Firearms and Extortions in Mexico, 2012 to 2021.

The study of firearm violence in Mexico has primarily focused on homicides and trafficking. Less attention has been given to understanding how firearms affect other crimes and facilitate criminal activity beyond drug markets. By analyzing two questions, this study explores the role of firearms in extortions perpetrated in Mexico from 2012 to 2021. Questions are: What is the likelihood of reporting extortions to the police if offenders exhibited firearms? What is the likelihood of compliance with demands when offenders are armed with firearms? We obtained data from Mexico's National Crime Victimization Surveys and analyzed 2,619 extortions reported from 2012 to 2021. To explore our research questions, we ran two binary logistic regressions. Our dependent variables were dichotomous (reported to police = 1, complied with demands = 1). The independent variables were weapon types (extortions involving firearms as the reference group). We controlled for victim demographics as well as crime characteristics. Our results indicate that 40% of these extortions (n = 1,058) were perpetrated with a firearm. Fifty-two percent of extortions were perpetrated by unarmed offenders (n = 1,348) and 8% (n = 213) were perpetrated with other weapons (no firearms). Models suggest that, when compared to extortions perpetrated by unarmed offenders or those exhibiting other weapons (no firearms), victims of extortions involving firearms are less likely to report these crimes to police, mainly because of fear of reprisal. Similarly, victims are more likely to comply with demands if offenders exhibit firearms. Findings highlight the role of firearms in criminal enterprises and support the need for a comprehensive policy agenda to address firearm violence in Mexico.

Spatio-temporal composition of aquatic birds communityin Juluapan Lagoon, Colima, Mexican Central Pacific / Composición espacio-temporal de las aves acuáticas en la laguna Juluapan, Colima, en el Pacífico Central Mexicano

Abstract Introduction: Aquatic birds (AB) are usually associated with wetlands, which provide refuge, food, and/or nesting sites for resident and migratory species. Despite their ecological importance, there is little knowledge on AB in some tropical environments, such as those found on the Colima coast. Objective: To investigate the spatial and temporal composition of the AB community in Juluapan Lagoon, Colima, Central Mexican Pacific. Methods: Monthly counts were conducted between June 2017 and May 2018 during low-tide conditions to record habitat use by AB. Species richness and bird counts were obtained to compare sampling areas; mean richness and number of individuals were compared between seasons. Results: We detected 53 species and 5 750 individuals. The highest species richness and relative abundance values were obtained in winter at the lagoon area farthest from the connection with the marine system, where anthropogenic activity is lower. Diversity was greater in zones 2 and 3 in spring, summer, and fall. Muddy flats were the most used environment, and the most frequent activity was resting. Nesting activity was only recorded in the middle of the lagoon at the mangrove during spring. "Shorebirds" and "waders" were the most dominant groups in the bird community of the Juluapan lagoon. Conclusions: This coastal wetland is a site of great biological importance for aquatic birds; thus, conservation measures should be implemented, and there should be a continuous study of the effects of anthropogenic pressure.

Resumen Introducción: Las aves acuáticas (AA) son usualmente relacionadas a los humedales debido a que éstos funcionan como sitios de refugio, alimentación y anidación de diferentes especies residentes y migratorias. Sin embargo, el conocimiento sobre las aves acuáticas en algunos humedales es nulo. Objetivo: Investigar la composición espacio-temporal de la comunidad de AA en la laguna Juluapan, Colima, en el Pacífico Central Mexicano. Métodos: Entre junio de 2017 y mayo de 2018 se llevaron a cabo conteos mensuales en condiciones de marea baja para registrar el uso de hábitat de las AA. Se obtuvieron valores de riqueza de especies y número de individuos para realizar comparaciones entre zonas de muestreo, así como el promedio del número de especies y número de individuos para comparaciones entre temporadas. Resultados: Se registraron un total de 53 especies y 5 750 individuos. Los valores de riqueza de especies y densidad de individuos fueron más altos durante invierno, en la zona más alejada al ambiente marino, donde la actividad antropogénica es menor. La diversidad tuvo valores más altos en la zona 2 y 3, durante primavera, verano y otoño. El ambiente más explotado por las aves fueron las planicies lodosas; y el descanso fue la actividad más frecuente. Asimismo, la actividad de anidación sólo se registró en el manglar de la zona media durante primavera. Las "aves playeras" y "aves zancudas" fueron los grupos más predominantes en la comunidad de aves de la laguna Juluapan. Conclusiones: Este humedal costero es un sitio de gran importancia biológica para aves acuáticas, por lo que resulta necesario la implementación de medidas de conservación, así como el estudio de los efectos por la presión antropogénica.

Lista de recursos taller: impuestos al alcohol en Brasil, Colombia y México

Plan de acción mundial sobre el alcohol 2022-2030. OMS. 2024. Global alcohol action plan 20222030. WHO. 2024.

Traces of the past: assessing the impact of potentially toxic elements from an abandoned mine on groundwater and agricultural soil in San Luis Potosí, México.

The study was conducted in Cerritos, San Luis Potosí, México, near the Guaxcama mine, focused on environmental contamination (groundwater and agricultural soil) from antimony (Sb), arsenic (As), lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), and mercury (Hg). In March 2022, 20 agricultural soil and 16 groundwater samples were collected near the historically cinnabar (HgS)- and arsenopyrite (FeAsS)-rich Guaxcama mine. Hydride generation atomic fluorescence spectrometry (HG-AFS) for As, cold vapor atomic fluorescence spectrometry (CV-AFS) for Hg, and inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) for Cd, Pb, and Sb were used for the determinations of potentially toxic elements (PTEs). While concentrations of Cd, Hg, Pb, and Sb in groundwater were below detection limits, As levels exhibited a range from 40.9 ± 1.4 to 576.0 ± 1.0 µg/L, exceeding permissible limits for drinking water (10 µg/L). In agricultural soil, As was between 7.67 ± 0.16 and 24.1 ± 0.4 µg/g, Hg ranged from 0.203 ± 0.018 to 2.33 ± 0.19 µg/g, Cd from 2.53 ± 0.90 to 2.78 ± 0.01 µg/g, and Pb from 11.7 ± 1.2 to 34.3 ± 4.1 µg/g. Only one study area surpassed the Mexican As soil limit of 22 µg/g. Sequential extraction (four-step BCR procedure) indicated significant As bioavailability in soil (fractions 1 and 2) ranging from 3.66 to 10.36%, heightening the risk of crop transfer, in contrast to the low bioavailability of Hg, showing that fractions 1, 2, and 3 were below the limit of quantification (LOQ). Crucial physicochemical parameters in soil, including nitrate levels, pH, and organic matter, were pivotal in understanding contamination dynamics. Principal component analysis highlighted the influence of elements like Fe and Ca on phytoavailable As, while Pb and Cd likely originated from a common source. Ecological risk assessments underscored the significant impact of pollution, primarily due to the concentrations of Cd and Hg. Non-cancer and cancer risks to residents through As poisoning via contaminated water ingestion also were found. The hazard index (HI) values varied between 4.0 and 82.2 for adults and children. The total incremental lifetime cancer risk (TILCAR) values for adults ranged from 7.75E - 04 to 1.06E - 02, whereas for children, the values were from 2.47E - 04 to 3.17E - 03.

Sustainable quaternary binders made from metallurgical wastes of northeast Mexico: strength, hydration products, and durability.

In this research, four industrial wastes were used for up to 80% as supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) in cement mortar systems: ground granulated blast furnace slag, electric arc furnace slag, basic oxygen furnace slag, and waste limestone powder. Quaternary cementitious blends were prepared and studied for up to 120 days. Workability, compressive strength, durability, microstructures, and sustainability studies were performed and compared with Portland cement references. Results showed that more than 30 MPa in compressive strength can be achieved by > 50% replacement with SCMs; only 9% below the reference. Neither H2SO4 nor MgSO4 attacks resulted in critical damages; nevertheless, curing under NaCl solution showed detrimental behavior. C-S-H with a low Ca/Si ratio was identified in the mortars as the main hydration product, possibly intermixed with stratlingite, C-A-S-H and/or hydrotalcite. Environmental impact for the blended cements was determined as the CO2eq. factor from a simple life cycle assessment. The embodied greenhouse gasses varied in 260.2-541.4 kg CO2eq./ton of binder depending on the formulation. This was 40-70% less than Portland cement (922.6 kg CO2eq./ton). The production of the raw materials dominated the polluting emissions, while freight, grinding, and sieving had little environmental impact.

Reference equations for DLNO and DLCO in Mexican Hispanics: influence of altitude and race.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to evaluate pulmonary diffusing capacity for nitric oxide (DLNO) and pulmonary diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO) in Mexican Hispanics born and raised at 2240 m altitude (midlanders) compared with those born and raised at sea level (lowlanders). It also aimed to assess the effectiveness of race-specific reference equations for pulmonary diffusing capacity (white people vs Mexican Hispanics) in minimising root mean square errors (RMSE) compared with race-neutral equations. METHODS: DLNO, DLCO, alveolar volume (VA) and gas transfer coefficients (KNO and KCO) were measured in 392 Mexican Hispanics (5 to 78 years) and compared with 1056 white subjects (5 to 95 years). Reference equations were developed using segmented linear regression (DLNO, DLCO and VA) and multiple linear regression (KNO and KCO) and validated with Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator. RMSE comparisons between race-specific and race-neutral models were conducted using repeated k-fold cross-validation and random forests. RESULTS: Midlanders exhibited higher DLCO (mean difference: +4 mL/min/mm Hg), DLNO (mean difference: +7 mL/min/mm Hg) and VA (mean difference: +0.17 L) compared with lowlanders. The Bayesian information criterion favoured race-specific models and excluding race as a covariate increased RMSE by 61% (DLNO), 18% (DLCO) and 4% (KNO). RMSE values for VA and KCO were comparable between race-specific and race-neutral models. For DLCO and DLNO, race-neutral equations resulted in 3% to 6% false positive rates (FPRs) in Mexican Hispanics and 20% to 49% false negative rates (FNRs) in white subjects compared with race-specific equations. CONCLUSIONS: Mexican Hispanics born and raised at 2240 m exhibit higher DLCO and DLNO compared with lowlanders. Including race as a covariate in reference equations lowers the RMSE for DLNO, DLCO and KNO and reduces FPR and FNR compared with race-neutral models. This study highlights the need for altitude-specific and race-specific reference equations to improve pulmonary function assessments across diverse populations.

Chemical Characterization and Assessment of Public Health Risk due to Inhalation of PM2.5 in the City of Salamanca, Guanajuato.

In this study, we conducted an analysis of health risks faced by residents of Salamanca, Mexico, who were exposed to fine particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 µm (PM2.5) through inhalation. The characterization and analysis of these particulate matter samples were undertaken. A total of 131 samples were collected from two different sites: 65 from the Red Cross site (RC) and 66 from the Integral Family Development site (DIF) in 2014-2015. These samples were analyzed for a set of chemical components, including metals and ions. Non-cancerous health risk levels associated with PM2.5 exposure through the human respiratory system, as per the WHO benchmark (assigned a value of 1), revealed notable risk values for two elements: Manganese (Mn) with a range of 1.19-2.12 in the adult population and 1.59-2.84 in the child population, and Nickel (Ni) with a uniform risk value of 1.39 for both evaluated population groups. However, concerns arose regarding potential non-cancerous effects as the cumulative risk levels for various assessed elements showed elevated indices. These ranged from 3.81 to 4.4 in adults and 4.48-5.24 in children. This study provided comprehensive data on composition and its potential impact on human health, offering valuable insights for the implementation of mitigation measures aimed at reducing inhalation-related exposure.

A cascade of care for diabetes in people living with HIV in a tertiary care center in Mexico City.

BACKGROUND: Diabetes affects 4.5% of people living with HIV in Mexico. This study aims to describe the diabetes cascade of care (DMC) in people with HIV in a tertiary center in Mexico City. METHODS: We conducted a single-center review of people with HIV aged over 18, using medical records of active people enrolled at the Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán (INCMNSZ) HIV Clinic (HIVC). Our analysis focused on their last visit to describe the DMC, aiming to identify gaps in control goals. We included people who had a consultation within the 12 months preceding May 2020. RESULTS: Out of the 2072 active people, medical records were available for 2050 (98.9%). Among these, 326 people (15.9%) had fasting glucose (FG) abnormalities, of which 133 (40.7%) had diabetes. The prevalence of diabetes among people with HIV was of 6.4% (133/2050). Regarding the DMC, the following proportions of people achieved control goals: 133/133 (100%) received medical care in the last 12 months, 123/123 (100%) had blood pressure (BP) <140/90 mmHg, 73/132 (55.3%) had LDL cholesterol (c-LDL) <100 mg/dl, 63/132 (47.7%) had FG <130 mg/dl, 50/116 (43.1%) had glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) <7%. ABC goals (HbA1c <7%, c-LDL <100 mg/dl, BP <140/90 mmHg) were met in 28/109 (25.6%) people. 126/133 (94%) people with HIV achieved HIV-viral load <50 copies/mL. CONCLUSIONS: Despite the high rate of viral suppression among people with HIV and diabetes, significant challenges remain in achieving comprehensive diabetes control. These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to improve metabolic outcomes and the overall management of diabetes in people with HIV.

Associations between Dietary Patterns, Fluoride Intake and Excretion in Women Exposed to Fluoridated Salt: A Preliminary Study.

Abundant information exists on fluoride intake and excretion in populations exposed to fluoridated water, but not fluoridated salt, where fluoride is eaten through a combination of foods and beverages. This study assessed associations between dietary patterns, fluoride intake and excretion in Mexican women exposed to fluoridated salt. We estimated dietary fluoride intake and excretion (mg/day) from 31 women using 24-h recalls (ASA24) and 24-h urine collections (HDMS diffusion method) and assessed agreement among both estimates of exposure with a Bland-Altman plot. Dietary patterns among the sample were explored by Principal Component Analysis and associations between these patterns and both fluoride intake and excretion were estimated. using Quantile Regressions. Median dietary fluoride intake and excretion were 0.95 and 0.90 mg/day, respectively, with better agreement at values below 1.5 mg/day. We identified three dietary patterns: "Urban Convenience", "Plant-based" and "Egg-based". The "Urban Convenience" pattern, characterized by dairy and convenience foods was associated with an increase of 0.25 mg and 0.34 mg of F in the 25th and 50th percentiles of intake respectively, (p < 0.01), and a marginal 0.22 mg decrease in urinary fluoride (p = 0.06). In conclusion, in this sample of Mexican women, a dietary pattern rich in dairy and convenience foods, was associated with both fluoride intake and excretion.

Genetic and Anthropometric Interplay: How Waist-to-Hip Ratio Modulates LDL-c Levels in Mexican Population.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Genetic factors contribute to the physiopathology of obesity and its comorbidities. This study aimed to investigate the association of the SNPs ABCA1 (rs9282541), ADIPOQ (rs2241766), FTO (rs9939609), GRB14 (rs10195252), and LEPR (rs1805134) with various clinical, anthropometric, and biochemical variables. METHODS: The study included 396 Mexican mestizo individuals with obesity and 142 individuals with normal weight. Biochemical markers were evaluated from peripheral blood samples, and SNP genotyping was performed using PCR with TaqMan probes. A genetic risk score (GRS) was computed using an additive model. RESULTS: No significant associations were found between the SNPs ABCA1, ADIPOQ, FTO, and LEPR with obesity. However, the T allele of the GRB14 SNP was significantly associated with obesity (χ2 = 5.93, p = 0.01; OR = 1.52; 95% CI: 1.08-2.12). A multivariate linear regression model (adjusted R-squared: 0.1253; p < 0.001) predicting LDL-c levels among all participants (n = 538) identified significant (p < 0.05) beta coefficients for several anthropometric and biochemical variables, as well as for the GRS. Additionally, the interaction between the GRS and the waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) showed a negative beta coefficient (BC = -26.5307; p = 0.014). Participants with a WHR < 0.839 showed no effect of GRS on LDL-c concentration, while those with a WHR > 0.839 exhibited a greater effect of GRS (~9) at lower LDL-c concentrations (~50 mg/dL) and a lesser effect of GRS (~7) at higher LDL-c concentrations (~250 mg/dL). CONCLUSIONS: A significant interaction between genetics and WHR influences LDL-c in Mexicans, which may contribute to the prevention and clinical management of dyslipidemia and cardiovascular disease.

Role of Genetic Polymorphisms -238 G>A and -308 G>A, and Serum TNF-α Levels in a Cohort of Mexican Pediatric Neuroblastoma Patients: Preliminary Study.

The results of in vitro and in vivo studies have shown the pro-tumor effects of TNF-α, and this cytokine's increased expression is associated with poor prognosis in patients with some types of cancer. Our study objective was to evaluate the possible association of TNF-α genetic polymorphisms and serum levels with susceptibility and prognosis in a cohort of Mexican patients with NB. We performed PCR-RFLP and ELISA methods to analyze the genetics of these SNPs and determine serum concentrations, respectively. The distribution of the -308 G>A and -238 G>A polymorphisms TNFα genotypes was considerably different between patients with NB and the control group. The SNP rs1800629 GG/GA genotypes were associated with a decreased risk of NB (OR = 0.1, 95% CI = 0.03-0.393, p = 0.001) compared with the AA genotype, which was associated with susceptibility to NB (OR = 2.89, 95% CI = 1.45-5.76, p = 0.003) and related to unfavorable histology and high-risk NB. The rs361525 polymorphism GG genotype was associated with a lower risk of developing NB compared with the GA and AA genotypes (OR = 0.2, 95% CI = 0.068-0.63, p = 0.006). Circulating TNF-α serum concentrations were significantly different (p < 0.001) between patients with NB and healthy controls; however, we found no relationship between the analyzed TNF-α serum levels and SNP genotypes. We found associations between the rs1800629AA genotype and lower event-free survival (p = 0.026); SNP rs361525 and TNF-α levels were not associated with survival in patients with NB. Our results suggest the TNF-α SNP rs1800629 as a probable factor of NB susceptibility. The -308 G/A polymorphism AA genotype has a probable role in promoting NB development and poor prognosis associated with unfavorable histology, high-risk tumors, and lower EFS in Mexican patients with NB. It should be noted that it is important to conduct research on a larger scale, through inter-institutional studies, to further evaluate the contribution of TNF-α genetic polymorphisms to the risk and prognosis of NB.

Current Overview of Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 7 in Mexican Population: Challenges in Specialized Care for a Rare Disease.

Spinocerebellar ataxia type 7 (SCA7) is a rare genetic disease characterized by progressive cerebellar syndrome and macular degeneration. In a previous study, we clinically and genetically characterized a group of Mexican patients, which represented one of the largest cohorts of SCA7 patients worldwide and demonstrated that all patients had a unique genetic origin. Our laboratory developed a program for the diagnosis, medical care, and long-term follow-up of these patients living in Veracruz State, and in this report, we present an update to this research, covering 2013 to 2024. So far, we identified 172 SCA7 carriers, with a few cases outside Veracruz, and our data support that the length of the CAG repeat tract mainly determines disease severity and life expectancy, and accordingly, we define three different phenotypes, early-onset (EO), classical-onset (CO), and late-onset (LO), with EO patients showing the lowest life expectancy. Furthermore, we found that parental transmission of mutant alleles leads to increased CAG repeat instability, compared to maternal ones. Interestingly, a haplotype analysis revealed that patients outside Veracruz may have different genetic origins. In conclusion, longitudinal observations of SCA7 patients provide insight into the natural history of SCA7 and help to design strategies for diagnosis, genetic counseling, physical rehabilitation, and therapeutic alternatives.

Oral glucose tolerance test curve shape in Mexican children and adolescents with and without obesity.

OBJECTIVES: Mexican children with obesity are at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The aim of the study was to compare oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) characteristics: time of peak glucose, glucose level ≥155 mg/dL at 1 h, presence of metabolic syndrome (MetS), sensitivity, secretion, and oral disposition index (oDI) in children with and without obesity, according to oral glucose tolerance curve shape: monophasic or biphasic. METHODS: Cross-sectional study including 143 children. Groups were divided into (a) obese: biphasic (B-Ob) (n=55) and monophasic (M-Ob) (n=50), (b) without obesity: biphasic (B-NonOb) (n=20) and monophasic (M-NonOb) (n=18). RESULTS: Late glucose peak was more frequent in the M-Ob group (p<0.001). Glucose levels ≥155 mg/dL and MetS were more frequent in the M-Ob group but did not show significance. The groups with obesity (biphasic and monophasic) had higher indices of insulin resistance and insulin secretion compared to the nonobese groups (biphasic and monophasic) (p<0.001). AUC glucose was higher in the M-Ob group (p<0.05), and AUC insulin was higher in the M-NonOb group. oDI (Matsuda) was significantly lower in the M-Ob group compared to the other groups (p<0.001), and oDI-HOMA IR was higher in M-NonOb group (p=0.03). CONCLUSIONS: All OGTT parameters could help to identify Mexican children at increased risk of developing T2DM, not only fasting plasma glucose and 2 h glucose. M-Ob in non-T2DM Mexican children reflects an early defect in glucose metabolism. Higher level of IR indexes in M-NonOb vs. B-NonOb could indicate an increased risk for T2DM of genetic origin.

Traditional Medicine, Culture, and Psychedelic Science: New Pathways for Recovery From Substance Use Disorders.

OBJECTIVE: This article provides an intercultural transdisciplinary perspective on the Indigenous roots of the resurging field of psychedelic science in the management of substance use disorders (SUDs). Ritual uses of entheogens (i.e., psychedelics of natural origin) are elaborate technologies for navigating, containing, and therapeutically directing non-ordinary states of consciousness induced by these compounds. METHOD: A narrative review of the literature on the therapeutic potential of ayahuasca, peyote, psilocybin-containing mushrooms, Incilius alvarius-derived 5-MeO-DMT (5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine), and iboga for the treatment of SUDs was conducted. This article also describes the application of some of these entheogens within a pilot intercultural clinical program implemented by the Yaqui tribe in Sonora, Mexico, for the treatment of SUDs and other mental health challenges. RESULTS: Observational research and preliminary clinical studies indicate the therapeutic potential and relative safety of these compounds in appropriate contexts, including the use of careful screening practices and complementary psychotherapeutic interventions. CONCLUSIONS: Preliminary research points to the potential therapeutic value of integrating entheogenic plant and fungi medicine with culturally attuned therapeutic strategies. Respectful intercultural dialogue across worldviews and scientific paradigms allows for the further development of new perspectives at the intersection of entheogens, addiction treatment, mental health, and traditional medicine. More interdisciplinary research is necessary in this field.

Identification of Pathogenic Copy Number Variants in Mexican Patients With Inherited Retinal Dystrophies Applying an Exome Sequencing Data-Based Read-Depth Approach.

BACKGROUND: Retinal dystrophies (RDs) are the most common cause of inherited blindness worldwide and are caused by genetic defects in about 300 different genes. While targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS) has been demonstrated to be a reliable and efficient method to identify RD disease-causing variants, it doesn't routinely identify pathogenic structural variant as copy number variations (CNVs). Targeted NGS-based CNV detection has become a crucial step for RDs molecular diagnosis, particularly in cases without identified causative single nucleotide or Indels variants. Herein, we report the exome sequencing (ES) data-based read-depth bioinformatic analysis in a group of 30 unrelated Mexican RD patients with a negative or inconclusive genetic result after ES. METHODS: CNV detection was performed using ExomeDepth software, an R package designed to detect CNVs using exome data. Bioinformatic validation of identified CNVs was conducted through a commercially available CNV caller. All identified candidate pathogenic CNVs were orthogonally verified through quantitative PCR assays. RESULTS: Pathogenic or likely pathogenic CNVs were identified in 6 out of 30 cases (20%), and of them, a definitive molecular diagnosis was reached in 5 cases, for a final diagnostic rate of ~17%. CNV-carrying genes included CLN3 (2 cases), ABCA4 (novel deletion), EYS, and RPGRIP1. CONCLUSIONS: Our results indicate that bioinformatic analysis of ES data is a reliable method for pathogenic CNV detection and that it should be incorporated in cases with a negative or inconclusive molecular result after ES.

Exploring plantar pressure distribution in patients with newly diagnosed diabetes: Implications for foot ulcer prevention in an overweight Mexican population.

INTRODUCTION: Elevated plantar pressure (PP) constitutes a risk factor for developing foot ulcers. Once present, elevated PP increases morbidity and mortality in patients with diabetes. Given the high prevalence of overweight and obesity in the Mexican population, this study aimed to describe the magnitudes and the distribution of the PP observed in a sample of newly diagnosed patients with diabetes, adjusting for body mass index (BMI) groups (normal weight, overweight, grade I obesity, and grade II and III obesity). MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 250 volunteers attending a comprehensive care program for the management of type 2 diabetes received foot assessments that included vascular and neurological evaluation, the identification of musculoskeletal changes, and measurements of PP. RESULTS: Diabetic neuropathy and peripheral arterial disease were present in 21.6% and 11.2% of all participants. Musculoskeletal alterations were present in 70.8% of participants. A positive and significant correlation (p<0.001) was observed between BMI and the peak PP of all anatomical regions assessed. After adjusting for BMI, significant differences (p<0.001) were seen between groups. The metatarsal region, particularly under the third metatarsal head, denoted the highest magnitudes across all BMI. CONCLUSIONS: Periodic PP assessment is recommended to identify the distribution of high-pressure points along the plantar surface. However, as a preventive measure, it is suggested to encourage patients with diabetes and overweight or obesity to wear appropriate footwear and pressure-relief insoles to relieve high-pressure areas - often seen in these populations - to help prevent foot complications.

Relationship Between Low Education and Poor Periodontal Status among Mexican Adults Aged ≥50 Years.

PURPOSE: To examine the association between educational level and the presence of periodontal disease in adults ages ≥ 50 years in Mexico. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 2098 Mexican adults, using data from the annual reports of the Epidemiological Monitoring System for Oral Pathologies from 2019-2022. Data were collected on sociodemographic characteristics such as gender, age, educational level, oral hygiene, and diabetes. Periodontal status was evaluated using the Community Periodontal Index (CPI) and was classified into: CPI = 0 (healthy); CPI = 1 (bleeding on probing); CPI = 2 (calculus); and CPI = 3 or 4 (pocket depth ≥ 4 mm). A multinomial regression model was used to estimate the odds ratio (OR) and the 95% confidence intervals (CI), using periodontal status as the result. RESULTS: 39.9% of subjects presented periodontal pockets of ≥ 4 mm, 20.8% presented calculus, and 12.8% presented bleeding, while only 26.4% were classified as healthy. A low level of education (≤ 9 years) (OR = 4.84; p 0.001), age ≥ 65 years (OR = 1.33; p = 0.025), poor oral hygiene (OR = 6.86; p 0.001), smoking (OR = 1.51; p = 0.025), and diabetes (OR = 1.73; p 0.001) were statistically significantly associated with the presence of periodontal pockets ≥ 4 mm. CONCLUSIONS: A low level of education is associated with worse periodontal status in adults aged 50 years or more. These findings reiterate the importance of implementing effective strategies and the incorporation of interventions for improving the access to and quality of services targeted at aging communities.

Table of life for beneficiaries of the Institute of Security and Social Services of State Workers (ISSSTE), Mexico 2021.

OBJECTIVE: Determine the life expectancy in the covered population of the Institute of Security and Social Services of State Workers in México for 2021. METHOD: We used the abrogated method from Reed-Merrel, for calculate the life expectancy in age groups. RESULTS: By 2021, life expectancy general was 79.51 years; 81.40 years and 78.91 years for woman and men, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The calculated life expectancy not show a reduction in the population of federal and State employees in Mexico.

OBJETIVO: Determinar la esperanza de vida en la población amparada del Instituto de Seguridad y Servicios Sociales de los Trabajadores del Estado en México para 2021. MÉTODO: Se utilizó el método abreviado de Reed-Merrel para calcular la esperanza de vida en grupos quinquenales de edad. RESULTADOS: Para 2021, la esperanza de vida general fue de 79.51 años; de 81.40 años y 78.91 años para mujeres y para hombres, respectivamente. CONCLUSIONES: La esperanza de vida calculada no presentó reducción después de la pandemia de COVID-19 para la población de empleados federales de México en 2021.

Acute kidney injury and mortality in patients with critical COVID-19 in Mexico: case-control study.

OBJECTIVE: We aimed to test the association between acute kidney injury (AKI) and mortality in critically ill patients with Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). METHOD: We conducted a single-center case-control study at the intensive care unit (ICU) of a second-level hospital in Mexico. We included 100 patients with critical COVID-19 from January to December 2021, and collected demographic characteristics, comorbidities, APACHE II, SOFA, NEWS2, and CO-RADS scores at admission, incidence of intrahospital complications, length of hospital and ICU stay, and duration of mechanical ventilation, among others. RESULTS: The median survival of deceased patients was 20 days. After multivariable logistic regression, the following variables were significantly associated to mortality: AKI (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 6.64, 95% confidence intervals [CI] = 2.1-20.6, p = 0.001), age > 55 years (AOR 5.3, 95% CI = 1.5-18.1, p = 0.007), and arrhythmias (AOR 5.15, 95% CI = 1.3-19.2, p = 0.015). Median survival was shorter in patients with AKI (15 vs. 22 days, p = 0.043), as well as in patients with overweight/obesity (15 vs. 25 days, p = 0.026). CONCLUSION: Our findings show that the development of AKI was the main risk factor associated with mortality in critical COVID-19 patients, while other factors such as older age and cardiac arrhythmias were also associated with this outcome. The management of patients with COVID-19 should include renal function screening and staging on admission to the Emergency Department.

OBJETIVO: Probar la asociación entre lesión renal aguda y mortalidad en pacientes con COVID-19 grave. MÉTODO: Realizamos un estudio de casos y controles unicéntrico en la unidad de cuidados intensivos (UCI) de un hospital de segundo nivel en México. Incluimos 100 pacientes con COVID-19 grave de enero a diciembre 2021, recolectando características demográficas, comorbilidad, APACHE II, SOFA, NEWS2 y CO-RADS al ingreso, incidencia de complicaciones intrahospitalarias, duración de la estancia hospitalaria y en la UCI, duración de ventilación mecánica, etc. RESULTADOS: La mediana de supervivencia de los pacientes que fallecieron fue de 20 días. Al realizar el análisis de regresión logística multivariable, las siguientes variables se asociaron significativamente con la mortalidad: lesión renal aguda (odds ratio ajustada [ORa]: 6.64; intervalo de confianza del 95% [IC95%]: 2.1-20.6; p = 0.001), edad > 55 años (ORa: 5.3; IC95%: 1.5-18.1; p = 0.007) y arritmias (ORa: 5.15; IC95%: 1.3-19.2; p = 0.015). La supervivencia fue menor en pacientes con lesión renal aguda (15 vs. 22 días; p = 0,043), así como en pacientes con sobrepeso u obesidad (15 vs. 25 días; p = 0.026). CONCLUSIONES: Nuestros resultados muestran que el desarrollo de lesión renal aguda es el principal factor de riesgo asociado a mortalidad en pacientes con COVID-19 grave, mientras que otros factores, como la edad > 55 años y la presencia de arritmias cardiacas, también se asocian a mortalidad por COVID-19. El manejo de pacientes con COVID-19 debe incluir el tamizaje y la estadificación de la función renal al ingreso a urgencias.

Effect of laparoscopic gastric sleeve vs. laparoscopic gastric bypass in Roux-Y on long-term weight loss in obese mexican population.

OBJECTIVE: Compare the weight loss results between long-term procedures up to 5 years, after undergoing MGL and RYGB in Mexican patients with obesity and associated comorbidity. The most common bariatric surgical procedures worldwide are, laparoscopic gastric sleeve (MGL) and laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), as a treatment for weight loss and remission of comorbidity associated with obesity; however, they are the long-term weight loss results in the Mexican population are unknown. METHOD: Retrospective, observational cohort of patients with obesity undergoing MGL or RYGB in a private hospital Medica Sur, in Mexico City, in the period from 2013 to 2021. Instrumental variables analysis and standardized mean differences were used to calculate outcomes up to 5 years at 5 follow-up visits (S1-S5), at 7 days, 2 months, 6 months, 10 months and 2-5 years after surgery, to compare results of the groups. RESULTS: 104 patients were included in two groups: 31 (30.09%) with MG and 73 (70.87%) with RYGB. The last follow-up (S5), the MG group recorded a mean EW 9.61 kg, EW% 12.72% and EWL% 73.50%, and the RYGB group EW 10.1 kg, EW% 14.72% and EWL% 70.41%. CONCLUSIONS: No significant difference was found between groups for long-term EW loss (p = 0.082); however, there is a greater decrease in weight loss in RYGB at 6-12 months compared to MGL.

OBJETIVO: Comparar los resultados de pérdida de peso con los procedimientos MGL y BGYRL a largo plazo (hasta 5 años) en pacientes mexicanos con obesidad y comorbilidad asociada. Son dos los procedimientos quirúrgicos bariátricos más frecuentes en todo el mundo: la manga gástrica lapa-roscópica (MGL) y el bypass gástrico en Y de Roux laparoscópico (BGYRL); ambos como tratamiento para pérdida ponderal y remisión de la comorbilidad asociadas a la obesidad. Sin embargo, se desconocen los resultados de pérdida de peso a largo plazo en la población mexicana. MÉTODO: Cohorte retrospectiva, observacional, de pacientes con obesidad sometidos a MGL o BGYRL en el hospital privado Médica Sur, de Ciudad de México, en el período de 2013 a 2021. Se utilizó el análisis de variables instrumentales y diferencias de medias estandarizadas para calcular los desenlaces hasta 5 años posquirúrgicos en cinco consultas de seguimiento (S1-S5) a los 7 días, 2 meses, 6 meses, 10 meses y 2-5 años posquirúrgicos, para comparar los resultados de los grupos. RESULTADOS: Se incluyeron 104 pacientes en dos grupos: 31 (30.09%) con MG y 73 (70.87%) con BGYR. En el último seguimiento (S5), el grupo de MG registró media de EW 9.61 kg, EW% 12.72% y EWL% 73.50%, y el grupo BGYR tuvo EW 10.1 kg, EW% 14.72% y EWL% 70.41%. CONCLUSIONES: No se encontró diferencia significativa entre grupos para pérdida de EW a largo plazo (p = 0.082); sin embargo, hay una mayor disminución de pérdida ponderal en los pacientes con BGYRL a los 6-12 meses en comparación con los tratados con MGL.