Mutational Profile Enables the Identification of a High-Risk Subgroup in Myelodysplastic Syndromes with Isolated Trisomy 8.

Trisomy 8 (+8) is the most frequent trisomy in myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and is associated with clinical heterogeneity and intermediate cytogenetic risk when found in isolation. The presence of gene mutations in this group of patients and the prognostic significance has not been extensively analyzed. Targeted deep sequencing was performed in a cohort of 79 MDS patients showing isolated +8. The most frequently mutated genes were: TET2 (38%), STAG2 (34.2%), SRSF2 (29.1%) and RUNX1 (26.6%). The mutational profile identified a high-risk subgroup with mutations in STAG2, SRSF2 and/or RUNX1, resulting in shorter time to acute myeloid leukemia progression (14 months while not reached in patients without these mutations, p < 0.0001) and shorter overall survival (23.7 vs. 46.3 months, p = 0.001). Multivariate analyses revealed the presence of mutations in these genes as an independent prognostic factor in MDS showing +8 isolated (HR: 3.1; p < 0.01). Moreover, 39.5% and 15.4% of patients classified as low/intermediate risk by the IPSS-R and IPSS-M, respectively, were re-stratified as a high-risk subgroup based on the mutational status of STAG2, SRSF2 and RUNX1. Results were validated in an external cohort (n = 2494). In summary, this study validates the prognosis significance of somatic mutations shown in IPSS-M and adds STAG2 as an important mutated gene to consider in this specific subgroup of patients. The mutational profile in isolated +8 MDS patients could, therefore, offer new insights for the correct management of patients with a higher risk of leukemic transformation.

Prevalencia de Blastocystis sp en niños en edad escolar de Reynosa, México / Blastocystis prevalence in school age children from Reynosa, Mexico

Resumen Objetivo: Determinar la prevalencia de Blastocystis sp. en niños residentes de la ciudad de Reynosa, Tamaulipas, México. Material y Método: Estudio transversal que incluyó 238 muestras de heces de niños con edad de 5 a 12 años de escuelas primarias de la ciudad de Reynosa, Tamaulipas, México. Resultados: Del total de muestras, el 13,8% tuvo presencia de Blastocystis sp.; siendo este el más prevalente dentro de los parásitos encontrados; también se re porta la presencia de Entamoeba histolytica/dispar, Giardia intestinalis y Enterobius vermicularis. Conclusiones: La prevalencia de Blastocystis en zonas de México es poco conocida; sin embargo, los estudios en diversas partes del mundo sugieren un aumento, por lo que es importante determinar la presencia y su relación como patógeno u oportunista humano.

Abstract Objective: To determine the prevalence of Blastocystis spp. in children living in the city of Reynosa, Tamaulipas, Mexico. Material y Method: Cross-sectional study that included 238 stool samples from children aged 5 to 12 years from elementary schools in the city of Reynosa, Tamaulipas, Mexico. Results: Of the total number of samples, 13.8% showed the presence of Blastocystis spp., being the most prevalent among the parasites found; the presence of Entamoeba histolytica/dispar, Giardia intestinalis and Enterobius vermicularis was also reported. Conclusions: The prevalence of Blastocystis in areas of Mexico is poorly known; however, studies in various parts of the world suggest an increase, so it is important to determine the presence and its relationship as a human pathogen or opportunist.

Antiproliferative activity of thiazole and oxazole derivatives: A systematic review of in vitro and in vivo studies.

Thiazole and oxazole are compounds with a heterocyclic nucleus that have attracted the attention of medicinal chemistry due to the great variety of biological activities that they enable. In recent years, their study has increased, finding a wide range of biological activities, including antifungal, antiparasitic, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer activities. This systematic review provides evidence from the literature on the antiproliferative and antitumor activities of thiazole and oxazole and their derivatives from 2014 to April 2020. Three bibliographical databases were consulted (PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus), and a total of 32 studies were included in this paper based on our eligibility criteria. The analysis of the activity-structure relationship allows us to conclude that most of the promising compounds identified contained thiazole nuclei or derivatives.

Phylodynamic analysis in the understanding of the current COVID-19 pandemic and its utility in vaccine and antiviral design and assessment.

Over the last decades, the use of phylogenetic methods in the study of emerging infectious diseases has gained considerable traction in public health. Particularly, the integration of phylogenetic analyses with the understanding of the pathogen dynamics at the population level has provided powerful tools for epidemiological surveillance systems. In the same way, the development of statistical methods and theory, as well as improvement of computational efficiency for evolutionary analysis, has expanded the use of these tools for vaccine and antiviral development. Today with the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), this seems to be critical. In this article, we discuss how the application of phylodynamic analysis can improve the understanding of current pandemic dynamics as well as the design, selection, and evaluation of vaccine candidates and antivirals.

Activation of the Keap1-Nrf2 pathway by specioside and the n-butanol extract from the inner bark of Tabebuia rosea (Bertol) DC.

Background: A large number of chemical compounds exert their antioxidant effects by activation of key transcriptional regulatory mechanisms, such as the transcription factor Nrf2. The aim of this study was to evaluate the activation of the Keap1-Nrf2 pathway by both the n-butanol extract obtained from the inner bark of Tabebuia rosea (Bertol) DC and specioside isolated from this extract. Methods: The antioxidant activity of the extract and specioside isolated from the inner bark of T. rosea were evaluated using the oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) and the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging activity (DPPH) techniques, whereas their effects on the viability of HepG2 cells was determined using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) method. The effects of the compound and the extract on activating the Keap1-Nrf2 pathway were evaluated using a Nrf2 Transcription Factor Assay kit. Induction of the Nrf2-mediated antioxidant response genes HMOX-1 and NQO1 was evaluated by real-time PCR. The protective effects against H 2O 2-induced oxidative stress in HepG2 cells was determined as the percent protection using the MTT method. Results: Both the n-butanol extract and specioside exhibited activity at low concentrations without affecting cellular viability, since the cell viability was greater than 80% after 24 hours of exposure at each tested concentration. In addition, Nrf2 dissociated from Keap1 after treatment with the n-butanol extract at a concentration of 0.25 µg/mL after 4 hours of exposure. An increase in the Nrf2 level in the cytoplasm after 4 hours of exposure to 2 µM specioside was observed. Nrf2 levels stabilized in the nucleus 12 hours after stimulation with both specioside and the extract. After 6 hours of stimulation, both the extract and specioside induced the expression of HMOX-1 and NQO1. Conclusion: The n-butanol extract from the inner bark of T. rosea and specioside produced protective effects against H 2O 2-induced oxidative stress in HepG2 cells.

Seroprevalencia de anticuerpos anti-Toxoplasma gondii en mujeres menores de 18 años de una localidad de Colombia / Seroprevalence of anti-Toxoplasma gondii antibodies in women under 18 years old from a locality of Colombia

Resumen OBJETIVO: Determinar la seroprevalencia de Toxoplasma gondii en mujeres menores de 18 años de dos instituciones educativas de un municipio de Colombia. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: Estudio de prevalencia, transversal, efectuado en 2016 en mujeres de dos colegios de Dosquebradas, Colombia, aprobado por los comités de ética de las instituciones participantes. Criterios de inclusión: ser menores de 18 años, firmar el consentimiento informado y responder las preguntas de una encuesta de datos demográficos. Criterios de exclusión: tener más de 18 años y haber tenido embarazos previos. Las muestras se analizaron contra anticuerpos IgM, IgG e IgG de avidez con antígenos recombinantes para Toxoplasma gondii altamente purificados con la prueba recomLine, con desarrollo de Western blot mikrogen Diagnostik. Para definir el momento infeccioso se determinó la avidez anti-IgG contra antígenos p30, MAG1, GRA1 y rSAG1 en muestras positivas para IgG total. La prueba se realizó e interpretó de acuerdo con las instrucciones del fabricante. RESULTADOS: Se estudiaron 80 pacientes con edad media de 15 años: 4 resultaron con IgM anti-Toxoplasma gondii, infección menor de 3 meses; 28 IgG anti-Toxoplasma gondii, con infección mayor a 3 meses y 17 IgG de avidez con infección superior a 6 meses. La prevalencia fue de 61.3%. CONCLUSIÓN: La seroprevalencia global de anticuerpos anti-toxoplasma encontrada fue de 61.3%, lo que pone de manifiesto que la toxoplasmosis es una enfermedad en la que debe pensarse para diagnosticarla y tratarla oportunamente.

Abstract OBJECTIVE: To determinate seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii in the female population of the municipality of Dosquebradas. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Cross-sectional prevalence study in reproductive age female of two school of the from a locality of Dosquebradas, Colombia, during 2016, was approved by the ethics committees of the participating institutions. The study volunteers signed the consent and completed the survey with demographic data, excluding women older than 18 years, and having had previous pregnancies. The samples were analyzed against IgM, IgG and avid IgG antibodies using highly purified recombinant antigens for Toxoplasma gondii using RecomLine test with development of Western blot mikrogen DIAGNOSTIK. To define the infectious moment, anti-IgG avidity against antigens p30, MAG1, GRA1 and rSAG1 were determined in samples positive for total IgG. The test was performed and interpreted according to the manufacturer's instructions. RESULTS: 80 patients were studied with average age of 15 years, 4 presented IgM anti-Toxoplasma gondii, infection less than 3 months; 28 IgG anti-Toxoplasma gondii, with infection greater than 3 months and 17 IgG of avidity with infection greater than 6 months, representing a prevalence of 61.3%. CONCLUSIONS: The global seroprevalence of anti-toxoplasma antibodies was 61.3%, which shows that toxoplasmosis is a disease in which it must be thought to diagnose and treat it in a timely manner.

Nrf2-Mediated Antioxidant Activity of the inner bark extracts obtained from Tabebuia rosea (Bertol) DC and Tabebuia chrysantha (JACQ) G. Nicholson.

Background: Several ethnobotanical and ethnopharmacological studies have shown the therapeutic potential of plants from the genus Tabebuia, which have long been used in traditional medicine in rural areas of South America, for the treatment of several human diseases. This study aimed to evaluate the Nrf2-mediated antioxidant activity of the inner bark extracts obtained from Tabebuia rosea and Tabebuia chrysantha. Methods: The antioxidant activity of extracts obtained from the inner bark of T. rosea and T. chrysantha was evaluated using the Oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) technique. The effect of extracts on the viability of HepG2 cells was determined using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) method. The translocation of Nrf2 to the nucleus after exposure of HepG2 cells to the extracts and controls (α-lipoic acid, curcumin and hydrogen peroxide) was evaluated using the Nrf2 transcription factor kit. Induction of the Nrf2-mediated antioxidant response gene ( NQO1) was evaluated by real-time PCR. Results: The ethyl acetate extract obtained from both species displayed the highest ORAC activity (12,523 and 6,325 µmoles Eq Trolox/g extract). In addition, the extracts had the ability to activate and to translocate Nrf2 to the nucleus, as well as to induce the expression of NQO1. Conclusion: These results indicate that the ethyl acetate extracts obtained from the inner bark of T. chrysantha and T. rosea have an important antioxidant effect mediated by Nrf2 activation, and could be used as a new source of natural antioxidants.

Aedes albopictus (Skuse, 1894) infected with the American-Asian genotype of dengue type 2 virus in Medellín suggests its possible role as vector of dengue fever in Colombia.

INTRODUCTION: Aedes aegypti and Ae. albopictus are recognized vectors of dengue, yellow fever, chikungunya and Zika arboviruses in several countries worldwide. In Colombia, Ae. albopictus geographical distribution has increased to include highly populated cities such as Cali and Medellín. Although this species has been frequently found in urban and semi-urban zones in the country, its role as vector of the dengue fever is poorly known. OBJECTIVE: To identify the presence of Ae. albopictus specimens naturally infected with dengue virus collected in Medellín. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Insects were collected in the Universidad Nacional de Colombia campus in Medellín. Individuals were classified as Ae. albopictus and confirmed by DNA barcode region analysis. Mosquitoes were processed for dengue virus identification, and a fragment of the NS3 gen was sequenced and compared with DENV-2 genotypes reported in the literature. RESULTS: Sequence analysis of COI indicated Ae. albopictus individuals were similar to those recently reported in Colombia, and genetically close to those from other regions worldwide. Among the pools tested one was positive for DENV-2, and the NS3 analysis indicated it belonged to the Asian-American clade. CONCLUSION: We report the presence Ae. albopictus naturally infected with the Asian-American genotype of DENV-2 in Colombia. The presence of Ae. albopictus specimens carrying the most common genotype infecting humans in a highly populated city such as Medellín indicates its potential role as dengue vector in Colombia and highlights the relevance of including it in current vector surveillance strategies.

Virological surveillance of Aedes (Stegomyia) aegypti and Aedes (Stegomyia) albopictus as support for decision making for dengue control in Medellín.

INTRODUCTION: Dengue represents an important public health problem in Colombia. No treatment is available and the vaccine has not been approved in all countries, hence, actions should be strengthened to mitigate its impact through the control of Aedes aegypti, the vector mosquito. In Colombia, surveillance is done using entomological indexes and case notification, which is usually informed late, leading to untimely interventions. Viral detection in urban mosquitoes using molecular techniques provides more accurate entomological information for decision-making. OBJECTIVE: To report results of virological surveillance in Aedes specimens collected during routine entomological activities of the Secretaría de Salud de Medellín. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Specimens were collected during two periods in each of which we selected 18 dwellings around each one of the 250 larva traps arranged for mosquitoe surveillance, as well as 70 educational institutions and 30 health centers. Specimens were identified morphologically, and divided in pools for viral detection using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). We calculated the minimum infection rate and the adult infestation index for each group. RESULTS: We collected 1,507 adult mosquitoes, 10 of which were identified as A. albopictus. Out of the 407 pools, 132 (one of them Ae. albopictus) were positive, and 14.39% were A. aegypti males. The minimum infection rates for Ae. aegypti were 120.07 and 69,50 for the first and second periods, respectively, and the adult infestation index was higher in educational institutions (23.57%). CONCLUSIONS: Using RT-PCR we identified natural infectivity and vertical transmission of dengue virus in A. aegypti and A. albopictus. We suggest the use of molecular techniques in arbovirosis surveillance and control programs in Colombia.

Adherence to antiretroviral treatment and associated factors in people living with HIV/AIDS in Quindío, Colombia / Adhesión al tratamiento antirretroviral y factores asociados en personas viviendo con VIH/sida en Quindío, Colombia

Abstract Introduction: HIV/AIDS is a chronic disease; therefore, recognizing which factors favor adherence to antiretroviral treatment is necessary. Objective: To determine the association between adherence to antiretroviral treatment and depression, anxiety, perception of social support and sociodemographic variables in people living with HIV/ AIDS in Quindío, Colombia. Materials and methods: An observational, cross-sectional study was performed in an intentional sample of 70 adults, who were applied the Morisky-Green questionnaire, the Beck Depression Inventory, the Beck Anxiety Inventory, the Medical Outcomes Study (MOS) Social Support Survey, and a sociodemographic survey. Univariate and bivariate analyzes were performed by calculating the odds ratio to determine association (p<0.05). Results: 57.1% ofthe participants reported low adherence to treatment, 30% had moderate or severe depressive symptoms, 71.4% scored minimal or mild anxiety levels, and 77.1% had a low perception of social support. A statistical association between depression (high levels tripled the risk of non-adherence) and self-report on how treatment is followed (excellent or good self-report increased by five times the probability of adherence) was found. Conclusion: Depression and self-report on compliance were associated with adherence to antiretroviral therapy. A comprehensive study on the perception of social support and cognitive variables, such as self-efficacy and risk perception, is highly recommended for people living with HIV/AIDS.

Resumen Introducción. El VIH/sida es una enfermedad crónica, por ello es necesario reconocer qué factores favorecen la adhesión al tratamiento antirretroviral. Objetivo. Determinar la asociación entre adhesión al tratamiento antirretroviral y depresión, ansiedad, percepción de apoyo social y variables sociodemográficas en personas viviendo con VIH/sida en Quindío, Colombia. Materiales y métodos. Se realizó un estudio observacional analítico de tipo transversal en una muestra intencional de 70 adultos, a quienes se les aplicó el cuestionario autorreferido de Morisky-Green, el Inventario de Depresión de Beck, el Inventario de Ansiedad de Beck, el cuestionario MOS (Medical Outcomes Study) de Apoyo Social y una encuesta sociodemográfica. Se realizaron análisis univariados y bivariados calculando Odds Ratio para determinar asociación (p<0.05). Resultados. 57.1% de los participantes reportó poca adhesión al tratamiento, 30% presentó síntomas depresivos moderados o graves, 71.4% puntuó niveles mínimos o leves de ansiedad y 77.1% tuvo baja percepción de apoyo social. Se encontró asociación estadística entre depresión -niveles altos triplicaron el riesgo de no adhesión- y autoevaluación de la manera como se sigue el tratamiento -excelente o buena aumentó cinco veces la probabilidad de adhesión-. Conclusión. La depresión y la autoevaluación del cumplimiento se asociaron con adhesión al tratamiento antirretroviral. Se sugiere profundizar el estudio de la percepción de apoyo social y variables cognitivas, como la autoeficacia y percepción de riesgo, en personas que viven con VIH/sida.

Infección de Aedes albopictus (Skuse, 1894) con el genotipo asiático-americano del virus del dengue serotipo 2 en Medellín y su posible papel como vector del dengue en Colombia / Aedes albopictus (Skuse, 1894) infected with the American-Asian genotype of dengue type 2 virus in Medellín suggests its possible role as vector of dengue fever in Colombia

Resumen Introducción. Aedes aegypti y Ae. albopictus son reconocidos vectores de arbovirus como los del dengue, la fiebre amarilla, el chikungunya y el Zika, en regiones tropicales y subtropicales del mundo. En Colombia, la distribución geográfica de Ae. albopictus ha sufrido un incremento y hoy incluye ciudades como Cali y Medellín. Hasta ahora, sin embargo, no se ha recabado información concluyente sobre su infección viral y su capacidad de transmisión a los humanos. Objetivo. Determinar la infección natural por dengue en ejemplares de Ae. albopictus recolectados en un área urbana de Medellín. Materiales y métodos. Se recolectaron individuos de Ae. albopictus en el campus de la Universidad Nacional de Colombia, sede Medellín. Se confirmó su clasificación taxonómica mediante el análisis del gen citocromo oxidasa I (COI), y se extrajo el ARN total para la identificación del virus del dengue y de los respectivos serotipos. La presencia del genotipo DENV se infirió mediante el análisis del gen NS3. Resultados. El análisis del COI corroboró el estatus taxonómico de Ae. albopictus. Uno de los mosquitos procesados fue positivo para DENV-2 y el análisis del NS3 mostró una gran similitud con el genotipo asiático-americano. Conclusión. Se reporta la infección con DENV-2 en Ae. albopictus en Medellín, Colombia. La presencia del genotipo asiático-americano en una zona urbana sugiere su posible circulación entre humanos y en Ae. albopictus, lo cual alerta sobre su eventual papel en la transmisión del DENV-2, y sobre la necesidad de incluir esta especie en la vigilancia entomológica en Colombia.

Abstract Introduction: Aedes aegypti and Ae. albopictus are recognized vectors of dengue, yellow fever, chikungunya and Zika arboviruses in several countries worldwide. In Colombia, Ae. albopictus geographical distribution has increased to include highly populated cities such as Cali and Medellín. Although this species has been frequently found in urban and semi-urban zones in the country, its role as vector of the dengue fever is poorly known. Objective: To identify the presence of Ae. albopictus specimens naturally infected with dengue virus collected in Medellín. Materials and methods: Insects were collected in the Universidad Nacional de Colombia campus in Medellín. Individuals were classified as Ae. albopictus and confirmed by DNA barcode region analysis. Mosquitoes were processed for dengue virus identification, and a fragment of the NS3 gen was sequenced and compared with DENV-2 genotypes reported in the literature. Results: Sequence analysis of COI indicated Ae. albopictus individuals were similar to those recently reported in Colombia, and genetically close to those from other regions worldwide. Among the pools tested one was positive for DENV-2, and the NS3 analysis indicated it belonged to the Asian-American clade. Conclusion: We report the presence Ae. albopictus naturally infected with the Asian-American genotype of DENV-2 in Colombia. The presence of Ae. albopictus specimens carrying the most common genotype infecting humans in a highly populated city such as Medellín indicates its potential role as dengue vector in Colombia and highlights the relevance of including it in current vector surveillance strategies.

Vigilancia virológica de Aedes (Stegomyia) aegypti y Aedes (Stegomyia) albopictus como apoyo para la adopción de decisiones en el control del dengue en Medellín / Virological surveillance of Aedes (Stegomyia) aegypti and Aedes (Stegomyia) albopictus as support for decision making for dengue control in Medellín

Resumen Introducción. El dengue en Colombia representa un grave problema de salud y, dado que no existe un tratamiento efectivo para la enfermedad y la vacuna no se ha aprobado en todos los países, se deben fortalecer acciones para mitigar su impacto mediante el control de Aedes aegypti, el mosquito vector. La vigilancia en el país se hace con base en los índices entomológicos y en la notificación de casos, la cual es frecuentemente tardía y por ello conduce a falta de oportunidad en las intervenciones. La detección viral en mosquitos urbanos mediante técnicas moleculares proporciona información entomológica más precisa para la adopción de decisiones. Objetivo. Reportar los resultados de la vigilancia virológica de especímenes de Aedes spp. recolectados durante actividades entomológicas rutinarias de la Secretaría de Salud de Medellín. Materiales y métodos. Los ejemplares se recolectaron durante dos periodos, en cada uno de los cuales se seleccionaron 18 viviendas alrededor de cada una de las 250 trampas para larvas dispuestas para la vigilancia entomológica, así como 70 instituciones educativas y 30 centros de salud. Los ejemplares se identificaron y se conformaron grupos para la detección viral mediante reacción en cadena de la polimerasa con transcripción inversa (Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction, RT-PCR). Se calculó la tasa mínima de infección y el índice de infestación en adultos. Resultados. Se recolectaron 1.507 mosquitos, 10 de los cuales eran Ae. albopictus. De los 407 grupos conformados, 132 (uno de ellos de Ae. albopictus) fueron positivos, y 14,39 % correspondió a machos de Ae. aegypti. La tasa mínima de infección para Ae. aegypti fue de 120,07 y 69,50 en el primer y segundo períodos, respectivamente, y el índice de infestación en adultos fue mayor en las instituciones educativas (23,57 %). Conclusión. Mediante la RT-PCR se detectaron la infección natural y la transmisión vertical del virus del dengue en Ae. aegypti y en Ae. albopictus. Se propone considerar la incorporación de estas técnicas moleculares en los programas de vigilancia y control de las arbovirosis en el país.

Abstract Introduction: Dengue represents an important public health problem in Colombia. No treatment is available and the vaccine has not been approved in all countries, hence, actions should be strengthened to mitigate its impact through the control of Aedes aegypti, the vector mosquito. In Colombia, surveillance is done using entomological indexes and case notification, which is usually informed late, leading to untimely interventions. Viral detection in urban mosquitoes using molecular techniques provides more accurate entomological information for decision-making. Objective: To report results of virological surveillance in Aedes specimens collected during routine entomological activities of the Secretaría de Salud de Medellín. Materials and methods: Specimens were collected during two periods in each of which we selected 18 dwellings around each one of the 250 larva traps arranged for mosquitoe surveillance, as well as 70 educational institutions and 30 health centers. Specimens were identified morphologically, and divided in pools for viral detection using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). We calculated the minimum infection rate and the adult infestation index for each group. Results: We collected 1,507 adult mosquitoes, 10 of which were identified as A. albopictus. Out of the 407 pools, 132 (one of them Ae. albopictus) were positive, and 14.39% were A. aegypti males. The minimum infection rates for Ae. aegypti were 120.07 and 69,50 for the first and second periods, respectively, and the adult infestation index was higher in educational institutions (23.57%). Conclusions: Using RT-PCR we identified natural infectivity and vertical transmission of dengue virus in A. aegypti and A. albopictus. We suggest the use of molecular techniques in arbovirosis surveillance and control programs in Colombia.

Association of Paraoxonase-1 Q192R (rs662) Single Nucleotide Variation with Cardiovascular Risk in Coffee Harvesters of Central Colombia.

Paraoxonase 1 (PON1), a high-density lipoprotein-associated antioxidant enzyme, hydrolyzes several organophosphate pesticides and oxidized lipids. The PON1 Q192R polymorphism affects the catalytic efficiency and is considered a risk factor for pesticide intoxication and cardiovascular disease (CVD) but the association is not consistent between individuals or populations. We aimed to study the association of PON1 Q192R polymorphism with CVD risk in coffee harvesters of central Colombia. Demographics were collected from 205 subjects via standardized questionnaires. Lipid profiles and serum butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) were measured by standard procedures. The calculated 10-year atherosclerotic CVD (ASCVD) risk was used as the cardiovascular risk estimate. Q192R genotype was determined by real-time PCR. Prevalence of hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, and the 10-year ASCVD risk was 33%, 62%, and 22%, respectively. BChE levels were no indicative of recent pesticide exposure, although a positive correlation was observed with BChE and hypercholesterolemia. The Q192R genotype frequencies were 38% (QQ), 44% (QR), and 18% (RR). We found an association of the 192Q genotype with hypertension. The results of this study signal the importance to evaluate the influence and potential interactions of BChE and PON1 192Q allele with known genetic and environmental factors implicated in the pathogenesis of CVD.

Depresión y factores asociados en personas viviendo con VIH/Sida en Quindío, Colombia, 2015 / Depression and associated factors in people living with HIV/AIDS in Quindio, Colombia, 2015

Introducción: La Terapia Antirretroviral ha sido una repuesta efectiva ante la infección por VIH; sin embargo, al ser esta una enfermedad crónica algunas variables psicológicas pueden interferir en la adaptación al tratamiento y calidad de vida de los pacientes. Objetivo: Identificar indicadores de depresión y factores asociados en un grupo de personas viviendo con VIH/sida en Quindío, Colombia. Material y Métodos: Se realizó un estudio transversal en un grupo de 70 adultos diagnosticados con VIH que se encontraban en tratamiento antirretroviral en Quindío-Colombia. La información se obtuvo a través de los cuestionarios de depresión y ansiedad de Beck, el cuestionario MOS de apoyo social y una encuesta sobre información sociodemográfica, aspectos familiares y de salud. Resultados: El promedio de edad se ubicó en 38,2 años (DE 12,6), 64,5 porciento fueron hombres, 44,9 eran solteros, 30 porciento puntuó niveles moderados o graves de depresión. El tener relación de pareja actuó como factor protector de la depresión: por cada paciente con relación de pareja y niveles moderados o graves de depresión, había 6 separados o viudos (P = 0,006; RP = 5,769; IC 95 por ciento: 1,349 ­ 24,674). Tener niveles altos o moderados de ansiedad estuvo asociado con la depresión (P = 0,004; RP = 2,750; IC 95 porciento 1,391 ­ 5,436). Conclusiones: La depresión puede afectar con frecuencia a las personas que viven con VIH y los altos niveles de ansiedad se asocian a ella. Contar con una relación de pareja podría favorecer el estado de ánimo en estos pacientes, probablemente porque es fuente de apoyo social(AU)

Introduction: Antiretroviral Therapy has been an effective response to HIV infection, however, some psychological variables can interfere with adaptation to treatment and quality of life of patients because this is a chronic disease.Objective: To identify indicators of depression and associated factors in a group of people living with HIV / AIDS in Quindio, Colombia. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study was performed in a group of 70 adults diagnosed with HIV were receiving antiretroviral treatment in Quindio, Colombia. The information was obtained through questionnaires Beck´s depression and anxiety, the questionnaire MOS social support and a survey on socio-demographic information, family and health aspects. Results: The average age stood at 38,2 years old; (DE 12,6) 64.5 percent were men, 44,9 percent were single, 30 percent scored moderate or severe levels of depression. Having relationship acted as a protective factor of depression: for each patient relationship and moderate or severe levels of depression, there were 6 separated or widowed (P = 0,006; RP = 5,769; IC 95 percent: 1,349 ­ 24,674). High or moderate levels of anxiety were associated with depression (P = 0,004; RP = 2,750; IC 95 percent 1,391 ­ 5,436). Conclusions: Depression can affect often people living with HIV and high levels of anxiety associated with it. Having a relationship could favor the mood in these patients, probably because it is a source of social support(AU)

Formas alternasdde transmisión de toxoplasma gondii / Alternative ays of toxoplasma gondii transmission

El Toxoplasma gondii, es un protozoario descubierto hace poco más de un siglo, es un parásito de gran importancia epidemiológica, que puede ocasionar en mujeres embarazadas desde complicaciones neurológicas en el producto, hasta muerte fetal, incluso abortos y encefalitis en pacientes con SIDA, convirtiéndose en Colombia en un grave problema de salud pública. En la revisión de la evidencia disponible, se ha llegado a concluir que las formas en que el parásito llega a infectar al ser humano son muy variadas, incluyendo las formas conocidas desde tiempo atrás como: alimentos contaminados, contacto con heces felinas; además de otras formas no tan conocidas como son: la vía transfusional, por trasplantes de órganos, la vía acuática, la mecánica, la inhalación de ooquistes y la vía sexual; involucrando en el ciclo de vida del parásito, a especies animales diferentes a los felinos, tales como perros e insectos. Así mismo, se resalta la importancia de factores antrópicos y medio ambientales, como moduladores de las dinámicas de transmisión y del ciclo de vida del parasito. Esta revisión, proporciona bases sólidas para alertar al sistema de salud pública colombiano, acerca de la necesidad de adoptar medidas higiénicas y sanitarias para evitar la difusión de esta patología entre poblaciones de alto riesgo.

Toxoplasma gondii is a protozoan discovered more than a century ago. It is a parasite of great epidemiologic importance which can cause from neurologic complications in the product to fetal death in pregnant women, abortion and encephalitis in patients with AIDS, thus becoming a public health problem in Colombia. In this review of the available evidence, it was concluded that the forms in which the parasite infects human beings are very varied, including the forms known long time ago such as contaminated food, contact with feline feces, as well as other not so well known ways like transfusions, organ transplants, waterborne, and mechanic way, ooquist inhalation and sexual transmission, involving animal species different from felines in the parasite lifecycle, such as dogs and insects. Likewise, the importance of anthropic and environmental factors such as modulators of the transmission dynamics and lifecycle of the parasite are highlighted. This review, provides solid bases for alerting the public health systems about the need to adopt hygienic and sanitary measures to avoid the diffusion of this pathology among high risk populations.

The membrane-spanning 4-domains, subfamily A (MS4A) gene cluster contains a common variant associated with Alzheimer's disease.

BACKGROUND: In order to identify novel loci associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD), we conducted a genome-wide association study (GWAS) in the Spanish population. METHODS: We genotyped 1,128 individuals using the Affymetrix Nsp I 250K chip. A sample of 327 sporadic AD patients and 801 controls with unknown cognitive status from the Spanish general population were included in our initial study. To increase the power of the study, we combined our results with those of four other public GWAS datasets by applying identical quality control filters and the same imputation methods, which were then analyzed with a global meta-GWAS. A replication sample with 2,200 sporadic AD patients and 2,301 controls was genotyped to confirm our GWAS findings. RESULTS: Meta-analysis of our data and independent replication datasets allowed us to confirm a novel genome-wide significant association of AD with the membrane-spanning 4-domains subfamily A (MS4A) gene cluster (rs1562990, P = 4.40E-11, odds ratio = 0.88, 95% confidence interval 0.85 to 0.91, n = 10,181 cases and 14,341 controls). CONCLUSIONS: Our results underscore the importance of international efforts combining GWAS datasets to isolate genetic loci for complex diseases.

Biofilm en infecciones endodónticas

El propósito de este articulo es realizar una revisión de literatura para reconocer cómo las bacteriasrealizan la formación del biofilm, la estructura y su relación con las infecciones endodónticas.

Valoración significativa del componente bucal de la salud / Meaningful assessment of the oral component of health

El estudio alrededor de la representación social es una pregunta por lo significativo, por lo que da razones de identidad al individuo, por el valor que se le otorga a unhecho, fenòmeno o situación específica. A partir del esclarecimiento de dicho interrogante se puede dilucidar el alcance que se da en la estructura del pensamiento de la profesión, respecto de las motivaciones que inducen a la comunidad a valorar significativamente o no el componente bucal de su salud y en consecuencia, la orientacion y el desempeño de la profesión odontológica. Un estudio cualitativo como el presente, orientado hacia la comprensión o interpretacion, desde la observación y la entrevista, del valor significativo que un grupo social le da a su salud en la especificidad del componente bucal, permitió identificar grupos categorizables que hablan de dicha valoración significativa, permitiendo la comprensión deseada, que nos posibilita sustentar y recrear nuevas categorías de análisis. La salud integral es valorada desde la salud bucal, partiendo de la funcionalidad, la interdependencia de las experiencias positivas o negativas y la valoración otorgada por los otros. Para el fortalecimiento de la identidad alrededor de la salud bucal hay una asociación del individuo a sus prácticas de autocuidado legadas desde los diferentes espacios institucionales.