Toxoplasma gondii infection in pig intended for human consumption: seroprevalence, risk factors and influence of biosecurity measures / Infecção por Toxoplasma gondii em suínos destinados ao consumo humano: soroprevalência, fatores de risco e influência de medidas de biosseguridade

Abstract A serologic and epidemiologic study was carried out in order to determinate herd and animal seroprevalence and associated factors for Toxoplasma gondii in commercial pigs from Espírito Santo state, Brazil. Blood samples were collected from 416 pigs from 55 producer farms in 27 municipalities. An indirect immunofluorescent assay (IFA) was performed to estimate the seroprevalence of T. gondii and identify the associated risk factors using a questionnaire. The T. gondii antibody prevalence rate in commercial swine herds was 15.4% (64/416) using a cutoff of 1:64. The seropositivity for T. gondii was related to the presence of cats, water origin and age of swine in the increase of seroprevalence, and the existence of internal isolation fences and use of composting chambers as protective factors. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to report anti- T. gondii antibodies in the serum of pigs in the state of Espírito Santo, Brazil. This finding is important to public health because seropositive pigs can harbor tissue cysts in their meat, thereby representing a zoonotic risk for consumers of raw or undercooked porcine meat or its products.

Resumo Um estudo sorológico e epidemiológico foi realizado com o objetivo de determinar a soroprevalência nas granjas e animais e também em fatores associados para Toxoplasma gondii em suínos comerciais do estado do Espírito Santo, Brasil. Foram coletadas amostras de sangue de 416 suínos de 55 granjas produtoras de 27 municípios. A reação de imunofluorescência indireta (RIFI) foi realizada com o uso de questionário, para estimar a soroprevalência do T. gondii e identificar os fatores de risco associados. A taxa de prevalência de anticorpos contra T. gondii, nos rebanhos comerciais de suínos, foi de 15,4% (64/416) com ponto de corte de 1:64. A soropositividade para T. gondii foi relacionada à presença de gatos, origem da água, a idade dos suínos no aumento da soroprevalência, a existência de cercas de isolamento interno e uso de câmaras de compostagem como fatores de proteção. De acordo com este estudo, ele é o primeiro a relatar anticorpos anti-T. gondii no soro de suínos no estado do Espírito Santo, Brasil. Este achado é importante para a saúde pública, pois suínos soropositivos podem abrigar cistos teciduais em suas carnes, representando um risco zoonótico para os consumidores de carne suína crua ou mal cozida ou seus produtos.

Mycoplasma spp. in captive snakes (Boa constrictor and Bothrops atrox) from Brazil / Mycoplasma spp. em cobras de cativeiro (Boa constrictor e Bothrops atrox) do Brasil

ABSTRACT: Although rare, mycoplasmas are included among the causes of respiratory diseases in reptiles and, in the order Squamata, three reports of these microorganisms causing diseases in pythons have already been reported. This study aimed to evaluate the occurrence of Mycoplasma species in captive snakes. A total of 26 snakes of the families Pythonidae (13), Boidae (7), Viperidae (5) and Colubridae (1) from RioZoo, Brazil, were evaluated. Animals were examined to determine clinical signs consistent with any infectious disease. Tracheal swab samples from snakes were collected in Frey medium and analyzed for the presence of Mycoplasma spp.by isolation and a genus-specific PCR. DNA sequencing analyses of six positive samples by PCR were carried out to identify the species. Using isolation 19.23% (5/26) was positive, while 65.38% (17/26) of the animals were positive by PCR. Based on the analyses of the six sequences obtained, there was similarity with a Mycoplasma spp. previously described in a phyton and, M. agassizii and M. testudineum reported in chelonians. This is the first report of Mycoplasma spp. in animals of the families Boidae and Viperidae. Mycoplasma spp. were detected in snakes with and without clinical signs. The mycoplasmas reported resented identity (range, 95% to 100%) to others already described in reptiles. There was no relationship between the presence of Mycoplasma spp. and clinical signs.

RESUMO: Embora raros, os micoplasmas estão incluídos entre as causas de doenças respiratórias em répteis e, na ordem Squamata, já foram realizados três relatos destes microrganismos causando doença em pítons. Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a ocorrência de espécies de Mycoplasma em serpentes em cativeiro. Foram avaliadas 26 serpentes das famílias Pythonidae (13), Boidae (7), Viperidae (5) e Colubridae (1) do RioZoo, Brasil. Os animais foram examinados para determinar sinais clínicos consistentes com qualquer doença infecciosa. Amostras de swab traqueal de cobras foram coletadas em meio Frey e analisadas por isolamento microbiológico e pela técnica da PCR para identificar Mycoplasma spp. As amostras positivas para o gênero Mycoplasma spp. foram submetidas ao sequenciamento genético para identificação das espécies. No isolamento, 19,23% (5/26) foram positivos, enquanto 65,38% (17/26) dos animais foram positivos por PCR. Com base nas análises das seis sequências obtidas, houve similaridade com o Mycoplasma spp. descrito anteriormente em um píton e M. agassizii e M. testudineum encontrados em quelônios. Este é o primeiro relato de Mycoplasma spp. em animais das famílias Boidae e Viperidae. Mycoplasma spp. foi detectado em serpentes com e sem sinais clínicos. Os micoplasmas encontrados apresentaram semelhança genética com outros já descritos em répteis. Não houve relação entre a presença de Mycoplasma spp. e sinais clínicos.

Risk factors associated with intramammary colonization with Mollicutes in dairy cattle from Southeast Brazil / Fatores de risco associados à colonização intramamária por Mollicutes em bovinos leiteiros do Sudeste brasileiro

ABSTRACT: Bacteria of Mollicutes Class are associated with intramammary infection and decrease in milk production. This study investigated the occurrence of Mollicutes and elucidated their risk factors in dairy herds from Southeast Brazil. For this, milk samples from 387 lactation cows from Minas Gerais, Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo States were subjected to the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to detect Mollicutes. Species of Mycoplasma were investigated in Mollicutes positive samples by PCR, including Mycoplasma bovis, M. alkalescens, M. bovigenitalium, M. bovirhinis, M. arginini and A. laidlawii. An epidemiological questionnaire was applied to collect data on possible risk factors, which were assessed using Pearson's Chi-square test followed by odds ratio (P≤0.05). Mollicutes were reported in 21% (4/19) of the herds and 4% (16/387) of the animals, while 1% (5/387) were positive for M. bovis and 3% (11/387) for M. arginini. All samples were negative to the other agents. Herds with more than 150 animals [OR=3.51 (95% CI 1.11-11.08)], manual milking [OR=9.97 (95% CI 2.80-35.49)] and not-milking animals with mastitis last [OR=6.54 (95% CI 1.92-22.29)] were risk factors. The presence of these conditions may favor intramammary infection by Mollicutes in dairy herds from Southeast Brazil. This is the first report of M. bovis in Rio de Janeiro and M. arginini in the studied states.

RESUMO: Bactérias da Classe Mollicutes estão associadas à infecção intramamária e diminuição da produção leiteira. O objetivo deste estudo foi investigar a ocorrência de Mollicutes e elucidar seus fatores de risco em rebanhos leiteiros do sudeste brasileiro. Para isso, amostras de leite de 387 vacas em lactação dos estados de Minas Gerais, Rio de Janeiro e São Paulo foram submetidas à reação em cadeia da polimerase (PCR) para detectar Mollicutes. Espécies de Mycoplasma foram investigadas nas amostras positivas por PCR, incluindo Mycoplasma bovis, M. alkalescens, M. bovigenitalium, M. bovirhinis, M. arginini e A. laidlawii. Foi aplicado um questionário epidemiológico para a coleta de dados sobre possíveis fatores de risco, que foram avaliados pelo teste de Qui-Quadrado de Pearson seguido de odds ratio (P≤0.05). Mollicutes foram detectados em 21% (4/19) dos rebanhos e 4% (16/387) dos animais, enquanto 1% (5/387) destes foram positivos para m. bovis, 3% (11/387) para m. arginini, sendo todas as amostras negativas para os demais agentes. Rebanhos com mais de 150 animais [OR=3,51 (95% IC 1,11-11,08)], ordenha manual [OR=9,97 (95% IC 2,80-35,49)] e ausência de linha de ordenha [OR=6,54 (95% IC 1,92-22,29)] foram considerados fatores de risco. A presença dessas condições pode favorecer a infecção intramamária por Mollicutes em rebanhos leiteiros no sudeste do Brasil. Este é o primeiro relato de M. bovis no Rio de Janeiro e M. arginini nos estados estudados.

Free-living capybaras (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) in an urban area in Brazil: biochemical and hematological parameters

Capybaras have found favorable conditions for survival and reproduction in green urban environments. In recent years, the population of these large rodents has been increasingly abundant in several brazilian cities such as Uberlândia, a municipality of the southeastern region with a Cerrado biome. Capybaras are important in the Brazilian Spotted Fever epidemiological chain, by amplifying infection rates of the vector population. However, knowledge of this host's physiology is scarce. Thus, the aim of this work was to describe hematological and biochemical parameters of free-living capybaras groups in urbanized areas in the city of Uberlândia, Minas Gerais State, Brazil. Capybaras were captured in 4 different locations of Uberlândia city, Minas Gerais state, including 1 Condominium (P1), 1 Private Market Garden (P2), 1 Private Club (P3) and 1 Municipal Park (P4). The animals were baited into an octagonal iron corral and chemically contained with anesthetic darts. After sedated, blood was collected from the femoral vein in tubes with and without EDTA. Biochemical evaluation, hematological analysis with differential leukocyte counts and search for Dirofilaria sp. were done. The blood count and biochemistry values obtained from animals of different ages, sex and sectors (P1, P2, P3 and P4) were submitted to the Shapiro-Wilk normality test, considering 95% significance. Values that had a normal distribution were subjected to ANOVA tests followed by Student's t-test. Values that did not follow normality were submitted to the Kruskal-Wallis test, to obtain a P-value, with a significance level of 95%. A total of 19 capybaras were captured: 4 in P1, 6 in P2, 4 in P3 and 5 in P4. From the 19 animals, 13 were females (68.42%) and 6 were males (31.57%), 12 adults (63.15%) and 7 juveniles (36.84%). Apart from occasional skin scars and moderate to intense Ambyomma spp. tick infestations, all captured animals were healthy on a broad examination. From 5 animals captured in P4, despite the use of anticoagulant, blood from 4 animals clotted fast. No microfilariae were found in the thick drop test in any of the 19 animals sampled, and in 2 adult female capybaras captured in P1, Kurloff cells were observed. Hematological and biochemical values presented no major differences when comparing sex and age. Nevertheless, differences in liver and kidney profile were observed between the capybara groups, including ALT, alkaline phosphorus, BUN and creatinine. Blood from 4 animals clotted fast, despite the use of EDTA tubes. Blood clotting of samples with anticoagulant in this work could be associated with some physiological features inherent to capybaras. Many attempts were required to obtain enough blood from each individual due to the rapid hemostasis, what come in accordance with reports in literature. Kurloff cells were observed in 2 adult female capybaras captured in P1, which can be found in peripheral blood of female rodents during follicular phase of estrous cycle. Hematological and biochemical values differences in liver enzymes such as ALT and alkaline phosphorus, and kidney profile enzymes including BUN and creatinine could be associated to capture stress or dietetic variation between groups. Despite statistical relevant, the values were still in accordance with other works, although comparisons should be done with caution since various environments exert a diverse array of stimulus upon the animals such as parasitic, infective, stress, nutritional, social and undoubtedly blood parameters mirror them. In conclusion, this work contributes to the standardization of free-living capybaras' physiological parameters in urban areas.(AU)

Perfil clínico e laboratorial de cadelas sororeativas para erliquiose tratadas em um Hospital Veterinário Universitário em Niterói, Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil / Clinical and laboratory profile of dogs seroreactive to ehrlichiosis treated at the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital in Niterói, State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Ehrlichiosis is a tick-borne disease highly prevalent in Brazil, and is relevant in canine clinical practice due to its high morbidity and mortality. Its clinical signs are nonspecific and its phases are acute, lasting 2 to 4 weeks; subclinical, i.e., asymptomatic; and chronic, resembling an autoimmune disease. The purpose of this study was to identify the occurrence of reactivity to Ehrlichia canis of bitches treated at the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital of the Universidade Federal Fluminense (UFF) - Niterói, RJ, Brazil, based on serological examination by iELISA, and to compare the hematological, biochemical, urinary protein-creatinine and urinary density profiles of reactive and non-reactive animals. This study involved solely bitches, regardless of breed, starting at 1 year of age. One hundred and thirty bitches, 1 to 16 year-old (mean age 7.02 ± 4.00), weighing 1.5 to 50 kg (mean weight 12.12 ± 10.65) were subjected to clinical examination and abdominal ultrasound. Complete blood count, biochemical measurements, urinalysis and serology for E. canis were also performed. The serum was used in the iELISA to identify immunoglobulin G (IgG), using a canine Ehrlichia Imunotest® diagnostic kit (Imunodot®, Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil) according to the manufacturer's instructions. Sixty animals (46.20%) were reactive to E. canis. According to their owners, only 5 (8.3%) of the 60 seroreactive animals had a history of tick-borne disease. The most common profile was that of mixed breed animals living with their owners, older than 7 years, who had not been treated preventatively with specific drugs against ectoparasites. Laboratory tests showed significant differences between groups in terms of total protein (TP), and calcium and urinary protein-creatinine ratio (UPC). TP and UPC were elevated in the non-reactive group, while the only significant change in the reactive group was mild hypocalcemia. In this study, 30% (18/60) of the bitches were seroreactive to E. canis and had hypocalcemia. Of these, 50% (9/18) had a UPC above 0.5. Furthermore, 66.7% (12/18) of this group with hypocalcemia also showed urine density (UD) of less than 1024. Among these 18 bitches, 5 had both alterations, i.e., UPC > 0.5 and UD < 1024. In this study, a high prevalence of bitches seroreactive to Ehrlichia canis was observed, despite the absence of clinical and/or laboratory signs indicative of the disease. In the investigation of IgG class antibodies, it is not possible to determine the exact time of infection, and titers may remain high for a period of more than 11 months, even after treatment and elimination of the bacterium. The fact that most seroreactive bitches showed no symptoms compatible with the disease either before or during the study suggests that they were in the subclinical phase of ehrlichiosis. The main reason for calcium metabolism disorders is a phosphorus imbalance, a condition that occurs in kidney diseases. Isosthenuria reflects the kidney's inability to concentrate urine. This finding may be one of the first clinical manifestations of chronic kidney disease (CKD), especially in dogs. On the other hand, the UPC ratio may increase with the progression of CKD. The presence of hypocalcemia, isosthenuria and increased UPC associated with seroreactivity suggests that infection by E. canis may be associated with the onset of CKD. Veterinarians should keep in mind the complexity of the pathophysiology of ehrlichiosis to ensure the disease is not underdiagnosed in any of its phases, thereby ensuring the correct treatment is provided. Such awareness is expected to reduce the chronicity of the disease and underlying sequelae among dogs.(AU)

Análise da ocorrência dos critérios de Favrot e das comorbidades apresentadas por cães com dermatite atópica atendidos no Hospital Veterinário da Universidade Federal Fluminense / Analysis of the occurrence of Favrot's criteria and comorbidities presented by dogs with atopic dermatitis treated at the Veterinary Hospital of Universidade Federal Fluminense

O objetivo desse trabalho foi analisar a ocorrência dos critérios de Favrot em cães diagnosticados com Dermatite Atópica Canina (DAC) no Hospital Veterinário Professor Firmino Mársico Filho da Universidade Federal Fluminense, bem como sua associação com doenças concomitantes. Foram analisadas 2199 fichas propedêuticas com queixas dermatológicas, dos anos de 2016 e 2017. Do total, 165 (7,5%) animais foram diagnosticados com DACdos quais 94 (57%) eram fêmeas e 71 (43%) machos. Embora os cães mestiços fossem a maioria dos casos (22,4%), a raça pura mais frequentemente acometida foi a Poodle (12,5%). Foram identificados 134 (81,2%) cães com cinco ou mais critérios de Favrot, sendo 32,7% animais com seis critérios, 26,7% com cinco critérios, 17,0% com sete critérios e 4,8% com oito critérios. Enfatiza-se o aparecimento em mais de 90% dos casos os critérios intradomiciliado, com prurido primário, responsivo à corticoterapia e com bordas das pinas não acometidas. Dos 165 animais avaliados, 115 (69,7%) eram portadores de uma ou mais afecções concomitantes à DAC, sendo a otite externa a principal (73%). Considera-se que os critérios de Favrot podem ser aplicados para a triagem dos pacientes com suspeita de dermatite atópica canina atendidos no HUVET-UFF.

The objective of this study was to analyze the occurrence of Favrot criteria in dogs diagnosed with Canine Atopic Dermatitis (CAD) at the Veterinary Hospital Professor Firmino Mársico Filho of Universidade Federal Fluminense, as well as its association with concomitant diseases. A total of 2199 propaedeutic records with dermatological complaints from 2016 and 2017 were analyzed. Of the total, 165 (7.5%) animals were diagnosed with CAD. Among those diagnosed with CAD, 94 (57%) were females and 71 (43%) males. Although crossbreed dogs were the majority of cases (22.4%), the purebred dog most frequently affected by CAD was the Poodle (12.5%). One hundred and thirty four (81.2%) animals were identified with five or more Favrot criteria, 32.7% animals with six criteria, 26.7% with five criteria, 17.0% with seven criteria and 4.8% with eight criteria. It emphasizes the appearance in more than 90% of criteria, dog living mostly indoors,alesional pruritus, glucocorticoid-responsive pruritus and nonaffected ear margins. Of the 165 animals evaluated, 115 (69.7%) had one or more conditions concomitant with CAD, with otitis externa being the main one (73%). It is considered that the Favrot criteria can be applied for the screening of patients with suspected canine atopic dermatitis treated at HUVET-UFF.

Análise da ocorrência dos critérios de Favrot e das comorbidades apresentadas por cães com dermatite atópica atendidos no Hospital Veterinário da Universidade Federal Fluminense / Analysis of the occurrence of Favrot’s criteria and comorbidities presented by dogs with atopic dermatitis treated at the Veterinary Hospital of Universidade Federal Fluminense

O objetivo desse trabalho foi analisar a ocorrência dos critérios de Favrot em cães diagnosticados com Dermatite Atópica Canina (DAC) no Hospital Veterinário Professor Firmino Mársico Filho da Universidade Federal Fluminense, bem como sua associação com doenças concomitantes. Foram analisadas 2199 fichas propedêuticas com queixas dermatológicas, dos anos de 2016 e 2017. Do total, 165 (7,5%) animais foram diagnosticados com DAC dos quais 94 (57%) eram fêmeas e 71 (43%) machos. Embora os cães mestiços fossem a maioria dos casos (22,4%), a raça pura mais frequentemente acometida foi a Poodle (12,5%). Foram identificados 134 (81,2%) cães com cinco ou mais critérios de Favrot, sendo 32,7% animais com seis critérios, 26,7% com cinco critérios, 17,0% com sete critérios e 4,8% com oito critérios. Enfatiza-se o aparecimento em mais de 90% dos casos os critérios intradomiciliado, com prurido primário, responsivo à corticoterapia e com bordas das pinas não acometidas. Dos 165 animais avaliados, 115 (69,7%) eram portadores de uma ou mais afecções concomitantes à DAC, sendo a otite externa a principal (73%). Considera-se que os critérios de Favrot podem ser aplicados para a triagem dos pacientes com suspeita de dermatite atópica canina atendidos no HUVET-UFF.

The objective of this study was to analyze the occurrence of Favrot criteria in dogs diagnosed with Canine Atopic Dermatitis (CAD) at the Veterinary Hospital Professor Firmino Mársico Filho of Universidade Federal Fluminense, as well as its association with concomitant diseases. A total of 2199 propaedeutic records with dermatological complaints from 2016 and 2017 were analyzed. Of the total, 165 (7.5%) animals were diagnosed with CAD. Among those diagnosed with CAD, 94 (57%) were females and 71 (43%) males. Although crossbreed dogs were the majority of cases (22.4%), the purebred dog most frequently affected by CAD was the Poodle (12.5%). One hundred and thirty four (81.2%) animals were identified with five or more Favrot criteria, 32.7% animals with six criteria, 26.7% with five criteria, 17.0% with seven criteria and 4.8% with eight criteria. It emphasizes the appearance in more than 90% of criteria, dog living mostly indoors,alesional pruritus, glucocorticoid-responsive pruritus and nonaffected ear margins. Of the 165 animals evaluated, 115 (69.7%) had one or more conditions concomitant with CAD, with otitis externa being the main one (73%). It is considered that the Favrot criteria can be applied for the screening of patients with suspected canine atopic dermatitis treated at HUVET-UFF.

Spotted fever group rickettsial infection in dogs and their ticks from domestic-wildlife interface areas in southeastern Brazil / Infecção por rickettsias do Grupo da Febre Maculosa em cães e carrapatos de áreas de interface doméstico-silvestre no sudeste Brasileiro

Abstract Rickettsia rickettsii is the causative agent of Brazilian spotted fever (BSF), for which humans and dogs are both susceptible. Dogs are sentinels in serological surveys, however, canine disease is rarely reported. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate natural infection by spotted fever group (SFG) Rickettsia spp. in dogs and ticks collected from domiciles close to forest fragments, featuring domestic-wildlife interface areas. Samples from 115 dogs and 135 ixodids were assessed by polymerase chain reactions (PCR) targeting the gltA gene for Rickettsia spp. and the ompA gene for the SFG rickettsial species. One dog (0.87%; 1/115) was positive for R. rickettsii. This dog presented nonspecific laboratory and clinical abnormalities (thrombocytopenia, hyperproteinemia, lymph node enlargement, emaciation, anorexia, and lethargy). Rickettsia parkeri was identified in 2.96% (4/135) of the ticks (Amblyomma sculptum, A. aureolatum, and Rhipicephalus sanguineus). This study confirmed the presence of SFG bacteria in non-endemic and preserved locations, where domestic and wild populations interact. We reinforce the fact that the dog is susceptible to natural R. rickettsii infection. Although this is a rare finding, preventive measures should be taken against BSF in the studied areas. Finally, R. parkeri infection is possibly being demonstrated in A. sculptum for the first time.

Resumo Rickettsia rickettsii é o agente causador da Febre Maculosa Brasileira (FMB), doença na qual humanos e cães são susceptíveis. Os cães são sentinelas nos inquéritos sorológicos, contudo, a doença canina é raramente descrita. Assim sendo, objetivou-se avaliar a infecção natural por Rickettsia spp. do Grupo da Febre Maculosa (GFM) em cães e carrapatos obtidos de domicílios próximos a fragmentos de mata, caracterizando áreas de interface doméstico-silvestre. Amostras de 115 cães e 135 ixodídeos foram avaliadas pela reação em cadeia da polimerase (PCR) tendo como alvo o gene gltA de Rickettsia spp. e o gene ompA das espécies do GFM. Um cão (0,87%; 1/115) foi positivo para R. rickettsii. Este animal apresentou alterações clínicas e laboratoriais inespecíficas (trombocitopenia, hiperproteinemia, linfonodos edemaciados, emagrecimento, anorexia e letargia). Rickettsia parkeri foi identificada em 2,96% (4/135) dos carrapatos (Amblyomma sculptum, A. aureolatum e Rhipicephalus sanguineus). Este estudo confirmou a presença de bactérias do GFM em locais preservados e não endêmicos, onde populações domésticas e silvestres interagem. Reforçamos o fato do cão ser susceptível à infecção natural por R. rickettsii. Embora este seja um achado raro, medidas preventivas devem ser tomadas contra a FMB nas áreas estudadas. Em última análise, a infecção por R. parkeri possivelmente está sendo demonstrada pela primeira vez em A. sculptum.

Eustrongylides sp. (Nematoda, Dioctophymatoidea) parasitizing Hoplias malabaricus (Actinopterygii: Erythrinidae) collected from the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil / Eustrongylides sp. (Nematoda, Dioctophymatoidea) parasitando Hoplias malabaricus (Actinopterygii: Erythrinidae) coletados do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil

Abstract Hoplias malabaricus (Characiformes, Erythrinidae), trahira, is a neotropical freshwater fish of economic and public health significance. A total of 45 specimens of H. malabaricus commercialized in the municipality of Magé, state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, were acquired between April 2016 and April 2018 to investigate the presence of nematode larvae. Twenty of the fish were found parasitized by 347 fourth-stage nematode larvae identified taxonomically as Eustrongylides sp. using morphological, morphometric and molecular data. The parasitic indices were: prevalence 44.44%, mean intensity 17.35, mean abundance 7.71, and range of infection 2-40. Infection sites were musculature, mesentery, abdominal cavity, and serosa of intestine, stomach and liver. This is the first report of Eustrongylides sp. larvae parasitizing H. malabaricus in the state of Rio de Janeiro.

Resumo Hoplias malabaricus (Characiformes, Erythrinidae), traíra, é um peixe neotropical de água doce que tem significante impacto na economia e saúde pública. De abril de 2016 a abril de 2018, foram adquiridos 45 espécimes de H. malabaricus comercializados no município de Magé, Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil. Os peixes foram necropsiados e filetados para investigação da presença de larvas de nematoides. Vinte dos peixes coletados estavam parasitados por 347 larvas de nematoides, identificadas taxonomicamente como larvas de quarto estágio de Eustrongylides sp. usando-se dados morfológicos, morfométricos e moleculares, apresentando os seguintes valores: prevalência de 44,44%, intensidade média de 17,35, abundância média de 7,71, e amplitude de variação da infecção de 2-40. Os sítios de infecção foram musculatura, mesentério, cavidade abdominal e serosas do intestino, estômago e fígado. Este é o primeiro registro de larvas de Eustrongylides sp. parasitando H. malabaricus no Estado do Rio de Janeiro.

Circulation of spotted fever group rickettsiae among dogs seropositive for Leishmania spp. in an urban area of Brazil

Abstract INTRODUCTION: Dogs play an epidemiological role in several vector-borne diseases that affect human and animal health worldwide. We aimed to identify rickettsial circulation among dogs with canine visceral leishmaniasis (CVL) from a region endemic for both diseases. METHODS: CVL-seropositive dogs were screened for spotted fever group rickettsiae using an indirect immunofluorescence assay. RESULTS: Among the CVL-positive dogs, anti-Rickettsia rickettsii antibodies were identified in one asymptomatic and one oligosymptomatic dog. CONCLUSIONS: This study shows low circulation of antibodies to R. rickettsii in CVL-seropositive dogs. It is recommended that surveillance studies in dogs should continue in order to monitor this scenario.

Ticks on buffaloes (Bubalusbubalis) in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil / Carrapatos em búfalos (Bubalusbubalis) do estado do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil

Some tick species have been described parasitizing buffaloes, but reports from Brazil are rare. This study aimed to ascertain the species of ticks that parasitize buffaloes in the state of Rio de Janeiro. Seventeen farm properties were visited between June 2008 and December 2009, and buffaloes were inspected in relation to infestation. The ticks were identified and a semi-structured questionnaire on parasitism and treatment against ticks was filled out through interviews with the owners. The species identified were Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus, Dermacentornitens and Amblyommacajennense. It was noted that 82.3% (14/17) of the properties visited presented animals infested with ticks, although 76.5% (13/17) had been administering acaricide treatment. Buffaloes in the state of Rio de Janeiro are often parasitized by ticks, especially in the larval and nymph stages.

Algumas espécies de carrapatos foram descritas parasitando bubalinos, porém são raros os relatos no Brasil. O presente trabalho teve como objetivo conhecer as espécies de carrapatos que parasitam bubalinos no estado do Rio de Janeiro. Dezessete propriedades foram visitadas de junho de 2008 a dezembro de 2009 e os bubalinos foram inspecionados para verificar infestação. Os carrapatos foram identificados e um questionário semi estruturado sobre o parasitismo e o tratamento contra carrapatos foram preenchidos por meio de entrevista com os proprietários. Foram identificadas as espécies Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus, Dermacentornitens e Amblyommacajennense. Foi observado que 82,3% (14/17) das propriedades visitadas apresentavam animais parasitados por carrapatos, embora 76,5% (13/17) realizassem tratamento acaricida. Búfalos do estado do Rio de Janeiro são frequentemente parasitados por carrapatos, principalmente nos estágios de larvas e ninfas.

Assessment of weight gain and biological parameters of Rhipicephalus sanguineus females fed artificially via capillary tubes / Avaliação do ganho de peso e dos parâmetros biológicos de fêmeas Rhipicephalus sanguineus alimentadas artificialmente por meio de tubos capilares

This study assesses the weight gain of partially engorged Rhipicephalus sanguineus females that were artificially fed via capillary tubes and the influence of capillary tube feeding on the biological parameters of the non-parasitic stage of the species. The ticks were sorted into four groups, each containing ten females of a homogeneous weight. The groups were each treated for different feeding times, 2, 6, 12 and 24 hours. The weight gain of the artificially fed females was measured, and the biological parameters of the non-parasitic stage of the tick were observed for each treatment group. The statistical non-parametrical Dunn and Kruskal-Wallis tests were used to compare the results. The mean weights (mg) were 0.2±2.4; 4.3±5.8; 7.4±5.8 and 12.0±11.2 for the 2, 6, 12 and 24 hours feeding groups, respectively. The weight of the fed groups increased as the capillary feeding time increased, and this relationship was highly significant (P<0.05) between the groups fed for 2 and 24 hours. No statistically significant differences (P>0.05) were observed in the parameters of the non-parasitic stage for the artificially fed groups. It can be concluded that artificial feeding via capillary tubes provides an efficient and easy method for the artificial intake of blood by R. sanguineus. Furthermore, it was noted that the ticks fed in vitro were able to establish a new generation. The experimental method shows great promise in studies that aim to investigate biological disease agents.

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o ganho de peso de fêmeas Rhipicephalus sanguineus parcialmente ingurgitadas alimentadas artificialmente por meio de tubos capilares e verificar a sua influência nos parâmetros biológicos da fase não parasitária. Os carrapatos foram separados em quatro grupos de peso homogêneo compostos por 10 fêmeas cada. Os grupos foram submetidos a diferentes tempos de alimentação: 2, 6, 12 e 24 horas. Para comparação dos resultados, foram utilizados os testes estatísticos não paramétricos Dunn e Kruskal-Wallis. Os pesos médios (mg) adquiridos foram de 0,2±2,4; 4,3±5,8; 7,4±5,8 e 12,0±11,2 nos grupos de 2, 6, 12 e 24 horas, respectivamente. O peso dos grupos alimentados foi maior à medida que o tempo de exposição ao tubo capilar aumentou, observando-se diferença significativa (P<0,05) entre os grupos alimentados por 2 e 24 horas. Não houve diferenças estatísticas significativas (P>0,05) nos parâmetros relativos à fase não parasitária entre os grupos submetidos à alimentação artificial. Concluiu-se que a alimentação artificial por meio de tubos capilares é um método de fácil execução e eficiente para ingestão de sangue por carrapatos R. sanguineus. Além disso, verificou-se que os carrapatos alimentados in vitro foram capazes de estabelecer uma nova geração. Esse método tem potencial para o desenvolvimento de estudos que visem a transmissão de bioagentes.

Parâmetros biológicos de fêmeas adultas Amblyomma cajennense alimentadas em coelhos tratados com bioterápico ultradiluído / Biological parameters of Amblyomma cajennense adult females fed on rabbits treated with ultradiluted biotherapic

Os bioterápicos são considerados medicamentos homeopáticos por serem preparados de acordo com a farmacotécnica homeopática, submetidos à diluição e dinamização. Com o objetivo de avaliar os efeitos da administração de bioterápico ultradiluído sobre parâmetros biológicos de carrapatos Amblyomma cajennense, oito coelhos de três meses de idade, separados em dois grupos de quatro animais, constituindo os grupos tratado e controle, receberam o bioterápico na potência 30 DH (Decimal Hering) e soro fisiológico 30DH, respectivamente. Em seguida, os animais foram infestados experimentalmente com 10 casais de carrapatos A. cajennense e submetidos novamente aos referidos tratamentos. O bioterápico ultradiluído foi preparado a partir de carrapatos adultos machos e fêmeas de A. cajennense. Foram avaliados parâmetros biológicos relativos à postura e à eclosão larval de A. cajennense. De acordo com os resultados obtidos, não foram detectados efeitos significativos sobre os parâmetros biológicos de fêmeas A. cajennense alimentadas em coelhos tratados com o bioterápico, quando comparados ao grupo controle. Novos testes, envolvendo outras espécies hospedeiras e o acompanhamento de infestações subseqüentes, devem ser dedicados à avaliação do potencial terapêutico profilático dos bioterápicos ultradiluídos nas ectoparasitoses dos animais domésticos.

The biotherapics are considered homeopathic medicine because are produced in agreement to the homeopathic pharmacotechnic being diluted and dinamizated. To evaluate the effects of ultradiluted biotherapic on biologic parameters of Amblyomma cajennense ticks, 8 rabbits, about 3 months old, were divided into 2 groups of 4 animals each: treated and control groups which received biotherapic 30 DH potency (Hering’s decimal) and 30DH physiologic serum, respectively. Following, the animals were infested with 10 couples A. cajennense and treated again. The ultradiluted biotherapic was made with A. cajennense male and female adult ticks. Significant alterations were not observed on biological parameters of females A. cajennense fed on rabbits treated with the biotherapic, when compared to the control group. New tests, involving other host species and the attendance of subsequent infestations should be developed to evaluate the therapeutic / profilatic potential of the ultra-diluted biotherapics on infestation of the domestic animals.

Ocorrência de anticorpos homólogos anti-Borrelia burgdorferi em eqüinos de propriedades dos municípios de Três Rios e Vassouras, estado do Rio de Janeiro / Occurrence of homologs antibodies against Borrelia burgdorferi in equines of properties from the municipalities of Três Rios and Vassouras, of Rio de Janeiro state

Borrelia burgdorferi é uma espiroqueta transmitida por carrapatos, de ampla distribuição geográfica, que acomete o homeme animais domésticos, tendo os animais silvestres como reservatórios. O presente estudo teve como objetivo relatar aocorrência de eqüinos soropositivos para B. burgdorferi, por meio de inquérito soroepidemiológico utilizando o ensaio deimunoadsorção enzimática (ELISA) indireto. Procedeu-se a análise sorológica de 747 soros de eqüinos, onde 431 pertenciamao município de Três Rios e 316 ao de Vassouras, ambos do estado do Rio de Janeiro. Um total de 212 (28,4%) animais forampositivos ao ensaio. O resultado observado foi similar aos descritos para animais no Brasil e Estados Unidos da América,tendo sido verificado que os animais apresentaram anticorpos homólogos anti-Borrelia burgdorferi stricto sensu, corroborandocom a ocorrência de Borrelia sp. em eqüinos no estado do Rio de Janeiro

Lyme Borreliosis is a widely distributed spirochetosis hosted by wild animals, which transmitted to domestic animals as wellas man by ticks. The present study aims to observe the occurrence level of positive tested equines to Borrelia burgdorferi, on twomunicipalities of Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil, by seroepidemiologic inquiry using the indirect Enzime-Linked ImmunosorbentAssay. A serologic analysis was performed on 747 equines serum specimens, which 431 were from Três Rios and 316 werefrom Vassouras municipality. For this test, 212 (28.4%) animals were positive. The results observed were similar to thosedescribed for animals in Brazil and United States of America, confirming that the animals of the studied municipalities showedanti Borrelia burgdorferi homologs antibodies