Parthenolide (PTN) is a secondary metabolite of the plant Tanacetum parthenium (L.) Schulz Bip. and is considered the chemical marker of this species. This sesquiterpene lactone (germacrene skeleton) has been described as responsible for the biological activity of the leaf extract. In addition, several studies in the literature have demonstrated its antiparasitic and antineoplastic activity. However, there is a need for knowledge of other safety parameters, such as pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamic and toxicity evaluations. Therefore, in this investigation, the in vitro metabolism of parthenolide was performed with rat liver microsomes and biomimetic metabolism (such as cytochrome P-450 system) using organometallic catalysts. The biomimetic procedure was validated since the major compound of biomimetic oxidative reaction with meta-chloroperbenzoic acid catalyzed by metalloporphyrin 5,10,15,20-tetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)-porphyrin iron(III) chloride was also observed with rat liver microsomes. Previous chemoenzymatic synthesis studies of PTN afforded the same epoxide formation, this major oxidative compound was isolated and fully characterized as (1 R,10R)-epoxyparthenolide based on experimental and theoretical calculations of infrared (IR) and vibrational circular dichroism (VCD) data at the B3PW91/6-311G. Furthermore, for the first time, this metabolite was evaluated for trypanocidal and leishmanicidal activity. The mean inhibitory concentration (IC50) values were lower for PTN than its metabolite and showed significant cytotoxic effects for both parasites. This finding holds promise for addressing neglected diseases. (PTN L. L (L. Bip species germacrene skeleton extract addition However parameters pharmacokinetic evaluations Therefore investigation P450 P 450 P-45 system catalysts metachloroperbenzoic meta chloroperbenzoic 5,10,15,20tetrakispentafluorophenylporphyrin 5101520tetrakispentafluorophenylporphyrin tetrakispentafluorophenylporphyrin 5,10,15,20 tetrakis pentafluorophenyl porphyrin 5 10 15 20 ironIII iron III iron(III formation 1 ( R,10Repoxyparthenolide R10Repoxyparthenolide RRepoxyparthenolide R,10R epoxyparthenolide R 10R IR (IR VCD (VCD B3PW91/6311G. B3PW916311G BPWG B3PW91/6 311G. B3PW91 6 311G B PW G B3PW91/6-311G Furthermore time IC50 IC (IC50 parasites diseases (L P45 45 P-4 20tetrakispentafluorophenylporphyrin 5101520 5,10,15,2 2 10Repoxyparthenolide Repoxyparthenolide R10R RR 6311G B3PW91/6311G B3PW916 BPW B3PW91/ B3PW9 IC5 (IC5 P4 4 P- 510152 5,10,15, B3PW (IC 51015 5,10,15 5101 5,10,1 510 5,10, 51 5,10 5,1 5,

In silico and in vitro tests can reveal promising anti-leishmania activity for natural products and their derivatives. The aim of this study was to investigate in silico the pharmacological activities of potential new chalcones and their leishmanicidal potential in vitro. The in silico study was carried out using the PASS, MolPredictX and Molegro Virtual Docker 6.0 programs. Antiparasitic activity was assessed in axenic promastigote and amastigote forms of Leishmania braziliensis. The cytotoxicity tests used the J77G8 cell line. The chalcones exhibited 50% cytotoxic concentration values (CC50) values > 50 μM. Chalcone 4 (named FERAI) presented the best activity with concentration for 50% of promastigotes and intracellular parasites forms (EC50) of 9.75 ± 1.7 and 10.13 ± 1.7 μM for promastigote and amastigote, respectively. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) testing presented increased ROS levels in the parasite at the FERAI concentrations of 10 μM (56.33%), 20 μM (61.76%) and 30 μM (67.13%). Molecular docking revealed interactions (binding energy) between FERAI and the enzymes UDP-glycosyl pyrophosphorylase (-56.8384), dihydroorotate-dehydrogenase (-132.276) and trypanothione-reductase (-151.281). Our results demonstrated the anti-leishmanial activity of chalcones, especially FERAI, with a noted raising of ROS levels in the parasite. Molecular docking revealed dihydroorotate dehydrogenase and trypanothione reductase as potential pharmacological targets for FERAI. antileishmania anti leishmania derivatives PASS 60 6 0 6. programs braziliensis JG J G J77G line CC50 CC (CC50 5 named EC50 EC (EC50 975 9 75 9.7 17 1 7 1. 1013 13 10.1 respectively (ROS 56.33%, 5633 56.33% , 56 33 (56.33%) 2 61.76% 6176 61 76 (61.76% 3 67.13%. 6713 67.13% . 67 (67.13%) binding energy UDPglycosyl UDP glycosyl 56.8384, 568384 56.8384 8384 (-56.8384) dihydroorotatedehydrogenase 132.276 132276 132 276 (-132.276 trypanothionereductase 151.281. 151281 151.281 151 281 (-151.281) antileishmanial leishmanial CC5 (CC5 EC5 (EC5 97 9. 101 10. 563 56.33 (56.33% 61.76 617 (61.76 671 67.13 (67.13% 56838 56.838 838 (-56.8384 132.27 13227 27 (-132.27 15128 151.28 15 28 (-151.281 (CC (EC 56.3 (56.33 61.7 (61.7 67.1 (67.13 5683 56.83 83 (-56.838 132.2 1322 (-132.2 1512 151.2 (-151.28 56. (56.3 61. (61. 67. (67.1 568 56.8 8 (-56.83 132. (-132. 151. (-151.2 (56. (61 (67. (-56.8 (-132 (-151. (56 (6 (67 (-56. (-13 (-151 (5 ( (-56 (-1 (-15 (-5 (-

Abstract Introduction: Macrobrachium amazonicum is widely distributed in South America, occurring in the Orinoco, Amazon and Paraguay river basins, being used as an important source of protein for feeding riverside populations. This prawn is host to the crustacean ectoparasites Probopyrus pandalicola, Probopyrus floridensis and Probopyrus bithynis (Bopyridae) that infest the gill cavity of the species. Objective: To report the prevalence and abundance of ectopasites (P. pandalicola, P. floridensis and P. bithynis) and the condition factor in M. amazonicum from the Amazon River, Eastern Amazon. Methods: The prawns were collected from May 2017 to April 2018, with the artisanal trap matapi in the municipalities of Mazagão (state of Amapá) and Santarém (state of Pará), Brazil. Results: 216 prawns infected with ectoparasites were captured, 133 in the Mazagão region (53 P. pandalicola, 48 P. bithynis and 32 P. floridensis) and 83 in the Santarém region (45 P. pandalicola and 38 P. bithynis). In Mazagão, the highest prevalence values were recorded in May (1.98 %) for P. floridensis, July (2.18 %) for P. bithynis, and March (1.93 %) for P. pandalicola. In the Santarém region, the highest prevalence values were recorded in February, 3.47 for P. pandalicola and 2.89 for P. bithynis. Regarding the abundance of parasites, there was no difference between the species grouped between the regions (t = 0.32, p = 0.739). Parasitized prawns from Mazagão and Santarém presented condition factors below expectations, with an average of 0.85 ± 0.55 for Santarém and 0.88 ± 0.44 for Mazagão. Conclusions: During the study it was found that P. pandalicola, P. bithynis and P. floridensis were present in M. amazonicum throughout the year. Furthermore, there was an effect of parasitism on M. amazonicum in the study areas.

Resumen Introducción: Macrobrachium amazonicum está ampliamente distribuido en América del Sur, se encuentra en las cuencas de los ríos Orinoco, Amazonas y Paraguay, se utiliza como una fuente importante de proteínas para alimentar a las poblaciones ribereñas. Este camarón es hospedero de los ectoparásitos crustáceos: Probopyrus pandalicola, Probopyrus floridensis y Probopyrus bithynis (Bopyridae), que infestan la cavidad branquial de la especie. Objetivo: Reportar la prevalencia y abundancia de ectoparásitos (P. pandalicola, P. floridensis y P. bithynis) y el factor de condición de M. amazonicum en el| río Amazonas, al este de la Amazonía. Métodos: Los camarones fueron recolectados entre mayo 2017 y abril 2018, con la ayuda de matapis (trampa artesanal) en los municipios de Mazagão (Estado de Amapá) y Santarém (Estado de Pará), Brasil. Resultados: Se capturaron un total de 216 camarones parasitados con ectoparásitos, 133 de ellos en la región de Mazagão (53 P. pandalicola, 48 P. bithynis y 32 P. floridensis) y 83 en la región de Santarém (45 P. pandalicola y 38 P. bithynis). En Mazagão, los valores más altos de prevalencia se registraron en mayo (1.98 %) para P. floridensis, julio (2.18 %) para P. bithynis y marzo (1.93 %) para P. pandalicola. En la región de Santarém, los valores más altos de prevalencia se registraron en febrero, de 3.47 para P. pandalicola y 2.89 para P. bithynis. En cuanto a la abundancia de parásitos, no hubo diferencia entre las especies agrupadas entre las regiones (t = 0.32, p = 0.739). Los camarones parasitados de Mazagão y Santarém mostraron factores de condición por debajo de lo esperado, con un promedio de 0.85 ± 0.55 para Santarém y 0.88 ± 0.44 para Mazagão. Conclusiones: Durante el estudio, se encontró que P. pandalicola, P. bithynis y P. floridensis estuvieron presentes en M. Amazonicum todo el año. Además, hubo un efecto de parasitismo sobre M. Amazonicum en las áreas de estudio.

Resumen Introducción. La angiostrongiliasis abdominal y neura -causadas por Angiostrongylus costaricensis y A. cantonensis, respectivamente- son zoonosis que involucran caracoles como huéspedes intermediarios. Colombia ya ha reportado casos en humanos y la ampliación de la distribución de Lissachatina fulica y Cornu aspersum aumenta la preocupación en salud pública debido al riesgo potencial de transmisión en áreas donde los parásitos y sus huéspedes coexisten. Objetivo. Identificar la presencia de Angiostrongylus spp. en caracoles de las especies L. fulica y C. aspersum en Antioquia (Colombia). Materiales y métodos. Se llevó a cabo un estudio transversal prospectivo con una población de 5.855 caracoles de L. fulica o C. aspersum, capturados en diez ciudades del valle de Aburrá; 169 muestras fueron recolectadas en 28 puntos de muestreo. Se disecaron los tejidos pulmonares de los caracoles y se emplearon técnicas moleculares para detectar la presencia de Angiostrongylus spp. Resultados. Angiostrongylus costaricensis fue detectado en 18 muestras agrupadas (30 %; IC95%: 19,2-43,3), tanto en L. fulica como en C. aspersum. Medellín fue el municipio con el mayor número de muestras positivas (33,3 %). El 72,2 % de los lugares positivos reportaron la presencia de roedores. Ninguna de las pruebas fue positiva para A. cantonensis. Conclusión. Estos hallazgos brindan información importante sobre la distribución de Angiostrongylus spp. en Antioquia (Colombia). La identificación de estos nemátodos en L. fulica y C. aspersum resalta el papel potencial de estos caracoles como huéspedes intermediarios en la transmisión de infecciones por Angiostrongylus en el valle de Aburrá, con implicaciones para la salud humana y veterinaria.

Abstract Introduction. Abdominal and neural angiostrongyliasis caused by Angiostrongylus costaricensis and A. cantonensis, respectively, are zoonotic diseases involving snails as intermediate hosts. Colombia has already reported human cases, and the increasing distribution of Lissachatina fulica and Cornu aspersum raises public health concerns due to the potential risk of disease transmission in areas where parasites and hosts coexist. Objective. To identify the presence of Angiostrongylus spp. in snail species L. fulica and C. aspersum in Antioquia, Colombia. Materials and methods. This prospective cross-sectional study had a population of 5,855 L. fulica and C. aspersum snails captured in the ten towns of the Valle de Aburrá (Antioquia, Colombia), 169 samples were collected in 28 sampling points. Lung tissues of the collected snails were dissected and analyzed to detect Angiostrongylus spp. through molecular techniques. Results. Angiostrongylus spp. were identified in both L. fulica and C. aspersum. Angiostrongylus costaricensis was detected in 18 pooled prevalence of 30% (95% CI = 19.2-43.3), and Medellín was the municipality with the highest number of positive samples (33.3%). Seventy-two-point-two percent of the positive places reported the presence of rodents. None of the tests were positive for A. cantonensis. Conclusion. Our findings provide important insights into the epidemiology and distribution of Angiostrongylus spp. in Antioquia, Colombia. The identification of these parasitic nematodes in L. fulica and C. aspersum highlights the potential role of these snails as intermediate hosts in the transmission of Angiostrongylus spp. infections in the Valle de Aburrá, with implications for human and veterinary health.

Abstract Introduction: The vaginal flora consists in different microorganisms that promote a balanced interaction between the vaginal microbiome, hormonal status, products of microbial metabolism, and the host’s immune response. The instability of the vaginal ecosystem can lead to vulvovaginitis, which is a reason for frequent consultation in primary health care, as bacterial vaginosis, vaginal candidiasis, and trichomoniasis, are responsible for most diagnoses. There are other pathologies with similar presentations but less frequent. However, these are not considered to result in wrong diagnoses and treatments, such as cytolytic vaginosis. Case description: A 20-year-old woman complained of abundant vaginal discharge, use of daily sanitary pads, itching, and odor change within one month of evolution. The physical examination highlights the redness of the external lips and vaginal introitus, as abundant, non-adherent, non-airy, and odorless mucous discharge. Cervicovaginal cytology was performed on a slide that showed inflammation and was negative for intraepithelial lesions or malignancies. A culture of vaginal exudate was requested, which showed abundant epithelial cells and numerous Doderlein bacilli. Considering the presented case, the most likely diagnosis of cytolytic vaginosis was assumed. Recommendations were given, sitz baths with sodium bicarbonate were prescribed, and the patient remained asymptomatic. Comment: In the case of a patient with symptoms of vaginal discharge and itching, the first diagnostic hypothesis should consider the prevalence of the most frequent vulvovaginal infections. However, the culture of the exudate allowed us to exclude the presence of bacteria, fungi, and parasites. The patient’s symptoms and physical examination findings are characteristic of cytolytic vaginosis. The culture of the exudate confirmed the suspicion, and the appropriate diagnosis and treatment were performed. This case is intended to alert clinicians to the existence of this pathology that can often go unnoticed, compromising women’s health.

Resumo Introdução: A flora vaginal é constituída por diferentes microorganismos que promovem uma interação equilibrada entre o microbioma vaginal, estado hormonal, produtos do metabolismo microbiano e resposta imune do hospedeiro. A instabilidade do ecossistema vaginal pode levar a vulvovaginites, que são um motivo de consulta frequente nos cuidados de saúde primários, sendo a vaginose bacteriana, candidíase vaginal e tricomoníase responsáveis pela maioria dos diagnósticos. Existem outras patologias com apresentações semelhantes que, por serem menos frequentes, não são ponderadas e resultam em diagnósticos e tratamentos errados como a vaginose citolítica. Descrição do caso: Mulher de 20 anos de idade, com queixas de corrimento vaginal abundante, necessidade de uso de penso diário, prurido e alteração de odor com um mês de evolução. Ao exame objetivo destaca-se a ruborização dos lábios externos e introito vaginal, corrimento mucoso abundante, não aderente, não arejado e sem cheiro. É efetuada citologia cervico-vaginal em lâmina, que apresentava inflamação e foi negativa para lesão intraepitelial ou malignidade. Foi pedida cultura de exsudado vaginal, que apresentava abundantes células epiteliais e numerosos bacilos de Doderlein. Tendo em conta o quadro apresentado foi assumido como diagnóstico mais provável vaginose citolítica. Foram dadas recomendações e prescritos banhos de assento com bicarbonato de sódio, tendo a utente ficado assintomática. Comentário: Perante uma doente com sintomas de corrimento vaginal e prurido, a primeira hipótese diagnóstica deverá considerar a prevalência das infeções vulvovaginais mais frequentes. Contudo, a cultura do exsudado permitiu excluir a presença de bactérias, fungos e parasitas. A sintomatologia apresentada pela doente e os achados do exame físico são característicos da vaginose citolítica. A cultura do exsudado corroborou a suspeita, sendo feito o diagnóstico e o tratamento adequados. Com este caso pretende-se alertar os clínicos para a existência desta patologia, que pode muitas vezes passar despercebida, comprometendo a saúde da mulher.

Abstract Tungiasis is a skin parasitosis caused by a flea. It is very prevalent in underdeveloped countries and rare in developed countries, particularly in Europe. The disease is acquired through direct contact with infected soil, mainly on the feet after the host has been barefoot. The disease is typically self-limited and its diagnosis is essentially clinical due to its typical clinical presentation. This report presents a case of imported tungiasis in Portugal, in a 21-year-old male patient after returning from a vacation in a country with a high prevalence of this parasite. The patient had three typical tungiasis lesions, with no associated complications. The parasites were surgically excised without complications. The aim of this report is to contribute to knowledge of this pathology, which is largely unknown to the majority of the medical community. Its identification is essential due to the increase in globalization, tourism, and the importation of this pathology.

Resumo A tungíase é uma parasitose cutânea causada por uma pulga, sendo prevalente em países subdesenvolvidos, sendo rara a sua apresentação em países desenvolvidos, nomeadamente na Europa. A doença é adquirida através contacto direto com o solo infetado, sendo adquirida principalmente nos pés após o hospedeiro ter andado descalço. A doença é tipicamente autolimitada e o seu diagnóstico é essencialmente clínico devido à sua apresentação clínica típica. Neste relato apresenta-se um caso de importação de tungíase em Portugal num utente masculino de 21 anos após regressar de férias num país com alta prevalência deste parasita. O utente apresentava tês lesões típicas de tungíase, sem complicações associadas. Foi realizada a excisão cirúrgica dos parasitas sem intercorências. Com este relato pretende-se contribuir para o conhecimento desta patologia muito desconhecida pela maioria da comunidade médica, sendo essencial a sua identificação devido ao aumento da globalização, do turismo e da importação desta patologia.

Abstract One of the elements of the mission programs on the frontiers of Spanish America was the creation of communities that conformed to norms established for urban planning by royal law, or, in other words, to the grid plan. Missionaries congregated thousands of indigenous peoples on the mission communities, and had them live in spatially compact living areas. Living in proximity to others helped spread highly contagious crowd diseases such as smallpox, and created hygiene problems. This article examines the urban plan and housing arrangements for indigenous peoples brought to live on the missions among the Guaraní and the California. It posits that the spatial organization of the mission communities and forms of housing were important factors in determining demographic patterns among the mission residents. It analyzes historic diagrams of the urban plan of selected mission communities in conjunction with a discussion of fertility and mortality patterns calculated from censuses and registers of baptisms and burials. The article confirms the hypothesis of the strong relationship between the urban plan, and demographic patterns. At the same time, it highlights differences between the two case studies presented. The Jesuits brought thousands of Guaraní to live on the mission communities created from whole cloth, and the large population densities facilitated the spread of contagion. Periodic epidemics killed thousands, but the populations recovered. On the California missions, chronic ailments such as syphilis and parasites from improper sanitation associated with living conditions were the major causes of mortality. The California mission populations did not recover.

Resumen Uno de los elementos de los programas misioneros en las fronteras de Hispanoamérica fue la creación de comunidades que se ajustaran a las normas establecidas para la planificación urbana por ley real, es decir, en el plano cuadriculado. Los misioneros congregaron a miles de indígenas en las comunidades de la misión y los hicieron vivir en áreas de vivienda espacialmente compactas. Vivir cerca de otros favoreció la propagación de enfermedades altamente contagiosas, como la viruela, y generó problemas de higiene. Este artículo examina el plan urbano y los arreglos de vivienda para los pueblos indígenas traídos a vivir en las misiones entre los guaraníes y los californianos. Postula que la organización espacial de las comunidades misioneras y las formas de vivienda fueron factores importantes en la determinación de los patrones demográficos entre los residentes de la misión. Analiza diagramas históricos del plan urbano de comunidades misioneras seleccionadas junto con una discusión de patrones de fertilidad y mortalidad calculados a partir de censos y registros de bautismos y entierros. Confirma la hipótesis de la fuerte relación entre el plan urbano y los patrones demográficos. Al mismo tiempo, destaca las diferencias entre sus dos estudios de caso: las misiones guaraníes donde las epidemias periódicas mataron a miles, pero las poblaciones se recuperaron; y las misiones californianas, donde las principales causas de mortalidad fueron las dolencias crónicas como la sífilis y los parásitos debidos a un saneamiento inadecuado asociado con las condiciones de vida, y cuyas poblaciones no se recuperaron.

Abstract Parkinson's disease is caused by the death process of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra, pars compacta of the brain. Although its etiology is unknown, the finding of Lewy bodies, formed by alpha-synuclein, in the intestine suggests a source of microbial production that travels to the central nervous system, mainly through the pneumogastric nerve. To understand how the microbiota-gut-brain axis works and influences a healthy person or person with Parkinson's disease, a systematic review of scientific articles from the last five years was carried out in the Scopus database. It has been shown that the signaling network that regulates the microbiota-gut-brain axis in a bidirectional communication network is present during the neurodevelopment of the individual and at the onset of Parkinson's disease, therefore, the microbiota represents the entry point of internal factors that disrupt communication and neurological dysfunction. As the diversity of the microbiota changes at various stages of the individual's development for multiple reasons, such as diet, hygiene patterns, interaction with animals and parasites, and medication, among other factors; it is necessary to know the state of the current microbiota, understand its function in the enteric nervous system and its influence on the central nervous system, especially if it is the etiopathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases. The discovery of diagnostic biomarkers and neuroprotective therapies holds the promise of significantly improving the quality of life for individuals with Parkinson's disease.

Resumen La enfermedad de Parkinson es producida por un proceso de muerte de neuronas dopaminérgicas en la sustancia negra, pars compacta del cerebro. Aunque su etiología es desconocida, el hallazgo de cuerpos de Lewy, constituidos por alfa sinucleína, en el intestino sugiere una fuente de producción microbiana que viaja hasta el sistema nervioso central, principalmente a través del nervio vago. Para comprender cómo funciona el eje microbiota-intestino-cerebro e influye en una persona sana o con enfermedad de Parkinson, se realizó una revisión sistemática de artículos científicos de los últimos cinco años en la base de datos Scopus. Se ha demostrado que la red de señalización que regula el eje microbiota-intestino-cerebro en una comunicación bidireccional está presente durante el neurodesarrollo del individuo y en el inicio de la enfermedad de Parkinson, por lo tanto, la microbiota representa la vía de entrada de factores internos que generan la desregulación de la comunicación y una disfunción neurológica. Como la diversidad de la microbiota cambia en diversas etapas del desarrollo del individuo por múltiples razones, como hábitos alimentarios, patrones de higiene, interacción con animales y parásitos, medicación, entre otros; es necesario conocer el estado de la microbiota actual, comprender cuál es su función en el sistema nervioso entérico e influencia en el sistema nervioso central, sobre todo si se trata de la etiopatogenia de enfermedades neurodegenerativas. El descubrimiento de biomarcadores de diagnóstico y una terapia neuroprotectora ayudará a mejorar la calidad de vida de personas con enfermedad de Parkinson.

Abstract Species of the genus Anisakis (Nematoda: Anisakidae) are indirect life-cycle marine parasites. Planktonic crustaceans serve as first intermediate hosts, while fish and cephalopods as second intermediate or paratenic hosts, and finally the cycle is completed in cetaceans, marine mammals that are the main definitive hosts of the genus. In the life cycle, Anisakis larvae can be ingested by humans as accidental hosts, which can cause anisakiasis, a zoonosis acquired through the consumption of raw or marinated fish and cephalopods. These nematodes have a cosmopolitan distribution; however, their diversity has been poorly studied in the southern hemisphere. Therefore, diversity of Anisakis spp. larvae present in two host species in Chile was evaluated by combining morphometric and genetic analysis. For this purpose, Anisakis spp. larvae were collected from the abdominal cavity of hake Merluccius gayi and the Humboldt squid Dosidicus gigas from fishing ports in the Biobío Region, Chile. Morphometric characterization of Anisakis spp. larvae consisted of measuring the length of the esophagus, esophageal ventricle, tail, total length and maximum body width. The nuclear ITS (ITS1- ITS2) and mitochondrial COX2 molecular regions were used for genetic analysis. Morphometric results revealed that Anisakis larvae extracted from D. gigas were significantly longer than those collected from M. gayi, suggesting high host-dependent phenotypic variability. Molecular and phylogenetic analyses determined the presence of Anisakis pegreffii in both host, however, demonstrated low genetic differentiation and nucleotide diversity among sequences, indicating low genetic variability for the data set. This work constitutes the first molecular record of A. pegreffii in intermediate / paratenic hosts from the coast of Chile.

Resumen Las especies del género Anisakis (Nematoda: Anisakidae) son parásitos marinos con ciclo de vida indirecto. Los crustáceos planctónicos intervienen como primeros hospedadores intermediarios, mientras que peces y cefalópodos intervienen como segundos hospedadores intermediarios o paraténicos, finalmente el ciclo se cierra en los cetáceos, mamíferos marinos que son los principales hospedadores definitivos del género. En el ciclo de vida, las larvas de Anisakis pueden ser ingeridas por el hombre interviniendo como huésped accidental, lo que puede ocasionar anisakiasis, una zoonosis adquirida a través del consumo de peces y cefalópodos crudos o marinados. Estos nemátodos tienen una distribución cosmopolita, sin embargo, su diversidad ha sido escasamente estudiada en el hemisferio Sur. Por tanto, se evaluó la diversidad de las larvas de Anisakis spp., presentes en dos especies de hospederos de Chile, combinando el análisis morfométrico y genético. Para ello, se recolectaron larvas de Anisakis spp. en la cavidad abdominal de la merluza Merluccius gayi y el calamar de Humboldt Dosidicus gigas, procedentes de terminales pesqueros de la región del Biobío, Chile. La caracterización morfométrica de las larvas de Anisakis spp., consistió en la medición de la longitud del esófago, ventrículo esofágico, cola, longitud total y ancho máximo del cuerpo. Para los análisis genéticos se usó la región molecular nuclear ITS (ITS1-ITS2) y mitocondrial COX2. Los resultados morfométricos revelaron que las larvas de Anisakis extraídas de D. gigas fueron significativamente de mayor longitud que las recolectadas en M. gayi, sugiriendo una alta variabilidad fenotípica hospedador-dependiente. Los análisis moleculares y filogenéticos determinaron la presencia de Anisakis pegreffii en ambos hospedadores, sin embargo, demostraron una baja diferenciación genética y diversidad nucleotídica entre las secuencias, indicando una escasa variabilidad genética para el conjunto de datos. Este trabajo constituye el primer registro molecular de A. pegreffii en hospedadores intermediario o paraténicos de la costa de Chile.

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).

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: Sea urchin diseases have been documented in several locations worldwide, with reported occurrences of bacterial, protozoan, fungal, and algal infections. Objective: This study aimed to investigate pathogen agents in populations of Arbacia lixula and Paracentrotus lividus along the coast of Gran Canaria Island (Central-East Atlantic, Spain). Methods: Sampling was conducted at San Cristobal beach, on the Northeast side of the island, where sea urchins were manually collected from depths of 1-3 m during June, July, and October 2022. Swab samples were taken from the external and internal areas of the lesions and cultured on various media plates. Results: Eight different pathogen agents, including bacteria and fungi, were identified, with Vibrio alginolyticus being the most frequently observed bacteria in all diseased sea urchin samples. Additionally, ciliated protozoans were found within the tests, potentially acting as opportunistic parasites. Conclusions: This research provides a unique perspective on bald sea urchin disease by identifying a significant number of associated pathogens, including Candida, previously unreported in diseased organisms. Furthermore, the study highlights the presence of an inflammatory response in tissues with bacterial colonies, offering crucial insights into understanding this sea urchin disease.

Resumen Introducción: Las enfermedades en los erizos de mar han sido descritas en muchas localidades alrededor del mundo, y se han asociado con la presencia de infecciones por bacterias, protozoarios, hongos y algas. Objetivo: Este estudio tuvo como finalidad investigar sobre los agentes patógenos que afectan a las poblaciones de Arbacia lixula y Paracentrotus lividus a lo largo de la costa de la Isla de Gran Canaria (Atlántico Centro-Oriental, España). Métodos: El muestreo fue llevado a cabo en la playa de San Cristóbal, al noreste de la isla, dónde los organismos fueron capturados entre 1-3 metros de profundidad, durante junio, julio y octubre del año 2022. Se tomaron muestras en la zona interna y externa de la lesión en cada organismo, y se cultivaron en varios medios de cultivo. Resultados: Fueron identificados ocho agentes patógenos diferentes, incluyendo bacterias y hongos, y siendo Vibrio alginolyticus la bacteria más frecuentemente observada en todas las muestras de erizos enfermos. Además, se observaron protozoarios ciliados dentro de los caparazones, actuando potencialmente como parásitos oportunistas. Conclusiones: Esta investigación proporciona una perspectiva única sobre la enfermedad del erizo desnudo al identificar un número significativo de patógenos asociados, incluida Candida, que no se había reportado previamente en organismos enfermos. Además, el estudio destaca la presencia de una respuesta inflamatoria en tejidos con colonias bacterianas, lo que ofrece información crucial para comprender esta enfermedad de los erizos de mar.

Resumen Introducción: Los parásitos intestinales afectan particularmente a grupos poblacionales vulnerables siendo de importancia su abordaje en zonas endémicas. Objetivo: Evaluar la relación de parásitos intestinales con características socioeconómicas y estado nutricional antropométrico. Metodos: Estudio observacional, y transversal en niños de 1 a 15 años de Tartagal, Argentina durante un año. Las parasitosis intestinales se determinaron por análisis de materia fecal usando técnicas de sedimentación (Teleman) y Kato Katz, y el método de Baerman. Los datos demográficos y socioeconómicos se colectaron con una encuesta estandarizada. Se midió talla, peso, perímetro braquial y cefálico a los participantes. Resultados: De los 588 participantes que entregaron materia fecal, el 55.4% presentó parásitos intestinales, siendo Giardia lamblia e Hymenolepis nana las especies más prevalentes. El 31.9% de los participantes presentaron malnutrición por exceso. Los factores de riesgo para la presencia de parásitos intestinales fueron la edad, el hacinamiento y caminar descalzo, mientras que tenencia de heladera, corral para animales, almacenamiento de agua adecuado y pertenecer a la etnia Guaraní, actuaron como factores protectores. Se observaron zonas de alta vulnerabilidad de las viviendas y de acceso a servicios públicos. Conclusiones: Se evidenció una asociación entre las condiciones socioeconómicas y el riesgo de presencia de parásitos intestinales. Sin embargo, no se observó asociación entre el estado nutricional antropométrico y la presencia de parásitos intestinales.

Abstract Introduction: Intestinal parasites particularly affect vulnerable populations, making their management crucial in endemic areas. Objective: To evaluate the relationship between intestinal parasites, socioeconomic characteristics, and anthropometric nutritional status. Methods: This is an observational, cross-sectional study conducted on children aged 1 to 15 years in Tartagal, Argentina, for a year. Intestinal parasitic infections were determined through fecal analysis using sedimentation techniques (Teleman), Kato-Katz, and the Baerman method. Demographic and socioeconomic data were collected using a standardized survey. Height, weight, and mid-upper arm and head circumference were measured in the participants. Results: Of the 588 participants who provided fecal samples, 55.4% had intestinal parasites, with G. lamblia and H. nana being the most prevalent species. Additionally, 31.9% of participants were found to have malnutrition due to excess weight. Risk factors for intestinal parasite presence included age, overcrowding, and walking barefoot, while owning a refrigerator, having an animal corral, adequate water storage, and belonging to the Guaraní ethnic group were protective factors. High vulnerability areas were observed regarding housing conditions and access to public services. Conclusions: An association between socioeconomic conditions and the risk of intestinal parasite presence was observed. However, no association was found between anthropometric nutritional status and the presence of intestinal parasites.

Abstract There are numerous examples of endophytic fungal parasites of plants that can prevent them from flowering or producing seeds. Among these are Ustilaginales fungi that can cause smut on host plants. This contribution addresses the interaction between Digitaria sanguinalis (Ds), an important weed, and Ustilago syntherismae. Since 2004, both populations have been monitored on a plot with an agricultural past at Torre Marimon (Caldes de Montbui, Barcelona). We present data relating to the 2009-2017 period on the density of Ds individuals present at the end of the annual cycle (autumn), obtained through regular sampling using quadrats of 0.25 m2. Three phenotypes were differentiated according to the following morphological characteristics: a) apparently normal plants with spikelets in their inflorescences; b) completely smutted plants with sori in their apical part; and c) plants (partially smutted, PS) that presented both spikelets and sori in different mainstem/tillers. For the period 2011-2014, data on the reproductive potential and interannual variability (number of inflorescences with spikelets/number of sori per individual) of the three aforementioned groups are presented and compared. Although both the average annual density of PS individuals (4.7 i m-2) and their average annual contribution to the number of spikelets/sori are low (31/168 structures m-2 respectively), we briefly discuss, within the scenario of the possible use of the fungus as a biological control agent, the relevance that these individuals may have for analysing, from a genetic perspective, the type of resistance they present.

Resumen Son numerosos los ejemplos de parásitos fúngicos endófitos de plantas que pueden impedir que éstas florezcan o produzcan semillas. Entre ellos se encuentran los hongos ustilaginales que pueden generar carbón en las plantas hospedantes. En esta contribución se aborda la interacción entre Digitaria sanguinalis (Ds), una mala hierba importante, y Ustilago syntherismae. Desde 2004 se han seguido ambas poblaciones en una parcela con historial agrícola de Torre Marimon (Caldes de Montbui, Barcelona). En esta aportación se presentan datos del período 2009-2017 de la densidad de individuos de Ds presentes al final del ciclo anual (otoño), obtenida mediante un muestreo regular utilizando cuadrados de 0.25 m2. Se diferenciaron tres fenotipos de acuerdo con las siguientes características morfológicas: a) plantas aparentemente normales con espiguillas en sus inflorescencias; b) plantas completamente castradas con soros (carbón) en su parte apical; y c) plantas (parcialmente castradas, PPC) que presentaban tanto espiguillas como soros en distintos ápices de los hijuelos. Para el período 2011-2014 se presentan datos del potencial reproductivo y la variabilidad interanual (número de inflorescencias con espiguillas/número de soros por individuo) de los tres grupos señalados y se comparan entre ellos. Aunque tanto la densidad media anual de individuos PPC (4.7 i m-2), como su aportación media anual en el número de espiguillas/soros son bajas (31/168 estructuras m-2 respectivamente), se discute brevemente, en el marco del posible uso del hongo como agente de control biológico, la relevancia que pueden tener estos individuos para analizar, desde una perspectiva genética, el tipo de resistencia que presentan.

Abstract Leishmaniosis is a disease caused by protozoan parasites of the genus Leishmania and, in the New World, is transmitted to mammals through the bite of blood-sucking dipteran insects of the genus Lutzomyia. Canines are susceptible to infection, developing the visceral form (VL) and the cutaneous form (CL) of the disease. Diagnostic methods include direct observation of the parasite by light microscopy, serology, or molecular biology techniques in samples from dogs with clinical signs and/or clinical suspicion. In this word, the usefulness of a nested PCR designed for the diagnosis of this pathology in dogs was evaluated. A total of 18 samples of EDTA pre-treated dog’s whole blood were analyzed. Dogs were from the city of Corrientes and presented clinical suspicion of suffering from leishmaniasis. From the samples, deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) was extracted and two successive rounds of amplification of a sequence that codes for the small subunit of ribosomal RNA were carried out. The results obtained from the nested PCRs were compared with this obtained from the direct parasitological method (gold standard). The applied technique showed a sensitivity of 100%, specificity of 75%, positive predictive value of 67% and negative predictive value of 100%, turning it into a valuable tool for diagnosing canine leishmaniosis.

Resumen La leishmaniosis es una enfermedad causada por parásitos protozoarios del género Leishmania y transmitida a mamíferos mediante la picadura de insectos dípteros hematófagos del género Lutzomyia en el nuevo mundo. Los caninos son susceptibles de adquirir la forma visceral y la forma cutánea de la enfermedad. Los métodos de diagnóstico incluyen observación directa del parásito por microscopía óptica, serología o técnicas de biología molecular en muestras de perros con signos clínicos evidentes y/o sospecha clínica. En este estudio se evaluó la utilidad de una reacción en cadena de la polimerasa anidada (PCRn) para el diagnóstico de dicha patología en perros. Se analizaron 18 muestras de sangre entera anticoagulada con EDTA de perros de la ciudad de Corrientes con sospecha clínica de padecer leishmaniosis. A partir de las mismas, se extrajo ácido desoxiribonucleico (ADN) y se realizaron dos rondas de amplificación sucesivas de una secuencia que codifica para la subunidad pequeña de ARN ribosomal. Los resultados obtenidos de las PCR anidadas fueron comparados con los resultados obtenidos a partir del método parasitológico directo considerado como gold standard. La técnica aplicada mostró sensibilidad del 100%, especificidad del 75%, valor predictivo positivo del 67% y valor predictivo negativo del 100% lo que la convierte en una herramienta útil para el diagnóstico de leishmaniosis canina.