Agreement and diagnostic differences among three definitions of sarcopenia in patients with chronic hepatitis C.

BACKGROUND: There is neither a gold standard definition nor a universal consensus to diagnose sarcopenia in patients with chronic hepatitis C. Thus, we aimed to compare the prevalence of sarcopenia and the agreement and discrepancies between European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People (EWGSOP1), EWGSOP2, and Foundation for the National Institutes of Health Biomarkers Consortium Sarcopenia Project (FNIH) definitions in chronic hepatitis C. METHODS: Dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry was used to assess muscle mass by quantifying appendicular lean mass (ALM) adjusted for squared height (ALM/ht2) or for body mass index (ALMBMI). Muscle function was evaluated by handgrip strength. Subjective Global Assessment was used to assess the nutrition status. RESULTS: This cross-sectional study included 103 outpatients (mean age, 50.6 ± 11.3 years; 33.0% with compensated cirrhosis). Sarcopenia prevalence was 8.7%, 9.7%, and 9.7%, according to EWGSOP1, EWGSOP2, and FNIH definitions, respectively. There was neither a sex- nor a liver disease severity-specific difference in the prevalence of sarcopenia between the criteria applied. Sixteen (15.5%) patients fulfilled at least one of these criteria, and 3 out of 16 (18.8%) simultaneously had sarcopenia by consensus of the three criteria. Sarcopenic obesity was identified in 9 out of 16 (56.3%) patients, and 6 out of 9 (66.7%) of these only met FNIH consensus. CONCLUSIONS: In patients without cirrhosis or with compensated cirrhosis, and with chronic hepatitis C, the agreement between EWGSOP1 and EWGSOP2 classifications was substantial for sarcopenia diagnosis. Concerning EWGSOP and FNIH criteria, a fair agreement and limited overlap were found in these patients.

Forage cactus as an additive in corn without the cob silages of feedlot sheep diets.

This study aimed to assess the impact of adding forage cactus as an additive to the production of corn silage without the cob on the performance of feedlot sheep and subsequent silage losses. The experimental design was completely randomized, consisting of three treatments: corn silage without cob; 0% = 100% corn plant without the cob; 10% = 90% corn plant without cob + 10% forage cactus; 20% = 80% corn plant without cob + 20% forage cactus. Significant effects were observed for dry matter intake (P = 0.0201), organic matter (P = 0.0152), ether extract (P = 0.0001), non-fiber carbohydrates (P = 0.0007). Notably, nutrient digestibility showed significant differences in organic matter (P = 0.0187), ether extract (P = 0.0095), neutral detergent fiber (P = 0.0005), non-fiber carbohydrates (P = 0.0001), and metabolizable energy (P = 0.0001). Performance variables, including total weight gain (P = 0.0148), average daily weight gain (P = 0.0148), feeding efficiency, and rumination efficiency of dry matter (P = 0.0113), also exhibited significant effects. Consequently, it is recommended to include 20% forage cactus in corn silage, which, based on natural matter, helps meet animals' water needs through feed. This inclusion is especially vital in semi-arid regions and aids in reducing silage losses during post-opening silo disposal.

On-demand low-frequency stimulation for seizure control: efficacy and behavioural implications.

Mesial temporal lobe epilepsy (MTLE), the most common form of focal epilepsy in adults, is often refractory to medication and associated with hippocampal sclerosis. Deep brain stimulation represents an alternative treatment option for drug-resistant patients who are ineligible for resective brain surgery. In clinical practice, closed-loop stimulation at high frequencies is applied to interrupt ongoing seizures, yet has (i) a high incidence of false detections; (ii) the drawback of delayed seizure-suppressive intervention; and (iii) limited success in sclerotic tissue. As an alternative, low-frequency stimulation (LFS) has been explored recently in patients with focal epilepsies. In preclinical epilepsy models, hippocampal LFS successfully prevented seizures when applied continuously. Since it would be advantageous to reduce the stimulation load, we developed a protocol for on-demand LFS. Given the importance of the hippocampus for navigation and memory, we investigated potential consequences of LFS on hippocampal function. To this end, we used the intrahippocampal kainate mouse model, which recapitulates the key features of MTLE, including spontaneous seizure activity and hippocampal sclerosis. Specifically, our online detection algorithm monitored epileptiform activity in hippocampal local field potential recordings and identified short epileptiform bursts preceding focal seizure clusters, triggering hippocampal LFS to stabilize the network state. To probe behavioural performance, we tested the acute influence of LFS on anxiety-like behaviour in the light-dark box test, spatial and non-spatial memory in the object location memory and novel object recognition test, as well as spatial navigation and long-term memory in the Barnes maze. On-demand LFS was almost as effective as continuous LFS in preventing focal seizure clusters but with a significantly lower stimulation load. When we compared the behavioural performance of chronically epileptic mice to healthy controls, we found that both groups were equally mobile, but epileptic mice displayed an increased anxiety level, altered spatial learning strategy and impaired memory performance. Most importantly, with the application of hippocampal LFS before behavioural training and test sessions, we could rule out deleterious effects on cognition and even show an alleviation of deficits in long-term memory recall in chronically epileptic mice. Taken together, our findings may provide a promising alternative to current therapies, overcoming some of their major limitations, and inspire further investigation of LFS for seizure control in focal epilepsy syndromes.

HIGH-DENSITY LIPOPROTEIN CHOLESTEROL AND SYSTEMIC ARTERIAL HYPERTENSION ARE ASSOCIATED WITH HEPATIC NECROINFLAMMATORY ACTIVITY IN PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC HEPATITIS C.

•HDL cholesterol levels <60 mg/dL were independently associated with necroinflammatory activity in chronic hepatitis C (CHC). •CHC patients with hypertension are at an increased risk of developing necroinflammatory activity. •In patients with CHC, liver fibrosis was independently associated with old age, steatosis, and HDL-C <60 mg/dL. •Triglycerides levels ≥150 mg/dL were associated with lobular inflammatory activity in patients with CHC. Background - Approximately 71 million people are chronically infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV) worldwide. A significant number of these individuals will develop liver cirrhosis and/or hepatocellular carcinoma. Beyond the liver, there is a sizeable body of scientific evidence linking cardiovascular disease and chronic hepatitis C (CHC); however, the biological mechanisms behind the concurrence of these conditions have not been completely clarified yet. Objective - To evaluate associations between hepatic histology, clinical comorbidities and lipid profile in patients with CHC. To investigate associations between liver histology and demographic, nutritional, biochemical and virological parameters. Methods - Eight-five patients with CHC prospectively underwent hepatic biopsy. Liver fragments were obtained from each patient by percutaneous route using a Menghini needle. Fibrosis was evaluated according to the METAVIR scoring system, as follows: F0, no fibrosis; F1, fibrous portal expansion; F2, fibrous portal widening with few septa; F3, bridging fibrosis with architectural distortion; and F4, liver cirrhosis. The activity was classified based on the degree of lymphocyte infiltration and hepatocyte necrosis, from A0 to A3. The diagnosis of liver disease was based on clinical, biochemical, histological, and radiological methods. The data were analyzed by logistic regression models. Results - This cross-sectional study included 85 outpatients followed at the tertiary care ambulatory centre with a mean age of 57.2±10.7 years and 45 (52.9%) were females. There were 10 patients with cirrhosis. Patients with a METAVIR F3-F4 were significantly older (P=0.02) and had higher levels of ALT (P=0.0006), AST (P<0.0001), γ-GT (P=0.03) and bilirubin (P=0.001) and higher prothrombin time than patients with F0-F2 score. Albumin levels (P=0.01) were significantly lower in METAVIR F3-F4. Age (OR=1.09; 95%CI=1.02-1.16; P=0.02), steatosis (OR=4.03; 95%CI=1.05-15.45; P=0.04) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) <60 mg/dL (OR=7.67; 95%CI=1.71-34.49; P=0.008) were independently associated with fibrosis. Hypertension (OR=6.36; 95%CI=1.31-30.85; P=0.02) and HDL-C <60 mg/dL (OR=9.85; 95%CI=2.35-41.39; P=0.002) were independently associated with necroinflammatory activity. Hypertension (OR=6.94; 95%CI=1.92-25.05; P=0.003) and HDL-C <60 mg/dL (OR=3.94; 95%CI=1.27-12.3; P=0.02) were associated with interface inflammatory activity. Triglycerides (TG ≥150 mg/dL) remained associated with lobular inflammatory activity. Conclusion - cholesterol levels <60 mg/dL were independently associated with necroinflammatory activity in chronic hepatitis C. Patients with hypertension are at an increased risk of developing necroinflammatory activity.

Lipoproteína de alta densidade e hipertensão arterial sistêmica estão associados à atividade necroinflamatória hepática em pacientes com hepatite C crônica / High-density lipoprotein cholesterol and systemic arterial hypertension are associated with hepatic necroinflammatory activity in patients with chronic hepatitis c

ABSTRACT Background: Approximately 71 million people are chronically infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV) worldwide. A significant number of these individuals will develop liver cirrhosis and/or hepatocellular carcinoma. Beyond the liver, there is a sizeable body of scientific evidence linking cardiovascular disease and chronic hepatitis C (CHC); however, the biological mechanisms behind the concurrence of these conditions have not been completely clarified yet. Objective: To evaluate associations between hepatic histology, clinical comorbidities and lipid profile in patients with CHC. To investigate associations between liver histology and demographic, nutritional, biochemical and virological parameters. Methods: Eight-five patients with CHC prospectively underwent hepatic biopsy. Liver fragments were obtained from each patient by percutaneous route using a Menghini needle. Fibrosis was evaluated according to the METAVIR scoring system, as follows: F0, no fibrosis; F1, fibrous portal expansion; F2, fibrous portal widening with few septa; F3, bridging fibrosis with architectural distortion; and F4, liver cirrhosis. The activity was classified based on the degree of lymphocyte infiltration and hepatocyte necrosis, from A0 to A3. The diagnosis of liver disease was based on clinical, biochemical, histological, and radiological methods. The data were analyzed by logistic regression models. Results: This cross-sectional study included 85 outpatients followed at the tertiary care ambulatory centre with a mean age of 57.2±10.7 years and 45 (52.9%) were females. There were 10 patients with cirrhosis. Patients with a METAVIR F3-F4 were significantly older (P=0.02) and had higher levels of ALT (P=0.0006), AST (P<0.0001), γ-GT (P=0.03) and bilirubin (P=0.001) and higher prothrombin time than patients with F0-F2 score. Albumin levels (P=0.01) were significantly lower in METAVIR F3-F4. Age (OR=1.09; 95%CI=1.02-1.16; P=0.02), steatosis (OR=4.03; 95%CI=1.05-15.45; P=0.04) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) <60 mg/dL (OR=7.67; 95%CI=1.71-34.49; P=0.008) were independently associated with fibrosis. Hypertension (OR=6.36; 95%CI=1.31-30.85; P=0.02) and HDL-C <60 mg/dL (OR=9.85; 95%CI=2.35-41.39; P=0.002) were independently associated with necroinflammatory activity. Hypertension (OR=6.94; 95%CI=1.92-25.05; P=0.003) and HDL-C <60 mg/dL (OR=3.94; 95%CI=1.27-12.3; P=0.02) were associated with interface inflammatory activity. Triglycerides (TG ≥150 mg/dL) remained associated with lobular inflammatory activity. Conclusion: cholesterol levels <60 mg/dL were independently associated with necroinflammatory activity in chronic hepatitis C. Patients with hypertension are at an increased risk of developing necroinflammatory activity.

RESUMO Contexto: Aproximadamente 71 milhões de pessoas estão infectadas pelo vírus da hepatite C em todo o mundo. Um número significativo desses indivíduos desenvolverá cirrose hepática e/ou carcinoma hepatocelular. Além do fígado, há evidências científicas que associam doenças cardiovasculares e hepatite C crônica; no entanto, os mecanismos biológicos implicados na ocorrência dessas condições ainda não foram completamente esclarecidos. Objetivo: Avaliar a associação entre histologia hepática, comorbidades clínicas e perfil lipídico em pacientes com hepatite C crônica. Investigar associações entre histologia hepática e parâmetros demográficos, nutricionais, bioquímicos e virológicos. Métodos: Oitenta e cinco pacientes com hepatite C crônica foram prospectivamente submetidos à biópsia hepática. Biópsias hepáticas foram obtidas de cada paciente por via percutânea com agulha de Menghini. A fibrose foi avaliada de acordo com o sistema de pontuação METAVIR, como segue: F0, sem fibrose; F1, expansão portal fibrosa; F2, alargamento portal fibroso com poucos septos; F3, fibrose em ponte com distorção arquitetônica; e F4, cirrose hepática. A atividade foi classificada com base no grau de infiltração de linfócitos e necrose de hepatócitos, de A0 a A3. O diagnóstico da doença hepática foi baseado em métodos clínicos, bioquímicos, histológicos e radiológicos. Os dados foram analisados por modelos de regressão logística. Resultados: Neste estudo transversal, realizado em um ambulatório do hospital universitário, foram incluídos 85 pacientes que tinham média de idade de 57,2±10,7 anos, sendo 45 (52,9%) do sexo feminino. Havia 10 pacientes com cirrose. Os pacientes com METAVIR F3-F4 eram significativamente mais velhos (P=0,02) e tinham níveis mais elevados de ALT (P=0,0006), AST (P<0,0001), γ-GT (P=0,03) e bilirrubina (P=0,001) e, maior tempo de protrombina do que pacientes com escore F0-F2. Os níveis de albumina (P=0,01) foram significativamente mais baixos naqueles classificados como METAVIR F3-F4. Idade (OR=1,09; IC95%=1,02-1,16; P=0,02), esteatose (OR=4,03; IC95%=1,05-15,45; P=0,04) e HDL-C <60 mg/dL (OR=7,67; 95%IC=1,71-34,49; P=0,008) foram independentemente associados à fibrose. Hipertensão (OR=6,36; IC95%=1,31-30,85; P=0,02) e HDL-C <60 mg/dL (OR=9,85; IC95%=2,35-41,39; P=0,002) foram independentemente associados à atividade necroinflamatória. Hipertensão (OR=6,94; IC 95%=1,92-25,05; P=0,003) e HDL-C <60 mg/dL (OR=3,94; IC95%=1,27-12,3; P=0,02) foram associados à atividade inflamatória de interface. Os triglicerídeos (TG >150 mg/dL) permaneceram associados à atividade inflamatória lobular. Conclusão: Níveis de coleterol HDL <60 mg/dL foram independentemente associados à atividade necroinflamatória na hepatite C crônica. Pacientes com hipertensão têm risco aumentado de desenvolver atividade necroinflamatória.

Molecular phylogeny of two Rhinoxenus species (Monogenea: Dactylogyridae) from the nasal cavities of serrasalmids (Characiformes: Serrasalmidae) from Brazil.

The dactylogyrid genus Rhinoxenus (Monogenea: Dactylogyridae) is composed of specialized monogeneans infecting the nasal cavities of freshwater fishes from the Neotropical region. This taxon currently comprises 11 species and is easily distinguished from other monogeneans by the absence of the dorsal bar, ventral anchor with inconspicuous roots covered by a sclerotized cap, dorsal anchor greatly modified into a needle-like shape, and hook pair 2 located into bilateral lobes of the trunk. Specimens of Rhinoxenus euryxenus and Rhinoxenus paranaensis were found infecting the nasal cavities of Serrasalmus marginatus and Serrasalmus maculatus, respectively, from the Paraná River basin in Brazil. For the first time, molecular data of Rhinoxenus spp. were obtained and used as a basis for phylogenetic analyses of the genus. Furthermore, our findings represent the first record of R. paranaensis in Brazil.

Oncoceratium amphidactylum n. gen. n. sp. (Monogenoidea: Gyrodactylidae) from Hoplosternum littorale (Hancock) (Siluriformes, Callichthyidae) from southeastern Brazil.

Oncoceratium n. gen. is proposed to accommodate Oncoceratium amphidactylum n. gen. n. sp. (Monogenoidea, Gyrodactylidae). Although the proposed genus is monotypic, the differences presented in the diagnosis clearly establish it as distinct from species from other genera, such as Gyrodactylus von Nordmann, 1832 and especially those that occur exclusively in the Neotropical region. The new genus is diagnosed by the presence of a bulbous male copulatory organ, with one row of spinelets of similar sizes and shapes, while the only spine usually found in the gyrodactylids is absent or not differentiated; a haptor with anchors presenting points folded outwards, and superficial and deep roots continuous and indistinguishable; the absence of a deep bar; and hooks in two bilateral clusters of eight hooks. Oncoceratium amphidactylum n. gen. n. sp. is described from the tamboatá fish, Hoplosternum littorale (Hancock) (Callichthyidae), and is characterized by the presence of a pair of horn-shaped anchors with the point turned outwards, a superficial bar shield and absent deep bar, hooks disposed in bilateral lobes, and a MCO with no spine or with a row with large spinelets visible in place of the spine. In addition to the morphological features, distance analysis and Bayesian inference, based on 5.8s and partial ITS2, support placing the new species in a new genus, and not including it in a cluster of species of Gyrodactylus and near to Gyrodactyloides bychowskii Albova, 1948, Ieredactylus rivuli Schelkle et al., 2011 and Laminiscus gussevi (Bychowsky & Polyansky, 1953) Pálsson & Beverely-Burton, 1983.

Morphological and molecular characterization of Hysterothylacium spp. parasitizing Pomatomus saltatrix and Pagrus pagrus of the State of São Paulo, Brazil.

Raphidascarid nematodes have been the focus of several studies, mainly due to the zoonotic potential of some species, even though the cases are underreported. Due to the difficulty in identifying their larvae, the use of diagnostic techniques involving morphological and molecular analyses has grown in the last 20 years. The present study had as objective the morphological and molecular characterization of the L3 larval types of Hysterothylacium collected in Pomatomus saltatrix and Pagrus pagrus from the Brazilian coast, close to the municipality of Santos, State of São Paulo. Twenty specimens of P. saltatrix were necropsied and Hysterothylacium type V (n = 257) and Hysterothylacium type X (n = 5) larvae were found. Five specimens of P. pagrus were necropsied and all were parasitized by Hysterothylacium type V larvae. The analyses showed a genetic proximity relationship between Hysterothylacium types V with other Hysterothylacium V and with H. deardorffoverstreetorum, although this is a species inquirenda. Haplotypes for Hysterothylacium type X found in the present study formed a monophyletic group with other Hysterothylacium X, H. amoyense, and H. zhoushanense. Through this study, new hosts and localities were registered for Hysterothylacium type V and Hysterothylacium type X.

Diversity of myxozoans parasitizing the catfish Rhamdia quelen (Siluriformes: Heptapteridae), in southeastern Brazil, based on morphological and molecular evidence.

Rhamdia quelen is a commercially important fish in South America. During the survey of myxozoan infections in fishes from Pardo River, Paranapanema River basin, São Paulo State, Brazil, we describe three new species of Henneguya found parasitizing gills of R. quelen: Henneguya bagre n. sp., Henneguya breviscauda n. sp and Henneguya novaerae n. sp. The descriptions were based on myxospores morphology and small subunit ribosomal DNA partial sequences. Phylogenetic analysis showed a clade formed by species that parasitize Siluriformes, with Henneguya jundiai as a sister species of Henneguya bagre n. sp., Henneguya breviscauda n. sp and Henneguya novaerae n. sp. Our study indicates that the parasites infecting R. quelen belong to a lineage of myxozoans infecting Heptapteridae fishes. Using molecular and morphological characterization, the species were identified as new species for the genus Henneguya. Based on our analysis we recommend monitoring the presence of these parasites in farmed fishes, to analyze possible pathologies caused by them.

Henneguya polarislonga n. sp. (Cnidaria: Myxosporea) parasitizing Astyanax lacustris (Lütken, 1875) with an insight on its life cycle.

Henneguya polarislonga n. sp. is described from the gills of Astyanax lacustris (Lütken, 1875) (Characiformes, Characidae) from streams of the Middle Paranapanema River, Upper Paraná River basin, in the São Paulo State, Brazil. The proposed new species is supported by a combination of morphological and molecular characterization (partial fragment of the SSU rDNA). Thirty specimens of A. lacustris were analyzed and myxospores were found in the gill lamellae of one specimen (Prevalence = 3.3%). Henneguya polarislonga n. sp. was morphometrically and genetically distinct from other Henneguya spp. previously described in Astyanax spp., mainly differing in the total length and caudal appendages length of the mature myxospores. Comparative analysis of the SSU rDNA sequences revealed that Seisactinomyxon-type actinospores previously reported parasitizing oligochaetes are developmental stages of the life cycle of Henneguya polarislonga n. sp. (similarity of 99.9%). This is the first time that an actinospore and a myxospore are correlated through molecular analysis in Brazil, contributing to the knowledge of the myxozoan ecology and biodiversity.

A new species of Tiddergasilus Marques & Boeger, 2018 (Copepoda: Ergasilidae) from the gills of Astyanax lacustris (Lütken) (Osteichthyes: Characidae) in Brazil.

A new parasitic copepod, Tiddergasilus bipartitus n. sp. (Copepoda, Ergasilidae), is described herein based on three adult females found attached to the gills of the yellow-tail lambari Astyanax lacustris (Lütken), sampled in Pardo River, municipality of Botucatu, São Paulo State, Brazil. Tiddergasilus bipartitus n. sp. was recognized as a new member of the monotypic genus Tiddergasilus Marques & Boeger, 2018 by having: antennule 6-segmented; maxillary basis armed with 2 terminal teeth and ornamented with multiple spinules; second and third leg both with endopod 3-segmented. The new copepod can be distinguished from its congener, Tiddergasilus iheringi (Tidd, 1942), by the morphology of the antennal claw, number of somites/segments in abdomen and fourth leg, and by the ornamentation of the first leg. This report expands the geographic distribution and diversity of fish species parasitized with Tiddergasilus spp. in Brazil. Moreover, it also represents the first report of an ergasilid species in the Pardo River. A list of diagnostic features for the Brazilian species of Ergasilus von Nordmann, 1832 is provided herein, in order to aid comparisons with the species of this complex genus.

Taxonomy and Systematics of Two New Species of Myxobolus (Cnidaria: Myxobolidae) Parasitizing the Gills of Mugil curema (Mugilidae) from the Brazilian Coast.

PURPOSE: We describe two new species of Myxobolus (Myxobolidae) found parasitizing Mugil curema from two locations in Brazil: Myxobolus curemae n. sp. from gill arch and rays and Myxobolus maceioensis n. sp. from gill lamellae. METHODS: We based the descriptions on myxospore morphology, histology, and small-subunit ribosomal DNA sequences. RESULTS: Myxospores of the two new species had similar morphology and morphometry but differed in spore body width and length, and ssrDNA sequences differed by 10.5%. These data supported the diagnosis of the parasites as distinct and novel species. The phylogenetic analysis showed a subclade formed by species that parasitize Mugiliformes, with M. maceioensis n. sp. as a sister species of Myxobolus episquamalis and Myxobolus bizerti, while there is a group of six species that are sister related to M. curemae n. sp. Our analysis was consistent with previous studies suggesting that orders of the hosts are strongly correlated with phylogenetic signals in the Myxobolidae. CONCLUSIONS: Myxobolus curemae n. sp. and M. maceioensis n. sp. are new species identified parasitizing M. curema.

Microbiological Composition of Diets of Cactus Pear-Based with Increasing Levels of Buffel Grass Hay and Relationship to Nutritional Disorders in Sheep.

This study aimed to evaluate the microbiological composition of cactus pear-based diets with increasing levels of buffel grass hay, and its effect on the blood and physiological parameters and occurrence of diarrhea in feedlot sheep. Four diets containing different percentages of buffel grass hay were tested. Diets were composed of forage cactus, buffel grass hay and concentrate, and the treatments were represented by different levels of hay in the dry matter of the feed: 7.5% buffel grass hay; 15% buffel grass hay; 30% buffel grass hay; and 45% buffel grass hay on a dry matter basis. There was a significant effect (p = 0.0034) of inclusion levels of buffel grass hay on fecal score. Only at the 45% inclusion level diarrhea was not observed, showing that the level of buffel grass affected more the animals than the collection period, although the collection period has affected the microbial counts. Probably there was a physiological adaptation of animals over time. There were significant changes (p < 0.0001) in the blood parameters of sheep. The reduction of the proportion of cactus and the inclusion of greater than 15% buffel grass hay, on a dry matter basis, provides less contamination of the diet and animal feces by enterobacteria, such as E. coli.

Morphological, ultrastructural, and molecular analysis of a new species of Myxobolus (Cnidaria, Myxosporea) parasitizing Apareiodon piracicabae (Characiformes, Parodontidae) from Brazil.

About forty-two species of Myxobolus have been previously described to parasitize characiform fishes in South America. Here, we described a new myxozoan species, Myxobolus parodontidis n. sp., in the gills of Apareiodon piracicabae (Characiformes, Parodontidae) from the streams of the Middle Paranapanema River basin, Brazil. The proposed new species is supported by a combination of morphological, ultrastructural, and molecular characterization (small subunit ribosomal DNA). Thirteen specimens of A. piracicabae were analyzed and 30.8% was infected by Myxobolus parodontidis n. sp. The myxospores was classified as intralamellar asymmetric type. A few aberrant myxospores with three polar capsules were observed: the spore length and width were the same of normal myxospores, but the polar capsules had smaller sizes. Ultrastructural analysis showed that the plasmodial membrane of Myxobolus parodontidis n. sp. was in direct contact with the host tissue and a connective capsule surrounding the plasmodium was not observed. The phylogenetic analysis showed that the main influence in the clustering of species of myxobolids seems to be related to the phylogenetic relationships established among fish hosts, mainly at the level of family and order. This is the first record of a myxozoan species parasitizing parodontid fish, contributing to the knowledge of the biodiversity of myxozoans from Brazil.

Morphological and molecular characterization of the cryptic species Myxobolus cataractae n. sp. (Cnidaria: Myxozoa: Myxobolidae) parasitizing Imparfinis mirini (Siluriformes: Heptapteridae).

We describe Myxobolus cataractae n. sp., found parasitizing Imparfinis mirini from Cachoeirinha stream, a tributary of Pardo River, Paraná River basin, municipality of Botucatu, São Paulo State, Brazil. We based the description on myxospore morphology, histology, and small subunit ribosomal DNA partial sequences. Whitish and elongated mass of myxospores were found in gill filaments, occupying an intrafilamental position. The myxospores were slightly ellipsoidal and the morphometric measurements revealed a myxospore body length of 7.8 ± 0.4 µm; myxospore width of 5.9 ± 0.4 µm; and thickness of 3.9 ± 0.3 µm. The polar capsules are equal in size and measured 3.5 ± 0.2 µm in length and 1.7 ± 0.2 µm in width. The polar tubules had 6-7 coils. Myxobolus cataractae n. sp. is classified as the intrafilamental type and chondreal subtype by the histological analysis of gills. Phylogenetic analysis showed a well-supported subclade formed by species that parasitize gills of Siluriformes, with M. imparfinis as a sister species of Myxobolus cataractae n. sp. Using molecular and morphological characterization, this cryptic species was identified as a new species of the genus Myxobolus.

Stakeholders, fatores críticos de sucesso e geração de valor em parcerias público-privadas / Stakeholders, factores críticos de éxito y generación de valor en alianzas público-privadas / Stakeholders, critical success factors, and value creation in public-private partnerships

Resumo Este estudo tem como objetivo analisar o papel dos stakeholders na geração de valor em parcerias público-privadas no Brasil, considerando suas motivações e os fatores críticos que determinam o sucesso desse tipo de colaboração. Para tanto, foram analisadas parcerias dos governos federal, estaduais e municipais por meio da análise de conteúdo de documentos e entrevistas com representantes dos setores público e privado envolvidos. A identificação dos stakeholders foi feita mediante a utilização simultânea de modelos que permitem demonstrar os múltiplos papéis desempenhados pelos atores na formulação e na implementação de políticas públicas (R. C. Gomes et al., 2010), seu potencial de ameaça ou de cooperação (Savage et al., 1991) e seu grau de saliência (Mitchell et al., 1997). Além disso, foram identificados os fatores críticos de sucesso, os elementos de valor e os fatores determinantes para a cooperação mais recorrentes nessas parcerias. Ademais, foi proposto um modelo de análise que permite a identificação de tais elementos, a fim de possibilitar que o tomador de decisão trace uma estratégia para lidar com eles.

Resumen Este estudio tiene como objetivo analizar el papel de los stakeholders en la generación de valor en las alianzas público-privadas en Brasil, considerando sus motivaciones y los factores críticos que determinan el éxito de este tipo de colaboración. Con este fin, se analizaron las asociaciones entre los gobiernos federal, estatales y municipales, a través del análisis de contenido de documentos y entrevistas con representantes de los sectores público y privado involucrados en tales asociaciones. La identificación de los stakeholders se realizó mediante el uso simultáneo de modelos que permiten demostrar los múltiples roles que desempeñan los actores en la formulación e implementación de políticas públicas (R. C. Gomes et al., 2010), su potencial de amenaza o de cooperación (Savage et al., 1991) y su grado de notoriedad (Mitchell et al., 1997). Además, se identificaron los factores críticos de éxito más frecuentes, los elementos de valor y los factores determinantes para la cooperación en tales alianzas. Asimismo, se propone un modelo de análisis que permite la identificación de dichos elementos para que el tomador de decisiones pueda diseñar una estrategia para tratar con ellos.

Abstract This study analyzes the role of stakeholders in the value creation in public-private partnerships in Brazil, considering their motivations and the critical factors that determine the success of this type of collaboration. We analyzed partnerships between federal, state, and local governments through content analysis of documents and interviews with representatives of the public and private sectors involved in such partnerships. Stakeholders identification was conducted through the simultaneous use of models that allow demonstrating the multiple roles played by the actors, i.e. the role in public policies formulation and implementation (R. C. Gomes et al., 2010), their potential for threat or cooperation (Savage et al., 1991), and salience degree (Mitchell et al., 1997). In addition, the most recurrent critical success factors, value elements, and determining factors for cooperation in such partnerships were identified. Furthermore, an analytical model is proposed to identify such elements so that decision-makers can devise a strategy to deal with them.

Description of Two Novel Henneguya (Cnidaria: Myxosporea) Infecting Curimatid Fish, Using Morphological, Histological, and Molecular Analyses.

PURPOSE: We describe two new Henneguya spp. (Myxobolidae) found parasitizing Cyphocharax modestus from Pardo river, Paraná river basin, municipality of Botucatu, São Paulo State, Brazil: Henneguya fastigata n. sp. from gill lamellae and Henneguya pardensis n. sp. from gill arches. We based the descriptions on myxospore morphology, histology, and small subunit ribosomal DNA sequences. METHODS: In this investigation, 50 specimens of Cyphocharax modestus were examined between July and December 2020 for myxozoan infections. Morphological characterization was based on the mature myxospores. The small subunit ribosomal DNA sequences were used for molecular and phylogenetic study. RESULTS: Phylogenetic analysis provided the evolutionary position of these new species with other myxobolids species. Myxospores of the two species had similar morphology and morphometrics, but differed in spore body width and length, and ssrDNA sequences differed by 7.2%. These data supported the diagnosis of the parasites as distinct and novel species. The phylogenetic analysis showed a well-supported subclade formed by species that parasitize curimatid fishes, with Henneguya gilbert as a sister species of Henneguya fastigata n. sp., and Henneguya pardensis n. sp. as a sister species of both species. CONCLUSION: Our analysis was consistent with previous studies suggesting that orders and families of the hosts are strongly correlated with phylogenetic signals in the Myxobolidae. These are the first species of myxozoans described in the Pardo river.

A new species of Phanerothecium (Monogenea, Oogyrodactylidae), in Hypostomus regani (Loricariidae) from southeast Brazil / Uma nova espécie de Phanerothecium (Monogenea, Oogyrodactylidae), de Hypostomus regani (Loricariidae) do sudeste do Brasil

Abstract: A new species of Phanerothecium Kritsky & Thatcher, 1977 (Oogyrodactylidae Harris, 1983) is described from locariid fish from southeast Brazil. Phanerothecium macrosomum n. sp. (Oogyrodactylidae) is described from the body surface of Hypostomus regani (Ihering, 1905) (Loricariidae). It is characterized by an armed male copulatory organ containing spines of different size from proximal to distal extremity, short peduncle and robust haptor.

Resumo: Uma nova espécie de Phanerothecium Kritsky & Thatcher, 1977 (Oogyrodactylidae Harris, 1983) é descrita em peixes locariídeos do sudeste do Brasil. Phanerothecium macrosomum sp. n. (Oogyrodactylidae) é descrito da superfície corporal de Hypostomus regani (Ihering, 1905) (Loricariidae) e é caracterizado pela presença de órgão copulador masculino armado contendo espinhos de diferentes tamanhos da extremidade proximal à distal, pedúnculo curto e haptor robusto.

Description of a new species of myxobolid parasite, Henneguya pindaibensis n. sp. (Cnidaria: Myxosporea), infecting the gills of Boulengerella cuvieri (Spix and Agassiz, 1829) from Brazil.

Myxozoans are microscopic cnidarians that mainly parasitize fishes. The present study aimed to describe a new myxozoan parasite from the gills of Boulengerella cuvieri (Spix and Agassiz, 1829) by morphological and molecular analysis. The fish was collected in 2019 at the Pindaíba River, municipality of Cocalinho, Mato Grosso State, Brazil. Whitish and circular plasmodia were found in the primary gill filaments, occupying an intralamellar position, with an average of 0.5 mm in diameter. Henneguya Thélohan, 1892 myxospores found inside the plasmodia were elongated and ellipsoidal, consisting of two long and elliptical shell valves with two long, tapering caudal appendages. Morphometric measurements revealed a total spore length of 36.1 ± 2.0 µm; spore body length of 12.8 ± 0.5 µm; spore width of 4.9 ± 0.3 µm; tail length of 23.3 ± 1.6 µm; capsule length of 7.2 ± 0.4 µm; capsule width of 1.5 ± 0.2 µm; and 10 coils in the polar filament. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the isolates from this study were grouped into the main-clade of freshwater fishes, within a group of species parasitizing fishes from Brazil. Intergenotypic difference ranged from 23%-25.9% compared with other Brazilian myxozoan isolates. Using molecular and morphological characterization, this parasite was identified as a new species of the genus Henneguya.