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This research reports ticks on wild raptors in Brazil. Between the years 1936 and 2019, 127 larvae, 230 nymphs and 34 adult ticks were collected on 92 raptors (among 27 different species) from 35 localities in distinct Brazilian biomes. Additionally, an extensive literature review on ticks on wild raptors has been carried out, demonstrating that from 1993 to 2016, 29 larvae, 81 nymphs, 29 adults and 186 indeterminate immature ticks (larvae or nymphs) were collected on 41 raptors (16 different species) in 17 distinct localities in the Brazilian territory. The following tick species were identified on wild raptors in the country: Amblyomma aureolatum (Pallas, 1772), Amblyomma auricularium (Conil, 1878), Amblyomma brasiliense Aragao, 1908, Amblyomma cajennense (Fabricius, 1787) sensu stricto, Amblyomma calcaratum Neumann, 1899, Amblyomma coelebs Neumann, 1899, Amblyomma dubitatum Neumann, 1899, Amblyomma longirostre (Koch, 1844), Amblyomma nodosum Neumann, 1899, Amblyomma ovale Koch, 1844, Amblyomma parkeri Fonseca & Aragao, 1952, Amblyomma sculptum Berlese, 1888, Haemaphysalis juxtakochi Cooley, 1946, Rhipicephalus microplus (Canestrini, 1888), and Rhipicephalus sanguineus (Latreille, 1806) sensu lato. This study is therefore a significant contribution to our knowledge of the ticks associated with Brazilian raptors.

Toxoplasmosis is a zoonotic disease caused by the ubiquitous coccidia Toxoplasma gondii. Rodents play an important role in maintaining its life cycle, as they are one of the main diet sources for felids (wild and domestic), the unique definitive hosts. However, reports of toxoplasmosis in porcupines (Rodentia Order) are uncommon, with gaps concerning its pathophysiology. South America is the continent with the greatest genetic diversity of rodents and T. gondii. A free-ranging hairy dwarf porcupine was admitted to a wildlife rescue center with a history of trauma. During rehabilitation, the animal presented neurological symptoms (sporadic episodes of hind limbs paresis) and died five months later. The main findings during necropsy were brain congestion and severe incisor overgrowth associated with maxillary perforation. The histopathological exam showed moderate encephalitis, with variable-sized round cysts, positive for PAS stain and immunohistochemistry for T. gondii. Additionally, two cysts were observed in the medulla of the adrenal gland. Molecular techniques were performed to characterize the parasite load by qPCR (Cq=30) and the genotype by PCR-RFLP with 11 markers, which revealed a new genotype. This case adds to the body of knowledge in comparative pathology of Neotropical Rodentia and reports a new genotype circulating in South America.

In a previous study in Brazil, six isolates of Sarcocystis spp. recovered from budgerigars fed sporocysts excreted by opossums of the genus Didelphis were characterized by means of sequencing fragments of gene coding cytochrome B (CYTB), internal transcribed spacer 1 (ITS1), and surface antigen genes (SAG2, SAG3 and SAG4). The isolates shared identical ITS1 and CYTB sequences, but differed at SAG2, SAG3 and SAG4: three allele variants of SAG2, 3 allele variants of SAG3 and 2 allele variants of SAG4 were encountered in three multilocus genotypes (MLGs) (MLG1, MLG2, and MLG3). At ITS1 and CYTB, all the isolates from budgerigars were identical to the Sarcocystis falcatula-like isolate 59-2016-RS-BR that was detected in a barefaced ibis (Phimosus infuscatus) causing necrotizing meningoencephalitis in Brazil. At ITS1 locus, all the above isolates were clearly distinct from Sarcocystis neurona, Sarcocystis falcatula, Sarcocystis lindsayi, and Sarcocystis speeri, the four known species of Sarcocystis that use opossums of the genus Didelphis as definitive hosts. Here, we replicated the experiment above to identify additional MLGs or other species of Sarcocystis. Fifteen budgerigars were experimentally infected with sporocysts of Sarcocystis spp. from 12 opossums of the genus Didelphis. All the birds died 9–19 days after infection and tissue samples containing merozoites and schizonts of Sarcocystis spp. were recovered. Fractions of sequences coding for 18S ribosomal RNA gene (18S), CYTB, ITS1, SAG2, SAG3 and SAG4 were PCR amplified and sequenced from the infected lungs. In addition, fractions of 18S, SAG2, SAG3 and SAG4 were sequenced from the isolate 59-2016-RS-BR and fractions of 18S were sequenced from the six isolates from budgerigars described above. From the results, all the isolates shared identical 18S, ITS1 and CYTB sequences. Among the 15 new isolates from budgerigars, three allele variants of SAG2, 3 allele variants of SAG3 and 2 allele variants of SAG4 were encountered in five MLGs, of which four were novel (MLG1, MLG4, MLG5, MLG6 and MLG7). Isolate 59-2016-RS-BR was assigned to an eighth MLG (MLG8). Molecular data pointed that Sarcocystis assigned to MLGs 1 to 8 are variants of the same species, but the SAG-based trees of the isolates conflicted, which supports genetic admixture among them. The sarcocystinae studied have high diversity of SAG alleles per locus and the correlation of such an abundant variety of SAG alleles to host specificity and pathogenicity needs to be assessed. Remains to be elucidated if the parasites studied here and S. falcatula are variants of the same species that have diverged to the point of possessing differences at ITS1 level, but that are still capable of exchanging genes.

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is rare in New World primates. We report the gross, microscopical, and immunocytochemical features of a spontaneous HCC in a free-living marmoset (Callithrix sp.). Hepatitis B and C virus and aflatoxin immunohistochemistry were negative; however, concomitant intra- and extrahepatic biliary trematodiasis could have played a role.

Made available in DSpace on 2022-04-29T08:27:21Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2018-06-01 Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq) Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP) This retrospective study describes the biological and epidemiological aspects, gross and microscopical findings, and most likely causes of death (CD) in two species of Neotropical deer in Brazil. The animals were collected between 1995 and 2015 and represented 75 marsh deer (MD) and 136 brown brocket deer (BBD). Summarized, pneumonia was diagnosed microscopically in 48 MD and 52 BBD; 76 deer suffered trauma, involving dog attack (14 BBD) and vehicle-collision (14 BBD). Pulmonary edema (50 MD; 55 BBD) and congestion (57 MD; 78 BBD) were the most common findings for both species. Additionally, we diagnosed ruminal and myocardial mycosis in MD and BBD, respectively; ovarian dysgerminoma and pancreatic trematodiasis in BBD; and lesions suggestive of malignant catarrhal fever and orbiviral hemorrhagic disease in both species. The main CD in MD was: respiratory (41/75), alimentary, nutritional, trauma and euthanasia (3/75 each). Correspondingly, in BBD were: trauma (34/131), respiratory (30/131) and euthanasia (9/131). Respiratory disease was often defined by pulmonary edema and pneumonia. We provide evidence that respiratory disease, mainly pneumonia, is a critical pathological process in these Neotropical deer species. Although no etiological agents were identified, there is evidence of bacterial and viral involvement. Our results show trauma, mainly anthropogenic, as a common ailment in BBD. We propose to prioritize respiratory disease in future research focused on South American deer health aspects. We believe anthropogenic trauma may be a primary threat for populations of BBD. Laboratory of Wildlife Comparative Pathology - LAPCOM School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences University of São Paulo Divisão Técnica de Medicina Veterinária e Manejo da Fauna Silvestre (DEPAVE-3) Deer Research and Conservation Center (NUPECCE) Department of Animal Science São Paulo State University, Jaboticabal Instituto Adolfo Lutz (IAL) Centro de Patologia Laboratory of Morphological and Molecular Pathology School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences University of São Paulo Laboratory of Animal Models School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences University of São Paulo Deer Research and Conservation Center (NUPECCE) Department of Animal Science São Paulo State University, Jaboticabal CNPq: # 305349/2015-5 FAPESP: #2015/04231-2 FAPESP: #2017/02223-8

Dogs sera samples collected from Cotia County, São Paulo were tested using indirect immunoenzymatic test (ELISA) in order to study Lyme disease serology in dogs. ELISA method was standardized and G39/40 North American strain of Borrelia burgdorferi was used as antigen. Positive results were confirmed employing the Western blotting technique. Because of the possibility of cross-reactions, sera were also tested for different serological strains of Leptospira interrogans and L. biflexa using microscopic sera agglutination test. Twenty-three of 237 (9.7%) serum samples were positive in the ELISA; 20 of them (86.9%) were confirmed by the Western blotting, what suggests that Cotia may be a risk area for Lyme disease. Although 4 samples (1.7%) were positive for Lyme disease and leptospirosis, no correlation was found between the results (X² = 0.725; p = 0.394) what suggests absence of serological cross reactivity. Com a finalidade de estudar a ocorrência da doença de Lyme em cães no Brasil, o teste imunoenzimático (ELISA) indireto, utilizado para o diagnóstico da doença no homem, foi padronizado para a espécie canina. Utilizou-se como antígeno a cepa americana de Borrelia burgdorferi G 39/40. Os soros de cães procedentes da região de Cotia, área de risco para ocorrência da doença de Lyme, foram testados e os resultados positivos foram confirmados através da técnica de "Western blotting". Para investigação de possíveis reações cruzadas, os soros foram também testados para diferentes variantes sorológicas de Leptospira interrogans e L. biflexa pela técnica de soroaglutinação microscópica. Dos 237 soros testados pela técnica de ELISA, 23 (9,7%) foram positivos, sendo que 20 (86,9%) destes soros foram também positivos pela técnica de "Western blotting", sugerindo que a região de Cotia seja área de risco para doença de Lyme. Embora 4 (1,7%) dos soros testados apresentassem positividade para doença de Lyme e para leptospirose concomitantemente, não foi observada associação entre estes resultados (X² = 0,725 e p = 0,394), sugerindo ausência de reatividade sorológica cruzada entre as duas enfermidades.

O presente trabalho teve como objetivo identificar e caracterizar as causas de morte de aves de rapina de vida livre da região do município de São Paulo e áreas vizinhas. O estudo incluiu 114 aves de rapina, sendo 40 da ordem Falconiformes e 74 da ordem Strigiformes, atendidas pela Divisão de Fauna do município de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brasil, durante o período de outubro de 2002 a maio de 2006. As causas de morte identificadas foram: eutanásia (41,2%); causas não-infecciosas (32,5%); causas infecciosas (19,3%); causas parasitárias (3,5%) e causas indeterminadas (3,5%). As lesões traumáticas osteoarticulares foram o motivo mais freqüente de eutanásia (51,1%), seguindo-se das lesões em tecidos moles (17,0%), lesões isquêmicas das extremidades das asas (17,0%), tricomoníase (10,6%) e causas variadas (4,3%). Os traumas se destacaram como uma importante causa de morte natural ou induzida (eutanásia). Dentre as causas de morte infecciosas, as infecções por protozoários (tricomoníase) (54,5%) foram as mais freqüentes, seguindo-se das infecções bacterianas (40,9%). O presente trabalho permitiu identificar os principais processos que causam a morte de aves de rapina, Falconiformes e Strigiformes na região de São Paulo, fornecendo importantes subsídios para o atendimento clínico e tratamento das condições mais comumente encontradas nessa população. The goal of this work was to identify and characterize the causes of death of free-living birds of prey from São Paulo city and its surroundings. In the present work 114 raptors were studied, 40 of them belonging to the Falconiformes order and 74 to the Strigiformes order, all admitted at the São Paulo City Fauna Division, Brazil, during the period of October 2002 to May 2006. The causes of death were determined as: euthanasia (41,2%), non-infectious causes (32,5%), infectious causes (19,3%), parasitic diseases (3,5%) and indeterminate (3,5%). Bones and joints lesions were the most frequent cause that lead to euthanasia (51,1%), followed by soft tissue lesions (17%), wing tips ischemic lesions (17%), Trichomoniasis (10,6%) and various causes (4,3%). Trauma outstands as an important cause of natural or induced death, while in the field of infectious diseases trichomoniasis (54,5%) was the most frequent, followed by bacterial infections (40,9%). The present study allowed us to identify the principal processes that cause the death of raptorial birds at São Paulo City. These findings also provided important information for clinical attendance and medical treatment for the most common conditions in this population.

In the peripheral blood of the roadside hawk, Buteo magnirostris, the following types of granulocytic leucocytes were identified: heterophil, eosinophil and basophil. The heterophils presented acidophilic and spindle shaped granules, the eosinophils possess spherical eosinophilic granules and the basophils showed spherical and basophilic granules. The heterophils and eosinophils presented positive cytochemical reaction to glycogen and basic polyaminoacid, while the eosinophils presented sudanophilic granules, which were also positive for myeloperoxidase. The heterophils, alone, presented positivity for acid phosphatase in some granules and immunoreactivity to TGF-beta1 was observed only in the cytoplasm of the eosinophils. Electron microscopy demonstrated the heterophil granules as predominantly spindle shaped, being strongly electron-dense, while the eosinophils had numerous uniformly electron-dense spherical granules and the basophils presented three different types of granules identified according to their electron-density and the aspect of their matrix.

Basic hematological information about the avian in its natural habitat is limited. In this study we aimed at investigating, in the peripherical blood of the roadside hawk, Buteo magnirostris, the number of thrombocytes and their morphological, cytochemical and ultrastructural aspects. Blood smears were submited to the following methods: Leishman for morphological analysis and specific methods for the characterization of four kinds of macromolecules of different chemical nature: Glycogen, lysosomal enzymes (myeloperoxidase and the acid phosphatase), basic polyaminoacid rich proteins and phospholipids. The average number of thrombocytes was 26.8 x 10³ ± 10,2 / µL. Structurally the thrombocytes present predominantly elliptic shape, with dense and clumped nuclear chromatin. The cytoplasm is clear, vacuolated and may contain one or two purple azurophilic granules at the poles. The thrombocytes presented positive cytochemical reaction to glycogen, polyaminoacid and for acid phosphatase. Ultrastructurally, the thrombocytes appear as elliptical or spherical cells containing Golgi, much smooth endoplasmic reticulum, small mitochondria, dense osmiophilic granules, microtubules at the outermost zone of the cell and large vacuoles connected to the canalicular system or opened to the surface La información hematológica básica sobre las aves en su habitat natural es limitado. Investigamos la sangre periférica de Buteo magnirostris, el número de trombocitos y sus aspectos morfológicos, citoquímicos y ultraestructurales. Muestras de sangre fueron tratadas con los siguientes métodos: Leishman para análisis morfológico y métodos específicos para la caracterización de cuatro tipos de macromoléculas de diferente naturaleza química: Glicógeno, enzimas lisosomales (mieloperoxidasa y fosfatasa ácida), poliaminoácidos básicos ricos en proteínas y fosfolípidos. El número promedio de trombocitos fue 26.8 x 10³ ± 10,2 / mL. Estructuralmente los trombocitos presentaban predominantemente forma elíptica, con densa y agrupada cromatina nuclear. El citoplasma era claro, vacuolado y contenía uno o dos gránulos azurofílicos morados en los polos. Los trombocitos presentaron reacción citoquímica positiva para glucógeno, poliaminoácidos y fosfatasa ácida. Ultraestructuralmente, los trombocitos se presentaban como células elípticas o esféricas conteniendo Golgi, con mucho retículo endoplasmático liso, pequeñas mitocondrias, densos gránulos osmiofílicos, microtúbulos en la zona exterior de la célula y vacuolas grandes conectadas a través del sistema canalicular o abiertas a la superficie

Zoonosis represent the majority of emerging infectious diseases, which have variable occurrence according to biological, environmental, socio-economic and cultural factors. With respect to socio-cultural factors, a growing practice in Brazil is keeping exotic animals as pets. These can have significant role in the spread of pathogens with zoonotic potencial, such as Chlamydia psittaci, etiologic agent of chlamydiosis in birds and psittacosis in humans. The Psittaciformes are the main order of birds affected by C. psittaci and is the most commonly kept as a pet. Avian chlamydiosis is endemic in Brazil; however, few studies have been conducted regarding its zoonotic potential. In human, psittacosis can lead to atypical pneumonia, however, due to difficulties related to laboratory diagnosis and the relative lack of knowledge by health professionals about this disease, its prevalence in the country is still unknown. In this context, this study aimed to determine the occurrence of C. psittaci in patients with psittacosis symptoms attended at the Ambulatory of Tropical Diseases and Zoonosis of the Infectology Institute Emilio Ribas (IIER). In addition, establishing the epidemiological link with birds and evaluate risk factors related to this zoonosis. Therefore, serum samples from eligible patients were collected in order to be tested for C. psittaci IgA, IgM and IgG antibodies. At the same time, biological samples from any species of birds related to suspected cases of psittacosis were collected for molecular analysis of C. psittaci. Among the eligible patients in this study, 27% (10/37) were classified as confirmed cases of psittacosis; 13.5% (5/37) as probable and 59.5% (22/37) as discarded. Pneumonia (p = 0.004), cough (p = 0.002) and chills (p = 0.011) were statistically significant when comparing with those patients in which psittacosis was discarded. With reference to the epidemiological link with birds, 73% (11/15) of the confirmed/probable cases had domiciliary contact with birds and 27% (4/15) had occupational contact. In addition, 47% (7/15) patients had contact with infected birds in which C. psittaci was laboratorial confirmed; from another 47% (7/15) of the cases, biological samples of the birds related to the patient could not be obtained, and in 6% (1/15) of the cases C. psittaci was not detected in the bird hosts evaluated. In addition, several confirmed/probable cases reported having close contact with the birds as handling (100%, 15/15), keeping the bird in the shoulder (67%, 10/15), kissing the bird (40%, 6/15) and sharing the food with the bird (13%, 2/15), practices that facilitate diseases transmission. Human and animal health care providers have an important role to play in identifying specific factors affecting the health of their patients and should work together. Conjointly efforts would increase the understanding on zoonotic disease and would, ultimately, improve prevention and control strategies As zoonoses representam a maior parte das doenças infecciosas emergentes, as quais tem ocorrência variável de acordo com fatores biológicos, ambientais e sócio-econômico-culturais. No que tange aos fatores sócio-culturais, uma prática crescente no Brasil é a manutenção de espécies silvestres como animais de estimação. Estes podem ter significante papel na disseminação de agentes patogênicos com potencial zoonótico, tal como Chlamydia psittaci, agente etiológico da clamidiose em aves e da psitacose em seres humanos. Os Psittaciformes representam a principal Ordem de aves acometida pela C. psittaci, sendo também a mais comumente mantida como pet. A clamidiose aviária é endêmica no Brasil, contudo, são raros os estudos direcionados a avaliação do seu potencial zoonótico. Em humanos a psitacose pode desencadear um quadro severo de pneumonia atípica, no entanto, devido à dificuldade relacionada ao diagnóstico laboratorial e pelo relativo desconhecimento da doença pelos profissionais de saúde, sua prevalência no país é ainda desconhecida. Dentro desse contexto, o presente trabalho teve como objetivo determinar a ocorrência da C. psittaci em pacientes suspeitos de psitacose atendidos no Ambulatório de doenças tropicais e zoonoses do Instituto de Infectologia Emílio Ribas (IIER); estabelecer o vínculo epidemiológico com aves realizando o diagnóstico nestas, assim como avaliar os fatores de risco relacionados com essa zoonose. Para tanto, amostras de sangue de pacientes com quadros suspeitos de psitacose foram coletadas para a investigação de anticorpos anti-C. psittaci IgA, IgM e IgG. Paralelamente, amostras biológicas de quaisquer espécies de aves relacionadas com os casos suspeitos de psitacose foram coletadas para a pesquisa molecular de C. psittaci. Entre os pacientes elegíveis deste estudo, 27% (10/37) foram classificados como casos confirmados de psitacose; 13,5% (5/37) como prováveis e 59,5% (22/37) como descartados. Pneumonia (p = 0.004), tosse (p = 0.002) e calafrio (p = 0.011) foram estatisticamente significantes quando comparado com os pacientes nos quais a psitacose foi descartada. Quanto ao vínculo epidemiológico com aves, 73% (11/15) dos casos prováveis e confirmados de psitacose relataram exposição domiciliar com aves e em 27% (4/15) a exposição foi ocupacional. Adicionalmente, 47% (7/15) dos pacientes tiveram contato com aves nas quais a infecção por C. psittaci foi comprovada laboratorialmente. Em 47% (7/15) dos casos não foi possível obter material biológico das aves relacionadas com os casos e em 6% (1/15) dos casos C. psittaci não foi detectada nas aves avaliadas. Ainda, os casos prováveis e confirmados de psitacose relataram manter contato próximo com suas aves, como pega-lás na mão (100%, 15/15), mantê-las no ombro (67%, 10/15), beijá-las (40%, 6/15) e dividir alimento com elas (13%, 2/15). Ressalta-se que essas práticas facilitam a transmissão do patógeno. Profissionais da saúde tanto humana quanto animal têm um papel importante a desempenhar na identificação de fatores que afetam a saúde de seus pacientes e devem, portanto, trabalhar juntos. Esforços mútuos contribuiriam no conhecimento de doenças com potencial zoonótico e certamente contribuiriam para medidas mais eficazes de prevenção e controle

Columbiformes sinantrópicos podem ter um importante papel na epidemiologia de patógenos com potencial zoonótico ou de impacto econômico para a indústria avícola. Dentre eles destacam-se: Mycoplasma spp., Salmonella spp., paramixovírus aviário tipo 1 (APMV-1), inseridos no Programa Nacional de Sanidade Avícola (PNSA) e a Chlamydophila psittaci, agente de uma das principais zoonoses relacionada com aves silvestres. Dentro desse contexto, este trabalho objetivou pesquisar, sazonalmente, a ocorrência destes patógenos em pombos-domésticos (Columba livia) em dois entrepostos no Estado de São Paulo. Ao longo de um ano, mensalmente 10 pombos foram capturados em cada entreposto para a colheita de amostras de suabe cloacal e sangue. A técnica de soroaglutinação rápida em placa (SAR) foi utilizada para a detecção de anticorpos anti-M. synoviae, anti-M. gallisepticum e anti-S.Pullorum/Gallinarum; para a confirmação dos sororeagentes foram utilizadas a prova de inibição da hemaglutinação e soroaglutinação lenta, respectivamente. Para a detecção do DNA de C. psittaci e RNA de AMPV-1 foram utilizados métodos moleculares, PCR e RT-PCR. Para investigação de anticorpos anti-APMV-1 foi empregada a técnica de HI. Na SAR, 3,3% dos soros foram reagentes para M. synoviae; 2,5% para M. gallisepticum e 0,4% para S. Pullorum/Gallinarum. No entanto, essas amostras foram negativas nas técnicas confirmatórias. A ocorrência do APMV-1 não foi detectada. O DNA de C. psittaci foi detectado em 13,3% das amostras sendo 10,8% provenientes de aves capturadas na estação seca e 15,8% na estação chuvosa. Tais resultados são relevantes, pois demonstram que a C. psittaci ocorre em pombos presentes em áreas públicas frequentadas por um grande número de pessoas. Frente à escassez de pesquisas realizadas em Columbiformes no país, novos estudos são necessários para a determinação do real risco que pombos-domésticos podem representar quanto à transmissão de patógenos para aves comerciais e a influência da sazonalidade na disseminação desses microrganismos. Columbiformes may play an important role in the epidemiology of pathogens with zoonotic potential or economic impact in the poultry industry. Among these pathogens there are Mycoplasma spp., Salmonella spp., Avian Paramyxovirus type 1 (APMV-1), included in the National Poultry Health Program (PNSA) and Chlamydophila psittaci, etiologic agent of an important zoonosis associated with wild birds. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate, seasonally, the occurrence of the pathogens listed above in feral pigeons (Columba livia) in two warehouses in São Paulo State. During one year, 10 birds were captured monthly in each locality and cloacal swabs and blood samples were collected from each pigeon. The rapid seroagglutination test was performed for the detection of antibodies against M. synoviae, M. gallisepticum and Salmonella Pullorum/Gallinarum. Positive results were submitted to the hemagglutination inhibition and slow seroagglutination test, respectively. For the C. psittacis DNA and APMV-1s RNA diagnosis, molecular techniques PCR and RT-PCR were performed. Hemagglutination inhibition test was also performed in order to detect antibodies against APMV-1. From the serum samples analyzed by rapid seroagglutination test, 3.3% were positive for M. synoviae, 2.5% for M. gallisepticum and 0.4% for S. Pullorum/Gallinarum. However, none of these samples was positive on the confirmatory tests. APMV-1 was not detected in any of the laboratory tests used. C. psittacis DNA was detected in 13.3% of the samples being, 10.8% from pigeons captured during the dry season and 15.8% in the rainy season. These results are relevant since they indicate that C. psittaci occurs in birds living in public areas frequented by a large number of people. The occurrence of the other pathogens was not detected. Nevertheless, due to lack of information about the pigeons sanitary status in the country, additional researches are necessary to determine the risk that feral pigeons can pose in the transmission of pathogens for poultry and the influence of each season in the spread of these microorganisms.

Foram coletadas 137 amostras sanguíneas de 132 espécimes diferentes, pertencentes a sete espécies de Strigiformes (n=92) e onze espécies de Falconiformes (n=45), entre os meses de setembro de 2008 e julho de 2009. As amostras foram submetidas a hemograma completo, pesquisa de hemoparasitos através da avaliação do esfregaço sanguíneo, sexagem através da técnica de PCR e mensuração da atividade de colinesterases plasmáticas através do método de Ellman (1961). Apenas sete corujinhas-do-mato (Megascops choliba) apresentaram hemoparasitos (5,3 % do total de rapinantes). Houve diferença significativa conforme o estado de saúde da ave, sendo que a todos os animais clinicamente hígidos não estavam infectados, porém 20,4% dos animais com desordens clínicas apresentavam hemosporídeos. Quantitativamente, a parasitemia mediana dos animais infectados foi de 3,8 hemácias parasitadas por 10.000 hemácias, um índice de infecção relativamente baixo. A grande maioria dos parâmetros hematológicos não apresentou diferenças estatísticas em função da presença ou ausência de hemoparasitos, o que na maioria dos casos caracterizou uma infecção branda e pouco patogênica. A atividade de colinesterases plasmáticas apresentou uma distribuição normal, com uma média geométrica de 0,8333 micromoles/mL e desvio padrão geométrico de 1,7087 µmols/mL. A atividade de colinesterases plasmáticas apresentou diferenças estatísticas significativas entre Falconiformes (0,5705±1,6497 µmols/mL) e Strigiformes (1,0070±1,5620 µmols/mL). Não houve diferenças significativas entre machos ou fêmeas e adultos ou jovens dentre os Falconiformes ou Strigiformes. Falconiformes não hígidos apresentaram valores surpreendentemente mais baixos do que os clinicamente hígidos. Entre os Strigiformes, os espécimes de cativeiro apresentaram valores mais baixos de atividade de colinesterases plasmáticas do que os de vida livre. A atividade de colinesterases plasmáticas foi significativamente diferente entre os animais com hemoparasitos (mediana geométrica = 2,0132 µmols/mL) e sem hemoparasitos (mediana geométrica = 0,8331 µmols/mL). Este estudo contribui com informações relevantes sobre a ocorrência de hemosporídeos em aves de rapina do Estado de São Paulo, alertando as Instituições sobre a necessidade de monitoração destes protozoários sanguíneos. Além disso, contribui com dados inéditos sobre a atividade de colinesterases plasmáticas em rapinantes. 137 blood samples were collected from 132 different specimen, belonging to seven species of Strigiformes (n=92) and eleven species of Falconiformes (n=45), from September 2008 to July 2009. Samples were submitted to complete hemogram, survey for hemoparasites through evaluation of blood smears, sex identification by PCR and measurement of plasmatic cholinesterases by the method of Ellman (1961). Only seven black-capped-screech-owls (Megascops choliba) were positive for hemoparasites (5,3% of total raptors). There were significative difference according to avian health status; all the clinicaly higid animal were not infected, but 20,4% of animals with clinical desorders presented haemosporidians. Quantitatively, the average parasitemia was 3,8 parasited erythrocytes in 10.000 erythrocytes, a infection rate relatively low. The most of hematologic parameters did not present statistic differences in function of presence or absence of hemoparasites, what in most of the cases characterized a low and not much pathogenic infection. The plasmatic cholinesterase activity presented normal distribution, with geometric average of 0,8333 micromoles/mL and geometric standard deviation of 1,7087 µmols/mL. The plasmatic cholinesterase activity presented statistic differences between Falconiformes (0,5705±1,6497 µmols/mL) and Strigiformes (1,0070±1,5620 µmols/mL). There were not significative differences between males of females and adults or youngs between Falconiformes or Strigiformes. Non-higid Falconiformes presented surprisiling much low values than those clinically higid. Between Strigiformes, the captivity specimens present much lower plasmatic cholinesterase activity values than free ranging animals. The plasmatic cholinesterase activity was signifactively different among animal with hemoparasites (geometric average = 2,0132 µmols/mL) and without hemoparasites (geometric average = 0,8331 µmols/mL). This research contributes with relevant information about the haemosporidian occurence in raptors of State of São Paulo, alerting the Institutions about the necessity of monitorizing haemoprotozoa. Besides that, contributes with unpublished data about the plasmatic cholinesterase activity in raptors.

A criptosporidiose já foi descrita em várias espécies animais, incluindo várias espécies de aves. É considerada uma das principais infecções por protozoários em aves das ordens Anseriformes, Charadriformes, Columbiformes, Galliformes, Passeriformes, Psittaciformes e Struthioniformes. Três espécies de Cryptosporidium infectam aves: Cryptosporidium baileyi, Cryptosporidium galli e Cryptosporidium meleagridis, além de vários genótipos distintos geneticamente, como os genótipos I, II, III, IV e V de aves. Cryptosporidium galli e Cryptosporidium genótipo III de aves estão relacionados com infecções crônicas no proventrículo, de forma semelhante à infecção por Cryptosporidium serpentis, em serpentes. Vários métodos de diagnóstico são utilizados para detecção do parasito, mas somente aqueles com base em biologia molecular são capazes de determinar a espécie de Cryptosporidium. O projeto teve com objetivo o desenvolvimento da PCR duplex em tempo real, tendo como alvo o gene da subunidade 18S do rRNA, por meio de ensaio TaqMan, para detecção de DNA de C.galli e Cryptosporidium genótipo III de aves, e avaliar os atributos diagnósticos da PCR duplex em tempo real quando comparada à nested PCR, utilizando 1027 amostras fecais de aves das ordens Passeriformes e Psittaciformes. A PCR duplex em tempo real apresentou positividade em 580/1027 (56,47%) para C. galli, enquanto que a nested PCR resultou em positividade para Cryptosporidium spp. em 104/1027 (10,13%) amostras. Para Cryptosporidium genótipo III de aves, houve positividade em 21/1027 (2,04%). A PCR duplex em tempo real resultou em alta especificidade analítica quando foram utilizadas amostras de DNA de outras espécies e genótipos de Cryptosporidium. A única exceção foi a amplificação de DNA de C. serpentis, com a utilização de primers e sonda para detecção de Cryptosporidium genótipo III de aves, porém, com uma baixa eficiência de amplificação. Foram identificados novos hospedeiros aviários para ambas as espécies gástricas, assim como foi possível a identificação de C. baileyi e, pela primeira vez no Brasil, de Cryptosporidium genótipo V de aves. Conclui-se que a PCR duplex em tempo real desenvolvida neste estudo é um recurso que apresenta rapidez e confiabilidade para diagnóstico de criptosporidiose gástrica em aves Cryptosporidiosis has been described in several animal species, including many species of birds, and is considered a major protozoan infection of the orders Anseriformes, Charadriformes, Columbiformes, Galliformes, Passeriformes, Psittaciformes and Struthioniformes. Three species of Cryptosporidium are valid in birds: Cryptosporidium baileyi, Cryptosporidium meleagridis and Cryptosporidium galli; beside these species, there are several genotypes genetically distinct, as avian genotypes I, II, III, IV and V. Cryptosporidium galli and Cryptosporidium avian genotype III are related to chronic infections in proventriculus, similar to Cryptosporidium serpentis infection in snakes. Several methods are used for cryptosporidiosis diagnosis, but only those based on molecular biology are able to determine the Cryptosporidium species and genotypes. The aim of this project was the development of a duplex real-time PCR targeting 18S subunit of rRNA gene, by TaqMan assay, to detect DNA of C. galli and Cryptosporidium avian genotype III, and to evaluate the diagnostic attributes of the duplex real-time PCR compared to nested PCR, using 1027 fecal samples from birds of the orders Passeriformes and Psittaciformes. The duplex real time PCR showed positivity in 580/1027 (56.47%) for C. galli, whereas nested PCR was positive for Cryptosporidium spp. in 104/1027 (10.13%) samples. For Cryptosporidium avian genotype III, there was positivity in 21/1027 (2.04%) samples. The duplex real time PCR resulted in high analytical specificity when tested using DNA samples from other Cryptosporidium species and genotypes. The only exception was the amplification of DNA from C. serpentis with primers and probe for the detection of Cryptosporidium avian genotype III, although with lower efficiency. New avian hosts were identified for both gastric species, as well as it was possible to identify C. baileyi and, for the first time in Brazil, Cryptosporidium avian genotype V. It was concluded that the duplex real time PCR developed in this study is a fast and reliable tool for diagnosis of gastric cryptosporidiosis in birds.

Os Passeriformes compõem a maior ordem de aves do mundo. No Brasil, representam 55,52%, sendo os animais mais envolvidos no tráfico da fauna silvestre. Só no município de São Paulo são registradas aproximadamente 150 espécies. Embora componham um grupo importante e bem representativo, pouco se sabe sobre as causas de morbidade e mortalidade de Passeriformes de vida livre da fauna nacional. O presente estudo teve como objetivo identificar, caracterizar e comparar as causas de morte de Passeriformes de vida livre residentes na Região Metropolitana de São Paulo e Passeriformes oriundos do tráfico apreendidos na mesma localidade. Foram estudadas 149 aves, sendo 42,3% de vida livre e 57,7% oriundas do tráfico. As causas de morte nas aves provenientes de tráfico e de vida livre foram respectivamente iguais a 51,17% e 24,42% decorrentes a processos infecciosos; 34,92% e 42,86% a processos não infecciosos; 10,46% e 12,70% à suspeita de processos infecciosos e 13,95% e 9,52% à causas indeterminadas. Óbitos devido a processos infecciosos foram os mais predominantes entre os animais de tráfico, caracterizados principalmente por infecções mistas por agentes bacterianos e fúngicos, enquanto os processos não infecciosos, principalmente traumatismos, se destacaram entre aqueles de vida livre. Os resultados obtidos permitem atuar como importante ferramenta auxiliando e direcionando o atendimento clínico, diagnóstico e tratamento, além de gerar informações que contribuam com os programas de conservação in situ, como as solturas, hoje amplamente realizadas e ainda muito controversas. Passeriformes are the largest and most diverse avian order in the world. In Brazil, they are around 55,52% and most aimed in the illegal wildlife trade. There are 150 species in São Paulo city and surroundings. Although passerines are an important and very representative group, morbidity and mortality of brazilian free-living birds are unknown. The goal of this work was to identify, characterize and compare the causes of death of free-living Passeriformes in the São Paulo Metropolitan area and those from illegal wildlife trade in the same area. In the total of 149 birds studied, 42,3% was free-living and 57,7% from illegal trade. The causes of death of passerines from illegal wildlife trade and free-living are: infectious diseases (respectively, 51,17% and 24,42%); non-infectious diseases (34,92% and 42,86%); suspicious infeccious diseases (10,46% and 12,70%) and indeterminate causes (13,95% and 9,52%). Deaths due to infectious diseases were the majority among birds of illegal trade, mainly concomitant bacterial and fungic infections, while non-infectious diseases, specially trauma, were more predominant among the free-living ones. Obtained results play as an important tool helping and guiding clinic assistance, diagnosis and treatment, besides to contribute with conservation programs in situ, like releases, that are very frequent nowdays, but they are still controversial.