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Background and Aim: The feeding and sanitary conditions significantly influence the productivity of farm animals. This study aimed to assess the impact of a lactic acid-producing microbial additive on broiler chicken productivity. Materials and Methods: A 42-day experimental period utilized 120 1-day-old Cobb 500 chicks with an average weight of 46 g. In groups of 30 each, the chicks were randomly assigned to four experimental designs. The following treatments were assessed: T1 without intervention (control), T2 with bacitracin at a concentration of 0.5 g/L, T3 with a 5% probiotic mixture (PM), and T4 with a 7.5% PM. The birds were fed the commercial balanced feed without anticoccidials daily, while vaccines were administered according to the recommended biosecurity plan by the commercial house. Drinking water was treated with PM containing lactobacilli, yeasts, and short-chain organic acids. Result: In T4, a 7.5% PM resulted in a final weight of 2361.2 g (p < 0.05), a total weight gain of 1412.8 g (p < 0.05), and improved feed efficiency with a feed conversion of 2.00 (p < 0.05), during which feed intake was lower than in the other groups. Conclusion: Microbial additives with lactic acid activity are a cost-effective and feasible solution for broiler chicken productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Scarce research has been performed on the role of power, affectivity, and suppression of emotional expression in the use of dating violence by adolescents and young men. This study aims to analyze a model of the associations between perceived power (control and dominance), affectivity (positive and negative affect), suppression of emotional expression and the frequency of use of male-to female dating violence. Participants in this cross-sectional and correlational study were 786 Spanish students aged between 13 and 25 years (M = 18.80; SD = 2.93) divided in two groups: 13–18 (316 adolescents, M = 15.58; SD = 1.02) and 18–25 (462 young men, M = 20.79; SD = 1.98) with 8 participants not stating their age. Different sequential mediation models confirmed that, only in young men, affectivity (negative and positive affect) and suppression of emotional expression mediate the relationship between power and the use of dating violence. Fostering equal relationships, associating them with positive emotional states, avoiding the frustration derived from low power perception, and providing young men with strategies for appropriately expressing their emotions may help decrease the use of dating violence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The mental health of health personnel was affected by the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic and its associated consequences, including the change in working conditions. Aims: To analyze the relationship between mental health indicators and socio-occupational factors. Materials and methods: The PHQ-9, GAD-7, and ISI-3 were applied to 90 health workers. Results: Nursing staff reported greater depressive, anxiety, and insomnia symptomatology. In turn, they manifested greater indicators of depression in interaction with the change in workday (F (1,86) = 3.83, p= 0.05, partial η² = 0.04) and work shift (F (1,86) = 6.80, p= 0. 01, partial η² = 0.07); greater anxious symptomatology in interaction with change in workday (F (1,86) = 5.83, p= 0.02, partial η² = 0.06) and work shift (F (1,86) = 9.26, p= 0.003, partial η² = 0.10). Additionally, more indicators of insomnia in interaction with being on the front line (F (1,86) = 4.96, p = 0.04, partial η²= 0.05) and changes in working hours (F (1,86) = 3.88, p = 0.05, partial η²= 0.04). Conclusion: The nursing staff was more affected by changes in working conditions, having more symptoms of anxiety, depression, and insomnia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article aims to relate natural teleology to the practice of governance. To do so, it presents the phenomenon of social fragmentation and evaluates it –following A. MacIntyre– as a negative aspect of contemporary social (dis)order due to the moral and psychological disintegration it promotes among ordinary people. Such disintegration leads to conflict and confusion between desires and goods. Among the causes of fragmentation, analytical philosophy and the social theory of existentialism stand out and, at their core, the abandonment of natural teleology. Institutional governance is not immune to fragmentation, so the author suggests that a perspective that explicitly integrates natural teleology in the practice of governance may have practical implications in decision-making and can constitute a significant, albeit partial, contribution to achieving social and moral cohesion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research into the impact of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) on consumer behaviour has consistently revealed that CSR initiatives possess the potential to mould specific consumer attitudes and behaviours that, in turn, profoundly influence the overall success of businesses. Building upon the theoretical framework of the expectation disconfirmation theory, this study seeks to delve deeper into the intricate dynamics that underlie the influence of consumers’ perceptions of a company’s CSR efforts on their satisfaction levels and, consequentially, their propensity to exhibit brand loyalty. Previous CSR studies have ignored the possible interactions between CSR dimensions. This study tests the moderating role of social and environmental aspects of CSR in the relationship between economic responsibility and consumer satisfaction, influencing consumer loyalty. A sample of 252 Spanish consumers was used to test the hypotheses. The findings suggest that each aspect of CSR has varying levels of impact, and their interplay also significantly affects satisfaction and consequent loyalty. The economic aspect most influences consumer loyalty, and its effect is amplified as social or environmental aspects increase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The mealybugs are a large family of sap-sucking herbivore insects comprising more than 2000 species. They feed on many economically important agricultural and ornamental plants. During the cold periods of the winter, insects overwintering without migrating often require special habitats to survive unfavorable environmental conditions. In the case of mealybugs inhabiting fruit orchards, it was believed that the trunk and the branches were the main overwintering sites where individuals diapause. Here it is shown for the first time that, in temperate climates, mealybugs spend half of the year on the tree canopy and the large majority move to the rhizosphere of the fruit tree during the winter to feed on the roots and reproduce (complete at least one generation) under the new "belowground habitat." This unique adaptive strategy allows an aboveground herbivore to turn into a belowground root-feeding insect for part of the year. The preferred area to overwinter for the main female mealybug species is within 1 m in diameter around the fruit tree trunk, where more than 12,000 mealybug males per square meter can emerge every spring. These findings have implications at the ecological and agronomical levels since current treatments to control mealybug pests are based on the fruit trees' canopy. Insects have limited ability to regulate their body temperature and have thus required a range of strategies to withstand thermally stressful environments. Under unfavorable winter conditions, insects often take refuge under the soil surface to survive. Here, the mealybug insect family was selected for the study. Field experiments were performed in fruit orchards in eastern Spain. We used specifically designed floor sampling methods combined with fruit tree canopy pheromone traps. We found that in temperate climates, the large majority of the mealybugs move from the tree canopy to the roots during the winter, where they turn into belowground root-feeding herbivores to survive and continue underground the reproductive process. Within the rhizosphere, mealybugs complete at least one generation before emerging on the soil surface. The preferred area to overwinter is within 1 m in diameter around the fruit tree trunk, where more than 12,000 mealybug flying males per square meter can emerge every spring. This overwintering pattern has not previously been reported for any other group of insects showing cold avoidance behavior. These findings have implications at the winter ecology level but also at the agronomical level since treatments to control mealybug pests are, until now, only based on the fruit trees' canopy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article "Desire and Human Flourishing: Perspectives from Positive Psychology, Moral Education, and Virtue Ethics" by Dr. Magdalena Bosch highlights the importance of desire in character formation and moral education. According to Bosch, desire is fundamental for human growth and its learning is key to character formation. Bosch's proposal seeks to integrate reason and desires in moral decision-making and emphasizes the importance of educating desire in moral action formation. The article also presents a book that addresses the complex nature of motivation and the development of internal desires that lead to decision-making, and explores different approaches to desire education and their practical applications in various areas of human development. [Extracted from the article]

This special issue of the Management Letters / Cuadernos de Gestión is dedicated to presenting those articles that are included as part of the special issue on consumer behavior and sustainable issues and that highlight marketing's important role in encouraging sustainable consumption. The first part of this editorial presents six articles that structure this special issue. The second part examines the concept of sustainable marketing and the most effective ways to change consumer behaviour to become more sustainable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dp71 and Dp40 are the main products of the DMD gene in the central nervous system, and they are developmentally regulated from the early stages of embryonic development to adulthood. To further study the roles of Dp71 and Dp40 during cell proliferation and neural differentiation, we analyzed Dp71/Dp40 isoform expression at the mRNA level by RT-PCR assays to identify alternative splicing (AS) in the isoforms expressed in rat neural stem/progenitor cells (NSPCs) and in differentiated cells (neurons and glia). We found that proliferating NSPCs expressed Dp71d, Dp71d Δ71 , Dp71f, Dp71f Δ71 , Dp71d Δ74 and Dp40, as well as two Dp40 isoforms: Dp40 Δ63,64 and Dp40 Δ64-67. In differentiated cells we also found the expression of Dp71d, Dp71d Δ71 , Dp71f, Dp71f Δ71 and Dp40. However, the expression frequencies were different in both stages. In addition, in differentiated cells, we found Dp71f Δ71-74 , and interestingly, we did not find the expression of Dp71d Δ74 or the newly identified Dp40 isoforms. In this work we show that NSPC differentiation is accompanied by changes in Dp71/Dp40 isoform expression, suggesting different roles for these isoforms in NSPCs proliferation and neuronal differentiation, and we describe, for the first time, alternative splicing of Dp40. • Proliferating NSPCs differentially expressed Dp71 and Dp40 isoforms. • Dp71d isoforms are highly expressed in NSPCs. • Proliferating NSPCs expressed novel Dp40 isoforms Dp40 Δ63,64 and Dp40 Δ64-67. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modulation of electric currents through single-molecule junctions is usually achieved by synthesis of molecules with desired functionalities, in conjunction with suitable molecule–electrode contacts through specific anchoring groups. An alternative to this approach, barely explored so far, is to use structured electrodes, where conductivity could eventually be controlled by changing the specific anchoring site within the very same electrode. Here, we theoretically investigate how to exploit the pronounced anisotropy of corrugated graphene deposited on Ru(0001) (Gr/Ru) to tailor single-molecule conductivity in 4-aminophenyl and 4-aminobenzonitrile. We show that currents induced in the upper and lower anchoring positions in the Gr/Ru moiré are substantially different, irrespective of the chosen molecule. The magnitude of these currents can differ by as much as an order of magnitude at specific bias voltages. We also show that both molecules display rectifying properties, which can differ by up to a factor of five in different anchoring sites. Interestingly, the observed modulations strongly depend on the chemical binding nature between the molecule and the electrode, (strong) covalent bond for 4-aminophenyl and (weak) physisorption for 4-aminobenzonitrile. All this suggests that Gr/Ru can be an ideal electrode to modulate single-molecule electric conductivity under experimental conditions that are available in many laboratories. [Display omitted] • Gr/Ru electrodes can be used to tailor single-molecule conductivity. • Molecule–electrode interaction strongly affects the current. • The asymmetry of the junction influences the rectification ratio. • Transport properties are not affected by the quantum dot located at the hill-site. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The single‐molecule conductance of a series of BN‐acene‐like derivatives has been measured by using scanning tunneling break‐junction techniques. A strategic design of the target molecules has allowed us to include azaborine units in positions that unambiguously ensure electron transport through both heteroatoms, which is relevant for the development of customized BN‐doped nanographenes. We show that the conductance of the anthracene azaborine derivative is comparable to that of the pristine all‐carbon anthracene compound. Notably, this heteroatom substitution has also allowed us to perform similar measurements on the corresponding pentacene‐like compound, which is found to have a similar conductance, thus evidencing that B–N doping could also be used to stabilize and characterize larger acenes for molecular electronics applications. Our conclusions are supported by state‐of‐the‐art transport calculations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The single‐molecule conductance of a series of BN‐acene‐like derivatives has been measured by using scanning tunneling break‐junction techniques. A strategic design of the target molecules has allowed us to include azaborine units in positions that unambiguously ensure electron transport through both heteroatoms, which is relevant for the development of customized BN‐doped nanographenes. We show that the conductance of the anthracene azaborine derivative is comparable to that of the pristine all‐carbon anthracene compound. Notably, this heteroatom substitution has also allowed us to perform similar measurements on the corresponding pentacene‐like compound, which is found to have a similar conductance, thus evidencing that B–N doping could also be used to stabilize and characterize larger acenes for molecular electronics applications. Our conclusions are supported by state‐of‐the‐art transport calculations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a complete Raman spectroscopic study in two structurally well-defined diradical species of different lengths incorporating oligo p-phenylene vinylene bridges between two polychlorinated triphenylmethyl radical units, a disposition that allows sizeable conjugation between the two radicals through and with the bridge. The spectroscopic data are interpreted and supported by quantum chemical calculations. We focus the attention on the Raman frequency changes, interpretable in terms of: (i) bridge length (conjugation length); (ii) bridge conformational structure; and (iii) electronic coupling between the terminal radical units with the bridge and through the bridge, which could delineate through-bond spin polarization, or spin delocalization. These items are addressed by using the "oligomer approach" in conjunction with pressure and temperature dependent Raman spectroscopic data. In summary, we have attempted to translate the well-known strategy to study the electron (charge) structure of π−conjugated molecules by Raman spectroscopy to the case of electron (spin) interactions via the spin delocalization mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study develops a novel silver-copper/hydroxyapatite composite (Ag–Cu/HA) with high biocompatibility and antibacterial activity. Two different materials were synthesized, namely silver-hydroxyapatite (Ag-HA) and copper-hydroxyapatite (Cu-HA) composites, with 0.1%, 0.5%, and 1.0% (mol) of each metal. These materials were mixed in a planetary mill to obtain the Ag–Cu/HA composites. The results of our characterization demonstrated the low cytotoxicity and hemolytic response. The composite showed higher percent-inhibition for bacterial growth compared to those in separated composites of silver or copper with hydroxyapatite. Hence, these new materials promise higher efficacy as antibacterial hydroxyapatites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Individuals' financial well-being has been recognised as an important concern to reach individuals' general well-being and societal welfare. In this context, understanding how individuals can ensure a good state of financial well-being is a critical question. However, previous studies have not paid enough attention to underlying the mechanisms by which individuals achieve financial well-being. The purpose of this paper is to explore the influence of attitude to money on individuals' financial well-being, placing the emphasis on the intervention of financial planning horizon, risk tolerance and individuals' actual financial behaviour. Using Structural Equation Modelling and Process Procedure for SPSS, empirical evidence for a sample of 8554 Spanish individuals largely supports the proposed hypotheses. Indeed, it suggests that individuals' attitude to money influences actual financial behaviour, besides planning horizon and risk tolerance, that both exert an influence over actual financial behaviour, and this, ultimately, influences individuals' financial well-being. This study ends up by presenting the main implications of these findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

La edad avanzada de las plantaciones y la poca tecnificación limitan la producción de cacao en México, por lo que la producción es decadente. Una alternativa para su renovación es injertar yemas de material mejorado en renuevos inducidos en la base del tronco; en esta investigación se planteó estudiar el desarrollo inicial de 15 genotipos de cacao obtenidos mediante mejoramiento participativo en plantaciones de productores. El ensayo se estableció en una plantación de 50 años de establecida de un productor cooperante del municipo de Tecpatan, Chiapas. Los materiales fueron propagados por injertado de corona usando vareta de 15 cm. Durante la propagación, los genotipos UNACH370, UNACH343, UNACH344, UNACH304 y UNACH-05 presentaron el mayor prendimiento. El mejor comportamiento en longitud y grosor del tallo y número de ramas fue observado en UNACH304, UNACH370, UNACH344, UNACH341, y UNACH27, que mostraron precocidad en floración y producción; las primeras flores fueron visibles en plantas a diez meses del injertado. El costo de esta etapa inicial de renovación de una hectárea se estima en $14,369 pesos mexicanos equivalentes a $736 US Dolares. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A number of contrasting hypotheses have been put forward concerning mathematical performance deficits in children with specific language impairment (SLI). However, debate as to the nature of this deficit continues. The present study analyzed whether the trajectories of SLI-children may be attributed to the use of symbolic vs. linguistic assessment tasks, or to a deficit in the magnitude system. Method: SLI-children (N=20) and typically achieving children (N=20) were monitored between kindergarten and first grade. Four tasks were designed, each with varying demands on language, symbolic, and domain-specific skills. Results: The groups only differed in the trajectories of those numerical tasks involving high language demand. Conclusions: These findings indicate that SLI children present an early deficit in the development of numerical skills that require retrieval from long term memory and articulation of a phonological representation. Number skills involving greater language demand should be included as part of SLI early detection and intervention protocols. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A combination of Raman spectroscopy and density functional theory calculations is used to describe the structural and spectroscopic properties of the different isomeric cations of diferrocenyl quaterthiophenes. Isomerisation of the thienyl β-positions provides site selective oxidation, which gives rise to species that can interconvert by moving the charge over the bridge. The spectroscopic study allows us to describe a sequence of stationary trapped cationic, either ferrocenyl or thienyl, states which constitutes an energy cascade of accessible sites through which the charge transfer can proceed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although previous studies revealed the positive perception effect of corporate social responsibility (CSR) on consumer behavior, the influence mechanism and the impact of individual characteristics on the effect have been underexplored. The purpose of this study is not only to examine the mediating role of the emotion of admiration in the relationship between consumer perception of CSR and advocacy behaviors but also to explore the moderating role of the consumer moral virtue of integrity in the relationship between CSR perception and feelings of admiration. Data was collected from customers of a food company located in Spain, and the results show that the company's CSR practices positively influence consumer advocacy behaviors both directly and indirectly through consumer admiration for the company. Consumer integrity moderates the relationship between consumer perception of CSR and admiration. Specifically, CSR practices have a stronger admiration effect on consumers who are high in integrity. The overall importance of consumer perceptions of CSR suggest that, in the food industry, the perception of appropriate CSR practices has a positive impact on consumer attitudes and behaviors, which are also conditioned by individuals' moral virtues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Se estudiaron las características fisicoquímicas del licor de cacao de 30 genotipos obtenidos mediante mejoramiento participativo en plantaciones de Chiapas y Tabasco, México. Las muestras fueron analizadas en contenido de grasas, °Brix, pH, actividad antioxidante y acidez titulable. El análisis de varianza (P= 0.05) por regiones de origen y genotipos mostró diferencias estadísticas significativas en cuanto a actividad antioxidante, pH y acidez titulable; los genotipos mostraron diferencias en todas las variables. Estos resultados indican que el licor obtenido reúne las exigencias de calidad del mercado de chocolatería finas e incluso con propiedades nutracéuticas. En el germoplasma estudiado, se diferencian genotipos con alto contenido de compuestos antioxidantes, aunque para un aprovechamiento comercial se considera necesario desarrollar protocolos de manejo postcosecha que permitan explotar el potencial genético y caracterizar los licores o pastas con atributos sensoriales que denotan la calidad de los cacaos finos de aroma y su potencial en mercados especializados. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human cancers represent complex structures, which display substantial inter- and intratumor heterogeneity in their genetic expression and phenotypic features. However, cancers usually exhibit characteristic structural, physiologic, and molecular features and display specific biological capabilities named hallmarks. Many of these tumor traits are imageable through different imaging techniques. Imaging is able to spatially map key cancer features and tumor heterogeneity improving tumor diagnosis, characterization, and management. This paper aims to summarize the current and emerging applications of imaging in tumor biology assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human cancers represent complex structures, which display substantial inter- and intratumor heterogeneity in their genetic expression and phenotypic features. However, cancers usually exhibit characteristic structural, physiologic, and molecular features and display specific biological capabilities named hallmarks. Many of these tumor traits are imageable through different imaging techniques. Imaging is able to spatially map key cancer features and tumor heterogeneity improving tumor diagnosis, characterization, and management. This paper aims to summarize the current and emerging applications of imaging in tumor biology assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a result of collections made during the years 2009-2017, the number of Cladoniaceae species is enlarged to 27 species, providing fifteen new records to Albanian Cladonia. The distribution of many of the previously mentioned taxa is extended and the chemical variability for many of the species is discussed. Cladonia borealis, C. caespiticia, C. cervicornis, C. coccifera, C. conista, C. cryptochlorophaea, C. cyathomorpha, C. humilis, C. merochlorophaea, C. parasitica, C. peziziformis, C. polycarpoides, C. ramulosa, C. rei and C. subulata are new for Albania. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of direct dimethyl ether (DME) solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) has several drawbacks, due to the low catalytic activity and carbon deposition of conventional Ni–zirconia-based anodes. In the present study, the insertion of 2.0 wt.% Ru-Ce0.7Zr0.3O2−δ (ruthenium–zirconium-doped ceria, Ru-CZO) as an anode catalyst layer (ACL) is proposed to be a promising solution. For this purpose, the CZO powder was prepared by the sol–gel synthesis method, and subsequently, nanoparticles of Ru (1.0–2.0 wt.%) were synthesized by the impregnation method and calcination. The catalyst powder was characterized by BET-specific surface area, X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy with an energy-dispersive spectroscopy detector (FESEM-EDS), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) techniques. Afterward, the catalytic activity of Ru-CZO catalyst was studied using DME partial oxidation. Finally, button anode-supported SOFCs with Ru-CZO ACL were prepared, depositing Ru-CZO onto the anode support and using an annealing process. The effect of ACL on the electrochemical performance of cells was investigated under a DME and air mixture at 750 °C. The results showed a high dispersion of Ru in the CZO solid solution, which provided a complete DME conversion and high yields of H2 and CO at 750 °C. As a result, 2.0 wt.% Ru-CZO ACL enhanced the cell performance by more than 20% at 750 °C. The post-test analysis of cells with ACL proved a remarkable resistance of Ru-CZO ACL to carbon deposition compared to the reference cell, evidencing the potential application of Ru-CZO as a catalyst as well as an ACL for direct DME SOFCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work studies the functional behavior of novel poly("-caprolactone) (PCL) membranes functionalized with reduced graphene oxide (rGO) nanoplatelets under simulated in vitro culture conditions (phosphate buffer solution (PBS) at 37 °C) during 1 year, in order to elucidate their applicability as scaffolds for in vitro neural regeneration. The morphological, chemical, and DSC results demonstrated that high internal porosity of the membranes facilitated water permeation and procured an accelerated hydrolytic degradation throughout the bulk pathway. Therefore, similar molecular weight reduction, from 80 kDa to 33 kDa for the control PCL, and to 27 kDa for PCL/rGO membranes, at the end of the study, was observed. After 1 year of hydrolytic degradation, though monomers coming from the hydrolytic cleavage of PCL diffused towards the PBS medium, the pH was barely affected, and the rGO nanoplatelets mainly remained in the membranes which envisaged low cytotoxic effect. On the other hand, the presence of rGO nanomaterials accelerated the loss of mechanical stability of the membranes. However, it is envisioned that the gradual degradation of the PCL/rGO membranes could facilitate cells infiltration, interconnectivity, and tissue formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Promising polymer membranes of blended biocompatible poly(ε-caprolactone) and graphene oxide (PCL/GO) and PCL and partially reduced graphene oxide (PCL/rGO) with outstanding water and nutrient transport properties for cell culture bioreactors were prepared using phase inversion at mild temperatures. Some of the prepared PCL/GO membranes were subjected to a ‘chemical-free’ GO post-reductive process using UV (PCL/GO/UV) irradiation. The PCL/rGO membranes exhibited 2.5 times higher flux than previously reported biocompatible polymer membranes for cell culture bioreactors, which was attributed to the highly interconnected porosity. On the other hand, the formation of PCL-graphene oxide composites in the PCL/GO and PCL/GO/UV membranes was not conclusive according to spectroscopic analyses, thermal analyses and mechanical characterization, probably due to the low graphene oxide loading in the membranes (0.1%w/w). The presence of graphene oxide-based nanomaterials in the polymer matrix slightly reduced the mechanical properties of the PCL-graphene oxide membranes by limiting the polymer chain mobility in comparison to that of the plain PCL membranes. However, their mechanical stability was sufficient for the applications pursued. Finally, the biocompatibility assay indicated that the incorporation of GO and rGO into the PCL matrix enhanced the uniform distribution and morphology of the glioblastoma cells on the surface of the PCL-graphene oxide membranes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Imaging techniques play a key role in the management of patients with colorectal cancer. The introduction of new advanced anatomical, functional, and molecular imaging techniques may improve the assessment of diagnosis, prognosis, planning therapy, and assessment of response to treatment of these patients. Functional and molecular imaging techniques in clinical practice may allow the assessment of tumour-specific characteristics and tumour heterogeneity. This paper will review recent developments in imaging technologies and the evolving roles for these techniques in colorectal cancer. Teaching Points: • Imaging techniques play a key role in the management of patients with colorectal cancer. • Advanced imaging techniques improve the evaluation of these patients. • Functional and molecular imaging allows assessment of tumour hallmarks and tumour heterogeneity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Predatory insects are key natural enemies that can highly reduce crops pest damage. However, there is a lack of knowledge about the movements of flying predatory insects in agroecosystems throughout the year. In particular, it is still unclear how these predators move from crop to non-crop habitats, which are the preferred habitats to overwinter and to spread during the spring and if these predators leave or stay after chemical treatments. Here, the Neuroptera, a generalist, highly mobile, flying predator order of insects, was selected as model. We studied the effects of farming management and the efficiency of edge shelterbelts, ground cover vegetation, and fruit trees canopy on holding flying predatory insects in Mediterranean traditional agroecosystems. Seasonal movements and winter effects were also assessed. We evaluated monthly nine fruit agroecosystems, six organic, and three pesticides sprayed, of 0.5-1 ha in eastern Spain during 3 years using two complementary methods, yellow sticky traps and aspirator. Results show surprisingly that the insect abundance was highest in pesticide sprayed systems, with 3.40 insects/sample versus 2.32 insects/sample in organic systems. The biodiversity indices were highest in agroecosystems conducted under organic management, with S of 4.68 and D of 2.34. Shelterbelts showed highest biodiversity indices, S of 3.27 and D of 1.93, among insect habitats. Insect species whose adults were active during the winter preferred fruit trees to spend all year round. However, numerous species moved from fruit trees to shelterbelts to overwinter and dispersed into the orchard during the following spring. The ground cover vegetation showed statistically much lower attractiveness for flying predatory insects than other habitats. Shelterbelts should therefore be the first option in terms of investment in ecological infrastructures enhancing flying predators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objectives of the present study were to analyze and describe the perception of levels of quality of life related to the health of patients with haemophilia and their parents. An additional purpose was to compare the size of effects on health-relatedquality of life related to the health of patients with haemophilia and patients with other chronic diseases. The present study involved a cross sectional analysis involving 48 patients and their parents. Analysis of variance and an analysis of Cohen's d were computed, and maximum and minimum effect's sizes were calculated. Results show that the perception of the participants indicated that the majority of children and their parents were at high risk. The effect size index revealed differences reflected by the mean scores of haemophilic and chronic patients. The authors conclude that quality of life related to health of the sample of haemophilia patients was poorer than that of patients with other chronic diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

HIV infection induces immune alterations, mainly in gut mucosa, where the main target cells reside. However, the evolution of the infection is variable among infected individuals, as evidenced by HIV controllers who exhibit low or undetectable viral load in the absence of treatment. The aim of this study was to evaluate the frequency, phenotype and activity of T and NK cells in peripheral blood and gut mucosa in a cohort of Colombian HIV controllers. Blood and gut biopsies were included. The frequency and the activation status of T and NK cells were performed by flow cytometry. In addition, Gag-stimulated CD8+ T-cells and cytokine-stimulated NK cells were tested for cytotoxic activity. Finally, microbial translocation was measured by plasma lipopolysaccharide quantification. Compared with HIV-progressors, HIV controllers exhibited higher frequency of CD4+ T and NK cells, and lower expression of activation molecules in blood and mucosal immune cells, as well as lower microbial translocation. An increased production of molecules associated with cytotoxic activity of CD8+ T-cells in blood and mucosa and a higher percentage of polyfunctional CD8+ T cells in blood were also observed in HIV controllers. In addition, an increased activity of NK cells was observed in blood. These findings suggest that HIV controllers have a potent immune response, mainly mediated by cytotoxic cells that control HIV replication, which contribute to reducing alterations at the gut mucosa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cinnamomum cassia is a medicinal plant whose use has demonstrated benefits on body weight, blood pressure, glucose, and lipids. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of C. cassia on arterial stiffness and endothelial dysfunction (ED) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was carried out in 18 subjects aged 40–65 years, with a diagnosis of T2DM of one year or less since diagnosis and treated with Metformin 850 mg daily. Patients were randomly assigned to receive either C. cassia or a placebo in 1000 mg capsules, thrice a day, before each meal for 12 weeks. At baseline and after 12 weeks of intervention, brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity and Flow Mediated Dilation were measured, as well as body weight, body mass index (BMI), blood pressure (BP), fasting glucose (FG), glycated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), total cholesterol, high density lipoprotein cholesterol, low density lipoprotein cholesterol, and very low density lipoprotein cholesterol, respectively, triglycerides, creatinine, and transaminases. The Mann–Whitney U test for differences between groups and the Wilcoxon signed-rank test for intragroup differences were used, and a P ≤ .05 was considered statistically significant. After C. cassia administration, statistically significant reductions in body weight (81.4 ± 10.4 kg vs. 79.9 ± 9.0 kg, P = .037), BMI (30.6 ± 4.2 kg/m2 vs. 30.1 ± 4.2 kg/m2, P = .018), and HbA1c (53 ± 5.4 mmol/mol vs. 45 ± 2.1 mmol/mol, P = .036) were observed. No changes statistically significant on arterial stiffness, ED, FG, BP, and lipids were observed. C. cassia administration decreases body weight, BMI, and HbA1c without statistically significant changes on arterial stiffness, ED, FG, BP, and lipids. CTR Number: NCT04259606 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rapid growth of genomics techniques has revolutionized and impacted, greatly and positively, the knowledge of toxicology, ushering it into a "new era": the era of genomic technology (GT). This great advance permits us to analyze the whole genome, to know the gene response to toxicants and environmental stressors, and to determine the specific profiles of gene expression, among many other approaches. The aim of this work was to compile and narrate the recent research on GT during the last 2 years (2020–2022). A literature search was managed using the PubMed and Medscape interfaces on the Medline database. Relevant articles published in peer-reviewed journals were retrieved and their main results and conclusions are mentioned briefly. It is quite important to form a multidisciplinary taskforce on GT with the aim of designing and implementing a comprehensive, collaborative, and a strategic work plan, prioritizing and assessing the most relevant diseases, so as to decrease human morbimortality due to exposure to environmental chemicals and stressors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The development of enteral formulas (FE) is subject to various risks of contamination. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), have worried about alerting, recommendations and documents released to prevent contamination the FE, suggesting the standardization and protocols for all procedures involved. Objetives: The study was aimed to evaluate compliance with the technical criteria contained in a Guideline for Good Practice of Manufacture in relation to the development, maintenance and administration of enteral nutrition in hospitals of Santiago, in the Metropolitan Area. Material and Methods: The verification criteria considered Physical Plant, Equipment and Implementation, Hygienic and Sanitary Standards, Human Resources, Organization and Management, Safety and Warranty Quality Assurance. 639 criteria were defined, 309 risk Type 1, by mayor risk of producing pollution. The study was conducted by observing Central Units Enteral Formulas and interview with the caregiver. Medium of compliance for each group of criteria risk 1 and overall, was analyzed. Results: A total of 14 public hospitals were studied. The degree of compliance with the 639 reached a median of 33.2% (p25-75 31.6% -40.4%), with the lowest value for physical plant with 27.9% (p25-75 23.9% -38.2%) and the highest for human resources with 52.4% (p25-75 44.1% -52.4%). Median compliance for risk criteria Type 1 was only 31.8% (p25-75 27.5% - 41.2%). Conclusion: Most of the units tested, meets less than half of the internationals recommendations, or the Ministry of Health of Chile. It should develop protocols and train staff to ensure quality and safety in the development of enteral formulas and reduce risk of infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Helicobacter pylori iceA1 and iceA2 gene amplification is usually performed to identify mixed populations as both genes are apparently reportedly exclusive. However, some strains isolated from Mexico show both iceA genes. The aim of this study was to establish the frequency of these genes in Mexican isolates and genomic diversity of the H. pylori strains. Methods: One hundred thirty six biopsies were obtained from 68 patients (39 children and 29 adults). The presence of H. pylori was confirmed in 3/18 children and 6/19 adults by culture. There were 93 clinical strains isolated from nine patients. Additionally, we studied 37 strains from a strain collection isolated from 10 patients. The strains were genotyped and dual iceA genes were identified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and amplicons were sequenced. In addition, an enterobacterial repetitive intergenic consensus PCR (ERIC-PCR) assay was performed as fingerprinting method. Results: The genotypification of the H. pylori isolates indicated that all strains were vacA+; 86% babA2+, 86% cagA+, 82% vacA s1m1+, 19% iceA1+, 9% iceA2+, and 72% of them carried both iceA1 and iceA2 genes. The ERIC-PCR profiling revealed that the strains clustered in eight genetic groups depending on the presence of iceA1, iceA2 or both. A basic local multiple alignment analysis of the nucleotide sequences revealed that the iceA1 and iceA2 genes exhibited no relevant similarity. Conclusion: The results here showed the presence of triple-positive strains (babA, cagA, vacA) of H. pylori and strains carrying simultaneously both iceA1 and iceA2 genes. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Adult intussusception (AI) is a rare entity with an organic lesion within the intussusception in 70-90% of the cases. Intussusception is classified according to location, etiology, and to the presence or not of a lead point. We illustrate several causes of AI with a variety of radiological findings on plain film, ultrasonography, computed tomography, magnetic resonance, and endoscopy seen at our institution. Imaging plays a major role in their diagnosis and in determining the appropriate treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In going from short to large size thienylene-vinylene diferrocenyl cations, the transition from a charge delocalized to a localized state is addressed by resonance Raman spectroscopy and supported by theoretical model chemistry. The shorter members, dimer and tetramer, display conjugated structures near the cyanine limit of bond length equalization as a result of the strong interferrocene charge resonance, producing a full charge delocalized mixed valence system. In the longest octamer, charge resonance vanishes and the cation is localized at the bridge center (the mixed valence property disappears). The hexamer is at the delocalized-to-localized turning point. Solvent and variable-temperature Raman measurements highlight this borderline property. A detailed structure-property correlation of bond length alternation data and Raman frequencies is proposed to account for the whole set of spectroscopic properties, with emphasis on the changes observed with the size of the molecular wire. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transformation of bipolarons into polaron pairs in long oligothiophene dications has been reported by Raman spectroscopy. These polaron-pair dicationic species possess singlet open-shell biradicaloid ground electronic states. The formation of biradical polaron pairs marks the end of the quinoidal stability promoted by the intrinsic proaromatic character. The quinoidal stability in TCNQ oligothiophenes in comparison with dicationic oligothiophenes has been addressed, [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Incorporation of transition metals onto the surface of mesoporous silica via grafting techniques could become a potential strategy for the bottom-up design of sorbents for the removal of pharmaceutical drugs and other emerging contaminants from water sources. Here we report the incorporation of Co2+, Ni2+, or Cu2+ onto the surface of mesoporous SBA-15 via an amino-organic grafting method and the screening of the materials as sorbents for the removal of Naproxen from water. The functionalization procedure involved the reaction of 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane with OH groups available on SBA-15 surfaces, followed by the anchoring of the desired metal. Removal of traces of sulfates from the metal sources and further metal anchoring were achieved after post-synthesis treatment at alkaline conditions. The resulting metal-modified materials were fully characterized using X-ray powder diffraction, N2 adsorption/desorption isotherms gathered at −196°C, SEM/EDX, FT-IR, and TGA. Aqueous phase single point adsorption experiments showed that Cu-based materials are good sorbents for the uptake of low-concentration Naproxen at 25°C and approaching alkaline conditions. The materials uptake capacities decreased as follows: CuNH2_g_SBA-15>NiNH2_g_SBA-15>CoNH2_g_SBA-15. In general, the adsorption results correlate well with the observed structural and textural properties of the materials, suggesting also that the metal amino-organic loading is highly dependent on the nature of grafting process and choice of metal. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In accordance with obesity is associated with insulin resistance and dyslipidemia and chitosan decrease weight and lipids, but its effect on insulin sensitivity is unknown. Our hypothesis for the research was that chitosan improves insulin sensitivity estimated with the euglycemic-hyperinsulinemic clamp technique in obesity. We undertook this study with the objective to determine the effect of chitosan on insulin sensitivity using the euglycemic-hyperinsulinemic clamp technique in obese patients during a 3-month period. A randomized, double-blind clinical trial was carried out in 12 obese adults without diabetes mellitus. During a 3-month period, 6 patients received chitosan (750 mg, 3 times per day) 30 minutes before meals, and the other 6 subjects received placebo. Serum glucose, total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and triglycerides (TG) were measured. Insulin sensitivity was estimated with the euglycemic-hyperinsulinemic clamp technique before and after the intervention. Insulin sensitivity increased significantly with the administration of chitosan (2.4 ± 1.4 vs 3.6 ± 1.4 mg kg−1 min−1; P = .043). In addition, there was a decrease in weight (90.7 ± 14.2 vs 84.7 ± 13.7 kg; P = .027), body mass index (34.3 ± 2.7 vs 31.6 ± 2.2 kg/m2; P = .028), waist circumference (106 ± 12 vs 99 ± 9 cm; P = .028) and TG (2.4 ± 0.9 vs 1.6 ± 0.9 mmol/L; P = .028) in the chitosan group. In conclusion, 3-month administration of chitosan increased insulin sensitivity in obese patients and demonstrated a decrease in weight, body mass index, waist circumference, and TG. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Effects produced in the hematite (α-Fe2O3) crystal due to the presence of F-centre are reported in the present work. The results are based on the performed quantum-chemical modelling using the Hartree–Fock methodology. A supercell consisting of 120 atoms has been used throughout the computations. First, the required numerical parameters for the Fe atom are obtained by reproducing fairly well the main features of a pure material. Then, the neutral F-centre defect has been introduced and its influence upon the microstructure and electronic properties in the hematite is determined. The acquired atomic shifts around the F-centre imply the significance of the Coulomb interaction in this material. However, the defect-induced electron density redistribution has to be taken into consideration in order to explain explicitly the atomic relaxation. Presence of the F-centre induces a local energy level in gap between the upper valence band and the conduction band, which imparts to the absorption spectra of the material with two values, 0.9 eV and 3.6 eV. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Aim: It was the aim of this study to evaluate the effect of oral L-carnitine administration on insulin sensitivity and lipid profile in subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Subjects and Methods: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was carried out in 12 subjects with type 2 diabetes. Six subjects received L-carnitine 1 g orally 3 times a day before meals for a period of 4 weeks. Six other individuals took a placebo for the same period of time, as the control group. Before and after the intervention, insulin sensitivity and the lipid profile were estimated. To assess insulin sensitivity, the euglycemic-hyperinsulinemic clamp technique was performed. Wilcoxon’s signed rank and the Mann-Whitney U test were used for the statistical analyses. Results: There were no significant differences in basal clinical characteristics between the 2 groups. Insulin sensitivity and the basal lipid profile were similar. There were no significant changes in either group after the intervention in insulin sensitivity (3.2 ± 1.2 vs. 4.5 ± 1.7 mg/kg/min, p = 0.115, and 3.5 ± 0.6 vs. 3.5 ± 0.4 mg/kg/min, p = 0.917, for the placebo and L-carnitine groups, respectively) and in lipid profile. Conclusion:L-Carnitine orally administered for a period of 4 weeks did not modify insulin sensitivity or the lipid profile. Copyright © 2008 S. Karger AG, Basel [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The extent of detemplation of cobalt containing aluminophosphates (SBE; Co/Al=1) was investigated. SBE powder crystals were obtained for the first time by extending the aging stage during synthesis. While X-ray powder diffraction data confirmed the presence of a rich Co-SBE phase, scanning electron microscopy images indicated that the crystal morphology was no longer a truncated hexahedron. Instead, the material displayed a hexagonal plate-like habit. Treatment in an oxidative atmosphere and vacuum, respectively, was used to study the removal of the structure-directing agent (SDA; 1,9-diaminononane). The former results in a “non-porous” framework as evidenced by low nitrogen uptake at 77K. The latter treatment, however, resulted in a material with a surface area and unit cell cage diameter of ca. 320m2/g and 9Å, respectively. From thermal gravimetric analyses, it was found that the SDA elimination proceeds in a traditional stepwise fashion. The first weight loss corresponding to the SDA elimination under inert (i.e., helium) conditions matches well with the predicted formation of alkene based on the theoretical unit cell data. Calcination in air at similar conditions results in only partial removal of the SDA followed by an immediate collapse of the framework, which correlates well with the sorption test results. UV–vis, Raman and FT-IR spectroscopy data confirmed that many of the original phase characteristics remained nearly unaffected after vacuum treatment. Oxidative calcination, however, results in the formation of extraframework cobalt formation. In general, this report represents the first step in releasing the theoretical catalytic and/or adsorption unique features of high-cobalt concentration porous with SBE-like frameworks. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Se presenta un análisis de algunos aspectos de la Corte Internacional de Justicia. Primero, es importante analizar los puntos comunes de las varias problemáticas en el derecho internacional. Se refiere directamente a la dificultad de salvaguardar la independencia del corte y el desarrollo de la Corte. Se analiza la posición de la Corte Permanente de Justicia Internacional y, luego, se discute los artículos 65 de la Carta de las Naciones Unidas. El propósito de este estudio es dar un análisis de los cambios y de la evolución de la organización internacional.

El artículo discute el programa de reinserción como una apuesta por la paz en Colombia. Se esboza una reseña de la legislación del programa de reinserción, especialmente el programa desarrollado desde 1997 hasta 2002. Se analiza el indulto, un elemento característico del programa, y uno de los beneficios para las personas que buscan la desmovilización de las filas insurgentes. Se estudian también los conceptos históricos e internacionales sobre este beneficio del programa.

• Equine leptospirosis is an infectious disease with a worldwide distribution, mainly in tropical areas. • Horses are particularly susceptible to the disease, presenting manifestations ranging from subclinical to the development of uveitis. • Blood and urine samples were collected from 34 horses and one mule from three localities in the state of Veracruz, Mexico. • The results reflected an overall serological frequency of 97.1 %. Additionally, we recovered 23 urine isolates. • Our results represent the first record of the presence of Leptospira interrogans and Leptospira santarosai through bacteriological isolates in equids from Mexico. Leptospirosis is an infectious disease with a worldwide distribution, which represents a major challenge in animal production across developing countries, mainly in tropical areas. Horses are particularly susceptible to the disease, presenting manifestations ranging from subclinical to the development of uveitis that compromises the visual health of the animals. In recent years, serological studies have been carried out in equid populations from America, demonstrating high exposure. For this reason, the aim of this study was to demonstrate microbiologically and molecularly the presence of the members of the genus Leptospira in urine samples from equids in an endemic state of leptospirosis in Mexico, and to detect the serological presence of anti- Leptospira antibodies in the sampled animals. For this reason, blood and urine samples were collected from 28 horses and one mule from three localities in the state of Veracruz, Mexico. Urine samples were inoculated in Ellinghausen–McCullough–Johnson–Harris (EMJH) medium, and the recovered isolates were typed using a short Multi Locus Sequence Typing scheme. Amplifications of the expected size were subjected to sequencing, and the recovered sequences were compared with those of reference deposited in GenBank using the BLAST tool. To identify their phylogenetic position, we performed a phylogenetic reconstruction using the maximum likelihood method. Additionally, Microscopic Agglutination test was performed on the serum samples to identify anti- Leptospira antibodies. We recovered 16 urine isolates which tested positive for the presence of Leptospira DNA. The phylogenetic reconstruction and the MLST analysis confirmed the presence of several genotypes of Leptospira interrogans and Leptospira santarosai. An overall serological frequency of 97.1 % was detected. Our results represent the first record of the presence of Leptospira through bacteriological isolates in equids from Mexico. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Protein hydrolysates containing bioactive peptides have emerged as therapeutic agents. However, these peptides may lose this bioactivity under gastrointestinal conditions. Encapsulation in edible biopolymers is a solution to this problem. Protein hydrolysates with ACE-I inhibitory activity, obtained previously, were encapsulated. A 1% solution of the biopolymers alginate (AG) and pectin (PC) in various ratios was prepared. The beads formed were evaluated in both wet and dry states for size, roundness, thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), encapsulation efficiency, and ACE-I inhibitory activity. Selected samples underwent in vitro digestion, after which peptide release and ACE-I inhibitory activity were determined. Size analysis revealed that increasing the PC content increased the bead size, with 100% PC beads showing total deformation and reduced roundness. TGA indicated that wet beads had lower thermal stability compared to dry beads. The highest encapsulation efficiency (95.57% ± 0.49) was observed with 100% AG beads. The 75% AG 25% PC beads exhibited the highest ACE-I inhibitory activity (97.97% ± 1.01). Encapsulated protein hydrolysates retained their ACE-I inhibitory activity after simulated digestion, whereas non-encapsulated hydrolysates lost their bioactivity. Encapsulation of amaranth protein hydrolysates with AG and PC thus preserves antihypertensive activity even after in vitro digestion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flourensia cernua DC, commonly known as hojasen or tarbush, is a medicinal plant used in arid regions due to its therapeutic properties, especially in the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders. This study aimed to assess the toxicity of a polyphenolic extract obtained from F. cernua. This research involved both in vitro (hemolytic and brine shrimp assay) and in vivo tests (acute oral toxicity) to determine the safety profile of this extract. The extract was obtained through a novel ultrasound‐microwave extraction and purified by ion‐exchange chromatography. Analysis of the polyphenolic extract revealed a rich composition of flavonoids and hydroxycinnamic acids, mainly apigenin glycosides. In toxicity tests, the polyphenols did not exhibit toxicity towards Artemia salina at a concentration of 1 mg/ml. Furthermore, incubation at 500 μg/ml for 4 hours showed a slight toxic effect on erythrocytes. In the acute oral toxicity test in mice, doses of 300 mg/kg and 2000 mg/kg did not result in animal mortality, indicating that the LD50 exceeds 2000 mg/kg. However, the higher dose induced signs of toxicity, including lethargy, drowsiness, piloerection, and a significant decrease in weight during the initial two days postadministration of the polyphenolic extract. In addition, histological analysis suggested potential kidney damage at the 2000 mg/kg dose. According to OECD guidelines, while the extract can be classified as category 5 (low acute toxicity) due to the absence of mortality at 2000 mg/kg, the observed signs of toxicity should be considered in the overall risk assessment. These findings highlight the potential of F. cernua in pharmaceutical and nutraceutical applications due to its high polyphenolic content. However, further investigations are necessary to explore the specific effects of the compounds present in the extract. In addition, continuous evaluation of its long‐term toxicity is essential to fully understand the extract's safety profile and efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Facing rising global food demand in a sustainable way is a great challenge of modern agriculture. Thus, the increase of crop productivity and resilience in an adverse climate scenario is urgently needed. Fungal endophytes have been described as potential biological tools to improve plant yield and tolerance to biotic and abiotic stresses; however, their application in agriculture needs further research. The fungal endophyte Colletotrichum tofieldiae strain Ct0861 establishes a mutualistic interaction with Arabidopsis thaliana, promoting plant growth and silique production at low phosphate conditions. Until now, its ability to colonize and confer benefits to other plant species remained unexplored. Here, we show that Ct0861 colonizes and promotes growth in vitro of maize (Zea mays L.) and tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) seedlings, resulting in significantly larger shoot length and weight. Greenhouse and field experiments in optimal nutritional conditions showed an increase between 12% and 22% of yield in both tomato and maize. The inoculated plants were not suffering from phosphate starvation, which points at different modes of action not elucidated yet. These results indicate that the beneficial effect of Ct0861 may extend to other plant species of economic importance, making Ct0861 a potentially valuable inoculant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]