Draft genome sequences of 12 Mycolicibacterium fortuitum isolates from human pulmonary infections in Veracruz, Mexico.

Mycolicibacterium fortuitum, a fast-growing nontuberculous mycobacterium, is a significant pathogen in healthcare-associated infections, encompassing skin, soft tissue, and pulmonary diseases. In this study, we present draft genome sequences from 12 M. fortuitum strains isolated from sputum samples from patients diagnosed with pulmonary infections in Mexico.

Mutational Dynamics Related to Antibiotic Resistance in M. tuberculosis Isolates from Serial Samples of Patients with Tuberculosis and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.

Genetic variation in tuberculosis is influenced by the host environment, patients with comorbidity, and tuberculosis-type 2 diabetes mellitus (TB-T2DM) and implies a higher risk of treatment failure and development of drug resistance. Considering the above, this study aimed to evaluate the influence of T2DM on the dynamic of polymorphisms related to antibiotic resistance in TB. Fifty individuals with TB-T2DM and TB were initially characterized, and serial isolates of 29 of these individuals were recovered on day 0 (diagnosis), 30, and 60. Genomes were sequenced, variants related to phylogeny and drug resistance analyzed, and mutation rates calculated and compared between groups. Lineage X was predominant. At day 0 (collection), almost all isolates from the TB group were sensitive, apart from four isolates from the TB-T2DM group showing the mutation katG S315T, from which one isolate had the mutations rpoB S450L, gyrA A90G, and gyrA D94G. This pattern was observed in a second isolate at day 30. The results provide a first overview of the dynamics of mutations in resistance genes from individuals with TB-T2DM, describing an early development of resistance to isoniazid and a rapid evolution of resistance to other drugs. Although preliminary, these results help to explain the increased risk of drug resistance in individuals with TB and T2DM.

Genomic epidemiology analysis of drug-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis distributed in Mexico.

Genomics has significantly revolutionized pathogen surveillance, particularly in epidemiological studies, the detection of drug-resistant strains, and disease control. Despite its potential, the representation of Latin American countries in the genomic catalogues of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), the bacteria responsible for Tuberculosis (TB), remains limited. In this study, we present a whole genome sequencing (WGS)-based analysis of 85 Mtb clinical strains from 17 Mexican states, providing insights into local adaptations and drug resistance signatures in the region. Our results reveal that the Euro-American lineage (L4) accounts for 94% of our dataset, showing 4.1.2.1 (Haarlem, n = 32), and 4.1.1.3 (X-type, n = 34) sublineages as the most prevalent. We report the presence of the 4.1.1.3 sublineage, which is endemic to Mexico, in six additional locations beyond previous reports. Phenotypic drug resistance tests showed that 34 out of 85 Mtb samples were resistant, exhibiting a variety of resistance profiles to the first-line antibiotics tested. We observed high levels of discrepancy between phenotype and genotype associated with drug resistance in our dataset, including pyrazinamide-monoresistant Mtb strains lacking canonical variants of drug resistance. Expanding the Latin American Mtb genome databases will enhance our understanding of TB epidemiology and potentially provide new avenues for controlling the disease in the region.

Prevalence of Latent Tuberculosis Infection (LTBI) in Mexican Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA).

INTRODUCTION: Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are at increased risk of developing tuberculosis, and even more so if they receive biological agents. In Mexico, the prevalence of latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) in RA diagnosed by interferon-gamma release assay (IGRA) is largely unknown. The objective was to determine LTBI prevalence and the associated risk factors in rheumatoid arthritis patients. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was performed comprising 82 patients with RA who attended the rheumatology service at a second-level hospital. Demographic characteristics, comorbidity, Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) vaccination and smoking history, type of treatment, disease activity and functional capacity were investigated. The Disease Activity Score 28 and the Health Assessment Questionnaire-Disability Index were applied for the estimate of RA activity and functional capacity. Further information was compiled from the electronic medical records and personal interviews. LTBI was determined by QuantiFERON TB Gold Plus (QIAGEN, Germantown, USA). RESULTS: Prevalence of LTBI was 14% (95% confidence interval (CI): 8.6% to 23.9%). Factors associated with LTBI were history of smoking (odds ratio (OR) = 6.63 95% CI 1.01 to 43.3) and disability score (OR = 7.19 95%CI 1.41 to 36.6). CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of LTBI in Mexican patients with RA was 14%. Our results suggest prevention of smoking and functional incapacity could reduce the risk of LTBI. Further research could endorse our results.

[Adaptation and validation of EMPODERA-TB to evaluate empowerment of patients with pulmonary tuberculosisAdaptação e validação do instrumento EMPODERA-TB para avaliar o empoderamento em pacientes com tuberculose pulmonar]. / Adaptación y validación del instrumento EMPODERA-TB para evaluar el empoderamiento en pacientes con tuberculosis pulmonar.

Objective: Adapt and validate EMPODERA-TB in order to measure empowerment of patients with pulmonary tuberculosis (TB). Methods: An instrument initially designed to measure empowerment of patients with chronic diseases was adapted and validated to measure empowerment of patients with tuberculosis. The items applicable to patients with tuberculosis were selected and adapted. Validation was performed using exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis, and internal consistency was determined using Cronbach's alpha coefficient, based on data from a sample of 49 patients of Mexican origin diagnosed with pulmonary tuberculosis. Results: The instrument comprised 19 items grouped into three dimensions: knowledge acquisition, information-sharing skills, and decision-making skills. Acceptable goodness-of-fit was observed (SRMR: 0.124; CD: 0.999); internal consistency for the three dimensions was 0.878, 0.879, and 0.808, respectively, and for the instrument overall it was 0.885. Conclusions: The instrument showed acceptable goodness-of-fit and adequate internal consistency, making it possible to measure empowerment of patients with pulmonary tuberculosis. This instrument will be useful in TB clinical practice and epidemiology in Spanish-speaking Latin American countries. It will allow implementation of strategies that improve knowledge and adherence to treatment, interactions with patients or individuals at risk of infection, and development of prevention strategies.

Objetivo: Adaptar e validar o instrumento EMPODERA-TB para medir o empoderamento em pacientes com tuberculose pulmonar. Métodos: Um instrumento elaborado inicialmente para medir o empoderamento em pacientes com doenças crônicas foi adaptado e validado para medir o empoderamento em pacientes com tuberculose. Para tanto, foram selecionados e adaptados os itens aplicáveis aos pacientes com tuberculose. A validação foi realizada por meio de análise fatorial exploratória e confirmatória, e a consistência interna foi analisada por meio do coeficiente alfa de Cronbach, com base em dados de uma amostra de 49 pacientes de origem mexicana com diagnóstico de tuberculose pulmonar. Resultados: O instrumento foi composto por 19 itens, agrupados em três dimensões: aquisição de conhecimento, habilidade de compartilhar informações e habilidade para a tomada de decisão. Observou-se um ajuste aceitável (SRMR: 0,124; CD: 0,999), enquanto a consistência interna para as dimensões foi de 0,878, 0,879 e 0,808, respectivamente, e para o instrumento como um todo foi de 0,885. Conclusões: O instrumento apresentou índices de bondade de ajuste aceitáveis e consistência interna adequada; portanto, permite mensurar o empoderamento em pacientes com tuberculose pulmonar. Este instrumento será útil para a prática clínica e epidemiológica da tuberculose nos países latino-americanos de língua espanhola, e permitirá a implementação de estratégias que melhorem o conhecimento e a adesão ao tratamento, bem como a interação com pacientes ou indivíduos em risco de contágio e, portanto, o estabelecimento de estratégias de prevenção.

Adaptación y validación del instrumento EMPODERA-TB para evaluar el empoderamiento en pacientes con tuberculosis pulmonar

[RESUMEN]. Objetivo. Adaptar y validar el instrumento EMPODERA-TB para medir el empoderamiento en pacientes con tuberculosis pulmonar. Métodos. Se adaptó y validó un instrumento, diseñado inicialmente para medir el empoderamiento en pacien- tes con enfermedades crónicas, para medir el empoderamiento en pacientes con tuberculosis. Para ello, se seleccionaron y adaptaron los ítems aplicables a los pacientes con tuberculosis. La validación se realizó mediante análisis factorial exploratorio y confirmatorio, y la consistencia interna mediante el coeficiente alfa de Cronbach, con base en los datos de una muestra de 49 pacientes de origen mexicano con diagnóstico de tuberculosis pulmonar. Resultados. El instrumento se integró por 19 ítems agrupados en tres dimensiones: adquisición de conoci- mientos, habilidades para compartir información y para la toma de decisiones. Se observó un ajuste aceptable (SRMR: 0,124; CD: 0,999), mientras que la consistencia interna para las dimensiones fue de 0,878; 0,879 y 0,808, respectivamente, y para el instrumento completo fue de 0,885. Conclusiones. El instrumento mostró índices de ajuste de bondad aceptables y consistencia interna adecuada, por lo que permite medir el empoderamiento en pacientes con tuberculosis pulmonar. Este instru- mento será de utilidad en la práctica clínica y epidemiología de tuberculosis en países latinoamericanos de habla hispana, y permitirá implementar estrategias que mejoren el conocimiento y el apego al tratamiento, así como la interacción con pacientes o individuos en riesgo de contagio y, con ello, establecer estrategias de prevención.

[ABSTRACT]. Objective. Adapt and validate EMPODERA-TB in order to measure empowerment of patients with pulmonary tuberculosis (TB). Methods. An instrument initially designed to measure empowerment of patients with chronic diseases was adapted and validated to measure empowerment of patients with tuberculosis. The items applicable to patients with tuberculosis were selected and adapted. Validation was performed using exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis, and internal consistency was determined using Cronbach's alpha coefficient, based on data from a sample of 49 patients of Mexican origin diagnosed with pulmonary tuberculosis. Results. The instrument comprised 19 items grouped into three dimensions: knowledge acquisition, informa- tion-sharing skills, and decision-making skills. Acceptable goodness-of-fit was observed (SRMR: 0.124; CD: 0.999); internal consistency for the three dimensions was 0.878, 0.879, and 0.808, respectively, and for the instrument overall it was 0.885. Conclusions. The instrument showed acceptable goodness-of-fit and adequate internal consistency, making it possible to measure empowerment of patients with pulmonary tuberculosis. This instrument will be useful in TB clinical practice and epidemiology in Spanish-speaking Latin American countries. It will allow implementa- tion of strategies that improve knowledge and adherence to treatment, interactions with patients or individuals at risk of infection, and development of prevention strategies.

[RESUMO]. Objetivo. Adaptar e validar o instrumento EMPODERA-TB para medir o empoderamento em pacientes com tuberculose pulmonar. Métodos. Um instrumento elaborado inicialmente para medir o empoderamento em pacientes com doenças crônicas foi adaptado e validado para medir o empoderamento em pacientes com tuberculose. Para tanto, foram selecionados e adaptados os itens aplicáveis aos pacientes com tuberculose. A validação foi realizada por meio de análise fatorial exploratória e confirmatória, e a consistência interna foi analisada por meio do coeficiente alfa de Cronbach, com base em dados de uma amostra de 49 pacientes de origem mexicana com diagnóstico de tuberculose pulmonar. Resultados. O instrumento foi composto por 19 itens, agrupados em três dimensões: aquisição de conhe- cimento, habilidade de compartilhar informações e habilidade para a tomada de decisão. Observou-se um ajuste aceitável (SRMR: 0,124; CD: 0,999), enquanto a consistência interna para as dimensões foi de 0,878, 0,879 e 0,808, respectivamente, e para o instrumento como um todo foi de 0,885. Conclusões. O instrumento apresentou índices de bondade de ajuste aceitáveis e consistência interna adequada; portanto, permite mensurar o empoderamento em pacientes com tuberculose pulmonar. Este instrumento será útil para a prática clínica e epidemiológica da tuberculose nos países latino-americanos de língua espanhola, e permitirá a implementação de estratégias que melhorem o conhecimento e a adesão ao tratamento, bem como a interação com pacientes ou indivíduos em risco de contágio e, portanto, o estabelecimento de estratégias de prevenção.

SLCO1B1 and SLC10A1 polymorphism and plasma rifampin concentrations in patients with co-morbidity tuberculosis-diabetes mellitus in Baja California, Mexico.

Rifampicin is one of the most important drugs for the treatment of tuberculosis (TB). Polymorphisms in SLCO1B1 and SLC10A1 genes are associated with impaired transporter function of drug compounds such as rifampicin. The relationship between genetic variation, clinical comorbidities, and rifampicin exposures in TB patients has not been completely elucidated. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of SLCO1A1 and SLCO1B1 polymorphisms in TB and TB-DM patients and to determine their relationship with rifampicin pharmacokinetics on patients from México. Blood samples were collected in two hospitals in Baja California, Mexico from February through December 2017. Sampling included 19 patients with TB, 11 with T2DM and 17 healthy individuals. Polymorphisms genotype rs2306283, rs11045818, rs11045819, rs4149056, rs4149057, rs72559746,rs2291075 and rs4603354 of SLCO1B1 and rs4646285 and rs138880008 of SLC10A1 were analyzed by Sanger's sequencing. None of the SLCO1B1 and SLC10A1 variants were significantly associated with rifampicin Cmax. TB and T2DM patients with suboptimal Cmax rifampicin levels showed wild alleles in rs11045819 and rs2291075 in SLCO1B1 SLC10A1 and SLC10A1. This is the first study to analyze SLC10A1 and SLCO1B1 polymorphisms in TB and TB-T2DM patients and healthy individuals in Mexico. Further research to confirm and extend these findings is necessary.

Evaluation of Anomalies and Neurodevelopment in Children Exposed to ZIKV during Pregnancy.

Zika virus (ZIKV) infection in pregnancy is associated with birth and developmental alterations in infants. In this study, clinical records of 47 infants whose mothers had Zika during pregnancy or clinical manifestations compatible with Zika were reviewed. A description of the infants' anomalies was established, and a neurodevelopmental assessment was performed on 18 infants, using the Evaluation of Infant Development (EDI for its initialism in Spanish) and DDST-II (Denver Developmental Screening Test II) tests. From his sample, 74.5% of the infants evaluated had major anomalies and 51.9% had minor anomalies. The incidence of major anomalies, related to trimester of pregnancy, was 84.2% for the first trimester, 77.8% for the second trimester, and 37.5% in the third trimester. A similar trend was observed in the frequency of infants without anomalies and was less evident in the incidence of minor anomalies (p = 0.016). Through neurodevelopmental assessments, EDI identified 27.8% of infants as having normal development, while 55.5% of affected infants had developmental delay, and 16.7% were at risk for developmental delay. The DDSST-II showed that 77.7% infants had delay in the gross motor and language area, 88.8% in the fine-adaptative motor area, and 72.2% in the personal-social area. In this work, children of mothers with ZIKV infection during pregnancy may have major or minor anomalies regardless of the trimester of pregnancy in which the infection occurred. The neurodevelopmental assessment shows that ZIKV can cause a developmental delay in infants with the fine-adaptative motor area being the most affected.

Influence of skin-to-skin contact on breastfeeding: results of the Mexican National Survey of Demographic Dynamics, 2018.

BACKGROUND: Skin-to-skin contact and breastfeeding initiation within the first hour after birth are key recommendations to promote breastfeeding. In Mexico, the National Survey of Demographic Dynamics 2018, known by its Spanish acronym ENADID, collected information about breastfeeding practices. The ENADID survey is probabilistic and allows results to be generalized to the entire population in Mexico. METHODS: Information from a public database featuring 26,587 mother-baby pairs was analyzed by proportions, means and associations, as well as machine learning methods, to conduct a comparison among the pairs according to immediate skin-to-skin contact after delivery status. RESULTS: Skin-to-skin contact was described by 78.7% of the mothers and was associated with receiving an explanation regarding how to give breastmilk or the breast to the baby immediately following birth [Odds ratio (OR) 6.46; 95% Confidence Interval (CI) 6.02, 6.97], initiating breastfeeding in the first hour of life (OR 2.01; 95% CI (1.84, 2.18) and a breastfeeding duration of ≥ 6 months (OR 1.16; 95% CI 1.08, 1.25). The breastfeeding duration, in days, was greater in the group with skin-to-skin contact than in the group without skin contact. CONCLUSIONS: In Mexico, immediate and uninterrupted skin-to-skin contact between newborns and their mothers should be facilitated. Support should be provided to mothers to favor skin-to-skin contact and breasting initiation during the first hour of life, ideally through an empathic explanation by trained health personnel. Future research should focus on the evaluation of strategies to modify maternity services to facilitate immediate skin-to-skin contact after delivery and develop training programs for health personnel to support the initiation of breastfeeding during the first hour of life.

Whole genome sequencing analysis to evaluate the influence of T2DM on polymorphisms associated with drug resistance in M. tuberculosis.

BACKGROUND: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has been associated with treatment failure, and the development of drug resistance in tuberculosis (TB). Also, whole-genome sequencing has provided a better understanding and allowed the growth of knowledge about polymorphisms in genes associated with drug resistance. Considering the above, this study analyzes genome sequences to evaluate the influence of type 2 diabetes mellitus in the development of mutations related to tuberculosis drug resistance. M. tuberculosis isolates from individuals with (n = 74), and without (n = 74) type 2 diabetes mellitus was recovered from online repositories, and further analyzed. RESULTS: The results showed the presence of 431 SNPs with similar proportions between diabetics, and non-diabetics individuals (48% vs. 52%), but with no significant relationship. A greater number of mutations associated with rifampicin resistance was observed in the T2DM-TB individuals (23.2% vs. 16%), and the exclusive presence of rpoBQ432L, rpoBQ432P, rpoBS441L, and rpoBH445L variants. While these variants are not private to T2DM-TB cases they are globally rare highlighting a potential role of T2DM. The phylogenetic analysis showed 12 sublineages, being 4.1.1.3, and 4.1.2.1 the most prevalent in T2DM-TB individuals but not differing from those most prevalent in their geographic location. Four clonal complexes were found, however, no significant relationship with T2DM was observed. Samples size and potential sampling biases prevented us to look for significant associations. CONCLUSIONS: The occurrence of globally rare rifampicin variants identified only in isolates from individuals with T2DM could be due to the hyperglycemic environment within the host. Therefore, further studies about the dynamics of SNPs' generation associated with antibiotic resistance in patients with diabetes mellitus are necessary.

Factors associated with tuberculosis-diabetes mellitus type 2 binomial in rural population of Oaxaca, Mexico.

INTRODUCTION: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a growing condition that hinders the treatment and control of tuberculosis (TB). Several factors promote this comorbidity showing variations according to characteristics of the population affected. The objective was to identify the factors associated with the comorbidity of TB-T2DM in a rural population of Oaxaca, Mexico. METHODOLOGY: This was an unpaired case-control study. Descriptive statistics was performed for clinical and sociodemographic variables. Logistic regression was used to calculate odds ratio (OR) to identify associated factors with TB-T2DM binomial. RESULTS: 126 controls (TB+ T2DM-) and 69 cases (TB+ T2DM+) were included. 43% were considered as indigenous population. Significant differences were found according to the groups. Treatment failure was higher in individuals with binomial (p = 0.015), as well as a higher bacillary load (two crosses) and presence of pulmonary TB (p ≤ 0.001). Association analysis showed that the risk factors of binomial were: female sex (OR = 2.47; 95% CI 1.24-4.92), age ≥ 45 years (OR = 2.90; 95% CI 1.42-5.92), body mass index ≥ 25 kg/m2 (OR = 2.69; 95% CI 1.25-5.77) and presenting > 6 symptoms (OR = 2.71; 95% CI 1.19-6.14). CONCLUSIONS: This is the first report of this comorbidity in a rural Mexican population. The results highlight the growing problem of TB-T2DM, and the need to address the issue from an integral and gender perspective. Furthermore, mandatory screening is necessary in patients with T2DM to improve early diagnosis of TB and T2DM. This would promote better management of both conditions.

Whole genome characterization, and geographical distribution of M. tuberculosis in central region of Veracruz, Mexico.

The purpose of this work was to perform by Whole Genomic Sequencing (WGS) a characterization of tuberculosis isolates circulating in the central region of Veracruz, Mexico, and to determine its geographical distribution. The genome of 25 clinical isolates of tuberculosis patients, recovered from central zone of Veracruz, Mexico, were sequenced and the information obtained was used to characterize lineage, prediction of drug resistance, identification of clonal complexes, and finally correlated with the geolocalization data. Isolates analyzed were included into seven L4 sublineages, most frequent was X3; X1 (4.1.1.3) in 35%. rpoBSer450Leu polymorphism was the most frequently found variant. Sublineage Haarlem (4.1.2) had the widest distribution, found in five municipalities. Of the of two clonal complexes found, the most abundant included eight isolates, with X3/X1 lineage, placed in two municipalities. Combination of WGS and geographic information system was very useful for the identification of sublineages, clonal complexes, and their geographical dispersion with important implications in the epidemiological surveillance and clinical control of TB.

SNPs in Genes Related to DNA Damage Repair in Mycobacterium Tuberculosis: Their Association with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Drug Resistance.

Genes related to DNA damage repair in Mycobacterium tuberculosis are critical for survival and genomic diversification. The aim of this study is to compare the presence of SNPs in genes related to DNA damage repair in sensitive and drug-resistant M. tuberculosis genomes isolated from patients with and without type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). We collected 399 M. tuberculosis L4 genomes from several public repositories; 224 genomes belonging to hosts without T2DM, of which 123 (54.9%) had drug sensitive tuberculosis (TB) and 101 (45.1%) had drug resistance (DR)-TB; and 175 genomes from individuals with T2DM, of which 100 (57.1%) had drug sensitive TB and 75 (42.9%) had DR-TB. The presence of SNPs in the coding regions of 65 genes related to DNA damage repair was analyzed and compared with the resistance profile and the presence/absence of T2DM in the host. The results show the phylogenetic relationships of some SNPS and L4 sub-lineages, as well as differences in the distribution of SNPs present in DNA damage repair-related genes related to the resistance profile of the infecting strain and the presence of T2DM in the host. Given these differences, it was possible to generate two discriminant functions to distinguish between drug sensitive and drug resistant genomes, as well as patients with or without T2DM.

Generation and persistence of S1 IgG and neutralizing antibodies in post-COVID-19 patients.

BACKGROUND: Antibody-mediated immune response plays an important role in protection against reinfection. In the case of SARS-CoV-2 infection, the maximum duration of antibody response is still unknown. In this work, the generation of neutralizing  antibodies (NAbs) and IgG antibodies against the S1 subunit (S1 IgG ) of SARS-CoV-2 and their possible duration were determined through decay models. METHODS: 132 participants with SARS-CoV-2 infection were classified according to the severity of the disease. Seroconversion and persistence of S1 IgG antibodies and NAbs were determined by ELISA, samples were taken at two different times post-infection and duration of those antibodies was estimated using Linear Mixed Models (LMMs). RESULTS: The highest amount of S1 IgGs antibodies was associated with age (41 years or older), greater severity of COVID-19 and male gender. NAbs production was associated with the same variables, except for age. The percentage of NAbs decay is higher in the asymptomatic group (P = 0.033), while in S1 IgG antibodies decay, no statistical difference was found between the 4 severity groups. An exponential decay model was built by using a LMM and similarly, two dispersion regions where constructed. The duration of S1 IgG antibodies was 744 days (668-781) for first region and 744 days (453-1231) for the second. Regarding NAbs, an adaptative LMM was used to model a logistic function, determining a duration of 267 days (215-347). CONCLUSION: Humoral immunity to SARS-CoV-2 infection depends on the severity of the disease, gender and age. This immune response could be long-lasting as for other coronaviruses.

Adaptación y validación del instrumento EMPODERA-TB para evaluar el empoderamiento en pacientes con tuberculosis pulmonar / Adaptation and validation of EMPODERA-TB to evaluate empowerment of patients with pulmonary tuberculosis / Adaptação e validação do instrumento EMPODERA-TB para avaliar o empoderamento em pacientes com tuberculose pulmonar

RESUMEN Objetivo. Adaptar y validar el instrumento EMPODERA-TB para medir el empoderamiento en pacientes con tuberculosis pulmonar. Métodos. Se adaptó y validó un instrumento, diseñado inicialmente para medir el empoderamiento en pacientes con enfermedades crónicas, para medir el empoderamiento en pacientes con tuberculosis. Para ello, se seleccionaron y adaptaron los ítems aplicables a los pacientes con tuberculosis. La validación se realizó mediante análisis factorial exploratorio y confirmatorio, y la consistencia interna mediante el coeficiente alfa de Cronbach, con base en los datos de una muestra de 49 pacientes de origen mexicano con diagnóstico de tuberculosis pulmonar. Resultados. El instrumento se integró por 19 ítems agrupados en tres dimensiones: adquisición de conocimientos, habilidades para compartir información y para la toma de decisiones. Se observó un ajuste aceptable (SRMR: 0,124; CD: 0,999), mientras que la consistencia interna para las dimensiones fue de 0,878; 0,879 y 0,808, respectivamente, y para el instrumento completo fue de 0,885. Conclusiones. El instrumento mostró índices de ajuste de bondad aceptables y consistencia interna adecuada, por lo que permite medir el empoderamiento en pacientes con tuberculosis pulmonar. Este instrumento será de utilidad en la práctica clínica y epidemiología de tuberculosis en países latinoamericanos de habla hispana, y permitirá implementar estrategias que mejoren el conocimiento y el apego al tratamiento, así como la interacción con pacientes o individuos en riesgo de contagio y, con ello, establecer estrategias de prevención.

ABSTRACT Objective. Adapt and validate EMPODERA-TB in order to measure empowerment of patients with pulmonary tuberculosis (TB). Methods. An instrument initially designed to measure empowerment of patients with chronic diseases was adapted and validated to measure empowerment of patients with tuberculosis. The items applicable to patients with tuberculosis were selected and adapted. Validation was performed using exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis, and internal consistency was determined using Cronbach's alpha coefficient, based on data from a sample of 49 patients of Mexican origin diagnosed with pulmonary tuberculosis. Results. The instrument comprised 19 items grouped into three dimensions: knowledge acquisition, information-sharing skills, and decision-making skills. Acceptable goodness-of-fit was observed (SRMR: 0.124; CD: 0.999); internal consistency for the three dimensions was 0.878, 0.879, and 0.808, respectively, and for the instrument overall it was 0.885. Conclusions. The instrument showed acceptable goodness-of-fit and adequate internal consistency, making it possible to measure empowerment of patients with pulmonary tuberculosis. This instrument will be useful in TB clinical practice and epidemiology in Spanish-speaking Latin American countries. It will allow implementation of strategies that improve knowledge and adherence to treatment, interactions with patients or individuals at risk of infection, and development of prevention strategies.

RESUMO Objetivo. Adaptar e validar o instrumento EMPODERA-TB para medir o empoderamento em pacientes com tuberculose pulmonar. Métodos. Um instrumento elaborado inicialmente para medir o empoderamento em pacientes com doenças crônicas foi adaptado e validado para medir o empoderamento em pacientes com tuberculose. Para tanto, foram selecionados e adaptados os itens aplicáveis aos pacientes com tuberculose. A validação foi realizada por meio de análise fatorial exploratória e confirmatória, e a consistência interna foi analisada por meio do coeficiente alfa de Cronbach, com base em dados de uma amostra de 49 pacientes de origem mexicana com diagnóstico de tuberculose pulmonar. Resultados. O instrumento foi composto por 19 itens, agrupados em três dimensões: aquisição de conhecimento, habilidade de compartilhar informações e habilidade para a tomada de decisão. Observou-se um ajuste aceitável (SRMR: 0,124; CD: 0,999), enquanto a consistência interna para as dimensões foi de 0,878, 0,879 e 0,808, respectivamente, e para o instrumento como um todo foi de 0,885. Conclusões. O instrumento apresentou índices de bondade de ajuste aceitáveis e consistência interna adequada; portanto, permite mensurar o empoderamento em pacientes com tuberculose pulmonar. Este instrumento será útil para a prática clínica e epidemiológica da tuberculose nos países latino-americanos de língua espanhola, e permitirá a implementação de estratégias que melhorem o conhecimento e a adesão ao tratamento, bem como a interação com pacientes ou indivíduos em risco de contágio e, portanto, o estabelecimento de estratégias de prevenção.

Whole genome characterization, and geographical distribution of M. tuberculosis in central region of Veracruz, Mexico

ABSTRACT The purpose of this work was to perform by Whole Genomic Sequencing (WGS) a characterization of tuberculosis isolates circulating in the central region of Veracruz, Mexico, and to determine its geographical distribution. The genome of 25 clinical isolates of tuberculosis patients, recovered from central zone of Veracruz, Mexico, were sequenced and the information obtained was used to characterize lineage, prediction of drug resistance, identification of clonal complexes, and finally correlated with the geolocalization data. Isolates analyzed were included into seven L4 sublineages, most frequent was X3; X1 (4.1.1.3) in 35%. rpoBSer450Leu polymorphism was the most frequently found variant. Sublineage Haarlem (4.1.2) had the widest distribution, found in five municipalities. Of the of two clonal complexes found, the most abundant included eight isolates, with X3/X1 lineage, placed in two municipalities. Combination of WGS and geographic information system was very useful for the identification of sublineages, clonal complexes, and their geographical dispersion with important implications in the epidemiological surveillance and clinical control of TB.

Genetic diversity and drug susceptibility of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in a city with a high prevalence of drug resistant tuberculosis from Southeast of Mexico.

BACKGROUND: Mexico is on the top five countries with the highest number of TB cases in America continent, nevertheless, information about genotypes circulating is practically unknown. Considering the above this study aims to characterize the genetic diversity of TB in the city of Veracruz, México. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted among positive smear samples from patients living in Veracruz City, samples were cultured, and first-line drug profiles determined. Genotyping was made by spoligotyping and MIRU-VNTR 24 loci. Associations of lineages, clusters, and variables were also analyzed. RESULTS: Among the 202 isolates analyzed resistance to at least one drug was observed in 60 (30%) isolates and 41(20%) were multidrug-resistant. Three major lineages were identified: L4/Euro-American (88%), L1/Indo-Oceanic (9%), and L2/East Asian (3%). The Euro-American lineage included more than six sublineages, the most abundant were: H (32%), T (23%), LAM (18%), and X (12%). 140 isolates (70%) were placed in 42 SITs patterns. CONCLUSIONS: These results provide the first baseline data on the genetic structure of TB in the city of Veracruz. Sublineages H, X and LAM were predominant; however, it was founded an important diversity of genotypes that could contribute to the dispersion of TB and explain the high prevalence. This information might be useful for the development of further interventions to reduce impact of TB.

Diversidad genética de Mycobacterium tuberculosis circulando en la jurisdicción V de Jalapa, Veracruz, México / Genetic diversity of Mycobacterium tuberculosis circulating in the jurisdiction V from Jalapa, Veracruz, Mexico

ANTECEDENTES: El estado de Veracruz se ubica en el sureste de México y presenta una alta prevalencia de tuberculosis (TBC) y drogo resistencia. Sin embargo, la composición de los genotipos circulantes es poco conocida. OBJETIVO: Caracterizar la diversidad genética de la TBC en la jurisdicción sanitaria V del estado de Veracruz. MÉTODOS: Estudio transversal realizado en aislados clínicos de pacientes con TBC residentes de la jurisdicción V. Se determinó la sensibilidad a medicamentos de primera línea. La genotipificación se realizó mediante espoligotipificación y MIRU-VNTR 15 loci. RESULTADOS: Entre los 74 aislados analizados se observó resistencia a un fármaco en 44 (59%) aislados. Linaje L4 (EuroAmericano) se presentó en 73 aislados. Se identificaron cinco sublinajes; H (40%), T (22%), LAM (16%), X (13%) y U (7%). El 32% de los aislados se agrupó mediante su espoligotipo y 40% en 10 complejos clonales. CONCLUSIONES: Es la primera descripción sobre la estructura genética de TBC en la región central de Veracruz. La diversidad de genotipos podría contribuir a su dispersión en la región. Esta información será útil para el desarrollo de intervenciones y reducir el impacto de TBC en la población.

BACKGROUND: The state of Veracruz is placed in southeastern Mexico and has a high prevalence of tuberculosis (TB) and drug resistance. Nevertheless, the composition of circulating genotypes in the central region of the state is partially known. AIM: To characterize the genetic diversity of TB in the sanitary jurisdiction V of the state of Veracruz. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted among clinical isolates from patients with TB living in the jurisdiction V, in Jalapa Ver., Mexico. Sensitivity to first-line drugs was determined, and genotyping was performed by spoligotyping and MIRU-VNTR 15 loci. RESULTS: Among the 74 isolates analyzed, resistance to one drug was observed in 44 isolates. L4 (EuroAmerican) was the major lineage identified. Five sublineages were the most abundant; H (40%), T (22%), LAM (16%), X (13%) and U (7%). Only 32% of the isolates were clustered by spoligotype and 40% were placed in ten clonal complexes. CONCLUSIONS: This is the first description of the genetic structure of TB in the central region of Veracruz. The diversity of genotypes could contribute to its dispersion. This information will be useful for the development of interventions to reduce the impact of TB in the population.

Potential Protection of Pre-Existent Antibodies to Human Coronavirus 229E on COVID-19 Severity.

The causes of the broad spectrum of severity in COVID-19 are unknown. A protective effect through humoral immunity from previous infections by viruses of the SARS-CoV-2 family could explain a mild form of this disease. This study aimed to address whether the presence of antibodies against human seasonal coronaviruses (HCoVs) could prevent severe manifestations of COVID-19. A cross-sectional study was carried out in 165 participants. The presence of pre-existent antibodies against the seasonal HCoV-OC43, HCoV-HKU1, HCoV-229E, and HCoV-NL63 were detected. From all of the seasonal HCoVs studied, it was only found that being seropositive to HCoV-229E presented an association (p = 0.012) with developing mild clinical symptoms of COVID-19 or being asymptomatic. Multinomial regression analysis showed that being seropositive to HCoV-229E is associated with mild or moderate clinical symptoms for COVID-19. Statistical analysis also showed that being female is associated with being asymptomatic for SARS-CoV-2 infection or developing mild COVID-19. A subgroup analysis taking only seropositive to HCoV-229E revealed that females are more likely to develop asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection (OR = 27.242, 95% CI 2.092-354.706, p = 0.012). Our results suggest that previous infections by HCoV-229E could prevent more serious clinical manifestations of COVID-19, but these are not the only variables that influence this event.

IgG Antibodies Generation and Side Effects Caused by Ad5-nCoV Vaccine (CanSino Biologics) and BNT162b2 Vaccine (Pfizer/BioNTech) among Mexican Population.

SARS-CoV-2 has rapidly generated a pandemic. Vaccines are currently being rolled out to control the viral spread and prevent deaths. Emergency vaccines, using new platforms, have been approved. Their effectiveness, safety and immunogenicity in different populations are not fully known. This study aimed to discover the immunogenicity of the messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) BNT162b2 and adenovirus vector Ad5-nCoV vaccines through IgG antibody generation against subunit 1 of protein S (S1 IgG) and assess the side effects of the vaccines. A total of 115 vaccinated people were included, 61 of whom received the BNT162b2 vaccine, while 54 received Ad5-nCoV. Measurements of S1 IgG antibodies were carried out using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique. The BNT162b2 vaccine generated S1 IgG antibodies in 80.3% of the participants after the first dose. The number of seropositive participants increased to 98.36% with the administration of the second dose. The Ad5-nCoV vaccine generated S1 IgG antibodies in 88.89% of those vaccinated. Women generated more antibodies when administered either vaccine. There were no serious adverse effects from vaccination. In conclusion, not all participants had detectable S1 IgG antibodies. The Ad5-nCoV vaccine presented the most seronegative cases. The studied vaccines were shown to be safe.