1
|
Rodriguez-Pazmiño AS, Brito CM, Salas-Rueda M, Orlando SA, Garcia-Bereguiain MA. A first insight into seropositivity of Neospora caninum and associated risk factors in free-roaming dogs from Ecuador. Acta Trop 2024:107245. [PMID: 38761834 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2024.107245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
Neosporosis is a worldwide parasitic disease caused by the protozoan Neospora caninum. It can cause economic losses to farmers due to its relationship with abortions and neonatal mortality in cows. Dogs play a key role in its spread as they are considered definitive hosts. In this study, we determined for the first time the seropositivity of N. caninum infection in dogs from Ecuador and evaluated potential risk factors. A total number of 339 free-roaming dogs from the three main regions of Ecuador (Coastal, Andean, and Amazonian regions) were included in the study and classified either as urban or rural dogs. Serum samples were collected from November 2018 to May 2019, and analyzed with a commercial ELISA test. An overall seropositivity of 6.8% (CI: 95%, 2.8% - 11.7%) was found in N. caninum infection with no statistical differences among regions or urban/rural dogs. This is the first surveillance of N. caninum in Ecuador, confirming a country-wide distribution of this pathogen. Considering the large populations of free-roaming dogs in Ecuador, a One Health approach for surveillance and managing N. caninum in dogs is needed to protect either livestock or wildlife.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Carla M Brito
- One Health Research Group, Universidad de las Américas, Quito, Ecuador; Yachay Tech University, Urcuquí, Ecuador
| | | | - Solon Alberto Orlando
- Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública e Investigación, Guayaquil, Ecuador; Universidad Espíritu Santo, Guayaquil, Ecuador
| | | |
Collapse
|
2
|
Khamly P, Kapadia N, Umali-Wilcox M, Butler-Wu SM, Davar K. Plasmodium vivax Infections among Immigrants from China Traveling to the United States. Emerg Infect Dis 2024; 30. [PMID: 38710182 DOI: 10.3201/eid3007.240177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Beginning in 2023, we observed increased Plasmodium vivax malaria cases at an institution in Los Angeles, California, USA. Most cases were among migrants from China who traveled to the United States through South and Central America. US clinicians should be aware of possible P. vivax malaria among immigrants from China.
Collapse
|
3
|
Briceño-Loaiza C, Fernández-Sanhueza B, Benavides-Silva C, Jimenez JY, Rubio AV, Ábalos P, Alegría-Morán RA. Spatial clusters, temporal behavior, and risk factors analysis of rabies in livestock in Ecuador. Prev Vet Med 2024; 226:106188. [PMID: 38513566 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2024.106188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
Rabies, a globally distributed and highly lethal zoonotic neglected tropical disease, has a significant impact in South America. In Ecuador, animal rabies cases are primarily linked to livestock, and hematophagous bats play a crucial role in disease transmission. This study aims to identify temporal trends, spatial patterns, and risk factors for animal rabies in Ecuador between 2014 and 2019. Epidemiological survey reports from the official Animal Rabies Surveillance Program of the Phyto and Zoosanitary Regulation and Control Agency of Ecuador (AGROCALIDAD) were used. The Animal Rabies Surveillance Program from AGROCALIDAD consists of an official passive surveillance program that receives reports from farmers or individuals (both trained or untrained) who have observed animals with neurological clinical signs and lesions compatible with bat bites, or who have seen or captured bats on their farms or houses. Once this report is made, AGROCALIDAD personnel is sent for field inspection, having to confirm the suspicion of rabies based on farm conditions and compatibility of signs. AGROCALIDAD personnel collect samples from all suspicious animals, which are further processed and analyzed using the Direct Fluorescent Antibody (DFA) test for rabies confirmatory diagnosis. In this case, study data comprised 846 bovine farms (with intra-farm sample sizes ranging from 1 to 16 samples) located in different ecoregions of Ecuador; out of these, 397 (46.93%) farms tested positive for animal rabies, revealing six statistically significant spatial clusters. Among these clusters, three high-risk areas were identified in the southeast of Ecuador. Seasonality was confirmed by the Ljung-Box test for both the number of cases (p < 0.001) and the positivity rate (p < 0.001). The Pacific Coastal lowlands and Sierra regions showed a lower risk of positivity compared to Amazonia (OR = 0.529; 95% CI = 0.318 - 0.883; p = 0.015 and OR = 0.633; 95% CI = 0.410 - 0.977; p = 0.039, respectively). The breeding of non-bovine animal species demonstrated a lower risk of positivity to animal rabies when compared to bovine (OR = 0.145; 95% CI = 0.062 - 0.339; p < 0.001). Similarly, older animals exhibited a lower risk (OR = 0.974; 95% CI = 0.967 - 0.981; p < 0.001). Rainfall during the rainy season was also found to decrease the risk of positivity to animal rabies (OR = 0.996; 95% CI = 0.995 - 0.998; p < 0.001). This study underscores the significance of strengthening the national surveillance program for the prevention and control of animal rabies in Ecuador and other countries facing similar epidemiological, social, and geographical circumstances.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- César Briceño-Loaiza
- Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias y Pecuarias, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile; Agencia de Regulación y Control Fito y Zoosanitario (AGROCALIDAD), Ecuador; Carrera de Agroecología, Instituto Superior Tecnológico Juan Montalvo, Loja, Ecuador
| | - Bastián Fernández-Sanhueza
- Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias y Pecuarias, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile; Escuela de Medicina Veterinaria, Facultad de Recursos Naturales y Medicina Veterinaria, Universidad Santo Tomás, Santiago, Chile
| | - César Benavides-Silva
- Facultad de Historia, Geografía y Ciencia Política, Instituto de Geografía, Pontificia Universidad Católica, Chile; Centro de Investigaciones Territoriales, Universidad Nacional de Loja, Ecuador
| | - José Yaguana Jimenez
- Carrera de Medicina Veterinaria, Facultad Agropecuaria y de Recursos Naturales Renovables, Universidad Nacional de Loja, Ecuador
| | - André V Rubio
- Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias y Pecuarias, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Pedro Ábalos
- Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias y Pecuarias, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Raúl A Alegría-Morán
- Escuela de Medicina Veterinaria, Facultad de Recursos Naturales y Medicina Veterinaria, Universidad Santo Tomás, Santiago, Chile.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Tituaña A, Herrán K, Galárraga O, Palacios I. How to decrease teenage pregnancy: rural perspectives in Ecuador. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1370507. [PMID: 38751588 PMCID: PMC11094233 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1370507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction This study aimed to understand the sociocultural context of teenage pregnancy in an Ecuadorian city with a large indigenous population, to gauge the acceptability of a multifaceted pregnancy prevention program for adolescents, and to elicit perspectives on the optimal program design from adolescents and adult key informants. Methods We ascertained qualitative data via an online, electronic survey administered from August to September 2020. Open- and closed-ended questions elicited perspectives relating to burden of adolescent pregnancies, acceptability of pregnancy prevention programs, and optimal design of future programs. Twenty-four adolescents (13-19 years of age) and 15 adult key informants working in the healthcare, business, and education sectors in Cotacachi completed the survey. Survey responses were analyzed using a structural and in vivo coding, and an inductive approach to consensus-building around key themes. Results Most adolescent survey respondents (75%) believed that teen pregnancy is "fairly common" in Cotacachi, and 41.7% believed differences in teen pregnancy rates are not associated with ethnicity. In comparison, 66.7% of adult survey respondents said teen pregnancy disproportionately occurs among indigenous teenagers. Additionally, 45.8% of adolescent and 80% of adult survey respondents believed that a comprehensive sexual education program would help reduce teenage pregnancy rates by imparting reliable sexual health knowledge. Adult respondents noted that the past programs were unsuccessful in preventing teenage pregnancy because of these programs' inability to fully engage teenagers' attention, very short time duration, or inappropriate consideration of cultural context. Discussion In Cotacachi, Ecuador, a sexual health education program is both desired and feasible according to adult and teenager key informants. A successful program must adapt to the cultural context and engage youth participation and attention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Allpa Tituaña
- Colegio de Ciencias de la Salud - Escuela de Medicina, Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Keren Herrán
- Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States
| | - Omar Galárraga
- Department of Health Services, Policy and Practice, and International Health Institute, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Iván Palacios
- Colegio de Ciencias de la Salud - Escuela de Medicina, Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Quito, Ecuador
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Díaz-Sánchez JP, Lanchimba C, Obaco M. The relationship between income, weight, and using traffic-light labeling to buy processed food in Ecuador. J Public Health Policy 2024:10.1057/s41271-024-00486-1. [PMID: 38684867 DOI: 10.1057/s41271-024-00486-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
This paper presents an investigation of the factors influencing the decision to purchase processed food based on traffic-light labeling (TLL). To achieve this, we use data from the official National Survey of Health and Nutrition, which gathered information on 26,532 individuals aged between 19 and 59 between 2011 and 2013. Employing a probit regression to assess the likelihood of buying food based on TLL, we identify a positive association between income level and the probability of buying food based on TLL; indeed, our model suggests that a 1% increase in monthly income increases by 0.008 the probability of buying food based on TLL. We infer that people with higher levels of income are more aware of the benefits of TLL and healthy food habits. Our results also suggest that the probability of basing purchasing decisions on TLL is higher for overweight people compared to those of normal weight, that is, overweight people buy their processed food paying more attention to TLL compared to normal weight people.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Cintya Lanchimba
- Departamento de Economía Cuantitativa, Escuela Politécnica Nacional, Quito, Ecuador
- Institut de Recherche en Gestion et en Economie, Université Savoie Mont Blanc, Annecy, France
| | - Moisés Obaco
- Departamento de Economía FACEA, Universidad Católica del Norte de Chile, Antofagasta, Chile
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Sotomayor N, Villacis JE, Burneo N, Reyes J, Zapata S, Bayas-Rea RDLÁ. Carbapenemase genes in clinical and environmental isolates of Acinetobacter spp. from Quito, Ecuador. PeerJ 2024; 12:e17199. [PMID: 38680892 PMCID: PMC11056107 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.17199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2019] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter spp. is associated with nosocomial infections in intensive care unit patients, resulting in high mortality. Although Acinetobacter spp. represent a serious public health problem worldwide, there are a few studies related to the presence of carbapenemases in health care facilities and other environmental settings in Ecuador. The main aim of this study was to characterize the carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter spp. isolates obtained from four hospitals (52) and from five rivers (27) close to Quito. We used the disc diffusion and EDTA sinergy tests to determine the antimicrobial susceptibility and the production of metallo β-lactamases, respectively. We carried out a multiplex PCR of gyrB gene and the sequencing of partial rpoB gene to bacterial species identification. We performed molecular screening of nine carbapenem-resistant genes (blaSPM, blaSIM, blaGIM, blaGES, blaOXA-23, blaOXA-24, blaOXA-51, blaOXA-58, and blaOXA-143) by multiplex PCR, followed by identification using sequencing of blaOXA genes. Our findings showed that carbapenem-resistant A. baumannii were the main species found in health care facilities and rivers. Most of the clinical isolates came from respiratory tract samples and harbored blaOXA-23, blaOXA-366, blaOXA-72, blaOXA-65, blaOXA-70, and blaOXA-143-like genes. The river isolates harbored only the blaOXA-51 and probably blaOXA-259 genes. We concluded that the most predominant type of carbapenem genes among isolates were both blaOXA-23 and blaOXA-65 among A. baumannii clinical isolates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Sotomayor
- Escuela de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
| | - José Eduardo Villacis
- Centro de Referencia Nacional de Resistencia a los Antimicrobianos, Instituto Nacional de Investigación en Salud Pública-INSPI Dr. Leopoldo Izquieta Pérez, Quito, Ecuador
- Centro de Investigación para la Salud en América Latina (CISeAL), Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Noela Burneo
- Escuela de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Jorge Reyes
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Central del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Sonia Zapata
- Instituto de Microbiología, Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales, Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Rosa de los Ángeles Bayas-Rea
- Escuela de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
- Instituto de Microbiología, Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales, Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Quito, Ecuador
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Lapo-Talledo GJ. Dengue hospitalizations and in-hospital mortality changes in trend in Ecuador: a nationwide study from 2015 to 2022. Infect Dis (Lond) 2024:1-12. [PMID: 38618674 DOI: 10.1080/23744235.2024.2341871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to analyze dengue hospitalizations and in-hospital mortality trends in Ecuador, along with sociodemographic factors influencing adverse outcomes. METHODS This study included 31,616 dengue hospitalizations in Ecuador during 2015-2022, of which 115 (0.36%) died. Data were extracted from national hospital registries. Age adjusted rates were calculated, and for the analysis of changes in trend, a Joinpoint regression was performed. Multivariate binary and multinomial logistic regressions were performed for assessing sociodemographic factors influencing dengue adverse outcomes. RESULTS During 2015-2022, the mean age adjusted dengue hospitalization rate was 22.3 per 100,000 inhabitants with 49.41% annual decrease during 2015-2017 and 31.73% annual increase during 2017-2022 with higher rates in 2020 with 31.61, 2021 with 34.42, and 2022 with 25.81. The mean dengue in-hospital mortality rate was 0.08, mortality rates did not show significant changes during 2015-2022. Higher probability of death was observed in ages ≥50 years and ethnic minorities. People living in rural areas exhibited a 64% higher risk for complicated dengue hospitalization. CONCLUSIONS It was observed as an important accomplishment in Ecuador's ongoing efforts to improve healthcare regarding dengue. 0.36% of dengue hospitalizations ended in death which is below the recommended 1%. The increase in dengue hospitalizations in Ecuador during recent years remains a concern. The COVID-19 pandemic might have influenced dengue prevention and vector control to be neglected leading to an increase in cases.
Collapse
|
8
|
Nicole SA, Fernanda ZC, Mendoza-Nieto K, Briones-Mendoza J. Age and growth of the blue shark Prionace glauca (Linnaeus, 1758) in the Ecuadorian Pacific: Bayesian multi-models. J Fish Biol 2024. [PMID: 38622835 DOI: 10.1111/jfb.15755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
The blue shark Prionace glauca plays a critical role as a predator in marine ecosystems but is threatened by by-catch. To obtain more precise biological data, a Bayesian approach was used, and 536 vertebrae samples collected during 1 year at the landing stage called "Playita Mía" Manta, Ecuador, were analysed. The objective was to estimate the age and growth parameters of the species. The size of the specimens varied between 116 and 310 cm in total length (TL). Using a Bayesian approach based on the Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) method, growth parameters were evaluated. The von Bertalanffy model was the one that best fitted the data and provided more adequate estimates (females:L ∞ $$ L\infty $$ = 325.50 cm,L 0 $$ {L}_0 $$ = 53.23 cm, and k = 0.12 years; males:L ∞ $$ L\infty $$ = 331.47 cm,L 0 $$ {L}_0 $$ = 51.59 cm, k = 0.12 years -1; combined sexes:L ∞ $$ L\infty $$ = 329.65 cm,L 0 $$ {L}_0 $$ = 53.64 cm, k = 0.11 year-1). The results indicated that females and males have a similar growth, and that the species has a slow growth. Further studies using multi-model Bayesian approaches and covering a broader range of sizes in the Pacific Ocean are suggested. These studies will provide crucial information for the management and conservation of this species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Suárez-Aguilar Nicole
- Carrera de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida y Tecnologías, Universidad Laica "Eloy Alfaro" de Manabí, Ciudadela Universitaria vía San Mateo, Manta, Ecuador
| | - Zambrano-Cedeño Fernanda
- Carrera de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida y Tecnologías, Universidad Laica "Eloy Alfaro" de Manabí, Ciudadela Universitaria vía San Mateo, Manta, Ecuador
| | - Klever Mendoza-Nieto
- Carrera de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida y Tecnologías, Universidad Laica "Eloy Alfaro" de Manabí, Ciudadela Universitaria vía San Mateo, Manta, Ecuador
| | - Jesus Briones-Mendoza
- Carrera de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida y Tecnologías, Universidad Laica "Eloy Alfaro" de Manabí, Ciudadela Universitaria vía San Mateo, Manta, Ecuador
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Alonso Llorente A, Salgado Garrido J, Teijido Hermida Ó, González Andrade F, Valiente Martín A, Fanlo Villacampa AJ, Vicente Romero J. Genetic polymorphisms of CYP2C19 in ecuadorian population: An interethnic approach. Heliyon 2024; 10:e28566. [PMID: 38586400 PMCID: PMC10998100 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e28566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction CYP2C19 is a highly polymorphic gene responsible for metabolizing commonly used drugs. CYP2C19*2,*3 (loss of activity alleles) and *17 (increased activity allele) are the principal alleles included in clinical guidelines, however their prevalence varies among different ethnicities. Ecuadorian population is formed by Mestizos, Afrodescendants and Native Americans and frequency of CYP2C19 alleles could be different among them. The objective of this study was to establish the frequency of these variants in the different populations of Ecuador and to compare them with other populations. Materials and methods DNA from 105 Afrodescendants, 75 Native Americans of the Kichwa ethnicity, and 33 Mestizos Ecuadorians was analyzed by nested-PCR to identify CYP2C19*17 carriers. CYP2C19*2 allele was analyzed in DNA from 78 Afrodescendants, 29 Native Americans of the Kichwa, and 16 Mestizos by TaqMan Allelic Discrimination Assay. CYP2C19*3 was analyzed in 33 Afrodescendants by nested-PCR. Results The global frequencies of the alternate alleles were 14.22% (CYP2C19*2) and 2.10% (CYP2C19*17). No differences (p > 0.05) were observed among the subgroups. No CYP2C19*3 carrier was identified. CYP2C19*2 frequencies in Ecuador were similar to the ones reported in Europe, Africa and Middle East countries and to some American populations. Low CYP2C19*17 frequencies, like the ones in our population, were also observed in East and South Asia and in Native American groups. Discussion Absence of differences in the ethnic groups in Ecuador for CYP2C19*2 and *17 could be due to either a bias in sample selection (ethnic group was assed by self-identification) or to a high interethnic admixture in the Ecuadorian population that would had diluted genetic differences. In addition, CYP2C19*2, *3, and *17 alleles frequencies in our study suggest that Ecuadorians ancestry is mostly of Native American origin.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alba Alonso Llorente
- Clinical Laboratory Department, Hospital Universitario Arnau de Vilanova, Lleida, Catalunya, Spain
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology and Legal and Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Aragón, Spain
- IRBLleida, Institut de Recerca Biomèdica de Lleida Fundació Dr. Pifarre, Lleida, Catalunya, Spain
| | - Josefa Salgado Garrido
- Medical Genetics Department, Hospital Universitario de Navarra, Pamplona, Navarra, Spain
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Public University of Navarra (UPNA), Pamplona, Navarra, Spain
| | - Óscar Teijido Hermida
- Navarrabiomed, IdiSNA (Navarra Institute for Health Research), Public University of Navarra (UPNA), Pamplona, Navarra, Spain
| | | | | | - Ana Julia Fanlo Villacampa
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology and Legal and Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Aragón, Spain
| | - Jorge Vicente Romero
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology and Legal and Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Aragón, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Maldonado-Barrueco A, San José-Villar SM, García-Rodríguez J, Alguacil-Guillén M, López-Janeiro Á, Trigo-Esteban E, Díaz-Menéndez M, Ruiz-Carrascoso G. Answer to April 2024 Photo Quiz. J Clin Microbiol 2024; 62:e0125923. [PMID: 38597632 PMCID: PMC11005401 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.01259-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Read the full article for the answer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Álvaro López-Janeiro
- Department of Pathological Anatomy, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain
| | - Elena Trigo-Esteban
- Imported Pathology and International Health Unit, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Díaz-Menéndez
- Imported Pathology and International Health Unit, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain
- CIBERINFEC ISCIII, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Guillermo Ruiz-Carrascoso
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain
- CIBERINFEC ISCIII, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Maldonado-Barrueco A, San José-Villar SM, García-Rodríguez J, Alguacil-Guillén M, López-Janeiro Á, Trigo-Esteban E, Díaz-Menéndez M, Ruiz-Carrascoso G. Photo Quiz: Mmm … delicious ceviche from Ecuador! J Clin Microbiol 2024; 62:e0125823. [PMID: 38597633 PMCID: PMC11005358 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.01258-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Álvaro López-Janeiro
- Department of Pathological Anatomy, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain
| | - Elena Trigo-Esteban
- Imported Pathology and International Health Unit, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Díaz-Menéndez
- Imported Pathology and International Health Unit, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain
- CIBERINFEC ISCIII, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Guillermo Ruiz-Carrascoso
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain
- CIBERINFEC ISCIII, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Soria-Segarra C, Soria-Segarra C, Molina-Matute M, Agreda-Orellana I, Núñez-Quezada T, Cevallos-Apolo K, Miranda-Ayala M, Salazar-Tamayo G, Galarza-Herrera M, Vega-Hall V, Villacis JE, Gutiérrez-Fernández J. Molecular epidemiology of carbapenem-resistant gram-negative bacilli in Ecuador. BMC Infect Dis 2024; 24:378. [PMID: 38582858 PMCID: PMC10998298 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-024-09248-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Carbapenem-resistant gram-negative bacilli are a worldwide concern because of high morbidity and mortality rates. Additionally, the increasing prevalence of these bacteria is dangerous. To investigate the extent of antimicrobial resistance and prioritize the utility of novel drugs, we evaluated the molecular characteristics and antimicrobial susceptibility profiles of carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobacter baumannii in Ecuador in 2022. METHODS Ninety-five clinical isolates of carbapenem non-susceptible gram-negative bacilli were collected from six hospitals in Ecuador. Carbapenem resistance was confirmed with meropenem disk diffusion assays following Clinical Laboratory Standard Institute guidelines. Carbapenemase production was tested using a modified carbapenemase inactivation method. Antimicrobial susceptibility was tested with a disk diffusion assay, the Vitek 2 System, and gradient diffusion strips. Broth microdilution assays were used to assess colistin susceptibility. All the isolates were screened for the blaKPC, blaNDM, blaOXA-48, blaVIM and blaIMP genes. In addition, A. baumannii isolates were screened for the blaOXA-23, blaOXA-58 and blaOXA-24/40 genes. RESULTS Carbapenemase production was observed in 96.84% of the isolates. The blaKPC, blaNDM and blaOXA-48 genes were detected in Enterobacterales, with blaKPC being predominant. The blaVIM gene was detected in P. aeruginosa, and blaOXA-24/40 predominated in A. baumannii. Most of the isolates showed co-resistance to aminoglycosides, fluoroquinolones, and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole. Both ceftazidime/avibactam and meropenem/vaborbactam were active against carbapenem-resistant gram-negative bacilli that produce serin-carbapenemases. CONCLUSION The epidemiology of carbapenem resistance in Ecuador is dominated by carbapenemase-producing K. pneumoniae harbouring blaKPC. Extensively drug resistant (XDR) P. aeruginosa and A. baumannii were identified, and their identification revealed the urgent need to implement strategies to reduce the dissemination of these strains.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Soria-Segarra
- Sosecali, Medical Services, Guayaquil, EC, 090308, Ecuador.
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, Guayaquil University, Guayaquil, Ecuador.
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine and PhD Program in Clinical Medicine and Public Health, University of Granada & ibs, Granada, Spain.
| | - Carmen Soria-Segarra
- Sosecali, Medical Services, Guayaquil, EC, 090308, Ecuador
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Universidad Católica de Santiago de Guayaquil, Guayaquil, Ecuador
| | | | | | - Tamara Núñez-Quezada
- Hospital del Instituto Ecuatoriano de Seguridad Social Dr. Teodoro Maldonado Carbo, Guayaquil, Ecuador
| | - Kerly Cevallos-Apolo
- Hospital de Infectología Dr. José Daniel Rodríguez Maridueña, Guayaquil, Ecuador
| | | | | | | | | | - José E Villacis
- Centro de Investigación Para La Salud en América Latina (CISeAL), Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador, Quito, 1701-2184, Ecuador
| | - José Gutiérrez-Fernández
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine and PhD Program in Clinical Medicine and Public Health, University of Granada & ibs, Granada, Spain
- Department of Microbiology, Hospital Virgen de Las Nieves, Institute for Biosanitary Research-Ibs, Granada, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Castro-Rodriguez B, Franco-Sotomayor G, Benitez-Medina JM, Cardenas-Franco G, Jiménez-Pizarro N, Cardenas-Franco C, Aguirre-Martinez JL, Orlando SA, Hermoso de Mendoza J, Garcia-Bereguiain MA. Prevalence, drug resistance, and genotypic diversity of the RD Rio subfamily of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in Ecuador: a retrospective analysis for years 2012-2016. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1337357. [PMID: 38689770 PMCID: PMC11060180 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1337357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction A major sublineage within the Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) LAM family characterized by a new in-frame fusion gene Rv3346c/55c was discovered in Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) in 2007, called RDRio, associated to drug resistance. The few studies about prevalence of MTB RDRio strains in Latin America reported values ranging from 3% in Chile to 69.8% in Venezuela, although no information is available for countries like Ecuador. Methods A total of 814 MTB isolates from years 2012 to 2016 were screened by multiplex PCR for RDRio identification, followed by 24-loci MIRU-VNTR and spoligotyping. Results A total number of 17 MTB RDRio strains were identified, representing an overall prevalence of 2.09% among MTB strains in Ecuador. While 10.9% of the MTB isolates included in the study were multidrug resistance (MDR), 29.4% (5/17) of the RDRio strains were MDR. Discussion This is the first report of the prevalence of MTB RDRio in Ecuador, where a strong association with MDR was found, but also a very low prevalence compared to other countries in Latin America. It is important to improve molecular epidemiology tools as a part of MTB surveillance programs in Latin America to track the transmission of potentially dangerous MTB stains associated to MDR TB like MTB RDRio.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Greta Franco-Sotomayor
- Instituto Nacional de Investigación en Salud Pública “Leopoldo Izquieta Pérez”, Guayaquil, Ecuador
- Universidad Católica Santiago de Guayaquil, Guayaquil, Ecuador
| | | | | | - Natalia Jiménez-Pizarro
- Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | | | | | - Solon Alberto Orlando
- Instituto Nacional de Investigación en Salud Pública “Leopoldo Izquieta Pérez”, Guayaquil, Ecuador
- Universidad Espiritu Santo, Guayaquil, Ecuador
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Izquierdo-Condoy JS, Sánchez Abadiano LE, Sánchez W, Rodríguez I, De La Cruz Matías K, Paz C, Ortiz-Prado E. Exploring healthcare barriers and satisfaction levels among deaf individuals in Ecuador: A video-based survey approach. Disabil Health J 2024:101622. [PMID: 38580501 DOI: 10.1016/j.dhjo.2024.101622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Approximately 80% of Deaf individuals live in low- and middle-income countries, where health systems often overlook their specific needs. This communication gap can result in misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment, impacting their overall satisfaction with healthcare services. OBJECTIVES This study aims to uncover barriers to healthcare access and preferences among the Deaf population in Ecuador, and the role of communication barriers in shaping satisfaction levels with healthcare services. METHODS The study gathered data from 386 participants through online surveys, focusing on demographic characteristics, healthcare experiences, communication methods, and levels of satisfaction. Descriptive statistics and association analyses were employed to analyze the data. RESULTS The study reveals that nearly all participants possessed an officially recognized disability (95.9%) and 53.9% reported hereditary deafness. Ecuadorian sign language was predominant (60.9%). Communication barriers were evident, with 65.0% having trouble understanding medical instructions, and 66.6% identifying a deficiency of tools for Deaf individuals in healthcare settings. Satisfaction levels were associated with the presence of interpreters during medical care, with 46.6% expressing a preference for interpreters over other communication methods. Additionally, private healthcare facilities were perceived as providing better services, despite being less frequently accessed (38.9%). Dissatisfaction was evident, particularly in aspects of communication and physician courtesy. CONCLUSIONS This study underscores the importance of tailoring healthcare services to address the unique needs of the Deaf population. Communication barriers emerged as a central obstacle, necessitating the inclusion of sign language interpreters and improvement of resources. The study's implications extend to healthcare equity in developing nations, emphasizing the significance of patient-centered care and inclusive healthcare practices.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Wilson Sánchez
- Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Central del Ecuador, Quito, 170136, Ecuador
| | - Ivonne Rodríguez
- Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Central del Ecuador, Quito, 170136, Ecuador
| | | | - Clara Paz
- Grupo de Investigación Bienestar, Salud y Sociedad, Universidad de las Américas, Quito, 170137, Ecuador
| | - Esteban Ortiz-Prado
- One Health Research Group, Universidad de las Américas, Quito, 170137, Ecuador.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Carvajal M, Saenz C, Fuentes N, Guevara R, Muñoz E, Prado-Vivar B, Diaz E, Alfonso-Cortes F, Coloma J, Grunauer M, Rojas-Silva P, Cardenas PA, Barragan V. SARS-CoV-2 infection in brown-headed spider monkeys ( Ateles fusciceps) at a wildlife rescue center on the coast of Ecuador-South America. Microbiol Spectr 2024; 12:e0274123. [PMID: 38364080 PMCID: PMC10986564 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.02741-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Human populations can be affected in unpredictable ways by the emergence and spread of zoonotic diseases. The COVID-19 (coronavirus disease of 2019) pandemic was a reminder of how devastating these events can be if left unchecked. However, once they have spread globally, the impact of these diseases when entering non-exposed wildlife populations is unknown. The current study reports the infection of brown-headed spider monkeys (Ateles fusciceps) at a wildlife rescue center in Ecuador. Four monkeys were hospitalized, and all tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 (Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2) by RT-qPCR (Quantitative Reverse Transcription PCR). Fecal samples (n = 12) from monkeys at the rescue center also tested positive; three zookeepers responsible for feeding and deworming the monkeys also tested positive, suggesting human-animal transmission. Whole genome sequencing identified most samples' omicron clade 22B BA.5 lineage. These findings highlight the threat posed by an emerging zoonotic disease in wildlife species and the importance of preventing spillover and spillback events during epidemic or pandemic events.IMPORTANCEAlthough COVID-19 (coronavirus disease of 2019) has been primarily contained in humans through widespread vaccination, the impact and incidence of SARS-CoV-2 (Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus) and its transmission and epidemiology in wildlife may need to be addressed. In some natural environments, the proximity of animals to humans is difficult to control, creating perfect scenarios where susceptible wildlife can acquire the virus from humans. In these places, it is essential to understand how transmission can occur and to develop protocols to prevent infection. This study reports the infection of brown-headed spider monkeys with SARS-CoV-2, a red-listed monkey species, at a wildlife recovery center in Ecuador. This study reports the infection of brown-headed spider monkeys with SARS-CoV-2, indicating the potential for transmission between humans and wildlife primates and the importance of preventing such events in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mateo Carvajal
- Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Instituto de Microbiología, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Carolina Saenz
- Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Hospital de Fauna Silvestre TUERI-USFQ, Quito, Ecuador
| | | | - Rommel Guevara
- Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Instituto de Microbiología, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Erika Muñoz
- Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Instituto de Microbiología, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Belen Prado-Vivar
- Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Instituto de Microbiología, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Eduardo Diaz
- Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Escuela de Medicina Veterinaria, Quito, Ecuador
| | | | | | - Michelle Grunauer
- Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Escuela de Medicina, Quito, Ecuador
| | | | - Paul A. Cardenas
- Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Instituto de Microbiología, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Veronica Barragan
- Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Instituto de Microbiología, Quito, Ecuador
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Guillen T, Kessler M, Homeier J. Fern mycorrhizae do not respond to fertilization in a tropical montane forest. Plant Environ Interact 2024; 5:e10139. [PMID: 38560414 PMCID: PMC10979390 DOI: 10.1002/pei3.10139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Ferns are known to have a lower incidence of mycorrhization than angiosperms. It has been suggested that this results from carbon being more limiting to fern growth than nutrient availability, but this assertion has not been tested yet. In the present study, we took advantage of a fertilization experiment with nitrogen and phosphorus on cloud forest plots of the Ecuadorean Andes for 15 years. A previous analysis revealed changes in the abundances of fern species in the fertilized plots compared to the control plots and hypothesized that this might be related to the responses of the mycorrhizal relationships to nutrient availability. We revisited the plots to assess the root-associated fungal communities of two epiphytic and two terrestrial fern species that showed shifts in abundance. We sampled and analyzed the roots of 125 individuals following a metabarcoding approach. We recovered 1382 fungal ASVs, with a dominance of members of Tremellales (Basidiomycota) and Heliotales (Ascomycota). The fungal diversity was highly partitioned with little overlap between individuals. We found marked differences between terrestrial and epiphytic species, with the latter fundamentally missing arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF). We found no effect of fertilization on the diversity or relative abundance of the fungal assemblages. Still, we observed a direct impact of phosphorus fertilization on its concentration in the fern leaves. We conclude that fern-fungi relationships in the study site are not restricted by nutrient availability and suggest the existence of little specificity on the fungal partners relative to the host fern species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thais Guillen
- Department of Systematic and Evolutionary BotanyUniversity of ZurichZurichSwitzerland
| | - Michael Kessler
- Department of Systematic and Evolutionary BotanyUniversity of ZurichZurichSwitzerland
| | - Jürgen Homeier
- Faculty of Resource ManagementUniversity of Applied Sciences and Arts (HAWK)GöttingenGermany
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Pérez-Otáñez X, Rodríguez-Hidalgo R, Enríquez S, Celi-Erazo M, Benítez W, Saegerman C, Vaca-Moyano F, Ron-Garrido L, Vanwambeke SO. High-resolution prediction models for Rhipicephalus microplus and Amblyomma cajennense s.l. ticks affecting cattle and their spatial distribution in continental Ecuador using bioclimatic factors. Exp Appl Acarol 2024; 92:439-462. [PMID: 38388882 PMCID: PMC11035444 DOI: 10.1007/s10493-023-00883-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
In Ecuador, the main tick species affecting cattle are Rhipicephalus microplus and Amblyomma cajennense sensu lato. Understanding their spatial distribution is crucial. To assess their distribution, data from 2895 farms visited between 2012 and 2017 were utilized. Ticks were collected during animal inspections, with each farm's location georeferenced. Bioclimatic variables and vapor pressure deficit data were obtained from Climatologies at High resolution for the Earth´s Land Surface Areas (CHELSA) dataset. They were overlaid to develop predictive maps for each species using Random Forest (RF) models. The cross-validation results for RF prediction models showed high accuracy for both R. microplus and A. cajennense s.l. presence with values of accuracy = 0.97 and 0.98, sensitivity = 0.96 and 0.99, and specificity = 0.96 and 0.93, respectively. A carefully selected subset of bioclimatic variables was used to describe the presence of each tick species. Higher levels of precipitation had positive effect on the presence of R. microplus but a negative effect on A. cajennense s.l. In contrast, isothermality (BIO3) was more important for the presence of A. cajennense s.l. compared to R. microplus. As a result, R. microplus had a broader distribution across the country, while A. cajennense s.l. was mainly found in coastal areas with evident seasonality. The coexistence of both species in some regions could be attributed to transitional zones, whereas high altitudes limited tick presence. This information can aid in developing appropriate tick management plans, particularly considering A. cajennense s.l.'s broad host range species and R. microplus's specificity for cattle. Moreover, the predictive models can identify areas at risk of associated challenging hemoparasite, requiring special attention and mitigation measures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ximena Pérez-Otáñez
- Instituto de Investigación en Zoonosis-CIZ, Universidad Central del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador.
- Center for Earth and Climate Research, Earth & Life Institute, Université Catholique de Louvain-UCLouvain, Louvain-La-Neuve, Belgium.
| | - Richar Rodríguez-Hidalgo
- Instituto de Investigación en Zoonosis-CIZ, Universidad Central del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
- Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Central del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Sandra Enríquez
- Instituto de Investigación en Zoonosis-CIZ, Universidad Central del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Maritza Celi-Erazo
- Instituto de Investigación en Zoonosis-CIZ, Universidad Central del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Washington Benítez
- Instituto de Investigación en Zoonosis-CIZ, Universidad Central del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Claude Saegerman
- Research Unit of Epidemiology and Risk Analysis Applied to Veterinary Science (UREAR-ULiège), Fundamental and Applied Research for Animals & Health (FARAH) Center, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liege, Liège, Belgium
| | - Franklin Vaca-Moyano
- Instituto de Investigación en Zoonosis-CIZ, Universidad Central del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Lenin Ron-Garrido
- Instituto de Investigación en Zoonosis-CIZ, Universidad Central del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
- Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Central del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
- Facultad de Ciencias Agrícolas, Universidad Central del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Sophie O Vanwambeke
- Center for Earth and Climate Research, Earth & Life Institute, Université Catholique de Louvain-UCLouvain, Louvain-La-Neuve, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Alvarado-Vélez JA, Silva-Conde DI, Medina-Garcés GY, Mejía-Chávez V. Justice for rural women: An exploratory analysis of institutions and mechanisms to access justice in Chimborazo, Ecuador. Heliyon 2024; 10:e28234. [PMID: 38533050 PMCID: PMC10963642 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e28234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Access to justice is a fundamental principal of the rule of law. With this in mind, this research aims to analyze the mechanisms and barriers that women from rural areas in the province of Chimborazo, Ecuador, face when seeking justice. This investigation adopted a qualitative method approach, and was comprised of exploratory fieldwork as well as descriptive documentary analysis. The findings indicate that in this province, rural women's access to justice is facilitated through various government institutions and university legal clinics. These entities collaborate to spread awareness and offer direct legal assistance. However, despite these efforts, challenges persist, including the lack of specific data on the affected women's localities and the need for broader dissemination of available legal pathways. The study concludes that addressing these shortcomings is essential to further bolster the province's legal infrastructure and better address the intricate needs of its female population, particularly those from rural backgrounds.
Collapse
|
19
|
Orellana-Manzano A, Garcia-Angulo AC, Cordeiro FB, Carvajal-Aldaz D, Centeno E, Vizcaíno MJ, Poveda S, Garcia M, Matías-De la Cruz C, Andrade-Molina D, Mirabá M, Mehta S, Cárdenas WB. Surveillance of COVID-19 vaccines: A comprehensive analysis of the first immunization drive in Ecuador. Heliyon 2024; 10:e27464. [PMID: 38509901 PMCID: PMC10951513 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e27464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
The initial phase of the COVID-19 vaccination in Ecuador occurred between April and November 2021. Initially, it focused on priority populations, including health professionals and other front-line workers. During this period, there was limited knowledge about the vaccine's adverse effects. A non-probability, observational study was conducted among university staff in Guayaquil, Ecuador, who received the AstraZeneca vaccine (n = 423) between April and November 2021. This study aimed to compare the acute adverse reactions by doses and to report the incidence of long-term adverse reactions within the AstraZeneca group. As a result, comparing acute adverse reactions between doses, the odds ratio for local pain, headache, muscle pain, fever, and chills are statistically higher after the first dose than the second dose. Survival curves indicated these symptoms appeared mainly within the first 6 h post-vaccination. This is the first pharmacovigilance study from Ecuador that analyzes survival probabilities for the AstraZeneca vaccine's adverse effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Orellana-Manzano
- Laboratorio Para Investigaciones Biomédicas, Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, Escuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral (ESPOL), Guayaquil, Ecuador
| | - Andrea C. Garcia-Angulo
- Facultad de Ciencias Naturales y Matemáticas, Escuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral (ESPOL), Guayaquil, Ecuador
| | - Fernanda B. Cordeiro
- Laboratorio Para Investigaciones Biomédicas, Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, Escuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral (ESPOL), Guayaquil, Ecuador
| | - Diana Carvajal-Aldaz
- Laboratorio Para Investigaciones Biomédicas, Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, Escuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral (ESPOL), Guayaquil, Ecuador
| | - Elizabeth Centeno
- Omics Sciences Laboratory, Universidad Espíritu Santo, Faculty of Health Sciences, Samborondón, Ecuador
| | - María J. Vizcaíno
- Laboratorio Para Investigaciones Biomédicas, Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, Escuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral (ESPOL), Guayaquil, Ecuador
| | - Sebastián Poveda
- Facultad de Ciencias Naturales y Matemáticas, Escuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral (ESPOL), Guayaquil, Ecuador
| | - Merly Garcia
- Laboratorio Para Investigaciones Biomédicas, Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, Escuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral (ESPOL), Guayaquil, Ecuador
| | - Carmen Matías-De la Cruz
- Laboratorio Para Investigaciones Biomédicas, Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, Escuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral (ESPOL), Guayaquil, Ecuador
| | | | - Mariuxi Mirabá
- Laboratorio Para Investigaciones Biomédicas, Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, Escuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral (ESPOL), Guayaquil, Ecuador
| | - Saurabh Mehta
- Omics Sciences Laboratory, Universidad Espíritu Santo, Faculty of Health Sciences, Samborondón, Ecuador
| | - Washington B. Cárdenas
- Laboratorio Para Investigaciones Biomédicas, Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, Escuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral (ESPOL), Guayaquil, Ecuador
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Padilla L, Díaz Á, Anzules W. Eco-management of end-of-life tires: Advances and challenges for the Ecuadorian case. Waste Manag Res 2024:734242X241237104. [PMID: 38520307 DOI: 10.1177/0734242x241237104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
The aim of this research is to analyse the performance of the extended producer responsibility model for the management of end-of-life tires (ELTs) in Ecuador that has been implemented since 2013. For this research, we conducted case studies of, and subsequently, a comparative analysis between, the ELT management system in Ecuador with respect to the ELT management models in Colombia and Brazil. Our findings show that although the programme implementation represented a significant advance in Ecuador's waste management system there are important challenges that should be considered in future adaptations of the programme. Among the measures that can be adopted to improve the ELT management system are the consolidation and stimulation of the market for products made from ELT waste; promotion of other productive sectors linked to the creation of new products and sectors that generate complementary products; enhancement of the generation, socialization and access to knowledge of the waste by-products for micro-, small- and medium-sized enterprises; increase the tire consumer fee, known as 'Ecovalor' and improvement of the quality and availability of information and indicators regarding ELT management. In this sense, the experiences of Colombia and Brazil show important lessons for the Ecuadorian case.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- León Padilla
- Universidad de las Américas, Quito, Pichincha, Ecuador
| | - Ángela Díaz
- Universidad de las Américas, Quito, Pichincha, Ecuador
| | - Wendy Anzules
- Universidad de las Américas, Quito, Pichincha, Ecuador
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Fernandez-Naranjo RP, Vasconez-Gonzalez J, Izquierdo-Condoy JS, Landazuri S, Castillo D, Ortiz-Prado E. A proposed analytical approach to estimate excess daily mortality rates in Ecuador. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1250343. [PMID: 38525341 PMCID: PMC10957652 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1250343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic has proved deadly all over the globe; however, one of the most lethal outbreaks occurred in Ecuador. Aims This study aims to highlight the pandemic's impact on the most affected countries worldwide in terms of excess deaths per capita and per day. Methods An ecological study of all-cause mortality recorded in Ecuador was performed. To calculate the excess deaths relative to the historical average for the same dates in 2017, 2018, and 2019, we developed a bootstrap method based on the central tendency measure of mean. A Poisson fitting analysis was used to identify trends on officially recorded all-cause deaths and COVID-19 deaths. A bootstrapping technique was used to emulate the sampling distribution of our expected deaths estimator μ ⌢ d e a t h s by simulating the data generation and model fitting processes daily since the first confirmed case. Results In Ecuador, during 2020, 115,070 deaths were reported and 42,453 were cataloged as excess mortality when compared to 2017-2019 period. Ecuador is the country with the highest recorded excess mortality in the world within the shortest timespan. In one single day, Ecuador recorded 1,120 deaths (6/100,000), which represents an additional 408% of the expected fatalities. Conclusion Adjusting for population size and time, the hardest-hit country due to the COVID-19 pandemic was Ecuador. The mortality excess rate shows that the SARS-CoV-2 virus spread rapidly in Ecuador, especially in the coastal region. Our results and the proposed new methodology could help to address the real situation of the number of deaths during the initial phase of pandemics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Esteban Ortiz-Prado
- One Health Research Group, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de las Americas, Quito, Ecuador
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Saenz Hinojosa S, Adrian Jinam T, Hosomichi K, Romero VI. HLA allelic diversity in the Waorani population of Ecuador: Its significance to their ancestry and migration. Hum Immunol 2024:110771. [PMID: 38443236 DOI: 10.1016/j.humimm.2024.110771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
The Waorani, an isolated indigenous tribe in Ecuador, have long been characterized by limited genetic diversity, with few studies delving into their genetic background. Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) genes which are located in the human major histocompatibility complex (MHC) provides valuable insights into population evolution due to its highly polymorphic nature. However, little is known about the HLA diversity and ancestry of the Waorani population. In this study, we sequenced eight HLA genes using Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) from 134 Waorani individuals and obtained up to four-field HLA allele resolution. Cluster and phylogenetic analysis show that the Waorani are genetically distant from other Ecuador populations, but instead show genetic affinities with the Puyanawa and Terena tribes from Brazil, as well as the Mixe tribe from Mexico. The identification of alleles common within the Waorani population, previously linked to specific health conditions, notably paves the way for future association analyses. This extensive study, employing Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology, significantly enriches the sparse and segmented understanding of HLA diversity in the South American region. Our findings enhance the global comprehension of human genetic diversity and underscore the value of studying indigenous populations. Such research is vital for deepening our insights into human migration patterns and evolutionary processes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Timothy Adrian Jinam
- Department of Para-Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, University Malaysia Sarawak, Malaysia
| | - Kazuyoshi Hosomichi
- Laboratory of Computational Genomics, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Vanessa I Romero
- School of Medicine, Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Quito, Ecuador.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Castro-Rodriguez B, León-Ordóñez K, Franco-Sotomayor G, Benítez-Medina JM, Jiménez-Pizarro N, Cárdenas-Franco G, Granda JC, Aguirre-Martínez JL, Orlando SA, Hermoso de Mendoza J, García-Bereguiain MÁ. Population structure of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in El Oro: A first insight into Ecuador-Peru tuberculosis transmission. J Infect Public Health 2024; 17:527-534. [PMID: 38310744 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2024.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tuberculosis (TB) is a major public health concern in Ecuador and Peru, both settings of high burden of drug resistance TB. Molecular epidemiology tools are important to understand the transmission dynamics of Mycobacterium tuberculosis Complex (MTBC) and to track active transmission clusters of regional importance. This study is the first to address the transmission of TB between Peru and Ecuador through the population structure of MTBC lineages circulating in the Ecuadorian border province of "El Oro". METHODS A total number of 56 MTBC strains from this province for years 2012-2015 were included in the study and analyzed by 24-loci MIRU-VNTR and spoligotyping. RESULTS Genotyping revealed a high degree of diversity for MTBC in "El Oro", without active transmission clusters. MTBC L4 was predominant, with less than 2% of strains belonging to MTBC L2-Beijing. CONCLUSIONS These results may suggest that TB dynamics in this rural and semi-urban area would not be linked to highly transmitted strains like MTBC L2-Beijing from Peru, but related to TB relapse; although further studies with larger MTBC cultures collection from recent years are needed. Nevertheless, we recommend to reinforce TB surveillance programs in remote rural settings and border regions in Ecuador.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Kerly León-Ordóñez
- One Health Research Group. Universidad de las Américas, Quito, Ecuador; Yachay Tech University, Urcuquí, Ecuador
| | - Greta Franco-Sotomayor
- Instituto Nacional de Investigación en Salud Pública "Leopoldo Izquieta Pérez", Guayaquil, Ecuador; Universidad Católica Santiago de Guayaquil, Guayaquil, Ecuador
| | | | - Natalia Jiménez-Pizarro
- Departamento de Sanidad Animal. Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | | | - Juan Carlos Granda
- Instituto Nacional de Investigación en Salud Pública "Leopoldo Izquieta Pérez", Guayaquil, Ecuador
| | | | - Solon Alberto Orlando
- Instituto Nacional de Investigación en Salud Pública "Leopoldo Izquieta Pérez", Guayaquil, Ecuador; Universidad Espíritu Santo, Guayaquil, Ecuador
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Leon-Rojas JE, Veloz T, Teran J, Perez M, Arias-Erazo F, Villacis L, Velez J, Recalde R, Jiménez P, Martin M, Chis Ster I, Cooper P, Romero N. The dynamics and determinants of specific systemic and mucosal antibody responses to SARS-CoV-2 in three adult cohorts in the Ecuadorian Andes: a study protocol. F1000Res 2024; 11:1392. [PMID: 38434000 PMCID: PMC10905138 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.126577.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction There are limited longitudinal data on the systemic and mucosal antibody responses to SARS-CoV-2 from Latin America, a region severely affected by COVID-19, and where vaccine strategies have been implemented during the evolving pandemic. Objective To evaluate determinants of seroprevalence and changes in levels of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies longitudinally in adults with different levels of exposure to SARS-CoV-2 (defined a priori as low, medium, and high based on presumed occupational risk), in two Andean cities in Ecuador. Methods Longitudinal cohort study of 1,000 adults aged 18 years and older with questionnaire data and sample collection done at 0, 3, 6, and 12 months during the period 2020-2023. Observations collected included WHO-ISARIC questionnaire and peripheral blood and saliva samples for measurement of IgG and IgA antibodies, respectively. Planned analyses are tailored to the longitudinal nature of the outcomes defined by participants' antibody levels and aim at estimating their average trends with time since infection in each of the occupational groups, adjusted for demographics and calendar-time levels of SARS-CoV-2 infection in the general population. The latter reflect the impact of the national control measures such as vaccinations and movement restrictions. Importance Understanding the duration and the dynamics of waning immunity to SARS-CoV-2, in the context of exposures to emerging virus variants and immunization, will inform the implementation of targeted public health strategies in the Latin American region. Ethics and Dissemination This study will observe the bioethical principles of the Declaration of Helsinki. Informed written consent will be obtained. Samples from participants will be stored for up to three years after which they will be destroyed. The study protocol was approved by the Ecuadorian Ministry of Public Health Ethics Committee for COVID-19 Research. Antibody results will be provided to participants and participating institutions and to the national health authorities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jose E. Leon-Rojas
- Departamento de Pediatría, Obstetricia y Ginecología y Medicina Preventiva, Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona (UAB), Barcelona, Spain
- Red Grups de Recerca d’Amèrica i Àfrica Llatines (GRAAL),, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Tatiana Veloz
- Medical School, Universidad Internacional del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Jair Teran
- Medical School, Universidad Internacional del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Monica Perez
- Medical School, Universidad Internacional del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Fernanda Arias-Erazo
- Medical School, Universidad Internacional del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
- Departamento de Ciencias de la Vida y de la Agricultura, Universidad de las Fuerzas Armadas ESPE, Sangolquí, Ecuador
| | - Lizet Villacis
- Medical School, Universidad Técnica de Ambato, Ambato, Ecuador
| | - Jorge Velez
- Hospital de Especialidades Eugenio Espejo, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Ricardo Recalde
- Red Grups de Recerca d’Amèrica i Àfrica Llatines (GRAAL),, Quito, Ecuador
- Medical School, Universidad Técnica de Ambato, Ambato, Ecuador
| | - Patricia Jiménez
- Departamento de Ciencias de la Vida y de la Agricultura, Universidad de las Fuerzas Armadas ESPE, Sangolquí, Ecuador
- Grupo de Investigación en Sanidad Animal y Humana (GISAH), Quito, Ecuador
| | - Miguel Martin
- Departamento de Pediatría, Obstetricia y Ginecología y Medicina Preventiva, Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona (UAB), Barcelona, Spain
- Red Grups de Recerca d’Amèrica i Àfrica Llatines (GRAAL),, Quito, Ecuador
- Medical School, Universidad Internacional del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
| | | | - Philip Cooper
- Medical School, Universidad Internacional del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
- St George's University of London, London, UK
| | - Natalia Romero
- Red Grups de Recerca d’Amèrica i Àfrica Llatines (GRAAL),, Quito, Ecuador
- Medical School, Universidad Internacional del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Lapo-Talledo GJ. Cesarean sections and sociodemographic disparities in Ecuador: A nationwide study from hospital registries between 2015 and 2022. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2024. [PMID: 38391234 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.15435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 01/27/2024] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to analyze sociodemographic factors associated with cesarean sections (c-sections) in Ecuador. METHODS Data were extracted from the Ecuadorian National Institute of Statistics and Censuses (INEC). Multivariate binary and multinomial logistic regression analyses were performed to assess sociodemographic factors associated with c-sections overall and with each type of c-section (elective or emergency c-section). RESULTS This study included 1 118 842 in-hospital deliveries during 2015-2022 in Ecuador, of which 41.3% were c-sections. This exceeds the recommended levels of medical justified c-sections. Those who were older than 20-29 years showed a higher probability for c-sections overall. Regarding ethnicity, Montubios had 57% higher probability for c-sectioned with an adjusted odds ratio (aOR) of 1.57 and a 95% confidence interval (CI) of 1.45-1.71; while indigenous, black, and white individuals exhibited 73%, 29%, and 21% lower probabilities, respectively. However, this varied according to specific type of c-sections: black individuals had 11% higher probability of elective c-section but 44% lower probability of emergency c-section. Deliveries in private healthcare facilities exhibited significantly higher probabilities of c-sections overall (aOR 15.38, 95% CI 15.20-15.56). Higher probability of emergency c-section was also observed during 2020-2022. CONCLUSION Cesarean sections in Ecuador still exceed the recommended levels of medically justified c-sections, highlighting the importance of adopting an approach to childbirth that reduces unnecessary interventions. These results suggest an important role of sociodemographic factors, which aligns with the reported need for multicomponent and locally tailored strategies for addressing c-section overuse. The increase in c-sections during the COVID-19 pandemic (2020-2022) might suggest the influence of external health crises on maternal healthcare.
Collapse
|
26
|
Zambrano G, Tennhardt LM, Egger M, Ramírez K, Santos A, Moyano B, Curran M. Differing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on farmers and intermediaries: insights into the Ecuadorian cocoa value chain. Agric Food Econ 2024; 12:9. [PMID: 38371698 PMCID: PMC10866804 DOI: 10.1186/s40100-024-00302-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic generated diverse impacts and responses in agricultural value chains worldwide. Cocoa is a key crop for Ecuadorian exports, and the analysis of effects the pandemic had on value chain actors contributes to the understanding of their individual capacities to coping with a major shock. The purpose of this study was to assess the number and severity of impacts and responses implemented by two links in the cocoa value chain to the pandemic, based on a survey of 158 cocoa farmers and 52 cocoa intermediaries from the main cocoa-producing provinces of the northern coast of Ecuador in 2021. Surveyed farmers and part of the intermediaries form part of the sustainability program of a large Swiss chocolate manufacturer. The impacts and responses reported were grouped into seven resources according to the Activity System Approach. Then, a comparison between groups was applied using the Wilcoxon rank sum test for nonparametric data, determining the most severe impacts and effective resilience responses among the actors. The results reveal that farmers and intermediaries were similarly affected by the pandemic, reporting 21 and 16 negative impacts, respectively. Farmers experienced a higher number and severity of impacts on financial and social resources, while intermediaries on human and material resources. The strongest impact was the loss of sales, reported by 65% of farmers and 58% of intermediaries. Farmers implemented more social responses that they judged highly effective, while intermediaries implemented more human responses that they judged highly effective. Public policy should enhance the social resources of farmers by strengthening their associativity and the capacities of their members, as mechanisms to mitigate their vulnerability to future health and climate crises. The financial resources of both actors should be protected through public credit and agricultural insurance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guillermo Zambrano
- Escuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral, ESPOL, Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, Campus Gustavo Galindo Km 30.5 Vía Perimetral, P.O. Box 09-01-5863, Guayaquil, Ecuador
| | - Lina M. Tennhardt
- Research Institute of Organic Agriculture (FiBL), Frick, Switzerland
- Georges Lemaître Earth and Climate Research Centre, Earth, and Life Institute, University of Louvain, Ottignies-Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
| | - Moritz Egger
- Research Institute of Organic Agriculture (FiBL), Frick, Switzerland
| | - Karen Ramírez
- Escuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral, ESPOL, Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, Campus Gustavo Galindo Km 30.5 Vía Perimetral, P.O. Box 09-01-5863, Guayaquil, Ecuador
| | - Adriana Santos
- Escuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral, ESPOL, Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, Campus Gustavo Galindo Km 30.5 Vía Perimetral, P.O. Box 09-01-5863, Guayaquil, Ecuador
| | - Byron Moyano
- Escuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral, ESPOL, Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, Campus Gustavo Galindo Km 30.5 Vía Perimetral, P.O. Box 09-01-5863, Guayaquil, Ecuador
| | - Michael Curran
- Research Institute of Organic Agriculture (FiBL), Frick, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Fariña F, Zhao X, Novo M, Acurio G. Validating the Enright Forgiveness Inventory in Ecuador. Psych J 2024. [PMID: 38361336 DOI: 10.1002/pchj.740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Research on forgiveness is limited in Ecuador. This study validated the Enright Forgiveness Inventory-30 (EFI-30) among 960 participants in Ecuador, resulting in robust reliability and validity values. Our findings provide avenues for future research and practices.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francisca Fariña
- UNESCO Chair in Transformative Education: Science, Communication and Society, University of Vigo, Pontevedra, Spain
| | - Xiang Zhao
- School of Behavioural, Social and Legal Sciences, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Mercedes Novo
- Forensic Psychology Institute, Faculty of Psychology, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Gabriela Acurio
- UNESCO Chair in Transformative Education: Science, Communication and Society, University of Vigo, Pontevedra, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Castro-Rodriguez B, Espinoza-Andrade S, Franco-Sotomayor G, Benítez-Medina JM, Jiménez-Pizarro N, Cárdenas-Franco C, Granda JC, Jouvin JL, Orlando SA, Hermoso de Mendoza J, García-Bereguiain MÁ. A first insight into tuberculosis transmission at the border of Ecuador and Colombia: a retrospective study of the population structure of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in Esmeraldas province. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1343350. [PMID: 38384875 PMCID: PMC10879341 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1343350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective Tuberculosis (TB) is a major public health concern in Ecuador and Colombia, considering that both countries are high-burden TB settings. Molecular epidemiology is crucial to understand the transmission dynamics of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) and to identify active transmission clusters of regional importance. Methods We studied the potential transmission of TB between Colombia and Ecuador through the analysis of the population structure of MTBC lineages circulating in the Ecuadorian province of Esmeraldas at the border with Colombia. A total of 105 MTBC strains were characterized by 24-loci MIRU-VNTR and spoligotyping. Results MTBC lineage 4 is only present in Esmeraldas; no MTBC strains belonging to Lineage 2-sublineage Beijing were found despite its presence in other provinces of Ecuador and, in Colombia. Genotyping results revealed a high degree of diversity for MTBC in Esmeraldas: Neither active transmission clusters within this province nor including MTBC strains from Colombia or other provinces of Ecuador were found. Conclusion Our data suggest that tuberculosis dynamics in this rural and isolated area may be not related to highly transmitted strains but could be influenced by other health determinants that favor TB relapse such as poverty and poor health system access. Further studies including a larger number of MTBC strains from Esmeraldas are necessary to test this hypothesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Greta Franco-Sotomayor
- Instituto Nacional de Investigación en Salud Pública “Leopoldo Izquieta Pérez”, Guayaquil, Ecuador
- Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Católica Santiago de Guayaquil, Guayaquil, Ecuador
| | - José Manuel Benítez-Medina
- Departamento de Patología Infecciosa, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Natalia Jiménez-Pizarro
- Departamento de Patología Infecciosa, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | | | - Juan Carlos Granda
- Instituto Nacional de Investigación en Salud Pública “Leopoldo Izquieta Pérez”, Guayaquil, Ecuador
| | - Jose Luis Jouvin
- Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Católica Santiago de Guayaquil, Guayaquil, Ecuador
| | - Solon Alberto Orlando
- Instituto Nacional de Investigación en Salud Pública “Leopoldo Izquieta Pérez”, Guayaquil, Ecuador
- Universidad Espíritu Santo, Guayaquil, Ecuador
| | - Javier Hermoso de Mendoza
- Departamento de Patología Infecciosa, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Chakraborty R, Armijos RX, Weigel MM. Household food insecurity and physical activity behaviour in Ecuadorian children and adolescents: findings from the Ecuador 2018 National Health and Nutrition Survey (ENSANUT-2018). Public Health Nutr 2024; 27:e67. [PMID: 38305098 DOI: 10.1017/s1368980024000351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Ecuador has a high prevalence of household food insecurity (HFI) and is undergoing nutritional and epidemiologic transition. Evidence from high-income countries has reported negative or null associations between HFI and physical activity (PA) in children. It remains uncertain whether the same is true of those from low- and middle-income countries like Ecuador whose environmental and socio-demographic characteristics are distinct from those of high-income countries. We aimed to investigate the association of HFI with PA, sedentary behaviour (SB) and anthropometric indicators in children. DESIGN Cross-sectional analysis of data from the nationally representative 2018 Ecuadorian National Health and Nutrition Survey. Data were collected on HFI, PA, SB, socio-demographic characteristics and measured height and weight. Unadjusted and adjusted linear, log-binomial and multinomial logistic regression analyses assessed the relationship of HFI with PA, SB, stunting and BMI-for-age. SETTING Ecuador. PARTICIPANTS 23 621 children aged 5-17 years. RESULTS Marginal and moderate-severe HFI was prevalent in 24 % and 20 % of the households, respectively. HFI was not associated with PA, SB, stunting nor underweight. Moderate-severe HFI was associated with a lower odds of overweight and obesity. However, adjustment for household assets attenuated this finding for overweight (adjusted OR:0·90, 95 % CI: 0·77, 1·05) and obesity (adjusted OR: 0·88, 95 % CI: 0·71, 1·08). CONCLUSION HFI is a burden in Ecuadorian households, but is not associated with PA, SB nor anthropometric indicators in children aged 5-17 years. However, a concerning prevalence of insufficient PA was reported, emphasising the critical need for evidence-based interventions aimed at promoting PA and reducing SB.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rishika Chakraborty
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Indiana University-Bloomington School of Public Health, 1025 E 7th St, Bloomington, IN47405, USA
- Global Environmental Health Research Laboratory, Indiana University-Bloomington School of Public Health, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - Rodrigo X Armijos
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Indiana University-Bloomington School of Public Health, 1025 E 7th St, Bloomington, IN47405, USA
- Global Environmental Health Research Laboratory, Indiana University-Bloomington School of Public Health, Bloomington, IN, USA
- Center for Latin American & Caribbean Studies, Indiana University-Bloomington, Bloomington, IN, USA
- IU Center for Global Health, Indiana University-Bloomington, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - M Margaret Weigel
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Indiana University-Bloomington School of Public Health, 1025 E 7th St, Bloomington, IN47405, USA
- Global Environmental Health Research Laboratory, Indiana University-Bloomington School of Public Health, Bloomington, IN, USA
- Center for Latin American & Caribbean Studies, Indiana University-Bloomington, Bloomington, IN, USA
- IU Center for Global Health, Indiana University-Bloomington, Bloomington, IN, USA
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Kelly JP, Cole E, Sakazaki A, Herrera-Céspedes C, Bates BR. Painting the Way Forward: An Ecological Cultural Visual Analysis of Anti-VAW Public Art in Rural Ecuador. Violence Against Women 2024:10778012241228289. [PMID: 38304980 DOI: 10.1177/10778012241228289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
Despite efforts within Ecuador to combat violence against women (VAW), the country still claims some of the highest rates of violence in the Americas. In this study, we complete a cultural visual analysis of anti-VAW public art in a small Ecuadorian city. Visual data is examined and interpreted by way of the social-ecological model (SEM). Specifically, our analysis considers how murals engage with the depiction of (a) VAW, (b) agentic responses to VAW, and (c) the different layers of the SEM. Our analysis identifies four specific strategies for constructing public art messaging to help achieve freedom from VAW.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- James Pepper Kelly
- School of Communication Studies, Scripps College of Communication, Ohio University, Athens, OH, USA
| | - Elizabeth Cole
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Touro University California, Vallejo, CA, USA
| | - Amy Sakazaki
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Touro University California, Vallejo, CA, USA
| | - Carolina Herrera-Céspedes
- School of Communication Studies, Scripps College of Communication, Ohio University, Athens, OH, USA
- Infectious & Tropical Disease Institute, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, Ohio University, Athens, OH, USA
- Centro de Investigación para la Salud en América Latina, Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador, Quito, Pichincha, Ecuador
| | - Benjamin R Bates
- School of Communication Studies, Scripps College of Communication, Ohio University, Athens, OH, USA
- Infectious & Tropical Disease Institute, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, Ohio University, Athens, OH, USA
- Centro de Investigación para la Salud en América Latina, Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador, Quito, Pichincha, Ecuador
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Gaus D, Conway J, Herrera D. Continuing Professional Development at Two Rural Hospitals in Ecuador. Ann Glob Health 2024; 90:4. [PMID: 38273869 PMCID: PMC10809859 DOI: 10.5334/aogh.4175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Background E-learning Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is an activity demonstrated to improve the quality of healthcare delivery. The CPD of medical and nursing staff in high income countries (HICs) is commonplace. CPD of administrative staff is less common, but increasingly frequent. In low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), CPD of any kind is infrequent, particularly in rural and remote areas. Objective The aim of this study was to describe a hospital-based e-learning CPD program for clinical and non-clinical personnel as a unique example of a successful, ongoing educational pilot, quality improvement program involving a broad cohort of employees, in a country that does not require such activities. Methods Using the online educational platform Chamilo, e-learning modules were created for eight groups including clinical and non-clinical employees. Upon completion of each module, one to two paragraph discussions were provided for each incorrect answer submitted. Two additional chances were offered for the employee to achieve a passing score of 70%. This study reports on the first 10-month period of the program. Findings All participants achieved the 70% passing threshold after the first or second attempt. There was 100% participation by the employees required to complete the e-learning modules. Employee feedback suggested the modules were good for continuing education, but some felt the CPD was imposed on them. Conclusion E-learning CPD is an important and emerging element for CPD and may provide opportunities for healthcare service quality improvement as part of broader pedagogical modalities, such as conferences and directed readings, in rural and remote areas of LMICs. These pilot programs could provide important information to develop Spanish-language e-learning CPD programs across a broader region, promote collaboration with regional professional societies, and possibly contribute to the establishment of national health program CPD standards.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David Gaus
- Andean Health & Development, US
- Ecuador, Brisas de Colorado, Sector 1, Via Quininde, Santo Domingo de las Tsachilas, Ecuador
| | - James Conway
- SMPH Office of Global Health, University of Wisconsin–Madison, School of Medicine & Public Health, 750 Highland Ave, Madison, WI 53726, US
| | - Diego Herrera
- Ecuador, Brisas de Colorado, Sector 1, Via Quininde, Santo Domingo de las Tsachilas, Ecuador
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Lapo-Talledo GJ. Nationwide study of in-hospital maternal mortality in Ecuador, 2015-2022. Rev Panam Salud Publica 2024; 48:e5. [PMID: 38226151 PMCID: PMC10787519 DOI: 10.26633/rpsp.2024.5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective This study aimed to analyze estimates of in-hospital delivery-related maternal mortality and sociodemographic factors influencing this mortality in Ecuador during 2015 to 2022. Methods Data from publicly accessible registries from the Ecuadorian National Institute of Statistics and Censuses were analyzed. Maternal mortality ratios (MMRs) were calculated, and bivariate and multivariate logistic regression models were used to obtain unadjusted and adjusted odds ratios. Results There was an increase in in-hospital delivery-related maternal deaths in Ecuador from 2015 to 2022: MMRs increased from 3.70 maternal deaths/100 000 live births in 2015 to 32.22 in 2020 and 18.94 in 2022. Manabí province had the highest rate, at 84.85 maternal deaths/100 000 live births between 2015 and 2022. Women from ethnic minorities had a higher probability of in-hospital delivery-related mortality, with an adjusted odds ratio (AOR) of 9.59 (95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 6.98 to 13.18). More maternal deaths were also observed in private health care facilities (AOR: 1.99, 95% CI: 1.4 to 2.84). Conclusions Efforts to reduce maternal mortality have stagnated in recent years. During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, an increase in maternal deaths in hospital settings was observed in Ecuador. Although the pandemic might have contributed to the stagnation of maternal mortality estimates, socioeconomic, demographic and clinical factors play key roles in the complexity of trends in maternal mortality. The results from this study emphasize the importance of addressing not only the medical aspects of care but also the social determinants of health and disparities in the health care system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- German Josuet Lapo-Talledo
- School of MedicineFaculty of Health SciencesTechnical University of ManabíPortoviejoEcuadorSchool of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Technical University of Manabí, Portoviejo, Ecuador
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Paz-Cruz E, Cadena-Ullauri S, Guevara-Ramírez P, Ruiz-Pozo VA, Tamayo-Trujillo R, Simancas-Racines D, Zambrano AK. Thyroid cancer in Ecuador: A genetic variants review and a cross-sectional population-based analysis before and after COVID-19 pandemic. Heliyon 2024; 10:e23964. [PMID: 38226262 PMCID: PMC10788530 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e23964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Objectives The purpose of this study is to describe the genetic variants present in the Ecuadorian population and the incidence and mortality patterns of thyroid cancer in Ecuador from 2016 to 2021. Methods The present research constitutes a nationwide cross-sectional study encompassing all reported cases of thyroid cancer (C-73) in Ecuador from 2016 to 2021. Incidence rates were calculated based on the annual population at risk, considering factors such as ethnicity, sex, age group, and the geographic location of the incidence. All data was collected from the Hospital Discharge Statistics and the Statistical Registry of General Deaths Databases. Results Between 2016 and 2021, a total of 20,297 hospital admissions and 921 deaths attributed to thyroid cancer were reported in Ecuador. The incidence of thyroid cancer remained relatively stable from 2016 to 2019. However, there was a notable decrease in 2020, followed by an increase in 2021. Notably, thyroid cancer prevalence rates were found to be higher in highlands regions. Moreover, two genetic variants, the BRAFV600E and KITL678F, have been identified in the Ecuadorian population. It is noteworthy that women exhibited a higher susceptibility to thyroid cancer, being five times more likely than men to develop this condition. Conclusion Ecuador exhibits one of the highest global incidences of thyroid cancer. Consequently, describing the genetic variants and epidemiological characteristics of thyroid cancer is imperative for enhancing healthcare access and formulating evidence-based public health policies. This research contributes towards a comprehensive understanding of thyroid cancer in the Ecuadorian context, aiming to improve targeted interventions and health outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elius Paz-Cruz
- Centro de Investigación Genética y Genómica, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud Eugenio Espejo, Universidad UTE. Mariana de Jesús Ave, no number, Quito, Pichincha, 170129, Ecuador
| | - Santiago Cadena-Ullauri
- Centro de Investigación Genética y Genómica, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud Eugenio Espejo, Universidad UTE. Mariana de Jesús Ave, no number, Quito, Pichincha, 170129, Ecuador
| | - Patricia Guevara-Ramírez
- Centro de Investigación Genética y Genómica, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud Eugenio Espejo, Universidad UTE. Mariana de Jesús Ave, no number, Quito, Pichincha, 170129, Ecuador
| | - Viviana A. Ruiz-Pozo
- Centro de Investigación Genética y Genómica, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud Eugenio Espejo, Universidad UTE. Mariana de Jesús Ave, no number, Quito, Pichincha, 170129, Ecuador
| | - Rafael Tamayo-Trujillo
- Centro de Investigación Genética y Genómica, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud Eugenio Espejo, Universidad UTE. Mariana de Jesús Ave, no number, Quito, Pichincha, 170129, Ecuador
| | - Daniel Simancas-Racines
- Centro de Investigación en Salud Pública y Epidemiología Clínica (CISPEC). Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud Eugenio Espejo, Universidad UTE. Mariana de Jesús Ave, no number, Quito, Pichincha, 170129, Ecuador
| | - Ana Karina Zambrano
- Centro de Investigación Genética y Genómica, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud Eugenio Espejo, Universidad UTE. Mariana de Jesús Ave, no number, Quito, Pichincha, 170129, Ecuador
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Real-Jaramillo S, Bustillos JJ, Moncayo AL, Neira M, Fárez L, Beltrán E, Ocaña-Mayorga S. Phenotypic resistance not associated with knockdown mutations (kdr) in Anopheles albimanus exposed to deltamethrin in southern coastal Ecuador. Malar J 2024; 23:17. [PMID: 38217047 PMCID: PMC10787486 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-023-04818-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Decrease in malaria rates (e.g. incidence and cases) in Latin America maintains this region on track to achieve the goal of elimination. During the last 5 years, three countries have been certified as malaria free. However, the region fails to achieve the goal of 40% reduction on malaria rates and an increase of cases has been reported in some countries, including Ecuador. This scenario has been associated with multiple causes, such as decrease of funding to continue anti-malarial programmes and the development of insecticide resistance of the main malaria vectors. In Ecuador, official reports indicated phenotypic resistance in Aedes aegypti and Anopheles albimanus to deltamethrin and malathion, particularly in the coastal areas of Ecuador, however, information about the mechanisms of resistance have not been yet elucidated. This study aims to evaluate phenotypic response to deltamethrin and its relationship with kdr mutations in An. albimanus from two localities with different agricultural activities in southern coastal Ecuador. METHODS The CDC bottle assay was carried out to evaluate the phenotypic status of the mosquito's population. Sequencing the voltage gated sodium channel gene (VGSC) sought knockdown mutations (kdr) in codons 1010, 1013 and 1014 associated with resistance. RESULTS Phenotypic resistance was found in Santa Rosa (63.3%) and suspected resistance in Huaquillas (82.1%); with females presenting a higher median of knockdown rate (83.7%) than males (45.6%). No statistical differences were found between the distributions of knockdown rate for the two localities (p = 0.6048) which indicates no influence of agricultural activity. Although phenotypic resistance was confirmed, genetic analysis demonstrate that this resistance was not related with the kdr mechanism of the VGSC gene because no mutations were found in codons 1010 and 1013, while in codon 1014, 90.6% showed the susceptible sequence (TTG) and 7.3% ambiguous nucleotides (TKK and TYG). CONCLUSIONS These results highlighted the importance of continuous monitoring of resistance in malaria vectors in Ecuador, particularly in areas that have reported outbreaks during the last years. It is also important to elucidate the mechanism involved in the development of the resistance to PYs to propose alternative insecticides or strategies for vector control in areas where resistance is present.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sebasthian Real-Jaramillo
- Centro de Investigación para la Salud en América Latina, Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador, Calle Pambacienda y San Pedro del Valle, Campus Nayón, 170530, Nayón, Ecuador
| | - Juan J Bustillos
- Centro de Investigación para la Salud en América Latina, Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador, Calle Pambacienda y San Pedro del Valle, Campus Nayón, 170530, Nayón, Ecuador
| | - Ana L Moncayo
- Centro de Investigación para la Salud en América Latina, Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador, Calle Pambacienda y San Pedro del Valle, Campus Nayón, 170530, Nayón, Ecuador
| | - Marco Neira
- Centro de Investigación para la Salud en América Latina, Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador, Calle Pambacienda y San Pedro del Valle, Campus Nayón, 170530, Nayón, Ecuador
- The Cyprus Institute, Climate and Atmosphere Research Center (CARE-C), Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Leonardo Fárez
- Laboratorio de Referencia Intermedio de Entomología CZ707D02, Ministerio de Salud Pública de Ecuador, Machala, Ecuador
| | - Efraín Beltrán
- Unidad Académica de Ciencias Químicas y de La Salud, Universidad Técnica de Machala, Machala, Ecuador
| | - Sofía Ocaña-Mayorga
- Centro de Investigación para la Salud en América Latina, Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador, Calle Pambacienda y San Pedro del Valle, Campus Nayón, 170530, Nayón, Ecuador.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Cevallos-Gordon A, Molina CA, Radman N, Ron L, Gamboa MI. Prevalence and Risk Factors of Eimeria spp. in Broiler Chickens from Pichincha and Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas, Ecuador. Pathogens 2024; 13:48. [PMID: 38251355 PMCID: PMC10820216 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens13010048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Coccidiosis in chickens is a parasitic disease of economic importance for the poultry industry. In Ecuador, there is limited information regarding the prevalence of Eimeria spp. on commercial broiler farms. Therefore, a total of 155 poultry farms in the provinces of Pichincha and Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas were surveyed. The analysis of fresh fecal samples was conducted to determine the parasitic load of six of the seven chicken Eimeria species (excluding E. mitis) through multiplex PCR. Additionally, an epidemiological survey was performed to assess the risk factors associated with the infection using a multivariable logistic regression model. All samples tested positive for the presence of Eimeria spp., despite the farmers having implemented prophylactic measures, and no clinical coccidiosis cases were recorded. The parasitic load varied between 25 and 69,900 oocyst per gram. The species prevalence was as follows: Eimeria spp. 100%, E. maxima 80.4%, E. acervulina 70.6%, E. praecox 55.4%, E. tenella 53.6%, E. necatrix 52.2%, and E. brunetti 30.8%. The main species combination was E. cervuline, E. maxima, E. necatrix, and E. praecox (23.90%), followed by E. tenella, as a unique species (10.69%), and then E. acervulina, E. maxima, and E. praecox (8.81%). It was observed that farms operated by independent producers had a higher amount of Eimeria spp. and higher probability of the presence of E. brunetti, E. necatrix, E. praecox, and E. tenella. Poultry houses located below 1300 m above sea level were associated with a higher parasitic load and the presence of E. brunetti. Birds younger than 35 days of age and from open-sided poultry houses (with rudimentary environmental control) had a higher probability of presenting E. maxima. Drinking water from wells increased the risk of E. praecox presence. Research aimed at designing control strategies to improve health management on poultry farms in the region would help minimize the impact of coccidiosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Cevallos-Gordon
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Central University of Ecuador, Quito 170521, Ecuador; (C.A.M.); (L.R.)
- Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, The National University of La Plata, La Plata B1900AFW, Argentina;
| | - C. Alfonso Molina
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Central University of Ecuador, Quito 170521, Ecuador; (C.A.M.); (L.R.)
- Institute of Public Health and Zoonotic Research, Central University of Ecuador, Quito 170521, Ecuador
| | - Nilda Radman
- Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, The National University of La Plata, La Plata B1900AFW, Argentina;
| | - Lenin Ron
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Central University of Ecuador, Quito 170521, Ecuador; (C.A.M.); (L.R.)
- Institute of Public Health and Zoonotic Research, Central University of Ecuador, Quito 170521, Ecuador
- Faculty of Agronomy, Central University of Ecuador, Quito 170521, Ecuador
| | - María Ines Gamboa
- Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, The National University of La Plata, La Plata B1900AFW, Argentina;
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Noroña DM, Chamba WD, Santamaria SR, Sosa MC, Carrera LL, Rodríguez FA, Martinez MA, Izquierdo-Condoy JS. Clinical profiling of pediatric microtia patients: A cross-sectional analysis at a leading pediatric hospital in Ecuador (2015-2022). Birth Defects Res 2024; 116:e2298. [PMID: 38277412 DOI: 10.1002/bdr2.2298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Microtia is a frequent congenital deformity of the pinna, often with hearing loss. This study reviews the clinical profiles of microtia pediatric patients treated at a referral hospital in Quito, Ecuador, from 2015 to 2022. METHODS A cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out based on the analysis of medical records of pediatric patients with microtia treated between January 2015 and December 2022 at the Hospital Pediátrico Baca Ortiz in Quito, Ecuador. Descriptive statistics were used, and the Chi-square test assessed associations between categorical variables. RESULTS Of the 235 patients evaluated, 59.6% were male, 83.4% lived at high altitudes (2500-3500 m), and 19.1% had a family history of microtia. Grade III microtia was diagnosed in 63.8%, predominantly on the right side. Nearly all (99.1%) had hearing loss. Other anatomical alterations were observed in 27.7%, primarily the preauricular appendage. Bone vibrator implantation was a common treatment for 24.3%. Altitude did not show a significant correlation with microtia characteristics. CONCLUSIONS Most patients had grade III microtia with associated hearing loss. Despite the high prevalence at elevated altitudes, no significant altitude-disease correlation was found. The study highlights the need for further research on microtia in regions like Ecuador.
Collapse
|
37
|
Torres I, Villalba JJ, López-Cevallos DF, Galea S. Governmental institutionalization of corporate influence on national nutrition policy and health: a case study of Ecuador. Lancet Reg Health Am 2024; 29:100645. [PMID: 38298501 PMCID: PMC10829353 DOI: 10.1016/j.lana.2023.100645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
Corporate influence in policy and decision-making is an important public health concern. This Health Policy paper reviews Ecuador's child malnutrition strategy instruments, approved between 2020 and 2023, to identify how private interests are becoming legally integrated into the public sector. Evidence indicates that recent changes are enabling corporations to promote their brands, gain tax deductions, oversee public policy and set priorities, allocate resources, and decide on implementation of the country's child malnutrition strategy. Further, corporate representatives are active members of an advisory council, free from scrutiny or accountability, while being privy to undisclosed government information. Moreover, a UN agency (the World Food Program) engaged in corporate promotion of highly processed foods, illustrating the breadth of Ecuador's corporate influence scheme. Improved regulations should set clear limits to the influence of food and beverage industries in national nutrition policy, while following transparency laws in the composition and operation of Ecuador's child malnutrition strategy and related efforts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Irene Torres
- Fundacion Octaedro, El Zurriago E8-28 y Ave. De los Shyris, Quito, Ecuador
| | - José Julio Villalba
- School of Nursing, Pontifical Catholic University of Ecuador, Ave. 12 de Octubre 1076, Quito 170143, Ecuador
| | - Daniel F. López-Cevallos
- Department of Health Promotion and Policy, School of Public Health and Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA 01003, United States
| | - Sandro Galea
- Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02118, United States
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Ghahyazi K, Familiar-Lopez I, Culbert O, Uruchima J, Van Engen A, Cevallos W, Eisenberg JNS, Levy K, Lee GO. Correlates of maternal depression, anxiety and functioning across an urban-rural gradient in northern Ecuador. Glob Public Health 2024; 19:2291697. [PMID: 38084739 PMCID: PMC10787496 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2023.2291697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
Maternal depression remains under characterised in many low- and middle-income countries, especially in rural settings. We aimed to describe maternal depression and anxiety symptoms in rural and urban communities in northern Ecuador and to identify socioeconomic and demographic factors associated with these symptoms. Data from 508 mothers participating in a longitudinal cohort study were included. Depression and anxiety symptoms were assessed using the Hopkins Symptom Checklist (HSCL-25), and maternal psychological functioning was assessed using a checklist of daily activities. Tobit regression models were used to examine associations with sociodemographic variables and urbanicity. The median HSCL-25 score was 1.2 (IQR: 0.4) and 14% of women scored above the threshold for clinically relevant symptoms. Rural women reported similar food insecurity, less education, younger age of first pregnancy, and lower socio-economic status compared to their urban counterparts. After adjusting for these factors, rural women reported lower HSCL-25 scores compared to women lin urban areas (β = -0.48, 95%CI:0.65, -0.31). Rural residence was also associated with lower depression and anxiety HSCL-25 sub-scale scores, and similar levels of maternal functioning, compared to urban residence. Our results suggest that both household and community-level factors are risk factors for maternal depression and anxiety in this context.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kiana Ghahyazi
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | | | - Oriana Culbert
- Rutgers Global Health Institute and Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | - Jessica Uruchima
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Amanda Van Engen
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - William Cevallos
- Instituto de Biomedicina, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Central del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Joseph N S Eisenberg
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Karen Levy
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, School of Public Health, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Gwenyth O Lee
- Rutgers Global Health Institute and Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Cherrez‐Ojeda I, Bousquet J, Sarfraz Z, Sarfraz A, Rodriguez Gonzales M, Bedbrook A, Rosario N, Zepeda‐Ortega B, Guidos G, Alcivar Molina U, Felix M, Vanegas E, Robles‐Velasco K, Zimmermann LJ, Gavilanes AWD. Exploring the role of information and communication technologies in allergic rhinitis in specialist centers: Patient perspectives on usefulness, value, and impact on healthcare. Clin Transl Allergy 2024; 14:e12325. [PMID: 38282193 PMCID: PMC10799206 DOI: 10.1002/clt2.12325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Information and communication technologies (ICTs) improve patient-centered care and are routinely used in Allergic Rhinitis (AR), but patients' preferences and attitudes are unexplored. This study examines AR-related information preferences and ICT use by AR patients. METHODS A survey-based cross-sectional study was carried out in Ecuador from July to September 2019 in seven centers of reference for allergic disease. Participants were 18 years or older, diagnosed with AR and had access to ICT and the Internet. Descriptive and binomial logistic regressions were performed. A value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS 217 patients were included. 47% (n = 102) used ICTs to learn about AR, of which 38.2% (n = 83) found it useful. Most of participants (75%, n = 164) did not think that ICTs reduce their need to see a doctor. Individuals with poorer quality of life were more likely to utilize ICTs to contact their doctor (OR 1.27, 95% CI 1.04-1.55), and more likely to be interested in AR-related content (OR 1.23, 95% CI 1.00-1.52). Patients with long-term AR or other allergies were less likely to use ICTs (OR 0.92 and OR 0.40 respectively). Higher education and lower quality of life may increase AR apps adoption (OR 4.82, 95% CI 1.11-21.00). Academic preparation five-fold increased ICT use for health provider communication (OR 5.29, 95% CI 1.18-23.72). Mild-persistent AR enhanced the probabilities of using ICTs to share experiences and communicate with other patients (OR 12.59, 95% CI 1.32-120.35). CONCLUSIONS Our study emphasizes the importance of tailoring digital resources to patient needs by considering factors such as quality of life, education, and specific subgroups within the AR patient population. Additionally, the findings suggest that while ICTs can play a valuable role in patient education and support, they should complement, rather than replace, traditional medical care for many AR patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Cherrez‐Ojeda
- Universidad Espíritu SantoSamborondónEcuador
- Respiralab Research GroupGuayaquilEcuador
| | - Jean Bousquet
- Institute of AllergologyCharité – Universitätsmedizin BerlinCorporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt‐Universität zu BerlinBerlinGermany
- Fraunhofer Institute for Translational Medicine and Pharmacology ITMPAllergology and ImmunologyBerlinGermany
- University Hospital of MontpellierMontpellierFrance
| | - Zouina Sarfraz
- Research and PublicationsFatima Jinnah Medical UniversityLahorePakistan
| | - Azza Sarfraz
- Pediatrics and Child HealthThe Aga Khan UniversityKarachiPakistan
| | - Monica Rodriguez Gonzales
- Urticaria Center of Reference and Excellence (UCARE)Department of AllergyHospital Español de MéxicoMexico CityMexico
| | | | | | - Benjamin Zepeda‐Ortega
- Pediatric Allergist Private PracticeAngeles Lomas Hospital Huixquilucan Mexican StateMexico CityMexico
| | - Guillermo Guidos
- Department of ImmunologySchool of MedicineInstituto Politecnico NacionalGustavo A. MaderoCDMXMexico CityMexico
| | | | - Miguel Felix
- Universidad Espíritu SantoSamborondónEcuador
- Respiralab Research GroupGuayaquilEcuador
| | - Emanuel Vanegas
- Universidad Espíritu SantoSamborondónEcuador
- Respiralab Research GroupGuayaquilEcuador
| | - Karla Robles‐Velasco
- Universidad Espíritu SantoSamborondónEcuador
- Respiralab Research GroupGuayaquilEcuador
| | - Luc J. Zimmermann
- School for Oncology & Developmental Biology (GROW)University of MaastrichtMaastrichtNetherlands
| | - Antonio W. D. Gavilanes
- School for Oncology & Developmental Biology (GROW)University of MaastrichtMaastrichtNetherlands
- Instituto de Investigación E Innovación en Salud IntegralLaboratorio de BiomedicinaFacultad de Ciencias MédicasUniversidad Católica de Santiago de GuayaquilGuayaquilEcuador
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Acosta-España JD. Unmasking carbapenemases molecular patterns in Ecuador: An analysis of Gram-negative bacteria, 2014-2022. New Microbes New Infect 2024; 56:101211. [PMID: 38187215 PMCID: PMC10767208 DOI: 10.1016/j.nmni.2023.101211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
|
41
|
Yeager J, Gómez-Jaramillo AM, Ortiz-Prado E, Calvopiña M, Chan BK. Phage therapy: resurrecting a historical solution for the contemporary challenge of rising antibiotic resistance in Latin America. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2024; 22:19-23. [PMID: 38217395 DOI: 10.1080/14787210.2024.2305842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Antimicrobial resistance in Latin America is a growing concern in both human and non-human animal populations. The economic burden that is likely to be imposed through increased resistance will cause further strains on public health systems and the population at large. AREAS COVERED We propose the rapid adoption and implementation of phage therapy as a necessary addition to the medical arsenal to help mitigate antimicrobial resistance, with an emphasis on considering the potential benefits that highly biodiverse countries such as Ecuador may have on phage discovery. However, programs may count on limited government support and/or facilitation, which could slow progress. EXPERT OPINION We highlight the need for educational campaigns to be implemented in parallel with the development of phage therapy programs, particularly to implement these novel treatments in rural and indigenous communities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Justin Yeager
- Biodiversidad Medio Ambiente y Salud, Universidad de Las Américas (UDLA), Quito, Ecuador
| | - Ana María Gómez-Jaramillo
- Postgraduate Program in Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Centro de Investigación para la Salud en América Latina (CISeAL), Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Esteban Ortiz-Prado
- OneHealth Research Group, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad De Las Américas (UDLA), Quito, Ecuador
| | - Manuel Calvopiña
- OneHealth Research Group, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad De Las Américas (UDLA), Quito, Ecuador
| | - Benjamin K Chan
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Mejía L, Espinosa-Mata E, Freire AL, Zapata S, González-Candelas F. Listeria monocytogenes, a silent foodborne pathogen in Ecuador. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1278860. [PMID: 38179446 PMCID: PMC10764610 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1278860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Listeria monocytogenes is a foodborne pathogen that can produce serious, even fatal, infections. Among other foods, it can be found in unpasteurized dairy and ready-to-eat products. Surveillance of L. monocytogenes is of great interest since sources of infection are difficult to determine due to the long incubation period, and because the symptoms of listeriosis are similar to other diseases. We performed a genomic study of L. monocytogenes isolated from fresh cheeses and clinical samples from Ecuador. Sixty-five isolates were evaluated and sequenced, 14 isolates from cheese samples and 20 from clinical listeriosis cases from the National Institute of National Institute of Public Health Research, and 31 isolates from artisanal cheese samples from 8 provinces. All isolates exhibited heterogeneous patterns of the presence of pathogenicity islands. All isolates exhibited at least 4 genes from LIPI-1, but all references (26 L. monocytogenes closed genomes available in the NCBI database) showed the complete island, which encompasses 5 genes but is present in only two Ecuadorian isolates. Most isolates lacked gene actA. Genes from LIPI-2 were absent in all isolates. LIPI-3 and LIPI-4 were present in only a few references and isolates. With respect to the stress survival islets, our samples either presented SSI-1 or SSI-F2365, except for one isolate that presented SSI-F2365 and also one gene from SSI-1. None of the samples presented SSI-2. The predominant ST (sequence type) was ST2 (84.62% 55/65), and the only ST found in food (93.33% 42/45) and clinical samples (65% 13/20). Isolates were not grouped according to their sampling origin, date, or place in a phylogenetic tree obtained from the core alignment. The presence of ST2 in food and clinical samples, with high genomic similarity, suggests a foodborne infection risk linked to the consumption of fresh cheeses in Ecuador.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lorena Mejía
- Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales, Instituto de Microbiología, Universidad San Francisco de Quito USFQ, Quito, Ecuador
- Institute for Integrative Systems Biology, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
- Joint Research Unit “Infection and Public Health” FISABIO-University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Estefanía Espinosa-Mata
- Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales, Instituto de Microbiología, Universidad San Francisco de Quito USFQ, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Ana Lucía Freire
- Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales, Instituto de Microbiología, Universidad San Francisco de Quito USFQ, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Sonia Zapata
- Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales, Instituto de Microbiología, Universidad San Francisco de Quito USFQ, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Fernando González-Candelas
- Institute for Integrative Systems Biology, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
- Joint Research Unit “Infection and Public Health” FISABIO-University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
- CIBER (Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red) in Epidemiology and Public Health, Valencia, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Fors M, González P, Jacho S, Mena-Tudela D, Falcón K. Unveiling the intersection: exploring obstetric violence in the Era of COVID-19 in Ecuador. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:2554. [PMID: 38129818 PMCID: PMC10734149 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-17300-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Changes to healthcare delivery organization that have occurred to protect people from the virus COVID-19 may have led to harmful consequences to pregnant women intensifying obstetric violence. Prevalence of obstetric violence in Ecuador is high with a range between 30 and 70% approximately. METHODS This cross-sectional study was performed with the participation of 1298 women who answered EPREVO questionnaire from June 2021 to January 2022. Obstetrics characteristics' relationship before and during COVID-19 were examined using Fisher exact test. RESULTS From 1598 respondents, 1284 (80.4%) gave birth before March 2020 Most of the participants (73.6%; CI:73.59-73.61) experienced obstetric violence during childbirth. Vaginal examination, enemas and genital shaving, episiotomy and cesarean section decreased significantly as well as rooming with the baby during the pandemic. Half of the women did not breastfeed the baby in the first hour but there were not statistically significant differences between giving birth before or during the infection from COVID-19. CONCLUSIONS Levels of obstetric violence in Ecuador remains high but without major differences due to the COVID-19 pandemic, however some harmful medical practices considered as obstetric violence decreased but maybe to the fear to be infected by the virus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martha Fors
- One Health Group, Universidad de Las Américas, Avenida de los Granados, Vía a Nayón, Quito, Ecuador.
| | | | | | - Desirée Mena-Tudela
- Departamento de Enfermería, Instituto Feminista. Universitat Jaume I, Castelló de la Plana, Spain
| | | |
Collapse
|
44
|
Izquierdo Condoy JS, Tello-De-la-Torre A, Espinosa Del Pozo P, Ortiz-Prado E. Advancing global health equity: the transformative potential of community-based surveillance in developing countries. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1294686. [PMID: 38131023 PMCID: PMC10733442 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1294686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
|
45
|
Ortiz-Prado E, Izquierdo-Condoy JS, Mora C, Vasconez-Gonzalez J, Fernandez-Naranjo R. Poor regulation, desperation, and misinformation, a countrywide analysis of self-medication and prescription patterns in Ecuador during the COVID-19 pandemic. Res Social Adm Pharm 2023; 19:1579-1589. [PMID: 37659922 DOI: 10.1016/j.sapharm.2023.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The rapid spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus during the early phase of the pandemic led to an unprecedented global health crisis. Various factors have influenced self-medication practices among the general population and unsubstantiated prescribing practices among healthcare professionals. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to describe trends in the purchase and sale of medicines during the COVID-19 pandemic period (2020-2022) in Ecuador, by comparing them with pre-pandemic periods. METHODS In this study, a cross-sectional design was employed to conduct a comprehensive analysis of 28 pharmacological groups, categorized according to the Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical Classification (ATC). Utilizing an integrated drug consumption database, the study examined physician prescribing data, medicine usage, and spending levels in Ecuador during the COVID-19 pandemic. The analysis involved computing absolute differences in monthly resolution, calculating excessive expenditure in comparison to previous yearly averages, and using Defined Daily Dose (DDD) methodology for internationally comparable results. Furthermore, a correlation analysis was performed to investigate potential associations between prescribed and consumed medicines and the number of new cases and deaths. RESULTS In Ecuador, the average yearly expenditure among these groups prior to the pandemic (2017-2019) amounted to $150,646,206 USD, whereas during 2020 and 2021, the same groups represented a total expenditure of $228,327,210, reflecting a significant increase. The excess expenditure during this period reached 51.4%, equivalent to $77,681,004 USD. Notably, 13% of this expenditure consisted of Over the Counter (OTC) Medicines. The study also identified a remarkable surge in sales of ivermectin, which increased by 2,057%, and hydroxychloroquine, which increased by 171%, as measured by DDD. CONCLUSIONS This study highlights the substantial consumption of medicines by the population in Ecuador during the pandemic. It is concerning that many medications were sold without proven therapeutic indications, indicating that misinformation and desperation may have led to improper prescribing by physicians and patients resorting to ineffective drugs. Moreover, since the sale of these therapeutic drugs requires a prescription, poor regulation, and a lack of control within pharmacies likely contributed to such practices.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Esteban Ortiz-Prado
- One Health Research Group, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de Las Américas, Quito, 170125, Ecuador.
| | - Juan S Izquierdo-Condoy
- One Health Research Group, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de Las Américas, Quito, 170125, Ecuador
| | - Carla Mora
- Medical Department, Quifatex, Quito, 170138, Ecuador
| | - Jorge Vasconez-Gonzalez
- One Health Research Group, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de Las Américas, Quito, 170125, Ecuador
| | - Raúl Fernandez-Naranjo
- One Health Research Group, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de Las Américas, Quito, 170125, Ecuador
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Moreira-Soto A, Bruno A, de Mora D, Paez M, Garces J, Wulf B, Sander AL, Olmedo M, Basantes Mantilla MJ, Gonzalez Gonzalez M, Orlando SA, Salgado Cisneros S, Zevallos JC, Drexler JF. Virological evidence of the impact of non-pharmaceutical interventions against COVID-19 in Ecuador, a resource-limited setting. Emerg Microbes Infect 2023; 12:2259001. [PMID: 37698611 PMCID: PMC10563623 DOI: 10.1080/22221751.2023.2259001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
Ecuador had substantial COVID-19-mortality during 2020 despite early implementation of non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs). Resource-limited settings like Ecuador have high proportions of informal labour which entail high human mobility, questioning efficacy of NPIs. We performed a retrospective observational study in Ecuador's national reference laboratory for viral respiratory infections during March 2020-February 2021 using stored respiratory specimens from 1950 patients, corresponding to 2.3% of all samples analysed within the Ecuadorian national surveillance system per week. During 2020, detection of SARS-CoV-2 (Pearson correlation; r = -0.74; p = 0.01) and other respiratory viruses (Pearson correlation; r = -0.68; p = 0.02) by real-time RT-PCR correlated negatively with NPIs stringency. Among respiratory viruses, adenoviruses (Fisher's exact-test; p = 0.026), parainfluenzaviruses (p = 0.04), enteroviruses (p < 0.0001) and metapneumoviruses (p < 0.0001) occurred significantly more frequently during months of absent or non-stringent NPIs (characterized by <55% stringency according to the Oxford stringency index data for Ecuador). Phylogenomic analyses of 632 newly characterized SARS-CoV-2 genomes revealed 100 near-parallel SARS-CoV-2 introductions during early 2020 in the absence of NPIs. NPI stringency correlated negatively with the number of circulating SARS-CoV-2 lineages during 2020 (r = -0.69; p = 0.02). Phylogeographic reconstructions showed differential SARS-CoV-2 dispersion patterns during 2020, with more short-distance transitions potentially associated with recreational activity during non-stringent NPIs. There were also fewer geographic transitions during strict NPIs (n = 450) than during non-stringent or absent NPIs (n = 580). Virological evidence supports that NPIs had an effect on virus spread and distribution in Ecuador, providing a template for future epidemics in resource-limited settings and contributing to a balanced assessment of societal costs entailed by strict NPIs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andres Moreira-Soto
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Virology, Berlin, Germany
- Tropical Disease Research Program, School of Veterinary Medicine, Universidad Nacional, Costa Rica, Costa Rica
| | - Alfredo Bruno
- National Institute of Public Health Research (INSPI), Guayaquil, Ecuador
- Universidad Agraria del Ecuador, Guayaquil, Ecuador
| | - Doménica de Mora
- National Institute of Public Health Research (INSPI), Guayaquil, Ecuador
| | - Michelle Paez
- National Institute of Public Health Research (INSPI), Guayaquil, Ecuador
| | - Jimmy Garces
- National Institute of Public Health Research (INSPI), Guayaquil, Ecuador
| | - Ben Wulf
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Virology, Berlin, Germany
| | - Anna-Lena Sander
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Virology, Berlin, Germany
| | - Maritza Olmedo
- National Institute of Public Health Research (INSPI), Guayaquil, Ecuador
| | | | - Manuel Gonzalez Gonzalez
- National Institute of Public Health Research (INSPI), Guayaquil, Ecuador
- Universidad ECOTEC, Km 13.5 Samborondon, Samborondon, EC092302, Ecuador
| | - Solon Alberto Orlando
- National Institute of Public Health Research (INSPI), Guayaquil, Ecuador
- Health Science Faculty, Universidad Espíritu Santo, Guayaquil, Ecuador
| | | | - Juan Carlos Zevallos
- Health Science Faculty, Universidad Espíritu Santo, Guayaquil, Ecuador
- Alianza para la Investigación de Enfermedades Emergentes (AIE), Quito, Ecuador
| | - Jan Felix Drexler
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Virology, Berlin, Germany
- German Centre for Infection Research (DZIF), Associated Partner Site Charité, Berlin, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Vargas Roman VC, Bezemer J, Calvopiña M, Ortega F, Salazar NB, Schallig HDFH, de Vries HJC. Multi-sensorial perceptions of risk: the aesthetics behind (muco)cutaneous leishmaniasis-related stigma in Ecuador. Anthropol Med 2023; 30:362-379. [PMID: 37781888 DOI: 10.1080/13648470.2023.2259184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Previous research on the stigma associated with cutaneous leishmaniasis, a vector-transmitted parasitic disease, focuses on aesthetic appearance affectation as the leading cause of stigmatisation. However, Indigenous populations in the hinterland of Amazonian Ecuador trigger stigma expressions by recognising (muco)cutaneous leishmaniasis, primarily through atypical smell, followed by the odd voice sound, appearance and taste. This empirical way of recognising symptoms relies on embodied forms of identifying a disease, contrasting the Western supremacy of visuality and demanding to be understood via multi-sensorial anthropology. Through ethnographic research and data retrieved from eighty-three semistructured interviews and fifteen focus groups in seven Ecuadorian ethnic groups - including six Indigenous groups in the Amazon region - this paper analyses how the sensorium is a health thermometer. Findings reveal that differentiated cultural responses to a sense of peril, contagion and social (self)rejection, understood as stigma expressions, are linked to the holistic approach to health (or well-being) shared by Indigenous populations. In forest societies, well-being is explained through successful (non-)human relationships, and disease permeates through bodies that lack balanced relations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Veronica C Vargas Roman
- Department of Social and Cultural Anthropology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Dermatology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers (UMC), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunology, Infectious Diseases Programme, Amsterdam University Medical Centers (UMC), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jacob Bezemer
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunology, Infectious Diseases Programme, Amsterdam University Medical Centers (UMC), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, Laboratory for Experimental Parasitology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers (UMC), Academic Medical Centre at the University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Fundación Misión Cristiana de Salud, Hospital Shell, Shell, Ecuador
| | - Manuel Calvopiña
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Carrera de Medicina, OneHealth Research Group, Universidad de las Américas, Quito, Ecuador
| | | | - Noel B Salazar
- Department of Social and Cultural Anthropology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Henk D F H Schallig
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunology, Infectious Diseases Programme, Amsterdam University Medical Centers (UMC), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, Laboratory for Experimental Parasitology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers (UMC), Academic Medical Centre at the University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Henry J C de Vries
- Department of Dermatology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers (UMC), Academic Medical Centre at the University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunology, Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam University Medical Centers (UMC), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service Amsterdam, Center for Sexual Health, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Valenzuela X, Hedman H, Villagomez A, Cardenas P, Eisenberg JN, Levy K, Zhang L, Trueba G. Distribution of blaCTX-M-gene variants in E. coli from different origins in Ecuador. Med Microecol 2023; 18:100092. [PMID: 38148908 PMCID: PMC10751039 DOI: 10.1016/j.medmic.2023.100092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The increasing abundance of extended spectrum (β-lactamase (ESBL) genes in E. coli, and other commensal and pathogenic bacteria, endangers the utility of third or more recent generation cephalosporins, which are major tools for fighting deadly infections. The role of domestic animals in the transmission of ESBL carrying bacteria has been recognized, especially in low- and middle-income countries, however the horizontal gene transfer of these genes is difficult to assess. Here we investigate blaCTX-M gene diversity (and flanking nucleotide sequences) in E. coli from chicken and humans, in an Ecuadorian rural community and from chickens in another location in Ecuador. The blaCTX-M associated sequences in isolates from humans and chickens in the same remote community showed greater similarity than those found in E. coli in a chicken industrial operation 200 km away. Our study may provide evidence of blaCTX-M transfer between chickens and humans in the community.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xavier Valenzuela
- Instituto de Microbiología, Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales, Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Quito, Ecuador
- Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la Americas (UDLA), Quito, Ecuador
| | - Hayden Hedman
- School for Environment and Sustainability, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, United States
| | - Alma Villagomez
- Instituto de Microbiología, Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales, Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Paul Cardenas
- Instituto de Microbiología, Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales, Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Joseph N.S. Eisenberg
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, United States
| | - Karen Levy
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Lixin Zhang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, United States
| | - Gabriel Trueba
- Instituto de Microbiología, Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales, Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Quito, Ecuador
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Eguiguren-Jiménez L, Acevedo S, Andrade JM. Examining the Relationship between Dietary Intake, Socioeconomic Status, and Systolic Blood Pressure of Adults on Hemodialysis in Quito, Ecuador. Curr Dev Nutr 2023; 7:102047. [PMID: 38162996 PMCID: PMC10756962 DOI: 10.1016/j.cdnut.2023.102047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Background In Ecuador, the number of adults on hemodialysis (HD) continues to rise. Currently, the effect dietary habits and socioeconomic status (SES) have on blood pressure is not known for those on HD. Objectives The objectives of this study focused on adults on HD in Quito, Ecuador to 1) assess the relationship between dietary intake and SES; 2) compare dietary intake to the Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative (KDOQI) guidelines; and 3) explore the relationship between dietary intake and systolic blood pressure. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted at the dialysis center within Eugenio Espejo Specialties Hospital in Quito, Ecuador between May and June 2022 among 50 adults on HD. Three 24-h recalls were used to determine average dietary intake and the 25-item Instituto Nacional de Estadística y Censos-Stratification of SES was used to determine SES. Electrolytes and 2 blood pressure readings were collected. Qualitative narrative data analysis was performed to identify themes using NVivo v12. T-tests of independence, simple, and multiple linear regressions using age and sex as confounders were conducted using R and a P < 0.05 was deemed as statistically significant. Results On an average, 76% of participants consumed <25 kcal/kg body weight energy and 64% consumed <1 g protein/kg body weight. Participants consumed less energy and protein compared with the KDOQI guidelines (P < 0.05). Positive relationships were observed with potassium and blood pressure (β = 0.020, P < 0.05) and SES with energy, protein, and phosphorus (P < 0.05). Themes that were identified as contributing to dietary intake were limited knowledge, lack of consistency with dietary information, and limited appetite. Conclusions Findings from this study indicate that the focus should be on improving energy and protein intake for this population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Eguiguren-Jiménez
- Food Science and Human Nutrition Department, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Sofia Acevedo
- Food Science and Human Nutrition Department, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Jeanette M Andrade
- Food Science and Human Nutrition Department, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Martineau DB, Fornasini M, Suárez D, Paz M, Valarezo C, Loor E, Guerrero M, Baldeon ME. Epidemiology of non-oncological high-impact chronic pain in Ecuadorian adults in 2022. Pain Manag 2023; 13:689-699. [PMID: 38193278 DOI: 10.2217/pmt-2023-0055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: There are limited data on non-oncological high-impact chronic pain (HICP) in Ecuador; we report the epidemiological characteristics of HICP. Materials & methods: In this cross-sectional study, we included a random sample of adult individuals who had cell phones. Results & conclusion: The weighted prevalence of HICP was 9.0%: 12.3% for women and 5.6% for men (p = 0.001). HICP was more frequently localized in the lower back and affected the economically active population. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs were more commonly used; however, 61% of patients indicated that the effectiveness of their management was low. Overall, HICP had a negative impact on daily life activities. The effectiveness of the current treatment was low and should include an integrated approach.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Debora B Martineau
- Postgrado de Anestesiología en la Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador (PUCE) Quito, Ecuador
- Postgrago de Anestesiología y Neurocirugia en la Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Quito Ecuador
| | - Marco Fornasini
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud y de la Vida, Universidad Internacional del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Daniela Suárez
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud y de la Vida, Universidad Internacional del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Mario Paz
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Eugenio Espejo, Universidad UTE, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Cinthia Valarezo
- Postgrado de Anestesiología en la Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador (PUCE) Quito, Ecuador
| | - Enrique Loor
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud y de la Vida, Universidad Internacional del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
| | | | - Manuel E Baldeon
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud y de la Vida, Universidad Internacional del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
| |
Collapse
|