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Santos MAB, de Souza IB, de Macedo LO, do Nascimento Ramos CA, de Oliveira Rego AG, Alves LC, Ramos RAN, de Carvalho GA. Cercopithifilaria bainae in Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato ticks from dogs in Brazil. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2017; 8:623-625. [PMID: 28442240 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2017.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2016] [Revised: 04/11/2017] [Accepted: 04/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato (s.l.) ticks act as intermediate host for a range of canine vector-borne pathogens, including nematodes ranked in the genus Cercopithifilaria. Though being the object of several studies in the last years, information on the distribution of these parasites is still lacking. In this study, the occurrence of Cercopithifilaria spp. was investigated in on-host population of R. sanguineus s.l. collected from naturally infested dogs. Ticks (n=1906, including one larva, 294 nymphs and 1611 adults) were sampled on domestic dogs (n=155) living in the municipality of Garanhuns (northeastern Brazil). Tick collections (n=36) were performed every 8 days, from October 2015 to June 2016. Filarioid larvae detected at tick dissection were morphologically and morphometrically identified at species level. At the end of the study, only R. sanguineus s.l. ticks were collected, with the highest number in January 2016 (n=254) and the lowest in June 2016 (n=26). Out of 1906 dissected ticks, 2.68% (51/1906) harboured Cercopithifilaria bainae larvae, whose identification was molecularly confirmed, with a nucleotide identity of 99% with C. bainae. Data here reported indicate that, in the study area, R. sanguineus s.l. is the predominant tick infesting domestic dogs. Accordingly, these animals are at a high risk of C. bainae infection.
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Vasco MS, Alves LC, Corregidor V, Correia D, Godinho CP, Sá-Correia I, Bettiol A, Watt F, Pinheiro T. 3D map distribution of metallic nanoparticles in whole cells using MeV ion microscopy. J Microsc 2017; 267:227-236. [PMID: 28394445 DOI: 10.1111/jmi.12561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2016] [Accepted: 03/01/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
In this work, a new tool was developed, the MORIA program that readily translates Rutherford backscattering spectrometry (RBS) output data into visual information, creating a display of the distribution of elements in a true three-dimensional (3D) environment. The program methodology is illustrated with the analysis of yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae cells, exposed to copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO-NP) and HeLa cells in the presence of gold nanoparticles (Au-NP), using different beam species, energies and nuclear microscopy systems. Results demonstrate that for both cell types, the NP internalization can be clearly perceived. The 3D models of the distribution of CuO-NP in S. cerevisiae cells indicate the nonuniform distribution of NP in the cellular environment and a relevant confinement of CuO-NP to the cell wall. This suggests the impenetrability of certain cellular organelles or compartments for NP. By contrast, using a high-resolution ion beam system, discretized agglomerates of Au-NP were visualized inside the HeLa cell. This is consistent with the mechanism of entry of these NPs in the cellular space by endocytosis enclosed in endosomal vesicles. This approach shows RBS to be a powerful imaging technique assigning to nuclear microscopy unparalleled potential to assess nanoparticle distribution inside the cellular volume.
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Bezerra Santos MA, de Macedo LO, de Souza IB, do Nascimento Ramos CA, Alves LC, Ramos RAN, de Carvalho GA. Larvae of Ixodiphagus wasps (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae) in Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato ticks (Acari: Ixodidae) from Brazil. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2017; 8:564-566. [PMID: 28344035 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2017.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2017] [Revised: 03/12/2017] [Accepted: 03/15/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The biological control of ticks represents an alternative method to the chemical control, given its ecological-friendly approach. Amongst the alternatives, the use of parasitoids of the genus Ixodiphagus (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae) has been largely investigated. The aim of this study was to document and molecularly characterize Ixodiphagus wasps in ticks from a tropical region of Brazil. From October 2015 to March 2016, Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato ticks (n=1814) were collected from naturally infested dogs and Ixodiphagus larvae were detected by microscopic examination. In addition, adult wasps were obtained in the laboratory. Larvae and adults were molecularly identified as Ixodiphagus hookeri. These findings suggest that this type of parasitism deserves to be studied in local tick populations, in order to elucidate the role of these wasps as a potential alternative to chemical tick control.
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Santos EMDS, Cunha RCDSCD, Farias MPO, Fonseca CFD, Oliveira JBD, Carvalho RRND, Alves LC. Ticks and fleas in crab-eating fox (Cerdocyon thous) of Pernambuco state, Brazil. BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF VETERINARY RESEARCH AND ANIMAL SCIENCE 2016. [DOI: 10.11606/issn.1678-4456.bjvras.2016.110634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objetivou-se identificar as espécies de pulgas e carrapatos de Cerdocyon thous provenientes do estado Pernambuco. Foram examinados 20 animais, estando 30% (6/20) ectoparasitados. Foram coletadas 16 pulgas e 17 carrapatos em cachorros-do-mato de vida livre e de cativeiro no estado de Pernambuco. As pulgas foram identificadas como: Pulex irritans e Ctenocephalides felis; e os carrapatos foram: Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato e Amblyomma ovale. A presença de ectoparasitos de animais domésticos parasitando C. thous, sugere a aproximação de indivíduos desta espécie ao peridomicílio. Além disso, este é o primeiro relato da ocorrência de A. ovale em C. thous no nordeste brasileiro.
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Lima VFS, Bezerra TL, Andrade AFD, Ramos RAN, Faustino MADG, Alves LC, Meira-Santos PO. Gastrointestinal parasites of exotic birds living in captivity in the state of Sergipe, Northeastern Brazil. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA 2016; 26:96-99. [DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612016080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2016] [Accepted: 10/27/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Abstract Brazil has a wide diversity of exotic birds that were brought to this country during the European colonization. These animals are kept in captivity and, in some cases, in inadequate facilities, which may facilitate the introduction of pathogens, including gastrointestinal parasites. The purpose of this study was to identify the main gastrointestinal parasites that affect exotic birds living in captivity in the state of Sergipe, Northeastern Brazil. Fecal samples (n = 362) from exotic birds were analyzed by direct examination and by the Willis-Mollay technique. Eggs of Amidostomum sp., Ascaridia sp., Capillarinae, Heterakis sp., Trichostrongylidae, and oocysts of coccidians were identified in nine different bird species. This is the first report in Brazil of infection by Ascaridia sp. and Heterakis sp. in Nymphicus hollandicus; by Trichostrongylidae in Serinus canaria and Streptopelia risoria.
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Agra MCR, Costa PL, Duque AES, Soares ENL, Alves LC, Ramos RAN, Carvalho GAD. Sandflies (Diptera: Psychodidae) in an urban area of Northeastern Brazil. Rev Soc Bras Med Trop 2016; 49:698-702. [DOI: 10.1590/0037-8682-0147-2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2016] [Accepted: 11/22/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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Silva GRD, Santana IMD, Ferreira ACMDS, Borges JCG, Alves LC, Faustino MADG. AVALIAÇÃO DE FATORES EPIDEMIOLÓGICOS E SANITÁRIOS ASSOCIADOS À INFECÇÃO POR Cryptosporidium spp. EM CÃES DOMICILIADOS. CIÊNCIA ANIMAL BRASILEIRA 2016. [DOI: 10.1590/1089-6891v17i334579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Resumo O gênero Cryptosporidium é composto por protozoários com grande capacidade de reprodução e disseminação. Sua transmissão pode ocorrer indiretamente pela ingestão de água e alimentos contaminados com oocistos viáveis ou diretamente entre animais, entre humanos ou entre animais e humanos. Em diversas partes do mundo, animais de companhia tem sido citados como fontes potenciais de infecção por Cryptosporidium spp. O presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a ocorrência da infecção por Cryptosporidium spp. em cães domiciliados na cidade do Recife, estado de Pernambuco, Brasil, bem como a associação da infecção com dados epidemiológicos e sanitários. Foram analisadas 97 amostras de fezes de caninos domiciliados, utilizando-se as técnicas de centrífugo-sedimentação em formol-éter com posterior coloração pelo método de Kinyoun. A análise estatística foi realizada por meio dos testes Qui-quadrado de Pearson e Exato de Fisher, com nível de significância de 5,0%. Detectou-se positividade de 31,9% (31/97), tratando-se do primeiro registro de ocorrência da infecção por Cryptosporidium spp. na espécie canina no nordeste brasileiro, verificando-se associação significativa entre a taxa de infecção e a assistência médica veterinária, vacinação recebida e o tipo de ambiente de criação dos cães.
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Ramos RAN, de Oliveira do Rêgo AG, de Farias Firmino ED, do Nascimento Ramos CA, de Carvalho GA, Dantas-Torres F, Otranto D, Alves LC. Filarioids infecting dogs in northeastern Brazil. Vet Parasitol 2016; 226:26-9. [PMID: 27514878 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2016.06.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2016] [Revised: 06/16/2016] [Accepted: 06/17/2016] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Species of filarial nematodes belonging to the genera Dirofilaria and Acanthocheilonema are recognised as common parasites of dogs throughout the world. Recently, other filarioids featured by the presence of dermal microfilariae (e.g., Onchocerca lupi and Cercopithifilaria spp.) have been recognised in Europe. In Brazil, reports of filarioids in dogs are limited to Dirofilaria immitis, Acanthocheilonema reconditum and Cercopithifilaria bainae. To investigate the distribution of filarial infections in dogs living in an endemic region from northeastern Brazil, blood and skin samples (n=104) were microscopically (modified Knott's test and skin snip sediment examination) and molecularly evaluated. Twenty-two dogs (21.15%) were positive at microscopic and/or molecular examination for at least one filarioid species, with 21 (20.19%) animals positive for blood microfilariae at molecular and/or at microscopic examination. Microfilariae of D. immitis were detected in 12 (11.54%) animals, with co-infection of D. immitis and A. reconditum observed in four (3.85%) individuals. One animal was positive for C. bainae at both microscopic and molecular examination. Analysis of sequence obtained in the present study showed significant alignment identity with that of C. bainae from Europe. Considering that in the area of study arthropod vectors (mosquitoes, fleas and ticks) are prevalent throughout the year, preventive measures should be disposed in order to avoid the animal infestation and pathogen infection.
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Monteiro MFM, Ramos RAN, Calado AMC, Lima VFS, Ramos ICDN, Tenório RFL, Faustino MADG, Alves LC. Gastrointestinal parasites of cats in Brazil: frequency and zoonotic risk. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA 2016; 25:254-7. [DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612016019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2015] [Accepted: 11/18/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Abstract Gastrointestinal helminths are considered to be the most common parasites affecting cats worldwide. Correct diagnosis of these parasites in animals living in urban areas is pivotal, especially considering the zoonotic potential of some species (e.g. Ancylostoma sp. and Toxocara sp.). In this study, a copromicroscopic survey was conducted using fecal samples (n = 173) from domestic cats living in the northeastern region of Brazil. Samples were examined through the FLOTAC technique and the overall results showed positivity of 65.31% (113/173) among the samples analyzed. Coinfections were observed in 46.01% (52/113) of the positive samples. The most common parasites detected were Ancylostoma sp., Toxocara cati, Strongyloides stercoralis, Trichuris sp., Dipylidium caninum and Cystoisospora sp. From an epidemiological point of view, these findings are important, especially considering that zoonotic parasites (e.g. Ancylostoma sp. and Toxocara sp.) were the nematodes most frequently diagnosed in this study. Therefore, the human population living in close contact with cats is at risk of infection caused by the zoonotic helminths of these animals. In addition, for the first time the FLOTAC has been used to diagnosing gastrointestinal parasites of cats in Brazil.
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Lima VFS, Ramos RAN, Lepold R, Cringoli G, Rinaldi L, Faustino MADG, Alves LC. Use of the FLOTAC technique to diagnosing parasites of the urinary tract of dogs. Parasitol Res 2016; 115:1737-9. [DOI: 10.1007/s00436-016-4950-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2016] [Accepted: 01/29/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Khosravi R, Sendi JJ, Brayner FA, Alves LC, Feitosa APS. Hemocytes of the Rose Sawfly Arge ochropus (Gmelin) (Hymenoptera: Argidae). NEOTROPICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2016; 45:58-65. [PMID: 26429582 DOI: 10.1007/s13744-015-0339-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2014] [Accepted: 09/14/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
We characterized individual morphological types of the rose sawfly, Arge ochropus (Gmelin) (Hymenoptera: Argidae), hemocytes for the first time by means of light and differential interference contrast microscopy and scanning and transmission electron microscopy. Four types of hemocytes were identified in the hemolymph of larvae and pupae of A. ochropus: prohemocytes, plasmatocytes, granulocytes, and oenocytoids. Prohemocytes are the smallest type of hemocytes, rounded to ovoid cells with large nuclei. Plasmatocytes are polymorphic and variable in size. Granulocytes are oval and spherical cells variable in size, with variable number of rough endoplasmic reticulum, mitochondria, and microtubules in the cytoplasm. Oenocytoids contain eccentric nucleus and cytoplasm with small mitochondria and few rough endoplasmic reticula. Differential hemocyte counts indicated that plasmatocytes are the most abundant hemocyte type during early instars while granulocytes are the most abundant hemocyte type in the last instar. The pattern of total hemocyte count changed during rose sawfly development and reached its peak in prepupae and then declined slowly in the pupal stage.
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Santana BBD, Ramos RAN, Faustino MADG, Alves LC, Carvalho GAD. Evaluation of the efficacy of cypermethrin and amitraz against Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus, in the State of Pernambuco, Brazil. ARQUIVOS DO INSTITUTO BIOLÓGICO 2016. [DOI: 10.1590/1808-1657001202013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT: The Rhipicephalus (Boophilus )microplus is an important tick species which affect bovines in tropical areas. Its control is based on the use of chemical acaricides, but the frequent use of these substances has been conducted to the development of tick resistance. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of cypermethrin and amitraz against R. (B. )microplus collected of bovines from different municipalities of the state of Pernambuco. From August 2009 to July 2011, engorged females were collected and subjected to the "Adult Immersion Test" in order to evaluate the efficacy of cypermethrin and amitraz. The results indicate that populations of R. (B. )microplus from Pernambuco present resistance to acaricides (i.e., cypermethrin and amitraz). In this study, a single population (Brejo da Madre de Deus) was susceptible to cypermethrin, whereas two (Timbaúba and Limoeiro) were susceptible to amitraz. Data herein reported follow a pattern observed in other regions of Brazil and alert to the fact that alternative measures of control should be implemented in this area studied.
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Silva FMDF, Santos EMDS, Torres SM, Yamasak EM, Ramos RAN, Alves LC. Parasite load in intact and ulcerative skin of dogs with leishmaniais. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA = BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY : ORGAO OFICIAL DO COLEGIO BRASILEIRO DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA 2016; 25:127-130. [PMID: 27007246 DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612016014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2015] [Accepted: 07/22/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
The skin is the site of inoculation of Leishmania spp. in susceptible hosts, and consequently dermatopathies, especially ulcerative dermatitis, are the main clinical signs observed. The aim of this study was to assess parasitism of the skin (intact and ulcerated) among dogs that were naturally infected by Leishmania spp., through immunohistochemical analysis. Skin fragments (intact and ulcerated) were collected from 13 dogs with positive parasitological (bone marrow aspiration and exfoliative skin) and serological examinations (ELISA S7 Biogene) for Leishmania spp. These samples were processed using the immunohistochemical technique, involving the streptavidin-peroxidase complex. Ulcerative lesions were mainly observed on the elbows (53.84%; 7/13), nostrils (15.38%; 2/13), ears (23.07%; 3/13) and wings of the ilium (7.69%; 1/13). A severe parasite load was detected in 46.15% and 76.92% of the intact and ulcerated skin samples tested, respectively. The parasite load on ulcerated skin was statistically higher than on intact skin (p = 0.0221). These results indicate that the intact and ulcerated skin may host a high parasite load of amastigote forms of Leishmania spp., which can favor the transmission of the parasite.
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Rocha ÉMD, Lopes CWG, Ramos RAN, Alves LC. Risk factors for Toxoplasma gondii infection among pregnant women from the State of Tocantins, Northern Brazil. Rev Soc Bras Med Trop 2015; 48:773-5. [DOI: 10.1590/0037-8682-0074-2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2015] [Accepted: 05/04/2015] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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Feitosa APS, Alves LC, Chaves MM, Veras DL, Silva EM, Aliança ASS, França IRS, Gonçalves GGA, Lima-Filho JL, Brayner FA. Hemocytes of Rhipicephalus sanguineus (Acari: Ixodidae): Characterization, Population Abundance, and Ultrastructural Changes Following Challenge with Leishmania infantum. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2015; 52:1193-1202. [PMID: 26336264 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjv125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2015] [Accepted: 08/03/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Few studies have examined the cellular immune response of ticks, and further research on the characterization of the hemocytes of ticks is required, particularly on those of Rhipicephalus sanguineus (Latreille) because of the medical and veterinary importance of this tick. The aims of this study were to characterize the morphology and the ultrastructure of the different types of hemocytes of adult R. sanguineus and to determine the population abundance and the ultrastructural changes in the hemocytes of ticks infected with Leishmania infantum. The hemocytes were characterized through light and transmission electron microscopy. Within the variability of circulating cells in the hemolymph of adult R. sanguineus, five cell types were identified, which were the prohemocytes, plasmatocytes, granulocytes, spherulocytes, and adipohemocytes. The prohemocytes were the smallest cells found in the hemolymph. The plasmatocytes had polymorphic morphology with vesicles and cytoplasmic projections. The granulocytes had an elliptical shape with the cytoplasm filled with granules of different sizes and electrodensities. The spherulocytes were characterized by several spherules of uniform shapes and sizes that filled the entire cytoplasm, whereas the adipohemocytes had an irregular shape with multiple lipid inclusions that occupied almost the entire cytoplasmic space. The total counts of the hemocyte population increased in the group that was infected with L. infantum. Among the different cell types, the numbers increased and the ultrastructural changes occurred in the granulocytes and the plasmatocytes in the infected group of ticks.
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Ramos RAN, Lima VFS, Monteiro MFM, de Andrade Santana M, Lepold R, Faustino MADG, Rinaldi L, Cringoli G, Alves LC. New insights into diagnosis of Platynosomum fastosum (Trematoda: Dicrocoeliidae) in cats. Parasitol Res 2015; 115:479-82. [DOI: 10.1007/s00436-015-4763-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2015] [Accepted: 09/28/2015] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Lima VFS, Cringoli G, Rinaldi L, Monteiro MFM, Calado AMC, Ramos RAN, Meira-Santos PO, Alves LC. A comparison of mini-FLOTAC and FLOTAC with classic methods to diagnosing intestinal parasites of dogs from Brazil. Parasitol Res 2015; 114:3529-33. [PMID: 26122998 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-015-4605-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2015] [Accepted: 06/19/2015] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Dogs may be affected by different species of gastrointestinal parasites which present great importance in veterinary medicine and public health. Several techniques to diagnosing these parasites have been proposed, but different performances achieved by each method make difficult the choice of the best technique to be used. In this study, the performance of two classic methods (i.e., Willis and Hoffman techniques) and two recent techniques (i.e., FLOTAC and Mini-FLOTAC) to diagnosing gastrointestinal parasites of dogs was evaluated. Fecal samples (n = 127) of dogs divided in pools (n = 30) were collected and analyzed using four different techniques (see above). Eggs and/or oocysts of gastrointestinal parasites were detected in 93.3 % (28/30) of the samples. In particular, 20 % (6/30) were detected through the method of Hoffman, 53.3 % (16/30) by the Willis technique, and 63.3 % (19/30) and 90 % (27/30) by Mini-FLOTAC and FLOTAC, respectively. Ancylostomatidae, Trichuris vulpis and Toxocara canis were the most frequent parasites herein detected. The FLOTAC and Mini-FLOTAC techniques were the most efficient tools to detect eggs and/or oocysts of gastrointestinal parasites of dogs, therefore their use is recommended in the laboratorial routine of veterinary medicine. This study is the first report of the use of both techniques (i.e., FLOTAC and Mini-FLOTAC) to diagnosing parasites of dogs in Brazil.
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Pimentel DDS, Ramos RAN, Santana MDA, Maia CS, Carvalho GAD, Silva HPD, Alves LC. Prevalence of zoonotic visceral leishmaniasis in dogs in an endemic area of Brazil. Rev Soc Bras Med Trop 2015; 48:491-3. [DOI: 10.1590/0037-8682-0224-2014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2014] [Accepted: 12/18/2014] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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Miranda DEDO, Sales KGDS, Faustino MADG, Alves LC, Brandão-Filho SP, Dantas-Torres F, de Carvalho GA. Ecology of sand flies in a low-density residential rural area, with mixed forest/agricultural exploitation, in north-eastern Brazil. Acta Trop 2015; 146:89-94. [PMID: 25792416 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2015.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2015] [Revised: 02/28/2015] [Accepted: 03/07/2015] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Cutaneous leishmaniasis caused by Leishmania braziliensis is endemic in Brazil, where Lutzomyia whitmani is the most important vector involved in the transmission to humans, particularly in the peridomestic environment. Herein, we assessed the ecology of sand flies, including Lu. whitmani, in a low-density residential rural area with mixed forest/agricultural exploitation in north-eastern Brazil, where cutaneous leishmaniasis is endemic. Particularly, we hypothesized that sand fly abundance was correlated with climatic variables. Sand fly collections were carried out monthly from August 2013 to August 2014, using seven CDC light traps, for three consecutive nights, in three kinds of environments: indoor, peridomicile and forest. Collected sand flies were identified based on morphology and females of Lu. whitmani (n=169), Lu. amazonensis (n=134) and Lu. complexa (n=21) were selected and tested by PCR for Leishmania (Viannia) spp. In total, 5167 sand flies belonging to 19 species were identified, being that Lu. choti (43.2%) was the most frequent species, followed by Lu. amazonensis (16.6%), Lu. whitmani (15.8%), Lu. sordellii (10.7%) and Lu. quinquefer (5.8%), which together represented over 90% of the collected sand flies. All females tested by PCR were negative. The number of sand flies collected daily was positively correlated with temperature and negatively correlated with rainfall and relative humidity. Furthermore, there was a positive correlation between daily number of sand flies and daily average saturation deficit. This study points out that the number of sand flies captured daily is correlated to climatic variables, including saturation deficit, which may represent a useful parameter for monitoring sand fly populations in leishmaniasis-endemic areas.
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Labarthe NV, Paiva JP, Reifur L, Mendes-de-Almeida F, Merlo A, Carvalho Pinto CJ, Juliani PS, de Almeida MAO, Alves LC. Updated canine infection rates for Dirofilaria immitis in areas of Brazil previously identified as having a high incidence of heartworm-infected dogs. Parasit Vectors 2014; 7:493. [PMID: 25376238 PMCID: PMC4229606 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-014-0493-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2014] [Accepted: 10/20/2014] [Indexed: 03/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Canine heartworm infections were frequently diagnosed in Brazil before the new millennium. After the year 2000, the frequency of diagnosis showed a sharp decline; however, a few years later, new evidence indicated that the parasite was still present and that canine infection rates seemed to be increasing. Therefore, an updated survey of canine heartworm prevalence was conducted in several locations in south, southeast, and northeast Brazil. Methods Dogs from 15 locations having previously reported a high prevalence of heartworm infection were included in the survey according to defined criteria, including the absence of treatment with a macrocyclic lactone for at least 1 year. Blood samples from 1531 dogs were evaluated by an in-clinic immunochromatography test kit (Witness® Heartworm, Zoetis, USA) for detection of Dirofilaria immitis antigen. At each location, epidemiologic data, including physical characteristics and clinical signs reported by owners or observed by veterinarians, were recorded on prepared forms for tabulation of results by location, clinical signs, and physical characteristics. Results The overall prevalence of canine heartworm infection was 23.1%, with evidence of heartworm-infected dogs detected in all 15 locations studied. There was a tendency for higher prevalence rates in environmentally protected areas, despite some locations having less-than-ideal environmental temperatures for survival of vector mosquitoes. Among physical characteristics, it was noted that dogs with predominantly white hair coats and residing in areas with a high (≥20%) prevalence of heartworm were less likely to have heartworm infection detected by a commercial heartworm antigen test kit than were dogs with other coat colors. In general, dogs older than 2 years were more frequently positive for D. immitis antigen than were younger dogs. Clinical signs of heartworm infections were rare or owners were unable to detect them, and could not be used for reliable prediction of the presence of heartworm. Conclusions These results indicate that the prevalence of D. immitis has increased in these areas of Brazil over the past few years. Small animal practitioners in these areas should include routine screening tests for heartworm infections in every dog’s annual evaluation protocol and make sure to have uninfected dogs on prevention.
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dos Santos JP, Alves LC, Ramos RAN, Pimentel DDS, de Carvalho GA, Monteiro MFM, Faustino MADG. Histological changes and immunolabeling of Leishmania infantum in kidneys and urinary bladder of dogs. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 22:420-3. [PMID: 24142176 DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612013000300017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2013] [Accepted: 03/20/2013] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to assess histological alterations and perform immunolabeling of Leishmania infantum in the kidneys and urinary bladder of naturally infected dogs. Twenty-five urinary bladder and kidney samples of serologically positive animals (ELISA S7® Biogene and IFAT ≥ 1:40 - Biomanguinhos/Fiocruz) were analyzed by means of immunohistochemical and histological techniques. Cystitis was found in 44% (11/25) of the bladder samples and membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis in 92% (23/25) of the kidney samples. Immunolabeling of the parasite revealed that 32% (8/25) of the bladders and 8% (2/25) of the kidneys were positive. In conclusion, the immunohistochemical technique is a useful tool for detecting amastigote forms of L. infantum in organs of infected dogs. In addition, this was the first report of detection of amastigote forms of L. infantum in the bladders of dogs.
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Guerra NR, Alves BHLES, Farias MPO, Mota RA, Alves LC. Frequency of Toxoplasma gondii antibodies in bovines in the state of Pernambuco, Brazil. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA 2014; 23:417-9. [DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612014056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2014] [Accepted: 06/11/2014] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis is a parasitic disease caused by Toxoplasma gondii that affects homeothermic animals, including humans. Felines are considered the definitive host of this parasite, while other animals act as intermediate hosts. The purpose of this study was to assess the frequency of anti-T. gondii IgG antibodies in bovines in the state of Pernambuco, Brazil. Serum samples (n = 427) from animals in 13 municipalities of the coastal forest/plantation region of the state were analyzed using the immunofluorescent antibody test (IFAT). The overall results revealed a prevalence rate of 16.63% (27/427). High percentages of positivity were found among animals aged 25 to 36 months (28.57%; 30/42) and in males (22.22%; 2/9). The present findings suggest that bovine toxoplasmosis is endemic in the area under study.
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Torres SM, Cruz NLND, Rolim VPDM, Cavalcanti MIDA, Alves LC, Silva Júnior VAD. Cumulative mortality of Aedes aegypti larvae treated with compounds. Rev Saude Publica 2014; 48:445-50. [PMID: 25119939 PMCID: PMC4203074 DOI: 10.1590/s0034-8910.2014048005022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2013] [Accepted: 02/10/2014] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the larvicidal activity of Azadirachta indica, Melaleuca
alternifolia, carapa guianensis essential oils and fermented
extract of Carica papaya against Aedes
aegypti (Linnaeus, 1762) (Diptera: Culicidae). METHODS The larvicide test was performed in triplicate with 300 larvae for each
experimental group using the third larval stage, which were exposed for 24h.
The groups were: positive control with industrial larvicide (BTI) in
concentrations of 0.37 ppm (PC1) and 0.06 ppm (PC2); treated with compounds
of essential oils and fermented extract, 50.0% concentration (G1); treated
with compounds of essential oils and fermented extract, 25.0% concentration
(G2); treated with compounds of essential oils and fermented extract, 12.5%
concentration (G3); and negative control group using water (NC1) and using
dimethyl (NC2). The larvae were monitored every 60 min using direct
visualization. RESULTS No mortality occurred in experimental groups NC1 and NC2 in the 24h exposure
period, whereas there was 100% mortality in the PC1 and PC2 groups compared
to NC1 and NC2. Mortality rates of 65.0%, 50.0% and 78.0% were observed in
the groups G1, G2 and G3 respectively, compared with NC1 and NC2. CONCLUSIONS The association between three essential oils from Azadirachta
indica, Melaleuca alternifolia, Carapa guianensis and fermented
extract of Carica papaya was efficient at all
concentrations. Therefore, it can be used in Aedes aegypti
Liverpool third larvae stage control programs.
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Silva CMD, Sérvio HS, Ramos RAN, Faustino MADG, Alves LC, Carvalho GAD. Occurrence of immature forms of culicids (Insecta: Diptera) in the northeastern region of Brazil. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA 2014; 23:200-5. [PMID: 25054499 DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612014046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2014] [Accepted: 04/16/2014] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The Culicidae family is represented by approximately 3,610 species, among which many are involved in transmission of pathogens and parasites, thus presenting great medical-veterinary importance. In Brazil, the state of Pernambuco is considered an endemic area for many diseases vectored by mosquitoes, such as human and canine filariasis, caused by Wuchereria bancrofti and Dirofilaria immitis, respectively. The aim of this study was to evaluate the occurrence of immature forms of culicids, over an one-year period, in a specific area of northeastern region of Brazil. Culicids larvae were collected from traps located on the ground and in treetops, between october 2012 and september 2013. Ten different species of culicids were identified. The greatest number of larvae were collected in september 2013 and the lowest number in december 2012. Stegomyia (Stegomyia) albopicta (46.45%; 5,908/12,718), Culex (Culex) maxi (35.56%; 4,523/12,718) and Limatus durhamii (12.58%; 1,600/12,718) were the most frequent species. The human and animal populations living in the study area are exposed to culicids and transmission agents throughout the year, especially after the rains. Therefore, control and prevention measures against culicids must be adopted in the study area.
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Araújo R, Castanhinha R, Martins RMS, Mateus O, Hendrickx C, Beckmann F, Schell N, Alves LC. Filling the gaps of dinosaur eggshell phylogeny: Late Jurassic Theropod clutch with embryos from Portugal. Sci Rep 2014; 3:1924. [PMID: 23722524 PMCID: PMC3667465 DOI: 10.1038/srep01924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2012] [Accepted: 05/02/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The non-avian saurischians that have associated eggshells and embryos are represented only by the sauropodomorph Massospondylus and Coelurosauria (derived theropods), thus missing the basal theropod representatives. We report a dinosaur clutch containing several crushed eggs and embryonic material ascribed to the megalosaurid theropod Torvosaurus. It represents the first associated eggshells and embryos of megalosauroids, thus filling an important phylogenetic gap between two distantly related groups of saurischians. These fossils represent the only unequivocal basal theropod embryos found to date. The assemblage was found in early Tithonian fluvial overbank deposits of the Lourinhã Formation in West Portugal. The morphological, microstructural and chemical characterization results of the eggshell fragments indicate very mild diagenesis. Furthermore, these fossils allow unambiguous association of basal theropod osteology with a specific and unique new eggshell morphology.
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