In silico and in vitro tests can reveal promising anti-leishmania activity for natural products and their derivatives. The aim of this study was to investigate in silico the pharmacological activities of potential new chalcones and their leishmanicidal potential in vitro. The in silico study was carried out using the PASS, MolPredictX and Molegro Virtual Docker 6.0 programs. Antiparasitic activity was assessed in axenic promastigote and amastigote forms of Leishmania braziliensis. The cytotoxicity tests used the J77G8 cell line. The chalcones exhibited 50% cytotoxic concentration values (CC50) values > 50 μM. Chalcone 4 (named FERAI) presented the best activity with concentration for 50% of promastigotes and intracellular parasites forms (EC50) of 9.75 ± 1.7 and 10.13 ± 1.7 μM for promastigote and amastigote, respectively. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) testing presented increased ROS levels in the parasite at the FERAI concentrations of 10 μM (56.33%), 20 μM (61.76%) and 30 μM (67.13%). Molecular docking revealed interactions (binding energy) between FERAI and the enzymes UDP-glycosyl pyrophosphorylase (-56.8384), dihydroorotate-dehydrogenase (-132.276) and trypanothione-reductase (-151.281). Our results demonstrated the anti-leishmanial activity of chalcones, especially FERAI, with a noted raising of ROS levels in the parasite. Molecular docking revealed dihydroorotate dehydrogenase and trypanothione reductase as potential pharmacological targets for FERAI. antileishmania anti leishmania derivatives PASS 60 6 0 6. programs braziliensis JG J G J77G line CC50 CC (CC50 5 named EC50 EC (EC50 975 9 75 9.7 17 1 7 1. 1013 13 10.1 respectively (ROS 56.33%, 5633 56.33% , 56 33 (56.33%) 2 61.76% 6176 61 76 (61.76% 3 67.13%. 6713 67.13% . 67 (67.13%) binding energy UDPglycosyl UDP glycosyl 56.8384, 568384 56.8384 8384 (-56.8384) dihydroorotatedehydrogenase 132.276 132276 132 276 (-132.276 trypanothionereductase 151.281. 151281 151.281 151 281 (-151.281) antileishmanial leishmanial CC5 (CC5 EC5 (EC5 97 9. 101 10. 563 56.33 (56.33% 61.76 617 (61.76 671 67.13 (67.13% 56838 56.838 838 (-56.8384 132.27 13227 27 (-132.27 15128 151.28 15 28 (-151.281 (CC (EC 56.3 (56.33 61.7 (61.7 67.1 (67.13 5683 56.83 83 (-56.838 132.2 1322 (-132.2 1512 151.2 (-151.28 56. (56.3 61. (61. 67. (67.1 568 56.8 8 (-56.83 132. (-132. 151. (-151.2 (56. (61 (67. (-56.8 (-132 (-151. (56 (6 (67 (-56. (-13 (-151 (5 ( (-56 (-1 (-15 (-5 (-

Resumen (Objetivo) Tryapanosoma cruzi, un agente causal de la enfermedad de Chagas, es un parásito que presenta una alternancia en su ciclo de vida entre un hospedador invertebrado (triatomino) y uno vertebrado (mamífero). Varios estudios han demostrado que en T. cruzi, HSP83 (homólogo de HSP90) es esencial para la división celular y el control de la respuesta al estrés térmico. Esta investigación se concentró en el estudio de la clonación, la caracterización bioinformática y la expresión del gen de la proteína de choque térmico HSP83 de T. cruzi para estudios posteriores sobre señalización. (Metodología) El ARN fue extraído de epimagostigotes T. cruci (clon EPm6/MOHM/VE/2007/ 6c), utilizando un kit comercial. El ADNc que codifica HSP83 se obtuvo utilizando RT-PCR, a partir del ARNm extraído, para lo cual se diseñaron los cebadores con base en la secuencia HSP83 de la cepa T. cruzi CL Brener. La clonación se realizó usando pGEM®T-Easy y se subclonó en el vector de expresión pQE30. Se efectuó la caracterización bioinformática y de secuencias. El gen se expresó y la proteína recombinante se purificó por cromatografía de afinidad, igual que se identificó por inmunotransferencia. (Resultados) El análisis de secuencia mostró similitud con el gen HSP83 de Trypanosoma cruzi y se observaron dominios HSP, así como epítopos B en la secuencia. Después de 3 horas de inducción con IPTG, se obtuvo una proteína recombinante con un peso aproximado de 83 kDa. La reacción de inmunotransferencia con suero hiperinmune anti-epimastigote de T. cruzi permitió la detección de una sola banda con un peso molecular de aproximadamente 83 kDa. (Conclusiones) Todos los resultados indican que se logró la clonación y caracterización de HSP83 de Trypanosoma cruzi.

Resumo (Objetivo) O Tryapanosoma cruzi, agente causador da doença de Chagas, é um parasita que apresenta uma alternância em seu ciclo de vida entre um hospedeiro invertebrado triatomíneo) e um vertebrado(mamífero). Vários estudos demonstraram que, no T. cruzi, a HSP83 (homóloga da HSP90) é essencial para a divisão celular e o controle da resposta ao estresse térmico. Esta pesquisa concentrou-se no estudo da clonagem, caracterização bioinformática e expressão do gene da proteína de choque térmico HSP83 do T. cruzi para estudos adicionais de sinalização. (Metodologia) O RNA foi extraído de epimastigotas de T. cruzi (clone EPm6/MOHM/VE/2007/ 6c) usando um kit comercial. O cDNA que codifica a HSP83 foi obtido por meio de RT-PCR a partir do mRNA extraído, para o qual os primers foram projetados com base na sequência da HSP83 da cepa T. cruzi CL Brener. A clonagem foi realizada com o pGEM®T-Easy e subclonada no vetor de expressão pQE30. Foi realizada a caracterização bioinformática e de sequência. O gene foi expresso e a proteína recombinante foi purificada por cromatografia de afinidade e identificada por imunotransferência. (Resultados) A análise da sequência mostrou similaridade com o gene HSP83 do Trypanosoma cruzi e os domínios HSP, bem como os epítopos B, foram observados na sequência. Após 3 horas de indução com IPTG, foi obtida uma proteína recombinante com peso aproximado de 83 kDa. A imunotransferência com soro hiperimune antiepimastigota de T. cruzi permitiu a detecção de uma única banda com peso molecular de aproximadamente 83 kDa. (Conclusões) Todos os resultados indicam que a clonagem e a caracterização da HSP83 do Trypanosoma cruzi foram alcançadas.

Abstract (Objective) Trypanosoma cruzi, a causal agent of Chagas’ disease, is a parasite whose life cycle alternates between an invertebrate (triatomine) and a vertebrate (mammal) host. Various studies have shown that in T. cruzi, HSP83 (a homolog of HSP90) is essential for cell division and control of the response to thermal stress. This investigation focused on studying the cloning, bioinformatic characterization, and expression of the heat shock protein HSP83 T. cruzi gene for further cell signaling studies. (Methodology) RNA was extracted from T. cruzi epimastigotes (EPm6 clone, MHOM/VE/2007/ 6c) using a commercial kit. The cDNA encoding HSP83 was determined using RT-PCR on extracted mRNA, for which the primers were designed based on the HSP83 sequence of T. cruzi strain CL Brener. Cloning was performed using pGEM®T-Easy and subcloned into the expression vector pQE30. Sequence and bioinformatic characterization were performed. The gene was expressed, and the recombinant protein was purified using affinity chromatography and identified through immunoblotting. (Results) Sequence analysis showed similarity to the gene encoding HSP83 from Trypanosoma cruzi, and HSP domains and B epitopes in the sequence were also observed. After 3 hours of induction with IPTG, a recombinant protein with an approximate weight of 83 kDa was obtained. The immunoblotting reaction with hyperimmune anti-T. cruzi epimastigote serum helped detect a single band with a molecular weight of nearly 83 kDa. (Conclusions) All results indicate that the cloning and characterization of HSP83 from Trypanosoma cruzi was achieved.

Resumen (Objetivo) Plasmodium vivax infecta ampliamente a muchas personas en algunas regiones. La singularidad de formar una etapa latente hace que la malaria vivax pueda ser inducida por una recaída por una infección adicional. En el presente estudio, utilizamos un enfoque de simulación dinámica y acoplamiento molecular ara predecir la posibilidad de que compuestos bioactivos de la familia de plantas Zingiberaceae sean candidatos a fármaco contra la malaria dirigiéndose a la proteína de unión a Duffy de Plasmodium vivax (PvDBP). Se requiere la interacción molecular PvDBP-DARC para mediar el proceso de invasión de merozoitos en los glóbulos rojos. La inhibición de este proceso posiblemente pueda controlar el crecimiento y desarrollo del parásito. (Metodología) El análisis de acoplamiento molecular dio como resultado los dos compuestos principales con el valor de energía de unión más bajo, incluida la 5,7-dihidroxiflavanona (-9,3 kcal/mol) y la pinostrobina (-9,2 kcal/mol). (Resultados) Estos compuestos previstos tienen una interacción más fuerte que la cloroquina como control. Además, los compue potenciales también interactúan con los residuos del sitio de unión de DARC y lo mantienen durante el proceso de simulación de dinámica molecular. De lo contrario, la cloroquina como control no puede retener el 75% de los residuos de unión hacia PvDBP. El estudio de dinámica molecular reveló que los tres complejos tienen una estabilidad relativamente similar. (Conclusiones) Predijimos que los dos compuestos bioactivos tienen potencial como inhibidores de la invasión de merozoitos.

Resumo (Objetivo) O Plasmodium vivax infecta amplamente muitas pessoas em algumas regiões. A singularidade de formar um estágio latente significa que a malária vivax pode ser induzida por recaída devido à infecção adicional. No presente estudo, utilizamos uma abordagem de simulação dinâmica e de acoplamento molecular para prever a possibilidade de compostos bioativos da família de plantas Zingiberaceae como candidatos a medicamentos antimaláricos, visand o aproteína de ligação Duffy do Plasmodium vivax (PvDBP). A interação molecular PvDBP-DARC é necessária para mediar o processo de invasão de merozoítos nos glóbulos vermelhos. A inibição deste processo pode possivelmente controlar o crescimento e desenvolvimento do parasita. (Metodologia) A análise de acoplamento molecular resultou nos dois principais compostos com o menor valor de energia de ligação, incluindo ,7-dihidroxiflavanona (-9,3 kcal/mol) e pinostrobina (-9,2 kcal/mol). (Resultados) Esses compostos previstos têm uma interação mais forte do que a cloroquina como controle. Além disso, os compostos potenciais também interagem e mantêm resíduos do sítio de ligação do DARC durante o processo de simulação de dinâmica molecular. Caso contrário, a cloroquina como controle não pode reter 75% dos resíduos de ligação ao três complexos apresentam estabilidade relativa compostos bioativos têm potencial como inibidor Palavras chave: Medicamentos antimalária; ePvmeesdmsilDBP. ntesa invício;O estudo de dinâmica molecular revelou que os emelhante. (Conclusões) Previmos que os dois asão de merozoítos. Plasmodium vivax; PvDBP; Zingiberáceas.

Abstract (Objective) Plasmodium vivax predominantly infects many people in numerous tropical areas, including Southeast Asia, the Western Pacific, the Americas, and the Eastern Mediterranean. The uniqueness of forming dormant stages can lead to relapse in vivax malaria upon further infection. This study used molecular docking and dynamic simulation to predict potential bioactive compounds from the Zingiberaceae plant family as inhibitors by targeting Plasmodium vivax Duffy Binding Protein (PvDBP). PvDBP-DARC molecular interaction is required to mediate the merozoite invasion process into red blood cells. Inhibiting this process can possibly control parasite growth and development. (Methodology) Molecular docking screening was conducted by using 138 natural compounds from the Zingiberaceae plant family targeting Plasmodium vivax Duffy binding protein (PvDBP). The top two compounds with the lowest binding energy were selected to be analyzed by pharmacokinetics prediction and molecular dynamic (MD) simulation. (Results) Molecular docking screening resulted in the top two compounds with the lowest binding energy value, including 5,7-dihydroxyflavanone (-9.3 kcal/mol) and pinostrobin (-9.2 kcal/mol). These compounds are predicted to have stronger interaction than chloroquine as a control. Furthermore, the potential compounds also interact with DARC binding site residues and maintain them during the molecular dynamic simulation process. Otherwise, chloroquine as a control cannot retain 75% binding residues towards PvDBP. A molecular dynamic study revealed that all three complexes have relatively similar stability. (Conclusions) We predicted that the two bioactive compounds (5,7-dihydroxyflavanone and pinostrobin) have the potential as merozoite invasion inhibitors.

Abstract Tungiasis is a skin parasitosis caused by a flea. It is very prevalent in underdeveloped countries and rare in developed countries, particularly in Europe. The disease is acquired through direct contact with infected soil, mainly on the feet after the host has been barefoot. The disease is typically self-limited and its diagnosis is essentially clinical due to its typical clinical presentation. This report presents a case of imported tungiasis in Portugal, in a 21-year-old male patient after returning from a vacation in a country with a high prevalence of this parasite. The patient had three typical tungiasis lesions, with no associated complications. The parasites were surgically excised without complications. The aim of this report is to contribute to knowledge of this pathology, which is largely unknown to the majority of the medical community. Its identification is essential due to the increase in globalization, tourism, and the importation of this pathology.

Resumo A tungíase é uma parasitose cutânea causada por uma pulga, sendo prevalente em países subdesenvolvidos, sendo rara a sua apresentação em países desenvolvidos, nomeadamente na Europa. A doença é adquirida através contacto direto com o solo infetado, sendo adquirida principalmente nos pés após o hospedeiro ter andado descalço. A doença é tipicamente autolimitada e o seu diagnóstico é essencialmente clínico devido à sua apresentação clínica típica. Neste relato apresenta-se um caso de importação de tungíase em Portugal num utente masculino de 21 anos após regressar de férias num país com alta prevalência deste parasita. O utente apresentava tês lesões típicas de tungíase, sem complicações associadas. Foi realizada a excisão cirúrgica dos parasitas sem intercorências. Com este relato pretende-se contribuir para o conhecimento desta patologia muito desconhecida pela maioria da comunidade médica, sendo essencial a sua identificação devido ao aumento da globalização, do turismo e da importação desta patologia.

Abstract Cryptosporidiosis is a disease characterized by episodes of diarrhea in cattle worldwide, caused by a protozoan parasite of the genus Cryptosporidium spp. of the phylum Apicomplexa and Family Cryptosporiidae. It is responsible for important economic losses, and, in addition to this, it generates an impact on human health, as it can parasitize humans. The objective of the study was to determine the prevalence of and risk factors associated with Cryptosporidium spp. in cattle in Chiquinquirá (Colombia). A descriptive cross-sectional study with simple random sampling was carried out, with a sample size of 1,044 head of cattle, including males and females of different breeds and age groups, using the WinEpi statistical software. Fecal samples were taken directly from the rectum and processed with the modified Ziehl-Neelsen (ZN) technique for the identification of parasite oocysts using a 100X objective. The data were processed with the Epi Info® statistical software. An overall prevalence of 7.3 % (73/1000) was found; females, 2 to 4-yr-old bovines, and crossbred cattle were the most prevalent. No significant statistical association was found between breed, age, and sex of the individuals evaluated, and protozoan positivity (P≥0.05). The purchase of animals and larger productions were considered risk factors for parasitosis. Protozoan prevention and control plans should be designed and implemented based on sanitary practices to prevent the dissemination of oocysts found in fecal matter.

Resumen La criptosporidiosis en una enfermedad que se caracteriza por generar episodios de diarrea en bovinos alrededor del mundo causada por un parásito protozoario del género Cryptosporidium spp. del phylum Apicomplexa y Familia Cryptosporiidae. Es responsable de importantes pérdidas económicas, y sumado a esto, genera un impacto en la salud humana, al poseer la capacidad de parasitar a humanos. El objetivo fue determinar la prevalencia y factores de riesgo asociados a Cryptosporidium spp. en bovinos de Chiquinquirá (Colombia). Se desarrolló un estudio descriptivo de corte transversal con muestreo aleatorio simple, en donde se tuvo en cuenta un tamaño muestral de 1,044 bovinos, entre machos y hembras, de diferentes razas, y grupos etarios con el programa estadístico WinEpi. Las muestras de materia fecal se tomaron directamente del recto y procesadas mediante la técnica de Ziehl-Neelsen modificada (ZN) para la identificación de ooquistes del parásito en el objetivo de 100X. Los datos se procesaron con el programa estadístico Epi Info®. Se encontró una prevalencia general del 7.3 % (73/1000), las hembras, los bovinos de 2 a 4 años y los cruces raciales fueron los más prevalentes. No se encontró asociación estadística significativa entre la raza, edad y sexo de los individuos evaluados, y la positividad al protozoario (P≥0,05). La compra de animales y las producciones de mayor tamaño se consideraron como factores de riesgo para la parasitosis. Se deben diseñar e implementar planes de prevención y control del protozoario basados en prácticas sanitarias que impidan la diseminación de los ooquistes que se encuentran en materia fecal.

RESUMEN En proyectos hidroeléctricos se han realizado pocas investigaciones para determinar la composición taxonómica de dípteros de la familia Psychodidae, subfamilia Phlebotominae. En este trabajo se realizó un inventario taxonómico de flebótomos en el área de influencia de la central hidroeléctrica de Ituango, departamento de Antioquia con el fin de actualizar su distribución y resaltar su importancia médica como vectores del protozoo del género Leishmania. Para esto, se realizaron monitoreos entomológicos con trampas CDC y trampas Shannon, en diez municipios de la subregión occidente (Santa Fe de Antioquia, Peque, Olaya, Liborina y Sabanalarga) y de la subregión norte (municipios de Ituango, Briceño, Valdivia, Toledo y San Andrés de Cuerquia). Para la identificación taxonómica se utilizaron las claves de Young y Duncan y Galati. En total se recolectaron 7993 flebótomos, distribuidos en 39 especies según Galati, destacándose seis especies consideradas vectores de especies de Leishmania, que causan la leishmaniasis cutánea. Estas especies fueron Lutzomyia (Trl.) gomezi, Lu. (Hel.) hartmanni, Psychodopygus panamensis, Pintomyia (Pif.) columbiana, Nyssomyia trapidoi y Ny. yuilli yuilli. Los datos indican que la zona de muestreo es endémica para la leishmaniasis debido a la presencia de vectores transmisores de este parásito. El inventario sobre la distribución de flebótomos servirá de base para estudios posteriores que permitan la implementación de estrategias de vigilancia y control.

ABSTRACT In hydroelectric projects, few investigations have been carried out to determine the taxonomic composition of diptera of the family Psychodidae, subfamily Phlebotominae. In this work, a taxonomic inventory of phlebotomine sandflies was conducted in the area of influence of the Ituango hydroelectric power plant, in the department of Antioquia, Colombia. We highlight their medical importance as vectors of the protozoan of the genus Leishmania and update their distribution. Entomological monitoring was carried out in ten municipalities from the western subregion (Santa Fe de Antioquia, Peque, Olaya, Liborina and Sabanalarga) and the northern subregion (the municipalities of Ituango, Briceño, Valdivia, Toledo and San Andrés de Cuerquia). CDC traps and Shannon traps were used for monitoring. For taxonomic identification, the keys of Young and Duncan and Galati were used. A total of 7993 phlebotomine sandflies were collected, distributed in 39 species according to Galati, highlighting six species considered vectors of Leishmania spp. that causes cutaneous leishmaniasis, which are: Lutzomyia (Trl.) gomezi, Lu. (Hel.) hartmanni, Psychodopygus panamensis, Pintomyia (Pif.) columbiana, Nyssomyia trapidoi and Ny. yuilli yuilli. We conclude that the sampling area is endemic for leishmaniasis due to the presence of vectors transmitting this parasite. The inventory on the distribution of phlebotomine sandflies will serve as a basis for further studies that allow the implementation of surveillance and control strategies.

ABSTRACT The ecology, distribution, and taxonomy of bopyrid isopod species are often omitted from studies not systematically addressed to crustaceans. From a wider study of zooplankton in coastal and reef waters of the Mexican Caribbean Sea, two bopyrid species were collected, Probopyrinella latreuticola, attached to the branchial chamber of Latreutes fucorum andProbopyrus pandalicola parasitizing the branchial chamber of Palaemon northropi. For both parasite-host associations, these records represent a new locality and the southernmost record in the Mexican Caribbean. A map and a list of the bopyrid species belonging to Bopyridae recorded in the Mexican Caribbean are provided.

ABSTRACT The study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of four anthelmintics in the control of Fasciola hepatica at the Estación Experimental del Instituto Nacional de Innovación Agraria (INIA), Baños del Inca, Cajamarca, Perú. Forty guinea pigs from 5 to 12 months of age of the Inka line, naturally infected with F. hepatica (≥1 HPG), not dewormed in the last 4 months, under the same management and feeding system were used. The animals were distributed into four groups (n=10): triclabendazole (25 mg/kg) and closantel (20 mg/kg) orally, clorsulon + ivermectin (15 mg/kg based on clorsulon) and nitroxinil (50 mg/ kg) subcutaneously. The parasite load was determined on days 0 and 30 post-dosing. The Egg Count Reduction Test determined an efficacy of 0% for triclabendazole and 100% for closantel, clorsulon + ivermectin, and nitroxinil. It is concluded that F. hepatica is resistant to triclabendazole and sensitive to closantel, clorsulón + ivermectin and nitroxinil in guinea pigs from INIA-Cajamarca.

RESUMEN El estudio tuvo por objetivo evaluar la eficacia de cuatro antihelmínticos en el control de Fasciola hepatica en la Estación Experimental del Instituto Nacional de Innovación Agraria (INIA), Baños del Inca, Cajamarca, Perú. Se utilizaron 40 cuyes de 5 a 12 meses de edad, de la línea Inka infectados naturalmente con F. hepatica (≥1 HPG) no desparasitados en los últimos 4 meses, bajo el mismo sistema de manejo y alimentación. Los cuyes fueron distribuidos en cuatro grupos (n=10): triclabendazol (25 mg/kg), closantel (20 mg/kg) vía oral, clorsulón + ivermectina (15 mg/kg en base a clorsulón) y nitroxinil (50 mg/kg), vía subcutánea. Se determinó la carga parasitaria el día 0 y 30 posdosificación. El Test de Reducción del Conteo de Huevos determinó una eficacia de 0% para triclabendazol y 100% para closantel, clorsulón + ivermectina, y nitroxinil. Se concluye F. hepatica es resistente al triclabendazol y sensible a closantel, clorsulón + ivermectina y nitroxinil en cuyes del INIA-Cajamarca.

Abstract Introduction. In 2021, the Secretaría de Salud de México and the Pan American Health Organization launched an initiative to interrupt intra-domiciliary vector transmission of Trypanosoma cruzi based on the prevalence of Chagas disease in children. The Mexican State of Veracruz was leading this initiative. Objective. To estimate the seroprevalence of T. cruzi infection among children under 15 years of age from rural areas of Veracruz, México. Materials and methods. We identified eight localities of high priority from the Municipality of Tempoal, Veracruz, for baseline serology. Blood samples were collected on filter paper from 817 individuals between June and August 2017, for screening with a third-generation enzyme immunoassay. Reactive cases were confirmed by indirect hemagglutination, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and indirect immunofluorescence tests on peripheral blood serum samples. We calculated seroprevalence and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results. We confirmed Chagas disease cases in children under 15 years of age with a seroprevalence of 1,9% (95 % CI = 1,12-3,16) in the localities of Citlaltepetl, Cornizuelo, Cruz de Palma and Rancho Nuevo. Conclusions. These results indicate recent transmission of T. cruzi in these communities and allow to establish an epidemiological baseline for the design and implementation of a model focused on geographical areas with active transmission to advance toward the elimination of intra-domiciliary vector transmission of this parasite in Mexico.

Resumen Introducción. En el 2021, la Secretaría de Salud de México y la Organización Panamericana de la Salud lanzaron una iniciativa para interrumpir la transmisión vectorial intradomiciliaria de Trypanosoma cruzi, fundamentada en la prevalencia de la enfermedad de Chagas en la población infantil. El estado mexicano de Veracruz fue el pionero de esta iniciativa. Objetivo. Estimar la seroprevalencia de infección por T. cruzi en menores de 15 años de localidades rurales de Veracruz, México. Materiales y métodos. Se identificaron ocho localidades prioritarias para la serología basal del municipio de Tempoal, Veracruz. Entre junio y agosto de 2017, se recolectaron muestras de sangre en papel filtro de 817 individuos para su tamizaje mediante un inmunoensayo enzimático de tercera generación. Los casos reactivos del tamizaje se confirmaron mediante pruebas de hemaglutinación indirecta, ensayo de inmunoabsorción ligado a enzimas e inmunofluorescencia indirecta en muestras de suero. Se calculó la seroprevalencia y su intervalo de confianza (IC) del 95 %. Resultados. En las localidades de Citlaltépetl, Cornizuelo, Cruz de Palma y Rancho Nuevo se confirmaron casos de la enfermedad de Chagas en menores de 15 años con una seroprevalencia de 1,9 % (IC 95 % = 1,12-3,16). Conclusiones. Los resultados indican que estas comunidades presentan transmisión reciente de T. cruzi y permiten establecer una línea epidemiológica de base para el diseño e implementación de un modelo dirigido a aquellas áreas geográficas con transmisión activa. Se espera que dicho modelo contribuya a la eliminación de la transmisión vectorial intradomiciliaria del tripanosomátido en México.

ABSTRACT The aim of this study was to determine the association between soil-transmitted helminth infections and clinical signs in school-age children. The study was basic level, analytical in design, observational and cross-sectional. It included a sample size of 471 school-age children in 2017, through simple random sampling, who were asked for a faecal sample and a history was taken to identify clinical signs. Faecal eggs were identified using rapid sedimentation (RST) and Kato-Katz techniques. The t test was applied to determine the difference between means and the Pearson Chi-square test and Odds ratio to establish associations at a 95% reliability level and α=0.05 for the confidence intervals. The overall prevalence of soil-transmitted helminth infections was 52.5% (259/493; 95%CI=48.0-57.1). The prevalence of Ascaris lumbricoides was 51.1%, Trichuris trichiura 1.8% and Ancylostoma sp 0.6%. The prevalence of ascariasis in women was higher than that inmen (p<0.05). Hookworm infection was associated with age (p<0.01), weight (p<0.01) and height (p<0.01) of the schoolchildren. A. lumbricoides reached a severe parasite load. The schoolchildren mainly presented fever, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, pain, paleness and flatulence. Ascariasis was associated with constipation (OR=1.7; p<0.01) and epigastric pain (OR=1.6; p<0.01).

RESUMEN El objetivo del estudio fue determinar la asociación entre las geohelmintiasis y los signos clínicos en niños de edad escolar. El estudio fue de nivel básico, de diseño analítico, de tipo observacional y de corte transversal. Se trabajó en 2017 con un tamaño de muestra de 471 niños en edad escolar, a través de un muestreo simple al azar, a quienes se les pidió una muestra fecal y se les realizó una anamnesis para identificar signos clínicos. Los huevos de heces fueron identificados mediante las técnicas de sedimentación rápida (TSR) y de Kato-Katz. Se aplicó la prueba de t para determinar diferencia de medias y la prueba de Chi-cuadrado de Pearson y Odds ratio para establecer asociaciones a un nivel de confiabilidad de 95% y un α=0.05 para los intervalos de confianza. La prevalencia general de geohelmintiasis fue de 52.5% (259/493; IC95%=48.0-57.1). La prevalencia de Ascaris lumbricoides fue de 51.1%, de Trichuris trichiura 1.8% y de Ancylostoma sp 0.6%. La prevalencia de ascariosis en mujeres fue mayor a la de los varones (p<0.05). La anquilostomiasis estuvo asociada a la edad (p<0.01), peso (p<0.01) y talla (p<0.01) de los escolares. A. lumbricoides alcanzó carga parasitaria severa. Los escolares presentaron principalmente fiebre, náuseas, vómitos, diarrea, dolor, palidez y flatulencia. La ascariosis estuvo asociada a estreñimientos (OR=1.7; p<0.01) y epigastralgias (OR=1.6; p<0.01).

Abstract Introduction: The endoparasite Dendrogaster argentinensis infects the intertidal brooder sea star Anasterias antarctica. This sea-star species is in the highest trophic level in the Beagle Channel. Objective: To study the effects of parasitism by D. argentinensis on the fitness and reproduction of A. antarctica. Methods: Adults from the brooder sea-star were collected from the rocky intertidal of Ensenada Zaratiegui bay (54°51’ S & 68°29’ W), Argentina. Eight seasonal samplings were performed (four seasons in two years) in the upper and low intertidal. During dissection, parasites were removed, and all organs were extracted and weighed separately. Results: Dendrogaster argentinensis prevalence was the highest for the region (20.4 %). Parasitized individuals were more frequent in the low intertidal in all seasons, with a higher difference in summer, where it is likely that the higher temperatures and strong winds could make the upper intertidal more challenging for a parasitized individual. Five parasitized individuals were castrated. Generally, the gonadal (GI) and somatic (pyloric caeca, PCI; stomach, SI; body wall, WI) indexes were lower in parasitized than non-parasitized individuals. Conclusions: Parasitism by D. argentinensis negatively affects A. antarctica condition. It affects reproduction because it reduces the GI, and can also produce castration. The parasite competes for the sea-stars’ energetic resources, also decreasing the individual’s capacity for feeding (reduced stomach) and growth (reduced body wall).

Resumen Introducción: El endoparásito Dendrogaster argentinensis infecta a la estrella de mar Anasterias antarctica, especie que se encuentra en el nivel trófico más alto del Canal Beagle. Objetivo: Estudiar los efectos del parasitismo de D. argentinensis en la condición fisiológica y reproducción de A. antarctica. Métodos: Adultos de la estrella de mar incubadora fueron recogidos del intermareal rocoso de la bahía Ensenada Zaratiegui (54°51’ S & 68°29’ W). Se realizaron ocho muestreos estacionales (cuatro temporadas en dos años) en el intermareal superior y bajo. Durante la disección, se removieron los parásitos, y todos los órganos, los cuales fueron pesados por separado. Resultados: La prevalencia de D. argentinensis fue la más alta de la región (20.4 %). Los individuos parasitados fueron más frecuentes en el intermareal bajo en todas las estaciones, siendo la mayor diferencia en verano, donde es probable que las temperaturas más altas y los fuertes vientos puedan hacer que el intermareal superior sea más desafiante para un individuo parasitado. Se observaron cinco individuos parasitados que estaban castrados. Generalmente, los índices gonadales (GI) y somáticos (ciego pilórico, estómago, y pared del cuerpo) fueron menores en los individuos parasitados que no parasitados. Conclusiones: El parasitismo de D. argentinensis afecta negativamente la condición fisiológica de A. antarctica. Afecta a la reproducción en términos de bajo GI y puede causar castración. El parásito compite por los recursos energéticos de las estrellas de mar, disminuyendo también la capacidad del individuo para alimentarse (reducción del estómago) y crecer (reducción de la pared del cuerpo).

ABSTRACT The present study determined the prevalence of Ehrlichia sp morulae and Hepatozoon sp gamonts in dogs treated at a veterinary medical centre in the city of Trujillo. Blood samples were taken from dogs infested with ticks or exposed in the three months prior to the study. Blood samples (3 mL) were collected from the cephalic vein of 95 dogs in EDTA tubes. The samples were centrifuged. A drop of the phlogistic layer of each sample was placed on a slide, which was extended with a coverslip and subjected to Wright staining. The smears were observed under an optical microscope at 40X and 100X. A prevalence of Ehrlichia sp of 31.6 ± 9.4% was found. No presence of Hepatozoon sp gamonts was observed.

RESUMEN El presente estudio determinó la prevalencia de mórulas de Ehrlichia sp y gamontes de Hepatozoon sp en perros atendidos en un centro médico veterinario de la ciudad de Trujillo. Se tomaron muestras sanguíneas de perros infestados con garrapatas o con exposición en los tres meses previos al estudio. Se colectó 3 mL de sangre de la vena cefálica de 95 perros en tubos EDTA. Las muestras fueron centrifugadas. Se colocó una gota de la capa flogística de cada muestra sobre una lámina portaobjetos la que se extendió con una laminilla cubreobjetos y fue sometida a la tinción Wright. Los frotis se observaron en microscopio óptico a 40X y 100X. Se halló una prevalencia a Ehrlichia sp de 31.6 ± 9.4%. No se observó presencia de gamontes de Hepatozoon sp.

Abstract. This publication aims to present new records of a parasite-host association between ticks (Acari: Ixodidae) and the Axis axis deer in Argentina. Sampling was conducted in Mercedes, Corrientes, Argentina, and identified ticks collected from two male specimens of A. axis were identified as two parthenogens, twelve nymphs, one neogina, and four males of Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus. This work unveils the first recorded instance of R. microplus adults and nymphs infesting the A. axis in Argentina.

Resumen 16. El objetivo de esta publicación es dar a conocer nuevos registros de una asociación parásito- hospedador entre garrapatas (Acari: Ixodidae) y el ciervo Axis axis, en Argentina. Los muestreos fueron realizados en Mercedes, Corrientes, Argentina. Las garrapatas, colectadas sobre dos ejemplares machos de A. axis, fueron determinadas como dos partenoginas, doce metaninfas, una neogina y cuatro machos de Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus. El hallazgo presentado en este trabajo representa el primer registro de adultos y ninfas de R. microplus parasitando A. axis para Argentina.

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: A 4-month-old male Himalayan cat presented with clinical signs of acute lethargy and motor incoordination after being treated with amitraz for parasite control. On clinical examination, the patient was lethargic and ataxic with severe pulicosis, hypothermia, pale mucous membranes, bradycardia, weak femoral pulses, hyperglycemia, and bilateral mydriasis. Blood tests revealed non-regenerative hypochromic microcytic anemia. Serum alanine levels were elevated tenfold. The patient received supportive treatment with atipamezole (an α2-adrenergic antagonist) at a dose of 0.1 mg/kg intramuscularly. After 24 h of hospitalization and constant monitoring, the patient recovered and was discharged. The published literature showed that the active ingredient amitraz is effective in the treatment of some parasitic diseases in cats, such as scabies and demodicosis; therefore, it is still used for this purpose. Given the small therapeutic margin of this insecticide, veterinarians should caution owners about its potential toxicity. This report emphasized the significance of amitraz intoxication in feline species and the success of the treatment, which should be initiated in the first hour after intoxication. ABSTRACT 4monthold monthold 4 month old control examination pulicosis hypothermia membranes bradycardia pulses hyperglycemia mydriasis nonregenerative non regenerative anemia tenfold an α2adrenergic αadrenergic α2 adrenergic α antagonist 01 0 1 0. mgkg mg kg intramuscularly 2 monitoring discharged cats demodicosis therefore purpose insecticide toxicity

RESUMO: Um gato da raça Himalaia, macho, com quatro meses de idade, apresentou sinais clínicos de letargia aguda e incoordenação motora após ser medicado com amitraz para controle de parasitas. No exame clínico, o paciente se apresentava letárgico e atáxico, com pulicose grave, hipotermia, mucosaspálidas, bradicardia, pulso femoral fraco, hiperglicemia e midríase bilateral. O exame de sangue revelou anemia microcítica hipocrômica não regenerativa. Os níveis séricos de ALT estavam 10x elevados. O paciente recebeu tratamento de suporte e administração de atipamezol (antagonista α2-adrenérgico) na dose de 0,1 mg/kg por via intramuscular. Após 24 horas de internação e acompanhamento constante, o paciente se recuperou e recebeu alta. Dados publicados na literatura demonstram que o princípio ativo amitraz é eficaz no tratamento de algumas doenças parasitárias em gatos como sarna e demodicose e, portanto, ainda é utilizado para esta finalidade. Dada a pequena margem terapêutica deste inseticida, os veterinários devem informar os proprietários sobre o seu potencial de toxicidade. O objetivo deste relato é enfatizar a importância da intoxicação por amitraz na espécie felina e o sucesso do tratamento, que deve ocorrer nas primeiras horas após a intoxicação. RESUMO Himalaia macho idade parasitas clínico atáxico grave hipotermia mucosaspálidas bradicardia fraco bilateral regenerativa x elevados antagonista α2adrenérgico αadrenérgico α2 adrenérgico α α2-adrenérgico 01 0 1 0, mgkg mg kg intramuscular 2 constante alta portanto finalidade inseticida toxicidade