RESUMEN Introducción: Las enfermedades infecciosas intestinales (diarrea) son una causa importante de morbilidad y mortalidad a nivel mundial. En 2015, constituyeron la novena causa principal de muerte para todas las edades. Objetivo: describir las características epidemiológicas de la mortalidad por enfermedades infecciosas intestinales (diarreas) en Paraguay durante los años 2015 al 2019. Metodología: Estudio descriptivo, ecológico, transversal, retrospectivo, muestreo no probabilístico de casos consecutivos. Se consideraron los óbitos del CIE - 10, que incluyen al cólera (A01), fiebres tifoidea y paratifoidea (A01), shigelosis (A03), otras infecciones intestinales bacterianas (A04), otras intoxicaciones alimentarias bacterianas (A05), amebiasis (A06), otras enfermedades intestinales debidas a protozoarios (A07), infecciones intestinales debidas a virus (A08) y diarrea y gastroenteritis de presunto origen infeccioso (A09). Se utilizaron datos de acceso abierto de la página WEB de la Dirección General de Información Estratégica en Salud del MSP y BS de todos los Departamentos del país. Se calcularon tasas crudas y ajustadas (por 100.000 habitantes). Se utilizaron Excel y EPI INFO 7.0. Resultados: Se registraron 495 muertes, la mayor prevalencia fue en 2019 (tasa ajustada de 1,83) y menor en 2017 (1,36). Los meses con mayor mortalidad fueron enero y julio (9,9%). El 51,72% fueron mujeres (256), 30,91% mayores de 80 años y 28,28% (140) menores de 5 años, edad promedio 50,8, solteros 56,77% (281) y sin ningún tipo de educación 41,82% (207). El 80,61% (399) residía en área urbana. Las mayores tasas se registraron en Boquerón (33,3) y Amambay (15,2). El 95,56% (473) fueron diarreas y gastroenteritis de origen infeccioso. Discusión: Se registra alto porcentaje de mortalidad de diarreas de origen infeccioso. Los extremos de la vida constituyen la población más vulnerable.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Infectious intestinal diseases (diarrhea) are a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. In 2015, it constituted the ninth leading cause of death for all ages. Objective: To describe the epidemiological characteristics of mortality due to infectious intestinal diseases (diarrhea) in Paraguay from 2015 to 2019. Methods: Descriptive, ecological, cross-sectional, retrospective, and non-probabilistic sampling of consecutive cases was performed. ICD-10 deaths included cholera (A01), typhoid and paratyphoid fever (A01), shigellosis (A03), other bacterial intestinal infections (A04), other bacterial food poisoning (A05), amebiasis (A06), other intestinal diseases due to protozoa (A07), intestinal infections due to viruses (A08), and diarrhea and gastroenteritis of presumed infectious origin (A09). Open access data were obtained from the WEB page of the General Directorate of Strategic Information in Health of the MSP and BS of all the Departments of the country. Crude and adjusted rates (per 100,000 inhabitants) were calculated. Excel and EPI INFO 7.0 were used. Results: 495 deaths were registered; the highest prevalence was in 2019 (adjusted rate of 1.83) and the lowest in 2017 (1.36). The months with the highest mortality rates were January and July (9.9%). 51.72% were women (256), 30.91% were over 80 years old and 28.28% (140) were under 5 years old, average age 50.8, single 56.77% (281) and without any type of education 41.82% (207). A total of 80.61% (399) of the respondents resided in urban areas. The highest rates were registered in Boquerón (33.3) and Amambay (15.2). Diarrhea and gastroenteritis of infectious origin accounted for 95.56% of the cases (473). Discussion: There was a high percentage of mortality from infectious diarrhea. Extremes of life were the most vulnerable populations.

ABSTRACT: Infectious enteritis is highly prevalent among dogs worldwide and, in some cases, it can be fatal. This study describes the clinical and laboratorial findings of single and mixed infections associated with severe enteritis in 76 dogs from Southern Brazil. Intestinal segments and/or fecal samples were subjected to histopathology and molecular detection of DNA viruses, bacteria and protozoa. Severe intestinal lesions were observed in most cases. Single infections were detected in 52.6% of cases, double (36.8%) and triple (10.5%) infections were also identified. Carnivore protoparvovirus 2 (CPV-2) was the most frequent agent in single infections (36.8%). Coinfection by CPV-2 and Giardia spp. was the most common in dual infections (19.7%), followed by CPV-2 and Cryptosporidium spp. (10.5%). The most frequent triple infection was CPV-2, Giardia sp. and Cryptosporidium spp. (6.6%). Our results shown that single and mixed infections are associated with severe enteritis in dogs in southern Brazil, mainly involving CPV-2 and Giardia sp.

RESUMO: Enterites infecciosas são altamente prevalentes entre cães em todo o mundo e, em alguns casos, podem ser fatais. Este estudo descreve os achados clínicos e laboratoriais de infecções simples e mistas associadas a enterites graves em 76 cães do sul do Brasil. Segmentos intestinais e/ou fezes foram submetidos à análise patológica e detecção molecular de vírus de genoma DNA, bactérias e protozoários. Lesões intestinais severas foram observadas na maioria dos casos. Infecções únicas foram detectadas em 52,6% dos casos, e infecções duplas (36,8%) e triplas (10,5%) também foram identificadas. O Protoparvovírus carnívoro 2 (CPV-2) foi o agente mais frequente nas infecções simples (36,8% do total). Coinfecção por CPV-2 e Giardia sp. foi a mais comum em infecções duplas (19,7%), seguido por CPV-2 e Cryptosporidium spp. (10,5%). A tripla infecção mais frequente foi CPV-2, Giardia spp. e Cryptosporidium spp. (6,6%). Nossos resultados demostraram que infecções simples e mistas estão associadas a enterites graves em cães no sul do Brasil, envolvendo principalmente CPV-2 e Giardia sp.

ABSTRACT Cryptosporidium spp. are important enteropathogen protozoan parasites that infect humans and other animals throughout the world. Cryptosporidiosis in cattle industry leads to considerable economic losses due to diarrhea, dehydration, growth retardation, weight loss, and possibly death, however, data on the occurrence ofCryptosporidiumspp. in cattle in Colombia are limited. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the occurrence and possible factors associated to the excretion of Cryptosporidium spp. oocyst in pre-weaned calves from dairy farms in Northern Antioquia, Colombia. In addition, Sheather’s sugar floatation (SSF), and Modified Ziehl-Neelsen staining (MZN) methods were compared. A total of 41 fecal samples were collected from calves between 1 and 92 days of age of which 23 were positive (56.1%). Crossbreed calves were nine times less susceptible than purebred dairy cattle to excretion of Cryptosporidium spp. oocysts (OR=0.10). MZN was the best technique for the detection of oocysts in fecal samples, however, the mean number of days to detect cryptosporidial oocysts was lower for the SSF method. Cryptosporidium is widespread among calves under 2 months of age in dairy herds of Northern Antioquia, although further investigations considering a greater number of farms and animals are necessary.

RESUMO Cryptosporidium spp. são importantes protozoários parasitas enteropatógenos que infectam humanos e outros animais em todo o mundo. A criptosporidiose na pecuária leiteira leva a perdas econômicas consideráveis devido à diarreia, à desidratação, ao retardo de crescimento, à perda de peso e possivelmente à morte, no entanto dados sobre a ocorrência de criptosporidiose em bovinos na Colômbia são limitados. Portanto, este estudo tem como objetivo investigar a ocorrência e possíveis fatores associados à excreção de oocistos de Cryptosporidium spp. em bezerros pré-desmamados de fazendas leiteiras no norte de Antioquia, Colômbia. Além disso, os métodos de flutuação de açúcar de Sheather (SSF) e de coloração de Ziehl-Neelsen modificado (MZN) foram comparados. Foram coletadas 41 amostras fecais de bezerros entre um e 92 dias de idade, das quais 23 foram positivas (56,1%). Bezerros mestiços foram nove vezes menos suscetíveis que bovinos leiteiros puros à excreção de oocistos de Cryptosporidium spp. (OR=0,10). MZN foi a melhor técnica para a detecção de oocistos em amostras fecais, entretanto o número médio de dias para detecção de oocistos foi menor para o método SSF. Cryptosporidium é amplamente difundido entre bezerros com menos de dois meses de idade em rebanhos leiteiros do norte de Antioquia, embora sejam necessárias mais investigações, considerando-se um maior número de fazendas e animais.

Resumen Las descargas de agua residual representan un gran problema de contaminación para el ambiente, ya que en muchos casos no se llegan a tratar de manera correcta y son depositados en los ríos y quebradas. Existen distintos tipos de tratamiento de agua residual entre los cuales resalta, debido a su eficacia, el tratamiento aerobio de lodos activados. Sin embargo, actualmente no existen muchos análisis en Costa Rica que sean específicos para estos lodos, de manera que se pueda dar un criterio de la calidad de estos, y por lo tanto del buen funcionamiento de la planta de tratamiento. Países como España han generado un Índice de Calidad de Lodos Activados utilizando el estudio de sus componentes, que ha permitido la caracterización de estos avanzando enormemente en temas de tratamiento de agua residual. Con el objetivo de realizar una caracterización para la aplicación de dicho Índice de Calidad de Lodos Activados en Costa Rica, se realizaron cuatro muestreos de lodos y de los efluentes de dos distintas Plantas de Tratamiento de Agua Residual, los cuales se analizaron tanto microbiológicamente como fisicoquímicamente, y se les aplicó el índice de lodos activados mencionado anteriormente. Se obtuvieron resultados positivos del índice categorizando los lodos activados como Buenos, coincidiendo con los análisis de calidad de los efluentes y demostrando que dicho índice es aplicable en las plantas de tratamiento aerobias de Costa Rica. Es necesario que el índice de lodos activados se realice como análisis de rutina para dar una caracterización completa de calidad a todas las PTAR de lodos activados.

Abstract Wastewater discharges represent a major pollution problem for the environment, since in many cases it is not treated correctly and is deposited in rivers and streams. There are different types of wastewater treatment among which, due to its effectiveness, the aerobic treatment of activated sludge stands out. However, currently, there are not many analyzes in Costa Rica that are specific to these sludge so that a criterion of their quality can be given, and therefore the proper functioning of the wastewater treatment plant. Countries like Spain have generated an activated sludge Quality Index using the study of its components, which has allowed the characterization of these, making enormous progress in wastewater treatment issues. In order to carry out a characterization for the application of said Activated Sludge Quality Index in Costa Rica, four samplings of sludge and effluents from two different Wastewater Treatment Plants were carried out, which were analyzed, both microbiologically and physicochemically, and the activated sludge index mentioned above was applied to them. Positive results of the index were obtained by categorizing the activated sludge as Good, coinciding with the effluent quality analyzes and showing that said index is applicable in the aerobic treatment plants of Costa Rica. It is necessary that the activated sludge index be performed as a routine analysis to give a complete quality characterization of all activated sludge WWTPs.

ABSTRACT Cutaneous leishmaniasis, caused by protozoa of the genus Leishmania, presents diverse clinical manifestations, and current therapeutic options have limitations, including long treatment periods, potential hospitalization, and excessive pain during treatment. Methyl gallate, a phenolic compound found in plants such as Libidibia ferrea, presents promising antileishmanial activity. Combining this compound with existing leishmaniasis medications could lead to reduced dosages and the minimization of side effects. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of a microemulsion containing methyl gallate, either on its own or in combination with Glucantime®, for the experimental treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis in a 30-day in vivo assay using golden hamsters infected with Leishmania (Leishmania) amazonensis. The control groups included an untreated positive control and an uninfected, untreated negative control. After treatment, we evaluated clinical, parasitological, and biochemical parameters. While none of the treatments achieved clinical or parasitological cure, notable improvements were observed in the combined group, with significant reductions in snout skin lesions and parasite load when compared to the control. Biochemical parameters such as creatinine, CK-MB, GOT, and GPT remained unchanged, but urea and CPK levels significantly increased in all the experimental groups relative to the control. In conclusion, the integration of a topical methyl gallate microemulsion with intralesional Glucantime® showed potential as an effective treatment for cutaneous leishmaniasis. Further investigations into optimal dosages and therapeutic schemes are warranted in order to enhance treatment outcomes.

RESUMO A leishmaniose cutânea, causada por protozoários do gênero Leishmania, apresenta diversas manifestações clínicas e as opções terapêuticas atuais têm limitações, incluindo longos períodos de tratamento, possível hospitalização e dor excessiva durante o tratamento. O galato de metila, um composto fenólico encontrado em plantas como Libidibia ferrea, mostra atividade antileishmania promissora. A combinação deste composto com os medicamentos existentes para leishmaniose pode levar a dosagens reduzidas e à minimização dos efeitos colaterais. Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a eficácia de uma microemulsão contendo galato de metila, isoladamente ou em combinação com Glucantime®, no tratamento experimental da leishmaniose cutânea em um ensaio in vivo de 30 dias em hamsters sírios infectados com Leishmania (Leishmania) amazonensis. Os grupos de controle incluíram um controle positivo não tratado e um controle negativo não infectado e não tratado. Após o tratamento, avaliamos parâmetros clínicos, parasitológicos e bioquímicos. Embora nenhum dos tratamentos tenha alcançado cura clínica ou parasitológica, melhorias notáveis foram observadas no grupo combinado, com redução significativa nas lesões cutâneas do focinho e na carga parasitária em comparação com o controle. Parâmetros bioquímicos como creatinina, CK-MB, TGO e TGP permaneceram inalterados, os níveis de ureia e CPK aumentaram significativamente em todos os grupos experimentais em relação ao controle. Em conclusão, a integração da microemulsão tópica de galato de metila com Glucantime® intralesional mostrou potencial como um tratamento eficaz para a leishmaniose cutânea. Mais investigações sobre dosagens ideais e esquemas terapêuticos são necessárias para melhorar os resultados do tratamento.

Resumen Este estudio tuvo como objetivo determinar la concentración de PC, EE, CNS, fibras, CFT, TC, CBD, THC, digestibilidad in vitro de materia seca y parámetros de fermentación ruminal de residuos agroindustriales de Cannabis sativa L. de dos procesos extractivos de cannabinoides, como fuente potencial de forraje en la alimentación de rumiantes. La flor de Cannabis sativa se expuso al proceso de extracción por prensado en frío (CPF) y extracción alcohólica (CEA); los residuos vegetativos obtenidos después de las extracciones se compararon con la flor cruda como testigo (FCC) utilizando un diseño completamente al azar y la prueba de Tukey para la comparación de medias. Los procesos extractivos disminuyeron el EE, CFT y cannabinoides (CBD y THC). En contraste, las fibras, CNS y digestibilidad, aumentaron después de los procesos extractivos en CPF y CEA. Del mismo modo, la degradabilidad in vitro aumentó después de ambos procesos extractivos por encima del 120 %, así como el período de latencia. Además, los protozoos aumentaron con CPF, pero no se observaron cambios en CEA. Asimismo, no se observaron cambios en las bacterias celulolíticas en CPF y CEA. Sin embargo, las bacterias totales se redujeron después de ambas extracciones. Además, el N-amoníaco en las fermentaciones ruminales disminuyó con CPF y CEA, mientras que los ácidos grasos volátiles totales aumentaron. Además, la producción de gas aumentó por encima del 75 % en CPF y CEA; sin embargo, no se observaron cambios en el período de latencia. Además, la producción de metano y CO2 aumentó por encima del 80 y 60 %, respectivamente, para CPF y CEA; estos aumentos se asocian positivamente con mejoras en las fermentaciones ruminales. En conclusión, el residuo agroindustrial de Cannabis sativa L. obtenido después de los procesos extractivos analizados puede surgir como una fuente potencial de forraje en la alimentación de rumiantes.

Abstract This study aimed to determine the concentration of CP, EE, NSC, fibers, TPC, CT, CBD, THC, in vitro digestibility of dry matter and rumen fermentation parameters of agroindustrial residues of Cannabis sativa L. from two extractive processes of cannabinoids, as a potential source of forage in ruminants feeding. The flower of Cannabis sativa was exposed to cold-press extraction (CPC) and alcoholic extraction (AEC) process; vegetative residues obtained after extractions were compared to raw flower as a control (RFC) using a completely randomized design and Tukey’s test for means comparison. Extractive processes decreased EE, TPC and cannabinoids (CBD and THC). Otherwise, fibers, NSC and digestibility, increased after the extractive processes in CPC and AEC. Similarly, in vitro degradability increased after both extractive processes above 120 % as well as latency period. Additionally, protozoa increased with CPC but no changes were observed in AEC. Likewise, no changes were observed in cellulolytic bacteria in CPC and AEC. However, total bacteria were reduced after both extractions. Moreover, N-ammonia in ruminal fermentations decreased with CPC and AEC whereas total volatile fatty acids increased. In addition, gas production increased above 75 % in CPC and AEC; however, no changes were observed in latency period. Furthermore, methane and CO2 production increased above 80 and 60 %, respectively for CPC and AEC; these augmentations are positively associated with improvements in the ruminal fermentations. In conclusions, the agroindustrial residue of Cannabis sativa L. obtained after the analyzed extractive processes may arise as a potential forage source in ruminants feeding.

ABSTRACT: Parasitic intestinal infections in dogs represent a problem for human health, because a wide variety of these parasites have zoonotic potential. Therefore, proximity to pets puts us at risk. The objective of this study was to determine the frequency and risk factors (age, sex, size, breed, presence of ectoparasites and gastrointestinal disorders) of intestinal parasites in the feces of dogs attending a Veterinary Hospital in the City of Mexicali, Baja California, Mexico. A total of 148 fecal samples were collected from canine patients and analyzed for parasite identification and parasite load. A 12.2% (18/148) of the samples were positive to parasitic intestinal infections. The frequency of specific infections was an 8.1% of Cryptosporidium sp., followed by a 2.7% of Cystoisospora sp., and 1.4% of Toxascaris leonina. A statistical significance was identified between the presence of intestinal parasites and mongrel breed. The predominance of protozoa shows the importance of diagnosis prior to treatment with anthelminthic drugs, since preventive antiparasitic protocols are commonly used, although these particular parasites are out of the spectrum of those drugs. Cryptosporidium spp. have zoonotic potential, particularly in immunocompromised patients, and there are few or no treatment options.

Over the past two decades, research into the effects of essential oils (EOs) on rumen microorganisms as an alternative to antibiotics has intensified. Yet, there are few investigations on rumen protozoa. To evaluate if EOs have antiprotozoal efficacy against rumen protozoa, the present investigation was conducted. Using the potentiality of rumen protozoa to digest 14C-labeled bacteria, the influence of EOs on in vitro protozoal activity was determined. For the study, orange peel, cinnamon, laurel, oleaster, garlic, and thyme essential oils were selected. Control (without essential oil), 500 mg/kg, 1000 mg/kg, and 5000 mg/kg dosages were used. Except for garlic oil, all essential oils showed a notable effect on antiprotozoal activity. The highest antiprotozoal impact was reported at 500 mg/kg and 1000 mg/kg doses of thyme oil, with respective reductions of 89.1% and 84.8% in bacteria degraded by protozoa. Cinnamon and oleaster oils had the strongest antiprotozoal efficacy at a concentration of 5000 mg/kg. At 5000 mg/kg doses of oleaster and cinnamon oils, the quantity of 14C-labeled bacteria degraded by protozoa was reduced by 96% compared to the group that served as the control. In conclusion, orange peel, cinnamon, laurel, oleaster, and thyme oils demonstrated remarkable in vitro antiprotozoal activity; however, more comprehensive research is required to analyse the effects of the EOs used in this study on rumen living groups such as protozoa, bacteria, and yeast and on rumen dynamics.

Abstract Leishmaniasis is transmitted by sandfly which carries the intracellular protozoa in their midgut. Among visceral, cutaneous and mucocutaneous leishmaniasis, visceral type that is caused by Leishmania donovani is the most lethal one. Findings of leishmanial structure and species took place in 19th century and was initiated by Donovan. Leishmaniasis is still a major concern of health issues in many endemic countries in Asia, Africa, the Americas, and the Mediterranean region. Worldwide1.5-2 million new cases of cutaneous leishmaniasis and 500,000 cases of visceral leishmaniasis are reported each year. Leishmaniasis is endemic in nearly 90 countries worldwide and close to 12 million new cases of leishmaniasis are reported worldwide annually. Studies on antileishmanial drug development is of major concern as leishmaniasis are the second largest parasitic killer in the world and the available drugs are either toxic or costly. The major surface GP63 protease, also known as Zinc- metalloproteases present on the surface of leishmanial promastigotes, can be targeted for drug development. Protease inhibitors targeting such surface proteases show promising results. Different protease inhibitors have been isolated from marine actinobacteria against many infectious diseases. Metabolites produced by these actinobacteria may have greater importance for the discovery and development of new antileishmanial drugs. Hence, this review discusses the background, current situation, treatment, and protease inhibitors from marine actinobacteria for drug development against GP63 molecules.

ABSTRACT Wastewater treatment system by activated sludge, the purification of the organic matter by specific heterogeneous microorganisms, occurs in the presence of oxygen in aeration tanks. The analysis of the microfauna present in the sludge is an important indicator of the performance and efficiency of the activated sludge system. Considering this importance, the objective of this work was to identify the microorganisms which are part of the microfauna present in the aeration tank of the effluent treatment plant of a soybean processing industry in the state of Mato Grosso, evaluating the biological activity of the sludge and the efficiency of the process. Protozoa and bacteria were identified through electronic microscopy and physical-chemical analyses such as pH, dissolved oxygen, nitrogen, phosphorus, BOD, COD, suspended solids, and SVI. During the study, it was possible to identify bacteria related to flake formation, organic matter degradation, nitrification and denitrification, and also microorganisms such as thecamoebas, micrometazoa, fixed ciliates and ciliates free natantes, characterizing the process with good purification and the structure of the sludge flakes between ideal and filamentous bulking with a high sludge age. The identification of the microfauna present was efficient as a bioindicator of the treatment system condition with removal of BOD and COD of 59.75 and 67.09%, respectively.

RESUMO No sistema de tratamento de efluentes por lodo ativado ocorre a depuração da matéria orgânica por microrganismos heterogêneos específicos, em presença de oxigênio nos tanques de aeração. A análise da microfauna presente no lodo é um importante indicador do desempenho e da eficiência do sistema de lodos ativados. Diante disso, o objetivo do trabalho foi identificar os microrganismos que compõem a microfauna do tanque de aeração da estação de tratamento de efluentes de uma indústria alimentícia processadora de soja do estado de Mato Grosso, avaliando a atividade biológica do lodo e a eficiência do processo. Foi realizada a identificação dos protozoários e das bactérias pela microscopia eletrônica, e fizeram-se as análises físico-químicas de pH, oxigênio dissolvido, nitrogênio, fósforo, demanda bioquímica de oxigênio, demanda química de oxigênio, sólidos suspensos e índice volumétrico de lodo. Durante o estudo, foi possível observar as bactérias relacionadas na formação do floco, na degradação da matéria orgânica, na nitrificação e na desnitrificação, e também microrganismos como as tecamebas, micrometazoários, ciliados fixos e ciliados livres natantes, que caracterizam o processo com alta idade de lodo, boa depuração e alta concentração de oxigênio dissolvido. A identificação da microfauna presente mostrou-se eficiente como bioindicadora da condição do sistema de tratamento, observando-se que o sistema da indústria se apresentou com boa depuração e com remoção de demanda bioquímica de oxigênio e demanda química de oxigênio, de 59,75 e 67,09%, respectivamente.

Abstract Protozoa of the Apicomplexa phylum are worldwide distributed with capacity to infect endothermic animals. The study of these protozoa in wild birds in Brazil is scarce. This study aimed to evaluate the occurrence of apicomplexan protozoa in wild birds in the Northeast of Brazil. From October to December 2019, brain tissue samples were collected from 71 captive birds from the Wild Animal Screening Center of the Pernambuco State (CETRAS-Tangara) and 25 free-living birds from the Caatinga biome in Rio Grande do Norte, totaling 96 animals (41 species). Brain fragments were subjected to molecular diagnosis by nested PCR for the 18s rDNA gene of Apicomplexa parasites, followed by DNA sequencing. This gene was detected in 25% (24/96) of the samples, and it was possible to perform DNA sequencing of 14 samples, confirming three genera: Isospora, Sarcocystis and Toxoplasma from eight bird species (Amazona aestiva, Coereba flaveola, Egretta thula, Paroaria dominicana, Sporophila nigricollis, Cariama cristata, Columbina talpacoti, Crypturellus parvirostris). The occurrence these coccidia in wild birds provides important epidemiological information for the adoption of preventive measures for its conservation. Future studies are needed to better understand the consequence of Apicomplexa infection in birds in Caatinga and Atlantic Forest biomes.

Resumo Protozoários do filo Apicomplexa são distribuídos mundialmente e com capacidade de infectar animais endotérmicos. O estudo destes protozoários, em aves silvestres do Brasil, é escasso. Objetivou-se avaliar a ocorrência de protozoários Apicomplexa em aves silvestres na região Nordeste do Brasil. De outubro a dezembro de 2019, foram coletadas amostras de encéfalo de 71 aves de cativeiro do Centro de Triagem e Reabilitação de Animais Silvestres de Pernambuco (CETRAS-Tangara). E 25 aves de vida livre do bioma Caatinga no Rio Grande do Norte, totalizando 96 animais (41 espécies). Os fragmentos de encéfalo foram submetidos ao diagnóstico molecular por nested PCR, para o gene 18s rDNA de protozoários Apicomplexa, seguido por sequenciamento do DNA. Este gene foi detectado em 25% (24/96) das amostras analisadas; foi possível realizar o sequenciamento de 14 amostras, confirmando-se três gêneros: Isospora, Sarcocystis e Toxoplasma em oito espécies de aves (Amazona aestiva, Coereba flaveola, Egretta thula, Paroaria dominicana, Sporophila nigricollis, Cariama cristata, Columbina talpacoti, Crypturellus parvirostris). A ocorrência destes coccídios nas aves silvestres fornece informações epidemiológicas importantes para a adoção de medidas preventivas tendo em vista sua conservação. Estudos futuros são necessários para melhor compreensão da consequência da infecção por Apicomplexa, em aves silvestres dos biomas Caatinga e Floresta Atlântica.

Abstract Gastrointestinal parasitism by helminths and protozoa poses risks to animal and human health owing to clinical changes and transmission of potentially zoonotic agents. Thus, the present study aimed to verify the occurrence of gastrointestinal parasites in dogs from the municipality of Cuiabá, Mato Grosso, Brazil, using coproparasitological tests. From June 2021 to April 2022, faecal samples were collected from domestic dogs at the Veterinary Hospital and Animal Protection Shelters in the Cuiabá municipality. A semi-structured questionnaire was applied to the owners and those responsible for the shelters to analyse the factors associated with gastrointestinal parasitism. A total of 353 faecal samples were collected and subjected to parasitological flotation and sedimentation techniques. Data were analysed using the chi-squared test and exploratory factorial analysis. The occurrence of gastrointestinal parasitism was 22.66% and the parasites found alone or in mixed infections were Ancylostoma spp., Trichuris vulpis, Toxocara spp., Dipylidium caninum, Cystoisospora spp., Giardia duodenalis, and coccidia. It was concluded that the occurrence of gastrointestinal parasites in dogs is frequent, and the variables associated with these infections were source origin, breed, age, coexistence with other animals, and dull fur.

Resumo O parasitismo gastrointestinal por helmintos e protozoários apresenta riscos à saúde animal e humana devido às alterações clínicas e transmissão de agentes potencialmente zoonóticos. Assim, o presente estudo teve como objetivo verificar a ocorrência de parasitoses gastrointestinais em cães do município de Cuiabá, Mato Grosso, Brasil, utilizando-se exames coproparasitológicos. De junho de 2021 a abril de 2022, foram coletadas amostras fecais de cães domésticos no Hospital Veterinário e Abrigos de Proteção Animal do município de Cuiabá. Foi aplicado um questionário semiestruturado aos tutores e responsáveis pelos abrigos para analisar os fatores associados ao parasitismo gastrointestinal. Um total de 353 amostras fecais foram coletadas e submetidas às técnicas de flotação e sedimentação parasitológica. Os dados foram analisados, utilizando-se o teste Qui-quadrado e a análise fatorial exploratória. A ocorrência de parasitismo gastrointestinal foi de 22,66%, e os parasitos encontrados isoladamente ou em infecções mistas foram Ancylostoma spp., Trichuris vulpis, Toxocara spp., Dipylidium caninum, Cystoisospora spp., Giardia duodenalis e Coccidia. Conclui-se que a ocorrência de parasitoses gastrointestinais em cães é frequente, e as variáveis associadas a essas infecções foram procedência, raça, idade, convivência com outros animais e pelagem opaca.

Abstract Gastrointestinal parasites are well-documented in small mammals from north-central Chile, but little is known about endoparasites of rodents in southern Chile. A survey was conducted between January and February 2018 to evaluate gastrointestinal parasites and risk factors of wild rodents that live in rural areas in Northern Chiloé Island, Chile. A total of 174 fecal samples from rodents of six native and one introduced species were collected and examined using the Mini-FLOTAC method. Also, 41 individuals of four native wild rodent species were examined furtherly to determinate adult parasites from gastrointestinal tracts. The overall prevalence of endoparasites was 89.65% (156). Helminth egg types included: Rodentolepis spp., Capillariidae, Trichuris sp., Syphacia sp., oxyurid-type eggs, Strongyloides sp., Spirurid-type eggs, Strongilid-type eggs, Moniliformis sp., and an unidentified nematode egg and larvae. Protozoa comprised coccidia, amoeba, and unidentified cysts. From necropsies, adult parasites involved Syphacia sp. Trichuris sp., Protospirura sp. and Physaloptera sp. In Abrothrix olivacea, individuals with low-body-mass index exhibited reduced infection probability for Spirurid-type and Strongilid-type eggs. Some parasites in this study may affect human health. In rural settings where environmental conditions are changing, more research should be undertaken to understand parasitic infections in wildlife and implications for public health and conservation.

Resumo Parasitos gastrointestinais são bem documentados em pequenos mamíferos do centro-norte do Chile, mas pouco conhecido sobre endoparasitos de roedores no sul do Chile. Uma pesquisa foi realizada entre janeiro e fevereiro de 2018, avaliando parasitas gastrointestinais e fatores de risco de roedores selvagens vivendo em áreas rurais no norte da Ilha de Chiloé, Chile. Um total de 174 amostras fecais de roedores de seis espécies nativas e uma introduzida foi coletado e examinado pelo método Mini-FLOTAC. Ademais, 41 indivíduos de quatro espécies nativas de roedores selvagens foram examinados para determinar parasitas adultos do trato gastrointestinal. A prevalência geral de endoparasitos foi de 89,65% (156). Os tipos de ovos de helmintos incluíram: Rodentolepis spp., Capillariidae, Trichuris sp., Syphacia sp.; dos tipos Oxyurideos, Strongyloides sp., dos tipos Spirurideos e Estrongilideos, Moniliformis sp.; e um ovo e larvas de nematoides não identificados. Os protozoários compreendiam coccídios, amebas e cistos não identificados. Nas necropsias, os parasitos adultos envolveram Syphacia sp. Trichuris sp., Protospirura sp. e Physaloptera sp. Em Abrothrix olivacea, indivíduos com baixo índice de massa corporal apresentaram probabilidade de infecção reduzida para ovos Spirurideos e Estrongilideos. Alguns parasitos, neste estudo, podem afetar a saúde humana. Em ambientes rurais, onde as condições ambientais mudam, mais pesquisas são necessárias para entender as infecções parasitárias na vida selvagem e as implicações para a saúde pública e conservação.

Abstract Diagnosis is crucial for controlling giardiasis. We determined the prevalence and genetically characterize isolates of Giardia duodenalis of children and dogs from rural communities in northeastern Brazil. G. duodenalis cysts were concentrated by centrifugal flotation/sedimentation. Molecular characterization was carried out using the loci ssu-rRNA, bg, tpi, and gdh. By parasitological techniques, Giardia spp. infection was detected in 72/192 children (37.5%; 95% CI: 30.6%-44.7%) and 24/139 dogs (17.3%; 95% CI: 11.4%-24.6%). By molecular analysis, infection was detected in 60/141 children (42.5%; 95% CI: 34.3%-51.2%) and 26/92 dogs (28.3%; 95% CI: 19.4%-38.6%). The total prevalence of giardiasis was 54.9% in children (106/193; 95% CI: 47.1%-61.6%) and 32.9% in dogs (47/143; 95% CI: 25.2%-41.2%). Zoonotic assemblages A and B of G. duodenalis were detected in children, and assemblage E of G. duodenalis was detected in one child and two dogs. Parallel use of parasitological and molecular techniques proved to be a more effective strategy for detecting giardiasis in children and dogs from endemic areas.

Resumo O diagnóstico é crucial para o controle da giardíase. Foram determinadas as prevalências e as características genéticas isoladas de Giardia duodenalis, em crianças e cães de comunidades rurais do nordeste brasileiro. Os cistos de G. duodenalis foram concentrados por centrífugo-flutuação/sedimentação. A caracterização molecular foi realizada utilizando-se os loci ssu-rRNA, bg, tpi e gdh. Pelas técnicas parasitológicas, a infecção por Giardia spp. foi detectada em 72/192 crianças (37,5%; IC 95%: 30,6%-44,7%) e 24/139 cães (17,3%; IC 95%: 11,4%-24,6%). Molecularmente, a infecção foi detectada em 60/141 crianças (42,5%; IC 95%: 34,3%-51,2%) e 26/92 cães (28,3%; IC 95%: 19,4%-38,6%). A prevalência total de giardíase foi de 54,9% em crianças (106/193; IC 95%: 47,1%-61,6%) e 32,9% em cães (47/143; IC 95%: 25,2%-41,2%). Os assemblages zoonóticos A e B de G. duodenalis foram detectados em crianças, e o assemblage E de G. duodenalis foi detectado nas duas populações. O uso paralelo de técnicas parasitológicas e moleculares mostra-se uma estratégia mais eficaz para detecção de giardíase em crianças e cães de áreas endêmicas.

Abstract This study aimed to determine the occurrence of anti-Toxoplasma gondii, Neospora caninum, and Leptospira spp. antibodies in sheep and goats raised in villages of the Xukuru do Ororubá indigenous community, Pernambuco, Brazil. A total of 180 serum samples from sheep and 108 serum samples from goats of both sexes and different ages were analyzed. For antibody research, indirect immunofluorescence antibody test (IFAT) were used for the protozoa T. gondii and N. caninum, and microscopic agglutination test (MAT) for Leptospira spp., with a cutoff titer of 1:64, 1:50 and 1:100, respectively. The frequency of anti-T. gondii antibodies was 16.6% (30/180) for sheep and 11.1% (12/108) for goats. The frequency of anti-N. caninum antibodies was 10.55% (19/180) for sheep, and 20.37% (22/108) for goats, while for Leptospira spp., 2.2% (4/180) of sheep and 1.85% (2/108) of goats reacted positively. The results obtained in this study are unprecedented in indigenous communities in the country and serve as an alert for monitoring goats and sheep from the Xukuru do Ororubá indigenous village regarding the occurrence and productive impact of infections by T. gondii, N. caninum, and Leptospira spp., in addition to the occurrence of the zoonosis toxoplasmosis and leptospirosis in the indigenous community.

Resumo Objetivou-se determinar a ocorrência de anticorpos anti-Toxoplasma gondii, Neospora caninum e Leptospira spp., em ovinos e caprinos criados em aldeias da comunidade indígena Xukuru do Ororubá, Pernambuco, Brasil. Foram analisadas 180 amostras de soro de ovinos e 108 amostras de soro de caprinos de ambos os sexos e diferentes idades. Para a pesquisa de anticorpos foi utilizada a técnica de Reação de Imunofluorescência indireta (RIFI), para os protozoários T. gondii e N. caninum e Aglutinação Microscópica (MAT) para Leptospira spp., com ponto de corte de 1:64, 1:50 e 1:100, respectivamente. A frequência de anticorpos anti-T gondii foi de 16,6% (30/180) em ovinos e 11,1% (12/108) em caprinos. A frequência de anticorpos anti-N. caninum foi de 10,55% (19/180) para ovinos e 20,37% (22/108) para caprinos, enquanto para Leptospira spp., 2,2% (4/180) dos ovinos e 1,85% (2/108) dos caprinos reagiram positivamente. Os resultados obtidos neste estudo são inéditos em comunidades indígenas do país e alertam para o monitoramento de caprinos e ovinos da aldeia indígena Xukuru do Ororubá, quanto à ocorrência e impacto produtivo de infecções por T. gondii, N. caninum e Leptospira spp., além da ocorrência de zoonoses como a toxoplasmose e leptospirose na comunidade indígena.