Sustainable cultivation of melon landraces: Effects of grafting on the accumulation of flavor-related compounds

Melon landraces are highly appreciated by consumers who pay price premiums to compensate for lower yields, enabling on-farm conservation. However, they are highly susceptible to soilborne diseases. This study analyses the impact of Cucurbita and Cucumis rootstocks on the accumulation of flavor-related metabolites in Spanish landraces of the Ibericus melon group, as a strategy to promote their sustainable cultivation. Scion genotype was the main factor conditioning the accumulation of sugars and acids both under standard and saline organic farming conditions. The effects of grafting on organic acid accumulation were negligible, while the effects on sugar content were significant. The latter effects were dependent on specific scion-rootstock combinations, though wild Cucumis (e.g. Fian) rootstocks represent an alternative that should be further studied. The effect on the accumulation of volatiles was limited, and again depended on specific scion-rootstock combinations. The rootstock effect even differed between populations of the same landrace.

Syphilis, human immunodeficiency virus, herpes genital and hepatitis B in a women's prison in Cochabamba, Bolivia: prevalence and risk factors

OBJECTIVE

To determine the prevalence and factors associated with syphilis, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B (HBV) and herpes type 2 (HSV2) among women in the prison of San Sebastian in Cochabamba (Bolivia).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We carried out a cross-sectional study including a standardized questionnaire to assess socio-demographics characteristics and risk factors (sexual practices and exposure to blood); and serological tests for syphilis, HSV2, VIH, and HBV. We performed bivariate and multivariate analyses to test the associations between variables of interest and infections.

RESULTS

A total of 219 out of 220 prisoners (99.5%) participated in the study. For syphilis, 12.8% of participants had both reactive tests (RPR+/TPPA+). The prevalence of HSV2 and VIH was 62.6% and 1.4%, respectively. Anti-HBc, indicating a resolved or chronic HBV, was positive in 11.9% of participants and 0.5% had active HBV (HBsAg positive). A low level of education was associated with syphilis, HSV2 and HBV. Having occasional sexual partners was associated with syphilis and HSV2. Being over 36 years old and having more than 3 children were associated with HBV. The number of sexual partners, history of prostitution and rape, having sexual intercourses in prison and detention time were not associated with any of these infections.

DISCUSSION

The prevalence of syphilis, HIV, HSV2 and HBV was higher in this vulnerable female population than in the general population in Bolivia. Control measures in detention are needed to limit the spread of these infections both in prisons and in the community.