Characterization of Nano- and Microstructures of Native Potato Starch as Affected by Physical, Chemical, and Biological Treatments.

Modifying starch allows for improvements in its properties to enable improved uses in food matrices, bioplastics, and encapsulating agents. In this research, four varieties of native potato starch were modified by acid treatment, enzymatic treatment, and ethanol precipitation, and their physicochemical, structural, thermal, and techno-functional characteristics were analyzed. According to FT-IR analysis, no influence of the modified starches on the chemical groups was observed, and by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), spherical and oval shapes were observed in the acid and enzymatic treatments, with particle sizes between 27 and 36 µm. In particular, the ethanolic precipitation treatment yielded a different morphology with a particle size between 10.9 and 476.3 nm, resulting in a significant decrease in gelatinization temperature (DSC) and more pronounced crystallites (XRD). On the other hand, the enzymatic treatment showed higher values for z-potential (ζ), and the acid treatment showed lower mass loss (TGA). Acid and ethanolic treatments affected the dough properties compared to native starches. The techno-functional properties showed a decrease in the water absorption index, an increase in the water solubility index, and varied swelling power behaviors. In conclusion, the modification of potato starches through acid, enzymatic, and ethanolic precipitation treatments alters their physicochemical properties, such as swelling capacity, viscosity, and thermal stability. This in turn affects their molecular structure, modifying morphology and the ability to form gels, which expands their applications in the food industry to improve textures, stabilize emulsions, and thicken products. Furthermore, these modifications also open new opportunities for the development of bioplastics by improving the biodegradability and mechanical properties of starch-based plastic materials.

Pancreas transplantation: review.

Pancreas transplant (PTx) is the only treatment that establishes normal glucose levels for patients diagnosed with diabetes types 1 and 2. The paper aims to review and analyze graft survival, patient survival, and the impact on diabetic complications. We describe that the graft survival was 82-98% at 1 year, 90% at 5 years, and 75-54% at 10 years for simultaneous pancreas-kidney recipient; 71% pancreas after kidney (PAK), and 62% PTx alone at 1 year. Patient survival: At 1 year for recipients was 96.9% simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplantation (SPK); for PAK transplantation recipients, 96.3%; and for PTx alone recipients, 98.3%. In general, the pancreas transplantation improves and reverses diabetic complications. Finally, the pancreatic transplant is a morbid procedure and emerges as a significant alternative in diabetes management, directly competing with conventional insulin therapies. Results so far suggest that the most effective transplant model is the SPK. While more patients could benefit from this procedure, surgical complications and the need for immunosuppression pose significant challenges.

El trasplante de páncreas es el único tratamiento que estabiliza los niveles normales de glucosa en los pacientes diagnosticados con diabetes tipo 1 o tipo 2. En esta revisión se analizan la supervivencia del injerto, la supervivencia del paciente y el impacto en las complicaciones diabéticas. Se describe la supervivencia del injerto: 82-98% al año para los receptores de trasplante simultáneo de páncreas y riñón, 71% para trasplante páncreas después de riñón y 62% para trasplante de páncreas solitario al año. Supervivencia de los pacientes a 1 año: 96.9% para los receptores de trasplante simultáneo de páncreas y riñón, 96.3% para los receptores de trasplante de páncreas después de riñón y 98.3% para los receptores de páncreas solitario. En general, el trasplante de páncreas mejora y revierte las complicaciones diabéticas. Finalmente, el trasplante de páncreas, un procedimiento mórbido, surge como una alternativa significativa en el manejo de la diabetes, compitiendo directamente con las terapias convencionales de insulina. Hasta ahora, los resultados indican que el modelo de trasplante más efectivo es el simultáneo de páncreas y riñón. Aunque más pacientes podrían beneficiarse de este procedimiento, las complicaciones quirúrgicas y la necesidad de inmunosupresión plantean desafíos significativos.

Irritable bowel syndrome and erectile dysfunction in medical students at a Peruvian university: an analytical cross-sectional analysis.

Background: There is inconclusive evidence regarding the role of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in the development of erectile dysfunction (ED), especially among medical students due to high academic stress. Aim: To determine the association between IBS and ED in medical students from a Peruvian university in 2022. Methods: An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted with secondary data analysis on 133 medical students from a university in northern Peru during the 2021-II academic semester. The dependent variable was ED as measured with the 5-item International Index of Erectile Function, and the exposure variable was IBS as assessed with the Rome IV-Bristol questionnaire. Outcomes: The results were the prevalence rates of IBS and ED and the association of these variables. Results: Of the 133 medical students surveyed, the median age was 22 years (IQR, 19-24). The median score on the 5-item International Index of Erectile Function was 21 (IQR, 10-24). The prevalence of ED was 38.4% (95% CI, 30.05%-47.17%). Among the medical students 3% and 9% displayed moderate and severe ED, respectively, and 24.8%, 13.5%, and 24.1% showed moderate depressive, anxious, and severe symptoms. An overall 10.5% had IBS. Medical students with IBS had a 108% higher prevalence of ED than those without the syndrome (prevalence ratio, 2.08; 95% CI, 1.06-4.06). Other confounding variables were not significantly associated (P > .05). Clinical Implications: The results underline the importance of comprehensive sexual and mental health assessment, with an emphasis on the relationship between IBS and ED in medical students. Strengths and Limitations: Strengths include the use of validated and reliable instruments and rigorous biostatistical methods, and this is the first Peruvian investigation to explain the association between IBS and ED in medical students. Limitations include the cross-sectional design and nonprobability sampling, and there may be bias in applying the instruments. Conclusion: This study reveals a significant association between IBS and a higher prevalence of ED in these students.

An extinct north American porcupine with a South American tail.

New World porcupines (Erethizontinae) originated in South America and dispersed into North America as part of the Great American Biotic Interchange (GABI) 3-4 million years ago.1 Extant prehensile-tailed porcupines (Coendou) today live in tropical forests of Central and South America.2,3 In contrast, North American porcupines (Erethizon dorsatum) are thought to be ecologically adapted to higher-latitude temperate forests, with a larger body, shorter tail, and diet that includes bark.4,5,6,7 Limited fossils8,9,10,11,12,13 have hindered our understanding of the timing of this ecological differentiation relative to intercontinental dispersal during the GABI and expansion into temperate habitats.14,15,16,17,18 Here, we describe functionally important features of the skeleton of the extinct Erethizon poyeri, the oldest nearly complete porcupine skeleton documented from North America, found in the early Pleistocene of Florida. It differs from extant E. dorsatum in having a long, prehensile tail, grasping foot, and lacking dental specializations for bark gnawing, similar to tropical Coendou. Results from phylogenetic analysis suggest that the more arboreal characteristics found in E. poyeri are ancestral for erethizontines. Only after it expanded into temperate, Nearctic habitats did Erethizon acquire the characteristic features that it is known for today. When combined with molecular estimates of divergence times, results suggest that Erethizon was ecologically similar to a larger species of Coendou when it crossed the Isthmus of Panama by the early Pleistocene. It is likely that the range of this more tropically adapted form was limited to a continuous forested biome that extended from South America through the Gulf Coast.

Prevalence and associated factors of premature ejaculation and erectile dysfunction in young, single men who have sex with men in Lima, Peru.

Background: While there is literature on erectile dysfunction (ED) and premature ejaculation (PE) in men, conclusive evidence regarding these sexual health issues and potential associated factors in the young, single men who have sex with men (MSM) population is lacking. Aim: The study sought to determine the prevalence and factors associated with PE and ED in young single MSM in the capital of Peru. Methods: This was an analytical cross-sectional study in MSM using an online questionnaire. The presence of ED and PE was assessed using the 5-item International Index of Erectile Function and 5-item Premature Ejaculation Diagnostic Tool questionnaires, respectively. In addition, their association with personal, physical health, and sexual behavior variables was evaluated. Prevalence ratios (PRs) were estimated through regression models. Outcomes: Premature ejaculation and Erectile dysfunction in MSM. Results: Of 315 participants, most were between 20 to 29 years of age (71.8%), 43.5% identified as homosexual, 59.1% had between 2 and 5 sexual partners, and 40.6% reported that the duration of their sexual relationship was between 1 and 12 months. The prevalence of ED was 53.3% (95% confidence interval [CI], 47.66%-58.95%), and PE was present in 8.3% (95% CI, 5.46%-11.86%). Factors associated with a higher prevalence of ED were having between 6 and 9 sexual partners (PR, 1.48; 95% CI, 1.05-2.11) and having a sexual relationship lasting 13 to 24 months (PR, 0.70; 95% CI, 0.50-0.98). Furthermore, for each additional year from the onset of the first sexual encounter with another man, the prevalence of PE increased by 7% (PR, 1.07; 95% CI, 1.02-1.13). Clinical Implications: These findings suggest that there is a relationship between an increased number of sexual partners and a higher prevalence of ED. It also suggests that relationships that last for some time may have a protective effect against ED. Strengths and Limitations: Strengths include the use of validated instruments, adequate sample size, robust multivariate analysis, and being one of the few studies in Latin America assessing PE and ED in the MSM population. Limitations include the cross-sectional design, nonprobability sampling, and access to participants. Conclusion: Having more sexual partners is associated with increased ED, while relationships lasting 13 to 24 months are associated with decreased ED. Each additional year from the onset of the first sexual relationship increases the prevalence of PE. These findings can guide the design of health policies and programs tailored to the MSM community to enhance their well-being and sexual quality of life.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome in medical students at a Peruvian university: a cross-sectional study.

Background: Irritable Bowel Syndrome has emerged as a significant public health challenge, particularly relevant in medical students due to the high demands of their studies, academic stress, and susceptibility to eating disorders. Nevertheless, conclusive evidence regarding the factors associated with Irritable Bowel Syndrome in the Latin American student population remains limited. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence and factors associated with Irritable Bowel Syndrome in Human Medicine students at a university in northern Peru. Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study conducted in Lambayeque, northern Peru. With 403 Human Medicine students (66.5% female, 33.5% male). A simple random probabilistic sampling type was used, based on a list of students enrolled. A multivariate analysis was conducted to determine the factors associated using simple and multiple regression models. Generalized Linear Models were applied, using the Poisson distribution family, robust variance, and the academic year as a cluster. Results: The prevalence of Irritable Bowel Syndrome was 16.9% (95% CI: 13.37-20.86). The median age was 21 years, with 66.5% being female. In the multiple regression analysis, Irritable Bowel Syndrome was associated with a higher prevalence of depression (PR: 3.63; 95% CI: 1.26-10.49) and eating disorders (PR: 1.57; 95% CI: 1.01-2.43). For each additional year of age, the prevalence of Irritable Bowel Syndrome decreased by 9% (PR: 0.91; 95% CI: 0.83-0.99). Conclusion: This study reveals that approximately two out of every 10 students exhibit symptoms related to IBS, underscoring its significance in the Human Medicine student population. Furthermore, depression and eating disorders were identified as significant factors associated with IBS in students. Consequently, it is essential to focus efforts on early identification and the implementation of preventive measures to mitigate the development of this pathology, given its substantial prevalence in this context of Human Medicine students.

Evaluation of the safety and quality of Brazil nuts (Bertholletia excelsa) using the tools of dna sequencing technology and aflatoxin profile.

Introduction: Brazil nuts (BNs) result from sustainable extraction and are widely exploited in the Amazon region. Due to the production characteristics in the forest and the nutritional characteristics of these nuts, the occurrence of fungal contamination and the presence of aflatoxins are extensively discussed in the literature as a great aspect of interest and concern. This study aims to evaluate the microbial profile through DNA sequencing and amplification of 16S and ITS genes for bacterial and fungal analysis, respectively, and the presence of mycotoxins using high-performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection (HPLC-FD) from different fractions of the nuts processed. Methods: The BN samples, harvest A (HA) and harvest B (HB), from two different harvests were collected in an extractive cooperative in the Amazon region for microbiological analysis (from DNA extraction and amplification of 16S genes, bacteria analysis, and ITS for fungi) and mycotoxins (aflatoxins AFB1, AFB2, AFG1, and AFG2) using HPLC-FD/KobraCell®. Results and discussion: The samples showed a very different microbiome and aflatoxin profile. Genera such as Rothia (HA) and Cronobacter (HB) were abundant during the analysis of bacteria; as for fungi, the genera Aspergillus, Fusarium, Penicillium, and Alternaria were also considered prevalent in these samples. Soil microorganisms, including those pathogenic and related to inadequate hygienic-sanitary production practices, as well as aflatoxins, were found in the samples. However, they were within the established limits permitted by Brazilian legislation. Nuts have a diverse microbiota and are not restricted to fungi of the genus Aspergillus. The microbiological and toxicological profile can vary significantly within the same nut in the same extraction region and can be exacerbated by global climate changes. Therefore, it is necessary to advance sanitary educational actions by applying good production practices and inspection programs to ensure the sustainability and quality of the BN production chain.

Histoplasma antigens as novel players for the development of new enzyme immunoassays for the serodiagnosis of histoplasmosis: A comparative study of their analytical performance.

Definitive diagnosis of histoplasmosis relies on culture and/or cytology/histopathology; however, these procedures have limited sensitivity and cultures are time-consuming. Antibodies detection by immunodiffusion has low sensitivity in immunocompromised individuals and uses histoplasmin (HMN), a crude antigenic extract, as reagent. Novel protein antigen candidates have been recently identified and produced by DNA-recombinant techniques to obtain standardized and specific reagents for diagnosing histoplasmosis. To compare the analytical performance of novel enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) for antibodies testing for diagnosing histoplasmosis using different Histoplasma capsulatum antigens as reagents. The H. capsulatum 100 kDa protein (Hcp100), the M antigen and its immunoreactive fragment F1 were produced by DNA-recombinant techniques. Galactomannan was purified from both the yeast and mycelial cell walls (yGM and mGM, respectively). The analytical performance of the ELISA tests for the serological detection of antibodies against these antigens was evaluated and compared with those obtained using HMN as reagent. Antibodies detection by the Hcp100 ELISA demonstrated 90.0% sensitivity and 92.0% specificity, versus 43.3% sensitivity and 95.0% specificity of the M ELISA, 33.3% sensitivity and 84.0% specificity of the F1 ELISA, 96.7% sensitivity and 94.0% specificity of the yGM ELISA, 83.3% sensitivity and 88.0% specificity of the mGM ELISA, and 70.0% sensitivity and 86.0% specificity for the HMN ELISA. In summary, Hcp100 is proposed as the most promising candidate for the serodiagnosis of histoplasmosis. The primary immunoreactive element in HMN proved to be GM rather than the M antigen. Nevertheless, a higher incidence of cross-reactions was noted with GM compared to M.

Hcp100 is a promising serodiagnostic candidate for histoplasmosis, boasting high sensitivity and specificity. Notably, GM, rather than M antigen, emerged as the primary immunoreactive element in HMN, despite a higher incidence of cross-reactions with GM compared to M.

Prevalence and factors associated with fear of COVID-19 in military personnel during the second epidemic wave in Peru.

Introduction: During the COVID-19 pandemic, the mounting workload and heightened stress may contribute to exacerbated mental health challenges, including an increased fear of COVID-19, among military personnel. Despite the potential influence of these factors, there remains a scarcity of studies addressing mental health issues, particularly the fear of COVID-19, within this specific population. We aimed to determine the prevalence and factors associated with fear of COVID-19 among military members. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between November 2 and 9, 2021, during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in the Lambayeque region, Peru. The outcome variable was fear of COVID-19, assessed using the Fear of COVID-19 Scale. The association with resilience (Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale, abbreviated as CD-RISC), food insecurity (Household Food Insecurity Access Scale, abbreviated as HFIAS), physical activity (International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form, abbreviated as IPAQ-S), eating disorder (Eating Attitudes Test-26, abbreviated as EAT-26), and other socio- demographic variables was assessed. Results: Among the 525 participants, the median age was 22, 95.8% were male, and 19.2% experienced fear of COVID-19. A higher prevalence of fear of COVID-19 was associated with age (PR=1.03; 95% CI: 1.01-1.06), religion (PR=2.05; 95% CI: 1.04-4.05), eating disorder (PR=2.95; 95% CI: 1.99-4.36), and having a relative with mental disorder (PR=2.13; 95% CI: 1.09-4.17). Overweight (PR=0.58; 95% CI: 0.37-0.90) and a high level of resilience (PR=0.63; 95% CI: 0.43-0.93) were associated with a lower prevalence of fear of COVID-19. Discussion: Two out of ten military personnel were afraid of COVID-19. Our results highlight the need for targeted interventions addressing the factors contributing to fear of COVID-19 among military personnel, emphasizing the significance of mental health support and preventive measures within this specific population.

Dietary oily fish intake is inversely associated with moderate-to-severe intracranial artery stenosis in older adults of indigenous Ecuadorian ancestry.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Information on the association between dietary oily fish intake and intracranial atherosclerosis is limited and contradictory. Inconsistencies might be in part related to heterogeneous designs and differences in race/ethnicity of study populations. We aim to assess whether oily fish intake is inversely associated with intracranial artery stenosis (ICAS) in frequent fish consumers of indigenous ancestry living in coastal Ecuador. METHODS: The study included 384 participants aged ≥60 years enrolled in the Atahualpa Project Cohort. Dietary oily fish intake was quantified systematically via validated surveys and all participants received a time-of-flight MRA of intracranial vessels. Poisson regression models, adjusted for demographics, level of education, traditional risk factors and severe tooth loss, were fitted to assess the association between amounts of oily fish intake and the number of intracranial arteries with moderate-to-severe (≥50 %) stenosis. RESULTS: Participants had a mean age of 67.7 ± 7 years, and 56 % were women. The mean oily fish intake was 8.9 ± 5.2 servings/week; 283 (74 %) participants consumed ≥5.2 servings/week (2nd to 4th quartiles of fish intake). Forty-three (11 %) participants had at least one major intracranial artery with moderate-to-severe stenosis. Both univariate and multivariate models showed a significant inverse association between consumption of oily fish in the 2nd to 4th quartiles and ≥50 % stenosis in at least one artery (ß: 0.46; 95 % C.I.: 0.27-077, and ß: 0.52; 95 % C.I.: 0.30-0.90, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Consumption of more than five oily fish servings/week is associated with lower prevalence of moderate-to-severe ICAS in indigenous Ecuadorians.

Treatment Outcomes With Licensed and Unlicensed Stimulant Doses for Adults With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Importance: Stimulants (methylphenidate and amphetamines) are often prescribed at unlicensed doses for adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Whether dose escalation beyond US Food and Drug Administration recommendations is associated with positive risk benefits is unclear. Objective: To investigate the impact, based on averages, of stimulant doses on treatment outcomes in adults with ADHD and to determine, based on averages, whether unlicensed doses are associated with positive risk benefits compared with licensed doses. Data Sources: Twelve databases, including published (PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, Web of Sciences) and unpublished (ClinicalTrials.gov) literature, up to February 22, 2023, without language restrictions. Study Selection: Two researchers independently screened records to identify double-blinded randomized clinical trials of stimulants against placebo in adults (18 years and older) with ADHD. Data Extraction and Synthesis: Aggregate data were extracted and synthesized in random-effects dose-response meta-analyses and network meta-analyses. Main Outcome Measures: Change in ADHD symptoms and discontinuations due to adverse events. Results: A total of 47 randomized clinical trials (7714 participants; mean age, 35 (SD, 11) years; 4204 male [56%]) were included. For methylphenidate, dose-response curves indicated additional reductions of symptoms with increments in doses, but the gains were progressively smaller and accompanied by continued additional risk of adverse events dropouts. Network meta-analyses showed that unlicensed doses were associated with greater reductions of symptoms compared with licensed doses (standardized mean difference [SMD], -0.23; 95% CI, -0.44 to -0.02; very low certainty of evidence), but the additional gain was small and accompanied by increased risk of adverse event dropouts (odds ratio, 2.02; 95% CI, 1.19-3.43; moderate certainty of evidence). For amphetamines, the dose-response curve approached a plateau and increments in doses did not indicate additional reductions of symptoms, but there were continued increments in the risk of adverse event dropouts. Network meta-analysis did not identify differences between unlicensed and licensed doses for reductions of symptoms (SMD, -0.08; 95% CI, -0.24 to 0.08; very low certainty of evidence). Conclusions and Relevance: Based on group averages, unlicensed doses of stimulants may not have positive risk benefits compared with licensed doses for adults with ADHD. In general, practitioners should consider unlicensed doses cautiously. Practitioners may trial unlicensed doses if needed and tolerated but should be aware that there may not be large gains in the response to the medication with those further increments in dose. However, the findings are averages and will not generalize to every patient.

Repeated exposure of wheat to the fungal root pathogen Bipolaris sorokiniana modulates rhizosphere microbiome assembly and disease suppressiveness.

BACKGROUND: Disease suppressiveness of soils to fungal root pathogens is typically induced in the field by repeated infections of the host plant and concomitant changes in the taxonomic composition and functional traits of the rhizosphere microbiome. Here, we studied this remarkable phenomenon for Bipolaris sorokiniana in two wheat cultivars differing in resistance to this fungal root pathogen. RESULTS: The results showed that repeated exposure of the susceptible wheat cultivar to the pathogen led to a significant reduction in disease severity after five successive growth cycles. Surprisingly, the resistant wheat cultivar, initially included as a control, showed the opposite pattern with an increase in disease severity after repeated pathogen exposure. Amplicon analyses revealed that the bacterial families Chitinophagaceae, Anaerolineaceae and Nitrosomonadaceae were associated with disease suppressiveness in the susceptible wheat cultivar; disease suppressiveness in the resistant wheat cultivar was also associated with Chitinophagaceae and a higher abundance of Comamonadaceae. Metagenome analysis led to the selection of 604 Biosynthetic Gene Clusters (BGCs), out of a total of 2,571 identified by AntiSMASH analysis, that were overrepresented when the soil entered the disease suppressive state. These BGCs are involved in the biosynthesis of terpenes, non-ribosomal peptides, polyketides, aryl polyenes and post-translationally modified peptides. CONCLUSION: Combining taxonomic and functional profiling we identified key changes in the rhizosphere microbiome during disease suppression. This illustrates how the host plant relies on the rhizosphere microbiome as the first line of defense to fight soil-borne pathogens. Microbial taxa and functions identified here can be used in novel strategies to control soil-borne fungal pathogens.

Declaración de Cuernavaca.

Los Institutos Nacionales de Salud (INS) miembros de la Red Regional Latinoamericana de la Asociación Internacional de Institutos Nacionales de Salud Pública, reunidos en forma presencial en la sede del Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública de México, en la Ciudad de Cuernavaca, los días 5 al 7 de octubre de 2022, contando con la participación de los directores o representantes de los INS de (...).

Depression, anxiety, and stress in medical students in Peru: a cross-sectional study.

Objective: To determine the prevalence and factors associated with depressive, anxious, and stress symptoms in medical students in Peru, during the second pandemic wave of COVID-19. Methods: We conducted an analytical cross-sectional study in 405 medical students from a university in northern Peru. The DASS-21 instrument was used to evaluate mental health outcomes (depression, anxiety, and stress), and to investigate their association with socio-educational characteristics. Results: We found a prevalence of depressive, anxious, and stress symptoms of 71.6% (95% CI: 66.94-75.95), 71.9% (95% CI: 67.2-76.2), and 62.7% (95% CI: 57.8-67.4); respectively. Students with eating behavior disorders had a higher prevalence of depressive symptoms (PR: 1.35), anxious symptoms (PR: 1.27), and stress symptoms (PR: 1.31). The prevalence of depressive symptoms (PR: 1.57), anxious symptoms (PR: 1.27), and stress symptoms (PR: 1.24) increased in students who did not report regular physical activity. In addition, having almost always academic exhaustion increased the prevalence of depressive symptoms (PR: 1.46), stress symptoms (PR: 1.72). On the contrary, the prevalence of depressive symptoms (PR: 0.79), anxious symptoms (PR: 0.73) and stress symptoms (PR: 0.82) decreased in male students. Students who reported sleeping 8 or more hours daily had a lower prevalence of stress symptoms (PR: 0.82). Conclusion: Symptoms of depression and anxiety occurred in 7 out of 10 students, and stress in 6 out of 10. Among the factors associated with the presence of anxiety, depression, and stress were eating behavior disorder and not regularly exercising. Periodic evaluations of mental symptomatology are required and counseling should be promoted in medical schools.

Prevalence of alcohol, tobacco, and illicit drugs consumption during teenage pregnancy: an observational, prospective, and cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: Teenage pregnancy is a significant public health issue in Mexico; its prevalence oscillates around 20% of all pregnancies. Concurrently, alcohol, tobacco, and illicit drug use have become more common in this age group. METHODS: To estimate the prevalence of substance exposure in a population of pregnant teenagers, we conducted a prospective, observational, and cross-sectional study. The protocol was approved by the institutional review board. On informed consent, we asked 420 consecutive pregnant youngsters cared for at the outpatient obstetric service of a tertiary public regional women's and children's hospital in Nuevo León, in northeast Mexico, to answer a previously validated questionnaire to estimate the prevalence of alcohol, tobacco, or illicit drugs use during pregnancy. RESULTS: Of the 420 participants, 317 (75.5%) consumed at least one substance during pregnancy. Alcohol, either alone or in combination, was consumed by 300 (71.7%) participants. Tobacco was used by 117 (27.8%) participants, almost always in combination with other substances, while marijuana and other illicit drugs were consumed by 92 (21.9%) participants. Approximately one-fourth of the participants, 102 (24.1%) reported no substance use during pregnancy. CONCLUSIONS: In this series, the reported prevalence of alcohol, tobacco, and illicit drugs consumption during pregnancy, explored with a validated instrument, is higher than that previously reported in our country. This fact offers a worrying picture of another set of factors adding to the burden of teenage pregnancy.

INTRODUCCIÓN: El embarazo en la adolescencia ha adquirido gran importancia en la salud pública en México; su prevalencia oscila alrededor del 20% de los embarazos. Paralelamente, el consumo de alcohol, tabaco y drogas ilícitas en este periodo es cada vez más común en estas jóvenes. MÉTODOS: Para estimar la prevalencia de exposición a estas substancias en adolescentes embarazadas, se llevó a cabo un estudio prospectivo, observacional y transversal. El protocolo fue aprobado por los Comités de Ética e Investigación. Previo consentimiento informado, se solicito a 420 jóvenes embarazadas atendidas en la clínica prenatal del hospital materno-infantil más grande en Nuevo León, que respondieran un cuestionario previamente validado para estimar la prevalencia del consumo de substancias. RESULTADOS: De 420 participantes, 317 (75.5%) consumieron al menos una de estas sustancias durante el embarazo. El alcohol, solo o en combinación, fue consumido por 300 (71.5%). El tabaco fue usado por 117 (27.8%), casi siempre en combinación con otras sustancias, mientras que la mariguana y otras drogas ilícitas fueron consumidas por 92 (21.9%) participantes. Alrededor de una cuarta parte del grupo estudiado (24.1%) reportó no haber consumido ninguna de estas substancias en su embarazo. CONCLUSIONES: En nuestra serie, la prevalencia de consumo de alcohol, tabaco y drogas ilícitas durante el embarazo, explorada con un instrumento validado, es mayor de la reportada en estimaciones previas en nuestro país. Estos datos ofrecen un panorama preocupante de una serie de factores que se agregan a la carga del embarazo en la adolescencia.

Prevalence of alcohol, tobacco, and illicit drugs consumption during teenage pregnancy: an observational, prospective, and cross-sectional study / Prevalencia del consumo de alcohol, tabaco y drogas ilícitas durante el embarazo en adolescentes: un estudio observacional, prospectivo y transversal

Abstract Background: Teenage pregnancy is a significant public health issue in Mexico; its prevalence oscillates around 20% of all pregnancies. Concurrently, alcohol, tobacco, and illicit drug use have become more common in this age group. Methods: To estimate the prevalence of substance exposure in a population of pregnant teenagers, we conducted a prospective, observational, and cross-sectional study. The protocol was approved by the institutional review board. On informed consent, we asked 420 consecutive pregnant youngsters cared for at the outpatient obstetric service of a tertiary public regional women´s and children´s hospital in Nuevo León, in northeast Mexico, to answer a previously validated questionnaire to estimate the prevalence of alcohol, tobacco, or illicit drugs use during pregnancy. Results: Of the 420 participants, 317 (75.5%) consumed at least one substance during pregnancy. Alcohol, either alone or in combination, was consumed by 300 (71.7%) participants. Tobacco was used by 117 (27.8%) participants, almost always in combination with other substances, while marijuana and other illicit drugs were consumed by 92 (21.9%) participants. Approximately one-fourth of the participants, 102 (24.1%) reported no substance use during pregnancy. Conclusions: In this series, the reported prevalence of alcohol, tobacco, and illicit drugs consumption during pregnancy, explored with a validated instrument, is higher than that previously reported in our country. This fact offers a worrying picture of another set of factors adding to the burden of teenage pregnancy.

Resumen Introducción: El embarazo en la adolescencia ha adquirido gran importancia en la salud pública en México; su prevalencia oscila alrededor del 20% de los embarazos. Paralelamente, el consumo de alcohol, tabaco y drogas ilícitas en este periodo es cada vez más común en estas jóvenes. Métodos: Para estimar la prevalencia de exposición a estas substancias en adolescentes embarazadas, se llevó a cabo un estudio prospectivo, observacional y transversal. El protocolo fue aprobado por los Comités de Ética e Investigación. Previo consentimiento informado, se solicito a 420 jóvenes embarazadas atendidas en la clínica prenatal del hospital materno-infantil más grande en Nuevo León, que respondieran un cuestionario previamente validado para estimar la prevalencia del consumo de substancias. Resultados: De 420 participantes, 317 (75.5%) consumieron al menos una de estas sustancias durante el embarazo. El alcohol, solo o en combinación, fue consumido por 300 (71.5%). El tabaco fue usado por 117 (27.8%), casi siempre en combinación con otras sustancias, mientras que la mariguana y otras drogas ilícitas fueron consumidas por 92 (21.9%) participantes. Alrededor de una cuarta parte del grupo estudiado (24.1%) reportó no haber consumido ninguna de estas substancias en su embarazo. Conclusiones: En nuestra serie, la prevalencia de consumo de alcohol, tabaco y drogas ilícitas durante el embarazo, explorada con un instrumento validado, es mayor de la reportada en estimaciones previas en nuestro país. Estos datos ofrecen un panorama preocupante de una serie de factores que se agregan a la carga del embarazo en la adolescencia.

Ghrelin Action in the PVH of Male Mice: Accessibility, Neuronal Targets, and CRH Neurons Activation.

The hormone ghrelin displays several well-characterized functions, including some with pharmaceutical interest. The receptor for ghrelin, the growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHSR), is expressed in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVH), a critical hub for the integration of metabolic, neuroendocrine, autonomic, and behavioral functions. Here, we performed a neuroanatomical and functional characterization of the neuronal types mediating ghrelin actions in the PVH of male mice. We found that fluorescent ghrelin mainly labels PVH neurons immunoreactive for nitric oxide synthase 1 (NOS1), which catalyze the production of nitric oxide [NO]). Centrally injected ghrelin increases c-Fos in NOS1 PVH neurons and NOS1 phosphorylation in the PVH. We also found that a high dose of systemically injected ghrelin increases the ghrelin level in the cerebrospinal fluid and in the periventricular PVH, and induces c-Fos in NOS1 PVH neurons. Such a high dose of systemically injected ghrelin activates a subset of NOS1 PVH neurons, which do not express oxytocin, via an arcuate nucleus-independent mechanism. Finally, we found that pharmacological inhibition of NO production fully abrogates ghrelin-induced increase of calcium concentration in corticotropin-releasing hormone neurons of the PVH whereas it partially impairs ghrelin-induced increase of plasma glucocorticoid levels. Thus, plasma ghrelin can directly target a subset of NO-producing neurons of the PVH that is involved in ghrelin-induced activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal neuroendocrine axis.

Microbiome engineering optimized by Antarctic microbiota to support a plant host under water deficit.

Climate change challenges modern agriculture to develop alternative and eco-friendly solutions to alleviate abiotic and/or biotic stresses. The use of soil microbiomes from extreme environments opens new avenues to discover novel microorganisms and microbial functions to protect plants. In this study we confirm the ability of a bioinoculant, generated by natural engineering, to promote host development under water stress. Microbiome engineering was mediated through three factors i) Antarctic soil donation, ii) water deficit and iii) multigenerational tomato host selection. We revealed that tomato plants growing in soils supplemented with Antarctic microbiota were tolerant to water deficit stress after 10 generations. A clear increase in tomato seedling tolerance against water deficit stress was observed in all soils over generations of Host Mediated Microbiome Engineering, being Fildes mixture the most representatives, which was evidenced by an increased survival time, plant stress index, biomass accumulation, and decreased leaf proline content. Microbial community analysis using 16s rRNA gene amplicon sequencing data suggested a microbiome restructuring that could be associated with increased tolerance of water deficit. Additionally, the results showed a significant increase in the relative abundance of Candidatus Nitrosocosmicus and Bacillus spp. which could be key taxa associated with the observed tolerance improvement. We proposed that in situ microbiota engineering through the evolution of three factors (long-standing extreme climate adaption and host and stress selection) could represent a promising strategy for novel generation of microbial inoculants.

Impact of the fungal pathogen Fusarium oxysporum on the taxonomic and functional diversity of the common bean root microbiome.

BACKGROUND: Plants rely on their root microbiome as the first line of defense against soil-borne fungal pathogens. The abundance and activities of beneficial root microbial taxa at the time prior to and during fungal infection are key to their protective success. If and how invading fungal root pathogens can disrupt microbiome assembly and gene expression is still largely unknown. Here, we investigated the impact of the fungal pathogen Fusarium oxysporum (fox) on the assembly of rhizosphere and endosphere microbiomes of a fox-susceptible and fox-resistant common bean cultivar. RESULTS: Integration of 16S-amplicon, shotgun metagenome as well as metatranscriptome sequencing with community ecology analysis showed that fox infections significantly changed the composition and gene expression of the root microbiome in a cultivar-dependent manner. More specifically, fox infection led to increased microbial diversity, network complexity, and a higher proportion of the genera Flavobacterium, Bacillus, and Dyadobacter in the rhizosphere of the fox-resistant cultivar compared to the fox-susceptible cultivar. In the endosphere, root infection also led to changes in community assembly, with a higher abundance of the genera Sinorhizobium and Ensifer in the fox-resistant cultivar. Metagenome and metatranscriptome analyses further revealed the enrichment of terpene biosynthesis genes with a potential role in pathogen suppression in the fox-resistant cultivar upon fungal pathogen invasion. CONCLUSION: Collectively, these results revealed a cultivar-dependent enrichment of specific bacterial genera and the activation of putative disease-suppressive functions in the rhizosphere and endosphere microbiome of common bean under siege.