Borderline Phyllodes Tumor in a Child.

Phyllodes tumor (PT) is considered a rare fibroepithelial tumor. Very few series have been reported in children and adolescents. Based on histopathological features, it can be classified as benign, borderline, or malignant, with the latter having a more aggressive clinical behavior. We report the case of a 10-year-old female who began with an asymptomatic mobile right breast mass. An initial fine needle biopsy (FNB) concluded fibroadenoma (FA). Months later, the mass kept growing, with the appearance of pain and nipple discharge. Benign PT was demonstrated in a new biopsy. A total mastectomy was performed. The post-surgical histopathological examination was compatible with a borderline PT. The patient is now symptom-free and with no signs of relapse. Not all breast masses in the pediatric or adolescent age bracket are FA. Attention is warranted when the clinical behavior does not follow the usual outline. PT has to be considered as a possible diagnosis and treated accordingly.

The situation of chlorpyrifos in Mexico: a case study in environmental samples and aquatic organisms.

Chlorpyrifos (CPF) is one of the most commonly used organophosphate pesticides. Because CPF was described as a toxic compound without safe levels of exposure for children, certain countries in Latin America and the European Union have banned or restricted its use; however, in Mexico it is used very frequently. The aim of this study was to describe the current situation of CPF in Mexico, as well as its use, commercialization, and presence in soil, water, and aquatic organisms in an agricultural region of Mexico. Structured questionnaires were applied to pesticide retailers to determine the sales pattern of CPF (ethyl and methyl); in addition, monthly censuses were conducted with empty pesticide containers to assess the CPF pattern of use. Furthermore, samples of soil (48 samples), water (51 samples), and fish (31 samples) were collected, which were analyzed chromatographically. Descriptive statistics were performed. The results indicate that CPF was one of the most sold (3.82%) and employed OP (14.74%) during 2021. Only one soil sample was found above the CPF limit of quantification (LOQ); in contrast, all water samples had CPF levels above the LOQ (x̄ = 4614.2 ng/L of CPF). In the case of fish samples, 6.45% demonstrated the presence of methyl-CPF. In conclusion, the information obtained in this study indicates the need for constant monitoring in the area, since the presence of CPF in soil, water, and fish constitutes a threat to the health of wildlife and humans. Therefore, CPF should be banned in Mexico to avoid a serious neurocognitive health problem.

Soft-Tissue Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase-Positive Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma in a Child Unmasked by COVID-19.

Anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) is children's most common mature T-cell neoplasm. The majority is positive for anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK). Initial presentation as a soft-tissue pelvic mass without nodal involvement is rare and can be easily misdiagnosed. We report a case of a 12-year-old male presenting with pain and movement restriction in the right extremity. Computed tomography (CT) scan revealed a solitary pelvic mass. Initial biopsy examination concluded rhabdomyosarcoma. After developing pediatric multisystemic inflammatory syndrome due to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), central and peripheral lymph node enlargement appeared. New cervical adenopathy and pelvic mass biopsies were performed. Immunohistochemistry concluded an ALK-positive ALCL with a small-cell pattern. The patient was treated with brentuximab-based chemotherapy and eventually improved. Differential diagnosis of pelvic masses in children and adolescents must include ALCL. An inflammatory trigger may promote the appearance of a typical nodal disease, previously absent. Attention is warranted during histopathological examination to avoid diagnostic errors.

Hematological indices as indicators of inflammation induced by exposure to pesticides.

Pesticide toxicity, both acute and chronic, is a global public health concern. Pesticides are involved in abnormal inflammatory responses by interfering with the normal physiology and metabolic status of cells. In this regard, inflammatory indices aggregate index of systemic inflammation (AISI), monocyte-to-high-density lipoprotein ratio, monocyte-to-lymphocyte ratio (MLR), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte platelet ratio (NLPR), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio, systemic immune inflammation index, and systemic inflammation response index (SIRI) have been used as predictive markers of inflammatory status in several diseases and also in acute poisoning events. This study aimed to determine systemic inflammation indices and their relationship with pesticide exposure from urban sprayers in 302 individuals categorized into three groups (reference group and moderate and high exposure groups). The data suggest that the AISI, MLR, NLPR, and SIRI indices were significantly higher in the exposed groups compared with the reference group. In conclusion, this study proposes that inflammation indices warrant further attention in order to assess their value as early biomarkers of acute and chronic pesticide intoxication.

Genotoxic effects of the ochratoxin A (OTA), its main metabolite (OTα) per se and in combination with fumonisin B1 in HepG2 cells and human lymphocytes.

Ochratoxin A (OTA) and fumonisin B1 (FB1) are mycotoxins distributed in a wide variety of foods for human or animal consumption and are classified as possible carcinogens for humans. This study aimed to evaluate the cytotoxic, cytostatic and genotoxic effects of OTA and its main metabolite, ochratoxin α (OTα), FB1 and three combinations of OTA and FB1 at moderate and environmental doses. Cell viability was evaluated through MTT assay and the trypan blue exclusion method. The cytostatic and genotoxic effects were evaluated through the cytokinesis-block micronucleus assay. The results showed synergistic time- and concentration-dependent cytotoxic effects of one of the combinations of OTA and FB1. In contrast, significant differences were observed in the micronuclei (MN) frequency from OTA, OTα and coexposure of OTA + FB1. Some of these combinations increased the frequency of nuclear buds, nucleoplasmic bridges, donut-shaped nuclei, necrotic and apoptotic cells and MN in mononucleated cells. In conclusion, OTA and its main metabolite OTα, as well as the co-exposure of OTA and FB1, cause stable DNA damage at environmentally relevant concentrations, which was greater in metabolically competent cells. More studies are needed to understand the chemical interactions that occur due to the joint presence of mycotoxins, which occurs commonly.

Effect of extreme mechanical densification on the electrical properties of carbon nanotube micro-yarns.

We have explored the effect of high pressure post-treatment in optimizing the properties of carbon nanotube yarns and found that the application of dry hydrostatic pressure reduces porosity and enhances electrical properties. The CNT yarns were prepared by the dry-spinning method directly from CNT arrays made by the hot filament chemical vapour deposition (HF-CVD) process. Mechanical hydrostatic pressure up to 360 MPa induces a decrease in yarn resistivity between 3% and 35%, associated with the sample's permanent densification, with CNT yarn diameter reduction of 10%-25%. However, when increasing the pressure in the 1-3 GPa domain in non-hydrostatic conditions, the recovered samples show lower electrical conductivity. This might be due to concomitant macroscopic effects such as increased twists and damage to the yarn shown by SEM imaging (caused by strong shear stresses and friction) or by the collapse of the CNTs indicated byin situhigh pressure Raman spectroscopy data.

Using retrospective life tables to assess the effect of extreme climatic conditions on ungulate demography.

In Mediterranean areas, severe drought events are expected to intensify in forthcoming years as a consequence of climate change. These events may increase physiological and reproductive stress of wild populations producing demographic changes and distribution shifts. We used retrospective life tables to understand demographic changes on a wild population after severe drought events. We studied the impact of two extreme events (2003 and 2005) on the population dynamics of our model species, the red deer (Cervus elaphus). During both years, population density was high (40 and 36 ind/100 ha, respectively). Thus, we reconstructed retrospectively the age structure of the female part of the population for the period 2000-2010 by using data of known-age individuals culled during the period 2000-2019 (n = 4176). Also, based on previous study results, we aimed to validate this methodology. Both extremely dry years, 2003 and 2005, produced marked and lasting cohort effects on population demography. Age pyramid the following years (2004 and 2006) revealed that the extreme drought caused the female fawn cohort to be similar or even smaller than the yearling cohort. Furthermore, these cohort effects were still perceptible 3 years after these severe events. Results agree with previous findings that showed a negative effect of severe drought events on female pregnancy rates and conception dates. Although simple, this study provides an empirical quantification of the demographic effects of severe drought events for a wild population which might be useful to understand future demographic changes under the context of climate change.

Oxidative Stress in Non-Dialysis-Dependent Chronic Kidney Disease Patients.

BACKGROUND: Cardiovascular complications are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality at any stage of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Moreover, the high rate of cardiovascular mortality observed in these patients is associated with an accelerated atherosclerosis process that likely starts at the early stages of CKD. Thus, traditional and non-traditional or uremic-related factors represent a link between CKD and cardiovascular risk. Among non-conventional risk factors, particular focus has been placed on anaemia, mineral and bone disorders, inflammation, malnutrition and oxidative stress and, in this regard, connections have been reported between oxidative stress and cardiovascular disease in dialysis patients. METHODS: We evaluated the oxidation process in different molecular lines (proteins, lipids and genetic material) in 155 non-dialysis patients at different stages of CKD and 45 healthy controls. To assess oxidative stress status, we analyzed oxidized glutathione (GSSG), reduced glutathione (GSH) and the oxidized/reduced glutathione ratio (GSSG/GSH) and other oxidation indicators, including malondialdehyde (MDA) and 8-oxo-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-oxo-dG). RESULTS: An active grade of oxidative stress was found from the early stages of CKD onwards, which affected all of the molecular lines studied. We observed a heightened oxidative state (indicated by a higher level of oxidized molecules together with decreased levels of antioxidant molecules) as kidney function declined. Furthermore, oxidative stress-related alterations were significantly greater in CKD patients than in the control group. CONCLUSIONS: CKD patients exhibit significantly higher oxidative stress than healthy individuals, and these alterations intensify as eGFR declines, showing significant differences between CKD stages. Thus, future research is warranted to provide clearer results in this area.

Atomically Thin Pythagorean Tilings in Two Dimensions.

We perform a theoretical study of an atomically thin, two-dimensional layer obtained by positioning atoms at the vertices of the classical Pythagorean tiling. This leads to an unusual geometrical pattern that is only stable for the three halogens Cl, Br, and I. In this Pythagorean structure, halogen atoms are arranged in strongly bound diatomic units that bind together by weaker electrostatic bonds. The energy of these phases is competitive with those of the low-temperature phase of the halogens and the two-dimensional layer obtained by exfoliating it. The Pythagorean layers are semiconducting, with an unusual band structure composed of very mobile holes and extremely heavy electrons. They are also soft, exhibiting small values of the elastic constants and a very low energy flexural mode. Analysis of the allowed Raman transitions reveals breathing-like modes that might be used to fingerprint, experimentally, the Pythagorean structure. Finally, we present a series of substrates that, due to lattice matching and compatible symmetry, can be used to stabilize these peculiar two-dimensional layers.

Halogen molecular modifications at high pressure: the case of iodine.

Metallization and dissociation are key transformations in diatomic molecules at high densities particularly significant for modeling giant planets. Using X-ray absorption spectroscopy and atomistic modeling, we demonstrate that in halogens, the formation of a connected molecular structure takes place at pressures well below metallization. Here we show that the iodine diatomic molecule first elongates by ∼0.007 Å up to a critical pressure of Pc ∼ 7 GPa, developing bonds between molecules. Then its length continuously decreases with pressure up to 15-20 GPa. Universal trends in halogens are shown and allow us to predict for chlorine a pressure of 42 ± 8 GPa for molecular bond-length reversal. Our findings contribute to tackling the molecule invariability paradigm in diatomic molecular phases at high pressures and may be generalized to other abundant diatomic molecules in the universe, including hydrogen.

Cultural Conceptions of Teachers on the Educational Model of a Public University of Ecuador / Concepciones culturales de los docentes sobre el modelo educativo de una universidad pública de ecuador

RESUMEN El objetivo del estudio fue indagar los significados culturales del concepto "modelo educativo" con la exploración de dimensiones cognitivas y el consenso cultural en docentes de una universidad pública ecuatoriana. Se aplicaron el diseño cualitativo, descriptivo y exploratorio enmarcados en la antropología cognitiva, así como las técnicas listados libres y sorteo por montones en fases sucesivas, la primera de 20 docentes y la segunda de 18 docentes cada vez, basados en el modelo de Romney, Weller y Batchelder. Se obtuvieron niveles del consenso cultural a razón de 5,213 y promedio de competencia cultural de 3,196, que demostraron acuerdo grupal. Se identificaron componentes principales, intermedios y secundarios. La jerarquización temática del discurso permitió agrupar en un modelo epistemológico, curricular y pedagógico. Se concluye que los participantes piensan en forma homogénea y los significados culturales del modelo educativo se ajustaron al consenso, sin variación cultural entre docentes.

ABSTRACT The objective of the study was to investigate the cultural meanings of the Educational Model concept, through the exploration of cognitive dimensions and the cultural consensus in teachers at an Ecuadorian public university. Methodology: Qualitative, descriptive, exploratory design; framed in Cognitive Anthropology. Free listing techniques were applied, and lots were drawn in successive phases; the first of 20 teachers, and the second of 18 teachers each time; based on the Romney, Weller, and Batchelder Model. Results: Cultural consensus levels in a ratio of 5,213, and cultural competence average of 3,196, showed agreement within the group. Main, intermediate, and secondary components were identified. The Thematic hierarchization of the discourse allowed for grouping in an epistemological, curricular, and pedagogical model. Conclusions: The participants think homogeneously, the cultural meanings of the educational model were adjusted to consensus, without cultural variation among teachers.

COVID-19: aspectos relacionados a la susceptibilidad genética y defectos congénitos / COVID-19: Aspects of genetic susceptibility and congenital defects

RESUMEN Introducción: la COVID-19 (acrónimo del inglés c oronavirus disease 2019) es una enfermedad infecciosa de reciente descripción, causada por el SARS-CoV-2, sin tratamiento efectivo. La identificación de variantes genéticas que intervienen en la respuesta a la COVID-19; así como la posibilidad de trasmisión materno-fetal del SARS-CoV-2 no solo permitirán ampliar los conocimientos sobre su fisiopatología; sino además estratificar los grupos de la población, y según su riesgo, implementar medidas preventivas y tratamientos personalizados, incluida la prioridad en el uso de vacunas. Objetivo: describir aspectos relacionados con la susceptibilidad genética y defectos congénitos en la COVID-19. Material y Métodos: se realizó una investigación tipo revisión bibliográfica; para identificar los documentos que se revisarían se consultó la base bibliográfica PubMed/Medline, incluyendo los trabajos del 2019 y 2020. Se incluyó publicaciones recomendadas por expertos, preferiblemente publicados en los últimos 10 años; luego de una valoración cualitativa, se realizó una síntesis. Desarrollo: están descritas mutaciones de los genes: ACE2, ACE1, TMPRSS2, TLR7, así como haplotipos HLA asociadas a la susceptibilidad genética a la COVID-19. Variantes de los genes: SLC6A20, LZTFL1, CCR9, FYCO1, CXCR6 y XCR1; así como de los que codifican para el receptor de la Vitamina D y las citoquinas pro inflamatorias (como las IL-1, IL-6, IL-12, IFN-γ, y TNT-α), pudieran también estar relacionadas con un incremento de la susceptibilidad al SARS-CoV-2. Ante la posibilidad de trasmisión vertical de la COVID-19 y su posible papel teratogénico, las embarazadas constituyen un grupo de riesgo. Conclusión: variantes genéticas humanas son factores de susceptibilidad genética al virus SARS-CoV-2, que puede ser causa de defectos congénitos(AU)

ABSTRACT Introduction: COVID-19 (acronym for Coronavirus Disease 2019) is a recently described infectious disease caused by SARS-CoV-2, without effective treatment. Identification of genetic variants involved in the response to COVID-19 as well as the possibility of maternal-fetal transmission of SARS-CoV-2 will not only allow us to expand our knowledge of the pathophysiology of COVID-19, but also stratify population groups according to their risks in order to implement preventive measures and personalized treatments, including the priority in the use of vaccines. Objective: To describe aspects related to congenital defects and genetic susceptibility to the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Material and Methods: A bibliographic review was carried out. Medline and PubMed bibliographic databases were searched. Studies published between 2019 and 2020 were included as well the ones recommended by experts, preferably published within the last 10 years. After qualitative evaluation, synthesis was made. Development: Mutations in ACE2, ACE1, TMPRSS2, TLR7 genes, as well as HLA haplotypes associated with genetic susceptibility to COVID-19 are described. Variants in the genes SLC6A20, LZTFL1, CCR9, FYCO1, CXCR6, XCR1 and in those codifying vitamin D receptor and proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1, IL-6, IL-12, IFN-γ, and TNF-α) could be related to an increased susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2. Due to the risk of vertical transmission of COVID-19 and its possible teratogenic effect, pregnant women are included in the risk group. Conclusion: Human genetic variants are factors of genetic susceptibility to the SARS-CoV-2 virus which may cause congenital defects(AU)

Second Generation Antipsychotics Monotherapy as Maintenance Treatment for Bipolar Disorder: a Systematic Review of Long-Term Studies.

Atypical or so called second generation antipsychotics (SGA) are playing a role of increasing importance in treatment of bipolar disorder (BD). This study is aimed towards a systematic review of their efficacy when used as monotherapy in order to prevent relapses in the long term treatment. Publications about this subject were identified after a thorough bibliographic research in Medline, The Cochrane Library and Web of Science, employing the PICO method for the creation of a database search strategy and carrying out a critical read and analysis of the found evidence. 14 studies were found which informed about the results of randomized and controlled clinical trials (RCT) about the efficacy of these SGA in monotherapy for BD, when it comes to prevention of relapse, in adult patients diagnosed with either type I or II BD, with a minimum follow-up time of 6 months. Evidence of the use of SGAs for maintenance treatment in BD is limited. Amongst all antipsychotics assessed only aripiprazole, olanzapine, lurasidone, risperidone and quetiapine have been found to be competent for their use in monotherapy, according to RCT.

High-Pressure Effect on the Optical Extinction of a Single Gold Nanoparticle.

When reducing the size of a material from bulk down to nanoscale, the enhanced surface-to-volume ratio and the presence of interfaces make the properties of nano-objects very sensitive not only to confinement effects but also to their local environment. In the optical domain, the latter dependence can be exploited to tune the plasmonic response of metal nanoparticles by controlling their surroundings, notably applying high pressures. To date, only a few optical absorption experiments have demonstrated this feasibility, on ensembles of metal nanoparticles in a diamond anvil cell. Here, we report a nontrivial combination between a spatial modulation spectroscopy microscope and an ultraflat diamond anvil cell, allowing us to quantitatively investigate the high-pressure optical extinction spectrum of an individual nano-object. A large tuning of the surface plasmon resonance of a gold nanobipyramid is experimentally demonstrated up to 10 GPa, in quantitative agreement with finite-element simulations and an analytical model disentangling the impact of metal and local environment dielectric modifications. High-pressure optical characterizations of single nanoparticles allow for the accurate investigation and modeling of size, strain, and environment effects on physical properties of nano-objects and also enable fine-tuned applications in nanocomposites, nanoelectromechanical systems, or nanosensing devices.

ß-Glucuronidase and Its Relationship With Clinical Parameters and Biomarkers of Pesticide Exposure.

OBJECTIVE: This study determined ß-glucuronidase activity and its relationship with clinical, biochemical, and pesticide-exposure biomarkers in workers occupationally exposed mainly to OP insecticides. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted in pesticide applicators. Three study groups were established: reference group, moderate-exposure group, and high-exposure group. Blood samples were obtained to determine the activity of ß-glucuronidase. Clinical analysis was conducted in a certified laboratory. RESULTS: The activity of ß-glucuronidase was associated with clinical variables such as glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, VLDL, HDL, atherogenic index, transaminases, and BuChE activity, but not with AChE activity. The activity of this enzyme exhibited a significant increase in the group of moderate exposure to pesticides but not in the group of high exposure. CONCLUSION: ß-Glucuronidase activity is a sensitive biomarker under certain scenarios of OP exposure.

Morphometric variations of two populations of Anopheles albitarsis F (Diptera: Culicidae) in the Orinoquia region, Colombia / Variaciones morfométricas de poblaciones de Anopheles albitarsis F (Diptera: Culicidae) en la Orinoquía colombiana

Abstract Introduction: Anopheles albitarsis F has been reported with natural infection by Plasmodium falciparum. In the Orinoquía, this species is in sympatry with Anopheles darlingi, a major malaria vector. Objective: To determine morphometric variations in diagnostic characters of wings and hind legs in adult mosquitoes of two populations of the Orinoquia region, where malaria is a major public health issue. Materials and methods: Using linear and geometric morphometry approaches, wing patterns of Costa veins from wild females, females obtained from entomological series and isofamilies were analyzed. Shape and wing size were estimated. The second hindtarsomere was analyzed by means of linear morphometry. Results: Two patterns of spots on the Costa vein of the wings were observed. Significant statistical differences (p<0.05) were found in wing size and shape between wild females and females obtained under laboratory conditions. In the populations studied, a PHD/HP ratio of 1.17-1.19 in the Costa vein and a 0.38-0.54 for the DSIII2/TaIII2 ratio in the second posterior tarsomere of the hind legs, proposed as diagnostic characters. Conclusion. The studied populations of An. albitarsis F showed significant differences between wild females and those obtained under laboratory conditions, not only in wing size, but also in shape. New ranges presented for the diagnostic characters of the species.

Resumen Introducción. Anopheles albitarsis F ha sido registrada con infección natural por Plasmodium falciparum. En la Orinoquía, se encuentra en simpatría con Anopheles darlingi, un vector primario de malaria. Objetivo. Determinar variaciones morfométricas en caracteres diagnósticos de ala y pata posterior de mosquitos adultos procedentes de dos poblaciones naturales de la Orinoquía, donde la malaria constituye un problema de salud pública. Materiales y métodos. Se analizaron, mediante morfometría lineal y geométrica, los patrones de manchas de la vena Costa del ala de hembras silvestres, de hembras obtenidas de series entomológicas y de isofamilias. Se estimó la forma y el tamaño alar. El segundo tarsómero posterior se analizó por morfometría lineal. Resultados. Se observaron dos patrones de manchas de la vena Costa; se encontraron diferencias estadísticamente significativas en el tamaño y forma alar (p<0.05) entre las hembras silvestres y las obtenidas en condiciones de laboratorio. Para las poblaciones estudiadas, se proponen como caracteres diagnósticos la proporción PHD/HP de 1.17-1.19 en la vena Costa y 0.38-0.54 para la proporción DSIII2/ TaIII2 del segundo tarsómero posterior de la pata posterior. Conclusión. Las poblaciones estudiadas de An. albitarsis F presentaron diferencias significativas entre las hembras silvestres y las obtenidas en condiciones de laboratorio, no solo en el tamaño de las alas, sino también en la forma. Se presentan nuevos rangos para los caracteres diagnósticos de la especie.

[Anopheles darlingi (Diptera: Culicidae) Rood 1926: Morphometric variations in wings and legs of populations from Colombia].

INTRODUCTION: Natural populations of Anopheles darlingi, the main malaria vector in Colombia, have shown phenotypic variations in some of their diagnostic characters. OBJECTIVE: To characterize morphometric variations in wing spot patterns and diagnostic characters of the hind leg of adult females of An. darlingi collected in areas where malaria is endemic. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patterns of the costal vein spots of wild females of An. darling populations collected in the departments of Chocó, Guaviare, Meta and Vichada were analyzed using linear and morphometric approaches. The second tarsomere of the hind leg of females was characterized by linear morphometric analysis. RESULTS: We found 19 patterns of spots in the costal vein; patterns I (n=118/240, 49%) and VI (n=66, 28%) were the most frequent. The proportion of the basal dark area of hind tarsomere II and the length of hind tarsomere II (DSIII2/Ta-III2) constituted a robust diagnostic character as it represented 89% (n=213/240) of the total specimens studied. Significant differences were found in the wing shape (F=1.65, df =50, p<0.001) and the wing size (F=3.37, df=5, p=0.005) among populations from different locations. The smallest centroid size (2.64 mm) was found in populations from Chocó. CONCLUSIONS: We registered 11 new wing spot patterns in the costal vein and the dominance of the patterns I and VI for populations of An. darlingi from Colombia. We confirmed DSIII2/TaIII2 ratio as a robust diagnostic character for the taxonomy of this species. We found differences between the size and shape of the wings of An. darlingi populations in accordance to their geographical distribution, which constitute important bionomic aspects for this malaria vector.

Anopheles darlingi Root 1926 (Diptera: Culicidae): variaciones morfométricas en alas y patas de poblaciones de Colombia / Anopheles darlingi (Diptera: Culicidae) Rood 1926: Morphometric variations in wings and legs of populations from Colombia

Resumen Introducción. Las poblaciones naturales de Anopheles darlingi, principal transmisor de la malaria en Colombia, han mostrado plasticidad fenotípica en algunos de sus caracteres diagnósticos. Objetivo. Caracterizar las variaciones morfométricas de los patrones alares y de la pata posterior en poblaciones naturales de An. darlingi recolectados en localidades colombianas donde la malaria es endémica. Materiales y métodos. Se analizaron los patrones de manchas de la vena costal del ala de hembras silvestres recolectadas en los departamentos de Chocó, Guaviare, Meta y Vichada mediante morfometría lineal y geométrica. El segundo tarsómero posterior de las hembras se analizó mediante morfometría lineal. Resultados. Se encontraron 19 patrones de manchas de la vena costal. Los patrones I, con 49 % (n=118/240) y VI, con 28 % (n=66), fueron los más frecuentes. La proporción del área oscura basal (DS-III2 ) y del tarsómero posterior (Ta-III2 ) constituyó una característica sólida de diagnóstico, pues representó el 89 % (n=213/240) del total de especímenes analizados. Se encontraron diferencias significativas en la forma (F=1,65; gl=50; p<0,001) y el tamaño (F=3,37; gl=5; p=0,005) del ala entre las poblaciones de diferentes localidades. El centroide de menor tamaño (2,64 mm) se encontró en las poblaciones de Chocó. Conclusiones. Se registraron 11 patrones nuevos para las manchas de la vena costal y se confirmó la dominancia de los patrones alares I y VI en las poblaciones de An. darlingi de Colombia, así como la relación de DS-III2 y Ta-III2 como un rasgo sólido de diagnóstico para la taxonomía de la especie. Se encontraron diferencias en el tamaño corporal de las poblaciones evaluadas, lo cual reviste importancia para el análisis de aspectos bionómicos de la especie.

Abstract Introduction: Natural populations of Anopheles darlingi, the main malaria vector in Colombia, have shown phenotypic variations in some of their diagnostic characters. Objective: To characterize morphometric variations in wing spot patterns and diagnostic characters of the hind leg of adult females of An. darlingi collected in areas where malaria is endemic. Materials and methods: Patterns of the costal vein spots of wild females of An. darling populations collected in the departments of Chocó, Guaviare, Meta and Vichada were analyzed using linear and morphometric approaches. The second tarsomere of the hind leg of females was characterized by linear morphometric analysis. Results: We found 19 patterns of spots in the costal vein; patterns I (n=118/240, 49%) and VI (n=66, 28%) were the most frequent. The proportion of the basal dark area of hind tarsomere II and the length of hind tarsomere II (DSIII2 /Ta-III2) constituted a robust diagnostic character as it represented 89% (n=213/240) of the total specimens studied. Significant differences were found in the wing shape (F=1.65, df =50, p<0.001) and the wing size (F=3.37, df=5, p=0.005) among populations from different locations. The smallest centroid size (2.64 mm) was found in populations from Chocó. Conclusions. We registered 11 new wing spot patterns in the costal vein and the dominance of the patterns I and VI for populations of An. darlingi from Colombia. We confirmed DSIII2/TaIII2 ratio as a robust diagnostic character for the taxonomy of this species. We found differences between the size and shape of the wings of An. darlingi populations in accordance to their geographical distribution, which constitute important bionomic aspects for this malaria vector.