New records of Rhipicephalus linnaei infected by Rickettsia massiliae from Central Mexico.

BACKGROUND: On the American continent, Rhipicephalus sanguineus s.l. comprises two species: Rhipicephalus linnaei and R. sanguineus s.s. Each species has been identified as a potential vector of at least one of five species of pathogenic bacteria of the genus Rickettsia. In particular, Rickettsia massiliae is one of three species with the greatest importance in public health at the continental level. In Mexico, this species is reported exclusively in the Nearctic states of Baja California and Chihuahua. AIM: For this reason, the aim of this work was to provide new records of R. massiliae for the centre of the country derived from active acarological surveillance. MATERIALS AND METHODS: During the period of February-October 2019, 29 dogs from six municipalities in the state of Morelos were sampled. Hosts were visually inspected, and ticks were recovered and identified morphologically and molecularly by amplification of the 16S rDNA gene. Subsequently, five genes from members of the genus Rickettsia were amplified and sequenced. RESULTS: A total of 229 (117♀, 98♂ and 14 N) ticks identified as R. linnaei were recovered, two of which were positive for R. massiliae strains related to those recovered from Argentina and the United States. CONCLUSIONS: This work provides the second record of R. massiliae infecting R. linnaei in Mexico and the Americas, increasing the geographic distribution of this Rickettsia species in the Neotropical region, and providing information on the possible role of R. linnaei as a potential vector of this microorganism.

Molecular Factors in PAD2 (PADI2) and PAD4 (PADI4) Are Associated with Interstitial Lung Disease Susceptibility in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients.

Around 50% of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients show some extra-articular manifestation, with the lung a usually affected organ; in addition, the presence of anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPA) is a common feature, which is caused by protein citrullination modifications, catalyzed by the peptidyl arginine deiminases (PAD) enzymes. We aimed to identify single nucleotide variants (SNV) in PADI2 and PADI4 genes (PAD2 and PAD4 proteins, respectively) associated with susceptibility to interstitial lung disease (ILD) in RA patients and the PAD2 and PAD4 levels. Material and methods: 867 subjects were included: 118 RA-ILD patients, 133 RA patients, and 616 clinically healthy subjects (CHS). Allelic discrimination was performed in eight SNVs using qPCR, four in PADI2 and four in PADI4. The ELISA technique determined PAD2 and PAD4 levels in serum and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) samples, and the population structure was evaluated using 14 informative ancestry markers. Results: The rs1005753-GG (OR = 4.9) in PADI2 and rs11203366-AA (OR = 3.08), rs11203367-GG (OR = 2.4) in PADI4 are associated with genetic susceptibility to RA-ILD as well as the ACTC haplotype (OR = 2.64). In addition, the PAD4 protein is increased in RA-ILD individuals harboring the minor allele homozygous genotype in PADI4 SNVs. Moreover, rs1748033 in PADI4, rs2057094, and rs2076615 in PADI2 are associated with RA susceptibility. In conclusion, in RA patients, single nucleotide variants in PADI4 and PADI2 are associated with ILD susceptibility. The rs1748033 in PADI4 and two different SNVs in PADI2 are associated with RA development but not ILD. PAD4 serum levels are increased in RA-ILD patients.

Tick-associated diseases identified from hunting dogs during the COVID-19 pandemic in a Mayan community in Yucatan, Mexico.

Background: Hunting activity in the Mayan communities has increased due to COVID-19 and domestic dogs have gained more importance. Due to their proximity to humans, domestic dogs are a bridge between tick-borne diseases (TBDs) and humans and their peri-domestic environment. In Mexico, and especially in rural regions, there were not adequate records of TBDs during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Aim: Identify TBD of ticks collected during the COVID-19 pandemic in a rural community. Methods: Tick capture was carried out in March 2021, in Teabo, Yucatan. Ticks were removed using from domestic dogs and placed in ethanol. Collected ticks were morphologically identified and underwent DNA extraction and a partial segment of the mitochondrial 16S-rDNA gene was amplified to corroborate the tick species. The DNA was screened for the presence of Anaplasma spp., Borrelia spp., Ehrlichia spp., and Rickettsia spp. Purified amplification products were submitted for sequencing and the results were compared to those deposited in GenBank using BLAST. Results: We collected 33 ectoparasites, Ixodes affinis, Rhipicephalus sanguineus, Rhipicephalus microplus, and Amblyomma mixtum on 11 hunting dogs. The most frequent ectoparasite was R. sanguineus (66%). We detected the presence of DNA of Rickettsia endosymbiont in I. affinis and Anaplasma platys in R. sanguineus. Rickettsia endosymbiont presented a similarity of 100% with the partial sequence of R. endosymbiont of I. affinis isolate IACACTM001 16S ribosomal RNA gene and the sequence of A. platys had a similarity of 100% with the partial sequence of the isolate 23-33TX 16S ribosomal RNA gene of A. platys from dogs from Texas, USA and with the partial sequence of the isolate L134 16S ribosomal RNA gene of Ehrlichia canis from dogs from Piura, Peru. Conclusion: We confirmed for the first time the presence of A. platys in R. sanguineus and R. endosymbiont in I. affinis ticks from dogs in the state of Yucatan.

Effects of Chia Seeds on Growth Performance, Carcass Traits and Fatty Acid Profile of Lamb Meat.

The aim of this work was to supplement a diet with chia seeds (Salvia hispanica L.) based on the requirements of finishing lambs for meat, and to analyze biometric parameters and fatty acid profiles in meat. Eighteen male Rambouillet lambs with a bodyweight of 25 kg were used. Animals were kept in individual pens with water and feed provided ad libitum. Three finishing diets were designed with the inclusion of 0, 50 and 100 g dry matter chia seeds and divided among the animals (n = 6). The experimental period lasted 60 days. The weights of the individual lambs were recorded every 14 days. At the end of the experiment, the animals were slaughtered and the weights of the hot carcasses and non-meat components were registered. In addition, an analysis of the fatty acid composition was carried out in the muscles (Longissimus thoracis). The total weight gain and average daily gain displayed significant differences (p < 0.05). Initial and final bodyweights, such as the dry matter intake, did not display differences. The fatty acid profile of the meat tended to decrease the SFA (stearic acid) and increase MUFA (oleic acid) (p < 0.0001) when chia seeds were added to the lamb diets. In conclusion, chia seed supplementation did not increase meat production or other biometric parameters; however, it modified the fatty acid profile in L. thoracis.

SNPs Sets in Codifying Genes for Xenobiotics-Processing Enzymes Are Associated with COPD Secondary to Biomass-Burning Smoke.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the third leading cause of death worldwide; the main risk factors associated with the suffering are tobacco smoking (TS) and chronic exposure to biomass-burning smoke (BBS). Different biological pathways have been associated with COPD, especially xenobiotic or drug metabolism enzymes. This research aims to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) profiles associated with COPD from two expositional sources: tobacco smoking and BBS. One thousand-five hundred Mexican mestizo subjects were included in the study and divided into those exposed to biomass-burning smoke and smokers. Genome-wide exome genotyping was carried out using Infinium Exome-24 kit arrays v. 1.2. Data quality control was conducted using PLINK 1.07. For clinical and demographic data analysis, Rstudio was used. Eight SNPs were found associated with COPD secondary to TS and seven SNPs were conserved when data were analyzed by genotype. When haplotype analyses were carried out, five blocks were predicted. In COPD secondary to BBS, 24 SNPs in MGST3 and CYP family genes were associated. Seven blocks of haplotypes were associated with COPD-BBS. SNPs in the ARNT2 and CYP46A1 genes are associated with COPD secondary to TS, while in the BBS comparison, SNPs in CYP2C8, CYP2C9, MGST3, and MGST1 genes were associated with increased COPD risk.

Effect of the Supplementation Using an Herbal Mixture as a Choline Source during Early Gestation in Rambouillet Ewes.

Previous research indicates that adequate choline nutrition during late gestation improves fetal development. However, there is a lack of studies describing choline's role during early gestation. Thus, the current study hypothesizes that an herbal mixture as a source of choline (Biocholine) positively affects offspring development from ewes supplemented during early gestation. Therefore, the objectives were to evaluate the impact of biocholine on the programming of the offspring early in life through the evaluation of dams and newborn performance. Twenty-eight four-year-old Rambouillet ewes were assigned randomly to two treatments: non-supplementation and 4 gd-1 of biocholine during the early gestation. Compared with the dams without supplementation, the ewes supplemented using biocholine showed no increase in parameters such as birth and weaning weight (p > 0.05). Additionally, the milk yield and quality of colostrum and milk did not present statistical differences (p > 0.05). However, the placental membrane development was reduced in the ewes that received supplementation with biocholine; interestingly, those dams increased the weight of the newborns during the lambing period (p < 0.05). Finally, the current study proposes necessary elucidation of how placental size is programmed and if less placental development has potential benefits in the fetus's development.

Alostasis y carga alostática de las enfermedades / Allostasis and allostatic load of diseases

Introducción: La homeostasis es la propiedad fundamental de los sistemas biológicos de preservar el medio interno. La presión arterial, el pH, las concentraciones plasmáticas de sodio y glucosa son ejemplos de variables homeostáticos, donde el propósito de la regulación fisiológica es fijar cada parámetro interno en un punto de ajuste, detecta errores y los corrige con realimentación negativa. Los fisiólogos han evidenciado que muchos errores no son constantes sino adaptativos. Objetivo: Exponer los conceptos novedosos acerca de la influencia de un ambiente de estrés sobre nuestra fisiología y sus efectos deletéreos a largo plazo. Métodos: Se realizó una revisión bibliográfica, en el motor de búsqueda Google académico, los descriptores: homeostasis, alostasis y carga alostática. Conclusiones: Se expuso los conceptos novedosos acerca de la influencia de un ambiente de estrés sobre nuestra fisiología y sus efectos deletéreos a largo plazo. La alostasis es el precio que el cuerpo paga por verse obligado a adaptarse a situaciones psicosociales o físicas adversas. La obesidad, la diabetes, la insulinoresistencia, la hipertensión arterial, son variables alostáticas, no homeostáticas, no son parámetros constantes, sino adaptativos, el organismo cambiará su medio interno para enfrentar el desafío o perturbación que le llega desde el exterior. Pensar en muchas de estas patologías bajo un modelo alostático puede enriquecer los recursos conceptuales del médico y modificar el abordaje de enfermedades prevalentes(AU)

Introduction: Homeostasis is the fundamental property of biological systems to preserve the internal environment. Blood pressure, pH, plasma sodium and glucose concentrations are examples of homeostatic variables, where the purpose of physiological regulation is to fix each internal parameter at a set point, detect errors and correct them with negative feedback. Physiologists have shown that many errors are not constant but adaptive. Objective: To expose novel concepts about the influence of a stressful environment on our physiology and its deleterious long-term effects. Methods: A literature review was performed, in the academic Google search engine, the descriptors: homeostasis, allostasis and allostatic load. Conclusions: Novel concepts about the influence of a stressful environment on our physiology and its deleterious long-term effects were exposed. Allostasis is the price the body pays for being forced to adapt to adverse psychosocial or physical situations. Obesity, diabetes, insulin resistance, arterial hypertension, are allostatic variables, not homeostatic, they are not constant parameters, but adaptive, the organism will change its internal environment to face the challenge or perturbation that comes from the outside. Thinking about many of these pathologies under an allostatic model can enrich the conceptual resources of the physician and modify the approach to prevalent diseases(AU)

Analysis of the genomic diversity of human papillomavirus type 31 in cervical samples reveals the presence of novel sublineages in clade C.

Human papillomavirus 31 (HPV31) is the fourth most frequent high-risk HPV (HR-HPV) genotype identified in cervical cancer (CC) worldwide and in Mexico. It has been recently classified into three lineages (A, B, and C) and eight sublineages (A1, A2, B1, B2, and C1 - C4). Here, we report the complete genomic sequences of 14 HPV31 isolates from cervical samples, and these were compared with viral genome sequences from the GenBank database for phylogenetic and genetic distance analysis. The formation of two novel clades within the C lineage (proposed as C5 and C6) was observed, with a well-defined variant-specific mutational pattern. The smallest average pairwise distance was 0.71% for lineages A and B, 0.94% for lineages A and C, and 1.01% for lineages B and C, and between sublineages, these values were 0.21% for clade A, 0.29% for clade B, and 0.24% for clade C. The isolates were grouped into the sublineages A1, B2, C1-C3, and C6. This is the first report on the whole-genome diversity of HPV31 in Mexico.

Herbal Vitamin C Prevents DNA Oxidation and Modifies the Metabolomic Water Profile of Tilapia (Oreochromis spp.).

This experiment aimed to evaluate the effects of herbal vitamin C at different levels on tilapia (Oreochromis spp.) growth, potential DNA damage, and the metabolomic profile of water effluent. Forty-five tilapias were housed in separate plastic tanks (80 L), and these were randomly assigned to three treatments: (a) a commercial diet (CD) only; (Nutripec Purina®); (b) the commercial diet plus 250 mg of herbal vitamin C (HVC)/kg (CD250); and (c) the commercial diet plus 500 mg of HVC/kg (CD500). Biometric measurements were taken each week, blood samples were collected from the caudal vein on the final day, and water effluent was taken each week and immediately frozen (-80 °C) until further analysis (gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) systems). Data were completely randomized with a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement of treatments. Upon including herbal vitamin C, the final BW (p = 0.05) and BWG (p = 0.06) increased linearly. Herbal vitamin C decreases DNA damage (p ≥ 0.05). PLS-DA showed a 41.6% variation between treatments in the water samples. Fifteen metabolites had the best association between treatments, with a stronger correlation with CD500. Herbal vitamin C could improve fish performance, prevent DNA damage, and influence changes in the metabolomic profile of the water.

Performance Analysis and Architecture of a Clustering Hybrid Algorithm Called FA+GA-DBSCAN Using Artificial Datasets.

Density-Based Spatial Clustering of Applications with Noise (DBSCAN) is a widely used algorithm for exploratory clustering applications. Despite the DBSCAN algorithm being considered an unsupervised pattern recognition method, it has two parameters that must be tuned prior to the clustering process in order to reduce uncertainties, the minimum number of points in a clustering segmentation MinPts, and the radii around selected points from a specific dataset Eps. This article presents the performance of a clustering hybrid algorithm for automatically grouping datasets into a two-dimensional space using the well-known algorithm DBSCAN. Here, the function nearest neighbor and a genetic algorithm were used for the automation of parameters MinPts and Eps. Furthermore, the Factor Analysis (FA) method was defined for pre-processing through a dimensionality reduction of high-dimensional datasets with dimensions greater than two. Finally, the performance of the clustering algorithm called FA+GA-DBSCAN was evaluated using artificial datasets. In addition, the precision and Entropy of the clustering hybrid algorithm were measured, which showed there was less probability of error in clustering the most condensed datasets.

Correction: Whole genome variation in 27 Mexican indigenous populations, demographic and biomedical insights.

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0249773.].

[Comprehensive care in type 2 diabetes: from DiabeIMSS to CADIMSS]. / Atención integral en diabetes tipo 2: transición del modelo DiabetIMSS a CADIMSS.

In diabetes, obtaining optimal control is key to reducing chronic complications. Unfortunately, not all patients achieve the recommended goals. Therefore, the challenges to develop and evaluate comprehensive care models are enormous. In October 2008, the Diabetic Patient Care Program (DiabetIMSS) was designed and implemented in family medicine. Its principal component is the multidisciplinary team (doctor, nurse, psychologist, dietitian, dentist, and social worker) that offers coordinated health care; monthly medical consultation and individual, family and group education on self-care and prevention of complications for 12 months. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the percentage of attendance at the DiabetIMSS modules decreased significantly. This is how the Medical Director considered it necessary to strengthen them, and the Diabetes Care Centers (CADIMSS) arose. In addition to providing medical care with a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach, the CADIMSS encourages the co-responsibility of the patient and his family. It consists of monthly medical consultation and nursing staff provides monthly educational sessions for 6 months. Pending tasks remain and there are still areas of opportunity to modernize and reorganize services that contribute to improving the health of the population with diabetes.

En un paciente con diabetes, la obtención de un control óptimo es clave para reducir las complicaciones crónicas. Desafortunadamente, no todos los pacientes logran las metas recomendadas. Por ello, son substanciales los desafíos para desarrollar y evaluar modelos de atención integral. En octubre del 2008, se diseñó e implementó el Programa de Atención al Paciente Diabético (DiabetIMSS) en medicina familiar. Su componente básico es el equipo multidisciplinario (médico, enfermera, psicólogo, dietista, dentista y trabajador social) que ofrece asistencia sanitaria coordinada, consulta médica mensual y educación individual, familiar y grupal sobre autocuidado y prevención de complicaciones durante 12 meses. Debido a la pandemia de COVID-19, el porcentaje de asistencia a los módulos DiabetIMSS disminuyó importantemente. Es así como la Dirección de Prestaciones Médicas consideró necesario su fortalecimiento, por lo que surgen los Centros de Atención a la Diabetes (CADIMSS). Además de proporcionar atención médico-asistencial con enfoque integral y multidisciplinario, en los CADIMSS se fomenta la corresponsabilidad del paciente y su familia, y se otorga consulta médica mensual y sesiones educativas a cargo de personal de enfermería durante 6 meses. Sin embargo, siguen tareas pendientes, y aún hay áreas de oportunidad para modernizar y reorganizar los servicios que contribuyan a mejorar la salud de la población con diabetes.

Prevalencia bayesiana de Staphylococcus aureus en vacas lecheras en el Valle del Cauca, Colombia / Bayesian prevalence of Staphylococcus aureus in Valle del Cauca, Colombia dairy cows / Prevalência bayesiana de Staphylococcus aureus em vacas leiteiras no Vale do Cauca, Colômbia

Resumen El Staphylococcus aureus es uno de los principales microorganismos causantes de mastitis subclínica en las vacas lecheras. Determinar la prevalencia del S. aureus se hace necesario en vacas de hatos lecheros grandes y pequeños ubicados en la región norte, centro y sur del departamento del Valle del Cauca, Colombia. Se utilizó la metodología del National Mastitis Council recolectando 1070 muestras de leche de 273 vacas en 17 hatos mediante un muestreo polietápico, durante el periódo 2015 - 2016. Se realizó cultivo con todas las muestras recolectadas independientemente del resultado de la prueba de California mastitis test. Se utilizó el análisis bayesiano de los datos para obtener estimaciones más precisas. La prevalencia bayesiana del patógeno S. aureus en vacas lecheras en el Valle del Cauca fue de 31,94% y se tiene un 95% de probabilidad de que el intervalo (30,03 - 37,62%) contenga el valor de dicha prevalencia. La región Norte, Centro y Sur evidenciaron prevalencias de 33%, 34% y 24% respectivamente. En cuanto al tamaño del hato se evidenció que las vacas de los hatos pequeños presentan mayor prevalencia con 47% que las vacas de los hatos grandes 17% a la presencia del patógeno. La alta prevalencia encontrada en las vacas genera un alto impacto en la salud pública debido a una posible contaminación zoonótica por este patógeno.

Abstract Staphylococcus aureus is one of the main microorganisms responsible of subclinical mastitis in dairy cows. To determine the bayesian prevalence of S. aureus of cows in large and small dairy farms located in the northern, central and southern region of the Valle del Cauca province in Colombia. We Followed the National Mastitis Council methodology, 1070 milk samples from 273 cows in 17 dairy farms by means of a multi-stage sampling, were collected during the period 2015-2016. Cultivation was carried out with all the samples. Bayesian inference was used. The prevalence of the pathogen S. aureus in dairy cows in Valle del Cauca is 31,94% and there is a 95% probability that the interval (30,03 - 37,62%). The North, Central and South regions showed prevalence values of 33%, 34% and 24% respectively. Small dairy farms have prevalence, 47%, large dairy farms 17%. The high prevalence found in the cows studied generates a high impact on public health due to possible zoonotic contamination by this pathogen.

Resumo O Staphylococcus aureus é um dos principais microrganismos causadores de mastite subclínica em vacas leiteiras. Determinar a prevalência de S. aureus em vacas de leite em pequenas e grandes rebanhos leiteiros localizados região no norte, centro e sul do estado do Valle del Cauca, Colômbia. A metodologia do Conselho Nacional de Mastite 1070 foi utilizado para coletar amostras de leite de 273 vacas em 17 rebanhos através de amostragem de vários estágios durante o período 2015 - 2016. O cultivo foi realizado com todas as amostras coletadas, independentemente do resultado do teste de mastite Califórnia. O análise Bayesiana dos dados foi utilizada para obter estimativas mais precisas. Bayesian prevalência de agentes patogénicos S. aureus em vacas leiteiras no Valle foi 31,94% e tem uma probabilidade de 95% com um intervalo 30,03% - 37,62%. As regiões Norte, Central e Sul apresentaram prevalências de 33%, 34% e 24%, respectivamente. Em relação ao tamanho do rebanho, ficou evidente que as vacas dos pequenos rebanhos apresentam maior prevalência do patogeno com 47% comparado com 17% nas vacas dos grandes rebanhos. A alta prevalência encontrada nas vacas estudadas gera alto impacto na saúde pública, agravado pelo fato de metade do leite consumido na Colômbia ser cru.

Whole genome variation in 27 Mexican indigenous populations, demographic and biomedical insights.

There has been limited study of Native American whole genome diversity to date, which impairs effective implementation of personalized medicine and a detailed description of its demographic history. Here we report high coverage whole genome sequencing of 76 unrelated individuals, from 27 indigenous groups across Mexico, with more than 97% average Native American ancestry. On average, each individual has 3.26 million Single Nucleotide Variants and short indels, that together comprise a catalog of 9,737,152 variants, 44,118 of which are novel. We report 497 common Single Nucleotide Variants (with allele frequency > 5%) mapped to drug responses and 316,577 in enhancer or promoter elements; interestingly we found some of these enhancer variants in PPARG, a nuclear receptor involved in highly prevalent health problems in Mexican population, such as obesity, diabetes, and insulin resistance. By detecting signals of positive selection we report 24 enriched key pathways under selection, most of them related to immune mechanisms. No missense variants in ACE2, the receptor responsible for the entry of the SARS CoV-2 virus, were found in any individual. Population genomics and phylogenetic analyses demonstrated stratification in a Northern-Central-Southern axis, with major substructure in the Central region. The Seri, a northern group with the most genetic divergence in our study, showed a distinctive genomic context with the most novel variants, and the most population specific genotypes. Genome-wide analysis showed that the average haplotype blocks are longer in Native Mexicans than in other world populations. With this dataset we describe previously undetected population level variation in Native Mexicans, helping to reduce the gap in genomic data representation of such groups.

Genetic Factors Associated with COPD Depend on the Ancestral Caucasian/Amerindian Component in the Mexican Population.

Genetic variability influences the susceptibility to and severity of complex diseases; there is a lower risk of COPD in Hispanics than in non-Hispanic Caucasians. In this study, we included 830 Mexican-Mestizo subjects; 299 were patients with COPD secondary to tobacco smoking, and 531 were smokers without COPD. We employed a customized genotyping array of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). The population structure was evaluated by principal component analysis and allele association through a logistic regression model and haplotype identification. In this study, 118 individuals were identified with a high Caucasian component and 712 with a high Amerindian component. Independent of the ancestral contribution, two SNPs were associated with a reduced risk (p ≤ 0.01) of developing COPD in the CYP2A6 (rs4105144) and CYP2B6 (rs10426235) genes; however, a haplotype was associated with an increased risk of COPD (p = 0.007, OR = 2.47) in the CHRNA5-CHRNA3 loci among smokers with a high Caucasian component. In Mexican-Mestizo smokers, there are SNPs in genes that encode proteins responsible for the metabolism of nicotine associated with a lower risk of COPD; individuals with a high Caucasian component harboring a haplotype in the CHRNA5-CHRNA3 loci have a higher risk of suffering from COPD.

Comparison of the electromyographic activity of different zones of the abductor digiti minimi manus muscle in search of a functional compartmentalisation / Comparación de la actividad electromiográfica de diferentes zonas del músculo abductor digiti minimi manus en busca de una compartimentación funcional

SUMMARY: There is evidence demonstrating the presence of functional compartmentalisation (FC) in some skeletal muscles. This means that the motor units (MU), grouped in certain areas of the muscle, show different levels of activation in comparison to those located in other zones. This has only been described in large muscles whose morphology proves the existence of a FC. However, there is no background information about small muscles, such as the Abductor digiti minimi manus (ADM). The objective of this study was to compare the activation of the MU in different zones of the ADM to support the hypothesis of the existence of a FC in the ADM. By using a cross- sectional, analytical, observational study, the activity of the MUs in the ADM was assessed in 12 volunteers (age 21 ± 1.6 years old; weight 75.3 ± 8 kg; height 176.2 ± 7.3 cm; average ± standard deviation). The activity of MUs was evaluated using high-density surface electromyography (HD-sEMG) with an array of 64 electrodes arranged two-dimensionally. This allowed us to record the activity of the MUs in three zones of the ADM (Z1: dorsal zone; Z2: dorsal-palmar zone and Z3: palmar zone). Electromyographic recordings were obtained during voluntary isometric contractions of the ADM at 20, 40, 60 and 80 % of the maximum voluntary contraction (MVC). The comparison of the activation levels of MUs between the three zones was carried out using a mixed model analysis of covariance. The results showed a significant difference between the dorsal and palmar zones at 40 % of the MVC (p= 0.03), and between the dorsal and dorsal- palmar zone at 80 % of the MVC (p= 0.03). The results obtained in the evaluated sample support the hypothesis of the existence of FC in the ADM. However, further research is needed to determine with greater certainty the presence of this compartmentalisation in the ADM.

RESUMEN: Existe evidencia que demuestra la presencia de una compartimentalización funcional (CF) en algunos músculos esqueléticos. Aquello se traduce en que las unidades motoras (UM) agrupadas en ciertas zonas del músculo, presentan diferentes niveles de activación a las ubicadas en otras regiones. Esto solo ha sido descrito en músculos grandes, cuya morfología justifica la existencia de una CF. Sin embargo, no existen antecedentes de aquello en músculos pequeños, tales como el abductor digiti minimi manus (ADM). El objetivo de este estudio fue comparar la activación de las UM en distintas zonas del ADM, con la finalidad sostener la hipótesis de la existencia de una CF en el ADM. Mediante un estudio observacional analítico transversal se evaluó la actividad de las UM del ADM en 12 voluntarios (edad 21±1,6 años; peso 75,3±8 kg; altura 176,2 ± 7,3 cm; promedio ± desviación estándar). La actividad de las UM, se evaluó mediante electromiografía de superficie alta densidad usando una matriz de 64 electrodos dispuestos bidimensionalmente. Esta permitió registrar la actividad de las UM en tres zonas del ADM (Z1: zona dorsal; Z2: zona dorso-palmar y Z3: zona palmar). Los registros electromiográficos fueron obtenidos durante contracciones isométricas voluntarias del ADM al 20, 40, 60 y 80 % de la contracción voluntaria máxima (CVM). La comparación de los niveles de activación de las UM entre las tres zonas fue realizada mediante un análisis de modelos mixtos de covarianza. Los resultados indicaron que existió diferencia significativa entre la zona dorsal y palmar al 40 % de la CVM (p=0,03), y entre la zona dorsal y dorso-palmar al 80 % de la CVM (p=0,03). Los resultados obtenidos en la muestra evaluada sostienen la hipótesis de la existencia de una CF en el ADM. Sin embargo, son necesarias más investigaciones para establecer con mayor certeza la presencia de esta compartimentalización en el ADM.

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) caused by the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19): a practical comprehensive literature review.

INTRODUCTION: The exponential growth of SARS-CoV-2 virus transmission during the first months of 2020 has placed substantial pressure on most health systems around the world. The complications derived from the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) vary due to comorbidities, sex and age, with more than 50% of the patients requiring some level of intensive care developing acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). The authors carried out an extensive and comprehensive literature review on SARS-CoV-2 infection, the clinical, pathological, and radiological presentation as well as the current treatment strategies. AREAS COVERED: Various complications caused by SARS-CoV-2 infection have been identified, the most lethal being the acute respiratory distress syndrome, caused most likely by the presence of severe immune cell response and the concomitant alveolus inflammation. The new treatment strategies are updated, and the analysis of the physiopathology is included in this review. EXPERT OPINION: ARDS is one of the most frequent complications in patients with COVID-19. Information regarding the etiology and physiopathology are still unfolding and for the prevention and amelioration, good clinical management, adequate ventilatory support and the use of systemic corticoids seem to be the most efficient way to reduce mortality and to reduce hospital lengths.

Argumentos para reconocer a los deportistas como trabajadores públicos civiles: más allá de la carrera dual / Arguments for recognizing athletes as civil public workers: beyond dual career / Argumentos para reconhecer atletas como trabalhadores públicos civis: Além da dupla carreira

RESUMEN El deporte es una actividad que se práctica de forma recreativa o profesional. Quienes lo hacen profesionalmente en ocasiones reciben aportes económicos y logran estudiar una carrera profesional, lo que se conoce como carrera dual. No obstante, hay quienes presentan esta actividad como su trabajo. El objetivo general del estudio fue analizar los argumentos de los deportistas chilenos para referirse a la práctica deportiva como una actividad laboral; el objetivo específico fue reflexionar críticamente sobre el desarrollo de la carrera dual en Chile. Para comprender estos argumentos, se realizó un estudio cualitativo por medio de entrevistas activas semiestructuradas a deportistas de alto rendimiento (DAR) y recreativos, olímpicos y paralímpicos. Los resultados muestran que los atletas demandan reconocimiento como trabajadores públicos por medio de tres argumentos: económico, subordinación y dependencia e identidad. Las conclusiones y discusiones sugieren debatir el reconocimiento de ellos y ellas como trabajadores públicos.

ABSTRACT Sport is an activity practiced recreationally or professionally. Those who do it professionally occasions receive financial contributions and manage to study a professional career, which is known as a dual career. However, there are those who present this activity as their work. The objective of the study was to analyze the arguments of Chilean athletes to refer to sports as a work activity. The specific objective was to critically reflect on the development of the dual career in Chile To understand these arguments, a qualitative study was conducted through semi-structured active interviews with high performance athletes and recreational, Olympic and Paralympic athletes. The results show that athletes demand recognition as public workers through three arguments: economic, subordination and dependency, and identity. The conclusions and discussions suggest to debate their recognition as public workers.

RESUMO O esporte é uma atividade praticada recreativa ou profissionalmente. Quem pratica profissionalmente às vezes recebe contribuições financeiras e consegue estudar uma carreira profissional, conhecida como carreira dupla. No entanto, há quem apresente essa atividade como trabalho. O objetivo do estudo foi analisar os argumentos de atletas chilenos para se referir ao esporte como atividade de trabalho. O objetivo específico foi refletir criticamente sobre o desenvolvimento da carreira dupla no Chile Para entender esses argumentos, foi realizado um estudo qualitativo, por meio de entrevistas ativas semiestruturadas com atletas de alto desempenho (DAR) e atletas recreativos, olímpicos e paralímpicos. Os resultados mostram que os atletas exigem reconhecimento como funcionários públicos por meio de três argumentos: econômico, subordinação e dependência e identidade. As conclusões e discussões sugerem debater seu reconhecimento como funcionários públicos.

Argumentos para reconocer a los deportistas como trabajadores públicos civiles: más allá de la carrera dual / Arguments for recognizing athletes as civil public workers: beyond dual career / Argumentos para reconhecer atletas como trabalhadores públicos civis: Além da dupla carreira

RESUMEN El deporte es una actividad que se práctica de forma recreativa o profesional. Quienes lo hacen profesionalmente en ocasiones reciben aportes económicos y logran estudiar una carrera profesional, lo que se conoce como carrera dual. No obstante, hay quienes presentan esta actividad como su trabajo. El objetivo general del estudio fue analizar los argumentos de los deportistas chilenos para referirse a la práctica deportiva como una actividad laboral; el objetivo específico fue reflexionar críticamente sobre el desarrollo de la carrera dual en Chile. Para comprender estos argumentos, se realizó un estudio cualitativo por medio de entrevistas activas semiestructuradas a deportistas de alto rendimiento (DAR) y recreativos, olímpicos y paralímpicos. Los resultados muestran que los atletas demandan reconocimiento como trabajadores públicos por medio de tres argumentos: económico, subordinación y dependencia e identidad. Las conclusiones y discusiones sugieren debatir el reconocimiento de ellos y ellas como trabajadores públicos.

ABSTRACT Sport is an activity practiced recreationally or professionally. Those who do it professionally occasions receive financial contributions and manage to study a professional career, which is known as a dual career. However, there are those who present this activity as their work. The objective of the study was to analyze the arguments of Chilean athletes to refer to sports as a work activity. The specific objective was to critically reflect on the development of the dual career in Chile To understand these arguments, a qualitative study was conducted through semi-structured active interviews with high performance athletes and recreational, Olympic and Paralympic athletes. The results show that athletes demand recognition as public workers through three arguments: economic, subordination and dependency, and identity. The conclusions and discussions suggest to debate their recognition as public workers.

RESUMO O esporte é uma atividade praticada recreativa ou profissionalmente. Quem pratica profissionalmente às vezes recebe contribuições financeiras e consegue estudar uma carreira profissional, conhecida como carreira dupla. No entanto, há quem apresente essa atividade como trabalho. O objetivo do estudo foi analisar os argumentos de atletas chilenos para se referir ao esporte como atividade de trabalho. O objetivo específico foi refletir criticamente sobre o desenvolvimento da carreira dupla no Chile Para entender esses argumentos, foi realizado um estudo qualitativo, por meio de entrevistas ativas semiestruturadas com atletas de alto desempenho (DAR) e atletas recreativos, olímpicos e paralímpicos. Os resultados mostram que os atletas exigem reconhecimento como funcionários públicos por meio de três argumentos: econômico, subordinação e dependência e identidade. As conclusões e discussões sugerem debater seu reconhecimento como funcionários públicos.

Genotype-Environment Interaction Analysis of NQO1, CYP2E1, and NAT2 Polymorphisms and the Risk of Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: A Report From the Mexican Interinstitutional Group for the Identification of the Causes of Childhood Leukemia.

Background: Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is the main type of cancer in children. In Mexico and other Hispanic populations, the incidence of this neoplasm is one of the highest reported worldwide. Functional polymorphisms of various enzymes involved in the metabolism of xenobiotics have been associated with an increased risk of developing ALL, and the risk is different by ethnicity. The aims of the present study were to identify whether NQO1, CYP2E1, and NAT2 polymorphisms or some genotype-environmental interactions were associated with ALL risk in Mexican children. Methods: We conducted a case-control study including 478 pediatric patients diagnosed with ALL and 284 controls (children without leukemia). Ancestry composition of a subset of cases and controls was assessed using 32 ancestry informative markers. Genetic-environmental interactions for the exposure to hydrocarbons were assessed by logistic regression analysis. Results: The polymorphisms rs1801280 (OR 1.54, 95% CI 1.21-1.93), rs1799929 (OR 1.96, 95% CI 1.55-2.49), and rs1208 (OR 1.44, 95% CI 1.14-1.81) were found to increase the risk of ALL; being the risks higher under a recessive model (OR 2.20, 95% CI 1.30-1.71, OR 3.87, 95% CI 2.20-6.80, and OR 2.26, 95% CI 1.32-3.87, respectively). Gene-environment interaction analysis showed that NAT2 rs1799929 TT genotype confers high risk to ALL under exposure to fertilizers, insecticides, hydrocarbon derivatives, and parental tobacco smoking. No associations among NQO1, CYP2E1, and ALL were observed. Conclusion: Our study provides evidence for the association between NAT2 polymorphisms/gene-environment interactions, and the risk of childhood ALL in Mexican children.