Surgical Approach and Considerations for Compressive Thoracic Intraspinal Osteochondroma in Familial Hereditary Multiple Exostosis.

INTRODUCTION: Hereditary multiple exostosis or hereditary multiple osteochondromas is a very rare clinical condition. Usually, these lesions tend to occur in the pediatric population, remaining silent until adulthood. Moreover, current studies show a small prevalence in the male population. The osteochondromas usually occur at sites with great bone activity and turnover, such as the diaphysis or metaphyseal plates (especially in children) of long bones. Their appearance in short bones (such as vertebrae) is very rare. CASE PRESENTATION: We present a case of familial HME in a 53-year-old female patient with a very uncommon clinical description of the disease. The patient presented at our hospital with Frankel D-type paraparesis, with multiple osteochondromas (located at the right humerus, bilateral femurs, right tibia, and hip joints, besides the numerous ones over the spinal column) and urinary incontinence. She was suffering from bilateral coxarthrosis and gonarthrosis, which limited severely the range of her movements. An early menopause status was brought into consideration by the patient, being installed circa 15 years before, at 38 years old. She was currently in treatment with bisphosphonates for her concomitant osteoporosis. CONCLUSIONS: Despite the relatively rare nature of the disease, it may be an important concern for the patient's quality of life. Intraspinal processes may trigger paraparesis or other neurological statuses, which may require a surgical treatment. The nature of the lesions is usually benign and do not require further radio- or chemotherapy.

Digital Violence in University Student Couples: England vs. Spain.

This research studies the prevalence of digital violence exercised through new information and communication technology (ICT) among university couples. A comparative study was carried out in England, United Kingdom, and in Spain with 831 participants. A quantitative methodology was applied with different sampling: in the United Kingdom, 303 (MAge = 22.79; SD; 47.32; 58.7% male) and in Spain, 528 (MAge = 24.29; SD = 21.41; 69.5% female). An ad hoc questionnaire was used, created for the detection, measurement and analysis of digital violence within affective-sexual relationships. The results reveal proportions of 51.04% and 49.82% in the perception of digital violence through electronic devices in dating relationships among young people; 15.84% and 11.05% in the prevalence of digital violence in young couples' relationships; 9.36% and 6.17% in the prevalence of traditional violence; and 35.78% and 22.43% in the tolerance of digital violence among students, for the English and Spanish samples, respectively. The results also show a slightly lower prevalence of digital violence in the Spanish sample with respect to the English sample, where females scored slightly higher in the perpetration of digital violence. There is a need to develop awareness, training and prevention programs against digital violence in the university context.

Evaluating the Efficacy of Vagus Nerve Stimulation across 'Minor' and 'Major' Seizure Types: A Retrospective Analysis of Clinical Outcomes in Pharmacoresistant Epilepsy.

Background: Evaluating the differential impact of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) therapy across various seizure types, our study explores its efficacy specifically in patients with categorized minor and major seizures. Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study involving 76 patients with pharmacoresistant epilepsy treated at the University Emergency Hospital of Bucharest between 2021 and 2024. Seizures were classified as 'minor' (including focal-aware and non-motor/absence seizures) and 'major' (including focal to bilateral tonic-clonic and generalized motor seizures), based on modified International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) criteria. This classification allowed us to assess the response to VNS therapy, defined by a 50% or greater reduction in seizure frequency at the 12-month follow-up. Results: Our findings reveal that major seizures respond more favorably to VNS therapy, significantly reducing both frequency and intensity. In contrast, minor seizures showed a less pronounced response in frequency reduction but noted improvements in neurocognitive functions, suggesting a nuanced benefit of VNS in these cases. Conclusion: The study underscores the importance of seizure type in determining the efficacy of VNS therapy, advocating for personalized treatment approaches based on seizure classification. This approach could potentially enhance clinical outcomes by tailoring VNS settings to specific seizure types, improving overall management strategies in pharmacoresistant epilepsy.

Retrospective Analysis of Glioblastoma Outcomes.

This retrospective mono-center study focuses on 144 cases of glioblastoma treated over a time span of 12 years in our clinic in Romania. We offer critical insight into the dreadful aspect of this tumor by highlighting the principal characteristics such as localization, the genetic information of each case, progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS). A tenth of our patients underwent a second surgical procedure, providing a comparable OS to the other part of our study group, proving that surgical treatment as salvage therapy is a viable option. Also, our research reinforces the fact that utilizing the Karnofsky Performance Scale is a great predictor of patient outcomes in glioblastoma patients. Even though radiotherapy and chemotherapy have mild effects in the context of this oncological disease, our research shows that O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) methylation status and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) amplification have an important effect on OS. Moreover, the particularity of our study, that our patients did not start adjuvant therapy right after surgery, highlighted by a low OS compared to the international literature, sheds light on the fact that chemotherapy and radiotherapy must be started right after the surgical procedure, according to the Stupp protocol. To sum up, our research takes into consideration the factors that influence patient survival and outcome in the battle against glioblastoma.

A microRNA Profile Regulates Inflammation-Related Signaling Pathways in Young Women with Locally Advanced Cervical Cancer.

Cervical cancer (CC) remains among the most frequent cancers worldwide despite advances in screening and the development of vaccines against human papillomavirus (HPV), involved in virtually all cases of CC. In mid-income countries, a substantial proportion of the cases are diagnosed in advanced stages, and around 40% of them are diagnosed in women under 49 years, just below the global median age. This suggests that members of this age group share common risk factors, such as chronic inflammation. In this work, we studied samples from 46 patients below 45 years old, searching for a miRNA profile regulating cancer pathways. We found 615 differentially expressed miRNAs between tumor samples and healthy tissues. Through bioinformatic analysis, we found that several of them targeted elements of the JAK/STAT pathway and other inflammation-related pathways. We validated the interactions of miR-30a and miR-34c with JAK1 and STAT3, respectively, through dual-luciferase and expression assays in cervical carcinoma-derived cell lines. Finally, through knockdown experiments, we observed that these miRNAs decreased viability and promoted proliferation in HeLa cells. This work contributes to understanding the mechanisms through which HPV regulates inflammation, in addition to its canonical oncogenic function, and brings attention to the JAK/STAT signaling pathway as a possible diagnostic marker for CC patients younger than 45 years. To our knowledge to date, there has been no previous description of a panel of miRNAs or even ncRNAs in young women with locally advanced cervical cancer.

Kissing Aneurysms of the Anterior Communicating Artery Treated With Surgical Clipping: A Case Report and Literature Review.

Intracranial "kissing" aneurysms are rare vascular conditions described as two anatomically adjacent aneurysms originating from either the same or different arteries, with their walls pressed together. Two-dimensional angiography was formerly considered the gold standard for diagnosis, with the three-dimensional rotational type now offering more insightful details about vascular discrepancies. The treatment of anterior communicating artery (AcoA) "kissing" aneurysms poses significant challenges, with surgical clipping proving difficult due to their deep midline location or the bilateral anterograde arterial supply. However, advancements in endovascular coil embolization, such as dual-volume reconstruction, can assist in diagnosis. This study presents the case of a 50-year-old patient who was diagnosed with "kissing" aneurysms of the AcoA. The patient underwent surgical clipping and showed no pathological follow-up findings. The surgical intervention often provides a more direct and effective approach. This case contributes to the body of knowledge surrounding the management of this complex disease.

Exploring the Implications of Golgi Apparatus Dysfunction in Bone Diseases.

The Golgi apparatus is an organelle responsible for protein processing, sorting, and transport in cells. Recent research has shed light on its possible role in the pathogenesis of various bone diseases. This review seeks to explore its significance in osteoporosis, osteogenesis imperfecta, and other bone conditions such as dysplasias. Numerous lines of evidence demonstrate that perturbations to Golgi apparatus function can disrupt post-translational protein modification, folding and trafficking functions crucial for bone formation, mineralization, and remodeling. Abnormalities related to glycosylation, protein sorting, or vesicular transport in Golgi have been associated with altered osteoblast and osteoclast function, compromised extracellular matrix composition, as well as disrupted signaling pathways involved with homeostasis of bones. Mutations or dysregulation of Golgi-associated proteins, including golgins and coat protein complex I and coat protein complex II coat components, have also been implicated in bone diseases. Such genetic alterations may disrupt Golgi structure, membrane dynamics, and protein transport, leading to bone phenotype abnormalities. Understanding the links between Golgi apparatus dysfunction and bone diseases could provide novel insights into disease pathogenesis and potential therapeutic targets. Future research should focus on unraveling specific molecular mechanisms underlying Golgi dysfunction associated with bone diseases to develop targeted interventions for restoring normal bone homeostasis while decreasing clinical manifestations associated with these issues.

Cerebral Aneurysm Characteristics and Surgical Outcomes: An In-Depth Analysis of 346 Cases Operated Using Microsurgical Clipping.

This comprehensive study analyzes 346 surgically treated intracranial aneurysms, emphasizing the importance of understanding risk factors and prevalent characteristics in patients. Intracranial aneurysms, primarily of the saccular or berry type, significantly contribute to nontraumatic subarachnoid hemorrhages and demonstrate a rising incidence due to advances in imaging techniques. The study highlights a gender discrepancy in aneurysm occurrence and a higher prevalence in individuals over 30 years old. The research delves into various aspects, including aneurysm localization, diameter, neck dimensions, and rupture status, with a focus on the anterior communicating artery and middle communicating artery as predominant locations. Significant findings include the prevalence of ruptured aneurysms and the impact of arterial hypertension, atherosclerosis, obesity, and diabetes on aneurysm epidemiology. The study also investigates the occurrence of vasospasm, a significant factor in delayed morbidity and mortality in aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage. The utilization of the Glasgow Outcome Scale and other quantification scales aids in understanding the severity and postoperative outcomes of intracranial aneurysms. Challenges such as the incidence of reopenings and postoperative osteomyelitis are addressed, underlining the need for refined protocols and multidisciplinary approaches in treatment. The study's results contribute to the existing knowledge base on intracranial aneurysms, emphasizing the importance of ongoing research and tailored treatment strategies. The comprehensive nature of this analysis, covering preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative factors, provides valuable insights into the complex interplay of risk factors and clinical outcomes in patients with intracranial aneurysms.

Genomic Determinants of Knee Joint Biomechanics: An Exploration into the Molecular Basis of Locomotor Function, a Narrative Review.

In recent years, the nexus between genetics and biomechanics has garnered significant attention, elucidating the role of genomic determinants in shaping the biomechanical attributes of human joints, specifically the knee. This review seeks to provide a comprehensive exploration of the molecular basis underlying knee joint locomotor function. Leveraging advancements in genomic sequencing, we identified specific genetic markers and polymorphisms tied to key biomechanical features of the knee, such as ligament elasticity, meniscal resilience, and cartilage health. Particular attention was devoted to collagen genes like COL1A1 and COL5A1 and their influence on ligamentous strength and injury susceptibility. We further investigated the genetic underpinnings of knee osteoarthritis onset and progression, as well as the potential for personalized rehabilitation strategies tailored to an individual's genetic profile. We reviewed the impact of genetic factors on knee biomechanics and highlighted the importance of personalized orthopedic interventions. The results hold significant implications for injury prevention, treatment optimization, and the future of regenerative medicine, targeting not only knee joint health but joint health in general.

Extensive Intracranial Meningioma With Dehiscences: A Case Report.

This case report elucidates the clinical and surgical journey of a 62-year-old patient with a history of multiple comorbidities including a severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS­CoV­2) infection, presenting with temporospatial disorientation, bradypsychia, and bradyphasia, without motor deficits, diagnosed with sarcomatous meningioma and skull lysis. Amidst the complexities of managing primary brain tumors, this report underscores the significance of thorough morphopathological examination, while considering patient demographics and tumor localization in assessing the nature of the neoplasm. It highlights meningiomas as predominantly benign yet stemming from monoclonal proliferation, with their occurrence influenced by genetic predispositions and environmental factors such as ionizing radiation exposure. The intricate case details multiple surgical interventions necessitated by complications such as wound dehiscence and cerebrospinal fluid leaks, managed successfully through a tailored neurosurgical approach and meticulous postoperative care. This narrative reinforces the pivotal role of interdisciplinary collaboration, with substantial contributions from radiology, anesthesiology, intensive care, cardiology, infectious disease, and rehabilitation medicine in achieving favorable outcomes. The discussion contextualizes the patient's condition within the broader neurosurgical literature, reflecting on the prognostic factors associated with giant meningiomas and the impact of factors like age and tumor location on resection outcomes. The case also delves into the efficacy of Gamma Knife radiosurgery in long-term tumor control, drawing on retrospective analyses. In conclusion, the case report advocates for a nuanced, individualized treatment, where the integration of multiple disciplines and responsive management of postoperative complications is critical to patient recovery. The successful resolution of this patient's condition exemplifies the quintessential nature of interdisciplinary collaboration and highlights the potential for optimizing neurosurgical protocols in the context of complex patient profiles.

Case Study of a Complex Neurovascular Disorder: Choroidal Arteriovenous Malformation.

This study conducts an in-depth analysis of the management of a complex arteriovenous malformation (AVM) in a 44-year-old individual, who initially manifested with acute left hemiparesis and progressively declined into a comatose state. Diagnostic neuroimaging identified a substantial right fronto-temporal intraparenchymal hematoma via a CT scan. Cerebral angiography further elucidated a choroidal AVM originating from the anterior choroidal artery, accompanied by intranidal aneurysms. The elected treatment strategy was the surgical excision of the AVM. The procedure achieved complete removal of the intracranial AVM, situated in a neurologically sensitive region, leading to notable neurological recovery. This study thoroughly explores and critically evaluates a wide spectrum of treatment approaches for intracranial arteriovenous malformations, including novel endovascular therapies. Despite extensive discourse on AVM in contemporary literature, this report is among the few documenting the treatment of a choroidal AVM via a microsurgical technique, and highlights various therapeutic options.

Plasminogen activation and plasmin inhibition during in vitro fertilization in bovine: implications for fertilization parameters and early embryo development.

Components of the plasminogen/plasmin system, known to be present in the oocyte, play a key role in maturation and fertilization. The objective of this study was to examine the effect of plasminogen activation and plasmin inhibition by exogenous supplementation of the IVF medium with streptokinase (SK) or ɛ-aminocaproic acid (ε-ACA), respectively, on fertilization parameters and preimplantation embryo development. After in vitro maturation, bovine cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were inseminated in the presence of SK or ε-ACA. The addition of SK to the IVF medium facilitated the adhesion of the spermatozoa to the zona pellucida without affecting the percentages of monospermy. Cleavage rates and blastocyst yield were similar between the SK and Control groups while they were lower with the ε-ACA treatment. Additionally, we found that the expression levels of embryo quality-related genes (SDHA and DNMT3A) could be modified in blastocysts by the addition of SK or ε-ACA during IVF. The results obtained indicate that supplementation of the IVF medium with SK did not greatly alter the embryonic developmental parameters related to embryo quality in blastocysts. Moreover, we noticed that ε-ACA treatment compromises the success of in vitro embryo development, thus highlighting the importance of the plasminogen/plasmin activity during the early stages of embryogenesis in bovine.

Actitudes, conocimiento y percepción del personal asistencial de centros geriátricos de larga duración sobre las expresiones sexuales de los residentes. Revisión sistemática / Attitudes, knowledge and perceptions of care staff in long-term care homes about residents’ sexual expressions. Systematic review

Las manifestaciones sexuales de los residentes de centros geriátricos de larga duración no suelen tenerse en cuenta e incluso son desalentadas por el personal asistencial. El objetivo de este estudio fue realizar una revisión sistemática sobre las actitudes, los conocimientos y las percepciones del personal asistencial sobre dichas manifestaciones sexuales. Tras la consulta en distintas bases de datos, 10 artículos científicos publicados entre 2012 y 2022 cumplieron los criterios de inclusión para formar parte de dicha revisión. Este trabajo ha permitido conocer y estructurar la insuficiente literatura científica referida a esta área concreta de la sexualidad en adultos mayores. Se concluye que existe escasa literatura científica y que las áreas revisadas son determinantes en el cuidado diario de adultos mayores institucionalizados. Ampliar en este campo de estudio permitirá crear programas de formación y afrontamiento de las conductas sexuales de los mayores institucionalizados por parte del personal asistencial. (AU)

The sexual manifestations of residents in long-term care facilities are often overlooked and even discouraged by care staff. The aim of this study was to conduct a systematic review of caregivers’ attitudes, knowledge and perceptions of sexual expression. After consulting different databases, ten scientific articles published between 2012 and 2022 met the inclusion criteria to form part of this review. This work has made it possible to identify and structure the insufficient scientific literature on this specific area of sexuality in older adults. It is concluded that there is scarce scientific literature and that the areas reviewed are determinant in the daily care of institutionalised older adults. Expanding in this field of study will allow the creation of training programmes and the creation of programmes for the care staff to deal with the sexual behaviour of institutionalised older adults. (AU)

Low-Grade Gliomas: Histological Subtypes, Molecular Mechanisms, and Treatment Strategies.

Low-Grade Gliomas (LGGs) represent a diverse group of brain tumors originating from glial cells, characterized by their unique histopathological and molecular features. This article offers a comprehensive exploration of LGGs, shedding light on their subtypes, histological and molecular aspects. By delving into the World Health Organization's grading system, 5th edition, various specificities were added due to an in-depth understanding of emerging laboratory techniques, especially genomic analysis. Moreover, treatment modalities are extensively discussed. The degree of surgical resection should always be considered according to postoperative quality of life and cognitive status. Adjuvant therapies focused on chemotherapy and radiotherapy depend on tumor grading and invasiveness. In the current literature, emerging targeted molecular therapies are well discussed due to their succinctly therapeutic effect; in our article, those therapies are summarized based on posttreatment results and possible adverse effects. This review serves as a valuable resource for clinicians, researchers, and medical professionals aiming to deepen their knowledge on LGGs and enhance patient care.

Somatic Copy Number Alterations in Colorectal Cancer Lead to a Differentially Expressed ceRNA Network (ceRNet).

Colorectal cancer (CRC) represents the second deadliest malignancy worldwide. Around 75% of CRC patients exhibit high levels of chromosome instability that result in the accumulation of somatic copy number alterations. These alterations are associated with the amplification of oncogenes and deletion of tumor-ppressor genes and contribute to the tumoral phenotype in different malignancies. Even though this relationship is well known, much remains to be investigated regarding the effect of said alterations in long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and, in turn, the impact these alterations have on the tumor phenotype. The present study aimed to evaluate the role of differentially expressed lncRNAs coded in regions with copy number alterations in colorectal cancer patient samples. We downloaded RNA-seq files of the Colorectal Adenocarcinoma Project from the The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) repository (285 sequenced tumor tissues and 41 non-tumor tissues), evaluated differential expression, and mapped them over genome sequencing data with regions presenting copy number alterations. We obtained 78 differentially expressed (LFC > 1|< -1, padj < 0.05) lncRNAs, 410 miRNAs, and 5028 mRNAs and constructed a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network, predicting significant lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA interactions. Said network consisted of 30 lncRNAs, 19 miRNAs, and 77 mRNAs. To understand the role that our ceRNA network played, we performed KEGG and GO analysis and found several oncogenic and anti-oncogenic processes enriched by the molecular players in our network. Finally, to evaluate the clinical relevance of the lncRNA expression, we performed survival analysis and found that C5orf64, HOTAIR, and RRN3P3 correlated with overall patient survival. Our results showed that lncRNAs coded in regions affected by SCNAs form a complex gene regulatory network in CCR.

From Recognition to Remedy: The Significance of Biomarkers in Neurodegenerative Disease Pathology.

With the inexorable aging of the global populace, neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) like Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) pose escalating challenges, which are underscored by their socioeconomic repercussions. A pivotal aspect in addressing these challenges lies in the elucidation and application of biomarkers for timely diagnosis, vigilant monitoring, and effective treatment modalities. This review delineates the quintessence of biomarkers in the realm of NDs, elucidating various classifications and their indispensable roles. Particularly, the quest for novel biomarkers in AD, transcending traditional markers in PD, and the frontier of biomarker research in ALS are scrutinized. Emergent susceptibility and trait markers herald a new era of personalized medicine, promising enhanced treatment initiation especially in cases of SOD1-ALS. The discourse extends to diagnostic and state markers, revolutionizing early detection and monitoring, alongside progression markers that unveil the trajectory of NDs, propelling forward the potential for tailored interventions. The synergy between burgeoning technologies and innovative techniques like -omics, histologic assessments, and imaging is spotlighted, underscoring their pivotal roles in biomarker discovery. Reflecting on the progress hitherto, the review underscores the exigent need for multidisciplinary collaborations to surmount the challenges ahead, accelerate biomarker discovery, and herald a new epoch of understanding and managing NDs. Through a panoramic lens, this article endeavors to provide a comprehensive insight into the burgeoning field of biomarkers in NDs, spotlighting the promise they hold in transforming the diagnostic landscape, enhancing disease management, and illuminating the pathway toward efficacious therapeutic interventions.

Unraveling the Multifaceted Role of the Golgi Apparatus: Insights into Neuronal Plasticity, Development, Neurogenesis, Alzheimer's Disease, and SARS-CoV-2 Interactions.

This article critically evaluates the multifunctional role of the Golgi apparatus within neurological paradigms. We succinctly highlight its influence on neuronal plasticity, development, and the vital trafficking and sorting mechanisms for proteins and lipids. The discourse further navigates to its regulatory prominence in neurogenesis and its implications in Alzheimer's Disease pathogenesis. The emerging nexus between the Golgi apparatus and SARS-CoV-2 underscores its potential in viral replication processes. This consolidation accentuates the Golgi apparatus's centrality in neurobiology and its intersections with both neurodegenerative and viral pathologies. In essence, understanding the Golgi's multifaceted functions harbors profound implications for future therapeutic innovations in neurological and viral afflictions.

Intracranial Aneurysms and Genetics: An Extensive Overview of Genomic Variations, Underlying Molecular Dynamics, Inflammatory Indicators, and Forward-Looking Insights.

This review initiates by outlining the clinical relevance of IA, underlining the pressing need to comprehend its foundational elements. We delve into the assorted risk factors tied to IA, spotlighting both environmental and genetic influences. Additionally, we illuminate distinct genetic syndromes linked to a pronounced prevalence of intracranial aneurysms, underscoring the pivotal nature of genetics in this ailment's susceptibility. A detailed scrutiny of genome-wide association studies allows us to identify key genomic changes and locations associated with IA risk. We further detail the molecular and physiopathological dynamics instrumental in IA's evolution and escalation, with a focus on inflammation's role in affecting the vascular landscape. Wrapping up, we offer a glimpse into upcoming research directions and the promising horizons of personalized therapeutic strategies in IA intervention, emphasizing the central role of genetic insights. This thorough review solidifies genetics' cardinal role in IA, positioning it as a cornerstone resource for professionals in the realms of neurology and genomics.

Integrative Approaches in Acute Ischemic Stroke: From Symptom Recognition to Future Innovations.

Among the high prevalence of cerebrovascular diseases nowadays, acute ischemic stroke stands out, representing a significant worldwide health issue with important socio-economic implications. Prompt diagnosis and intervention are important milestones for the management of this multifaceted pathology, making understanding the various stroke-onset symptoms crucial. A key role in acute ischemic stroke management is emphasizing the essential role of a multi-disciplinary team, therefore, increasing the efficiency of recognition and treatment. Neuroimaging and neuroradiology have evolved dramatically over the years, with multiple approaches that provide a higher understanding of the morphological aspects as well as timely recognition of cerebral artery occlusions for effective therapy planning. Regarding the treatment matter, the pharmacological approach, particularly fibrinolytic therapy, has its merits and challenges. Endovascular thrombectomy, a game-changer in stroke management, has witnessed significant advances, with technologies like stent retrievers and aspiration catheters playing pivotal roles. For select patients, combining pharmacological and endovascular strategies offers evidence-backed benefits. The aim of our comprehensive study on acute ischemic stroke is to efficiently compare the current therapies, recognize novel possibilities from the literature, and describe the state of the art in the interdisciplinary approach to acute ischemic stroke. As we aspire for holistic patient management, the emphasis is not just on medical intervention but also on physical therapy, mental health, and community engagement. The future holds promising innovations, with artificial intelligence poised to reshape stroke diagnostics and treatments. Bridging the gap between groundbreaking research and clinical practice remains a challenge, urging continuous collaboration and research.

Road Impact on Plant Colonization in the Arid Timanfaya National Park.

Roads have the potential to alter local environmental conditions, such as the availability of water and nutrients, and rapidly create suitable habitats for the establishment of both native and non-native plant species, transforming the ecosystems. This is a challenge in Timanfaya National Park and Los Volcanes Natural Park on Lanzarote Island, protected areas that have experienced primary succession after recent volcanic eruptions. In arid ecosystems, changes in abiotic conditions along roadsides might facilitate colonization and plant growth. We analyzed the effect of roads and road type on plant species composition and richness at a spatiotemporal scale. Vascular plant species were systematically recorded at three distances from the road edge on both sides, across fourteen zones in the wet and dry seasons, for three years. Results showed that there were slight differences on species composition depending on the distance to the road edge, as well as on the zones. Species richness was also determined by the interaction of the position, zones, and season, being higher at the road edge. Furthermore, zones with higher traffic intensity showed a higher presence of both native and non-native species. This study highlights the importance of the awareness about the road impacts on species composition by enhancing the colonization capacity of species while facilitating the entry of invasive ones. Good management practices regarding infrastructures in natural protected areas are crucial for the conservation of their unique flora, landscapes, and natural succession processes.