Abstract The objective of this study was to verify the flight radius and the influence of the climatic season and period of the day on the external activity of Melipona rufiventris bees. The forager bees were released at different distances to evaluate the flight radius. The following were considered for external activities in the four different seasons of the year (Winter, Autumn, Spring, Summer): the entry with no apparent load was considered as nectar/water, entry with defined and opaque mass in the corbicula was considered as pollen, the entry with undefined and shiny mass in the corbicula was considered as resin/clay or bee exit no load and removal of debris, mass trapped by the jaws. Assessments were performed between 6 am and 6 pm each month. M. rufiventris can reach distances of 2 500 meters, however the return decreases as the distance increases. The species performs all activities in and out of the colony during all seasons of the year and periods between 6 am and 6 pm but reduce nectar/water collection and exit from the box without apparent load and with debris between 6:00 am and 10 am in winter. It is concluded that distances greater than 1 500 meters hinder the external activity of bees which is influenced by air temperature, air humidity, time of day, season of the year and food availability.

Resumo Objetivou-se com esse estudo verificar o raio de voo e a influência da estação climática e período do dia na atividade externa das abelhas Melipona rufiventris. As abelhas forrageiras foram soltas em diferentes distâncias para avaliar o raio de voo. Para as atividades externas nas quatro diferentes estações do ano (Inverno, Outono, Primavera, Verão) foram consideradas: a entrada sem carga aparente como néctar/água, a entrada com massa definida e opaca na corbícula caracterizada como pólen, a entrada com massa indefinida e brilhante na corbícula caracterizada como resina/argila ou ainda a saída de abelha sem carga e remoção de detritos, massa presa pelas mandíbulas. As avaliações foram realizadas entre 6h e 18h de cada mês. M. rufiventris pode atingir distâncias de 2500 metros, porém o retorno diminui à medida que a distância aumenta. A espécie realiza todas as atividades dentro e fora da colônia durante todas as estações do ano e períodos entre 6h e 18h, mas reduz a coleta de néctar/água e saída caixa sem carga aparente e com detritos entre 6h e 10h no inverno. Conclui-se que distâncias superiores a 1500 metros reduzem a atividade externa das abelhas que é influenciada pela temperatura e umidade do ar, hora do dia, estação do ano e disponibilidade de alimentos.

Resumen Los datos que se recolectan en escenarios de vulnerabilidad y riesgo, en el contexto de prevención de desastres naturales, son la base para consolidar información que permite disponer de los elementos para mitigar el impacto de los aspectos naturales que generan el riesgo; en tal sentido, cuando se estructura un sistema donde se capturan, almacenan y transforman los datos asociados con variables que miden o monitorean aspectos naturales particulares, se presenta la necesidad de asegurar esos datos para optimizar la fidelidad de la información. Los resultados de la investigación que se presenta se centran en el desarrollo de un sistema de internet de las cosas (IoT, por sus siglas en inglés) para el monitoreo del riesgo climático, a través de sensores conectados de forma remota y cuyos datos se procesan para la generación de reportes estadísticos descriptivos como cálculo de la moda, media, mediana; mínimo y máximo que facilitan la comprensión de las variables monitoreadas.

Abstract The data collected in vulnerability and risk scenarios, in the context of prevention of natural disasters, are the basis for consolidating information that allows having the elements to mitigate the impact of the natural aspects that generate the risk; In this sense, when a system is structured where the data associated with variables that measure or monitor particular natural aspects are captured, stored and transformed, there is a need to secure these data to optimize the fidelity of the information. The results of the research presented are focused on the development of an Internet of Things (IoT) system for monitoring climate risk, through sensors connected remotely and whose data is processed for the generation of statistical reports. descriptive such as calculation of the mode, mean, median; minimum, and maximum that facilitate the understanding of the monitored variables.

Resumen Introducción: La pandemia COVID-19 demanda permanentes adaptaciones en la gestión según la situación epidemiológica. Objetivo: Analizar el comportamiento epidemiológico de COVID-19 en Cali (Colombia) post levantamiento de obligatoriedad de usar mascarillas en ambientes abiertos y cerrados, entre marzo 1 y julio 11/2022. Materiales y métodos: Estudio observacional descriptivo de casos de COVID-19 e incidencia acumulada (IA) para 7 días, con dos hitos temporales: desistimiento del uso mandatorio de mascarillas en ambientes abiertos y cerrados, usando datos publicados por el Instituto Nacional de Salud. Se evaluó la tendencia temporal con la prueba no paramétrica Mann-Kendall. Resultados: Se demostraron diferencias entre el primer y segundo hito: 922 casos en 75 días versus 12.037 en 59 días; Tau=-0,22 versus 0,57, S=-608 versus 968, Var(S)=47.574,66 versus 233.280,66; pendiente de Sen=-0,10 (IC95%: -0,18 y -0,03) versus 7,39 (IC95%: 5,23 y 8,88). Luego del segundo hito, la IA aumentó con tendencia positiva (S=23, p=0,006). Conclusiones: El aumento significativo de casos de COVID-19 y de IA coincidió con el levantamiento de la medida de usar mascarillas en espacios cerrados. Por tanto, se apoya el regresar al uso de mascarillas en espacios cerrados, reforzar la gestión infodémica, promover la vacunación y acrecentar la ventilación natural.

Abstract Introduction: COVID-19 pandemic requires permanent adaptations in management depending on the epidemiological situation. Objective: To analyze the epidemiological behavior of COVID-19 in Cali (Colombia) after ending the face mask mandate in open and enclosed spaces between March 1 and July 11 of 2022. Materials and methods: An observational descriptive study of COVID-19 cases and cumulative incidence (CI) for 7 days with two temporary milestones: refusal of the obligatory use of face masks in open and enclosed environments, using data published by the National Institute of Health. The temporary tendency was evaluated with the Mann-Kendall non parametric test. Results: Differences were found between the first and second milestone; 922 cases in 75 days vs. 12,037 in 59 days; Tau=-0.22 vs. 0.57, S=-608 vs. 968, Var(S)=47,574.66 versus 233,280.66; Sen slope=-0.10 (IC95%: -0.18 and -0.03) versus 7.39 (IC95%: 5.23 and 8.88). After the second milestone, the CI increased with a positive tendency (S=23, p=0.006). Conclusions: The significant increases of COVID-19 cases and the CI coincided with the ending of the face mask mandate in enclosed spaces. Therefore, it is advisable to return to the use of face masks in enclosed spaces, strengthen infodemic management, promote vaccination, and improve natural ventilation.

ABSTRACT The relationship between climate variability and the small-scale fishery (SSF) of the Albuquerque Cays was studied from 2004 to 2018. The environmental variables analyzed were: sea surface temperature (SST), wind magnitude, and chlorophyll (Chl-α). The fishery is multi-species; 410 individuals were identified, belonging to 4 orders, 15 families, and 62 species, of which 38.7% are reef, 35.5% demersal, and 25.8% pelagic. The most dominant species were Caranx latus, Elagatis bipinnulata, Coryphaena hippurus, Lutjanus vivanus, Ocyurus chrysurus, Thunnus atlanticus, Sphyraena barracuda, Canthidermis sufflamen, Etelis oculatus, Acanthocybium solandri, Lutjanus jocu, Balistes vetula, Lutjanus buccanella, followed by Rhomboplites aurorubens and Mycteroperca bonaci. The pelagic species that contribute the most in biomass and commercial importance are S. barracuda, A. solandri, T. atlanticus, and E. bipinnulata, the most important due to their high market value. A significant correlation was found among SST, Chl-α, wind magnitude, and catch per unit effort (CPUE) anomalies. The highest CPUE values occurred in January, March, June and September were associated with the passage of cold fronts and hurricanes, giving way to new fishing opportunities and conservation of some resources.

Abstract Basal and squamous cell carcinoma is currently treated mainly by surgery. In search of non-invasive treatments, topical treatment with 188 Re has been developed and has shown satisfactory results. However, there are currently only two-dimensional descriptions of the spatial distribution of absorbed dose (D) in the target region, which limits the information regarding D to surrounding healthy tissue. Therefore, the aim of the present work was to determine with the Monte Carlo technique the three-dimensional distribution of D in the topical treatment with 188Re of squamous and basal cell carcinoma. Methodology. The simulation scenario consisted of a cream containing re-188 uniformly distributed, a mylar plastic sheet, and a voxel type phantom representing the skin with a volume of 2x2x0.1 cm3 the voxel size was 100 μm per side. The isodose surfaces, as well as the curves in the sagittal and transverse sections were analyzed to describe the distribution of D. Results and Conclusion. The spatial distribution patterns of D were shown. The irradiation times necessary for different activities to impart a dose of 50 Gy in the depth range of 250 - 750 (m were determined. The Homogeneity Index reveals how homogeneity decreases as depth increases. Using the therapeutic configuration described in this work, which is the one used in clinical practice, it is concluded that it is possible to give treatment at depths of 250 - 650 μm without exceeding the recommended absorbed dose limit for the epidermis, which is exceeded if the prescribed dose is reached at a depth of 750 (m. The topical brachytherapy with 188Re for the treatment of squamous and basal cell cancer is economical, safe, effective, practical and painless, which as a plus after treatment presents excellent cosmetic results.

Resumen Actualmente el carcinoma de células basales y escamosas es tratado principalmente por medio de cirugía. En búsqueda de tratamientos no invasivos se ha desarrollado el tratamiento tópico con 188Re que ha mostrado resultados satisfactorios. Sin embargo, en la actualidad solo se cuenta con descripciones bidimensionales de la distribución espacial de dosis absorbida (D) en la región blanco, lo que limita la información referente a la D al tejido sano circundante. Por lo anterior, el objetivo del presente trabajo fue determinar con la técnica Monte Carlo la distribución tridimensional de la D en el tratamiento tópico con 188Re de carcinoma de células escamosas y basales. Metodología. El escenario de la simulación constó de una crema que contiene re-188 distribuido uniformemente, una lámina de plástico mylar, y un maniquí tipo voxel representando a la piel con un volumen de 2x2x0.1 cm3 el tamaño de voxel fue de 100 μm por lado. Se analizaron las superficies de isodosis, así como las curvas en los cortes sagitales y transversales para describir la distribución de la D. Resultados y Conclusión. Se mostraron los patrones de distribución espacial de la D. Fueron determinados los tiempos de irradiación necesarios para distintas actividades para impartir una dosis de 50 Gy en el intervalo de profundidad de 250 - 750 (m. El Índice de Homogeneidad revela la forma en que la homogeneidad disminuye a medida que aumenta la profundidad. Usando la configuración terapéutica descrita en este trabajo que es la que se emplea en la práctica clínica, se concluye que es posible dar tratamiento a profundidades de 250 - 650 μm sin rebasar el límite de dosis absorbida recomendado para la epidermis, el cual se rebasa si se alcanza la dosis prescrita a una profundidad 750 (m. La BSR con 188Re para el tratamiento de cáncer de células escamosas y basales es económica, segura, eficaz, práctica e indolora, que como plus después del tratamiento presenta excelentes resultados cosméticos.

Resumen Objetivo: Describir la frecuencia, las características clínico-demográficas y los factores relacionados con el retraso diagnóstico, con tratamientos incompletos y con el desarrollo de discapacidad entre el ingreso y el egreso de pacientes inscritos en el “Programa de Control de la Enfermedad de Hansen del Valle del Cauca”, de 2010 a 2016. Metodología: Se realizó un estudio observacional descriptivo de una cohorte retrospectiva de pacientes con lepra. Resultados: La incidencia promedio fue de 0,99 casos / 100 000 habitantes. La mediana de edad fue 54 años (rango intercuartílico: 39-65); el 58,82 % fueron hombres, el 49,73 % pertenecía al régimen subsidiado. El 83,68 % fueron casos nuevos, de los cuales, el 76,47 % eran multibacilares (47,9 % con lepra lepromatosa). El 59,54 % manifestó discapacidad y el 10,54 % tuvo leprorreacciones. El 50% presentó retraso diagnóstico, y el 9,09 %, abandonó tratamiento. Se encontró dependencia significativa entre retraso diagnóstico y discapacidad al ingreso (or: 2,09, ic 95 %: 1,28-3,41, p= 0,003), y entre la no finalización del tratamiento y ser previamente tratado (or: 2,82, ic 95 %: 1,28-6,18, p= 0,009). Conclusión: La lepra continúa siendo frecuente en el Valle del Cauca. El retraso diagnóstico y el ingreso con alguna discapacidad connotan captación tardía de los pacientes y en estadios avanzados. El abandono y la discapacidad al egreso se suman a la complejidad de la situación. Se evidencia la necesidad de fortalecer las intervenciones actuales dirigidas hacia el paciente, sus contactos domiciliarios, el personal de salud y la comunidad en general.

Abstract Objective: To describe the frequency, clinical-demographic characteristics and factors related to delayed diagnosis, incomplete treatments, and development of disability from admission to discharge of patients enrolled in the “Hansen's Disease Control Program of Valle del Cauca”, from 2010 to 2016. Methodology: A descriptive observational study of a retrospective cohort of patients with leprosy was conducted. Results: The average incidence was 0.99 cases / 100 000 inhabitants. The median age was 54 years (interquartile range: 39-65); 58.82% were men, 49.73 % belonged to the subsidized regime. 83.68% were new cases, of which 76.47% were multibacillary (47.9% with lepromatous leprosy). 59.54% were disabled, and 10.54% experienced leprotic reactions. 50% had a delayed diagnosis, and 9.09 % abandoned treatment. Significant dependence was found between delayed diagnosis and disability at admission (OR: 2.09, CI 95 %: 1.28-3.41, p = 0.003), and between non-completion of treatment and prior treatment (OR: 2.82, CI 95 %: 1.28-6.18, p = 0.009). Conclusion: Leprosy continues to be frequent in Valle del Cauca. Delayed diagnosis and disability at admission imply late identification of patients in advanced stages. Abandonment and disability are additional factors in this complex situation. It is evident the need to strengthen current interventions aimed at the patient, their home contacts, healthcare workers, and the community.

Resumo Objetivo: Descrever a frequência, as características clínico-demográficas e os fatores relacionados com o atraso do diagnóstico, com tratamentos incompletos e com o desenvolvimento de incapacidade entre a ingresso e o egresso de pacientes inscritos no “Programa de Controle da Enfermidade de Hansen do Valle del Cauca”, de 2010 a 2016. Metodologia: Foi realizado um estudo observacional descritivo de uma coorte retrospectiva de pacientes com lepra. Resultados: A incidência média foi de 0,99 casos/100000 habitantes. A média de idade foi de 54 anos (intervalo interquartil: 39-65); 58,82% foram homens, 49,73% pertenciam ao regime subsidiado. Um total de 83,68% foram de novos casos, dos quais, 76,47% eram multibacilares (47,9% com lepra lepromatosa). Um 59,54% manifestaram incapacidade e 10,54% tiveram lepro-reações. Um 50% apresentaram atraso no diagnóstico e 9,09% abandonaram o tratamento. Encontrou-se significativa dependência entre atraso no diagnóstico e incapacidade no ingresso (OR: 2,09, IC95%: 1,28-3,41, p= 0,003), e entre a não-finalização do tratamento e ser previamente tratado (OR: 2,82, IC95%: 1,28-6,18, p= 0,009). Conclusão: A lepra continua sendo frequente no Valle del Cauca. O atraso no diagnóstico e o ingresso com alguma incapacidade indicam captação tardia dos pacientes e em estágios avançados. O abandono e a incapacidade ao ingresso são somados à complexidade da situação. É evidente a necessidade de fortalecer as intervenções atuais dirigidas ao paciente, seus contatos domiciliares o pessoal de saúde e a comunidade em geral.

Resumen Objetivo: Describir la proporción, características clínicas, demográficas y programáticas de casos fatales de coinfección TB/VIH de Cali-Colombia, en 2017. Material y Método: Estudio de corte transversal, con información de las bases de datos del programa de tuberculosis, las historias clínicas y unidades de análisis de mortalidad disponibles. Resultados: Se depuraron 257 casos fatales por TB, el 24,5% (63/257) falleció con coinfección TB/VIH. La mediana de edad fue 43 años (Rango Intercuartílico: 30-52), 73% (46/63) eran hombres, 76,2% (48/63) no pertenecían al régimen contributivo, 28,6% eran habitantes de calle. 81,2% (39/48) eran casos nuevos de TB, 76,6% (37/47), inició tratamiento; al 74,6% (47/63) se les realizó unidad de análisis de mortalidad. La presentación pulmonar fue frecuente (75,9%-44/58), en 60% de los registros se observó desnutrición (Índice de Masa Corporal <20), en 39,7% (25/63) dependencia al alcohol, tabaco o farmacodependencia. Conclusiones: La mortalidad asociada a TB/VIH es prevenible, pero en 2017 representó la cuarta parte de la mortalidad por TB en Cali. Hombres adultos con condiciones de vulnerabilidad social, diagnosticados en estados avanzados de enfermedad, fueron blanco de fatalidad. Mejorar los sistemas de información e integrar los programas de TB/VIH, deben ser estrategias prioritarias para la salud pública en Colombia.

Abstract Objective: To describe the proportion, clinical, demographic and programmatic characteristics of fatal cases of TB/HIV coinfection from Cali-Colombia, in 2017. Material and Method: Cross-sectional study, with information from the TB program databases, clinical records and mortality analysis units available. Results: 257 TB fatal cases were cleared in Cali in 2017, 24.5% (63/257) of these died with TB/HIV coinfection. The median age was 43 years (Interquartile Range: 30-52), 73% (46/63) were men, 76.2% (48/63) did not belong to the contributory health regimen, 28.6% were homeless. 81.2% (39/48) were new TB cases, 76.6% (37/47) started treatment; 74.6% (47/63) had mortality analysis register. Pulmonary presentation was frequent (75.9% -44 / 58), in 60% of the registries malnutrition was observed (Body Mass Index <20), in 39.7% (25/63), dependence on alcohol, tobacco or drug dependence was registered. Conclusions: Mortality associated with TB/HIV is preventable, but in 2017 it represented a quarter of the TB mortality in Cali. Adult men with conditions of social vulnerability, diagnosed in advanced stages of disease, were fatally targeted. Improving information systems and integrating TB/HIV programs should be priority strategies for public health in Colombia.

Resumen Introducción. El cáncer gástrico en nuestro país es una de las neoplasias más comunes y su diagnóstico generalmente se realiza en estadios avanzados. El objetivo de este estudio fue describir las características sociodemográficas y clínicas, la experiencia quirúrgica, y las complicaciones en los pacientes con cáncer gástrico. Métodos. Se presenta una serie de casos en la que se revisaron las historias clínicas de pacientes con diagnóstico histológico de adenocarcinoma gástrico, a quienes se les practicó gastrectomía mínimamente invasiva en el Instituto Nacional de Cancerología de Bogotá D.C., Colombia, entre enero de 2012 y diciembre de 2018. Resultados. Se realizó gastrectomía por laparoscopia convencional en 31 pacientes (75,6 %) y por laparoscopia asistida por robot en 10 pacientes (24,4 %). Los estadios clínicos fueron IA en 20 pacientes (48,7 %), IB en tres (7,3 %), IIA en nueve (21,9%), IIB en cinco (12,2 %) y IIIA en cuatro pacientes (9,7 %). Se realizaron 24 gastrectomías totales (58,5 %) y 17 distales (41,4 %). No hubo muertes intraoperatorias ni posoperatorias a 30 días. La disección ganglionar predominante fue D2 en el 92,6 % (n=38) de los casos. Se presentaron complicaciones posoperatorias en el 17,1 % (n=7). Discusión. La gastrectomía por cáncer gástrico realizada por vía laparoscópica convencional y la asistida por robot, parecen ser procedimientos seguros y factibles. La determinación de supervivencia libre de enfermedad y mortalidad asociada a cáncer será necesaria para establecer la seguridad oncológica de este tipo de procedimientos en nuestro medio.

Abstract Introduction. In our country, gastric cancer is one of the most common neoplasms and its diagnosis is generally made in advanced stages. The objective of this study was to describe the sociodemographic and clinical characteristics, surgical experience, and complications in patients with gastric cancer. In our country, gastric cancer is one of the most common neoplasms and its diagnosis is generally made in advanced stages. The objective of this study was to describe the sociodemographic and clinical characteristics, surgical experience, and complications in patients with gastric cancer. Methods. A series of cases is presented in which the medical records of patients with a histological diagnosis of gastric adenocarcinoma, who underwent minimally invasive gastrectomy at the National Cancer Institute of Bogotá, Colombia, between January 2012 and December 2018. Results. Conventional laparoscopic gastrectomy was performed in 31 patients (75.6%) and by robot-assisted laparoscopy in 10 patients (24.4%). The clinical stages were IA in 20 patients (48.7%), IB in three (7.3%), IIA in nine (21.9%), IIB in five (12.2%), and IIIA in four patients (9.7%). Twenty-four total gastrectomies (58.5%) and 17 distal gastrectomies (41.4%) were performed. There were no intraoperative or postoperative deaths at 30 days. The predominant lymph node dissection was D2 in 92.6% (n = 38) of the cases. Postoperative complications occurred in 17.1% (n=7). Discussion. Gastrectomy due to gastric cancer, performed by conventional laparoscopic and robot-assisted approaches, appear to be safe and feasible procedures. The determination of disease-free survival and cancer-associated mortality will be necessary to establish the oncological safety of this type of procedure in our environment.

ABSTRACT Fosfomycin is a natural antibiotic, which acts on the synthesis of the cell wall, with broad spectrum bactericidal activity. In this study, the in vitro sensitivity of Escherichia coli (E. coli) isolates was evaluated, including those that produce Extended Spectrum Beta Lactamase (ESBL) obtained from urine cultures taken at different data collection times, in people of both sexes. Were included 260 urine samples with development of E. coli from patients who attended the San Roque laboratory. Bacterian isolation and identification was carried out according to conventional methods and antimicrobial sensitivity by the disk diffusion method. For detection of sensitivity to fosfomycin, 200 µg discs were used with the addition of 50 µg of glucose 6-phosphate. A greater sensitivity for fosfomycin (98.5%) and nitrofurantoin (97.7%) was observed against the evaluated antibiotics. Ciprofloxacin, trimethoprim and the sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim combination exhibited in front of the same isolated lower sensitivity and very similar among them, with 64.2%, 61.2% and 61.2% respectively. In 44 (16.9%) of the E. coli isolates the presence of ESBL was detected and the high sensitivity shown by fosfomycin and nitrofurantoin is noteworthy, even compared to the positive ESBL isolates, with frequencies of 90.9% and 93,2%, respectively. In summary, the high sensitivity demonstrated in the present study by E. coli to fosfomycin opens the possibility of considering this first-choice antibiotic in lower urinary infections, even in ESBL-producing germs, in the population of our country.

RESUMEN La fosfomicina es un antibiótico natural, que actúa sobre la síntesis de la pared celular, con actividad bactericida y de amplio espectro. En este trabajo se evaluó la sensibilidad in vitro de aislados de Escherichia coli (E. coli), incluidos aquellos que producen Beta Lactamasa de Espectro Extendido (BLEE) obtenidos a partir de urocultivos, tomados en diferentes lapsos de colección de datos, en personas de ambos sexos. Fueron incluidos 260 muestras de orina con desarrollo de E. coli provenientes de pacientes que concurrieron al Laboratorio San Roque. El aislamiento e identificación bacteriana se realizó según métodos convencionales y la sensibilidad a los antimicrobianos por el método de difusión de disco. Para la detección de la sensibilidad frente a fosfomicina fueron utilizados discos de 200 μg con el agregado de 50 μg de glucosa 6-fosfato. Se observó frente a los antibióticos evaluados mayor sensibilidad a fosfomicina (98,5%) y nitrofurantoína (97,7%). Ciprofloxacina, trimetoprima y la combinación sulfametoxazol/trimetoprima exhibieron frente a los mismos aislados sensibilidad menor y muy similar entre ellos, con 64,2%, 61,2% y 61,2% respectivamente. En 44 (16,9%) de los aislados de E. coli se detectó la presencia de BLEE y es destacable la alta sensibilidad que mostraron fosfomicina y nitrofurantoína, aún frente a los aislados BLEE positivos, con frecuencias de 90,9% y 93,2%, respectivamente. En resumen, la alta sensibilidad demostrada en el presente estudio por E. coli ante la fosfomicina, abre la posibilidad de considerar a este antibiótico de primera elección en las infecciones urinarias bajas, aún en los casos de gérmenes productores de BLEE, en la población de nuestro país.

ABSTRACT Reports of infection and/or disease caused by non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are becoming increasingly frequent. This scope review describes the epidemiological and clinical trend of infection/disease caused by NTM in Latin America. OVID MEDLINE, Embase and LILACS databases were explored for relevant articles. After filtering, we included 44 articles, representing an overall population of 2,826 subjects diagnosed with NTM infection and disease; the majority of the publications included subjects from Brazil and Colombia (75%), cross-sectional studies were the most common (36.6%), most subjects were male (61.3%) and the median age of subjects was 40.1 years. Disease by NTM was reported in 37 publications, extrapulmonary presentation was the most frequent (54%), main comorbidities were other pulmonary diseases, HIV, cystic fibrosis, diabetes and malnutrition, as reported in 13 studies; tuberculosis diagnosis previous to NTM disease was reported in 15 articles. Aesthetic procedures were reported in 12 articles while clinical procedures were reported in 3 articles. Several NTM species were reported, being Mycobacterium avium (52%), M. abscessus (34%), M. chelonae (18%), M. fortuitum (16%) and M. kansasii (9.1%) the most frequent. Culture and molecular testing were the main methods for diagnosis and identification. Scientific literature on NTM from Latin American countries is scarce. There is an urgent need to conduct studies on the frequency and clinical impact of NTM infections, in order to accurately identify the current morbidity and mortality associated with NTM in Latin American. It is also important to strengthen the local diagnostic capacity and the existing networks focused on studying NTM.

RESUMEN Cada vez son más frecuentes los reportes de aislamientos y enfermedades producidas por micobacterias no tuberculosas (MNT). Esta revisión de alcance describe el comportamiento epidemiológico y clínico de la infección y enfermedad por MNT en Latinoamérica. Se realizó la búsqueda en las bases de datos MEDLINE vía OVID, Embase y LILACS. Después de la depuración, se incluyeron 44 artículos que representaron una población global de 2826 sujetos, a quienes se les diagnosticó infección y enfermedad por MNT; la mayoría de las investigaciones incluyeron sujetos de Brasil y Colombia (75%); los estudios transversales fueron los más frecuentes (36,6%), el sexo masculino fue el más afectado (61,3%), mientras que la mediana de edad fue 40,1 años. En 37 artículos se reportó enfermedad por MNT, siendo la localización extrapulmonar (54%) la más frecuente; las principales comorbilidades fueron las enfermedades pulmonares, VIH/sida, fibrosis quística, diabetes y desnutrición, reportadas en 13 estudios; en 15 artículos se reportó tuberculosis previa al evento por MNT. En 12 artículos se evidenciaron procedimientos estéticos; en tres, procedimientos clínicos previos. Se reportó variedad de especies de MNT, siendo Mycobacterium avium (52%), M. abscessus (34%), M. chelonae (18%), M. fortuitum (16%) y M. kansasii (9,1%) las más frecuentes. El método más usado para diagnosticar e identificar la enfermedad por MNT fue el cultivo, recientemente se agregaron también las pruebas moleculares. La literatura científica latinoamericana sobre la infección/enfermedad por MNT es escasa. Es apremiante conducir estudios de frecuencia e impacto clínico y fortalecer la capacidad diagnóstica y las redes de organizaciones existentes enfocadas al estudio de micobacterias para conocer la verdadera morbimortalidad asociada a las MNT en Latinoamérica.

ABSTRACT Reports of infection and/or disease caused by non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are becoming increasingly frequent. This scope review describes the epidemiological and clinical trend of infection/disease caused by NTM in Latin America. OVID MEDLINE, Embase and LILACS databases were explored for relevant articles. After filtering, we included 44 articles, representing an overall population of 2,826 subjects diagnosed with NTM infection and disease; the majority of the publications included subjects from Brazil and Colombia (75%), cross-sectional studies were the most common (36.6%), most subjects were male (61.3%) and the median age of subjects was 40.1 years. Disease by NTM was reported in 37 publications, extrapulmonary presentation was the most frequent (54%), main comorbidities were other pulmonary diseases, HIV, cystic fibrosis, diabetes and malnutrition, as reported in 13 studies; tuberculosis diagnosis previous to NTM disease was reported in 15 articles. Aesthetic procedures were reported in 12 articles while clinical procedures were reported in 3 articles. Several NTM species were reported, being Mycobacterium avium (52%), M. abscessus (34%), M. chelonae (18%), M. fortuitum (16%) and M. kansasii (9.1%) the most frequent. Culture and molecular testing were the main methods for diagnosis and identification. Scientific literature on NTM from Latin American countries is scarce. There is an urgent need to conduct studies on the frequency and clinical impact of NTM infections, in order to accurately identify the current morbidity and mortality associated with NTM in Latin American. It is also important to strengthen the local diagnostic capacity and the existing networks focused on studying NTM.

RESUMEN Cada vez son más frecuentes los reportes de aislamientos y enfermedades producidas por micobacterias no tuberculosas (MNT). Esta revisión de alcance describe el comportamiento epidemiológico y clínico de la infección y enfermedad por MNT en Latinoamérica. Se realizó la búsqueda en las bases de datos MEDLINE vía OVID, Embase y LILACS. Después de la depuración, se incluyeron 44 artículos que representaron una población global de 2826 sujetos, a quienes se les diagnosticó infección y enfermedad por MNT; la mayoría de las investigaciones incluyeron sujetos de Brasil y Colombia (75%); los estudios transversales fueron los más frecuentes (36,6%), el sexo masculino fue el más afectado (61,3%), mientras que la mediana de edad fue 40,1 años. En 37 artículos se reportó enfermedad por MNT, siendo la localización extrapulmonar (54%) la más frecuente; las principales comorbilidades fueron las enfermedades pulmonares, VIH/sida, fibrosis quística, diabetes y desnutrición, reportadas en 13 estudios; en 15 artículos se reportó tuberculosis previa al evento por MNT. En 12 artículos se evidenciaron procedimientos estéticos; en tres, procedimientos clínicos previos. Se reportó variedad de especies de MNT, siendo Mycobacterium avium (52%), M. abscessus (34%), M. chelonae (18%), M. fortuitum (16%) y M. kansasii (9,1%) las más frecuentes. El método más usado para diagnosticar e identificar la enfermedad por MNT fue el cultivo, recientemente se agregaron también las pruebas moleculares. La literatura científica latinoamericana sobre la infección/enfermedad por MNT es escasa. Es apremiante conducir estudios de frecuencia e impacto clínico y fortalecer la capacidad diagnóstica y las redes de organizaciones existentes enfocadas al estudio de micobacterias para conocer la verdadera morbimortalidad asociada a las MNT en Latinoamérica.

Abstract Cytogenetic analyses were performed on specimens of Leptodactylus bufonius from different localities in Argentina. Mitotic chromosomes were studied with Giemsa and differential staining techniques (Ag-NOR, C-banding, and CMA3/DAPI) and fluorescence in situ hybridization with the 18S DNAr probe. All specimens showed karyotypes with 2n = 2x = 22 and FN = 44. Secondary constrictions were present in the long arm of chromosome pair 8, coincident with Ag-NOR and hybridization signals of the 18S DNAr probe. The C-banding technique evidenced an important amount of heterochromatin with a sex-linked pericentromeric band in the short arm of chromosome pair 4. This heterochromatic band was heteromorphic in males but present in both homologues of females, and it was CMA3 positive (DAPI negative) at fluorescence staining. The occurrence of heteromorphic XY sex chromosomes in L. bufonius is the second known case in Leptodactylus and the fifth within the speciose family Leptodactylidae.

Abstract Selaginella convoluta (Arn.) Spring is a species popularly known as “jericó”, and used in folk medicine as analgesic and anti-inflammatory. This study aimed to investigate in mice the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities of the hexane (Sc-Hex) and chloroform (Sc-CHCl3) fractions (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg) obtained by partition of crude ethanol extract from S. convoluta. The preliminary phytochemical analysis of the fractions was performed. Antinociceptive activity was evaluated by writhing, formalin and hot-plate tests. Anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated using carrageenan-induced pleurisy. The rota-rod test was used to evaluate motor coordination. Preliminary phytochemical screening showed that the Sc-Hex and the Sc-CHCl3 were positive for the presence of flavonoids, anthracene derivatives, quinones, triterpenes and steroids. Inhibition of writhing was observed for fractions tested. The Sc-Hex at all doses tested was effective in reducing the nociceptive behavior produced by formalin only in the second phase. However, the Sc-CHCl3 decreased the paw licking time in the first and second phases. In the hot plate no significant effect was observed for any fraction. In the rota-rod test, treated mice did not demonstrate any significant motor performance changes. In the carrageenan-induced pleurisy, Sc-CHCl3 (200 mg/kg) reduced cell migration to the pleural cavity. These results reveal the antinociceptive properties of S. convoluta , which support, in part, its traditional use, since the fractions did not presented significant activity in the inflammatory response profile. We further verify that this antinociceptive effect could be by activation of nociceptive peripheral pathway.

Resumo Selaginella convoluta é uma espécie popularmente conhecida como “jericó”, e usada na medicina popular como analgésica e anti-inflamatória. Este estudo teve como objetivo investigar em camundongos as atividades antinociceptiva e anti-inflamatória das frações hexânica (Sc-Hex) e clorofórmica (Sc-CHCl3) (100, 200 e 400 mg/kg) obtidas por partição do extrato etanólico bruto de S. convoluta . A análise fitoquímica preliminar das frações foi realizada. A atividade antinociceptiva foi avaliada pelos testes de contorções abdominais, formalina e placa quente. A atividade anti-inflamatória foi avaliada usando pleurisia induzida por carragenina. O teste do rota-rod foi utilizado para avaliar a coordenação motora. A triagem fitoquímica preliminar mostrou que Sc-Hex e Sc-CHCl3 apresentaram reação positiva para a presença de flavonoides, derivados antracênicos, quinonas, triterpenos e esteroides. A inibição das contorções foi observada para as frações testadas. Sc-Hex em todas as doses testadas foi efetivo na redução do comportamento nociceptivo produzido pela formalina somente na segunda fase. No entanto, Sc-CHCl3 diminuiu o tempo de lambida da pata na primeira e segunda fases. Na placa quente, nenhum efeito significativo foi observado para qualquer fração. No teste do rota-rod os camundongos tratados não demonstraram mudanças significativas na coordenação motora. Na pleurisia induzida por carragenina, Sc-CHCl3 (200 mg/kg) reduziu a migração celular para a cavidade pleural. Estes resultados revelam a propriedade antinociceptiva de S. convoluta, justificando, em parte, seu uso tradicional, uma vez que os extratos não apresentaram atividade significativa no perfil de resposta inflamatória. Verificamos ainda que esse efeito antinociceptivo mostrou-se ligado à ativação da via periférica nociceptiva.

RESUMEN Muchos invertebrados marinos sésiles tienen ciclos de vida que involucran el desarrollo de larvas que se asientan en sustratos específicos iniciando su metamorfosis a formas juveniles. Aunque es conocido que biopelículas bacterianas participan en este proceso, las señales químicas responsables hasta ahora se empiezan a investigar. Aquí evaluamos el papel de biofilms bacterianos y sus extractos de moléculas de señalización de "Quorum Sensing' (QSSM) sobre la quimiotaxis y el asentamiento larvario en Hydractinia symbiolongicarpus, un hidrozoario que crece sobre conchas de gastrópodos ocupadas por cangrejos ermitaños. Nosotros aislamos e identificamos taxonómicamente por secuenciación de rDNA 16S 14 cepas bacterianas de conchas con H. symbiolongicarpus. Tres de ellas, Shigella flexneri, Microbacterium liquefaciens, and Kocuria erythromyxa, mostraron producción de QSSMs usando biosensores que detectan N-acil-L-homoserin lactonas. Biopelículas y extractos de QSSMs de estas bacterias mostraron efectos quimiotácticos sobre larvas de H. symbiolongicarpus, efecto no observado en ensayos con cepas mutantes de E. coli y Chromobacterium violaceum que son incapaces de producir QSSMs. Las biopelículas y sus extractos indujeron adhesión larvaria sobre superficies, aunque solamente el 1 % de las larvas asentadas hicieron metamorfosis hacia pólipo primario, en contraste con 99 % de larvas incubadas con CsCl, un inductor artificial de asentamiento y metamorfosis. Estas observaciones sugieren que QSSMs de biopelículas bacterianas participan en la selección de sustrato de H. symbiolongicarpus, induciendo quimiotaxis y asentamiento de sus larvas. También sugieren que el asentamiento en cnidarios tiene dos procesos, adhesión y metamorfosis, donde las QSSMs participarían en el primero, pero no en el segundo.

ABSTRACT Many sessile marine invertebrates have life cycles involving the development of larvae that settle on specific substrates to initiate metamorphosis to juvenile forms. Although is recognized that bacterial biofilms play a role in this process, the responsible chemical cues are beginning to be investigated. Here, we tested the role of substrate-specific bacteria biofilms and their Quorum Sensing Signaling Molecule (QSSM) extracts on chemotaxis and settlement of larvae from Hydractinia symbiolongicarpus, a hydroid that grows on gastropod shells occupied by hermit crabs. We isolated and taxonomically identified by 16S rDNA sequencing, 14 bacterial strains from shells having H. symbiolongicarpus. Three isolates, Shigella flexneri, Microbacterium liquefaciens, and Kocuria erythromyxa, were identified to produce QSSMs using biosensors detecting N-acyl-L-homoserine lactones. Multispecies biofilms and QSSM extracts from these bacteria showed a positive chemotactic effect on H. symbiolongicarpus larvae, a phenomenon not observed with mutant strains of E. coli and Chromobacterium violaceum that are unable to produce QSSMs. These biofilms and QSSMs extracts induced high rates of larval attachment, although only 1 % of the attached larvae metamorphosed to primary polyps, in contrast to 99 % of larvae incubated with CsCl, an artificial inductor of attachment and metamorphosis. These observations suggest that bacterial QSSMs participate in H. symbiolongicarpus substrate selection by inducing larval chemotaxis and attachment. Furthermore, they support the notion that settlement in cnidarians is decoupled into two processes, attachment to the substrate and metamorphosis to a primary polyp, where QSSMs likely participate in the former but not in the latter.