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Abstract Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus is a leading cause of significant economic losses in the livestock industry, and tick populations have developed multiple forms of resistance to acaricides; therefore, the potential of novel natural bioactive compounds that are effective for targeting ticks must be addressed. The aim of this study was to evaluate the acaricidal and anticholinesterase activities of R. aculeata seeds and to identify naturally occurring compounds that potentially inhibit anticholinesterase through in silico docking. The acaricidal activity of the extract of R. aculeata seeds against larval and adult R. microplus ticks was assessed through immersion tests. Inhibition of anticholinesterase activity was measured spectrophotometrically. Extracts of R. aculeata seeds showed activity against larvae and engorged females of R. microplus, and a reduction in the reproductive index were also observed. Rutin, chlorogenic acid, quercetin, and epicatechin exhibited noteworthy interactions with the active site residues of RmAChE. These findings could significantly contribute to the exploration of novel natural products that can potentially inhibit RmAChE and could be used in the development of new acaricides for tick control.

Abstract The aim of the present study was to report on the occurrence of parasitism by Amblyomma rotundatum ticks on two species of Teiidae lizards and test the presence of rickettsiae in the collected ticks, in the western Brazilian Amazon region. Ticks were collected in July 2019, from a fragment of terra firme forest in the municipality of Senador Guiomard, Acre, Brazil. Two lizards that were infested by immature stages of ticks were caught using mist net and Tomahawk traps. Ectoparasites were collected manually, and the lizard specimens were identified and released at the same location where they had been caught. Three nymphs and 49 larvae were collected from Ameiva ameiva, while 25 nymphs and nine larvae were collected from Tupinambis cuzcoensis, which are both in the family Teiidae. The ticks were identified morphologically as belonging to the genus Amblyomma. Nymphs were identified at species level through molecular analysis, resulting in the tick species Amblyomma rotundatum. This is the first record of parasitism by the tick A. rotundatum on T. cuzcoensis lizard, and the first report of an association between A. rotundatum and the lizard species A. ameiva and T. cuzcoensis in Acre, in the western part of the Amazon region.

There is an increase in reported tick-borne illnesses as the tick geographic range expands past historical boundaries. Prescribed fires, ignited intentionally for specific management goals, can indirectly affect tick abundance by disrupting tick predator and prey interactions and altering suitable tick habitat. The high temperatures during prescribed fires can also directly induce tick mortality. Repeated prescribed fires in southeastern United States tick habitat can be an affordable and environmentally conscious management option.

Lyme disease is an infectious zoonosis transmitted by ticks infected with Borrelia spirochetes. Condition affects multiple organ systems and typically has a protracted course. Although Lyme carditis is a comparatively rare symptom of Lyme borreliosis, it can cause major cardiac conditions, including death, if left untreated. Atrioventricular block of various degrees is the hallmark of cardiac involvement, although other manifestations of the disease are increasingly describe such as ventricular and supraventricular arrhythmias, pericarditis, acute coronary syndrome, mild heart failure, cardiac tamponade or individual cases of cardiomyopathy, degenerative valvular lesions and vasculitis. Cardiovascular conduction disorders have a good prognosis despite their abrupt onset and completely resolve after a few days of antibiotic therapy. Therefore, a wait-and-see attitude should be maintained. However, a temporary or permanent pacemaker may be required if the patient's clinical condition necessitates prompt intervention. Nevertheless, current recommendations suggest avoiding temporary stimulation wherever possible and limiting its use to the shortest treatment time possible.

Abstract Around the world, the main problems of livestock are caused by ectoparasites, however, commercial acaracide are toxic to the environment and detrimental to One Health. Therefore, research has increasingly focused on development of natural products as alternatives for tick control. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the larvicidal effect on Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus, through use of essential oils (EOs) extracted from the leaves, flower buds and stems of Tetradenia riparia. The chemical composition of these EOs was determined through gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS). They were tested on larvae at concentrations of 100.000 to 40 µg/mL, using the larval packet test and under semi-natural conditions. The main class of compounds in the chemical composition was sesquiterpenes (both oxygenates and hydrocarbons), whereas the predominant compounds in the leaves, flower buds and stems were 14-hydroxy-9-epi-caryophyllene, T-cadinol and 6-7-dehydroroyleanone, respectively. The leaves proved to be the most effective, with highest larvicidal activity (LC99.9 = 83.53 µg/mL). When tested under semi-natural conditions, the oils obtained efficiency above 98% in all compound tests. The results indicated that these EOs were effective against R. (B.) microplus larvae in vitro and ex-situ, proving that this plant has bioactive molecules with significant larvicidal activity.

Life in the era of biotechnology opens up opportunities but also poses challenges related to our values ​​and questions regarding the way we want to see coexistence on our planet, which is inhabited by many species. The parasite is our case study and an interesting concept that we inherit from biology but which is also addressed in humanism and philosophy. As humans, we commonly understand the concept of a parasite as a negative one that suggests someone or something which benefits at our expense. However, French philosopher Michel Serres had a different view of the parasite. According to him, the parasite is based on relationships between different entities, and there is often noise in these relationships. Serres refers to biologist Henri Atlan, who has argued that said noise forces the system to reorganize itself in a way that incorporates the noise into the complex system. The idea of ​​noise as an integrated part of the system is quite far from today’s thought processes with the development of bio/technology that typically aims to be noiseless and error-free and have aesthetically attractive results. Therefore, although parasites are often associated with terms such as inhospitable, undesirable, and disgusting and are seen to be located outside of art and technology, in this paper, we argue that the concept of something parasitical is tightly intertwined with our contemporary biotechnical lives. The article relates Serres’ parasitic thinking to an artistic mediation of the biological parasite: the tick.

Context: Ivermectin (IVM) and fluazuron are present as novel combinations to control ticks. Differences in formulations account for changes to the plasma kinetics and could change exposure of target parasites to active drugs. Aims: To evaluate bioequivalence for ivermectin administered by two novel formulations combined with fluazuron. Methods: Twelve male Holstein calves were randomized into two groups (n=6), receiving a single subcutaneous dose of a novel formulation (A or B) of ivermectin combined with fluazuron (ivermectin 1% 0.2 mg/kg + fluazuron 12.5% 2.5 mg/kg). Blood samples were taken until 34 days after dosing. Non-compartmental analysis was applied for bioequivalence assessment. Compartmental analysis was carried out and model acceptance was validated using the visual predictive check graphics. Results: Noncompartmental analysis shows that both formulations behaved similarly with Cmax ratio of 0.982 (CI90: 0.861 – 1.12, ANOVA test, p=0.814) and AUC0-t ratio of 1.01 (CI90: 0.97 – 1.05, ANOVA, p=0.586) but at different Tmax (1.4 ± 0.5 and 2.9 ± 1.2 days (Mann-Whitney U test, p=0.027) for A and B, respectively). The pharmacokinetic model has two compartments, linear elimination with first order absorption and formulation as covariable for the absorption rate. Conclusions: We conclude that the two novel formulations combined of IVM 1% with fluazuron 12.5%, are bioequivalent for administration of IVM in cattle. This shows that carrying out bioequivalence studies are of great importance for understanding the potential interchangeability between formulations available in the pharmaceutical market.

Abstract Feline Bartonella can be transmitted to humans through cat scratches or bites, and between cats, by the flea Ctenocephalides felis. The study was carried out in order to investigate the occurrence of Bartonella DNA in cats living in shelters and their ectoparasites and the relationship between the infection status of cats and ectoparasites they host. Bartonella DNA was detected in 47.8% of the cat blood samples, 18.3% of C. felis fleas, 13.3% of flea egg pools and 12.5% of lice pools. B. henselae and B. clarridgeiae DNA were detected in cat fleas, while B. henselae, B. clarridgeiae and B. koehlerae were found in blood samples from bacteremic cats. Cats infested by positive ectoparasites showed approximately twice the odds of being infected. Our results indicate that shelter cats have high prevalence of Bartonella species that are known to be human pathogens. This highlights the importance of controlling infestations by ectoparasites to avoid cat and human infection.

The current description of biological transmission of Anaplasma marginale by Rhipicephalus microplus ticks, includes of the biological intrastadial and transstadial transmission. Both transovarian transmission of Anaplasma from engorged ticks to their progeny and, transmission from infected unfed larvae to the mammalian host is controversial. In order to demonstrate vertical transmission of A. marginale by R. microplus ticks under experimental conditions, feed-acquisition infected engorged females were incubated at 18 °C or 28 °C for oviposition. Larvae hatched from these ticks were used to infest two steers for each incubation temperature. None of the four steers infested with either lot of larvae developed clinical disease, yet subclinical infection was observed in the steers infested with larvae from engorged ticks incubated at 28 °C for hatching. gDNA from, larvae used for the infection of the carrier tick donor, gDNA from larvae oviposited at 28 ºC, gDNA from blood of A. marginale-positive steers, were positive for amplification of msp5 and msp1α the variable region by PCR. All other DNA samples from the original stabilate, blood from the donor steer, larvae from ticks incubated at 28 °C and blood from steers infested with these same larvae were positive to both, msp5 and msp1α PCR. msp1α sequences of all PCR products were the same and are consistent with previously reported Tlapacoyan-2 sequence. The present evidence indicates that R. microplus is capable of passing A. marginale to its progeny and that these infected larvae can transmit the infection to susceptible hosts.

The following article presents the epidemiological situation in Poland over the 2007-2017 period. The article is based on the analysis of “Contagious diseases and toxoinfections in Poland” and “Vaccination in Poland” surveys and pamphlets from the State Department of Hygiene. Supplementary information concern infection by the virus, clinical manifestation, detection, diagnostic procedure and vaccination against TBE virus. The results were developed using a descriptive method. Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a serious disease of the central nervous system that can occur in many clinical forms. In Poland, TBE is the main cause of brain inflammation of viral etiology. The diseases are characterized by seasonality and occur mainly in the spring and summer. The highest number of cases occurred in 2010, and the lowest in 2015. In 2015/2016, the number of cases with TBE increased almost twice. It was at the same level in 2017. Every year the highest number of TBE cases is recorded in the region Podlasie and it accounts for about 80% of cases of TBE in Poland. There is no causative treatment of TBE, the only form of prevention of the disease are protective vaccinations, which in Poland are recommended for specific groups of people. Analysis of TBE vaccination data has shown a gradual increase in the interest in TBE protective vaccinations from 2014 to 2017. Despite the growing number of people vaccinated against TBE in Poland, the number of cases remains high. The society in TBE prophylaxis should be educated.

These work was carried out in the Plant Protection Laboratory of the Agronomy Faculty in the Agrarian University of La Habana, to determinate the in vitro effectivity of the isolate Ma-005 of Metarhizium anisopliae s.l (Metsch.) Sorokin on eggs and neolarvae of Rhipicephalus microplus Canestrini. Eggs, with five to seven days old, and neolarvae with seven to 10 days old, were inoculated by immersion during one minute in suspensions with different conidial concentration of the isolate. It was evaluated the hatching of larvae from eggs after 30 days and neolarval mortality after seven and 14 days. It was observed a high effect of the conidia concentration on hatching of larvae from eggs, less than 10 % at the highest of the concentrations evaluated, and the mortality of the tick neolarvae, more than 80 % at the concentration of 108 conidia mL-1.

Abstract Anaplasma marginale and piroplasm species are widespread among Brazilian cattle herds. Both of these tick-borne pathogens hamper livestock production and cause a significant economic impact. Although buffaloes have demonstrated a high level of adaptability, data on tick-borne pathogens are scarcely reported in Brazil. Thus, the aim of this study was to screen water buffaloes from the state of Maranhão for piroplasm and A. marginale occurrence using PCR assays. All samples were negative for A. marginale. One of the 287 (0.35%) water buffaloes tested was positive for Theileria sp. Sequencing of the 18S rDNA fragment (356 bp) showed that the Theileria sp. identified was closely related to the T. buffeli /orientalis group. Future studies on the clinical signs of infection and the main vector in this country are needed.

Abstract Southern cattle tick resistance to pour-on and injectable acaricides has yet to be evaluated on a broader scope, and the paucity of information on the subject may hinder efforts to control this parasite. The objective of this study was to evaluate the resistance profile of ten populations of Rhipicephalus microplus to the acaricides fluazuron, fipronil and ivermectin in cattle herds in Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. The larval immersion test (LIT) was used to evaluate susceptibility to ivermectin and fipronil and the adult immersion test (AIT) was performed to evaluate fluazuron. Samples were randomly obtained in ten farms, and in general, we found resistance in five samples to fluazuron and in four samples to ivermectin and fipronil. Six samples showed incipient resistance to ivermectin and fipronil. Five of the ten evaluated samples showed resistance and/or incipient resistance to all the active ingredients, and the other five to two active ingredients. Among the samples classified as resistant, the average resistance ratio for ivermectin was 2.75 and 3.26 for fipronil. These results demonstrate the advanced status of resistance to the most modern chemical groups for the control of R. microplus in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul.

Abstract Amblyomma nodosum is a Neotropical tick species distributed from Mexico to Argentina, with adult individuals infesting different mammal species, including anteaters (Pilosa: Myrmecophagidae). Few reports in Colombia have recorded this species in departments such as Meta, Tolima and Valle del Cauca. In this paper we describe this species using taxonomic, morphometric and molecular methods after collecting individuals parasitizing collared anteaters (Tamandua tetradactyla) in the departments of Cundinamarca and Tolima. Adult specimens were identified based on current taxonomic keys and different morphometric variables were documented in nonengorged individuals. Also, DNA was extracted for PCR amplification and sequencing of 16S rDNA, COI and ITS2 genes. Phylogenetic trees were built. One hundred and thirty-four adult ticks were collected and identified as Amblyomma nodosum, based on morphological, morphometric, molecular and phylogenetic analyses. This is the first study to report the presence of this tick species in the department of Cundinamarca, using multiple identification approaches, thus expanding its geographical records in Colombia.

Abstract The aim of the present study was to detect Cercopithifilaria bainae and other tick-borne pathogens and to perform molecular characterization of the tick Rhipicephalus sanguineus s.l. collected from dogs. Ticks (n = 432, including 8 larvae, 59 nymphs, and 365 adults) were sampled from domiciled dogs (n = 73) living in Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul (Midwest Brazil). All ticks were morphologically identified as R. sanguineus. Genomic DNA was extracted in pools (three to five ticks per animal) and was used for definition of R. sanguineus haplotypes (based on 16S rRNA analysis) and pathogen identification (Cercopithifilaria sp., Ehrlichia canis, Anaplasma platys, Hepatozoon canis, Babesia vogeli and Rickettsia spp.). Rhipicephal us sanguineus specimens were identified as haplotypes A and B. DNA of Cercopithifilaria bainae (43.83%; 32/73), Ehrlichia canis (24.65%; 18/73), Anaplasma platys (19.17%; 14/73), and Hepatozoon canis (5.47%; 4/73) was detected. The identity of pathogens was confirmed by DNA sequence analysis. The present study confirms the presence of haplotypes A and B of R. sanguineus in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul and its importance as a vector of several pathogens of veterinary concern. Finally, this is the first report to identify C. bainae in ticks in the Midwestern region of Brazil.

Abstract The cattle tick Rhipicephalus microplus causes significant economic losses in agribusiness. Control of this tick is achieved mainly through the application of chemical acaricides, often resulting in contamination of animal food products and of the environment. Another major concern associated with acaricide use is the increasing reports of resistance of this tick vector against the active ingredients of many commercial products. An alternative control method is vaccination. However, the commercially available vaccine based on a protein homologous to Bm86 exhibits variations in efficacy relative to the different geographical locations. This study aimed to identify antigenic determinants of the sequences of proteins homologous to Bm86. Phylogenetic analyses were performed to determine the extent of divergence between different populations of R. microplus to identify the sequence that could be used as a universal vaccine against the multiple geographically distinct populations of R. microplus and related tick species. Considering the extensive sequence and functional polymorphism observed among strains of R. microplus from different geographical regions, we can conclude that it may be possible to achieve effective vaccination against these cattle ticks using a single universal Bm86-based antigen.

The present project was developed in the Plant Protection Laboratory of the Agronomy Faculty of the Agrarian University of La Habana, Cuba, to determinate the in vitro effectivity of some isolates of Beauveria bassiana sensu lato (Vals.) Vuill. on eggs and neolarvae of Rhipicephalus microplus Canestrini. The three isolates evaluated were effective, with more than 85 % mortality over neolarvae of the ectoparasite, 12 days after application. In the case of the BB isolate a strong effect of the conidia concentration in the suspension over the eclosion of eggs was evident, wich was null in the highest of the concentrations used, and the mortality of tick neolarvae, that was superior to 90 % with concentrations over 107 conidia mL-1.

Introduction: Rocky Mountain spotted fever is a highly lethal infectious disease, particularly if specific treatment with doxycycline is given belatedly. Objective: To describe the clinical profile of fatal Rocky Mountain spotted fever cases in hospitalized patients in the state of Sonora, México. Materials and methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study on a series of 47 deaths caused by Rickettsia rickettsii from 2013 to 2016. The diagnosis of Rocky Mountain spotted fever was confirmed in a single blood sample by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or by a four-fold increase in immunoglobulin G measured in paired samples analyzed by indirect immunofluorescence. Clinical and laboratory characteristics were compared stratifying subjects into two groups: pediatric and adult. Results: There were no differences in clinical characteristics between groups; petechial rash was the most frequent sign (96%), followed by headache (70%) and myalgia (67%). Although that doxycycline was administered before the fifth day from the onset of symptoms, death occurred in 55% of patients. In clinical laboratory, thrombocytopenia, and biomarkers of liver acute failure and acute kidney failure were the most frequent. Conclusion: Rocky Mountain spotted fever remains as one of the most lethal infectious diseases, which may be related not only to the lack of diagnostic suspicion and delayed administration of doxycycline, but to genotypic characteristics of Rickettsia rickettsii that may play a role in the variability of the fatality rate that has been reported in other geographical regions where the disease is endemic.

Parasitism by mites has always been of concern with regard to losses in animal production and to the transmission of etiologic agents of important diseases as well, and about 95% of the developing forms of ticks in the non-parasitic phase are in the environment. In view of the importance of controlling larval stages of ticks in the environment, this study evaluated the efficacy of acaricides in vitro against larvae of Rhipicephalus (B.) microplus and R. sanguineus. Accordingly, we tested: 15% cypermethrin (T1); 25% deltamethrin (T2); combination of cypermethrin 5% + 45% dichlorvos + 25% piperonyl butoxide (T3); combination of 15% cypermethrin + 25% chlorpyrifos + 1% citronella (T4); and 12.5% amitraz (T5). In each treatment, there were nine replicates with 20 larvae each. The larvae were observed for motility at: 1, 5, 10, 20 and 30 minutes post-treatment (MPT); 1, 2, 6, 12 and 24 hours post-treatment (HPT); and 5 days post-treatment. Tests in R. (B.) microplus and R. sanguineus larvae with 25% deltamethrin served as a positive control and demonstrated 100% loss of motility at 2 HPT for both tick species. R. (B.) microplus larvae were most sensitive to treatments containing 15% cypermethrin or 5% cypermethrin combined with dichlorvos and piperonyl butoxide. Larvae of R. sanguineus were most sensitive to treatment with 12.5% amitraz. However, despite the differences in acaricidal effect during the observation time, 100% efficacy was obtained for all treatments against larvae of R. sanguineus and R. (B.) microplus at 12 HPT, demonstrating that appropriate doses of commercial acaricides can be effective in environmental control strategies against tick larvae.

Introducción. En las últimas décadas, el análisis de los genes mitocondriales se ha utilizado en los estudios poblacionales y filogenéticos de garrapatas, lo cual ha permitido numerosos avances en la sistemática de estos ácaros. El gen mitocondrial de la subunidad 16S del ARN ribosómico (16S) es uno de los más usados, mientras que el gen mitocondrial de la citocromo oxidasa 1 (COX1) se ha empleado recientemente y se propone como un marcador genético alternativo frente al 16S. Objetivo. Evaluar la utilidad de los genes 16S y COX1 en los estudios genéticos de las garrapatas mediante el análisis de secuencias en tres especies de la región Caribe de Colombia. Resultados. El análisis de secuencias mostró que los dos genes permitieron identificar las tres especies con mucha confiabilidad y con niveles de divergencia genética interespecífica relativamente similares (19 a 22 %), aunque solo el gen COX1 permitió detectar la variabilidad genética intraespecífica (hasta de ~0,8 %). El análisis de saturación de sustituciones indicó que el gen 16S no se saturó con transiciones, mientras que el COX1 mostró saturación a partir de distancias de ~17 %. Conclusión. Los resultados indicaron que el gen 16S parece tener mejores características para los análisis filogenéticos interespecíficos dada su alta divergencia genética y baja saturación de transiciones, mientras que el gen COX1 parece ser más útil para estudios de variabilidad genética intraespecífica. Sin embargo, dado que el estudio se hizo a escala local, se requieren más investigaciones en diferentes escalas biogeográficas para establecer su utilidad en circunstancias más amplias y complejas.

Blood samples were collected from 99 domestic dogs from the urban and rural areas of the Lábrea municipality, state of Amazonas, Brazil. Canine serum samples were tested by immunofluorescence assay against Rickettsia spp., which revealed that only 3.0% (1/33) and 7.6% (5/66) of the dogs from urban and rural areas, respectively, reacted positively to at least one Rickettsia species. DNA was extracted from canine blood and tested by a battery of PCR assays targeting protozoa of the genera Babesia and Hepatozoon, and bacteria of the genera Rickettsia and Ehrlichia and family Anaplasmataceae. All samples were negative in the PCR assays targeting the genera Babesia, Hepatozoon, Ehrlichia and Rickettsia. For Anaplasmataceae, 3% (1/33) and 39.4% (26/66) of the urban and rural dogs, respectively, yielded amplicons that generated DNA sequences 100% identical to the corresponding sequence of Wolbachia endosymbiont of Dirofilaria immitis. Because of these results, all canine DNA samples were further tested in a PCR assay targeting filarial nematodes, which was positive for 18.2% (6/33) and 57.6% (38/66) urban and rural dogs, respectively. Filarial-PCR products generated DNA sequences 100% identical to D. immitis. While tick-borne infections were rare in Lábrea, D. immitis infection rates were among the highest reported in South America.

Objective. To describe the seasonal variation and perform a comparative analysis on habitat preference of Haemaphysalis juxtakochi in Panama. Materials and methods. Ticks were collected from the vegetation, using a white cloth, between January 2009 and March 2010, in four site located in Summit Municipal Park (SMP), two in wooded area (WA) and two in grasslands (GR).The ticks were determined as larvae, nymphs and adults of H. juxtakochi. The number of ticks collected in each area was employed to describe the seasonal distribution of both immature and adult stages, and the non-parametric Mann-Whitney U test. Results. A total of 2.338 ticks in WA and 560 ticks in GR were collected. The major peak of adults from May to July, nymphs peaked from January to April and the peak of larvae abundance from December and January. There was a significant difference in the number of ticks collected in the two areas for each tick stage (larvae, mean number (MN) in WA 120.14, MN in GR 57.07, P: 0.02; nymphs, MN in WA 46.42, MN in GR 16.38, P: 0.018; adults, MN in WA 6.64, MN in GR 1.78, P: 0.02). Conclusions. The results suggest that H. juxtakochi maintains a one-year cycle in the study areas. This cycle would be characterized by the immature population peaks in the dry season; while adults are distributed throughout year, with a peak in the transition from the rainy and dry. Moreover, H. juxtakochi was more abundant in forests than in grasslands, which could lead to a better adaptation to forested conditions.

The objective of this study was to evaluate factors associated with infestation by Amblyomma cajennense on horses in two microregions of the state of Rio de Janeiro. Horses on 62 farms in the municipalities of the Itaguaí and Serrana microregions were evaluated between January and May 2009. The animals were examined to determine the presence of ticks and infestation level. The animals' rearing and management were assessed on each farm property using an epidemiological questionnaire. Out of the 635 horses evaluated, 41.6% were infested with A. cajennense. It was observed that farms in low-altitude regions (OR=3.69; CI: 2.3-5.8), with unsatisfactory zootechnical and sanitary management (OR=5.92; CI: 3.8-9.2) and an extensive rearing system (OR=4.25; CI: 2.1-8.5) were factors associated with tick infestation (p < 0.05) and also with cases of high infestation on horses. Use of chemical acaricides on horses was also associated with infestation (p < 0.05); the owners described different therapeutic approaches with different treatment intervals. From the present study, low altitudes, unsatisfactory management, extensive rearing and inappropriate use of acaricide products were factors associated with occurrences of A. cajennense at different infestation levels on horses in these municipalities.

Herein, we report tick species found on wild and domestic animals and in the environment during a one-year sampling period at the Brazilian Farming Research Company beef cattle unit (Embrapa Beef Cattle), which is located within the urban area of Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. From 55 wild hosts including six different species (Nasua nasua, Cebus spp., Cerdocyon thous, Myrmecophaga tridactyla, Tamandua tetradactyla and Dasyprocta aguti), 323 ticks were collected. Amblyomma ovale ticks were found solely on coatis, and Amblyomma nodosum was identified solely on anteaters. No ticks were found on capuchin monkeys. However, Amblyomma cajennense was found on all parasitized host species with the exception of capuchin monkeys. Giant anteaters displayed the highest infestation abundance, with a mean of 53 ticks∕animal. Environmental sampling yielded 166 adult A. cajennense ticks. The tick species found on domestic animals (Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus, R. sanguineus, Dermacentor nitens and A. cajennense) were those typically found on these hosts in Brazil. The most prevalent tick species, A. cajennense, was found on both wild and domestic animals and was also prevalent in the environment. Thus, this tick species is the primary vector that allows pathogens to bridge wild and domestic animals in the Cerrado.Neste trabalho são descritas as espécies de carrapatos de animais selvagens e domésticos e do ambiente coletados por um ano na EMBRAPA Gado de Corte localizado na área urbana de Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brasil. Dos 55 hospedeiros selvagens de seis espécies diferentes (Nasua nasua, Cebus spp., Cerdocyon thous, Myrmecophaga tridactyla, Tamandua tetradactyla e Dasyprocta aguti) foram coletados 323 carrapatos. Amblyomma ovale foi encontrado apenas em quatis e Amblyomma nodosum apenas sobre tamanduás. Nenhum carrapato foi encontrado sobre macacos-prego. Por outro lado, Amblyomma cajennense foi encontrado em todos os hospedeiros com exceção dos macacos-pregos. A maior abundancia de infestação foi aquela em tamanduás-bandeira com média de 53 carrapatos∕animal. No ambiente foram capturados 166 carrapatos, todos da espécie A. cajennense. As espécies de carrapatos em animais domésticos (Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus, Rhipicephalus sanguineus, Dermacentor nitens e A. cajennense) foram aquelas características nestes hospedeiros no Brasil. De forma geral a espécie de carrapato A. cajennense foi a mais prevalente sendo encontrada em animais domésticos e selvagens bem como no ambiente. Portanto, esta é a principal espécie de vetor a estabelecer uma ponte para bioagentes patogênicos entre animais domésticos e selvagens.

The cattle tick Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus is responsible for major losses in the Brazilian livestock, mainly due to reduction in cattle productive performance. Resistance development to major classes of acaricide widely used nowadays has been extensively reported, as well as the occurrence of residues from these compounds in animal products and the environment. This study aimed to evaluate the efficiency of acaricides on R. (B.) microplus collected from rural properties in the North-Central region of Bahia State. Ticks were collected in several cattle farms in the cited region, and an in vitro acaricide efficiency assay was performed based on the immersion of ticks in acaricide solutions made according to manufacturers' recommendations. The results obtained in the experiments indicated varying degrees of efficiency of the several bases studied, with the products benzofenilurea, macrocyclic lactone and fipronil showing the highest levels of efficiency, 100%, 100% and 97.34%, respectively. It was possible to conclude that, for the region studied, there are different degrees of commercial acaricides efficiency, and many present less than 95% effectiveness, value determined as acceptable by the Brazilian legislation.O carrapato Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus é responsável por grandes perdas na pecuária brasileira, principalmente devido à redução no desempenho produtivo dos animais. A resistência do parasita a diferentes classes de acaricidas tem sido amplamente relatada, bem como os problemas de ocorrência de resíduos desses compostos em produtos de origem animal e no ambiente. Esse estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a eficiência de diversos acaricidas sobre populações de R. (B.) microplus provenientes de propriedades rurais da Região Centro-Norte do Estado da Bahia, Brasil. Teleóginas ingurgitadas foram colhidas em diferentes propriedades da região e submetidas a ensaio in vitro de eficiência de acaricidas, baseado na imersão dos carrapatos em soluções de acaricidas feitas seguindo as recomendações dos fabricantes. Os resultados obtidos indicam níveis variados de eficiência das bases estudadas, com os acaricidas benzofenilureia, lactona macrocíclica e fipronil apresentando os índices mais altos de eficiência, 100%, 100% e 97.34%, respectivamente. Pode-se concluir que, para a região estudada, os acaricidas apresentam níveis diversos de eficiência, e muitos deles possuem eficácia de menos de 95%, como recomendado pela legislação brasileira.

The control of tick species that affect animal production is vital for the economic welfare of the cattle industry. This study focused on testing the acaricidal activity of the essential oil from the leaves and stems of Tagetes minuta against several Brazilian tick species, including Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus, Rhipicephalus sanguineus, Amblyomma cajennense and Argas miniatus. The chemical composition of the essential oil was determined by chromatography and spectroscopy analyses, which revealed the presence of monoterpenes. The adult immersion test (AIT) and the larval packet test (LPT) were used to evaluate the efficacy of T. minuta essential oil in tick management at concentrations of 2.5, 5, 10, 20 and 40%. The results demonstrated that the T. minuta essential oil had over 95% efficacy against four species of ticks at a concentration of 20%. These results suggest that the essential oil of T. minuta could be used as an environmentally friendly acaricide.O controle de carrapatos que causa impacto na produção de bovinos possui importância econômica para a cadeia produtiva. Neste trabalho objetivou-se testar a atividade acaricida do óleo essencial das folhas e caules de Tagetes minuta contra várias espécies de carrapatos brasileiros, incluindo Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus, Rhipicephalus sanguineus, Amblyomma cajennense e Argas miniatus. A composição química do óleo foi determinada por GC-MS e análises de espectroscopia de RMN, que revelaram a presença de monoterpenos. Na avaliação destas substâncias no controle do carrapato foram empregados os testes de imersão de adulto (TIA) e o de pacote de larvas (TPL) para o extrato de óleo de T. minuta nas concentrações de 2,5%; 5%; 10%; 20% e 40%. Os resultados do TPL e TIA demonstraram que o óleo essencial na concentração de 20% de T. minuta apresenta eficácia superior a 95% nas quatro espécies de carrapato. Estes resultados sugerem que o óleo essencial de T. minuta pode ser usado como um acaricida eficaz e com baixo impacto ambiental.

Amblyomma rotundatum Koch is a parthenogenetic tick usually associated with reptiles and amphibians. However, relatively few studies on occurrences of ticks in wild reptile populations in Brazil have been produced. The aim of this study was to analyze the presence of ticks associated with reptile species in the Grussaí restinga, in the municipality of São João da Barra, state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Between December 2010 and January 2011, 131 individuals belonging to nine species of reptiles of the order Squamata were sampled: the lizards Tropidurus torquatus (n = 51), Hemidactylus mabouia (n = 25), Mabuya agilis (n = 30), Mabuya macrorhyncha (n = 6), Cnemidophorus littoralis (n = 5) and Ameiva ameiva (n = 10); and the snakes Philodryas olfersii (n = 2), Oxyrhopus rhombifer (n = 1) and Micrurus corallinus (n = 1). The only tick species found to be associated with any of the reptiles sampled was A. rotundatum. One adult female was detected on one individual of the lizard A. ameiva, one nymph on one individual of the lizard T. torquatus and four nymphs on one individual of the snake P. olfersii. This study is the first record of parasitism of A. rotundatum involving the reptiles T. torquatus and P. olfersii as hosts. Our results suggest that in the Grussaí restinga habitat, A. rotundatum may use different species of reptiles to complete its life cycle.Amblyomma rotundatum Koch é um carrapato partenogenético geralmente associado a répteis e anfíbios. Entretanto existem relativamente poucos estudos sobre a ocorrência de carrapatos em populações silvestres de répteis no Brasil. O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar a presença de carrapatos associados às espécies de répteis em uma comunidade na restinga de Grussaí, município de São João da Barra, Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil. Foram amostradas, entre os meses de dezembro de 2010 e janeiro de 2011, 131 indivíduos pertencentes a nove espécies de répteis da ordem Squamata: lagartos Tropidurus torquatus (n = 51); Hemidactylus mabouia (n = 25), Mabuya agilis (n = 30), Mabuya macrorhyncha (n = 6), Cnemidophorus littoralis (n = 5) e Ameiva ameiva (n = 10), e serpentes Philodryas olfersii (n = 2), Oxyrhopus rhombifer (n = 1) e Micrurus corallinus (n = 1). A única espécie de carrapato encontrada associada a espécimes de répteis foi A. rotundatum, tendo sido encontrada uma fêmea adulta em um indivíduo do lagarto A. ameiva, uma ninfa em um T. torquatus e quatro ninfas em uma serpente P. olfersii. O presente estudo constitui o primeiro registro do parasitismo de A. rotundatum nos répteis T. torquatus e P. olfersii como hospedeiros. Nossos resultados sugerem que no habitat da restinga de Grussaí, A. rotundatum pode utilizar diferentes espécies de répteis para a realização do seu ciclo de vida.

The present work one carries out in the Municipality of Ixiamas County Abel Iturralde of the department of Peace-Bolivia, between May and August of 2010. The objective was to determine the presence of Anaplama sp and Babesia sp, through sanguine smear, they took 160 samples of blood, 40 bovine of the four areas they have been evaluated. The results indicate the presence of Anaplasma sp 6,90%, 6,20% in females and 9,70% in males, this represents 2,50% for the area TO, 5,00% area B, 17,50% area C and 2,50% area D. According to the category 12,50% in calves, 0,00% in torillos, 4,80% in bulls, 6,20% in cows and 14,30% in heifers. The presence of Babesia sp 3,13%, with relationship to the sex 3,10% in females and 3,22% in males, being observed 2,50% in the area TO, 5,00% in the area B, 5,00% in the area C and 0,00% in the area D, according to the category 0,00% in calves, torillos 4,80% bulls, 2,73% vacates and 7,14% in heifers.

The cattle tick Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus is responsible for great economic losses. It is mainly controlled chemically, with limitations regarding development of resistance to the chemicals. Vaccines may help control this parasite, thereby reducing tick pesticide use. In this light, we performed subcloning of the gene of the protein Bm86-GC, the homologue protein that currently forms the basis of vaccines (GavacTM and TickGardPLUS) that have been developed against cattle ticks. The subcloning was done in the pPIC9 expression vector, for transformation in the yeast Pichia pastoris. This protein was characterized by expression of the recombinant Mut+ strain, which expressed greater quantities of protein. The expressed protein (rBm86-CG) was recognized in the Western-blot assay using anti-Gavac, anti-TickGard, anti-larval extract and anti-rBm86-CG polyclonal sera. The serum produced in cattle vaccinated with the antigen CG rBm86 presented high antibody titers and recognized the native protein. The rBm86-GC has potential relevance as an immunogen for vaccine formulation against cattle ticks.O carrapato-do-boi Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus é responsável por grandes perdas econômicas. Seu controle é principalmente químico e apresenta limitações quanto ao desenvolvimento de resistência aos princípios ativos. As vacinas podem auxiliar no controle deste parasita diminuindo as aplicações de carrapaticidas. Considerando isso, foi realizada a subclonagem do gene da proteína Bm86-CG, proteína homologa a que atualmente é a base das vacinas desenvolvidas (GavacTM e TickGardPLUS) contra o carrapato-do-boi, no vetor de expressão pPIC9, para ser transformado em levedura, Pichia pastoris. Esta proteína foi caracterizada pela expressão da cepa recombinante Mut+ que expressou maior quantidade de proteína. A proteína expressa, rBm86-CG, foi reconhecida no ensaio de Western-blot pelos soros policlonais anti-Gavac, anti-TickGard, anti-Extrato de larva e anti-rBm86-CG. O soro produzido em bovinos vacinados com o antígeno rBm86-CG apresentou altos títulos de anticorpo e reconheceu a proteína nativa. A rBm86-CG possui potencial relevância como imunógeno para formulação vacinal contra o carrapato de bovinos.

Introducción. Los capibaras o chigüiros (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) son huéspedes amplificadores de Rickettsia sp. Usualmente se encuentran parasitados por la garrapata Amblyomma cajennense, principal vector de rickettsiosis en Suramérica. Los capibaras pueden ser usados como potenciales centinelas de la circulación de rickettsias. Objetivo. Detectar anticuerpos contra Rickettsia sp. del grupo de las fiebres manchadas en capibaras de una zona rural del municipio de Montería, departamento de Córdoba. Material y métodos. Se analizaron 36 sueros de capibaras de una zona rural de Montería (vereda San Jerónimo) en Córdoba. Para la detección de anticuerpos IgG se practicó inmunofluorescencia indirecta, que utilizó antígenos de la cepa Taiaçu de Rickettsia rickettsii de Brasil. Los sueros de los capibaras fueron diluidos 1:64. Se capturaron las garrapatas que se encontraban parasitando los capibaras y se clasificaron hasta su especie. Resultados. La seroprevalencia contra Rickettsia sp. del grupo de la fiebres manchadas encontrada fue de 22 % (8 capibaras); se encontraron cuatro sueros con título de 1:64, tres sueros con título 1:128 y un suero presentó titulación de 1:512. Todas las garrapatas (n=933) fueron identificadas taxonómicamente como A. cajennense. Conclusión. En Colombia existen zonas endémicas de rickettsiosis y la aparición de brotes anuales lo confirma (Necoclí, 2006; Los Córdobas, 2007, y Altos de Mulatos, 2008). El presente estudio reporta por primera vez la presencia de infección natural por rickettsia del grupo de las fiebres manchadas en capibaras de Colombia. Los hallazgos sugieren que los capibaras pueden ser usados como potenciales centinelas de la circulación de rickettsias y marcadores de las áreas de riesgo para la transmisión de rickettsiosis.

Brazilian Spotted Fever (BSF) is a lethal rickettsiosis in humans caused by the bacteria Rickettsia rickettsii, and is endemic in some areas of Brazil. Horses and dogs are part of the disease's life cycle and they may also serve as sentinel animals in epidemiological studies. The first human BSF case in the State of Paraná was reported in 2005. The present study was conducted in the municipality of Almirante Tamandaré, where no previous case of BSF was reported. Serum samples were collected from 71 horses and 20 dogs from nine properties in the area. Ticks were also collected from these animals. All farmers completed a questionnaire about their knowledge of BSF and animal health management. Serum samples were analyzed by indirect immunofluorescent-antibody assay (IFA) using R. rickettsii and R. parkeri as antigens. Ticks were analyzed by PCR for Rickettsia sp., and all of them were PCR-negative. Six horses (8.45%) and 4 dogs (20%) were identified as seropositive. Farmers were not aware of the correlation between the presence of ticks and risk of BSF. Although a non-endemic area, Almirante Tamandaré is a vulnerable environment for BSF and effective tick control measures are required.A Febre Maculosa Brasileira (FMB) é uma riquetsiose letal para humanos, causada pela bactéria Rickettsia rickettsii, e é endêmica em algumas regiões brasileiras. Equinos e cães podem participar do ciclo da doença e podem também servir como sentinelas em estudos epidemiológicos. O primeiro caso humano relatado no Estado do Paraná ocorreu em 2005. O presente estudo foi realizado no município de Almirante Tamandaré, região onde não há relatos de casos de FMB. Foram coletadas amostras de sangue de 71 cavalos e 20 cães em nove propriedades rurais na região. Carrapatos também foram colhidos dos animais. Todos os proprietários responderam a um questionário sobre o manejo sanitário dos animais e o conhecimento a respeito da FMB. As amostras de soro foram processadas pela técnica de Reação de Imunofluorescência Indireta (RIFI), utilizando-se os antígenos de R. rickettsii e R. parkeri. Os carrapatos foram analisados por PCR para Rickettsia sp. e todos foram negativos. Seis cavalos (8,45%) e 4 cães (20%) foram identificados como soropositivos. Todos os proprietários desconheciam a relação de carrapatos com a FMB. Embora considerada uma área não endêmica, Almirante Tamandaré é um ambiente vulnerável à FMB e um controle eficiente de carrapatos deve ser implementado.

The Application of Ixodicidas has been considered for a long time the alternative for control of the cattle tick Boophilus microplus, however, its use is currently limited in reducing tick infestations, due to the appearance of resistant field tick populations. Ixodicide resistance is a growing problem that needs to be attended, because, it is currently affecting the competitiveness of the Mexican Cattle industry in general and in particular the income of cattle producers. The solution to this problem needs to increase the budget dedicated to basic research in order to elucidate the molecular mechanisms of ixodicide resistance leading to the discovery of new molecular targets for ixodicide resistance detection and recombinant vaccine development. The recent use of new genomic tools, as well as reverse genetics approaches, will provide an extraordinary contribution to the improvement of tick control strategies and ixodicide resistance mitigation programs. The aim of the present review is to make a compilation of different topics related with acaricide resistance in the cattle tick Boophilus microplus, starting with some biological and molecular considerations on its new classification, to the analysis of ixodicide resistance, its impact on the Mexican cattle industry and the perspective of the genomic research in order to solve the problems associated to tick control, new diagnostic tools and development of tick vaccines.

No presente trabalho caracterizou-se a população de ectoparasitos em cães de núcleo de expansão urbana de Juiz de Fora, MG. As coletas foram realizadas de julho a setembro de 2003, examinando-se 101 cães SRD (sem raça definida). Os ectoparasitos foram coletados através de inspeção visual e tátil dos animais e acondicionados em frascos com etanol 70°GL e identificados sob estereoscopia. Espécimes foram clarificados e montados para análise em microscopia fotônica. Dentre os sifonápteros, Ctenocephalides felis foi mais prevalente (64,35%) com intensidade média de 6,12 ± 5,37 sifonápteros/cão, seguido por Rhopalopsyllus lutzi (3,96%), híbrida C. felis X C. canis (1,98%), Tunga penetrans (1,98%). Aúnica espécie de fitiráptero encontrada foi Trichodectes canis (7,92%) com 1,3 ± 0,51 fitiráptero/cão. Dentre os ixodídeos, Rhipicephalus sanguineus foi a espécie mais prevalente (49,50%) com intensidade média de 6,44 ± 10,2 ixodídeos/ cão, seguido por Amblyomma cajennense (3,96%), Boophilus microplus (2,97%), A. ovale (1%) e A. aureolatum (1%). As ninfas de ixodídeos foram separadas em ninfas de Amblyomminae (58,41%) com 10,11 ± 10,09 ninfas/cão e ninfas Rhipicephalinae (24,75%) com 2,64 ± 3,25 ninfas/cão. Em 3,96 % dos cães foram encontradas larvas de ixodídeo.The present work studied the characterization of ectoparasites on dogs in the nucleus of expansão urbana of Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais, Brazil. The collections were conducted from July to September 2003, examining 101 dogs of no defined breed. The ectoparasites were collected through visual and tactile inspection of the animals' bodies, and were then placed in bottles with 70° GL ethanol and identified under a stereomicroscope. Specimens were clarified and mounted on slides for analysis under a photonic microscope. Among the siphonaptera, Ctenocephalides felis was the most prevalent (64.35%), with mean intensity of 6.12 ± 5.37 siphonaptera/dog, followed by Rhopalopsyllus lutzi (3.96%), a hybrid of C. felis X C. canis (1.98%), and Tunga penetrans (1.98%). The only species of phthiraptera found was Trichodectes canis (7.92%), with 1.3 ± 0.51 phthiraptera/dog. Among the ixodidae, Rhipicephalus sanguineus was the most prevalent species (49.50%), with a mean intensity of 6.44 ± 10.2 ixodidae/dog, followed by Amblyomma cajennense (3.96%), Boophilus microplus (2.97%), A. ovale (1%) and A. aureolatum (1%). The ixodid nymphs were separated into aAmblyomminae nymphs (58.41%), with 10.11 ± 10.09 nymphs/dog, and Rhipicephalinae nymphs ¹(24.75%), with 2.64 ± 3.25 nymphs/dog. Ixodid larvae were found on 3.96 % of the dogs.

Objetivou-se desenvolver uma técnica de avaliação de carrapaticidas por imersão de larvas de Riphicephalus (Boophilus) microplus. As larvas foram obtidas a partir de ovos de 30 teleóginas coletadas em bovinos de uma propriedade rural do município de Lages, SC, Brasil, os quais foram acondicionados em alíquotas de 10mg por seringa descartável de 5ml, previamente preparadas e mantidas em câmara climatizada até a eclosão. Larvas com sete a dez dias de idade foram submetidas à imersão por 30 segundos em oito diluições de produtos carrapaticidas comerciais à base de amitraz e de cipermetrina, cada uma com dez repetições, sendo mantido um grupo controle para cada repetição e produto, o qual foi imerso em água destilada. A leitura foi realizada 24 horas após o tratamento com a contagem de larvas vivas e mortas. A média de DL50 para cipermetrina foi de 2,99ppm e o erro padrão de 0,36 e para o amitraz foi de 17,22ppm e o erro padrão de 4,20, com intervalo de confiança (IC) 95%.The aim of this work was to develop a technique of acaricides evaluation by immersion of larvae. Larvae were obtained from 30 engorged females of Riphicephalus (Boophilus) microplus were collected in a ranch in Lages, Santa Catarina state, Brazil. Larvae were obtained from 10mg of eggs placed into 5ml disposable syringes, previously prepared and kept under controlled conditions of laboratory, and collected between the third and the twelfth day of oviposition. Seven to ten days old larvae were submitted to the acaricide laboratory test, in ten replications, by their immersion in eight dilutions of commercial acaricides (amitraz or cypermethrin), for 30 seconds; for each replication and commercial product, a control group was immersed in distilled water. Results were evaluated 24 hours after each treatment by counting the number of live and dead larvae. The mean LD50 values and standard error of the mean for cypermethrin and amitraz were 2.99 ± 0.36 and 17.22 ± 4.20 ppm, respectively, for a confidence interval of 95%. The proposed acaricide laboratory test procedures by larvae immersion offered promising results for the evaluation of acaricides.

The present study aimed to adjust the artificial feeding technique through capillaries and to verify its influence over the biology of Amblyomma cajennense females. Five groups of 20 female ticks were formed. Females were starved for 45 days and then fed with citrated bovine blood using capillary tubes in different periods of time. Females were divided in five experimental groups with 20 individuals each and fed as follows: groups uninterruptedly fed for 12, 24, and 48 hours and groups fed 2 and 6 h a day, for a period of 8 days. Subsequently, ticks were exposed to rabbits for complementary feeding and their biological parameters were analyzed. TIcks were capable of feeding, showing rounded idiosoma, visible even to naked eyes, following the feeding period. The groups fed for 24 hours, 2 hours/day for eight consecutive days or 6h/day for eight consecutive days presented greater weight gain, without statistically significant differences. These results suggested that 24 hours of artificial feeding were enough for fasting females to increase weight by 2.43 mg. Artificial feeding through capillaries did not interfere with parasitic and non-parasitic phases of A. cajennense females.O presente trabalho teve como objetivos adaptar a técnica de alimentação artificial por meio de tubos capilares para fêmeas de Amblyomma cajennense e verificar a sua influência sobre os parâmetros biológicos da espécie. Fêmeas em jejum por 45 dias foram alimentadas com sangue bovino citratado usando tubos capilares por diferentes períodos de tempo: 12, 24 e 48 horas, 2 horas/dia e 6 horas/dia por 8 dias consecutivos, sendo que cada grupo foi composto por 20 carrapatos. Em seguida, os carrapatos foram expostos a coelhos para completar a alimentação e seus parâmetros biológicos foram analisados. Após alimentação artificial, os carrapatos apresentaram idiossoma arredondado mesmo à vista desarmada. Os grupos 24 horas, 8 dias/2 horas/dia e 8 dias/6 horas/dia tiveram maior ganho de peso, não havendo diferença estatística entre eles. Desta forma, nas condições do presente trabalho, 24 horas de alimentação artificial foram suficientes para que fêmeas em jejum aumentassem seu peso em 2,43mg. A alimentação artificial utilizando tubos capilares não interferiu nos parâmetros relativos às fases parasitária e não-parasitária de fêmeas A. cajennense.

Usando el método de inmersión, probamos el efecto de extractos vegetales hidroalcohólicos de diez plantas tropicales en garrapatas adultas (Boophilus microplus Canestrini 1887). Usamos extractos crudos hidroalcohólicos (R-OH) para determinar los compuestos más promisorios, los que posteriormente se fraccionaron en sus partes polares y no polares. Las particiones polares de los extractos vegetales mostraron un efecto significativamente inferior que las no polares. Las mayores mortalidades se lograron con: Zizygium aromaticum, Morus alba, Piper nigrum y la mezcla de Allium sativum - Z. aromaticum (todos no polares); sobre la oviposición M. alba, P. nigrum y la mezcla de A. sativum - Z. aromaticum (todos no polares); sobre la eclosión P. nigrum, Z. aromaticum, Echinacea angustifolia, Poligonum punctatum, M. alba y la mezcla de A. sativum- Z. aromaticum (todos no polares); sobre el porcentaje de control P. nigrum, E. angustifolia, P. punctatum y M. alba (todos no polares, con excepción de M. alba en el cual ambas fracciones mostraron actividad importante); sobre el porcentaje de inhibición de la oviposición P. nigrum, E. angustifolia, P. punctatum, Gliricidia sepium y M. alba.Control in vitro tick (Boophilus microplus; Acari: Ixodidae) through plant extracts. Hydro-alcohol extracts of ten tropical plants were tested by the immersion method on mature ticks (Boophilus microplus Canestrini 1887). The biological evaluation was made with raw hydro alcoholic extracts (R-OH) to determine the most promissory compounds, which later were fractioned in their polar and non-polar parts. The polar parts showed a significantly inferior effect. The species that produced the highest mortality were Zizigium aromaticum, Morus alba, Piper nigrum and the mixture of Allium sativum- Z. aromaticum (all non-polar); on oviposition: M. alba, P. nigrum and the mixture of A. sativum - Z. aromaticum (all non-polar); on eclosion: P. nigrum, Z. aromaticum, Echinacea angustiofilia, Poligonum punctatum, M. alba and the mixture of A. sativum- Z. aromaticum (all non-polar): on control percentage: P. nigrum, E. angustifolia, P. punctatum and M. alba (all non-polar, except for M. alba in which both fractions showed important activity); and finally, on the percentage of oviposition inhibition: P. nigrum, E. angustifolia, P. punctatum, Gliricidia sepium and M. alba. Rev. Biol. Trop. 56 (1): 291-302. Epub 2008 March 31.

Extratos hexânicos obtidos dos frutos de Melia azedarach foram testados sobre fêmeas ingurgitadas e larvas de Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus. Foram produzidos quatro extratos: um de frutos verdes e três com frutos maduros, sendo um com os frutos imediatamente processados, outro com frutos armazenados por cinco meses e um testado após armazenamento do extrato por 2 (dois) anos a 4ºC. Os testes foram feitos em triplicata, em diluições de 0,25% a 0,0156%. A eficácia dos extratos foi avaliada através da comparação da Reprodução Estimada dos lotes "controle e tratado" para fêmeas, da mortalidade para as larvas, e do cálculo das DL50 e da potência relativa para larvas e fêmeas. O extrato de frutos verdes apresentou uma eficácia variando de 3,6% a 100% para fêmeas, e o de frutos maduros variou de 5,2% a 99,7%. Os dois extratos causaram uma mortalidade de 100% das larvas nas maiores concentrações. O extrato de frutos armazenados apresentou eficácia de 14% a 83% sobre fêmeas, enquanto o extrato armazenado em geladeira apresentou eficácia de 8,4% a 100% e ambos não apresentaram efeito larvicida. Os resultados obtidos demonstram uma superioridade do extrato verde, com uma menor DL50 e potência 1,497 vezes superior ao extrato de frutos maduros.Hexanic extracts gotten of the fruits of cinamomo (Melia azedarach) were tested on engourged females and larvae of Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus. Four extracts were produced: one of unripe fruits and three of ripe fruits, being one with the fruits immediately processed, another one with fruits stored for five months and one tested after storage of the extract for 2 (two) years at 4ºC. The tests were made in triplicate, in 0.25%- 0.0156% dilutions. The effectiveness of extracts was evaluated through the comparison of the Reproduction Estimate of the groups "controlled and treated" for females, of mortality for the larvae, and of the calculation of the DL50 and the relative power for larvae and females. The extract of unripe fruits presented the effectiveness varying the 3.6% - 100% for females, and of ripe fruits it varied of 5.2% - 99.7%. The two extracts caused a mortality of 100% of the larvae in the highest concentrations. The extract of stored fruits presented effectiveness of 14% - 83% on females, while the extract stored in refrigerator presented effectiveness of 8.4% 100% and both did not present larvicidal effect. The results demonstrate a superiority of the unripe extract, with a minor DL50 and superior power 1.497 times to the extract of ripe fruits.

Observações comportamentais visando aomanejo de capivaras foram realizadas no ParqueEstadual Alberto Löfgren, município de São Paulo,SP, Brasil. Para tanto, se acompanhou um grupo decapivaras de vida livre dessa Unidade de Conservação.Após a contagem do número de indivíduos e daanálise das interações intraespecíficas, foi realizadoo primeiro manejo destes animais no Parque.O controle dos carrapatos provenientes das capivarastambém foi abordado.Behavioral observations with the purposeof capybara management were carried out in theAlberto Löfgren State Park, county of São Paulo,Brazil. A group of wild capybaras of this site werefollowed. After counting the individuals numberand analyzing the intraespecific interactions,the first management approach was performed.The control of ticks dispersed by capybaras wasalso discussed.

O presente artigo é uma atualização sobre a ocorrência e diagnóstico das riquetsioses existentes no Brasil e Portugal, com o objetivo de incentivar e incrementar a vigilância epidemiológica dessas doenças nos dois países. Realizou-se levantamento bibliográfico e foram apresentados dados não publicados de laboratórios e serviços de epidemiologia. Os resultados descreveram a ocorrência das riquetsioses no Brasil e Portugal, inclusive aquelas recém-descritas, advindas de riquétsias de potencial patogênico ainda incerto. Os métodos diagnósticos atualmente empregados foram discutidos. Como em outros países, as riquetsioses parecem assumir crescente importância em saúde pública. Relegadas a um plano secundário por muitas décadas, o interesse por essas infecções tem aumentado nos dois países, mas ainda carece de investigação para esclarecer seu real significado em saúde pública.The present study is an update review on the occurrence and diagnosis of rickettsial diseases in Brazil and Portugal, aiming at promoting their epidemiological surveillance in both countries. A literature review was carried out and unpublished data of laboratories and surveillance systems were presented. The results described the occurrence of rickettsial diseases and infections in Brazil and Portugal, including other new and still poorly understood rickettsial infections. Current diagnostic methods were discussed. As in many other countries, rickettsial diseases and infections seem to be an emerging public health problem. Treated as a minor problem for many decades, the interest in these infections has increased in both countries but further studies are needed to establish their role as a public health problem.

At present not only is the site of fertilization in ticks still unknown but it is also unclear as to how this mystery can be solved. Signs of fertilization can be observed throughout the female genital tract and these can be clues for the elucidation of the unsolved questions relating to ticks fertilization. In Boophilus microplus (Canestrini, 1887) the most important signs are the following: the final eversion of the acrosomal canal in females ready for oviposition; the presence of small tubules, resembling the subplasmalemal process of the spermatozoon between the oviduct cells; budding nuclei throughout the female genital tract; and the two Feulgen and DAPI positive areas in the oocyte at vitelogenesis. These morphological characteristics suggest that fertilization takes place in the internal cylinder which extends from the uterus to the ovary itself.Até o momento, não só o lugar da fertilização em carrapatos é desconhecido, mas também não é claro como este mistério possa ser esclarecido. Sinais de fertilização podem ser observados ao longo do trato genital feminino e estes podem ser pistas para a elucidação das questões relacionadas à fertilização em ácaros. Em Boophilus microplus (Canestrini, 1887), os sinais mais importantes são os seguintes: a eversão final do canal acrossômico em fêmeas prestes à oviposição; a presença de pequenos túbulos assemelhando-se a processos subplasmalêmicos dos espermatozóides entre as células do oviduto; brotamentos nucleares ao longo do trato genital feminino e as duas áreas Feulgen e DAPI positivas nos ovócitos em processo de vitelogênese. Estas características morfológicas sugerem que a fertilização ocorra no cilindro interno, o qual se estende desde o útero até o ovário inclusive.

El estudio sobre la abundancia relativa de Boophilus microplus se realizó en diez fincas, distribuidas en ocho zonas ecológicas (ZE) y dos regímenes pluviales de Costa Rica. Se efectuaron visitas mensuales para recolectar garrapatas mayores de 4.5 mm del lado derecho de los animales. El número total de garrapatas se multiplicaba por dos y se dividía entre el total de animales muestreados durante la visita para determinar el promedio de garrapatas por finca. Se trató de adecuar la visita a la finca al baño de los animales para permitir la recuperación de la población de garrapatas. Se detectó B. microplus en todas las fincas muestreadas, a lo largo del año. Se hicieron análisis estadísticos de comparación de medias y no se encontraron diferencias entre ZE, fincas o épocas del año. Por el contrario, si hubo diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre los regímenes pluviales. El régimen pluvial 1, con estacionalidad de lluvias presentó mayores infestaciones de garrapatas (p = 0.03). Se nota una situación de isotermia y de poca variabilidad en cuanto a la humedad relativa en algunas de las zonas en estudio. La intensidad de los baños fue bastante inferior a otros estudios realizados en el pasado. Pese a que no se encontraron diferencias entre sistemas de producción, se hace énfasis en que las intensidades de baño fueron mayores en una finca de ganado europeo, en comparación con otra de la misma ZE, pero de ganado cruzado. Se recomienda el sistema de eliminación manual de garrapatas en las fincas de doble propósito y lechería especializada con cargas no mayores de 30-35 animales, como un sistema alternativo viable para reducir, de manera considerable, la aplicación de ixodicidas y con ello se logran una serie de ventajas importantes.The research on the relative abundancy of Boophilus microplus took place in ten farms, distributed in eight ecological zones (EZ) and two rainfall systems of Costa Rica. Monthly visits were made to pick up ticks larger than 4mm from the right side of the animals. The total number of ticks was increased by two and divided between the total of sampled bovines per farm. Farm visits were adjusted to animals bath to allow the recovery of the tick population. B. microplus was detected in all sampled farms throughout the year. Media comparison statistic analyses were made and no differences were found among EZ, farms and seasons. On the contrary, there were important statistical differences between rainfall systems. The rainfall system 1, that included rain seasonality, showed larger tick infestations (p = 0.03). An isothermal and low variability regarding relative humidity situations were present in some of the areas included in this research. Bath intensity was lower to other past studies. Eventhough no differences were found between production systems, it is important to emphasize that bath intensity was higher in european cattle farms, in comparison to others of the same EZ, but of crossbred. A tick manual removable system was recommended in dual-purpose and specialized dairy farms with no more than 30-35 animals, as an alternative feasible system that significantly reduced acaricide use.

La enfermedad de Lyme o borreliosis de Lyme es una zoonosis transmitida por garrapatas del género Ixodes y producida por la espiroqueta Borrelia burgdorferi. Ha sido descrita principalmente en Norteamérica, Europa y Asia, y se caracteriza clínicamente por una presentación en tres etapas: inicial con eritema migrans que comienza alrededor de la picadura de la garrapata; infección diseminada con fiebre, ataque al estado general, artritis migratoria, linfadenopatías, alteraciones neurológicas y hepatitis; y la forma crónica, caracterizada por artritis, periostitis, encefalomielitis crónica y polirradiculopatía, entre otras manifestaciones. En Costa Rica se desconocen notificaciones de pacientes con esta patología, por lo que se presenta el caso de una mujer adulta que tras un viaje al Estado de La Florida en los Estados Unidos, presentó cuadro clínico y serológico compatible con la forma leve de la enfermedad de Lyme. Se discuten los hallazgos y se alerta sobre la posibilidad de diagnosticar esta zoonosis, dado el auge del turismo ecológico en estos días.Lyme disease or Lyme borreliosis is a zoonosis transmitted by the Ixodes ticks and caused by a spirochete Borrelia burgdorferi. It has been reported mostly in North America, Europe and Asia and is clinically characterized by a presentation on 3 stages, starting with erythema migrans that begins around the tick bite. Disseminated infection with fever, migratory arthritis, lymphadenopathy, neurological alterations and hepatitis and the chronic phase characterized by arthritis, periostitis, chronic encephalomielitis, polyradiculopathy amongst other manifestations. In Costa Rica, we know of no reports of patients with this disease, so we herein present the case of an woman who, after a trip to the state of Florida, presented clinical and serological alterations compatible with the mild form of Lyme disease. The findings are discussed and also we alert to the possibility of diagnosing this zoonosis, given the increment of green or ecological tourism nowadays.

Introduction Rural primary health centers frequently treat patients with tick bites. This study compares everyday clinical practice at our primary healthcare center to practices recommended by current scientific evidence. Purpose To describe the everyday management of tick bites by different healthcare professionals and to compare this management to evidence-based therapy guidelines. Design Cross-sectional, descriptive observational study. Methods Data was collected through an anonymous self-completed questionnaire. The form was filled out by a consecutive sample of nurses, physicians and pediatricians of the clinical management unit of Medina-Sidonia (Cádiz). Results Most nurses in the sample group use some type of product to facilitate the extraction of the tick (10 of the 11 surveyed nurses, 90.9%). The most frequently used products were chloroethyl and local anesthetic. In addition, nine nurses use gentle traction with tweezers (81.82%) to remove the tick. In the physician sample group, 3 out of 12 respondents (25%) prescribe antibiotics in all cases and nine stated that they knew which antibiotic should be used as first choice. In both cases, a high number of healthcare providers confirm giving post-extraction advice to patients: 11 in the medical community (91.66%) and nine nurses (81.82%). Conclusions We conclude that the performance of the healthcare providers that integrate this study does not closely follow general recommendations for extraction, treatment and follow-up care in patients with tick bites. Therefore, there is a need to improve the level of knowledge to ensure quality care in these instances.

El presente trabajo es una revisión bibliográfica que recopila antecedentes sobre las 58 especies de Ixodida que pueden parasitar al perro (Canis familiaris) a nivel mundial, y se incluye para cada especie su distribución geográfica, hospedadores, ubicación en el hospedador, actividad estacional, ciclo de vida y enfermedades transmitidasA review of the 58 species of ixodid-ticks that are parasites of the dog (Canis familiaris) in the world is presented. The geographical distribution, hosts, location on the hosts, seasonal activity, life-cycles and transmitted diseases are mentioned