Acta tropica最新文献

Epidemiology of bluetongue virus infection among goat populations in central and western Thailand: Prevalence, risk factors, and serotype analysis

IF 2.1 3区医学 Q2 PARASITOLOGY

Acta tropica

Pub Date : 2025-02-18 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2025.107558

Thanyaporn Homat , Yuki Fujisawa , Chowalit Nakthong , Phirom Prompiram , Rassmeepen Phonaknguen , Tapanut Songkasupa , Pratana Satitvipawee , Kridsada Chaichoun , Kripitch Sutummaporn , Sudsaijai Kornmatitsuk , Bunlue Kornmatitsuk

The current status of bluetongue (BT) in Thailand remains unclear, and the serotypes of BT virus (BTV) have not been determined. This study aimed to 1) investigate the epidemiology of BTV infection among goat populations in central and western Thailand; 2) evaluate the test performance of conventional RT-PCR for BTV detection; and 3) identify the BTV serotypes presently circulating in the study area. The herd seroprevalence was 94.6 % (53/56, 95 % CI = 85.3–98.1), while the individual seroprevalence was 74.4 % (434/583, 95 % CI = 70.5–77.6). The odds of BTV infection were higher in goats in the western region (aOR = 10.16, 95 % CI = 5.02–20.55), with the presence of nearby ruminant farms (aOR = 2.21, 95 % CI = 1.23–4.00), and aged ≥3 years (aOR = 14.02, 95 % CI = 6.32–31.08) but lower in goats with an intensive rearing system (aOR = 0.18, 95 % CI = 0.09–0.39). For BTV detection, conventional RT-PCR presented 84.5 % sensitivity and 97.4 % specificity with an AUC of 0.910 (95 % CI = 0.852–0.967). Seven BTV serotypes (2, 3, 4, 7, 12, 16, and 21) were identified. Among these, BTV-2, 12, and 21 were the most prevalent, and BTV-4 was first detected in Southeast Asia. These results illustrated that BT is endemic and spreading widely among goat populations in the study area. Conventional RT-PCR developed in this study proved to be a reliable method for BTV detection. This research provides the first report of BTV serotype distribution in Thailand.

{"title":"Epidemiology of bluetongue virus infection among goat populations in central and western Thailand: Prevalence, risk factors, and serotype analysis","authors":"Thanyaporn Homat , Yuki Fujisawa , Chowalit Nakthong , Phirom Prompiram , Rassmeepen Phonaknguen , Tapanut Songkasupa , Pratana Satitvipawee , Kridsada Chaichoun , Kripitch Sutummaporn , Sudsaijai Kornmatitsuk , Bunlue Kornmatitsuk","doi":"10.1016/j.actatropica.2025.107558","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.actatropica.2025.107558","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The current status of bluetongue (BT) in Thailand remains unclear, and the serotypes of BT virus (BTV) have not been determined. This study aimed to 1) investigate the epidemiology of BTV infection among goat populations in central and western Thailand; 2) evaluate the test performance of conventional RT-PCR for BTV detection; and 3) identify the BTV serotypes presently circulating in the study area. The herd seroprevalence was 94.6 % (53/56, 95 % CI = 85.3–98.1), while the individual seroprevalence was 74.4 % (434/583, 95 % CI = 70.5–77.6). The odds of BTV infection were higher in goats in the western region (aOR = 10.16, 95 % CI = 5.02–20.55), with the presence of nearby ruminant farms (aOR = 2.21, 95 % CI = 1.23–4.00), and aged ≥3 years (aOR = 14.02, 95 % CI = 6.32–31.08) but lower in goats with an intensive rearing system (aOR = 0.18, 95 % CI = 0.09–0.39). For BTV detection, conventional RT-PCR presented 84.5 % sensitivity and 97.4 % specificity with an AUC of 0.910 (95 % CI = 0.852–0.967). Seven BTV serotypes (2, 3, 4, 7, 12, 16, and 21) were identified. Among these, BTV-2, 12, and 21 were the most prevalent, and BTV-4 was first detected in Southeast Asia. These results illustrated that BT is endemic and spreading widely among goat populations in the study area. Conventional RT-PCR developed in this study proved to be a reliable method for BTV detection. This research provides the first report of BTV serotype distribution in Thailand.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":7240,"journal":{"name":"Acta tropica","volume":"263 ","pages":"Article 107558"},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2025-02-18","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143437659","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

引用次数: 0

Disease burden of brucellosis among the elderly in Inner Mongolia, China: A cross-sectional data study from 2016 to 2020

IF 2.1 3区医学 Q2 PARASITOLOGY

Acta tropica

Pub Date : 2025-02-15 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2025.107556

Zhenjie Wu , Yifan Zhao , Yanling Li, Xinyan Wang, Xuemei Wang

Brucellosis is a zoonotic infection with an annually increasing incidence in the elderly. However, few research teams studied the brucellosis disease burden on this elderly population. This study assesses the brucellosis disease burden of elderly patients in Inner Mongolia, to explore its influencing factors, and provide a scientific basis for effectively reducing the disease burden in this demographic. This study described the disease burden of brucellosis in the elderly population in Inner Mongolia from 2016 to 2020. The incidence of brucellosis among the elderly showed an annually increasing trend, with concentrated incidences from April to July each year. The male and 60–69 age groups exhibit a high prevalence of brucellosis, while Xilingol, Ulanqab, and Hohhot exhibited high disease burdens. Meanwhile, Bayannur exhibited the fastest disease burden growth. Precipitation and the value of total pastoral production were positively correlated with the disease burden. In contrast, the sunshine duration, the number of health institutions, and GDP per capita exhibited negative correlations with the disease burden. The growing brucellosis incidence and disease burden among the elderly in Inner Mongolia is a serious issue. Relevant departments and agencies should focus on protecting the male population aged 60 to 69. Continuous attention should be directed to the western regions to prevent the emergence of new high-risk areas. Strengthening the rural healthcare system through increased medical personnel and financial investment is crucial to lowering the risk of brucellosis and alleviating its impact on the elderly population.

{"title":"Disease burden of brucellosis among the elderly in Inner Mongolia, China: A cross-sectional data study from 2016 to 2020","authors":"Zhenjie Wu , Yifan Zhao , Yanling Li, Xinyan Wang, Xuemei Wang","doi":"10.1016/j.actatropica.2025.107556","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.actatropica.2025.107556","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Brucellosis is a zoonotic infection with an annually increasing incidence in the elderly. However, few research teams studied the brucellosis disease burden on this elderly population. This study assesses the brucellosis disease burden of elderly patients in Inner Mongolia, to explore its influencing factors, and provide a scientific basis for effectively reducing the disease burden in this demographic. This study described the disease burden of brucellosis in the elderly population in Inner Mongolia from 2016 to 2020. The incidence of brucellosis among the elderly showed an annually increasing trend, with concentrated incidences from April to July each year. The male and 60–69 age groups exhibit a high prevalence of brucellosis, while Xilingol, Ulanqab, and Hohhot exhibited high disease burdens. Meanwhile, Bayannur exhibited the fastest disease burden growth. Precipitation and the value of total pastoral production were positively correlated with the disease burden. In contrast, the sunshine duration, the number of health institutions, and GDP per capita exhibited negative correlations with the disease burden. The growing brucellosis incidence and disease burden among the elderly in Inner Mongolia is a serious issue. Relevant departments and agencies should focus on protecting the male population aged 60 to 69. Continuous attention should be directed to the western regions to prevent the emergence of new high-risk areas. Strengthening the rural healthcare system through increased medical personnel and financial investment is crucial to lowering the risk of brucellosis and alleviating its impact on the elderly population.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":7240,"journal":{"name":"Acta tropica","volume":"263 ","pages":"Article 107556"},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2025-02-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143437479","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

引用次数: 0

Toxoplasma gondii in urban and rural bats from São Paulo state, Brazil

IF 2.1 3区医学 Q2 PARASITOLOGY

Acta tropica

Pub Date : 2025-02-13 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2025.107557

Danilo Alves de França, Benedito Donizete Menozzi, Helio Langoni

The aim of this study was to detect Toxoplasma gondii in organs of urban and rural bats from 17 cities in São Paulo, Brazil. A total of 203 bats, including insectivorous, frugivorous and hematophagous species, were collected from urban and rural areas between 2020 and 2022. DNA was extracted from heart and kidney samples and analyzed using real-time PCR as a screening method, followed by conventional PCR to obtain a viable product for genetic sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. In total, 14.8 % of the samples were positive in real-time PCR and 9.4 % were sequenced. Phylogenetic analysis indicated low genetic proximity between the sequences detected in bats and those associated with domestic species, suggesting that bats may be exposed to specific sources of infection in the wild. The lack of statistical association with variables such as feeding habits and type of shelter suggests that multiple environmental factors contribute to infection. This study emphasizes the potential role of bats as intermediate hosts in the T. gondii transmission cycle, acting as environmental sentinels and possibly as ecological vectors. These findings contribute to understanding the distribution of T. gondii in bat populations and its implications for public health, especially in vulnerable communities, where poor sanitation and close contact with farm animals increase the risk of zoonotic transmission.

{"title":"Toxoplasma gondii in urban and rural bats from São Paulo state, Brazil","authors":"Danilo Alves de França, Benedito Donizete Menozzi, Helio Langoni","doi":"10.1016/j.actatropica.2025.107557","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.actatropica.2025.107557","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The aim of this study was to detect <em>Toxoplasma gondii</em> in organs of urban and rural bats from 17 cities in São Paulo, Brazil. A total of 203 bats, including insectivorous, frugivorous and hematophagous species, were collected from urban and rural areas between 2020 and 2022. DNA was extracted from heart and kidney samples and analyzed using real-time PCR as a screening method, followed by conventional PCR to obtain a viable product for genetic sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. In total, 14.8 % of the samples were positive in real-time PCR and 9.4 % were sequenced. Phylogenetic analysis indicated low genetic proximity between the sequences detected in bats and those associated with domestic species, suggesting that bats may be exposed to specific sources of infection in the wild. The lack of statistical association with variables such as feeding habits and type of shelter suggests that multiple environmental factors contribute to infection. This study emphasizes the potential role of bats as intermediate hosts in the <em>T. gondii</em> transmission cycle, acting as environmental sentinels and possibly as ecological vectors. These findings contribute to understanding the distribution of <em>T. gondii</em> in bat populations and its implications for public health, especially in vulnerable communities, where poor sanitation and close contact with farm animals increase the risk of zoonotic transmission.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":7240,"journal":{"name":"Acta tropica","volume":"263 ","pages":"Article 107557"},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2025-02-13","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143424660","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

引用次数: 0

Natural infection with Trypanosoma cruzi and feeding habits of Triatominae (Hemiptera: Reduviidae) from the state of Durango, Mexico

IF 2.1 3区医学 Q2 PARASITOLOGY

Acta tropica

Pub Date : 2025-02-11 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2025.107555

Rosa Lilián Gómez-Palacios , Karina Ruiz-Tovar , Herón Huerta , Mario Octavio González-Reyes , Irma Padilla-Medina , Jorge Luis de-la-Rosa-Arana , Salvador Fonseca-Coronado

Chagas disease is a chronic and systemic condition caused by the protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi, acquired via abrasions or wounds on the skin or mucous membranes, through contact with feces or urine of hematophagous bugs belonging to the family Reduviidae, subfamily Triatominae. Many regions in Mexico are endemic for Chagas disease, but entomological and parasitological data are still limited. This study identified the incidence of natural infection with T. cruzi, as well as the feeding habits of the different species of triatomines circulating in the state of Durango, in the north-central region of Mexico. One hundred and ninety triatomines were taxonomically identified between February 2023 and May 2024 and a sample of intestinal content was obtained to identify the presence of T. cruzi by using microscopy and endpoint PCR. In addition, a 382 bp product of vertebrate cytochrome B (CytB) was amplified and sequenced to obtain the profile of feeding habits of this triatomines. Of the specimens collected, 121 were adults and 69 nymphs ranging from stage I to stage V. Of the collected adults, 115 were identified as Triatoma longipennis and 6 as Triatoma recurva. The specimens were collected both indoors (116) and in the peridomicile (74) showing a high overall percentage of positivity to natural infection with T.cruzi (54.5 %). Considering the total number of specimens collected, the colonization index was 36.32 %. In 27 of the 190 samples (14.22 %) CytB was amplified, revealing humans as the main feeding source for the triatomines. Our findings reveal that both species of triatomines were infected and predominantly found indoors, with humans as their primary feeding source. Comprehensive knowledge of the behavior of triatomine species that transmit T. cruzi allows their integrated control and the implementation of molecular tools for precise identification that strengthens the algorithms for epidemiological surveillance.

{"title":"Natural infection with Trypanosoma cruzi and feeding habits of Triatominae (Hemiptera: Reduviidae) from the state of Durango, Mexico","authors":"Rosa Lilián Gómez-Palacios , Karina Ruiz-Tovar , Herón Huerta , Mario Octavio González-Reyes , Irma Padilla-Medina , Jorge Luis de-la-Rosa-Arana , Salvador Fonseca-Coronado","doi":"10.1016/j.actatropica.2025.107555","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.actatropica.2025.107555","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Chagas disease is a chronic and systemic condition caused by the protozoan <em>Trypanosoma cruzi</em>, acquired via abrasions or wounds on the skin or mucous membranes, through contact with feces or urine of hematophagous bugs belonging to the family Reduviidae, subfamily Triatominae. Many regions in Mexico are endemic for Chagas disease, but entomological and parasitological data are still limited. This study identified the incidence of natural infection with <em>T. cruzi,</em> as well as the feeding habits of the different species of triatomines circulating in the state of Durango, in the north-central region of Mexico. One hundred and ninety triatomines were taxonomically identified between February 2023 and May 2024 and a sample of intestinal content was obtained to identify the presence of <em>T. cruzi</em> by using microscopy and endpoint PCR<em>.</em> In addition, a 382 bp product of vertebrate cytochrome B (CytB) was amplified and sequenced to obtain the profile of feeding habits of this triatomines. Of the specimens collected, 121 were adults and 69 nymphs ranging from stage I to stage V. Of the collected adults, 115 were identified as <em>Triatoma longipennis</em> and 6 as <em>Triatoma recurva</em>. The specimens were collected both indoors (116) and in the peridomicile (74) showing a high overall percentage of positivity to natural infection with <em>T.cruzi</em> (54.5 %). Considering the total number of specimens collected, the colonization index was 36.32 %. In 27 of the 190 samples (14.22 %) CytB was amplified, revealing humans as the main feeding source for the triatomines. Our findings reveal that both species of triatomines were infected and predominantly found indoors, with humans as their primary feeding source. Comprehensive knowledge of the behavior of triatomine species that transmit <em>T. cruzi</em> allows their integrated control and the implementation of molecular tools for precise identification that strengthens the algorithms for epidemiological surveillance.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":7240,"journal":{"name":"Acta tropica","volume":"263 ","pages":"Article 107555"},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2025-02-11","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143412849","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

引用次数: 0

Seasonal dynamics of Amblyomma ticks in South America: A meta-analytical approach

IF 2.1 3区医学 Q2 PARASITOLOGY

Acta tropica

Pub Date : 2025-02-11 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2025.107552

Rafael M. Nascimento , Renato C. Macedo-Rego , Ralph Maturano , Kátia M. Famadas

In this study, we carried out a detailed analysis of the seasonality of ticks of the genus Amblyomma in the Neotropical region by means of a meta-analysis. Our aim was to identify temporal patterns and factors that influence the seasonality of these ectoparasites, considering different developmental stages (larvae, nymphs and adults) to provide a comprehensive understanding of the population dynamics of this group. To do this, we carried out a systematic review in databases such as Scopus and Web of Science. Studies that assessed the prevalence, abundance, or seasonality of Amblyomma ticks in the Neotropical region were included in our data collection. Despite our focus on the Neotropics, we only obtained data on South American populations. Multilevel meta-analytical models were used to test whether larvae, nymphs and adults of Amblyomma ticks show higher mean abundance, mean intensity and prevalence in the dry or in the rainy season. Our results validate that Amblyomma larvae, nymphs, and adults show distinct patterns of seasonality. During the dry season, larvae and nymphs occur more frequently, while adults predominate in the rainy season. We also observed variations in seasonal occurrence at the species level, highlighting the complexity and variability of these patterns. Thus, in summary, the data we provide here contributes to a better understanding on the temporal distribution of these ectoparasites, as well as the factors contributing for such distribution, thus providing subsidies for the development of more effective strategies for the control and prevention of tick-borne diseases. By showing research gaps in the literature, we also argue that further research on the seasonal patterns of ticks is needed to improve our understanding of the factors that influence the population dynamics of these parasites and to implementing more effective public health measures.

{"title":"Seasonal dynamics of Amblyomma ticks in South America: A meta-analytical approach","authors":"Rafael M. Nascimento , Renato C. Macedo-Rego , Ralph Maturano , Kátia M. Famadas","doi":"10.1016/j.actatropica.2025.107552","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.actatropica.2025.107552","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>In this study, we carried out a detailed analysis of the seasonality of ticks of the genus <em>Amblyomma</em> in the Neotropical region by means of a meta-analysis. Our aim was to identify temporal patterns and factors that influence the seasonality of these ectoparasites, considering different developmental stages (larvae, nymphs and adults) to provide a comprehensive understanding of the population dynamics of this group. To do this, we carried out a systematic review in databases such as <em>Scopus</em> and <em>Web of Science</em>. Studies that assessed the prevalence, abundance, or seasonality of <em>Amblyomma</em> ticks in the Neotropical region were included in our data collection. Despite our focus on the Neotropics, we only obtained data on South American populations. Multilevel meta-analytical models were used to test whether larvae, nymphs and adults of <em>Amblyomma</em> ticks show higher mean abundance, mean intensity and prevalence in the dry or in the rainy season. Our results validate that <em>Amblyomma</em> larvae, nymphs, and adults show distinct patterns of seasonality. During the dry season, larvae and nymphs occur more frequently, while adults predominate in the rainy season. We also observed variations in seasonal occurrence at the species level, highlighting the complexity and variability of these patterns. Thus, in summary, the data we provide here contributes to a better understanding on the temporal distribution of these ectoparasites, as well as the factors contributing for such distribution, thus providing subsidies for the development of more effective strategies for the control and prevention of tick-borne diseases. By showing research gaps in the literature, we also argue that further research on the seasonal patterns of ticks is needed to improve our understanding of the factors that influence the population dynamics of these parasites and to implementing more effective public health measures.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":7240,"journal":{"name":"Acta tropica","volume":"263 ","pages":"Article 107552"},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2025-02-11","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143412913","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

引用次数: 0

Molecular evidence of Bartonella spp. in biting midges of the genus Culicoides Latreille (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) from Brazil

IF 2.1 3区医学 Q2 PARASITOLOGY

Acta tropica

Pub Date : 2025-02-10 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2025.107553

Paulo Vitor Cadina Arantes , Israel de Souza Pinto , Maria Clara Alves Santarém , Maria Luiza Felippe-Bauer , Daniel Antônio Braga Lee , Rosangela Zacarias Machado , Marcos Rogério André

Bartonella spp. are typical vector-borne pathogens, whose transmission has been primarily associated with a wide variety of hematophagous arthropods. These bacteria are responsible for several clinical syndromes in both humans and animals. The present study aimed to investigate the occurrence and molecular identity of Bartonella spp. in 345 specimens of Culicoides Latreille from the Brazilian Amazon. Out of 345 Culicoides specimens collected in the Amazon National Park, state of Pará, northern Brazil, 86.7 % (299/345) were positive for the endogenous cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 gene. We detected a 24 % (72/299) prevalence rate for Bartonella spp. using a quantitative real-time PCR targeting the 16S-23S rRNA internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region. Culicoides foxi was statistically more associated with Bartonella positivity when compared to C. hylas and C. leopoldoi. Culicoides specimens collected at the ground level were more associated with positivity for Bartonella spp. when compared to those collected at the canopy. Further molecular characterization was performed using conventional PCR assays targeting seven molecular markers (nuoG, gltA, groEL, ftsZ, rpoB, pap31, and ribC). The BLASTn analysis revealed four gltA sequences with 99.72–100 % identity to Bartonella bovis previously detected in cattle from Brazil. One ribC sequence showed 100 % identity to Bartonella henselae previously detected in a cat from Germany. Six pap31 sequences showed 90–91 % identity to a Bartonella sp. sequence previously detected in a bat (Carollia perspicillata) from Brazil. This study represents the first molecular evidence of Bartonella spp. DNA in biting midges and contributes to understanding their role in the epidemiological cycles of these agents.

{"title":"Molecular evidence of Bartonella spp. in biting midges of the genus Culicoides Latreille (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) from Brazil","authors":"Paulo Vitor Cadina Arantes , Israel de Souza Pinto , Maria Clara Alves Santarém , Maria Luiza Felippe-Bauer , Daniel Antônio Braga Lee , Rosangela Zacarias Machado , Marcos Rogério André","doi":"10.1016/j.actatropica.2025.107553","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.actatropica.2025.107553","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div><em>Bartonella</em> spp. are typical vector-borne pathogens, whose transmission has been primarily associated with a wide variety of hematophagous arthropods. These bacteria are responsible for several clinical syndromes in both humans and animals. The present study aimed to investigate the occurrence and molecular identity of <em>Bartonella</em> spp. in 345 specimens of <em>Culicoides</em> Latreille from the Brazilian Amazon. Out of 345 <em>Culicoides</em> specimens collected in the Amazon National Park, state of Pará, northern Brazil, 86.7 % (299/345) were positive for the endogenous cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 gene. We detected a 24 % (72/299) prevalence rate for <em>Bartonella</em> spp. using a quantitative real-time PCR targeting the 16S-23S rRNA internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region. <em>Culicoides foxi</em> was statistically more associated with <em>Bartonella</em> positivity when compared to <em>C. hylas</em> and C. <em>leopoldoi. Culicoides</em> specimens collected at the ground level were more associated with positivity for <em>Bartonella</em> spp. when compared to those collected at the canopy. Further molecular characterization was performed using conventional PCR assays targeting seven molecular markers (<em>nuoG, gltA, groEL, ftsZ, rpoB, pap31</em>, and <em>ribC</em>). The BLASTn analysis revealed four <em>gltA</em> sequences with 99.72–100 % identity to <em>Bartonella bovis</em> previously detected in cattle from Brazil. One <em>ribC</em> sequence showed 100 % identity to <em>Bartonella henselae</em> previously detected in a cat from Germany. Six <em>pap31</em> sequences showed 90–91 % identity to a <em>Bartonella</em> sp. sequence previously detected in a bat (<em>Carollia perspicillata</em>) from Brazil. This study represents the first molecular evidence of <em>Bartonella</em> spp. DNA in biting midges and contributes to understanding their role in the epidemiological cycles of these agents.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":7240,"journal":{"name":"Acta tropica","volume":"263 ","pages":"Article 107553"},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2025-02-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143405224","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

引用次数: 0

Viral metagenomics of hematophagous insects collected in the Carajas mining complex, Pará State, Brazil

IF 2.1 3区医学 Q2 PARASITOLOGY

Acta tropica

Pub Date : 2025-02-10 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2025.107551

Camila Margalho Braga , Sandro Patroca da Silva , Joaquim Pinto Nunes Neto , Daniele Barbosa de Almeida Medeiros , Ana Cecília Ribeiro Cruz , Bruna Laís Sena do Nascimento , Lucas Rafael Santana Pinheiro , Lívia Carício Martins

Hematophagous insects are vectors of viruses that cause diseases in humans and animals worldwide. Mosquitoes (Culicidae), biting midges (Ceratopogonidae), and sandflies (Psychodidae) were collected in three municipalities (Marabá, Canaã dos Carajás, and Curionópolis) in the state of Pará, Brazil, in 2019. Morphological keys were used for the taxonomic identification of insect species. High-throughput sequencing and metagenomic analysis were employed to characterize the viromes of the hematophagous insects. We characterized the virome of 839 insects grouped into 14 pools. A total of 729 million paired reads were generated, with 12 million viral sequences (3 % of the reads). The families Reoviridae, Myoviridae, Retroviridae, and Poxviridae were found in all samples of this study. Phylogenies of RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) from viruses of the families Chuviridae, Dicistroviridae, Flaviviridae, Iflaviridae, Mesoniviridae, Phenuiviridae, and Rhabdoviridae were performed. In this study, the first isolation of the Guaico Culex Virus (GCXV) in the northern region of Brazil was obtained from a pool of Culex (Melanoconion) spp. mosquitoes collected in Curionópolis. The data obtained in this study demonstrate that the Carajás region has an ecosystem rich in viruses. Additional studies are needed to understand the dynamics of viruses in vectors, vertebrates, and the human population in the region.

{"title":"Viral metagenomics of hematophagous insects collected in the Carajas mining complex, Pará State, Brazil","authors":"Camila Margalho Braga , Sandro Patroca da Silva , Joaquim Pinto Nunes Neto , Daniele Barbosa de Almeida Medeiros , Ana Cecília Ribeiro Cruz , Bruna Laís Sena do Nascimento , Lucas Rafael Santana Pinheiro , Lívia Carício Martins","doi":"10.1016/j.actatropica.2025.107551","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.actatropica.2025.107551","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Hematophagous insects are vectors of viruses that cause diseases in humans and animals worldwide. Mosquitoes (<em>Culicidae</em>), biting midges (<em>Ceratopogonidae</em>), and sandflies (<em>Psychodidae</em>) were collected in three municipalities (Marabá, Canaã dos Carajás, and Curionópolis) in the state of Pará, Brazil, in 2019. Morphological keys were used for the taxonomic identification of insect species. High-throughput sequencing and metagenomic analysis were employed to characterize the viromes of the hematophagous insects. We characterized the virome of 839 insects grouped into 14 pools. A total of 729 million paired reads were generated, with 12 million viral sequences (3 % of the reads). The families <em>Reoviridae, Myoviridae, Retroviridae</em>, and <em>Poxviridae</em> were found in all samples of this study. Phylogenies of RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) from viruses of the families <em>Chuviridae, Dicistroviridae, Flaviviridae, Iflaviridae, Mesoniviridae, Phenuiviridae,</em> and <em>Rhabdoviridae</em> were performed. In this study, the first isolation of the <em>Guaico Culex Virus</em> (GCXV) in the northern region of Brazil was obtained from a pool of <em>Culex (Melanoconion)</em> spp. mosquitoes collected in Curionópolis. The data obtained in this study demonstrate that the Carajás region has an ecosystem rich in viruses. Additional studies are needed to understand the dynamics of viruses in vectors, vertebrates, and the human population in the region.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":7240,"journal":{"name":"Acta tropica","volume":"263 ","pages":"Article 107551"},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2025-02-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143405247","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

引用次数: 0

Accuracy of diagnostic tests for feline sporotrichosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis

IF 2.1 3区医学 Q2 PARASITOLOGY

Acta tropica

Pub Date : 2025-02-09 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2025.107549

Eric L Domingos , Dalton A Souza , Fernando M S Alves , Daniela Gorski , Fernanda S Tonin , Luana M Ferreira , Roberto Pontarolo

Background

Feline sporotrichosis is a subcutaneous infection caused by fungi of the Sporothrix genus, particularly concerning in endemic regions of South America, where cats are important vectors. Traditional diagnosis through fungal culture is time-consuming, which can delay the start of treatment.

Objective

Our goal was to synthesize the evidence on the accuracy of alternative diagnostic methods for feline sporotrichosis.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted following the Cochrane Collaboration recommendations and the PRISMA-DTA checklist (CRD42023456520). Searches for observational studies were performed in PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science. Using a random-effects model, bivariate meta-analysis was employed to estimate combined sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) with 95 % confidence intervals. The results were presented in forest plots and Summary Receiver Operating Characteristic (SROC) curves; heterogeneity was assessed using Tau² and I² statistics (R-software).

Results

Eight studies, totaling 1,920 cats, evaluated five diagnostic methods. PCR tests had the highest accuracy (90 % sensitivity, 94 % specificity, area under the curve 0.950), while cytological methods demonstrated moderate diagnostic accuracy (89 %, 22 % and 0.879, respectively). The findings highlight the need for faster, more accurate, and cost-effective diagnostic alternatives, especially in resource-limited regions, and underscore the importance of advancing techniques to improve early detection and treatment of sporotrichosis.

{"title":"Accuracy of diagnostic tests for feline sporotrichosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis","authors":"Eric L Domingos , Dalton A Souza , Fernando M S Alves , Daniela Gorski , Fernanda S Tonin , Luana M Ferreira , Roberto Pontarolo","doi":"10.1016/j.actatropica.2025.107549","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.actatropica.2025.107549","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Feline sporotrichosis is a subcutaneous infection caused by fungi of the <em>Sporothrix</em> genus, particularly concerning in endemic regions of South America, where cats are important vectors. Traditional diagnosis through fungal culture is time-consuming, which can delay the start of treatment.</div></div><div><h3>Objective</h3><div>Our goal was to synthesize the evidence on the accuracy of alternative diagnostic methods for feline sporotrichosis.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A systematic review was conducted following the Cochrane Collaboration recommendations and the PRISMA-DTA checklist (CRD42023456520). Searches for observational studies were performed in PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science. Using a random-effects model, bivariate meta-analysis was employed to estimate combined sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) with 95 % confidence intervals. The results were presented in forest plots and Summary Receiver Operating Characteristic (SROC) curves; heterogeneity was assessed using Tau² and I² statistics (R-software).</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Eight studies, totaling 1,920 cats, evaluated five diagnostic methods. PCR tests had the highest accuracy (90 % sensitivity, 94 % specificity, area under the curve 0.950), while cytological methods demonstrated moderate diagnostic accuracy (89 %, 22 % and 0.879, respectively). The findings highlight the need for faster, more accurate, and cost-effective diagnostic alternatives, especially in resource-limited regions, and underscore the importance of advancing techniques to improve early detection and treatment of sporotrichosis.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":7240,"journal":{"name":"Acta tropica","volume":"263 ","pages":"Article 107549"},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2025-02-09","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143387070","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

引用次数: 0

Metabolomic analysis of larval stages of Onchocerca japonica (Spirurida: Onchocercidae), raised in black fly (Diptera: Simuliidae) vectors, by gas chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry 利用气相色谱-串联质谱法对在黑蝇（双翅目：蚋科）载体中饲养的日本盘尾丝虫（螺旋体：盘尾丝虫科）幼虫阶段进行代谢组学分析。

IF 2.1 3区医学 Q2 PARASITOLOGY

Acta tropica

Pub Date : 2025-02-09 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2025.107541

Masako Fukuda , Yasushi Otsuka , Kumiko Sakai , Shigehiko Uni , Kerstin Junker , Atiporn Saeung , Wichai Srisuka , Hiroyuki Takaoka

To monitor and prevent the spread of zoonotic onchocerciasis, identification of the natural vectors (blood-sucking insects) of its causative agents, Onchocerca species, is crucial. To date, vector identification depends on the detection of infective third-stage larvae in insects by traditional dissection. We aimed to develop a novel, more efficient method for the discrimination of the four larval stages, i.e. microfilariae (Mf), first-stage larvae (L1), second-stage larvae (L2), and third-stage larvae (L3), of O. japonica by metabolomic analysis. Microfilariae of O. japonica, the causative agent of zoonotic onchocerciasis in Japan, were obtained from skin snips of wild boars and injected into newly-emerged black flies (Diptera: Simuliidae) to enable further larval development. Metabolites obtained from Mf, L1, L2, and L3 were analyzed using a gas chromatography-tandem mass spectrometer. Multivariate analysis of the data of metabolites showed the complete separation of the four larval stages. The highest level of acetoacetic acid and hydroxylamine was found in Mf and L3, respectively. Consequently, we propose that hydroxylamine is a potential marker to detect infective larvae of O. japonica in natural infections and could be a valuable tool in vector surveys, transmission studies and epidemiological surveys.

{"title":"Metabolomic analysis of larval stages of Onchocerca japonica (Spirurida: Onchocercidae), raised in black fly (Diptera: Simuliidae) vectors, by gas chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry","authors":"Masako Fukuda , Yasushi Otsuka , Kumiko Sakai , Shigehiko Uni , Kerstin Junker , Atiporn Saeung , Wichai Srisuka , Hiroyuki Takaoka","doi":"10.1016/j.actatropica.2025.107541","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.actatropica.2025.107541","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>To monitor and prevent the spread of zoonotic onchocerciasis, identification of the natural vectors (blood-sucking insects) of its causative agents, <em>Onchocerca</em> species, is crucial. To date, vector identification depends on the detection of infective third-stage larvae in insects by traditional dissection. We aimed to develop a novel, more efficient method for the discrimination of the four larval stages, i.e. microfilariae (Mf), first-stage larvae (L1), second-stage larvae (L2), and third-stage larvae (L3), of <em>O. japonica</em> by metabolomic analysis. Microfilariae of <em>O. japonica</em>, the causative agent of zoonotic onchocerciasis in Japan, were obtained from skin snips of wild boars and injected into newly-emerged black flies (Diptera: Simuliidae) to enable further larval development. Metabolites obtained from Mf, L1, L2, and L3 were analyzed using a gas chromatography-tandem mass spectrometer. Multivariate analysis of the data of metabolites showed the complete separation of the four larval stages. The highest level of acetoacetic acid and hydroxylamine was found in Mf and L3, respectively. Consequently, we propose that hydroxylamine is a potential marker to detect infective larvae of <em>O. japonica</em> in natural infections and could be a valuable tool in vector surveys, transmission studies and epidemiological surveys.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":7240,"journal":{"name":"Acta tropica","volume":"263 ","pages":"Article 107541"},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2025-02-09","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143397751","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

引用次数: 0

Insights into spatio-temporal dynamics of Anopheles vectors while approaching malaria elimination along the Thailand-Cambodia border

IF 2.1 3区医学 Q2 PARASITOLOGY

Acta tropica

Pub Date : 2025-02-09 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2025.107545

Manop Saeung , Natapong Jupatanakul , Aneta Afelt , Kittitat Suksirisawat , Suthat Lhaosudto , Alex Ahebwa , Jeffrey Hii , Sylvie Manguin , Theeraphap Chareonviriyaphap

The international borders of Thailand are well recognized as areas with high malaria transmission risk. Although Sisaket Province, bordering Cambodia, is recognized as a malaria-prone area, major progress towards malaria elimination has been made. In fact, this province was ranked as having high malaria incidence in Thailand decades ago, increasing its potential for malaria re-establishment. To devise a re-establishment strategy, this work investigated the spatio-temporal dynamics of Anopheles and examined the malariogenic potential of villages in Sisaket Province. Human landing catches (HLCs) were recorded to collect adult mosquitoes from village and rubber-forest ecotypes between 18.00 and 06.00 h. The collection was conducted for two years based on four consecutive nights per season in the rainy, cool-dry, and hot-dry seasons during July 2022–March 2024, for a total of 24 nights. Based on the results, Anopheles dirus s.s. was the primary malaria vector and predominant in the rubber-forest areas, where positive larval habitats were found. Its biting peaks were observed between 21.00 and 22.00 h across seasons and years. The abundance of An. dirus was correlated positively with the amount of rainfall at two months (R = 0.89) and three months (R = 0.95) after the rainfall. Therefore, public health interventions to prevent outdoor biting should target rubber tappers and forest-goers two–three months after the rainy season. In addition, risk assessment of malaria re-establishment suggested a high potential based on the malariogenic potential scores. Thus, ongoing action is important to control any re-establishment to achieve sustainable malaria elimination in Sisaket Province.

{"title":"Insights into spatio-temporal dynamics of Anopheles vectors while approaching malaria elimination along the Thailand-Cambodia border","authors":"Manop Saeung , Natapong Jupatanakul , Aneta Afelt , Kittitat Suksirisawat , Suthat Lhaosudto , Alex Ahebwa , Jeffrey Hii , Sylvie Manguin , Theeraphap Chareonviriyaphap","doi":"10.1016/j.actatropica.2025.107545","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.actatropica.2025.107545","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The international borders of Thailand are well recognized as areas with high malaria transmission risk. Although Sisaket Province, bordering Cambodia, is recognized as a malaria-prone area, major progress towards malaria elimination has been made. In fact, this province was ranked as having high malaria incidence in Thailand decades ago, increasing its potential for malaria re-establishment. To devise a re-establishment strategy, this work investigated the spatio-temporal dynamics of <em>Anopheles</em> and examined the malariogenic potential of villages in Sisaket Province. Human landing catches (HLCs) were recorded to collect adult mosquitoes from village and rubber-forest ecotypes between 18.00 and 06.00 h. The collection was conducted for two years based on four consecutive nights per season in the rainy, cool-dry, and hot-dry seasons during July 2022–March 2024, for a total of 24 nights. Based on the results, <em>Anopheles dirus</em> s.s. was the primary malaria vector and predominant in the rubber-forest areas, where positive larval habitats were found. Its biting peaks were observed between 21.00 and 22.00 h across seasons and years. The abundance of <em>An. dirus</em> was correlated positively with the amount of rainfall at two months (<em>R</em> = 0.89) and three months (<em>R</em> = 0.95) after the rainfall. Therefore, public health interventions to prevent outdoor biting should target rubber tappers and forest-goers two–three months after the rainy season. In addition, risk assessment of malaria re-establishment suggested a high potential based on the malariogenic potential scores. Thus, ongoing action is important to control any re-establishment to achieve sustainable malaria elimination in Sisaket Province.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":7240,"journal":{"name":"Acta tropica","volume":"263 ","pages":"Article 107545"},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2025-02-09","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143397750","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

引用次数: 0