Entomological indicators and food sources of triatomines in the Brazilian semi-arid region.

BACKGROUND: Triatomines are biological vectors of Trypanosoma cruzi, the etiological agent of Chagas Disease (CD) and have various mammalian hosts. This study evaluated the entomological indicators and food sources of triatomines in Petrolina in the semi-arid region of Brazil, where CD is endemic. METHODS: Triatomines were captured indoors and outdoors through an active search and entomological indices (household and natural infections) were calculated. Parasitological analyses were performed through microscopic visualization using Giemsa-stained insect feces, and DNA sequencing was employed to identify food sources from the gut contents of 82 insects (9.05%) that were better preserved. RESULTS: We captured triatomines (906) in peridomicile (807) and intradomicile (99): Triatoma brasiliensis (84.7%, 767 specimens), Triatoma spp. (8.2%, 74 specimens), T. pseudomaculata (6.5%, 59 specimens), Rhodnius spp. (0.4%, four specimens), R. nasutus (0.1%, one specimen), and T. sordida (0.1%, one specimen). The household infestation index is 11.8%. Thirty-five triatomines were infected (33 T. brasiliensis and two T. pseudomaculata), corresponding to a natural infection index of 3.8%. The identified food sources were human T. pseudomaculata and T. brasiliensis, dogs for T. brasiliensis and rodents (Mus musculus) for T. brasiliensis. CONCLUSIONS: The results reinforce the need to intensify CD diagnosis, surveillance, and control actions, as an increase in entomological indices was recorded. Blood from humans and domestic and synanthropic animals was detected in the infected triatomines, suggesting a risk of CD vector transmission in Petrolina. As CD is a zoonosis, multidisciplinary and intersectoral CD surveillance must be conducted in the context of the One Health.

Spatial analysis of the natural infection index for Triatomines and the risk of Chagas disease transmission in Northeastern Brazil.

This study aimed to analyze the spatial pattern of natural infection index (NII) for triatomines and the risk of Chagas disease transmission in an endemic area of Northeastern Brazil. An ecological study was conducted, based on 184 municipalities in five mesoregions. The NII for triatomines was evaluated in the Pernambuco State, Brazil, from 2016 to 2018. Spatial autocorrelations were evaluated using Global Moran Index (I) and Local Moran Index (II) and were considered positive when I > 0 and p < 0.05, respectively. In total, 7,302 triatomines belonging to seven different species were detected. Triatoma brasiliensis had the highest frequency (53%; n = 3,844), followed by Triatoma pseudomaculata (25%; n = 1,828) and Panstrongylus lutzi (18.5%; n=1,366). The overall NII was 12%, and the higher NII values were P. lutzi (21%) and Panstrongylus megistus (18%). In the mesoregions of Zona da Mata, Agreste, Sertao, and Sertao do Sao Francisco, 93% of triatomines were detected indoors. The global spatial autocorrelation of I to NII was positive (0.2; p = 0.01), and II values calculated using BoxMap, MoranMap, Lisa Cluster Map were statistically significant for natural infections. With regard to the risk areas for the presence of triatomines, Zone 2 (the Agreste and Sertao regions) presented a relative risk of 3.65 compared to other areas in the state. Our study shows the potential areas of vector transmission of Chagas disease. In this study, the application of different methods of spatial analysis made it possible to locate these areas, which would not have been identified by only applying epidemiological indicators.

Diagnostic Potential for the Detection of Canine Visceral Leishmaniasis of an ELISA Assay Based on the Q5 Recombinant Protein: A Large-Scale and Comparative Evaluation Using Canine Sera with a Positive Diagnosis from the Dual-Path-Platform (DPP) Test.

Dogs are considered the major domestic reservoir for human visceral leishmaniasis, a serious disease caused by the Leishmania infantum parasite. Diagnosis of canine visceral leishmaniasis (CVL) is critical for disease control, with several methods currently available. Among the serological tests, the DPP rapid test and the EIE-LVC, more commonly used in Brazil, are associated with variable sensitivity and specificity. Research with novel recombinant proteins such as the ELISA with the recombinant chimeric protein Q5 may therefore improve the CVL diagnosis. This study aimed to evaluate the true diagnostic potential of Q5 in an ELISA assay using a large number of CVL-suspected sera (406) with a previous positive diagnosis based on the rapid DPP test. Sera from the DPP-positive dogs, also assessed with the EIE-LVC test, were compared with sera from healthy dogs (n = 46) and used for ELISA tests using the recombinant Q5. The resulting data as well as the correlation with the clinical signs and the environmental characteristics of the animals were analyzed using Medal and GraphPad Prism 8.0. Overall, similar levels of lower sensitivity (67-68%) were seen for both the commercial EIE-LVC test and the Q5 ELISA when all assessed sera were considered, but a much greater sensitivity (92%) was seen for those samples from symptomatic dogs only. In contrast, many negative results were observed for the DPP-positive sera from asymptomatic dogs or those with no clinical information available. A selection of those sera were tested yet again in new ELISA assays using a second batch of the recombinant Q5, purified under milder denaturing conditions, as well as using another recombinant protein (Lci13). The results reveal a higher-than-expected incidence of likely false-positive results for DPP, reinforcing the need for other recombinant proteins, such as the chimeric Q5, to be investigated as possible alternatives to the currently used CVL diagnostic methods.

External quality assessment of entomological identification of triatomines carried out in the Pernambuco Public Health Laboratory network, Brazil, 2017. / Avaliação externa da qualidade da identificação entomológica de triatomíneos realizada na Rede de Laboratórios Públicos em Pernambuco, 2017.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the quality of triatomine identification in the laboratory network of the state of Pernambuco, Brazil. METHODS: The participating laboratories received support material with dichotomous keys and a panel made up of seven triatomine insects known in the Pernambuco, in order to identify specimen status on receipt (intact or damaged structure), as well as species and sex. RESULTS: Nine out of 12 laboratories took part of the study. The proportion of correct answers was 56/63 for sex identification, and 45/63, for species. The answers did not present a direct relationship with occurrence of damage to morphological structures during insect transportation. Panstrongylus megistus identification was correct for all specimens (9/9 laboratories), while correct identification of species of the Rhodnius genus was the lowest (3/9 laboratories). CONCLUSION: Despite the good performance in entomological identification, the weaknesses observed may guide improvements in the laboratory network and will be essential for Chagas disease vector control programs.

Epidemiological situation and control of schistosomiasis in Pernambuco, Brazil: a descriptive study, 2010-2016. / Situação epidemiológica e controle da esquistossomose em Pernambuco: estudo descritivo, 2010-2016.

OBJECTIVE: to describe schistosomiasis control actions and its epidemiological situation in Pernambuco, Brazil, 2010-2016. METHODS: this was a descriptive study using data from the Schistosomiasis Surveillance and Control Program Information System for 116 municipalities, including indicators related to control actions (population surveyed, tests performed, treatment coverage) and epidemiological actions (positivity, parasite load, other helminthiases). RESULTS: Health Regions II, III, IV, V and XII, which are traditionally endemic, registered higher average percentages for control actions (population surveyed [6.5%, 6.0%, 2.0%, 12.0%, and 13.0%], tests performed [75.0%, 75.5%, 74.0%, 74.0%, and 68.5%], and treatment coverage [71.0%, 82.5%, 82.0%, 91.0%, and 73.0%], respectively), and higher average percentages for epidemiological variables (positivity [3.5%, 8.0%, 1.0%, 2.0%, and 6.5%], high parasite load [0.1%, 0.7%, 0.02%, 0.03%, and 0.5%], and other helminthiases [4.0%, 11.0%, 4.0%, 6.0%, and 8.0%], respectively). CONCLUSION: control actions need to be expanded in traditionally endemic regions.

Quality of life related to health for heart failure patients.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the quality of life related to health for heart failure patients and to relate sociodemographic and clinical data. METHOD: It is an observational and transversal study, with quantitative approach, carried out in a heart failure ambulatory in the state of Pernambuco. RESULTS: In the sample (n=101), there was prevalence of men older than 60 years old, married and professionally inactive. The quality of life related to health, based on the Minnesota Living With Heart Failure Questionnaire, was considered moderate (34.3±21.6), being significantly related to age (p=0.004), functional class (p<0.001), and patients with chagasic cardiopathy (p=0.02). CONCLUSION: The quality of life in the HF group of chagasic etiology was more compromised, specially in the emotional dimension. It is suggested that studies on the hypothesis that longer ambulatory follow-up improves quality of life and that having Chagas disease interferes negatively with the quality of life of heart failure patients.

Entomological indicators and food sources of triatomines in the Brazilian semi-arid region

ABSTRACT Background: Triatomines are biological vectors of Trypanosoma cruzi, the etiological agent of Chagas Disease (CD) and have various mammalian hosts. This study evaluated the entomological indicators and food sources of triatomines in Petrolina in the semi-arid region of Brazil, where CD is endemic. Methods: Triatomines were captured indoors and outdoors through an active search and entomological indices (household and natural infections) were calculated. Parasitological analyses were performed through microscopic visualization using Giemsa-stained insect feces, and DNA sequencing was employed to identify food sources from the gut contents of 82 insects (9.05%) that were better preserved. Results: We captured triatomines (906) in peridomicile (807) and intradomicile (99): Triatoma brasiliensis (84.7%, 767 specimens), Triatoma spp. (8.2%, 74 specimens), T. pseudomaculata (6.5%, 59 specimens), Rhodnius spp. (0.4%, four specimens), R. nasutus (0.1%, one specimen), and T. sordida (0.1%, one specimen). The household infestation index is 11.8%. Thirty-five triatomines were infected (33 T. brasiliensis and two T. pseudomaculata), corresponding to a natural infection index of 3.8%. The identified food sources were human T. pseudomaculata and T. brasiliensis, dogs for T. brasiliensis and rodents (Mus musculus) for T. brasiliensis. Conclusions: The results reinforce the need to intensify CD diagnosis, surveillance, and control actions, as an increase in entomological indices was recorded. Blood from humans and domestic and synanthropic animals was detected in the infected triatomines, suggesting a risk of CD vector transmission in Petrolina. As CD is a zoonosis, multidisciplinary and intersectoral CD surveillance must be conducted in the context of the One Health.

Spatial analysis of the natural infection index for Triatomines and the risk of Chagas disease transmission in Northeastern Brazil

ABSTRACT This study aimed to analyze the spatial pattern of natural infection index (NII) for triatomines and the risk of Chagas disease transmission in an endemic area of Northeastern Brazil. An ecological study was conducted, based on 184 municipalities in five mesoregions. The NII for triatomines was evaluated in the Pernambuco State, Brazil, from 2016 to 2018. Spatial autocorrelations were evaluated using Global Moran Index (I) and Local Moran Index (II) and were considered positive when I > 0 and p < 0.05, respectively. In total, 7,302 triatomines belonging to seven different species were detected. Triatoma brasiliensis had the highest frequency (53%; n = 3,844), followed by Triatoma pseudomaculata (25%; n = 1,828) and Panstrongylus lutzi (18.5%; n=1,366). The overall NII was 12%, and the higher NII values were P. lutzi (21%) and Panstrongylus megistus (18%). In the mesoregions of Zona da Mata, Agreste, Sertao, and Sertao do Sao Francisco, 93% of triatomines were detected indoors. The global spatial autocorrelation of I to NII was positive (0.2; p = 0.01), and II values calculated using BoxMap, MoranMap, Lisa Cluster Map were statistically significant for natural infections. With regard to the risk areas for the presence of triatomines, Zone 2 (the Agreste and Sertao regions) presented a relative risk of 3.65 compared to other areas in the state. Our study shows the potential areas of vector transmission of Chagas disease. In this study, the application of different methods of spatial analysis made it possible to locate these areas, which would not have been identified by only applying epidemiological indicators.

Description of the feeding preferences of triatominae in the Chagas disease surveillance study for the State of Pernambuco, Brazil (Hemiptera: Reduviidae).

INTRODUCTION:: Studying the feeding preferences of triatomines is an important entomological surveillance tool, since continuous surveillance of the disease is necessary. METHODS:: The precipitin reaction was used to describe the feeding preferences of triatomines along with their natural infection by flagellates similar to Tyrpanosoma cruzi. Six hundred eighty-seven insects were examined, including Triatoma brasiliensis, Triatoma pseudomaculata, and Panstrongylus lutzi. RESULTS:: Sixty-nine (10%) of 687 triatomines examined tested positive for flagellates similar to T. cruzi, and 8 (1.2%) of these fed on human blood. CONCLUSIONS:: This study found potential transmitters of Chagas disease both inside and outside the domiciliar environment.

Avaliação externa da qualidade da identificação entomológica de triatomíneos realizada na Rede de Laboratórios Públicos em Pernambuco, 2017 / Evaluación externa de la calidad en la identificación entomológica de triatominos realizada en la red de laboratorios públicos en Pernambuco, Brasil, 2017 / External quality assessment of entomological identification of triatomines carried out in the Pernambuco Public Health Laboratory network, Brazil, 2017

Objetivo: Avaliar a qualidade da identificação de triatomíneos na rede de laboratórios do estado de Pernambuco, Brasil. Métodos: Os nove laboratórios participantes receberam material de apoio com as chaves dicotômicas e um painel composto por sete insetos triatomíneos conhecidos no estado, para identificação da situação do espécime no recebimento (estrutura completa ou danificada), espécie e sexo. Resultados: Nove laboratórios de 12 aderiram ao estudo. A proporção de acerto para identificação do sexo foi de 56/63, e para espécie, 45/63, não apresentando relação direta com a ocorrência de danos nas estruturas morfológicas durante o transporte dos insetos. Para Panstrongylus megistus, houve acerto em todos os espécimes (9/9), enquanto para espécies do gênero Rhodnius a proporção foi menor (3/9). Conclusão: Apesar do bom desempenho na identificação entomológica, as fragilidades observadas poderão orientar ações para melhoria na rede de laboratórios e serão essenciais para os programas de controle vetorial da doença de Chagas.

Objetivo: Evaluar la calidad de la identificación de triatominos en la red de laboratorios del estado de Pernambuco, Brasil. Métodos: Los nueve laboratorios participantes recibieron material de apoyo con claves dicotómicas y un panel conformado por siete insectos triatominos conocidas en el estado, para identificar la situación del espécimen al recibirlo (estructura completa o dañada), especie y sexo. Resultados: La adherencia al laboratorio fue del 9/12. La proporción de aciertos para la identificación del sexo fue del 56/63, y para las especies 45/63, no mostraron relación directa con la ocurrencia de daños en las estructuras morfológicas durante el transporte de insectos. Solo Panstrongylus megistus logró el 9/9 de precisión, mientras que para las especies del género Rhodnius fue el más pequeño (3/9). Conclusión: A pesar del buen desempeño en identificación entomológica, la evaluación indicó debilidades que permitirán implementar acciones correctivas para mejorar la red de laboratorios, esenciales para los programas de control vectorial de la enfermedad de Chagas.

Objective: To assess the quality of triatomine identification in the laboratory network of the state of Pernambuco, Brazil. Methods: The participating laboratories received support material with dichotomous keys and a panel made up of seven triatomine insects known in the Pernambuco, in order to identify specimen status on receipt (intact or damaged structure), as well as species and sex. Results: Nine out of 12 laboratories took part of the study. The proportion of correct answers was 56/63 for sex identification, and 45/63, for species. The answers did not present a direct relationship with occurrence of damage to morphological structures during insect transportation. Panstrongylus megistus identification was correct for all specimens (9/9 laboratories), while correct identification of species of the Rhodnius genus was the lowest (3/9 laboratories). Conclusion: Despite the good performance in entomological identification, the weaknesses observed may guide improvements in the laboratory network and will be essential for Chagas disease vector control programs.

Situação epidemiológica e controle da esquistossomose em Pernambuco: estudo descritivo, 2010-2016 / Situación epidemiológica y control de la esquistosomiasis en Pernambuco, Brasil: estudio descriptivo, 2010-2016 / Epidemiological situation and control of schistosomiasis in Pernambuco, Brazil: a descriptive study, 2010-2016

Resumo Objetivo: descrever as ações de controle e a situação epidemiológica da esquistossomose, em Pernambuco, Brasil, 2010-2016. Métodos: estudo descritivo, com dados do Sistema de Informação do Programa de Vigilância e Controle da Esquistossomose em 116 municípios, incluindo indicadores relacionados às ações de controle (população trabalhada, exames realizados, cobertura de tratamento) e epidemiológicas (positividade, carga parasitária, outras helmintoses). Resultados: as II, III, IV, V e XII regiões de saúde do estado, tradicionalmente endêmicas, registraram maiores percentuais médios para ações de controle (população trabalhada [6,5%, 6,0%, 2,0%, 12,0% e 13,0%], exames realizados [75,0%, 75,5%, 74,0%, 74,0% e 68,5%] e cobertura de tratamento [71,0%, 82,5%, 82,0%, 91,0% e 73,0%], respectivamente), e maiores percentuais médios para variáveis epidemiológicas (positividade [3,5%, 8,0%, 1,0%, 2,0% e 6,5%], alta carga parasitária [0,1%, 0,7%, 0,02%, 0,03% e 0,5%] e outras helmintoses [4,0%, 11,0%, 4,0%, 6,0% e 8,0%], respectivamente). Conclusão: deve-se ampliar as ações de controle nas regiões tradicionalmente endêmicas.

Resumen Objetivo: describir las acciones de control y la situación epidemiológica de la esquistosomiasis, Pernambuco, Brasil, 2010-2016. Métodos: estudio descriptivo utilizando datos del Sistema de Información del Programa de Vigilancia y Control de Esquistosomiasis en 116 municipios, incluyendo indicadores relacionados con acciones de control (población trabajada, pruebas realizadas, cobertura del tratamiento) y epidemiológicas (positividad, carga parasitaria, otros helmintos). Resultados: las regiones de salud II, III, IV, V y XII del estado, tradicionalmente endémicas, registraron porcentajes promedios más altos para las acciones de control (población trabajada [6,5%, 6,0%, 2,0%, 12,0% y 13,0%], exámenes [75,0%, 75,5%, 74,0%, 74,0% y 68,5%] y tratamiento [71,0%, 82,5%, 82,0%, 91,0% y 73,0%], respectivamente), y porcentajes promedios más altos para variables epidemiológicas (positividad [3,5%, 8,0%, 1,0%, 2,0% y 6,5%], alta carga parasitaria [0,1%, 0,7%, 0,02%, 0,03% y 0,5%] y otros helmintos [4,0%, 11,0%, 4,0%, 6,0% y 8,0%], respectivamente). Conclusión: ampliar las acciones de control en regiones tradicionalmente endémicas.

Abstract Objective: to describe schistosomiasis control actions and its epidemiological situation in Pernambuco, Brazil, 2010-2016. Methods: this was a descriptive study using data from the Schistosomiasis Surveillance and Control Program Information System for 116 municipalities, including indicators related to control actions (population surveyed, tests performed, treatment coverage) and epidemiological actions (positivity, parasite load, other helminthiases). Results: Health Regions II, III, IV, V and XII, which are traditionally endemic, registered higher average percentages for control actions (population surveyed [6.5%, 6.0%, 2.0%, 12.0%, and 13.0%], tests performed [75.0%, 75.5%, 74.0%, 74.0%, and 68.5%], and treatment coverage [71.0%, 82.5%, 82.0%, 91.0%, and 73.0%], respectively), and higher average percentages for epidemiological variables (positivity [3.5%, 8.0%, 1.0%, 2.0%, and 6.5%], high parasite load [0.1%, 0.7%, 0.02%, 0.03%, and 0.5%], and other helminthiases [4.0%, 11.0%, 4.0%, 6.0%, and 8.0%], respectively). Conclusion: control actions need to be expanded in traditionally endemic regions.

Situação epidemiológica e controle da esquistossomose em Pernambuco: estudo descritivo, 2010-2016 / Situación epidemiológica y control de la esquistosomiasis en Pernambuco, Brasil: estudio descriptivo, 2010-2016 / Epidemiological situation and control of schistosomiasis in Pernambuco, Brazil: a descriptive study, 2010-2016

Resumo Objetivo: descrever as ações de controle e a situação epidemiológica da esquistossomose, em Pernambuco, Brasil, 2010-2016. Métodos: estudo descritivo, com dados do Sistema de Informação do Programa de Vigilância e Controle da Esquistossomose em 116 municípios, incluindo indicadores relacionados às ações de controle (população trabalhada, exames realizados, cobertura de tratamento) e epidemiológicas (positividade, carga parasitária, outras helmintoses). Resultados: as II, III, IV, V e XII regiões de saúde do estado, tradicionalmente endêmicas, registraram maiores percentuais médios para ações de controle (população trabalhada [6,5%, 6,0%, 2,0%, 12,0% e 13,0%], exames realizados [75,0%, 75,5%, 74,0%, 74,0% e 68,5%] e cobertura de tratamento [71,0%, 82,5%, 82,0%, 91,0% e 73,0%], respectivamente), e maiores percentuais médios para variáveis epidemiológicas (positividade [3,5%, 8,0%, 1,0%, 2,0% e 6,5%], alta carga parasitária [0,1%, 0,7%, 0,02%, 0,03% e 0,5%] e outras helmintoses [4,0%, 11,0%, 4,0%, 6,0% e 8,0%], respectivamente). Conclusão: deve-se ampliar as ações de controle nas regiões tradicionalmente endêmicas.

Resumen Objetivo: describir las acciones de control y la situación epidemiológica de la esquistosomiasis, Pernambuco, Brasil, 2010-2016. Métodos: estudio descriptivo utilizando datos del Sistema de Información del Programa de Vigilancia y Control de Esquistosomiasis en 116 municipios, incluyendo indicadores relacionados con acciones de control (población trabajada, pruebas realizadas, cobertura del tratamiento) y epidemiológicas (positividad, carga parasitaria, otros helmintos). Resultados: las regiones de salud II, III, IV, V y XII del estado, tradicionalmente endémicas, registraron porcentajes promedios más altos para las acciones de control (población trabajada [6,5%, 6,0%, 2,0%, 12,0% y 13,0%], exámenes [75,0%, 75,5%, 74,0%, 74,0% y 68,5%] y tratamiento [71,0%, 82,5%, 82,0%, 91,0% y 73,0%], respectivamente), y porcentajes promedios más altos para variables epidemiológicas (positividad [3,5%, 8,0%, 1,0%, 2,0% y 6,5%], alta carga parasitaria [0,1%, 0,7%, 0,02%, 0,03% y 0,5%] y otros helmintos [4,0%, 11,0%, 4,0%, 6,0% y 8,0%], respectivamente). Conclusión: ampliar las acciones de control en regiones tradicionalmente endémicas.

Abstract Objective: to describe schistosomiasis control actions and its epidemiological situation in Pernambuco, Brazil, 2010-2016. Methods: this was a descriptive study using data from the Schistosomiasis Surveillance and Control Program Information System for 116 municipalities, including indicators related to control actions (population surveyed, tests performed, treatment coverage) and epidemiological actions (positivity, parasite load, other helminthiases). Results: Health Regions II, III, IV, V and XII, which are traditionally endemic, registered higher average percentages for control actions (population surveyed [6.5%, 6.0%, 2.0%, 12.0%, and 13.0%], tests performed [75.0%, 75.5%, 74.0%, 74.0%, and 68.5%], and treatment coverage [71.0%, 82.5%, 82.0%, 91.0%, and 73.0%], respectively), and higher average percentages for epidemiological variables (positivity [3.5%, 8.0%, 1.0%, 2.0%, and 6.5%], high parasite load [0.1%, 0.7%, 0.02%, 0.03%, and 0.5%], and other helminthiases [4.0%, 11.0%, 4.0%, 6.0%, and 8.0%], respectively). Conclusion: control actions need to be expanded in traditionally endemic regions.

Quality of life related to health for heart failure patients / Calidad de vida relacionada con la salud de pacientes con insuficiencia cardíaca / Qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde em pacientes com insuficiência cardíaca

ABSTRACT Objective: To assess the quality of life related to health for heart failure patients and to relate sociodemographic and clinical data. Method: It is an observational and transversal study, with quantitative approach, carried out in a heart failure ambulatory in the state of Pernambuco. Results: In the sample (n=101), there was prevalence of men older than 60 years old, married and professionally inactive. The quality of life related to health, based on the Minnesota Living With Heart Failure Questionnaire, was considered moderate (34.3±21.6), being significantly related to age (p=0.004), functional class (p<0.001), and patients with chagasic cardiopathy (p=0.02). Conclusion: The quality of life in the HF group of chagasic etiology was more compromised, specially in the emotional dimension. It is suggested that studies on the hypothesis that longer ambulatory follow-up improves quality of life and that having Chagas disease interferes negatively with the quality of life of heart failure patients.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Evaluar la calidad de vida relacionada con la salud de los pacientes con insuficiencia cardíaca (IC) y relacionar los datos sociodemográficos y clínicos. Método: Se trata de estudio observacional, de corte transversal, con abordaje cuantitativo realizado en Ambulatorio de insuficiencia cardíaca en el estado de Pernambuco. Resultados: En la muestra (n=101) hubo un predominio de hombres, mayores de 60 años de edad, casados y profesionalmente inactivos. La calidad de vida relacionada con la salud, desde el cuestionario Minnesota Living With Heart Failure Questionnaire, fue moderada (34,3±21,6), presentando una relación significativa con la edad (p=0,004), la clase funcional (p<0,001) y en pacientes con cardiopatía chagásica (p=0,02). Conclusión: La calidad de vida en el grupo IC de etiología chagásica estuvo más comprometida, principalmente la dimensión emocional. Se recomienda realizar estudios que aborden las hipótesis de que el mayor tiempo de seguimiento ambulatorio mejora la calidad de vida y de que tener la enfermedad de Chagas interfiere negativamente en la calidad de vida de pacientes con insuficiencia cardíaca.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar a qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde dos pacientes com insuficiência cardíaca e relacionar aos dados sociodemográficos e clínicos. Método: Trata-se de estudo observacional, de corte transversal, com abordagem quantitativa realizado em ambulatório de insuficiência cardíaca no estado de Pernambuco. Resultados: Na amostra (n=101) houve predominância de homens, maiores de 60 anos, casados, profissionalmente inativos. A qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde, a partir do questionário Minnesota Living With Heart Failure Questionnaire foi considerada moderada (34,3±21,6), apresentando relação significativa com idade (p=0,004), classe funcional (p<0,001) e em pacientes com cardiopatia chagásica (p=0,02). Conclusão: A qualidade de vida no grupo IC de etiologia chagásica esteve mais comprometida, especialmente na dimensão emocional. Sugere-se a realização de estudos abordando as hipóteses de que maior tempo de acompanhamento ambulatorial melhora a qualidade de vida e que ter doença de Chagas interfere negativamente na qualidade de vida de pacientes com insuficiência cardíaca.

Synanthropic triatomines (Hemiptera, Reduviidae) in the state of Pernambuco, Brazil: geographical distribution and natural Trypanosoma infection rates between 2006 and 2007.

INTRODUCTION: The present study shows a descriptive analysis of triatomine occurrence and its natural Trypanosoma infection rates in the state of Pernambuco, Brazil, between 2006 and 2007. METHODS: Entomological data for the species, such as specimens captured in both intra and peridomiciles and natural infection index, were obtained via domiciliary capture in 147 municipalities from 11 Regional Managements of Health. The database was obtained from a sample of insects (100% infected and 20% non-infected) sent to the Central Laboratory of Pernambuco. RESULTS: A total of 18,029 triatomines were analyzed from 138 municipalities of the state. Triatoma pseudomaculata (35%), Triatoma brasiliensis (34%), and Panstrongylus lutzi (25%) were the most captured species. These species also showed a widespread geographical distribution in the state. Panstrongylus megistus, Triatoma petrocchiae, Triatoma melanocephala, Triatoma sordida, Rhodnius nasutus, Rhodnius neglectus, and Triatoma infestans showed more limited geographical distribution and lower relative abundance. The parasitological research showed that 8.8% of the triatomines were naturally infected with flagellates morphologically similar to Trypanosoma cruzi and 91.3% of them were captured inside houses in 113 municipalities. P. lutzi showed the highest rates of natural infection. CONCLUSIONS: After the control of T. infestans, synanthropic species, such as T. brasiliensis, T. pseudomaculata, and P. lutzi, maintain the risk of T. cruzi transmission to humans in the state of Pernambuco. These species are widely distributed, and infected specimens have been found inside houses. Thus, an enhanced surveillance and vector control of Chagas disease is recommended in Pernambuco.

Description of the feeding preferences of triatominae in the Chagas disease surveillance study for the State of Pernambuco, Brazil (Hemiptera: Reduviidae)

Abstract INTRODUCTION: Studying the feeding preferences of triatomines is an important entomological surveillance tool, since continuous surveillance of the disease is necessary. METHODS: The precipitin reaction was used to describe the feeding preferences of triatomines along with their natural infection by flagellates similar to Tyrpanosoma cruzi. Six hundred eighty-seven insects were examined, including Triatoma brasiliensis, Triatoma pseudomaculata, and Panstrongylus lutzi. RESULTS: Sixty-nine (10%) of 687 triatomines examined tested positive for flagellates similar to T. cruzi, and 8 (1.2%) of these fed on human blood. CONCLUSIONS: This study found potential transmitters of Chagas disease both inside and outside the domiciliar environment.

Registration of new geographical distribution of Panstrongylus geniculatus (Latreille) 1811 (Hemiptera, Reduviidae, Triatominae) in Brazil

The first report of the occurrence of Panstrongylus geniculatus (Latreille) 1811 was reported in the state of Pernambuco. Therefore its distribution was amplified, and now, such as P. megistus, is the most widely distributed species in Brazil. P. geniculatus was found by health workers in intradomiciliary environments in Vitória de Santo Antão, testing positive for flagellates observed by direct examination of intestinal contents, and Giemsa staining

Análise da positividade da esquistossomose mansoni em Regionais de Saúde endêmicas em Pernambuco, 2005 a 2010* / Analysis of Schistosomiasis mansoni positivity in endemic Health Regions in the State of Pernambuco, Brazil, 2005-2010

Analisar a tendência da positividade da esquistossomose em exames coproscópicos na população de área endêmica do estado de Pernambuco, Brasil, de 2005 a 2010. Métodos: estudo ecológico de serie temporal, com dados secundários do Sistema de Informação do Programa de Controle da Esquistossomose, analisados por Regional de Saúde; foram avaliadas as tendências por regressão linear, considerando-se p<0,05 significativo. Resultados: Pernambuco apresentou média de 9,2 por cento de positividade; a Regional de Saúde III (Palmares) apresentou maior média de positividade (13,8 por cento), seguida das regionais II (Limoeiro: 9,9 por cento) e I (Recife: 7,8 por cento); a Regional V (Garanhuns) apresentou melhor média de tratamento (95,6 por cento), seguida da III (86,6 por cento); Pernambuco apresentou tendência decrescente na positividade para esquistossomose (p=0,005). Conclusão: em geral, há uma tendência decrescente da positividade de esquistossomose em Pernambuco, apesar da queda no número de exames; é importante manter e intensificar as intervenções de controle, com prioridades estratégicas focalizadas em localidades com elevadas prevalências...

To analyze Schistosomiasis positivity trends in stool tests in the population in endemic area of the state of Pernambuco, Brazil, 2005-2010. Methods: this was an ecological time series study using secondary data from the Schistosomiasis Control Program Information System, analyzed by Health Region. Trends were evaluated using linear regression and p<0.05 was considered significant. Results: Pernambuco had average positivity of 9.2 per cent; the 3rd Region (Palmares) had the highest average positivity (13.8 per cent), followed by the 2nd (Limoeiro: 9.9 per cent) and the 1st (Recife: 7.8 per cent); the 5th Region (Garanhuns) had best average treatment (95.6 per cent), followed by Palmares (86.6 per cent); Pernambuco showed a declining trend of Schistosomiasis positivity (p=0.005). Conclusion: in general, there has been a declining trend of Schistosomiasis positivity in Pernambuco, despite the reduction in the number of tests; it is important to maintain and intensify control interventions, with priority strategies focused on highest prevalence locations...

Importância da distribuição geográfica dos vetores da doença de chagas em Pernambuco, Brasil, em 2012 / The importance of the geographical distribution of Chagas disease vectors in Pernambuco during 2012

Objetivos: Ressaltar a importância da distribuição geográfica e do comportamento dos vetores dadoença de Chagas no estado de Pernambuco. Métodos: O material analisado incluiu 100 por cento dosinsetos infectados por Trypanosoma sp. e 40 por cento dos insetos negativos, examinados no Laboratório deEndemias para confirmação taxonômica, pesquisa do parasito nas fezes dos triatomíneos e Controleda Qualidade na confirmação do diagnóstico. Resultados: Foram examinados 3.323 triatomíneos.A infecção natural por tripanossomatídeos foi detectada em 21,3 por cento dos exemplares. Triatomabrasiliensis foi a espécie mais frequente no intradomicílio (24,3 por cento), Triatoma pseudomaculata(14,9 por cento) e Panstrongylus megistus apresentaram proporcionalmente taxa de infecção naturalsuperior às demais (40,8 por cento) no peridomicílio. Conclusão: O conhecimento atualizado da distribuiçãogeográfica dos vetores da doença de Chagas é importante para fundamentar ações integradas entreos serviços de saúde, o que contribui para a vigilância entomológica no controle dos triatomíneos.

Objectives: To underscore the importance of geographic distribution and behavior of vectors ofChagas disease in the state of Pernambuco. Methods: The material analyzed included 100 percent of theinsects infected with Trypanosoma spp., and 40 percent of negative insects, examined at the EndemicDisease Laboratory for taxonomic confirmation, searching for the parasite in feces of the insects,with Quality Control to confirm the diagnosis. Results: A total of 3,323 triatomines. Naturalinfection by trypanosomes was detected in 21.3 percent of the specimens. Triatoma brasiliensis wasthe most frequent intradomiciliary species (24.3 percent), outside the home Triatoma pseudomaculata(14.9 percent) and Panstrongylus megistus had a natural infection rate proportionally superior to the others(40.8 percent). Conclusion: The current knowledge of the geographical distribution of Chagas diseasevectors is important as a platform to integrate actions between health services, contributing to theentomological surveillance and control of the insects.

Intoxicação aguda por agrotóxicos anticolinesterásicos na cidade do Recife, Pernambuco, 2007-2010 / Acute anticholinesterase pesticide poisoning in Recife, Pernambuco State, Brazil, 2007-2010 / Intoxicación aguda por agrotóxicos anticolinesterásicos en la ciudad de Recife, Pernambuco, 2007-2010

Objetivo: descrever as características epidemiológicas e a distribuição espacial dos casos de intoxicações agudas por agrotóxicos anticolinesterásicos na cidade do Recife, estado de Pernambuco, Brasil, no período 2007-2010. Métodos: estudo descritivo das notificações registradas no Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação (Sinan), para levantamento do perfil epidemiológico e geoprocessamento. Resultados: foram identificados 549 casos de intoxicações agudas por agrotóxicos anticolinesterásicos, sendo as maiores frequências observadas no sexo feminino (60,3 por cento), na faixa etária de 15 a 29 anos (42,3 por cento) e naqueles de cor ou raça parda (95,3 por cento); o "chumbinho" representou o principal agente tóxico envolvido (92,2 por cento) e o principal motivo das intoxicações foi a tentativa de suicídio (79,4 por cento). Conclusão: a intoxicação por agrotóxicos anticolinesterásicos acometeu principalmente mulheres, jovens e pardos; o achado de que a grande maioria dos casos estava relacionada a tentativa de suicídio indica a necessidade de ações de prevenção focadas na população detectada como vulnerável.

Objective: to describe the epidemiological characteristics and spatial distribution of acute anticholinesterase pesticide poisoning cases in the city of Recife Pernambuco State, Brazil, 2007-2010. Methods: this was a descriptive study of cases reported on the Notifiable Diseases Database (Sinan) to obtain their epidemiologic profile and perform geoprocessing. Results: 549 cases were identified. The highest frequencies occurred among females (60.3 percent), the 15-29 age group (42.3 percent) and brown-skinned individuals (95.3 percent). "Rat poison" was the main poisoning agent found (92.2 percent) and attempted suicide was the main reason for poisoning (79.4 percent). Conclusion: anticholinesterase pesticide poisoning is a serious public health problem with a high proportion of cases concentrated in youth, women and brown-skinned people. The finding that the vast majority of cases were related to attempted suicide indicates the need for prevention actions focusing vulnerable populations.

Objetivo: describir las características epidemiológicas y la distribución espacial de los casos de intoxicaciones agudas por agrotóxicos anticolinesterásicos en la ciudad de Recife, estado de Pernambuco, Brasil, en el período 2007-2010.Métodos: estudio descriptivo de las notificaciones registradas en el Sistema de Información de Agravamientos de Notificación (Sinan), para analizar el perfil epidemiológico y el geoprocesamiento.Resultados: se identificaron 549 casos de intoxicaciones agudas por agrotóxicos anticolinesterásicos, siendo observadas las mayores frecuencias en el sexo femenino (60,3%), en la franja de edad de 15 a 29 años (42,3%) y en las personas de color o raza parda (95,3%); el rodenticida ("chumbinho") fue el principal agente tóxico involucrado (92,2%) y el principal motivo de las intoxicaciones fue el intento de suicidio (79,4%). Conclusion: la intoxicación por agrotóxicos anticolinesterásicos acometió principalmente a mujeres, jóvenes y a pardos; el hallazgo de que en la gran mayoría de los casos estaba relacionada al intento de suicidio indica la necesidad de acciones de prevención dirigidas a la población detectada como vulnerable.

Synanthropic triatomines (Hemiptera, Reduviidae) in the state of Pernambuco, Brazil: geographical distribution and natural Trypanosoma infection rates between 2006 and 2007 / Triatomíneos sinantrópicos (Hemiptera, Reduviidae) no estado de Pernambuco, Brasil: distribuição geográfica e índices de infecção natural por Trypanosoma entre 2006 e 2007

INTRODUCTION: The present study shows a descriptive analysis of triatomine occurrence and its natural Trypanosoma infection rates in the state of Pernambuco, Brazil, between 2006 and 2007. METHODS: Entomological data for the species, such as specimens captured in both intra and peridomiciles and natural infection index, were obtained via domiciliary capture in 147 municipalities from 11 Regional Managements of Health. The database was obtained from a sample of insects (100 percent infected and 20 percent non-infected) sent to the Central Laboratory of Pernambuco. RESULTS: A total of 18,029 triatomines were analyzed from 138 municipalities of the state. Triatoma pseudomaculata (35 percent), Triatoma brasiliensis (34 percent), and Panstrongylus lutzi (25 percent) were the most captured species. These species also showed a widespread geographical distribution in the state. Panstrongylus megistus, Triatoma petrocchiae, Triatoma melanocephala, Triatoma sordida, Rhodnius nasutus, Rhodnius neglectus, and Triatoma infestans showed more limited geographical distribution and lower relative abundance. The parasitological research showed that 8.8 percent of the triatomines were naturally infected with flagellates morphologically similar to Trypanosoma cruzi and 91.3 percent of them were captured inside houses in 113 municipalities. P. lutzi showed the highest rates of natural infection. CONCLUSIONS: After the control of T. infestans, synanthropic species, such as T. brasiliensis, T. pseudomaculata, and P. lutzi, maintain the risk of T. cruzi transmission to humans in the state of Pernambuco. These species are widely distributed, and infected specimens have been found inside houses. Thus, an enhanced surveillance and vector control of Chagas disease is recommended in Pernambuco.

INTRODUÇÃO: O presente estudo apresenta uma análise descritiva da ocorrência de triatomíneos e seus índices de infecção natural por Trypanosoma no Estado de Pernambuco, entre 2006 e 2007. MÉTODOS: Dados entomológicos para as espécies de triatomíneos, tais como espécimes capturados no intra e peridomicílio, e índice de infecção natural foram obtidos por meio da captura domiciliar em 147 municípios das 11 Gerências Regionais de Saúde. A pequisa foi baseada em uma amostra de insetos (100 por cento dos infectados e 20 por cento dos não infectados) enviados para o Laboratório Central de Pernambuco. RESULTADOS: No total, 18.029 triatomíneos foram analisados provenientes de 138 municípios. Triatoma pseudomaculata (35 por cento), Triatoma brasiliensis (34 por cento) e Panstrongylus lutzi (25 por cento) foram as espécies mais capturadas. Estas espécies também apresentaram ampla distribuição geográfica no estado. Panstrongylus megistus, Triatoma petrocchiae, Triatoma melanocephala, Triatoma sordida, Rhodnius nasutus, Rhodnius neglectus e Triatoma infestans apresentaram distribuição geográfica mais restrita e menores valores de abundância relativa. A pesquisa parasitológica mostrou que 8,8 por cento dos triatomíneos estavam infectados por flagelados morfologicamente similares a Trypanosoma cruzi e 91,3 por cento deles foram capturados no interior das habitações em 113 municípios. P. lutzi apresentou as maiores taxas de infecção natural. CONCLUSÕES: Após o controle do T. infestans, as espécies sinantrópicas T. brasiliensis, T. pseudomaculata e P. lutzi mantêm o risco de transmissão do T. cruzi ao homem no Estado de Pernambuco. Estas espécies são amplamente distribuídas e espécimes infectados foram encontrados dentro das casas. Assim, nossos resultados recomendam reforçar a vigilância e controle vetorial da doença de Chagas em Pernambuco.