Enforced dimerization between XBP1s and ATF6f enhances the protective effects of the UPR in models of neurodegeneration.

Alteration to endoplasmic reticulum (ER) proteostasis is observed in a variety of neurodegenerative diseases associated with abnormal protein aggregation. Activation of the unfolded protein response (UPR) enables an adaptive reaction to recover ER proteostasis and cell function. The UPR is initiated by specialized stress sensors that engage gene expression programs through the concerted action of the transcription factors ATF4, ATF6f, and XBP1s. Although UPR signaling is generally studied as unique linear signaling branches, correlative evidence suggests that ATF6f and XBP1s may physically interact to regulate a subset of UPR target genes. In this study, we designed an ATF6f/XBP1s fusion protein termed UPRplus that behaves as a heterodimer in terms of its selective transcriptional activity. Cell-based studies demonstrated that UPRplus has a stronger effect in reducing the abnormal aggregation of mutant huntingtin and α-synuclein when compared to XBP1s or ATF6 alone. We developed a gene transfer approach to deliver UPRplus into the brain using adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) and demonstrated potent neuroprotection in vivo in preclinical models of Parkinson's disease and Huntington's disease. These results support the concept in which directing UPR-mediated gene expression toward specific adaptive programs may serve as a possible strategy to optimize the beneficial effects of the pathway in different disease conditions.

Community and school violence as significant risk factors for school climate and bonding of teachers in Chile: A national hierarchical multilevel analysis.

Community and school violence involve aggressive behaviors among youth and adults. Researchers have focused mostly on aggression among students without considering teachers as victims of violence. The study's purpose was to examine the consequences of community violence, school violence, and school climate on the levels of teacher's bonding to the school. We examined data of 5733 teachers from 510 schools in 68 different communities in Chile. We used Hierarchical Linear Modeling to examine the relationship between the individual, school, and community-level variables. We found direct associations with school bonding at the individual level for victim school violence, school climate, size and type of school, and violence in the community at the community level. Our results highlight the importance of school violence prevention from a comprehensive perspective, starting at the community level, followed by the school to provide more teacher's support.

Targeting of the unfolded protein response (UPR) as therapy for Parkinson's disease.

Parkinson's disease is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder, leading to the progressive decline of motor control due to the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta. At the molecular level, Parkinson's disease share common molecular signatures with most neurodegenerative diseases including the accumulation of misfolded proteins in the brain. Alteration in the buffering capacity of the proteostasis network during aging is proposed as one of the triggering steps leading to abnormal protein aggregation in this disease, highlighting disturbances in the function of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). The ER is the main subcellular compartment involved in protein folding and quality control. ER stress triggers a signalling reaction known as the unfolded protein response (UPR), which aims restoring proteostasis through the induction of adaptive programs or the activation of cell death pathways when damage is chronic and cannot be repaired. Here, we overview most evidence linking ER stress to Parkinson's disease. Strategies to alleviate ER stress by targeting specific components of the UPR using small molecules and gene therapy are highlighted.

Masseter muscle atrophy impairs bone quality of the mandibular condyle but not the alveolar process early after induction.

BACKGROUND: Masseter muscle function influences mandibular bone homeostasis. As previously reported, bone resorption markers increased in the mouse mandibular condyle two days after masseter paralysis induced with botulinum toxin type A (BoNTA), followed by local bone loss. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the bone quality of both the mandibular condyle and alveolar process in the mandible of adult mice during the early stage of a BoNTA-induced masseter muscle atrophy, using a combined 3D histomorphometrics and shape analysis approach. METHODS: Adult BALB/c mice were divided into an untreated control group and an experimental group; the latter received one single BoNTA injection in the right masseter (BoNTA-right) and saline in the left masseter (Saline-left). 3D bone microstructural changes in the mandibular condyle and alveolar process were determined with high-resolution microtomography. Additionally, landmark-based geometric morphometrics was implemented to assess external shape changes. RESULTS: After 2 weeks, masseter mass was significantly reduced (P-value <0.001). When compared to Saline-left and untreated condyles, BoNTA-right condyles showed significant bone loss (P-value <0.001) and shape changes. No significant bone loss was observed in the alveolar processes of any of the groups (P-value >0.05). CONCLUSION: Condyle bone quality deteriorates at an early stage of BoNTA-induced masseter muscle atrophy, and before the alveolar process is affected. Since the observed bone microstructural changes resemble those in human temporomandibular joint degenerative disorders, the clinical safety of BoNTA intervention in the masticatory apparatus remains to be clarified.

Relationship between serum concentrations of persistent organic pollutants and markers of insulin resistance in a cohort of women with a history of gestational diabetes mellitus.

The aim of the present study was to assess the relationship between serum concentrations of several persistent organic pollutants and insulin resistance markers in a cohort of women with a history of gestational diabetes mellitus. ∑POPs was computed as the sum of individual serum POP concentrations. No statistically significant associations were found between levels of any POP and fasting glucose. However, polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) congeners 138 and 180 were positively associated with 2-h glucose levels and PCB 180 also with fasting immunoreactive insulin (IRI). We also found a positive association of p,p'- dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (p,p'- DDE), PCBs (138, 153, and 180), hexachlorobenzene, and ∑POPs with 2-h IRI. Serum concentrations of PCBs (138, 153, and 180), hexachlorobenzene, and ∑POPs were also positively associated with homeostasis model assessment (HOMA2-IR) levels. Moreover, p,p'- DDE, PCBs (138, 153 and 180), hexachlorobenzene, and ∑POPs were negatively associated with Insulin Sensitivity Index (ISI-gly) levels. No significant association was found between glycated hemoglobin and the concentrations of any POP. The removal of women under blood glucose lowering treatment from the models strengthened most of the associations previously found for the whole population. Our findings suggest that exposure to certain POPs is a modifiable risk factor contributing to insulin resistance.

The Multifaceted Roles of NRF2 in Cancer: Friend or Foe?

Physiological concentrations of reactive oxygen species (ROS) play vital roles in various normal cellular processes, whereas excessive ROS generation is central to disease pathogenesis. The nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) is a critical transcription factor that regulates the cellular antioxidant systems in response to oxidative stress by governing the expression of genes encoding antioxidant enzymes that shield cells from diverse oxidative alterations. NRF2 and its negative regulator Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (KEAP1) have been the focus of numerous investigations in elucidating whether NRF2 suppresses tumor promotion or conversely exerts pro-oncogenic effects. NRF2 has been found to participate in various pathological processes, including dysregulated cell proliferation, metabolic remodeling, and resistance to apoptosis. Herein, this review article will examine the intriguing role of phase separation in activating the NRF2 transcriptional activity and explore the NRF2 dual impacts on tumor immunology, cancer stem cells, metastasis, and long non-coding RNAs (LncRNAs). Taken together, this review aims to discuss the NRF2 multifaceted roles in both cancer prevention and promotion while also addressing the advantages, disadvantages, and limitations associated with modulating NRF2 therapeutically in cancer treatment.

Trajectories of Parental Daily Stress: An Ecological Momentary Assessment Study during the COVID-19 Lockdown.

The COVID-19 pandemic was a source of significant stress due to health and safety concerns and measures to control the virus' spread, such as mobility restrictions. This measure was especially demanding for parents with school aged children, who had to find new work-family balance as their children participate in online education while attempting to work remotely. To evaluate parents' stress trajectories during the pandemic, we conducted Ecological Momentary Assessments (EMAs) during lockdown for 29 days in 68 families in Santiago, Chile. In addition, we evaluated the role of educational level and income, co-parenting, and number of children in parents' stress trajectories. Our results showed that during the first weeks of lockdown expected protective factors (i.e., income and co-parental support) were not able to influence parents' daily stress management. Moreover, parents with higher educational levels reported worse stress adaptation than less educated parents. On the other hand, co-parental conflict was significantly associated with parent's stress. Our study captured an acute response to COVID-19 related challenges. This study contributes to understanding how parents adjust to stress during adverse circumstances such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

The role of family support and conflict in cyberbullying and subjective well-being among Chilean adolescents during the Covid-19 period.

Introduction: Life satisfaction plays a crucial role in integral development and mental health during childhood and adolescence. Recently, it has been shown that cyberbullying has severe consequences for the mental health and wellbeing of victims such as increased anxiety, depressive symptoms and even suicide risk. Although the role of the family in life satisfaction and cyberbullying behaviors has been studied, there is limited information on its impacts during the current pandemic period. Objective: The aim of this study is to determine the role of family variables regarding students' levels of life satisfaction and cyberbullying victimization during the pandemic period. Method: Structural equation modeling was done using data from a cross-sectional study (n = 287; age ranged 14-18) conducted in six schools in Santiago, Chile during 2020. Results: The tested model has a good fit and parsimonious adjustment. It explained 25.9% of the life satisfaction and 9% of the variance of cyberbullying victimization. Family support was positively associated with life satisfaction (p < 0.001) and negatively associated with cyberbullying victimization (p < 0.05). Likewise, family conflict was positively associated with levels of cyberbullying victimization (p < 0.05) and negatively associated with life satisfaction levels (p < 0.001). Finally, family visits were only positively associated with life satisfaction (p < 0.01). Conclusions: Generating interventions on several levels focused on positive family bonds has become essential and urgent. This is especially important considering their protective impacts on cyberbullying victimization in promotion of adolescent well-being and quality of life.

[Streptococcus gallolyticus subsp. pasteurianus: a common infection caused by an unusual agent]. / Streptococcus gallolyticus subsp. pasteurianus: un agente inusual ocasionando una infección común.

Introducción: Streptococcus gallolyticus subsp. pasteurianus es un coco grampositivo, catalasa negativo, perteneciente al grupo D de Lancefield, que se encuentra relacionado con cuadros de sepsis neonatal, específicamente con meningitis. Caso clínico: Se reporta el caso de un paciente de 2 meses con un cuadro de meningitis por S. gallolyticus subsp. pasteurianus. Se describen la sintomatología y el abordaje diagnóstico y terapéutico. Asimismo, se realiza una revisión de la literatura que evidencia el subdiagnóstico de este agente como causa de meningitis en pediatría. Conclusiones: Este caso representa el primer aislamiento de este agente en el Hospital Nacional de Niños de Costa Rica, de la Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social.

Use of Meropenem in a Tertiary Pediatric Hospital in Costa Rica and Its Role in the Era of Antimicrobial Stewardship.

Background Understanding antibiotic profiles and their resistance patterns can improve hospital quality care and optimize clinical outcomes. This paper characterizes the use of meropenem in the National Children's Hospital of Caja Costarricense del Seguro Social (CCSS) in Costa Rica, and its role in antibiotic stewardship. Methods This is a retrospective observational study from hospitalized patients under 13 years of age that received meropenem as part of their treatment. Patients were identified through medical and pharmacy records. Data was summarized using frequencies and percentages for categorical variables, means and standard deviations for normally distributed continuous variables, and medians with interquartile ranges (IQR) for non-normally distributed continuous variables. Results A total of 181 of the 309 selected patients met inclusion criteria. Median age was 21 months (IQR: 4.0-79.0). Mean length of stay was 31 days (16.0-58.0). The most frequent diagnosis was septic shock (29%). 87% of patients received at least one antibiotic prior to receiving meropenem; 71% of patients received a second antibiotic simultaneously with meropenem. In 113 (62%) cases, meropenem was prescribed as empirical therapy. The most frequent isolate was extended-spectrum ß-lactamase Escherichia coli (24%). 74% of patients who received meropenem as targeted therapy had a favorable outcome. Conclusions Meropenem can be used as monotherapy for complicated, multi-drug resistant, gram negative, bacterial infections, due to its susceptibility profile, convenient dosing schedule, and minimum adverse effects. However, it should be restricted to cases where no other drug is available in order to safeguard its value.

Streptococcus gallolyticus subsp. pasteurianus: un agente inusual ocasionando una infección común / Streptococcus gallolyticus subsp. pasteurianus: a common infection caused by an unusual agent

Resumen Introducción: Streptococcus gallolyticus subsp. pasteurianus es un coco grampositivo, catalasa negativo, perteneciente al grupo D de Lancefield, que se encuentra relacionado con cuadros de sepsis neonatal, específicamente con meningitis. Caso clínico: Se reporta el caso de un paciente de 2 meses con un cuadro de meningitis por S. gallolyticus subsp. pasteurianus. Se describen la sintomatología y el abordaje diagnóstico y terapéutico. Asimismo, se realiza una revisión de la literatura que evidencia el subdiagnóstico de este agente como causa de meningitis en pediatría. Conclusiones: Este caso representa el primer aislamiento de este agente en el Hospital Nacional de Niños de Costa Rica, de la Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social.

Abstract Background: Streptococcus gallolyticus subsp. pasteurianus is a positive Gram stain, catalase negative coccus that belongs to the Lancefield group D. It is associated with clinical manifestations such as neonatal sepsis and meningitis. Case report: The case of a 2-month-old male patient with meningitis caused by S. gallolyticus subsp. pasteurianus is described. Moreover, the symptoms, diagnosis, and management of the patient are discussed. Also, a review of the literature was conducted showing the sub-diagnosis of this agent as a cause of meningitis in pediatrics. Conclusions: This case represents the first detection of this agent in the National Children's Hospital of Costa Rica, which is part of the Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social.

Modulatory Effect of 2-(4-Hydroxyphenyl)amino-1,4-naphthoquinone on Endothelial Vasodilation in Rat Aorta.

The vascular endothelium plays an essential role in the control of the blood flow. Pharmacological agents like quinone (menadione) at various doses modulate this process in a variety of ways. In this study, Q7, a 2-phenylamino-1,4-naphthoquinone derivative, significantly increased oxidative stress and induced vascular dysfunction at concentrations that were not cytotoxic to endothelial or vascular smooth muscle cells. Q7 reduced nitric oxide (NO) levels and endothelial vasodilation to acetylcholine in rat aorta. It also blunted the calcium release from intracellular stores by increasing the phenylephrine-induced vasoconstriction when CaCl2 was added to a calcium-free medium but did not affect the influx of calcium from extracellular space. Q7 increased the vasoconstriction to BaCl2 (10-3 M), an inward rectifying K+ channels blocker, and blocked the vasodilation to KCl (10-2 M) in aortic rings precontracted with BaCl2. This was recovered with sodium nitroprusside (10-8 M), a NO donor. In conclusion, Q7 induced vasoconstriction was through a modulation of cellular mechanisms involving calcium fluxes through K+ channels, and oxidative stress induced endothelium damage. These findings contribute to the characterization of new quinone derivatives with low cytotoxicity able to pharmacologically modulate vasodilation.

Removable partial dentures: eliminating retainers in the anterior zone / Prótesis parcial removible: eliminación de retenedores en la zona anterior

Abstract Introduction: one of the main factors for discomfort in users of removable partial prosthesis is the presence of visible retainers in the anterior zone. In Kennedy Class III arches, that is, exclusively dental loading pathways (in which the functional forces reach their final receptor: the alveolar bone), anterior zone retainers may be eliminated by selecting an appropriate prosthetic insertion and removal axis, and mainly by carving guiding planes that should provide retention by mechanical rubbing. This in vitro experimental study aimed to prove the hypothesis that it is possible to obtain functional retention in a dental-loading pathway removable partial prosthesis without using retainers in the anterior zone. Methods: 7 maxillary models with different types of toothless process were used. As a common characteristic, they all were classified as Kennedy Class III with partial denture arches. A Cr-Co metallic base was built for each model according to their clinical situation. Their design allowed them to be exposed to traction in a universal traction machine (Tinius Olsen H5K-S). Results: the proposed hypothesis was confirmed as expected. The traction force needed to displace the metallic bases with retainers in the anterior zone was 16.93 Newton in average. On the other hand, the metallic bases without retainers in the anterior zone showed an average of 12.84 N. The average values obtained for both groups are higher than those reported in the literature (4.903 N). Conclusions: in Class III removable partial dentures it is possible to use metallic bases with no retainers in the anterior zone.

Resumen Introducción: un factor que incomoda a los usuarios de prótesis parciales removibles es la presencia de retenedores visibles en la zona anterior. En clases III de Kennedy, es decir, vías de carga exclusivamente dentarias, sería posible eliminar los retenedores del sector anterior mediante un adecuado tallado de planos guías que brinde retención por roce mecánico y la elección de un eje de inserción y remoción protésico. Este trabajo es un diseño experimental in vitro que tiene por finalidad validar la hipótesis propuesta por nuestro equipo de investigación, que es posible obtener retención funcional en una prótesis parcial removible de vía de carga dentaria sin utilizar retenedores en el sector anterior. Métodos: se utilizaron 7 modelos maxilares en yeso tipo IV, con distinto tipo de desdentamiento, cuya característica común era que correspondían a clases III de Kennedy de arcos parcialmente desdentados. A cada modelo se le confeccionó una base metálica de Cr-Co, de acuerdo con sus características clínicas individuales, las cuales presentaron un diseño que permitió utilizarlas en una máquina de tracción universal para someterlas a fuerzas de tracción. Resultados: la fuerza de tracción necesaria para desalojar las bases metálicas que contaban con retenedores en el sector anterior fue del orden de 16,93 N en promedio. En cambio, las bases metálicas sin retenedores en el sector anterior presentaron un valor promedio para su desalojo de 12,84 N. Conclusiones: los valores promedio obtenidos para ambos grupos son superiores a los que se señala en la literatura (4,903 N) como válidos para una retención adecuadamente funcional para una prótesis parcial removible.

[Adaptation and validation of the Spanish version of Child Perception Questionnaire CPQ-Spn11-14 in a Chilean community population]. / Adaptación y validación al español del cuestionario de percepción infantil CPQ-Esp11-14 en población comunitaria chilena.

BACKGROUND: In order to validly measure the oral health related quality of life in school age children it is necessary to adapt and validate the CPQ 11-14 for Spanish language. To confirm the four domains of CPQ-Esp 11-14 for the full and abbreviated version of 16 and 8 items. METHODS: The instrument was translated into Spanish and culturally adapted. It was administered to 288 12 year-old children attending public schools. Dental caries experience was measure with the DMFT index. The conceptual structure of the scales was assessed by the AFC. It was also evaluated: internal consistency with Cronbach 's alpha, test- retest temporal stability with intraclass correlation coeficient, and concurrent validity with correlation of score CPQ-Esp 11-14 with caries experience. RESULTS: The five measures used to confirm the structure of the factors on the version of 37 items showed values outside the range of the model fit. Version 16 and 8 items obtained indicators within values indicating the model fit. The internal consistency of full scale and versions 16 and 8 items were measured with Cronbach Alpha wich was higher than 0.6. All versions had intraclass correlation coefficient above 0.81, except for functional limitations of the subscale version a of 16 items. The Rho Spearman correlation was significant between CAOD and the score the questionnaire, except for oral symptoms and full version b version of 16 items. CONCLUSIONS: The hypothetical factor structure was confirmed by the CFA for 16 and 8 items versions. The information contained in abbreviated items allows measuring oral health related quality of life in Chilean children.

Electron-transfer processes induced by the triplet state of pterins in aqueous solutions.

Pterins (Pt) are heterocyclic compounds widespread in living systems. They participate in relevant biological processes, such as metabolic redox reactions, and can photoinduce the oxidation of biomolecules through electron-transfer mechanisms. We have investigated the electron-transfer pathways initiated by excited states of pterin (Ptr) and 6-methylpterin (Mep), selected as model compounds. The experiments were carried out in aqueous solutions under continuous UV-A irradiation, in the presence and in the absence of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), used as an electron donor. The reactions were followed by UV/Vis spectrophotometry, HPLC, and an enzymatic method for H(2)O(2) determination. The formation of the superoxide anion (O(2)(*-)) was investigated by electron paramagnetic resonance-spin trapping. The triplet excited states of Ptr and Mep are efficient electron acceptors, able to oxidize a Pt molecule in its ground state. The resulting radical anion (Pt(*-)) reacts with dissolved O(2) to yield O(2)(*-), regenerating the pterin. In the presence of EDTA, this reaction competes efficiently with the anaerobic reaction between Pt(*-) and EDTA(*+), yielding the corresponding stable dihydroderivatives H(2)Pt. The effects of EDTA and dissolved O(2) concentrations on the efficiencies of the different competing pathways were analyzed.

Lingual-facial trunk arising from the external carotid artery: a case report / Tronco linguo-facial como rama de la arteria carótida externa: reporte de un caso

The variations in the origin of the facial and lingual arteries are very important in maxillofacial, head and neck surgery procedures. This study is a case report in which the common origin is described in the facial and lingual artery in a lingual-facial trunk (LFT) on the left side of a female corpse from Spain. In the examination, a diameter of 2.17 mm and a length of 8.84 mm are shown. It was located 12.04 mm from the carotid bifurcation and 9.31 mm from the origin of the superior thyroid artery. The variation in biometric values shown, are anatomical findings in the neck dissection of a corpse. Moreover, taking into account the surgical procedures, which involve the origin of facial and lingual artery, because it is the most common variation and could cause complications.

Las variaciones del origen de la arteria facial y lingual son importantes en los procedimientos de cirugía maxilofacial y de cabeza y cuello. Reportamos un caso en el que se describe el origen común de las arterias facial y lingual en un tronco linguofacial en el lado izquierdo en el cadáver de una mujer de origen español. En la examinación, el tronco presentó un diámetro de 2,17 mm y una longitud de 8,84 mm. Se ubicó a 12,04 mm de la bifurcación carotidea y a 9,31 mm del origen de la arteria tiroidea superior. La variación en los valores biométricos presentados constituyen un hallazgo anatómico en una disección de cuello de un cadáver, además ser tomada en cuenta en los procedimientos quirúrgicos que involucren el origen de la arteria facial y lingual, pues al ser la variación más común podría generar complicaciones.

Neuropilin 2/semaphorin 3F signaling is essential for cranial neural crest migration and trigeminal ganglion condensation.

In the head of vertebrate embryos, neural crest cells migrate from the neural tube into the presumptive facial region and condense to form cranial ganglia and skeletal elements in the branchial arches. We show that newly formed neural folds and migrating neural crest cells express the neuropilin 2 (npn2) receptor in a manner that is highly conserved in amniotes. The repulsive npn2 ligand semaphorin (sema) 3F is expressed in a complementary pattern in the mouse. Furthermore, mice carrying null mutations for either npn2 or sema3F have abnormal cranial neural crest migration. Most notably, "bridges" of migrating cells are observed crossing between neural crest streams entering branchial arches 1 and 2. In addition, trigeminal ganglia fail to form correctly in the mutants and are improperly condensed and loosely organized. These data show that npn2/sema3F signaling is required for proper cranial neural crest development in the head.

Guidance of trunk neural crest migration requires neuropilin 2/semaphorin 3F signaling.

In vertebrate embryos, neural crest cells migrate only through the anterior half of each somite while avoiding the posterior half. We demonstrate that neural crest cells express the receptor neuropilin 2 (Npn2), while its repulsive ligand semaphorin 3F (Sema3f) is restricted to the posterior-half somite. In Npn2 and Sema3f mutant mice, neural crest cells lose their segmental migration pattern and instead migrate as a uniform sheet, although somite polarity itself remains unchanged. Furthermore, Npn2 is cell autonomously required for neural crest cells to avoid Sema3f in vitro. These data show that Npn2/Sema3f signaling guides neural crest migration through the somite. Interestingly, neural crest cells still condense into segmentally arranged dorsal root ganglia in Npn2 nulls, suggesting that segmental neural crest migration and segmentation of the peripheral nervous system are separable processes.

Toma de decisiones sexuales y reproductivas en la adolescencia / Adolescent decision-making about sexual and reproductive issues

A partir de las narraciones que se obtuvieron a través de entrevistas en profundidad con 48 mujeres adolescentes y 24 hombres en Bogotá y Cali, se identificaron las cogniciones -conocimientos, normas, creencias, actitudes, valoraciones, expectativas, metas y significados construidas en el contexto sociocultural, que guían las decisiones de los y las jóvenes acerca de establecer relaciones románticas, tener relaciones sexuales, usar métodos de planificación familiar, unirse o casarse, embarazarse o abortar. Además, se establecieron los estilos de toma de decisiones de las adolescentes y sus parejas. Los resultados permitieron derivar recomendaciones para el desarrollo de programas de educación sexual que incluyan a los distintos agentes de socialización.

The aim of this study was to describe youth sexual and reproductive decision making styles, as well as cognitions associated to them. Testimonies were obtained through in depth interviews carried out with a sample of 72 adolescents from Bogotá and Cali , 48 women and 24 men. The authors analyze the way cognitions - knowledge, social norms, beliefs, attitudes, values, expectancies, goals and meanings- constructed in the socio-cultural context, guide youth decision making towards establishing romantic relationships, having sexual intercourse, using contraceptive methods, getting married, getting pregnant or having an abortion. The findings of the study led to recommendations for the design of sexual education programs that include the different socialization agents.