Indirect impact of COVID-19 on the incidence rates of vector-borne diseases in Mexico.

INTRODUCTION: SARS-CoV-2 infection spatial and temporal distribution overlaps with endemic areas of vector-borne diseases (VBD), whose surveillance in Mexico has substantially changed since the first COVID-19 confirmed case. OBJECTIVES: To estimate and compare the incidence rates of VBDs before and after the introduction of SARS-CoV-2 in Mexico. METHODS: Retrospective study of VBD cases from 2014 to 2021. The incidence rates of each VBD in the period before (2014-2019) and after (2020-2021) the introduction of SARS-CoV-2 in Mexico were calculated and compared. RESULTS: Before the introduction of SARS-CoV-2, the incidence rates of VBDs were high and after the introduction of coronavirus there was a decrease in epidemiological indices; however, there was only statistically significant difference in the incidence rate of malaria (p ≤ 0.05) and other rickettsiae (p ≤ 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Some measures to reduce COVID-19 cases, such as social distancing, home confinement, reductions in public transport and working at home (home office), probably temporarily decreased the number of VBD cases; however, there may be a resurgence of VBDs in the near future.

INTRODUCCIÓN: La distribución espacial y temporal de la infección por SARS-CoV-2 sobrepasa las áreas endémicas de enfermedades transmitidas por vector (ETV), cuya vigilancia en México ha cambiado sustancialmente a partir del primer caso confirmado de COVID-19. OBJETIVOS: Estimar y comparar las tasas de incidencia de las ETV antes y después de la introducción del SARS-CoV-2 en México. MÉTODOS: Estudio retrospectivo de casos de ETV de 2014 a 2021. Las tasas de incidencia de cada ETV en el periodo previo (2014-2019) y posterior (2020-2021) a la introducción del SARS-CoV-2 en México fueron calculadas y comparadas. RESULTADOS: Antes de la introducción del SARS-CoV-2, las tasas de incidencia de las ETV fueron altas y posterior a la introducción del coronavirus hubo un descenso en los índices epidemiológicos; sin embargo, solo se identificó diferencia estadística significativa en la tasa de incidencia de la malaria (p ≤ 0.05) y otras rickettsias (p ≤ 0.05). CONCLUSIONES: Algunas medidas para reducir los casos de COVID-19, como el distanciamiento social, el confinamiento domiciliario, la reducción en el aforo en el transporte público y el trabajo en casa, probablemente contribuyeron a disminuir temporalmente el número de casos de las ETV; sin embargo, puede haber rebrote de las ETV en el futuro cercano.

COVID-19 and its impact on the control of Aedes (Stegomyia) aegypti mosquito and epidemiological surveillance of arbovirus infections.

In American countries, simultaneously with the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, epidemics caused by different arboviruses (dengue, chikungunya and Zika viruses) are occurring. In Mexico, several of the strategies to control the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which transmits arboviruses, involve the interaction of health personnel with the community. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, social distancing and home confinement measures have been implemented. To obey these measures and avoid the risk of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) transmission, the National Center for Preventive Programs and Disease Control (CENAPRECE) has presented the vector control strategy in the scenario of simultaneous dengue and COVID-19 transmission in Mexico. In this work, we mention the routine comprehensive mosquito control measures and describe the adaptations that have been made. Furthermore, we discuss the relevance of medical personnel training and supervision, especially focusing on the similarity of symptoms between both pathologies.

En países americanos, simultáneas a la pandemia de enfermedad por coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) se están dando epidemias ocasionadas por diferentes arbovirus (del dengue, chikunguña y virus del Zika). En México, varias de las estrategias para control del mosquito Aedes aegypti, transmisor de arbovirus, involucran la interacción del personal salubrista y los moradores. Debido a la pandemia de COVID-19 se han implementado medidas de distanciamiento social y resguardo domiciliario. Para respetar estas medidas y evitar riesgo de contagio por coronavirus 2 del síndrome respiratorio agudo grave (SARS-CoV-2), el Centro Nacional de Programas Preventivos y Control de Enfermedades (CENAPRECE) ha presentado la estrategia de control de vectores en el escenario de transmisión simultánea por dengue y COVID-19 en México. En este trabajo mencionamos las medidas habituales de manejo integral de mosquito y mencionamos las adaptaciones realizadas. De igual forma, discutimos la relevancia de la capacitación y la supervisión al personal médico, esto debido a la similitud entre la sintomatología entre ambas patologías.

Compatibility between Leptolegnia chapmanii and diflubenzuron and neem oil for the control of Aedes aegypti.

Leptolegnia chapmanii is pathogenic to mosquito larvae. The compatibility between L. chapmanii and two insect growth regulators (IGR), diflubenzuron and neem oil, was evaluated. L. chapmanii was grown on culture media containing different concentrations of each IGR. The mycelial growth was significantly reduced with the highest concentrations of IGR (F6,98=268, p<0.05). However, the production of zoospores (F6,56=0.93, p>0.05) and the larval mortality of Aedes aegypti (F6,56=0.95, p>0.05) were not significantly different among treatments. Furthermore, the percentage of adult emergence in the presence of different concentrations of diflubenzuron or a neem formulation was determined, and the pathogenic activity of zoospores was evaluated at the concentrations that inhibit the emergence at 30, 50 and 90%. The pathogenicity of zoospores was not significantly different among treatments (F6,14=0.54, p>0.05), and the larval mortalities were above 90% in all cases.

Assessing effects of non-native crayfish on mosquito survival.

Introductions of non-native predators often reduce biodiversity and affect natural predator-prey relationships and may increase the abundance of potential disease vectors (e.g., mosquitoes) indirectly through competition or predation cascades. The Santa Monica Mountains (California, U.S.A.), situated in a global biodiversity hotspot, is an area of conservation concern due to climate change, urbanization, and the introduction of non-native species. We examined the effect of non-native crayfish (Procambarus clarkii) on an existing native predator, dragonfly nymphs (Aeshna sp.), and their mosquito larvae (Anopheles sp.) prey. We used laboratory experiments to compare the predation efficiency of both predators, separately and together, and field data on counts of dragonfly nymphs and mosquito larvae sampled from 13 local streams. We predicted a lower predation efficiency of crayfish compared with native dragonfly nymphs and a reduced predation efficiency of dragonfly nymphs in the presence of crayfish. Dragonfly nymphs were an order of magnitude more efficient predators than crayfish, and dragonfly nymph predation efficiency was reduced in the presence of crayfish. Field count data showed that populations of dragonfly nymphs and mosquito larvae were strongly correlated with crayfish presence in streams, such that sites with crayfish tended to have fewer dragonfly nymphs and more mosquito larvae. Under natural conditions, it is likely that crayfish reduce the abundance of dragonfly nymphs and their predation efficiency and thereby, directly and indirectly, lead to higher mosquito populations and a loss of ecosystem services related to disease vector control.

Epidemics which never came: yellow fever (1883) and bubonic plague (1902-1903) in Baja California / Las epidemias que nunca llegaron: fiebre amarilla (1883) y peste bubónica (1902-1903) en Baja California.

This paper seeks to clarify the epidemic panorama that was generated in Baja California in the late nineteenth and early twentieth 20th century's, specifically that occurred in 1883 and 1902, years in which it is claimed occurred epidemics of yellow fever and bubonic plague respectively. However, as demonstrated in our study they never occurred due to social-demographic conditions in the area.

Este artículo busca aclarar el panorama epidémico que se generó en Baja California a finales del siglo XIX y principios del XX, específicamente el que se dio en 1883 y 1902, años en los que se afirma que ocurrieron epidemias de fiebre amarilla y peste bubónica, respectivamente. Sin embargo, como se demuestra en nuestro estudio, nunca ocurrieron debido a las condiciones sociodemográficas de la zona.

Pyrethroids and DDT tolerance of Anopheles gambiae s.l. from Sengerema District, an area of intensive pesticide usage in north-western Tanzania.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the susceptibility status of malaria vectors to pyrethroids and dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT), characterise the mechanisms underlying resistance and evaluate the role of agro-chemical use in resistance selection among malaria vectors in Sengerema agro-ecosystem zone, Tanzania. METHODS: Mosquito larvae were collected from farms and reared to obtain adults. The susceptibility status of An. gambiae s.l. was assessed using WHO bioassay tests to permethrin, deltamethrin, lambdacyhalothrin, etofenprox, cyfluthrin and DDT. Resistant specimens were screened for knock-down resistance gene (kdr), followed by sequencing both Western and Eastern African variants. A gas chromatography-mass spectrophotometer (GC-MS) was used to determine pesticide residues in soil and sediments from mosquitoes' breeding habitats. RESULTS: Anopheles gambiae s.l. was resistant to all the insecticides tested. The population of Anopheles gambiae s.l was composed of Anopheles arabiensis by 91%. The East African kdr (L1014S) allele was found in 13 of 305 specimens that survived insecticide exposure, with an allele frequency from 0.9% to 50%. DDTs residues were found in soils at a concentration up to 9.90 ng/g (dry weight). CONCLUSION: The observed high resistance levels of An. gambiae s.l., the detection of kdr mutations and pesticide residues in mosquito breeding habitats demonstrate vector resistance mediated by pesticide usage. An integrated intervention through collaboration of agricultural, livestock and vector control units is vital.

Systemic insecticides used in dogs: potential candidates for phlebotomine vector control?

Zoonotic visceral leishmaniasis (ZVL) is a public health problem endemic in some countries. Current control measures, in particular culling infected dogs, have not reduced ZVL incidence in humans. We evaluated the use of five systemic insecticides (spinosad, fluralaner, afoxolaner, sarolaner and moxidectin) currently used in dogs for other purposes (e.g. tick, flea control) in controlling ZVL transmission. The anti-phlebotomine capacity of these compounds confirmed in experimental studies makes their use in ZVL control programmes very promising. Limitations and benefits of using this new control tool are compared to current practices.

Species Distribution Modelling of Aedes aegypti in two dengue-endemic regions of Pakistan.

OBJECTIVES: Statistical tools are effectively used to determine the distribution of mosquitoes and to make ecological inferences about the vector-borne disease dynamics. In this study, we utilised species distribution models to understand spatial patterns of Aedes aegypti in two dengue-prevalent regions of Pakistan, Lahore and Swat. Species distribution models can potentially indicate the probability of suitability of Ae. aegypti once introduced to new regions like Swat, where invasion of this species is a recent phenomenon. METHODS: The distribution of Ae. aegypti was determined by applying the MaxEnt algorithm on a set of potential environmental factors and species sample records. The ecological dependency of species on each environmental variable was analysed using response curves. We quantified the statistical performance of the models based on accuracy assessment and spatial predictions. RESULTS: Our results suggest that Ae. aegypti is widely distributed in Lahore. Human population density and urban infrastructure are primarily responsible for greater probability of mosquito occurrence in this region. In Swat, Ae. aegypti has clumped distribution, where urban patches provide refuge to the species in an otherwise hostile heterogeneous environment and road networks are assumed to have facilitated in passive-mediated dispersal of species. CONCLUSIONS: In Pakistan, Ae. aegypti is expanding its range northwards; this could be associated with rapid urbanisation, trade and travel. The main implication of this expansion is that more people are at risk of dengue fever in the northern highlands of Pakistan.

First case of imported Zika virus infection in Spain.

We report a case of Zika virus (ZIKV) infection in a patient with diarrhea, fever, synovitis, non-purulent conjunctivitis, and with discreet retro-orbital pain, after returning from Colombia in January 2016. The patient referred several mosquito bites. Presence of ZIKV was detected by PCR (polymerase chain reaction) in plasma. Rapid microbiological diagnosis of ZIKV infection is needed in European countries with circulation of its vector, in order to avoid autochthonous circulation. The recent association of ZIKV infection with abortion and microcephaly, and a Guillain-Barré syndrome highlights the need for laboratory differentiation of ZIKV from other virus infection. Women with potential risk for Zika virus infection who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant must mention that fact during prenatal visits in order to be evaluated and properly monitored.

Effect of rotational shepherding on demographic and genetic connectivity of calcareous grassland plants.

Response to habitat fragmentation may not be generalized among species, in particular for plant communities with a variety of dispersal traits. Calcareous grasslands are one of the most species-rich habitats in Central Europe, but abandonment of traditional management has caused a dramatic decline of calcareous grassland species. In the Southern Franconian Alb in Germany, reintroduction of rotational shepherding in previously abandoned grasslands has restored species diversity, and it has been suggested that sheep support seed dispersal among grasslands. We tested the effect of rotational shepherding on demographic and genetic connectivity of calcareous grassland specialist plants and whether the response of plant populations to shepherding was limited to species dispersed by animals (zoochory). Specifically, we tested competing dispersal models and source and focal patch properties to explain landscape connectivity with patch-occupancy data of 31 species. We fitted the same connectivity models to patch occupancy and nuclear microsatellite data for the herb Dianthus carthusianorum (Carthusian pink). For 27 species, patch connectivity was explained by dispersal by rotational shepherding regardless of adaptations to zoochory, whereas population size (16% species) and patch area (0% species) of source patches were not important predictors of patch occupancy in most species. [Correction made after online publication, February 25, 2014: Population size and patch area percentages were mistakenly inverted, and have now been fixed.] Microsite diversity of focal patches significantly increased the model variance explained by patch occupancy in 90% of the species. For D. carthusianorum, patch connectivity through rotational shepherding explained both patch occupancy and population genetic diversity. Our results suggest shepherding provides dispersal for multiple plant species regardless of their dispersal adaptations and thus offers a useful approach to restore plant diversity in fragmented calcareous grasslands.

Positive feedback loop between introductions of non-native marine species and cultivation of oysters in Europe.

With globalization, agriculture and aquaculture activities are increasingly affected by diseases that are spread through movement of crops and stock. Such movements are also associated with the introduction of non-native species via hitchhiking individual organisms. The oyster industry, one of the most important forms of marine aquaculture, embodies these issues. In Europe disease outbreaks affecting cultivated populations of the naturalized oyster Crassostrea gigas caused a major disruption of production in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Mitigation procedures involved massive imports of stock from the species' native range in the northwestern Pacific from 1971 to 1977. We assessed the role stock imports played in the introduction of non-native marine species (including pathogens) from the northwestern Pacific to Europe through a methodological and critical appraisal of record data. The discovery rate of non-native species (a proxy for the introduction rate) from 1966 to 2012 suggests a continuous vector activity over the entire period. Disease outbreaks that have been affecting oyster production since 2008 may be a result of imports from the northwestern Pacific, and such imports are again being considered as an answer to the crisis. Although successful as a remedy in the short and medium terms, such translocations may bring new diseases that may trigger yet more imports (self-reinforcing or positive feedback loop) and lead to the introduction of more hitchhikers. Although there is a legal framework to prevent or reduce these introductions, existing procedures should be improved.

[First record of Aedes albopictus in Galicia, obtained by citizen science through Mosquito Alert]. / Primera cita de Aedes albopictus para Galicia, obtenida mediante ciencia ciudadana por Mosquito Alert.

The first detection of the tiger mosquito, Aedes (Stegomyia) albopictus (Skuse, 1894), in the autonomous community of Galicia (Spain) is reported. The finding has been possible thanks to the collaboration between citizens, the citizen science application Mosquito Alert and the Rede Galega de Vixilancia de Vectores (ReGaViVec). At the beginning of August 2023, a same person submitted through the app several reports consistent with the tiger mosquito in the municipality of Moaña, in Pontevedra. The ReGaViVec entomological team confirmed the species and conducted vector surveillance in the area by placing traps (11 ovitraps and 3 BG-Sentinel 2 with BG-Lure attractant) with a weekly collection frequency. This finding represents the most northwestern detection of the tiger mosquito in the Iberian Peninsula and shows the crucial role of citizen science in vector surveillance.

[Climate change and vector-borne diseases. From knowledge to action]. / Cambio climático y enfermedades transmitidas por vectores. Convertir el conocimiento en acción.

Andalusia is particularly sensitive to climate change, not only because of extreme weather events, but also because of the impact on the population dynamics of vectors, pathogens, reservoirs and hosts, which has led to a change in the epidemiological patterns of vector-borne diseases. In order to achieve an integrated vector management for disease control, public action is necessary. This study describes the design of the initial phase of a strategy for knowledge translation about climate change and vector-borne diseases to the public, using transdisciplinary co-creation and the World Café participatory method with three discussion rounds to address strategies for three age groups (adults, adolescents and schoolchildren). The aim is to drive knowledge into action and for this purpose the underlying messages for action (strategic and instrumental) have been identified, as well as the formats of the knowledge products and the potential implementers of the strategies.

Agreement between vector analysis and body composition measurements by four types of bioelectrical impedance technology in hemodialysis patients.

Introduction: Background: the differences in bioelectrical impedance vector analysis (BIVA) results from different analyzers that use different bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) measurement technologies are not known. This study aimed to identify the degree of agreement between the BIVA results of four different BIA measurement techniques and to evaluate the degree of agreement between their estimates of fat-free mass (FFM) and fat mass (FM) and those determined by the gold-standard method of dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) in a subgroup of patients without overhydration. Methods: a cross-sectional study was conducted with hemodialysis (HD) patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) aged 18 to 65 years. BIA was measured with four different techniques: spectroscopic (BIA-BIS), multifrequency (BIA-MF), single-frequency (BIA-SF), and segmental multifrequency (BIA-MS) techniques. The differences and concordance between the components of the BIA (resistance, reactance, and phase angle) of the four devices were analyzed. Patients with a normal hydration status were identified, and concordance between FM and FFM measurements with each impedance device and DEXA was observed only in these patients. Results: thirty patients were included. The concordance between the components of BIA ranged from good to excellent (phase angle: intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) = 0.82, 95 % confidence interval (CI): 0.77-0.93; resistance: ICC = 0.98, 95 % CI: 0.92-0.99). The overall concordance for BIVA diagnosis between the analyzers was substantial for hydration (k = 0.71, 95 % CI: 0.71-0.72) and for body tissues (k = 0.68, 95 % CI: 0.67-0.68). Bland-Altman plots showed the lowest bias between BIA-BIS and DEXA for both FM and FFM. Conclusions: the agreement among the four devices was good for diagnosis by BIVA. The BIA-BIS analyzer and DEXA had the lowest bias for both FFM and FM, although with higher limits of agreement. The lowest limits of agreement were found with the BIA-MS analyzer.

Introducción: Antecedentes: se desconoce si existen diferencias en el diagnóstico dado por el análisis de vectores de impedancia bioeléctrica (BIVA por sus siglas en inglés) entre los analizadores que utilizan distintas tecnologías de medición de impedancia bioeléctrica (IBE). Este estudio tuvo como objetivo identificar el grado de concordancia entre el diagnóstico por BIVA de cuatro técnicas diferentes de medición de IBE, así como evaluar el grado de concordancia entre sus estimaciones de masa magra (MM) y masa grasa (MG) en comparación con el método de absorciometría de rayos X de energía dual (DEXA) en un subgrupo de pacientes sin sobrecarga de volumen. Métodos: se realizó un estudio transversal en pacientes con enfermedad renal crónica avanzada (ERCA) en hemodiálisis (HD) con edades entre los 18 a 65 años. La IBE se midió con cuatro diferentes tecnologías: espectroscópica (IBE-BIS), multifrecuencia (IBE-MF), una sola frecuencia (IBE-SF) y multifrecuencia segmental (IBE-MS). Se analizaron las diferencias y concordancias entre los componentes de la IBE (resistencia, reactancia y ángulo de fase) de los cuatro analizadores. Se identificaron pacientes con estado de hidratación normal, y solo en ellos se evaluó la concordancia de FFM y FM entre cada analizador de impedancia y DEXA. Resultados: se incluyeron 30 pacientes. La concordancia entre los componentes del IBE varió de buena a excelente (ángulo de fase: coeficiente de correlación intraclase (ICC) = 0,82, IC del 95 %: 0,77-0,93; resistencia: ICC = 0,98, IC del 95 %: 0,92-0,99). La concordancia general en el diagnóstico de BIVA entre los analizadores fue substancial para la hidratación (k = 0,71, IC del 95 %: 0,71-0,72) y los tejidos corporales (k = 0,68, IC del 95 %: 0,67-0,68). Los gráficos de Bland-Altman mostraron un sesgo más bajo entre BIA-BIS y DEXA tanto para FM como para FFM. Conclusiones: la concordancia entre el diagnóstico por BIVA, entre los cuatro dispositivos, fue sunstancial. El analizador BIA-BIS y DEXA mostraron los sesgos más bajos, tanto para FFM como para FM, aunque con límites de concordancia más altos. Los límites más bajos de concordancia se encontraron con el analizador BIA-MS.

Hydration status according to impedance vectors and its association with clinical and biochemical outcomes and mortality in patients with chronic kidney disease.

Introduction: Background: the evaluation of hydration status and body composition in patients with kidney disease is vital for proper management, since overhydration is associated with cardiovascular complications. Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) begin to show perceptible alterations in hydration during the intermediate stages of the disease; however, there is little information regarding the evaluation of blood volume status through bioelectrical impedance vector analysis (BIVA) in this population. Objective: to determine the association between hydration status measured with BIVA and biochemical and clinical parameters and mortality in patients with stage G3a, G3b and G4 CKD. Material and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with patients with stage G3a, G3b and G4 CKD who underwent bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA). The following biochemical and clinical parameters were determined: serum and urinary albumin, hematocrit, serum electrolytes and creatinine, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR, using the CKD-EPI formula), 24-hour urine output and blood pressure. The clinical and biochemical variables were associated with the components of the BIA. According to the resistance/height (R/H) and reactance/height (Xc/H) values, the BIVA results were individually plotted on reference ellipses to identify patients with abnormal hydration states. The patients were classified by group according to hydration status and CKD stage z-scores, and differences in clinical, biochemical and BIA parameters were identified. Mortality was determined by hydration status. Results: a total of 138 subjects, 69 men and 69 women, were studied. An association was found between the BIVA components (R/H, Xc/H and phase angle (PA) and serum albumin (albumin and R/H, r = -0.38, p = 0.001; Xc, r = 0.59, p = 0.000; PA, r = 0.58, p ≤ 0.0010). When the biochemical and clinical parameters were compared by hydration status, significant differences were found in eGFR (p = 0.01), serum calcium (p ≤ 0.001), serum albumin (p ≤ 0.001), hemoglobin (p = 0.04), hematocrit, (p = 0.04) and mean arterial pressure (p = 0.03). The patients were followed for a median of 65.5 months (IQR: 53.0 to 207.0), and 12 (8.6 %) patients with CKD died. The Kaplan-Meier curves showed that patients with overhydration had a significantly higher risk of death than patients with normal hydration. Conclusions: there is an association between the hydration status evaluated by BIVA and clinical and biochemical variables. Patients with overhydration are significantly more likely to die than patients with normal hydration.

Introducción: Antecedentes: la evaluación del estado de hidratación y la composición corporal es imprescindible para los pacientes con enfermedad renal crónica en estadios intermedios, ya que en esta etapa inician con alteraciones hídricas perceptibles; sin embargo, existe poca información en dicha población sobre la evaluación del estado de volemia mediante el análisis de vectores de bioimpedancia eléctrica. Objetivo: asociar el estado de hidratación medido por BIVA con parámetros bioquímicos, clínicos y mortalidad en pacientes con ERC G3a G3b y G4 Material y métodos: estudio transversal en el cual se incluyó a pacientes con ERC en estadios G3a G3b y G4 a los que se les realizó un análisis de impedancia bioeléctrica y en los que se determinaron parámetros bioquímicos y clínicos. Las variables clínicas y bioquímicas se asociaron con los componentes de la IBE. Los valores de resistencia/estatura (R/H) y reactancia/estatura se graficaron individualmente sobre las elipses de referencia para identificar a pacientes con estados de hidratación anormales. Se ubicaron grupos según el estado de hidratación y estadio de ERC en z-score y se identificaron las diferencias de parámetros clínicos, bioquímicos y de IBE. Se determinó la mortalidad según el estado de hidratación. Resultados: se estudiaron 138 sujetos 69 hombres y 69 mujeres. Se encontró una asociación entre los componentes de los BIVA y albúmina sérica (albúmina y R/H, r = -0,38, p = 0,001; Xc, r = 0,59, p = 0,000; ángulo de fase, r = 0,58, p ≤ 0,00110). Al comparar los parámetros bioquímicos y clínicos por estado de hidratación se encontraron diferencias significativas en TFGe (p = 0,01), calcio sérico (p ≤ 0,001), albúmina sérica (p ≤ 0.001), hemoglobina (p = 0,04), hematocrito (p = 0.04) y presión arterial media (p = 0.03). Se identificó el fallecimiento de 12 (8,6 %) pacientes con ERC, con una mediana de seguimiento de 65,5 meses (RIC: 53,0 a 207,0). Las curvas de Kaplan-Meier mostraron que los pacientes con sobrehidratación tenían significativamente mayor riesgo de morir que los pacientes con normohidratación. Conclusiones: existe asociación entre el estado de hidratación evaluado por BIVA y variables clínicas y bioquímicas. Los pacientes con sobre hidratación son significativamente más propensos a morir que los pacientes con normohidratación.

Geographical distribution of Leishmania species in Colombia, 1985-2017. / Distribución geográfica de las especies de Leishmania en Colombia, 1985-2017

INTRODUCTION: Knowledge of the geographical distribution of Leishmania species allows guiding the sampling to little-studied areas and implementing strategies to define risk zones and priority areas for control. OBJECTIVE: Given that there is no publication that collects this information, the search, review, and compilation of the available scientific literature that has identified species in Colombia is presented in this paper. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A bibliographic search was performed in PubMed, Web of Knowledge, Google Scholar, SciELO and LILACS with the terms "(Leishmania OR Leishmaniasis) AND species AND Colombia", without restrictions on publication year, language or infected organism; records of national scientific events and repositories of theses from Colombian universities were also included. RESULTS: Eighty-six scientific documents published between 1985 and 2017 were found in which the species of Leishmania and their geographical origin were indicated. The species reported, in descending order of frequency, were: Leishmania (Viannia) panamensis, L. (V.) braziliensis, L. (V.) guyanensis, L. (Leishmania) infantum, L. (L.) amazonensis, L. (L.) mexicana, L. (V.) colombiensis, L. (V.) lainsoni and L. (V.) equatorensis; the last three were found with the same frequency. Leishmania species were reported from 29 departments. CONCLUSION: Information on the distribution of Leishmania species in Colombia is limited; therefore, it is necessary to gather existing data and propose studies that consolidate the distribution maps of Leishmania species in Colombia. This would allow the detection of areas where species have not been identified as well as the comparison of existing parasite and vector distributions.

Introducción. El conocimiento de la distribución geográfica de las especies de Leishmania permite orientar el muestreo hacia áreas poco estudiadas e implementar estrategias para detectar zonas de riesgo y áreas prioritarias de control. Objetivo. Dado que no existe una publicación que reúna esta información, se planteó la revisión y compilación de la literatura científica disponible de estudios de identificación de especies del país. Materiales y métodos. Se llevó a cabo una búsqueda bibliográfica en PubMed, Web of Knowledge, Google Académico, SciELO y Lilacs con los términos "(Leishmania OR Leishmaniasis) AND especie AND Colombia", así como en memorias de eventos científicos nacionales y repositorios de tesis y trabajos de grado de universidades del país. Resultados. Se encontraron 86 documentos científicos publicados entre 1985 y 2017, en los cuales se informaron la especie de Leishmania y el origen geográfico. Las especies circulantes reportadas, en su orden de frecuencia, fueron: Leishmania (Viannia) panamensis, L. (V.) braziliensis, L. (V.) guyanensis, L. (Leishmania) infantum, L. (L.) amazonensis, L. (L.) mexicana, L. (V.) colombiensis, L. (V.) lainsoni y L. (V.) equatorensis, las últimas tres, con igual frecuencia. Los reportes proceden de 29 departamentos. Conclusión. La información de la distribución de las especies de Leishmania en Colombia es limitada. Por lo tanto, se necesita reunir los datos existentes y plantear trabajos que permitan consolidar el mapa de distribución de las especies en el país, lo cual permitiría detectar las zonas sin información de las especies circulantes y establecer la concordancia entre su distribución y la de los vectores.

Un caso de Chagas agudo en edad pediátrica / Acute Vector-transmitted Chagas in Pediatric Age. A Case Reportt

Presentación del caso. Se trata una niña de siete años de edad, originaria de una zona rural del departamento de San Miguel, quién consultó por presentar fiebre y edema bipalpebral derecho indoloro, de seis semanas de evolución, sin otros síntomas acompañantes. El estudio para el diagnóstico de enfermedad de Chagas fue realizado en una clínica privada; la Inmunoglobulina M para Chagas tuvo un resultado positivo, luego, se realizó la microscopía directa mediante gota al fresco y técnica de Strout con resultado negativo. En las intervenciones comunitarias se identificó la presencia del vector y la positividad del mismo, así como el diagnóstico de un caso crónico en otro miembro de la familia. Intervención terapéutica. Se indicó tratamiento con nifurtimox 150 mg cada ocho horas por 60 días y se realizó el seguimiento clínico de la evolución y control de efectos secundarios del tratamiento y exámenes de laboratorio. Evolución clínica. Evolucionó con leve disminución del apetito, se manejó con protectores gástricos. El concentrado de Strout y la gota al fresco resultaron negativos y los demás exámenes de laboratorio se mantenían en los rangos normales.

Case presentation. A seven-year-old female patient, with no previous medical history, originally from a rural area of the department of San Miguel, who presented febrile process plus long-term right bipalpebral edema of six weeks of evolution, without accompanying symptoms. Immunoglobulin M for Chagas was positive, direct microscopy by fresh drop and Strout technique was performed with negative results. In community interventions, the presence of the vector and its positivity were identified, as well as the diagnosis of a chronic case in another family member. Treatment. The patient was treated with nifurtimox 150 mg every eight hours for 60 days, subsequent controls were performed to investigate side effects of the treatment, and control tests. Outcome. With the treatment, the patient evolved with a slight decrease in appetite, and was managed with gastric protectors. Strout's concentrate and fresh gout were negative and the other laboratory tests were within normal ranges.

Estudio observacional de las características clínicas, epidemiológicas y de laboratorio en pacientes pediátricos con dengue de la ciudad de Córdoba / Observational study of clinical, epidemiological, and laboratory characteristics of pediatric patients with dengue in the city of Córdoba

Introducción. El dengue es la enfermedad transmitida por mosquitos con mayor propagación mundial en los últimos años. Presenta un amplio espectro de manifestaciones clínicas y, en ocasiones, evoluciona a un estado crítico llamado dengue grave. Su tratamiento es de sostén. La información disponible acerca de las características clínicas, epidemiológicas y de laboratorio de la enfermedad en la población pediátrica es limitada. Objetivo. Describir la epidemiología y las manifestaciones clínicas y de laboratorio de la enfermedad. Población y métodos. Estudio descriptivo, observacional y retrospectivo. Incluyó pacientes entre 1 y 180 meses asistidos por dengue probable o confirmado en un hospital de niños, desde el 01 de enero de 2020 hasta el 31 de mayo de 2020. Resultados. Se incluyeron 85 pacientes por criterios microbiológicos de positividad o clínicoepidemiológicos. Veinticinco (29 %) confirmados por RT-PCR, todos serotipos DENV-1. La mediana de  edad fue de 108 meses (rango intercuartílico: 84-144). Las principales manifestaciones clínicas fueron fiebre, cefalea y mialgias. Los hallazgos de laboratorio más importantes fueron leucopenia, trombocitopenia y elevación de transaminasas. Conclusión. El reconocimiento y la comprensión de las alteraciones clínicas y de laboratorio que se presentan durante la enfermedad pueden permitir un abordaje eficaz y contribuir a la reducción de cuadros clínicos más graves en los niños.

Introduction. Dengue has been the most widespread mosquito-borne disease worldwide in recent years. It develops with a broad spectrum of clinical manifestations and sometimes progresses to a critical condition known as severe dengue. It is managed with supportive treatment. Available information about its clinical, epidemiological, and laboratory characteristics in the pediatric population is limited. Objective. To describe the clinical, epidemiological, and laboratory characteristics of dengue. Population and methods. Descriptive, observational, and retrospective study. It included patients aged 1 to 180 months seen due to probable or confirmed dengue at a children's hospital between 1/1/2020 and 5/31/2020. Results. A total of 85 patients with positive microbiological or clinical-epidemiological criteria were included. Of these, 25 (29%) were confirmed by RT-PCR; all corresponded to DENV-1 serotype. Patients' median age was 108 months (interquartile range: 84­144). The main clinical manifestations were fever, headache, and myalgia. The most important laboratory findings were leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, and high transaminase levels. Conclusion. The recognition and understanding of clinical and laboratory alterations that occur during dengue disease may allow an effective approach and help to reduce the more severe clinical form in children.

Caso importado de malaria por Plasmodium vivax en El Salvador. Un abordaje epidemiológico / Imported Case of Malaria by Plasmodium vivax in El Salvador. An Epidemiological Approach

Presentación del caso. Paciente masculino de origen guatemalteco con historia de fiebre alta de tipo intermitente, mialgias, artralgias, debilidad generalizada, mareo y vómito de contenido gástrico. Fue tratado inicialmente en un hospital privado con diagnóstico de síndrome febril agudo y referido a un hospital de la red nacional con diagnóstico de dengue con signos de alarma, al tercer día de estancia hospitalaria se diagnostica como un caso de malaria importado por Plasmodium vivax. Intervención terapéutica. Se le dio tratamiento antimalárico con cloroquina y primaquina. Evolución clínica. Presentó mejoría clínica y las pruebas de laboratorio de control reportaron resultados negativos para Plasmodium vivax

Case presentation. Male patient of Guatemalan origin with history of intermittent high fever, myalgia, arthralgia, generalized weakness, dizziness, and vomiting of gastric contents. He was initially treated in a private hospital with a diagnosis of acute febrile illness and referred to a national network hospital with a diagnosis of dengue with warning signs. On the third day of hospital stay a diagnosis of an imported malaria case by Plasmodium vivax was presented. Treatment. The patient was given antimalarial treatment consisting of chloroquine and primaquine. Outcome. The patient presented clinical improvement, and control laboratory tests were negative for Plasmodium vivax.

Software educativo para la asignatura Estratificación de Riesgos Medioambientales / Educational software for the subject Stratification of Environmental Risks

Se realizó una investigación relacionada con la innovación tecnológica, en la Facultad de Enfermería-Tecnología de la Salud de Santiago de Cuba, durante el curso escolar 2019-2020, con el objetivo de diseñar un software educativo para la asignatura Estratificación de Riesgos Medioambientales, dirigido a los estudiantes de técnico medio en Vigilancia y Lucha Antivectorial. Se utilizaron los métodos teóricos: análisis-síntesis, histórico-lógico, modelación, sistémico-estructural e inductivo-deductivo; y empíricos: observación y análisis documental. La muestra fue de 44 estudiantes y 6 profesores escogidos al azar. Se concluye que el software propuesto es factible, pertinente y necesario como medio de enseñanza; proporciona información actualizada, su navegación es fácil y amena, y permite la autoevaluación de los estudiantes al interactuar con él mismo, lo que contribuye a mejorar el trabajo independiente.

An investigation related to the technological innovation was carried out in the Health Nursing-Technology Faculty from Santiago de Cuba, during the school course 2019-2020, aimed at designing an educational software for the subject Stratification of Environmental Risks, directed to medium technician students in Surveillance and Vector Control. The theoretical methods used were: analysis-synthesis, historical-logical, modelation, systemic-structural and inductive-deductive; and the empiric methods were: observation and documental analysis. The sample had 44 students and 6 professors chosen at random. It was concluded that the proposed software is feasible, pertinent and necessary as teaching aid; provides up-to-date information, it is easy and interesting to surf internet, and allows the self-appraisal of students in the interaction with themselves, what contributes to improve the independent work.