Integrative taxonomy of metazoan parasites of the bluntnose sixgill shark Hexanchus griseus (Bonnaterre, 1788) in the Mediterranean Sea, with the resurrection of Grillotia acanthoscolex Rees, 1944 (Cestoda: Trypanorhyncha)

Appropriate diagnoses of parasites of apex marine predators are crucial to understand their biodiversity, host specificity, biogeography, and life cycles. Such diagnoses are also informative of ecological and biological characteristics of both host and environment in which the hosts and their parasites live. We here (i) investigate the parasite fauna of a bluntnose sixgill shark Hexanchus griseus (Bonnaterre, 1788) obtained from the Gulf of Naples (Tyrrhenian Sea), (ii) characterize molecularly all its metazoan parasites, and (iii) resurrect and report the main morphological features and phylogenetic position of Grillotia acanthoscolex, a cestode species previously synonymized with Grillotia adenoplusia. A rich parasite fauna represented by eight different taxa was found, including two monogeneans (Protocotyle grisea and Protocotyle taschenbergi), one digenean (Otodistomum veliporum), four cestodes (Crossobothrium dohrnii, Clistobothrium sp., G. acanthoscolex, and G. adenoplusia), and one copepod (Protodactylina pamelae). Sequencing of these samples accounts for an important molecular baseline to widen the knowledge on the parasitic fauna of bluntnose sixgill sharks worldwide and to reconstruct their correct food chains. The bluntnose sixgill shark was found to be a definitive host for all endoparasites found here, confirming that it occupies an apex trophic level in the Mediterranean Sea. The taxa composition of the trophic parasite fauna confirms that the bluntnose sixgill shark mostly feeds on teleost fish species. However, the occurrence of two phillobothrid cestodes (C. dohrnii and Clistobothrium sp.) suggests that it also feeds on squids. Finally, we emphasize the importance of using integrative taxonomic approaches in the study of parasites from definitive and intermediate hosts to elucidate biology and ecology of taxa generally understudied in the Mediterranean Sea.

De novo transcriptome assembly of an Antarctic nematode for the study of thermal adaptation in marine parasites

Understanding the genomic underpinnings of thermal adaptation is a hot topic in eco-evolutionary studies of parasites. Marine heteroxenous parasites have complex life cycles encompassing a free-living larval stage, an ectothermic intermediate host and a homeothermic definitive host, thus representing compelling systems for the study of thermal adaptation. The Antarctic anisakid Contracaecum osculatum sp. D is a marine parasite able to survive and thrive both at very cold and warm temperatures within the environment and its hosts. Here, a de novo transcriptome of C. osculatum sp. D was generated for the first time, by performing RNA-Seq experiments on a set of individuals exposed to temperatures experienced by the nematode during its life cycle. The analysis generated 425,954,724 reads, which were assembled and then annotated. The high-quality assembly was validated, achieving over 88% mapping against the transcriptome. The transcriptome of this parasite will represent a valuable genomic resource for future studies aimed at disentangling the genomic architecture of thermal tolerance and metabolic pathways related to temperature stress.

An update and ecological perspective on certain sentinel helminth endoparasites within the Mediterranean Sea

The Mediterranean Sea is recognized as a marine biodiversity hotspot. This enclosed basin is facing several anthropogenic-driven threats, such as seawater warming, pollution, overfishing, bycatch, intense maritime transport and invasion by alien species. The present review focuses on the diversity and ecology of specific marine trophically transmitted helminth endoparasites (TTHs) of the Mediterranean ecosystems, aiming to elucidate their potential effectiveness as ‘sentinels’ of anthropogenic disturbances in the marine environment. The chosen TTHs comprise cestodes and nematodes sharing complex life cycles, involving organisms from coastal and marine mid/upper-trophic levels as definitive hosts. Anthropogenic disturbances directly impacting the free-living stages of the parasites and their host population demographies can significantly alter the distribution, infection levels and intraspecific genetic variability of these TTHs. Estimating these parameters in TTHs can provide valuable information to assess the stability of marine trophic food webs. Changes in the distribution of particular TTHs species can also serve as indicators of sea temperature variations in the Mediterranean Sea, as well as the bioaccumulation of pollutants. The contribution of the chosen TTHs to monitor anthropogenic-driven changes in the Mediterranean Sea, using their measurable attributes at both spatial and temporal scales, is proposed.

Black spot diseases in seven commercial fish species from the English Channel and the North Sea: infestation levels, identification and population genetics of Cryptocotyle spp

Fish are often speckled with "black spots" caused by metacercarial trematode infection, inducing a host response. Cryptocotyle spp. (Opisthorchiidae) are among the parasites responsible for this phenomenon. So far, the impact on human health is still unknown. In addition, few publications dealing with black spot recovery, identification, distribution and diversity among commercially important fish are available. Moreover, "black spots" have been observed by fishermen on marine fish, revealing an appreciable but unquantified presence in consumed fish. An epidemiological survey of 1,586 fish from seven commercial species (herring, sprat, whiting, pout, dab, flounder, and plaice) was conducted in the Eastern English Channel and the North Sea in January 2019 and 2020. Encysted metacercariae were found in 325 out of 1,586 fish, with a total prevalence of 20.5%. Intensity of infection varied from 1 to 1,104 parasites. The recorded encysted metacercariae were identified either by microscopic examination or with molecular tools. Partial sequences of the mtDNA cox1 gene and of the rDNA ITS region were obtained. Two species of Cryptocotyle, Cryptocotyle lingua (Creplin, 1825) and Cryptocotyle concava (Creplin, 1825) were found. Metacercariae belonging to other trematode families were also identified. Molecular phylogenetic analysis and haplotype network construction were performed to confirm the identification and to study the potential presence of different populations of Cryptocotyle spp. This survey enabled us to describe the distribution of two species of Cryptocotyle in the English Channel and North Sea ecosystems. The observed differences in infestation levels between fish species and geographical areas will contribute to better understanding of the ecology of these parasites.

Basophil Activation Test in the Diagnosis of Anisakis Allergy: An Observational Study from an Area of High Seafood Consumption in Italy

The rising popularity of undercooked or raw seafood containing larvae of the Anisakis parasite has led to issues of public health concern due to allergic manifestations. We conducted an observational study on the use of an innovative Anisakis allergy diagnostic algorithm in a convenience sample of 53 allergic outpatients recruited in Western Sicily, between April 2021 and March 2022. We included individuals with an anamnesis suggestive of IgE sensitization to Anisakis reporting clinical manifestation in the last month due to allergic reactions after eating fresh fish, or in subjects at high exposure risk with sea products while abstaining from fish ingestion, excluding those with documented fish sensitization. Outpatients were tested via Skin Prick Test, IgE-specific dosage and Basophil Activation Test (BAT). Twenty-six outpatients were diagnosed with Anisakis, while 27 with Chronic Urticaria (CU). We found a seven-fold excess risk for Anisakis (p4) positivity in the Anisakis allergic outpatients, as compared to the CU ones. BAT showed the best diagnostic accuracy (92.45%) and specificity (100%), while specific IgE to Ascaris (p1) documented the best sensitivity (92.31%) but a very low specificity (37.04%). In conclusion, our findings may represent a potentially useful contribution to the future development of updated clinical guidelines.

The Current State of Knowledge on Parasitic Copepods (Siphonostomatoida: Pandaridae) of Elasmobranchs

Elasmobranch fishes comprise sharks and sawfish (infraclass Selachii), and rays, skates, and stingrays (infraclass Batoidea). Many elasmobranch species are popular fish exhibited in zoos and public aquariums. They may serve as hosts for a great variety of parasites. Among these, parasitic copepods are commonly known to cause serious damage to their hosts. In this paper, we summarize and analyse the existing literature on the pandarid copepods (Siphonostomatoida Burmeister, 1835) of elasmobranch fishes, as it relates to their diversity, life cycles, host-specificity, biogeography, pathology, and available treatments.

Proteomic characterization of extracellular vesicles released by third stage larvae of the zoonotic parasite Anisakis pegreffii (Nematoda: Anisakidae)

Introduction

Anisakis pegreffii is a sibling species within the A. simplex (s.l.) complex requiring marine homeothermic (mainly cetaceans) and heterothermic (crustaceans, fish, and cephalopods) organisms to complete its life cycle. It is also a zoonotic species, able to accidentally infect humans (anisakiasis). To investigate the molecular signals involved in this host-parasite interaction and pathogenesis, the proteomic composition of the extracellular vesicles (EVs) released by the third-stage larvae (L3) of A. pegreffii, was characterized.

Methods

Genetically identified L3 of A. pegreffii were maintained for 24 h at 37°C and EVs were isolated by serial centrifugation and ultracentrifugation of culture media. Proteomic analysis was performed by Shotgun Analysis.

Results and discussion

EVs showed spherical shaped structure (size 65-295 nm). Proteomic results were blasted against the A. pegreffii specific transcriptomic database, and 153 unique proteins were identified. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analysis predicted several proteins belonging to distinct metabolic pathways. The similarity search employing selected parasitic nematodes database revealed that proteins associated with A. pegreffii EVs might be involved in parasite survival and adaptation, as well as in pathogenic processes. Further, a possible link between the A. pegreffii EVs proteins versus those of human and cetaceans’ hosts, were predicted by using HPIDB database. The results, herein described, expand knowledge concerning the proteins possibly implied in the host-parasite interactions between this parasite and its natural and accidental hosts.

Genetic diversity of Contracaecum rudolphii sp. A (Nematoda: Anisakidae) parasitizing the European Shag Phalacrocorax aristotelis desmarestii from the Spanish Mediterranean coast

Sibling species of the Contracaecum rudolphii (s.l.) complex are habitual endoparasites of cormorants of the Phalacrocoracidae family, worldwide. In Europe, the two species, C. rudolphii sp. A and C. rudolphii sp. B, have been identified. However, information regarding the occurrence and distribution of these anisakids in cormorants from Spain is scarce. In the present study, 20 specimens of the European Shag, Ph. aristotelis desmarestii, from the western Mediterranean Spanish marine coast were parasitologically analyzed for the presence of nematodes. All hosts were found parasitized with Contracaecum specimens (n = 1,517). A representative subsample was genetically identified as C. rudolphii sp. A by sequence analysis of the mtDNA cox2 gene and the ITS1 and ITS2 regions of the rDNA. This represents the first report of C. rudolphii sp. A from the Spanish Mediterranean waters. Population genetic analysis was performed including other C. rudolphii sp. A specimens from the west Sardinian and the Tyrrhenian Sea. At the intraspecific level, a significant genetic differentiation (Fst ≈ 0.08, p < 0.00001) between the metapopulation from the Spanish Mediterranean coast and that from the Sardinian waters was observed; whereas, no differentiation was found between metapopulations of the parasite from the Spanish and the Tyrrhenian Italian coast. The findings highly support the hypothesis of the adaptation of the life cycle of C. rudolphii sp. A in brackish and marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the results on the population genetics of C. rudolphii sp. A suggest the possible role of the migration routes of wintering populations of cormorants in the Mediterranean Sea in influencing the parasite genetic structure.

Parasites and prey of the nursehound shark Scyliorhinus stellaris (Linnaeus, 1758): Insights into hidden trophic web interactions in the Mediterranean Sea

The metazoan parasite community and the stomach contents of the nursehound shark Scyliorhinus stellaris from the Gulf of Naples (central Mediterranean Sea) were studied. The nursehound shark harboured a poor parasite community composed of a species of gill monogenean (Hexabothrium appendiculatum) and three intestinal cestode taxa (Acanthobothrium coronatum and two unidentified species of the genera Yamaguticestus and Scyphophyllidium), all represented by adult stages. Hosts were mostly parasitized by individuals of A. coronatum, which was the most abundant species and contributed to almost 80% of the total number of parasites found. Conversely, other trophically transmitted parasites (i.e., Yamaguticestus sp. and Scyphophyllidium sp.) showed low prevalence and abundance. The parasite infracommunity was poor, showing low values of species richness, total mean abundance, and diversity indices. Overall, 52 prey items belonging to 13 taxa were identified in the stomach contents. Cephalopods were the most important prey items (represented by nine taxa) and the most diverse and abundant group. In the multivariate space provided by a principal component of mixed data (PCAmix), nursehound sharks distributed along two main axes, related to individual traits (first axis) and stomach contents (including empty ones, second axis). A logistic regression based on the first two axes of the PCAmix showed a significant influence of host individual traits and, to a lesser extent, of stomach contents, regarding the probability of being infected by A. coronatum. Alongside specific traits already associated with parasites transmission, our results highlight the importance of cephalopods in transferring cestode infections through trophic web interactions in the top-predator nursehound shark.

Ascaridoid parasites in European sardine throughout the annual cycle: Variability in parasitic load according to host stock features

In recent years, a drop in the condition of the European sardine has been observed. Although several causes have been attributed to this issue, as overfishing and climate change, little is known about the link between ascaridoid nematode parasitisation and fish status. In this study, sardines were obtained from four fishing grounds along the Mediterranean (Alboran, Northern Spain, Northern Adriatic, and Aegean), and one location in the Atlantic Ocean (Southern Portugal). After analysing individual fish body condition (by direct tissue fat content measurements and condition indices), and reproductive status (by a detailed gonadal examination) throughout the entire annual cycle, ascaridoids were recognised by combining naked eye and UV-press method along flesh, viscera, and gonads. Afterwards, sequence analysis of the rDNA internal transcribed spacers region (ITS) and the mtDNA cox2 gene were used to identify and characterise the different species of ascaridoids from the fish host in the localities throughout the seasons. The main species found along different areas was Hysterothylacium aduncum, present in the Northern Adriatic (prevalence of 7.6%, mean intensity 1.700), the Atlantic (7.5%, 3.889), and the Northern Spain (3.9%, 1.600). Moreover, few individuals of Anisakis simplex (s.s.) and A. pegreffii were observed in the Atlantic (1.7% and 0.8%, respectively), and the latter species was also found in the Adriatic stock (0.8%). All ascaridoid specimens were found in viscera. Obtained results seem to indicate that in stocks with medium sizes, small variations in length are related to parasite intensity. This study highlights the importance of seasonal parasitological analyses at stock level and, especially, in capital breeders, as relationships between condition and reproduction parameters and parasitism are conditioned by seasonality.

Anisakid nematodes in Trichiurus lepturus and Saurida undosquamis (Teleostea) from the South-West Indian Ocean: Genetic evidence for the existence of sister species within Anisakis typica (s.l.), and food-safety considerations

Nematode parasites of the genus Anisakis (Nematoda, Anisakidae) are considered among the most important biological hazards in seafood products worldwide. In temperate and tropical waters, the most common species appears to be Anisakis typica, generally found around the viscera and sporadically in the flesh of various fish host species. This study investigated the infection sites and genetic diversity of A. typica infecting commercial fishes from the South-West Indian Ocean. Largehead hairtail (N = 20) and brushtooth lizardfish (N = 72) fished off Tanzania were inspected for anisakid nematodes by UV-press. A subsample of 168 nematodes were identified by sequence analyses of the cox2 mtDNA gene and ITS region of rDNA. The species A. typica (s.l.) (N = 166), Pseudoterranova ceticola (N = 1) and Anisakis paggiae (N = 1) were molecularly identified. Phylogenetic analysis of A. typica (s.l.) sequences based on both genes, indicated the existence of two distinct phylogenetic lineages forming two well-supported clades. The first clade comprised 12 A. typica specimens including individuals from its type locality (central Atlantic Ocean). The second clade comprising 154 specimens, clustered with reference sequences retrieved from GenBank including one apparently undescribed taxon, i.e., Anisakis sp. 1, and A. typica var. indonesiensis. The two reciprocally monophyletic clades are closely related and correspond to two distinct sister species within A. typica (s.l.), presently indicated as A. typica sp. A and A. typica sp. B. Two and four fixed alternative nucleotide substitutions (SNPs), i.e., diagnostic positions, between the two taxa, respectively, were found at the mtDNA cox2 and the ITS region of rDNA. The genetic data, as well as their occurrence in sympatry, strengthens the hypothesis that the actual specimens represent two distinct gene pools. The occurrence of both A. typica sp. A and A. typica sp. B in the musculature of freshly examined T. lepturus and S. undosquamis, suggests that both species can migrate intra-vitam into the flesh. Although the zoonotic potential of A. typica s.l. is still unclear, the presence of these parasites in the musculature, edible part of the fish, raises health concerns for consumers.

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Phylogenetic analyses suggest the existence of two sister species within A. typica (s.l.).

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typica sp. A and sp. B can both migrate intra-vitam into the fish flesh.

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Occurrence of A. typica (s.l.) larvae in the fish flesh may raise food safety concerns.

Distribution and genetic diversity of Anisakis spp. in cetaceans from the Northeast Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea

Parasite biodiversity in cetaceans represents a neglected component of the marine ecosystem. This study aimed to investigate the distribution and genetic diversity of anisakid nematodes of the genus Anisakis sampled in cetaceans from the Northeast Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. A total of 478 adults and pre-adults of Anisakis spp. was identified by a multilocus genetic approach (mtDNA cox2, EF1 α − 1 nDNA and nas 10 nDNA gene loci) from 11 cetacean species. A clear pattern of host preference was observed for Anisakis spp. at cetacean family level: A. simplex (s.s.) and A. pegreffii infected mainly delphinids; A. physeteris and A. brevispiculata were present only in physeterids, and A. ziphidarum occurred in ziphiids. The role of cetacean host populations from different waters in shaping the population genetic structure of A. simplex (s.s.), A. pegreffii and A. physeteris was investigated for the first time. Significant genetic sub-structuring was found in A. simplex (s.s.) populations of the Norwegian Sea and the North Sea compared to those of the Iberian Atlantic, as well as in A. pegreffii populations of the Adriatic and the Tyrrhenian Seas compared to those of the Iberian Atlantic waters. Substantial genetic homogeneity was detected in the Mediterranean Sea population of A. physeteris. This study highlights a strong preference by some Anisakis spp. for certain cetacean species or families. Information about anisakid biodiversity in their cetacean definitive hosts, which are apex predators of marine ecosystems, acquires particular importance for conservation measures in the context of global climate change phenomena.

De novo transcriptome assembly and annotation of the third stage larvae of the zoonotic parasite Anisakis pegreffii

OBJECTIVES

Anisakis pegreffii is a zoonotic parasite requiring marine organisms to complete its life-history. Human infection (anisakiasis) occurs when the third stage larvae (L3) are accidentally ingested with raw or undercooked infected fish or squids. A new de novo transcriptome of A. pegreffii was here generated aiming to provide a robust bulk of data to be used for a comprehensive "ready-to-use" resource for detecting functional studies on genes and gene products of A. pegreffii involved in the molecular mechanisms of parasite-host interaction.

DATA DESCRIPTION

A RNA-seq library of A. pegreffii L3 was here newly generated by using Illumina TruSeq platform. It was combined with other five RNA-seq datasets previously gathered from L3 of the same species stored in SRA of NCBI. The final dataset was analyzed by launching three assembler programs and two validation tools. The use of a robust pipeline produced a high-confidence protein-coding transcriptome of A. pegreffii. These data represent a more robust and complete transcriptome of this species with respect to the actually existing resources. This is of importance for understanding the involved adaptive and immunomodulatory genes implicated in the "cross talk" between the parasite and its hosts, including the accidental one (humans).

Integrative Taxonomy Reveals Molicola uncinatus and Gymnorhynchus gigas (Cestoda: Trypanorhyncha) Coinfection in the Atlantic Pomfret Brama brama From the Mediterranean Sea, With Notes on the Phylogenetic Position of G. gigas Within the Family Gymnorhynchidae

The cestode family Gymnorhynchidae Dollfus, 1935 (Trypanorhyncha) comprises three genera and six valid species that are typically intestinal parasites of large pelagic sharks. Members of Gymnorhynchidae show a wide geographic distribution and represent a global sanitary concern because as larvae they infect the edible flesh of several commercially important fishes with some species having allergenic potential. Larval Gymnorhynchidae collected from the muscles of the Atlantic pomfret Brama brama from various localities in the Mediterranean Sea were identified and characterized by combining traditional morphology, scanning electronic microscopy, and molecular analyses using newly generated nuclear 18S and 28S rRNA sequences. Overall, 98 larvae were collected from 20 (100%) Atlantic pomfrets (intensity of infection: 4.9; range: 1–12). High-quality sequences were obtained for 54 larvae. Of these, 11 and 43 larvae were identified as Molicola uncinatus and Gymnorhynchus gigas, respectively. The phylogenetic analysis showed the existence of three main clades within Gymnorhynchidae. The first included species of G. gigas and M. uncinatus from the Mediterranean and Atlantic; the second and third major clades included an unidentified species of Molicola from the Indian Ocean and specimens of Gymnorhynchus isuri from the Mediterranean and Atlantic, respectively. Finally, Chimaerarhynchus rougetae was the basal and most diverging taxon. The phylogenetic analysis suggested that G. gigas is more closely related to the members of Molicola. We demonstrated the coinfection of M. uncinatus and G. gigas from all localities studied and extended the intermediate hosts and geographical range of M. uncinatus by including the Atlantic pomfret and the Tyrrhenian and Ionian Seas, respectively. The present results supported the previous proposal that G. gigas and Molicola species should be included in the same genus. Our study demonstrated the usefulness of the integrative taxonomy for the unequivocal recognition of larval trypanorhynch species, resolving the current difficulties in the taxonomy, and elucidating the poorly known ecological and biological aspects of members of Gymnorhynchidae.

Drivers of parasite communities in three sympatric benthic sharks in the Gulf of Naples (central Mediterranean Sea)

Sharks play a key role in the functioning of marine ecosystems and maintenance of trophic web balance, including life cycles of parasites co-occurring in their habitats. We investigated the structure of parasite communities of three sympatric shark species (Etmopterus spinax, Galeus melastomus, and Scyliorhinus canicula) and explored both the influence of host features in shaping the communities and their role as biological indicators of environment stability in the Gulf of Naples (central Mediterranean Sea), a geographical area characterized by strong anthropic pressure. Parasites found were all trophic transmitted helminths with a complex life cycle, except Lernaeopoda galei, that is a ecto-parasite copepod. Communities were all similarly impoverished with 4–5 component species and low values of species richness and diversity. Higher abundance of cestode larvae of the genus Grillotia was found in G. melastomus, although their dominance in all host species suggests that the three sharks have a similar role as intermediate/paratenic hosts in local food webs. Similarly, high abundance of Grillotia larvae could also suggest the occurrence of high abundance of largest top predators in the area. Host morphological (fork length in S. canicula and G. melastomus and body condition index in G. melastomus) and physiological (sex and gonadosomatic and hepatosomatic indices in S. canicula) variables were differently correlated to parasite community structures depending by host species. Potential reasons for the present impoverished parasite communities are discussed.

Ascaridoid nematodes infecting commercially important marine fish and squid species from Bangladesh waters in the Bay of Bengal

Parasitic ascaridoid nematodes occur in a wide range of marine organisms across the globe. Some species of the anisakid family (Ascaridoidea: Anisakidae) can cause gastrointestinal disease in humans (i. e. anisakidosis). Despite their importance as potentially hazardous parasites, the occurrence and infection characteristics of ascaridoids are still poorly known from many host species and geographical areas. This study investigated the diversity and infection levels of ascaridoid parasites in various commercial fish and squid host species off Bangladesh. Fish and squid specimens were visually inspected for nematodes using the UV-press method. Nematodes were assigned to genus level based on morphology and identified by sequence analyses of the entire ITS region and partial 28S rDNA and mtDNA cox2 genes. Third-stage larvae (L3) of Anisakis typica occurred at low prevalence (P = 10% and 8%, respectively) in the viscera of Selar crumenophthalmus and Trichiurus lepturus, while Hysterothylacium amoyense occurred in the viscera of Sardinella fimbriata (P = 1%) and the viscera and muscle of Harpadon nehereus (P = 32%) and T. lepturus (P = 76%). Lappetascaris sp. Type A L3 occurred in the mantle of the squid Uroteuthis duvaucelii (P = 11%). Anisakis and Lappetascaris species, and H. amoyense were firstly identified in the Bay of Bengal. The potentially zoonotic A. typica was only found in fish viscera. Hysterothylacium amoyense and Lappetascaris sp., both generally regarded as non-zoonotic, occurred at low prevalence in the muscle or mantle of fish or squid, respectively. Since consumption of raw or lightly processed seafood seems to be rare in Bangladesh, the risk of acquiring anisakidosis from consuming fishery products from off Bangladesh appears to be low. Due to its reddish appearance, the visual presence of H. amoyense larvae in fish flesh may represent a food quality issue.

A molecular and ecological study of Grillotia (Cestoda: Trypanorhyncha) larval infection in small to mid-sized benthonic sharks in the Gulf of Naples, Mediterranean Sea

AIM

Trypanorhyncha cestodes comprise a wide range of heteroxenous parasites infecting elasmobranchs as definitive hosts. Limited data exist on the larval infection of these cestodes and the role of intermediate and paratenic hosts in the life cycle of these parasites. We investigated the factors that determine the occurrence and the level of infection of Grillotia plerocerci in the skeletal muscles of various benthonic sharks and analyzed the parasites through an integrative taxonomic approach.

LOCATION

Mediterranean Sea.

METHODS

Sharks obtained as bycatch of commercial trawling activities (i.e., Etmopterus spinax, Galeus melastomus, and Scyliorhinus canicula) were used in this study. Data from a limited number of Dalatias licha and Scyliorhinus stellaris were also included. Grillotia plerocerci were molecularly characterized using the partial 28S large subunit rDNA. Boosted regression trees were used to model the relationship between the abundance of infection with both morphological and physiological predictors in each host.

RESULTS

Plerocerci of Grillotia were detected in all shark species except S. stellaris. Host species significantly differed in terms of parasite abundance, with the highest and lowest prevalence and abundance of infection detected in G. melastomus and E. spinax, respectively. The relative influence of the traits involved in explaining the parasite abundance was related to the host size in G. melastomus, while both morphology- and physiology-related traits explained the patterns observed in E. spinax and S. canicula. The 28S rDNA sequences shared an identity of ∼99.40% with a Grillotia species previously found in the Mediterranean Sea. At intraspecific level, two different genotypes were found. A first type was retrieved only from D. licha, whereas a second type was found in G. melastomus, E. spinax, and S. canicula.

MAIN CONCLUSIONS

Present results suggest that the two genotypes could be involved in different consumer-resource systems and confirm most of the examined shark species as transport hosts of Grillotia species for unknown larger top predators.

Molecular and morphological characterization of Bolbosoma balaenae (Acanthocephala: Polymorphidae), a neglected intestinal parasite of the fin whale Balaenoptera physalus

Post-mortem examination of a fin whale Balaenoptera physalus stranded in the Mediterranean Sea led to the finding of Bolbosoma balaenae for the first time in this basin. In this work, we describe new structural characteristics of this parasite using light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy approaches. Moreover, the molecular and phylogenetic data as inferred from both ribosomal RNA 18S-28S and the mitochondrial DNA cytochrome oxidase c subunit 1 (cox1) for adult specimens of B. balaenae are also reported for the first time. Details of the surface topography such as proboscis's hooks, trunked trunk spines of the prebulbar foretrunk, ultrastructure of proboscis's hooks and micropores of the tegument are shown. The 18S + 28S rRNA Bayesian tree (BI) as inferred from the phylogenetic analysis showed poorly resolved relationships among the species of Bolbosoma. In contrast, the combined 18S + 28S + mtDNA cox1 BI tree topology showed that the present sequences clustered with the species of Bolbosoma in a well-supported clade. The comparison of cox1 and 18S sequences revealed that the present specimens are conspecific with the cystacanths of B. balaenae previously collected in the euphausiid Nyctiphanes couchii from the North Eastern Atlantic Ocean. This study provided taxonomic, molecular and phylogenetic data that allow for a better characterization of this poor known parasite.

Investigating the genetic structure of the parasites Anisakis pegreffii and A. berlandi (Nematoda: Anisakidae) in a sympatric area of the southern Pacific Ocean waters using a multilocus genotyping approach: first evidence of their interspecific hybridization

The southern Pacific Ocean, off the New Zealand coast, has been reported as one sympatric area of the two parasite species Anisakis pegreffii and A. berlandi. Here, a multilocus genotyping approach, based on a panel of eleven DNA microsatellite (SSR) loci plus the sequences analysis of the nuclear nas10 nDNA and the mitochondrial mtDNA cox2 gene loci, was applied to a total of N = 344 adults and larvae of Anisakis spp. from cetacean and fish species, respectively. Out of the newly scored SSR loci, Anisl 15 and Anisl 2 showed fixed alternative alleles between A. pegreffii and A. berlandi resulting as 100% diagnostic loci. Out of SSRs Anisl 00314 and Anisl 7 previously disclosed, two additional loci, i.e., Anisl 4 and Anisl 22, were found to be sex-linked. The Bayesian genotypes clustering approach (STRUCTURE) allowed identification, with a 100% of probability value, N = 208 specimens to the "pure parental" A. pegreffii, N = 133 to the "pure parental" A. berlandi, while one adult and two larval stages showed mixed ancestry between the two groups having, in all cases, a Q-value = 0.50. NEWHYBRIDS analysis assigned (100% of probability) those specimens to their F1 hybrid category. This represents the first evidence of contemporary hybridization between the two parasite species in a sympatric area. The pairwise F_ST values estimated at intraspecific and interspecific level, inferred from both SSR loci and mitochondrial mtDNA cox2 sequences, have also demonstrated the existence of two distinct panmictic units in this study area, corresponding respectively to A. pegreffii and A. berlandi. The results obtained support the useful application of a multilocus approach in the identification of sibling species and their hybrid categories in sympatric areas. The possible use of sex-linked SSR loci of the two species of the A. simplex (s. l.), for sex determination of their larval stages, is also suggested.

Insights into the role of deep-sea squids of the genus Histioteuthis (Histioteuthidae) in the life cycle of ascaridoid parasites in the Central Mediterranean Sea waters

Ascaridoid nematodes comprise a wide range of heteroxenous parasites infecting top fish predators and marine mammals as definitive hosts, with crustaceans, squids, and fishes acting as intermediate/paratenic hosts. Limited data exist on the species and role of several intermediate and paratenic hosts in the life cycle of these parasites. In the aim of adding knowledge on the role of squid species in their life cycle, we have here investigated the larval ascaridoid nematodes collected from the deep-sea umbrella squid Histioteuthis bonnelli and the reverse jewel squid Histioteuthis reversa captured in the Central Mediterranean Sea (Tyrrhenian Sea). Morphological study and sequence analysis of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions of the ribosomal DNA (rDNA) and the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 2 (mtDNA cox2) gene locus revealed the occurrence of Anisakis physeteris and of an unidentified species of the genus Lappetascaris. Sequence analysis revealed that specimens of Lappetascaris from both squid species matched at 100% sequences previously deposited in GenBank from larval ascaridoids collected in octopuses of the genus Eledone of the Mediterranean Sea. The Bayesian inference tree topology obtained from the analysis of the fragments amplified showed that Lappetascaris specimens were included in a major clade comprising Hysterothylacium species collected in fishes of the families Xiphiidae and Istiophoridae. As regards the site of infection in the squid host species, A. physeteris larvae predominated (60.7%) in the gonads, while those of Lappetascaris (76.3%) were found infecting the mantle musculature. The overall high values of parasitic load suggest both squid species as transmitting hosts of third stage larvae of Lappetascaris to top predator fishes, as well as the umbrella squid as an intermediate/paratenic host in the life cycle of A. physeteris in the Mediterranean Sea.

Genetic identification of Anisakis spp. (Nematoda: Anisakidae) from cetaceans of the Southwestern Atlantic Ocean: ecological and zoogeographical implications

Adult Anisakis Dujardin, 1845 were found in two specimens of killer whale Orcinus orca and one specimen of franciscana Pontoporia blainvillei stranded from off the coast of Buenos Aires Province, Argentina. Genetic identification of the nematodes (N = 144) was performed by sequence analysis of the mitochondrial (mtDNA cox2) and the nuclear (nas 10 nDNA) gene loci. Anisakis pegreffii and Anisakis berlandi were detected in the two individuals of O. orca, while Anisakis typica and A. pegreffii were identified in P. blainvillei. Morphological and morphometric analysis also carried out on adult specimens of A. pegreffii and A. berlandi has allowed to underlining the usefulness of genetic/molecular markers in their recognition. This represents the first record of A. pegreffii in O. orca and P. blainvillei and of A. berlandi in O. orca. This is also the first sympatric and syntopic occurrence, as adults, of A. pegreffii and A. berlandi from the Austral Region of the Atlantic Ocean waters. These results provide insights into the knowledge of the host ranges and geographical distribution of these parasites in the basin waters of the region. Pontoporia blainvillei showed low abundance values of infection with Anisakis spp., which is the general pattern for coastal dolphins in the area, whereas O. orca harboured higher abundance of Anisakis spp. than those previously recorded among cetacean species in the Argentine Sea. Differences in the Anisakis spp. distribution and their parasitic loads, observed among the three host specimens, are discussed in relation to the oceanographic parameters, as well as to the host ecology. The usefulness of genetic/molecular markers in the recognition of adults of the sibling species A. pegreffii and A. berlandi with considerable overlapping in morphometric and morphological characters was underlined. The distribution of Anisakis species from Southwestern Atlantic waters is discussed in relation to their value as indicators for studies on the zoogeography of their hosts at a regional-scale level.

Anisakis simplex (s.s.) larvae (Nematoda: Anisakidae) hidden in the mantle of European flying squid Todarodes sagittatus (Cephalopoda: Ommastrephidae) in NE Atlantic Ocean: Food safety implications

Few reports exist upon the occurrence and localization of zoonotic anisakid nematodes in T. sagittatus, especially in the mantle of the squid. The occurrence and site of infection of larval anisakids in 98 T. sagittatus caught West off St. Kilda, NE Atlantic Ocean, were investigated. Squids were examined for anisakids using the UV-Press method. In total, 689 nematodes were detected in the viscera and mantle. According to morphology, all the larvae (L₃) were assigned to genus Anisakis. Diagnostic allozymes and mtDNA cox2 sequence analysis permitted to genetically identify all larvae as Anisakis simplex (s.s.) (N = 100). Overall prevalence (P = 81%) and mean intensity (mI = 8.6) of infection with A. simplex are provided. Most of the larvae present in the mantle cavity were embedded in the stomach wall or attached in the outer layer of the stomach and caecum (49%). Over a third of squids (37%) hosted A. simplex (s.s.) larvae in the mantle. A novel schematized representation of larvae distribution in the mantle is provided, showing where they were mostly located. According to the results obtained, the risk of anisakiasis associated with consumption of raw or undercooked T. sagittatus should be considered.

Molecular Identification of Zoonotic Parasites of the Genus Anisakis (Nematoda: Anisakidae) from Fish of the Southeastern Pacific Ocean (Off Peru Coast)

The study aims to perform, for the first time, the molecular identification of anisakid larvae in commercial fish from the Southeastern Pacific Ocean off the Peru coast, and to provide data on their infection level by fishing ground, fish host, and site of infection. Fish specimens (N = 348) from the northern and the central coast of Peru were examined for parasites. The fish fillets were examined by the UV-press method. Anisakis spp. larvae (N = 305) were identified by mtDNA cox2 sequences analysis and by the ARMS-PCR of the locus nas10 nDNA. Two hundred and eighty-eight Anisakis Type I larvae corresponded to Anisakis pegreffii, whereas 17 Anisakis Type II larvae clustered in a phylogenetic lineage distinct from Anisakis physeteris deposited in GenBank, and corresponding to a phylogenetic lineage indicated as Anisakis sp. 2, previously detected in fish from both Pacific and Atlantic waters. Anisakis pegreffii was found to infect both the flesh and viscera, while Anisakis sp. 2 occurred only in the viscera. The average parasitic burden with A. pegreffii in the examined fish species from the two fishing grounds was significantly higher than that observed with Anisakis sp. 2. The results obtained contribute to improve the knowledge on the distribution and occurrence of Anisakis species in Southeastern Pacific waters and their implications in seafood safety for the local human populations.

New Parasite Records for the Sunfish Mola mola in the Mediterranean Sea and Their Potential Use as Biological Tags for Long-Distance Host Migration

Studies describing the parasite fauna of sunfish species from the Mediterranean Sea are to date limited, despite information gained through parasitological examination may reveal unknown ecological and biological aspects of both hosts and parasites. Moreover, recent molecular studies on sunfish taxonomy revealed the presence of two species belonging to the genus Mola in the Mediterranean basin, namely M. mola and M. alexandrini. These two fish taxa have long been synonymized or confused among them, which implies that the majority of the studies carried out so far reported the parasites infecting both species under a single host species, generally referred to as M. mola. We hereby investigated the parasite fauna of a 43 cm long M. mola specimen from the Mediterranean Sea, whose identification was confirmed by molecular tool, and provided the first evidence of the occurrence of the nematode Anisakis simplex (s.s.) and of the cestode Gymnorhynchus isuri in Mola species anywhere. The use of helminth species as biological tags for the sunfish is also discussed.

A novel nuclear marker and development of an ARMS-PCR assay targeting the metallopeptidase 10 (nas 10) locus to identify the species of the Anisakis simplex (s. l.) complex (Nematoda, Anisakidae)

The genus Anisakis represents one of the most widespread groups of ascaridoid nematodes in the marine ecosystem. Three closely related taxa are recognized in the Anisakis simplex (s. l.) complex: A. pegreffii, A. simplex (s. s.) and A. berlandi. They are widely distributed in populations of their intermediate/paratenic hosts (fish and squids) and definitive hosts (cetaceans). A novel nuclear gene locus, metallopeptidase 10 (nas 10) (451 bp), was sequenced and validated on a total of 219 specimens of the three species of Anisakis, collected in fish and cetacean hosts from allopatric areas included in their ranges of distribution. The specimens of Anisakis were first identified by allozymes and sequence analysis of the mtDNA cox2 and EF1α-1 nDNA. The novel nuclear marker has shown fixed alternative nucleotide positions in the three species, i.e. diagnostic at 100%, permitting the species determination of a large number of specimens analyzed in the present study. In addition, primers to be used for amplification-refractory mutation system (ARMS) PCR of the same gene locus were designed at these nucleotide positions. Thus, direct genotyping determination, by double ARMS, was developed and validated on 219 specimens belonging to the three species. Complete concordance was observed between the tetra-primer ARMS-PCR assays and direct sequencing results obtained for the nas 10 gene locus. The novel nuclear diagnostic marker will be useful in future studies on a multi-locus genotyping approach and also to study possible hybridization and/or introgression events occurring between the three species in sympatric areas.

Differences in Gene Expression Profiles of Seven Target Proteins in Third-Stage Larvae of Anisakis simplex (Sensu Stricto) by Sites of Infection in Blue Whiting (Micromesistius poutassou)

The third-stage larvae of the parasitic nematode genus Anisakis tend to encapsulate in different tissues including the musculature of fish. Host tissue penetration and degradation involve both mechanic processes and the production of proteins encoded by an array of genes. Investigating larval gene profiles during the fish infection has relevance in understanding biological traits in the parasite’s adaptive ability to cope with the fish hosts’ defense responses. The present study aimed to investigate the gene expression levels of some proteins in L3 of A. simplex (s.s.) infecting different tissues of blue whiting Micromesistius poutassou, a common fish host of the parasite in the NE Atlantic. The following genes encoding for Anisakis spp. proteins were studied: Kunitz-type trypsin inhibitor (TI), hemoglobin (hb), glycoprotein (GP), trehalase (treh), zinc metallopeptidase 13 (nas 13), ubiquitin-protein ligase (hyd) and sideroflexin 2 (sfxn 2). Significant differences in gene transcripts (by quantitative real-time PCR, qPCR) were observed in larvae located in various tissues of the fish host, with respect to the control. ANOVA analysis showed that relative gene expression levels of the seven target genes in the larvae are linked to the infection site in the fish host. Genes encoding some of the target proteins seem to be involved in the host tissue migration and survival of the parasite in the hostile target tissues of the fish host.

Genetic identification and insights into the ecology of Contracaecum rudolphii A and C. rudolphii B (Nematoda: Anisakidae) from cormorants and fish of aquatic ecosystems of Central Italy

Contracaecum rudolphii (s. l.) is a complex of sibling species of anisakid nematodes having the fish-eating birds belonging to the Family Phalacrocoracidae as final hosts. The great cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo sinensis is parasitized by C. rudolphii A and C. rudolphii B. Adults and L4 specimens of C. rudolphii (s. l.) (N = 3282) were collected in cormorants from brackish and freshwater ecosystems of Central Italy. Third-stage larvae of Contracaecum (N = 882) were obtained from the fish species Dicentrarchus labrax, Anguilla anguilla, Aphanius fasciatus, Atherina boyeri, Leuciscus cephalus, Barbus barbus, and Carassius carassius captured in the same geographical areas of cormorants' standings. Contracaecum rudolphii A and C. rudolphii B were identified by a multilocus genetic approach: allozymes, sequences analysis of the mtDNA cox2, and ITS region of rDNA gene loci. Differential distribution of the two parasite species was observed in different aquatic environments. Contracaecum rudolphii B outnumbered C. rudolphii A in wintering cormorants from freshwater ecosystems; the opposite trend was found in cormorants from brackish water. Analogously, C. rudolphii A larvae were more prevalent in brackish water fish, while C. rudolphii B larvae were found infecting only freshwater fish. The findings seem to confirm that C. rudolphii A and C. rudolphii B would have a life-cycle adapted to brackish and freshwater environments, respectively. A differential feeding behavior of wintering cormorants, the ecology of the infected fish species, and abiotic factors related to early stages of the parasites are supposed to maintain the distinctiveness of the two parasite species' life cycles in the two different aquatic ecosystems.

Gene expression profiles of antigenic proteins of third stage larvae of the zoonotic nematode Anisakis pegreffii in response to temperature conditions

Anisakis pegreffii, a recognised etiological agent of human anisakiasis, is a parasite of homeothermic hosts at the adult stage and of ectothermic hosts at the third larval stage. Among distinct factors, temperature appears to be crucial in affecting parasite hatching, moulting and to modulate parasite-host interaction. In the present study, we investigated the gene transcripts of proteins having an antigenic role among excretory secretory products (ESPs) (i.e., a Kunitz-type trypsin inhibitor, A.peg-1; a glycoprotein, A.peg-7; and the myoglobin, A.peg-13) after 24 h, in A. pegreffii larvae maintained in vitro, under controlled temperature conditions. Temperatures were 37 °C and 20 °C, resembling respectively homeothermic and ectothermic hosts conditions, and 7 °C, the cold stress condition post mortem of the fish host. Primers of genes coding for these ESPs to be used in quantitative real-time PCR were newly designed, and qRT-PCR conditions developed. Expression profiles of the genes A.peg-1 and A.peg-13 were significantly up-regulated at 20 °C and 37 °C, with respect to the control (larvae kept at 2 °C for 24 h). Conversely, transcript profiles of A.peg-7 did not significantly change among the chosen temperature conditions. In accordance with the observed transcript profiles, sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) revealed the presence of the three target ESPs at 37 °C, while only A.peg-13 was observed at 7 °C. The results suggest that temperature conditions do regulate the gene expression profiles of A.peg-1 and A.peg-13 in A. pegreffii larvae. However, regulation of the glycoprotein A.peg-7 is likely to be related to other factors such as the host's immune response.

A new micromechanical approach for the preparation of graphene nanoplatelets deposited on polyethylene

An advantageous micromechanical technique to deposit large area graphene nanoplatelet (GNP) thin films on a low-density polyethylene substrate is proposed. This method is based on the application of shear-stress and friction forces to a graphite platelets/ethanol paste on the surface of a polymeric substrate; it allows us to obtain a continuous film of superimposed nanoplatelets mainly made of 13-30 graphene layers. X-ray diffraction (XRD), atomic force and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) measurements support the occurrence of a partial exfoliation of the graphite platelets due to shear-stress and friction forces applied during film formation. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) observations point out that the surface of the polymer is uniformly coated by the overlap of GNPs, and TEM analysis reveals the tendency of the nanoplatelets to align parallel to the interface plane. It has been found that the deposited samples, under white light illumination, exhibit a negative photoconductivity and a linear photoresponse as a function of the applied voltage and the optical power density in the -120 ÷ 120 mV and 20.9 ÷ 286.2 mW cm^-2 ranges, respectively.

A new vinyl selenone-based domino approach to spirocyclopropyl oxindoles endowed with anti-HIV RT activity

Herein, we disclose a general and flexible access to spirocyclopropyl oxindoles by a domino Michael/intramolecular nucleophilic substitution pathway with variously substituted vinyl selenones and enolizable oxindoles in aqueous sodium hydroxide solution. The spirocyclopropyl oxindole being a privileged scaffold, some of the synthesized compounds were selected for biological evaluation. Compound showed selective anti-HIV-1 activity thanks to its ability to inhibit the reverse transcriptase.

Alterations of orexinergic and melanin-concentrating hormone neurons in experimental sleeping sickness

Human African trypanosomiasis or sleeping sickness is a severe, neglected tropical disease caused by the extracellular parasite Trypanosoma brucei. The disease, which leads to chronic neuroinflammation, is characterized by sleep and wake disturbances, documented also in rodent models. In rats and mice infected with Trypanosoma brucei brucei, we here tested the hypothesis that the disease could target neurons of the lateral hypothalamus (LH) containing orexin (OX)-A or melanin-concentrating hormone (MCH), implicated in sleep/wake regulation. In the cerebrospinal fluid of infected rats, the OX-A level was significantly decreased early after parasite neuroinvasion, and returned to the control level at an advanced disease stage. The number of immunohistochemically characterized OX-A and MCH neurons decreased significantly in infected rats during disease progression and in infected mice at an advanced disease stage. A marked reduction of the complexity of dendritic arborizations of OX-A neurons was documented in infected mice. The evaluation of NeuN-immunoreactive neurons did not reveal significant neuronal loss in the LH of infected mice, thus suggesting a potential selective vulnerability of OX-A and MCH neurons. Immunophenotyping and quantitative analysis showed in infected mice marked activation of microglial cells surrounding OX-A neurons. Day/night oscillation of c-Fos baseline expression was used as marker of OX-A neuron activity in mice. In control animals Fos was expressed in a higher proportion of OX-A neurons in the night (activity) phase than in the day (rest) phase. Interestingly, in infected mice the diurnal spontaneous Fos oscillation was reversed, with a proportion of OX-A/Fos neurons significantly higher at daytime than at nighttime. Altogether the findings reveal a progressive decrease of OX-A and MCH neurons and dysregulation of OX-A neuron diurnal activity in rodent models of sleeping sickness. The data point to the involvement of these peptidergic neurons in the pathogenesis of sleep/wake alterations in the disease and to their vulnerability to inflammatory signaling.

A new active thermal neutron detector

This communication presents the main results about the design and in-house fabrication of a new solid-state neutron detector, which produces a DC output signal proportional to the thermal neutron fluence rate. The detector has been developed within the framework of the 3-y project NESCOFI@BTF of INFN (CSN V). Due to its sensitivity, photon rejection, low cost and minimum size, this device is suited to be used in moderator-based spectrometers.

Mechanical properties of low-density polyethylene filled by graphite nanoplatelets

The mechanical properties of GNP/LDPE nanocomposites (graphite nanoplatelets/low density polyethylene) have been investigated, in order to establish the effect of nanoscale reinforcement within the polymer matrix. Results show that the presence of the filler does not involve a change in the microscopic structure of the polymer. However, on a macroscopic scale, GNPs limit the mobility of the polymer chains, resulting in an increase in stiffness for the final composite. Orientation of GNPs within the LDPE matrix is also an important issue that affects mechanical properties and it has been evaluated by testing nanocomposites made by different manufacturing techniques (compression moulding and blown extrusion). The comparison between the experimental data and the Halpin-Tsai model shows that the orientation of GNPs due to the extrusion process leads to values of tensile modulus higher than that obtained with the randomly oriented disposition resulting from the compression moulding technique.

The detection of landmines by neutron backscattering: Exploring the limits of the technique

Neutron backscattering (NB) sensors have been proposed for Humanitarian De-mining applications. Recently, a prototype hand-held system integrating a NB sensor in a metal detector has been developed within the EU-funded DIAMINE Project. The results obtained in terms of performance of the NB systems and limitations in its use are presented in this work. It is found that the performance of NB sensors is strongly limited by the presence of the soil moisture and by its small-scale variations. The use of the neutron hit distribution to reduce false alarms is explored.

Laparoscopic excision of posterior vaginal fornix in the treatment of patients with deep endometriosis without rectum involvement: surgical treatment and long-term follow-up

BACKGROUND

The objective of the study is to evaluate the short- and long-term efficacy of complete laparoscopic excision of deep endometriosis, without rectum involvement, with the opening and partial excision of the posterior vaginal fornix.

METHODS

Thirty-one patients were included in the study with symptomatic extensive disease including involvement of the cul-de-sac, rectovaginal space and posterior vaginal fornix without rectum involvement. Endoscopic surgery was performed with complete separation of rectovaginal space and in-block resection of the diseased tissue, opening and partial excision of the posterior vaginal fornix and vaginal closure either by laparoscopic or by vaginal route. Patients filled in questionnaires on pain before and 12, 24, 36, 48 and 60 months after surgical treatment.

RESULTS

No intraoperative complications were observed; 65% were free of analgesic on post-operative day 2, 38% had total remission of chronic pain and 22% were improved; 38% had total remission of dysmenorrhoea and 22% were improved; 45% had total remission of dyspareunia and 25% were improved. Follow-up improvement of symptoms was statistically significant and was maintained for 5 years without recurrence of the disease or repeated surgery (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Complete surgical resection of deep infiltrative endometriosis with excision of the adjacent tissue of the posterior vaginal fornix improves quality of life with persistence of results for long time in patients not responsive to medical treatment.

Transfer of Aflatoxin B1 from Feed to Milk and from Milk to Curd and Whey in Dairy Sheep Fed Artificially Contaminated Concentrates

An experiment was carried out using dairy ewes to study the transfer of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) from feed to milk and from milk to cheese. The effects of AFB1 on liver function and hematological parameters were also investigated. Fifteen ewes were assigned to treatments in replicated 3 x 3 Latin squares. The experimental groups received 32, 64, or 128 microg/d of pure AFB1 for 7 d followed by 5 d of clearance. On the sixth day of the first period, the total daily milk produced by each ewe was collected separately and processed into cheese. The results indicate that the level of AFB1 used did not adversely affect animal health and milk production traits. The aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) concentrations in milk approached a steady-state condition in all treated groups between 2 and 7 d after the start of treatment. The mean AFM1 concentrations of treated groups in steady-state condition (184.4, 324.7, and 596.9 ng/kg in ewes fed 32, 64, or 128 microg of AFB1, respectively) were significantly affected by the AFB1 doses. The AFM1 concentration was linearly related to the AFB1 intake/kg of BW. The carry-over values of AFB1 from feed into AFM1 in milk (0.26 to 0.33%) were not influenced by the AFB1 doses. The AFM1 concentrations in curd and whey were linearly related to the AFM1 concentrations in the unprocessed milk.

Evidence for a kaon-bound state K(-)pp produced in K(-) absorption reactions at rest

We have searched for a deeply bound kaonic state by using the FINUDA spectrometer installed at the e(+)e(-) collider DAPhiNE. Almost monochromatic K(-)'s produced through the decay of phi(1020) mesons are used to observe K(-) absorption reactions stopped on very thin nuclear targets. Taking this unique advantage, we have succeeded to detect a kaon-bound state K(-)pp through its two-body decay into a Lambda hyperon and a proton. The binding energy and the decay width are determined from the invariant-mass distribution as 115(+6)(-5)(stat)(+3)(-4)(syst) MeV and 67(+14)(-11)(stat)(+2)(-3)(syst) MeV, respectively.

The TRADE experiment: shielding calculations for the building hosting the subcritical system

The TRADE project (TRiga Accelerator Driven Experiment), to be performed at the existing TRIGA reactor at ENEA Casaccia, has been proposed as a validation of the accelerator-driven system (ADS) concept. TRADE will be the first experiment in which the three main components of an ADS--the accelerator, spallation target and sub-critical blanket--are coupled at a power level sufficient to encounter reactivity feedback effects. As such, TRADE represents the necessary intermediate step in the development of hybrid transmutation systems, its expected outcomes being considered crucial--in terms of proof of stability of operation, dynamic behaviour and licensing issues--for the subsequent realisation of an ADS Transmutation Demonstrator. An essential role in the feasibility study of the experiment is played by radioprotection calculations. Such a system exhibits new characteristics with respect to a traditional reactor, owing to the presence of the proton accelerator. As beam losses always occur under normal operating conditions of an accelerator, shielding studies need to be performed not only around the reactor but also along the beam line from the accelerator to the spallation target. This paper illustrates a preliminary evaluation, using Monte Carlo methods, of the additional shielding to be located around the reactor structures, the beam transport line and the existing reactor building to allow access into the reactor hall and to restrict the doses outside to their legal limits.

Detection of landmines by using 14MeV neutron tagged beams

A large-area scanning system using 14 MeV tagged neutrons has been built. The associated (4)He particles emitted in the D+T reaction are detected in an array of Parallel Plate Avalanche Counters that defines a scanning plane having about 10 x 100 cm(2) area. Coincident gamma-rays are detected by 10 BaF(2) scintillators. The capability of the system to determine the presence and the position of samples and to perform an on-line background subtraction is demonstrated. Test with landmines are also reported. This technique allows a significant improvement of the signal-to-noise ratio searching for hidden threat materials. The use with portable sealed-tube generators is foreseen.