Implementation of a rapid diagnostic assay package for cryptococcosis, histoplasmosis and tuberculosis in people living with HIV in Paraguay.

BACKGROUND: Opportunistic infections (OIs) are common causes of mortality among people living with HIV (PLHIV). We determined prevalence and 30-day mortality due to histoplasmosis, cryptococcosis, and TB in PLHIV with advanced HIV disease (AHD). METHODS: PLHIV 18 years and older, with a CD4 + T-cell count of less than 350 cells/mm3 newly diagnosed with HIV infection or re-engaged in care after being without ART for more than 90 days (Group A). The second group included symptomatic PLHIV regardless of ART status or CD4 + T-cell count (Group B); all followed for 30 days. Detection of Histoplasma Ag (HisAg) in urine was done by enzyme immunoassay (EIA), Cryptococcus antigen (CrAg) was detected in serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) specimens by lateral flow assay (LFA), and lipoarabinomannan (LAM) detection in urine was by LFA (TB LAM) and in sputum by GeneXpert for diagnosis of Mycobacterium infections. RESULTS: From August 2021 to June 2022, 491 PLHIV were enrolled; 482 (98%) had a CD4 + T-cell result, and 381 patients (79%) were classified with AHD according to CD4 + T-cell count (< 200 CD4/mm3). Frequency of an OI was 38% (n = 145/381). Antigen test positivity rate was 16% (72/467) for TB-LAM, 9% (43/464) for HisAg, and 11% (51/484) for CrAg. Twenty-one of 34 (62%) patients receiving CSF CrAg tests were positive, confirming meningitis. Significant differences in 30-day mortality were observed in patients with an OI (16%) vs. no OI (7%) (p = 0.002). Mortality was highest in patients with histoplasmosis (25%), co-infection (22%), cryptococcosis (18% overall; 19% for cryptococcal meningitis), and TB (10%). CONCLUSIONS: TB and fungal OIs, including co-infection, were common in PLHIV in Paraguay and had high associated mortality. Laboratories and health facilities need access to CD4 + T-cell testing and rapid diagnostic assays.

Epidemiology and prevalence of mutations associated with resistance to macrolides and fluoroquinolones in Mycoplasma genitalium in a tertiary hospital from Madrid, Spain / Epidemiología y prevalencia de mutaciones asociadas a la resistencia a macrólidos y fluoroquinolonas en Mycoplasma genitalium en un hospital terciario de Madrid, España

Objectives: Mycoplasma genitalium causes persistent sexually transmitted infections. The aims of this study were to estimate the prevalence of resistances to macrolides and fluoroquinolones in M. genitalium and the sexually transmitted coinfections in patients at Hospital Universitario La Paz (Madrid, Spain). Material and methods: Patients attended between January and October 2021 were studied. Screening for sexually transmitted pathogens and detection of 23S rRNA and parC genes mutations were performed by real-time PCR (Allplex,SeegeneTM). Results: A total of 1,518 females and 1,136 males were studied. The prevalence of M. genitalium was 2.1%. The macrolides resistance rate was 51.8%. The mutations found were A2059G, A2058T and A2058G. The rate of resistance to fluoroquinolones was 17.8% being the G248T mutation (S83I) the most frequent. Seven males had some sexual transmitted coinfection. Conclusions: Although the percentage of M. genitalium infections is low, the high rate of resistance to macrolides makes it necessary to revise the protocols for diagnosis and empirical treatment of sexually transmitted infections. The use of fluoroquinolones is appropriate after screening of macrolide resistance profile. (AU)

Objetivos: Mycoplasma genitalium causa infecciones de transmisión sexual persistentes. Los objetivos de este trabajo fueron estimar la prevalencia de resistencias a macrólidos y fluoroquinolonas en M. genitalium así como las coinfecciones de transmisión sexual en pacientes del Hospital Universitario La Paz (Madrid, España). Material y métodos: Se estudiaron pacientes atendidos entre enero y octubre de 2021. El cribado de patógenos de transmisión sexual y la detección de mutaciones de los genes ARNr 23S y parC se realizaron por PCR en tiempo real (Allplex, SeegeneTM). Resultados: Se estudiaron 1.518 mujeres y 1.136 hombres. La prevalencia de M. genitalium fue del 2,1%. La tasa de resistencia a macrólidos fue del 51.8%. Las mutaciones encontradas fueron A2059G, A2058T y A2058G. La tasa de resistencias a fluoroquinolonas fue del 17.8% siendo la mutación G248T (S83I) la más frecuente. Siete hombres presentaron alguna coinfección de transmisión sexual. Conclusiones: Aunque el porcentaje de infecciones por M. genitalium es bajo, la elevada tasa de resistencias frente a macrólidos hace necesario modificar los protocolos de diagnóstico y tratamiento empírico de las infecciones de transmisión sexual. El uso de fluoroquinolonas es adecuado tras testar previamente el perfil de resistencia a macrólidos. (AU)

Intergenerational sex and early sexual debut are associated with HIV infection among transgender women in Paraguay.

INTRODUCTION: HIV prevalence among transgender women is high worldwide. The objectives of the present study were to estimate the current prevalence of HIV and identify factors associated with high HIV burden among transgender women in Paraguay. METHODS: Transgender women aged ≥15 years in four regions of Paraguay were recruited by Starfish sampling between February and March 2021. RESULTS: In total, 322 transgender women were included. Mean age was 31 years (range 15-67), and 102 had positive HIV test results (31.7%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 26.6-37.1). In multivariable analysis, factors associated with HIV infection were age at first intercourse ≤17 years (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 5.47; 95% CI 1.05-28.42), >10 years difference in age with the last sexual partner (aOR 1.60; 95% CI 1.04-2.46), substance use (mostly cocaine) (aOR 3.00; 95% CI 1.47-6.12), higher risk perception (aOR 3.08; 95% CI 1.53-6.17), not testing for HIV (aOR 1.23; 95% CI 1.09-1.39), and accessed by a peer educator (aOR 3.86; 95% CI 1.77-8.38). CONCLUSIONS: Sexual debut as a minor and a large age difference with sexual partners are associated with high burden of HIV among transgender women in Paraguay. Our study corroborates the finding of cocaine use during sex as a risk factor for HIV. Prevention programmes must address structural and social vulnerabilities to stem the tragically high burden of HIV among transgender women.

Proteogenomic and V(D)J Analysis of Human Decidual T Cells Highlights Unique Transcriptional Programming and Clonal Distribution.

Immunological tolerance toward the semiallogeneic fetus is one of many maternal adaptations required for a successful pregnancy. T cells are major players of the adaptive immune system and balance tolerance and protection at the maternal-fetal interface; however, their repertoire and subset programming are still poorly understood. Using emerging single-cell RNA sequencing technologies, we simultaneously obtained transcript, limited protein, and receptor repertoire at the single-cell level, from decidual and matched maternal peripheral human T cells. The decidua maintains a tissue-specific distribution of T cell subsets compared with the periphery. We find that decidual T cells maintain a unique transcriptome programming, characterized by restraint of inflammatory pathways by overexpression of negative regulators (DUSP, TNFAIP3, ZFP36) and expression of PD-1, CTLA-4, TIGIT, and LAG3 in some CD8 clusters. Finally, analyzing TCR clonotypes demonstrated decreased diversity in specific decidual T cell populations. Overall, our data demonstrate the power of multiomics analysis in revealing regulation of fetal-maternal immune coexistence.

HIV prevalence and associated risk factors among men who have sex with men in three regions of Paraguay, 2020.

BACKGROUND: Our study aimed to measure HIV prevalence and associated risk factors among men who have sex with men (MSM) in three regions of Paraguay in 2020. METHODS: MSM were recruited for cross-sectional surveys in three regions of Paraguay using respondent-driven sampling. Interview were conducted face-to-face to collect demographic characteristics and risk and preventive behaviors. The analysis assessed HIV prevalence and associated risk factors in the three samples of MSM within each region. RESULTS: A total of 1,207 MSM were recruited, including 559 in Asunción-Central, 245 in Alto Paraná, and 403 in Caaguazú. HIV prevalence was 24.2% (95% CI 20.6-27.9) in Asunción-Central, 10.2% (95% CI 6.7-14.6) in Alto Paraná, and 3.2% (95% CI 1.7-5.4) in Caaguazú. In Asunción-Central, associations with HIV were age ≥25 years (1.86, 95% CI 1.15-3.00), being employed (1.82, 95% CI 1.07-3.11), self-reporting as homosexual (1.90, 95% CI 1.06-3.43), having sex with a known HIV-positive partner acquisition (4.19, 95% CI 2.37-7.43), self-perceived as being at higher risk for HIV acquisition (4.15, 95% CI 2.54-6.77), and able to access condoms and lubricants (1.82, 95% CI 1.08-3.05). In Alto Paraná, associations with HIV were self-reporting as homosexual (4.33, 95% CI 1.19-15.65) and having higher HIV knowledge (2.53, 95% CI 0.97-6.61). In Caaguazú, associations with HIV were self-reporting as homosexual (7.06, 95% CI 1.53-32.46) and being diagnosed with depression (4.68, 95% CI 0.89-24.43). CONCLUSIONS: HIV prevalence among MSM in Paraguay varied by region, being highest in the capital and major metropolitan area of Asunción-Central, followed by the border area of Alto Paraná. While being self-identified as homosexual was associated with HIV in all three regions, other associations differed, indicating prevention programs need to be tailored to the locale.

HIV drug resistance in persons initiating or reinitiating first-line antiretroviral therapy in Paraguay: Results of a National Patient Survey.

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) drug resistance increases mortality and morbidity and antiretroviral therapy (ART) costs. We describe Paraguay's first nationally representative survey on pretreatment drug resistance (PDR) conducted among persons who initiated or reinitiated ART in 2019. ​​​​We conducted a cross-sectional survey of antiretroviral (ARV) drug resistance in Paraguay in 2019. Participants were sampled at four comprehensive care clinics where 90% of patients with HIV in Paraguay initiate ART. Patients included were adults ≥18 years old who initiated first-line ART or reinitiated the same first-line ART regimen after ≥3 months of discontinuation. Of 208 patients, 93.8% had no prior ART exposure, 3.8% reinitiated the same regimen, 2.4% had unknown prior ART exposure; and 31.3% had a CD4 count <200 cells/µl. Mutations associated with resistance were present in 15.4% of patients. Mutations associated with resistance to nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTI) were present in 13.0% of patients, nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors in 4.3%, and integrase inhibitors in 3.4%. Mutations associated with resistance to tenofovir were present in 1.0% of patients and emtricitabine/lamivudine in 1.4%. ​​Nearly one in six patients had PDR in Paraguay's first nationally representative sample. High NNRTI PDR prevalence underscores the need to accelerate the transition to dolutegravir-based first-line ART. The low PDR prevalence of tenofovir and emtricitabine is reassuring as these ARVs are part of the World Health Organization (WHO)-recommended oral pre-exposure prophylaxis regimen. The high proportion of individuals initiating ART at a late disease stage highlights the need to improve treatment linkage strategies and implement WHO rapid ART initiation recommendations.

Urinary Tract Infections in Hospitalized COVID-19 Patients, What's Up, Doc?

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic might have increased the risks of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs); however, several studies of HAI such as urinary tract infections (UTIs) and catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs) have shown contradictory results. The aim of this study is to assess the clinical features of UTIs and bacterial isolates from urine samples of hospitalized COVID-19 patients. We conducted a retrospective observational study including 87 COVID-19 patients with UTIs admitted to our centre. Bacterial UTIs presented were 87: 9 (10.3%) community-acquired UTIs (coinfection group) and 78 (89.6%) hospital-acquired UTIs (superinfection group). In the coinfection group, the most frequent type was non-CAUTI with 5 (55.5%) patients; however, the most frequent UTI in the superinfection group was CAUTI, with 53 (67.9%) patients. The median number of days of hospitalization in coinfected patients was lower than superinfection patients: 13 (IQR 11, 23) vs. 34 days (IQR 23, 47) p < 0.006. All UTI patients admitted to ICU, 38 (43.7%), belonged to the superinfection group. The mortality rate was 26.4% (23/87), 22/23 in the superinfection group. The most common microorganisms were E. coli 27 (28.4%), E. faecalis 25 (26.3%) and E. faecium 20 (21.1%). There was an increased incidence of E. faecalis and E. faecium in UTIs as well as hospital-acquired UTIs. This can be related to urethral catheterization during hospitalization, UCI admissions and the number of days of hospitalization.

Pacemaker pocket infection by Nocardia carnea. First case description and literature review.

Acid-fast gram-positive bacilli are a seldom causal agent of cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIED) infections. A pacemaker pocket infection by Nocardia carnea is presented. The objective of this review is to know the incidence of pacemaker pocket infection by Nocardia and to collect information to contribute to the management of this infection. We describe both our case and those found in the literature. Only three cases were found. Two of the patients were older than 70 years without immunosuppression, presenting erythema at the pacemaker implantation site as main symptom. Bloodstream infection was registered in one of them. Three microorganisms were sensitive to cotrimoxazole. The minimum time of antibiotic therapy was 6 weeks. An incomplete device removal was done in one case, resulting in an unfavorable clinical course. The incidence of pacemaker pocket infection by these microorganisms is low, resolved in most cases with antibiotic treatment and device removal.

Assay system for mesocotyl elongation and hydrotropism of maize primary root in response to low moisture gradient.

We designed and validated a test system that simulates a growth environment for Zea mays L. maize seedlings under conditions of low moisture gradient in darkness. This system allowed us to simultaneously measure mesocotyl elongation and the primary root hydrotropic response in seedlings before the emergence phase in a collection of maize hybrids. We found great variation in these two traits with statistically significant reduction of their elongations under the low moisture gradient condition that indicate the richness of maize genetic diversity. Hence, the objective of designing a new test system that evaluates the association between these underground traits with the potential use to measure other traits in maize seedlings related to early vigor was achieved.

Multiomic analysis reveals decidual-specific transcriptional programing of MAIT cells.

PROBLEM: Mucosal-Associated Invariant T (MAIT) cells have been recently identified at the maternal-fetal interface. However, transcriptional programming of decidual MAIT cells in pregnancy remains poorly understood. METHOD OF STUDY: We employed a multiomic approach to address this question. Mononuclear cells from the decidua basalis and parietalis, and control PBMCs, were analyzed via flow cytometry to investigate MAIT cells in the decidua and assess their transcription factor expression. In a separate study, both decidual and matched peripheral MAIT cells were analyzed using Cellular Indexing of Transcriptomes and Epitopes by Sequencing (CITE-seq) coupled with gene expression analysis. Lastly, decidual MAIT cells were stimulated with E.coli and expression of MR1 by antigen presenting cells was measured to evaluate decidual MAIT cell function. RESULTS: First, we identified MAIT cells in both the decidua basalis and parietalis. CITE-seq, coupled with scRNA-seq gene expression analysis, highlighted transcriptional programming differences between decidual and matched peripheral MAIT cells at a single cell resolution. Transcription factor expression analysis further highlighted transcriptional differences between decidual MAIT cells and non-matched peripheral MAIT cells. Functionally, MAIT cells are skewed towards IFNγ and TNFα production upon stimulation, with E.coli leading to IFNγ production. Lastly, we demonstrate that MR1, the antigen presenting molecule restricting MAIT cells, is expressed by decidual APCs. CONCLUSION: MAIT cells are present in the decidua basalis and obtain a unique gene expression profile. The presence of MR1 on APCs coupled with in vitro activation by E.coli suggests that MAIT cells might be involved in tissue-repair mechanisms at the maternal-fetal interface.

Barriers to and enablers of attendance at diabetic retinopathy screening experienced by immigrants to Canada from multiple cultural and linguistic minority groups.

AIM: To identify barriers to/enablers of attendance at eye screening among three groups of immigrantsto Canada from cultural/linguistic minority groups living with diabetes. METHODS: Using a patient-oriented research approach leveraging Diabetes Action Canada's patient engagement platform, we interviewed a purposeful sample of people with type 2 diabetes who had immigrated to Canada from: Pakistan (interviews in Urdu), China (interviews in Mandarin) and French-speaking African and Caribbean nations (interviews in French). We collected and analysed data based on the Theoretical Domains Framework covering key modifiable factors that may operate as barriers to or enablers of attending eye screening. We used directed content analysis to code barrier/enabler domains. Barriers/enablers were mapped to behaviour change techniques to inform future intervention development. RESULTS: We interviewed 39 people (13 per group). Many barriers/enablers were consistent across groups, including views about harms caused by screening itself, practical appointment issues including forgetting, screening costs, wait times and making/getting to an appointment, lack of awareness about retinopathy screening, language barriers, and family and clinical support. Group-specific barriers/enablers included a preference to return to one's country of birth for screening, the impact of winter, and preferences for alternative medicine. CONCLUSION: Our results can inform linguistic and culturally competent interventions to support immigrants living with diabetes in attending eye screening to prevent avoidable blindness.

Accesibilidad en primer nivel de atención en tiempos de pandemia. los primeros pasos en la sistematización de la atención integral de las mujeres mayores de 18 años de la Ciudad de Benito Juárez, provincia de BS AS / Accessibility in the first level of care in times of pandemic. the first steps in the systematization of comprehensive care for women over 18 years of age in the City of Benito Juárez, province of BS AS

Las campañas de comunicación son instrumentos útiles para aumentar la concientización e involucrar a la ciudadanía en distintas problemáticas. OBJETIVOS detectar y analizar las actitudes y percepciones de los y las adolescentes frente a las campañas de comunicación que buscan promover una alimentación saludable en Argentina. MÉTODOS 6 grupos focales (n=6) de adolescentes entre 13 y 15 años de distintos niveles socioeconómicos. RESULTADOS Según los relatos de los participantes, una campaña eficaz debería incluir los siguientes conceptos principales a) temáticas de interés de la población objetivo, que les resulte cercana y cotidiana b) mensajes informativos con énfasis en la libertad de elección (y no con tono imperativo o directivo), y/o mensajes informativos de pérdida para comunicar consecuencias o riesgos de determinadas acciones c) Imágenes relacionadas directamente con la temática; d) textos cortos, claros y concisos; frases cortas que generen impacto con información novedosa y con lenguaje comprensible; e) contenido claro, simples, impactantes visualmente y de corta duración; f) material con imágenes estáticas por sobre el uso de videos, publicaciones con bajo contenido de texto, uso de colores, tipografías. DISCUSIÓN Este estudio brinda elementos, tanto desde la matriz de comunicación-persuasión como desde el marketing social,representando un insumo para el diseño de campañas más efectivas para la promoción de la alimentación saludable en población que interpelen a los adolescentes.

Resistencia a antibióticos del Staphylococcus aureus en estudiantes de una facultad de odontología / Antibiotic resistance of Staphylococcus aureus in students of a dental school

Introducción: el Staphylococcus aureus es un coco gram positivo que causa diferentes tipos de infecciones; circula no solo en la comunidad sino también en centros hospitalarios. El profesional de odontología está en contacto continuo y por largos periodos durante la atención clínica, lo que incrementa el riesgo de infección. Objetivo: evaluar la resistencia a algunos antibióticos del Staphylococcus aureus en estudiantes de una facultad de odontología. Material y métodos: estudio de corte transversal en estudiantes de 9° y 10° semestre de clínica odontológica de la ciudad de Medellín, Colombia (n=62) que cumplieran con los criterios de inclusión: estar realizando práctica clínica y no estar en tratamiento con antibiótico en los últimos tres meses, y como criterios de exclusión: no haber presentado fiebre, tos, dificultad para respirar, erupciones cutáneas, ni haber estado sometido a procedimientos quirúrgicos y hospitalizaciones en los últimos seis meses. Se recolectaron datos sociodemográficos y la presencia de S. aureus mediante la toma de muestras de fosas nasales. La identidad de la bacteria se verificó mediante la coloración de gram, pruebas de catalasa, coagulasa y crecimiento en manitol sal. A los aislamientos positivos se les realizó tamizaje con los siguientes antibióticos: cefoxitin, oxacilina, vancomicina, eritromicina y ciprofloxacina. Resultados: del total de muestras analizadas el 67,7 por ciento resultaron positivas para S. aureus y de estas el 28,5 por ciento resultaron resistentes a cefoxitina, 35,7 por ciento a oxacilina y el 7,14 por ciento a ciprofloxacina. Conclusiones: la presencia del S. aureus superó el 60 por ciento en la población de estudio y mostró mayor resistencia y su presencia estaba relacionada con haber tenido sintomatología respiratoria. En el presente estudio S. aureus resultó ser más resistente a la cefoxitina y a la oxacilina que a la ciprofloxacina(AU)

Introduction: Staphylococcus aureus is a gram-positive coccus that causes different types of infections. It spreads not only in the community but also in hospital centers. Dental professionals are in continuous contact with this bacterium for long periods of time during clinical care, which increases the risk of infection. Objective: To evaluate antibiotic resistance of Staphylococcus aureus in students of a dental school. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in ninth and tenth semester students of a dental clinic in Medellin, Colombia (n = 62) that met the inclusion criteria: carrying out clinical practice and not receiving antibiotic treatment during the last three months; they also met the following exclusion criteria: not having fever, cough, shortness of breath or skin rashes as well as not having undergone surgical procedures or been hospitalized during the last six months. Sociodemographic data were collected. The presence of S. aureus was detected by taking samples from the nostrils. The identity of bacteria was verified by gram staining, catalase and coagulase tests and growth on mannitol salt. Positive samples were screened using the following antibiotics: cefoxitin, oxacillin, vancomycin, erythromycin, and ciprofloxacin. Results: Of the total of samples analyzed, 67.7 percent were positive for S. aureus and of these, 28.5 percent were resistant to cefoxitin, 35.7 percent to oxacillin and 7.14 percent to ciprofloxacin. Conclusions: Staphylococcus aureus was present in 60 percent of the study population, showing great resistance and being associated with respiratory symptoms. In this study, S. aureus was found to be more resistant to cefoxitin and oxacillin than to ciprofloxacin(AU)

High HIV prevalence among transgender women in Paraguay.

Transgender women have been understudied and underserved in Paraguay; data are urgently needed to understand their HIV prevention and care needs. To estimate HIV prevalence and related risk and preventive behaviors among trans women in Paraguay, we conducted a cross-sectional survey in 2017. We employed starfish sampling - a hybrid venue-based and peer-referral method combining recruitment at randomly sampled venues and randomly selected clients from program lists, followed by short-chain referrals of eligible peers. Among 304 trans women enrolled, HIV prevalence was 24.8% (95% confidence interval [CI] 18.5-31.2%), with risk increasing with age (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 1.06 per year, 95% CI 1.03-1.10), residence in Asunción department (AOR 4.75, 95% CI 1.57-14.36), and cocaine use (AOR 2.09, 95% CI 1.11-3.95). Trans women in Paraguay need to be prioritized for interventions with high HIV prevention efficacy. Substance use interventions to address cocaine use may also yield prevention benefits for trans women in our context.

Evaluation of three immunochromatographic tests for rapid detection of antibodies against SARS-CoV-2.

Lateral flow immunoassays (LFIA) for rapid detection of specific antibodies (IgM and IgG) against SARS-CoV-2 in different human specimens have been developed in response to the pandemic. The aim of this study is to evaluate three immunocromathographic assays (Sienna®, Wondfo® and Prometheus®) for detection of antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 in serum samples, considering RT-qPCR as a reference. A total of 145 serum samples from 145 patients with clinical suspicion of COVID-19 were collected: all of the samples were tested with Sienna®, 117 with Wondfo® and 89 with Prometheus®. The overall results of sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value obtained were as follows: 64.4%, 75%, 85.5% and 47.8% with Sienna®; 45.2%, 81.8%, 80.5% and 47.4% with Wondfo® and 75.5%, 12.5%, 51.4% and 29.4% with Prometheus®. The accuracy of the test for Sienna®, Wondfo® and Prometheus® was 67.6%, 59% and 47.2%, with a prevalence of COVID-19 of 69.7%, 62.4% and 55.1% respectively. Sensitivity of the three tests (Sienna®, Wondfo® and Prometheus® respectively) along the three different stages was 36.6%, 18.8% and 68.6% in the early stage (first week); 81.3%, 74.1% and 90.9% in the intermediate stage (second week) and 100%, 83.3% and 100% in the late stage (third week). The results demonstrate that even though Prometheus® presented a high sensitivity, the specificity was notably lower than the other two tests. Sienna® showed the greatest contrast between sensitivity and specificity, achieving the best accuracy, followed by Wondfo®. The sensitivity of the three ICT assays was higher in late stages of the disease.

Identification of unique clusters of T, dendritic, and innate lymphoid cells in the peritoneal fluid of ovarian cancer patients.

PROBLEM: We hypothesize that activated peritoneal immune cells can be redirected to target ovarian tumors. Here, we obtain fundamental knowledge of the peritoneal immune environment through deep immunophenotyping of T cells, dendritic cells (DC), and innate lymphoid cells (ILC) of ovarian cancer patients. METHOD OF STUDY: T cells, DC, and ILC from ascites of ovarian cancer patients (n = 15) and peripheral blood of post-menopausal healthy donors (n = 6) were immunophenotyped on a BD Fortessa cytometer using three panels-each composed of 16 antibodies. The data were analyzed manually and by t-SNE/DensVM. CA125 levels were obtained from patient charts. RESULTS: We observed decreased CD3+ T cells and a higher proportion of activated CD4+ and effector memory CD4+ /CD8+ T cells, plasmacytoid DC, CD1c+ and CD141+ myeloid DC and CD56Hi NK cells in ascites. t-SNE/DensVM identified eight T cell, 17 DC, and 17 ILC clusters that were unique in the ascites compared to controls. Hierarchical clustering of cell frequency distinctly segregated the T-cell and ILC clusters from controls. Increased CA125 levels were associated with decreased CD8+ /CD45RA+ /CD45RO- /CCR7- T cells. CONCLUSION: The identified immune clusters serve as the basis for interrogation of the peritoneal immune environment and the development of novel immunologic modalities against ovarian cancer.

The role of RORγt at maternal-fetal interface during murine pregnancy.

PROBLEM: Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs, including NK cells) and their subsets are the most frequent lymphocytes at the maternal-fetal interface (decidua). Recent recognition of extensive ILC subset diversity at mucosal sites and the possible role they might play at different stages of pregnancy poses questions about their composition and lineage stability. Namely, RORγt-dependent ILC3s have been recognized as a key cellular mediator of tissue organization in the gut and secondary lymphoid organs, prompting examination of their distribution and role in decidua during pregnancy. METHOD OF STUDY: We employed highly polychromatic flow cytometry with conventional and machine learning-aided analysis to map ILC subsets and dissected the role of canonical transcription factor RORγt using fate-mapping animals and RORγt-/- animals. RESULTS: We demonstrate a comprehensive immunome map of ILCs/NKs, revealing a dynamic interface even in the absence of antigenic or allogeneic challenge. Strikingly, we demonstrate plasticity of RORγt expression in decidual ILCs with across gestation. However, gross reproductive efficiency is not affected in RORγt-/- animals. CONCLUSION: These results indicated that RORγt+ ILCs are highly plastic at the maternal-fetal interface, but dispensable for normal pregnancy, revealing a novel mechanism of transcriptional immunoregulation in pregnancy.

Prevalencia del VIH/Sífilis y comportamientos de riesgo en mujeres trabajadoras sexuales en Paraguay / Prevalence of HIV/Syphilis and risk behaviors in female sex workers in Paraguay

Introducción: En Paraguay, la epidemia del VIH se encuentra concentrada en población clave. La ruta principal de transmisión de las infecciones de transmisión del VIH y la Sífilis es la sexual. Las mujeres trabajadoras sexuales (MTS) presentan riesgo incrementado debido a su trabajo sexual y sus comportamientos de riesgo. Objetivo: Determinar la prevalencia de VIH/Sífilis y el comportamiento de riesgo de la población de mujeres trabajadoras sexuales en seis regiones sanitarias del país durante el año 2017. Material y Métodos: El diseño del estudio fue observacional, corte transversal. La metodología utilizada para la selección de la muestra fue la de TLS (muestreo tiempo-ubicación). Se utilizaron pruebas rápidas como tamizaje inicial en todas las mujeres que ingresaron al estudio y a la vez se aplicó un instrumento para los comportamientos de riesgo. Resultados: Ingresaron 643 MTS, la edad media fue de 27 años, donde el 50% tenían entre 22 y 34 años. El 88.11% (585) realizaba el trabajo sexual en locales (prostíbulos, saunas, salón de masajes y departamentos) y el 11.89% (58) en paradas en las calles. La prevalencia del VIH fue de 1.34% (CI95% 0.513.48) y de Sífilis 8.59% (CI95% 5.78-12.59). El uso de condón en la última relación con el cliente fue de 96.02% y del 25.78% con la pareja estable en la última relación sexual. El consumo de drogas en los últimos 6 meses por más de 25 días fue de 10.78% (44/643) para la cocaína. El 54.17% de las MTS encuestadas se consideraron en igual riesgo de adquirir el VIH en comparación con el resto de las personas. Conclusión: La prevalencia de VIH fue baja y de Sífilis elevada en MTS. Se observó bajo porcentaje de uso de condón con la pareja estable, alto consumo de drogas y baja percepción de riesgo. Es importante considerar estos aspectos en el momento de planificar las intervenciones en MTS: parejas, drogas y percepción de riesgo para que se pueda lograr la eficiencia de las mismas. Palabras clave: Seroprevalencia de VIH; Serodiagnóstico de la Sífilis; Grupos de Riesgo; Paraguay

Introduction: The HIV epidemic in Paraguay is concentrated in key population. The main route of HIV and Syphilis infections transmission is sexual. Female sex workers (FSW) have increased risk due to their sex work and risk behaviors. Objective: To determine the HIV/Syphilis prevalence and risk behavior in the population of female sex workers in six health regions from the country during 2017. Material and Methods: This is a cross-sectional study. The methodology used for the selection of the sample was the TLS (time-location sampling). Rapid tests were used as initial screening of all women who entered the study and at the same time an instrument for risk behaviors was applied. Results: Of 643 FSW enrolled, the average age was 27 years, where 50% were between 22 and 34 years old. 88.11% (585) performed sex work in premises (brothels, saunas, massage parlors and departments) and 11.89% (58) at street. The HIV prevalence was 1.34% (95% CI 0.513.48) and 8.59% Syphilis (95% CI 5.78-12.59). Condom use in the last relationship with the client was 96.02% and 25.78% with the stable partner in the last sexual relationship. 54.17% of the FSW surveyed were considered at equal risk of acquiring HIV compared to the rest of the people. Conclusion: The prevalence of HIV was low and Syphilis was high in MTS. A low percentage of condom use was observed with the stable partner, high drug use and low risk perception. It is important to consider these aspects when planning interventions in MTS: couples, drugs and low risk perception so that their efficiency can be achieved. Keywords: HIV seroprevalence; Serodiagnostic of Syphilis; Risk Groups; Paraguay

Talleres de masaje para aliviar el estrés en amas de casa / Massage workshops to relieve stress in housewives

Resumen En Cuba, como en muchos países del orbe, existen programas que tributan a preponderar el papel de la mujer y la familia en la sociedad, elemento que aún, por diferentes causas, no está logrado, por muchos esfuerzos que se han realizado. Este segmento de la población sigue sufriendo una sobrecarga de trabajo, a partir de que, además de dedicarse al cuidado de los hijos y atender sus hogares, también son marginadas dentro del marco familiar. El resultado científico que se propone tuvo como propósito elaborar talleres de masaje, desde la visión de la educación popular, que contribuyeran a aliviar el estrés y ofrecer una vida sana y saludable a las mujeres y las familias, como sectores más vulnerables y como valor agregado, ocupar su tiempo libre, que constituye una prioridad del estado cubano. Estos elementos fueron constatados con la aplicación de los diferentes métodos de investigación de la propia pedagogía de los oprimidos, lo que permitió conocer, en primer lugar, las necesidades que tenían los implicados seleccionados y, al mismo tiempo, la disposición de integrarse para atenuar dichas carencias, lo que fundamenta el valor científico de la investigación. La investigación incluye estudiantes del plan montaña, del municipio de San Cristóbal, provincia Artemisa, Cuba. Dentro de los métodos empleados, se encuentran: la observación, la encuesta y la entrevista. Se desarrollan un grupo de talleres de masaje para amas de casa, con un grado favorable de aceptación e impacto en la comunidad.

Abstract In Cuba, as in many countries of the world, there are programs that contribute to the preponderance of the role of women and the family in society, an element that still, for different reasons, has not been achieved, due to many efforts that have been made. This segment of the population continues to suffer from work overload, since, in addition to caring for children and looking after their homes, they are also marginalized within the family framework. The purpose of the proposed scientific result was to elaborate massage workshops, from the perspective of popular education that would contribute to relieve stress and offer a healthy and wholesome living to women and families, as the most vulnerable sectors and as an added value, to occupy their free time, which is a priority of the Cuban state. These elements were verified with the application of the different research methods of the own pedagogy of the oppressed, which allowed to know, in the first place, the needs the selected implied ones had and, at the same time, the disposition to be integrated to attenuate these deficiencies, which bases the scientific value of the research. The research includes students from the mountain plan, from the San Cristóbal municipality, Artemisa province, Cuba. Among the methods used are: observation, survey and interview. A group of massage workshops are developed for housewives, with a favorable degree of acceptance and impact in the community.

Molecular epidemiology of hepatitis B virus in Paraguay.

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a leading cause of severe chronic liver disease worldwide. The HBV epidemiology in Latin American countries is complex and the data is still scanty and fragmentary. The aim of this study was to investigate the distribution of HBV genotypes in Paraguay and to estimate the viral population dynamic and spread pattern of the main phylogenetic group. To this end, partial and complete genome sequences were obtained from 60 blood donor candidates and analysed by phylogenetic and Bayesian phylodynamic approaches. The phylogenetic analysis based on sequences of partial Polymerase/Pre-S1 overlapping region showed a predominance of the Native American subgenotype F4 (81.7%), the presence of the European subgenotypes A2 (1.7%) and D3 (8.3%), the African subgenotype A1 (3, 5%) and the Asian subgenotypes B2 (1.7%) and C2 (1.7%). The distribution of HBV genotypes was in accordance with the ethnic composition of the population. The phylogeographic analysis of subgenotype F4 complete genomes suggests that this lineage emerged and spread in the last 300 years. Paraguay was the most probable location of the common ancestor. The lineage diverged into two main clades and spread to neighbor regions, mainly Bolivia and Northwest Argentina, and Buenos Aires. The phylogeny showed a scanty geographical structure and a complex migratory pattern. In conclusion, the HBV genotypes circulating in Paraguay reflect the ethnic origin of the population. The distribution of genotypes and the phylogeographic reconstruction showed the impact of both global and local migrations in shaping the HBV molecular epidemiology in the region.