bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MORFOLOGÍA DEL SISTEMA DIGESTIVO DE LA RAYA MARIPOSA GYMNURA MICRURA (BATOIDEA: GYMNURIDAE)
Authors: Kobelkowsky Abraham
Published: October 2017

In order to know the morphological organization of the digestive system of the smooth butterfly ray Gymnura micrura, specimens were collected with a trawl net in coastal lagoons and littoral of the Gulf of Mexico. Samples were fixed in formaldehyde and preserved in ethylic alcohol. In the laboratory, the anatomic analysis of the digestive tract components and its glands, together with the comparison with representative species of the Rhinobatidae, Rajidae, Urotrygonidae, and Dasyatidae families, allowed for the recognition that the general organization of the digestive system of G. micrura fits to the general morphological pattern of Batoidea. However, some significant differences were recognized between this species and the remaining rays, such as the slender nature of its jaws, the reduced volume of the mandible musculature, and the welldefined development of two anterior hepatic lobes separated from each other. It is outstanding the number of two posterior hepatic lobes as a shared morphological character with other Myliobatoidei. This species shows sexual dental dimorphism, consisting in a greater size of the dental cuspid in each tooth of males
EMISIÓN DE METANO Y ÓXIDO NITROSO DE LOS SEDIMENTOS DE MANGLAR DE LA CIÉNAGA GRANDE DE SANTA MARTA, CARIBE COLOMBIANO
Authors: Betancourt Portela Julián Mauricio , Parra Juan Pablo , Villamil Carlos
Published: October 2017

In Colombia there is little information on the role of mangroves in relation to greenhouse gases (GHG), their release rates under different environmental conditions, or their role in the global carbon cycle. For these reasons, in this study we evaluated the fluxes of CH4 and N2O, in four sectors of the Ciénaga Grande de Santa Marta (CGSM) with different degrees of conservation of mangrove forests, to determine their role as a source or sink of GHG. The fluxes were measured by the method of the static chambers and showed variations between 34.7-1179.7 and nd-31569.2 μg.m-2.h-1 for N2O and CH4, respectively, showing that mangrove sediments of CGSM are a net source of GHG, and furthermore are of the same magnitude as levels recorded world-wide in mangroves subjected to sewage input. Statistical analyses showed differences between sectors but not between climatic periods. N2O emissions were highest in the Agua Negras station (AN, 847.3 ± 265.7 μg.m-2.h-1), a locality in the process of natural regeneration with a direct influence from the Magdalena River and in Caño Dragado (CD, 438.7 ± 235.3 μg.m-2.h-1); while emissions were lower in the recovery sites Caño Grande (CG) and Rinconada (RIN), (104.7 ± 49.4 and 152.1 ± 36.0 μg.m-2.h-1, respectively). The highest CH4 emission was recorded in recovery sectors: CG and AN (9573.4 ± 8623.8 and 4328.2 ± 7569.5 μg.m-2.h-1, respectively). In terms of CO2-equivalent, N2O emissions account for over 50% of the total, and this has been documented for agricultural systems and constitutes evidence of deterioration of CD. A correlation analysis with environmental factors showed that N2O emissions vary inversely with salinity and positively with nitrites, suggesting production mainly via nitrification. Finally, a coarse estimation of GHG emissions per hectare indicated that, depending on the state of conservation or deterioration of the mangrove, emissions can vary from 10.2 to 27.1 tCO2-eq.ha-1.a-1.
FECTO DE LA SALINIDAD EN LA SUPERVIVENCIA Y CRECIMIENTO DE CRÍAS DE CABALLITO DE MAR HIPPOCAMPUS REIDI GINSBURG EN CAUTIVERIO
Authors: Melo Valencia Andrés Felipe , Ospina Salazar Gloria Helena , Gómez León Javier , Cortés Pineda Fabián Andrés
Published: October 2017

This study was conducted to determine the optimal salinity for the culture of H. reidi fry during the fist month of life, evaluating the effect of different salinities (27, 30, 33, and 36) on its growth and survival. The fry were distributed at three ind.L-1 density in 12 L incubators, animals were fed ad libitum throughout the experiment, survival was monitored daily, and height and weight were measured both at the beginning and end of the experiment. The salinity did not show signifiant differences between treatments, the highest survival rate was obtained at 27 with 17.59 ± 6.99%.
PRIMER REGISTRO DE MEDUSAS DEL GÉNERO LYCHNORHIZA (CNIDARIA: SCYPHOZOA: RHIZOSTOMEAE: LYCHNORHIZIDAE) EN EL MAR CARIBE COLOMBIANO
Authors: Cedeño Posso Cristina María Cedeño-Posso , Lecompte Pérez Orlando Pedro
Published: October 2017

This paper reports for the fist time in Colombia the jellyfih Lychnorhiza sp., aff. L. lucerna, based on seventeen individuals collected in front of Isla de Rosario (Magdalena). This jellyfih is one of the most common inhabitants in coastal waters from southeastern Brazil to northern Argentina, but it was not recorded yet from the Caribbean coast of Colombia.
MORFOLOGÍA EXTERNA Y TERMINOLOGÍA PARA LAS ESPECIES DE MUNIDA (CRUSTACEA: ANOMURA: MUNIDIDAE) DEL ATLÁNTICO Y PACÍFICO ORIENTAL TROPICAL
Authors: Navas S. Gabriel R. , Bermúdez Tobón Adriana , Campos C. Néstor Hernando
Published: October 2017

The genus Munida is one of the most diverse within the superfamily Galatheoidea. This genus also represents one of the richest and most abundant decapod crustaceans from the continental shelves and upper slopes of the Caribbean and Pacific coasts of Colombia. A morphological study of species of this genus showed taxonomic difficulties mainly due to the lack of topological correspondence of some of the diagnostic characters, confusion in the nomenclature and poor or incomplete descriptions of some species. The majority of the species belonging to the genus Munida found in the tropical Atlantic and eastern Pacific oceans were analyzed. Based on the topological correspondence of several external morphological characters of the examined species, a standardization of the nomenclature of the diagnostic characters for species identification is proposed.
PATRONES DE DISTRIBUCIÓN ESTACIONAL DE MASAS DE AGUA EN LA BAHÍA DE SANTA MARTA, CARIBE COLOMBIANO: IMPORTANCIA RELATIVA DEL UPWELLING Y OUTWELLING
Authors: Mancera Pineda José Ernesto , Pinto Gerfried , Vilardy Sandra
Published: October 2017

In order to generate a conceptual model of seasonal distribution of water masses to Santa Marta bay, we identify, from main biotic and abiotic variables related to its water quality, patterns along the annual cycle. The model shows the major influence of the domestic residual water discharges during the rainy seasons (outwelling). These discharges explains the reduction of dissolved oxygen and water transparency and at the same times the increase of phosphorus and chlorophyll a concentrations. Although there is not stratification in the vertical nutrient distribution, there are differences in light distribution and consequently the primary productivity takes place mainly in the water column surface. The model shows that the outfall constitutes an important nutrient input and postulates as a hypothesis that the discharges will intensify the upwelling fertilization effect during the first half of the year, with low impact during the outwelling season due to water stratification.
EVALUACIÓN DEL CICLO GAMETOGÉNICO DE ARGOPECTEN NUCLEUS (PECTINIDAE, BIVALVIA) EN SISTEMA DE CULTIVO SUSPENDIDO, EN LA BAHÍA DE NENGUANGE, SANTA MARTA, COLOMBIA
Authors: Daniel Lemus Yucellys P. , Acosta Ortiz Ernesto OJ. , Cuello Félix De Jesús , Gómez León Javier
Published: October 2017

Between April and September 2010, the gametogenic cycle of the scallop Argopecten nucleus was studied in Nenguange Bay in Tayrona National Park. Ten organisms were collected every 14 days and processed for histology of their gonads. Parallel to this, the morfocromatic appearance of the gonads of 55 individuals kept in a suspended culture system was followed, setting up fie stages as follows: I = Rest and undifferentiation; II = Initial development; III = Advanced development; IV = Mature; and V = Spawning. The predominant gonadal stage was III with an average of 60%, followed by stage V with 20.7%, followed by IV with 13.5%, and fially stages II and I with 5.1 and 0.6% respectively. We found a signifiant relationship between the gonadosomatic index and precipitation (p = 0.0001), temperature (p = 0.0015), salinity (p = 0.0003), and chlorophyll a (p = 0.0285). The condition factor (CF) showed a correlation with particulate organic matter (POM; p = 0.0243), however, when performing a simple regression, the test indicated that the MOP will not substantially affect the FC with a correlation index of 4.53.
AN INSIGHT INTO THE ECONOMIC VALUE OF REEF ENVIRONMENTS THROUGH THE LITERATURE: THE CASE OF THE SEAFLOWER BIOSPHERE RESERVE
Authors: Londoño Díaz Luz , Vargas Morales Myriam
Published: October 2017

The Seaflwer Biosphere Reserve (SBR) is one of the few places in Colombia with a set of available studies on the economic value of its reef environments. This paper seeks to review the policy applications of these studies, and evaluate the use of benefi transfer (BT) methods to predict value estimates for sites in the SBR where no valuations have been performed. First, the paper provides an analysis and categorization of policy uses of existing results. A set of economic valuation studies were identifid as somewhat inflential in policy applications, because they provided fiancial sustainability tools for marine protected areas. A case study was selected from the pool of inflential studies in order to assess the viability of BT. Second, the viability of using BT for determining recreational values of coral reefs within the SBR was assessed by: i) implementing a demand function transfer between the Johnny Cay Regional Park and the Old Providence and McBean Lagoon National Park; and ii) by estimating a meta-analytic function transfer based on world-wide meta-data on the recreational value of coral reefs. Results suggested a potential for the use of BT to predict recreational values for coral reefs in the SBR. In particular, the metaanalytic results indicated low to moderate transfer errors for the SBR, suggesting the viability of this approach.
BIODIVERSIDAD MARINA EN BAJO NUEVO, BAJO ALICIA Y BANCO SERRANILLA, RESERVA DE BIOSFERA SEAFLOWER
Authors: Vega Sequeda Johanna , Díaz Sánchez Christian M. , Gómez Campo Kelly , López Londoño Tomás , Díaz Ruiz Martha , Gómez-López Diana Isabel
Published: October 2017

In 2011, shallow marine ecosystems were evaluated (0-30 m depth) in the oceanic reef complexes in the northern Colombian Caribbean, including New Shoal, Alice Shoal (Colombia-Jamaica Joint Regime Area) and Serranilla Bank, in the Seaflwer Biosphere Reserve. Sampling stations were defied a priori through visual analysis of satellite images. Ecological Rapid Assessments were conducted to record the composition and relative abundance of the most representative species and groups existing in each oceanic shoal (hard corals, macroalgae, sponges, octocorals, macroinvertebrates, seagrass beds, and fihes). The greatest number of species was registered in Serranilla Bank (341), followed by New Shoal (242) and Alice Shoal (122). Fishes were the most representative group with 135 species. Seven exclusive species were found in Alice Shoal, 42 in New Shoal and 128 in Serranilla Bank. 18 species were registered with endangered categories at a global and national level, three of which (Gorgonia ventalina, Ginglymostoma cirratum and Balistes vetula) were found in important proportions. Species richness and the diversity of marine ecosystems found in this study highlight the importance of these remote areas as reserves of biodiversity in the Colombian Caribbean.
DISMINUCIÓN DEL CONTENIDO DE COBRE EN PINTURAS “ANTIFOULING” DE MATRIZ SOLUBLE, USO DEL EUGENOL COMO ADITIVO
Authors: Pérez Miriam , García Mónica , Stupak Mirta , Blustein Guillermo
Published: October 2017

Biofouling leads to deterioration of any submerged material. The most widespread method for control is the application of cuprous oxide antifouling paints which are toxic. For this reason non-toxic natural products could be combined with small amounts of copper to diminish the contribution to the environment. The aim of this work was to reduce the amount of copper in antifouling paints employing eugenol as an additive. Three antifouling paints were prepared, one containing 16% v/v copper, another with 1.6% copper and a third with 1.6% copper + 2% eugenol. After 12 months of immersion in Mar del Plata harbour paints containing 1.6% copper + eugenol and 16% copper were the most effective. Although these formulations shown a similar performance, copper+eugenol based paint contains 90% less copper than a traditional copper based formulation. Therefore, the objective of this work was reached.
FIRST CHARACTERIZATION OF THE PLANKTONIC COMMUNITY IN THE NORTHERN SECTOR OF THE JOINT REGIME AREA JAMAICA – COLOMBIA
Authors: Gutiérrez Salcedo José Manuel , Cabarcas Mier Angélica , Suárez Mozo Nancy
Published: October 2017

The Joint Regime Area Jamaica-Colombia (JRA) is a sector of economic importance for Colombia but its biodiversity is unknown due to the diffiult access. Therefore, the Institute of Marine and Coastal Research - Invemar in agreement with the National Hydrocarbon Agency - ANH, made an expedition in 2011 to obtain a fist approximation to the diversity of the JRA. Within the groups studied was the plankton, which was collected around landforms at 21 sampling stations in the northern sector of the JRA, with special plankton nets of 20 µm pore size mesh for phytoplankton and 200 µm for zooplankton. Organisms were identifid to the lowest possible taxonomic category and an ecological analysis was performed using descriptive statistics, univariate and multivariate. 183 morphospecies of phytoplankton and 57 taxa (family and phylum) of zooplankton were identifid, generating three geographically differentiated associations. The phyto and zooplankton found in the JRA is part of the plankton community typical of oligotrophic tropical oceanic waters and local differences could be due to ocean dynamics between the Caribbean Current Surface and landforms of the of San Andrés and JRA archipelago.
EVALUACIÓN DE AMPLIFICACIÓN CRUZADA DE MICROSATÉLITES PARA ESTUDIOS DE GENÉTICA POBLACIONAL DEL CAZÓN ANTILLANO RHIZOPRIONODON POROSUS (CARCHARHINIDAE) EN EL CARIBE COLOMBIANO
Authors: Almanza Bernal Mónica , Márquez Edna J. , Chasqui Luis
Published: October 2017

The Caribbean sharpnose shark, Rhizoprionodon porosus is an important resource for artisanal small-scale fisheries. It is one of the most abundant coastal sharks within its distribution range, and plays an important role as a predator in coastal marine ecosystems. For its coastal habits, it is susceptible to intensive extraction, especially the juveniles. To accomplish proper management and conservation of exploited Rhizoprionodon populations, knowledge about its genetic diversity and its population structure within their distribution range is needed. The ability of heterologous primers developed for other requiem sharks to amplify microsatellite molecular markers in R. porosus was tested in this study (cross amplification). The change in allele frequency of four microsatellite loci served to assess the genetic structure of R. porosus in the Colombian Caribbean. Analysis of molecular variance Amova and population structure analysis using the Фst statistical of genotype frequencies indicate low but significant genetic differentiation among R. porosus from the departments analyzed (Фst (3,165) = 0.002; p = 0.000). Besides, the analysis of pairs of departments indicates that there is significant genetic differentiation among La Guajira and the other samples analyzed of the Antillean sharpnose shark (all p values = 0.000). The information obtained helps to understand the dynamics of natural populations of the Caribbean sharpnose shark, serving as a baseline for the formulation, development of conservation strategies and management of this fishery resource; however, due the low number of heterologous loci useful for population genetics studies, research efforts on the development of specific markers for the species should be done for further population genetic studies of this species.
FECUNDIDAD DEL JUREL ALETA AMARILLA, CARANX HIPPOS (LINNAEUS) EN EL CARIBE COLOMBIANO
Authors: Alfaro Martínez Sandra , Bustos Montes Diana , Salas Castro Sarith , Gómez León Javier , Rueda Mario
Published: October 2017

Caranx hippos is one of the most important fish resources in Colombia, particularly in artisanal fisheries. In order to deepen C. hippos biological knowledge, fecundity (number of eggs in development) and oocyte diameter was estimated. Fish samples were collected from commercial artisanal fishing trips, each fish was measured (total length, Lt) and weighted (total weight, Pt); gonads were removed, weighed and analyzed for determining fecundity using a gravimetric method combined with image analysis performed using the open access software Image J®. From the measurement of 149552 oocytes, an average diameter of 0.32 ± 1.24E-4 mm, was obtained, while fecundity varied between 291439 and 4380480 oocytes per gonad. No direct relationship was evidenced between egg number and diameter, and fish size and weight. Mature oocyte microstructural development is described, average diameters in cortical alveoli and vitellogenesis were 98.6 + 33.1 μm y 207.5+ 59.6 μm, respectively. This result suggests that larger females are not always the more fertile. Given the importance of C. hippos in Colombia, this work is a valuable contribution to the knowledge of the species, which can be used in fishery models with direct applicability to management procedures.
EVENTOS DE INTENSIFICACIÓN Y RELAJACIÓN DEL VIENTO EN LA BAHÍA DE SANTA MARTA (CARIBE COLOMBIANO): IMPLICACIONES OCEANOGRÁFICAS
Authors: Bastidas Salamanca Martha Lucero , Ordóñez Zúñiga Silvio Andrés , Ricaurte Villota Constanza
Published: October 2017

Events of wind intensification and relaxation bring changes in their components that can be favorable or not to the coastal upwelling because there is a change in the alignment of these with respect to the coast line. In order to assess the oceanographic dynamics in the bay of Santa Marta during 2014 and 2015 in response to changes in the zonal and meridional wind component, wind data were analyzed in an adjacent marine point at Santa Marta’s bay and measurements of temperature, salinity and dissolved oxygen were conducted in the water column during the months of March, May, July, and October 2014 and 2015 at a fixed station in the bay up to 18 m deep. Interannual oceanographic differences were found in March and June, which were explained by intra-seasonal variations in the wind field during 2015; in March alternating events of wind intensification and relaxation occurred with changes in both magnitude and direction, which explain the increases in temperature and water advection from La Guajira with lower oxygen values. In June 2015, an event of wind intensification, associated with changes in magnitude but no direction, was recorded, which explained the decrease in temperature, which was lower than the one in 2014. That month was characterized by strong winds and waves, but the directions were not favorable to the coastal upwelling, which explained that no low values of dissolved oxygen as expected in this type of events were found.
ECOLOGÍA COSTERA AL SURESTE DE ISLA MARGARITA, VENEZUELA (ABRIL 2012 – MAYO 2014)
Authors: Gómez Gaspar Alfredo , Mata Ernesto , Barceló Amalia
Published: October 2017

Venezuela, until 2005 Southeast of Margarita Island was an important area in sardine fishing Sardinella aurita but catches declined sharply even until 2013; therefore, pelagic environmental conditions were studied and compared with those obtained in years when there were abundant sardine catches. For 26 months (April/2012 to May/2014) in three fixed stations sampling (every two weeks for 14 months and monthly 12 months) at depths of 1 and 20 m, horizontal hauls (10-15 m depth) for 20 minutes were made in order to study hydrography, nutrients, primary production, chlorophylls, and abundance of mesozooplankton. In 2012 and 2013 it was verified that the local aquatic fertility remained low compared to 2003-2004. In 2014 some fertility recovery was denoted by increased nutrients (nitrite and nitrate); chlorophylls a and b notably increased to 3.79 and 1.81 mg/m3 respectively and primary production to 497.97 mgC/m3/day. The average density of zooplankton ranged between 131.21 and 192.49 ind/m3, thesediment volumes 0.13-0.14 mL/m3 and dry weights between 0.62 and 0.95 mg/m3; the density of sardine eggs varied between 2.12 and 8.57/m3 and their representation in the plankton ranged between 1.88 and 6.24%, these values are much lower compared to those found in years with heavy sardine catches (2002- 2004).
FECUNDIDAD DE SCOMBEROMORUS SIERRA (PERCIFORMES: SCOMBRIDAE) EN EL PACÍFICO COLOMBIANO
Authors: Eraso Ordoñez Jessica Franeive , Bustos-Montes Diana Milena , Salas-Castro Sarith , Girón Alexander , Rueda Mario
Published: October 2017

Scomberomorus sierra (Pacific sierra) is one of the most important species in the artisanal fishing on29-4430 Boletín de Investigaciones Marinas y Costeras • Vol. 46 (1) • 2017the Colombian Pacific. In order to investigate its reproductive biology, important input for fisherymanagement, gonadal development was described and partial fecundity and average size of the oocyteswere estimated. Fish samples came from commercial landings on different fishing grounds. Total (TL)and standard lengths of each fish were measured, as well as the total and gonadal weights. Fecunditywas estimated using a gravimetric method combined with image analysis performed using the openaccess software Image J®. 79 fish were collected between November 2013 and April 2014, rangingfrom 39.0 to 85.0 cm in TL and weighing between 300 and 2850 g. The allocation of gonadal maturitywas histologically verified, finding 75 females and 4 males. From the measurement of 12084 oocytes, anaverage diameter of 0.551 ± 0.024 mm was obtained, while fecundity varied between 52398 and 480803oocytes per gonad. Microstructurally, four stages of oocyte development (perinuclear, cortical alveoli,vitellogenic and hydrated) were identified; only one state was observed in males. Mean diameter of theoocytes in the cortical alveoli, vitellogenesis and hydrated stages were 168.75 ± 3.86 μm, 324.08 ± 5.89μm and 388.90 ± 8.81 μm, respectively. The relationship between fecundity and morphometric variablesof the fish was significant and positive, evidencing that the largest females are the most fertile. Size atsexual maturity was preliminary estimated at 58.88 cm TL. The results obtained are inputs from fisherymodels with direct applicability to management of S. sierra.
ESTRUCTURA POBLACIONAL DEL PEZ MACRÚRIDO COELORINCHUS CAELORHINCUS EN AGUAS PROFUNDAS DE LA COSTA CARIBE DE COLOMBIA.
Authors: Paramo Jorge , Motta Jasney , De La Hoz Javier
Published: October 2017

The objective of the study is to describe the patterns of spatial distribution and size structure of Coelorinchus caelorhincus in deep-sea waters of Colombian Caribbean. The samples were collected with trawling in depths between 200 and 550 m. Statistically significant differences in the sizes of the sexeswere found, indicating sexual dimorphism. The length structure by depth strata showed a size increase with depth for both females and males. The length at sexual maturity in females was 17.238 cm TL. The spatial distribution indicates that in the northeastern area the higher aggregations were off the coast of the Magdalena River, off Santa Marta and Riohacha cities. In the southwestern area the higher aggregations were towards the northern part of the Urabá Gulf.
FIRST RECORD OF BRITTLE-STAR SCHIZOSTELLA BIFURCATA (ECHINODERMATA: OPHIUROIDEA) IN THE COLOMBIAN CARIBBEAN
Authors: Manrique-Rodríguez Nelson , Borrero-Pérez Giomar H.
Published: October 2017

This paper reports Schizostella bifurcata, a member of the family Gorgonocephalidae for the first time in the Colombian Caribbean. This report is based on specimens collected from the continental shelf of Santa Marta bay, where the species was found associated with gorgonians.
Stereoselective Reactions with Chiral Schiff Base Metal Complexes
Authors: Gualandi Andrea , Wilson Claire Margaret , Cozzi Pier Giorgio
Published: October 2017

Chiral Schiff bases are privileged chiral ligands, capable of transmitting chiral information in many stereoselective processes. Their modular nature, the possibility to modify their electronic character, and their ability to coordinate many metals, gives these chiral ligands broad
utility and these have been investigated by many research groups around the world. For more than 20 years our research group has devoted attention to the application of chiral Schiff bases in the development of new stereoselective processes and in this brief survey we present our principal results and achievements in this field.
Influence of Supply Chain Linkages with BoP Enterprises on Market Knowledge Competence and Propensity to Internationalization of MNEs: A Measurement Model
Authors: Siddiqui Sulaman Hafeez , Othman Ismail Bin Lebai
Published: October 2017

Objectives: There has been growing interest in network theory of internationalization as a means to achieve 'cooperative advantage' and 'economies of networking'. Yet there is seldom any measurement model that may offer quantitative approach and tools to analyze role of supply chain linkages of Base of Pyramid (BoP) enterprises with MNE subsidiaries in host markets.

Design/Methods: The study makes use of statistical data reduction techniques such as factor analysis to test reliability and validity of the proposed model using data obtained through a structured questionnaire from supply chain/marketing managers of MNEs with backward and/forward supply chain linkages with BoP firms in Pakistan

Results: The study develops a measurement framework and structured questionnaire to analyze impact of sustainable/inclusive supply chain linkages as exogenous variable with the variables of subsidiary internationalization in host markets.

Implications/originality/value: The study offers implications for linking vast sector of micro and small enterprises with value chain network as economic agents of MNEs to support its innovation and market outreach strategy in a sustainable manner. Further empirical studies are needed to validate and extend the hypothesized relationships of proposed model of sustainable internationalization.
Demografía de la población de Anolis aquaticus (Sauria Polychrotidae) de la quebrada La Palma, Puriscal, Costa Rica
Authors: Marquez B. Cruz , Márquez R. Lady , Rea P. Solanda Rea P. , Márquez R. Jefferson
Published: October 2017

Se estudió la demografía de Anolis aquaticus (Taylor 1956), de la quebrada La Palma de Puriscal, Costa Rica (9º45’N, 84º27’O). Métodos de muestreos sistemáticos mensuales en captura, marcación, recaptura, registros de depredacion y reclutamiento fueron desarrollados para la estimación poblacional. Se muestra distribución en el lugar de estudio y en todo Costa Rica. La abundancia de machos, hembras y juveniles, es estacional, es mayor en la estación seca. La proporcion de sexo en la poblacion es 1:1 y se reproducen todo el año. El tamaño poblacional fluctuo entre 86 a 575 individuos por mes. En el área de 2800 m , se estimó una densidad entre 307 a 2053 anoles, equivalente a 11-73 individuos en cada 100 m 2 2 ; y en el área de 5684 m , se estimó una densidad entre 149 a 1008 individuos; correspondiente a 3-18 anoles en cada 100 m 2 , durante los meses del año. La estructura de la población es similar en machos y hembras y presenta mayor número de individuos en las categorías de tamaño grande y baja cantidad en los tamaños juveniles. Se observaron a tres especies depredando a los A. aquaticus, una de cangrejo y dos de serpientes. El reclutamiento anual es del 25-37%. Los machos son reclutados en números más altos y sobreviven más que las hembras.
Management of a Lassa fever outbreak, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany, 2016
Authors: Ehlkes Lutz , George Maja , Samosny Gerhard , Burckhardt Florian , Vogt Manfred , Bent Stefan , Jahn Klaus , Zanger Philipp
Published: October 2017

Due to rapid diagnosis and isolation of imported cases, community outbreaks of viral haemorrhagic fevers (VHF) are considered unlikely in industrialised countries. In March 2016, the first documented locally acquired case of Lassa fever (LF) outside Africa occurred, demonstrating the disease’s potential as a cross-border health threat. We describe the management surrounding this case of LF in Rhineland-Palatinate – the German federal state where secondary transmission occurred. Twelve days after having been exposed to the corpse of a LF case imported from Togo, a symptomatic undertaker tested positive for Lassa virus RNA. Potential contacts were traced, categorised based on exposure risk, and monitored. Overall, we identified 21 contact persons with legal residency in Rhineland-Palatinate: seven related to the index case, 13 to the secondary case, and one related to both. The secondary case received treatment and recovered. Five contacts were quarantined and one was temporarily banned from work. No further transmission occurred. Based on the experience gained during the outbreak and a review of national and international guidelines, we conclude that exposure risk attributable to corpses may currently be underestimated, and we present suggestions that may help to improve the anti-epidemic response to imported VHF cases in industrialised countries.
Geographical distribution and epidemiological characteristics of visceral leishmaniasis in Bulgaria, 1988 to 2012
Authors: Harizanov R , Rainova I , Tzvetkova N , Kaftandjiev I , Bikov I , Mikov O
Published: October 2017

Visceral leishmaniasis is a sporadic illness in Bulgaria. However, cases in humans are registered nearly every year. This study describes the geographical distribution of the disease in Bulgaria from 1988 to 2012, over a period of 25 years. Cases were analysed according to age, sex, and place of residence. A total of 122 cases were registered in 25 years, 118 of which were autochthonous and four of which were imported from endemic countries in southern Europe. The average annual incidence for the study period was 0.06 per 100,000 population, or an average of five cases per year (maximum 15 in 1989; no cases notified in 1991, 1995, 1996 and 2008). Cases of visceral leishmaniasis were recorded in 13 out of 28 regions in Bulgaria, mainly in the southern part of the country. The highest number of cases were registered in the regions of Blagoevgrad (n=36) and Stara Zagora (n=34). Data presented in this study show that there is ongoing transmission of visceral leishmaniasis in Bulgaria with a high mortality rate (1:7), affecting mostly children.
Autochthonous chikungunya virus transmission may have occurred in Bologna, Italy, during the summer 2007 outbreak
Authors: Seyler T , Rizzo C , Finarelli A C , Po C , Alessio P , Sambri V , Ciofi Degli Atti M L , Salmaso S
Published: October 2017

In Italy, a national surveillance system for chikungunya fever coordinated by the National Public Health Institute has been in place since August 2006. In summer 2007, an outbreak of chikungunya fever affected the Italian provinces of Ravenna, Cesena-Forli and Rimini [1-3]. As of 16 December 2007, health authorities identified 214 laboratory-confirmed cases with date of onset from 15 July to 28 September 2007. Most cases (161) occurred in the two neighbouring villages of Castiglione di Cervia and Castiglione di Ravenna, but limited local transmission also took place in the cities of Ravenna, Cesena, Cervia, and Rimini. In September 2007, two confirmed cases (two women aged 68 and 70) were reported among residents of the city of Bologna (373,026 inhabitants). Both had a history of travel in the affected areas (municipality of Cervia). No unusual increase in the density of Aedes albopictus mosquitoes in the Bologna area was noted at that time (September).
Three cases of tularaemia in southern Baden-Wuerttemberg, Germany, November 2007
Authors: Schätzle W , Schwenk R
Published: October 2017

After contact with a dead rabbit in Baden-Wuerttemberg in southern Germany, three members of a family were infected with tularaemia in late summer 2007. The patients were a forest worker (Patient A) in his twenties, and his parents, both in their fifties. Tularaemia is very rare in Germany. From 2002 to 2006, between one and five cases were reported annually, with the exception of 2005 with 15 reported cases [1]. In 2007, 19 cases were reported, 11 of them in Baden-Wuerttemberg [2]. In the district in which the three cases occurred, no tularaemia cases had been reported in recent years.
Asian tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus) - a threat for Switzerland?
Authors: Wymann M N , Flacio E , Radczuweit S , Patocchi N , Lüthy P
Published: October 2017

The Asian tiger mosquito, Aedes albopictus (Stegomya albopicta) originating from south-east Asia, has spread primarily by the trade of used tyres to the United States, Europe, Latin America and Africa [1]. In Italy, the mosquito species was first detected in Genoa in 1990 and has since spread to several parts of the country, including border areas with Switzerland [2]. In 2000, an active monitoring system was established in southern Switzerland. The first tiger mosquito was detected in the canton of Ticino in 2003 [3]. Monitoring was gradually intensified due to growing mosquito densities in northern Italy. As the long-distance migration of Ae. albopictus depends on passive transport, the monitoring system consisted of strategically positioned oviposition traps along main traffic axes, including parking lots within industrial complexes, border crossings and shopping centres. In 2007, this monitoring system consisted of over 70 checkpoints with a total of 300 traps. Bi-weekly control visits to all traps were conducted between April and November 2007. As soon as eggs were detected, the surrounding vegetation within a perimeter of about 100 metres was sprayed with permethrin against adult mosquitoes. Stagnant water was treated with Bacillus thuringiensis and in some cases with diflubenzuron to control the larval stages.
The detection of meningococcal household clusters and their prophylaxis in the changing epidemiological situation of invasive meningococcal disease in Poland, 2003-2006
Authors: Stefanoff P , Rosinska M , Karczewski G , Zielinski A
Published: October 2017

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Identification of a rabid dog in France illegally introduced from Morocco
Authors: French multidisciplinary investigation team Collective
Published: October 2017

On 26 February 2008, the National Reference Centre for Rabies at the Institut Pasteur in Paris, France, confirmed the diagnosis of rabies in a domestic dog living in Grandpuits, Seine-et-Marne district, a suburb of Paris. The dog was a nine-month-old mixed-breed female, named Cracotte (pictures available at http://www.invs.sante.fr/display/?doc=surveillance/rage/actu.htm). It developed its first symptoms on 15 February, had bitten its owner and one neighbour and had been euthanized on 19 February. The viral strain was identified by the National Reference Centre for Rabies as a strain belonging to Lyssavirus genotype 1, Africa 1 lineage, originating from Morocco. According to its owner, Cracotte had never been outside France. France has been declared officially rabies-free since 2001. An investigation was undertaken to identify the source of infection and modes of transmission for Cracotte in order to identify potentially exposed individuals and animals and to carry out an assessment of the risk of rabies virus transmission in France.
Isolation of a Vibrio parahaemolyticus pandemic strain from a marine water sample obtained in the northern Adriatic
Authors: Caburlotto G , Ghidini V , Gennari M , Tafi M C , Lleo M M
Published: October 2017

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Demographic features and trends in tuberculosis cases in the European Region, 1995-2005
Authors: Falzon D , van Cauteren D
Published: October 2017

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The added value of a European Union tuberculosis reference laboratory network – analysis of the national reference laboratory activities
Authors: Drobniewski F A , Nikolayevskyy V , Hoffner S , Pogoryelova O , Manissero D , Ozin A J
Published: October 2017

National reference laboratories (NRL) and other laboratories are the cornerstones of well-functioning tuberculosis programmes and surveillance activities. However, the scope and activity of NRL services for mycobacterial identification and drug susceptibility testing (DST) has not been examined in detail across the European Union (EU), nor has the added value of cooperation and networking at the European level been explored with regard to strengthening laboratory services. Therefore, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has commissioned a survey to explore these issues and to identify areas of work that could bring added value by supporting networking activities of tuberculosis (TB) reference laboratories in the EU. Structured questionnaires were sent to TB reference laboratory experts in the EU and European Economic Area (EEA) countries, and in three additional countries selected on the basis of their networking activities with EU projects and other initiatives (Switzerland, Croatia and Israel). The compiled results describe the activities and structure of 32 NRLs (29 countries replied, a response rate of 91%). The analysis of the survey led to the following recommendations for strengthening TB laboratory services: (1) implementing of the published European standards for TB laboratory services with respect to infrastructure, national reference functions, biosafety, human resources, quality assurance, operational research (including evaluation of new medical diagnostics), accuracy and speed, appropriately trained staff; (2) ensuring that laboratories only perform activities for which they have demonstrated proficiency; (3) implement validated and standardised second-line drug susceptibility testing (DST), including drugs used to define extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis (XDR TB); (4) aiming to identify Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) and rifampicin (RIF) resistance in over 90% of cultures and cases from smear-positive sputum directly within one to two working days. To realise some of the above recommendations and to strengthen links of TB surveillance and microbiology activities in the EU, a list of suggested generic areas of activities for an EU network of reference laboratories is presented. Such a network would build on and link to existing networks and initiatives at the European and global level.
World Health Organization reports highest rates of drug-resistant tuberculosis to date
Authors: Editorial team Collective
Published: October 2017

On 26 February 2008, the World Health Organization (WHO) published its fourth report on the global situation regarding drug resistance in tuberculosis (TB). The report, based on information collected between 2002 and 2006 on 90,000 TB patients in 81 countries, found that 5.3% of the nine million new cases of TB each year are multidrug-resistant (MDR). This is the highest rate yet recorded.
Reptile-associated salmonellosis in residents in the south east of Ireland 2005 - 2007
Authors: O'Byrne A M , Mahon M
Published: October 2017

Salmonella can be spread through contaminated food, person-to-person transmission, waterborne transmission and numerous environmental and animal exposures. Reptiles (e.g. turtles, lizards, snakes, tortoises, terrapins) serve as reservoirs of Salmonella and can shed Salmonella organisms in faecal material. Over 2,460 serotypes of Salmonella have been identified and many serotypes have been associated with reptiles.
Survey of European programmes for the epidemiological surveillance of congenital toxoplasmosis
Authors: Bénard A , Petersen E , Salamon R , Chêne G , Gilbert R , Salmi L R , for the European Toxo Prevention Study Group (EUROTOXO)
Published: October 2017

The objective of this investigation was to describe systems for the epidemiological surveillance of congenital toxoplasmosis implemented in European countries. In September 2004, a questionnaire, adapted from the evaluation criteria published by the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, was sent to a panel of national correspondents in 35 countries in the European geographical area with knowledge of the epidemiological surveillance systems implemented in their countries. Where necessary, we updated the information until July 2007. Responses were received from 28 countries. Some 16 countries reported routine surveillance for toxoplasmosis. In 12 countries (Bulgaria, Cyprus, Czech Republic, England and Wales, Estonia, Ireland, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Scotland and Slovakia), surveillance was designed to detect only symptomatic toxoplasmosis, whether congenital or not. Four countries reported surveillance of congenital toxoplasmosis, on a regional basis in Italy and on a national basis in Denmark, France and Germany. In conclusion, epidemiological surveillance of congenital toxoplasmosis needs to be improved in order to determine the true burden of disease and to assess the effectiveness of and the need for existing prevention programmes.
Falciparum malaria in a German tourist, acquired on Great Exuma, Bahamas, March 2008
Authors: Hofer A , Schmiedel S
Published: October 2017

A woman in her fifties was treated for falciparum malaria at the University Medical Centre in Hamburg, Germany in April 2008.
Waterborne outbreak of acute gastroenteritis in a costal area in Slovenia in June and July 2008
Authors: Kopilović B , Ucakar V , Koren N , Krek M , Kraigher A
Published: October 2017

In June and July 2008, an outbreak of acute gastroenteritis with a total of at least 408 cases occurred in the municipality of Piran, Slovenia. The town has 17,400 inhabitants and is located in touristic area on the Slovenian Adriatic coast. The first 20 cases were reported on 26 June to regional Institute of Public Health Koper (IPH Koper). Preliminary interviews indicated that the only common source of exposure was the local water distribution system in Piran which supplies all inhabitants of the town. IPH Koper informed the local water distribution company on the same day, and control measures for containing the outbreak were implemented immediately.
Impact of infant pneumococcal vaccination on invasive pneumococcal diseases in France, 2001-2006
Authors: Lepoutre A , Varon E , Georges S , Gutmann L , Lévy-Bruhl D
Published: October 2017

Vaccination with the 7-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV) has been recommended in France since 2003 for children under the age of two years who are at risk due to medical or living conditions. From 2006, the recommendation has been extended to all children under two years. The impact of PCV introduction on the incidence of pneumococcal meningitis and bacteraemia and on the serotype distribution in French children and other age-groups was assessed using laboratory surveillance data. The coverage with three doses of PCV was 44% in children aged 6-12 months in 2006. From 2001/2002 to 2006, the incidence of pneumococcal meningitis decreased from 8.0 to 6.0 cases per 100,000, and the incidence of pneumococcal bacteraemia decreased from 21.8 to 17.5 cases per 100,000 in children under the age of two years. For the vaccine strains, the incidence of pneumococcal meningitis and bacteraemia decreased from 20,4 to 6.0 cases per 100,000, while the incidence of pneumococcal meningitis and bacteraemia due to non-vaccine strains increased from 9.4 to 17.5 cases per 100,000 in this time period. The incidence in older children and adults did not decrease. Further expansion of PCV coverage is expected to increase the impact of the vaccination in both children and adults. However, the fact that cases caused by vaccine serotypes have been partially substituted by cases of non-vaccine serotypes is likely to reduce the overall benefit of PCV in France, should this early observation be confirmed in the future.
Distribution and antimicrobial susceptibility patterns of Clostridium difficile PCR ribotypes in English hospitals, 2007-08
Authors: Brazier J  S , Raybould R , Patel B , Duckworth G , Pearson A , Charlett A , Duerden B I , the HPA Regional Microbiology Network Collective
Published: October 2017

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First human case of West Nile virus neuroinvasive infection in Italy, September 2008 – case report
Authors: Rossini G , Cavrini F , Pierro A , Macini P , Finarelli A C , Po C , Peroni G , Di Caro A , Capobianchi M R , Nicoletti L , Landini M P , Sambri V
Published: October 2017

On 20 September 2008, the laboratory of the Regional Reference Centre for Microbiological Emergencies (Centro di Riferimento Regionale per le Emergenze Microbiologiche, CRREM) in Bologna, reported the detection of specific IgM and IgG antibodies against West Nile virus (WNV) in the serum of a female patient in her eighties who lived in a rural area between Ferrara and Bologna, Italy.
Anorectal lymphogranuloma venereum: the first two confirmed cases in Portugal
Authors: Castro R , Baptista T , Vale A , Nunes H , Prieto E , Mansinho K , da Luz Martins Pereira F
Published: October 2017

We describe two cases of lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) in men who have sex with men in Portugal in 2008. These first two confirmed cases of LGV L2b proctitis in Portugal highlight the need for an enhanced surveillance programme in Portugal.
Syphilis epidemiology in Sweden: re-emergence since 2000 primarily due to spread among men who have sex with men
Authors: Velicko I , Arneborn M , Blaxhult A
Published: October 2017

Syphilis has re-emerged in western Europe since 2000. Changes in sexual behaviour have facilitated the spread of syphilis especially among men who have sex with men (MSM) and improved surveillance systems and case detection have lead to an increase in the reported numbers of cases. This report describes recent trends (2000-2007) of syphilis in Sweden, where the spread among MSM, particularly in the big cities, has been a major contributor to an increase in cases. Estimated syphilis incidence among MSM was up to twenty-eight times higher than in the general Swedish male population. The most affected age group among males was 25-44 years of age. The majority of infections in men and women through heterosexual contacts were acquired abroad whereas the majority of infections attributed to sex between men were acquired in Sweden. Appropriate prevention activities are needed to reach vulnerable populations in Sweden.
Rebound of overdose mortality in the European Union 2003-2005: findings from the 2008 EMCDDA Annual Report
Authors: Vicente J , Giraudon I , Matias J , Hedrich D , Wiessing L
Published: October 2017

Drug overdose is an important cause of death among young adults in Europe. According to data reported by Member States to the EMCDDA, many of the European Union countries reported a rebound in the numbers of overdose deaths in 2003-2005, following decreases in almost all reporting countries in previous years (2000 to 2003). Further investigations are needed in order to clarify the factor driving these increases and inform policies and interventions aimed at reducing these deaths.
Legionnaires’ disease in a neonatal unit of a private hospital, Cyprus, December 2008: preliminary outbreak report
Authors: Unit for Surveillance and Control of Communicable Diseases Collective
Published: October 2017

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Increase in invasive group A streptococcal infections in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, 2008-9
Authors: Lamagni T  L , Efstratiou A , Dennis J , Nair P , Kearney J , George R , on behalf of the national incident management team Collective
Published: October 2017

Increases in invasive and non-invasive group A streptococcal diseases are currently being seen in the United Kingdom. National enhanced surveillance is being launched to examine the clinical presentations, risk factors, outcome and clustering patterns of cases to further inform public health management strategies.