para determinar os mecanismos de ação da bile in vivo. malária mundo 3 grupos oral 10 P 02mLcamundongo mLcamundongo 0 2mL camundongo mL 25 25% 50 100 respectivamente 10mgkg mgkg 10mg kg mg CQ. CQ . (CQ) Giemsa usado disso tratamento alcalina vivo 1 2 5 (CQ

ABSTRACT Plasmodium species are responsible for the transmission of malaria, which is still one of the most dangerous diseases to humans in the world. This study aimed to evaluate the suppressive effect of SB on parasitemia in mice infected with Plasmodium chabaudi infection. A total of 30 disease-free mice were randomly assigned to six groups. The first control non-infected group received only distilled water daily for 7 days by oral route. After being infected with 106 of P. chabaudi in the other five groups, the mice were gavaged with 0.2mL/mice of a solution containing either 25%, 50%, or 100% of SB, respectively. The fifth group orally received 10mg/ kg chloroquine phosphate (CQ). The sixth set of mice served as the infected group. Following the administration of treatments during a suppression test that lasted for five days, a daily examination of blood smears stained with Giemsa was performed. Sheep bile was able to decrease parasitemia nearly to the used reference drug, chloroquine. In addition, bile significantly decreased the diarrhea rate of infection in mice, the survival rate of mice, the parasitemia percentage, and the suppression ratio. The parasite's caused histological change was enhanced by the SB. After treatment, there was also a rise in the amounts of the liver enzymes alkaline phosphatase, aspartate aminotransferase, and alanine aminotransferase. Findings indicate that bile has antimalarial activity and can control parasitemia percentage and parasite suppression. We need further investigations to determine the mechanisms of action of the bile in vivo. malaria world 3 diseasefree disease free groups noninfected non route 10 P 02mLmice mLmice 0 2mL mL 25 25% 50 50% 100 respectively 10mg mg CQ. CQ . (CQ) performed drug addition ratio parasites s treatment phosphatase aminotransferase vivo 1 2 5 (CQ

ABSTRACT: Cattle trypanosomiasis imposes significant economic burdens on the global livestock industry. The causative agents of this disease belong to the protozoan Trypanosoma genus. This study aims to perform detection (parasitological and molecular) and genetic characterization to analyze Trypanosoma spp. in cattle from 15 municipalities in the state of Rio de Janeiro, focusing on the 18S rDNA and Cathepsin-L (CatL) gene of Trypanosoma vivax and Trypanosoma theileri. A total of 389 blood samples from 15 dairy cattle farms in the state of Rio de Janeiro were collected, and DNA was extracted for subsequent PCR amplification of Trypanosoma spp. 18S rDNA and CatL genes. The resulting amplicons underwent sequencing and alignment for phylogenetic analysis, with comparisons made to GenBank isolates. Concerning parasitological analysis, blood smears presented 4.4% of positive cattle (n=17/389) for T. vivax and did not show any trypomastigote forms of T. theileri. The absolute frequency of Trypanosoma spp. through molecular detection targeting 18S rDNA was 11.6% (45/389). However, when performing species-specific PCRs, the T. vivax frequency, determined through CatL gene PCR, was 12.8%, and the T. theileri frequency was 3.6%. Phylogenetic analysis based on 18S rDNA revealed low diversity among T. vivax sequences, suggesting potential host segregation. This study emphasizes the high frequency of positive samples by PCR when compared to direct parasitological exams. Additionally, T. vivax phylogeny targeting 18S rDNA hints at sequence clustering related to host species. Importantly, this investigation unveils, for the first time in Rio de Janeiro’s cattle, the circulation of T. theileri lineage ThI, encompassing genotypes IIB and IF. This discovery expands our understanding of this parasite’s geographical distribution and genetic diversity. ABSTRACT industry genus spp 1 S CathepsinL Cathepsin L (CatL 38 collected genes isolates 44 4 4.4 n=17/389 n17389 n 17 (n=17/389 T 116 11 6 11.6 45/389. 45389 45/389 . 45 (45/389) However speciesspecific species specific PCRs 128 12 8 12.8% 36 3 3.6% sequences segregation exams Additionally Importantly unveils Janeiros s ThI IF parasites parasite 4. n=17/38 n1738 (n=17/38 11. 4538 45/38 (45/389 12.8 3.6 n=17/3 n173 (n=17/3 453 45/3 (45/38 12. 3. n=17/ n17 (n=17/ 45/ (45/3 n=17 n1 (n=17 (45/ n=1 (n=1 (45 n= (n= (4 (n (

RESUMO: A tripanossomíase bovina impõe significativos ônus econômicos à indústria pecuária global. Os agentes causadores dessa doença pertencem a protozoários do gênero Trypanosoma. Objetivou-se, com este estudo, realizar detecção (parasitológica e molecular) e caracterização genética de Trypanosoma spp. em bovinos de 15 municipalidades do estado do Rio de Janeiro, com foco na sequência 18S rDNA e no gene Cathepsin-L (CatL) de Trypanosoma vivax e Trypanosoma theileri. Um total de 389 amostras de sangue de 15 fazendas leiteiras no estado do Rio de Janeiro foram coletadas, e o DNA foi extraído para subsequente amplificação por PCR dos genes 18S rDNA e CatL de Trypanosoma spp. Os amplicons resultantes foram submetidos a sequenciamento e alinhamento para análise filogenética, com comparações realizadas com isolados do GenBank. No que se refere à análise parasitológica, os esfregaços de sangue apresentaram 4,4% de bovinos positivos (n=17/389) para T. vivax e não mostraram nenhuma forma tripomastigota de T. theileri. A frequência absoluta de Trypanosoma spp. através da detecção molecular visando 18S rDNA foi de 11,6% (45/389). No entanto, ao realizar PCRs específicos de espécies, a frequência de T. vivax, determinada por PCR do gene CatL foi de 12,8%, e a frequência de T. theileri foi de 3,6%. A análise filogenética com base no 18S rDNA revelou baixa diversidade entre as sequências de T. vivax, sugerindo uma possível segregação de hospedeiros. Este estudo enfatiza a alta frequência de amostra positiva pela PCR quando comparada com a parasitológica direta. Além disso, a filogenia de T. vivax direcionada ao 18S rDNA sugere agrupamento de sequências relacionado à espécie hospedeira. Importante destacar que esta investigação revela, pela primeira vez no gado do Rio de Janeiro, a circulação da linhagem ThI de T. theileri, abrangendo os genótipos IIB e IF. Esta descoberta amplia nosso entendimento sobre a distribuição geográfica e diversidade genética desse parasito. RESUMO global Objetivouse, Objetivouse Objetivou se, Objetivou-se spp 1 S CathepsinL Cathepsin L (CatL 38 coletadas GenBank 44 4 4,4 n=17/389 n17389 n 17 (n=17/389 T 116 11 6 11,6 45/389. 45389 45/389 . 45 (45/389) entanto espécies 128 12 8 12,8% 36 3 3,6% hospedeiros direta disso hospedeira revela IF parasito 4, n=17/38 n1738 (n=17/38 11, 4538 45/38 (45/389 12,8 3,6 n=17/3 n173 (n=17/3 453 45/3 (45/38 12, 3, n=17/ n17 (n=17/ 45/ (45/3 n=17 n1 (n=17 (45/ n=1 (n=1 (45 n= (n= (4 (n (

Abstract Isopods of the suborder Cymothoida include ectoparasite species that cause physical damage and affect the development of the host by feeding on blood and tissues. On fishes, these parasites attach themselves to the skin, fins, gills, and oral cavity using claws on articulated legs. The ability to remain hidden in cavities even after the fish is caught enables isopods to be transported to new areas along with the host, making these parasites potential co-invaders. Understanding the role and environmental impact of parasites is essential, although research on parasitism in the context of biological invasions lags in comparison to general research on such invasions. Previous records indicate only two species of parasitic isopods in the São Francisco River basin. However, the present study reports the first record of two other species (Braga patagonica and Braga nasuta) on Pygocentrus piraya and in the basin itself. This demonstrates a lack of knowledge regarding fish parasites in the region, despite the presence of other parasites. Collaborations with research groups conducting fish sampling in the basin can contribute to expanding knowledge on these parasites and the training of human resources in fish parasitology. The present study provides important information on the presence of unidentified parasitic isopods on fishes in the São Francisco River basin, underscoring the need for further studies and expanding the geographic distribution of these parasites, as well as the host list for these isopods. tissues skin fins gills legs coinvaders. coinvaders co invaders. invaders co-invaders essential However nasuta itself region parasitology

Abstract Variations in hematological profile in reptiles can be caused by multiple factors, including parasites presence. Our goals were to identify and morphologically describe blood cells of Liolaemus pacha and analyze their relationship with sex, body condition, individual reproductive/post-reproductive period and mite infestation. Blood smear analyses do not indicate the presence of hemoparasites, suggesting that the mites Neopterygosoma do not serve as vectors for these organisms, as has been proposed for other genera of ectoparasitic mites. In post-reproductive period, there was a reduction in specimens’ body condition and a higher leukocyte count in uninfected lizards. This could be a consequence of the testosterone effects, in higher concentration during the reproductive season, which can increase the metabolic rate, decreasing feeding rate. Infested and non-infested lizards showed no differences in body condition, as well as in leukocyte count, hence the host’s immune system could be developing infestation tolerance. Infested specimens had a higher count of monocytes, thrombocytes, heterophils and lymphocytes. Based on cells function, mites’ effect could be associated with inflammatory processes, allergic reactions or infectious diseases. These results suggested a complex interaction between lizards’ hematological parameters and factors associated to ectoparasites or body conditions. We consider this work as a diagnostic tool for genus Liolaemus, to evaluate health quality, with relevance to the conservation or management of this lizard’s genus. sex reproductive/postreproductive reproductivepostreproductive reproductive/post post hemoparasites organisms postreproductive effects season rate noninfested non infested hosts host s tolerance monocytes thrombocytes lymphocytes function processes diseases conditions quality lizard reproductivepost

Resumen Introducción: Los tripanosomas son hemoparásitos que pueden observarse circulando en la sangre periférica de las aves. Los estudios parasitológicos en aves en el medio natural son escasos, pero son importantes para la investigación relacionada con la transmisión, el mantenimiento del ciclo biológico y la abundancia, entre otros aspectos parasitológicos. Objetivo: Describir infecciones por Trypanosoma sp. en aves de la Amazonia brasileña, así como la prevalencia, características morfológicas y morfométricas de este hemoparásito. Métodos: En la Floresta Nacional de Tapajós, capturamos un total de 125 aves, la mayoría del orden Passeriformes. Obtuvimos muestras de sangre por punción de la vena cubital del ala con agujas estériles de insulina. Con un tubo capilar microhematocrito, obtuvimos alícuotas de sangre. Realizamos frotis de sangre por triplicado y teñimos con el método de Giemsa. Visualizamos los morfotipos de Trypanosoma sp. al microscopio óptico con lentes objetivos de 40 X y 100 X. Para determinar las características morfométricas de Trypanosomatidae, usamos el paquete informático Zen Blue Edition 2. Resultados: Observamos la presencia de hemoparásitos en la forma tripomastigote en ejemplares de la familia de aves Thamnophilidae, Dendrocolaptidae y Conopophagidae, con baja prevalencia. Solo detectamos un morfotipo de Trypanosoma sp. Conclusión: Reportamos la infección por Trypanosoma sp. en especies de importancia ecológica, como Phlegopsis nigromaculata en peligro de extinción en Brasil. La morfología y morfometría del morfotipo encontrado puede contribuir con descripciones más detalladas de estos hemoparásitos.

Abstract Introduction: Trypanosomes are hemoparasites that can be observed circulating in the peripheral blood of birds. Parasitological studies in birds in their natural environment are neglected, but are important for research relating to transmission, maintenance of the biological cycle, and abundance, among other parasitological aspects. Objective: To describe infections by Trypanosoma sp. in birds in the Brazilian Amazon, as well as the prevalence, morphological and morphometric characteristics of this hemoparasite. Methods: In the Tapajós National Forest, we captured a total of 125 birds, mostly from the order Passeriformes. We obtained blood samples from the ulnar vein using sterile insulin needles, and aliquots of blood using a microhematocrit capillary tube. We made blood smears in triplicate and stained with the Giemsa method. We viewd the morphotypes of the Trypanosoma sp. under the light microscope with objective lenses of 40 X and 100 X. To determine the morphometric characteristics of Trypanosomatidae, we used the Zen Blue Edition 2 software package. Results: We observed the presence of hemoparasites in the trypomastigote form in specimens of Thamnophilidae, Dendrocolaptidae and Conopophagidae, with low prevalence. Only one morphotype of Trypanosoma sp. was detected and measurement. Conclusions: We report the infection by Trypanosoma sp. in species of ecological importance, such as Phlegopsis nigromaculata, endangered in Brazil. The morphology and morphometry of the morphotype found could contribute to more detailed descriptions of these hemoparasites.

To comprehend the effects of emerging infectious diseases on both human and animal health, it is necessary to understand the ecology of pathogens that have wildlife reservoirs. In this study, we determined the prevalence of the parasites Trypanosoma spp. and filarial nematodes in the bloodstream of birds in and around the Kruger National Park, South Africa, partly to test the hypothesis that season influences parasitaemia. Other factors considered were foraging habits, gregariousness or solitariness, and whether location might facilitate contact between birds and parasite vectors. Microscopy was used to screen stained blood smears prepared from 685 captured birds of 87 species. It was found that 3.9% of the birds were infected with filarial nematodes (as reflected by the presence of microfilariae) and 3.1% with Trypanosoma spp. No cases of co-infection with both types of parasite were encountered. Ground-foraging and solitary birds had the highest parasite prevalences compared to other birds. Infections were recorded throughout the year at all six sites. The respective percentages of birds harbouring the two parasite types in the dry season were the same (both 2.3%), whereas microfilariae dominated in the wet season (6.9%) and the prevalence of Trypanosoma spp. then was 1.4%. These findings represent new knowledge concerning avian haemoparasite prevalence in an Afrotropical setting - something that has so far been poorly studied. SIGNIFICANCE: • The determination by microscopy of the prevalence of microfilariae of filarial nematodes (3.9%) and Trypanosoma spp. (3.1%) in the peripheral blood of 685 birds of 87 species provides new knowledge on birds in Africa. • Unexpectedly, ground-foraging and solitary birds had the highest parasite prevalences. • The possibility of human infection with these two types of avian parasites is considered.

RESUMEN Se evaluó la prevalencia de infección por parásitos tripanosomátidos en Didelphis marsupialis y su relación con los aspectos morfológicos/etarios en una zona rural de El Carmen de Bolívar, Colombia. En cinco visitas (2018-2019) se instalaron trampas Tomahawk® en los ecótopos peridoméstico y silvestre en la Vereda El Alférez, durante tres noches consecutivas/visita. A los animales recolectados, se les determinaron medidas corporales, sexo y edad; y se les extrajo sangre por cardiopuntura, previa sedación, para extracción del ácido desoxirribonucleico (ADN) total y amplificación de la región conservada del ADN de minicírculos de kinetoplasto (ADNk) de parásitos tripanosomátidos. La asociación entre parámetros morfológicos de los didélfidos y su frecuencia de infección por parásitos tripanosomátidos fue determinada mediante una regresión binomial. Se recolectaron 30 individuos de D. marsupialis (60,0% hembras y 40,0% machos/66,7% adultos y 33,3% juveniles). El diagnóstico molecular reveló una frecuencia de infección por parásitos tripanosomátidos del 46,7%. El estadio (p=0,024) fue determinante para la infección. Se discute el papel de D. marsupialis como potencial reservorio de parásitos tripanosomátidos en la zona evaluada.

ABSTRACT We studied the prevalence of infection by trypanosomatid parasites in Didelphis marsupialis and its relationship with morphological/age aspects in a rural area of El Carmen de Bolivar, Colombia. Five visits were made to the Vereda El Alférez; each of which lasted three consecutive nights. During these visits, Tomahawk® traps were installed in the peridomestic and wild ecotopes of the Vereda El Alférez. Body measurements, sex and age were determined from the collected animals. Blood was extracted by cardiopuncture, after sedation, in order to obtain total deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) and amplify the conserved region of the kinetoplast minicircle DNA (kDNA) of parasitic trypanosomatids. The association between morphological parameters of didelphids and their frequency of infection by parasitic trypanosomatids was determined by binomial regression. Thirty D. marsupialis specimens (60.0% females and 40.0% males/66.7% adults and 33.3% juveniles) were collected. Molecular diagnosis revealed a frequency of trypanosomatid parasite infection of 46.7%. Stage (p=0.024) was a determinant for infection. We discuss the role of D. marsupialis as a potential reservoir of parasitic trypanosomatids in the Vereda El Alférez.

ABSTRACT We studied the prevalence of infection by trypanosomatid parasites in Didelphis marsupialis and its relationship with morphological/age aspects in a rural area of El Carmen de Bolivar, Colombia. Five visits were made to the Vereda El Alférez; each of which lasted three consecutive nights. During these visits, Tomahawk® traps were installed in the peridomestic and wild ecotopes of the Vereda El Alférez. Body measurements, sex and age were determined from the collected animals. Blood was extracted by cardiopuncture, after sedation, in order to obtain total deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) and amplify the conserved region of the kinetoplast minicircle DNA (kDNA) of parasitic trypanosomatids. The association between morphological parameters of didelphids and their frequency of infection by parasitic trypanosomatids was determined by binomial regression. Thirty D. marsupialis specimens (60.0% females and 40.0% males/66.7% adults and 33.3% juveniles) were collected. Molecular diagnosis revealed a frequency of trypanosomatid parasite infection of 46.7%. Stage (p=0.024) was a determinant for infection. We discuss the role of D. marsupialis as a potential reservoir of parasitic trypanosomatids in the Vereda El Alférez.

RESUMEN Se evaluó la prevalencia de infección por parásitos tripanosomátidos en Didelphis marsupialis y su relación con los aspectos morfológicos/etarios en una zona rural de El Carmen de Bolívar, Colombia. En cinco visitas (2018-2019) se instalaron trampas Tomahawk® en los ecótopos peridoméstico y silvestre en la Vereda El Alférez, durante tres noches consecutivas/visita. A los animales recolectados, se les determinaron medidas corporales, sexo y edad; y se les extrajo sangre por cardiopuntura, previa sedación, para extracción del ácido desoxirribonucleico (ADN) total y amplificación de la región conservada del ADN de minicírculos de kinetoplasto (ADNk) de parásitos tripanosomátidos. La asociación entre parámetros morfológicos de los didélfidos y su frecuencia de infección por parásitos tripanosomátidos fue determinada mediante una regresión binomial. Se recolectaron 30 individuos de D. marsupialis (60,0% hembras y 40,0% machos/66,7% adultos y 33,3% juveniles). El diagnóstico molecular reveló una frecuencia de infección por parásitos tripanosomátidos del 46,7%. El estadio (p=0,024) fue determinante para la infección. Se discute el papel de D. marsupialis como potencial reservorio de parásitos tripanosomátidos en la zona evaluada.