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Background: The objective of this study was to evaluate the use of telomere length measurements as diagnostic biomarkers during early screening for lung cancer in high-risk patients. Methods: This was a prospective study of patients undergoing lung cancer diagnosis at two Spanish hospitals between April 2017 and January 2020. Telomeres from peripheral blood lymphocytes were analysed by Telomere Analysis Technology, which is based in high-throughput quantitative fluorescent in situ hybridization. Analytical predictive models were developed using Random Forest from the dataset of telomere-associated variables (TAV). Receiver Operating Characteristic curves were used to characterize model performance. Findings: From 233 patients undergoing lung cancer diagnosis, 106 patients aged 55–75 with lung cancer or lung cancer and COPD were selected. A control group (N = 453) included individuals of similar age with COPD or healthy. Telomere analysis showed that patients in the cancer cohort had a higher proportion of short telomeres compared to the control cohort. A TAV-based predictive model assuming a prevalence of 5 % of lung cancer among screened subjects showed an AUC of 0.98 %, a positive predictive value of 0.60 (95 % CI, 0.49–0.70) and a negative predictive value of 0.99 (95 % CI, 0.98–0.99) for prediction of lung cancer. Interpretation: The results of this study suggest that TAV analysis in peripheral lymphocytes can be considered a useful diagnostic tool during screening for lung cancer in high-risk patients. TAV-based models could improve the predictive power of current initial diagnostic pathways, but further work is needed to integrate them into routine clinical evaluation. Funding: Life Length SL.

This study analyzed the relationship between academic performance and the development of transversal competencies of reasoning for complexity and digital transformation in higher education students. The Tec21 educational model of the Tecnológico de Monterrey was used as a framework for analysis. Data from 33,319 students were analyzed following a CRISP-DM methodology, first an exploratory analysis was performed on the data to recognize and understand the presence of competencies in the educational model. Machine Learning methodologies, including Random Forest and XGBoost, were then employed to identify the most influential curricular and co-curricular variables in the acquisition of studied competencies. The results revealed a significant correlation between academic performance and the acquisition of the competencies, highlighting that high grades are consistently associated with success in developing these competencies. This study extends the understanding of how competency-focused educational interventions can facilitate professional and personal development in a labor market that demands advanced skills and adaptability. The discussion focuses on the implications of these findings for formulating educational policies and pedagogical practices that prioritize both academic achievement and the comprehensive development of essential 21st-century competencies. From a broader perspective, our work is framed in the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 4 Quality Education and is oriented to identify variables that boost the acquisition of 21st Century Skills in higher education contexts.

As traditional education systems struggle to keep up with technological advances, incorporating open science into Education 5.0 is critical to addressing student skills gaps. In this study, the MAICC model is introduced, a tool designed to foster complex thinking in higher education students through the evaluation of citizen science projects. It integrates research-based learning and service learning, and helps develop critical and reflective skills by applying them to real-life settings. To assess student engagement and skills development, a mixed methods approach combining qualitative and quantitative analysis was used. Findings indicate that the MAICC model promotes complex thinking, enhances critical thinking through citizen science project evaluation, and features an emphasis on citizen science and educational technology. Discussion highlights citizen science’s important role in education and suggests future research exploring its wider application across disciplines and contexts to enhance 21st century skills.

Creativity is a 21st Century skill. Promoting problem-solving and attending to global complex issues in formative learning experiences and professional endeavors is considered necessary. The assessment of creativity in higher education is a challenge itself due to few objective instruments for Spanish speakers and Latin populations considering this skill as key for current and future challenges. In addition to formal creativity training, which is based on curricula formed by a set of tools and processes, there is also the role of self-perception over this skill. The objective profile is the expected performance, while the subjective is seen as a self-declared ability. In this sense, having a proper assessment of creative behavior allows to align the intentions of institutions and educators toward an integrated professional profile in a multidisciplinary manner. In this study, the Creative Behavior Assessment Instrument was applied to pre-graduates from Creative Studies (CS; Design, Architecture, Digital Animation, and Communication) areas and other disciplines to answer three main research questions (1) Are CS students more creative than other discipline students?; (2) How does fluency vary between students from different disciplines?; (3) Is there coherence between the objective and subjective responses to the instrument? The methodological approach for this study is mixed methods, focusing on total score, visuospatial ability, fluidity, and self-perception. Results are discussed in terms of the difference shown by the students’ objective/subjective profiles in relation to their discipline, the relevance of promoting creativity in higher education, and the implications of individual differences regarding the subjective profile.

Vacuum impregnation (VI) of natural extracts is often used as a pretreatment for fruit dehydration. Apple slices were subjected to VI [XVP: vacuum pressure (−0.4 to −0.2 mbar), XIT: impregnation time (2–10 min), and XRT: restoration time (1–3 min)] of Hibiscus sabdariffa (HS) calyces aqueous extract and optimized using response surface methodology (RSM). Total soluble phenols (TSP) and flavonoids, antioxidant capacity, and physicochemical parameters were evaluated before and after vacuum impregnation. Also, optimized VI apple slices were heat air-dried and characterized for all the mentioned parameters. Under the experimental conditions, all vacuum-impregnated apple slices increased in TSP content, with impregnation time, restoration time, and the interaction between impregnation time and vacuum pressure being the key factors. According to RSM, the optimal VI conditions for TSP (R2 = 0.99) were XVP −0.4 bar, XIT: 6.73 min, and XRT 3 min. VI also improved flavonoid and antioxidant activities (DPPH and ABTS) of apple slices and promoted changes in total soluble solids, pH, titratable acidity, water activity, moisture, and color (luminosity, a*, and b*) parameters. Additionally, vacuum-impregnated apple slices (under optimized conditions) were further dehydrated, resulting in an increase in soluble phenols, flavonoids, and antioxidant activity. VI with HS extract is an effective alternative for developing dehydrated apple slices with an increase in antioxidant compounds.

We present an analytical and computational study characterizing the structural and dynamical properties of an active filament confined in cylindrical channels. We first outline the effects of the interplay between confinement and polar self-propulsion on the conformation of the chains. We observe that the scaling of the polymer size in the channel, quantified by the end-to-end distance, shows different anomalous behaviours under different confinement and activity conditions. In particular, we report scaling exponents that are markedly different from their passive counterparts. Interestingly, we show that the universal relation, describing the ratio between the end-to-end distance of passive polymer chains in cylindrical channels and in bulk is broken by activity. Finally, we show that the long-time diffusion coefficient under confinement can be rationalised by an analytical model, that takes into account the presence of the channel and the elongated nature of the polymer.

Orchids are a diverse group of plants, also manifested in their great diversity of flowers. Despite this, orchids are pollinated either through autogamy or allogamy (geitonogamy and xenogamy). Although there are some autogamous orchids, the majority are allogamous, mainly pollinated by xenogamy since they present physical or genetic barriers that prevent self-pollination. In addition, orchids are known for their capacity for interspecific pollination, which could influence fruits (metaxenia) and seeds (xenia) production. Its capacity for hybridization represents an opportunity to produce organisms tolerant to biotic or abiotic stress, in addition to exhibiting new shapes, colors and fragrances; this would be important in horticulture, where the proper selection of parents provides those advantages to the descendant hybrids. This review addresses the characteristics of each type of reproduction systems in orchids, as well as their advantages and disadvantages. At the same time, the study of the induction effect of metaxenia and xenia in this family is proposed. Finally, the production of orchid hybrids is contextualized and the opportunities of this approach in the near future.

Abstract The processes generating the earth’s montane biodiversity remain a matter of debate. Two contrasting hypotheses have been advanced to explain how montane populations form: via direct colonization from other mountains, or, alternatively, via upslope range shifts from adjacent lowland areas. We seek to reconcile these apparently conflicting hypotheses by asking whether a species’ ancestral geographic origin determines its mode of mountain colonization. Island-dwelling passerine birds at the faunal crossroads between Eurasia and Australo-Papua provide an ideal study system. We recover the phylogenetic relationships of the region’s montane species and reconstruct their ancestral geographic ranges, elevational ranges, and migratory behavior. We also perform genomic population studies of three super-dispersive montane species/clades with broad island distributions. Eurasian-origin species populated archipelagos via direct colonization between mountains. This mode of colonization appears related to ancestral adaptations to cold and seasonal climates, specifically short-distance migration. Australo-Papuan-origin mountain populations, by contrast, evolved from lowland ancestors, and highland distribution mostly precludes their further colonization of island mountains. Our study explains much of the distributional variation within a complex biological system, and provides a synthesis of two seemingly discordant hypotheses for montane community formation.

ABSTRACTThe antibacterial activities (ABAC) of white calyces varieties (WCV) of Hibiscus sabdariffa L has not been explored in depth. The aims of the study were to determine the ABAC of WCV and the relationship of phenolic composition with ABAC. Four experimental WCV (W1, W2, W3, and W4), and one with red calyces (RCV) were used. The ABAC of ethanol extracts were tested against Gram (+) and Gram (-) bacteria. WCV showed higher ABAC than RCV, and it was associated to flavonoid content which was 60% higher in WCV with respect to RCV. The free phenolic content of W1, W2, and W4 varieties was 50% higher than that observed in RCV and W3 varieties. The standardized abundance of N-feruloyltiramine and quercetin in the extracts of WCV was related with their highest ABAC. WCV are a promising source of phenolic compounds with high ABAC.

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) comprise a group of microorganisms responsible for developing the sensory and chemical characteristics of several foods and fermented products, particularly cheese. For this reason, after isolation and identification of LAB, validated protocols and procedures for their long-term preservation without compromising its integrity and technological properties, as well as methodologies aiming to assess their viability and integrity are paramount. This study aimed to isolate and identify autochthonous LAB from artisanal Adobera cheese and determine the effect of LAB cryopreservation with thioglycolate broth and glycerol on their viability, membrane integrity, and kinetics. Sixteen LAB were isolated and genetically identified from artisanal cheese samples; eleven of those strains were selected (genus Lactobacillus, Leuconostoc, Streptococcus, and Lactococcus) and included in the cryo-preservation assay. The initial average concentration of the bacterial suspensions was 6.89 log10 CFU mL−1; increasing to 8.9 log10 CFU mL−1 21 days later and slightly reduced at day 42 post-preservation (losses below one logarithm). About 77% of the cells maintained their membrane potential 180 days after their preservation and showed normal Kinetic parameters, maintaining normal adaptation times (Lag phase) and Log phases (9 h average), before reaching the stationary phase. The proposed protocol constitutes a viable alternative to the long-term preservation of different LAB genera because it keeps their viability and integrity. Using flow cytometry allowed the enumeration of viable LAB and provide evidence of the integrity of their membrane.

The use of tris(4-aminophenyl)amine (TAPA) as central to the synthesis of both polyimines and polyimides and covalent organic frameworks and inorganic cages, among others, has grown in the last few years. The resulting materials exhibit high performance in their area of application. In this contribution, the crystal structures of two TAPA derivatives, triethyl (nitrilotris(benzene-4,1-diyl))tricarbamate (1) and triethyl 2,2′,2″-((nitrilotris(benzene-4,1-diyl))tris(azanediyl))tris(2-oxoacetate) (2), are described. The molecular and supramolecular structures of both compounds were compared between them and with analogous compounds. The analyses of their vibrational and 13C-CPMAS NMR spectroscopies, as well as their thermal stability, were included and corelated with the crystal structure. Hirshfeld surface analysis on the crystal structures of both TAPA derivatives revealed the stabilization of the crystal network via the amide N—H∙∙∙O interactions of dispersive nature in the carbamate, whereas dispersive carbonyl–carbonyl interactions also played a competitive role in the supramolecular arrangement of the oxamate. Interaction energy DFT calculations performed at the B3LYP/6-31G(d,p) level allowed us to estimate the energy contributions and nature of several interactions in terms of the stability of both crystal lattices.

This study focused on optimizing ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) conditions (XPC: pulse cycle of 1:1, 2:1, and 3:1 s on/off; XUP: ultrasound power of 80, 90, and 100%; and XET: extraction time of 2, 4, and 6 min) for maximizing the content of soluble phenols (TSPs) and flavonoids (FLAs) from a native Mexican pigmented corn kernel powder through response surface methodology (RSM). Under the Box–Behnken design conditions, the UAE of TSPs ranged from 27.72 to 34.87 mg/g, while FLA content ranged from 16.59 to 27.28 mg/g. The highest content for TSPs was under 4 min XET, 1:1 s on/off XPC, and 100% XUP, while for flavonoids it was under 6 min XET, 2:1 s on/off XPC, and 80% XUP. According to RSM analysis, the optimal UAE conditions for TSPs were found to be XET 3.15 min, 1.58 s on/off XPC, and 100% XUP, and an XET of 4.18 min, 3 s on/off XPC, and 80% XUP were the best experimental conditions for FLAs with a predictive TSP of 35.07 mg/g and FLA of 27.51 mg/g. These data were adjusted in a second-order polynomial model and experimentally validated (TSP = 34.06 mg/g and 27.04 mg/g). Furthermore, the extracts demonstrated antioxidant activity (ABTS, FRAP, and DPPH methods) for optimal UAE for TSPs and FLAs. The antioxidant extract from the native Mexican pigmented corn kernel powder can be used for diverse industrial applications. Thus, the UAE is an effective and sustainable technology for recovering bioactive compounds from maize-based materials.

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are widespread globally, primarily due to long-term anthropogenic pollution sources. Since PAHs tend to accumulate in soil sediments, liverwort plants, such as Lunularia cruciata, are susceptible to their adverse effects, making them good models for bioindicators. The aim of this study was to probe the impact of anthracene, a three-ring linear PAH, on the growth parameters of L. cruciata and the relationship established with the internalization of the pollutant throughout the phenology of the plant. Intrinsic plant responses, isolated from external factors, were assessed in vitro. L. cruciata absorbed anthracene from the culture medium, and its bioaccumulation was monitored throughout the entire process, from the gemma germination stage to the development of the adult plant, over a total period of 60 days. Consequently, plants exposed to concentrations higher than 50 μM anthracene, decreased the growth area of the thallus, the biomass and number of tips. Moreover, anthracene also impinged on plant symmetry. This concentration represented the maximum limit of bioaccumulation in the tissues. This study provides the first evidence that architectural variables in liverwort plants are suitable parameters for their use as bioindicators of PAHs.

Abstract Background Currently, in the scientific literature there is a great interest on the study of strategies to implement patient-centered care. One of the main tools for this is the therapeutic relationship. Some studies suggest that the perception of the environment in which the treatment takes place can influence the perception of its quality, but this is not explored in physical therapy. For all these reasons, the aim of this study was to understand the influence of the environment in which physical therapy treatment takes place on the patients’ perception of the quality of the patient-centered therapeutic relationship in public health centers in Spain. Methods A qualitative study analysed thematically using a modified grounded theory approach. Data collection used semistructured interviewing during focus groups. Results We conducted four focus groups. The size of the focus groups ranged from six to nine participants. In total, 31 patients participated in these focus groups. Participants described a series of specific experiences and perceptions relating to the environment, which they felt were influential in the establishment of therapeutic patient-centered relationships, including six physical factors (Architectural barriers, Furniture, Use of the computer, Physical space, Ambiet conditions, and Privacy) and six organizational factors (Patient-physical therapist ratio, Treatment interruptions, Social factors, Continuity with the professional, Lack of professional autonomy, and Coordination or communication among team members). Conclusion The results of this study highlight environmental factors that affect the quality of the therapeutic patient-centered relationship in physical therapy from the patient’s point of view, and emphasize the need for physical therapists and administrators to underline the need to review these factors and take them into account in their service delivery.

Abstract Chemical signals deposited in feces play an important role in intraspecific and interspecific communication of many mammals. We collected fresh feces of adult wolves from wild breeding groups. All samples visually identified as belonging to wolves were subsequently identified to species level by sequencing a small fragment of mtDNA and sexed typing DBX6 and DBY7 sex markers. Using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC–MS), we identified 56 lipophilic compounds in the feces, mainly heterocyclic aromatic organic compounds, such as indole or phenol, but also steroids, such as cholesterol, carboxylic acids and their esters between n-C4 and n-C18, aldehydes, alcohols and significant quantities of squalene and α-tocopherol, which would increase the chemical stability of feces on humid substrates. There was variability in the number and proportions of compounds between sexes, which could be indicative of their function as chemical signals. We also found variability in different reproductive states, especially in odorous compounds, steroids and α-tocopherol. Feces with a presumed marking function had higher proportions of α-tocopherol and steroids than feces with non-marking function. These compounds could be involved in intragroup and intergroup communication of wolves and their levels in feces could be directly related with the wolf’s sex and physiological and reproductive status.

In this study, we evaluate how ChatGPT complements and enriches the traditional flipped learning strategy in higher education, particularly in engineering courses. Using an experimental design involving 356 students from basic programming courses in undergraduate engineering programs, we compared the normalized learning gain between groups that used the ChatGPT-assisted flipped learning strategy (focus groups) and those that followed a traditional video-based flipped learning methodology (control groups). The intervention lasted ten weeks, with two sessions of two hours each week. A pre-test–post-test analysis revealed that the focus groups showed significant improvement in normalized learning gain values compared to the control groups. These results confirm that incorporating ChatGPT into the flipped learning strategy can significantly enhance student performance by providing a more active, interactive, and personalized approach during the teaching–learning process. We conclude that the flipped learning strategy, upgraded with the assistance of ChatGPT, provides an effective means to improve understanding and application of complex concepts in programming courses, with potential to be extended to other areas of study in higher education. This study opens routes for future research on the integration of artificial intelligence into innovative pedagogical strategies with the goal of scaffolding the learning experience and improving educational outcomes.

The synthesis of inorganic nanoparticles for diverse applications is an active research area that involves physical and chemical methods, which typically are expensive, involve hazardous chemical reagents, use complex equipment and synthesis conditions, and consume large amounts of time and energy. Thus, green synthesis methods have emerged as eco-friendly and easy alternatives for inorganic nanoparticle synthesis, particularly the use of plant-based extracts from fruit juice, leaves, seeds, peel, stem, barks, and roots, which act as reducing, capping, and stabilizing agents, contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals and circular economy principles. Therefore, diverse inorganic nanoparticles have been synthesized using plant-based extracts, including gold, silver, titanium dioxide, zinc, copper, platinum, zirconium, iron, selenium, magnesium, nickel, sulfur, cobalt, palladium, and indium nanoparticles, which exhibit different biological activities such as antioxidant, antimicrobial, dye degradation, cytotoxic, analgesic, sedative, wound-healing, skin protection, sensor development, and plant-growth-promoting effects. Therefore, this review summarizes the advantages and limitations of plant-based extracts as reducing, capping, and stabilizing agents for inorganic nanoparticle green synthesis.

El objetivo de este trabajo fue evaluar en cerdos ferales la presencia de Salmonella spp (Spp), el virus del síndrome reproductivo y respiratorio porcino (VPRRS), circovirus porcino tipo 2 (PCV2), virus de influenza porcina (VIP), virus de diarrea epidémica porcina (VDEP), Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae (Mhyo) y Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae (App). Las muestras se obtuvieron de cerdos en los estados de Chihuahua y Durango, México. Las pruebas analizadas para los animales de Chihuahua fueron hisopado nasal para VIP, hisopado rectal para Spp y VDEP, suero para VPRRS y PCV2, pulmón, hígado y linfonodos para Spp, VIP, VPRRS y PCV2, así como suero para pruebas serológicas. De los animales del estado de Durango se recolectó hisopado nasal para VIP, hisopado rectal para Spp y VDEP, y suero para PCV2 para estudios moleculares y serológicos. Los resultados moleculares en ambos estados mostraron muestras positivas para PCV2, 73.3 % en Chihuahua y 91.3 % para Durango, de igual forma se obtuvieron dos muestras positivas para Spp en el estado de Chihuahua (13.3 %) y una en Durango (6.6 %), para VIP hubo dos positivas (8.7 %) en Durango. Para VPRRS y VDEP, las muestras fueron negativas en ambos estados. Los resultados serológicos en cerdos de los dos estados mostraron positividad para PCV2, Spp y App. Las muestras fueron negativas para VPRRS, VDEP y Mhyo en ambos estados. Es importante remarcar la detección molecular y serológica de cerdos ferales positivos a diversos agentes infecciosos importantes en la producción porcina con repercusiones zoosanitarias en la salud pública, que implica una relevancia epidemiológica de estos animales en el contexto de “una salud”.

Al-doped zinc oxide (ZnO) films were deposited on glass substrates by radio frequency magnetron sputtering using a sintered target of nanoparticles synthesized by sol–gel. The films were characterized using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, the four-point probe method for resistivity, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and photoluminescence. The X-ray diffraction patterns showed a hexagonal structure corresponding to the wurtzite phase for all the films, nanoparticles, and sintered targets. The films deposited by sputtering showed a highly preferred orientation to the (002) plane. These films were compared structurally and electrically to those deposited by the sol–gel method. Photoluminescence spectra show a decrease in intensity due to the reduction of defects by the incorporation of Al as dopant in the ZnO films deposited by the both methods (sol–gel and sputtering). The Al-doped ZnO films deposited by sputtering reached resistivity of 0.1 Ω cm and those deposited by sol–gel reached a resistivity of 1.24 Ω cm. The physical properties of these films show potential for application in devices like sensors and biosensors. Resumen: Se depositaron películas de óxido de zinc (ZnO) dopadas con aluminio (Al) sobre sustratos de vidrio mediante erosión catódica de radiofrecuencia usando un blanco sinterizado de nanopartículas sintetizadas por sol-gel. Las películas fueron caracterizadas usando difracción de rayos-X, microscopía electrónica de barrido, método de cuatro puntas para la resistividad, espectroscopía de energía dispersiva de rayos-X y fotoluminiscencia. Los patrones de difracción de rayos-X mostraron una estructura hexagonal correspondiente a la fase wurtzita para todas las películas, nanopartículas y blancos sinterizados. Las películas depositadas por erosión catódica mostraron una alta orientación preferencial al plano (002). Estas películas fueron comparadas con las depositadas por el método sol-gel, estructural y eléctricamente. Los espectros de fotoluminiscencia muestran una reducción en intensidad debido a la reducción de defectos por la incorporación de Al como dopante en las películas depositadas por ambos métodos (sol-gel y sputtering). Las películas de ZnO dopadas con Al depositadas por erosión catódica alcanzaron resistividades de 0,1 Ω cm y 1,24 Ω cm para las películas de ZnO dopadas con Al depositadas por sol-gel. Las propiedades físicas de estas películas muestran potencial para la aplicación en dispositivos como sensores o biosensores.

Abstract Dystroglycan (DG) is a glycoprotein composed of two subunits that remain non-covalently bound at the plasma membrane: α-DG, which is extracellular and heavily O-mannosyl glycosylated, and β-DG, an integral transmembrane polypeptide. α-DG is involved in the maintenance of tissue integrity and function in the adult, providing an O-glycosylation-dependent link for cells to their extracellular matrix. β-DG in turn contacts the cytoskeleton via dystrophin and participates in a variety of pathways transmitting extracellular signals to the nucleus. Increasing evidence exists of a pivotal role of DG in the modulation of normal cellular proliferation. In this context, deficiencies in DG glycosylation levels, in particular those affecting the so-called matriglycan structure, have been found in an ample variety of human tumors and cancer-derived cell lines. This occurs together with an underexpression of the DAG1 mRNA and/or its α-DG (core) polypeptide product or, more frequently, with a downregulation of β-DG protein levels. These changes are in general accompanied in tumor cells by a low expression of genes involved in the last steps of the α-DG O-mannosyl glycosylation pathway, namely POMT1/2, POMGNT2, CRPPA, B4GAT1 and LARGE1/2. On the other hand, a series of other genes acting earlier in this pathway are overexpressed in tumor cells, namely DOLK, DPM1/2/3, POMGNT1, B3GALNT2, POMK and FKTN, hence exerting instead a pro-oncogenic role. Finally, downregulation of β-DG, altered β-DG processing and/or impaired β-DG nuclear levels are increasingly found in human tumors and cell lines. It follows that DG itself, particular genes/proteins involved in its glycosylation and/or their interactors in the cell could be useful as biomarkers of certain types of human cancer, and/or as molecular targets of new therapies addressing these neoplasms.

Background. Vanilla planifolia is a species of commercial and cultural importance. However, its growth and development could be affected by the increase in temperature caused by climate change. In contrast, V. pompona and V. insignis are wild species with potential use as aromatic species and they show greater tolerance to prolonged exposure to high temperatures. Objective. To determine the effect of temperature on the development of roots and shoots of V. planifolia, V. pompona and V. insignis under controlled conditions. Methodology. Cuttings of approximately 20 cm with two nodes were grown at 25, 32, 35 and 38 °C under controlled conditions, with a relative humidity of 100%, for six weeks. To evaluate cutting development, the number of roots produced was recorded, as well their length, their growth rate and their diameter. Likewise, the number of shoots generated, their length, growth rate and diameter were also counted. The experimental design was completely random, and the data were analyzed using Tukey post hoc analysis of variance (P < 0.05). Results. The increase in temperature affected the promotion and root growth in V. planifolia, which showed the greatest length at 25 °C (20.64 ± 0.26 cm) and the lowest value at 35 °C (1.22 ± 0.49 cm), contrary to V. insignis, where the increase in temperature at 35 °C favored root elongation (4.76 ± 0.07 cm), while the lowest growth was observed at 25 °C (1.74 ± 0.13 cm). V. pompona did not present significant differences in root growth at the three temperatures evaluated. Similarly, the increase in temperature showed a distinct influence on the promotion and growth of the shoot. V. planifolia only produced shoots at 32 °C (8.4 ± 0.4 cm) and V. pompona generated them at 32 and 35 °C, being those of greater length at 35 °C (3.3±0.13 cm) and did not produce at 25 °C; while V. insignis showed the highest shoot growth at 25 °C (7.22 ± 0.2 cm) and the lowest at 32 °C (6.56 ± 0.12). At 38 °C, 100% mortality was observed in the three species. Implications. The growth of roots and shoots of V. planifolia are affected by an increase in temperature above 32 °C, therefore, conservation and genetic improvement programs are needed that could start from the qualities that V. pompona and V. insignis showed. Conclusion. Temperature ranges between 25 and 35 °C have a differential effect on the promotion and growth of roots and shoots for the species V. planifolia, V. insignis and V. pompona.

Evidence implicating p38γ and p38δ (p38γ/p38δ) in inflammation are mainly based on experiments using Mapk12/Mapk13-deficient (p38γ/δKO) mice, which show low levels of TPL2, the kinase upstream of MKK1–ERK1/2 in myeloid cells. This could obscure p38γ/p38δ roles, since TPL2 is essential for regulating inflammation. Here, we generated a Mapk12D171A/D171A/Mapk13−/− (p38γ/δKIKO) mouse, expressing kinase-inactive p38γ and lacking p38δ. This mouse exhibited normal TPL2 levels, making it an excellent tool to elucidate specific p38γ/p38δ functions. p38γ/δKIKO mice showed a reduced inflammatory response and less susceptibility to lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced septic shock and Candida albicans infection than wild-type (WT) mice. Gene expression analyses in LPS-activated wild-type and p38γ/δKIKO macrophages revealed that p38γ/p38δ-regulated numerous genes implicated in innate immune response. Additionally, phospho-proteomic analyses and in vitro kinase assays showed that the transcription factor myocyte enhancer factor-2D (MEF2D) was phosphorylated at Ser444 via p38γ/p38δ. Mutation of MEF2D Ser444 to the non-phosphorylatable residue Ala increased its transcriptional activity and the expression of Nos2 and Il1b mRNA. These results suggest that p38γ/p38δ govern innate immune responses by regulating MEF2D phosphorylation and transcriptional activity.

En el presente estudio se determinaron las concentraciones de cadmio (Cd), plomo (Pb) y cobre (Cu) en el tejido muscular de camarón café Farfantepenaeus aztecus obtenidos de la parte del sur de la laguna de Tamiahua, Veracruz, durante el período de enero-agosto del 2004. Las concentraciones de los metales se midieron con un espectrofotómetro de absorción atómica utilizando horno de grafito. Los resultados obtenidos mostraron que las concentraciones de Cd y Pb en el músculo de los camarones estuvieron por debajo de los límites máximos permisibles para la comercialización de crustáceos según la Norma Oficial Mexicana (NOM-029-SSA1, 1993) y la Comisión Europea (EC, 2002). Las concentraciones de Cu fueron superiores a las de Pb y Cd; sin embargo, este elemento aún no está legislado y la concentración fue muy similar a las encontradas en otros crustáceos decápodos. Se encontraron diferencias significativas (p

El presente trabajo tiene por objetivo desarrollar una revisión sistemática exploratoria estructurada, basada en los resultados encontrados en torno a los términos “Balonmano” y “Discapacidad”. Para llevar a cabo la búsqueda de los documentos, se emplearon las siguientes palabras clave: “Handball” y “Disability”. Los documentos fueron buscados en las bases de datos Scopus y Web of Science, obteniendo un número final de 6 documentos válidos para llevar a cabo la revisión, siendo estos publicados previamente a septiembre de 2021. Con el objetivo de ajustar la búsqueda al objeto de estudio, se establecieron una serie de criterios de inclusión y exclusión. Como resultados concluyentes, se observa como los estudios más repetidos son Estudios Empíricos con Metodología Cualitativa en los cuales se llevan a cabo estudios del rendimiento de jugadores de Balonmano en Silla de Ruedas. En conclusión, los documentos sobre el balonmano para personas con discapacidad muestran que el Balonmano en Silla de Ruedas puede ser beneficioso en la mejora de la calidad de vida, la funcionalidad, la independencia y la adquisición de estilos de vida saludables.

Plant-based materials are an important source of bioactive compounds (BC) with interesting industrial applications. Therefore, adequate experimental strategies for maximizing their recovery yield are required. Among all procedures for extracting BC (maceration, Soxhlet, hydro-distillation, pulsed-electric field, enzyme, microwave, high hydrostatic pressure, and supercritical fluids), the ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) highlighted as an advanced, cost-efficient, eco-friendly, and sustainable alternative for recovering BC (polyphenols, flavonoids, anthocyanins, and carotenoids) from plant sources with higher yields. However, the UAE efficiency is influenced by several factors, including operational variables and extraction process (frequency, amplitude, ultrasonic power, pulse cycle, type of solvent, extraction time, solvent-to-solid ratio, pH, particle size, and temperature) that exert an impact on the molecular structures of targeted molecules, leading to variations in their biological properties. In this context, a diverse design of experiments (DOEs), including full or fractional factorial, Plackett–Burman, Box-Behnken, Central composite, Taguchi, Mixture, D-optimal, and Doehlert have been investigated alone and in combination to optimize the UAE of BC from plant-based materials, using the response surface methodology and mathematical models in a simple or multi-factorial/multi-response approach. The present review summarizes the advantages and limitations of the most common DOEs investigated to optimize the UAE of bioactive compounds from plant-based materials.

This article presents the results of the financial literacy assessment of young Mexican students between the ages of 17 and 24 enrolled in public and private institutions in five Mexican cities. This study’s objective was to approach the financial knowledge, behaviors, and attitudes of young Mexicans through focus groups and questionnaires to identify their perceptions of complex thinking and its use for financial products and services. The most relevant findings suggest that (a) most of the young participants in the study use banking services through their parents, (b) there are significant gender differences in financial knowledge and behaviors, (c) critical thinking significantly and positively correlates with financial behaviors and attitudes, and (d) the level of critical thinking predicts financial behavior. There is a need to develop women’s critical thinking to discern between the financial behavior they socially imitate and their capabilities to become more involved in financial issues, thus decreasing the gender gap.

Islands and mountaintops are often considered evolutionary dead ends. Using whole genomic data of 18 bird species and demographic models, the authors show that populations become isolated at high elevations, but disjunct montane populations maintain gene flow and thus the capacity for further colonisation.

Background Many animals rely on chemical cues for intraspecific communication. This is especially important in fossorial animals because visual restrictions of the underground environment limit the opportunities for visual communication. Previous experiments showed the ability of the amphisbaenian Trogonophis wiegmanni to discriminate between several categories of conspecifics based on chemical cues alone. However, in contrast with many other reptile species, T. wiegmanni does not have external secretory glands, but uses uncharacterized secretions from the cloaca in intraspecific chemosensory communication. Methods Using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), we analyzed the lipophilic compounds from feces and cloacal products freshly extracted from the cloaca of male and female T. wiegmanni. We identified and estimated relative proportions of the compounds found, and tested for intersexual and body-size related differences. Results We found a total of 103 compounds, being some steroids (mainly cholesterol and cholestanol), some alkanes and squalene the most abundant and frequent. Further, we found intersexual differences, with males, especially larger ones, having higher proportions of several alkanes between C13 and C24 and of squalene than females, which had higher proportions of several steroids and also of nonacosane and methylnonacosane than males. We compared these findings with secretions of other animals and discuss the potential role of these compounds and their variations in intraspecific communication of amphisbaenians.

To understand the spread of parasite and the persistence of infection in an ecological environment, it is essential to investigate their transmission possibilities. Vertical transmission of pathogens from mother to offspring is a fundamental opportunity, notwithstanding a relatively under-researched topic, especially in wildlife animals. We studied whether there is vertical transmission of a haemogregarinid blood parasite of Iberian green lizard (Lacerta schreiberi). To study infection of mothers, embryos and freshly hatched juveniles, their blood smears and molecular analyses of their tail tissue were used. Examining blood smears, seventy-one percent of females were found to be infected, but molecular analyses of all mothers showed positive results for the blood parasite. Based on molecular data the parasite was identified as a Karyolysus species. In contrast, no parasite was found in the blood smears of the freshly hatched juveniles, and we could not detect Karyolysus in the embryos or tail tissue of offspring using molecular methods either. Based on our results, vertical transmission of Karyolysus blood parasites is unlikely in the Iberian green lizard.

Resumen Introducción y objetivo. La ritidoplastia ha tenido una evolución constante desde su descripción, sin embargo, siempre ha estado dirigida a pacientes que la solicitan por envejecimiento natural, enfocándose a la región centrofacial. El objetivo de este trabajo es describir una técnica quirúrgica dirigida a pacientes sometidos a cirugía bariátrica que, tras perder masivamente peso, presentan secuelas severas no solo en cara sino también en cuello. Material y método. Técnica de ritidoplastia con disección cervical extendida (hasta borde supraclavicular) para liberar piel y obtener mayor tracción, que junto a plicatura lateral del platisma, corrigen el aspecto de cuello pesado característico de los pacientes con pérdida ponderal importante mediante supracorrección de ángulo mentocervical y surco cervicofacial. Evaluamos la eficacia por los resultados obtenidos y la seguridad por las complicaciones presentadas. Resultados. Recogemos 65 pacientes que cumplieron protocolo perioperatorio postbariátrico y presentaron secuelas severas que ameritaron el procedimiento. El 97.4% mujeres, edad promedio de 44.7 años; 98.7% sometido a bypass gástrico con pérdida promedio de 52.55 kg. En el 67.69% practicamos ritidoplastia como tercer tiempo quirúrgico (tras contorno inferior y superior). Tiempo quirúrgico promedio de 3.7 horas y complicaciones generales del 9.18%. En cuento a la satisfacción en la corrección de secuelas, el 84.6% reportó un resultado satisfactorio alto y el 12.3% moderado. Conclusiones. La técnica de ritidoplastia con disección extendida de cuello en pacientes postbariátricos resulta eficaz, segura y sobre todo, reproducible.

El golfo de California (GC) presenta diversos procesos oceanográficos. Tiene comunicación con el océano Pacífico mediante un flujo de salida de agua superficial (0–200 m) con valores relativamente bajos de carbono inorgánico disuelto (CID) y un flujo de entrada de agua (200–600 m) con valores altos de CID. Los datos sobre el sistema de carbono marino en el GC son escasos, y la mayoría proviene de la región de las islas grandes, en el centro del golfo. Se exploraron los posibles agentes forzantes que controlan la variabilidad del flujo de CO2 océano-atmósfera (fCO2) en 5 zonas costeras del GC. Se realizaron 6 cruceros oceanográficos en 5 regiones: frente al norte de Sinaloa en septiembre de 2016 (NAV2016) y marzo de 2017 (NAV2017), en la cuenca de Guaymas (centro del golfo) en septiembre de 2016 (GUA2016), en bahía Concepción (Baja California Sur) en julio de 2017 (BC2017), en Mulegé (Baja California Sur) en julio de 2017 (MUL2017) y frente a Mazatlán (golfo sur) en julio de 2017 (MAZ2017). Se midió la temperatura y la salinidad, se estimó el CID y la alcalinidad total y se calculó la presión parcial de CO2 superficial y el fCO2. Se utilizaron imágenes de satélite para generar compuestos de la anomalía del nivel del mar con flujo geostrófico, la temperatura superficial del mar y la concentración de clorofila en los días de muestreo. La temperatura más baja, el CID más alto y el fCO2 negativo se registraron en NAV2017. NAV2016, GUA2016 y BC2017 registraron las temperaturas más altas, y MUL2017 y MAZ2017, temperaturas intermedias. Los mayores contrastes de fCO2 ocurrieron en GUA2017 (0.56 ± 0.46 mmol C· m–2·d–1) y MAZ2017 (–2.26 ± 1.85 mmol C· m–2·d–1). En general, el fCO2 está determinado por las condiciones oceanográficas de cada zona de estudio.

Describimos y analizamos el modo en que los acontecimientos desatados por la pandemia de COVID-19 catalizaron procesos sociales agrarios de largo aliento, para lo cual interrogamos las relaciones entre lo emergente y lo estructural; lo hacemos a partir del caso de una cooperativa florícola platense (Buenos Aires, Argentina) y reconocemos los cambios en estructura social agraria, base social y culturas organizacionales. Concluimos que las consecuencias de la situación novedosa, como el cierre del mercado de comercialización, tuvieron diferentes respuestas debido a las mutaciones sociales pre-existentes. Sostenemos un abordaje cualitativo con centro en entrevistas en profundidad y análisis de fuentes documentales.

This data article includes a qualitative and quantitative description of the gelatinous macrozooplankton community of the North Sea during January-February 2021. Sampling was conducted during the 1st quarter International Bottom Trawl Survey (IBTS) on board the Danish R/V DANA (DTU Aqua Denmark) and the Swedish R/V Svea (SLU Sweden), as part of the ichthyoplankton investigation during night-time. A total of 147 stations were investigated in the western, central and eastern North Sea as well as the Skagerrak and Kattegat. Sampling was conducted with a 13 m long Midwater Ring Net (MIK net, Ø 2 m, mesh size 1.6 mm, cod end with smaller mesh size of 500 µm), equipped with a flow meter. The MIK net was deployed in double oblique hauls from the surface to c. 5 m above the sea floor [1,2]. Samples were visually analysed unpreserved on a light table and/or with a stereomicroscope or magnifying lamp within 2 hours after catch. A total of 13,510 individuals were counted/sized. Twelve gelatinous macrozooplankton species or genera were encountered, namely the hydrozoan Aequorea vitrina, Aglantha digitale, Clytia spp., Leuckartiara octona, Tima bairdii, Muggiaea atlantica; the scyphozoans Cyanea capillata and Cyanea lamarckii and the ctenophores Beroe spp., Bolinopsis infundibulum, Mnemiopsis leidyi, Pleurobrachia pileus. Abundance data are presented on a volume specific (m−3) and area specific (m−2) basis. Size data have been used to estimate wet weights based on published length-weight regressions (see Table 1). For the groups i) hydrozoan jellyfish, ii) scyphozoan jellyfish, iii) ctenophores, as well as iv) grouped gelatinous macrozooplankton, spatial weight specific distribution patterns are presented. This unpublished dataset contributes baseline information about the gelatinous macrozooplankton diversity and its specific distribution patterns in the extended North Sea area during winter (January-February) 2021. These data can be an important contribution to address global change impacts on marine systems, especially considering gelatinous macrozooplankton abundance changes in relation to anthropogenic stressors.

Probiotic supplementation in dairy cattle has achieved several beneficial effects (improved growth rate, immune response, and adequate ruminal microbiota). This study assessed the effects on the growth parameters and gut microbiota of newborn dairy calves supplemented with two Lactobacillus-based probiotics, individually (6BZ or 6BY) or their combination (6BZ + 6BY), administrated with the same concentration (1 × 109 CFU/kg weight) at three times, between days 5 and 19 after birth. The control group consisted of probiotic-unsupplemented calves. Growth parameters were recorded weekly until eight weeks and at the calves’ ages of three, four, and five months. Fecal microbiota was described by high-throughput sequencing and bioinformatics. Although no significant effects were observed regarding daily weight and height gain among probiotic-supplemented and non-supplemented calves, correlation analysis showed that growth rate was maintained until month 5 through probiotic supplementation, mainly when the two-strain probiotics were supplied. Modulation effects on microbiota were observed in probiotic-supplemented calves, improving the Bacteroidota: Firmicutes and the Proteobacteria ratios. Functional prediction by PICRUSt also showed an increment in several pathways when the two-strain probiotic was supplemented. Therefore, using the three-administration scheme, the two-strain probiotic improved the growth rate and gut microbiota profile in newborn dairy calves. However, positive effects could be reached by applying more administrations of the probiotic during the first 20 days of a calf’s life.

Chemosensory communication in lizards may be based on multiple compounds coming from multiple sources. Both secretions from external epidermal glands, and internal cloacal glands and feces are known to convey information (sex, familiarity, body size, etc.) for conspecifics. However, although some compounds in femoral gland secretions have been characterized and their function examined, there is very little information on potential semiochemicals in cloacal products and feces. More importantly, it is not well-known whether the compounds and information from multiple sources are redundant, complementary, or different. We analyzed the lipids in femoral gland secretions and feces of male Carpetan rock lizards (Iberolacerta cyreni) and examined which compounds might predict body size. We found many compounds in feces, mainly steroids, alkanes, and branched alkanes, while the main compounds in femoral secretions were steroids and fatty acids. The body size of males was related to the proportions of some alkanes, alkenes, and terpenoids in feces, while it is related to the proportions of some steroids and fatty acids in femoral secretions. There were also differences in the chemical profiles of feces of males and females, which may allow sex recognition. Therefore, femoral secretions and feces may both inform on males’ sex and body size, but the chemical bases of this information are different depending on the source.

Adaptive learning strategies applied to e-learning have become a relevant approach towards diversity and inclusion. They bring several benefits to learners in the role of digital platform users, related to the user experience, primarily in the learning process optimization. It aims to provide mediation, tailored content, and adequate channels for users' capabilities and learning styles. The OpenEdR4C is a digital open educational platform designed to expand complex reasoning skills in students and lifelong learners of higher education. The platform addresses five types of learning obstacles: sensory limitations, learning styles, sociodemographic and socioeconomic contexts, and certain kinds of neurodiversity. All these considerations require a dynamic and assertive user profiling strategy to provide compelling adaptive learning experiences. This paper presents a Systematic Literature Review of user profiling strategies published in the last five years in SCOPUS and Web of Science databases. The findings allowed us to identify successful and applicable strategies that the OpenEdR4C research and development teams might use to select and shape the suitable strategy for the platform in two levels: a) procedures that favor the user to self-declare their profile and preferences; and b) profiling based on the system's detection of patterns and behaviors shown by the users. The results and discussion presented are valuable insights for educators, developers in the context of open educational resources design, and decision-makers of HiEd institutions or training centers. There is a suitable strategy for every type of profiling necessity; here is a combination of many to be used and developed collectively.

In this work we study microwimmers, whether colloids or polymers, embedded in bulk or in confinement. We explicitly consider hydrodynamic interactions and simulate the swimmers via an implementation inspired by the squirmer model. Concerning the surrounding fluid, we employ a Dissipative Particle Dynamics scheme. Differently from the Lattice-Boltzmann technique, on the one side this approach allows us to properly deal not only with hydrodynamics but also with thermal fluctuations. On the other side, this approach enables us to study microwimmers with complex shapes, ranging from spherical colloids to polymers. To start with, we study a simple spherical colloid. We analyze the features of the velocity fields of the surrounding solvent, when the colloid is a pusher, a puller or a neutral swimmer either in bulk or confined in a cylindrical channel. Next, we characterise its dynamical behaviour by computing the mean square displacement and the long time diffusion when the active colloid is in bulk or in a channel (varying its radius) and analyze the orientation autocorrelation function in the latter case. While the three studied squirmer types are characterised by the same bulk diffusion, the cylindrical confinement considerably modulates the diffusion and the orientation autocorrelation function. Finally, we focus our attention on a more complex shape: an active polymer. We first characterise the structural features computing its radius of gyration when in bulk or in cylindrical confinement, and compare to known results obtained without hydrodynamics. Next, we characterise the dynamical behaviour of the active polymer by computing its mean square displacement and the long time diffusion. On the one hand, both diffusion and radius of gyration decrease due to the hydrodynamic interaction when the system is in bulk. On the other hand, the effect of confinement is to decrease the radius of gyration, disturbing the motion of the polymer and thus reducing its diffusion.

Esta investigación tuvo como objetivos comparar tanto las estrategias de lectura como el desempeño en una prueba de comprensión lectora inferencial de estudiantes universitarios, mujeres y hombres, de tres áreas académicas usando textos narrativos. Se realizaron dos experimentos que corresponden a investigaciones cuantitativas, estudios descriptivos de corte transversal, clasificando a los estudiantes por su área académica (en un experimento) y por su género (en el otro). Los participantes del primer experimento fueron 33 universitarios pertenecientes a las siguientes áreas académicas: Cs. Económico-Administrativas (11 estudiantes); Cs. Exactas e Ingenierías (11); Cs. Sociales y Humanidades (11); mientras que la muestra del segundo experimento se conformó por 18 estudiantes (9 mujeres y 9 hombres). Los instrumentos empleados fueron el Cuestionario de Estrategias Metacognitivas de Comprensión de Textos Narrativos y una prueba de comprensión lectora inferencial diseñada para esta investigación. Se encontró, con respecto a las estrategias de lectura, que los estudiantes pertenecientes al área de Cs. Exactas e Ingenierías emplean menos las estrategias de creatividad en comparación con los estudiantes de las áreas de Cs. Económico-Administrativas y Cs. Sociales y Humanidades y esta diferencia fue estadísticamente significativa empleando una prueba de ANOVA (f = 8.811, n = 33, p = .001). Sin embargo, no se encontraron diferencias estadísticamente significativas en relación al desempeño en la prueba. En trabajos futuros se podrían ampliar las muestras para comparar estos resultados.

Introducción: la revolución científico-técnica trajo consigo la incorporación masiva de las mujeres al trabajo, por esta y muchas otras causas aparecieron espacios como las guarderías para el cuidado de las niñas y niños. Objetivo: describir los elementos que caracterizan los cuidados en las guarderías infantiles. Métodos: se realizó una revisión narrativa de la literatura como herramienta metodológica que posibilitó caracterizar las publicaciones sobre determinados asuntos. Se seleccionaron 13 artículos, desde 2014 hasta 2019, que fueron publicados en: Brasil, Estados Unidos, Reino Unido, Canadá, Portugal y Colombia, y que aparecen en las bases de datos: MEDLINE, Academic Search Complete, MedicLatina, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, SciELO y BioMed Central. Los aspectos que sobresalieron sobre esta temática fueron: el sueño del niño que asiste a las guarderías, los ambientes saludables, la presencia de entero parasitosis, el desarrollo cognitivo - psicosocial y el estado nutricional.Conclusiones: se percibió la necesidad de realizar más investigaciones sobre el tema, dado que no hay suficientes evidencias sobre la relación entre la postura al dormir y la muerte súbita. No obstante, hay otros aspectos que ofrecen pautas a seguir como: el uso de normas y guías sobre el sueño del niño, las cuatro premisas del ambiente saludable en las guarderías, el cuidado institucional sobre el desarrollo cognitivo y psicosocial, la relación entre la presencia de niños en guarderías con el parasitismo infantil, y la responsabilidad de los cuidadores sobre la nutrición.

Abstract Background In polygynous mammals, signalling may play a decisive role in mating behavior, mediating the intensity of male fights and female mate choice. During the rutting season, male red deer may show a visible dark patch in their ventral fur. Recently, this patch has been suggested to act as a flexible sexual signal, due to its relationships with other variables such as age, body size, antler development, volatile compounds, or the competitive environment. The analysis of fur pigmentation at the ventral patch suggests that this might also visually indicate the male intrinsic predisposition to take part in mating competition. Results To assess the possible role of this trait as a communicative signal related to mate competition, we used red deer behavioral observations during the rut in Doñana National Park (Spain) to examine the link between the degree of expression of the dark ventral patch and the rutting activity (assessed from both intra-and-inter-sexual behaviors). Consistent with our predictions, we found in a field study that males with large dark patches showed a higher frequency of rutting behaviors (mainly roaring and flehmen), more interactions with females, and attained larger harem sizes. Conclusions The dark ventral patch was a better predictor of male behavior than antler tines or territory holding, thus standing as a short-term indicator of male willingness to invest in mating competition.

Functionalization of polysaccharide-based packaging incorporating inorganic nanoparticles for food preservation is an active research area. This review summarizes the use of polysaccharide-based materials functionalized with inorganic nanoparticles (TiO2, ZnO, Ag, SiO2, Al2O3, Fe2O3, Zr, MgO, halloysite, and montmorillonite) to develop hybrid packaging for fruit, vegetables, meat (lamb, minced, pork, and poultry), mushrooms, cheese, eggs, and Ginkgo biloba seeds preservation. Their effects on quality parameters and shelf life are also discussed. In general, treated fruit, vegetables, mushrooms, and G. biloba seeds markedly increased their shelf life without significant changes in their sensory attributes, associated with a slowdown effect in the ripening process (respiration rate) due to the excellent gas exchange and barrier properties that effectively prevented dehydration, weight loss, enzymatic browning, microbial infections by spoilage and foodborne pathogenic bacteria, and mildew apparition in comparison with uncoated or polysaccharide-coated samples. Similarly, hybrid packaging showed protective effects to preserve meat products, cheese, and eggs by preventing microbial infections and lipid peroxidation, extending the food product’s shelf life without changes in their sensory attributes. According to the evidence, polysaccharide-hybrid packaging can preserve the quality parameters of different food products. However, further studies are needed to guarantee the safe implementation of these organic–inorganic packaging materials in the food industry.

Abstract The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of continuous apical negative ultrasonic irrigation into simulated lateral canals and the apical third in straight and curved root canals. Two simulated lateral canals were created 2, 4 and 6 mm from the working length in 120 single-rooted teeth (6 canals/tooth, n = 360 straight, n = 360 curved). The teeth were randomly divided into 3 experimental groups: positive pressure irrigation (PPI) (n = 20); passive ultrasonic irrigation (PUI) (n = 20); continuous apical negative ultrasonic irrigation (CANUI) (n = 20). 20% Chinese ink was added to a 5% sodium hypochlorite solution and delivered into the root canals. The results showed a significantly higher (P

Sexual selection contributes to the diversity of chemical signals in various animal groups. Lizards are good model species to study how sexual selection shapes signal diversity, as they are a chemically oriented taxonomic group with different levels of social interactions. Many lizard species bear epidermal glands secreting a waxy mixture of lipids and proteins, which are used in intraspecific communication. Previous among-species comparative analyses failed to find a relationship between the strength of sexual selection with the composition of the lipid blend in lizards. Here, we extend the investigation to the proteinaceous fraction. By using a phylogenetically informed approach, we correlated the average electrophoretic profiles of the protein from the femoral glands of 36 lacertid lizard species with the level of sexual dimorphism in size and shape, which are proxies for the strength of sexual selection. We found that as sexual size dimorphism advances, five distinct molecular weight regions in the protein profile increased their expression. Using tandem mass spectrometry, we successfully identified one of these five proteins: a carbonic anhydrase—an enzyme catalyzing the reversible hydration of carbon dioxide. Our findings suggest that proteins may be the target of sexual selection, as an active semiochemicals or as a dynamic support to other molecules: sexual selection may act indirectly on semiochemicals (namely lipids) by modifying the matrix (namely proteins).

Microbial degradation of aromatic hydrocarbons is an emerging technology, and it is well recognized for its economic methods, efficiency, and safety; however, its exploration is still scarce and greater emphasis on cyanobacteria–bacterial mutualistic interactions is needed. We evaluated and characterized the phenanthrene biodegradation capacity of consortium dominated by Fischerella sp. under holoxenic conditions with aerobic heterotrophic bacteria and their molecular identification through 16S rRNA Illumina sequencing. Results indicated that our microbial consortium can degrade up to 92% of phenanthrene in five days. Bioinformatic analyses revealed that consortium was dominated by Fischerella sp., however different members of Nostocaceae and Weeksellaceae, as well as several other bacteria, such as Chryseobacterium, and Porphyrobacter, were found to be putatively involved in the biological degradation of phenanthrene. This work contributes to a better understanding of biodegradation of phenanthrene by cyanobacteria and identify the microbial diversity related.

Urbanization and anthropic influences can drastically modify a natural habitat and transform it into an easily recognizable “urban habitat”. Human activities can also induce less severe modifications of what apparently might still look like natural habitats. Therefore, these subtle alterations may be hidden but can still cause important negative effects on plant and animals. In contrast, some species seem able to take advantage of these anthropic alterations. Here, we examined the possible effects of the anthropogenic disturbance of an apparent natural habitat on the feeding ecology and body condition of Moorish geckos, Tarentola mauritanica. For this, we compared microhabitat structure, invertebrate availability, the diet composition (estimated from fecal contents), diet selection patterns and body condition of the two populations of geckos inhabiting two contiguous small islands. These islands have similar environmental characteristics, but highly contrasting differences in urbanization and anthropogenic influence. We found that, although the abundance of potential invertebrate prey was similar on both habitats, the diversity of invertebrate prey was lower in the altered habitat. As a consequence, although composition of the diet of geckos was similar on both islands, the diversity of prey and food niche breadth were lower in the altered habitat, and patterns of diet selection changed. However, these inter-habitat differences did not seem to affect the body size and body condition of geckos. We discuss how flexibility in feeding ecology may allow some species to cope with small anthropic disturbances of the habitat.

Bacteria have been used to increase crop yields. For their application on crops, bacteria are provided in inoculant formulations that are continuously changing, with liquid- and solid-based products. Bacteria for inoculants are mainly selected from natural isolates. In nature, microorganisms that favor plants exhibit various strategies to succeed and prevail in the rhizosphere, such as biological nitrogen fixation, phosphorus solubilization, and siderophore production. On the other hand, plants have strategies to maintain beneficial microorganisms, such as the exudation of chemoattractanst for specific microorganisms and signaling pathways that regulate plant–bacteria interactions. Transcriptomic approaches are helpful in attempting to elucidate plant–microorganism interactions. Here, we present a review of these issues.

Abstract Background The movement and spatial ecology of an animal depends on its morphological and functional adaptations to its environment. In fossorial animals, adaptations to the underground life help to face peculiar ecological challenges, very different from those of epigeal species, but may constrain their movement ability. Methods We made a long-term capture-recapture study of the strictly fossorial amphisbaenian reptile Trogonophis wiegmanni to analyze its long-term movement patterns. We also used passive integrated transponder (PIT) telemetry to detect and follow undisturbed individuals underground, obtaining data of their short-term movement patterns. Results Amphisbaenians showed a high site fidelity, moving short distances and over small areas, and spending some days without any noticeable movement, even under favorable conditions. We also found differences in movements between sexes and age classes. Conclusions This movement and spatial strategy can be related to the energetic constrains of underground burrowing, or to the low metabolic requirements of fossorial reptiles, as distances and areas covered were much smaller than for epigeal reptiles of similar size. Individual differences probably reflect differential reproductive and social requirements of males and females, and that younger individuals might show more floating behavior until they can settle in a territory. This study is a rare example describing the movement ecology of a fossorial species and may contribute to the general understanding of the factors that affect space use and movement decisions in animals.

In this article we show how to facilitate the development of mathematical skills using 3D surface visualization tools and virtual environments in an online, project-based learning context. The “Lumen” software is presented, which is an ad-hoc solution, designed and developed to visualize and combine mathematical surfaces in 3D, based on their associated equations. Several activities were designed with the use of Lumen, to measure the learning gain and problem-solving skills of the students, obtaining that a mean learning gain of 43% was observed on 242 students on the analysis of the pre- and post-tests for the first monitored activity, while a mean learning gain of 30% was observed on 210 students on the analysis of the second monitored activity. Based on these analyses, we make the point that although remote learning in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic poses difficult challenges for learners and professors, the use of ad-hoc technological applications is an important resource that supports the reinterpretation of the learning process, as it shifts the focus to the development of skills through active learning.

Introduction: Risk stratification of patients with COVID-19 can be fundamental to support clinical decision-making and optimize resources. The objective of our study is to identify among the routinely tested clinical and analytical parameters those that would allow us to determine patients with the highest risk of dying from COVID-19. Material and methods: We carried out a retrospective cohort multicentric study by consecutively, including hospitalized patients with COVID-19 admitted in any of the 11 hospitals in the healthcare network of HM Hospitals-Spain. We collected the clinical, demographic, analytical, and radiological data from the patient's medical records.To assess each of the biomarkers’ predictive impact and measure the statistical significance of the variables involved in the analysis, we applied a random forest with a permutation method. We used the similarity measure induced by a previously classification model and adjusted the k-groups clustering algorithm based on the energy distance to stratify patients into a high and low-risk group. Finally, we adjusted two optimal classification trees to have a schematic representation of the cut-off points. Results: We included 1246 patients (average age of 65.36 years, 62% males). During the study one hundred sixty-eight patients (13%) died. High values of age, D-Dimer, White Blood Cell, Na, CRP, and creatinine represent the factors that identify high-risk patients who would die. Conclusions: Age seems to be the primary predictor of mortality in patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection, while the impact of acute phase reactants and blood cellularity is also highly relevant. Resumen: Introducción: La estratificación del riesgo de los pacientes con COVID-19 puede ser fundamental para apoyar la toma de decisiones clínicas y optimizar los recursos. El objetivo de nuestro estudio es identificar, entre los parámetros clínicos y analíticos probados de forma rutinaria, aquellos que nos permitirían determinar a los pacientes con mayor riesgo de morir por COVID-19. Material y métodos: Se realizó un estudio multicéntrico de cohorte retrospectiva de forma consecutiva, incluyendo pacientes hospitalizados con COVID-19 ingresados en cualquiera de los 11 hospitales de la red sanitaria de HM Hospitales-España.Los datos clínicos, demográficos, analíticos y radiológicos se recopilaron de las historias clínicas de los pacientes.Para evaluar el impacto predictivo de cada uno de los biomarcadores y medir la significación estadística de las variables involucradas en el análisis, se aplicó un bosque aleatorio con un método de permutación. Utilizamos la medida de similitud inducida por un modelo de clasificación previo, y ajustamos el algoritmo de agrupación de grupos k en función de la distancia de energía para estratificar a los pacientes en un grupo de alto y bajo riesgo. Finalmente, ajustamos 2 árboles de clasificación óptimos para tener una representación esquemática de los puntos de corte. Resultados: Se incluyeron 1.246 pacientes (edad promedio de 65,36 años, 62% varones). Durante el estudio murieron 168 pacientes (13%). Los factores que identifican a los pacientes de alto riesgo de mortalidad son los valores elevados de edad, dímero D, glóbulos blancos, Na, PCR y creatinina. Conclusiones: La edad parece ser el principal predictor de mortalidad en pacientes con infección por SARS-CoV-2, mientras que el impacto de los reactantes de fase aguda y la celularidad sanguínea también es muy relevante.