Exploring the Structurally Conserved Regions and Functional Significance in Bacterial N-Terminal Nucleophile (Ntn) Amide-Hydrolases.

The initial adoption of penicillin as an antibiotic marked the start of exploring other compounds essential for pharmaceuticals, yet resistance to penicillins and their side effects has compromised their efficacy. The N-terminal nucleophile (Ntn) amide-hydrolases S45 family plays a key role in catalyzing amide bond hydrolysis in various compounds, including antibiotics like penicillin and cephalosporin. This study comprehensively analyzes the structural and functional traits of the bacterial N-terminal nucleophile (Ntn) amide-hydrolases S45 family, covering penicillin G acylases, cephalosporin acylases, and D-succinylase. Utilizing structural bioinformatics tools and sequence analysis, the investigation delineates structurally conserved regions (SCRs) and substrate binding site variations among these enzymes. Notably, sixteen SCRs crucial for substrate interaction are identified solely through sequence analysis, emphasizing the significance of sequence data in characterizing functionally relevant regions. These findings introduce a novel approach for identifying targets to enhance the biocatalytic properties of N-terminal nucleophile (Ntn) amide-hydrolases, while facilitating the development of more accurate three-dimensional models, particularly for enzymes lacking structural data. Overall, this research advances our understanding of structure-function relationships in bacterial N-terminal nucleophile (Ntn) amide-hydrolases, providing insights into strategies for optimizing their enzymatic capabilities.

Job burnout, cognitive functioning, and Brain-derived neurotrophic factor expression among hospital Mexican nurses.

AIM: To analyze the relationship between burnout syndrome, cognitive functions, and sBDNF (Serum Brain-derived Neurotrophic Factor) in Mexican nurses. METHOD: A descriptive cross-sectional design was used. This study target staff nurses working in hospitals in Guanajuato, México. Demographic and working condition data were collected via questionnaire. The Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) was used to evaluate burnout. A blood sample were collected and processed by ELISA technique to measure sBDNF. Finally, the General Cognitive Assessment (CAB) of the Cognifit© neuropsychological battery was used to evaluated cognitive functions. RESULTS: Findings showed that there are sociodemographic characteristics and working conditions associated with burnout syndrome among nurses. Furthermore, the data demonstrated a significant decrease in sBDNF levels in burnout nurses and a negative correlation between BDNF levels and burnout syndrome. Additionally, these burnout nurse also revealed significant cognitive impairment in reasoning, memory, and attention as well as total scores of CAB. Interestingly, we found a positive correlation between sBDNF levels and the cognitive deficits in burnout nurse. CONCLUSION: Reduced BDNF levels could be a biological indicator or part of the pathological process of burnout, which could affect cognitive abilities. Reduced cognitive function in nurses has relevant implications and emphasizes the need for specialized preventive strategies because nurses make clinical decisions concerning their patients, whose situations are constantly changing.

MiR-21 Regulates Growth and Migration of Cervical Cancer Cells by RECK Signaling Pathway.

Expression of miR-21 has been found to be altered in almost all types of cancers, and it has been classified as an oncogenic microRNA. In addition, the expression of tumor suppressor gene RECK is associated with miR-21 overexpression in high-grade cervical lesions. In the present study, we analyze the role of miR-21 in RECK gene regulation in cervical cancer cells. To identify the downstream cellular target genes of upstream miR-21, we silenced endogenous miR-21 expression using siRNAs. We analyzed the expression of miR-21 and RECK, as well as functional effects on cell proliferation and migration. We found that in cervical cancer cells, there was an inverse correlation between miR-21 expression and RECK mRNA and protein expression. SiRNAs to miR-21 increased luciferase reporter activity in construct plasmids containing the RECK-3'-UTR microRNA response elements MRE21-1, MRE21-2, and MRE21-3. The role of miR-21 in cell proliferation was also analyzed, and cancer cells transfected with siRNAs exhibited a markedly reduced cell proliferation and migration. Our findings indicate that miR-21 post-transcriptionally down-regulates the expression of RECK to promote cell proliferation and cell migration inhibition in cervical cancer cell survival. Therefore, miR-21 and RECK may be potential therapeutic targets in gene therapy for cervical cancer.

Induction of Monoterpenoid Oxindole Alkaloids Production and Related Biosynthetic Gene Expression in Response to Signaling Molecules in Hamelia patens Plant Cultures.

Hamelia patens (Rubiaceae), known as firebush, is a source of bioactive monoterpenoid oxindole alkaloids (MOAs) derived from monoterpenoid indole alkaloids (MIAs). With the aim of understanding the regulation of the biosynthesis of these specialized metabolites, micropropagated plants were elicited with jasmonic acid (JA) and salicylic acid (SA). The MOA production and MIA biosynthetic-related gene expression were evaluated over time. The production of MOAs was increased compared to the control up to 2-fold (41.3 mg g DW-1) at 72 h in JA-elicited plants and 2.5-fold (42.4 mg g DW-1) at 120 h in plants elicited with SA. The increment concurs with the increase in the expression levels of the genes HpaLAMT, HpaTDC, HpaSTR, HpaNPF2.9, HpaTHAS1, and HpaTHAS2. Interestingly, it was found that HpaSGD was downregulated in both treatments after 24 h but in the SA treatment at 120 h only was upregulated to 8-fold compared to the control. In this work, we present the results of MOA production in H. patens and discuss how JA and SA might be regulating the central biosynthetic steps that involve HpaSGD and HpaTHAS genes.

Sociodemographic factors associated with knowledge and attitudes of Peruvian dental interns about dental shade selection.

BACKGROUND: The dentist should have a thorough knowledge of the science, protocols and procedures for dental shade selection in order to mimic dental tissue with restorative materials, respecting the individual needs and attitudes of each patient and providing them with a pleasant and esthetically acceptable appearance. The present study evaluated the knowledge and attitudes of dental interns from two Peruvian universities about dental shade selection and its relationship with sociodemographic factors. METHODS: The present cross-sectional and analytical study was carried out on Peruvian dental interns from the Universidad Nacional Federico Villarreal and the Universidad Privada de San Juan Bautista during May to June 2022. Two validated questionnaires on knowledge and attitudes about dental shade selection were used. A Poisson regression model with robust variance using the adjusted prevalence ratio (APR) was used to assess the influence of the variables: age group, sex, place of origin and type of university, considering a significance level of p<0.05. RESULTS: The results showed that 40.8% (95% CI: 34.0% - 47.6%) of the interns presented unfavorable attitudes while 90.1% (95% CI: 86.0% - 94.2%) presented insufficient knowledge. It was also found that dental interns under 29 years of age were 32% less likely to have unfavorable attitudes (APR = 0.68, 95% CI 0.48 - 0.96) and 11% more likely to have insufficient knowledge (APR = 1.11, 95% CI 1.01 - 1.24) about tooth shade selection compared to dental interns aged 29 years and older. Finally, women were 55% more likely to have unfavorable attitudes about tooth shade selection compared to men (APR = 1.55; 95% CI: 1.08 - 2.22). CONCLUSION: The majority of dental interns presented insufficient knowledge and less than half had unfavorable attitudes about dental shade selection. In addition, being a student under 29 years of age was a risk factor for presenting insufficient knowledge and at the same time constituted a protective factor for presenting unfavorable attitudes. Likewise, being a female student was a risk factor for presenting unfavorable attitudes about dental shade selection.

Metabolic Responses of the Microalga Neochloris oleoabundans to Extracellular Self- and Nonself-DNA.

Stressed organisms identify intracellular molecules released from damaged cells due to trauma or pathogen infection as components of the innate immune response. These molecules called DAMPs (Damage-Associated Molecular Patterns) are extracellular ATP, sugars, and extracellular DNA, among others. Animals and plants can recognize their own DNA applied externally (self-exDNA) as a DAMP with a high degree of specificity. However, little is known about the microalgae responses to damage when exposed to DAMPs and specifically to self-exDNAs. Here we compared the response of the oilseed microalgae Neochloris oleoabundans to self-exDNA, with the stress responses elicited by nonself-exDNA, methyl jasmonate (MeJA) and sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3). We analyzed the peroxidase enzyme activity related to the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), as well as the production of polyphenols, lipids, triacylglycerols, and phytohormones. After 5 min of addition, self-exDNA induced peroxidase enzyme activity higher than the other elicitors. Polyphenols and lipids were increased by self-exDNA at 48 and 24 h, respectively. Triacylglycerols were increased with all elicitors from addition and up to 48 h, except with nonself-exDNA. Regarding phytohormones, self-exDNA and MeJA increased gibberellic acid, isopentenyladenine, and benzylaminopurine at 24 h. Results show that Neochloris oleoabundans have self-exDNA specific responses.

Microleakage in indirect onlay restorations cemented with three different types of adhesives: An in vitro study.

Background: To evaluate the in vitro degree of marginal microleakage in indirect Class II onlay restorations cemented with dual self-adhesive, universal adhesive and dual adhesive. Material and Methods: In the present in vitro experimental study, a total of 54 human premolar teeth were prepared and divided into three equal groups (n = 18) for placement of onlay-type restorations cemented with A: Allcem™ dual-cure adhesive cement), B: RelyX™U200 dual-cure self-adhesive cement and C: RelyX™ Ultimate universal adhesive cement. All restorations were subjected to 10,000 thermocycles between 5°C and 55°C and immersed in a 1M silver nitrate solution for 6 hours. The crowns were then sectioned mesiodistally and observed under a stereo microscope to determine the degree of marginal microleakage in the cervical area. Results: The onlay restorations cemented with RelyX Ultimate did not present microleakage in the majority of cases (77.8%). Restorations cemented with RelyX U200 showed predominantly microleakage up to the pulp floor in 83.3% of the total, being this significantly higher microleakage than in restorations cemented with RelyX Ultimate and Allcem Dual (p<0.001 and p<0.001 respectively). There was no significant difference in microleakage between the last two mentioned cements (p=0.255). Conclusions: Allcem dual adhesive cement and RelyX Ultimate universal adhesive showed significantly less microleakage than RelyX U200 dual-curing self-adhesive cement at the cervical level, with predominantly no microleakage and microleakage down to the enamel, respectively. The use of RelyX Ultimate cement in indirect restorations is recommended as it showed better marginal adaptation. Key words:Microleakage, human teeth, adhesion, adhesive cement, thermal cycling, onlay restoration.

Reverse transcription loop­mediated isothermal amplification has a high performance in the detection of SARS­CoV­2 in saliva samples and nasal swabs from asymptomatic and symptomatic individuals.

The detection of coronavirus disease 2019 cases represents a significant challenge at the epidemiological level. Limitations exist in effectively detecting asymptomatic cases, achieving good follow-up in hospitals without the infrastructure for reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) or in difficult-to-access areas and developing methods with the need for less invasive sampling procedures. Therefore, the present study evaluated the performance of the direct reverse transcription loop-mediated isothermal amplification (RT-LAMP) test for detecting severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in the saliva and nasal samples of asymptomatic individuals belonging to the university population. In addition, this test was also assessed for effectiveness in symptomatic individuals referred from a hospital with poor infrastructure in molecular biology and located outside the urban area. The RT-LAMP assay was compared with the results obtained from the RT-qPCR nasopharyngeal swab test, where the diagnosis was confirmed by lateral flow immunoassay test for rapid antigen detection. A total of 128 samples were analyzed, of which 43% were symptomatic positive individuals, 25% were asymptomatic positive individuals and 32% were SARS-CoV2-negative control individuals. Among positive individuals, no differences were found between the Cq values determined by RT-qPCR. A sensitivity of 96.5% and a specificity of 97.6% was reported for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 in symptomatic individuals by salivary and nasal RT-LAMP, as well as a sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 97.6% for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 in asymptomatic individuals. These findings indicated that performance of the direct RT-LAMP test using saliva and nasal samples has high sensitivity and specificity, which in turn suggest that it is a viable and reliable alternative for use in epidemiological monitoring.

Mixed elicitation with salicylic acid and hydrogen peroxide modulates the phenolic and iridoid pathways in Castilleja tenuiflora plants.

MAIN CONCLUSION: SA and H2O2, in single and mixed elicitation stimulate specialized metabolism and activate oxidative stress in C. tenuiflora plants. Single elicitation with salicylic acid (SA at 75 µM) and, hydrogen peroxide (at 150 µM), and mixed elicitation (75 µM SA + 150 µM H2O2) were evaluated on specialized metabolism in Castilleja tenuiflora Benth. plants. Total phenolic content (TPC), phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL) activity, antioxidant enzymes and specialized metabolite profiles, as well as the expression levels of eight genes involved in phenolic (Cte-TyrDC, Cte-GOT2, Cte-ADD, Cte-AO3, Cte-PAL1, Cte-CHS1) and terpene pathways (Cte-DXS1 and Cte-G10H) and their correlation with major metabolite (verbascoside and aucubin) concentrations were investigated. TPC content (three-fold) and PAL activity (11.5-fold) increased with mixed elicitation, as well as catalase and peroxidase activity (11.3-fold and 10.8-fold, respectively), compared to single elicitation. Phenylethanoid accumulation was greatest under mixed elicitation, followed by SA and H2O2. Lignan accumulation was differential, depending on the plant part and the elicitor. Flavonoids only appeared after mixed elicitation. The high concentration of verbascoside under mixed elicitation was related to a high gene expression. Single elicitation induced iridoid accumulation in specific parts (H2O2 in aerial parts and SA in roots), whereas under mixed elicitation, it accumulated in both parts. A high concentration of aucubin in the aerial part was related to a high expression level of genes of the terpene pathway Cte-DXS1 and Cte-G10H, and in the root with Cte-G10H, while Cte-DXS1 was downregulated in this tissue in all treatments. Mixed elicitation with SA and H2O2 represents an interesting tool to increase the production of specialized metabolites in plants.

Alteraciones del metabolismo glucídico y factores de riesgo aterogénico en familiares de primera línea de pacientes diabéticos

Fundamento la diabetes mellitus es una de las enfermedades con mayor morbilidad y mortalidad entre las afecciones crónicas no trasmisibles y su prevalencia en individuos con antecedentes familiares de primer grado es elevada. Objetivo: describir las alteraciones del metabolismo glucídico y los factores de riesgo aterogénicos presentes en familiares de primera línea de pacientes diabéticos de un consultorio médico Método: se realizó un estudio descriptivo de corte transversal entre los meses de enero de 2020 a enero de 2022, que incluyó a los familiares de primera línea de los pacientes diabéticos tipo 2, dispensarizados en el consultorio No. 10 perteneciente al Policlínico Universitario Héroes del Moncada del municipio Plaza de la Revolución. Se estudiaron 122 pacientes mayores de 19 años. Se analizaron como variables: edad, sexo y color de la piel, factores de riesgo aterogénico y las alteraciones del metabolismo de los hidratos de carbono. Resultados: predominaron los pacientes del sexo femenino y el grupo de edad 19 y 39 años. El factor de riesgo más frecuente fue la dislipemia, presente en el 43,4 % seguido de la hipertensión arterial y del sobrepeso/obesidad. Las alteraciones del metabolismo glucídico se presentaron en 74,6 % de los pacientes, con predominio de la glucemia en ayunas alterada en el 30,3 % y en 11,5 % se diagnósticó diabetes mellitus. Conclusiones: las alteraciones del metabolismo glucídico y los factores de riesgo aterogénicos detectadas ponen de manifiesto la asociación entre factores genéticos y ambientales en el desarrollo de la enfermedad y la importancia de trazar estrategias de prevención desde edades tempranas de la vida.

Foundation: diabetes mellitus is one of the diseases with the highest morbidity and mortality among non-communicable chronic conditions and its prevalence in individuals with a first-degree family history is high. Objective: to describe the alterations in glucose metabolism and the atherogenic risk factors present in diabetic patients' first-degree relatives of a medical office. Method: a descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out between January 2020 and January 2022, which included first-degree relatives of type 2 diabetic patients, dispensed at medical office No. 10 belonging to the Héroes del Moncada University Policlinic from the Plaza de la Revolución municipality, 122 patients older than 19 years old were studied. The following variables were analyzed: age, sex, and skin color, atherogenic risk factors, and changes in carbohydrate metabolism. Results: female patients and the age group 19 and 39 years old predominated. The most frequent risk factor was dyslipidemia, present in 43,4 % followed by arterial hypertension and overweight/obesity. Alterations in glucose metabolism occurred in 74,6 % of the patients, with a predominance of altered fasting glycemia in 30,3 % and 11,5 % diagnosed with diabetes mellitus. Conclusions: the alterations in glucose metabolism and the atherogenic risk factors detected reveal the association between genetic and environmental factors in the development of the disease and the importance of developing prevention strategies from an early age of life.

Nivel de conocimiento sobre nutrición y su asociación con las prácticas alimentarias y la obesidad entre estudiantes universitarios

Introducción: La literatura sobre el impacto de la educación alimentaria y nutricional de estudiantes universitarios en las prácticas alimentarias es heterogénea. Estudios han informado de que la educación alimentaria y nutricional puede cambiar los hábitos alimentarios y las elecciones alimentarias mientras que otros no encontraron asociación. Objetivo: Determinar la relación entre el conocimiento nutricional, las prácticas alimentarias y la obesidad en estudiantes universitarios nicaragüenses. Métodos: Estudio de corte transversal analítico que utilizó una muestra de 914 estudiantes universitarios de la ciudad de León en Nicaragua. Se midió el índice de masa corporal a través del peso y la estatura y el nivel de conocimiento nutricional. Las prácticas alimentarias fueron medidas con cuestionarios validados con moderadas modificaciones en base al contexto del país. Los datos fueron analizados mediante ANOVA de una vía, chi-cuadrado, prueba t de Student y regresión lineal. Resultados: Se encontró un bajo nivel de conocimiento nutricional y alta prevalencia de exceso de peso. El conocimiento nutricional de los estudiantes universitarios está asociado positivamente con las prácticas alimentarias. Sin embargo, aunque se tenga un máximo de conocimiento no significa un puntaje máximo de diversidad alimentaria. Asimismo, se reportó que las mujeres tienen una diversidad alimentaria ligeramente mayor a los hombres, pero mayor es la diversidad en el grupo que realizan actividad física y aquellos que tienen bajo peso. Por su parte, el conocimiento nutricional está asociado negativamente con el sobrepeso y la obesidad. Conclusión: se comprueba la hipótesis del impacto positivo del conocimiento nutricional en las prácticas alimentarias y la obesidad.

Background: The literature on the impact of food and nutrition education of university students on eating practices is heterogeneous. Studies have revealed that food and nutrition education can change eating habits and choices while others found no association. Objective: Determine the relationship between nutrition knowledge, eating practices, and obesity in Nicaraguan university students. Methods: Analytical cross-sectional study using a sample of 914 university students from the city of León in Nicaragua. The Body Mass Index (BMI) was calculated considering both values of weight and height, and the level of nutrition knowledge and eating practices were measured with validated questionnaires with moderate modifications based on the country context. The data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA, Chi-Square, Student's T-test, and linear regression. Results: A low level of nutrition knowledge and a high prevalence of overweight were found. The nutrition knowledge of university students is positively associated with eating practices. However, even if there is a high degree of nutrition knowledge, it does not mean there is a high dietary diversity score (DDS). Similarly, it was revealed that women have slightly greater dietary diversity scores than men, but greater dietary diversity scores in the group that performs physical activity and those who are underweight. On the other hand, nutrition knowledge is negatively associated with overweight and obesity. Conclusion: the hypothesis of the positive impact of nutrition knowledge on eating practices and obesity is tested.

Detección de ansiedad y depresión en el binomio receptor-donador durante el protocolo de trasplante renal / Anxiety and depression in the recipient-donor binomial during the kidney transplant protocol

ABSTRACT Introduction: Detection of anxiety and depression in the recipient-donor pair (BinRD) during the kidney transplant protocol (KT) is important to establish psychoeducational interventions that help achieve success during and after KT. Objective: To determine the presence of anxiety and depression symptoms in the BinRD during the RT protocol and to identify characteristics and associated factors. Methods: Cross-sectional study, including 174 binomials being evaluated for TR. The Beck Depression Scale (BDI-II) and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) were applied at the beginning of the RT protocol. Results: Anxiety and depression symptoms were more frequent in recipient candidates than in donors ([anxiety 39% vs 21%] [depression 46% vs 15%]) (p<0.0001). The recipients presented a higher risk of depression (OR=4.770, 95% CI 2.854-7.974, p<0.0001) and anxiety (OR=2.383, 95% CI 1.478-3.841, p<0.001). Undertaking hemodialysis in private units (OR 0.264, 95%CI 0.106-0.662, p=0.004) or being on automated peritoneal dialysis (OR 0.386, 95%CI 0.173-0.862, p=0.020 was associated with less anxiety in recipients. Conclusions: a high frequency of anxiety and depression symptoms in the BinRD, so it is important to offer effective psychological interventions focused especially on the recipient during the donation evaluation process.

RESUMEN Introducción: La detección de ansiedad y depresión en el binomio receptor-donador (BinRD) durante el protocolo de trasplante renal (TR) es importante, para establecer intervenciones psicoeducativas que ayuden a lograr el éxito durante y después del TR. Objetivo: Determinar presencia de síntomas de ansiedad y depresión en el BinRD durante el protocolo de TR e identificar características y factores asociados. Métodos: Estudio transversal, incluye 174 binomios en evaluación para TR. Se aplicó la Escala de Depresión de Beck (BDI-II) y la Escala de Ansiedad y Depresión Hospitalaria (HADS) al inicio del protocolo de TR. Resultados: Síntomas de ansiedad y depresión fueron más frecuentes en candidatos a receptores que en donadores ([ansiedad 39% vs 21%] [depresión 46% vs 15%]) (p<0.0001). Los receptores, presentaron mayor riesgo de depresión (OR=4.770, IC 95% 2.854-7.974, p<0.0001) y ansiedad (OR=2.383, IC 95% 1.478-3.841, p<0.001). Realizarse hemodiálisis en unidades privadas (OR 0.264, IC95% 0.106-0.662, p=0.004) o estar en diálisis peritoneal automatizada (OR 0.386, IC95% 0.173-0.862, p=0.020 se asoció a menor ansiedad en receptores. Conclusiones: Se evidenció una alta frecuencia de síntomas de ansiedad y depresión en el BinRD, por lo que es importante ofrecer intervenciones psicológicas eficaces enfocadas especialmente al receptor durante el proceso de evaluación para la donación.

Protein Profiling of Psittacanthus calyculatus during Mesquite Infection.

Psittacanthus calyculatus is a hemiparasite mistletoe that represents an ecological problem due to the impacts caused to various tree species of ecological and commercial interest. Although the life cycle for the Psittacanthus genus is well established in the literature, the development stages and molecular mechanism implicated in P. calyculatus host infection are poorly understood. In this study, we used a manageable infestation of P. laevigata with P. calyculatus to clearly trace the infection, which allowed us to describe five phenological infective stages of mistletoe on host tree branches: mature seed (T1), holdfast formation (T2), haustorium activation (T3), haustorium penetration (T4), and haustorium connection (T5) with the host tree. Proteomic analyses revealed proteins with a different accumulation and cellular processes in infective stages. Activities of the cell wall-degrading enzymes cellulase and ß-1,4-glucosidase were primarily active in haustorium development (T3), while xylanase, endo-glucanase, and peptidase were highly active in the haustorium penetration (T4) and xylem connection (T5). Patterns of auxins and cytokinin showed spatial concentrations in infective stages and moreover were involved in haustorium development. These results are the first evidence of proteins, cell wall-degrading enzymes, and phytohormones that are involved in early infection for the Psittacanthus genus, and thus represent a general infection mechanism for other mistletoe species. These results could help to understand the molecular dialogue in the establishment of P. calyculatus parasitism.

Extracellular Self- and Non-Self DNA Involved in Damage Recognition in the Mistletoe Parasitism of Mesquite Trees.

Psittacanthus calyculatus parasitizes mesquite trees through a specialized structure called a haustorium, which, in the intrusive process, can cause cellular damage in the host tree and release DAMPs, such as ATP, sugars, RNA, and DNA. These are highly conserved molecules that primarily function as signals that trigger and activate the defense responses. In the present study, we generate extracellular DNA (exDNA) from mesquite (P. laevigata) tree leaves (self-exDNA) and P. calyculatus (non-self exDNA) mistletoe as DAMP sources to examine mesquite trees' capacity to identify specific self or non-self exDNA. We determined that mesquite trees perceive self- and non-self exDNA with the synthesis of O2•-, H2O2, flavonoids, ROS-enzymes system, MAPKs activation, spatial concentrations of JA, SA, ABA, and CKs, and auxins. Our data indicate that self and non-self exDNA application differs in oxidative burst, JA signaling, MAPK gene expression, and scavenger systems. This is the first study to examine the molecular biochemistry effects in a host tree using exDNA sources derived from a mistletoe.

Nonequilibrium dynamical structure factor of a dilute suspension of active particles in a viscoelastic fluid.

In this work we investigate the dynamics of the number-density fluctuations of a dilute suspension of active particles in a linear viscoelastic fluid. We propose a model for the frequency-dependent diffusion coefficient of the active particles which captures the effect of rotational diffusion on the persistence of their self-propelled motion and the viscoelasticity of the medium. Using fluctuating hydrodynamics, the linearized equations for the active suspension are derived, from which we calculate its dynamic structure factor and the corresponding intermediate scattering function. For a Maxwell-type rheological model, we find an intricate dependence of these functions on the parameters that characterize the viscoelasticity of the solvent and the activity of the particles, which can significantly deviate from those of an inert suspension of passive particles and of an active suspension in a Newtonian solvent. In particular, in some regions of the parameter space we uncover the emergence of oscillations in the intermediate scattering function at certain wave numbers which represent the hallmark of the nonequilibrium particle activity in the dynamical structure of the suspension and also encode the viscoelastic properties of the medium.

Phytochemical Screening and Bioactivities of Cactaceae Family Members Endemic to Mexico.

Mexico is a center of diversification for the Cactaceae family, with 69% of the species recorded as endemic. Certain members of the Cactaceae family have been chemically analyzed to relate their medicinal use with their phytochemistry. Here, the phytochemistry and bioactivity of ethanol extracts of Ferocactus echidne, F. latispinus, and Mammillaria geminispina were evaluated. A preliminary phytochemical analysis was performed, detecting the presence of saponins, tannins, cardiotonic glycosides, and sesquiterpene lactones. The presence of nicotinic acid in F. echidne and F. latispinus was identified by GC-MS. Other compounds found in the extracts of these three species were gentisic acid, diosmetin, chlorogenic acid, N-methyltyramide, and hordenine. The antioxidant activity was estimated with the DPPH free radical scavenging test. To determine the toxicity of the extracts, the in vivo model of Artemia spp. was used. In addition, the cytotoxicity of the extract was tested on C6, HaCaT, THP-1, and U937 cell lines, while the inflammatory activity was tested by measuring the secretion of cytokines using macrophage cells. The three species showed different bioactivities, including antioxidant, antimicrobial, cytotoxic, and anti-inflammatory activities. To the best of our knowledge, the results presented here are the first described for these species.

Self-reported dietary omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids are associated with adipose tissue markers and glucose metabolism in apparently healthy subjects.

BACKGROUND: Plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (PAI-1) and resistin are associated with dysfunctional adipose tissue (AT)-related metabolic complications. The role of dietary eicosapentaenoic (EPA) and docosahexaenoic (DHA) fatty acids in this relationship is unknown. AIM: To investigate the association of EPA and DHA with PAI-1 and resistin, as well as the role of this association on the glucose metabolism of apparently healthy subjects. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Thirty-six healthy individuals were included. Validated food frequency questionnaires were used to analyse dietary habits. Inflammatory and glucose metabolism markers were quantified. Subcutaneous AT samples were obtained, and adipocyte number, area, and macrophage content were assessed. RESULTS: In 36 subjects aged 56 ± 8 years and with a body mass index of 26 ± 4 kg/m2, logEPA, and logDHA showed significant association with logresistin and a marginal association with PAI-1. Adipocyte number, area, and lognumber of macrophages per adipocyte significantly correlated with PAI-1 but not with logresistin. Although logEPA and logDHA were independently associated with loginsulin, loginsulin resistance, and C-Peptide, the addition of logresistin, but not of PAI-1, into the multivariable model, abolished the associations. CONCLUSIONS: EPA and DHA could modulate glucose metabolism across AT functional states. Our data indicate that this association is independent of other metabolic risk factors.

Antimycobacterial, cytotoxic, and anti-inflammatory activities of Artemisialudoviciana.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: A third part of the world population has been exposed to the pathogen Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the etiological agent of tuberculosis (TB). TB is a deadly disease, and its treatment has been hampered because of the lack of new antibiotics or the development of new antimycobacterial agents against this pathogen. The situation is aggravated because of the appearance of multidrug-resistant strains. In Mexican traditional medicine, records showed Artemisia ludoviciana for the treatment of TB. Thus, the combination of antibiotics and plant extracts might represent new antimycobacterial agents as an attractive alternative. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The biological activities of ethanol extract obtained from A. ludoviciana were evaluated for its antimycobacterial activities using an M. tuberculosis clinical isolate. Also, the toxicity of the extracts was assessed ex vivo and in vivo using the human-derived macrophages cell line (THP-1) and the Artemia spp. model, respectively. Lastly, the inflammatory response of macrophages exposed to the extracts was also evaluated. RESULTS: The ethanol extract of A. ludoviciana showed antimycobacterial activity with a MIC of 250 µg/mL against a clinical strain of M. tuberculosis. Ex vivo cytotoxicity using the THP-1 cell line incubated with the ethanol extract showed an IC50 of 20 µg/mL. On the other hand, the Artemia model's toxicity test showed moderate toxicity when the A. ludoviciana extract was tested with LC50 of 195.64 µg/mL. Analysis of the inflammatory response of THP-1 cells exposed to the same extract showed no increase in secreted interleukine-6 and -10. Also, no effect was observed in the pro-inflammatory tumor necrosis factor-α cytokine level. Moreover, a chemical profile of the extracts identified achillin as the major component in the ethanol extract, along with other minor components such as thujone and stigmasterol. CONCLUSIONS: We showed that the ethanol extract of A. ludoviciana possessed antimycobacterial activity and could potentially be used to supplement the antibiotic treatment of TB.

Transparencia y acceso a la información pública de la política alimentaria de comedores escolares, Argentina / Transparency and access to public information on the food policy of school canteens, Argentina

Introducción: La transparencia y el acceso a la información pública son mecanismos importantes que facilitan y posibilitan políticas públicas participativas. Sin embargo, existen escasos antecedentes que apliquen sus principios a las políticas alimentarias y nutricionales. Objetivo: Explorar el estado actual de la transparencia de la política alimentaria de comedores escolares en Argentina a través de las posibilidades de acceso a la información pública. Métodos: Estudio descriptivo, transversal y exploratorio con métodos cuantitativos y cualitativos a partir del análisis de documentos gubernamentales publicados hasta el año 2019 en los sitios web de ministerios a nivel nacional y de las 24 jurisdicciones del país. Se utilizó la técnica de análisis de contenido y triangulación por observador. Se incluyeron 308 documentos. Resultados: Veinte jurisdicciones contaron con normativa para el acceso a la información pública y seis no tuvieron regulaciones para los comedores escolares. En cualquier escenario normativo (con/sin ley sobre el acceso a la información pública) fue escaso el acceso a la información de las políticas de comedores escolares. Los aspectos más críticos fueron: indicadores, periodo de implementación de los servicios alimentarios, presupuestos, presencia de enfoque de accesibilidad universal y articulación con otras políticas sociales. Conclusiones: Se necesita de manera urgente aplicar criterios de transparencia a las políticas de comedores escolares. Los gobiernos a nivel nacional y subnacional deben demostrar un mayor compromiso para garantizar el derecho al acceso a la información pública en las políticas alimentarias y nutricionales y consolidar los entornos virtuales como principal herramienta para aproximar el Estado a la ciudadanía(AU)

Introduction: Transparency and access to public information are important mechanisms that facilitate and enable participatory public policies. However, there is little precedent for applying its principles to food and nutrition policies. Objective: Explore the current state of transparency of the food policy of school canteens in Argentina through the chances of access to public information. Methods: Descriptive, cross-sectional and exploratory study with quantitative and qualitative methods based on analysis of government documents published until 2019 on the websites of ministries at the national level and of the 24 jurisdictions of the country. The technique of content analysis and triangulation by observer was used. 308 documents were included. Results: Twenty jurisdictions had regulations for access to public information and six had no regulations for school canteens. In any regulatory scenario (with/without a law on access to public information) access to information on school canteen policies was scarce. The most critical aspects were: indicators, period of implementation of food services, budgets, presence of a universal accessibility approach and articulation with other social policies. Conclusions: There is an urgent need to apply transparency criteria to school canteen policies. Governments at the national and sub-national levels must show a greater commitment to guarantee the right to access public information in food and nutrition policies and consolidate virtual environments as the main tool to bring the State closer to citizens(AU)

Moral Injury and Light Triad Traits: Anxiety and Depression in Health-Care Personnel During the Coronavirus-2019 Pandemic in Honduras.

The purpose of the current study was to determine the influence of moral injury and Light Triad (LT) personality traits on anxiety and depression symptoms of health-care personnel during the coronavirus-2019 pandemic. A quantitative, cross-sectional research design was used, the study included a sample of 169 health-care workers from Honduras. Data was gathered through the Moral Injury Symptom Scale for Health Professionals (MISS-HP), Light Triad Scale (LTS), the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7, and the Patient-Health Questionnaire-9. Results suggest that almost 9 out of 10 respondents experienced at least one potentially morally injurious event, 45.6% were at significant risk of impairment related to moral injury. Working with limited staff and resources, and the implications of it, was the most common potentially morally injurious situation reported by the respondents. Results suggest that MISS-HP Mistrust has significant negative correlations with LT traits. A hierarchical regression model determined that Moral Injury, but not LT traits, significantly affected depression symptoms. On the other hand, anxiety symptoms were significantly predicted by Moral Injury, as did LTS-Humanism. The results were discussed according to their implications for public health policy in Latin America.