Genome Sequence Data Reveal at Least Two Distinct Incursions of the Tropical Race 4 Variant of Fusarium Wilt into South America.

The global banana industry is threatened by one of the most devastating diseases: Fusarium wilt of banana. Fusarium wilt of banana is caused by the soilborne fungus Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense (Foc), which almost annihilated the banana production in the late 1950s. A new strain of Foc, known as tropical race 4 (TR4), attacks a wide range of banana varieties, including Cavendish clones, which are the source of 99% of banana exports. In 2019, Foc TR4 was reported in Colombia, and more recently (2021) in Peru. In this study, we sequenced three fungal isolates identified as Foc TR4 from La Guajira (Colombia) and compared them against 19 whole-genome sequences of Foc TR4 publicly available, including four genome sequences recently released from Peru. To understand the genetic relatedness of the Colombian Foc TR4 isolates and those from Peru, we conducted a phylogenetic analysis based on a genome-wide set of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Additionally, we compared the genomes of the 22 available Foc TR4 isolates, looking for the presence-absence of gene polymorphisms and genomic regions. Our results reveal that (i) the Colombian and Peruvian isolates are genetically distant, which could be better explained by independent incursions of the pathogen to the continent, and (ii) there is a high correspondence between the genetic relatedness and geographic origin of Foc TR4. The profile of present/absent genes and the distribution of missing genomic regions showed a high correspondence to the clades recovered in the phylogenetic analysis, supporting the results obtained by SNP-based phylogeny.

Efficacy of Disinfectants against Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense Tropical Race 4 Isolated from La Guajira, Colombia.

Banana, the main export fruit for Colombia, is threatened by Fusarium wilt (FWB), caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense (Foc), tropical race 4 (TR4). Pathogen containment through disinfecting tools, machinery, shoes, and any means that may carry contaminated soil particles with proper disinfectants is at the forefront of disease management. In this study, the biocide efficacy of 10 commercial quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs) products and one based on glutaraldehyde (GA) were evaluated on both reproductive structures (microconidia and macroconidia) and survival spores (chlamydospores) of Foc TR4 (strain 140038) isolated from La Guajira, Colombia. QACs were evaluated at 1200 ppm and two exposure times: <1 and 15 min in the absence or presence of soil. For GA disinfectant, four different concentrations (500, 800, 1200, and 2000 ppm) were evaluated at both contact times in the presence of soil. In the absence of soil, all QACs showed 100% biocidal efficiency against microconidia, macroconidia, and chlamydospores at both <1 and 15 min. The presence of soil decreased the efficacy of disinfectants, but some of them, such as QAC3_1st, QAC7_4th, and QAC5_4th, showed 98%, 98%, and 100% efficacy against Foc TR4 chlamydospores, respectively, after <1 min of contact time. For instance, the GA-based disinfectant was able to eliminate all Foc TR4 propagules after 15 min for all concentrations tested.

Phylogeography, genetic diversity and population structure of the freshwater stingray, Paratrygon aiereba (Müller & Henle, 1841) (Myliobatiformes: Potamotrygonidae) in the Colombian Amazon and Orinoco basins.

The freshwater stingray Paratrygon aiereba have coloration, osteological and morphometric variations that could suggest the existence of more than one species in Colombia. In order to evaluate the phylogeography, population structure and genetic diversity for P. aiereba distributed in the Amazon and Orinoco basins, we amplified Cytochrome oxidase subunit 1 (COI) partial region of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) in 50 samples from eight different sub-basins. Our results suggest three phylogroups and a vicariance event occurred 43 million years ago proposing how Paratrygon diverged into the basins. A high population structure (ΦST = 0.692; p < 0.005) and a value of (K) of 3 were defined. A high genetic diversity within phylogroups was found: Phylogroup A (h = 0.64; π% = 2.48), Phylogroup B (h = 0.552; π% = 1.67), and Phylogroup C (h = 0.49; π% = 0.73). These results should be considered in local management plans, conservation programs and reclassification in at least Amazon and Orinoco.

Conceptos y directrices que orientan la atención primaria en salud en diversos territorios colombianos (2017) / Concepts and guidelines steering Primary Health Care in diverse Colombian territories (2017)

RESUMEN Objetivo Develar los conceptos sobre atención primaria en salud entre actores institucionales y comunitarios en diversos municipios de Colombia y señalar las directrices que orientan su implementación. Método Estudio multicasos en 13 municipios, con enfoque hermenéutico, empleando la técnica colcha de retazos en 21 talleres con diversos actores. Resultados Se encontraron cuatro tendencias conceptuales de atención primaria en salud: i) acceso a servicios de salud de calidad; ii) énfasis en acciones de promoción de la salud y prevención de la enfermedad; iii) atención básica en el primer nivel de complejidad y iv) perspectiva amplia, interesada por el derecho a la salud y la intervención de los determinantes sociales. El concepto predominante fue la atención básica prestada en el primer nivel de complejidad. La principal directriz fue el Plan Decenal de Salud Pública. Discusión la heterogeneidad de directrices y las diferencias conceptuales implican posturas que revelan apuestas ético-políticas en relación con la organización de los sistemas de salud y la justicia sanitaria. En Colombia persisten condiciones estructurales propias del modelo de aseguramiento que restringen la apropiación de una concepción integral y el desarrollo de una política pública basada en atención primaria en salud.(AU)

ABSTRACT Objective To unveil the concepts of Primary Health Care among institutional and community actors in diverse municipalities of Colombia and point out the health planning guidelines that steer its implementation. Method Multi-case study in 13 municipalities with a hermeneutical approach using the patchwork quilt technique in 21 workshops with different actors. Results Four conceptual trends in Primary Health Care were found: i) access to quality health services; ii) emphasis on actions to promote health and prevent disease; iii) basic care provided at the first level of complexity, and iv) a broad perspective, interested in the right to health and the intervention of social determinants. The predominant concept was basic care provided at the first level of complexity. The main guideline was the Ten-Year Public Health Plan. Discussion The heterogeneity of guidelines and the conceptual differences imply positions that reveal ethical-political stakes in relation to the organization of health systems and health justice. In Colombia, persisting structural conditions typical of the insurance model restrict the appropriation of a comprehensive conception and the development of a public policy based on Primary Health Care.(AU)

Genomic analyses reveal two species of the matamata (Testudines: Chelidae: Chelus spp.) and clarify their phylogeography.

The matamata is one of the most charismatic turtles on earth, widely distributed in northern South America. Debates have occurred over whether or not there should be two subspecies or species recognized due to its geographic variation in morphology. Even though the matamata is universally known, its natural history, conservation status and biogeography are largely unexplored. In this study we examined the phylogeographic differentiation of the matamata based on three mitochondrial DNA fragments (2168 bp of the control region, cytochrome oxidase subunit I, and the cytochrome b gene), one nuclear genomic DNA fragment (1068 bp of the R35 intron) and 1661 Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs). Our molecular and morphological analyses revealed the existence of two distinct, genetically deeply divergent evolutionary lineages of matamatas that separated in the late Miocene (approximately 12.7 million years ago), corresponding well to the time when the Orinoco Basin was established. As a result of our analyses, we describe the genetically and morphologically highly distinct matamata from the Orinoco and Río Negro Basins and the Essequibo drainage as a species new to science (Chelus orinocensis sp. nov.). Chelus fimbriata sensu stricto is distributed in the Amazon Basin and the Mahury drainage. Additionally, the analyses revealed that each species displays phylogeographic differentiation. For C. orinocensis, there is moderate mitochondrial differentiation between the Orinoco and the Río Negro. For C. fimbriata, there is more pronounced differentiation matching different river systems. One mitochondrial clade was identified from the Amazon, Ucayali, and Mahury Rivers, and another one from the Madeira and Jaci Paraná Rivers. The C. orinocensis in the Essequibo and Branco Rivers have haplotypes that constitute a third clade clustering with C. fimbriata. Phylogenetic analyses of the R35 intron and SNP data link the matamatas from the Essequibo and Branco with the new species, suggesting past gene flow and old mitochondrial introgression. Chelus orinocensis is collected for the pet trade in Colombia and Venezuela. However, neither the extent of the harvest nor its impact are known. Hence, it is crucial to gather more information and to assess its exploitation throughout its distribution range to obtain a better understanding of its conservation status and to design appropriate conservation and management procedures. RESUMEN: La matamata es una de las tortugas más carismáticas del mundo, ampliamente distribuida en el norte de Sudamérica. Debido a su variación morfológica geográfica, se debate sobre el reconocimiento de dos subespecies o especies. A pesar de que la matamata es universalmente conocida, su historia natural, estado de conservación y biogeografía han sido muy poco estudiados. En este estudio examinamos la diferenciación filogeográfica de las matamatas en base ​​a tres fragmentos de ADN mitocondrial (2168 pb de la región de control, la subunidad I del citocromo oxidasa y el gen del citocromo b), un fragmento de ADN genómico nuclear (1068 pb del intrón R35) y 1661 polimorfismos de nucleótido único (SNPs). Nuestros análisis moleculares y morfológicos revelaron la existencia de dos linajes evolutivos distintos de matamatas, genéticamente divergentes que se separaron en el Mioceno tardio (hace aproximadamente 12.7 millones de años), correspondiendo al tiempo en que se estableció la cuenca del Orinoco. Como resultado de nuestros análisis, describimos las genéticamente y morfológicamente distintas matamatas de las cuencas del Orinoco, Río Negro y Essequibo como una especie nueva para la ciencia (Chelus orinocensis sp. nov.). Chelus fimbriata sensu stricto se distribuye en la cuenca del Amazonas y en el drenaje del Mahury. Adicionalmente, los análisis revelaron que cada especie muestra diferenciación filogeográfica. Para C. orinocensis, hay una moderada diferenciación mitocondrial entre el Orinoco y el Río Negro. Para C. fimbriata, hay una diferenciación más pronunciada, concordando con los diferentes sistemas fluviales. Se identificó un clado de los ríos Amazonas, Ucayali y Mahury y otro de los ríos Madeira y Jaci Paraná. Las C. orinocensis de los ríos Essequibo y Branco tienen haplotipos que constituyen un tercer clado que se agrupa con C. fimbriata. Los análisis filogenéticos del intrón R35 y los datos de SNP asocian las matamatas de Essequibo y Branco con la nueva especie, sugiriendo flujo de genes pasado ​​e introgresión mitocondrial antigua. Chelus orinocensis se colecta para el comercio de mascotas en Colombia y Venezuela. Sin embargo, ni se conoce el alcance de las colectas ni su impacto. Por lo tanto, es crucial recopilar más información y evaluar su explotación en todo su rango de distribución, comprender mejor su estado de conservación y para diseñar acciones apropiadas de conservación y manejo.

[Concepts and guidelines steering Primary Health Care in diverse Colombian territories (2017)]. / Conceptos y directrices que orientan la atención primaria en salud en diversos territorios colombianos (2017).

OBJECTIVE: To unveil the concepts of Primary Health Care among institutional and community actors in diverse municipalities of Colombia and point out the health planning guidelines that steer its implementation. METHOD: Multi-case study in 13 municipalities with a hermeneutical approach using the patchwork quilt technique in 21 workshops with different actors. RESULTS: Four conceptual trends in Primary Health Care were found: i) access to quality health services; ii) emphasis on actions to promote health and prevent disease; iii) basic care provided at the first level of complexity, and iv) a broad perspective, interested in the right to health and the intervention of social determinants. The predominant concept was basic care provided at the first level of complexity. The main guideline was the Ten-Year Public Health Plan. DISCUSSION: The heterogeneity of guidelines and the conceptual differences imply positions that reveal ethical-political stakes in relation to the organization of health systems and health justice. In Colombia, persisting structural conditions typical of the insurance model restrict the appropriation of a comprehensive conception and the development of a public policy based on Primary Health Care.

OBJETIVO: Develar los conceptos sobre atención primaria en salud entre actores institucionales y comunitarios en diversos municipios de Colombia y señalar las directrices que orientan su implementación. MÉTODO: Estudio multicasos en 13 municipios, con enfoque hermenéutico, empleando la técnica colcha de retazos en 21 talleres con diversos actores. RESULTADOS: Se encontraron cuatro tendencias conceptuales de atención primaria en salud: i) acceso a servicios de salud de calidad; ii) énfasis en acciones de promoción de la salud y prevención de la enfermedad; iii) atención básica en el primer nivel de complejidad y iv) perspectiva amplia, interesada por el derecho a la salud y la intervención de los determinantes sociales. El concepto predominante fue la atención básica prestada en el primer nivel de complejidad. La principal directriz fue el Plan Decenal de Salud Pública. DISCUSIÓN: la heterogeneidad de directrices y las diferencias conceptuales implican posturas que revelan apuestas ético-políticas en relación con la organización de los sistemas de salud y la justicia sanitaria. En Colombia persisten condiciones estructurales propias del modelo de aseguramiento que restringen la apropiación de una concepción integral y el desarrollo de una política pública basada en atención primaria en salud.

El precio de la vocación en el personal de enfermería y su familia / The Price of Vocation for the Nursing Staff and their Families

RESUMEN Introducción: La enfermería es una de las profesiones con mayor exposición a riesgos laborales. Uno de los principales es el conflicto trabajo - familia. Aun cuando este fenómeno impacta negativamente la salud e interacciones sociales de los trabajadores, la investigación sobre el mismo en el contexto de las profesionales de enfermería y desde una perspectiva cualitativa es limitada. Objetivo: Comprender el significado que tiene la relación trabajo-familia y las consecuencias asociadas para el personal de enfermería. Métodos: Estudio cualitativo utilizando herramientas de la teoría fundada para el análisis y comprensión de la información. Se realizaron nueve entrevistas semi-estructuradas. Las participantes fueron seleccionadas utilizando la técnica de bola de nieve y el muestreo teórico. La triangulación de la información se realizó en una entrevista grupal. Resultados: Para las enfermeras, la vocación por el cuidado del otro sigue siendo un valor esencial en enfermería. Paradójicamente, las condiciones laborales y el cumplimiento de sus funciones les implican que deban descuidarse a sí mismas y no puedan cuidar a sus otros significativos. Conclusiones: En enfermería, el contexto laboral no solo expone a las enfermeras a múltiples riesgos laborales que las afectan durante la jornada, también fomenta el conflicto en la relación trabajo - familia. Sin embargo, las enfermeras debido a su vocación por el cuidado del otro, aceptan y tratan de adaptarse a estas condiciones de trabajo y como consecuencia, terminan descuidándose y apoyándose en terceros para el cuidado de sus otros significativos(AU)

ABSTRACT Introduction: Nursing is one of the professions with greater exposure to occupational risks, one of which is the work-family conflict. Yet this phenomenon negatively affects the health and social interactions of workers, research on the subject is limited in the context of nursing professionals and from a qualitative perspective. Objective: To understand the meaning of the work-family relationship and the consequences for the nursing staff. Methods: Qualitative study with theoretical tools developed for information analysis and understanding. Nine semistructured interviews were conducted. The participants were selected using the snowball technique and theoretical sampling. The triangulation of the information was carried out in a group interview. Results: For female nurses, a vocation for the care of others continues to be an essential value in nursing. The working conditions and the fulfillment of their functions paradoxically imply that they must neglect themselves and cannot take care of other significant aspects of their life as they would like. Conclusions: In nursing, the work context not only exposes nurses to multiple occupational risks that affect them during the day, but it also fosters conflict in the work-family relationship. However, nurses, due to their vocation for the care of others, accept and try to adapt to these working conditions and, as a consequence, end up neglecting and relying on third parties to care for other significant aspects of their lives(AU)

Mitochondrial DNA diversity and population structure of the ocellate freshwater stingray Potamotrygon motoro (Müller & Henle, 1841) (Myliobatiformes: Potamotrygonidae) in the Colombian Amazon and Orinoco Basins.

The lack of clarity regarding the taxonomy of the ocellate river stingray (Potamotrygon motoro) and the absence of previous studies regarding its genetic diversity and population structure makes this species vulnerable to overexploitation, being now the second species of freshwater ray most extracted and exported for ornamental purposes in Colombia. The aim of this work was to determine the population genetic structure and genetic diversity of P. motoro in the Colombian Amazon and Orinoco basins. A total of 110 samples collected from six sub-basins of the Orinoco and in two sub-basins of the Amazon, were analyzed by amplification and sequencing of two fragments of the mitochondrial genes, Cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) (532 bp), and Cytochrome b (Cytb) (429 bp). Haplotype networks were constructed, followed by an analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA). The most probable number of genetic groups (K) was evaluated by means of Bayesian inference using BAPS. One shared haplotype was found between the Colombian Amazon and Orinoco basins for COI but no shared haplotypes were found for Cytb. A K of 4 was found, differentiating three of the four units by sub-basins. A high and significant FST was found when comparing the two basins, suggesting significant genetic differentiation between basins for both mitochondrial gene fragments. These results suggest that P. motoro populations in Colombia should be managed as independent units in each basin for conservation and extraction purposes.

Conservation status and regional habitat priorities for the Orinoco crocodile: Past, present, and future.

Conservation of large predator species has historically been a challenge because they often overlap in resource utilization with humans; furthermore, there is a general lack of in-depth knowledge of their ecology and natural history. We assessed the conservation status of the Orinoco crocodile (Crocodylus intermedius), defining regional habitat priorities/crocodile conservation units (RHP/CCU) and regional research priorities (RRP) for this species. We also estimated a species distribution model (SDM) to define current suitable areas where the species might inhabit and/or that might be successfully colonized. The SDM area obtained with a suitable habitat probability ≥ 0.5 was 23,621 km2. Out of 2,562 km2 are included within protected areas in both Colombia (1,643 km2) and Venezuela (919 km2), which represents only 10.8% of C. intermedius' potential range. Areas such as Laguna de Chigüichigüe (flood plain lagoon) exhibited an increase in population abundance. In contrast, localities such as the Cojedes and Manapire Rivers reported a significant reduction in relative abundance values. In Colombia, disparity in previous survey methods prevented accurate estimation of population trends. Only one study in this country described an increase over a 13 years span in the Ele, Lipa, and Cravo Norte River populations based on nest surveys. We defined 34 critical areas (16 in Colombia, 17 in Venezuela, and one covering both countries) where we need to preserve/research/monitor and/or generate management actions, 10 RHP/CCU (six from Venezuela and four from Colombia) and 24 RRP (11 from Venezuela, 12 from Colombia, and one in both countries). Caño Guaritico (Creek) and the Capanaparo River in Venezuela and the Ele, Lipa, Cravo Norte River System and the Guayabero River in Colombia were defined as areas with the most optimal conditions for long-term preservation and maintenance of C. intermedius populations. We conclude that the conservation status of this species is still critical, which implies the necessity to increase efforts to recover the species, especially in Colombia, to guarantee its survival as a structural and functional component of the ecosystems it inhabits.

Proposal of a non-lethal visual census method to estimate freshwater stingray abundance / Propuesta metodológica no letal para la estimación visual de abundancia de rayas de agua dulce / Proposta de um método de censo visual não letal para estimar de abundancia de raias de agua doce

There is not a current method to estimate South American freshwater stingray's abundance. Therefore we designed a census method and tested it in the field. It consists of making nocturnal surveys by boat in large rivers (>25m width) and floodplain lagoons of varying sizes, along transects of 100m x 10m (1000 m²). We applied this method in the Tomo River, a tributary of the Orinoco River in Colombia. 110 transects were surveyed in 200 runs. A total of 149 rays of four species were recorded: Potamotrygon motoro, Potamotrygon orbignyi, Potamotrygon schroederi and Paratrygon aiereba. P. motoro was the most abundant with a density of 0.31 individuals /1000 m² (SD=0.5). This method gave optimal results when applied to habitats with high transparency and shallow depth (< 1m) since it permitted the identification of both adults and juveniles present.

No existe actualmente un método para estimar la abundancia de las rayas suramericanas de agua dulce. Por ello se diseño un método para censarlas y se probó en campo. Consiste en hacer recorridos nocturnos en bote por ríos grandes (>25 m de ancho) y lagunas inundables de diversos tamaños, a lo largo de transectos de 100 m x 10 m (1000 m²). Con este método se muestreó el río Tomo, un tributario del río Orinoco en Colombia. Se muestrearon 100 transectos en 200 recorridos. Se registró un total de 149 rayas pertenecientes a cuatro especies: Potamotrygon motoro, Potamotrygon orbignyi, Potamotrygon schroederi and Paratrygon aiereba. P. motoro fue la más abundante, con una densidad de 0.31 individuos/1000 m² (DE=5.06). Este método dio óptimos resultados cuando se aplicó a hábitats con alta transparencia y poca profundidad (<1m), ya que así es posible identificar tanto a los adultos como a los juveniles presentes.

Nao há um método atual para estimar a abundancia de raias de água doce Sul-Americanas, assim que desenliamos um método de censo e o testamos em campo no rio Tomo, um afluente do rio Orinoco, em Colombia. Este método consiste na realização de levantamentos noturnos por barco em grandes rios (> 25m de margem) e lagoas de várzea de tamanhos diversos, usando um transecto de 100m x 10m (1000 m²). Em um total de 200 percursos, 110 transectos foram pesquisados. Um total de 149 raias de quatro espécies foram registradas: Potamotrygon motoro, Potamotrygon orbignyi, Potamotrygon schroederi e Paratrygon aiereba. P. motoro foi a mais abundante, com uma densidade de 0,31 indivíduos/1000 m² e um desvio padrao (DP) de 5,06. Este método forneceu os melhores resultados quando aplicado a habitats com alta transparencia e baixa profundidade (< 1m) uma vez que permite a identificação de espécies tanto adultas quanto jovens.

Aphid vector population density determines the emergence of necrogenic satellite RNAs in populations of cucumber mosaic virus.

The satellite RNAs of cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) that induce systemic necrosis in tomato plants (N-satRNA) multiply to high levels in the infected host while severely depressing CMV accumulation and, hence, its aphid transmission efficiency. As N-satRNAs are transmitted into CMV particles, the conditions for N-satRNA emergence are not obvious. Model analyses with realistic parameter values have predicted that N-satRNAs would invade CMV populations only when transmission rates are high. Here, we tested this hypothesis experimentally by passaging CMV or CMV+N-satRNAs at low or high aphid densities (2 or 8 aphids/plant). As predicted, high aphid densities were required for N-satRNA emergence. The results showed that at low aphid densities, random effects due to population bottlenecks during transmission dominate the epidemiological dynamics of CMV/CMV+N-satRNA. The results suggest that maintaining aphid populations at low density will prevent the emergence of highly virulent CMV+N-satRNA isolates.

Virulence evolution of a generalist plant virus in a heterogeneous host system.

Modelling virulence evolution of multihost parasites in heterogeneous host systems requires knowledge of the parasite biology over its various hosts. We modelled the evolution of virulence of a generalist plant virus, Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) over two hosts, in which CMV genotypes differ for within-host multiplication and virulence. According to knowledge on CMV biology over different hosts, the model allows for inoculum flows between hosts and for host co-infection by competing virus genotypes, competition affecting transmission rates to new hosts. Parameters of within-host multiplication, within-host competition, virulence and transmission were determined experimentally for different CMV genotypes in each host. Emergence of highly virulent genotypes was predicted to occur as mixed infections, favoured by high vector densities. For most simulated conditions, evolution to high virulence in the more competent Host 1 was little dependent on inoculum flow from Host 2, while in Host 2, it depended on transmission from Host 1. Virulence evolution bifurcated in each host at low, but not at high, vector densities. There was no evidence of between-host trade-offs in CMV life-history traits, at odds with most theoretical assumptions. Predictions agreed with field observations and are relevant for designing control strategies for multihost plant viruses.

Eficacia, tolerancia y seguridad de una combinación de metronidazol, miconazol, centella asiática, polimixina y neomicina en cápsula blanda para uso vaginal en el tratamiento de la vaginosis bacteriana / Efficacy, tolerability, and safety of a combination including metronidazole, miconazole, Gotu kola, polymixin, and neomycin in soft vaginal capsules for the treatment of bacterial vaginosis

Introducción: La vaginosis bacteriana (VB) es un síndrome polimicrobiano, en la cual la flora dominante de lactobacilos normales es sustituida por una flora polimicrobiana. La prevalencia de VB en Perú varía entre 27 y 43,7%. El Centro de Control y Prevención de Enfermedades (DCD) sugiere el tratamiento de VB en mujeres sintomáticas con metronidazol oral/gel o clindamicina crema. Se planteó en el presente estudio evaluar la eficacia, tolerancia y seguridad de la combinación de metronidazol, miconazol, centella asiática, polimixina y neomicina en cápsula blanda para el tratamiento de VB. Material y Métodos: El presente estudio de tipo abierto, observacional, prospectivo, permitió evaluar la eficacia, tolerancia y seguridad en la aplicación de la combinación de metronidazol, miconazol, centella asiática, polimixina y neomicina en cápsula blanda. Resultados: Se incluyó a 61 pacientes con edad promedio de 29.28 años (rango 18-48) de las cuales 93,4% tenía historia previa de flujo vaginal anormal. Se realizaron dos visitas durante el estudio, la primera para diagnóstico e inicio de tratamiento y la segunda de control post tratamiento. Tres pacientes no tuvieron segunda visita y 8 no tenían registrada toda la información para definir la respuesta terapéutica. La segunda visita se realizó a los 21 días en promedio. Los principales signos y síntomas en la primera visita de diagnóstico fueron flujo vaginal (100,0%), disconfort vaginal (85,2%), dispareunia (70,5%) y dolor abdominal bajo (57,4%), las cuales disminuyeron en forma significativa (p<0,05) a la segunda visita post tratamiento. La prueba de aminas resultó positiva en el 93,4% de los casos en la primera visita y en el 15,5% de los casos en la segunda visita (p<0,05). De la población inicial de estudio, solo 53 mujeres son evaluables para eficacia terapéutica...

Introduction: Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a polymicrobial syndrome, in which the normal dominant flora consisting in Lactobacillus is replaced by polymicrobial flora. The prevalence of BV in Peru varies between 27 and 43.7%. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggest therapy for BV in symptomatic women should include oral/gel metronidazole or clindamycin cream. We proposed in this study to evaluate the efficacy, tolerability and safety of the combination of metronidazole, miconazole, Gotu kola (Centella asiatica), polymixin, and neomycin in soft capsules, for the treatment of BV. Material and Methods: This investigation was an open, observational, and prospective study, which allowed us to evaluate the efficacy, tolerability and safety of the aforementioned combined therapy administered in soft capsules. Results: The study included 61 patients with a mean age of 29.28 years (range, 18-48) and 93.4% had a history of abnormal vaginal discharge. Two visits took place during the study, the first for making the diagnosis and initiating therapy, and the second was the post-treatment control. Three patients did not have a second visit and 8 did not record all the information required to define the therapeutic response. The second visit took place after 21 days on average. The main signs and symptoms at the first visit were vaginal discharge at diagnosis (100.0%), vaginal discomfort (85.2%), dyspareunia (70.5%) and lower abdominal pain (57.4%), which were significantly reduced (p <0.05) in the second visit after treatment. The amine test was positive in 93.4% of cases in the first visit and in 15.5% of cases in the second visit (p <0.05). From the initial population in the study, only 53 women are evaluable for efficacy. An overall response rate in 44 women (83.02%) was achieved with the soft capsule combination treatment. Adverse events were reported in only one case...

El proceso de aprender a ser seguros en trabajadores del sector metalmecánico. Medellín, 2008-2010 / The process of learning to be safe for workers in the metalworking industry. Medellín, 2008-2010

Introducción: La capacitación es la principal estrategia utilizada en salud ocupacional para generar conductas seguras en los trabajadores; diferentes investigaciones han estudiado el impacto que tiene esta estrategia en la disminución de accidentes de trabajo, pero se encuentra poca información del proceso que ocurre para que los trabajadores cambien sus comportamientos hacia conductas seguras. Objetivo: Comprender, con base en la percepción de los trabajadores, el proceso de cambio comportamental en su lugar de trabajo, a partir de la participación en capacitaciones en prevención de riesgos profesionales, en el sector metalmecánico de Medellín. Material y método: Estudio cualitativo con base en la teoría fundada. Se realizaron entrevistas semiestructuradas a 20 trabajadores de tres empresas del sector metalmecánico. Resultados: El fenómeno emergente del análisis de la información fue nombrado el proceso de aprender a ser seguros , proceso que se inscribe en un contexto organizacional pero que puede trascenderlo. Se compone de tres momentos: la adquisición y comprensión de la información, la práctica de lo comprendido en el lugar de trabajo y la interiorización y extrapolación de lo aprendido. Conclusiones: La asistencia a capacitaciones en prevención de riesgos profesionales, no sólo permite un cambio de comportamientos en los trabajadores, sino que puede convertirse en el inicio de un proceso de aprender a ser seguros, que trasciende las fronteras de la empresa. Como resultado del proceso , los trabajadores pueden comenzar a utilizar estrategias de prevención que les permiten protegerse tanto a ellos mismos como a otras personas, dentro y fuera de la empresa(AU)

Cucumber mosaic virus satellite RNAs that induce similar symptoms in melon plants show large differences in fitness.

Two groups of Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) satellite RNAs (satRNAs), necrogenic and non-necrogenic, can be differentiated according to the symptoms they cause in tomato plants, a host in which they also differ in fitness. In most other CMV hosts these CMV-satRNA cause similar symptoms. Here, we analyse whether they differ in traits determining their relative fitness in melon plants, in which the two groups of CMV-satRNAs cause similar symptoms. For this, ten necrogenic and ten non-necrogenic field satRNA genotypes were assayed with Fny-CMV as a helper virus. Neither type of CMV-satRNA modified Fny-CMV symptoms, and both types increased Fny-CMV virulence similarly, as measured by decreases in plant biomass and lifespan. Necrogenic and non-necrogenic satRNAs differed in their ability to multiply in melon tissues; necrogenic satRNAs accumulated to higher levels both in single infection and in competition with non-necrogenic satRNAs. Indeed, multiplication of some non-necrogenic satRNAs was undetectable. Transmission between hosts by aphids was less efficient for necrogenic satRNAs as a consequence of a more severe reduction of CMV accumulation in leaves. The effect of CMV accumulation on aphid transmission was not compensated for by differences in satRNA encapsidation efficiency or transmissibility to CMV progeny. Thus, necrogenic and non-necrogenic satRNAs differ in their relative fitness in melon, and trade-offs are apparent between the within-host and between-host components of satRNA fitness. Hence, CMV-satRNAs could have different evolutionary dynamics in CMV host-plant species in which they do not differ in pathogenicity.

A qualitative study of patient's perceptions of a preventive renal programme in Colombia 2008.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to describe how users perceive the preventive renal programme in Colombia and cope with their chronic kidney disease (CKD) from its early stages of development. METHODS: Some techniques from the grounded theory approach were used. The sampling strategy was selective. RESULTS: For medical knowledge, CKD is an irreversible condition that, during its earlier stages does not represent an obstacle for living an apparently normal life, which may lead patients to get late diagnosis and identify their condition as a 'dormant disease'. Therefore, patients have learned to 'live with their disease' by developing various coping strategies. In the case of predialysis patients, these strategies include 'fear of dialysis and transplant', 'living a normal life' and 'considering CKD a deadly disease'. On the other hand, for dialysis patients, strategies include 'resignation', 'seeing dialysis as a lifesaver' and a 'feeling of loss'. CONCLUSION: Patients recognizing their participation in the Renal Protection Programme may lead them to live longer and improve their quality of life. Also, due to the asymptomatic nature of CKD, late diagnoses are not uncommon, hence opportunities for prevention are usually scarce, which in turn becomes a challenge for public health.

Genomic and biological characterization of chiltepín yellow mosaic virus, a new tymovirus infecting Capsicum annuum var. aviculare in Mexico.

The characterization of viruses infecting wild plants is a key step towards understanding the ecology of plant viruses. In this work, the complete genomic nucleotide sequence of a new tymovirus species infecting chiltepin, the wild ancestor of Capsicum annuum pepper crops, in Mexico was determined, and its host range has been explored. The genome of 6,517 nucleotides has the three open reading frames described for tymoviruses, putatively encoding an RNA-dependent RNA polymerase, a movement protein and a coat protein. The 5' and 3' untranslated regions have structures with typical signatures of the tymoviruses. Phylogenetic analyses revealed that this new virus is closely related to the other tymoviruses isolated from solanaceous plants. Its host range is mainly limited to solanaceous species, which notably include cultivated Capsicum species. In the latter, infection resulted in a severe reduction of growth, indicating the potential of this virus to be a significant crop pathogen. The name of chiltepin yellow mosaic virus (ChiYMV) is proposed for this new tymovirus.

Estimation of the effective number of founders that initiate an infection after aphid transmission of a multipartite plant virus.

The fecundity of RNA viruses can be very high. Thus, it is often assumed that viruses have large populations, and RNA virus evolution has been mostly explained using purely deterministic models. However, population bottlenecks during the virus life cycle could result in effective population numbers being much smaller than reported censuses, and random genetic drift could be important in virus evolution. A step at which population bottlenecks may be severe is host-to-host transmission. We report here an estimate of the size of the population that starts a new infection when Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) is transmitted by the aphid Aphis gossypii, based on the segregation of two CMV genotypes in plants infected by aphids that acquired the virus from plants infected by both genotypes. Results show very small effective numbers of founders, between one and two, both in experiments in which the three-partite genome of CMV was aphid transmitted and in experiments in which a fourth RNA, CMV satellite RNA, was also transmitted. These numbers are very similar to those published for Potato virus Y, which has a monopartite genome and is transmitted by aphids according to a different mechanism than CMV. Thus, the number of genomic segments seems not to be a major determinant of the effective number of founders. Also, our results suggest that the occurrence of severe bottlenecks during horizontal transmission is general for viruses nonpersistently transmitted by aphids, indicating that random genetic drift should be considered when modeling virus evolution.