Caracterización epidemio-molecular de la infección por Clostridioides difficile en pacientes hospitalizados con cuadro diarreico en instituciones de salud. 2019

La infección por Clostridioides difficile es una de las principales causas de diarrea nosocomial en hospitales del mundo, asociada a antibióticos de amplio espectro. Estudio descriptivo, retrospectivo, de corte transverso, de tipo censal. Se estudiaron 281 muestras de pacientes hospitalizados con la infección, se analizaron características socio-demográficas, clínicas y se caracterizó molecularmente al patógeno. Como resultado, se obtuvieron pacientes con la infección con una mediana de edad de 64 años siendo el 61,5 % del sexo masculino. El promedio de presentación del cuadro diarreico fue de 5 días, con tratamiento antimicrobiano de 8 días e internación de 15 días. El 94% tuvo tratamiento antimicrobiano previo, y el 6% estuvo expuesto a algún factor de riesgo. Los antimicrobianos más utilizados solos o en combinación fueron betalactámicos, fluoroquinolonas, vancomicina y carbapenémicos. Las áreas de internación con mayor frecuencia de presentación de la infección fueron las unidades de Clínica Médica, Traumatología, Geriatría y Unidad de Terapia Intensiva. La prevalencia de C. difficile toxigénico fue de 14%, y de esta frecuencia el 100% presentó toxinas TcdA y TcdB, con ausencia de toxinas binarias y deleción del gen tcdC. Se constató la presencia grupos clonales en la misma unidad de internación y misma institución de salud. El 100% de las cepas resultaron susceptibles a los antibióticos de elección para la infección. La prevalencia de la infección y presencia de perfiles clonales detectadas revelan la necesidad de un mejoramiento en el sistema de control de infecciones, así como del fortalecimiento y vigilancia de la resistencia antimicrobiana.

Clostridioides difficile infection is one of the main causes of nosocomial diarrhea in hospitals worldwide, associated with broad-spectrum antibiotics. Descriptive, retrospective, cross-sectional, census-type study. Two hundred eighty-one samples from patients hospitalized with the infection were studied, sociodemographic and clinical characteristics were analyzed and the pathogen was characterized molecularly. As a result, patients with the infection had a median age of 64 years and 61.5% male. The average presentation of diarrhea was 5 days, antimicrobial treatment 8 days and hospitalization 15 days. Ninety four percent had previous antimicrobial treatment, and 6% were exposed to some risk factor. The most commonly used antimicrobials alone or in combination were beta-lactams, fluoroquinolones, vancomycin, and carbapenems. The hospitalization areas with the highest frequency of presentation of the infection were the Clinical Medicine, Traumatology, Geriatrics and Intensive Care Unit units. The prevalence of toxigenic C. difficile was 14%, and of this frequency, 100% presented TcdA and TcdB toxins, with the absence of binary toxins and deletion of the tcdC gene. The presence of clonal groups was verified in the same hospitalization unit and the same health institution. All the strains were susceptible to the antibiotics of choice for the infection. The prevalence of infection and the presence of clonal profiles detected reveal the need for improvement of the infection control system, as well as of the strengthening and surveillance of antimicrobial resistance.

Antifungal potential of biosurfactants produced by strains of Bacillus spp. (Bacillales: Bacillaceae) selected by molecular screening / Potencial antifúngico de biosulfactantes producidos por cepas de Bacillus spp. (Bacillales: Bacillaceae) seleccionadas por tamizaje molecular

Introduction: Bacillus species are used as biological controllers for phytopathogenic fungi, and the mechanisms to produce controllers include biosynthesis of lipopeptide biosurfactants with antifungal activity. Objective: To evaluate the antifungal potential of the biosurfactants produced by Bacillus strains, selected by molecular screening, on Fusarium oxysporum. Methods: We selected four molecular markers, related to the biosynthesis of surfactin, fengicin, and lichenysin (srfA, spf, fenB, LichAA) in nine Bacillus strains. We used two mineral media with several culture conditions, for biosurfactant production, and a well diffusion test for antifungal potential. Results: Only the biosurfactant produced by UFAB25 inhibits the mycelial growth of F. oxysporum (44 % ± 13): this biosurfactant was positive for srfA, spf, and fenB genes involved in the synthesis of surfactin and fengicine. Antifungal activity depends on culture conditions and the strain. Conclusions: Genetic markers are useful to detect strains with antifungal potential, facilitating the selection of bio-controllers. The biosurfactant profile is influenced by the strain and by culture conditions.

Introducción: Especies de Bacillus han sido empleadas como controladores biológicos contra hongos fitopatógenos. Entre los mecanismos utilizados se destaca la biosíntesis de biosurfactantes lipopeptídicos con actividad antifúngica. Objetivo: Evaluar el potencial antifúngico de los biosurfactantes producidos por cepas Bacillus nativas, previamente seleccionadas mediante tamizaje molecular, sobre Fusarium oxysporum. Métodos: Se utilizaron cuatro marcadores moleculares, relacionados con la biosíntesis de surfactina, fengicina y liquenisina (srfA, spf, fenB, LichAA) sobre nueve cepas de Bacillus. Se utilizaron dos medios minerales con diferentes condiciones de cultivo para la producción del biosurfactante. Se evaluó el potencial antifúngico de los biosurfactantes mediante la prueba de difusión en pozos. Resultados: Se determinó que solo el biosurfactante producido por UFAB25 actúa como inhibidor del crecimiento micelial de Fusarium oxysporum (43.6 % ± 13), esta cepa es positiva para los genes srfA, spf y fenB, involucrados en la síntesis de surfactina y fengicina. La actividad antifúngica depende de las condiciones de cultivo y la cepa. Conclusiones: Los marcadores genéticos ayudan a detectar cepas con potencial antifúngico, facilitando la selección de biocontroladores. El perfil del biosurfactante está influenciado no solo por la cepa, sino también por las condiciones del cultivo.

Creación del primer biorrepositorio nacional de bacterias multirresistentes disponible para el estudio de la resistencia bacteriana en Chile / Creation of the first national biorepository of multi-resistant bacteria available for the study of bacterial resistance in Chile

La disponibilidad de cepas bacteriana para el estudio de la resistencia bacteriana es clave para los avances en la investigación básica y clínica respecto del tema. Existen pocos biorrepositorios o bancos de bacterias con mecanismos de resistencia conocidos, aisladas de infecciones clínicamente significativas. Una revisión de la literatura revela que sólo en los Estados Unidos de América existe un biobanco de aislados resistentes disponibles para estudios. En esta publicación se cuenta cómo se creó el primer biorrepositorio de bacterias resistentes en Chile asociados a la Red de Laboratorios MICROB-R, con la participación de 11 centros distribuidos a lo largo del país, que a la fecha cuenta con más de 3.500 aislados bacterianos estudiados fenotípica y genotípicamente, disponibles para la comunidad científica chilena.

The availability of bacterial strains for the study of bacterial resistance is key to advances in basic and clinical research. There are few biobanks of bacteria with known resistance mechanisms, isolated from clinically significant infections. A review of the literature reveals that only in the United States of America is there a biobank of resistant isolates. This publication shows the creation of the first biorepository of resistant bacteria Chile associated with the MICROB-R Laboratory Network, with the participation of 11 centers distributed throughout the country, which to date has more than 3,500 bacterial isolates studied phenotypically and genotypically, available to the Chilean scientific community.

[The role of ferments in food sustainability]. / El rol de los fermentos en la sostenibilidad alimentaria.

Introduction: Food fermentation is one of the oldest conservation techniques and has evolved over the centuries. This study contributes to the understanding of the impact of fermentation and consequently of fermented products in the evolution of humanity and its influence on sustainability and food use. The production of fermented dairy products is the second industry after alcoholic beverages; thus, yogurt is one of the main fermented products consumed worldwide. Considering fermentation as a technology, this brings us different benefits such as sustainability, since in Spain each person wastes 77 kilos of food per year in their homes and we know that 9% of food waste in our country corresponds to dairy products. For this reason, we have worked with different ferments to select those that allow us to extend the useful life of the product, making it more flexible in its distribution and conservation. Also considering food safety due to the change in pH and the production of certain substances that will protect against pathogens and undesirable bacteria, guaranteeing the highest quality standards.

Introducción: La fermentación de los alimentos constituye una de las técnicas de conservación más antiguas, que ha ido evolucionando a lo largo de los siglos. Este estudio contribuye a la comprensión del impacto de la fermentación y, en consecuencia, de los productos fermentados en la evolución de la humanidad y su influencia en la sostenibilidad y en el aprovechamiento alimentario. La elaboración de productos lácteos fermentados es la segunda industria después de la de bebidas alcohólicas, así pues, el yogur es uno de los principales productos fermentados consumidos en todo el mundo. Considerando la fermentación como una tecnología, esta nos aporta distintos beneficios como la sostenibilidad, ya que en España cada persona desperdicia 77 kilos de alimentos al año en sus hogares y sabemos que el 9 % del desperdicio alimentario en nuestro país corresponde a los lácteos. Por esta razón, se ha trabajado con diferentes fermentos para seleccionar aquellos que permitan alargar la vida útil del producto y hacerlo más flexible en su distribución y conservación, teniendo en cuenta también la seguridad alimentaria debido al cambio de pH y a la producción de determinadas sustancias que protegen frente a patógenos y bacterias indeseables, garantizando los máximos estándares de calidad.

Fist report on fumagillin production by Aspergillus fumigatus sensu stricto gliotoxigenic strains recovered from raw cow milk and clinical samples in Argentina.

In Argentina there are no reports on Aspergillus fumigatus fumagillin-producing strains. In this study we describe the isolation and mycotoxin production capacity of ten A. fumigatus strains isolated from farm and clinical samples. Farm strains were isolated from milk samples taken from dairy cows in Córdoba province, some of which were associated with subclinical mastitis. A culture medium was defined to optimize fumagillin production and a detection method was developed by HPLC chromatography. It is known that in addition to the host immune status, strain virulence is a fundamental characteristic that will determine its pathogenicity and, in this sense, fumagillin is considered to be among the virulence factors. In the present work, all the strains tested for the production of fumagillin were able to synthesize it, highlighting that the strain A. fumigatus RC2243, from a milk sample from a cow with clinical mastitis, was the most productive. The existence of fumagillin-producing strains represents a potential risk of mycotoxins being transferred to raw milk, constituting a public health risk.

Organoides: fundamentos, presente y futuro / Organoids: fundamentals, present and future

RESUMEN Los organoides son estructuras miniaturizadas, generadas principalmente a partir de células madre pluripotentes inducidas, que se cultivan en el laboratorio conservando sus características innatas o adquiridas. Tienen el potencial de reproducir procesos de desarrollo biológico, modelar procesos patológicos que permitirán el descubrimiento de nuevos fármacos y propicien la medicina regenerativa. Sin embargo, estas experiencias requieren perfeccionamiento constante porque pueden haberse realizado variaciones en la constitución de estos órganos. Por ello, el presente artículo tiene como objetivo revisar la información actualizada sobre organoides y sus procesos experimentales básicos y recientes, empezando por la gastrulación, para tratar de imitar, en lo posible, la formación de las tres capas: ectodermo, mesodermo y endodermo, incluyendo los factores que intervienen en la inducción, diferenciación y maduración en la generación de estos organoides. Asimismo, el diseño y preparación de medios de cultivo altamente especializados que permitan obtener el órgano seleccionado con la mayor precisión y seguridad. Se realizó una búsqueda de artículos originales y de revisión publicados en PubMed, Nature y Science. Los artículos se seleccionaron por sus resúmenes y por su texto completo. Las conclusiones de este articulo destacan las ventajas futuras en el uso y aplicaciones de los organoides.

ABSTRACT Organoids are tiny structures, mainly generated from induced pluripotent stem cells, which are cultured in the laboratory while retaining their innate or acquired characteristics. They have the potential to reproduce biological development processes, model pathological processes that will enable the discovery of new drugs and promote regenerative medicine. However, these processes require constant improvement because variations may have occurred in the constitution of the organs. Therefore, this article aims to review updated information on organoids and their basic and recent experimental processes, starting with gastrulation, in an attempt to mimic, as much as possible, the formation of the three layers: ectoderm, mesoderm and endoderm; as well as the information regarding the factors involved in the induction, differentiation and maturation during the generation of organoids. Likewise, the design and preparation of highly specialized culture media that allow obtaining the selected organ with the highest precision and safety. We searched for original and review articles published in PubMed, Nature and Science. Articles were selected for their abstracts and full text. The conclusions of this article highlight the future advantages in the use and applications of organoids.

The Impact of COVID-19 vaccine coverage on deaths outcome in Africa, subregional differences and the need for a renewed multi-level effort / El impacto de la cobertura de la vacuna COVID-19 en el resultado de muertes en África, las diferencias subregionales y la necesidad de un esfuerzo renovado de varios niveles

Introduction: SARS-CoV-2 continues to raise health and socio-economical concerns globally. The recent discovery of the B.1.1.529 (Omicron) variant with its critical mutations has heightened the debate about the need for a better global vaccination rollout to prevent the emergence of new SARS-CoV-2 strains. Optimizing vaccine rollout in Africa is crucial for the management of the pandemic and preventing the rise of new strains. To better direct efforts and interventions it is important to know what parts of the continent necessitate more attention. Material and Methods: 30 African countries were grouped in five geographical subregions, six countries for each subregion. Data on confirmed cases, doses administered, fully vaccinated, and deaths were extracted from the Johns Hopkins Coronavirus Resource Center database. The ANOVA test evaluated differences in means for these variables classified by subregions. The correlation test and the linear regression examined the relationship between these independent variables and total deaths. Results: There was a significant regional difference in confirmed cases (P<0.0001), and in fully vaccinated (P=0.01) across the five subregions. The overall model showed that there is a significant regional difference in the three variables' effect on total deaths (P<0.0001). The linear regression indicated an association between the total number of deaths in relation to the confirmed cases, doses administered, and fully vaccinated (P<0.0001). Discussion: This study indicates that a relation exists between total deaths and the variables confirmed cases, doses administered, and fully vaccinated. More importantly, African countries grouped in geographical subregions perform differently in terms of vaccine rollout, and that offers insights for better and oriented interventions (AU)

Introducción: El SARS-CoV-2 sigue generando preocupaciones sanitarias y socioeconómicas a nivel mundial. El reciente descubrimiento de la variante B.1.1.529 (Omicron), con sus mutaciones críticas, ha aumentado el debate sobre la necesidad de un mejor despliegue mundial de vacunación para prevenir la aparición de nuevas cepas de SARS-CoV-2. La optimización del despliegue de vacunas en África es crucial para la gestión de la pandemia y la prevención del surgimiento de nuevas cepas. Para dirigir mejor los esfuerzos y las intervenciones, es importante saber qué partes del continente necesitan más atención. Material y Métodos: 30 países africanos fueron agrupados en cinco subregiones geográficas, seis países para cada subregión. Los datos sobre casos confirmados, dosis administradas, vacunación completa y muertes se extrajeron de la base de datos del Centro de Recursos de Coronavirus de Johns Hopkins. La prueba ANOVA evaluó diferencias de medias para estas variables clasificadas por subregiones. La prueba de correlación y la regresión lineal examinaron la relación entre estas variables independientes y el total de muertes. Resultados: Hubo una diferencia regional significativa en casos confirmados (P<0,0001) y en vacunados completos (P=0,01) en las cinco subregiones. El modelo general mostró que existe una diferencia regional significativa en el efecto de las tres variables sobre el total de muertes (P<0,0001). La regresión lineal indicó una asociación entre el número total de muertes con relación a los casos confirmados, las dosis administradas y los vacunados completos (P<0,0001). Discusión: Este estudio indica que existe una relación entre el total de muertes y las variables casos confirmados, dosis administradas y vacunados completos. Más importante aún, los países africanos agrupados en subregiones geográficas se desempeñan de manera diferente en términos de implementación de vacunas, y eso ofrece información para intervenciones mejores y más orientadas (AU)

El rol de los fermentos en la sostenibilidad alimentaria / The role of ferments in food sustainability

La fermentación de los alimentos constituye una de las técnicas de conservación más antiguas, que ha ido evolucionando a lo largo de los siglos. Este estudio contribuye a la comprensión del impacto de la fermentación y, en consecuencia, de los productos fermentados en la evolución de la humanidad y su influencia en la sostenibilidad y en el aprovechamiento alimentario.La elaboración de productos lácteos fermentados es la segunda industria después de la de bebidas alcohólicas, así pues, el yogur es uno de los principales productos fermentados consumidos en todo el mundo. Considerando la fermentación como una tecnología, esta nos aporta distintos beneficios como la sostenibilidad, ya que en España cada persona desperdicia 77 kilos de alimentos al año en sus hogares y sabemos que el 9 % del desperdicio alimentario en nuestro país corresponde a los lácteos. Por esta razón, se ha trabajado con diferentes fermentos para seleccionar aquellos que permitan alargar la vida útil del producto y hacerlo más flexible en su distribución y conservación, teniendo en cuenta también la seguridad alimentaria debido al cambio de pH y a la producción de determinadas sustancias que protegen frente a patógenos y bacterias indeseables, garantizando los máximos estándares de calidad. (AU)

Food fermentation is one of the oldest conservation techniques and has evolved over the centuries. This study contributes to the understanding of the impact of fermentation and consequently of fermented products in the evolution of humanity and its influence on sustainability and food use.The production of fermented dairy products is the second industry after alcoholic beverages; thus, yogurt is one of the main fermented products consumed worldwide. Considering fermentation as a technology, this brings us different benefits such as sustainability, since in Spain each person wastes 77 kilos of food per year in their homes and we know that 9% of food waste in our country corresponds to dairy products. For this reason, we have worked with different ferments to select those that allow us to extend the useful life of the product, making it more flexible in its distribution and conservation. Also considering food safety due to the change in pH and the production of certain substances that will protect against pathogens and undesirable bacteria, guaranteeing the highest quality standards. (AU)

Phenotypic and molecular characterization of erythromycin resistance in Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli strains isolated from swine and broiler chickens / Caracterização fenotípica e molecular da resistência à eritromicina em cepas de Campylobacter jejuni e Campylobacter coli isoladas de suínos e frangos de corte

Campylobacter spp. is a bacterial agent that causes gastroenteritis in humans and may trigger Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) and is also considered one of the main foodborne diseases in developed countries. Poultry and pigs are considered reservoirs of these microorganisms, as well as raw or undercooked by-products are often incriminated as a source of human infection. Treatment in human cases is with macrolide, such erythromycin, that inhibits the protein synthesis of the microorganism. This study aimed to isolate Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli from intestinal content samples of broiler chickens (n=20) and swine (n=30) to characterize the erythromycin resistance profile of the strains and to detect molecular mechanisms involved in this resistance. The minimum inhibitory concentration was determined by agar dilution. The Mismatch Amplification Mutation Assay-Polymerase Chain Reaction (MAMA-PCR) was performed to detect mutations at positions 2074 and 2075 of 23S rRNA region, in addition to PCR test to detect the erm(B) gene. From the intestinal content of broiler chickens, 18 strains of C. jejuni and two strains of C. coli were isolated, whereas, from swine samples, no C. jejuni strain and 14 strains of C. coli were isolated. All C. coli strains were resistant, and three C. jejuni strains from broilers chickens were characterized with intermediate resistance to erythromycin. The MIC of the strains ranged from ≤0.5mg/μL to ≥128mg/μL. All resistant strains had the A2075G mutation, and one strain with intermediate resistance had the A2075G mutation. However, the A2074C mutation and the erm(B) gene were not detected. High resistance levels were detected in C. coli strains isolated from swine. The MAMA-PCR is a practical tool for detecting the erythromycin resistance in Campylobacter strains.(AU)

Campylobacter spp. é um agente bacteriano causador de gastroenterite em humanos e associado à síndrome de Guillain-Barré, sendo a campilobacteriose considerada uma das principais enfermidades de origem alimentar. Aves e suínos são importantes reservatórios desses microrganismos e seus produtos derivados crus ou mal cozidos são muitas vezes incriminados como fonte de infecção humana. A primeira escolha para o tratamento em casos humanos são os antimicrobianos da classe dos macrolídeos como à eritromicina. Dentro desse contexto, o objetivo deste estudo foi isolar Campylobacter jejuni e C. coli a partir de 20 amostras de conteúdo intestinal de frangos de corte e de 30 de suínos ao abate e investigar a resistência à eritromicina das estirpes obtidas e os possíveis mecanismos moleculares envolvidos nesta resistência. A concentração inibitória mínima foi determinada pela diluição em ágar e a técnica MAMA-PCR foi utilizada para detecção de mutações nas posições 2074 e 2075 da região 23s rRNA, foi pesquisado também a presença do gene erm(B) pela PCR. A partir do conteúdo intestinal de frangos de corte foram isoladas 18 estirpes de C. jejuni e duas de C. coli, enquanto de suínos foram obtidas 14 estirpes de C. coli e nenhuma estirpe de C. jejuni. Todas as estirpes de C. coli de suínos foram identificadas como resistentes e três estirpes de C. jejuni de frangos foram caracterizadas com resistência intermediária. A CIM das estirpes variou de ≤0,5mg/μL a ≥128mg/μL. Todas as estirpes resistentes tinham a mutação A2075G e uma cepa com resistência intermediária também apresentou a mutação A2075G. Não foi detectada a mutação A2074C ou a presença do gene erm(B) em nenhuma das estirpes obtidas. Os resultados revelam um alto nível de resistência em estirpes de C. coli isoladas de suínos frente a eritromicina. A técnica MAMA PCR utilizada se constitui em uma ferramenta prática para detecção da resistência à eritromicina em estirpes de C. jejuni e C. coli.(AU)

Pathogenic potential of Brucella ovis field isolates with different genotypic profile and protection provided by the vaccine strain B. ovis ΔabcBA against B. ovis field isolates in mice / Vacina viva atenuada Brucella ovis Δ abcBA encapsulada protege camundongos frente a desafios de B. ovis isoladas de campo

Brucella ovis causes economic and reproductive losses in sheep herds. The goal of this study was to characterize infection with B. ovis field isolates in a murine model, and to evaluate protection induced by the candidate vaccine strain B. ovis ΔabcBA in mice challenged with these field isolates. B. ovis field strains were able to colonize and cause lesions in the liver and spleen of infected mice. After an initial screening, two strains were selected for further characterization (B. ovis 94 AV and B. ovis 266 L). Both strains had in vitro growth kinetics that was similar to that of the reference strain B. ovis ATCC 25840. Vaccination with B. ovis ΔabcBA encapsulated with 1% alginate was protective against the challenge with field strains, with the following protection indexes: 0.751, 1.736, and 2.746, for mice challenged with B. ovis ATCC25840, B. ovis 94 AV, and B. ovis 266 L, respectively. In conclusion, these results demonstrated that B. ovis field strains were capable of infecting and inducing lesions in experimentally infected mice. The attenuated vaccine strain B. ovis ΔabcBA induced protection in mice challenged with different B. ovis field isolates, resulting in higher protection indexes against more pathogenic strains.(AU)

Brucella ovis é responsável por perdas econômicas e reprodutivas em rebanhos ovinos. O objetivo deste trabalho foi caracterizar a infecção com as cepas isoladas de campo de B. ovis em modelo murino e avaliar a eficiência vacinal da mutante B. ovis ΔabcAB para proteção contra desafio com as cepas isoladas de campo. Foram utilizadas sete cepas isoladas de campo foram capazes de colonizar e provocar lesões no fígado e no baço de camundongos após sete dias pós-infecção. Após triagem, duas cepas foram selecionadas para a melhor caracterização (B. ovis 94 AV and B. ovis 266L). Ambas apresentaram crescimento em placa de cultivo semelhante ao da cepa de referência B. ovis ATCC 25840. A vacinação com a cepa de Brucella ovis ΔabcBA encapsulada com alginato a 1% foi capaz de proteger camundongos desafiados com as cepas isoladas de campo, com os seguintes índices de proteção: 0,751, 1,736 e 2,746, para camundongos desafiados com B. ovis ATCC 25840, B. ovis 94 AV e B. ovis 266 L, respectivamente. Estes resultados demonstraram que as cepas isoladas de campo de B. ovis são capazes de infectar e induzir lesão em camundongos experimentalmente infectados. O uso da cepa mutante atenuada B. ovis ΔabcBA para vacinação de fêmeas C57BL/6 desafiados com diferentes cepas de B. ovis induziu proteção nos camundongos desafiados com diferentes cepas de B. ovis. Deste modo, mostrando-se eficiente na proteção das cepas de campo de B. ovis.(AU)

Identificación de Bacillus toyonensis en hecesde ganado cebú en el Departamento de Sucre, Colombia / Identification of Bacillus toyonensis in faeces of zebu cattle in the Sucre Department, Colombia

RESUMEN Se evaluaron las características probióticas de cepas nativas aisladas de ganado cebú y se realizó identificación molecular de una de estas cepas, para considerar su posterior aplicación como aditivos microbianos en la alimentación bovina. Se usaron muestras de estiércol de terneros de levante, se aislaron bacterias y levaduras, determinándose la capacidad probiótica de estas cepas mediante pruebas como; resistencia a sales biliares (0.05, 0.1, 0.1 5 y 0.3 %), resistencia a pH ácido (pH 3, 4, 5.6, 7), tolerancia a NaCl (2, 4, 6, 8,10 %), actividad antagónica (Salmonella spp., y Escherichia coli), producción de gas a partir de la glucosa, y crecimiento a diferentes temperaturas (37 y 40 °C). La identificación preliminar de las cepas se realizó mediante: tinción de Gram, tinción de endosporas (método de Wirtz), prueba de la catalasa, prueba de oxidasa. Se seleccionó una de las cepas que superó las pruebas pro-bióticas para su identificación mediante métodos moleculares y se realizó el análisis filogenético de la misma utilizando la base de datos NCBI Reference Sequence (RefSeq). Los ensayos se organizaron en un diseño completamente al azar, los resultados obtenidos por triplicado se sistematizaron en el software Statgraphics Centurion XVI y el efecto de los diferentes tratamientos se analizó estadísticamente mediante análisis de varianza. Se aislaron 10 cepas nativas, identificándose molecularmente a Bacillus toyonensis. Esta investigación representa el primer reporte molecular de B. toyonensis en estiércol de terneros de levante cebú en el Departamento de Sucre, el cual ha sido ampliamente utilizado como probiótico en la nutrición animal.

ABSTRACT Probiotic characteristics of isolated native strains from zebu cattle were evaluated and molecular identification of one of these strains was performed to consider their subsequent application as microbial additives for bovine feeding. Manure samples were collected from growing zebu calves. Bacteria and yeasts were isolated and the probiotic capacity of these strains was determined by means of tests such as; resistance to bile salts (0.05, 0.1, 0.15 and 0.3 %), resistance to acid pH (pH 3, 4, 5.6, 7) tolerance to NaCl (2, 4, 6, 8, 10 %), antagonistic activity (Salmonella sp. and Escherichia coli), gas production from glucose, and growth at different temperatures (37 and 40 °C). Preliminary identification of the strains was performed by techniques such as: Gram staining, endospore staining (Wirtz method), catalase and oxidase test. One of the strains that exceeded the probiotic probes was selected for its identification employing molecular methods and the phylogenetic analysis was performed using the NCBI Reference Sequence (RefSeq) database. The trials were organized in a Completely Randomized Design, whose results obtained in triplicate were systematized in the Statgraphics Centurion XVI software and the effect of the different treatments was analyzed statistically through an analysis of variance. 10 native strains were isolated, identifying Bacillus toyonensi molecularly. This research represents the first molecular report of B. toyonensis in manure from growing zebu calves in the Sucre Department, which has been widely used as a probiotic in animal nutrition.

Detection of efflux pump CmeABC in enrofloxacin resistant Campylobacter spp. strains isolated from broiler chickens (Gallus gallus domesticus) in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil / Detecção da bomba de efluxo CmeABC em cepas de Campylobacter spp. resistentes à enrofloxacina isoladas de frangos de corte (Gallus gallus domesticus) no Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil

Fowls are the main reservoirs of the highly important food-originating pathogen called Campylobacter spp. and broilers' meat and byproducts are the main vehicles of this microorganism. Increasing of Campylobacter spp. resistant strains to fluorquinolones, an antimicrobial class often employed in poultry farming and in human medicine has become a great concern to poultry breeders. In fact, several studies evaluated increasing bacterial resistance against these antimicrobial agents. The role of CmeABC efflux system has been underscored among the resistance mechanisms in Campylobacter spp. to fluorquinolones. This study investigated the occurrence of CmeABC efflux pump in 81 and 78 enrofloxacin resistant strains of Campylobacter jejuni and C. coli respectively, isolated from broilers collected from six abattoirs situated at São José do Vale do Rio Preto/RJ poultry center and from two commercial abattoirs situated at Metropolitan Region of Rio de Janeiro, from 2013 to 2016. The resistance to enrofloxacin was assessed by agar dilution to determine minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). The CmeABC efflux system was investigated through the detection of genes genes cmeA, cmeB and cmeC by PCR. The activity of CmeABC efflux pump was investigated in 20 strains by using the efflux pump inhibitor Phenylalanine-Arginine ß-Naphthylamide (PAßN). The three genes cmeA, cmeB and cmeC were detected in 94.3% of the strains (C. jejuni = 80 and C. coli = 70), whereas the system was absent or incomplete in 5.7% of strains (C. jejuni = 1 and C. coli = 8). MIC varied between 0.5µg/ml and 64µg/ml, and 88.7% of strains were enrofloxacin resistant and 11.3% featuring intermediate resistance. The inhibition of the efflux pump by PAßN reduced the MIC to enrofloxacin up to eight times in fifteen strains (75%). These results indicate that this system is frequent and active in Campylobacter spp. Resistant strains in the presence of enrofloxacin.(AU)

As aves são os principais reservatórios de Campylobacter spp., importante patógeno de origem alimentar e a carne de frango e produtos derivados são os principais veículos desse microrganismo. O aumento de cepas de Campylobacter spp. resistentes às fluorquinolonas, uma classe antimicrobiana frequentemente empregada na avicultura e na medicina humana, tornou-se uma grande preocupação para os produtores de aves e vários estudos avaliaram o aumento da resistência bacteriana a esses antimicrobianos. O papel do sistema de efluxo CmeABC tem sido enfatizado entre os mecanismos de resistência em Campylobacter spp. à fluorquinolonas. O presente estudo investigou a ocorrência da bomba de efluxo CmeABC em 81 cepas de Campylobacter jejuni e 78 cepas de Campylobacter coli resistentes à enrofloxacina, isoladas de frangos de corte coletados em seis abatedouros situados no polo avícola de São José do Rio Preto/RJ e de dois abatedouros comerciais situados na Região Metropolitana do Rio de Janeiro, de 2013 a 2016. A resistência à enrofloxacina foi avaliada pelo método de diluição em ágar para determinar a concentração inibitória mínima (CIM). O sistema de efluxo CmeABC foi investigado através da detecção dos genes cmeA, cmeB e cmeC por PCR. A atividade da bomba de efluxo CmeABC foi investigada em 20 cepas utilizando o inibidor da bomba de efluxo Phenylalanine-Arginine ß-Naftilamida (PAßN). Os três genes cmeA, cmeB e cmeC foram detectados em 94,3% das cepas (C. jejuni = 80 e C. coli = 70), enquanto o sistema estava ausente ou incompleto em 5,7% das cepas (C. jejuni = 1 e C coli = 8). A CIM variou entre 0,5µg/ml e 64µg/ml e 88,7% das cepas foram resistentes à enrofloxacina, enquanto 11,3% apresentaram resistência intermediária. A inibição da bomba de efluxo pelo PAßN reduziu a CIM da enrofloxacina até oito vezes em quinze cepas (75%). Estes resultados indicam que este sistema é frequente e ativo em cepas resistentes de Campylobacter spp. na presença de enrofloxacina.(AU)

Epidemiological surveillance and wild-type MIC distribution of Legionella pneumophila in north-western Spain. 2003-2016.

PURPOSE: To perform epidemiological surveillance of Legionella pneumophila in recreational swimming pools in the city of Valladolid (Spain), an area with a continental climate and low incidence of legionella-associated infections. Additionally, wild-type minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) distributions for eight antibiotics commonly used for the treatment of legionellosis were calculated from the isolates obtained. METHODS: Twelve recreational pools were enrolled between June 2003 and December 2016 and 7221 water samples were taken from three different points of the water network (tank, tap and shower). Legionella culture was performed according to ISO 11731 and 11731-2 standards. MICs of antibiotics were obtained by a gradient test. RESULTS: 1.44% of the water samples were positive for L. pneumophila. 60 strains (57.69%) were isolated from showers, 26 (25.00%) from tanks and 18 (17.31%) from taps. L. pneumophila counts were <100CFU/L in 75 samples (72.12%), 100-1000CFU/L in 17 (16.35%) and >1000CFU/L in 12 (11.54%). The MIC90 values obtained were for Rifampicin 0.125mg/L; Trimethoprim-Sulfamethoxazole 0.25mg/L; Azithromycin and Levofloxacin 0.5mg/L; Clarithromycin and Ciprofloxacin 1.0mg/L; Doxycycline and Tigecycline 4.0mg/L. CONCLUSIONS: The use of showers in recreational pools can become a potential pathway for exposure to L. pneumophila, even in cold climates. The wild-type MIC distributions presented in this article may be useful for a better detection of antibiotic resistance and can contribute to improvements in the choice of the antibiotic treatment of legionellosis.

Antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity of the essential oil from dried leaves of Eucalyptus staigeriana / Atividade antimicrobiana e antibiofilme do óleo essencial de folhas secas de Eucalyptus staigeriana

In recent years, compounds with biological properties produced by plants have received attention as an alternative to control microorganisms. Essential oils extracted from green leaves of Eucalyptus sp. have been demonstrated to have antimicrobial activities, but so far there are no reports of antimicrobial activity of essential oils extracted from dried leaves of Eucalyptus staigeriana. So, the objectives of this study were to determine the chemical composition of the essential oils obtained from dried leaves of E. staigeriana (EOdlES) and to evaluate in vitro antimicrobial and antibiofilm activities of EOdlES against gram-positive and gram-negative, resistance and multiresistant Enterococcus faecalis isolated from food and clinical samples. The characterization of EOdlES was performed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS). For this study, 26 bacterial strains were used, which included 11 reference strains and 15 antibiotic resistant and multiresistant E. faecalis strains. Antimicrobial activities of EOdlES against gram-positive and gram-negative were determined using the disc diffusion method. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) value was evaluated by a microbroth dilution technique. The antibiofilm effects were assessed by microtiter plate method. As a result, 21 compounds were identified, being oxygenated monoterpenes (69.58%) the major chemical family. EOdlES showed only antimicrobial activity against gram-positive strains. E. faecalis resistant and multiresistant strains show the lowest MIC (3.12 to 6.25%), when compared with reference E. faecalis strain. EOdlES has the ability to inhibit the biofilm formation, but little or none ability to inhibit the preformed biofilm. This study demonstrates that EOdlES is a promising alternative to control important foodborne and clinic gram-positive resistant bacteria.(AU)

Nos últimos anos, compostos com propriedades biológicas produzidas por plantas têm recebido atenção como alternativa de controle de micro-organismos. Óleos essenciais extraídos de folhas verdes de Eucalyptus sp. têm demonstrado atividades antimicrobianas. No entanto, até o momento não há nenhum relato de atividade antimicrobiana de óleos essenciais extraídos de folhas secas de Eucalyptus staigeriana. O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar a composição química dos óleos essenciais obtidos de folhas secas de E. staigeriana e avaliar in vitro a sua atividade antimicrobiana e de antibiofilme contra gram-positivas e gram-negativas e também resistentes e multirresistentes de Enterococcus faecalis isolados de amostras de alimentos e clínicas. A caracterização de E. staigeriana foi realizada por CG-EM. Para este estudo foram utilizadas 26 cepas bacterianas, que incluíram 11 cepas referência e 15 cepas de E. faecalis resistentes a antibióticos. A atividade antimicrobiana de E. staigeriana contra gram-positivas e gram-negativas foi determinada utilizando o método de disco-difusão. Os valores da concentração inibitória mínima foram avaliados pela técnica de microdiluição. Os efeitos de antibiofilme foram avaliados pelo método de placa de microtitulação. Como resultado, 21 compostos foram identificados, sendo monoterpenos oxigenados (69,58%) a grande família química. E. staigeriana mostrou apenas atividade antimicrobiana contra cepas gram-positivas. Cepas de E. faecalis resistentes e multirresistentes mostraram a menor concentração inibitória mínima (3,12 para 6,25%) quando comparado com a cepa referência de E. faecalis. E. staigeriana apresentou a capacidade de inibir a formação de biofilme, mas pouca ou nenhuma capacidade de inibir o biofilme pré-formado. Este estudo demonstra que o óleo essencial obtido de folhas secas de E. staigeriana é uma alternativa promissora para controle importante de bactérias gram-positivas resistentes de origem alimentar e clínicas.(AU)

Resistencia Bacteriana por beta lactamasas de epectro extendido: un problema creciente / BACTERIAL RESISTANCE BY EXTENDED SPECTRUM BETA LACTAMASE: A GROWING PROBLEM

Las ß-lactamasas de espectro extendido (BLEE) son enzimas que generan resistencia a la mayoría de los b-lactámicos, incluyendo a penicilinas, cefalosporinas de primera, segunda, tercera generación, monobactámicos, excepto a la cefamicina y carbapenémicos. Esta resistencia se vio incrementada por el indiscriminado uso de cefalosporinas para infecciones incluso leves. También cuentan con frecuencia con genes para otros antimicrobianos como ser aminoglucosidos, tetraciclinas y cotrimoxazol. Además, las cepas BLEE (+) son más frecuentemente resistentes a quinolonas que las cepas no productoras de BLEE. La resistencia actual que existe a las betalactamasas de espectro extendido aumenta las tasas de mortalidad, ya que en pacientes con infecciones se inician tratamientos empíricos, que al no tener buena respuesta ocasionan que el cuadro clínico llegue a evolucionar hasta la sepsis. El tratamiento de elección en estos casos es el uso de carbapenémicos, recomendación que se basa principalmente en el resultado de resistencia observada in vitro. Los nuevos carbapenémicos, como ertapenem o doripenem parecen tener una excelente actividad. Se realiza una revisión de los aspectos básicos de la aparición de cepas BLEE y su importancia en el manejo de pacientes con cuadros infecciosos, que son de frecuente presentación en los Hospitales de referencia

Safety and efficacy of various strains of bacille Calmette-Guérin in the treatment of bladder tumours in standard clinical practice. / Eficacia y seguridad de distintas cepas de BCG en el tratamiento del tumor vesical en práctica clínica habitual.

BACKGROUND: The natural progression of bladder tumours (nonmuscle-invasive bladder cancer [NMIBC]) is recurrence with a high rate of progression. Bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG) has been shown effective in reducing these rates, but there are few comparative studies between strains. MATERIAL AND METHODS: An observational, prospective and multicentre registry studied 433 patients with a 12-month follow-up visit from 961 registered patients, assessing disease-free survival (DFS), progression-free survival (PFS) cancer-specific survival (CSS) and adverse effects. We studied the Tice, Russian, Tokyo, Connaught and RIVM strains. RESULTS: The sociodemographic data, NMIBC history, comorbidities, size, number, stage, grade, associated carcinoma in situ and transurethral resection were well balanced. DFS: There were 85 relapses (19.6%). The median DFS time was 20months. When comparing the various strains, we detected no statistically significant differences (log-rank test; P=.93). LPS: There were 33 cases of progression (7.62%). When comparing the various strains, we detected no statistically significant differences (log-rank test; P=.69). CSS: Seven patients died (1.68%). When comparing the various strains, we detected no statistically significant differences (log-rank test; P=.93). In terms of safety, 33.3% of the patients presented some type of adverse effect, mostly lower urinary symptoms (no urinary tract infections) <48h, >48h and haematuria. According to the Common Toxicity Criteria of the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer, 92.7% of the patients were grade1. There were no statistically significant differences between the strains. CONCLUSIONS: In this intermediate analysis, the risk of recurrence, progression, specific death and safety were independent of the BCG strain employed.

Control del deterioro microbiológico de filetes de tilapia mediante la aplicación de bacterias lácticas / Control Microbiological Deterioration of Tilapia Fillets by the Application of Lactic Acid Bacteria / Controle de Deterioração Microbiológica da Tilápia Arquiva Através da Aplicação de Bactérias Láticas

Resumen En los últimos años se ha reconocido el potencial de las bacterias ácido lácticas (BAL) como agentes bioconservantes de productos cárnicos, incluido el pescado, al reducir el deterioro microbiológico y químico. El objetivo de este trabajo fue determinar el efecto bioconservante de dos cepas de BAL y el tiempo de impregnación en la calidad microbiológica y química de filetes de tilapia. Se evaluaron dos tiempos de impregnación (1h y 2h) y las BAL Lactobacillus plantarum JCM 1149 y Lactobacillus acidophilus ATCC4356. Los filetes bioconservados (FB) se almacenaron a 5°C y se evaluaron los cambios en el recuento de BAL, mesófilos, psicrófilos y coliformes totales durante 30 días. Los recuentos en los FB fueron de 5.94 de Log UFC/g. de BAL, y <2.7 log UFC/g de coliformes y psicrófilos. Los filetes control presentaron recuentos de 1.2 log UFC/g de BAL mientras los coliformes totales y psicrófilos superaron el límite permitido para consumo humano luego de 10 días. Luego de 10 días. El tratamiento que mantuvo la calidad microbiológica y química de los FB por más tiempo fue L. plantarum con inmersión de una hora. Las BAL estudiadas mostraron un efecto inhibitorio de la microflora deteriorante del pescado y una reducción en la formación de nitrógeno volátil, siendo un método viable para la conservación del pescado.

Abstract In recent years, it has recognized the potential of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) as biopreservatives agents for meat products, including fish, by reducing the microbiological and chemical spoilage. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of two strains biopreservative LAB and impregnation time on the microbiological and chemical quality of tilapia fillets. Two impregnation time (1h and 2h) and two LAB (Lactobacillus plantarum JCM 1149 and Lactobacillus acidophilus ATCC4356 were evaluated. The biopreserved fillets (BF) were stored at 5 ° C and the changes of the LAB count, mesophilic, psychrophilic and total coliforms., were evaluated for 30 days. The microbiological analysis show for the BF 5.94 log CFU / g. of LAB and <2.7 log CFU / g of coliform and psychrophilic bacteria. The control Fillets showed 1.2 log CFU / g of LAB while the psychrophile and total coliforms exceeded the allowed limit for human consumption after 10 days. The treatment kept the microbiological and chemical quality of the BF longer was L. plantarum with one hour of impregnation. The LAB studied showed an inhibitory effect of the spoilage microflora of fish and a reduction in the formation of volatile nitrogen compounds, being a viable fish preservation method.

Resumo Nos últimos anos tem se reconhecido o potencial das bactérias ácido lácticas (BAL) como agentes bioconservantes de pro dutos carnicos, incluído o peixe ao diminuir o deterioro microbiológico e químico. O propósito deste estudo foi determinar o efeito bioconservante de duas cepas de BAL e a avaliação do tempo de impregnação requerido para obter uma boa qua lidade microbiológica e química de filetes de tilapia. Foram avaliados dois tempos de impregnação (1h e 2h) com as BAL Lactobacillus plantarum JMC 1149 e Lactobacillus acidophilus ATCC4356. Os filetes biopreservados (FB) foram estocados a 5oC e valoradas as modificações na contagem de microorganismos BAL, mesófilos, psicrófilos, coliformes totais durante 30 dias. As contagens microbianas nos FB foram de 5.94 de log UFC/g e <2.7 log UFC/g de coliformes e psicrofilos. Os filetes controle apresentaram valores de 1.2 log UFC/g de BAL, não entanto os coliformes totais e psicrófilos superaram o limite permitido para consumo humano após 10 dias de estocagem. O tratamento que manteve a qualidade microbiológica e química dos FB por maior tempo foi de imersão com Lactobacillus plantarum por uma hora. As BAL estudadas amostraram um efeito inibitório da microflora deteriorante dos peixes e uma redução na formação de nitrogênio volátil se apresentan do como um método viável para a preservação de filete de peixe

Nanopartículas de CuO y su propiedad antimicrobiana en cepas intrahospitalarias / CuO nanoparticles and their antimicrobial activity against nosocomial strains / Nanopartículas de CuO e sua propriedade antimicrobiana frente a cepas intrahospitalares

Resumen Empleando un prototipo de reactor, se sintetizaron nanopartículas (NPs) de CuO a través del método de precipitación a partir de CuSO25H2O y de Cu(CH3COO)2H2O. Las NPs obtenidas fueron caracterizadas mediante XRD, FT-IR, TEM y SEM. La actividad antimicrobiana de las NPs se determinó mediante el método de difusión en placa, colocando 20 mg de NPs de CuO sobre cuatro cepas intrahospitalarias o nosocomiales aisladas de la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos de un hospital nacional de Lima norte (Staphylococcus epidermidis, Aerococcus viridans, Ochrobactrum anthropi y Micrococcus lylae). La caracterización de las NPs de CuO demostró que las sintetizadas a partir de acetato (CuO-Acet) presentaron una fase pura de CuO, mientras que las sintetizadas a partir de sulfato (CuO-Sulf) presentaron dos fases, donde la de CuO representó más del 84%. Los dominios cristalinos del CuO-Acet y CuO-Sulf fueron 15 y 19 nm, respectivamente. Los halos de inhibición de las cepas estudiadas fueron mayores para las NPs de CuO-Sulf que para las NPs de CuO-Acet; solo para la cepa Ochrobactrum anthropi se presentaron halos similares para ambos tipos de NPs.

Abstract Using a prototype reactor, CuO nanoparticles (NPs) were synthetized through the precipitation method, starting from CuSO2 5H2O and Cu(CH3COO)2H2O. The obtained NPs were characterized by XDR, FT-IR, SEM, and TEM. The antimicrobial activity of the NPs was determined by the plate diffusion method, placing 20 mg of NPs onto four nosocomial strains obtained from north Lima national hospital Intensive-Care Unit (Staphylococcus epidermidis, Aerococcus viridans, Ochrobactrum anthropic, and Micrococcus lylae). NPs characterization revealed that those synthetized from acetate (CuO-Acet) shown pure CuO phase, while those synthetized from sulphate CuO-Sulf shown two phases where CuO was the predominant one, having more than 84%. The crystal domains for CuO-Acet and CuO-Sulf were 15 and 19 nm, respectively. The inhibition halos for the studied strains were larger for CuO-Sulf NPs than CuO-Acet NPs, only Ochrobactrum anthropi displayed similar inhibition halos for both types of NPs.

Resumo Usando um protótipo de reator, sintetizaram-se nanopartículas (NPs) de CuO pelo método de precipitação a partir de CuSO25H2O e de Cu(CH3COO)2H2O. As NPs obtidas foram caracterizadas por meio das seguintes técnicas: XRD, FT-IR, TEM e SEM. A atividade antimicrobiana das NPs foi determinada pelo método de difusão em placa, colocando 20 mg de NPs de CuO sobre quatro cepas nosocomiais isoladas de uma Unidade de Terapia Intensiva no hospital nacional de Lima norte (Staphylococcus epidermidis, Aerococcus viridans, Ochrobactrum anthropic e Micrococcus lylae). A caracterização das NPs de CuO mostrou que as nanopartículas sintetizadas a partir do acetato (CuO-Acet) apresentavam uma fase pura de CuO, enquanto que as sintetizadas a partir do sulfato (CuO-Sulf), apresentaram duas fases sendo a fase maior de CuO, com mais de 84%. Os domínios cristalinos de CuO-Acet y CuO-Sulf foram 15 e 19 nm, respectivamente. Os halos de inibição das cepas estudadas foram maiores para as NPs de CuO-Sulf do que as NPs de CuO-Acet somente para a cepa Ochrobactrum anthropi, apresentaram-se halos de inibição parecidos.

Variability study of entomopathogenic nematode populations (Heterorhabditidae) from Argentina / Estudo da variabilidade entomopatogênicos nematóides populações (Heterorhabditidae) da Argentina

Abstract Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPN) belonging to the Heterorhabditidae family are lethal parasites of soil-dwelling insects. Two species were reported in Argentina: Heterorhabditis argentinensis and Heterorhabditis bacteriophora characterized mainly by morphometric features. In this work a comparative and phylogenetic study between five Heterorhabditis populations from Argentina was conducted to analyze the variability between strains and to evaluate the taxonomic position of Heterorhabditis argentinensis. The PCA analyses of morphometric characters separated the larger juvenile, female and male H. argentinensis from H. bacteriophora populations. The juvenile (IJs) stage provided the clearest separation of Heterorhabditis populations presenting the least variability between strains. The variable L and MBW were highly related to H. argentinensis IJs. Three groups were separated by this stage considering PC1 and PC2: one formed by H. bacteriophora OLI, RIV and RN strains, (isolates from Córdoba and Río Negro province), one for H. bacteriophora VELI strain (Buenos Aires province) and one for H. argentinensis (Santa Fe province). Heterorhabditis bacteriophora VELI and H. argentinensis isolated from regions with more rainfalls and humidity presented larger values for morphometric features. Molecular analyses showed the Argentinian populations (H. bacteriophora VELI strain and H. argentinensis), forming a same clade, with six other H. bacteriophora populations (not from Argentina) with a genetic similarity between them of 99%. Heterorhabditis argentinensis presented one unique nucleotide that was not present in any of the other species of the clade. Considering the results of this study H. argentinensis would be conspecific to H. bacteriophora, constituting a strain with a great morphometric variation where the host and climatic conditions could have influenced on the measurements.

Resumo Nematóides entomopatogênicos (EPN) pertencentes à família Heterorhabditidae são parasitas letais de insetos que vivem no solo. Duas espécies foram relatados na Argentina: Heterorhabditis argentinensis e Heterorhabditis bacteriophora, caracterizada principalmente por características morfométricas. Neste trabalho um estudo comparativo e filogenética entre cinco populações do Heterorhabditis da Argentina foi conduzido para analisar a variabilidade entre as linhagens e avaliar a posição taxonômica das Heterorhabditis argentinensis. Características morfométricas de Heterorhabditis bacteriophora VELI e H. argentinensis isoladas de regiões com mais chuvas e umidade apresentaram dimensões maiores. Analisa o PCA de personagens morfométricas separou a maior juvenil, feminino e masculino H. argentinensis de H. bacteriophora populações. A fase juvenil (JIs) fornece a mais clara separação de populações Heterorhabditis apresentando a menor variação entre as cepas. A L variável e MBW foram altamente relacionada com H. argentinensis JIs. Três grupos foram separados por esta fase considerando PC1 e PC2: um formado por H. bacteriophora OLI, RIV e estirpes RN, (isolados de Córdoba e província de Rio Negro), um para a estirpe H. bacteriophora VELI (província de Buenos Aires) e um para H. argentinensis (província de Santa Fe). Heterorhabditis bacteriophora VELI e H. argentinensis isolado a partir de regiões com mais chuvas e umidade apresentaram maiores valores para as características morfométricas. A análise molecular mostrou as populações da Argentina (estirpe H. bacteriophora VELI e H. argentinensis), formando um mesmo subtipo, com seis outras populações H. bacteriophora (não da Argentina), com uma similaridade genética entre eles de 99%. Heterorhabditis argentinensis apresentado um único nucleótido que não estava presente em nenhum dos outros espécies do clado. Considerando os resultados deste estudo H. argentinensis seria conspecific a H. bacteriophora, constituindo uma estirpe com uma grande variação morfométrica onde o anfitrião e as condições climáticas podem ter influenciado nas medições.