Big is not better: Comparing two alpha-Gal-bearing glycotopes in neoglycoproteins as biomarkers for Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis infection.

The protozoan parasite Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis is among Latin America's most widespread Leishmania species and is responsible for tegumentary leishmaniasis (TL). This disease has multiple clinical presentations, with cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) being the most frequent. It manifests as one or a few localized skin ulcers, which can spread to other body areas. Hence, early diagnosis and treatment, typically with pentavalent antimonials, is critical. Traditional diagnostic methods, like parasite culture, microscopy, or the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for detection of the parasite DNA, have limitations due to the uneven distribution of parasites in biopsy samples. Nonetheless, studies have revealed high levels of parasite-specific anti-α-Gal antibodies in L. (V.) braziliensis-infected patients. Previously, we demonstrated that the neoglycoprotein NGP28b, consisting of the L. (Leishmania) major type-2 glycoinositolphospholipid (GIPL)-3-derived trisaccharide Galpα1,6Galpα1,3Galfß conjugated to bovine serum albumin (BSA) via a linker, acts as a reliable serological biomarker (BMK) for L. (V.) braziliensis infection in Brazil. This indicates the presence of GIPL-3 or a similar structure in this parasite, and its terminal trisaccharide either functions as or is part of an immunodominant glycotope. Here, we explored whether extending the trisaccharide with a mannose unit would enhance its efficacy as a biomarker for the serological detection of L. (V.) braziliensis. We synthesized the tetrasaccharide Galpα1,6Galpα1,3Galfß1,3Manpα(CH2)3SH (G31SH) and conjugated it to maleimide-functionalized BSA to afford NGP31b. When we assessed the efficacy of NGP28b and NGP31b by chemiluminescent enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay on a cohort of CL patients with L. (V.) braziliensis infection from Bolivia and Argentina against a healthy control group, both NGPs exhibited similar or identical sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy. This finding implies that the mannose moiety at the reducing end is not part of the glycotope recognized by the parasite-specific anti-α-Gal antibodies in patients' sera, nor does it exert a relevant influence on the terminal trisaccharide's conformation. Moreover, the mannose does not seem to inhibit glycan-antibody interactions. Therefore, NGP31b is a viable and dependable BMK for the serodiagnosis of CL caused by L. (V.) braziliensis.

Deep serological profiling of the Trypanosoma cruzi TSSA antigen reveals different epitopes and modes of recognition by Chagas disease patients.

BACKGROUND: Trypanosoma cruzi, the agent of Chagas disease, displays a highly structured population, with multiple strains that can be grouped into 6-7 evolutionary lineages showing variable eco-epidemiological traits and likely also distinct disease-associated features. Previous works have shown that antibody responses to 'isoforms' of the polymorphic parasite antigen TSSA enable robust and sensitive identification of the infecting strain with near lineage-level resolution. To optimize the serotyping performance of this molecule, we herein used a combination of immunosignaturing approaches based on peptide microarrays and serum samples from Chagas disease patients to establish a deep linear B-cell epitope profiling of TSSA. METHODS/PRINCIPLE FINDINGS: Our assays revealed variations in the seroprevalence of TSSA isoforms among Chagas disease populations from different settings, hence strongly supporting the differential distribution of parasite lineages in domestic cycles across the Americas. Alanine scanning mutagenesis and the use of peptides of different lengths allowed us to identify key residues involved in antibody pairing and the presence of three discrete B-cell linear epitopes in TSSAII, the isoform with highest seroprevalence in human infections. Comprehensive screening of parasite genomic repositories led to the discovery of 9 novel T. cruzi TSSA variants and one TSSA sequence from the phylogenetically related bat parasite T. cruzi marinkellei. Further residue permutation analyses enabled the identification of diagnostically relevant or non-relevant substitutions among TSSA natural polymorphisms. Interestingly, T. cruzi marinkellei TSSA displayed specific serorecognition by one chronic Chagas disease patient from Colombia, which warrant further investigations on the diagnostic impact of such atypical TSSA. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE: Overall, our findings shed new light into TSSA evolution, epitope landscape and modes of recognition by Chagas disease patients; and have practical implications for the design and/or evaluation of T. cruzi serotyping strategies.

Consumo de ayudas ergogénicas nutricionales y farmacéuticas en personas que asisten a gimnasios del municipio de Cercado, Cochabamba

Dado el problema de salud pública que plantean los esteroides anabólicos, el consumo de ayudas ergogénicas está aumentando a nivel mundial, no es en Bolivia. Además, existe un consumo desmedido de suplementos nutricionales y farmacéuticos, así como efectos reversibles e irreversibles de los esteroides anabólicos. Objetivos: describir cómo se consumen las ayudas ergogénicas nutricionales y farmacéuticas y cómo los asistentes a gimnasios en el municipio Cercado de Cochabamba perciben sus efectos en su salud. Métodos: se realizó un estudio observacional transversal con 378 participantes mayores de 18 años, (estratificada) divididos en cuatro grupos; Amateur, Fitness, Deportista y en nueve gimnasios y dos grupos (NABBA-IFFB) y deportistas en general en el área metropolitana de Cercado Cochabamba. Resultados: se encontró que el 74,6% consume alguna sustancia que mejoran el rendimiento; el consumo de ayudas ergogénicas nutricionales fue del 57,1%(n=216) y farmacológicas el 17,4% (n=66). El tiempo dedicado a entrenamiento y dieta para el grupo amateur es estadísticamente significativo con un valor de (p<0,05). Los efectos percibidos y reportados por el consumo de ayudas ergogénicas farmacológicas (esteroides anabólicos androgénicos) son principalmente cambios de humor, alteración en la libido y acné. Entre los efectos secundarios irreversibles dos casos de hombres desarrollaron ginecomastia y dos mujeres desarrollaron clítoromegalia. Conclusiones: los usuarios de ejercicio en el gimnasio consumen grandes cantidades de sustancias nutricionales y/o farmacológica que mejoran el rendimiento.

Given the public health problem posed by anabolic steroids, the consumption of ergogenic aids is increasing worldwide, not indifferently in Bolivia. In addition, there is an excessive consumption of nutritional and pharmaceutical supplements, as well as reversible and irreversible effects of anabolic steroids. Objectives: to describe how nutritional and pharmaceutical ergogenic aids are consumed and how gym-goers in the Cercado municipality of Cochabamba perceive their effects on their health. Methods: a crosssectional observational study was conducted with 378 participants over 18 years of age, (stratified) divided into four groups; Amateur, Fitness, Athlete and in 9 gyms and 2 groups (NABBA-IFFB) and athletes in general in the metropolitan area of Cercado Cochabamba. Results: it was found that 74.6% consumed some performance-enhancing substance; the consumption of nutritional ergogenic aids was 57.1% (n=216) and pharmacological aids 17.4% (n=66). Time dedicated to training and diet for the amateur group is statistically significant with a value of (p<0.05). The perceived and reported effects of the consumption of pharmacological ergogenic aids (anabolic androgenic steroids) are mainly mood changes, libido alteration and acne. Among the irreversible side effects 2 cases of men developed gynecomastia and 2 women developed clitoromegaly. Conclusions: exercise users in the gym consume large amounts of nutritional and/or pharmacological performance enhancing substances.

Results and evaluation of the expansion of a model of comprehensive care for Chagas disease within the National Health System: The Bolivian Chagas network.

BACKGROUND: Most people with chronic Chagas disease do not receive specific care and therefore are undiagnosed and do not receive accurate treatment. This manuscript discusses and evaluates a collaborative strategy to improve access to healthcare for patients with Chagas in Bolivia, a country with the highest prevalence of Chagas in the world. METHODS: With the aim of reinforcing the Chagas National Programme, the Bolivian Chagas Platform was born in 2009. The first stage of the project was to implement a vertical pilot program in order to introduce and consolidate a consensual protocol-based healthcare, working in seven centers (Chagas Platform Centers). From 2015 on the model was extended to 52 primary healthcare centers, through decentralized, horizontal scaling-up. To evaluate the strategy, we have used the WHO ExpandNet program. RESULTS: The strategy has significantly increased the number of patients cared for, with 181,397 people at risk of having T. cruzi infection tested and 57,871 (31·9%) new diagnostics performed. In those with treatment criteria, 79·2% completed the treatment. The program has also trained a significant number of health personnel through the specific Chagas guidelines (67% of healthcare workers in the intervention area). CONCLUSIONS: After being recognized by the Chagas National Programme as a healthcare model aligned with national laws and priorities, the Bolivian platform of Chagas as an innovation, includes attributes that they have made it possible to expand the strategy at the national level and could also be adapted in other countries.

New regimens of benznidazole monotherapy and in combination with fosravuconazole for treatment of Chagas disease (BENDITA): a phase 2, double-blind, randomised trial.

BACKGROUND: Current treatment for Chagas disease with the only available drugs, benznidazole or nifurtimox, has substantial limitations, including long treatment duration and safety and tolerability concerns. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of new benznidazole monotherapy regimens and combinations with fosravuconazole, in the treatment of Chagas disease. METHODS: We did a double-blind, double-dummy, phase 2, multicentre, randomised trial in three outpatient units in Bolivia. Adults aged 18-50 years with chronic indeterminate Chagas disease, confirmed by serological testing and positive qualitative PCR results, were randomly assigned (1:1:1:1:1:1:1) to one of seven treatment groups using a balanced block randomisation scheme with an interactive response system. Participants were assigned to benznidazole 300 mg daily for 8 weeks, 4 weeks, or 2 weeks, benznidazole 150 mg daily for 4 weeks, benznidazole 150 mg daily for 4 weeks plus fosravuconazole, benznidazole 300 mg once per week for 8 weeks plus fosravuconazole, or placebo, with a 12-month follow-up period. The primary endpoints were sustained parasitological clearance at 6 months, defined as persistent negative qualitative PCR results from end of treatment, and incidence and severity of treatment-emergent adverse events, serious adverse events, and adverse events leading to treatment discontinuation. Primary efficacy analysis was based on the intention-to-treat and per-protocol populations and secondary efficacy analyses on the per-protocol population. Safety analyses were based on the as-treated population. Recruitment is now closed. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03378661. FINDINGS: Between Nov 30, 2016, and July 27, 2017, we screened 518 patients, and 210 were enrolled and randomised. 30 patients (14%) were assigned to each treatment group. All 210 randomised patients were included in the intention-to-treat population, and 190 (90%) were included in the per-protocol population. In the intention-to-treat analysis, only one (3%) of 30 patients in the placebo group had sustained parasitological clearance at 6 months of follow-up. Sustained parasitological clearance at 6 months was observed in 25 (89%) of 28 patients receiving benznidazole 300 mg daily for 8 weeks (rate difference vs placebo 86% [95% CI 73-99]), 25 (89%) of 28 receiving benznidazole 300 mg daily for 4 weeks (86% [73-99]), 24 (83%) of 29 receiving benznidazole 300 mg daily for 2 weeks (79% [64-95]), 25 (83%) of 30 receiving benznidazole 150 mg daily for 4 weeks (80% [65-95]), 23 (85%) of 28 receiving benznidazole 150 mg daily for 4 weeks plus fosravuconazole (82% [67-97]), and 24 (83%) of 29 receiving benznidazole 300 mg weekly for 8 weeks plus fosravuconazole (79% [64-95]; p<0·0001 for all group comparisons with placebo). Six patients (3%) had ten serious adverse events (leukopenia [n=3], neutropenia [n=2], pyrexia, maculopapular rash, acute cholecystitis, biliary polyp, and breast cancer), eight had 12 severe adverse events (defined as interfering substantially with the patient's usual functions; elevated alanine aminotransferase [n=4], elevated gamma-glutamyltransferase [n=2], elevated aspartate aminotransferase [n=1], neutropenia [n=3], leukopenia [n=1], and breast cancer [n=1]), and 15 (7%) had adverse events that led to treatment discontinuation (most of these were in the groups who received benznidazole 300 mg daily for 8 weeks, benznidazole 300 mg once per week for 8 weeks plus fosravuconazole, and benznidazole 150 mg daily for 4 weeks plus fosravuconazole). No adverse events leading to treatment discontinuation were observed in patients treated with benznidazole 300 mg daily for 2 weeks or placebo. There were no treatment-related deaths. INTERPRETATION: Benznidazole induced effective antiparasitic response, regardless of treatment duration, dose, or combination with fosravuconazole, and was well tolerated in adult patients with chronic Chagas disease. Shorter or reduced regimens of benznidazole could substantially improve treatment tolerability and accessibility, but further studies are needed to confirm these results. FUNDING: Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative (DNDi). TRANSLATION: For the Spanish translation of the abstract see Supplementary Materials section.

El Estigma Social Asociado a la Enfermedad de Chagas

Resumen Objetivos: identificar a partir de relatos individuales y familiares los componentes del estigma social asociado a un diagnóstico de Chagas positivo. Métodos: el estudio recopila los testimonios de tres familias a través de entrevistas a profundidad que fueron grabadas, cuyo contenido fue estructurado y luego compartido entre los investigadores a través de un proceso de triangulación. Resultados: se identificaron las diferentes formas de estigma social, experimentado, percibido, anticipado, así como el autoestigma, el estigma por asociación y comportamientos de discriminación; lo que conlleva el aislamiento social, refuerza los miedos tradicionalmente relacionados a esta enfermedad, y provoca tensiones intrafamiliares. El estigma social y el silencio que lo acompaña son serias barreras de acceso a la consulta médica y al tratamiento antiparasitario. Conclusiones: Es importante tomar en cuenta aspectos de tipo psico-socio-cultural en las estrategias de atención integral de Chagas, principalmente en los programas de información, educación, comunicación (IEC) y durante la consulta médica. Para romper el estigma y el silencio que lo acompaña, es indispensable integrar las personas afectadas por Chagas y otros actores de la sociedad civil en el diseño de esas estrategias.

Abstract Objectives: to identify the components of social stigma associated with a positive diagnosis of Chagas disease based on individual and family accounts. Methods: The study compiles the testimonies of 3 families through in-depth interviews that were recorded, the content of which was structured and then shared among the researchers through a process of triangulation. Results: different forms of social stigma, experienced, perceived, anticipated, as well as self-stigma, stigma by association and discriminatory behaviours were identified, leading to social isolation, reinforcing traditional fears associated with the disease, and causing intra-familial tensions. Social stigma and the silence that accompanies it are serious barriers to access to medical consultation and deworming treatment. Conclusions: It is important to take into account psycho-socio-cultural aspects in strategies for comprehensive care of Chagas disease, especially in information, education and communication (IEC) programmes and during the medical consultation. Also, to break the stigma and the silence surrounding it, it's essential to integrate people affected by Chagas and other civil society actors into the conception of these programs.

Conducta sexual y reproductiva durante la adolescencia de los estudiantes de la Universidad Mayor de San Simón / Sexual and reproductive behavior during adolescence of students of the San Simon University

OBJETIVOS: analizar los factores relacionados con la conducta sexual de riesgo, durante la adolescencia de los estudiantes de la Universidad Mayor de San Simón, gestión 2018. MÉTODOS: estudio retrospectivo, de cohorte, el muestreó fue no probabilístico con criterios de inclusión y exclusión. Se aplicó una encuesta auto administrada en cuatro sitios diferentes de la universidad. El análisis de los datos se realizó con el programa Epi-info v.7.2, empleando análisis uni y bivariado, como medidas de asociación OR, chi2 con un valor de p significante menor o igual a 0,05. RESULTADOS: la proporción de participantes que iniciaron su vida sexual activa durante la adolescencia fue del 50%, de estos el 31% no utiliza ningún método anticonceptivo y el 69% si utiliza algún método de anticoncepción, de los cuales el 46% prefiere utilizar el preservativo masculino o la píldora del día siguiente. Se encontró una relación significativa del inicio de vida sexual precoz (antes de los 16 años) con las variables: ser varón, provenir de una familia disfuncional, poco acceso a fuentes de información sobre sexualidad, consumo de sustancias psicoactivas antes de la relación sexual y el haber tenido una pareja sexual informal o casual. CONCLUSIÓN: una conducta sexual adecuada en el adolescente depende en gran medida de un entorno familiar funcional y del acceso adecuado a información sobre sexualidad y reproducción. La prevención de embarazos no deseados y de infecciones de transmisión sexual en adolescentes debe centrarse también en el entorno familiar y de la sociedad del adolescente.(AU)

OBJECTIVES: to analyze factors related to sexual risk behavior during the adolescence of students at the San Simón University, management 2018. METHODS: retrospective cohort study, sampling was non-probability with inclusion and exclusion criteria. A self-administered survey wasapplied in 4 different sites of the university. The analysis of the data was carried out with the program Epi-info v.7.2, using uni and bivariate analysis, as association measures OR, chi2 with a significant p value less than or equal to 0.05. RESULTS: the proportion of participants who began their active sexual life during adolescence was 50%, of whom 31% do not use any contraceptive method and 69% if they use any method of contraception, of whom 46% prefer to use the male condom or the morning-after pill. A significant relationship of early sexual debut (before age 16) was found with the variables: being male, coming from a dysfunctional family, little access to sources of information about sexuality, consumption of psychoactive substances before sexual intercourse, and having had an informal or casual sexual partner. CONCLUSIONS: adequate sexual behavior in the adolescent depends to a large extent on a functional family environment and adequate access to information on sexuality and reproduction. The prevention of unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections in adolescents must also focus on the adolescent's family environment and society.(AU)

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.

A strategy for scaling up access to comprehensive care in adults with Chagas disease in endemic countries: The Bolivian Chagas Platform.

BACKGROUND: Bolivia has the highest prevalence of Chagas disease (CD) in the world (6.1%), with more than 607,186 people with Trypanosoma cruzi infection, most of them adults. In Bolivia CD has been declared a national priority. In 2009, the Chagas National Program (ChNP) had neither a protocol nor a clear directive for diagnosis and treatment of adults. Although programs had been implemented for congenital transmission and for acute cases, adults remained uncovered. Moreover, health professionals were not aware of treatment recommendations aimed at this population, and research on CD was limited; it was difficult to increase awareness of the disease, understand the challenges it presented, and adapt strategies to cope with it. Simultaneously, migratory flows that led Bolivian patients with CD to Spain and other European countries forced medical staff to look for solutions to an emerging problem. INTERVENTION: In this context, thanks to a Spanish international cooperation collaboration, the Bolivian platform for the comprehensive care of adults with CD was created in 2009. Based on the establishment of a vertical care system under the umbrella of ChNP general guidelines, six centres specialized in CD management were established in different epidemiological contexts. A common database, standardized clinical forms, a and a protocolized attention to adults patients, together with training activities for health professionals were essential for the model success. With the collaboration and knowledge transfer activities between endemic and non-endemic countries, the platform aims to provide care, train health professionals, and create the basis for a future expansion to the National Health System of a proven model of care for adults with CD. RESULTS: From 2010 to 2015, a total of 26,227 patients were attended by the Platform, 69% (18,316) were diagnosed with T. cruzi, 8,567 initiated anti-parasitic treatment, more than 1,616 health professionals were trained, and more than ten research projects developed. The project helped to increase the number of adults with CD diagnosed and treated, produce evidence-based clinical practice guidelines, and bring about changes in policy that will increase access to comprehensive care among adults with CD. The ChNP is now studying the Platform's health care model to adapt and implement it nationwide. CONCLUSIONS: This strategy provides a solution to unmet demands in the care of patients with CD, improving access to diagnosis and treatment. Further scaling up of diagnosis and treatment will be based on the expansion of the model of care to the NHS structures. Its sustainability will be ensured as it will build on existing local resources in Bolivia. Still human trained resources are scarce and the high staff turnover in Bolivia is a limitation of the model. Nevertheless, in a preliminary two-years-experience of scaling up this model, this limitations have been locally solved together with the health local authorities.

Caracterización de la infestación de viviendas por Aedes aegypti en el área metropolitana de Cochabamba, Bolivia: nuevos registros altitudinales / Characterization of dwellings' infestation by Aedes aegypti in the metropolitan area of Cochabamba, Bolivia: new altitudinal records

La rápida proliferación del vector en áreas de clima cálido y baja altitud, como el oriente y la amazonia boliviana, generó la necesidad de analizar la adaptabilidad del A. aegypti en zonas templadas, tal es el caso de los valles mesotérmicos de la ciudad metropolitana de Cochabamba. La evaluación entomológica se realizó en una muestra de 264 viviendas seleccionadas al azar en Abril del 2016. El área de estudio abarca zonas urbanas de seis municipios (Cercado, Sacaba, Colcapirhua, Tiquipaya, Quillacollo y Vinto) del departamento de Cochabamba. El diseño para el estudio fue epidemiológico, transversal de diagnóstico comunitario. De la muestra referida, 100 viviendas se encontraron larvas de A. aegypti , que corresponde a un 38% de infestación larvaria y un Índice Breteau de 1,0. Las llantas, turriles y recipientes desechables son un factor de riesgo para la propagación y adaptación del vector en nuestra región. Los hallazgos confirman la dispersión del A. aegypti con algunas regiones con mayor prevalencia (zona sud de cercado urbano, Colcapirhua y Quillacollo en el valle bajo). También se evidenció por primera vez que la dispersión y colonización de larvas de A. aegypti en el área de estudio alcanzó una altura mínima de 2 538 m/s/n/m. y una altura máxima de 2 623 m.s.n.m. La prevención y el control de A. aegypti , en la metrópoli de Cochabamba va a requerir un trabajo mancomunado integral e intersectorial enfocados en una estrategia de intervención de gestión socioambiental de corresponsabilidad y participación comunitaria, generando como resultado un Manejo Integrado del Vector.

The fast proliferation of the vector at warm weather and low altitude over the sea level, such as the Bolivian valleys (as Cochabamba city), generates the need to analyze the adaptability of A. aegypti . This study of comunitary diagnosis, was developed at the metropolitan area of Cochabamba city, it confirms an spread A. aegypti , shown by georeferences of identified focus of high prevalence (sud of the city, Colcapirhua and Quillacollo as a low valley). For the first time this vector spread, reached between 2 538 to 2 623 meters over sea level. From 264 inspected houses over the city, 100 cases were found positive for A. aegypti (38%) (Breteau Index: 1,0). According to the study, tires, barrels and small containers are a risk factor for the spread and adaptation of the vector in our region. Prevention and control of A. aegypti in the metropolis of Cochabamba will require an integrated and intersectoral joint work, focused on a strategy of intervention socio-environmental and community participation, generating results in an Integrated Vector Management.

Evaluación de la contaminación microbiológica de la lechuga (lactuca sativa) en la cadena alimentaria, provincia de Quillacollo, Cochabamba, Bolivia 2015 / Evaluation of microbiological contamination of lettuce (Lactuca sativa) in the food chain, province of Quillacollo, Cochabamba, Bolivia 2015

Las enfermedades transmitidas por alimentos constituyen un problema de salud, diversos estudios demuestran la alta contaminación microbiológica de la lechuga en la cadena alimentaria. El objetivo de la presente investigación fue evaluar la contaminación microbio-lógica de la lechuga (Lactuca sativa) en la cadena alimentaria, en la provincia Quillacollo-Cochabamba-Bolivia. Muestras de lechugas fueron tomadas en los meses de abril y mayo, con el mismo de número de muestras, en tres puntos de la cadena alimentaria: parcelas de producción (localidad Combuyo), puestos de venta de lechuga y de comida de los Mercados 9 de diciembre y Central de Quillacollo. El procesamiento de las muestras fue realizado en los laboratorios de Microbiología de LABIMED, y Post Grado de Medicina Tropical de la Facultad de Medicina, UMSS. Los resultados demuestran la contaminación de las lechugas con bacterias Aerobias Mesófilas, colifor-mes totales y fecales en concentraciones superiores a los estándares permitidos en los tres puntos de la cadenas alimentaria evaluadas; identificándose Salmonella sp en una de las muestras de lechugas procesada de los puestos de venta de comida de los mercados. La contaminación parasitaria fue evidenciada en los puestos de venta solo en el mes de mayo en 83% (n=10) de las 12 muestras analizadas, detectándose quistes de Entamoeba coli y larvas de Strongyloides sp, contaminación relacionada con la utilización de abono de aves en el cultivo y la manipulación inadecuada de la lechuga en la cadena alimentaria. En conclusión podemos indicar que las lechugas presentan una importante contaminación microbiana en los tres puntos evaluados de la cadena alimentaria, por lo que constituye un riego para la salud pública.

Infectious diseases transmitted by food, are considered a public health issue, several studies shown the high microbiological contamination of the letucce in particular (Lactuca sativa). The aim of this study was to evaluate the contamination of letucce at Quillacollo Province of Cochabamba- Bolivia. The samples were taken between april and may, with the same number of samples at production plots (Combuyo location), and at selling places of vegetables and food (markets) such as "9 de diciembre” market and "Central Quillacollo” market. The samples were processed at LABIMED laboratories (microbiology, and Tropical Medicine Post grade of medicine Faculty of San Simón University). Results shows contamination of lettuce with Aerobic Mesophilic Bacterias, and total coliforms and fecal coliforms, in higher concentration than standard allowed, at any point of chain food that has been evaluate; Sallmonella sp was identify at selling points with 83% of the samples and only at the month of may (n=10 of 12 samples examined) also Entamoeba coli cysts and Strongyloides sp worms; the contamination was associate with bird fertilizer at crops and at inapropiate food management of the lettuce. Therefore we can conclude that lettuce's contamination is present at the three evaluated points of its chain, production selling points until consume, wich must be considered as a public health risk.

Estandarización de la técnica para la obtención de trypomastigotes en células 3T3 a partir de una cepa local de epimastigotes de Tripanosoma cruzi / Acquisition mode pesticides and drugs in intoxicated patients treated in emergency Hospital Clínico Viedma

Objetivo: evaluar el empleo de cultivos celulares para la obtención de tripomastigotes en células 3T3, a partir de una cepa local de epimastigotes de Tripanosoma cruzi. Método: se realizó cultivo in vitro de células 3T3 en medio DMEM-SBF al 10% más penicilina estreptomicina, a 37°C, 95% de humedad y 5% de CO2 al séptimo día, fueron infectados con epimastigotes de T. cruzi cepa TcV, aislados de pacientes con Chagas agudo y cultivados preliminarmente en medios bifásicos como NNN y LIT. Resultados: a los 14 días de infección se observó al parásito en las formas: de amastigotes (forma intracelular), posteriormente la tripomastigote (forma extracelular) que fueron liberados al medio una vez lisadas las células infectadas. Posteriores sub cultivos de células 3T3 con trypomastigotes obtenidos a partir de los epimastigotes mejoran la obtención de T. cruzi. Conclusiones: es posible la obtención de trypomastigotes a partir de una cepa local de epimastigotes recreando el ciclo biológico del parásito in vitro.

Objective: to evaluate the use of cell cultures for the production of trypomastigotes in 3T3 cells, from a local strain of Trypanosoma cruzi epimastigotes. Method: we previously performed growing 3T3 cells in DMEM-10% FBS more penicillin-streptomycin in vitro at 37 °C, 95% humidity and 5% CO2 on the seventh day, they were infected with T. cruzi epimastigotes TcV strain, isolated from patients with acute Chagas and preliminarily grown in biphasic media as NNN and LIT. Results: after 14 days of infection was observed the parasite forms: extracellular) that were released into the infected cells once lysed. Subsequent sub 3T3 cell cultures trypomastigotes obtained from epimastigotes obtaining improved T. cruzi-TcV. Conclusions: it is possible to obtain trypomastigotes from a local strain epimastigotes recreating the life cycle of the parasite in vitro.

Seroprevalence of Triatoma virus (Dicistroviridae: Cripaviridae) antibodies in Chagas disease patients.

BACKGROUND: Chagas disease is caused by Trypanosoma cruzi, and humans acquire the parasite by exposure to contaminated feces from hematophagous insect vectors known as triatomines. Triatoma virus (TrV) is the sole viral pathogen of triatomines, and is transmitted among insects through the fecal-oral route and, as it happens with T. cruzi, the infected insects release the virus when defecating during or after blood uptake. METHODS: In this work, we analysed the occurrence of anti-TrV antibodies in human sera from Chagas disease endemic and non-endemic countries, and developed a mathematical model to estimate the transmission probability of TrV from insects to man, which ranged between 0.00053 and 0.0015. RESULTS: Our results confirm that people with Chagas disease living in Bolivia, Argentina and Mexico have been exposed to TrV, and that TrV is unable to replicate in human hosts. CONCLUSIONS: We presented the first experimental evidence of antibodies against TrV structural proteins in human sera.

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

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 congénito y orientación a mujeres en edad fértil. Con ese propósito se realizó una búsqueda extensiva de la literatura, empleando una combinación de términos MeSH (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 sintetizó, clasificó y organizó 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.

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. In order 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/congenital " , " prevention and control " , " diagnosis " , " therapeutics " and " pregnancy " . 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-toface 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.

Co-infección por Trypanosoma Cruzi y VIH: reporte de un caso de meningoencefalitis chagásica en Cochabamba, Bolivia / Co-infections by trypanosoma cruzi and hiv: report of a case of meningoencephalitis Cochabamba Bolivia

La co-infección de la enfermedad de Chagas con el VIH puede ser una patología frecuente en países donde las dos enfermedades son endémicas, un 70 % de los casos de Chagas crónico se reactivan en los pacientes infectados con VIH y con menos de 200 CD4 cel/pl de sangre dando con mayor frecuencia lesiones a nivel del SNC con meningoencefalitis. El tratamiento de estos casos de reactivación de la infección por T cruz/es una urgencia para disminuir el alto riesgo de mortalidad debida a la asociación de las dos patología. Presentamos, en un paciente varón, un caso de reactivación de una infección crónica de Chagas, la cual se presenta como un cuadro de meningoencefalitis y confirmada por la demostración del parásito en LCR y sangre periférica, cuatro meses después de un tratamiento específico se observa una recaída del cuadro meningoencefálico.

The co-infection of Chagas disease with HIV can be a common in countries where both diseases are endemic, 70% of cases of chronic Chagas reactivated in HlV-infected patients with less than 200 CD4 / ul of blood giving more frequently CNS lesions with meningoencephalitis. The treatment of these cases of reactivation of infection by Tcruzíis an urgency to reduce the high risk of mortality due to the association of the two diseases. We report on a male patient, a case of reactivation of chronic Chagas infection, which is presented as a picture of meningoencephalitis and confirmed by demonstration of the parasite in CSF and peripheral blood, four months after specific treatment, we observed a relapse of the T. cruzi infection with a new picture of meningoencephalitis.

Gut hormones, appetite suppression and cachexia in patients with pulmonary TB.

BACKGROUND: Cachexia is a hallmark of pulmonary tuberculosis and is associated with poor prognosis. A better understanding of the mechanisms behind such weight loss could reveal targets for therapeutic intervention. The role of appetite-regulatory hormones in tuberculosis is unknown. METHODS AND FINDINGS: 41 subjects with newly-diagnosed pulmonary TB (cases) were compared to 82 healthy controls. We measured appetite, body mass index (BMI), % body fat (BF), plasma peptide YY (PYY), leptin, ghrelin, and resistin for all subjects. Measurements were taken at baseline for controls and at treatment days 0, 30, and 60 for cases. Baseline appetite, BMI, and BF were lower in cases than in controls and improved during treatment. PYY, ghrelin, and resistin were significantly elevated in cases and fell during treatment. Leptin was lower in cases and rose with treatment. Appetite was inversely related to PYY in cases. High pre-treatment PYY predicted reduced gains in appetite and BF. PYY was the strongest independent predictor of appetite in cases across all time points. CONCLUSIONS: Appetite-regulatory hormones are altered in TB patients. As hormones normalize during treatment, appetite is restored and nutritional status improves. High baseline PYY is an indicator of poor prognosis for improvement in appetite and nutrition during treatment. Wasting in TB patients may partly be mediated by upregulation of PYY with resulting appetite suppression.

Recommendations for management of Chagas disease in organ and hematopoietic tissue transplantation programs in nonendemic areas.

The substantial immigration into Spain from endemic areas of Chagas disease such as Latin America has increased the number of potential donors of organs and tissues. In addition, an increasing number of patients with advanced Chagas heart disease may eventually be eligible to receive a heart transplant, a universally accepted therapeutic strategy for the advanced stages of this disease. Therefore, it is necessary to establish protocols for disease management. This document is intended to establish the guidelines to be followed when a potential donor or a tissue or organ recipient is potentially affected by Chagas disease and summarizes the action criteria against the possibility of Chagas disease transmission through the donation of organs, tissues, or hematopoietic stem cells and aims to help professionals working in this field. A single registry of transplants in Trypanosoma cruzi infected donors and/or recipients will provide and disseminate experience in this area, which has shown a low recorded incidence to date.

Esporotricosisliinfaggitica / Lymphangitic Sporotrichosis

La esporotricosis es una infección micótica de evolución subaguda o crónica que puede afectar a humanos y animales, la cual está caracterizada por presentar lesiones nodulares cutáneas y subcutáneas, su incidencia varia en las distintas regiones de sudamerica. Se presenta el caso de un paciente varón de 28 años de edad con el diagnóstico de esporotricosis linfangítica, que tardó alrededor de tres meses en ser diagnosticado; se realiza un análisis y seguimiento de la evolución haciendo especial mención en los aspectos clínicos, diagnósticos y terapéuticos de esta enfermedad con la finalidad de alertar un diagnóstico precoz y tratamiento oportuno.

The esporotricosis is a mycotic infection of subacute or chronic evolution that can concern human beings and animáis, which is characterized for presenting nodular cutaneous and subcutaneous injuries, its incidente is different regions of sudamerica. There appears the case of a 28-year-old patient male of age with the diagnosis of esporotricosis linfangítica, that was late about three month in being diagnosed; there is realized an analysis and follow-up of the evolution doing special mention on the clinical, diagnostic and therapeutic aspects of this disease with the purpose of real a precocious diagnosis and opportune treatment.

Factores que inlluyen la adherencia a la suplemntación con sulfato ferroso durrante el embarazo / Factors influencing adherence to supplementation with iron sulfate during pregnancy

El uso de sulfato ferroso en la prevención de las anemias durante el embarazo es obligatorio y gratuito a la paciente por el SUMI, sin embargo, se desconoce el nivel de adherencia a la prescripción durante los controles prenatales y los factores que influyen en la falta de adherencia, la identificación de estos factores corresponde al objetivo de este trabajo. Se presenta un estudio tipo caso control llevado a cabo en 182 mujeres que se encontraban en su puerperio inmediato en el Hospital Materno Infantil Germán Urquidi entre agosto y septiembre del 2009, de las cuales 135 pacientes fueron catalogadas con mala adherencia (casos) y 47 con buena adherencia (controles). Se buscaron factores epidemiológicos, factores dependientes de la terapéutica, efectos adversos, relación médico-paciente y percepción/actitudes frente al medicamento. Resultados: La adherencia reportada fue del 26%. La falta de estudios de primaria completos (OR=2,12; p=0,0355), la presencia de náuseas (OR 3,05; p= 0,02) y el tiempo prolongado de tratamiento (OR 2,46; p=0,011) demostraron estadísticamente disminuir la adherencia a sulfato ferroso. Contribuyen con una buena adherencia la toma del medicamento en un horario regular (0R=0,49 p=0,01) y la confianza en el médico que prescribió el sulfato ferroso (OR 0,34 p=0,046). Para lograr una buena adherencia de las mujeres se debe reforzar la relación médico - paciente y la explicación sobre los efectos del medicamento de acuerdo al nivel de instrucción de la paciente.

The use of ferrous sulfate in the prevention of anemia during pregnancy is free and required for patients by the Universal Maternal Child Insurance (SUMI), however, the level of drug adherence at prenatal checkups and the factors influencing non-adherence are unknown. The purpose of this study is the identification of these factors. We present a case-control study of 182 women in the immediate postpartum period in the "German Urquidi Maternal Child Hospital" from August to September 2009, of which 135 patients were categorized with poor adherence (cases) and 47 women with good adherence (controls). We analyzed epidemiological factors, therapy-dependent factors, adverse effects, physician-patient relationships, and patient perception / attitudes towards medication. Results: The drug adherence was 26%. Incomplete primary education (OR = 2.12, p = 0.0355), presence of nausea (OR 3.05, p = 0.02) and the long time of treatment (OR 2.46, p=0.011) demonstrated a negative effect on drug adherence. Factors associated with good drug adherence were a strict regular dosing schedule (OR = 0.49, p = 0.01) and a trusting relationship with the prescribing physician (OR 0.34, p = 0.046). To achieve a good drug adherence should improve the relation doctor - patients and explanations about the drug's effects by level of education of the patient.