The Association of Teen Pregnancy and Violence: A Multilevel Study in Colombia.

Background: Colombia has a high teen pregnancy (TP) rate. In 2018, one in five pregnancies was from teen mothers between 10 and 19 years of age. While TP rates are declining globally, Colombia's TP rate decline has been particularly low, despite sexual education and contraception campaigns. Other factors must be studied to prevent TP. Colombia has a long history of violence. We aim to assess whether there is a relationship between TP and exposure to violence in Colombia. Methods: Data from the Colombian Demographic and Health Survey 2015 and the Colombian National Department of Statistics were analyzed for association between TP and sexual violence, physical violence, physical punishment as a child, and community violence. Univariate, bivariate, multivariate, and multilevel binary logistic regression models were calculated using SPSS v.25 and HLM v.7. Results: Fifteen percent of teens were pregnant. Emotional violence was reported by 47%, sexual harassment by 27%, physical violence by 17%, physical punishment as a child by 7%, and unwanted sex by 2%. Unwanted sex (odds ratio [OR]: 3.18, 95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 1.96-5.16), sexual harassment (OR: 2.43, 95% CI: 1.89-3.14), and physical punishment (OR: 20.30, 95% CI: 7.96-22.81) were associated with adolescent pregnancy. In unadjusted models, emotional violence was associated (OR: 1.22, 95% CI 1.06-1.40) and community violence showed a tendency (OR: 1.24, 95% CI: 0.99-1.55). Physical violence was not associated. Conclusions: Violence exposure and particularly physical punishment, unwanted sex and sexual harassment were associated with TP incidence and should be considered risk factors for TP.

Buenas Prácticas de Manufactura de carnicerías y prevalencia de Escherichia coli productor de toxina Shiga y Salmonella spp. aisladas en carne molida de carnicerías de Asunción, Paraguay

La inocuidad de la carne comercializada debe estar garantizada en la cadena de producción, para evitar enfermedades transmitidas por alimentos (ETA). Escherichia coli productor de toxina Shiga (STEC) y Salmonella spp. pueden encontrarse en el tracto gastrointestinal de los bovinos y contaminar la carne de consumo humano, pudiendo causar enfermedades en el hombre. Este trabajo tuvo como objetivo evaluar las condiciones higiénico-sanitarias de 52 carnicerías localizadas en Asunción y detectar la frecuencia de STEC y Salmonella spp. en muestras de carne molida. Las condiciones higiénico-sanitarias se evaluaron mediante la estimación del riesgo, utilizando una escala de clasificación por categorías. La detección de STEC y Salmonella spp. se realizó por PCR en tiempo real. En la evaluación inicial, se clasificaron a 33% de las carnicerías como de alto y moderado riesgo. Se detectó STEC no-O157 en un 50% (130/258) de las muestras y Salmonella spp. en un 11% (29/258). Se realizaron acciones de mejora. En la etapa post-intervención, no se detectaron carnicerías de alto riesgo. En el muestreo de seguimiento se detectó un 29% (66/237) de muestras positivas para STEC no-O157 y 7% (16 /237) para Salmonella spp. Este estudio permitió realizar recomendaciones específicas y detalladas a cada carnicería, lo que tuvo un efecto significativo en la mejora de sus condiciones. Esta situación resalta la importancia de continuar fortaleciendo la vigilancia multisectorial y multidisciplinaria. Es imperativo que los establecimientos que se dedican al rubro, implementen las Buenas Prácticas de Manufactura (BPM) como una medida para reducir los riesgos asociados.

The safety of marketed meat must be guaranteed in the production chain, to avoid foodborne illness. Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) and Salmonella spp. can be found in the gastrointestinal tract of cattle and contaminate meat for human consumption, potentially causing diseases in humans. This work aimed to evaluate the hygienic-sanitary conditions of 52 butcher shops located in Asunción and detect the frequency of STEC and Salmonella spp. in ground beef samples. Hygienic-sanitary conditions were evaluated by estimating risk, using a categorical classification scale. The detection of STEC and Salmonella spp. was performed by real-time PCR. In the initial evaluation, 33% of the butcher shops were classified as high and moderate risk. STEC non-O157 was detected in 50% (130/258) of the samples and Salmonella spp. in 11% (29/258). Improvement actions were carried out. In the post-intervention stage, no high-risk butcher shops were detected. In the follow-up sampling, 29% (66/237) of positive samples were detected for STEC non-O157 and 7% (16/237) for Salmonella spp. This study allowed specific and detailed recommendations to be made to each butcher shop, which had a significant effect on improving their conditions. This situation highlights the importance of continuing to strengthen multisectoral and multidisciplinary surveillance. It is imperative that establishments dedicated to the sector implement Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) as a measure to reduce associated risks.

First molecular characterization of Escherichia coli O157:H7 isolates from clinical samples in Paraguay using whole-genome sequencing Molecular characterization of Escherichia coli O157 isolates from Paraguay / Primera caracterización molecular de aislamientos de Escherichia coli O157:H7 provenientes de muestras clínicas en Paraguay utilizando secuenciación de genoma completo

Abstract Escherichia coli O157:H7 is a foodborne pathogen implicated in numerous outbreaks worldwide that has the ability to cause extra-intestinal complications in humans. The Enteropathogens Division of the Central Public Health Laboratory (CPHL) in Paraguay is working to improve the genomic characterization of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) to enhance laboratory-based surveillance and investigation of foodborne disease outbreaks. Whole genome sequencing (WGS) is proposed worldwide to be used in the routine laboratory as a high-resolution tool that allows to have all the results in a single workflow. This study aimed to carry out for the first time, the genomic characterization by WGS of nine STEC O157:H7 strains isolated from human samples in Paraguay. We were able to identify virulence and resistance mechanisms, MLST subtype, and even establish the phylogenetic relationships between isolates. Furthermore, we detected the presence of strains belonging to hypervirulent clade 8 in most of the isolates studied.

Resumen Escherichia coli O157:H7 es un patógeno transmitido por alimentos implicado en numerosos brotes en todo el mundo y es capaz de causar complicaciones extraintestinales en humanos. La sección de «Enteropatógenos¼ del Laboratorio Central de Salud Pública trabaja en mejorar la caracterización genómica de STEC, de modo de potenciar la vigilancia laboratorial y la investigación de brotes de enfermedades transmitidas por alimentos. La secuenciación de genoma completo (WGS, por sus siglas en inglés) se propone a nivel mundial como una herramienta de alta resolución para ser utilizada en el laboratorio de rutina, ya que permite obtener todos los resultados en un único proceso. El objetivo de este trabajo fue llevar a cabo, por primera vez, la caracterización genómica por WGS de nueve cepas STEC O157:H7 aisladas en Paraguay a partir de muestras de origen humano. Pudimos identificar los factores de virulencia, los mecanismos de resistencia, el subtipo MLST, e incluso pudimos establecer la relación filogenética entre los aislamientos. Además, detectamos que la mayoría de las cepas pertenecían al clado hipervirulento 8.

Three reasons why parental burnout is more prevalent in individualistic countries: a mediation study in 36 countries.

PURPOSE: The prevalence of parental burnout, a condition that has severe consequences for both parents and children, varies dramatically across countries and is highest in Western countries characterized by high individualism. METHOD: In this study, we examined the mediators of the relationship between individualism measured at the country level and parental burnout measured at the individual level in 36 countries (16,059 parents). RESULTS: The results revealed three mediating mechanisms, that is, self-discrepancies between socially prescribed and actual parental selves, high agency and self-directed socialization goals, and low parental task sharing, by which individualism leads to an increased risk of burnout among parents. CONCLUSION: The results confirm that the three mediators under consideration are all involved, and that mediation was higher for self-discrepancies between socially prescribed and actual parental selves, then parental task sharing, and lastly self-directed socialization goals. The results provide some important indications of how to prevent parental burnout at the societal level in Western countries.

First molecular characterization of Escherichia coli O157:H7 isolates from clinical samples in Paraguay using whole-genome sequencing.

Escherichia coli O157:H7 is a foodborne pathogen implicated in numerous outbreaks worldwide that has the ability to cause extra-intestinal complications in humans. The Enteropathogens Division of the Central Public Health Laboratory (CPHL) in Paraguay is working to improve the genomic characterization of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) to enhance laboratory-based surveillance and investigation of foodborne disease outbreaks. Whole genome sequencing (WGS) is proposed worldwide to be used in the routine laboratory as a high-resolution tool that allows to have all the results in a single workflow. This study aimed to carry out for the first time, the genomic characterization by WGS of nine STEC O157:H7 strains isolated from human samples in Paraguay. We were able to identify virulence and resistance mechanisms, MLST subtype, and even establish the phylogenetic relationships between isolates. Furthermore, we detected the presence of strains belonging to hypervirulent clade 8 in most of the isolates studied.

Characterization of ADME Gene Variation in Colombian Population by Exome Sequencing.

In genes related to drug pharmacokinetics, molecular variations determine interindividual variability in the therapeutic efficacy and adverse drug reactions. The assessment of single-nucleotide variants (SNVs) is used with growing frequency in pharmacogenetic practice, and recently, high-throughput genomic analyses obtained through next-generation sequencing (NGS) have been recognized as powerful tools to identify common, rare and novel variants. These genetic profiles remain underexplored in Latin-American populations, including Colombia. In this study, we investigated the variability of 35 genes included in the ADME core panel (absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion) by whole-exome sequencing (WES) of 509 unrelated Colombian individuals with no previous reports of adverse drug reactions. Rare variants were filtered according to the minor allele frequencies (MAF) <1% and potential deleterious consequences. The functional impact of novel and rare missense variants was assessed using an optimized framework for pharmacogenetic variants. Bioinformatic analyses included the identification of clinically validated variants described in PharmGKB and ClinVar databases. Ancestry from WES data was inferred using the R package EthSEQ v2.1.4. Allelic frequencies were compared to other populations reported in the public gnomAD database. Our analysis revealed that rare missense pharmacogenetic variants were 2.1 times more frequent than common variants with 121 variants predicted as potentially deleterious. Rare loss of function (LoF) variants were identified in 65.7% of evaluated genes. Regarding variants with clinical pharmacogenetic effect, our study revealed 89 sequence variations in 28 genes represented by missense (62%), synonymous (22.5%), splice site (11.2%), and indels (3.4%). In this group, ABCB1, ABCC2, CY2B6, CYP2D6, DPYD, NAT2, SLC22A1, and UGTB2B7, are the most polymorphic genes. NAT2, CYP2B6 and DPYD metabolizer phenotypes demonstrated the highest variability. Ancestry analysis indicated admixture in 73% of the population. Allelic frequencies exhibit significant differences with other Latin-American populations, highlighting the importance of pharmacogenomic studies in populations of different ethnicities. Altogether, our data revealed that rare variants are an important source of variability in pharmacogenes involved in the pharmacokinetics of drugs and likely account for the unexplained interindividual variability in drug response. These findings provide evidence of the utility of WES for pharmacogenomic testing and into clinical practice.

Prescription for COVID-19 by non-medical professionals during the pandemic in Colombia: a cross-sectional study.

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has led to an increase in the behavior of self-medication (SM). Given the massive release of misleading information during the pandemic, some pharmacies recommend drugs such as ivermectin, azithromycin, and hydroxychloroquine that are not useful for preventing or treating COVID-19 and could expose patients to unnecessary adverse drug reactions (ADRs), drug-drug interactions (DDIs), disease masking, and antibiotic resistance. Rationale: SM with drugs advertised for COVID-19 can have consequences, and people should be aware of approved uses, potential contraindications, and ADRs. Thus, the aim of this study was to know the drug therapies including natural products and homeopathic drugs offered by Colombian pharmaceutical establishments for the prevention and treatment of COVID-19, as well as the information provided on the safe use of the product. Methods: An observational, cross-sectional mystery shopping study was carried out to determine the pharmaceutical alternatives for the management of COVID-19 offered by pharmaceutical establishments (drugstores, pharmacies, homeopathic pharmacies, and nutritional supplements stores) in Colombia, and information related to the safe use of the product. The study included 482 pharmaceutical establishments from 16 Colombian departments. Data collection was done through telephone calls to each of the establishments following an interview protocol pretending to be a patient who presents symptoms related to COVID-19. Results: About 57.3% (276) of the establishments recommended a product for the treatment of COVID-19 infection, 66.6% (321) asked whether the caller had COVID-19 symptoms and what they are, and 44.2% (213) suggested taking a COVID-19 test. Of 59 drugs suggested by pharmacies, the most recommended were azithromycin, ivermectin, acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and ASA (aspirin). From the establishments that recommended a product, dosage was indicated in 85.5% (236) of the pharmaceutical establishments and 14.5% (40) of the establishments reported the most common adverse effects of this substance. About 9.4% (26) of the establishments reported possible interactions of the recommended drugs and substances with food, beverages, or supplements.Conclusion: Pharmaceutical establishments in Colombia seem to have significantly contributed to self-medication for COVID-19 in Colombia during the pandemic. This behavior is inappropriate, since the mild forms of the disease do not have a specific treatment. Plain Language Summary: Self-medication induced by pharmaceutical establishments in Colombia during the COVID-19 pandemic Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has led to an increase in the behavior of self-medication (SM). Given the massive release of misleading information during the pandemic, some pharmacies recommend drugs such as ivermectin, azithromycin, hydroxychloroquine among others, which are not useful for preventing or treating COVID-19 and could expose patients to unnecessary side effects and interactions with other medications. People should be aware of the approved and non-approved uses, and potential side effects of these drugs. Rationale: The aim of this study was to know the drugs, including natural products and homeopathic drugs, offered by Colombian pharmaceutical establishments for the prevention and treatment of COVID-19, as well as the information provided on the safe use of the product. Methods: The study was done using the mystery shopping method, collecting data through telephone calls to each of the establishments by a trained individual pretending to be a patient with COVID-19 symptoms. The study included 482 pharmaceutical establishments from 16 Colombian departments. Results: Of 59 drugs suggested by pharmacies, the most recommended were azithromycin, ivermectin, acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and aspirin. The recommended dose was indicated in 85.5% (236) of the pharmaceutical establishments, and 14.5% (40) of them reported the most common adverse effects of the recommended product. About 9.4% (26) of the establishments reported possible interactions of the recommended drugs and substances with food, beverages, or supplements. Conclusion: The majority of the pharmaceutical establishments included in the study promoted inadequate self-medication for COVID-19 in Colombia during the pandemic.

Clinical characteristics and mortality associated with COVID-19 at high altitude: a cohort of 5161 patients in Bogotá, Colombia.

BACKGROUND: There are few data on the clinical outcomes of patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in cities over 1000 m above sea level (masl). OBJECTIVES: To describe the clinical characteristics and mortality of patients with COVID-19 treated at a high complexity hospital in Bogotá, Colombia, at 2640 masl. METHODS: This was an observational study of a cohort including 5161 patients with confirmed COVID-19 infection from 19 March 2020 to 30 April 2021. Demographic data, laboratory values, comorbidities, oxygenation indices, and clinical outcomes were collected. Data were compared between survivors and nonsurvivors. An independent predictive model was performed for mortality and invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) using classification and regression trees (CART). RESULTS: The median cohort age was 66 years (interquartile range (IQR) 53-77), with 1305 patients dying (25%) and 3856 surviving (75%). The intensive care unit (ICU) received 1223 patients (24%). Of 898 patients who received IMV, 613 (68%) of them perished. The ratio of partial pressure arterial oxygen (PaO2) to fraction inspired oxygen (FiO2), or the P/F ratio, upon ICU admission was 105 (IQR 77-146) and 137 (IQR 91-199) in the deceased and survivors, respectively. The CART model showed that the need for IMV, age greater than 79 years, ratio of oxygen saturation (SaO2) to FiO2, or the S/F ratio, less than 259, and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) greater than 617 U/L at admission were associated with a greater probability of death. CONCLUSION: Among more than 5000 patients with COVID-19 treated in our hospital, mortality at hospital discharge was 25%. Older age, low S/F ratio, and high LDH at admission were predictors of mortality.

A Pharmacogenetic Study of CYP2C19 in Acute Coronary Syndrome Patients of Colombian Origin Reveals New Polymorphisms Potentially Related to Clopidogrel Therapy.

Clopidogrel, an oral platelet P2Y12 receptor blocker, is used in the treatment of acute coronary syndrome. Interindividual variability in treatment response and the occurrence of adverse effects has been attributed to genetic variants in CYP2C19. The analysis of relevant pharmacogenes in ethnically heterogeneous and poorly studied populations contributes to the implementation of personalized medicine. We analyzed the coding and regulatory regions of CYP2C19 in 166 patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) treated with clopidogrel. The allele frequencies of CYP2C19 alleles *1, *2, *4, *17, *27 and *33 alleles were 86.1%, 7.2%, 0.3%, 10.2%, 0.3% and 0.3%, respectively. A new potentially pathogenic mutation (p.L15H) and five intronic variants with potential splicing effects were detected. In 14.4% of the patients, a new haplotype in strong linkage disequilibrium was identified. The clinical outcome indicated that 13.5% of the patients presented adverse drugs reactions with a predominance of bleeding while 25% of these patients were carriers of at least one polymorphic allele. We propose that new regulatory single-nucleotide variants (SNVs) might potentially influence the response to clopidogrel in Colombian individuals.

Resistencia a múltiples antibióticos en serovariedades de Salmonella aisladas de muestras clínicas y alimentos / Resistance to multiple antibiotics in serovarities of Salmonella isolated from clinical samples and foods

Salmonella enterica es un patógeno transmitido por alimentos y agente etiológico de brotes alimentarios de gran impacto en la salud humana. El aumento de la resistencia bacteriana constituye una amenaza a la salud pública, la aparición de cepas de Salmonella con resistencia a múltiples antimicrobianos (MDR) fue descrita en humanos, alimentos y animales para consumo; por ello se considera muy importante conocer la situación epidemiológica local. El objetivo de este trabajo fue generar información sobre los serotipos circulantes, resistencia a los antibióticos y presencia de resistencia simultánea a múltiples fármacos en Salmonella provenientes de muestras clínicas humanas y muestras de alimentos en el periodo desde 2017 a 2019. Fueron analizadas un total de 668 cepas de Salmonella aisladas en los años 2017, 2018 y 2019 a partir de muestras clínicas humanas y de alimentos, en el Laboratorio Central de Salud Pública y/o remitidas por Laboratorios de la Red de Enteropatógenos. Se observaron serotipos muy diversos con prevalencia del serovar Heidelberg en alimentos y Typhimurium en muestras de humanos. Se encontró que el 45,4% de las cepas fueron sensibles a todos los antibióticos (ATB), el 35,6% fueron resistentes de 1 a 6 ATB y el 19% con sensibilidad intermedia; observándose mayor resistencia a Tetraciclina, Ác. Nalidíxico, Ampicilina y Nitrofurantoína, en menor grado se evidenció resistencia a cefalosporinas (C3ªG) y a ciprofloxacina. El 16.9% de las cepas presentaron resistencia múltiple (3 o más antibióticos) con 37 fenotipos distintos. Las serovariedades que presentaron mayor resistencia a los antimicrobianos fueron Heidelberg, Schwarzengrund y Typhimurium

Salmonella enterica is a foodborne pathogen and etiological agent of food outbreaks with a great impact on human health. The increase in bacterial resistance constitutes a threat to public health. The appearance of Salmonella strains with resistance to multiple antimicrobials (MDR) has already been described in humans, food and animals for consumption; for this reason, it is considered very important to know the local epidemiological situation. The target of this work was to generate information on circulating serotypes, antibiotic resistance and the presence of simultaneous resistance to multiple drugs in Salmonella from human clinical samples and food samples in the period from 2017 to 2019. A total of 668 Salmonella strains isolated in the years 2017, 2018 and 2019 were analyzed from human and food clinical samples, at the Central Public Health Laboratory and / or sent by Laboratories of the Enteropathogens Network. Very diverse serotypes were observed with prevalence of Heidelberg serovar in food and Typhimurium in human samples .It was found that 45,4% of the strains were sensitive to all antibiotics (ATB), 35,6% were resistant from 1 to 6 ATB and 19% with intermediate sensitivity; observing greater resistance to Tetracycline, Ác. Nalidixic, Ampicillin and Nitrofurantoin, to a lesser degree resistance to cephalosporins (C3ªG) and ciprofloxacin was evidenced. The 16.9% the strains presented multiple resistance (3 or more antibiotics) with 37 different phenotypes. The serovars with the highest antimicrobial resistance were Heidelberg, Schwarzengrund and Typhimurium

Pulmonary Arteriography in Pulmonary Vein Stenosis.

A 43-year-old woman underwent radiofrequency pulmonary vein ablation for symptomatic paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. At 3 months, she developed worsening dyspnea and exercise intolerance; tests revealed severe stenosis in her right pulmonary veins at the venoatrial junction and an abnormally small left atrium.

Detección de Clostridioides difficile toxigénico a partir de muestras diarreicas por reacción en cadena de la polimerasa, en pacientes hospitalizados en Paraguay. Periodo 2016-2018 / Detection of toxigenic Clostridioides difficile from diarrheic samples by polymerase chain reaction in hospitalized patients in Paraguay. Period 2016-2018

La infección por Clostridioides difficile (ICD) se considera la principal enfermedad diarreica asociada a pacientes internados en instituciones de salud, generalmente mayores de 61 años y al uso de antimicrobianos de espectro extendido. Es un bacilo grampositivo anaerobio estricto, esporulado. La alteración de la microbiota colónica por el tratamiento antimicrobiano permite la colonización e infección por este microorganismo, cuya manifestación clínica, se basa en la presentación de cuadro diarreico. El objetivo de este estudio fue detectar C. difficile toxigénico a partir de muestras diarreicas por reacción en cadena de la polimerasa en pacientes hospitalizados. Estudio descriptivo de corte transverso, prospectivo que utilizó como un instrumento de medición una ficha epidemiológica conteniendo las variables de estudio y consentimiento informado. En 901 muestras diarreicas, se detectaron las toxinas tcdA, tcdB, ctdA, ctdB y tcdC y del gen de especie. La prevalencia de C. difficile toxigénico fue de 19,7% (n=178) de las muestras que dieron positivas para una o ambas toxinas (toxinas A y B); el 98% presentó ambas toxinas. Se observó mayor presentación de ICD en pacientes con una mediana de 68 años, y en el sexo masculino en un 52%. Se evaluó el tratamiento antimicrobiano y el uso de los antimicrobianos, donde, el uso de clindamicina, cefalosporinas, fluoroquinolonas y vancomicina, presentó valores estadísticamente significativos. Los resultados obtenidos permitieron caracterizar epidemiológicamente la infección por este patógeno. Es de gran importancia realizar en forma temprana el diagnóstico y diseñar e implementar estrategias para evitar la emergencia de este patógeno

Clostridioides difficile infection is considered the main diarrheal disease associated with patients hospitalized in health institutions, older than 61 years and the use of extended spectrum antimicrobials. It is a strict anaerobic, sporulated gram-positive bacillus. The alteration of the colonic microbiota by antimicrobial treatment allows colonization and infection by this microorganism, whose clinical manifestation is based on the presentation of the diarrheal syndrome. The objective of this study was to detect toxigenic C. difficile from diarrheal samples by polymerase chain reaction in hospitalized patients. This was a descriptive, cross-sectional, prospective study in which an epidemiological record containing the study variables and informed consent were used. In 901 diarrheal samples, tcdA, tcdB, ctdA, ctdB and tcdC toxins and the species gene were detected. The prevalence of toxigenic C. difficile was 19.7% (n=178) of the samples, positives for one or both toxins (toxins A and B) while 98% presented both toxins. A higher frequency of ICD was observed in male patients (52%) who had a median age of 68 years. Antimicrobial treatment and use of antimicrobials were evaluated, where the use of clindamycin, cephalosporins, fluoroquinolones and vancomycin had statistically significant values. The results allowed infection by this pathogen to be epidemiologically characterized. It is very important to make early diagnosis and design and implement strategies to prevent the emergence of this pathogen

Prevalencia de patógenos causantes de enfermedad diarreica aguda en el área Metropolitana de Asunción y Central

Introducción: Las enfermedades diarreicas agudas (EDA) constituyen un problema de salud pública y son una de las causas más importantes de mortalidad y morbilidad en niños a nivel mundial. Objetivo: Determinar la prevalencia de enteropatógenos causantes de EDA en el área metropolitana de Asunción y Central. Materiales y métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional, descriptivo de corte transverso. Se analizaron 743 muestras de heces diarreicas, en las cuales se investigó la presencia de Salmonella spp., Shigella spp., Campylobacter spp., Escherichia coli diarreigénicas y Rotavirus, utilizando técnicas de referencia. Resultados: En el 31,2% (232/743) de las muestras fue posible identificar al menos uno de los patógenos entéricos investigados, siendo las E. coli diarreigénicas fueron las bacterias identificadas con mayor frecuencia, seguido por Rotavirus, Campylobacter spp., Shigella spp. y en último lugar, Salmonella spp. Conclusión: La población más afectada corresponde a niños menores de 5 años. El principal patógeno identificado como agente causal de diarreas fueron las E. coli diarreigénicas en primer lugar, seguido por Rotavirus, Campylobacter spp., Shigella spp. y Salmonella spp. En algunas muestras se detectaron más de un patógeno entérico, encontrando incluso casos de coinfección con hasta cuatro patógenos diferentes.

Introduction: Acute diarrheal diseases (ADD) constitute a public health problem and are one of the most important causes of mortality and morbidity in children worldwide. Objective: To determine the prevalence of enteropathogens causing ADD in the metropolitan area of ​​Asunción and Central. Materials and methods: An observational, descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted. 743 samples of diarrheic feces were analyzed, in which the presence of Salmonella spp., Shigella spp., Campylobacter spp., Escherichia coli diarreigenic and Rotavirus was investigated, using reference techniques. Results: In 31.2% (232/743) of the samples it was possible to identify at least one of the enteric pathogens investigated, being the diarrhenetic E. coli were the most frequently identified bacteria, followed by Rotavirus, Campylobacter spp., Shigella spp. and lastly, Salmonella spp. Conclusion: The most affected population corresponds to children under 5 years of age. The main pathogen identified as the causative agent of diarrhea was diarrigenic E. coli, followed by Rotavirus, Campylobacter spp., Shigella spp. and Salmonella spp. In some samples more than one enteric pathogen was detected, even finding cases of coinfection with up to four different pathogens.

Copy number variation profiling in pharmacogenetics CYP-450 and GST genes in Colombian population.

BACKGROUND: Copy Number variation (CNVs) in genes related to drug absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion (ADME) are relevant in the interindividual variability of drug response. Studies of the CNVs in ADME genes in Latin America population are lacking. The objective of the study was to identify the genetic variability of CNVs in CYP-450 and GST genes in a subgroup of individuals of Colombian origin. METHODS: Genomic DNA was isolated from 123 healthy individuals from a Colombian population. Multiplex Ligation-Dependent Probe Amplification (MLPA) was performed for the identification of CNVs in 40 genomic regions of 11 CYP-450 and 3 GST genes. The genetic variability, allelic and genotypic frequencies were analyzed. RESULTS: We found that 13 out of 14 genes had CNVs: 5 (35.7%) exhibited deletions and duplications, while 8 (57.1%) presented either deletions or duplications.. 33.3% of individuals carried deletions and duplications while 49.6% had a unique type of CNV (deletion or duplication). The allelic frequencies of the CYP and GST genes were 0 to 47.6% (allele null), 0 to 17.5% (duplicated alleles) and 37 to 100% (normal alleles). CONCLUSIONS: Our results describe, for the first time, the genomic profile of CNVs in a subgroup of Colombian population in GST and CYP-450 genes. GST genes indicated greater genetic variability than CYP-450 genes. The data obtained contributes to the knowledge of genetic profiles in Latin American subgroups. Although the clinical relevance of CNVs has not been fully established, it is a valuable source of pharmacogenetic variability data with potential involvement in the response to medications.

Perceptions about sexual risk, HIV and HIV-testing in Cali, Colombia.

INTRODUCTION: In Colombia, 20%-54% of the population with sexual practices at higher risk for HIV infection (men who have sex with men, transgender women, women sex workers) has sometime been tested. OBJECTIVE: To describe perceptions of sexual risk, HIV and HIV testing in people with risky sexual practices and people who identify themselves as heterosexual. METHODS: Between 2012 and 2014, it was carried a descriptive study using HIV screening out in Cali-Colombia with the voluntary participation of 940 people aged over 18 years. There were used: informed consent, structured questionnaire and HIV testing. Descriptive, bivariate and multivariate Poisson regression models were performed. RESULTS: Average age 28.5 ±10.9 years; 50% men. 357 (38%) were people from the traditional risk group for HIV infection; and 583 (62%) corresponded to the non-traditional risk group (heterosexual men and women). Likewise, 62% and 41% respectively had HIV test. 51% to 53% reported having sex when they consumed liquor; commercial sex was higher in the group with risky sexual practices (32% vs 3%), as well as anal relations (77% vs 23%), consistent use of condom (32% vs 9%), and HIV positive test (14.3% vs 1.6%). The multivariate analysis showed for both groups that having HIV test was associated with being older than 25 years and a history of sexually transmitted infection. CONCLUSIONS: Differentiated education strategies are needed based on risky sexual behaviors and that consider the importance of regular HIV tests for early diagnosis and timely enrollment in care and treatment.

INTRODUCCIÓN: En Colombia, 20%-54% de la población con prácticas sexuales de mayor riesgo para infección por VIH (Hombres que tienen sexo con hombres, mujeres transgénero, mujeres trabajadoras sexuales) se ha hecho la prueba alguna vez. OBJETIVO: Describir las percepciones sobre riesgo sexual, VIH y prueba del VIH, en personas con prácticas sexuales de riesgo y personas que se identifican heterosexuales. MÉTODOS: Entre 2012 y 2014 se hizo en Cali-Colombia un estudio descriptivo mediante tamizaje para VIH con participación voluntaria de 940 personas mayores de 18 años. Fueron utilizados: consentimiento informado, cuestionario estructurado y prueba VIH. Se realizaron análisis descriptivos, bivariado y modelo de regresión multivariada Poisson. RESULTADOS: Edad promedio 28.5 ±10.9 años, 50% hombres. 357(38%) eran personas de grupos tradicionales de riesgo para infección VIH y 583(62%) correspondían a grupo no tradicional de riesgo (hombres y mujeres heterosexuales). Así mismo, 62% y 41% respectivamente, tenían prueba de VIH. Reportaron tener relaciones sexuales cuando consumieron licor 51% a 53%; sexo comercial fue mayor en grupo con prácticas sexuales de riesgo (32% vs 3%), igual que relaciones anales (77% vs 23%), uso consistente de condón (32% vs 9%) y prueba VIH positiva (14.3% vs 1.6%). El análisis multivariado mostro para ambos grupos, que tener prueba de VIH se asoció con ser mayor de 25 años y antecedente de infección de transmisión sexual. CONCLUSIONES: Se necesitan estrategias de educación diferenciadas según comportamientos sexuales de riesgo y que consideren la importancia de las pruebas regulares del VIH para el diagnóstico temprano e inscripción oportuna en la atención y tratamiento.

Características de personas que retornan voluntariamente a repetirse la prueba de VIH, 2012-2015 / Characteristics of people who voluntarily repeat the HIV test, 2012-2015

RESUMEN Objetivo Comparar características de personas con prácticas sexuales de riesgo que acudieron a campañas voluntarias de toma de una primera prueba de Virus de la Inmunodeficiencia Humana (VIH) y el retorno voluntario a repetirse la prueba en meses posteriores. Método Entre 2012 y 2015 en Cali, participaron voluntariamente 82 personas mayores de 18 años. Se implementó un cuestionario estructurado para evaluar características sociodemográficas, conocimientos y comportamientos relacionados con VIH. Se hicieron análisis descriptivos y de comparación de muestras relacionadas. Resultados Edad promedio de participantes 26,9±8,6 años. El 100% eran hombres con orientación sexual homosexual. La mayoría con baja escolaridad e ingresos. Cerca de la mitad reportó consumo riesgoso de alcohol y sustancias psicoactivas. La mayoría tenía bajo conocimiento sobre la transmisión del VIH y bajo uso de condón con pareja estable. La comparación entre el momento de la primera prueba de VIH y la repetición posterior no evidenció cambios significativos en conocimientos y comportamientos, únicamente se observó menor reporte del consumo de sustancias (p=0,0209) y aumento de realización de tatuajes/piercing (p=0,0455). Resultado reactivo en la repetición de la prueba fue 4,9% (I.C95% 0,1%-9,6%). Conclusión Los resultados sugieren que el retorno voluntario a repetirse la prueba del VIH en este grupo de personas que comparten prácticas de riesgo para la infección por VIH no evidencia cambios en los conocimientos o comportamientos.(AU)

ABSTRACT Objective To compare the characteristics of people with risky sexual behavior who participated in campaigns directed to take the first HIV test and voluntarily returned to retake the test afterwards. Materials and Methods In Cali Colombia, between 2012 and 2015, 82 people over the age of 18 participated voluntarily in this campaign. A structured questionnaire was applied to assess sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge and behaviors related to HIV. Descriptive and comparative analyses of related samples were performed. Results The average age of the participants was 26.9±8.6 years. 100% were homosexual men, mostly with low educational attainment and income. Nearly half of the sample reported risky use of alcohol and psychoactive substances. Most of them had little knowledge about HIV transmission and a low rate of condom use with a stable partner. The comparison between the moment when the first HIV test was taken and the repetition did not show significant changes regarding knowledge and behaviors, only a lower report of substance use (p=0.0209) and an increase in the practice of tattoos/piercings (p=0.0455). The reactive result of the second test was 4.9% (95%CI: 0.1%-9.6%). Conclusion The results suggest that the voluntary return to retake the HIV test in this group of people who share risk practices for HIV infection does not show changes in knowledge or behavior.(AU)

Perfiles genéticos bacterianos y análisis de brotes de las Enfermedades Transmitidas por Alimentos empleando Electroforesis de Campo Pulsado como herramienta para la vigilancia epidemiológica molecular / Bacterial genetic profiles and analysis of outbreaks of foodborne diseases using pulsed field gel electrophoresis as a tool for molecular epidemiological surveillance

Las Enfermedades de Transmisión Alimentaria (ETA) son un problema de salud pública con altos índices de morbilidad y mortalidad a nivel global. La vigilancia y estudio de brotes de las ETA a través de Electroforesis de Campo Pulsado (PFGE) constituye un soporte fundamental para la investigación epidemiológica. El objetivo del estudio es presentar la base de datos de perfiles genéticos bacterianos y analizar brotes de enfermedades transmitidas por alimentos empleando Electroforesis de Campo Pulsado. Estudio descriptivo observacional de carácter retrospectivo, muestreo por conveniencia en el que fueron estudiados 778 aislamientos bacterianos causantes de ETA. La Base de Datos Nacional (BDN) quedó conformada por los siguientes patógenos entéricos; Salmonella spp., Shigella sonnei, Vibrio cholerae, Campylobacter spp., Escherichia coli O157:H7 y Escherichia coli no O157 caracterizados por una diversidad de patrones únicos, clusters y brotes. La BDN de Salmonella spp., quedó representada por un total de 558 cepas con 248 PUN, de las cuales 22,6% (126 cepas) corresponden a Salmonella enterica ser. Typhimurium, 20,6% (115 cepas) a Salmonella enterica ser. Enteritidis, 9,1% (51 cepas) a Salmonella enterica ser. Newport, 1,6% (9 cepas) a Salmonella enterica ser. Muenchen, que al mismo tiempo son los serotipos que están asociados a brotes. Fueron confirmados un total de 13 brotes causados por Salmonella spp.; Shigella sonnei con 113 cepas estudiadas, 57 patrones únicos y 19 clusters detectados. Se identificaron 3 patrones PYJ16X01.0012, PYJ16X01.0034 y PYJ16X01.0014 como los predominantes. Vibrio cholerae con 18 cepas estudiadas, 9 patrones únicos y 4 clusters detectados. Se pudo establecer una relación genética del 100% entre cepas de Vibrio cholerae O1 biotipo El Tor serotipo Ogawa productora de toxinas ctxA y tcpA aislada del caso índice del brote de cólera. Campylobacter spp., con 62 cepas estudiadas, 42 patrones únicos y 10 clusters detectados. La BDN de E. coli productor de toxina shiga O157 y no O157, con 9 y 20 cepas de origen humano respectivamente, caracterizadas según sus factores de virulencia y subtipos. Se reconocieron 8 patrones electroforéticos PUN y 1 cluster para E. coli productor de toxina shiga O157, y 18 PUN y 1 clúster para E. coli productor de toxina shiga no O157.La disponibilidad de una Base de Datos Nacional de patógenos bacterianos transmitidos por alimentos constituye un importante avance para la salud pública, con un gran aporte en la vigilancia y epidemiología del país permitiendo la confirmación y detección de brotes discriminando aislamientos relacionados genéticamente y por consiguiente el estudio de relaciones clonales y probable origen(AU)

Foodborne diseases (FBD) are a problem of public health with high indexes of morbidity and mortality at global level. The surveillance and study of outbreaks of the FBD through pulsed field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) is a fundamental support for epidemiological research. The aim of the study is to present the database of bacterial genetic profiles and analyze outbreaks of FBD using PFGE. This was an observational descriptive retrospective study with convenience sampling in which 778 bacterial isolates causing FBD were studied. The National Database (NDB) was made up of the following enteric pathogens causing FBD: Salmonella spp., Shigella sonnei, Vibrio cholerae, Campylobacter spp., Escherichia coli O157: H7 and Escherichia coli no O157. Each of them was characterized by a diversity of unique patterns, clusters and outbreaks. The NDB of Salmonella spp. was represented by a total of 558 strains with 248 PUN, of which 22.6% (126 strains) correspond to Salmonella enterica ser. Typhimurium, 20.6% (115 strains) to Salmonella enterica ser. Enteritidis, 9.1% (51 strains) to Salmonella enterica ser. Newport, 1.6% (9 strains) to Salmonella enterica ser. Muenchen, which at the same time are the serotypes associated with outbreaks. A total of thirteen outbreaks caused by Salmonella spp., Shigella sonnei with 113 strains studied, 57 unique patterns and 19 clusters detected were confirmed. Three patterns PYJ16X01.0012, PYJ16X01.0034 and PYJ16X01.0014 were identified as the predominant. Vibrio cholerae with 18 strains studied, 9 unique patterns and 4 clusters were detected. A genetic relationship of 100% was established between strains of Vibrio cholerae O1 biotype El Tor serotype Ogawa toxin producer ctxA and tcpA isolated from the index case of the cholera outbreak. Campylobacter spp., with 62 strains studied, 42 unique patterns and 10 clusters were detected. The NDB of O157 and non-O157 Shiga toxin producing E. coli O157, with 9 and 20 strains of human origin respectively, were characterized according to their virulence factors and subtypes. We recognized 8 PUN electrophoretic patterns and 1 cluster for O157 Shiga toxin producing E. coli, and 18 PUN and 1 cluster for non-O157 Shiga toxin producing E. coli. The availability of a National Database of bacterial pathogens transmitted by food constitutes an important advance for public health, with a great contribution to the surveillance and epidemiology of the country allowing the confirmation and detection of outbreaks discriminating genetically related isolates and therefore, the study of clonal relationships and probable origin(AU)

Perceptions about sexual risk, HIV and HIV-testing in Cali, Colombia / Percepciones sobre riesgo sexual, VIH y prueba del VIH en Cali, Colombia

Abstract Introduction: In Colombia, 20%-54% of the population with sexual practices at higher risk for HIV infection (men who have sex with men, transgender women, women sex workers) has sometime been tested. Objective: To describe perceptions of sexual risk, HIV and HIV testing in people with risky sexual practices and people who identify themselves as heterosexual. Methods: Between 2012 and 2014, it was carried a descriptive study using HIV screening out in Cali-Colombia with the voluntary participation of 940 people aged over 18 years. There were used: informed consent, structured questionnaire and HIV testing. Descriptive, bivariate and multivariate Poisson regression models were performed. Results: Average age 28.5 ±10.9 years; 50% men. 357 (38%) were people from the traditional risk group for HIV infection; and 583 (62%) corresponded to the non-traditional risk group (heterosexual men and women). Likewise, 62% and 41% respectively had HIV test. 51% to 53% reported having sex when they consumed liquor; commercial sex was higher in the group with risky sexual practices (32% vs 3%), as well as anal relations (77% vs 23%), consistent use of condom (32% vs 9%), and HIV positive test (14.3% vs 1.6%). The multivariate analysis showed for both groups that having HIV test was associated with being older than 25 years and a history of sexually transmitted infection. Conclusions: Differentiated education strategies are needed based on risky sexual behaviors and that consider the importance of regular HIV tests for early diagnosis and timely enrollment in care and treatment.

Resumen Introducción: En Colombia, 20%-54% de la población con prácticas sexuales de mayor riesgo para infección por VIH (Hombres que tienen sexo con hombres, mujeres transgénero, mujeres trabajadoras sexuales) se ha hecho la prueba alguna vez. Objetivo: Describir las percepciones sobre riesgo sexual, VIH y prueba del VIH, en personas con prácticas sexuales de riesgo y personas que se identifican heterosexuales. Métodos: Entre 2012 y 2014 se hizo en Cali-Colombia un estudio descriptivo mediante tamizaje para VIH con participación voluntaria de 940 personas mayores de 18 años. Fueron utilizados: consentimiento informado, cuestionario estructurado y prueba VIH. Se realizaron análisis descriptivos, bivariado y modelo de regresión multivariada Poisson. Resultados: Edad promedio 28.5 ±10.9 años, 50% hombres. 357(38%) eran personas de grupos tradicionales de riesgo para infección VIH y 583(62%) correspondían a grupo no tradicional de riesgo (hombres y mujeres heterosexuales). Así mismo, 62% y 41% respectivamente, tenían prueba de VIH. Reportaron tener relaciones sexuales cuando consumieron licor 51% a 53%; sexo comercial fue mayor en grupo con prácticas sexuales de riesgo (32% vs 3%), igual que relaciones anales (77% vs 23%), uso consistente de condón (32% vs 9%) y prueba VIH positiva (14.3% vs 1.6%). El análisis multivariado mostro para ambos grupos, que tener prueba de VIH se asoció con ser mayor de 25 años y antecedente de infección de transmisión sexual. Conclusiones: Se necesitan estrategias de educación diferenciadas según comportamientos sexuales de riesgo y que consideren la importancia de las pruebas regulares del VIH para el diagnóstico temprano e inscripción oportuna en la atención y tratamiento.

[Characteristics of people who voluntarily repeat the HIV test, 2012-2015]. / Características de personas que retornan voluntariamente a repetirse la prueba de VIH, 2012-2015.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the characteristics of people with risky sexual behavior who participated in campaigns directed to take the first HIV test and voluntarily returned to retake the test afterwards. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In Cali Colombia, between 2012 and 2015, 82 people over the age of 18 participated voluntarily in this campaign. A structured questionnaire was applied to assess sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge and behaviors related to HIV. Descriptive and comparative analyses of related samples were performed. RESULTS: The average age of the participants was 26.9±8.6 years. 100% were homosexual men, mostly with low educational attainment and income. Nearly half of the sample reported risky use of alcohol and psychoactive substances. Most of them had little knowledge about HIV transmission and a low rate of condom use with a stable partner. The comparison between the moment when the first HIV test was taken and the repetition did not show significant changes regarding knowledge and behaviors, only a lower report of substance use (p=0.0209) and an increase in the practice of tattoos/piercings (p=0.0455). The reactive result of the second test was 4.9% (95%CI: 0.1%-9.6%). CONCLUSION: The results suggest that the voluntary return to retake the HIV test in this group of people who share risk practices for HIV infection does not show changes in knowledge or behavior.

OBJETIVO: Comparar características de personas con prácticas sexuales de riesgo que acudieron a campañas voluntarias de toma de una primera prueba de Virus de la Inmunodeficiencia Humana (VIH) y el retorno voluntario a repetirse la prueba en meses posteriores. MÉTODO: Entre 2012 y 2015 en Cali, participaron voluntariamente 82 personas mayores de 18 años. Se implementó un cuestionario estructurado para evaluar características sociodemográficas, conocimientos y comportamientos relacionados con VIH. Se hicieron análisis descriptivos y de comparación de muestras relacionadas. RESULTADOS: Edad promedio de participantes 26,9±8,6 años. El 100% eran hombres con orientación sexual homosexual. La mayoría con baja escolaridad e ingresos. Cerca de la mitad reportó consumo riesgoso de alcohol y sustancias psicoactivas. La mayoría tenía bajo conocimiento sobre la transmisión del VIH y bajo uso de condón con pareja estable. La comparación entre el momento de la primera prueba de VIH y la repetición posterior no evidenció cambios significativos en conocimientos y comportamientos, únicamente se observó menor reporte del consumo de sustancias (p=0,0209) y aumento de realización de tatuajes/piercing (p=0,0455). Resultado reactivo en la repetición de la prueba fue 4,9% (I.C95% 0,1%-9,6%). CONCLUSIÓN: Los resultados sugieren que el retorno voluntario a repetirse la prueba del VIH en este grupo de personas que comparten prácticas de riesgo para la infección por VIH no evidencia cambios en los conocimientos o comportamientos.

Primeros resultados de la vigilancia integrada de la resistencia antimicrobiana de patógenos transmitidos por alimentos, campylobacter spp y salmonella spp en tres poblaciones distintas. Paraguay. 2011-2012 / First results of the comprehensive surveillance of the antimicrobial resistance of foodborne pathogens, campylobacter spp and salmonella spp in three different populations. Paraguay, 2011-2012

La infección causada por Salmonella spp. y por Campylobacter spp. son las enfermedades transmitidas por alimentos (ETA) reportadas más frecuentemente en el mundo, siendo la carne de pollo uno de los vehículos alimentarios más importantes para ambas. Se presenta los primeros resultados de la vigilancia antimicrobiana integrada de las ETA de Salmonella spp. y Campylobacter spp. en tres poblaciones. En este estudio descriptivo de corte transverso, de casos consecutivos, se recolectaron muestras de diversos orígenes de carne de pollo y distintas poblaciones para su aislamiento, caracterización y perfil de resistencia. Se observó una prevalencia de Campylobacter spp. del 13% en alimentos, 20% en muestras clínicas y 55% en heces cloacales de aves, con alta prevalencia de Campylobacter jejuni en las tres poblaciones; de Salmonella spp fue 6% en alimentos, 13% en muestras clínicas y 3% en heces cloacales de aves, con predominio del serotipo Salmonella ser. Enteritidis en las muestras clínicas y heces cloacales de aves. La resistencia a ciprofloxacina de Campylobacter spp., entre 59-81% se destacó en las tres poblaciones estudiadas. Para Salmonella spp. se observó una resistencia a nitrofurantoina del 73% en heces cloacales de aves, 55% en alimentos y 19,4% en humanos; a tetraciclina, 42% en alimentos, 5% en muestras clínicas y 9% en heces cloacales; para el ácido nalidíxico la resistencia fue del 72% en animales y 53% en muestras clínicas. Es importante fortalecer la vigilancia integrada de la resistencia antimicrobiana en estas tres poblaciones de manera a detectar en forma oportuna mecanismos de resistencia que pudieran afectar al ser humano a través de la cadena alimentaria.

Infection caused by Salmonella ssp. and Campylobacter spp. are the foodborne diseasesreported most frequently throughout the world, and chicken meat is considered one of themost important food vehicles for both. The objective was to present the first resultsobtained from the integrated antimicrobial surveillance of foodborne diseases of Salmonellaspp. and Campylobacter spp in three populations. In this descriptive cross - sectional ofconsecutive sampling, samples were collected from different sources of chicken meat and different populations for isolation, characterization and resistance profile. A prevalence of13% in food, 20% in clinical samples and 55% in cloacal feces was observed in the isolationof Campylobacter spp. with high prevalence of Campylobacter jejuni in all three populationsfollowed by 6% in food, 13% in clinical samples and 3% in birds cloacal feces of Salmonellaspp. with predominance in the isolation of the serotype Salmonella ser. Enteritidis in clinicalsample populations and birds cloacal feces. The resistance of Campylobacter spp. tociprofloxacin of 59-81%, stood out in the three populations under study, in contrast toSalmonella spp. A high resistance to nitrofurantoin of 73% was observed in poultry feces,55% in foods and 19.4% in humans. Resistance to tetracycline was found in foods (42%),5% in clinical samples and 9% in cloacal feces. A resistance of 72% was observed inanimals and 53% in clinical samples for nalidixic acid. It is important to strengthen theintegrated surveillance of antimicrobial resistance in these three populations in order totimely detect mechanisms of resistance that can affect the human being through the foodchain.