The fundamental role of pH in CH4 bioconversion into polyhydroxybutyrate in mixed methanotrophic cultures.

Climate change and plastic pollution are likely the most relevant challenges for the environment in the 21st century. Developing cost-effective technologies for the bioconversion of methane (CH4) into polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) could simultaneously mitigate CH4 emissions and boost the commercialization of biodegradable polymers. Despite the fact that the role of temperature, nitrogen deprivation, CH4:O2 ratio or micronutrients availability on the PHA accumulation capacity of methanotrophs has been carefully explored, there is still a need for optimization of the CH4-to-PHA bioconversion process prior to becoming a feasible platform in future biorefineries. In this study, the influence of different cultivation broth pH values (5.5, 7, 8.5 and 10) on bacterial biomass growth, CH4 bioconversion rate, PHA accumulation capacity and bacterial community structure was investigated in a stirred tank bioreactor under nitrogen deprivation conditions. Higher CH4 elimination rates were obtained at increasing pH, with a maximum value of 50.4 ± 2.7 g CH4·m-3·h-1 observed at pH 8.5. This was likely mediated by an increased ionic strength in the mineral medium, which enhanced the gas-liquid mass transfer. Interestingly, higher PHB accumulations were observed at decreasing pH, with the highest PHB contents recorded at a pH 5.5 (43.7 ± 3.4 %w·w-1). The strong selective pressure of low pH towards the growth of Type II methanotrophic bacteria could explain this finding. The genus Methylocystis increased its abundance from 34 % up to 85 and 90 % at pH 5.5 and 7, respectively. On the contrary, Methylocystis was less abundant in the community enriched at pH 8.5 (14 %). The accumulation of intracellular PHB as energy and carbon storage material allowed the maintenance of high CH4 biodegradation rates during 48 h after complete nitrogen deprivation. The results here obtained demonstrated for the first time a crucial and multifactorial role of pH on the bioconversion performance of CH4 into PHA.

Lesiones cutáneas reticulares: algoritmo clínico práctico basado en el color de la lesión para el abordaje inicial / Reticulate Skin Lesions: Practical Color-Based Algorithm for Initial Clinical Assessment

Las enfermedades dermatológicas que cursan con un patrón reticular son múltiples y variadas. Aunque dicho patrón particular de presentación morfológica muchas veces es muy distintivo, usualmente es poco discutido y estudiado en el contexto clínico. A menudo, estos patrones no se abordan como una categoría diagnóstica propia. Asimismo, las etiologías de este grupo de enfermedades son diversas, desde causas vasculares, infecciosas, tumorales, inflamatorias, metabólicas o genéticas. Además, pueden variar desde condiciones relativamente benignas hasta enfermedades graves que amenazan la vida. Este artículo tiene como objetivo discutir la enfermedad de la piel que se manifiesta con lesiones reticulares y se propone un algoritmo de diagnóstico clínico, basado en el color predominante de las lesiones y los principales hallazgos clínicos, para un abordaje práctico inicial (AU)

Reticular patterns are observed in a great variety of skin diseases. While these morphologic patterns are often highly distinctive, they are seldom discussed or studied in clinical contexts or recognized as a diagnostic category in their own right. Diseases presenting with reticulate skin lesions have multiple etiologies (tumors, infections, vascular disorders, inflammatory conditions, and metabolic or genetic alterations) and can range from relatively benign conditions to life-threatening ones. We review a selection of these diseases and propose a clinical diagnostic algorithm based on predominant coloring and clinical features to aid in their initial assessment (AU)

[Translated article] Reticulate Skin Lesions: Practical Color-Based Algorithm for Initial Clinical Assessment / Lesiones cutáneas reticulares: algoritmo clínico práctico basado en el color de la lesión para el abordaje inicial

Reticular patterns are observed in a great variety of skin diseases. While these morphologic patterns are often highly distinctive, they are seldom discussed or studied in clinical contexts or recognized as a diagnostic category in their own right. Diseases presenting with reticulate skin lesions have multiple etiologies (tumors, infections, vascular disorders, inflammatory conditions, and metabolic or genetic alterations) and can range from relatively benign conditions to life-threatening ones. We review a selection of these diseases and propose a clinical diagnostic algorithm based on predominant coloring and clinical features to aid in their initial assessment (AU)

Las enfermedades dermatológicas que cursan con un patrón reticular son múltiples y variadas. Aunque dicho patrón particular de presentación morfológica muchas veces es muy distintivo, usualmente es poco discutido y estudiado en el contexto clínico. A menudo, estos patrones no se abordan como una categoría diagnóstica propia. Asimismo, las etiologías de este grupo de enfermedades son diversas, desde causas vasculares, infecciosas, tumorales, inflamatorias, metabólicas o genéticas. Además, pueden variar desde condiciones relativamente benignas hasta enfermedades graves que amenazan la vida. Este artículo tiene como objetivo discutir la enfermedad de la piel que se manifiesta con lesiones reticulares y se propone un algoritmo de diagnóstico clínico, basado en el color predominante de las lesiones y los principales hallazgos clínicos, para un abordaje práctico inicial (AU)

Reticulate Skin Lesions: Practical Color-Based Algorithm for Initial Clinical Assessment. / Lesiones cutáneas reticulares: algoritmo clínico práctico basado en el color de la lesión para el abordaje inicial.

Reticular patterns are observed in a great variety of skin diseases. While these morphologic patterns are often highly distinctive, they are seldom discussed or studied in clinical contexts or recognized as a diagnostic category in their own right. Diseases presenting with reticulate skin lesions have multiple etiologies (tumors, infections, vascular disorders, inflammatory conditions, and metabolic or genetic alterations) and can range from relatively benign conditions to life-threatening ones. We review a selection of these diseases and propose a clinical diagnostic algorithm based on predominant coloring and clinical features to aid in their initial assessment.

[Translated article] Reticulate Skin Lesions: Practical Color-Based Algorithm for Initial Clinical Assessment.

Reticular patterns are observed in a great variety of skin diseases. While these morphologic patterns are often highly distinctive, they are seldom discussed or studied in clinical contexts or recognized as a diagnostic category in their own right. Diseases presenting with reticulate skin lesions have multiple etiologies (tumors, infections, vascular disorders, inflammatory conditions, and metabolic or genetic alterations) and can range from relatively benign conditions to life-threatening ones. We review a selection of these diseases and propose a clinical diagnostic algorithm based on predominant coloring and clinical features to aid in their initial assessment.

Estimulación cerebral profunda combinada del núcleo subtalámico y el globo pálido interno en la enfermedad de Parkinson / Combined subthalamic nucleus and globus pallidus internus deep brain stimulation in Parkinson’s disease

Introducción: La estimulación cerebral profunda (ECP) del núcleo subtalámico (NST) y el globo pálido interno (GPi) son los principales abordajes quirúrgicos en la enfermedad de Parkinson avanzada. La estimulación suele aplicarse de forma bilateral en la misma estructura cerebral. Sin embargo, cuando diferentes síntomas motores se presentan concomitantemente en el mismo paciente, la modulación simultánea de diferentes estructuras cerebrales puede ser una alternativa eficaz. Caso clínico: Presentamos un paciente con enfermedad de Parkinson avanzada en el que se realizó ECP combinada en NST y el GPi. La ECP del NST izquierdo controló de manera óptima la sintomatología del hemicuerpo derecho, mientras que las discinesias problemáticas que presentaba en el hemicuerpo izquierdo se redujeron con éxito mediante la estimulación del GPi derecho. Discusión. La estimulación combinada del NST/GPi puede considerarse un enfoque neuroquirúrgico adecuado cuando surge una sintomatología motora desafiante en pacientes con enfermedad de Parkinson avanzada.(AU)

Introduction: Subthalamic nucleus (STN) and globus pallidus internus (GPi) deep brain stimulation (DBS) are the main surgical approaches for advanced Parkinson’s disease. Stimulation is usually applied bilaterally in the same brain structure. However, when various motor symptoms concomitantly present in the same patient, simultaneous modulation of different brain structures may be a suitable alternative. Case report: We present a patient with advanced Parkinson’s disease with a combined DBS neurosurgery. Left STN DBS optimally controlled the off right hemibody symptomatology while left side troublesome dyskinesias were successfully relieved by right GPi stimulation. Discussion: Combined STN/GPi stimulation can be considered a suitable approach when challenging motor symptomatology arises in advanced Parkinson’s disease patients.(AU)

Comparación de la Concentración de Hipoclorito de Sodio en la Atención Dental entre Dentistas Generales y Especialistas en Endodoncia / Comparison of the concentration of sodium hypochlorite used in dental care of general dentists and specialists in endodontics

La vida útil de hipoclorito de sodio (NaOCl) es limitada, varios estudios señalan la posibilidad de discrepancias entre la concentración esperada y la concentración real en soluciones de NaOCl usadas como irrigantes endodónticos. El presente estudio investigó si existe alguna diferencia en la concentración usada por endodoncistas y dentistas generales. La solución de NaOCl es hasta la fecha, la solución de irrigación del canal radicular más utilizado, pero no existe un acuerdo general en cuanto a su concentración óptima, que varía desde 0,5 % a 5,25 %. Este estudio fue analítico experimental. El tamaño muestral fue por conveniencia. Los sujetos estudiados fueron especialistas en endodoncia y dentistas generales que se desempeñan tanto en la atención pública como privada, en la ciudad de Santiago de Chile. Participaron del estudio de manera voluntaria, para lo cual llenaron un consentimiento informado y completaron una encuesta previamente validada. Cada sujeto aportó una muestra de la solución de hipoclorito de sodio que utilizaba en su práctica clínica. Las muestras fueron recolectadas en recipientes plásticos oscuros y fueron almacenadas sin estar expuestas a la luz y refrigeradas hasta su análisis. Para el análisis de laboratorio se usó espectrofotometría, el análisis estadístico se emplearon los Test de Student y Fischer para medir si existían diferencias entre las concentraciones de hipoclorito de sodio utilizadas por endodoncistas y dentistas generales. (AU)

The shelf life of sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) is limited, several studies point out the possibility of discrepancies between the expected concentration and the actual concentration in NaOCl solutions used as endodontic irrigants. The present study investigated whether there is any difference in the concentration used by endodontists and general dentists. NaOCl solution is to date the most widely used root canal irrigation solution, but there is no general agreement as to its optimal concentration, which varies from 0.5% to 5.25%. This study was analytical experimental. The sample size was for convenience. The subjects studied were specialists in endodontics and general dentists who work in both public and private care, in the city of Santiago de Chile. They participated in the study voluntarily, for which they filled out an informed consent and completed a previously validated survey. Each subject provided a sample of the sodium hypochlorite solution used in their clinical practice. The samples were collected in dark plastic containers and were stored without being exposed to light and refrigerated until analysis. For the laboratory analysis, spectrophotometry was used, for statistical analysis the Student and Fischer tests were used to measure whether there were differences between the concentrations of sodium hypochlorite used by endodontists and general dentists. (AU)

Combined subthalamic nucleus and globus pallidus internus deep brain stimulation in Parkinson's disease. / Estimulación cerebral profunda combinada del núcleo subtalámico y el globo pálido interno en la enfermedad de Parkinson.

INTRODUCTION: Subthalamic nucleus (STN) and globus pallidus internus (GPi) deep brain stimulation (DBS) are the main surgical approaches for advanced Parkinson's disease. Stimulation is usually applied bilaterally in the same brain structure. However, when various motor symptoms concomitantly present in the same patient, simultaneous modulation of different brain structures may be a suitable alternative. CASE REPORT: We present a patient with advanced Parkinson's disease with a combined DBS neurosurgery. Left STN DBS optimally controlled the off right hemibody symptomatology while left side troublesome dyskinesias were successfully relieved by right GPi stimulation. DISCUSSION: Combined STN/GPi stimulation can be considered a suitable approach when challenging motor symptomatology arises in advanced Parkinson's disease patients.

TITLE: Estimulación cerebral profunda combinada del núcleo subtalámico y el globo pálido interno en la enfermedad de Parkinson.Introducción. La estimulación cerebral profunda (ECP) del núcleo subtalámico (NST) y el globo pálido interno (GPi) son los principales abordajes quirúrgicos en la enfermedad de Parkinson avanzada. La estimulación suele aplicarse de forma bilateral en la misma estructura cerebral. Sin embargo, cuando diferentes síntomas motores se presentan concomitantemente en el mismo paciente, la modulación simultánea de diferentes estructuras cerebrales puede ser una alternativa eficaz. Caso clínico. Presentamos un paciente con enfermedad de Parkinson avanzada en el que se realizó ECP combinada en NST y el GPi. La ECP del NST izquierdo controló de manera óptima la sintomatología del hemicuerpo derecho, mientras que las discinesias problemáticas que presentaba en el hemicuerpo izquierdo se redujeron con éxito mediante la estimulación del GPi derecho. Discusión. La estimulación combinada del NST/GPi puede considerarse un enfoque neuroquirúrgico adecuado cuando surge una sintomatología motora desafiante en pacientes con enfermedad de Parkinson avanzada.

[Antimicrobial stewardship program in an Intensive Care Unit: A retrospective observational analysis of the results 15 months after its implementation]. / Programa de optimización del uso de antimicrobianos en un Servicio de Medicina Intensiva: análisis retrospectivo observacional de los resultados 15 meses después de su implementación.

OBJECTIVE: We aim to evaluate the adherence rate to an Antimicrobial Stewardship Program (ASP) in an Intensive Care Unit (ICU), and to assess its effect on the use of antibiotics, quality indicators and clinical outcomes. METHODS: Retrospective description of the interventions proposed by the ASP. We compared antimicrobial use, quality and safety indicators in an ASP versus a non-ASP period. The study was performed in a polyvalent ICU of a medium-size University Hospital (600 beds). We studied patients admitted to the ICU for any cause during the ASP period, provided that a microbiological sample aiming to diagnose a potential infection has been drawn, or antibiotics have been started. We elaborated and registered of non-mandatory recommendations to improve antimicrobial prescription (audit and feedback structure) and its registry during the ASP period (15 months, October 2018-December 2019). We compared indicators in a period with ASP (April-June 2019) and without ASP (April-June 2018). RESULTS: We issued 241 recommendations on 117 patients, 67% of them classified as de-escalation type. The rate of adherence to the recommendations was high (96.3%). In the ASP period, the mean number of antibiotics per patient (3.3±4.1 vs 2.4±1.7, p=0.04) and the days of treatment (155 DOT/100 PD vs 94 DOT/100 PD, p <0.01) were reduced. The implementation of the ASP did not compromise patient safety or produce changes in clinical outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: The implementation of an ASP is widely accepted in the ICU, reducing the consumption of antimicrobials, without compromising patient safety.

Evaluación de la implantación de prácticas seguras con los medicamentos en los Servicios de Medicina Intensiva / Assessment of the implementation of safe medication practices in Intensive Medicine Units

Objetivo Conocer el grado de implantación de las prácticas seguras con los medicamentos en los Servicios de Medicina Intensiva e identificar oportunidades de mejora. Diseño Estudio descriptivo multicéntrico. Ámbito Servicios de Medicina Intensiva. Participantes/procedimiento Cuarenta Servicios de Medicina Intensiva que voluntariamente cumplimentaron el «Cuestionario de autoevaluación de la seguridad del uso de los medicamentos en los Servicios de Medicina Intensiva» entre marzo y septiembre del 2020. El cuestionario contiene 147 ítems de evaluación agrupados en 10 elementos clave. Variables principales de interés Puntuación media y porcentaje medio sobre el valor máximo posible en el cuestionario completo, en los elementos clave y en los ítems de evaluación. Resultados La puntuación media del cuestionario completo en los Servicios de Medicina Intensiva fue de 436,8 (49,2% del valor máximo posible). No se encontraron diferencias según dependencia funcional, tamaño del hospital y tipo de servicio. Los elementos clave referentes a la incorporación de farmacéuticos en estos servicios, así como a la competencia y la formación de los profesionales en prácticas de seguridad, mostraron los valores más bajos (31,2% y 33,2%, respectivamente). Otros tres elementos clave relativos a la accesibilidad a la información sobre los pacientes y los medicamentos; a la estandarización, el almacenamiento y la distribución de los medicamentos, y a los programas de calidad y gestión de riesgos mostraron porcentajes inferiores al 50%. Conclusiones Se han identificado numerosas prácticas seguras efectivas cuyo grado de implantación en los Servicios de Medicina Intensiva es bajo y que es preciso abordar para reducir los errores de medicación en el paciente crítico (AU)

Objective To assess the level of implementation of medication safety practices in Intensive Care Units (ICUs) and to identify opportunities for improvement. Design A descriptive multicenter study was carried out. Setting Intensive Care Units. Participants/procedure A total of 40 ICUs voluntarily completed the “Medication use-system safety self-assessment for Intensive Care Units” between March and September 2020. The survey comprised 147 items for evaluation grouped into 10 key elements. Main variables Calculation was made of the mean scores and mean percentages based on the maximum possible values for the overall survey, for the key elements and for each individual item for evaluation. Results The mean score of the overall questionnaire among the participating ICUs was 436.8 (49.2% of the maximum possible score). No differences were found according to functional dependence, size of the hospital or type of ICU. The key elements referred to the incorporation of clinical pharmacists in these units, as well as the competence and training of the professionals in safety practices yielded the lowest values (31.2% and 33.2%, respectively). Three other key elements related to accessibility to information about patients and medicines; to the standardization, storage and distribution of medicines; and to the quality and risk management programs, yielded percentages below 50%. Conclusions Numerous effective safety medication practices have been identified with a low level of implementation in ICUs. This situation must be addressed in order to reduce medication errors in critically ill patients (AU)

Analysis of the prognostic value of emergency blood tests in ischaemic stroke.

OBJECTIVES: This study aims to evaluate the prognostic value of emergency blood test results in patients with acute ischaemic stroke. METHODS: We evaluated 592 prospectively patients with neuroimaging-confirmed ischaemic stroke admitted to our stroke unit between 2015 and 2018. We gathered emergency blood test results and calculated the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and the neutrophil-to-platelet ratio (neutrophils × 1.000/platelets). The association between blood test results and functional prognosis (as measured with the modified Rankin Scale) and such complications as haemorrhagic transformation was evaluated by logistic regression analysis. The additional predictive value of blood test parameters was assessed with receiver operating characteristic curves and the net reclassification index. RESULTS: An neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio ≥ 3 at admission was associated with a two-fold increase in the risk of functional dependence at 3 months (OR: 2.24; 95% CI: 1.35-3.71) and haemorrhagic transformation (OR: 2.11; 95% CI: 1.09-4.05), while an neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio ≥ 3.86 resulted in an increase of 2.4 times in the risk of mortality at 3 months (OR: 2.41; 95% CI: 1.37-4.26) after adjusting for the traditional predictors of poor outcomes. Patients with neutrophil-to-platelet ratio ≥ 32 presented 3 times more risk of haemorrhagic transformation (OR: 3.17; 95% CI: 1.70-5.92) and mortality at 3 months (OR: 3.07; 95% CI: 1.69-5.57). Adding these laboratory parameters to standard clinical-radiological models significantly improved discrimination and prognostic accuracy. CONCLUSIONS: Basic blood test parameters provide important prognostic information for stroke patients and should therefore be analysed in combination with standard clinical and radiological parameters to optimise ischaemic stroke management.

Assessment of the implementation of safe medication practices in Intensive Medicine Units.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the level of implementation of medication safety practices in Intensive Care Units (ICUs) and to identify opportunities for improvement. DESIGN: A descriptive multicenter study was carried out. SETTING: Intensive Care Units. PARTICIPANTS/PROCEDURE: A total of 40 ICUs voluntarily completed the "Medication use-system safety self-assessment for Intensive Care Units" between March and September 2020. The survey comprised 147 items for evaluation grouped into 10 key elements. MAIN VARIABLES: Calculation was made of the mean scores and mean percentages based on the maximum possible values for the overall survey, referred to the key elements and to each individual item for evaluation. RESULTS: The mean score of the overall questionnaire among the participating ICUs was 436.8 (49.2% of the maximum possible score). No differences were found according to functional dependence, size of the hospital or type of ICU. The key elements referred to the incorporation of clinical pharmacists in these Units, as well as the competence and training of the professionals in safety practices yielded the lowest values (31.2% and 33.2%, respectively). Three other key elements related to accessibility to information about patients and medicines; to the standardization, storage and distribution of medicines; and to the quality and risk management programs, yielded percentages <50%. CONCLUSIONS: Numerous effective safety medication practices have been identified with a low level of implementation in ICUs. This situation must be addressed in order to reduce medication errors in critically ill patients.

Sintonizando con otro: la teoría polivagal y el proceso de psicoterapia / Tuning into another: the polivagal theory and the psychotherapy process

RESUMEN: El presente trabajo tiene como principal objetivo presentar la teoría polivagal como un modelo bio-comportamental del comportamiento emocional e interpersonal, con la finalidad de identificar ámbitos de contribución de la teoría al estudio de la psicoterapia en torno al estatus clínico de los consultantes, el proceso terapéutico y el cambio. La revisión del modelo neurofisiológico muestra una reconceptualización las relaciones recíprocas entre sistema nervioso autónomo y la emocionalidad en el contexto interpersonal, lo cual permite distinguir condiciones de activación normal y patológica de las estrategias comportamentales defensivas (lucha/huida e inmovilización), así como su inhibición a través del sistema de enganche prosocial. Las investigaciones revisadas muestran evidencia a favor de las hipótesis derivadas del modelo tanto en población normal como clínica. De particular interés clínico resulta el sistema de enganche prosocial, pues habilita la emergencia del comportamiento interpersonal confiable, lo cual resulta ser un elemento pivotal para la psicoterapia por su potencial valor diagnóstico, así como sus efectos sobre el desarrollo y consolidación de la relación terapéutica y los resultados benéficos en el consultante. Finalmente, es posible identificar un cuerpo emergente de estudios de psicoterapia que evalúan la actividad del sistema de enganche prosocial mediante la variabilidad de la frecuencia cardiaca de alta frecuencia, vinculándolo tanto al proceso (p. ej., alianza de trabajo) como al resultado (p. ej., nivel de síntomas), evidenciando el valor de profundizar en esta línea interdisciplinaria de investigación y, eventualmente, incorporar estas mediciones al arsenal clínico de evaluación.

ABSTRACT The present work presents the polivagal theory as a bio-behavioral model of emotional and interpersonal behavior, aiming to identify its theoretical contributions to the study of psychotherapy regarding client's clinical status, therapeutic process as well as change. A review of the model shows a reconceptualization of interactions among autononomic nervous system and emotionality within interpersonal context, allowing for identifying normal and pathological activation of defensive behavioral strategies (figh-or-flight and immobilization), as well as their inhibition through the social engagement system. Empirical research shows evidence in favor of hypotheses derived from the model in normal and clinical populations. In clinical contexts, the social engagement system is of particular interest as it allows the emergence of interpersonal trustworthy behavior, being a cornerstone in psychotherapy due to its potential diagnostic value for clients, the development of the therapeutic relationships, as well as beneficial outcomes. Lastly, a nascent body of psychotherapy studies assessing the social engagement system (through high frequency heart rate variability-) and its relation with the therapeutic process (i.e. working alliance) and outcomes (i.e. symptom level) are identified. The evidence supports the value of further developing this interdisciplinary line of research and, eventually, incorporating these measurements into the clinical assessment arsenal.

Photo-acclimatory thresholds anticipate sudden shifts in seagrass ecosystem state under reduced light conditions.

Seagrass ecosystems usually respond in a nonlinear fashion to increasing pressures and environmental changes. Feedback mechanisms operating at the ecosystem level and involving multiple interactions among the seagrass meadow, its associated community and the physical environment are known to play a major role in such nonlinear responses. Phenotypic plasticity may also be important for buffering these ecological thresholds (i.e., regime shifts) as many physiological processes show nonlinear responses to gradual environmental changes, conferring the appearance of resistance before the effects at the organism and population levels are visible. However, the potential involvement of plant plasticity in driving catastrophic shifts in seagrass ecosystems has not yet been assessed. In this study, we conducted a manipulative 6-month light-gradient experiment in the field to capture nonlinearities of the physiological and population responses of the seagrass Cymodocea nodosa to gradual light reduction. The aim was to explore if and how the photo-acclimatory responses of shaded plants are translated to the population level and, hence, to the ecosystem level. Results showed that the seagrass population was rather stable under increasing shading levels through the activation of multilevel photo-acclimative responses, which are initiated with light reduction and modulated in proportion to shading intensity. The activation of photo-physiological and metabolic compensatory responses allowed shaded plants to sustain nearly constant plant productivity (metabolic carbon balance) along a range of shading levels before losing linearity and starting to decline. The species then activated plant- and meadow-scale photo-acclimative responses and drew on its energy reserves (rhizome carbohydrates) to confer additional population resilience. However, when the integration of all these buffering mechanisms failed to counterbalance the effects of extreme light limitation, the population collapsed, giving place to a phase shift from vegetated to bare sediments with catastrophic ecosystem outcomes. Our findings evidence that ecological thresholds in seagrass ecosystems under light limitation can be explained by the role of species' compensatory responses in modulating population-level responses. The thresholds of these plastic responses anticipate the sudden loss of seagrass meadows with the potential to be used as early warning indicators signalling the imminent collapse of the ecosystem, which is of great value for the real-world management of seagrass ecosystems.

Mix-and-match: an improved, fast and accessible protocol for hypocotyl micrografting of Arabidopsis seedlings with systemic ACC responses as a case study.

BACKGROUND: Grafting is a technique widely used in horticulture that also has been applied in agriculture. In plant physiology, grafting facilitates the elucidation of mechanisms underlying growth and developmental processes, through the construction of chimeric plants with organs of different genotypes. Despite its small size, the model species Arabidopsis thaliana is very amenable for grafting, which can be useful to investigate transport of nutrients, amino acids or secondary metabolites between different tissues, or to investigate developmental processes depending on root-to-shoot communication, such as shoot branching, root and shoot plasticity upon shade avoidance, or disease resistance. Nevertheless, grafting protocols are usually technically challenging and training is required to achieve a reasonable success rate. Additionally, specialized tools and equipment are often needed, such as chips to accommodate the grafted plantlets or collars to maintain the contact between root and shoot. RESULTS: In this methodology paper, we provide a fast, easy, accessible, and specialized equipment-free protocol that enables high success ratios. Critical steps and notes are detailed, easing the implementation of the procedure for non-trained researchers. An example of the protocol application by three independent non-trained researchers shows that this method allows to achieve a 90-100% of grafting efficiency after 6 days post-grafting recovery. In addition, the grafting of Col-0 with the acs8x mutant, depleted in 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid (ACC), the biosynthetic precursor of the phytohormone ethylene, provides an example of the application of this optimized protocol, showing the suitability of the process to study long-distance transport processes. CONCLUSIONS: We present an optimized protocol for hypocotyl grafting of 4-day-old Arabidopsis thaliana seedlings. The combination of conditions yields a grafting success of 90-100% and provides an easy and accessible methodology, reducing the time frame, and without the necessity of acquiring specialized equipment. The presented protocol is simple, fast and highly efficient, easing the inclusion of hypocotyl grafting assays in any research project. In addition, the description of the protocol is detailed to a level ensuring that even non-trained researchers, are sufficiently prepared to adopt the grafting methodology.

Efectos adversos y complicaciones de la infusión intestinal continua de levodopa-carbidopa en una cohorte de pacientes con enfermedad de Parkinson de un hospital terciario / Adverse effects and complications of continuous intestinal infusion of levodopa-carbidopa in a cohort of patients with Parkinsons disease in a tertiary hospital

Introducción: La infusión intestinal continua de levodopa/carbidopa (IICLC) es un tratamiento de segunda línea indicado en fases avanzadas de la enfermedad de Parkinson (EP). Para su implantación se debe realizar una gastrostomía endoscópica percutánea. Objetivos: El objetivo principal ha sido describir la frecuencia y las características de los efectos secundarios asociados a este tratamiento. Como objetivo secundario se han analizado las características epidemiológicas y clínicas de pacientes afectos de EP que han recibido o reciben tratamiento con IICLC. Pacientes y métodos: Estudio descriptivo, unicéntrico y retrospectivo para una muestra consecutiva de pacientes con EP tratados con IICLC desde principios de 2006 hasta finales de agosto de 2021. Resultados: Se han analizado 81 planificaciones. El éxito del tratamiento (duración mayor de 12 meses) se alcanzó en el 78,1% (n = 50) de los pacientes en los que se disponía de ese período de seguimiento. La duración media del tratamiento fue de 35 meses. El 58,6% de los pacientes presentó algún tipo de complicación. Se notificaron 43 complicaciones leves y 16 complicaciones graves. Conclusión: La constitución de un equipo multidisciplinar experimentado es fundamental para garantizar un manejo y seguimiento adecuado de estos pacientes.(AU)

Introduction: Continuous intestinal infusion of levodopa/carbidopa is a second-line treatment indicated in advanced stages of Parkinson’s disease (PD). For its implantation, a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy must be performed. Objectives: The main objective has been to describe the frequency and characteristics of the side effects associated with this treatment. As a secondary objective, we have analyzed the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of the PD patients who have received this treatment in our hospital. Patients and methods: Descriptive, single-center, retrospective study for a consecutive sample of PD patients treated with Continuous intestinal infusion of Levodopa/Carbidopa from the beginning of 2006 to the end of August 2021. Results: 81 treatment planifications have been analyzed. Treatment success (duration greater than 12 months) was achieved in 78.1% (n = 50) of the patients in whom this follow-up period was available. The median duration of treatment was 35 months. 58.6% of the patients presented some type of complication. A total of 43 minor complications and 16 serious adverse events were reported. Conclusion: The constitution of an experienced multidisciplinary team is essential to guarantee the adequate management and follow-up of these patients.(AU)

Tratamiento con inhibidores de la bomba de protones. ¿Realmente lo necesita el paciente? / Proton-pump inhibitors treatment. Does your patient really need it?

Introducción: Los inhibidores de la bomba de protones (IBP) son fármacos utilizados frecuentemente para el manejo de diferentes enfermedades gastrointestinales. Aunque sus indicaciones y dosis están bien establecidas, se han comunicado elevadas tasas de maluso. Métodos: Estudio observacional transversal realizado en un servicio de urgencias de un hospital terciario. Pacientes adultos que acudían por distintas patologías fueron invitados a participar. Se evaluó la correcta indicación del IBP, además de su dosis, duración del tratamiento y facultativo prescriptor. Resultados: Se incluyeron 300 pacientes. La indicación se consideró correcta en 142 pacientes (47,3%), siendo la indicación más frecuente la profilaxis de enteropatía inducida por AINE/AAS (n=95; 31,7%). La «gastroprotección» en paciente polimedicados, sin fármacos gastroerosivos fue la principal indicación inadecuada (n=82; 27,3%) seguida de la profilaxis innecesaria en pacientes menores de 60 años tratados en monoterapia con un fármaco gastroerosivo. La mediana del tiempo de prescripción fue de 31 meses (RIC: 9-72) con un intervalo de 1-360 meses. El tiempo de prescripción era inferior en aquellos con indicación correcta (42,3 vs. 59,6 meses, p=0,02). El médico de atención primaria era el prescriptor más frecuente (n=165; 55%), seguido del gastroenterólogo (n=38; 12,7%), sin encontrar diferencias significativas en cuanto a la adecuación de la prescripción. Conclusiones: Estudios como el presente alertan de la persistencia de unas elevadas sobreutilización y maluso de los IBP. La desprescripción, cuando el IBP no está indicado, puede ayudar a controlar el gasto sanitario innecesario y a evitar iatrogenia (AU)

Introduction: Proton-pump inhibitors (PPI) are frequently prescribed for wide gastrointestinal disorders. The indications are well established, although a high rate of misuse has been reported. Methods: Observation cross-sectional study conducted a tertiary hospital. Adult patients who attended the emergency department were eligible. The appropriate indication was evaluated. Also, the prescription period, dosage and the prescribing clinician were reviewed. Results: 300 patients were included. The indication was adequate in 142 patients (47.3%). The main indication was the primary prophylaxis for NSAIDs/ASA-induced enteropathy (n=95 patients, 31.7%). Polypharmacy was the main misuse indication (n=82 patients, 27.3%). The median prescription duration was 31 months (IQR 9-72), ranging from one month to 360 months. The duration was lower in those with correct indication (42.3 vs 59.6 months, P=.02). The primary care physician was the main responsible for prescription (n=165 patients, 55%), followed by gastroenterologist (n=38 patients, 12.7%) without significant differences in appropriateness by speciality. Conclusions: Studies like this raise awareness about the PPI overuse and misuse. Deprescribing should be considered as essential to reduce iatrogenic risk and redundant health expenditure (AU)

[Adverse effects and complications of continuous intestinal infusion of levodopa-carbidopa in a cohort of patients with Parkinson's disease in a tertiary hospital]. / Efectos adversos y complicaciones de la infusión intestinal continua de levodopa-carbidopa en una cohorte de pacientes con enfermedad de Parkinson de un hospital terciario.

INTRODUCTION: Continuous intestinal infusion of levodopa/carbidopa is a second-line treatment indicated in advanced stages of Parkinson's disease (PD). For its implantation, a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy must be performed. OBJECTIVES: The main objective has been to describe the frequency and characteristics of the side effects associated with this treatment. As a secondary objective, we have analyzed the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of the PD patients who have received this treatment in our hospital. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Descriptive, single-center, retrospective study for a consecutive sample of PD patients treated with Continuous intestinal infusion of Levodopa/Carbidopa from the beginning of 2006 to the end of August 2021. RESULTS: 81 treatment planifications have been analyzed. Treatment success (duration greater than 12 months) was achieved in 78.1% (n = 50) of the patients in whom this follow-up period was available. The median duration of treatment was 35 months. 58.6% of the patients presented some type of complication. A total of 43 minor complications and 16 serious adverse events were reported. CONCLUSION: The constitution of an experienced multidisciplinary team is essential to guarantee the adequate management and follow-up of these patients.

TITLE: Efectos adversos y complicaciones de la infusión intestinal continua de levodopa-carbidopa en una cohorte de pacientes con enfermedad de Parkinson de un hospital terciario.Introducción. La infusión intestinal continua de levodopa/carbidopa (IICLC) es un tratamiento de segunda línea indicado en fases avanzadas de la enfermedad de Parkinson (EP). Para su implantación se debe realizar una gastrostomía endoscópica percutánea. Objetivos. El objetivo principal ha sido describir la frecuencia y las características de los efectos secundarios asociados a este tratamiento. Como objetivo secundario se han analizado las características epidemiológicas y clínicas de pacientes afectos de EP que han recibido o reciben tratamiento con IICLC. Pacientes y métodos. Estudio descriptivo, unicéntrico y retrospectivo para una muestra consecutiva de pacientes con EP tratados con IICLC desde principios de 2006 hasta finales de agosto de 2021. Resultados. Se han analizado 81 planificaciones. El éxito del tratamiento (duración mayor de 12 meses) se alcanzó en el 78,1% (n = 50) de los pacientes en los que se disponía de ese período de seguimiento. La duración media del tratamiento fue de 35 meses. El 58,6% de los pacientes presentó algún tipo de complicación. Se notificaron 43 complicaciones leves y 16 complicaciones graves. Conclusión. La constitución de un equipo multidisciplinar experimentado es fundamental para garantizar un manejo y seguimiento adecuado de estos pacientes.