Deciphering Cognitive Impairments in Huntington's Disease: A Comparative Study of Stroop Test Variations.

Background: Huntington's disease (HD) is a neurodegenerative disorder marked by cognitive impairment, movement abnormalities, and behavioral disturbances. The Stroop Color Word Test (SCWT) is a widely used tool to detect cognitive decline in HD. Variations in SCWT formats-horizontal (original) and vertical (Golden)-may influence performance, given HD's impact on cognitive and oculomotor abilities. Objective: This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of the horizontal and Golden vertical SCWT formats in detecting cognitive decline in HD, and to determine how performance may have been influenced by eye movement abnormalities. Methods: Forty-five participants with genetically confirmed HD were recruited. Both SCWT formats were administered to each participant in a counterbalanced fashion. Individual performance of all three sections on each format was standardized across 2 different norms. Raw and normed scores on each variation were compared and correlated with eye movement ratings on the Unified Huntington's Disease Rating Scale. Results: The Golden variation elicited significantly slower responses, particularly in the Word Reading section, across two benchmark norms. Statistical analysis revealed significant performance differences between the two formats. Correlations between vertical eye movement ratings and performance on the Golden SCWT were highly significant, highlighting the impact of oculomotor coordination on cognitive assessments in HD. Conclusion: This study underscores the importance of considering test format in cognitive assessments for HD. The Golden vertical SCWT demonstrates increased sensitivity in detecting deficits in HD, possibly linked to vertical saccade abnormalities. These insights are important for improving the sensitivity of cognitive assessments and monitoring disease progression in HD research and clinical practice.

"In-situ" formation of elastin-like recombinamer hydrogels with tunable viscoelasticity through efficient one-pot process.

Despite the remarkable progress in the generation of recombinant elastin-like (ELR) hydrogels, further improvements are still required to enhance and control their viscoelasticity, as well as limit the use of expensive chemical reagents, time-consuming processes and several purification steps. To alleviate this issue, the reactivity of carboxylic groups from glutamic (E) acid distributed along the hydrophilic block of an amphiphilic ELR (coded as E50I60) with amine groups has been studied through a one-pot amidation reaction in aqueous solutions, for the first time. By means of this approach, immediate conjugation of E50I60 with molecules containing amine groups has been performed with a high yield, as demonstrated by the 1H NMR and MALDI-TOF spectroscopies. This has resulted in the preparation of viscoelastic irreversible hydrogels through the "in-situ" cross-linking of E50I60 with another ELR (coded as VKV24) containing amine groups from lysines (K). The rheology analysis demonstrated that the gelation process takes place following a dual mechanism dependent on the ELR concentration: physical cross-linking of I60 block through the hydrophobic interactions, and covalent cross-linking of E50I60 with VKV24 through the amidation reaction. While the chemical network formed between the hydrophilic E50 block and VKV24 ELR preserves the elasticity of ELR hydrogels, the self-assembly of the I60 block through the hydrophobic interactions provides a tunable physical network. The presented investigation serves as a basis for generating ELR hydrogels with tunable viscoelastic properties promising for tissue regeneration, through an ''in-situ", rapid, scalable, economically and feasible one-pot method.

LASSI-L detects early cognitive changes in pre-motor manifest Huntington's disease: a replication and validation study.

Background and objectives: Cognitive decline is an important early sign in pre-motor manifest Huntington's disease (preHD) and is characterized by deficits across multiple domains including executive function, psychomotor processing speed, and memory retrieval. Prior work suggested that the Loewenstein-Acevedo Scale for Semantic Interference and Learning (LASSI-L)-a verbal learning task that simultaneously targets these domains - could capture early cognitive changes in preHD. The current study aimed to replicate, validate and further analyze the LASSI-L in preHD using larger datasets. Methods: LASSI-L was administered to 50 participants (25 preHD and 25 Healthy Controls) matched for age, education, and sex in a longitudinal study of disease progression and compared to performance on MMSE, Trail A & B, SCWT, SDMT, Semantic Fluency (Animals), and CVLT-II. Performance was then compared to a separate age-education matched-cohort of 25 preHD participants. Receiver operating curve (ROC) and practice effects (12 month interval) were investigated. Group comparisons were repeated using a preHD subgroup restricted to participants predicted to be far from diagnosis (Far subgroup), based on CAG-Age-Product scaled (CAPs) score. Construct validity was assessed through correlations with previously established measures of subcortical atrophy. Results: PreHD performance on all sections of the LASSI-L was significantly different from controls. The proactive semantic interference section (PSI) was sensitive (p = 0.0001, d = 1.548), similar across preHD datasets (p = 1.0), reliable on test-retest over 12 months (spearman rho = 0.88; p = <0.00001) and associated with an excellent area under ROC (AUROC) of 0.855. In the preHD Far subgroup comparison, PSI was the only cognitive assessment to survive FDR < 0.05 (p = 0.03). The number of intrusions on PSI was negatively correlated with caudate volume. Discussion: The LASSI-L is a sensitive, reliable, efficient tool for detecting cognitive decline in preHD. By using a unique verbal learning test paradigm that simultaneously targets executive function, processing speed and memory retrieval, the LASSI-L outperforms many other established tests and captures early signs of cognitive impairment. With further longitudinal validation, the LASSI-L could prove to be a useful biomarker for clinical research in preHD.

Prevalence of neurocognitive disorder in Huntington's disease using the Enroll-HD dataset.

Background: Cognitive decline in Huntington's disease (HD) begins early in the disease course, however the reported prevalence and severity of cognitive impairment varies based on diagnostic approach. A Movement Disorders Society Task Force recently endorsed the use of standardized DSM-5-based criteria to diagnose neurocognitive disorder (NCD) in Huntington's disease. Objectives: To determine the prevalence and severity of cognitive impairment across different stages of HD by applying NCD criteria (mild and major) to participant data from the Enroll-HD database. Methods: Enroll-HD participants were triaged into either premanifest (preHD), manifest or control groups. PreHD was further dichotomized into preHD near or preHD far based on predicted time to diagnosis using the scaled CAG-age product score (CAPs). Embedded cognitive performance and functional independence measures were used to determine prevalence of NCD (mild and major) for all groups. Results: Prevalence of NCD-mild was 25.2%-38.4% for manifest HD, 22.8%-47.3% for preHD near, 11.5%-25.1% for preHD far, and 8.8%-19.1% for controls. Prevalence of NCD-major was 21.1%-57.7% for manifest HD, 0.5%-16.3% for preHD near, 0.0%-4.5% for preHD far, and 0.0%-3.0% for controls. Conclusion: The prevalence of NCD in HD is elevated in preHD and demonstrates a sharp rise prior to diagnosis. In manifest HD, the vast majority of participants meet criteria for NCD. These findings are important for optimizing clinical care and/or anticipating the need for supportive services.

Caracterización clínica-epidemiológica de quiste de colédoco en la población infantil atendida en el Hospital Materno Infantil

Objetivo: Realizar caracterización clínica-epidemiológica de quiste de colédoco en la población infantil atendida en el Hospital Materno Infantil. Material y Método: Estudio transversal, retrospectivo, descriptivo. La población del estudio consistió en los expedientes con diagnóstico de quiste de colédoco (QC) en el servicio de cirugía pediátrica. Criterios de inclusión: desde el nacimiento hasta los 18 años, operados en este hospital, diagnóstico clínico e imagenológico. Análisis estadístico: base de datos Epi Info.12.0, usando medidas de frecuencia, como la media y varianza. Resultados: Un total de 12 pacientes, la relación entre mujer hombre fue de 3:1, con predominio en mujeres. El grupo etario con mayor frecuencia fue el preescolar con 41,7%. El síntoma más frecuente fue el dolor abdominal con 83,3%; el tipo de QC más frecuente fue el tipo I con 75%, todos fueron resecados y la reconstitución de tránsito más utilizada fue la hepaticoyeyuno anastomosis en Y de Roux (HYYR) con 83,3%. Discusión: El grupo etario, el sexo y el tipo de QC en este estudio, coincide con la literatura citada. El ultrasonido puede ser suficiente para el diagnóstico de QC, la colangiopancreatografia por resonancia magnética permite identificar el subtipo de quiste y planificar la intervención quirúrgica. Conclusión: en nuestro hospital hay poca experiencia en la realización de hepaticoduodeno anastomosis (HD) y ninguna experiencia en la realización de HD y HYYR laparoscópicas, por lo cual, se plantea la necesidad de mejorar las opciones terapéuticas según estándares internaciones. Además, tomando este estudio como base, se deben realizar investigaciones posteriores con mayor complejidad metodológica.

Objective: To perform a clinical-epidemiological characterization of choledochal cyst in the pediatric population attended at the Hospital Materno Infantil. Material and Methods: Cross-sectional, retrospective, descriptive study. The study population consisted of records with a diagnosis of choledochal cyst (CC) in the pediatric surgery service. Inclusion criteria: from birth to 18 years of age, operated in this hospital, clinical and imaging diagnosis. Statistical analysis: Epi Info.12.0 database, using frequency measures, such as mean and variance. Results: A total of 12 patients, female to male ratio was 3:1, with female predominance. The age group with the highest frequency was preschool with 41.7%. The most frequent symptom was abdominal pain with 83.3%, the most frequent type of CC was type I with 75%, all of them were resected and the most frequent reconstruction was Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy (HJ) with 83.3%. Discussion: The age group, sex and type of CC in this study coincides with the literature cited. Ultrasound may be sufficient for the diagnosis of CC, magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography allows identification of the subtype of cyst and planning of surgical intervention. Conclusion: In our hospital there is little experience in performing hepaticoduodenostomy (HD) and no experience in performing laparoscopic HD and HJ, therefore, there is a need to improve the therapeutic options according to international standards. Furthermore, taking this study as a basis, further research with greater methodological complexity should be carried out.

Using the LASSI-L to Detect Robust Interference Effects in Premanifest Huntington Disease.

BACKGROUND: Diagnosis of manifest Huntington disease (HD) is based primarily on motor symptoms, but premanifest HD (preHD) is often associated with subtle cognitive decline. The Loewenstein-Acevedo Scales for Semantic Interference and Learning (LASSI-L) is a validated verbal learning test that can be used to detect early cognitive decline. OBJECTIVE: To determine the utility of the LASSI-L for detecting early cognitive decline in individuals with preHD and to compare the results of the LASSI-L with those of commonly used neuropsychological tests in HD. METHOD: We administered the LASSI-L to 13 individuals with preHD and 13 healthy controls matched for age, sex, and education as part of a longitudinal study of disease progression. For comparison purposes, we administered the Mini-Mental State Examination; Stroop Color and Word Test; Symbol Digit Modalities Test; Trail-Making Test, Parts A and B; and category fluency (animals) task. RESULTS: Five of the seven sections on the LASSI-L captured group differences: Proactive Semantic Interference (PSI; P < 0.001), Failure to Recover From PSI ( P = 0.038), Retroactive Semantic Interference (RSI; P = 0.013), Delayed Recall ( P < 0.001), and B1 Cued Recall Intrusions ( P = 0.036). Using a false discovery rate of <0.05, PSI, RSI, and Delayed Recall remained significant. CONCLUSION: The LASSI-L is a sensitive instrument for detecting early interference effects in individuals with preHD that outperforms commonly used neuropsychological tests. The LASSI-L could be a useful addition to clinical and research protocols involving individuals with preHD.

Sugarcane cultivation practices modulate rhizosphere microbial community composition and structure.

Sugarcane (Saccharum spp.) represents a crop of great economic importance, remarkably relevant in the food industry and energy supply chains from renewable sources. However, its conventional cultivation involves the intensive use of fertilizers, pesticides, and other agrochemical agents whose detrimental effects on the environment are notorious. Alternative systems, such as organic farming, have been presented as an environmentally friendly way of production. Still, the outcomes of different cropping systems on the microbiota associated with sugarcane-whose role in its health and growth is crucial-remain underexplored. Thus, we studied the rhizospheric microbiota of two adjacent sugarcane fields, which differ in terms of the type of farming system. For this, we used the sequencing of taxonomic markers of prokaryotes (gene 16S rRNA, subregions V3-V4) and fungi (Internal transcribed spacer 2) and evaluated the changes caused by the systems. Our results show a well-conserved microbiota composition among farming systems in the highest taxonomic ranks, such as phylum, class, and order. Also, both systems showed very similar alpha diversity indices and shared core taxa with growth-promoting capacities, such as bacteria from the Bacillus and Bradyrhizobium genera and the fungal genus Trichoderma. However, the composition at more specific levels denotes differences, such as the separation of the samples concerning beta diversity and the identification of 74 differentially abundant taxa between the systems. Of these, 60 were fungal taxa, indicating that this microbiota quota is more susceptible to changes caused by farming systems. The analysis of co-occurrence networks also showed the formation of peripheral sub-networks associated with the treatments-especially in fungi-and the presence of keystone taxa in terms of their ability to mediate relationships between other members of microbial communities. Considering that both crop fields used the same cultivar and had almost identical soil properties, we conclude that the observed findings are effects of the activities intrinsic to each system and can contribute to a better understanding of the effects of farming practices on the plant microbiome.

Spontaneous Enterocutaneous Fistula.

Spontaneous scrotal enterocutaneous fistulas (ECFs) are rare and more common in countries with poor access to medical care. Our patients represent the first two reported adult cases of scrotal ECFs in the United States. Both patients were 83-year-old males who presented from assisted living facilities with past medical histories of prostate cancer. The first patient had an ECF from his cecum to right scrotum and the second patient had an ECF from his sigmoid colon to left scrotum. These are the first recorded cases describing spontaneous scrotal ECFs in adults in the United States. They are also the seventh and eighth reported cases worldwide. Both patients had delayed presentations of their incarcerated hernias because their scrotal ECFs decompressed their incarcerated bowels and attenuated the development of obstructive symptoms. Each patient underwent a successful orchiectomy by urology and bowel resection with ligation of their scrotal ECFs, and herniorrhaphy by general surgery.

Short and ultra-short (<6-mm) locking-taper implants supporting single crowns in posterior areas (part II): A 5-year retrospective study on periodontally healthy patients and patients with a history of periodontitis.

BACKGROUND: Short and ultra-short implants implants supporting single crowns seem to demonstrate high percentages of survival and stable marginal bone levels at a mid-term follow-up. Nevertheless, insurgence of peri-implant complications still represents a critical issue, especially for patients with history of periodontitis. PURPOSE: The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate implant survival, marginal bone loss and peri-implant complications in 333 short and ultra-short implants, placed in periodontally healthy patients and patients with a history of periodontitis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Implants were placed in the maxillary and mandibular posterior regions of 142 patients with (PP) and without (NPP) a history of periodontitis. Clinical and radiographic examinations were performed at 5-year recall appointments. RESULTS: Implants respectively placed in PP and NPP were: 35.68% and 42.50% in 8.0 mm-length group, 33.33% and 36.67% in 6.0 mm-length group, and 30.99% and 20.83% in 5.0 mm-length group. Implant-based survival after 5 years of follow-up was 95.77% for PP and 96.67% for NPP (p = 0.77). Regarding crestal bone level variations, average crestal bone loss was statistically different (p = 0.04) among PP (0.74 mm) and NPP (0.61 mm). Implants presenting signs of mucositis were 6.86% in PP and 7.76% in NPP (p = 0.76). Setting the threshold for excessive bone loss at 1 mm after 60 months, peri-implantitis prevalence was 7.84% in PP and 2.59% in NPP (p = 0.08). Overall implant success was 92.16% and 97.41%, respectively, for PP and NPP. CONCLUSIONS: Under strict maintenance program, five-year outcomes suggest that short and ultra-short locking-taper implants can be successfully restored with single crowns in the posterior jaws both in PP and NPP.

An Enhanced Recovery After Surgery Protocol Decreases the Use of Narcotics in Infrainguinal Bypass Patients.

OBJECTIVES: "Enhanced recovery after surgery" (ERAS) protocols use a multisystem approach to target homeostatic physiology via opioid-minimizing analgesia. The aim of this study is to determine if an ERAS protocol for lower extremity bypass surgery improves pain control and decreases narcotics. METHODS: From July 2020 through June 2021, all patients that underwent infrainguinal lower extremity bypass procedures were subject to the ERAS protocol and compared to a "pre-ERAS" group between June 2016 through May 2020. Preoperatively, ERAS patients were given celecoxib, gabapentin, and acetaminophen while postoperatively they were given standing acetaminophen, gabapentin, ketorolac, and tramadol with as needed use of oxycodone. Pain scores were recorded using a numerical rating pain scale. Demographics, length of stay, 30-day complications, and disposition metrics were recorded. RESULTS: There were 50 patients in the ERAS group, compared to 114 before its implementation. The mean age was 70.5 (ERAS group) versus 68.7 (pre-ERAS group) and a majority were male (P > .05). Enhanced recovery after surgery patients were less likely to have chronic kidney disease (P = .01). Enhanced recovery after surgery patients had improved length of stay (3.6 ± 2.3 days vs 4.8 ± 3.2 days, ERAS vs pre-ERAS, P = .01). There was no significant difference between groups for the remaining demographics (P > .05). One patient (2%) in the ERAS group used patient-controlled analgesia, compared to 30 patients (26%) in the pre-ERAS group (P < .001). Cumulative pain control in the first 12 hours was significantly better in the ERAS group (P = .05). Pain control at discharge was similar between the 2 groups (3 pain score vs 3 pain score, pre-ERAS vs ERAS, P > .05). CONCLUSION: Our study utilized a multisystem approach to optimize the physiologic stress response to vascular surgery while reducing high potency narcotic use. We show that an ERAS protocol provides noninferior pain control with less potent pain medication and improves the length of stay for patients undergoing infrainguinal bypass surgery.

Occupational Radiation Exposure Among General Surgery Residents: Should We Be Concerned?

BACKGROUND: Low-dose ionizing radiation exposure is associated with development of solid organ tumors as well as increased risk of cataract formation in a linear-dose response. While occupational radiation exposure has been studied across subspecialties with regular fluoroscopy exposure such as interventional radiology and urology, the contribution of increasing endovascular case volume to occupational radiation exposure among general surgery residents remains largely unreported. In this study, we sought to determine typical occupational radiation exposure among a pool of general surgery residents as part of a formal radiation safety curriculum. METHODS: A radiation safety program was introduced to a group of 28 general surgery residents who rotate on a vascular surgery service with a high endovascular volume in a hybrid room setting. All residents received training in proper use of a radiation dosimeter and minimizing exposure during fluoroscopy times in the operating room. Data was collected from radiation film dosimetry badges distributed to general surgery residents on a bimonthly basis throughout the year, and radiation exposure in mRem was compared between residents rotating on vascular and nonvascular surgical services during 4-week rotations. RESULTS: A total of 14 months of data were collected. Resident compliance was 84% with regular use and return of dosimeters at the end of each bimonthly cycle. The radiation exposure among residents rotating on vascular surgery was significantly higher compared to those on nonvascular rotations (mean = 71 mRem vs 3.13 mRem, p = 0.02). Exposure among senior residents was not statistically different than that of attending vascular surgeons (mean = 212 mRem vs 164 mRem, p = 0.20). All exposures were significantly lower than institutional ALARA dose limits for radiation exposure (5000 mRem/year). CONCLUSION: General surgery residents are routinely exposed to measurable occupational radiation levels, especially while participating in endovascular procedures during their training. However, data from our study suggests that these levels are below ALARA dose limits and senior surgical residents are not at greater risk than vascular surgery attending surgeons while on their vascular rotation. The results of this study will be used to help guide resident education on radiation safety and identify institution-specific practices which can minimize exposure and improve radiation safety adherence.

Soft Hydrogel Inspired by Elastomeric Proteins.

Elastin polypeptides based on -VPGVG- repeated motifs are widely used in the production of biomaterials because they are stimuli-responsive systems. On the other hand, glycine-rich sequences, mainly present in tropoelastin terminal domains, are responsible for the elastin self-assembly. In a previous study, we have recombinantly expressed a chimeric polypeptide, named resilin, elastin, and collagen (REC), inspired by glycine-rich motifs of elastin and containing resilin and collagen sequences as well. Herein, a three-block polypeptide, named (REC)3, was expressed starting from the previous monomer gene by introducing key modifications in the sequence. The choice was mandatory because the uneven distribution of the cross-linking sites in the monomer precluded the hydrogel production. In this work, the cross-linked polypeptide appeared as a soft hydrogel, as assessed by rheology, and the linear un-cross-linked trimer self-aggregated more rapidly than the REC monomer. The absence of cell-adhesive sequences did not affect cell viability, while it was functional to the production of a material presenting antiadhesive properties useful in the integration of synthetic devices in the body and preventing the invasion of cells.

Farming systems influence the compositional, structural, and functional characteristics of the sugarcane-associated microbiome.

Sugarcane (Saccharum spp.) has been produced worldwide as a relevant source of food and sustainable energy. However, the constant need to increase crop yield has led to excessive use of synthetic agrochemical inputs such as inorganic fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides in plant cultures. It is known that these conventional practices can lead to deleterious effects on health and the environment. Organic farming emerges as a sustainable alternative to conventional systems; however, farm management influences in plant-associated microbiomes remain unclear. Here, the aim is to identify the effects of farming systems on the sugarcane microbiota. To address this issue, we sampled the microbiota from soils and plants under organic and conventional farming from two crop fields in Brazil. Then, we evaluated their compositional, structural, and functional traits through amplification and sequencing of phylogenetic markers of bacteria (16S rRNA gene, V3-V4 region) and fungi (Internal Transcribed Spacer - ITS2). The data processing and analyses by the DADA2 pipeline revealed 12,839 bacterial and 3,222 fungal sequence variants. Moreover, differences between analogous niches were detected considering the contrasting farming systems, with samples from the conventional system showing a slightly greater richness and diversity of microorganisms. The composition is also different between the farming systems, with 389 and 401 differentially abundant taxa for bacteria and fungi, respectively, including taxa capable of promoting plant growth. The microbial co-occurrence networks showed structural changes in microbial communities, where organic networks were more cohesive since they had closer taxa and less modularity by niches. Finally, the functional prediction revealed enriched metabolic pathways, including the increased presence of antimicrobial resistance in the conventional farming system. Taken together, our findings reveal functional, structural, and compositional adaptations of the microbial communities associated with sugarcane plants in the field, according to farming management. With this, we point out the need to unravel the mechanisms driving these adaptations.

Effect of respiratory inhibitors and quinone analogues on the aerobic electron transport system of Eikenella corrodens.

The effects of respiratory inhibitors, quinone analogues and artificial substrates on the membrane-bound electron transport system of the fastidious ß-proteobacterium Eikenella corrodens grown under O2-limited conditions were studied. NADH respiration in isolated membrane particles were partially inhibited by rotenone, dicoumarol, quinacrine, flavone, and capsaicin. A similar response was obtained when succinate oxidation was performed in the presence of thenoyltrifluoroacetone and N,N'-dicyclohexylcarbodiimide. NADH respiration was resistant to site II inhibitors and cyanide, indicating that a percentage of the electrons transported can reach O2 without the bc1 complex. Succinate respiration was sensitive to myxothiazol, antimycin A and 2-heptyl-4-hydroxyquinoline-N-oxide (HQNO). Juglone, plumbagin and menadione had higher reactivity with NADH dehydrogenase. The membrane particles showed the highest oxidase activities with ascorbate-TCHQ (tetrachlorohydroquinone), TCHQ alone, and NADH-TMPD (N,N,N',N'-tetramethyl-p-phenylenediamine), and minor activity levels with ascorbate-DCPIP (2,6-dichloro-phenolindophenol) and NADH-DCPIP. The substrates NADH-DCPIP, NADH-TMPD and TCHQ were electron donors to cyanide-sensitive cbb' cytochrome c oxidase. The presence of dissimilatory nitrate reductase in the aerobic respiratory system of E. corrodens ATCC 23834 was demonstrated by first time. Our results indicate that complexes I and II have resistance to their classic inhibitors, that the oxidation of NADH is stimulated by juglone, plumbagin and menadione, and that sensitivity to KCN is stimulated by the substrates TCHQ, NADH-DCPIP and NADH-TMPD.

Bacterial communities associated with sugarcane under different agricultural management exhibit a diversity of plant growth-promoting traits and evidence of synergistic effect.

Plant-associated microbiomes have been a target of interest for the prospection of microorganisms, which may be acting as effectors to increase agricultural productivity. For years, the search for beneficial microorganisms has been carried out from the characterization of functional traits of growth-promotion using tests with a few isolates. However, eventually, the expectations with positive results may not be realized when the evaluation is performed in association with plants. In our study, we accessed the cultivable sugarcane microbiome under two conditions of agronomic management: organic and conventional. From the use of a new customized culture medium, we recovered 944 endophytic and epiphytic bacterial communities derived from plant roots, stalks, leaves, and rhizospheric soil. This could be accomplished by using a large-scale approach, initially performing an in planta (Cynodon dactylon) screening process of inoculation to avoid early incompatibility. The inoculation was performed using the bacterial communities, considering that in this way, they could act synergistically. This process resulted in 38 candidate communities, 17 of which had higher Indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) production and phosphate solubilization activity and, were submitted to a new in planta test using Brachiaria ruziziensis and quantification of functional traits for growth-promotion and physiological tests. Enrichment analysis of selected communities has shown that they derived mainly from epiphytic populations of sugarcane stalks under conventional management. The sequencing of the V3-V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene revealed 34 genera and 24 species distributed among the phylum Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes, and Actinobacteria. We also observed a network of genera in these communities where the genus Chryseobacterium stands out with a greater degree of interaction, indicating a possible direct or indirect role as a keystone taxon in communities with plant-growth promotion capacities. From the results achieved, we can conclude that the approach is useful in the recovery of a set of sugarcane bacterial communities and that there is, evidence of synergistic action providing benefits to plants, and that they are compatible with plants of the same family (Poaceae). Thus, we are reporting the beneficial bacterial communities identified as suitable candidates with rated potential to be exploited as bioinoculants for crops.

Techno-economic and environmental assessment of methane oxidation layer measures through small-scale clean development mechanism - The case of the Seychelles.

Unclosed coastal landfills in small island developing states are major sources of greenhouse gases and other environmental impacts. This is a major problem for sustainable waste management systems mainly due to the lack of economic resources. The clean development mechanism (CDM) appears as a possibility to facilitate sustainable financing. Implementing a methane oxidation layer (MOL) emerges as a feasible technical option for this kind of small landfills since landfill gas extraction is usually not viable. This paper presents a techno-economic and environmental assessment of MOL implementation in the Providence landfill (Seychelles) as a small-scale CDM measure. Results show that the MOL measure could avoid by 2030 between 94 and 20 kt CO2 eq. Concerning profitability, results clearly show that it depends on the existence of stabilized biomass material within the island. Thus, the MOL measure starts to be profitable in some scenarios for certified emission reductions (CER) prices higher than 26 €/t CO2 eq. that seem possible depending on the emissions' market development. When not profitable under CDM, the MOL measure might be used to reduce CO2 emissions from the domestic climate effort under the Paris Agreement since the unitary abatement costs is between 10 and 423 €/t CO2 eq. Moreover, the MOL measure contributes to the sustainable development goals (SDG) achievement - mainly SDG8, SDG13, and SDG14. Finally, results call for a prompt action in Seychelles since the sooner the MOL is implemented after the landfill is closed, the more profitable.

Charge Density as a Molecular Modulator of Nanostructuration in Intrinsically Disordered Protein Polymers.

Intrinsically disordered protein polymers (IDPPs) have attracted a lot of attention in the development of bioengineered devices and for use as study models in molecular biology because of their biomechanical properties and stimuli-responsiveness. The present study aims to understand the effect of charge density on the self-assembly of IDPPs. To that end, a library of recombinant IDPPs based on an amphiphilic diblock design with different charge densities was bioproduced, and their supramolecular assembly was characterized on the nano-, meso-, and microscale. Although the phase transition was driven by the collapse of hydrophobic moieties, the hydrophilic block composition strongly affected hierarchical assembly and, therefore, enabled the production of new molecular architectures, thus leading to new dynamics that govern the liquid-gel transition. These results highlight the importance of electrostatic repulsion for the hierarchical assembly of IDPPs and provide insights into the manufacture of supramolecular protein-based materials.

Percepción de pacientes con VIH/Sida sobre consulta odontológica en IPS de Santa Marta - Colombia / Perception of patients with HIV / AIDS on dental consultation in Santa Marta - Colombia

Introducción: La atención odontológica oportuna e inclusiva tiene un papel importante en las personas con VIH/SIDA, por cuanto permite prevenir y dar tratamiento a las múltiples lesiones orales que acompañan a esta patología, mejorando la calidad de vida de esta población. Objetivo: Determinar la percepción y experiencia de pacientes con VIH/SIDA sobre la consulta odontológica en una Institución Prestadora de Salud (IPS) de Santa Marta, Colombia. Materiales y métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo cuantitativo donde participaron 64 pacientes con VIH/SIDA de una IPS de la ciudad de Santa Marta, quienes se les aplicó un instrumento de recolección de datos. Resultados: El 65,6% expresó nunca percibir rechazo por parte del odontólogo, el 25% refiere haber experimentado algún rechazo por lo menos una vez y un 9,4% siempre se siente rechazado. Conclusiones: Existe la necesidad de abordar esta enfermedad no sólo desde el aspecto clínico, sino también desde lo social, para educar tanto al profesional de la salud como a la comunidad, sobre avances científicos, el estudio de esta patología y los riesgos reales de contraerla, para desmitificar esta afección y erradicar la discriminación hacia los pacientes.

Introduction: Timely and comprehensive dental care is important for HIV/AIDS patients as it facilitates prevention and treatment of the multiple oral lesions that accompany this pathology, and consequently, improves their quality of life. Objective: To determine the perception and experience of the dental care service provided by a Health Provider Institution (HPI) to HIV/AIDS patients from the city of Santa Marta (Colombia). Materials and methods: A descriptive quantitative study was carried out with 64 HIV/AIDS patients treated in the HPI, to whom a data collection instrument was applied. Results: 65.6% of the HIV/AIDS patients did not perceive any rejection from the dentist, whereas 25% and 9.4% of these patients reported being discriminated at least once and always, respectively. Conclusions: There is a need to approach this disease not only from a clinical standpoint but also from a social perspective in order to educate both health professionals and communities about: scientific advances; how to study this pathology; and the risks of contracting HIV/AIDS. It is also necessary to demystify some misconceptions and eradicate discrimination against these patients.

Semantic Intrusion Error Ratio Distinguishes Between Cognitively Impaired and Cognitively Intact African American Older Adults.

BACKGROUND: Semantic intrusion errors on memory tests may represent very early cognitive changes associated with elevated Alzheimer's disease pathology within the brain, including amyloid-ß (Aß). Subscales that measure proactive semantic interference (PSI) and intrusions related to PSI on the Loewenstein Acevedo Scales of Semantic Interference and Learning (LASSI-L) have been associated with high levels of brain amyloid load, structural changes on brain MRI in Hispanic and non-Hispanic groups. It is presently unknown whether intrusion errors or other measures of the LASSI-L can differentiate between African-American (AA) older adults diagnosed with amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) or classified as cognitively normal (CN). OBJECTIVE: This study examined the extent to which a high percentage of semantic intrusion errors on LASSI-L subscales susceptible to PSI and other LASSI-L measures could differentiate between AA aMCI and CN groups. METHODS: Forty-eight AA older adults were recruited (27 CN and 21 aMCI) and received a through clinical and neuropsychological evaluation. The LASSI-L was administered independent of diagnostic classification. RESULTS: With and without statistical adjustment for literacy, AA aMCI participants scored lower on all LASSI-L measures. ROC analyses revealed an area under the curve exceeding 90% and correctly classified 86% of AA aMCI with 82% specificity for AA CN participants. CONCLUSIONS: Percentage of intrusion errors on the LASSI-L subscales susceptible to PSI differentiated AA aMCI from AA CN. This adds to emerging evidence indicating that the LASSI-L may be culturally appropriate and can differentiate between aMCI and CN in diverse ethnic/cultural groups.

Síndrome de Parry-Romberg: hemiatrofia facial progresiva. Reporte de caso / Parry-Romberg Syndrome: progressive facial hemiatrophy case report

INTRODUCCIÓN: el Síndrome de Parry-Romberg es un trastorno neurocutáneo, muy raro, caracterizado por hemiatrofia facial progresiva, su primer signo clínico es la asimetría facial, se presenta frecuentemente de manera simultánea con la esclerodermia lineal. PRESENTACIÓN DE CASO: femenina de 54 años de edad, con antecedente de hemiatrofia facial y alteración oftalmológica izquierda desde los 14 años. DISCUSIÓN: el Síndrome de Parry-Romberg inicia entre las primeras décadas de la vida con hiperpigmentación, atrofia de la dermis, grasa subcutánea, músculo y huesos subyacentes. La atrofia afecta la hemicara siguiendo la distribución del nervio trigémino y sus ramas; este caso coincidió con la edad de inicio, la lesión se limitó a la hemicara izquierda. CONCLUSIÓN: debe tenerse presente como diagnóstico diferencial en pacientes con alteración en la simetría facial de larga evolución sin causa aparente, el diagnóstico temprano evita las complicaciones graves, se recomienda un manejo multidisciplinario para mejorar la calidad de vida de los pacientes.

INTRODUCTION: parry-Romberg Syndrome is a neurocutaneous disorder, very rare and characterized by progressive facial hemiatrophy, the first clinical sign is facial asymmetry. SPR occurs simultaneously with high frequency with linear scleroderma. CASE PRESENTATION: a 54-year-old female, with a history of left facial hemiatrophy since she was 14 years old, presented a left ophthalmological alteration. DISCUSSION: Parry-Romberg Syndrome begins in the first decades of life with hyperpigmentation, atrophy of the dermis, subcutaneous fat, muscle and underlying bones. Atrophic affects the hemicara with distribution of the trigeminal nerve and its branches; this case coincided with the age of onset and the lesion was limited to the left hemicra. CONCLUSION: it should be borne in mind as a differential diagnosis in patients with long-standing facial symmetry alteration without apparent cause, early diagnosis avoids serious complications, multidisciplinary management is recommended to improve the quality of life of patients.