Building national patient registries in Mexico: insights from the MexOMICS Consortium.

Objective: To introduce MexOMICS, a Mexican Consortium focused on establishing electronic databases to collect, cross-reference, and share health-related and omics data on the Mexican population. Methods: Since 2019, the MexOMICS Consortium has established three electronic-based registries: the Mexican Twin Registry (TwinsMX), Mexican Lupus Registry (LupusRGMX), and the Mexican Parkinson's Research Network (MEX-PD), designed and implemented using the Research Electronic Data Capture web-based application. Participants were enrolled through voluntary participation and on-site engagement with medical specialists. We also acquired DNA samples and Magnetic Resonance Imaging scans in subsets of participants. Results: The registries have successfully enrolled a large number of participants from a variety of regions within Mexico: TwinsMX (n = 2,915), LupusRGMX (n = 1,761) and MEX-PD (n = 750). In addition to sociodemographic, psychosocial, and clinical data, MexOMICS has collected DNA samples to study the genetic biomarkers across the three registries. Cognitive function has been assessed with the Montreal Cognitive Assessment in a subset of 376 MEX-PD participants. Furthermore, a subset of 267 twins have participated in cognitive evaluations with the Creyos platform and in MRI sessions acquiring structural, functional, and spectroscopy brain imaging; comparable evaluations are planned for LupusRGMX and MEX-PD. Conclusions: The MexOMICS registries offer a valuable repository of information concerning the potential interplay of genetic and environmental factors in health conditions among the Mexican population.

3D wildlife skull models for wildlife veterinary training.

Wildlife veterinarians are necessary for zoonotic diseases and species loss management, and there is a rising interest to enroll at veterinary schools with the wish to work in zoo and wildlife medicine. However, teaching wildlife is challenging due to the difficulty faced by universities to work with wild animal specimens. The aim of the present was to evaluate the understanding efficiency of some anatomical and behavioral aspects using 3D printed models of four wildlife species skulls, the kinkaju (Potos flavus), the white-nosed coati (Nasua narica), the northern anteater (Tamandua mexicana), and the nine-banded armadillo (Dasypus novemcinctus). This study was performed on 85 third-year veterinary students, divided into an experimental and a control group, who used and not used 3D printed skulls, respectively. Results show that the experimental group shows higher scores, in three of the four variables evaluated, than the control group. Then, 3D wildlife printed skulls constitute a promising teaching tool for veterinary students. In fact, it may be as good as real skulls, since new 3D printers can print on high endurance and firmness stock with high accuracy at reduced costs. In this context, it is important to encourage its use for the training of new generations and keep professionals up to date.

Face mask and protective eyewear-associated headache among healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to investigate the prevalence, clinical features, and factors related to personal protective-associated headaches. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional study among healthcare workers using an online questionnaire. RESULTS: We surveyed 305 participants. The N95 face-mask was the most used device by 93%. Of 305 respondents, 206 experienced headaches while wearing protective equipment; 36.06% suffered from a headache disorder before the pandemic. The prevalence of de novo headache was 39.01%. Gender, age, or exposure to coronavirus disease were not determining factors to develop headache. Headache intensity was higher in front-line healthcare workers and was correlated (r = 0.728) with the time wearing protective equipment. The more days per month the participants wore personal protective equipment the shorter the time to headache onset after donning equipment. CONCLUSION: Our study confirms the relationship between frequent and prolonged use of protection devices with headaches and reaffirms the implication of external pressure as a primary mechanism.

OBJETIVO: Investigar la prevalencia, las características clínicas y los factores relacionados con las cefaleas asociadas al equipo de protección personal. MÉTODOS: Realizamos un estudio transversal entre trabajadores de la salud por medio de un cuestionario en línea. RESULTADOS: Encuestamos a 305 participantes. La mascarilla N95 fue el dispositivo más utilizado opor 93%. Del total de encuestados, 206 experimentaron cefalea mientras usaban el equipo de protección; el 36.06% padecía algun trastorno cefalálgico antes del inicio de la pandemia. La prevalencia de cefalea de novo fue del 39.01%. El género, la edad o la exposición a la enfermedad por coronavirus no fueron factores determinantes para desarrollar cefalea. La cefalea fue de mayor intensidad en los trabajadores de primera línea y se correlacionó (r = 0.728) con el tiempo que se uso el equipo de protección personal. Mientras más días por mes los participantes usaron el equipo de protección personal menor fue el tiempo de inicio de la cefalea tras la colocación del equipo cada vez. CONCLUSIONES: Nuestro estudio confirma la asociación del uso frecuente y prolongado de dispositivos de protección con el desarrollo de cefalea y reafirma la implicación de la compresión externa como mecanismo primario.

Comparative Biomonitoring of Arsenic Exposure in Mothers and Their Neonates in Comarca Lagunera, Mexico.

Multiple comorbidities related to arsenic exposure through drinking water continue to be public problems worldwide, principally in chronically exposed populations, such as those in the Comarca Lagunera (CL), Mexico. In addition, this relationship could be exacerbated by an early life exposure through the placenta and later through breast milk. This study conducted a comparative analysis of arsenic levels in multiple biological samples from pregnant women and their neonates in the CL and the comparison region, Saltillo. Total arsenic levels in placenta, breast milk, blood, and urine were measured in pregnant women and their neonates from rural areas of seven municipalities of the CL using atomic absorption spectrophotometry with hydride generation methodology. The average concentrations of tAs in drinking water were 47.7 µg/L and 0.05 µg/L in the exposed and non-exposed areas, respectively. Mean levels of tAs were 7.80 µg/kg, 77.04 µg/g-Cr, and 4.30 µg/L in placenta, blood, urine, and breast milk, respectively, in mothers, and 107.92 µg/g-Cr in neonates in the exposed group, which were significantly higher than those in the non-exposed area. High levels of urinary arsenic in neonates were maintained 4 days after birth, demonstrating an early arsenic exposure route through the placenta and breast milk. In addition, our study suggested that breastfeeding may reduce arsenic exposure in infants in arsenic-contaminated areas. Further studies are necessary to follow up on comorbidities later in life in neonates and to provide interventions in this region.

Insight into the Burden of Malignant Respiratory Tumors and their Relationship with Smoking Rates and Lead Contamination in Mexico.

We aimed to report the results from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019 related to respiratory malignant tumors (tracheal, bronchial, and lung) in Mexico. We also evaluated the relationship between the burden of these neoplasms and the proportion of daily smokers and total lead emissions in 2019. A cross-sectional analysis of ecological data was performed. The burden of these tumors was 152,189 disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs), and years of life lost (YLL) contributed to 99% of them. The highest DALYs rates (per 100,000) were observed in the states of Sinaloa, Chihuahua, Baja California Sur, Sonora, and Nayarit. We documented a linear relationship between the DALYs rates and the prevalence of daily smokers (ß = 8.50, 95% CI 1.58-15.38) and the total lead emissions (tons/year: ß = 4.04, 95% CI 0.07-8.01). If later replicated, our study would provide insight into the major relevance of regulating tobacco use and the activities associated with the production of lead dust and other hazardous contaminants.

[Phase angle assessment by electrical vector bioimpedance in women with cervical cancer]. / Evaluación del ángulo de fase por bioimpedancia vectorial eléctrica en mujeres con cáncer cervicouterino.

INTRODUCTION: Introduction: cervical cancer is the second most common cancer in women in the world. It is associated with a high body mass index. However, the phase angle has not been determined in women with cervical cancer. Electrical vector bioimpedance has been validated to assess body composition, nutritional status, and cell membrane integrity in cancer patients using phase angle. Objetive: to evaluate phase angle, body composition by electrical vector bioimpedance, and dietary intake in women with cervical diagnosis who are users of a second-level care hospital in San Luis Potosí, Mexico. Methods: an observational, cross-sectional, and analytical study. Seventy women with a diagnosis of cervical cancer were studied in the oncology service. Phase angle was measured, and the frequency of food from the Nutritional Habits Assessment System and a questionnaire to measure socioeconomic level were applied. Results: the data of the phase angle in a mean of 4.66 ° ± 0.87 ° with a range of 2.9 ° to 6.2 ° In a multiple linear regression model formed for phase angle as a dependent variable, and evolution of the cervical cancer, body mass index, skeletal muscle mass, extracellular water, fructose, saturated fatty acids, and trans fatty acids as independent variables, had an R2 value of 0.748 with a p-value of 0.001. Conclusion: women with cervical cancer have integrity damage of the cell membrane with a lower phase angle than the reference population.

INTRODUCCIÓN: Introducción: el cáncer cervicouterino es el segundo cáncer más común en las mujeres en el mundo. Se asocia a un índice de masa corporal elevado. Sin embargo, no se ha determinado el ángulo de fase en las mujeres con cáncer cervicouterino. La bioimpedancia vectorial eléctrica está validada para evaluar la composición corporal, el estado nutricional y la integridad de la membrana celular en pacientes con cáncer mediante el ángulo de fase. Objetivo: evaluar el ángulo de fase, la composición corporal por bioimpedancia vectorial eléctrica y el consumo dietético en mujeres con diagnóstico de cáncer cervicouterino usuarias de un hospital de segundo nivel de atención en San Luis Potosí, México. Métodos: estudio observacional, transversal y analítico. Se estudiaron 70 mujeres con diagnóstico de cáncer cervicouterino en el servicio de oncología. Se realizó la medición del ángulo de fase y se aplicó la frecuencia de alimentos del Sistema de Evaluación de Hábitos Nutricionales, así como un cuestionario para medir el nivel socioeconómico. Resultados: el ángulo de fase presentó una media de 4,66 ° ± 0,87 ° con un rango de 2,9 ° a 6,2 °. El modelo de regresión lineal múltiple formado para el ángulo de fase como variable dependiente y la evolución del cáncer cervicouterino, el índice de masa corporal, la masa de músculo esquelético, el agua extracelular, la fructosa, los ácidos grasos saturados y los ácidos grasos trans como variables independientes, tuvo un valor de R2 de 0,748 con un valor de p de 0,001. Conclusión: las mujeres con cáncer cervicouterino mostraron daños en la integridad de la membrana celular, con un ángulo de fase menor que el de la población de referencia.

Cranial bone regeneration with collagen type I and polyvinylpyrrolidone (Fibroquel®) combined with hyaluronic acid in Wistar rats: morphological study / Regeneración ósea craneal con colágeno tipo I y polivinilpirrolidona (Fibroquel®) combinado con ácido hialurónico en ratas Wistar: estudio morfológico

SUMMARY: The purpose of this study was to evaluate by morphological methods, if a mixture of Fibroquel® and hyaluronic acid implanted in an animal model of cranial bone injury could promote bone regeneration. 12 Wistar rats were divided in three groups, control group, bone injury without treatment and bone injury with treatment. After experimental period, bone samples were taken and stained with H & E, Masson trichrome, PAS-D, immunohistochemistry with anti-PCNA monoclonal antibody and applied a semiquantitative morphometric method. Treatment group showed extensive areas of collagen fibers in contact with normal bone tissue, areas of normal histology, PAS positive material and less cellular proliferation. We demonstrated for the first time that a mixture of Fibroquel® and hyaluronic acid implanted in an animal model of cranial bone injury promotes bone regeneration.

RESUMEN: El propósito de este estudio fue evaluar por métodos morfológicos, si una mezcla de Fibroquel® y ácido hialurónico implantado en un modelo animal de lesión del hueso craneal podría promover la regeneración ósea. Se dividieron 12 ratas Wistar en tres grupos, grupo control, lesión ósea sin tratamiento y lesión ósea con tratamiento. Después del período experimental, se tomaron muestras de hueso y se tiñeron con H & E, tricrómico de Masson, PAS-D, inmunohistoquímica con anticuerpo monoclonal anti-PCNA y se aplicó un método morfométrico semicuantitativo. El grupo de tratamiento mostró áreas extensas de fibras de colágeno en contacto con tejido óseo normal, áreas de histología normal, material PAS positivo y menor proliferación celular. Demostramos por primera vez que una mezcla de Fibroquel® y ácido hialurónico implantado en un modelo animal de lesión del hueso craneal promueve la regeneración ósea.

RADIOGRAPHIC ANATOMY OF THE FORELIMB IN THE NORTHERN TAMANDUA (TAMANDUA MEXICANA).

The thoracic limb anatomy of anteaters in the family Myrmecophagidae is specialized for accessing termite and ant nests and for defense purposes. In the case of the northern tamandua (Tamandua mexicana), the forelimbs are also adapted for arboreal and terrestrial locomotion. Unfortunately, this species faces many conservation threats, such as habitat loss and traffic accidents, and injured individuals are frequently taken to wildlife rehabilitation centers. However, lack of knowledge of the radiographic osteoanatomy of this species may prevent appropriate management of injuries and thereby reduce the chances of successful release and survival. In order to fill this knowledge gap, this article describes for the first time the radiographic anatomy of the thoracic limb of the northern tamandua using four standard views and one additional view. The additional orthogonal view helps visualize structures, such as the hamatus process and the sesamoid bone, that are otherwise difficult to visualize due to the natural forearm position of anteaters. Additionally, some fractures and physeal growth plates were identified in one juvenile individual. Further radiographic investigations should be conducted on anteaters to provide more tools for diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of these animals.

Development of a Novel Ex-vivo 3D Model to Screen Amoebicidal Activity on Infected Tissue.

Amoebiasis is a parasitic disease that causes thousands of deaths every year, its adverse effects and resistance to conventional treatments have led to the search of new treatment options, as well as the development of novel screening methods. In this work, we implemented a 3D model of intestine and liver slices from hamsters that were infected ex vivo with virulent E. histolytica trophozoites. Results show preserved histology in both uninfected tissues as well as ulcerations, destruction of the epithelial cells, and inflammatory reaction in intestine slices and formation of micro abscesses, and the presence of amoebae in the sinusoidal spaces and in the interior of central veins in liver slices. The three chemically synthetized compounds T-001, T-011, and T-016, which act as amoebicides in vitro, were active in both infected tissues, as they decreased the number of trophozoites, and provoked death by disintegration of the amoeba, similar to metronidazole. However, compound T-011 induced signs of cytotoxicity to liver slices. Our results suggest that ex vivo cultures of precision-cut intestinal and liver slices represent a reliable 3D approach to evaluate novel amoebicidal compounds, and to simultaneously detect their toxicity, while reducing the number of experimental animals commonly required by other model systems.

Evaluación de la respuesta inflamatoria en ratas Wistar a TheraCalTM LC implantado vía subcutánea / Evaluation of the inflammatory response in Wistar rats to TheraCalTM LC implanted subcutaneously

El Theracal TM LC es un cemento silicato de calcio (Ca) modificado con resina (SMCR) que ha demostrado ser un material ideal para el tratamiento dentino-pulpar por su alta tasa de formación de calcio. Los biomateriales por su contenido de Ca tienden a tener un aumento en su biodisponibilidad, estimulando la formación del puente dentario atreves de las células involucradas en la formación de tejidos mineralizados, promoviendo la diferenciación de fibroblastos en odontoblastos y aumentando la actividad de la enzima pirofostasa responsable en la mineralización de la dentina. El presente estudio con el objetivo de evaluar la respuesta inflamatoria a Theracal TM LC subcutáneamente en ratas Wistar. Fueron usados seis ratas cepa Wistar en las cuales se realizaron cuatro bolsillos quirúrgicos subcutáneos. Cada uno de estos bolsillos se determinó como cuadrante distinto, conteniendo los siguientes implantes: 1 Theracal TM LC en tubo polietileno, 2 tubo de polietileno, 3 Theracal TM LC directo y 4 como control. Las muestras histológicas se procesaron y se evaluaron distintos tipos celulares mediante conteo a microscopio de luz a 100X utilizando las tinciones H&E y AT pH 2.3. Los resultados mostraron que existen diferencias significativas en todos los tipos celulares observados durante los diferentes tiempos de exposición. Las diferencias en los tipos celulares observados podrían ser debido al tiempo de exposición al Theracal TM LC, al tubo polietileno y a ambos. El tejido evaluado del implante del tubo polietileno y al tubo polietileno con Theracal TM LC, presentan mayor respuesta inflamatoria, a diferencia en el tejido implantado con Theracal TM LC directamente.

TheraCalTM LC is a resin-modified calcium silicate (Ca) resin (SMCR) that has proven to be an ideal material for dentin-pulp treatment due to its high rate of calcium formation. Biomaterials due to their Ca content tend to have an increase in their bioavailability, stimulating the formation of the dental bridge through the cells involved in the formation of mineralized tissues, promoting the differentiation of fibroblasts in odontoblasts and increasing the activity of the pyrophosphate enzyme responsible in dentin mineralization. The present study aimed to evaluate the inflammatory response to TheracalTM LC subcutaneously in Wistar rats. Six Wistar strain rats were used in which four subcutaneous surgical pockets were made. Each of these pockets was determined as a different quadrant, containing the following implants: 1 TheracalTM LC in polyethylene tube, 2 polyethylene tubes, 3 TheracalTM LC direct and 4 as control. The histological samples were processed, and different cell types were evaluated by light microscopy at 100X using the H&E and AT pH 2.3 stains. The results showed that there are significant differences in all cell types observed during the different exposure times. The differences in the cell types observed could be due to the exposure time to TheracalTM LC, to the polyethylene tube and to both. The evaluated tissue of the polyethylene tube implant and the polyethylene tube with TheracalTM LC present a greater inflammatory response, unlike in the tissue implanted with TheracalTM LC directly.

Evaluación de la actividad antioxidante de Cnidoscolus chayamansa (Chaya), Euphorbia prostrata (Hierba de la Golondrina) y Jatropha dioica (Sangre de Drago) en ratas Wistar inducidas a hiperglicemia / Evaluation of the antioxidant activity of Cnidoscolus chayamansa (Chaya), Euphorbia prostrata (Herb of the Swallow) and Jatropha dioica (Drago blood) in Wistar rats induced to hyperglycemia

RESUMEN: Estudios recientes han demostrado que los compuestos activos presentes en extractos de C. chayamansa, E. prostrata y J. dioica tienen propiedades antioxidantes. Los resultados obtenidos en nuestro estudio fueron compuestos fenólicos solubles mostraron en C. chayamansa 6,34, E. prostrata 10,67, J. dioica 1,83 mg equiv de ácido gálico/gm BS respectivamente. Los antioxidantes solubles en agua por el método ABTS fueron para C. chayamansa 5.9, E. prostrata 12.7 y para J. dioica 2.5 mM equiv. de trolox/gr BS. Los resultados histopatológicos muestran una mejoría en los tejidos tratados con los extractos después de la inducción a hiperglicemia.

SUMMARY: Recent studies have shown that the active compounds present in extracts of C. chayamansa, E. prostrata and J. dioica have antioxidant properties. The results obtained in our study were soluble phenolic compounds showed in C. chayamansa 6.34, E. prostrata 10.67, J. dioica 1.83 mg equiv of gallic acid/gm BS respectively. The antioxidants soluble in water by the ABTS method were for C. chayamansa 5.9, E. prostrata 12.7 and for J. dioica 2.5 mM equiv. of trolox/gr BS. The histopathological results show an improvement in the tissues treated with the extracts after the induction to hyperglycemia.

Telomere length analysis in residents of a community exposed to arsenic.

Differentiated cells telomere length is an indicator of senescence or lifespan; however, in peripheral blood leukocytes the relative shortening of the telomere has been considered as a biological marker of aging, and lengthening telomere as an associated risk to cancer. Individual's age, type of tissue, lifestyle, and environmental factors make telomere length variable. The presence of environmental carcinogens such as arsenic (As) influence as causal agents of these alterations, the main modes of action for As described are oxidative stress, reduction in DNA repair capacity, overexpression of genes, alteration of telomerase activity, and damage to telomeres. The telomeres of leukocytes resulting a finite capacity of replication due to the low or no activity of the telomerase enzyme, therefore, elongation telomere in this kind of cells is a potential biological marker associated with the development of chronic diseases and carcinogenesis.

Percepción materna de los signos, síntomas de alarma y creencias populares sobre el cuidado y las enfermedades neonatales en el departamento de emergencias pediátricas

Introducción: La percepción materna de los signos de alarma y las creencias populares influyen en el cuidado de los neonatos. El objetivo del presente trabajo fue describir la percepción materna de los signos de alarma y las creencias culturales relacionadas al cuidado del neonato. Material y Método: Estudio observacional descriptivo prospectivo. Previo consentimiento informado se realizó una entrevista, con preguntas abiertas y cerradas a madres de neonatos con nivel de prioridad de la atención II y III en el Departamento de emergencias pediátricas (DEP). Variables: Edad materna, escolaridad, procedencia, paridad, edad del neonato, antecedente de haber estado hospitalizado, motivo de la consulta, orientaciones sobre los cuidados neonatales, concepto de fiebre, signos de enfermedad grave y las llamadas enfermedades culturales. Los datos fueron procesados en SPSS v21 utilizando estadísticas descriptivas. Resultados: Se encuestó a 100 madres, la mayoría procedente del departamento Central, con estudios secundarios y más de la mitad era primíparas. El 63% definió correctamente la fiebre. Solo el 25% recibió orientación sobre los cuidados del neonato por personal sanitario. El 90% reconoció la fiebre como signo de alarma. El 25 % manifestó creer en las llamadas enfermedades culturales. El 40% de los neonatos usaba ombliguero, y el 51% llevaba una cinta roja atada a la muñeca como medida de protección contra el mal. Conclusiones: La mayoría de las madres tuvo una adecuada percepción de al menos 2 signos de alarma Un cuarto de estas mujeres creía en las enfermedades culturales y más de la mitad de sus neonatos tenía amuletos contra el mal.

Introduction: Maternal understanding of warning signs and symptoms and popular beliefs influence the care of newborns. The objective of this study was to describe the maternal understanding of warning signs and the cultural beliefs related to newborn care. Methods: This was a prospective, descriptive, observational study. After obtaining informed consent, an interview, using open and closed questions was performed with mothers of newborns presenting with priority levels of care II and III in the Pediatric Emergency Department (PED). Variables: Maternal age, education, prove-nance, parity, age of the newborn, history of having been hospitalized, chief complaint, guidance on newborn care, understanding of fever and signs of serious illness and so-called cultural diseases. The data was processed in SPSS v21 using descriptive statistics. Results: 100 mothers were surveyed, most of them from Central Department and with secondary-level education. More than half were primiparous. 63% correctly defined fever. Only 25% received guidance from health personnel re-garding newborn care. 90% recognized fever as a warning sign. 25% said they believe in the so-called cultural diseases. 40% of neonates wore bellybands, and 51% wore a red ribbon tied to the wrist as a protective measure against evil. Conclusions: Most mothers had an adequate understan-ding of at least 2 warning signs. A quarter of these women believed in cultural diseases and more than half of their neonates had amulets against evil.

Analysis of microsatellite markers in a Cuban water buffalo breed.

The aim of this Regional Research Communication was to validate a panel of 30 microsatellite markers recommended by FAO/ISAG for studies of biodiversity in cattle to improve the characterisation of Cuban buffalo populations. The water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) is an economically important livestock species. Therefore, research focused on the study of the genetic relationships among water buffalo populations is useful to support conservation decisions and to design breeding schemes. Twenty-eight of the 30 tested regions were amplified, one of which (ETH10) turned out to be monomorphic. A total of 143 alleles were observed in the Cuban water buffalo population. The average number of alleles per locus was 5·04. The number of alleles per polymorphic locus ranged from two (INRA 63 and MM12) to nine (ETH185). The observed and expected heterozygosity ranged from 0·108 (HAUT24) to 0·851 (CSSM66) and 0·104 (MM12) to 0·829(INRA32), respectively. The polymorphic information content (PIC) ranged from 0·097 (MM12) to 0·806 (INRA32), and the overall value for these markers was 0·482. Within the population, inbreeding estimates (F IS) was positive in 14 of the 30 loci analysed. This study thus highlights the usefulness of heterologous bovine microsatellite markers to assess the genetic variability in Cuban water buffalo breeds. Furthermore, the results can be utilised for future breeding strategies and conservation.

Animals in the Zika Virus Life Cycle: What to Expect from Megadiverse Latin American Countries.

Zika virus (ZIKV) was first isolated in 1947 in primates in Uganda, West Africa. The virus remained confined to the equatorial regions of Africa and Asia, cycling between infecting monkeys, arboreal mosquitoes, and occasionally humans. The ZIKV Asiatic strain was probably introduced into Brazil in or around late 2013. Presently, ZIKV is in contact with the rich biodiversity in all Brazilian biomes, bordering on other Latin American countries. Infections in Brazilian primates have been reported recently, but the overall impact of this virus on wildlife in the Americas is still unknown. The current epidemic in the Americas requires knowledge on the role of mammals, especially nonhuman primates (NHPs), in ZIKV transmission to humans. The article discusses the available data on ZIKV in host animals and issues of biodiversity, rapid environmental change, and impact on human health in megadiverse Latin American countries. The authors reviewed scientific articles and recent news stories on ZIKV in animals, showing that 47 animal species from three orders (mammals, reptiles, and birds) have been investigated for the potential to establish a sylvatic cycle. The review aims to contribute to epidemiological studies and the knowledge on the natural history of ZIKV. The article concludes with questions that require urgent attention in epidemiological studies involving wildlife in order to understand their role as ZIKV hosts and to effectively control the epidemic.

Descriptions and records of Cladiopsocidae and Dolabellopsocidae (Insecta: Psocodea: 'Psocoptera') from Valle del Cauca and National Natural Park Gorgona, Colombia.

The results of a survey on the species diversity of the families Cladiopsocidae and Dolabellopsocidae (Psocodea: 'Psocoptera': Psocomorpha: Epipsocetae) in Valle del Cauca and in the National Natural Park (NNP) Gorgona, Colombia, are presented. The specimens studied were collected in the context of two scientific projects, in which 12 species in the two families were identified, five in Cladiopsocidae and seven in Dolabellopsocidae. In the first family, Cladiopsocus presented a new record in the country and four new species; in the latter, two genera were identified, Dolabellopsocus, with three new species and two new records, and Isthmopsocus, with two new species. This study presents the description of the nine new species from Valle del Cauca and NNP Gorgona, the new records for Colombia and identification keys to the neotropical species of both families.

Genotoxic and hematological effects in children exposed to a chemical mixture in a petrochemical area in Mexico.

Children living in Coatzacoalcos, Veracruz, and in nearby surrounding areas are exposed to a mixture of pollutants from different sources. Previous studies in the area have reported genotoxic and haematotoxic compounds, such as lead (Pb), benzene, toluene, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), in environmental and biological samples. The final toxic effects of these compounds are unknown because the toxic behaviour of each compound is modified when in a complex mixture. This is the first study on the exposure and effect of chemical mixtures on children who live near a petrochemical area. The aim of this study was to evaluate genotoxicity and haematological effects in children environmentally exposed to such mixtures and to determine whether the final effect was modified by the composition of the mixture composition. Biomarkers of exposure to Pb, benzene, toluene, and PAHs were quantified in urine and blood samples of 102 children. DNA damage was evaluated using comet assay, and haematological parameters were determined. Our results show that Pb and toluene did not surpass the exposure guidelines; the exposure was similar in all three localities (Allenede, Mundo Nuevo, and López Mateos). In contrast, exposure to PAHs was observed at three levels of exposure: low, medium, and high. The most severe effects of these mixtures were strictly related to coexposure to high levels of PAHs.

Chronic environmental exposure to lead affects semen quality in a Mexican men population.

BACKGROUND: Male infertility is affected by several factors. Lead is one of the heavy metals more bioavailable than usually modifies the sperm quality in humans. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to establish the role of lead in semen quality in environmentally exposed men. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Semen and blood samples were obtained from two groups: the exposed group (EG=20) and the non-exposed group (NEG=27). Two semen aliquots were used, one to evaluate spermatic quality and the other for lead determination. Blood (PbB) and semen lead (PbS) determination was performed by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. RESULTS: The PbB concentration was significantly greater in the EG, 10.10±0.97 µgdL-1 than in the NEG, 6.42±0.38 µgdL-1 (p<0.01), as well as the PbS concentration, with 3.28±0.35 and 1.76±0.14µgdL-1 in the EG and NEG respectively (p=0.043). A significant correlation between PbS and PbB concentration in the EG was found (r=0.573, p=0.038). Overall, the spermatic quality was lower in the EG than in the NEG. Specifically, there were significant differences in the spermatic concentration [EG=43.98±6.26 and NEG=68.78±8.51X10(6) cellmL-1 (p<0.01)], motility [EG=49±7 and NEG=67±4% (p=0.029)], viability [EG=36.32±3.59 and NEG=72.12±1.91% (p<0.01)] and abnormal morphology [EG=67±18 and NEG=32±12% (p<0.01)]. In the immature germ cells (IGC) concentration differences were found only for A cells (EG=8.1±1.1x100 and NEG=3.2±1.9X100 spermatozoa) (p<0.01) and for Sab cells (EG=3.4±2.2x100 and NEG=1.1±1.0X100 spermatozoa) (p=0.041). CONCLUSION: These results suggest that chronic environmental exposure to low levels of lead adversely affect the spermatic quality.

Estudo em laboratório sobre a detecção do hábito alimentar para fases imaturas do carrapato Amblyomma cajennense (FABRICIUS, 1787) / Laboratory study on the detection of blood meal for immature stages of tick Amblyomma cajennense (Acari: Ixodidae)

O carrapato Amblyomma cajennense é o principal vetor da bactéria Rickettsia rickettsii, agente etiológico da febre maculosa brasileira (FMB). Os estágios imaturos destes artrópodes apresentam uma baixa especificidade para os hospedeiros, o que aumentam as chances de parasitismo em humanos. Nos anos de 2011 e 2012, a vigilância epidemiológica da FMB registrou 140 casos confirmados e letalidade de 50 por cento , a maior incidência desde a regulamentação da notificação compulsória no Estado de São Paulo, em 2001. Além disso, estudos indicam uma tendência de aumento de expansão geográfica e de número de casos da doença. A fim de aplicar medidas de controle para a FMB, a determinação de quais são os animais hospedeiros para as fases imaturas do carrapato é importante para identificar as fontes de infecção de bactérias. Entre a literatura científica não havia estudos sobre esse escopo para carrapatos da América do Sul. Neste estudo, uma abordagem para a detecção de hábito alimentar de A. cajennense foi padronizada. Resumidamente, as amostras de sangue foram coletadas a partir das seguintes espécies animais: frango, capivara, codorna, cavalo, cobaia, coelho, cachorro e um camundongo silvestre. Em seguida, o DNA foi extraído a partir destas amostras e, depois, testado para a amplificação por PCR utilizando-se três pares de diferentes oligonucleotídeos iniciadores para mamíferos, três para aves e cinco para os dois grupos de animais, além de oligonucleotídeos iniciadores específicos desenhados para roedores cricetídeos. Os genes alvos 12S rDNA, cyt b e COI resultou em positivo para a detecção de fragmentos de DNA. Por PCR foi testado posteriormente em laboratório repastos de carrapatos. Carrapatos adultos de A. cajennense que foram alimentados em coelhos quando larvas e ninfas tiveram o intestino extraído e processado para o isolamento de DNA que foi submetido à amplificação por PCR. Foi possível identificar a espécie hospedeira em 66,7 por cento dos carrapatos testados. O sequenciamento de DNA e a comparação das sequências consenso com todas as sequências do banco de dados (GenBank) permitiu a identificação em nível de espécie (coelho), com base em 98 por cento de similaridade

The tick Amblyomma cajennense is the main vector of the bacterium Rickettsia rickettsii, the etiological agent of brazilian spotted fever (BSF). The subadult stages of this arthropod present a low specificity for hosts, which increases the chances of parasitism in humans. In the years of 2011 and 2012, the BSF epidemiological surveillance recorded 140 confirmed cases and 50 per cent case-letality rate, the highest incidence since the regulation of the compulsory notification in the State of São Paulo, in 2001. Furthermore, studies indicate an increase trend for geographical expansion and number of cases of the disease. In order to apply control measures for BSF, the determination of which is the vertebrate hosts for the immature stages of the tick is important to identify the sources of infection of bacteria. Among the scientific literature there was no studies on this scope for ticks of South America. In this study, it was standardized a approach for detection of feeding habits of A. cajennense. Briefly, blood samples were collected from the following animal species: chicken, capybara, quail, horse, guinea pig, rabbit, dog and a wild mouse. Then, DNA was extracted from these samples and afterwards tested for PCR amplification using three different pairs of primers for mammals, three for birds, and five for both groups of animals in addition to a specific designed primers for cricetidae rodents. The target gene 12S rDNA, cyt b and COI resulted in positive for detection of DNA fragments. PCR was tested thereafter on laboratory fed ticks. Adult A. cajennense ticks that were fed on rabbits as larvae and nymphs had the midguts extracted and processed for DNA isolation and underwent PCR amplification. It was possible to identify the host species on 66,7 per cent of tested ticks. The DNA sequencing and comparison of the consensus sequences of all the database sequences (GenBank) allowed the identification at the species level (rabbit), based on 98 per cent similarity

Molecular and phylogenetic analysis of bovine coronavirus based on the spike glycoprotein gene.

Bovine coronavirus has been associated with diarrhoea in newborn calves, winter dysentery in adult cattle and respiratory tract infections in calves and feedlot cattle. In Cuba, the presence of BCoV was first reported in 2006. Since then, sporadic outbreaks have continued to occur. This study was aimed at deepening the knowledge of the evolution, molecular markers of virulence and epidemiology of BCoV in Cuba. A total of 30 samples collected between 2009 and 2011 were used for PCR amplification and direct sequencing of partial or full S gene. Sequence comparison and phylogenetic studies were conducted using partial or complete S gene sequences as phylogenetic markers. All Cuban bovine coronavirus sequences were located in a single cluster supported by 100% bootstrap and 1.00 posterior probability values. The Cuban bovine coronavirus sequences were also clustered with the USA BCoV strains corresponding to the GenBank accession numbers EF424621 and EF424623, suggesting a common origin for these viruses. This phylogenetic cluster was also the only group of sequences in which no recombination events were detected. Of the 45 amino acid changes found in the Cuban strains, four were unique.