Efficacy of the "Start to move" protocol on functionality, ICU-acquired weakness and delirium: A randomized clinical trial.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy of the Start to move protocol compared to conventional treatment in subjects over 15 years of age hospitalized in the ICU on an improvement in functionality, decrease in ICU-acquired weakness (DAUCI), incidence of delirium, days of mechanical ventilation (MV), length of stay in ICU and mortality at 28 days. DESIGN: randomized controlled clinical trial. SETTING: Intensive Care Unit. PARTICIPANTS: Includes adults older than 15 years with invasive mechanical ventilation more than 48h, randomized allocation. INTERVENTIONS: Start to move protocol and conventional treatment. MAIN VARIABLES OF INTEREST: Functionality, incidence of ICU-acquired weakness, incidence of delirium, days on mechanical ventilation, ICU stay and mortality-28 days, ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT05053724. RESULTS: 69 subjects were admitted to the study, 33 to the Start to move group and 36 to conventional treatment, clinically and sociodemographic comparable. In the "Start to move" group, the incidence of IUCD at ICU discharge was 35.7% vs. 80.7% in the "conventional treatment" group (p=0.001). Functionality (FSS-ICU) at ICU discharge corresponds to 26 vs. 17 points in favor of the "Start to move" group (p=0.001). The difference in Barthel at ICU discharge was 20% in favor of the "Start to move" group (p=0.006). There were no significant differences in the incidence of delirium, days of mechanical ventilation, ICU stay and 28-day mortality. The study did not report adverse events or protocol suspension. CONCLUSIONS: The application of the "Start to move" protocol in ICU showed a reduction in the incidence of IUAD, an increase in functionality and a smaller decrease in Barthel score at discharge.

Understanding Antibiotic Resistance as a Perceived Threat towards Dairy Cattle through Beliefs and Practices: A Survey-Based Study of Dairy Farmers.

Antibiotic use is an important component in dairy herd management both to treat bacterial diseases and to maximize animal welfare. However, there is concern among scientists that antibiotic misuse and/or overuse by farmers might promote the emergence of resistant pathogens. We conducted a cross-sectional web-based questionnaire study with dairy farmers/managers in New York, USA to evaluate their (i) level of concern about antibiotic resistance and (ii) interest in adopting new judicious antibiotic use practices regarding mastitis treatment. A total of 118 responses were subjected to statistical analysis. The findings revealed that nearly half (45%) of study participants were undecided or disagreed that antibiotic resistance due to antibiotic use in dairy farming may negatively impact the health of dairy cattle. In contrast, the majority (78%) of participants self-reported that they do not treat with antibiotics at the first sign of mastitis, and the majority (66%) have either fully or partially implemented culture-based mastitis treatment on their farm. The self-reported adoption of culture-based mastitis treatment practices was statistically significantly associated with higher numbers of injectable and intramammary doses of antibiotics used on the participants' farms. These findings will aid future research investigations on how to promote sustainable antibiotic use practices in dairy cattle.

Pre- versus post-operative untargeted plasma nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy metabolomics of pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma.

PURPOSE: Pheochromocytomas and Paragangliomas (PPGL) result in chronic catecholamine excess and serious health complications. A recent study obtained a metabolic signature in plasma from PPGL patients; however, its targeted nature may have generated an incomplete picture and a broader approach could provide additional insights. We aimed to characterize the plasma metabolome of PPGL patients before and after surgery, using an untargeted approach, and to broaden the scope of the investigated metabolic impact of these tumors. DESIGN: A cohort of 36 PPGL patients was investigated. Blood plasma samples were collected before and after surgical tumor removal, in association with clinical and tumor characteristics. METHODS: Plasma samples were analyzed using untargeted nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy metabolomics. The data were evaluated using a combination of uni- and multi-variate statistical methods. RESULTS: Before surgery, patients with a nonadrenergic tumor could be distinguished from those with an adrenergic tumor based on their metabolic profiles. Tyrosine levels were significantly higher in patients with high compared to those with low BMI. Comparing subgroups of pre-operative samples with their post-operative counterparts, we found a metabolic signature that included ketone bodies, glucose, organic acids, methanol, dimethyl sulfone and amino acids. Three signals with unclear identities were found to be affected. CONCLUSIONS: Our study suggests that the pathways of glucose and ketone body homeostasis are affected in PPGL patients. BMI-related metabolite levels were also found to be altered, potentially linking muscle atrophy to PPGL. At baseline, patient metabolomes could be discriminated based on their catecholamine phenotype.

[Vitamin D levels in patients with inflammatory bowel disease]. / Hipovitaminosis D en población portadora de enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal del Sur de Chile.

BACKGROUND: Inflammatory Bowell Diseases (IBD), either ulcerative colitis (UC) or Chron's disease (CD) are commonly associated with intestinal malabsorption, and insufficient levels 1-25 hydroxycholecalciferol (vitamin D). These insufficient levels could be linked with an increased risk of clinical disease activity. AIM: To report vitamin D levels in patients with IBD living in Southern Chile and their possible association with clinical disease activity. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A prospective, observational study in outpatients with IBD living in Los Angeles, Chile. Demographic data and clinical activity using clinical scores were recorded. Vitamin D levels and fecal calprotectin were measured. RESULTS: We studied 44 patients, 32 (73%) with UC and 12 (27%) with CD. The median age at diagnosis was 33 years old. Forty-one (93%) had mild-inactive disease and 3 (7%) a moderate disease. Mean vitamin D levels were 15.2 ± 7.1 ng/ml. Twenty five percent of patients had sufficient levels (> 20 ng/ml), 35% insufficient levels and 40% poor levels. No association between these levels and disease activity was found. CONCLUSIONS: These patients with IBD had a high frequency of hypovitaminosis D.

How does public perception of antibiotic use on dairy farms contribute to self-reported purchasing of organic?

The United States regulates the use of antibiotics in agricultural settings to address the global antibiotic resistance problem. Conventional dairy cows treated with antibiotics are kept in the herd and after the withholding period milk is harvested. On organic farms, the US organic standard on antibiotic use requires sick dairy cows to be treated, but treated cows must be removed from the herd and their milk can never again be sold as certified organic. This study investigated the US public's perceptions of the organic dairy farming, antibiotic use on dairy farms, and whether these perceptions affect consumer's self-reported purchasing behavior for organic. We used a nationally representative phone-based survey of 1000 US adults and characterized participants' self-reported (i) knowledge of the legality of antibiotic use on dairy farms (conventional and organic) and (ii) frequency of purchasing organic instead of conventional dairy products, as well as several demographic and other variables. The results indicated that participants' knowledge about antibiotic use practices in dairy farming have no effect on their self-reported purchasing behavior for organic or conventional dairy products. However, respondents who were familiar with the regulations of antibiotic use on dairy farms were more likely to oppose the US organic standard on antibiotic use in dairy farming and thought that past antibiotic use should not permanently remove a cow's organic status. These findings contribute to understanding of public perceptions that shape the US dairy organic market. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Income, employment, health and political values, but not consumers' knowledge about antibiotic use in dairy farming, affect self-reported purchasing behavior for organic dairy products. However, consumers who are familiar with the regulations of antibiotic use on US dairy farms disagree with the US organic standard on antibiotic use mandating loss of organic status for any cattle treated with antibiotics. These findings may be useful to organic markets.

Hipovitaminosis D en población portadora de enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal del Sur de Chile / Vitamin D levels in patients with inflammatory bowel disease

Background: Inflammatory Bowell Diseases (IBD), either ulcerative colitis (UC) or Chron's disease (CD) are commonly associated with intestinal malabsorption, and insufficient levels 1-25 hydroxycholecalciferol (vitamin D). These insufficient levels could be linked with an increased risk of clinical disease activity. Aim: To report vitamin D levels in patients with IBD living in Southern Chile and their possible association with clinical disease activity. Material and Methods: A prospective, observational study in outpatients with IBD living in Los Angeles, Chile. Demographic data and clinical activity using clinical scores were recorded. Vitamin D levels and fecal calprotectin were measured. Results: We studied 44 patients, 32 (73%) with UC and 12 (27%) with CD. The median age at diagnosis was 33 years old. Forty-one (93%) had mild-inactive disease and 3 (7%) a moderate disease. Mean vitamin D levels were 15.2 ± 7.1 ng/ml. Twenty five percent of patients had sufficient levels (> 20 ng/ml), 35% insufficient levels and 40% poor levels. No association between these levels and disease activity was found. Conclusions: These patients with IBD had a high frequency of hypovitaminosis D.

Survey of perceptions and attitudes of an international group of veterinarians regarding antibiotic use and resistance on dairy cattle farms.

Veterinarians are the main source of information for farmers regarding the responsible use of antibiotics in farm animals and how to reduce the risk of antibiotic resistance. Consequently, understanding how veterinarians perceive their clients' and colleagues' antibiotic use and their own beliefs about the development of antibiotic resistance is essential to determining areas in which antibiotic use practices can be improved to minimize the emergence of antibiotic resistance. An international cross-sectional study was carried out using a questionnaire designed to elucidate perceptions, attitudes, and concerns of dairy veterinarians regarding antibiotic use and the emergence of antibiotic resistance in dairy farming. The questionnaire was initially administered to veterinarians attending the International Bovine Mastitis Conference in Milano, Italy, 2018, followed by veterinarian members of the National Mastitis Council, and all conference registrants. A total of 71 participants from 21 countries participated in the survey, the majority were from the United States and member countries of the European Union. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify predictors of veterinarians' level of concern about the development of antibiotic resistance on their clients' farms. Associations were described with odds ratios (ORs) and the associated 95 % confidence intervals (95 % CIs). Free text responses where participants shared their views on the reason for overprescribing antibiotics by veterinarians were analyzed using thematic analysis. Participants perceived that nearly half of their clients overuse or inappropriately use antibiotics, and nearly half of their colleagues overprescribe or inappropriately prescribe antibiotics. After controlling for other factors, the odds of veterinarians being concerned about antibiotic resistance on dairy farms they served decreased by a factor of 0.91 for each additional year of participants' experience working with dairy cattle (OR = 0.91, 95 % CI = 0.84-0.99). Participants concerned about antibiotic resistance on clients' dairy farms were also more likely to consider better adherence to drug labelling as important for reducing farmers' antibiotic use (OR = 6.86, 95 % CI = 1.21-38.93). Thematic analysis revealed four themes surrounding the perceived reasons for veterinarians' overprescribing of antibiotics: (i) knowledge, (ii) attitudes, (iii) barriers, and (iv) rules and regulations. The study findings will aid in the development of strategies to improve antibiotic use in dairy farming and educational initiatives looking to enhance the communication between veterinarians and farmers about judicious use of antibiotics.

Efecto del Flujo Operativo de la Cánula Nasal de Alto Flujo sobre el Rendimiento en la Entrega de Humedad / Effect of Operational Flow of the High Flow Nasal Cannula on Moisture Delivery Performance

Introducción: La canula nasal de alto flujo (CNAF) corresponde a un sistema de oxigenoterapia capaz de aplicar un flujo de gas de hasta 60 L/min a través de cánulas nasales. Este sistema es tolerable por el paciente debido a que el gas inspirado se encuentra calefaccionado y humidificado (temperatura de 34 ­ 37ºC, entregando una humedad relativa de 100%). El uso de este equipo es cada vez mayor, especialmente en el manejo de pacientes con falla respiratoria hipoxémica. Sin embargo no hay claridad del nivel de humedad que entrega, especialmente a altos flujos. Objetivo: Determinar el aporte real de humedad entregado por la CNAF a distintos flujos de operación. Métodos: Estudio in vitro, donde se utilizó un equipo de CNAF marca Fisher & Paykel Healthcare, modelo AIRVO®. Las mediciones de humedad relativa (H.R.) y temperatura se realizaron en una cámara ambiental de acrílico donde se conectó la cánula nasal. Para la medición de H.R. y temperatura se utilizó un higrómetro digital (Marca Veto®, Italia). Cada medición requirió un tiempo de 30 minutos para lograr un valor estable dentro de la cámara ambiental. Se realizaron mediciones a flujos de 15, 30, 40 y 50 LPM. Resultados: Las mediciones se realizaron a temperatura ambiental de 21,8 ºC y a una humedad relativa de 39%. Para un flujo programado en el equipo de 15 LPM y temperatura de 37ºC, se logra en la cámara ambiental una temperatura de 28,5ºC, con una humedad relativa de 95%. Para un flujo programado de 30 LPM y temperatura de 37ºC, se logra en la cámara ambiental una temperatura de 29,8ºC, con una humedad relativa de 97%. Para flujos operativos de 40 y 50 LPM, la temperatura y humedad relativa generadas fueron similares (HR 97% y 30ºC). Conclusiones: La temperatura entregada por el equipo de CNAF fue menor a la programada, pero mantuvo una alta tasa de HR.

Introduction: The high flow nasal cannula (HFNC) is an oxygen therapy system capable of applying a gas flow of up to 80 Lmin-1 through nasal cannulas. This system is tolerable by the patient due to the fact that the inspired gas is heated and humidified (temperature of 34 ­ 37ºC, delivering a relative humidity of 100%). The use of this equipment is increasing, especially in the management of patients with hypoxemic respiratory failure. However, there is no clarity on the level of humidity it delivers, especially at high flows. Objective: To determine the real humidity delivered by the CNAF to different operating flows. Methods: In vitro study. A Fisher & Paykel® CNAF equipment, AIRVO model, was used. Relative humidity (R.H.) and temperature measurements were performed in an acrylic environmental chamber where the nasal cannula was connected. For the measurement of H.R. and temperature, a digital hygrometer (Veto® Brand, Italy) was used. Each measurement required a time of 30 minutes to achieve a stable value. Measurements were made at flows of 15, 30, 40 and 50 Lmin-1. Results: Measurements were made at an ambient temperature of 21.8 ºC and a relative humidity of 39%. For a flow programmed in the equipment of 15 Lmin-1 and a temperature of 37ºC, a temperature of 28.5ºC is achieved in the environmental chamber, with a relative humidity of 95%. For a programmed flow of 30 Lmin-1 and a temperature of 37ºC, a temperature of 29.8ºC is achieved in the environmental chamber, with a relative humidity of 97%. For operating flows of 40 and 50 Lmin-1, the temperature and relative humidity generated were similar (RH 97% and 30ºC). Conclusions: The temperature delivered by the CNAF team was lower than programmed, but it maintained a high RH rate.

Parasites of the Neotropic cormorant Nannopterum (Phalacrocorax) brasilianus (Aves, Phalacrocoracidae) in Chile.

The Neotropic cormorant Nannopterum (Phalacrocorax) brasilianus (Suliformes: Phalacrocoracidae) is widely distributed in Central and South America. In Chile, information about parasites for this species is limited to helminths and nematodes, and little is known about other parasite groups. This study documents the parasitic fauna present in 80 Neotropic cormorants' carcasses collected from 2001 to 2008 in Antofagasta, Biobío, and Ñuble regions. Birds were externally inspected for ectoparasites and necropsies were performed to examine digestive and respiratory organs in search of endoparasites. Ectoparasites collected were cleared and mounted for identification under a microscope. Fecal samples were also evaluated to determine the presence of protozoan parasites employing a flotation technique. A total of 44 (42.5%) of birds were infested with at least one ectoparasite species, while 77 (96.25%) were carrying endoparasites. No protozoan forms were found after examination. Most prevalent endoparasite species found were Contracaecum rudolphii s. l. (72/80, 90%), followed by Pectinopygus gyroceras (33/80, 41.25%), and Profilicollis altmani (26/80, 32.5%). This is the first report of P. altmani, Baruscapillaria carbonis, Avioserpens sp., Cyathostoma (Cyathostoma) phenisci, and Eidmaniella pelucida in the Neotropic cormorant. These findings also expand the distributional range of Andracantha phalacrocoracis, Paradilepis caballeroi, Hysteromorpha triloba, and P. gyroceras to Chile.

Una revisión sistemática de los patógenos virales y bacterianos de aves silvestres en Chile / A systematic revision of viral and bacterial pathogens of free-ranging wild birds in Chile

Resumen El conocimiento acerca de agentes patógenos presentes en aves silvestres es crucial para la apropiada prevención de eventos de transmisión que puedan afectar a la salud pública y animal. Esta revisión sistemática organiza toda la información disponible acerca de los patógenos virales y bacterianos de las aves silvestres chilenas, determina qué patógenos y órdenes de aves han recibido atención reciente por parte de la comunidad científica local, evalúa cambios en la frecuencia de publicación de artículos e identifica brechas en el conocimiento respecto a estos patógenos. Un total de 35 artículos revisados por pares han sido publicados desde enero de 1941 hasta abril de 2019. Agentes virales fueron evaluados en 11 estudios, mientras que 24 concernieron a bacterias. Los artículos científicos se han publicado mayormente de forma discontinua en años previos al 2006. Salmonella spp. e influenza aviar han sido los patógenos más estudiados con 10 y 8 estudios, respectivamente. Las regiones de Los Ríos y Valparaíso concentran el mayor número de estudios y no se ha realizado investigación en las regiones de O'Higgins, Maule y Aysén. En general, la información acerca de patógenos en aves silvestres es escasa, por lo que es necesario incrementar los esfuerzos para identificar patógenos portados por reservorios aviares y evaluar el riesgo potencial que pueden representar para la conservación de fauna silvestre, producción animal y el sistema de salud pública en Chile.

Abstract Knowledge about pathogenic agents present in wild birds is pivotal to properly prevent transmission events that might threaten public and animal health. This systematic review organizes all information available about viral and bacterial pathogens of Chilean wild birds, determines which pathogens and avian orders have received attention from the local scientific community, evaluates changes in the frequency of article publication, and identifies gaps in knowledge regarding these pathogens. A total of 35 peer-reviewed publications have been published from January 1941 through April 2019. Viral agents were evaluated in 11 studies, while 24 involved bacteria. Article publication has been mostly discontinuous in years prior to 2006. Salmonella spp. and avian influenza have been the most studied pathogens with 10 and 8 studies, respectively. Los Ríos and Valparaíso regions concentrate the highest number of studies and no research has been carried out in O'Higgins, Maule, and Aysén regions. Overall, information about pathogens in wild birds is scarce, highlighting the need for increased effort to identify pathogens being carried by avian reservoirs and evaluate the potential threat that they might pose for wildlife conservation, animal production, and the public health system in Chile.

Active surveillance of pathogens from ticks collected in New York State suburban parks and schoolyards.

Schoolyards and suburban parks are two environments where active tick surveillance may inform local management approaches. Even in a state such as New York with a robust active tick surveillance programme operated by the state Department of Health, these settings are not routinely covered. The goal of this study was to highlight the importance of active surveillance for tick-borne pathogens by describing their prevalence in ticks collected from schoolyards and suburban parks and to guide the use of integrated pest management in these settings. Tick dragging was performed in three regions of New York State: Long Island, the Lower Hudson Valley and the Capital Region. A total of 19 schoolyards and 32 parks were sampled. The location, habitat and weather at the time of tick collection were recorded. Ticks were speciated and tested for the presence of 17 pathogens with a novel application of nanoscale real-time PCR. The causative agents of Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, babesiosis and Powassan virus disease were all detected from Ixodes scapularis in various sites throughout the capital region and south-eastern counties of New York state. The most common agent detected was Borrelia burgdorferi, and coinfection rates were as high as 36%. This surveillance study also captured the first of the invasive Asian longhorned tick species, Haemaphysalis longicornis, in New York state (collected 2 June 2017). Results from this study highlight the importance of collaborative efforts and data sharing for improvement of surveillance for tick-borne disease agents.

Rodents as potential reservoirs for Borrelia spp. in northern Chile.

Small mammals play an essential role in the transmission and maintenance cycles of Borrelia spirochetes. In Chile, recent studies have characterized novel Borrelia genotypes in ticks collected from small mammals, a fact that suggests these vertebrates are hosts for spirochetes from this genus. Considering this evidence, the goal of this study was to determine the presence of Borrelia DNA in small mammals inhabiting northern Chile. In winter of 2018, 58 small mammals were captured in five localities. Blood samples were collected from rodents and DNA was extracted to determine the presence of Borrelia DNA by PCR targeting the flaB gene and rrs-rrlA intergenic spacer (IGS). From three individuals (5%), belonging to two rodent species of Cricetidae family (Phyllotis xanthopygus and Oligoryzomys longicaudatus), we retrieved three flaB and two IGS Borrelia genotypes. Phylogenetic analyses performed with both Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian inferences showed that our sequences grouped with homologous genotypes from the relapsing fever and Lyme borreliosis groups. Our findings suggest that P. xanthopygus and O. longicaudatus rodents may play a role as reservoirs for borrelial spirochetes in Chile.

Epigenetic reprogramming at estrogen-receptor binding sites alters 3D chromatin landscape in endocrine-resistant breast cancer.

Endocrine therapy resistance frequently develops in estrogen receptor positive (ER+) breast cancer, but the underlying molecular mechanisms are largely unknown. Here, we show that 3-dimensional (3D) chromatin interactions both within and between topologically associating domains (TADs) frequently change in ER+ endocrine-resistant breast cancer cells and that the differential interactions are enriched for resistance-associated genetic variants at CTCF-bound anchors. Ectopic chromatin interactions are preferentially enriched at active enhancers and promoters and ER binding sites, and are associated with altered expression of ER-regulated genes, consistent with dynamic remodelling of ER pathways accompanying the development of endocrine resistance. We observe that loss of 3D chromatin interactions often occurs coincidently with hypermethylation and loss of ER binding. Alterations in active A and inactive B chromosomal compartments are also associated with decreased ER binding and atypical interactions and gene expression. Together, our results suggest that 3D epigenome remodelling is a key mechanism underlying endocrine resistance in ER+ breast cancer.

[A systematic revision of viral and bacterial pathogens of free-ranging wild birds in Chile]. / Una revisión sistemática de los patógenos virales y bacterianos de aves silvestres en Chile.

Knowledge about pathogenic agents present in wild birds is pivotal to properly prevent transmission events that might threaten public and animal health. This systematic review organizes all information available about viral and bacterial pathogens of Chilean wild birds, determines which pathogens and avian orders have received attention from the local scientific community, evaluates changes in the frequency of article publication, and identifies gaps in knowledge regarding these pathogens. A total of 35 peer-reviewed publications have been published from January 1941 through April 2019. Viral agents were evaluated in 11 studies, while 24 involved bacteria. Article publication has been mostly discontinuous in years prior to 2006. Salmonella spp. and avian influenza have been the most studied pathogens with 10 and 8 studies, respectively. Los Ríos and Valparaíso regions concentrate the highest number of studies and no research has been carried out in O'Higgins, Maule, and Aysén regions. Overall, information about pathogens in wild birds is scarce, highlighting the need for increased effort to identify pathogens being carried by avian reservoirs and evaluate the potential threat that they might pose for wildlife conservation, animal production, and the public health system in Chile.

Rodents as potential reservoirs for Borrelia spp. in northern Chile / Roedores como potenciais reservatórios de Borrelia spp. no norte do Chile

Abstract Small mammals play an essential role in the transmission and maintenance cycles of Borrelia spirochetes. In Chile, recent studies have characterized novel Borrelia genotypes in ticks collected from small mammals, a fact that suggests these vertebrates are hosts for spirochetes from this genus. Considering this evidence, the goal of this study was to determine the presence of Borrelia DNA in small mammals inhabiting northern Chile. In winter of 2018, 58 small mammals were captured in five localities. Blood samples were collected from rodents and DNA was extracted to determine the presence of Borrelia DNA by PCR targeting the flaB gene and rrs-rrlA intergenic spacer (IGS). From three individuals (5%), belonging to two rodent species of Cricetidae family (Phyllotis xanthopygus and Oligoryzomys longicaudatus), we retrieved three flaB and two IGS Borrelia genotypes. Phylogenetic analyses performed with both Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian inferences showed that our sequences grouped with homologous genotypes from the relapsing fever and Lyme borreliosis groups. Our findings suggest that P. xanthopygus and O. longicaudatus rodents may play a role as reservoirs for borrelial spirochetes in Chile.

Resumo Pequenos mamíferos possuem um papel essencial na transmissão e manutenção de espiroquetas do gênero Borrelia. No Chile, estudos recentes têm descrito novos genótipos de Borrelia em carrapatos, parasitando pequenos mamíferos. Isso sugere que esses vertebrados podem atuar como possíveis reservatórios dessas espiroquetas. Considerando-se essa evidência, o objetivo deste estudo foi determinar a presença de DNA de Borrelia em pequenos mamíferos da região norte do Chile. Durante o inverno de 2018, 58 pequenos mamíferos foram capturados em cinco localidades. Amostras de sangue obtidas a partir dos indivíduos capturados foram submetidas à extração de DNA e ensaios de PCR, para a detecção de Borrelia spp. baseados no gene flaB e espaçador intergênico rrs-rrlA (IGS). A partir de três espécimes (5%) pertencentes a duas espécies de roedores da família Cricetidae (Phyllotis xanthopygus e Oligoryzomys longicaudatus) obtiveram-se três genótipos de Borrelia para o gene flaB e dois para IGS. Análises filogenéticas inferidas, usando-se os métodos Bayesiano e de Máxima Verossimilhança, indicaram que as sequências geradas neste estudo agrupam-se com borrelias do grupo da Febre Recorrente e Borreliose de Lyme. Os achados deste estudo sugerem que roedores P. xanthopygus e O. longicaudatus poderiam atuar como possíveis reservatórios para Borrelia spp. no Chile.

Parasites of the Neotropic cormorant Nannopterum (Phalacrocorax) brasilianus (Aves, Phalacrocoracidae) in Chile / Parasitos da biguá Nannopterum (Phalacrocorax) brasilianus (Aves, Phalacrocoracidae) do Chile

Abstract The Neotropic cormorant Nannopterum (Phalacrocorax) brasilianus (Suliformes: Phalacrocoracidae) is widely distributed in Central and South America. In Chile, information about parasites for this species is limited to helminths and nematodes, and little is known about other parasite groups. This study documents the parasitic fauna present in 80 Neotropic cormorants' carcasses collected from 2001 to 2008 in Antofagasta, Biobío, and Ñuble regions. Birds were externally inspected for ectoparasites and necropsies were performed to examine digestive and respiratory organs in search of endoparasites. Ectoparasites collected were cleared and mounted for identification under a microscope. Fecal samples were also evaluated to determine the presence of protozoan parasites employing a flotation technique. A total of 44 (42.5%) of birds were infested with at least one ectoparasite species, while 77 (96.25%) were carrying endoparasites. No protozoan forms were found after examination. Most prevalent endoparasite species found were Contracaecum rudolphii s. l. (72/80, 90%), followed by Pectinopygus gyroceras (33/80, 41.25%), and Profilicollis altmani (26/80, 32.5%). This is the first report of P. altmani, Baruscapillaria carbonis, Avioserpens sp., Cyathostoma (Cyathostoma) phenisci, and Eidmaniella pelucida in the Neotropic cormorant. These findings also expand the distributional range of Andracantha phalacrocoracis, Paradilepis caballeroi, Hysteromorpha triloba, and P. gyroceras to Chile.

Resumo O Biguá Nannopterum (Phalacrocorax) brasilianus (Suliformes: Phalacrocoracidae) é amplamente distribuído na América Central e na do Sul. No Chile, as informações sobre parasitos para essa espécie são limitadas a helmintos e nematoides, e pouco se sabe sobre outros grupos de parasitos. Este estudo documenta a fauna parasitária presente em 80 biguás coletados de 2001 a 2008, nas regiões de Antofagasta, Biobío e Ñuble. As aves foram inspecionadas externamente em busca de ectoparasitas; adicionalmente, foram realizadas necropsias para examinar os órgãos digestivos e respiratórios em busca de endoparasitos. Os ectoparasitos coletados foram limpos e montados para identificação ao microscópio. As amostras de fezes também foram avaliadas para determinar a presença de parasitos protozoários, empregando-se uma técnica de flutuação. Um total de 44 (42,5%) aves estavam infectadas com pelo menos um ectoparasito, enquanto 77 (96,25%) estavam portando endoparasito. Nenhuma forma de protozoário foi encontrada após o exame. As espécies de endoparasitos mais prevalentes encontradas foram Contracaecum rudolphii (72/80, 90%), Pectinopygus gyroceras (33/80, 41.25%) e Profilicollis altmani (26/80, 32.5%). Este é o primeiro registro de P. altmani, Baruscapillaria carbonis, Avioserpens sp., Cyathostoma (Cyathostoma) phenisci e Eidmaniella pelucida no biguá. Esses resultados também expandem a distribuição de Andracantha phalacrocoracis, Paradilepis caballeroi, Ascocotyle felippei, Hysteromorpha triloba e P. gyroceras no Chile.

External and intestinal parasites of the Austral thrush Turdus falcklandii (Aves, Turdidae) in central Chile.

A total of thirty Austral thrushes Turdus falcklandii Quoy & Gaimard, 1824 (Turdidae) carcasses were brought to the Departamento de Ciencia Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad de Concepción, to be examined for ecto- and endoparasites. Ectoparasites were found on 20% (6/30) of the thrushes and belonged to species Brueelia magellanica Cichino, 1986 (Phthiraptera), Menacanthus eurysternus Burmeister, 1838 (Phthiraptera) and Tyrannidectes falcklandicus Mironov & González-Acuña, 2011 (Acari). Endoparasites were isolated from 26.6% (8/30) of the birds and identified as Lueheia inscripta Westrumb, 1821 (Acanthocephala), Plagiorhynchus cylindraceus Goeze, 1782 (Acanthocephala), Wardium sp. sensu Mayhew, 1925 (Cestoda), Dilepis undula (Cestoda) Schrank, 1788, and Zonorchis sp. (sensu Travassos, 1944) (Trematoda). To our knowledge, all endoparasites collected in this study are new records in T. falcklandii and expand their distributional range to Chile.

Diagnóstico de parásitos en heces del huemul (Hippocamelus bisulcus) en el centro y sur de Chile / Diagnosis of parasites in huemul (Hippocamelus bisulcus) feces from south and central Chile

RESUMEN Objetivo. Identificar parásitos en heces del huemul (Hippocamelus bisulcus) presente en áreas naturales protegidas del centro y sur de Chile y evaluar diferencias en la prevalencia de parásitos entre regiones y estaciones del año. Materiales y métodos. 200 muestras de heces de huemul fueron colectadas de distintas localidades de las regiones de Ñuble, Aysén y Magallanes a lo largo de todas las estaciones entre los años 2006 y 2008. Las muestras fueron analizadas utilizando las técnicas de flotación y sedimentación, para ser posteriormente observadas en el microscópio con el objetivo de detectar parásitos. Adicionalmente, se analizaron 124 de estas muestras para determinar la presencia de Fasciola hepatica. Resultados. El 38.0% (n = 76/200) de las muestras analizadas fueron positivas a algún parásito, observándose una prevalencia de 11.8% (n = 2/17) en Ñuble, 22.8% (n = 28/123) en Aysén y un 76.7% (n=46/60) en Magallanes. En Ñuble se encontraron huevos de Moniezia sp., mientras que en Aysén y Magallanes se identificaron huevos tipo Estrongílido, Nematodirus sp. y ooquistes de Eimeria spp. No se evidenció F. hepatica en las muestras analizadas. Se detectan diferencias de parasitismo entre las estaciones (p≤0.05) en Aysén y Magallanes. Conclusiones. La diferencia en la prevalencia y diversidad parasitaria entre regiones incluidas en este estudio pueden estar relacionadas con la disimilitud en la densidad poblacional de huemules y la masa ganadera de cada región. Es necesario continuar con monitoreos parasitológicos en poblaciones de huemul en Chile sur y central y estudiar la relación de esta especie con el ganado y la posible transmisión inter- e intraespecífica de parásitos.

ABSTRACT Objective. Identify parasites in huemul (Hippocamelus bisulcus) feces from natural protected areas of south-central Chile and evaluate differences in parasite prevalence between regions and seasons. Materials and methods. 200 fecal samples from huemul were collected during all seasons of the year from different localities of the Ñuble, Aysén and Magallanes regions between years 2006 and 2008. Samples were analyzed using flotation and sedimentation techniques and further observed with the microscope in order to detect parasites. Additionally, 124 samples were analyzed to determine the presence of Fasciola hepatica. Results. The 38.0% (n=76/200) of samples were positive to at least one parasite form, evidencing a prevalence of 11.8% (n = 2/17) in Ñuble, 22.8% (n = 28/123) in Aysén and a 76.7% (n=46/60) in Magallanes. Moniezia sp. eggs were found in the Ñuble region, meanwhile, Strongyle-type eggs, Nematodirus sp. eggs and Eimeria spp. oocysts were found in the Aysén and Magallanes regions. There was no evidence of F. hepatica during sample examination. Differences in parasitism were detected between seasons in Aysén and Magallanes (p≤0.05). Conclusions. Aysén and Magallanes regions showed a relatively higher prevalence and diversity of parasites than the Ñuble region. This could be related to differences in density of huemul populations and livestock in each region. Further parasitological surveys in huemul populations from central and southern Chile should be performed in the future. Studies involving the relationship between the huemul and livestock and the potential inter- and intraspecific transmission of parasites are also required.