Resumen Antecedentes: En los pseudoaneurismas infectados de arteria femoral asociados al uso de drogas intravenosas, la ligadura primaria para el tratamiento causa controversia, sin embargo, el territorio comprometido puede continuar irrigado por vías colaterales. Objetivo: Reportar la experiencia del manejo de pseudoaneurismas en un servicio de angiología y cirugía vascular. Métodos: Estudio observacional, descriptivo de una serie de casos. Resultados: Se reportan 15 pacientes, relación hombre: mujer 14:1, promedio de edad de 42 años. Siete (46.6%) con presentación de pseudoaneurisma femoral izquierdo, 5 (33.3%) de ellos con presentación de pseudoaneurisma femoral derecho, 2 (13.3%) con pseudoaneurisma humeral derecho y uno (6.6%) con pseudoaneurisma humeral izquierdo. En 12 se realizó exclusión del pseudoaneurisma con triple ligadura; y 3 pacientes fueron sometidos a revascularización. Conclusiones: En nuestra experiencia, la ligadura primaria sin revascularización tuvo incidencia de amputación baja y supervivencia alta de los pacientes afectados, siendo la claudicación la secuela más frecuente.

Abstract Background: In intravenous drug-infected femoral pseudoaneurysms, primary ligation for treatment is controversial, but the compromised territory can remain irrigated by collateral routes. Objective: To report the experience in the management of pseudoaneurysms in our angiology and vascular surgery service. Methods: Observational, descriptive study of a series of cases. Results: 15 patients are reported, male: female ratio 14:1, average age 42 years. Seven (46.6%) presented with a left femoral pseudoaneurysm, 5 (33.3%) presented with a right femoral pseudoaneurysm, 2 (13.3%) with a right brachial pseudoaneurysm, and one (6.6%) with a left brachial pseudoaneurysm. In 12, exclusion of the pseudoaneurysm was performed with triple ligation; 3 patients underwent revascularization. Conclusions: In our experience the primary ligature without revascularization has a low incidence of amputation and high survival of affected patients, being claudication the most frequent sequel.

Resumen Introducción : Las características clínicas y evolutivas de los pacientes con diagnóstico de COVID-19 pueden diferir entre las distintas olas de la pandemia. El objetivo de este estudio fue comparar las características clínicas, evolución y mortalidad de pacientes hospitalizados por COVID-19 durante la primera y segunda ola en Argentina. Métodos : Registro multicéntrico y prospectivo de pacientes ≥ 18 años con diagnóstico confirmado de COVID-19 internados en 18 hospitales de Argentina durante la primera (marzo a octubre 2020) y la segunda ola (marzo a julio 2021) de la pandemia. Se compararon variables demográficas, características clínicas, y evolu ción a 30 días. Resultados : Se incluyeron un total de 1691 pacien tes (primera ola n = 809, segunda ola n = 882). Los pa cientes hospitalizados durante la segunda ola tenían mayor edad (mediana 53 años vs. 61 años, p < 0.001), comorbilidades (71% vs. 77%, p = 0.007) y requerimiento de oxígeno (21% vs. 62%, p < 0.001). Durante la hospi talización, los pacientes de la segunda ola requirieron más oxigenoterapia (49% vs. 85%, p < 0.001), asistencia mecánica respiratoria (12% vs. 22%, p <0,001) y presen taron mayor mortalidad (11% vs. 26%, p < 0.001). Compa rando únicamente a los que requirieron oxigenoterapia durante la hospitalización, la mortalidad a los 30 días fue de 20% y 30% p < 0.001 en la primera y segunda ola respectivamente. Conclusión : Comparados con los pacientes interna dos durante la primera ola, los internados durante la segunda ola de SARS-CoV-2 en Argentina presentaron mayor gravedad y mortalidad.

Abstract Introduction : Clinical features and outcomes of SARS-CoV-2 infections may change between different waves of the pandemic. The objective of this study was to compare clinical characteristics and outcomes between two cohorts of patients hospitalized for COVID-19 during the first and second waves in Argentina. Methods : Multicenter and prospective registry of patients ≥18 years old with a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19 admitted to 18 hospitals in Argentina during the first wave (March to October 2020) and second wave (March to July 2021) of the pandemic. Demographics, clinical characteristics, and outcomes of these patients were compared. Results : A total of 1691 patients were included (first wave n = 809, second wave n = 882). Hospitalized pa tients during the second wave were older (median 53 years vs. 61 years, p < 0.001), had more comorbidities (71% vs. 77%, p=0.007) and required more supplemental oxygen at admission (21% vs 62%, p < 0.001). During hos pitalization, patients of the second wave required more supplemental oxygen (49% vs. 85%, p < 0.001), invasive ventilation (12% vs. 22%, p < 0.001) and had higher 30- day mortality (11% vs. 26%, p < 0.001). Comparing only patients who required supplemental oxygen during hos pitalization, 30-day mortality was 20% and 30% p < 0.001 for the first and second wave, respectively. Conclusion : Compared to patients admitted during the first wave, patients admitted with SARS-CoV2 dur ing the second wave in Argentina were more seriously ill and had a higher mortality.

ABSTRACT The purpose of the study was to identify the endohelminths of the native fish Galaxias maculatus and Basilichthys australis in Lake Pullinque Chile, determine their prevalence, mean intensity, mean abundance, their zoonotic potential, describe new taxa for Chile, and evaluate the potential histopathological changes in parasitized samples of intestine of B. australis. Trematodes (Steganoderma szidati, Acanthostomoides apophalliformis, Tylodelphys sp, Posthodiplostomum sp) nematodes (Contracaecum sp, Camallanus corderoi and Eustrongylides sp) and the acanthocephalan Acanthocephalus tumescens was reported in G. maculatus. Tylodelphys sp presented the highest prevalence (97%) and mean abundance (21.1), while Posthodiplostomum sp showed the highest mean intensity (33.5). Trematodes (Limnoderetrema tolosai, Austrodiplostomum mordax and Tylodelphys destructor) and nematodes (Contracaecum sp, Hysterothylacium geschei and C. corderoi) were identified in B. australis. The highest prevalence (100%), mean intensity (71.9) and mean abundance (71.9) corresponded to L. tolosai. The histopathological study in B. australis showed adults of L. tolosai adhered to the surface of the intestinal mucosa, damaging the epithelium of the villi, and larvae of Contracaecum sp encapsulated and associated with mild congestion and few mononuclear cells in the connective tissue of the submucosa. All taxa were recorded for the first time in fish from Lake Pullinque. Eustrongylides sp and S. szidati were described for the first time in Chile being Eustrongylides sp the only potentially zoonotic taxon.

RESUMEN El propósito del estudio fue identificar los endohelmintos de los peces nativos Galaxias maculatus y Basilichthys australis en el lago Pullinque, Chile, determinar su prevalencia, intensidad media, abundancia media, su potencial zoonótico, describir los taxones nuevos para Chile y evaluar potenciales cambios histopatológicos en muestras parasitadas de intestino de B. australis. En G. maculatus se reportaron trematodos (Steganoderma szidati, Acanthostomoides apophalliformis, Tylodelphys sp, Posthodiplostomum sp), nematodos (Contracaecum sp, Camallanus corderoi y Eustrongylides sp) y el acantocéfalo Acanthocephalus tumescens. Tylodelphys sp presentó la mayor prevalencia (97%) y abundancia media (21.1), mientras que Posthodiplostomum sp mostró la mayor intensidad media (33.5). En B. australis se identificaron trematodos (Limnoderetrema tolosai, Austrodiplostomum mordax y Tylodelphys destructor) y nematodos (Contracaecum sp, Hysterothylacium geschei y C. corderoi). La mayor prevalencia (100%), intensidad media (71.9) y abundancia media (71.9) correspondieron a L. tolosai. El estudio histopatológico en B. australis mostró adultos de L. tolosai adheridos a la superficie de la mucosa intestinal, dañando el epitelio de las vellosidades, y larvas de Contracaecum sp encapsuladas y asociadas a una leve congestión y escasas células mononucleares en el tejido conectivo de la submucosa. Todos los taxones fueron registrados por primera vez en peces del lago Pullinque. Eustrongylides sp y S. szidati fueron descritas por primera vez en Chile, siendo Eustrongylides sp. el único taxón potencialmente zoonótico.

ABSTRACT Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) in the environment represents a danger to people's health. Conventional methods for monitoring H2S require absorbent solutions, which usually contains harmful substances such as cadmium sulphate (CdSO4). Constant exposure to cadmium sulphate may cause health damage. In the present work, Ulvan polysaccharides were evaluated as additives in the preparation of absorbent solutions for H2S(g) capture. The resultant Ulvan-based solution featured low content of harmful substances such as cadmium sulphate, sodium hydroxide, and arabinogalactan. The parameters used to validate the performance of the prepared Ulvan-based absorbent solutions included linearity, precision, selectivity, working range, detection limit, quantification limit, robustness, and uncertainty. The relative standard deviation of repeatability (%RSD) was compared to the Horwitz's %RSD. It was found that %RSD was less than Horwitz's %RSD. This showed that measurements were accurate. The linearity of the calibration curve made with the Ulvan-based solutions featured a coefficient of determination (R2) higher than 0.995. The limit of detection (LOD) and quantification (LDQ) values of H2S(g) were 0.13 µg/m3 and 0.26 µg/m3, respectively. Finally, the groups evaluated at different color reaction times were robust. This showed that the determination of H2S(g) content using the Ulvan-based absorbent solution could be performed under normal conditions without affecting the reproducibility of the results. The modified and optimized method with Ulvan polysaccharides complied with the required acceptance parameters proposed. These results showed that Ulvan represents a potential alternative for applications related to detecting polluting gases such as H2S(g).

RESUMEN La presencia de ácido sulfhídrico (H2S) en el medio ambiente representa un peligro para la salud de las personas. Los métodos convencionales para la detección de H2S requieren del uso de soluciones captadoras, las cuales contienen sulfato de cadmio (CdSO4), hidróxido de sodio (NaOH) y arabinogalactano, que a su vez puede provocar daños en la salud por una constante exposición. En el presente trabajo se validó el uso de polisacáridos Ulvan, como aditivo reemplazante en la preparación de la solución absorbente del contaminante gaseoso ácido sulfhídrico (H2S) según la metodología COVENIN 3571:2000 Calidad de aire. Determinación de la concentración sulfuro de hidrogeno (H2S(g)) en la atmosfera. Los resultados obtenidos en la validación del método modificado (porque se modificó la solución absorbente) fueron analizados a través de parámetros como linealidad, precisión, veracidad, selectividad, rango de trabajo, límite de detección, límite de cuantificación, robustez e incertidumbre. Se determinó que los datos obtenidos fueron precisos debido a que el % de desviación estándar relativa (RSD) de repetibilidad fue menor al %RSD de Horwitz. Además, a partir de la curva de calibración, se comprobó la linealidad satisfactoria del método modificado con polisacáridos Ulvan debido a que el coeficiente de determinación (R2) fue superior a 0.995. Los valores límite de detección (LOD) y cuantificación (LDQ) de H2S fueron de 0.47 µg/m3 y 1.88 µg/m3, respectivamente. Finalmente, las evaluaciones a distintos tiempos de desarrollo del color azul de metileno fueron robustos, y se pueden trabajar en condiciones normales sin afectar la reproducibilidad de los resultados. El método modificado y optimizado con la presencia de polisacáridos Ulvan fue validado cumpliendo con los parámetros requeridos de aceptación propuestos. De esta manera, se concluyó que el Ulvan representan una potencial alternativa para aplicaciones en la detección de gases contaminantes como el H2S(g).

Abstract: Objective: To present the results of a total laparoscopic hysterectomy reverse modified technique. Material and methods: This surgical technique was performed on a population of 520 patients with benign uterine pathology in the period of January 2010 and December 2015. Results: Of the 520 patients included in the present study, the average time of surgery was 101.7 ± 39.79 min, with a minimum of 30 min and a maximum time of 255 min. The initial diagnosis was uterine myoma (94.2%), abnormal uterine bleeding, and endometriosis in 6.69%. The average trans-surgical hemorrhage was 79.44 ± 115.25 mL, with a minimum of 30 mL and a maximum of 2L. Of the patients with significant trans-surgical hemorrhage, 5 (0.96%) presented hemorrhage above 500 mL and only 1 (0.19%) presented hemorrhage above 2,000 mL. A total of 29 (5.57%) complications were reported, with an incidence of 3.07% of major complications, usually related to a ureteral injury. Average uterine weight was 230.71 g. As for hospital stay, the average was 2.1 ± 1.99 days. Conclusions: This technique is able to adapt to multiple clinical contexts in practice, which is why we consider it a valid and safe technique for laparoscopic hysterectomy.

Resumen: Objetivo: Demostrar los resultados de una técnica de histerectomía total laparoscópica reversa modificada. Material y métodos: Se realizó la técnica en 520 pacientes sometidos a histerectomía laparoscópica por patología benigna uterina entre enero de 2010 y diciembre de 2015. Resultados: De las 520 pacientes incluidas en este estudio, el tiempo quirúrgico promedio fue de 101.7 ± 39.79 min, con un mínimo de 30 min y un máximo de 255 min. El diagnóstico de envío fue 94.2% por miomatosis uterina. El otro 6.69% fue por sangrado uterino anormal y endometriosis. El sangrado promedio fue de 79.44 ± 115.25 mL. En cuanto al total de complicaciones (mayores y menores) se registraron 29 incidentes (5.57%), con una incidencia de complicaciones mayor de 3.07%, en su mayoría debido a lesiones a uréteres. En cuanto a hemorragia, sólo cinco (0.96%) presentaron un sangrado mayor de 500 mL y sólo una (0.19%) presentó hemorragia mayor de 2,000 mL. El peso uterino promedio fue de 230.71 g. El promedio de estancia intrahospitalaria fue de 2.1 ± 1.99 días. Conclusiones: Esta técnica es reproducible y adaptable a muchos contextos encontrados en la práctica, por lo cual consideramos que es una técnica válida y segura para realizar la histerectomía laparoscópica.

Abstract Background: Rivers and their associated vegetation are considered highly complex natural systems representing high biodiversity areas that work as biological corridors. Nevertheless, riparian vegetation of the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve (MBBR) has not been studied nor considered in the reserve’s management program. Questions: Which is the composition, structure, diversity, and state of conservation of the riparian vegetation of the MBBR? Study site and dates: The Senguio Microbasin, part of Sierra Chincua Priority Terrestrial Region, within the MBBR, in central México. 2016-2017. Methods: Using high-resolution imagery from 2014, we identified five joint categories in relation to the protection status (Core Zone, Buffer Zone, and Influence Area) and land use (conserved forest, highly disturbed forest, and farmland). We sampled three sites per category (N = 15) to analyze the composition, richness, and α and β diversity of the riparian communities. Results: We registered 108 species, 46 genera, and 18 families, of which 98 % are native and 2 % exotic. Richness and α-diversity were not significantly different among sites, but the composition and β-diversity showed significant differences depending on land use. The riparian vegetation is well conserved both in the Reserve´s Core and Buffer zones, and preserves high coverage, species richness, and individuals’ abundance. Conclusions: The riparian vegetation of the Senguio Microbasin hosts a biodiversity richness critical for the ecosystem’s health and evidences the relevance of considering the human use of the riparian systems to succeed in the conservation strategies.

Resumen Antecedentes: Los ríos y su vegetación asociada son sistemas naturales complejos que forman corredores biológicos de alta diversidad. En la Reserva de la Biosfera Mariposa Monarca (RBMM), la vegetación riparia no ha sido estudiada ni considerada en su programa de manejo. Preguntas: ¿Cuál es la composición, estructura, diversidad y estado de conservación de la vegetación riparia de la RBMM? Sitio y años de estudio: Microcuenca Senguio (Región Terrestre Prioritaria Sierra Chincua y RBMM), centro de México. 2016-2017. Métodos: Mediante imágenes de satélite de alta resolución identificamos cinco categorías integradas en relación con el estatus de protección (Zona Núcleo, Zona de Amortiguamiento y Área de Influencia) y uso del suelo (bosque conservado, bosque perturbado y tierras agrícolas). Muestreamos tres sitios por categoría (N = 15) y analizamos composición, riqueza y diversidad α y β de la vegetación riparia. Resultados: Registramos 108 especies (98 % nativas y 2 % exóticas), 46 géneros y 18 familias. La riqueza y la diversidad α no fueron significativamente diferentes entre los sitios muestreados. La composición y la diversidad β mostraron diferencias según el uso del suelo. La vegetación riparia de esta microcuenca está bien conservada tanto en Zona Núcleo como de Amortiguamiento, manteniendo alta cobertura, riqueza de especies y abundancia de individuos. Conclusiones: La vegetación riparia de la Microcuenca Senguio alberga una riqueza de biodiversidad fundamental para el estado del ecosistema, y pone en relieve la necesidad de considerar el manejo de los sistemas riparios para contribuir al éxito de las estrategias de conservación.

Resumen Se analiza el aumento del nivel del mar tomando como base el nivel promedio de mareas altas para la región Caribe de Costa Rica. Este estudio se realizó a partir de modelos conceptuales, observaciones y mediciones efectuadas en campo, que presentan un nivel del mar y su respectivo ascenso para cuatro escenarios de acuerdo con los siguientes años: 2030, 2050, 2070 y 2100. Se elaboran escenarios para simular el comportamiento del nivel del mar relativo en los próximos 100 años para las localidades de Cahuita y Moín en la provincia de Limón. Se estudian los niveles de mareas astronómicas a partir de predicciones mareales. El aumento del nivel del mar en los próximos años por calentamiento global es, según los escenarios de la CEPAL (2012, p. 24), 3 mm por año para la costa del Caribe en general y se utiliza como base para crear las distintas combinaciones y generar los niveles mareográficos representados en este artículo. Los resultados muestran los niveles de inundación para cada uno de los años en las localidades de Moín y Cahuita e indica que ambas localidades podrían ser inundadas para el año 2100.

Abstract Sea level rise is analyzed based on the average level of high tides registered for the Caribbean region of Costa Rica. The present study utilized conceptual models, field observations and field measurements, which provide sea level data and its respective rise, for the modelling of possible scenarios for four different years: 2030, 2050, 2070 and 2100. Scenarios were developed to simulate the behavior of the relative sea level in the next 100 years for the localities of Cahuita and Moín, both in the province of Limón, Costa Rica. Astronomical tidal levels are studied from tidal predictions. The rise in sea level in the coming years due to global warming is, according to ECLAC scenarios/predictions CEPAL (2012, p. 24), 3 mm per year for the Caribbean coast in general and is used as a basis for the creation of the different combinations and generation of the tidal levels represented in the present article. Results show flood levels for each considered year and indicate that both Moín and Cahuita could be flooded by the year 2100.

Abstract Atractus badius has a long and controversial nomenclatural history due to both its antiquity and the brevity of its original description. This species was described based on two syntypes from Java. Later, a lectotype was designated and the distribution range restricted to the Guiana Shield. Although this species has been repeatedly recorded throughout Amazonia and the Andes, these records have been erroneously assigned to A. badius because of a considerable level of confusion in the literature. We found 13 additional specimens of this poorly known snake, expanding our knowledge on its morphological variability, phylogenetic relationships and distribution. In this paper, we report new localities and data on meristic, morphometric, coloration, scales micro-ornamentation, osteology and hemipenial morphology to A. badius. We also determine the phylogenetic position of A. badius as nested in a composite Guiana Shield clade. In addition, we discuss recent advances on the systematics of Atractus and comment on some ‘new arrangements’ with respect to previously recognized species groups and available morphological evidence. Finally, we highlight the importance of accurate voucher identification before promoting taxonomic changes or implementing nomenclatural acts derived from new phylogenetic hypotheses, and notably propose the synonymy of the recently described A. pyroni with A. roulei.

Resumo Fluoroquinolonas são agentes antimicrobianos importantes para o tratamento de infecções por Pseudomonas. Um total de 11 bacilos isolados de P. aeruginosa foram coletados de diferentes amostras clínicas provenientes de diferentes centros médicos na Cisjordânia-Palestina durante o ano de 2017. Neste estudo, resistência a fluoroquinolonas e secreções de β-lactamases foram detectadas por métodos fenotípicos, enquanto a presença de sequências do gene β-lactamase e outros fatores de virulência foram detectados pela técnica de PCR (Proteína C-reativa). O produto de PCR para os genes gyrA, parC e parE foram sequenciados para análises posteriores. As análises filogenéticas, os índices de diversidade populacional e a determinação de haplótipos foram realizados utilizando os softwares MEGA versão 6, DnaSP 5.1001 e o algoritmo de junção de mediana do programa Network 5, respectivamente. Os resultados deste estudo mostraram que a MIC para ciprofloxacina e norfloxacina tinha um intervalo de 32-256 µg/ml. Além disso, todos os bacilos isolados carregavam genes exoT ou exoT e exoY, genes de β-lactamase diferentes e 82% desses isolados continham integrons de classe 1. As análises das sequências gyrA, parC e parE foram consideradas polimórficas, com alta diversidade de haplótipos (0,945-0,982), baixa diversidade de nucleotídeos (0,01225-0,02001) e o número de haplótipos foi de 9 para cada gene de gyrA e parE e 10 haplótipos para o gene parC. Os haplótipos fundadores são Hap-1 (18%), Hap-2 (27,3%) e Hap-6 (9,1%) para os genes gyrA, parC e parE, respectivamente. Dois dos haplótipos parE foram detectados como haplótipos InDel. As redes Median-joining (MJ) construídas a partir de haplótipos desses genes mostraram uma expansão semelhante à de uma estrela. Os testes de neutralidade (teste D de Tajima e teste Fs de Fu) para esses genes apresentaram valores negativos. As cepas palestinas de P. aeruginosa resistentes a fluoroquinolonas mostraram alto nível de MIC para fluoroquinolonas, produtores de β-lactamase, genes codificadores de exotoxina de secreção tipo III, a maioria deles tinha o gene integrase I e tinha alto nível de mutações nas regiões QRDR nos genes gyrA, parC e parE. Todos esses fatores podem desempenhar um papel importante na invasão dessas cepas e torná-las difíceis de tratar. O isolamento dessas cepas em diferentes centros médicos, indica a necessidade de uma aplicação estrita de medidas de controle de infecção em centros médicos da Cisjordânia-Palestina que visam reduzir despesas e danos causados por infecções por P. aeruginosa. As análises moleculares mostraram que os haplótipos de P. aeruginosa resistentes à fluoroquinolona palestina não são geneticamente diferenciados; no entanto, mais mutações podem existir nessas cepas.

Abstract Fluoroquinolones are important antimicrobial agents for the treatment of Pseudomonas infections. A total of 11 isolates of P. aeruginosa were collected from different clinical samples from different medical centers in the North West Bank-Palestine during 2017. In this study, resistance to fluoroquinolones and secretions of β-lactamases were detected by phenotypic methods, while presence of β-lactamase gene sequences and other virulence factors were detected by PCR technique. PCR product for gyrA, parC and parE genes were sequenced for further analyses. The phylogenetic analyses, population diversity indices and haplotypes determination were conducted using computer programs MEGA version 6, DnaSP 5.1001 and median-joining algorithm in the program Network 5, respectively. Results of this study showed that the MIC for ciprofloxacin and norfloxacin had a range of 32-256 µg/ml. In addition, all isolates carried either exoT or exoT and exoY genes, different β-lactamase genes and 82% of these isolates harbored class 1 integrons. Analyses of the gyrA, parC and parE sequences were found to be polymorphic, had high haplotype diversity (0.945-0.982), low nucleotide diversity (0.01225-0.02001) and number of haplotypes were 9 for each gyrA and parE genes and 10 haplotypes for parC gene. The founder haplotypes being Hap-1 (18%), Hap-2 (27.3%) and Hap-6 (9.1%) for gyrA, parC and parE genes, respectively. Two of ParE haplotypes were detected as indel haplotypes. The Median-joining- (MJ) networks constructed from haplotypes of these genes showed a star-like expansion. The neutrality tests (Tajima’s D test and Fu’s Fs test) for these genes showed negative values. Palestinian fluoroquinolone resistant P. aeruginosa strains showed high MIC level for fluoroquinolones, β-lactamase producers, carried type III secretion exotoxin-encoding genes, most of them had integrase I gene and had high level of mutations in QRDR regions in gyrA, parC and parE genes. All these factors may play an important role in the invasiveness of these strains and make them difficult to treat. Isolation of these strains from different medical centers, indicate the need for a strict application of infection control measures in Medical centers in the North West Bank-Palestine that aim to reduce expense and damage caused by P. aeruginosa infections. Molecular analyses showed that Palestinian fluoroquinolone resistant P. aeruginosa haplotypes are not genetically differentiated; however, more mutations may exist in these strains.

Abstract The relationship of body weight and length with sperm load and spermatophore weight was evaluated in wild males of Macrobrachium tenellum (Smith, 1871). In addition, the influence of a commercial and natural feed on the load and viability of sperm was determined in wild males. In 28 wild males spermatophore extraction was performed by electrostimulation 24 h after capture to analyze the relationship between body length/weight and sperm load and viability, respectively. Spermatophore weight (SW), total number (TS), dead (DS) and abnormal sperm cells (AS) were used as indicators of sperm viability. The results obtained show that there is a positive correlation between TS per spermatophore compared to body length and weight of the male. To study the effect of different diets on sperm load, three diets were employed: Diet A, commercial shrimp feed; Diet B, natural feed (mixture of squid, sardine and clam); and Diet C, combination of natural and commercial diet. To assess the initial reproductive status of the males at the beginning of the experiment, sperm viability was determined in a subsample of specimens after capture. Broodstock were fed ad libitum once a day during 70 days. TS, DS, AS and SW were evaluated. The results of the bioassay did not show differences between treatments in the parameters analyzed, except DS, which was higher in the initial group. In conclusion, the present work suggests that it is feasible to substitute fresh feed for an artificial diet for the maintenance in captivity of male M. tenellum broodstock shrimp.

Abstract For 175 years, an unremarkable bass, the Grape-eye Seabass (Hemilutjanus macrophthalmos), has been known from coastal waters in the Eastern Pacific. To date, its phylogenetic placement and classification have been ignored. A preliminary osteological examination of Hemilutjanus hinted that it may have affinities with the Acropomatiformes. To test this hypothesis, we conducted a phylogenetic analysis using UCE and Sanger sequence data to study the placement of Hemilutjanus and the limits and relationships of the Acropomatiformes. We show that Hemilutjanus is a malakichthyid, and our results corroborate earlier studies that have resolved a polyphyletic Polyprionidae; accordingly, we describe Stereolepididae, new family, for Stereolepis. With these revisions, the Acropomatiformes is now composed of the: Acropomatidae; Banjosidae; Bathyclupeidae; Champsodontidae; Creediidae; Dinolestidae; Epigonidae; Glaucosomatidae; Hemerocoetidae; Howellidae; Lateolabracidae; Malakichthyidae; Ostracoberycidae; Pempheridae; Pentacerotidae; Polyprionidae; Scombropidae; Stereolepididae, new family; Symphysanodontidae; Synagropidae; and Schuettea. Finally, using our new hypothesis, we demonstrate that acropomatiforms repeatedly evolved bioluminescence and transitioned between shallow waters and the deep sea.

Resumen Durante más de 175 años el Serranido ojo de uva (Hemilutjanus macrophthalmos), un pez parecido a la lubina común, se conoce de las zonas costeras del Pacífico Oriental. Al día de hoy la posición filogenética de esta especie se desconoce. Un estudio preliminar de Hemilutjanus basado en caracteres osteológicos sugirió que esta especie puede tener afinidades con el orden Acropomatiformes. Para investigar la posición filogenética de Hemilutjanus y los límites y relaciones dentro del orden Acropomatiformes realizamos análisis filogenéticos utilizando datos de secuencias Sanger y de UCEs. Demostramos que Hemilutjanus es un malakichthyid y nuestros resultados recobran Polyprionidae como una familia polifilética corroboran así estudios anteriores. En consecuencia, diagnosticamos y describimos una nueva familia de peces, Stereolepididae, que incluye ambas especies del genero Stereolepis. Con esta revisión, ahora el orden Acropomatiformes se compone de las familias: Acropomatidae; Banjosidae; Bathyclupeidae; Champsodontidae; Creediidae; Dinolestidae; Epigonidae; Glaucosomatidae; Hemerocoetidae; Howellidae; Lateolabracidae; Malakichthyidae; Ostracoberycidae; Pempheridae; Pentacerotidae; Polyprionidae; Scombropidae; Stereolepididae, nueva familia; Symphysanodontidae; Synagropidae; y Schuettea. Finalmente, utilizando nuestra hipótesis filogenética, demostramos que bioluminiscencia ha evolucionado varias veces dentro de los miembros de Acropomatiformes y tambien demostramos múltiples transiciones entre aguas someras y zonas profundas del océano dentro de este grupo.

Resumen La marchitez vascular del jitomate (Solanum lycopersicum L.) es una de las enfermedades más importantes que afecta la producción alrededor del mundo. El control biológico ha emergido como una de las alternativas más promisorias al uso de fungicidas químicos. El objetivo de esta investigación fue diagnosticar el agente causal de la enfermedad y probar la efectividad in vitro de compuestos comerciales biológicos, botánicos y químicos contra el patógeno. Se realizó el aislamiento monospórico del hongo, se extrajo y amplificó el ADN de las regiones ITS1 e ITS2 del ADN ribosomal y del fragmento del gen del factor de elongación de la traducción (TEF-1α). Las secuencias se compararon con las reportadas en la base del NCBI mediante el software BLAST-N. En el Ensayo I se evaluó la efectividad contra el patógeno de los metabolitos difusibles en PDA de las cepas nativas Trichoderma sp. y T. asperellum, además de las comerciales T. virens G-41 y T. harzianum. En el Ensayo II se evaluó in vitro la fungitoxicidad de pesticidas químicos y botánicos contra el hongo. Ambos ensayos se realizaron usando un diseño completamente al azar, con cuatro repeticiones. Se realizó el ANOVA y la prueba de Tukey (P = 0.05). Se identificó al agente causal como Fusarium solani. Los controladores Trichoderma sp. y T. virens G-41 presentaron la máxima efectividad, con 77.19 y 77.81 % de reducción del crecimiento micelial del hongo. Zineb, extracto de canela, neem y ajo redujeron entre 30 y 43.75 % el crecimiento del patógeno. Comparativamente, el oxicloruro de cobre, captan, carbendazim, mancoceb y benomilo controlaron 100 % a F. solani. Se concluye que los pesticidas biológicos y botánicos actúan como fungistáticos contra F. solani y los fungicidas de contacto son efectivos para suprimir el crecimiento del patógeno.

Summary The vascular wilt of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is one of the most important diseases that affect production around the world. Biological control has emerged as one of the most promising alternatives to the use of chemical fungicides. The aim of this research was to diagnose the causative agent of the disease and to test the in vitro effectiveness of commercial biological, botanical and chemical compounds against the pathogen. Monosporic isolation of the fungus was performed, the DNA was extracted and amplified from the ITS1 and ITS2 regions of the ribosomal DNA and from the gene fragment of the translation elongation factor (TEF-1α). The sequences were compared with those reported in the NCBI database using BLAST-N software. In Trial I, the effectiveness against the pathogen of diffusible metabolites in PDA of the native Trichoderma sp. and T. asperellum, in addition to the commercial T. virens G-41 and T. harzianum. In Test II, the fungitoxicity of chemical and botanical pesticides against the fungus was tested in vitro. Both trials were conducted using a completely randomized design with four repetitions. The ANOVA and the Tukey test (P = 0.05) were performed. The causative agent was identified as Fusarium solani. Trichoderma sp. and T. virens G-41 caused the highest percentage of fungal mycelial growth inhibition, with 77.19 and 77.81%. Zineb, extract of cinnamon, neem and garlic reduced pathogen growth by 30 to 43.75 %. Comparatively, cooper oxiclorure, captan, carbendazim, mancozeb and benomilo had a 100 % control over F. solani. It is concluded that biological and botanical pesticides act as fungistatics against F. solani and contact fungicides are effective to suppress the growth of the pathogen.

ABSTRACT This work looks at the antibacterial efficacy of Gracilaria vermiculophylla and Ulva flexuosa aqueous extracts when added to the feed of Penaeus vannamei in an experimental infection with Vibrio parahaemolyticus (M0904AHPND+strain). Results show that the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) for both extracts was 50 mg mL-1, with inhibition zones of 18.00 ± 0.60 mm for G. vermiculophylla and 14.00 ± 0.29 mm for U. flexuosa. G. vermiculophylla gave a higher total content of phenolic compounds (10.58 ± 2.31 mg GAE g-1) (gallic acid equivalent) and lower flavonoid content (10.32 ± 0.73 mg QE g-1) in comparison to U. flexuosa, while using ABTS (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) to measure antioxidant capacity showed that G. vermiculophylla gave a better result than U. flexuosa. The challenge with V. parahaemolyticus resulted in 67% survival for organisms fed G. vermiculophylla and 60% for those fed U. flexuosa, resulting in twice the amount of survival as opposed to 30% in the positive control at 24 h post-infection. Histopathological alterations in the hepatopancreas with hemocytic infiltration within the intertubular connective tissue were observed. Also, tubules with severe cell detachment and tubular atrophy were detected in the positive control organisms, and organisms treated with macroalgae only had vermiform structures in the tubular lumen, cell detachment, and infiltration hemolymph in intertubular connective tissue. According to the analysis of the studied variables, it can be concluded that the aqueous extracts of these macroalgae are a promising alternative for V. parahaemolyticus (M0904AHPND+strain) control in shrimp culture.

Abstract The objective was to identify an optimal cutting height at harvest of sorghum forage (Sorghum bicolor L.) to improve the nutritional quality of silage, without reducing the dry matter (DM) yield of the forage. The effect of cutting height at 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 and 60 cm on DM yield and nutritional value of silage was evaluated. The forage was harvested when the grain reached a milky-dough state. The plants were crushed to a particle size of 2 cm and the forage was compacted to 261 kg of MS/m3 in mini silos. The DM yield reduced from harvesting at 40 cm above the ground. The neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and lignin of silage were superior when harvested at 10 cm, but lignin reduced by 1.4 % when the cut was greater than 20 cm. The NDF digestibility and total digestible nutrient (TDN) concentration increased when harvested at 40 cm. The highest content of non-fibrous carbohydrates (NFC) was obtained when harvested at 40 and 50 cm. The net lactation energy (NLE) of silage increased from harvesting at 20 cm. The optimal pH of silage was obtained when harvested at 30 cm. In conclusion, harvesting the sorghum fodder between 20 and 40 cm allows obtaining a silage with lower lignin content and, therefore, greater digestibility and energy concentration without negatively affecting the DM yield of the forage.

Resumen El objetivo fue identificar una altura de corte óptima a la cosecha del forraje de sorgo (Sorghum bicolor L.) para mejorar la calidad nutritiva del ensilaje, sin reducir el rendimiento de materia seca (MS) del forraje. Se evaluó el efecto de la altura de corte a 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 y 60 cm, sobre el rendimiento de MS y el valor nutritivo del ensilaje. El forraje se cosechó cuando el grano alcanzó un estado lechoso-masoso. Las plantas se trituraron a un tamaño de partícula de 2 cm y el forraje se compactó a 261 kg de MS/m3 en mini-silos. El rendimiento de MS se redujo a partir de cosechar a 40 cm sobre el suelo. La fibra detergente neutro (FDN) y lignina del ensilaje fueron superiores cuando se cosechó a 10 cm, pero la lignina se redujo 1.4 % cuando el corte fue mayor a 20 cm. La digestibilidad de la FDN y la concentración de nutrientes digestibles totales (NDT) aumentaron cuando se cosechó a 40 cm. El mayor contenido de carbohidratos no fibrosos (CNF) se obtuvo cuando se cosechó a 40 y 50 cm. La energía neta de lactancia (ENL) del ensilaje aumentó a partir de cosechar a 20 cm. El pH óptimo del ensilaje se obtuvo cuando se cosechó a 30 cm. En conclusión, cosechar el forraje de sorgo entre 20 y 40 cm permite obtener un ensilaje con menor contenido de lignina y, por consiguiente, mayor digestibilidad y concentración energética sin afectar negativamente el rendimiento de MS del forraje.