Atrazine degradation through a heterogeneous dual-effect process using Fe-TiO2-allophane catalysts under sunlight.

This study investigated the novel application of Fe-TiO2-allophane catalysts with 6.0 % w/w of iron oxide and two TiO2 proportions (10 % and 30 % w/w) for degrading atrazine (ATZ) using the heterogeneous dual-effect (HDE) process under sunlight. Comparative analyses with Fe-allophane and TiO2-allophane catalysts were conducted in both photocatalysis (PC) and HDE processes. FTIR spectra reveal the unique hydrous feldspathoids structure of allophane, showing evidence of new bond formation between Si-O groups of allophane clays and iron hydroxyl species, as well as Si-O-Ti bonds that intensified with higher TiO2 content. The catalysts exhibited an anatase structure. In Fe-TiO2-allophane catalysts, iron oxide was incorporated through the substitution of Ti4+ by Fe3+ in the anatase crystal lattice and precipitation on the surface of allophane clays, forming small iron oxide particles. Allophane clays reduced the agglomeration and particle size of TiO2, resulting in an enhanced specific surface area and pore volume for all catalysts. Iron oxide incorporation decreased the band gap, broadening the photoresponse to visible light. In the PC process, TiO2-allophane achieves 90 % ATZ degradation, attributed to radical species from the UV component of sunlight. In the HDE process, Fe-TiO2-allophane catalysts exhibit synergistic effects, particularly with 30 % w/w TiO2, achieving 100 % ATZ degradation and 85 % COD removal, with shorter reaction time as TiO2 percentage increased. The HDE process was performed under less acidic conditions, achieving complete ATZ degradation after 6 h without iron leaching. Consequently, Fe-TiO2-allophane catalysts are proposed as a promising alternative for degrading emerging pollutants under environmentally friendly conditions.

Percepción del riesgo de infección por COVID 19 en procedimientos oftalmológicos / Perceived risk of COVID-19 infection in ophthalmic procedures

Objetivo: Determinar la percepción del nivel de riesgo de infección por COVID19 en la realización de procedimientos oftalmológicos. Métodos: Se encuestaron 70 profesionales de Oftalmología de la provincia Holguín, Cuba. Se aplicó un cuestionario con preguntas tipo Likert (escala 1 al 5) para evaluar 26 procedimientos oftalmológicos. Resultados: Los encuestados (edad media 40,5 ± 2,6 años; tiempo promedio en Oftalmología 13,0 ± 2,6 años; sexo femenino 75,7 por ciento) incluyeron 45 especialistas (64,3 por ciento), 18 residentes (25,7 por ciento) y 7 optometristas (10,0 por ciento). La evaluación promedio del riesgo de infección por COVID-19 atribuida a los procedimientos oftalmológicos fue de 3,63 ± 0,14, significativamente mayor que el valor central de la escala (p<0,0001). No se encontró relación significativa entre la evaluación y las variables edad (p=0,80), sexo (p=0,24), tiempo vinculado a la Oftalmología (p=0,98) y categoría asistencial (p=0,08). El procedimiento considerado de mayor riesgo fue la oftalmoscopía directa (p<0,001); y los de menor riesgo: test de Ishihara, y campo visual (octopus y pantalla tangente). Conclusiones: Los procedimientos oftalmológicos son considerados de alto riesgo de infección por COVID-19. Aquellos que requieren de mayor cercanía, contacto con la superficie ocular y lágrimas se consideraron de mayor riesgo, en primer lugar la oftalmoscopía directa. No existe adecuada percepción del riesgo que implica la tonometría de aire. Se consideraron menos riesgosos los que permiten evitar el contacto directo y mantener el distanciamiento(AU)

Objective: To determine the perception of the level of risk of infection by COVID-19 in the performance of ophthalmologic procedures. Methods: Seventy ophthalmology professionals from Holguin province, Cuba were surveyed. A questionnaire with Likert-type questions (scale 1 to 5) was applied to evaluate 26 ophthalmologic procedures. Results: Respondents (average age 40.5 ± 2.6 years; average time in Ophthalmology 13.0 ± 2.6 years; female gender 75.7 percent) included 45 specialists (64.3 percent), 18 residents (25.7 percent) and 7 optometrists (10.0 percent). The average assessment of the risk of COVID-19 infection attributed to ophthalmologic procedures was 3.63 ± 0.14, significantly higher than the central value of the scale (p<0.0001). No significant relationship was found between the evaluation and the variables age (p=0.80), sex (p=0.24), time linked to Ophthalmology (p=0.98) and care category (p=0.08). The procedure considered to be of higher risk was direct ophthalmoscopy (p<0.001); and those of lower risk: Ishihara test, and visual field (octopus and tangent screen). Conclusions: Ophthalmologic procedures are considered high risk for COVID-19 infection. Those that require greater proximity, contact with the ocular surface and tears were considered to be of higher risk, firstly direct ophthalmoscopy. There is no adequate perception of the risk involved in air tonometry. Those that avoid direct contact and maintain distance were considered less risky(AU)

Construction and validation of scale factors and attitudes associated with parenting of children with high-risk birth.

BACKGROUND: High-risk birth is a public health problem that generates atypical parenting practices. This study aimed to identify these practices to construct and validate a scale to measure parenting factors and attitudes in children with high-risk birth parents. METHODS: The instrument was applied to an intentional non-probabilistic sample of 701 parents of children with high-risk births (age range 17-64 years). The scale consists of 56 items, each with five Likert-type response options. RESULTS: As a result of the factor analysis with Varimax rotation, the final version was divided into two subscales: factors and attitudes associated with parenting skills. In the first, with 36 items and six factors (low educational skills, overprotection, and permissive parenting, dissatisfaction with the parental role, stress in raising a child with a high-risk birth, tri-generational disapproval of the parental role, and positive support from the extended family), a Cronbach's alpha value of 0.90 was obtained, explaining 53.16 of the variance. In the second subscale, with 30 items grouped in four factors (parenting beliefs, negative coping with high-risk birth, self-validation in parenting, and parental resilience to the experience of high-risk birth parenting), a Cronbach's alpha of 0.82 was obtained, explaining 48.08 of the variance. CONCLUSIONS: We suggest that this scale be applied together with others that measure theoretically related variables.

INTRODUCCIÓN: El nacimiento de alto riesgo es un problema de salud pública que genera prácticas de crianza atípicas. El objetivo de este estudio fue identificar estas prácticas para construir y validar una escala para medir factores y actitudes de la crianza en los padres de niños con nacimiento de alto riesgo. MÉTODOS: La escala consta de 56 reactivos con cinco opciones de respuesta tipo Likert. El instrumento se aplicó a una muestra no probabilística de 701 padres de niños con nacimiento de alto riesgo (rango de edad: 17-64 años). RESULTADOS: Como resultado del análisis factorial con rotación Varimax, la versión final se dividió en dos subescalas: factores y actitudes asociados con la crianza. En la primera, con 36 reactivos y seis factores (bajas habilidades educativas, sobreprotección y crianza permisiva, insatisfacción ante el rol parental ejercido, estrés ante la crianza de un niño con nacimiento de alto riesgo, desaprobación trigeneracional en el rol parental y apoyo positivo de la familia extensa), se obtuvo un valor alfa de Cronbach de 0.90, explicando el 53.16 de la varianza. En la segunda subescala, con 30 reactivos y cuatro factores (creencias ante la crianza, afrontamiento negativo ante el nacimiento de alto riesgo, autovalidación en la crianza y resiliencia parental ante la experiencia de la crianza y el nacimiento de alto riesgo), se obtuvo un valor alfa de Cronbach de 0.82, explicando el 48.08 de la varianza. CONCLUSIONES: Se sugiere la aplicación de esta escala junto con otras que midan variables teóricamente relacionadas.

Características clínicas y epidemiológicas de pacientes con la COVID-19 y trastornos quimiosensoriales

RESUMEN Introducción: Los trastornos quimiosensoriales se han identificado como síntomas típicos de la COVID-19. Objetivo: Caracterizar a pacientes con la COVID-19 y trastornos quimiosensoriales referidos. Métodos: Se incluyeron 152 pacientes hospitalizados, positivos a la COVID-19, con trastornos quimiosensoriales referidos. Se estudiaron variables clínicas y epidemiológicas, marcadores de inflamación, radiografía de tórax y tratamiento empleado. Resultados: La edad promedio fue 40,2 años, el sexo femenino 59,2 % y predominó el antecedente, contacto de caso confirmado (62,5 %), con anosmia (95,7 %), ageusia (93,3 %), sin comorbilidades (53,3 %) y ausencia de síntomas acompañantes (36,8 %). En pacientes con fuente de infección indeterminada, la confirmación fue tardía (3,89 días); no hubo diferencias significativas entre quienes presentaron uno o ambos trastornos (p= 0,053), ni entre quienes presentaron o no síntomas asociados (p= 0,14). En el 2 % el índice de neutrófilos fue mayor de 4; el 3,3 % presentó conteo absoluto de linfocitos inferior a 1500 x 109/L y el 68,4 % no mostró alteración radiológica. Requirió antimicrobianos el 5,9 % e inmunomoduladores, el 5,3 %; el 1,3 % ingresó en cuidados intensivos. La mayoría (95,4 %) egresó de alta clínica y el 1,3 % falleció. Conclusiones: Predomina el sexo femenino, con ageusia o anosmia; quienes no tienen el antecedente epidemiológico, se diagnostican con dilación. No hay diferencias al buscar atención, por uno o ambos trastornos, ni por síntomas acompañantes. Los trastornos quimiosensoriales se refieren más en ausencia de complicaciones y cuadros graves. Quienes los refieren espontáneamente, son generalmente personas saludables y oligosintomáticas.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Chemosensory disorders have been identified as typical symptoms of COVID-19. Objective: To characterize patients with COVID-19 and referred chemosensory disorders. Methods: One hundred and fifty-two hospitalized patients, positive for COVID-19, with referred chemosensory disorders were included. Clinical and epidemiological variables, inflammation markers, chest X-ray and treatment used were studied. Results: The average age was 40.2 years, the female sex 59.2%. The antecedent of confirmed case contact (62.5 %), anosmia (95.7 %), ageusia (93.3 %), and the absence of comorbidities (53.3 %) and accompanying symptoms (36.8 %), prevailed. In patients with an indeterminate source of infection, confirmation was late (3.89 days); there were no significant differences between those who presented one or both disorders (p = 0.053), nor between those who did or did not present associated symptoms (p = 0.14). In 2 % the neutrophil index was greater than 4; 3.3 % had an absolute lymphocyte count lower than 1500x106/L and 68.4 % did not show radiological alteration. Antimicrobials were required in 5.9 % and immunomodulators in 5.3 %; 1.3 % were admitted to intensive care. Most (95.4 %) were discharged from the clinic and 1.3 % died. Conclusions: The female sex predominates, with ageusia or anosmia; those who do not have an epidemiological background are diagnosed with delay. There are no differences in seeking care, for one or both disorders, or for accompanying symptoms. Chemosensory disorders are more referred in the absence of complications and severe disease. Those who refer them spontaneously are generally healthy and oligosymptomatic people.

Endonasal FLI Approach for Rhinoplasty with Modified Cottle Low Strip Septoplasty.

To date, an endonasal approach has not been described that combines different incisions to provide exposure of all of the key anatomical structures, allowing for adequate, comprehensive visualization of the nasal architecture including the complete quadrangular cartilage and its extension with the upper lateral cartilages, including the caudal septal border from the ventral border and anterior nasal spine to the anterior septal angle, the scroll, and internal nasal valve.The endonasal approach that Fausto Lopez-Infante designed, the FLI technique, combines several basic known endonasal incisions that together allow excellent access and great visualization of the intranasal surgical field, enables extensive septal work, and preserves the natural anatomy of the dorsum as well as the tip support structures.This technique and approach to nasal surgery are based on an understanding of anatomy, allow standardization of the surgery, and make it reproducible. It is an outstanding option with excellent cosmetic and functional results.

Influence of physicochemical factors on environmental availability and distribution of semiochemicals that affect Varroa destructor and phylogenetically close organisms: classification by VHWOC PCA-clustering.

Varroa destructor parasites Apis mellifera larvae following the interception of the semiochemicals involved in bee communication; thus, the semiochemical availability and distribution pathways take place within different physicochemical environments. The structure of 172 molecules with semiochemical activity on Varroa destructor was used to compute the representative physicochemical descriptors of the thermodynamic partition among different physicochemical environments: vapor pressure (V), Henry's coefficient (H), water solubility constant (W), octanol-water partition coefficient (O) and organic carbon partition coefficient (C); VHWOC. The principal component analysis (PCA) and hierarchical clustering of VHWOC descriptors allowed us to establish the trend in availability and distribution of the semiochemicals resulting in a 4 classes model of physicochemical environments: Class 1, Soluble/Volatile; Class 2, Soluble; Class 3, Contact; Class 4, Adsorbed/Volatile. Our results suggest that semiochemicals can transit between different thermodynamic equilibrium phases depending on environment conditions. The classification prediction of the model was tested on 6 new molecules obtained from ketonic extracts of L5 Apis mellifera drone larvae; locating them in class 4, which was consistent with their molecular structure. This study can be the starting point for the design of synthetic semiochemicals or for the control of Varroa destructor. In addition, the method can be used in the analysis of other semiochemical groups.

Especies rickettsiales en casos humanos con síndrome febril agudo inespecífico en Perú / Rickettsial species in human cases with non-specific acute febrile syndrome in Peru

RESUMEN Con el objetivo de caracterizar molecularmente aislamientos rickettsiales procedentes de humanos con síndrome febril agudo inespecífico se realizó un estudio descriptivo transversal, con aislamientos propagados en cultivos celulares Vero ATCC y líneas alternativas, verificando viabilidad mediante Inmunofluoresencia Indirecta (IFI). Previa extracción del ADN, se amplificó el gen gltA mediante PCR convencional, y se analizó su secuencia. Doce aislamientos fueron amplificados, cinco con suficiente ADN para secuenciarlos, evidenciando compatibilidad con R. asembonensis en cuatro, y estrecha identidad con Coxiella burnetti en uno. Al menos tres de siete líneas celulares alternativas mostraron rendimiento significativo en sub cultivos. Se identificó R. asembonensis en cuatro aislamientos de humanos con síndrome febril agudo inespecífico, procedentes de las regiones de Ayacucho, Cajamarca y Madre de Dios en Perú, y Coxiella burnetti en uno procedente de la región Loreto.

ABSTRACT With the objective of molecularly characterizing rickettsial isolates from humans with non-specific acute febrile syndrome, a cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted, with isolates propagated in Vero ATCC cellular cultures and alternative lines, verifying the viability by means of Indirect Immunofluorescence. Prior to DNA extraction, the gltA gene was amplified by means of conventional PCR, and its sequence was analyzed. Twelve isolates were amplified, five with sufficient DNA so as to sequence them, exhibiting compatibility with R. asembonensis in four, and a close identity with Coxiella burnetti in one. At least three of seven alternative cellular lines showed significant yield in sub-cultures. R. asembonensis was identified in four isolates of humans with non-specific acute febrile syndrome, coming from the regions of Ayacucho, Cajamarca, and Madre de Dios in Peru, and Coxiella burnetti in one coming from the Loreto region.

Políticas e intervenciones para reducir lesiones por accidentes de tránsito: de la evidencia a la práctica / Policies and interventions to reduce injuries due to traffic accidents: From evidence to practice

Este artículo presenta intervenciones para prevenir la mortalidad y lesiones por accidentes de tránsito (AT), desde la evidencia científica y perspectiva de los actores involucrados. Para ello se realizó una búsqueda sistemática, se organizó un resumen de políticas con participación de actores clave para finalmente realizar un dialogo deliberativo con representantes técnicos de las diversas instituciones relacionadas con el abordaje del problema propuesto. Describe las intervenciones relacionadas a educación, infraestructura vial, asistencia pre-hospitalaria, normatividad y fiscalización que fueron insumo para la contextualización a nuestro medio local. Los representantes técnicos multisectoriales aportaron consideraciones para su implementación, los potenciales beneficios o daños, el uso de recursos, adaptaciones necesarias, posibles barreras y facilitadores para su abordaje. Presenta el rol canalizador que desarrolló el Instituto Nacional de Salud para colaborar en la transferencia de la evidencia a la práctica. Asimismo, plantea necesidades de investigación, que requieren ser abordados en las intervenciones integrales de seguridad vial.

This article presents interventions to prevent mortality and injuries from traffic accidents (TA), from the scientific evidence and perspective of the actors involved. For this purpose, a systematic search was carried out, a policy summary was organized with the participation of key actors to finally carry out a deliberative dialogue with technical representatives of the various institutions related to the approach of the proposed problem. Describe evidence-based interventions related to education, integral infrastructure, pre-hospital assistance, regulations and control that were deliberate and contextualized to our local environment. The multi-sector technical representatives contributed considerations for its implementation, the potential benefits or damages, the use of resources, necessary adaptations, possible barriers and facilitators for its approach. It presents the channeling role that National Institute of Health developed to collaborate in the transfer of evidence to practice. It also raises research needs, which need to be addressed in comprehensive road safety interventions.

Nasal valve evaluation in the Mexican-Hispanic (mestizo) nose.

BACKGROUND: Our aim in this study was to determine the angle of the internal nasal valve in Mexican patients with the "mestizo nose" feature and without nasal obstructive symptoms. The work was prospective, comparative, and observational in nature and included patients >14 years of age who were seen in the Otolaryngology Department at the Los Angeles Lomas Hospital between April and May 2016. METHODS: The angle of the internal nasal valve was measured in 30 patients without obstructive symptoms. Endoscopic examination was performed with a 0° endoscope framed with tape at a 13-mm distance from the endoscope's tip, and digital photographs of the internal nasal valve were taken. The measurement of the angle of the internal nasal valve was made in sexagesimal degrees using Golden Ratio v3.1 (2012) software. Statistical analysis was performed using Excel v15.13.3. RESULTS: The angles of the internal nasal valve of the patients were (mean ± standard deviation) 24.07 ± 4.8° for the right nasal cavity and 25.07 ± 5.0° for the left nasal cavity, wider than the angle reported in the normal Caucasian nose established in the literature. CONCLUSIONS: According to our results, the Mexican-Hispanic mestizo nose has a wider angle in the internal nasal valve than that considered normal in the literature (10°-15°). We believe it is necessary to undertake a second study and add an airflow resistance measurement with a rhinomanometry procedure so we can compare the results with those in the Caucasian population.

[Rickettsial species in human cases with non-specific acute febrile syndrome in Peru]. / Especies rickettsiales en casos humanos con síndrome febril agudo inespecífico en Perú.

With the objective of molecularly characterizing rickettsial isolates from humans with non-specific acute febrile syndrome, a cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted, with isolates propagated in Vero ATCC cellular cultures and alternative lines, verifying the viability by means of Indirect Immunofluorescence. Prior to DNA extraction, the gltA gene was amplified by means of conventional PCR, and its sequence was analyzed. Twelve isolates were amplified, five with sufficient DNA so as to sequence them, exhibiting compatibility with R. asembonensis in four, and a close identity with Coxiella burnetti in one. At least three of seven alternative cellular lines showed significant yield in sub-cultures. R. asembonensis was identified in four isolates of humans with non-specific acute febrile syndrome, coming from the regions of Ayacucho, Cajamarca, and Madre de Dios in Peru, and Coxiella burnetti in one coming from the Loreto region.

Con el objetivo de caracterizar molecularmente aislamientos rickettsiales procedentes de humanos con síndrome febril agudo inespecífico se realizó un estudio descriptivo transversal, con aislamientos propagados en cultivos celulares Vero ATCC y líneas alternativas, verificando viabilidad mediante Inmunofluoresencia Indirecta (IFI). Previa extracción del ADN, se amplificó el gen gltA mediante PCR convencional, y se analizó su secuencia. Doce aislamientos fueron amplificados, cinco con suficiente ADN para secuenciarlos, evidenciando compatibilidad con R. asembonensis en cuatro, y estrecha identidad con Coxiella burnetti en uno. Al menos tres de siete líneas celulares alternativas mostraron rendimiento significativo en sub cultivos. Se identificó R. asembonensis en cuatro aislamientos de humanos con síndrome febril agudo inespecífico, procedentes de las regiones de Ayacucho, Cajamarca y Madre de Dios en Perú, y Coxiella burnetti en uno procedente de la región Loreto.

[Prevalence of antibodies to rickettsias and ehrlichias in four border departments of Peru]. / Prevalencia de anticuerpos a rickettsias y ehrlichias en cuatro departamentos fronterizos del Perú.

To determine the prevalence of antibodies to Rickettsia and Ehrlichia, related to recent and past contact, in the border towns of the departments Loreto, Madre de Dios, Tumbes and Tacna, during the years 2010 and 2011, surveys for serological evaluation were carried out using the indirect immunofluorescence assay (IIF), in order to detect immunoglobulins G (IgG) and Total immunoglobulins (IgA + IgM + IgG) in 1634 persons. A recent contact prevalence was found for Ehrlichia of 3.7% (CI 95%: 3.0-4.4) and for Rickettsia of 10.6% (CI 95%: 9.1-12.1), and past contact for Ehrlichia of 19.0% (CI 95%: 17.1-21.0) and for Rickettsia of 23.3% (CI 95%: 21.2-25.3). It is concluded that there is a higher prevalence for past contact or infection in the population studied, both for Rickettsia and Ehrlichia, which would indicate an endemic behavior to both infectious agents in the geographic areas mentioned.

Para determinar la prevalencia de anticuerpos a Rickettsia y Ehrlichia, relacionada a contacto reciente y pasado, en localidades fronterizas de los departamentos Loreto, Madre de Dios, Tumbes y Tacna, durante los años 2010 y 2011, se llevaron a cabo encuestas para evaluación serológica empleando el ensayo de inmunofluorescencia indirecta (IFI), a fin de detectar inmunoglobulinas G (IgG) e inmunoglobulinas totales (IgA+IgM+IgG) en 1634 personas. Se encontró una prevalencia de contacto reciente para Ehrlichia de 3,7% (IC95%: 3,0-4,4) y para Rickettsia de 10,6% (IC95%: 9,1-12,1), y de contacto pasado para Ehrlichia de 19,0% (IC95%: 17,1-21,0) y para Rickettsia de 23,3% (IC95: 21,2-25,3). Se concluye, que existe una mayor prevalencia para contacto o infección pasada en la población estudiada, tanto para Rickettsia como para Ehrlichia, lo cual nos estaría indicando un comportamiento endémico de ambos agentes infecciosos en las áreas geográficas mencionadas.

Prevalencia de anticuerpos a Rickettsias y Ehrlichias en cuatro departamentos fronterizos del Perú / Prevalence of antibodies to Rickettsias and Ehrlichias in four border departments of Peru

Para determinar la prevalencia de anticuerpos a Rickettsia y Ehrlichia, relacionada a contacto reciente y pasado, en localidades fronterizas de los departamentos Loreto, Madre de Dios, Tumbes y Tacna, durante los años 2010 y 2011, se llevaron a cabo encuestas para evaluación serológica empleando el ensayo de inmunofluorescencia indirecta (IFI), a fin de detectar inmunoglobulinas G (IgG) e inmunoglobulinas totales (IgA+IgM+IgG) en 1634 personas. Se encontró una prevalencia de contacto reciente para Ehrlichia de 3,7% (IC95%: 3,0-4,4) y para Rickettsia de 10,6% (IC95%: 9,112,1), y de contacto pasado para Ehrlichia de 19,0% (IC95%: 17,1-21,0) y para Rickettsia de 23,3% (IC95: 21,2-25,3). Se concluye, que existe una mayor prevalencia para contacto o infección pasada en la población estudiada, tanto para Rickettsia como para Ehrlichia, lo cual nos estaría indicando un comportamiento endémico de ambos agentes infecciosos en las áreas geográficas mencionadas.

To determine the prevalence of antibodies to Rickettsia and Ehrlichia, related to recent and past contact, in the border towns of the departments Loreto, Madre de Dios, Tumbes and Tacna, during the years 2010 and 2011, surveys for serological evaluation were carried out using the indirect immunofluorescence assay (IIF), in order to detect immunoglobulins G (IgG) and Total immunoglobulins (IgA + IgM + IgG) in 1634 persons. A recent contact prevalence was found for Ehrlichia of 3.7% (CI 95%: 3.0-4.4) and for Rickettsia of 10.6% (CI 95%: 9.1-12.1), and past contact for Ehrlichia of 19.0% (CI 95%: 17.1-21.0) and for Rickettsia of 23.3% (CI 95%: 21.2-25.3). It is concluded that there is a higher prevalence for past contact or infection in the population studied, both for Rickettsia and Ehrlichia, which would indicate an endemic behavior to both infectious agents in the geographic areas mentioned.

[Epidemiological and molecular profile of Rickettsiosis in peruvian border locations]. / Perfil epidemiológico y molecular de Rickettsiosis en localidades de frontera peruana.

OBJECTIVES.: To determine the circulation of Rickettsia in the years 2010 and 2011 in border locations in four regions ofPeru and their clinical epidemiological and molecular characteristics. MATERIALS AND METHODS.: A cross-sectional study was carried out in Tumbes, Tacna, Madre de Dios, and Loreto. Whole blood samples were obtained from participants for culture and indirect immunofluorescence (IIF) testing. The DNA taken from leukocytes and ectoparasite cultures was used, and those genes detected for Rickettsia that were successfully amplified were sequenced and analyzed. RESULTS.: A total of 33.8% of those surveyed carried Rickettsia antibodies (21.7% in Loreto, 33.0% in Madre de Dios, 48.2% in Tacna, and 33.3% in Tumbes). Seropositivity was confirmed with IIF in over 40% of isolates. Molecular tests showed the presence of Rickettsia felis in Ctenocephalides felis of dogs and cats in Tacna and a recently reported species for Latin America, Candidatus Rickettsia asemboensis, in fleas of cats and dogs in Loreto, Madre de Dios, and Tacna. Of the population studied, 81.4% reported a history of contact with ectoparasites, 22.6% were asymptomatic, and 27.8% lived in earthen-floored homes without water or drainage. CONCLUSIONS.: Serological and molecular evidence confirms the circulation of Rickettsia in the border locations studied, with predisposing epidemiological factors. Tests confirm the presence of two species, Rickettsia felis and Candidatus Rickettsia asemboensis, which represent a potential threat to the health of the inhabitants.

Perfil epidemiológico y molecular de Rickettsiosis en localidades de frontera peruana / Epidemiological and molecular profile of Rickettsiosis in peruvian border locations

RESUMEN Objetivos. Determinar circulación de rickettsias durante los años 2010 al 2011 en localidades fronterizas de cuatroregiones del Perú, y sus características clínicas epidemiológicas y moleculares. Materiales y métodos. Estudio transversal realizado en Tumbes, Tacna, Madre de Dios y Loreto. Se obtuvo datos clínicos epidemiológicos y muestras de sangre total para cultivo y para ensayo de inmunofluorescencia indirecta (IFI). Fue utilizado ADN extraído de cultivos de leucocitos y de ectoparásitos, aquellos genes específicos para rickettsias que amplificaron exitosamente fueron secuenciados y analizados. Resultados. El 33,8% de los encuestados portaba anticuerpos a rickettsias; en Loreto 21,7%, en Madre de Dios 33,0%, en Tacna 48,2% y en Tumbes 33,3%, encontrándose seropositividad en más del 40% de aislamientos confirmados por IFI. Las pruebas moleculares evidenciaron la presencia de Rickettsia felis en Ctenocephalides felis de perros y gatos de Tacna y una especie recientemente reportada para Latinoamérica: Candidatus Rickettsia asemboensis en pulgas Ctenocephalides felis de gatos y perros de Loreto y Madre de Dios. De la población estudiada, el 81,4% informó antecedentes de contacto con ectoparásitos, el 22,6% eran asintomáticos y el 27,8% habitaban viviendas sin agua ni desagüe, con piso de tierra. Conclusiones. Evidencias serológicas y moleculares confirman la circulación de rickettsias en las localidades fronterizas estudiadas, con predisponentes epidemiológicos, demostrándose presencia de dos especies: Rickettsia felis y Candidatus Rickettsia asemboensis, las que representarían una amenaza potencial para la salud de los pobladores.

ABSTRACT Objectives. To determine the circulation of Rickettsia in the years 2010 and 2011 in border locations in four regions ofPeru and their clinical epidemiological and molecular characteristics. Materials and Methods. A cross-sectional study was carried out in Tumbes, Tacna, Madre de Dios, and Loreto. Whole blood samples were obtained from participants for culture and indirect immunofluorescence (IIF) testing. The DNA taken from leukocytes and ectoparasite cultures was used, and those genes detected for Rickettsia that were successfully amplified were sequenced and analyzed. Results. A total of 33.8% of those surveyed carried Rickettsia antibodies (21.7% in Loreto, 33.0% in Madre de Dios, 48.2% in Tacna, and 33.3% in Tumbes). Seropositivity was confirmed with IIF in over 40% of isolates. Molecular tests showed the presence of Rickettsia felis in Ctenocephalides felis of dogs and cats in Tacna and a recently reported species for Latin America, Candidatus Rickettsia asemboensis, in fleas of cats and dogs in Loreto, Madre de Dios, and Tacna. Of the population studied, 81.4% reported a history of contact with ectoparasites, 22.6% were asymptomatic, and 27.8% lived in earthen-floored homes without water or drainage. Conclusions. Serological and molecular evidence confirms the circulation of Rickettsia in the border locations studied, with predisposing epidemiological factors. Tests confirm the presence of two species, Rickettsia felis and Candidatus Rickettsia asemboensis, which represent a potential threat to the health of the inhabitants.

Pioderma gangrenoso ulceroso asociado a artritis reumatoide: reporte de caso / Ulcerative pyoderma gangrenosum associated with rheumatoid arthritis: a case report

ResumenEl pioderma gangrenoso corresponde a una dermatosis crónica inflamatoria rara, cuya etiología y patogénesis es aún incierta, aunque factores inmunológicos y disfunción neutrofílica parecen desempeñar un papel importante. Se presenta en la mayoría de los casos asociada a enfermedad sistémica no infecciosa, como artritis reumatoide, malignidad hematológica y enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal (EII). Es más común en mujeres entre la tercera y quinta década de la vida y puede presentarse como cuatro variantes clínicas distintas que conllevan a ulceración de la piel, con topografía predominante a nivel de extremidades inferiores. Su diagnóstico es meramente clínico y de exclusión y el tratamiento a menudo amerita medidas locales y sistémicas.Se describe aquí el caso clínico de una paciente femenina de 38 años con pioderma gangrenoso variante ulcerativa, asociado a artritis reumatoide, quien presentó excelente evolución clínica posterior a instaurado el tratamiento esteroideo sistémico.

AbstractPyoderma gangrenosum is a rare chronic inflammatory dermatosis of unknown etiology and pathogenesis, although immunological factors and neutrophil dysfunction are believed to play an important role. In most cases it is associated with non-infectious systemic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, hematologic malignancies and inflammatory bowel disease. It is more common in women with a peak incidence between the third and fifth decades of life and it may present in four distinct clinical forms, all leading to ulceration of the skin, with involvement predominantly of the lower limbs. The diagnosis is based on the clinical manifestations and exclusion of other entities. Frequently systemic and local therapy is required.The clinical case of a 38 year old woman with ulcerative pyoderma gangrenosum associated with rheumatoid arthritis who had an excellent response to treatment with systemic steroids is described.

Reporte de segundo caso en Cuba de clorhidrorrea congénita / Report of a second congenital chloride diarrhea case in Cuba

La clorhidrorrea congénita es un raro desorden autosómico recesivo, causado por un defecto en el intercambio de cloruro/bicarbonato en el íleon y colon. En este trabajo se reporta el caso de un niño de 1 año de edad con características patognomónicas de esta condición, consistentes en antecedentes prenatales de polihidramnios, diarreas acuosas desde el nacimiento, poca ganancia de peso, alcalosis metabólica y deshidratación. El diagnóstico fue confirmado por el elevado contenido de cloruro en heces, y es el segundo caso reportado en la literatura cubana.

Congenital chloride diarrhea is a rare autosomal recessive disorder caused by a defective exchange of chloride and bicarbonate in the ileum and the colon. This article reported the case of one-year old child with pathognomonic characteristics of this disease including prenatal history of polyhydramnios, watery diarrheas since birth, low weight gain, metabolic alkalosis and dehydration. The diagnosis was confirmed on the basis of the high contents of chloride in stools. He is the second case of this disease reported in the Cuban literature.

Distribution of free-living amoebae in a treatment system of textile industrial wastewater.

Free-living amoebae have been found in soil, air and a variety of aquatic environments, but few studies have been conducted on industrial wastewater and none on wastewater from the textile industry. The aim of this study was to determine the presence and distribution of free-living amoebae in a biological treatment system that treats textile industrial wastewater. Samples were taken from input, aeration tank, sedimentation tank and output. Samples were centrifuged at 1200g for 15min, the sediment was seeded on non-nutritive agar with Enterobacter aerogenes (NNE) and the plates were incubated at 30 and 37°C. Free-living amoebae were present in all stages of the treatment system. The highest number of amoebic isolates was found in the aeration tank and no seasonal distribution was observed during the year. A total of 14 amoeba genera were isolated: Acanthamoeba, Echinamoeba, Korotnevella, Mayorella, Naegleria, Platyamoeba, Saccamoeba, Stachyamoeba, Thecamoeba, Vahlkampfia, Vannella, Vermamoeba, Vexillifera and Willaertia. The most frequently found amoebae were Acanthamoeba and Vermamoeba which were found in all treatment system stages. The constant presence and diversity of free-living amoebae in the treatment system were important findings due to the characteristics of the wastewater from the textile plant in terms of the residue content from colorants, fixers, carriers, surfactants, etc., used in fabric dyeing and finishing processes. The factors that determined the presence and distribution of amoebae in the activated sludge system were their capacity to form cysts, which allowed them to resist adverse conditions; food availability; an average temperature of 27-33°C; dissolved oxygen in average concentrations above 2mg/L, and pH in a range of 5.9-7.1.

Free-living amoebae isolated from water-hyacinth root (Eichhornia crassipes).

Free-living amoebae are widely distributed in aquatic environments and their hygienic, medical and ecological relationships to man are increasingly important. The purpose of this study was to isolate free-living amoebae from water-hyacinth root (Eichhornia crassipes) and the water of an urban lake in Mexico City. Five grams of wet root were seeded on non-nutritive agar with Enterobacter aerogenes (NNE). Water samples were concentrated by centrifugation at 1200g for 15min and the pellet was seeded on NNE. Of the 16 isolated genera, 10 were detected in both habitats. The most frequent were Vannella in root and Acanthamoeba and Naegleria in water. The total number of isolates and genera isolated from root was higher than that isolated from water. The differences between root and water are probably due to the morphological characteristics of water-hyacinth root, which provides a large habitat and refuge area for many organisms.