Search

The co-processing of different wastes as fuels in the manufacture of cement clinker not only meets the objectives of a circular economy but also contributes to the reduction in CO2 emissions in the manufacture of Portland cement. However, waste used as alternative fuels, such as sludge or organic-rich residues, may contain naturally occurring radionuclides that can be concentrated during the combustion process. In this study, the presence of natural radionuclides (radioactive series of uranium, thorium, and 40K) and anthropogenic radionuclides (137Cs) in these wastes has been investigated by gamma spectrometry. Possible relationships between the radioactive content and the obtained chemical composition, determined by X-ray fluorescence, have also been studied by applying a principal component analysis (PCA). The results showed that the wastes with the highest radioactive content were sewage sludge with activity concentrations of 238U and 210Pb of 321 ± 38 Bq kg−1 and 110 ± 14 Bq kg−1, respectively. A correlation between radioactive content and Fe2O3 concentration was also observed. The annual effective dose rates to workers for the ashes estimated from the ash content ranged from 0.0033 mSv to 0.092 mSv and therefore do not pose a risk to workers as they are lower than the 1 mSv per year limit for the general public (DIRECTIVE 2013/59/EURATOM). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Governments, companies and citizens around the world consider necessary to adopt a new circular economy (CE) model that allows solving the planet's environmental challenges and guaranteeing sustainable economic growth. Europe advocates this philosophy, but there is no widely accepted index to measure CE implementation at a macro level. This paper proposes a new index based on principal component analysis for European Union countries that use all information available without losing any information by the dimensionality reduction and consider objective weights based on the percentage of variance that each one retains. Moreover, we develop a disaggregated analysis considering the CE dimensions set out in the 'CE monitoring framework', allowing a more comprehensive analysis than when using a single indicator of CE implementation. This method is also used to build an index of the degree of achievement of the sustainable development goals (SDGs) to see how they relate to the CE; the relationships between CE dimensions; and between SDGs. The results by geographical areas reveal a higher level of CE implementation in western European and EU-15 countries, with Luxembourg, Austria, Denmark, the Netherlands and Belgium alternately holding the top positions depending on the CE dimension considered. Therefore, the new European countries and the countries in the east must encourage measures to improve the implementation of the economy. In addition, there is a positive, strong and significant relationship with SDGs 8, 9 and 11, with both the overall CE implementation index and the disaggregated indices, and a negative one with 7 and 15. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sport is a social phenomenon with economic repercussions, which is why the objective of the research is to analyze the socioeconomic impact of Cuba's sports results in the Olympic Games. The research methodology starts from the postulates of the materialist dialectics of the reality investigated from its historicity, systematicity, and its systemic character. Using an external secondary information source, the results of Cuba in the 26 events held to date from 1896–2020 were analyzed, as well as the composition of the sports industry and its relation with Cuban society. This study also includes a bibliometric study of 5178 words and a statistical analysis from the sports and teaching perspective, and ends with a prospective analysis of systemic excellence using the MICMAC software. The results show that the socioeconomic impact of Cuban sport is very relevant, thus fulfilling the hypotheses posed. El deporte es un fenómeno social con repercusión económica; es por tanto objetivo de la investigación, analizar el impacto socioeconómico de los resultados deportivos de Cuba en los Juegos Olímpicos. La metodología de la investigación parte de los postulados de la dialéctica materialista de la realidad investigada desde la historicidad, sistematicidad y su carácter sistémico. Se analizaron los resultados de Cuba en los 26 eventos realizados hasta la fecha desde 1896–2020, utilizando una fuente de información secundaria externa, así como la composición de la industria deportiva y su relación con la sociedad cubana. Este trabajo también incluye un estudio bibliométrico de 5178 palabras y un análisis estadístico desde la perspectiva deportiva y docente, y finaliza con un análisis prospectivo de la excelencia sistémica mediante el programa informático MICMAC. Los resultados demuestran que el impacto socioeconómico del deporte cubano es muy relevante, cumpliéndose así las hipótesis planteadas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The term ”Artificial Intelligence” was coined in 1956 at a conference at Dartmouth College and since then it has undergone constant development and has evolved radically. Prominent pioneers of the term include John McCarthy, Marvin Minsky, Allen Newell, and Herbert A. Simon. The application of AI in education worldwide has increased dramatically with its importance growing at an increasing rate. The objective of this research is to bibliometrically analyze applications of AI in contemporary education. The methodology includes a Prisma of the articles of three fundamental databases: Scopus (n=390), Mendeley (n=113), and Science Direct (n=3,594). A total of n=4,097 articles in English and Spanish were analyzed. The systematic literature review of recent works employed a mixed approach using quantitative and qualitative methods. It was inferred by the authors that AI is revolutionizing education by offering personalized and efficient solutions to improve students’ learning. One of the main conclusions of this research is that in contemporary education, students are one of the groups that are most affected by AI. Furthermore, the human intelligence of teachers plays a fundamental role since they adapt their methodologies to leverage new technologies. Finally, it is worth noting that decisions made in schools and universities support new educational models based on technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) is one of the most frequent HIV-related neoplasms, and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most common subtype. In people with HIV (PWH), DLBCL classically presents with aggressive characteristics. As in the general population, HIV-related DLBCL is a heterogeneous disease that includes morphological and molecular subtypes. When combined antiretroviral therapy (cART) became widely available, a strong improvement of the immune function and a better management of infectious complications during lymphoma treatment were observed in PWH with lymphoma. Moreover, the concomitant treatment of cART with chemotherapy was shown to be beneficial. These changes have led to a marked improvement in prognosis for PWH with DLBCL, approaching that of the general population. Despite the widespread use of combined antiretroviral therapy (cART) and the subsequent decrease in AIDS-defining cancers, HIV-related lymphomas remain a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in people with HIV (PWH). Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most common non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) subtype in PWH. This lymphoma is a heterogeneous disease including morphological variants and molecular subtypes according to the cell of origin or the mutation profile. In the pre-cART era, treatment with standard-dose chemotherapy induced high rates of toxicity and outcomes were very poor. The introduction of cART and the incorporation of infection prophylaxis allowed the use of conventional intensive chemotherapy regimens used in the general population, such as R-CHOP or R-EPOCH. The use of cART during chemotherapy treatment was initially controversial due to the potential risk of adverse drug–drug interactions. However, the availability of current cART regimens with less potential to cause drug interactions and evidence that cART improves survival rates in NHL strongly support the use of cART in PWH with DLBCL. Consequently, interdisciplinary collaboration between HIV specialists and hemato-oncologists for the management of potential interactions and overlapping toxicities between antiretroviral and antineoplastic drugs is crucial for the optimal treatment of PWH with NHL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Migration is undoubtedly one of the oldest demographic variables. Human beings by their nature have been driven for various reasons to explore other territories. However, currently migration is generally caused by various factors not being quite right in the issuing country, and/or by the receiving country offering better opportunities. This article addresses one of the most controversial issues in Cuban society, the impact of emigrating. The idea is to address where and why Cubans emigrate as well as its socioeconomic implications, based on an interpretive paradigm grounded in the conceptualisation of what emigrating means in theory, and the causes of this socioeconomic phenomenon in Cuba. Although previous studies on Cuban migration have focused on the exodus to the United States, this is not the only destination, as Cubans have increasingly emigrated to various other countries as well in recent years. La migración constituye sin dudas una de las variables demográficas más antiguas, el ser humano por naturaleza se ha visto impulsado por diversos motivos a explorar otros territorios. Sin embargo, en la actualidad la migración puede ser sinónimo que ciertos factores no estén del todo bien en el país emisor, y/o que el receptor ofrezca mejores oportunidades. Este artículo aborda uno de los temas más polémicos de la sociedad cubana, el impacto de emigrar. La idea es abordar a dónde y por qué emigran los cubanos, así como sus implicaciones socioeconómicas, basado en el paradigma interpretativo desde la conceptualización de lo que emigrar en teoría significa y las causales de ese fenómeno socioeconómico en Cuba. Si bien los estudios precedentes sobre emigración cubana se centran en el éxodo hacia Estados Unidos, este no es el único destino, pues los cubanos han emigrado a diversos países en los últimos años. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE To characterize epidemiological, clinical, radiographic, and echocardiographic features of cardiac diseases in guinea pigs examined at a referral exotics center. ANIMALS 80 guinea pigs. PROCEDURES Medical records of guinea pigs that had echocardiography performed between June 2010 and January 2021 were reviewed. RESULTS The percentage of guinea pig patients with cardiovascular disease was 2.8%. Clinical signs included dyspnea (46/80), lethargy (18/80), and anorexia (10/80). The most common physical examination finding was heart murmur (10/80). Radiographic abnormalities included subjective cardiomegaly (37/67), pleural effusion (21/67), and increased lung opacity (40/67). Median (range) vertebral heart score on right lateral (48/67) and ventrodorsal (39/67) projections was 9.0 vertebrae (6.6 to 13.2 vertebrae) and 10.8 vertebrae (7.9 to 13.2 vertebrae), respectively. The most common echocardiographic diagnosis was cardiomyopathy (30/80), categorized as restrictive (11/30), hypertrophic (10/30), or dilated (9/10). Other cardiac diseases included cor pulmonale (21/80), pericardial effusion (18/80), congenital heart disease (6/80), acquired valvular disease (3/80), and cardiovascular mass (2/80). Congestive heart failure was present in 36 of 80. Median survival time from diagnosis was 2.5 months (95% Cl, 1.1 to 6.2 months). Animals that died from heart disease had a significantly shorter survival time than those that died from a noncardiac disease (P = .02). CLINICAL RELEVANCE On radiographs, cardiomegaly, pleural effusion, and alveolar or interstitial lung pattern should be considered as indications for echocardiography in guinea pigs. Cardiomyopathy (restrictive, hypertrophic, or dilated), cor pulmonale, and pericardial effusion were the most common echocardiographic diagnoses. Further studies on diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular diseases in guinea pigs are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The manufacture of Portland cement entails high energy and environmental costs, and various solutions have been implemented in recent years to mitigate this negative impact. These solutions include improvements in the manufacture of cement clinker or the use of supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs), such as fly ash (FA) or slag as a replacement for a portion of the clinker in cement. The incorporation of these SCMs in cement may increase its radiological content as they are naturally occurring radioactive materials (NORMs). The Activity Concentration Index (ACI) is a screening tool established in the European EURATOM Directive 2013/59 to determine the radiation protection suitability of a final construction material. The ACI is determined by the activity concentrations of 226Ra, 232Th and 40K, usually determined by gamma spectrometry. The methodology of gamma spectrometry is accurate and appropriate, but this technique is not available in all laboratories. For this reason, and taking into account that there is a relationship between the chemical and radiological composition of these building materials, a new approach is proposed to determine the radiological content of these materials from a chemical analysis such as X-ray fluorescence (XRF). In this paper, principal component analysis (PCA) is used to establish the relationships between the chemical composition and radiological content of cements, FAs, and slags of different natures. Through PCA it was possible to group the cements based on two variables: CaO content and Fe2O3–Al2O3–TiO2 content. A lower correlation was observed for the FAs and slags, as the sample scores were centered around the origin of the coordinates and showed greater dispersion than the cements. The clusters obtained in the HJ–Biplots allowed the determination, using multiple regression, of models relating the activity concentration of 226Ra, 232Th (212Pb), and 40K to the oxide percentages obtained for the three matrices studied. The models were validated using five cements, one FA and one slag with relative percentage deviations (RSD(%)) equal to or less than 30% for 89% of the activity concentrations and 100% of the ACI determined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wind energy production has had accelerated growth in recent years, reaching an annual increase of 17% in 2021. Wind speed plays a crucial role in the stability required for power grid operation. However, wind intermittency makes accurate forecasting a complicated process. Implementing new technologies has allowed the development of hybrid models and techniques, improving wind speed forecasting accuracy. Additionally, statistical and artificial intelligence methods, especially artificial neural networks, have been applied to enhance the results. However, there is a concern about identifying the main factors influencing the forecasting process and providing a basis for estimation with artificial neural network models. This paper reviews and classifies the forecasting models used in recent years according to the input model type, the pre-processing and post-processing technique, the artificial neural network model, the prediction horizon, the steps ahead number, and the evaluation metric. The research results indicate that artificial neural network (ANN)-based models can provide accurate wind forecasting and essential information about the specific location of potential wind use for a power plant by understanding the future wind speed values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

El presente artículo tiene como objetivo explorar a través de la herramienta metodológica de la narrativa, las formas en que jóvenes universitarios viven y experimentan las diversas formas de violencia escolar, tanto a través del ciberespacio como en sus manifestaciones cotidianas en el contexto donde conviven. La idea de que la escuela es un lugar de encuentro para la convivencia se va desvaneciendo cuando la violencia entra y sale de la misma, desplazándose rápidamente en formas múltiples de agresiones y ataques en las redes sociales entre las y los universitarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to explore the effects of callous-unemotional (CU) traits on disruptive behavior during the ages of 11 and 12 while considering main and moderating influences associated with pubertal development (PD), distinguishing outcomes by sex. This longitudinal study of a Spanish community sample explores children at ages 11 (n = 447, M = 11.6, SD = 0.3) and 12 (n = 360, M = 12.8, SD = 0.3). Separate linear regression models were estimated according to age and sex and for each analyzed outcome of disruptive behavior. Significant interactions between CU traits and PD in boys at age 11, and in girls at age 12, on disruptive behavior were found. Specifically, the odds of disruptive behavior increased with higher CU scores only in boys with medium or high PD and in girls with low or medium PD. CU traits were directly associated with higher externalizing problem scores reported by teachers, regardless of PD level for both boys and girls. There are sex-specific patterns in the relationship between CU traits, PD, and disruptive behavior in children aged 11 and 12. CU traits and PD should be considered when assessing and treating disruptive behavior in clinical practice. • The effect of CU traits on disruptive behavior is moderated by sex and pubertal development. • The probability of showing disruptive behavior increases in boys with both high CU traits and pubertal development. • For girls, the probability of engaging in disruptive behavior increases when they show high CU traits but low pubertal development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This longitudinal study aims to provide meaningful cutoff scores for total score of the teacher-rated Inventory of Callous-Unemotional Traits (ICU) from the preschool age until early adolescence, separately by age and sex. The ICU cutoff scores were determined by using low/high trajectories of oppositional defiant problems (ODP) and conduct problems in a Spanish community sample of 620 children that were followed up between the ages of 3 and 13. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves with the two trajectories as criteria and ICU total score at each age as a predictor were estimated by sex separately, and the area under the ROC curve (AUC) was obtained. Average ICU cutoff scores of 26 for boys and 22 for girls were found to be of moderate utility for the prediction of high trajectories of each of ODP and conduct problems. They identified cases with an average sensitivity of 66% and specificity of 70% for boys and an average sensitivity of 69% and specificity of 72% for girls. The obtained cutoff scores might help clinical practitioners in their decision-making process when identifying low and high-risk groups of children. Public Significance Statement: This study provides cutoff scores for the teacher-rated Inventory of Callous-Unemotional Traits in a community sample spanning early childhood until early adolescence, separately by age and sex. Cutoff scores of 26 for boys and 22 for girls are of moderate utility for the prediction of high trajectories of each of oppositional defiant problems and conduct problems. The obtained cutoff scores might help clinical practitioners in their decision-making process when identifying low and high-risk groups of children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Green environments are associated with improved child brain development and mental health. We study cross-sectionally the association of the availability of greenspace at home and school with obsessive-compulsive behaviors (OCB) in primary schoolchildren. Greenspace and tree cover surrounding home and school of 378 children aged 9 to 10 in Barcelona (Spain) were characterized using satellite-based indices [Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), Modified Soil Adjusted Vegetation Index (MSAVI), Vegetation Continuous Field (VCF)] across buffers of 100, 300, and 500 m, and distance to the nearest green space. OCB was assessed with the Spence Children's Anxiety Scale-Parent version. Linear and mixed effects models showed that greenspace at school, but not at home, was significantly related to a reduction in OCB across buffers, with benefits for girls and also children with graduate parents. Higher greenspace around the school might be associated with less obsessive-compulsive behavior in primary schoolchildren, especially in girls and those with higher socioeconomic status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study is to assess whether the carbonation process can modify the physicochemical characteristics of the natural radionuclides of the three natural radioactive series, together with 40K. Three mortar specimens with different percentages of ground granulated blast-furnace slag (GGBFS), cured under water for 1, 3, 7, 14, or 28 days, were subjected to a natural carbonation process. Activity concentrations for the solid and ground mortars were determined by gamma spectrometry and by radiochemical separation of isotopic uranium. The novelty of this paper relies principally on the study we have carried out, for the first time, of the radiological characteristics of carbonated Portland cement mortars. It was found that the chemical properties of the 3 mortar specimens were not affected by the carbonation process, with particular attention placed on uranium (238U, 235U, and 234U), the activity concentrations of which were equivalent to the 226Ra results and ranged from 5.5 ± 1.6 Bq kg−1 to 21.4 ± 1.2 Bq kg−1 for the 238U. The average activity concentrations for the 3 types of mortars were lower than 20.1 Bq kg−1, 14.5 Bq kg−1, and 120.2 Bq kg−1 for the 226Ra, 232Th (212Pb), and 40K, respectively. Annual effective dose rates were equivalent to the natural background of 0.024 mSv. In addition, it was observed that the variation rate for the 222Rn emanation was due primarily to the Portland cement hydration and not due to the pore size redistribution as a consequence of the carbonation process. This research will provide new insights into the potential radiological risk from carbonated cement-based materials. Moreover, the assessment that is presented in this study will convey valuable information for future research that will explore the activity concentration of building materials containing NORM materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This protocol aims to characterize patients with dual disorders (DD; comorbid major depression and schizophrenia) compared with patients with only a diagnosis of substance use disorder (SUD) and those with only a diagnosis of severe mental illness (SMI; major depression and schizophrenia), evaluating clinical and personality characteristics, circadian rhythmic functioning, genetic polymorphism and neuropsychological performance in order to obtain a clinical endophenotype of differential vulnerability for these diagnostic entities. Patients will be divided into three groups: DD (45 men with comorbid schizophrenia, 45 men and 30 women with major depression), SUD (n = 90, with a minimum of 30 women) and SMI males (45 with schizophrenia, 45 with major depression). All patients will be under treatment, with at least three months of SUD abstinence and/or with SMI in remission or with stabilized symptoms. Outpatients of both sexes with insufficient restoration of circadian rhythmicity with SUD (n = 30) and dual depression (n = 30) will be asked to participate in a second two-month study, being alternately assigned to the condition of the chronobiological adjuvant approach to the treatment of regular hour habits and exposure to light or to the usual treatment (control). The effect of the intervention and patient compliance will be monitored with a Kronowise KW6® ambulatory device during the first two weeks of treatment and again at weeks 4 and 8 weeks. After completing the evaluation, follow-up of the clinical evolution will be carried out at 3, 6 and 12 months. This project will allow us to analyze the functional impact of DD comorbidity and to develop the first study of chronobiological therapy in the treatment of SUD and dual depression, with results transferable to the clinical setting with cost-effective recommendations for a personalized approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Building fire-adaptive communities and fostering fire-resilient landscapes have become two of the main research strands of wildfire science that go beyond strictly biophysical viewpoints and call for the integration of complementary visions of landscapes and the communities living there, with their legacy of knowledge and subjective dimensions. Both indigenous fire management (IFM) and local fire management (LFM) are rooted in traditional fire knowledge and are among the most important contributions that rural communities can make to management partnerships. Focusing specifically on traditional fire knowledge (TFK), we examine the scholarly literature on TFK using a thematic synthesis approach. We extract themes from the literature and cluster and synthesize them into four analytical themes: (a) TFK within the fire ecology global research field; (b) the role of TFK in integrated fire management; (c) governance; and (d) TFK within global fire management research needs. Who the researchers are, the topics they study, how they approach these topics, and where they focus can help us also to understand possible biases in their contributions to the topics. The analysis conducted reveals the existing gap in current research on local fire knowledge among non-Indigenous populations. This paper offers a call to action to include indigenous and non-indigenous local knowledge and voices on this important topic. Evidence drawn from the thematic synthesis of the literature can help to re-focus research and awareness on this multidisciplinary phenomenon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Within-person analysis of data from longitudinal designs has become popular in the field. However, important characteristics of the design can influence that variability. In this paper, we examine how the number of measurement points obtained per participant influences in the within-person variance in work motivation. Using two sources of evidence (a systematic review and an empirical study) we show how the number of assessments substantially influences the amount of within-person variance reaching values of 52%-54% of total variance. We found that a minimum of 25-30 measurement points per participant is required to be rigorous. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: 'Karaerik' is a novel table grape (Vitis vinifera L.) native to Turkey and widely cultivated in areas bordering the city of Erzincan. Because of the demonstrated beneficial effects on human health of the grape phenolic composition, the aim of this work was to conduct a detailed profiling of non‐anthocyanin phenolic fractions from different grape tissues of the 'Karaerik' table grape. Both qualitative and quantitative characterization of phenolic compounds were achieved using high‐performance liquid chromatography–diode array detection–electrospray ionization–tandem mass spectrometry. Total phenolic content and oxygen radical absorbance capacity were also determined to evaluate the antioxidant properties of this table grape. RESULTS: A high number of non‐anthocyanin phenolic compounds was identified in 'Karaerik' table grape skins and seeds, including 11 flavonols, six hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives, two stilbenes, several monomeric and dimeric flavan‐3‐ols and proanthocyanidins. Quercetin‐type derivatives dominated the flavonol profile of grape skins, followed by myricetin type. Tartaric acid esters of three acids (caffeic, coumaric and ferulic acids) were the main hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives in this cultivar. Qualitative and quantitative differences were observed in flavan‐3‐ol composition among the grape tissues. Proanthocyanidins were the most abundant class of phenolic compounds in 'Karaerik' grapes, being mainly located in seeds. Higher antioxidant capacity values were determined in grape seeds, in correlation with the total phenolic content. CONCLUSION: These results provide useful information for a better understanding of phenolic antioxidants from the 'Karaerik' table grape and will contribute to promoting the varietal identity and health‐related properties of this fruit. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Callous Unemotional (CU) traits are associated with different environmental risk factors, such as negative stressful life events (SLE). The most common studied SLE associated with CU trait has been childhood maltreatment, but less is known about how other SLE impact the development of CU traits. Therefore, this work examines risk factors, personal factors (executive functioning), and mental health outcomes associated with the trajectories of Callous Unemotional (CU) traits and Stressful Life Events (SLE) in a community sample of children. A cohort of 377 preschoolers were followed up between ages 3 and 10. Several risk factors and outcomes for three trajectory groups (high CU/SLE; high CU/low SLE; and the reference group with low CU/SLE) were analyzed by using multiple post-hoc comparisons. We hypothesized that children with high CU/SLE would face more contextual risk factors, more executive functioning difficulties and more mental health problems than children with high CU/low SLE or the reference group. At the age of 3, children who showed high CU/SLE faced more early contextual adversity, including socioeconomic difficulties and maternal antisocial behavior than the other groups of children. At the age of 10, children with high CU/SLE presented more peer problems and higher psychopathology symptoms than the reference group, but no differences on mental health outcomes in comparison to the high CU/low SLE group. These results have potential implications for clinical practice and studies attempting to identify different CU subtypes in children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Pearling process on wheat grains was evaluated as a strategy to reduce their adverse effect on whole‐wheat bread (WWB) quality and simultaneously preserve part of the nutrients of the whole grain. The grains were pearled applying different times (25, 125, 225 and 250 s) before milling. Characteristic, nutritional composition and rheology of the pearled wheat flour (P), and their bread‐making performance, were analysed. Whole‐wheat flour and refined flour (RF) were used as control. P125s, P225s and P250s exhibited a superior nutritional profile concerning RF. P had lower water absorption and led to higher volume bread with lighter crust and crumb compared to WWB. P125s, P225s and P250s bread showed characteristics similar to those of white bread, but their hardness was lower. The improvement resulted from the extraction of the outermost bran layers, a decrease in insoluble dietary fibre, an increase in the proportion of water‐soluble pentosans and a lower protein weakening. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary sector plays a key role in any country, from both economic and social perspectives, as has been underscored by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. In Europe, this sector is highly dependent on the aid provided under the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). Therefore, the distribution of this aid among the various recipients is crucial to maintaining a strong primary sector throughout the European Union (EU). This is especially true in light of the new funding for the period from 2021 to 2027 and the United Kingdom's departure from the EU. In this sense, the 93.5% of the first pillar of CAP aid consists of direct aid to farmers. The related literature has shown its effect on aspects such as sustainability and farmers' income, among others, and its distribution in specific geographical areas. In this vein, the present paper conducts a longitudinal and cross-sectional analysis of the distribution of aid across EU countries. The results show that the CAP reforms and the incorporation of countries into the EU influenced the distribution of aid. Moreover, there is a clear division between Eastern and Western EU countries, with a more equitable distribution of aid in the West. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction--This document shows a system that simulates the illumination of the abdominal scene in laparoscopic operations using mini robots. The mini robots would be magnetically tied to the abdominal cavity and manipulated by an external robot arm. Two algorithms are tested in this system: one that moves the mini robot according to the movement of the endoscope, and another that moves from an analysis of the image captured by the scene. Objective--To contribute to the illumination of the surgical scene by means of mini robots attached magnetically to the abdominal cavity. Methodology--A software tool was developed using Unity3D, which simulates the interior of the abdomen in laparoscopic operations, adding a new lighting: a mini light-type robot magnetically anchored to the abdominal wall. The mini robot has two different movements to illuminate the scene, one depends on the movement of the endoscope and the other on the image analysis performed. Results--Tests were performed with a representation of the real environment comparing it with the tests in the built tool, obtaining similar results and showing the potential of a mini robot to provide additional lighting to the surgeon if necessary. Conclusions--The designed algorithm allows a mini robot that is magnetically anchored in the abdominal wall to move to low-light areas following two options: a geometric relationship or movement as a result of image analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coal fly ash (CFA) samples used in building construction were assessed for natural radioactivity by gamma-ray spectrometry analysis. Activity concentrations in the original CFA sample were 101, 55.5 and 493 Bq kg−1 for 226Ra, 232Th and 40K, respectively. They were compared with the activity concentrations measured in five fineness ranges (from < 45 to > 200 µm). Then, the finer the CFA is, the higher the activity concentrations. Radioactive hazard was assessed for 765 samples collected for 10 years. The annual effective dose was 0.95 mSv y−1 for the fly ash and lower than 1 mSv y−1 for all the scenarios considered for a building material. Therefore, CFA may be used to manufacture building materials safely. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The long-lasting consistency of a regulatory framework is essential for the proper functioning of incentives, particularly in industries such as electricity generation, with high sunk costs where different schemes have been developed to guarantee a long-term supply. In this respect, the instability of the regulatory framework can both impede the proper functioning of such incentives and, on occasion, violate the legitimate expectations of the agents involved. The purpose of this paper is to study the stability of the regulatory framework in terms of the long-term incentive mechanism for power generation applied in Colombia, known as "Cargo por Confiabilidad." The findings of this paper suggest the independence of the regulatory agency must be strengthened and that the instability of the regulatory framework has generated redistributions of income among agents. This study observes that among these agents, the best-organized pressure groups benefit the most from such a redistribution of incomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The electrical stimulation has demonstrated its usefulness as actuators in the development of haptic devices, since it presents the possibility of varying parameters such as frequency and current intensity in different regions of the human body, producing different stimuli in the different mechanoreceptor organs. When used on the fingertips, it allows the distribution of the signals to electrodes framed in a matrix type arrangement, in order to produce different sensations in the user. This work describes, by means of a prototype based on electrical stimulation, the resolution for the purpose of haptic spatial location. The results of a first experimentation with healthy users are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this expository note, we give a self-contained presentation of the equivalence between the opposite category of commutative monoids and that of commutative, monoid k -schemes that are diagonalizable, for any field k . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Virus infections affect plant developmental traits but this aspect of the interaction has not been extensively studied so far. Two strains of Turnip mosaic virus differentially affect Arabidopsis development, especially flower stalk elongation, which allowed phenotypical, cellular, and molecular characterization of the viral determinant, the P3 protein. Transiently expressed wild‐type green fluorescent protein‐tagged P3 proteins of both strains and selected mutants of them revealed important differences in their behaviour as endoplasmic reticulum (ER)‐associated peripheral proteins flowing along the reticulum, forming punctate accumulations. Three‐dimensional (3D) model structures of all expressed P3 proteins were computationally constructed through I‐TASSER protein structure predictions, which were used to compute protein surfaces and map electrostatic potentials to characterize the effect of amino acid changes on features related to protein interactions and to phenotypical and subcellular results. The amino acid at position 279 was the main determinant affecting stalk development. It also determined the speed of ER‐flow of the expressed proteins and their final location. A marked change in the protein surface electrostatic potential correlated with changes in subcellular location. One single amino acid in the P3 viral protein determines all the analysed differential characteristics between strains differentially affecting flower stalk development. A model proposing a role of the protein in the intracellular movement of the viral replication complex, in association with the viral 6K2 protein, is proposed. The type of association between both viral proteins could differ between the strains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. Burnout syndrome (BOS) comprises emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced personal accomplishment in those affected. Instruments such as the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) can help to identify those affected. Physicians in training have been described as an at-risk group for this syndrome. Objective. Describe the association between BOS and medical training by specialty in first-year residents. Method. This is a cross-sectional analytical study of specialty residents at the Hospital Civil de Guadalajara. Sociodemographic data were obtained and the MBI was administered to identify BOS. Samples were compared, and a comparative analysis performed to identify factors associated with BOS. Results. Eighty-eight residents were included, with 21.6% (n = 19) presenting BOS, 53.4% displaying emotional exhaustion (n = 47), 53.7% showing depersonalization (n = 47), and 39.8% reduced personal accomplishment (n = 35). Presenting BOS was not associated with sociodemographic characteristics or type of specialty. Work hours (ro = .229, p = .032), and a higher number of on-call hours/week (ro = .34, p = .001) were associated with higher BOS. Discussion and conclusion. The prevalence of BOS was lower than expected. Over half scored for emotional exhaustion and depersonalization, which could be explained by a self-reporting bias. There was no association between the group/type of specialty and BOS. This study creates new knowledge that works as an institutional situational diagnosis, helps to determine the scope of the problem, and encourages to consider the contributing factors to its origin and maintenance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses highlights of the 2020 Modern Language Association conference session titled "Super Sonic Chicanidades" concerning Chicana/o sound in music, literature, film, and other expressions of popular culture. Highlights include the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mariachis who serenade people in local restaurants, how Spanish-language radio constructs a translational spatial and aural home of Latinas/os in the U.S., and the role of audio in immigration rights campaigns.

The natural radioactivity in coal fly ash and natural pozzolan Portland cement samples produced in Spain was measured by gamma spectrometry. Activity concentrations of 226Ra, 232Th and 40K ranged from 15.7 to 88.3 Bq kg−1, from 12.8 to 81.0 Bq kg−1 and from 37.0 to 678.0 Bq kg−1, respectively. The radiological hazards samples owing to the mentioned natural radioactivity were inferred from determinations of the activity concentration index, I, absorbed dose rate, Dext, and annual effective dose, Ep, which falls within 0.20 mSv to 0.87 mSv (coal-cement) and 0.18 mSv to 0.50 mSv (pozzolan-cement) (≤ 1 mSv, threshold criterion). Therefore, these cements are proper to be used for building purposes as result of their radiological assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Julio Cortázar's only graphic novel, La raíz del ombú, remains almost unknown and certainly understudied. Illustrated by Argentine painter Alberto Cedrón and published in Venezuela in 1981, it served both Cedrón and Cortázar to depict and reflect upon Argentina's social and political unrest from the 1930s to the 1970s. Neither its revised second edition, published in Argentina in 2004, nor its most recent translation into French in 2013 has contributed significantly to its critical acclaim. This article studies the place of La raíz del ombú within Cortazar's work and analyzes the role of politics, aesthetics, and the fantastic in this unique work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paranormal beliefs, regardless of their veracity, clearly constitute an important dimension of human psychology. Survey work across the world reveals that around 50 % of people hold at least one paranormal belief. This figure is surprisingly high considering the lack of robust scientific evidence in support of the referred phenomena, and suggests the existence of resilient psychological mechanisms at the basis of the development and maintenance of such beliefs. Researchers in the area have proposed a diversity of explanations, exploring a large number of individual factors. However, despite the generous effort, we have not been able to develop a comprehensive explanatory model capable of accommodating the body of empirical findings. With this study we aimed to contribute towards a better understanding of paranormal belief as a multicausal phenomenon. In order to achieve this, we explored a set of variables related to the main perspectives in the literature. We used a sample of 184 subjects of very diverse nationalities, ages, and cultural backgrounds. We surveyed paranormal beliefs among our participants and observed that 71 % of the sample showed traditional religious beliefs, 34 % believed in psychic phenomena such as extrasensory perception or psychokinesis, 31 % in superstition, 23 % in witchcraft, and 39 % in anomalous natural phenomena such as astrology or extraordinary life forms. Eighty four per cent of the subjects responded positively to at least one of the 26 items of paranormal beliefs evaluated in the scale. A correlation analysis was conducted between the individuals' traits and paranormal belief scores. Schizotypy (rxy = .23, p < .001), unusual experiences (rxy = .37, p < .001), introvertive anhedonia (r = .28, p < .001), conditional reasoning in tasks with paranormal content (r = .23, p = .001), need for affiliation (rxy = .21, p < .002), and report of subjective extraordinary experiences (r = .35, p < .001) correlated significantly with belief in the paranormal. These results are consistent with Russell and Jones' (1980) theory of compensation of basic needs and suggest that paranormal belief may rise in combination with premorbid signs of psycho-pathology. However, they suggest that belief in the paranormal may not be a consequence of a cognitive deficit in this type of reasoning. A multiple regression analysis revealed a five variable solution. In the equation, subjective extraordinary experiences, unusual experiences (from the schizotypy scale), need for autonomy, need for achievement, and intro-vertive anhedonia contributed standardized coefficients of .3, .23, .24, .22 and .13 respectively. The model explained 27 % of the variance. The findings of this study are consistent with a multicausal conception of paranormal belief. A model is proposed in which paranormal beliefs can stem from a variety of factors and, as they develop, a reciprocal interaction between experience and belief arises, contributing to their definitive accommodation in the individual's psychology. The identification and exploration of contributing factors to the development and maintenance of the paranormal belief has been very fruitful in the last decades. In addition, the explanatory hypotheses raised by the researchers do not seem to be mutually exclusive. Therefore, the simultaneous consideration of these could be a successful approach in future studies. The elaboration of an explanatory model that contemplates both the multicausality and the multidimensionality of the phenomenon could provide a qualitative leap in the area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In some way, the coronavirus epidemic is not only testing our immune system, but our social cohesion. It has impacts on coexistence and very particularly on vulnerable groups and persons that, often, we turn from victims into threats. In a disperse system, mistreated by cuts, assistance and services aiming at avoiding social risks of most vulnerable people are not fully arriving. Regarding residencies for elderly, solution to this challenge impelled by the society can't be proposed from economic interests (companies), corporatist interests (groups defending their profession) or politics (with short-term strategies looking for votes). We have to reflect on what happened, immediate actions and guidelines for a new model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to their minimal genomes, plant viruses are forced to hijack specific cellular pathways to ensure host colonization, a condition that most frequently involves physical interaction between viral and host proteins. Among putative viral interactors are the movement proteins, responsible for plasmodesma gating and genome binding during viral transport. Two of them, DGBp1 and DGBp2, are required for alpha-, beta- and gammacarmovirus cell-to-cell movement, but the number of DGBp-host interactors identified at present is limited. By using two different approaches, yeast two-hybrid and bimolecular fluorescence complementation assays, we found three Arabidopsis factors, eIF3g1, RPP3A and WRKY36, interacting with DGBp1s from each genus mentioned above. eIF3g1 and RPP3A are mainly involved in protein translation initiation and elongation phases, respectively, while WRKY36 belongs to WRKY transcription factor family, important regulators of many defence responses. These host proteins are not expected to be associated with viral movement, but knocking out WRKY36 or silencing either RPP3A or eIF3g1 negatively affected Arabidopsis infection by Turnip crinkle virus. A highly conserved FNF motif at DGBp1 C-terminus was required for protein-protein interaction and cell-to-cell movement, suggesting an important biological role. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A large number of theories about the development and maintenance of paranormal beliefs have been raised in the literature. There is, however, a lack of studies designed to integrate the different perspectives. We reviewed the literature and explored a series of factors in a sample of 180 individuals. Seven variables showed significant correlation indices at α =.01. A regression analysis revealed subjective paranormal experience as the variable that contributed the most to the explanation of paranormal belief, z =.43, 95% confidence interval (CI) [.24,.56]. Need for achievement (z =.31, 95% CI [.11, to.46]), conditional reasoning (z =.10, 95% CI [.09,.28]), and schizotypy (z =.29, 95% CI [.09,.45]) also contributed significantly in the equation. The associations found between the subscales of the Needs Questionnaire and belief in the paranormal support the hipothesis that paranormal belief may serve basic psychological needs. Similarly, the association found in the case of schizotypy suggests that paranormal belief might be held within the context of psychopathology. There was no evidence, however, supporting the hypothesis of a reasoning deficit in believers. It was concluded that, once paranormal beliefs develop, there is an interaction between belief and experience that strongly contributes towards its maintenance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Task uncertainty is a key factor in teamwork research. This study analyzed the psychometric characteristics of the Spanish Model of Group Tasks Uncertainty (MITAG) in two German samples. The participants (501 team members and 104 team leaders from a German research organization) answered the MITAG together with selected items from the German Job Diagnostic Survey (JDS) and the instrument Ambiguity facets of work (Ambiguitätsfacetten der Arbeit, AfA). Confirmatory factor analysis did not reproduce the original 4-factor structure in the German sample, although the 3 newly identified factors unclarity of goals, new situations, and non-routine resemble the original factors. Results showed sound internal consistency and confirmed the convergent and discriminant validity of the new factors. The MITAG offers a concept-based short scale for researchers and practitioners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Activity concentration of 232Th, 226Ra and 40K was determined in 11 white and 63 grey Portland cements by using gamma spectrometry. The potential γ-ray radiation hazards due to mentioned activity concentrations were assessed by following five approaches: internal hazard index, Hin, external hazard index, Hex, activity concentration index, I, absorbed dose rate, D, and effective dose, Ep. All of these showed results falling below threshold limits. Particularly, white cements exhibited slightly lower values than grey ones. The annual effective dose estimated for all the Portland cements falls within 0.10 mSv to 0.47 mSv (≤ 1 mSv: threshold criterion for building materials). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Phenolic composition of two novel Vitis vinifera red grapes was studied. • These Vitis vinifera red grapes were compared to Tempranillo cultivar. • More than 50 phenolic compounds were quantified by HPLC-DAD-ESI-MS/MS. • New anthocyanin and flavonol diglucosides were reported in Vitis vinifera grapes. • Phenolic profile of grape skins and seeds allowed varietal differentiation. The detailed phenolic composition of different berry parts from two novel V. vinifera L. red grape genotypes (Moribel and Tinto Fragoso), together the well-known Tempranillo, was established using high performance liquid chromatography-diode array detection-electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-DAD-ESI-MS/MS) over two consecutive vintages (2016 and 2017). More than 50 phenolic compounds were identified and quantified: 25 anthocyanins, 17 flavonols, 7 hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives, 2 stilbenes, and several flavan-3-ols. As far as we know, some anthocyanin and flavonol dihexosides were reported for the first time in V. vinifera L. grapes. Application of Principal Component Analysis (PCA) to experimental data showed a good separation of the novel grape genotypes and Tempranillo according to the phenolic profile of skins and seeds, mainly based on the proportion of trisubstituted anthocyanin derivatives, flavonols and flavan-3-ols, being a useful tool to differentiate these grape varieties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Chemical oxidation of white wines through the Fenton reaction. • Dual behaviour of phenolic compounds in the oxidation of wines. • Linear correlations between wine composition and OH production. • Systematic study of OH production in white wines. Abstract The chemical oxidation of white wines through the Fenton reaction has been widely studied, wherein the primary species is the hydroxyl radical (OH). This radical possesses high oxidising power and may oxidise the primary components in wines. The Fenton reaction in wines is complex and includes the participation of phenolic compounds, organic acids, and metals. However, there has been no systematic study to date that relates wine composition to OH production in real white wines. In this paper, a multivariate model was generated using the partial least squares (PLS) algorithm, and linear correlations were established between wine composition and OH production. Based on the results, the variables were classified as either pro-oxidants (malic acid, p -coumaric acid, and caffeic acid, % prodelphinidins, procyanidins B1, Mn, Cu, and Zn) or antioxidants (cis -piceid, ellagic acid, gallic acid, proanthocyanins, glucose, and proton concentration). Finally, the pathways by which wine compounds participate in OH production are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The flavanol composition of red wine, stemming from grape skins and seeds, is a determinant factor of its quality. It has been proposed that the wine flavanol structure depends on the grape cultivar but with skin-derived flavanols prevailing in traditional red winemaking from mature grapes. However, this has not been confirmed for many cultivars. This study analysed the flavanol composition in grapes, wines, and pomace of Syrah, Marselan, and Tannat, Vitis vinifera cultivars known for their potential to yield tannic wines. Across two vintages, 20 wines were produced through traditional winemaking. Flavanols were analysed by HPLC–MS/MS before and after acid-catalysed depolymerisation of proanthocyanidins. Grapes of different ripeness were considered as vineyard with different agronomical characteristics. Nevertheless, each cultivar exhibited a characteristic flavanol composition in both grapes and wines. Notably, all Marselan wines had high proportions of seed-derived flavanols (high proportions of monomers, dimers and low of prodelphinidins), from grapes with high skin flavanol content. In contrast, Tannat and Syrah wines had high proportions of skin-derived flavanols, irrespective of the corresponding seed flavanol levels in grapes. Flavanol extractability from skins mainly regulated wine composition, being unusually low in Marselan, rising with ripeness in Syrah, and consistently high in Tannat, masking the high seed flavanol contents of its grapes. Therefore, wines with high proportions of seed-derived flavanols can be obtained from fermentative macerations of ripe grapes. Pomaces were found to be a rich source of flavanols, primarily from seeds where they largely remain unextractable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Rehabilitation can improve outcomes after reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA). However, low adherence to rehabilitation and compliance rates are some of the main barriers. To address this public health issue, the goal of this research was to pilot test and evaluate the effectiveness of a chatbot to promote adherence to home rehabilitation in patients undergoing RSA. Methods: A randomized pilot trial including patients undergoing RSA and early postoperative rehabilitation was performed. The control group received standard home rehabilitation; the experimental group received the same intervention supervised with a chatbot, with automated interactions that included messages to inform, motivate, and remember the days and exercises for 12 weeks. Compliance with rehabilitation and clinical measures of shoulder function, pain, and quality of life were assessed. Results: 31 patients (17 experimental) with an average age of 70.4 (3.6) completed the intervention. Compliance was higher in the experimental group (77% vs. 65%; OR95% = 2.4 (0.5 to 11.4)). Statistically significant between-group differences with a CI of 95% were found in the QuickDASH questionnaire and self-reported quality of life. No differences were found in the rest of the measures. Conclusions: This pilot study suggests that the chatbot tool can be useful in promoting compliance with early postoperative home rehabilitation in patients undergoing RSA. Future randomized trials with adequate power are warranted to determine the clinical impact of the proposal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Due to the current dominance of a few grape varieties in the wine market, the aim of this work was to study the detailed phenolic and volatile composition, chromatic characteristics, and sensorial properties of red wines elaborated with new Vitis vinifera grapes (Moribel and Tinto Fragoso) identified using the High Perfomance Liquid Chromatography‐Diode Array Detector‐Electrospray Ionization‐Tandem Mass Spectrometry (HPLC‐DAD‐ESI‐MS/MS), Gas Chromatography‐ Mass Spectrometry (GC‐MS), CIELab color space, and Napping ® techniques. RESULTS: Tinto Fragoso wine showed higher phenolic content than Moribel, with more anthocyanins, flavonols, and stilbenes. These wines also contained anthocyanin diglucosides not reported for Vitis vinifera wines. The odor activity values of free volatile compounds were calculated to indicate their influence on wine aroma, the fruity aromas of Moribel standing out particularly. The wines studied were positively evaluated by the tasters. Moribel's sensory profile was characterized by red fruit aromas and Tinto Fragoso showed more aromatic intensity and persistence in the mouth. CONCLUSION: The results obtained from the first characterization of red wines made from novel Vitis vinifera grapes suggest that Moribel and Tinto Fragoso could be appropriate raw materials for the elaboration of quality young red wines. Tinto Fragoso provided wines with sensorial properties different from those of Tempranillo, and could be an alternative to the well known red wines on the market. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]