Etiología, clínica y evolución de infecciones fúngicas invasoras en pacientes con neoplasias hematológicas en un hospital universitario de Argentina / Etiology, clinical characteristics and outcomes of invasive fungal infection in patients with hematological malignancies in a university hospital in Argentina

INTRODUCCIÓN: Las infecciones fúngicas invasoras (IFI) en pacientes con neoplasias hematológicas (NH) representan un desafío diagnóstico y terapéutico. OBJETIVOS: Describir la etiología, características clínicas, diagnóstico y evolución de los episodios de IFI probadas y probables en pacientes con NH y trasplante de progenitores hematopoyéticos (TPH). PACIENTES Y MÉTODOS: Estudio descriptivo, retrospectivo y de cohorte que incluyó IFI probadas y probables en pacientes adultos con NH y TPH. Se realizó seguimiento hasta el día 90. RESULTADOS: Se incluyeron 80 episodios de IFI: 49% probadas y 51% probables, 67,5% por hongos filamentosos (HF), 30% por hongos levaduriformes (HL) y 2,5% por hongos dimorfos. Los tipos de IFI más frecuentes fueron aspergilosis invasoras pulmonares (AP) y candidiasis invasoras (CI), en su mayoría por Candida spp. no albicans. Todos los casos de AP se diagnosticaron por detección de galactomanano en sangre y/o lavado broncoalveolar, y solamente 22,2% presentaban nódulos con halo en la tomografía computada (TC) de tórax, siendo los infiltrados inespecíficos los hallazgos más frecuentes. Tuvieron coinfección bacteriana y viral el 30 y 17,5%, respectivamente. El 50% fueron IFI de brecha, y la mortalidad global y mortalidad relacionada a la IFI fue 51 y 24%, respectivamente. CONCLUSIÓN: Los HF fueron la principal causa de IFI, con una gran proporción de IFI de brecha, y presentaron elevada mortalidad. Para el diagnóstico, resulta importante la utilización de biomarcadores y jerarquizar cualquier imagen patológica en la TC.

BACKGROUND: Invasive fungal infections (IFI) in patients with hematological malignancies (HM) represent a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. AIM: To describe the etiology, clinical characteristics, diagnosis and evolution of proven and probable IFI episodes in patients with HM and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). METHODS: Retrospective, descriptive, cohort study performed in adult patients with HM and HSCT, who developed proven and probable IFI. Follow-up was carried out until day 90. RESULTS: A total of 80 IFI episodes were included: 49% proven and 51% probable, 67,5% due to mold (M), 30% to yeast-like fungi (Y) and 2,5% to dimorphic fungi. The most frequent causes were probable pulmonary aspergillosis (PA) and invasive candidiasis (IC), mainly due to non-albicans Candida species. PA were all diagnosed by detection of galactomannan (GM) in blood and bronchoalveolar lavage, and only 22,2% presented halo sign on chest CT. Bacterial and viral coinfections were reported in 30% and 17,5% respectively. Breakthrough IFI occurred in 50%, and global and IFI-related mortality were 51% and 24% respectively. CONCLUSION: Mold was the main cause of IFI, with a large proportion of breakthrough IFI, presenting high mortality. The use of biomarkers and the classification of any pathological image on CT contribute to the diagnosis.

Infecciones fúngicas invasoras en niños con cáncer y portadores de aplasia medular severa en nueve hospitales de la red PINDA, Chile. 2016-2020 / Invasive fungal infections in children with cancer and severe aplastic anemia in nine hospitals from PINDA Network, Chile. 2016-2020

INTRODUCCIÓN: La infección fúngica invasora (IFI) es una causa importante de morbilidad y mortalidad en pacientes oncológicos pediátricos y portadores de aplasia medular (AM) severa. OBJETIVO: Describir la epidemiología de la IFI desde el año 2016 al 2020 en niños con cáncer y AM para evaluar la necesidad de profilaxis antifúngica. MÉTODOS: Estudio retrospectivo, multicéntrico, en pacientes pediátricos con cáncer y AM severa. Se incluyeron IFI probables y probadas. RESULTADOS: Se diagnosticaron 57 casos de IFI, mediana de edad 9 años, 70% probadas y 30% probables. Hubo 42% de infecciones por levaduras y 56% por hongos filamentosos. Los sitios de infección más frecuentes fueron pulmón 38%, sangre 36% y rinosinusal 21%. La frecuencia global fue 5,4%; de ellas 21% en AM severa, 10% en leucemia mieloide aguda (LMA), 6,9% en recaída de LMA, 5,4% en recaída de leucemia linfática aguda (LLA), 3,8% en LLA. Las infecciones por hongos filamentosos predominaron en LMA, recaída de LMA. y AM severa. La mortalidad en pacientes con IFI fue de 11%. CONCLUSIÓN: La frecuencia de IFI concuerda con la literatura médica. Recomendamos profilaxis antifúngica contra hongos filamentosos en pacientes con AM severa, LMA y recaída de LMA. Considerar en recaída de LLA de alto riesgo en etapa de inducción.

BACKGROUND: Invasive fungal infections (IFIs) are an important cause of morbidity and mortality in pediatric oncology patients and severe aplastic anemia (SAA). AIM: To describe the epidemiology of IFI from 2016 to 2020 in children with cancer and SAA to assess the indication of antifungal prophylaxis. METHODS: Multicenter, retrospective study of IFIs in pediatric oncology patients and SAA. Probable and proven IFIs were included. RESULTS: Over the 5-year period, 57 IFIs were found, median age 9 years, 70% were proven and 30% were probable. Yeast infections were 42% and mold infections 56%. The most frequent infection sites were lung 38%, blood 36% and rhinosinusal 21%. The total IFI frequency was 5.4%, 21% in SAA, 10% in acute myeloid leukemia (AML), 6.9% in relapsed AML, 5.4% in relapsed acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), 3.8% in ALL. Mold infections were predominant in AML, relapsed AML, and SAA. IFIs mortality was 11%. CONCLUSION: Frequency of IFI was consistent with the literature. We strongly recommend antifungal prophylaxis against mold infections in patients with SAA, AML, and relapsed AML. Would consider in high risk ALL relapse in induction chemotherapy.

Infección invasora por Trichosporon asahii en un niño con leucemia linfoblástica aguda / Invasive fungal infection by Trichosporon asahii in a pediatric patient with acute lymphoblastic leukemia: A case report and review of the literature

La enfermedad fúngica invasora (EFI) es una de las principales causas de morbimortalidad en los pacientes pediátricos inmunocom- prometidos. Los hongos que con mayor frecuencia causan EFI en este grupo de pacientes corresponden a especies de Candida y Aspergillus. Sin embargo, en los últimos años se ha descrito un aumento de patógenos no clásicos, tales como Fusarium, Scedosporium, Mucorales, Cryptococcus, Trichosporon, entre otros. Se presenta un caso de EFI por Trichosporon asahii en un preescolar con una leucemia linfo- blástica aguda en quimioterapia de inducción. Además, se presenta una revisión actualizada de la literatura especializada, con énfasis en la importancia del diagnóstico precoz y el tratamiento antifúngico específico.

Invasive fungal disease (IFD) is one of the leading causes of morbidity and death among immunosuppressed pediatric patients. The fungi that most frequently cause IFD in this group of patients correspond to Candida and Aspergillus species, however, in recent years an increase in non-classical pathogens, such as Fusarium, Scedosporium, Mucorales, Cryptococcus, Trichosporon, among others. A case of invasive fungal disease caused by Trichosporon asahii is presented in a preschool patient with acute lymphoblastic leukemia in induction stage. This review highlights the importance of active search for pathogens in immunosuppressed patients, and proposes a specific treatment.

Orquiepididimitis por Salmonella spp en un lactante bajo los tres meses de edad / Salmonella spp epididymo-orchitis in a infant under three months-old

El compromiso genitourinario en una infección causada por Salmonella spp es poco frecuente, especialmente en niños. Se presenta un paciente de 40 días de vida que presentó una orquiepididimitis por Salmonella entérica serotipo Newport, con documentación microbiológica en hemocultivos, cultivo de secreción escrotal y coprocultivo. No presentó compromiso del sistema nervioso central. Un tratamiento médico y quirúrgico tempranos permitieron la evolución favorable del paciente.

Genitourinary involvement in a Salmonella spp infection is rare, especially in pediatric patients. A 40-day-old patient who presented an orchiepididymitis due to Salmonella enterica Serotype Newport is reported, with microbiological documentation in blood cultures, culture of scrotal purulent material and stool culture. There was no involvement of the central nervous system. Early medical and surgical treatment allowed the favorable evolution of the patient.

A critical review of the precautionary approach of the IUCN impact classification for non-native taxa.

The International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) proposes the use of the Environmental Impact Classification for Alien Taxa to standardize the classification of introduced species (IS) based on their environmental impact. The IUCN invoked the precautionary principle (PP) via 2 rules: the impact assigned to a taxon must be the maximum recorded impact across different impact assessments, and when the main driver of environmental damage is unclear, it must be assumed to be caused by the IS. The validity of PP is conditioned on the degree of emergency that warrants urgent decisions and on the scientific evidence demonstrating the advantages of applying a preventive measure. The application of an impact classification system does not arise in the context of an emergency that requires management; it occurs before the decision-making phase. Thus, PP should not be used in early steps of the risk analysis process. The IUCN also did not provide enough scientific basis to justify the use of PP. Instead, the PP rules appear to be rooted primarily in the ethical value system underlying conservation science. Conservationists assign intrinsic value to native species by virtue of their roles and relationships within ecological and evolutionary systems and processes; thus, individuals introduced in new environments not only cease to have value because they are no longer part of that natural diversity and lack those links with the rest of the ecosystem, but they become a threat to what conservationists value most. The consequence of this belief is that all introduced taxa will have an impact at some level, suggesting that values justify the PP rules.

La Unión Internacional para la Conservación de la Naturaleza (UICN) propone usar la Clasificación del Impacto Ambiental para Taxones Exóticos (CIATE) para estandarizar la clasificación de las especies introducidas con base en su impacto ambiental. La UICN invocó el principio de precaución (PP) mediante dos reglas: el impacto asignado a un taxón debe ser el mayor impacto registrado en diferentes evaluaciones de impacto y cuando no sea claro el principal causante del daño ambiental, se debe asumir que lo causa la especie introducida. La validez del PP está condicionada por el grado de emergencia que amerite decisiones urgentes y por la evidencia científica que demuestre las ventajas de aplicar una medida preventiva. La aplicación de un sistema de clasificación de impactos no surge del contexto de una emergencia que requiere gestión, sino que ocurre antes de la fase de toma de decisiones. Por esto, el PP no debería usarse durante los primeros pasos del proceso de análisis de riesgo. La UICN tampoco proporcionó suficientes fundamentos científicos para justificar el uso del PP. En su lugar, las reglas del PP parecen estar ancladas principalmente en el sistema de valor ético subyacente a las ciencias de la conservación. Los conservacionistas les asignan un valor intrínseco a las especies nativas por su papel y sus relaciones dentro de los sistemas y procesos ecológicos y evolutivos; los individuos introducidos en ambientes nuevos no sólo dejan de tener valor porque ya no forman parte de la diversidad natural y carecen de esas conexiones con el resto del ecosistema, sino también se vuelven una amenaza para lo que más valoran los conservacionistas. Esta creencia tiene como consecuencia que todos los taxones introducidos tendrán un impacto a cierto nivel, lo que sugiere que el valor justifica las reglas del PP.

Una experiencia de siete años en el laboratorio de Micología del Hospital de Pediatría Juan P. Garrahan / A seven-year experience in the Mycology Laboratory of Hospital de Pediatría Juan P. Garrahan

En noviembre del año 2015 nos incorporamos al Laboratorio de Micología del Servicio de Microbiología del Hospital Garrahan. En este breve resumen queremos compartir los avances logrados a través de nuestra experiencia durante siete años de trabajo profesional. Debido a los diagnósticos realizados y su complejidad, consideramos que el Hospital Garrahan, sus pacientes y la comunidad toda necesitan contar con un laboratorio de Micología que responda a sus necesidades. Creemos haber iniciado un camino que esperamos continúe y culmine con la creación de la Unidad de Micología (AU)

In November 2015 we joined the Mycology Laboratory of the Microbiology Service of the Hospital Garrahan. In this brief summary we want to share the advances achieved through our experience during seven years of professional work. Due to the diagnosis made and their complexity, we believe that the Hospital Garrahan, its patients and the entire community, need to have a Mycology laboratory that responds to their requirements. We believe we have started a path that we hope will continue and culminate with the creation of the Mycology Unit (AU)

Determinación de viabilidad, vigor y banco de semillas de retamo espinoso (Ulex europaeus L.) en un Andisol de un ecosistema de Páramo

El retamo espinoso (Ulex europaeus L.) es una planta introducida invasora de rápido crecimiento y diseminación, con producción de semillas, que permanecen latentes en los primeros 5 cm de profundidad del suelo; esta planta altera espacios ecológicos nativos, áreas de producción agropecuaria y su control y erradicación no es exitosa. Conocer ciertas características de las semillas del retamo facilitará su control. Así, el objetivo de este trabajo, fue determinar el vigor, la viabilidad y el banco de semillas de retamo espinoso, en zonas del páramo de Sumapaz. Para las pruebas, se colectaron semillas en tres sitios: Delicias, Usabá y Laguna. La prueba de vigor, se llevó a cabo mediante conductividad eléctrica y la de viabilidad, por ensayo topográfico de tetrazolio; en cada prueba, se realizó cuatro repeticiones, cada una con 100 semillas; el diseño estadístico fue completamente al azar. Para el banco de semillas, se tomaron muestras de suelo, a profundidades 0-5, 5-10 y 10-20 cm y se dispusieron en bandejas de aluminio. La prueba de vigor mostró que, después de 6 horas de hidratación, la cantidad de iones lixiviados se estabilizó, con un valor de 38,51 µs.cm -1 g-1, a las diez horas, afirmando alto vigor de semillas. La prueba de viabilidad presentó un 98 % y el banco de semillas registró mayor cantidad en el horizonte de 10-20 cm, con 950 semillas.m2, en la Laguna. Este estudio demuestra que las semillas de retamo tienen altos valores de vigor, viabilidad y un abundante banco de semillas distribuidas a diferentes profundidades.

The gorse (Ulex europaeus L.) is an invasive introduced plant of rapid growth and spread, with seeds production that remain dormant in the first 5 cm of soil depth, this plant alters native ecological spaces, areas of agricultural production, and its control and eradication is not successful. Know certain characteristics of gorse seeds will facilitate its control. Thus, the purpose of this work was to determine the vigor, viability and seed bank of gorse in areas of the Sumapaz paramo. For the tests, seeds were collected in three sites: Delicias, Usabá and Laguna. The vigor test was carried out by means of electrical conductivity and the viability test by tetrazolium topographic assay, in each test four repetitions were carried out, each with 100 seeds, the statistical design was completely random. For the seed bank, soil samples were taken at depths of 0-5, 5-10 and 10-20 cm, and placed in aluminium trays. The vigor test showed that after 6 hours of hydration, the amount of leached ions stabilized with a value of 38.51 µs.cm -1 g-1 at ten hours, confirming high seed vigor. The viability test presented 98 % and the seed bank registered a greater quantity in the 10-20 cm horizon with 950 seeds.m2 in the Laguna. This study shows that gorse seeds have high values of vigor, viability, and an abundant seed bank distributed at different depths.

Primeros registros del rotífero invasor Kellicottia bostoniensis Rousselet, 1908 en diferentes ecosistemas de Colombia

Kellicottia bostoniensis (Rousselet, 1908) es un rotífero planctónico, nativo de Norte América, pero reportado en Europa, Asia y hasta el momento en Sudamérica en Brasil y Argentina, donde ha sido señalado como especie invasora. En muestreos de zooplancton realizados en la zona fótica de diferentes ecosistemas colombianos (humedales urbanos, embalses y ríos) entre el 2019 y el 2022 se registraron individuos de K. bostoniensis. Este trabajo representa el primer reporte para Colombia y el norte de Sudamérica expandiendo su rango de distribución en el continente. Los especímenes analizados muestran las características morfológicas y morfométricas típicas de la especie K. bostoniensis y una distribución en un amplio rango de condiciones ambientales, como ha sido reportado en otras regiones. Se evidencia su potencial invasor y la posibilidad de que su rango de distribución se expanda hacia otras cuencas y ecosistemas colombianos, así como otros países de Sur América.

Kellicottia bostoniensis (Rousselet, 1908) is a planktonic rotifer, native from North America, but reported in Europe, Asia and South American countries such as Brazil and Argentina, where is registered as invasive species. In zooplankton sampling carried out in the photic zone of different Colombian ecosystems (urban wetlands, reservoirs and rivers) between 2019 and 2022, individuals belonging to this species were recorded. This work is the first report in both Colombia and the North of South America, expanding its distribution range in the continent. The analyzed specimens show the typical morphological and morphometric characteristics of the K. bostoniensis species and a distribution in a wide range of environmental conditions, as it has been reported in other regions. Its invasive potential is evidenced and the possibility that its distribution range expands towards other basins and ecosystems in Colombia and other countries of South America.

Especies invasoras de Ceratium Schrank, 1973 (Dinophyceae: Ceratiaceae) en cuerpos de agua continentales de Perú

La presente comunicación proporciona información de la presencia en Perú de dos especies invasoras del género Ceratium: C. hirundinella (O.F. Müller) Dujardin y C. furcoides (Levander) Langhans. Se brinda información sobre la distribución de ambas especies en cuerpos de agua peruanos, así como datos de sus abundancias.

This works provides information on the presence in Peru of two invasive species of the genus Ceratium: C. hirundinella (O.F. Müller) Dujardin and C. furcoides (Levander) Langhans. Information is provided on the distribution of both species in Peruvian water bodies, as well as data on their abundance.

Importancia de la monitorización de concentraciones plasmáticas de voriconazol y dificultad en ajuste de dosis en un paciente pediátrico / Voriconazole monitorization in pediatric patients, difficulties in dose adjustment

Resumen Presentamos el caso de un escolar de 10 años, con el diagnóstico de una recaída de una leucemia mieloide aguda que cursó con un episodio de una neutropenia febril de alto riesgo, posterior a un ciclo intensivo de quimioterapia, evolucionando con una infección fúngica invasora demostrada por histopatología. Se inició tratamiento con voriconazol intravenoso, evolucionando con concentraciones plasmáticas erráticas que requirieron sucesivos ajustes de dosis, lo que también ocurrió con la administración oral del medicamento. Finalmente, tuvo una respuesta favorable al tratamiento, a pesar de la dificultad de la dosificación para alcanzar niveles terapéuticos. La búsqueda activa y la terapia antifúngica anticipada, así como la monitorización seriada de concentraciones terapéuticas de voriconazol, permitieron un tratamiento antifúngico óptimo y oportuno, mejorando el pronóstico del paciente.

Abstract We present a 10-year-old male patient with a diagnosis of relapsed acute myeloid leukemia (AML), presenting with high-risk febrile neutropenia (HRFN), after a cycle of intensive chemotherapy, evolving with an invasive fungal infection demonstrated by histopathology. Treatment with intravenous voriconazole was started, with erratic plasmatic levels, which require successive dose adjustments which also occurred with oral administration. Finally, he had a favorable response to treatment, despite of the dosing difficulties to reach therapeutic levels. Active search as well as preemptive antifungal therapy, together with plasmatic level monitorization of voriconazole allowed a prompt recovery and improved the patient prognosis.

Prey selectivity of the invasive largemouth bass towards native and non-native prey: an experimental approach

Non-native predators are known to cause ecological impacts through heightened consumption of resources and decimation of native species. One such species is Micropterus salmoides. Often introduced for sport fishing worldwide; it has been listed by International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources as one of the 100 of the world's worst invasive species. Whilst impacts conferred towards native prey are well known, its relationship with other non-native species has received much less attention. Therefore, the aim of this study was to experimentally investigate the feeding preference of M. salmoides towards native prey (Geophagus iporangensis) compared to non-native prey (Oreochromis niloticus and Coptodon rendalli) using comparative consumption and the Manly-Chesson selectivity index. We found a higher consumption by M. salmoides towards the non-native prey and a tendency for this non-native preference to increase when prey availability increased. Our results are in line with the hypothesis that the invasion of the non-native predator can be facilitated by the high abundance and reproductive rate of the non-native prey. This is relevant considering the interaction of multiple invaders in an ecosystem, in particular environments modified by humans. Interspecific relationships are complex and their understanding is necessary for environmental management decision-making.(AU)

Predadores não-nativos são conhecidos por causar impactos ecológicos com o aumento do consumo de recursos e do declínio das espécies nativas. Uma dessas espécies é Micropterus salmoides. Frequentemente introduzida ao redor do mundo para pesca esportiva; essa espécie foi listada pela União Internacional para a Conservação da Natureza como uma das 100 piores espécies invasoras do mundo. Embora os impactos nas presas nativas sejam bem conhecidos, sua relação com outras espécies não-nativas tem recebido muito menos atenção. Portanto, o objetivo deste estudo foi pesquisar experimentalmente a preferência alimentar de M. salmoides por presas nativas (Geophagus iporangensis) em comparação com presas não-nativas (Oreochromis niloticus e Coptodon rendalli) comparando o consumo e o índice de seletividade de Manly-Chesson. Encontramos que M. salmoides tem um maior consumo de presas não-nativas e uma tendência de aumento de preferência pela presa não-nativa com o aumento da disponibilidade de presas. Nossos resultados são consistentes com a hipótese de que a invasão do predador não-nativo pode ser facilitada pela grande abundância e capacidade reprodutiva de presas não-nativas. Isso é relevante considerando a interação de múltiplos invasores em um ecossistema, particularmente em ambientes modificados pelo homem. Relações interespecíficas são complexas e seu entendimento é necessário para a tomada de decisões de gestão ambiental.(AU)

Competitividade de espécies forrageiras do campo nativo com capim-annoni em solo com diferentes níveis de adubação e calagem / Competition between forage species from native grasslands and tough lovegrass in soil under different fertilization and liming regimes / Competitividad de las especies forrajeras del campo nativo con capim annoni en suelos con diferentes niveles de fertilización y encalado

A infestação de capim-annoni (Eragrostis plana Ness) nas áreas de pastejo em campo nativo ameaça a preservação do Bioma Pampa e a atividade pecuária no Rio Grande do Sul (RS). O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a influência de tratamentos de adubação e calagem sobre a competitividade de espécies forrageiras do campo nativo com o capim-annoni, em área infestada pela invasora. Foi realizado um experimento em área de campo nativo infestada com capim-annoni no Centro de Pesquisa do DDPA/SEAPDR em Viamão - RS, sem uso de herbívoros domésticos, para avaliação do efeito dos tratamentos sem interferência do pastejo seletivo. Foram avaliados quatro tratamentos: TO sem adubação e calagem: T1 ­ apenas calagem: T2 - com adubação (nitrogênio, fósforo e potássio) e calagem; T3 - adubação com o dobro da dose de fósforo, mais potássio e calagem. Foram acompanhadas a evolução da composição botânica e o desenvolvimento das espécies do campo nativo e do capim-annoni por dois anos, pela avaliação da cobertura vegetal do solo e da produção de massa seca, como também as modificações da fertilidade do solo. Os resultados de produção de massa seca mostraram que a adubação nitrogenada do tratamento T2 beneficiou o crescimento do campo nativo e desfavoreceu o capim-annoni. Com a adubação nitrogenada do tratamento T2, espécies de gramíneas cespitosas do campo nativo atingiram maior altura e provavelmente competiram com o capim-annoni por meio de sombreamento, resultando na redução do crescimento da invasora.

The invasion of tough lovegrass (Eragrostis plana Ness) in native grassland grazing areas threatens the preservation of the Pampa biome as well as livestock farming in Rio Grande do Sul (RS), Brazil. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the influence of fertilization and liming treatments on the competitiveness of native grassland forage species with tough lovegrass, in an area infested by the invader. An experiment was carried out in a native grassland area infested with tough lovegrass that was not subjected to domestic herbivores at the DDPA/SEAPDR Research Center in Viamão - RS, to evaluate the effects of the treatments without interference from selective grazing. The following four treatments were assessed: TO - no fertilization or liming: T1 - liming only; T2 - fertilization (nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium) and liming; and T3 - fertilization with double the phosphorus dose, plus potassium and liming. The evolution of botanical composition and development of native grassland species and tough lovegrass were monitored for two years, by evaluating soil vegetal coverage and dry mass production, as well as modifications of soil fertility. The dry mass production results showed that nitrogen fertilization from T2 treatment benefited the growth of native grassland species and disfavored tough lovegrass. With nitrogen fertilization from T2 treatment, native grassland tufted grass species grew taller and probably competed with tough lovegrass through shading, resulting in reduced growth of the invader.

La infestación del capim annoni (Eragrostis plana Ness) en áreas de pastoreo en pastizales nativos amenaza la preservación del Bioma Pampa y la actividad ganadera en Rio Grande do Sul (RS), Brasil. El objetivo de este trabajo fue evaluar la influencia de los tratamientos de fertilización y encalado sobre la competitividad de las especies forrajeras del campo nativo con el capim annoni, en un área infestada por el invasor. Se realizó un experimento en un área de campo nativo infestado con capim annoni en el Centro de Investigación del DDPA/SEAPDR en Viamão - RS, sin el uso de herbívoros domésticos, para evaluar el efecto de los tratamientos sin la interferencia del pastoreo selectivo. Se evaluaron cuatro tratamientos: TO sin fertilización y encalado; T1 sólo encalado; T2 con fertilización (nitrógeno, fósforo y potasio) y encalado; T3 - fertilización con doble dosis de fósforo, más potasio y encalado. La evolución de la composición botánica y el desarrollo de las especies del campo nativo y del capim annoni fueron seguidos durante dos años, mediante la evaluación de la cobertura vegetal del suelo y la producción de masa seca, así como las modificaciones en la fertilidad del suelo. Los resultados de la producción de masa seca mostraron que la fertilización nitrogenada del tratamiento T2 benefició el crecimiento del campo nativo y perjudicó al capim annoni. Con la fertilización nitrogenada del tratamiento T2, las especies gramíneas cespitosas del campo nativo alcanzaron una mayor altura y probablemente compitieron con el capim annoni mediante el sombreado, lo que resultó en la reducción del crecimiento de la planta invasora.

The midday sun reveals what the waters hide: Podocnemis unifilis Troschel, 1848 (Testudines, Podocnemididae), another exotic species in the Pantanal of Mato Grosso state / O sol do meio-dia revela o que as águas escondem: Podocnemis unifilis Troschel, 1848 (Testudines, Podocnemididae), outra espécie exótica no Pantanal mato-grossense

Abstract The process of exotic species introduction is recognized as one of the greatest threats to the ecology and economy of the planet, due to changes in interactions in native biological communities. In this sense, reporting bioinvasions is the first step to understanding its introduction process and creating strategies to mitigate possible socio-environmental damages. Here we report the first records of Podocnemis unifilis introduced in the Northern Pantanal, Mato Grosso, Brazil. We obtained the species' first records occasionally during 2014 and 2015. In the following years from 2016 to 2019, we carried out systematic observations through nautical incursions on the Paraguay River, between the Sepotuba River mouth and the Taiamã Ecological Station (TES). We also included third part records, when it was possible to prove the species identification and registration sites. Podocnemis unifilis adults, hatchling and nests were recorded at different points along the Paraguay River. Our results indicate that P. unifilis was introduced close to the urban nucleus of Cáceres about 30 years ago. Currently, it has an established population, recording nests and hatchling for years in a row. A particular one is its occurrence at the TES, an important natural fish nursery and refuge for the wetland fauna. Thus, continuous monitoring is suggested from P.unifilis, since the Pantanal's environment with several different aquatic environments, offers favorable conditions for the species population increase in the Northern Pantanal.

Resumo O processo de introdução de espécies exóticas é reconhecido como uma das maiores ameaças à ecologia e economia do planeta, devido às mudanças nas interações em comunidades biológicas nativas. Nesse sentido, relatar as bioinvasões é o primeiro passo para entender seu processo de implantação e criar estratégias para mitigar possíveis danos socioambientais. Aqui relatamos os primeiros registros de P. unifilis introduzidos no Pantanal Norte, Mato Grosso, Brasil. Obtivemos os primeiros registros das espécies ocasionalmente durante 2014 e 2015. Nos anos seguintes, de 2016 a 2019, realizamos observações sistemáticas por meio de incursões náuticas no rio Paraguai, entre a foz do rio Sepotuba e a Estação Ecológica Taiamã (TES). Incluímos também registros de terceiros, quando foi possível comprovar os locais de identificação e registro das espécies. Adultos de Podcnemis unifilis, filhotes e ninhos foram registrados em diferentes pontos ao longo do rio Paraguai. Nossos resultados indicam que P. unifilis foi introduzido próximo ao núcleo urbano de Cáceres há cerca de 30 anos. Atualmente, ela tem uma população estabelecida, registrando ninhos e filhotes por anos consecutivos. Uma em particular é a sua ocorrência no TES, importante viveiro natural de peixes e refúgio da fauna pantaneira. Assim, sugere-se o monitoramento contínuo de P.unifilis, uma vez que o ambiente do Pantanal com diversos ambientes aquáticos distintos, oferece condições favoráveis para o aumento da população da espécie no Pantanal Norte.

Candidiasis invasora: un enfoque a la infección en el sistema nervioso central

Resumen La candidemia es la micosis invasora más frecuente en los pacientes internados en hospitales de alta complejidad en el mundo. La infección fúngica en el sistema nervioso central constituye una complicación potencialmente mortal que agrava el pronóstico de los pacientes. El presente artículo aborda aspectos relevantes sobre las características clínicas de esta enfermedad, los mecanismos de invasión del hongo, la respuesta inmunitaria local frente a Candida albicans y el impacto de los defectos genéticos en receptores de la inmunidad innata, que aumentan la susceptibilidad a la neurocandidiasis.

Aumento en la positividad del biomarcador galactomanano durante la pandemia de COVID-19 en la Quinta Región: Valparaíso / Increase in the positivity of the galactomannan biomarker during the COVID-19 pandemic in the Fifth Region: Valparaíso

INTRODUCCIÓN: La actual pandemia provocada por SARS-CoV-2 ha provocado una alta carga en la salud pública y privada. Se han descrito casos y series de aspergilosis invasora asociada a pacientes con COVID-19 en ventilación mecánica. OBJETIVO: Describir el aumento en la positividad del biomarcador galactomanano (GM) durante la pandemia de COVID-19 en la Quinta Región: Valparaíso. MATERIALES Y MÉTODO: Estudio descriptivo, retrospectivo. Se revisó la cantidad y los resultados de GM, tanto de lavado bronco-alveolar (LBA) como en suero y los cultivos de LBA enviados al laboratorio de Micología de la Universidad de Valparaíso, desde enero y hasta septiembre del año 2020; luego se compararon con los exámenes recibidos en el mismo período del año 2019. RESULTADOS: Se observó un aumento significativo de los GM realizados en LBA, concentrándose principalmente entre los meses de julio y septiembre. El 29% de las muestras del año 2020 tenía el antecedente de ser de pacientes con COVID-19. Del total de muestras positivas durante el año de la pandemia, 5/12 fueron en pacientes con COVID-19. CONCLUSIONES: Hubo un aumento significativo de los GM realizados en LBA durante la pandemia, concentrándose principalmente entre los meses de julio-septiembre.

BACKGROUND: The current pandemic due to SARS-CoV-2 has caused a high burden on health. Cases and series of invasive aspergillosis associated with COVID-19 patients (CAPA) on mechanical ventilation have been described. AIM: To describe the increase in the positivity of the galactomannan (GM) biomarker during the COVID-19 pandemic in the Fifth Region: Valparaíso. METHOD: Retrospective descriptive study. The GM results in both broncho-alveolar lavage (BAL) and serum and the BAL cultures that were sent to the Mycology Laboratory of the University of Valparaíso from January to September 2020 were reviewed; then they were compared with the examinations of the same period of 2019. RESULTS: There was a significant increase in GMs carried out in LBA during the pandemic, concentrating mainly between the months of July-September. CONCLUSIONS: There was a significant increase in GM carried out in LBA during the pandemic, concentrating mainly between the months of July-September.

Infecciones fúngicas en pacientes con COVID-19 / Fungal infections in patients with COVID-19

En diciembre de 2019 se identificó en Wuhan, China, un nuevo coronavirus denominado SARS-CoV-2, agente causal de la epidemia de neumonía atípica COVID-2019, que el 11 de marzo de 2020 fue declarada pandemia por la OMS.Hasta el 30 de septiembre de 2020, en Argentina fueron confirmados 751.001 casos y más de 16.937 muertes.La frecuencia y el impacto de las coinfecciones que afectan a los pacientes infectados por SARS-Cov-2 se ha estudiado junto con el avance de la pandemia. Entre las debidas a hongos se encuentran las fungemias por Candida sp, la aspergilosis invasora, las micosis sistémicas endémicas y la neumocistosis. Presentamos las distintas coinfecciones micosis-COVID-19 que fueron asistidas en nuestra institución entre abril y septiembre de 2020, y se realiza un análisis de las características de estas infecciones en pacientes con y sin sida. En este período se internaron 2837 pacientes, 2287 tuvieron diagnóstico confirmado de COVID-19. La coinfección de COVID-19 con micosis pulmonares o sistémicas fue menor al 1%.Dieciocho pacientes presentaron infecciones fúngicas pulmonares o sistémicas. Ocho padecieron candidemias, cinco criptococosis meningeas, dos histoplasmosis, dos aspergilosis invasoras agudas probables y una aspergilosis pulmonar crónica. La estadía prolongada en terapia intensiva facilitó las fungemias por Candida sp, los casos de histoplasmosis y criptococosis parecen relacionarse con la enfermedad avanzada por VIH y no con COVID-19. Los enfermos con un componente inflamatorio basal alto con neumonía grave por coronavirus se relacionan más con micosis invasoras que los enfermos VIH positivos con niveles bajos de LTCD4+

On December 2019 a new coronavirus (SARS-CoV2) result in atypical pneumonía epidemic, it was identified in Wuhan China and it was called COVID-19. Then on March 11 was declared pandemic by the WHO.Until September 30, 2020 in Argentina 751,001 cases and more than 16,937 deaths have been confirmed. The frequency and impact of co-infections affecting SARS-Cov2 infected patients has been studied with the advance of the pandemic. Among those due to fungi are Candida sp fungemias, invasive aspergillosis, endemic systemic mycoses, and pneumocystosis.We present the different mycosis-COVID-19 co-infections that were assisted in F. J. Muñiz Hospital between April and September of this year and review the characteristics of these infections in patients with and without AIDS is carried out.In this period, 2,837 patients were admitted in the Muñiz hospital, 2,287 had a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19.Co-infection of COVID-19 with pulmonary or systemic mycoses was less than 1%.Eighteen patients had pulmonary or systemic fungal infections. Eight suffered from candidemia, five meningeal cryptococcosis, two histoplasmosis, two probable acute invasive aspergillosis, and one chronic pulmonary aspergillosis.Prolonged stay in intensive care facilitated fungemia due to Candida sp. Histoplasmosis and cryptococcosis cases seem to be related to advanced HIV disease and not to COVID-19.Patients with a high baseline inflammatory component with severe coronavirus pneumonia are more associated with invasive mycoses than HIV-positive patients with low levels of LTCD4 +

[Invasive candidiasis: A view to central nervous system infection]. / Candidiasis invasora: un enfoque a la infección en el sistema nervioso central.

Candidemia is the most frequent invasive mycosis in hospitalized patients worldwide. Fungal infection in central nervous system is a life-threatening complication which aggravates patients' prognosis. This article summarizes relevant aspects on the clinical characteristics of this pathology, mechanisms of fungus invasion, local immune response to Candida albicans and the impact of genetic defects on innate immune receptors that increase susceptibility to the acquisition of this form of mycosis.

Crianza de Leptotes callanga (Lepidoptera : Lycaeni- dae : Polyommatinae) sobre Genista monspessulana (Fabaceae introducida de origen mediterráneo) en el Sur de Perú / Leptotes callanga (Lepidoptera : Lycaenidae : Polyommatinae) breeding on Genista monspessulana (Fabaceae introdu- ced of Mediterranean origin) in South Perú

Resumen La estación científica de Wayqecha se sitúa en el departamento de Cusco, en el sudeste de Perú, a una altitud de 2900 m (13°10.506'S - 71°35.210'W). En esta estación, encontramos una oruga de Leptotes callanga (Dyar, 1913) (Lepidoptera : Lycaenidae : Polyommatinae), alimentándose de flores de Genista monspessulana (L.) L.A.S. Johnson (Fabaceae), una planta no nativa, de origen mediterráneo. La crianza permitió obtener una hembra adulta de L. callanga. La oruga en el último estadio y la crisálida se describen e ilustran. Se comenta la adaptación de esta especie a una nueva planta.

Abstract The Wayqecha scientific station is located in the department of Cusco, in southeas- tern Peru, at an altitude of 2900 m (13°10.506'S - 71°35.210'W). In this station, we found a caterpillar of Leptotes callanga (Dyar, 1913) (Lepidoptera : Lycaenidae : Polyommatinae), consuming flowers of Genista monspessulana (L.) L.A.S. Johnson (Fabaceae), a non- native plant of Mediterranean origin. The breeding allowed to obtain a female L. callanga. Last instar larvae and pupa are described and illustrated. Leptotes callanga adaptation to this new plant is commented.

Priorización de nuevas vacunas e innovación al servicio de estrategias de vacunación / New vaccines prioritization and immunization-related innovation

La vacunación es el medio más efectivo para controlar la morbilidad y mortalidad relacionadas con enfermedades infecciosas. Para lograr esto, necesitamos vacunas inmunogénicas y seguras que faciliten y mejoren sus condiciones de transporte, almacenamiento y administración. Gracias a los avances en inmunología y bioinformática, es posible impulsar el descubrimiento de nuevas vacunas para enfrentar la tuberculosis, el virus respiratorio sincicial, el Streptococcus agalactiae, la enfermedad meningocócica invasora, entre otros. Así también, nuevas tecnologías, como la producción de vacunas utilizando plantas transgénicas y parches de microagujas, los cuales podrían facilitar la producción, disminuir los costos y efectos adversos. Sin embargo, no solo necesitamos las vacunas, sino que debemos conocer la epidemiología de las enfermedades prevenibles con vacuna para tomar decisiones fundadas, con el objetivo de planificar estrategias sanitarias, medir su impacto y evaluar la seguridad de su utilización, para alcanzar las metas de salud pública y la confianza de la población.

Vaccination is the most effective strategy to avoid morbidity and mortality related to infectious diseases. To achieve this, we need immunogenic and safe vaccines that facilitate and improve its transport, storage and administration conditions. Thanks to current advances in immunology and bioinformatics, it is possible to boost the discovery of new vaccines to deal with tuberculosis, the respiratory syncytial virus, Streptococcus agalactiae, meningococcal invasive disease, among others. In addition to new technologies such as the production of plant-based vaccines, and microneedles patches, which can facilitate its production, reducing costs and adverse effects. However, vaccines is not the only thing that we need, because we must know the epidemiology and burden of disease to take informed decisions to design optimal strategies, measuring their impact and assessing the safety of their use in order to achieve the goals health and population confidence.

Epidemiological aspects of natural poisoning by Prosopis juliflora in ruminants in semiarid areas of the state of Bahia, Brazil, invaded by the plant / Aspectos epidemiológicos da intoxicação natural por Prosopis juliflora em ruminantes em áreas do semiárido baiano invadidas pela planta

Poisoning by Prosopis juliflora (mesquite) leads to neurological signs, cachexia and death, mainly in cattle and goats. Although the uncontrolled spread of mesquite in the Caatinga biome (biological invasion), which alters the epidemiological conditions of intoxication by this plant, has been proved for approximately 20 years, strategies for its control and prophylaxis still remain out of date. These new epidemiological conditions have allowed the uncontrolled consumption of large amounts of in natura mesquite pods by ruminants for long periods in invaded pastures, thus resulting in increased history of poisoning. This study aimed to describe the new epidemiological aspects of P. juliflora poisoning in cattle and goats, 78 years after the introduction of this plant in the country, with emphasis on its degree of invasion, and to update the control and prophylaxis measures of this intoxication and the mapping of areas of outbreak occurrence in the semiarid region of the state of Bahia, Brazil. Seven outbreaks of natural mesquite poisoning, two in goats (OB 1 and OB 2) and five in cattle (OB 3, OB 4, OB 5, OB 6, and OB 7), were studied in loco in the municipalities of Juazeiro, Iaçu, Tucano, Santa Teresinha, Barra do Mendes, Barra and Tabocas do Brejo Velho. In the studied outbreaks, clinical-epidemiological (OB 1 to OB 7) and histopathological (OB 1, OB 2, OB 3, and OB 5) findings were compatible with mesquite poisoning, and this was the first anatomopathological proof of poisoning by this plant in this state. In addition, in the state of Bahia, disease occurs in an area approximately three times larger than previously known. On the farms investigated, mesquite introduction occurred between 1980 and 2005, through the single planting of an average of 33 seedlings. Since then, propagation of this plant has occurred progressively, with gradual invasion of native pastures, which enabled the evaluation of plant spread (biological invasion) on these farms 15 (OB 2), 25 (OB 7), 30 (OB 5 and OB 6), 35 (OB 3) and 40 (OB 1 and OB 4) years after its introduction. Historical information on the introduction and spread of mesquite in the state of Bahia had never been analyzed. In 2020, a degree of mesquite invasion an average 59.57% was verified in the pastures of the seven farms where the outbreaks occurred. The great biological invasion capacity of this plant drew attention, especially in OB 5. The high degree of mesquite invasion observed (new epidemiological conditions) justifies the increased number of cases of poisoning observed in this study. Processing of P. juliflora pods (grinding) was not carried out on any farm (OB 1 to OB 7), and ruminants uncontrollably consumed large amounts of pods in natura for long periods in invaded pastures, which allowed massive dispersal of seeds through feces over decades. The main factors responsible for the gradual invasion of pastures by mesquite over time were absence of crop management plans (silvicultural treatments) and lack of knowledge by producers on disease etiology. Given the new epidemiological conditions, restriction of animal access to in natura pods in pastures and supply of mesquite bran are crucial for the control and prophylaxis of this poisoning, as consumption of in natura pods had a strong correlation with the high degree of invasion in the pastures where the seven outbreaks occurred. Additionally, although the commercialization of pods and exploitation of wood of mesquite trees can provide livestock farmers with extra income - being the correct management for areas invaded by this plant, such practice is either not yet known or not carried out technically or satisfactorily by farmers. In addition to being a threat to the Caatinga's biodiversity, the increasing invasion of semiarid areas by mesquite 78 years after its introduction in the Northeast region of Brazil, is a risk for herds, since the occurrence of poisoning outbreaks may become more frequent. Therefore, it is highly advisable that effective measures be adopted to control P. juliflora propagation.(AU)

A intoxicação por Prosopis juliflora (algaroba) cursa com sinais neurológicos, caquexia e morte, principalmente em bovinos e caprinos. Embora a disseminação descontrolada da algaroba na Caatinga (invasão biológica) tenha sido comprovada há cerca de 20 anos, o que altera as condições epidemiológicas dessa intoxicação, as estratégias de controle e profilaxia permanecem desatualizadas. Essas novas condições epidemiológicas permitem o consumo descontrolado de grande quantidade de vagens in natura de algaroba, por longos períodos, nas pastagens invadidas, o que tem resultado em aumento dos históricos de intoxicação. Objetivou-se com esse estudo descrever os novos aspectos epidemiológicos da intoxicação por P. juliflora em bovinos e caprinos, 78 anos após a introdução da planta no país, com ênfase no grau de invasão da planta, bem como atualizar as medidas de controle e profilaxia dessa intoxicação e das áreas de ocorrência dos surtos no semiárido baiano. Foram estudados in loco sete surtos (S1 a S7) de intoxicação natural por algaroba, sendo dois em caprinos (S1 e S2) e cinco em bovinos (S3, S4, S5, S6 e S7) no semiárido baiano (Juazeiro, Iaçu, Tucano, Santa Teresinha, Barra do Mendes, Barra e Tabocas do Brejo Velho). Nos surtos estudados, os achados clínico-epidemiológicos (S1 a S7) e histopatológicos (S1, S2, S3 e S5) foram compatíveis com intoxicação por algaroba, sendo essa intoxicação comprovada, pela primeira vez, com exames anatomopatológicos na Bahia. Ademais, na Bahia a doença ocorre em uma área cerca de três vezes maior do que a, até então, conhecida. Nas fazendas estudadas a introdução da algaroba ocorreu entre 1980 e 2005, através do plantio único de, em média, 33 mudas. Desde então, a disseminação da planta ocorreu de forma progressiva, invadindo gradativamente as pastagens nativas, o que permitiu avaliar a disseminação da planta (invasão biológica) nessas fazendas cerca de 15 (S2), 25 (S7), 30 (S5 e S6), 35 (S3) e 40 (S1 e S4) anos, após sua introdução. Informações históricas acerca da introdução da algaroba e sua disseminação na Bahia nunca haviam sido estudadas. Em 2020, verificou-se que nas pastagens das sete fazendas onde os surtos ocorreram, o grau de invasão por algaroba alcançou, em média, 59,57%. Chamou a atenção a grande capacidade de invasão biológica da planta, sobretudo, no S5. O alto grau de invasão da algaroba observado (novas condições epidemiológicas) justificou o aumento dos casos de intoxicação verificados nesse estudo. O beneficiamento das vagens (moagem) não era realizado em nenhuma fazenda (S1 a S7) e os ruminantes consumiam de forma descontrolada (livre) grande quantidade de vagens in natura, por longos períodos, nas pastagens invadidas, o que possibilitou a dispersão massiva das sementes da planta pelas fezes ao longo das décadas. O que aliado à inexistência de um plano de manejo do cultivo (tratamentos silviculturais) e ao desconhecimento da etiologia da doença pelos produtores foram os principais fatores responsáveis pela invasão gradativa da planta nas pastagens, ao longo dos anos, o que justifica o aumento dos casos de intoxicação observados na Bahia. Frente às novas condições epidemiológicas, a restrição do acesso dos animais as vagens in natura nas pastagens e o fornecimento do farelo de algaroba são cruciais para o controle e profilaxia dessa intoxicação, pois o consumo das vagens in natura teve forte correlação com o alto grau de invasão das pastagens onde os sete surtos ocorreram. Adicionalmente, embora a comercialização das vagens e a exploração da madeira da algaroba possam proporcionar renda extra aos pecuaristas e serem boas formas de manejo de áreas invadidas por algaroba, tais práticas ainda não são conhecidas ou não são realizadas de forma técnica ou a contento. A crescente invasão da algaroba no semiárido, 78 anos após a sua introdução no Nordeste, além de ser uma ameaça à biodiversidade da Caatinga é um risco para os rebanhos, visto que, a ocorrência de surtos de intoxicação podem se tornar mais frequentes. Desta maneira alerta-se para adoção de medidas efetivas de controle da propagação descontrolada da algaroba.(AU)