Plasmodium falciparum alters the trophoblastic barrier and stroma villi organization of human placental villi explants.

BACKGROUND: The sequestration of Plasmodium falciparum infected erythrocytes in the placenta, and the resulting inflammatory response affects maternal and child health. Despite existing information, little is known about the direct impact of P. falciparum on the placental barrier formed by trophoblast and villous stroma. This study aimed to assess placental tissue damage caused by P. falciparum in human placental explants (HPEs). METHODS: HPEs from chorionic villi obtained of human term placentas (n = 9) from normal pregnancies were exposed to P. falciparum-infected erythrocytes (IE) for 24 h. HPEs were embedded in paraffin blocks and used to study tissue damage through histopathological and histochemical analysis and apoptosis using TUNEL staining. Culture supernatants were collected to measure cytokine and angiogenic factors and to determine LDH activity as a marker of cytotoxicity. A subset of archived human term placenta paraffin-embedded blocks from pregnant women with malaria were used to confirm ex vivo findings. RESULTS: Plasmodium falciparum-IE significantly damages the trophoblast layer and the villous stroma of the chorionic villi. The increased LDH activity and pathological findings such as syncytial knots, fibrin deposits, infarction, trophoblast detachment, and collagen disorganization supported these findings. The specific damage to the trophoblast and the thickening of the subjacent basal lamina were more pronounced in the ex vivo infection. In contrast, apoptosis was higher in the in vivo infection. This disparity could be attributed to the duration of exposure to the infection, which significantly varied between individuals naturally exposed over time and the 24-h exposure in the ex vivo HPE model. CONCLUSION: Exposure to P. falciparum-IE induces a detachment of the syncytiotrophoblast, disorganization of the stroma villi, and an increase in apoptosis, alterations that may be associated with adverse results such as intrauterine growth restriction and low birth weight.

Malaria in Pregnancy in Endemic Regions of Colombia: High Frequency of Asymptomatic and Peri-Urban Infections in Pregnant Women with Malaria.

Background: Malaria in pregnancy (MiP) has been associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. There is limited information on MiP in low transmission regions as Colombia. This study aimed to describe the epidemiology of MiP through active surveillance of infections by microscopy and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between May 2016 and January 2017 in five municipalities (Apartadó, Turbo, El Bagre, Quibdó, and Tumaco) in Colombia. Pregnant women self-presenting at health centers for antenatal care visits, seeking medical care for suspected malaria, or delivery, were enrolled. Diagnosis of Plasmodium spp was made in peripheral and placental blood samples by microscopy and PCR. Results: A total of 787 pregnant women were enrolled; plasmodial infection was diagnosed by microscopy in 4.2% (95% CI 2.8-5.6; 33/787) or by nPCR in 5.3% (95% CI 3.8-6.9; 42/787) in peripheral blood. Most of the infections were caused by P. falciparum (78.5%), and 46% were afebrile (asymptomatic). Women in the first and second trimester of pregnancy were more likely to be infected (aOR = 3.06, 95%CI = 1.6 - 5.8). To live in the urban/peri-urban area (aOR = 3.04, 95%CI = 1.4 - 6.56), to have a history of malaria during last year (aOR = 5.45, 95%IC = 2.16 - 13.75), and the infrequent bed net usage (aOR = 2.8, 95%CI = 1.31 - 5.97) were associated with the infection. Pregnant infected women had a higher risk of anaemia (aOR = 2.18, 95%CI = 1.15 - 4.12) and fever (aOR = 14.2, 95%CI = 6.89 - 29.8). Conclusion: The screening for malaria during antenatal care in endemic areas of Colombia is highly recommended due to the potential adverse effects of Plasmodium spp. infection in pregnancy and as an important activity for the surveillance of asymptomatic infections in the control of malaria.

Diagnostic accuracy of loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) for screening malaria in peripheral and placental blood samples from pregnant women in Colombia.

BACKGROUND: Pregnant women frequently show low-density Plasmodium infections that require more sensitive methods for accurate diagnosis and early treatment of malaria. This is particularly relevant in low-malaria transmission areas, where intermittent preventive treatment is not recommended. Molecular methods, such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) are highly sensitive, but require sophisticated equipment and advanced training. Instead, loop mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) provides an opportunity for molecular detection of malaria infections in remote endemic areas, outside a reference laboratory. The aim of the study is to evaluate the performance of LAMP for the screening of malaria in pregnant women in Colombia. METHODS: This is a nested prospective study that uses data and samples from a larger cross-sectional project conducted from May 2016 to January 2017 in three Colombian endemic areas (El Bagre, Quibdó, and Tumaco). A total of 531 peripheral and placental samples from pregnant women self-presenting at local hospitals for antenatal care visits, at delivery or seeking medical care for suspected malaria were collected. Samples were analysed for Plasmodium parasites by light microscopy (LM), rapid diagnostic test (RDT) and LAMP. Diagnostic accuracy endpoints (sensitivity, specificity, predictive values, and kappa scores) of LM, RDT and LAMP were compared with nested PCR (nPCR) as the reference standard. RESULTS: In peripheral samples, LAMP showed an improved sensitivity (100.0%) when compared with LM 79.5% and RDT 76.9% (p < 0.01), particularly in afebrile women, for which LAMP sensitivity was two-times higher than LM and RDT. Overall agreement among LAMP and nPCR was high (kappa value = 1.0). Specificity was similar in all tests (100%). In placental blood, LAMP evidenced a four-fold improvement in sensitivity (88.9%) when compared with LM and RDT (22.2%), being the only method, together with nPCR, able to detect placental infections in peripheral blood. CONCLUSIONS: LAMP is a simple, rapid and accurate molecular tool for detecting gestational and placental malaria, being able to overcome the limited sensitivity of LM and RDT. These findings could guide maternal health programs in low-transmission settings to integrate LAMP in their surveillance systems for the active detection of low-density infections and asymptomatic malaria cases.

[Phenotypic variability of cystic fibrosis: case report of twins with F508/F508 mutation]. / Variabilidad fenotípica de la fibrosis quística: reporte de 2 gemelos con la mutación F508/F508.

INTRODUCTION: Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an autosomal recessive disease caused by a mutation in the CFTR gene, resulting in an alteration of a protein involved in sodium and chloride transport in the apical plasma membrane of epithelial cells in respiratory and intestinal tracts. It primarily presents respiratory compromise, affecting other systems in different ways. Meconium ileus is a gastrointestinal manifestation that occurs in 10-20% of patients, which is not entirely attributable to a specific CFTR mutation. OBJECTIVE: To report a case of monozygotic twins diagnosed with CF (F508) in whom phenotypic variation is evident based on the expression of meconium ileus, showing that there are external modifiers in the development of this complication. CASE REPORT: monoamniotic monochorionic twin pregnancy which resulted in preterm births. One of the patient presented meconium ileus at birth leading to CF suspicion and establishing the diagnosis by (F508/F508) molecular analysis in both twins. CONCLUSION: Phenotypic variability in these twins supports the hypothesis proposed by different authors that there are other gene expression-modulation factors of the disease as well as environmental modifiers that must be taken into account when dealing with this disease.

Assessment of the Integrity and Function of Human Term Placental Explants in Short-Term Culture.

Human placental explants (HPEs) culture has generated significant interest as a valuable in vitro model for studying tissue functions in response to adverse conditions, such as fluctuations in oxygen levels, nutrient availability, exposure to pathogenic microorganisms, and toxic compounds. HPEs offers the advantage of replicating the intricate microenvironment and cell-to-cell communication involved in this critical and transient organ. Although HPEs culture conditions have been extensively discussed, a protocol for assessing the viability and function of HPEs during short-term culture has not been previously outlined. In this study, we have developed a short-term HPEs culture protocol, specifically up to 72 h, and have employed quantitative, semi-quantitative, and qualitative analyses to evaluate tissue viability and function over time. Under our standardized conditions, placental villi explants began to regain their structural properties (the integrity of the trophoblast and villous stroma) and the functionality of the HPEs (production of angiogenic, endocrine, and immunological factors) starting from 48 h of culture. This restoration ensures a suitable environment for several applications. The data presented here can be highly valuable for laboratories aiming to implement an HPEs model, whether in the process of standardization or seeking to enhance and optimize working conditions and timing with placental tissue.

Induction of pro-inflammatory response of the placental trophoblast by Plasmodium falciparum infected erythrocytes and TNF.

BACKGROUND: Plasmodium falciparum placental malaria is characterized by the sequestration of infected erythrocytes (IEs) in the placental intervillous space via adherence to chondroitin sulphate A (CSA), production of inflammatory molecules, and leukocytes infiltration. Previous reports suggest that the syncytiotrophoblast (ST) immunologically responds to IEs contact. This study explores the inflammatory response induced in BeWo cells by adherence of IEs and TNFstimulation. METHODS: A non-syncitialized BeWo cells (trophoblast model) were used to evaluate its response to CSA-adherents IEs (FCB1csa, FCB2csa, FCR3csa, 3D7csa) and TNF stimulation. Expression of membrane ICAM-1 (mICAM-1) receptor in BeWo cells was quantified by flow cytometry and the IL-8, IL-6 and soluble ICAM-1 (sICAM-1) concentrations were quantified by enzyme-linked immunosorbentassay (ELISA) in BeWo stimulated supernatants. RESULTS: BeWo cells stimulated with TNF and CSA-adherents IEs of FCB1csa and 3D7csa (strains with higher adhesion) increase the expression of ICAM-1 on the surface of cells and the secretion of immune factors IL-8, IL-6 and sICAM-1. This inflammatory response appears to be related to the level of adherence of IEs because less adherent strains do not induce significant changes. CONCLUSIONS: It was found that BeWo cells responds to CSA-IEs and to TNF favouring a placental pro-inflammatory environment, evidenced by increases in the expression of membrane mICAM-1 and release of soluble ICAM-1, as well as the IL-8 and IL-6 secretion. The expression of ICAM-1 in BeWo cells might be associated to an increase in leukocyte adhesion to the trophoblast barrier, promoting greater inflammation, while the sICAM-1 release could be a protection mechanism activated by trophoblastic cells, in order to regulate the local inflammatory response.

Alteraciones en el nervio óptico y retina en pacientes con COVID-19. Una revisión teórica.

The objective of this research is to identify and systematize the medical conditions generated by SARS-CoV-2 on the optic nerve and retina of young, adult, and elderly adults who suffered from COVID-19 in the period 2019-2022. A theoretical documentary review (TDR) was conducted within the framework of an investigation to determine the current state of knowledge of the subject under study. The TDR includes the analysis of publications in the scientific databases PubMed/Medline, Ebsco, Scielo and Google. A total of 167 articles were found, of which 56 were studied in depth, and these evidence the impact of COVID-19 infection on the retina and optic nerve of infected patients, both during the acute phase and in subsequent recovery. Among the reported findings, the following stand out: anterior and posterior non-arteritic ischemic optic neuropathy, optic neuritis, central or branch vascular occlusion, paracentral acute medial maculopathy, neuroretinitis, as well as concomitant diagnoses such as possible Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada disease, multiple evanescent white dot syndrome (MEWDS), Purtscher-like retinopathy, among others.

[Therapeutic efficacy of a regimen of artesunate-mefloquine-primaquine treatment for Plasmodium falciparum malaria and treatment effects on gametocytic development]. / Estudio piloto de la eficacia y de los efectos sobre los gametocitos del esquema artesunato-mefloquina-primaquina para la malaria por Plasmodium falciparum.

INTRODUCTION: The treatment of Plasmodium falciparum malaria requires a safe and effective therapeutic treatment regimen, which in turn has high impact on the transmission. In 2006, an artesunate (AS)-mefloquine (MQ) treatment program was implemented in Antioquia. In addition, primaquine (PQ) was added to eliminate malaria gametocytes in the bloodstream. OBJECTIVE: The efficacy and gametocytocidal activity was evaluated for two treatment regimens, AS-MQ-PQ and AS-MQ, in patients with uncomplicated P. falciparum malaria. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between April 2007 and February 2008, 50 patients were recruited for the trial in Turbo, Antioquia. A randomized clinical trial was conducted. Treatment compliance was supervised, with a clinical and parasitological assessment on days 1, 2, 3, 7, 14, 21, 28, 35, and 42 to evaluate response rate according to the WHO 2003 protocol. RESULTS: Clinical response and parasite elimination efficacy of AS-MQ (with or without PQ) was 100% (95% CI 86.3%-100%), and parasitemia and fever were absent on day 3 of treatment in all patients. Gametocyte elimination was superior when PQ was used--92% (95% CI: 74%-99%) of patients who received PQ had no gametocytes on day 3, compared to 78.3% (95% CI: 59%-93%) of patients who only received AS-MQ. Furthermore, circulating gametocytes were eliminated on average one week faster when the AS-MQ-PQ treatment scheme was used compared to the scheme without PQ. CONCLUSION: These studies recommend the use of AS-MQ to treat P. falciparum malaria given its good therapeutic efficacy. However, further assessment is suggested concerning the benefit of adding PQ to this treatment scheme.

Performance of a highly sensitive rapid diagnostic test (HS-RDT) for detecting malaria in peripheral and placental blood samples from pregnant women in Colombia.

BACKGROUND: Pregnancy poses specific challenges for the diagnosis of Plasmodium falciparum infection due to parasite sequestration in the placenta, which translates in low circulation levels in peripheral blood. The aim of this study is to assess the performance of a new highly sensitive rapid diagnostic test (HS-RDT) for the detection of malaria in peripheral and placental blood samples from pregnant women in Colombia. METHODS: This is a retrospective study using 737 peripheral and placental specimens collected from pregnant women in Colombian malaria-endemic regions. Light microscopy (LM), conventional rapid diagnostic tests (Pf/Pv RDT and Pf RDT), and HS-RDT testing were performed. Diagnostic accuracy endpoints of LM, HS-RDT and RDTs were compared with nested polymerase chain reaction (nPCR) as the reference test. RESULTS: In comparison with nPCR, the sensitivity of HS-RDT, Pf RDT, Pf/Pv RDT and LM to detect infection in peripheral samples was 85.7% (95% CI = 70.6-93.7), 82.8% (95% CI = 67.3-91.9), 77.1% (95% CI = 61.0-87.9) and 77.1% (95% CI = 61.0-87.9) respectively. The sensitivity to detect malaria in asymptomatic women, was higher with HS-RDT, where LM and Pf/Pv RDT missed half of infections detected by nPCR, but differences were not significant. Overall, specificity was similar for all tests (>99.0%). In placental blood, the prevalence of infection by P. falciparum by nPCR was 2.8% (8/286), by HS-RDT was 1% and by conventional RDTs (Pf RDT and Pf/Pv RDT) and LM was 0.7%. The HS-RDT detected placental infections in peripheral blood that were negative by LM and Pf/Pv RDT, however the number of positive placentas was low. CONCLUSIONS: The sensitivity of HS-RDT to detect P. falciparum infections in peripheral and placental samples from pregnant women was slightly better compared to routinely used tests during ANC visits and at delivery. Although further studies are needed to guide recommendations on the use of the HS-RDT for malaria case management in pregnancy, this study shows the potential value of this test to diagnose malaria in pregnancy in low-transmission settings.

Plasmodium falciparum isolates from patients with uncomplicated malaria promote endothelial inflammation.

The ability of Plasmodium falciparum infected erythrocytes (Pf-IEs) to activate endothelial cells has been described; however, the interaction of the endothelium with Pf-IEs field isolates from patients has been less characterized. Previous reports have shown that isolates alter the endothelial permeability and apoptosis. In this study, the adhesion of 19 uncomplicated malaria isolates to Human Dermal Microvascular Endothelial Cells (HDMEC), and their effect on the expression of ICAM-1 and proinflammatory molecules (sICAM-1, IL-6, IL-8, and MCP-1) was evaluated. P. falciparum isolates adhered to resting and TNFα-activated HDEMC cells at different levels. All isolates increased the ICAM-1 expression on the membrane (mICAM-1) of HDMEC and increased the release of its soluble form (sICAM-1), as well the production of IL-6, IL-8 and MCP-1 by HDMEC with no signs of cell apoptosis. No correlation between parasite adhesion and production of cytokines was observed. In conclusion, isolates from uncomplicated malaria can induce a proinflammatory response in endothelial cells that may play a role during the initial inflammatory response to parasite infection; however, a continuous activation of the endothelium can contribute to pathogenesis.

Wound healing activity of Allium cepaL. bulbs in a second-degree burn wound model in Holtzman rats / Actividad cicatrizante de los bulbos de Allium cepa L. en un modelo de quemadura de segundo grado en ratas Holtzman

Background: The bulb of Allium cepa Linnaeus (onion) is used in traditional medicine as an antidiabetic, antioxidant, antihypertensive, anti-inflammatory, and antihyperlipidemic, among others. The lack of information or little knowledge about the effects of Allium cepa L. on skin lesions, specifically burn wounds, arouses interest in studying its effects on these skin disorders. Objective: This study assessed the wound healing activity of Allium cepa L. on second-degree burns induced in Holtzman rats. Method: Thirty-two albino rats were randomly distributed into four groups of 8 rats each, including the Healthy group, the Control group, the Experimental group (Alliumcepa L.), and the Standard group (1% silver sulfadiazine). Burn wounds were induced, and topical treatments were performed daily for 21 days. The reduction of the burned body area (mm2) was determined during the experimental time. Albino rats were sacrificed with an excess of surgical anesthesia to obtain tissue samples for histopathological analysis. Results: Standard and experimental groups significantly reduced burned body area (p<0.01) compared to the control group. Histopathological studies showed hyperemic chorion in the Control group, fibroblasts, and collagen in the Standard group, and dermis composed of a reticular stratum of fibroblasts, collagen, and few blood vessels in the Experimental group. Conclusion: Allium cepa L. revealed wound-healing activity on burns induced in Holtzman rats and reduced the damage produced by burns

Antecedentes: El bulbo de Alliumcepa L. (cebolla) se utiliza en medicina tradicional como antidiabético, antioxidante, antihipertensivo, antiinflamatorio, anti hiperlipidémico entre otros. La falta de información o muy poco conocimiento acerca de los efectos de Allium. cepa L. en lesiones cutáneas, específicamente en las heridas por quemaduras, despierta el interés por estudiar sus efectos en estas afectaciones cutáneas. Objetivo: El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar la actividad cicatrizante de Allium. cepa L. en quemaduras de segundo grado inducidas en ratas Holtzman. Método: Se utilizaron treinta y dos ratas albinas distribuidas al azar en cuatro grupos de ocho ratas cada uno, incluyendo el Grupo sano, el Grupo Control, el Grupo Experimental (Allium cepa L.) y el Grupo Estándar (Sulfadiazina de plata al 1%). Se indujo la herida por quemadura, y los tratamientos tópicos se realizaron diariamente durante 21 días. La reducción del área corporal quemada (mm2) se determinó durante el tiempo de experimentación, luego los animales fueron sacrificados con exceso de anestesia quirúrgica para obtener las muestras de tejidos para el estudio histopatológico. Resultados: Los grupos estándar y experimental mostraron reducción significativa en el área corporal quemada (p<0,01) comparadas al grupo control. El estudio histopatológico evidenció corion hiperémico en el grupo control; fibroblastos y colágeno en el grupo estándar y dermis integrada por un estrato reticular de fibroblastos, colágeno y pocos vasos sanguíneos en el grupo experimental. Conclusión: Alliumcepa L. reveló actividad cicatrizante en quemaduras inducidas en ratas Holtzman, y disminuyó el daño producido por las quemaduras

[Human papilloma virus and Chlamydia trachomatis by number of sexual partners and time of sexual activity on university students in the Region of La Araucanía, Chile]. / Virus papiloma humano y Chlamydia trachomatis según número de parejas sexuales y tiempo de actividad sexual en estudiantes universitarias en la Región de La Araucanía, Chile.

BACKGROUND: Human papilloma virus (HPV) and Chlamydia trachomatis are the most prevalent sexually transmitted infections (STIs), among teenagers and young people, with risk factors: active sex life and multiple partners. Chlamydia trachomatis infection may favor HPV infection and this, the development of cervical cancer. Both infections can lead to consequences on sexual and reproductive health. OBJECTIVE: To determine frequency of HPV and C. trachomatis in asymptomatic university women less than 25 years, associating them with number of sexual partners (n°SxP) and time of sexual activity (TSxA). Material andMethods: 151 cervical samples for HPV and C. trachomatis, were processed by conventional and in real time reaction polymerase chain. RESULTS: HPV 21, 8%, C. trachomatis 11, 2% and co-infection (HPV/C.trachomatis), 4.6%. Aimong HPV +, 80, 6% showed high risk HPV. The n°SxP was strongly associated with HPV. Aimong young coinfected HPV/C. trachomatis, 71.4% had 3 or more PSx. Chlamydia trachomatis was more frequent (64,7%) that HPV within range of 3-5 years according to the TSxA, Discussion: A high prevalence of HPV and C. trachomatis was observed. Young women with coinfection HPV/C. trachomatis could be a high-risk group need to monitor their infections. It suggests the implementation of university programs in education, counseling and prevention in sexual health.

Phytochemical screening and hepatoprotective potential of Niphidium albopunctatissimum Lellinger on alcoholic hepatoxicity induced in albino rats / Tamizaje fitoquímico y potencial hepatoprotector de Niphidium albopunctatissimum Lellinger en la hepatoxicidad alcohólica inducida en ratas albinas

OBJECTIVES: To identify the phytoconstituents and determine the effect of Niphidium albopunctatissimum Lellinger on alcoholic hepatoxicity induced in albino rats. METHODS: Phytochemical screening was performed using the drop Test. For hepatoxicity study, albino rats were randomized into 5 groups of 6 each. Healthy group: without hepatoxicity; Control group: hepatotoxicity; Curative group: hepatotoxicity plus fluid extract of N. albopunctatissimum Lellinger; Standard group: hepatotoxicity plus silymarin; Preventive group: Fluid extract of N. albopunctatissimum Lellinger for one week, then hepatotoxicity. Hepatotoxicity was induced with 56% (w / v) ethanol at doses of 7.6 mL / kg p.c every 12 hours for 7 days. Glutamic pyruvic transaminase (GPT) values were determined at baseline, 7 days after induction and 14 days after. A histopathological study of the livers was performed. RESULTS: Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of polyphenols, anthocyanidins, saponins, flavonoids and tannins. The preventive and standard groups showed a very significant decrease in serum GPT levels compared to control group (p < 0.01), and curative group did so significantly (p < 0.05). Histopathological analysis showed in curative group some degenerating hepatocytes, many with normal-looking cytoplasm; the preventive and standard groups presented hepatocytes with normal architecture and some in degeneration, unlike the evident degeneration and necrosis in control group. CONCLUSION: Niphidium albopunctatissimum Lellinger may have hepatoprotective potential against alcoholic toxicity induced in albino rats

OBJETIVOS: Identificar los fitoconstituyentes y determinar el efecto de Niphidium albopunctatissimum Lellingeren la hepatoxicidad alcohólica inducida en ratas albinas. MÉTODOS: El tamizaje fitoquímico se realizó mediante la Prueba de la gota. Para el efecto en la hepatoxicidad, las ratas albinas fueron distribuidas al azar en 5 grupos de 6 cada uno, Grupo sano: Sin hepatoxicidad, Grupo Control: hepatotoxicidad, Grupo Curativo: hepatotoxicidad más extracto fluído de N. albopunctatissimum Lellinger, Grupo Patrón: hepatotoxicidad más silimarina y Grupo Preventivo: extracto fluido de N. albopunctatissimum Lellinger por una semana, luego hepatotoxicidad. La hepatotoxicidad se indujo con etanol 56% (p/v) en dosis de 7,6 mL/kg p.c cada 12 horas por 7 días. Se determinaron valores de Glutámico pirúvica transaminasa (GPT) al inicio, a los 7 días de inducción y a los 14 días. Se realizó el estudio histopatológico a los hígados. RESULTADOS: El tamizaje fitoquímico reveló presencia de polifenoles, antocianidinas, saponinas, flavonoides y taninos. Los grupos preventivo y patrón evidenciaron disminución muy significativa de niveles séricos de GPT en comparación con el grupo control (p< 0,01), y el grupo curativo lo hizo de manera significativa (p < 0,05). El análisis histopatológico evidenció en el grupo curativo algunos hepatocitos en degeneración, muchos con citoplasma de aspecto normal; los grupos preventivo y patrón presentaron hepatocitos con arquitectura normal y algunos en degeneración, a diferencia de la evidente degeneración y necrosis en el grupo control. CONCLUSIÓN: Niphidium albopunctatissimum Lellinger puede tenerpotencial hepatoprotector frente a la toxicidad alcohólica inducida en ratas albinas

Eco-epidemiological aspects of Trypanosoma cruzi, Trypanosoma rangeli and their vector (Rhodnius pallescens) in Panama.

The eco-epidemiology of T. cruzi infection was investigated in the Eastern border of the Panama Canal in Central Panama. Between 1999 and 2000, 1110 triatomines were collected: 1050 triatomines (94.6%) from palm trees, 27 (2.4%) from periurban habitats and 33 (3.0%) inside houses. All specimens were identified as R. pallescens. There was no evidence of vector domiciliation. Salivary glands from 380 R. pallescens revealed a trypanosome natural infection rate of 7.6%, while rectal ampoule content from 373 triatomines was 45%. Isoenzyme profiles on isolated trypanosomes demonstrated that 85.4% (n = 88) were T. cruzi and 14.6% (n = 15) were T. rangeli. Blood meal analysis from 829 R. pallescens demonstrated a zoophilic vector behavior, with opossums as the preferential blood source. Seroprevalence in human samples from both study sites was less than 2%. Our results demonstrate that T. cruzi survives in the area in balanced association with R. pallescens, and with several different species of mammals in their natural niches. However, the area is an imminent risk of infection for its population, consequently it is important to implement a community educational program regarding disease knowledge and control measures.

Potencial antihiperglicémico de Gentianella gilgiana (Reimers) Fabris ex J.S. Pringle en la absorción intestinal de glucosa in vitro en ratas albinas diabéticas / Antihyperglycemic potential of Gentianella gilgiana (Reimers) Fabris ex J.S. Pringle for in vitro intestinal glucose absorption in diabetic albino rats

Objetivo: Evaluar el potencial antihiperglicémico de la infusión de Gentianella gilgiana (Reimers) Fabris ex J.S. Pringle en la absorción intestinal de glucosa in vitro en Rattus norvegicus cepa Holtzman con diabetes inducida químicamente. Materiales y métodos: Estudio de tipo experimental y analítico. Se realizó el tamizaje fitoquímico de la planta. Para el estudio in vitro se utilizaron veinte ratas albinas machos, a las que se les indujo diabetes utilizando aloxano monohidratado (Sigma-Aldrich, Saint Louis, MO, EE. UU.) en dosis de 120 mg/kg p.c, vía intraperitoneal, y luego fueron distribuidas al azar en dos grupos de diez ratas albinas cada uno. Luego de diez días fueron sacrificados para extraerles un segmento intestinal con la técnica del saco intestinal evertido, y medir el transporte y absorción de glucosa. En el grupo control (intestinos evertidos incubados en solución Krebs-Henseleit glucosado) y en el grupo experimental (intestinos incubados en solución Krebs Henseleit glucosado más la infusión de Gentianella gilgiana al 10% p/v), se tomaron muestras basales de los líquidos de incubación, luego otras muestras a los 15, 30, 45 y 60 minutos para cuantificar la glucosa de los compartimentos mucoso y seroso mediante el método enzimático de la glucosa oxidasa. Resultados: Se evidenciaron menores concentraciones de glucosa absorbida en compartimento seroso intestinal del grupo experimental (G. gilgiana) con diferencia estadísticamente significativa respecto al control (p< 0,05). Conclusiones: La infusión de Gentianella gilgiana (Reimers) Fabris ex J.S. Pringle presenta potencial antihiperglicémico significativo que disminuye la absorción intestinal de glucosa in vitro en ratas albinas diabéticas.

Objective: To evaluate the antihyperglycemic potential of the Gentianella gilgiana (Reimers) Fabris ex J.S. Pringle infusion for in vitro intestinal glucose absorption in Rattus norvegicus of the Holtzman strain with chemically-induced diabetes. Materials and methods: The study had an experimental and analytical design. A phytochemical screening of the whole plant was carried out. For the in vitro study, twenty male albino rats were induced with diabetes using alloxan monohydrate (Sigma-Aldrich, Saint Louis, MO, USA) at a dose of 120 mg/kg bw administered by intraperitoneal route, and then randomly distributed into two groups of ten albino rats each. After ten days, they were sacrificed to extract an intestinal segment using the everted intestinal sac technique, and measure the glucose transport and absorption. In the control group (everted intestines incubated in Krebs-Henseleit solution containing glucose) and the experimental group (intestines incubated in Krebs-Henseleit solution containing glucose plus the Gentianella gilgiana (Reimers) Fabris ex J.S. Pringle infusion at 10% w/v), basal samples of fluids were taken from incubation, and then other samples were taken at 15, 30, 45 and 60 minutes to quantify the glucose from the mucous and serous compartments using the glucose oxidase enzymatic method. Results: Lower concentrations of absorbed glucose were observed in the intestinal serous compartment of the experimental group (G. gilgiana) with a statistically significant difference compared to the control group (p <0.05). Conclusions: The Gentianella gilgiana (Reimers) Fabris ex J.S. Pringle infusion exhibits a significant antihyperglycemic potential by decreasing the in vitro intestinal glucose absorption in diabetic albino rats.

[Pathogenic mechanisms in Plasmodium falciparum malaria]. / Mecanismos de patogenia en la malaria por Plasmodium falciparum.

The most recognized pathogenic mechanisms of the infection with Plasmodium falciparum, during both the erythrocytic and exo-erythrocytic stages are presented. Vascular obstruction explained by the sequestration of parasitized red blood cells and erythrocyte rosetting, mediated by different endothelial ligands and receptors, in addition to the inflammatory processes induced by the presence of the parasite, are central aspects in the pathogenesis of malaria that explain the processes of damage, dysfunction and cell death in various organs. Alterations such as increased vascular permeability, hypoxia and anaerobic metabolism leading to localized lesions in organs such as brain and lung, as well as to a generalized acidotic state with multisystem failure can be explained by events such as the injury and destruction of erythrocytes, hepatocytes and endothelial cells, the loss of endothelial integrity, and the activation of cell damage and apoptosis promoters.

Virus papiloma humano y Chlamydia trachomatis según número de parejas sexuales y tiempo de actividad sexual en estudiantes universitarias en la Región de La Araucanía, Chile / Human papilloma virus and Chlamydia trachomatis by number of sexual partners and time of sexual activity on university students in the Region of La Araucanía, Chile

Introducción: El virus papiloma humano (VPH) y Chlamydia trachomatis son las infecciones de transmisión sexual (ITS) más frecuentes, en adolescentes y jóvenes, con factores de riesgo: vida sexual activa y múltiples parejas. Chlamydia trachomatis puede favorecer el ingreso de VPH y éste el desarrollo del cáncer cérvico uterino. Ambas infecciones pueden dejar secuelas en la salud sexual y reproductiva. Objetivo: Determinar frecuencias VPH y C trachomatis en estudiantes universitarias asinto-máticas bajo 25 años, asociándolas con número de parejas sexuales (n°PSx) y tiempo de actividad sexual (TASx). Material y Método: Se procesaron 151 muestras/exo y endo cervicales para VPH y C. trachomatis, mediante reacción de polimerasa en cadena convencional y en tiempo real. Resultados: La frecuencia fue: VPH 21,8%, C. trachomatis 11,2% y co-infección 4,6%. De las jóvenes con infección por VPH, 80,6% presentó VPH alto riesgo oncogénico. El n°PSx se asoció fuertemente a VPH. Entre las jóvenes con co-infección VPH/C. trachomatis, 71,4% tenían tres o más PSx. Según TASx, C. trachomatis fue más frecuente (64,7%) entre 3-5 años que VPH. Conclusión: Se observó alta prevalencia de VPH y C trachomatis. Mujeres jóvenes con co-infección VPH/C. trachomatis podrían ser un grupo de alto riesgo con necesidad de mo-nitorear sus infecciones. Es sugerida la implementación de programas universitarios en educación, orientación y prevención en ITS.

Background: Human papilloma virus (HPV) and Chlamydia trachomatis are the most prevalent sexually transmitted infections (STIs), among teenagers and young people, with risk factors: active sex life and multiple partners. Chlamydia trachomatis infection may favor HPV infection and this, the development of cervical cancer. Both infections can lead to consequences on sexual and reproductive health. Objective: To determine frequency of HPV and C. trachomatis in asymptomatic university women less than 25 years, associating them with number of sexual partners (n°SxP) and time of sexual activity (TSxA). Material andMethods: 151 cervical samples for HPV and C. trachomatis, were processed by conventional and in real time reaction polymerase chain. Results: HPV 21, 8%, C. trachomatis 11, 2% and co-infection (HPV/C.trachomatis), 4.6%. Aimong HPV +, 80, 6% showed high risk HPV. The n°SxP was strongly associated with HPV. Aimong young coinfected HPV/C. trachomatis, 71.4% had 3 or more PSx. Chlamydia trachomatis was more frequent (64,7%) that HPV within range of 3-5 years according to the TSxA, Discussion: A high prevalence of HPV and C. trachomatis was observed. Young women with coinfection HPV/C. trachomatis could be a high-risk group need to monitor their infections. It suggests the implementation of university programs in education, counseling and prevention in sexual health.

Variabilidad fenotípica de la fibrosis quística: reporte de 2 gemelos con la mutación F508/F508 / Phenotypic variability of cystic fibrosis: case report of twins with F508/F508 mutation

Introduction: Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an autosomal recessive disease caused by a mutation in the CFTR gene, resulting in an alteration of a protein involved in sodium and chloride transport in the apical plasma membrane of epithelial cells in respiratory and intestinal tracts. It primarily presents respiratory compromise, affecting other systems in different ways. Meconium ileus is a gastrointestinal manifestation that occurs in 10-20% of patients, which is not entirely attributable to a specific CFTR mutation. Objective: To report a case of monozygotic twins diagnosed with CF (F508) in whom phenotypic variation is evident based on the expression of meconium ileus, showing that there are external modifiers in the development of this complication. Case report: monoamniotic monochorionic twin pregnancy which resulted in preterm births. One of the patient presented meconium ileus at birth leading to CF suspicion and establishing the diagnosis by (F508/F508) molecular analysis in both twins. Conclusion: Phenotypic variability in these twins supports the hypothesis proposed by different authors that there are other gene expression-modulation factors of the disease as well as environmental modifiers that must be taken into account when dealing with this disease.

Introducción: La fibrosis quística (FQ) es una enfermedad autosómica recesiva debida a una mutación en el gen CFTR, resultando en una alteración de una proteína implicada en el transporte de sodio y cloro en la membrana apical de células del epitelio respiratorio y gastrointestinal; presenta principalmente compromiso respiratorio, afectando otros sistemas de manera variable. El íleo meconial es una manifestación gastrointestinal presente en 10-20% de los pacientes, no del todo atribuible una mutación específica del CFTR. Objetivo: Reportar un caso de dos gemelos monocigóticos con diagnóstico de FQ (ΔF508), en quienes es evidente la variabilidad fenotípica en cuanto a la expresión de íleo meconial, poniendo de manifiesto que existen modificadores externos a la mutación en el desarrollo de esta complicación. Reporte de caso: Gemelos producto de embarazo monocorial monoamniotico, nacidos pretérmino, uno de ellos presenta íleo meconial al nacimiento lo que lleva al estudio de FQ, estableciendo el diagnóstico por análisis molecular (ΔF508/ΔF508) en ambos gemelos. Conclusión: La variabilidad fenotípica en estos gemelos apoya la hipótesis planteada por diferentes autores de que existen otras factores genéticos moduladores de la expresión de la enfermedad, así como modificadores ambientales, que deben ser tenidos en cuenta a la hora de abordar esta enfermedad.

Mecanismos de patogenia en la malaria por Plasmodium falciparum / Pathogenic mechanisms in Plasmodium falciparum malaria

Se presentan los mecanismos patogénicos más conocidos en la infección por Plasmodium falciparum durante la fase eritrocitaria y extraeritrocitaria. La obstrucción vascular, explicada por los fenómenos de secuestro de glóbulos rojos parasitados y la formación de rosetas, mediados por diversos ligandos y receptores endoteliales, además de los procesos inflamatorios instaurados ante la presencia del parásito, son aspectos centrales en la patogenia de la malaria que permiten explicar. A partir de eventos como la lesión y la destrucción de eritrocitos, hepatocitos y células endoteliales, la pérdida de integridad del endotelio y la activación de promotores de daño celular y de apoptosis, se explican alteraciones como el aumento de la permeabilidad vascular, la hipoxia y el metabolismo anaerobio, que conducen tanto a lesiones localizadas en órganos como cerebro y pulmón, como a un estado de acidosis generalizada y falla multisistémica.

The most recognized pathogenic mechanisms of the infection with Plasmodium falciparum, during both the erythrocytic and exo-erithrocytic stages are presented. Vascular obstruction explained by the sequestration of parasitized red blood cells and erythrocyte rosetting, mediated by different endothelial ligands and receptors, in addition to the inflammatory processes induced by the presence of the parasite, are central aspects in the pathogenesis of malaria that explain the processes of damage, dysfunction and cell death in various organs. Alterations such as increased vascular permeability, hypoxia and anaerobic metabolism leading to localized lesions in organs such as brain and lung, as well as to a generalized acidotic state with multisystem failure can be explained by events such as the injury and destruction of erythrocytes, hepatocytes and endothelial cells, the loss of endothelial integrity, and the activation of cell damage and apoptosis promoters.

Estudio piloto de la eficacia y de los efectos sobre los gametocitos del esquema artesunato-mefloquina-primaquina para la malaria por Plasmodium falciparum / Therapeutic efficacy of a regimen of artesunate-mefloquine-primaquine treatment for Plasmodium falciparum malaria and treatment effects on gametocytic development

Introducción. El tratamiento de la malaria por P. falciparum requiere de un esquema seguro, eficaz y de impacto en la transmisión. En 2006, se implementó en Antioquia el esquema artesunato-mefloquina y se adicionó primaquina para eliminar los gametocitos. Objetivo. Evaluar la eficacia y acción gametocida de los esquemas artesunato-mefloquina-primaquina y artesunato-mefloquina en pacientes con malaria no complicada por P. falciparum de Turbo, Antioquia. Materiales y métodos. Ensayo clínico aleatorio; los tratamientos se suministraron de forma supervisada y se realizó seguimiento clínico-parasitológico en los días 1, 2, 3, 7, 14, 21, 28, 35, y 42, para evaluar la respuesta según el protocolo OMS-2003 modificado. Resultados. Entre abril de 2007 y febrero de 2008, 50 pacientes fueron reclutados; los resultados mostraron una eficacia de 100% (IC95% 86,3%-100%) para el esquema artesunato-mefloquina (con/sin primaquina); la parasitemia y la fiebre fueron eliminadas completamente al tercer día de tratamiento en todos los pacientes. La eliminación de gametocitos fue mayor con el uso de primaquina; al tercer día de seguimiento, el 92% (IC95% 74%-99%) de los pacientes que recibieron primaquina no tuvieron gametocitos, en comparación con 78,3% (IC95% 59%-93%) de pacientes del grupo artesunato-mefloquina. Además, el esquema artesunato-mefloquina-primaquina eliminó la gametocitemia una semana antes que el esquema sin primaquina. Conclusión. Se recomienda el uso del esquema artesunato-mefloquina para la malaria por P. falciparum por su alta eficacia y se sugieren futuras evaluaciones del beneficio de la PQ en la reducción de la densidad y prevalencia de gametocitos.

Introduction. The treatment of Plasmodium falciparum malaria requires a safe and effective therapeutic treatment regimen, which in turn has high impact on the transmission. In 2006, an artesunate (AS)-mefloquine (MQ) treatment program was implemented in Antioquia. In addition, primaquine (PQ) was added to eliminate malaria gametocytes in the bloodstream. Objective. The efficacy and gametocytocidal activity was evaluated for two treatment regimens, AS-MQ-PQ and AS-MQ, in patients with uncomplicated P. falciparum malaria. Materials and methods. Between April 2007 and February 2008, 50 patients were recruited for the trial in Turbo, Antioquia. A randomized clinical trial was conducted. Treatment compliance was supervised, with a clinical and parasitological assessment on days 1, 2, 3, 7, 14, 21, 28, 35, and 42 to evaluate response rate according to the WHO 2003 protocol. Results. Clinical response and parasite elimination efficacy of AS-MQ (with or without PQ) was 100% (95% CI 86.3%-100%), and parasitemia and fever were absent on day 3 of treatment in all patients. Gametocyte elimination was superior when PQ was used--92% (95% CI: 74%-99%) of patients who received PQ had no gametocytes on day 3, compared to 78.3% (95% CI: 59%-93%) of patients who only received AS-MQ. Furthermore, circulating gametocytes were eliminated on average one week faster when the AS-MQ-PQ treatment scheme was used compared to the scheme without PQ. Conclusion. These studies recommend the use of AS-MQ to treat P. falciparum malaria given its good therapeutic efficacy. However, further assessment is suggested concerning the benefit of adding PQ to this treatment scheme.