Abstract Introduction: Echinoderms are strictly aquatic animals and one of the groups of marine invertebrates whose ecological importance is crucial for the environments where they inhabit. The most outstanding characteristic is their pentaradial symmetry. These organisms can be distributed in a wide variety of oceanic environments, and are not exclusive inhabitants of reef formations. A total of 1 539 species have been registered, of which 717 belong to the Pacific and 60 of them have been registered for El Salvador. Objective: The objective of the work was to record the richness and density of echinoderm species in rocky reefs of Punta Amapala (La Unión). Methods: The sampling was conducted in five sites, two of them at 3 m of depth and three at 6 m. For this, snorkeling and autonomous diving were used, covering two band transects of 30 x 1 m. Within the transects, the identification (richness) and counting (abundance) of the organisms was carried out. Results: The species that presented the highest density at 3 m reefs was Echinometra vanbrunti (0.83 indv/m2), followed by the ophiuroid Ophiocomella alexandri (0.16 indv/m2) and Ophiocoma aethiops (0.16 indv/m2). And at the 6 m reefs were Ophiothela mirabilis (0.83 indv/m2), Ophionereis annulata (0.21 indv/m2), Ophiothrix rudis (0.08 indv/m2) and Ophiocomella alexandri (0.01 indv/m2). Conclusions: These organisms fulfill various ecological roles, such as being bioindicators of water quality by tolerating certain changes in physicochemical conditions and fulfilling the role of macrofauna hosts due to the cavities formed by some sea urchins. That is why sampling efforts must increase in these areas to monitor the quality and health of the rocky reefs, whose role is key, as they are, together with Los Cóbanos, the largest in the country.

Resumen Introducción: Los equinodermos son animales estrictamente acuáticos y de los grupos de invertebrados marinos cuya importancia ecológica es crucial para los ambientes en donde habitan. La característica más destacada es su simetría pentarradial. Estos organismos pueden distribuirse en una amplia variedad de ambientes oceánicos, y no ser exclusivamente habitantes de las formaciones arrecifales. Se han registrado el total de 1 539 especies, de las cuales 717 pertenecen a Pacífico y 60 de ellas se han registrado en El Salvador. Objetivo: El objetivo del trabajo fue registrar la riqueza y densidad de especies de equinodermos en arrecifes rocosos de Punta Amapala (La Unión). Métodos: El muestreo fue llevado a cabo en cinco sitios, dos a 3 m de profundidad y tres a 6 m. Para esto, se utilizó snorkeling y buceo autónomo, recorriendo dos transectos de banda de 30 x 1 m. Dentro de los transectos, se realizó la identificación (riqueza) y contabilización (abundancia) de los organismos. Resultados: La especie que presentó mayor densidad en los arrecifes de 3 m fue Echinometra vanbrunti (0.83 indv/m2), seguido por el ofiuroideo Ophiocomella alexandri (0.16 indv/m2) y Ophiocoma aethiops (0.16 indv/m2). Y en los arrecifes a 6 m fueron Ophiothela mirabilis (0.83 indv/m2), Ophionereis annulata (0.21 indv/m2), Ophiothrix rudis (0.08 indv/m2) y Ophiocomella alexandri (0.01 indv/m2). Conclusiones: Estos organismos, cumplen con diversos roles ecológicos, como ser bioindicadores de calidad de agua al tolerar ciertos cambios en las condiciones físico-químicas, así como cumplir el papel de hospederos de macrofauna por las cavidades que forman algunos erizos. Es por ello que los esfuerzos de muestreo deben incrementarse en estas zonas para monitorear la calidad y salud de los arrecifes rocosos, cuyo papel es clave, por ser junto con Los Cóbanos, los de mayor extensión en el país.

Resumen Introducción: El endoparásito Dendrogaster argentinensis infecta a la estrella de mar Anasterias antarctica, especie que se encuentra en el nivel trófico más alto del Canal Beagle. Objetivo: Estudiar los efectos del parasitismo de D. argentinensis en la condición fisiológica y reproducción de A. antarctica. Métodos: Adultos de la estrella de mar incubadora fueron recogidos del intermareal rocoso de la bahía Ensenada Zaratiegui (54°51’ S & 68°29’ W). Se realizaron ocho muestreos estacionales (cuatro temporadas en dos años) en el intermareal superior y bajo. Durante la disección, se removieron los parásitos, y todos los órganos, los cuales fueron pesados por separado. Resultados: La prevalencia de D. argentinensis fue la más alta de la región (20.4 %). Los individuos parasitados fueron más frecuentes en el intermareal bajo en todas las estaciones, siendo la mayor diferencia en verano, donde es probable que las temperaturas más altas y los fuertes vientos puedan hacer que el intermareal superior sea más desafiante para un individuo parasitado. Se observaron cinco individuos parasitados que estaban castrados. Generalmente, los índices gonadales (GI) y somáticos (ciego pilórico, estómago, y pared del cuerpo) fueron menores en los individuos parasitados que no parasitados. Conclusiones: El parasitismo de D. argentinensis afecta negativamente la condición fisiológica de A. antarctica. Afecta a la reproducción en términos de bajo GI y puede causar castración. El parásito compite por los recursos energéticos de las estrellas de mar, disminuyendo también la capacidad del individuo para alimentarse (reducción del estómago) y crecer (reducción de la pared del cuerpo).

Abstract Introduction: The endoparasite Dendrogaster argentinensis infects the intertidal brooder sea star Anasterias antarctica. This sea-star species is in the highest trophic level in the Beagle Channel. Objective: To study the effects of parasitism by D. argentinensis on the fitness and reproduction of A. antarctica. Methods: Adults from the brooder sea-star were collected from the rocky intertidal of Ensenada Zaratiegui bay (54°51’ S & 68°29’ W), Argentina. Eight seasonal samplings were performed (four seasons in two years) in the upper and low intertidal. During dissection, parasites were removed, and all organs were extracted and weighed separately. Results: Dendrogaster argentinensis prevalence was the highest for the region (20.4 %). Parasitized individuals were more frequent in the low intertidal in all seasons, with a higher difference in summer, where it is likely that the higher temperatures and strong winds could make the upper intertidal more challenging for a parasitized individual. Five parasitized individuals were castrated. Generally, the gonadal (GI) and somatic (pyloric caeca, PCI; stomach, SI; body wall, WI) indexes were lower in parasitized than non-parasitized individuals. Conclusions: Parasitism by D. argentinensis negatively affects A. antarctica condition. It affects reproduction because it reduces the GI, and can also produce castration. The parasite competes for the sea-stars’ energetic resources, also decreasing the individual’s capacity for feeding (reduced stomach) and growth (reduced body wall).

Resumo Introdução: A prevalência da infeção pelo vírus da imunodeficiência humana (VIH) parece haver estabilizado nos 0,7%, enquanto em alguns países continua a aumentar. Durante muitos anos estava apenas associada ao continente africano e a populações específicas, mas atualmente constata-se um aumento de incidência nos países desenvolvidos. Esta infeção pode ser assintomática ou ter sintomas inespecíficos. Estes dependem do estádio da doença, da carga viral ou do estado imune do hospedeiro. Este caso mostra o desafio do diagnóstico de VIH, relatando uma forma de apresentação sintomática rara. Descrição do caso: Homem de 21 anos de idade, de nacionalidade angolana, que recorre à consulta aberta nos cuidados de saúde primários por quedas frequentes no último mês associadas a sensação de falta de força nos membros inferiores. À avaliação física constata-se uma discreta diminuição global da força nas quatro extremidades, com maior tradução no membro superior esquerdo. Nega práticas sexuais de risco ou consumo de drogas parenterais. Após realização de estudo analítico, estudo eletromiográfico e tomografia computorizada crânio-encefálica, da coluna cervical e lombar, constata-se um resultado positivo para a infeção por VIH como a causa desencadeante da sintomatologia apresentada. Comentário: O que inicialmente pareciam sintomas relacionados com uma doença neuromuscular incipiente veio a revelar-se o diagnóstico de uma infeção vírica. Pela inespecificidade dos seus sintomas é importante manter um elevado nível de suspeição para a infeção por VIH. No caso relatado, a neuropatia periférica era a única manifestação desta infeção. Ainda que tenha uma prevalência de até 60% entre os infetados, é rara como manifestação isolada. A sua etiopatologia não é ainda clara, sabe-se que é multifatorial e progressiva. Presentemente o doente encontra-se estável com o início da terapêutica antirretroviral, com melhoria da sintomatologia.

Abstract Introduction: The prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection seems to be stabilized at 0.7% but in some countries, it continues to rise. For many years it was only associated with the African continent and specific populations, but today there is an increase in the incidence in developed countries. This infection can be asymptomatic or have non-specific symptoms. Those depend on the stage of the disease, the viral load, or the host’s immune status. This case shows how the diagnosis of HIV remains a real challenge, reporting a rare form of symptomatic presentation. Case description: A 21-year-old male, with Angolan nationality, went to primary health care consultation due to frequent falls in the last month associated with a sensation of lack of strength in the lower limbs. During physical evaluation, a discrete global reduction of strength in the four extremities was noted, most markedly in the left upper limb. The patient denied risky sexual practices or parenteral drug consumption. After carrying out complementary analytical studies, an electromyographic study, and computed tomography of the brain, cervical, and lumbar spine, the results came back positive for HIV infection as the cause of the presented symptoms. Comment: What at first seemed to be symptoms related to an incipient neuromuscular disease turned out to be the diagnosis of a viral infection. Due to the nonspecificity of the symptoms, it is important to maintain a high level of suspicion of HIV infection. In this case, peripheral neuropathy was the only manifestation reported. Although it has a prevalence of up to 60% among the infected, it is rare as an isolated sign. Its aetiopathology is still unclear, but it is known to be multifactorial and progressive. Nowadays the patient is stable after the initiation of antiretroviral therapy, with improvement in symptomology.

Zimbabwe hosts a varied array of coloured gemstones. With the exception of emerald deposits and several world-class pegmatites, few of the gemstone occurrences have received detailed attention from the scientific or mineral exploration communities. In the present contribution we summarize the status of knowledge of the gemstone deposits and occurrences in Zimbabwe, paying particular attention to the geological settings in which they were formed. Synthesis of this regional geological approach reveals that there may be significant exploration potential for further gemstone occurrences, particularly in the extensive pegmatite fields and in Al-enriched orogenic belts that have undergone greenschist to granulite facies metamorphism. Further socio-economic and developmental initiatives will aid in optimizing the value generation from this important sub-sector.

Resumo Mancha-de-Bipolaris é uma das mais importantes doenças foliares do milho. Estratégias de manejo adequadas e o uso de cultivar resistente permitem o controle da doença, mas para tanto, conhecer os aspectos associados ao patógeno e a resposta do hospedeiro é necessário para traçar estratégias eficientes para seleção de genótipos resistentes a essa doença. Neste sentido, objetivou-se realizar a caracterização do isolado de Bipolaris maydis avaliando a patogenicidade em diferentes linhagens de milho-pipoca e os sintomas gerados no hospedeiro a partir da inoculação. A caracterização do isolado consistiu na avaliação macromorfológica das colônias e micromofológica dos conídios em meio nutritivo BDA. Para avaliação da patogenicidade do isolado foi conduzido um experimento em casa de vegetação utilizando 20 linhagens endogâmicas de milho-pipoca, com delineamento em blocos casualizados, com quatro repetições. A inoculação foi realizada por meio de pulverização em folhas, com uma suspensão contendo 1,0 x 104 conídios.ml-1 do isolado CF/UENF 501 de B. maydis. Foi realizada uma avaliação de incidência e três avaliações de severidade dos sintomas da doença, com o intervalo de sete dias para cada avaliação. Os dados da caracterização morfológica do isolado foram analisados por meio da estatística descritiva e para severidade da doença foi aplicado o modelo de regressão linear de primeiro grau. Realizou-se a análise de variância para o coeficiente linear e angular obtido para cada tratamento e quando constatada diferença aplicou-se o agrupamento de médias de Scott-knott a 5% de significância. O isolado apresentou colônias com coloração cinza esverdeado, aspecto algodonoso e forma irregular. As linhagens L353 e L354 e L624 estão entre as linhagens que apresentaram maior resistência no inicio e ao longo das avaliações. A elevada virulência do isolado CF/UENF 501 possibilitou diferenciar as linhagens quanto a intensidade da doença, bem como o padrão dos sintomas apresentados.

Abstract Southern corn leaf blight (SCLB) is one of the most important corn leaf diseases. Appropriate management strategies and the use of resistant cultivars allow disease control. Therefore, knowing the aspects related to the pathogen and the response of hosts makes it possible to design efficient strategies for selecting genotypes resistant to this disease. In this sense, the objective was to carry out the Bipolaris maydis isolate characterization, evaluating the pathogenicity in different popcorn lines and the symptoms generated in the host after inoculation. The isolate characterization consisted of the macromorphological evaluation of the colonies and the micromorphological evaluation of the conidia in the PDA medium. An experiment was carried out in a greenhouse to evaluate the pathogenicity of the isolate, using 20 inbred lines of popcorn in a randomized block design with four replicates. Inoculation was carried out by spraying leaves, with a suspension containing 1.0 x 104 conidia.ml-1 of the CF/UENF 501 isolate of B. maydis. An incidence assessment and three assessments of disease symptom severity were performed, with seven days intervals between evaluations. The morphological characterization data of the isolate were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and for disease severity, the linear regression model was applied the first-degree model. The variance analysis was performed for the linear and angular coefficients obtained for each treatment. When a difference was found, the Scott-Knott clustering algorithm at 5% significance was applied. The isolate had gray-green colonies, a cottony appearance, and an irregular shape. The lines L353, L354, and L624 show more resistance at the beginning and throughout the evaluations. The high virulence of the CF/UENF 501 isolate made it possible to differentiate the lines in terms of disease intensity and the pattern of symptoms presented.

Resumo Bemisia tabaci é um complexo de espécies que causa danos a uma ampla gama de hospedeiros vegetais por meio de alimentação séria. Ele transmite vírus de plantas de diferentes grupos para importantes safras agrícolas. Algumas safras comerciais importantes do Paquistão são cana-de-açúcar, arroz, tabaco e óleo de semente. Apresenta alta variabilidade genética e é diferenciado em raças ou biótipos. Os biótipos são: biótipo Q, biótipo B, biótipo B2, biótipo M, biótipo L, biótipo A, biótipo H, biótipo C, biótipo K, biótipo N, biótipo R, biótipo E, biótipo P, biótipo J, biótipo S, biótipo AN . Embora o relatório atual baseado no estudo bayesiano das sequências de DNA do gene 1 da oxidase do citocromo mitocondrial (CO1) tenha classificado as diferentes populações de moscas-brancas em doze grupos genéticos, que são Mediterrâneo, África Subsaariana com folha de prata, Oceano Índico, Ásia II, Ásia I, Austrália, Novo Mundo, Itália, China, África Subsaariana sem folha prateada, Batata-doce Mediterrâneo / Ásia Menor / África e Uganda. Os begomovírus são o maior grupo de vírus transmitidos por B. tabaci e causam as principais doenças de culturas, como a doença do cacho do tomate e da pimenta-malagueta, doença do mosaico da mandioca, doença do mosaico amarelo de leguminosas e doença do enrolamento da folha do algodão. O principal objetivo do presente estudo é inculpar conhecimento sobre a diversidade genética da mosca-branca em campos de algodão em todo o Paquistão por meio da análise da sequência parcial de DNA do gene mitocondrial Citocromo Oxidase I (mtCO1).

Abstract Bemisia tabaci is a species complex that causes damage to its broad range of plant hosts through serious feeding. It transmits plant viruses of different groups to important agricultural crops. Some important cash crops of Pakistan are sugar cane, rice, tobacco and seed oil. It shows high genetic variability and is differentiated as races or biotypes. Biotypes are, biotype Q, biotype B, biotype B2, biotype M, biotype L, biotype A, biotype H, biotype C, biotype K, biotype N, biotype R, biotype E, biotype P, biotype J, biotype S, biotype AN. Although the current report based on the Bayesian study of mitochondrial cytohrome oxidase gene1 (CO1) DNA sequences has classified the different populations of whiteflies into twelve genetic groups which are Mediterranean, Sub-Saharan Africa silverleafing, Indian Ocean, Asia II, Asia I, Australia, New World, Italy, China, Sub-Saharan Africa non-silverleafing, Mediterranean/Asia Minor/Africa and Uganda sweet potato. Begomoviruses is largest group of viruses transmitted by B. tabaci and cause major diseases of crops such as tomato and chili leaf curl disease, cassava mosaic disease; yellow mosaic disease of legumes and cotton leaf curl disease. The main objective of current study is to inculpate knowledge regarding genetic diversity of whitefly in cotton fields across Pakistan via analysis of partial DNA sequence of mitochondrial gene Cytochrom Oxidase I (mtCO1).

Resumo O presente estudo foi conduzido para investigar a variedade de hospedeiros, distribuição e avaliar a toxicidade de quatro inseticidas: imidaclopride, fipronil, cipermetrina e clorpirifós isoladamente e em combinação contra larva de 3º ínstar e estágio adulto da mosca-das-frutas Bactrocera diversa Coquillett, 1904 (Diptera: Tephritidae) durante 2021. Larvas de B. diversa foram encontradas se alimentando vigorosamente dentro dos hospedeiros de cucurbitáceas (abóbora, pepino, cabaça amarga, melancia, melão redondo, cabaça) coletados em diferentes localidades da divisão Poonch de Azad Jammu e Caxemira, Paquistão, e essa espécie é relatada pela primeira vez como novo registro para essa região. A suscetibilidade de B. diversa a inseticidas foi avaliada por método tópico. A mortalidade foi verificada após 3, 6, 8 e 24 horas de exposição. A cipermetrina foi mais eficaz para matar 50% do estágio larval e adulto com menos CL50 [7,2(1,040 ± 0,214), 17,4 (0,748±0,193)], respectivamente, seguido por imidaclopride. O imidaclopride matou mais efetivamente 90% da população larval e adulta com o menor valor de LC90 [73,2 (3,013 ± 0,708) 16,9 (1,886 ± 0,437)], respectivamente, após 24 horas. Cipermetrina com clorpirifós matou mais efetivamente 50% e 90% do estágio larval e adulto de B. diversa com valor mínimo de LC50 [11,3 (1,085 ± 0,245), 2,5 (0,759 ± 0,252)] e valor mínimo de LC90 [171,3 (1,085 ± 0,245), 121,9 (0,759 ± 0,252)], respectivamente, após 24 horas de exposição. A toxicidade de cada inseticida aumentou com a exposição por mais tempo e com o aumento da dose. A cipermetrina é sugerida como mais eficaz contra os estágios larval e adulto de B. diversa em combinação com clorpirifós seguido de imidaclopride.

Abstract The present study was conducted to investigate the array of hosts, distribution and to evaluate the toxicity of four insecticides: imidacloprid, fipronil, cypermethrin and chlorpyrifos alone and in combination against 3rd instar maggot and adult stage of fruit fly Bactrocera diversa Coquillett, 1904 (Diptera: Tephritidae) during 2021. B. diversa maggots were found vigorously feeding inside the cucurbit hosts (pumpkin, cucumber, bitter gourd, watermelon, round melon, bottle gourd) collected from different localities of Poonch division of Azad Jammu & Kashmir, Pakistan, and this species is reported for the first time as new record to this region. Susceptibilities of B. diversa to insecticides were evaluated using topical method. Mortality was checked after 3, 6, 8 and 24h of exposure. Cypermethrin was most effective to kill 50% of both larval and adult stage with least LC50 [7.2(1.040±0.214), 17.4(0.748±0.193)], respectively followed by imidacloprid. Imidacloprid most effectively killed 90% of both larval and adult population with least LC90 value [73.2 (3.013±0.708) 16.9 (1.886±0.437)] respectively after 24 hours. Cypermethrin with chlorpyrifos most effectively killed 50 and 90 percent of both larval and adult stage of B. diversa with least LC50 value [11.3 (1.085±0.245), 2.5 (0.759±0.252)] and least LC90 value [171.3 (1.085±0.245), 121.9 (0.759±0.252)], respectively after 24h of exposure. Toxicity of each insecticide increased with exposure for longer time and increased dose. Cypermethrin is suggested as most effective against both larval and adult stages of B. diversa in combination with chlorpyrifos followed by imidacloprid.

Interface areas shared by humans, domestic and wild animals may serve as high transmission contexts for Toxoplasma gondii. However, knowledge about the epidemiology of T. gondii in such areas is currently limited. The present study assessed the seroprevalence of T. gondii in different hosts from Mpumalanga, South Africa. Furthermore, we investigated the local knowledge and related practices about T. gondii by conducting a questionnaire study in the community. Blood samples were obtained and analysed for T. gondii antibodies using a commercial multispecies latex agglutination kit. The seroprevalence detected in humans (n = 160; patients showing signs of acute febrile illness), cats (n = 9), chickens (n = 336) and goats (n = 358) was 8.8%, 0.0%, 4.2% and 11.2%, respectively. Seroprevalence in impalas (n = 97), kudus (n = 55), wild dogs (n = 54), wildebeests (n = 43), warthogs (n = 97) and zebras (n = 68) was calculated at 5.2%, 7.3%, 100.0%, 20.9%, 13.4% and 9.1%, respectively. The questionnaire revealed that 63.0% of household owners were subsistence farmers, and 35.9% were pet owners. A high level of female participation was found (75.3%) when compared to male participation (24.7%). The results show a low circulation of T. gondii in the domestic cycle and suggest the presence of possible bridges between the wildlife cycle and the surrounding domestic cycle. CONTRIBUTION: The study contributes to identifying transmission patterns and risk factors of T. gondii within human and animal populations. This topic fits within the scope of the journal presenting original research in veterinary science, with the focus on wild and domestic populations on the African continent on a topic of universal importance.

Resumo Oesophagostomum venulosum é um nematoide gastrointestinal (GIN) cujos hospedeiros são principalmente ovinos e caprinos. Na Argentina, a presença deste parasito é relatada em todas as regiões do país, principalmente em ovinos. No Noroeste Argentino (NOA) é relatado em bovinos e camelídeos. O objetivo deste trabalho é descrever pela primeira vez a presença de O. venulosum em caprinos da região NOA. Em março de 2023, o Serviço Especializado em Diagnóstico Veterinário realizou uma visita diagnóstica a um estabelecimento de criação de caprinos da raça Criolla, localizado próximo à cidade de Salta Capital, província de Salta, Argentina. O motivo da visita deveu-se ao óbito de uma cabra que, segundo relato do proprietário, antes de sua morte, apresentava quadro de cólicas, dispnéia com perda progressiva da condição corporal. Diante da suspeita de quadro parasitário, optou-se pela coleta do trato digestivo para determinação de espécimes adultos. A presença de Haemonchus contortus e Trichostrongyluscolubriformis pôde ser observada no abomaso e no intestino delgado, respectivamente. Já no cólon foi observada a presença de O. venulosum. A descoberta de O. venulosum nesta espécie vem somar-se aos relatos do referido NGI em outras espécies no NOA, sendo esta a primeira descrição deste tipo em caprinos a nível nacional.

Resumen Oesophagostomum venulosum es un nematodo gastrointestinal (NGI) que tiene como hospedadores principalmente a los ovinos y caprinos. En Argentina la presencia de este parásito está informada en todas las regiones del país, principalmente en la especie ovina. En el Noroeste Argentino (NOA) está reportado en bovinos y camélidos. El objetivo de este trabajo fue describir por primera vez la presencia de O. venulosum en caprinos de la región del NOA. En marzo de 2023, el Servicio de Diagnóstico Veterinario Especializado INTA Salta, realizó una visita diagnóstica a un establecimiento de cría caprino de raza Criolla, ubicado en las cercanías de la ciudad capital de Salta, Argentina. El motivo de la visita fue por la muerte de una cabra que, según el relato del propietario, previo a su muerte presentó un cuadro de cólico y disnea, con pérdida progresiva de la condición corporal. Ante la sospecha de un cuadro parasitario, se decidió recolectar el tracto digestivo para la determinación de especímenes adultos. Se pudo observar la presencia de Haemonchus contortus en el abomaso, de Trichostrongylus colubriformis en el intestino delgado, y de O. venulosum en el colon. El hallazgo de O. venulosum en caprinos se suma a los informes de dicho NGI en otras especies de animales de interés zootécnico del NOA, y es, hasta nuestros conocimientos, la primera descripción en caprinos a nivel nacional.

Abstract Oesophagostomum venulosum is a gastrointestinal nematode (GIN) whose hosts are mainly sheep and goats. In Argentina, the presence of this parasite is reported in all regions of the country, mainly in sheep. In the Argentine Northwest (NOA) it is reported in cattle and camelids. The objective of this work was to describe for the first time the presence of O. venulosum in goats from the NOA region. In March 2023, the INTA Salta Specialized Veterinary Diagnostic Service made a diagnostic visit to a Criolla breed goat breeding facility, located near the capital city of Salta, Argentina. The reason for the visit was due to the death of a goat that, according to the account of the owner, prior to her death, presented symptoms of colic and dyspnea, with progressive loss of body condition. Given the suspicion of a parasitic condition, it was decided to collect the digestive tract for the determination of adult specimens. It was possible to observe the presence of Haemonchus contortus in the abomasum, of Trichostrongylus colubriformis in the small intestine, and of O. venulosum in the colon. The finding of O. venulosum in caprines adds to the reports of said NGI in other animal species of zootechnical interest in the NOA, and is, to our knowledge, the first description in caprines nationwide.

Resumen La producción y consumo de tilapias (Cichlidae) es muy popular en el mundo, por lo que debe asegurarse la inocuidad de la carne producida ante el riesgo potencial de la transmisión zoonótica de parásitos; por ello, el objetivo de este trabajo fue realizar una revisión bibliográfica sobre la prevalencia, distribución y hospederos que intervienen en el ciclo de vida de los helmintos trematodos que pueden transmitirse de manera zoonótica en el consumo de la tilapia. La revisión bibliográfica se llevó a cabo con seis motores de búsqueda especializada. Se analizaron 1,044 artículos, de los cuales 113 incluían datos epidemiológicos. La tilapia fue reportada como el hospedero intermediario de 15 especies de trematodos que afectan al humano, 6 parásitos se reportaron a nivel de género y 2 parásitos a nivel de familia. Los trematodos descritos pertenecen a las familias Heterophyidae y Opisthorchiidae. Las prevalencias reportadas oscilan de 1% en infecciones por Haplorchis pumilio y Centrocestus formosanus hasta 93.64% en infecciones multiparasitarias de Haplorchis yokogawi, Pygidiopsis genata y Phagicola ascolonga. Aunque la biodiversidad de helmintos documentados en la tilapia es abundante, aún es insuficiente la información disponible, situando a la tilapia como un transmisor potencial de estos helmintos en el humano.

Abstract The production and consumption of tilapia (Cichlidae) is very popular in the world, so the safety of the meat produced must be ensured given the potential risk of zoonotic transmission of parasites; For this reason, the objective of this work was to carry out a bibliographic review on the prevalence, distribution and hosts that intervene in the life cycle of trematode helminths that can be transmitted zoonotically in the consumption of tilapia. The bibliographic review was carried out with six specialized search engines. 1,044 articles were analyzed, of which 113 included epidemiological data. Tilapia was reported as the intermediate host of 15 species of trematodes that affect humans, 6 parasites were reported at the genus level and 2 parasites at the family level. The described flukes belong to the families Heterophyidae and Opisthorchiidae. Reported prevalences range from 1% in infections by Haplorchis pumilio and Centrocestus formosanus to 93.64% in multiparasitic infections by Haplorchis yokogawi, Pygidiopsis genata and Phagicola ascolonga. Although the biodiversity of documented helminths in tilapia is abundant, the available information is still insufficient, situating tilapia as a potential transmitter of these helminths in humans.

RESUMEN El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar los informes epidemiológicos y patológicos de brotes y casos confirmados de la enfermedad por SARS-CoV-2 en animales de zoológico, granja y mascota infectados naturalmente. Se obtuvieron informes de brotes y casos de animales infectados por SARS-CoV-2 mediante búsqueda, análisis y clasificación sistemática de información disponible en bases de datos de libre acceso. Los informes se evaluaron e incorporaron a una base de datos, se clasificaron e integraron para identificar los valores característicos de morbilidad, mortalidad y manifestaciones clínicas del SARS-CoV-2 en animales; además de lesiones post mortem y alteraciones microscópicas. Se indican alternativas diagnósticas y terapéuticas para confirmar o mitigar la infección en animales; métodos de control como el aislamiento, sacrificio de poblaciones afectadas y las primeras vacunas disponibles para animales. La información disponible sugiere que los animales se han convertido en huéspedes accidentales del SARSCoV-2, infectándose principalmente a través del contacto con personas afectadas por COVID-19; aunque existe la preocupación de que los animales podrían convertirse en un riesgo de mantenimiento y propagación de nuevas variantes virales, que eventualmente podrían volver a las poblaciones humanas

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to evaluate epidemiological and pathological reports of confirmed outbreaks and cases of zoo, farm, and pet animals naturally infected with Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Confirmed reports of outbreaks and cases of SARS-CoV-2 infected animals were obtained by systematically researching and analyzing information available in open access databases. The reports were evaluated, incorporated into a database, classified, and integrated to estimate average morbidity and mortality values and characteristic clinical manifestations of SARS-CoV-2 in animals. Postmortem lesions and microscopic alterations are also included. Diagnostic and therapeutic alternatives to confirm or mitigate infection in animals are outlined. Finally, control methods include isolation, culling of affected populations, and the development of the first available vaccines for animals. Available information suggests that domestic and zoo animals have become accidental hosts of SARS-CoV-2, becoming infected primarily through contact with COVID-19 affected humans; although there is concern that animals could become a risk for maintaining and spreading new mutant variants of the virus, which could eventually return to human populations.

Resumen Antecedentes: El patrón evolutivo de las dinofitas es complejo y requiere estudios taxonómicos exhaustivos, en desarrollo y morfología, ecología, evolución y genética de las especies. Preguntas: ¿Qué tan reciente fue la transición de D. baltica de México hacia agua dulce con base en la filogenia calibrada temporalmente de las Kryptoperidiniaceae? Especies estudiadas y descripción de los datos: Durinskia baltica, Kryptoperidiniaceae y el registro fósil conocido de dinotomos (dinofitas con diatomeas endosimbiontes) Sitios y años de estudio: Xochimilco, Ciudad de México. 2010 a 2019. Métodos: Se usaron inferencias bayesianas y secuencias de hospederos calibradas con un método de reloj relajado para generar las filogenias. Resultados: Se obtuvieron secuencias genéticas del sector 18S rDNA en el hospedero y del sector rbcL en el endosimbionte. El endosimbionte es genéticamente distinto de otros endosimbiontes con el mismo tipo de diatomea. En cambio, considerando las especies de agua dulce conocidas de Durinskia, la relación genética entre hospedadores es robusta y de origen reciente. La antigüedad de la secuencia mexicana coincide con el origen geológico de la cuenca de Xochimilco, sugiriendo particularidades en la historia evolutiva de los dinotomos ligadas a las regiones geográficas que habitan. Conclusiones: Nuestro escenario evolutivo con una filogenia calibrada indica que la transición de Durinskia baltica hacia agua dulce en la cuenca de Xochimilco está geológicamente contextualizada. El cambio ambiental histórico del lago de Xochimilco con respecto a la salinidad corresponde con una colonización inicial de D. baltica en un ambiente salobre y su posterior adaptación al agua dulce.

Abstract Background: The evolutionary pattern of dinophytes is complex and requires comprehensive taxonomic studies addressing the species' development and morphology, ecology, evolution, and genetics. Questions: How recent was the transition of D. baltica from Mexico to freshwater based on a calibrated phylogeny tree of the Kryptoperidiniaceae? Studied species and data description: Durinskia baltica, Kryptoperidiniaceae and the known fossil record of dinotoms (endosymbiont diatom-host dinophytes). Study sites and dates: Xochimilco, Mexico City. 2010 to 2019. Methods: Phylogenies were constructed with Bayesian inferences and host sequences were calibrated with a relaxed clock method. Results: We obtained genetic sequences of the 18S rDNA sector in the host and the rbcL sector in the endosymbiont. The Nitzschia-type endosymbiont is genetically distinct from endosymbionts of other dinotomes with the same diatom type. In contrast, considering the known freshwater species of Durinskia, the genetic relationship between hosts is robust and of recent origin. The antiquity of the Mexican sequence coincides with the geological origin of the Xochimilco basin, suggesting particularities in the evolutionary history of dinotomes linked to the geographic regions they inhabit. Conclusions: Our evolutionary scenario with a calibrated phylogeny indicates that the transition of Durinskia baltica to freshwater in the Xochimilco basin is geologically contextualized. The historical environmental change of Lake Xochimilco with respect to salinity corresponds with an initial colonization of D. baltica in a brackish environment and its subsequent adaptation to freshwater.

SIGNIFICANCE: The launch of the Southern African Large Telescope (SALT) in 2005, and the introduction of astronomy outreach to interface with the general public, signified a turning point in South African astronomy. We conducted a small study to begin to understand the perceptions of the community that hosts the research facility in Sutherland, in the Northern Cape Province, South Africa. There is an ongoing need for good stakeholder engagement for sustainability. Scientists need critically to consider and review engagement processes with remote communities, including those flanking astronomy infrastructures.

Resumen Introducción: La contaminación química del hábitat acuático representa un gran peligro para organismos acuáticos, especialmente para peces. Los metales ingresan al ambiente acuático desde una variedad de fuentes, incluidos los ciclos biogeoquímicos naturales y fuentes antropogénicas, como efluentes industriales y residenciales, minería y fuentes atmosféricas. Objetivo: Describir las especies de Eustrongylides sp. y la interacción con sus peces hospederos como indicadores de contaminación por mercurio en la Amazonía brasileña, y la distribución en los órganos internos de las especies de peces Hoplias malabaricus y Pygocentrus nattereri recolectadas en cochas del Río Tapajós, en el municipio de Santarém, del estado de Pará. Métodos: El Hg total se analizó utilizando el Direct Hg Analyzer - DMA-80. Las concentraciones de Eustrongylides sp. se compararon con las encontrados en los tejidos/órganos de los hospederos H. malabaricus y P. nattereri. Las concentraciones en el sistema hospedero/parásito se compararon estadísticamente utilizando el análisis de componentes principales. Se calculó el factor de bioconcentración (BCF) para evaluar la capacidad de bioacumulación de metales en larvas de Eustrongylides sp., comparando la concentración en el parásito con la acumulada en la musculatura de los hospederos infectados. Resultados: Las concentraciones de Hg en todos los tejidos/órganos analizados fueron mayores en las larvas de la especie parasitaria Eustrongylides sp. en comparación con las encontradas en los tejidos/órganos de H. malabaricus y P. nattereri. Hubo una relación inversamente proporcional, mostrando que cuando las larvas de Eustrongylides sp. están presentes, la concentración en el parásito es mayor que en la musculatura de los peces hospederos H. malabaricus y P. nattereri. El BCF de Hg se encontró comparando Eustrongylides sp. larvas/ músculo H. malabaricus y se observó durante una inundación (BCF Hg = 15 364). Conclusiones: Los resultados confirman la mayor capacidad bioacumulativa de Eustrongylides sp. en comparación con su hospedero. Los datos indicaron la viabilidad de utilizar larvas de Eustrongylides sp. en programas de biomonitoreo. Cabe mencionar que las muestras de pescado para análisis de Hg deben estar libres de parásitos ya que su presencia puede alterar los resultados.

Abstract Introduction: Chemical pollution represents a great concern to aquatic organisms, especially fish. Metals enter the aquatic environment from a variety of sources, including natural biogeochemical cycles and anthropogenic sources such as industrial and residential effluents, mining and atmospheric sources. Objective: To describe the Eustrongylides sp. larvae and the interaction with their fish hosts as indicators of mercury (Hg) contamination in the Brazilian Amazon, and the distribution of Hg in the internal organs of fish species Hoplias malabaricus and Pygocentrus nattereri collected in oxbow lakes on the Tapajós River, in the municipality of Santarém, in the state of Pará. Methods: Total Hg was analyzed using the Direct Hg Analyzer - DMA-80. Concentrations of Hg in Eustrongylides sp. were compared with those found in the tissues/organs of the hosts H. malabaricus and P. nattereri. Hg concentrations in the host/parasite system were statistically compared using Principal Component Analysis. The bioconcentration factor (BCF) was calculated to assess the bioaccumulation capacity of metals in Eustrongylides sp. larvae, comparing the concentration of Hg in the parasite with that accumulated in the musculature of infected hosts. Results: Hg concentrations in all tissues/organs analyzed were higher in the parasitic species Eustrongylides sp. larvae when compared with those found in tissues/organs of H. malabaricus and P. nattereri. There was an inversely proportional relationship, showing that when Eustrongylides sp. larvae are present, the concentration in the parasite is higher than in the musculature of host fish H. malabaricus and P. nattereri. The BCF of Hg was found by comparing Eustrongylides sp. larvae/H. malabaricus muscle and was observed during a flood (BCF Hg = 15 364). Conclusions: The results confirm the greater bioaccumulative capacity of Eustrongylides sp. compared to its host. The data indicated the viability of using Eustrongylides sp. larvae in biomonitoring programs. It is worth mentioning that fish samples for Hg analysis must be free of parasites since their presence can alter the results.

The South African asylum system has gone through a dynamic change over the last twenty years and NGOs have been a permanent feature of the system starting from the crafting of the Refugees Act. Over the last decade, the flow of asylum seekers has slowed, but the country still hosts a significant number of African and Asian asylum seekers and refugees. As a result of the many factors, asylum seekers and refugees face a multitude of challenges. Some of the challenges include inefficient public service, a corrupt system, xenophobia, and other challenges. NGOs have championed the rights of asylum seekers and refugees. This paper looks at the work that has been done by NGOs working in the protection of the rights of asylum seekers and refugees from 2005 to 2017, utilizing the case study of the 40 Ethiopian and 37 Democratic Republic of the Congo nationals residing in Johannesburg and Durban through interviews. The researcher collected additional primary data from selected NGOs and analyzed both data sets through descriptive statistics. The findings indicate that NGOs have their areas of speciality, and their roles has changed over the course of the 12 years from being cooperative with state actors to mostly a combative role to ensure and protect the rights of asylum seekers and refugees. Their effectiveness has also been impacted as a result, and litigation has not always been effective. Asylum seekers and refugees find NGOs effective to a certain extent, but a significant number of them are not aware of NGOs or the work they do.