Comparative genomics of Giardia duodenalis sub-assemblage AI beaver (Be-2) and human (WB-C6) strains show remarkable homozygosity, sequence similarity, and conservation of VSP genes.

Giardia duodenalis, a major cause of waterborne infection, infects a wide range of mammalian hosts and is subdivided into eight genetically well-defined assemblages named A through H. However, fragmented genomes and a lack of comparative analysis within and between the assemblages render unclear the molecular mechanisms controlling host specificity and differential disease outcomes. To address this, we generated a near-complete de novo genome of AI assemblage using the Oxford Nanopore platform by sequencing the Be-2 genome. We generated 148,144 long-reads with quality scores of > 7. The final genome assembly consists of only nine contigs with an N50 of 3,045,186 bp. This assembly agrees closely with the assembly of another strain in the AI assemblage (WB-C6). However, a critical difference is that a region previously placed in the five-prime region of Chr5 belongs to Chr4 of Be-2. We find a high degree of conservation in the ploidy, homozygosity, and the presence of cysteine-rich variant-specific surface proteins (VSPs) within the AI assemblage. Our assembly provides a nearly complete genome of a member of the AI assemblage of G. duodenalis, aiding population genomic studies capable of elucidating Giardia transmission, host range, and pathogenicity.

Molecular detection of intestinal parasites in a rural community of Colombia: A one health approach to explore potential environmental-zoonotic transmission.

AIMS: Protozoan and helminth parasitic infections pose significant public health challenges, especially in developing countries with rural populations marked by suboptimal hygiene practices and socio-economic constraints. The parasites are the etiological agents of these infections and have a notably elevated global prevalence. Therefore, this study focuses on estimating the frequency and transmission dynamics of several parasitic species, including Blastocystis, Giardia, Cryptosporidium spp., Entamoeba histolytica, Ascaris lumbricoides, Trichuris trichiura, Taenia spp. and hookworms, within a rural community in southwest Colombia with a particular emphasis on the One Health framework, considering environmental and zoonotic transmission potentials. METHODS AND RESULTS: This study involved the analysis of 125 samples, encompassing human participants (n = 99), their domestic pets (dogs) (n = 24) and water sources (n = 2). Parasite detection was carried out utilizing a combination of microscopy and molecular techniques. Furthermore, the characterization of Blastocystis subtypes (STs) was achieved through Oxford Nanopore sequencing of the rRNA-18S gene. The investigation also entailed the examination of potential associations between intestinal parasitism and various sociodemographic factors. Results revealed a high frequency of parasitic infections when employing molecular methods, with Blastocystis (n = 109/87%), Giardia (n = 20/16%), Ancylostoma duodenale (n = 28/22%), Ancylostoma ceylanicum (n = 7/5.6%), E. histolytica (n = 6/4.8%), Cryptosporidium spp. (n = 12/9.6%) and even Taenia (n = 1/0.8%) detected. Cryptosporidium spp. was also identified in water samples. Coinfections were prevalent, with 57% (n = 70) of samples exhibiting single-parasite infections and 43% (n = 53) showing various degrees of polyparasitism, emphasizing the complexity of transmission dynamics. Blastocystis subtyping, conducted via Oxford Nanopore sequencing, revealed a diversity of subtypes and coexistence patterns, with ST2 being the most prevalent. CONCLUSIONS: This research underscores the importance of using molecular techniques for frequency estimation, particularly emphasizing the relevance of zoonotic transmission in parasitic infections. It highlights the significance of the One Health approach in comprehending the circulation of parasites among animals, humans and environmental sources, thereby directly impacting public health and epidemiological surveillance.

Differential expression of meiosis and homologous recombination-related genes in the life cycle of Trypanosoma cruzi.

Trypanosoma cruzi has a complex life cycle consisting of four morphological and distinct biological stages. Although some authors suggest that T. cruzi primarily follows clonal reproduction, recent genomic and transcriptomic studies indicate an unorthodox capacity for recombination. We aimed to estimate the differential gene expression of 10 meiosis/homologous recombination-related genes during the T. cruzi life cycle, including epimastigotes, under two different types of stress (oxidative stress and pH changes). We performed RT-qPCR tests using novel-designed primers to estimate the differential gene expression (∆Ct and ∆∆Ct) of nine genes (SPO11, HAP2, RAD50, MRN complex, BRCA2, DMC1, MND1, and RPA1) and RAD51, which was previously reported. Our results show basal expression of all genes during the life cycle, indicating their hypothetical role in several cellular processes but with specific signatures of differential gene expression during the life cycle (HAP2, RPA, RAD50, BRCA2, MND1, and DMC1) and oxidative stress (RPA, MRE11, NBS1, BRCA2, MND1, and RAD51). Additionally, we found that the MRN complex has an independent level of expression in T. cruzi, with profiles of MRE11 and NBS1 upregulated in some stages. Recent studies on other trypanosomatids have highlighted the influence of HAP2 and RPA in recombination and hybridization. If T. cruzi uses the same repertoire of genes, our findings could suggest that metacyclogenesis may be the putative step that the parasite uses to undergo recombination. Likewise, our study reveals the differential profiles of genes expressed in response to oxidative and pH stress. Further studies are necessary to confirm our findings and understand the recombination mechanism in T. cruzi.

Microbiome Alterations Driven by Trypanosoma cruzi Infection in Two Disjunctive Murine Models.

Alterations caused by Trypanosoma cruzi in the composition of gut microbiome may play a vital role in the host-parasite interactions that shapes physiology and immune responses against infection. Thus, a better understanding of this parasite-host-microbiome interaction may yield relevant information in the comprehension of the pathophysiology of the disease and the development of new prophylactic and therapeutic alternatives. Therefore, we implemented a murine model with two mice strains (BALB/c and C57BL/6) to evaluate the impact of Trypanosoma cruzi (Tulahuen strain) infection on the gut microbiome utilizing cytokine profiling and shotgun metagenomics. Higher parasite burdens were observed in cardiac and intestinal tissues, including changes in anti-inflammatory (interleukin-4 [IL-4] and IL-10) and proinflammatory (gamma interferon, tumor necrosis factor alpha, and IL-6) cytokines. Bacterial species such as Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron, Faecalibaculum rodentium, and Lactobacillus johnsonii showed a decrease in relative abundance, while Akkermansia muciniphila and Staphylococcus xylosus increased. Likewise, as infection progressed, there was a decrease in gene abundances related to metabolic processes such as lipid synthesis (including short-chain fatty acids) and amino acid synthesis (including branched-chain amino acids). High-quality metagenomic assembled genomes of L. johnsonii and A. muciniphila among other species were reconstructed, confirming, functional changes associated with metabolic pathways that are directly affected by the loss of abundance of specific bacterial taxa. IMPORTANCE Chagas disease (CD) is caused by the protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi, presenting acute and chronic phases where cardiomyopathy, megaesophagus, and/or megacolon stand out. During the course of its life cycle, the parasite has an important gastrointestinal tract transit that leads to severe forms of CD. The intestinal microbiome plays an essential role in the immunological, physiological, and metabolic homeostasis of the host. Therefore, parasite-host-intestinal microbiome interactions may provide information on certain biological and pathophysiological aspects related to CD. The present study proposes a comprehensive evaluation of the potential effects of this interaction based on metagenomic and immunological data from two mice models with different genetic, immunological, and microbiome backgrounds. Our findings suggest that there are alterations in the immune and microbiome profiles that affect several metabolic pathways that can potentially promote the infection's establishment, progression, and persistence. In addition, this information may prove essential in the research of new prophylactic and therapeutic alternatives for CD.

Changes in the Cervical Microbiota of Women with Different High-Risk Human Papillomavirus Loads.

The cervical microbiota is essential in female sexual health, and its altered states seem to have a central role in the dynamic of high-risk papillomavirus (hrHPV) infections. This study aimed to evaluate the variation in bacterial communities' compositions according to hrHPV. We collected two samples per woman, with a difference of 12 ± 1 months between them, and performed a follow-up on 66 of these women. The viral load (VL) of the hrHPV was estimated by quantitative PCR (qPCR), then it was normalized (using the HMBS gene as reference) and transformed to the Log10 scale to facilitate the interpretation. The VL was categorized as Negative, without hrHPV copies; Low, less than 100 hrHPV copies; Medium, between 100 to 102 hrHPV copies; and High, >102 hrHPV copies. The microbiota composition was described through the Illumina Novaseq PE250 platform. The diversity analyses revealed changes regarding the hrHPV VL, where women with low VL (<100 hrHPV copies) presented high diversity. The community state type (CST) IV was the most common. However, in women with high VL, a lower association with Lactobacillus depletion was found. Lactobacillus gallinarum and L. iners were the most abundant species in women with high VL, whereas women with low VL had a 6.06 greater probability of exhibiting Lactobacillus dominance. We identified conspicuous differences in the abundance of 78 bacterial genera between women with low and high VL, where 26 were depleted (e.g., Gardnerella) and 52 increased (e.g., Mycoplasma). A multilevel mixed-effects linear regression showed changes in the diversity due to the interaction between the measurement time and the VL, with a decrease in diversity in the second follow-up in women with low VL (Coeff. = 0.47), whereas the women with medium VL displayed an increase in diversity (Coeff. = 0.58). Here, we report for the first time that the cervical microbiota is influenced by the number of copies of hrHPV, where a decrease in the abundance of Lactobacillus, greater diversity, and enrichment of bacterial taxa is relevant in women with low VL.

Safety and efficacy of convalescent plasma for severe COVID-19: a randomized, single blinded, parallel, controlled clinical study.

BACKGROUND: Convalescent plasma (CP) has been widely used to treat COVID-19 and is under study. However, the variability in the current clinical trials has averted its wide use in the current pandemic. We aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of CP in severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in the early stages of the disease. METHODS: A randomized controlled clinical study was conducted on 101 patients admitted to the hospital with confirmed severe COVID-19. Most participants had less than 14 days from symptoms onset and less than seven days from hospitalization. Fifty patients were assigned to receive CP plus standard therapy (ST), and 51 were assigned to receive ST alone. Participants in the CP arm received two doses of 250 mL each, transfused 24 h apart. All transfused plasma was obtained from "super donors" that fulfilled the following criteria: titers of anti-SARS-CoV-2 S1 IgG ≥ 1:3200 and IgA ≥ 1:800 antibodies. The effect of transfused anti-IFN antibodies and the SARS-CoV-2 variants at the entry of the study on the overall CP efficacy was evaluated. The primary outcomes were the reduction in viral load and the increase in IgG and IgA antibodies at 28 days of follow-up. The per-protocol analysis included 91 patients. RESULTS: An early but transient increase in IgG anti-S1-SARS-CoV-2 antibody levels at day 4 post-transfusion was observed (Estimated difference [ED], - 1.36; 95% CI, - 2.33 to - 0.39; P = 0.04). However, CP was not associated with viral load reduction in any of the points evaluated. Analysis of secondary outcomes revealed that those patients in the CP arm disclosed a shorter time to discharge (ED adjusted for mortality, 3.1 days; 95% CI, 0.20 to 5.94; P = 0.0361) or a reduction of 2 points on the WHO scale when compared with the ST group (HR adjusted for mortality, 1.6; 95% CI, 1.03 to 2.5; P = 0.0376). There were no benefits from CP on the rates of intensive care unit admission (HR, 0.82; 95% CI, 0.35 to 1.9; P = 0.6399), mechanical ventilation (HR, 0.66; 95% CI, 0.25 to 1.7; P = 0.4039), or mortality (HR, 3.2; 95% CI, 0.64 to 16; P = 0.1584). Anti-IFN antibodies and SARS-CoV-2 variants did not influence these results. CONCLUSION: CP was not associated with viral load reduction, despite the early increase in IgG anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. However, CP is safe and could be a therapeutic option to reduce the hospital length of stay. Trial registration NCT04332835.

Robust clinical detection of SARS-CoV-2 variants by RT-PCR/MALDI-TOF multitarget approach.

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has sparked the rapid development of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) diagnostics. However, emerging variants pose the risk for target dropout and false-negative results secondary to primer/probe binding site (PBS) mismatches. The Agena MassARRAY® SARS-CoV-2 Panel combines reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass-spectrometry to probe for five targets across N and ORF1ab genes, which provides a robust platform to accommodate PBS mismatches in divergent viruses. Herein, we utilize a deidentified data set of 1262 SARS-CoV-2-positive specimens from Mount Sinai Health System (New York City) from December 2020 to April 2021 to evaluate target results and corresponding sequencing data. Overall, the level of PBS mismatches was greater in specimens with target dropout. Of specimens with N3 target dropout, 57% harbored an A28095T substitution that is highly specific for the Alpha (B.1.1.7) variant of concern. These data highlight the benefit of redundancy in target design and the potential for target performance to illuminate the dynamics of circulating SARS-CoV-2 variants.

First report and genome sequencing of SARS-CoV-2 in a cat (Felis catus) in Colombia

BACKGROUND Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a virus of zoonotic origin that can bind to ACE2 receptors on the cells of many wild and domestic mammals. Studies have shown that the virus can circulate among animals mutate, lead to animal-to-human zoonotic jump, and further onward spread between humans. Infection in pets is unusual, and there are few human-to-pet transmission reports worldwide. OBJECTIVE To describe the SARS-CoV-2 infection in a domestic animal in Córdoba, Colombian Caribbean region. METHODS A cross-sectional molecular surveillance study was carried out, oral and rectal swabs were taken from cats and dogs living with people diagnosed with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). RESULTS SARS-CoV-2 was found in a cat living with a person with COVID-19. Genome sequencing showed that the B.1.111 lineage caused the infection in the cat. The owner's sample could not be sequenced. The lineage is predominant in Colombia, and this variant is characterised by the presence of the D614D and Q57H mutation. CONCLUSION The present work is the first report of an infected cat with SARS-CoV-2 with whole-genome sequencing in Colombia. It highlights the importance of detecting SARS-CoV-2 mutations that could promote the transmissibility of this new coronavirus. There is still a significant information gap on human-to-cat-to-human infection; we encourage self-isolation measures between COVID-19 patients and companion animals. The findings of this study give a preliminary view of the current panorama of SARS-CoV-2 infection in animals in Colombia.

Comparative analysis of the transcriptional responses of five Leishmania species to trivalent antimony.

BACKGROUND: Leishmaniasis is a neglected tropical disease caused by several species of Leishmania. The resistance phenotype of these parasites depends on the characteristics of each species, which contributes to increased therapeutic failures. Understanding the mechanism used by the parasite to survive under treatment pressure in order to identify potential common and specific therapeutic targets is essential for the control of leishmaniasis. The aim of this study was to investigate the expression profiles and potential shared and specific resistance markers of the main Leishmania species of medical importance [subgenus L. (Leishmania): L. donovani, L. infantum and L. amazonensis; subgenus L. (Viannia): L. panamensis and L. braziliensis)] resistant and sensitive to trivalent stibogluconate (SbIII). METHODS: We conducted comparative analysis of the transcriptomic profiles (only coding sequences) of lines with experimentally induced resistance to SbIII from biological replicates of five Leishmania species available in the databases of four articles based on ortholog attribution. Simultaneously, we carried out functional analysis of ontology and reconstruction of metabolic pathways of the resulting differentially expressed genes (DEGs). RESULTS: Resistant lines for each species had differential responses in metabolic processes, compound binding, and membrane components concerning their sensitive counterpart. One hundred and thirty-nine metabolic pathways were found, with the three main pathways comprising cysteine and methionine metabolism, glycolysis, and the ribosome. Differentially expressed orthologous genes assigned to species-specific responses predominated, with 899 self-genes. No differentially expressed genes were found in common among the five species. Two common upregulated orthologous genes were found among four species (L. donovani, L. braziliensis, L. amazonensis, and L. panamensis) related to an RNA-binding protein and the NAD(P)H cytochrome-B5-oxidoreductase complex, associated with transcriptional control and de novo synthesis of linoleic acid, critical mechanisms in resistance to antimonials. CONCLUSION: Herein, we identified potential species-specific genes related to resistance to SbIII. Therefore, we suggest that future studies consider a treatment scheme that is species-specific. Despite the limitations of our study, this is the first approach toward unraveling the pan-genus genetic mechanisms of resistance in leishmaniasis.

Association between physical activity and changes in intestinal microbiota composition: A systematic review.

INTRODUCTION: The intestinal microbiota comprises bacteria, fungi, archaea, protists, helminths and viruses that symbiotically inhabit the digestive system. To date, research has provided limited data on the possible association between an active lifestyle and a healthy composition of human microbiota. This review was aimed to summarize the results of human studies comparing the microbiome of healthy individuals with different physical activity amounts. METHODS: We searched Medline/Ovid, NIH/PubMed, and Academic Search Complete between August-October 2020. Inclusion criteria comprised: (a) cross-sectional studies focused on comparing gut microbiome among subjects with different physical activity levels; (b) studies describing human gut microbiome responses to any type of exercise stimulus; (c) studies containing healthy adult women and men. We excluded studies containing diet modifications, probiotic or prebiotic consumption, as well as studies focused on diabetes, hypertension, cancer, hormonal dysfunction. Methodological quality and risk of bias for each study were assessed using the Risk Of Bias In Non-randomized Studies-of Interventions tool. The results from cross-sectional and longitudinal studies are shown independently. RESULTS: A total of 17 articles were eligible for inclusion: ten cross-sectional and seven longitudinal studies. Main outcomes vary significantly according to physical activity amounts in longitudinal studies. We identified discrete changes in diversity indexes and relative abundance of certain bacteria in active people. CONCLUSION: As literature in this field is rapidly growing, it is important that studies incorporate diverse methods to evaluate other aspects related to active lifestyles such as sleep and dietary patterns. Exploration of other groups such as viruses, archaea and parasites may lead to a better understanding of gut microbiota adaptation to physical activity and sports and its potentially beneficial effects on host metabolism and endurance.

Systematic review on the biology, ecology, genetic diversity and parasite transmission potential of Panstrongylus geniculatus (Latreille 1811) in Latin America

Panstrongylus geniculatus (Latreille, 1811) is the triatomine with the largest geographic distribution in Latin America. It has been reported in 18 countries from southern Mexico to northern Argentina, including the Caribbean islands. Although most reports indicate that P. geniculatus has wild habitats, this species has intrusive habits regarding human dwellings mainly located in intermediate deforested areas. It is attracted by artificial light from urban and rural buildings, raising the risk of transmission of Trypanosoma cruzi. Despite the wide body of published information on P. geniculatus, many knowledge gaps exist about its biology and epidemiological potential. For this reason, we analysed the literature for P. geniculatus in Scopus, PubMed, Scielo, Google Scholar and the BibTriv3.0 databases to update existing knowledge and provide better information on its geographic distribution, life cycle, genetic diversity, evidence of intrusion and domiciliation, vector-related circulating discrete taxonomic units, possible role in oral T. cruzi transmission, and the effect of climate change on its biology and epidemiology.

Human Papillomavirus (HPV69/HPV73) Coinfection associated with Simultaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Anus and Presumed Lung Metastasis.

BACKGROUND: Human papillomaviruses (HPVs) have been linked to a variety of human cancers. As the landscape of HPV-related neoplasia continues to expand, uncommon and rare HPV genotypes have also started to emerge. Host-virus interplay is recognized as a key driver in HPV carcinogenesis, with host immune status, virus genetic variants and coinfection highly influencing the dynamics of malignant transformation. Immunosuppression and tissue tropism are also known to influence HPV pathogenesis. METHODS: Herein, we present a case of a patient who, in the setting of HIV positivity, developed anal squamous cell carcinoma associated with HPV69 and later developed squamous cell carcinoma in the lungs, clinically presumed to be metastatic disease, associated with HPV73. Consensus PCR screening for HPV was performed by real-time PCR amplification of the L1 gene region, amplification of the E6 regions with High-Resolution Melting Curve Analysis followed by Sanger sequencing confirmation and phylogenetic analysis. RESULTS: Sanger sequencing of the consensus PCR amplification product determined that the anal tissue sample was positive for HPV 69, and the lung tissue sample was positive for HPV 73. CONCLUSIONS: This case underscores the importance of recognizing the emerging role of these rare "possibly carcinogenic" HPV types in human carcinogenesis.

Preocupaciones y cambio social durante la pandemia de coronavirus en Colombia / Preocupações e mudanças sociais durante a pandemia de coronavírus na Colômbia / Concerns and social change during the coronavirus pandemic in Colombia

Objetivo describir las preocupaciones y los cambios sociales de las personas durante la pandemia por coronavirus en Colombia. Método estudio cuantitativo de tipo descriptivo-exploratorio, realizado con 352 personas en Colombia, por medio de un formulario estructurado de Google Forms en marzo de 2020. El análisis de datos se realizó por medio de estadística descriptiva. Resultados el aislamiento social o físico ha generado un impacto en el estilo de vida de las personas en Colombia, lo que los ha llevado a tener preocupaciones que conducen a pensamientos rumiantes, asociados con factores generadores de estrés, relacionados con los problemas económicos, laborales y de salud de sus familiares. Conclusión la pandemia de coronavirus ha causado preocupaciones, alteraciones y cambios consecuentes al estilo de vida de las personas en Colombia, situación que debe ser manejada interprofesional y holísticamente por profesionales de Enfermería.

Objetivo descrever as preocupações e as mudanças sociais das pessoas durante a pandemia do coronavírus na Colômbia. Método estudo quantitativo descritivo-explicativo, realizado com 352 pessoas na Colômbia, utilizando um formulário estruturado do Google Forms em março de 2020. A análise dos dados foi feita por meio de estatística descritiva. Resultados o isolamento social ou físico gerou um impacto no estilo de vida das pessoas na Colômbia, o que as levou a ter preocupações que geram pensamentos ruminantes, associados a fatores de estresse relacionados a problemas econômicos, trabalhistas e de saúde de seus familiares. Conclusão a pandemia de coronavírus causou preocupações, alterações e consequentes mudanças no estilo de vida das pessoas na Colômbia, uma situação que deve ser gerenciada interprofissional e holisticamente por profissionais de Enfermagem.

Objective to describe the concerns and social changes of people during the coronavirus pandemic in Colombia. Method quantitative descriptive-exploratory study, carried out with 352 people in Colombia, using a structured form on Google Forms in March 2020. The data analysis was done by descriptive statistics. Results social or physical isolation has generated an impact on the lifestyle of people in Colombia, which has led them to have concerns that lead to ruminant thoughts, associated with stress generators, related to economic, labor and health problems of their families. Conclusion the coronavirus pandemic has caused concerns, alterations and consequent changes to the lifestyle of people in Colombia, a situation that must be managed interprofessionally and holistically by nursing professionals.

Minor temperature shifts do not affect chromosomal ploidy but cause transcriptomic changes in Leishmania braziliensis promastigotes in vitro

BACKGROUND The leishmaniases are complex neglected diseases caused by protozoan parasites of the genus Leishmania. Leishmania braziliensis is the main etiological agent of cutaneous leishmaniasis in the New World. In recent studies, genomic changes such as chromosome and gene copy number variations (CNVs), as well as transcriptomic changes have been highlighted as mechanisms used by Leishmania species to adapt to stress situations. OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to determine the effect of short-term minor temperature shifts in the genomic and transcriptomic responses of L. braziliensis promastigotes in vitro. METHODS Growth curves, genome and transcriptome sequencing of L. braziliensis promastigotes were conducted from cultures exposed to three different temperatures (24ºC, 28ºC and 30ºC) compared with the control temperature (26ºC). FINDINGS Our results showed a decrease in L. braziliensis proliferation at 30ºC, with around 3% of the genes showing CNVs at each temperature, and transcriptomic changes in genes encoding amastin surface-like proteins, heat shock proteins and transport proteins, which may indicate a direct response to temperature stress. MAIN CONCLUSIONS This study provides evidence that L. braziliensis promastigotes exhibit a decrease in cell density, and noticeable changes in the transcriptomic profiles. However, there were not perceptible changes at chromosome CNVs and only ~3% of the genes changed their copies in each treatment.

El lenguaje estandarizado enfermero: conocimiento y perspectiva para el cuidado materno-perinatal / Standardized Nursing Language: Knowledge and Perspective about the Maternal-Perinatal Care / A linguagem enfermeira estandardizada: conhecimento e perspectiva para o cuidado materno-perinatal

Objetivo: Describir los hallazgos registrados en la literatura científica sobre el uso del lenguaje estandarizado enfermero como estrategia para fomentar el cuidado a la gestante en los servicios materno-perinatales. Método: Revisión integrativa de la literatura de artículos científicos publicados en bases de datos entre 1994 y 2017 en español, inglés y portugués. Se seleccionaron 63 artículos. Resultados: Se establecieron tres categorías que aluden al Conocimiento Contemporáneo de Enfermería (CCE), al Proceso de Atención de Enfermería (PAE) y a las perspectivas para la aplicación del lenguaje enfermero estandarizado (LEE) en el cuidado materno-perinatal. Conclusión: Se plantea una propuesta denominada Modelo Educación, Práctica e Investigación (EPI), que pretende fortalecer el saber enfermero acorde con sus competencias.

Objective: To describe the findings recorded in the scientific literature about the use of the standardized nursing language as a strategy to promote the care for pregnant women and in the maternal-perinatal services. Method: This is a comprehensive review of the literature covering scientific articles published in different databases between 1994 and 2017 in Spanish, English and Portuguese; 63 articles were selected. Results: Articles were grouped in three categories regarding the Contemporary Nursing Knowledge (CNK), the Nursing Care Process (NCP), and perspectives for the application of the Standardized Nursing Language (SNL) in the maternal-perinatal care practice. Conclusion: This work provides a proposal named Model of Education, Practice and Research (EPR) intended to strengthen the nursing knowledge based on the competences.

Objetivo: Descrever os achados registrados na literatura científica sobre o uso da linguagem enfermeira estandardizada como estratégia para fomentar o cuidado à gestante nos serviços materno-perinatais. Método: Revisão integrativa da literatura de artigos científicos publicados em bases de dados entre 1994 e 2017 em espanhol, inglês e português. 63 artigos foram selecionados. Resultados: Três categorias que aludem ao Conhecimento Contemporâneo de Enfermagem (CCE), o Processo de Atendimento de Enfermagem (PAE) e às perspectivas para a aplicação da linguagem enfermeira estandardizada (LEE) no cuidado materno-perinatal foram estabelecidas. Conclusão: Coloca-se uma proposta nomeada Modelo Educação, Prática e Pesquisa (EPI) que visa fortalecer o saber enfermeiro acorde com suas competências.

Molecular detection and genotyping of pathogenic protozoan parasites in raw and treated water samples from southwest Colombia.

BACKGROUND: Protozoan parasites such as Giardia duodenalis, Cryptosporidium spp., Cyclospora cayetanensis, Toxoplasma gondii and Entamoeba histolytica represent a great challenge to the systems producing water for human consumption because their cystic forms are persistent in the environment and resist to the disinfection methods conventionally used for their control. In this study, we investigated the presence of these protozoan pathogens in both raw and treated water samples used for the production of drinking water in Nariño Department, southwest Colombia. We collected 110 water samples (10 lof each sample) and analyzed them with real-time PCR (qPCR). qPCR-positive samples were genotyped with PCR and DNA sequencing. RESULTS: Giardia duodenalis was detected in 35/110 (31.8%) of the samples and Cryptosporidium spp. in 9/110 (8.2%) of the samples; no sample was positive for T. gondii, E. histolytica or C. cayetanensis. Giardia duodenalis was detected in samples of both raw water (Drinking Water Treatment Plants (DWTP): 47.83%;Drinking Water Rural Plants (DWRP): 18.42%) and water collected either after conventional physicochemical treatment (26.09%) or after disinfection by chlorine (50%), whereas Cryptosporidium spp. were only detected in raw waters (DWTP: 17.39%; DWRP: 13.16%). The two pathogens were detected in both types of treatment plants supplying water to urban areas and to rural zones. Analysis of gdh and tpi markers identified assemblages AI, AII and H of G. duodenalis, while analysis of the small subunit rRNA and gp60 markers of Cryptosporidium-positive samples identified C. parvum (Subtype IIcA5G3c), C. galli, C. molnari, Cryptosporidium sp. genotype II of bats and Cryptosporidium sp. genotype VIII of birds. CONCLUSIONS: The results obtained demonstrate the presence of protozoan parasites in the water of the study region, and the need to improve the surveillance systems for these pathogens and identify the corresponding sources of contamination.

First Colombian consensus on congenital Chagas and clinical approach for women of child-bearing age diagnosed with Chagas / Primer consenso colombiano sobre Chagas congénito y orientación clínica a mujeres en edad fértil con diagnóstico de Chagas

Congenital transmission of Chagas disease has not been extensively studied in Colombia, and there are no standardized processes in the health system regarding the specific diagnosis, treatment and follow-up of this disease. To generate recommendations on congenital Chagas disease and Chagas in women of childbearing age in Colombia, a consensus of experts was developed. An extensive literature search through the Medline database was carried out using the MeSH terms: «Chagas disease/congenital¼, «prevention and control¼, «diagnosis¼, «therapeutics¼ and «pregnancy¼. Appropriate abstracts were selected and the full texts were analyzed. The relevant information was synthesized, classified, and organized into tables and figures and was presented to a panel of experts, which was composed of 30 professionals from various fields. Based on the Delphi methodology, three rounds of consultation were conducted. The first and second rounds were based on electronic questionnaires that measured the level of consensus of each question among the participants. The third round was based on a face-to-face discussion focusing on those questions without consensus in the previous consultations. The evidence was adapted to national circumstances on a case-by-case basis, and the content the final document was approved. These recommendations are proposed for use in routine medical practice by health professionals in Colombia.

La transmisión congénita de la enfermedad de Chagas ha sido poco estudiada en Colombia y existen pocos procedimientos rutinarios en el sistema de salud para el manejo de esta enfermedad. Por ello se desarrolló un consenso de expertos dirigido a generar recomendaciones de diagnóstico y tratamiento de Chagas con- génito y orientación a mujeres en edad fértil. Con ese propósito se realizó una búsqueda extensiva de la literatura, empleando una combinación de términos Mes (Chagas, Chagas congénito, prevención, control, diagnóstico, tratamiento y embarazo) para reflejar el estado del arte en cada tema de interés. Después de ello, se leyeron los resúmenes y aquellos seleccionados para análisis del texto completo. La literatura relevante se sintetizo, clasifico y organizo en tablas y se presentó al panel de expertos, el cual estaba constituido por 30 profesionales en diferentes áreas. Mediante la metodología Delphi se realizaron 2 rondas de cuestionarios virtuales y una reunión presencial en los cuales se evaluaron los niveles de acuerdo entre los participantes. Los puntos con falta de consenso durante las 2 rondas virtuales se expusieron durante las mesas de discusión en la ronda presencial. La evidencia utilizada se adaptó a las particularidades nacionales según el caso y se aprobó el contenido del documento final. Se propone que estas recomendaciones sean usadas por profesionales de la salud en Colombia.

Molecular and morphological characterization of Acanthamoeba isolated from corneal scrapes and contact lens wearers in Argentina.

In this study, we describe the frequency of Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK) in patients that assisted in the Ophthalmology Department and determine the species/genotypes of free living amoebas (FLA) isolates. FLA from Corneal scrapes (CS) and contact lens (CL) wearers were studied by morphological and molecular characterization. A database was constructed with sociodemographic, clinical findings and history of use of CL variables. During January 2000 and September 2016 patients with corneal pathology admitted to the Ophthalmology Service of the University Hospital in Córdoba city, Argentina were included in the study. FLA were detected in 1.5% (11/739) and in 17% (11/65) of CS and CL analyzed respectively. FLA isolates from CL users evidenced an 80.9% of inappropriate lens maintenance, 4.8% (1/21) were not CL users that have been in contact with waters in outdoor environment and 14,3% (3/21) with no data about CL users. Acanthamoeba was confirmed in 100% and 82% of CS and LC respectively. The most frequent symptom associated with AK was red eye and photophobia. FLA from CS belonged to group II but 82% (9/11) and 18% (2/11) from CL belonged to group II and III respectively. T4 genotype and A. polyphaga species were detected in 100% of Acanthamoeba isolates. Poor CL hygiene practices, highlights the need for improved education about the severity of AK and consequences of improper CL hygiene. Genotype T4 detected in 100% of both CS and CL samples, consistently with previous findings indicating that this genotype is by far the most prevalent isolated from ocular infection.

Hemosiderosis pulmonar idiopática en paciente adulto / Idiopathic pulmonary hemosiderosis in an adult patient

Resumen Se presenta el caso de una paciente de 46 años de edad con cinco años de evolución de episodios intermitentes de hemoptisis cuyo diagnóstico final fue hemosiderosis pulmonar idiopática. Su presentación y características clínicas son comparadas con los otros casos reportados en la literatura.

Abstract The case of a 46-year-old patient with five years of evolution of intermittent episodes of hemoptysis whose final diagnosis was idiopathic pulmonary hemosiderosis is reported. Its presentation and clinical characteristics are compared with the other cases reported in the literature.